Why I don't drink milk

"Pasteurized dairy is produced in the filthiest conditions imaginable. Blood, pus, and dangerous pathogens routinely end up in pasteurized milk."

CAFO animals are given large quantities of antibiotics, vaccines, vitamins, and other potentially toxic drugs to prevent the diseases that would normally overtake them as a result of living in such filthy, overcrowded conditions. Those chemicals get passed along to you in the milk you consume. In fact, using a highly sensitive test, scientists have detected as man as 20 painkillers, antibiotics and growth hormones in samples of cow's milk.

Dave's Killer Whole Wheat Bread Recipe

I recently made a trip to our favorite grocery store Winco and came across this bread that looked so delicious!  Today we made vegetarian sandwiches and it's exactly what I have been looking for in a bread for so many years.  A true whole wheat bread, but not bitter or tough.  Soft with lots of nutty texture and it's vegan!  Our whole family is completely hooked.  But with each loaf costing $4.00, I thought there has to be something out there in google world that could help me come up with something similar to make at home. Just recently I have been using some recipes from everdaydish.tv and have found most of them to be super tasty, and then today I found this Dave's Killer Bread Recipe.  Although I don't usually post recipes on my site until I have tested them in my own home, on my own family, I figured that this one was one that I definitely wanted to post, as I will be trying it out tomorrow, and I'll be sure to post an update of the outcome.  If this turns out to taste like the bread we just bought, then my searching for the best bread recipe is officially over.  To be continued......

For now here is the recipe, as posted on Everday Dish.

DAVE’S KILLER 100% WHOLE WHEAT BREAD


This is an awesome loaf of bread! If you’re looking for a whole grain, soft sandwich bread with a wonderful, sweet nutty flavor, this is your bread!

Note: This recipe is best made with a heavy-duty stand mixer.


Sponge
3 1/3 cups whole wheat flour (14 1/4 ounces/403 grams)
1/2 cup organic sugar
1 tbsp plus 1/2 tsp instant yeast
2 1/4 cups water
1 1/2 tbsp molasses
1 tbsp canola oil

Dough
3 1/3 cups whole wheat flour (14 1/4 ounces/403 grams)
1/4 cup vital wheat gluten (30 grams)
2 tsp salt

1. Sponge In bowl of stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, combine 3 1/3 cups whole wheat flour, sugar and yeast, mixing until combined. Add the water, molasses and oil to the flour, mixing until incorporated. Beat dough for 5 minutes on low. Cover bowl and set aside for one hour.

2. Dough: Add the remaining flour, gluten, salt to the sponge, beating until well mixed. If dough is too dry, you can add another tablespoon or two of water. Using the dough hook, if possible, beat the dough on medium high speed for 10 to 15 minutes, until a window pane develops (see video). You should have a nice, smooth dough.

3. Cut the dough into two equal pieces, cover with a slightly damp towel and set it aside to let it rest for 15 minutes. Roll dough into a smooth log, making sure to get the air out. Repeat with remaining dough. Place shaped dough into greased pans and let proof until it begins to peak over the pan. Preheat oven to 350°F while bread is rising.

4. Let rise in pans about 1 hour, or until the dough has risen enough to really fill up the pan, and has crested over the top. Bake loaves in preheated oven for 35 to 40 minutes, or until an instant-read thermometer reads 190°F.

Raised planter beds and Companion gardening ideas


We have just successfully finished 200 total sq. feet of raised planter beds and now we are in the process of adding our soil and vegetable starts.  I can't wait to see our garden grow, and start picking from our garden for some fresh healthy meals.

During the course of our planting I have been studying and learning more about companion gardening.  Here are a few things I have learned from various expert gardeners.

• When planting in raised garden beds make sure you have soakers, or ample amount of water going to your beds.  With raised beds they tend to dry out more easily and need more water than an inground type of bed. 
• You can start planting a little bit earlier in raised garden beds than in an inground garden bed because the raised garden beds aren't as susceptible to ground frost.
• Be prepared to sew in fish emulsion and compost tea every year for a good productive raised planter bed.
• use mulch in your planter beds.
• planter beds need to be atleast 12" deep with soil. 
• place weed barrier inside your planter bed to help with keeping weeds down.
• do not use pressure treated lumber in the construction of your planter beds, the chemicals will leach into the vegetables.
• Keep your beds 24"-36" in depth to make it easier to weed, and harvest.

HERBS, VEGETABLES AND COMPANION GARDENING

• Corn, Pole Beans and Squash - these can all be planted together in order to save room.  Plant the corn seeds first 8" apart in a circle.  When 6" tall plant pole beans on the outside of the circle of corn plants, after 1 week plant the squash seeds on the outside of the pole beans circle.  As the corn grows the beans will grow up the stalks of corn and the squash will give you a nice harvest below.
• Tomatoes- they like lots of water, make a 12 hour watering container by using a liter bottle.  cut off the bottom and punch 3 holes in the cap.  Place the bottle in the soil next to the tomato plant and fill the bottle with water.  This will water the plant for the next 12 hours, continue to keep the bottle filled. Tomatoes also love mulch, but plastic mulch is better as it keeps the soil warm.  work in mulch around the tomato plants to keep them healthy and happy.  Also, work in shovels of compost into the soil and liquid feed weekly with compost tea or liquid food (fish emulsion)
• Basil - Plant basil with tomatoes it will improve their growth as well as their flavor.
• Lettuce- do not plant lettuce next to cabbage, they do not grow well together.
• Onions- Chamomile and Savory plants improves their flavor.
• Strawberries - plant onions with strawberries they help fight strawberry disease.
• Parsley- increases the scent of roses when planted around the base of a rose bush.
• plant marigolds in your garden to help with bugs.

Gardening and Saving Seeds Part II

HOW TO HARVEST AND SAVE SEEDS

You purchased your seeds, you grew your plant and now you want to know what to do with the seeds.  

First of all as previous posted.  In order to harvest plantable seeds you need to use Non-hybrid seeds.

FYI:  When a plant is ready to flower it stops putting energy into the food part and instead puts it into the stalk, flower and seeds. 

ROOT VEGETABLES:

Root vegetables like carrots,  are generally biennials, this means that they take 2 years to make seed.

The first year it makes a root and stores food in it, then the next spring the root now sends up a long stalk, the tall stalk flowers and then where each flower is, seeds will be. Gather the seeds and let them dry out (see below)

FRUIT PLANTS:

Make their seed inside the fruit.  Melons, tomatoes, green peppers, eggplants etc.  First comes the flower and then the fruit.  For fruit plants you will let the seed bearing fruit get fully ripe, then scoop out the seeds and let them dry (see drying out seeds below)

TUBER PLANTS:

Like Potatoes are similar to root vegetables, they send up a stalk sending pretty above ground flowers but then finishes by making potatoes with eyes below ground.  

DRYING HOME GROWN SEEDS

Home grown seeds can sustain a shelf/storage life of 10-years (or more) if properly dried and stored.

1. Dry seeds to less than 8 percent moisture, by drying at 100 degrees F for six hours. This can be done by drying them in the sun (most natural way), with a food dehydrator, or by using a conventional oven. Never use a microwave oven.  Note:  do not use your food dehydrator if it does not have a temperature gauge, as most food dehydrators operate a a much higher temperature than 100 degrees. 

• Using The Sun: Spread the seed out in the sunlight, use a thermometer, try to obtain 100 degree temperature for 6 hours. Note: Because sunlight is harsh and can easily exceed this temperature, drying in the shade may be a better option if the outside air temperature is approx. 100 degrees.
• Food dehydrator: Keep dehydrator setting at 100 degrees F for six hours. Do not use your food dehydrator if it does not have a temperature gauge, as most food dehydrators operate a a much higher temperature than 100 degrees. 
• Conventional oven: Keep the oven door open several inches, and make sure the seed is not heated to more than 100 degrees for 6 hours. I would also suggest using an oven thermometer to check for temperature accuracy. 

Once you have dried your seed at 100 degrees for 6 hours.  There are 2 simple methods to see if your seeds have been dried to 8 percent or less moisture.

1. Long seeds will snap cleanly in half when bent.
2. Wheat, beans, peas, corn and other large seeds should shatter and turn to powder when hit with the head of a hammer.

STORING YOUR HOME GROWN SEEDS

Once seeds are completely dry, place them in airtight moisture-proof storage containers. Protect them from dampness, dampness will kill the seed. Store seeds in a sealed can, glass jar, or plastic container sealed with freezer tape.  Do not use plastic bags.  Note:  A moisture-proof container is one that stores seed safely while submerged in water.

Mark the containers with the seed names and date, then store them in a cool dark place. If possible, a refrigerator or freezer is an excellent environment for storing survival garden seeds.

Storing your seeds properly will achieve the longest life possible.
Remember these important factors when storing survival garden seeds:

1. Constant cool to cold temperature (40 degrees or below)
2. Dark place - never in sunlight
3. Keep in moisture-proof containers
4. The drier the seeds are - the longer they will store

Seeds from many plants can remain VIABLE for years if properly stored at cool - to frozen - temperatures. However, it is best to use most of your home-harvested seed the following growing season. A good emergency preparedness practice is NOT planting all of your seed... save some of each harvested seed variety so that you always have extra emergency garden seed on hand to plant and replace with the next seasons harvest.

Some more resources for harvesting seeds:

• Seed Sowing and Saving: Step-by-Step techniques for Collecting and Growing More Than 100 Vegetables, Flowers and Herbs  By:  Carole B. Turner 
• Seed to Seed: Saving our Vegetable Heritage by Suzanne Ashworth 
• The New Seed Starter’s Handbook by Nancy Bubell 
• The Organic Gardener’s Handbook of Natural Insect and Disease Control by Barbara Ellis and Fern Bradley.

Gardening and Saving seeds

HYBRID VS. NON-HYBRID SEED PLANTING

 Hybrid seeds are generally what you find at most garden departments. They are produced by artificially cross pollinating plants.  They were originally produced/bred to improve on the existing crop of plants, to yield better uniformity, quantity, color, unique flavor, improved resistance to plant disease and insects etc. Today these are the predominant seeds that you'll find when you visit a garden store or department. Hybrid seeds are famous for their vigor and productivity but they also often don't breed true and can throw back to ancestors having really bad characteristics or sometimes they don't breed at all. 

Non-hybrid seeds on the other hand are a little harder to find.  (please see list of links below)  They are also known as Heirloom Seeds and Open Pollinated seeds.  They are not usually as big or colorful as the hybrid seeds, but provide more nutritional value and save money by providing the ability to save seed from these plants and replant them producing more and more plants.


HYBRID SEED FACTS             

1. Easier to come by 
2. More variety 
3. Package is less money
4. seeds cannot be saved
5. new seed must be every planting
6. requires some chemical substances and fertilizers to maintain healthy plants.  
7. Large amounts of water and irrigation in order to grow these plants.
8. Not produced for nutritional content
9. Produced for more company revenue

NON-HYBRID SEED FACTS

1. A little harder to come by in garden departments
2. Seeds can be harvested, and replanted, providing a unlimited amount of planting.
3. requires knowledge and a little time to harvest and store seeds from plant.
4. better nutritional content more wholesome.
5. Sustainable gardening- able to save seeds and replant
6. Food storage security - if food supplies are challenged, non-hybrid seeds provide security in the ability to plant a sustainable garden.
7. Crop Diversity- planting non-hybrid seeds protects the these crops from becoming extinct.
8. Investment- Seeds are an excellent investment to money, stocks or even gold.  When times are tough food is needed.
9. lower cost of living - in difficult times one of the best ways to reduce your cost of living is growing your own food, and saving your seeds form personal harvest is an immediate way to save money on your next year's produce. 

So are you convinced?  If so, here are some links that sell non-hybrid seeds, you can also buy non-hybrid seeds at some health food stores, Wild Oats, Whole Foods and some specialty garden stores are starting to carry a wide range of Non-Hybrid/Heirloom seeds.

http://www.organicaseed.com
http://www.emergencyseedbank.com
http://www.eldoradoheirloomseeds.com/
www.emergencyessentials.com (these non-hybrids are on sale right now)

http://www.heirloomseeds.com/
www.fedcoseeds.com
www.superseeds.com
www.rareseeds.com
www.ebay.com  (search for heirloom or non-hybrid seeds)
www.seedsaversexchange.com

There are so many  more places that I could not list.  Just google search words (heirloom seeds, food storage seeds, non-hybrid seeds, or Open-Pollinated seeds).

SUPER EASY - no bake Granola bars

A great sweet healthy treat, my kids LOVE these!  They are also perfect to add to your food storage ingredients.

2 1/2 c. Rice krispies
2 c. quick cooking oats
6 T. Flax meal, hemp seed or other ground seeds or wheat germ (for added protein)
1/2 c. dried fruit (cherries, blueberries, strawberries, cranberries, raisins, whatever you like)
1/2 c. chopped nuts (almonds, walnuts, peanuts, pistachios, whatever you like)
1/2 c. sweetener, liquid (brown rice syrup, honey, maple syrup, molasses) I like brown rice syrup it gives it a caramel taste and texture.
4 T. sucanate or dark brown sugar
2/3 c. nut butter (almond, cashew, soynut, peanut or whatever you like) I like almond butter it has a deeper flavor and taste then peanut butter.
2 t. vanilla extract
1 t. ground cinnamon

mix the rice krispies, quick oats, flaxseed meal (or other), dried fruit and nuts in a large bowl.

Over med high heat bring liquid sweetener of choice and brown sugar or sucanat to a boil, stir constantly.  Remove from heat, and stir in nut butter and vanilla until blended.

Pour warm nut butter mixture over cereal mixture and stir until coated.  Press mixture firmly into a 9x13 pan that has been lightly oiled.  Let cool in pan.  cut into 24 bars, wrap in saran wrap and store in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.


There are other variations you can make up your own favorites:

GERMAN CHOCOLATE BAR: Add chocolate chips or carob chips, with coconut flakes

CHERRY CHOCOLATE BAR: Add Chocolate chips or carob chips with dried cherries.

PEANUT BUTTER BAR: Add roasted peanuts with peanut butter and use honey as sweetener.

CHERRY ALMOND: Add dried cherries, almond butter and chopped almonds and use almond extract in place of vanilla, if you like.

APPLE PIE: Add chopped dried apples and rice syrup or honey with walnuts or pecans and cinnamon.

PECAN PIE: Add pecans, almond butter, rice syrup, dates and cinnamon.

TROPICAL BAR: add pineapple and mangos, with brazil nuts or macadamia nuts and Almond butter or macadamia butter. use almond extract.

Coconut Oil instead of Shortening or butter!

COCONUT OIL

After searching for an alternative way to store oil/shortening and butter, I came across Coconut oil. I have been using Coconut oil in my bath salts and bath products for a few years now and I love the smell and feel it gives my skin.  Coconut Oil has a lot of benefits for the skin and hair. It protects it from the environment against damage, promotes healing and gives a more youthful healthy appearance. It is also wonderful for your body as well. When taken internally it can help lower cholesterol, helps with weight loss, digestion and immunity. There is a large amount of research done on coconut oil and it's benefits for certain diseases as well.

But the biggest reason I have decided to add Coconut Oil to my families diet as well as our food storage is because of how long it stores. Just as Shortening stores indefinitely on your food storage shelves, so does Coconut oil. You can use it in place of all recipes calling for shortening, butter or oil and it cooks up perfectly and the best part is your not feeding your body the hydrogenated oils and fats that are contained in shortening and butter.

We have been using coconut oil in our cooking for over a year now and I love how my cookies come out so perfectly soft.  We also use it regularly for cooking eggs, it adds such a wonderful flavor.  I have purchased coconut oil from the health food store (it's a little pricey), and ordered it online from a few resources but I have to say the coconut oil from Tropical Traditions is definitely the best (and I don't get paid to say this), their coconut oil is does not have the distinct flavor of coconut like so many other brands that can sometimes over power your food.  It melts perfectly and I use it in place of butter, oils and shortening in all of my recipes.  My breads and rolls always come out soft and fluffy and I feel so much better not giving my family hydrogenated oils.

A new year

It's a new year and I've decided I need to get back to blogging. I never knew I had so many people following my food storage cooking blog but while I was away, I received many emails and comments from those of you who felt some how that this site has been helpful. So to those of you who wrote and it has taken me some time to write back, I apologize. Like many it has been one crazy year for our family. I enjoy sharing information that I find to help build a healthy, variety but especially great tasting food storage, that our family can enjoy (not just store). We have 3 very picky eaters all under the age of 3, a semi-picky 8 year old and 2 healthy minded adults, and it has become a challenge in our home to build our food storage around items that we will actually eat. Everything that is posted on this site are our family loved recipes and items we actually use and have in our food storage. I am looking forward to posting more, I have lots more information, ideas and fun things to share and I am hopeful that those of you who use this blog might share information with me as well! Thanks for the comments and emails. I appreciate all of the information, ideas and encouragement.

Emergency Essentials Food Storage Calculator

Emergency Essential has a new food storage calculate located on their site. For those of you who are just building your food storage, have a good supply, or just don't know where to start this is a great resource. One of the particular features I really liked was being able to choose particular nutrients needed (example: protein) if you click on protein it will show you all the items they have with high amounts of protein.

Just thought I'd share. Hope you enjoy it as much as I have.

PALM OIL AND RED PALM OIL

PALM OIL - The nutrition-packed vegetable oil

A member of the vegetable oil family, palm fruit oil is cholesterol free and it supplies our bodies with some basic daily energy needs.

Why palm oil is better for health.

• Palm fruit oil, naturally semi-solid at room temperature, does not require hydrogenation. It is a good replacement for partially hydrogenated oils (AKA CRISCO) for many reasons.
• Palm fruit oil is trans fat free.
• Palm fruit oil provides the same "hard or solid" fat that is required for pastries, cookies, crackers and other items that require long shelf stability and a particular mouth feel or texture.
• Palm fruit oil is odorless and tasteless, perfect for consumers and manufacturers alike looking for a healthy oil for cooking and baking needs.
• Palm fruit oil is rich in antioxidants.
• Animal studies have found that tocotrienols may have the abilty to reverse blockage of the carotid artery and platelet aggregration thereby reducing the risk of stroke, arteriosclerosis and other heart disease problems.
• Animal studies have found that tocotrienols may exhibit activity against tumor promotion.
• Cellular and animal studies have found that tocotrienols may inhibit certain types of cancer.
• Palm fruit oil increases 'good' HDL, compared to other saturated oils, suach as coconut oil.to promote a healthy cardiovascular health.>
  
  Studies compared olive oil and palm olein, the liquid fraction of palm oil, and found the same beneficial effects on cholesterol levels. Palm oil increases the good HDL cholesterol levels while having a neutral to beneficial effect on the bad LDL cholesterol levels, thus promoting cardiovascular health. Furthermore, palm oil is a nutrient dense oil containing many potent antioxidants including beta-carotene, a precursor of vitamin A and tocotreinols, a potent form of vitamin E.
  
  It has been the oil of choice overseas for generations, used as a cooking oil, in baking, for frying foods, to make margarine and as a component in many processed foods. So why did American companies replace palm oil with unhealthy trans fats back in the 1960s?
  
  "They didn't know any better," says Day. "People were told that saturated fats like palm oil were bad for them so they started looking for alternatives. Well turns out, the alternative was even worse."
  
  Now realizing its many benefits, several major food manufacturers have started using palm oil in their products again. You'll find it in Nabisco's Golden Oreo cookies, Kellogg's Cracklin' Oat Bran cereal, Pepperidge Farm Oatmeal Cranberry cookies, Voortman Vanilla Wafers, Cadbury Finger Dark Cookies and many products sold at "health food" stores.
  
  Palm oil has a high smoke point so it is great for stir-fries, sautaying, grilling, and frying. Palm oil is tasteless and odorless so it may also be used for baking, used in place of crisco or margarine.
  

  
  

  RED PALM OIL

  the red color of red palm oil beautifully enhances any salad dressing recipe.

  
  

  Red palm oil is known to be healthier than refined (discolored) palm oil. This is a result of several mitigating substances found in the red palm oil. These compounds are:

  • betacarotenes (present in higher amounts than in regular palm oil),
  • co-enzyme Q10 (ubiquinone),
  • squalene,
  • vitamin A,
  • vitamin E.

  Palm oil is applied to wounds, just like iodine tincture, to aid the healing process. This is not just done for its oily qualities; like coconut oil, irrefined palm oil is supposed to have additional antimicrobial effects.

  
  

  The shelf life for refined Palm oil is 2+ years.

  The shelf life for red palm oil is 1 year.

  
  

  Palm oil is a great alternative to cooking oil, lard, margarine, and shortening. It's shelf life is long and it's a healthier alternative, it's also less expensive then the other alternatives.

  
  

  more information: http://www.americanpalmoil.com/ and http://www.tropicaltraditions.com

  
  

HOME REMEDIES

HOME REMEDIES
Apple Cider Vinegar
• Apple cider vinegar may be a staple ingredient in most kitchens, but did you know that this is a great natural remedy for heartburn? Rather than taking your typical dose of antacids, you can down a spoonful or two of apple cider vinegar.What this does is to break down the excess foods that you have consumed and restore the normal balance in your stomach.
• Treat abrasions. Vinegar is a natural antiseptic, so use diluted solution of half vinegar and half water to clean minor cuts and abrasions. It can also reduce the itch from poison ivy or insect bites.
• Soothe sunburn. Cover sunburns with a towel or rag soaked in water and vinegar. If possible, sleep this way. Re-soak and repeat. Put vinegar in a spray bottle with water and mist directly on the sunburn. To relieve swelling and fluid from too much sun, mix a paste of baking soda and apple cider vinegar and apply.
• Alleviate stiff muscles. Reduce the stress of over-worked muscles by mixing a half vinegar and half warm water solution. Soak a towel in it, then wring out the towel and cover the sore muscles. It is often helpful to cover the towel with plastic wrap and leave on overnight. Reduce bruising by following the same method, but instead use cold water and secure the compress in place with a tape or sports wrap.
• Treat diarrhea. Cider vinegar helps with digestion and works as an antiseptic through the intestines and the digestive track. One tsp. of cider vinegar in a glass of water before meals will lessen the intensity of the diarrhea.
• Combat hay fever . Hay fever symptoms include watery eyes, sneezing and runny nose (and other extra body fluids). Use honey and vinegar. Take 1 tbsp. of honey and a dose of cider vinegar 3 times a day during hay fever season. To add extra relief, use local honey and begin the treatment early.
• Relieve a scratchy throat. To soothe a sore throat, try gargling with apple cider vinegar and water. Make a 50/50 mixture, and spit it out immediately after gargling, repeating the treatment ever hour. Be sure to rinse your mouth or the acidity will damage your teeth.
Cayenne Pepper-
The tincture is excellent for first-aid kits. It is an herb to keep on hand.
• Although cayenne pepper puts the sizzle and spice in most foods, it can be actually soothing when used as a natural remedy for cuts.Aside from stopping the bleeding immediately, sprinkling cayenne pepper on the affected area will actually ease the pain.
• Regulates the flow of blood so it influences the heart immediately – the frequency of the pulse is not increased but is given more power.
• Normalizes blood pressure; used for both high and low blood pressure.
• Taken internally for an injury to stop internal or external bleeding. The powder can be poured directly on an external wound to stop bleeding, fight infection and promote healing. It may feel warm but it will never cause a blister.
• Used to treat shock or to keep someone from going into shock.
• Used for a gargle for sore throats and pyorrhea.
• Cayenne can also be used in conjunction with CPR in the event of a heart attack. For this application, mix a teaspoon of cayenne in a small amount of water and pour it down the patient's throat. This is a sure way to revive the person and is much more successful than CPR alone. People with heart and blood pressure conditions should consider incorporating appropriate amounts of cayenne pepper into their dietary regimens.
• Cayenne is the remedy of choice for gangrene, frostbite and any condition which calls for increased blood flow and better circulation. Cayenne can even be placed in boots to help keep feet warm.
Flaxseed
• Women who are experiencing discomfort due to undergoing the menopausal stage will be glad to know that there is a natural remedy for it: flaxseed. Hot flashes are a particularly common problem for menopausal women and flaxseed can effectively prevent this. All you need to do is mix about 1.4 ounces of ground flaxseed into the foods that you are eating and it will relieve menopausal symptoms as effectively as prescription medications.
Turmeric
• If you are experiencing arthritis or joint injuries, the Indian spice turmeric will work wonders for you. All you need to do is include a couple of tablespoons of turmeric or yellow curries while cooking meat or any curry dish – and you will generally feel better afterward.
Mustard
• The mustard plaster (powder & cold water) is a time-honored cure for the congested chest. Mustard is a rubefacient, which causes the skin to feel warm, and opens the lungs to make breathing easier. The plaster should, however, never be applied directly to the skin as it may cause painful blistering. A layer of lint (or thin) material should be put between the mustard paste and the skin and the poultice should be removed as soon as it becomes uncomfortable. The same plaster has also been used to relieve arthritis, rheumatism, sciatica, paralysis of limbs and other muscular pains.

Mustard Plasters
For children and babies, can be left on overnight without burning. However, any age can use it.
1. 1 Tbsp. Ginger, 1 Tbsp. Dry mustard, 1 Tbsp. Turpentine, 1 Tbsp. Salt, 3 Tbsp. Lard or shortening. Mix together. Spread in a soft cloth and apply to chest.
2. 1 Tbsp. Dry mustard, 4 Tbsp. Flour, 1 egg. Mix with water and leave until skin is pink.
3. 10 level Tbsp. Flour, 1 level Tbsp. Dry mustard. Mix with water. Leave on for about 15 minutes or until skin is pink.
Note: For 2 and 3 put Vaseline on chest before applying pack.
Clove
• Cloves are a perfect breath freshener because it kills the bacteria that causes odor and leaves the mouth clean tasting and smelling.
• Its main component, Eugenol, is a powerful multifaceted phytochemical that anesthetizes, kills intestinal parasites, bacteria and fungi, fights free radical oxidation, and thins the blood.
• Cloves relieve pain, increase blood circulation, aid digestion, and are antiseptic and antimicrobial.
• Clove has been used to treat toothaches, earaches, colds, flu, backaches, bronchitis, dysentery, muscle aches, nausea and vomiting. Apply directly to a toothache or cold sore.

Baking Soda
• Dissolve 1/2 cup of baking soda in tepid water to create a bath that will cool your baby’s prickly heat. It's not just for baby either. Anyone can benefit from a soaking if heat has created a rash.
• Stop the sting from insect bites by applying a paste of Arm & Hammer and water on the affected area. You'll reduce the swelling, itching and stinging from insect bites.
• Ease the pain of sunburn and windburn by dissolving 1/2 cup of baking soda in a lukewarm bath. Soak for 15 minutes or more to soothe your skin.
• Mix 1/2 tsp. of baking soda with a glass of warm water, swish, spit and rinse to cool a burning mouth. Your mouth will thank you.
• Relieve heartburn, acid indigestion, sour stomach and upset stomach. Add 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda to 1/2 glass of water and drink every 2 hours, making sure it's fully dissolved in the water before you drink.
• 1 part baking soda mixed with two parts of ground oatmeal to make a face scrub. Mix both ingredients with water to make a paste, then gently rub on face, avoiding eyes. Leave on for a few minutes then remove with cool water and a wash cloth. Your face will feel noticeably soft and smooth!
• Is your skin suffering from a case of Poison Ivy or Sumac? Or, do the kids have Measles or Chicken Pox? Add a half cup of baking soda to a bath tub full of warm water. Soak the entire body. The baking soda will help relieve the itching and irritation. It will also help to soften skin!
• Use as toothpaste to whiten your teeth. Simply dip your toothbrush into some soda everytime you brush! Not only will it help whiten your teeth, but it will help to clean your breath as well!
Baking soda can also be used to safely clean dentures, partials, and other dental apparatus.
• You can use baking soda just like a dry cleanser to clean sinks, bath tubs, and toilets. It works especially well on chrome fixtures! It rinses off easily and you don't have to worry about scratches either. Warm about 2 cups of water with 1 cup of baking soda in the microwave and then use a warm rag and wipe the inside of the microwave, this makes a great cleanser/cleaner for stuck on grease and grime.
• Do you love dried beans, but not the gas and bloating they cause? Sprinkle a teaspoon of baking soda in the water when you soak beans. Oila! No more digestion problems!
Epsom Salt
• Eliminates Toxins from the Body Add two cups of Epsom salt to the water in a bath tub. Soak for 10 minutes at least weekly once. It relaxes your body and muscles, eliminates toxins from the body and reduces the swellings of sprains.
• Exfoliates SkinSprinkle small amount of essential oil to Epsom salt and clean your skin. Or you can rub the Epsom salt directly on the skin to make it smooth and silky. Then rinse thoroughly.
• Athlete's FootSoaking in Epsom salt helps you relieve from athlete's foot.
• As a First Aid Mix a thick paste of Epsom salt with hot water and apply to get soothing comfort.
• Hair Conditioner Warm the mixture of equal amounts of conditioner and Epsom salt for 15 seconds. Apply this mixture through your hair from scalp to end; leave it for 15 minutes. Rinse with warm water; you can observe the natural glow in your hair.
• Removes Foot Odor Mix half-cup of Epsom salt in warm water and keep your feet for 10 minutes. This soothes achy feet, removes bad odor and softens the rough skin.
• As a Fertilizer for your HouseplantsSprinkle Epsom salt weekly once to nourish your houseplants, flowers and vegetables.
• Relieves from ConstipationDissolve 2 to 3 teaspoons of Epsom salt into a cup of water and drink twice to get relief from constipation.
• Dislodge BlackheadsTake half a cup of boiling water. Add a teaspoon of Epsom salt and 3 drops iodine. Apply this mixture to the black heads with a cotton ball three times.
• As a Hand WashMix Epsom salt with baby oil and keep by the sink to clean your hands effectively.
• Treats Toenail FungusSoak your affected toes in hot water mixed with a palm full of Epsom salt three times a day.

Medicinal Herbs to grow in your garden

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11 herbs you can plant in your herb garden and use for first aid

YARROW

Yarrow is an important herb to have in storage in your home. The comment was made that it would be one of the only things that work against the coming plagues, which would be flu type diseases. Yarrow is unsurpassed for flu and fevers.

• Used abundantly at the beginning of a cold it will usually break it up within 24 hours.
• Especially good for fevers-produces perspiration. Opens pores and has relaxing action on skin.
• For fever must be drunk warm or take capsules with warm water or peppermint tea. Yarrow tea is bitter to the taste, but effective.
• Good for all childhood diseases. A yarrow ointment or tea is used for sores, including chicken pox and smallpox, also old wounds.
• Helping to glandular system. Regulates and tones liver.
• Relieves kidney and bladder problems, infections and mucus discharge from bladder.
• Equalizes circulation.
• Used in fomentations for external hemorrhoids or inject one ounce of tea in a retention enema for internal hemorrhoids.
• Corrects diarrhea in infants.
• Healing and soothing to all mucous membranes.
• Benefits respiratory problems, including bleeding from lungs.
• Combined with sage, it is good for profuse or irregular menstruation.

Catnip

Catnip is highly prized in the treatment of children’s ailments.

Catnip is another aromatic which many parents have found beneficial for their children. It also stimulates the body, settles the stomach and soothes the nerves. One famous herbal team is the combination of Catnip with Fennel, which has long been used as a remedy for colic, gas, and indigestion in children.

• A common ditch bank weed loved by cats.
• Used effectively for fevers and to alleviate the symptoms of childhood diseases.
• Good for stomach gas or cramps, aids in digestion.
• Used for babies and young children for colic, stomach pains, teething and fevers. Helps clean out mucus in the body.
• Used in enemas to bring down fever, eliminate mucus, relax the colon and ease colon cramping. Catnip enemas also help relieve the aches of flu.
• A very effective enema combination is catnip and garlic together in the same bag. Catnip's usefulness in an enema has been explained, with the powers of garlic (fights infection, eliminates mucus, kills bacteria, viruses and parasites, and improves peristaltic action) the two are a powerful enema combination.

Peppermint

• One of the oldest and most popular remedies for simple colic and minor bloat in children and adults.
• Good for all digestive problems, helps stomach pain caused by indigestion and is soothing to the stomach.
• Expels stomach and colon gas.
• Excellent for fevers, flu, diarrhea, ulcers, and colitis.
• Strengthens nerves and heart muscles.
• Cleanses and tones the body.
• Can be used instead of aspirin for headaches.
• Can take the place of coffee for a stimulant.
• Promotes relaxation.
• is one of the few oils that are safe to take internally or apply to the skin undiluted.
• A few sprigs of peppermint makes an effective deterrent to ants. As the list above indicates, a small bottle of peppermint oil can be thought of as a "medicine cabinet in your pocket," and can be used as an emergency remedy for a myriad of conditions. Never leave home without it.

Red Raspberry leaf

Red Raspberry is used as a basic herbal foundation for all female organs and problems. It is in many female combinations.

• Strengthens wall of uterus and entire female reproductive system.
• Decreases profuse menstrual flow.
• Good during all months of pregnancy. Alleviates morning sickness and nausea. Has been used as a preventative for hemorrhaging during labor. Assists labor, makes delivery easier and relieves after pains. Tones and regulates before, during and after childbirth.
• Increases and enriches milk for lactation, can be combined with marshmallow tea.
• Raspberry tea is mild and pleasant to taste. It is good for stomachaches and bowel problems in children. For diarrhea in babies.
• Soothing to stomach and bowels and cankerous conditions of mucous membranes in the alimentary canal.
• High mineral and vitamin source.

Garlic

Garlic is called nature’s antibiotic. It contains allicin, a natural antibiotic. One milligram of allicin has a potency of 15 standard units of penicillin. It is effective against toxic bacteria, viruses, and fungus. Garlic contains more germanium, an anti-cancer agent, than any other herb. In Russia, garlic was found to retard tumor growth in humans.

• Active against staphylococcus and E. coli bacteria.
• Good to take for all diseases (anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, anti-viral, anti-cancer) including contagious diseases.
• Protects against infection.
• Has detoxifying effects on all the body systems.
• Improves, tones, and strengthens entire physical condition. Has rejuvenating effect on all cells.
• Builds endurance and energy.
• Strengthens body defenses against allergens.
• Has soft oils that help to emulsify plaque and loosen it from arterial walls.
• Contains selenium which helps arteriosclerosis.
• Strengthens blood vessels.
• Equalizes blood pressure, high or low.
• Has a sugar regulating factor.
• Taken internally one of the most effective herbs for killing and expelling parasites.
• Used in enemas. Besides being used as a straight garlic enema, it is excellent to combine with Catnip for a Catnip/Garlic enema. The catnip pulls mucus, and soothes the cramping of the colon, etc. The garlic kills the germs and parasites, improves peristaltic action, and also pulls mucus.

Aloe

· helps sooth skin injured by burns, irritations, cuts and insect bites.

· helps moisturize and soften the skin.

· helps speed the healing of skin wounds, burns and other injuries.

· helps (when taken internally)with constipation, diarrhea and other intestinal problems.

· speeds and improve general healing when taken internally.

· relieves itching and swelling of irritated skin.

· helps kill fungus and bacteria.

· improves the effectiveness of sun screen products.

Chamomile

Another excellent activator for children is Chamomile. Chamomile helps to settle the stomach and calm the nerves. Chamomile is probably one of the very best nervine herbs for children. It aids digestion, expels gas from the bowel, soothes the nerves and reduces inflammation.

Lavender

Lavender has a wonderfully relaxing effect on the mind and body and makes a good remedy for anxiety, nervousness, and physical symptoms caused by stress such as tension headaches, migraine, palpitations, and insomnia. It also has a stimulating edge to it, acting as a tonic to the nervous system and restoring vitality to people suffering from nervous exhaustion. The relaxing effect of lavender can be felt in the digestive tract, where is soothes spasms and colic related to tension and relieves distension, flatulence, nausea, and indigestion, and enhances the appetite. As a tea, oil inhalation, or vapor rub, lavender is effective for colds, coughs, asthma, bronchitis, pneumonia, flu, tonsillitis, and laryngitis. A warm compress will relieve chest congestion, and help with bruises and insect bites. In a tea or tincture, it can also be taken for stomach and bowel infections causing vomiting or diarrhea. Hot lavender tea causes sweating and reduces fevers. It helps to detoxify the body by increasing elimination of toxins via the skin, and with its mild diuretic action, through the urine.

Echinacea

Echinacea is often put in combinations with other herbs. It is an excellent infection fighter and is used as a powerful natural antibiotic.

• Especially good in glandular infections and problems. A good cleanser for glands and the lymphatic system.
• One of the best herbs for helping enlargements and weakness of the prostrate gland.
• Used in ear aches, strep throat, lymph glands.
• Effective blood purifier. Used for blood poisoning and poisonous spider and snake bites.
• Used in combination with goldenseal, Yarrow and Cayenne to form a powerhouse infection fighting formula. Also combined with myrrh in place of goldenseal for people with hypoglycemia.
• Works well with chickweed to help weight loss.

Arnica

Arnica can be used externally in a muscle rub, cream or diluted tincture to speed the healing of wounds, bruises, sprains and swellings, and increases resistance to infection. It is wonderful for calming children who may have fallen over, bumped their heads, or hurt themselves. Applied over any unbroken surface it will ease pain, relieve rheumatic joints and stiff muscles, and painful, swollen feet. Not to be taken internally or used on broken skin.

Yellow Dandelion

The dandelion we are talking about really is that little yellow weed in your lawn. All its parts are used – the leaves, flower and roots. It can be used fresh in green drinks and salads.

Dandelion is commonly thought to be one of the “bitter herbs” recommended in the Bible. Its young leaves have been gathered and eaten as a pot herb or as an addition to salads for centuries.

It has been used to aid digestion, relieve liver distress, and to treat all manner of ills from dropsy, jaundice, and kidney stones to warts and psoriasis. Culpeper states, “It is of an opening and cleansing quality, and therefore, very effectual for the obstructions of the liver, glass, and spleen. It opens the passages of the urine, both in young and old, powerfully cleanses, and doth afterwards heal them.”

Dandelion is an extremely effective diuretic, but without the common side effect of mineral depletion prevalent with diuretic drugs.

Dandelion is rich in many nutrients, particularly in bio-available minerals.

It enriches breast milk in nursing mothers, benefiting both mother and child.

The plant helps control blood pressure by reducing excess fluids in the body as well as by the presence of mannitol, a substance commonly prescribed in Europe for hypertension.

Aromatherapy & herb anti-plague

1 pint		unpasteurized apple cider vinegar
5 drops		rosemary oil
5 drops		oregano oil
5 drops		lavender oil
5 drops		sage oil
5 drops		peppermint oil
5 drops		clove oil
4 drops		lemon oil
3 drops		black pepper oil
1 drop		capsicum oil
1 head		garlic finely diced
3 oz		ginger finely sliced
4 oz		echinacea tincture

Mix all ingredients together and store in a dark jar.

Dr. Christopher's Anti-Plague Formula

Ingredients:
32 oz. Vegetable Glycerine
8 oz. Comfrey Root
4 oz. Wormwoood
4 oz. Lobelia Leaf
4 oz. Marshmallow Root
4 oz. Oak Bark
4 oz. Black Walnut Hull
4 oz. Skullcap Leaf
4 oz. Uva Ursi
32 oz. Raw Apple Cider Vinegar
2½ cups Raw Honey
1 lb. Fresh Garlic
2 gallons Distilled Water

How to Make Anti-Plague Remedy

Prepare each herb individually by making a concentrate. To make herb concentrates, place each herb in a separate container. Add enough distilled water to cover. Soak for 4 hours. Add more distilled water until the total added equals 16
ounces of water per 4 ounces of herb.

Simmer each herb separately at a very low heat (under 130℉)in a covered pan (not aluminum or teflon — use stainless steel or glass) for 30 minutes.

Strain the liquid into a clean double boiler. Uncovered, steam down to ¼ the original volume. This makes a 7x power concentrate.

Juice the Garlic- Put enough garlic through a juicer or press to make 8 ounces
of juice (approximately 1 pound of fresh garlic).

Combine Prepared Herb Concentrates with 8 oz. Garlic Juice, 32 oz. Vegetable Glycerine, 32 oz. Raw Apple Cider Vinegar, 2 ½ cups Raw Honey

Storage- place in dark glass bottles, and store in a cool, dark place. or store in quart jars inside a box or dark place.

• This recipe makes approximately 1 gallon of prepared syrup.

Usage:
As a preventive measure, take 1 teaspoon 3 times a day.
If infected, take 1 tablespoon every ½ hour.

Here is the direct link to Dr. Christopher's recipe.

Canning Turkey Hamburger

Note: 1 # of Ground turkey = 1 pint

1. Cook 1# of ground turkey in a skillet, cook until no longer pink.
2. place cooked meat in 1 pint jar, fill with warm water and allow 1/2" head space. Remove air bubbles with a rubber spatula.
   
3. Wipe rim with a dry cloth and make sure there is no residue on rim. Place lid on jar and screw down band until hand tight.
   
4. In a pressure canner add 1" of water to pan. Place jars in pressure cooker, seal up lid and place on stove on high heat.
   Note: I have an All-American pressure cooker, but each pressure canner is different, make sure you refer to your owner's manual for your particular canner.
5. Steam will start escaping from the vent pipe, allow to steam out for 7 min. Then place pressure regulator weight on vent pipe. Our altitude is required to do 15# pressure, so the regulator is set to 15. When Regulator begins to jitter and and sputter. This is when you start your processing/cooking time. Set timer for 1 hour 15 min. and reduce heat so that the regulator only jiggles about 1-4 times a minute. When processing is done. turn off burner and let sit for about 15 min. or until gauge reads zero. Then open lid and remove jars to counter. Lids should be concaved if processed properly and should not pop when pressed down on the lid.
   

Ambrosia Conserve

5 cups of chopped fresh pineapple, cored and peeled



2 oranges, grate rind and juiced

1 c. chopped maraschino cherries
1/2 c. slivered almonds
1 c. unsweetened coconut shredded
5 c. granulated sugar



Place pineapple, orange juice and orange zest in a stainless steel sauce pan on high. Bring to a boil stirring continuously so it doesn't burn. Reduce heat and boil gently for 10 min. stir occassionally. Cook until the pineapple has softened. Then add Sugar, increase to med-high and bring to another boil, stirring to dissolve sugar. Boil hard and stir frequently until mixture thickens about 15 min. Then stir in coconut, cherries and almonds. Return to a boil, stirring frequently until thickened about 5 min. Remove from heat and test gel (take a spoon and put SOME of the jam into a medium sized bowl, then tilt the bowl. If the jam runs down, boil it some more. If it stays in the same spot, (or moves very little) it is done.)

Ladle hot conserve into hot jars, leaving 1/4 inch headspace. Wipe rim before placing on lid, then screw down band until finger tight.

Place jars in canner, ensuring they are completely covered with water. Bring to a boil and then process for 15 min. Wait 5 min. before removing jars from bath and then let cool and store.

Finished product..YUM!!