http://www.manyuses.org/discussions/popular/feed.rss Wed, 22 Feb 12 14:58:45 -0500 Popular - ManyUses.org en-CA http://www.manyuses.org/discussion/1/charcoal-in-barbeques Sat, 12 Nov 2011 17:28:27 -0500 ManicScribbler 1@/discussions ]]> http://www.manyuses.org/discussion/5/other-uses-of-charcoal Sat, 12 Nov 2011 17:33:25 -0500 ManicScribbler 5@/discussions Dehumidifier and Air Purifier

Damp rooms such as basements, bathrooms and utility rooms can benefit from the addition of a dehumidifier to absorb excess moisture and a do it yourself version using charcoal could not be easier to make. Take any suitable, large container and pierce holes into it. Place a few charcoal briquettes inside and place your home-made dehumidifier in the relevant space. Replace the briquettes every few months for optimum performance.

Your charcoal dehumidifier can also benefit people with breathing conditions, if placed in their rooms, as charcoal purifies the air by attracting air-borne pollutants.

Air Freshener and Deodoriser

Apart from its role as a dehumidifier, charcoal is a natural and inexpensive deodoriser. It can be placed in gym bags, lockers, wardrobes or closets so that its porous structure can absorb moisture and odours. Make small pouches containing charcoal lumps to place inside trainers or boots to keep them fresh-smelling. This is an inexpensive, eco-friendly and long-lasting solution to smelly footwear and sports equipment.

Toolbox, Gardening Equipment, or Fishing Tackle

Place a few lumps of charcoal in the toolbox or garden shed to prevent tools, equipment, fishing tackle etc from corrosion or rust damage. Just place two or three charcoal briquettes inside a cotton bag and drop this into your toolbox etc to keep free from moisture.

De-icer

If you keep supplies of sand or salt for winter de-icing, adding some charcoal briquettes to this will soak up moisture and keep it free-flowing and prevent clumping. It is a small bonus, but it will save time on those depressing, icy mornings in mid-winter.

Book Shelves

It’s a good idea to conceal some lumps of charcoal amongst your books to absorb the damp in the air and prevent them from yellowing. Charcoal absorbs those musty odours associated with damp books and keeps them fresh-smelling.

Stain Remover

The Japanese, who have used charcoal for centuries, believe it can remove stains from solvents. They would place three or pieces in the washing machine with heavily soiled work clothing, and without detergent, to remove these heavy duty stains.

Cut Flowers

When we buy cut flowers we are used to finding a little packet of ‘cut flower food’ attached to the bouquet. These yellow crystals are combination of biocides, to kill the bacteria, an acidifier, to help the stem take up the water and sugars, to act as food. Instead of this compound, charcoal will keep cut flowers fresh by removing contaminants to keep the water pure and allowing the stems to last longer. Placing a small piece of charcoal in the bottom of the vase will keep the water clean and pure by absorbing impurities and releasing beneficial minerals.

Aquariums

Using activated charcoal in an aquarium is commonplace. It helps to filter the water by adsorbing excess unwanted materials such as dissolved organic matter, heavy metals etc which can be harmful to fish. A sprinkling of charcoal granules in aquariums and goldfish bowls will purify the water and create a cleaner environment for the fish. However the filtering or adsorption properties do decrease over time so the charcoal should be replaced regularly.

Animal Feed

Charcoal is often added to animal foods as a digestive aid and to help adsorb toxins and organisms from animal foodstuffs. It also helps to reduce waste odours. Captive birds in particular respond well to having granulated charcoal sprinkled into their feed or powdered charcoal mixed in with their drinking water to counteract the toxins inherent in commercially prepared feeds. Used in animal sheds and pens, activated charcoal not only acts as a sanitiser, but reduces infestation from micro-organisms and their accompanying potential risks.

Insect Repellent

Spreading charcoal on or under the floor is believed to keep termites, ants and cockroaches at bay. In houses that have been chemically treated for infestations, charcoal can help to diffuse the smell. Spreading powdered charcoal around entry points will prevent ants from trespassing into the property.

Insomnia

Some people believe that charcoal pillows can relieve insomnia as well as stiff shoulders and lumbago. Special pillows are filled with charcoal which helps promote relaxing sleep by purifying the sleeping environment and emitting beneficial infrared rays which aid the circulation of the blood in face, brain and neck area. The negative ions not only promote refreshing sleep but reduce the amount of sleep needed.

As a Bath Aid

Some claim that adding a few lumps of charcoal to the bath water will help to relax and de-stress the body. This acts as a detoxifier and is said to be beneficial to smokers, alcoholics or for anyone suffering from skin ailments such as eczema, dermatitis etc for whom its cleansing, purifying and antibacterial properties are particularly beneficial. A charcoal bath is also said to relieve fatigue and help to refresh and recharge the batteries.

Electromagnetic Radiation

The possibility of electromagnetic radiation is a very real concern for some people. Placing a few lumps of charcoal by electrical appliances such as televisions, computers and microwaves is believed to counteract the damage from electromagnetic radiation.
]]> http://www.manyuses.org/discussion/606/what-is-manyuses.org Tue, 29 Nov 2011 05:06:17 -0500 ManyUses 606@/discussions Welcome to ManyUses.org.

The purpose for this website is to create a place for people wishing to find out about, or to discuss, the many and varied uses of ordinary, everyday objects and commodities, such as charcoal, garlic and lemon. These topics can be rooted in history, folklore and superstition, or innovative new ideas people have discovered through trial and error and want to share with others.

Like all community projects, we want to see the site flourish and grow as a useful and entertaining source of reference for people seeking new or traditional answers to their questions.

Please explore the site and let us know your thoughts about it, and what you would like us to include or change. ]]> http://www.manyuses.org/discussion/11/medicinal-uses-of-garlic Sat, 12 Nov 2011 17:43:06 -0500 ManicScribbler 11@/discussions Open Wounds and Infections

Wounds and infections can be cleansed and treated with a garlic solution. After the wound has been cleaned, grate or pound twenty or so cloves of garlic, being careful to use only clean utensils. Mix it with a little water to make a paste which can be spread over a sterile gauze dressing and applied to the wound. Keep in place with a bandage and leave for two days when the process should be carefully repeated. During World War II, when antibiotics were scarce, garlic was often used in this way to treat wounded soldiers and protect against gangrene and septic poisoning. During the first war, garlic was also widely used to treat dysentery and typhus.

Throat and Ear Infections

Because garlic kills bacteria it works both externally and internally and many people use it to treat throat infections, colds etc. More often than not nowadays, garlic is taken as a supplement in capsule form, but making your own linctus could not be easier. Simply boil a head of garlic gently in water for 2 hours to make a light tea, adding syrup or honey to sweeten if necessary. Strain this and allow it to cool slightly before sipping. Garlic is also soothing and beneficial in ear infections if garlic infused oil is gently massaged around the ear area.

Oral Thrush and Digestive Tract Disorders

For a more palatable flavour, garlic can be mixed with apple cider vinegar and sweetened with honey. This can be sipped, used as a gargle or administered with a teaspoon like cough medicine. The combined properties of garlic and vinegar help to destroy harmful bacteria in the mouth and digestive tract. It can therefore be used to cure mouth ulcers and oral thrush.

Boosting the Immune System

Taken little and often, garlic can help to boost the immune system. The allicin in garlic is similar to penicillin, though not as strong. It is produced when the garlic is finely chopped or crushed, which increases its strength. For internal problems, chewing on a clove of garlic can release the antibiotic properties. However it is important to use only white cloves as the green thread which is sometimes found in the centre of a clove of garlic is not only indigestible but is also what causes the notorious and lingering garlic ‘pong’ on the breath.

Athletes Foot and other Fungal Infections

For external fungal infections, such as athlete’s foot, a garlic foot bath is both refreshing and effective. You can make this by crushing 4 cloves of garlic with salt or rubbing alcohol into a foot spa or bowl large enough to hold the feet and soaking the feet in this for half an hour. After thoroughly drying the feet, you can rub the infected area with cotton wool swabs soaked in little garlic oil. A twice daily application should help to clear up the fungal infection.


]]> http://www.manyuses.org/discussion/6/lemons-for-health-and-beauty Sat, 12 Nov 2011 17:36:41 -0500 ManicScribbler 6@/discussions Colds and Sore Throats

We all know how soothing a hot lemon drink is when we have a cold, but lemons also make a very effective antiseptic gargle for sore throats and hoarseness. Simply squeeze the juice of a lemon in some salty warm water and gargle regularly.

Cough Syrup

For an inexpensive and soothing cough remedy, mix freshly squeezed lemon juice with honey (slightly more honey than lemon) and a little warm water. Take a couple of spoonfuls as often as needed to sooth an irritating, tickly cough or scratchy throat.

Digestion Aid

For a sluggish digestion, many people swear by drinking a glass of warm water mixed with a tablespoon of lemon juice half an hour before breakfast. This cleanses and stimulates the digestive system and it is also popularly believed that it can also aid weight loss by improving the metabolism.

Aching Joints

The essential oils in lemon peel are said to relax the blood vessels and reduce inflammation. This in turn brings relief in inflammatory diseases such as arthritis or gout. Extract the essential oils using a zester and taking care to remove only the yellow part of the peel. Massage the zest into the affected area and wrap in a warmed bandage to hold the peel in place for a couple of hours.

Sunburn

There are many folk remedies for burnt skin and some should be taken with a pinch of salt, though there will always be someone who claims their efficacy. For mild sunburn a dilute mixture of lemon juice and cold water (juice of 2-3 lemons in 2 cups water) is said to cool the sunburnt skin at the same time as disinfecting it and promoting healing.

Freckles, Dark Spots and Blackheads

Using lemons on unwanted freckles is an age-old remedy which has been well tried and tested. Rub neat lemon juice over the freckles every day and watch them gradually fade. Allow it to dry thoroughly and then apply a light moisturiser as the astringent lemon will tighten and dry the skin. Dabbing lemon juice onto blackheads before bedtime is also a good way to eliminate these unwanted blemishes.

Blonde Hair

Natural blondes will already have noticed that shampoos especially for their colouring often contain lemons. To lighten your hair without harsh chemicals, spray or squeeze lemon juice all over the hair before going out into the sun and allowing it to dry naturally. Use plenty of conditioner when you wash your hair as the lemon will cause dryness. This method is not recommended for bleached hair.

Hair Tonic

Apart from adding shine to dull, limp hair, lemon oil can also be used to help get rid of dandruff. Just massage a little into the scalp half an hour before washing the hair. There are also claims that massaging lemon juice into the scalp can help prevent baldness. The lemon juice should be massaged in with the fingertips then left overnight. The hair should then be gently washed (i.e. not under the shower) using a baby shampoo, the next morning.

Teeth Whitener

Lemon will whiten teeth because the acid draws calcium from the teeth making them lighter. It should therefore be used with caution and not for prolonged periods. Use diluted lemon juice to loosen tartar. To make your own tooth whitener, make a paste from a teaspoon of baking soda and a drop of fresh lemon juice and use this like toothpaste. Rinse thoroughly and then brush your teeth again with your regular fluoride toothpaste.

Breath Freshener

Carefully peel a washed and unwaxed lemon, making sure you have the zest only and none of the pith (the white part), which is extremely bitter. Chew on a small piece of this for fresh, clean breath. Sweetened lemon juice can also help gingivitis and relieve mouth and tongue ulcers.

Rough Elbows

Rubbing lemon juice onto the rough, dark skin of the elbows will not only soften the rough skin, but also lighten it. Save squeezed lemon halves and try sitting with your elbows nestled in them like cups.

Perspiration

Either roll a lemon on a board with your hand or place in a microwave for no more than a minute to soften it, and then slice in half. Rub each half on your underarms to act as both a deodorant and antiperspirant. Allow to dry before showering.

Aromatherapy and Fragrant Oil

This aromatic citrus oil has many therapeutic uses, not least of which is bringing relief from headaches and migraines. A few drops of essential oil in the bath or as a massage oil can revitalise flagging energy and alleviate stress. It has also been known to lift depression and help fight infections. As a burning oil or vaporiser, lemon oil is intensely soothing. It helps relieve symptoms of colds and flu and is said to aid concentration by boosting the spirits and focusing the mind.
]]> http://www.manyuses.org/discussion/9/the-role-of-garlic-in-folklore Sat, 12 Nov 2011 17:41:05 -0500 ManicScribbler 9@/discussions ]]> http://www.manyuses.org/discussion/10/garlic-and-superstitions Sat, 12 Nov 2011 17:41:25 -0500 ManicScribbler 10@/discussions ]]> http://www.manyuses.org/discussion/4/charcoal-in-medicine Sat, 12 Nov 2011 17:31:10 -0500 ManicScribbler 4@/discussions
Antidote for poisons

Because of its adsorption capacity, it has long been used as an antidote for drugs, and the ingestion of poisons and other chemicals. The activated charcoal is harmless to the system and should be taken in a single relatively large dose (the recommended ratio being 8:1 of the poison ingested) as quickly as possible after ingestion. The quicker the charcoal is taken, the more effective it is in counteracting the poison.

Treatment of Indigestion and Heartburn

Medicinal charcoal tablets, or biscuits, can be very effective in treating stomach disorders and discomfort caused by trapped wind or eating spicy or disagreeable foods and are much safer than overdosing on antacid tablets.

Colic and wind

Infantile colic affects most small babies and activated charcoal is one of the most common and natural ingredients of baby colic treatment. Home-made remedies are not to be recommended for tiny infants.

General detox

Most commercially available (and expensive) colon cleaners or detoxification plans include charcoal. This absorbs and removes toxins and also works as a natural deodoriser. Taking activated charcoal daily can prevent intestinal infections, counteract damage to cells and organs and promote healing and well-being.

Anti-Aging

Because activated charcoal prevents cellular changes normally associated with the aging process, it has been said to possess anti-aging properties. In some studies the life span of laboratory animals has been extended, but more research is necessary to scientifically support such claims in humans. Charcoal is also used in some face packs to remove liver spots and wrinkles. It is also reported to remove freckles.

Lowering Cholesterol

Studies in the Lancet have suggested that that cholesterol can be lowered by up to 25% with activated charcoal. It appears to work by reducing the concentration of lipids, cholesterol and triglycerides in the blood and vital organs. This has consequent benefits in the prevention of arteriosclerosis or coronary artery disease. It is crucial to discuss using activated charcoal with your physician, rather than self-medicating.

Wounds and abrasions

Compresses made of charcoal can speed up the healing of wounds, while at the same time eliminating any odour from them. It should never be placed directly onto open wounds however, as it can result in a permanent tattoo appearance. The best way to use this is to make a pack or poultice using ground charcoal mixed to a paste with water spread onto clean, damp gauze which should then be applied (cloth side down) to the wound. This will draw out poisons and bacteria and promote healing. Charcoal may also draw out bruises.

Insect Bites and Stings

In countries where severe trauma or discomfort from insect bites and stings is a daily threat, charcoal is well-known and age-old remedy. For multiple stings, whether from wasps, hornets, ants or spiders, immersion in a charcoal bath solution brings quickest relief, especially in the very young who can become extremely distressed. For isolated bites and stings, a warm charcoal poultice will reduce the swelling and take away the pain. Even snake bites have been treated successfully in this way.

Ear Infections and Eye Infections

Most parents of young children know the extreme distress earache can cause. Doctors invariable treat these with repeated doses of antibiotics which may work temporarily, but bring their own problems with them. Charcoal can successfully treat ear infections. Try a warm charcoal poultice first to the external ear. If this does not bring about relief, a charcoal paste can be tried, but always seek the help of someone experienced in the preparation and application of this. Eye infections can also be treated by placing a warm charcoal poultice over the eye while resting. Leave at least four hours, preferably overnight.
]]> http://www.manyuses.org/discussion/2/charcoal-in-art Sat, 12 Nov 2011 17:29:04 -0500 ManicScribbler 2@/discussions ]]> http://www.manyuses.org/discussion/7/lemons-around-the-house Sat, 12 Nov 2011 17:39:10 -0500 ManicScribbler 7@/discussions Lemon ice cubes

Nothing is more refreshing and cooling on a hot summer’s day than a tall glass of home-made lemonade. There are numerous recipes around for delicious home-made lemonade, but instead of pouring over plain ice, lemon ice cubes look and taste a little more special. To make these, simply cut up small segments of lemon and pop into ice cube trays before filling with cold water and freezing.

Kitchen Deodoriser

Lemon is an extremely effective deodoriser. Placing a few slices near the cat litter tray can remove unpleasant odours. To keep the fridge smelling fresh, pour neat lemon juice onto a small piece of sponge in a saucer or small tray and place in the fridge overnight to eliminate unwanted smells. When cooking cabbage, place a slice of lemon in the cooking pot to ensure your house is not filled with the lingering odour of cooked cabbage. Rub chopping boards with the cut surface of a lemon to rid them of strong smells. Add some dried lemon peel to the kindling in the fire grate before you light a fire for a clean and pleasant aroma.

Room Freshener

Just place leftover lemon peel in a pan of water and leave to simmer. The fresh, clean fragrance will slowly permeate the whole house, eliminating odours and leaving the house smelling great.

Potpourri

Dry some slices of oranges and lemons along with the skins. Leave the slices whole but break up the dried peel and add these, along with lemon leaves if you can find them, to your potpourri bowl for a refreshing citrus scent.

Fingerbowls

Barbeques are delicious but messy. When eating fried chicken, ribs or other sticky, finger or barbeque food, have a few fingerbowls handy containing warm water with a slice of lemon to clean the fingers and cut through the grease.

General Degreaser

If you need to ensure a bowl is completely free of grease (for example, when whisking egg whites), rub the interior with a cut lemon. Add lemon juice to washing up water when cleaning particularly greasy dishes and utensils. Ceramic cookers and their surrounds can be kept grease-free and sparkling by a squeeze of lemon juice onto the cleaning cloth.

Limescale

The build-up of limescale in the bathroom can be effectively eradicated by rubbing affected areas with half a cut lemon. Wipe the area with a damp cloth before polishing with a dry one to create a sparkling shine. Save squeezed lemons and pop quarters into your kettle. Add two cups of water and bring to the boil. Leave overnight and the following morning the kettle will be shining and free from mineral deposits. Rinse thoroughly before re-using the kettle – you might want to boil it once and discard the water before making your morning cuppa.

Fruit and Vegetables

When poaching, preserving or preparing fruits that discolour quickly, such as apples, avocados, potatoes etc, a squeeze of lemon juice will prevent discolouration and help keep their appeal. Similarly, when cooking button or sliced white mushrooms, a squeeze of lemon juice will not only whiten the mushrooms, but help to bring out their flavour.

Cut Flowers

To keep cut flowers fresher for longer, add a couple of tablespoons of lemonade to the water in the vase. Alternatively make your own flower food by adding a tablespoon of caster sugar to two tablespoons of fresh lemon juice.

Stains

Lemon juice can remove rust marks from clothing. It is also effective, when mixed with a little salt, for removing ink stains.

Microwaves

Microwaves can be cleaned in a single wipe after microwaving half a lemon in a small jug of water for five minutes on high. Wipe clean with a cloth while still warm.

Washing Machines and Dishwashers

Use neat lemon juice to wipe around the seal and soap dispenser of your washing machine to remove musty smells and soap accumulation. Mix lemon juice with baking soda and put this into the fabric softener compartment or add to the wash during the rinse cycle to both soften your laundry and kill bacteria, as well as adding a pleasant lemon scent to your clean clothes. For a thorough cleanse, pour two cups of lemon juice directly into the drum of the washing machine or dishwasher and run on the hottest setting through a full cycle to remove soap build up and odours and leave the appliance sparkling clean.

Polish and Cleaner

tarnished chrome, brass, copper and stainless steel can be buffed to a sparkling shine if rubbed with a paste of lemon juice and salt. Coat the area with the paste, leave for five minutes and then rinse off in warm water before drying and buffing to a shine. Alternatively dip half a lemon into salt and rub the affected area. Heavily soiled dishes and pans with dried-on food residue can be cleaned much more easily after soaking them in lemon juice.

Furniture Polish

For a cheap and effective home-made furniture polish, mix sunflower or odourless vegetable oil with lemon juice (in a ratio of 2:1). Use in a spray bottle to clean and polish furniture.
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