10 healthy alternatives vegetables for the most common food ingredients

When trying to eliminate from your diet some of the finest foods, such as white sugar or common salt, or when you decide to switch to a vegetarian or vegan diet, not always easy orientation as to what are the possible substitutes for products that until a short time before we were used to.

So here are some tips to guide you in the replacement of certain foods or culinary ingredients, in order to obtain a varied diet and healthy daily menu always rich and full.

1) Milk

Milk is probably the simplest and most immediate ingredient to replace when you decide to opt for all-vegetable diet. The substitute more similar to cow's milk in composition and in the preparations is as versatile as soy milk, which will preferably selected from organic and Italian, to avoid the presence of GMOs. The soymilk may also be prepared at home from soybeans of biological origin, following a simple recipe. It can be used as a basis for the preparation of white sauce, puddings, creams, tofu, yogurt, cream, and in any recipe is required the presence of milk. Its intake is suitable for all those who suffer from lactose intolerance, since the soy milk does not contain, in addition to be completely free of cholesterol. Other types of vegetable milk is rice milk, almonds, oats, coconut, sesame, pine nuts and hazelnuts.

2) Eggs

How to Replace eggs in the kitchen? It may seem almost impossible, but in reality it is not. For example, in preparing the batter for vegetables, eggs can be simply replaced by a batter made with water, oil and chickpea flour or rice flour, with the addition of breadcrumbs. The chickpea flour is a valid ally also for the preparation of omelet-headlights, an omelette without eggs, but not for this tasteless.

Regarding preparations sweets, the eggs are not necessary for the realization of creams based on almond milk or soy to decorate cakes or tarts. As a thickener you can use rice flour or corn starch. Potato starch and corn starch can be used to replace eggs in the preparation of cakes and pastries which require the use of yeast (pancakes, cake, apple pie, muffins, etc.). Expect to use one spoon for each egg omitted. Other possible substitutes for eggs are the flaxseed gel and a small amount of mashed banana or pumpkin in the dough to bake.

3) Butter

When you think you want to replace the butter immediately calls to mind the margarine. Unfortunately, not all margarines are healthy. Many of them contain palm oil and hydrogenated fats. Therefore better opt, in the moment in which there is a real need to use an ingredient of the same consistency of butter, margarines for biological or non-hydrogenated for butter soy.

When you cook, the butter may be replaced by extra virgin olive oil for savory preparations. It is also perfect for the dressing. In preparations sweets like cookies, pies and cakes, it is preferable to opt for a more delicate flavor oil, such as corn oil or sunflower seeds, to choose possibly of organic origin, cold pressed and paying attention to the so-called " smoke point. "

4) Cheese

The most immediate substitute for cheese is tofu. Tofu can be purchased in health food shops, but it is also usually in most supermarkets. If the tofu is consumed regularly, it can be prepared at home, to save money, from soybeans or soy milk and using as "rennet" white vinegar or apple, lemon juice or nigari, the curd to tofu typically used in the East.

Tofu is a very versatile ingredient, useful preparations for both savory and sweet, as it takes on the flavor of the ingredients with which it is combined. Besides the tofu, start to be on the market "cheese" useful plant to replace the mozzarella cheese spreads and municipalities. Some of them can be prepared also in home version, for example from tofu or soy milk. Who want to replace the parmesan, may acquire the nutritional yeast flakes or think of using almonds or chopped hazelnuts.

5) Meat

Depending on how it is used and prepared, tofu can be considered also as a meat substitute, for example in the preparation of burger or croquettes. Other meat substitutes can be tempeh, east product derived from the fermentation of soy or seitan, which can be purchased or prepared at home, something that allows you to save even more on spending, as every case is if you following a vegetarian or vegan diet.

In any case, we must remember that to replace the meat is possible, but not necessary, to resort to substitutes that are foreign to our tastes or our traditional recipes. Among the best meat substitutes are in fact legumes to which we are accustomed, such as beans, peas and lentils. They are perfect for the preparation of delicious vegetable burger.

6) Gelatin

Not everyone is aware of the fact that the industrial jellies commonly for sale to be used in the preparation of sweets, such as tarts, or salty foods, such as vegetables aspic, are not of plant origin, but animal. The product that is called "isinglass" contains among its ingredients substances of animal origin, such as bovine cartilage and pork rind. In this regard one should pay attention also to the ingredients contained in the gummy candies intended for small children, often rich in jellies of animal origin, as well as coloring agents, preservatives and waxy coatings.

A possible substitute completely the vegetable gelatins industrial animal is agar agar, a product in powder, flakes or wires to be used for the preparation of coverings for pies, puddings, aspic is that of fruit vegetables, jams and marmalades, " cheeses "vegetable and any other preparation that requires the use of a gelling agent.

7) Refined Sugar

Refined sugar or white sugar has become in recent decades an ingredient commonly used on our tables, considered as an essential complement to the preparation of cakes and to sweeten beverages. To refined sugar, derived from beet or cane sugar and subsequently bleached using complex industrial processes, which may include the use of lime and sulfur, may be replaced, for example, sugar cane raw integral, stevia, syrup corn or rice, maple syrup or agave, the concentrated apple juice or grape, amasake or maple syrup.

8) Mayonnaise

Mayonnaise is an egg substitute, light and completely free of cholesterol, in its variant housewife prepared from soy milk and oil sunflower seeds. Its taste is very similar to that of classical mayonnaise, but its content of fat is lower, due to the absence of eggs.

The soy mayonnaise can be used for example as a dressing for vegetable burger, potato salad, sandwiches and rice salads. And 'possible to find on the market a variant of mayonnaise plant, referred to as "mayonnaise rice" and just as tasty. Another alternative to mayonnaise as a sauce for seasoning, and always made entirely from plant is represented by a mustard sauce.

9) Cooking cream
Who want to replace the cream with a common variant of vegetable and lighter can turn to one of the many alternatives on the market, if care is to the ingredients listed on the label. Some varieties of cream labeled "plant origin", but in fact do contain milk or milk derivatives. In the shops of natural products can be found soy cream, rice or oats, all products completely free of milk or lactose, for use as seasoning or for the preparation of fillings in the same way in which it was employed the classic cream .

The vegetable cream also exists in sweet version to be mounted, in the variants coconut, rice or soybean, or it can be made in a manner similar to mayonnaise soy above, using sunflower oil or rice and soy milk sweetened (for example with agave). The cream preparations for salt can also be prepared at home. Find their recipes on our forum.

10) Family Kitchen

The abuse of common salt is increasingly linked by doctors onset of diseases such as hypertension. The salt is an element indispensable to the operation of our organism, but the variety industrial and refined which is on most of our tables, as well as in any restaurant, is not exactly the most healthy option, because the processes of manufacture, which the salt is subjected deprives him of most of the beneficial ingredients in them, making it nothing more than pure sodium chloride.

Fortunately, there are alternatives to common table salt, which is up big, which are represented by the sea salt and Himalayan pink salt, is now available in health food stores that, with a little 'luck even in the supermarket. The variant integral guarantees the presence of magnesium, copper, iron, iodine and other minerals. Other possible substitutes for salt to be used to flavor dishes are spices and herbs such as ginger, nutmeg, pepper, red pepper, chives, rosemary and oregano. And do not forget as an alternative completely natural coming from the gomasio Japanese cuisine, made from the seeds of sesemo organic.

Flour: 10 alternative uses

Often to solve minor problems home, to devote themselves to housework or to create entertainment for children at virtually no cost simply take a look in your pantry, where hardly absent an ingredient such as flour, which can be transformed into one of the your allies for cleaning dishes or for the preparation of modeling dough homemade.

The flour that will be used to put into practice the following suggestions can safely be also the finest commercially available, as well as the less expensive to purchase, so that even if used for alternative uses, does not endanger the portfolios.

To enrich your diet of fiber, amino acids, minerals and B vitamins, some experts recommend changing the use of flour 00 with less refined flour, semi-full or full. The use of flour 0, less refined, it is indicated for each preparation kitchen which is usually suggested the use of the variety 00. In any case, do not throw completely flour 00 already own and dedicate rather its alternative uses.

1) Clean the copper

For optimum cleaning and polishing of crockery and copper objects you can use a mixture by mixing equal parts of flour, salt and white vinegar. The compound must be applied to the stained parts, allowed to dry and then gently removed. Your copper objects will be perfectly polished and clean.

2) Cleaning of

The parties to showers, bathtubs and sinks made of stainless steel can be cleaned and polished more easily if it is made a first pass using a microfiber or cotton cloth sprinkled with a little 'flour. With this method it will be easier and quicker to remove residual soap and traces of moisture.

3) Remove the ants
If you prefer that the ants do not do their entry into your home by going through the cracks of doors or windows, try creating a boundary sprinkling of flour near the point where they prefer to enter. This creates a barrier that the ants should not exceed.

4) In the garden
The flour can be used to remove parasites from its own garden, with particular reference to potato plants and pumpkins, in the immediate vicinity of which it is possible to spread a bit of white flour as a substitute to the use of substances harmful to both the man and the environment such as pesticides.

5) Gloves kitchen
The flour can be used in case him do hard work to wear of kitchen gloves made of rubber or latex or in the case not be able to withstand their contact with the skin for very long. Not all gloves contain a protective layer, which can be created inside them sprinkling of white flour. Remember to always buy gloves resistant so they can be reused many times.

6) Cleaning of playing cards
The old decks of playing cards often bear the signs of aging and fingerprints of those who have used them. How to make their own cards as new? E 'enough to have some of them in a bag, pour a little' flour inside, close to the end and shake the whole. This will give you the cards looking much better.

7) antistress ball
From a balloon size is not excessive and easy meal you can make a stress ball at almost zero cost. Simply fill the balloon with flour using a funnel and trying to give your ball a spherical shape as much as possible. Its diameter should be at least four centimeters. Finally, close your balloon with a node that is as close as possible to limit the content of flour of your new stress ball.

8) Pasta salt

The flour can be used for home preparation of the paste of salt, so that the smaller can play with it in full safety and saving you purchase of modeling pastes industrial. Salt dough can be prepared very quickly using only four simple ingredients. Here you will find the complete recipe.

9) Glue the cardboard
The flour can be easily used for the preparation of an adhesive label for the papier-mâché, replacing the liquid glues commonly commercially. It may be prepared by dissolving 50 grams of flour with a little water at room temperature and then pouring it into a pot containing 800 ml of boiling water. Mix well to obtain a homogeneous mixture, let it cool and use with the help of a flat brush for gluing several layers of paper, which you have, for example, recovered from your old magazines.

10) Pasta modeling

Unlike the paste of salt, which must be baked or left to dry in the sun in the summer or on a heater in winter once made their own creations, the simple modeling dough can be prepared and reused multiple times to play by children, making sure to keep it in an airtight container. For its preparation we need to work together to obtain a homogeneous mixture, two glasses of hot water, two cups of flour, one cup of salt and two tablespoons of vegetable oil. The addition of two teaspoons of cream of tartar will make modeling dough more elastic. Mixture can be combined natural dyes, such as turmeric, cinnamon or cocoa powder.

Algae: the different types, properties' and how to use them

For centuries a staple food east, algae should be rediscovered in the West, as they are considered one of the healthiest foods that our planet has to offer, due to their richness in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants.

Algae can be found in some supermarkets, health food stores and organic food stores. The algae on the market in Italy come not only from Japan but also from Europe, especially from France, Ireland and the Scandinavian countries, a feature that makes them not only a food typically oriental. Here are some of the most common species of algae, accompanied by their properties and how to use them.

Arame (Eisenia bicyclis)

Arame seaweed is particularly rich in potassium. Its intake can be useful by those who practice sports in order to limit the risk of muscle cramps. It has antiviral properties and can help to keep under control your weight. And 'the seaweed from the more delicate flavor, a characteristic that makes mqaggiormente akin to Western tastes.

Before being consumed, the seaweed arame needs to be left to soak in water at room temperature or to be brought to the boil for a few minutes. Algae arame can be boiled and eaten as a side dish, seasoned eg sesame oil and soy sauce, or be accompanying an outline prepared with carrots and onions.

Dulse (Palmira palmata)

The seaweed dulse seaweed is a characteristic red color. It 's the most iron-rich among the algae and at the same time has a high content of potassium and magnesium. It grows along the rocky coasts of the Atlantic (Britain, Ireland, Scotland and Scandinavia) and Pacific (Japan). During low tide can be harvested by hand. It is then left to dry in the sun and wind before they can be consumed or sold.

It 'a seaweed spicy taste, which can be used as a seasoning for vegetables and legumes, as a complement to salads and in the preparation of soups, but also dishes cereals. It goes particularly well with the oats. It 'also used for the preparation of hot sauces to accompany with a variety of dishes. It does not require soaking before cooking.

Hiziki (Sargassum fusiforme)

Algae hiziki (or iziki) are recognized by their dark color and their shape that makes it look like thin strings. Have a high content of both iron and calcium, which is one of the major plant sources. Suffice it to say that 100 grams of dried seaweed hiziki can contain up to 1400 milligrams of calcium.

Algae hiziki must be left to soak for ten minutes before being used for culinary preparations. Their flavor is combined with that of many vegetables, which may accompany cooking in the preparation of side dishes and soups. Can also be used to flavor pasta or rice, accompanied by vegetables such as broccoli, onions and carrots.

Kanten (Agar agar, Gracilaria verrucosa)

Kanten seaweed, Japanese red alga, is mainly used because of the gelling power of the substances contained in it, extracted after boiling and drying the same. The algae extracts kanten used for the preparation of agar agar, a natural gelling completely plant to be used in place of gelatin industrial animals.

The agar agar is presented in the form of powder, flakes, flakes or bars and can be used as a gelling agent in any preparation require the use of what is called "fish glue". E 'therefore suitable to thicken puddings, jam, marmalade, aspic and other preparations, both sweet and savory.

Kelp (Macrocystis pyrifera)

The kelp is characteristic of the coasts of the Atlantic and Scandinavia. It has a dark brown color and a salty smell once dried. Is recommended for its diuretic effects, as an adjunct to combat cellulite and to regulate metabolism. Contains iodine, phytosterols, polyphenols and vitamins A, B1, B2, C, D and E. Has remineralizing and anti-inflammatory properties.

It is usually found on the market as seaweed dried or in the form of tablets or tablets as a dietary supplement of iodine. Its intake can be indicated in cases of obesity due to hypothyroidism so as to facilitate the proper functioning of the metabolism and the loss of excess weight.

Klamath (Aphanizomenon flos aquae)

The alga is considered Klamath algae can make the most amount of essential fatty acids and omega 3 omega6. It also presents a non-negligible amount of protein and is considered a food particularly energy. And 'considered an excellent tonic in cases of fatigue, convalescence and rehabilitation.

E 'can find the alga klamath supplement form in tablets, but also simply in dried form and stored so that it can maintain all its beneficial characteristics, which make it particularly suitable as a natural anti-inflammatory and immunoregulatory properties as a food by and antioxidants.

Kombu (Laminaria japonica)

The kombu seaweed is rich in iodine, useful for the functioning of the thyroid and for the regulation of metabolism. Contains substances that can donate to this food anticoagulant properties, help to prevent the formation of blood clots. The kombu seaweed is a particularly rich in calcium and minerals.

A piece of kombu seaweed may be used during the soaking of pulses and during their cooking, as its content of glutamic acid is able to make them softer and more easily digestible. Can also be added to the preparation of vegetable broth and soups, as well as to soy milk prepared at home, to enrich it with calcium. It 'good to flavor rice, pasta and vegetables. The kombu used for soaking beans can be left to dry and re-used.

Nori (Porphyra species)

And 'the alga richer in proteins, the content of which is equal to 50% of the weight of the dry product. Presents considerable amounts of plant fiber and omega3 fatty acids, in addition to being a source of vitamin C. It also contains taurine, which is useful for its law enforcement efforts against cholesterol, as well as iron, calcium, vitamin A and B1.

The nori seaweed is the most well-known as it is used for the preparation of maki Japanese. Does not require special devices before being used, but can be useful moisten it with water before using it for the preparation of classic rolls of rice and algae. The nori seaweed are excellent accompanied by wasabi and soy sauce. Can be left to marinate in soy sauce, sesame oil or sunflower oil and lemon juice and then be used as a seasoning for vegetables and cereals.

Spirulina (Arthrospira platensis)

Spirulina is a micro-green-blue, used for the preparation of natural supplements purifying and detoxifying effect. It 'a freshwater alga rich in proteins are easily assimilated by the body. Presents no vitamin C, but contains vitamins of the B group, vitamin A and D, as well as a particular type of calcium plant to which have been attributed anticancer properties.

It can be found for sale as an ingredient of gomasio, seasoning consisting of whole sea salt, toasted sesame seeds and spirulina powder, which with the same ingredients can be prepared in a home. Can be purchased in the form of powder or flakes and used as a dressing, or in the form of biological supplement in tablet form.

Wakame (Undaria pinnatifida)

The wakame seaweed is considered particularly beneficial for women because of its content of calcium and magnesium plant, useful in the prevention of osteoporosis, as well as for its diuretic properties, which make it suitable to counter any swelling caused by the accumulation of liquids. One of its pigments, fucoxanthin, was subjected to scientific studies carried out to verify its role in counteracting insulin resistance.

The wakame seaweed can be used for the preparation of traditional Japanese miso soup or vegetable soups or vegetables. Must be rehydrated in water for about ten minutes ere to be added to other foods during cooking, or it can be passed briefly in the oven and then crumbled on dishes. It 'great salads and vegetables in stews.

Air Fresheners: 8 natural and non-toxic alternatives that actually work

Once again, as good eco-consumers do not let yourself become intoxicated by the fragrant essences that have nothing to do with the nature if not confuse us. Are the chemical deodorants interior to attract our attention: the so-called "airfresheners" In fact, the air release Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs), chemicals "irritating to eyes, nose, throat, allergenic when inhaled or even suspected of carcinogenicity» as confirmed by the Ministry of Health in the Directorate General for Healthcare.

If the effects are negative for the environment and for our health because there are laws that regulate the matter by requiring manufacturers to report to label the ingredients used in deodorants for indoor environments? In this regard, the EU approved the Reach the new European regulation for the registration, evaluation and authorization of chemicals by banning recently a blacklist of over 40 chemicals that can be placed on the market prior authorization ECHA Agency European chemical industry.

 The six most harmful of the list (DEHP, BBP and DBP, musk xylene, the MDA and HBCDD) belong to the family of so-called phthalates resulting oil harmful to health and the environment, contained in deodorants and common in other products on the market (children's toys, fabric softeners, paints, plastics ...). For air fresheners, in particular, the test substance charge is recognized DEHP harmful to health since 2007 (the year of the entry into force of REACH) thanks to a survey conducted by Gina Solomon of the Natural Resources Defense Council.

That said, it is not just for natural alternatives such as opt?

1) ESSENTIAL OILS

- THE GRAPEFRUIT

Extracted by the method of cold pressing of the peel, has antiseptic and refreshing for the home. It has a pleasant citrus scent of clean and a pleasant feeling of freshness. Alternatively, if you do not like the essence of grapefruit can choose other oils for the home (lavender, lemon, pine).

- AT THE 'GREEN

The essential oil green tea do-it-yourself is obtained by mixing in a spray bottle:

water
half lemon juice
a few drops of tea tree oil.
It 's good, fresh, natural, antiseptic and antifungal ... more than that!

2) SPEAKER FOR CANDLES

A house invaded by candles has a style that suits you? Try this speaker candles olive green give a modern twist to furnishings maintaining delicious scents indoor ... Aura Cacia, a manufacturer specializing in aromatherapy products, will give you a hand for every need, and get lost in the fragrance you like the most. Another house in # # mce_temp_url interesting Puressentiel Italy. Its essential oils can be purchased here.

3) NATURAL SPRAY FOR BATH

 How to eliminate odors in the bathroom? If you do not have time to light a match, the JR Watkins Aloe and Green Tea Room Spray is for you. Partner of the Natural Product Association (NPA) from the packaging is entirely recyclable. The bottle has a natural content of 700 ml of the fresh essence of Aloe and Green Tea. All at a price less than 15 euro. If you prefer you can also try to produce it from you by following these simple instructions

4) NATURAL SPRAY-CLEAR ODOR

Clean Air Room Spray is made from Way Out Wax. The formula of its success lies in its ability to neutralize odors by binding particles "bad" because of unpleasant body odor. The variants are scented with lavender, bergamot, lemon and orange. Other eco-friendly products can not miss are the fragrant mixtures for the interior of the Friends of Nature

5) DEODORANT TO ZEOLITE

Zeolite is a mineral that does not cover odors but eliminates them. The deodorant zeolite-based capture smells musty, absorb excess moisture and are usable not only for the cleaning of carpets (they are often marketed as a deodorant only for carpets) but also for the house in general. They are completely odorless and natural. The zeolite used for detergents and for environments is odorless and effective. The products are well tolerated even by people with MCS multiple chemical sensitivity syndrome that manifests with disorders of the respiratory, digestive and nervous system caused by continuous exposure to chemical fragrances.

6) A NICE BUNCH OF EUCALYPTUS


Nothing better than a bunch of dead branches of eucalyptus Room: leaves a fresh and clean for a long time, of course, without prejudicing the rights of the koala!

7) BAGS FOR CEDAR CABINETS

What about the bags containing flowers and fruits of cedar to flavor our closets? Instead of the usual lavender changed as well with the cedar: organic cotton bags are available as an alternative to potpourri or chemical mothballs.

8) STICKS PALOSANTO

The Palo Santo is a typical tree of the Pacific coast of Central and South America, called 'Holy' because it blooms at Christmas and its wood is characterized by a strong natural fragrance that is released by simply turning the stick. The trees are not cut to derive the aromatic wood but are harvested only the parts that fall naturally dried, remaining on the ground from 4 to 10 years.
It 'was during this period that the wood matures its essence. Although the collection is carried out under the control of indigenous peoples since ancient times used the Palo Santo and for its many beneficial properties such as physical and psycho-spiritual remedy for purifying the air of negativity and annoying insects.

Finally always remember to ventilate frequently indoors and avoid or reduce the use of fragrant substances if of uncertain composition.

How to use spices, flowers and herbs to perfume the home course

In the market there are many deodorants and fragrances for the home, but most of them are not made of natural components, but from synthetic perfumes that may help cause respiratory allergies or be poorly tolerated by those who suffer from asthma. Furthermore, not all may like the scent too strong that they often release. The alternative is the use of spices, flowers and herbs, no side effects and that will allow you to perfume the house for a long time and almost zero cost.

1) cloves and cardamom

Spices such as cloves, the cinnamon sticks, cardamom seeds and fennel can be brought to a boil in a saucepan filled with water to release immediately smells good in your kitchen. The liquid can be filtered and poured into a small spray container so that you can spray in the rooms of the house.

2) pine and rosemary

Sprigs of rosemary, pine needles and pine cones, accompanied by cinnamon sticks can be used in the fireplace with the wood to make a fire so that they can release their scent, which you can enjoy along with the warmth of your home in the cold winter evenings.

3) Peppermint and jasmine

Mint and jasmine, but also sage, honeysuckle, rosemary, lavender and oregano can be grown at home in pots, keeping them near a bright window. Will ensure the presence of a good smell in the rooms that host them, when you do not have the ability to take advantage of fresh and fragrant flowers to use as centerpieces.

4) Rose and Licorice

Licorice sticks, cinnamon sticks, vanilla pods, but also lavender flowers, dried rose petals, cloves, dried flower heads of chamomile and rosemary sprigs can be combined as desired to create bowls of potpourri to be placed in different rooms of the house. Their fragrance can be extended by adding a few drops of essential oil of lavender or sweet orange.

5) sage, mint and lavender

Lavender flowers and dried leaves of sage and mint can be used for the preparation of scented sachets to store in drawers or cupboards to scent clothes and linen. The bags can also be hung with the help of some tapes to the handles of the windows or furniture, in such a way that their perfume can also spread inside the rooms of the house.

6) leaves and citrus peel

The leaves and peel of citrus fruits such as oranges, lemons and tangerines can be cut into strips and laid on the radiators so that they can release their scent in the rooms of the house. When they are dried, they can be used even after they have been crushed or chopped, for the composition of a pot-pourri.

7) Oregano and Marjoram

The leaves of oregano, mint and marjoram can be left to dry and then crushed before being placed in a glass jar without lid to be placed in the bathroom, in the basement or near the shoe to counter any bad odors.

8) Flowers of lavender and vinegar

Let steep for three weeks four tablespoons of lavender flowers in a glass jar containing 500 milliliters of white vinegar or apple. Keep the jar in the dark and remember to shake it at least once a day. Have obtained a lavender-scented vinegar to be used pure or diluted in water to clean the tiles and the bathroom, leaving a pleasant smell in the rooms.

9) Cloves, cinnamon and salt

You can make use of cloves, cinnamon powder and salt to the mixture at the same time able to absorb odors and scent your home. Mix in a bowl just 200 grams of salt, two teaspoons of cinnamon powder and one tablespoon of cloves. Also add two tablespoons of baking soda if you want to enhance the deodorizing effect. Transferred all in a glass jar or in a bowl in wood for potpourri and positioned where necessary.

10) Mint and lemon balm

An infusion prepared from fresh or dried leaves of mint and lemon balm can be combined in equal parts white vinegar to the mixture is fragrant liquid to be used for cleaning mirrors and windows. Everything must be poured into a spray container. Its use will help leave your rooms pleasantly perfumed.

20 alternative uses for coffee

The coffee is certainly one of the most popular and most widely consumed beverages in our country. But what to do if it happens and how to reuse leftovers in a clever coffee grounds? Here are some suggestions in this regard, that may be helpful in cleaning the house, in the kitchen, in the care of your beauty and your pets, and your flower garden.So for coffee, the grains and as far as what is left after the preparation of this drink, there are many alternative reuse, which may or may help prevent small amount of waste ending up in the bin directly damp.

1) Deodorant for refrigeratorThe coffee powder, such as sodium bicarbonate, possesses the ability to absorb odors inside your refrigerator. Simply riporne a few tablespoons in a small container to hold off the formation of any unpleasant odors, which will disappear as if by magic.

2) Reduce celluliteThe creams commonly for sale against cellulite often include among their ingredients caffeine, capable of acting positively against the capillary circulation and the stagnation of liquids. You can get your cream do-it-yourself mixing the powder with sweet almond oil. Rub the mixture critical points before the shower.

3) Remove odors from handsMincing garlic, slicing or peeling an onion leeks, you may happen that their smell is translocated persistently on your hands. Then rub with a little coffee powder (also recovered from a fund) before passing under the water to solve the problem.

4) Homemade CompostAdvanced coffee or coffee grounds can be used to enrich your compost or soil to be used for your plants at the time of transfer, especially in the case of land they require rather acids, characteristic that the coffee will be able to donate their thanks to ability to release nitrogen into the soil.

5) For shiny hairIf advanced coffee, let it cool and dilute it with water and apply it on the hair with the aid of a spray container before washing. Let sit for about twenty minutes and then passed to the shampoo. Repeat treatment once a week to get better results. The treatment, if done regularly, will give the hair delicate greenish color of coffee.

6) Natural DyeingOf very strong coffee may be used for the dyeing of fabrics and textiles in linen or cotton, which will have to be left immersed in the liquid, with addition of water and brought to a boil, for one night. The treatment can be repeated according to the color that is desired.

7) pincushionA small amount of ground coffee or coffee beans can be used to make stuffing a pincushion handmade with scraps of fabric recovered. The coffee also protect your pins and needles from rusting.

8) Clean the fireplaceThe removal of ash from the fireplace can be facilitated by sprinkling it on the coffee grounds which will help in removing it so that it does not rise at the time to act with bucket and shovel or vacuum cleaner.

9) Natural scrubYou can achieve a natural scrub for the body, which will help in removing dead skin cells, by mixing a tablespoon of ground coffee and half a tablespoon of olive oil. Mix and massaged into the skin before showering.

10) Remove the antsTo remove the ants from the entry points of your home, sprinkle the ground coffee grounds previously allowed to dry. You can do the same in the vicinity of the nest, even directly pouring the coffee. The smell should discourage them.

11) Fertilize plantsPlants that like acidic soil will thank you if cospargerete near their roots of coffee used. You can also use the remnants of coffee left in the cups, after being diluted. The nutrients found in coffee promote the growth and flowering azaleas, rhododendrons and blueberry bushes.

12) abrasive cleanerYou can transform the common dish detergent in a cream abrasive to be used for cleaning hard surfaces or to remove stubborn dirt from pots and pans. Simply add the coffee powder, also already used and allowed to dry, to a small amount of detergent and mix before use.

13) Air Freshener for CarIf you love the smell of coffee, you can make a product do-it-yourself deodorant and perfume for the car using it to fill a small bag made of tulle or recovering the fabric of old pantyhose. For its implementation, you can follow the images and instructions on this link.

14) Growing mushroomsMany are not aware, but the coffee grounds can be used for the cultivation of mushrooms, a practice that the start-up California Bttr Ventures has turned into a real sustainable business. Simple kit for the self-production of mushrooms that make use of the use of coffee can be purchased online.

15) FleaThe coffee grounds are considered an excellent repellent for fleas. Can be rubbed on the dog's coat after bathing. The hair should be brushed once dry. The smell of coffee will be much less annoying than many common flea.

16) Cleaning of the drainsThe coffee can be diluted with water and poured down the drains of sinks, bathtubs and toilets to ensure their cleanliness and to ward off the odor persisted.

17) Keep sugar or saltA handful of coffee beans may be placed on the bottom of the jar in which the sugar or sugar preserved so prevemire the formation of excessive moisture. A similar suggestion is also true in the case of the salt.

18) Feeding earthworms in your compostIf you have decided to build a compost bin from the balcony to the formation of compost takes advantage of the action of earthworms placed inside it, do not be afraid to throw your coffee grounds. It appears that the worms will appreciate a lot, and thanks to them that they can increase their efficiency.

19) Remove scratches from mobileIf you have furniture or dark wood frames that appear hopelessly scratched, try to soak a cloth or a brush in a cup of instant coffee and use the drink as a natural dyeing until the scratched resume a shade as close as possible to that of the surrounding surface.

20) Secret IngredientUse the coffee as the secret ingredient in the kitchen for the preparation of ices, sorbets, cakes, creams, biscuits and sweets of various kinds. Regalerete them an unexpected twist. Some have even tried to use it as an ingredient in the preparation of risotto unexpected. Experiment with new recipes never hurts!

15 tips to find well-being and mood immediately

After a weekend of tension like the one just passed us all feel a po'sottotono, also because of the bad weather of the day today, with the month of May a cold and rainy for anything that does not seem to herald the approach of summer, the heat and holidays.It 'important to remember that to take care of our health and feel just a bit' better is often not necessary to completely escape from the routine, but simply retrieve an instant of time during the day or evening to devote to the implementation of some small gestures that can only improve our mood and our health, helping to make us feel immediately at peace with ourselves, with others and with all that surrounds us. Here are some tips to put into practice as of today, even once!1) The power of a hugEmbracing you care and are just waiting to get a hug from you will help you make them feel better both you and yourself. The embrace causes the release of hormones that regulate the body well-being as oxytocin, which will help you to ward off sadness and negative feelings.

2) A walk in the parkTonight, before you go home from work, treat yourself to a walk in the park, such as a park, for at least twenty minutes. Notify the family of your small delay or decide to bring everyone with you for a walk before or after dinner. It will be an activity to do together that you can put fun and that will allow you to absorb the positive effects caused by the proximity of the trees and the ability to walk on the grass, on unpaved paths or near cultivated fields.

3) A colorful saladFight the greyness of the day concludendola tasting a salad colorful and cheerful, which will help make you a good mood they already its preparation and that will give your body a boost of beneficial vitamins. Consume more fruits should become a good habit to practice every day, maybe In preparing the portions to take to work for a snack of children.

4) Just a glass of waterSometimes we are so busy in performing our daily chores to forget that our body needs water for its proper functioning. Some mild symptoms, such as headaches or dry skin, could disappear simply by drinking some more. If you are in a bad mood and coffee makes you nervous, try to replace it with a glass of cold water, which will make you feel instantly refreshed.

5) A relaxing rideA ride or a relaxing bike ride will help you relax your mind, allowing you to download the road every negative thought. Our body was created for movement and all his muscles, including the heart, they need to be kept in training. Often we forget that, then we must remember to learn how to move more.6) MeditationThe positive effects of meditation have been confirmed recently in a study conducted in Australia, which has brought to light the benefits for both the body and mind, with particular reference to the possibility to hold off negative thoughts and to curb stress. You can find the time to dedicate to it just before going to sleep.

7) A healthy smoothieRecharge your mood, energy, vitamins and antioxidants in a single step, ie preparing and drinking a smoothie made with fruit and / or vegetables according to your tastes, maybe trying to see one of our fifteen proposals.8) A deep breathAgainst discontent and agitation there is a remedy too often underestimated. It's take a few moments to take some deep breaths that will prove to be able to immediately re-establish a sense of peace and calm, helping to slow labored breathing and heartbeat accentuated because of anxiety. Five minutes of deep breaths during the day will help to reassure you and the evening will allow you to get to sleep and rest better.

9) A fragrant flowerTake a moment to smell the scent of a flower means treat yourself to a short treatment free natural aromatherapy that will allow the body to immediately enter into contact with the essence of it unleashed, giving us an immediate feeling of well-being thanks to a simple gesture that perhaps not accomplish some time.10) A healthy snackThe moment you realize that they are victims of a decline in mood or energy, is thought to be positive to resort to a sugary snack, the effect of which, however, will disappear within a very short time. So better to opt for healthier foods, such as almonds, walnuts and hazelnuts, which, thanks to their content of magnesium, potassium and trace elements are able to facilitate our well-being both physically and emotionally.

11) A yoga session
Yoga is a discipline sweet can put you in touch with the mind and body to act positively on both. Practicing yoga provides an immediate relaxation and at the same time a sudden energy recovery, as well as give some moments of rest to the mind, that in practice the exercises will detach himself from the daily concerns.

12) Positive Thinking (indeed, ten!)Take a pen and paper and try to list ten positive aspects of your life, things or people whose presence you want to express a special thank you. Focus on feelings and pleasant experiences will help you get a more optimistic vision of the turns, despite the difficulties.

13) A good deedThink of a simple gesture that could help to give a positive turn in the day of a person of your knowledge and make sure you put it into practice as soon as possible. This may be to make a phone call, to prepare something good with your hands or to arrange a little surprise. The happiness of the recipient will only be yours.

14) A cup of teaTo be sipped alone in a moment of complete relaxation, to drown the sorrows of tea every day, or to enjoy with friends, chatting happily, possibly alongside the homemade cookies. Do not forget the possibility of preparing a herbal tea or an infusion of charge!

15) A journey to scheduleIt can be as simple as a trip to take in one of the weekend in the company of family or friends, maybe moving to on public transport and going to discover places close to your place of residence, but so far you had ignored (lakes, museums , parks ...). The mere thought of planning a short trip and decide to give you a break from the routine will help you feel calmer before departure.