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Should You Be Drinking Chlorophyll? The Pros, Cons, and Science Behind the Trend

1 min read | Author - Backyard Vitality

Drinking chlorophyll water has become a viral health trend, promising clearer skin, better digestion, and more energy. But is this green elixir truly a miracle drink, or just another wellness fad?

What is Chlorophyll?

Chlorophyll is the green pigment found in plants that helps them convert sunlight into energy. Naturally present in foods like spinach, broccoli, and parsley, it’s also available as a supplement in liquid or pill form, often as chlorophyllin, a more stable, water-soluble version of chlorophyll.

Potential Benefits of Chlorophyll

Some studies suggest chlorophyll may:

  • Support detoxification by blocking harmful compounds like nitrosamines from processed foods.
  • Act as an antioxidant, reducing oxidative stress and protecting cells.
  • Improve acne—a 2014 study found topical chlorophyllin reduced acne and oil production.
  • Aid digestion by promoting gut health and potentially relieving constipation.

However, many claims—such as weight loss, body detoxification, and anti-cancer effects—lack strong scientific backing, especially in human studies. Much of the buzz is anecdotal.

The Downsides and Risks

While generally safe, chlorophyll supplements can cause side effects, including:

  • Digestive issues (nausea, diarrhea).
  • Increased light sensitivity.
  • Copper toxicity in high doses.

The Best Way to Get Chlorophyll

For a safer, natural approach, eat dark leafy greens, algae like spirulina, and other chlorophyll-rich foods. Whole foods provide additional nutrients, fiber, and antioxidants—without the risks of synthetic supplements.

Nature’s Fertilizer: Why Whale Pee is Essential for a Healthy Ocean

1 min read | Author - Backyard Vitality

Whales are more than just majestic creatures—they are essential to maintaining the health of our oceans. A recent study in Nature Communications confirms that whales act as “nutrient transporters,” moving vital elements like nitrogen across vast distances. Their urine, placentas, and sloughing skin create a powerful ocean tonic that fuels marine ecosystems.

As whales migrate between polar feeding grounds and tropical breeding areas, they distribute over 4,000 tonnes of nitrogen annually—more than natural ocean currents provide. This nutrient infusion supports phytoplankton growth, the foundation of the marine food web, which in turn sustains fish populations and coral reefs.

Whales function much like bees pollinating plants, ensuring ocean ecosystems thrive. Known as the “great whale conveyor belt,” this process helps regulate the planet’s circulatory system. Just as trees and phytoplankton absorb carbon dioxide and produce oxygen, whales distribute the nutrients that fuel life beneath the waves.

Pregnant North Pacific humpbacks, for example, gain about 14kg per day in their summer feeding grounds but burn nearly 100kg daily while nursing in tropical waters. As they metabolize their reserves, they release nutrients, enriching the ocean. Fin whales alone produce over 250 gallons of urine per day while feeding, significantly boosting marine productivity.

Decades of commercial whaling have disrupted this vital cycle. Restoring whale populations will strengthen ocean resilience, enhance biodiversity, and combat climate change. Protecting these gentle giants is not just about conservation—it’s about securing a healthier ocean for future generations.

This Green Slime Can Make Your Garden Harvest Huge

1 min read | Author - Backyard Vitality

If you’re looking for an easy – and even free – way to supercharge your garden this spring, take a tip from coastal gardeners. Use seaweed. Packed with essential nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, and trace minerals such as iron, zinc, and magnesium, seaweed is a powerhouse soil enhancer that can help your plants grow stronger, healthier, and more productive.

Beyond its rich mineral content, seaweed naturally contains plant growth hormones that promote faster root development and boost plant resilience. It also acts as a built-in pest repellent—its salty, rough texture deters slugs and other garden pests, keeping your crops safe without harmful chemicals. Simply lay seaweed around the base of plants as mulch, avoiding direct contact with stems, and let nature do the rest.

For an extra nutrient boost, try making seaweed fertilizer spray. Just soak seaweed in water for a few days to create a nutrient-rich liquid feed—perfect for tomatoes, cucumbers, leafy greens, apple trees, berries, and citrus plants.

If you don’t live near the coast, no worries! Many garden centers sell dried or liquid seaweed fertilizers. Many brands offer easy-to-use products that enhance soil microbial activity, improve soil structure, and help plants withstand drought, heat, and frost.

Whether you gather it yourself or buy it in-store, seaweed is an age-old gardening secret that can help you grow a thriving, pest-resistant garden with bigger, healthier harvests this year!

This DIY Herbal Wellness Shot Slashes Inflammation Fast

2 min read | Author - Backyard Vitality

Ginger and turmeric from the Zingiberaceae plant family have been used in traditional medicine for centuries. These potent roots offer powerful anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immune-boosting properties, making them an excellent addition to your daily wellness routine. Here are just a few of the studied benefits of this dynamic herbal duo.

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The Root That Stops a Cough in Its Tracks—Fast

1 min read | Author - Backyard Vitality

If you’re dealing with a stubborn cough that just won’t quit, you might be desperate for relief. You’ve tried cough drops, tea, and even Googled remedies in the middle of the night. But have you considered a centuries-old herbal solution that works fast? Enter marshmallow root extract—a natural remedy that can quickly soothe your throat and stop a cough in its tracks.

How Marshmallow Root Works

Marshmallow root (Althaea officinalis) has been used for over 2,000 years to treat coughs, thanks to its natural mucilaginous properties. This thick, gel-like substance coats the throat, reducing irritation and suppressing dry coughs. “Marshmallow root has been shown to decrease throat irritation and coughing,” says Dr. Bayo Curry-Winchell, a family medicine physician. Studies confirm that this herbal extract offers fast-acting relief, with many users experiencing soothing effects within just 10 minutes.

Best Ways to Take It for Quick Relief

For the fastest and most effective relief, doctors recommend:

  • Lozenges – They prolong contact with the throat, extending relief.
  • Tea – Steep dried marshmallow root in hot water and sip throughout the day.
  • Tincture – Add 30–40 drops to water and drink as needed.
  • Capsules – Take a total of 6 grams daily in divided doses.

Other Natural Cough Stoppers

In addition to marshmallow root, several other natural remedies can help calm a persistent cough:

  • Honey – Coats the throat, soothes irritation, and has antimicrobial properties.
  • Pineapple Juice – Contains bromelain, an enzyme that reduces mucus and inflammation.
  • Licorice Root Tea – Acts as a natural anti-inflammatory and throat soother.
  • Warm Salt Water Gargle – Helps reduce throat swelling and irritation.
  • Bone Broth or Warm Water with Honey – Hydrates and soothes the throat while providing essential nutrients.

Stop! Don’t Eat Those Berries Until You Do This First

1 min read | Author - Backyard Vitality

Berries are a delicious and nutritious way to boost your diet but can also carry harmful viruses like norovirus and hepatitis A. These viruses don’t naturally grow on berries but can be introduced through improper handling, particularly during harvesting and processing. While the FDA implements food safety strategies to reduce contamination, taking the proper precautions at home is essential to protect yourself.

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High Butter Prices? Make Your Own with Just One Ingredient

1 min read | Author - Backyard Vitality

The cost of high-quality butter is climbing.​ As of January 2025, the average price for standard stick butter in the United States was approximately $4.91 per pound. 

High-quality or artisanal butters typically command higher prices, especially those imported or produced using traditional methods. For instance, Kerrygold Grass-Fed Salted Pure Irish Butter is priced at $4.77 for an 8-ounce package, equating to about $9.54 per pound. 

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Simple Swaps for a More Sustainable Home

3 min read | Author - Backyard Vitality

Creating a sustainable home doesn’t require a total overhaul—just a few small changes can reduce waste, save energy, and lower your environmental impact. 

Here’s how to make your home greener with practical, everyday swaps.

Swap Out Light Bulbs

If you’re still using incandescent bulbs, it’s time to upgrade. LED bulbs last up to 50,000 hours and use a fraction of the energy, saving both money and resources. Unlike traditional bulbs, they don’t waste energy generating heat, making them the smartest lighting choice for an eco-friendly home.

Use Curtains or Cellular Shades

Curtains aren’t just for décor—they help regulate temperature and reduce reliance on energy-hungry air conditioners and heaters. Insulated or room-darkening curtains block excess heat in summer and retain warmth in winter, making your home naturally comfortable.

Install a Water-Saving Shower Head

Switching to a low-flow shower head can reduce water use by 40% or more, cutting down both water waste and your energy bill. Pair this with shorter showers for an even greater impact.

Ditch Paper Towels & Single-Use Products

Paper towels, napkins, and disposable plates create mountains of waste. Swap them for washable cloths and reusable kitchenware to cut down on paper consumption. If you’re feeling bold, reusable toilet paper is even an option!

Switch to Natural Cleaning Products

Conventional cleaners release harmful chemicals into the water supply. Instead, vinegar, baking soda, and lemon juice work wonders for cleaning, disinfecting, and deodorizing—without the toxic side effects.

Line Dry Your Clothes

Clothes dryers consume massive amounts of energy—opt for air drying instead. Whether it’s a drying rack or an outdoor line, your clothes (and the planet) will thank you.

Use Wool Dryer Balls Instead of Dryer Sheets

Skip wasteful dryer sheets and switch to wool dryer balls. They naturally soften clothes, reduce static, and speed up drying time, helping you save both energy and money.

More Ways to Green Up Your Home

Looking for additional ways to make your home more sustainable? Try these eco-friendly solutions:

Fill Your Home with Plants

Houseplants do more than add beauty—they improve indoor air quality by absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen. If you have space, consider growing a vegetable garden to produce fresh, pesticide-free food and reduce your grocery trips.

Invest in Solar Panels

While solar panels require an upfront investment, they drastically reduce long-term energy consumption and lower utility bills. Plus, many regions offer incentives and rebates for switching to solar energy.

Keep Your Fridge Coils Clean

A simple but often overlooked tip: clean the back of your refrigerator regularly. Dust buildup forces your fridge to work harder, using more energy. Keeping the coils clean helps it run more efficiently and extends its lifespan.

Harvest Rainwater

Installing a rain barrel to collect water runoff from your roof can help reduce water waste. Use the collected water to water plants, wash outdoor furniture, or even flush toilets.

Choose Energy-Efficient Appliances

When it’s time to replace appliances, look for Energy Star- certified models. These appliances use significantly less energy and water, saving money and reducing your home’s environmental footprint.

Compost Your Food Scraps

Instead of tossing food scraps into the trash, start a compost bin. It’s a great way to reduce landfill waste while creating nutrient-rich soil for your garden.

Meet Susan, your
home gardening guru!

Susan has been nurturing her gardening tips and advice for over 00 years, it’s fair to say she knows her beans. She’ll be sharing her knowledge from tried and tested methods.

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