Featured

Are Your Essential Oils Safe from Phthalates?

1 min read | Author - Backyard Vitality

A recent investigation by Mamavation, in partnership with EHN, uncovered concerning levels of phthalates in essential oils. The study tested 22 lavender and peppermint essential oils from 11 popular brands and found that all contained detectable levels of these harmful chemicals.

Phthalates, commonly used as solvents and stabilizers, have been linked to hormone disruption, fertility issues, obesity, developmental delays, and even cancer. This highlights the need for consumers to be vigilant when selecting essential oils.

Finding safe essential oils is crucial for protecting your health from harmful chemicals like phthalates. To avoid phthalates in essential oils, consider the following tips:

Choose Certified Organic Oils – Organic certification ensures oils are free from synthetic chemicals and contaminants.
Check for Third-Party Testing – Look for brands that provide independent lab reports verifying purity and the absence of phthalates.
Opt for Reputable Brands – Brands like Mountain Rose Herbs, Now Essential Oils, and Plant Therapy have been found to contain lower levels of contaminants.
Avoid Synthetic Fragrances – Pure essential oils should contain only plant-derived ingredients with no artificial additives.
Select Dark Glass Bottles – High-quality essential oils are typically packaged in dark glass to protect against light degradation and chemical leaching.

How to Get Your Chickens to Lay More Eggs (#3 may surprise you)

6 min read | Author - Susan Patterson

So, you have decided to get a few backyard hens. I congratulate you on this The chicken movement is on fire, even in urban areas, as more and more people realize the benefits of having fresh farm eggs at their fingertips. Well, as long as your girls are laying, that is. Contrary to what you might think, there are a few key things to consider to ensure your chickens produce healthy and nutritious eggs consistently. Let’s take a look at how you can be sure you are always in eggs!

5 Herbal Remedies You Can Make at Home

6 min read | Author - Susan Patterson

Herbs are beautiful, edible plants that emit enticing aromas. Plus, they are highly beneficial for adding delectable flavor to outstanding cuisine and are highly prized for their therapeutic value. For thousands and thousands of years, herbs have been central in wellness elixirs, tinctures, salves, oils, teas, and more.

Plant This Next to Beans for Better Flavor

4 min read | Author - Susan Patterson

Did you know that cultivating the right combination of plants close to each other can make your garden blossom from mediocre to outstanding? Companion planting is an ancient gardening practice that has been making a comeback for one simple reason… it works. Planting a diverse mixture of plants, including annuals, perennials, flowers, and veggies, makes for a much healthier garden and, often, a tastier harvest. On the flip side, planting the wrong combination of plants can result in an unhealthy garden and a mediocre or even poor harvest.

Do This and Your Seeds Will Sprout Like Magic (Seriously, 3x Faster)

4 min read | Author - Susan Patterson

Have you ever had the disappointment of your seeds not germinating? I know that I have, and it is a real source of discouragement. Or what about those seeds that take forever just to sprout? I consider myself a patient person, but some seeds have really pushed me to my limit with their sluggish sprouting rate. Over the years, I have learned a few tricks to improve the germination rate and speed of seeds.

Surprising Signs Your Earwax Can Give About Your Health

1 min read | Author - Backyard Vitality

Earwax might not be something you think about often—until it becomes a nuisance. But did you know this sticky substance can reveal surprising clues about your health?

Far from being just an “icky” annoyance, earwax (medically known as cerumen) serves an important purpose. It protects your ears by trapping dust, dirt, and bacteria. However, changes in its color, texture, or smell can sometimes signal that something else is going on in your body.

Before you grab a Q-tip (which doctors don’t recommend), here are a few signs your earwax could be giving about your health:

A Change in Color
Healthy earwax usually ranges from golden to light brown. However, if you notice greenish wax, it may indicate an infection. Brown with red streaks might suggest an ear injury or even a ruptured eardrum. Black wax? That could indicate a blockage that needs attention.
Unusual Odor
Earwax shouldn’t have much of a smell. A strong or foul odor could be a sign of an ear infection, like swimmer’s ear. In rare cases, a sweet smell—especially in infants—might indicate a metabolic disorder called maple syrup urine disease.
Chewing Helps Keep Ears Clean
Believe it or not, your jaw plays a role in ear health! Chewing and talking help naturally move earwax out of the ear canal. For older adults or those with dentures, reduced jaw movement can lead to wax buildup.
Hearing Issues Could Be Wax-Related
If your hearing feels muffled, impacted earwax might be to blame, especially if you use hearing aids, earbuds, or earplugs regularly. Keeping devices clean can help prevent excess buildup.

Earwax may not be glamorous, but paying attention to it could give you early hints about your health. If something seems off, it’s always best to check with a professional—your ears will thank you!

Just 11 Minutes a Day: The Simple Habit That Could Add Years to Your Life

1 min read | Author - Backyard Vitality

What if you could boost your health—and even extend your life—by doing something as simple as walking? No gym membership, no fancy equipment, just you and the pavement (or your favorite park trail). According to a massive study published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine, walking briskly for just 11 minutes a day could lower your risk of early death by 23%.

That’s right—11 minutes.

Researchers analyzed data from over 30 million people and found that even modest amounts of moderate exercise, such as walking, delivered significant health benefits. Just 75 minutes a week cut the risk of heart disease by 17% and cancer by 7%.

Why is walking such a game-changer? For starters, anyone can do it. There’s no learning curve, no intimidating gym machines—just step outside and start moving. Plus, walking isn’t just cardio; it’s also weight-bearing, which supports bone health and mobility as you age.

Beyond the physical perks, a daily walk can lift your mood, clear your mind, and even help fend off conditions like diabetes. And while 11 minutes is enough to make a difference, more is always better. Think of it as a minimum, not a limit.

Looking to add more steps to your day? Skip the car for short trips, take walking meetings, or simply unwind with a stroll after dinner. No need for perfection—just consistency.

So, lace up those shoes and start small. A few minutes today could mean more tomorrows. Your heart, bones, and mind will thank you.

Conservation Milestone: Sihek Birds Return to the Wild After Nearly 40 Years

1 min read | Author - Backyard Vitality

A remarkable conservation success story is unfolding thanks to the dedicated efforts of the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden! After nearly four decades, the endangered Sihek bird—also known affectionately as the Guam kingfisher—has finally laid its first wild eggs.

Nine young Sihek, lovingly hand-raised by zoo staff, were released into their new home at Palmyra Atoll, a pristine Pacific island managed by The Nature Conservancy, located about 1,000 miles south of Honolulu. Among these pioneering birds, three came directly from the Cincinnati Zoo, including Tutuhan, the project’s celebrated first chick.

Senior Aviculturist Aimee Owen shared her joy: “This is something I never imagined witnessing in my lifetime, let alone participating in. Seeing Tutuhan—Cincinnati’s first egg, first chick, and now the first to lay eggs herself—is incredibly heartwarming.”

Since arriving last September, the young Sihek have flourished, learning to hunt, forming pairs, building nests, and now laying their first eggs. This exciting development marks the first natural breeding of Sihek since their tragic extinction from Guam in the 1980s, due to the accidental introduction of the brown tree snake.

“The immediate goal is to help establish a thriving, self-sustaining Sihek population on Palmyra Atoll,” explained Owen. “Ultimately, we dream of restoring these beautiful birds to their original home on Guam.”

While these enthusiastic young pairs are just beginning their parenting journey, hopes remain high. Experts anticipate that after gaining experience through successive nesting attempts, the Sihek will soon successfully hatch chicks in the wild.

Thanks to the Cincinnati Zoo’s commitment and care, the Sihek’s future looks bright, offering renewed hope that we can indeed bring endangered species back from the brink. This inspiring achievement symbolizes how passion and persistence can truly make miracles happen in conservation.

How to Safely and Effectively Battle Mosquitoes

1 min read | Author - Backyard Vitality

Nothing ruins a perfect evening outdoors faster than that familiar high-pitched buzz — and the itchy bites that follow. Mosquitoes aren’t just annoying; they can also carry diseases, making it essential to keep them at bay. But before you reach for harsh chemical sprays, here’s how to fight back naturally, safely, and effectively.

1. Eliminate Standing Water

Mosquitoes lay eggs in stagnant water, so your first line of defense is to remove their breeding grounds. Empty birdbaths, plant saucers, clogged gutters, or any container where water collects. Even a bottle cap of water can attract them!

2. Use Natural Repellents

Skip the chemical fog. Plant-based repellents with peppermint, rosemary, lemon eucalyptus, citronella, or lavender have been shown to keep mosquitoes away without exposing you to toxins. You can also burn citronella candles or use essential oil diffusers outdoors for extra protection.

3. Protect Your Skin and Space

When mosquitoes are most active, typically at dawn and dusk, wear light-colored, long-sleeved clothing. Install fine mesh screens on windows and doors to keep them from sneaking inside. For sleeping outdoors or in buggy areas, mosquito nets are a game-changer.

4. Strategic Planting

Certain plants, such as basil, marigolds, and catnip, naturally repel mosquitoes. Place them around patios or entryways for a green, pest-fighting barrier.

5. Fans: The Secret Weapon

Mosquitoes are weak flyers. A simple oscillating fan on your porch or deck can literally blow them away, making your outdoor space much more enjoyable.

By combining these safe, natural strategies, you can reclaim your backyard without resorting to harsh chemicals — and enjoy those summer nights bite-free.

The Fractured Case Against Eggs

6 min read | Author - Susan Patterson

Eggs for breakfast? Not anymore, according to a newly released study. A group of researchers has eggs back in the spotlight for seemingly negative health impacts. This time, they are blamed for an increased risk of developing diabetes. But… are there other factors that need to be considered? You bet there are. Also, eggs have recently been shown to reduce the risk of diabetes. Why the conflict? Let’s unpack and find the truth about this popular breakfast food.

Does Freezer Burn Hurt Your Food? When to Toss It and When It’s Still Safe

1 min read | Author - Backyard Vitality

You open your freezer, reach for that forgotten bag of chicken breasts, and—uh oh—it’s covered in white frost and weirdly discolored patches. Yes, it has freezer burn. But what does that really mean for your food?

Here’s the good news: freezer-burned food isn’t dangerous. It’s still safe to eat, but the quality might not be what you hoped for. Freezer burn happens when air sneaks into the packaging and dehydrates parts of the food. The result? Dry, leathery spots, color changes, and that unmistakable “off” texture once it’s cooked.

The bad news? That texture and flavor can be pretty disappointing. Meats may taste tough and bland, and frozen veggies might turn mushy. It’s not spoiled—it just won’t taste great.

So, when should you toss it?

Minor freezer burn on meats, fruits, or veggies? Just trim off the affected parts and cook the rest.
Severe freezer burn—if the item is shriveled, discolored all over, or smells odd even when frozen, it’s best to let it go.
Ice cream with large ice crystals or funky taste? Say goodbye. The texture’s likely ruined.

To prevent freezer burn, wrap items tightly in plastic or use a vacuum sealer, and keep your freezer at 0°F (-18°C) or below. Label and rotate foods so nothing sits in there forever.

Bottom line: freezer burn isn’t a health hazard, just a flavor fail. Don’t panic when you see it, but don’t expect a gourmet meal either. When in doubt, trust your nose. Trim the frosty bits and maybe add a little extra seasoning to make up for lost flavor!

Are Your Essential Oils Safe from Phthalates?

How to Get Your Chickens to Lay More Eggs (#3 may surprise you)

5 Herbal Remedies You Can Make at Home

Plant This Next to Beans for Better Flavor

Do This and Your Seeds Will Sprout Like Magic (Seriously, 3x Faster)

Surprising Signs Your Earwax Can Give About Your Health

Just 11 Minutes a Day: The Simple Habit That Could Add Years to Your Life

Conservation Milestone: Sihek Birds Return to the Wild After Nearly 40 Years