Do you ever wonder which fruits and vegetables are most contaminated with pesticides? Or are you one of those shoppers that just hopes for the best when they buy produce? If you have concerns, fret not because the Environmental Working Group (EWG) publishes an annual Shopper’s Guide every year. In this guide, the EWG highlights the Dirty Dozen and Clean 15, two lists that help consumers reduce exposure to potentially harmful chemicals while helping them consume lots of produce.

The EWG suggests that even after you wash and peel certain fruits and vegetables, they can still contain pesticide residue. Nearly 75% of non-organic fresh produce sold in the United States contains pesticide residue. That underscores how widespread exposure has become, even for people who habitually and thoroughly wash fruits and vegetables. 

This information should not scare you away; rather, it should help you make smarter, healthier produce choices. If you are looking for the most up-to-date information from the EWG, it recently published both the 2026 Dirty Dozen and 2026 Clean 15 lists. 

The Key Findings

In the 2026 Dirty Dozen and Clean 15 lists, researchers note several insights of importance. Some of the key findings are detailed below:

• 96% of the Dirty Dozen samples contained pesticide residues
• Nearly 60% of Clean 15 produce had no detectable pesticides
• More than 54,000 produce samples were analyzed across 47 fruits and vegetables
• On average, some samples contained four or more pesticides 
• PFAS (or forever chemicals) were found in a large number of samples
• Nearly 75% of conventional produce contained pesticide residues, even after washing practices
• Researchers found 264 different pesticides overall

2026 Dirty Dozen List

Researchers note that there were no major items removed or added to the 2026 listThe 2026  Dirty Dozen list includes both fruits and vegetables with the highest pesticide contamination. Below, you will find the 12 most pesticide-laden produce items:

• Spinach
• Kale, collards, and mustard greens
• Strawberries
• Grapes
• Nectarines
• Peaches
• Cherries
• Apples
• Blackberries
• Pears
• Potatoes
• Blueberries

From samples on the Dirty Dozen list, researchers found 203 total pesticides, and pesticides were found on 96% of all samples on the list. PFAS were found on 63% of all Dirty Dozen foods. Potato samples had an average of two pesticides, while all other 11 produce items had four or more pesticides. All of the foods on this list tend to have thin skins that easily absorb pesticides. When available, buy organic versions of these items. 

2026 Clean 15 List

The Clean 15 list remained unchanged from 2025 to 2026, but the rankings may have shifted slightly. What is clear is that this list highlights the produce items with the lowest pesticide levels. Nearly 60% of the produce on the 2026 Clean 15 list had no detectable pesticides, and only 16% of the produce had residues of multiple pesticides. 

• Pineapple
• Sweet corn (frozen or fresh)
• Avocados
• Papaya
• Onions
• Sweet peas (frozen)
• Asparagus
• Cabbage
• Cauliflower
• Watermelon
• Mangos
• Bananas
• Carrots
• Mushrooms
• Kiwi

Many of the foods on this list have thick skins or natural resistances to pests. That ultimately reduces pesticide exposure, and they are generally safe to buy conventionally if you are on a budget and cannot afford organic varieties.

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The world is filled with never-ending distractions. From the supercomputer in your pocket to pings from the group chat and worries about world events, any little thing can break your concentration. A distraction-filled environment is merely one element that stands in the way of your ability to concentrate, but your feelings also influence your focusing abilities. 

In order to maintain focus, you have to take care of your mental space and physical body. If you want to power through your work day with ease, make an effort to institute healthy habits that help improve productivity. For example, listening to bodily cues can help you from becoming distracted. If you are hungry, stressed, anxious, or tired from the night before, you will have a difficult time focusing. Managing these causes of your inability to focus can often help you resolve the issue. If you need more assistance focusing, the following tips should be of great help. 

Meditate

Meditation is a mindfulness practice that can take years to master, but practice makes perfect. Meditation demands concentration, and scientific experiments agree that it may help improve cognition. One study found that people who meditated regularly were less likely to engage in “mind-wandering,” and they were generally happier. Another study found that students who meditated for 20 minutes per day performed better on cognitive tests.

Establish A To-Do List

To-do lists are not just for parents with five children; rather, everyone can benefit from them. They help prioritize what tasks you need to complete first, while also serving as a record of the loose ends. Incomplete work can eat away at your concentration, so having to complete your tasks can help you stay focused. Researchers note that this stems from the Zeigarnik Effect, which was explored in a 2011 study. Participants who could plan their work and complete tasks one by one were more likely to stay focused, compared to those who went from task to task without completing them. 

Schedule Short Breaks

Trying to work through the entire day without a break is a fool’s errand. Everyone experiences dips in focus or succumbs to distractions because the brain is always alert. Taking short breaks throughout your day can help you return to your tasks with more focus and efficiency. Therapists suggest taking time-limited springs, which involve focusing on a task for 25 minutes and breaking for five minutes. You can also try to focus for 90 minutes and take a break for 10 minutes. Try to see what benefits your work most!

Put A Lock On Social Media

For many people, the idea of taking a break from work involves checking social media. The thing about social media is that it ropes you in and keeps you coming back after break time has concluded. If you struggle with putting your phone down, consider putting an app that blocks social media. Several apps work for your phone, tablet, or computer. Some of these apps can also put blocks on other distracting programs like games, YouTube, Netflix, text messages, and more. 

Get Sufficient Sleep

Surveys indicate that most American adults do not get enough sleep every night. A few nights of minimal sleep is completely normal, but insufficient sleep most nights of the week can negatively impact your short- and long-term memory. Waking up tired can affect your ability to concentrate as well. Ideally, adults between the ages of 18 and 60 should sleep seven or more hours per night. To help encourage healthier sleep, try to avoid caffeinated beverages after lunch, switch off electronic devices one hour before bedtime, keep the bedroom cool and quiet, and take time to wind down. 

Eat Foods That Boost Cognitive Function

What you put in your body can influence your ability to focus, as various nutrients can improve brain and body functions. For example, many people eat sugary treats in hopes of boosting focus, but they end up crashing shortly after. Simple carbs and refined sugars lead to a quick burst of energy, followed by serious fatigue. Although caffeine from a cup of coffee has been shown to help mental function and concentration, too much coffee can lead to anxious or jittery feelings, which get in the way of your focusing abilities. To improve your focus, include more fruits and vegetables at meals and snacks, and choose nuts, seeds, whole grains, and lean protein sources for major meals. 

Create A Distraction-Free Environment

Your work zone is unique to you. Some people require a neatly organized space, while others prefer clutter and background music. Some people can only get in the right headspace if their desks have photos of loved ones or personal mementos. There is no right way to set up a space for a get-things-done environment. Find what works best for your productivity and create that space, even if it means investing time and energy into it. Consider sights, sounds, and temperature of your environment and then build what’s suitable for you.

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Without the lungs, you cannot survive. They are vital organs responsible for the delivery of oxygen throughout the body and the removal of carbon dioxide. With increasing levels of pollution and toxins in the environment, it is easy for the lungs to become overwhelmed and unable to function optimally. 

The good news is that there are many natural remedies, such as our Lungs & Respiratory formula, that help cleanse and nourish the lungs. If you do not cleanse the lungs, irritants, pollutants, and other toxins can build up in them, causing inflammation, respiratory issues, and potential health conditions like asthma. Lung cleansing helps improve overall respiratory health, making it easier to breathe and reducing the risk of respiratory infections. 

How Can Herbs Assist?

For centuries, people have used herbs or herbal remedies to treat various health conditions, including respiratory problems. Many herbs exhibit antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory properties that work to cleanse the lungs. Upon consumption, the herbs in this article may help eliminate toxins and mucus from the lungs, which ultimately reduces inflammation and promotes better respiratory health. Continue reading to learn which herbs are helpful for eliminating mucus from the lungs. 

Hyssop

Exhibiting strong expectorant properties, hyssop can help clear out entrenched phlegm that gets stuck in the lungs. Hyssop is an antispasmodic herb, meaning it helps relieve spasms in the respiratory system and soothes coughs. Studies have found hyssop syrup to be effective for asthmatic patients with productive cough and higher body mass index (BMI). Other studies found it to be effective for cough relief. 

Licorice Root

Licorice root has been used in various traditional medicinal applications. It acts as a soothing agent, demulcent, coating agent, and an expectorant, meaning it works to loosen mucus and make it easier to expel from the lungs. It is also a naturally sweet herb, containing a compound that is nearly 50 times sweeter than sugar. 

Elecampane Root

Regarded for its ability to promote better respiratory health, elecampane tea exhibits several promising characteristics for optimal lung health. For example, elecampane root has expectorant, sedative, anti-fungal, relaxing, antitussive (cough suppressant), warming, and antimicrobial properties. Various studies confirm that elecampane can help soothe bronchial tube linings, in addition to serving as an expectorant to facilitate lung cleansing. In the 1800s, cough drops and lozenges were made from elecampane root. 

Peppermint

Peppermint is another herb that offers anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. Containing menthol, peppermint can help relax the muscles in the respiratory tract, which makes it easier to breathe more easily. If you have a sore throat or cough, peppermint can also benefit you in this regard. Consume peppermint in the form of tea or add some peppermint essential oil to a diffuser and inhale the steam for a quick lung cleanse. 

Elderflowers

Elderflower is an astringent that is somewhat drying, but it manages to moisten the internal mucus membranes. It exhibits antiviral properties that benefit head colds or infections in the upper respiratory tract. Elderflower is a key herb in many herb blends that benefit lung health and immune function. In addition to the flower, elderberries offer lots of vitamins A & C, antiviral properties, and iron that is easy for the body to absorb. 

Oregano

Popular in various culinary applications, oregano has potent medicinal properties. Researchers note that carvacrol, a compound in oregano, exhibits antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. Oregano may help clear mucus from the lungs and reduce inflammation, making it effective for lung cleansing. 

Marshmallow Root

Marshmallow root is a prominent ingredient in our Lungs and Respiratory formula, and for good reason. It is a demulcent herb that may help relieve swelling and irritation of mucus membranes, in addition to soothing the respiratory tract. Research shows that it acts like a protective film on inflamed mucosa, making it effective for soothing a dry cough.

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The use of lavender to promote relaxation, reduce stress, and promote healthy sleep is far from a new discovery. Since ancient times, people used lavender in baths and herbal medicines to help calm the mind and body. Can lavender really make a difference for your sleep, though? And what does a homemade lavender spray actually do for your nightly rest?

The Science Behind Lavender’s Benefits

Research indicates that lavender may help with sleep because it has a calming effect on the mind and body. These calming effects are not simply folklore; rather, lavender’s active compounds, including linalool and linalyl acetate, help the body feel more at ease. Through various studies, researchers have observed: 

• Lavender may help you unwind before bed, fall asleep more quickly, and sleep more soundly. A 2019 study revealed that lavender may improve melatonin levels in the body, which may improve overall sleep quality. 
• A 2019 meta-analysis found that lavender may reduce stress and help calm the nervous system. 
• The scent of lavender can help lower blood pressure and heart rate. One trial from 2020 found that inhaling the aroma of lavender essential oil for 30 minutes helped reduce feelings of stress, anxiety, and depression. 

What Is A Pillow Spray?

There are various recipes, but a pillow spray is basically a simple mixture that you spray on or under your pillow, or on your bed sheets, before you go to sleep. Ideally, it contains essential oils that help promote relaxation and better sleep. Lavender has a subtle, soothing scent that does not overwhelm you as you prepare for bedtime. You can spray generously, but keep in mind that too much may be intense. 

Lavender And Sleep

Lavender can help a lot of people, but it may not work for everyone. If you have difficulty falling asleep or struggle to sleep through the night and lavender does not seem to make a difference, make sure that you have good sleeping habits. The homemade lavender pillow spray in this article will work better if you use it in conjunction with the following habits: 

• Avoid alcohol, caffeine, and heavy meals too close to bedtime. 
• Take a break from screens at least an hour before bedtime. 
• Go to bed and wake up at about the same time every day, even on the weekends. 
• Keep your bedroom cool, dark, and quiet, although you can use a sound machine if that helps you relax.
• Maintain a relaxing bedtime routine that signals the body to go to sleep. 

Ultimately, lavender is a simple, safe, and natural way to aid stress reduction and promote better sleep. You can experiment with the lavender pillow spray, in addition to enjoying a lavender bath or lavender tea before bed whenever you feel stressed. Should the problem prove to be more serious, you may have to establish other stress management techniques, or figure out the root of your sleep troubles. We only hope this pillow spray helps you sleep soundly through the night. 

Homemade Lavender Pillow Spray

Ingredients:

• 2 ounces witch hazel
• 10-20 drops lavender essential oil

Instructions:

• Pour the witch hazel and lavender essential oil into an amber glass spray bottle. Close the bottle and shake well to combine. Use the spray when ready, but exercise caution when using essential oils around children or pets.
• Store the lavender spray in a cool, dry place to preserve freshness.

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Wrinkles are a natural part of the aging process. Nobody wants to see the effects of Father Time, but it is inevitable. The lines and creases in the skin tend to form on skin that is regularly exposed to the sun, such as the face, hands, neck, and forearms. UV exposure can break down collagen and elastin fibers in the skin, which causes wrinkling. Smoking, poor diet, and other pollutants can also increase the development of wrinkles.

If your wrinkles bother you, there are many options to help make them less visible and smooth them out. Various medications, skin care techniques, diet corrections, and even DIY solutions can help. Creating the DIY wrinkle reducer in this article may be the right first step toward more youthful looking skin. Just keep this in mind: although the ingredients in the wrinkle reducer are highly beneficial for the skin and exhibit anti-aging properties, this is not a quick fix item that can make wrinkles vanish. Couple the use of this wrinkle reducer with healthy eating, regular exercise, and proper skin care for best results. 

Benefits Of Witch Hazel

Renowned for its astringent properties, witch hazel may help tighten the skin and reduce the appearance of pores. Witch hazel has a rich polyphenol content, which aids skin rejuvenation. Those polyphenols, which are antioxidant compounds, can help improve collagen and elastin production, which is essential for maintaining firm skin. Using witch hazel may also help soothe inflamed skin, making it beneficial for those with irritated or sensitive skin. When you apply witch hazel to the skin, it helps ease puffiness and redness. 

Benefits Of Argan Oil

This versatile carrier oil is rich in vitamin E and essential fatty acids, which may play an integral role in moisturizing the skin and simultaneously providing antioxidant protection. According to research, argan oil helps to enhance the skin’s elasticity, which makes it an excellent choice for combatting dry skin. It has demonstrated an ability to help maturing skin retain moisture and prevent the appearance of fine lines. 

How Do Argan Oil And Witch Hazel Work Together?

Combining argan oil and witch hazel creates a synergistic effect that targets signs of aging. As witch hazel firms and tightens, argan oil adds deep moisture, preventing dryness that can increase the risk of wrinkles. Both ingredients contain antioxidants, which enhance their efficacy. Additionally, the blend of witch hazel and argan oil helps boost the skin’s natural repair processes, protecting it against environmental stressors. Consider these two ingredients as a harmonious duo that helps contribute to a smoother, more youthful complexion. 

DIY Wrinkle Reducer

Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup witch hazel
• 1/4 cup argan oil
• 5 drops lavender essential oil

Instructions:

• Pour the witch hazel and argan oil into a mixing bowl and whisk to combine. Add the essential oils and continue to mix well for 10 seconds or so. 
• Pour the mixed solution into a glass container (preferably an amber glass container to preserve lavender essential oil’s properties) and seal tightly for freshness. 
• We recommend that you use this wrinkle reducer twice daily. Start by washing your skin to prepare the skin. Apply a small amount of the wrinkle reducer to your fingertips and massage into areas of the face prone to wrinkles, such as around the eyes and mouth.

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Spring is a beautiful, blossoming season for many, but it brings misery to those who suffer from seasonal allergies. Trees and flowers bloom, weeds release pollen, and fresh cut grass causes obnoxious sneezing. An estimated 40 to 60 million people experience seasonal allergies each year, or about 20% of people living in certain countries. 

When left untreated, seasonal allergy symptoms can become highly miserable, affecting daily activities. In severe instances, they can even cause asthma attacks. Treating these seasonal allergies ultimately reduces asthma-related hospitalizations and emergencies. How do you treat these allergies without medications? The good news is that there are many natural ways to treat seasonal allergies.

What Are Seasonal Allergies? 

The medical term for seasonal allergies is allergic rhinitis, or hay fever. Affecting the nasal passageways, seasonal allergies are characterized by the presence of inflammatory cells in the mucosa and submucosa. A person can suffer from hay fever any time of year, as allergies depend on a person’s triggers. Allergic rhinitis doesn’t just occur in the spring; rather, it can occur through the summer and fall. The flora in the place where you live may make symptoms worse, or cause them to go away. It is truly dependent on each person. 

In order to properly address your seasonal allergies, pay attention and recognize which things trigger symptoms. Research suggests that nearly 75% of people in the United States who suffer from seasonal allergies are allergic to ragweed. Pollen from ragweed is highest during fall, so keep that in mind. The most common symptoms one can experience as a result of seasonal allergies are: 

• Runny nose
• Watery eyes
• Stuffy nose
• Scratchy throat
• Exhaustion and sleep troubles
• Postnasal drip
• Sneezing
• Excess mucus production
• Asthma
• Hives
• Coughing
• Wheezing
• Mild ear infections
• Headaches
• Mood swings

Best Supplements For Allergy Symptoms

Ideally, you want to get in front of your symptoms, so experts suggest supplementing 30 to 60 days before the onset of symptoms for best results. Research indicates the phototherapy, spirulina, and butterbur show promise for treating symptoms of seasonal allergies:

• Quercetin: This flavonoid gives fruits and vegetables their rich color, but it also stops the production and release of histamine. It is possible that quercetin may interfere with certain medications, so consult your healthcare professional before starting it, especially if you take antibiotics and cyclosporine. 
• Spirulina: Just like quercetin, spirulina stops the release of histamine. In a double-blind placebo-controlled study, consuming spirulina significantly improved symptoms, including sneezing, nasal congestion, itching, and nasal discharge. 
• Butterbur: Although it has been traditionally used to treat excess mucus, asthma, and bronchitis, butterbur may help reduce seasonal allergies. In one study, hay fever sufferers were given butterbur and it was found to be as effective as some allergic rhinitis medications. 
• Stinging nettle: Stinging nettle is a common homeopathic medicine exhibiting natural antihistamine and anti-inflammatory properties. It can help reduce the body’s production of symptom-causing histamine. Stinging nettle can have adverse interactions with certain medications, such as lithium, sedatives, and blood thinners.

Natural Treatments

There are complementary approaches that can help you feel better, but may not completely get rid of your symptoms. You can use: 

• A neti pot: Nasal irrigation is an effective way to flush out mucus and foreign invaders in the nasal passageways. You can use a neti pot once or twice daily, but make sure you use saline packets and distilled water for best results. 
• Acupuncture: This alternative remedy may help reduce symptoms of seasonal allergies without side effects. Before your allergies take over, meet with an acupuncturist to determine the best way to address your allergy symptoms. 
• Essential oils: Diffuse essential oils in a diffuser to help open up the nasal passages and lungs. Certain essential oils, such as basil, lemon, tea tree, eucalyptus, peppermint, and lavender work to improve circulation and relieve stress. 

Best Foods To Eat During Allergy Season

Believe it or not, the foods you eat can have an impact on the severity of your allergy symptoms. Much like the supplements we mentioned earlier, certain foods provide nutrients that support immune function and have natural antihistamine properties. Some of them are:

• Apple cider vinegar works to dissolve mucus and aid lymphatic drainage, which can reduce congestion due to allergies. Enjoy a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar with one tablespoon of fresh lemon juice in a cup of water three times per day. 
• Ginger and turmeric pack a powerful anti-inflammatory punch that may help alleviate allergy symptoms and reduce sore throat. 
• Hot and spicy foods, such as chili peppers, horseradish, and wasabi, work to thin mucus and ease nasal irrigation. 
• Both broccoli and Brussels sprouts help clear up congestion and aid natural detoxification. 
• Leafy greens, such as kale, arugula, Romaine lettuce, spinach, and chard, offer antioxidant compounds that work to nourish cells and combat allergy symptoms. 
• Pineapple contains bromelain, which is an enzyme that not only aids the digestion of protein, but also helps reduce nasal swelling. Studies suggest that bromelain may help reduce your reaction to allergens. Make sure that you eat the core, as it has the highest concentration of essential nutrients for allergy season. 
• Citrus fruits, such as oranges, lemons, limes, and grapefruits, offer a lot of vitamin C, which helps encourage immune function while offering an antihistamine boost.

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Root vegetables have been enjoyed by many cultures for hundreds, even thousands, of years. These vegetables are defined as edible plants that grow underground. Popular root vegetables include turnips, beets, potatoes, carrots, and ginger, among many others. Each vegetable comes with a distinct set of nutrients and health benefits, some of which we’ll explore in this article. Continue reading to learn about some healthy root vegetables to enjoy this fall and winter. 

Radishes

Radishes have a peppery flavor, which comes from the sulfur-containing compounds, isothiocyanates. These compounds exhibit anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects in the body. Radishes are also rich in vitamin C, which encourages optimal immune function and aids collagen synthesis. Additionally, radishes provide coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10), anthocyanins, and phenolic acids, all of which aim to protect the cells in the body. 

Ginger

Ginger is a flowering plant from China and is closely related to turmeric, another root vegetable. It contains gingerol, the primary antioxidant to which researchers attribute many of ginger’s health benefits. One study involved 1,278 pregnant women, and study authors noted that ginger was effective at reducing morning sickness and nausea. Other studies have found ginger to be effective at reducing pain and inflammation. 

Beets

Beets may be one of the most nutritious root vegetables available. They are naturally rich in folate, fiber, manganese, and nitrates, which help dilate blood vessels, potentially lowering blood pressure levels. According to research, consuming beets may help improve exercise performance and increase blood flow to the brain. Take advantage of these benefits by roasting, steaming, juicing, pickling, or boiling these blood red vegetables. 

Rutabaga

This root vegetable is not in your average grocery store. It isn’t the most attractive vegetable, but it does offer lots of fiber, vitamin C, potassium, and several B vitamins, including thiamin and niacin. These B vitamins are necessary for energy metabolism, cellular function, and growth. One cup of mashed rutabaga, which can serve as a potato substitute, satisfies nearly 50% of the recommended daily intake (RDI) of vitamin C. 

Carrots

Carrots are packed with provitamin A carotenoids, including beta-carotene, which converts to vitamin A in the body. Beta-carotene colors carrots and is largely responsible for their many health benefits. Carrots also contain vitamin K, vitamin B6, and potassium, which is a mineral necessary for blood pressure regulation. Because of the impressive amount of antioxidants, carrot intake has been linked to numerous health benefits, the primary of which is a reduced risk of multiple cancers, including pancreatic, leukemia, breast, and prostate. 

Onions

It would be hard for many recipes delicious without the addition of onion. They provide integral flavor and offer an impressive nutritional profile to boot. Onions are particularly rich in fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants. Research shows that including onions in you daily diet may significantly reduce blood sugar levels, specifically in people with diabetes. Other research indicates that onions offer potent anticancer properties. Some observational studies note that a higher intake of onions may reduce the risk of common types of cancer.

Purple Potatoes

Unlike yams, which are naturally rich in beta-carotene, purple potatoes contain anthocyanins, which are plant pigments that give the potatoes their signature color and health benefits. Anthocyanins exhibit antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. According to researchers, a diet rich in anthocyanin-rich foods, such as purple potatoes and blueberries, is especially beneficial for heart health. One study found that consuming 200 grams of cooked purple potato per day for two weeks improved arterial stiffness. Arterial stiffness increases the risk of heart attack and dementia. Purple potatoes may help enhance arterial health with their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. 

Celeriac

This root vegetable may be the ugliest one on this list, but don’t let the appearance steer you away. Celeriac belongs to the same plant family as parsley and celery and even tastes like celery. It provides lots of vitamin C, fiber, and potassium. Because of its low carbohydrate content, celeriac makes a great lower-carb swap for other potatoes and root vegetables. Additionally, this unique root vegetable offers a variety of antioxidants, including flavonoids like apigenin and luteolin, which exhibit cellular-protective properties.

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The beginning of the year is a common time to adopt new habits and make big life changes. Spring also marks a time of starting fresh, as flowers bloom and temperatures rise. There is a big push for a lot of people to freshen up the home and surrounding environment. Not only does spring cleaning create a more visually appealing space, but it also brings some notable health benefits for the body and mind. 

Mental health experts note that people with less clutter in the livers report higher psychological well-being. They may also express more happiness being in their own space. Additionally, people with respiratory problems, such as allergies or asthma, may find symptom relief after deep cleaning their indoor space. 

Now, spring cleaning should not be viewed as a chore, even though it technically is. Focus on the mental and physical health benefits that spring cleaning can provide and you’ll be scrubbing the floors in no time. Continue reading to learn about five possible health benefits of spring cleaning. 

May Enhance Productivity

One study found that people with cluttered office spaces experienced higher rates of emotional exhaustion, indecision, and job-related tension than those with less clutter. They also reported lower rates of job satisfaction and were not as efficient at time management. All of these factors contributed to poor overall job performance. Basically, cleaning your home or office desk may help clear your head and contribute to better workflow. Additionally, you may experience a boost in productivity, especially if you work from home. 

Potentially Minimize Allergies

Allergic to dust, pollen, dander, or other allergens? A deep spring clean may help reduce the severity (or completely get rid of) your allergy symptoms. If you are allergic to anything inside your home, such as pet dander or dust mites, spring cleaning may benefit your nose, eyes, and chest. According to health experts, removing indoor allergens from the home can reduce the signs and symptoms of allergic rhino-conjunctivitis. Such symptoms include runny nose, sneezing, itchy eyes, and general congestion. Use a vacuum with a high efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter to remove allergens as you clean. You can also use an indoor air purifier to help improve air quality in the home. 

May Boost Your Mood

Do you ever feel a sense of pride and mood elevation when you clean up your space? Well, researchers have observed that spring cleaning is a helpful strategy to improve overall mental wellness. One study found that people with less clutter in their homes reported a higher sense of well-being than those with more clutter. Additionally, other research indicates that more clutter in the home causes higher levels of cortisol (the stress hormone), especially in women. The reason for this is because clutter can cause distress or impairment in a person’s life. Getting rid of items that no longer serve a purpose can help bring about a greater sense of self. 

May Promote Heart Health And Longevity

Spring cleaning, or any cleaning for that matter, is a form of light exercise. It gets your heart pumping and helps you burn some calories. In fact, the American Heart Association (AHA) even recommends spring cleaning as a way to get active and boost heart health. By improving heart health, you could positively affect your longevity as well. An earlier study found that housework was one of the many daily activities that contributed to a lower risk of cardiovascular disease. The only thing that would get in the way of cardiovascular benefits is using extremely harmful chemical cleaners. You can easily avoid this by using all-natural DIY cleaning products. 

May Improve Asthma Symptoms

The birds are singing and the flowers are in bloom, but people with asthma may dread this time of year. Flower plants and pollen can worsen asthma symptoms, but not all allergens exist outside. You can easily encounter asthma triggers in your home, but spring cleaning can help you keep your home allergen-free, potentially curbing your symptoms. Researchers note that spring cleaning can help remove cockroach allergens, dust mites, and pet dander in your home. Removing such allergens, if allergic, will help relieve any respiratory irritation or symptoms. Finally, consider wearing a mask while cleaning to help you avoid inhaling large amounts of allergens while cleaning.

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These delicious, vibrant pomegranate ginger shots pack a potent punch of nutritional goodness. The ingredients offer a diverse mix of antioxidants and phytonutrients, which work to fight off inflammation, boost brain function, and ease symptoms of joint pain. You only need pomegranates and ginger root to make this recipe come alive, although you can include fresh lemon juice to amp up the nutrition and flavor.

Antioxidants are compounds that help protect the body’s cells from free radical damage. A high presence of free radicals in the system can increase the risk of oxidative stress, which contributes to a number of chronic illnesses. Pomegranates are particularly rich in polyphenic compounds, including anthocyanins, punicalagins, and hydrolyzable tannins. Some of these antioxidants exhibit anti-inflammatory activity, which may help ease symptoms of inflammatory disorders. According to several studies, punicalagins have demonstrated the most anti-inflammatory properties. More research is necessary, but pomegranate juice may help reduce certain markers of inflammation.

Pomegranates color the drink and offer a sweetly tart flavor, but ginger is the other star of the show in these wellness shots. Ginger contains gingerol, a natural compound that benefits gastrointestinal motility, the rate at which food exits the stomach. Consuming ginger also helps relieve the discomforts of nausea due to pregnancy, chemotherapy, and bloating or gas.

As you can see, starting your day with a shot of these two ingredients will only benefit you. Plus, the lively flavor will help energize you, so much so, that you may not even need caffeine! Try them out and let us know how you like them.

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If a pill could reduce anxiety and depression, improve sleep, boost mood, and enhance immune function, everyone would take it. A quick-fix solution like that is exactly what everyone wants, but such a pill does not exist. Fortunately, you can practice gratitude, which can provide all of those aforementioned health benefits, according to several studies. 

Clinical trials indicate that regularly practicing gratitude can have a long-lasting effects on a person’s well-being. It may help improve immune response, contribute to better sleep, and even lower blood pressure. A recent study found that people who were more grateful had better heart health, specifically less inflammation and better heart rhythms. Another study found that people who kept a gratitude journal had a reduced intake of dietary fats – as much as 25% lower than those who did not keep a gratitude journal. 

What’s The Right Amount Of Gratitude?

You should practice gratitude daily, plain and simple. If that magic pill existed, you’d take it every day, so that’s why gratitude has a place in your everyday life. In fact, starting your day by thinking of someone or something that you’re grateful for can set you on a healthier path. Send a family member or friend a funny text or thoughtful message. Ask your barista how their day is going when you get coffee. At the end of the day, consider writing three things that you appreciate about your life in a gratitude journal. 

Behavior Changes Biology

Your behavior changes biology, meaning that positive gestures benefit the body. The way this works is that the body releases oxytocin, a hormone that helps connect people. Oxytocin is often referred to as “the love hormone” because it aids better connections. Thanking people for their efforts or who they are also benefits them, as they feel appreciated and valued. Sharing kindness and gratitude can make both partiers happier!

Decrease Stress Levels

According to research, thinking about what you appreciate can trigger the parasympathetic nervous system, the calming part of the nervous system. Researchers note that this can have protective effects on the body, one of which is the reduction in cortisol levels. Cortisol is healthy in certain amounts, but high levels can impair sleep, increase anxiety, and cause overeating, among other things. By reducing cortisol and increasing oxytocin, you ultimately feel more love and have a drive to continue expressing gratitude. 

Increase Positive Emotions

If you want higher levels of positive emotions, including joy, pleasure, happiness, and optimism, gratitude is your ticket. Researchers concur that people who regularly practice gratitude have stronger social relationships and fewer feelings of isolation and loneliness. This may result from being more generous, compassionate, and forgiving. A recent study found that gratitude may also reduce the frequency or duration of depressive episodes. 

Improve Physical Health

In addition to the mental and social benefits, practicing gratitude can also improve physical health. Research studies show that people who practice gratitude are more likely to exercise regularly and take better care of their physical health. These results are consistent among a study of people with neuromuscular disease. Additional studies show that highly gracious people sleep better and have fewer body pains and aches. 

You can easily practice gratitude in everyday life. There’s no need to dwell on imperfections or negative emotions because recognizing and appreciating what’s around you is more conducive to your mental and physical health. Simple tricks to help practice gratitude every day include:

• Keeping a gratitude journal
• Writing thank you notes, texts, emails, or calling people on the phone
• Starting a gratitude jar to pay it forward
• Giving mental “thank yous” (to people you aren’t able to acknowledge in other ways)
• Practice meditation or prayer

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The post Be Thankful: Science Says Gratitude Is Good For Your Health appeared first on Dherbs - The Best All Natural Herbal Remedies & Products.