Declare economic independence with revolutionary micro-currency

Communities around the world who find the mainstream economic system taxing at best, and downright disempowering at worst, are taking matters into their own hands. With micro-currency and modern day barter systems, people are making positive strides in curbing economic downturns. Both promote ingenuity, economic sustainability, prosperity and connection with neighborhood commerce. As more cities, towns and rural hamlets embrace alternative currencies and bartering, abundance thrives -- free of national and global financial strangleholds.

Inspired local economies

Ziggy Stardust on valid currency? This is just what the London neighborhood of Brixton has done. Called the Brixton Pound, residents can use it at over 200 local businesses. As an added bonus, businesses often extend a discount to those using this innovative (and gorgeous) money. Although backed by national banknotes, the beauty of alternative currency is that it keeps money and prosperity local. Brixton is one of four regions in the UK that currently employ this ingenious economic system.

Trans-Pacific Partnership: "We Will Not Obey"; Building a Global Resistance Movement

(Truthout) We are in a time of transformational change. The opportunity is here to reverse the destruction wrought by rigged corporate trade agreements and to demand trade that is fair and promotes sustainable practices. There is no reason trade cannot improve the lives of workers and people around the world, as well as protect the planet from the rapacious destruction of corporate greed. We need to insist that people and the planet come before profits.

It is up to us to make this transformation a reality. To do so we must build a broad-based, movement of movements that sends a clear message to Washington, DC: "If you pass the Trans-Pacific Partnership, we will not obey."

The Obama administration has made it a priority to have the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) completed by the end of the year. The TPP is the largest trade agreement negotiated since the World Trade Organization (WTO). It covers 12 countries so far and includes provisions that reach beyond issues of trade. The full contents of the TPP are unknown because it has been negotiated with unprecedented secrecy; however, it is clear from what has been revealed that the TPP gives transnational corporations the power to alter our laws down to the local level to enhance and protect their profits.

Thrive Short-Order | Scapes with Eggs, Bacon and Artisan Salt {Paleo and Gluten-free}

We received a tangle of scapes with our CSA box last week and I decided to throw together a quick lunch utilizing this gorgeous vegetable. For those of you who are unfamiliar with this relative of garlic, you are in for a treat. Keep an eye out at your Farmer’s Market for slender, corkscrew-shaped green stalks that are topped with a white ‘Russian dome.’ Possessing a more complex flavor than standard garlic, you can use the entire stalk and bulb in any culinary creation where you would like a hint of flavor, without it being overpowering. The white bulb caramelizes beautifully, just make sure you don’t over do it since it can burn and turn bitter just as easily.

I also came across several varieties of artisan salt at our local natural market the other day—both black and pink Hawaiian, along with an applewood smoked number. I decided to use a pinch of each to lend a bit of mystery and depth to my humble fried eggs. Why not? Feel free to grind the salt. I chose not to from sheer laziness, and it worked out just fine.

This recipe comes together in a snap—the perfect compliment for busy and fun-filled summer days where the last thing in the world you want to be doing is slaving over a hot stove.

Surprising solution for Ebola virus

(NaturalHealth365) 

By Thomas E. Levy, MD, JD

Whether the infectious disease branch of modern medicine is truly unaware or just does not want to admit they are completely wrong on how to cure a viral syndrome remains a debatable point. Certainly, their “find a vaccine for everything” approach to viruses is not the answer.

Even if a vaccine could be introduced into the body without associated toxins and severe side effects that was effective in decreasing the chances of contracting a given viral infection, such an approach does absolutely nothing for the individual who is already critically ill with an overwhelming viral count in the body. And it does nothing for the individuals who remained virus-free yet suffered debilitating side effects.

Hair colorants and the cancer connection—Protect yourself with these natural alternatives

As a culture obsessed with youth and beauty, it's easy to fall into the trap of using hair dyes to cover those telltale gray hairs. However, using these commercial products is risky since the chemical formulations are linked with a range of cancers. Even so-called 'natural' dyes can compromise health. Where do we turn? With a measure of creativity and knowledge, do-it-yourself hair color can give you glossy, rich locks without the drawbacks of pre-made colorants.

Beware of youth in a bottle

In the quest for an ageless appearance, scores of women and men have substantially increased their risk of cancer through the use of commercial hair dyes. Concoctions of poisons that can lead to cancer of the breast, ovary and bladder, as well as leukemia, the hazards of hair colorants outweigh the temporary cosmetic benefits. According to NYR Natural News, several studies over the years have found:

Shocking Results: Woman Replaces 40 Medications With Raw Cannabis Juice

(Collective Evolution) By Arjun Walia

Although the results may not be shocking to everyone, many people on the planet are just starting to wake up to the tremendous medicinal benefits that cannabis has to offer. A recent study conducted by the Institute of Molecular Psychiatry at the University of Bonn in Germany just discovered that the activation of the brain’s cannabinoid system triggers the release of antioxidants that act as a cleansing mechanism. This process is known to remove damaged cells and improve the efficiency of mitochondria. Mitochondria is the energy sources that powers cells. The study was published in the Philosophical Transactions of The Royal Society.

Overheated this summer? Cool anger, anxiety, stress and more with chrysanthemum tea

Long revered by traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), chrysanthemum tea balances the system in a variety of ways. Especially useful during the spring and summer months, it cools the body and clears the liver. The tea also supports immunity, reduces high blood pressure, relaxes the nervous system and curbs aging. Cultivated by the Chinese for over 3,000 years and readily prescribed by TCM practitioners, this trusted herb can heal a multitude of health complaints.

Nectar of poets, tisane of the common man

Chinese poetry reflects the exceptional respect paid to the humble chrysanthemum flower in its ability to heal an imbalanced body and mind. The Chinese poet Tao Yuanming (CE 365-427) writes in Drinking, "While picking chrysanthemums beneath the easter fence, my gaze uptown the southern mountain rest," indicating a serene retreat away from the bustling world. Likewise, TCM utilizes the herb to quiet anxiety and balance the nerves. Since chrysanthemum supports a healthy liver, "wind" ailments such as anger, stress, headache and dizziness are eased as well. Greer's Health & Wellness affirms the herb is used to "sharpen the vision and hearing, calm the nerves and clear the brain."

Live your bliss by boosting brain dopamine levels

If you're blue, can't seem to shed those extra pounds or suffer from malaise, you may be lacking adequate dopamine. As a powerful brain neurotransmitter, dopamine regulates movement, feelings of pleasure, cognitive ability and appetite. When levels are low, zest for life plummets and we become prone to neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's - even schizophrenia. But not to worry. Keeping dopamine flowing freely is easy with a few dietary recommendations.

Food as Medicine

14 Ways to Cleanse the Body from Environmental Toxins

(World Mathaba)
by Christina Sarich

Our blood and bones contain over 85,000 different toxins Our blood and bones contain over 85,000 different toxins
From the chemtrails being sprayed over our neighborhoods to the poisons killing our bees and making our food toxic ‘medicine’ we need a way to purge the deadly elixirs of a greedy government, owned and run by corporate interests. For the sake of keeping your attention, I won’t go on ad nauseum about fluoridated water, oil spills, and contaminated air and water due to fracking and mining.

It’s not a fairytale: Seattle to build nation’s first food forest

By Clare Leschin-Hoar

Forget meadows. Seattle's food forest will be filled with edible plants, and everything from pears to herbs will be free for the taking.

(take part) Seattle’s vision of an urban food oasis is going forward. A seven-acre plot of land in the city’s Beacon Hill neighborhood will be planted with hundreds of different kinds of edibles: walnut and chestnut trees; blueberry and raspberry bushes; fruit trees, including apples and pears; exotics like pineapple, yuzu citrus, guava, persimmons, honeyberries, and lingonberries; herbs; and more. All will be available for public plucking to anyone who wanders into the city’s first food forest.

Gardasil continues to devastate lives around the world, Obama administration responds by pumping another $1.2 million into HPV vaccine push

"After receiving her second dose of Gardasil ... she could crawl but ... needed to use crutches or a wheel chair ... She experienced problems breathing and had 'super migraines' that never went away ... She had swelling in her face, jaw and wrists. The patient was diagnosed with Guillain-Barre syndrome, myelin sheath degeneration and peripheral neuropathy. Patient was hospitalized twice ... patient has not recovered from symptoms," states a press release by Judicial Watch regarding documents obtained from the FDA's Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System (VAERS). Regrettably, this is only one of more than 6,000 registered adverse reactions connected with the vaccine, including over 100 deaths.

Troubled history

Seeking a low-cost solution to cardiovascular troubles? Hibiscus may be the answer

If you have traveled to Mexico, then chances are that you've seen the vibrant, scarlet-hued herbal tea known as hibiscus. Commonly referred to as "sour drink" in Iran, hibiscus not only is a refreshingly tart brew but also has been used worldwide as an effective medicinal beverage. Rich in vitamin C, alkaloids and bioflavonoids, this bright-red elixir is traditionally used for supporting respiratory and cardiovascular health, lowering blood pressure, maintaining fluid balance and alleviating insomnia. And now, contemporary research has validated the herb as a health-promoting tonic in a variety of areas.

Historical uses, modern applications

Originally grown in Angola, the cultivation of Hibiscus sabdariffa has spread around the world to such subtropical regions as Sudan, China, Egypt, Mexico and Thailand.

How To Eat For Bright, Beautiful & Clear Skin

(MindBodyGreen) By Dr. Alejandra Carrasco

We're all taught that acne is something that happens to teenagers, but the truth is that many adults struggle with this, too.

And it’s frustrating!

The good news is that dietary changes can make a huge difference in your skin. However, for many, the challenge is committing to a long-term dietary approach before throwing in the towel and taking prescription medicine.

Could you say goodbye to milk, refined sugars, and high glycemic index foods to get clear skin?

The most common culprits in acne are dairy, refined sugar, and high glycemic index foods – basically the foods that make up our Standard American Diet (SAD), according to a recent paper published in Cutis.

Stay cool this summer with natural medicine and herbal remedies

As we enter into the dog days of summer, it's easy to keep cool with specific foods and herbs under our belt. Using the wisdom of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), we can remain balanced, calm and energetic as the mercury rises. Particular suggestions border on simple common sense, others may be more surprising. But one aspect is certain—when the body is comfortable, healthy and at ease, the delights of summer are far more enjoyable.

The fire element, summer and you

Traditional Chinese Medicine views summer as the season of the fire element and heart. States of joy (or lack of it) as well as over excitement are associated with this time of year. The element rules the small intestine while the heart is home to aspects of consciousness like intelligence, memory, creativity, thought and sleep. Excess heat during summertime can aggravate the fire element in the body - causing lethargy, anger and irritability. However, with a measure of care and attention, we need not become imbalanced and hot under the collar. Instead, equilibrium enhancing food and drink are the perfect antidote to rising tempers.

Israel soon to ban "the most damaging environmental pollutant of the cold war”—Will the U.S. follow suit?

Unlike the United States, which continues to poison its population with fluoridated water, the Supreme Court of Israel has ordered the country to stop adding the toxin to all water supplies by next year. Considering fluoride is linked with decreased thyroid and kidney function, infertility, lowered intelligence, impaired bone strength, heart disease and elevated cancer risk, the Israeli government has taken a major step toward protecting the health of its citizens. Yet, for those who live in one of the few developed nations that insist on fluoridating the water supply, effective measures can be taken to protect oneself.

Water fluoridation unusual around the world

While it might seem downright miraculous to Americans that a country would completely refuse water fluoridation, truth be told, widespread use of the toxin rarely happens internationally. The United States is one of only seven nations that fluoridates more than 50 percent of its total water supply (Ireland, Malaysia, Australia, Colombia, New Zealand and Singapore are the other six). Canada just slips under the radar at 40 percent. Asia and a majority of the European Union have rejected the practice, and for good reason. Christopher Bryson, author of "The Fluoride Deception," classifies fluoride as "the most damaging environmental pollutant of the cold war."

On just 3 acres they are producing 1,000,000 pounds of food each year— How are they doing this?

(RealFarmacy)

10,000 fish
300-500 yards worm compost
3 acres of land in green houses
Grow all year using heat from compost piles
Using vertical space

A packed greenhouse produces a crop value of $5 Square Foot! ($200,000/acre).

Now, just to be clear I am not growing power or Will Allen. Also, a pound of plant or fish product is not the same thing as edible food unless you process all parts of them for food. i.e. eating the fish bones and using plant stalks in stews. Generally, nations that are well fed throw away most of the plant and eat only the best parts thus lowing the yield of food.

Tell the EPA you want lower—not higher—limits on Monsanto's Roundup Ready

When does one plus one not equal two? When mounting evidence says glyphosate, the key ingredient in Monsanto’s Roundup pesticide, does more damage to our health and environment than we thought.  And the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) responds by approving higher, not lower, allowable limits of the pesticide residue.

Please sign the letter below. Tell the EPA you want lower, not higher, limits on Monsanto’s glyphosate and Roundup!

In May,  the EPA announced a final ruling to increase, yet again, the allowed residue limits in food and animal feed of glyphosate, the key active ingredient in Monsanto’s Roundup herbicide. Under the ruling, the allowed glyphosate level in animal feed will rise to 100 parts per million (ppm) and 40 ppm in oilseed crops.

The EPA ruling defies sound science and undermines public health. Peer reviewed studies show rats fed diets as low as 2ppm of glyphosate were 70 percent to 80 percent more likely to develop tumors. Infertility, affecting both the sperm and the egg, was documented in animals subjected to glyphosate residue levels as low as .05 ppm. Birth defects in frog and chicken embryos resulted after being subjected to glyphosate residues of just 2.03 ppm.

Detoxing the body of parasites—Discover the best herbal remedies for banishing these health destroying intruders

Linked with cancer, seizures, asthma and more, parasites are an invisible, yet very real, threat to health. Difficult to diagnose, physicians and medical personnel often miss the connection between a parasitic infection and serious disease. It is estimated that a majority of Americans harbor parasites contracted from food, water, pets and even the air we breathe. Herbal antiparasitic detox programs are an excellent solution and should be undertaken annually along with a weekly maintenance protocol, even if one enjoys good health.

Cleansing herbs and nutritional support