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7 tips for raising children with diabetes

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cotton candy, girl merry go round

Facing and accepting your child’s diagnosis with diabetes is rarely easy. Unless you were able to catch the signs of diabetes early on, a scary and traumatizing experience all too often leads to the discovery that your child needs to take special precautions when eating. There are ways you can manage the disease with diet obviously.

It’s important to remember that—while childhood diabetes is a difficult disease to manage—that you stand with others. In the United States alone, it’s reported that nearly 200,000 children deal with diabetes and most live perfectly healthy lives.

Consider the following seven tips in order to successfully raise your child with diabetes:

Tell everyone—who needs to know

Diabetes often comes with the need to check in on blood sugar levels multiple times per day. That means that pretty much anyone partially responsible for your child’s healthcare—especially those who give food to your child—need to know about specific considerations when caring for your child.

Consider taking one-on-one with teachers and coaches—explaining to them what they need to do and who they need to call in case of an emergency.

It’s important to remind the influences in your child’s life that—while they may have diabetes—they deserve to be treated like any other child in their care. Don’t single out your child or demand special preferences due to your child’s diagnosis.

As important as it is to tell healthcare providers and teachers about the diagnosis, it isn’t necessary to make a grand public announcement. Respect the agency of your child and allow them to tell who they want—when they want.

Consider seeing a family therapist

Since childhood diabetes often involves a greater involvement with your child, you may experience fatigue and anxiety while taking on the extra responsibilities. Others in your family—such as older and younger siblings—may also dislike this extra care, and perceive it as favoritism.

Remember that mental healthcare is just as important as physical healthcare.

 Booking an appointment with a family therapist will give you the tools to understand and relate to the social difficulties that may come with a diabetes diagnosis.

If you’re experiencing problems within your family unit, or even if it’s not an issue, it never hurts to allow a medical professional to try and find new ways for your family to grow together while you transition into newfound responsibilities.

Find conscious ways to punish diabetes-related issues

Your child may know they need to eat certain foods, or check in on their blood sugar regularly, but they are still children. You may find your child willingly disobeying rules that were meant to keep them safe.

The American Diabetes Association (ADA) provides a helpful guide for parents on how to navigate punishments for diabetes-related behavioral issues. This is an especially difficult topic to address, as all too often a child feels as if they are being punished for having diabetes—as opposed to any other behavioral infraction.

If you’ve talked to a family therapist, this would be a good discussion to have to help mitigate disciplinary action and help both sides understand and realize that you still need to be the parent.

Forgive yourself—and your child

There will be hard days ahead—times when your child feels abnormal or broken, or when you’re struggling to balance all of the responsibilities of parenthood on top of a diabetes diagnosis. This is especially true if the child had a diet which was loaded with sugar and unhealthy foods. Sometimes in broken homes sweets are used for comfort and nurturing or they are handed out easily by grandma as a way she shows her love. 

Don’t be overbearing

Diabetes is a disease that needs constant attention, but that doesn’t mean sacrificing your child’s relative freedom in exchange for your peace of mind.

Learn to take a step back when possible. There’s no need to call teachers at every minor worry or inconvenience along the way. Being too overbearing on your children—with diabetes or without—only serves to breed dishonestly, deception, and distrust.

Don’t miss your appointments

As with all illnesses, it’s important to take your child in to see their physician or doctor when needed. These routine check-ups may seem superfluous at first, but never allow laziness or distain keep you from keeping up with your child’s healthcare.

Don’t deny your doctor’s expertise. Chances are, they only want what’s best for your child.

Let them handle it

As your child grows up, relinquishing control on their lives is never a comfortable transition. For children with diabetes, this may mean allowing your child to manage their diabetes without your intervention or knowledge. Since your child will eventually be dealing with the disease on their own, it is crucial that you let them take small steps towards independence.

Update 2022: new sugar-blocking gum based on the gurmar plant may help sweet addictions in children in adults and serve as a way to reduce blood sugar spikes. 

Solving world hunger with hybrid potatoes

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solyntaCan hybrid breeding effectively mitigate aspects of climate change? Across the planet, communities face a constant struggle to produce enough food to survive. Harsh climates, insect infestation, and a lack of affordable fertilizers and pesticides mean that crop yields are far lower in developing countries. The scientists at Solynta believe potatoes may be the solution.

One in eight people around the world are chronically hungry, and in the future things may get even worse. Human  population is expected to increase significantly, and climate change is making it harder than ever to grow healthy crops in more and more regions.

Netherlands-based Solynta is a leading seed breeding company which has developed an innovative technology for targeted breeding of one of the world’s fourth largest staple crops – potatoes. The mighty spud is relatively cheap, highly nutritious, and already eaten in most countries. The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) recommends potato cultivation for countries seeking to increase their food security, as they can be grown most anywhere.

Compared to other crops like rice, corn and wheat, potatoes produce far more food per hectare, and far more food per liter of water used, helping feed large numbers of people while also mitigating the effects of climate change. According to the FAO, up to 85 percent of the plant is edible human food, compared to around 50% in cereals.

Potatoes are highly nutritious and contain more of the 21 vitamins and trace elements than any other staple crops. They are rich in carbohydrates, making them a good source of energy, and boast the highest protein content (around 2.1 percent on a fresh weight basis) in the family of root and tuber crops. They are also rich in vitamin C and contain a fifth of the recommended daily value of potassium.

Currently, most potato farmers are forced to rely on poor-quality ‘seed tubers’ – specially-grown potato tubers which are used as starting material, but which are easily perishable and are infected with pests and diseases. The result is low yields.

Solynta’s “True Seed” technology has the potential to help solve all these problems, by delivering potatoes which can double yields over seed-tubers; are more resistant to drought; and require fewer harmful pesticides and fungicides. These hybrid seeds are completely disease-free and are also far easier to store and transport than tubers. On average, 25 grams of True Seeds produces the same crop as 2,500 kilos of seed tubers, resulting in significant reductions in transport costs and carbon emissions.

Agriculture consumes more than 2/3 of total available freshwater through irrigation. Depletion of water reserves could cause a 40% supply gap by 2030. An increase in the proportion of potato in the diet would alleviate pressure on water resources. Also, by breeding natural resistances into the crop there will be a significant reduction (>60%) of pesticide use and therefor limit the runoff of pesticides into the water system.

Shipping giant Maersk seeks start-ups via Israeli innovation hub

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theDOCKMaersk, the world’s largest container shipping company, has teamed up with theDOCK Innovation Hub, a startup accelerator in Israel that focuses on innovative maritime technologies. The Danish-based shipper will use the partnership as an opportunity to meet start-ups working on new technology specific to logistics industry improvements.

Powerful photos address violence against children

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controversial art

The Untouchables, a 2013 photo series produced by Cuban artist Erik Ravelo, is again making the rounds on social media – perhaps prompted by the latest American school shootings, or more likely because powerful art refuses to die.

Dealing with chronic pain? Try a cannabis suppository treatment

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More than 158.8 million people around the globe are using cannabis, according to the United Nations (U.N.). This is approximately 3.8 percent of the global population and the figure will undoubtedly grow as cannabis legalization spreads. First used for medical purposes sometime around 2900 B.C in China, medical cannabis is a reliable solution for patients who are suffering from chronic pain.

Chronic pain is just one example of the medical problems that can be relieved using herbs and infused products from a trusted dispensary, such as the Green Cross SF. Since cannabis is a natural, non-addictive treatment that has never been linked to death (unlike addictive opioid pain relievers,) it is worth exploring your options when it comes to getting your recommended daily dose. One such method that is proven to be highly effective at relieving the symptoms of pain is a rectal cannabis suppository.

What is a Rectal Cannabis Suppository?

For thousands of years, plant-based medicines and suppositories have been referenced in recorded history. In fact, excavations of ancient Heidelberg Castle resulted in the discovery of age-old suppository molds! Medical cannabis is gaining more popularity by the day, as scientists, researchers and advocates reveal the plant’s medicinal benefits to the world.

Rectal plant suppositories might not be anything new, but they are a fairly new addition to the menu of many medical marijuana dispensaries. This is because research is ongoing and until sufficient evidence about rectal cannabis suppositories was gathered, dispensaries were not so open about selling these products.

Although a rectal cannabis suppository might not be everyone’s cup of tea, it is a worthwhile solution for chronic pain sufferers. Why, you ask? Well, when compared to smoking cannabis, which transfers approximately 15 percent of the essential cannabinoids to the bloodstream, a rectal cannabis suppository can deliver as much as 35 percent! What’s more, suppositories work quickly, with most providing pain relief in as little as 10 minutes.

The Benefits of Treating Chronic Pain with Cannabis

 As much as 20 percent of the global population endures chronic pain on a daily basis, according to The World Health Organization. These statistics demonstrate how a significant percentage of people on the planet suffer from some type of chronic pain. Examples of the most common types of chronic pain include:

  • Chronic fatigue syndrome
  • Back pain
  • Neck pain
  • Fibromyalgia
  • Sciatica

Numerous other conditions fall under the chronic pain category. In an attempt to reduce symptoms, patients are spending money on pharmaceutical drugs, such as dangerous opioid medications like Oxycodone. Pharmaceutical industry data has exposed how the market is worth an estimated $13.2 billion in the U.S. alone. The data also shows how as much as $294.5 billion is being spent on chronic pain medication and treatment every year.

Medical cannabis, on the other hand, can be obtained for a reasonable price. Since this type of natural pain reliever tends to be more effective, the long-term savings may be substantial for someone who switches from pharmaceutical drugs to cannabis. With so many options available to medical cannabis users, the versatility of this treatment option is a major appeal for consumers.

Is cannabis a proven treatment for chronic pain?

Raphael Mechoulam, TCH, medical cannabis, CBD
Chemist Raphael Mechoulam from Hebrew University was the first to isolate THC and CBD and has authored many papers on its ability to heal epilepsy and pain.

Indeed it is and the evidence to support medical cannabis use is stacking up by the day. This is not to say that scientists know every single thing about the plant, because 4,000 years after early civilizations started using medical cannabis, research is still taking place to determine precisely which conditions cannabis can be used to treat.

However, one study on cannabinoids for pain relief showed a major decrease in pain when high doses were administered to a group of healthy volunteers. Cannabis for clinical pain has been widely studied, with one systematic review of cannabinoids revealing up to 37 percent reduction in pain among 2,454 patients who underwent 28 randomized trials.

 How to Diagnose Chronic Pain

 If you think that you might need to buy medical-grade cannabis products from a medical cannabis dispensary in SF, make sure you get a clear diagnosis beforehand. Any type of pain that persists for longer than 12 weeks is usually defined as chronic pain. The problem may manifest itself in one or multiple body parts for a number of reasons, such as an injury or underlying genetic condition. Visit a Doctor for a diagnosis and make sure you get a certificate of recommendation. This is necessary to obtain a prescription for rectal cannabis suppositories.

 Finding a Licensed Dispensary to Buy Cannabis Products

marijuana, Rif Mountains, Morocco, northern Morocco, legalize marijuana in Morocco

Certain standards and regulations must be met to ensure cannabis products are safe for human use. Avoid working with a medical marijuana dispensary if they cannot inform you about how the plants were cultivated and processed, before being sold inside a licensed store. Thorough testing ensures that the cannabis products have not been contaminated with pesticides, solvents and other hazardous substances.

Due to the fact cannabis is highly absorbent, the environment in which dispensary products are sold will make a difference to its quality. Some other considerations to think about when finding a licensed dispensary include location (think about convenience,) product selection and pricing.

40 United Kingdom eco destinations worthy to see

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floating home
Conceptual floating home in London. Alternative and ecological living.

Home to more than 60 million people, the U.K is the first stop on any European road trip. Its capital, London, is perhaps one of the most famous cities on the planet and has a population of eight million. Enclosed by the North Sea on its North side, the Atlantic Ocean to the West, the U.K is also a main point of travel to other must-see European countries like Iceland and Norway.

Fancy a British break away with the family? Perhaps you are headed to the United Kingdom on a business trip and want to see what this territory has to offer? Whatever you desires for discovering the sovereign state, don’t do it without first familiarizing yourself with the top U.K. destinations.

Below, we have cleverly compiled a list of the top 10 attractions in all 4 countries in the United Kingdom that you need to see on your travels.

England

The Eden Project is a popular visitor attraction in Cornwall, England, UK. Inside the two biomes are plants that are collected from many diverse climates and environments.

It is the birthplace of Shakespeare and has evolved into a multicultural country with a thriving economy. Here’s what you need to see during your trip to England:

  1. Tower of London – Formerly the Fortress and Royal Palace of Her Majesty, the historical Tower of London sits on the northern banks of the River Thames.
  2. Big Ben – Book your flights from Dublin to London through Expedia if you want to see Ireland first, but do not miss Big Ben! Why would you? The clock tower was built way back in 1859 and its Gothic Revival architecture is incredibly intricately designed.
  3. Buckingham Palace Another major attraction in London is where the UK’s sovereigns had officially resided since 1837. The Queen makes frequent appearances inside the palace for events. Public tours of the State Rooms open every summer.
  4. Hyde Park – Located in Central London is this Grade I-registered park, which is the biggest park of four that make up Kensington Palace’s verdant entrance.
  5. StonehengeStanding tall at 13 feet and stretching 7 feet in width are the stones that form this wonder of the world. Visit to walk on the land where Neolithic ancestors once walked.
  6. Hadrian’s WallAlso known as the Roman Wall, this ancient structure was built as a defensive fortification when emperor Hadrian was the Roman emperor (117-138).
  7. Peak District Located in central England is this wildlife-rich national park. It is most well-known for its stepping stones in White Peak. If you enjoy hiking, venture up to the highest point at Kinder Scout.
  8. Roman Baths – The remaining fragments of the Temple of Aquae Sulis are housed inside this well-preserved Roman site. A hot spring feeds the Roman baths.
  9. North York MoorsMolded by nature, this flourishing national park is a place for hiking and sightseeing at ruined Whitby Abbey.
  10. Eden Project – An educational center and eco park, the spectacular domes at this park contain thousands of plants from all corners of the globe.

Wales

Slate caverns, underground caves wales
An underground attraction in Snowdonia, this historic deep mine is open for public tours. When you leave, you’ll have increased your understanding of the area’s sate quarrying history.

Hiker’s and nature lovers are overwhelmed by the beauty of Wales, which sits in Great Britain’s southwestern segment. When you venture to this coastal country, visit the following top destinations :

  1. SnowdoniaReach Mount Snowdon’s summit on a train journey along the Snowdon Mountain Railway when you visit this sublime regional park.
  2. Cardiff Castle – A medieval castle in the capital of Wales, this 11th-century structure was constructed by Norman invaders.
  3. Hafod Estate A landscaped estate enclosed by trees, Hafod Uchtryd was formerly used as a hunting lodge. The drive to the estate is considered one of the 10 most scenic drives in the world, according to the Automobile Association.
  4. Devils Bridge – Watch as the water crashes down to a wooded gorge at this tourist attraction in Pontarfynach. Legend has it the Devil was the creator of this bridge!
  5. Brecon Beacons National ParkCome rain or shine, this national park is perfect for wandering amidst fresh water springs, waterfalls and various tree species. Consider it Wales’ version of Pandora – remember, that extraordinary tree-filled planet on the movie Avatar? It might not be as colorful as Pandora, but it’s certainly as enchanting.
  6. Caernarfon Castle – A medieval fortress that is maintained by the Welsh Government, this huge structure dominates the scene from across the River Seiont.
  7. Portmeirion – Based in a Gwynedd, North Wales is this village. It seems a little out of place in Wales, since it was designed to replicate the architectural style of a traditional Italian village!
  8. Pembrokeshire Coast – Spend a day breathing in the fresh British air as you explore this coastal region, which claimed its title as a National Park in 1952.
  9. Anglesey – An adventure to this sandy island in Wales will require a journey along the Menai Suspension Bridge and the Britannia Bridge.
  10. Llechwedd Slate Caverns – An underground attraction in Snowdonia, this historic deep mine is open for public tours. When you leave, you’ll have increased your understanding of the area’s sate quarrying history.

Scotland

Enjoy the solemn and preserved beauty of Loch Ness. Can you spot the monster?

The northernmost part of the U.K. is home to Scotland. Arguably one of the most beautiful countries on the planet, it features iconic castles, lush green valleys, large lakes and the following attractions:

  1. Loch NessThe freshwater abyss that is, according to legend, home to the Loch Ness Monster, this freshwater loch covers an area of 56.4 km².
  2. Edinburgh CastleThis iconic tourist attraction in Scotland stands on top of an extinct volcano!
  3. Ben Nevis A pony track and hiking paradise, Ben Nevis is the tallest mountain in the British Isles at a height of 4,411 feet above sea level.
  4. Urquhart CastleWith ruins dating back to the 14th and 16th centuries, history lovers will not want to miss a visit to this former ancient battle ground.
  5. Arthur’s Seat – You may not be able to drive to the summit of this high-rising mountain peak, but you can hike to the top, which is 251 meters!
  6. Museum of ScotlandInterested in art, design, science, technology, fashion or nature? Inside this museum, you can explore collections that cover absolutely everything!
  7. Mary King’s CloseStep back in time as you walk through the underground streets and spaces that make up this ancient close in Edinburgh’s Old Town.
  8. Glenfinnan ViaductSteam trains leave a white trail of smoke that creates a stark contrast against the greenery enclosing this West Highland Line railway viaduct.
  9. Scottish National GalleryA neoclassical structure that first opened in 1859, this national art gallery was designed by William Henry Playfair.
  10. National War MuseumThis Edinburgh-based museum tells the story of Scotland’s former battles with its display of military artifacts.

Northern Ireland

Castlewellan Forest Park

A country filled with Christian and Celtic monuments that give visitors a glimpse into its past, Northern Ireland’s landscape merges glacial valleys with ancient landmarks. The following destinations should be included on your travel itinerary: 

  1. Giant’s CausewayAn ancient volcanic eruption led to the creation of this distinctively shaped attraction, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  2. Botanic Gardens Open to the public, this 28-acre park is a vibrant landscape of herb-fringed gardens, trees and a bright red rose garden.
  3. Ulster MuseumLearn about Egyptian mummies, dinosaurs, art, natural sciences and a whole lot more inside this museum, which displays artifacts over an area of 8,000 square metres.
  4. Tollymore Forest Park Established in 1955 as Northern Ireland’s first state forest park, Tollymore Forest Park contains wildlife such as red squirrels, wild deer and woodpeckers amidst a green scene of birch, Oak, beech and giant redwood trees.
  5. Titanic Belfast – The iceberg-struck ship’s story is told inside this maritime heritage attraction, from the very beginning of her construction to her sinking in 1912.
  6. Enniskillen Castle – More than 600 years ago, this 16th-century castle was built alongside the River Erne in County Fermanagh. Visit to browse military memorabilia and to walk around the ancient courtyard.
  7. Old Bushmills Distillery Ireland’s oldest operating distillery has been producing Bushmills whiskey for over 400 years.
  8. Castlewellan Forest Park – Walk around this national park with water on one side and a variation of tree species on the other! The various types of trees come from Asia, Australasia, and North and South America.
  9. Slieve DonardCovering six acres of private land, this resort and spa is based close to the ocean at the foot of the Mountains of Mourne.
  10. Anne’s CathedralYou may have heard of this attraction being called Belfast Cathedral. It exhibits Hiberno-Romanesque style architecture and is a Church of Ireland cathedral.

So no matter where you end up going, you are sure to fall in love with the U.K. So look up some packing tips and set up your travel plans because you’re going to eventually knock each and every one of these amazing destinations off of your list.

The 100 most Jewish foods!

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Tablet Magazine

The folks at Tablet Magazine have created an interactive list of Jewish foods that is as addictive as salty pickles, chewy macaroons, or (insert your own guilty nosh). It’s not a roster of the most popular Jewish foods, or the healthiest, or the tastiest. Some are pretty obscure (making their last appearance on Bubbe’s bubbe’s table). Instead they aimed to identify foods with the deepest Jewish significance. Pull up a chair to this table and see how they fared!

According to Tablet, these foods were generated by a people that became many peoples, “a tribe at once bound together by a shared tradition and separated by radically different host countries, cultures, politics, and influences.”

Jewish food, soup, matza
Matza ball soup. A tasty Jewish soup eaten at Passover.

Instead of organizing the dishes chronologically or by originating region, the dishes are presented as they exist in reality: all on the same table. And the photo of that spread wasn’t Photoshopped, instead all 100 dishes were assembled and photographed in one day.

So spin the table (link here), click on each plate, and enjoy the blurbs that accompany each dish. You can also view the dishes in a simple alphabetical list or by contributor. In addition to Tablet writers and editors, contributors include leading chefs and food writers—Ruth Reichl, Eric Ripert, Joan Nathan, Michael Solomonov, Dan Barber, Gail Simmons, Yotam Ottolenghi, Tom Colicchio, Amanda Hesser and Merrill Stubbs, to name just a few.

Tablet is a daily online magazine of Jewish news, ideas, and culture, a project of the not-for-profit Nextbook Inc.

If you follow our contributor Miriam Kresh (here), she writes up a healthy dose of recipes for Green Prophets on how to prepare all sorts of Jewish foods, and Muslim food and Christian food… everyone’s food, inspired by the Middle East.

With that, there’s only one thing left to say: Enjoy! (Add let us know your favorite!)

Russian factory under fire for ‘Poor Jew’ ice cream

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anti-Semitism
Poor Jew ice cream. Got hand it to the Russians for their great sense of awareness.

A Russian ice cream company is drawing criticism from members of the international Jewish community for a new dessert named “Poor Jew”. An advert on Russian social media states, “Introducing the ice cream ‘Poor Jew,'” Try all this deliciousness, it turns out that he is not so poor.” The cone may not be poor, but it’s surely tasteless.

In a social media post announcing the ice cream’s launch on Feb. 28, the company describes it as a “crusty horn” filled with chocolate- and prune-flavored ice cream and topped with peanuts. Prune-flavored ice cream my be a matter of subjective preference, but most will agree that the real problem is with the product name and packaging.

The brand Slavitsa wraps their pre-packaged ice cream cone in an Israeli flag, also featuring the Star of David, symbols of Judaism and modern Jewish identity. The cone made Russian national news after the head of a Jewish community in the western town of Naberezhnye Chelny – 600 miles east of Moscow – blew the whistle. Leonid Shteinberg has called the name “racist” and demanded its production and sale be halted, Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty reported.

Related: Read about really good “Jewish” ice cream from Tel Aviv that uses hummous as a base.

“Who allowed them to offend national feelings?” Shteinberg told the news website Tatar-inform.ru. He also threatened to sue the factory if they don’t stop production of the ice cream. Slavitsa’s director responded by saying, “Look at the sales! People love it! At the end of the day, it’s clear that this Jew is not poor at all,” making reference to the ice cream’s commercial success.

The city prosecutor’s office has opened an investigation into whether the ice cream maker used the name “Poor Jew” and the Israeli flag legally on its packaging.

The Slavitsa company has long demonstrated questionable taste. They were previously criticized for creating a chocolate ice cream named after then-President Barack Obama, which had a wrapper depicting an African boy, and for naming another ice cream with an ethnic slur for Ukrainians. 

Natural mallow salve calms mosquito bites

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mallows herbal salve

When the first warm days tempt you outdoors for a walk, take time to look at the wild mallows flowers. So soon to vanish in summer’s heat, they cast their light purple beauty wherever they’re permitted to exist.

Common mallow flower, calms mosquito bites
The common mallow or malva can even be used as an egg white substitute for vegans

Urbanization has deprived Nature of places where wild herbs and vegetables used to grow, but even the smallest space between buildings, waste ground and abandoned lots bear wild seeds that wait for winter rains to sprout. Kids in Israel like to eat the seeds raw and compare them to little round breads. Kids in America will see them as little round cheeses.

One of these is mallows, Malva sylvestris. See our post about eating nettles and mallows here.

Considered an invasive weed in some parts, mallows are yet a valuable edible and medicinal herb. And bees love mallows flowers; that’s crucial in a world that becomes less friendly to those important pollinators by the day.

Mallows’ leaves and green fruit release beneficial mucilage (goop) that herbalists have used to soothe dry, irritated skin since antiquity. Author Tracy Chevalier mentions making mallows ointment for chapped hands in her book “Girl With A Pearl Earring.” According to some herbalists mallow “talks cells out of dying.”

Here’s the recipe for a basic ointment or salve using mallows.

Basic instructions for any herbal ointment
Make an infused oil, then use it to make a beeswax ointment

What you need:

1 small, very clean, very dry glass jar with lid
Pot large enough to fit the jar in with some space around it
Clean, dry spoon or knife
Enough chopped herb to fill the jar
Good-quality oil
Another small, clean and dry pot
Beeswax

Pick the mallows at mid-day, when the dew has dried on the leaves and the flowers are open. Don’t wash the leaves, but pick them over and discard any dirty ones. It’s important to use only dry plant material – any trace of moisture will cause the oil infusion to mold.

Chop the leaves.

Fill the jar with chopped leaves and flowers.
Pour oil into the jar. Stir it once or twice. Keep filling the jar until all the herb is covered and the jar is full.

Close the jar tightly and place in a pot containing water to come half-way up the jar.

Place the pot over low heat and let the water simmer for 2 hours, replacing it as it evaporates.

Remove the jar from the water bath, wipe it dry, and set it aside to cool.
Strain the oil through cheesecloth or an old, clean nylon stocking. Diaper material and thin, worn-out kitchen towels are also useful here. Squeeze out as much oil as possible from the leaves. The best of it is in the last drops.

Discard the spent herb.

Measure the oil.

For every ounce (30 ml.)of infused oil, have ready 1 tablespoon (15 ml.) grated beeswax.

Heat the measured oil in a small pot, over very gentle heat.
Add the grated beeswax. Stir until it melts and you have a smooth semi-solid: one or two minutes.

Pour the warm ointment into a clean jar. Cover and let it cool until it becomes solid.

You can melt the ointment again and add more infused oil if it’s too solid, or more beeswax if it’s too soft. Add only teaspoons at a time until you’re satisfied with the texture.

Lacking commercial beeswax, you can measure a tablespoon-sized chunk from a genuine beeswax candle and melt it into the oil. Just draw the wick out of the liquid before pouring it into the jar.

The weird backstory to Daylight Savings Time

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summer timeSet a reminder to set back your clocks this weekend, as we welcome back (for the hundredth time) Daylight Savings Time. This biannual tradition, established in 1918 America, sees much of the world get robbed of an hour sleep as clocks spring forward at 1 AM on Sunday, all to give us an extra hour of sunlight.

Chinese invade Israel…on bikes!

Chines bike share in Israel

Human-powered, pedal-driven, single-track, two-wheeled bikes are emerging as the most disruptive tech in transportation. Now China’s top two dock-less bike-sharing titans are rolling into Startup Nation with plans to deploy thousands of bikes in Tel Aviv in the first half of 2018, threatening existing stationed bike platforms like local provider Tel-O-Fun. 

Saudi Arabia’s plan to mine shale oil

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Flaring of excess gas in drilling for oil is also a byproduct that’s vented into the atmosphere releasing all sorts of volatile organic chemicals, causing air pollution and releasing climate changing methane gas.

Saudi Arabia’s Aramco is eyeing a twofold increase in its natural gas production over the next ten years, and the plan includes the environmentally devastating process of producing oil from shale deposits.

One of the top spots for shale gas drilling is the Jafurah basin, which is similar in size to Texas’ Eagle Ford.

Reacting to Saudi Arabia’s plan to produce unconventional gas by the end of March for local consumption in order to export more oil for a bigger profit, Julien Jreissati Arab World Campaigner at Greenpeace Mediterranean said, “If the kingdom’s intention is to accentuate climate change and its devastating impacts than there is no better way to do so!”

“With this announcement Saudi Arabia demonstrates that it does not take the Paris agreement seriously,” said Jreissati. He continued, “Studies show that more than half of the known ​fossil fuels ​reserves​, especially shale oil & gas​, need to stay in the ground for the world to have a chance to limit the global average temperature increase to 2c let alone 1.5c”.

“The kingdom should rather focus on decarbonising its energy and economy by accelerating its transition to renewable energy considering that Saudi Arabia is one of the most vulnerable countries to climate change” concluded Jreissati.

The pros and cons of owning a Harley Davidson in the UK

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shiny harley bike, dead sea
Harley Davidson fanatics organize a trip around the Dead Sea.

Electric bikes have taken over the world. And there is a lot to be said about the environmental advantages to driving a 2 wheel vehicle, over a 4. Ownership of a Harley Davidson is a major goal for many motorcycle fanatics. These motorcycles are well-known all over the world and have become an icon of the biker life. Depending on where you live, using a bike for transportation can be either simple or complex. Weather patterns, traffic, and cost all play a part in how a motorcycle works into your daily life. Your geographical location can also be important when making the decision about purchasing a Harley Davidson. They are a group of specialty bikes that fit in to some lifestyles better than others. Owners of these bikes, however, stand strong in their support of the brand. Residents of the United Kingdom may have some very specific reasons for deciding for or against a Harley Davidson. Let’s take a look at some pros and cons for owning a Harley Davidson in the UK.

Pros

Cost Efficient

Gas prices have increased significantly in the UK. The cost of keeping a car full of gas is often an unmanageable expense. A Harley Davidson gets better gas mileage than a car and parking charges are often non-existent. In large cities, like London, parking for public places can be pricey. Many people opt for public transit to avoid the hassle. A motorcycle is an excellent way to save on parking while still enjoying personal transportation.

Insurance and maintenance are also an added expense when owning a car. These costs are still present when a motorcycle is involved, but they are much less. Insurance on a motorcycle can cut your monthly premium in half. A motorcycle does not require the same amount of maintenance. A car engine is larger, and more complex, making maintenance more extensive. The overall cost of a car payment is also more invasive to a monthly budget. A Harley Davidson purchase can easily be less financially destructive.

What’s more, you can buy from the range of Jennings used Harley Davidson bikes, which makes it far more cost efficient than purchasing one brand new.

Social Opportunities

Many social groups form over shared interests. Hobbies are a great catalyst for clubs and lasting friendships. Harley Davidson enthusiasts often form social groups that meet up for meals, outdoor activities, and group bike rides. Many also form an alliance with a specific charity. There may be coordinated volunteer events or money raising efforts. Charity events can be a great bonding experience with other Harley Davidson owners. By joining a specific club, you are guaranteed to have endless support and advice when it comes to maintenance, repairs, and upgrades for your bike. Online Harley Davidson forums also offer advice and social chat groups.

hipster harley ride forest gang

City Life

Other than the traffic, life in the big city can be inconvenient for those with cars. Parking is often limited and expensive in the city. A motorcycle takes up much less space. City dwellers often have everything they need nearby, sometimes within walking distance. A car may sit in a parking space and be used rarely. There is no need to incur the cost of a car payment, gas, and parking for minimal use. A motorcycle can be used more efficiently and cost effectively.

Comfort

Harley Davidson’s have some of the most comfortable designs available for motorcycles. These bikes are made for cruising, not speed. They are, therefore built for comfort. There is no concern over extreme aerodynamics or racy décor. The seats are guaranteed to be large enough to fit a wide range of body shapes and weights. Unlike the slim seats on racing bikes, Harley Davidson seats are made to be seated on for long periods of time, If desired. Many motorcycle owners have a friend or significant other that enjoys riding with them. Harley Davidson bikes also offer a comfortable space for passengers.

Enjoyment of the Outdoors

A motorcycle is a nice way to enjoy a ride on a country road. If you live in one of the less condensed areas of the UK, a Harley Davidson can be a fun recreational tool. Country roads have less traffic, allowing for enjoyment of a steady ride with a nice breeze and warm sunshine. Riding on a motorcycle can be a way to lead a simpler lifestyle. Nature is more accessible when you are not closed up inside of a car. It can also be easier to park a Harley Davidson in local parks and other outdoor recreational areas. The UK is home to stunning scenery, such as the Welsh countryside, which is perfect to be witnessed on a motorcycle. Hop on your bike for a day of nature exploration.

 Cons

 Weather

hipster cruising harley

The weather in the UK is often unaccommodating for outdoor activity. The well-known fog and overcast skies can contribute to low visibility. While these weather complications are not unique to motorcyclists, they do make transportation difficult. Rainstorms are the most prevalent weather pattern that affects those riding on their Harley Davidson. Rainy weather is abundant many areas of the UK. While protective gear can help, it is near impossible to stay completely dry when rain pours down on an exposed biker. Winters can also be unforgiving in parts of the UK. Those that do not tolerate cold temperatures well, may have a hard time riding a motorcycle when temperatures drop. The wind often seems colder when you moving on a bike. If you plan to use your Harley Davidson for daily commutes, it is best to invest in quality rain and cold weather gear.

Traffic

Traffic is a common occurrence in large cities. High traffic times, such as morning and evening rush hour, may leave you seated on your Harley Davidson longer than desired. People prefer the more relaxed nature of car seats during traffic jams. Your entertainment options are also limited when riding a motorcycle. In a car you can listen to the radio or an audio book fairly easily. Sound systems are present on many Harley Davidsons; however, they can present dangers to the driver. Motorcyclists must be very aware of their surroundings and may not be as responsive while listening to music. Traffic can also put a strain on a motorcyclist’s legs, as they have to stop repeatedly and sit at lights for long periods of time.

Foreign Parts

Harley Davidson is not a UK brand. The company that manufactures these bikes originates in the United States. When repairs are needed, parts may not be readily available. It is important to find a reliable dealer or mechanic that routinely stocks parts once you purchase a Harley Davidson in the UK. Planning ahead can help to avoid having your bike out of commission for a long period of time. Many parts can be ordered online, however, shipping times and charges may be elevated. Some parts of the UK may also not have a qualified shop to sell Harley Davidsons. A bit of travel, therefore, may be necessary to make your purchase.

Safety

Motorcycles of any kind come with safety issues. A Harley Davidson is, however, safer than a racing bike. Most operators do not excel to unnecessary speeds, and use their motorcycles for slower, enjoyable rides. Other motorists, however, cannot be controlled. Even safe motorcycle drivers can fall prey to a distracted car driver. Drivers of cars often are not conditioned to look out for motorcyclists. Bikes are smaller and not as easy to see. Wrecks that involve motorcycles carry a much higher risk of severe bodily harm, as there is nothing to protect drivers from the elements. Accidents can be avoided by following proper traffic rules and refraining from weaving between lanes. Moderate speeds and proper clothing can also help protect drivers of a Harley Davidson.

Limitations

There may be some instances where a motorcycle owner is unable to accomplish things they wish due to not owning a car. There is limited space on a Harley Davidson. Only one passenger is able to accompany the driver on a ride. Motorcycle owners are unable to be the host of large car trips. They may also have to take public transportation or secure a ride with friends during inclement weather.

Dressy occasions can be difficult to attend if you are arriving on a Harley Davidson. Alternate clothing may have to be worn on the journey to the location, with a change of clothes packed for the event. Formal wear could become dirty or wrinkled while operating a motorcycle. Storage space is limited, however, should hold a change of clothes or travel bag. Transporting pets, large amounts of groceries, and large items may not be possible. Think about your lifestyle before making a Harley Davidson your main method of commuting.

The decision to purchase a Harley Davidson is often dependent on a person’s lifestyle preferences. It can be surprising, however, how easily a Harley Davidson can fit into your life. They can be money saving for those who wish to avoid the costs of a car, and versatile for congested areas. Many people simply purchase them to use for fun, while they use their car for daily transportation. Preparations is key to manage a motorcycle during bad weather, as proper equipment or alternate transportation is necessary. The comfort level of a Harley Davidson also exceeds that of many bikes, making them a great choice for longer rides and hauling passengers. The choice to include a Harley Davidson in your collection is a personal one with several attributes to consider.

We need courage, not hope, to face climate change.

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end of the world

I’m sitting in Vail, Colorado, with a view fairly identical to the stock image above (my iPhone camera broken thanks to an especially poor run). Cracked phone aside, it was an epic week of skiing within a spectacular natural backdrop. I return to reality tomorrow, and was enjoying a few moments while the clothes wash to catch up on my Twitter newsfeed, when I was pulled into an essay that at once evaporated my Rocky Mountain high. Read this now.

Israel’s 10 surprising eco contributions to the world

fun facts about israelOK, so we know quite a bit about Israel; start-up capital of the universe; uber-friendly to vegans; and offering a portfolio of natural and historical wonders that could take a lifetime to fully explore. Here are a few more interesting facts about the Holy Land that you can impress your friends with:

1. An Israeli conservationist Ofir Drori has managed to jail more than 1,300 major wildlife traffickers in Africa through his wildlife conservation organization, the Last Great Ape Organization (link here)

2. Israeli scientists have produced a clean energy alternative from spinach.

3. An Israeli company has developed reusable plastic trays to collect dew from the air, reducing the water needed by crops or trees by up to 50 percent (link here).

4. In the heart of urban Jerusalem lies a nature park with a herd of gazelles.

Gazelle Israel eco park
Gazelle park in the middle of the city

5. An Israeli inventor has developed the world’s first cardboard bicycle from recycled materials. The bike is resistant to rain and sun, and costs around $9 each (link here).

cardboard bike, recycled materials, green transportation, cycling, social design, green design, Israeli design, crowd funding, Indiegogo cardboard bike campaign

6. Israel is the only country in the world that entered the 21st century with a net gain in its number of trees (link here).

7. With peanuts introduced early to their diets (mostly in the form of the popular snack, Bamba), Israeli babies are 10 times less likely to suffer from a peanut allergy than Jewish children in the UK (link here).

Bamba, peanut butter snack from Israel. Like cheesies, but sweet.

8. In 2017, Tel Aviv hosted the largest gay pride parade in the Middle East (link here).

Vogue anywhere in Tel Aviv

9. In 2004, Israeli scientists found a cure for bad breath.

10. The powerhouse nation of Israel is only 1/6 of 1% of the landmass of the Middle East (link here).

Know more? Drop them in the comments section!