Banner Banter - Alternative Therapy

Reflexology Sandals: Simple and Effective Natural Health Remedies

Banner Therapy — Thu, 25 Sep 2008 14:47:00 GMT

Reflexology is the ancient art of using the charkas in the feet to keep bodily organs and functions running at optimum performance. The chakra system is made up of 7 energy points beginning with the sacrum, and ending at the crown of the head. This neurological energy system corresponds with specific places on the feet, and can be activated when a trained reflexologist massages the feet at precise corresponding points.

Reflexology has other benefits, besides activating energy points in the body. It originated in Chinese medicine, yet it has been popular in the West for many years. Reflexologists specialize in massaging different points on the feet and hands for a multitude of positive effects. Reflexology is used to improve circulation, increase metabolism, and reduce strain on the heart and other bodily organs. The practice of reflexology is also a great way to purge toxins from the blood and organs.

Like massage and other bodywork, when reflexology is employed on a regular basis it can have a great overall impact on the body and its performance level. Reflexology is a practical alternative health treatment that complements all kinds of other holistic health practices including acupuncture, massage therapy, chiropractic, cranio sacral and yoga therapy.

Live Holistically: Reflexology Natural Health Products

Learn Holistic Health Principles with Reflexology Charts

For those interested in learning more about which points in both the hands and feet correspond to which bodily organs and functions, a color coded reflexology chart will reveal the places where reflexology massage can have the desired impact. Throughout the world reflexology has been considered a natural health solution for any number of health imbalances. In order to achieve success one must fully understand the relationship between the reflexology points and the organ functions precisely.

Promote Natural Healing at Home, Wear Reflexology Sandals

Reflexology sandals are designed to highlight the impact of pressure on one or more of the 68 points on the feet that directly correspond with a specific area or location on the body. They’re an economic and convenient way to stimulate the reflexology points without even leaving the home. Some have reported increased energy levels after wearing reflexology sandals for many days per week and several weeks in a row. Others have noticed that they are easier to wear if the feet are introduced to them in smaller time intervals, such as five to ten minutes, at first. After getting used to the reflexology sandals, they can be worn for longer intervals of time.

For best results, do not wear reflexology sandals all of the time. Instead, use the sandals for selected intervals of time, say 10-20 minutes. Wear reflexology sandals on a regular basis. Just wearing them will help stimulate the points where the most work is desired. The sandals can be customized with modules that focus on specific points on the feet. Once the areas are selected, the stimulation occurs there.

Reflexology Sandals: Affordable Natural Health Products for the Home

According to reflexologists, paying attention to foot problems helps to restore balance in the rest of the body, leading to better health. Many people can benefit from wearing reflexology sandals on a regular basis. Anyone suffering from tired and achy feet can easily spend fifteen minutes to a half hour relaxing and rejuvenating them after a long day. And, if you experience problems in other areas of the body you may find that the activation of reflexology points can provide relief from chronic lower back pain, neck and shoulder pain, muscle fatigue and more.

Reflexology sandals are only around $25. They’re a great way to treat yourself or a loved one in need of natural pain relief or an alternative health boost. Many people throughout history have used reflexology effectively in their health care routines. So, why not try a pair of reflexology sandals? They’re a wonderful at home tool to aid in bodily performance, and ease some aches and pains, too.

Sponsored by Banner Therapy Products.

Organic Trends: Reasons to Buy Chemical Free Organic Skin Care and Beauty Products

Banner Therapy — Fri, 12 Sep 2008 20:04:59 GMT

In 2008 there have been a number of controversies surrounding all natural and organic nonfood products, even a lawsuit between the state of California and companies selling products that tested highest for a known carcinogen: 1,4-Dioxane. According to the Organic Consumers Association Whole Foods Market California, Avalon Natural Products, Beaumont Products, Nutribiotic and other manufacturers have been implicated.

In the July 7, 2008 article entitled “USDA to define ‘natural’ personal care products” published by the Sacramento Bee newspaper writer Jane Liaw reports, “At the national level, the U.S. Department of Agriculture is working on a definition of ‘natural products’ to be used in future standards, said USDA National Organic Program spokesman Billy Cox. It does not certify natural products. The department's National Organic Program certifies organically produced cosmetics and body care products but on a voluntary basis.”

Many consumers and companies producing organic skin care, beauty and household products believe stricter requirements for organic nonfood items such as organic skin care products, cosmetics and personal hygiene merchandise will motivate organic manufacturers to achieve and maintain higher standards

Green Beauty and Organic Skin Care Products: Protect the Environment and the Future

The United States government created the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) with a mission to protect human health and the environment. According to research by the EPA Pharmaceuticals and Personal Care Products (PPCP’s) cause thousands of toxic, chemical substances to act as pollutants in our environment. PPCP’s can be found in prescription and over the counter drugs, veterinary drugs, fragrances, cosmetics and personal care products.

“The importance of individuals adding chemicals to the environment has been largely overlooked. The discovery of PPCP’s in water and soil shows even simple activities like shaving, using lotion, or taking medication affect the environment in which you live,” states the EPA.gov web site. “The number of PPCP’s is growing. In addition to antibiotics and steroids, over 100 individual PPCP’s have been identified (as of 2007) in environmental samples and drinking water.”

When you buy organic skin care products, nontoxic personal hygiene items and eco-friendly beauty products you help protect your body from harmful chemicals and the environment from pollution.

Eco-Friendly, Organic Skin Care Products Can Protect You and Your Family

On February 4, 2008 the Environmental Working Group (EWG), a non-profit organization focused on public health and the environment, issued a statement entitled “Study Shows Infants Exposed to Reproductive Toxins from Shampoo, Lotion and Powder.” The release stated that, “An EWG study found that personal care products expose children to an average of 60 chemicals every day that they can breathe in or that absorb through their skin. EWG product testing, conducted in partnership with Health Care Without Harm and other members of the Campaign for Safe Cosmetics, showed phthalates in three-quarters of 72 name-brand products tested. Because federal law contains no safety standard for cosmetics, it is legal for companies to use ingredients that are reproductive toxins like phthalates, carcinogens, and other potentially harmful substances.”

According to the EWG Cosmetic Safety Database, “Most people use these products without a second thought, and believe that the government must certainly be policing the safety of the mixtures in these myriad containers. But they are wrong about this. The government does not require health studies or pre-market testing for these products before they are sold.” “And as people apply an average of 126 unique ingredients on their skin daily,” the EWG web site continues, “these chemicals, whether they seep through the skin, rinse down the drain, or flush down the toilet in human excretions, are causing concerns for human health, and for the impacts they may have to wildlife, rivers and streams.”

Although we still do not know for certain the long term affects these PPCP’s and chemical ingredients have on humans minimizing your exposure to them will support your overall health. Children are especially sensitive since their bodies are still growing, maturing and developing. Eating organic foods keeps dangerous pesticides and insecticides out of your family’s diet, while organic skin care and body products keep harsh chemicals away from the skin and reduce pollution in the ground and water.

Green Living with Organic Skin Care Products

Living an environmentally friendly and healthy lifestyle is something all people should strive for, especially if we are going to preserve a stable world for future generations. Don’t simply trust advertising and commercials, read product labels and educate yourself about natural and synthetic ingredients. Choose eco-friendly personal care and organic skin care products wisely.

Sponsored by Banner Therapy Products.

Organic Blessings: Certified Organic Skin Care Products for Infants and Children

Banner Therapy — Fri, 05 Sep 2008 13:55:18 GMT

The Beginning of Organic Blessings Certified Organic Skin Care Products
When Mark and Christine, the creators and owners of Organic Blessings, had their beautiful baby girl Rebekah they were thrilled. Like all parents Rebekah’s health, growth and development became their top priority and chemicals used in most bath and body products, even products geared towards infants, became a major concern. Mark and Christine searched for all natural, chemical free shampoos, soaps and lotions that would safeguard and nourish the skin of their little angel, but after looking for some time they still could not find products that were truly chemical free. Fueled and inspired by their own desire to protect their daughter from harmful synthetic fragrances and petrochemicals, Mark and Christine began to educate themselves about organic skincare products; they were surprised by what they found.

The Difference Between Natural, Organic and Certified Organic Skin Care Products
On the market today there are three different kinds of skin care products available for people worried about their exposure to chemicals and toxins: all natural, organic and Certified Organic. The terms natural and organic are not often clearly defined for consumers and there are no requirements for use of these terms. “Natural” or “Organic” products may have some natural and organic ingredients, however, this does not mean that they are free of all artificial preservatives, chemicals, fragrances or dyes. Only the USDA (US Department of Agriculture) certification seal ensures the quality of the ingredients and guarantees the product you are buying is truly organic. The term “Certified Organic” is governed by strict NOP (National Organic Program) requirements and the USDA Certified Organic seal supports truth in labeling. Certified Organic skin care products provide assurance that the ingredients are not genetically modified or engineered. All Certified Organic ingredients are grown and processed without harsh chemical pesticides and processing aids, delivering the healing benefits of nature in their purest form.

The First Certified Organic Skin Care Products Made For Children
After learning as much as they could about organic skin care products Mark and Christine decided to begin developing Certified Organic skincare products specifically formulated with infants in mind and with the help of a knowledgeable and experienced chemist Organic Blessings was born! Organic Blessings is a line of top quality, 100% chemical free, organic skin care products. They are the first products of their kind on the market and they are an excellent choice for any parent concerned with their baby’s exposure to harsh chemicals and preservatives at an early age.

USDA Certified Organic Skin Care Products Your Kids Will Love!
Currently Organic Blessings offers two Certified Organic skin care products for babies: Shampoo/Body Wash and Vapor Rub. They also offer an organic French Milled Baby Bar Soap. Organic Blessings is also completing the development of Certified Organic baby lotion, baby massage oil and diaper ointment. The Organic Blessings Little Angel Collection are Certified Organic skincare products parents can trust and feel good about using on their baby.

Organic Blessings Foaming Baby Shampoo & Body Wash
The Certified Organic Baby Shampoo & Body Wash comes in an 8-ounce Foam Pump Dispenser in a pleasant red mandarin scent. The convenient foam pump helps keep Shampoo/Body Wash away from your baby’s sensitive eyes. Free from toxic chemicals, this certified organic skin care product contains a nourishing blend of Certified Organic ingredients to gently cleanse, moisturize, and relax babies. Bath and body products applied on your baby’s skin can be absorbed into their bloodstream and carried through their system. Babies deserve a good start in life and keeping noxious chemicals out of their bodies is the first step.

Ingredients

* Organic Apple Essence
* Purified Water
* Organic Soybean Oil
* Organic Coconut Oil
* Organic Red Mandarin Essential Oil
* Organic Olive Oil
* Organic Aloe Leaf Juice Powder

This certified organic skin care product is not tested on animals and contains no animal ingredients, no artificial colors or synthetic ingredients.

Organic Blessings Certified Organic Baby Vapor Rub
Beautifully packaged, this certified organic skin care product comes in a 1.3-ounce container. Free from toxic chemicals Organic Blessings Vapor Rub is a blend of nourishing, Certified Organic ingredients that gently sooth, calm and comfort fussy babies.

Ingredients:

    * Organic Soybean Oil ( Soja hispida)
    * Organic Coconut Oil ( Cocos nucifera)
    * Organic Beeswax
    * Organic Shea Butter ( Butyrospermum parkii)
    * Organic Eucalyptus Essential Oil (Eucalyptus globulus)
    * Vegetable Glycerin ( Palm derived)
    * Organic Rosemary Essential Oil (Rosmarinus officinalis)
    * Organic Sweet Almond Oil ( Prunus dulcis)
    * Organic Lavender Essential Oil (Lavandula angustifolia )

This certified organic skin care product is not tested on animals and contains no animal ingredients, no artificial colors or synthetic ingredients.

Organic Blessings French Milled Baby Bar Soap
Made from organic shea butter and calendula Organic Blessings French Milled Baby Bar Soap is a high quality product made entirely from natural ingredients that gently cleanse and moisturize you baby’s skin. Unlike other Organic Blessings this product is not yet USDA Certified Organic. Due to the strict NOP regulations soaps of any kind are difficult to certify due to the manufacturing laws for Certified Organic skin care products. Organic Blessings is does guarantee that the French Milled Baby Bar Soap is chemical free and been tested for safety.

Ingredients

Organic Shea Butter moisturizes and protects skin from getting that dry flaky texture commonly associated with chemical based soaps and those made from beef fat, known as "sodium tallowate".
Organic Calendula Herb has long been used to cure skin problems and is renowned for its amazing ability to reduce inflammation, and irritation, including in eczema, diaper rash, and cradle cap. Gentle enough for sensitive places and newborns.
Organic Lavender helps induce relaxation and tuck baby off to sleep.

What you won’t find in Organic Blessings soap:

Sodium Tallowate (beef fat)
Cocamidopropyl Betaine (synthetic/chemical detergent)
EDTAs (synthetic/chemical preservatives)
Petrolatum (synthetic/chemical emollient; made from petroleum pulled up from oil wells just like gasoline and produced in a petrochemical refinery thru catalytic reactions that crack molecular structure)
Mineral Oil (a byproduct of petroleum in the making of gasoline)
F, D & C Colors (colorants derived from coal tar, a known carcinogen)
Propylene Glycol (synthetic/chemical used to trap moisture; petroleum-based, like gasoline; pulled up from oil wells & produced in a refinery through chemical reactions using banned racing fuel)
BHT (synthetic/chemical preservative; linked in studies to birth defects, infertility, behavioral problems/hyperactivity in kids)
Talc (linked with cancer)
Triclosan (synthetic/chemical anti-bacterial agent; made from an herbicide used to poison weeds)
Titanium Dioxide (chemically processed/synthetic; classified by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) as a possible carcinogen)
PEGs (synthetic/chemical detergent; made from ethylene oxide, a known human carcinogen per the IARC)
Fragrance (harmless-sounding term used to conceal 3000 synthetic chemicals, which are aromatic but not from flower essential oils, they are mostly from petroleum)

Sponsored by Banner Therapy Products.

Natural Health Remedies of the Ancient World

Banner Therapy — Mon, 25 Feb 2008 15:21:47 GMT

How Essential Oils, Organic Herbs and Natural Health and Beauty Practices Work In Our Modern World

In 2008 environmental concerns and issues of toxicity in food, water and air are common across the globe. Many consumers today have acknowledged the importance of using organic, earth-friendly health and beauty products not only because it benefits the planet, but because it also benefits the human body. Even spa therapy professionals such as massage therapists, estheticians, and salon owners have caught on.

Spas across the country now feature organic massage therapy oils and natural healing herbs for body wraps and saunas. As an increased understanding of natural health remedies emerges, people identify natural and organic products as a way to maintain optimum health. Essential oils and organic herbs are some of the most popular natural health and beauty tools on the market. Their use can be traced as far back as ancient Egyptian culture and the advantages are undeniable.

A Slice of Spa Therapy History: Ancient Egypt’s Natural Health and Beauty Alternatives

In a recent article on Happi.com experts Mona Shaath and Nadim A. Shaath, PhD. (Alpha Research and Development, Ltd.) evaluate the relationship of ancient, natural health and beauty practices to our modern practices today. The article, titled “The Afterlife of Natural, Ancient Egyptian Cosmetics” , covers a myriad of facts. According to the Shaath’s, “The health and beauty practices developed by the ancient Egyptians expose a sophisticated knowledge of the natural world; how to use nature’s bounty and achieve calculated results.” “Now that the beauty industry is leaning toward the use of natural ingredients and environmentally sensitive farming, there is renewed interest in the ancient natural sciences,” the article continues, “An examination of an era before synthetics could provide a roadmap away from our utter dependence on artificial ingredients.”

Despite the valuable benefits of using natural cosmetics or organic spa therapy supplies, the Shaath’s do not advocate ignoring medical science and modern advances. “While the knowledge of the ancients is impressive, we must be mindful to use our current scientific knowledge when incorporating suggestions from Ancient Egypt. The ancients did not have the full benefit of our modern technological developments,” they state, “Surely, we can combine the wisdom from the past with our current modern ingredients and advanced analytical techniques.”

Traditional Organic Essential Oil: A Necessary Health and Beauty Tool for the Ancient Egyptians

“The Afterlife of Natural, Ancient Egyptian Cosmetics”, written by Mona Shaath and Nadim A. Shaath, also mentions specific organic herbs valued by the Egyptians, some of which were used as essential oil. “Valuable information was recorded on papyrus and on temple walls; many ancient products treating most of the common diseases were depicted. Some of these ingredients and formulations have been in use since ancient times. Folklore medicine that continues the ancient traditions uses ingredients that are commonly accepted for their effectiveness—they are tried-and-true,” state the Shaaths.

According to the article natural healing herbs and flowers like rose, geranium, basil and jasmine were well loved by the Egyptian people. Mona and Nadim Shaath attribute the following uses and characteristics to each of the specific essential oils:

Rose Essential Oil
Used in tombs, funeral rites and baths/Increases the skin’s softness and cleanliness
Geranium Essential Oil
Has mood enhancing and anti-depressant qualities/Can treat wounds and has anti-fungal properties
Basil Essential Oil
Known for insecticidal and anti-microbial properties/Can be used as a preservative
Jasmine Essential Oil
Used as a sedative and anti-depressant/Used in cosmetics for the treatment of skin conditions and oiliness of the hair and skin

Sponsored by Banner Therapy Products.

Some Sensual Gift Ideas for Your Valentine

Banner Therapy — Tue, 05 Feb 2008 15:18:38 GMT

A popular question in February is ---What to get for a loved one on Valentine’s Day? The obvious answer would be something that expresses your love and devotion. Personal items, or products that help a person to luxuriate and/or relax, are often the types of gifts women prefer. Men like to be pampered, too.

Here are some great gift ideas for Valentine’s Day that will help bring you closer to the one you love. These gift ideas are sure to please, by making your special someone the focus of your attention, creating a romantic atmosphere, and relaxing the body and mind on Valentine’s Day.

Aromatherapy Gifts

There is no better way to be intimate with your partner then enticing him or her with the powerful sense of smell. There are plenty of love inducing scents to choose from that will put your love interest in a romantic mood.

The best essential oil picks for inspiring love are: ylang ylang, lavender, and bergamot. An essential oil mix that help bring Cupid near: Arum Sensuality Essential Oil Blend (A combination of bergamot, lemon, sandalwood, rose, jasmine and vetiver). There are other essential oils that help engender romance, too.

Select some romantic essential oils for your Valentine -- but don’t forget the diffuser. You can use the Simplicity Aroma Diffuser or the Spa Center Air Diffuser . Help spread the mood of love, relaxation and pleasure throughout any space with aromatherapy diffusers and the right essential oils.

Massage Tools and Massage Oils

What better way to be intimate with your loved one than to offer them a foot massage, or a light shoulder and neck massage? Make sure you have some high quality scented massage oil around for that special moment with that special someone. Mix your own massage oil by starting with a good jojoba oil and some of your favorite essential oils. Or, try the BTP Relaxing Massage Oil blend with a combination of lavender and rosemary that is sure to make your loved one relax and enjoy the moment. Perhaps you are the type of person who would like some special assistance with that foot and leg rub on Valentine’s Day? If so the Jeanie Rub Foot and Leg Massager might be just the right gift. Your partner can enjoy the Jeanie Rub from you on Valentine’s Day and use it throughout the year even when you’re not around.

Personal Massagers

Foot and leg massages are popular among lovers, but there’s no need to fret if it’s not your preference. There are a variety of personal massagers to choose from that will massage many areas of the body including the back, neck, arms, legs, and torso. To relieve back stress and promote relaxation use the XTC Back Massager. The Thumper Mini Pro2 Massager is a good choice from a variety of personal massagers because it excels at hard to reach areas such as the shoulders or mid-back.

It’s fun to plan some extra special surprises on Valentine’s Day. Be creative. No matter how you choose to show your loved one how special they are this Valentine’s Day, make sure to plan in advance. Be prepared on Valentine’s Day, so you’re not stuck at the last minute, dreaming up ideas before the store closes. Order on-line and save time.

Sponsored by Banner Therapy Products.

Alternative Health Treatments for Nasal Irrigation

Banner Therapy — Mon, 21 Jan 2008 16:19:35 GMT

The Laryngoscope, a peer-reviewed journal of the American Laryngological, Rhinological and Otological Society, recently published the results of an American study that surveyed 211 patients with different nasal inflammatory conditions, including allergies.
The study concluded that the daily use of nasal cleansing with salt water significantly improved many of the parameters of experienced discomfort. It also revealed that nasal irrigation has the potential to improve overall quality of life and is a cost-effective treatment.

Benefits of Nasal Rinse

Nasal irrigation is a personal hygiene practice that involves flooding the nasal cavity with warm saline solution.&nbsp; The goal of nasal irrigation is to clear out excess mucus and particulates while moisturizing the nasal cavity. Either a fluid-filled syringe such as Nasaline or a Neti Pot can be used. Nasaline was developed by a team of Swedish ear, nose, and throat specialists. Neti pots have been used in India and South East Asia for centuries to clear the nasal passages and sinuses, and are still widely used today around the world.

The practice of nasal irrigation/rinse has been subjected to clinical testing and has been found to be safe and beneficial, with no apparent side effects.

A nasal rinse will:

Remove mucus and pollution of the nasal passages and sinuses
Help to prevent respiratory tract diseases
Relieve allergies, colds and sinusitis
Help in the treatment of headaches and migraines
Remove feelings of drowsiness, making the head feel clear and light.

Nasal Irrigation Treatments

There are several products on the market that profess to clear nasal passages and sinus airways, however, many are prescription drugs or over-the-counter products that are filled with artificial ingredients. Nasaline and neti pots are natural-therapy alternatives. They are gentle and easy-to-use.

Doctors recommend nasal irrigation to treat symptoms associated with colds, the flu, allergies, or other sinus-related infections.

So, how are they used?

Nasaline: The patented silicone tip is designed to fit snugly in most adult nostrils. The tip produces a gentle swirl stream when the saline solution enters the nose washing away harmful, irritating particles. Simply fill the Nasaline syringe with 2-ounces of saline solution and experience drug-free relief from everyday nasal and sinus ailments.

Neti Pot: This is an interesting little pot that looks like a small tea pot. It is used for running a saline solution through nasal passages. It will moisturize, clear nasal passages, and help to prevent infections.

To use the neti pot, simply prepare the saline solution by adding 8-ounces of warm water and a quarter teaspoon of non-iodized salt the pot. Turn your head to the side, and insert the spout into the upper nostril. Raise the neti pot so the saline solution flows into the nose and out of the lower nostril.

"Users can also enhance the benefits of the nasal wash. For neti pot use, neti pot salts and washes are available," Tom Maroney, CEO of Banner Therapy Products, said. "For Nasaline users, complementing salts are also helpful."

www.bannertherapy.com is an e-commerce site that offers physical therapy, spa therapy, massage therapy, chiropractic, and alternative therapy products, supplies, and equipment. They also have a wide selection of rehabilitation, homeopathic, and occupational health products.

Maroney recommends that after using the neti pot, users may like to do the following simple exercise before blowing their nose: lean forward from the hips and waist, head hanging down, and turn your head from side to side.

Some practitioners recommend "drying" the sinuses at this stage by rapidly breathing in and out through both nostrils.

In conclusion, whether you choose Nasaline or the neti pot, you are sure to be satisfied with the results of these natural therapy alternatives and will embrace these alternative health care practices to make a positive change in your health.

Sponsored by Banner Therapy Products.