Reetha : Eco Detergent that grows on trees!

Household Uses of Soap Nuts ( Sapindus Mukkorossi)

More Than Detergent

The primary use of soap nuts remains as a laundry detergent. However, given its impressive cleaning properties, it's no wonder why they've also been identified for other purposes -- including shampoo, a spot treatment, and jewelry cleaner.

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A 100% natural product, soap nuts are available in dried-fruit form, as well as in powders and liquids. From the dried fruit shells, you can create your own powder and liquid versions from scratch.

Featured in The New York Times* in a piece done on "green and clean" laundry, soap nuts are today recognized the world over for their natural, eco-friendly ability to clean clothes. Yet did you know that with the same solution, you could clean practically everything in your home? It's true. How many commercial detergents can ascribe to that? Answer: None.

To get you started on your soap-nuts cleaning, here is the liquid recipe and a few ideas to ponder and experiment with:

How to make Soap Nut Liquid

Boil 10-12 soap nuts in 6 cups of water for 30 minutes until it is boiled down to 4 cups. Put 1/4 cup liquid into the laundry. Tip: its best to make smaller batches as it can spoil without preservatives.

All purpose cleaner: Boil soap nuts and separate the pulp from liquid with a strainer. Add the solution to a spray bottle and use for cleaning surfaces, windows, mirrors, and stovetops.

Steam-cleaning spot treatment: Add your soap-nuts solution to a portable steam cleaner. Though soap nuts have no fragrance, they can help remove odors from fabrics, such as curtains and upholstery.

Liquid hand soap: A water basin of warm water and a few soaked soap nuts can serve as a wash for your hands and face. For more foam though, add the solution to a portable foaming pump-bottle and use is anywhere.

Shampoo: Though soap nuts do not lather as much as commercial shampoos do, they do clean well and are safe for both humans and pets.

CAUTION: if the liquid gets into the eyes of it will sting, please be careful.

Jewelry cleaner: Regular dishwashing liquid has long been used as a convenient jewelry cleaner; soap nuts can be used in the same way. Soak jewelry in a solution of soap nuts and warm water and use a soft-bristle toothbrush to loosen any dirt.

Dishwasher soap: Add vinegar to the load as a rinsing agent and wash dishes as you normally would.

Vegetable wash: Being a fruit and 100% natural, you won't need to fear washing your vegetables with chemicals when using soap nuts.

Pest repellant: Works on various pests, such as mosquitoes. Soak the soap nuts, strain the liquid, and add to a spray bottle. Apply to arms and legs before going outdoors.Also works to get rid of pests on house and garden plants.

Unlike Other Cleaners

Unlike other cleaners, soap nuts do not rely on lab-created chemicals to do the job. Rather, the naturally-occurring saponin in their shells is all that's needed. Also, since soap nuts do not lather as much as commercial detergents, less water is needed to rinse their suds away. Using soap nuts enables you to reduce, reuse, and recycle -- the three R's of the environment.

For those with allergies, soap nuts are also ideal. As a hypoallergenic product, they can be used for most any purpose, from laundry to cleaning the windows. The residue left behind won't trigger common allergies, nor agitate sensitive skin. For babies and people with skin conditions, such as psoriasis, soap nuts can quell any and all concerns.

As a household cleaner, the nuts can be used in every room. And in the end, once you've used and reused your shells, you can simply return them to the Earth. If you already have a compost pile for your garden, soap nuts are a perfect addition. Biodegradable, the shells are far from being waste.

A Final Household Tip

As noted, soap-nut shells can be crushed into powder or boiled and strained into liquid. However, another approach is to freeze the liquid into cubes. For laundry, take a few cubes and toss them in your muslin bag. Since the saponin of the nuts has already been released, you can use the cubes in cold, warm, or hot washes. For spot cleaning, simply melt the cubes, add them to a spray bottle, and start spritzing.

"Its Good for you , your family and the environment."

Why choose Organic Foods and Natural Cosmetics?

Organic, un-adulterated foods have formed the basis of our human diet through the ages. It is only in recent times that we have been subjected to countless man-made chemicals found in our food and in the environment. Chemical farming inputs and "factory farming" became popular in the middle of the last century as a way to maximize crop yields. Today, our world pays a large price for these practices, which have resulted in environmental and economic imbalances. What happens to the health of the animals, plants, micro-organisms, soil, oceans, and atmosphere, also affects human beings. There is no one who is immune to the effects of an unhealthy environment, no matter how much technology or wealth they may possess.

“A growing body of research shows that pesticides and other contaminants are more prevalent in the foods we eat, in our bodies, and in the environment than we thought. And studies show that by eating organic foods, you can reduce your exposure to the potential health risks associated with those chemicals." Consumer Reports (Feb. 2006)

In an increasingly polluted urban environment, where our water, air and food are contaminated, keeping healthy has become something of a challenge. Our exploding urban population is starting to show signs of the damage being done by rapidly changing lifestyles, poor diet and lack of exercise. When the food we eat is polluted, we carry that pollution in our bodies, some of it remains there, accumulates and eventually causes diseases. Obesity, diabetes and heart disease are on the rise.

Our children are particularly vulnerable to the dangers of agricultural toxins as they consume a higher percentage in relation to their size. The average child receives four times more exposure to at least eight widely used cancer causing pesticides found in food than the average adult does.

The foundation for healthy plants and animals is healthy soil. Organic farming practices help protect water quality, prevent soil erosion, maintain and enhance seed, crop and ecological biodiversity. Organic food is free from the highly toxic pesticides, herbicides, fungicides and growth hormones used in intensive farming and they are also free of artificial colourings, flavourings, additives, sweeteners and the thousands of other unwanted and unnecessary chemicals used in food.

A study published by the Journal of Agricultural & Food Chemistry found that organic produce contains higher levels of disease-fighting antioxidants than conventional produce. They are safer and more nutritious because of the higher vitamin and mineral concentrations. Organic food is free from artificial additives that can cause osteoporosis, heart disease and hyperactivity. There is in fact, only food in organic food.

Why use Natural Cosmetics

For most of us the use of cosmetic and personal care products is an every day affair. We use creams, shampoos, lotions, happily unaware that they may contain a cocktail of chemicals and preservatives. Your skin is the largest eliminatory organ in the body and has the remarkable ability to absorb applied products, partially or completely, into the bloodstream. Up to 60% of what we put onto our skin may be absorbed into the bloodstream. This is good news if all the skin care products you are using are beneficial and free from chemicals and preservatives. Unfortunately, this is not the case.

According to "The Environmental Working Group":

· More than one-third of all personal care products contain
at least one ingredient linked to cancer.

· 57 percent contain "penetration enhancer" chemicals that
can drive other ingredients faster and deeper into the skin
to the blood vessels below.

· 70 percent of all products contain ingredients that may
contain harmful impurities such as known carcinogens,
according to FDA or industry reviews.

So, the more cosmetics you use on your skin, the more chemicals you are likely to absorb.

As more information becomes available on the impact of long term effects of chemicals and pesticides in the quality of our lives, more and more people are becoming concerned about the quality of the food they eat, the teas they drink and the cosmetics they use, and they are waking up to the fact that there are healthier alternatives available.

Our range of food, herbal infusions and cosmetics are grown and processed without the use of any pesticides, chemicals and preservatives.

For many farmers and consumers, organic represents the values that are most important to them. When you choose organic, you’re not only protecting your family’s health and standard of living, but supporting sustainable agriculture, clean air and water for future generations as well.

Wake up to the Joy of living!!

"Perfection of character consists in this; living each day as if it were the last, and spending each moment in peace." —Marcus Aurelius

What would you do differently if you knew today was your last day to live? What if you knew you had only a week, a month, or a year of life left? Staring mortality in the face tends to focus the mind and change priorities. People who have had near-death experiences or who have been given terminal diagnoses often describe a transformation in which they comprehend the preciousness of everyday life. They re-order priorities with the recognition of what is truly important, and they want to squeeze the juice out of the remaining days of their life.

What a shame it is to wait for a life-threatening event to wake up to the joy of living. There is no reason to wait. Wake up now! Think about your life, what you do, what you say, what you haven't said. What if your life was cut short? What would you have hoped to do or say?

Moment to moment, be open to the experience of the Now. You've got to relax for this. You have to be still sometimes to see and hear the wonder around you. Notice the little things. There is joy to be had watching a robin seeking breakfast, or in observing the movement of leaves in the wind, or watching children at play. Look at the sky. There is the beauty of the blue sky and the ever-changing clouds. That airplane full of tourists flying over—tap into the excitement on board. Share their joy in their adventure.

You will not get all of your wishes, whether you die today or 100 years from now. That means you should enjoy what you've got. So many people have so much less than you do. Do you appreciate what you have? Have you got your health? Do you have some relationships that work or could be made to work? Do you get enough to eat? Do you have a place to sleep? If the answers are yes, you are fortunate. Living fully means being grateful for all that supports you in living.

From time to time, remember to be grateful. Every day, take time to cherish small moments. Breathe mindfully. Walk mindfully. Eat mindfully. Tell those that matter to you that they do. Use your gifts.

Are you too trying to improve your skin eating the right foods?

Are you too trying to improve your skin eating the right foods? Well, then, this list of 9 skin for your skin will show you which foods have the biggest toll on our beauty!


1. Low fat yogurt …
Low fat dairy products are full of vitamin A. This essential vitamin does wonders for our skin. If you have a thyroid problem or diabetes that’s another reason for you to stock up on organic law fat yogurts!

2. Berries …
I am talking about plums, strawberries, blueberries and blackberries (No, not the phone!). These berries have a great antioxidant capacity which means – the more of these we have, the longer our skin will look youthful and healthy!

3. Salmon …
Our skin needs essential fatty acids. If fish isn’t your thing, try walnuts, flax seed or canola oil. All these will give you an amazing result! Omega 3 and Omega 6 may sound like a Sci-fi flick, but these fatty acids are a must for a beautiful, well moisturized skin.

4. Green tea …
This drink contains polyphenols which have anti-inflammatory characteristics. And despite what they say, a good tea will not dehydrate your body, it will only work as an anti-oxidant and an anti-inflammatory agent that’ll keep bacteria at bay and will fight off those free radicals that make our skin age early.

5. Water …
Did I even need to mention it? :) Good hydration is our skin’s best friend, right? And I’m talking about good bottled or filtered water in its purest form and not sodas or energy drinks. So ensure that you’re getting at least 8 glasses of water a day for your beautiful skin.

. Avocados …
Avocado is rich in B-complex vitamins and essential oils and works like an anti-inflammatory agent. It also soothes skin that is red, irritated or blotchy. You can even mix it with yogurt and berries to add some flavor!

7. Mangoes …
Yum! I’m glad this one’s on the list. Lots of vitamin A is in store with this skin do-gooder! This fruit will repair your skin cells so that your skin doesn’t look flaky. It has only 70 calories per serving so it’s ideal for your weight loss program as well.

8. Almonds …
Vitamin E helps to moisturize your skin from within. It also protects your skin from damage and premature aging. Eating almonds can help your facial tissue stay in its best shape for years!

9. Cottage cheese …
Apart from calcium, cottage cheese is great for selenium and it’s an essential mineral for a youthful, glowing skin, Ladies!


There you have it – the 9 best foods that are great for your skin. So stock up on these foods next time you do grocery shopping and your bright, young, healthy and glowing skin will be on its way!

Know about other foods that are great for the skin? Please tell me, I’d love to know what they are…

Happiness is the state in which we were all meant to live. When this state of being eludes you, there are several mood boosting activities you can take part in to ensure low moods are few and far between. Many can even produce identifiable changes in brain chemistry almost instantly.

Get close to the ocean, a waterfall or any moving water
Moving water creates an atmosphere in which it is nearly impossible to feel hopeless and deflated. The 5 great freshwater lakes of the US and the ocean all are bodies of water that are in constant motion. There are two reasons these large bodies of water have a positive impact on our mood.

The first is the power of negative ions that are generated from the movement of the water. Negative ions are very cleansing to the human body. They create a feeling of invigoration by refreshing and oxygenating the cells of the body. They are also antioxidants since they help to counter balance positive ions.

Positive ions are also known as free radicals. In today's world of "dead air" in which we are subjected to buildings with recycled heat and air conditioning, positive ions are much more abundant. Positive ions damage our healthy cells and create the perfect environment for sickness and disease.

Mow the lawn
Studies have recently shown that the simple act of mowing the lawn lifts the spirits. It helps create a feeling of well being and accomplishment. You are also reaping the benefit of aerobic activity, which in itself elevates mood.

The aroma of cut grass has been shown to lower stress levels and calm the mind. The chemical released by the freshly mown grass directly affects two areas of the brain related to emotions and memory. They are the amygdala and the hippocampus.

These findings may also explain why getting outdoors in general helps to elevate mood and release stress. Studies have also shown that simply inhaling the scent of pine trees and other vegetation has relaxing effects on the brain.

Get a pet if you don't already have one
Whether you fancy dogs or cats there are several studies that have shown the physical and emotional benefits of having a pet. Research has revealed that stress levels and feelings of contentment in the elderly dramatically improved by owning a pet. Dogs and cats are frequently taken to nursing homes as visiting guests due to their therapeutic value.

Studies have also shown that simply petting an animal lowers the levels of stress hormones in the body as well as blood pressure. Stronger human and pet relationships show greater benefit in mood boosting and stress reduction. The more bonded you are to your animal the greater the benefit.

Eat a banana
Bananas are not just a convenient snack to carry around. They are also one of the top foods that will instantly boost your mood. Their combination of tryptophan, vitamin B6 and complex carbohydrates actually converts to serotonin.

Serotonin is one of the primary neurotransmitters that helps sustain an elevated mood and sense of well being. Deficiencies in this important hormone result in depression, insomnia and mood fluctuations.

Bananas also contain filling fiber, which helps stabilize the blood sugar levels. Dips in blood sugar cause mood swings and can lead to over eating. The iron in bananas also plays an important role in energy production which helps enhance mood and create a sense of well being and empowerment.

Sources for this article include:
http://www.health-benefit-of-water....
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/science/...
http://health.howstuffworks.com/men...

Go Slim drinkin Green Tea::.

Green tea (and its less refined cousin, white tea) has been a part of the ancient Chinese tradition for countless generations, in large part due to its rich endowment of bioactive catechins. Many studies over the past decade have shown that green tea is a powerful tool to improve metabolism in a way that is supportive of weight loss.

Scientists publishing in the Journal of Agricultural Food Chemistry demonstrate that it activates genes associated with fat burning while also helping to reduce absorption of fat from the digestive tract. Further evidence on the gene-altering activity of green tea is reported in the International Journal of Cardiology, as polyphenols from the drink lower free radical damage to help maintain telomere length in heart cells. Drinking several cups of green tea each day may hold the key to effective weight management and cardiac health.

Researchers from the Departments of Chemical Biology and Pharmacology and Toxicology at Rutgers University in New Jersey examined the effect of green tea supplementation on obese mice, known to exhibit similar metabolic characteristics to humans. The animals were broken into two groups and both were fed a traditional high fat/Western style diet. One group received water supplemented with the green tea bioactive catechin EGCG, while the second group acted as a non-supplemented control.

Green Tea Supplementation Assists Weight Loss by Reducing Abdominal Fat Stores
The study determined that EGCG supplementation significantly reduced body weight gain, associated with increased fecal lipids and decreased blood glucose levels, compared to those of the control group. Scientists further found that fatty liver incidence, associated liver damage and liver triglyceride levels were also decreased by the EGCG treatment. Treated animals also experienced improved insulin response as well as lowered C-reactive protein (CRP) and interlukin-6 (IL-6) levels, both strong indicators of systemic inflammation and immune response.

The study authors concluded "Our results demonstrate that the high fat/Western diet produces more severe symptoms of metabolic syndrome and that the EGCG treatment can alleviate these symptoms and body fat accumulation. The beneficial effects of EGCG are associated with decreased lipid absorption and reduced levels of inflammatory cytokines." Green tea helps our cellular engines (mitochondria) to better metabolize calories more efficiently, providing a significant weight management tool.

Additionally, supporting research documents the effect of green tea catechins on extending the lifespan of heart muscle cells. Scientists found that EGCG supplementation exerted a potent antioxidant effect that lowered free radical damage to preserve telomere length and reduce heart cell death. Nutrition experts recommend two to four cups of fresh brewed green tea daily or an organically compounded and standardized EGCG supplement (300 to 500 mg daily) to assist weight management goals and improve cardiovascular health.

Sources for this article include:
http://www.wellnessresources.com/we...
http://pubs.acs.org/doi/abs/10.1021...
http://www.wellnessresources.com/he...
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/...

Why use Natural Cosmetics

Aromabotanique

For most of us the use of cosmetic and personal care products is an every day affair. We use creams, shampoos, lotions, happily unaware that they may contain a cocktail of chemicals and preservatives. Your skin is the largest eliminatory organ in the body and has the remarkable ability to absorb applied products, partially or completely, into the bloodstream. Up to 60% of what we put onto our skin may be absorbed into the bloodstream. This is good news if all the skin care products you are using are beneficial and free from chemicals and preservatives. Unfortunately, this is not the case.

According to "The Environmental Working Group":

· More than one-third of all personal care products contain
at least one ingredient linked to cancer.

· 57 percent contain "penetration enhancer" chemicals that
can drive other ingredients faster and deeper into the skin
to the blood vessels below.

· 70 percent of all products contain ingredients that may
contain harmful impurities such as known carcinogens,
according to FDA or industry reviews.

So, the more cosmetics you use on your skin, the more chemicals you are likely to absorb.

As more information becomes available on the impact of long term effects of chemicals and pesticides in the quality of our lives, more and more people are becoming concerned about the quality of the food they eat, the teas they drink and the cosmetics they use, and they are waking up to the fact that there are healthier alternatives available.

Our range of food, herbal infusions and cosmetics are grown and processed without the use of any pesticides, chemicals and preservatives.

For many farmers and consumers, organic represents the values that are most important to them. When you choose organic, you’re not only protecting your family’s health and standard of living, but supporting sustainable agriculture, clean air and water for future generations as well.