NGOs for Breast Cancer in Australia

A positive company can work wonders. When one has to face a demanding disease like breast cancer, alongside lots of grit and therapy; mingling with others with or have survived cancer most often becomes a silver lining amidst the gray clouds of strife. Here is our small attempt to bring together the list of all organisations that are doing their bit to lend a helping hand to beings suffering breast cancer. So if you know anyone who needs any sort of support to get through this tough time, this is the blog you share with them.

1)      Cancer Council Australia

Is one of the largest groups of “all cancer” NGOs, along with its independent members in each state and territory. It aims to beat cancer through research, and also provide patient information and support services. The national coverage available through the state and territory–based Cancer Council offices provide a breadth of services that is not always possible through NGOs.

2)      Breast Cancer Network Australia

Breast Cancer Network Australia (BCNA) is the peak national organisation for Australians personally affected by breast cancer. It works to ensure that Australians diagnosed with breast cancer and their families receive the best information, treatment, care and support possible.

3)      Cancer Voices Australia

Cancer Voices Australia is a national consumer advocacy organisation representing Australians affected by cancer. It aims to ensure the voices of people, their caregivers and families affected by cancer are heard at a national level.

4)      National Breast Cancer Foundation

The National Breast Cancer Foundation (NBCF) funds all forms of research into the prevention and treatment of breast cancer.

5)      Look Good...Feel Better

Look Good...Feel Better is a free community service program dedicated to helping women undergoing treatment for cancer. The purpose of the program is to help them manage the appearance related side effects of chemotherapy and radiotherapy, thereby helping to restore their appearance and self-image.

6)      TheMcGrath Foundation

This organisation founded by the late Jane McGrath and ace cricketer Steve McGrath is involved in training nurses to aid breast cancer patients effectively and efficiently. It raises money to place McGrath Breast Care Nurses in communities across Australia as well as increase breast awareness in young people, with a particular emphasis on young women through our national breast education initiative ‘Curve Lurve’.Today, over 36,000 Australian families have been supported by 105 McGrath Breast Care Nurses nationally.

We travel farthest when we have company and our journeys are more memorable when we have people to share it with. Hope this you in finding something positive. Click to Read a short guide on Breast Cancer Awareness

Benefits of Herbal Tea

Drinking tea should be taken more seriously. Because it is not an ordinary high calorie beverage! Green tea is the variety of tea which gives out the most impressive results. The benefit bag involves high anti-oxidants, weight loss, better fitness and much more. In depth analysis by scientists have revealed many benefits of this herbal tea.

1.       Get smarter and sharper:

Green tea not only keeps you awake and increases productivity but also stimulates brain activity. Its main ingredient remains ‘caffeine’ (same as coffee) but perfect quantity will never let you feel edgy. Adenosine, a type of neurotransmitter, is slowed due to green tea consumption and this is definitely going to lead you through a long night of hard work. The combination of amino acids and caffeine in green tea acts as perfect boost for night before exam or important presentation.  So consume less caffeine than that of the coffee and earn double benefits!

2.       Full of rare nutrients and minerals

Important organic molecules and cells in body get protected due to green tea because of bioactive compounds. Fight all signs of aging by just sipping a tea as it reduces free radical formation. Free radicals trigger aging process in humans. Epigallocatechin Gallate, a type of antioxidant has blessed green tea with strong medical benefits. Pure form of EGCG is already being used to treat chronic diseases. For best results use green tea from high quality brands as these brands have less fluoride in the tea.

3.       Get better results from workout

Many dietitians prescribe green tea for weight reduction. A better metabolic rate and efficient burning is assured when you are sipping green tea on regular basis. It also makes you more active during work out. Though experts remain divided about the claim made by many consumers, it is definitely better than any other beverage out there for fitness freaks.

If you are looking for better beverage with unending health gains, then grab the nearest packet of green tea! 

5 Effective Benefits to Yarrow

Scientists call it mille folium, few people call it milfoil and many of us know it as ‘Yarrow’. The herb has been used as master healer of wounds and cuts historically. It is also useful for the treatment of ulcers, high menstrual flow and many other conditions.

This magical herb is primarily found in temperate zones of Asia, America and Europe. Grass lands and steppes are ideal locations for the growth of yarrow and this is the reason why this herb is found at many places. 

1.       Chinese medicines and Ayurveda:

Ancient civilizations like India and china also knew about benefits of yarrow. Old Greek texts mention the use of yarrow to stop hemorrhages. Energy distribution, kidney and bladder functions can be improved using yarrow, according to traditional Chinese system of medicine. Ayurveda mentions its application in liver, spleen problems.

2.       Ultimate cure for hermorrhage:

Yarrow is the best uterine tonic you can find. It can be consumed through tea to stop blood in urine or bowels bleeding (consult with your doctor for treatment of any condition involving internal bleeding). Hermorrhoids treatment is incomplete without this herb as it prevents heavy menstrual flows, bleeding ulcers.

3.       Full of salicylic acid:

Salicylic acid is one of the active compounds found in aspirin. The anti-inflammatory oils also reduce gynaecological pain. Regular dosage of yarrow can help in preventing menstrual cramps and endometriosis.

4.       Digestive agent:

The cholagogue effect produced by yarrow combats indigestion and stimulates smooth intestinal functioning. Gallstone formation is avoided due to efficient bile movement in the body.  

5.       Get rid of coughing and allergies

Goldenseal combines with yarrow and dries up sinus mucus. This means freedom from infections and choking. It cleans up the respiratory tract and avoids spectrum formation. Are watery eyes and blocked sinuses blocking your sight? Use yarrow to get rid of dust, mold and pollen based infections. Common flu, cold, fever can be easily taken care of by using it.

How to use Yarrow

Due to its strong and sensitive nature yarrow should be used carefully. You will find many stores selling it in the form of capsules, teas, skincare products made out of dry yarrow flowers.  Its concentrated solution should be applied directly to affected area using cloth to pause bleeding. Chew yarrow roots to immediately stop dental pains.  The intake of capsules should be two to five times each day depends on what your physician suggests. Half or quarter teaspoon tincture two to five times a day will help in stop heavy menstrual cramps and inflammation. 

Revel in the goodness of Raspberry

Red raspberry leaves have been famous for its pain relief capacity for ages. Those who know raspberry only as an ice cream flavour are definitely going to be pleasantly surprised. Aboriginal tribes in Australia have know about the application of raspberry leaves for centuries. As the modern science developed, many researchers discovered its specific applications during critical times of pregnancy and childbirth. The most special time of every women’s life becomes pleasant due to raspberry leaves’ active properties.

What’s there in the leaf?

This is not another boring green leaf with limited benefits. It has ample sources of Vitamin B complex, magnesium, iron and calcium.

Where it can be helpful?

The raspberry leaf serves to women as a natural regulator of menstrual cycles. Diabetic women use it to keep sugar levels low. Forget low blood pressure and heavy flow during periods when you are consuming raspberry leaves. Diarrhoea, acne and flu can be treated as well.  Raspberry leaves’ effective combinations of various compounds strengthen the immune system of mothers and helps promote better blood flow. It manages everything from proper breast milk supply to keeping uterine muscles healthy. Women should grab raspberry juice for shorter labour duration.

Mode of consumption:

The majority of people consume raspberry leaves in tea form. It is easily available in tea bags or pure leaf form. Only buy high quality brands to avoid the consumption of contaminated products as it can affect your health. Some companies have managed to create raspberry leaf tablets for direct consumption. So fruit tea haters can relax.  Tinctures can be mixed with juice or normal black tea too.

Recipe for raspberry leaf tea:

Ingredients:

A cup of water

1 teaspoon of raspberry leaf tea power or leaves

Method:

Boil a cup of water in a pan and add raspberry leaf tea powder or leaves. Let it boil for ten minutes and keep stirring. That’s all folks! Sip health benefits along with tea.  Add honey if you have a sweet tooth!

Smoking pipes and herbs are healthy and liberating combination

Smoking – an act that calms down many people and gives a liberating effect. As true as it may seem (for smokers), one also cannot ignore the fact that it does more harm than good to our bodies. While those few minutes of inhaling and exhaling might give relaxation, the long term consequences are far more devastating. So, are we going to suggest the clichéd ‘quit smoking’ or ‘get into a rehab’ tip? No. In fact, we have a better alternative.

Herbal Smoking Blends

History tells us, that herbs have been used by various cultures for multiple purposes, dating back to 2000 – 5000 years ago. Indian Yogis, Egyptian Royalties, Ancient Sumerians, Native Americans, Chinese Dynasties and other indigenous cultures have used herbs for soaking in a bath, drinking as a tea, and smoking. Yes, you read that right!!!

Only Natural Ingredients – No Synthetic Ingredients or Tobacco

Addiction to smoking is essentially an addiction to nicotine – a powerful stimulant drug that causes psychoactive effects and instantly transforms a person’s consciousness. Eventually, it also affects our body in fatal ways. And so, some people try to quit smoking by chewing nicotine tablets – of course these are not as effective as smoking. So, the question is, ‘What are herbal Smoking Blends.

Herbal smoking blends contain no nicotine and are also used for recreational and medicinal purposes. These blends are ideal for enjoying out of a pipe or rolling your own herbal cigarettes.

Advantages of Smoking Herbal Blends with Pipes

·         Smoking without side effects – No nicotine, pure organically grown herbs

·         Health Benefits – These herbs have also proven to relive depression, post-partum discomfort, insomnia, and also have been helpful in treating other maladies.

·         Good For Skin – these herbs also are known to cure pimples and boils, and various other skin problems.

You can use Herbal Blends in 2 Ways

These skillfully crafted herbal blends are a perfect way to unwind and relax.

1.       Using it as a Herbal Smoke – Just like you use any other smoking blend in a rollie or a pipe

2.       Using it as a Herbal Tea – Add 1 tsp to a pot of boiling water and brew for around 10 minutes. You could also add a sweetener if you want.

Herbal Smoking Blends should not just be an alternative to smoking but the first choice, owing to its numerous benefits!!! So, the next time you use the Smoking Pipe, try out these blends, we are sure you won’t be disappointed. 

Elderberry combats daily health problems

No other berry can have more power than this tiny fruit. The 1995 flu epidemic in Panama was controlled by the application of elderberry juice. One can clearly understand that effectiveness of this herb is as good as an allopathic medicine. So why not use this power of elderberry in a more efficient way?

A multipurpose herb:

Elderberry becomes must have herb in the house considering its efficiency in curing cough, viral infections, bacteria, flu and tonsillitis.  So you don’t have to depend on medicines to treat these conditions, which make you sleepy and full of chemicals. It is a simple natural way to keep your cholesterol in check, for strong immune system and better eye sight. Families who consume elderberry juice on regular basis are less likely to miss work days due to common problems such as flu, cold and cough.

Though scientists are still looking at ways to exploit the full potential of the elderberries, indigenous populations in the North America, western Asia, North Africa and Europe already use them for medical benefits.  Refuel your antioxidant activity by consumption of various elderberry products. Apart from antioxidants it offers bioflavonoids to fight flu viruses and common cold infection agents.

Backed with powerful compounds:

So what actually goes inside when you consume elderberry juice?  You are getting large doses of Vitamin A, B and C. On the top of that you get complex amino acids, flavonoids, carotenoids, sugar and viburnic acid. Cell damages can be easily recovered due to anthocyanin presence in the flavonoids. The advantage of consuming elderberry is you get all these ingredients in natural form from one source.

How to make elderberry juice:

You don’t have to force-feed yourself to enjoy the goodness of the elderberry. We have put together a quick and simple recipe of elderberry juice and hope you relish it:

Ingredients:

Half cup of dried elderberries

3 ½ cups of water

1 cup organic honey

½ clove and cinnamon powder for flavour and smell

Some dried ginger

Method

Just boil everything in the sauce pan except honey. Keep stirring for 45 minutes and let it cool down to room temperature. Now it is time to add honey and stir it well enough till it becomes homogeneous mixture. Congratulations! Fresh elderberry juice is ready. 

7 Reasons Why We Love Beard Guys

Since the dawn of ages, a man’s ‘Beard’ has been a symbol of his honour, social status, and sexual virility. In fact, during the middle ages, even touching a man’s beard would be considered as punishable. There’s indeed something about a man with beard that makes him sexy and suave at the same time. Where mothers certainly expect the guys to be clean shaven and well groomed – associating the guys with success; the ladies of this millennia certainly have different thoughts – rugged hairy men is what they want. So without much ado, here are reasons why we love bearded men

1.       They Look Smart

We have to admit the fact that a man with a full grown beard undoubtedly looks smarter than a guy who is clean shaven. George Clooney and Gerard Butler!!! Gosh, should I even give you more examples?

2.       Masculinity Amplified

They look manly!!! This does not necessarily imply that men with a clean-shaven face are less masculine. However, a beard as if literally amplifies his masculinity.

3.       They Have a Clear and Wrinkle-free Smooth skin

One might argue that the beard really would make the skin rough and may cause other problems, right? On the contrary, Beard guys have the smoothest blemish free baby skin. A beard is the fountain of youth!!! A man’s beard blocks up to 90% of the sun’s UV rays. And this is a fact!!! More so, the beard prevents the man from rubbing the natural moisturising oil off his face and thus no redness or dryness on the skin. The skin feels younger!!!

4.       They Look Older and Matured

There’s a certain maturity that gets associated with these guys. Also, they don’t just ‘look’ matured, they are. Ever had a conversation with a beard guy?

5.       They are Patient

This is one thing that is so apparent. The guy have been patient enough to grow that mane. He certainly has no problems waiting for things. These guys are cool and calculating.

6.       They are Caring

Having patience is not enough to grow a beard. These guys take utmost care of their mane and they are caring in general as well.

7.       They Are Committed

Many men just think of growing a beard and give up too easily; either they lack patience or they are committed enough!!! Growing a beard is a kind of commitment that one gives.

We could go on and on but the reasons would never be enough really. Guys with a clean shave take no offence but Beard guys are just too awesome!!!

Magical Mugwort for all your Digestive Problems

Mugwort has been known by many names. Some call this green herb as a wormwood or others call it the naughty man. But name doesn’t actually matter when this herb does its job perfectly. The botanist maintain the name of this particular species with medical properties as Artemisia vulgaris. Mugwort literally means midge plant in English.  Today, this plant has been exported and naturalized all over the world but its natural habitat remains in the Europe, Asia and Africa and it is suitable for a temperate atmosphere. Abandoned areas, field with lot of sunlight is perfect place for the natural growth of mugwort along with soil full of nitrogen and alkalis.

Looks alluring:
The plant grows up to 5 feet with its purple coloured stems and leaves have signature dark green colour with smooth feel.  The plant gets brown and yellow flowers with underside of the leaves covered in flattened hairs. All parts of mugwort have application in the medicine. Traditional Chinese and western medicine has already identified many uses of mugwort.  Although the use of leaves is more dominant, dried flowers of this plant have been collected too along with roots to use in medicines for off season.

What powers the mugwort? 
Volatile oils, flavonoids and complex compounds such as coumarin derivatives, triterpenes and sesquiterpene lactone give mugword many magical properties.

Uses of Mugwort: 
Mugwort is master in curing all digestive problems because of its strong antibacterial and antifungal properties. You can easily fight the uneasy feelings after last night’s spicy dinner using mugwort. It’s best herb for stomach pain, proper bowel movements and stomach infections. Stop worrying about motion sickness, acidity problems, slow digestion and lack of appetite when you know how to use mugwort.

Have parasites made your stomach their permanent home? One can easily get rid of threadworm, roundworm and threadworm using mugwort. In case the infection spreads till skin, it can rescue patient from that too.

How the mugwort dosage should be planned? 
Mugwort should be only used under the observation of trained professional.  Many people consume it in the form of tea for six continuous days in order to get better results. Some pharmaceutical companies have successfully converted this magical plant into capsules which can be ingested two times a day with water. But never ignore specific instructions written on pack. These warnings and instructions differ from manufacturer to manufacturer.

For Mugwort tea, all you have to do is to boil fresh leaves in 2 cups of water for 5 to 10 minutes. Take care of solution’s concentration. 

6 Effective Tips To Give a Perfect Massage To Your Partner

It’s no secret that the power of touch is amazing. The human touch is one of the most powerful tools that not only relaxes our body but also further strengthens the mind-body connection. A massage does not only physical alleviates us but also reliefs us from psychological stress. More so, the usage of herbal massage oils gives added benefits. Here we give you essential tips to must try on your partner the next time you use herbal massage oils.

1. Do not squirt the oil directly on your partner’s body

This is one of the most common mistakes beginners make. While pouring cold oil on warm skin may look intriguing in the movies but it feels terrible in real life. To start with, pour a few drops of oil on your hands and then rub your palms to warm up the oil. Then apply this to your partner’s body. 

2. Don’t Use too much of thumb initially

Another simple yet heavily effective technique that would help you prolong your massage session. Ever thought why do you get tired so early into the message? It’s the thumbs!!! Yes, using your thumbs is the fastest way to tire out. Don’t use your thumbs straight away. The open- hand technique is the best way to start with. Keep your thumb as the secret weapon and save it for the best part.

3. Always start with the head

Rub your partner’s forehead and temples and take time to massage their scalp with your fingertips. This will relax their body and ease stress to begin with. 

4. Keep it slow

Almond based herbal oils are light and easily absorbed by the skin. You don’t need to rush into the action straight away. These massage oils are a great sensual aid. Let your partner’s muscles warm up – slow and gentle strokes will increase the intimacy between you and your partner. 

5. Don’t ignore the feet

This body part is most commonly ignored by many. Just like the rest of the body parts, feet also have pressure releasing points that help our body relax. Use your thumbs to rub the sole and make tiny circles with your fingers; you can also slide a finger back-and-forth between each toe (this will certainly make your partner go wow!!!).

6. The Maximum Touch

Let your palms and fingers relax and contour on your partner’s body. Stiff hands will ruin the massage!!! The more surface area your hands cover, the more pleasurable it is for your partner.

These 6 simple techniques will certainly blow away your partner’s mind. Also, herbal oils will make it better. The rest, is up to you; as long as you enjoy giving the massage, your partner will as well.

Benefits of Clove Oil

Remember when your grandma used to tell insist that you savour a clove for curing your toothache? Not just toothache but powers of clove is said to be magical for skin care, immunity and even nausea. This small herb is an all-rounder due to its anti-bacterial, viral fighting capabilities. It is a handy remedy for asthma, cough, digestive problems and blood circulation. Various oral hygiene products now include clove oil for better results.  The oil is extracted from evergreen clove tree. The clove oil has made its way into Chinese and Indian cuisine due to its obvious healing properties; and Aussies are now embracing its goodness with open arms.

Let’s dive straight into many benefits of Clove Oil

• Ancient civilizations used clove oil as a disinfectant. Its strong antiseptic properties are useful even today.  Sports injuries such as wounds or athlete’s foot injuries can be treated well by clove oil.
• Trekkers and campers can apply clove oil for those sudden insect bites at night. Dilution of the clove oil is important before direct application due to its intense nature. Ingredients like sodium, hydrochloric acid, iron and phosphorus makes clove oil very active.
• Say good bye to pain killing pill when you have clove oil. Its application in dental care is very well known. Mouth ulcers, sore gums gets cured by clove oil due to the presence of eugenol.
• Muscle, joint pain and swelling get treated with cooling effect of clove oil.
• The best part is that it is equally effective for adults and kid.  Get rid of irritating throat pain by simply gargling diluted clove oil.  
• It is ultimate fighter of bad breath due to its signature smell.
• Teenager are tired of using various creams and face wash to fight acne. Clove oil will save youngsters from all disasters caused by acne.
• Combating wrinkles will be more efficient when clove oil is directly applied on face in its diluted form. Proper use of oil supplies more blood to dead skin cells and refreshes your face.
• Clove oil counters many diseases and infections within body through released antioxidants.
• Many researches have revealed its cancer fighting capabilities.
• Neural disorder treatments are also including clove oil to prevent anxiety, memory loss and depression.
• Consumption of specific amount of clove oil will stimulate brain and mind.

Though strong nature of clove oil is indeed helpful in all walks of life, in case your trouble persists check with your doctor right away!