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Delivery of organic food on the rise

For those of you who live in buildings without elevators and have to lug your groceries up several flights of stairs, having your groceries delivered can be a wonderful opportunity. Delivery of organic food is on the rise and has prompted many websites to appear which offer such a service.

Perhaps you have a local organic market that makes deliveries. Or if you prefer, you can go online, order your groceries and relax until they are delivered. For senior citizens, this can be a welcome gift.

No more having to make several trips up and down stairs lugging bags of groceries. Whether it’s a local market or online service, everything is delivered to your door or apartment. Another benefit of having organic food delivered is that you do not have to tote the familiar wagon to and from the supermarket which, during the holidays, is most likely stuffed to the gills. No more worrying about hitting a rise in the pavement sending the wagon on its side, or worse - falling over it.

Researching the many organic food stores on line, you will find comprehensive lists of items they offer and also delivery schedules. All perishable items are packages to ensure the temperature remains the same.

In addition, most organic websites give you their telephone numbers and fax numbers in case you ever need to call. Orders are usually shipped within 48 hours, so you can ensure you are home when the delivery arrives.

Further, there are several websites where no membership is required. Thus, they are open to anyone who is interested in purchasing organic products that are of the highest quality. Another website cites that they have over 300,000 products which afford you the opportunity to choose among the finest organic brands that are environmentally friendly as well.

Today, with households where both parents work, there doesn’t seem enough time to do everything that is demanded of you. With taking care of the home and the kids, it’s nice to know that you can shop for organic food in the comfort of your home and have it delivered to your door.

Even non-organic grocery delivery is on the rise as well. It’s a great time-saver, allows for more quality time spent with loved ones and, quite frankly, you don’t have to push a wagon up and down aisles that are full of boxes and people.

Check out the many home delivery sites online that cater for organic products. This is especially beneficial for those of you who do not live near any local markets. It’s the best of both worlds.

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What’s the Big Deal About Organic Foods Anyway?

There is still a debate going on as to whether or not organic foods are better for you than conventional food products. So what’s the big deal about organic foods anyway? Well, here is a hint that non-organic foods might be a problem.

According to the National Research Council (NRC), “traces of pesticides left on traditionally grown products are unlikely to cause an increase in cancer. If fruits and vegetables are properly washed, most of the chemicals are likely to be removed.” This statement not only proves that non-organic foods can be hazardous to your health, but is contradictory to say the least. On the one hand, the NRC, who are proponents for non-organic foods are saying it’s okay to buy these foods, yet on the other hand they are admitting that pesticides are present and can pose a health risk. So who’s right?

It has long been confirmed that organic food does not contain high amounts of pesticides. Thus, organic food has become more popular today than ever before. Companies and organizations who promote healthy eating, as well as finding ways to protect the environment, may still be in the minority. However, they are gaining ground in light of the recent recall of certain vegetables and meats.

It also follows that families who are making a conscious effort to protect the environment are leaning towards an organic lifestyle. So the question still remains: What’s the big deal about organic foods? Quite frankly, it is only a big deal to those who oppose this alternative lifestyle.

Let’s take a look at some facts about organic foods:
* Consuming foods that are naturally grown is healthier and provides more nutrition.
* Foods organically grown are known to contain more vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
* There are no additives present.
* The process of organic farming eliminates any form of chemicals or hormones. Our environment is protected and our wildlife are given much better treatment than by conventional standards.
* Most importantly, the fertilization of soil promotes healthier crops.

Finally, those in the know tell us that organic foods taste better than the more traditional non-organic foods.

Consuming organic foods is an individual choice. But whether you grow your own organic garden, eat at restaurants which only serve organic foods, or purchase organic foods at your local farmer’s market, there is something to be said for the nutritional value contained in organic foods.

So what’s the big deal about organic foods anyway? Obviously, the big deal is most likely an economic one. Organic farming, or converting a conventional farm into an organic one, would take years before it can be certified as organic. In addition, while there are organic farms today, the supply has not yet met the demand. For now, however, those who prefer an organic lifestyle are living healthier, eating healthier, and are contributing to a more viable environment.

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Organic Products for Baby: Growing in Numbers

There are a considerable number of online websites that are offering organic products for baby. In order to ensure the products are organic and not natural (there is a difference), the products should have a label stating they are 100% organic. Today, organic products for baby are growing in numbers, with a fluctuation in variety and scope.

What makes organic products for babies so appealing? Well, for one thing, the ingredients used are rich in vitamins. The oils used are organically grown. More importantly, the ingredients are void of pesticides, mineral oils, and other synthetics which can irritate a baby’s skin.

For example, organic products for baby include tea tree oil, which is taken from the Melaleuca tree in Australia. The Aborigines have been using it from the beginning for medicinal purposes, but for baby it is a great way to cool and cleanse the skin. Another ingredient that we are all familiar with is chamomile. As a tea, it calms and soothes us after a stressful day at work. It works much the same way as a lotion or cream for a baby. Aloe is another ingredient used in most organic products for baby. We all know it has been widely recognized as an anti-inflammatory agent.

Some of the more popular organic products which are available for your baby include:
* Baby oil
* Diaper balm
* Shampoo
* Body wash
* Creams
* Soap

Speaking of soap, there is an organic soap available that is made from the petals of the calendula plant. Calendula is an antioxidant which protects the body against free radicals and is also known to have anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. It has been used to treat wounds as well. Also included in organic soap are organic ingredients such as sunflower oil, coconut oil, palm oil, chamomile, carrot oil, lavender oil, and vitamin E.

As mentioned at the outset, there is a vast difference between “natural” products and “organic” products. While natural products have no artificial ingredients, the only way you can ascertain if a product is organic is to ensure there is a label on the product that states it is 100% organic. Products that are 100% organic are certified. However, if a product states it is "simply organic", 5% of it is not. If a label states it is "made with organic ingredients", 30% of it is not.

Companies are required to list ingredients on labels. It has become a necessary part of ensuring that we are not buying products that have harmful ingredients. So the next time you plan a shopping trip for your family, be sure to check the labels or look for the USDA 100% organic label on food products as well. Organic products for baby are growing in numbers, and rightly so. We have become environmentally savvy on the benefits derived from organic clothing, skin care products, food, and other products as well.

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Is Organic Meat Worth the Added Expense?

Considering organic meat costs up to 100% more than non-organic meat, the question one has to ask is this: Is organic meat worth the added expense? For those who follow an organic lifestyle, the answer is unequivocally yes.

To understand why organic meat is so expensive, one has to look at the organic farm as a whole. To obtain organic status takes about a year or more. This entails several components on how animals are treated and fed. One of the mandated tenets regarding animals is that they must be free-roaming. This means they must have access to the outdoors as much as possible. More importantly, they must not be given antibiotics or animal by-products in their feed. In addition, the land must be totally organic, right down to the fence posts. Once all of the tenets are met, the farm is given organic status.

Moreover, how the meat is processed is also costly. The use of high pressure to process the meat not only rids the meat of any excess bacteria, but offers a longer shelf life as well. Therefore, there is no need for preservatives. The expense involved in running an organic farm is then passed down to the consumer, and thus, this is the reason why organic meat is so expensive.

Organic farms follow the strictest guidelines imposed by the USDA. This includes:

* Using certified organic feed.
* Absolutely no hormones are used in the production of the meat.
* There are no pesticides, herbicides, fungicides, preservatives, nitrates, or synthetic fertilizers used.
* Animals are treated humanely.
* Grain and hay is used to reduce E. coli bacteria.

Today, while organic meats are quite expensive, those who believe in healthy nutritional foods and meats are willing to pay the additional costs. In addition, staying away from processed meats such as hamburgers and hot dogs which, according to the Consumers Union “may contain bits of brain or spinal cord,” is a sure-fire way to avoid disease.

If you choose to purchase organic meat, check the package to ascertain if the label states it is organic. Or, you can check your local cooperative or farmer’s market to ensure they sell organic meats and indeed have been certified as having organic status.

As we all strive to eat more healthily, isn’t it worth the added expense to know that the meat you are consuming is free from the aforementioned chemicals? Certainly, with all the regulations that are being enforced in fast food restaurants and upscale restaurants, especially as regards trans fat, poultry, and meat, it is possible to avoid these processed foods altogether. Another way is to concentrate on serving more unprocessed fruits and vegetables as part of the family meal.

 

 

 


Organic Isn’t Just for Food

Upon researching organics and what is available other than food, it was not surprising to learn that there is clothing available made out of organic cotton. What was surprising was that 25% of pesticides and fertilizers are used in cotton farming.

According to the WHO (World Health Organization), over 20,000 deaths occur as a result of pesticide poisoning because of the chemicals that are used on farms. The good news is that organic cotton, for example, has none of these chemicals whatsoever.
It has been reported that the UK has a wide variety of organic cotton available, and many organizations have banned the use of chemicals. What types of cloth is made from organic cotton? The answer is clothes, specifically for infants, bed linens and towels. In fact, organic clothing is on the rise and is not only readily available, but affordable as well.

If you cannot find organic clothing in your area, you can certainly find websites that sell organic clothing and other items as well. For example, some sites offer clothes for men and women, and shoes. You can visit the Soil Association’s website for a listing or organic clothes and suppliers.

As we become more environmentally responsible, more and more households are turning “green”. That is to say, they are becoming completely organic. This would include food, clothes, and other products that are organically grown.

One of the more interesting developments, and quite frankly, a relief to find out, is that you can now purchase organic paint. If you’ve ever painted your home, the odor and the chemicals in the paint can be overwhelming, especially if there are children in the home or if someone is allergic to paint.

Organic paint is free from petrochemicals, fungicides, and preservatives. It is made from natural wood resins, plant oils, and earth pigments. Another important note is that by using organic paint, you can reduce the carbon and ensure that none of the chemicals are released.

Here’s another great reason to use organic paint. It can be added to your compost pile. While it is a bit more expensive than traditional paint, think of the benefits it derives. You can check online for more information on organic paints so that the next time you decide to redecorate your home, you have another choice.

As you can see, organic isn’t just for food. There are other important ways in which organics can be used to leave your home healthier, wear clothes that are safer, and keep your children free from toxins and allergens that can cause undue harm.

 

 

 

 

Why Organic Crib Mattresses are Safer for Baby

As parents, we all want what is best for our children. We prepare nutritional foods, ensure they get plenty of exercise, and promote general health in their daily lives. As newborns, we watch them constantly and cater to all their needs. However, there is one further area to discuss in depth, and that is crib mattresses. And why organic crib mattresses are safer for baby is an important issue which needs attention.

Scientists recently discovered that the chemicals in traditional crib mattresses may cause SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome). These chemicals include antimony, which is used as a flame-retardant. In addition, polyurethane foam, pesticides, cotton that is treated with boric acid, latex, and other harmful toxins are known to be used in traditional mattresses in general, and crib mattresses in particular.

The good news is that there are 100% organic crib mattresses for babies, and you can find them either online or by contacting the Organic Consumers Association to obtain a list of accredited 100% organic stores that sell crib mattresses and related products.

When and if you decide to purchase an organic crib mattress for your baby, ensure that the label states it is 100% organic. Here’s an example of a 100% organic crib mattress. It is made of 100% organic cotton, has no vinyl, lead, or antimicrobial biocides, no antimony, no pesticides, or any of the other harsh toxins you would find in traditional mattresses.

An important point should be made at this juncture. Read the fine print on websites that offer “organic mattresses”. Descriptions may include polyurethane foam, yet it claims to be 100% organic. It isn’t. Also check the description of the mattress to ensure it does not say phosphorus, antimony, latex, or arsenic.

Keep in mind that while you are paying a bit more to afford your baby the opportunity to sleep comfortably without incurring any breathing problems or inhaling chemicals that are by-products in the mattress, it is worth the time to investigate and determine that the crib mattress for your baby is indeed 100% organic.

Another reason why organic crib mattresses are beneficial to your baby is that they are made with organic cotton filling which allows for better air circulation, thus enabling your child to breathe better. There is no latex or wool in organic mattresses either, so the chance of allergens is non-existent. In case of fire, you can be assured that cotton does not burst into flames - as opposed to polyurethane foam, which does.

Needless to say, organic cotton crib mattresses are not only natural but provide a healthier environment for your baby. After all, your baby will spend a great deal of time in the crib, so having one that is safe and comfortable is of immeasurable benefit and, as is your baby, priceless.

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Create Your Own Compost Pile for an Organic Garden

Now is the perfect time to gather all the falling leaves in your yard and prepare to create your own compost pile for an organic garden. Not only is it easy to do, but you can have your entire family spend a day outdoors raking the leaves and having a great old time. Kids usually love to play with leaves, especially when the leaves are piled high enough for them to jump into.

More importantly, however, your own compost pile for your organic garden will be rich in nutrients for the soil, and it acts as a catalyst to fertilize your soil using organic materials.

What materials are required to create the compost pile? While there is no hard and fast rule, there are three ingredients to create a compost pile… and if you can remember “brown, green, and water,” according to the EPA, you are ready to begin.

Let’s look at the brown material first. It would consist of dead leaves, branches, and twigs, bathroom tissue, cardboard rolls, coffee grounds, hair and fur, nut shells, and wood chips, to name a few. The green material would consist of grass clippings, vegetable waste, fruit scraps, and coffee grounds. The water is essential to keep the compost from drying out.

Therefore, with the right combination of all three elements and an equal amount of brown and green material, you can easily layer the material in an alternating fashion.

According to the EPA, “the water will keep the pile moist and break down the organic material.” Also, the brown material is important because it emits carbon while the green material provides nitrogen. This perfect blend is necessary to produce compost that will enrich your soil when you prepare your organic garden for planting.

Where should you place the compost pile? Well, it is recommended that you choose a dry area in your yard that is near a water source, and in a shady area. After you and your family have raked the leaves and piled them to the spot you have chosen, you can then begin to add the other brown and green materials mentioned above. It is also recommended that you lightly water the materials as you add them to the pile. Finally, cover the compost so that you can keep all contents moist.

How do you know when the compost is ready for use? Look under the covered compost and reach under the bottom of the pile. If the material is dark in color, it is ready for use.

According to the EPA, compost usually takes anywhere from two months to two years to fully develop.

You now have the information to create your own compost pile for an organic garden. If you begin now, the compost will be more than ready for spring planting.

 

 

** Note that there are some things that you should not put into your compost pile. Here is a list of them, and the reason why they should be left out:


* Black walnut tree leaves or twigs
o Releases substances that might be harmful to plants
* Coal or charcoal ash
o Might contain substances harmful to plants
* Dairy products (e.g., butter, egg yolks, milk, sour cream, yogurt)
o Create odor problems and attract pests such as rodents and flies
* Diseased or insect-ridden plants
o Diseases or insects might survive and be transferred back to other plants
* Fats, grease, lard, or oils
o Create odor problems and attract pests such as rodents and flies
* Meat or fish bones and scraps
o Create odor problems and attract pests such as rodents and flies
* Pet wastes (e.g., dog or cat feces, soiled cat litter)
o Might contain parasites, bacteria, germs, pathogens, and viruses harmful to humans
* Yard trimmings treated with chemical pesticides
o Might kill beneficial composting organisms

 

 

 

 

Organic Dandruff Care

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Organics Goes Beyond the Food We Eat

Smart shoppers search out organic foods in order to provide their families with the absolute best possible food available. However, organics goes beyond the food we eat. Organic products can be found in nearly every sector of manufacturing, often in places we would never think to look.

What exactly constitutes a product earning the “organic” label? There is specific criterion that a product must meet to be labeled organic:

1. It must be grown from all-natural seeds. Genetic engineering or enhancement is not allowed.
2. Protecting crops from harmful insects must be accomplished organically. This means that the farmer must find a “good” bug to decimate the “bad” bugs that might infest their crop. This is often easier said than done.
3. Emphasis is placed on keeping the plants healthy. Healthy plants are more resistant to disease, so there should be no need for fungicides.
4. Chemical herbicides cannot be used around the crops. If there are weed in the field where the crops are grown, any weeding must be done by hand.
5. Pesticides are also forbidden around crops. If a farmer feels there will be a problem with pests, they are encouraged to use other means to combat the pests – poultry, beneficial insects, and traps to capture pests.

Now that we know what an organic farmer must provide in order to maintain that label, what other things are there besides food that would be considered organic or all-natural? Organics can be found in the following products:

• Baby items
• Bedding
• Clothing
• Cosmetics
• Cleaning supplies
• Furniture

 

 

BABY ITEMS

Many new parents are particular about the newest addition to their families, especially if it is their first child. They can go to the nearest discount store and purchase items, but they may want something more natural for their little one. If that is the case, there are numerous manufacturers that are producing baby and toddler items that meet this desire for things more natural.

Diapers: Everyone knows that one of the major items you will use with a new baby is diapers. You have several options: disposable diapers that cause landfill problems, cloth diapers that you can purchase at a local store or have delivered to your home, or organic cloth diapers. If you’re a natural parent, organic cloth diapers will most likely meet your needs.

The Organic Cotton Baby Love Fitted Diaper is a true one-size-fits-all reusable cloth diaper. The diaper fits babies from 8 pounds to 35 pounds. The fabric folds down in the back of the diaper in order for a newborn to wear it and it will adjust in size as the baby grows. It features Velcro closures that are pinless, ten layers of 100% organic cotton flannelette fabric for maximum absorbency. The inner panel is removable in order for the diapers to take less time drying, and you can purchase extra padding for overnight.

The 100% unbleached organic cotton fabric allows air to circulate better than fleece lined diapers and will help your baby avoid diaper rash problem. There are no synthetic fabrics to irritate your baby’s skin. They come in natural, light beige only.

You will probably be able to find other manufacturers of organic diapers if you search online. Prices on organic diapers vary greatly, depending upon the design and manufacturer of the diaper, but prices start around $4 per diaper and increase from that point.

Baby wipes: If you use diapers, you’ll need baby wipes eventually. You can purchase reusable, 100% organic cotton flannelette baby wipes, as well.

Teethers and toys: Organic teething toys can also be purchased. Green Lion Eco Toys has developed all-natural teethers and toys that do not have the harmful chemicals found in many plastic toys. These toys are perfect for those babies that need to chew but have concerned parents. Made from 100% organic cotton, these teethers and toys are washable and can be easily tied to a car seat or stroller so they won’t be easily lost.

Baby carriers: Quite often mothers that use organic products also prefer to wear their babies instead of carrying them. Luckily there are many baby carrying products made from organic materials. One such product is the Karma Baby organic Harmony pouch. This product is made from organic hemp. It is a light weight sling that features leg padding and has just the right amount of stretch in the fabric. A toy ring is also included on this natural sling. It comes in a variety of sizes to fit any mother, but men can use them as well. Prices range from around $85 to over $100 depending upon the type that you purchase. You may also purchase organic cotton slings beginning around $60 and up.

Clothing: It is quickly becoming more important for parents preferring natural fabrics to be able to find 100% organic clothing. Conducting an online search will provide you with nearly 4 million hits. If you can’t find what you’re looking for in that many options, the item probably hasn’t been made yet.

Baby bedding: If you’re going to put organic diapers and clothing on your child, of course you’ll want to use organic bedding, as well. There are numerous manufacturers of 100% organic bedding with everything from sheets to pillows to comforters. In fact, you can even find a natural crib mattress to give your child a better start.

Natural crib mattresses are becoming popular among parents of newborns. Not only are they free of toxic chemicals used for pest control as the fibers grow, they are free of the dyes and solutions used in manufacturing. While all-natural crib mattresses aren’t easy to find locally, you can purchase them online and have them shipped to your front door. Just make sure that if this is important to you, you purchase the mattress early.

 

 

BEDDING

Natural mattresses and bedding aren’t just for babies, however. In fact, if you search online you would probably be able to find something to fit your current bedroom suite. Perhaps you’ll find one of the new natural latex mattresses that have been so popular in Europe.

Mattresses: Major mattress manufacturers such as Sealy are beginning to make the new natural latex mattress. It provides a firm, but comfortable, night’s sleep. Sri Lanka, Malaysia, and Indonesia are the providers of the natural latex material that is used in the mattresses.

Hevea Brasiliensis is the tree grown on large plantations which provides the latex. Harvested by removing thin strips of bark from the trees, the latex substance flows down the stripped out areas and then into collection cups. The process is somewhat similar to tapping maple tree for sap.

It won’t be easy to find these natural mattresses yet, however. Most mattresses are currently made by combining natural and synthetic latex because the manufacturers feel it produces a more resilient core. Manufacturers of all-natural latex mattresses disagree with this assessment. They think the difference is in favor of the natural latex over the synthetic/natural mixed mattresses. In either case, the cost of these mattresses is considerably higher than a traditional mattress, so they are made to be durable.

Experts state that the 100% natural latex mattress will last much longer than the mixed latex mattress, some even believing they will be around nearly indefinitely. The firmness of the mattress is achieved by placing pincore holes in the latex. The larger the holes placed in this dense material, the more soft the mattress.

When searching for a natural latex mattress, begin your search online. Locally owned businesses will likely have mattresses made with the blended latex. Be sure to ask if the mattresses are 100% natural latex. The price will seem steep, but this mattress could stand the test of time so well that it can be handed down to your children. If it holds together that well, they will probably be glad to receive it.

Mattress pads: After you have a found a natural mattress, your next purchase will likely be a natural mattress pad. Organic wool mattress pads might be just what you’re looking for to help you have a good night’s sleep. If the natural latex mattress isn’t soft enough, consider the wool mattress pad. It gives an added layer of softness because the wool is tufted, quilted, and then sewn into an organic cotton duvet-type cover.

The benefits of an organic wool mattress pad are varied. They include, but are not limited to:
1. Wicking away moisture from the body which enables you to sleep more comfortably. The moisture is then released into the air in your room after you get up and throughout the day.
2. Acting as a natural climate control. If you need heat, the wool traps hot air which will help you remain warm. In the summer, it traps cool air to help your body stay cool.
3. Providing a safer sleep environment. Wool is naturally resistant to mold, dust mites, and mildew. You will, however, need to keep it covered to protect it from moths.

Besides being all-natural, organic wool mattress pads are environmentally smart. Wool is biodegradable and is one of the few fibers that cannot be synthetically reproduced. Wool is a renewable source, as sheep produce an abundance of hair over their life times, and can even be recycled and reused.

You might be able to find organic wool mattress pads locally at your better bedding stores; however you may need to search online. Expect to pay around the same amount as you would for any other mattress pad, but you can expect the benefits to far outweigh any other mattress pad you might find. The choice between the two will be easy to make.

Sheet sets: You have the right foundation, an all-natural latex mattress. You have it covered with an organic wool mattress pad. Now all you need are some luxurious organic cotton sheets to slip into before drifting peacefully off to sleep.

Finding 100% organic cotton sheets might be as hard as finding the proverbial “hen’s tooth.” Most bedding stores will stock 100% cotton sheets, but the chances of finding the organic sheets locally are slim. Your best bet would be to check online for the best sources of organic sheets and bedding.

100% organic cotton sheets require special care. They will need to be washed once you receive them, and if you hope to get them onto your bed, you will likely have to iron them. The difference in the feel will make you a believer, however, and you won’t mind the extra hassle.

The cotton used to make the organic sheets have had no chemicals involved in the growing or manufacturing process. They are entirely chemical free. You may find that you are breathing better with the organic sheets than you do with the 50/50 blend, or the 100% cotton sheets, you are currently using.

 

 

CLOTHING

Organic clothing today is much different from the organic clothing that made an appearance during the 1990s. Then most of the clothing was created from hemp. Today, organic clothing can be made from a variety of fibers and can be made into almost any piece of clothing and for every member of your family.

Most people think of organic clothing for babies, particularly in regard to diapers. They help keep babies free from diaper rash, help them breath easier, and don’t irritate their delicate skin. There are organic clothes for babies, toddlers, children, and adults. You may even be able to find something organic for the four-footed “children” if you look in the right places.

Cotton is currently one of the most chemically treated crops on in the US. The pesticides used on cotton make it hard to find 100% organic cotton, but it can be done. You can also make organic clothing from hemp that is comfortable and very nice to look at. The prices aren’t totally outrageous when compared to some non-organic clothing. However, you may have a little bit of trouble finding organic cotton and hemp clothing locally. Your best bet will be to look online to find what you’re looking for.

Why would anyone care about what their clothing is made from? There are many reasons to be concerned. First, as mentioned above, cotton is sprayed heavily with pesticides both during the time it grows and when it is about to be harvested. These chemicals can cause skin irritations at the very least, and may possibly be responsible for some of the health issues Americans now face.

Synthetic fabrics are made from petroleum products, which are just as bad if not worse than the pesticides. Yes, it’s true that synthetic fabrics are cheaper to manufacture than are organic crops for clothing, but why would anyone want to take a chance with their health or the health of their loved ones? And if the pesticides aren’t bad enough, all cotton goes through a bleaching process prior to being dyed and manufactured.

Organically grown cotton can be used to make a multitude of fabrics – jeans, t-shirts, underwear, bath towels, and robes. Organically grown hemp can be used in most clothing manufacturing processes, and silk has been organically grown for centuries. Surely if there was more of a demand for organically grown and manufactured clothing, they would be easier to find locally.

 

 

COSMETICS AND SKIN CARE

Cosmetics have been around for centuries. They were used in ancient Egypt, during Medieval and Renaissance times, and are used extensively today. For many years, cosmetics were made from animal products such as whale fat and natural products such as berries and milk. However, as time passed, more and more products were made from unnatural sources. It’s about time that the cosmetics industry has begun to create cosmetics and skin care products that are organic and safe for the public to use.
Your skin is the largest organ of your body. It acts as a two-way membrane allowing toxins to pass from the body in perspiration, but also allows toxins to enter the body the same way. It is for this reason that there should be more regulations on organic cosmetics.

It is not uncommon for cosmetics to bear the “organic” label, but the label doesn’t always mean what it says. In fact, beauty products are not regulated but they definitely should be held to the same standards as organic foods. With the push for other organic products, however, the cosmetic industry may have to change, adapt, and begin to meet tougher standards in order to earn the “organic” moniker.

Organic cosmetics are using pure and natural minerals. They can also be made with nourishing seeds, nuts, and fruit oils. Jojoba oil, shea butter, beeswax, and safflower oils can also be added to create organic cosmetics. Synthetic ingredients won’t find a place in organic cosmetics or beauty products. They may be a little more expensive than conventional cosmetics; however, your skin will thank you for purchasing them.

It may take a while for the large cosmetic companies to begin making organic cosmetics and for the prices to come down. In the mean time, you can find this type of make up online or offered on television.

Organic skin care products are also becoming more popular. Cleanser ingredients may include orange peel oil, calendula, geranium, chamomile, witch hazel, and burdock. Exfoliants are made with organic lemon and orange. Jojoba and lavender may also be used.

 

 

CLEANING SUPPLIES

There are many cleaning supplies that can be found on store shelves. However, most of them have chemicals or hazardous materials in them. If you would rather not clean your home with all these cleaners, you have the organic cleaners you need right in your home already.

Vinegar and baking soda can be used to make homemade cleaners that are just as good as the chemically-laden cleaners you buy at the store. In fact, they’re really better. Not only do they clean as well, they are much better for your home.

Use vinegar to remove unpleasant odors rather than using commercially available products. You can place a couple of cups of vinegar on a pot. The vinegar absorbs odors, in fact if you add a few drops of vinegar to cabbage while it’s cooking to remove any odors.

Vinegar can also be used as a disinfectant. Reports indicate that a five percent solution of vinegar kills 99 percent of bacteria. Mold and germs are also susceptible to the strength of vinegar. Since vinegar is a food item, the makers can’t claim that it is also good for disinfecting.
Baking soda can be mixed with vinegar to unclog drains much better than anything currently on the market. Pour a cup of baking soda into the drain. Follow the baking soda with a cup of vinegar, then run hot water down the sink for several minutes. Not only will your drain be unclogged but you will have kept chemicals from your home and kept the chemicals from getting into the water system as well.

Add a few tablespoons of vinegar to soapy dishwater to help cut the grease from pots and pans. Put a cup of vinegar into an empty dishwasher to clean it once a month. If your microwave is covered in food splatters, put a microwave-safe bowl filled with two cups of water and half a cup of vinegar and then place into the microwave. Set the microwave on full power and run it for several minutes. Leave the microwave closed for several minutes and then carefully remove the bowl. When you wipe the microwave out the food will come out much easier than if you use chemicals.

Commercial cleaners for no-wax floors are filled with ingredients that are not safe for your family, or the environment. Mixing one gallon of water with ½ cup vinegar will clean and shine your floors. If you have stuck on messes, add a couple of tablespoons of baking soda with vinegar to create a scouring powder.

Baking soda has many uses, as well. Clean silver with a homemade paste of 3 parts baking soda and one part water. Rub the paste onto each piece of silver and then rinse. Buff with a soft, dry cloth.

Have you burned food in the bottom of a pot? Sprinkle baking soda into the bottom of the pot and then add hot water to cover the area that is burned. Leave the mixture in the pot overnight. In the morning the mess will come out much easier.

Remove odors from carpets without adding chemicals to your home. Sprinkling baking soda onto the carpet and leave it for at least fifteen minutes. Vacuum the baking soda and repeat if necessary.

Clean children’s toys with ¼ cup baking soda and 1 quart warm water. Although Clorox and Lysol both claim to kill germs, this mixture is healthier for your children and the rest of the family to be around. Rinse the toys with clear water and then allow them to air dry.

Organic items are becoming more and more popular. Organic items go beyond food. Soon you’ll be able to find them on every aisle of the local discount store. Until that time, however, you may have to do some searching to find exactly what you’re looking for. From baby items to bedding, cosmetics to cleaning supplies, if you ask for more organic products manufacturers will have to supply what consumers desire.

 

 

 

     

Five Fertilizing Options for Organic Gardens

Most people have different ideas on how to fertilize their organic gardens. While some depend on compost, others visit their local gardening stores to purchase ready-to-use fertilizer. To this end, here are an additional five fertilizing options for organic gardens which you may consider as well.

Due to the fact that nitrogen, potassium, and phosphorus are the three main ingredients needed for organic garden fertilization, home-made compost may not be enough to do the job.

If you want to ensure that you are giving your organic garden enough of what it needs to be able to plant a healthy and quantitative crop, here are some fertilizers which can assist you in this endeavor:

1. One fertilizer that has all of the nutrients needed for your organic garden is alfalfa meal. Its components contribute to plant growth.

2. Much has been made of a fertilizer called blood meal. A source of nitrogen, it has a ratio of 12-2-1.

3. Bone meal is also being recommended by garden experts. Since it is a great source of phosphorus and calcium, it's a good one to add to your list.

4. High in potassium, kelp meal is recommended as well. Using it in combination with bone meal is ideal, since kelp meal does not contain enough phosphorus.

5. Another nutrient which is high in potassium and nitrogen is comfrey. This is especially useful if you plan to grow organic tomatoes and fruit.

In addition, you can also compost certain nutrients which can further enhance the fertilization of your garden. The first nutrient is called nettles, which is a food which insects ingest and which can also be composted into an organic liquid. The second alternative is to use compost worms with any waste products from your kitchen. This will also provide nutrition for the soil. The third is the process of composting tea. If you find that your soil is not at its best, this process will add the nutrients that are lacking in your organic garden.

Well, there you have it. These are the five fertilizing options for organic gardens you can utilize when you begin planting in the spring. For now, it may be prudent to take all the leaves in the back yard and prepare a compost pile. Since the compost pile is a rich source of carbon, nitrogen, and water, there is no doubt you will be sufficiently prepared to plan what to plant in your organic garden.

 

 

 


     

Is Your Local Farmer’s Market Really Selling Organic Food?

There was a recent story written about a farmer’s market whose products were taken from supermarket shelves and sold to the public. Sound incredulous? Perhaps, but given the likelihood this story is true, many people would pose this question: Is your local farmer’s market really selling organic food?

The only way to determine if your farmer’s market is selling organic food is to look for the USDA Organic Seal. Of course, those of you who have been consuming organic foods for some time have already developed a relationship with your local farmer’s market, and already know who has organic status and who does not.

There is a noticeable contradiction when it comes to organics. While the USDA has strict guidelines for farmers who wish to obtain organic status, the USDA also seems to ignore its tenets as it relates to larger corporations. Because the supply is not meeting the demand, there is a battle between companies who are increasing their production of processed foods versus the organic farmers who are working very hard to gain organic status (which, by the way, can take a year or more).

For those farmer’s markets who only sell organic products, the good news for them is they are now listed on the Organic Consumers Association website. This means that anyone who wants to be absolutely sure their local farmer’s market has organic status can easily make that determination.

Throughout the world, government regulations are kept in force to ensure that farmer’s markets are not only organic certified, but adhere to the stringent rules and regulations governing their status. For example, the NASAA monitors Australian organic farms; the JAS equally does so in Japan; and here in the US, the Organic Food Production Act requires the USDA to develop standards for organic products nationally.

Therefore, it is clear that the consumer is the best judge as to whether or not their local farmer’s market has organic status and meets the standards set forth by their respective government’s regulations.

Farmers are hard workers. The process of gaining organic status is a daunting challenge, and one that is not taken lightly. To suggest that farmer’s markets in general are somehow duping the public is ludicrous. There may be a few unscrupulous people trying to get away with this kind of action, but one can be assured they will not be in business for long.

Those who have chosen organics as a lifestyle are far more savvy when it comes to spotting imposters: both seller and product. For those that are new to organic living, as mentioned earlier there are plenty of websites that can help you discern where to purchase organic foods, locate certified organic farmer’s markets, and even shop online as well.

 

 

 


     

Cotton Clothing for the Organic Baby

Becoming environmentally conscious encompasses many aspects in ensuring that we do as much as we can to keep our world safe and ecologically sound, especially for our children. To this end, it is absolutely wonderful to see websites that offer cotton clothing for the organic baby.

The motto “Think Green” is becoming more popular than ever, and proponents of living organic lifestyles are fast becoming the focus of attention for those who have not yet hopped on board.

Perusing several websites, here are some of the items in organic cotton you can find for your baby:

* Cotton wash mitt
* Burp Pad
* Blanket
* Shirts
* Booties
* Bottoms
* Caps
* Diapers
* Fitted and flat sheets
* Layette sets
* One-piece snap body suits
* Kimonos
* Undershirts
* Baby gowns
* Baby rompers
* Baby towels

Imagine how comfortably your baby will sleep at night and feel during the day wearing comfortable non-chemical, organic baby wear!

There are also websites whose designs are quite gorgeous for your baby. They not only use cotton that is hand-picked and ring spun from organic cotton farms, but also use low-impact chemical dyes which contain no metals so that your baby's clothes are free from allergens.

According to statistics from the Organic Trade Association, “more than 14 million pounds of organic cotton has been grown in over 12 countries. Yet this only represents about 0.03% of cotton worldwide.” In addition, more and more companies are expanding their use of domestic and international organic cotton. This is good news for the consumer who is seeking viable ways to obtain organic cotton clothing.

The OTA had more good news. “Sales of organic women’s clothing grew by 33.6% during 2003, and diaper sales grew 20.5%. Men’s clothing grew by 11%, and children's and teens’ clothing grew 15%. It is estimated that organic cotton will continue to rise a whopping 15% per year.

When purchasing organic clothing for your baby, it's a good idea to only purchase those items that are clearly labeled 100% organic. There seems to be a disconnect between organic and natural products. There is a vast difference between the two. Whereas clothing made from natural resources indicates the product is not made from artificial means, organic clothing that is labeled 100% organic has been duly certified as such.

Consumer interest in cotton organic clothing has spawned the use of organic cotton fibers in make-up removal pads, ear swabs, sanitary products, towels, bathrobes, toys, stationery and note cards. Moreover, according to the OTA, “organic cottonseed is used to feed animals, and organic cottonseed oil is used in food products.” It seems that cotton clothing for baby is not the only thing on the rise!

 

 

 

     

Health Benefits of Organically Grown Tea

Within the world of tea, evidence has clearly shown that there are immeasurable health benefits of organically grown teas. We will discuss two such teas: black tea and green tea.

To understand why organically grown tea is so popular today: the very method of growing and processing black and green teas helps to protect, rather than deplete, our natural resources. Organic foods are grown on land that has been free from the use of synthetic fertilizers, growth regulators, insecticides or herbicides for at least three years. Instead of harmful chemicals, farmers use methods such as composting, crop rotation, and interplanting to control weeds and pests, replenish the soil, and sustain the health of our planet.

Pollution-free and natural, organic black tea is a hygienic tea leaf which is processed without the use of man-made chemicals, synthetic fertilizers, pesticides, plant growth regulators, and chemical food additives in the course of production. Prepared with high quality tea from an ecological tea plantation on mountains in South-West China, black tea is famous for its clear, red, brilliant color, strong aroma, and mellow taste.

The benefits of organic black tea includes: possible prevention of some cancers, decrease in the risk of cardiovascular problems, and reduction in the risk of heart attacks and strokes. And organic black tea has less than half amount of caffeine that exists in coffee.

Black tea is fermented, which gives it a dark color and a full-bodied hearty flavor. This tea comes from the same Camellia sinensis plant as green tea, but the only difference is in the fermentation of the black tea. What distinguishes organic black tea from regular black tea is that it is free of pesticides and grown in an environmentally natural zone.

In addition to organic black tea, there are a wide variety of organic teas grown under the conditions described above, such as green tea. Green tea has become more popular today than ever before. It is the tea of choice as one of several in promoting herbal tea remedies. Well known for its antioxidant properties, it also has anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties. A study showed that people who drank a bottle of tea fortified with green tea extract every day for three months lost more body fat than those who drank a bottle of regular oolong tea.

The antioxidants in green tea have been shown to have a direct effect on lowering cholesterol levels as well.  Green tea also causes carbohydrates to be released slowly, preventing sharp increases in blood insulin levels. Many scientists believe there is a connection between all of the components of green tea, and these combined properties account for its health-enhancing properties. Unfermented green tea leaves are the most natural way to gain these benefits.  

You may also be happy to learn that green tea can even help prevent tooth decay. Just as its bacteria-destroying abilities can help prevent food poisoning, it can also kill the bacteria which causes dental plaque.

Those of you who have been drinking green tea for some time have obviously been afforded the benefits derived by this organically grown tea. Yes, there are health benefits of organically grown tea, and its popularity will continue to rise as we learn more about its medicinal benefits.