As great as Febreze may be, however, their products still contain chemicals. While they’re not toxic per se, they can still cause coughing, sneezing, and other symptoms. For example, many of their air fresheners contain BHT, which can irritate the skin, eyes, and lungs. Not only that, but they also contain phthalates, which are associated with asthma.

What’s more, is that they don’t actually remove the odor molecules—they only cover them up. Given all that, it’s not surprising to know that more and more people are seeking natural alternatives.

Is that why you’re here? Looking for a guide on how to freshen up the house without using chemicals? If so, you’ve come to the right place. We’ll be going over some natural alternatives below—so be sure to keep reading!

1. Essential Oils

Essential oils are aromatic, volatile liquids that are derived from plants. Not only can they benefit your health, but they can also be used for cleaning. For example, you can use it to clean the floor and other surfaces. That’s not all, it can help deodorize the air as well.

All you need is a spray bottle, some vinegar and water, and your favorite oil. Pour 1/4 cup of white vinegar into the bottle and mix it with 1 and a 1/2 cup of water. From there, add 20-30 drops of the essential oil. Mix the ingredients together by shaking the bottle and you can use it as an air freshener—just spray the areas that need to be ‘cleaned.’

Alternatively, you can use a diffuser. You can also add a few drops to your humidifier (if it’s compatible with essential oils); the water vapor will help diffuse the tiny oil droplets into the air. If anything, it’s even more convenient than using a spray. For the best results, use a warm air humidifier; they tend to work better than the cold mist variety.

In terms of what essential oil to use, some popular choices include lavender, lemon, peppermint, lemongrass, orange, clary sage, cinnamon, rosemary, geranium, and eucalyptus.

Warning: Do not use essential oils if you have pets. Most are toxic to animals and can cause vomiting, diarrhea, seizures, liver damage, and other health problems, even if it’s simply inhaled.

2. White Vinegar

White vinegar is great in that it’s a natural deodorizer. This has to do with the fact that it contains acetic acid, which is capable of neutralizing alkaline odors (as opposed to covering them up with Febreze). Not that, but it’s also a mild disinfectant. The best part? Most of us probably already have some at home!

To use it, all you need to do is mix it with some water. More specifically, you want to combine two cups of water with one teaspoon of white vinegar, ideally in a spray bottle. Put the lid on, give it a shake, and you can use it to mist the air (it won’t leave behind a vinegary smell, for those who are wondering). If you want, you can even add a few drops of essential oils.

You can use it for other things too. For example, you can use it to deodorize your clothes, furniture, shoes—even your car. If anything, you just have to tweak the water to vinegar ratio.

And it’s completely safe (which isn’t surprising seeing as how it’s edible) for humans and animals. Your pets might not appreciate the smell, but don’t worry, it’ll fade once it dries. It’s much better than exposing them to chemicals, that’s for sure.

3. Lemon

Lemon is a natural cleaner with deodorizing properties. It contains citric acid, which is able to neutralize pungent compounds such as amines; this makes it a great DIY air freshener. It’s also cheap and easy to get, which makes it an even better choice.

Start by cutting the lemons horizontally. Use a small paring knife to release the fruit and hollow out each half (feel free to save it for lemonade). Add a bit of sea salt into a small bowl and mix it with the lemon rinds. The lemon will neutralize smells while the salt will help absorb stale odors.

Depending on the size of the lemons, you may need to add more than 1/2 cup of salt. If you want, you can also add some essential oils (20-25 drops will do). For example, you can mix the lemon with tea tree, eucalyptus, pine, or juniper. At the end of the day, it all depends on your preference.

Once everything is mixed, divide the lemon air fresher into small dishes and place them in different areas of the house.

Tip: Placing it in a sunny sport will help to diffuse the oils’ scent

Alternatively, you can make a lemon spray. Measure 1/8 cup of baking soda and add it to a small bowl. Next, pour in 2 cups of hot water. Stir until the powder is dissolved and add 1/2 cup of lemon juice (freshly squeeze). You can also add some lemon essential oil.

Allow the mixture to cool and pour it into a clean spray bottle. You can then spray it wherever you want.

4. Orange

Oranges, or more specifically orange peels, can be used to absorb odors; they’ll leave a fresh, citrus aroma behind, which will help refreshen up the room. And there are several ways that you can use it.

For example, you can make an orange peel air freshener spray. For this method, you’ll need the peels from two to four oranges. Place them into a glass jar with a tight-fitting lid and add 3-4 cups of rubbing alcohol (vodka works too). Make sure that the peels are completely submerged in the liquid and leave them there for at least one week.

Once you’ve let it sit, mix one part of orange-infused alcohol with one part of distilled water in a spray bottle. You can also add 10 to 20 drops of essential oils if you wish. Don’t forget to discard the leftover peels.

Alternatively, you can fill the orange peels with sea salt—both will help absorb odors. You can also add some dried herbs or spices for a more complex fragrance.

You can dry strips of orange peel in the sun (or use a food dehydrator) and leave them out around the house as well.

5. Baking Soda

Baking soda aka sodium bicarbonate can help neutralize stubborn odors. A weak base, it works by reacting with strong acidic and alkaline molecules, turning them into neutral-smelling salts.

To make a tabletop air freshener with baking soda, you’ll need a glass jar, baking soda, a tablespoon of herbs (e.g. dried cinnamon, lavender flowers), and a piece of breathable material such as burlap.

Start by filling the jar with baking soda—you want it to be approx. half full. Once it’s in, add the herbs. You can also add 5-10 drops of essential oils for added fragrance (consider adding a couple of drops to the underside of the fabric – that’ll help intensify the smell). When you’re finished, cover the jar with the fabric and you can place them somewhere in your house.

You can also create a spray. For this method, you’ll want to combine one tablespoon of baking soda with 5-6 drops of essential oil in a small dish or bowl. Stir until it’s combined and carefully pour the wetted powder into a spray bottle. Use a funnel if you have to – that’ll prevent the powder from getting everywhere. And as always, you can add your favorite essential oil to scent the freshener.

Once you’ve transferred the mixture into the spray bottle, add some water. Shake the bottle a few times to combine the ingredients and you can spray it throughout a room to freshen the air. You can also use it on specific items such as shoes or furniture.

6. Vanilla

While vanilla won’t neutralize the odors per se, it can help freshen the air in your home. For example, you can moisten cotton balls with vanilla extract and leave them in closets, basements, bathrooms, or other areas where unpleasant smells may arise.

You can also warm a little bit of vanilla extract in the oven; the aroma will permeate through the cooking device and into your home. If anything, it’ll smell like freshly baked cookies.

Start by setting the oven to 300F/150C (a little lower if your oven runs hot). Pour two tablespoons of vanilla extract into an oven-safe pan or dish and place it in the oven. You can also add a few vanilla bean pods to enhance the scent, but it’s not necessary.

Don’t use a non-stick pan—the chemicals on the surface will interact with the extract and prevent you from getting the true essence of the vanilla. And make sure to use the middle rack; that’ll prevent the vanilla extract from burning.

Bake the vanilla extract for up to 20 minutes. If you find the smell to be too strong, you can diffuse the fragrance by opening up a few windows.

7. Rubbing Alcohol

Not only is rubbing alcohol good for cleaning, but you can also use it to kill odor-causing bacteria (we recommend using 70% rubbing alcohol but 99% works as well – it’ll just be a little stronger). It also dissipates quickly so you won’t have to worry about it leaving a residue on your furniture or other items.

As it is, the easiest way to use it is to create a spray. In a large bowl, combine 1/4 cup of rubbing alcohol (aka isopropyl alcohol) with 1 cup of distilled water. For fragrance, you can add 15-20 drops of essential oils. Stir the ingredients together with a spoon and pour the mixture into a plastic spray bottle.

Shake the bottle again to disperse the alcohol into the water (you might need to do this a few times) and you can spray it with the freshener throughout the room.

Be careful not to use it around open flames, however, as rubbing alcohol is highly flammable.

8. Natural Candles

Candles will not only give your home a warm, cozy glow but they can also help reduce odors. If anything, you just want to make sure that it’s all-natural. For example, you can get candles made from coconut, soy, or beeswax. More often than not, they’ll be scented with essential oils. Some popular choices include lavender, amber, musk, and pine.

And make sure to use a sturdy candle holder; you don’t want it to tip over as that can quickly turn into a fire.

Other candle safety tips:

– Never leave a candle unattended in a room, especially if you have children or pets
– Don’t put a candle near anything that can catch fire (e.g. curtains)
– Be careful with glass candle holders as they can break if they get too hot
– Use a long match or lighter to light the candle
– Place the candle on a sturdy, flat surface
– Make a habit of blowing out the candle when you leave the room
– Don’t use candles in the bedroom or other places where you may fall asleep
– Always remove the wick trimmings
– Never try to touch or move a burning candle
– Burning candles should be kept at least three inches away from each other

The post Natural Alternatives to Febreze – The Best Air Fresheners For Your Home appeared first on Gazette Review.

From Tough Childhood to Stardom

Demi Gene Guynes was born on November 11, 1962 to parents Charles Harmon, an Air Force service man,and Virginia Beverly née King. Charles left Virginia after two months of marriage and before Demi was born. Her birth name was believed to be Demetria, but the actress herself confirmed on Twitter that it was just Demi, and it was based on a hair product her mother saw on a magazine.

She was born and raised in Roswell, New Mexico, and grew up with a very challenging childhood in a trailer park. When Demi was three months of age, her mother married Danny Guynes, a newspaper ad space salesman. She grew up believing him to be her biological father. Both Danny and Virginia were alcoholic, and their verbal arguments escalated into beatings.

Her stepfather’s pursuit of a stable job, and escape from debts, forced the family to move a lot of times. From the age of five until her teenage years, Demi’s family did not stay in one place for too long, and due to this she was unable to have long term friendships and was forced to transfer schools a lot of times. In the long run, their frequent moving taught Demi how to quickly adapt to new surroundings and new faces, and she believed that this was a major factor in her becoming an actress.

Demi described her young self as being spectacled, having very short hair, and clumsy. She was also born with a crossed right eye, forcing her to wear a black eye patch to conceal it until its correction with surgeries. She also had problems with her kidneys, resulting in recurrent hospitalizations.

At the age of 13, Demi learned that Danny was not her biological father after finding the latter’s marriage certificate with Virginia. Ultimately she found out the truth about her real father, Charles Harmon. Danny and Virginia eventually divorced two years later, and the former committed suicide a month before Demi’s 17^th birthday. Danny ended his life by carbon monoxide poisoning.

Demi and her mother moved to a small apartment in Los Angeles, and she was enrolled in Fairfax High. At 16 years of age she dropped out of school, lived solo in a new apartment, and worked as a debt collector. As her crossed right eye was corrected, Demi tried her hand in modelling. Some of her ventures in being a model involved posing nude for Oui, a men’s magazine, and as a pin-up girl in Europe.

It was also during this year when she met Freddy Moore, a band member of The Kats, in a Los Angelesnightclub named Troubadour. By that time Freddy was still married to another woman, but that did not stop the two from moving in together. Freddy later on divorced his wife and married the 18 year old Demi. She co-wrote the songs “Changing”, “Heat”, and “It’s Not a Rumour” (she also appeared in the music video for this song) with Freddy for his renamed band the Nu Kats.

Nastassja Kinski, an aspiring German actress, lived right next door to Demi and Freddy. She helped Demi learn how to read scripts and inspired her to take up drama classes. She played as Corri in a supporting role for the 1981 teen drama Choices. A year later, she had her first major role in the science fiction / horror film Parasite as Patricia Welles, with her husband Freddy playing a minor role as Arn.

Demi landed a regular role for two years in the long-running television show General Hospital as the investigative journalist Jackie Templeton. She also briefly appeared in the 1982 comedy Young Doctors in Love.

Demi’s acting career soared to new heights, and with it new challenges arose. She used her earnings to buy a house situated in Hollywood, with rooms for Virginia and younger half-brother Morgan Guynes. However, she did not know how to handle her sudden newfound fame, and some of the salaries she received were spent on a lifestyle of drugs, booze, and party. Her mother even alleged that she and Demi were both into heavy drinking, and doing drugs.

In 1984, Demi played the role of Holly Trumbull in the first episode of the television series The Master, Laura Victor in the film No Small Affair, and Nicole Hollis in Blame It on Rio. 1984 also saw her divorce with Freddy, and her casting in the drama film St. Elmo’s Fire along with the Brat Pack (the nickname given to the group of young stars who were often casted together in teen movies) members Rob Lowe, Emilio Estevez, Judd Nelson, Ally Sheedy, and others.

Joel Schumacher, the film’s director, threatened to fire Demi from the cast if she did not get sober. The actress sought rehabilitation, and after several weeks she went back to the set clean and sober. From that point on, Demi never looked back again to her previous lifestyle. The film, released in 1985, was a success in the box office, but gathered negative reviews. It did, however, give Demi some international recognition.

She began dating fellow actor and Brat Pack member Emilio Estevez, was engaged to him in 1985, and already set December 1986 as their wedding date. The two starred in the 1986 film Wisdom (which was also written and directed by Estevez). In the same year, Demi starred alongside John Cusack in One Crazy Summer, and Rob Lowe in About Last Night…. Demi and Rob received praises for their performances, with Moore hailed as “especially impressive”.

Demi broke up with Emilio in 1987, met Bruce Willis in the same year during the screening of Stakeout (a film where Emilio played a lead role), and eventually married with their ceremony presided by the singer Little Richard. They had their first child, Rumer Glenn, on August 16, 1988. Demi also starred in the apocalyptic film The Seventh Sign in 1988. Her performance gathered some praise, but the film did not fare well with critics. The next year she starred with Sean Penn and Robert De Niro in the comedy We’re No Angels, and in the episode “When Girls Collide” in the television series Moonlighting which starred her then husband.

1990 was the biggest year during this time of Demi’s career thanks to the romantic film Ghost. With Patrick Swayze and Whoopi Goldberg, the film earned around $218 million and took home awards and received nominations. Demi received critical acclaim and international fame for her performance as Molly Jensen. She also made an appearance in the “Dead Right” episode of the television series Tales from the Crypt.

Things were not going so well for her mother Virginia. She was on a downward spiral of alcohol and drugs, not to mention the growing list of criminal records ranging from arson to driving under influence. Demi helped her mother by bailing her out of jail whenever she was arrested, and paying for her rehabilitation in the treatment center Hazelden, but Virginia walked out of it. Because of this, Demi severed all contact with her mother.

With the critical acclaim of Ghost, Demi had more film offers for 1991, but are not as successful as herprevious work. She starred with her then husband and Glenn Headly in the drama thriller Mortal Thoughts, with Chevy Chase in the horror comedy Nothing but Trouble, and in the romantic comedy The Butcher’s Wife with Jeff Daniels. The last two films earned Demi a nomination for the Worst Actress award during the 1991 Razzie Awards and 1991 Golden Raspberry Awards respectively.

1991 was also when Demi posed nude for the cover of Vanity Fair while being seven months pregnant with her second child, Scout LaRue. It gathered a multitude of varying reactions, and Demi responded by challenging the perception of the public regarding motherhood and sensuality. Scout was born on July 20, 1991. Virginia would later parody her daughter’s nude cover pose by doing one of her own for the magazine High Society two years later in an attempt to humiliate Demi.

Demi’s films in the following years were box office hits. She starred with Tom Cruise and Jack Nicholson in the 1992 legal drama A Few Good Men. Not only did the film receive Academy Awards and Golden Globe nominations, Demi was also praised along with her fellow stars for their powerful performances.

1993 saw the release of the drama Indecent Proposal with Woody Harrelson and Robert Redford. Despite being successful in the box office, the film gathered mixed reviews and Demi received a Worst Actress nomination in the Razzie Awards.

Her third child, Tallulah Belle, was born on February 3, 1994. The year was also the release of the film adaptation of the Michael Crichton novel Disclosure. It proved that Demi is an impressive femme fatale despite the fact that it was her first time playing a villainous role, and the movie itself was a success.

1995 was not kind to Demi’s career as the films she starred on were critically panned, namely the drama The Scarlet Letter with Robert Duvall and Gary Oldman, and comedy drama Now and Then with a large cast, in which Demi was also a producer and her daughter Rumer played a supporting role.

During this same year Demi received a $12.5 million pay for her work in the film Striptease, making her the highest paid actress in the history of Hollywood by that time. Striptease was released in 1996, and her daughter Rumer played the role of the main character’s daughter. The movie was critically panned, and won six Golden Raspberry awards out of the seven nominations.

Demi’s other movies this year are The Juror with Alec Baldwin, animated film Beavis and Butt-Head Do America with then husband Bruce Willis as the voices of Dallas and Muddy Grimes respectively, and The Hunchback of Notre Dame as the voice of Esmeralda. She also produced and starred in the television movie If These Walls Could Talk, and it gathered lots of nominations ranging from the Emmy Awards to the Satellite Awards.

After many years of estrangement, Demi and her mother Virginia reunited in 1997, but it was because of the latter’s brain cancer diagnosis. The actress, along with her three daughters, stayed with and took care of Virginia in her home at Farmington, New Mexico, for three months until her last breath in July 1998.

1997 was the year when things between Demi and Bruce started to go downhill. The couple were reported by tabloids to be spending too much time apart from each other, resulting in extramarital affairs. Tabloid articles detailing Demi’s alleged partying with Johnny Depp (who recently split with Kate Moss), and Leonardo DiCaprio’s visit in her Malibu mansion have popped up.

Add to their growing list of problems was the firing of Tallulah Belle’s nanny, Kim Tannahill, due to misappropriation of funds, failure to properly perform duties,  and violation of their confidentiality agreement.  The couple filed a lawsuit against Tannahill, and the latter responded with a countersuit. The ex-nanny claimed that the couple utilized threats, force, and intimidation throughout her employment, false imprisonment while she was verbally abused by Demi, that she was never paid for her overtime work, and was made her go to long trips with no extra pay. She also added that Demi had an addiction to prescription drugs, suffered from severe mood swings, and that the couple were very inattentive to the kids. The couple’s attorney dismissed those claims as pure fiction and an attempt by a disgruntled former employee to extort money from the actors. A federal judge eventually threw out the ex-nanny’s lawsuit in April 1998.

The couple’s drifting apart eventually led to their separation in June 1998, with their divorce filed on October 18, 2000, and Demi held custody of their daughters.

Demi still continued with her acting career. She went on a vigorous training regimen and shaved her head for the film G.I. Jane in 1997. The film was successful in the box office, but with lukewarm reviews and Demi’s efforts only landed her with a Worst Actress Razzie Award. She also played a role in the comedy Deconstructing Harry. Finally she starred with Jon Bon Jovi in the movie Destination Anywhere: The Film. 1997 marked her last year in acting before disappearing from the spotlight, but she did produce the immensely successful Austin Powers: International Man of Mystery (1997) and its two sequels.

Early in 1999, she started dating Oliver Whitcomb, a martial arts instructor and was seven years younger than Demi. Their relationship was believed to have lasted four years before calling it quits.

Demi came back to the big screen in the 2000 psychological drama Passion of Mind. The film received mostly negative reviews, and Demi received a Worst Actress Razzie Award nomination. She again disappeared from the movie scene, refusing offers of movie roles, only to come around in 2002 to again provide the voice of Esmeralda in The Hunchback of Notre Dame II.

She went back to acting in 2003 as the main antagonist for the film Charlie’s Angels: Full Throttle. Her ex-husband Bruce Willis played a minor role in the film. She also appeared in the episode “Women and Children First” in the television series Will & Grace. She began dating actor Ashton Kutcher, and the two eventually married on September 24, 2005 in a lavish ceremony that was attended by Bruce Willis. A rabbi officiated their marriage due to the couple’s following of Kabbalah. Their 15-year age difference was a favorite of the tabloid press, stating that the relationship was a publicity stunt.

In a situation similar to Disclosure, the ex-manager of Bruce and Demi’s Idaho ranch, Lawrence Bass, claimed that the actress sexually harassed him. He detailed that Demi, during his employment at the ranch, gave him a shoulder massage in 2001, and groped his inner thigh in 2002. After refusing her advances, she “terminated” his employment later on. State investigators from Idaho ruled no probable cause to these claims, and the case was eventually dismissed. In fact, it was Bass who had seven restraining orders, and an arrest warrant for not responding to a harassment complaint.

After three years, Demi again went back to acting, starring in the mystery drama Half Light, and with an ensemble cast on the historical drama Bobby. In 2007 she starred with Kevin Costner and William Hurt in the thriller Mr. Brooks, and with Michael Caine and Lambert Wilson in the 2008 crime thriller Flawless.

2009 saw the launch of Demi and Ashton’s non-profit NGO, The Demi and Ashton Foundation. Also known as DNA, its mission is to fight sexual exploitation and human trafficking of children. Later on it was renamed Thorn.  Demi also starred in drama Happy Tears with Parker Posey and Rip Thorn, The Joneses with Amber Heard and David Duchovny, and animated television movie The Magic 7 as the voice of U-Z-Onesa.

The couple caught the ire of animal rights organization PETA in 2009 for wearing animal fur, along with other celebrities. They were on the top 1 and 2 of the organization’s “worst dressed” poll. She would later help the organization in banning the use of bullhooks during the performance of circus elephants.

In 2010 she starred in the action movie Bunraku with Josh Hartnett and Woody Harrelson, in 2011 comedy drama Another Happy Day, and 2011 thriller Margin Call. The 2012 interview series in the Lifetime network The Conversation had Demi Moore as the executive producer.

Demi’s Downward Spiral

Demi’s relationship with Ashton were bogged down by rumors of the latter’s infidelities. Celebrity magazine STAR reported that Ashton was seen by an eyewitness groping and kissing a young blonde in Los Angeles. This was followed by the story told by a certain Brittney Jones who claimed that she gave her number to the actor in a bowling spot, and that they had repeated sexual encounters whenever Demi was out of town. Ashton made it clear that the accusations were nothing but defamations perpetrated by the magazine.

It was also in 2010 when a viral video of Demi appeared, where she was grinding on Snoop Dogg during a Las Vegas performance while Ashton cheered, further showing her erratic behavior.

The couple went to Israel for a “spiritual journey” and to speak in a conference, while some thought that they were going to renew their vows. In their sixth year anniversary the couple were apart. Demi was busy promoting Project Five, while Ashton was said to have spent it on a one night stand with a model named Sarah Leal (who made the revelation), who he met while in a party with fellow actor Danny Masterson. After this exposé, the couple tried to patch things up and attended Kabbalah sessions multiple times.

Cryptic tweets posted on Demi’s Twitter account hinted at grave problems between the couple. Demi finally announced the end of their marriage in November 2011. The couple lived apart until their divorce was filed a year later, then finalized on November 2013.

During their separation, Demi was purported to again battle problems with substances and eating disorders. She was rushed in a Los Angeles hospital after suffering from an apparent seizure due to nitrous oxide inhalation. The emergency even became a death hoax that spread on Twitter.

Her daughters refuse to speak to her, even considered getting a restraining order against Demi. They wanted their mother to seek professional help.

Friends noted her frail appearance, and Demi dropped out of an appearance in the film Lovelace due to her health. She checked into a rehab center in Utah named Cirque Lodge for her addiction to Adderall (a prescription drug), and anorexia. After her rehabilitation, she emerged looking refreshed and even posted a tweet asking for suggestions on a new Twitter name (which was @MrsKutcher), and her daughters patched things up with her.

Demi still made big screen appearances. She played a role in the 2013 romcom LOL with Miley Cyrus, and in the drama Very Good Girls. Demi was also spotted with her daughter Rumer in a Kundalini yoga retreat held in New Mexico.

What’s Demi Moore Doing Now In 2026 – Recent Updates

Demi recently starred in the drama film, Please Baby Please, alongside Andrea Riseborough, Karl Glusman, and Harry Melling. Premiered on January 26th, 2022, at the International Film Festival Rotterdam, the movie centered around a newlywed couple who witnesses a murder; the event later awakens a quandary about their sexual identity.

She also made an appearance in the action-comedy, The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent, which starred Nicholas Cage, Pedro Pascal, Sharon Horgan, Tiffany Haddish, and Ike Barinholtz. In it, she played the role of ‘Olivia Cage’, Cage’s in-movie fictional ex-wife.

Prior to that, she had starred in the dystopian sci-fi thriller film, Songbird, which is based on the COVID-19 pandemic. However, it was overwhelmingly panned by critics upon its release. Some even considered the movie “fear-mongering propaganda.”

And according to her IMDb page, she will be starring in an upcoming film called The Substance alongside Margaret Qualley, Tom Morton, and Ray Liotta (the plot has yet to be released).

In terms of television appearances, she played a recurring role in the sci-fi drama series, Brave New World, which was released on Peacock on July 15, 2020. Not only that, but she also played various roles in Empire and Animals, which came out in 2017 and 2018 respectively.

Outside of acting, she has also appeared in Late Night with Seth Meyers, Entertainment Tonight, BILD LIVE, Superstar, CNN Heroes Salutes, The Late Late Show with James Jorden, and Dish Nation. She also starred in the podcast documentary series, Dirty Diana, and was invited as a guest to Literally! with Rob Lowe. She also made cameo appearances at Rihanna’s Savage x Fenty Vol. 2 fashion show where she modeled lingerie.

In September 2019, she also released a memoir titled, Inside Out, through HarperCollins, which she promoted on Good Morning America. In the United States, it debuted at the top of The New York Times’  Hardcover Nonfiction Bestsellers List and the Combined Print and E-Book Nonfiction Bestsellers List.

As of this writing, she has more than 4.4 million followers on Twitter, which she uses as a platform to raise awareness of slavery and sexual trafficking. For her work on the topic, she was given a Visionary Woman Award by Visionary Women, a Los Angeles-based nonprofit organization, in 2018.

She also posts regularly on Instagram where she has over 2.9 million followers. You can also check out her official Facebook page for the newest updates and announcements (she tends to crosspost between her accounts).

The post What Happened to Demi Moore – 2026 Update & News appeared first on Gazette Review.

Read on to know more about Harrison Ford’s humble beginnings, his rise to stardom, and his future projects:

“Harry’s” Beginnings

Harrison Ford was born on July 13, 1942 to parents Christopher and Dorothy. His father once worked in vaudeville, just like Harrison’s grandfather, before jumping to a career in radio then television advertising. His mother used to be a radio actress who then became a dedicated homemaker.

Young Harrison, or “Harry” as how he was known, grew up as a shy boy who only got average grades and did not fancy pursuing a career in acting or office work, instead he wanted to be a coalman or a forest ranger. He was enrolled in M.S. Meltzer Junior High, and his act of keeping a low profile resulted in bullying from his schoolmates.

Two years later, he transferred to Maine East. Here he involved himself in various pursuits such as joining audiovisual and model railway clubs, and his involvement in the former landed him a spot first as a technician then as a sportscaster on WMTH, the school’s radio station.

During his teenage years, Harrison also pursued part-time jobs such as a luxury yacht cook, flower delivery boy, tree trimmer, and as a pipe store worker where he developed his habit of smoking. After finishing high school, he then went to Ripon College and studied philosophy and English literature. During his college days he joined the Zeta Tau chapter of the Sigma Nu fraternity, pursued publishing with roommate and fraternity brother Bill Haljun, and even became part of a musical trio with his friends.

However, his grades were steadily declining, and this did not bode well for Harrison especially as his father forked out quite a fortune for his tuition fees. In an attempt to salvage his grades, Harrison signed up for drama class and was cast in different plays like The Fantastiks, The Skin of Our Teeth, and The Threepenny Opera. His exposure on the stage helped Harrison deal with his shyness, and eventually his stage fright was replaced by actually having fun while on stage.

Harrison eventually realized that he is going to have difficulties making a living with the degree that he chose in college. His doubts made him think twice in finishing his studies, and this resulted in Harrison getting booted from the graduating class a mere three days prior to the ceremonies in 1964.

During the summer of 1964, Harrison married his college sweetheart Mary Louise Marquardt. In that same year, Harrison involved himself in summer stock at the Belfry Players while working on the side as a handyman. While playing roles on plays such as Night of the Iguana, Sunday in New York, Little Mary Sunshine, and Dark of the Moon, Harrison also helped in the construction and design of the theater’s sets. His wife worked as the box office ticket sales head and helped with the work on the sets as well.

In the long run, Harrison no longer felt the enthusiasm he initially had. He was unable to unleash his full acting potential because of the parts that were being offered to him. He did appreciate the “training” he received on acting during his stint at the theater, and Harrison felt that he significantly improved in terms of his chosen career.

After the summer stock was over, Harrison and Mary decided to take the next big step on acting. They traveled west to California and stayed in an apartment while working on various jobs. Harrison sold paint, made pizza, and worked as a rigger on a yacht, while Mary became a receptionist for a doctor. It was during Harrison’s work as an assistant buyer in the department store Bullock’s when he got his trademark chin scar. Harrison unintentionally veered off the road while trying to fasten his seat belt, hitting a telephone pole and thrusting the actor’s face to the steering wheel.

In 1965, a Laguna Beach Playhouse theater group held an open casting and Harrison won the role of Clay Wingate in John Brown’s Body. Harrison’s performance here earned him many praises from critics and newspapers. Ian Bernard, a Hollywood composer, was among those who witnessed Harrison’s performance. He suggested to a colleague in Columbia Pictures that Harrison should be interviewed by one of the studio executives.  The interview pushed through, but did not end in Harrison’s favor, that is until he was approached by one of the interviewers while he was at the restroom. The interviewer asked Harrison to come back to the office where he was interviewed earlier.

Harrison then became part of the studio’s New Talent program with a weekly pay of $150 for seven years. The said program subjected Harrison and 11 other members to various tasks, ranging from imitating other famous stars, posing for various photo layouts for magazines, and other jobs that Harrison deemed as a wrong approach when it comes to the development of an aspiring actor. The studio even wanted Harrison to pick a new screen name to avoid confusion with a late silent film actor who was also named Harrison Ford. Harrison initially suggested “Kurt Affair”, but it was turned down and the studio settled by adding a J. as his middle name.

Harrison eventually had his first ever uncredited onscreen appearance in the film Dead Heat on a Merry-Go-Round as a bellboy with some bits of dialogue with the main character, Eli Kotch. Harrison was ecstatic in finally having a film debut. His joy was later snuffed when he was summoned by one of the studio’s executives after the latter watched a copy of the film prior to its release. The executive did not like Harrison’s performance as an extra, saying that it lacked charisma, and the young actor’s response was taken as an insult.

He played another uncredited role as an irate motorist in the 1967 romantic comedy Luv. Also, he had his first credited role at the western A Time for Killing as Harrison J. Ford. Harrison had television appearances in 1967 as well on the shows The Virginian and Ironside. His first son, Benjamin, was also born in 1967.

A year later, Columbia Pictures wanted to prematurely terminate Harrison’s tenure. The unprofessional way that he was informed about it led to Harrison fighting back with insults and not signing the papers for his termination. Nevertheless he was still axed from the studios.

The young actor managed to avoid getting drafted to Vietnam by sending a long letter rife with explanations and philosophies that left the authorities confused, ending with Harrison not being called for duty.

Days after getting fired, Harrison had signed a contract with Universal Pictures and starred in the 1968 western Journey to Shiloh. During the same year he made an uncredited appearance in an episode of the television series The Mod Squad.

One year later, Harrison had more television appearances and without even a single movie. My Friend Tony, The F.B.I., and Love, American Style were the shows he appeared on in 1969. His second son, Willard, was born during the same year.

With the lack of work opportunities, Harrison was given a suggestion to try photography, and was hired for the production of The Doors documentary Feast of Friends in 1969 as a second unit cameraman.

The seventies started with more appearances for Harrison. First was an uncredited role in the 1970 film Zabriskie Point, followed by the romance comedy Getting Straight. His other television series appearances include Dan August in 1971, Gunsmoke in 1972, Kung Fu and Petrocelli in 1974, and television movies The Intruders in 1970, Dynasty in 1976, and The Possessed in 1977. His performance in the 1975 courtroom drama Judgment: The Court Martial of Lieutenant William Calley was praised by critics as intense and as the production’s emotional highlight.

With two kids and a new house in Hollywood Hills, Harrison also took the time to master carpentry so he can perform repairs on his home and take additional jobs related to the skill to supplement his earnings in acting. His skill in carpentry attracted high-profile clients such as Brazilian musician Sergio Mendes, Richard Dreyfuss, James Coburn, Valerie Harper, and Sally Kellerman, to name a few.

Upon suggestion of his producer, Fred Roos, Harrison met with Patricia McQueeney, a talent agent, and the two became professional partners. With carpentry being a lucrative job, Harrison was actually able to choose what role he wanted among those offered by McQueeney, and turn down those that he did not like.  He thought of starting a furniture factory as an alternate source of income should his acting career go south.

That is until Harrison received a script from Fred Roos that made a profound impact on him. Harrison
requested to meet with the script’s director who happened to be George Lucas. The film was American Graffiti, and Lucas even offered to raise Harrison’s pay rate as the latter was weighing the income he can make on the film against his carpentry business. Released in 1973, the film was a financial success, won several Golden Globe awards, received Oscar nominations, and even its soundtrack sold like hotcakes. To Harrison, he felt that this film was the first time he experienced being around people who actually listened to his opinions and suggestions, and cared about doing things in a right way.

Harrison was next cast into the thriller The Conversation as Martin Stett, and he suggested to director Francis Coppola that he add a subtle homosexual twist to the character, to which the director agreed. The film was released in 1974 to much critical acclaim and again bagged several awards. Harrison’s efforts, however, were not that much recognized but he took the experience as an advancement to his acting skills. After the film, he went back to carpentry work with a few television appearances. Coppola hired him to install a doorway in the office, and it was quite a humiliating experience for Harrison as the stars he worked with in past films and television shows greeted him while he did his craft.

Fred Roos always sought to help out his good friend Harrison. When George Lucas was looking for the cast on his upcoming science fiction film, Roos made it known that Harrison was available. Harrison was brought in but only to read lines for the others and not audition, and Lucas was having doubts as he did not want to cast the same people in American Graffiti. In the end, Harrison got the role as the way he read his lines was impressive, compared to those who were actually auditioning.

Star Wars was released in 1977, and Harrison’s role as the smuggler Han Solo was one of his most iconic roles throughout his career. The film is considered to be among the greatest and most important movies of all time, grossing almost half a billion dollars, and taking home numerous accolades. Harrison’s earnings from the movie guaranteed creative freedom and long term financial security, resulting in him resigning from his carpentry business once and for all. He would later appear in the film’s future installments, The Empire Strikes Back (1980) and Return of the Jedi (1983) which are all blockbuster hits as well, except for the notorious 1978 television movie Star Wars Holiday Special.

The next film that Harrison found interesting was the 1977 comedy drama Heroes. Even though the film was not a box office success, Harrison’s performance as Ken Boyd was praised, and he grew to like his character. Another war movie starring Harrison was released in 1978, titled Force 10 from Navarone, followed by yet another war movie in 1979 Apocalypse Now where he played the character Colonel G. Lucas. His last two movies for the seventies include Hanover Street, The Frisco Kid, and More American Graffiti.

1979 marked the divorce of Harrison and Mary, and their two kids moved with the latter while Harrison stayed in a different apartment. Later on, Harrison dated Melissa Mathison, an executive assistant of Coppola during the filming of Apocalypse Now, and the couple eventually married in 1983.

The eighties started with a project from George Lucas and Steven Spielberg currently on the making. It was a different movie that did not tread on intergalactic adventures. Spielberg wanted Harrison as he saw an adventurous spirit on the actor while portraying Han Solo, but Lucas thought that it may confuse the masses as Harrison will portray two different heroes on vastly different settings. Then they thought of picking Tom Selleck, but the actor was busy with other projects despite passing the audition with flying colors.

Eventually Harrison was put on board as the fearless adventurer Indiana Jones.

Harrison trained physically and traveled to different locations to shoot exotic scenes. The most memorable one was in Tunisia where Harrison and most of the crew contracted dysentery. This resulted in a sudden change in a scene where Indiana Jones was supposed to fight a scimitar-wielding Egyptian assassin in a marketplace. The two already rehearsed their fight before, but during the day of filming Harrison was not feeling well. He asked permission first from the director if he can improvise with a faster way of dealing with the antagonist. With a single shot of his revolver, Harrison dispatched his foe much to the laughter of the crew who were unaware of that last-minute change.

Released in 1981, Raiders of the Lost Ark won Oscar awards and earned big in the box office, and the toils Harrison went through during production were indeed worth it. He was now popular in the eyes of the public for portraying a hero on the ground, and another in space. Just like Indy, in 2008, Harrison would become part of the Archaeological Institute of America (AIA), helping raise public awareness regarding archaeological matters.

Another science fiction film came knocking on Harrison’s door. Director Ridley Scott saw Harrison to be a good fit as the protagonist of Blade Runner. Harrison agreed to the role, donning a jacket and sporting a shorter haircut so the public won’t see Indy or Han Solo on the screen. However, he couldn’t get along with the director. Harrison wanted to portray Rick Deckard (the protagonist) on a more human side, but the director wanted the opposite. Along with the fact that the director did not care much about the actors, Harrison stated that this was the first time when he was not happy in shooting the film. The film was released in 1982 to a mediocre reception, but eventually it became a cult film and labelled as among the best science fiction movies.

Harrison’s career was nonstop. Indy’s second adventure, The Temple of Doom, was released a year after Han Solo’s third escapade in Return of the Jedi. Both were immensely successful, but the former was criticized for its controversial portrayal of Hinduism and for being violent compared to the past Indiana Jones movie. His wife’s career was also on the right track, having finished writing the script for Steven Spielberg’s family movie E.T. the Extraterrestrial.

In 1985, Harrison starred in the crime drama Witness. Director Peter Weir stated that Harrison always had ideas for the script that better improve the character he portrayed. A year later, both actor and director again worked in tandem for the 1986 thriller The Mosquito Coast. Harrison always mentioned the film, saying that it was his favorite, but unfortunately it did not do very well. Harrison voiced out his complain, a first in his career, stating that the film was not treated appropriately by the critics. Melissa later calmed him down with the news of her pregnancy.

Melissa went to Paris to meet with Roman Polanski, a director who proposed the idea of adapting the famous comic strip Tintin. Harrison accompanied his wife as he was worried about the recent string of terrorist attacks. The adaptation never pushed through, but Roman and Harrison came up with an entirely different film idea.

Malcolm Ford was born while filming was already underway. A year later, the film was released in the United States. Titled Frantic, it was a thriller that dealt with the sudden disappearance of the protagonist’s wife, and Harrison’s performance was again highly praised.

Harrison and his family went back to the United States, along with another famous actor Clint Eastwood. The two actors met in Paris while Clint was working on a film.

1988 saw the release of Working Girl, a comedy film that is a welcome change to Harrison’s usual lineup of thrillers and adventures. It was light with absolutely no fight scenes or running for dear life. His chin scar was even mentioned in the story. The film was a success, and it earned Harrison a Golden Globe nomination.

The next year, another Indy adventure was released. The Last Crusade starred Harrison along with Sean Connery as Indy’s father, and fellow The Mosquito Coast star River Phoenix as the younger Indy. Again it was met with positive reviews, was a box office hit, and had awards and nominations.

Harrison Ford in the 90’s

The nineties began with the birth of Georgia Ford. Later on, Harrison would become a member of Conservation International, an environmental organization, and his efforts in saving certain animals from extinction gave him the honor of naming a newfound butterfly species. He named it after Georgia. The new species of ant and spider were both given Harrison’s name as well, Pheidole harrisonfordi and Calponia harrisonfordi respectively. He would also become an outspoken supporter of the restoration of Hetch Hetchy Valley in Yosemite National Park.

1990 also saw the release of mystery film and blockbuster hit Presumed Innocent. A year later, drama film Regarding Henry was released and was met with lukewarm reaction. Harrison was also included in the list of Hollywood’s richest actors, ranking at number 11.

After Alec Baldwin’s portrayal of CIA analyst Jack Ryan in the first adaptation of the Tom Clancy novel The Hunt for Red October, Harrison took the role of the said character in the Patriot Games in 1992. He would later reprise the role in the 1994 release of Clear and Present Danger. Both were successful in the box office.

He came back to the world of television series by appearing in one episode of The Young Indiana Jones Chronicles in 1993. He also starred in the thriller The Fugitive in the same year, along with Tommy Lee Jones, and it was among the year’s biggest films with a lot of nominations received and awards won.

In 1994, Harrison was awarded with the Star of the Century Award during the ShoWest Convention. The next year, he was cast in the remake of the 1954 romantic comedy film Sabrina, but it did not fare well as fans were quick to compare the two versions (with the most recent adaptation being the inferior one). Still, Harrison received a Golden Globe nomination for his efforts. In 1997 he starred with Brad Pitt in the action film The Devil’s Own, and the two were reported to have clashed over the script and characterization. The film met only moderate praise, and the two actors refused to talk about the controversy regarding the film’s production.

Ever since his childhood days, Harrison grew up with a keen interest in aviation. He tried his hand on flying lessons, but was forced to quit because of problems with money. Now that he earned a lot more than he used to, Harrison not only managed to finish his lessons and obtain a pilot’s license, he also bought his own helicopter and planes. His passion for flying proved to be useful as he was able to rescue people while on duty at the Search and Rescue of Teton County, and he helped children experience flying in the Young Eagles program. He also suffered from injuries wrought by flying-related accidents.

One can imagine his exuberance when he was allowed to step inside the presidential plane Air Force One by the then president Bill Clinton (whom he was good friends with). Aside from his fascination with aircraft, thiswas also in preparation for his upcoming role as the tough President James Marshall in the action film Air Force One. After its release in 1997, the film was touted as among the best action films in that decade, and it was said that the president himself watched the move two times, loved it, and even noted the features in the film’s airplane that the real Air Force One lacked.

His piloting skills were put to use during the filming of his next movie, Six Days Seven Nights, as his character was a pilot and there were a lot of flying involved. He was paired with Anne Heche, 27 years his junior, but their age gap did not get in the way of their chemistry. The film was released in 1998, earned double its production budget, but failed to please the critics.

The decade ended with the drama romance film Random Hearts, which unfortunately flopped. Still, the nineties ended well for Harrison as he was awarded with the Favorite All-Time Movie Star Award in the People’s Choice Awards.

Harrison welcomed 2000 with the Lifetime Achievement Award from the American Film Institute, the Favorite Motion Picture Actor Award again in the People’s Choice Awards, and the release of thriller film What Lies Beneath with Michelle Pfeiffer. The film did earn quite well in the box office, but did not find favor in the eyes of critics. However, the two leading stars won awards for their performance.

The new year also ended with a shocking announcement from Harrison: he and Melissa were about to split up. Harrison initially moved out of their apartment in Manhattan and was alleged to have lived a bachelor’s lifestyle of partying, booze, and women (Melissa was said to have seen a picture of Harrison with Lara Flynn Boyle, ex-girlfriend of Jack Nicholson, at a party). The couple went back together around Christmas, apparently an attempt to patch things up, but in the end it still led to divorce. It was ranked as one of the most expensive divorces in Hollywood, amounting to a settlement of nearly $90 million.

Two years later, Harrison met Calista Flockhart during the 2002 Golden Globe Awards. The two began dating, and eventually got married in 2010. Thriller film K-19: The Widowmaker was also released in 2002, and Harrison earned praises for his performance but the film was a flop. Based on real life events surrounding the K-19 Russian submarine, the film was met with controversy due to its portrayal of the Russian sailors (who were also the heroes in the film) as they were being shown as amateurs and pirates.

Harrison again engaged himself in comedy in the 2003 film Hollywood Homicide, another film based on true to life experiences, and yet again Harrison was reported to not getting along with co-star Josh Hartnett during production. It failed to meet both its budget and the expectations of critics. Three years later, thriller film Firewall would suffer the same fate of being a box office bomb, despite Harrison’s performance.

He appeared in the 2004 short Water to Wine as Jethro the Bus Driver. During this year he also turned down an offer to star in Syriana, a thriller that deals with the oil industry. He would later express regret in the said refusal.

19 years after his last adventure, Indiana Jones again appeared on the big screen in Kingdom of the Crystal Skull released in 2008. It did gather mostly positive reviews and grossed six times its budget, but there were also negative reactions. It won and earned nominations for both” best” and worst” awards. Also in 2008 Harrison provided narration for the documentary Dalai Lama Renaissance.

Harrison starred in the 2009 crime film Crossing Over and it gathered highly negative reviews. He also appeared in the controversial Sacha Baron Cohen mockumentary Bruno but only for a few seconds.

Harrison and Brendan Fraser starred in the 2010 drama Extraordinary Measures, but the film did not manage to gather much positive reviews, not to mention that it bombed. His second film for the year, Morning Glory, was somewhat more favorable in earnings and reviews.

2011 saw the release of the film adaptation of the graphic novel Cowboys & Aliens. Harrison portrayed the role of cattleman Woodrow Dolarhyde, along with Daniel Craig and Olivia Wilde. It failed to do well in the box office, and the reviews were lukewarm at best. Harrison received a Best Supporting Actor nomination during the Saturn Awards for his performance.

Two years later, Harrison had more appearances on the big screen. First was in the sports movie 42 which was successful, thriller Paranoia and science fiction Ender’s Game which are both among 2013’s box office bombs, and a cameo appearance in the highly successful comedy Anchorman 2: The Legend Continues. He later joins the roster in the 2014 action film The Expendables 3.

Harrison Ford Now in 2018 – What’s He Doing

Harrison’s first film in 2015 was the fantasy romance The Age of Adaline. The film had lukewarm reception, but Harrison’s performance was hailed as “memorable”.

Perhaps one of his most awaited appearance on the big screen for this year was the return of Han Solo in Star Wars: The Force Awakens. He appeared in the last few seconds of the film’s second teaser, much to the delight of fans worldwide. The now 71-year old Harrison suffered from a fractured leg during filming, but he did manage to recover quickly. The film was released in December 2015, earning $529 million during the opening weekend, and more than a billion in just 12 days, and breaking many other records in the box office.

So far Harrison is slated to appear in Star Wars: Episode VIII, in an upcoming Blade Runner sequel, and in an announced fifth installment of Indiana Jones.

The post What Happened to Harrison Ford – 2018 News & Updates appeared first on Gazette Review.

Good thing there are natural choices when it comes to removing eye makeup. These are safe, gets the job done, and even delivers skin benefits due to their healthy contents.

Make sure that you do a skin test first to check if you are allergic to a certain alternative mentioned here.

1. Extra Virgin Olive Oil

• Olive oil has been around since the ancient times with a multitude of uses that benefit the body both inside and out. Its “extra virgin” variant is extracted without any use of chemicals nor temperatures that degrade its quality. It is packed with vitamins and antioxidants that help keep the skin healthy and protected from damage. A few drops of extra virgin olive oil on a cotton ball (or on your finger, but this can be quite messy) is enough for a natural eye makeup remover, and it works gently on the skin while making it a lot softer with consistent use.

• You can add witch hazel along with the extra virgin coconut oil for its anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, and antiviral properties. Mix 2 ounces each of both in a bottle and use it as your eye makeup remover. Shake the bottle prior to using as the liquids tend to separate quickly.

• Castor oil also makes for a good combination with extra virgin olive oil. A half cup of each in a jar makes for a good natural eye makeup remover. However, its ratio depends if you have dry, normal, or oily skin. For dry skin, add more extra virgin olive oil. For oily skin, add more castor oil. For normal skin, just mix equal amounts of both oils.

• Another way to use extra virgin olive oil is to combine at least a half cup of it in one bottle containing aloe vera water. Aloe vera is a plant that is well-known for its numerous healing and soothing skin benefits, and water derived from it can be very refreshing and hydrating. Always shake the bottle before using as the oil tends to separate from the water, like how it does with witch hazel.

2. Extra Virgin Coconut Oil

• Another oil with a wide range of uses, from cooking to topical application, that work wonders on the body. It works quite effectively as an eye makeup remover as well, and is a good substitute if you do not have stock of extra virgin olive oil at home. With antibacterial, antioxidant, and antifungal properties, extra virgin coconut oil is awesome for the skin. Simply use your fingers to carefully apply small amounts of coconut oil on your eyelashes and eyelids, or you can use a cotton pad or cotton swab. Wipe the oil away with another cotton pad, cotton ball, or toilet paper, and see your makeup come along with it. Just like with olive oil, always choose the extra virgin type for coconut oil.

3. Jojoba Oil

• The extract of the jojoba plant seeds are not really oils but are wax esters. Jojoba oil is considered to be the wax ester that is closest to sebum, or the skin oil of humans, making it safe for use with an almost non-existent risk of causing irritations. It is also rich in minerals, and has antioxidant and antibacterial properties as well. For eye makeup removal, the oil can be used undiluted with a cotton ball or swab. You can also mix water with jojoba oil, following a ratio of 2:1 respectively.

• Another way to make use of jojoba oil as an eye makeup remover is by mixing 2 ounces of jojoba oil with a vitamin E softgel. Puncture the capsule and drain its contents into a dark jar along with the jojoba oil. Why use a dark jar? Exposure to light has a tendency to damage the jojoba oil and make it rancid, and a bottle or jar with dark glass protects the oils from light.

• Combine a half cup of jojoba oil with one cup aloe vera gel. Dab a cotton ball on the mix and use it to remove eye makeup. Don’t worry, the combination is gentle and won’t sting. Always choose the gel that is organic (or better extract it from the leaves yourself) to avoid unwanted chemicals in the mix.

4. Milk

•  A common item in the refrigerator has some topical uses that work well on the skin, and it was even part of the beauty regimen of many important figures throughout history. For makeup on the eyes, rubbing with a cotton ball dabbed in milk followed by a lukewarm water rinse can easily remove it all.  Plain yogurt (choose those with no flavor) works the same way as well, and it provides an additional benefit of enhancing skin regeneration.

• Adding cucumber to milk enhances its makeup removing ability. Mash a peeled cucumber until it becomes a paste then add a half cup of milk before simmering it for up to ten minutes. Let it cool then apply it as your eye makeup remover.

Have you tried any of these natural eye makeup removers? Did they get the job done? Do you want to share a natural alternative that is not mentioned here? Let us know in the comments below.

The post Natural Alternatives to Eye Makeup Removers appeared first on Gazette Review.

Aside from taking the said medications, there are also supplements that can help relieve headaches. From herbs, to nutrients derived from food and in capsule forms, here are some of the best supplements for headaches.

Disclaimer: The supplements mentioned here are based on research, and is written only for informational purposes. These are not meant to be substitutes for professional advice from medical experts, hence you should always coordinate first with a doctor regarding these supplements before taking one. That said we’ve compiled the list below and included links to the best prices online for each of the supplements in case you want to get started relieving your headaches now:

1. Butterbur: Used for the treatment of headache and stomach ache, cough, fever, insomnia, and for appetite stimulation. How it exactly works in treating migraines is not yet specifically determined, but some theories state that the herb helps in relieving the pressure on blood vessels. The herb should not be consumed directly as it is toxic; and as for supplements, only those that are certified to be free from pyrrolizidine alkaloids (labelled as “PA free”) should be used as those that have PA can cause liver damage. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should not use butterbur, along with people who have an ongoing liver condition. Click here to check out butterbur on Amazon.com

2. CoQ10: Also known as coenzyme Q10, its primary function is to assist in the harvest of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) from food. ATP is a substance that helps provide energy to the cells and the body. Deficiencies in CoQ10 result in lesser ATP harvested, and this leads to lower energy levels in the body and triggering chronic pain and fatigue. Maintaining proper levels of CoQ10 helps in reducing the duration and frequency of migraines, as shown in a study published in February 2005 on Neurology. Seafood, organ meats, broccoli, cauliflower, and spinach are some of the food sources of CoQ10, but do not provide enough amounts of the nutrient, making the intake of supplements a must. There may be interactions between the supplement and certain medications for cancer, high blood pressure, and blood thinners, so coordinate first with a doctor before taking CoQ10. Here is the coq10 I personally use and you can get it on Amazon with the discount automatically applied by clicking here.

3. Feverfew: This yellow flower has been used extensively as a remedy to arthritis, fever, dizziness, vomiting, and many others, but perhaps the most common use is in the prevention of migraine. The intake of fresh leaves was the original way of utilizing feverfew for the treatment of headaches, and supplements available in health stores make it easier to reap the said benefit.  A study published in 1988 at the medical journal The Lancet showed promising results in the reduction of migraine and nausea frequency and severity without the risk of triggering any serious side effect, however it did not affect the attack’s duration.  There are feverfew supplements with ginger added to the ingredients, as it is an effective treatment for nausea. The supplement is not to be used by children and pregnant / breastfeeding women. Here is our recommended feverfew (also available on Amazon.com)

4. Magnesium: The body contains an abundance of magnesium as it is required in many physiological functions. Some studies reveal that people who suffer from migraines have low magnesium levels, especially during an attack. Increasing the body’s levels of magnesium helps in minimizing migraine frequency, including those that are triggered during menstrual periods. Aside from taking supplements, magnesium can be obtained from food sources such as nuts, seeds, dark green vegetables, beans, avocado, and yogurt. The said food sources should be eaten regularly while taking supplements, as the milligrams provided by supplements may not be enough to benefit from its migraine-fighting property. Around 400 to 600 milligrams is the recommended daily dosage of magnesium. Those with atrial fibrillation, kidney problems, myasenthia gravis, and abnormal heart rate should talk to a doctor first before taking magnesium. After searching online for the best value, here is a link with the discounts applied for doctors best high absorption magnesium on Amazon.

5. Riboflavin (Vitamin B2): You’ll know when you have enough of this vitamin in your body when your urine is bright yellow in color. Riboflavin is crucial in producing much-needed energy through food, and it also destroys free radicals as it is an antioxidant. A study published in February 1998 on Neurology had migraine patients take 400mg of the vitamin in a span of three months. After the given period, almost 59% of the patients (compared to the 15% who were given placebo) reported fewer migraine attacks with reduced duration. Spinach, beet greens, asparagus, mushrooms, eggs, broccoli, milk, and sea vegetables are among the best dietary sources of the vitamin, and supplements are available for higher dosages. Children, and pregnant and breastfeeding women are restricted to lower recommended dietary intakes.  Here is the best value online for a riboflavin supplement.

Do you have other supplements that work? Have you tried the ones mentioned above? Let us know in the comments.

The post Top Supplements for Headaches – Best in 2018 appeared first on Gazette Review.

Therapies provide treatment for anxiety disorders, along with medications. There are also supplements derived from herbs, vitamins, and minerals that can help with anxiety especially during times when a state of calm is much needed.

Take note that these supplements are written for informational purposes only and should not be substituted for actual advice from professionals. Always coordinate with experts in the field regarding these supplements to avoid possible complications due to use:

Catuaba: Native in Brazil where it is used due to its aphrodisiac potency and for uplifting moods and calming the anxious. Among its ingredients is catuabine, a group of alkaloids that stimulate the nervous system. Some say that catuaba supplements are more expensive compared to purchasing shredded bark, which can be steeped into tea or made into tincture. Catuaba works its magic quite fast, effectively calming in less than an hour after use. It is said that taking catuaba prior to sleep may increase the chance of having dreams that are erotic in nature, so be warned. Amazon has a variety of high quality catuaba supplements. Click this link to get our recommended catuaba supplement with an over 30% discount automatically applied.

Inositol / Vitamin B8: A study published in June 2001 at the Journal of Clinical Psychopharmacology revealedthat inositol works better than fluvoxamine, a medication used for anxiety and depression, and it does not even have side effects unlike the drug. It works by regulating the levels of serotonin so anxiety and stress are minimized. Around 12 to 18 grams on a daily basis is the recommended dosage for the vitamin to take effect on anxiety and other mood disorders. Inositol can also be found on food sources like citrus fruits, legumes, grains, and beans, but these are just minute amounts. We recommened getting inositol in the form of powder rather than capsules as it’s a way better value. For example you can get over 370 servings for under $20 at amazon by clicking this link & applying the coupon.

Kanna: South African tribes make use of kanna for recreational purposes and religious ceremonies. It is believed that mesembrine, one of the alkaloids in kanna, boosts mood levels while reducing stress and anxiety. Just like inositol, kanna works on serotonin levels to achieve this effect. It also grants a spike in energy, and can be quite useful for those who are trying to quit coffee and is suffering from lethargy. Some people smoke the herb as an alternative to taking a supplement, drinking tea derived from it, or even chewing it. How fast it takes effect is not the same for every person, and this is apparently influenced by how the herb is taken.

Kava: The herb is well known for its ability to quickly remedy acute anxiety. It contains kavalactones, a chemical that is found to function similarly to anti-anxiety drugs, but it does not dull a person’s reaction time. In the Pacific Islands it is served as a drink, and in the United States there are many bars that make use of the herb in making concoctions. For those who do not prefer sipping it down, there are supplements of the herb available in health stores. There are reports about the risk of liver damage upon long term use of the herb, but so far there is no conclusive evidence, and it was pointed out that the said risk could be due to the use of the entire kava plant instead of just the root itself. Nevertheless, it is still best to talk to an expert first before taking kava.

L-theanine: Abundant in green tea, this amino acid facilitates the release of GABA, or the neurotransmitterthat is responsible for promoting calmness and fighting off anxiety. There are supplements that contain a synthesized form of GABA, but the body does not absorb it effectively, making L-theanine supplements the ideal choice in boosting the levels of the neurotransmitter. Sipping a warm cup of green tea is quite effective in bringing about an overall sensation of calm thanks to L-theanine. Additionally one of the most common “nootropic” stacks involves taking l-theanine with caffeine, it helps to remove the edge from the caffeine while still providing all the benefits of the caffeine supplementation.  Best of all L-theanine is a great value, click here to get 120 capsules of double strength L-Theanine from amazon with all discount codes applied.

Magnesium: The body’s levels of magnesium are reduced whenever extreme stress strikes, and a deficiency of this mineral can exacerbate anxiety, not to mention the risk of developing other serious health conditions. Regular intake of magnesium can help alleviate anxiety, and it can benefit those with other mental illnesses, as shown in a study published at Medical Hypotheses in March 2006. Consuming a diet rich in magnesium (soybeans, bananas, seafood, seeds, nuts, yogurt, and avocado) is good for providing a small amount of the mineral, and taking supplements to make up most of the daily required intake. Keep in mind not all magnesium supplements are created equal so make sure you have one that will actually be absorbed and utilized by your body. Click here for our recommended Magnesium supplement.

Rhodiola Rosea: A robust herb that can grow without problems in altitudes where temperatures dip. It enhances physical and mental faculties, reduces anxiety, fatigue, and stress, and bolsters overall mood levels. The herb works by stimulating the hormones responsible for handling mood and energy, and ensuring that their levels are all adequate without any imbalance. The supplement is best taken during the day, as it can make one sleepless or even induce weird dreams, and on an empty stomach to facilitate absorption. Here is the best value we’ve found for Rhodiola Rosea online.

Have you tried any of these supplements? Do you have a supplement to share? Let us know in the comments.

The post Best Supplements for Anxiety – 2018 List appeared first on Gazette Review.

Take a look at the top ten songs of 2015, and keep your earphones ready in case you want to play a musical throwback of the yesteryear:

1. Uptown Funk – Mark Ronson ft. Bruno Mars 

• “Uptown Funk” has over a billion views on YouTube, more than six million copies sold in the United States and two million in the United Kingdom, and was reported to have earned six figures in Spotify alone. The eighties funk laden song quickly rose up the charts, eventually becoming part of the list of singles to spend more than ten weeks at the number one spot of Billboard Hot 100, and peaking in other major component charts. Now it sits at the peak of Billboard Hot 100 Songs of 2015, and with a 9X Platinum certification from the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA), and triple Platinum from the British Phonographic Industry (BPI). “Funk” won the Best Male Video award in the MTV Video Music Awards (with four other nominations), the Best Pop Award in South Korea’s MelOn Music Awards, and currently has two nominations for the upcoming Grammy Awards.

2. See You Again – Wiz Khalifa ft. Charlie Puth

• The emotional tribute in memory of Paul Walker, and the soundtrack of Furious 7dethroned “Uptown Funk” in the top spot of the Billboard Hot 100 and stayed for up to 12 weeks (nonconsecutive). The song sold more than three million copies in America, 1 million in the UK, has been certified quadruple Platinum by the RIAA and Platinum by the BPI, and amassed around 1.31 billion YouTube views, making it the third most viewed YouTube video ever. It won three Teen Choice Awards, the International Song of the Year from France’s NRJ Music Awards, had two nominations each in the MTV Video Music Awards and American Music Awards, and has nominations for the upcoming Grammy, Golden Globe, and Critics Choice Awards.

3. Trap Queen – Fetty Wap

• Originally recorded last March 2014 and uploaded in SoundCloud (where it gathered more than a million plays), a revised format was eventually released for the radio seven months later. Fetty Wap’s song dedicated to a former “queen” of his proved to be successful, entering the Billboard Hot 100 at number 86 during the first week of February. Three months later it flew up to number two, right below “See You Again”, and stayed there for three straight weeks. Currently it has 350 million views on YouTube, certified Platinum by the RIAA and BPI, and won an MC100 award from Music Choice, Best Track of the Year award from the Black Entertainment Television (BET) Hip Hop Awards, and the Artist to Watch award from MTV Video Music. “Trap Queen” has been nominated for the Best Rap Performance and Best Rap Song for the upcoming Grammy Awards.

 4. Cheerleader – OMI

• Omar Samuel Pasley, or OMI, initially released the original “Cheerleader” in 2012. Two years later,the remix done by music producer Felix Jaehn was released and became a global hit that spread through streaming media. It entered the Billboard Hot 100 on May 2015, while it was sitting in the number one spot on the charts of many other countries. The song took over the top spot in July 2015, replacing “See You Again”, and reigned for six weeks (nonconsecutive). It has 300 million YouTube views, more than 450 million Spotify plays, certified triple Platinum by the RIAA, double Platinum by the BPI, and even won the International Hit of the Year award in the Danish Music Awards.

5. Hello – Adele

• Even though it was released two months before the year ended, “Hello” managed to take the world of music by storm. Its 30-second teaser alone was enough to drive Adele fans on a frenzy in Twitter. For the first week of the song’s release, it had 333,000 sales in the United Kingdom, a majority of which were downloads. The emotionally charged ballad debuted at the Billboard Hot 100 right at the number one spot during November 2 and is still on the same spot today, topped five other Billboard charts and many other charts on a global scale, and sold 1.11 million downloads in just one week. It also broke the record in the video hosting site Vevo for having the most number of views (27.7 million) in a span of 24 hours during its release on the site. Currently, the song has more than 900 million YouTube views, has 3.7 million worth of downloads, and is a certified quadruple Platinum by the RIAA and Platinum by the BPI.

6. Love Me Like You Do – Ellie Goulding

• The soundtrack of the erotic drama Fifty Shades of Grey was highly praised for Goulding’s vocals and lyrical content that matches the book and film’s protagonist’s longing for affection that can be painful. It sold over a million copies in the United Kingdom, entered the Billboard Hot 100 at the number 45 spot, climbing up the chart until it rested on number three on its seventh week. It also topped the Adult Pop Songs and Mainstream Top 40 charts of Billboard, and charts in other countries. Its music video received views of more than 890 million on YouTube, certified double Platinum by the RIAA, platinum by the BPI, and won the Best Tormentone award in the MTV Italian Music Awards and the Best International Song from the Spanish radio station Los 40 Principales. It received nominations from the Teen Choice Awards, MTV Video Music Awards, and BBC Music Awards, and has nominations for the upcoming Grammy, Golden Globe, Critics’ Choice, and Peoples’ Choice Awards.

7. Lean On – DJ Snake and Major Lazer ft. MØ

• The electronic dance song was initially ranked 100 at the Billboard Hot 100 last April, eventually climbing up to number four, and lingered in the top 10 for ten weeks straight. On the United Kingdom, it entered the charts at number 38 then peaked at number two, before staying in the top 10 for 12 weeks (nonconsecutive). It was crowned as Spotify’s most streamed song with a worldwide play of 526 million, certified by the RIAA as double Platinum, Platinum by the BPI, and sold 2 million in the US and 600,000 in the UK. The music video, with most of the scenes shot in India, has 992 million YouTube views and is ranked 17^th on the site’s most viewed videos list.

8. The Hills – The Weeknd

• With first week domestic streams of 5.2 million, sales of more than 100,000 copies, and the premiere of its eerie music video during the day of release, “The Hills” made its way into the number 20 spot of the Billboard Hot 100, then climbed up to number one and stayed there for six weeks before being booted by “Hello”. The song stayed in the top 10 for 21 straight weeks before eventually dropping to number 11, with sales of 2.4 million, a 6x RIAA Platinum certification, Platinum BPI certification, and 500 million YouTube views. Famed rappers Nicki Minaj, Lil Wayne, and Eminem had their own remixes of the song.

9. Hotline Bling – Drake

• Despite the criticism for its supposedly sexist lyrics, “Hotline Bling” was still successful with a debut at the number 66 spot of the Billboard Hot 100, eventually peaking to number two for five weeks (nonconsecutive). In the United States, “Hotline Bling” sold over a million copies with a quadruple RIAA certification, while in the United Kingdom it charted at number three while sitting at the top of the R&B Chart. It received a Gold certification from the BPI with 400,000 copies sold. The music video has 316 million YouTube views

10. What Do You Mean? – Justin Bieber

• We all remember the voice of Justin back during his “Baby” days, and how Beliebers defended their idol against haters (the tug of war between likes and dislikes can be seen on his “Baby” YouTube video). Then came the teasers, followed by Biebs with a way different kind of music and different kind of vocals. “What Do You Mean?” was well-received by critics and fans alike, entering the number one spot at Billboard Canadian Hot 100 with record-breaking 3.1 million streams and 48,000 copies sold in the first week. In the US, the song had 21 million streams during the first week, and entered the Hot 100 at the top spot, while performing admirably in other charts as well. It had 2 million copies sold, a 2x RIAA Platinum certification, and is currently a number five on the Hot 100. It also entered the top of United Kingdom’s charts, again with record-breaking streams on its first week, with 988,000 sold copies, and a Platinum BPI certification.  Its music video, featuring actor John Leguizamo and model Xenia Deli, currently has 563 million YouTube views.

The post The Top 10 Songs of 2015 – What Made The List appeared first on Gazette Review.

Coordinate with a medical expert to see which of these alternatives work best for you:

• Neti Pots – The use of these pots may sound unpleasant, but many people swear by its efficacy in relieving allergy problems. Neti pots flush out debris and mucus that have pent up in the nose, an act also known as nasal irrigation. The practice originated in the ancient Indian healing system Ayurveda and is also part of the Yogic body purification practice Shatkarma. Neti pots are the main containers used for nasal irrigation. It is done by sticking the spout in one nostril, inhaling the water or solution stored in the pot, and then letting it flow out of the other nostril. Studies attest to the efficacy of neti pots, however long term use is not recommended as it can weaken the nasal shield against foreign substances. Make sure that the water you use in the pot is sterile, as you do not want to exacerbate your allergy by using tap water. You can also use essential oils (more on that below) in your neti pot. Here is the one I use, it’s a great option from Amazon.com for less than $13.  Can’t really go wrong at this price and it’s great quality.

• Essential Oils – Many oils derived from various herbal sources are teeming with health benefits, and they also work wonders in treating allergies and other nasal problems. Here are a few that you can use:

• Garlic – Sulfoxides, thiosulfinates, and dithiins are three compounds that give garlic its unique smell and its legendary health benefits, ranging from cardiovascular health protection to cancer prevention. It has anti-inflammatory properties that thin out nasal clogs and help with allergy relief. Garlic can be eaten raw or cooked, although the former is better as subjecting it to extreme temperatures actually makes its properties weaker. Alternatively, toss in the cloves in a pot of boiling water and inhale the fumes so its effects go straight into the nose. If you are lazy like myself you can take advantage of odorless garlic pills which will have the same effect as the above (and potentially even better as there is no heat to break it down).  I use these from Amazon as they are highly rated and they only cost around 4 cents a day to add it to your regimen.  At this price it doesn’t make sense to not use them with all the benefits they provide.

• Stinging Nettle – Available in powder, dried leaf, and dried root forms, stinging nettle contains a lot of nutrients with anti-inflammatory properties. It has been used to treat allergies and relieving symptoms associated with it like irritated eyes and sneezing. Its other effects include reducing levels of blood pressure, encouraging urine which helps eliminate salt in the body, and minimizing pain. Tincture made with stinging nettle is one good way to preserve the herb. This is done by putting chopped leaves into a jar then fill it with 100 proof vodka (or any other alcohol). Store it in a cool, dark place for up to six weeks then strain it in a different container afterwards. Alternatively, boil the leaves with your favorite cup of tea and make it your daily morning drink especially during allergy seasons. Click here to view our recommended stinging nettle supplement for the value.

• Quercetin – A flavonoid that give color to certain fruits and vegetables, and also act as antioxidants that destroy pent up toxins in the body. Quercetin prevents the release of histamines, or chemicals that can trigger allergies. It can also help in cancer prevention, maintaining cardiovascular health, and boosting the endurance of physically active people. The best fruit sources of quercetin include apples, citrus fruits, blackberries, blueberries, grapes, and dark cherries. For vegetables you can choose among buckwheat, onion, and leafy green vegetables. To get more quercetin, you can also take supplements in capsule or pill form. Some people experience minor side effects with the flavonoid like stomachache and nausea. For a little more than 10 cents a day you can add Quercetin to your allergy prevention regiment.  Here is our recommended Quercetin with Bromelain supplement. The Bromelain helps with the uptake of the Quercetin while also providing it’s own little boost to your immune system.

• Alfalfa – Rich in vitamins and minerals, amino acids, fiber, and chlorophyll. Alfala lowers bad cholesterol, detoxifies the body, aids in proper digestion, and relieves joint and muscle pains. For allergies, alfalfa has antihistamine properties that works by calming the immune system. The herb also helps with the regeneration of mucus members that have been irritated. Unfortunately, alfalfa does not work for everyone, as some people may suffer from allergic reactions with use. Small increments should be used first to test if you will not have any reactions with the herb. Supplements and dried leaves of alfalfa are also available on Amazon.com, here is our recommendation.

• Apple Cider Vinegar – Apple cider vinegar is touted for its many health benefits, from relieving the simple hiccups to preventing cancer and heart problems. Antibiotic and antihistamine properties in apple cider vinegar help with allergies, and since it actively boosts metabolism you can lose some weight when taking it. The best variant of apple cider vinegar is the one that is unrefined, unfiltered, and unpasteurized. Double check if there is a cobweb-like substance known as “The Mother”; it is believed that this substance is the source of the vinegar’s incredible medicinal benefits. You can easily drink a “shot” of apple cider vinegar, or mixed with a teaspoon of water and taken three times a day. Try to juggle the mixture until you can handle the taste. If you experience problems with your stomach after drinking apple cider vinegar, take a half teaspoon of baking soda to calm it. Here is the most popular apple cider vinegar on Amazon.com.

• Vitamins and Minerals – There is no doubt that a regular intake of vitamins and minerals promotes better health, and being healthy enhances your protection against allergies. Here are some that you should take (all of which can be purchased on Amazon.com as well):

Have you tried any of the ones mentioned above? If so how was it? Let us know in the comments.

The post Natural Supplements For Allergies – What Works Best appeared first on Gazette Review.

Enbrel is an injection that is used to decrease TNFα and treat symptoms caused by the previously mentioned irregularity in the protein. However, use of this injection is associated with certain side effects, with some people reported to have developed a rare and fatal type of lymphoma. Blood cells are also lowered upon use of Enbrel, and this can be life-threatening as well since these cells help the body fight off infections.

There are some natural sources that can help reduce TNFα and relieve inflammation and other conditions. That said you should always speak with someone in the medical field so you can have an expert opinion regarding these suggestions as nothing on this list will have the same effect as Enbrel. I repeat no naturally supplement is going to have the same effect as a prescription such as Enbrel. Due to this if you are in need of the medication please consult with a healthcare professional rather than trying to self medicate without guidance:

• Ashwagandha: The Indian medicinal system Ayurveda lists ashwagandha (or Indian ginseng) as among its important herbs. Its benefits include remedying physical weakness and impotence, enhancing mental performance, and minimizing fatigue and stress. The herb contains anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antistress, and antitumor properties, and it exerts positive effects on the cardiopulmonary, central nervous, and endocrinal systems. Being an adaptogen, ahshwagandha shields the body from the toils wrought by stresses from various sources. It also suppresses intercellular TNFα, preventing the negative effects that are caused by it. The herb can be purchased in extract, tablet and powder forms, with the latter usually added to beverages and consumed prior to sleeping.

• Cat’s Claw: A vine that is prominent in Peru for remedying problems in digestion, arthritis, and many other health problems thanks to its antioxidant content. As published in the July 2000 study at Free Radical Biology & Medicine, cat’s claw showed potent TNFα-inhibiting properties through immunomodulation, and this is attributed to be the herb’s primary mechanism for fighting off inflammation. Aside from that, cat’s claw helps with the repair of damaged DNA, cleanses the intestinal system, and stimulates the immune system for better defense against diseases. Supplements in capsule form are available in many health stores, while its dried bark can be steeped into tea for a different method of intake.

• Cherries: Anti-inflammatory plant compounds called phenolics are available in both tart and sweet cherries. Anthocyanins, a flavonoid that gives many fruits their color, is the main kind of phenolic found in cherries. In fact, the darker the color of the cherry, the more anthocyanin it has. The said flavonoid blocks enzymes that actively participate in the production of prostaglandins, or compounds that trigger inflammation. This action is similar to how anti-inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen and naproxen work. Tart cherries have greater amounts of anthocyanins, phenolics, and other nutrients. Regular intake has been associated with a reduction in TNFα, and lower risks of type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular diseases. Researchers during the 2012 American College of Sports Medicine conference presented a study with promising findings regarding tart cherry. For three weeks, they had 20 female participants with osteoarthritis drink tart cherry juice on a daily basis. After the said period, their inflammation was decreased in a rather significant amount. Women with the higher levels of inflammation prior to the start of the study experienced greater impact on the juice compared to the other participants. The potent kind of tart cherries are the ones that are canned, juiced, or dried, and these are usually found in a farmer’s market. Another good thing with tart cherries is that they have fewer calories and sugar than sweet cherries.

• Coenzyme Q10: Also known as CoQ10. It is an antioxidant that is created in the body and is required for the proper function and maintenance of cells. It also helps in the digestion of food and other functions in the body, and remedies body ache, fatigue, high cholesterol levels, and eye-related problems. An article published in 2007 at The Fifth Conference of the International CoQ10 Association publication demonstrated CoQ10’s anti-inflammatory efficacy through the reduction of TNFα response. Do take note that medications that lower levels of blood sugar and cholesterol adversely affect the amount of CoQ10 in the body. Side effects associated with the intake of more than 100mg of CoQ10 include mild insomnia, nausea, and headache. Even though the body creates CoQ10, external sources are needed to reinforce its amounts or to address deficiencies due to aging or other disorders. Aside from taking supplements, organ meats are among the best food sources of CoQ10. Broccoli, cauliflower, spinach, and legumes are non-animal alternatives for vegetarians.

• Devil’s Claw – The southern African plant was used primarily for the treatment of blood and stomach disorders, and as a painkiller during pregnancy. It has earned global renown for showing promising effects against inflammation and the pains that come with it thanks to its anti-inflammatory content called harpagoside. The hooked herb is available in health stores in the form of dried roots that can be brewed into tea. Alternatively, capsules and tablets containing devil’s claw are sold as supplements.

• Magnesium: Magnesium Research had a published study in September 2004 wherein low levels of magnesium are found to be related with higher levels of TNFα. The mineral is abundant in the body, as it is required in many processes that help maintain good health and proper production of energy. Magnesium deficiency not only leads to an elevated TNFα, it also causes a slew of other health problems like fatigue, numbness, coronary spasms, and even seizures. Conversely, maintaining an adequate level of magnesium in the body lowers stroke risk and type 2 diabetes, strengthens bone structure to protect against osteoporosis, and keeps TNFα levels in check. Almonds, cashews, peanuts, and spinach are the best sources of magnesium, followed by soy products, bananas, potatoes, avocadoes, raisins, and apples.

• Olive Oil: Dishes in the Mediterranean region make extensive use of olive oil, and it is said that it is because of this that the population in those areas are healthier. There are different kinds of olive oil, but the “extra virgin” variant is touted to be the best due to its 100% natural extraction method. This kind of olive oil has a certain flavor and aroma that must meet the expectations of the International Olive Oil Council before it can be certified as a true extra virgin olive oil. This certification is visible on the oil’s packaging, making it more expensive than the other kinds of olive oil. Teeming with vitamins and healthy fats, extra virgin olive oil also contains antioxidants that actively destroy the triggers of inflammation, making it a more reliable remedy than over the counter medicines with risky side effects. Extra virgin olive oil can be consumed directly with a teaspoon every day, spritzed on vegetables or meals, and used on cooking but only with low heat. Its benefits are reduced when subjected to hotter cooking temperatures.

• Omega-3: Omega-3 is part of the most crucial nutrients the body needs in order to stay in top shape. Many published studies have attested to the oil’s incredible health benefits, from strengthening the cardiovascular system, maintaining mental acuity, to preventing cancer. On the other hand, a deficiency in omega-3 fatty acids lead to an increase in the growth of cancer cells and in the occurrence of other serious medical conditions. Its potent anti-inflammatory properties stem from the formation of lipid mediators, and the inhibition of eicosanoid production. These two actions diminish the production of TNFα. Good sources of omega-3 include canola oil, flaxseed, and soy products, milk, yogurt, almonds, chia and pumpkin seeds, flaxseed, walnuts, eggs, and seafood such as carp, clams, cod, halibut, herring, mussels, and salmon.

• Turmeric: A spice with a variety of uses that date back to the ancient times. Turmeric contains curcumin, the component that gives the spice its unique golden color and its powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Not only does it impede the effects of TNFα, curcumin also suppresses its production, and relieves pain that commonly occurs with conditions that are linked to TNFα. Many dishes make use of turmeric, with curry being the most popular. The dried root form of the spice can either be steeped into tea or blended into a smoothie. Black pepper is known to enhance turmeric’s bioavailability, leading to better health effects even with just small doses.

Have you used Enbrel before? Have you tried any of the alternatives mentioned above? Do you have any other kind of alternative that you would like to share? Do tell us in the comments below.

The post Natural Alternatives to Enbrel appeared first on Gazette Review.