Archiv der Kategorie ‘Home and Garden‘

UNEXPECTED THINGS from MIHO

Living with MIHO – Home Accessories



MIHO – Unexpected Things is a trend from Italy, which sets new standards in the area of decorative accessories for your living space. Unexpected accents that will surprise everyone. MIHO is pure lifestyle, living in the 21st century: creative, trendy, quirky, and made ​from organic, non-toxic materials.

Unexpected – marvelously patterned, colourful antlers from MIHO


The style of MIHO is unique and anyone who holds a decorative object from MIHO in his hand probably asks himself, how the designer came up with this absolutely hilarious idea. A deer head with antlers in bright colours, which can be assembled from individual pre-cut pieces – unique pieces that will delight everyone with their exceptional patterns – plaids, florals, dots. There’s a bird house with a rose design that is so unique that everyone has to take a second look. Decorative items from MIHO give each room that extra kick, regardless of your personal decorating style.

MIHO – decorative accessories that will astonish you

Tradition lies behind the unusual creativity. The idea for the unique MIHO home accessories comes from Italy – the craftsmanship and production of these unique objects, from Germany. More specifically, it was the old Italian company Pianezza, which is world renowned for its exceptional materials, that developed this idea together with Werkhaus, a German company.

MIHO – an unusual gift idea


Patty in Paris: “I received my first MIHO as a gift. I unpacked it, was absolutely flabbergasted when I saw it, and immediately began to assemble the various pre-cut parts. I was so excited about the quirky, unusual design that I had overlooked the instructions. Nevertheless, I had my first MIHO object assembled within minutes without needing any tools and I was able to hang the MIHO deer head up immediately. It is an absolute eye-catcher that now embellishes my office and I can see that everyone who comes in is totally amazed.

What particularly excited me was the high-quality, organic material from which the MIHO designs are made. The paint is free of pollutants and the environmental MDF pieces fit together perfectly. No glue, no toxic materials. In my eyes, this is really innovative and very up-to-date.

My second MIHO design followed very quickly – a bird house in an extraordinary floral – checkered design. Astonishing! It adds such a nice accent hanging on the wall next to my deer antlers. In addition I placed a MIHO stool next to my desk. The larger part consists of a wooden pattern, which is complemented by a totally unexpected plaid and floral print. The stool is quite unusual looking and is very practical since it’s very stable and can be used as additional storage space. What I’m missing now, and what happens to be at the top of my wish list, is the butterfly display case. I’m sure it’s no secret when I tell you that MIHO is a crazy, colourful, extravagant living trend, which can turn you into a collector in no time.

Take a look at the ** UNEXPECTED THINGS from MIHO ** in the online shop from PureNature.

Gazpacho ingredients lose vitamin C during preparation

Scientists recommend eating gazpacho as soon as it is prepared

In summer, more dishes like gazpacho – a cold soup containing raw vegetables, bread, olive oil and vinegar – are consumed. A new study has revealed that ingredients’ vitamin C content as well as other organic acids is lower in the resulting mixture, meaning that it should be eaten immediately after preparation.

Is it true that cutting fruit and boiling vegetables cause vitamin loss? A new study has examined gazpacho, one of the most popular Spanish summer dishes, comparing the levels of vitamin C (ascorbic and dehydroascorbic acid) and other organic acids (citric, oxalic, fumaric, malic and glutamic) found in each of the ingredients separately before preparation and in the resulting gazpacho.

“We found that the gazpacho showed a lower ascorbic/dehydroascorbic acid ratio than the vegetables used to prepare it,” explained Elena María Rodríguez, co-author of the study conducted by the Complutense University of Madrid and the University of La Laguna (Santa Cruz de Tenerife). She added: “This suggests that some of the vegetables’ antioxidant capacity is lost.”

Of the ingredients, peppers had the highest vitamin C content, followed by tomatoes, and then the gazpacho itself. In general, tomatoes and garlic contained the highest levels of organic acids, whereas cucumbers presented the lowest content. Garlic and onions had the highest concentrations of the main organic acids present, glutamic and citric, than the other vegetables.

The authors therefore recommend eating gazpacho as soon as it has been prepared, or “preserving it correctly so that the vegetables maintain their antioxidant characteristics.”

A drink to beat the heat

Gazpacho is a natural source of vitamins (A, C and E), carbohydrates, phosphorus, iron, calcium, magnesium, manganese, zinc, copper, potassium and sodium. It also provides fibre and antioxidant substances such as lycopene, which gives tomatoes their red colouring, and carotenoids. Given its mineral salt content, it is considered to be isotonic as it prevents over-hydration during summer.

Although there are recipes for all tastes, gazpacho generally contains bread, olive oil, vinegar and raw vegetables (tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, onions and garlic). Given its low calorie content, it is usually served cold during the hot summer months.

References:

C.M. Verde Méndez, E.M. Rodríguez Rodríguez, C. Díaz Romero, M.C. Sánchez Mata, M.C. Matallana González y M.E. Torija Isasa. “Vitamin C and organic acid contents in Spanish ”Gazpacho” soup related to the vegetables used for its elaboration process”. CyTA – Journal of Food 9(1): 71, mayo de 2011.

Photo: Javier Lastra

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PureNature Online Shop now available in Spain

Since July 8th, 2011, we are pleased to welcome an online PureNature shop in Spain. Spanish customers will find over 2,000 products that will help them to live more comfortably with their allergies and to assist them with more environmentally conscious living.

A customer on-site service director has been operating since last year. Our representative, Mr. David Palma has replied to the Spanish customer inquiries with great expertise and is in constant contact with his German colleagues in order to satisfy all customer requests and inquiries with the greatest customer satisfaction.

The translation of the PureNature products took many months to complete and is ongoing. The effort has paid off, because with the launch of the online store, it is now much easier for the Spanish customers to shop. The goods are shipped from the PureNature, based in Idar-Oberstein, Germany to Spain. The new customers are welcomed by receiving free shipping during the month of July with their first order.

A warm welcome to Spain, and at this point, a big thank you to David Palma and his wife Eva Caballé, without whom this project would never have become a reality!

All the best,

from the entire PureNature team

 

Have a look at the new Spanish PureNature Shop: www.purenature.es

 

12 tips for environmentally conscious and healthy living

 

Our planet is suffering and it is time that we are careful with resources and the environment. With a little thought and know-how, anyone can contribute to a healthier environment and thus to a healthier life for themselves.

  1. Use items over again, instead of constantly buying new products. Look around to see if the item you are considering purchasing is actually needed.
  2. Surround yourself with natural durable materials, instead of polluting the environment with plastic materials.
  3. Avoid unnecessary products, like room fragranced sprays, and air fresheners which pollute the environment and are often unhealthy. Instead, ventilate with fresh air which is free!
  4. Switch to organic, which reduces pollution and is better for your health. Shop at local farmers markets, which cuts down on transportation of products.
  5. Fill the washing machine completely, not only half way. Dry your clothes outside instead of in the dryer.
  6. Turn off electrical devices when they are not in use. Pull the plug out from the wall because otherwise many devices will consume more power.
  7. Avoid bottled water. Drinking plenty of water is healthy, but the transportation of this water to markets is often long. Water from plastic bottles also takes more resources and can lead to more pollution. Filter your tap water which saves money and resources.
  8. Take a basket or tote bag to the market with you instead of constantly using new plastic bags which can pollute nature.
  9. Avoid expensive packaged products.
  10. Do a lot of walking instead of always using the car. It consumes less fuel and is better for the environment.
  11. Power with “green energy.”
  12. Plant a tree in the garden. It filters the air, produces tons of oxygen and binds the greenhouse gas carbon dioxide.

 

Natural ways to keep bees and wasps off the terrace and balcony

Bees and wasps are also beneficial insects, and do not need to be controlled chemically – use natural alternatives for protection instead

Life shifts to the outdoors as the wonderful warm season begins. The terrace, the garden, and the balcony often replace the living room and dining room for breakfast. Nothing compares to a fresh morning breakfast start, enjoying the first rays of sun out in nature. Unfortunately, quickly pests such as wasps and bees appear, also smelling the delicious things on the patio table from afar. This can also be dangerous if they go unnoticed and fly into a glass or have contact with a food that enters the mouth.

Tips and home remedies for wasps and bees on the patio and balcony

  • Leave no open jam jars or sweets on the table
  • Use mosquito hoods for use sausage plates
  • Cover glasses and cups
  • Screw bottles or always put a closure
  • Hang wasp traps made of glass or clay with attractant (sugar water, beer, etc.) at some distance
  • Grow plants with natural repellents or plant in pots, for example, lavender, thyme, or marjoram
  • Put an orange or lemon studded with cloves on the table
  • Use a fan (insects do not like drafts)
  • Set up the evening blue light bait
  • If it is really bad, hang a summer canopy of netting and set the table underneath. This can also be very decorative

One should do without any type of chemical pesticides (sprays, plugs with pesticide, pesticide-containing candles or incense, stickers with integrated pesticide, etc.). They usually contain nerve poisons that are effective but in the long run, very harmful. Bees and wasps are also beneficial insects, and do not need to be controlled chemically. You have natural pesticide alternatives to use for protection instead.

Author: Silvia K. Müller, CSN – Chemical Sensitivity Network

Nuclear phase-out now, customers have energy options

Drawing conclusions from the nuclear accident in Fukushima

The news of the nuclear accident in Japan is incredible. The situation escalates and the Tokyo metropolitan city is at risk of serious radioactive contamination. In Germany, protests increase against nuclear power, and politicians have agreed to a moratorium, in which the life extension of some German nuclear power plants will be suspended for three months. This however is just a political move to keep the campaign positive as experts and public voices are raised. On the night of March 17th, the nuclear power plant in Phillipsburg left the network. It is uncertain what exactly will happen after the three-month moratorium when the nuclear power plants are on the grid again.

There is a legitimate growing concern in the population about the safety of nuclear power. Currently clients have the opportunity to change to a nuclear-free electrical provider at any time. They may change to a renewable energy which may help to phase out nuclear energy and even to encourage further community projects.

Nuclear power, an incalculable risk

The out of control Fukushima nuclear power plant proves unequivocally to the people that nuclear power is anything but under control. From the very beginning Japan needed international support to assist with the earthquake and tsunami damaged nuclear power plant to bring it back under control.

The news from Japan, on the other hand, brought news of rising pressure in several reactors, explosions, the drying out of the cooling tank for fuel, increasing the release of radioactivity, and the desperate battle of 50 brave people to avert a nuclear meltdown. Assistance from the U.S. and Europe were interrupted because of rising radioactivity, and thus the assistants were removed. In the meantime, the capital of Tokyo, with its 35 million residents, was told not to evacuate.

The scenario that is broadcast worldwide on news channels can cause people around the globe to faint. The question is legitimately being asked, why can’t the leading nuclear experts and brilliant scientists of Japan come up with adequate solutions to avert an absolute nuclear disaster? One must not be at the Fukushima nuclear power plant to find solutions. High technology operations can assist and offer ideas from anywhere in the world.

Total security is unrealistic

Accidents at nuclear power plants can happen in any country that uses this technology. To believe that Germany’s nuclear power plants and safeguards for emergencies are better equipped than those of the high technological country of Japan, is measured by environmental organizations, and was long ago disproved by the facts as nothing more than a wishful belief.

Green power, power without nuclear power

Germany can get along without their nuclear power plants, as specified by experts and environmental organizations. Namely Germany produces excess electricity which is sold abroad. Nuclear power plants shut down and a targeted shift to renewable energies is not a utopia, but easily doable for Germany, the leader in the world in environmental technology.

The switch to a nuclear-free option is easy and straightforward

Demand determines the market. When more and more electrical customers choose nuclear-free electricity, the power company will follow.

The current customer has much more influence than he suspects, and it is easy to change to electrical suppliers who provide green electricity produced entirely without nuclear energy. A decision can be made at any time with little formalities by the providers. Being afraid that suddenly there would be no power during the change is unfounded. The non-nuclear power company can guarantee this would not occur.

Some suppliers for nuclear-free electricity and informational websites on green

Nuclear-free green power does not have to be more expensive than nuclear power, and thus the consumer would not experience any unpleasant surprises. There are internet platforms on which to calculate the costs.

What many do not know is that the green power providers are available for the current customers. Also, electricity from different renewable resources are available to choose from, and one has the additional option to opt for providers that support social projects.

Some examples:

Verivox green calculator

On the website of „Verivox” (german) one can take a close look at prices for green power and at the same time determine charge differences between the current provider and changing to a green electrical provider.

Green Electricity Price Comparison

Nuclear-free electricity“ (german) is another platform for individuals and business customers to compare prices. One can calculate costs for one’s own electricity use.

Greenpeace Energy

The environmental organization Greenpeace has specially created a cooperative to offer green power called “Greenpeace Energy” (german) and at the same time is developing more innovative projects. One project is the hamburger “car-sharing pilot project,” using green energy-powered electric cars.

Ray of Hope

The provider “bright spot” (german) provides electricity from renewable energy sources, ensuring that electricity does not come from nuclear power or coal power plants.

There are many other providers and it is worthwhile to research the different options of renewable energy sources that power actually comes from, and one can read the interesting facts of how the different green electrical providers contribute to the local and international community and the environment.

Author: Silvia K. Müller, CSN – Chemical Sensitivity Network, March 17th, 2011

Pure Nature has completed the power switch to nuclear-free three years ago . There were no problems while switching to “bright spot”. The employees of Pure Nature are very enthusiastic in helping find ways to save energy, be more energy efficient, and whenever possible, to conserve resources.

Maintenance of untreated natural wooden tables made easy – tips from the House Fairy

Many dining room tables and kitchen and terrace tables are made of untreated wood. Its unique appeal reflects the “country style” or “bohemian” trends again.

But what is the best care for the surface of a wooden table without a painted surface?

Is wax or oil a better treatment?

Carnauba wax dissolved in water with no additives and is certainly a good alternative that leaves a clean surface. However, oils, on the other hand, often contain solvents, resins, and essential oils as additives. Thus, many friends with allergies do not like oil because of the pollutants and allergy-triggering ingredients. Particularly, those with sensitivity to chemicals would rather choose a completely untreated surface.

Pure Nature House Fairy Tips: Care of untreated solid wood tables

Wash the table after every meal with a cloth and soapy water.

What should be done to grease stains from food or water stains from a glass on the table?

No problem: Just give a little Vienna lime or other fragrant free scouring powder on a cloth or cleaning gloves and scrub the surface lightly. In no time the stains are gone and the surface is sparkling clean.

An added bonus effect: The surface of the wooden table from the fine-grained sand or lime leaves the surface quite smooth and velvety.