Lazy Cake Cookies

1 box yellow or white cake mix

2 eggs beaten

5 T Unsweetened Applesauce

2 C M & M's or Milk chocolate chips

 

Mix together, put in a 9x13 pan that has been sprayed with cooking spray and bake at 350 for 20 to 25 minutes

 

http://www.imalazymom.com/2011/02/lazy-cake-cookies.html

Zucchini Brownie

Ingredients

1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
2 small or medium bananas mashed
1 1/2 cup sugar
2 tsp. vanilla extract
1/2 cup cocoa powder
1 1/2 tsp. baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
2 cups finely shredded zucchini
2 cups unbleached flour
1/2 cup walnut pieces (optional) -- walnuts are high in FAT

Directions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.  Cooking Spray and flour an 9x13 inch baking pan.
In a large bowl, mix together the applesauce, mashed bananas and sugar. Add vanilla and cocoa and mix together. Then add baking soda, salt, and zucchini and mix together. Add flour and walnuts and mix together. Spread evenly into a prepared pan. Bake for 25 minutes until brownies spring back when gently touched.

 

http://recipes.sparkpeople.com/recipe-detail.asp?recipe=474935

Lemon Pie

Use FAT FREE Sweetened Condensed Milk & FAT FREE Cool Whip



http://refreshrestyle.com/2012/07/a-recipe-a-copycat-and-a-confession/

Great Cake

 

Photo By:  Rumsey Liebes

Ingredients:

• 1 box chocolate cake mix (add whatever it calls for on the back of box--of course replacing the oil with unsweetened applesauce)
• 1 can FAT FREE sweetened condensed milk
• 1 box Sugar Free/Fat Free Pudding
• 1 jar store bought cream cheese frosting
• 1 jar hot fudge sauce or a jar of store bought milk chocolate frosting that I will melt in the microwave and pour over the cake
• 1-8 oz container of FAT FREE cool whip or a jar of cream cheese frosting to pour over the chocolate frosting once it has cooled completely (I used the melted cream cheese frosting under the chocolate frosting on this cake) 
• 4 Candy Bars, crushed or sprinkles  

Instructions:

Make and bake cake according to box directions in a 9x13 in pan. As soon as it comes out of the oven, poke holes with the handle of a wooden spoon all over the cake. Mix Sweetened Condensed Milk and Pudding powder together.  Pour sweetened condensed milk mixture over the top of the cake. Wait 5 to 10 minutes then pour melted Cream Cheese frosting over the cake.  Let cool completely. Next spread fudge over the cake, and put in the fridge to set. When it is cool, spread coolwhip over the top and then top with crushed candy bars, or toppings of your choice. Refrigerate leftovers.

Very Moist

Raspberry Cheesecake Oatmeal

1/2 cup old-fashioned oats 1/2 cup water, or skim milk, 1/2 mashed medium banana Splash of vanilla, 2 tablespoons FAT FREE cream cheese (softened for 5 second in microwave) 1 teaspoon powdered sugar (more or less to taste) Squeeze of lemon juice (optional) 1 tablespoon raspberry preserves

Coconut Banana Bread

photo credit: http://www.fatgirltrappedinaskinnybody.com

original recipe: http://www.fatgirltrappedinaskinnybody.com/2011/10/coconut-banana-bread/

Ingredients :

• 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
• 1 cup honey powder
• 2 eggs
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 1/2 cups unbleached flour
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 3 medium overripe bananas, mashed (about 1 cup)
• 1 cup light coconut milk
• 1 cup sweetened flaked coconut (or shredded coconut)

Directions
Preheat the oven to 350°F. Cooking Spray a 9 by 5-inch loaf pan and set aside.
*I used 4 mini loaf pans, as you can see.

In the bowl using a wooden spoon mix the applesauce and honey powder. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.

Whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a mixing bowl. In a separate bowl, stir together the mashed banana and the coconut milk.

Gradually mix in the dry ingredients alternately with the wet ingredients. Start and end with the dry mixture. Mix until just combined. Stir in the flaked coconut.

Pour the batter to the prepared baking pan.

Bake for 1 hour to 1 hour and 15 minutes, when a toothpick inserted in the center of the loaf comes out clean.
*Adjust time if you use mini loaf pans. Mine took about 45 minutes.

Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a cooling rack to cool completely before slicing.

http://www.piarecipes.com/2012/09/coconut-banana-bread.html

Stop A Heart Attack In Its Tracks

February 18, 2013 by Jill                  

According to the Centers For Disease Control, 935,000 Americans have a heart attack every year. Often, at least half of these people actually die from the heart attack.
It’s important to know the symptoms of a heart attack so you can recognize even the small signs and treat it immediately.
The symptoms may include:

• Shortness of breath
• Chest pain, squeezing, or pressure
• Discomfort or pain in the shoulders, arms, back or neck
• Dizziness
• Nausea
• Sweating

Preventing heart attacks is the best option to aim for! Educate yourself as to what causes a heart attack, which mainly consists of poor diet and lack of exercise.
Most heart attacks stem from malnutrition due to too many processed foods, sugar, and other unhealthy eating habits. Feed your heart by consuming foods that will strengthen the heart. Aim for eating more foods such as, onions, apples, walnuts, olive oil, oats, beans, etc. And of course, exercise daily!
What natural remedy can you use to “stop a heart attack in its tracks?”
Cayenne!
Cayenne is a very effective stimulant, stimulating every system and cell of the body. It feeds the heart, cleanses the circulatory system, strengthens the pulse, increases circulation to the brain, plus has many, many other benefits.
There are 2 ways to take cayenne for heart attacks, in powdered form or tincture form. I highly recommend purchasing powdered cayenne from a health food store or a good herbal online store. The typical cayenne at a grocery store is not potent enough to do the best job for heart health. Also, cayenne in a capsule will definitely not be fast-acting for an emergency such as this.
If you would like to keep a cayenne tincture on hand, you can easily make your own!

It’s a good idea to keep some powdered cayenne or cayenne tincture in your purse in a small dark glass dropper bottle. That way, you always have some cayenne on hand if you ever encounter someone who is having a heart attack or thinks they may be having a heart attack.
If you know you are having a heart attack, of course get to a doctor/hospital as soon as possible. But, on the drive there, or while waiting for an ambulance, drink about 1 tsp. of powdered cayenne in a glass of warm water. Or, you can place 2 dropper-fulls of cayenne tincture under the tongue. Because cayenne is a healthy food, it is completely safe to take cayenne whether or not you’re having a heart attack. Always take cayenne if you at all suspect you may be having a heart attack.
If you encounter a person that is unconscious from having a heart attack, sprinkle a little powdered cayenne or drop cayenne tincture under the person’s tongue, a few drops at a time, until help arrives. Repeat this every few minutes if the person is not responding. Be certain that you don’t choke them. It’s important to administer a little at a time if they are not responsive so they don’t choke.
According to Herbal Legacy, Dr. Christopher never lost a patient to a heart attack.
And I quote from Herbal Legacy: “In 35 years of practice, and working with the people and teaching, I {Dr. Christopher} have never on house calls lost one heart attack patient and the reason is, whenever I go in–if they are still breathing–I pour down them a cup of cayenne tea (a teaspoon of cayenne in a cup of hot water, and within minutes they are up and around). This is one of the fastest acting acids we could ever give for the heart, because it feeds that heart immediately.”

http://www.modernalternativehealth.com/2013/02/18/stop-a-heart-attack-in-its-tracks/

Cheesy Garlic Bread

 

Recipe and Photo By:  Rumsey Liebes 2013

You'll love the aroma from the bread baking!

Ingredients:

1 ¼ Cups hot tap water
1/8 Cup applesauce
1/8 Cup honey
1 ½ Cups flour – wheat, white, or a combination of both -- sifted
½ Tablespoon potato powder – can substitute regular flour or oat flour
1 Tablespoon Applesauce Powder – can substitute regular white sugar, raw sugar, or brown sugar
1 ½ Tablespoons raw sugar or honey powder – can substitute regular white (meaning granulated) sugar or brown sugar
¼ Cup dry powdered milk
½ Tablespoon powdered Egg mix – can leave this out if necessary
4 teaspoons vital wheat gluten
1 Rounded Tablespoon SAF instant yeast
1/2 Tablespoon Wheat Germ
1/2 Tablespoon Farina/Creamy Wheat
1/4 Cup Chopped Jar Garlic
1 Cup Shredded Medium Cheddar Cheese
1/16 to 1/8 Cup X-tra water IF NEEDED

¼ Tablespoon Salt or a Shy teaspoon
1 ½ Cups flour – sifted – flour 1st then the salt (this helps the salt to not react with the yeast in a negative way)

After final raise remove towel and sprinkle some cheese on top before baking.

Remember granulated or white sugar is really bad for you. Also if using white flour try to get the unbleached stuff (it’s healthier for you – it also tastes much better)

Use dough hook—for Kitchen Aid when using dough hook never use more than a 2 on the speed.

Kitchen Aid does not tolerate this recipe doubled very well.

Put water, all sugars, honey, & yeast into bowl, set aside and let raise. Put applesauce, into bread mixer. Add 1 ½ cups flour, potato powder, dry milk, dry egg mix. Now put sugar and yeast mixture into mixer. Mix for a minute. Turn off and let SPONGE (covered) for 6 minutes. Start mixer again, NOW add the rest of the 1 ½ cups flour and then salt.

Let knead for 6 minutes if white bread or 9 minutes for 1/2 white 1/2 wheat, or 12 minutes for whole wheat. Stop machine and let rise for 15 minutes for white or 20 minutes 1/2 & 1/2 or whole wheat(covered). If a little dry try adding a Tablespoon of water at this stage.

Remove dough from the bowl. For bread loaves to be nice and smooth looking—roll dough out flat on floured surface then roll up into a loaf and tuck in ends. Form into loaves, rolls, breadsticks, cinnamon rolls, pizza crust, donuts, sweet bread, etc. Place in cooking sprayed & floured dish, cookie sheet, or pizza pan cover and let raise 20 to 60 minutes, or longer. Pizza crust does not need final rising.

Turn oven on to 350 degrees F. Bake 20 to 30 minutes depending on what you are baking, and depending on how hot your oven cooks.

Makes 1 Large bread loaf = 1 ¼ loaves – you’ll need and x-tra large loaf pan for this recipe.

If you live in a dry climate, you may want to put a pot of water on the stove to boil (I put peppermint extract in mine) while you make and raise the bread. This will help your bread to raise better.

Mother I Love You

 

Photo By:  Rumsey Liebes
Snow Art By: A.J. Rumsey

Soft Pretzels

Makes 8 pretzels

1 1/2 cup warm water
1 1/8 teaspoon active dry yeast
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 cup bread flour
3 cups all purpose flour
1 1/8 teaspoon salt

For the bath:
2 cups hot water
2 tablespoons baking soda

Topping:
1 egg mixed with 1 tablespoon water (optional)
Coarse pretzel salt

In the bowl of your mixer, combine the warm water, yeast, and sugar and let sit for five minutes or until foamy. Add in the flours and mix with the paddle on low speed until everything is incorporated. Let sit for five minutes, add the salt, and mix. Switch to the dough hook and mix on low until the dough is smooth and tacky. Place in a clean greased bowl, cover, and let rise for about 30 minutes to an hour or until doubled.

Preheat the oven to 450 degrees. Prepare two sheet pans with parchment paper sprayed generously with cooking spray or silicone baking mats.

Prepare the baking soda water bath by mixing the two in a large container. Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces and roll/stretch each piece into a rope that is 1/2 inch thick or less and at least 24 inches long. Shape into a pretzel shape by creating a U with the rope, bringing the ends down into an X (that meet up with the bottom of the U, and then crossing the ends so they twist in the middle of the pretzel. Lightly press anywhere the dough touches itself. Dip into the bath and place on the prepared cookie sheet. Let rise for about 15 minutes, brush with the egg wash and sprinkle with salt.  Bake for 10 minutes until golden brown. Serve immediately or at room temperature the same day they're baked (don't put in a bag).

To store any leftover pretzels (highly discouraged), you can keep them in a bag and then reheat in the oven at 350 degrees for about 5 minutes until crispy on the outside.

Recipe from Copycat Recipes Cookbook

http://www.shemakesandbakes.com/1/post/2013/01/homemade-soft-pretzels.html

10 Ingredients to Keep The Cold Away

Baked Donut Holes

Photo by Rumsey Liebes



Took my bread recipe tonight and made pizza, braided bread sticks, and donut holes.  Wanted to show you a picture I took of the donuts.  They were baked at 375 degrees for about 10 minutes on a cooking sprayed air bake cookie sheet.  The donuts were sprayed lightly with cooking spray then rolled in cinnamon sugar mixture.  Delicious! 

1 ¼ Cups hot tap water
1/8 Cup applesauce
1/8 Cup honey
1 ½ Cups flour – wheat, white, or a combination of both -- sifted
½ Tablespoon potato powder – can substitute regular flour or oat flour
1 Tablespoon Applesauce Powder – can substitute regular white sugar, raw sugar, or brown sugar
1 ½ Tablespoons raw sugar – can substitute regular white (meaning granulated) sugar or brown sugar
¼ Cup dry powdered milk
½ Tablespoon powdered Egg mix – can leave this out if necessary
4 teaspoons vital wheat gluten
1 Rounded Tablespoon SAF instant yeast
1/2 Tablespoon Wheat Germ
1/2 Tablespoon Farina/Creamy Wheat

¼ Tablespoon Salt or a Shy teaspoon
1 ½ Cups flour – sifted –

flour 1st then the salt (this helps the salt to not react with the yeast in a negative way)
Remember granulated or white sugar is really bad for you. Also if using white flour try to get the unbleached stuff (it’s healthier for you – it also tastes much better)

Use dough hook—for Kitchen Aid when using dough hook never use more than a 2 on the speed.

Kitchen Aid does not tolerate this recipe doubled very well.

Put water, all sugars, honey, & yeast into bowl, set aside and let raise. Put applesauce, into bread mixer. Add 1 ½ cups flour, potato powder, dry milk, dry egg mix. Now put sugar and yeast mixture into mixer. Mix for a minute. Turn off and let SPONGE (covered) for 6 minutes. Start mixer again, NOW add the rest of the 1 ½ cups flour and then salt.

Let knead for 6 minutes if white bread or 9 minutes for 1/2 white 1/2 wheat, or 12 minutes for whole wheat. Stop machine and let rise for 15 minutes for white or 20 minutes 1/2 & 1/2 or whole wheat(covered). If a little dry try adding a Tablespoon of water at this stage.

Remove dough from the bowl. For bread loaves to be nice and smooth looking—roll dough out flat on floured surface then roll up into a loaf and tuck in ends. Form into loaves, rolls, breadsticks, cinnamon rolls, pizza crust, etc. Place in cooking sprayed & floured dish, cookie sheet, or pizza pan cover and let raise 20 to 60 minutes, or longer. Pizza crust does not need final rising.

Turn oven on to 350 degrees F. Bake 20 to 30 minutes depending on what you are baking, and depending on how hot your oven cooks.

Makes 1 Large bread loaf = 1 ¼ loaves – you’ll need and x-tra large loaf pan for this recipe.

If you live in a dry climate, you may want to put a pot of water on the stove to boil (I put peppermint extract in mine) while you make and raise the bread. This will help your bread to raise better.

Recipe By:  Rumsey Liebes www.FatFreeEats.blogspot.com

MAGGIE’S COUGH REMEDY

¼ teaspoon Cayenne
¼ teaspoon Ginger
1 Tablespoon Cider Vinegar (an organic one, like Bragg’s, is preferred.)
2 Tablespoon Water
1 Tablespoon Honey (use a locally produced raw honey, if possible.)

Dissolve cayenne and ginger in cider vinegar and water. Add honey and shake well. Take 1 Tablespoon as needed for cough. Hoo-wee.
Note: This is potent albeit watery syrup. It also doesn’t dissolve perfectly. Always shake well before using.

If you make this in small batches as the recipe is written, there is no need to refrigerate.
If you prefer, you may refrigerate this. It keeps as long as you need it. I like to make small batches (it is so easy to mix up.) and use it up in a just a few days.

IMPORTANT MESSAGE: This remedy and dosage are for adults. I have no personal experience giving this to children, and cannot recommend it for children. Many have reported on this site (see comments) that they have had great success administering the remedy in smaller doses to their kids. This is those parents personal choice, which I respect. If the remedy has helped their family, I am grateful. But it is not my recommendation.

Honey should NEVER be given in any form to children under the age of one year, due to the risk of infant botulism–hence the remedy should never, under any circumstances , be given to an infant.

By:  http://nancyvienneau.com/blog/articles/home-remedy/

Apricot Coconut Balls

 

 

Author

Krysta Woo

 

 

Ingredients

3/4 cup walnuts or pecans
1 1/2 cups shredded coconut (plus extra for rolling)
1 cup chopped dried apricots
1 cup raisins
1 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
1 tbsp grated organic orange rind
1 tbsp vanilla extract

Instructions

Combine and cover apricots, raisins, vanilla extract, orange juice and rind in a bowl for 1-2 hours to allow fruit to soften
In a food processor or blender, finely chop the mixture with the coconut and nuts
Form mixture into small balls and roll in extra coconut
Let dry on parchment paper overnight or for atleast 8 hours until firmer

Nutritional Benefit

Apricots are full of beta-carotene and fiber, and can also help protect the heart and eyes. Raisins contain the trace mineral boron, which can improve bone health, especially in women with osteoporosis after menopause. Walnuts are high in phenols and vitamin E and should be consumed in whole form, including the skin for maximum benefit.

By:  http://www.naturalhealthconnected.com/index.php/recipes/snacks/apricot-coconut-balls

Crock-Pot Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup

Ingredients:

4 Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts	2 Cans Fat Free Cream of Chicken Soup
2 1/2 Cups Chicken Broth	1 Can Mixed Veggies
Noodles (amount/type of your choosing)	1 1/2 Cups Water
2 Tbsp Thyme	1 Tbsp Parsley

Directions:
1. In an at least 4.5 Qt crock-pot mix in the two cans of cream of chicken soup with one and a half cups of the chicken broth and the spices. Stick in the four whole uncooked breasts. Let cook for about four hours on high.

2. Remove chicken from crock-pot and roughly cut it up. You don’t have to be all fancy like.

3. Before replacing the chicken add in your water and and the rest of the chicken broth. Mix it up well. Add your noodles in too. And you can put that chicken back in now as well.

4. Cook on high for 30 minutes (or until noodles are al dente). Then turn your heat to low. Let cook for an additional hour and a half, adding maybe a 1/4 cup water if it seems needed.

5. About 30 minutes before serving add in your undrained can of mixed veggies.

By:  http://twobluesandapink.blogspot.com/2011/11/tonight-i-promise-you-easy-easy-like.html

Banana Split Cake Mix Cookies

 

 

Ingredients

• 1 (15.25 oz) funfetti cake mix
• 1 box (3.4 oz) instant banana pudding
• 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
• 2 eggs
• 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1/2 cup maraschino cherries, roughly chopped

 

Instructions

• Preheat oven to 350F.
• In a bowl, mix together the cake mix, pudding mix, applesauce and eggs. Stir in the chocolate chips. Gently fold in the cherries.
• Form the dough into balls just larger than a walnut and place at least 2 inches apart on an cooking sprayed baking sheet. Bake in the oven for about 10 minutes, or until set.

By:  http://www.tasteandtellblog.com/banana-split-cake-mix-cookies/

Herbal Mouse Repellents

I'm not fond of the litte grey creatures that I find inside my home (they can carry so much disease and yuck), but because I have little ones I have to be careful, what I put where.  So when I found a deceased creature in the window seat of my daughters room, I looked for solutions to the problem.  Here is what I have found and am trying.

Mice are said to hate the smell and taste of cayenne pepper, peppermint and cloves. Lightly soak some cotton balls in oils from one or more of these foods and leave the cotton balls in places where you've had problems with mice. Another option is to make cheesecloth sachets from dry cayenne, mint, and whole cloves and leave them in places where mice are, such as under beds and corners.                                                                                                                                          

Health Benefits of Lavender Essential Oil

The health benefits of lavender essential oil include its ability to remove nervous tension, relieve pain, disinfect scalp and skin, enhance blood circulation and treat respiratory problems. Lavender has the Latin name Lavare, which means “to wash”, due to its aroma that gives the feeling of a clean aroma.
Lavender oil is extracted mostly from the flowers of lavender plant, primarily through steam distillation. The flowers of lavender are fragrant in nature and have been used for making potpourris since years.
Lavender essential oil has also been traditionally used in making perfumes. The oil is very useful in aromatherapy and many aromatic preparations are made using lavender oil. Lavender oil blends well with many other essential oils including cedarwood, pine, clary sage, geranium, and nutmeg. Today, lavender essential oil is used in various forms including aromatherapy oil, gels, infusion, lotion, and soaps.

The various health benefits of lavender essential oil include:
Nervous System: Lavender essential oil has a calming scent which makes it an excellent tonic for the nerves. Therefore, it helps in treating migraines, headaches, anxiety, depression, nervous tension and emotional stress. The refreshing aroma removes nervous exhaustion and restlessness and increases mental activity.
Sleep: Lavender essential oil induces sleep and hence it is often recommended for insomnia.
Pain Relief: Lavender essential oil is also an excellent remedy for various types of pains including those caused by sore muscles, tense muscles, muscular aches, rheumatism, sprains, backache and lumbago. A regular massage with lavender oil provides relief from pain in the joints.
Urine Flow: Lavender essential oil is good for urinary disorders as it stimulates urine production. It helps in restoring hormonal balance and reduces cystitis or inflammation of the urinary bladder. It also reduces any associated cramps.
Respiratory Disorders: Lavender oil is extensively used for various respiratory problems including throat infections, flu, cough, cold, asthma, sinus congestion, bronchitis, whooping cough, laryngitis, and tonsillitis. The oil is either used in the form of vapor or applied on the skin of neck, chest and back. It is also added in many vaporizers and inhalers used for cold and coughs.
Hair Care: Lavender essential oil is useful for the hair care as it can be very effective on lice and lice eggs or nits.
Blood Circulation: Lavender essential oil is also good for improving blood circulation in the body. It also lowers blood pressure and is used for hypertension.
Digestion: Lavender oil is useful for digestion as it increases the mobility of the intestine. The oil also stimulates the production of gastric juices and bile and thus aids in treating indigestion, stomach pain, colic, flatulence, vomiting and diarrhea.
Immunity: Regular use of lavender essential oil provides resistance to diseases.
Skin Care: The health benefits of lavender oil for the skin can be attributed to its antiseptic and antifungal properties. It is used to treat various skin disorders such as acne, wrinkles, psoriasis, and other inflammations. It heals wounds, cuts, burns, and sunburns rapidly as it aids in the formation of scar tissues. Lavender oil is added to chamomile to treat eczema.
Other health benefits of lavender essential oil include its ability to treat leucorrhoea. It is also effective against insect bites. The oil is also used to repel mosquitoes and moths. You will find many mosquito repellents containing lavender oil as one of the ingredients.
As with many other essential oils, pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid using lavender essential oil. It is also recommended that diabetics stay away from lavender oil. It may also cause allergic reactions to people having sensitive skin. Some people may also witness nausea, vomiting and headaches due to usage of lavender oil.

By:  http://www.organicfacts.net/organic-oils/natural-essential-oils/health-benefits-of-lavender-essential-oil.html

Health Benefits of Vanilla Essential Oil

The health benefits of Vanilla Essential Oil can be attributed to its properties like anti oxidant, aphrodisiac, anti carcinogenic, febrifuge, anti depressant, sedative, tranquilizing and relaxing.

If you always thought that the name ‘Vanilla’ was a proprietary property of all those industries producing those mouth watering ice creams, chocolates, cakes, pastries, custards, biscuits, confectionaries and soft drinks, and there could not be a better use of it, then you were wrong. The Essential Oil of Vanilla is extracted by solvent extraction of a resinous substance obtained from fermented Vanilla beans. These beans grow in vanilla plants, a creeper that grows mainly in Mexico and neighboring countries and bears a scientific name ‘Vanilla Planifolia’. Its main components are Acetic Acid, Caproic Acid, Eugenol, Furfural, Isobutyric Acid and Vanillin Hydroxybenzaldehyde. Most of the flavors with a ‘Vanilla’ tag on them are not derived from original vanilla at all. They are synthesized from hydrocarbons.
Apart from its widespread use as a flavoring agent in the food, beverages and pharmaceutical industries and in culinary, the Essential Oil of Vanilla found its uses in the world of medicines too. We shall see how.

• Anti Oxidant: This property alone can take care of most of your problems. I do not know whether you are aware of it or not, but oxidation is one of the biggest causes behind most of our troubles and diseases. It is directly and indirectly responsible for a number of diseases caused by organic malfunctions and infections. Oxidizers or free-radicals cause oxidation of the living cells and tissues and burn them to death. Gradually, this result in weakening of the immunity, loss of memory, organic and nervous malfunctioning, gradual loss of vision & hearing, mental instability, macular degeneration etc. and the body becomes prone to diseases. The anti oxidant property of Vanilla Essential Oil neutralizes these free radicals and protects the body from wears and tears, infections and even some forms of cancer, such as those of prostrate, colon etc. It also repairs the damages already done to the body.
• Aphrodisiac: A systematic administration of Vanilla Essential Oil to the patients of impotency, erectile dysfunction, frigidity, loss of libido etc. can relieve them of their problems, and it is well proven. This oil stimulates secretion of certain hormones like testosterone, estrogen etc. which help bring about normal sexual behavior and promotes arousal.
• Anti Carcinogenic: To some extent, the anti carcinogenic property of Vanilla Oil comes from its anti oxidant properties. The free radicals or oxidants do not only damage tissues, but can also cause certain type of cancers, such as those in prostrate, colon etc. Certain components Essential Oil of Vanilla checks growth of cancerous cells, thereby helping cure cancer.
• Febrifuge: The vanilla oil can effectively reduce fever by fighting infections due to presence of components like Eugenol and Vanillin Hydroxybenzaldehyde in it. Being a sedative, it also reduces inflammation due to fever (Anti Phlogistic would be the right word for it) and this also contributes to reducing fever.
• Anti Depressant: You were sitting alone, depressed. Then somebody brings you a vanilla ice cream or a vanilla flavored drink, you have that and lo! The depression is gone! You start feeling pleased, satisfied and get into mood. This is one of the biggest advantages of vanilla aroma (better if it is real vanilla, but synthetic Vanilla or artificially synthesized Vanillin Hydroxybenzaldehyde works good too) that it makes you happy. The flavor alone is so pleasingly sweet and soothing that everybody, ranging from toddlers to centurions, likes it. Vanillin Hydroxybenzaldehyde, a component of Vanilla Essential Oil, is an effective anti depressant and mood up-lifter.
• Sedative: The Essential Oil of Vanilla soothes. It soothes all types of inflammations and hyperactivity in all the systems functioning in our body, namely, the respiratory system, circulatory system, digestive system, nervous system and the excretory system. It sedates inflammation due to fever, convulsions, anxiety, stress, hypersensitivity of allergy etc.
• Tranquilizing: Vanilla Essential Oil helps you get a sound sleep too. This is due to the sedative and relaxing properties of this oil. It lowers blood pressure and has a sort of tranquilizing effect on the brain too, and you cannot keep you eyelids open anymore. All you see then is your bed and pillows.
• Relaxing: This oil has a relaxing and calming effect on the brain and the nerves and gives relief from anxiety, anger, restlessness etc.
• Other Benefits: It helps regularize menstruations (although not exactly an emenagogue) by activating certain hormones like estrogen, which

Blending: Essential Oil of Vanilla blends well with essential oils of Orange, Lemon, Neroli, Jojoba, Chamomile, Lavender and Sandal Wood.

This article was contributed by Aparup Mukherjee
By:  http://www.organicfacts.net/health-benefits/essential-oils/health-benefits-of-vanilla-essential-oil.html

Light Chicken Salad

1 lb. chicken breast (chopped--rotesserie); 1/2 c. diced red onion; 1/2 c. diced apple; 2/3 c. grapes, halved; 1/3 c. dried cranberries, 1/4 c. sliced almonds; 1/2 c. Fat Free Greek yogurt; 1.5 T. lemon juice; 1/2 tsp. garlic powder; salt & pepper.

Pistachio St. Patrick's Day Bread

 

1 yellow cake mix

4 eggs

1/4 c. unsweetened applesauce

2 T. water

1 (3 oz) pkg. instant pistachio pudding mix

1 c. FAT FREE sour cream

1/2-1 t. green food coloring

1 t. almond extract

3/4 c. chopped walnuts

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Cooking Spray and flour two loaf pans. Mix all ingredient together until well blended. Pour into prepared pans. Bake for 40-45 minutes. Cool 10 minutes before removing from pans.

 

By:  http://blog.betterthanburgers.net/2011/03/pistachio-stpatricks-day-bread.html

Sour Cream Chocolate Cake with Peanut Butter Frosting and a Chocolate Peanut Butter Glaze

Ingredients:

• Sour Cream Chocolate Cake:
• 2 Cups - Unbleached Flour
• 2 1/2 Cups - Sugar
• 3/4 Cup - Unsweetened Cocoa Powder
• 2 Teaspoon - Baking Soda
• 1 Teaspoon - Salt
• 1 Cup - Unsweetened Applesauce
• 1 Cup - FAT FREE Sour Cream
• 1 1/2 Cup - Water
• 2 Tablespoons - Distilled White Vinegar
• 1 Teaspoon - Vanilla Extract
• 2 - Large Eggs
• Peanut Butter Frosting:
• 10 Ounces - FAT FREE Cream Cheese, at Room Temperature
• 4 Ounces - CHOBANI FAT FREE YOGURT
• 5 Cups - Powdered Sugar
• 2/3 Cup - REDUCED FAT Creamy Peanut Butter
• Chocolate Peanut Butter Glaze:
• 8 Ounce - Semisweet Chocolate, Coarsely Chopped
• 3 Tablespoons - REDUCED FAT Creamy Peanut Butter
• 2 Tablespoons - Light Corn Syrup
• 1/2 Cup - FAT FREE Half and Half
• Decorations:
• - Chocolate Peanut Butter Cup Candies

Instructions:

For The Cake:
1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.
2. Butter the bottoms of 3- 8 inch cake pans. Line the bottom of each pan with parchment and butter the parchment.
3. Sift flour, sugar, cocoa, baking soda, and salt into a large bowl. Whisk to combine. Add the applesauce and sour cream and mix until combined. Gradually add the water until combined. Add vinegar and vanilla and combine. Whisk in the eggs and beat until will combined. Scrape down the sides of the bowl to be sure batter is well mixed. Divide evenly between the 3 cake pans.
4. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out almost clean.
5. Cool completely.
6. Place in the freezer for 30 minutes to firm up before frosting.
7. While cakes are firming in the freezer start the frosting

For The Frosting:
1. In a large bowl with an electric mixer, beat cream cheese and yogurt until light and fluffy. Gradually add the powdered sugar about 1 cup at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition, scrapping the sides of the bowl often. Continue to beat on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add the peanut butter and beat until well combined and smooth.

For The Glaze:
1. In the top of a double boiler, combine chocolate, peanut butter and corn syrup. Cook, whisking often, until the chocolate is melted and the mixture is smooth.
2. Remove from the heat and whisk in the half and half, beating until smooth. Use while glaze is still warm.

Frosting The Cake:
1. Place one layer of cake on a plate or cardboard form. Spread 2/3 cup of the Peanut Butter Frosting evenly over the top. Repeat with next layer. Place the last layer on top and spread the very thinnest layer of frosting possible over top and sides of cake creating a "crumb coat" to bind the dark crumbs of the cake. Refrigerate for 15-30 minutes to set. Spread the top and sides of the cake with remaining frosting. Refrigerate until frosting is firmed up a bit about another 30 minutes. This will allow you to achieve a nice show stopping drip effect with the glaze.
2. Pour glaze over top of cold cake, using an offset spatula, to evenly spread it just to the edges so that it runs down the sides of the cake.
3. Refrigerate, uncovered, for at least 30 minutes to allow the glaze to set completely. Remove about 1 hour before serving. Decorate with Peanut Buttercup Candies.

Source: Sky High Cakes via Smitten Kitten
By:  http://www.gonnawantseconds.com/2012/09/sour-cream-chocolate-cake-with-peanut-butter-frosting-and-a-chocolate-peanut-butter-glaze/

Toothbrush

Cold and Flu Season: How to Naturally Clean Your Toothbrush We should really wash them out at least every two weeks. Even more frequently when an illness strikes the house. How? 1) Soak them in a cup of vinegar overnight. (or peroxide) OR 2) Soak them overnight in a solution of water with a few drops of anti-bacterial essential oils, like thieves, rosemary, clove, or cinnamon oils.

Greek Yogurt Strawberry Banana Bread

Ingredients

1 1⁄2 cup Whole Wheat Pastry Flour

3 tablespoons Whole Wheat Pastry Flour

1 1⁄2 teaspoon Baking Powder

1⁄2 teaspoon kosher salt (optional)

1⁄2 cup Brown Sugar (or 1/4 cup agave nectar)

3 Large ripe bananas

2 Eggs

6 ounces Chobani Fat Free Strawberry Banana Greek Yogurt

1 cup Diced Strawberries

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Start by combining flour, baking powder, and salt in a large mixing bowl.
2. In a separate bowl, mash bananas with a fork until they are gooey and liquid-like.
3. Add eggs and sugar… mix thoroughly.
4. Add greek yogurt
5. Whisk until everything is well combined and there are no lumps.
6. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, and mix until just combined. At this point, fold in the fresh strawberries!
7. Pour batter into a greased loaf pan and distribute evenly.
8. Put into the oven and bake for one hour, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean.
9. Transfer to a cooling rack and (try to) let the bread cool for at least ten minutes before slicing.

By:  http://nosugarsweetlife.com/content/greek-yogurt-strawberry-banana-bread

Stroke

Stroke has a new indicator! They say if you ...forward this to ten people, you stand a chance of saving one life. Will you send this along? Blood Clots/Stroke - They Now Have a Fourth Indicator, the Tongue:

During a BBQ, a woman stumbled and took a little fall - she assured everyone that she was fine (they offered to call paramedics) ...she said she had just tripped over a brick because of her new shoes.

They got her cleaned up and got her a new plate of food. While she appeared a bit shaken up, Jane went about enjoying herself the rest of the evening.

Jane's husband called later telling everyone that his wife had been taken to the hospital - (at 6:00 PM Jane passed away.) She had suffered a stroke at the BBQ. Had they known how to identify the signs of a stroke, perhaps Jane would be with us today. Some don't die. They end up in a helpless, hopeless condition instead.

It only takes a minute to read this.

A neurologist says that if he can get to a stroke victim within 3 hours he can totally reverse the effects of a stroke...totally. He said the trick was getting a stroke recognized, diagnosed, and then getting the patient medically cared for within 3 hours, which is tough.

RECOGNIZING A STROKE

Thank Goodness for the sense to remember the '3' steps, STR. Read and

Learn!

Sometimes symptoms of a stroke are difficult to identify. Unfortunately, the lack of awareness spells disaster. The stroke victim may suffer severe brain damage when people nearby fail to recognize the symptoms of a stroke.

Now doctors say a bystander can recognize a stroke by asking three simple questions:

S *Ask the individual to SMILE.

T *Ask the person to TALK and SPEAK A

SIMPLE SENTENCE (Coherently)
(i.e. Chicken Soup)

R *Ask him or her to RAISE BOTH ARMS.

If he or she has trouble with ANY ONE of these tasks, call emergency number immediately and describe the symptoms to the dispatcher.

New Sign of a Stroke -------- Stick out Your Tongue

NOTE: Another 'sign' of a stroke is this: Ask the person to 'stick' out his tongue. If the tongue is

'crooked', if it goes to one side or the other that is also an indication of a stroke.

Antioxidant Grocery List

 

Sunny Hawaiian Smoothie

(1 c. orange juice, 1 can of crushed pineapple with juice, 2 med. bananas, 2 tsp. honey, 1 carton Fat Free vanilla or coconut yogurt)

Coconut Oil

by Jennifer
Hybrid Rasta Mama

So what’s the deal with coconut oil?
Offering a myriad of health benefits, coconut oil is affordable, readily available and completely natural. I have completely fallen in love with coconut oil and use it for EVERYTHING. Literally. I buy it in 5 gallon increments and keep it all over my house. I even have some in the car. So here is a little information to inspire you to check out this amazing oil including 80 uses for it!
General information about Coconut Oil

Coconut Oil Is:
· Anti-inflammatory
· Antimicrobial
· Antifungal
· Antiviral
· Improves nutrient absorption

 

Daily Dosage:

Here is a chart outlining the recommended daily dosage of virgin coconut oil for persons over the age of 12. Coconut oil may be consumed by children under 12 but it is advisable to check with a healthcare practitioner on the proper dosage. Any good naturopath will have the information at the ready.

Weight in pounds/kilograms	Number of tablespoons of coconut oil daily
175+/79+	4
150+ /68+	3 1/2
125+ / 57+	3
100+/ 45+	2 1/2
75+ / 34+	2
50+ / 23+	1 1/2
25+ / 11+	1

 

Type to use:

· Expeller pressed coconut oil can be used for anything. It does not have a coconutty smell of taste.
· Virgin coconut oil tastes coconutty and is great for cooking and baking where you want that flavor.
· Food grade should always be used.

80 Uses for Coconut Oil

Personal Hygiene/Body
1. Moisturizer – simply scoop some out of the jar and apply all over your body, including neck and face.
2. Eye cream – apply under the eyes to reduce puffiness, bags, and wrinkles. Use on the lids in the evening.
3. Preshave – coconut oil will prep skin for the pending damage caused by shaving.
4. Aftershave – coconut oil will help heal your skin after shaving without clogging pores.
5. Deodorant – coconut oil alone can be used as a deodorant, but even more effective in combination with cornstarch/arrowroot powder and baking soda!
6. Hair Conditioner/Deep Treatment – use as a leave in hair conditioner by applying a teaspoon of coconut oil to your ends and then running your fingers through your hair to distribute the rest! For a deeper treatment, rub in a tablespoon of coconut oil onto your dry scalp and gently work through to the ends. Put a shower cap on to prevent transfer onto bed linens and leave on overnight.
7. Hair Gel/Defrizzer – rub a little between your palms and either scrunch into hair (for curly hair) or finger comb in through from scalp to ends (for wavy/straight hair).
8. Toothpaste – there are numerous recipes out there but I just mix coconut oil and baking soda and dab a little of the mix on my toothbrush.
9. Make up remover – use a cotton swab and a dab of coconut oil and you would be amazed at how well it works!
10. Chapstick – just rub a little into lips and it not only acts as a softening agent but it also has an SPF of about 4 so you get a little protection!
11. Massage Oil – pretty simple; grab some and rub!
12. Lubricant – it is an all natural, perfectly safe personal lubricant. Not compatible with latex!
13. Sunscreen – see my post on natural sunscreen for more detailed information.
14. Stretch Mark Cream – coconut oil is great at nourishing damaged skin. It may not be the magic stretch mark cure but it will help.
15. Nipple Cream – works great to nourish cracked, sore, or dry nipples. Apply to a cotton ball and leave on your nipples between feedings.
16. Diaper salve – very comforting on a rashy bum with no harsh chemicals. Also safe for cloth diapers.
17. Cradle cap – having issues with dry skin on your baby’s scalp? Coconut oil will not only nourish your baby’s skin, it also helps eliminate cradle cap. Just rub a teaspoon onto scalp daily.
18. Body scrub – mix coconut oil and sugar together and rub all over! Rinse off and your skin will be super soft! You can add in essential oils if you would like a specific smell.
19. Healing – when applied on scrapes and cuts, coconut oil forms a thin, chemical layer which protects the wound from outside dust, bacteria and virus. Coconut oil speeds up the healing process of bruises by repairing damaged tissues. Plus, it smells a heck-of-a-lot better than anything from the pharmacy.
20. Bug Bites – when applied directly to a bug bite, coconut oil can stop the itching and burning sensation as well as hasten the healing process.
21. Skin problems – coconut oil relieves skin problems such as psoriasis, dermatitis, and eczema.
22. Swimmers Ear – mix garlic oil and coconut oil and put a few drops in affected ear for about 10 minutes. Do this 2-3 times a day and it usually works within one or two days.

General Health and Wellness
23. Stress Relief – relieve mental fatigue by applying coconut oil to the head in a circular, massaging motion. The natural aroma of coconuts is extremely soothing thus helping to lower your stress level.
24. Digestion – the saturated fats in coconut oil have anti-bacterial properties that help control, parasites, and fungi that cause indigestion and other digestion related problems such as irritable bowel syndrome. The fat in coconut oil also aids in the absorption of vitamins, minerals and amino acids, making you healthier all around.
25. Fitness – coconut oil has been proven to stimulate your metabolism, improve thyroid function, and escalate energy levels, all of which help decrease your unwanted fat, while increasing muscle.
26. Nose bleeds – coconut oil can prevent nose bleeding that is caused by sensitivity to weather such as extreme hotness and extreme coldness. This condition happens when the nasal passages become dry because of cold or dry air resulting to burns and cracks in the mucus membranes so bleeding happens. To prevent this just put coconut oil in you nostrils. Coat your finger with coconut oil and then lie down and coat your finger inside your nose. Doing this will strengthen and protect the capillaries in the nasal passages. A Vitamin C supplement will also help prevent nose bleeding.
27. For breastfeeding moms, consuming 3 ½ tablespoons of coconut oil daily will enrich your milk supply.
28. Helps with weight loss & controlling cravings.
29. Helps keep blood sugar levels stable and/or helps with cravings in those with diabetes.

Health Problems (that coconut oil is known for aiding, relieving, or even curing when taken internally)
30. Eczema – in addition to taking it internally, many have success applying it externally, some don’t
31. Skin problems
32. Toenail fungus
33. Hot flashes
34. Bleeding hemorrhoids (can also be applied externally twice a day)
35. HIV
36. Head lice
37. Improvements in menstruation regarding pain/cramps and heavy blood flow
38. Migraines (with regular use)
39. Mononucleosis
40. Parasites
41. Thrush
42. Relieve gallbladder pain
43. Has helped some people improve symptoms of an underactive thyroid gland, results have shown subsequent thyroid blood tests becoming normal
44. Energy boost
45. Flaky, dry skin
46. May relieve acid reflux and indigestion when taken with each meal
47. Adrenal fatigue
48. Alzheimers
49. H. pylori
50. Candida albicans
51. Asthma, even in children
52. Autism
53. Cholesterol – improves HDL (‘good’ cholesterol) to HDL (‘bad’ cholesterol) ratio in people with high cholesterol
54. Chronic fatigue
55. Circulation/feeling cold all the time
56. Stronger immune system
57. Mental Clarity
58. Depression
59. Helps with inflammation in Crohns

Health Problems (that coconut oil is known for aiding, relieving, or even curing when applied topically)
60. Athletes foot
61. Back pain/sore muscles
62. Canker sores
63. Acne
64. Cellulite
65. Herpes (applied topically and taken internally)
66. Genital warts (through topical application over 6 weeks, and coconut oil enemas twice a day depending on the location of the warts)
67. Circumcision healing – I have read that coconut oil is a really great healer for this.

Cooking
68. Use 1 cup to 1 cup ratio when replacing other oils/butter in recipes with coconut oil.
69. Replacement for butter/lard/Crisco/PAM in it’s solid form – greasing pans, pie crusts, etc.
70. Replacement for various oils in liquid form – baking, cooking, sautéing, etc.
71. Nutritional supplement – melt and add to smoothies.

 

Other Uses

72. Insect repellent – mix coconut oil with peppermint oil extract and rub it all over exposed skin. Keeps insects off better than anything with Deet! Tons safer too.
73. Great for dogs and cats for general wellness. Just add a teaspoon to their water bowl daily.
74. Goo Gone – just mix equal parts coconut oil and baking soda into a paste. Apply to the “sticky” area and let it set for a minute. Then scrub off with an old toothbrush or the scrubby side of a sponge.
75. Chewing Gum in Hair Remover – just rub some coconut oil over the stuck chewing gum, leave in for about 30 minutes, then roll the gum between your fingertip. Voila! It’s out!
76. Polish Furniture – coconut oil with a little bit of lemon juice to polish wood furniture. However, I recommend you test it first on a very small, unobtrusive part of your furniture to make sure it works the way you’d like.
77. Polishing Bronze – all you have to do is rub a little oil into a cotton towel and then wipe down the statue. It cleans and helps deepen the color of your bronze.
78. Seasoning animal hide drums
79. Seasoning cookware
80. Moisturizing and cleaning leather products

Gall Bladder patients taking oils of any kind internally is NOT suggested.

By:  http://healthimpactnews.com/2011/80-uses-for-coconut-oil/

Banana Oatmeal Cookies

2 large old bananas + 1 cup of quick oats. You can add in choc chips, coconut, or nuts if you'd like. Then 350º for 15 mins. THAT'S IT!

Calories Burned in 45

Walking

By:  superskinnyme.com

Years

Lemon Crinkle Cookies

 

 

Ingredients

• 1 box lemon cake mix
• 1 egg, lightly beaten
• 2 cups FAT FREE Cool Whip, thawed (8 ounce container)
• ½ to 1 cup powdered sugar

             

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350.
2. In a large bowl, combine cake mix, egg, and Cool Whip. The batter will be sticky!
3. Form dough into tablespoonfuls and roll in powdered sugar.
4. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes, until the edges are golden. Allow to cool 1 minute on baking sheet; then remove to wire rack to cool completely.

Three Ingredient Low-Fat Creamsicle Cake

 

 

 

 

Creamsicle Cake

1 box (15.25 oz) White Cake Mix

1 container (6 oz) non-fat Greek yogurt, plain

1 cup orange juice

freshly grated orange zest, optional

powdered sugar, optional

In a large mixing bowl, combine cake mix, Greek yogurt and orange juice. Include the zest of one orange, if desired. Pour batter into a cooling sprayed 8 x8 inch square pan. Bake at 350 degrees for 30-33 minutes. Slice into 9 pieces. Garnish with a dusting of powdered sugar and orange peel, if desired.

Nutrition information per slice: Calories 201, Fat 4.4 grams, Carbs 40 grams, Fiber 1.1 grams, Protein 3.3 grams.

Tip: A salt shaker filled with powdered sugar makes the perfect tool for dusting desserts.

 

By:  http://www.betterrecipes.com/blogs/daily-dish/2012/08/28/three-ingredient-low-fat-creamsicle-cake/

Inflammation

StayAWAYfrom Avacado & Oil for FAT FREE diets.

Mucus

Apricot Granola Recipe

 

  
 Mix together thoroughly in a large bowl, using your hands:
  
     10 cups rolled oats
     1 tsp salt
     1 tsp vanilla
     1/4 cup honey
     1 10-oz jar apricot jam
  
 Spread this mixture out on a large cookie sheet, and bake at 350 for
 about a half hour until it's starting to brown, taking it out every
 five minutes or so to stir it around.

By:  tachyon@cats.ucsc.edu (Tane' Tachyon)

Apple Cinnamon Breakfast Cake

 For the Apple Filling and Topping:

2 T cinnamon
5 T sugar
5 to 6 cups sliced apples (I used Granny Smiths)

For the cake:

2 c sugar
1 c applesauce
4 t vanilla
1/2 c orange juice
pinch salt
4 egg equivalents, lightly beaten
3 c unbleached all-purpose flour
1 T baking powder
1 t nutmeg

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.  Grease a 12-cup tube or bundt pan with Pam.

Combine cinnamon and sugar and set aside 1 tablespoon.  Toss prepared
apples with remainder and set aside.

For the cake, whisk together sugar, applesauce, vanilla, oj, salt, and
eggs.  Combine flour, baking powder, and nutmeg and fold into sugar mixture.

Spoon a little more than one third of the batter into prepared pan.  Cover
with half of apple mixture, then spoon in remaining batter and apple
slices.  Sprinkle top lightly with the reserved cinnamon-sugar.

Bake in preheated oven for 1 hour or until done.  Loosen sides with a
butter knife, then invert cake onto a plate for serving.

From: "Susan M. Brooks" (vpasmb@gwunix5.gwu.edu)