Friday, July 31, 2020

Essential Oils Can Fight Viruses


What Essential Oils Can Fight Viruses


Forget risky drugs or waiting for a vaccine and use one of these nature’s pharmacy potions for immune health instead.

People have been using essential oils to help beat flu and plagues for centuries. Top health doctors know certain essential oils contain antiviral and antibacterial components for bolstering immunity against germs.

In the twenty-first century, viruses and bacterial infections are contracted wherever you go, be it at the workplace, store, airplane, or even your home with family and friends. Essential oils and their protective compounds may help guard you from catching a virus or flu—deadly even in a present-day pandemic as we live with a novel virus spreading around the globe.

As we learn more about Covid-19, a new respiratory virus—coronavirus--and other viruses and the flu (common in the fall and winter) we are not powerless. Nobody is immune. But it doesn't take a virologist to figure out that if you bolster your immune system, your body will be in better shape to ward off a virus and fight the symptoms of getting sick and if you do fall ill you may get well faster.

Here are essential oils that you can use to stave off viruses as part of your anti-virus arsenal to stay well.

5 Oils to Bolster Your Immune System

#1 Eucalyptus. Eucalyptus oil is one of the best essential oils to keep the flu at because it apparently boosts your immune system. Dr. Kurt Schnaubelt, founder of the Pacific Aromatherapy Institute points out that “the most effective essential oils for viral infections are those with sizable contents of cineole, mono terpene alcohol, and mono terpene hydrocarbons.” He adds, “These types of components form an effective antiviral synergy.”

What Scent-sational Rx to Use: Mix 6 drops of eucalyptus oil into a large pot of hot water. Cover your head with a lightweight towel and inhale the steam for a few minutes.

Why You’ll Feel Essentially Fine: Research shows that eucalyptus oil may be helpful because of its antiviral and antibacterial properties. Bronchitis, which is a viral health ailment that can be contagious, too, can be made less severe and recovery may be quicker than if one inhales eucalyptus oil.

#2 Lavender. During the fall and winter months when the temperature drops and we’re indoors more and closer to people, colds are common. But the right essential oil can help bolster your immunity and keep a miserable cold at bay!
What Scent-sational Rx to Use: Take a lavender-scented bath. Mix 3 drops of essential lavender oil with ¼ cup of jojoba or almond oil. Put the concoction into a tub filled with water.
Why You’ll Feel Essentially Fine: Lavender is a calming bacteria-fighting essential oil. Its anti-inflammatory compounds can help to keep you safeguarded against germs found on surfaces and the environment.
#3 Rosemary. When you have that irritating tickle in your throat and need to cough, well, its’ irritating. Hacking can hurt, too!
What Scent-sational Rx to Use: Combine 4 drops of rosemary essential oil into a diffuser or vaporizer. Or simply put the oil onto a handkerchief and take a whiff or two.
Why You’ll Feel Essentially Fine: Rosemary can be an aid to lessen the need to cough with due credit to a compound called 1,8-cinole. It may calm the muscles in the respiratory system, preventing coughing.
#4 Lemon. Ouch! A sore throat is an unwelcome irritation of scratch pain when you talk and swallow. It can be a sign that you may be coming down with a cold or flu. (Refer to #1.) Or it could be caused by seasonal allergies or even talking too much.
What Scent-sational Rx to Use: Try putting 1 drop of lemon oil in 8 ounces of hot water. Add 1 teaspoon raw honey for taste. Repeat twice daily.
Why You’ll Feel Essentially Fine: The oil has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. This popular oil also may trigger saliva, which can keep the throat hydrated. Use the magical cure--you’ll be chatting soon!
#5 Sage. The primary compounds include the main antibacterial compounds, including a-pinene, camphor, b-pinene, nyrcene, and limonene—which may help lessen the risk of developing inflammation, and even protect again microbes.
What Scent-sational Rx to Use: Make a spray or lotion including sage oil isn’t a bad idea. Note to self: Bring a sage spray before entering hotel rooms when traveling, and at home after being around people.
Why You’ll Feel Essentially Fine: Sage oil is a versatile essential oil. It can be used in a vaporizer to zap germs and fight viruses. You can use it diluted with a carrier oil such as olive oil. Sage is also a culinary oil—which means diluted you can use it (1 toothpick drop) in a soup or fish dish with garlic, another germ warrior.
The bottom line: The essential oil cure may be the cure-all for you. Plus, taking care of you during uncertain times – can provide more health benefits and keep your immune system healthy.

8 Anti-Virus Warrior Tips to Fight Against Germs

1. Drink plenty of fluids. Drinking water, herbal teas, and vitamin C-rich liquids can flush out any toxins that you accumulate.
2. Wash your hands often to keep germs away.
3. Eat right. Plant-based foods contain carotenoids and flavonoids that have antiviral and antibacterial activity. So eating nutritious produce daily will help keep your immune system strong.
4. Forego sugar. Sugar can interfere with the proper functioning of the immune system.
5. Take vitamin C and D or get it in fortified foods like cereal, juice, or milk. Most of the research says that it improves the immune system.
6. Zinc yourself well. Zinc is a potent virus-fighter that can cut the time you spend in misery.
7. Exercise, exercise, exercise. It lowers stress levels and ups better sleep to allow the immune to get revitalized." pointed out the health practitioner that taught me well.
8. Chill out. By keeping your stress levels down, sleep better and you can keep your immune system up and healthy.

Cal Orey, M.A. Is an author and journalist. Her books include the Healing Powers Series (Vinegar, Olive Oil, Chocolate, Honey, Coffee, Tea, Superfoods, Essential Oils, and Herbs and Spices) published by Kensington. (The collection has been featured by the Good Cook Book Club.) For more information, htp://www.calorey.com

Warm Summer Crumble Like a Longtime Friend


Mornings with Summer Crumble
During World War II, sweet fruit crumbles were a cheap replacement for pies thanks to shortages of pastry ingredients and rationing. Flour, sugar, butter, and oatmeal were common staples (much like during the current pandemic) for baking the special comfort food that can be shared with special people. 
Speaking of the past, one summer my late geologist friend and I went on a California book tour for the biography I wrote about him and his earthquake predictions. Our journey included Southern California – Glendale and Orange County. We even paid a visit to the San Andreas Fault -- and together were on TV in Palmdale.
After the desert town book signing, we stopped at a small roadside café. We ordered homemade fresh fruit crumble. It reminded us of San Jose, once rich with fruit trees instead of concrete buildings. As we ate the rustic crumble, he shared tales of nature as a passionate student, professor, geologist for Santa Clara County -- and predicting shakers.

Jim’s birthday was August 31. I miss him, a surrogate dad. On the south shore this summer to comfort my feelings of loss, isolation, and no traveling, I baked an earthy fruit crumble for two – to celebrate my longtime friend.
Fruit Crumble for Two
2 cups fruit, 3 large fresh apricots, chopped (or fresh cherries)
¼ cup fresh blackberries (optional)
1/8 cup (each) brown and granulated sugar
¼ cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Crumble Topping
¾ cup all-purpose flour
¼ cup European style butter, melted
½ cup brown sugar
¼ cup oats
Granulated sugar and cinnamon (to taste)
½ cup nuts (optional or for topping when crumble is baked)
In a bowl put chopped fruit. Add sugar, flour, spice, juice. Set aside. In another bowl combined flour, butter, sugar, and oats. Put fruit mix in ramekins. I filled up two to the rim. Top fruit with crumble topping. Sprinkle with sugar and cinnamon mixture. Bake about 40 to 50 minutes. It’s done when topping is golden brown and fruit is tender and bubbly. Best served warm. Serves 2 to 4 (if you split one). It is good plain or top with whipped cream or vanilla bean gelato.
So, this week one morning when it’s cool outdoors, I put together this easy treat. The cinnamon filled the cabin air and reminded me of my sweet and down-to-earth long relationship with a man who lived to be an octogenarian. He called me his biographer as he taught me the ropes of earthquake sensitives – cats, dogs, and people. When I took my first bite of the apricot crumble it was warm and earthy, like revisiting a dear friend who left an imprint on my heart and spirit.
* Update: a widely felt 4.2 earthquake rumbled through San Fernando Valley on July 30. A sign from above?
 -- Cal Orey, M.A. Is an author and journalist. Her books include the Healing Powers Series (Vinegar, Olive Oil, Chocolate, Honey, Coffee, Tea, Superfoods, Essential Oils, Herbs and Spices) published by Kensington. (The collection has been featured by the Good Cook Book Club.) Her website is http://www.calorey.com.

Sunday, July 26, 2020

Sun Tea to Ward of Viruses and Seasonal Allergies


It’s Time for Nature’s Sun Tea (with Honey)

The trend is savoring comfort foods and nutritious nibbles during these crazy times. I almost  whipped up a batch of sweet peanut butter cookies or a peach cobbler. Then, I pondered, “Why?  pack on those pesky pandemic pounds?” So, nostalgia hit and I recalled calming, sweet “Sun Tea” and decided if you were to come visit me at the cabin, I’d serve up tea. No cookies.

In the summers of the carefree pre-pandemic days, I’d spend time at my neighbor’s house around the corner. Her back yard was an Adam and Eve picturesque utopia, surrounded by fruit trees, flowers, and an herbal garden. One afternoon she was brewing tea outside. The black tea blend with a fruit tea made a bright orange-red colored liquid inside a mason jar with a clamped lid, steeping in the sunshine. She added honey, slices of lemon, and ice cubes. The citrusy aroma lingered in the air. With the afternoon sun, a dog basking on the shady deck, I felt a sense of calmness. She called it “Sun Tea” and it enable me to transcend to a peaceful place like sitting on one of our beaches in the sunshine, sipping a cold beverage.

Ebook sale for Honey at amazon
An easy way to brew tea from nature’s gift is to use the sun for its heat—and brew tea naturally. This is my new herbal version with a twist of local honey and sweet oranges—rich in immune-boosting vitamin C and antioxidants which you can enjoy to ward off viruses.

Sun Tea
6 cups cold water, fresh tap or bottled
3 black tea bags
Glass jar (large enough to hold 48 ounces)
1 herbal tea bag (I used chamomile and lavender)
1 ½ cups ice, small cubes
Orange wedges, for garnish
Basil or rosemary sprigs or traditional mint leaves
6 8-ounce iced tea glasses
Honey to taste (I used orange blossom honey)

Place water and tea bags in a glass jar with a clamp lid, cover, and put in direct sunlight for three to five hours. Once sun brewed, removed the tea bags and chill tea in the refrigerator. Put iced cubes about one-fourth full into tea glasses. Pour tea over the ice and add orange wedges and herb sprigs or leaves. Add honey. Serves six. *Toss leftovers after 24 hours for safety’s sake.
I apologize for not serving up yummy cookies or sweet cobbler. But you know what? Once you brew Sun Tea and sit back in your happy place – you and your mind and body will thank me or Mother Nature.

Cal Orey, M.A. is an author and journalist. Her books include the Healing Powers series (Vinegar, Olive Oil, Chocolate, Honey, Coffee, Tea, Superfoods, Essential Oils, and Herbs and Spices) published by Kensington. The Healing Powers Series is featured by Newsmax. Her website is http://www.calorey.com.

Wednesday, July 22, 2020

Superfoods Super Ebook Sale for Summer Cabin Fever

Superfoods for 2020--Your Favorites!

The Healing Powers of Superfoods: A Complete Guide to Nature's Favorite Functional Foods
Cybersale for 2020
2.99


#62
By Cal Orey

Tuesday, July 21, 2020

Irish Nachos--Yes! It Is A Superfood! Update: Superfoods Book Went Back to Press -- 2nd Printing

By Cal Orey
Do you like nachos? You can find them at convenient stores to restaurants. And these days you, like me, can and likely have made a batch in the comfort of your kitchen. There are a garden-variety of nacho types, which include a quartered tostada or tortilla chips, with topping such as meat, poultry, cheese, sour cream, and salsa. Then there are “Irish Nachos” aka nacho potato skins also with these tasty ingredients sprinkled on top of French fries -- and even baked potato wedges.

More than a decade ago, one summer day after swimming (ah, the pre-pandemic days), I was famished. But due to our south shore heat I didn’t want to cook. I didn’t know about nacho potato skins. So, I plopped a handful of multigrain tortilla chips onto a plate; sprinkled cheddar cheese on top. I nuked it until the cheese was hot and bubbly. My Brittanys – two dogs Simon and Seth – were behind me the entire time making this easy snack to create a human challenge. And yeah, this popular appetizer is crunchy, chewy, and gooey. It’s fun and tastes good.
Fast forward to a different time. New dog, and I have a more fussy palate. So, I gave nachos a tater twist for the health of it.

Nacho Potato Skins
6 medium potatoes, russet (or sweet if you prefer)
¼ cup butter
1/2-1 cup cheddar cheese or mozzarella, grated
2-4 Roma tomatoes, chopped (I also used store bought chunky salsa in a plastic container, not a jar)
1-1 1/2 cups lettuce (kale, baby spinach, or iceberg), shredded
1/4-1/2  cup sour cream
Hot peppers (to taste)
½ cup fresh green onion, sliced
Fresh rosemary, minced (to taste)
Chives, fresh or dried (to taste)

Wash taters and bake in the microwave for 15 to 20 minutes. (They are better baked in the oven but due to our heat wave – use the microwave.) Cut potatoes lengthwise or in four quarters (I did it this way.) On a plate, when cool scoop out potato but leave some intact. Brush each potato with butter. Place on a baking sheet and pop ‘em in 450 degrees for about 10 minutes or until crispy. Sprinkle with cheese. Bake a few more minutes. Remove from oven and top the cheesy potatoes with veggies, sour cream, and herbs. Makes 24 wedges or 12 halves. Serves 4-6. You can put leftovers in an airtight container and into the fridge for a day or so.

The bottom line: When you use chips it’s an appetizer as it can be with potatoes. But if you add plenty of toppings – like cheese, lettuce, and tomatoes -- it can be a light lunch or dinner. Embracing novelty can be delightful if we have choices – like choosing toppings for potato skins. Pair your Irish Nachos with iced tea or cold lemonade to chill and feel in control. That can be comforting (like hanging out with a canine companion) during these new and uncertain times.
-- Cal Orey, M.A. Is an author and journalist. Her books include the Healing Powers Series (Vinegar, Olive Oil, Chocolate, Honey, Coffee, Tea, Superfoods, Essential Oils, Herbs and Spices) published by Kensington. (The collection has been featured by the Good Cook Book Club.) Her website is http://www.calorey.com

Sunday, July 19, 2020

Follow Your Nose to Nature's Pharmacy: Essential Oils Can Fight Viruses


What Essential Oils Can Fight Viruses


Forget risky drugs or waiting for a vaccine and use one of these nature’s pharmacy potions for immune health instead.

People have been using essential oils to help beat flu and plagues for centuries. Top health doctors know certain essential oils contain antiviral and antibacterial components for bolstering immunity against germs.

In the twenty-first century, viruses and bacterial infections are contracted wherever you go, be it at the workplace, store, airplane, or even your home with family and friends. Essential oils and their protective compounds may help guard you from catching a virus or flu—deadly even in a present-day pandemic as we live with a novel virus spreading around the globe.

As we learn more about Covid-19, a new respiratory virus—coronavirus--and other viruses and the flu (common in the fall and winter) we are not powerless. Nobody is immune. But it doesn't take a virologist to figure out that if you bolster your immune system, your body will be in better shape to ward off a virus and fight the symptoms of getting sick and if you do fall ill you may get well faster.

Here are essential oils that you can use to stave off viruses as part of your anti-virus arsenal to stay well.

5 Oils to Bolster Your Immune System

#1 Eucalyptus. Eucalyptus oil is one of the best essential oils to keep the flu at because it apparently boosts your immune system. Dr. Kurt Schnaubelt, founder of the Pacific Aromatherapy Institute points out that “the most effective essential oils for viral infections are those with sizable contents of cineole, mono terpene alcohol, and mono terpene hydrocarbons.” He adds, “These types of components form an effective antiviral synergy.”

What Scent-sational Rx to Use: Mix 6 drops of eucalyptus oil into a large pot of hot water. Cover your head with a lightweight towel and inhale the steam for a few minutes.

Why You’ll Feel Essentially Fine: Research shows that eucalyptus oil may be helpful because of its antiviral and antibacterial properties. Bronchitis, which is a viral health ailment that can be contagious, too, can be made less severe and recovery may be quicker than if one inhales eucalyptus oil.

#2 Lavender. During the fall and winter months when the temperature drops and we’re indoors more and closer to people, colds are common. But the right essential oil can help bolster your immunity and keep a miserable cold at bay!
What Scent-sational Rx to Use: Take a lavender-scented bath. Mix 3 drops of essential lavender oil with ¼ cup of jojoba or almond oil. Put the concoction into a tub filled with water.
Why You’ll Feel Essentially Fine: Lavender is a calming bacteria-fighting essential oil. Its anti-inflammatory compounds can help to keep you safeguarded against germs found on surfaces and the environment.
#3 Rosemary. When you have that irritating tickle in your throat and need to cough, well, its’ irritating. Hacking can hurt, too!
What Scent-sational Rx to Use: Combine 4 drops of rosemary essential oil into a diffuser or vaporizer. Or simply put the oil onto a handkerchief and take a whiff or two.
Why You’ll Feel Essentially Fine: Rosemary can be an aid to lessen the need to cough with due credit to a compound called 1,8-cinole. It may calm the muscles in the respiratory system, preventing coughing.
#4 Lemon. Ouch! A sore throat is an unwelcome irritation of scratch pain when you talk and swallow. It can be a sign that you may be coming down with a cold or flu. (Refer to #1.) Or it could be caused by seasonal allergies or even talking too much.
What Scent-sational Rx to Use: Try putting 1 drop of lemon oil in 8 ounces of hot water. Add 1 teaspoon raw honey for taste. Repeat twice daily.
Why You’ll Feel Essentially Fine: The oil has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. This popular oil also may trigger saliva, which can keep the throat hydrated. Use the magical cure--you’ll be chatting soon!
#5 Sage. The primary compounds include the main antibacterial compounds, including a-pinene, camphor, b-pinene, nyrcene, and limonene—which may help lessen the risk of developing inflammation, and even protect again microbes.
What Scent-sational Rx to Use: Make a spray or lotion including sage oil isn’t a bad idea. Note to self: Bring a sage spray before entering hotel rooms when traveling, and at home after being around people.
Why You’ll Feel Essentially Fine: Sage oil is a versatile essential oil. It can be used in a vaporizer to zap germs and fight viruses. You can use it diluted with a carrier oil such as olive oil. Sage is also a culinary oil—which means diluted you can use it (1 toothpick drop) in a soup or fish dish with garlic, another germ warrior.

The bottom line: The essential oil cure may be the cure-all for you. Plus, taking care of you during uncertain times – can provide more health benefits and keep your immune system healthy.

8 Anti-Virus Warrior Tips to Fight Against Germs


During the fall we're often indoors more often and can cause us to be more vulnerable to catching a cold or flu. Other ways to build your immune system? Take a look.

1. Drink plenty of fluids. Drinking water, herbal teas, and vitamin C-rich liquids can flush out any toxins that you accumulate.
2. Wash your hands often to keep germs away.
3. Eat right. Plant-based foods contain carotenoids and flavonoids that have antiviral and antibacterial activity. So eating nutritious produce daily will help keep your immune system strong.
4. Forego sugar. Sugar can interfere with the proper functioning of the immune system.
5. Take vitamin C and D or get it in fortified foods like cereal, juice, or milk. Most of the research says that it improves the immune system.
6. Zinc yourself well. Zinc is a potent virus-fighter that can cut the time you spend in misery.
7. Exercise, exercise, exercise. It lowers stress levels and ups better sleep to allow the immune to get revitalized." pointed out the health practitioner that taught me well.
8. Chill out. By keeping your stress levels down, sleep better and you can keep your immune system up and healthy.

Cal Orey, M.A. Is an author and journalist. Her books include the Healing Powers Series (Vinegar, Olive Oil, Chocolate, Honey, Coffee, Tea, Superfoods, Essential Oils, and Herbs and Spices) published by Kensington. (The collection has been featured by the Good Cook Book Club.) For more information.

Tuesday, July 14, 2020

TEA Time

By Cal Orey


Last  August 1, The Healing Powers of Tea once again gets bestselling banner on amazon!
It's a perfect read for late summer days... a perfect book to escape with travelogues, DIY home cures, and recipes...



Also, The Healing Powers of Tea has attracted readers on a variety of online bookseller websites, including amazon, barnes and noble, walmart, kobo, apple, and google.

This book is #6 in the Healing Powers Series... 

Also, the popular, prestigious Fairmont Hotel in Victoria, B.C., Canada will be carrying both The Healing Powers of Tea and The Healing Powers of Honey in their tearoom gift shop. Foreign rights to Estonia! Publisher's Weekly Review! It's a favorite in the Healing Powers Series. *Healing Powers of Herbs and Spices: Timeless Treasures is ready for pre-order, coming this December!