When you get a cut, what do you do?  Most people head to their medicine cabinet or the store for something to heal the cut. Before going there, consider a more natural remedy that could be around your house or as close as the neighborhood health store.

Herbal remedies have been used for thousands of years to treat everything from cuts to digestive ailments.  Before there were proper manufactured medicines like we have today, there was the earth and the bounty it provided.

The earth is still here and the herbal remedies are just as useful today. Herbal remedies have fewer side effects than some more modern products, and work for people with tons of allergies to medications.

Here are four common types of herbal remedies:

1. Tea tree oil – this essential oil has been called a quintessential treatment. Tea tree oil stimulates the immune system by attacking bacteria, viruses and fungi that invade the body through all sorts of means.  It can be applied to a cut to encourage healing and scar tissue formation. As soon as the wound has begun to heal, apply the oil directly to the area instead of using a bandage. The wound can heal naturally and get air at the same time.

2. Calendula – this is the name of a plant that is similar to marigolds. The leaves and the petals are used to heal wounds.   Calendula cream is sold over the counter as an anti-itch and anti-inflammatory for poison ivy.  Cuts can get dry as they heal and cause itching. Inflammation makes a cut itchy and red also. A salve can be applied to healing cuts to moisturize the skin and kill any bacteria still lingering. Don’t apply calendula to infected or weeping wounds.

3. Aloe Vera – the aloe plant has long been a staple for healing. It is great for burns but also for cuts. As a cut heals it can also hurt. Taking a piece of the succulent aloe plant and rubbing it on a cut encourages circulation and healing. The juice of the plant also reduces inflammation and pain.

4. Myrrh – this plant is mentioned in the Bible. In ancient times it was used as a healing agent. The sap from the tree is beneficial as an antibacterial agent. Applying myrrh to a cut helps to speed healing in the body.

When you get a cut, consider how you will treat it to get the best and fastest healing possible. Herbal remedies allow for healing in a natural way without extra ingredients and chemicals.

If you do a lot of outdoor activity such as gardening, keep handy a good gardeners hand cream, preferably one that is all natural and that has powerful, natural healing ingredients such as immortelle/everlasting (helichrysum italicum), which has cell-regenerating properties and has been used for centuries for healing wounds, bruises and cuts.

Although different types are common in adults who reach that ‘certain age’ it also affects children still in diapers and young people in the prime of their lives.  Over 100 different types  range from the relatively mild cases of tendonitis or bursitis to crippling systemic forms such as rheumatoid or Lupus.

Types of arthritis can include disease processes that you wouldn’t normally associate with arthritis such as Lupus and gout.  In Lupus the immune system attacks healthy tissue and causes inflammation, including joints.

Gout results from too much uric acid in the body.  This is a natural waste product that is flushed from the kidneys.  The body either makes too much, or doesn’t excrete enough.  The crystals deposit in the joints and cause irritation and pain.

Most people think that osteoarthritis is the only type of arthritis that affects people.  The real common denominator in this disease is inflammation and pain in the joints and musculoskeletal system.   There are medications that help to decrease the distress, decrease the advancement and help patients to be more comfortable and functional in their lives.

For this reason it is very important to get an accurate diagnosis from your physician. If the diagnosis is not correct then the medications and prescribed treatments will not make a difference in the quality of the patient’s life.  For instance, certain exercises will help with some diseases and make others worse.

There are over 100 joints connecting 206 bones in the human body.  Each of the major joints have cartilage that makes the connection from joint to joint smooth.  Cartilage gives the joints a smooth surface over which to travel. The loss of cartilage in osteoarthritis is what causes the sometimes intense pain during movement.

The cavity where these bones meet is protected by synovium.  This is the fluid that gives cushion to the joints and allows them to move smoothly.  In some people, the synovial fluid is thickened, inflamed and increases in amount.  This inflamed fluid will damage the joints.

There are many different types of arthritis but many exhibit several of the same symptoms.  Don’t let the same symptoms fool you into thinking the treatment is also the same.  You can improve your comfort level  by  getting the right diagnosis and the right treatment for the type of problem you have.

For this reason it is very important to get an accurate diagnosis from your physician. If the diagnosis is not correct then the medications and prescribed treatments will not make a difference in the quality of the patient’s life.  For instance, certain exercises will help with some diseases and make others worse.

There are many pain relief creams on the market that help ease the pain of arthritis. Choose one that contains only natural ingredients such as Pain-Eez, the premier all-natural pain cream formulated with powerful herbals and essential oils (devil’s claw, arnica, MSM to bring temporary relief from chronic pain conditions such as Arthritis, Fibromyalgia, Carpal Tunnel, back pain and a host of other conditions.

The pressure will generally be more intense and more focused with this type of massage as the therapist works to release chronic muscle tension or knots. Also known as adhesions, these knots can cause chronic tension and pain in the neck, low back and shoulders.

During the massage the  therapist will use elbows, fingers and sometimes penetrating tools such as ceramics, glass or wooden props in order to reach deep muscles.  Some therapists use very firm pressure for several minutes to help the muscle achieve release before moving onto the next area of the body.

Keep in mind that undoing chronic knots and tension built up over a lifetime is achieved more successfully with an integrated program that includes exercise, relaxation techniques,  improved posture and a regular massage treatments.

At the end of any session you should be advised to drink lots of water to help the body express and excrete the toxins released during the massage.

Deep tissue massage can help to decrease your pain, improve circulation and improve your overall health. When done consistently, deep tissue massage also helps your body stay in better alignment and in better shape decreasing the risk of injury.

It also helps to use a good pain relief cream such as Pain-Eez, the premier all-natural pain cream formulated with powerful herbals and essential oils (devil’s claw, arnica, MSM to bring temporary relief from chronic pain conditions such as Arthritis, Fibromyalgia, Carpal Tunnel, back pain and a host of other conditions.

Whenever possible cut down on red meat and restrict fatty animal protein in your diet to prevent worsening vein symptoms and slowing down your digestion.
Making these simple changes to your diet will go a long way in relieving constipation and thus reduce the strain and pressure that contributes to tired, aching legs and swollen leg veins.  Leg vein circulation will improve and your leg energy will increase.  Before long, you will notice that your legs have regained their former vitality and strength.

Varicose vein creams and lotions are becoming more popular for treating varicose and spider veins. They contain herbs and essential oils noted for their healing, circulation-enhancing, vaso-constricting and pain reducing properties.

Most of us would rather feel and look good than bad. To feel good we need to bring into balance the two most important hormones that relate to a woman’s body, estrogen and progesterone.

Many doctors prescribe synthetic progesterone, called progestin to balance these hormones. Some side effects of synthetic progestin include: increased the risk of breast cancer, cancer of the uterus and increased risk of osteoporosis.

You can balance your hormones naturally without risk. Since the creams are far less potent than human hormones and have a slower effect, the body reacts to the natural  cream formula as if it were a natural human progesterone. You will feel good, look better and look forward to having a satisfying sex life – and all without risks or side effects.

If you don’t want your breasts to increase in size, simply apply the cream to the tummy and inside the upper arms on the first day and the next day to the tummy and inside of the thighs.  If the cream is not applied to breasts directly they will not become bigger.

Apply the cream morning and evening in complete confidence without risk to health.

Unlike natural breast/hormonal products in  pill and capsule form, there is no indigestion and the cream works faster because it bypasses the digestive system.

Hot baths do warrant a word of caution before we continue here.  Check the temperature carefully. While we say “hot bath” the water would feel better if it was warm to the touch but not scalding. It is hard to relax when you are sustaining third-degree burns.

Also, if you suffer from any condition where hot baths are contraindicated, don’t attempt them. This goes for pregnancy as well as if you have circulatory issues. You don’t want to faint and fall as you get out of the tub, because this can cause serious injury.

With that said, let’s return to the benefits of a hot bath. It is not just the water alone but what you add to it that can help with such conditions as:

* Anxiety and stress
* Colds and sinus issues
* Sore, aching muscles
* Dry, itchy skin

The steam coming off of the water acts like a humidifier. If you close your bathroom door and let the room fill up with steam as you run the bath, you are on your way to a soothing experience.

For stress and anxiety there are certain herbs that have been used for centuries as calming agents. Take lavender, for example. It is known to soothe the mind and in turn, relieve stress in the body.  Using lavender oils and bath salts in your water will help your stress to ebb away. Your problems won’t disappear but you will be better able to handle them.

Using eucalyptus will help with that pesky cold you feel coming on. Again, the humidifier effect of the water and the eucalyptus can help to open nasal passages for freer breathing.

Your body can build up toxins from simple daily life. Soaking in a bath with Epsom salts can help to leech these toxins out of your system. Hot water helps to dilate blood vessels for better blood flow and lowers blood pressure. Muscles benefit from this because they are able to relax which aids in recovery from soreness.

Using bath oils helps to moisturize your skin. In the winter, this is especially important as skin tends to be on the dry side.  If you have dry skin, you won’t need to soak as long in the water, but soothing oils will nourish your skin as you bathe.

Ready to soak your cares away? A hot bath may be just what the doctor ordered.  Besides the candles and soft music, try a few bath salts, scented oils and herbs to heal whatever might ail you.

Special Treats for After your Bath:

Vanilla Mint Foot Cream contains arnica herbal oil to help heal cracked heals, calluses, minor sores and help relieve burning and itching sensations. For help on using foot creams, see tips on how to massage your feet.

Since I began using Invisi-vein with Calendula extract and essential oils, I have noticed the varicose and spider veins in my legs are a lot less noticeable and are flattening out. My legs have more energy and stamina. This product was highlighted in the November, 2006 issue of Canadian Living Magazine by writer Julie Hunter. If you have tired, achy legs check this out!

Most of us have learned what to do when it comes to exercising.  The problem is where and when to get the job done.  With a busy lifestyle, making time for exercise is a challenge.

Weight bearing exercises aren’t just for bodybuilders.  As you age, especially once you hit the age of forty, you begin to lose muscle mass.  For women especially, bone loss becomes a problem.  When the body is in need of calcium it can rob it from your bones.  Building muscle not only increases their mass but your strength.

Here are five easy toning exercises that can be done anywhere and whenever you have time.  At home, at the office, or on vacation, you can do these easy yet extremely effective exercises.

1. The Bridge Butt Lift – Sounds like a plastic surgery technique but it is an easy way to tone your buttocks.  Lay down with feet flat on the floor, legs shoulder width apart.  Place your hands, palm side down, on either side of your body.  Pushing with your feet, squeeze your gluteal muscles and lift your butt off the floor.  Hold the position for a count of five to ten and release down to the floor.

2. Squats – Squats work the butt, the hamstring muscles and the quadriceps.  If you aren’t sure of proper form, you can use a chair.  Stand with feet shoulder width apart and feet firmly planted.  Push your butt back as if you were preparing to sit in a chair.  Keep your abs tight and your upper body straight.  Once you reach chair level stop and hold the position for a count of two to five and release.  At the lowest point, place all of your weight on your heels for balance and maximum toning.

3. Reverse Lunges – Lunges work the quadriceps muscles.  They can be hard for people with knee problems.  A reverse lunge still tones the right muscle groups but with less pressure on the knee.  Stand with feet together and arms at your sides.  Take one leg and move it backwards until you are in lunge position: front leg bent at a 90 degree angle and back leg extended until you are on the ball of your foot.  From this position lower yourself down until the back knee almost touches the floor.  Hold for a count of two and return to starting position.

4. Pushups – This is a classic toning exercise that works all areas of the arms plus the chest muscles.  If you aren’t comfortable or strong enough to perform a pushup on your toes, lower your body to your knees.  Be sure your arms are tucked into the body and your back straight as you lower and lift your body.

5. Crunches – Abdominal muscles can be worked every day to build strength and muscle tone.  Lying on the floor in sit up position, lace your fingers behind your head.  Squeezing your abdominal muscles, lift your upper body until your lower back is about to come off the floor.  Hold for two to five counts and return to starting position.

These five exercise moves can be done whenever you have time.  The best thing about exercise is that its effects are cumulative.  Even five or ten minutes at a time will work to your advantage.

This article was written by Francine, owner of Venus Naturals. She has been working with a master herbalist and an aromatherapist since 1996 to develop natural, effective solutions to weight loss and toning using all-natural products.

Use these 3 simple secrets to firm, perky breasts naturally

Massage
For firm, beautiful breasts massage is definitely a must. Massaging increases blood flow to the area. Blood carries oxygen to nourish the cells and expel toxins from the body that can break down breast tissue. Enhanced circulation in the breasts improves breast tone and elasticity. Youthful perkiness and firmness is restored.

Exercise
Breast exercises help to firm up the supporting pectoral muscles and ligaments behind the breasts. These special muscles and ligaments hold up the breasts and give them their shapeliness. If they are flabby and weak your breasts will look droopy and even flat.

By firming up these muscles the breast tissues also firm up and become stronger and firmer. Breast exercises are a natural and safe way for a better and firmer bustline. Push ups and lifting weights are excellent for firming breasts.

Breast Firming Products

Some breast firming products increase breast size and firmness of breasts. The natural plant estrogens in these products can stimulate the growth of breast tissue but only breast enhancement creams can also lift and firm breasts.
In order to get the best firming action use only breast cream or lotion. Pills and capsules have no firming or lifting effect to my knowlege and experience with them.

Try these top three secrets for firmer breasts and I guarantee in only a few short weeks you will have firmer breasts.

This article was written by Francine, owner of Venus Naturals. She has been working with a master herbalist and an aromatherapist since 1996 to develop natural, effective solutions to increase breast size and firmness without resorting to surgery.

She shares her secrets at: http://www.venusnaturals.com/natural-breast-enlargement.html which specializes in 100% natural and safe breast enhancement cream without any added chemicals or parabens.

It’s true that regular exercise will nourish the skin all over the body with fresh blood, oxygen, and nutrients. As well, the increased blood flow and circulation that come with working out will help to draw toxins out of the body and improve the condition of all your vital organs, including your skin.

A lot of people think that sweat can trigger acne flare ups. The fact is, sweating is great for any type of congested skin, as it helps promote the flushing of impurities from the epidermal layer and will clean out the pores. As well, vigorous exercise can actually correct the hormonal imbalances that can trigger blemishes, therefore reducing the likelihood of outbreaks.

Any physical routine that you like to do, such as yoga, running, biking, spinning, pilates, boxing, and such, will help lessen the stress that you encounter on a daily basis and help to prevent stress related acne. Keep in mind that exercise may not be a miracle cure for everything, as you may still experience breakouts from time to time although your acne will certainly be less severe and last for a much shorter length of time.

Exercise is also great for other skin conditions that may or may not have to do with the presence of acne. Your skin losing its elasticity or becoming thin and less resilient is something that we all encounter. This is a common problem for may of us as we get older.

As we all get older, we start to lose collagen, which will makes us look tired. As many of us don’t know, physical activity can actually help to promote the growth of collagen in your skin cells, which will plump up your facial skin and make you look younger and more vibrant.

If you are worried about wrinkles, you should consider relaxation that comes after you exercise. This has the effect of making your muscles, facial muscles included, soften up. What this means, is that your lines will appear less pronounced, helping to contribute to the youthful look that you are trying to achieve.

Regular exercise can help you achieve better muscle tone, a slimmer waist, softer skin, fewer blemishes, and an overall younger, more fresher look. If you’ve wanted to add or change to your complexion, don’t hesitate to exercise. It will help you feel more alive as well as improve your body.

Protect your skin from aging with Venus Cellagen cream. It  contains plant-derived collagen and essential oils to delay cellular changes associated with aging skin. It is a very original cell regeneration and wrinkle cream because it uses powerful ingredients such as immortelle/everlasting essential oil. Use it daily for a blushing, youthful complexion.

To prevent stress related acne,  an effective all-natural and safe solution for treatment and prevention of  flare-ups is the  Venus Natural Acne Treatment System.

There are no quick fixes to getting into shape. But, you can begin an exercise program at any age and reap the rewards. For seniors, implementing an exercise program may help to reverse the effects of time on your joints, muscles and bones. For women especially, osteoporosis is a threat as you age. So, what types of exercises can you perform? Don’t worry – you won’t be doing any PT training any time soon. You can strive for that but not right away. When choosing your exercise, use these tips.

* Start slowly. This point can’t be stressed enough. There is nothing to be gained by hitting the ground hard. You are more likely to keep with regular exercise when you find it enjoyable and painless. The best thing about exercise is that it is cumulative. Ten minutes here and there add up in the end.

* Consider aerobic fitness. Aerobic exercise increases heart and lung health. Maybe now you are winded walking up the stairs. After a few weeks, this may change. The benefits of aerobic exercises stretch beyond the gym or walking path into all areas of your life.

* Increase your flexibility with slow movements. Popular exercises for that are yoga, Pilates and Tai Chi. Through slow controlled movements, the body is stretched and relaxed. You won’t sweat buckets but then, an exercise doesn’t have to leave you panting to be effective. Increasing flexibility may combat stiffness in the joints and increase your range of motion for easier movement.

* Don’t forget about strength training. Strength training means challenging the muscles with weights. It can even be your own body weight. Barbells are not the only weight instrument you can use. There are dumbbells, weighted bars, weighted balls, bands and exercise machines to name a few. It is important to hit all muscle groups for overall improvement in strength. Working the back and abdominals (the core) helps with balance and posture.

* The best exercises are sometimes the simplest. You don’t have to be a member of the gym to perform any of the above suggestions. Exercise DVDs are available. You can pop one in whenever it is convenient for you. Walking is a great overall exercise that can be performed in your neighborhood, at a park or even the local mall.

All of us will age. Learn to age gracefully and protect your skin from accelerated aging. All ages can benefit from all natural Venus Pycnogenol cream containing Pure Pycnogenol Extract.

Use it for repairing damaged skin (sun and scar damage). Use it to help stop the development of wrinkles. Use it to help lighten dark spots that are the result of hyper-pigmentation and use it for daily skin care as an excellent base for foundation and make-up.