It comes from the fossilised bones of a foot that were discovered in Ethiopia and dated to be 3.4 million years old.
The researchers say they do not have enough remains to identify the species of hominin, or human ancestor, from which the right foot came.
But they tell Nature journal that just the shape of the bones shows the creature could walk upright at times. Read full story from bbc.co.uk
Climate Change Poses Disaster Risk for Most of the Planet
Climate change is bringing more droughts, heat waves and powerful rainstorms, shifts that will require governments to change how they cope with natural disasters to protect human lives and the world economy, a new U.N. report says.
The 592-page analysis by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, released yesterday, also makes clear the uneven toll extracted by extreme weather, because its effects can be magnified by a lack of resources to plan for disasters and cope with their aftermath. Read full story from scientificamerican.com
News:
NYC Schools Want To Ban ‘Loaded Words’ From Tests
New York (CNN) — Divorce. Dinosaurs, Birthdays. Religion. Halloween. Christmas. Television. These are a few of the 50-plus words and references the New York City Department of Education is hoping to ban from the city’s standardized tests.
The banned word list was made public — and attracted considerable criticism — when the city’s education department recently released this year’s “request for proposal” The request for proposal is sent to test publishers around the country trying to get the job of revamping math and English tests for the City of New York.
New York (CNN) — Divorce. Dinosaurs, Birthdays. Religion. Halloween. Christmas. Television. These are a few of the 50-plus words and references the New York City Department of Education is hoping to ban from the city’s standardized tests.The banned word list was made public — and attracted considerable criticism — when the city’s education department recently released this year’s “request for proposal” The request for proposal is sent to test publishers around the country trying to get the job of revamping math and English tests for the City of New York. Read full story from ktvz.com
Suspects: Alleged sexual assault part of religion
MARIETTA – A Marietta couple was arrested Tuesday night for allegedly sexually assaulting a teenage family member, acts they say occurred due to their religious beliefs.
Arrested were Daniel R. Hess, 45, and his live-in girlfriend, Lacey K. Day, 30, of 728 Mount Tom Road, Marietta. The couple was charged with third-degree sexual battery after allegedly assaulting a 15-year-old girl on three occasions beginning in late 2010.
“We’ve been conducting the investigation for about the last two weeks. It came to our attention through another public service agency within the county,” said Washington County Sheriff Larry Mincks. Read full story from newsandssentinel.com
The moss-covered monolith has three faces and appears to be roughly 4,000 years old, based on dating of other relics sprinkled about the site, which is called Gardom’s Edge.
“The stone is a singular, very striking feature in contrast to the landscape,” said astronomer Daniel Brown of Nottingham Trent University in the UK. “It’s definitely not a Space Odyssey alien relic. It’s far more mundane and tricky.”Read full story from wired.com
One of these men owned slaves, another created laws to regulate – but not ban - slavery. The third’s chief spokesman even ordered slaves to obey their masters, religious scholars say.
Most modern people of faith see slavery as a great evil. Though the three great Western religions – Judaism, Christianity and Islam – disagree on many matters, most of their contemporary followers condemn slavery.
Yet there was a time when Jews, Christians and Muslims routinely cited the words and deeds of their founders to justify human bondage, scholars say.
At times, religion was deployed more to promote the spread of slavery than to prevent it. Read full story from cnn.com
Earth Hour is a unique opportunity for you to become more sustainable and do something positive for the environment. It’s been the source of inspiration for millions of people taking steps towards a cleaner, safer future. It’s not just about saving energy for one hour, it’s about going Beyond the Hour with lasting, behaviour-changing actions for a sustainable planet.
There are lots of ways you can take action for Earth Hour. Whether you’re a social media fan or a hands-on organiser, you’re sure to find some inspiration right here! Read full story at earthhour.org
Arts & Entertainment:
Documentaries: The Witches of Gambaga and Sweet Crude
Earlier this week I watched two really interesting documentaries that I thought I’d share with you here briefly. The first is Witches of Gambaga by Yaba Badoe (mentioned here at Amy Reads previously as she wrote True Murder and was featured in African Love Stories). This short film (at 55 minutes) talks about the Gambaga witch camp in Northern Ghana where women go for sanctuary who are accused of witchcraft. Read full story from amckiereads.com
News:
Zimbabwe: It’s Time to Destroy Witchcraft
Witchcraft can be defined and described by people depending on their life experiences. Different contextual, cultural experiences and understandings have led to the classification of witches into black, white and red witches with different functions attached to their names.
The Webster’s Unabridged Dictionary defines the word witch as one who practices black art, or magic or possessing evil supernatural or magical power backed by demons and works in league with the devil or a sorcerer or sorceress.
My life experiences have informed me that witchcraft is an enemy that hates progress with perfect hatred. Witches have an ugly and nasty agenda for people, communities and nations. Therefore witchcraft can supervise personal and also national disasters. Besides this, witchcraft is an evil force that quenches people’s destinies and national destinies. Read full story from allafrica.com
NYC schools ban on dinosaurs, Halloween
NEW YORK — In a bizarre case of political correctness run wild, New York educrats banned references to “dinosaurs,” “birthdays,” “Halloween” and dozens of other topics on city-issued tests.
That is because they fear such topics “could evoke unpleasant emotions in the students.”
Dinosaurs, for example, call to mind evolution, which might upset fundamentalists; birthdays are not celebrated by Jehovah’s Witnesses; and Halloween suggests paganism. Read full story from myfoxny.com
The Dartmouth Anomaly Research Team investigates strange phenomenon in historic places, like the Yankee Pedlar. They were joined by other investigators from Worcester Paranormal. They are at the 121-year-old Torrington hotel in part because of the recent movie, “The Innkeepers,” which told a fictional story of hauntings at the hotel and was filmed on location at the Torrington landmark. Read full story from courant.com
Religion:
Exorcism victim’s last moments
Four women and a 15-year-old minor accused of the “satanic” murder of an uMlazi teenager, were all released from custody on Thursday after being granted bail at the uMlazi Magistrate’s Court.
Sinethemba Dlamini, 15, was found dead by police on March 10 with her intestines lying next to her at her home in uMlazi.
Fundiswa Faku, 29, Lindela Jalubane, 38, her daughter, Nokubonga Jalubane, 18, Nonhlanhla Mdletshe, 21, and the 15-year-old minor all pleaded not guilty.
On Thursday, Magistrate Anesh Sukdeo granted each accused bail of R500 and released the minor into her father’s custody.
He said the accused had satisfied the court by presenting it with exceptional circumstances to be granted bail. Read full story from iolnews.co.za
An acient treatment for joint pain, was a live bee sting. Today, Apis is a homeopathic remedy that contains bee venom and used to treat insect bites and conditions resembling stings.
Historical Origins:
Hippocrates, (in the fifth century B.C.) noted that diseases could be cured by “similars”: What causes a disease may also cure it, or “like cures like.” The German doctor Paracelsus, (in the 1500s) also followed this principle, prescribing tiny doses of poisons thought to cause disease. Closely related to homeopathy’s Law of Similars, this belief states that a substance which can cause symptoms of illness in the healthy can also be used to cure those symptoms in the sick. Thus, venom from a bee treats its “similar” beestings.
The Source of the medicine:
The entire body of the honeybee is crushed or ground to prepare the remedy.
Used for:
Those allergic to bee-stings or poison ivy.
Insect bites, nettle rash, allergic conditions, blisters, whitlow (an abscess on the fingertip).
Infections of the urinary tract, including cystitis, with stabbing hot pains. Urinary incontinence in elderly persons.
Fluid retention causing swelling of the eyelids, conjunctivitis and sties.
Allergic conditions that cause sore throat and swallowing difficulties, and tonsillitis (the throat can look as if it was stung and can be puffy, red and raw). The person often experiences hot, stabbing headaches and has dry skin.
Swollen, painful inflammation of the joints as in arthritic conditions and for peritonitis and pleurisy. The symptoms are made worse by heat and touch, stuffy airless rooms following sleep and in the early evening. They improve in the fresh, cool open air, after taking a cold bath, or any cold application.
Hives, weeping or pus-filled blisters and carbuncles.
Symptom Gauge:
Better:
With cold compresses
In cold weather
With exercise
In fresh air In the morning
Worse:
With heat applications
When warm
When touched
In hot, stale air
In the afternoon
Other Diagnostic Choices:
For most bites and stings, as well as for skin inflammations which have stinglike symptoms, homeopaths will turn to Apis as their first choice. Some reactions to bites and stings, include a slightly different set of symptoms. In a case like this, a homeopath might choose to prescribe another type of remedy. The following are some of these alternate choices and their symptom profiles.
Ledum:
Extensive swelling
Sensation of cold in the affected area
A stinging, pricking feeling
Relief from cold applications
Hypericum:
Bites or stings on fingers or toes
Extensive inflammation
Shooting pains
Worsening of symptoms with cold applications
Lachesis:
Affected area has a bluish appearance
Relief from cold applications
Staphsagria:
Excessive pain
Indignation about suffering
Frequent victim of insect bites, especially mosquito bites
Urtica urens:
Burning and stinging that itch badly
Hives at the site of the sting
References:
The Complete Guide to Natural Healing
Healthcare Natural
Apis is a great first-aid remedy to have on hand, particularly if you are allergic to bee-stings, or other insect bites. You should ALWAYS seek medical attention, but Apis offers immediate help in an emergency situation.
Note: Consult with a Physician or certified herbologist if you are seeking medical remedies. The information is not intended as medical advice. PagansWorld.org is not liable for the misuse of the herb listed above.
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2 tablespoons fresh ginger root, minced (I use Galangal, If you can find it)
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 pounds skinless, boneless chicken breast halves – cut into 1/2 inch strips
3 shiitake mushrooms, sliced
5 green onions, chopped
1 1/2 cups chopped fresh basil leaves
Preparation:
Bring rice and water to a boil in a pot. Cover, reduce heat to low, and simmer 20 minutes. (This rice tends to cook very fast)
In a bowl, mix the coconut milk, soy sauce, rice wine vinegar, fish sauce, and red pepper flakes.
In a skillet or wok, heat the oil over medium-high heat. Stir in the onion, ginger, (galangal), chili peppers and garlic, and cook until lightly browned. Mix in chicken strips, and cook about 3 minutes, until browned. Stir in the coconut milk sauce. Continue cooking until sauce is reduced be about 1/3. Mix in mushrooms, green onions, and basil, and cook until heated through. Serve over the cooked rice.
Patchouli (Botanical Name: Pogostemon Cablin) Folk Names: Kablin, Pucha-Pot
Powers: Fertility, Jinx-Breaking, Lust, Money
Patchouli is a species from the genus Pogostemon and an herb of the mint family. It is cultivated extensively in India, Madagascar, Sumatra and the Seychelles for steam distillation of oil and used to manufacture perfumes, incense, soaps, hair tonic, tobacco and cosmetics. The essential oil has a lusty, earthy scent and may be used during the Great Rite, as a candle dressing, or mixed into sexual lubricants.
Make a love bath: Mix Patchouli with rose petals, orange flowers and chips of Queen of Elizabeth root. Blend into a tea and use in a love bath. Air dry to keep the fragrance on you when you go on a date. Throw the bath water out the front door to attract love
To sex up love: Blend equal amounts of Patchouli leaves, Damiana leaves, and Myrrh, then mix on charcoal.
To attract money: In equal amounts, blend Patchouli leaves with Sandlewood and Quassia, carry in a green flannel conjure bag dressed with money drawing oil. You can also use this in the corners of the your house or place of employment. For a stonger incense, add equal parts of Bayberry root chips, Cinnamon chips, Bensoin and Cloves. Burn on a bed of charcoal. It can also be sprinkled onto money, added to a purse or wallet, and placed around candles.
Break a Jinx or return a spell: Mix Patchouli roots with graveyard dirt and Agrimony, and carry the mixture in a mojo bag.
Medicinal Uses: The oil is very strong and can be tempered down by adding 10-20 drops of oil to 2 tablesp. of almond oil and 5 drops of wheatgerm oil to preserve freshness.
Stimulates the nervous system
Lifts moods
Relieves stress and gives the feeling of well being
Balances endocrine system (which balances hormones)
Scott Cunningham: Cunningham’s Encyclopedia of magical herbs
Note: Consult with a Physician or certified herbologist if you are seeking medical remedies. The information is not intended as medical advice. PagansWorld.org is not liable for the misuse of the herb listed above.
Thanks for stopping by! Well wishes to you all, have a great day!
More than 50 years ago, English physician Edward Bach developed the healing floral remedy from Honeysuckle. (along with 38 other floral essences) Honeysuckle is intended to promote emotional healing, as well as help patients regain hope and live for the present. It is usually recommended for those who dwell on an idealized past and who obsessively focus on the missed opportunities of life.
True Honeysuckle:
The true honeysuckle used to prepare this floral essence belongs to the genus lonicera. The petals of the flowers are red on the outside and white on the inside, once pollinated turn yellow. Honeysuckle is a climbing plant that can grow up to 12 feet. There are about 180 species of honeysuckle, 100 of which occur in China, with only about 20 in Europe, India and North America.
Taking the Remedy: Floral remedies are sold in most health food stores, usually as a bottled flower essence.
Mix a few drops of the flower essence, or a combination of essences with spring water.
Sip the mixture several times daily.
The honeysuckle temperament: People most likely to benefit, are those that have deep regrets about the past. Typically they are unable to overcome a loss or separation from a loved one. The sole source of comfort are memories of past comfort and joy, making it impossible to enjoy the present.
Honeysuckle’s relaxing and revitalizing effect is used to help people overcome a negative outlook on life.
The flower can also build powers of concentration and instill optimism about the present and future.
Supportive measures: Try a few of these simple activities, they may improve your outlook and help you regain hope.
Try to maintain a positive attitude.
Say yes to your life, and to the here and now.
Sit by a stream and let its steady flow soothe you.
Visit one of your favorite places from your past, let yourself discover new things. You may be surprised by what you will find.
Find a new creative activity or hobby that requires your attention.
Practice deep breathing and exercises to help you relax.
Honeysuckle for children: May aid children facing traumatic life changes. These children generally cry and talk about how they miss their former situation. Honeysuckle may relieve this stress and build confidence.
Can help with children who are homesick.
Helps to cope with separation or divorce.
An unsettled move to a new home or distraught about entering kindergarten.
Wildflower mixture: For relief from grief or shock following a death or tragedy.
Honeysuckle can be combined with Star of Bethlehem.
Add 3 drops of the wildflower mixture to 1/2 oz. of water. (sip slowly)
Signs of a blocked mental state:
Glorifying the past
Being homesick and melancholy
Longing for the past
Regretting missed opportunities
Not being able to overcome a loved one
Having difficulty with everyday tasks
Unable to concentrate
Sluggishness
Signs of transformation:
New and Positive outlook
Being alert
Flexible
Open minded
Sharpened memory
New and creative activities
Feeling joyful
Learning from a past or present experience
Being optimistic about the present and future
Tip:Honeysuckle may also help people confront, and move beyond, suppressed painful experiences from the past.
Warning:The berries are toxic.
Learn from yesterday, live for today, hope for tomorrow. The important thing is not to stop questioning. - Albert Einstein
References:
The Complete Guide to Natural Healing
Note: Consult with a Physician or certified herbologist if you are seeking medical remedies. The information is not intended as medical advice. PagansWorld.org is not liable for the misuse of the herb listed above.
Thanks for stopping by! Well wishes to you all, have a great day!
Eucalyptus is a genus of the plant family Myrtaceae, and most likely first discovered by the Aborigines, the native inhabitants of Australia. (There are more than 700 species of Eucalyptus) The essential oil is obtained from the branches and leaves. A steam distillation process is used to extract the oil from the tree parts, and some 110 pounds of plant material is required to produce about 2 pounds of eucalyptus oil. The medicinal properties of eucalyptus oil is an effective remedy for skin problems and fever, and has long been called the “fever tree”. Modern herbalists rely on eucalyptus oil to treat colds, fever, respiratory diseases, joint and muscle pain, migraines and bladder problems. The oil has strong germicidal and antibacterial effects.
The essential oil stimulates the nervous system and promotes concentration. Combined with lemon oil in a diffuser, it is ideal for mental exhaustion and listlessness.
4 drops eucalyptus oil
2 drops lemon oil
Therapeutic effects: The principal ingredient in eucalyptus oil is eucalyptol, which has strong germicidal and disinfectant properties.
As a diuretic, it lowers blood sugar and helps to relieve cough and fever.
As an effective analgesic, it is often used in preparations designed to relieve muscle, nerve and joint pain.
On a psychological level, it helps to combat exhaustion and dispels mental sluggishness.
For a sense of well being:
Blend a few drops of eucalyptus oil and massage oils for a cooling and stimulating effect on both mind and body. (Apply to pulse points)
To purify the sickroom: It is an ideal essence to use in a sickbed environment.
Five drops of the oil in a diffuser will kill germs in the air and reduce the number of airborne bacteria. (This helps keep germs from spreading)
For wounds and abscesses: The STRONG germicidal effect can help heal wounds, burns, ulcers and insect bites or stings.
Place a few drops of the oil on a dressing or bandage before covering the area with it.
To suppress coughs:
A chest compress with eucalyptus and massage oils will help loosen phlegm and improve lung function.
To improve the sauna: Get the best detoxifying effects of a sauna.
Place 3 drops of the oil in a ladle fulL of water and pour over the hot stones.
Applications:
External use:
Lower a fever with a eucalyptus calf wrap; Add 5 drops of eucalyptus oil to 1 qt. of lukewarm water, soak linen or cotton cloths in the mixture. Wrap the cloths around your calves and secure with dry cloths. (Calf wraps should be used only when the feet are warm)
To get rid of dandruff; Mix 10 drops of eucalyptus oil with your shampoo and massage well into your scalp. (Wait a few minutes before rinsing)
To alleviate cold symptoms; Place a few drops of eucalyptus oil on a handkerchief and deeply inhale.
To relieve sinus and chest congestion; Combine 5 drops of eucalyptus oil with 1 drop of peppermint oil. Add crushed eucalyptus, peppermint, coltsfoot and comfrey herbs. Place ½ oz. of mixture in a clean sock, knot the end and place inside your pillowcase overnight.
For relief from muscular aches and pains; Mix 10-15 drops of eucalyptus oil and 2 oz. of sweet almond or grapeseed oil, massage into muscles.
Tips:
Insects dislike the odor of eucalyptus oil.
Add a few drops of the oil to massage oil.
Place a few drops in a diffuser to keep the room pest free.
Warning: Too much eucalyptus oil can irritate the skin, be sure to use the exact amount specified in the preparations listed here. Combining eucalyptus oil with massage oil reduces the chance of irritation. Keep eucalyptus oil away from children.
References:
The Complete Guide To Natural Healing
Note: Consult with a Physician or certified herbologist if you are seeking medical remedies. The information is not intended as medical advice. PagansWorld.org is not liable for the misuse of the herb listed above.
Thanks for stopping by! Well wishes to you all, have a great day!
