Beat the Heat Naturally with These Herbs

As the days of summer begin a rapid count down, I find myself in the age old dilemma of not wanting to waste my sunny days indoors but not wanting to face the heat either! Here are a few tried and true techniques that cool me down every time.

1. Mint tea.

I'm addicted to Sweet Leaf's Mint & Honey tea, but at the speed I drink these babies I'll be in the poor house soon. (They cost about $2 a pop.) To make your own just brew your a pot of green tea (make it extra strong since you'll be watering it down with cold water and ice) and add a handful of fresh mint leaves (organically grown of course). Let it steep for about 5 minutes, then add a few tablespoons of honey to taste. It's best to add the honey while the tea is hot so it melts and blends well. Pour the hot tea over a pitcher full of ice. Top it up with cold water and stir. Fish out the boiled mint leaves and throw in some fresh ones. Pour over a glass of ice and you're good to go! Take it along with you in a stainless steel canteen for instant refreshment in the sun.

2. Tea Tree Oil and Eucalyptus

Both of these essential oils give a cooling sensation when applied to the skin. Dab some essential oil on your pulse points, or give yourself a rub down with some tea tree or eucalyptus scrub before going out into the heat.

3. Facial Mist

I have a little bottle of Caudalie's Beauty Elixir that I carry with me in my purse. When I get overheated and I can feel my face getting red I give myself a spritz and am instantly soothed. It contains an array of natural elements including mint, rosemary and rose extracts. If you don't want to buy it you can make some soothing facial mist yourself by putting some sprigs of fresh lavender, rosemary and mint into a spray bottle and covering them with cool water. Add a few drops of lavender oil and rose extract for an extra boost.

*Pictures courtesy of Caudalie and myrecipes.com.

CO2 is Good for the Environment Says Dr. David Bellamy

Renowned scientist, environmentalist and conservationist Dr. David Bellamy appeared on the Late Late Show in Ireland at the beginning of this year challenging global warming. He discusses his theory (and that of 34,000 "damn good scientists" around the world) that global warming is a natural cycle due to sun spots not CO2.

"If you look at the sun spots...we're headed for 30 damn cold
years."

Dr. Bellamy believes that though it started with noble intentions, global warming has turned into a scam and is now nothing short of a revenue machine for governments. He believes it takes time and money away from the environmental issues that really matter.

Does Your Friend Need a Green Makeover?

Enter to win an under the sink makeover for a friend and you could both win an eco-spa getaway to New York City! This fabulous green giveaway/ makeover is sponsored by Seventh Generation. I entered a friend (I won't say who...) this morning. I'm crossing my fingers and toes. I could certainly use an eco-spa getaway and she could certainly use some greener, non-toxic cleaners!

Nominate a friend for a home detox and soon you could both be detoxing your
bodies in NYC!

To enter for your chance to win just visit the makeover page on Seventh Generation's website and fill out the short form.

Good luck!