(Family Features) Natural and plant-based remedies have been around for centuries, and for everyday treatments like minor cuts, scrapes and rashes, they can have real benefits. In fact, the global herbal medicine market is expected to reach $342 billion by 2030, according to a forecast by Research and Markets.

In North America, a green movement is spurring a large share of this growth, with consumers more inclined toward natural and plant-based medicines. Concerns about side effects, long-term impact and safety also affect the choices people are making when it comes to treating their medical concerns.

“Natural and plant-based remedies have been around for centuries, treating everything from common cold symptoms to dressing wounds and caring for injuries,” said Dr. Billy Goldberg, a New York Times’ bestselling author and emergency room physician. “As people increasingly turn to more natural tried-and-true ingredients, some companies are taking note and beginning to incorporate them into products that provide the healing power of nature.”

Goldberg and the first-aid experts at CURAD, which have made adhesive bandages since 1951, offer these suggestions for natural common ingredients that can help protect your health:

Vitamin E – Studies by the National Institute on Health have shown that vitamin E helps soothe and support skin during the healing process. Vitamin E may also help promote immunity and prevent arterial blood clots.

Aloe Vera – Few things soothe sunburn like aloe vera. With analgesic, anti-inflammatory and soothing properties, aloe vera gel helps reduce pain and inflammation. Also helpful in the healing process of cuts and scrapes, the CURAD Naturals line of adhesive bandages are infused with aloe vera in the wound pad and surface of the bandage, which is enriched with the antioxidant vitamin E to help soothe and moisturize skin.

Garlic – Used for centuries for wound healing, garlic extract has been found to improve healing time and decrease rate of infection. Ingesting garlic may also head off symptoms of the common cold and help reduce blood pressure.

Baking Soda – Bicarbonate of soda, commonly known as baking soda, can be used for more than baking. From removing stains to cleaning teeth and more, it can also be used to help treat a variety of wounds. In addition to being an odor absorber, it can be applied to insect stings and bites, such as those from bees or mosquitoes.

Whether making a paste using baking soda and water then applying to the bite or using an option like CURAD Naturals adhesive bandages featuring baking soda, the chemical compound can help soothe skin. In addition to absorbing wound odor, the bandages provide skin-friendly comfort and stretch with a four-sided seal to keep dirt and germs out.

Honey – Sweet and highly acidic, honey’s antioxidant, antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties make it a good choice for dressing wounds since it encourages healing and prevents infections. Honey may also help soothe coughs.

Charcoal – Activated charcoal may have an antibacterial effect by absorbing harmful microbes from wounds. Similarly, it can be used to treat poisoning or drug overdose and may help with digestive problems. It’s also thought to play a role in lowering cholesterol and improving kidney function, and some dental care products use it as a whitening agent.

Learn more about natural health care and first-aid products at CURAD.com.

Photos courtesy of Getty Images

SOURCE:
CURAD

(Family Features) Being environmentally conscious doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. In fact, by making simple changes to your daily routine, you can make a positive impact on the planet while also saving money and living a more sustainable lifestyle.

Consider these practical ways to reduce your carbon footprint and protect the planet for future generations right from the comforts of your own home.

Reduce, Reuse, Recycle: This classic mantra is still relevant today. By reducing the amount of waste you produce, reusing items whenever possible and recycling materials like paper, plastic and glass, you can help minimize the amount of trash that ends up in landfills and oceans. Composting food scraps and avoiding single-use plastic items like water bottles and shopping bags can also help reduce your impact on the environment.

Conserve Energy: One of the biggest contributors to climate change is the burning of fossil fuels for energy. Simple steps like turning off lights when you leave a room, unplugging electronics when they’re not in use, adjusting your thermostat to save on heating and cooling costs and using energy-efficient lightbulbs and appliances can help reduce your carbon footprint and save you money in the long run.

Save Water: Water is a precious resource, and it’s important to use it wisely. Simple actions like fixing leaky faucets, taking shorter showers, using the dishwasher or washing machine only when full and watering your garden in the early morning or late evening can help conserve water and protect the water supply. You can also install low-flow showerheads and toilets to further reduce water usage.

Choose Sustainable Products: When shopping for household items, look for products made from sustainable materials that are biodegradable or recyclable. Choosing products with minimal packaging or opting for eco-friendly alternatives can help reduce waste.

Grow Your Own Food: If you have the space, consider starting a small garden at home. Growing your own fruits, vegetables and herbs allows you to enjoy fresh, organic produce while also reducing the carbon footprint of your food by cutting out the transportation and packaging involved in store-bought produce.

Find more tips for going green at home at eLivingtoday.com.

Photo courtesy of Unsplash

SOURCE:
eLivingtoday.com

FRAMINGHAM, Mass., June 12, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Americans are set to spend an impressive $22.4 billion on Father’s Day this year, reflecting the importance of celebrating dads nationwide*. Dads who celebrate actually want to get active outdoors and prefer receiving gear that supports their hobbies and active lifestyles.** National activewear and outdoor gear retailer Sierra, in collaboration with YouGov, has uncovered that dads favor practical gifts that enable them to pursue their favorite outdoor activities. These insights reveal a shift towards experiences, guiding families to choose gifts that truly resonate with what dads want this Father’s Day.

Part of the TJ Maxx Family of Brands, Sierra is known for offering a vast selection of top brands in activewear and gear at great value, and is here to help shoppers spoil dad, grandpa, and any father figures in your life this Father’s Day without breaking the bank.

Key findings amongst dads who celebrate Father’s Day include:

• The Lure of the Outdoors: 75% of respondents shared that their ideal Father’s Day is spent outdoors, with activities ranging from hiking, camping, barbecuing, to fishing and more.
• Not in the Mood for a Fancy Restaurant? Fire up the Grill Instead: Contrary to the traditional image of a Father’s Day expensive dinner outing, 40% of dads who celebrate prefer to spend the day getting active in the great outdoors instead.
• Avoid Impersonal Gifts: Instead of a generic gift basket or a one-size-fits-all gift card to a store he doesn’t shop at, get something you know he needs! 33% of respondents revealed they prefer practical gifts they’ll actually use, including gear for their hobbies and other everyday items.
• Active Apparel & Gear Top the Gift List: When it comes to gifts, dads are most interested in apparel and gear to get active, with 42% of respondents sharing their preferred gifts are activewear and gear for their hobbies, compared to only 22% wanting workout equipment and sporting goods.
• Try Something New: 56% of respondents revealed they’re interested in taking up a new outdoor hobby, including fishing, pickleball, running, hiking, biking, and kayaking.

“This Father’s Day, Sierra has the top gifts to celebrate all dads and father figures out there, with incredible deals on gear for dads who love getting active and outside” said Caitlin Kobelski, Vice President and Sierra Marketing Director. “Whether it’s teaching us a new skill, cheering us on from the sidelines, or simply offering a listening ear, they play a vital role in our lives. At Sierra, we understand the importance of honoring dads with the gifts they want most. Find the perfect gift to fuel his passions and create lasting memories together, from top-quality brands at unbeatable prices to give dads what they truly want.”

Sierra’s Father’s Day Gift Guide:

To help shoppers find the perfect gift for Dad this year at amazing savings, Sierra has curated a Father’s Day Gift Guide featuring a selection of activewear and outdoor gear to support dads in pursuing their favorite activities and outdoor hobbies, or you can search the entire Father’s Day shop here. With prices up to 60% less*** than department and specialty stores prices, shop top gifts at Sierra to get more bang for your buck!

• Help dad discover his love for pickleball with a new pickleball set for just $19.99, 28% less*** than department or specialty retailers, encouraging him to try out new hobbies and creating a new way to spend quality time as a family.
• Check out Sierra’s incredible fishing equipment from this casting rod for just $49.99, 58% less*** than department or specialty retailers, fishing net for just $29.99, 45% less*** than department or specialty retailers, and a fly reel pack for just $129.99, 40% less*** than department or specialty retailers, to make dad’s fishing dream a reality.
• Gear dad up for summer hikes with a pair of sturdy hiking boots for just $59.99, 50% less*** than department or specialty retailers, a hydration pack for only $16.99, 51% less*** than department or specialty retailers, and trekking poles for only $16.99, 32% less*** than department or specialty retailers.
• For the gym-shy dad who wants to start working out, get him started with a workout kit for just $19.99, 33% less*** than department or specialty retailers, comfortable joggers for just $19.99, 50% less*** than department or specialty retailers, and supportive sneakers for just just $59.99, 42% less*** than department or specialty retailers.

Note to Editors

*Based on a report that indicates consumers are estimated to spend roughly $22.4 billion for Father’s Day gifts in 2024 – https://nrf.com/media-center/press-releases/fathers-day-spending-total-224-billion 

**All figures, unless otherwise stated, are from YouGov Plc.  Total sample size was 2381 adults, among whom 533 were dads who celebrate Father’s Day. Fieldwork was undertaken between 28th – 30th May 2024.  The survey was carried out online. The figures have been weighted and are representative of all US adults (aged 18+).

***Prices are representative. Actual prices as marked. Styles vary by store and online. Compare At prices are based on comparison to regular prices of comparable items at full-price department or specialty retailers.

ABOUT SIERRA

Founded in 1986, Sierra helps customers get active with quality brands, vast selection, and affordable prices. Sierra is part of The TJX Companies, Inc., the leading off-price retailer of apparel and home fashions in the U.S. and worldwide. Shop any of our 100 Sierra stores or visit Sierra.com to find apparel, footwear, and gear for your whole family at incredible prices. Give @SierraOfficial a follow on Instagram and Facebook, then tag us to share your travels, new hobbies, and great finds.

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SOURCE Sierra