Magic of Macadamia

I went to university in Lismore, New South Wales, Australia. We lived in Rosebank, not far from Dunoon, Macadamia Capital of Australia. There were plantations all over the countryside and it was here that I first learned about macadamias, which is to say, like alot of things Australian, was contradictory to everything I'd previously known.

The first commercial orchard was planted near where I went to school in the early 1880's by Charles Staff. I always thought that macadamias came from Hawaii as they established commercial production so successfully. However, in 2008, macadamia production in Hawaii slipped to a 26-year low. Macadamia nuts are indigenous to Australia and were discovered by John Macadam.

I have been importing Australian macadamia oil and incorporating it into my massage which in turn compelled me to begin Boomerang Botanicals.  I like to mix it with horse chestnut to promote circulation.
Macadamia oil is regenerative, skin conditioning and anti-aging. This oil is high in palmitoleic acid, nearly identical to the skins' own natural emollients. This is unique ingredient isn't found in any other known plant oil.

Arnica montana ~ Leopards' bane

Arnica montana ~ Leopards' bane

The species Arnica montana is native to Europe and has been used for medicinal purposes since the 1500's. Applied topically as a liniment or salve it soothes muscle aches and reduces inflammation.  The thymol derivatives found in the root acts as an vasodilator and facilitate the transport of blood and fluid accumulations associated with injuries.

If I have a bruise or sprain I always reach for arnica. It seems to 'draw out' the bruising, healing more quickly.  It is an excellent adjunct in massage.

Do not use on broken skin and prolonged use may cause irritation. Try a test patch and see if it's something that's for you.

Hydrotherapy - healing power of water

It's dark rainy day today which makes me think about being warm and snugly. 

Hydrotherapy involves the use of water for soothing pains and treating disease.  It has been recorded in  Greek, Roman, Egyptian, and Japanese societies. It languished during the middle ages but regained popularity in the 18th and 19th centuries. 

It can employ the use of jets, whirlpool, hot tub, or jacuzzi. Europeans discovered Kneipp Treatments, Thalassaotherapy, Balneotherapy to name a few.

A hot bath with Epson salts is an excellent anecdote to everyday stressors. I believe it cures a whole slew of maladies.

Here in Colorado we are blessed with many natural thermal hot springs. My favorite is Strawberry Park Hot Springs near Steamboat Springs; I've posted some photos here. 

There are lots of hot springs throughout Colorado with various mineral content, I tend not to like the sulphur springs for obvious reasons : ) with the exception of the Yampa Vapor Caves which are different again as you are not soaking in the water, it just runs through. Spend the extra 50 cents and get the lavender infused wash cloth, a thoughtful add on.

It's good to take time out on your own away from everyone, indulge yourself, feel better today!