Stress Management and How Stress Affects Us

Stress Management in Our Modern World

Ask any doctor, yoga teacher, natural health practioner… what their patients’ biggest complaints are and we guarantee the answer is stress-related. Yes, guarantee. Sure our modern world is full of amazing technology that make our lives easier, wonderful vacation destinations that make our lives more relaxing and medications a plenty to make all of our boo-boos go away like that.  But the more that our contemporary world has to offer, the more responsibility we assume. We have to learn to use that new microwave, take 2 hours of our precious time at the travel agents to book that flight, and work 40 hours a week to have benefits that cover those pricey meds.

Types of Stress, a Caveman & the Stress Response

There are two different types of stress, the first being acute stress or short-term, the less severe of the pair. Acute stress is that rush we feel in a sticky situation – that deadline in an hour, that fender-bender last week. This type of stress quickly fades once the threat is gone. The second type, chronic stress or long-term, is more brutal than the latter. In today’s 24/7 world, many people stay with their chronic stress symptoms for months or even years. This type of on going stress is one of the most common causes of mental illness and disease today.

In another perspective, stress can be a  good reaction as well, as it protects us from harm. Just imagine a strong, tall, and unruly caveman running for his life, a vicious wild beast hot on his trail. Although, as soon as he saw the viciousness  on his opposite, this particular caveman’s body went through a rapid series of hormonal responses that ran through his brain, pituitary gland, and adrenal glands so that he could, well, run for the hills! Let’s take a look at the process.  First, his brain secreted a hormone messenger to the pituitary (also located in the brain) which sent another messenger to his adrenals to release cortisol. The release quickly shifted the blood, oxygen and energy flow away from the digestive and reproductive systems to the muscles and heart. Thus his quick get away. Phew!

How Stress Affects Us

The problem is we are no longer cavemen running for our lives. In fact, we are far from it. So far in fact, the stress response is working against us.

Our bodies go through the same process as his, only many of us are so consistently overwhelmed that we don’t shut it off the way he did once safely at home. This chronic stress means that our body is always in “fight or flight” mode, never fully resting; be it days, months or years. And the problem with never shutting off is that long-term stress affects the body in ways we could have never imagined.

Here are a few of a lengthy list:

-       Dysfunctional blood sugar metabolism, often leading to diabetes

-       Cellular aging leading to older appearance and shorter life span

-       Literally, restructuring a brain, increasing the risk of anxiety, depression and/or other mental disorders

-       Heart problems, oftentimes deadly such as heartattacks

-       A conflicted immune system often resulting in auto-immune diseases wherein the body attacks its own cells

Common Auto-Immune Disorders Caused or Heightened By Stress:

-       Allergies

-       Cystitis

-       Diabetes

-       Hyper or Hypthyrodism

-       Narcolepsy

-       Psoriasis

-       Rheumatoid arthritis

-       Schizophrenia

Once this stress response has been turned on for a significant period of time, the adrenal glands become wiped out. This happens over the period of time, in what some in the medical field describe as the three steps to adrenal exhaustion. At first, the adrenals are turned on like there is a ten-alarm fire in the body. Hormones, like cortisol, are pumped in to combat the flames. But when the stressors don’t go away, the second phase, or resistance response comes into play. The adrenals simply can’t maintain the demand for cortisol. Thus, daily functions are carried out but with a struggle. Anxiety and insomnia begin are more present as is irritability. In the third stage, the adrenals become exhausted. Fatigue sets in and different systems in the body begin malfunctioning. If stressors are not minimized, the adrenals will fail. Most patients at this point collapse or die of cardiovascular dysfunction.

3 Steps to Fight the 3 Phases

If you find that you are lacking in stress management skills or think you may be falling into a pattern leading to adrenal exhaustion, all’s not lost. Fight back with three easy lifestyle fixes: Nutrition, relaxation, and therapeutic techniques.

Nutrition

There is a lot to be said about the healing power in the right foods. Those that are stressed often reach for the easiest foods which are nearly always laden with sugar, fats, and caffeine. To get balance back, skip the coffee and sweets in favor of a diet that combines whole grains, proteins, and heart healthy fats (ie: olive oil). Eat three portioned meals and two snacks daily to keep blood sugar intact. Adding mineral-rich Celtic salt or sea salt is also beneficial, especially in causes of adrenal exhaustion.

Supplements can also help the body properly handle stress. This include but are not limited to:

-       2,000 – 4,000 mg of Vitamin C

-       800 IU of Vitamin E

-       B-Complex

-       Zinc and other trace minerals

-       Ginseng

-       Licorice

-       DHEA

If you plan on taking any of these supplements, please consult a doctor first as some may have averse side effects.

Relaxation

A change of pace is what most of us need. Now this doesn’t necessarily mean the need to pick up the pace but rather to change the pace. Therefore, if you find yourself running around like a nut all day everyday, by night, a soothing yoga and meditation practice is right up your alley. But if you find yourself deskbound, your change of pace should be something more lively; a ½ hour walk on your lunch break or a cycling class after work. This yin-yang approach to daily life helps our bodies stay in tune to being both sedentary and active. In essence, it keeps us balanced.

Therapeutic Techniques

Whether it is reading self-help books or going to see a counselor in the flesh, 99% of the population can benefit from therapy of some sort. Learning to see reality for what it is and most importantly, what it is not, is the first step toward mental stability. (Hey, most of our lives really aren’t all bad.) Once we have a handle on our emotions, we are better equipped to handle anything that life might throw our way.

Although stress is one of the biggest health issues of our time, it is one of the easiest fixes – no meds required. Taking the time to learn what causes your unique stress story and finding your own coping techniques are the first steps in a road to regain balanced well-being and freedom of life back.

Resources:

http://www.project-aware.org/Resource/articlearchives/adrenalfatigue.shtml http://www.womentowomen.com/adrenalfatigue/adrenalglandnutrition.aspx http://www.drlam.com/articles/adrenalexhaustion.asp

Kassie Kuehl is a respected leader and educator in natural health and beauty care. The founder of Kasia Organic Salon and many result orientated "beautiful health" products, and experts in ammonia free hair color.  Kasia remains on the cutting edge of all-natural, non-toxic, and organic professional hair, skin, and body products and services. To become an Informed Beauty, contact Kassie at 612.386.4044, or visit www.kasiaorganicsalon.com.

Newsletter: Summer Trends + Take advantage of Fathers Day Special!

Dear kassie, EVERYBODY has been curious.... we've already sold over 15 POUNDS of  Soap Nuts THIS WEEK ALONE, but  many are still skeptical ... As a new  concept  Kasia So-Berry Fresh USDA Soap Nuts are truly a timely rediscovery both economically (.10 versus .37 per load = 50% savings) and environmentally  for multi-purpose "green cleaning." Multi-purpose -- not just your laundry?  You can actually boil them in water to form a liquid, which is used to clean dishes, counter tops, and floors! In a pinch?  "I have run out of my dish washing soap and can't get to the store right away.....  It's great to know that having that large bag of soap nuts means I can clean just about anything in my business to home." I personally started using soap nuts exclusively about two years ago and have never looked back.  Bonus * Using them at Kasia Organic Salon will save us over 50% savings this year in laundry/cleaning supply.  We simply love them.
Kasia Natural and Botanical Skin Care soPure Clarifying Mask Sneak a "Dad Special" in for YOU! Save 20% w/ Purchase of any Hamadi Shampoo! soPure Clarifying Mask exfoliates and moisturizes your skin to keep it looking healthy and young.  With all-natural ingredients, this mask evens skin tone and is the perfect way to pamper your skin. Helps reduce pigmentation and discoloration. Dual exfoliate system with jojoba bead and larch extract. Deep hydration with long lasting effects Heat-Proof  Summer Style Take it to the side, messy, French, fishtail and other infinite types braids and lead the trend of the most beloved hair styles for the summer! The key to great summer braids is to keep the braids loose and flow-worthy!   Try using clear hair bands and bobby pins to keep the braids in place. GET MESSY!   To achieve this look you want to scrunch your hair first with Hamadi Leave In Conditioner or Cream curl enhancing  Lotion while your hair is damp, diffusing until its completely dry. Then loosely pull your hair to the side, letting the shorter pieces fall out, taking bigger sections braid hair on the side and tie at the bottom leaving an inch or two of unbraided hair to show the wave. Come on by Kasia for a free consultation on how to get great braids from one of our experienced stylists! BIG TOPICS of Recent at Kasia! Healthy Scalp = Healthy Hair Growth My clients often ask me about potential hair loss when they notice their hair shedding. If I've seen it once, I've seen it all....and Kasia Salon is committed to creating options for you! "Ugh, Hair Loss...." The truth is, a certain amount of hair loss is normal (anywhere from 50-100 strands per day), but excessive hair loss and hair thinning indicates that something is not right. The causes of accelerated hair loss are very individual and depend on a complicated set of factors, including hormonal and metabolic imbalances, emotional stress and nutritional deficiencies. "Hint : No-Damage Extensions are IN!  Fullness, Length, and Body! Unfortunately many conventional doctors downplay hair loss as an inevitable part of aging for both sexes, treating it with topical products like Rogaine that enhance existing hair but offer no real solution to the causes of hair loss, and therefore no prevention of continued hair thinning. Why do certain hair follicles break their normal cycle and switch into a resting or "off" position - temporarily or permanently? And why do some women experience thinning hair on their head and darker thicker hair on other parts of their bodies? The reasons are highly individual, but can include any combination of the following: Stress (emotional and physical) Hormonal imbalance, specifically androgen sensitivity Genetics Immune system irregularities Thyroid disorders Nutritional deficiencies (especially iron or vitamin A) Cosmetics (allergies and harsh treatments) Nutrition Kasia believes in first hitting the inside out in proper nutrition. In countries where vegetables are primary in the diet, hair loss is rarely ever seen. Catalysts like single or complex B vitamins in particular are helpful with scalp sebum and new cell generation, necessary for healthy hair growth. Some minerals work with others to ramp up antioxidant activity and block bad enzymes. Reference: Women to Women (Great info here.....) Learn more about Hair Loss Solutions! Health + Essential Oils & Jojoba Oil Therapy, Custom Blends! + Book and consult about our NEW SERVICE in EXTENSIONS!! Let's talk about the options...you DO HAVE! Read  more about the TOP Real Causes of Hair Loss HERE!		Message $20 OFF your first Hair Color, Organic Facial, or Massage! Suggest a time and Book ONLINE! 612 824 7611 Congrats to... Melissa, Sara, Jason, Colette, Jillian, Amy, and Robyn on your SUMMER 10 Day Cleanse! "Kassie!  Everything went GREAT!   I didnt feel hungry as long as I was eating at the appropriate times. It required planning and preparedness everyday to have the right foods to eat for all meals, but I think we were all very sucessful! I definately lost some weight and people commented on that said I looked great.  The best thing was how good I felt during and after.  I have to say, the medical food really helped!" -Melissa, from guided 10 Day Cleanse
Upcoming Event Lymphatic Cleansing. Reshaping, and Posture Correction ALL-In-ONE! THIS Monday, 21st   at  6:30 pm RSVP Here! 822 West 50th St Minneapolis, Minnesota 55419

Kasia BERRY- FRESH SOAP NUTS * USDA * All-purpose Cleaner

Kasia BERRY- FRESH SOAP NUTS

organic all-purpose cleaner

USDA CERTIFIED   •   ORGANIC   •   ALLERGY-FREE

A SAFE ALTERNATIVE TO CHEMICAL CLEANERS

The growing informed consumer is becoming aware of facts that previously went unnoticed such as the presence of Triclosan in anti-bacterial soaps, bisphenol-A in plastics and that air fresheners doused in phthalates.  These hazards are present in items that a person uses on a daily basis, but also harmful to health but also deplete the environment.

Soap nuts as a detergent

Soap nuts are actually not a nut at all; they are in fact a berry from trees that grow in particularly in India and Nepal.  Saponins are nature’s cleansing agents that act like soap when they come in contact with water. The saponins dissolves in the water and function as detergents. The soap nuts allow water to penetrate well into the fabric thereby washing and cleaning them. The dirt is attached to the surfactant which is then drained along with the water.

An Easy Win-Win

Simple to use, cost effective, safe and “YES!” they work. Think about it. The less that we expose ourselves to chemicals, the better off we are right?  If you stop and think about the quantity of products and environmental impact we have contact our skin everyday and the conglomerate of particles that we inhale, there is no doubt we are a walking chemical slew.

With the dramatic up-swing of allergies and disease, more people every day are becoming aware of and  notice the effects of the chemicals that we are exposed to (through no fault of our own).

Long term effects of chemicals in detergents and soaps…

• Remain trapped in the clothes then create skin irritations and release harmful vapors
• Detergents contain allergy causing enzymes and dermatitis.
• Lung and heart problems can occur from the Sodium hypochlorite
• Higher risk to develop breast/prostate cancer or infertility from the nonylphenoxy ethoxylates
• Clothes wear out much faster
• Sodium hypochlorite presents in the detergents cause lung irritation, respiratory reactions, and cardiovascular damage and damage your eye and skin.

Why you should use soap nuts

Extremely Economical and Cost Saver

• They replace many products such as laundry softner, additives, and dryer sheets. Just look at the taxes alone you are saving from not having to buy so many products.

·      You save on water consumption and water softeners

·      They reduce clutter. With so many less products to buy no need for tons of storage.

·      They cut down on waste. With lots less products to buy, means less garbage to dispose of.

·      Safe for the environment and you. They are 100% biodegradable….non polluting……organic…non hypoallergenic…safe for septic systems

·      Easy to use: Can use them in their natural state, or grind them into a powder using a coffee grinder or blender. Store the whole nut, or the grindings in an air tight container.

Soap Nuts for Managing Eczema & Psoriasis

Instead of prescription medicine to manage your eczema and psoriasis, try using soap nuts liquid as it provides a completely natural and hypoallergenic laundry detergent with no chemicals for treatment. Soap nuts are so gentle on the skin that they can even be used for babies and people who develop allergies to commercially available washing products.

This is extremely helpful for people who suffer from skin disorders because many times the clothes that are being washed with conventional detergents or soaps can cause the skin condition to worsen. Soap nuts are a natural product and have a very mild and pleasant aroma. Using them as a laundry detergent instead of usual commercially available detergents is a very simple way of getting relief from these skin conditions.

How to use for Laundry, a little is a lot!

Fact:  A 1lb  bag of soap nuts hand packed in biodegradable packaging is highly capable of 160-200 loads of laundry!

1.         Put 5–6 Soap Nuts (about 1/2 oz.) into a ‘wash bag.’ 
         If desired, add in your favorite Essential Oil for extra 
         antimicrobial properties and scent.

2.         Toss bag in washing machine with dirty laundry.

3.         Reuse wash bag 4–7 times — or more. 
         (Note: Number of loads vary due to water temperature, hardness, washer type, duration of cycles, etc.)

So just how many soap nuts is enough?

Warm water causes the release of the saponin contained in the soap nuts, so base the amount according to the degree of soiling in the laundry items.

2 soap nuts for hot water, 4 for cold water or heavy staining,4-5 in hard water

(reuse soap nuts about 5 times then discard used shells in the compost bin)

Using as a liquid detergent
for everyday cleaning

Soap Nuts also are a safe replacement for many chemical-based, multi-purpose cleaners. Liquify the Soap Nuts and use the solution to clean windows, bathrooms, kitchens and floors. It can also serve as liquid hand soap, laundry soap for ultra delicates and shampoo.

“Liquid Soap Nut Soak” Recipe

1.  Bring four cups of water to a boil in a heavy sauce pan with a lid.
    2.  Turn off the heat and toss 6–8 Soap Nuts in the saucepan with 
the hot water.  
3.  Cover the sauce pan. Let it sit overnight.
    4. In the morning, remove and discard the remaining shells.
    5.     Pour the cooled liquid into a container with a lid. Give your Soap Nut Soak a scent of essential oils — lemon or tea tree oil for bathroom cleanser, lavender for cold water laundry loads, and sweet orange for dishwasher cleaning liquid.

This batch of Soap Nut Soak will 
wash at least 8 loads of laundry 
use ¹/₄ to ¹/₂ cup for each load).

For powdered soapnut crush the soapnuts in coffee grinder. Or boil soap nuts and strain the liquid then can be frozen in cubes and place in the muslin bag when needed.

Customize your Load by adding Quality Essential Oils

If you prefer a scent, you can some essential oil of choice to the soap nut wash bag before dropping it in the wash. The scent of the oil will remain. Alternately put the essential oil on a clean and absorbent cloth, and toss it in the dryer (like using a dryer sheet).

The perfect oils for the perfect scent

Give your Soap Nut Soak a scent of essential oils — 
lemon or tea tree oil for bathroom cleanser, 
lavender for cold water laundry loads, and 
sweet orange for dishwasher cleaning liquid.

SOAP NUT USE CHART

PURPOSE	RESULTS	HOW TO USE
Shampoo & conditioner	Clean, silky shiny hair, dandruff treatment	1 tsp. soap nut ground, mixed with a little water.
Body wash	Clean, healthy, soft soap free skin,	1 tsp. soap nut mixed with a little water.
Head Lice	Effectively kills lice and makes it easy to remove eggs	Same as shampoo
Dish Washing	Clean chemical free dishware	1 tsp. added to dish water
Laundry	No soap residue, chemicals, less fading, no need for fabric softener	Small net bag with a 5-6 soap nuts in it
Jewelry Cleaner	Gold, silver sparkle again	Make a paste with 1 tsp ground soap nut, and water rub on and polish
All purpose cleaner	Floors, counters, almost any surface	Boil about 1/4c.soap nut shells in 2 c. water. let simmer for 10 mins.
Pet shampoo	Gentle leaves coat clean and shiny	Same as for shampoo
Garden	Natural garden pesticide	Mix one tsp, in 2c. water

Thank You, Mother  -Nature for soap nuts.

She has given us a healthier life style for our families!

Dramatically reduced our exposure to harmful chemicals!

Give back to the  environment after meeting our needs!

PLUS! Saved us a ton of money….

$21.95 for....up to 200 washes!

Simple and Economic Safe Laundry Alternative

Ever wonder where the water from a load of laundry goes or even what’s in it?  99.8 percent of Americans use commercial household detergents, fabric softeners, dryer sheets and other chemical cleaners.  Most contain synthetic fragrances and chemical whiteners threaten ones health as well as the environment by building up in our water/ways that eventually venture into drinking water and fish populations, posing a major threat to human health. The EPA states increased exposure to these substances cause skin and respiratory reactions, or more severe issues like cancer, poisoning and neurological and reproductive problems. Make  laundry  earth  and family  friendly with just a few easy new modifications to your   routine.

By the Number.

* 17,000: the number of petrochemicals available for home use, only 30 percent of which have been tested for exposure to human health and the environment.

* 63: the number of synthetic chemical products found in the average American home, translating to roughly 10 gallons of harmful chemicals.

Using common scents

Dryer sheets most often contain chemicals that are suspected carcinogens, although there is another option to reduce your exposure to these toxins and still get fresh-smelling laundry. Simply reach for a easy homemade sachets that can be tossed in with the wash or placed on a closet shelf.   Handcraft an organic lavender (or scent of your preference) sachet and use essential oils to freshen up your laundry

Perchloroethylene, the  “No Perc”  in Dry-Cleaning

Dry-cleaning was developed in the 1850s when Jean-Baptiste Jolly used kerosene as a solvent to clean heavily soiled clothing which  progressed to the adoption in the 1920s of the chemical known as Tetrachloroethylene or Perchloroethylene (perc) which also increased the cleaning power available to dry cleaners. Be “in the know; Now,” as thankfully there is a rise  in more environmentally friendly chemicals.

Health and safety of  Dry-Cleaning

Perc is also a toxic chemical that poses health and environmental concerns if used improperly. OSHA classifies Perc as a potential human carcinogen and reported symptoms to high exposure of perc include depression of the central nervous system and damage to the liver and kidneys. Even brief exposure can cause confusion, dizziness, headache, drowsiness, and eye, nose, and throat irritation.

Like many chlorinated hydrocarbons, tetrachloroethene is a central nervous system depressant, and inhaling its vapors (particularly in closed, poorly ventilated areas) can cause dizziness,headache, sleepiness, confusion, nausea,

Commercial detergents leave chemical residues on clothing

According to Dr. George Grant, toxicologist and founder of the International Academy of Wellness, the “National Cancer Association released results of a 15 year study concluding that women who work in the home are at a 54% higher risk of developing cancer than women who work outside the home.”  Thankfully we can easily reduce these chemicals.

These recipes come from Michigan State University Extension, Readers Digest Practical Problem Solver (1991), and grandmothers everywhere.

Laundry Soaps and Cleaners

* For laundry detergent, mix 1 cup grated Ivory soap (or Fels Naptha soap), 1/2 cup washing soda and 1/2 cup borax*. Use 1 tbsp for light loads; 2 tbsp for heavy loads. Oxy Clean is also non-toxic.

* Adding 1/4 to 1/2 cup baking soda per wash load makes clothes feel soft and smell fresh.

* To get wool and cotton blankets soft and fluffy as new, add 2 cups white vinegar to a full tub of rinse water. Do not use vinegar if you add chlorine bleach to your rinsewater.

Newest Trend on the Market, ancient Mother Nature Secret! Go nuts and air out your dirty laundry with soap nuts

Many are curious about Soap Nuts.  Soap Nuts are truly a timely economic rediscovery for environmentally friendly detergents and cleaning products. From the Facts and Number previously mentioned, one can see why the consumer is so actively seeking new, better earth friendly products.

The  growing informed consumer is becoming aware of facts that previously went unnoticed such as the presence of Triclosan in anti-bacterial soaps, bisphenol-A in plastics and that air fresheners doused in phthalates.  These hazards are present in items that a person uses on a daily basis, but also harmful to health but also deplete the environment.

Soap nuts as a detergent

Soap nuts are actually not a nut at all; they are in fact a berry from trees that grow in particularly in India and Nepal.  Saponins are nature’s cleansing agents that act like soap when they come in contact with water. The saponins dissolves in the water and function as detergents. The soap nuts allow water to penetrate well into the fabric thereby washing and cleaning them. The dirt is attached to the surfactant which is then drained along with the water.

An Easy Win-Win Simple to use, cost effective, safe and “YES!” they work. Think about it. The less that we expose ourselves to chemicals, the better off we are right?  If you stop and think about the quantity of products and environmental impact we have contact our skin everyday and the conglomerate of particles that we inhale, there is no doubt we are a walking chemical slew.

With the dramatic up-swing of allergies and disease, more people every day are becoming aware of and  notice the effects of the chemicals that we are exposed to (through no fault of our own).

Long term effects of chemicals in detergents and soaps…

• Remain trapped in the clothes then create skin irritations and release harmful vapors
• Detergents contain allergy causing enzymes and dermatitis.
• Lung and heart problems can occur from the Sodium hypochlorite
• Higher risk to develop breast/prostate cancer or infertility from the nonylphenoxy ethoxylates
• Clothes wear out much faster
• Sodium hypochlorite presents in the detergents cause lung irritation, respiratory reactions, and cardiovascular damage and damage your eye and skin.

Why you should use soap nuts

Extremely Economical and Cost Saver

• They replace many products such as laundry softner, additives, and dryer sheets. Just look at the taxes alone you are saving from not having to buy so many products.

·      You save on water consumption and water softeners

·      They reduce clutter. With so many less products to buy no need for tons of storage.

·      They cut down on waste. With lots less products to buy, means less garbage to dispose of.

·      Safe for the environment and you. They are 100% biodegradable….non polluting……organic…non hypoallergenic…safe for septic systems

·      Easy to use: Can use them in their natural state, or grind them into a powder using a coffee grinder or blender. Store the whole nut, or the grindings in an air tight container.

Soap Nuts for Eczema

It is never recommended that anyone with skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis should use cleansers for their skin. This is a very difficult advice to follow, considering that cleansers are present in almost everything that is commonly used in and around the house.

Soap nuts are a part of the list of minerals and herbs in Ayurvedic cleansers and shampoos and are used in Ayurvedic medicine for treating eczema and psoriasis. Eczema can afflict both males and females alike, and even age is not a factor. Common symptoms of mild eczema can be dry and itchy skin but in more severe forms of the condition the skin becomes broken, raw and bleeding.

Managing Eczema & Psoriasis

Instead of prescription medicine to manage your eczema and psoriasis, try using soap nuts liquid as it provides a completely natural and hypoallergenic laundry detergent with no chemicals for treatment. Soap nuts are so gentle on the skin that they can even be used for babies and people who develop allergies to commercially available washing products.

This is extremely helpful for people who suffer from skin disorders because many times the clothes that are being washed with conventional detergents or soaps can cause the skin condition to worsen. Soap nuts are a natural product and have a very mild and pleasant aroma. Using them as a laundry detergent instead of usual commercially available detergents is a very simple way of getting relief from these skin conditions.

How to use for Laundry, a little is a lot!

Fact:  A 1lb  bag of soap nuts hand packed in biodegradable packaging is highly capable of 160-200 loads of laundry!

Soap Nuts also are a safe replacement for many chemical-based, multi-purpose cleaners. Liquify the Soap Nuts and use the solution to clean windows, bathrooms, kitchens and floors. It can also serve as liquid hand soap, laundry soap for ultra delicates and shampoo.

SOAP NUT USE CHART

PURPOSE	RESULTS	HOW TO USE
Shampoo & conditioner	Clean, silky shiny hair, dandruff treatment	1 tsp. soap nut ground, mixed with a little water.
Body wash	Clean, healthy, soft soap free skin,	1 tsp. soap nut mixed with a little water.
Head Lice	Effectively kills lice and makes it easy to remove eggs	Same as shampoo
Dish Washing	Clean chemical free dishware	1 tsp. added to dish water
Laundry	No soap residue, chemicals, less fading, no need for fabric softener	Small net bag with a 5-6 soap nuts in it
Jewelry Cleaner	Gold, silver sparkle again	Make a paste with 1 tsp ground soap nut, and water rub on and polish
All purpose cleaner	Floors, counters, almost any surface	Boil about 1/4c.soap nut shells in 2 c. water. let simmer for 10 mins.
Pet shampoo	Gentle leaves coat clean and shiny	Same as for shampoo
Garden	Natural garden pesticide	Mix one tsp, in 2c. water

Go nuts and air out your dirty laundry with Kasia soap nuts

BERRY- FRESH SOAP NUTS organic all-purpose cleaner USDA CERTIFIED   •   ORGANIC   •   ALLERGY-FREE A SAFE ALTERNATIVE TO CHEMICAL CLEANERS Common laundry detergents contain phosphates, ammonia, phenol, brighteners, artificial fragrances, EDTA and SLS, all which can remain 
on your clothes after washing. This residue can cause skin irritation (rashes, itching, allergic reactions) and sinus problems, as well as long-term toxic effects on the environment. Kasia’s Organic ‘Berry-Fresh Soap Nuts’ are . . . . . . perfect for sensitive skin (such as eczema, psoriasis and allergies) because they are naturally antibacterial, antifungal and antimicrobial. No added chemicals or perfumes are added. . . . more effective than toxic detergents. Your colors remain bright, fabric structure is maintained, odors are eliminated and static cling is reduced. Use on all fabrics — at all temperatures — in top or front loading machines. Tough on odors and stains; soft on delicates. . . . economical. Soap Nuts cost much less than chemical detergents — laundry is cleaned for less than 13 cents per load! Plus, no fabric softener is needed and they offer an unlimited shelf life. . . . multi-purpose. Use them to clean virtually in your home. . . . ecological. Soap Nuts do not pollute, are safe for septic systems, and are 100% biodegradable and compostable! . . . grown on Sapindus Mukrossi trees found in the Himalayans. (Beware of cheaper, smaller and darker soap nuts available on the internet. They contain lower levels of the active ingredient saponin, and therefore 
are less effective at cleaning.)

how to use for laundry 1.    Put 5–6 Soap Nuts (about 1/2 oz.) into a ‘wash bag.’ 
    If desired, add in your favorite Essential Oil for extra 
    antimicrobial properties and scent. 2.    Toss bag in washing machine with dirty laundry. 3.    Reuse wash bag 4–7 times — or more. 
    (Note: Number of loads vary due to water temperature, hardness, 
     washer type, duration of cycles, etc.)

how to use as a liquid detergent
for everyday cleaning Soap Nuts also are a safe replacement for many chemical-based, multi-purpose cleaners. Liquify the Soap Nuts and use the solution to clean windows, bathrooms, kitchens and floors. It can also serve as liquid hand soap, laundry soap for ultra delicates and shampoo. “Liquid Soap Nut Soak” Recipe 1.    Bring four cups of water to a boil in a heavy sauce pan with a lid.
2.    Turn off the heat and toss 6–8 Soap Nuts in the saucepan with 
    the hot water.
3.    Cover the sauce pan. Let it sit overnight.
4.    In the morning, remove and discard the remaining shells.
5.    Pour the cooled liquid into a container with a lid. Give your Soap Nut Soak a scent of essential oils — 
lemon or tea tree oil for bathroom cleanser, 
lavender for cold water laundry loads, and 
sweet orange for dishwasher cleaning liquid. This batch of Soap Nut Soak will 
wash at least 8 loads of laundry 
use 1/4 to 1/2 cup for each load).

Resources: http://planetgreen.discovery.com Wikipedia: Tetrachloroethylene

Kassie Kuehl is a respected leader in, and advocate for, natural health and beauty care. The founder of Kasia natural line of skin care, expert in ammonia-free hair color services, and stylist for Kasia Organic Salon, Kassie combines her experience as a nutrition coach with her ongoing Functional Medicine research to apply a whole of body “Beautiful Health’ approach to hair care and styling. More information and educational articles can be found at www.kasiaorganicsalon.com.