Friday, January 29, 2016

The Benefits of Saffron Spice

For the love of cooking, I collect herbs and spices and usually purchase them from my travels. During my trip to Bali some years ago, I went to a local spice shop. Like a child in a candy store, I was very excited and at the same time, confused on what to buy. Long story short, I took a package of Black Chili, 50 grams of Turmeric Spice, a package of Cinnamon Sticks, 50 grams of Yellow Curry Spice and 20 grams of Saffron. At the cashier, I was quite shocked the bill ended up more than 100 USD. I thought I was being ripped off. It was not until recently I learned that Saffron, apparently, is the world's most expensive spice. I have been using it like crazy! I should have known then I wouldn't have used it like any other spice.




The Health Benefits of Saffron

1) Asthma and Cough: It helps clear the airways making it easier for you to breathe.

2) Cancer: Saffron contains Carotenoids and apparently has an "Apoptosis" effect on cancer cells sending them signals to self destruct.

3) Antidepressant: The active components of saffron makes our body lose its depressing characteristics making it a dietary necessity sometimes.

4) Skin Diseases: Apart from imparting its exotic flavor and aroma to several recipes, saffron possesses beauty benefits. It has natural skin lightening qualities. Saffron can be beneficial for your skin and treats acne and blemishes.

5) Insomnia: Mixing it with tea will help you avoid restless or sleepless nights.

Friday, January 15, 2016

Ideas for Empty Spaces/Corners

Convert empty spaces/corners into something fun and useful.
For instance, if you are dreaming of having your own walk-in closet, you don't have to utilize a big area or even a room for it. And especially if you have a tiny place, make an awkward space in your room into an open closet wherein you can finally decorate your clothes, handbags, shoes and accessories.

An enjoyable Do-It-Yourself activity and you don't have to spend a lot of money. You can even reuse old cabinets from the storage; recycle shabby furniture and paint them with rustic or vibrant colors; or simply purchase a cheap bookshelf from IKEA.

Last year, I turned a dead space at our apartment in Saigon into a corner closet. And for about $100 US, I was able to conveniently display my favorite or most-used accessories, bags and shoes. Definitely an accessible and tidy way without digging through my whole closet.

All You Need:
Shelf
Rack
Small Carpet/Rag
Screws
Hooks
Screw Gun