Long Life and Health to you my Dear Spark Family!!

Please enjoy this collection of "Feel Good" recipes from our fellow Spark Brothers and Sisters!

The recipes are listed by the following categories:

1. Acid Refux ~ Anti Bloating ~ Alkaline Level ~ Anti Inflammatory ~ Balancing PH ~ Blood Builder ~ Blood Cleanser ~ Blood Pressure

2. Cholesterol Cure ~ Cleansing Diets: Cabbage Soup & Lemon Cleanser ~ Constipation Relief

3. Detox Juice & Soups ~ Purifying Skin Detox

4. Digestive Aids ~ Diuretics ~ Dr. Oz

5. Fasting Broth & Juices ~ Fat Burning Soups

6. Gallbladder Cleansing ~ Home Health & Beauty Aids ~ Home Remedies for Colds & Sinuses

7. Home Remedies, Cold & Sinus Relief

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

(cont...)

8. Health, Beauty Aids & Natural Home Products ~ Immunity Builder

9. Homemade Health, Beauty Aids & Natural Home Products

10. Liver Cleanser ~ Potassium ~ Rejuvenation ~ Stomach Settler & Cleansing

11. Juicing For Health

12. Medicinal Teas & Natural Remedies

13. Rejuvenation, Healing & Vitamin Waters

14. Weight Loss & Diet Soups

15. Natural Vegetable Wash and All Natural Pest Control

16. Bed Bugs, Fleas, Lice & Mites


Live Long and Prosper!
Love, Vera

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

Mini Tutorial ~ Detoxification & Fasting ~ Part 1

This is an excellent mini tutorial!

It will guide you in the proper methods for fasting and detoxifying your body with Apple Juice & Apple Cider Vinegar, Castor Oil Rubs, Exercise, Detoxification Baths and Herbs.

This life saving information is adapted from another Spark member. Thank you:

Chris-Cathi ~ http://recipes.sparkpeople.com
/cookbooks.asp?cookbook=194016

http://www.peacefulmind.com/detox.htm

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

Mini Tutorial ~ Detoxification & Fasting ~ Part 2

FASTING DIET (mostly veggies)
* Use oils sparingly during the colon cleansing process.
* Avoid dairy products because they create too much mucus in the colon.
* Take a walk each morning and drink apple juice.

APPLE CIDER VINEGAR (daily)
1 tsp to 2 tbsp in 8-16oz of water, up to 3x/day
http://www.earthclinic.com/Remedies/acvinegar.html http://www.pureinsideout.com/apple-cider-vinegar-benefits.html
http://www.naturalnews.com/026910_vinegar_apple_cider_vinegar_detox.html

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

A really easy and healthy breakfast/lunch/anytime smoothie recipe for those of us suffering with reflux and/or are eating a low acid and pH diet. It's based off of two different recipes in the book "Dropping Acid" by Dr. Jamie Koufman - which I highly recommend.

**NOTE: IF YOU'RE A VEGAN, USE SOY, NUT, OR RICE MILK. Recipe is calculated with skim milk, but it's totally fine to substitute. The calories are roughly the same - 90 calories/1 cup.

Submitted by ALICEINHERHAIR

Receommended by the fabulous trainer, Tracy Anderson, and NYC's Dr. Ash, this fresh juice increases the alkalinity in the body, decreases acidity, works as a detoxifier, and adds wonderful potassium, fiber, and other vital nutrients. SInce it is a juice, the digestion system works less to get the nutrients into our body. (See Cooking Instructions for using the remnants to capture more fiber and nutrients out of the ingredients.)
This is a delicious green drink which makes a difference...your body feel great after drinking it!

Submitted by LEIGHB618

a healthy drink to start the day off with at breakfast

omega 3 's. lemon juice is supposed to add to the alkaline balance of the body.....

my wife had obtained this recipe from a qi gong teacher

Submitted by ALCHEMYIAM

Supposedly the body does best at a slightly alkaline level. This soup is filled with ingredients which are supposed to be alkaline (to the body lemons which we know to be acidic are alkaline - same with tomatoes)

Submitted by JSIMMON1

Baking Soda Water will help balance your PH.
Although it is high in Sodium, and you can become to alkaline if taken for a long time excessively.
I take 8oz of water, with a half a teaspoon in the morning and sometimes in the evening before bed time depending on how acidic I am.

Submitted by COBBLETTS

Submitted by HLTYCHIC

I don't really know why it works but if you drink this all day (hot or cold) your lose weight...it may be all water but sometimes you just need the scale to move for that extra bit of motivation!!

Submitted by MSWIZARD

This a recipe used in the Four Day Anti Bloat Jump Start for the Flat Belly Diet Plan

Submitted by MISBEHAVING

Submitted by RANJINI4

Submitted by OPTIMIST111

Submitted by PAULAROSE1967

using what I had in the kitchen (without having to make a special trip to the store) I tweaked the recipe even further.

Submitted by IRON__GIRL

Filled to the brim with antioxidants, my iced tea works wonders. I call it IPJCGT for short, and it's a hit in my house among the women. ( The boys haven't tasted the magic yet!)It is all I drink in the summer and I only use all natural ingredients.The sweeteners, being Honey, Unprocessed Suger and Vanilla Extract are ALL optional and the only source of calloried in the drink. You will love it! Enjoy!!!

Submitted by LEY5894

A tasty non-alcoholic way to get your antioxidants. This drink can be made with a sugar-free ginger ale to lower the calorie and carb counts.

Submitted by DEGAIA

A delicious raw vegan iron-rich smoothie

Submitted by LABABEBOHEME

Submitted by BIPOLARPRINCESS

i got this recipe from one of the healthy cooking recipes and tweaked it a bit. at first sip you will feel like an orange julius

Submitted by CRZYMOM70

Easy to make and very tasty soup. Serve with chunky, warm bread.

If it wasn't enough that this soup is delicious, chillis and spinach both have blood pressure reducing properties. Spinach is up in the top 5 of the healthiest veggies to eat and one of the few which are better for you when boiled (as are carrots) making them perfect soup veg! It is also reported that there are Anti-Inflammatory and Anti-Cancer Benefits from Spinach Phytonutrients.

Give it a try! You can't lose :-)

Submitted by UZUME13

The preferred drink of the Pharaohs of ancient Egypt.
Hibiscus tea can lower blood pressure and reduce fever.

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

My grandmother uses this to help bring her blood pressure down when it gets to high. (Please not she also takes her BP meds, but uses then when it suddenly goes up)

Submitted by IMARTINEZ

Helps to control sugars

Submitted by VBMILE

Reduces blood pressure, other benefits

Submitted by SLSABIN

This Cardiac Diet is used for heart patients who need to loose weight in a hurry before having surgery.

In 3 days you can loose as much as 10 lbs.

You MUST Follow The Rules!! This diet works as a chemical breakdown and is proven to work.
DO NOT VARY THE AMOUNTS OR MAKE SUBSTITUTIONS TO THE DIET MENU!

1. You are allowed a diet soda or tea with sweetner on this diet.

2. Salt and Pepper can be used, but no other seasoning.

3. Use this diet for 3 consecutive days per week.

4. After 3 days of dieting, you can eat your usual food.
DO NOT OVER EAT!!

5. After 4 days of normal eating, start back on your 3 day diet.

DON'T CHANGE THE RULES!!

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

First Day

Breakfast
1/2 Grapefruit of juice
1 Slice of Toast
1 T Peanut Butter

Lunch
1/2 c Tuna
1 Slice Toast
Black Coffee or Tea

Dinner
2 Slices -3 oz of any meat
1 c String Beans
1 c Carrots of Beets
1 small Apple
1 c Vanilla Ice Cream

Success!!

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

Second Day

Breakfast
1 Hard Boiled Egg
1 Slice Toast
1/2 Banana
Black Coffee or Tea

Lunch
1 c Cottage Cheese or 1/2 c Tuna
5 Saltine Crackers

Dinner
2 Wieners
1 c Cabbage or Broccoli
1/2 c Carrots or Turnip Greens
1/2 Banana
1 c Vanilla Ice Cream

Success!!

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

Third Day

Breakfast
1 Hard Boiled Egg
1 Slice Toast
Black Coffee or Tea

Lunch
1 Slice Cheddar Cheese
5 Saltine Crackers
1 small apple
Black Coffee or Tea

Dinner
1 c Tuna
1 c Carrots or Beets
1 c Green Beans or Cauliflower
1 c Cantaloupe or small Apple
1 c Vanilla ice Cream

Success!!

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

DETOX BATHS

- .5 cup of Epsom salts
- .5 cup of baking soda
- .5 cups of sea salt (not table!)
- Some drops of your favorite oil, such as peppermint or lavender.

Directions: Swish all of the ingredients into the tub, and soak for as long as you can, preferably 20 minutes.

You should start sweating within the first few minutes, and the longer the better, up to 20 minutes. If you feel too hot, start adding cold water into the tub until you cool off.

Sit in the cool water another 20 minutes, if you can.

When you get out of the tub, move slowly and carefully, as your body has been working hard and you may get lightheaded or feel weak and drained.

http://www.colonzone.org/detoxbaths.php

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

DETOX BATHS

Directions:
* Get in and relax for about 20 – 30 minutes. Imagine that all your body toxins are coming out of your body.
* Drink hot herbal tea to increase sweating and replenish fluids you lose.
* Scrub the skin gently with soap on a natural fiber. Within a few minutes the water will turn murky and "dirty." The darkness to the water is heavy metals coming out of the skin (aluminum and mercury).
* Shower with warm water to wash off toxins, then briefly with cold water.
* Get out of the bath carefully because you may feel dizzy.
* Wrap yourself in large heated towels and go straight to bed
* Do this once a week during detox and once a month for maintenance.

CAUTION: Avoid this bath if you have high blood pressure, heart or kidney troubles, are diabetic or simply feel tired and weak.

http://www.col
onzone.org/detoxbaths.php

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

Tasty Cabbage Soup

Submitted by OBERONE2011

Submitted by LOSINGCHICK

Enjoy this nutty, maple brown sugar oatmeal while bringing down your cholesterol! It is yummy and filling!

Submitted by RELISHINGLIFE

This is a recipe I've been using for a good while -- some ingredients made specific to my preferences. I like it a lot and it is convenient when on the go. Used for low cholesterol diet - In my case, following the plan of 8 Week Chol Cure -- 3 muffins/day.

This is the crockpot oatmeal recipe from "Cholesterol Down" by Janet Brill, which is a book I highly recommend to anyone trying to lower their cholesterol. It's also a great healthy recipe overall, and you could probably add just about anything to it after it's done. The original calls for 1c dried cranberries, but I've never made it with that so I left it out. Enjoy (I hope!)...

Submitted by ADDERCAT

Sterol and Oats help reduce Cholesterol.

Healthy(er) than your average snack bars.

Cook longer and crumble them up for breakfast.

Submitted by DANMUX

This is the recipe for 1 gallon of the lemon Master Cleanse to use throughout the day or a couple of days depending if fasting or supplemental cleanse.

Submitted by 2BNFINITELYFREE

2 Tbsp Lemon Juice (Fresh, about 1/2 lemon), 2 Tbsp Agave Nectar, 8 oz H2O, 1/10 tsp Cayenne Pepper

Submitted by MEDER8

Submitted by ANSONSMOMMY

Good for constipation

Submitted by AUSSIEAMBER

CASTOR OIL RUB

* Warm two tablespoons of castor oil in a large spoon by flame.

I apply the oil liberally to:

(1) the liver area (the rib cage on the right side, extending from mid-line in front to the mid-line behind);
(2) the front and sides of the abdomen;
(3) shoulders; and
(4) face (light smear). For the next two hours, I stay in a limbic state, a meditative state free of chatter of a cluttered head.

http://www.herbal-splash.com/liniment.html

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

CASTOR OIL RUB FOR BACK PAIN

5 drops ginger essential oil
5 drops peppermint or wintergreen essential oil
2 drops camphor essential oil
2 drops rosemary essential oil
30 ml castor oil

In a small bowl, mix together the essential oils and the castor oil.

Rub into the painful area and cover with a piece of flannel, then put a heating pad over the cloth for 15 to 20 minutes to help the rub soak in. Double the recipe for larger areas.

http://www.peacefulmind.com/detox.htm

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

Submitted by SIZE10_4GOOD

Submitted by MIAMISOLSTICE

Submitted by MIAMISOLSTICE

Submitted by MONY924

This (caffiene free) tea is a refreshing summer beverage served cold with mint and honey or a soothing brew great in the winter with a hint of maple. Lemon grass is renowned for its detoxing properties and benefits the kidneys and liver.

Submitted by WALTHART

Lemon juice, maple syrup, cayenne pepper

Submitted by JEN6674

A fresh detox to kick start your diet..rich in vit A and C for the skin needs

Submitted by DRKANIA

Submitted by PATSTTHOMAS

Submitted by NEVERGIVEUP68

Nutrient Packed broth

Submitted by CARRIELC1977

CASTOR OIL PACK

Castor oil packs are made by soaking a piece of flannel in castor oil and placing it on the skin. The flannel is covered with a sheet of plastic, and then a hot water bottle is placed over the plastic to heat the pack.


A Castor Oil pack can be placed on the following body regions:
# The right side of the abdomen. Castor oil packs are sometimes recommended by alternative practitioners as part of a liver detox program.
# Inflamed and swollen joints, bursitis, and muscle strains.
# The abdomen to relieve constipation and other digestive disorders.
# The lower abdomen in cases of menstrual irregularities and uterine and ovarian cysts.

http://www.herbal-splash.com/liniment.html

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

Materials
# Three layers of undyed wool or cotton flannel large enough to cover the affected area
# Castor oil
# Plastic wrap cut one to two inches larger than the flannel (can be cut from a plastic bag)
# Hot water bottle
# Container with lid
# Old clothes and sheets. Castor oil will stain clothing and bedding.

Method
1. Place the flannel in the container. Soak it in castor oil so that it is saturated, but not dripping.
2. Place the pack over the affected body part.
3. Cover with plastic.
4. Place the hot water bottle over the pack. Leave it on for 45-60 minutes. Rest while the pack is in place.
5. After removing the pack, cleanse the area with a dilute solution of water and baking soda.
6. Store the pack in the covered container in the refrigerator. Each pack may be reused up to 25-30 times.

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

Submitted by HLTYCHIC

Submitted by EMMALLY

Submitted by HLTYCHIC

Modified from King Arthur's English Digestive Biscuits

Submitted by JWHITE7331

These cookies are similar to the store bought digestives, they are mildly sweet, hearty, and have a great, crumbly texture. Once cooled you can dip one side in melted chocolate to make chocolate digestives, although they are also delicious without it. They are lovely accompanied by a cup of tea. (Recipe given without chocolate)

Submitted by SALAZAM

This smoothie is great for digestion, I like to have my first dose before starting my day because it helps me eliminate anything that might be in my system from previous days. I also might have one after lunch if I have any left over from the morning one. You may also add jicama, lime or grapefruit juice to replace some of the water, grapefruit juice can help burn fat and gives a boost of vitamin c. Also if you don't want to use the flaxseed oil, I sometimes use the actual flax seeds and leave them soaking over night in the water that I was going to use for the smoothie the next day. I really like having this smoothie on Monday morning and mid-day to help clean out my system from eating out in the weekend. You can change the amount of fruit you use if you find that you don't want such a thick consistency. I prep on sunday night for the week and peel my ingredients and pack them in single or double servings and freeze them for the week and that way im not lazy in the morning to make the smoothie.

Submitted by VINKIWINKI

diuertic soup

Submitted by JOHNEKOCH

1 32 oz. pitcher of water with 1 ice cube of frozen barley water. 4 Peppermint teabags. Juice of 1 lemon. 1 tbsp. dried organic olive leaves.
Bring to a boil, cool down and sip after breakfast until lunchtime . Take Omega 3's in the morning with this tea.

Submitted by LINDYPOWER

I used Florida's Natural Orange Juice, not from concentrate, no pulp for this recipe. As well as, Great Value Berry Medley, no sugar added.

Submitted by BONNIESAZ

spicy and yummy

Submitted by VERNIE7

Submitted by AUDREYMACK1

from Dr. Oz detox, Oct 2011

Submitted by SKINNYSTRUMMER

Instead of using meat, try these “meat” balls, made from heart-healthy beans, mushrooms and walnuts. The unique blend of flavor proves that red meat has nothing on this vegetarian dish.

Submitted by BONBON1472003

It's call the amazing soup diet in Good Housekeeping magazine. It's a good starter soup or stand alone.

Submitted by BRECA02

This recipe is from Dr. Oz's You on a Diet book

Submitted by ASCHNEIDLER

I love to watch Dr. Oz on TV, so when I saw his picture on the cover of First, I bought the magazine and found this recipe. It is supposed to be his #1 fat cure. This drink will jump start your slimdown.

Submitted by HARRINGTON5

VITAMINS & HERBS

Regular cleansing of the internal body has become more crucial than ever before.

Herbal detox is one method of detoxifying your body naturally.

Vitamin C with bioflavonoids protects the body from pollutants.

Can be taken 6,000-8,000 mg daily in divided doses.

Thank you:
www.healthrecipes.com/herbal_detox.htm

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

Side Effects

When you detox, your body first must release toxins that are stored in your fat cells. As it does this, the toxins within your body will make you feel worse than you did before starting a detox--especially if you have never done one before or don't do them regularly. You might feel as if you are coming down with the flu. This is common, but know that continuing with the baths will help your body eliminate the toxins quicker.

Thank you:
www.peacefulmind.com/detox.htm

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

This recipe will help balance your PH, and can be used along with juices for fasting

Submitted by COBBLETTS

a great healthy juice. this juice is thick and filling, low in sugar and high in vitamins. I use this juice recipe when I'm doing a three day juice fast/detox

Submitted by MELISSABRENNAN

You will enjoy these tasty low in calories & low in fat soups.

Check the nutritional info for the recipes. Some show very high sodium levels.

Rinse canned vegetables to reduce the sodium by almost half.

Canned Beef or Chicken broth is also high sodium. Make homemade broth to control the sodium.

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

~ Raise Potassium Level
~ Lower Sodium intake

Get heart health smart by raising daily potassium intake while lowering sodium content due to high blood pressure, high triglycerides, LDL, and cholesterol levels.

We can accomplish this through food choices and using Morton's Salt Substitute.

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

Very low in calories & fat for this thick hearty fat burning soup. The calories you intake with this soup are expended by simply digesting the soup, it fills you up and you burn calories just by eating the soup! Great for people who are trying to lose body fat. The nutritional info for this recipe is based on a 1 cup serving, this recipe makes 8 servings. This soup shows to be very high sodium, if you rinse any canned veggies really well you will reduce the sodium by almost half. Also this recipe uses canned or store bought broth if you used homemade broth the sodium per serving would be under 200mg.

Submitted by JANNERS1980

This is a soup for a 7-day diet derived from one given at The Sacred Heart Memorial Hospital for overweight heart patients to lose weight rapidly, usually before surgery. It is only to be used for the 7 days, and to help prepare one to lose weight safely before surgery or for detox purposes. It is NOT meant for long term or repeated use.

~Ed Kasper, L.Ac

Submitted by LAURIANNASH

Submitted by SABRINALENORE

This is from Ann Gittleman's book. I use ground turkey rather than ground beef to save a lot of calories without sacrificing taste.

Submitted by VASPARK

Digestive Health

There are a variety of herbs which will help relieve constipation along with three steps to take every day to improve and maintain your healthy bowels and digestive system.


This life saving information is adapted from another Spark member.

Thank you: Chris-Cathi
http://recipes.sparkpeople.com/cookbooks.asp?cookbook=194016


www.compleatmother.com/womens-health/constipation/overview.shtml
Thank you!

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

There are a variety of herbs which will help relieve constipation. Some of these work quite quickly, while others may take up to 24 hours. Here's just a few that work wonderfully:

- Cascara Sagrada: This is one of the strongest herbal laxatives and it's commonly added to over the counter medications for use in relieving constipation. Take an herbal capsule at night with a large glass of water.

- Chickweed: An excellent herb for relieving constipation within a few hours of taking it, this herb also strengthens the stomach and bowels, and helps carry out toxins.

- Slippery Elm: Another wonderful single herb that works for both constipation and diarrhea, because it normalizes the stools while soothing, coating and healing the intestinal tract lining. Slippery Elm should be taken with lots of water to help move it through your system.

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

From the Juice lady book

Submitted by UMYERS

From the Juice Lady book

Submitted by UMYERS

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

I made this soup for my daughter when a cold had her down. She loved the taste and all of the aromatic ingrdients really cleared her head!

Submitted by ERTHMOM7

Soothing tea for upper respiratory and sinuses.

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

Try this tasty sweet & sour tea of Lemon Juice, Honey, Bourbon and Cayenne Pepper to relax you, soothe your throat and drain your sinuses. headache.

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

http://www.earthclinic.com/CURES/sinus_congestion.html

Submitted by NEWMICHELE

The fruit combination gives an extra boost of Vitamin C. Made for those stuffy-head, runny-nose, feeling-lousy kind of days.

From "The Super Smoothies Deck"

Submitted by MBYOCUM

A Wonderful Soup for when you have a head cold

Submitted by ROSIET33

Make this soup for the flu, a cold, sinus infection...It will help cure anything!

Submitted by SPARKLE_LITE

This is from the BBC "Grow your own drugs" program. I found it amazing for my cold and it cleared up in one day. I LOVE this soup. Its easy to make and very fun. I added my own twist on it for my health kick. Its so full of protein and great to give a little wake up call mid day.

Submitted by GYMGAL83

This is a delicious soup full of healing ingredients to soothe the swine flu beast & maybe even help you build your immunity to fight it. Only 127 calories per serving too! Great winter soup whether you're sick or well.

Submitted by CARLASKIS

This is the best thing for your body, if your fighting a flu or cold or the flu. It's loaded with natural vitamins and and minerals which are proven to help flushing out bacteria, toxins and viruses. Make sure all the ingredients are organic and the water is distilled. There's no sense making a broth filled with insecticides, hormons, chlorine and toxins, if your trying to help your body flush such things out.

Submitted by DODI2501

Delicious and comforting

Submitted by GNTLPLACES

Submitted by EUNICEMONTEIRO

A pleasant tasting and comforting throat soother when your throat is sore from coughing or you have a cold.

Submitted by EWEINHISPASTURE

Soothing tea for sore throats.
Steeping herbal teas to long will make the tea bitter. Use Honey and/or a natural herbal sweetner like Stevvia.

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

High in calories but worth it when a sore throat is kicking your tail.

Submitted by FRANCLYN

Soothing, Anti-inflammatory, Antibiotic, Immunity-boosting

Submitted by BELLESPARK

Three Steps to take every day to improve and maintain your healthy bowels and digestive system.:

1. Drink Fruit juice. Plain old apple, grape, or prune juice often does the trick quite nicely. These are the strongest bowel moving juices too.

If you just need to keep your bowels moving regularly though, you might choose a citrus juice such as orange juice or home made lemonade instead.

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

2. Eat More Fiber. Adding fiber to your diet will help keep the waste moving regularly too, because it's not digested by your body. So fiber acts as a "broom" when it's inside your colon. Fiber can be added from foods such as fresh fruits and vegetables, or you can take fiber supplements instead.

3. Drink More Water. Drinking plenty of water each day will help keep your bowels moving regularly. In most cases, drinking two to three quarts of water a day will do the trick.

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

Great bubbly bubble bath. Great for days that you're just moving all day. Please Note: This is NOT food!
the soap makes it bubbly
the honey attracts and retains moisture, and adds a delicious smell
the egg yolk moisturizes your skin with it's fat
the egg white keeps it bubbly
the vanilla adds a great smell!

Submitted by ILUVCOOKING

Step 1: Cut two thin slices off a chilled cucumber.

Step 2: Lay down and place the slices on top of your eyelids.

Step 3: Relax for 15 minutes and allow the cool cucumbers to revitalize tired eyes.

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

Here's a great way to put that cocoa in your cupboard to good use now that you're eating right — mix up a luscious hot chocolate milk bath!

Submitted by TABBYKAT75

Are you looking for a quick, easy, and zero calorie gifts from the kitchen idea for the holidays? This one is my all-time favorite.

Submitted by CHEF_MEG

Submitted by CGSX3MOM

Submitted by CELTIC_WITCH

Edible peanut butter play dough

Submitted by SHERRIRIGGINS

If your kids happen to eat some of this play dough, it isn't toxic!

Submitted by MMWILLIAMS1984

Submitted by LINDSAY_LOTH

This is the soup I make when someone in my family is under the weather. You can add lots of other veggies, etc. according to your tastes. I call it "Immune Building" because of all the garlic in it.

Submitted by KIDSATHART

Submitted by ZORBS13

Raw Ginger is really good cause it stimulates the immune system!

Submitted by AMYS-AIMS

Fasting

When you consider fasting, think of it as a disciplined diet, not a total abstention from food. You may choose to abstain from certain foods like meat, eggs, milk, butter, and cheese for a day or for several days.

Traditionally, people who fast for religious reasons abstain from certain foods, eliminating luxury items from their diets, such as meats.

A "Religious Fast" is a personal act of devotion to God. Jesus told us that when we fast, we are not to make a show of it, like hypocrites do.

In short, your appetite acts as a prayer alarm. Fasting will keep you focused on prayer all day long.

Instead of eating your usual treat, you pray.

Also see: www.howtofast.net
kencollins.com/pray-02.htm

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

Proper Fasting Guidelines

1. Don't go hungry. You could have a fast eliminating all foods and just drinking water, but hunger will put your body into a starvation mode and cause you to gain weight.

2. Get lots of nutrients and fiber moving through the system.

3. Don't miss meals. Eat vegetables, drink water and juices and don't miss meals.

Fasting Suggested Menu

- Drink = ACV, V8, apple juice, green or herbal teas

- Breakfast = oatmeal (no milk) with walnuts

- Snacks = apples, carrots, celery, almonds

- Lunch = french onion soup w/large salad & sesame seeds (non-fasting people would add extra cheese toast)

- Dinner = any veggie soup w/large salad & sesame seeds (non-fasting people would add tuna casserole)

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

For Tired body, Jetleg, Hangover ~ Apple, Orange, Carrot, Beetroot

For Relaxation ~ Apple, Pineapple, Mint, Lime

For reducing Stress ~ Tomato, Carrot, Coriander, Broccoli, Celery

For improving Digestion ~ Apple, Beetroot, Ginger, Carrot

For improving Immune System, Anti Flu, Anti cold ~ Apple, Carrot, Lemon, Ginger, Garlic

For Detoxing Body ~ Apple, Grapefruit, Watermelon, Ginger

For Cleansing Liver ~ Pineapple, Carrot, Beetroot, Lime

As a Skin Tonic ~ Carrot, Capsicum, Spinach

Thank you: www.comp.nus.edu.sg/~siti/personal/Resepi/MixedFruitJuice.htm

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

Anemia ~ Blackberry + parsley juice
Parsley + grape juice

Arthritis ~ Celery + parsley juice

Asthma ~ Celery + papaya juice
Celery + endive + carrot juice

Bedwetting ~ Celery + parsley juice

Bladder Ailments ~ Celery + pomegranate juice

Blood Pressure (high) ~ Carrot + parsley + celery juice
Lime juice + whey powder
Grape juice and carrot juice

Blood Pressure (low) ~ Parsley juice
Capsicum + garlic juice

Blood Purifier ~ Blackberry juice + black cherry juice + parsley juice + dandelion juice +. Tomato juice

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

A little something to get your liver working each morning! :-)

Submitted by SKINNYSOON13

Great smoothie for when you are on the run

Submitted by MYRNA929

This Strawberry Smoothie is Delicious

Submitted by LIZGRAHAM

Liver cleanser

Submitted by TARAHOOKS

A healthy, fresh-tasting blend of fruits and vegetables mixed with premixed 100% fruit juice.

Submitted by WILLY880

Submitted by JKBB4988

Low in potassium? This is a great low calorie way to boost it up.

Submitted by SIRDOG

Submitted by JESSMRN

Broth can be used as a base for soups and stews, or sip like a tea. It refreshes and heals the body. Have on hand after chemo treatments and especially during suppressed appetite.

Submitted by DDEMEGLIO

This is a blend of root and cruciferous vegetables and greens which will provide all the vitamins and minerals needed to rejuvenate you during a stressful day. Instead of reaching for a sugary snack, enjoy a cup of this healing and comforting soup!!!

Submitted by MISSJCISRUNNING

Colds ~ Watercress + apple juice with 1/4 tsp. pure cream of tartar

Colitis ~ Coconut milk + carrot juice

Complexion (yellow) ~ Grapefruit juice

Complexion problems ~ 1 Tbsp apple concentrate juice + 1/2 glass cucumber juice + 1/2 glass water

Constipation ~ Celery
Spinach + grapefruit

Diarrhea ~ Carrot + blackberry juice

Fever ~ Celery + parsley juice

Gall Bladder ~ Radish + prune + black cherry + celery juice

Carrot + beetroot + cucumber juice ~ Prune + black cherry + celery + radish juice

Gallstones ~ Beetroot + radish juice
Green vegetable juices

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

Gas ~ Coconut milk + carrot juice

Glands ~ Celery juice 1 tsp + wheat germ + 1 tsp. Nova Scotia dulse

Goiter (enlarge thyroid gland) ~ Celery juice, 1 tsp + wheat germ + 1 tsp. Nova Scotia dulse

Gout (disease w painful inflammation of small joint) ~ Celery + parsley juice

Heart ~ Carrot + pineapple juice with honey
Alfalfa
Parsley + alfalfa + pineapple juice

Impotence ~ Celery juice, 1 tsp + wheat germ + 1 tsp. Nova Scotia dulse

Indigestion ~ Coconut milk + fig juice + parsley + carrot juice

Infections ~ Carrot + blackberry juice

Insomnia (sleeplessness) ~ Lettuce + celery juice

Jaundice (yellowness of skin) ~ Tomato & sauerkraut juice

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

Submitted by ANSONSMOMMY

Low calorie, healthy & yummy chicken soup. The added ginger soothes upset tummies. Goes well with a dinner roll.

Submitted by AUBREYJO

Energy and healthy drink.

Submitted by KATHYANNBT

Get a hit of Vitamin C with this earthy sweet potato combo!

Submitted by DRAMAFREEFIT

Basic, refreshing juice

Submitted by AUSSIEAMBER

A facial from the inside out!

Submitted by AUSSIEAMBER

Healthy juice touted to make you loose weight

Submitted by ALEX_MAYORGA

SOooooo Yummy!

Submitted by KAY-MAD

Kidneys ~ Celery + parsley + asparagus juce
Carrot + parsley juice

Kidney (bladder) problems ~ Celery + pomegranate juice

Liver ~ Radish and pineapple juice
Carrot, beet, and cucumber juice

To improve memory ~ Celery + carrot + prune juice + rice polishings

Nervous tension ~ Celery + carrot + prune juice
Lettuce + tomato juice

Overweight, obesity ~ Beet greens + parsley + celery juice

Perspiration ~Celery + prune juice
Cucumber + pineapple juice

Rheumatism ~ Cucumber + endive + goat’s whey

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

Sore Throat ~ Watercress + apple juice with 1/4 tsp pure cream of tartar

Stomach Infection ~ Carrot + blackberry juice

Teeth ~ Beet greens + parsley + celery juice + green kale

Thyroid ~ Clam juice + celery juice

Ulcers Stomach ~ Celery
Spinach + grapejuice

Vitality ~ 1 tbsp apple concentreate + 1 tbsp almond nut butter + 1 cup celery juice

Weight Improvement ~ Coconut milk + fig juice + parsley + carrot juice

Weight Reducing ~ Parsley + grape juice + pineapple juice

Youth Retaining ~ Cucumber + radish + pepper (1/3 cup each)
2/3 cup concord grape juice + 1/3 cup pineapple juice

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

I love fruit and mint infused teas!

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

Submitted by COULEURVANILLE

Welcome the fall weather sitting in a rocking chair with a cup of Apple Tea on the porch at sunrise. Enjoy the sweetness of the tea and listen for the first birds to sing.

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

A healthful drink for any time of the day, but best taken half an hour before eating. Natural appetite suppressant, and gives your skin a healthy glow.

Submitted by OWLETT

A recipe I found online for sore throats. You only need a little cayenne to open up the sinuses. The honey really helps soothe a sore throat and will calm a cough too.

Submitted by NATBAER

just a quick drink to have when you feel a cold coming on or just to warm up in the morning, preferably without the honey,or less(just a tiny drizzle).

Submitted by SUPERGIRL1000

This is a popular drink called "Mugicha" in Japan. It is noted for cooling down the body in hot weather, for cleansing the system, treatment for hemorrhoids, inflammatory arthritis and breaks up congestion, phlegm and other symptoms of colds and flues.
It can be served hot or on ice.

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

Chamomile is a daisy. It is a wonderful remedy for sleep disorders such as insomnia. Simply make a cup of tea 30 to 45 minutes before going to bed to treat sleeplessness.

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

Here a blended tea that will enliven, delight and refresh. Try it at breakfast for an uplifting start to the day. Stimulates circulation, warms the body, expels cold, stimulates digestion, and supports the kidney

Submitted by KM2993

Feeling a bit congested? Not feeling quite so refresh. Well, do I have a recipe for you.

Submitted by MTNHIKER1971

Relax and enjoy this sweetly fragrant soothing tea.

Lavender is a natural muscle relaxer that relieves muscle spasms.

Popularly usesd in aromatherapy. Lightly spray lavender body spray on your pillows at night and pour some Lavender Oil into your bath and relax.

Helpful for depression, amenorrhea, burns, acne, rashes, arthritis, athlete's foot, carpal tunnel syndrome, psoriasis, vaginitis, insomnia, pain, palpitations, anxiety and nervousness.

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

This recipe seems decadent, but consumed in moderation, it can be a tasty AND healthy treat. Lavender is used mainly for aromatherapy to treat such conditions as depression, amenorrhea, burns, acne, rashes, arthritis, athlete's foot, carpal tunnel syndrome, psoriasis, vaginitis, insomnia, pain, palpitations, anxiety and nervousness. The flower buds have been used for centuries in bathing products, so most people don't know how wonderful it can be in the kitchen. Not only is it good for you (supplying 8% of the RDA of Vitamin A), but it makes the not just the kitchen, but the entire house smell wonderful when cooking, so you get the aromatherapy properties as well.

Submitted by NAUGHTYKATMRP

A great way to settle your stomach or to enjoy between meals.

http://rhodeygirltests.com/2010/04/23/hot-mint-tea/

Submitted by RHODEYGIRLTESTS

Ginger is thermogenic, it helps produce body heat and burn calories. Cucumbers and parsley are natural diuretics that will help reduce water retention.

Submitted by BAROQUE_PEARL

The best white teas come in loose-leaf form. Like green tea, white tea is best brewed with pure water that is very hot, but not boiling.

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

Research shows that oolong tea can actually tell your body to burn fat for energy! Caffeine combined with the tea's EGCGs work together to increase fat oxidation.

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

Great way to add vitamins to your water less expensively.

Submitted by BJUBILEE

This is a nice refreshing way to drink your water and get extra fruit in. Blueberries are in season now and can be successfully frozen. Whether by the glass or for a party brunch...you can't go wrong.

Submitted by TREAZURE

This is a beverage mexican style.

Submitted by SIRWAR

Submitted by HANANKE

This little addition to your water can make it much easier to get your 8 glasses in a day.

Submitted by PKJAPAN

My co-worker just told me about this spritzer and I thought I would share it since I love the cucumber/mint water my facial salon offers.

Here's to feeling like we are having a spa day.

Submitted by ZEN_WOMAN

I picked up this little trick at an upscale hotel I stayed at last year. It's delicious and helps make the transition from sweetened drinks to water so much easier. It tastes just like plain water until the fruity aftertaste hits you! Use any fruit that you want. I like strawberries.

Submitted by CARABY

This recipe uses lavender white tea to make a delicious homemade lavender lemonade that is great hot or cold.

Submitted by RIVERTAM

Drinking lime or lemon in water helps your body maintain its correct Ph balance, resulting in optimal health and weight.

Submitted by EARTHSEAME

Refreshing summer twist on water! So simple and SO yummy!

Submitted by MARTINIGAL413

You don't need the artificial colors and flavors to refuel during a long workout!

Submitted by BACKTOHERROOTS

My friend's grandmother used to make this for all special occasions so that the kids wouldn't have soft drinks

Submitted by _KSENIA_

Very refreshing! If you like peppermint, you'll love this! Great after a vigorous workout or just a hot day!!

Submitted by 50MYGOAL

This is a refreshing way to drink water and help lose weight at the same time. The fresh ginger helps to calm and sooth the GI tract as well as being tasty.

Submitted by DEEJSAL

Sassy water from flat belly diet

Submitted by LFINKENB

I heard this tasty drink can help boost your metabolism.

Submitted by KATHY81080

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

This is the soup mentioned in the 17 day diet, super yummy!

Submitted by DANCER71

2 TIMES PER DAY SOUP

Submitted by BABSH984

From Drs. Eades "30 Day Low Carb Diet Solution"

Submitted by BARNEYSTINSON

I saw this recipe in Woman's World, their recipe called for 4 cups of vegetables in total, but I tweaked this recipe to get much more veggies into the soup, and jazzed it up with extra spices, and tried to use "no salt added" wherever possible.

Submitted by CADMENTR

This is really easy and very good!!

Submitted by CATHIES

Submitted by ILOVEROSES

A great low GI soup, part of the 'Kick Start' diet which is great cold or hot and tastes yummy!

Submitted by KIANMARIE

Submitted by CHTESS

Serving is 2 cups

Submitted by KJESSICA13

Alot of diet soups include cabbage and I am not a cabbage person. I came across this recipe posted on recipezaar.com by Kittencel. Photo is by pam-i-am.

Submitted by SEESKO

Associated with a popular diet.

Submitted by LEXIBELL

Submitted by TDWATSON6

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

Does your garbage disposal still smell fishy days after washing fish in the sink?

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

Can't get organic fruits and veggies? Wash them with this and it will help remove those pesky pesticides!

Submitted by GROSSARAMA

The acetic acid in vinegar kills bacteria and helps to dissolve the wax and pesticide residues found on the skins of many fruits and vegetables. This is cheaper than store-bought, cleans more effectively than water alone and is all-natural

Submitted by LBWORTHY

This is an easy to make produce washing solution that helps to dissolve pesticides and fertilizer off your food. It is gentle and effective for all fruits and veggies. (Especially soft and hard-to-wash items, such as strawberries.) And, it is also safe to ingest because it's made of natural ingredients.

Submitted by LEMAVIS

The following three recipes for all natural pesticides come from Jenny Sigler's SparkPeople Contributor article: "Bugs, Bugs, Go Away"

Thank you Jenny!!

1. All-Natural Caffeine Spray for Roses
2. All-Natural Insecticide Soap
3. Natural All Purpose Pesticide

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

Thank you: "Bugs, Bugs, Go Away", by Jenny Sigler, SparkPeople Contributor

While humans tend to enjoy the burst of energy that comes from caffeine, insects, particularly aphids, who live roses do not.

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

Thank you: "Bugs, Bugs, Go Away", by Jenny Sigler, SparkPeople Contributor

Use biodegradable, plant-based liquid soap such as Dr. Bronner's Liquid Castile Soap.

The soap gets into the skin of the insect, causing dehydration and then extermination. It is particularly helpful for soft-bodied insects.

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

Thank you: "Bugs, Bugs, Go Away", by Jenny Sigler, SparkPeople Contributor

Deer and rabbits in particular shy away from the strong scent of garlic.

Use biodegradable, plant-based liquid soap such as Dr. Bronner's Liquid Castile Soap as the base for this recipe.

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

When I moved from Illinois to South Carolina, I was not aware that I was entering a world of Prehistoric Insects until I found one in my pajama drawer!

Because of the warm southern climate here, an outdoor insect like the "Palmetto Bug" a giant flying roach can survive all winter indoors or outdoors.

This bug is unpredictable. I was sitting in a dark theater watching the first minutes of a suspense movie, "The Box" starring Nichole Kidman. It was a scary movie but not nearly as scary as the shadow of a flying Palmetto Bug that flew through the theater and landed on the dark corner at the top of the movie screen.

You could not help but notice it. In the projector's light, the shadow of the bug had been magnified 100 times it's size!!

Once the bug landed, it set in the dark corner for a long time. Folks had started to relax and were trying to watch the movie.

As the movie's plot started to unfold, the music turned eery and the actors were showing anxiety and fear. The teenage girls sitting in the first few rows also started to get anxious.

Lord help us, the bug started moving again. It walked out onto the screen and made an entrance as if it were a paid actor.

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

It flew a couple of feet off the screen and grew bigger and bigger as it flew into the light from the projector.

The monster shadow did seem to be flying towards the teens before the bug landed back in the dark corner.

Unbeknown to what was happening inside the theater, the girls' dates came in from the Concession Stand with their mega large tub of popcorn and their drinks.

As if with perfect timing, the bug flew off the screen again. It started flying towards the girls just as the guys were trying to sit down.

The girls screaming and with arms flaying, jumped up from their seats trying to get away, knocking the popcorn up out of his hands, up into the air and over the seat!

There was chaos in that theater until that bug was no longer visible.

Even before this incident in the theater, the incident with my pajama drawer, seriously had me hoping that the Deep South would have a couple of long deep winter freezes of 40* to 60* below zero and deep freeze Palmetto Bugs into extinction like the "Wooly Mammoths" were frozen during the "Ice Age".

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

And as much as I dislike Palmetto Bugs, they don't bite and they are fairly harmless.

But there is another, a far more aggressive prehistoric insect that I have complete disdain for, the so called "Demon Mite".

Demon Mites, a cousin to the Dust Mite that can be found in any home, usually lives outdoors nesting in the Spanish Moss hanging from the beautiful old oak trees here.

Years ago, Spanish Moss was used as stuffing for mattresses. The term, "Don't let the bed bugs bite" is said to have come from this practice.

Like Head Lice, Demon Mites lay their eggs in your hair. But unlike Head Lice, they burrow beneath the skin, eat your hair roots and causes hair loss.

Because mites are tiny microscopic insects, they are invisible to the naked eye. You can feel them crawling on you and feel the sharp bite as they burrow under your skin, but you can not see them.

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

Because they are so tiny, their presence may go unnoticed until it is too late to prevent an infestation problem.

Mites breed as fast as fleas. Just one adult can breed as many as a hundred new mites in a matter of days. And unchecked, this can start a major infestation in your carpets in less than two weeks.

Unnoticed, this little monster can travel from house to house on shoes, in book bags, purses and on clothes. It jumps off inside the car, on the school bus, in a hotel, your home and at work.

Recently, I had an unexpected encounter with this predator insect in a public place of business. At first, I felt something crawling on my arm but I did not see anything.

Then something started biting me. I slapped at it but I still could not see anything until several hours later patches on my arm started turning red.

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

The Battle

I went to the Pharmacy as soon as I could to get some antiseptic and anti bacterial cream for the bites.

One of the employees there, who is also a friend recognized that I had been bitten by mites.

She knew what I was going through and was very kind to me!!

She has kids in grade school and has a lot of knowledge and experience in combating insect infestations.

She advised me to act quickly and be consistent to prevent these mites from getting inside and setting up a homestead in my house!!

She advised me to use the products persistently several times a week until no mites are present for two or more weeks because eggs will hatch every 8 days.

She walked me to the shelf to get the products needed to treat the bites and explained to me how to use the right products that will successfully control Predator Insects.

I acted immediately. I chose the following products:

1. Tea Tree Oil from Australia ~ available at Wal-Mart is a all natural topical skin oil that destroys bugs and any eggs that may get in your hair. Directions for use can be found online.

2. * "Rid" ~ well known and very effective to get rid of bugs that may nest in your hair.

3. Deep Woods Off ~ protects from biting insects in public areas that are known to be a threat.

4. "Pronto Plus" Dust Mite & Bedbug Spray ~ available at Wal-Mart in the Pharmacy. Spray in car, on carpet and on bedding to kill bed bugs and mites.

5. Seargents Carpet Flea and Tick Powder

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1

The Battle Plan

1. First, I sprayed the carpet in my car with Bedbug & Dust Mite Spray as soon as I got out of it and before I went into the house. Spray and vacuum the car as often as needed.

2. Then I put the clothes that I was wearing in a plastic bag for a week to kill any bugs or eggs that may have gotten on them. I washed them at the laundromat to wash them.

3. I treated my home with a carpet powder for killing fleas and vacuum everyday to prevent any infestation.

4. I sprayed the bedding with Bedbug & Dust Mite spray and put it in plastic bags for a week.

5. Until the threat is over, I put my pillows in the dryer for 30 minutes everyday.

6. I spray myself with Deep Woods Off and I spray my bags and any luggage I am carrying with Bedbug and Dust Mite Spray before going back into known danger zones or while traveling and staying in hotels.

7. I treated my hair with an all natural Australian Tree Tea Oil. Put a small amount on the scalp and hair for 15 minutes.

Comb through the hair with a fine tooth comb to make sure that nothing nested in my hair.

8. Then I used Dawn dish washing soap to wash it out of my hair.


Optional Products:

*"Bedlum" is a Bed Bug Spray that you can find on the internet.

*Bengal Ultra Fire Ant Powder ~ this is a very fine powder that kills many types of insects.

Submitted by VEHAMILTON1