Eucalyptus Magazine

Local Life | Vibrant Health | Eco-Living窶、ugust 2009 | FREE

hot tea the new organic puerh tea from numi

August 2009

In Every Issue

7 Publisher’s Note 10 Calendar of Events 43 Resource Guide 46 Tidbits

EUCALYPTUS

On the Cover 14 Puerh Tea and Passion

Let Numi Lead You on a Global Journey of Health and Healing

photo by Kyle Chesser

Features 20 Tea Time 23 Natural Summer Remedies 24 Belanima provides locally-grown stress relief 28 Eco-fashion—a guide to Fall’s greenest fabrics

Departments 8 Q & A 12 Staycation 20 Path to Wellness 26 Sandbox Talk 30 Small Steps 35 Rooted on the Farm 36 Pets Corner

EUCALYPTUSMAGAZINE.COM | 5

MISSION Our mission is to educate, share knowledge, and inspire our readers to take charge of their health and wellness and to help protect the environment we all live in.

In each edition we profile a successful company or individual provider within the health, wellness, and eco-industries and provide information on local products and services that support healthy and eco-friendly lifestyles.

It is our dream that Eucalyptus Magazine becomes your first resource and companion to living naturally in the Bay Area. All of us here at Eucalyptus Magazine will do our best to help you live in harmony and to connect you with local products and services that will help you accomplish your goals.

ADVERTISE AND GROW YOUR BUSINESS Reach our affluent, well-educated, environmental and healthconscious readers who are eagerly seeking resources that will improve their health, well-being, and sustainability. For more information, please contact us at 866.797.6570 or advertising@eucalyptusmagazine.com.

EDITORIAL SUBMISSIONS We welcome your article submissions, news briefs, or calendar events at editor@eucalyptusmagazine.com.

DISTRIBUTION Eucalyptus Magazine is a free publication supported solely by our advertisers with wide distribution throughout the Bay Area.

To find Eucalyptus Magazine at a location near you, contact us at 866.797.6570 or distribution@eucalyptusmagazine.com. Let us know if you would like copies placed at your place of business.

Please support advertisers by letting them know you saw them in this publication.

6 | August 2009

ALYPTU UC Y ALL LOC ned w

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EDITORIAL Editor Michaela Marek Associate Editor Ann Mayers Contributing Writers Ann Mayers Jessica Iclisoy Becky Herbert Jennifer Moscatello Elizabeth Kang Brandi-Ann Uyemura Kristin Carey Supriya Limaye Jennifer Robertson Carolina Moore DESIGN AND PRODUCTION the Hands On Studio theHandsOnStudio.com Creative Director Kyle Chesser Design and Production Greg Silva Assistant Designer Hizuru Cruz Lead Photographer Kyle Chesser; HandsOnPhoto.com Contributing Photographer Allison Malone ADVERTISING SALES Director of Sales Jan Rowe Account Executives Angela Alexander Cari Ralstin Cynthia Wehr Megan Parker CONTACT 15559 Union Avenue, Suite 215 Los Gatos, CA 95032 Phone/Fax 866.797.6570 info@eucalyptusmagazine.com EucalyptusMagazine.com Subscription rate $36.00 per year Advertising rates on request

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Our company purchases printing services from a local Certified Green Business that has the highest commitment to keeping our environment clean.

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In keeping with our concern for the environment, Eucalyptus Magazine is printed on recycled paper with soy-based inks.

PUBLISHER Michaela Marek publisher@eucalyptusmagazine.com

O ed duc Pro rinted &P

A G A ZINE

Volume 1, Issue 2 Š2009 by Eucalyptus Magazine. Eucalyptus is a registered trademark in the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office. All rights reserved. Some parts of this magazine may be reproduced with written permission only. We welcome your ideas, articles, and feedback. Although every precaution is taken to ensure accuracy of published materials, Eucalyptus Magazine cannot be held responsible for opinions expressed or facts supplied by its authors. We do not necessarily endorse products and services advertised. Always consult a professional provider for clarification.

publisher’s note Like everyone else, I am busy with work, family, and everyday stuff, and I sometimes forget about things that are simple and healthful. When I read the article on health benefits of tea, I immediately made myself a full teapot of green tea, sat down on my couch, and kept refilling my cup. I was very inspired and remembered the old days when my grandma would make a full teapot and pour a steaming cup for herself and me. We used to drink all kinds of tea and tisanes— chamomile, nettle, green tea, black tea with lemon, linden with honey, peppermint, and lemon balm. For every kind of symptom, there was always a tea or herbal remedy. I still have the book that my grandma used to refer to when I did not feel well. I often feel that we already know the answers to the questions we have. We should remember to look back into history and learn from the past. Many herbs and natural remedies that have existed for thousands of years are still here and serve well the people who use them. So, the next time you have a headache, a stomach ache, or an insect bite, look for a natural remedy instead of a chemical. Your body and Nature will thank you.

Cheers!

kyle chesser

Michaela Marek

Publisher and Founder

EUCALYPTUSMAGAZINE.COM | 7

q&a

what’s on your mind?

Q: Why should I consider installing a solar system at my house?

by Kristin Carey

8 | August 2009

A:

Northern California residents who have lived in the area during the past decade know the inconvenience of rolling blackouts. The California energy crisis of 2000/2001 focused attention on the topic of our energy overconsumption and was a major catalyst for energy conservation. In a combined effort with California’s investor-owned electrical utilities, electric service providers, and community choice aggregators, Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger unveiled his “Million Solar Roofs” program, the goal being to procure 20% of all retail electricity sales from renewable sources of energy by the year 2017.

Installing a photovoltaic (PV) power system on your house has two extremely significant benefits: (1) It can lower your electrical bills by up to 60%, and (2) harvesting renewable energy from the sun alleviates dependence on fossil fuels, which increase toxic pollution, are nonrenewable, and are the biggest offenders in global climate change.

Through the “Go Solar California” campaign, the state offers rebates to customers in the Pacific Gas and Electric (PG&E), Southern California Edison (SCE), and San

Diego Gas and Electric (SDG&E) territories who install PV systems at their homes, businesses, farms, schools, and government buildings. Through the CSI (California Solar Initiative), cash rebates are awarded for every watt of solar energy generated by your system. You might also qualify for a 30% federal tax credit, through the Energy Improvement Extension Act, from now until December 31, 2016.

There are a few criteria you must meet to qualify for the CSI rebates, the most important being that you have an area of unobstructed sunlight on your roof or on the ground from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. year round and that your solar system is in a PG&E, SCE or SDG&E territory. These are the large investor-owned utilities; customers of municipal utilities can qualify for other rebates through their municipal service providers. Further information about PV energy and qualifying for rebates can be found at www.gosolarcalifornia.com/csi/.

Continued reliance on non-renewable sources of energy creates anxiety over dwindling fuel supplies and is a direct threat to our global climate. In early 2007, the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) concluded, at a scientific certainty level of 99%, that fossil fuels were to blame for the climate change. Average global temperatures are rising, and scientists predict a rise of 2.7-8.1 degrees by the year 2100. Switching to renewable forms of energy is a major step in the direction of combating global warming.

So, the issue is not why I should consider installing a solar system on my house, but when I should consider installing a solar system on my house. The answer is simple: the sooner the better.

and expertise they provided for writing this article.

bjรถrn kindler/istockphoto

We thank SunWize Solar www.sunwize.com for the assistance

EUCALYPTUSMAGAZINE.COM | 9

calendar

upcoming events

Saturday, August 1 / 11:00 a.m.

Edible Landscaping Tour

Saturday, August 15 / 10:00 a.m.

Your Life Is in Your Hands Seminar

Common Ground Organic Garden Supply, Palo Alto www.conexions.org / 650.938.9300 x11

The Enlightened Mind Studio, Campbell www.theenlightenedmind.net / 408.910.4257

Sunday August 2 / 1:30 p.m.

Eco Knitting 101

Sunday, August 16 / 10:00 a.m.

How to Reduce Your Carbon Footprint

Green Planet Yarn, Campbell www.greenplanetyarn.com / 408.871.9196

Ecology Center, Berkeley www.ecologycenter.org / 510.548.2220 x239

Saturday, August 8 / 10:00 a.m.

The Art of Loving Touch: Healing Ourselves and Others

Saturday, August 22 / 10:00 a.m.

Cloth Diapering 101

Yogic Medicine Institute, Campbell www.YogicMedicineInstitute.org / 408.370.9333

Saturday, August 15 / 9:00 a.m.

Volunteer: Weed and Restore Wetlands at San Francisquito Creek Palo Alto Baylands Nature Preserve, Palo Alto www.cityofpaloalto.org / 650.329.2506

Saturday, August 15 / 9:00 a.m.

Healthy Trails Challenge Hike Alviso Marina County Park, Alviso www.parkhere.org / 408.262.6980

10 | August 2009

Tiny Tots Boutique, Campbell www.tinytots.com / 408.866.2925

Tuesday, August 25 / 6:30 p.m.

Eco Tuesday—Green Business Networking Cabana Hotel, Palo Alto www.ecotuesday.com

Thursday, September 10 / 5:30 p.m.

Eucalyptus Magazine Networking Event Eulipia Restaurant, San Jose www.eucalyptusmagazine.com / 408.499.5619

BabyBuzz voted one of the Top 100 mom-owned businesses in StartupNation competition

Eucalyptus Magazine announces its first networking event, which will be held at Eulipia Restaurant, located at 374 S. 1st St., San Jose, CA 95113, on Thursday, September 10, 2009, at 5:30 p.m.

Eucalyptus invites readers, supporters, advertisers, and potential business partners to an evening of networking, fun, and education.

The featured speaker will be Leslie Lang, a local realtor, stand-up comedian, and raw food enthusiast. She will share her comedy and how her journey through breast cancer impacted her life in a positive way. Laughter and inspiration are guaranteed!

“The purpose of Eucalyptus Magazine’s networking events is to create a community of like-minded people who share the same values and lifestyle,” said Michaela Marek, publisher and founder of Eucalyptus.

Published monthly, Eucalyptus Magazine is a local health, wellness, and eco-living magazine as well as a resource guide to natural and eco-friendly living in the Bay Area.

Locally owned since 1977, Eulipia Restaurant specializes in contemporary American cuisine. For more information, call 408.280.6161 or visit www.eulipia.com To register, please send email to rsvp@eucalyptusmagazine.com

StartupNation has recently announced that BabyBuzz has been recognized as one of the top one hundred mom-owned businesses in StartupNation’s 2009 Leading Moms in Business Competition.

BabyBuzz was ranked 77th in the country, based on the votes of fellow entrepreneurs and the public. Open less than a year, the store’s success, and its devoted customers, allowed BabyBuzz to top thousands of other more established businesses across the nation. The competition, sponsored by VerticalResponse, recognizes the achievements of mothers across the country who run outstanding businesses.

BabyBuzz is a baby and toddler boutique with lounge and play area in downtown Willow Glen, in San Jose, CA. In addition to a wide selection of high quality baby gear and toys, the store hosts a range of classes and workshops for new parents. It was started by new mom and former software engineer Karen Poznansky in May, 2008. For more information visit www.babybuzzcafe.com and www.startupnation.com.

EUCALYPTUSMAGAZINE.COM | 11

news briefs

Eucalyptus Magazine’s first networking event to be held September 10 at Eulipia Restaurant

staycation

Discover the slow life in charming

Pescadero

Located just off Highway 1, the picturesque seaside town of Pescadero, Spanish for “the fishing place,� offers visitors a charming small-town feel.

Centrally located between Half Moon Bay and Santa Cruz, it is just a short drive to this tiny town of abundant offerings. With its quaint farms, rich history, and close proximity to beaches and state parks with tall Redwood trees, Pescadero is the perfect escape from bustling city life. By Elizabeth Kang

12 | August 2009

Duarte’s Tavern During the weekend, tourists and locals all flock to Duarte’s Tavern. Chances are good they are there for the famed cream of artichoke soup. This popular soup, made from locally grown artichokes, is a staple on the menu, along with fresh fish and the not-tobe-missed olallieberry pie. Food Network’s Diners, Drive-ins and Dives recently filmed an episode at Duarte’s, reinforcing the local love and transforming the casual haunt into a destination spot. www.duartestavern.com / 650.879.0464 Costanoa Want to “rough it” without all the rough stuff?

Costanoa, an “eco-adventure resort,” boasts beautiful, sprawling grounds near the ocean, flush toilets, heated mattress pads, saunas, a hot tub, and even a spa. Guests can choose to stay at the lodge, a cabin, or a tent bungalow, or to pitch their own tent on a wooden platform. Many of the outdoor activities that are available and accessible include hiking, horseback riding, kayaking, and mountain biking. Although there is a restaurant on the property, those on a budget can bring their own food to cook on the provided BBQs. $40-$350 www.costanoa.com / 877.262.7848

Half Moon Bay

San Jose

Pigeon Point Lighthouse Although Pigeon Point Lighthouse is now closed to tours, due to safety issues, it remains a historic and beautiful landmark. At 115 ft., it is the second tallest lighthouse on the West Coast. www.norcalhostels.org / 650.879.0633

Pescadero

Año Nuevo State Natural Reserve Año Nuevo is a wildlife protection area that plays host yearly to hundreds of elephant seals that come to breed in the winter and shed their coats in the summer. Many adventurous hikers make the 40 minute trek to Bright Beach and North Point daily for the rare treat of a close encounter with the seals in their natural habitat. www.parks.ca.gov / 650.879.0227

Año Nuevo

trees, map: kyle chesser; locations: elizabeth kang

Santa Cruz

Duarte’s Taavern

Costanoa

Año Nuevo State Natural Reserve

Harley Farms Goat Dairy At Harley Farms, it doesn’t get any fresher than samples of goat cheese made right on the premises.

Tours are available. www.harleyfarms.com / 650.879.0480 Phipps Country Store and Farm A visit to nearby Phipps Country Store—a unique nursery, pottery barn, barnyard zoo, and picnic area—can turn into a half-day excursion. The star attractions are the pick-your-own berries, particularly the delicious olallieberries, similar to blackberries but a bit sweeter. www.phippscountry.com / 650.879.0787

Pigeon Point Lighthouse

EUCALYPTUSMAGAZINE.COM | 13

let numi lead you on a global journey of health and healing

puerh and passion

M

More than two thousand years ago, high in the pristine mountains of the Yunnan province of China, tea traders began their journey in horse and mule caravans.

This treacherous journey, which led them down the mountainsides on narrow, winding paths and across the country on the “Tea-Horse Road,� could take several months. At the end of one of these journeys, the traders were astonished to find that the tea tasted better than it had at the beginning. During the journey, the tea had gone through a mysterious fermenting and aging process that improved its taste. Puerh tea, named after the village in which it originated, was also said to have healing powers. Today, you can drink puerh tea from

14 | August 2009

by jennifer rober tson photography by kyle chesser

Numi Organic Tea co-founders Reem Rahim and her brother Ahmed Rahim take a break in their calming Tea Garden.

these ame mountains and reap all of the health benefits of this ancient leaf, thanks to Numi Organic Tea, the Oakland-based company that is the first to introduce organic puerh tea to the U.S. market on a large scale. But that’s not all. The farmers who work with Numi are able to continue this ancient tradition while receiving fair compensation, adequate housing, and good working conditions through Fair-Trade practices.

Puerh tea is reddish in color and has a bold, complex, earthy taste that evokes memories of autumn. Like fine wine, puerh tea tastes better with age, so it increases in value over time. The process of making this tea is an ancient art form that is both complex and time-consuming. In order to make black puerh tea, the green leaves are picked and immediately sun dried for a couple of hours.

Then the leaves are taken to secret chambers where they are placed in piles and covered with cloth. The leaves must be dampened frequently and rotated, as they reach temperatures up to 140 degrees Fahrenheit in the center of the heaps. They turn black during the fermentation process, which can take as long as two months. After the leaves have ripened and dried, they can either be used as loose tea or be processed further by compression into bricks or bowls that are wrapped and then aged in cool caves for months, years, or even decades. Puerh tea is so valuable in China that families have been known to stockpile bricks of the tea, obtaining funding by selling their houses. In fact, a single brick or cake can cost hundreds or even thousands of dollars.

In addition to its unique taste, puerh tea has long been revered for its healing properties. In China, the Last Emperor’s mother claimed she cured herself of gout by drinking this tea, thereby popularizing it to the masses. Through numerous studies, modern science has begun to discover some of the secrets of the healing properties of puerh. Studies show that it reduces cholesterol because it naturally contains statin, a drug that is used in cholesterol medication. In China, it is consumed as a digestif because it helps break down fat. Dr. Brooke Kalanick, an acupuncturist and naturopath in New York City, is perhaps one of Numi’s biggest fans. She often prescribes Numi’s tea to weight-loss patients, which make up the bulk of her practice. She particularly likes the chocolate puerh, since cocoa also helps with weight loss. Puerh tea is also said to reduce bloating, increase Qi, one’s vital life force, reduce the risk of cancer, and provide a variety of other health benefits. Numi doesn’t compromise quality, so there are no oils, “natural flavorings,” or additives in any of its teas. Since tea leaves are not washed, it is crucial that the teas are also organic, because if they are chemically treated, the chemicals go straight into your cup! Numi’s organic puerh tea is a higher quality, broad leafed variety that comes from 500 year old wild-crafted trees, rather than 30-40 year old bushes, but at an affordable price.

One of Numi’s goals is to inspire people to join them on the tea journey to good health and a more easygoing lifestyle. “We are selling an experience and lifestyle infused with being creative,” explained Reem Rahim, cofounder and Chief Marketing Officer of Numi. Reem is a studio artist. Her paintings decorate Numi’s tea boxes, many of which are based on photos taken by her brother, Ahmed Rahim, who is co-founder and CEO of Numi. In addition to being a film maker and photographer, he is also the “alchemist” behind Numi’s tea. Numi’s eco-friendly Tea Garden, located in the continued on page 36

16 | August 2009

Numi: kyle chesser (2); tea fields: ahmed rahim (2)

Ancient Art and the Journey of Inner Healing

Clockwise from top left:

Numi’s organic green and black teas are picked in Fujian Province on the Eastern shore of China. The complete line of Numi puerh includes chocolate puerh as well as bottled puerh in five flavors. The organic puerh tree is approximately 300500 years old and the tea is wild-harvested in China’s southwest Yunnan province.

Visitors to Numi's Tea Garden are welcomed by the Asian-inspired entry.

EUCALYPTUSMAGAZINE.COM | 17

Enjoy the benefits of healthful summer drinks

tea time

For over 5,000 years,

by Brandi-Ann Uyemura

tea has been a popular beverage, its consumption exceeded only by water. A wealth of health benefits, such as weight loss and lowering of cholesterol, has been attributed to tea, and scientists are studying its potential to prevent diabetes, increase metabolic rate and lower stress hormones. It has sun-protecting polyphenols as well as flavanoids, which produce about 8-10 times the antioxidants found in fruits and vegetables.

Add to all that the wonderful aroma, and you have a drink that provides a relaxing and flavorful experience.

Nonherbal teas are all derived from the leaves of a single plant, the Camellia sinensis. The way the leaves are processed determines whether the tea will be black, which accounts for 75% of world production, green (23%), or oolong (2%). On the other hand, tisanes are herbal infusions made without tea leaves. These herbal teas are composed of seeds, roots, and flowers steeped in hot water, strained, and then sweetened to taste. Think cinnamon, chamomile, or mint. As with the nonherbal teas, the sedative and stimulant properties of teasans also serve medicinal purposes.

Summer is a great time to introduce kids to the enjoyment of tea. Iced tea, a refreshing change from sodas and ice cream floats, is good for you, but with much less sugar.

Oriental Beauty Flowering Tea

Carbonated Green Iced Tea Places to visit

Assorted Handsewn Flowering Teas

Puripan Tea Garden 377 Santana Row, Ste 1035 San Jose, CA 95128 408.423.8033 Cha Seng Won Tea House 3330 El Camino Real Santa Clara, CA 95052 408.246.0700

tea utensils courtesy Tea River, Los Gatos

18 | August 2009

Tea River 481 N. Santa Cruz Ave. Los Gatos, CA 95030 408.354.6069

3 cups of filtered water 3 teaspoons of loose jasmine-oolong tea Chilled lemon-lime soda Thinly sliced lemon, lime, or orange to garnish 1. Bring the water to a gentle boil in a small saucepan. Add the tea, cover, and remove from heat. Let steep for 4 minutes.

2. Strain the tea and pour the tea concentrate into a 2 1â „2 quart heatproof pitcher.

3. When ready to serve, divide the tea among 6 tall glasses filled with ice. Top with soda and garnish with a fruit slice.

caffeine and tea

Tea is rich in polyphenols, tannin, flavanoids, fluorine, and vitamins B, C, and K. Although teas contain caffeine, the amounts are far less than those in coffee and produce a softer, beneficial effect. Tea is known to banish fatigue, stimulate mental powers, and raise energy levels.

matcha

Approximate caffeine content per 8 oz. cup: Black tea 75 mg Green tea 50 mg Oolong tea 60 mg Coffee 175 mg

Matcha Float

osmanthus green

2 teaspoons Matcha green tea 1 ⁄2 cup of hot water 5-6 ice cubes 1 ⁄2 cup cold milk 1 scoop vanilla ice cream 1. In a tall glass, mix the Matcha and hot water, and stir briskly until the paste becomes smooth.

2. Add ice cubes and pour milk slowly over them.

3. Top with ice cream.

Health Benefits

Recipe courtesy of www.aoitea.com

Iced Mango-Ginger Green Tea

5 cups of filtered water 4 sachets of Biodynamic Mango Ginger Green Tea by Zhena’s Gypsy Tea Ice and thinly sliced ginger, mango, or orange to garnish 1. Bring filtered water to a gentle boil in a small saucepan. Add the tea, cover, and remove from heat. Let steep for 4 minutes.

2. When ready to serve, divide the tea among 4 tall glasses filled with ice. Garnish with fruit slices and ginger.

jasmine oolong

n The moderate caffeine level in tea stimulates the central nervous system and promotes blood circulation. n Tea acts as a diuretic, promoting better kidney function, and aids digestion. n Researchers at the University of California, Berkeley, found that green tea was the best antioxidant scavenger of deadly free radicals. n Camellia sinensis is known to have some antiviral and antibacterial effects. n While reducing the LDL (bad) cholesterol, tea elevates HDL (good) cholesterol. n Research indicates that green tea protects against numerous types of cancer. n According to dental research, the tannin and fluoride present in tea help prevent tooth decay.

EUCALYPTUSMAGAZINE.COM | 19

path to wellness

Back to the Gym!

It’s almost time

to tuck away those tank tops and shorts. All signs point to the end of the season, but while summer is taking a hiatus your exercise routine doesn’t have to. Here are a few ways to get yourself back to the gym after three months spent outdoors. (Always consult your physician before starting any exercise routine.)

Warm up to the gym by taking advantage of complimentary evaluations, which generally include a review of proper use of equipment and assistance in determining your goals for achieving fitness. If you don’t have a gym membership, find out which gyms are in your area and ask if they have any complimentary trials or discounts available. Club One, for example, prevalent in the Bay Area, gives potential members three free days to try them out.

John Castaneda, Assistant General Manager of Fitness for the Courtside Club in Los Gatos, recommends working with a personal trainer. Whether you’re a novice or an experienced gym fanatic, trainers help you build a strong foundation for achieving optimal results. Other benefits include support and accountability, both of which are great motivators for getting into tip-top shape.

20 | August 2009

It is easy to get carried away when you first start exercising, but doing too much at the beginning is a sure-fire way to burn out.

Instead, set achievable goals for yourself. Opt to start exercising two or three days a week. As you get more comfortable, you can gradually increase the length and frequency of your workouts.

Keeping yourself motivated once you start is imperative for making exercise an important part of your life. One way is to determine what kind of exercise you like best. The more you enjoy it, the more likely you will do it. Also, remember to stretch. Muscle aches following workouts often keep exercise newbies from returning to the gym. To prevent muscle soreness, drink lots of fluids and stretch before and after your workout as part of your regular routine.

There are a number of ways to add pizzazz to mundane workouts.

The Courtside Club in Los Gatos offers wine tasting classes, but if you need more than the lure of wine tasting to get you going, here are two hints: Bringing a buddy along makes exercise fun, and studies have shown that the duration and intensity of workouts increase when people listen to fast-paced music. Just remember to start slowly, have fun, and stretch.

kyle chesser; location: the right stuff health clubs

By Brandi-Ann Uyemura and elizabeth kang

Summer is in full swing, and people are celebrating with cookouts, hikes by the ocean, and picnics in the park.

These seasonal delights are frequently accompanied by seasonal ailments, such as indigestion, poison ivy, sunburn, and insect bites.

Drug store shelves are full of medicines that suppress symptoms but often cause unpleasant side effects. What if there were safe, effective, natural solutions to the problems—remedies that could ease symptoms and, with chronic issues like allergies, make future bouts less severe and less frequent?

Homeopathy may well be the solution. Based upon the principle of “like cures like,” first noted by Hippocrates, the term “homeopathy” was coined by German physician Samuel Hahnemann in the late 18th century. Hahnemann carried out detailed research to develop homeopathy into a comprehensive system of healing that, by using natural remedies derived from minerals, plants, and animals, gently stimulates the body to heal itself. Rather than camouflaging symptoms, as traditional pharmaceuticals often do, homeopathy treats the root cause of the problem.

You can use homeopathic remedies, many of which can be found in your local health food store, to treat mild afflictions yourself. The effectiveness of a remedy is determined by whether the symptoms of the illness match the symptoms of the remedy; the right combination will strengthen the body’s natural healing defenses. As there may be several potential remedies for a given ailment, care must be taken in selecting a treatment to ensure its efficacy. Take one dose and wait for a response; take more only if there is no improvement or if symptoms return. If you’ve taken three doses without relief, select a different remedy. Here are suggestions for combating common summer complaints: n Hay fever—Allium cepa n Bruises and sore muscles—Arnica n Insect bites and jellyfish stings—Apis mellifica n Sunburn—Cantharis n Muscle cramps and sprains—Rhus toxicodendron n Cuts and burns—Calendula n Poison ivy or oak—Rhus toxicodendron n Indigestion—Pulsatilla For chronic health problems, you may benefit from professional advice. Professional homeopaths have access to a wider range of remedies than are available in health food stores as well as the training and experience to determine the best remedy for you.

natural summer remedies

by Jennifer Moscatello and Deborah Hayes CCH, RSHom(NA), MBRCP(H), CCHH

Finding a Homeopath

These organizations have lists of qualified practitioners: National Center for Homeopathy www.nationalcenterforhomeopathy.org Council for Homeopathic Certification www.homeopathicdirectory.com About Deborah Hayes

Deborah has been practicing homeopathy for 8 years. She is a certified, registered homeopath seeing patients of all ages with a variety of health issues in her Mountain View office. She can be reached at www.realhomeopathy.com.

Calendula (Calendula officinalis) is very healing to the skin and has proven itself profoundly useful in wound care.

EUCALYPTUSMAGAZINE.COM | 21

Local Luxury Belanima provides locally-grown stress relief by c a r o l i n a m o o r e | p h o t o g r a p h y by kyl e c h e ss e r

22 | August 2009

It has been a long, hard day. Whether your next step includes sinking into the couch or whipping up dinner and powering through several loads of laundry, you’re in desperate need of rejuvenation. For both women and men, there is a luxurious and eco-friendly way to lift the tension of your day: Belanima Awakening Body and Face Mist. A few sprays of this combination of 100% organic, therapeutic essential oils of orange, peppermint, cinnamon, and ginger will give you a burst of energy that feels more clear and refreshing than any cup of coffee.

Belanima has many other luxurious treats, a favorite being the lavender eye mask. While

above: Quinn Cao created belanima luxury bath and body products to relax and rejuvenate the body with the benefits of being eco-friendly. Below: Belanima uses quality natural ingredients including cinnamon, almond, rose, lavender, and Himalayan salt.

the perfect weight of the lavender cocooned in satin melts the stress from your eyelids, the rest of your body is overcome by peace and calm as the lavender scent surrounds you. The mask contains only lavender and can be used hot or cold. Take it on a trip, and it doubles as a sachet in your suitcase.

Quinn Cao founded Belanima to help us remove the mantle of daily stress while supporting our desire to buy green, buy local, and receive the best quality. Her all-organic products help to relax or rejuvenate the spirit while treating us to well-earned luxury.

Belanima is Italian for “beautiful soul,” If a company’s soul is its products, this is unquestionably true. From the beautiful jars and EUCALYPTUSMAGAZINE.COM | 23

bottles, for which most of the labels are printed on 100% recycled paper, to the scents and textures contained within, Belanima is accessible luxury brought to you in little glass jars.

In 2005, after failing to find fulfillment as a consultant in investment banking, Quinn Cao took a leap of faith and invested in herself.

This was not a blind leap, for Quinn has a business degree from the University of the Pacific. She used her education and the support of her mentor, Mark Plovnick, Dean of the UOP Business School, to ensure a sound investment.

First, she worked for a friend for what she calls “a brief moment,” learning the A to Zs of manufacturing. Then, she used her savings and the connections she had made living in the US, Europe, and Asia to found Belanima.

Belanima’s line of bath and body products includes Bath Teas, which have been a hit. Sweet Dream Bath Tea is made with organic rose petals, lavender flowers, chamomile, and therapeutic grade lavender essential oil. This soothing combination prepares you for deep and restful sleep.

Other popular products are the Lustrate bath, lavender fabric softener, soy candles, and soaps designed for men.

Using organic yellow mustard harvested in Napa, the Lustrate bath draws out impurities and warms your muscles. Mustard is known for its stimulating and cleaning qualities, as are the Epsom salts and Dead Sea salts used in this bath treatment, which also includes buttermilk, pure Atlantic sea salt, and therapeutic grade essential oils of orange and rosemary. As your muscles are relieved, your mind is calmed.

Lavender fabric softener infuses your clothes with a calming scent, even after using the same sheet for the 10th time.

All of the company’s candles are made from soy, making them cleaner and longer burning than their paraffin counterparts, which release the petrol-carbon soot that can add carcinogens to the air. Soy candles are also biodegradable and, being made from soybeans, do not deplete the earth’s nonrenewable resources.

Products to soothe a man’s soul and skin include the Goat’s Milk and Almond Soap and the organic Dead Sea Mineral Soap.

All Belanima products can be purchased individually or as gift packs from the Belanima website. You can find a gift pack that suits the occasion, such as “medical package,” an ensemble of Belanima’s most relaxing products: bath tea, relaxing mist, travel candle, and eye pillow.

“You should have your body and mind enriched with healthy thoughts as well,” adds Quinn. To support this, she has created an extensive website, which includes not only Belanima products but, also healthful recipes, fashion and make-up tips, and experts answering health and beauty Belanima’s therapeutic “medical package” gift set is stocked with bath tea, relaxing mist, questions. The site is updated regularly, offering a pure soy travel candle, and eye pillow to soothe the body as well as the soul. new experience for return visitors.

Quinn says the key to her success is “my family She began with a line of bamboo clothing—shirts and blouses. The and the people I work with. I’ve been so blessed.” Her parents, husline was purchased by a Japanese home shopping network. In 14 band , and brother have supported her, and Belanima gives back. minutes, Belanima had sold an astounding 4,000 articles of clothQuinn’s father is a dentist, and a portion of Belanima’s profits go to ing—an undeniable success. This relationship continues, as Belanima the San Francisco State Dental Program, providing scholarship asmanufactures an exclusive line for the television station. sistance for students who come from underprivileged backgrounds.

Success abroad wasn’t enough, though. “It is a continuous jourQuinn has achieved success through her hard work and perseney,” Quinn says of running a business. Having re-invented herself, verance. Though she has a mind for business, she has a heart for she set out to re-invent the company. Quinn’s favorite Winston people, those who purchase Belanima products and those who have Churchill quote is “Success is never final; failure is never fatal; it supported her and the company. “I’d love to take my family, friends, is courage that counts.” Expanding a company from clothing into and those who have helped me out together,” she says. Always bath-and-body is, indeed, an exercise in courage. interested in the health of the body and soul, she adds, “Maybe to a Although she was born in Vietnam and has traveled the world, yoga class.”

Quinn feels that the Bay Area is her home, and she is dedicated to An adventure that has found a new beginning, Belanima is a work supporting the local economy. All Belanima products are made from of love for Quinn as well as a lot of work. Regardless of the long local, organic ingredients and are packaged here. Even the soaps hours and self-sacrifice, when asked if she would do it all again, are not mass produced; they are made in Napa and then hand cut Quinn answers with conviction, “100 percent.”

For more information, please visit www.belanima.com and individually packaged.

24 | August 2009

Pick up a copy at many locations in Santa Clara County including: • Whole Foods Markets in Los Gatos, Campbell, Cupertino, Los Altos, and Palo Alto • Select bookstores, including Kepler’s, Barnes & Noble, Borders, and Books Inc. • Santana Row • Local libraries • Locally-owned retail stores • Health clubs and yoga studios • Spas, wellness centers, and medical offices • Restaurants, coffee shops, and juice bars • And many more!

For a location near you, send an email to distribution@eucalyptusmagazine.com or call 866.797.6570

EUCALYPTUSMAGAZINE.COM | 25

sandbox talk

hand washing

101 Clean and green sudsing habits for keeping your kids—and the environment— healthy.

As parents,

there are only so many things we can routinely nag our kids about before they completely tune us out. Lately, I’ve been cutting back on “Clean your room” and “Stand up straight,” limiting myself to “Wash your hands.”

When the H1N1 swine flu started popping up in California this spring, we heard again and again just how important it is to wash our hands regularly to prevent the spread of this disease. While much of the pandemic panic has subsided, hand washing is no less important now than it was then.

Every major health organization encourages routine washing with soap and water, noting that it is one of the best ways to avoid getting sick. Many illnesses are spread through handto-hand or hand-to-surface contact. By spending just 20 seconds washing their hands, your kids can kill most of the germs that cause these illnesses, from the common cold to nasty gastrointestinal disorders.

Before you stock up on soap, though, you should know that not all suds are created equal.

While many parents think strong antibacterial washes are best, studies have shown they are no more effective than regular soap and water for killing germs. The overuse of antibacterial agents has been linked to the development of “superbugs,” dangerous bacteria (MRSA, for example) that are resistant to antibiotics. In addition, such ingredients as the commonly used Triclosan kill off good bacteria that kids need for keeping them healthy.

Fortunately, there are plenty of effective, green cleaning substitutes. Dr. Jean Valnet of France and Dr. Andrew Weil of the U.S. note that essential oils are valuable as antiseptics, because they are tough on germs, yet gentle on skin. Tea tree oil is one of the best; its benefits are well researched and it is used extensively, particularly in the plant’s native country of Australia. A lesser known oil with a funny name, Ravensara, is also an effective natural antibacterial agent.

When it comes to making sure your kids are washing correctly, nothing beats teaching by example, and washing up with them regularly allows you to supervise their cleansing routine.

You can place hand washing reminders at eye level in the bathroom, and make the sink accessible to those with shorter legs by providing a step stool. My favorite way to make sure they wash for the recommended 20 seconds is to have them sing the ABC song or “Happy Birthday” while lathering up. It sounds hokey, but just a few extra seconds at the sink can prevent hours each year at a doctor’s office, which is enough to make any parent sing!

sensitive adults. Visit her website at www.californiababy.com.

by Jessica Iclisoy 26 | August 2009

allison malone

Jessica Iclisoy is the founder of California Baby®, a natural skin care line for babies, kids and

BE VEG. GO GREEN. SAVE THE PLANET

Vegetarian House

Organic Vegan Restaurant

Compassionate Food For a Healthy Planet 520 E. Santa Clara St. San Jose, CA 95112 408.292.3798 | www.VegetarianHouse.us

You Are Invited!

People!

Party!

Prizes!

Eucalyptus Magazine invites you to When: Thursday, its first community networking event! September 10, 2009

at 5:30 p.m.

Where: Eulipia Restaurant Please join us for this special evening of

374 S. 1st St. networking, fun, and education! While you enjoy complimentary appetizers and a San Jose, CA 95113 Cost: Free cash bar, you can meet and mingle with people behind the scenes of this new

Featured Leslie Lang, magazine,advertisers, readers, and support Speaker: local stand-up comedian ers. Come and meet like-minded people!

Please RSVP by September 9 to rsvp@eucalyptusmagazine.com For more information, visit us at vwww.EucalyptusMagazine.com

EUCALYPTUSMAGAZINE.COM | 27

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eco-fashion

a guide to fall's greenest fabrics

By Jennifer Moscatello

When I was a child, September was filled with excitement: a new school year and a new wardrobe. I still look forward to autumn as a transformational time. Recently, however, I’ve started looking at clothes in a new light. As my interest in all things green has evolved, it has extended into the realm of clothing. Eco-clothing.

What is eco-clothing? As a concept, it’s about selecting clothes that are produced in an environmentally friendly way. Whether they’re made of sustainable or recycled materials, eco-fabrics fill a niche in our goal of preserving the earth.

They’re fairly traded and, ideally, locally sourced. Choosing organic means that fabrics are cultivated without chemicals. It’s also important to consider the manufacturing process—is it harmful to the fabric, or the earth, or the workers?

As eco-fashion is becoming mainstream, designers are experimenting with sustainable fabrics and offering increasingly stylish options. At the same time, consumers are recognizing that everyday choices have a considerable impact on our environment; we have the power to change the world simply by opening our wallets. With autumn approaching, we have the opportunity to reinvent ourselves, this time as stewards of the earth, and all without sacrificing an ounce of our personal style.

1. Fabric: Organic cotton What it is: Cotton grown without the use of pesticides, herbicides, and fertilizers.

Why it’s a good choice: Renewable, biodegradable, and nontoxic; sustainable farming methods reduce pests, improve growth, conserve soil quality, and protect the people working in the fields.

2. Fabric: Bamboo What it is: Natural fiber with a soft, silky drape; made from bamboo pulp.

Why it’s a good choice: Biodegradable; grows rapidly; requires no pesticides.

3. Fabric: Hemp What it is: Coarse and durable, this linen-like fiber is made from the Cannabis plant.

Why it’s a good choice: Biodegradable; grows quickly in a variety of climates; requires no pesticides; controls erosion of topsoil.

4. Fabric: PET What it is: Man-made fiber from recycled plastic bottles; often used to make fleece.

Why it’s a good choice: Reduces landfill refuse; can be reclaimed; readily recycled.

product samples courtesy BabyCoo and Green Planet Yarn

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5. Fabric: Organic wool What it is: Untreated fiber from sheep raised on organic feed; produced without chemicals.

Why it’s a good choice: Renewable; biodegradable; supports sustainable farming.

6. Fabric: Alpaca What it is: Natural fiber from the alpaca; hypoallergenic; stronger and lighter than wool; finer than cashmere.

Why it’s a good choice: Nontoxic; renewable resource.

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Where to find stylish eco-attire Whether you’re shopping for yourself or your preschooler, you can find an assortment of chic brands at these stores: Anjou Boutique - www.anjouboutique.com Babycoo – www.babycoo.us Dash Hemp - www.dashhemp.com Green Planet Yarn – www.greenplanetyarn.com REI – www.rei.com EUCALYPTUSMAGAZINE.COM | 29

lunch bags

Change lunch bags.

Alternatives to paper lunch bags have come a long way! Cloth bags are easily washed in the event of spills, and insulated lunch bags offer the versatility of keeping food either hot or cold!

Reusable bottle

Switch to a reusable water bottle or cup rather than buying water bottled in plastic or using disposables. It is estimated that a plastic bottle thrown in the trash will stick around for about 70 years! However, make sure your reusable bottle is BPA free.

Reusable containers

cloth napkins

Use cloth napkins instead of paper napkins. You will be participating in rainforest conservation, and you will save money in the long run!

Stock up on reusable containers. They come in all shapes and sizes and are a fantastic alternative to plastic bags, especially when you consider the diversity of foods to be stored: soups, casseroles, fragile sandwiches, etc.

Switching to sustainable lunch products, such as containers and cloth bags, isn’t just good for the environment; it’s great on the ol’ pocket book as well! According to the Stanford University Recycling Center, the average family can save up to $2,000 a year by avoiding disposables and individual serving sizes, and getting started may be easier than you think! B y K r i s t i n C a r e y 30 | August 2009

kyle chesser

small steps

green your lunch

EUCALYPTUSMAGAZINE.COM | 31

Local & Holistic Resources for healthy living in your community

Yogic Beauty Ultrapure ~ Beyond Organic ~ Body and Skin Care

Beauty Secrets from the Himalayas for Radiance & Clarity www.YogicBeauty.com / 408.355.5562

InnerSuccess Transformations 20688 Fourth Street, Suite 8 Saratoga, CA 95070 www.InnerSuccess.com / 408.358.3756

All our rare & exquisite products are lovingly handcrafted in small batches from the highest quality ingredients.

Ayurvedic Diet & Lifestyle Consultations, Pancha KarmaDetox Therapies & Yoga Therapy for internal and external vibrant health & beauty.

Rayna is a Holistic Marriage and Family Therapist, Hypnotherapist, Psychospiritual Energy Healer and Workshop Facilitator. She empowers individuals, couples, and families to live joyful, authentic and abundant lives by healing core issues on all levels, mentally, emotionally, physically, and spiritually.

Steven E. Smith

Tina Deane, CMT

Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist

Inside and Out Body Therapy

409 E. Campbell Ave., Suite 220, Campbell, CA 95008 www.theenlightenedmind.net / 408.910.4257

Located in Los Gatos www.InsideAndOutBodyTherapy.com / 408.348.8462

Holistic therapy and counseling for emotional & spiritual health. Individuals, Couples, Men's Groups, Workshops.

Heal, grow, and learn to experience more freedom, joy, love, and abundance.

Specializing in targeted therapies customized to your individual needs. Get relief from your pain and stress. Therapeutic Massage *Sports Massage Thai Massage * Energetic Bodywork *Reiki promoting wellness inside and out.

32 | August 2009

EUCALYPTUSMAGAZINE.COM | 33

34 | August 2009

Summer, for me, means the peak of tomato season. Only vine-ripened can bring on euphoria when consuming. Small ones that pop in your mouth upon bite, plum ones for sauces, heirloom varieties eaten best with a splash of olive oil and vinegar or a drizzle of pesto atop a piece of crusty bread.

My love for tomatoes has been rooted in my life since I was about a foot taller than the tomato beds I sauntered through on Sunday afternoons when Dad would take a drive to his fields to see how the crop was doing. While most kids squirmed at the thought of a tomato, I spent the trip searching for the biggest, ripest piece of fruit I could find while Dad sought out signs of disease or insects that would affect the crop.

I would snatch my tomato of choice off the vine, its skin warm in my hands. Ignoring the green stains from the plants lining my pant legs, I sunk my teeth in to the piece of fruit, its sweet juices exploding in my mouth, the juice dripping down my chin and on to my shirt.

Later, when Dad stopped growing dozens of acres of tomatoes, my Grandpa would stop at the local farm stand and buy several pounds for all of us to share. While he ate his cut in half and drizzled with salt, we took ours home and made tomato sandwiches with them.

Now that I run a CSA program that delivers hundreds of pounds to customers each week during the season, I am left with dozens of pieces of fruit that are not deliverable because of a slight split or a bruise on its flesh. With them I make several batches of tomato sauce, but the most enjoyable way to eat them is with pasta using a quick, no-cook sauce.

Bruschetta Pasta 1 pound linguine 4 medium tomatoes 1 ⁄2 cup fresh basil 3 tablespoon oregano 1 ⁄2 cup olive oil 1 ⁄2 teaspoon red pepper flakes 1 ⁄4 pound mozzarella cheese 3 cloves garlic, chopped 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar black pepper 1. Boil a large pot of water and cook the pasta according to package directions.

2. Dice the tomatoes and the mozzarella into small chunks, and chop the basil. In a large bowl, combine those ingredients with the olive oil, red pepper flakes, garlic, balsamic vinegar, and black pepper. Toss well to combine and set aside until the pasta is cooked.

3. Drain the pasta when it is done and place it back in the pot. Add the tomato mixture and toss well to combine. You can heat this on the stove if you prefer it warm.

By Becky Herbert

EUCALYPTUSMAGAZINE.COM | 35

rooted on the farm

Tomato Season Brings Euphoria to the Kitchen

By kristin carey

Summer is a great time of year to include Fido on family outings and walks, but it can be daunting for pet owners if their dog is the one who wears the pants in the family. Nobody is the “proud parent” of an unruly dog! Trainer Anna Morey Seekamp shares her expertise on how to train your dog to politely greet people, so your outings with the whole family can be enjoyable for everyone!

When embarking on this training exercise, it is important to find a friend who will be a patient and willing participant. You might have to bribe your friend with lunch, but it will be worth it! You also need plenty of small dog treats and a 6’ leash.

Begin by asking your friend to stand about 20’ away from you and your dog. Get your dog’s attention by asking him to look at you, and then reward him with a treat. By making your dog “check in” with you, you are telling him that you are the boss and his focus needs to be on you, not on others. Dogs learn through repetitive behavior, so consistency in your training is the key. Be prepared to repeat this exercise numerous times before your dog begins to catch on. The goal is that your dog will sit when someone approaches to greet you and/or him.

After you have your dog’s attention, begin walking toward your friend. If your dog begins to pull on the leash or loses his focus on you, turn him around and walk back to the starting point. Begin the process again by asking him to sit and to look at you, and then reward him with a treat. After you are able to successfully approach your friend, ask your dog to sit, and then greet your friend. If your dog stays seated, reward him with a treat; have your friend reward him by petting him. If he jumps up, say “too bad” and turn your dog around and walk back to the start. Do not tug on his leash, as he will associate this reaction with the

36 | August 2009

greeting process. Repeat the exercise, using treats, until he understands that he is to stay seated through the greeting process.

Again, the key in all training exercises is repetition. Undoubtedly, training requires a lot of treats. To insure the health and well being of your dog, use organic or natural brands such as Dr. Becker’s Bites, Daisy’s Delights, Dogchewz NYC “Toy” Temptations®, or Evanger’s Jerky Treats. You can find these products online or in fine pet stores or pet boutiques. If you’re in the area, try Dog Town in Palo Alto, Plaza de Paws in Burlingame, or Molly’s Pup-Purr-ee in Danville. Happy training!

For further training tips visit www.annathedogtrainer.com, or www.ourpack.org.

madeleine openshaw/istockphoto

pet’s corner

Teaching your dog to greet people politely

EUCALYPTUSMAGAZINE.COM | 37

continued from page 15

heart of Oakland, is a physical testament to the creativity and sense of community Numi is working to instill in its followers. The Tea Garden is decorated with some of Reem’s original paintings, and Ahmed not only decorated the furniture with mosaics from reclaimed tile but also designed the entire space. Rather than ordering at a counter and being given tea in a paper cup, you will have an experience that fits the venue. A server will come to your table, educate you about the vast array of teas offered, and ceremoniously serve your tea on a bamboo tray. Tea classes are also offered at the tea garden, and Numi’s web site offers a way for its followers to learn and share, including web-based tutorials, videos, newsletters, and blogs. In the near future, Numi plans to partner with a small, local school or a charter school for inner city kids that will focus on artistic discovery and an understanding of what it means to live in a sustainable world. “Numi has a deep, self-reflective quality and spirit of generosity that is tied in to our tea,” said Reem. “Tea is about sharing.”

The Tea Journey Today: Healing Our Global Community through Partnership Since the United States doesn’t grow tea, it has to be imported. “Just transporting tea from these remote, high mountains is quite an incredible journey,” explained Ahmed.

“I feel like I’ve almost died five times just visiting the tea gardens.” You still have to go through mountains on dirt roads, so “the journey can be quite breath taking on many levels. One slip and you are off the cliff!”

Providing high quality organic products that are also fair-trade adds to the complexity and excitement of the journey. For example, when Numi decided to be the first in the U.S. to offer flowering teas, Reem and Ahmed traveled to China to learn more about the farmers who would potentially supply the tea. With a translator’s help, they learned the touching story of one of the farmers, then thirty-one years old. He grew up in a very poor, remote village in northern China, where people did not have adequate housing or access to modern appliances. Through determination, sacrifice, and hard work, he achieved his success by starting little tea nurseries. The government took notice and gave him a large piece of land for growing tea, but there weren’t any roads leading up the mountain. He brought 38 | August 2009

Puerh tea has long been revered for its healing properties. in hundreds of poor people from his village by telling them that if they moved to the south to help him build roads, he would take care of them. Now, when you drive up the mountains, you see their newly-built houses adorned with satellite TV dishes. “He’s like the living God,” said Ahmed. “You have living heroes like that, and you decide you want to partner with them.”

When you buy Numi’s tea, you are joining them in these global partnerships, and you are also doing your part to take better care of our planet. Numi not only offers organic, fair-trade teas, but their products are packaged using biodegradable, sustainable materials, such as bamboo and postconsumer waste. “If we took away organics, quality, fair-trade, and sustainable, we could put A LOT of dollars in our back pocket... easy,” said Ahmed. But he and his sister started Numi to do more than just make a profit. They want to revolutionize the world of tea and serve as an example to companies that want to make a positive impact on the world around them.

The Pioneers of Today’s Tea Journey True world citizens, Ahmed and Reem were born in Iraq, grew up in Ohio, pursued their artistic paths in Europe, and then created Numi out of Reem’s studio apartment in Oakland. Numi, or “desert lime,” is the tea of hospitality in Iraq. A decade ago, the two artists decided to go into business together to bring this and other teas and herbs to the U.S. However, rather than give up their art, they pursued a path that united art and the timeless tradition of tea drinking in a company dedicated to socially responsible business. “I would say a lot of our success also has to do with our creativity, which is something you don’t get with an MBA or even a master’s in the arts,” said Ahmed.

For Reem, the journey that led her to start Numi was advice that came from her father, which was to “choose that one thing, dive in, and see where it takes you.”

For more information, visit www.numitea.com

resource guide products | services | advice

Alternative | Eco | Environmental | Green | Healthy | Integrative | Local Natural | Nutritious | Organic | Renewable | Reusable | Sensitive | Sustainable

Bikram Yoga San Jose Michele Vennard

5289-A Prospect Rvoad, San Jose, CA 95129 408.255.9910 | www.bikramyogasanjose.com

Babycoo

Vania Hendratna 140 W. Main St. (in the Opera House) Los Gatos, CA 95030 408.310.5030 | www.babycoo.us

With 40 classes each week and certified Bikram Yoga instructors, our friendly, comfortable and casual studio is a welcoming place for you to learn yoga, get started on a new health regime, or continue to improve your Bikram Yoga practice.

With a fabulous selection of green and organic products for babies, children, and mothers, custom gift baskets, and baby gift registry, we make it easy to celebrate those special moments. Clothing, footwear, strollers, mattresses, bedding, feeding supplies, and more!

Noxcuses Fitness Palo Alto

Los Gatos Nail Works

Angie DeGeronimo

2741 Middlefield Rd., Ste 102, Palo Alto, CA 94306 650.325.1273 | www.noxcusesfitness.com

Val Speno

140 W. Main St. (in the Opera House) Los Gatos, CA 95030 408.354.6245 | www.losgatosnailworks.com

Get ready to transform the way you feel about “the gym.”

Our exquisite new studio combines state of the art fitness technology with all the comfort, privacy and attention you’ve come to expect from a premium spa. Pilates Yoga and Personal Training customized to fit your needs.

Enjoy a relaxing, stress free environment when pampering yourself with a manicure, pedicure, waxing, massage, facial, and aromatherapy. Providing services for 25 years; assures you’ll be in wonderful hands. This is are a great place for any type of pampering party—we love large groups!

Supreme Court 1 Athletic club

The Spa - Los Gatos

Dave Ralstin

415 N. Mathilda Ave, Sunnyvale, CA 94085 408.739.1250 | www.sc1ac.com We offer a unique health club experience in a warm and friendly atmosphere. Managed and run by the same core management team for over twenty years, Supreme Court offers a different experience when getting fit. Racqueatball, squash, yoga, group classes and more. Bring this ad and your spouse can come for FREE.

Classical Homeopathy

Deborah Hayes CCH RSHom(NA) MBRCP(H) CCHH 2672 Bayshore Parkway, Suite 810 Phone: 650.557.2160 | www.realhomeopathy.com

Homeopathy is a versatile, safe, and effective system of natural medicine, with in-depth health consultations and individually selected remedies to improve your energy, mood, and well being and address your unique health concerns.

*Vegetarian House

Organic Vegan Restaurant 520 E. Santa Clara St, San Jose, CA 95112 408.292.3798 | www.vegetarianhouse.us

Established in 1994, the Vegetarian House is an organic vegan restaurant located in downtown San Jose. We offer a wide range of vegan dishes from all over the world, and use freshly grown organic ingredients from local sources whenever possible.

40 | August 2009

100 S. Santa Cruz Avenue, Los Gatos, CA 95030 408.354.5901 | www.thespalosgatos.com

A world apart from other day spas, The Spa - Los Gatos features a wide variety of facials, massages, and body treatments in the tranquil space of our large facility. A professional and welcoming staff, top of the line products, private lockers, fully-stocked lounge areas, cushy robes, and slippers await you.

Healing the Zebra Arts Center Nancy A. Ries

3648 Hoover Street, Redwood City, CA 94063 650.299.1194 | www.HealingTheZebra.com A new healing arts center in a geodesic dome offers creative arts classes focusing on the body-mind-spirit for personal development. More than fifteen instructors teach workshops including tantric yoga, health movement, painting, creative writing, enactment, and more.

Yogic Beauty

Ultrapure—Beyond Organic—Body and Skin Care Beauty Secrets from the Himalayas for Radiance & Clarity Phone: 408.355.5562 | www.YogicBeauty.com

All our rare and exquisite products are lovingly handcrafted in small batches from the highest quality ingredients.

Ayurvedic Diet and Lifestyle Consultations, Pancha Karma Detox Therapies, and Yoga Therapy for internal and external vibrant health and beauty.

HealthNOW Medical Center Founders, Drs Vikki and Richard Petersen, DC, CCN

1309 S. Mary Ave, Suite 100, Sunnyvale, CA 94087 408.733.0400 | www.healthnowmedical.com The HealthNOW medical team includes experts in the fields of Internal Medicine, Clinical Nutrition, Physical Therapy, and Chiropractic. HealthNOW’s purpose is to find and fix the root cause of your health problem. We’ve been doing this successfully for over 20 years.

*Healthy Smiles Dental Care Arta Vakhshoori, D.D.S.

5595 Winfield Blvd. #108, San Jose, CA 95123 408.226.6683 | www.iHealthySmiles.com Arta Vakshoori, D.D.S. and her team provide state-of-theart technology in biological dentistry, including drill-less laser for your comfort, early detection, safety in removal of mercury fillings, and preservation for your natural tooth in a healthy, healing environment.

*Oak Meadow Dental

Dr. Robert Dyer and Dr. Christina Fantino 210 Oak Meadow Dr, Los Gatos, CA 90532 408.395.1121 | www.oakmeadowdental.com

At Oak Meadow Dental, we are a team. Each part of the team participates: doctor, staff, and patient. This way, we ensure that everybody is happy with the outcome. Only with teamwork can excellence be achieved. We are proud to be a Certified Bay Area Green Business.

Peter G. Shutts A.L.A., Architect

4133 Mohr Avenue, Suite H, Pleasanton, CA 94566 925.484.0903

Studio3 Design Bess Wiersema

1585 The Alameda #200, San Jose, CA 95126 650.575.1941 | www.studio-three.com Well known for creating award winning home spaces that reflect individual style and aesthetic, Bess Wiersema combines visionary design and seamless project management. Services: Architecture, Interior Design, Construction Administration, and Consultation (finishes, fixtures, color, landscape, master plan)

InnerSuccess Transformations Rayna Lumbard, LMFT

20688 Fourth Street, Suite 8, Saratoga, CA 95070 Phone: 408.358.3756 | www.InnerSuccess.com Rayna is a Holistic Marriage and Family Therapist, Hypnotherapist, Psychospiritual Energy Healer, and Workshop Facilitator. She empowers individuals, couples, and families to live joyful, authentic, and abundant lives by healing core issues on all levels mentally, emotionally, physically, and spiritually.

Annette’s Gluten-Free Bakery Annette Droher

PO Box 5036, Pleasanton, CA 94566 925.426.1985 | www.annettesglutenfreebakery.com Gluten Free and Dairy Free products for individuals with dietary restrictions or looking for a healthier lifestyle.

Organic ingredients are always used. Baking lessons available; recipes on website. Will ship. Catering for Gluten Free events also available. www.hostedbyannette.com

*Dharma Merchant Services Jeff and Alexia Marcous

866.615.5157 | www.dharmams.com

Small, award winning multi-disciplined architectural firm emphasizing green technology in custom home design, remodels, and additions. Covering Northern California, we incorporate green products into every residential and commercial project. Free consultation.

Dharma Merchant Services is a socially responsible and certified green provider of credit card payment accounts for retail, wholesale, non profit, and ecommerce merchants.

Dharma MS will donate 10% of their profit to the charity of their merchant’s choice.

REC Solar

SunWize Systems

167 Commercial St., Sunnyvale, CA 94086 888.657.6527 | www.recsolar.com

REC Solar, Inc., specializes in grid-tied solar electric design and installation, offering the latest technology and stateof-the-art equipment, and financing opportunities for all commercial and residential customers

Heidi Eveland

111 W St. John Ste. 1200, San Jose, CA 95113 408.255.9910 | www.sunwize.com We have been providing residential and commercial solar electric solutions nationwide since 1992. If you’re thinking of going solar, call the team that you can trust to be here for years to come. * Certified Bay Area Green Business

EUCALYPTUSMAGAZINE.COM | 41

tidbits

Bay Area Green Business Program

Partnered with the California government, it assists businesses and recognizes those that meet specific standards of environmental performance.

1,600 The number of Bay Area businesses and public agencies that have been certified green since 1997.

www.greenbiz. ca .gov An online searchable database of green business listings for 9 counties in Northern California. www.greenbiz.ca.gov/ShopGreen.html

ShopGreen

511 4

The phone number and website www.511.org where users can find information about public transportation, carpools, and even bicycle routes.

Advertiser’s Index

BY SUPRI YA LIMAY E

Sources: www.greenbiz.ca.gov, www.earth911.com

San Francisco Herb & Natural Food Co. 37

Advanced Face and Body Care

34

Dharma Merchant Services

41

Annette’s Gluten Free Bakery

41

Eating with the Seasons

37

Santana Row

4

Arta Vakhshoori, DDS

10

Enlightened Mind

32

Shakti Activewear

38

Babycoo

10

Healing the Zebra

34

40

Spot Design

3

Health Now Medical Center

11

Stirling Properties

31

34

InnerSuccess Transformations

32

Studio3 Design

41

Belanima

34

Inside and Out Body Therapy

32

SunWize Solar

Bikram Yoga San Jose

40

Los Gatos Nail Works

33

Supreme Court 1 Athletic Club

37

California Baby C2

Los Gatos Spa

11

Vegetarian House

27

Grand View League C3

Noxcuses Fitness

27

Village California Bistro And Wine Bar

31

Claire Adalyn Wright, MFT

34

Oak Meadow Dental Center

25

Wente Vineyards C4

Deborah Hayes

37

Peter G. Shutts Architect

41

Yogic Beauty

32

Dental Care/Dr. Davydova

37

REC Solar

33

Yogic Medicine Institute

25

Bay Area Health Spa Beauty 101

42 | August 2009

The number of areas in which a business must meet specifications—water conservation, solid waste reduction and recycling, energy conservation, and pollution prevention.

9