Steam inhalations combine the benefits of steam and antiseptic herbs to effectively treat disorders of the respiratory tract, such as bronchial and nasal congestions, colds, hay fever, influenza and sinusitis.

To prepare a steam inhalation, place 50g of preferred dried herbs in a bowl or saucepan – chamomile, horsetail, sage, peppermint, and thyme.

Pour 1 litre of boiling water over the herbs.  Cover your head and the bowl with a towel, close your eyes and inhale the steam for 20 – 30 minutes twice daily.

Ingredients

• 3 cups black olives
• 1 sprig fresh rosemary
• 6 cloves garlic
• 1 piece ginger
• 2 red chillies, chopped
• 1 tbsp coriander root, chopped
• ½ cup extra virgin olive oil

Method

• In a frypan, add all ingredients and warm over a low heat for a few minutes.
• Leave to cool for several moments before serving on a platter.

Organic foods are those which are grown without the use of pesticides, fertilisers and other artificial chemicals. Meat can also be classified as organic, meaning that livestock are not given antibiotics or growth hormones.

Organic food can most readily be sourced from farmer’s markets or small, family-run grocery stores, however the recent popularity surge has meant that organic food can now be found in most supermarkets. An Australia-wide directory exists for those who are interested in organic foods, and incorporates most of the major food categories.

The benefits of organic food include an increase in the amount of antioxidants, which are important for maintaining cells in the body. Organic fruit and vegetables are also assumed to taste better, although whether this is noticeable or not is another matter. You can also feel better about organic food, as it is grown in a more natural environment, without the use of harmful chemicals which go on to affect the ecosystem when absorbed into the soil or fed into the water table.

Trying out your own organic garden at home is a great way to jump on the bandwagon without putting a dent in your wallet. Try creating your own garden using these how-to videos. The organic food movement is growing, so chances are there’s someone else in your life that is willing to give it a go. Take turns caring for a shared plot, and then enjoy reaping the benefits of your harvest!

When most people are sick, they opt to go to the doctor. But with the resurgence in natural remedies throughout the end of the 20^th century, there are more options for you. Here are a few natural and alternative health care avenues.

Acupuncture

Acupuncture is an ancient Chinese medicine that views the body as an interconnected whole. Acupuncture involves the insertion of fine needles into specific points on the body in order to relieve pain or for therapeutic purposes.

Aromatherapy

Aromatherapy uses essential oils and aromatic amalgams to improve an individual’s health and spirits. It relies on a holistic approach to wellbeing.

Chiropractic

Chiropractic focuses on diagnosis and treatment of problems with the nervous, muscular and skeletal system. It is particularly geared toward spinal and back problems and can help with sports injuries and orthopaedics.

Massage

There are many different types of massage including Swedish, Thai, stone, reflexology, traditional Chinese and Ayurvedic. Massage manipulates soft body tissues to increase circulation or relieve tension and pain.

Naturopathy

Naturopathy emphasises the body’s own ability to heal itself. Naturopaths examine a patient’s problem as well as their entire history in order to recommend a treatment.

Whether you choose alternative or conventional medicine or a mix of the two, make sure you trust your health care professional and are benefiting from their care.

Source: Natural Healers

Ingredients

• 2 teaspoons of olive oil
• 1 chopped onion
• 3 cups of water
• 2 cups of diced zucchini
• 1 cup of diced carrot
• 1 cup of drained cooked cannellini beans or other white beans
• 3/4 cup diced celery
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/8 teaspoon ground pepper
• 1 x 400g can diced low-sodium tomatoes, undrained
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/4 cup uncooked pasta
• horseradish
• red cayenne pepper
• fresh grated ginger

Method

• Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat.
• Sauté onion for 4 minutes or until lightly browned.
• Add remaining ingredients (except pasta, horseradish, cayenne and ginger); bring to a boil.
• Cover, reduce heat and simmer for 25 minutes.
• Add pasta; cover and cook for an additional 8-10 minutes or until pasta is tender.
• Just before serving, add as much horseradish, cayenne and ginger as you like.

Serves 4.