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Self Sufficiency

Chemical Free Sunscreen – Why It Matters

My friends at Honey Colony are here to share why chemical free sunscreen is the way to go. Seriously. If you’ve been using anything else this article will truly shock you. Don’t worry though, I have a solution – and that is an amazing all natural sunscreen I’ve been using! Keep reading for details.

Is there anything more serene than laying out on a quiet beach under the warm summer sun. Be smart this summer, and choose a sunscreen that will be good for you.

Commercial Sunscreen: Get the Facts Before You Slather It On

By Nikki LynPugh

Did you know there are over 10,000 chemical compounds used in the personal products industry as a whole, and only 13% of these have been tested for safety. You do the math – that’s 1,300 that have been tested compared to 8,700 that haven’t! Dozens of these untested chemicals are found in ordinary commercial sunscreens. It is essential to get the facts straight before you put any kind of “protection” on your skin – if we can even call it that.

After all, your skin is the largest organ in your body, as well as one of the most important. In addition to the obvious way it protects your internal system from the external environment, it also detects pain, pressure and temperature, helps to regulate internal core temperature, and is the largest organ of elimination you have. That’s right, your skin serves in pushing the bad chemicals OUT

A lot is riding on how resilient your skin stays, so one would think that skin products should be proven safe before they go on the shelves ─ and on to your body.

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Sunscreen “Conventional Wisdom”?

The fact that sun overexposure can lead to free radical DNA damage and diseases like cancer is nothing new. Nearly two million Americans are diagnosed with skin cancer each year, according to the Skin Cancer Foundation. Local dermatologist usually tell their patients to apply a “full spectrum” sunblock on a daily basis. This protects people against UVA exposure in particular, which is the real culprit when it comes to cell mutation and DNA damage caused by the sun.

Take a second look before you buy, however. The commercial sunscreen you are about to purchase probably contains chemical compounds that could prove to be far more harmful than any damage the sun could ever do.

The Deadly Effects of Commercial Sunscreens

“During the past 50 years, we have increased the number of synthetic sunscreen chemicals that we use,” says Dr. Peter Dingle in a recent article for the online natural health magazine, Nova.

“We have done this with virtually no consideration of how vulnerable we are to these chemicals─ or how little we know about their subtle and cumulative toxic effects. We assume that because they are so easily purchased from the supermarket shelf, they must be safe to use.”

According to a 2001 research study conducted by the Institute of Toxicology in Zurich, Switzerland, methoxycinnanate, oxybenzone, and benzophenone, synthetic compounds found in many commercial sunscreens, have been linked to the growth of breast cancer in laboratory rats.

A chemical compound called 4 MBC is especially potent as well. In studies conducted by the same entity, when 4 MBC was mixed with olive oil and applied to the skin of rats in the same proportions as common sunscreen, it “doubled the rate of uterine growth well before puberty.”

“Ingesting” any one of the substances listed above through the skin can produce Xeno-estrogens in the body. Xeno-estrogens are endocrine disruptors that aggressively replace naturally-occurring estrogen. When a build-up of these “foreign estrogens” occurs, research has shown that this can lead to cancer tumor growth as well as other hormone-related issues. A daunting study conducted by the U.S. Center for Disease Control found that 97 percent of the individuals tested (ages 6 and up) had oxybenzone in their urine.

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Who Are You Really Buying Your Sunscreen From?

“Eighty percent of the sunscreen that is sold in this country is made by three companies,” explains Guerry Grune, PhD, creator of 3rd Rock Sunblock, a mineral-based sun protectant and skin strengthener that uses micronized zinc oxide and other food-grade natural ingredients in an alkaline base.

Grune is also an active member of the committee that helped to pass the Sunscreen Innovation Act last November. However, although the committee thought the Act would be a major victory for stricter regulations, it is turning out to be mere lip service on the part of the Obama administration.

“There are about 10 active sunscreens that were supposed to be tested by the FDA that are being used in countries outside the United States,” explains Grune. “Those sunscreens have not been approved by the FDA because they have not been tested … [The Act] was supposed to push along the FDA to get these 10 sunscreens, as well as other new sunscreens, tested so they could protect the public. The FDA … still has done nothing because, even though [the Act] passed, there was no funding attached to it.”

3RD ROCK – WORLD’S SAFEST SUNSCREEN

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And what of those three companies? Coppertone was recently sold to Bayer (that are known for their bee-killing neonicitinoids). Banana Boat,which is owned by Playtex (the same company that makes Eveready Batteries) and the third company, Neutrogena, despite its “natural” marketing image, is owned by Johnson & Johnson Company since 1995.

With such connections to major drug companies, it’s no surprise that 20 of the 34 sunscreens that made it on to the Environmental Working Group’s “2015 Hall of Shame,” are made by Coppertone, Banana Boat, or Neutrogena.

Alternatives to Toxic Sunscreens

There ARE products out there that actually boost the overall health of the skin while protecting against UVA radiation too. The skin, just like the internal organs, can be effected by overly acidity – which creates the perfect environment for cancer cells to cultivate.

3rd Rock Sunscreen, created by chemical engineer Guerry Grune, PhD, is an example of a product that provides not only protection from UVA exposure, but also creates an alkaline environment that discourages cancer growth as it strengthens the skin overall. This product and others like it are rays of hope in the polluted sea of toxic-laden commercial sunscreens that currently line the shelves.

“If you can’t put it in your mouth, why would you put it on your skin?” Grune says matter-of-factly.

Why, indeed.

Click here to order your own bottle of 3rd Block Sunblock.

Remember, you need to take care of yourself before you take care of anyone else. (I learned that on the plane – who do they say to put the oxygen mask on first?? Y-O-U!!!) That is also why you need to treat your skin right. Avoid cancer, avoid the sun, and just avoid chemicals. I want you all to live a long healthy life! Please let me know if you’ve ordered this product, and how it has worked for you.

Stay safe out there!

Like this post? You’ll Also Like

Why Every Homestead Needs Zinc Oxide Natural Sunscreen

The Best Homemade Skin Care Recipes

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Originally posted on August 10, 2015 @ 1:00 AM

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Self Sufficiency

NYC Adds Nearly 4,000 People Who Never Tested Positive To Coronavirus Death Tolls

New York City added nearly 4,000 people who never tested positive for the coronavirus to its death toll Tuesday, bringing coronavirus-related deaths in the city to around 10,000 people.

The city decided to add 3,700 people to its death tolls, who they “presumed” to have died from the virus, according to a report from The New York Times. The additions increased the death toll in the U.S. by 17%, according to the Times report, and included people who were suffering from symptoms of the virus, such as intense coughing and a fever.

The report stated that Democratic New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio decided over the weekend to change the way the city is counting deaths.

“In the heat of battle, our primary focus has been on saving lives,” de Blasio press secretary Freddi Goldstein told the Times.“As soon as the issue was raised, the mayor immediately moved to release the data.”

The post New York City added nearly 4,000 people who never tested positive for the coronavirus to its death toll appeared first on Daily Caller

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Self Sufficiency

How To Make Lacto-Fermented Sauerkraut In A Mason Jar

The thing about homesteading is you get to create your own ingredient right from scratch! Cheese, yogurt, butter and now sauerkraut, a delightfully sour and crunchy ingredient you can use on your meals — or consume by itself — while on a homestead, or while facing this health crisis!

This homemade sauerkraut is a great meal because it has a long shelf life. You can either make plain sauerkraut or mix it with herbs and spices. In this tutorial let us make Lacto-fermented sauerkraut that preserves all the good probiotics in a jar, good for your guts.

So how to make sauerkraut in a mason jar?

RELATED: How To Make Buttermilk On Your Homestead

Delicious Sauerkraut Recipe Every Homesteader Should Know

Why Make Sauerkraut?

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Not only does sauerkraut spoil a long time, but it is also a meal in itself, and it is also easy to make! You don’t need to be an expert cook, all you need to do is follow these simple steps.

So let us get started. Here are the steps in making sauerkraut in a mason jar.

Ingredients:

  • 1 head of cabbage or 2 1/2 lbs cabbage
  • 1 tablespoon of salt

Tools Needed:

  • knife
  • bowl
  • mason jar
  • smaller jar
  • rubber band

Step 1: Wash & Clean the Tools & Ingredients



Wash all the equipment and utensils you need. Wash your hands too.

You don’t want to mix your sauerkraut with bad bacteria, anything that is going to make you sick.

Next, remove the faded leaves from your cabbage. Cut off the roots and the parts that don’t seem fresh.

Step 2: Cut the Cabbage Into Quarters & Slice Into Strips



Cut your cabbage into quarters and remove the core. Then, slice it into strips.

Step 3: Place in a Bowl & Sprinkle With Salt



Put the stripped cabbage into a bowl. Sprinkle the cabbage with 1 tablespoon of salt.

TIP: Use canning salt or sea salt. Iodized salt will make it taste different and may not ferment the cabbage.

RELATED: Homemade Yogurt Recipe

Step 4: Massage the Cabbage



Massage the cabbage for five minutes or more to get the juice out.

TIP: You’ll know it’s ready when you see a bit of juice at the bottom of the bowl and will look similar to coleslaw.

Step 5: Press Cabbage Into the Mason Jar



Add the cabbage to the mason jar gradually. Press it in hard to allow the juice to come out. Do this every time you add about a handful of cabbage.

IMPORTANT: Food should be covered by the liquid to promote fermentation. Add any excess liquid from the bowl to the jar.

Step 6: Press a Smaller Jar Into the Mason Jar



You want to squeeze every ounce of that juice from the cabbage. To do this place the mason jar in a bowl and get a smaller jar.

Fill it with water or marble to make it heavy. Press it into the bigger mason jar. Allow any juices to rise to the surface.

Step 7: Cover the Jars With Cloth & Tie With Rubber Band



Leave the small jar on. To keep your jars clean from annoying insects and irritating debris, cover your jars with a clean cloth. Then, use a rubber band to tie the cloth and the jars together, putting them in place.

Step 8: Set Aside & Check Daily

Set it aside in a cool dry place, away from direct sunlight. Check the water level daily. It should always be above the cabbage.

Step 9: Taste Your Sauerkraut & Keep at Cool Temperatures

Homemade Sauerkraut Cumin Juniper | How To Make Lacto-Fermented Sauerkraut In A Mason Jar

After about five days, you can taste your sauerkraut. If the taste is to your liking, tightly cover it with the lid and store in the fridge or cellar.

NOTE: If after five days it’s still not your desired taste, leave it for a few more days. This will allow the fermentation process to continue.

You can now enjoy your sauerkraut in a mason jar. Enjoy its goodness! You can use it as a side dish or mix it with your favorite sandwich.

Things to Remember in Making Sauerkraut

  • Store away from direct sunlight and drafts.
  • Colder weather will make the process longer. Spring is the best time to make them since the warmth helps activate the fermentation.
  • Always make sure that the cabbage is below the water level during the entire fermentation process.
  • If the water level decreases during the fermentation process, you can make a brine and add it.

Let us watch this video from Kristina Seleshanko on how to make delicious Lacto-fermented sauerkraut in a mason jar!

So there you have it! Making Lacto-fermented sauerkraut in a mason jar is as easy as slicing the cabbage into strips. Remember that as long it remains unopened, your sauerkraut can last for months. Best of all, you can partner this sauerkraut in many recipes.

What do you think of this homemade recipe? Share your best sauerkraut recipe in the comments section below!

Fellow homesteaders, do you want to help others learn from your journey by becoming one of our original contributors? Write for us!

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Self Sufficiency

9 SPRING VEGETABLES FOR YOUR GARDEN

Having plants in the house will bring peace to people. Having a little garden with vegetables is even better! You can grow these vegetables in your backyard garden easily as well!

RELATED: Microgreens Growing Guide

In this article:

  1. Tomato
  2. Eggplant
  3. Beet
  4. Spinach
  5. Pea
  6. Carrot
  7. Radish
  8. Cauliflower
  9. Asparagus

Growing veggies in your garden will give you an opportunity to understand what you eat and value it more. Early spring is when most vegetables are being planted. Keep reading to learn about 9 spring vegetables that anyone can grow in their garden!

Tomato

Tomato is the most popular garden vegetable in the States! There are different varieties to choose from. Tomatoes need to be planted in early spring because they won’t survive a frost.

Because tomatoes are consumed daily, try adding them to your garden! They’re not difficult to grow either.

Eggplant

Eggplants are known to have low-calorie, vitamins, minerals, and nutrients. Plus, they are delicious! So why not plant them in your garden?

Eggplants shouldn’t be planted too early because they won’t be able to survive a frost. So you could consult an expert in your area before you plant your eggplants.

Beets

Beets are known to be a superfood for its various health benefits. They’re easier to grow in the garden, usually around late March or early April.

If the weather is always cool, beets will keep getting bigger and bigger. Once the weather starts to warm up, you’ll need to harvest them, or they’ll go to waste.

Spinach

Spinach is a delicious early spring veggie, and it’s also very beneficial for health. And it’s not difficult to grow spinach in your garden!

Spinach needs cold weather to grow. Getting spinach to grow is easy, but keeping it growing will require some extra care.

Pea

Peas are usually planted in late April. Peas will die in freezing temperatures, but they also won’t survive the heat either. So make sure you plant your peas in early spring.

Peas are widely used in many different ways, and there are different types of peas. The soil you’ll be planting your peas should be suitable for them, so make sure you ask while buying seeds.

Carrot

There are different types of carrots, but regardless of their size and color, it’s a fact that carrots are both delicious and rich in vitamins.

They’re root vegetables, so with proper sun and watering, they can be picked up as baby carrots as well.

Radish

A radish is an excellent option for beginners because it doesn’t require too much care. Radish is easy to harvest.

Radish grows fast, so it’s better to keep an eye on it after a few weeks. Radish usually is grown pest-free, but there’s always the chance of unwanted guests, so watch out for worms. Radish can be eaten raw or can be added to garnish recipes.

Cauliflower

Cauliflower isn’t the easiest vegetable to grow at home, but it is very popular.

Cauliflower grows better in colder weather, so before you plant it, consider the climate of your garden. Cauliflower can be eaten raw or cooked, and it is known to be very beneficial for health.

Asparagus

Freshly picked, tender asparagus is very delicious!

Asparagus plants get more productive with each harvest, and mature asparagus harvest can last for months! Make sure you plant them at the correct time, or else they might go to waste.

All the vegetables listed above are great for your healthy diet, and it’s fun to watch them grow. So don’t miss out on the opportunity to grow your own veggies and eat healthy this spring!

So tell us which veggies will you be growing this spring? Tell us in the comments section!

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