M.I.A.

So sorry I have been “missing in action” the past several weeks. It’s not that I haven’t been up to much; I just lacked the inspiration to post. Thank you to those who sent encouraging notes, you made me feel loved!

I had a fabulous time with my BFF Deborah at the Natural Products Expo West two weeks ago at the Anaheim Convention Center. We always have a great time exploring all the new products out there, and of course we had to check out the food section where there are always plenty of samples to try out. Our focus was Natural health and beauty products, and I was surprised that this section of the convention was half of what it was last year. Our great economy strikes again.
We sat in on an interesting lecture on Amazon Botanicals given by Chris Kilham-Medicine Hunter. One botanical that I was really excited about was Cat’s Claw (Uncaria Tomentosa) which is thought to be one of the greatest of Amazon medicines. It’s anti-inflammatory, immune enhancing, tumor-inhibitor and is used for pain, asthma, allergies, ulcers, inflammatory disorders, arthritis, rheumatism, tumors and as a cleanser. Having a sister with both fibromyalgia and rheumatoid arthritis, I can really see the potential for this plant. It comes as a capsule, tea or extracts. Chris Kilham was VERY passionate about sustainable and responsible extraction of botanicals and helping the indigenous people, I was truly inspired!