HOW TO GROW FOOD CROPS IN CONTAINERS, P.

78

CRITTER- M OT H E R E A R T H
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22 TIPS INSPIRED
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 INSIDE THIS ISSUE
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PHOTO BY MEGAN AXELSSON
Happy is
Healthy
DID YOU KNOW THAT optimism cuts your risk
of coronary heart disease by half? In research
started back in the 1970s, scientists are explor-
ing why happiness seems to lead to better
health—and why toxic stress can lead to faster
pulse rates, higher blood pressure and increased
stress hormones. In a study of more than 6,000
adults aged 25 to 74 years conducted over 20
years and published in 2007, Harvard School
of Public Health researcher Laura Kubzansky
found that emotional vitality—defined as a
sense of enthusiasm, hopefulness, engagement
with life and the ability to face stress with emo-
tional balance—reduced risk of heart disease,
even when taking into account other behaviors
such as smoking abstinence and regular exer-
cise. In other papers, Kubzansky has shown that
children who have a more positive outlook at
age 7 report better general health and fewer ill-
nesses 30 years later.
It seems safe to say that increasing our hap-
piness is a surefire way to reduce our risk of
disease. And fortunately, we know a lot about
what makes us truly happy. Research has found
that—seemingly contrary to popular assump-
tions—what makes us happy isn’t money (in
2 motherearthliving.com
Three Things
I Love This Issue
and of itself) or increased possessions. What
makes us profoundly happy is also conveniently
a pretty good list of what makes us good people:
spending meaningful time with others; develop-
ing strong relationships and social ties; enjoy-
ing a close connection with the natural world; Home décor projects
learning new skills; and participating in activi- inspired by nature
ties that benefit others. (“Decorate with Nature,”
page 21)
I know from personal experience the value of
some of these suggestions. I’m generally a happy
person, but like anyone, I get the blues once in
a while. For example, I dislike winter and some-
times experience mild seasonal depression dur-
ing the shortest days of the year. But during the
winter when our dog was a puppy and required
multiple daily walks, I discovered that forcing
Down-to-earth advice to
myself to spend time outdoors actually did a quell sugar cravings
lot to improve my mood, despite my distaste (“Why We Have Sugar
for the chilly temperatures. Another example: Cravings,” page 52)
After having a baby a couple of years ago, I was
feeling cooped-up and missing my old life as a
carefree, childless woman. So I joined a book
club with some of my coworkers and friends,
which compelled me to read (a lifelong passion
that I’d been neglecting), as well as to get out of
the house and socialize.
While doing these things—spending more A profile of two artists and
entrepreneurs making
time in nature, dedicating time to the pursuit of organic housewares out of
our individual passions, nurturing friendships their Oregon homestead
outside our households—can sometimes feel (“Well Crafted,” page 64)
“selfish” when we have busy lives with partners
and kids who depend on us, jobs to do, chores
and errands to complete, they’re actually vital to
maintaining a positive outlook on life. And sci- SHARE
ence tells us that maintaining a positive outlook YOUR HOME!
may just be the key to staying healthy. So next Are you leading the
time you feel a little depressed, consider volun- Mother Earth Living
teering, learning a new language or instrument, lifestyle? If you or some-
getting outside in nature or spending time talk- one you know would be
ing with a friend. It’s likely to make you happier perfect in the pages of
and healthier. Mother Earth Living, let
us know! Find out more
Jessica Kellner, Editor-in-Chief about nominating your-
self or someone else at
motherearthliving.com/
nominate-my-home or
contact me at jkellner@
motherearthliving.com or
facebook.com/jessica
kellnermotherearthliving.
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 WorldMags.net

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Circle #27; see card pg 72
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MAY/JUNE 2014 CONTENTS
58
Features
W H Y W E H AV E S U G A R C R AV I N G S
We’re evolutionarily predisposed to like
sweets, but if your enjoyment has crossed
the line to craving, it might be time to work
to create a healthier diet and lifestyle.
S I M P L E H O M E , LO V E LY L I F E
Use our 16 tips to create a beautiful, healthy
home that supports your family’s lifestyle goals,
all for little or no money.
WELL CRAFTED
A pair of artists, entrepreneurs and home-
steaders lives a handcrafted life in rural
Oregon, where they run a successful organic
housewares company.
READERS, DIGEST
Use these simple, natural tips to keep your
digestive system running smoothly and the
irritating symptoms of intestinal upset at bay.
WorldMags.net
“Be grateful for the home you have,
52
knowing that at this moment,
all you have is all you need.”
SARAH BAN BREATHNACH, PAGE 58
58
ON THE COVER
22 Tips Inspired by Nature 1 5 , 2 1 , 5 8
64 Best Foods for a Better Mood 4 6
Growing, Cooking, Healing with Basil 8 4
How to Grow Food Crops in Containers 7 8
Critter-Proof Your Garden 8 2
Homemade Condiment Recipes 4 8
Coconut Oil 101 4 1
73 Natural Digestive Health 7 3
Cover photo by Thomas Gibson, photo styling by Ginevra Holtkamp
Cover props: Ash Wood Garden Spade by Anthropologie,
anthropologie.com; ARS Signature Scissors in Green by GrowTech,
growtech.com; Haws Indoor Watering Can in Sage Green by
Gardeners Trading Post, gardenerstradingpost.com
Mother Earth Living May/June 2014 5
 MAY/JUNE 2014 CONTENTS
WorldMags.net

25
Home
DECOR AT E W IT H NAT U R E 21
Use these ideas as inspiration to
bring the beauty of the outdoors
into your home décor.
25 S T R AT E G I E S F O R
E L I M I N AT I N G P L A S T I C 25
The negative health effects of
plastics are well-known. Use these
tips to reduce plastics in your life.
S A LT O F T H E E A R T H 29
Discover 11 ways to use this
household staple for everyday
projects, from soaking up stains to
treating canker sores.
Health
13 R E A S O N S TO LO V E
AND TAKE PROBIOTICS 31
Learn about the many important
reasons to stock up on these
friendly bacteria.
38
NATURAL REMEDIES FOR YOUR
PERSONAL AILMENTS 34
Naturally treat embarrassing
conditions such as bad breath,
hair loss and bladder infections.
UNDER THE SUN 38
Protect your skin from damaging
UV rays and toxic chemicals by
increasing your sunscreen smarts.
Food
THE WONDERS
O F CO CO N U T O I L 41
This tropical fruit can improve
our health in myriad ways, from
reducing inflammation to burning
fat more efficiently.
41
FOOD & MOOD 46
New research into the links between
diet and depression yields advice for
happier eating.
B E T T E R T H A N B OT T L E D 48
Enjoy the fresher, preservative-free
flavors of homemade ketchup,
mustard, mayo and relish.
Garden
GROW A CONTAINER GARDEN 7 8
Use our guide to container gardening
and enjoy fresh veggies all summer.
WILDLIFEPROOF
YO U R G A R D E N 82
Try these safe, practical defenses
to protect your garden from
hungry critters.
GROWING, HARVESTING
AND USING BASIL 84
Discover the health benefits and
many uses for easy-to-grow basil.

In Every Issue
Inside This Issue 2
Your Letters 10
78 Best for a Healthy Home 15
To Your Health 9 6

6 motherearthliving.com WorldMags.net
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Bob Legault, Sales Director
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Matthew Stallbaumer, Assistant Group Art Director
Bob Cucciniello, Newsstand/Production Manager

Ogden Publications, Inc. cannot be held responsible

for unsolicited manuscripts, photographs, illustrations
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Telephone: (800) 456-6018, toll-free
Fax: (785) 274-4305

Mother Earth Living (ISSN 0017-4289) is published

bimonthly by Ogden Publications, Inc., 1503 S.W. 42nd
St., Topeka, KS 66609-1265. Periodicals postage paid at
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SUBSCRIBERS: If the Post Office alerts us that your magazine

is undeliverable, we have no further obligation unless we
receive a corrected address within two years.

Mother Earth Living does not recommend, approve or

endorse the products and/or services offered by companies
advertising in the magazine or on the website. Nor does
Mother Earth Living evaluate the advertisers’ claims in any
way. You should use your own judgment and evaluate prod-
ucts and services carefully before deciding to purchase.

Mother Earth Living is printed on 100% de-inked,

post-consumer fiber paper and is processed
chlorine free. Printed in the U.S.A.

Circle #8; see card pg 72

8 motherearthliving.com WorldMags.net
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YOUR LETTERS

OLSWPUN`V\YLK\JL[V_PUZHUK
JYLH[LHOLHS[O`OVTL
In All Honesty
Yesterday I went to Barnes & Noble, sat in the sunshine,
and thumbed through more than a dozen magazines.
Mother Earth Living is the only one I purchased. This ter-
rific issue (January/February 2014) started with an honest
comment, “…researchers were unable to find even one
unhappy millionaire,” followed by thoughts on how to
“achieve the same kind of wealth without the high price
tag.” Then it offered several great ideas, from having a soup or book
swap party to easy energy-saving tips. I will be watching for more issues of this unique
and helpful publication!
KRIS KRAMER, Asheville, North Carolina

EXPOSING CANOLA OIL CO M F O R T R E A D

I am so pleased to see a mainstream
magazine print the truth about canola
oil (“All About Fats,” January/February
2014). It is the worst oil for you, and
free & simple ™
because of the marketing hype it is in too
many food and pet products.
MARIA CIRILLO
Hampton, New Jersey
/HYK^VVK-SVVY*SLHULY GINGER SPICE
How do you use ginger as an anti-
inflammatory? Fresh or in capsules?
Dosage? Help! My aching back thanks
Consumers 90% you in advance.
spend 90% of MINDI GUIDAS SCHOMPERT
their time indoors, Collinsburg, Pennsylvania
65% of that time
in the home EDITOR’S NOTE: Ginger is an effective
65% anti-inflammatory, and recent studies show
it may help reduce pain from osteoarthritis.
In one study, participants who took a
Indoor ginger extract twice daily had less pain in
Pollution Air indoors is 3-7 their knees and needed fewer pain-killing
times more polluted medications than those who received a
than outdoor air placebo. For arthritic pain, take 250 to 500
mg in capsules, two to three times a day.
Outdoor Don’t take more than 4 grams a day, and
Pollution don’t give to children younger than 2.
S TAY I N F O R M E D O N G M O S
About a year ago, you printed a long
This was the perfect time for the diverse
selection of articles for the cold-weather
months (January/February 2014 issue)—
definitely a comfort read. After I just
finished the book The Great Cholesterol
Myth Cookbook by Jonny Bowden, the
article “All About Fats” seemed timely, as
did the article “14 Ways to Recharge.”
—SHARON ELGIN
Henderson, North Carolina
A LWAYS B E P R E PA R E D
Thank you for the January/February
2014 article “3 Easy Steps to Emergency
Preparedness.” I keep a small quantity of
supplies in the house at all times. With
the bad weather this year, I think a lot of
people will start looking at how important
it is to be prepared for any emergency.
—MAGGI SCHROCK
Tampa, Florida
FU TU R E I N OU R HA ND S
The best thing we can teach our
children is to think about everything,
“How can I reuse this; what can I do with
this?” Curious minds are so wonderful
and refreshing! I think we grandparents
need to instill in our children and grand-
children the beauty of nature—take time
for a walk, glance at the stars, grow a

{ Dust, allergens and chemicals in the

home significantly contribute to pollution
Source: Enviromental Protection Agency and Asthma &
Allergy Foundation of America:
Recommended by
Professionals Since 1919
Circle #12; see card pg 73
} and informative article on GMOs, and I
would love to see more articles on that
subject. Too many people in this country
are clueless about this topic, and it is so
garden—and wait to see the benefits,
the beauty and the sheer joy! There is so
much hope for us, but we need to help
our young ones stay on track. The future
important that we all stay informed. is in our hands, too.
PATRICIA OROZCO JOY BENNETT
Tucson, Arizona Angels Camp, California
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Immunology
Circle #12; see card pg 72
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YOUR LETTERS
motherearthliving
.com
Throughout this issue, we direct you to motherearthliving.com for more great
content. Read on to discover even more online resources.
H E A LT H Y S A L A D B A S I C S
If you crave an endless supply of fresh
and tasty salads, we’ve got everything
you need to know on our website.
We’ve gathered our best resources
for learning to grow greens, as well as
some of our favorite salad and dress-
ing recipes. Learn how to plant a salad
garden and take advantage of greens’
wide array of textures, flavors and col-
ors to create an almost limitless num-
ber of yummy meal combinations—
with our help! motherearthliving.com/
healthy-salads
P L A N YO U R G A R D E N
The Mother Earth Living Garden
Planner enables you to make custom
digital garden plans based on your
location, the size of your garden and
the plants you want to grow. It even
emails you reminders of when to
plant. Download the Planner at
gardenplanner.motherearthliving.com.
D I G I TA L I S S U E S
We also offer digital versions of the
magazine you know and love. Buy
single issues or sign up for a digital
subscription for yourself or a friend.
motherearthliving.com/digital-editions
Circle #18; see card pg 73
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J O I N U S O N I N S TAG R A M
Get a behind-the-scenes look into the
making of Mother Earth Living. We’re
excited to share what our editors are
doing, making and baking, as well as
give you sneak peeks into the latest
from the magazine. Follow us at
instagram.com/motherearthliving
and share your pics with the tag
#motherearthliving.
S H A R E YO U R O P I N I O N !
Join our Editorial Advisory Group
to vote on our potential cover options
and upcoming story ideas. It’s fun,
free, easy and tremendously valuable
to us. motherearthliving.com/eag
WIN FREE
STUFF
We are always
giving away
exciting prize
packages. Right now we are giving
away a Savvy Rest organic mattress,
valued at $3,500, to one lucky winner!
Visit for your chance to win.
motherearthliving.com/giveaways
S H A R E YO U R T H O U G H T S
We love getting feedback about
what you see or would like to see
in Mother Earth Living. Send your
message via email, Facebook, phone
or letter. Please include your name,
address and phone number.
EMAIL: editor@motherearthliving.com
FACEBOOK: facebook.com/mother
earthliving
PHONE: (800) 340-5846
MAIL: Mother Earth Living
1503 SW 42nd St., Topeka, KS 66609
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Best for a
Healthy Home
IDEAS + PRODUCTS + RESOURCES + MORE

Cheers to Summer
A healthy home is a happy home, and early summer might
be one of the easiest times of year to increase you and
your loved ones’ happiness quotient with some quality
time spent together. Long, warm days spent hiking, swim-
ming, gardening or playing outdoors come to a delightful
end when we cozy up in the evening in a beautiful, simple
and fresh home. Throughout this issue, we offer tips to
bring nature indoors, refresh your home’s spaces, and ditch
unhealthy products and identify better options. We hope it
all adds up to a happier home and a healthier you.

PHOTO BY RAYA CARLISLE

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fashion worth wearing, worth buying

and worth talking about.

www.indigenous.com
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 WorldMags.net
The Great
Outdoors
...And the Living’s Easy
As summer heads our way, many of us plan activity-filled weekends
and vacations. But trying to cram too much into our downtime can be
a recipe for meltdowns. Try these tips for a rejuvenating weekend or
a relaxing getaway. For more on the subject, explore the work of
Gretchen Rubin, best-selling author of The Happiness Project and Happier
at Home and the blog The Happiness Project (gretchenrubin.com).
LISTEN TO YOUR BODY. Before you head out on any excursion,
1 take note: Are you tired? Hungry? What about your children and
partner? The most exquisitely planned day will be miserable if
you have an exhausted family with grumbly tummies.
2
DO WHAT YOU LOVE. Is the day you’ve planned what you really
want to do, or is it your idea of what families should do together?
Embrace what your family enjoys most and plan accordingly.
PLAN THE RIGHT AMOUNT. Are you trying to pack in too much?
3 Be sure to leave enough time for everyone to go with the flow,
walk a little slower and enjoy the moment.
Pack a Perfect Picnic
Try these tips for an enjoyable meal eaten in the park, on the beach, on a boat or wherever strikes your fancy.
TO-GO TALES: Whatever food you pack, jars (visit motherearthliving.com/
it must be easy to both transport and eat perfect-picnic to create a spillproof lid
while sitting on the ground. Try salads or with a straw for Mason jars) or herbal
rice bowls packed in Mason jars. iced tea in a big steel bottle.
BRING ON BEVERAGES: Be sure to plan A TISKET, A TASKET: If you need a picnic
for a refreshing beverage: Easy ideas basket to hold all these goodies, Boxsal
include homemade lemonade in Mason (boxsal.com) offers reusable ones
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BEST FOR A HEALTHY HOME
The simplest things are what make summer so
enjoyable—feeling our feet in the grass, hearing
insects hum, enjoying the shade of a wooded
trail. Seize the moment by taking your family out
to enjoy the natural world with these ideas.
A D AY AT T H E B E AC H
SUIT UP: Even if you aren’t close to the seashore,
everywhere has a place where locals wear their
bathing suits, whether a river, reservoir or
community pool.
SWIM TIME: Spend some time floating in the
water, just enjoying being buoyant (and cool).
COOL DOWN: Whether it’s homemade popsicles
(find recipes at motherearthliving.com/home
made-popsicles) or a trip to the local ice cream
parlor, a cool treat is the perfect way to wrap up
a beach day.
A D AY I N T H E W O O D S
LUNCH ON A BLANKET: Follow the tips in “Pack a
Perfect Picnic” below for a perfectly portable lunch.
CLOUD WATCHING: Kick back to see what every-
one envisions in the clouds while lunch digests.
NATURE WALK: A leisurely walk along a wooded
trail is even more fun with a nature scavenger
hunt—make a list of interesting items to search
for such as smooth stones, feathers, flowers or
shapely branches (you might turn some of these
items into décor using our
ideas on page 21).
complete with compostable utensils
and plates. Just need utensils? Check
out the reusable bamboo ones on page
28, specifically made for on-the-go.
SIT PRETTY: Don’t forget to toss an old
blanket in your picnic basket—one big
enough for everyone to fit on.
Mother Earth Living May/June 2014 17
RIVERS
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...especially the Penobscot. Each time

you make a purchase from these brands,
1% of that sale goes to a global network
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 WorldMags.net BEST FOR A HEALTHY HOME

DIY IT or BUY IT: Air Fresheners

Air fresheners are marketed as an easy way to bring fresh, natural smells into
our homes, with names such as “clean breeze” and “simply spring.” But the main
BUY IT
ingredients in commercial air fresheners are not actually close to nature; instead
Aura Cacia
they tend to be industrial chemicals, some of which are listed as chemical hazards by
Pocket Diffuser
the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Don’t want these nasty chemicals all
$22; auracacia.com
over your house (and your family’s respiratory tract)? We don’t blame you! At right,
folding diffuser disperses
we offer five truly natural air fresheners, and below, a recipe to make your own.
pure essential oils

DIY IT Mia Rose Air

On her blog Itty Bitty Impact (ittybittyimpact.com), homesteader Tonia Sterner offers Therapy Mists
great tips for doing a lot with a little, all while being easy on the earth, such as this simple $22; miarose.com
air freshener. The baking soda absorbs odors and your essential oil of choice smells essential oil mists
delicious and natural.
Plantlife Lavender
H O M E M A D E N AT U R A L Essential Oil
AIR FRESHENER $16; plantlife.net
1 cup baking soda pure botanical extracts
6 to 8 drops essential oil
(choose your favorite) Home Diffuser
Oil Gift Set
1 . Fill an attractive vessel of some $16; purepalette.etsy. com
sort (an old Mason jar works well) essential oils, a diffuser
about ¼ full of baking soda. oil base, natural reeds
2. Add essential oil to baking soda. and recycled glass vase
3. Leave the jar open for maximum
scent dispersal (but keep out of Zum Lavender-Mint
reach of pets and kids), or do what Room & Body Mist
I did and punch some holes in the $11; indigowild.com
lid with a hammer and nail. purified water and
4. Shake the jar gently every few essential oils; use it on
days to revive the scent, and add everything from your face
more oil as needed. to your laundry

86%
I N G R E D I E N T TO WATC H F O R :

Percentage of common air fresheners
that contained phthalates (hazard-
ous chemicals known to be endocrine
disruptors) when tested in a study by
the Natural Resources Defense Council,
despite not listing them as ingredients.
Formaldehyde
If you ever buy conventional air fresheners—the plug-in or spray
kind, or the ones that look like a little dome—you might want to
reconsider. Most air fresheners contain formaldehyde, petroleum
distillates and aerosol propellants. Formaldehyde is an ingredient of
particular concern. A suspected human carcinogen linked with lung
and nasal cancer, formaldehyde can cause watery eyes, burning sen-
sations in the eyes and throat, and difficulty breathing for some. In
high concentrations, it may trigger asthma attacks.

WorldMags.net Mother Earth Living May/June 2014 19

 WorldMags.net
Practicing Mindfulness: An
Introduction to Meditation
Taught by Professor Mark W. Muesse
TIME O RHODES COLLEGE
ED F
IT LECTURE TITLES

FE
LIM
70%

R
1. Mindlessness—The Default Setting
2. Mindfulness—The Power of Awareness
3. Expectations—Relinquishing Preconceptions
off 4. Preparation—Taking Moral Inventory

30
RD

O
5. Position—Where to Be for Meditation
ER NE 6. Breathing—Finding a Focus for Attention
BY J U
7. Problems—Stepping-Stones to Mindfulness
8. Body—Attending to Our Physical Natures
9. Mind—Working with Thoughts
10. Walking—Mindfulness While Moving
11. Consuming—Watching What You Eat
12. Driving—Staying Awake at the Wheel
13. Insight—Clearing the Mind
14. Wisdom—Seeing the World as It Is
15. Compassion—Expressing Fundamental Kindness
16. Imperfection—Embracing Our Flaws
17. Wishing—May All Beings Be Well and Happy
18. Generosity—The Joy of Giving
19. Speech—Training the Tongue
20. Anger—Cooling the Fires of Irritation
21. Pain—Embracing Physical Discomfort
22. Grief—Learning to Accept Loss
23. Finitude—Living in the Face of Death
24. Life—Putting It All in Perspective

Discover the Essence

of Mindful Meditation
In recent decades, science has confirmed that meditation, when
correctly practiced, offers lasting benefits for your physical, mental, and
emotional health. Now, in Practicing Mindfulness: An Introduction
to Meditation, experienced meditator and professor Mark W. Muesse
gives you a clear understanding of the essence of meditation—and how
best to practice it.
In 24 detailed lectures filled with guided exercises, he teaches you the
principles and techniques of sitting meditation, the related practice of
walking meditation, the use of meditative awareness in activities such
as eating and driving, and more. Emphasizing clarity and practical
understanding, his course will leave you with a solid basis for your own
practice and for bringing meditation’s empowering benefits into every
area of your life.
Offer expires 06/30/14
1-800-832-2412
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WorldMags.net
Practicing Mindfulness:
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 WorldMags.net HOME DECORATING

A plain wood slice offers

rustic elegance when used as
a charger under a place set-
ting. You can buy a wide array
of wood slices from Etsy retailers.
Firefly Ranch Rustic Works, which
provided the slice used here, offers a
range of sizes; a single 9-inch slice costs
$12.50. ffranchrusticworks.etsy.com
PHOTO BY THOMAS GIBSON

Decorate with Nature

Discover these clever ways to showcase nature in your home.
BY A L L I S O N M A R T I N

AS HUMAN BEINGS, we’re soothed by nature. Hundreds of studies back up our propensity to be calmed
by the sounds and sights of the outdoors. Why not bring these comforting elements of the natural
world into our living spaces? Natural décor can make our homes feel grounded, stylish and more tied
to the seasons. Plus, creating décor projects with stuff we find around our homes is fun. Read on for
tips on decorating with items straight from the wild.
WorldMags.net Mother Earth Living May/June 2014 21
 HOME DECORATING
WorldMags.net
Branch Out
Embrace the outdoors and liven up
your living room by trying an alterna-
tive to traditional floral arrangements—
simply arrange beautiful, statuesque
branches in a vase. Visit any flowering
trees in your yard and use pruners to
cut yourself several large branches,
then use garden scissors to make small
slits in the base of the branches to
aid in water absorption. Within a few
weeks, the branches should flower
indoors. Another option is to visit the
florist for blossoming cherry branches,
in which case you do not need to add
slits. To arrange your branches, you will
need a large, sturdy vase that is tall
enough to prevent tipping. Another
tip? Do your arranging on the floor; the
branches should be quite tall (3 to 5
feet), so you will need space to be able
to easily maneuver them.
Erin Boyle from the blog Gardenista
(gardenista.com) arranges cherry blossoms
in her small apartment. PHOTO COURTESY ERIN BOYLE
22 motherearthliving.com
Living Treasures
Terrariums are a wonderful way to incorporate plants
and other bits of nature—moss, stones, lichen, sea-
shells—into home décor. Terrariums can be as simple
as plants, moss, stones or anything else
you’ve gathered artfully placed in a
glass vessel, and a number of books
and blogs offer specific instruc-
tions and inspiration. Below
are the instructions for the
“Tiny Bubbles” terrarium
from the book Terrarium
Craft by Amy Bryant Aiello
and Kate Bryant. You can
follow these instructions
to the letter, or simply
take inspiration from this
project and use it to cre-
ate your own terrarium
with bits of nature you
collect from your area.
PHOTO BY THOMAS GIBSON
TINY BUBBLES
6 mini-deco vases (3 inches high)
6 strands of gold thread
(varying lengths)
Eye-hook or other ceiling
attachment
3 sprigs chartreuse reindeer moss
2 sprigs cream reindeer moss
8 small bones or seashells
½ handful white pebbles
¼ handful Monterey beach pebbles
25 small carnelian agate stones
1 sprig old man’s beach lichen
1. Clean terrarium glass inside and out.
2 . Knot thread around each vase neck and
suspend them at varying heights from a
sturdy ceiling hook.
3 . To each vase, add a mix of raw
materials that pleases you. From top to
bottom, the vases we made include: a
sprig of chartreuse reindeer moss with
some Monterey beach pebbles; a clump PHOTO BY KATE BALDWIN
of cream reindeer moss plus a few carnelian agate stones; bones; a sprig
each of cream and chartreuse reindeer moss and a sprig of old man’s beard
lichen; a sprig of chartreuse reindeer moss and a bunch of small carnelian
agate stones; a sprig each of cream and chartreuse reindeer moss with
some white pebbles.
WorldMags.net
 WorldMags.net
55 Years
of Selling History

Room and Board offers the Allard

end table with sugar maple tops
from a family farm in Vermont.
17 to 19 inches around, 26 inches
high, $429; roomandboard.com

You want to process the food

you have grown in your garden.
And we can help! Lehman’s
PHOTO COURTESY ROOM AND BOARD
is your source for canning,
Slice of Heaven preserving, drying and freezing
Wood slices are cheap and easy to come by, and they add an instant rustic feel to fresh food.
any room. Several blogs, books and retailers offer interesting uses for wood slices.
If you have access to trees ready for a trim, simply create slices by using a saw to cut Visit www.Lehmans.com for
through a log of wood. Otherwise, a number of Etsy retailers offer wood slices in more information, or make a
a range of sizes. Tiny slices can become cute coasters or plant trays. Medium slices trip to Amish country and stop
make beautiful chargers under place settings or trays to hold candles, flowers or by our retail store in Kidron,
other display items. If you have access to bigger slices, consider mounting them OH the heart of Amish country.
atop a stool or table legs to create a homespun piece of furniture.
1-888-438-5346

YES! Send me your huge catalog.

Enclosed is $3:

NAME:

ADDRESS:
ABOVE: Etsy retailer
HomeSweetBoutique offers
this Tree Trunk Chalkboard EMAIL:
Sign for $20. homesweet
boutique.etsy.com.
Mail to Dept. DEPT. D-WHM
LEFT: This simple wood slice Lehman's • 289 Kurzen Road N
cake stand is perfect for an Dalton, OH 44618
outdoor wedding. 18-inch
cake base, $53; postscripts.
or visit us on the web at
etsy.com
www.Lehmans.com
1-877-438-5346
WorldMags.net
 WorldMags.net
HOME DECORATING

TOXIC
CHEMICALS Roughing It
Kill Bugs For a bit of rustic wabi-sabi, let a
but Can Make natural, unfinished piece of wood
serve a function in your house. Take
People Sick a walk around your yard and see if
you can spy a branch with a nice arch
to it. For an au naturel light fixture,
attach the branch to the wall, then
drape the cord of a hanging fixture
around it artfully, allowing the fix-
ture itself to dangle from the section
of branch that arches out from the
wall. Plug in the fixture, and ta-da!
Kills and
Repels Bugs Another idea: Create a curtain rod
from a tree branch. Measure your
window for width, and then look for
All Ingredients are on a branch with a diameter of about
the FDA Generally 1½ inches that will lie relatively
flat. You can always trim a too-long
Recognized as Safe List branch. Then, snip off extra twigs
so that the curtain has room to
maneuver, and remove any leaves.
For an opaque finish, pick off any
loose bark and sand down rough
spots. Then paint the branch. For an
earthy look, just skip the sanding
What do you step before painting. To hang, use
use to kill bugs in Artists Kimi Weart (printablepress.com) and Paul
basic curtain rod brackets to secure Galloway turned a branch into a light fixture in their
your home? the branch to the wall. Brooklyn, New York, home. PHOTO BY TREVOR TONDRO

ABOVE: If you decide to make

this curtain rod, embrace the
imperfections that make
natural home accents special.

LEFT: Julie from the blog

Less-Than-Perfect Life of Bliss
(lessthanperfectlifeofbliss.
blogspot.com) made a gorgeous
curtain rod for her daughter’s
1.888.659.3217 room using a branch from
her yard. PHOTOS COURTESY LESS
THANPEFECT LIFE OF BLISS, LESSTHAN

visit PERFECTLIFEOFBLISS.BLOGSPOT.COM

orangeguard.com
for your local retailer
WorldMags.net
Circle #30; see card pg 72
 WorldMags.net HOME SAFER SPACES

25 Strategies for Eliminating

Plastic from Your Life
Plastics are ubiquitous, yet their negative health effects are well-documented.
Use these tips to reduce the plastic in your home and life.

PLASTICS: THEY’RE EVERYWHERE and in most everything—

from electronics and automobiles to food containers. In fact,
the average American generates between 88 and 122 pounds
of plastic waste at home each year. Plastics contain endocrine-
disrupting chemicals that interfere with the balance of hor-
mones in the body, and researchers have found that most
plastics—even those labeled BPA-free—can leach these chemi-
cals into food.
A study by the Endocrine Society found that even low expo-
sure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals can cause significant
adverse health effects, including cardiovascular disease, obesity,
cancer and infertility. Plastics are also made from petroleum (a
non-renewable resource) and can be difficult to recycle. Use the
strategies that follow to help keep your family—and the planet
—healthier by cutting back on your use of plastics.

AROUND THE HOUSE

BUY GOODS MADE OF NATURAL FIBERS: Engineered fabrics such
as polyester, nylon and vinyl are all made of plastic. Clothing,
accessories and bedding are frequently made of engineered plas- Plastic is particularly
problematic in con-
tics. Avoid polyester blends for clothing and bedroom linens, tact with food. Opt
opting instead for items made of organic cotton and wool. for glass and ceramic
in the kitchen.

CHOOSE A SMARTER SHOWER CURTAIN: Many shower cur-

tains are made of vinyl, a synthetic material that releases
compounds into the air in a process known as offgassing.
Offgassing is particularly problematic in small, poorly venti-
lated bathrooms, where chemicals can be concentrated. Opt
for natural curtains that aren’t chemically treated, such as
the organic hemp shower curtain available from Rawganique
(rawganique.com) or a flax-based linen shower curtain from
Gaiam (gaiam.com).
Produce Without the Plastic
Get tips for storing fruits and vegetables without
plastic from the Berkeley Ecology Center’s handy
fact sheet: ecologycenter.org/wp-content/
uploads/2012/05/eliminate-plastic.pdf.
CHOOSE NATURAL FLOORING: Carpet and vinyl flooring
contain the carcinogen polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and release
volatile organic compounds—including formaldehyde from
glues, fabric treatments, stains and varnishes—into the air,
according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Use low-emission alternatives including bamboo, cork, linoleum,
ceramic tiles or hardwood.
BUILD A BETTER BATHROOM: Bathroom products generate
large amounts of plastic waste. One option is to make your own
personal-care products and store them in glass or tin contain-
ers. Try whipping up your own toothpaste, lotions and soaps,
for example. (Find recipes at motherearthliving.com/nontoxic-
beauty.) Alternatively, buy products with little or no packaging.
Minimally packaged bar soap can sub for liquid hand soap, body
wash, and even shampoo and shaving cream. Mountain Sky
Soaps (mountainskysoap.com) sells bar soap in paper packag-
ing, including bars of shaving soap and shampoo soap. >>

WorldMags.net Mother Earth Living May/June 2014 25

 HOME SAFER SPACES
WorldMags.net
You can reduce plastic food packaging and realize significant savings by
shopping from your grocery store’s bulk bins.
USE REFILLABLE PRODUCTS: Reusing is even better than recy-
cling. Instead of plastic disposables, choose refillable/reusable
versions of toner cartridges, pens, lighters, toothbrushes, razors
and the like to reduce waste.
AVOID LIQUID LAUNDRY SOAP IN PLASTIC BOTTLES: Use pow-
dered laundry detergent packaged in paper boxes or make your
own soap using washing soda and grated bar soap. (Find a recipe
at motherearthliving.com/laundry-detergent.)
I N T H E K I TC H E N
OPT FOR NONPLASTIC FOOD-STORAGE CONTAINERS: Although
lightweight and convenient, plastic food containers contain
chemicals that easily migrate into food. Giving up plastic con-
tainers is a great place to start your plastic-purging campaign.
Ceramic and glass containers work well at home, and metal
containers are great on the go.
DRINK TAP WATER: Bottled water is costly, less regulated for qual-
ity than tap water, and produces waste. The average person uses
167 plastic water bottles annually, and recycles only 38. At home,
drink tap water—if you are concerned about contaminants, install
an on-faucet or whole-house filter. (To learn more about your
water quality, visit water.epa.gov/drink/local.) When you’re on
the go, take stainless-steel water bottles. Aluminum water bottles
can be lined with an epoxy-resin lining containing bisphenol-A
(BPA); avoid bottles with a golden yellow coating inside.
AVOID PLASTIC WRAP AND WAX PAPER: Plastic wrap is difficult
to recycle and may contain PVC, a known human carcinogen.
Most wax paper is coated in paraffin wax from a petroleum base
26 motherearthliving.com WorldMags.net
or a formaldehyde-based resin. Instead, store food in ceramic,
glass or stainless-steel containers. Plastic lids don’t leach toxins
into food if the product doesn’t come in contact with the lid.
CHOOSE LOCAL AND HOMEGROWN: Farm- and garden-grown
produce is rarely, if ever, packaged in plastic. Whenever possible,
skip the grocery store produce and opt instead for food available
via your own yard, a farmers market or a local community-
supported agriculture (CSA) subscription.
AT T H E G R O C E R Y S TO R E
BUY IN BULK: You can avoid packaging by purchasing beans,
grains, nuts, cereals, pastas, spices and even personal-care prod-
ucts from bulk bins. Bring your own reusable cloth bags and
jars. When purchasing packaged foods, opt for larger portions.
Small food packages typically have more plastic packaging per
serving. Avoid individually wrapped foods such as cheese, juice
and yogurt. Instead, use your own reusable containers to carry
smaller portions with you on the go.
SKIP PLASTIC FOOD PACKAGING: Many foods such as juice, nut
butters, butter, sauces, spreads and eggs are available in contain-
ers made of glass, metal or cardboard. If you must buy food in
plastic packaging, avoid plastics with the resin code #3 (polyvi-
nyl chloride), #6 (polystyrene) or #7 (other) in a triangle on the
bottom of the package, as they pose a greater known health risk
and are difficult to recycle.
SHOP FROM THE DELI COUNTER: Meat and cheese products are
typically sold in plastic, and thus the deli counter is one of the
only ways to avoid it completely. Bring your own containers, or
ask the butcher to wrap food in parchment paper.
AVOID CANNED FOODS: Food cans often contain a lining made
of BPA (see “What Does BPA-Free Really Mean?” on page 27).
A study in The Journal of the American Medical Association
finds that eating canned foods dramatically increases BPA
exposure. Aseptic containers (those cardboard boxes milk
and juice are sometimes packaged in) are lined with polyeth-
ylene and not recyclable in all areas, so these aren’t an ideal
substitute. Whenever possible, make soup and beans from
scratch or buy them in glass bottles or cans that indicate a
Get Inspired
Enjoy the inspirational story of how Beth Terry
dared to break the plastic habit in her book Plastic-
Free: How I Kicked the Plastic Habit and You Can Too,
available at motherearthliving.com/shopping.
 WorldMags.net
BPA-free lining such as those from Eden Foods (edenfoods.com).
Some companies that market BPA-free cans don’t disclose what is
used as an alternative. Eden Foods uses oleoresin, a natural mix-
ture of oil and resin, instead of BPA. Opting for fresh fruits and
vegetables can circumvent this particular problem as well.
CARRY COTTON OR SECONDHAND REUSABLE BAGS WITH YOU:
Store shopping bags in your trunk, or keep folding bags in a
handbag or backpack for impromptu shopping trips. Most reus-
able shopping bags sold at retail stores are made of nonwoven
polypropylene, which is not washable and may contain high
levels of lead. Use natural fiber or secondhand bags.
BUY PLASTIC-FREE PRODUCE: Use reusable cloth bags for pro-
duce (we offer reusable produce bags at motherearthliving.com/
shopping), and look for produce not packaged in plastic.
OUT AND ABOUT
BRING REUSABLE CONTAINERS TO RESTAURANTS: Avoid dis-
posable packaging by storing leftovers and even carryout
food (if the restaurant will allow it) in your own containers.
Clamshell containers are particularly concerning as they may
contain polystyrene or PVC, while unbleached boxes are a
cleaner and greener option. Ask for no cutlery or condiments if
you can do without.
CARRY YOUR OWN CUTLERY: Plastic utensils often contain poly-
styrene and can leach styrene, a possible human carcinogen, into
food. Use bamboo or metal silverware whenever possible. (See
“Plastic-Less Products” on page 28 for suggestions.)
BRING A CUP: Plastic cups are often made of polystyrene. If you
frequently stop for a coffee while on the run, keep a reusable
coffee mug in the car—most baristas will gladly fill a reusable
cup for you. If you’re a smoothie fan, keep a 20-ounce thermos
in the trunk for your favorite blend.
SKIP THE STRAW: When out at a restaurant, you can cut back
a bit on plastic consumption by skipping the straw. Have kids
who love straws in their beverages? Use a reusable metal or glass
straw. (See “Plastic-Less Products” on page 28.)
T H I S A N D T H AT
CHOOSE NATURAL GUM ALTERNATIVES: Who knew? Most
chewing gum is made out of a plastic called polyvinyl acetate,
manufactured using vinyl acetate, a chemical shown to cause
tumors in lab rats. Instead of gum, chew on ginger chews, fennel
seeds or mint leaves for fresh breath.
RENT OR BORROW: If you need a tool, appliance or piece of
equipment for a short time, consider renting or borrowing
WorldMags.net
HOME SAFER SPACES
What Does BPA-Free
Really Mean?
Bisphenol-A (BPA) is a chemical additive in hard
plastics and is widely used in water bottles, baby
bottles, dental fillings, DVDs, linings in food cans
and other household goods. The safety of BPA is
under scrutiny because it acts as an endocrine
disruptor and has been linked with reproductive
disorders, heart disease, asthma, breast cancer and
memory problems.
Unfortunately, BPA is not the only chemical of
concern in plastics; BPA-free isn’t synonymous
with safe. Studies show that most plastics, even
those labeled BPA-free, leach endocrine-disrupting
chemicals. The best way to avoid such chemicals is
to keep plastic from coming into contact with food
and beverages. The good news is that studies show
avoiding exposure to BPA in food can cause levels
in the body to drop within just a few days.
it from a hardware store, community center or friend. Most
such items contain plastics, and buying an item you rarely use
increases production.
START PLANTS FROM SEED: Most seedlings from nurseries come
in plastic trays. Peat containers aren’t a green alternative because
peat removal is harmful to ecosystems. Instead, grow garden
plants from seed at home. If you do purchase plants from a nurs-
ery, ask if they will reuse plastic plant pots if returned to them.
CHOOSE NATURAL DIAPERS: Disposable diapers commonly con-
tain a polyethylene film, polyester foam, polyurethane or other
synthetic materials. Either use cloth diapers or carefully select
disposables with a lower plastic content. Seventh Generation
(seventhgeneration.com) makes diapers that are filled with
unbleached wood pulp. Naty by Nature Babycare (naty.com)
diapers are made with GMO-free corn and are partially biode-
gradable. The Honest Company (honest.com) offers disposable
diapers free of chlorine processing, latex, phthalates, PVC and
petrochemical additives, delivered via subscription service.
RESPONSIBLY DISPOSE OF ELECTRONICS: It’s impossible to avoid
plastics in electronics, one of the largest uses of the material.
Instead, donate or sell reusable electronics, or make sure your
old electronics are properly recycled. Many electronics recyclers
do not responsibly recycle products, so use an e-Stewards certi-
fied recycler (e-stewards.org/find-a-recycler) when possible.
Mother Earth Living May/June 2014 27
 WorldMags.net
Come grow with us.
HOME SAFER SPACES

Come and enjoy our 300 scenic acres in Plastic-Less Products

the mountains of western North Carolina. Whether you are grabbing takeout while
In every season, learn real cooking, gardening working late or packing a picnic, these
& homesteading, crafts, music, and writing. products can help nix plastic in your
Engaging hands and hearts since 1925. day-to-day life. Check out our five
favorite on-the-go gadgets.
JOHN C. CAMPBELL FOLK SCHOOL
folkschool.org 1-800-FOLK-SCH
BRASSTOWN NORTH CAROLINA THE PE R FEC T FIT
The 3-tier, stainless-steel
Circle #24; see card pg 72
tiffin set from To-Go Ware
has a self-latching top con-


  tainer that allows you to



take one or all three tiers.
$25; to-goware.com

Focusing on the use of salvaged and reclaimed materials, Mother

Earth Living Editor-in-Chief Jessica Kellner delivers an inspirational TAK EOU T TOOL K IT
volume packed with case studies of innovative building projects. Bamboo is both light-
weight and durable, mak-
Item #5298 | $24.95
ing this bamboo utensil
Order today! set from To-Go Ware,
Call (800) 456-6018 or visit complete with flatware
www.MotherEarthLiving.com/Shopping and chopsticks, great for
meals on the go.
$13; to-goware.com

FR ES H WATE R
The Klean Kanteen
stainless-steel bottle is
made of food-grade steel,
contains no liner inside
and is easy to clean.
$19; kleankanteen.com

GR OC ERY GUI DE
Ideal for grains and
produce, muslin
produce bags from
Simple Ecology are
made from unbleached
organic cotton and are machine washable.
6 for $30; simpleecology.com

S I LV E R S I PS
The CocoStraw stainless-
steel straw with cleaning
brush can be used for
sipping delicious drinks
for years.
4 for $11; rawnori.com
Circle #22; see card pg 72

28 motherearthliving.com WorldMags.net
 WorldMags.net
Salt of the Earth
Discover 11 ways to use salt for everyday projects
around your home.
SALT IS A HOUSEHOLD STAPLE that offers many uses beyond flavoring and
preserving food. You may already know that salt is a natural abrasive, which
makes it good for scrubbing hard-to-clean surfaces, but did you know it can
also soak up stains, treat canker sores and brighten laundry? Check out these
and other uses for salt below.
1 6
EASY CLEANUP. Remove caked-
on food from pots and pans by
soaking 3 tablespoons of salt in
enough water to cover the crusted-on
food. After a thorough soak, the food
should scrape off easily.
2
TREAT FRESH STAINS. Soak up
coffee, red wine or other fresh
stains from your carpet by pour-
ing an ample amount of salt on the
spot. After the stain and salt have dried,
vacuum them up.
3
CLEAN YOUR TEETH. When
combined with baking soda, salt
makes a good dentifrice for
cleaning teeth and gums. Mix three parts
baking soda with one part salt. Add a few
drops of food-grade peppermint
or cinnamon oil if you wish. Dip your
toothbrush in the mixture and brush
as normal.
4
WHIP UP A NATURAL EXFOLIANT.
Mix a pinch of salt with olive oil
in your palm to create a natural
exfoliant for your body. (Note: Because
salt is abrasive, don’t use it on your face
and do not use daily.)
5
PUT OUT A GREASE FIRE. While
water will feed the flames of a
grease fire, salt will absorb the
grease and help smother the fire, depriv-
ing it of the oxygen it needs to burn. Be
sure to douse—not sprinkle—the fire
with salt.
MAKE A NATURAL OVEN
CLEANER. Cleaning the oven is
one of the most arduous house-
hold tasks. To save yourself hours of
backbreaking work, try using salt. First,
make sure the oven is completely cool.
Next, wipe the bottom of the oven with
a damp cloth. Then pour a generous
amount of salt on the bottom of the
oven and let it sit for 10 minutes. Wipe
away whatever comes off easily with
a damp cloth, then either scrape the
remaining gunk with a scraping tool
or repeat the process to loosen more
baked-on food.
7
TREAT A SORE THROAT. A
common sore throat treatment,
gargling with salt water can
reduce swelling and relieve discomfort
from a sore throat by drawing out
some of the water from inflamed tissues
and cleansing the throat. Although a
salt water gargle won’t cure your sore
throat, it can help relieve symptoms.
8
HEAL WITH SALT. Because salt is
a natural disinfectant with anti-
inflammatory properties, rinsing
with salt water can help treat canker
sores, mouth ulcers and other mouth
wounds. A salt-water mouthwash is also
a good treatment for post-surgical tooth
removal. Because long-term use of
salt rinses can erode teeth, don’t use a
salt-water rinse for more than two to
three weeks.
WorldMags.net
HOME BASICS
9
SET AND REVIVE COLOR IN THE
WASH. Hard water can cause
brightly colored clothing to
appear dull after washing. To keep colors
vibrant, add salt to the wash. Salt sets
colors, which is useful for both prevent-
ing colors from fading and sealing them
so they don’t bleed in the wash. Add
1
⁄2 cup salt to the laundry cycle when
washing colors.
10
MAKE A SIMPLE SCRUBBER.
Avoid chlorine-based harsh
scrubbers by making your
own one-ingredient abrasive cleaner. Just
wipe the countertop, bathtub or other
dirty surface with hot water, pour on salt,
wait a few minutes, then scrub with a rag,
sponge or brush. (Note: Be sure to spot
test in an unobtrusive place before trying
this for the first time.)
11
SHELL NUTS EASILY. Soak
walnuts and pecans in salt
water for a few hours to
make them easier to shell.
SUSAN MELGREN
Mother Earth Living May/June 2014 29
 WorldMags.net

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Circle #2; see card pg 72

WorldMags.net www.AmericanHealthUS.com
 WorldMags.net HEALTH BASICS

13 Proven Reasons to Love

(and Take) Probiotics
There are many reasons we should stock up on these friendly bacteria—from digestive
health to neurological well-being and much, much more.
BY M I C H E L L E S C H O F F R O CO O K

IN OUR GERM-OBSESSED WORLD, we often perceive bacteria as the enemy—and we have the antibacterial
soaps, hand wipes and cleaning products to prove it. Although some bacteria may be harmful or even deadly,
we couldn’t live without the good bacteria that hitchhike their way through the world in our bodies. These
hitchhikers, known as probiotics, are the friendly bacteria found in fermented foods such as yogurt and sau-
erkraut. Most well-known for promoting good digestion, probiotics are proving beneficial to our health in
more ways than one. From reducing allergy-related symptoms to decreasing the precursors of brain diseases,
exciting new research shows that probiotics may help a lot more than just bowel health.

WorldMags.net Mother Earth Living May/June 2014 31

 HEALTH BASICS
WorldMags.net
The Pros of Probiotics
Of the many strains of probiotic
bacteria, those showing the most
promise include Lactobacillus strains
such as acidophilus, brevis, casei, plan-
tarum, reuteri and rhamnosus, along with
Bifidobacteria lactis and bifiform. These
names may sound like a foreign
language, but most can be found easily
in fermented foods and supplements.
(See “Shopping Tips” below.) Here are 13
ways probiotics may help boost health.
1
ASSIST WITH WEIGHT LOSS. Many
strains of probiotics may be ben-
eficial to weight-loss efforts, but
the Lactobacillus strains are particularly
valuable. They have been found to stabi-
lize blood sugar levels, which may result
in reduced cravings and less fat-storage
hormones. Probiotics even show promise
in the prevention and treatment of obesity
and metabolic disorders, according to the
journal Internal and Emergency Medicine.
2
TREAT INFECTIONS. Probiotics can
be used to prevent or treat upper
respiratory tract and ear infec-
tions, according to research published
in the Journal of Applied Microbiology.
The research discovered that probiotics
compete with harmful disease-causing
microbes for nutrients, space and even
attachment to their human hosts. As a
result, the probiotics can thrive at the
expense of the infectious microbes.
3
TREAT ULCERS AND GASTRITIS.
The bacterium Helicobacter pylori
has been linked with ulcers and
gastritis, which is an inflammation, irrita-
tion or erosion of the stomach lining.
Russian researchers found that adding the
probiotic bifiform improved the efficacy
of a standard anti-Helicobacter therapy
and is therefore a promising treatment for
these illnesses. In their research, probiot-
ics also demonstrated antibacterial action
and enhanced the body’s own immune
response against H. pylori.
32 motherearthliving.com
Fermented foods
such as kimchi,
sauerkraut and miso
are good sources of
probiotics.
4 6
IMPROVE SYMPTOMS OF
DEPRESSION. Researchers in
Hungary noted that recent stud-
ies have shown a frequent association
between depression and gastrointestinal
inflammation (and other diseases related
to inflammation). Studies have shown
that treating gastrointestinal inflamma-
tion with probiotics, along with vitamins B
and D and omega-3 fatty acids, may help
reduce depressive symptoms.
5
IMPROVE ENERGY AND SUGAR
METABOLISM. Exciting new
research published in the journal
Gut Microbes found that probiotics may
help improve the energy balance of the
body while also improving its ability to use
glucose (sugar) for energy. Because the
use of glucose for energy is impaired in
patients with diabetes, this research shows
probiotics may have promise as a possible
treatment for the disease.
Shopping Tips
O Choose supplements with labels
designating the full probiotic
name: genus, species and strain.
O Choose no-sugar-added yogurt
that says “live culture” on the
label. These yogurts may contain
a few strains of probiotics.
WorldMags.net
REDUCE SINUSITIS AND NASAL
CONGESTION linked to allergies.
The probiotic L. casei may exert an
anti-allergic effect by delaying the onset of
allergic symptoms, according to scientists
at the Osaka University School of Medicine.
7
FIGHT THE HERPES VIRUS.
Scientists at Sapienza University
in Rome found the probiotic
L. brevis shows significant antiviral activity
against the herpes simplex type 2 virus.
They published their findings in the
journal Anaerobe.
8
REDUCE INFLAMMATION. The
Gut Microbes study also found that
probiotics can help reduce inflam-
mation. Because many diseases such as
diabetes, cancer, heart disease and arthri-
tis have been linked to chronic inflam-
mation, probiotics may offer protection
against these serious conditions.


O Choose unpasteurized, unheated
fermented foods such as miso,
sauerkraut and kimchi. Heating
can damage or destroy probiotics.


O Visit probioticmiracle.com to
learn more about probiotics.
 WorldMags.net
Susan Bels
inger

9
TREAT CELIAC DISEASE. Celiac
disease is a misdirected immune
response triggered by gluten. The
probiotic L. casei can be helpful in restor-
ing normal microbe balance and intestinal
lining structure in mice, according to
Scandinavian studies. Their preliminary
research may offer hope to celiac sufferers zark Folk Center’s Heritage
if results are similar in humans. Herb Garden is a destination for
herbal education. Join us

10
IMPROVE SYMPTOMS OF at these events for fun and
COLITIS. Colitis is inflamma- informative introductions to herbs.
tion of the large intestine.
Scientists at the University of British
Columbia, Canada, indicate that probiotics
along with antibiotic drugs are an effec-
Artemisia -
tive treatment of recurrent diarrhea linked Herb of the
to colitis associated with infection by the Year 2014
bacterium Clostridium difficile.

11
IMPROVE JOINT FUNCTION.
In a study of 30 rheumatoid
arthritis sufferers, published
in the Medical Science Monitor, scientists at
the University of Western Ontario, Canada,
May 3, National Herb Day
noted joint function improvement in
those who took L. rhamnosus and L. reuteri
compared with those given placebos. Garden Glor y Days
May 13-16 and May 20-23

12
IMPROVE BREAST MILK
NUTRITION. Researchers at
Finland’s University of Turku
found that nursing women who supple-
mented with L. rhamnosus and B. lactis
produced breast milk of higher nutritional
quality than women in the control group
who received a placebo.
Enjoy an herbal workshop daily along with garden tours beginning at 11 a.m.
(with general admission to the Craft Village).
Herb Har vest Supper
October 2
Enjoy the foods and folkways of the British Isles in an educational setting. The
reception is hosted by the Herb Society of America’s Ozark Unit members who
also research and plan the menu. Reservations are required.

13
TREAT NEUROLOGICAL Herb Har vest Festival
DISEASE. Free radical dam- October 3 - 4
age has been linked to brain The herbal traditions of the British Isles and the Ozark Mountains will be
and nerve diseases. L. plantarum was the focus of the 2014 annual event which will feature nationally known and
shown to reduce chemicals linked with regional herbalists.
free radical damage—the same chemicals
that are elevated in many brain and nerve
disorders—by 37 percent, according to
researchers in Europe.

MICHELLE SCHOFFRO COOK, Ph.D., is the inter-

national best-selling author of 60 Seconds to
Slim and Weekend Wonder Detox, as well as the Cabin Reservations: 800-264-3655
upcoming book on the benefits of probiotics,
Info: 870-269-3851 • OzarkFolkCenter.com
The Probiotic Miracle. Visit drmichellecook.com
to learn more about her work.
WorldMags.net
Circle #31; see card pg 72
 HEALTH NATURAL REMEDIES
WorldMags.net
Embarrassed to Ask?
Natural Remedies for Your
Personal Ailments
Do you suffer from personal ailments you’re too uncomfortable to ask about?
Learn how to treat embarrassing conditions from bad breath and warts
to hair loss and bladder infections.
LET’S FACE IT. There are a lot of things that can go wrong with
our bodies that are, quite frankly, embarrassing to talk about
with others. Especially when you’re going out of your way to
look for natural, home remedies instead of simpler-to-find
over-the-counter solutions. Don’t worry, though; we’ve got you
covered—from warts and bad breath to hair loss and diarrhea,
read on to learn how to naturally treat some of life’s most embar-
rassing conditions. We always recommend discussing new rem-
edies with your health-care provider before implementing them.
Include a full list of any medications and supplements or other
remedies you are currently using, as there may be potential
interactions between them.
34 motherearthliving.com WorldMags.net
B A N I S H B A D B R E AT H
We’ve all caught ourselves with bad breath at the most inop-
portune time. Bad breath is embarrassing, but it can be avoided
with proper oral care. If you are a longtime sufferer, evaluate
what you’re eating. Foods rich in vitamin C may help prevent
gum disease and gingivitis—two well-known causes of bad
breath. Snack on berries, citrus fruits and melons to create an
inhospitable environment for bacteria growth.
Bad breath is also caused by sugar-thriving bacteria, so you
might benefit from antibacterial herbs more than candy mints.
Time-tested herbal breath fresheners include parsley, anise, cori-
ander, spearmint, cloves and, of course, mint. To make your own
herbal mouthwash using any of these herbs, take several ounces
of fresh or dried herbs, place them in a wide-mouthed jar with a
lid, and fill the jar with vodka. Steep for a few days, then strain.
B E AT Y E A S T I N F E C T I O N S
Our bodies play host to a number of fungi. Under normal
circumstances, the good bacteria living in our bodies help keep
these fungi under control. But change the pH balance of the
body and these fungi can grow unchecked. Yeast infections are
a manifestation of this problem. By far the most common mani-
festation, a vaginal yeast infection can cause burning, itching
and soreness along with a thick, sticky discharge.
Yeast grows best in warm, moist conditions with little oxy-
gen. Always dry the vaginal area after bathing or showering and
wear cotton underwear and loose clothes to keep the area dry.
You should also avoid heavily scented feminine products as they
can irritate the vagina and upset the pH balance. Yeast infections
can be sexually transmitted, so avoid intercourse until the yeast
infection clears up as it can get passed back and forth. (Yes, men
can get yeast infections, too!)
The fungus that causes vaginal yeast infections feeds on sugar
and yeast. Avoid foods containing these substances (especially
alcohol) during the initial phase of treatment. Instead, consume
foods known to support detoxification such as onions, spirulina
and wheatgrass. Oregano oil and garlic are two antiviral herbs
that may help your body fight off a yeast infection. Take 100 to
150 mg of oregano oil three to four times daily or 300 to 600
 WorldMags.net
mg of garlic twice daily. Garlic can thin
the blood, so avoid it if you take blood-
thinning medications or if you’ve recently
had or will have surgery. It may also not
be recommended for those with thyroid
problems or ulcers.
For topical skin-related yeast infec-
tions, turn to tea tree oil, a natural anti-
bacterial and antiviral. Undiluted, the oil
can cause burning and irritation, so first
mix 5 to 15 drops with water for direct
application, then rinse the area.
You should also pump up on probiot-
ics, as these good bacteria can restore
balance to the body and fight excessive
growth of yeast infection-causing fungi.
Probiotics can be taken as a supplement
or found in a number of foods, such
as yogurt, kimchi, kefir and sauerkraut.
Read more about probiotics on page 31.

WA R D O F F WA R T S
Unsightly and occasionally painful,
warts can be one of the trickiest ailments Circle #32; see card pg 72

to treat. Warts result from one of many

strains of human papillomavirus (HPV);
they can spread through direct contact
and indirectly via items used by some- Does Your Deodorant
one with the virus. Children, whose
immune systems are still developing,
typically experience more warts than
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The best way to dispel them is with
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antiviral, immune-boosting remedies. Crystal Stick lasts a year of every day use.
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antiviral properties. Apply one drop of Get $1 off coupon by visiting www.thecrystal.com/MEL
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Tea tree oil is powerful stuff, so unless Find Crystal Body Deodorant® at:
you’re using it on the bottom of your feet
(where skin is thicker), dilute with water
or oil, or apply with a cotton ball. You
can also take olive leaf, which has antivi-
ral properties (take 500 mg twice daily),
or vitamin E, a natural immune- and
skin-booster (take 400 IU daily).
Circle #42; see card pg 72

WorldMags.net Mother Earth Living May/June 2014 35

 WorldMags.netHEALTH NATURAL REMEDIES
&
To combat digestive distress, try juices and tea made with ginger.
B AT T L E B L A D D E R I N F E C T I O N S
Although men also suffer from uri-
nary tract infections, 90 percent of those
affected are women—and the symp-
toms are no walk in the park. When
the bladder gets infected, its lining
becomes inflamed, creating the feeling
of an urgent and constant need to pee.
Urination is accompanied by pain and
burning, and often the bladder doesn’t
completely empty, so the person feels an
increased urge to urinate.
E. coli bacteria are the most com-
mon cause of bladder infections, and
they can get there a number of ways.
Using certain forms of birth control,
such as spermicides or an improperly
fitted diaphragm, can increase the risk
of contracting a bladder infection, as
well as taking antibiotics. Women with
bladder infections often are prescribed
antibiotics, but because antibiotics kill
©2014 Domino Foods, Inc.
off both good and bad bacteria in the
body, they can inhibit the body’s natural
means of staving off infection.
You may be able to bypass antibiot-
ics with alternative bladder infection
treatments, particularly in prevention.
Cranberry juice is a well-known home
remedy for bladder infections. Studies
have shown unsweetened cranberry
dominosugar.com/light juice to prevent bacteria from latching
chsugar.com/light onto bladder walls and starting an infec-
tion. Drink at least 3 ounces daily or take
400 to 500 mg of cranberry extract twice
daily to prevent a bladder infection. If
36 motherearthliving.com WorldMags.net
you already have an infection, drink two
to three glasses of unsweetened juice a
day. (If you have an aspirin allergy, avoid
large quantities of cranberry juice. Be
cautious with cranberry juice or supple-
ments if you are taking warfarin, also
known as Coumadin, as the cranberry
juice or supplements may increase how
long the warfarin is in your body.)
To enhance immune function and
fight off an existing infection, try vita-
min C. This vitamin acidifies urine and
inhibits the growth of bacteria in much
the same way as cranberry juice. Take
500 to 1,000 mg one to two times daily.
Oregano oil also has antibacterial and
antiviral properties that may help fight
infection. Boost immune function by
also taking it in capsule form, 100 to 150
mg three to four times daily. Don’t use
oregano oil if you’re pregnant or nursing
or if you’re taking blood thinners.
If you’re taking antibiotics for a blad-
der infection, you can reduce your chance
of a repeat infection by supplementing
your diet with probiotic-rich foods to
prevent harmful bacteria from growing.
D I S CO U R AG E D I A R R H E A
Another unglamorous topic, diarrhea
can be the result of the digestive system
trying to expel a toxin or a reaction to
a food the body has trouble digesting.
Unfortunately, this can leave us feel-
ing rather, well, poopy. While it may
be tempting to take over-the-counter
 WorldMags.net
medication, suppressing our bodies’
natural elimination system forces it to
find another way to remove the toxin.
Often, letting our bodies work naturally
is the best and fastest way to recovery.
Symptoms usually run their course
over a day or two. During that time, avoid
hard-to-digest foods to help your system
flush the toxin faster. Try liquid food such
as broth and watered-down fruit and veg-
etable juices; easy-to-digest rice, noodles,
soda crackers and cooked low-fiber veg-
etables; and apples, bananas, carrots and
potatoes, all of which contain pectin, a
gentle binding agent. Avoid dairy prod-
ucts as these are harder on the intestines.
Likewise, avoid sugar, which can increase
diarrhea, and high-fiber foods.
Ginger is beneficial for almost all
digestive issues, including diarrhea, and
it can calm inflammation in the intes-
tines. Drink a cup of ginger tea, take up
to 500 mg in capsule form or take 2 mL
of tincture every two hours. Don’t exceed
4,000 mg per day. Studies have found
probiotics effective at providing diar-
rhea relief, especially when diarrhea is
antibiotic-related. Probiotics also protect
intestinal cells from E. coli and prevent
the bacteria from invading the body.
H A LT H A I R LO S S
More than half of men and women
in the U.S. experience rapid hair loss,
generally by the time they hit their 50s.
It can result from a number of factors,
including circulation, stress, hormonal
changes, nutrition and—most potent
and toughest to combat—genetics. If
you start to notice thinning or receding
hair, chances are you’re seeing the first
signs of genetic pattern baldness.
RE SOU R C ES
Boiron EuroPharma
boironusa.com europharma
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Gut Soothe
derma e
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Wart Control
Natural treatments for hair loss
often combine a variety of approaches
that support and enhance each other.
Prevention is the best treatment—
once hair follicles die, it’s impossible
to revive them. Saw palmetto, pygeum,
horsetail, corn silk and licorice are
among the herbs naturopathic phy-
sicians use to slow down hormonal
effects. Saw palmetto is one of the
most historically prescribed herbs for
hair loss. Constituents in the herb dis-
rupt the formation of dihydrotestoster-
one (DHT) from testosterone, a likely
contributor to male pattern baldness.
Historically this herb was used to treat
hair loss in both men and women, but
recent research suggests it may only be
effective for men with mild to moderate
baldness. Take 320 to 400 mg daily of
an 85 percent liposterolic extract.
Vitamins, minerals and amino acids
are also a critical part of having healthy
hair and keeping it. Try the essential
fatty acid gamma-linolenic acid (GLA)
in the form of black currant oil or eve-
ning primrose oil (500 mg twice a day),
or B vitamins—specifically biotin and
B6 (2,000 to 3,000 mcg daily).
Certain foods may exacerbate hair
loss. Saturated fats, for example, are pro-
inflammatory, so bypass the burgers
and fries. For some people, allergies to
dairy or animal products cause inflam-
mation and hair loss. And megadoses of
vitamin A (as well as drugs derived from
vitamin A, such as those for acne) also
can be problematic. Eat varied, well-
rounded meals made from basic foods
and include plenty of whole grains, veg-
etables and quality proteins such as
beans, nuts, fish and lean poultry.
Gaia Herbs NOW Foods
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Hair, Skin & Cranberry Mannose
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Nature’s Gate Tom’s of Maine
natures-gate.com tomsofmaine.com
Biotin Strengthening Wicked Fresh!
Shampoo Mouthwash
WorldMags.net Circle #25; see card pg 72
 HEALTH IN SEASON
WorldMags.net

Under the Sun

Protect your skin from damaging UV rays—
as well as exposure to the toxic chemicals
found in most sunscreens—by increasing
your sunscreen smarts.
MILLIONS OF AMERICANS depend on sunscreen. Protecting
our skin from harmful ultraviolet rays is important—UV
light can cause skin cancer and prematurely age the skin.
Yet, beyond the knowledge that sunscreens can prevent
sunburns, for many years little has been known about their
safety and efficacy. As researchers have looked at sunscreens
more closely, some concerning information has come to
light—leaving many of us utterly confused about how to best
protect our health. Fortunately, we’re beginning to under-
stand more about which sunscreen ingredients are safe, and
with a little education we can feel good about what we’re
Sunscreen Shopping Tips
O Avoid sunscreens with vitamin A—generally listed
putting on our family’s skin.
as “retinyl palmitate” or “retinol” on labels. It may
speed up the development of cancer on skin
T H E S U N S C R E E N FAC T S
exposed to sunlight.
Ultimately, a little sun is good for us—a complete lack
of sun exposure can lead to a deficiency in vitamin D. We O Avoid sunscreens that contain oxybenzone. Found
should all aim to absorb about 20 minutes of sun each day. in 80 percent of chemical sunscreens, oxybenzone
Yet at the same time, we need sunscreen to protect ourselves can penetrate the skin, causing allergic skin reac-
from the potentially harmful effects of overexposure. tions and disrupting hormones.
Unfortunately, some of the most popular sunscreens
O Skip sunscreens with insect repellent. While
on the market may not be as effective as we’d like and may
sunscreens should be applied liberally, repellents
even be harmful. Scientific evidence shows that some sun-
should not.
screens only protect against UVB radiation rather than the
more harmful UVA. What’s worse, many conventional sun- O Opt for creams instead of sprays and powders,
screens have been found to contain potential carcinogens which can emit tiny particles that may not be safe
including oxybenzone, benzophenone and retinyl palmi- to breathe in.
tate. Research shows some of these sunscreen ingredients
O Beware of sunscreens with SPFs higher than 50.
may actually promote skin cancer growth and free radical
Many researchers suspect SPFs higher than 50 do
cell production in the body—some experts caution that
not provide additional protection, creating a false
exposure to these toxic ingredients may completely erode
sense of security.
the benefits of sunscreen.
Armed with this knowledge, it’s wise to seek out sun- O Look for mineral-based natural sunscreen with
screens that are safest for our skin instead of just buying zinc and titanium dioxide listed as active ingre-
whatever is cheapest at the local drugstore. To learn how to dients, usually in the form of nanoparticles. The
choose the best sunscreens, read “Sunscreen Shopping Tips” Environmental Working Group favors these two
at right or visit ewg.org/2013sunscreen. Or if you wish to ingredients for their superior UVA protection—
take matters into your own hands, you can make your own while no ingredient is completely effective or with-
sunscreen at home using the recipe on page 39. The basic out hazard, these ingredients have shown less than
ingredients should be available at your local health-food .01 percent or no skin penetration and are stable in
store; all you need to do is mix it up! the presence of sunlight.
—GINA DEBACKER

38 motherearthliving.com WorldMags.net
 WorldMags.net HEALTH IN SEASON

Sunscreen Savvy
Try these editor-recommended prod-
ucts, which are also recommended in
the Environmental Working Group’s
2013 Sunscreen Guide.

S U N N Y FAC E S
A little goes a long way
with this Sunny Face
Natural Sunscreen,
SPF 30, from Goddess
Garden Organics, made
with nourishing aloe
and sunflower oil. $18,
goddessgarden.com

L AV E N D E R
BADGER
Lightly scented with
organic lavender,
this Broad Spectrum Make Your Own Sunscreen
Sunscreen Cream, Although it’s somewhat waterproof, this sunscreen should be reapplied after sweating
SPF 30, from Badger is or swimming. To tailor this sunscreen to your needs, make simple adjustments: For
super moisturizing example, you can add more beeswax to make it thicker, or less to make it smoother.
and safe. $16,
This recipe has an SPF of about 20; add more zinc oxide to increase the SPF. Make sure
badgerbalm.com
not to inhale the zinc oxide (you might consider wearing a mask when making this
product). Don’t use citrus essential oils, as some can increase UV damage.

CO CO N U T C R E A M 1
⁄2 cup almond oil or olive oil
Indulge in the subtle 1
⁄4 cup coconut oil (natural SPF 4)
scent and healing ben-
efits of coconut with
1
⁄4 cup beeswax
the Broad Spectrum 1 teaspoon vitamin E oil, optional
Sunscreen, SPF 30, 2 tablespoons shea butter (natural SPF 4 to 5), optional
from True Natural. 2 tablespoons zinc oxide powder (choose a non-nano version, which won’t be
$20, truenatural.com
absorbed into the skin)
15 drops essential oil for fragrance, optional (for example, coconut extract, vanilla
extract or lavender essential oil; don’t use citrus oils)
K I S S YO U R K I D S
Protect the little ones 1. Combine all ingredients except zinc oxide and optional essential oil in a pint-sized (or
in your family with the
larger) glass jar. I have a Mason jar I keep just for making lotions.
gentle, water-resistant
Obsessively Natural 2. Heat a couple inches of water in a saucepan over medium heat.
Kids Natural Mineral 3. Loosely put the lid on the Mason jar and place it in the saucepan with water. As the
Sunscreen, SPF 30, water heats, the ingredients in the jar will melt. Shake or stir occasionally to incorporate.
from Kiss My Face. 4. When ingredients are completely melted, add zinc oxide, stirring well.
$15, kissmyface.com
5. Remove from heat and mix in essential oil. Pour mixture into whatever jar or tin you
will use for storage. Pint-size Mason jars are great for this. This mixture is thick, so it will
not pump well in a lotion pump. Stir a few times as it cools to make sure zinc oxide is
DOLPHIN SWIM well-incorporated.
Use this Mineral 6. To use: Apply as you would regular sunscreen. Store it in a cool, dry place or in the
Sunscreen, SPF 32,
refrigerator, and use within six months.
from Dolphin Organics
for everyday use. It’s
easy to apply and S P E E DY V E R S I O N : Get a bottle of your favorite lotion that doesn’t contain citrus oils,
fragrance-free. $20, add a couple of tablespoons of zinc oxide, mix well and use as sunscreen.
dolphinorganics.com —Recipe courtesy Katie the Wellness Mama, wellnessmama.com

WorldMags.net Mother Earth Living May/June 2014 39

 WorldMags.net
Our products are sweet.
K nowing where
we come from
makes us sweeter.

®
When you sweeten with F lorida Crystals,
you know it’s something good.
We grow.
We harvest.
We conserve.
©2014 Domino Foods, Inc.

We sustain.
You enjoy.
Learn about our sustainability and conservation efforts
that start at our farm and continue in your kitchen.
We’re more than Sweet, and together, we do good.

Earth Friendly, Uniquely Delicious.

floridacrystals.com
WorldMags.net
 WorldMags.net FOOD EAT SMART

The Wonders of Coconut Oil

This powerhouse tropical fruit can improve our health in many ways—
from reducing inflammation to burning fat more efficiently.
BY B R U C E F I F E

RICH IN FIBER, VITAMINS AND MINERALS, COCONUTS ARE incredibly nutritious. These tree nuts provide
healthy meat, juice, milk and oil that have fed and nourished people around the world for thousands of years.
Nearly a third of the world’s population depends on coconut to some degree. On many islands, coconut is such
an important staple that it provides the majority of the food eaten there.

WorldMags.net Mother Earth Living May/June 2014 41

FOOD EAT SMART
WorldMags.net
Coconut palms grow in India, Hawaii, Florida, Australia, Bermuda, Sri Lanka
and parts of the Middle East, and each tree produces 30 to 75 fruits a year.
In traditional medicine around the world, coconut is used
to treat a wide variety of health problems ranging from skin
infections and burns to asthma, bronchitis, fever, flu and more.
Coconut oil is of special interest because it possesses healing
properties potentially beyond that of any other dietary oil, and
is used extensively in traditional medicine among Asian and
Pacific populations. Many Pacific Islanders consider coconut
oil to be the cure for all illness. The coconut palm is so highly
valued by them as a source of food and medicine that it is called
“the tree of life.” Wherever the coconut palm grows, the people
there have learned of its importance as an effective medicine.
Only recently has modern medical science unlocked some of the
secrets to coconut’s healing properties.
CO CO N U T I N M O D E R N M E D I C I N E
Modern medical science is now confirming the use of coco-
nut in treating many conditions. Published studies in medical
journals show that coconut may provide a wide range of health
benefits. Some of these are summarized here:
O Kills viruses that cause influenza, herpes and other illnesses.
O Kills bacteria that cause ulcers, throat infections, urinary
tract infections, gum disease, cavities and other diseases.
web To read more about the many studies regarding the health uses of coconut, including
extras those mentioned in this article, visit motherearthliving.com/coconut-research.
WorldMags.net
In traditional medicine,
coconut is used to treat health
problems ranging from
burns to bronchitis.
O Kills fungi and yeasts that cause candidiasis, ringworm,
athlete’s foot, thrush, diaper rash and other infections.
O Expels or kills tapeworms, lice, giardia and other parasites.
O Boosts energy and endurance, helping enhance physical and
athletic performance.
O Improves digestion and absorption of other nutrients
including vitamins, minerals and amino acids.
O Helps relieve symptoms and reduce health risks associated
with diabetes.
O Improves calcium and magnesium absorption and supports
the development of strong bones and teeth.
O Helps relieve symptoms associated with gallbladder disease.
O Relieves symptoms associated with Crohn’s disease,
ulcerative colitis and stomach ulcers.
O Improves digestion and bowel function.
O Reduces inflammation.
O Supports tissue healing and repair.
O Supports and aids immune system function.
O Is heart-healthy; improves cholesterol ratio, which reduces
risk of heart disease.
O Functions as an antioxidant, helping protect the body from
harmful free radicals that promote premature aging and
degenerative disease.
O Does not deplete the body’s antioxidant reserves as other
oils can do.
O Improves the body’s use of essential fatty acids and protects
them from oxidation.
O Is lower in calories than all other fats.
O Supports thyroid function.
O Promotes loss of excess weight by increasing metabolic rate.
O Applied topically, helps form a chemical barrier on the skin
to ward off infection.
O Reduces symptoms of psoriasis, eczema and dermatitis.
O Softens skin and helps relieve dryness and flaking.
O Prevents wrinkles, sagging skin and age spots.
O Promotes healthy-looking hair and complexion.
O Provides protection from damaging effects of ultraviolet
radiation from the sun.
O Does not form harmful byproducts when heated to normal
cooking temperature like other vegetable oils do. >>
 WorldMags.net FOOD EAT SMART

Whole-Wheat Coconut Brownies

This recipe makes 16 brownies, each containing half a
tablespoon of coconut oil.

½ cup melted coconut oil ½ teaspoon baking powder

2 eggs ¼ teaspoon salt
1 cup sugar or coconut sugar ½ cup pecans, chopped
1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 cup shredded or
¾ cup whole-wheat flour flaked coconut
1
⁄3 cup cocoa powder

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

2. Blend coconut oil (not hot) and eggs together.
3. Mix in sugar and vanilla and set aside.
4. In a separate bowl, mix together flour, cocoa, baking powder
and salt.
5. Mix wet and dry ingredients together. Stir in pecans and coconut.
6. Pour batter into a greased 8-by-8-by-2-inch baking dish.
Bake for 30 to 35 minutes.
7. Cool to room temperature and cut into 16 squares.

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WorldMags.net Mother Earth Living May/June 2014 43

 WorldMags.net
Now a little quinoa goes a long way.

quinoa
quin

plump raisins

zesty cinnamon

New!

NEW Kashi Organic Promise Raisin Vineyard has

quinoa, which along with other delicious ingredients,
s,
helps make it a tasty bowl of goodness. So you can
chart a course of positive eating, no matter where
the day takes you.

®, TM, © 2014 Kashi Company

WorldMags.net
 WorldMags.net FOOD EAT SMART

3 Ways to Benefit from Coconut Oil

Coconut oil can effectively replace a number of products in your
kitchen and bathroom.
get nutrition rolling.

1
EAT IT. Unrefined, virgin, organic coconut oil can be used in place
of many other fats. Stir some into your oatmeal. Replace the oil in
a pan of brownies. Try a coconut oil pie crust. Refined coconut oil
has a higher smoke point than unrefined, making it a better choice
for frying. Unfortunately, some of the health benefits are then lost.

2
USE AS A CONDITIONING TREATMENT FOR YOUR HAIR. Rub the
oil through your hair and let it soak in for a while before rinsing it
out in the shower.

3
USE AS A MOISTURIZER FOR YOUR BODY. Coconut oil is good
for your whole body, including your face and the delicate skin
underneath your eyes.

CO CO N U T O I L I S D I F F E R E N T
While coconut possesses many health benefits thanks to its fiber and nutritional
content, it’s the oil that makes it a remarkable food and medicine. Once believed to be
unhealthy because of its high saturated fat content, it is now known that (a) saturated
fats aren’t necessarily problematic, and (b) the types of fatty acids in coconut oil are
unique and possess many health-promoting properties. (To learn more about dietary
fats, visit motherearthliving.com/healthy-fats.)
What makes coconut oil different from other fats? The difference is in the fat mol-
ecule. All fats are composed of molecules called fatty acids. There are two methods of
classifying fatty acids: The first is based on saturation—saturated, monounsaturated
and polyunsaturated fats. Another system of classification is based on molecular size
New!
or length of the carbon chain within each fatty acid. In this system, you have short-
chain fatty acids (SCFAs), medium-chain fatty acids (MCFAs) and long-chain fatty
acids (LCFAs). Coconut oil is composed predominantly of MCFAs, also known as
medium-chain triglycerides, as well as some SCFAs.
The vast majority—98 to 100 percent—of fats in our diets, saturated or unsatu-
rated, from animals or plants, are composed of LCFAs. Both the saturated and
unsaturated fat found in meat, milk, eggs and plants (including most vegetable oils)
are composed of LCFAs. The size of the fatty acid is important, because our bodies
metabolize each fatty acid differently depending on its size. LCFAs, if not used imme-
diately as an energy source, are stored as fat tissue in our bodies. Most of the fat cells









in your body are composed of LCFAs.

Coconut oil, composed primarily of MCFAs, has a different effect on the body.
These fatty acids are absorbed more efficiently in our GI tracts, and are broken down
and used predominantly for energy production and thus seldom end up as body fat.
In essence, they produce energy, not fat. MCFAs do not negatively affect cholesterol
and help protect against atherosclerosis and heart disease. There are very few good
dietary sources of MCFAs. By far the best sources are coconut and palm kernel oils.

BRUCE FIFE is a naturopathic doctor, the author of The Coconut Oil Miracle (Avery, 2013) and
founder of the online Coconut Research Center, coconutresearchcenter.org.
WorldMags.net Mother Earth Living May/June 2014 45
 FOOD HEALTH
WorldMags.net

Food & Mood

New research into the links between
diet and depression yields good
advice for happier eating.
DID YOU KNOW that how we eat can have long-term effects
on how we feel? When having a bad day, it’s easy to turn
to junk food for comfort, but the evidence suggests that
we feel better when sticking to a long-term plan of healthy
eating. In fact, doing so can decrease the risk of developing
clinical depression.
New evidence for this idea comes from a recent study
published in the journal Brain, Behavior, and Immunity,
which found correlations between an inflammatory diet
pattern and a higher risk of depression—up to 41 percent!
It’s good news that dietary changes could help prevent
depression because this health issue affects millions of
people: one in 10 U.S. adults, according to the Centers for
Disease Control and Prevention. The numbers are even
higher for women. Some estimates place a woman’s lifetime
risk for experiencing depression as high as one in five.
According to this study, people benefit from eating
more foods that prevent inflammation (such as olive oil),
and fewer foods that cause it (such as white flour). For a
complete list of these foods, see the two lists to the right.

W H Y A N A N T I - I N F L A M M ATO R Y D I E T ?
If you haven’t heard much yet about inflammation as a
health problem, that’s probably about to change (in fact, we
are addressing this major health concern in our next issue).
Recent research has linked chronic, low-level inflammation
to a wide variety of health problems including not only
depression, but also heart disease, stroke, diabetes, cancer
and more.
This type of inflammation is caused by our immune sys-
tems reacting to various stresses; while some inflammation
helps the body fight disease, excessive inflammation can
cause problems, and a poor diet contributes to the problem.
Not surprisingly, there’s now a growing amount of infor-
mation being published about anti-inflammatory diets. Go
online and you can read about it from sources as various
as Dr. Weil, WebMD and the Mayo Clinic. There’s even an
Anti-Inflammation Diet for Dummies book.
But this isn’t just another trendy diet. One reason this
recent study is worthy of our attention is that it’s rooted in
some very solid science.
Anti-Inflammatory Foods
A recent study by scientists at the Harvard School of Public
Health found these foods best for warding off depression.
OLIVE OIL AND WINE: Both are shown to help prevent
inflammation and are associated with a healthy diet when
used in moderation. For wine, it’s likely that both the alco-
hol and other compounds have a positive effect.
LEAFY GREENS AND YELLOW VEGETABLES: Not all veg-
etables are specifically anti-inflammatory, but these two
categories are. Leafy greens include lettuce and spinach;
the “yellow vegetable” category includes carrots, winter
squash and yams.
COFFEE: This study didn’t break out decaf and caffeinated
coffee, but previous studies suggest that it’s only coffee
with caffeine that provides benefits.

46 motherearthliving.com WorldMags.net
 WorldMags.net


FOOD HEALTH

 

Foods that Trigger Inflammation

The same study found these foods most likely to trigger inflammation,
leading to an increased risk of depression.

MARGARINE: Most brands used to (and some still do) contain trans
 
   

fats, which, among other serious problems, promote inflammation. 
 

   

     
REFINED GRAINS: This category includes all kinds of foods made from
 

  
white flour: white bread, English muffins, bagels, rolls, muffins and  
 



biscuits; white rice and pasta; and pancakes and waffles. Nutritionists 
 
 

recommend whole grains as healthier options.

RED MEAT: This is a major source of omega 6 fats in our diets. (Many
experts recommend leaner cuts, including pastured products, as
healthier options, but that was not broken down in this study.)




SOFT DRINKS: Both sugar-sweetened and diet soft drinks are linked to
inflammation. Other reasons to avoid sugary beverages: They’re linked 



to diabetes, heart disease and obesity. Diet soft drinks may also play a 

role in obesity, although the research is mixed. 








LO O K I N G AT T H E B I G P I C T U R E
This research is particularly valuable because, unlike many other nutritional  
!

" 
studies, it analyzes real people’s overall eating habits rather than trying to draw con-
 

clusions from chemicals present in individual foods, says Michel Lucas, lead author
of the study and a visiting scientist at the Harvard School of Public Health. “The
biggest mistake in nutrition is that we’re talking about nutrients instead of talking
about food,” he says. “We don’t eat one nutrient a day; we don’t eat one food a day.
Different foods correlate together.”
Another reason to pay attention is that this research comes out of a huge,
long-running health study. It’s not just a handful of people being analyzed for a
few weeks; this research is based on information from more than 40,000 women
over 12 years. The data comes from the Nurses’ Health Study, a highly respected
ongoing study supported by Harvard Medical School and the Harvard School of
Public Health.
So is an anti-inflammatory diet where it’s at? Should we all start following  #$ % $  &$'
the diet outlined by this study? It’s rare that any one piece of research tells us as   ( )($
much as we’d like to know about what to eat. The good news is that if you’d like
$ *++,

a little more context for this study, you can easily find it online: For much more
about research coming out of the Nurses’ Health Study, visit www.channing.

   
harvard.edu/nhs. You can also find boiled-down nutrition guidelines from the  

Harvard School of Public Health at hsph.harvard.edu/nutritionsource/healthy-
eating-plate. 


Altogether, there’s a lot of solid advice for food choices that can increase your
overall health and sense of well-being. Don’t you feel better already?
—MEGAN E. PHELPS

WorldMags.net
Circle #15; see card pg 72
 FOOD TRY THIS
WorldMags.net

Better than Bottled

Enjoy the fresher, naturally sweetened, preservative-free flavors
of homemade ketchup, mustard, mayo and relish.
MOST OF THE CONDIMENTS in the grocery store contain stabilizers, textur- K E TC H U P
izers, preservatives and refined sweeteners (usually high-fructose corn syrup). Cooking tomatoes down into ketchup
That’s reason enough to make your own summer pantry staples. Reason No. takes a long time, but it’s worth it to
2? It’s surprisingly delightful to watch actual, real, recognizable foods such as capture that summer tomato flavor. If
tomatoes, cucumbers and eggs morph into luscious sauces worthy of your best you need to make ketchup in winter,
summer barbecues. you can start with tomato paste instead.
While you’re going to the trouble,
consider making extra to freeze. It’ll last
at least six months in the freezer. After
thawing, stir well to reconstitute. If you
don’t have all these spices, improvise. It’s
easy to adapt this recipe into your own.

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 medium onion, finely diced
2 to 3 cloves garlic, minced
1
⁄2-inch stick cinnamon
1 star anise
4 cloves
1 teaspoon cumin seeds, crushed
slightly with a mortar and pestle
or the back of a big knife
1 tablespoon coriander seeds,
crushed slightly
1
⁄2 teaspoon mustard seeds,
crushed slightly
4 pounds ripe tomatoes, peeled, seeded,
cored and roughly chopped; blanch-
ing makes tomatoes easy to peel
(or substitute 1 cup tomato paste)
Several twists freshly ground
black pepper
1 teaspoon sweet paprika
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon celery salt
1 tablespoon chili powder
2 teaspoons fish sauce
1
⁄4 cup apple cider vinegar or white wine
vinegar (Sherry vinegar makes an
interesting ketchup, too.)
1 tablespoon honey
Making homemade ketchup is simple,
but it does take time. Consider
1 . In a large, deep, heavy-bottomed pan,
making extra to freeze—it will last up
to six months in the freezer. heat oil over medium heat. Sauté onion
until soft, about 3 minutes. Add garlic and

48 motherearthliving.com WorldMags.net
 WorldMags.net FOOD TRY THIS

sauté another 2 minutes. Stir to prevent

garlic from burning.
2. While onions and garlic are sautéing,
tie cinnamon, star anise, cloves, cumin,
coriander and mustard into a spice sash
using a tea ball, tea or spice bag, or B E E R M U S TA R D
cheesecloth and string. For different effects, substitute dry
3. Add remaining ingredients, white wine for the beer, salt for the
including spice bag, and simmer over
medium-low heat for 45 minutes to an
fish sauce, lime or lemon juice for the
vinegar, and double or even triple the 


hour, until thickened into ketchup honey. To spice it up, add cayenne or
consistency. Stir occasionally. (If using
tomato paste, simmer for only about
finely diced jalapeño. 



20 minutes.) ⁄4 cup brown or yellow mustard seeds,



3

4. When ketchup has thickened signifi- or a mix

cantly, taste and adjust seasonings. 1
⁄3 cup beer (brown ale, porter or stout)
Strain out spice bag. For a smooth
consistency, use a blender, immersion
1
⁄2 cup white wine vinegar
2 cloves garlic, minced
blender or food mill to purée ketchup.
Makes about 2 cups, depending on
consistency of tomatoes.


1 tablespoon fish sauce
1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
1. In a bowl with a lid, stir together all
ingredients. Set aside on your kitchen
counter for a couple of days, or in the
fridge for a few days. Forget about it
for a while.
2. When you remember it’s there, pour
everything into a food processor and
purée until smooth. Use immediately
and for the next several months.
Makes about 1½ cups. >>

Amalgamators 101
Onions, coriander and fish sauce are all amalgamators—they help other
flavors come together. Coriander is one of only seven “amalgamating”
spices in Ian Hemphill’s The Spice Bible, which features nearly 100 spices.
(If you accidentally overseason something, you might be able to bring it back
into balance by adding coriander.) Onions behave similarly, unifying flavors,
especially contrasts of sweet, savory and spicy. Fish sauce provides the salti-
ness tomatoes love, but also injects an allover savoriness. Although the salty,
fermented sauce smells like fish, it doesn’t end up tasting or smelling like it.

CO CO N U T B L I S S.CO M
WorldMags.net Circle #10; see card pg 72
 WorldMags.net
Organically FOOD TRY THIS
Grown...
Cooperatively
Owned!
CO CO N U T O I L M AYO N N A I S E
Because coconut oil solidifies at room
temperature, you’ll need to warm the
mayo slightly to reconstitute it after
refrigeration. To learn about the health
benefits of coconut oil, see page 41.
Pinch kosher salt





















1 cup coconut oil, melted (not hot),


SWEET PICKLE RELISH
This is great for imperfect cucumbers
that can often be had for a steal
from farmers markets—just cut out
the bad spots.
1 medium onion, diced
1 medium sweet bell pepper, diced
Several twists freshly ground
black pepper
2 tablespoons pickling salt or fish sauce
11⁄2 cups distilled white vinegar or apple
cider vinegar
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon coriander seeds
1 teaspoon brown or yellow
mustard seeds
1 teaspoon celery seeds
1 teaspoon dill seeds

 or mild-flavored olive oil



 

We are a cooperative bakery,
all of our employees share in
the vision and profits of our
company. We bake truely
nutritious & delicious bread
baked with 100% whole grains.
We have never and will never
use GMO’s in our Organic
products. Thanks for trying our
bread!
11⁄2 pounds pickling cucumbers,
1 egg yolk
1 tablespoon lemon juice or
distilled white vinegar
1
⁄2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
Fresh herbs, chopped garlic,
hot sauce and/or white pepper,
to taste (optional)
1. To begin making the emulsion, whisk
or process (in a blender or food proces-
sor) the salt and about a tablespoon of
the oil into the egg yolk.
2. When the mixture begins to thicken,
add lemon juice and mustard.
3. Then begin adding oil, at first a drop
at a time, then a teaspoon at a time,
whisking or processing constantly, in
order to achieve a creamy consistency.
Stir in optional flavorings.
Makes about 1 cup.
seeded and diced
1
⁄4 cup honey or sugar (Honey imparts
its own flavor.)
1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
1 . In a medium saucepan, combine
onion, peppers, salt, vinegar, garlic and
seeds. Boil for 10 minutes, or until liquid
is reduced by half.
2 . Add cucumbers and honey. Boil
another 10 minutes.
3 . Stir in fresh dill. Before serving, allow
at least an hour for flavors to mingle.
4 . Refrigerate for up to 1 month.
Makes about 3 cups.
—TABITHA ALTERMAN

Note: Homemade mayonnaise is more

Please look for our
Sprouted Wheat Breads,
Bagels, Buns and Tortillas
at finer markets
everywhere.
alvaradostreetbakery.com
Circle #1; see card pg 72
luscious than store-bought versions that
contain stabilizers, but it will also tend to
separate, or “break,” in the refrigerator.
If necessary, re-emulsify the mayo by
stirring in a few droplets of water until
it’s creamy again.
WorldMags.net
 WorldMags.net

Circle #16; see card pg 72

Learn from the Mother Earth News

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WorldMags.net
WorldMags.net

Why
We Have Sugar Cravings
(and What to Do About Them)
WorldMags.net
 WorldMags.net
We’re evolutionarily predisposed to like the taste of sweet stuff,
but if your enjoyment has crossed the line to craving,
it might be time to work to create a healthier diet and lifestyle.

BY S T E P H A N I E S M A L L

Calling all cookie monsters

and candy junkies: If you struggle with sugar cravings,
you’re not alone. The desire for the taste of sweet is planning when you’ll eat it, being disappointed
natural, and common among humans. But if your or even angry if you don’t get it, and pleased,
enjoyment of the sweet taste has crossed the line satisfied or even a little high if you do. (And don’t
to craving, that indicates some sort of physiologi- forget alcohol, a very sugary substance, falls into
cal, nutritional, lifestyle or emotional imbalance is this category as well.)
occurring—and it’s worth investigating what the As a licensed clinical social worker and holis-
cause (or causes) might be. tic nutritionist, I help women transform their
relationship with food. I know that ending sugar
W E ’ R E B I O LO G I C A L LY P R O G R A M M E D cravings can be tricky because there are many
TO LO V E T H E TA S T E O F S W E E T potential causes, and it’s not usually as simple as
According to Traditional Chinese Medicine, “I don’t have enough willpower” or “I need to stick
five tastes exist: sweet, salty, sour, pungent and bit- to a certain diet.” If you’ve been fighting a losing
ter. The “sweet” taste corresponds to the energy of battle with what I call “the legal white powder,”
the earth, which is nurturing and maternal. (Does start by exploring these possible physiological,
that help explain why a bad day seems better after nutritional, emotional and lifestyle culprits—and
a few bites—or maybe a little more—of ice cream?) try my tips for kicking them to the curb.
And from an evolutionary standpoint, fruit—na-
ture’s candy—was a cruical part of our ancestors’
diet. “Our ancestors ate a lot of fruit when it was
available in the summer and fall, and thus became
prediabetic,” says Nori Hudson, a certified nutri-
tion consultant, professor at Bauman College of
Holistic Nutrition and owner of radiant-vitality.
com. “That was actually a good thing, because
they were about to enter a period of famine during
the winter. They’d go into their caves and use up
the energy they had stored from the sugar, which
protected their cells from freezing.”
Enjoying a sweet flavor, in and of itself, is no
problem. “Mother’s milk is sweet. Safe herbs are
sweet. Sweet is nature’s way of signaling that the
taste is safe. It also tells you that the food contains
energy,” Hudson says. However, if you’re battling
ongoing cravings, there’s something else going on.
When I talk about “craving,” I don’t mean look-
ing forward to a special dessert once in a while;
I mean thinking often about your next sugar fix,

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P H YS I O LO G I C A L C AU S E S O F S U G A R C R AV I N G S
Certain foods provoke addictive reactions. You’ve probably
experienced this. Notice how you never compulsively crave kale
or brown rice? If you’re good at listening to your body, you may
notice when it’s asking for them, but I find this type of slow,
healthy, nurturing request feels very different than the hectic,
sped-up feeling of a craving.
But sugar does elicit those addictive reactions. Here’s how:
Consuming refined sugar (and refined flour, and highly processed
foods in general) creates a number of problematic reactions in the
body. For instance, it can make our blood sugar erratic, resulting
in false hunger pangs. “The pancreas notices our higher blood
sugar, and secretes insulin in order to create homeostasis in the
blood sugar,” Hudson says. “It often overshoots the mark and
PHOTO BY KAREN K. WILL
secretes too much insulin, which ends up reducing the blood
sugar below a normal range. When that happens, it sets off an Lemon Poppy Seed Cake
alarm in the body to restabilize the blood sugar; that effectively In this tasty recipe reprinted from Grit maga-
turns on an appetite, which is actually unhealthy. We go for zine (grit.com), honey replaces white sugar for a
refined carbohydrates because it helps our body raise our blood healthier sweet treat. Visit motherearthliving.com/
sugar quickly. But these refined carbs go in too quickly, which re- healthy-baking for more healthy, delicious recipes.
creates a hypoglycemic cycle and keeps turning on hunger.”
In an effort to balance out these haywire reactions, our bodies 11⁄3 cups cake flour
actually release opioids and dopamine—neurotransmitters that 1
⁄2 teaspoon salt
bliss us out. (Narcotics work the same way.) The problem is that 1
⁄2 teaspoon baking soda
we are unaware of the havoc going on with our blood sugar—all 3 tablespoons poppy seeds
we’re aware of is that sweet high we’re getting. And that’s what we 3 tablespoons sweetened condensed milk
become conditioned to crave. 1 tablespoon plus 1 teaspoon freshly squeezed
Certain medical conditions also can trigger sugar cravings. lemon juice
Candida overgrowth is a common one. Candida, also known as 11⁄2 teaspoons finely grated lemon zest
yeast, inhabits the digestive tract. An overgrowth of candida can 1
⁄3 cup butter, softened
cause all kinds of physical and emotional problems, from recur- 3
⁄4 cup honey plus extra for optional garnish
rent yeast infections to mood swings. And yeast, as you may know 1 large egg plus 1 egg yolk
if you’re a fermenter, feeds on sugar. It’s a vicious cycle for those Confectioner’s sugar for dusting (optional)
suffering from candida overgrowth—you crave sugar, you give in
and binge on sugar, which just grows more of those little fungi 1 . Heat oven to 350 degrees. Butter and flour a
asking for more sugar. Other conditions that may cause sugar 9-inch round cake pan.
cravings include hormone imbalance or overtaxed adrenals. 2 . In a bowl, sift together flour, salt and baking
soda; stir in poppy seeds and set aside.
3 . In another bowl, combine sweetened condensed
Kick It to the Curb Tip milk, lemon juice and lemon zest; set aside.
There’s no sense telling ourselves, “I’m never going
4 . In a large bowl, beat butter with electric mixer.
to have sweets anymore,” or, “I’ll just have a piece of
Slowly add honey and continue beating. Add egg
fruit when a craving strikes.” That just leads to feeling
and yolk, and mix well.
deprived, which is likely to set off even more sugar
5 . Alternately add flour mixture and milk mixture to
intake. Instead, try forgoing refined white sugar and
butter mixture, beating after each addition.
experimenting with natural sweeteners such as stevia,
6 . Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for
honey or maple syrup. Natural sweeteners don’t create
30 minutes.
such harmful physiological reactions and often come
7 . Reduce oven temperature to 325 degrees and
packed with minerals and enzymes that support the
continue baking for an additional 10 to 15 minutes,
body’s cellular processes. Candida overgrowth and
or until toothpick inserted in center comes out clean.
other medical conditions can be diagnosed by a
8 . Cool completely in pan, then turn out onto
qualified naturopathic doctor, who can also provide
platter. With sieve, dust with confectioner’s sugar,
treatment protocol.
if desired. Serve drizzled with honey. Serves 8.

54 motherearthliving.com WorldMags.net
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N U T R I T I O N A L C AU S E S O F S U G A R C R AV I N G S
My clients are always surprised when I explain that there
are ways of eating that can trigger sugar cravings and ways
of eating that can mitigate sugar cravings. Some of the cor-
nerstones of a craving-free diet are pretty basic, but in our
hurried, hassled world many of us neglect to regularly inte-
grate them into our meals—and suffer the consequences as
a result. Here they are: regular meals, protein, fat, water and
high-quality food.
Low blood sugar is a recipe for sugar cravings. As we dis-
cussed earlier, when our blood sugar plummets, we tend to
seek candy bars and caramel lattes for a quick fix. In addition,
Yale researchers found that when glucose levels in the brain
drop, we experience more difficulty controlling our impulses.
Simply put, if you get hungry, you’re more likely to overeat.
When it comes to creating balanced blood sugar, protein and
regular meals are your best friends. Every single one of your
meals should contain protein, whether plant-based (such as
nuts, beans or legumes) or animal-based (such as chicken,
turkey, pork, beef or seafood).
I’ve been hearing the dying gasps of the fat-free dynasty, and
I, for one, am thrilled. More and more, people are cottoning
on to the fact that not only is fat yummy, but our bodies
require it to function properly. Simply put, a diet that is too
low in fat leaves us hungry. And when we’re hungry and have
low blood sugar, we’re likely to reach for things like cookies or
candy. So add fat to your meals and enjoy feeling satiated.
Water’s a hugely overlooked weapon for any ailment.
Without enough water, our detox and cellular processes just
don’t work as well. And dehydration can cause irritability,
sluggishness and…you guessed it…cravings. “It’s easy to mis-
take dehydration for hunger,” says Matt Reddy, a naturopathic
physician at Denver Sports Recovery in Colorado.
Finally, consuming high-quality, nutrient-dense food
has innumerable advantages, including mitigating sugar
urges. “People overeat when their bodies still need nutrients,
even though they have already met their requirements for
calories,” says Laura Knoff, a certified nutrition consultant.
“Food cravings are often a sign of nutrient deficiency.” In
other words, when we eat, our bodies are biologically hard-
wired to seek nutrients. So if you’re munching on highly
processed “fake” foods, your body will actually “ask” you to
keep eating in order to reach the vitamins and minerals it so
desperately needs.

To balance blood sugar,

eat regular meals and
make sure every meal
contains protein from
plant or animal sources.

Kick It to the Curb Tip

Integrate high-quality meats, veggies, grains and fruits into your diet. Also consider exploring
nutrient-dense traditional foods such as bone broth, fermented veggies and organ meats. Make
sure each meal includes protein and fat, and keep water close by. Contrary to popular opinion,
eight glasses a day is not for everyone. Instead, divide your body weight in half and drink that
many ounces. Remember, caffeine can act as a diuretic and—if you consume more than the
equivalent of three to five cups of coffee a day—can be dehydrating. Caffeine also deregulates
blood sugar, which can kick off cravings.

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The three major lifestyle reasons for sugar
cravings are lack of sleep, lack of exercise
and stress. All create blood sugar roller
coasters notorious for awakening sugar demons.

L I F E S T Y L E R E A S O N S F O R S U G A R C R AV I N G S Kick It to
The three major lifestyle reasons for sugar cravings are lack of sleep, lack the Curb Tip
of exercise and stress. All create blood sugar roller coasters notorious for There’s a reason we always
awakening sugar demons. Chronic stress and lack of sleep both cause an hear about the importance
increase in cortisol (the fight-or-flight hormone). When cortisol rises, so of sleep, exercise and stress
does blood sugar. High cortisol often results in a jittery, anxious sensation, management for a healthy
and in that state it’s all too easy to throw back a glass of wine or some choco- lifestyle—because it’s true.
late to medicate. Whether or not you do that, a crash inevitably follows a If your lifestyle needs an
blood sugar spike, prompting you to reach for a “treat” to get your energy overhaul, start by setting
back. It’s a vicious cycle! As for exercise, The National Institute of Diabetes small, manageable goals
and Digestive and Kidney Diseases and the American Diabetes Association so you can have success.
both point to the link between exercise and blood sugar regulation, and Then build from there.
recommend daily exercise if possible.

56 motherearthliving.com WorldMags.net
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E M OT I O N A L R E A S O N S F O R S U G A R C R AV I N G S
There’s a reason compulsive snacking (or bingeing) on
sugar or carbs is called “emotional eating,” but the psycho-
logical aspect of sugar cravings is often overlooked. When I
explain to new clients that they may be hankering for cake
and cookies because they’re unconsciously using them to
medicate painful feelings, some of them think I sound ludi-
crous. Instead, they believe they suffer from a lack of will-
power, and if only they could stick to a diet and not fall off the
wagon, all their problems would be solved. However, they’ve
usually tried that—many times—and it hasn’t worked. And
they can almost always acknowledge the fear, shame, frustra-
tion and sadness they associate with food and their bodies.
As we start working together, they often begin to see they’ve
been using sugar to cope with difficult emotions that they
may not have even been aware of.
Learning to relax
and process our
emotions can help
quell cravings.
STEPHANIE SMALL is a psychotherapist and holistic nutritionist (and recovering sugar addict) who teaches women how to end emotional eating
without feeling deprived. Via her practice in Boulder, Colorado, and Skype, Stephanie helps women transform their relationship with food. She
also offers online programs, writes, blogs and speaks at live events. Visit her at stephaniesmallhealth.com.
WorldMags.net
In my work, I’ve found that becoming aware of your emo-
tions is a key first step in ending emotional eating. Feelings
aren’t something you can reason your way out of or simply
deny—they need direct attention and compassion. In our
hectic and logic-oriented culture, we don’t place a high value
on exploring how we feel. However, when we ignore our
emotions, they get louder and louder, forcing us to resort to
more and more extreme measures to silence them.
The bottom line is this: The diet and lifestyle interventions
I have described can help greatly with mild sugar cravings. But
if you’ve got an out-of-control sugar demon and you’ve ruled
out medical conditions, the only explanation is an emotional
one. We don’t eat in a compulsive way if everything else in our
lives is okay. So if you have found that, despite repeatedly try-
ing various tactics, you continue to return to sugar, consider
how your emotions may be impacting the way you eat.
Kick It to the Curb Tip
Learning to identify and work with our emotions
takes time. It may be worth seeking a therapist
who has experience in eating issues and body-
centered practices to help guide you. To get
started, though, here’s a simple and potentially
effective first step to try: Sit in a quiet place,
take a few deep breaths in and out through
your nose, and close your eyes. As you continue
breathing, bring your awareness to any physical
sensations that may be occurring in your body.
Observe them without judging and without try-
ing to “fix” them. Spend some time with these
sensations, and track them as they shift and
change, or as they dissipate, or even increase.
As you keep breathing, now notice any emotions
that may be associated with those sensations.
Again, just observe with compassion, without
trying to figure out, “Why am I feeling this way?”
or, “What do I do about it?” This isn’t about
thinking—it’s about feeling. Again, spend some
time with these emotions. Notice any memories
or images that might arise, or whether the
emotion shifts and changes.
Bringing awareness to your internal experience
in ways like this helps you understand yourself
better, and prevents your unheard emotions
from yelling so loudly they’re running the show.
 WorldMags.net

Simple Hom
Lovely Life

Use these 16 tips to create a healthy, happy home

that supports your family’s lifestyle goals—
all for little or no money.

58 motherearthliving.com WorldMags.net
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me,
Have you ever stepped into a well-
designed room and felt instantly calm?
Or conversely, walked into a cluttered, hectic space and felt suddenly
on edge? Our surroundings affect our emotions and our mental state. Most
well-designed homes share common elements—pleasing colors, views of the
outdoors, uncluttered surfaces and interesting accessories that convey some-
thing about the personality of their owner. We can tailor our homes to our own
BY E L I Z A C R O S S unique vision, creating a home that supports us in our quest to live a naturally
healthy lifestyle tied to the cycles of the seasons. Use these tips as a jumping-off
point to create a beautiful, peaceful space perfectly suited to your family’s life.

S E R E N E BY D E S I G N
Spending time in spaces we love can help us relax, recharge and prepare
to face the world. Use these design tricks to create a soothing atmosphere in
your home.

1 LIGHTEN UP. To promote a feeling of calm in any room, try a soft palette
of whites, pastels and neutrals. “Beautiful pastels add an unexpected soft-
ness to interiors,” says Santa Fe, New Mexico, designer Jennifer Ashton. “I like
white, too—both as a wall color and an accent—and I especially like the way
white looks against natural and earth tones.” Need just the right white? Top
white paint recommendations from the popular design website Apartment
Therapy (apartmenttherapy.com) include Benjamin Moore’s Super White,
Linen White and China White; the brand’s Natura line contains no volatile
organic compounds (chemicals that offgas at room temperature and contrib-
ute to poor indoor air quality).

2 BLEND TEXTURES. Combining a variety of textures in a room is a design-

er’s trick to add subtle visual interest. Try using a mix of soft and hard
elements to create balance. If you have a contemporary, angular couch, you
might add a fluffy throw. If your chairs are soft and slouchy, pair them with
something sleek such as a glass coffee table. Experiment with tactile fabrics
such as smooth silk, soft wool or nubby linen, and rustic materials such as
handcarved wood, oil-rubbed steel and natural stone.

3 SEE THE LIGHT. Lighting is an often-underappreciated element that can

have a huge impact on whether a space feels warm and bright or drab and
dreary. Often just changing a light fixture will bring new personality to a room.
Consider installing dimmers to overhead fixtures to alter light levels for vari-
ous needs and moods. Table lamps add warmth to living spaces, and task lights
can reduce eyestrain for reading and up-close work. Seek out energy-efficient
LEDs, many of which work in compatible dimmable fixtures. Experiment
with nontraditional light sources, too; put out a collection of vintage oil lamps
(check out lehmans.com) to create ambience for a romantic dinner, or string
holiday lights on a mantle to add sparkle to a party.

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4 COLOR POP. Rather than redoing a room, try accessoriz-
ing with new accent colors to freshen a space. “I’ll some-
times design a room with the major furnishings in neutral
shades so we can add color with bright pillows, drapes and
rugs,” says Denver designer Andrea Schumacher of Andrea
Schumacher Interiors. Buying or making new pillow covers
is a low-commitment way to experiment with trendy fabric
patterns and colors.
5 CREATE AN ART ARCHIVE. We tend to collect art, trea-
sures and mementos for years until the walls, shelves and
tables are full. Simply editing and rotating accessories can keep
things fresh and interesting. Choose your favorite artwork and
treasured photos, and pack the rest away for now. When you’re
ready for a change, you can revisit your personal archives for a
new piece. You may find a whole new appreciation for the things
you have when they’re rearranged in a new configuration.
6 LESS IS MORE. The most peaceful rooms are often mini-
malist and open, giving the eye and spirit a place to rest.
Keep clutter at bay, seek out unobtrusive storage solutions,
and give spaces visual breathing room. (For more decluttering
To make your home feel
tied to the outdoors, con-
sider removing window
treatments and bringing
elements of nature inside.
60 motherearthliving.com WorldMags.net
To breathe life into a space, include
something organic in every room,
whether you create a nature-
inspired craft or raid your yard for
interesting leaves and branches.
advice, visit motherearthliving.com/organize.) Arrange furni-
ture with at least 2 1⁄2 feet of walking space around every side.
Experiment with leaving a bookshelf or two empty, and don’t
feel a compulsion to fill every space in a room.
L E T N AT U R E B E YO U R G U I D E
Science has proven that the sights and sounds of nature
are supremely calming to us. Bring the outdoors in via views,
plants and natural materials to let the serenity of nature per-
vade your home.
7 LET THE SUN SHINE IN. Views of nature help us relax.
Maximize your indoor-outdoor connection by washing
the windows and making the glass sparkle. Push drapes to the
sides, clean the screens, and open the windows to let in fresh
air. For windows that face private areas, consider removing
drapes and blinds altogether for a clean, contemporary look.
Draw your view outdoors by putting eyecatching but unob-
trusive items of interest outside windows—consider bird
feeders, plants in window boxes or pretty solar lanterns.
8 GREEN IT. Adding plants to interior spaces can eliminate
toxins from the air, increase oxygen levels and raise
indoor humidity. According to feng shui, houseplants bal-
ance the energy in the home and foster a sense of harmony.
Houseplants may promote good health, too; researchers
at Kansas State University discovered that adding plants
to hospital rooms improved surgical patients’ recovery
rates. Easy-care choices include the succulent jade plant,
the heart-leaf philodendron (if you have pets, beware; the
plant can be toxic to them if ingested) and the spider plant.
Do you have a really black thumb? Try a parlor palm, also
known as the cast-iron plant because of its hardy tem-
perament and ability to thrive in low-light conditions with
infrequent watering.
9 BRING NATURE IN. “Adding something organic to a room
can soften the space and connect it with the outdoors,”
says Sun Valley, Idaho, interior designer Jennifer Hoey Smith.
To breathe life into a space, try to include something organic
in every room of the house, whether you create a nature-
inspired craft (see page 21) or raid your yard for interesting
leaves and branches to display inside. See “Organic Elements”
at right for more ideas.
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Organic Elements
A touch of nature can enliven a room. Bring the
outdoors in with these simple, natural accessory ideas:

O A bright green bamboo stalk O Autumn leaves displayed

in a glass vase with pebbles in a pottery dish

O A pretty polished seashell O One perfect blossom floating

O Flickering candles of
natural beeswax
O A textural burlap table runner
O A vase of just-cut branches
O A naturally shed deer antler
O Forced narcissus bulbs
in a clay pot
O A sun-bleached piece
of driftwood
O A fragrant topiary rosemary plant
in a glass bowl of water
O A sea grass basket
filled with found objects
O A bonsai tree in a
handpainted pot
O Pinecones piled in a handcarved
wooden bowl
TOP: Display a few interesting, conversa-
O An interesting rock or fossil tion-starting pieces of art for a room that’s
highly engaging yet uncluttered.
O A terrarium filled with O ABOVE: Etsy retailer EarthLab (earthlab.
etsy.com) offers colorful organic cotton
small succulents
throw pillows in a wide range of prints.
O A bowl of fresh green apples

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An uncluttered, simple eat-

ing space invites sitting and
chatting while food is being
prepared. PHOTO COURTESY ROOM
AND BOARD, ROOMANDBOARD.COM;
ARIA 42R DINING TABLE AND SABRINA
CHAIRS PICTURED

S U P P O R T YO U R PA S S I O N S
Our homes are meant to be our getaways—the one place
in the world we can mold to fit our vision. Make your home
support your endeavors by creating spaces for the activities
that are most important to you.
11 CREATE A NOOK. Designate a special spot to relax and
recharge, whether it’s a window seat, a music room or
a comfortable chair tucked in an alcove with a good read-
ing light. After trying each day to find the right place in her
house to unroll her yoga mat, Diane Sieg, author of 30 Days
to Grace, finally finished and painted her back sun porch

10 DINE IN. It doesn’t get more wholesome and nourish-

ing than eating a home-cooked meal surrounded by
our loved ones. Yet busy schedules often lead to meals eaten
in the car, standing over the kitchen counter or in front of a
screen. Creating an inviting eating space will naturally inspire
more meals at home. Whether it’s tucked into a kitchen cor-
ner or in a formal dining room, the most essential element
is a sturdy table sized right for the typical number of people
in your group. If you enjoy entertaining but don’t want a
large table year-round, look for an expandable table with
leaves (antique and secondhand stores are good sources) or
“Murphy” tables that fold up on the wall when not in use.
If you don’t use your formal dining room for everyday eat-
ing, you may prefer to reconfigure the floor plan and move
the table to the kitchen where people naturally congregate.
Comfortable seats and warm lighting create ambience and
encourage lingering and conversation. Don’t let the dining
table be a repository for mail and homework; keeping the
space uncluttered will impart a sense of calm to the room.
and converted it to a yoga room. “My partner and I have
discovered that having a dedicated, comfortable space in our
home honors and supports our intention to practice yoga
every day,” Sieg says. Whether your passion is yoga, reading,
playing the trumpet, grooming your dog or gardening, carve
out a spot to dedicate to it. (Read our article on designing a
gardening nook at motherearthliving.com/garden-nook.)
12 CULTIVATE “HOUSEHOLD GRACES.” Do you have
special routines that make your house feel like
home? Honor them. Perhaps the smell of your fresh-brewed
Guatemalan coffee permeates the house like a warm hug—
wake up 15 minutes early and find a cozy spot to really
indulge that luxurious feeling. Or maybe you always keep
the cookie jar stocked with fresh, healthy treats to show your
loved ones how much you care. Have fun by experimenting
with new recipes and methods of display, whether on a pretty
tray or in decorative vessels. Perhaps you have a gift for hos-
pitality, and you want to create a welcoming, inviting table

62 motherearthliving.com WorldMags.net
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that always has room for one more: Enhance that inclination by
taking a floral arranging class or starting a collection of quirky
placemats. Explore and seek ways to creatively express your
unique talents and style in your daily life at home.

H E A LT H Y M A I N T E N A N C E
Creating a healthy home isn’t all about décor—sometimes it’s
about maintenance musts. Keep an eye on these little chores to
keep your home running smoothly.

13 LOOK UP. Over time, dust and dirt can accumulate on

ceilings, especially in corners. Remove dust and cobwebs
monthly with a vacuum brush attachment or a long-handled
dust mop. Dust the vents and smoke alarms, too, and don’t for-
get attic door covers. For ceilings too dingy to clean, a new coat
of paint will instantly freshen the space; light hues reflect light
and make a room feel bigger. As long as they’re not too delicate,
light fixtures can be cleaned with a feather duster or vacuum
brush. For chandeliers with hanging crystals, cleaning expert
Julie Edelman, author of The Ultimate Accidental Housewife,
recommends hooking an open umbrella to the bottom of the
chandelier and simply blowing the dust off with a hair dryer.

14 BREATHING SPACE. EPA studies have shown that indoor

pollutant levels can be two to five times higher inside the
home than outside, in part because of the chemicals used in syn-
thetic home furnishings. Natural fabrics and fibers are breath-
able, comfortable, nontoxic and often longer-lasting. When
replacing floor coverings and furnishings, consider items made
with natural, renewable fabrics such as organic cotton (conven-
tional cotton farming is laden with pesticides), wool, hemp, sisal,
jute and sea grass, and water-based, non-VOC glues.

15 MAINTAIN “HOT SPOTS.” We all have them: places such

as the kitchen counter or dining room table that attract
papers, keys, jackets and other assorted “stuff.” Identify these
spots, then spend 10 minutes a day in this area minimizing clut-
ter. If you don’t have a dedicated mud room, set up a small table
or cupboard to corral gloves, keys and mail, and place a sturdy
rug nearby to keep muddy boots and shoes off the floor.

16 GIVE YOURSELF A BREAK. Finally, remember to take a

moment to appreciate your home and the life you cre-
ate inside it. “Be grateful for the home you have, knowing that
at this moment, all you have is all you need,” says Sarah Ban
Breathnach, author of Simple Abundance. Enjoy your home and
overlook its imperfections (as your guests surely do), knowing
that it’s more important to spend time with family and friends TOP: Leif housewares (leifshop.com) shop owner Stacy Ann
Longenecker corrals her many objets d’art on reclaimed wood shelves
than to maintain a perfect household. from Elmwood Reclaimed Timber, mounted on the walls around her
home. PHOTO COURTESY STACY ANN LONGENECKER O ABOVE: A combination
ELIZA CROSS blogs about sustainable living, organic gardening and of rustic wood and functional décor items makes for a soothing space
saving money at happysimpleliving.com. She is the author of six books, in designer and photographer Nicole Ziegler’s Chicago apartment.
including her most recent, The Quinoa Quookbook. PHOTO COURTESY NICOLE ZIEGLER, NICOLEZIEGLERDESIGN.COM

WorldMags.net Mother Earth Living May/June 2014 63

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A pair of artists and entrepreneurs lives

a handcrafted life on a homestead in rural Oregon.
BY J E S S I C A K E L L N E R

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outside Albany, Oregon, artists, entrepreneurs and

homesteaders Jason and Cara Hibbs run the suc-
cessful organic housewares and gift company Oh,
Little Rabbit. Living in Cara’s childhood home,
complete with several acres of land, a chicken flock,
a minidonkey, a horse, two alpaca/llama mixes,
bountiful gardens, fruit trees and more, Cara and
Jason take inspiration from their homestead and
the natural beauty around them for the original
designs—which include canning jars, flying pigs,
lanterns, turtles, pinecones, squirrels, trees, herbs, CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT: Jason and Cara Hibbs live in a
rural Oregon house Cara’s dad built. PHOTO BY BARRY RUSTIN O
carrots and Sasquatch, among many others—they A backyard firepit makes appreciating the expansive views
create for their handprinted housewares. easy nearly year-round in Oregon’s mild climate. PHOTO BY
BARRY RUSTIN O A display of collected antiques, handmade
pom-pom crafts and dried herbs sit on top of a rescued
wine barrel inside the entry door. PHOTO BY BARRY RUSTIN O
Cara and Jason screen print their original illustrations on a
wide range of cloth housewares. PHOTO BY CRAIG PAULSEN

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Cara and Jason Hibbs founded Oh,

Little Rabbit because of Cara’s
unquenchable desire to create art. But
the fact that they’re creating useable
housewares makes the art even more mean-
ingful to her. “In art school, so much was fine art and it was
hard for me to see how I’d fit into that market,” Cara says. “It
was so specific and not accessible to a lot of people. I like the
idea of doing something that is useful to everybody—some-
thing that is utilitarian but also has a unique feel someone
can relate to so they really enjoy their practical item.”

Jason and Cara love the idea that people can use their work
to change the mood in their home or kitchen without a
major overhaul. And they hope they’re creating timeless
items people can use for a long time. “I like to think our tow-
els could be put in a kitchen in the ’50s and not look out of
place, and they could be put in a kitchen 20 years from now
and not be out of place,” Jason says.

Although the two are running a successful business, they’re

driven more by artistic expression than by marketability.
“We definitely aren’t thinking, ‘Here’s whatever product
that will sell, let’s make more,’” Cara says. “We’re more in the
mindset, ‘What’s a new illustration we can do, what’s a new
image?’ We have the hardest time doing something just
because we know it will sell. We really believe in making
things that are useful and meaningful.”

The two hope their success continues, because they say now
they are spoiled with a career that enables them to fulfill
their artistic passions while also living the lifestyle they’re
passionate about. “When you do something you absolutely
love doing it’s dangerous because it spoils you,” Jason says.
“I don’t think I could go back to a regular job, I’m so used to
getting up and enjoying work and setting my own schedule.
If you want to spend more time on something, you go for it.
You’re not responsible to anyone but yourself.”

Cara says that, although they

invest a lot of time into their
business, it’s worth it to do
something they truly love. “At
the end of the day it’s hard to
get away from it, but we’re really
TOP: Cara works on her screen printing machine in the couple’s back-
yard studio. PHOTO BY BARRY RUSTIN O ABOVE: The couple prints a variety of lucky that we love what we do.
illustrations onto organic cotton lunch sacks. PHOTO BY CRAIG PAULSEN O The fact that it consumes more
OPPOSITE TOP: In the living room, a planter and large window seat con- time is OK because we enjoy
nect the home to its surroundings, while antique furnishings and décor
lend personality to the home. PHOTO BY BARRY RUSTIN O OPPOSITE BELOW: it and care about it. It’s fun to
Jason built the dining room table out of scraps of wood from the local really care about your job.”
Habitat for Humanity ReStore. PHOTO BY BARRY RUSTIN

66 motherearthliving.com WorldMags.net
 WorldMags.net

B A BY B U N N Y
About three years ago, Jason and Cara were living in Albany
managing a storage facility. “It was the most boring job you
could have,” Jason says. “We sat in an office all day, but no one
came in regularly so it was really slow.” Cara had recently quit
fine art school for illustration (because she couldn’t afford it),
but she wanted to experiment with different art techniques,
so she and Jason started making block prints. After printing
on anything they could get their hands on—bags, journals,
whatever—they decided to make a set of tea towels, “I think
because we needed some towels,” Jason says.
They made a few extra, and a friend had told Cara about
the online craft marketplace Etsy, so the couple thought, “Why
not,” set up an online store and posted some towels. “We posted
it on a Friday after work and went to dinner,” Jason says. “When
we came back we had sold one. We felt a mix of excitement
and a little fear, like ‘What do we do now?’ We’d never done
anything like this before, so we were running around thinking Jason had been in a competitive nursing program, and
about how we were going to ship it. We kept going and every- missing entry into one phase of the program meant he had
thing we posted would sell as quick as we got it posted.” three months off from classes. During that time, the business
The two were printing using carved rubber blocks. They continued to pick up steam. The two realized it was time for
liked the effect but not the amount of time it took to create both of them to consider jumping in full-time if they really
each print—about an hour and a half for each towel they sold wanted to make a go of it.
for $12. They knew they needed to come up with a more “I had been thinking this would be my job and Jason was
time-efficient way to make their product, so they started just helping me,” Cara says. “But during that period I realized
experimenting with screen printing, starting with an inex- it was growing faster than I could keep up with and that I
pensive hobbyist kit they bought at a craft store. At the time, couldn’t do it by myself. So we took that leap and dedicated
the two were living in the 400-square-foot apartment above all of our time to the business.”
the storage facility where they worked. As their business The two haven’t looked back. Oh, Little Rabbit has
continued to expand, “We cleaned out the coat closet and we exploded into an Etsy powerhouse and the company now
made this screen printing cart that we could roll in and out offers wholesale items to retailers across the country, and
of it,” Jason says. “So the business literally started out of a coat sells a hefty quantity of merchandise through its own website,
closet in our old apartment.” ohlittlerabbit.com.

WorldMags.net Mother Earth Living May/June 2014 67

 WorldMags.net
TOP: In the master bedroom, handlaid ceiling planks, a remarkable ceiling line
and a half-moon window create interest, while a soft curtain on a four-poster
bed brings softness and romance. O ABOVE: The efficient kitchen includes a
light-filled, eat-in dining nook, lots of cabinet space and a hanging pot rack. O
OPPOSITE: High ceilings, huge windows overlooking a beautiful view and built-in
shelving make the living room bright and inviting. PHOTOS BY BARRY RUSTIN
68 motherearthliving.com WorldMags.net
BUILDING THE BURROW
As the business was growing, Cara and Jason also
had to get settled in their personal life. They quit
their jobs at the storage facility, which meant moving
out of the apartment. Meanwhile, Cara’s parents had
put her childhood home up for sale right around the
time of the housing market crash, and it had been
sitting unoccupied for about two years. Cara and
Jason had previously lived in the house as a rental for
about a year, and they loved its rural location—not
to mention the fact that Cara’s father, a builder, had
handbuilt the home. They decided to buy the place
from Cara’s parents. It was also the perfect setup for
their business because of a large backyard workshop
equipped with power and water, which they were able
to easily convert into a screen printing studio (they
also upgraded from that old hobbyist machine to a
professional screen printing setup).
Living in a place so tied to nature is important to
Cara and Jason, both personally and professionally.
“I’ve always enjoyed going into town or to Portland
for a day to go to a fun restaurant or something, but
I would really rather live out of town,” Cara says. “We
like having the pasture and having animals and hav-
ing a garden.”
Living nearer to nature also offers inspiration to
the pair as they develop their designs. “We’re on the
country end in our artwork, and having chickens and
a garden and canning our food gives us lots of ideas
for the business,” Jason says.
Cara and Jason also love that their home is a fam-
ily heirloom. “It feels right to me to live here,” Cara
says. “Growing up, my mom would garden and can
and so it’s come full circle with me now being able to
can and take care of the gardens. It’s been a nice tran-
sition to adulthood. I respect it more and it means a
lot to me knowing they put in the hardwood floor
and the insulation. The house means a lot to us.”
A PERFECT NEST
Handhewn ceiling eaves, a bannister made of a
tree that fell on Cara’s grandparents’ farm, patio pil-
lars salvaged from a nearby historic home— Cara and
Jason will never change these elements of their home.
Yet the two have made other changes to make the
house their own, most notably designing and creat-
ing much of their own furnishings.
A hobbyist woodworker, Jason built their dining
room table out of scrap wood he collected from their
local Habitat for Humanity ReStore. He’s also built
 WorldMags.net

What do you do when you

need to get away from it all?
CARA: We are lucky we only live about an
hour away from the coast, and that
is usually where we go when we need
a break.

What’s your favorite

room/space in your home?
JASON: My wood shop
CARA: I love our family room. It has tall
windows that let in so much light!

What’s your favorite antique

piece in your home?
JASON: An old branding iron that
we found at a flea market that
coincidentally is my initials.
CARA: I have a small collection of
vintage quilts that I have collected
over the past few years and those
pieces would have to be some of
my favorites. I love the look of the
handstitching and the old fabrics.

What’s your best-selling design?

Why do you think that is?
CARA: The Mason jar is probably the best.
We think it’s because Mason jars are
so timeless. They have been around
a long time, and people still use them
today for canning, decorating and a
million other things. People can relate
to it, or have family memories linked
to it. We know we do.

What’s your favorite music
to work to?
CARA: We listen to all kinds of music
when we are out in the studio,
but lately we have been listening
to a lot of folk music.
You find $50 in an old coat pocket.
How do you spend it?
JASON: A bottle of scotch
CARA: Something from an antique store.
What’s one of your biggest goals
for the next five years?
CARA: We really love what we do, so in
the next five years we hope to keep
going strong! We are always looking
for new products to include in our
line and add diversity. We are in the
middle of developing a stationery
line and are very excited to make
that available soon!
Jason and Cara are frequently asked
how they came up with the name
of their business. It was inspired
by Jason’s family who used this old
Russian idiom when he was grow-
ing up. It roughly translates to “Oh,
my goodness!” and might be said to
a child who has mildly misbehaved
or behaved foolishly.

WorldMags.net Mother Earth Living May/June 2014 69

 WorldMags.net

coffee tables, chairs and more. “We’ve gotten to a point that

if we need a piece of furniture and it’s not upholstered, we’re
going to make it ourselves,” Jason says. “The dining room
table is 100 percent reclaimed wood. It’s something that was
going to be thrown away and now it will be in our house for
the rest of our lives.”
A skilled embroiderist and quilter, Cara also contributes
to the home’s handmade personality. “We like to make things.
We like having unique, one-of-a-kind things in our house,”
she says. The two also collect antiques, and they display their
finds throughout their home.

N AT U R A L I N S P I R AT I O N
In addition to being inspired in their designs, the land
around them has also inspired Jason and Cara to make many
of their products with organic cotton and sustainable prac-
tices. Jason says choosing organic just makes sense for their
business. “I don’t know why you wouldn’t choose organic,”
Jason says. “It’s available and it’s not much more expensive.
If you can use a better product that’s better for the environ-
ment, why wouldn’t you? I’ve had lots of people ask us if our But most importantly, choosing organic honors Jason and
products are organic. We’ve never had anyone request some- Cara’s love of nature. “Growing up in the Northwest, you have
thing non-organic.” mountains and trees and rivers,” Cara says. “Growing up with
Their love for land inspires everything the Hibbses do, so much beauty gives us a lot of respect and caring for nature.
from their business to their lifestyle. “The land around us is a Coming from an eco-friendly vantage point makes the most
gift and that gift is to be utilized,” Jason says. “If we can get a sense to us. We want to preserve what we have; we want to
large amount of our food from our land, we want to do that have that available for future generations.”
before other sources. Since we moved onto the property we’ve
Editor-in-chief JESSICA KELLNER loved the drive down to Cara and
planted a lot of fruit trees, so I like to make cider and right Jason’s gorgeous homestead and workspace in Oregon after last
now I’m brewing seven gallons of mead.” year’s Mother Earth News Fair in Puyallup, Washington.

TOP: A patio made of concrete pavers is the perfect place for raised beds and for the chickens to roam. Jason and Cara grow green beans, onions,
tomatoes, rhubarb, carrots, strawberries, potatoes, basil, squash, zucchini, marionberries, blueberries, eggplants and more in their gardens.
O ABOVE: Cara and Jason’s donkey, Crystal, enjoys munching on some grass at dusk. PHOTOS BY BARRY RUSTIN

70 motherearthliving.com WorldMags.net
 WorldMags.net
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ADVERTISER DIRECTORY
THE SE MOTHER E ARTH LIVING ADVERTISER S WANT TO SHARE THEIR PRODUCT INFORMATION WITH YOU.
PLEA SE COMPLETE THE ATTACHED CARD AND MAIL BACK TO US TODAY.

rs Advertiser . . . . . . . . . pg  rs Advertiser . . . . . . . . . pg  rs Advertiser . . . . . . . . . pg 

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WorldMags.net

readers,
Use these simple,
natural tips to keep the
irritating symptoms
of intestinal upset at bay.
BY L I N D A B. W H I T E

NAUSEA, VOMITING, HEARTBURN, diarrhea, cramp-

ing, bloating, flatulence. We’ve all endured intesti-
nal upset—sometimes at supremely inopportune
moments. Digestive distress can manifest on airplanes,
during business meetings, on bus trips in foreign lands,
during a first date, while running a marathon and even
on stage.
While some of us have more sensitive systems than
others, we all have control over a number of factors
that influence our digestive health. Try the following
tips to keep your system running smoothly and toss
intestinal complaints out the window.

E AT M A I N LY P L A N T S
Plant chemicals and nutrients promote overall
health and protect against cancer, inflammation and
free radical damage. On the other hand, processed
meat and red meat, especially meat cooked at high
temperatures, is associated with an increased risk of
colorectal cancer.

WorldMags.net Mother Earth Living May/June 2014 73

 WorldMags.net
Unlike food allergies,
food intolerances don’t
directly involve the immune
system. The problem stems
from the body’s inability to
digest a particular food.
74 motherearthliving.com WorldMags.net
Plant-based diets also provide fiber, which, combined with
plenty of fluids, prevents constipation. There are two types of
fiber: insoluble and soluble. Insoluble fiber doesn’t dissolve in
water and passes through the intestinal tract unaltered. Sources
include whole grains (whole wheat, brown rice, barley, farro, bul-
gur and couscous), popcorn, lentils, dark green leafy vegetables,
broccoli, cabbage and celery.
Soluble fiber dissolves in water to form a gel, which slows diges-
tion and enhances feelings of satiety. Bacteria that normally inhabit
the intestinal tract ferment the gel, which promotes bowel health.
Sources include oats, barley, beans, flax seeds, psyllium seed husks,
nuts, carrots, apples, oranges, pears, strawberries and blueberries.
According to one study, for people with IBS, soluble fiber
appears to alleviate symptoms, while insoluble fiber may do the
opposite. Consult your physician to consider whether reducing
insoluble fiber may be helpful for you.
R U L E O U T F O O D A L L E R G I E S A N D I N TO L E R A N C E S
Food allergies involve a reaction from the immune system,
which carries out a misguided attack against various food proteins.
Symptoms include nausea, stomach pain, diarrhea, hives, respira-
tory congestion and dizziness. For some people, food allergies trig-
ger anaphylaxis, a life-threatening condition marked by swelling
of the lips and mouth, hoarseness, difficulty breathing, wheezing,
rapid heart rate, low blood pressure, confusion and collapse.
Doctors use blood and skin tests to identify food allergies.
Eight foods account for most food allergies: cow’s milk; soy;
wheat; eggs; peanuts; tree nuts (such as almonds, walnuts, pecans
and cashews); shellfish; and some fish. Management involves
avoidance of these foods. Some food allergies, such as those to
milk and eggs, can be outgrown. Other allergies, such as those to
peanuts and shellfish, last a lifetime.
Unlike food allergies, food intolerances (also called food sen-
sitivities) don’t directly involve the immune system. Many times
the problem stems from the digestive system’s inability to digest
a particular food. For example, an insufficiency of the enzyme
lactase causes lactose (milk sugar) intolerance. Allergy to cow’s
milk, on the other hand, involves an immune system response to
milk protein (casein and/or whey).
Food intolerances can cause nausea, gas, bloating, diarrhea and
headache—but no respiratory distress. Whereas a tiny amount of
allergen can trigger an allergic response, it usually takes larger
amounts and/or frequent exposure to elicit symptoms of intolerance.
Elimination diets can identify problem foods. The protocol
usually involves eliminating the usual suspects—especially dairy
and gluten-containing foods (wheat, spelt, kamut, oats, rye, barley
and malt)—from the diet for two weeks, then slowly reintroduc-
ing foods over a period of weeks while observing symptoms.
Keeping a food diary provides a useful record. For more informa-
tion, see the handouts available from the University of Arizona
Center for Integrative Medicine at integrativemedicine.arizona.
edu/resources.html.
 WorldMags.net

Kale, Potato and

White Bean Soup
With white beans and numerous
veggies, this soup is a good source
of digestion-enhancing soluble and
insoluble fiber.

1 pound turkey or chicken

sausage, sliced
11⁄2 cups chopped onions
2 to 3 garlic cloves, minced
4 cups chicken stock or broth
3 cups chopped red potatoes
(cut into 1-inch cubes)
1 cup chopped carrots
1 cup chopped celery stalk with leaves
1
⁄2 teaspoon dried thyme
8 cups (packed) coarsely chopped kale
leaves, tough stems removed
1
⁄2 tablespoon snipped fresh rosemary
1 (15-ounce) can white beans,
rinsed and drained
Salt and pepper, to taste
1
⁄4 cup freshly grated Parmesan
cheese, for garnish (optional)
PHOTO BY HOWARD LEE PUCKETT

E AT B E N E F I C I A L B AC T E R I A 1 . Brown sausage 3 to 5 minutes in

To work properly, bodily systems such as the skin, upper respira- large pot or Dutch oven. Add onions
tory tract and digestive tract team with mutually beneficial bacteria and and garlic and sauté for 5 minutes, or
fungi. Our intestines alone are home to up to 500 bacterial species— until onions are limp. Drain any excess
these “gut flora” outnumber our own cells by a factor of 10. They aid fat from pot.
digestion and absorption of food, discourage colonization with disease- 2 . Add stock, potatoes, carrots, celery
causing microbes, and promote immune system health. Laboratory and thyme. Bring to a boil, then simmer,
research suggests that gut microbes protect against autoimmune disease covered, for 15 to 20 minutes, or until
and inflammatory conditions. Disturbances in gut microbes have been potatoes and carrots are near tender.
linked with inflammatory bowel disease, obesity and diabetes. Add kale, rosemary and white beans.
Probiotics are live microorganisms such as bacteria and yeast that, Cook 5 minutes more, or until carrots
when consumed, offer numerous health benefits (read more about pro- and potatoes are tender.
biotics on page 31). These come in the form of fermented foods (such as 3 . Remove from heat and season to
yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, kimchi, miso and tempeh) and supplements. taste with salt and pepper. Ladle into
Most of the research has focused on strains of the Lactobacillus spe- bowls and top with Parmesan,
cies. For instance, studies have found some strains treat and prevent cer- if desired. Serves 4 to 6.
tain types of infectious diarrhea such as traveler’s diarrhea and rotavirus —Recipe courtesy Kris Wetherbee,
infection in children. A 2010 review of 10 studies found probiotics help- kriswetherbee.com
ful in managing IBS. Probiotic supplements and active-culture yogurt
can also reduce the risk of antibiotic-associated diarrhea. Consumption
of fermented dairy products such as yogurt can also relieve constipation
and may reduce the risk of colon cancer.

WorldMags.net Mother Earth Living May/June 2014 75

 WorldMags.net
Digestive Tea
The herbs in this formula relieve
cramps, bloating and flatulence.
1 tablespoon peppermint leaves
1 teaspoon fennel seeds
1 teaspoon anise seeds
1 teaspoon cinnamon chips
½ teaspoon cardamom seeds
2 cups water
1. Combine herbs in a clean jar.
2. Boil water; remove from heat.
3. Add 1 to 2 teaspoons of herb
blend per cup of hot water. Cover
and steep for 20 minutes. Strain
and enjoy before and after meals.
—Adapted from 500 Time-Tested
Home Remedies and the Science
Behind Them by Linda B. White,
Barbara Seeber and Barbara Brownell
Grogan, available on page 89.
Tummy Rub
for Pain and Bloating
This oil blend relieves intestinal
upset in adults and children.
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 drops peppermint essential oil
2 drops basil essential oil
2 drops lavender essential oil
2 drops ginger essential oil
1. Blend ingredients in a jar.
2. To use, lie on your back.
Massage 1 to 2 teaspoons of
the mixture onto your belly in a
clockwise direction. Cover with
a damp cloth and a hot water
bottle or heating pad.
3. Cap and store leftovers out of
reach of children. External use only.
VARIATION: Add 8 to 10 drops of
any one of these essential oils to
olive oil, then use as directed.
76 motherearthliving.com
DRINK UP
Water is an essential part of our diet. Among water’s many functions, adequate
amounts promote regular bowel movements and prevent constipation. In fact, low
fluid intake predicts constipation more reliably than low fiber.
The Institute of Medicine recommends men consume an average of 3.7 liters
(about 4 quarts) daily and women drink 2.7 liters (about 3 quarts) a day. However,
you don’t really need to track your water intake. In the absence of extreme old age
(when thirst mechanisms weaken) and serious illness, thirst is a good guide.
S AY “O M ”
In other words, manage stress. The intestinal tract is exquisitely sensitive to it.
Stress activates our sympathetic nervous systems (fight or flight) and dials down
our parasympathetic nervous systems (rest and digest). When we’re stressed,
blood flow to the gut decreases, saliva dries, enzyme secretion diminishes, small
intestinal motility slows and large intestinal motility speeds up. The net effect can
be poor digestion, abdominal discomfort and, with more severe stress, diarrhea.
Anxiety and stress correlate with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), a condition
marked by abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea and/or constipation. Preliminary
research suggests that a technique known as mindfulness-based stress reduction
(MBSR), a therapy that blends yoga and mindful meditation, can ameliorate
symptoms of IBS. For more information, see mindfullivingprograms.com/what
MBSR.php.
Psychological stress also plays a role in peptic ulcers. From about 1950
through the mid-1980s, doctors thought psychological stress was the main cause
of ulcers. Then blame shifted to the bacterium Helicobacter pylori, and the main
treatment to antibiotics. Today most physicians have come to a middle ground,
recognizing that stress sets the stage for and perpetuates ulcers. Other important
factors include smoking, alcohol consumption and the use of nonsteroidal anti-
inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen.
Reducing psychological stress
through therapies such as
yoga and meditation can
improve digestive health.
WorldMags.net
 WorldMags.net
Heal with Herbs
For centuries, chefs and traditional
healers alike have recommended
DIGESTIVE BITTERS to pique the
appetite and spark digestive juices.
Aperitifs—alcoholic drinks taken
before a meal—include “bitters,”
which contain herbs such as gen-
tian, cascarilla, orange peel, carda-
mom, coriander and juniper.
Another tradition for jump-starting
digestion is eating a salad of
BITTER GREENS—such as endive,
arugula, dandelion leaves and
radicchio—or an appetizer of
ARTICHOKE LEAVES. Artichoke, and
even more so its botanical cousin
MILK THISTLE, also supports liver
health. Artichoke leaf extract and
milk thistle extract both reduce
symptoms of dyspepsia (a vague
term for digestive difficulties with
symptoms such as nausea, heart-
burn, bloating and discomfort) and
irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
FENNEL provides a host of diges-
tive benefits. It acts as a carmina-
tive (helps expel gas), antispas-
modic (to relieve painful cramping),
anti-inflammatory, digestive bitter
and antinausea herb. After a meal,
try chewing a few fennel seeds to
LINDA B. WHITE is a Denver-based doctor, writer and lecturer. Her latest two books are Health Now: An Integrative Approach to Personal Health
and 500 Time-Tested Home Remedies and the Science Behind Them, available on page 89.
improve digestion. You might cre-
ate a tasty digestive-enhancing
herbal blend of dried fennel seeds,
anise seeds and caraway seeds. To
counter indigestion, chew 1⁄8 to ¼
teaspoon of the seed blend.
PEPPERMINT possesses antispas-
modic, carminative, antinausea
and analgesic effects that resolve
many digestive complaints. If
tension has caused a headache
and intestinal distress, pepper-
mint may remedy both issues.
Peppermint oil capsules have been
shown safe and effective in chil-
dren and adults with IBS. A combi-
nation of peppermint and caraway
oil also relieves dyspepsia. Look
for peppermint products that are
enteric-coated, which can survive
the acidic stomach then break
down in the small intestine. Other
mint-family herbs such as spear-
mint, lemon balm, catnip and basil
may also reduce painful cramping
and gas.
GERMAN CHAMOMILE is a tradi-
tional digestive remedy, readily
available as a tea. Slightly bitter
and anti-inflammatory, this herb
WorldMags.net
has been successfully combined
with herbs such as peppermint
and milk thistle for managing
dyspepsia and IBS.
GINGER is one of my favorite
medicinal and culinary plants. It’s
warming, anti-inflammatory, anal-
gesic and the best-researched herb
against nausea. Studies show it
counters motion sickness, post-
operative nausea and vomiting,
and nausea of pregnancy (preg-
nant women should take no more
than 1 gram a day). Lab studies
show ginger might prevent stom-
ach ulcers caused by nonsteroidal
anti-inflammatory drugs.
SLIPPERY ELM BARK and
MARSHMALLOW ROOT spell relief
for inflammation anywhere in the
intestinal tract. You can make tea
from either plant. You can also take
encapsulated powdered slippery
elm or mix powdered bark half and
half with oats to make a soothing
cereal (add minced ginger to coun-
teract nausea and enhance taste).
Tea made from red and black
RASPBERRY—the leaves and roots—
is a traditional diarrhea remedy.
Mother Earth Living May/June 2014 77
 GARDEN IN SEASON
WorldMags.net

Grow a Summertime
Container Garden
No space for a traditional garden? Put a few containers in sunny spots for fresh
cucumbers, eggplants, peppers and tomatoes all summer long.

BY R O S E M A R I E N I C H O L S M CG E E A N D M AG G I E S T U C K E Y

WHETHER YOU DON’T HAVE GARDEN SPACE or you want a few mobile crops, planting in
containers can be extremely fulfilling and productive. But which plants are best and what do
you need to know to create a superb container garden? Read on for our tips on planting, crop
selection and troubleshooting your summer container garden.

78 motherearthliving.com WorldMags.net
 WorldMags.net GARDEN IN SEASON

CO N TA I N E R P L A N T I N G 1 0 1
Your new pots are waiting. Your potting soil is ready to go.
You’ve gathered seed packets and eager small plants. Now what?
When you’re ready to get your plants going, start by filling
your containers with potting soil up to about 2 inches from the
top, and water thoroughly. Now you’re ready to plant seeds or
baby plants. Planting seeds directly is simplicity itself; just follow
the instructions on the seed packet for depth and spacing. Thin
extra seedlings with scissors once they sprout.
Moving transplants into containers takes a little more atten-
tion. Make sure the potting mix is lightly and evenly damp;
thoroughly water baby plants and let them drain while you
proceed. With your trowel, dig a hole about as deep as the
small containers your seedlings were grown in. Slide out the
baby plant and all its soil. Try to keep intact the soil ball around
the transplant. If you see a mat of roots twisted at the bottom,
untangle them and trim back the longest ones. Fit the plant and
its soil ball into the hole, and fill with extra potting mix. Tamp
the soil lightly, and move on to the next plant. When everything
is in, water the entire container to help plants settle.
If possible, plant transplants when cloudy weather is forecast
for the next few days; bright sun is hard on tender transplants.

Best Container Garden Crops

Some of the best plants for a summer container garden include crunchy cucumbers,
creamy eggplants, colorful peppers and juicy tomatoes. Follow these tips for growing
each warm-season treasure in containers.

EGGPLANTS
O Start in containers as transplants.
O Plant eight weeks before daytime
highs reach 80 degrees.
O For the first couple of weeks, protect
tender plants with plastic sheeting, held
up off plants with short stakes; or cover
them with milk-jug cloches at night.
O Put the container in your sunniest
location, keep soil moist, and fertilize
every two weeks.
O As soon as the outside skin is glossy
and smooth, cut off eggplants, taking
a bit of the stem. To keep plants
producing, keep up with harvesting.
O Traditional eggplants can be too heavy
for containers. Explore Asian types and
dwarfs. Varieties to try: ‘Asian Bride’,
‘Green Goddess’, ‘Ichiban’, ‘Neon’ (Asian
types); ‘Bambino’, ‘Comprido Verde Claro’,
‘Little Fingers’, ‘Rosa Bianca’ (dwarf types)
PEPPERS
O Start in containers as transplants. Wait
until nighttime temperatures are con-
sistently above 55 degrees and daytime
temperatures are at least 70 degrees.
O Choose dense, compact young
plants—not tall and leggy ones. Don’t
be seduced by large plants with flowers
or tiny fruits already showing.
O Keep peppers warm: While plants are
getting established, position containers
where they get maximum sun. If weather
is marginal, cover plants with a row cover
until they flower.
O On the other hand, in a heat wave (mid
to upper 90s), move into the shade any
pepper plants that already have fruit.
O Peppers respond well to phosphorous-
rich fertilizer. Mix a bit of superphos-
phate, bone meal or bulb food into the
soil at planting time. Calcium, mag-
nesium and sulfur are also important.
Common household sources you can
bury in your container include matches
Later in summer, let peppers hang on
until they reach their mature color.
O Any pepper variety, sweet or hot,
should do well in containers. Varieties to
try: SWEET: ‘Ace’, ‘Giant Marconi’, ‘Gypsy’,
‘North Star’ (red); ‘Cherry Time’, ‘Jingle
Bells’, ‘Sweet Red Cherry’ (mini reds);
‘Valencia’ (orange); ‘Golden Summer’
(yellow); ‘Lilac’, ‘Purple Beauty’ (purple);
‘Chocolate Beauty’, ‘Sweet Chocolate’
(brown) HOT: ‘Senorita Jalapeño’, ‘Super
Cayenne II’, ‘Super Chile’, ‘Thai Dragon’
CUCUMBERS
O Cucumbers grow fast. Start with seeds
rather than transplants.
O Cucumbers are vines, but several types
maintain a compact bush shape; be sure
you know which you’re getting.
O Plant when daytime temperatures
reach at least 70 degrees.
O Consistent water and weekly organic

(sulfur), eggshells (calcium) and Epsom fertilizer are the secrets to success. To
salts dissolved in water (magnesium). help hold in moisture, cover soil with
Do not give plants extra nitrogen. light moss.

O Early in the season, harvest green O Cukes do well on a trellis. In a 20-inch

peppers when they reach a nice size. container with a demi-cage, you could
The more you pick, the more you’ll get. plant six vines.

WorldMags.net Mother Earth Living May/June 2014 79

 WorldMags.net GARDEN IN SEASON

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Small varieties, which produce fruit more quickly, are perfect for container gardens.

Order today! O Pick cucumbers while they’re small O Plant seedlings when nighttime
Call (800) 456-6018 or visit
and tender or the vines will shut down. temperatures stay above 55. Use large
www.MotherEarthLiving.com/Shopping
containers. Heavy feeders with large root
O If your area is not visited by many systems, tomatoes need plenty of soil.
pollinators, help plants by visiting the

 
garden in the morning with a small O Use liquid complete fertilizer every

paintbrush. Swirl it around inside an two weeks, or apply a new dose of time-

 
  
 open flower. Then go on to the next release fertilizer midway through the

  
  
 blossom, just like a bee. season. Don’t use nitrogen-heavy fertil-
   izer. An application of liquid seaweed
     O Focus on slicers instead of picklers. every two weeks yields excellent results.

  (Pickles require more cucumbers
than containers can reliably produce.) O Water consistently and deeply.

 
  Varieties to try: ‘Fanfare’, ‘Lemon’, Dry spells followed by intense watering
    ‘Salad Bush’, ‘Suyo’, ‘Sweet Success’ can lead to cracked fruits.

O Plant tomatoes deeply, covering up

TOMATOES the lowest sets of leaves, to encourage

O Start in containers as transplants.
If you don’t grow seedlings yourself,
choose plants that are stocky with thick
stems and rich green leaves.
vigorous root growth. Add a weak
solution of complete fertilizer or fish
emulsion to the soil around new plants.
O

Use these general rules when choos-

         O Determinate tomatoes grow to a ing varieties: Smaller fruits are ready
certain height then get no taller, and sooner; determinate varieties are easier



yield fruit in a concentrated time span. to manage; plant at least one reliable
 ! Rambunctious indeterminate tomatoes mainstay such as ‘Big Beef’, ‘Celebrity’ or

 grow until frost kills them; provide good ‘Early Girl’; and experiment with other
 support such as a stout stake, trellis or varieties as space allows.



 demi-cage set a foot deep into the soil.


 Adapted from McGee & Stuckey’s The Bountiful Container by Rose Marie Nichols McGee and
Circle #19; see card pg 72 Maggie Stuckey, available on page 89.
80 motherearthliving.com WorldMags.net
 WorldMags.net
.HYKLULYZKLZLY]L
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Troubleshooting the 5,>º,ZZLU[PHSZ2P[»7YV[LJ[Z
Container Garden *SLHUZLZ4VPZ[\YPaLZ
With a little ingenuity, you can enhance (SSUH[\YHS
the physical environment around your PUNYLKPLU[Z
containers. Most vegetables need six
hours of sunlight a day, so make sure
 -VY2P[
0UJS: /

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wherever you plan to put your containers
^OVHYLV\[KVVYZH
gets at least that amount. SV[HWWYLJPH[LKI` STEVIA PLANTS
HU`VUL^OV^HU[Z www.Stevia-Plant.com
O TOO MUCH SUN. Suspend a shade OLHS[O`ZRPU
from an overhang. Or plant a trellis with 2P[PUJS\KLZ! Herbal Advantage offers
beans and position it so it faces the sun; ‹/LYIHS:OPLSK hundreds of herbs that may be
)\N9LWLSSLU[
put shade-loving plants at the base of helpful in alleviating allergies,
:OHRLHUKZWYH`
the trellis. MVYYLSPLMMYVTWLZR`I\NZVaIV[[SL boosting energy & clearing
‹4PU[3PW)HST4VPZ[LUZVV[OLHUK your skin.
WYV[LJ[`V\YSPWZVa[\IL
O TOO LITTLE SUN. Paint a wall or free- Herbs, Spices, Essential Oils,
‹4PZJOPL]V\Z:\NHY:JY\I*SLHUZL
standing screen bright white and position L_MVSPH[LYLQ\]LUH[L[PYLKOHUKZ Herbal Teas & Herb Capsules.
containers where they’ll catch the light VaJVU[HPULY
that bounces off.
‹:HS]H[PVU.HYKLULYZ:HS]L/LHSPUN
YLSPLMMVYHI\ZLKOHUKZVaJVU[HPULY
MEDICINAL HERBS
FREE PRODUCT CATALOG
O TOO HOT. When container soil gets too ^^^TPSSZTP_JVT www.herbaladvantage.com
hot, roots suffer. If your summers are hot,
stick to larger containers, which retain

)LH[`-LY[PSPaLY76)V_
4LTILYVM[OL
800-753-9910
*SL]LSHUK;5
moisture better. To add a layer of insula-
tion, put one plant-filled container inside Circle #9; see card pg 72 Circle #21; see card pg 72

a larger container and fill in the gap with

peat moss or wood chips, kept damp.

TOO COLD. If your growing season

All-Star Heirlooms
for Summertime
O

isn’t long enough, gain time by babying

containers through cool days. Wrap pots
in blankets or heavy dark fabric. Use dark
containers (or paint those you have). At
night, cover the entire container, plants
and all, with lightweight protection such
as a pillowcase or row cover.
Feasting
No garden—or summer salad—
should be without these delectable
heirloom Tomatoes. The seeds
from each variety have been
passed from generation to generation
for 50 years or more, which tells you
they’re all longtime favorites and
true garden treasures. Our Set of Six
seedlings includes full-bodied slicers
‘Orange Strawberry Oxheart’ and
‘Gold Medal Yellow,’ hefty beefsteak
‘Brandywine Red,’ juicy, garnet-
colored ‘Black Prince,’ tangy,
late-season ‘Green Zebra,’ and
German ‘Riesentraube,’ which
grows in bunches that resemble
oversize grapes.

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Please mention Source Code 4S976
We look forward to serving you.
If nights are chilly, provide transplants warmth
by covering them with plastic-bottle cloches. Circle #40; see card pg 72

WorldMags.net Mother Earth Living May/June 2014 81

 GARDEN TIPS & TECHNIQUES
WorldMags.net
Wildlife-Proof Your Garden
Use proven defenses to protect your garden from hungry critters.
VEGETABLE GARDENERS ARE OPTIMISTS by nature, so we are
not inclined to focus on problems that may be hiding in the
bushes. But truth be told, almost every garden is threatened by
wildlife of some kind, be it hungry rabbits that eat your salad
greens down to nubs or the neighborhood cat who uses your
beet bed as his litter box. And sure, free-range chickens help
earn their keep in summer by eating bugs, but they will scratch
through newly planted beds to eat the seeds the moment your
back is turned.
Clearly some sort of defense is in order, but enclosing your
entire garden with a critter-proof fence is expensive and time-
consuming. And, while electric fencing is cheap and effective, it
is not a practical solution in gardens shared with children and
pets. A better strategy is to protect sensitive new plantings with
barriers that hide crops from view and/or keep animals from
getting within nibbling range.
D E T E R U N WA N T E D W I L D L I F E
You may already be using row covers for spring frost pro-
tection—this strategy provides the additional benefit of hiding
plants from view. When animals cannot see your lettuce or car-
rots, they won’t try to eat them. When it gets too hot to use row
covers, you can switch to covers made of tulle (wedding net),
If you struggle with deer in the garden, consult Rutgers’ list of deer-resistant
plants at njaes.rutgers.edu/deerresistance.
82 motherearthliving.com WorldMags.net
which does not retain heat even when all the edges are securely
tucked in with boards and bricks. Tulle is better than bird net-
ting for frustrating berry-eating birds because little humming-
birds don’t get tangled in it, as often happens with bird netting.
Large veggies such as tomatoes and sweet corn quickly out-
grow row covers but may still need protection from animals,
especially those of the domestic persuasion such as dogs and
chickens. Using lightweight polyester poultry netting and a
handful of slender stakes, you can quickly enclose a large plant-
ing area with a knee-high fence you can step over. Animals will
respect the boundary because they encounter it at eye level.
In front-yard gardens or other areas where fences are not
practical, many gardeners use motion-detector sprinklers that
shoot bursts of water accompanied by clicking sounds when ani-
mals come within 35 feet. Although models such as the Contech
Scarecrow ($45; available at amazon.com) and the Havahart
Spray Away ($70; havahart.com) are somewhat pricey, they are
effective. They can even change the behavior patterns of animals
that have become habitual visitors.
If damage to your garden always happens at night, a solar-
powered motion-activated light can work well, especially if you
move it every few days so animals do not become accustomed
to its light pattern.
Most animals have acute senses of smell and taste, so you
also can try scent repellents should rabbits or raccoons try to
claim your garden as their territory. Small plastic bottles half-
filled with ammonia and placed among plants will repel most
wandering animals with one whiff, and ammonia-soaked rags
stuffed into burrows may send other animals packing, too. Hot
pepper sprays applied around the garden’s edge can help deter
veggie-eating mammals, but they must taste it or get it on their
paws first. Rather than dousing your salad greens with strong
flavors, try soaking strips of cloth in a tea made from cayenne
pepper and garlic and placing the strips among plants that are
being damaged.
P E AC E F U L CO E X I S T E N C E W I T H W I L D L I F E
Most of us love to watch wildlife, but we don’t want them
getting the wrong idea about who’s in charge. Accidental invita-
tions to come back for repeat visits, such as leaving uneaten pet
food outdoors or not securing garbage can lids, are how wildlife
problems often begin. Never feed wild animals because doing
so leads to population increases. If you often see critters having
breakfast beneath your bird feeder, consider suspending feeding
during the summer months, when birds can find plenty of food
on their own.
—BARBARA PLEASANT
 WorldMags.net GARDEN TIPS & TECHNIQUES

Defend Your Beds with Homemade Critter Cages

One 6-foot-long piece of 2-by-4-inch mesh, 5- or 6-foot-wide flexible
welded wire fencing, or 12 feet of 36-inch-wide poultry netting
(chicken wire) or hardware cloth Fold 3 Fold 2 Fold 3
Lightweight bolt cutters
12 plastic zip ties
Heavy-duty work gloves
Fold 1 Fold 1 6’
1. Working on a level surface, cut a 6-foot-long piece from 5- or 6-foot-wide
flexible wire fencing (6-foot-wide fencing is hard to find). If you are using nar-
rower poultry netting or hardware cloth, cut two 6-foot-long pieces and use zip
ties to fasten them together to make one large piece, 6 feet long and 6 feet wide.
2. Fashion the square of wire fencing, poultry netting or hardware cloth into
a box by making two 14-inch-deep cuts on each end, each one 14 inches in from Fold 3 Fold 2 Fold 3
the outer edge.
3. Bend the sides of the cage at right angles, allowing the flaps to stay straight.
Then bend down the large middle piece of fencing at each end, at right angles. 5 to 6 feet
4. One at a time, bend the cut flaps inward, over the top piece. As each end Blue = Cut
is bent into place, secure it with two or more zip ties. Red = Fold
5. Place the cage over a bed or planting in need of protection from animals,
pressing firmly so the edges are slightly buried in soil or mulch.

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Circle #26; see card pg 72

WorldMags.net Mother Earth Living May/June 2014 83
 GARDEN ESSENTIALS
WorldMags.net

Growing,
Harvesting
and Using Basil
Discover the health benefits and
many uses of easy-to-grow basil.
THE SAVORY, VERDANT FLAVOR OF BASIL is memorable: I still
remember the first time I tasted it. It transformed an otherwise
plain tomato salad into an extraordinary taste sensation. Thanks
to that introduction to this amazing herb, the Italian restaurant
serving up this little bit of heaven still stands out in my memory.
Basil accompanies tomatoes beautifully—both in the garden
and on the plate—and it’s the star in traditional pesto, but this
aromatic and delicious plant has even more to offer than its
striking flavor.

A B R I E F H I S TO R Y O F B A S I L
Most people associate basil with Italian cooking, so it may
come as a surprise to learn that basil was first grown in India,
East Asia and Africa. It has since spread throughout the world
and plays a prominent role in Thai, Vietnamese and, of course,
Italian cuisine.
Its name originates from an old Greek word, basilikon, which
means “royal” and reflects the ancient Greek reverence for the
herb they held sacred. In India, basil is considered a symbol of
hospitality. In Italy, it symbolizes love.
GROWING BASIL
Although basil comes in many varieties, they all generally
need the same care. Basils are sun-lovers that thrive in full sun
and well-drained soil enriched with compost or manure. Basil is
not at all cold-hardy, so plants should be started indoors. Before
planting it outdoors, wait until all signs of frost have passed.
Although it loves heat, basil needs plenty of water. It will also
grow indoors if given adequate light.
Basil plants grow 1 to 2 feet tall. They can vary in taste
depending on variety, with flavor notes ranging from cinna-
mon and clove to lemon or lime. Leaf color also varies from
bright green to dark purple by variety. Try classic, deep green
‘Genovese’ for classic pesto; purple ‘Red Rubin’ for its spice; and
light green ‘Lemon’ basil for the incredible aroma. Pinch off the
edible flower heads regularly (add them to salads or stir-fries) to
encourage the plant to put its energy into growing thick foliage.
Sun-loving basil is
easy to grow, provided
it gets plenty of light.
HARVESTING AND USING BASIL
Although its flavor is strong, basil is versatile in the kitchen.
Try its leaves in soups, salads, stews, pesto, pasta and tomato
sauce; alongside tomatoes, peppers and eggplant; and in coconut
milk-based curries. It is best to add the fresh leaves just before
eating as they lose their robust flavor and aroma after heating.
Harvest the leaves any time after the plant looks like it can spare
a few; however, they bruise easily so be careful when harvesting.
While the temptation to overharvest exists, try to leave at least a
few leaves on your plant at any time.
Most basils are prolific producers. To preserve basil, most
cooks prefer freezing, as dried basil tastes very different from
fresh. It’s easy to capture the fresh flavor of basil by puréeing
the leaves in a food processor in a base of water or olive oil (not
both) and pouring the mixture into ice cube trays. Once frozen,
bag the basil ice cubes for future use in cooked soups, stews and
sauces. You might also want to dry whole basil leaves to make
tea. Once the plant is mature, you can dry the leaves by cutting
the stalk at the base of the plant and hanging it upside down for
a few days or until the leaves are completely dry.

84 motherearthliving.com WorldMags.net
 WorldMags.net GARDEN ESSENTIALS

PAIN RELIEVER: Eugenol, one of the ben-

eficial compounds in basil, has been studied
extensively for its ability to fight pain by
blocking cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes—
the same mechanism aspirin and ibuprofen
use to alleviate pain. To try basil as a home
remedy for a headache or sore muscles, brew
basil tea by adding a teaspoon of dried basil
or a tablespoon of fresh basil leaves to a cup PINEAPPLE
of boiled water and letting it steep for 10 BASIL QUINOA
minutes. Strain and drink. The combination of
pineapple and basil gives
BREATH REFRESHER: James Duke, author of this whole-grain side dish
The Green Pharmacy, recommends basil to a unique flavor. Quinoa only
freshen breath. Simply chew on a fresh basil takes about 15 minutes to
leaf or drink the basil tea mentioned above. cook, making it the ultimate
protein-, fiber- and nutrient-
INFECTION FIGHTER: Basil has been shown rich fast food.
to have excellent anti-infectious qualities.
Research in the journal Molecules found that 1 cup quinoa
natural volatile oils in basil inhibited mul- 11⁄2 cups water
tiple drug-resistant strains of E. coli bacteria. 2 tablespoons coconut oil,
(E. coli causes cramps, diarrhea and vomit- divided
ing linked to food poisoning.) Scientists 1 large handful fresh basil
demonstrated that an extract of basil seeds leaves, finely chopped
were effective in the laboratory against ¾ cup finely diced fresh
tuberculosis-causing bacteria, according to a pineapple
recent preliminary study published in BMC ½ teaspoon sea salt
Complementary and Alternative Medicine.
1. Combine quinoa, water
WARD OFF WARTS: Basil’s antiviral com- and 1 tablespoon coconut
pounds go to work when the crushed leaves oil in a medium pot. Bring
are applied to warts, according to Duke’s to a boil.
research. To treat warts, he recommends 2. Reduce heat to low and
crushing a fresh leaf or two, placing it on the simmer 15 to 20 minutes, or
wart, and covering with a bandage. Change until water is absorbed and
the compress daily for five to seven days. quinoa is totally soft (not al
dente).
BALANCE BLOOD PRESSURE: According to 3. In a mixing bowl, toss
Duke’s research, basil contains six natural together cooked quinoa,
compounds that reduce high blood pressure, remaining coconut oil, basil,
making it a great regular dietary addition for pineapple and salt until
anyone suffering from the condition. combined. Serve immediately.
Serves 4.
COOK AWAY CANCER: Exciting new research
published in the journal Molecular Medicine Adapted with permission from
found that an extract of basil halted ovarian the book 60 Seconds to Slim
cancer cell growth. Eating basil on a regular by Michelle Schoffro Cook,
basis may help reduce your chances of devel- available on page 89.
oping some cancers. >>
—MICHELLE SCHOFFRO COOK

WorldMags.net
Circle #38; see card pg 72
 WorldMags.net





GARDEN ESSENTIALS






 







 









 

 

 







































 


 





  BETTER THAN BUTTER
This recipe combines the many health
Circle #11; see card pg 72 Circle #17; see card pg 72 benefits of coconut oil (fat-burning,
thyroid-balancing and infection-killing)
and flax oil (liver-boosting, lymph-
R
cleansing and anti-inflammatory) with
the beneficial properties of basil. Serve

y!
Naturall
this soft spread on warm bread or
just-cooked vegetables. It’s simple to
make and keeps well in the fridge.
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½ cup organic extra virgin
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Olbas Oil is a blend of six essential 1 large handful fresh basil,
oils made from healing herbs: finely chopped
Peppermint Cajeput Eucalyptus Juniper Cloves Wintergreen
1 . In a small saucepan over low heat,
liquefy coconut oil. Immediately remove
from heat and add flax seed oil, stirring
There are 8 Olbas Remedies that provide effective and immediate relief. until well mixed.
Relieve Aches and Pains Cool Sore Throats 2 . Stir in basil.
SWISS FORMULA
Enhance Breathing Passages Calm Coughs 3 . Pour into a glass container with a lid
and refrigerate until firm. Cover.
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4 . Store in an airtight container in the
Watch the Movie refrigerator for up to 6 months.
"The Swiss
Makes about 1 cup.
Secret Weapon"
OlbasMovie.com HERBAL REMEDIES
Adapted with permission from the book
www.Olbas.com Weekend Wonder Detox by Michelle
Circle #28; see card pg 72 Schoffro Cook, available on page 89.
86 motherearthliving.com WorldMags.net
 WorldMags.net
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RESOURCES BOOKSHELF
WorldMags.net
Mother Earth Living Bookshelf
Health & Wellness
NEW 100 Organic Skin Care Recipes
Filled with all-natural ingredients like shea butter,
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Gardening
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I Love My Slow Cooker
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500 Time-Tested Home Remedies and
the Science Behind Them
Covering everything from insect bites, insomnia and
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Container Gardening
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The Joy of Gluten-Free, Sugar-Free
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Mother Earth Living May/June 2014 89
So Powerful It Can Jumpstart A Bus… And… It’s Half-Price For A Limited Time!
WorldMags.net
Portable Backup Power
That Fits In Your Pocket!
In today’s world we all seem to have multiple
electronic gadgets (that are extremely important to
us and our family) that must be charged over and
over.
And there are few things more frustrating than
realizing your cell phone, laptop or other mission-
critical device is dead (or almost dead) before you
head out the door for the day… because… you
forgot to charge it the night before.
Hi, Bill Heid, President of Solutions From
Science here with some absolutely amazing and
exciting news.
Let me explain:
As part of my mission to bring to market the
latest and greatest in off-the-grid gear, I literally
have to travel around the world. And I do so quite
frequently.
That being the case, and because I run several
companies, it is a must that I stay in touch with my
teams of employees back here in the states. And I
don’t know what your experience has been but, if
you’re “off the grid” when traveling like I am, you
KNOW that isn’t always easy… because…
Charging Your Devices Overseas
Can Present A Real Challenge!
)RUH[DPSOH,Q(XURSH\RX¶OO¿QGWZRGLIIHUHQW
kinds of plug-ins (one for Britain and another for
continental Europe) that are totally incompatible
with your American devices. Plus, you’ll need a
voltage converter, as well.
And in remote places like Belize or Costa Rica,
sometimes the power goes in and out with regular
frequency. Heck, even the Florida Keys can present
power challenges regularly.
Not to mention outages caused by other
emergency situations.
Not good. Not good at all when you have several
businesses, your family and scores of employees
relying on you to keep things moving forward.
So, for the last two years, I have been on a frantic
search (literally scouring the globe) looking for a
reliable, portable backup power solution. And to
be quite frank…
It Has Been Frustrating!
Don’t get me wrong. I’ve found several. But
no matter what the manufacturer says, if the unit is
light and small, it’s underpowered. Or, if the unit
is powerful, it’s way too heavy and bulky to be
practical… that is…
They Just Don’t Perform
As Described… UNTIL NOW!
Recently, due to a breakthrough in battery
technology (which I’ll discuss in a bit), I found a their predecessors… and… can be shaped to almost
personal, portable backup power unit that more any size or design needed. And that’s what makes
than lives up to every claim it makes. It’s called the Pocket Power Plus so powerful… yet… so
the…
Pocket Power Plus
This device is truly amazing and very cool.
First of all, it is truly compact. The unit is just a powerful, since April 2011…
little larger than an iPhone 5.
Second, it’s truly powerful. David Fink, our
chief electrical engineer at Solutions From Science,
jumpstarted his Harley after it had sat for 9 months.
If you know anything about old Harleys, you know the Pocket Power Plus.
that’s quite a feat.
Third, it’s truly portable. The unit comes in a
handy carrying case that contains everything you
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less than two pounds.
Those things—truly compact, truly powerful
and truly portable—were the main criteria I was
looking for. But the Pocket Power Plus not only
met that criteria, it exceeded my expectations more
than I ever could’ve imagined.
Here’s what makes this device the most amazing
personal, portable backup power system ever
developed:
‡It will charge ALL your electronic devices.
(With 16 different kinds of adapters, there’s no Pocket Power Plus Is So Powerful It Can Even
popular electronic gadget this device won’t be Jumpstart A Bus
compatible with. It even has a USB charging
port!) In any case, by now I’m sure you are wondering
‡,WZLOOUXQALL your electronic devices, too! how much the Pocket Power Plus costs. Well…
(For example, you can run: An iPad for 18 hours. Here’s Great News For Mother Earth Living
A Kindle for 32 hours. An iPhone for 64 hours. Readers:
An iPod for 150 hours. Or, you can even use it to The retail price of the unit is $229.00. However,
DOUBLE your laptop’s battery run time!) as a special, limited-time introductory offer, you can
get the Pocket Power Plus at…
‡7KHXQLWLVVPDOODQGFDQOLWHUDOO\¿WLQ\RXU
shirt or pants pocket! More Than Half-Off…
‡<RXFDQMXPSVWDUWQHDUO\any vehicle with the Just $99.97!
included jumper cables! (We’ve even jumpstarted Plus, if you order 2 or more Pocket Power
a bus!) Plus units, I’ll throw in free shipping and handling
‡   It’s a perfect backup power device for (which is $15.95 per unit.)
nearly any outdoors activities! (It’s also great AND... just to ease your mind, I also want you to
for business travelers… on the ground or in the know that I am shouldering all the risk with our…
air.)
90-Day “Guaranteed Tough”
‡:KHQSOXJJHGLQWRDVWDQGDUGZDOORXWOHWWKH 100% Money Back Warranty!
Pocket Power Plus charges in about 5 hours. It Here’s How It Works: Try out the Pocket
can also be charged by your automobile with the Power Plus under any conditions. If it fails to
included 12 volt DC adapter. perform as I’ve described here… or… it breaks or
‡   The Pocket Power Plus provides peace malfunctions in anyZD\MXVWUHWXUQLWWRP\RI¿FH
of mind when you add it to your vehicle’s and you’ll receive a prompt refund of your full
emergency kit! purchase price (less shipping and handling). No
hassles. No questions asked.
‡   ,W¶V QHDUO\ EXOOHWSURRI HOHFWULFDOO\« DQG For Fastest Service: Got to the web site below
much, much more! and click the “BUY NOW” button at the bottom of
Pretty amazing, don’t you agree? And… the page and enter code ML111…
Here’s What Makes www.PocketPowerPlus.com
This All Possible! For Fast Service: Have your credit card ready
Earlier I mentioned that there has been a and call the Priority Order Hotline at…
recent breakthrough in battery technology. The
breakthrough is an advanced type of battery that 1-877-327-0365
evolved from lithium-ion batteries. To Order By Check Or Money Order: Write
It’s called a Polymer Lithium-Ion Battery. your name and address on a plain piece of paper and
send it along with the total payment for the number
These batteries are much more powerful than of Pocket Power Plus units you want (plus $15.95
shipping and handling if ordering only one unit) to:
Solutions From Science, Inc.
compact and portable. Attn: ML111
These batteries are already starting to power 2200 Illinois Rt. 84
the next generation of battery-powered electric
vehicles. And get this, these batteries are so P.O. Box 518
Thomson, IL 61285
Checks and Money Orders should be made
They Have Been Responsible For Several payable to: Solutions From Science.
World Drag Racing Speed Records! One last thing: This special, more-than-half-
Now I hope you see why I’m so excited about off introductory offer on the Pocket Power Plus
is only good until our current supply runs out.
WorldMags.net
Circle #34; see card pg 72
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TO YOUR HEALTH
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