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| lation, valerian. It is best to use a fluid extract of the herb, adding 30 to 120 drops (¼ to 1 teaspoon, depending on the herb used) to hot water or a soothing herb tea such as chamomile or lemon balm. |
| Sleep problems are unique to each individual, therefore, I recommend seeking the advice of a qualified herbalist. Many herbs help in specific ways: for example, pulsatilla is indicated for emotional upset. On the other hand, some herbs can have opposite effects on different people: Valerian can stimulate one person and calm another. |
| Soothing sounds can help one fall asleep; again, this is unique to the individual. Environmental sounds such as wind or water are calming to some; others prefer soft music. |
| Things to Avoid |
| Chemical Products |
| Many potential cancer-causing chemicals are in our homes: paints, harsh solvents; commercial deodorants; hair-coloring; the chemicals from air fresheners; oven, carpet, and other household cleaners; building materials; insect repellents; dry-cleaned clothes; deodorizers; and disinfectants. |
| In the 1930s, benzene was introduced as a cleaning agent. My grandfather, who was an Italian tailor, died from acute leukemia, which he contracted by working with this harmful chemical. Today, we are still at risk for exposure to high levels of benzene, which is found in many cleaning agents as well as in secondhand smoke and fumes from glues, gasoline, and some paints. In addition, carbon monoxide from gas stoves and furnaces is found in high levels inside our homes. |
| Avoid these chemicals as much as possible; try to protect yourself and the planet in every way you can. For example, don't use toxic pesticides on your lawn or garden. In the United States alone, approximately 886 million pounds of pesticides are used each year to produce food and crops. Four of the top ten heaviest pesticide-using crops are fruits and vegetables, with potatoes, peaches, grapes, citrus fruits, and tomatoes ranking near the top. 14 Become proactive about this poisoning of our food supply; write your congressmen about your concerns. Over a thousand new chemicals, many of them carcinogenic, are developed each year by powerful corporations. We must speak out |
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