What are Crows’ Feet?

Crows’ feet (also called ‘laugh lines’) are small wrinkles that develop around the eye. They typically start at the outer corner of the eye and are most visible when you contract the muscles in your face – squinting and smiling often unlock their presence. Crows’ feet are considered a dreaded feature on a face because they are associated with age. As you get older, these wrinkles tend to deepen and expand.

Causes of Crows’ Feet

The main cause of crows’ feet is your exposure to sunlight, which plays a big role in the overall aging of skin. Since the sun makes people squint a lot, the constant motion of the skin causes wrinkling in the face. Smokers are also susceptible to crows’ feet for two reasons – the chemicals that swirl around their skin and the tendency to squint the eyes in order to shield them from the irritants in the smoke. Other factors that contribute to the development of crows’ feet include menopause, solar radiation, and infrequent skincare measures.

Crows’ Feet Home Remedies

Crows’ feet make up some of the first wrinkles to appear on the face. Treating this region is pretty tricky since it is vulnerable to fine lines and plenty of everyday threats. If you detect a few lines making their way around your eyes, you may want to consider some of the following home remedies for crows’ feet:

a) Hat:

To prevent crows’ feet from getting worse, wear a hat when you plan on being out in the sun.

b) Sunglasses:

Wearing sunglasses helps you avoid the facial lines that come from constant squinting and grimacing when faced with the sun’s rays.

c) Sunscreen:

To prevent wrinkles from forming in delicate eye areas, apply sunscreen for protection.

d) Olive Oil:

Apply olive oil to crows’ feet to ease the signs of aging.

e) Blueberries:

To treat crows’ feet, you can use the antioxidant-rich power of blueberries, which promotes healthier skin. Add four tablespoons of blueberries and ½ cup of lemon juice to a blender, and mix well. With a cotton ball, apply the remedy to the outside of your eyes. Leave it on for 15 to 30 minutes before rinsing off with warm water.

f) Petroleum Jelly:

Some people will rub petroleum jelly on their crows’ feet to soften the lines on their face.

g) Papaya Juice:

The enzymes found in papaya juice can help treat crows’ feet. The papain found in the fruit helps remove dead skin cells, as well as helps prevent the formation of wrinkles under the eyes. Apply papaya juice around the eye area and leave on for 10 to 15 minutes to enjoy a hydrating treatment.

h) Egg Whites:

For a once-a-week treatment, apply egg whites around the crows’ feet region of the eyes. Use a cotton ball to administer this remedy. Allow it to dry, and then remove with a cotton ball soaked in warm water after 10 to 15 minutes have passed. Completely wash off the treatment. You should feel a temporary tightening under the eye skin. The egg whites also help to flatten the appearance of wrinkles.

i) Water:

Drink lots of water to keep hydration levels up, which reduces the appearance of crows’ feet and wrinkles.

j) Go Easy on the Foundation:

If you avoid the use of heavy foundation or powder around your crows’ feet, you can minimize the appearance of lines on your face.

k) Grapes:

To reduce wrinkles around the eyes, take advantage of the alpha hydroxyl acid (malic acid) found in Thompson seedless grapes. Choose the green variety, where you mix 20 grapes in a small food processor on high for one minute. Pour some of the juice on a cotton ball and apply to the face. Let it stay on for 20 minutes, and then rinse with warm water.

l) Soybeans and Milk [1]:

To reduce crows’ feet, add ½ cup of soybeans (that have been soaked overnight in one cup of water) to a blender and turn into a paste. Add one tablespoon of whole milk, and blend for another minute. Place the remedy under the eyes and leave on for 15 minutes.

m) Vitamin E Oil:

With powerful antioxidant properties, vitamin E helps fight wrinkles on the face. Break open a capsule and rub in under and around your eyes.

n) Eat Antioxidant-Rich Foods:

There are foods that can increase the protection of your skin. Opt for foods that are high in antioxidants. A few suggestions include eggplant, asparagus, and fish.

o) Quick Makeup Removal:

When you no longer have the need to dazzle in your favorite eye shadow and mascara, quickly remove your cosmetics. Going to bed in your makeup encourages fine lines and crows’ feet to develop.

p) Kick the Habit:

Smoking tobacco products can worsen the appearance of crows’ feet and drastically age your skin over time. Kick the habit to enjoy health benefits beyond better skin. Also, stay out of smoke-filled rooms, which can also affect the appearance of lines and wrinkles.

q) Moisturize the Skin:

It is important to pay attention to your skin no matter what age you are. Keeping your skin hydrated is a significant part of face care because dry skin is a playground for wrinkles.

Resources

[1] Babushka’s Beauty Secrets by Raisa Ruder; pg. 71.

Jewelry Home Remedies

It’s hard to take off your wedding ring or remove the good luck charm hanging around your neck, but there comes a time when you have to clean or fix a piece of jewelry. In the long run, the material will look better and last longer. The following home remedies for jewelry provides plenty of opportunities to treat your pieces with cost-effective care:

a) Pencil Eraser:

When the back or clasp of an earring has fallen off or gotten lost, use a pencil eraser to hold it all together. Cut the end of a pencil eraser with something sharp. Insert the point of the earring through your ear hole and press into the piece of eraser.

b) Fabric Softener [1]:

Revamp the look of tarnished sterling silver jewelry by soaking pieces in a mixture of fabric softener, salt, and water. Heat four cups of water in a pot on the stove, and add four teaspoons of salt. Stir the ingredients until they dissolve. Add enough fabric softener to make the mixture cloudy. Soak the jewelry in the pot for one hour, and after removing, rinse under warm water. Use a clean, dry cloth to lightly rub clean.

c) Tape:

To prevent chains from tangling while you are traveling, cover both sides of the jewelry with transparent tape. This is also a good remedy to make sure that a pair of earrings does not separate while being transported. You can also use tape to make it easier to get a bracelet on. Attach the bracelet to your arm with a small piece of tape. After clasping the bracelet, simply pull off the tape.

d) Nail Polish:

If a stone in one of your jewelry pieces has come loose, use a small drop of clear nail polish to act as glue. The polish dries quickly and no one will be able to detect the repair.

e) Laundry Detergent and Aluminum Foil:

A small bowl lined with aluminum foil and filled with hot water can help clean your jewelry. Add one tablespoon of powdered laundry detergent (the bleach-free kind) to the bowl, and place your silver pieces in the solution. Let soak for one minute before rinsing and then air drying. The jewelry is cleaned by a chemical process called ion exchange.

f) Vodka:

To clean your crystalline gemstones, soak your diamond ring in a shot of vodka. When you take the piece out of the liquid, use a soft cloth to polish it to reach a shine. This remedy will only work with diamonds and emeralds – do not use on any other pieces.

g) Alka Seltzer:

Dropping costume or inexpensive jewelry into a glass of fizzing Alka-Seltzer for a couple of minutes will help eliminate a dull look and add shine to your pieces.

h) Ammonia:

A solution made out of ½ cup clear ammonia and one cup of warm water can brighten up your gold and silver jewelry pieces. Simply allow your trinkets to soak for 10 minutes before
gently wiping with a soft cloth. Dry before wearing or storing. Do not use this remedy on jewelry with pearls or you will damage their delicate surface.

i) Candy Tin:

Don’t toss away your broken jewelry – it may find a use in the future. Perhaps you plan on fixing a few pieces. Keep all of these items in a safe place by storing in an empty candy tin.

j) Film Canister:

An empty film canister that once held 35mm film can be used to keep jewelry together when you take it off at the gym. Keep the canister in your gym bag and you should have no problem misplacing your rings and earrings.

k) Baking Soda:

To remove accumulated tarnish on silver jewelry, add two tablespoons of water to ¼ cup of baking soda to make a cleaning paste. Apply with a damp sponge and gently rub before rinsing and buffing dry.

l) Baking Soda and Vinegar:

Polish gold jewelry by covering the piece with a light coating of baking soda. Pour a bit of vinegar over the baking soda, and then rinse clean. Keep in mind that this method can loosen the glue and damage the finish on jewelry made with pearls and gemstones.

m) Beer:

You can use a small amount of beer (excluding dark ale) to polish gold jewelry. Use a soft cloth to gently rub the liquid over the piece. Use a clean cloth dry. Use this remedy on jewelry with no gemstones.

n) Club Soda:

Soak your diamonds, rubies, sapphires and emeralds in club soda to add shine. Let them soak overnight.

o) Denture Tablets:

If you want your diamond ring to sparkle like the first time you wore it, drop a denture tablet into a glass filled with one cup of water. Add your diamond pieces to the liquid and let it sit for a few minutes. When the jewelry is removed, rinse to reveal a revamped look.

p) Ketchup:

Tarnished silver jewelry responds to a treatment of ketchup. Dunk your piece into a small bowl filled with the condiment for a few minutes. Use an old toothbrush to scrub down the jewelry – making sure to get into all crevices. Rinse the jewelry clean, and dry.

q) Straw:

If you constantly have a problem with your favorite gold chain getting tangled or kinked, try sliding it down a straw when storing it. Cut the straw to fit if the chain is shorter than the straw.

r) Toothpaste:

Polish a diamond ring with an old toothbrush topped with a bit of non-gel toothpaste. Use a damp cloth to remove any residue.

s) Vinegar:

Create a mixture of ½ cup white vinegar and two tablespoons of baking soda to treat dull silver jewelry. Leave a treatment on for two to three hours before rinsing under cold water. Thoroughly dry the pieces with a soft cloth.

t) Vodka [2]:

When looking for a home remedy to clean your crystalline gemstones, a few drops of vodka can help. Dip a napkin in vodka and polish your diamond ring. Do not use vodka on other gemstones – just diamonds and emeralds.

u) Window Cleaner:

Spray on window cleaner and rub into the surface of metal and crystalline gemstones (like diamonds and rubies) to create an attractive shine. Avoid using this remedy on opaque or organic stones, such as pearls, coral, opal and turquoise – the cleaner can damage and discolor these gems.

v) Baking Soda and Hydrogen Peroxide:

To clean and add shine to gold and silver jewelry, make a paste out of baking soda and hydrogen peroxide. Gently rub onto your jewelry to remove dirt, grime and body oils.

Resources

[1] Five Minute Fixes by Reader’s Digest; pg. 274.
[2] Extraordinary Uses for Ordinary Things by Reader’s Digest; pg. 371.

What is Traveler’s Diarrhea?

Most people define “traveler’s diarrhea” as three or more unformed stools that occur within a 24 hour time period that affect an individual is traveling [1]. The illness is known by many different names – depending on the region you are traveling to. For example, it is called the “Delhi Belly” in India. For the most part, if you are visiting any developing country in Latin America, Africa, or Asia – you have a 30 to 50 percent chance of experiencing the effects of traveler’s diarrhea.

Causes and Symptoms

Traveler’ s diarrhea is often caused by coming in contact with contaminated food or water. The CDC (Center for Disease Control) estimates that up to 80% of cases of travelers’ diarrhea are caused by bacteria with the most common culprit being enterotoxigenic E. coli – one of six classes of enterovirulent E. coli. Viruses and parasitic infections could cause this type of diarrhea, but are far less likely that eating contaminated food.

If you get sick with traveler’s diarrhea, expect symptoms that include uncomfortable diarrhea, abdominal pain, cramps, gas, nausea, fatigue, loss of appetite, headache, vomiting, fever (usually under 101 degrees), and bloody stools. The most common symptom is watery diarrhea. Symptoms tend to last for two to four days with some unlucky travelers battling the effects for more than a week.

Traveler’s Diarrhea Home Remedies

Just when you thought your vacation was perfect, you start to feel a rumble in your stomach. What comes next could have you out of commission for a few days. To make the healing process much smoother, the following home remedies for traveler’s diarrhea can help:

a) Sugar, Salt and Baking Soda:

When you are in need of oral rehydration therapy, make a healing concoction out of four tablespoons sugar, ½ teaspoon salt, and ½ teaspoon baking soda added to one liter of water.

b) Bottled Water:

When traveling to a foreign country, bottled water will become your best friend. Do not drink tap water and avoid water delivered to your table in a glass when dining at a restaurant.

c) Pass on the Ice:

It could be the hottest day in Bankok, but if you sip on a drink with ice cubes to cool down – you could be ingesting bacteria. Freezing water does not kill bacteria. The ice cubes are made with the same tap water that you’ve been instructed to avoid. Also, ice cubes in an alcoholic beverage will also harbor bacteria from the tap water – the alcohol will not kill the germs.

d) Bland Foods:

It is important to gradually reintroduce bland foods into your diet when you have gotten your appetite back after a bout of traveler’s diarrhea. Recommendations include dry toast, soda crackers, rice, noodles, bananas, gelatin, soups, boiled potatoes, and cooked carrots.

e) Pepto:

It is suggested to use Pepto-Bismol (or its equivalent) when you need a quick fix for traveler’s diarrhea.

f) Limit Your Beverage Choice:

No matter how good that glass of fresh lemonade looks, you cannot be sure just where the water came from to make it. Usually, tea and coffee are safe because they are made with boiled water, but if you don’t want to take any chances – pass on water-based beverages.

g) Ginger Ale:

Flat ginger ale is known to calm a wave of nausea. It is suggested to sip the drink when you are suffering from the effects of traveler’s diarrhea. Make sure you are drinking ginger ale that you have opened yourself from a bottle.

h) Gatorade:

The electrolytes found in sports drinks (such as Gatorade and Powerade) are known to provide the body with potassium, sodium, and other benefits after a bout of vomiting and diarrhea. Sip on the drinks to feel better, as well as calm your stomach.

i) Apples:

Components in apples have the ability to heal the intestinal system. Try eating applesauce and baked apples when you are ready to transition into your regular diet.

j) Garlic:

There are antibiotic properties in garlic that helps eliminate bacteria from your body. The garlic protects the natural bacterial flora found in the intestine that can help you get better.

k) Hand Sanitizer:

Rub a bit of hand sanitizer over the cap of a soda or beer bottle before opening. This will prevent contact with germs that could linger on the mouth of a bottle that has been touched by dirty hands.

l) Sip Your Drinks:

No matter how parched you feel, it is better to frequent small drinks over gulping down your water – this will decrease the irritation in your gut.

m) Peppermint Tea:

A cup of peppermint tea can help soothe an irritate stomach battling the symptoms of traveler’s disease. If you still feel a little queasy, try a weak infusion of the tea.

n) Ginger Tea:

Sip on a cup of ginger tea to calm an irritated stomach fighting the symptoms of traveler’s diarrhea. Ginger is known for healing the digestive system.

o) Ease Into Solid Foods:

When you are ready to start eating your regular diet again, you must slowly reintroduce solid food into your repertoire. Bland foods that are easy to digest and swallow are preferred. Consider boiled potatoes, soft cereal, rice, and dry toast.

p) Clear Liquids:

To rehydrate your body after vomiting and diarrhea, it is suggested to drink clear fluids, such as apple juice and chicken broth. However, water is the best choice when you don’t want to aggravate your stomach.

q) Caraway Tea:

Treat traveler’s diarrhea by adding one teaspoon of caraway seeds to one cup of boiling water. Cover the blend and set aside for 10 minutes. After straining the ingredients, sip the tea throughout the day when you have an empty stomach.

r) Do Not Drink Alcohol:

Alcohol will only make your traveler’s diarrhea worse because it dries out your system and encourages further dehydration. You need to focus on drinking clear liquids that replenish the fluids in your body.

Resources

[1] http://www.medicinenet.com/travelers_diarrhea/article.htm

What are Fibroids?

Fibroids are muscular tumors that grow in the wall of the uterus (better known as the womb). In medical circles, this condition is referred to as “leiomyoma” or “myoma.” Fibroids can grow as a single tumor or many can develop in the uterus, ranging from the size of an apple seed to as large as a grapefruit. Almost all fibroids are benign – meaning they are not cancerous.

There are certain factors that can increase a woman’s risk of developing fibroids, which include [1]:

• Age – Age plays an important role, as the growths become more common as females get older (especially during the 30s and 40s and onto menopause). Following menopause, fibroids usually shrink.
• Family Tree – If you have a family member with fibroids, you face an increased risk.
• Ethnicity – For example, African-American women are more likely to develop fibroids than white women.
• Weight – Obese women are more susceptible to developing fibroids.
• Diet – There is a link between eating a lot of red meat and ham and a higher risk of fibroids.

Causes and Symptoms

No one knows for sure what causes fibroids. Researchers think that more than one factor could play a role, such a hormonal changes (associated with estrogen and progesterone levels) and genetics. Fibroids tend to run in the family. Doctors are also baffled as to why fibroids can grow and shrink at will. For instance, fibroids can rapidly grow during pregnancy – when hormone levels are high. They will also shrink as a woman enters menopause.

The majority of fibroids grow in the wall of the uterus, and they are categorized into three groups:

• Submucosal fibroids grow into the uterine cavity.
• Intramural fibroids grow within the wall of the uterus.
• Subserosal fibroids grow on the outside of the uterus.

Most fibroids do not cause any symptoms, but some women may still experience heavy bleeding during menstruation, painful periods, heaviness in pelvic region, enlargement of lower abdomen, frequent urination, painful sexual intercourse, lower back pain, pregnancy complications, and reproductive issues (such as infertility).

Fibroid Home Remedies

One of the ways to prevent the return of fibroids, as well as avoid surgery, is to embrace natural prevention and treatment plans, including the use of herbs [2]. In addition to using natural remedies without your own household, the following home remedies for fibroids are also quite effective:

a) Heating Pad:

Apply a heating pad to the lower abdomen to improve blood flow and ease pelvic pain associated with fibroids.

b) Knees Up:

To relieve back pressure associated with fibroids, try lying on your side and bringing your knees up to your chest.

c) Say ‘No’ to Tampons:

Instead of using tampons during your menstrual cycle, opt for sanitary pads.

d) Green Veggies:

Pile on the vegetables when eating meals to protect you from developing fibroids.

e) Exercise:

Embracing a routine exercise program can help control fibroids and the associated pain. An increased level of activity can help regulate ovulation, as this process seems to worsen when fibroids are present. The exercise encourages a better flow of blood.

f) Beans:

To fight fibroids, add a variety of beans to your diet. Pinto beans contain the phytoestrogen content that helps ease symptoms of fibroids. Other winners include kidney beans, black beans, mung beans, lima beans, fava beans, and split peas.

g) Whole Grain:

When you eat three or more servings of whole grains on a daily basis, you can reduce the size of fibroids.

h) Warm Bath:

A warm bath can help ease the pain associated with fibroids that can affect the pelvis. This remedy will also encourage improved blood circulation.

i) Pillow [3]:

To relieve fibroid pain, lie down with your legs elevated and place a pillow under your knees.

j) Soy:

Soybeans are proven to naturally lower estrogen levels with the help of two compounds called genistein and daidzein. These plant estrogens actually fill the spaces on cells where estrogen usually attaches. These phytoestrogens prevent your body’s own estrogen from reaching cells and causing problems, such as fibroids. You can also increase your intake by drinking soy milk and eating tofu.

k) Fish:

Eating fish on a frequent basis can help fight fibroids, as the fish oil found in cold-water species (like salmon, tuna, and mackerel) possess anti-inflammatory properties.

l) Sitz Bath:

To improve circulation to the pelvis, consider a sitz bath for your fibroid treatment. A sitz bath is a soak of the pelvic region in warm water. People have taken this type of bath in a regular bathtub with their knees bent. It is suggested to stay three minutes in hot water followed by 30 seconds of a cold treatment. This remedy should be repeated three consecutive times – five times per week to see the best results.

m) Foods to Avoid:

When suffering from fibroids, there are certain foods that you should avoid in order to remedy symptoms, such as conventional dairy and meat products. Food additives that are not good for fibromyalgia patients include caffeine, aspartame, trans fat and sugar.

n) Drinks to Avoid:

Caffeinated drinks, such as coffee and tea, are considered triggers of pain and symptoms for fibromyalgia patients. It is suggested to avoid such drinks, as well as drastically reduce your intake of alcoholic beverages.

o) Lay Off on the Perfume:

Strong perfumes can have an adverse effect on the symptoms of a fibromyalgia patient.

p) Hot Water Bottle:

Position a hot water bottle to your lower abdomen to encourage improved blood flow, which can help ease pelvic pain.

q) Castor Oil:

Warm castor oil packs placed on the belly are said to have an anti-inflammatory effect on the body. You can also assist in lymphatic drainage and enhance the effectiveness of medication when using castor oil as a treatment method.

r) Ginger:

Apply a ginger compress to your abdomen to relieve pain and help shrink fibroids. You can accomplish this by soaking a towel in hot ginger water.

s) Lower Estrogen Levels and Contact:

A reduction in exposure to estrogen can help tame fibroid development. For some people, that means avoided tampon that have been bleached with chlorine (which can mimic the bad effects of estrogen), find a different method of birth control other than taking the pill, and eating organically-raised products to avoid contact with estrogen-mimicking residues associated with some herbicides and pesticides.

Resources

[1] http://womenshealth.gov/publications/our-publications/fact-sheet/uterine-fibroids.cfm#d
[2] Herbs for Health and Healing by Kathi Keville; pg. 180.
[3] http://women.webmd.com/uterine-fibroids/uterine-fibroids-home-treatment

Car Cleaning Home Remedies

There is no need to collect bottle after bottle of car wash soap and wax when you need to give your vehicle the once over. There are plenty of home remedies for cleaning cars that you may want to get familiar with, including the following suggestions:

a) Spray Bottle:

Fill a spray bottle with windshield cleaner with ½ teaspoon of antifreeze to have an instant ice melter on hand at all times. This combination will melt the ice on your windshield and mirrors in the wintertime.

b) WD-40:

To remove pesky dead bugs from the grill of your car – spray a bit of WD-40 on the grill and hood before going for a drive and most of the bugs will slide right off. The few bugs that cling onto the hood of your car can be easily wiped off without damaging the finish to your vehicle.

c) Scented Soap [1]:

When your car freshener has lost its power, fill a mesh bag with your favorite bar of scented soap to create a deodorizer that you can hang from your rearview mirror.

d) Fabric Softener Sheets:

Place a fresh dryer sheet under each of your car seats to counteract some of the musty odors that can linger in a car.

e) Sock:

Handle the buff job on your car by using an old sock to add shine to your finish after waxing.

f) Vinegar:

When wiper blades get dirty, you can clean by wiping with undiluted white vinegar on a cloth or rag. Run the cloth down the full length of each blade one or two times.

g) Vinegar and Water:

A solution comprised of equal amounts of water and white vinegar can be used to remove salt residue left on car carpets during the wintertime. Sponge the mixture onto the carpeting and after a couple of minutes – use a cloth or paper towel to blot up.

h) Vinegar and Bread:

Deodorize a smelly car trunk by soaking a slice of white bread in white vinegar, and then leaving it in the car overnight. By morning, the odor should have disappeared.

i) Vegetable Oil or Cooking Spray:

You can clean brake dust (a fine black powder found on the tires) by applying a small amount of cooking spray or vegetable oil. After 10 minutes, wipe clean, and then repeat the application to prevent future buildup of brake dust.

j) Mayonnaise:

To get tar off of your car, apply mayonnaise over affected spaces and leave on for several minutes. Use a soft, clean rag to wipe off the residue. The remedy also works to remove pine sap off of the hood of cars.

k) Mustard:

Remove the smell of skunk from your car after running over the poor critter by adding one cup dry mustard onto a bucket of warm water. Mix well, and then splash on the tires, wheels, and underbody of the car.

l) Baking Soda:

To remove tar from the exterior of your car, make a paste out of baking soda and water, and then apply using a soft cloth. Allow the remedy to dry, and then rinse off with warm water.

m) Butter:

Rubbing butter or margarine onto sap drippings smeared on your car exterior can help remove the sticky mess. Use a soft cloth to apply and wipe over the paint job, and you will find the sap instantly comes off.

n) Hair Conditioner:

After washing your car, apply hair conditioner to the paint job, and wait five minutes before rinsing off. It will give your vehicle a waxy shine. You will also be able to better repel water during rainy days.

o) Aluminum Foil:

Remove rust from your chrome bumper by scrubbing with a shiny piece of crumpled aluminum foil that has been dipped in cola.

p) Steel Wool:

You can use a fine steel wool pad (the finest grade that is sold) to clean your whitewall tires.

q) Club Soda:

Fill a spray bottle with club soda to keep in the trunk of your car. The soda is excellent in removing bird droppings, grime, and bugs from your windshield. Simply spray on, wait a couple of minutes, and then let the wipers do the rest of the job. Club soda is also effective in removing stains for car carpets by soaking immediately with the soda, and then blotting until the stain has disappeared.

r) Cornstarch:

To get rid of grease spots on your carpet, sprinkle cornstarch on the stain and let stand overnight. Follow up with a vacuum in the morning.

s) Dish and Laundry Detergent:

A recipe for homemade car wash soap combines one cup liquid dish detergent and 12 tablespoons of powdered laundry detergent added to one large bucket of water.

t) A Quick Thorough Dry:

To avoid soap and water spots after washing your car, make sure to quickly dry. When you don’t remove large water droplets, they magnify the light of the sun, which can cause the paint to burn – this is what leaves behind spotting.

Resources

[1] Extraordinary Uses for Ordinary Things by Reader’s Digest; pg.307.

What are Fallen Arches?

The foot arch acts as a shock absorber, as it cushions the forces produced when you move around. The arch prevents the pressure from reaching your bones and joints. Fallen arches only offer limited shock absorption. In some cases, the foot is literally flat at the bottom and no support against shock takes place. The sole of the foot becomes flat when you suffer fallen arches. Because of this, you are more susceptible to developing other issues, such as pain in the ankles, knees and feet. Even your legs can feel the effects.

Causes and Symptoms

Over-compression of the arches during the steps you take can eventually lead to failure. Over time, the arches will collapse. One of the most common causes of fallen arches is wearing improper or worn out shoes because it increases the heavy impact that comes with running or walking. Other causes of fallen arches include being overweight, working a job that involves carrying heavy objects, and participating in certain sports (such as being a long jumper or cross country runner in track and field).

Fallen Arch Home Remedies

It’s no fun to endure constant pain or discomfort with every step. Fallen arches can really put a damper on everyday activities. To ease the pain and make life more bearable, consider some of the following home remedies for fallen arches:

a) Foot Massage:

While watching TV, administer a massage to the bottom of your feet to release some of the pain in your arch.

b) Tennis Ball:

To enjoy pain relief from the bottom of your foot, gently roll a tennis ball around the floor with the soles of your feet.

c) Water Bottle:

Combine the relief of heat and massage by gently rolling a 16-ounce soda bottle filled with warm water underneath painful arches.

d) Avoid High Heels:

High heel shoes place weight on the balls of the feet and delivers increased strain to your arches. The heel also forces your foot to work against its natural motions. When you wear flat shoes or walk barefoot, each of the muscles and tendons in your feet are engaged in a proper way. Stepping only on the balls of your feet can cause complex muscles and tendons in your foot to weaken. If you must choose a high heel, keep it wide and flatter. Stiletto heels are killer on feet with fallen arches.

e) Stretches:

Runners stretch and warm up for a reason, and you can do the same to reduce the arch pain that comes when you have a tight heel cord.

f) Wall Stretch:

A good exercise to do is stand about three feet from a wall while placing your hands on the wall. Lean towards the wall and bring one foot forward and bend the knee so that the calf muscles of the other leg stretch. Hold the position for 20 to 30 seconds, and then switch legs to repeat the stretching. Continue on with the alternating of legs until you have completed five times on each side. This is an especially helpful stretch for women that spend a lot of time in heels.

g) Measure Your Foot:

Every time you buy new shoes, it is recommended to measure your foot. Don’t always assume that you are the same size foot after your arches have fallen. Your feet may get longer or wider as a result.

h) Opt for Shoes that Tie:

Lace-up shoes provide more support and comfort for people with fallen arches.

i) Shoes to Avoid:

If you are looking for shoes that cause the least amount of pain for fallen arches, pass on the loafers, pumps and slip-ons.

j) Don’t Wear Worn Shoes:

Shoes that are worn can cause knee or hip pain for people with fallen arches because they affect the walking stride of the wearer. When heels are worn down, replace or repair the shoe or boot.

k) Towel:

To strengthen your fallen arches, lay a towel flat on the ground. Stand on it in your bare feet, and grip the towel with your toes. Pull the gripped section slightly off the floor, and hold for five to 10 seconds. After you release, repeat the exercise 10 to 12 times a day.

l) Paper:

When sitting in a chair, place a large sheet of paper on the floor in front of you. While resting your heels on the paper, use only your toes to roll the paper into a ball. After this exercise, massage your arches to relieve any cramping.

m) Spread Your Toes:

To strengthen your feet when your arches have fallen, spread out your toes as wide as possible, and hold for ten seconds. Point with your toes, and then alternate with a flexing motion. Repeat both exercises ten times daily with each foot to see results.

Resources

What is Duct Tape?

Duct tape is an adhesive tape made out of cloth mesh that is coated with a waterproof material [1]. It is a polyethylene coating that makes the tape waterproof. The history of duct tape is traced back to the Second World War, where it helped the United States military repair the windshields of their Jeeps and sealing ammunition cases. For many years, the tape was silver, but now comes in many different colors that have found uses beyond the sealing of heating and air-conditioning ducts.

Duct Tape Home Remedies

The next time you find something broken, you never know when the waterproof duct tape will become a lifesaver, money saver, and timesaver. For example, you can use the tape to avoid tossing away one of your favorite belongings or spending precious money on a replacement. To get familiar with home remedies using duct tape, consider some of the following suggestions:

a) Temporary Band-Aid:

When you’ve run out of Band-Aids, cover your wound with paper towel and hold in place with a piece of duct tape.

b) Reseal Chips:

Don’t let your chips get stale when you can easily keep a bag closed by sealing with a piece of duct tape. Fold over the bag before applying the tape.

c) Extra Key Holder:

If you have a habit of getting locked out of your car, use duct tape to affix an extra key to the undercarriage of your car.

d) Lint Remover [2]:

Wrap your hand with a length of duct tape (sticky side out) and roll the tape against your clothing in a rocking motion to remove stray hairs and lint from your clothing. Do not use a wiping motion or you risk damaging the nap.

e) Reinforce Book Binding:

To repair broken book binding, apply duct tape by running it down the length of the spine. You can cut shorter pieces to run perpendicular for extra reinforcement.

f) Splinter Removal:

You can use a small piece of duct tape to remove a splinter – all you have to do is gently press to affected skin.

g) Repair Photo Frame:

When the foldout leg of a photo frame doesn’t want to cooperate any longer, use duct tape to reattach the leg and hold the frame upright.

h) Holiday Wrapping:

When you’ve run out of wrapping paper, press duct tape directly to the gift box. If you have different colors – create varying designs by alternating colors.

i) A Quick Hem:

When you don’t have time to bring out the sewing kit to hem your long pants, simply fold them up and hold in place with duct tape. This is also a great method for pinpointing a desired length before hemming your pants.

j) Fly Killer:

Take control over your household fly population by taping five to ten pieces of duct tape to making a ring with the sticky side out. Hang the tape from the ceiling close to any overhead lights. When insects fly by or land, they will become stuck. After a while, toss away the tape and repeat if needed.

k) Seal Window Leaks:

If the seal around your window has broken and is creating an unpleasant sound as you drive – use duct tape as a patch until you have time to take it to a shop.

l) Fix a Vacuum Bag:

When your disposable vacuum cleaner bag is full and you don’t have replacement nearby, try using duct tape as a quick fix. Remove the bag and cut a slit straight down the middle. Empty the contents into the trash, and then pinch the sides together at the slit and fold over. Tape the fold with a good amount of duct tape. The bag will hold a little less, but you can still vacuum until you get replacement bags.

m) Make a Wallet:

The waterproofed durability of duct tape can be made into a fashionable wallet that helps you save money.

n) Trash Can Repair:

You don’t have to trash your plastic trash can when it has suffered a crack or split along the sides. Duct tape is strong enough to seal cracks both inside and outside. The flexibility of the tape is also good at maneuvering around curves and ridged surfaces.

o) Glass Protection:

A broken window can become a dangerous disaster if not quickly cleaned up. Before removing the window glass, crisscross the pane with duct tape to hold all of the shards in place.

p) Toilet Seat Fix:

If your toilet seat has cracked or is broken, quick fix the damage by wrapping the break until you can get a replacement.

Resources

[1] http://www.answers.com/topic/duct-tape
[2] Extraordinary Uses for Ordinary Things by Reader’s Digest; pg.153.

Common Car Issues

As a car owner, you’re going to have to prepare yourself to deal with some of the following common car problems:

• Smelly odors (like cigarette smell or musty car seats)
• Stains, spills, scratches and rust
• In need of a car wash
• Dirty tires
• Foggy, frosty or dirty windows and mirrors
• Dead battery and corroded car parts
• Dullness (on plastic dashboard parts and leather seats)

Car Home Remedies

From removing a stain in the floor mats to treating your battery terminals to a bit of tender loving care, the following home remedies for cars can help you save money, time and energy for common dilemmas:

a) Baking Soda:

Use a soft cloth to apply a paste of baking soda and water to the exterior of your car to remove tar. After the remedy has dried, rinse off with warm water. You can use this same thick paste to clean the corrosion that builds up on battery terminals. Leave on the remedy for 10 to 15 minutes, and then wash off.

b) Butter:

If you rub butter or margarine onto sap that has fallen on your car, you can remove the sticky mess with ease. Use a soft cloth to apply and wipe off.

c) Carpet:

When your car floor mats get to grungy to use, replace with a carpet sample or old house carpet that you’ve cut into the shape of a replacement mat.

d) Aluminum Foil:

Dip a shiny piece of crumpled aluminum foil in cola soda so that you can scrub away any rust that has developed on a chrome bumper.

e) Steel Wool:

To clean your whitewall tires, opt for the finest steel wool in the form of a pad.

f) Iron-On Patch:

When you’ve burned a hole into your car seat or have torn the material, use an iron-on patch to mend the upholstery. Use a couple of straight pins to hold the patch in place while you iron.

g) Petroleum Jelly:

Wipe down the battery posts with petroleum jelly once every two months to prolong the life of your battery.

h) Cola Soda:

Remove corrosion from battery terminals by pouring a can of cola over the terminals, and let it sit for 30 minutes before wiping clean.

i) Baby Oil:

Remove scuff marks and scratches from your odometer by rubbing a bit of baby oil into the dashboard plastic. You can also rejuvenate and protect leather seats by applying a thin layer of the baby oil. Let dry to prevent drying out and cracking of the leather.

j) Club Soda:

Keeping a spray bottle filled with club soda in the trunk of your car can come in pretty handy. The liquid is effective in removing bird droppings, dirt, and bugs from the windshield. Just spray on, and turn on the wipers to clean after waiting a few minutes.

k) Aspirin:

To revive a dead battery without the help of jumper cables, drop a few aspirin tablets into the battery. The acid in the headache fighter provides just enough of a charge to get you to the nearest service station [1].

l) Towels:

If the forecast says ice and snow are on the way, make getting out quicker by placing two old bath towels across the windshield. When it’s time to drive, just pull off the towels and there will be no snow or ice to remove.

m) Plastic Bags:

When parking your car outside, avoid the time-consuming task of scraping ice and wiping away snow from the side mirrors and windshield wipers by wrapping in old plastic bags.

n) Hubcap:

If you are stuck in the snow or mud and have no way to dig yourself out, you can actually use your hubcap as a way to remove debris and free your wheel.

o) Floor Mats:

When your car is stuck in an icy patch and the wheels could use a little extra traction, take out the car floor mat and place under the tire. Drive over the mats and when you are in a same place, retrieve the mats and continue on your journey.

p) Hair Conditioner:

Follow up a car wash with an application of hair conditioner. Leave the remedy on for five minutes, and then rinse off to reveal a just-waxed look. On rainy days, this treatment will also help repel water better.

q) Nail Polish [2]:

If you feel the indentation of a scratch on your car’s finish (after rubbing your finger over the mark), you can use nail polish to cover the scratch. This means that the paint layer has been damaged – buffing and polishing will not help. You must paint over the mark to make it less visible. Find a nail polish that matches the color of your finish and carefully paint over the scratch. Let the polish dry, and you should see a great difference. If you make a mistake during the process, use a Q-tip dipped in a little nail polish remover as a touch up.

r) Rubbing Alcohol:

Clean dirty windshield wipers by swiping the blades with a paper towel soaked in rubbing alcohol. You can also rub in a small amount of rubbing alcohol with your fingertips into droplets of sap to remove from your car’s paint finish.

s) Cornstarch:

Clean dirty windows by applying a mixture of one tablespoon of cornstarch added to ½ gallon of warm water. After washing, dry with a soft cloth.

t) Vegetable Oil or Cooking Spray:

Sometimes, your car tires become covered in brake dust – a fine, black powder. When you apply a little bit of cooking spray or vegetable oil, you can wipe clean after 10 minutes. After this treatment, spray or apply once more to reduce the amount of brake dust that gathers next time.

u) Mayonnaise:

When you need to remove tar or pine sap off of your car, apply mayonnaise to affected areas. Leave the mayo on for several minutes, and then wipe off with a soft, clean rag.

v) Spray Bottle:

To keep ice from lingering on your windshield and mirrors in the winter months, store a spray bottle in your trunk that is filled with windshield cleaner with ½ teaspoon of antifreeze. This combination will help melt the ice on windshields, windows, and mirrors.

w) WD-40:

Remove the bodies of insect causalities from the grill of your car by spraying a small amount of WD-40 on the grill and hood before taking to the road again. Most of the bugs will slide off, and the ones that do not are much easier to wipe away without damaging your paint job. You can also use WD-40 to solve a squeaky door problem.

x) Soap:

Did you know that you can fill a mesh bag with a scented soap to create a homemade freshener that hangs from the rearview mirror?

y) Cat Litter:

To absorb oil leaked by your car, put the absorbent qualities of kitty litter to good use. Pour the basic, inexpensive kind over the oil and the liquid should be soaked up within one hour. To remove the litter, sweep up into a dustpan and toss in the trash.

z) Dryer Sheets:

Place unused fabric softener sheets under all of your car seats to help neutralize the musty odors that can develop in a car. This remedy is also effective in counteract cigarette smoke smells.

aa) Vinegar:

To clean dirty wiper blades, wipe with a cloth or rag dampened with undiluted white vinegar. Run the cloth down the full length of the blades – one to two times each.

bb) Vinegar and Water:

A solution of one part water and three parts white vinegar can be used to keep car windows from frosting up during cold winter months. Wipe or spray the outsides of your windows to keep away the frost. Each coating can last up to several weeks.

cc) Vinegar and Credit Card:

Vinegar can also be used to remove stubborn bumper stickers. Saturate the sticker with undiluted distilled vinegar for 10 to 15 minutes. Use an expired credit card to scrape off the residue. This remedy can also be used to remove decals from your back windshield.

dd) Socks:

When looking for something to buff the wax on your car, use a large old sock.

Resources

[1] Who Knew? Almanac by Bruce Lubin and Jeanne Bossolina-Lubin; pg. 22.
[2] Five Minute Fixes by Reader’s Digest; pg. 338-339.

Cat Deterrent Home Remedies

Not everyone is a cat lover and sometimes, you just need a way to keep felines out of your yard, garden, and other outdoor spaces. Luckily, there are safe ways to send cats running in the opposite direction when you use the following home remedies for cat deterrents:

a) Coffee Grounds and Orange Peels [1]:

Keep cats out of your garden by spreading a mix of orange peels and used coffee grounds around your plants. The mix also doubles as a good fertilizer.

b) Mothballs:

Tossing old mothballs around your garden and flowerbeds will help keep cats and other critters away – they do not like the smell.

c) Red Pepper:

If you have a cat that likes to scratch up all of your furniture, try sprinkling ground red pepper on a strip of tape and attach it to the places that your cats like to claw. They do not like the smell and will avoid these areas like the plague.

d) Vinegar:

Deter kitty scratching or keep them from entering off-limits rooms, sprinkle undiluted white vinegar around the area or object you’d like left alone. Vinegar is not a cat’s favorite scent, so they will avoid visiting these locations. You can also prevent cats from using a child’s sandbox as their litter box by pouring vinegar around the box. To make sure no accidents occur, reapply every two months.

e) Aluminum Foil:

Keep a cat from clawing at your furniture by wrapping chair legs and other parts with aluminum foil. They do not like the feel of the material on their claws.

f) Hot Sauce:

Protect your woodwork by deterring cat scratching with a little bit of hot sauce rubbed into the material. Buff the sauce well and watch as your cat avoids the wood.

g) Double-Sided Tape:

Wrap the legs of your favorite chairs with double-sided tape to keep cats from scratching at your furniture. Since they don’t like the way the tape feels on their claws, they will stop their destructive ways – on that piece of furniture at least. Also place the tape on places you don’t want your cat walking around or on, such as the kitchen countertop.

h) Wheatgrass:

Deter your cat from eating your plants by adding potted wheatgrass for your cat to nibble on. Place close to your plants, which your pet will prefer over the greenery you’d like to protect.

i) Spray Water Bottle:

To deter bad cat behavior, have a spray bottle filled with water that you can spritz in their face when they do something naughty.

j) Compressed Air:

If you have a can of compressed air (the kind used to clean computer keyboards), use to stop a cat from doing something bad. Felines do not like the feeling of air on their faces [2].

k) Laser Pointer:

Deter destructive behavior by keeping your cat mentally and physically fit with stimulation. A laser pointer is an effective choice. Shine the red dot light on your wall and your cat will chase it around.

l) Wire:

To protect your garden from invading cats, spread a roll of wire across the entry points to your fruits and vegetables, and spray the perimeter with a solution of boiled orange peels.

m) Noisy Soda Cans:

Cats aren’t fond of loud, rattling noises that startle them. You can use this to your advantage for a feline that likes to dance on top of your countertops. Place a few coins or beans in a couple of soda cans, tie them together, and line them up along the edge of the counter. When the cat jumps up, he or she will knock down the cans – thus sending them running in the opposite direction.

n) Petroleum Jelly:

To keep mischievous cats from climbing on birdhouse poles, spread petroleum jelly (like Vaseline) on the pole.

Resources

[1] Extraordinary Uses for Ordinary Things by Reader’s Digest; pg. 135.
[2] Who Knew? Almanac by Bruce Lubin and Jeanne Bossolina-Lubin; pg. 544.

Car Tire Home Remedies

Who would have thought that items found in your kitchen cabinets or refrigerator could come in handy when you needed to clean the tires on your car? Some home remedies for car tires will even add a shine and make whitewalls glow. To explore your options, consider some of the suggestions below:

a) Mustard[1]:

To get rid of the smell of skunk roadkill, add one cup of mustard powder to a bucket of warm water. Mix the ingredients well, and then splash it on your tires, wheels and the underbody of the car to eliminate the very unpleasant odor.

b) Cooking Spray or Vegetable Oil:

To remove the fine, black powder that you find on your car tires (brake dust), apply a small amount of cooking spray or vegetable oil. Leave on the oil for 10 minutes, and then wipe off. Spray or apply once again when finished to reduce the amount of dust that collects in the future.

c) Tube Sock:

When you need something to help you shine up the tires, use a tube soak for buffing.

d) Mayonnaise:

To remove tar and pine sap from the tires of your car, apply mayonnaise and leave on for a couple of minutes. With a soft, clean rag, wipe off the residue.

e) Steel Wool Pads:

To clean your whitewall tires, use the finest steel wool pad you can find.

f) Pair of Socks:

To make changing a car tire a less messy experience, store a pair of old socks in the trunk to put over your hands. This will prevent getting some of the grime, oil and mud on your hands as you fix your tire.

g) Garden Hose:

Before grimy mud has a chance to become a caked-on disaster, spray your tires with the garden hose to prevent an unattractive buildup.

h) Borax, Liquid Soap and Bleach:

To create a homemade tire cleaner, you can mix together Borax, liquid soap (with a vegetable base), lemon oil and bleach. The bleach will help whiten the letters and stripes on the tire. The liquid soap (like Murphy’s oil soap) adds shine to the tire. Cover the tires in the mixture. Use a washcloth to apply the solution to the cracks and crevices of the hubcaps. Don’t forget to thoroughly rinse the tires to make sure the soap residue is removed. It is suggested to follow this remedy on a weekly basis to protect your tires from the damage that salt and sand can cause.

i) Motor Oil:

Some people have applied a coating of motor oil to the sides of their tires to make them shine. When using this remedy, be very careful that you do not get the oil into the treads or you could interfere with the tire’s ability to grip the surface of the road.

j) Prewash is Important:

Before applying any homemade tire cleaners, it is important to prewash your tires for the best results. First, rinse off the tires using a hose, and then use a scrub brush with an abrasive agent (like baking soda) to wash the tires. Start at the top and then use a use a clockwise motion until the entire tire is covered with a cleansing foam. Rinse and then follow up with your homemade remedy for car tires.

k) Olive Oil and Lemon Juice:

Add two parts of olive oil and one part lemon juice to a spray bottle to make a remedy that add shine to your car tires. Rub the treatment into the tires using a clean cloth, and buff off any excess with a different clean cloth.

Resources

[1] Extraordinary Uses for Ordinary Things by Reader’s Digest; pg. 216.