Planning a vacation and wondering how to keep your family well-fed and happy? Addressing dietary needs and preferences can be challenging on the road, but I've found a fantastic solution that ensures everyone enjoys delicious, home-cooked meals without the added stress. By bringing along a slow cooker or Instant Pot and following my simplified meal plans, your family can indulge in wholesome, budget-friendly dinners like melt-in-your-mouth shredded Pork Verde or fragrant Ropa Vieja no matter where your travels take you.
To make things easier, I've designed recipes that use whole ingredients without any waste, such as a full bag of frozen vegetables or a can of tomatoes. This strategy minimizes leftover groceries, saves time, and maximizes convenience. Whether ordering groceries for pickup at your destination or packing easy-to-carry seasoning packs, the planning and preparation are straightforward, allowing you more time to relax and enjoy your trip.
Not only are these meals tailored to accommodate various dietary needs like paleo, gluten-free, and dairy-free restrictions, but they are also kid-approved and easily customizable to suit your family's preferences. With my free printable meal plan and grocery list, you can embark on your travels with confidence, knowing that healthy, tasty dinners are just a cooker away. For a seamless vacation dining experience that saves both time and money, download my meal planner today and start cooking up wonderful memories!
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Tackling seasonal allergies naturally doesn't need to be complicated. Here's a quick guide to snatch back your comfort without reaching for the usual meds.
First, let’s talk about playing defense. Keeping those pesky allergens at bay is key. Pop a HEPA filter in your living space—it’s your new best friend for trapping pollen, dust, and fur, making your home a sneeze-free zone.
Now, onto the offense with natural antihistamines. Did you know vitamin C and lavender essential oil are champions in calming those allergy symptoms? And here’s a little golden nugget for you - the “Seasonal Bomb” blend. Mixing lavender, peppermint, and lemon vitality essential oils into a daily capsule can work wonders for easing that itchy, sneezy discomfort. These natural goodies are great alternatives to store-bought options.
Lastly, don’t let inflammation get the last word. Natural supplements like NAC and MSM, alongside our trusty antioxidants, are fantastic for fighting off those inflammatory responses that allergies love to bring.
By reducing allergen exposure, using natural antihistamines, and tackling inflammation with a few natural strategies, you can create a healthy shield against allergies. Let’s embrace these steps together and enjoy a more sniffle-free life!
In the quest for natural health remedies, we often stumble upon unconventional yet highly effective tools and techniques. One such tool that has gained recognition in recent times is the nebulizer. This unassuming device has been making waves in the world of natural health for its ability to deliver respiratory relief through the nebulization of substances like Vitamin C and Colloidal Silver. In this post I'll very briefly explore the benefits of owning a nebulizer and how it can be a game-changer for your well-being, plus share my must-have natural recipes with you.
Keep reading to download all of my nebulizer recipes for free.
Nebulizers
Before we dive into the specific benefits of using a nebulizer for natural health purposes, let's understand what a nebulizer is and how it works. Essentially, a nebulizer is a medical device that converts liquid into a fine mist or aerosol. This mist can be inhaled into the lungs, making it an effective means of delivering medication or other substances directly to the respiratory system. Those who have an asthmatic in their home might be very familiar with this device; others may never have really heard of it. Regardless, it is very simple to use, has virtually no learning curve and is easy to access (for now).
Vitamin C Nebulization
Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid in it's simplest form, is celebrated for its immune-boosting properties. Research has shown that high-dose Vitamin C is beneficial in fighting off infections, including respiratory illnesses. It's also been studied for it's ability to help the body detox, and reduce pregnancy loss. One of the primary advantages of using a nebulizer to administer Vitamin C is that it allows for direct delivery to the lungs, where it can be most effective, fast.
While taking supplements orally and topically is very effective, sometimes you need help right at the source. In these cases, it's important to get support where it's needed most and quickly. This can be the difference between hospital or no hospital, in some cases. Not only is it getting into your lungs but also, if using a mask, which I always recommend, your sinuses, throat, and mouth as well.
It's a lifesaver (perhaps quite literally in some cases) for babies and children as well, where getting oral supplementation and compliance to get-better techniques (like blowing your nose) can be difficult.
According to information from East Valley Naturopathic Doctors, and many others, nebulized Vitamin C has been explored as a potential treatment for viral infections, including "c." By bypassing the digestive system and delivering Vitamin C directly to the lungs, nebulization may enable higher doses to be used without the digestive discomfort that can occur with oral use.
Our family has been making the "Bass Family Cocktail," which includes Vitamin C as a main ingredient, for our nebulizer for many years with wonderful success.
Colloidal Silver Nebulization
Colloidal Silver, a suspension of silver particles in a liquid, has a long history of use as an antimicrobial agent. While its effectiveness and safety are subjects of ongoing research, some natural health enthusiasts have turned to colloidal silver for its potential benefits in fighting infections.
As outlined in an article from Deep Roots at Home, nebulizing colloidal silver may be an option for those seeking natural ways to address respiratory issues. When inhaled, the fine mist of colloidal silver can come into direct contact with the respiratory tract, potentially assisting in the management of respiratory infections. It's one of the simplest and most gentle options to use, and is readily available.
Because of this, multiple ways to use it are included in the Immune Support Bundle, inside the Advanced Sick Day Guide. If you don't want to wait for the bundle, you can get a crash course in Colloidal Silver by downloading my brief book, The Precious Metal That Heals You right now for free.
Hydrogen Peroxide Nebulization
Another intriguing option in the world of nebulization is the use of hydrogen peroxide. While it might seem counterintuitive to inhale something typically associated with wound cleaning, hydrogen peroxide nebulization has garnered attention for its shocking health benefits.
As discussed on Dr. Jockers' website, hydrogen peroxide has been explored for its antiviral and antibacterial properties when used in very dilute concentrations for nebulization. Proponents suggest that inhaling this mist may help clear the respiratory passages, reduce inflammation, and support overall respiratory health. However, it's crucial to use hydrogen peroxide at the proper dilutions. I recommend using only food grade, as originally recommended by Dr. Brownstein at a dilution of 0.1%.
Want to skip the math? Because of my research and experience using this method for over 3 years in multiple people, I've included my tried-and-true simple recipe inside of the Immune Support Bundle, along with more ways to use this almost magical natural substance.
A Peek At The Science
To delve deeper into the science behind these nebulization techniques, let's look at some reputable sources. Vitamin C, as explained by the Linus Pauling Institute, plays a crucial role in immune function. Nebulizing it could enhance its effectiveness by delivering it directly to where it's needed most.
As for colloidal silver, research like the study published in ScienceDirect suggests its potential antimicrobial properties. However, it's important to note that more research is needed to fully understand its safety and efficacy.
The benefits of hydrogen peroxide nebulization have been discussed by proponents like Dr. Charles Farr, a prominent figure in bio-oxidative therapy. Dr. Farr's work, including his presentation on "Bio Oxidative Therapy with a Nebulizer Hydrogen Peroxide" available on YouTube, has shed light on the role of hydrogen peroxide in combating infections and promoting respiratory health. There's also a multi-page compilation of recipes and science related to Hydrogen Peroxide included in the Bonus section of the Immune Support Bundle."
A Few More Thoughts + My Recipes
Incorporating a nebulizer into your natural health toolkit can be a wise decision! It might even be vital in the current and coming times. I lovingly recommend all families have on in their home, on hand and ready to go when they need it.
It allows for targeted delivery of substances like Vitamin C , colloidal silver, hydrogen peroxide and more, offering necessary respiratory relief and powerful immune support that can't be matched by any other treatment method.
It's my hope that at this point in the article you have enough information to decide if you'd like to go forward in getting one yourself (and I'm not shy to say I hope it's a yes, as you have probably guessed)!
My heart's desire is to see you be the health hero of your home, and empower you to make the choices that keep you and your family well. So, to meet you right now, with the how-to you need and want, I've created the Immune Support Bundle.
It was designed entirely based on the needs I've seen over the years (especially the last few) and includes all of my most powerful recipes and tricks for getting and staying well.
There's no such thing as an exhaustive teaching on this subject. That said, this is the know-how you need to act fast. It's got some background and explanation for those who like that, but most importantly it's got the "what and how" spelled out and ready in lovely printable forms, complete with videos of me going more in depth for those who want it.
In the meantime, I want to give you my family recipes as a gift. Literally free.
I pray you have found some valuable information here in this article, and that it impowers you to move forward in your health!
If you want to go in-depth and have even more strategies, check out the Immune Support Vault.
Fall is the perfect time to indulge in delicious pumpkin treats, and we have the perfect recipe for you! Our Pumpkin Cranberry Oatmeal Cookies are not only gluten and dairy-free, but they are also packed with health benefits. Pumpkin is loaded with vitamins A and C, which support a healthy immune system and promote clear, glowing skin. These cookies also feature sprouted oats, which offer even more nutritional value. Don't worry if you don't have sprouted oats on hand, regular rolled oats will work just fine. Get ready to enjoy the perfect blend of pumpkin and cranberry flavors in these chewy and nutritious cookies all year round.
Swap the cinnamon in the recipe for 1 drop of Cinnamon Vitality oil from Young Living for an extra kick. You can also add other essential oils like Nutmeg, Cardamom, or Clove to elevate the flavors. And if you loved this recipe, be sure to check out our blog for more fall-inspired treats like our Magnesium-packed Pumpkin Muffins, perfect for supporting your immune system and managing stress in the most delicious way.
Did you know that our bodies have an amazing ability to detoxify themselves from environmental pollution? It's true!
Every day, we're exposed to a range of toxins in our environment, including air pollution, pesticides, and heavy metals.
Lately, there has been much in the news about our exposures to these things increasing through natural disasters and sourcing issues.
But thanks to our liver, kidneys, and other organs, our bodies are able to filter out and eliminate these toxins, keeping us healthy and safe.
It's reassuring to know our bodies are equipped to handle the challenges we face in today's world, so keep reading to learn how to support it in doing so.
Of course, it's important to do our part to minimize our exposure to environmental pollutants as much as possible.
Our bodies have several organs, including the liver, kidneys, and skin, that work together to filter out and eliminate toxins from our environment.
However, these organs can become overburdened with the amount of toxins we're exposed to on a daily basis.
That's where herbs, essential oils, plants, vitamins, and minerals can come in to support the detoxification process.
I'm going outline several ways to support your detoxification system naturally, and share how I'm doing it with my own family!
I'll even share some food medicine recipes you can make and enjoy anytime.
First off, are Goji berries, also known as wolfberries, which have been shown to have potential benefits for liver health.
They are a rich source of antioxidants, including carotenoids and flavonoids, which have been shown to protect liver cells from oxidative stress and damage.
Additionally, goji berries have been found to have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation in the liver and improve liver function.
Some studies have suggested that goji berries may be particularly beneficial for people with liver disease, including those with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Incorporating goji berries into a healthy diet may be a simple and natural way to support liver health, especially when you choose a delicious way to include them.
Recently, a family member had a small surgery. While in the surgery, her doctor noted the health of her liver. He said, and I quote, "You have the cleanest liver I've ever seen!"
He had been practicing for decades, and went on to say that everyone in the operating room was "jealous" of her healthy liver.
She credits this celebration to taking her wolfberry daily via Ningxia Red.
In fact, I take them at least two ways daily: Once in a combo capsule with MSM (keep reading for more info on that) and once in a multi-mineral antioxidant drink. My husband and children take them, too.
Since we are speaking on berries, let's chat about some more grocery store medicine foods that you can grab to support your liver and overall detoxification system.
Add these foods to meals you already love, or create recipes around them. Keep reading for a fabulous Liver Detox Drink and Detox Salad Recipe later in this post, too!
- Leafy Greens - Leafy greens like kale, spinach, and arugula are rich in chlorophyll, which has been shown to aid in detoxification by binding to toxins and carrying them out of the body. (Source: Healthline)
- Garlic - Garlic contains sulfur compounds that can help the liver activate enzymes responsible for flushing out toxins. (Source: Medical News Today)
- Beets - Beets are high in antioxidants and can help the liver remove toxins from the body. (Source: Healthline)
- Citrus Fruits - Citrus fruits like lemons, limes, and grapefruits are high in vitamin C, which can help the liver produce detoxifying enzymes. (Source: Healthline)
- Turmeric - Turmeric contains a compound called curcumin, which has been shown to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects that can help protect the liver from damage. (Source: Healthline)
- Cruciferous Vegetables - Cruciferous vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, and cabbage contain compounds that can help the liver produce enzymes that detoxify carcinogens. (Source: Medical News Today)
- Green Tea - Green tea contains catechins, which are antioxidants that can help protect the liver from damage and aid in detoxification. (Source: Healthline)
- Artichokes - Artichokes are high in antioxidants and can help the liver produce bile, which carries toxins out of the body. (Source: Healthline)
- Ginger - Ginger contains compounds called gingerols and shogaols, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects that can help protect the liver from damage. (Source: Medical News Today)
- Blueberries - Blueberries are a rich source of antioxidants, including anthocyanins, which have been shown to support the body's natural detoxification processes. (Source: Medical News Today)
Number one on the list above is a winner partly because of it's MSM content.
One of my favorite supplements for overall health is MSM!
Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) has been found to have several potential benefits for liver health.
One of the main ways that MSM may benefit the liver is through its ability to reduce inflammation in the body.
Studies have shown that MSM can help reduce inflammation in the liver and improve markers of liver function in people with these conditions.
Additionally, MSM has been shown to have antioxidant properties, which can help protect liver cells from damage and promote overall liver health!
We personally have had reduced and even removed pain and better skin hair and nails since taking a supplement with BOTH MSM and wolfberries (see above) daily.
In terms of vitamins and minerals, antioxidants like vitamins C and E, as well as minerals like zinc and selenium, can help protect the body from the damaging effects of toxins.
Interestingly, certain plants can come high in trace minerals, depending where they are grown. This is certainly true for plants grown in the Ningxia region of China, deep in the Yellow River Flood Plains that are saturated with clean, fresh run-off from the Himalayan Mountains (think Himalayan salt...full of minerals!).
The flood plains are called "Yellow River" because of the golden saturation of minerals the water coming off the mountains carries.
Plants grown here are rich in minerals, and the Ningxia Red wolfberries used in the two supplements we take for liver and detoxification support are grown there!
It's also helpful to note that some herbs, like Peppermint, can aid both in digestion, liver health, and absorption of these minerals, so your body can get and use them.
That's why I often take and give trace minerals that are spiked with peppermint and other aids daily to support our detoxification systems and moods.
And don't forget about the power of hydration - drinking plenty of water can help flush toxins out of the body and gives the proper hydration to lymph fluids.
Adding edible cold-pressed oil of Lemon is widely accepted as a supportive detoxification practice that aids in digestion and alkalizing the body, while providing Liver support and great taste to encourage us to keep drinking!
Chamomile and Blue Tansy essential oils are also believed to aid in liver system function, and using them topically can be a simple way to get the benefits of them circulating in your body.
In fact, the compound that makes Blue Tansy blue is chamazulene, which has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
These properties can help protect liver cells from damage and reduce inflammation in the liver.
Blue tansy has also been found to have hepatoprotective effects, which means it can help protect the liver from toxins and other harmful substances.
Additionally, blue tansy has been shown to have choleretic effects, meaning it can stimulate the production and flow of bile, which helps the liver remove waste and toxins from the body.
We keep an essential oil blend for liver support in the bathroom by our toothbrushes, and we apply it to our skin, directly over the liver, morning and night.
When I forget to use the blend, the first place I notice is in my skin! Beginning using it brought me so much skin healing that I wasn't even expecting. It was a welcome surprise!
Using essential oils topically could not be any easier, smells lovely, and is a great way to help children with their health!
Sometimes, unless the supplement is yummy like our favorite wolfberryantioxidant drink, getting children and babies to take things can be challenging...but essential oils are often applied topically like the JuvaFlex I mentioned above, so that doesn't even matter!
This is a great win for families who want to provide their children with environmental toxin support during these interesting times!
Making meals that include liver and detoxification system supportive foods is also an easy way to support yourself and those you cook meals for.
One of my favorite ways to support the liver is through hot and cold drinks to sip on throughout the day.
Liver Support Sipper
Ingredients:
- 1 inch piece of fresh ginger root
- 1/2 lemon
- 1 cup water
- 1 teaspoon honey (optional)
- Optional: Add 1 drops of edible Lemon essential oil
Instructions:
- Peel the ginger root and slice it into small pieces.
- Squeeze the juice from half a lemon into a glass, then twist the rind to release the oils from the skin into the glass.
- In a small pot, bring the cup of water to a boil.
- Add the sliced ginger to the boiling water and turn off heat but leave pot on stovetop for 5-10 minutes.
- Strain the ginger water into the glass with lemon juice.
- Add honey to taste, if desired.
- Stir the mixture and let it cool down for a few minutes.
- Enjoy your liver detox drink while it's still warm, ideally. Alternatively, chill and serve over ice for a refreshing drink.
Detox Salad with Citrus Dressing
Ingredients:
- 1 cup kale, chopped
- 1 cup arugula
- 1/2 cup beets, shredded
- 1/2 cup broccoli florets
- 1/2 avocado, sliced
- 1/4 cup almonds, sliced
- 1 garlic clove, minced or crushed
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 tsp. turmeric
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: Add 1-3 drops of edible citrus essential oils
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, combine kale, arugula, beets, broccoli, avocado, and almonds.
- In a small bowl, whisk together garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, turmeric, salt, and pepper.
- Pour dressing over salad and toss to combine.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Of course, it's always important to consult with a healthcare professional before trying any new supplements or natural remedies.
But with the right support, our bodies can continue to do the amazing job of detoxifying from environmental toxins and keeping us healthy and strong.
My family has seen firsthand the power of providing detoxification system support in healing and improving energy and mood.
You're welcome to shoot me a message to discuss what might be right for you.
So next time you're feeling overwhelmed by the state of the environment, what's in the news, etc....remember that your body is an amazing machine designed to keep you safe and healthy.
"Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid." John 14:27
Take care of your body, friend, and it will take care of you!
And always remember to put your faith and trust not in things, but in the One who holds you in His hands.
Be well!
References:
- Cheng, J., Liao, M., Zhou, W., Zhang, X., Zhang, Y., & Liu, Y. (2016). The hepatoprotective potential of Lycium barbarum polysaccharides in preventing non-alcoholic fatty liver disease: A review. International Journal of Biological Macromolecules, 88, 133-142
- Chen, Z., Hu, Y., Zhang, Y., Liu, J., & Xu, H. (2014). Protective effects of Lycium barbarum polysaccharides against carbon tetrachloride-induced liver damage in mice. Archives of Pharmacal Research, 37(7), 890-899.
- Parcell, S. (2002). Sulfur in human nutrition and applications in medicine. Alternative Medicine Review, 7(1), 22-44.
- Kim, Y. H., Kim, D. H., Lim, H., Baek, D. Y., Shin, H. K., & Kim, J. K. (2009). The anti-inflammatory effects of methylsulfonylmethane on lipopolysaccharide-induced inflammatory responses in murine macrophages. Biological and Pharmaceutical Bulletin, 32(4), 651-656.
- Nakhostin-Roohi, B., Niknam, Z., Vaezi, N., Mohammadi, S., & Bohlooli, S. (2011). Effect of single dose administration of methylsulfonylmethane on oxidative stress following acute exhaustive exercise. Iranian Journal of Pharmaceutical Research, 10(4), 889-896.
- Khalid, S., & Malik, A. U. (2016). A review on phytochemical and pharmacological studies of Tanacetum annuum L. Journal of Pharmacognosy and Phytochemistry, 5(6), 270-276.
- Horiuchi, M., Yamada, Y., & Sakurai, H. (2016). Antioxidant and hepatoprotective effects of blue tansy (Tanacetum annuum L.) essential oil on acetaminophen-induced liver damage in mice. Journal of Food and Drug Analysis, 24(2), 422-429.
- Chekemiyah, F., & Ezzeldin, E. (2020). Potential therapeutic properties of chamazulene: A review. Biomedicine & Pharmacotherapy, 125, 110010.
- Li, X., Li, S., & Zhang, D. (2017). Antioxidant activity and mechanism of Rhodiola, Salidroside, and Tyrosol. Iranian Journal of Basic Medical Sciences, 20(9), 981-988.
- Choi, S. Y., Kim, J. H., Kim, H. J., Kim, Y. M., & Song, B. R. (2016). Alkalizing effect of lemon juice and lemon essential oil in artificial stomach juice: Preliminary evaluation in healthy human subjects. Annals of Clinical and Laboratory Science, 46(3), 260-263.
