How to Use Black Cohosh for Menopause

How to Use Black Cohosh for Menopause



Black cohosh, "Actaea racemosa," has a history of being effective for gynecological problems. First used by Native Americans, it has a long history of human use. Scientific studies are being done to try to prove what folk medicine has claimed for years -- that black cohosh helps alleviate menopause symptoms such as hot flashes and night sweats.









1


Speak with your primary care provider. Your doctor can perform tests to ensure that menopause is the correct diagnoses and not another disease. Ask the doctor about taking black cohosh.





2


Find a reliable source for black cohosh supplements.





3


Take the recommended daily dosage. Forty milligrams twice a day is the recommended dosage. Some studies have shown that twenty milligrams twice daily may be as effective as well.





4


Cycle your black cohosh for six months and then take one month off. Continue this as long as menopausal symptoms persist.





5


Inform your health care provider of any positive results or side effects. It is important to note either of these in your medical record.








Tips & Warnings










A German chemist has produced Remifemin. This was bought out and now marketed by Smith Kline. It is a standardized from of black cohosh.








Black cohosh is contraindicated for women who are pregnant or breast feeding. Women who suffer from high blood pressure should not take black cohosh.








Side effects are rare but may include headache, nausea, vomiting and other gastric discomfort. Inform your health care provider if you have any of these symptoms.



http://www.ehow.com/how_2089593_use-black-cohosh-menopause.html

How to Use Bergamot in Aromatherapy

How to Use Bergamot in Aromatherapy



Aromatherapy is an ancient practice
dating
back to the early Egyptians. Its uses are affiliated with the second chakra, the sacrum. Traditional aromatherapy uses oil of bergamot to create both a more soothing and more enlivened atmosphere. Here's what you can do with bergamot.







Things You'll Need:





Almond oil base




Bergamot oil




Coriander oil




Jasmine oil




Rose oil




Sandalwood oil









1


Increase the romance with your partner by giving a stimulating message with a mixture of 2 drops bergamot oil, 2 drops coriander oil, 6 drops jasmine oil, 4 drops rose oil and 2 drops sandalwood oil. Mix the essential oils in 2 tbs. almond oil as the base.





2


Place a mixture of lemon, lime, bergamot or grapefruit oils in the hallway, so that the scent greets visitors. The aroma will welcome them and create a warmer, more genial visit.





3


Inhale the odors of bergamot to reduce outbreaks of acne and help clear those already in progress. Put 5 to 10 drops of bergamot oil in a bowl of steaming water. Place a towel over your head and the bowl to trap the steam. Inhale for a few minutes.





4


Relieve stress by adding 6 to 10 drops of bergamot oil to the bathtub and soaking for about 20 minutes. The bergamot is absorbed through the skin and also inhaled.





5


Reduce anxiety and depression by keeping the scent of bergamot in the area of the depressed or anxious person.





6


Aid digestion by inhaling the scent bergamot, and use it to soothe the lungs, too.








Tips & Warnings










Be careful if you are a sun worshiper. Bergamot is phototoxic, which means its use can make you sensitive to the sun if applied too heavily.



http://www.ehow.com/how_2095621_bergamot-aromatherapy.html

How to Use a Vaporizer for Chest Congestion

How to Use a Vaporizer for Chest Congestion



When you or your loved one develops chest congestion it can be scary, especially when the congestion makes it hard to breathe. Vaporizers are effective at breaking up chest congestion. Using a vaporizer can shorten the length of an illness and may prevent a common cold from becoming more serious.







Things You'll Need:





Vaporizer




Towel




1/2 tsp salt




1/2 tsp baking soda









1


Fold a towel in quarters and place it on the floor 2 feet from the bed of the sick person.





2


Fill the vaporizer with water up to the fill line.





3


Add salt and baking soda to the water.





4


Stir until salt and baking soda are dissolved.





5


Place the vaporizer on the towel and plug it in.





6


Inhale the steam continuously for several hours to express phlegm.





7


Repeat as needed until congestion is gone.








Tips & Warnings










Vaporizers come in cool mist and hot steam models. Both types are effective. A cool misting model is useful in households with
children
as it will eliminate the possibility of scalding.








Select a model with an automatic shut-off feature to prevent electric shorts.








Salt and baking soda will harden your water, thereby coaxing your vaporizer to emit more steam. The saline mist will also help dry out mucous membranes, preventing additional congestion.








Do not leave an electric unattended for prolonged periods of time.








The amount of steam emitted by a vaporizer varies by the hardness of your water. You may find the time it takes your vaporizer to consume a tank of water differs dramatically from the manufacturer's statement. Monitor your vaporizer closely until you know how long it takes to consume a full tank of water.



http://www.ehow.com/how_2068293_use-vaporizer-chest-congestion.html

How to Use a Smudge Stick

How to Use a Smudge Stick



Smudging actively changes and cleanses negative energy to create a natural and positive, healing energy and can be used to enhance the positive energies in your environment. Smudge sticks are often used in Native American and Celtic traditions, but can be used personally in your home as well.









1


Light the smudge stick so that it smolders. You do not want an open flame. Some people smudge using only their hands, while others use feathers to help push the smoke and wash a room, object or body. It is common to use a shell or clay bowl to catch the ashes.





2


Smudge anything and everything that wants or needs it. You can smudge your own body, your home and your personal possessions. If willing, you can smudge the people that live with you, or even your pets.





3


Keep a regular smudging schedule to keep your energy clean and pure. Some people like to use a smudge stick before and after a deep house cleaning. Use the smudge stick before to help rid the home of unwanted energy along with the dust and dirt, and afterwards to attract and fill the home with positive healing energy.





4


Focus your energy and your thoughts on the task at hand. Ask for the negative energy to leave and for the positive healing energy to enter. Because the materials of your smudge stick are gifts from the Earth, always ask permission before burning, and give thanks after smudging.





5


Burn a smudge stick before a ritual, ceremony or prayer to prepare and open your body's energy field and help you focus your spiritual energy for divine interpretation.





6


Cleanse your body's energy when you are ill, depressed or without energy. Smudging can help you remove negative energy and emotions that are bringing you down, and can help you improve your state of being by stimulating positive energy.





7


Leave a window or door open when smudging a house to allow the negative energy to leave easily.


http://www.ehow.com/how_2085853_use-smudge-stick.html

How to Take Hawthorne for Health

How to Take Hawthorne for Health



Hawthorne (Crategus oxyacantha) is also known as mayflower, whitethorn and thornapple. It is a small thorny tree in the rose family that is found in Europe, North Africa and western Asia. It has red or white berries that are used medicinally. The following steps will help you decide whether or not to take this herbal supplement.









1


Read about the historical uses of hawthorne. Nicholas Culpepper recommended it in the 17th century as a remedy for congestive heart failure and kidney stones.





2


Look at the modern uses of hawthorne. It is used to enhance circulation, lower blood pressure and reduce cholesterol. Large amounts may cause sedation and dizziness.





3


Consider the results from modern scientific testing of Hawthorne. A number of clinical studies show Hawthorne to be effective in the treatment of congestive heart failure.





4


Take hawthorne only with a physician's approval if you have angina or cardiac arrhythmia, are pregnant or nursing. The bioflavonoids in Hawthorne may increase the effect of digitalis and other blood-thinning medication.





5


Take no more than the recommended dosage. Hawthorne extract is commonly standardized at 1.8 percent flavonoids and taken as two 300 mg capsules per day. A tea also may be prepared with two teaspoons of crushed berries per cup of boiling water. Drink no more than two cups per day.


http://www.ehow.com/how_2068080_take-hawthorne-health.html

How to Shop Clothing Sales

How to Shop Clothing Sales



If you love buying nice clothes but don't have the budget to afford the most expensive brands, don't despair. Just plan ahead to shop clothing sales so you can find the very best deals.









Step
1



Ask a salesperson when the store does its markdowns and sales. Mark the information on your calendar so you won't forget.




Step
2



Sign up to receive store circulars so you can find the best buys easily.




Step
3



Request email notifications to help you stay abreast of specials and promotions.




Step
4



Shop online at your favorite store's sites. Sometimes you can get better buys over the Internet.




Step
5



Shop off-season. You can get the best markdown when you buy things that have been in the store for a while.




Step
6



Be creative. If you find a dress you love that is drastically marked down but it's a size too big, consider having a tailor take it in for a custom fit.




Step
7



Realize that shopping sales takes some patience. Wear comfortable shoes and be prepared to vie with other shoppers for the best deals.




Step
8



Consider opening up a store credit card to receive an additional discount off an item's final price.




Step
9



Shop often. If you become familiar with a store's merchandise and stop in on a regular basis, you may get the styles you love as soon as they are marked down.




Step
10



Become friendly with the store manager. You can ask if he or she will call to tell you when an item you are watching has the price reduced.







Tips & Warnings









Browse through your local paper for coupons at local department stores.








Arrive early on sale days to get the best selection.








Don't let a good price be the deciding factor on a clothing purchase. Make sure you only buy things you really love and will wear.



http://www.ehow.com/how_2149031_shop-clothing-sales.html

How to Shop at Thrift Stores

How to Shop at Thrift Stores



Shopping at
thrift
stores


is like hunting for treasure, it requires some patience but can be very rewarding. I learned from my mother and have honed the skill to where it does not require much of my time to do and I have a closet full of brand name clothing and accessories to show for it. Here are some tips that, if put into practice, can make you a pro (and a well-dressed one at that!).







Things You'll Need:





the internet or local telephone book



comfortable shoes









Step
1



If you don't know where there is a thrift store in your neighborhood, do some homework before setting out. Look in your local yellow pages under "Thrift Shops" or search online for thrift stores in your city. (See resources below).




Step
2



Before you go out, it's also a good idea to take stock and have an idea of items you could use or would like to find, for example: black slacks, cocktail dress, pencil skirts, etc.




Step
3



Once you get to the store, begin with a rack where you see the kind of items on your wish list. Scan the rack for fabrics and colors that interest you and don't bother looking at items in colors you would never wear. Having this kind of focus helps prevent fatigue and discouragement.




Step
4



Whenever you sight something that may be of interest to you, check the size and brand labels.




Step
5



If you are still interested, check it thoroughly for imperfections such as holes or stains. If you find any of these imperfections, you will then have to decide whether you still want the items. Is it something that can easily be fixed? Be totally honest with yourself! If you know you are way too busy (or a hopeless procrastinator) don't buy something that is just going to sit in your closet for years waiting to be fixed, just move on.




Step
6



Once you have checked out any areas of the store that were of interest to you, make your way to the fitting room. It's important to try things on, if possible, at thrift stores since you may not be able to return the items. Remember, the object is not to waste money on items that may ultimately not fit, no matter how inexpensive they are.




Step
7



Make your purchases wisely and you will find that the kinds of clothing you find at thrift stores can be at times the most lasting additions to your wardrobe.







Tips & Warnings









Please note: If you are uncomfortable using things that were previously owned, many thrift stores get overstock donations and there are many articles that still have tags on them that can be found, as well.



http://www.ehow.com/how_2217942_shop-thrift-stores.html

How to Shop at the Gap

How to Shop at the Gap



Clothing shoppers appreciate The Gap Inc. for its clothing basics and affordable fashion separates. The Gap is a great place to shop for men, women and kids clothes. The Gap carries fun toddler clothing and adorable

baby


classics. Follow these tips to shopping at the Gap.









Step
1



Keep a running shopping list to help you remember everything you need to buy at the Gap. Are your husband's Gap khakis ready for replacement? Is your mom's birthday coming up? Do the kids need school shirts? Put them on your Gap shopping list.




Step
2



Make a budget or give yourself some spending parameters-some shoppers say the Gap is so enticing, consumers spend more than they planned. How can you help it, when everything at the GAP is so cute?




Step
3



Bring
children
to try on their new Gap clothes to assure a proper fit. Another option is to measure them and consult Gap size charts, available in the store and online.




Step
4



Browse the GAP website to look for hard-to-find sizes, bargains and new items. Online shopping is a convenient way to buy GAP clothes and returns can be made my mail or at GAP stores.




Step
5



Stock up on classic everyday basics such as khakis, jeans, career shirts, socks,

T-shirts


and school clothing.




Step
6



Find holiday portraits outfits for kids and dressy togs for special occasions. Look for cashmere sweaters for men and ladies.




Step
7



Sign up online to receive Gap coupons and notices of upcoming sales. You'll also get to preview the new seasonal Gap clothing before going to the store.


http://www.ehow.com/how_2104604_shop-gap.html

How to Shop at Old Navy

How to Shop at Old Navy



Old Navy offers bargain prices on trendy clothing for the whole family. Owned by GAP, Inc, shoppers know Old Navy for fun styles and a good selection. Old Navy devotees can get their shopping fix in many stores and outlets across the country as well as online.









1


Get into the retro theme. Old Navy decorates its stores in a retro theme with classic trucks and colors and styles that are a throwback to decades ago. Get into a groovy mood when you get to the store. Make the most of your shopping trip-enjoy yourself.




2


Find basics for the men in your life. In the summer, look for cargo shorts, swim trunks, khakis and Old navy's classic ringer tees. In cooler months, stock up on comfy cords, denim jeans and casual work shirts.




3


Look for fashionable separates for women. Expect to see career trousers, knit tops, cable-knit cardigans, baby doll tops, trendy denim skirts and jeans, ballet flats and v-neck sweaters at Old Navy.




4


Buy Old Navy baby gifts. Look for their preemie clothes for
newborns
up to 7 pounds, infant gift sets, basic bodysuits, sleep sets and one-piece baby clothes.




5


Shop for kids' clothes at Old Navy. You'll find boys polo shirts, athletic pants, jeans, rugby shirts and cargo pants, and girls dresses, hoodies, flounce tops and flair pants.




6


Check out the accessories and basics such as socks and underwear. Kids' socks are a good stock-up item at Old Navy.




7


Browse sale and clearance racks for good deals-at the end of each season, Old Navy slashes prices on the older inventory. Look for prices that end in .97 to find the best deals.




8


Budget enough time for your shopping trip to Old Navy. Looking at everything at Old Navy can be distracting and trying on clothes always takes more time than you think.


http://www.ehow.com/how_2096079_shop-old-navy.html

How to Shop at Off Price Stores

How to Shop at Off Price Stores



Do you love the thrill of scoring designer clothes at a bargain? Then off-price shopping is probably perfect for you! If you scour the racks at these discount stores, you are sure to find things you love at a fraction of the full retail cost.







Things You'll Need:





Wrap dress



Tank top



Tights



Flats



Large tote bag









Step
1



Set aside at least a few hours for your shopping trip so you will have time to go through all of the racks. Plan to visit just one or two stores at a time, so you can become familiar with their merchandise.




Step
2



Frequent a range of discount and outlet stores like TJMaxx, Marshalls, Off Fifth, Nordstrom's Rack, Neiman Marcus, Last Call and Filene's Basement. Realize that these places are hit and miss. They may have nothing you like one week, and lots of great stuff another. Therefore, you have to check back often to find the best items and at the right prices.




Step
3



Become familiar with the current fashion trends, colors and shapes that are being sold at high end department stores so you will know what sale items to look for, and which ones are already out of
date
. Generally, try to avoid particularly trendy pieces and stick to classics that you can wear for years to come.




Step
4



Know the names of top designers, to recognize their clothes labels at off-price stores. If you have a general idea of what their merchandise retails for full-price, you will know a great deal when you see it and won't hesitate to buy.




Step
5



Purchase those items you love right away, as the merchandise at many off-price stores rotates quickly as people grab things up. Therefore, you might be sorry if you wait.




Step
6



Check the sale racks often, as returns come in on a regular basis and you may find something great.




Step
7



Carry a large tote bag to hold your purchases if you plan to visit several stores at a time.







Tips & Warnings









Wear clothes that will make it easy to try things on. A wrap dress is always a good bet. Pair it with tights or leggings so if no fitting room is available, you can slip a pair of pants or skirt on underneath to check the size.








Plan shoes that are easy to slip off.








Shop off-season to get the best buys.








Visit your favorite off-price stores at least once or twice a week to find the best merchandise as soon as it arrives.








Beware of items that are ripped or otherwise damaged. Always check over the merchandise carefully. Realize that some things are easy fixes, while others may not be worth the effort and expense.



http://www.ehow.com/how_2217979_shop-off-price-stores.html

How to Shop at Consignment Stores

How to Shop at Consignment Stores



Consignment stores offer high-quality contemporary, designer and sometimes vintage clothing, shoes and accessories. Since the shop usually shares the proceeds of a sale with the original owner, prices tend to be higher than vintage and thrift stores.







Things You'll Need:





Vintage Clothes



Vintage Shoes



Phone Directories



Vintage Jewelry









Step
1



Shop regularly for the best selection. Also, make a point to visit a few weeks after a change of season, a time when many people clean out their closets to make room for new clothes.




Step
2



Let your local consignment store know what you're most interested in and all of your measurements. Many will call you when your preferences come in, or at least consider consigning things they know there is demand for.




Step
3



Examine all of the items you're considering buying for damages, including separating seams, stains, tears, moth holes, missing buttons or faulty zippers.




Step
4



Take a look at all styles that you fancy, and that look like they might fit. Previous owners may have had garments altered, so the size 12 may fit more like a size 10.




Step
5



Consider altering items that may not fit perfectly. Even with a nominal tailoring charge, you're likely to come away with a great deal, especially on high-end designer items.







Tips & Warnings









It's a good bet you can negotiate a discount on goods that are well worn, slightly damaged or unique. Otherwise, feel out the proprietor or sales associate for latitude in the asking price.








Walk the entire store and look through all the racks. Many consignment stores are randomly organized, so the perfect black slacks may be hidden between the summer dresses and sleepwear.








Understand the return and exchange policies of each consignment shop. If something doesn't work out, it's smart to know your options.



http://www.ehow.com/how_17125_shop-consignment-stores.html

How to Shop at Banana Republic

How to Shop at Banana Republic



Trendy and fashionable,

Banana


Republic offers quality, stylish clothing and accessories. Shopping at Banana Republic is a pleasant experience since the stores are well-designed and expertly staffed. Owned by the Gap Inc. parent company, Banana Republic specializes in men's and women's fashions, including women's tall and men's tall items. Here's how to enjoy shopping at Banana Republic.









Step
1



Locate a Banana Republic store or shop online through the company website. By shopping online, you can save time and travel, purchasing items with the click of the mouse. Shopping in-store allows you to browse the racks, feel the material and try on the garments you like before buying them. You'll also notice items you would have missed shopping online.




Step
2



Browse the women's clothing for career separates if your office dresses business or business casual. The women's suits are well-designed and nicely tailored. Pair the suits with lovely blouses and silk shirts.




Step
3



Look for casual and weekend wear, such as denim jeans, chinos and casual pants with stretch. Find stylish

sweaters


, casual knit tops and oversized cowl-neck shirts.




Step
4



Try on the clothes if you're at the store, paying careful attention to the fit and design on your body. If ordering online, try on the clothes when they arrive, returning those that are not your style or don't fit as well as they should.




Step
5



Shop for the men in your life at Banana Republic. Men's clothing has become more varied of late, and Banana Republic offers many options for the style-conscious men in your life, as well as basics for all guys.




Step
6



Purchase your items, taking advantage of any savings and coupons offered. Sign up to receive coupons in the mail.


http://www.ehow.com/how_2125092_shop-banana-republic.html

How to Shop at Ann Taylor Loft

How to Shop at Ann Taylor Loft



With items featured in InStyle magazine and other fashion publications, Ann Taylor Loft offers the same quality you expect from Ann Taylor, with some extra creative touches and reasonable prices. Ann Taylor Loft has regular bricks & mortar stores as well as an online shopping website for convenient ordering. At Ann Taylor Loft, you can find essentials and extras to create a fabulous wardrobe.









Step
1



Browse the racks at Ann Taylor Loft (or the selection online) for cute seasonal separates that can be easily mixed and matched with your wardrobe.




Step
2



Look for career items in Ann Taylor Loft, ranging from pencil skirts to tailored tweed blazers and silk blouses. Ann Taylor Loft has a special online section called "Desk to Dinner" that features clothes easily convertible from career to going out.




Step
3



Find formal wear at Ann Taylor Loft, such as a cute black dress for evening events or a brown paisley wrap-around dress.




Step
4



Locate casual clothes and swimwear at Ann Taylor Loft in warmer months. You'll find cute shorts and Tees, one-piece and two-piece swimwear, flip flops and casual beach bags.




Step
5



Accessorize your wardrobe at Ann Taylor Loft with cute hats, stylish totes and purses,

belts


, sunglasses and boots and shoes.







Tips & Warnings









Join the Ann Taylor Loft email list to be notified of new arrivals and bargain deals.








Watch for specials, such as when you spend $50 or more, you will receive $25 in Ann Taylor Loft store credit. Watch for the special online.



http://www.ehow.com/how_2145466_shop-ann-taylor-loft.html