Saturday, January 21, 2012

A Review of Variable Speed fan controller

I bought this in order to be able to control the speed of the Fantech Whole House Hepa Filter. You plug it into the wall and then the fan you want to control, into the unit. You turn the dial up and down to get the speed you want - very simple.

It has a nice plug so no need to wire anything yourself. User friendly. Cheap and does the job it's supposed to do. I got mine very inexpensively from Amazon.

A Review of Fantech Whole House Hepa Filter


 As an allergy sufferer I was looking for a way to bring in fresh air into my house without bringing in pollen and other pollutants from outside. There are many air filters on the market that would do a good job and I had looked at other units costing up to $1000 but the Fantech Whole House Hepa Filter unit seemed to be as good as those but the cost was much more attractive.
My intent was to create positive pressure when it was running so the clean air from the unit would push put through any cracks and windows in my home and keep dirty air from outside creeping in. 

About the product:

It is a high quality air filter and is designed to go in your heating or cooling system in a crawl space or loft but in my case I placed the unit inside my home and connected it to an air vent leading outside.
It has three filters- a pre filter which is designed to be changed often,  a  carbon filter that removes odours and VOC's such as auto fumes etc. The third filter is the HEPA filter which needs changing once a year and removes larger particles out of the air. This is the main reason I purchased the unit. Instead of opening a window for fresh air I just the switch on my machine. As an allergy sufferer I can't really have pollen in the house so this unit has been a god send in maintaining a fresh home without the dangers of contaminants.

I did buy a variable speed controller to use with it so that I could adjust the speed of the fan. Read my review of the variable speed controller here.

How I tested the product:


I have been running it for the last eight months now so I feel like I have tested it adequately to post a review. I have it set up in my living room, rigged up to a vent. I have it on those days when it isn't too hot or cold outside, since the outside temperature does affect the temperature of the air coming in.

Pros :

Cheaper than other comparable units- half the price in fact.
Affordable filters- easy to change.
Customer service was very helpful in locating a distributor for me to purchase a unit.
Unit came with two collars and flexible duct tubing which made installation easy.

Cons :

It is a little noisy in the home, but that isn't the fault of the unit since most people would have it in a loft or crawl space where the noise wouldn't be a bother.

Conclusion:

A good deal and has helped keep the dust down in the house as well as allergens. I get fresh air without all the pollen. Really is a good deal compared with other models on the market. I paid less than $500.

Rating :

5 stars out of 5

Where to buy:

I recommend contacting Fantech direct and they can put you in contact with a distributor. Click here for company website.

Sunday, December 4, 2011

A Review of Metatron's Magnetic Mat

I have been aware of the power of magnets for aiding physical health for a long time and have even used magnetic insoles in my shoes for quite a while. I was very excited to learn about the healing properties of a magnetic mat designed by His Holiness Buddha Maitreya and handcrafted by nuns and monks. What excited me so much about this product was that it was designed to not only help heal the physical body , but to address issues in the emotional and mental bodies too.  There were a number of testimonials about the different kinds of healings people had experienced and some were pretty outstanding in terms of the seriousness of the diseases people were suffering from.

About the product

Within the mat is a grid that is comprised of copper strips and neo-dynium magnets that make up a series of diamonds. This sacred geometric pattern is known as the Visica Pisces and represents the birth of Spirit in Matter known as the Soul and is a Divine Proportion found within all Life.  The grid is then encased within  two cotton layers of soft cotton batting. The mat also has a removable washable organic cotton cover as well as an organic cotton carrying bag.  You will see from the picture that there are four copper tabs at each corner with a small crystal wrapped in copper and magnets.  Leads are provided to connect the Mat with two Vajras or Etheric Weavers™      (see my review of the etheric weaver here) that can be held in the hand during a meditation or healing treatment for increased benefit. An Essence plate is provided to attach to the base of the Mat so that the subtle energy vibrations of flower essences (see my review of flower remedies here) or other natural remedies can be applied through the Mat.

The mat has many uses and benefits - including for healing, self-healing, pain relief, reducing stress, relaxation, deep meditation and improved sleep. The mat is easily transportable and folds into an organic cotton carrying bag - making it easy to use for traveling or using with massage and many other types of complimentary therapies.


How I tested the product:

I have been lucky enough to use the Metatron's magnetic mat for many years now. I use it to meditate on as well as sleep on. I have had varying degrees of insomnia on and off for years and the mat does a remarkable job of calming the mind and body. In fact I love the mat so much I just bought a new one after 16 years!


Pros
  • The mat works on so much more than physical aches and pains. It helps to restore optimum health in the mind and emotions too. I literally can feel myself relax when I lie on the mat and that in turn opens my mind towards a more intuitive way of being. This can help with problem solving and opening up new avenues for the mind to explore.
  • There are many testimonials on the website of Shambhala Healing Tools that point to the efficacy of this product.
  • Wonderful customer care and support is offered by the nuns and monks who will personally take your calls or emails and answer any questions.
  • Seven CDs of Buddha Maitreya's meditation and healing soul therapy music come free with each mat. 

Cons:

None!


Conclusion:

This is true investment in one's health and well being. A quality hand crafted product made in America that will last for years and years. The level of healing that people have experienced is truly amazing and what's more you can share the tools with friends and family to help them feel better too.


Where to buy:
Online here

A Review of Rosacea-Ltd IV

Introduction

I get flare ups of acne rosacea that can be quite painful. Of course having a red and inflamed face is not the best either! I have had it on and off for years and not really known how to treat my skin as it is quite sensitive, and many treatments on the market can be quite aggressive for my particular skin. I also prefer to use holistic and natural remedies whenever possible and since the skin absorbs everything we put on it , I want to be really careful what I use.

I like researching and I am quite passionate about healthy living so I set myself the challenge of finding a natural protocol for my skin problems. I came across Rosacea-Ltd IV as one possible treatment made by Bass & Boney Pharmaceuticals, Inc. . The name had popped up a few times on acne forums and had received favorable comments from users.

I was quite impressed with the scientific information presented on the company's website, and could see time and research had been put into the product and the educating of people about their product. I realized from studying the manufacturer's website, that the products I had been using to try and cure my skin had probably been making it worse. I also learned from their information that if left untreated acne rosacea gets worse over time and can lead to some serious problems. In addition it can be a symptom of other isues going on in the body. This was enough to prompt me into ordering the product.

When ordering you fill out a questionnaire regarding your skin problems so that the regimen can be tailored for your specific needs. I liked this aspect because we are all different and a one size fits all approach isn't the best.

About the product:

 Rosacea-Ltd IV is a rosacea treatment by a Johns Hopkins MD. It was designed for sensitive skin and redness with any combination of rosacea, acne pimples, rosacea papules and seborrheic dermatitis.
The shape of Rosacea-Ltd IV is a disk which allows the user to easily get to the sides of the nose as well as sweep it along the eye lid for occular rosacea - which occurs in many sufferers and can include lepharitis, conjunctivitis, iritis and dry eyes.


The ingredients of Rosacea-Ltd IV are zinc oxide, sodium chloride, iron oxide, copper oxide, cornstarch, polyethylene glycol and sulfur. There are two disks , one is tan and one is yellow. Full instructions come with the product- basically you use it once at night on clean skin that is wet and moistened with jojoba oil.  The jojoba helps with the absorption of the product as well as mositurizing the skin. You start with the tan disk and use that for 10 days before moving onto the yellow disk.

How I tested the product:

I use this whenever I get a flare up of acne rosacea. I have been using it on and off for one year.

Pros

  • It does help calm the redness and pustules. It works pretty quickly too. I usually notice some improvement within a few days.
  • Relatively cheap - the disks cost me around $80 or so and are not even close to being used up a year later! The company also offer a refund up to 120 days after initial purchase if you are unsatisfied with it.
  • Easy to use- you just glide it very quickly over the face.
  • A lot of good information and detailed care plan.


Cons
  • Can be drying- make sure you use the jojoba oil to counteract any drying effects. Less is more with this product so use a light hand when applying.
  • Can sting a bit on the eye- just keep the eyes closed for a minute or so after application.
  • The sulfur smell is quite strong for me but it does dissipate after a while.

Conclusion

It works for me and after reading the company's literature and testimonials it seems to work well for many people. It is less aggressive than other creams and potions I have tried and doesn't irritate my skin. I think acne rosacea is a complex skin issue to try and treat but this product is one remedy that has worked well for me.

I give it 4 stars out of five.

Where to buy it:
Online via the company's website.

Wednesday, September 22, 2010

Morrocco Method Scalp Massager


I am passionate about healthy hair products. About six or seven years ago I became more aware of how harmful many hair care products were and this led me on a journey of discovery to find out healthy alternatives.
One problem I had was an oily scalp. When I came across the Morrocco Method I was intrigued to learn that Anthony Morrocco recommended brushing and scalp massage for a healthy scalp. In fact he said a lot of brushing and scalp massage was beneficial in treating the causes of an oily scalp. Although this seemed counter intuitive to me I was prepared to give the scalp massager a shot.


About the product:

The massager is made of natural rubber and is made by Morrocco Method. It is 4 - 1/4 " round and very light to hold. It has a handle type nodule in the center which allows the user to rotate the massager over the scalp.

How I tested the product:

I had the original scalp massager that had an oval wooden base and a rope handle, for a few years. The nubs that rubbed the head were thicker. I have been using this new , improved massager for a week and I much prefer it. I use it three times a day following the instructions that it came with. The instructions are simple and easy to perform. Starting at the nape of the neck since the largest concentration of sebaceous glands can be found there, you massage gently in a circular motion. Gradually move over the whole head until you feel your scalp tingling. This denotes increased blood flow to the scalp. This has healthful benefits for the scalp, follicles and hair.


Pros:
  • Easy to use
  • Cheap $7.50
  • All natural 100% rubber
  • On Morrocco Method website there are detailed instructions and videos how to use the massager.
  • Feels good on the scalp, relaxing but invigorating too.
  • Doesn't pull hairs out, so gentle enough for fragile and damaged hair.
  • Seems to relieve tight muscles in the neck


Cons:
None so far.


Conclusion:

So far so good. I like this product much more than the older style massager. This is gentle yet does seem to make my scalp more invigorated. It's too soon to tell whether my oily scalp has responded but I will update later on the longer term effects and benefits.




I give it 4.5 stars out of 5. Time will tell if it makes a difference to my scalp but it feels good and it's so easy to do. Well worth the cost.


Sunday, September 12, 2010

Review of MyChelle Fabulous Eye Cream


My skin is sensitive and so I have to be careful what I put on it.Usually this means I end up spending a little more on face care products as I have learnt the hard way by trying cheaper products and ending up with a sorry result! Only last month I decided to experiment with a cheaper eye cream and overnight my eyes developed a horrible reaction. They became puffy, the skin was extremely itchy and red welts appeared. It was quite a severe reaction that prompted me to go to the doctor but fortunately it healed within a week or so.
So having learned my lesson I am back to using MyChelle Fabulous Eye Cream and it really is rather fabulous.

About the product:

MyChelle Fabulous Eye Cream is designed for all skin types. It is described as being a rejuvenating eye cream to help reduce the visible signs of aging as well as hydrating and soothing the delicate eye area. The active ingredients include edelweiss plant stem cells and hyaluronic acid.  Hyaluronic acid helps plump out skin and keep it youthful looking whilst edelweiss contains high concentrations of leontopodic acids A and B which have strong antioxidant properties. Edelweiss stem cells are especially beneficial for the eye contour area.

How I tested the product:

I use this product in the morning and just before bedtime. I dot it gently under the eyes and between the eyebrows. Sometimes I use it above the upper lip since the ingredients can also inhibit lines forming.

Pros:

  • Non - irritating.
  • A light pleasant smell which doesn't overpower.
  • Seems to work, my furrows have all but disappeared between my eyes.
  • Scientifically formulated preparations using natural and bioactive ingredients.
  • The product comes with good educational material about the ingredients.
  • Comes in tube, which I prefer as my fingers are not dipping in the jar. More hygienic.
Cons:

  • Expensive. I love MyChelle products and I will continue to use them due to my skin sensitivites but the products are not cheap. The eye cream is around $28 for a 5oz tube.
 Conclusion:

Well prepared product that uses natural non -toxic ingredients in theraputic doses that are the correct amount to affect a positive change.The company has a great website and publishes literature to educate consumers about safe alternatives in skin care.

Where to buy it:

Online, health stores, company website. Shop around online as you can often find the product a little cheaper.

I give it 4.5 stars out of 5 and if you have sensitive skin this just might be a good product for you.

Review of " Hair Loss in Women" by Melanie Vonabuesnig


Hair loss in women is not an unusual occurrence which may be surprising to some. There appears to be an increase among young women experiencing this distressing condition. Many factors can be attributed to hair loss and it can take varying degrees from slight loss to total body hair loss. The condition can come and go in some women whilst in some cases it can be a permanent condition.
It is crucial that one understands what type of hair loss they are suffering from as there are many different causes. For some it may be a hormonal cause for instance some women experience temporary hair loss a few months after having a baby. Others may have endured some stressful incident in their lives which can cause hair loss some months after the fact. If a person is on a drastic diet then their hair may be affected.  The choice of hair care products can also have a detrimental affect upon ones hair as I posted in an earlier blog. Therefore it is important to find out the underlying cause and treat it accordingly.

About the product:
I was fortunate enough to find an excellent book that deals with this subject. "Hair Loss in Women - Getting to the Root of the Problem" written by Melanie Vonzbuesnig. Melanie has experienced drastic hair loss herself but was able to heal and control her condition through research and understanding what was causing her particular problem. The results of her research are presented in this book and I found it easy to read and thorough. She covers common as well as rare hair loss conditions. The book makes good sense as well as providing alternative healthy means to address this condition. Her own angle of healing is the use of aromatherapy, which is a safe, natural use of essential oils to assist the body in healing and balance. Essential oils carry the vibrational healing properties of certain flowers, and plants and studies have shown that many ailments and conditions respond favorably to these essences.

How I tested the product:

I read the ebook in one sitting. I found it engagingly written as the author herself has suffered with hair loss. She also presents real life people under the different sub headings of hair loss, so the book is more heartfelt than a medical text book. I personally do not have drastic hair loss but I am interested in maintaining the health of my scalp and hair as it is fine. I am aware that many women suffer from hair loss  and so I wanted to find out what causes it and what can be done about it.

Pros:
  • Instant download in ebook format.
  • Fairly priced.
  • Comes in a bundle of 3 books at discounted rate.
  • Well presented, well documented and easy to understand.
  • I imagine this knowledge would give hair loss sufferers hope that they do not have to suffer alone and that many hair loss cases are treatable.
  • Promotes simple and natural techniques for health.
  • Nice customer service. Prompt responses to emails.
Cons:
  • None really - the book is a good resource that women can incorporate into their lives. If you don't care for ebooks then you can order a hard copy.
Conclusion:
Practical and compelling information especially in the light that the author honestly recounts her own hair loss journey.

Where to buy it:

Knowledge is power.