Garlic is Perfect for American Heart Month--February

 Great garlic for your health’s sake

Cal Orey
Special to the Tribune

Garlic can help you to guard your immune system and ward off colds, flu, and viruses.

One trip to Anchorage, Alaska on the night before flying home, I felt a cold coming on. I ordered artisan Greek vegetarian garlic pizza. I sipped herbal tea while savoring bits of fresh garlic, tomatoes, and olives. I scheduled my flight later to get a good night’s sleep. I did not get sick. I give credit to the garlic, nature’s cure that protected me like it is believed to have done in the Middle Ages when people used the herb to fight the bubonic plague.

Fast forward to today during late summer around the lake. We all want to stay healthy, right? It’s the time to add garlic to your diet. Essential compounds in garlic are, well, essential. One important ingredient from garlic allicin which is a heart healthy treasure and also found in the other vegetable, onion. Another compound worth noting is diallyl disulfide which is in the anti-cancer lock box. Its plentiful list of ingredients makes this herb antimicrobial, antiviral, heart healthy, and a cancer fighter. Garlic may not make the grade as a super nutrient-dense herb. But that does not mean antioxidant-rich garlic is unhealthy. Like vinegar and olive oil, remarkable garlic deserves its own book.

Garlic is known as the heart-healthy herb, thanks to its compounds, especially sulfur. Stacks of studies, past and present, show it can help keep the numbers in check for blood pressure, cholesterol, and lower the odds of heart attacks and strokes. 

Also, garlic is an immune system booster, which may lower your risk of developing cancer, according to stacks of research. Holistic doctors believe in the healing powers of garlic, too. It is known that garlic contains antiviral compounds.

Shake It Up Now: Garlic is a popular culinary herb in a variety of dishes. My personal favorite is sautéing the cloves to give it a mellow flavor in stir-fries and herby Italian sauces. I eat garlic when I am traveling.

Garlic is available in many forms, from chopped fresh cloves to minced, ground powder, and in spice blends. Capsules contain the active ingredient allicin. It can be consumed and used topically.

Safety Sound Bite: Do not consume more than two cloves of raw garlic daily. If you overindulge, the consequences can be digestive problems, such as heartburn or acid reflux, and flatulence. Remember, less is more.

Here is recipe inspired by my past in grad school. Pasta plates, like this one, are not pricey, and are fast to make.

Immune-Boosting Pasta with Garlic and Tomatoes

Pasta with garlic and tomatoes is an Italian dish that can be made quickly. Make sure to use your favorite extra virgin olive oil for it. This recipe is easy on the budget. Two favorite herbs — garlic and parsley — make it a perfect dish for any time year-round. It is a fail-proof recipe which can be used for a side dish or a light meal.

¾ pound of spaghetti, cooked

Sea salt to taste

6 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

8 garlic cloves, minced

¾ teaspoon lemon pepper

1 cup Roma tomatoes, chopped

½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated

Marjoram or basil for garnish

Bring a large pot of water to boil. Add pasta and salt. (Italian chefs recommend salting the water to the salinity of sea water.) Cook pasta, several minutes, until al dente (not overcooked). Drain. Do not rinse. Heat oil in a nonstick skillet over low heat, then add garlic and sauté, do not overcook. Stir-fry tomatoes in same pan. Transfer drained pasta to warm serving bowl. Add the garlic and tomatoes to pasta. Toss. Top with cheese.

Makes 4 servings.

So, as we’re edging near autumn but still are in late summer, this recipe is ideal for a hot but easy almost no-cook dinner. Add fresh herbs and spices and you’ve got a super flavorful, healthful dish. And heck, don’t forget the wine. It has antioxidants and will help you chill.

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.) www.calorey.com

Spaghetti and sauce in a frying pan are sprinkled with cheese and fresh basil on a background of spices and onions. (Getty Images)

Herbs & Spices for Your Pre-Springtime Wellness

 Key To Vibrant Health For All Generations Is In Your Kitchen . . .

Anise, bay leaf, garlic, parsley, turmeric, and more — for thousands of years, herbs and spices have been praised for preserving and flavoring food, as well as preventing and curing illnesses.

The latest research reveals that the seasonings already in your pantry — or easily found fresh in your supermarket or garden — can lower your risk for cancer, heart disease, and obesity.

This A-to-Z guide catalogs the most popular and versatile herbs and spices, drawn from the Mediterranean Diet but suitable for any diet plan. You will learn how to harness herbalism to heal your body and mind.

In the pages of The Healing Powers of Herbs and Spices you will discover how you can naturally:

• Bring abundant zest to your table while lowering your cholesterol, balancing your blood sugar, and revving up your metabolism — at any age!
• Ward off colds and flu, banish a hacking cough, and even ease PMS or menopause woes, by adding tasty plant therapy to your favorite food or drink.
• Lessen your anxiety and boost your mood with aromatic natural ingredients found in dried and fresh flavorings.
• Soothe aches and pains without harmful side effects — and trigger feel-good endorphins — using sweet and savory garnishes, including edible flowers.
• Create in-home spa treatments using the same herbal potions featured at luxury spa resorts.

With over 50 taste-tempting recipes, along with personal stories and fascinating historical anecdotes on medicinal uses dating back to biblical times, The Healing Powers of Herbs and Spices is your go-to guide for embracing limitless energy and healthy longevity while feasting on memorable meals full of mouthwatering aroma and deliciousness!

Here are just a few of the herb-a-licious recipes:

Cinnamon Rolls with Allspice Glaze

These easy-to-make rolls are guaranteed to please anyone with a sweet tooth. This version is sweet and spicy, Serve warm with tea. It’s a gift from nature’s herbal garden.

 

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Couscous with Apricots and Toasted Cumin

This recipe is worth dishing up — it brings you the exotic tastes of the East. The mixture of herbs and spices, plus a dash of honey and lemon, are sure to please even the most discerning palate.

 

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Shrimp with Wild Rice Cakes and Roasted Pepper-Dill Aioli

Bright and fresh, this recipe is the perfect complement to a summer night. A mix of dill, mustard, and garlic creates a complex but light flavor profile that pairs great with a crisp white wine.

 

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Herby Tostadas with Cilantro Sauce

Packed with crunch and zesty cilantro sauce with a spicy flavor and healthful kick, this quick and satisfying dish is ready in a snap and is perfect for an outdoor meal.

 

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And so much more! (Click to order Gift Book)

Get all of these revitalizing recipes and improve your health the delicious way when you take advantage of our special offer.

Normally this NEW book retails for $16.95, and it’s a steal at that price, BUT . . .

Through this exclusive direct-from-the-publisher offer, you won’t pay a dime for the book. All we ask is that you cover $4.95 shipping and handling.

The Healing Power of Getting a Second Opinion

By Cal Orey, M.A.

Female trouble? Allergies? Dental Woe? It may be time to get a fresh diagnosis for peace of mind. Often combining conventional medicine and a holistic approach is the right path.

My young male cat, Gandalf, once presented a mysterious ailment. The initial vet, with a flair for the dramatic, suggested a grim prognosis: a deadly feline disease, verifiable only through an autopsy. This seemed, off. A second opinion from a more pragmatic veterinarian revealed the true culprit: Feline Urological Syndrome, a common, uncomfortable, male cat affliction. One operation later, Gandalf dodged the grim reaper's early call, lived out his remaining eight-and-a-half lives happily, sharing his presence with me for nearly two decades. The moral of this purr-fect tale? Always seek a second opinion after a diagnosis; sometimes, the first one is just a cat-astrophe waiting to happen.

Getting a second opinion for health concerns, whether for yourself or your beloved pet, can be a smart and healthy decision. It empowers you with more information, potentially leading to better outcomes and greater peace of mind. Here are five reasons why seeking a second opinion is beneficial.

Catching What Might Be Missed the First Time Around: Think of it like this: two sets of eyes are often better than one, especially when it comes to complex health puzzles. This fresh perspective can be priceless, ensuring no stone is left unturned in the quest for optimal health for both you and your furry friend.

Exploring All Your Options (and Maybe Discovering New Ones!): Sometimes, there isn't just one "right" way to tackle a health issue. A second opinion can introduce you to alternative treatments, different surgical procedures, or even new meds that weren't discussed initially.

Boosting Your Peace of Mind: If two professionals agree on a diagnosis and treatment, you'll feel much more confident moving forward.

Avoiding Unnecessary Procedures or Treatments: A second opinion can confirm that a less aggressive approach may be a solution to a problem. This can save you (or your pet) from discomfort, recovery time, and hefty costs.

Empowering You to Be an Active Participant in Health Decisions: When you seek a second opinion, you're actively engaging in your (or your pet's) healthcare journey. It transforms you from feeling powerless into taking charge and being pro-active, which is a fantastic feeling!

CAL OREY, M.A., is a bestselling author-novelist specializing in topics such as adventure, health, nutrition, and science. She holds a bachelor’s degree and master’s degree in English (Creative Writing) from San Francisco State University. Her books include the popular Healing Powers series, and Courage with Paws, Time-Traveling Tabby, the new, revised 2nd edition of The Healing Powers of Honey (pre-order for 2026), and The Healing Powers of Olive Oil, 3^rd edition in progress.  She is a South Lake Tahoe local. Her website is www.calorey.com

Catch the Buzz: Revised and Updated Revolutionary HONEY Book Coming to You!

 The Healing Powers of Honey: Revised and Updated: A Complete Guide to Nature's Remarkable Nectar

PRE-ORDER  

HEALTH AND HONEY BREAKTHROUGHS, HONEY BEES VANISHING, AND HEART-HEALTHY FRESH RECIPES FOR YEAR-ROUND WELLNESS!

Cal Orey

FRONTLIST | Aug 25, 2026 | On Sale Date: Aug 25, 2026

9780806545721, 0806545720

Trade Paperback

$18.95 USD, $24.95 CAD

Returnable: Y

320 pages

Series: Healing Powers

9 in H | 6 in W | 0.8 lb Wt

Status: Forthcoming

Sales Rights: World

• UPDATED WITH NEW MATERIAL: About 25% of this edition is new and updated material, including new recipes and remedies; resource lists; expert commentary; a new foreword; the latest research findings on honey's health benefits, such as its antioxidant, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties; new studies in the Mediterranean diet, heart health, immune system; data on our endangered honey bees and critical issue of Colony Collapse Disorder (CCD); and heartwarming and adventurous anecdotes.
• A PROVEN SUCCESS : The Healing Powers of Honey has achieved #1 Top Rated status on Amazon, demonstrating an irrefutable track record of sales and reader satisfaction. It has sold around 20,000 copies in print alone—and the e-book is a steady seller.
• WORLDWIDE BACKLIST BESTSELLER! Cal Orey’s Healing Powers books have sold hundreds of thousands of copies, been translated into a dozen languages, and landed on bestseller lists across the world. The Healing Powers of Vinegar has sold more than 200,000 copies, has more than 700 ratings on Amazon, and was the #1 bestselling health book in South Korea. All previous Healing Powers books were picked up by NewsMax.
• SWEET SOLUTION TO SURGING DEMAND: · During the COVID-19 pandemic, beekeepers experienced a surge in demand for the disease-fighting, antioxidant-rich “apocalyptic food” widely believed to boost immune health. As the global honey market, fueled by consumer demand for natural sweeteners, surges towards a projected 15 billion by 2032, the need for a comprehensive and updated guide to honey’s health benefits has never been greater.
• NEW FOREWORD: The new foreword from Jonny Bowden, Ph.D, bestselling author of 150 Healthiest Foods on Earth, is an expert endorsement that adds authority, credibility, and prestige.
• NOW WITH MANUKA HONEY: Manuka honey, known for its unique antibacterial properties, holds a premium position in the honey market and is a new addition to this edition.
• NATURAL REMEDIES AND RECIPES. Heart disease remains a leading cause of death globally. The American Heart Association reports that cardiovascular diseases (CVD), including heart disease, are the number one cause of death worldwide. This underscores the continued relevance of the book’s content on heart health.·With ongoing health concerns, there’s heightened focus on immune health. (COVID variants and other viruses continue to be important issues.) Honey’s immune-boosting properties will resonate with readers seeking natural ways to support their health.
• HOME CURES AS AN ALTERNATIVE TO OTC MEDICINE. Readers interested in homeopathic remedies and natural cures will love Cal Orey’s more than 50 home cures that combat digestive woes to skin woes, while boosting immunity.
• AN EXPANDED MARKET:  The inclusion of new research on Colony Collapse Disorder (CCD) and honey bees broadens the book’s appeal to environmentalists, beekeepers, and those concerned about sustainable superfood practices.
• CONNECTED AND PASSIONATE AUTHOR: Cal Orey is a frequent guest on live and internet national radio stations, and the media has covered her work in national magazines including Woman’s World, Complete Woman, Energy Times, MSN Health and Fitness, and other online publications. She has promoted her Healing Powers books as a News Segment guest on Coast to Coast AM and has a weekly column in the Tahoe Daily Tribune (online and hard copy) and a monthly column for Oracle Visionary (online and hard copy).

Latest Buzz: Honey Book Author Loves Sticky Scene in "The Pitt"

 By Cal Orey, M.A.--Author of #1 Hit The Healing Powers of Honey (1-Day Deal 1.99 on Amazon & Kobo...Groundbreaking 1st ed. and pre-order 2nd ed.--revolutionary and shocking stories!)

Last night I watched the popular show "The Pitt," episode 3, and with interest I viewed a nurse observing a patient's leg burn treated with honey. Dr. Robby explains that while honey has anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, it isn't suitable for deep burns and shouldn't be the first treatment. But note, it can be used on minor burns if the skin isn't broken and the burn is less than 2 inches in diameter. Also, honey dressings may be more effective than standard treatments for superficial burns. (Source: Comic Book Club). And yeah, this scene is realistic, sort of.

As the author of the bestselling book "The Healing Powers of Honey," I can tell you more than a decade ago I discovered the virtues of honey and treatment for burns when I interviewed the late renowned Dr. Peter Molan. The doctor explained to me how hospitals do indeed use medicinal honey for treatment of wounds.

Q: Do you feel any large drug company in America may produce a manuka honey product and sell it as a prescribed medicine to hospitals and clinics?

A: Jars of manuka honey on sale in the USA are not approved by the FDA for any therapeutic use, although they are legitimately sold as a food just like any other honey. However, there are various brands of manuka honey on sale with FDA approval for treating wounds. Some are tubes of manuka honey, and some are wound dressings containing manuka honey. All are sterilized products. It is smaller medical companies producing these, but large drug companies are now showing an interest. 

Author's Note: Due to the strong research backing Manuka honey, the overwhelming evidence of its success in hospitals, and researchers with doctors pushing for its approval, the FDA finally approved Manuka honey in 2007 for medical use.

In the revised and updated 2nd edition of the popular honey book, the author includes more natural healing cures.

Overview

Learn how to boost your immune system, combat ailments, and so much more, all with the natural power of honey—the pantry staple and sustainable superfood that’s also the green choice for healthy living, homeopathic remedies, and natural cures.

A newly revised and updated edition of the #1 hit, now with new research, heart-healthy recipes, honey bee data, and home cures!

DISCOVER HONEY’S AMAZING BEE-HEALTHY POWERS
Did you know? . . .

Eating honey, Mother Nature’s ancient medicine, can still work its healing magic and help lower the risk of disease—adding quality and years to your life—at any age!

The buzz: Consumers are seeking healthy alternatives to refined sugar due to concerns about obesity, diabetes, and heart disease, the #1 killer.

Yes! Raw, unprocessed honey is more popular than ever before and is touted a “superfood” as it replaces unhealthy table sugar and artificial sweeteners—helping to combat the skyrocketing rise in chronic ailments and life-threatening diseases.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, beekeepers experienced a surge in demand for the disease-fighting, antioxidant-rich “apocalyptic food” widely believed to boost immune health.

Increasing threats to honey bees’ survival may harm the planet’s nourishing superfoods that you love to eat—such as fruits and nuts—that the honey bee pollinates.

Honey, known as Mother Nature’s “nectar of the gods,” is an ancient remedy noted in the Bible and used for centuries to quell a cough, soothe a sore throat, energize you, and even calm frazzled nerves due to stressors such as post-COVID-19 virus variants and climate change health effects.

Enjoy gripping and adventurous survival stories about honey bees and humans as well as fascinating reasons why the popularity of honey is soaring, Manuka honey medicinal uses are surging, and herbal flavored varietals are trending. You’ll also love new heart-healthy recipes with honey twists such as Whipped Ricotta Toast with Lemon Thyme Honey, Hot Honey Glazed Turkey Loaf, and Turmeric Honey Immunity Booster, plus buzzworthy home cures thanks to honey’s gifts (including super “bee foods” like propolis and royal jelly) from the hive! 

“This eye-opening book provides you with a delicious truth of the traditional Mediterranean diet. Honey is a sumptuous route to optimal health.” —Dr. Will Clower, author of The French Don’t Diet Plan

Editorial Reviews

Praise for The Healing Powers Books by Cal Orey

"The cure is in the cupboard with this book's insights that will tempt your taste buds--and revive you from head to toe." —Ann Louise Gittleman, Ph.D., author of Radical Metabolism on The Healing Powers of Herbs and Spices

"In The Healing Powers of Superfoods, we're thankfully re-discovering these amazingly healthy foods again today." —Dr. Will Clower, CEO Mediterranean Wellness on The Healing Powers of Superfoods

"A practical, health-oriented book that everyone who wants to stay healthy and live longer should read." —Patricia Bragg, N.D., Ph.D., author of Apple Cider Vinegar

From the Publisher

Latest Buzz: Honey Book Author Loves Sticky Scene in "The Pitt"

By Cal Orey, M.A.--Author of #1 Hit The Healing Powers of Honey

Last night I watched the popular show "The Pitt," episode 3, and with interest I viewed a nurse observing a patient's leg burn treated with honey. Dr. Robby explains that while honey has anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, it isn't suitable for deep burns and shouldn't be the first treatment. But note, it can be used on minor burns if the skin isn't broken and the burn is less than 2 inches in diameter. Also, honey dressings may be more effective than standard treatments for superficial burns. (Source: Comic Book Club). And yeah, this scene is realistic, sort of.

As the author of the bestselling book "The Healing Powers of Honey," I can tell you more than a decade ago I discovered the virtues of honey and treatment for burns when I interviewed the late renowned Dr. Peter Molan. The doctor explained to me how hospitals do indeed use medicinal honey for treatment of wounds.

Q: Do you feel any large drug company in America may produce a manuka honey product and sell it as a prescribed medicine to hospitals and clinics?

A: Jars of manuka honey on sale in the USA are not approved by the FDA for any therapeutic use, although they are legitimately sold as a food just like any other honey. However, there are various brands of manuka honey on sale with FDA approval for treating wounds. Some are tubes of manuka honey, and some are wound dressings containing manuka honey. All are sterilized products. It is smaller medical companies producing these, but large drug companies are now showing an interest. 

Author's Note: Due to the strong research backing Manuka honey, the overwhelming evidence of its success in hospitals, and researchers with doctors pushing for its approval, the FDA finally approved Manuka honey in 2007 for medical use.

In the revised and updated 2nd edition of the popular honey book, the author includes more natural healing cures.

Overview

Learn how to boost your immune system, combat ailments, and so much more, all with the natural power of honey—the pantry staple and sustainable superfood that’s also the green choice for healthy living, homeopathic remedies, and natural cures.

A newly revised and updated edition of the #1 hit, now with new research, heart-healthy recipes, honey bee data, and home cures!

DISCOVER HONEY’S AMAZING BEE-HEALTHY POWERS
Did you know? . . .

Eating honey, Mother Nature’s ancient medicine, can still work its healing magic and help lower the risk of disease—adding quality and years to your life—at any age!

The buzz: Consumers are seeking healthy alternatives to refined sugar due to concerns about obesity, diabetes, and heart disease, the #1 killer.

Yes! Raw, unprocessed honey is more popular than ever before and is touted a “superfood” as it replaces unhealthy table sugar and artificial sweeteners—helping to combat the skyrocketing rise in chronic ailments and life-threatening diseases.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, beekeepers experienced a surge in demand for the disease-fighting, antioxidant-rich “apocalyptic food” widely believed to boost immune health.

Increasing threats to honey bees’ survival may harm the planet’s nourishing superfoods that you love to eat—such as fruits and nuts—that the honey bee pollinates.

Honey, known as Mother Nature’s “nectar of the gods,” is an ancient remedy noted in the Bible and used for centuries to quell a cough, soothe a sore throat, energize you, and even calm frazzled nerves due to stressors such as post-COVID-19 virus variants and climate change health effects.

Enjoy gripping and adventurous survival stories about honey bees and humans as well as fascinating reasons why the popularity of honey is soaring, Manuka honey medicinal uses are surging, and herbal flavored varietals are trending. You’ll also love new heart-healthy recipes with honey twists such as Whipped Ricotta Toast with Lemon Thyme Honey, Hot Honey Glazed Turkey Loaf, and Turmeric Honey Immunity Booster, plus buzzworthy home cures thanks to honey’s gifts (including super “bee foods” like propolis and royal jelly) from the hive! 

“This eye-opening book provides you with a delicious truth of the traditional Mediterranean diet. Honey is a sumptuous route to optimal health.” —Dr. Will Clower, author of The French Don’t Diet Plan

Editorial Reviews

Praise for The Healing Powers Books by Cal Orey

"The cure is in the cupboard with this book's insights that will tempt your taste buds--and revive you from head to toe." —Ann Louise Gittleman, Ph.D., author of Radical Metabolism on The Healing Powers of Herbs and Spices

"In The Healing Powers of Superfoods, we're thankfully re-discovering these amazingly healthy foods again today." —Dr. Will Clower, CEO Mediterranean Wellness on The Healing Powers of Superfoods

"A practical, health-oriented book that everyone who wants to stay healthy and live longer should read." —Patricia Bragg, N.D., Ph.D., author of Apple Cider Vinegar

From the Publisher

Beat SAD with Happy Foods... Light, Plants, and Furry Friends

  7 HAPPY FOODS TO BEAT TAHOE’S WINTER BLUES

How to Tackle 

"Blue Monday" aka the 3rd Monday in January

 By Cal Orey, M.A.

As a long-time resident of Lake Tahoe, in the late spring to fall I tend to my yellow aspens and red maples, bask in the warm sunshine on the deck, and walk my Aussie along scenic trails. But as Old Man Winter rolls in, the first storms hit, and suddenly, the sun is nowhere to be found. The slain piles up, and with it comes a wave of melancholy for sunny days. I realize how much I miss those happy days in the gardens with pots of wild lavender plants; and the lack of sunlight begins to affect my mood.

Welcome to Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), a type of blues that hits during early winter when daylight hours are shorter. In places like Tahoe, where slushy snowfall can be slippery and sometimes block out sunlight, you, too, may feel waves of gloom and doom… And late January through February can be the coldest and cruelest months of all...

 So, can happy foods come to the rescue? Sure, superfoods like these seven can help boost feel-good brain chemicals--dopamine, endorphins, and serotonin-- during darker months in Tahoe, and might indeed brighten your day!

 1. Fatty Fish:  Salmon (Atlantic type is available here) is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are known to boost serotonin levels in the brain. Serotonin helps regulate mood and higher levels can lead to feelings of happiness and well-being. Try: Add seasons like rosemary, thyme, parsley (fresh or dried) and lemon slices for flavor.

2. Walnuts. Nuts are high in magnesium, which play a role in regulating serotonin production. A deficiency in magnesium has been linked to anxiety and the blues. Try: Munch on 1/4 cup walnuts mixed with 1/4 cup raisins as a quick snack.

3. Kale and Spinach. These green veggies are packed with a B-vitamin that helps make dopamine—that brain chemical linked to pleasure. Higher dopamine levels can improve mood and motivation. Try: A ready-made kale mix or raw spinach salad and add fresh tomatoes with a splash of red wine vinegar and olive oil.

4. Whole Grains. Think fortified whole grain cereal like oatmeal that help stabilize blood sugar levels, which can prevent mood swings. Whole grains also promote serotonin due to their fiber content, leading to improved mood. Try: Eat a bowl fortified whole grain cereal (I like Total) and add fresh fruit, and the fortified sunshine vitamin D and calcium-fortified organic low-fat milk.

5. Berries. Blueberries and strawberries are rich in antioxidants that fight oxidative stress in the brain, lowering symptoms of winter blues. They support overall brain health, contributing to better mood. Try: Savor 1/2 cup fresh berries plain or mix into 1 cup of low sugar yogurt.

6. Coffee. Ah, java can boost mood by boosting dopamine levels due to caffeine's stimulating effects on the nervous system. Moderation is key. Lose sugar, cream, and whip...Try: Brew a cup of premium blend and add a splash of vitamin D-fortified organic low-fat milk.

7. Potatoes: Taters contain carbs that help increase serotonin; they also provide vitamin B6, which is essential for a calming feel-good effect which can boost mood and help sleep. Try: Bake a russet potato and flavor with chives, black pepper, and a sprinkle of Parm shavings.

 So, I, and you, too, may dread SAD during Tahoe's winters due to reduced sunlight from cloud cover, but embracing happy foods can boost your overall mood and well-being until springtime rolls in.

  LIGHTEN UP!

·         Get outdoors in the sunshine on warmer days.

·         Exercise will make you feel better.

·         Open all blinds during the daytime.

·         Place cozy throws on furniture, warm comforters on beds.

·         Live in rooms full of light and amusement.

·         Layer clothing.

·         Stay hydrated with water and herbal teas.

 CAL OREY, M.A., is a bestselling author-novelist specializing in topics such as adventure, health, romance, and science. She holds a bachelor’s degree and master’s degree in English (Creative Writing) from San Francisco State University. Her books include the popular Healing Powers series, and Courage with Paws. (Book 2) Time Traveler Tabby, and a thrilling co-authored sci-fi series--The Ghost Ships to be released this winter.  The Healing Powers of Honey, 2nd ed. is coming this summer (pre-order); The Healing Powers of Olive Oil, 3rd ed. is in progress.

Achoo! Extreme Dander & Dust

 Mastering Extreme Dander & Dust

 Secrets to Quell Pesky Symptoms

By Cal Orey, M.A.

Woke up to the usual furry alarm clocks: a double-coated Australian Shepherd on my feet and a big orange really fluffy tabby cat using my side as a heating pad. While their morning greeting were heartwarming, my throat felt like sandpaper, and I destroyed the cozy scene with an “achoo!” twice. “A cold?” I pondered. A quick peek at a purple bar appearing in AccuWeather’s health section for South Lake Tahoe confirmed the true culprits: Extreme Dander and Dust. So, instead of braving allergy symptoms, I uncovered the secrets to a less sneezy-filled existence.

Yeah, dander and dust can affect people of all ages. Adds the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology, seniors and elderly with existing respiratory conditions like asthma or allergies, may feel more than less symptoms. Kids, too, can be susceptible due to their developing immune systems and smaller airways, points out American Academy of Pediatrics.

In a region with dry, cold air, such as Lake Tahoe, dander and dust can be worse because dry air can suspend these particles and irritate mucous membranes, triggering warning signs like a sore throat, sneezing, itchy eyes, and watery eyes.

Easy Checklist

Here, must-have tips from the AAAAI, and my first-hand experience from living in the mountains:

ü  Use a humidifier: A cool-mist humidifier can add moisture to the air, which helps to soothe irritated airways and prevent mucous membranes from drying out.

ü  Turn on an air purifier (or two): An air purifier with a HEPA filter can remove dander, dust, and other allergens from the air in bedrooms or living areas.

ü  Vacuum with a HEPA filter vacuum and dust. Capture dust and dander from surfaces.

ü  Wash bedding regularly: Wash sheets/comforters in hot water to kill dust mites and remove dander.

ü  Manage Pet Dander. Wipe pets with a damp cloth to reduce dander they shed.    

ü  Stay hydrated. Drinking plenty of water and tea can help keep your throat moist and thin mucus, easing a raspy throat.

ü  Medications: Over-the-counter or prescription antihistamines, nasal sprays, and eye drops can alleviate symptoms.

By using these pet smart tips, you can deal with dander and dust—and enjoy the cuddly fur kids--even during dry, cold Tahoe winter days.

CAL OREY, M.A., is a bestselling author-novelist specializing in topics such as adventure, health, nutrition, and science. She holds a bachelor’s degree and master’s degree in English (Creative Writing) from San Francisco State University. Her books include the popular Healing Powers series. The new, revised 2nd ed. of a popular Healing Powers book, 2026 is ready for pre-order, and The Healing Powers of Olive Oil, 3^rd ed. is in progress.   She is a South Lake Tahoe local. Her website is www.calorey.com

The Big Chill on Book Signings

 By Cal Orey

Over the decades I've been an author at dozens and dozens of book signings, up and down the West Coast, from Seattle to Los Angeles, Vegas and Canada! It's a gamble each time.

Some book events I've teamed with well-known people featured in my books.  We were greeted by TV cameras, radio station hosts, a microphone and rows of people in the audience. Yeah, it boosted the ego. Other signings? Guide dogs to adoption cats upstaged me, the author, and nobody wanted me to speak out or sign a book. Not one. Or one customer would talk to me and not leave like an unwanted fan. You just never know what's going to happen at a book signing--and the thing is, I continue to get booked and go on the road for the thrill of the unknown...

One Saint Patrick’s Day, for instance, I took a leap of faith and drove over the snow shrouded mountain (with my Australian shepherd in tow and survival food) to attend a book discussion/signing for number six, the Healing Powers series tea tome.  So much for lucky holidays and numbers, I thought. The roads were icy, cars were moving at a snail’s pace, and a couple of times I mumbled, “I’m turning back.”

After all, Stephen King made an appearance. "How can I follow an act like that?" Not a chance. Ironically, the bookstore manager called me two days before my book signing. Her news was that my box of more than 40 books sold out. I should have called it a signing...But no, I offered to make the trek and bring more tea books.

Knowing I was stocked up on granola bars, salt and vinegar potato chips, bottled water, and canine chow seemed a bit calming for a snow day raining on my parade. While there were a few close skidding out of control moments, no “Misery” car crash for this food book series author. 
On the way home, I wondered, “Why didn’t I bake chewy cookies and bring tea?”  A sobering flashback of hitchhiking in my twenties through
a blizzard in Wyoming with my black Lab (not a snow-loving dog) paid me a visit and reminded me, "This too shall pass." We survived--and this time around, too.

Worse, the manager served up iced tea and bits of cookies. It looked like a Jim Jones Kool-Aid event. I was embarrassed. Why not serve hot tea and petite scones? After an hour or less--I left and rescued my pooch. If my books sold on their own, they'll sell again, I thought.

Back in the cozy cabin I made a fire, brewed a fresh cup of hot chamomile (two cups, actually), and cuddled with my action-oriented Aussie and zen-like Siamese. After a day of adventure, cravings for fresh coconut macaroons were on my mind. 
After all, it’s still winter-like weather in the Sierra and a home-baked cookie (filling the house with a sweet aroma) paired with an over-sized cup of my favorite beverage is super comforting and takes me to a place I love. This recipe is inspired by my new tea book The Healing Powers of Tea (infused with soul, thanks to pro chef recipes and gritty, heartwarming stories, and tearooms I visited both in and out of the country during research in Tealand).

Snowflake Cookies

5 tablespoons whole wheat flour (good for high altitude so cookies don’t spread in the oven)

¼ cup granulated white sugar

6 ounces sweetened condensed milk

1 capful each almond extract and pure vanilla extract

7-8 ounces (approximately 2 ½ cups) sweetened coconut, premium

2 egg whites

1 teaspoon lemon or orange rind (optional)

Confectioners’ sugar (for dusting) (optional)

In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, salt, milk, extracts and coconut. Set aside. In a mixing bowl beat egg whites until stiff. Fold in coconut mixture. Add orange rind. Use 1/3 cup ice cream scoop or 1 teaspoon (shaped like a Hershey’s chocolate drop), and place cookie dough on a cookie sheet (parchment paper is nice to use to avoid sticking). Bake at 325 degrees for approximately 15-20 minutes or till bottoms are golden and cookies are firm. Remove immediately. Dust cookies with confectioners’ sugar. Makes about 10-12 cookies; depending on size.  Store in airtight container and put in fridge or freezer.

(Tip: I cut the recipe in half because these cookies do contain sugar and fat. If you love chocolate, melt white or dark chocolate chips in the microwave for about 30 seconds, stir, 30 more seconds till melted. Dip on one side of the cookie or on the bottom.)

While the drive in a post-snowstorm wasn’t as horrific as I had thought it could be, the chips were super stress reducers, but herbal tea and warm homemade cookies would have been more soothing. Next time around during a drive in the snow or rain, I’ll pack a thermos of tea and snowflake cookies.

--Cal Orey, M.A., is an author and journalist. Her books include the book series (Vinegar, Olive Oil, Chocolate, Honey, Coffee, Tea, Superfoods, Essential Oils, and Herbs & Spices) published by Kensington and available at fine bookstores everywhere. (The collection has been featured by One Spirit, Literary Guild, and the Good Cook book clubs.)  Her website is www.calorey.com Also, the Gift Book is offered by newsmax.com/tea