How to Help Hay Fever With Herbs

How to Help Hay Fever With Herbs



Springtime can be especially hard for those who suffer from allergies that cause a runny nose and eyes, sneezing, coughing and other unpleasant symptoms of hay fever. Fortunately for many people, other seasons of the year do provide some relief, when pollen counts are down and other conditions are not so conducive to triggering the symptoms of a hay fever attack. Herbs can help to provide relief from the symptoms, but it is also important to eat healthful foods, get enough rest, avoid stress and keep your immune system strong.







Things You'll Need:





Flaxseed




Nettle leaf




Eyebright herb




Oregon grape root




Cleavers herb




Yarrow flowers




Siberian ginseng




Evening primrose oil capsules




Eucalyptus oil




Peppermint oil




Towel




Large bowl




Hot water









1


Add one to two tablespoons of flaxseed to your food every day to reduce your hay fever symptoms. Also include some of the following in your daily diet: cayenne pepper, ginger root, garlic, onions and horseradish. Also eat whole grains, legumes and fresh green vegetables.





2


Make a tea from the following herbs: nettle leaf, eyebright herb, Oregon grape root, cleavers herb and yarrow flowers. Combine one teaspoonful of each herb for each quart of water. Boil the mixture and then reduce the heat to a simmer for 20 minutes. Drink one cup of this tea two to three times each day before your meals.





3


Try adding Siberian ginseng to your daily regimen if you fee tired. It’s available in capsule form; follow label instructions for dosage recommendations.





4


Take evening primrose oil in capsules for inflammation. They are available at drug stores and natural foods stores. Follow label instructions for dosage recommendations.





5


Use these herbs to help with more severe respiratory symptoms: yerba santa leaf, grindelia flowers, marshmallow root and usnea lichen. Formulas that contain these herbs are available in capsules at your natural foods store.





6


Treat yourself to an herbal steam. Boil about three cups of water and then pour it into a large bowl. Drop about six drops of eucalyptus oil or peppermint oil or both into the bowl. Lean over the bowl of steaming water with essential oils, drape a towel over your head and breathe deeply one or two times each day you are suffering from symptoms.








Tips & Warnings










If it is easier for you to remember to take your herbs in tincture form, you can purchase tinctures of the same herbs listed for tea in Step 2.








Always consult a qualified health care practitioner before using any herb, especially if you are pregnant or nursing or if you are taking any prescribed medications.



http://www.ehow.com/how_4489215_help-hay-fever-herbs.html

How to help cure a sore throat

How to help cure a sore throat



This is a simple and delicious way to help speed up the recovery of a sore throat. It also help prevent one from fully forming. Honey and lemon have tons of properties that are good for one's body. So what is the secret cure? Lemon and honey!







Things You'll Need:





Lemon




Honey




Knife




Tablespoon









1


Take a lemon, wash it, and cut it in half. Make sure to take out the seeds.





2


Take a tablespoon and fill almost all the way with honey. Honey is filled with antioxidants that help fight the germs, and boosts the immune system.





3


Fill up the rest of the tablespoon with lemon juice.








Tips & Warnings










You should take this once a day, until symptoms are gone.



http://www.ehow.com/how_4419679_help-cure-sore-throat.html

How to Help Athlete's Foot With Herbs

How to Help Athlete's Foot With Herbs



You don’t have to be an athlete to get athlete’s foot. This common fungal infection is officially called “Tinea pedis” and can be very annoying, itchy and worrisome. It often starts between the middle toes and spreads rapidly if left untreated. If you have athlete's foot, you can experience scaling, flaking and itching, sometimes accompanied by blisters and cracked skin. With the help of some common herbs such as tea tree, calendula and echinacea, you can begin to experience relief quickly—at least as quickly as with over-the-counter or prescription medications.







Things You'll Need:





Anti-fungal soap




Aloe vera gel




Tea tree oil




Anti-fungal foot powder




Calendula cream









1


To prevent athlete’s foot, keep shower areas clean and try to keep your feet and shoes as dry as possible at all times. If you know that a family member has athlete’s foot, be sure to apply a disinfectant spray each time that person uses the shower. Good foot hygiene can eliminate athlete’s foot.





2


To kill the fungus, wash all socks, bedding and towels in very hot water. Change linens once each week and continue the hot water wash until the problem appears to be gone.





3


Wash your feet with an anti-fungal soap, which is commercially available. Such soaps often contain tea tree oil and can be effective in controlling the fungus that is responsible for this ailment.





4


Apply aloe vera gel to your entire foot after you bathe, leaving it on until it dries before you put on shoes and socks or bedroom slippers.





5


Wash your bedroom slippers in very hot water, with 10 to 20 drops of tea tree oil in the washing machine.





6


Purchase an anti-fungal foot powder. It will not only keep your feet dry, which is important in depriving the fungus of the moisture it needs to survive, but it can also help to heal your fungal infection.





7


Apply echinacea or calendula cream to affected areas two to three times each day. Continue your treatment after your symptoms are gone because the fungus can easily return.








Tips & Warnings










If you have old running shoes that you have worn when an athlete’s foot infection was occurring, replace them.








If your immune system is strong, you can ward off infections of this type. Eat well, get plenty of sleep and take immune boosting herbs such as echinacea or astragalus orally, in capsule, tea or tincture form, for two weeks periodically to help your immune system be its strongest.








Always consult a qualified health care practitioner before using any herb, especially if you are pregnant or nursing or if you are taking any prescribed medications.








If you don’t treat athlete’s foot promptly, it can spread to your toenails, causing a fungal infection that can be much more difficult to heal.



http://www.ehow.com/how_4473335_help-athletes-foot-herbs.html

How to Help Arthritis with Essential Oils

How to Help Arthritis with Essential Oils



Many people suffer from arthritis and the pain, stiffness, inflammation and swelling that goes with it. Essential oils are a great way to help arthritis naturally. Read on to learn what essential oils to use for arthritis as well as the ways to use the essential oils to help sooth the joints affected by arthritis.







How to Help Arthritis with Essential Oils




1


The first thing is to know what essential oils to use for arthritis and some of the things they can help with.

Black Pepper (Piper nigrum)--circulatory stimulants
Chamomile German (Matricaria recutita)--anti-inflammatory
Chamomile Roman (Anthemis nobilis)--analgesic
Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus globules)--analgesic, anti-inflammatory
Ginger (Zingiber officinale)--anti-inflammatory, circulatory stimulants, analgesic
Juniper (Juniperus communis)--eliminates toxins
Lavender (Lavandula officinalis)--analgesic
Marjoram (Origanum majorana)--analgesic
Peppermint (Mentha piperita)-analgesic
Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis)-circulatory stimulants, analgesic

Analgesic-relieves or diminishes pain





2


Once you have an idea on what essential oil(s) you would like to use, it is best to research the essential oil(s) to make sure that you don't have any health conditions that you shouldn't use that essential oil with.





3


Once you have the essential oils you would like to use, you can pick the best method of use for you. A massage oil, compress, foot or hand bath are great for arthritis located in a few joints and in small areas. If you have arthritis in many different joints or areas that are hard to put into a large bowl it's best to take a bath and rub massage oil over the entire body, that way all the joints can benefit. See tips for how to use the essential oils for different methods.





4


When the essential oils and method of use are picked start with the bath or compress. You will want the water fairly warm, make sure it's nice and warm but not hot enough to be uncomfortable or burn the skin. Soak for as long as you would like but get out before the water cools. Dry completely.





5


After the bath or compress take the essential oils mixed with the base oil and rub into the area. If the arthritis is just in a few joints or small area use the concentrated massage oil, if the arthritis is over different areas of the body use the massage oil for the full body.





6


Repeat steps 4 and 5 daily, the essential oils will help relieve the effects of arthritis. Some people will notice a difference right away and others may take some time depending on how their body responds to the essential oils and the severity of the arthritis.








Tips & Warnings










Massage oil for joints (concentrated)--for every 2 tbsp of base oil with 25 to 30 drops essential oil added








Massage oil for full body--2 oz. base oil with 25 to 30 drops essential oil added








Compress--a total of 8 drops on the compress








Full body bath--a total of 8 drops mixed in the tub with a handful of epsom salt.








Foot bath-2 to 6 drops mixed in the water with 3 tbsp. epsom salt.








Hand bath-2 to 4 drops mixed in the water with 2 tbsp. epsom salt.








Test all essential oils on the skin before use to make sure that you won't have a reaction to the essential oil, if you do discontinue use of that essential oil.



http://www.ehow.com/how_2181185_help-arthritis-essential-oils.html

How to help a sore throat

How to help a sore throat



Sick again and you do not want to pay a high doctor bill. I will give you a little secert that my dad taught me that works.







Things You'll Need:





water




salt









1


Take a glass and fill it with about 8 oz of water.





2


Next take a tablespoon of salt and put it in the water.





3


Stir it around in the water for a few seconds.





4


Now gargle the salt water until all the water is gone.





5


This will ease up on the pain of a sore throat. And it does work.








Tips & Warnings










make sure you follow the directions and do it twice a day.








This does not cure the sore throat it only soothes it.








Also it will not fight againist strep throat. For that see a doc.



http://www.ehow.com/how_2268957_help-sore-throat.html

How to Help a Hangover With Herbs

How to Help a Hangover With Herbs



The best way to help a hangover is not to drink too much alcohol. But after a big wedding reception or New Year’s Eve party, many people suffer from this malady. The symptoms of a hangover include headache, upset stomach, extreme thirst, diarrhea, and sometimes, in extreme cases, vomiting. You might experience sensitivity to bright lights and to loud noises as well. Sometimes you just want to crawl under the covers and die. None of it is pleasant and a hangover is sometimes referred to as “flu in a bottle.” When you drink too much alcohol of any kind, your liver goes into overdrive to attempt to filter out the toxins that the alcohol introduces to your system. It takes time for your body to return to normal, but herbs can help.







Things You'll Need:





Water with lemon




Ginseng root in tea, tincture or capsules




Milk thistle tablets




Ginger root




Dandelion leaf




Yellow dock root




Chicory root









1


After the party, drink lots of water. Two 8-ounce glasses of good water, with a little fresh lemon juice added, can help greatly in flushing the alcohol out of your liver.





2


If you know beforehand that you will consuming a large amount of alcohol, you can reduce the chances of a bad hangover by taking ginseng and milk thistle. You can purchase dried root at your natural foods store and simmer them in water for 20 minutes to make a tea. Or take these herbs in tincture or tablet form.





3


A tea you make from dandelion leaf and root, yellow dock root, ginger root and chicory root can help to cool and detoxify your liver. Simmer these herbs in water for 20 minutes and then drink one cup of this tea, cooled, several times throughout the day you are suffering from a hangover.





4


Eat healthy foods, like fruits and vegetables and whole grains the day after you consume a large amount of alcohol. The addition of some magnesium, in the form of a supplement, can also help. Vitamin B6 has also been used to relieve hangovers.





5


If you can force yourself to get some exercise, a brisk walk or short jog can help to get your blood flowing and bring more oxygen to your entire body.








Tips & Warnings










Know what you’re drinking and know your capacity for that particular kind of alcohol. Five margaritas might not sound like a lot, but if each one contains three full ounces of alcohol, you’re going to be sorry later.








A hangover should only last one day: if it continues longer, a serious medical condition might exist and you should seek medical attention.








If you suffer from frequent hangovers, evaluate your use of alcohol and consider quitting drinking or at least cutting down on your alcohol consumption.








Always consult a qualified health care practitioner before using any herb, especially if you are pregnant or nursing or if you are taking any prescribed medications.








Never drive a vehicle after drinking alcohol.








The old standby “hair of the dog” cure, where you drink more alcohol such as a Bloody Mary for breakfast the morning after, is not a wise idea and can make you feel worse in the long run.



http://www.ehow.com/how_4479988_help-hangover-herbs.html

How to Heal Your Body With Crystals

How to Heal Your Body With Crystals



Crystals are made up of minerals, as are our bodies. Therefore, there is a natural affinity between crystals and humans. Although they look like simple stones, crystals are anything but. Rather, they are filled with vibrating energy, energy that we can harness to heal our bodies. Many miraculous healings have been reported with the use of crystals. With a little bit of practice, you, too, can learn to heal your body with crystals. Here is how you can do that.







Things You'll Need:





1 large white quartz crystal







How to Heal Your Body With Crystals




1


Go to a quiet place, alone, where you will not be disturbed for at least 10 minutes. Stand in the center of the floor.





2


Pick up a large white quartz crystal.





3


Drop your arms down to your sides, holding the crystal in your right hand





4


Close your eyes.





5


Imagine a white light coming up from the floor.. Imagine it traveling through your feet, up through your legs, up to your stomach and through your chest. Imagine it traveling down your arms and out your hands. Imagine the light traveling out of your right hand and through the crystal. Imagine the crystal glowing with the light. “Feel” it getting warm.





6


Touch: When you feel your crystal getting almost too hot to hold, touch it to the part of your body that needs healing. Feel the heat penetrating your skin. Imagine the crystal healing your body.





7


Bring the crystal up to your face, holding it about an inch away from your eyes. Slowly move it down your body, over your neck and then over your heart and your solar plexus, your abdomen and then your pelvis. This movement will totally cleanse your chakras of any negative energy.





8


Repeat this crystal healing ritual once a week for perfect health.


http://www.ehow.com/how_2323177_heal-body-crystals.html

How to Heal With Reiki

How to Heal With Reiki



Reiki can be a powerful way to heal, whether your wounds are physical, emotional or spiritual. Reiki is like having a spiritual massage, but the power of Reiki runs much deeper. By setting an intention before each Reiki session, a person can direct energy toward the areas that need healing. Reiki is also a great way to help heal a person who has difficulty with being touched because no physical contact is required in order to receive Reiki. Here is how to heal with Reiki.







Things You'll Need:





Intention (an idea of what you would like to heal in each session)




Reiki master









1


Understand what Reiki is. Reiki is a Japanese technique to relieve stress as well as promote relaxation and healing. A Reiki master places his hands either on or near your body to channel energy into your spirit. Reiki is never harmful. Reiki is simply a flow of positive energy that has the power to heal a person’s physical, emotional or spiritual wounds.





2


Find a Reiki master. You will be working closely with your Reiki master, so try to find one that you trust. Ask yourself if you can consider opening up to this person about the areas in your life that need healing. To find a Reiki master, contact local spas or yoga studios and ask for a referral.





3


Set boundaries for where you want to be touched. Reiki does not have to involve touching because the Reiki master is connecting with your aura, which is around your body. However, some Reiki masters will touch your body lightly in various (non-private) places throughout the session. If you do not want to be touched in certain places, tell your Reiki master ahead of time.





4


Talk to the Reiki master about your issues. If you feel comfortable doing so, tell your Reiki master about the areas in your life that need healing. This will enable your Reiki master to offer suggestions for intentions and might even help the Reiki master to track your healing progress.





5


Decide upon an intention for each session. Reiki is a flow of healing energy, and that healing energy can go many places. Decide where you want it to go--your “intention”--before each session. For example, do you want to let go of past hurts or anger? Do you want to feel present in your body? Do you want to heal a physical ailment? If you cannot decide, your intention can always be “for my greatest good.”





6


Listen to what the Reiki master tells you. Sometimes the Reiki master might “see” things that speak to you. For example, he might “see” a little child curled up in a ball looking frightened. This might be your inner child needing your love and attention. Or the Reiki master might feel a lot of heat generating from your liver. This could be a sign of your need to work on processing anger.





7


Go to multiple sessions. Reiki is not going to be able to heal all of your wounds in one session. However, with repeated sessions, you will be able to heal on deeper and deeper levels.








Tips & Warnings










Sometimes Reiki releases negative energy that manifests itself by making you need to use the bathroom. Tell the Reiki master if you need to take a bathroom break during the Reiki session.








Reiki is never harmful. Reiki is simply a flow of positive energy that has the power to heal a person’s physical, emotional, or spiritual wounds.



http://www.ehow.com/how_4464505_heal-reiki.html

How to Use Herbs to Treat Crohn's Disease

How to Use Herbs to Treat Crohn's Disease



Crohn's disease is the inflammation of the small intestine and can be an unpleasant chronic condition. Since people suffer from this condition for years, they may get tired of taking their conventional medication, which can produce unpleasant side effects and search for alternative remedies such as herbs. While the effects of herbal medicine are not as dramatic, many people report an improvement of their symptoms after taking herbal remedies for Crohn's disease.









1


Eliminate harmful substances from your diet, such as caffeine, alcohol, pesticides, non-organic food and tap water. These substances can interfere with the effectiveness of your herbal treatments. Drink only bottled water.





2


Stock up on Vitamin A, which can aid the growth of healthy cells, lipase or pancreatic enzymes, which will aid the pancreas, folic acid, zinc, Vitamin B12, Vitamin D or iron.





3


Take a combination of marshmallow, slippery elm and cranesbill. You can drink these herbs in tea form and boil them in hot water.





4


Drink chamomile and licorice tea as well as aloe juice. These herbs help ease inflammation.





5


Use turmeric frequently in your cooking. Turmeric has been found to contain an anti-inflammatory agent.





6


Look for herbs that contain tannin to ease symptoms, such as diarrhea. Such herbs include green tea, oak and witch hazel.








Tips & Warnings










Be patient when using herbal medicine. You will not see an immediate effect, but you may see long-term improvement








Experiment with different herbal remedies to find the best combination for you.








Do not assume herbs do not have side effects. If you feel an herb is giving you a bad feeling, stop taking it immediately.



http://www.ehow.com/how_2093447_use-herbs-treat-crohns-disease.html

How to Use Herbs to Relieve Menstrual Cramps

How to Use Herbs to Relieve Menstrual Cramps



It's very easy to believe that all you need to do to relieve your menstrual cramps is take your favorite pain killer. Trust me, I know. That's what I used to do.

But all those pills started to take a toll on my stomach. So, I started to explore my options. How can I relieve the pain of menstrual cramps using herbs? Here's the best of what I found.







Things You'll Need:





Basil (tea)




Chamomile (tea)




Peppermint (tea)




Cramp Bark (tincture)




Ginger (tea)







My Favorite Herbs to Relieve Menstrual Cramps




1


Choose one of the herbs listed above to try when you have menstrual cramps.





2


If the herb calls for a tea, use one tea bag for one cup boiling water. You can substitute 1 teaspoon of the dried herb and 1 tablespoon of the fresh herb if you don't have a tea bag.





3


Drink one cup of tea several times a day or as needed until your cramps subside.





4


Cramp bark is an herb that seems to work better as a tincture. You can find cramp bark tincture online or at your local health food store.





5


To take the tincture, add 30 to 40 drops into a small cup of warm water and drink quickly. Do this three times a day.








Tips & Warnings










It is best to try one herb at a time to see if it works.








Once you know if an herb works, you can take more than one a day.








Make sure you tell your doctor about the herbs you are taking, just in case.








Do research on your own about a new herb before you take it so you can determine if there are any side effects.



http://www.ehow.com/how_2091457_relieve-menstrual-cramps-herbs.html

How to Use Herbs for Holistic Health

How to Use Herbs for Holistic Health



Do you want to use herbs as a holistic health strategy? Herbal nutrition is something that is easy to accomplish. Drinking gentle herbal teas on a daily basis is a great way to improve the quality of your diet. Herbal teas contain little to no calories (unless you sweeten it or add cream).

What this means is that a lot of herbs are very nutrient dense. Nutrient density is determined by considering how many calories something has versus the nutrient content.

Alfalfa is an example of an herb that is rich in vitamins and minerals. In herbal medicine, Alfalfa is used to help restore health by providing the body with extra vitamins and minerals.

Other herbs that are rich in minerals, vitamins, and antioxidants are green tea, stinging nettle, oatstraw, rosehips, lemon balm, and red clover.

Choose one or two of these herbs I mentioned up above to work with at first. You may start to notice that your body starts craving them. This is a sign that you need the nutrients that are in it.







Things You'll Need:





1 tsp. or tea bag of your herb of choice (choose from the list, above)




Boiling water




A mug




A tea strainer (only if you use the loose tea)




Sweetener (optional)









1


Bring one cup of water to a boil. Place loose herb into tea strainer and place in the cup. If you are using a tea bag, place the tea bag in the cup.





2


Pour boiling water over the herb and let the tea steep for 5 to 10 minutes.





3


Sweeten the tea as desired (optional).





4


Drink 2 to 3 cups a day or as needed.





5


You may want to repeat these steps for each of the herbs listed above for an initial tasting. Prepare all of them at once. You can take a sip or two and try to judge how your body is reacting or if you like the taste. Choose the herbs that you like the best.








Tips & Warnings










You can purchase the herbs from a natural food store, herbal shop, supplement store or online.








Make sure the herb is of a high quality. If the herb seems discolored or smells moldy, you shouldn't use it.








Always consult with your doctor before you try anything new, just in case.



http://www.ehow.com/how_2080472_boost-nutrition-herbs.html

How to Use Herbs for Healthy Liver Function

How to Use Herbs for Healthy Liver Function



Your liver is the organ in your body that gets a lot of use. If you take medication, you need your liver to process it. If you drink alcohol you need a healthy liver to help it leave the body. You also need it to help you lose weight and process excess fat. Basically, you not only need your liver for a healthy digestion, but a healthy body.

In our daily lives, the liver can really take a beating. Can you imagine if you were on strong medication, you drank alcohol, and you had some excess weight that you needed your body to get rid of? Your liver would be working overtime.

The good news is that there are some herbs that can gently and effectively tone your liver and keep it healthy. What follows is a list of helpful herbs for your liver. You can take them either as a capsule or a tea.









1


Follow the instructions on the bottle of the herb. To prepare a tea, pour 1 cup of boiling water over 1 teaspoon dried herb. Steep for 10 minutes.





2


Milk thistle is one of the best herbs out there for the liver. If you know you are going to have a few drinks, take a few milk thistle capsules before you go out. You can also take this over a longer period of time to help enhance your liver health in general.





3


Yellow dock is another herb that is good herb for the liver. This herb works best prepared as a decoction. A decoction is almost the same as a tea. But, you add the herb to the boiling water in the pan and let it simmer.





4


Burdock root and dandelion root are two more root herbs that help the liver and also need to prepared as a decoction. Follow the instructions listed above.





5


Chamomile is a very gentle digestive system herb and has a gentle effect on the liver.





6


Dandelion leaves are also good for the liver. You can pick the leaves from your lawn (only organic lawns!) and eat them in salad or you can prepare a weak tea (steep for 5 minutes instead of 10).








Tips & Warnings










Only find the highest quality herbs.








Research the herbs before you take them.








Check with a doctor before you try anything. You may have a serious condition or the herb may interact with your current medication.



http://www.ehow.com/how_2094510_use-herbs-liver-health.html

How to Use Herbs for Diabetes

How to Use Herbs for Diabetes



Diabetes is a growing problem. As the obesity rates in the United States and other countries climb, the incidence of Type II diabetes increases. There are also a lot of people who have Type I diabetes which is a condition that arises during childhood. Both may require insulin shots.

If you need to supplement your diet with insulin shots or pills, DO NOT stop. These herbal remedies are designed to help your body. It is up to your doctor to decide what dose you need to take when it comes to insulin. You may find, especially in the case of Type II diabetes, that the herbal remedies decrease your dependence on insulin. But remember NOT to change your dosage unless under the advice of your physician.

With that said, there are some herbs that have been shown to help diabetes. Choose the herbs that you want to learn about and do your own research. You should also consult with your doctor before trying anything new.







Things You'll Need:





Herbal books, magazines, and websites to do your research




Your herb of choice to take under your doctor's supervision









1


Cinnamon is an herb that has been shown to reduce your blood sugar. Just sprinkle it in your food throughout the day--up to a quarter of a teaspoon. Try it on oatmeal, in tea, smoothies or cereal.





2


Bitter melon is an herb that helps increase your body's tolerance to insulin. A popular way to take this is in capsules. But if you decide to take it, make sure that you research it yourself.





3


Milk thistle is a common herb to take for the liver, but it can also be used for diabetes to help with blood sugar levels. A popular way to take this is in capsule form.





4


Gingko biloba is an herb that doesn't necessarily treat the diabetes. However, it helps with some of the problems associated with diabetes such as poor circulation. The best way to take this is in capsules since the herb can be bitter.








Tips & Warnings










If you are serious about treating your diabetes with herbs, consider consulting with a naturopath and/or herbalist.








Don't do anything unless you are under a doctor's supervision. DO NOT alter your insulin levels yourself. This could be very dangerous.



http://www.ehow.com/how_2080492_use-herbs-diabetes.html

How to Sell Antique Precious Jewelry

How to Sell Antique Precious Jewelry



If you own antique precious

jewelry


, you may be unsure about selling these pieces. You may not know the value of the jewelry or feel uncertain about what type of establishment to use to sell the jewels. There are certain steps that you must take in order to ensure that you get the best price for your antique precious jewelry.









Step
1



Look for a jewelry appraiser in your area. Checking the local phone book is usually the easiest method to find appraisers.




Step
2



Make certain the appraiser you use is GIA certified. It may also be wise to find one that does not sell jewelry to ensure that they are giving you an accurate assessment of the jewelry's worth.




Step
3



Create a detailed description to use to sell the antique piece to buyers. It should include the approximate age, number of stones, any markings on the piece and metal types.




Step
4



Try to sell the jewelry on your own. Selling antique jewelry without the use of a third party can ensure that you make the most money. Place an ad in the newspaper or list the piece for sale on an auction site.




Step
5



Use an estate jeweler to sell the pieces for you on consignment. If the jeweler has an interested party, they will sell the jewelry on your behalf and take a portion of the sale as their commission.







Tips & Warnings









Make sure you present a copy of the appraisal when you are attempting to sell the antique precious jewelry.








It is best to avoid using jewelry stores or pawn shops for appraisals. They may not provide you with an accurate statement of the value of the pieces.








Only use a pawn shop if you are unable to sell the piece anywhere else.



http://www.ehow.com/how_2044997_sell-antique-precious-jewelry.html

How to Sell Accessories to a Consignment Shop

How to Sell Accessories to a Consignment Shop



Consignment stores are always looking for first-rate accessories. If you have scarves, handbags or costume jewelry that you no longer wear, consider consigning them to earn some extra cash.







Things You'll Need:





Vintage Clothes



Vintage Shoes



Phone Directories









Step
1



Collect all of the scarves that you no longer wear. Silk print scarves and pashminas are in demand year-round.




Step
2



Take a look at your costume and casual jewelry. Earrings and necklaces are better sellers than bracelets and rings.




Step
3



Look through your collection of day and evening handbags. Designer bags, as well as those with unique materials and trims, will attract the most attention.




Step
4



Check the yellow pages under "resale," "secondhand," "clothes" or "consignment." Call each consignment shop and ask if it consigns accessories, making appointments with those that do.




Step
5



Show items that are in good condition. Scarves should be free of stains and tears; costume jewelry free of nicks and chips; and purse handles and closures in working order.




Step
6



Have a sales associate explain the store's policy. Typically, items are kept for a period of 30 to 60 days. Non-selling items will be returned to you, while those that sell will earn you a portion of the selling price.




Step
7



Keep a record of what you consign. If you don't hear from the store, make a note to call a few days before your selling period ends. Depending on the store, you may receive cash, credit or a check.







Tips & Warnings









Some consignment stores consign hair accessories and hats. Ask about each store's specialties.








Keep your consignment receipt in a safe place. This is your only link to the items you've left behind.



http://www.ehow.com/how_17967_sell-accessories-consignment.html

How to Select the Right Perfume

How to Select the Right Perfume



Choosing a great perfume takes some experimentation and research.







Things You'll Need:





Perfume









Step
1



Research your personal taste in fragrance. Do you like to smell lemons, vanilla, roses, musk?




Step
2



Ask the woman wearing the intriguing scent of freesia what her perfume is called.




Step
3



Think of fragrances the same way you think of music: top, middle and base notes. Note that a top note is what you smell first; citrus and light spices are the first smells to evaporate.




Step
4



Focus on your favorite smells and take that knowledge to the fragrance counter, where a skillful salesperson will lead you in the right direction. Clean linens, tea, grapefruit, citronella candles, vanilla beans, or even rainwater will be hints.




Step
5



Apply a scent and wait 10 minutes. Remember to spray on pulse points, where skin is warmest, for best diffusion of scent.




Step
6



Sniff the test spot again. Still like it? Chances are you'll like it tomorrow, but keep in mind that as the top and middle notes evaporate, you're left with the heaviest oils.




Step
7



Ask for a wrapped package when you make your decision.







Tips & Warnings









Clear your nose with coffee beans while testing a lot of different perfumes; ask for one at the counter.








Some women like a cleaner, citrusy smell for casual wear, and a muskier fragrance for special occasions.








Remember that the less you expose the perfume or cologne to the air, the longer it will last.








Navigate through your choices. In order of highest to lowest concentration of oils, and therefore most to least expensive: perfume, eau de parfum, eau de toilette, eau de cologne and body splash.








Shop at a reputable store for the freshest, most genuine perfumes.








Ask a store about return policies, which can vary.



http://www.ehow.com/how_5132_select-perfume.html

How to Select the Right Length Skirt

How to Select the Right Length Skirt



It's been said that a skirt should be long enough to cover the basics, but short enough to be interesting. Depending on the person,

weather


or occasion, the right length skirt can be the most important aspect of an attractive outfit. Learn to choose the right length to enhance your look in any season.









Step
1



Consider your age. Regardless of the physical shape you're in, it is likely that a miniskirt may not look appropriate for you if you are 50, as opposed to when you were 20.




Step
2



Pay attention to the season or time of year. Shorter skirts look better in the spring and summer months than they do when it's colder.




Step
3



Examine the event at which you will wear the skirt. The more business-like the event, the more conservative you need to be. Conservative skirts should hit below the knee or lower when you are standing up.




Step
4



Think about your level of modesty. Select the skirt with the length that feels most comfortable to you. Even if you have great legs, you won't look good in a short skirt if you lack the confidence to wear one.




Step
5



Watch the current fashion trends. This season's popular styles often indicate where the hem will fall.




Step
6



Consider the shoes you want to wear. Shorter skirts or miniskirts look great with flats, while

sandals


with heels or pumps accentuate longer skirts.




Step
7



Know the style of the skirt you are wearing. Many styles and cuts should only be worn at certain lengths. Learn about the ideal lengths of various skirts at Buxom (see Resources below).







Tips & Warnings









If you want to wear a shorter skirt in the fall or winter, put on a pair of thick stockings or tights.








Many skirts can look more "wintery" if you wearing a pair of boots with them.








Unless you feel comfortable wearing a miniskirt with boots in the winter, it is better to select a long skirt that covers the tops of your boots.








Most fashion experts advise that you never select a skirt that falls at mid-calf. This look rarely works on any body type.








The length of a skirt can be undermined by the rest of a woman's outfit. For example, if her blouse is too low-cut or is showing cleavage, she may still look overexposed, regardless of how long her skirt is.



http://www.ehow.com/how_2228265_select-right-length-skirt.html

How to Select the Right Heel to Wear With a Long Skirt

How to Select the Right Heel to Wear With a Long Skirt



High-heeled shoes can enhance the look of a long skirt, but you'll need to take the time to select the right heel. Between pumps, platforms,

sandals


and wedges, ladies have a myriad of heel options to choose from and it's just as important to match your heel to your legs as it is to match it to your skirt.









Step
1



Consider the type of heels that look good with the shape of your legs, independent of the dress you're going to wear them with. Choosing heels with pointed toes can make your feet look disproportionately small if you have thicker legs. Select a wider high-heeled shoe to give the appearance of a slimmer leg.




Step
2



Select classic shoes with little to no decorative flair to wear with a long dress, particularly if the dress itself is patterned or dotted with design accessories. Wearing elaborate shoes with a patterned dress may create a conflict in the design elements. You want to draw attention to your dress, not your shoes.




Step
3



Do not combine black shoes with a long pastel skirt, unless you've also gone to the trouble of coordinating any purses or

belts


you plan to wear with the outfit. This is one example of an instance in which the old adage that "black doesn't clash with anything" can be untrue, particularly if your skirt is a vibrant pastel color.




Step
4



Leave high-heeled sandals and boots for wear with shorter skirts. Boots are not the right choice to make with a long skirt because they'll cover the portion of the leg that would otherwise show between the shoe and the bottom of the skirt. Having a little leg visible when wearing a skirt carries classic fashion appeal you can't go wrong with.




Step
5



Choose lower-cut "kitten heels" or strappy heels and remember that wearing blocky shoes will not create the right look. Long skirts tend to make the wearer appear shorter and wider, which the right set of heels will counter by adding length and slenderness to your profile.







Tips & Warnings









Your heels don't necessarily have to be all that high. In fact, opting for shorter heels can create a very attractive, classy and businesslike look for women in the professional world.








If you choose to wear high-heeled shoes that are secured with a strap, you must make sure the strap is firmly attached. Loose straps can cause you to slip and turn your heel, which may result in a painful and debilitating ankle injury.



http://www.ehow.com/how_2228099_select-right-heel-wear-long.html

How to Select the Perfect Purse

How to Select the Perfect Purse



Finding a purse in general can be rather easy but finding the perfect purse requires some thinking. Figuring out just what you want before you go find it can save you time and money! This article will give you a few tips on how to select the perfect purse for all your needs.







How to Select the Perfect Purse




Step
1



When will you use the purse most? Will it be an everyday purse? Knowing when and how often you will use it will help you pick the perfect one.




Step
2



What size do you want? Do you prefer smaller or larger purses? It usually depends on just how much you carry around with you. If you only keep a few things on you it is best to pick a smaller purse.




Step
3



What color do you want? Choosing a color can be the hardest part because if you use it for an everyday purse, you want to know that it will match your attire no matter what. If this is the case it is best to go with a neutral color or one that goes with anything.




Step
4



How much can you spend? Set a budget for yourself so when sifting through all the available purses you can sort out the ones in your budget and choose from there.







Tips & Warnings









This article is not guaranteed to work for everyone, use at your own risk!



http://www.ehow.com/how_2193341_select-perfect-purse.html