Time to shop for....

The most important day of the year to celebrate all of the wonderful mommies is right around the corner. May 13th everyone! That is two weeks away!

Head over to my website to look at all of the perfect items for every mom. Whether she needs a special dress for a luncheon or placemats for entertaining, we have something for everyone. My mom's favorite dress is Claire in Shocking Pink. Trust me - you won't see any problem areas with that pattern ;)

{I also have great gift cards which you can never go wrong with} Happy shopping! 

Insurance, building codes and rebuilding after a disaster

Q: Part of my home burned, and I'm repairing the large burned section of the home. County building codes require upgrades from what was originally there. Does my homeowners policy cover this added expense?

A: It depends. If your policy has what's called "law and ordinance coverage" -- it's often referred to as "L&O" or "upgrade coverage," then yes, your policy would address the added costs to make the required upgrades.

As a precaution, ask your agent or insurer if you already have the coverage or if you can add it to your policy.

Note: This is one of a series of common -- or in some cases, particularly unusual -- questions received by our consumer advocacy staff, who answer questions from consumers.


Got a question or insurance problem of your own? If you live in Washington, feel free to give us a call, toll-free at 1-800-562-6900. We'll do our best to help. (And if you live in another state or territory, here's a handy map that lists the contact info for your local insurance regulatory office.)

Erin McDermott Jewelry :: Giveaway!

Is it possible to get sick of FREE jewelry?? Methinks not...hence, I am pleased to announce a third great jewelry giveaway, three weeks in a row! {I will take peony bouquets and anything from J.Crew as thank you's} 

Erin McDermott of her namesake jewelry line reached out to me last week and I am smitten with her casually elegant designs at amazingly affordable prices! Based in Charlotte, NC, I officially fell in love when I read some of the things she likes via her about me section on her site: Converse, Sharpies and the names of paint colors...we are soul mates. Her materials for earrings, rings, bracelets and necklaces {including bridal and little girls} range from sterling silver to wood, and each piece is extremely versatile. There really is something for everyone - boho, elegant, traditional - you will certainly be able to find something you like......

.....which is why it's even more fabulous of Erin to offer a $100 gift certificate so you can choose pieces that match your own personal style! Here are some of my favorites {apparently I am really liking turquoise right now?}, but you have got to head over to her website and browse all of the designs. Just lovely!

To enter, all you have to do is like Erin's Facebook page - link HERE - and for an extra entry {which you must post separately} become a follower of, or let me know you already are a follower of, The Southern Eclectic. I'll run the giveaway through Wednesday evening :) Good luck! 

12 Reasons To Avoid GMOs

First, a little background: GMO stands for genetically modified organisms; some people also refer to them as GE (genetically engineered). According to the FDA, GMO foods are made using recombinant deoxyribonucleic acid (rDNA) technology. The agency commonly refers to them as "bioengineered foods," or foods that have undergone genetic modification, meaning they've been engineered and altered at the genetic level "using any technique, new or traditional."

Many years ago, I started reading studies about GMOs, and I discovered that most of the outcomes of the studies favored whoever was financing the research, which in most cases was the agrochemical companies. A few years later, I came across a book called The World According to Monsanto, by Marie-Monique Robin, and it was true eye-opener for me. Then, I read The Wheel of Life, by Debbie Barker from The Center for Food Safety, and I recommend this paper to anyone who wants a deeper understanding of the interconnectedness between food, climate, human rights, and economy.

Now I do everything I can, at home and at my restaurant, to avoid GMOs. It's not easy to do, since more than 80 percent of processed foods contain GMOs. Buying certified-organic food is the only way you can truly stay away from GMOs right now, since GMO foods are not labeled. But, honestly, the likelihood that GMO crops will cross-pollinate with organics gets higher every year as more and more GMOs are planted.

So, back to my list. Here are my reasons for avoiding GMO foods, compiled mostly from the sources named above:

Health harms.

1. GMOs are grown with toxic chemicals and resulting pesticide residues are known to be harmful to human health.

2. Research has shown that laboratory mammals fed GMOs suffer adverse effects that include damage to kidneys, liver, adrenal glands, spleen, and heart. Additionally, their immune systems were compromised and in some cases brain size was reduced.

Environmental harms.

3. GMO crops require huge amounts of chemicals that are harmful to soil, water, the atmosphere, and creatures. Although they are promoted as a technology to reduce pesticide usage, GM crops in the U.S. used greater than 26 percent more pesticides per acre in 2008 than non-GMO crops, based on U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) data.

4. GMOs are actually increasing the need for stronger and more poisonous pesticides. For example, one agrochemical company is awaiting USDA approval of corn and soybeans resistant to 2, 4-D, a chemical related to Agent Orange.

5. GMOs are causing a growing epidemic of "superweeds." These massive weeds have evolved a resistance to glyphosate, a chemical used on GM crops. Stronger toxic chemicals and soil-eroding tillage operations are required in order to eliminate superweeds.

6. GMOs contribute to global warming: GM crops require synthetic nitrogen fertilizers, which are responsible for approximately 60 percent of total emissions of nitrous oxide (a greenhouse gas nearly 300 times more potent than CO₂). GM crops use high amounts of fossil fuels through the production of synthetic nitrogen fertilizers.

7. GMO practices contaminate our organic and local food systems. A report titled, Gone to Seed, found that 50 percent or more of non-GMO corn, canola, and soybean seed have been contaminated with GM genes.

8. Beneficial insects can be harmed. A Cornell University study showed that monarch butterflies suffered higher mortality rates when consuming milkweed leaves dusted with the Bt toxin associated with GM crops. And recently, pesticides called neonicotinoids have been blamed for the collapsing bee populations.

Harms to social and human rights.

9. GMOs are promoted as way to feed the world and mitigate hunger; however, numerous studies demonstrate that the GM crops do not produce higher yields as claimed. As one example, a USDA publication reports that "GM crops do not increase the yield potential."

10. GMOs lead to corporate control over seed and food: Today only one company controls about 95 percent of GM seeds. This limits access to seeds, which are the center of food and life.

11. These large agri-corporations do not let farmers save seeds, a basic practice that has continued for centuries to ensure food security.

12. GMO agriculture is an extension of current industrial-farming practices that have resulted in the loss of family farms and farmer livelihoods around the globe.

For all of these reasons, and more that I'm just not thinking of right now, we at GustOrganics choose another path. We believe organic agriculture is the only way to go. Organic agriculture has equal or higher yields than factory farming. Organics don't contain any synthetic hormones, antibiotics, chemicals or GMOs. And independent studies prove that organic food has more vitamins, nutrients and antioxidants than conventional food (which, at this point, is just another way of saying GMO food).

Talk to your friends about GMOs and help them to be aware of the facts. And go to justlabelit.org and help send 1 million signatures to the Food and Drug Administration to let them know that we want GMO foods labeled.

Source:  http://www.huffingtonpost.com/maria-rodale/12-reasons-to-avoid-gmos_b_1243723.html

Beyond Ötzi: European Evolutionary History and its Relevance to Diet. Part I

In the previous post, I explained that Otzi descended in large part from early adopters of agriculture in the Middle East or nearby.  What I'll explain in further posts is that Otzi was not a genetic anomaly: he was part of a wave of agricultural migrants that washed over Europe thousands of years ago, spreading their genes throughout.  Not only that, Otzi represents a halfway point in the evolutionary process that transformed Paleolithic humans into modern humans.

Did Agriculture in Europe Spread by Cultural Transmission or by Population Replacement?

There's a long-standing debate in the anthropology community over how agriculture spread throughout Europe.  One camp proposes that agriculture spread by a cultural route, and that European hunter-gatherers simply settled down and began planting grains.  The other camp suggests that European hunter-gatherers were replaced (totally or partially) by waves of agriculturalist immigrants from the Middle East that were culturally and genetically better adapted to the agricultural diet and lifestyle.  These are two extreme positions, and I think almost everyone would agree at this point that the truth lies somewhere in between: modern Europeans are a mix of genetic lineages, some of which originate from the earliest Middle Eastern agriculturalists who expanded into Europe, and some of which originate from indigenous hunter-gatherer groups including a small contribution from neanderthals.  We know that modern-day Europeans are not simply Paleolithic mammoth eaters who reluctantly settled down and began farming. 

Read more »

Cannon Lewis Jewelry WINNER!

Brittany Williams - you won! Email hello@sheridanfrench.com with your details and I will put you in touch with Cannon. Congratulations!!

MY WALK ON THE WILD SIDE, FOR WEEDS

Awwww today I went out on my favorite back road, a world away from bizzyness of life, where a breath of air is as refreshing as life itself!


I was eager to pick up some food, while I was there for my run, to come back and make my medicine via juice! I pick dandelions and nettles as well as wild mint!


Well it appears that Mr Frosty came last night and sought to steal them away! I had a bit of low and wrinkled brow face (NOT) on for a second. Then I saw that he did not get most of them! Wooohooooo Celebrate good times cmon!


So I picked bunches and bunches for my juicy juice lunches. As I settled down in to pick them, with gloved hand yes!, my bottom side hit some nettles behind me. Even through my leggings I felt them. Here I was feeling a tad bum (hahahaha) about this (not really just making it fun) and that I might be itching up a storm.


Well, let that be a lesson to me. Moral of the story, don't fuss bout stuff that has not happened! All good.


I have lovely juice coming soon as well as the kombucha I stopped to pick up (am so happy it is back and boy is it fizzier than ever!)


So we staved Mr. Frosty for another day! Ahhhhh the bliss of wild green juice! Blissfulll day to you too!

Discounted Airfare & Rental Car Rates Available!

Looking to minimize your travel budget for the upcoming NCTOH? No problem – we’ve negotiated discounted travel airfare to and from the Kansas City International Airport (KCI) for all NCTOH participants. When booking your tickets, make sure to check these deals out:

> > Delta Airlines
Valid Travel Dates: August 10 – 20, 2012
When booking online at http://www.delta.com/, select the ‘Meeting Event Code’ option and enter the ‘Meeting ID’ discount code NM9BY before searching for flight options. To make reservations by phone, call Delta Airlines directly at (800) 328-1111 and make sure to mention the same code.

> > American Airlines Valid Travel Dates: August 7 – 22, 2012
When booking online at http://www.aa.com/, enter the ‘Promotion Code’ 2282BE before searching for flight options. To make reservations by phone, call American Airlines directly at (800) 433-1790 and make sure to mention the same code.

Additionally, we've secured discounted rates on rental cars!

> > HertzValid Pick-Up Dates: August 5 – 24, 2012
When booking online at http://www.hertz.com/, select the ‘I Have a Discount’ box and enter the ‘Convention Number (CV)’ 022L3456 before searching for options. To make reservations by phone, call Hertz directly at (800) 654-2240 and make sure to mention the same code.

Kansas City International Airport (KCI) is located approximately 18 miles from the event’s host hotels. For additional information on ground transportation options, including other rental car options, shuttles and taxis, visit http://www.tobaccocontrolconference.org/ and click on the “Transportation” tab. 

Insurance and fallen trees

Q: Will my insurance pay to repair my neighbor's home if my tree falls on his home?

A: It may not have to. Typically, a homeowner's own insurance coverage pays for such damage, unless you were negligent and your negligence caused the tree to fall.

Say the tree was obviously diseased or damaged and posed a clear risk to your neighbor's home, for example. In such cases, you could be found negligent and your insurer would cover the claim.


Note: This is one of a series of common -- or in some cases, particularly unusual -- questions received by our consumer advocacy staff, who answer questions from consumers.



Got a question or insurance problem of your own? If you live in Washington, feel free to give us a call, toll-free at 1-800-562-6900. We'll do our best to help. (And if you live in another state or territory, here's a handy map that lists the contact info for your local insurance regulatory office.)

Teen Suicide

By: Candice Jenkins, Licensed Therapist

EXTENT OF THE PROBLEM

Death brings sadness to family and friends, but when the death of a young person is self-inflicted it is devastating to those left behind.  Learning about what might lead an adolescent to suicide may help those who have lived through it and may help prevent further tragedies.

According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness, suicide is the third leading cause of death for young people between the ages of 15 and 24 years.  The rate of suicides and suicide attempts increases during the adolescent years.

Adolescence is a stressful time.   It is a time of major change - changes in how  one looks, thinks and feels.  This stress can be compounded by major life changes such as parents’ divorce, family move, parents’ job loss or a family member’s military deployment to a war zone.  Coupled with the pressure to succeed and be accepted by others, an adolescent’s coping and problem-solving abilities may be compromised and can lead to poor decision making.   To some, it may appear that their problems are too large or embarrassing to overcome and the only solution is suicide.

  

RISK FACTORS

Some risk factors are:

• a family history of suicide
• prior suicide attempt or exposure to suicidal behavior of others, including family, peers, in the news or in fiction stories
• undesirable life events or recent losses
• family violence, emotional, physical or sexual abuse
• lack of a social network
• individual or family history of substance abuse.
• confusion about sexuality, especially in the context of an unsupportive family/network or a hostile school environment
• firearm in the home
• one or more mental health issues

These factors may change over time.   Adults need to remember not to minimize or discount what their adolescent is going through and to keep the lines of communication open. 

SIGNS OF CONCERN

There are adults who think that an adolescent saying he or she is going to kill themselves is just a desire for attention.  It’s important to realize that if  these statements are ignored,  the feelings, thoughts, and behaviors leading to the statements may escalate and increase the chance of the individual hurting themselves.  Getting attention in the form of crisis visits, doctor’s appointments or hospitalization is not usually something that adolescents want. What they are saying is that they are in emotional pain and want help.

What may cause adults to be confused is that the signs of suicidal feelings, thoughts or behavior are often the same as that of depression.  The signs below are ones that might be helpful in identifying adolescents who are at risk of attempting suicide, especially when combined with risk factors outlined above.

• changes in eating and sleeping habits
• loss of interest in usual activities
• withdrawal from a friends and family members
• acting out behaviors and running away
• alcohol and drug use
• neglect of personal appearance
• unnecessary risk-taking
• preoccupation with death and dying
• increased physical complaint frequently associated with emotional stress
• loss of interest in school or schoolwork
• feelings of boredom
• difficulty concentrating
• feelings of wanting to die
• lack of response to praise
• indicates plans or efforts toward plans to die by suicide including verbalizing a desire to die
• gives or throws away favorite possessions
• verbal hints or suicide notes

PARENTS’ ROLE

As is seen, many of these signs of increased suicide risk are also signs of depression.  That is why it is important that a parent speak to their child when any of these signs are observed.  It may be uncomfortable and parents may be reluctant to ask adolescents, but it is important that the teen know that someone is paying attention to them and is willing to listen. Parents are sometimes concerned that they may “give the idea” to their teen and it is quite the opposite.  Bringing up the subject without showing shock or disapproval is one of the most helpful things that can be done.  It shows the teen that you are taking them seriously and responding to their distress.   If a teen is not comfortable talking to a parent, find someone who they are comfortable talking to—another family member, a member of the clergy or a school counselor.   If they are contemplating suicide, arrange for professional help.  If the threat is immediate, take the person to an emergency room or contact a crisis center.  If a parent notices some of the risk factors or other signs and is uncertain how to respond, call a crisis service, suicide hotline, or local mental health center for consultation with a professional who is experienced with suicide assessment and prevention.

According to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) it is important to learn the warning signs of teenage suicide in order to prevent an attempt.  This is why it is so important to keep the lines of communication open and to rely on how well you as a parent know your child.  Studies have shown that recognition and early intervention of mental and substance use disorders is the most effective way to prevent suicide and suicidal behavior.  Remember that most suicidal adolescents do not want death; they just want the pain to stop. 

Candice Jenkins has worked with adolescents for over 20 years. She's been with Colonial Behavioral Health since 2010 and previously worked for Hampton-Newport News Community Services Board.

Lessons From Ötzi, the Tyrolean Ice Man. Part III

There are two reasons why I chose this time to write about Otzi.  The first is that I've been looking for a good excuse to revisit human evolutionary history, particularly that of Europeans, and what it does and doesn't tell us about the "optimal" human diet.  The second is that Otzi's full genome was sequenced and described in a recent issue of Nature Communications (1).  A "genome" is the full complement of genes an organism carries.  So what that means is that researchers have sequenced almost all of his genes. 

Read more »

Tick Treatment

Natural Home Made Cost Effective Tick Treatment

Fortunately, in our neck of the woods (and our geographical location) we do not have wood ticks. I know, many of you now think how lucky we are, but believe me, we have all other kinds of stuff that makes our lives miserable :)

But, do not think for a moment that this means I know nothing about the continuous battle with these critters, I was born and lived in Czech Republic, country with huge wood tick population.

And because of that, people down there have been trying all sorts of treatments and prevention, for years, and sometimes come up with great, effective stuff.

Since in  our household, we are all for the natural - environment friendly - cost effective solutions, I thought of sharing one such treatment here. 

It has been tried out by a good friend of mine Lenka on all kinds of her numerous pets. It has also been tested by my mom on her cats and several of our retired huskies, who reside with my parents. I got the recipe from my mom and both her and Lenka swear by it.

Last summer, I tried it out as repellent on some of the dogs, to see how it would work against mosquitos (you see, here we are with the suckers that complicate our life over here!) and it actually did work!

So, since for many of you around the globe the wood tick season has officially started, let me present you my two cents.

Ingredients:

• Rosemary (either 20g (or 1oz.) of dried or a handful of fresh)
• 1 table spoon of white wine vinegar
• 1 liter (4 cups ) of water

Directions:

1. Let water boil. Set aside from the stove, add rosemary and let cool down under a lid. 

2. After it cools down completely, filter the contents. You can use a regular medium to large sifter. 

3. Add white wine vinegar and stir well. Fuse into jar or bottle, close and store in fridge. 

For easy use you can pour the infusion into a sprayer bottle. A recycled sprayer bottle from any cleaning detergent, properly washed out, is fine, or you can buy it in a gardening shop. 

You can also pour part of it into a smaller sprayer bottle and take it with you on your travels, hiking, camping or other trip outdoors.

You can spray your pet (make sure to protect their eyes and nose) and yourself as well. 

If you decide to try it, let me know how it worked!

 

Source:  http://huskymusher.blogspot.se/2012/04/natural-home-made-cost-effective-tick.html

Coconut Oil

80 Uses for Coconut Oil was by far my most viewed post of 2011. The response to the information I compiled blew me away. I am humbled by how much of an impact this post has made in the health and wellness scene. It has been reposted far and wide and it warms my heart to know that so many people are learning more and more about this beautiful oil.

Knowing how important it is to provide accurate and useful information, I decided to take my post to a new level. I have spent countless hours reading through all of the comments on this post (as well as those made on the numerous sites it is reprinted on). I have researched far and wide. And what I bring to you today is a much improved post on the benefits and uses of Coconut Oil. I have revamped some of the existing information, re-categorized the uses, and alphabetized everything to make it much more user friendly. The best part? There are now 160 uses for coconut oil listed. You read that right! I doubled the number of incredible uses for coconut oil.

I hope you enjoy this post and discover even more ways to use this amazing wonder of nature.

Photo Credit: Nature's Health Foods

Coconut Oil – An Overview

Offering a myriad of health benefits, coconut oil is affordable, readily available and completely natural. I use it for EVERYTHING. Literally. I buy it in 5 gallon increments and keep it all over my house. I even have some in the car. So here is a little information to inspire you to check out this amazing oil!

Coconut Oil Is:

• Anti-bacterial (kills bacteria that cause ulcers, throat infections, urinary tract infections, gum diseases, and other bacterial infections)
• Anti-carcinogenic (coconut oil has antimicrobial properties so it effectively prevents the spread of cancer cells and enhances the immune system)
• Anti-fungal (kills fungi and yeast that lead to infection)
• Anti-inflammatory (appears to have a direct effect in suppressing inflammation and repairing tissue, and it may also contribute by inhibiting harmful intestinal microorganisms that cause chronic inflammation.)
• Anti-microbial/Infection Fighting (the medium-chain fatty acids and monoglycerides found in coconut oil are the same as those in human mother's milk, and they have extraordinary antimicrobial properties. By disrupting the lipid structures of microbes, they inactivate them. About half of coconut oil consists of lauric acid. Lauric acid, its metabolite monolaurin and other fatty acids in coconut oil are known to protect against infection from bacteria, viruses, yeast, fungi and parasites. While not having any negative effect on beneficial gut bacteria, coconut oil inactivates undesirable microbes.)
• An Antioxidant (protects against free-radical formation and damage)
• Anti-parasitic (fights to rid the body of tapeworms, lice and other parasites)
• Anti-protozoa (kills giardia, a common protozoan infection of the gut)
• Anti-retroviral (kills HIV and HLTV-1)
• Anti-viral (kills viruses that cause influenza, herpes, measles, hepatitis C, SARS, AIDS, and other viruses)
• Infection fighting
• Has no harmful for discomforting side effects
• Known to improve nutrient absorption (easily digestible; makes vitamins and minerals more available to the body)
• Nontoxic to humans and animals

 

Daily Dosage:

Here is a chart outlining the recommended daily dosage of virgin coconut oil for persons over the age of 12. Coconut oil may be consumed by children under 12 but it is advisable to check with a healthcare practitioner on the proper dosage. Any good naturopath will have the information at the ready. (Starting at 12 months of age, I gave my daughter one teaspoon per day and she weighed about 16 pounds at that time.)

Weight in pounds/kilograms	Number of tablespoons of coconut oil daily
175+/79+	4
150+ /68+	3 1/2
125+ / 57+	3
100+/ 45+	2 1/2
75+ / 34+	2
50+ / 23+	1 1/2
25+ / 11+	1

Type of Coconut Oil to Use:

• Virgin (unrefined) coconut oil tastes and smells coconutty and is great for cooking and baking where you want that flavor. You can use it for anything but it will impart a coconut taste (mild) and odor (pleasant in my book)! Unrefined coconut oil retains the most nutritional value and is superior to refined oil.
• Expeller pressed (refined) coconut oil can be used for anything. It does not have a coconutty smell or taste. It is still outstanding to use but does lose some of it’s health properties during the refining process.
• Food grade should always be used.

  

160 Uses for Coconut Oil

Coconut Oil for Personal Hygiene/Body

1.   Age Spots (also known as liver spots) – applying coconut oil directly to the age spot will help it fade.

2.   After Shave – coconut oil will help heal your skin after shaving without clogging pores. Great for razor burn!

3.   Baldness – apply three times a day to affected area of hair loss. Coconut oil supports cell regeneration.

4.   Birth Marks – can be used after a laser removal treatment to aid in healing. Can also be applied after an apple cider vinegar treatment to help support and aid the fading process.

5.   Body Scrub – mix coconut oil and sugar together and rub all over! Rinse off and your skin will be super soft! You can add in essential oils if you would like a specific smell.

6.   Bruises – applied directly to the bruise, coconut oil enhances the healing process by reducing swelling and redness.

7.   Bug Bites – when applied directly to a bug bite, coconut oil can stop the itching and burning sensation as well as hasten the healing process.

8.   Burns – apply to burn site immediately and continue applying until healed. Will reduce the chances of permanent scarring and promotes healing.

9.   Chapstick – just rub a little into lips and it not only acts as a softening agent but it also has an SPF of about 4 so you get a little protection!

10. Cradle Cap – having issues with dry skin on your baby’s scalp? Coconut oil will not only nourish your baby’s skin, it also helps eliminate cradle cap. Just rub a teaspoon onto scalp daily.

11. Dandruff – coconut oil soaks into the scalp moisturizing dry skin and relieves symptoms of dandruff. It also helps to control oil secretion from the scalp, another leading cause of dandruff.

12. Deodorant – coconut oil alone can be used as a deodorant, but even more effective in combination with cornstarch/arrowroot powder and baking soda!

13. Diaper Salve – very comforting on a rashy bum with no harsh chemicals. Also safe for cloth diapers.

14. Exfoliator – coconut oil mixed with sugar or sea salt is a very nourishing and effective exfoliator and safe to use all over the body.

15. Eye cream – apply under the eyes to reduce puffiness, bags and wrinkles. Use on the lids in the evening.

16. Face Wash/ Soap – mix equal parts coconut oil with olive oil, almond oil, avocado oil and castor oil and use in place of soap when washing your face. Wet face, rub oil in and leave on for two minutes, rinse and pat dry. One teaspoon should be adequate.

17. Hair conditioner/ Deep Treatment - use as a leave-in hair conditioner by applying a teaspoon of coconut oil to your ends and then running your fingers through your hair to distribute the rest! For a deeper treatment, rub in a tablespoon of coconut oil onto your dry scalp and gently work through to the ends. Put a shower cap on to prevent transfer onto bed linens and leave on overnight.

18. Hair Gel/ Defrizzer – rub a little between your palms and either scrunch into hair (for curly hair) or finger comb in through from scalp to ends (for wavy/straight hair).

19. Healing - when applied on scrapes and cuts, coconut oil forms a thin, chemical layer which protects the wound from outside dust, bacteria and virus. Coconut oil speeds up the healing process of bruises by repairing damaged tissues. Plus, it smells a heck-of-a-lot better than anything from the pharmacy.

20. Lubricant – it is an all-natural, perfectly safe personal lubricant. Not compatible with latex!

21. Makeup Remover – use a cotton swab and a dab of coconut oil and you would be amazed at how well it works!

22. Massage Oil – pretty simple; grab some and rub!

23. Moisturizer – simply scoop some out of the jar and apply all over your body, including neck and face.

24. Mole Remover – when applied after an apple cider vinegar compress for several weeks, moles have been known to “slide off” or just disappear.

25. Nipple Cream – works great to nourish cracked, sore or dry nipples. Apply to a cotton ball and leave on your nipples between feedings.

26. Oily Skin Fix – prone to oily skin or an oily T-zone? Use a pea sized amount underneath makeup or alone to reduce the appearance of oil.

27. Pre Shampoo Treatment for Hair – rub a little into scalp and hair before shampooing. This is especially useful for those with course or frizzy hair.

28. Pre-Shave – coconut oil will prep skin for the pending damage caused by shaving.

29. Skin Problems – coconut oil relieves skin problems such as psoriasis, dermatitis, and eczema.

30. Stretch Mark Cream – coconut oil is great at nourishing damaged skin. It may not be the magic stretch mark cure but it will help.

31. Sun Burn Relief – rub liberal amounts of coconut oil into the affected area.

32. Sunscreen – see my post on natural sunscreen for more detailed information.

33. Swimmers Ear – mix garlic oil and coconut oil and put a few drops in affected ear for about 10 minutes. Do this 2-3 times a day and it usually works within one or two days.

34. Tattoo Healing and Moisturizer – continued use of coconut oil on tattoos will help keep the pigment from fading. Used on new tattoos, coconut will hasten the healing process and decrease the chance of infection.

35. Toothpaste – there are numerous recipes out there but I just mix coconut oil and baking soda and dab a little of the mix on my toothbrush.

36. Wrinkle Prevention and Wrinkle Reducer – rubbing coconut oil on winkles and sagging skin helps strengthen the connective tissues to bring back that youthful look!

Coconut Oil for General Health and Wellness

37. Breastfeeding – for breastfeeding moms, consuming 3 ½ tablespoons of coconut oil daily will enrich the milk supply. 

38. Bones and Teeth – coconut oil aids in the absorption of calcium and magnesium leading to better development of bones and teeth.

39. Digestion - the saturated fats in coconut oil help control parasites and fungi that cause indigestion and other digestion related problems such as irritable bowel syndrome. The fat in coconut oil also aids in the absorption of vitamins, minerals and amino acids, making you healthier all around.

40. Energy Boost – coconut oil boosts energy and endurance making it a great supplement for athletes as well as those needed a quick pick me up.

41. Fitness - coconut oil has been proven to stimulate your metabolism, improve thyroid function, and escalate energy levels, all of which help decrease your unwanted fat while increasing muscle.

42. Improves insulin secretion and utilization of blood glucose making it great for both diabetics and non-diabetic.

43. Lung Function – increases the fluidity of cell surfaces.

44. Nausea – rub some coconut oil on the inside for the wrist and forearm to calm an upset stomach.

45. Nose bleeds - coconut oil can prevent nose bleeding that is caused by sensitivity to weather such as extreme heat and extreme cold. This condition happens when the nasal passages become dry because of cold or dry air resulting to burns and cracks in the mucus membranes so bleeding happens. To prevent this just put coconut oil in you nostrils. Coat your finger with coconut oil and then lie down and coat your finger inside your nose. Doing this will strengthen and protect the capillaries in the nasal passages. A Vitamin C supplement will also help prevent nose bleeding.

46. Oil pulling with coconut oil offers a two for one health benefit!

47. Stress Relief - relieve mental fatigue by applying coconut oil to the head in a circular, massaging motion. The natural aroma of coconuts is extremely soothing thus helping to lower your stress level.

48. Vitamin and nutrient absorption

49. Weight loss - the saturated fats contribute to weight loss and controlling cravings. Also increases metabolic rate.

Coconut Oil for Health Problems (when taken internally it is known for aiding, preventing, relieving or even curing these health issues)

50. Acid reflux/indigestion aid if taken after a meal

51. Adrenal fatigue

52. Allergies (seasonal hay fever)

53. Alzheimer’s/Dementia

54. Asthma, even in children

55. Autism

56. Bowel function

57. Bronchial Infections

58. Cancer (has been shown to prevent colon and breast cancer in laboratory
     tests)

59. Candida Albicans

60. Cholesterol - improves HDL ('good' cholesterol) to LDL ('bad' cholesterol)
     ratio in people with high cholesterol

61. Chronic Fatigue

62. Crohns Disease and resulting inflammation

63. Circulation/feeling cold all the time

64. Colds and Flus

65. Constipation

66. Cystic Fibrosis

67. Depression

68. Diabetes - helps keep blood sugar levels stable and/or helps with
     cravings

69. Dysentery

70. Eczema – in addition to taking it internally, many have success applying
     it externally, but some don't

71. Edema

72. Energy boost

73. Epilepsy (known to reduce epileptic seizures)

74. Fever Support

75. Flaky, Dry Skin

76. Gallbladder disease and pain

77. Gas

78. H. pylori

79. Head Lice

80. Heart Disease (protects arteries from injury that causes atherosclerosis)

81. Hemorrhoids (can applied externally or internally twice a day)

82. HIV

83. Hot Flashes

84. Hyperthyroidism

85. Immune System Builder

86. Irritable Bowel Syndrome

87. Jaundice

88. Kidney Disease

89. Kidney Stones (aids in dissolving them)

90. Liver Disease

91. Lung Disease

92. Malnutrition

93. Mental Clarity

94. Menstruation Relief regarding pain/cramps and heavy blood flow

95. Migraines (with regular use)

96. Mononucleosis

97. Osteoporosis

98. Pancreatitis

99. Parasites

100. Periodontal Disease and tooth decay

101. Prostate Enlargement (benign prostatic hyperplasia)

102. Rickets

103. Skin problems

104. Scurvy

105. Stomach Ulcers

106. Toenail fungus

107. Thrush

108. Thyroid Function (regulates an overactive or underactive thyroid)

109. Ulcerative Colitis

110. Underactive thyroid gland - results have shown subsequent thyroid
       blood tests becoming normal after ingesting coconut oil daily

111. Urinary Tract Infections (Bladder Infections)

Coconut Oil and Health Problems (when applied topically it is known for aiding, relieving, or even curing these health issues)

112. Acne

113. Allergies/Hay Fever – rub a little inside the nostrils for quick relief. The
      pollen will cling to the oil.

114. Athletes foot

115. Back pain/sore muscles

116. Boils and cysts

117. Canker sores

118. Cellulite

119. Circumcision healing – although I am personally against circumcision, I  
       have read that coconut oil is a really great healer for this.

120. Decongestant – rub coconut oil on the chest and under the nose when
       congested from a cold or allergies

121. Ear infection – place a few drops inside the ear twice daily for relief from
       pain. Also fights the infection itself.

122. Genital Warts (through topical application over 6 weeks, and coconut oil
       enemas twice a day depending on the location of the warts)

123. Gum Disease and Gingivitis (use as a toothpaste or rub directly on
       gums)

124.Herpes (applied topically and taken internally)

125.Hives (reduces the itch and swelling

126. Pink eye (applied around and in the eye)

127. Ringworm

128. Toothache

129. Warts

Coconut Oil and Cooking

130. Butter Substitute - use 1 cup to 1 cup ratio when replacing butter in
      recipes with coconut oil.

131. Nutritional Supplement – melt and add to smoothies.

132. Replacement for butter/lard/Crisco/PAM in its solid form for greasing
      pans, pie crusts, etc.

133. Replacement for various oils in liquid form – baking, cooking, sautéing,
      etc.

  

Coconut Oil and Pets/Animals

Check with your veterinarian but the recommended dosage for animals is 1/4 teaspoon for every 10 pounds of body weight twice daily.

134. Aids healing of digestive disorders like inflammatory bowel syndrome
      and colitis

135. Aids in arthritis or ligament problems

136. Aids in elimination of hairballs and coughing

137. Applied topically, promotes the healing of cuts, wounds, hot spots, dry 
      skin and hair, bites and stings

138. Clears up skin conditions such as eczema, flea allergies, contact
      dermatitis, and itchy skin

139. Disinfects cuts and promotes wound healing

140. Great for dogs and cats for general wellness. Just add a teaspoon to
       their water bowl daily.

141. Helps prevent or control diabetes

142. Helps sedentary dogs feel energetic

143. Helps reduce weight, increases energy

144. Improves digestion and nutrient absorption

145. Makes coats become sleek and glossy, and deodorizes doggy odor

146. Medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) have been shown to improve brain
        energy metabolism and decrease the amyloid protein buildup that
       results in brain lesions in older dogs.

147. Prevents and treats yeast and fungal infections, including candida

148. Reduces allergic reactions and improves skin health

149. Reduces or eliminates bad breath in dogs

150. Regulates and balance insulin and promotes normal thyroid function

Other Uses for Coconut Oil

151. Chewing Gum in Hair Remover – just rub some coconut oil over the
       stuck chewing gum, leave in for about 30 minutes, then roll the gum
       between your fingertip. Voila! It’s out!

152. Goo Gone - just mix equal parts coconut oil and baking soda into a
       paste. Apply to the “sticky” area and let it set for a minute. Then scrub
       off with an old toothbrush or the scrubby side of a sponge.

153. Insect repellent – mix coconut oil with peppermint oil extract and rub it
       all over exposed skin. Keeps insects off better than anything with DEET!
       Tons safer too.

154. Moisturizing and cleaning leather products

155. Oiling wood cutting boards and wood bowls

156. Polishing Bronze - all you have to do is rub a little oil into a cotton
       towel and then wipe down the statue. It cleans and helps deepen the
       color of your bronze.

157. Polish Furniture - coconut oil with a little bit of lemon juice to polish
      wood furniture. However, I recommend you test it first on a very small,
      unobtrusive part of your furniture to make sure it works the way you’d like.

158. Seasoning animal hide drums

159. Seasoning cookware

160. Soap making – coconut oil can be used as one of the fats in soap.

Did I miss any? Do you use coconut oil for something not on my list? Please add it in the comments. I am always excited to find new ways to implement coconut oil!

I have also written several other posts about coconut oil that you may be interested in reading. A few are listed here but please check my Coconut Health page regularly as I update that with my twice monthly posts related to coconut oil:

·         Coconut Oil Unleashed – Reader Questions Answered

·         Coconut Oil for Digestive Disorders

·         Coconut and Pregnancy (coconut products in general are discussed)

·         Eating Traditional Foods and The Blood Type Diet (coconut oil is
       discussed in this post but not the focus)

·         Let’s Talk About Fats Baby! (discusses coconut oil as a healthy
       source of fat in your diet)

·         Nipples, Lady Bits, Coconut Oil – Oh My!

Interested in purchasing coconut oil? Check out my resources page to find out what brands I love!

You can also check out these books for further information on coconut oil:

·         Virgin Coconut Oil by Brian and Marianita Shilhavy

·         Eat Fat Lose Fat: The Healthy Alternative to Trans Fats  byMary
       Enig, PhD, and Sally Fallon

·         The Coconut Oil Miracle Revised and Coconut Cures both by Bruce
       Fife.

Until next time…I am aiming for 200 Uses For Coconut Oil!

Yours In Coconut Health,

Jennifer

Source: http://www.hybridrastamama.com/2012/01/160-uses-for-coconut-oil.html

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