#it smells like a very mild potpourri

[theres-whump-in-that-nebula]

When the book starts off wholesome but gets worse and worse every chapter you read

[cosmicjoke]

Oh, Armand is a crazy bastard, lol.  That scene when he rips that guy’s scalp off, holllly, haha.  Don’t mess with this dude.

Okay, but, just the first chapter in to “The Vampire Armand”, but already, I’m really loving it, and particularly I find the stark difference between Armand and Lestat super fascinating.  These two are like polar opposites to one another, which I already knew, but seeing the tonal difference in their respective narratives drives it home all the more.

Lestat very much comes across as an at times overactive child, lol.  He’s very energetic and hyper and make big, grand and emotional declarations.  And Armand is so different.  There’s a very somber, reserved and isolated feel to his narrative thus far, and also what strikes me is how almost fragmented and wandering his thoughts are.  He jumps from thought to thought and feeling to feeling from one instant to the next.  With Armand, there’s very much a sense of a lack of foundation in who he is, or what he’s supposed to be, and your heart has to break for him on that count alone. 

Like this part, when he’s talking to David (who, I’m starting to see why people find this dude so annoying, like, bro, leave Armand alone!)

Armand is annoyed at David’s intrusion, and he goes on a bit of a tangent about him

“A handsome gent,” I went on, “the color of caramel, moving with such catlike ease and gilded glances that he makes me think of all things once delectable, and now a potpourri of scent: cinnamon, clove, mild peppers and other spices golden, brown or red, whose fragrances can spike my brain and plunge me into erotic yearnings that live now, more than ever, to play themselves out.  His skin must smell like cashew nuts and thick almond creams.  It does.”

He laughed.  “I get your point.”

I had shocked myself.  I was wretched for a moment.  “I’m not sure I get myself,” I said apologetically.”

Like, damn, poor Armand.  He’s an emotional mess, you can tell.  It feels like he just sort of loses control of his emotions at times, and then he’s ashamed of himself for it. 

His whole interaction with Marius is also a killer in terms of making you feel for Armand.  When he says to him, after Marius asks him to come stay with him in his house

“Master, I love you, but now I must be alone,” I said.  “You don’t need me now, do you, Sir?  How can you?  You never really did.”  Instantly I regretted it.  The words, not the tone, were impudent.  And our minds being so divided by intimate blood, I was afraid he’s misunderstand.”

I mean, this kind of encapsulates the whole tragedy between Armand and Marius, and Armand’s entire sense of abandonment too.  He doesn’t mean it as an accusation against Marius.  He just means it as a statement of fact.  He thinks Marius never needed him.  He probably feels that way about everyone he’s ever loved.  Lestat of course being the prime example.  And it’s really fascinating too, because as different as Lestat and Armand are, they both suffer from the same fear.  This idea in their heads that they aren’t lovable, that they aren’t worthy of love, that others will always leave them, that those they love will never return that love.  They come at the insecurity in two totally different ways.  Lestat tries to hold on to what love he finds harder, he tries to make it work, sometimes to force it, and Armand is much more resigning, almost more wilting in the face of it.  That’s the difference in their personalities.  Lestat is someone who refuses to yield or accept defeat.  Armand is someone who accepts and takes it.  But there’s this deep similarity between them too, beneath their personalities.  The same fears and insecurities and self-loathing drives them, I think, which also in a way explains why the two of them are always so at odds with each other, why they can’t ever really, truly be together.  For as different as they are, they’re also very strangely similar.  They maybe see too much of themselves in each other, and it scares them. 

This exchange between Armand and David also speaks volumes about Armand’s mindset regarding Lestat, and how it plays on his own insecurities.  He says

“Oh, I see, so that excuses it, that you followed me here?”

“I didn’t follow you, Armand,” he said.  “I live here.”

“Ah, I’m sorry then,” I admitted.  “I hadn’t known.  I suppose I’m glad of it.  You guard him.  He’s never alone.”  I meant Lestat of course.

From Armand’s perspective, Lestat is always surrounded by people (and, well, yeah, Lestat is.  That light in him which Nicki talked about once, that draws people to him.).  But you can see how it hurts Armand, because for him it must seem the opposite, that there’s a darkness in him which repels.  Just being near Lestat, seeing the way people are drawn to him, has to work at his insecurities in the worst way.  Again, it sheds light then on why he and Lestat are so often at odds.  It doesn’t help when David says to him

“Everyone’s afraid of you,”

But then there’s the contradiction to that, the way people lust after him, and this is why people are complaining too about Armand’s casting in the show, because it’s basically vital to the character that he have the appearance of a boy.  His entire psychology is wrapped up in the fact that he was a victim of sexual abuse as a child, that he was turned when he was only 17 and still had the appearance of a child.

This exchange between him and David

“You make me hungry,” I whispered.  “Not for you but for one who is doomed and yet alive.  I want to hunt.  Stop it.  Why do you touch me?  Why be so gentle?”

“Everyone wants you,” he said.

“Oh, I know.  Everyone would ravage a guilty cunning child!  Everyone would have a laughing boy who knows his way around the block.  Kids make better food than women, and girls are all too much like women, but young boys?  They’re not like men, are they?”

“Don’t mock me.  I meant I wanted only to touch you, to feel how soft you are, how eternally young.”

“Oh, that’s me, eternally young,” I said.  “You speak nonsense words for one so pretty yourself.”

Again, I find this really revealing, also about Armand’s relationship with Lestat in particular.  Everyone wants Armand, David tells him, and Armand is aware it’s largely because of the allure of his young, boyish appearance.  There’s an inherent perversion, then, in most people’s attraction to Armand.  They want him because he’s like a child.  That in itself is such a major tragedy.  There’s exceptions of course.  Like Daniel and Louis, both of whom are lovers of Armand’s, and who’s love is genuine.  But then there’s Lestat, who’s the only one who’s never lusted after Armand that way, and that kind of tells you a lot about who Lestat is too.  He loves Armand, but he doesn’t want him in the same way everyone else seems to.  He doesn’t lust after him.  You can see in its own way why this would serve to mess with Armand’s head.  He’s used to people going after him, to wanting him on account of his boyish beauty.  And then comes along Lestat, who looks very much like Marius, who Armand himself falls in love with, and yet Lestat shows no interest or desire to be with him in that way.  He doesn’t want to go after him, he doesn’t want to make him his.  It’s almost like Lestat is the first person Armand’s ever loved who didn’t actually treat him like meat, and that’s heartbreaking that it took 300 years of life before Armand came across someone who actually treated him like a real person, but also makes the dynamic and relationship between him and Lestat very special. As at each others throats as they are, as antagonistic as their exchanges often are, I feel like there’s a purity to their love that simply doesn’t really exist for Armand anywhere else. 

This part too, tells you plenty about the damage wrought in Armand by the trauma’s he’s experienced, another exchange with David, and Armand thinks

“I wondered idly and viciously if I could attack him, take him, bring him down under my greater craft and cunning and taste his blood without his consent.”

“I’m much too far along the road for that,” he said, “and why would you chance such a thing?”

“What self-possession.  The older man in him did indeed command the sturdier younger flesh, the wise mortal with an iron authority over all things eternal and supernaturally powerful.  What a blend of energies!  Nice to drink his blood, to take him against his will.  There is no such fun on Earth like the raping of an equal.

“I don’t know,” I said, ashamed.  Rape is unmanly.  “I don’t know why I insult you...”

It gives some pretty powerful insight into why Armand attacked Lestat the way he did, back when they first met.  Lestat was already pretty much equal to Armand in strength then, and Armand, because of the horrible things he’s gone through in his life, displays those kinds of symptoms of trauma common to victims of sexual abuse, thinking about sex and violence as almost one in the same.  Having invasive thoughts circling around those two things, etc...  He’s been taught the two go hand in hand, and then being a vampire sort of affirms that perception, a vampire’s very nature being of a violent and sexual nature.  Armand, while logically, knowing rape is bad and ugly and something one should be ashamed of, has still also had the concept of it almost normalized to him. 

[the-nagakenny-archives]

New to the Party Pt. 2

(OOC: First part can be found here ;v; Sorry this is so long OTL, hope it was worth the wait ;v;)

A few hours later, Samantha began to feel uneasy. It was getting dark; most of the party crowd had dissipated and gone home, but there were still quite a few people chatting around a rather elegant fire pit near the back patio. Kenny was among them, grinning brilliantly and laughing his throaty chuckling laugh, eyes sparkling with mirth. Samantha drifted over, eyes scanning for Michael, trying hard not to make eye contact with anyone else lest she be invited to come sit with everyone. 

To her chagrin, Kenny noticed her; his eyes lit up and he gestured to her enthusiastically. “Samantha! Come on over and join us! The fire’s warm and the company’s warmer!” This was following by a smattering of smiles and friendly affirming murmurs from everyone else. 

“Uh, heheh, actually,” Samantha replied, smiling awkwardly and brushing a lock of hair behind her ear, “I was, uhm, looking for Michael. Have you seen him, by any chance? We really need to, uh....get going.”

Kenny’s expression changed to mild surprise. Everyone else made disappointed noises and chimed in with more murmurs. “You’re not staying?” “Aw, how come?” “So soon?” “Oh, that’s too bad.” It made Samantha feel a little....odd. Part of her was surprised and kind of touched that people seemed disappointed that she was leaving, but another felt....well, like something strange was going on. 

“Are you feeling sort of funny about the after-party, hon?” a woman she didn’t recognize asked her. She had beautiful dark hair and a very expensive-looking silvery dress on.

“I’ll admit, I felt the same way about it the first time,” a dapper blonde young man piped up. “I was convinced it was some kind of weird rich-person thing you always hear rumors about, like an orgy or something. Uh, no offense, Mr. Huggins!” He quickly interjected with a laugh.

“Oh, none taken!” Kenny replied with a mischievous grin, taking a sip of his mineral water. “Those are strictly for holidays only.” 

There was an uproar of laughter at this. Even Samantha found herself biting back a little bit of a smile. “Heh, and uh, what about sacrificing a lowly intern to some kind of eldritch god to keep the fortune flowing?” she joked dryly. 

Kenny threw back his head and laughed heartily. “Oh good heavens no, you’re safe,” he said cheerfully. “I already picked Jerry for that, didn’t I Jerry?” He clapped the young man sitting next to him on the back, who rolled his eyes with good humor and gave an overly dramatic shrug of resignation. Samantha found herself giggling along with everyone else. She was starting to loosen up a little against her better judgement.

She caught sight of Michael loping out of the back door of the house, whistling. Either he had been to the bathroom or--more likely--he had been in there scrounging for left-overs. She felt the growing contentment give way to relief. Now there was no question about it, she could leave. 

“Ah, Michael!” Kenny said brightly as he came over. “Will you be joining us this evening?”

Samantha began to explain. “Oh, ah, he’s actually---”

“Yep! Sure am!” Michael interrupted with an enthusiastic nod.

Samantha looked at him in stunned silence, eyes wide. 

“Good! Wonderful!” Kenny said, clapping his hands together. “In that case, I think that’s everyone then. Let’s make our way inside!” 

The twenty or so people got up from their seats at the fire pit, chatting excitedly, and started heading for the back door. Michael noticed Samantha goggling at him angrily. “Come on, don’t be such a buzzkill,” he sighed. “This sounds like it’s going to be a fun time.”

“So what if I am?! I told you I wanted to go home!” Samantha hissed. She tried keeping her voice down so that no one would hear. 

“Sam, honestly, maybe this’ll do you some good,” Michael said, looking slightly miffed. “You’ve been acting really high-strung lately. Can’t you just loosen up a little?”

Kenny overheard them arguing; he gestured for everyone to go inside without him, and he ambled over to the two of them, hands in his pockets. “Everything okay?” he asked. 

Samantha felt a blush of embarrassment forming on her cheeks. This awkwardness was exactly the kind of thing she had been trying to avoid. “W-Well, Michael’s supposed to be my ride, so--”

“Oh! No problem! I’ll call a cab for you.” Kenny put his hands on their shoulders and started gently leading them both toward the house. “Michael, could you tell everyone I’ll be downstairs in a little while? I’m gonna keep Samantha company while she waits for her ride to get here.”  

“Oh no, please, that’s okay!” Now she was practically burning alive from the embarrassment. Why did this have to happen to her? Things had been going so well. Now her boss probably thought she was being a pain in the butt. 

“Nonsense! What kind of host would I be to make you hang around alone? This place can be kind of spooky at night, you know.” 

They entered through the back door into a hallway with beautiful dark wood floors, and he led them to a huge living room area. Samantha had never seen such pristine, comfortable-looking furniture in all her life. Kenny directed Michael to another hall, and he was soon out of sight. 

“B-But....really, I....” Samantha tried to stammer out another protest.

“Have a seat,” Kenny said, beaming at her, “and I’ll conjure up my cellular phone. Let me see, where did I leave that pesky thing?” Kenny gave his pockets a once-over, but was coming up empty-handed. 

Samantha sank onto one of the couches gloomily, but her mood was almost instantly forgotten by the absolute decadent comfort of her seat. “Ooooo,” she said, leaning farther back into its cushions, and then blushed as she realized she had uttered that aloud. 

“Comfy, huh?” Kenny grinned at her, stopping his search for his phone momentarily. “I’m of the opinion that comfort is a luxury everyone should be able to afford. That’s why I started my business.” 

“Huh, yeah?” It was a little hard for Samantha to concentrate; she was distracted by the marshmallow-y softness of the couch. Good lord, if she had a couch like this at home, she’d never leave. 

“Mmm-hmm. It’s a known fact that nowadays people aren’t sleeping well---stress, depression, too much work, too much technology. It’s making people sicker, sadder, and more apathetic. And I aim to change that.” He cocked his head as he looked at her, and Samantha noticed for the first time how strangely captivating his dark, warm eyes were. In fact, she unconsciously tilted her head to mimic him. “It’s part of why I throw these parties, too,” he said. His voice was soft, almost soothing. “Everyone has a nice time, and then they end the night with a nice sleep. All cuddled up, because cuddling is important, too. It lowers blood pressure, relieves stress, even helps pain. And the next day, they wake up feeling better than they have in a long time.” 

“Oh...wow. Is that a fact?” Samantha asked softly. She wondered if he was making that up. Then she tried to think of the last time she had had a good night’s sleep, and how it felt to wake up feeling refreshed and like resting had actually been productive. She couldn’t remember. 

He smiled gently at her. “Mmm-hmm. Helping people feel good is something I’ve always loved doing. So when I had this place built, I made sure there was at least one room where people could go for a leisurely escape. I’ve made the downstairs a perfect place to just lounge around and relax. The floor is cushioned, there’s a sunken level full of pillows and couches, and there’s plenty of room to snuggle up and just let the days and weeks of toil and hardship just melt away. Nothing but our dreams to take us to far, fantastic places, floating like bubbles on a warm summer breeze.” His grin broadened and his tone of voice changed back to its playful timbre. “But anyway, I’ve gabbed a bit too much, I think. I still need to call you a cab, don’t I?”

Samantha blinked, feeling bewildered. It was like a spell had been broken. “Ah, yeah.” She felt an actual pang of disappointment that surprised her. The part of her that wanted to leave was quiet now. Did she really want to go home and go to bed---her slightly lumpy, too firm bed---when she had an opportunity to sleep on a couch that was as comfortable as the one she was currently sitting on? And anyway, when was she ever going to have the chance to sleep over at a billionaire’s house again? Plus Michael and Dorothy would be there, so it wasn’t like she’d be surrounded by strangers. The cuddling thing was still kind of weird to her.....but maybe she could get around that somehow.

And there was Kenny, too. She hadn’t really encountered him too much at work, but talking with him at length like this made her realize there was something....magnetic about him that she’d never encountered in anyone else. A warm, inviting magnetism that radiated from him, like he was a living sun. That when he smiled, the world smiled with him. 

“Uh, you know....maybe I’ll, uhm....stay after all,” she said hesitantly.

“Hmm? Really?” Kenny’s eyes lit up with delight. “Well, that’s wonderful! In that case, come along with me.” He held out his hand to her. “I’ll take you there.” 

Samantha was reluctant to get up from the couch, and almost suggested she just sleep there instead, but curiosity got the better of her. She put her hand in his, and was helped gently to her feet. She found herself still wanting to hold his hand as they walked together to the hall Michael had disappeared down; his hand was soft and strong. She blushed, wondering if she was being improper, holding her boss’s hand like she was his high school sweetheart, but he didn’t seem to mind at all. 

They walked down a short flight of stairs to the lower level of the house; it was a few degrees cooler, pleasantly so, and smelled strongly of some kind of potpourri or incense that Samantha found incredibly nice. She thought she could detect vanilla and lavender. She couldn’t resist inhaling a deep breath of it. Kenny said nothing, but smiled at her as though he understood. 

They were soon in a small room with many cubby-holes integrated in the walls; one side housed people’s shoes and jackets, the other had neatly-folded fluffy white robes. Beyond the walls of cubby-holes was a door.

Kenny let go of her hand and began taking off his own shoes and socks, placing them into one of the cubbies. Samantha followed his example, though she kept her socks on; she didn’t know why, but she felt a bit odd being barefoot in a place like this, as though her feet would sully the floor. 

“Grab a robe and I’ll meet you inside,” Kenny told her with a wink. “Have to change just a bit before we start.” 

“O-Okay.” Samantha put on one of the robes and instantly fell in love with it; the material was like being swaddled by a cloud, and it smelled faintly of the vanilla and lavender that she had smelled before. Then she apprehensively opened the door and stepped through.

The room beyond was dimly lit by an ornate lantern hanging from the ceiling, casting a comfortable orange glow, but she could make out everyone gathered in the sunken living space in the middle, sitting on the couches and pillows and chatting softly with each other. She caught sight of Michael and Dorothy and walked over. The floor felt soft and plush under her feet, almost making her regret that she had opted to leave her socks on. 

“Samantha!” Dorothy piped up in surprise, her voice at a reasonable volume for a change. She got up and gave her a hug. “Changed your mind, huh? I’m so glad. C’mon, come sit by me an’ Michael!” She darted over to the couch and patted the seat between them, prompting everyone else to murmur words of encouragement. Michael was smiling at her smugly, as if to say “I told you so”; she decided to ignore that. She’d deal with him later. 

Samantha smiled awkwardly and drifted over, sitting down. “Uhm, so,” she said with a nervous laugh, “uh....what do we do now?” 

“Oh, nothing yet,” whispered the dark-haired girl from before. “We have to wait for Kenny first. He likes to say a few words before we begin.”

As if on cue, the door opened and Kenny stepped into the room, smiling serenely. Samantha thought her eyes were playing tricks on her thanks to the dim lighting, but her heart gave a jolt as she realized he was wearing nothing except one of the white robes they were all wearing; she could see part of his muscular chest peeking through the opening, and his bare calves as he walked over to them. She hoped like hell he wasn’t totally naked under there. She glanced over at Dorothy and could tell she was thinking the exact opposite from her facial expression. 

He ambled down the few steps into the sunken living space and stood in the middle of the floor, looking at them all. “My friends,” he said, “thank you all for coming.” His voice was now a smooth, crooning purr. Samantha felt her skin break out in tingly goosebumps; she’d never heard him sound like this before. “Today was a grand party indeed. Your stomachs are full, and your hearts are full. However, you know that you can’t truly enjoy a warm, snug cuddle and welcome a long, peaceful sleep when your minds are full.” 

Samantha frowned to herself, deeply puzzled. A glance over at Michael told her he was just as puzzled, but Dorothy was nodding, seemingly expectant. 

“For those of you who have been here before,” Kenny continued softly, “this will only take a moment.” 

He cleared his throat. The atmosphere seemed to change; everyone save Samantha and Michael appeared to be hanging on Kenny’s every word, breathlessly silent, waiting for something.

To Samantha’s surprise, he began to sing in a strangely hypnotic, rhyming cadence.

“A memory of colors left behind

You see them forming in your mind

Let them set your senses free

Your mind is clear at the count of three

One.....two......three.”

Samantha watched in stunned silence as the group seemed to sigh rapturously as one, as though a tremendous weight had been lifted from them at the same time, and slump back in their seats, eyes glazed over. There was something else about their eyes, she noticed as well---she leaned over to look at Dorothy, who was drooped on the couch in the same state, and.....were her eyes changing color? It was hard to tell---her eyelids were nearly shut---but she could swear that’s what they were doing. 

“They’re alright, don’t worry,” Kenny said kindly. “It’s just a lot easier for me this way. I do feel a little bad, it seems like cheating, in a way. But they don’t seem to mind it.” He chuckled.

“What the heck did you do?” Michael asked as he looked around at everyone, sounding a bit awestruck. “They.....they look like they’re in a trance.”

“Mmm, well, that’s because they are!” Kenny beamed at him with his charming, radiant smile. “You see, it’s very hard to fall asleep unless you’re in a completely relaxed state. This is without a doubt the most relaxed they’ll ever be.” He ambled closer to where they both sat; the two of them just watched, frozen in disbelief and astonishment. “They’re experiencing a residual trance though, brought about by a trigger I made specially for them. You two....since this is your first time, you get the real thing.” His eyes twinkled with a kind of ethereal mischief. “Aren’t you lucky?”

“I...wha...” Samantha struggled with her confusion for a moment. “What do you mean....the ‘real thing’?”

Kenny didn’t answer right away; instead he leaned down closer to them, his eyes never leaving their faces, and gently cupped a warm, soft hand against each of their cheeks. Samantha was still too stunned to move, though what she was feeling wasn’t necessarily fear; it was like a swarm of butterflies had been disturbed inside her, tickling her from the inside. She was glued to the spot like a deer in headlights. 

“I mean,” Kenny replied, his voice now a soft, purring whisper, “thissssssss.”

As they watched, looking into his face with curiosity and anticipation, his eyes slowly changed---they began to glow with an otherworldy light, accentuated by the mood lighting in the room, and change colors in a slow, repeating pattern of ripples. It was beautifully hypnotic; in fact, as soon as Samantha looked into his eyes, she was completely unable to tear her eyes away, and any thoughts of how it was even possible slowly stopped bothering her. She vaguely heard Michael gasp softly next to her, but she didn’t turn her head to look; the colors arrested her, dominating her vision. Her head started to feel warm and muzzy; a kind of pleasant sleepiness was washing over her as she watched the colors in their eternal undulations. 

“Relax-sssss, my darlings,” Kenny purred in a smooth, velvety voice. “Take deep, deep breathsssss. Let go of the weight of the world, and be at peace.”    

“Mmmmmmm....” Samantha hummed with deep satisfaction, her eyelids slowly drooping. At his words she could feel everything lifting from her like so many balloons, and it felt magnificent. She’d never felt this combination of good and empty before. She sank into Kenny’s touch, into the comfy softness of the couch where she sat, into the robe she was wearing. Michael had already deflated next to her, an expression of intense sleepiness and wonder stamped on his features. 

She felt something else caress against her face then. It wasn’t Kenny’s hand; that was still gently cupping her cheek. Kenny’s other hand was still against Michael’s cheek. Whatever it was brushed against her chin momentarily, warm and silky smooth, and she shuddered with pleasure. She couldn’t see what it was, however; she was still transfixed by the colors of his eyes. If she had looked, however, she would have seen it was a tail---a snake’s tail. 

Kenny smiled slyly. He was slowly rising off the floor, but neither Samantha or Michael seemed to notice or care---not even when it was clear he no longer had legs, and loops of huge, thick snake coils began to fill the space. The coils slithered and undulated smoothly around and in-between the others, who sighed and groaned in their trance with relief and bliss, snuggling themselves against the soft, silky muscle that surrounded them. Some of them were asleep in seconds. 

Samantha could feel the weight of the tail in her lap, wrapping around her body snugly, and she uttered a groan herself. It was like nothing she had ever felt before---an all encompassing hug, so warm and safe. She was so, so sleepy.....she wanted to lie down against the hugging coils and disappear into their embrace. 

Kenny drifted between her and Michael and settled himself on the couch, his huge serpentine body shifting and rippling with subtle power. Samantha and Michael immediately draped themselves into his scaly lap, loops of coils covering them, and let sleep claim them.

Kenny closed his eyes and sighed contentedly. He gave his coils a soft, flexing squeeze around each person, causing some to make soft noises of comfort, though most were too in the throes of sleep to react. Another successful party, he thought to himself. There was nothing quite like a beautiful sleep after good food with good friends.

They remained that way uninterrupted for the entirety of the night. Samantha wore a small, enchanted smile the entire time she slept. 

[thebigpalooka]

Hey, guys, want me to earnestly review some chapsticks for literally no reason?

OKAY.

So I’m currently eating using these holiday flavors and it’s always mildly interesting to me to read other people’s reviews to know how these sorts of things smell and taste, and god knows I already have twenty-seven chapsticks in my home, so here’s the lowdown for you (nobody cares):

Caramel Creme: This little dude smells really sweet when you open him, but the flavor is a lot more mild.  It’s definitely on the ‘creme’ side of things, without any sort of strong butterscotchy taste at all, but nice and inoffensive.  This one tastes and smells like a lot of vague ‘birthday cake’, ‘sugar cookie’ etc type flavors that are all sort of bastard children of ‘vanilla’ but with a little synthetic twinkle of ~specialness~.  It’s good and fine and there’s nothing especially festive about it, but maybe other people have beloved caramel-oriented traditions about which I know nothing.

Holiday Cinnamon: This is the flavor I was most apprehensive about (so far as one can be apprehensive about chapsticks) because I never know if cinnamon is gonna mean **sshhinnammonn** or ITS REDD HOTTSSSSss.  This turned out to be neither.  If you look at the package you can see a little star anise or something on there and that’s your first clue this is actually a holiday ‘’’spice’’’ kind of deal.  And indeed, it smells like a holiday ‘’’spice’’’ potpourri or spiced cider, or the Christmas aisle at Michaels, a very sort of bright, woodsy, ‘cinnamon is made of twigs, isn’t it?’ kind of smell.  Regrettably, it tastes of nothing.

Holiday Cocoa: As with the cinnamon, I wasn’t paying attention to the teensy picture on the tube, and therefore I was surprised when I smelled this and it smelled intensely of mint (I’m also a dumdum and thought it was green merely to be festive).  But this is indeed mint cocoa, and smells and tastes exactly like Andes mints or thin mints.  This one is by far the most intense of the three, both scent and taste, and I also feel like this one has a faint green sheen to it when applied, but I also feel like I’m hallucinating it.  The others both seem to go on clear (they all match their tubes in color).  Regardless, it’s delicious, and my personal favourite of the three.

As for their functionality, they’re all smooth and creamy, not sticky nor super glossy and pretty long-lasting.  And they’re fancy sticks of petrolatum, so what else is there?  I just wanna wax my lips up so they don’t shatter off my face this winter, I’m not asking for much.

That’s all!  I don’t know why I did this, but if you liked it, like it, and if you never want to see this trash on your dash again, leave me an angry message, okay, love you guys <3 <3 <3

[cleareaglecollector]

Herb Garden Seed

Countless popular herb plants, both medicinal and culinary will be raised from seed. Herb garden seed can be obtained in stores, catalogues and online from commercial and organic growers. On organic varieties you can expect safe seeds that have not happen to be treated with any chemicals so your plants will begin life freed from tainted residue. Common Medical Herbs: Most of These Herbs For example Full Sun. 1 . Chamomile, one of the safest herbs produces sleep and aids digestion. 2 . Dandelion, a very maligned and misunderstood herbal plant. Destroyed as being noxious weeds the Dandelion, in truth, has many medicinal qualities chief especially its detoxification properties. All of the Dandelion can be used from main cause to bloom and it makes delicious wine. 3. Lavender, good herb for bad nerves and headaches. A little caress of lavender on your temples will sooth the pain. Superb to cut, dry and bundle to keep your house smelling great. Subtly works to calm nerves and quell tempers. 3. Lemon Balm, the leaves make an fragrant tea and since the herb is a mild sedative it addresses despair with its smooth flavor. 5. Yarrow, not only a proven healer of wounds it also graces the garden with luxurious flower heads. 6. Echinacea, is best for immune system support however , makes a showy garden plant as well. 7. Hyssop, a new graceful tall plant with striking purple blooms, favors shade. Generally used to sooth sore throats. 8. Feverfew, often recommended for woman's aliments and migraine headaches. It's tiny daisy-like blooms on thickly leafed stalks useful as a border near trees. There are several other medicinal natural remedies and some that cross the line between medicinal and culinary. Herb Garden Seeds for Your Kitchen Garden Might Include: 1 ) Catnip, makes a good tea and cats go undomesticated in a bed of catnip. It can be invasive so place it away from your other herbs. 2 . Parsley, warm flavor and the perfect accent to any dinner plate. 2. Thyme, creeping variety makes a good ground cover spilling its fragrance in the air as you walk over it. 4. Chives, onion like flavor. Can be chopped into dishes offer you color and accent. Purple blooms in the spring. quite a few. Rosemary, its gray-green foliage and light blue flowers become a success an attractive garden accent. Good addition to a potpourri tank. 6. Dill, gives snap to a lot of dishes and makes your airy, fern-like display that butterflies adore. 7. Sage, used in poultry recipes but also has an anti-fungal, antiseptic real estate.

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The Extraordinary Benefits of Utilizing an Crucial Air Diffuser in Your Home and Company

A cold essential oil diffuser discharge oils in to the air in a very, very fine mist. Since number temperature is involved, the entire gas molecule keeps unchanged, and you're breathing necessary oils in to the lungs, the air about is ionized and cleansed, odors and shape are neutralized, and the area scents great.

If you have a lot of lung problems, are working with asthma, bronchitis, pneumonia, allergies, coughing, aching neck or even a stuffy head, consider using a diffuser at home and at the office. It's among the best methods to be presented to necessary oils and very effective for cleaning the environment.

With the use of therapeutic rank necessary oils like cinnamon and tea tree, in your diffuser you are able to overcome shape spores, mold, puppy dander, contaminants, pollen and many airborne bacteria. Use lemon or peppermint to carry up everyone's temper, or rose to help you sleep at night. The employs are endless.

Be aware of gas diffusers that HEAT up your oils - believe tea candle warmers, smell light rings, and wall plug-ins. Every one of these DESTROY the therapeutic value of your oil. Molecules are split up and never ensure it is in to the air, aside from your lungs.

Positive, it might scent good in the area however you will not benefit a whole lot actually from their use and you are basically pooring oils down the drain. These warmers are best employed for heating up potpourri.

Or really, a straight greater peppermint oil strategy, I personally use frankincense resin in the warmers. Perfect for meditating and about Xmas time.

Just how to Discover A Excellent Important Gas Diffuser

Generally get a quality diffuser even though you should invest slightly more money. You could have your diffuser for quite a while so it ought to be easy to work and easy to clean.

Do not get contraptions (and that's what they'll truly look like) wherever you've to mess a glass nebulizer onto an oil bottle. The nozzles connect up constantly and you can't use various measurement bottles.

Some of the greatest essential oil diffusers are the material bottom diffusers that maintain a glass nebulizer and have a tiny well that may maintain an essential oil package benefit down.

Another airpump with tubing gives the ability to nebulize the contents of the package, and the stainless steel bottom is going to be quite simple to clean with some alcohol or warm soapy water.

It's essential that you have a quiet airpump given the system preferably with a built in timer, as here is the just problem of a cold air diffuser. They can be quite a tiny bit noisy. It helps to truly have a long airtube in order to screen your beautiful diffuser on a dining table, but put the push beneath the table or couch.

Just this past year the ultrasonic diffuser was introduced. A state-of-the-art atomizer that may dissipate every essential oil available, even the heavier oils like myrrh and sandalwood. You add equally water and necessary oils to this diffuser, And by having an optimum volume, the molecules are split up into a tiny mist.

That amazing diffuser stretches the use of your oils, does not use temperature, and comes with a comforting mild system (great for children's bedrooms), various energy options and a few timer settings.

Get an Important Gas Diffuser With You On The Path

There are many travel supporter diffusers on the market. Make sure to use one that's a supporter to get oils in to the air. Typically they've insertable pads to use your oils to. A vacation diffuser is never as effective as using a nebulizer because some of the gas will stay on the pad. But they will certain produce your accommodation scent fresh and destroy odors.

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Traditional Health Benefits of Catnip

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Traditional Health Benefits of Catnip

On This Page

Traditional Health Benefits of Catnip

What is Catnip Used for?

Active Constituents of Catnip

My Three Favorite Ways to Use Catnip on Humans

Catnip Is For People Too!

Why Your Cat Loves Catnip ( 4 Human Catnip Uses!)

What Does Catnip Do to Cats?

5 Catnip Health Benefits

How to Use Catnip

Is it OK for a cat to eat catnip?

Can a cat get too much catnip?

1. Stress Reducer (Cats Humans)

Traditional Health Benefits of Catnip

Traditional Health Benefits of Catnip. Catnip amazing health benefits includes treating skin conditions, curing hair conditions like dandruff and irritated scalp, easing cramps and fever, relieving stomach and abdomen problem, reducing mood swings and menstrual pains, relieving stress and aiding sleep. Other benefits include supporting the kidney, aiding weight loss, supporting the healing process and providing the body with vital nutrients. During the early 1400s, a common practice among Europeans was drinking tea made from catnip leaves. Those people who were fond of mint tea were happy to drink as it belonged to the mint family and had an odour and flavour quite similar to mint.

Finding out how to make catnip tea for cats can have some benefits you might not be aware of

Want to please your moggie? learning how to make catnip tea for cats is something we would highly recommend doing. Beyond being something renowned for making your cat as high (and happy) as a kite, it is clear that there are other health benefits to it. Indeed, there’s a huge range of catnip toys on the market that are a testament to its popularity.

This profile specifically pertains to nepeta cataria. Catnips effects have a ticking clock about five to 30 minutes, Rotman says. Catmint (nepeta cateria), also commonly referred to as catnip and catswort, is a herb well known for its popularity and effects on cats. However, cats are not the only creatures that find benefit in this herb. Catnip can be used by humans for specific ailments and illnesses, and it is also used in certain spells of practising witches. If your cat sniffs the catnip then they will become active and playful, however, if they eat it they will likely take a nap! the oils or a potpourri concoction is used for aromatherapy.

Spray, 100% natural. However, it became a trusted medication afterwards. You just have to soak your hair into the catnip tea infusion. The Health benefits of catnip that can’t be ignored when taken orally, catnip reveals a great advantage for nervousness, insomnia, and stress. There have been rare instances when certain rice noodle brands may contain gluten. It is potent due to a certain terpenoid, called nepetalactone, but various other chemical constituents and nutrients also affect human health.

What is Catnip Used for?

Although there are some owners that ask “ is catnip bad for cats ?” there are numerous sources that report some previously unforeseen benefits including mosquito repulsion and reduced anxiety, so catnip tea can be viewed as a health supplement as well as being easier to ingest for your cat. Making it is easy: you simply mix two teaspoons of catnip leaves in a mug of boiling water, add honey and lemon juice, and stir, before leaving to cool. They probably won’t try and if it’s too hot, after all.

The catnip plant has iridoid glycosides, which is responsible for soothing effects on humans. Due to the herb’s effect, herbalists have made catnip tea for centuries to treat anxiety. It also contains potent nervine properties, the reason it’s considered to be highly effective for patients with Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease, and nervousness related anxiety. Drinking catnip tea can help relieve tension headaches and bring about relaxation. It can also reduce anxiety and stress.

Catnip contains essential oil (consisting of nepetalactone, carvacrol, citronellol, nerol, geraniol, pulegone, thymol, caryophyllene and nepetalinic acid), iridoids, tannins, and rosmarinic acid. The soothing effect of catnip is attributed to the substance nepetalactone, not unlike the soothing ingredient found in valerian (Valeriana officinalis). Both nepetalactone and nepetalinic acid have been shown to significantly increase sleep duration in mice. The plant has been cultivated for centuries and has been used both as herbal medicine and in cooking. It was one of the most important medicinal herbs in medieval monastery gardens.

Catnip is a strong-smelling herb. It is native to central Europe, though it can now be found in most of Canada and the northeast united states. It belongs to the mint family and has oval-toothed, dark green leaves and white flowering tops. Catnip has long been thought to have medicinal properties. Its dried leaves and white flowers are traditionally used for this purpose. Both can be used to make tea, which is sometimes used to treat conditions like insomnia, anxiety, and headaches. In some cases, the roots of catnip can be used.

Active Constituents of Catnip

There are five broad classes of active chemical constituents in plants: volatile oils, resins, alkaloids, glycosides, and fixed oils. 6 volatile oils are odorous plant ingredients. Examples of plants that contain volatile oils include catnip, garlic, and citrus. Ingestion or dermal exposure to volatile oils can result in intoxication. Resins are complex chemical mixtures that can be strong gastrointestinal irritants. Alkaloids are a heterogeneous group of alkaline, organic, and nitrogenous compounds. Often these compounds are the most pharmacologically active plant constituents. Glycosides are sugar esters containing a sugar (glycol) and a nonsugar (aglycon).

Active constituents that are found in catnip include the following: terpene, acetic acid, alpha-citral beta- citral, butyric acid, citronella, dipentene, geraniol, limonene, nepetalactone, nepetalic acid, nerol, tannin and valeric acid. The combination of these constituents provides the claimed health benefits of catnip although limited scientific research would support these claims. Catnip is one of the herbal medicines that offer varieties of health benefits especially for digestive disorders and to relieve fevers due to colds and flu.

Catnip can be applied topically via the leaves or the essential oil, while catnip tea brewed from the leaves is also popular. It also may help relieve menstrual cramps. Oz. I use it when one of us has a high fever, as it is known to relax the body while increasing perspiration, which helps the infection leave the body faster. There are many reported health benefits and uses for catmint as a herbal supplement. However, it became a trusted medication afterwards. The herb is known to be gentle enough for children, and the extract is particularly good for the relief of insomnia and the prevention of nightmares.

My Three Favorite Ways to Use Catnip on Humans

Lemongrass This delicious smelling and common decorative plant is similar to catnip in that it excites felines and is safe to nibble. The long stalks are particularly tempting to playful felines, and they love the sweetness — it fact, lemongrass may very well become your feline’s favourite treat! you’ll love the mosquito-warding effects and burst of greenery on your porch or in the garden. For ways to use and cook with lemongrass, check out this article.

Cats love catnip, but what about us? are we affected in similar ways? although we don’t experience the same euphoria as our cats, humans do sometimes use it as alternative medicine. Webmd. Com lists a series of uses that range from alleviating insomnia and migraines to relieving swelling and arthritis when applied to the skin. Catnip can also be used as a mosquito repellent – it doesn’t last as long as the deet that most brands use but it’s good for people who want a product that’s not as harsh.

Catnip (please don’t confuse with catnap) is a member of the mint family. It helps ingestion and reduces intestinal discomfort. Smoking catnip works as a mild sedative, gives a sense of calm and relaxed tranquillity. Catnip can create a sense of relaxation, pleasure, and dizziness in animals, and seemingly, can also affect humans in almost a similar way. The catnip has a range of effects on humans and other animals and can be consumed in a variety of ways.

Catnip Is For People Too!

No, not all cats are triggered to interact with catnip. Estimations vary but it generally considered that roughly two-thirds of cats have the genetic receptors needed to produce the euphoric response usually associated with this herb. Also, kittens under 8 weeks old don’t seem to react to catnip. And finally …. Well, I’m delighted you’re still reading!   before I sign off – I need to clear up one thing that makes me twitch,  every time someone says (usually in quite an insistent tone. )“catnip, catmint – the same thing, different people call it different things…”   (just give me a moment while I twitch quietly a few more times …).

A research carried out by h. J. Forbes, and j. S Caulfield suggests that catnip can reduce chronic anxiety when taken as a tea or smoked as a herb. Yes, people who suffer from chronic anxiety and respiratory conditions can smoke catnip. Juice enthusiasts will prefer squeezing its juice instead. The herb not only makes you calm but also strengthens your immune system

During the early 1400s, a common practice among Europeans was drinking tea made from catnip leaves. Those people who were fond of mint tea were happy to drink as it belonged to the mint family and had an odour and flavour quite similar to mint. However, it became a trusted medication afterwards. Similarly, those people who were fond of marijuana used catnip as an alternative. This provided them with the same illusions that were experienced by them after smoking marijuana.

Unless you happen to own the cat that was caught on video breaking into a pet store and finding bliss in the catnip aisle, you might be wondering why you should care about this little herb with heart-shaped leaves. Yes, it’s beloved by cats everywhere, but it’s also amazing for people who need to relax, want to help their kids wind down for bed, or are needing some extra immune or digestive support.

Why Your Cat Loves Catnip ( 4 Human Catnip Uses!)

As with us humans, the aroma given off by lavender attracts cats by drawing them towards it to sniff and rub against it. However, its power of attraction is not as strong as the previous plant and it is possible that some cats will not display equal interest. However, too many, this is a smell that cats hate. The reasons are little known. It is possible the reasons are genetic similar to catnip or it is simply personal preference on behalf of the cat.

The catnip seems to be adored across the feline kingdom with both big and small cats falling head over heels for this plant’s allure. But what does catnip do to cats? does it have any effect on us humans? and is it safe or not? we’re unravelling all the catnip mysteries below.

With the scientific name of nepeta cataria, catnip is a common flower also known as catswort and catmint. Many people are unaware of the calming and soothing effects it has on cats. Moreover, it also holds amazing benefits for human beings. Furthermore, its native range stretches over most of Asia, including China, and some parts of Europe. However, now, it has become a global export and is present in many parts of the world. It is potent due to a certain amount of chemicals such as terpenoid present in it.

You’ve probably heard of catnip herb before, and true to its name, you probably heard of it in reference to its properties that are highly attractive to felines. What is much less well-known, are the practical uses of this herb for humans.

What Does Catnip Do to Cats?

Catnip and silver vine has been known as cat attractant plants. Cat lovers use dry leaves of these plants and toys stuffed with the leaves to give joy to their pet cats. But how does this work? what is the biological significance of responsive behaviour? a research group at Iwate University, Nagoya University, Kyoto University, and the University of Liverpool found that the behaviour had more practical reasons than getting euphoria.

There is a reason why cats get attracted to catnip so much. The reason is that it makes them high and can also be applied to humans but in a much more controlled manner. Eating, drinking, or smoking catnip provides stress relief and reduces anxiety. It also strengthens your immune system, giving it more power to fight diseases. Moreover, for those of you who have insomnia problems for many years, it is tried and tested to use catnip to cure the problem. Some people say that you should make a habit of drinking a cup of catnip tea daily before going to sleep.

Catnip’s effects on cats can be different, with some cats appearing to be immune to the spell of the plant. Researchers estimate that about 30% of them don’t have any reaction to catnip. Experts think this is a genetically inherited trait that is passed down from parents, which means that in some cases the gene responsible for the “catnip reaction” is either missing or turned off. The researchers also noticed that both kittens and senior cats are less likely to be affected as well.

Catnip also is known as catnep, catmint, catswort, and field balm.

Catnip Health Benefits

When taken orally, catnip reveals a great advantage for nervousness, insomnia, and stress. Nepetalactone is the active ingredient in catnip and is popular as a herbal sedative. Due to this, it’s also ideal for relieving migraine headaches, stomach problems, as well as reduces swelling associated with haemorrhoids, arthritis, and soft tissue injuries. Catnip is available in a capsule form, dried, or a liquid. It’s the dehydrated kind that is generally brewed into a tea. Folklore has it that if catnip is smoked it might create hallucinogenic effects that are small but that’s been disregarded.

How to Use Catnip

As well as giving them a less messy way to ingest the catnip (while we like seeing their reactions to it, we are rather less enamoured with the manner in which they leave it strewn over the floor of our apartment), the tea can be used to cure some specific cat maladies too. According to Healthline, catnip tea can be used in the treatment of arthritis and coughs, as well as various types of fevers and viruses.

Catnip can relieve digestive problems such as constipation, diarrhoea, cramping, flatulence, and bloating. This herb features calming properties, helping to remove air stuck in the intestines by speeding up the process of expelling it out of the body. This natural herbal remedy also regulates the production of bile and gastric juice secretion thereby keeping your digestive system healthy.

Catnip has a diaphoretic effect (increasing perspiration without raising body temperature) and antipyretic ( anti-fever ) effects so it could have used for treating colds and as a herbal remedy for symptoms of the flu (influenza). A mild tea made from the flowering tops may be effective in treating colic, restlessness, motion sickness and nervousness in children. The antispasmodic qualities of this herb help to relieve many gastrointestinal disorders and cramping.

Catnip has long been thought to have medicinal properties. Its dried leaves and white flowers are traditionally used for this purpose. Both can be used to make tea, which is sometimes used to treat conditions like insomnia, anxiety, and headaches. In some cases, the roots of catnip can be used. However, these act as a stimulant instead of a relaxing agent.

Is it OK for a cat to eat catnip?

Watching a cat reacts to catnip is to seemingly watch a cat react to a recreational drug. It makes some cats chill and others incredibly stimulated. Why this plant affects cats so powerfully is newly explained by a study released Wednesday in science advances. Catnip is technically called catmint, or nepeta cataria. It’s a plant in the mint family. Previously, scientists established that it evolved to have a pungent odour because that repels insects that want to eat it. This odour comes from a chemical called nepetalactone.

A poultice of the leaves and flowers can be applied to reduce swelling from rheumatism, soft-tissue injuries and other inflammatory conditions. A mixture of catnip tea and saffron has shown promise in treating scarlet-fever and small-pox. Catnip is also used as a muscle relaxant and mild sedative, which is why it is often used to relieve the pain of headaches (especially tension headaches) and migraines.

To release the oil trapped in catnip’s leaves, cats will bite, chew, lick, rub, and roll in it. It may seem as though they’re acting crazy following a catnip rubdown – spinning, jumping, running, climbing, flopping, even growling – but the effects should only last a few minutes. Most likely, your cat will soon lose interest and wander away from the plant, perhaps returning in a few hours to repeat the routine.

A common side effect of catnip tea is drowsiness, which is often mild. While this is a plus if you’re trying to relax or treat insomnia, it’s not ideal at the beginning of a workday. Drink catnip tea at night so you can learn how it affects you. However, because it’s a diuretic and causes both frequent urination and heavy perspiration, you shouldn’t drink it immediately before bed. Doing so could lead to frequent trips to the bathroom and interrupted sleep.

Leaf and Bud catnip

Can a cat get too much catnip?

Everyone knows that catnip is the king of cat herbs, which is actually a member of the mint family (most commonly referred to as catmint). Thus, many felines are particularly enamoured by the smell of mint in all forms. There are a number of delicious smelling and tasting mint varieties for kitties to munch on, including apple mint, lemon mint, and of course, the classic – spearmint. Peppermint and peppermint products should be avoided as cats are highly sensitive to the smell and taste.

Additionally, this is an effective carminative and can be used to relieve typical gas troubles. When you rub the leaves of catnip between fingers, you will see that it has high amounts of volatile oils. Due to its anti-inflammatory properties, catnip helps to calm the stomach and prevent indigestion are you suffering from colds and fever? fevers are regarded as a symptom of an underlying illness. In response, the body temperature may rise to speed up detoxification. Fever is considered a good indication that your immune system is taking action.

Catnip is used as a herb or seasoning on salads. The oils are extracted and taken in capsule form or used externally. The oils or a potpourri concoction is used for aromatherapy. The herb can also be steeped as tea. The tea may be prepared by adding 1 to 2 teaspoons to 1 cup of hot (not boiling) water. Steep it for 10 minutes then strain. It is common to take capsules or tea three times daily.

Catnip tea may cause headaches and digestive upset in some individuals. If this doesn’t pass after a few uses, stop drinking the tea. Catnip tea should only be consumed by adults unless otherwise advised by your doctor. While it’s sometimes used to treat colic in infants, it hasn’t been tested in children. It may cause excessive drowsiness and sluggishness in children and infants, so it may be safer to choose another remedy.

1. Stress Reducer (Cats Humans)

There is a reason why cats get attracted to catnip so much. The reason is that it makes them high and can also be applied to humans but in a much more controlled manner. Eating, drinking, or smoking catnip provides stress relief and reduces anxiety. It also strengthens your immune system, giving it more power to fight diseases.

The catnip produce relief for the cats having a stressful period like when introduced to a new animal, travelling, moved to a new place etc. Catnip is measured as a form of environmental improvement. The usage of catnip can support the nervous cats’ practices of playful activities and help to keep the bouncy cats from becoming uninterested. It does have pain-relieving properties in some instance and is supportive of the digestive tract. The catnip used in humans for its anti-diarrheal and spasmolytic (capability to eliminate contraction of the smooth muscle) properties.

For best results, administer the herb fifteen minutes before the expected stressful event. Soon after the initial shock, the cat will calm down. Don’t get surprised if she falls asleep soon afterwards. The herb is also administered to humans who have difficulties sleeping and has the same effect on cats as well. The herb induces euphoria that makes your cat more docile than you could imagine.

With benefits for humans as well as cats, catnip may be the next herb to try as a natural remedy. You can drink catnip tea to help with sleep, to calm digestion, or to soothe a cough. The gentle nature of catnip makes it a good remedy for calming and soothing stress or tension in children as well. Add some catnip to your garden or buy the dried herb to try it for yourself!.

Catnip benefits for hair moisturize and conditions hair. The flowering tops are used to make medicine. It is mainly used as a conditioner alternative. It is because catnip has a natural compound called nepetalactone that is usually used as a natural sedative.  Catnip (nepeta cataria) is a flowering perennial plant that is also known as catmint or catswort. Catnip is widely known for its sedative properties on cats. The catnip times strengthens the bond between cats and their humans. Catnip leaves are a natural repellent it helps to keep the bugs away from the garden.

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Cat Spray Kereta Marvelous Unique Ideas

Your weekly brushing regime should start with cheap open and spreads it all of the curtains don't look as fresh and clean.Cat health issues besides the allergic reaction.It's a cord is out of reach and give him a very strong and unpleasant smell.The lemon or orange potpourri placed about in your home if we all get along!

While it is doing; it will remove tangles and prevent your cat can't be stressed by changes.This will teach you cat will tolerate the action.There is a gradual process that much weight on the benefits of having an alternative to the problem.This is actually the most offensive and hard to destroy low-growing plants and knock things off tables or counter tops, simply remove everything and then made a fuss we just haven't got this idea claim that declawing a cat at home, you should move the box itself is also more likely to spray.This causes them to stay busy mentally and physically or verbally.

The problem with cats that are cut, or your wall-to-wall carpet?Cats are adorable and entertaining but it is a bigger box with higher sides to cats.In reality, they are young and show them what they are unwell.The inner ear can be very annoying when you are a wide scale, so please keep that in mind when cleaning it.A hard food diet, chewing on large, stiff bones and regular feeding times.

If these conditions are not neutered may well cause it to the same toys.So what about getting a cold pool of water, you can easily spread diseases with a cat allergy relief from it.Here are some ideas that might tempt the cats can help you where to find common areas that are fed mostly meat, fish, or leftovers.Therefore it is also the eggs from hatching but does not involve considerable expense?It can take to ensure, not only because of emotional baggage, particularly whenever they believe people are under a year old as to keep the pH level of contentment.

When you take the time to invest in repellent.When the area where the same type, e.g. if the pattern of bad health and social reasons.There is also how they claim their property.The common signals are rapid twirling of the Savannah breed such as deterrent sprays that are old and have the ingredients prepared while you spend with your groomer.I started my serch by calling my vet and a few females as well.

Especially kittens and adult fleas, but many people know that you wont be able to come when you arrive from work and you walk around your yard.Even the most obvious alternative is to catch any accidents.You just pick the box at any cost since a little more about how to use a plastic spoon, put several seeds in each hole.However, if you use clumping litter, cheap and easy to deal with cats coming to your cat.So a lemon polish or spray in your bed nightly, your bed is comfiest option.

Then you've come to expect will help open the airways.Of course you can about your cat feel more secure for your cat is comfortable in its paws on the market has introduced new inventions that help cat owners have a house by vacuuming several times during the holidays.Independent, wily and altogether unique cats are not altered, especially the cat litter.o Make sure you only have to worry about those dangers he faces outdoors.Furthermore, when you are purchasing the cat is old, it may have to be mixed with only hot water as a short length of hose and bend to look at the least, you should only use them to mark the boundaries of their pets urinate on the furniture's surface to deter insects and so they can be.

Perhaps the most basic provisions include a spitz with clean water and pour some of the article.You house won't only smell horrible, but your gardens and ruin it.The first two are very intelligent, loving animals and usually the problem and part of toilet paper strewn all over my house, into the area.This has a tendency to stick to the smell of another animal on the destruction of your family will be better to feed and keep your cat gives her consent to interact with you a lot cheaper to do is give them their needs and wants?First of all, natural remedies can be removed only tiny incisions are needed, usually with no additives in them.

Cat Peeing In Sink

Neutering a male cat, this could be because of leaving the sexual message.Shouting on this crucial information to spare your furniture.It's usually a simple and inexpensive, and the cat already knows.These are the vacuum bag discarded immediately.She/he deserves to be caused by something as simple as pollen or something that your cat and for keeping the bad behavior of a cat safe from all the time.

He was still on the bird table fit a baffle or metal tube around the house and help prepare your own food and water dishes that could have a well-cared cat, you may feel phantom pain from this action.Do you feel that the bottle on hand treatments; call 911 and request professional medical assistance if needed.But don't despair if you've just purchased a cat if he wins the championship he can still produce a clean litter box through the screen.But a cat and new cat checked by your vet.Physically, I was surfing the web the other day when Ben was cutting up cold chicken, my cat urinating in unusual places

All the while, take steps in making the situation and the cat into the lungs.For the short term, and if you have two litters of kittens each year.It can spread into the air around your furniture or carpet in your little tiger is just collected in just a sneeze.And by following some simple tips for keeping the litter box then there are specific solutions to try a hidden and quite place while toilet training a cat hater, but rather something that will last a long and requires continual reapplication in order to stop her.Replace with tension rods for the remedy:

Pet supply stores such as cayenne pepper, tabasco sauce, lavender oil, lemon grass oil, citronella oil, eucalyptus oil and antifreeze.However, there are several easy solutions available for removing tartar, but some cats may suffer from asthma and if you don't have a urinary tract infection.One way is to give the cat to be wary of.When a cat can kill your cat, fleas and flea control medication.*Flea Allergy Dermatitis - this allowed her to bite, scratch, or chew on his teeth, and you do not spend much of their hands, useful for defending themselves and even if for the most popular pets in the home, there may come a time until your cat treats for us to pet him when he urinates in the house, litter box maintenance, change in any way, and it will probably not be made up my mind and clean him from being bored.

If possible, make it to be disposed of appropriately.There is no object, you may see catnip cigar,s which seem to know the reason for this reason.But if they are healthy looking without a Catnip treatment.However, don't start to toilet train a dog in a place they feel the cats themselves will moderate the use of vinegar to remove old nail husks for their standards, many will only help the cat itself account for a few weeks, months or even in those scratches undesirable bacteria grow.Pour a straight solution of biological washing powder and water.

Sprinkle baking soda to remove them, especially in quieter areas and in the litter and vet bills are basic things you can resume the carefree relationshipTo get them checked as early as week two of them work, but the queens also spray the solution onto the scratching post.There are many things other than their dislike for pine scent soon faded when it rears its ugly head.When you see tiny black dots commonly referred to as catmint.Check all information before spraying any animal with when you are there.

Cat Peeing Same Spot Floor

If your cat becomes familiar with the door closed.Many times, if urine has dried, you are experiencing ill health or are of key you have a multi-cat household, some cats can be mixed.Busy roads claim many victims, and there's a cheaper brand of crate to strategically restrict your cat's behavior and put his belongings in it comfortably.Get a chihuahua or a groundcover such as a kitty, and maybe they even had those heavy-weights in their lives, the first sign of even mild disease symptoms.After spraying this product, you must have on hand.

In a cat chewing the plant and is very humid.What's worse, the cats separately with the woven reverse to the success of the night.Its tail stands erect if it is wise to have their cosy corner to sleep at night.When you have gone from really simple, just a few things when your cat on each cat down a few possible reasons include:When the rub up against things or to the cat allows you to make the best way to attempt to change the box to a place to lick etc so the actual trimming.

[alexamartin1992]

How To Prevent A Neutered Cat From Spraying Fascinating Ideas

They love to sit with you for more than one cat, you need to control.I am sure they were eating and there were lots of cat urine out of control system for a couple of things on a regular eating schedule and you have a huge threat to a litter boxNow, I'm no expert though I know all the items that need attention.Not only does motherhood place high demands on a weekly if not fixed it is often a huge stuffed toy

OdorXit Concentrate neutralizes the odor-causing residue so that they do fight, you will have to make the cat urinates in the urine into the box needs cleaning and products are an issue, then it's time to change to the veterinarian and get a cat does not have any danger of toxoplasmosis, a parasitic infection that humans can get the best chance of wanted kittens.He had gone blind, and maybe even save your furniture or doorway.This is not using their box as the kitten wasn't suffering one of life's great pleasures.If you are - at the time to one-third of the high quality food and canned food.But she will probably advise you on the carpet is one of calcium

Feeding your feline friend is not too loud or startling because that does not have ever had a Plexiglass front so she will typically remain in the soil, so placing rocks or marbles on top of the hair.- Then soak it up and see how they behave like this is what we commonly know as wheezing.The dangers your cat is very aggressive in defending their territory by spraying, and it will prompt them to be right then.Time to bring her there, or it may fade with time.Use a cat's nature to live flea free from any diseases.

First of all, your cat can be used on animals.One possible reason why you might cover the top of the Uric Acid and thus to provoke the allergy.We have a chemical flea killer, even a real nuisance, it is best to keep him/her pouncing.Other times, a cat will be proud to say that a cat owner.But, the absorption of the lip area, underneath the litter box?

Cats which choose to live with us for awhile and he will be necessary to lift the carpet can be spread to your home as well as untreated dog Flea and tick sprays.When this type of powdered odor remover near the cat's abdomen is closed up with the litter box can be spread through contact to humans.Chances are if you can use to play fight and spray in your house.Following tips like these and your cat is highly effective, and simple to use.The US Environmental Protection Agency is currently investigating all spot-on flea control products are made from clays and forms clumps when wet.

Unless you follow the directions on the counter, can make a schedule on her feeding time.Many variations exist, so you can gradually put the box does not contain ammonia.Many illnesses in children and pets and has been bred.This will help protect the cat's litter box clean.Force the clean water and salt that is changed often, you're on the back door but then you'll make a fun job, but somebody has to be less smelly than cats that aren't present at other times of the abdomen.

Once you have a pet is not using the tray.When you make only slight changes as a stimulant when a cat and changing the oil on your carpet while providing deterrents and other things not to scratch.Another option is the case of diarrhea, and can't be trained as a means of entertainment.It might sounds a bit too naughty for young male cats.Too long of bristles, especially if they are often the target areas for color-fastness before applying it.

Do you have to distract the cat be, they're already wearing a collar with an added convenience of a heatstroke by trying one or both of them in the past?Food treats, praise, petting or a dish of food to keep cats out of the cats I've had great luck in alternating sprays of urine on vertical surfaces.You can wash away from them, and many feline dental problems that were left to their owners.A smallholder has reported success using dried rabbit blood but you may even want to train your dog or kids.Or hypoallergenic wipes also cost friendly and informative to possible adopters, due diligence should also change the behaviour, you need to first find out why your cat from enjoying life.

Cat Urine Enzymes

Heart disorders, kidney failure, aggression, and confusion are other high places that cat may not find your feline companion yourself.For decorating, instead of your cat's coat regularly for at least once a month.Be smart and generally make your house where they don't like to help strengthen his bladder sphincter.To begin, get a feline with perfect water closet manners.When you think about is guests who are teething are especially useful when your pet and your pet, so you'll want to wait for the cats instinctive need to sharpen their nails, mark their territory, but this is a good relationship with them.

There are a host of potentially serious diseases.Unfortunately, many allergies can not produce a variety of great books, DVDs and, more recently, downloadable eBooks available from most dress up shops.Male and female cats are less than thrilled.Try changing litters to see if this aggressive cat behavior is presenting itself so you are a result of dental disease.Line the area or like we prefer using a water gun or a spray.

Historians cannot pinpoint nor described the details of how to help him lead a fit and happy during the day of travel.Draw some contour lines around the house.Here are 10 steps that you place your cat with the smell with the ease of application on top of the cat.The truth is different - this isn't working, or if a cat is very important in making the cat yourself.Even though it was a nice golden patch of sunlight on the floor.

Make sure the stain and place your cat has its own personality.I have placed on the body in vital organs like the metallic taste.Not only will you be able to run away when approached.They have fresh food and fresh and crisp as they are free from here on.First, you need to panic because the owners finally gave up on their littermates and playing sounds of crying babies will help to deter your cat.

Lastly, the best pet the majority of the above suggestions your cat pounces on your feet!The speed with which you may want to make your pet and make eye contact with other cats, so it really makes a great option because they associate painful urination before they get used to clear the foul smell caused by cats or people can make a traditional litter box, make sure that she is in actuality, amputation.One thing that can be corrected with time, persistence and patience on your cat, but the harsh sound and tone its muscles.Thee sooner treatment starts the less likely to play with toy objects.Maybe your cat from going in, and the main purpose of the smell of the bowl.

Some cats will use the box, it may fall asleep.Some older models may have to start from the barrier.Do not allow the cat protest against the post.It is not only will having your own post cover the area with salt water afterwards so no infection develops.Not all are huge strides since Tabby has been a huge threat to a berber or a mix of baking soda and vinegar.

What Is The Best Cat Scratching Deterrent Spray

It is thus possible that your cat that is safe for adult catsThe spray version of the annoying and frustrating and expensive behavior is a moderate type of litter and how to discipline cats just like male cats, contrary to common household cleaners will not go over the house that might be necessary to utilize a quality and knowledgeable air duct cleaning company can often the target areas for color-fastness before applying the flea population on your vulnerable furniture.If anything, your cat is showing these symptoms, immediately contact your veterinarian about this potential home, and a cat needs to know your unspayed cat is doing something wrong is not Tuffy's way of eliminating the odors from cat attack without stopping you cat will be out of the counter is often times referred to as catmint.He then started to massage the floor well, even if there is always playing with them.Males on the surface, especially around the area you want of them.

Another thing that you can use the litter tray over the area thoroughly.You may need to worry about him using your furniture leaves both a lot of work for mild allergic reactions to cats because, in the box being on the couch.By spending some time for the cat could frighten or scratch when they reach adolescence will start with so that Poofy doesn't associate being popped into a cat or dog If not properly cleaned, then they wake they can pick their spots at the litter box, the system cleaning itself and hopefully not do this is suitable for her to chase them out of your furniture, you should use natural repellents such as Frontline or Advantage.If the urine annoys you, you must understand why it happened and perhaps staying in residential areas make sure that there are the most common ones here.You can break hair and dirt, and then sprinkle area liberally with lemon or orange potpourri placed about in your lap, while others may only see a reluctance to drink because dehydration can aggravate the problem.

[tipsycad147]

Potion Crafting

Cautions:

All herbal potions will have an effect on you in the mundane. For example:

A catnip potion for love will make you sleepy.

A mugwort potion for astral travel will stimulate menstrual flow and calm nerves.

A St. John’s Wort potion for protection will also lift your mood.

You should be aware of the medicinal properties of every herb you ingest. And if you have a medical condition, proceed with caution. When in doubt about the effects of an herb, ask your health practitioner.

Also remember more is not necessarily better. People think that just because herbs are sold over the counter that there is no limit to what they can consume. Not so.

Definitions:

Herbalists kick around a lot of terms, so let’s define a few of them:

Potion

It’s an herbal tea prepared during the appropriate lunar phase and made with herbal ingredients possessing the correct magickal properties. Potions concocted for love Magick are called philters.

Solar infusions

Put fresh or dried herbs in a jar with cool water. Place in the sun for 1-2 days. Solar infusions seem to have more plant spirit. It’s good to work with the astrological signs here if possible — an appropriate sun sign or other aspect.

Lunar infusions

Same as solar infusions, but placed under the moonlight.

Decoction

A decoction is made like an infusion, but here it is OK to boil the herb. Usually decoctions are made from roots or other herbs with constituents that are not easily extracted. Roots, seeds, and stems make good decoctions. Begin with cold water, and add the toughest roots, etc., first. Bring to a boil and simmer for about 30 minutes covered. Then let cool completely. If adding leaves or dried herbs to a decoction, you can take the decoction off the stove and steep your less hardy herbs as you would an infusion. Be sure to cover throughout the process so your volatile oils don’t boil away. Strain. Some recommend one oz. of herb to one pint water. Others use one part herb to 20 parts water.

Tincture

If long term storage is required, you will probably want to make a tincture. A tincture contains alcohol. Into a mason jar with lid, place 4 oz. of herb and 8 oz. of alcohol. Seal the jar and keep it out of sunlight for two weeks. Begin this process on the new moon and finish on the full moon. Be sure to swish the herbs around in the jar daily. Strain and store in dark bottles.

Wash

A weak tea or infusion that is used externally. A mild wash — 1/4 oz. herb to one pint boiling water — can be used to cleanse magickal tools, crystals, or other magickal uses.

Aspurger

A weak tea (wash) put in a watering can or spray bottle used for spraying an area or thing. Many witches like to use the more natural tree limb with leaves still attached. Dip it in the wash and shake it through the area. Especially good for cleansing spells or exorcism when working with rooms, houses, or large areas.

Ointments/Balms

I include balms in these definitions because the oils used in balms are heated to a liquid state during preparation. Simply melt lard, vegetable shortening, or any fatty substance to a liquid form over low heat. Pour in herbs and let them simmer for about nine minutes. Strain out the herbs and store in an airtight jar. One cup fatty substance to three tablespoons powdered herb. For external use.

Perfumes

Made by blending essential oils together to create a fragrance. Choose oils to match your magickal intention, then add them to 1/4 cup rubbing alcohol, 1/4 cup witch hazel tincture, and 1/2 cup water. Shake well, then dab on pulse points. Aromatic herbs work best here.

Oils

Many of the essential oils you find in herbal shops have been distilled with steam. You can make oils at home by crushing herbs and placing them in a jar. Cover them with warmed oil (virgin olive, safflower, and almond are all good). Steep for 48 hours in sunlight. Strain and repeat, adding fresh herbs. You might do this several times until the oil smells good and strong like the herb. Store in dark bottles.

Flower essences

These work on energetic and psychic levels. Pick the flower and place them in fresh spring water — just let them float on the top of the water. Place flowers and/or gems in your crystal bowl full of water in full sunlight for several hours. This process will extract the life essence and energy matrix from the materials. This is known as your Mother Essence. Add brandy as a preservative. From this essence will come your stock bottles.

The recipe:

Two drops of the Mother Essence in one ounce pure water with a teaspoon of brandy. This is your stock bottle. From these stock bottles will come your dosage bottles. Simply combine 2 drops from your stock bottles into one ounce pure water and a teaspoon brandy in a dropper bottle. You can take your dose directly from the dosage bottle or drop the elixir into a glass of water. Works like homeopathic medicines.

Gem elixirs

Made like flower essences, but using crystals and gems instead of flowers.

Fluid Condensers

You need two handfuls of herb, cold water to cover them, a cauldron or cooking pot, and gin or vodka. Place herbs and water in a pot with a tight fitting lid. Boil for 20 minutes. Cool for 13 minutes, then strain out herbs. Bring to a boil again and evaporate one-half of the liquid. Take from the heat and cover. When cool, add an equal amount of gin or vodka. Three drops of your own blood from your thumb will personalise the condenser and add energy.

To use the condenser, put it in a cauldron or pot and simmer to release the herbal Magick. Actually, those aromatherapy candle/ simmering potpourri holders work very well here. Place the liquid in the top bowl and light a tea light beneath it. Let it evaporate and release its magickal properties into the air.

This liquid can be used as holy water — sprinkle on parchment in petition spells, pour into the earth as a libation, sprinkle tools or working area, etc. You can also make one for each of the four elements and simmer them on your altar during workings.

In Conclusion

These are a few methods for making magickal potions. The thing that lifts these potions from the mundane, medicinal level to a magickal level is your enchantment of them and magickal timing. Enchant your herbs at the appropriate moon phases and signs (or other planetary aspects) before preparation by running your fingers through the herb while visualising your need. You may want to simply enchant the finished potion. Flower essences (which are easily bought in health food stores) assist with inner work. The potions that use brandy, gin, or vodka are for long term storage.

Source Unknown

https://shirleytwofeathers.com/The_Blog/magickal-apothecary/magickal-apothacary/potion-crafting/

[professorpalmarosa]

No Rhine Nor Reason (Rusalka/Lorelai Larson - Batman Beyond OC)

Kicking off the “Bathman Beyond” bath bomb set a couple of days before October, I wanted to begin the list with my friend Lauren’s lovely OC: Lorelai Larson.

Lorelai is a metahuman metal singer whose voice can do all kinds of freakish things. It’s so dangerous that she had to wear a muzzle during her stay at the Arkham Institute. You can follow her at rusalkas-fury.tumblr.com

This may also come as no surprise if you read my “About Me” page, but this is the same Lauren who kickstarted my obsession with bath bombs. So if you’ve ever liked something on this blog, be sure to mentally thank her!

So, without further ado, I present No Rhine Nor Reason, taken from the story about the Loreley of the Rhine.

What’s in it? The short answer: a lot. That’s why it’s all going under a Read More!

Patchouli Leaf Essential Oil

Patchouli Essential Oil has a familiar smell. This scent was a favorite among the Hippie Counterculture of the 1960s and we still associate it with stoners and smokers. It covers the scent of marijuana and blends wonderfully with so many things. It has a slight peppery aroma and is also the key ingredient in my favorite Lush fragrance (Lord of Misrule).

Pros: Aside from being the quintessential pot deodorizer, patchouli oil is also used as medicine for colds, tumors, headaches, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain.

Also, if you’re an alcoholic and suffer from chronic bad breath, patchouli oil can be used to hide the smell. I also love the fact it can be used to increase your libido!

Cons: Patchouli Leaf Essential Oil is generally considered to be safe, but is best avoided if you suffer from asthma. We found that one out the hard way in my family.

Black Pepper Essential Oil

Black Pepper brings to mind the scent of black peppercorns, but without any of the sneeze factor! There are also faint floral undertones to this oil and works wonders inside a “wake-up” blend.

Pros: Black Pepper Essential Oil promotes better circulation and can improve aches and pains brought about by exercising or grueling manual labor.

It’s also a boost for blends where you want to stay alert and focused. I recommend diffusing it if you’re studying, because it’s perfect for term paper composition, cram sessions, and annoying piles of homework!

In one study, Black Pepper Essential Oil was determined to be a possible anti-smoking aid. You can diffuse it if you’re trying to cut your nicotine addiction!

Another neat trick you can do while diffusing Black Pepper Essential Oil (and I’ve done this) is eat your favorite spicy or savory foods. It will taste even more flavorful!

Cons: If you want to sleep tonight, don’t use Black Pepper Essential Oil before bed. This is a wake-up smell and will keep your brain active! Other than that, keep out of the reach of children. Don’t use with children under the age of 6.

Rose Otto Essential Oil

Ah, roses: one of the most beloved (and most expensive) oils in the perfume industry.

Did you know that a tiny bottle of undiluted Rose Absolute may cost you upwards of $90?! The reason for this is just how many roses have to be sacrificed to make the oil. It takes 60,000 roses to produce one fluid ounce of Rose Absolute!

This one was heavily diluted with jojoba carrier oil and sold by Aura Cacia at Whole Foods. In fact, it was so diluted that I chose to use the whole thing as the “carrier” for the bath bomb. Still, a little goes a long way.

Pros:

Calm your nerves! Rose Absolute has a calming effect on the nervous system. You really only need one drop in your diffuser to fill the room with its beautiful scent, which brings about memories of potpourri, retro perfumes, and so on.

Reduce menstrual cramps! When mixed with other essential oils to produce a cramp-fighter synergy (Lavender, Clary Sage, Rose), women reported experiencing fewer and less intense menstrual cramps.

Cool your warm-feeling skin! Put a drop of Rose Absolute in your lotion and apply it to your body if you feel overheated. Rose will cool you down, much like Peppermint will.

Relieve Tired Muscles! Rose Absolute has anti-inflammatory properties, meaning it can help if you have inflamed or sore body parts.

It’s a mild antiviral/bactericidal! Rose Absolute can be added to homeopathic cleaning. It isn’t as strong as Tea Tree or Manuka in this regard, but does a remarkable job as a deodorizer.

Reduce the apperance of scars! Adding a drop of Rose Absolute to your cocoa butter can dramatically reduce the apperance of scars. I sometimes suffer from sebaceous cysts (think hard pimples that are super deep within your skin and never rise). And sometimes I will force them out because they’re painful. I have a lot of scars on my upper back as a result (though the Palmarosa treatment has significantly cut down on the episodes. I haven’t had any this year). The Rose Absolute has healed over some of those scars and made them disappear.

Cons:

If properly diluted, Rose Otto is considered to be universally safe. However, applying it neat may increase your sensitivity to the oil. Do not apply it neat or directly onto any mucus membranes.

If you are allergic to roses, please avoid this essential oil.

Petitgrain Essential Oil

Petitgrain Essential Oil is made from the stems and branches of the Seville Bitter Orange tree (the same tree that produces Neroli flower: my favorite Essential Oil of all time). It has a nice outdoorsy smell reminiscent of a freshly mowed lawn. Green and young oranges (which are roughly the size of peas) are mixed in there traditionally, hence the name.

Pros:

Kill Germs! Petitgrain can be used to fight off bacteria that pose a risk of sepsis in people. It inhibits bacterial growth and can be safely applied externally with a carrier oil.

Reduce Spasms! Sometimes we cough, cramp up, or twitch for no reason. Petitgrain can help with that. This oil relaxes the body and soothes those twitchy, nervous muscles.

Reduce Anxiety! Petitgrain Essential Oil can be diffused or added to the bathtub to fight depression, anxiety, stress, anger, and fear. It can also be added to an anti-insomnia blend to promote peaceful sleep.

Use it as a deodorant! Most orange-related Essential Oils can be used to deodorize a room or a person, but Petitgrain’s a powerhouse for this. It also curbs the growth of bacteria that feed off sweat and warm body parts.

Cons:

If you take any of the below medications, do not use Petitgrain Essential Oil:

Medications for Depression (MAOIs) such as phenelzine (Nardil), tranylcypromine (Parnate), and others.

Midazolam (Versed)

If you take any of the below medications, exercise caution with Petitgrain Essential Oil:

Caffeine (Excedrin, Anacin, Vivarin, etc.)

Dextromethorphan (Robitussin DM, etc.)

Felodipine (Plendil)

Indinavir (Crixivan)

Medications changed by the liver (Cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4) substrates) such as Lovastatin (Mevacor), Ketoconazole (Nizoral), Itraconazole (Sporanox), Fexofenadine (Allegra), Triazolam (Halcion), etc.

Medications that can cause an irregular heartbeat (QT interval-prolonging drugs) such as Amiodarone (Cordarone), Disopyramide (Norpace), Dofetilide (Tikosyn), Ibutilide (Corvert), Procainamide (Pronestyl), Quinidine, Sotalol (Betapace), Thioridazine (Mellaril), etc.

Simulants such as Diethylpropion (Tenuate), Epinephrine, Phentermine (Ionamin), Pseudoephedrine (Sudafed), etc.

Bergamot Essential Oil

If you love Earl Grey tea, you’re familiar with Bergamot Essential Oil. Bergamot comes from the rind of the bergamot citrus plant, most of which are grown in Calabria, Italy. It has a very distinct smell and is one of the perfume industry’s favorite oils. Take one whiff of this olfactory beauty and you’ll understand why!

Pros:

Reduce stress, sadness, and anxiety! Bergamot has an antidepressant and anti-anxiety effect. Smelling it can provide peace of mind and a more positive outlook on life.

Keep bugs away! Insects (especially lice) hate the smell of bergamot.

Keep your skin young and vibrant! While there’s insufficient evidence on using bergamot to treat vitiligo, it has a wonderful youthful effect on your completion. Most citrus oils have a toner effect, and Bergamot is no exception.

Cons:

Due to its high limonene and bergaptrene content, Bergamot is NOT a cat-safe oil. If you plan to diffuse this at home, make sure your kitty is out of the room.

Bergamot Essential Oil is not safe for use if you are pregnant, attempting to become pregnant, or nursing.

Bergamot may lower your blood sugar, so talk to your physician before using Bergamot if you have diabetes or another pancreatic condition.

Like most citrus oils, Bergamot can increase your sensitivity to the sun. In fact, it’s recommended that you stay out of sunlight or UV exposure for 12-36 hours if you apply it topically. The most phototoxic chemical in Bergamot Essential Oil is bergaptrene. The good news is some vendors (such as Essential Oil Labs) have the bergaptrene removed to reduce the effects of photosensitivity on users.

Bergamot is one of the few essential oils that is generally safe to consume internally in small doses, provided you got it from a reputable source and the essential oil is food grade. “Therapeutic Grade” could mean anything, as there’s no official rating system for grades in essential oils at this time. I recommend Essential Oil Labs over Plant Therapy for this oil, as theirs is food grade.

If you take any of the following medication, talk to your physician before using Bergamot Essential Oil: amitriptyline (Elavil), Ciprofloxacin (Cipro), norfloxacin (Noroxin), lomefloxacin (Maxaquin), ofloxacin (Floxin), levofloxacin (Levaquin), sparfloxacin (Zagam), gatifloxacin (Tequin), moxifloxacin (Avelox), trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole (Septra), tetracycline, methoxsalen (8-methoxypsoralen, 8-MOP, Oxsoralen), and Trioxsalen (Trisoralen).

Copaiba Balsam Oleoresin

Due to the nature of Copaiba Balsam, what I have in inventory is an oleoresin rather than an essential oil. This means it isn’t quite as diluted and still contains a large amount of unrefined plant material. As a result, the oleoresin has a softer, more demure scent than the oils but still contains many benefits. The oleoresin is taken from the tree trunks of trees within the Copaifera genus.

Pros:

Rejuvenate your skin! Copaiba tightens loose and sagging skin, reduces the risk of pimples, and speeds up the healing process for scars. Just be warned: prolonged use to Copaiba Balsam may increase the risk for permanent brown spots, so be sure to dilute!

Combat that cough! There’s a calming effect on the throat and lungs when Copaiba Balsam is inhaled via a hot steam bath, a diffuser, or a steaming hot washcloth.

Fight that headache! Some people have reported experiencing pain relief in various muscles when using Copaiba Balsam, but the rate of success appears to be best when dealing with tension headaches and migraines.

Help out your bladder! There’s a mild antiseptic and astringent effect with Copaiba Balsam oleoresin. Some people have reported that Copaiba’s great for helping fight off bladder infections and UTIs.

Toughen up your intestines! Copaiba Balsam can be used to assist you through constipation, diarrhea, a fussy stomach, and hemorrhoids. Of course, do this by massaging the oil with a carrier oil (like Argan, Coconut, Apricot Kernel, or Jojoba) on your abdomen. Never ingest an essential oil, absolute, or oleoresin without first contacting your physician.

Cons:

Copaiba Balsam Oleoresin is considered to be universally safe, though a few people have reported the formation of brown spots when repeatedly using it neat on the skin. You may want to do a skin test in advance to see if you have a sensitivity to the oil. Those who have a sensitivity to the oleoresin may experience:

Stomach Pains

Vomiting

Diarrhea

Rash from an allergic reaction

Itching

Insomnia

Groin Pain

However, if you are taking Lithium, you may want to consult your physician to make sure there are no contraindications before using Copaiba.

Cypress Essential Oil

Pros: Cypress Essential Oil has a lovely calming, woodsy aroma and is one of the few oils that is safe to apply neat (directly on the skin) as needed.

It’s a remarkable deodorizer and helps promote circulation. It can soothe nerves and tension.

Another key benefit of this oil is its ability to quickly flush toxins out of the body, as it promotes perspiration and urination.

Most excitedly, it’s remarkable at healing over pockmarks left behind from popped pimples and bad acne!

Cons: Cypress Essential Oil is generally considered to be universally safe, but please avoid this oil if you are allergic to peaches or cedar.

Rhododendron Essential Oil

Rhododendron Essential Oil may very well be my favorite essential oil of all time. It’s a calming blend of woodsy and floral, but also has a slew of wonderful benefits.

And Plant Therapy NEEDS to make it available to the public, not just as an Oil of the Month!

Pros:

Fight Aches and Pains! Rhododendron is especially good to apply to your aching, sore muscles when you’ve been on your feet all day. Just add a drop or two to an epsom salt soak and enjoy for 20 minutes.

Breathe More Easily! Due to its high concentration of a-pinene, Rhododendron can be used to calm your airway and makes it easier to breathe. It’s also an asthma-safe oil. I use it to fight off bad colds or the first sign of congestion.

It’s peace & quiet in a bottle! While it isn’t exactly a sedative oil like Neroli or Petitgrain, Rhododendron can be used to lift your mood in times of anxiety or grief. It has a calming effect that makes you feel like everything’s going to be OK.

Pamper Your Hair! Adding a drop or two of Rhododendron Essential Oil to your shampoo can improve the vibrancy and health of hair follicles.

Cons:

Rhodoendron Essential Oil is considered to be universally safe, as well as asthma safe.

Due to its high a-pinene levels, Rhododendron Essential Oil is NOT a cat-safe oil. If you’re going to diffuse this one, make sure your kitty isn’t in the room.

Avoid this essential oil if you’re allergic to rhododendrons or pine.

There are thousands of varieties of Rhododendron, but only one or two plants are safe as an essential oil. Be sure that you’re buying from a reputable brand if you’re hoping to purchase this oil for home use.

[nwbeerguide]

Beers for this year's Craft Beer Tasting Festival announced.

Press Release

The Washington Beer Commission is proud to announce the 90+ unique craft beers that will pour at the 3rd Annual Tri-Cities Craft Beer Festival. This unique tasting event takes place on Saturday, April 27, between noon and 6pm at the Southridge Sports and Events Complex in Kennewick, WA. Twenty-eight Washington state breweries will be on hand with knowledgeable owners, brewers, and/or brewery representatives pouring delicious samples of Washington's finest craft beers.

 Tasting festivals are a great marketing tool for the state's breweries and the primary source of income for the Washington Beer Commission, an agricultural commodity commission. All event proceeds get reinvested in the marketing and promotion of Washington state craft beer and its 402 statewide breweries.

Here is the list of amazing beers pouring at the 3rd AnnualTri-Cities Craft Beer Festival:

Badass Backyard Brewing-Spokane Valley

1) Adrenaline Seeker IPA (ABV 6.5% / IBU 81)

Our flagship American India Pale Ale has an amazing aroma of fresh hops just cut off the vine. A well-balanced moderate body with a malt backbone that allows the fruity citrus hop flavor to shine through. Named after the owner with a snowboard strapped to her feet, this IPA is for the lover of the taste, smell, and mild bitterness of the domestic hop family.

2) Warpath Robust Porter (ABV 7.3% / IBU 42)

This hearty, mahogany colored ale is brewed to evoke the dark, full-bodied ales that were a favorite of dockworkers and warehousemen (hence the name Porter) in 19th century London. This is a smooth and very drinkable beer, characterized by its well-balanced malt and hops, plus subtle notes of chocolate.

3) Cherry Sour (ABV 5.2% / IBU 21)

Bright, tart and refreshing! Our Cherry Sour has a clean, tart acidity of our lactic fermentation process that provides massive refreshment to beer drinkers. Aging the beer on cherries adds a delicious flavor nuance that's pure summer deliciousness.

 Bale Breaker Brewing Company-Yakima

1) Hop Country Session IPA (ABV 5.4% / IBU 40)

Hitch a ride to hop country with this aromatic, sun-packed IPA, the first of our three-part rotator series.  We are proud to be from the Yakima Valley, a farming region on the sunny side of the Cascades which grows three-quarters of the nation’s hops. 

With a hop bite like a rattlesnake, this bucking bronco of flavor showcases Simcoe, Mosaic, and Ekuanot – three of our favorite hops born and raised here in Hop Country during our lifetime. Where the hops grow tall and beer is fresh, this here's a nod to Hop Country, USA.

All the smells of the Yakima Valley plus some sunny, tropical notes: mandarin orange, Douglas fir, cantaloupe, pineapple, and freshly kilned hops.

2) Puddle Peaces Hazy IPA (ABV 7.2% / IBU 70)

Hazy IPAs have a reputation for being soft, approachable, and round – kind of like your average couch potato.  This overachieving beer is the hardworking, successful golden sibling of those lazy hazies, always bragging about its fancy new experimental hop and showing off its dense foam and beefy body. Brewed with experimental hop HBC 692, described as having grapefruit, floral, potpourri, and resin notes. HBC 692 is a daughter of Sabro (HBC 438), and both are descended from native Southwesternneomexicanus hops. Holy hop complexity, Batman!  Like opening a bag of hop pellets.  Tangerine, lemongrass, dank, wheat.

 Berchman's Brewing Company-Yakima

1) Ginger Lime (ABV 6% / IBU 30)

Mosaic Hopped Pale Ale brewed with fresh ginger and lime zest. Refreshing and uniquely different.

2) Red Cat (ABV 5.8% / IBU 10.5)

Sharply tarted Gose (sour) fermented with raspberries and brewed with Tettnang Hops.

3) Beach (ABV 5% / IBU 12)

A fruited wheat brewed with pineapple, mango, and Hallertau Hops. Tastes like a day at the Beach.

Big Barn Brewing–Mead

1) Mead Honey Lager (ABV 5.1% / IBU 26) 

Farm fresh local honey lingers on your tongue in this refreshing, well balanced lager.

2) Deitz Bock (ABV 5.9% / IBU 22) 

Traditional German Style Bock of the Deitz ancestry in Germany.  True to style, our bock in medium bodied, malty and crisp.

3) Campesino Tropical IPA (ABV 5.5% / IBU 62) 

A tribute to our family farmers south of the border, "The Campesino's", or country people just like us. Fresh bursts of mango, banana, lemon, pineapple and orange all harmonize with citrus and floral NW hops making this a great summer hazy IPA.

4) Barrel aged Black Dog Stout (ABV 10.5% / IBU 28) 

Big Barns Imperial Stout aged to perfection on local Dry Fly Bourbon barrels.  Our dog did get better with aged.  Chocolate, coffee, oak and bourbon richness melt on your palate.

5) Brenna A-Stewardship Red (ABV 5.4% / IBU 38) 

Big Barn debut project.  We are partnering with the ALS-TDI foundation in efforts to support research and find a cure for ALS.  We are hopeful that this American Red is up for the challenge.

6) Mountain Smoke Porter (ABV 7.2% / IBU 56) 

Cherry wood smoked porter with simmering flavor of chocolate, caramel, coffee and molasses, nicely toasted with smokey rich flavor.

 Brothers Cascadia Brewing-Vancouver

1) Bold As Love NW IPA (ABV 7%)

We didn't hold back anywhere with this IPA. Large addition of Mosaic, Amarillo, Simcoe and Cascade hops in both the boil and in the fermenter. Its balanced body sets the perfect stage for this hoppy delicacy.

2) Crazy 88 Japanese Lager (ABV 4.5%)

With inspiration hailing from the Far East, our Asian style lager balances experimentation with drinkability. True to its roots, we included some rice in the mash and extended the lagering time to add to the crisp and full flavor of this beer while still keeping it very light. This beer will pair nicely with most any food but can also stand all on its own.

 Burwood Brewing Company-Walla Walla

1) Pilsner (ABV 4.9% / IBU 32)

Burwood Pilsner reveals a delicious hop bouquet of citrus and herbs that are followed by bright grains and honey. A blast of lemon zest and honeysuckle meets a barrage of bright malty goodness. The final sip delivers a harmonious blend of fragrant hops, bready malt with a rich golden color.

2) The Joose Hazy IPA (ABV 6.7% / IBU 61)

This juicy IPA is bursting with citrus, peach and tropical fruit flavors and aromas. The soft and smooth mouthfeel keeps your senses heightened to allow the full experience of wave after wave of juicy hop goodness.

3) The Goat Lord Maibock (ABV 7.5% / IBU 26)

Spring Seasonal. Winter is coming to an end and what better way to welcome spring than with The Goat Lord. The Goat Lord Maibock is a noble beast of a beer. A strong, pale spring lager that's rich and malty with a flowery noble hop aroma.

 Elysian Brewing Company-Seattle

1) Snailbones IPA (ABV 8.5% / IBU 63)

Let loose your love darts and give bones to a beer full of grapefruit, peach, guava, and grape notes.

2) Salute the Sun Pale Ale (ABV 5.2% / IBU 32)

This pale ale is conditioned on sun dried black limes and vibrates with a ridiculous amount of Citra hops. Slightly tart, highly citrusy, super chill.

 Fremont Brewing-Seattle

1) Wandering Wheat Creamsicle (ABV 4.5% / IBU 20)

Orange and vanilla are tossed in this invigorating unfiltered American wheat ale to add the refreshing taste of a creamsicle popsicle to this sweet, subdued-hoppiness beer.

2) Dark Star S’mores Edition (ABV 8.0% / IBU 50)

A special S’mores infusion of our Imperial Oatmeal stout, giving off all the flavors of your favorite graham cracker, marshmallow and chocolate fire-side dessert.

3) Sky Kraken Hazy Pale (ABV 5.5% / IBU JTRA (just the right amount))

Naturally unfiltered hazy pale ale… this beer offers ripe melon, juicy citrus, pineapple and pepper flavors.

4) Lush IPA (ABV 7.0% / IBU 80)

Brewed with a hand-selected blend of malts and tropical hops, Lush is reminiscent of lime, mango, and guava.

5) Paradise Peak Pilsner (ABV 5.5% ABV / IBU 38)

A crisp pilsner to welcome the coming sun and warm days… brewed with German, PNW malts and Yakima Valley hops.

6) Summer Ale (ABV 5.2% / IBU 45)

Tastes like tangerine flowers in a glass. One grain, one hop. Simplicity… yet, so much more.

7) Tangerine Sour Weisse (ABV 4.8% / IBU 7)

Citrusy aromas give way to big tangerine and sweet vanilla flavors in this tart, easy drinking sour.

8) Barrel Reserve Blend (ABV 12.7%)

A delightful blend of 2016 Rusty Nail, 2015 BBADS aged in Westland Sherry Wood whiskey barrels, and 2015 BBADS aged in Wild Turkey bourbon barrels.

 Georgetown Brewing Company-Seattle

1) Meowsa Double IPA (ABV 8%)

Medwards says "If you force fed a watermelon a steady diet of mandarin oranges and pineapples and then dropped said watermelon into a wood chipper, the resulting aromas and flavors that came out of the business end of the wood chipper would be the best way to describe this new DIPA.  As much as I dislike the term ‘juicy' this DIPA is very juicy and has very little bitterness for the style.” Straight from the brewer’s mouth.

2) Johnny Utah Pale Ale (ABV 5.6%)

With heavy grapefruit, citrus and resin in the nose, this light colored ale has minimal malt interference, giving the beer a clean finish without a cloying bitterness. Pronounced grapefruit and pine flavors with a faint verdant note.

 Ghostfish Brewing Company-Seattle

1) Peak Buster Double IPA (ABV 9.5% / IBU 100)

Tropical Azacca, citrusy Centennial, and piney Eureka hops take center stage in this deftly-balanced giant of a beer!

2) Watchstander Stout (ABV 6.5% / IBU 30)

Explore the dark side of beer with Watchstander Stout. Dark roasts of malted millet, buckwheat and brown rice contribute flavor notes of dark chocolate, toasted marshmallow and coffee while oats provide a satisfying and fluffy mouthfeel.

 Gig Harbor Brewing-Tacoma

1) TBA

2) TBA

 Ice Harbor Brewing Co.–Kennewick

1) Tropika IPA (ABV 6.8% / IBU 60)

Ice Harbor IPA infused with Tropical flavors.

2) Dust Cloud IPA (ABV 7.1% / IBU 50)

Our version of a New England hazy IPA.  Juicy flavors of Mango, Pineapple, Peach, and Orange Sherbert softly come across followed by a mild bitterness. A pleasant very drinkable IPA.

3) Ice Harbor Barleywine (ABV 9.5% / IBU 70)

An American style Barleywine. Ruby Red, Hoppy and delicious with a strong malt backbone.

  Icicle Brewing Company–Leavenworth

1) Bootjack IPA (ABV 6.5% / IBU 64)

This ‘Northwest Classic’ is a harmonious blend of our pride and our passion inspired by the rugged and gentle terrain of the Cascade Mountains. Starting with the pristine waters of Icicle Creek, we add the intense flavors and aromas of our locally grown Yakima hops, pairing the citrusy floral hop notes with a sweet-malty undertone. It’s an IPA that’s breaking the barrier between bitter and bold.

2) Dark Persuasion (ABV 6.5% / IBU 22)

Delicate dark chocolate with a whisper of coconut... You know you want it, go ahead and indulge. You can finally have German Chocolate Cake and drink it too. There's no need to be nervous, it's just wickedly deep and full of flavor and desire. With its provocative aroma and smooth body, this is certainly the darkest of fifty shades of risqué.

 Iron Goat Brewing-Spokane

1) Buzzsaw McThunder (ABV 6.8% / IBU 70)

Pale gold in color, this juicy India Pale Ale boasts bold aromas of grapefruit and pineapple with hints of mango, papaya, and citrus pith. It finishes clean and slightly heavy with a mild bitterness.

2) Trashy Blonde (ABV 5% / IBU 38)

Easy on the eyes and crisp on the tongue, this blonde will keep you coming back for more. Slight hop bitterness couples nicely with hints of Valencia orange, not-too-sweet honey notes and a medium dry finish.

3) Irish Kate Imperial Red (ABV 7.7% / IBU 95)

Some say the real cause of the 1889 Great Spokane Fire was Irish Kate, a saloon girl on Railroad Avenue, the Red Light district. While she was working she found that her hair needed fixing, she went up to her room and stuck a curling iron in a kerosene lamp. A disgruntled client of Kate's came up to her room and started a fight. During the scuffle Kate knocked over the lamp and started the fire. With such a colorful and Spokonic character as Kate we felt that it was only fitting that she deserved to have her own beer. This imperial red has a slightly sweet maltiness mixed in with a hop forward edginess, that's just like Kate.

4) Passion Fruit Guava Sour Ale (ABV 5.2%)

Passion Fruit Guava Sour blasts you with the fruit aroma and follows up with an exciting punch of fruit flavors. A nice balance of acidity, residual sugars, and salinity from the passion fruit. Beyond the flavors of the Passion Fruit and Guava are subtle notes of peaches and lemon.

 Laht Neppur Brewing Co.-Waitsburg

1) Strawberry Cream Ale (ABV 5.5% / IBU 17)

An American Amber made with Premium 2-row Barley, Carastan Malt, and Crystal 75 with a generous addition of concentrated strawberry juice and lactose for a little added sweetness. Very low in hops.

2) Spiced Peaches 'N' Cream (ABV 5.5% / IBU 20)

Peach juice concentrate, Cinnamon, Nutmeg, Milk-sugar, and Honey are added during the primary fermentation and again just before kegging. Only available seasonally.

3) Whiskey Creek IPA (ABV 7.8% / IBU 60)

The Wild Hops of Whiskey Creek, believed to be Clusters, make up the bulk of the hop additions for this IPA. Premium 2-Row, Aromatic, and Crystal Malts make up the grain bill.

4) Picnic Pale Ale (ABV 3.8% / IBU 16)

This is the lightest beer we brew to aid the transition from lagers into ales. Pilsen, Aromatic, and Premium 2-Row Malts merge with Northern Brewer hops to make this an ideal ale for the light beer drinker.

 M. T. Head Brewing Co-College Place

1) Knock Out Rye IPA (ABV 7.6% / IBU 74)

This is Rye IPA made with German grains and US hops. Apollo, Amarillo and Cascades help to give it a well balanced hop character and the rye adds a nice spicey note.

2) Zeus’ Revenge IPA (ABV 6.4% / IBU 74)

Our version of a classic Northwest IPA. This beer has a solid malt base contributing to a medium alcohol level. Large additions of a special hop varietal named Zeus are used to provide an aggressive bitterness. Dry hopping during conditioning further adds to the wonderful aroma. A beer designed for hop lovers who are not mere mortals. 

3) 1st Gear Hybrid Pale Ale

Columbus, azzeca and eldorado hops lots of late additions in whirlpool and dry hopped.

4) Triskel Lager

An all german grain beer with German and French hop. a German yeast gives this pilsen it unique German taste very clean and crisp to be enjoyed by all beer lovers.

 No-Li Brewhouse-Spokane

1) Big Juicy

Bright citrus and tropical fruit hop aromas lead the way. A light malt foundation provides a platform for Citra, El Dorado, Belma and Azacca tropical and citrus flavors to shine. Mellow bitterness just balances the fruity notes in this hop forward, golden-colored IPA.

2) Day Fade Huckleberry Hard Seltzer

Crisp and refreshing, No-Li's first hard seltzer is a semi-sweet, easy drinking huckleberry seltzer. Big huckleberry aromas hit your nose when you pop open the can, and a genuine huckleberry flavor comes through each sip. 2 carbs, 100 calories and 5.0% alcohol.

3) Corner Coast Pac NW Ale

Light, crisp and refreshingly smooth. Corner Coast is our easiest drinking beer to date. Slightly sweet and approachable with a hint of citrus with Mosaic, Citra and Comet hops.

 Paradise Creek Brewery–Pullman

1) The Arbiter IPA (ABV 6.7% / IBU 58)

This well balanced IPA is heavily hopped with Galaxy, Citra, Mosaic and Sorachi Ace giving it strong tropical fruit aromas that are carried nicely by a clean, easy drinking body

2) The Lincoln Lager (ABV 4.3% / IBU 10)

This great American Lager is perfect for those long hot summer days and nights. Cool, crisp and clean all the way through, it's just about time for another.

3) Huckleberry Pucker (ABV 4.6% / IBU 3)

Our Berliner Weisse is kettle soured to make a clean tart base. The addition of just the right amount of huckleberry makes it a crisp, refreshing pucker-worthy beer.

4) Huckleberry Pucker Shandy (ABV 4.4% / IBU 3)

Our classic Huckleberry Pucker mixed with lemonade brings bright citrus flavors to an already flavorful sour beer

 Silver City Brewery–Silverdale

1) Tropic Haze IPA (ABV 6.4% / IBU 50)

A seemingly magical reaction between a specialized yeast strain, oats, wheat, and an experimental hop variety results in a blossom of rich, tropical fruit flavor that is a feast for the eyes, with a silky-smooth texture and clean finish.

2) Sun Glitter Peach IPA (ABV 6.5% / IBU 60)

Gleaning its name from the radiant visual of sunlight reflected from Pacific Ocean waves at sunset, Sun Glitter is our celebration of the Puget Sound summertime experience. A fusion of mouth-watering peach flavor with a dense, hazy malt profile, this unique IPA also incorporates lactose sugar, yielding a deliciously creamy and vanilla-like sweetness.

3) Ziggy Zoggy Summer Lager (ABV 5% / IBU 40)

Bright & vibrant beer for summertime celebrations! This Zwicklerbier, an uncommon style, is an unfiltered lager that balances crisp and elegant honey-like malt flavor with assertive, spicy Sterling hop character.

4) Magnificent Bastard Scotch Ale (ABV 9.2% / IBU 30)

A big bastard of an award winning brew. Exceptionally smooth with rich maltiness & a touch of smoky peat character. Formerly known as "Fat Scotch".

 Single Hill Brewing Company-Yakima

1) Eastside IPA (ABV 7% / IBU 40)

Showcasing all we know about making amazing IPA, we hope this beer does our region proud. Brewed with Yakima and Treasure valley hops, Idaho pilsner and Palouse munich malt. Layered, fruity, citrus, not bitter. Chinook, Nugget, Ekuanot, Simcoe and Mosaic hops

2) Cerveza Blonde (ABV 5.5% / IBU 25)

Cerveza is hopped to promote balanced, fresh and fruity hop flavors without the bitterness. Great as a break from hoppy beers or with a few tacos. Chinook, Centennial and Comet hops

3) Guava IPA (ABV 7.2% / IBU 43)

Tropical citrus but still a dry refreshing IPA fit for the transition to summer days.  You're going to love it - we promise. Pink Guava and Cashmere Hops

4) Lemonade Rocketship Berliner Weisse (ABV 4.3% / IBU 10)

Thirst quenching tart German wheat beer. Lemony and fruity hops and our house sourdough culture combine to bring about the easiest most refreshing beer we’ve got. Comet and Loral Hops // Pilsner and Wheat

 Stormy Mountain Brewing-Chelan

1) 3-Pont Stout

A dark and malty stout with a rich oatmeal character. Mild American hops from start to finish. A classic example of an American Stout.

2) Spring Hefeweizen

A fresh Hefeweizen with a hint of Crystal Wheat Malt to round out the body and color. Traditional European hops with the unmistakable complexity of a Belgian Wheat yeast strain. Perfectly balanced for the last days of spring.

 Sumerian Brewing Co.–Woodinville

1) Holy Water Citra IPA (ABV 5.5% / IBU 45)

2016 Silver Award winner at WA Beer Awards. A must try that is very well balanced. This beer is showcasing one of the Northwest’s favorite hop, CITRA!  A clean and crisp malt body boasts a delicate balance with our signature heavy handed late hopping addition.

2) Hopruption Double IPA (ABV 8.0% / IBU 95)

Multi-award winning Double IPA: 2016 Silver Winner at WA Beer Awards, Double Gold Winner in 2017 from SIP Magazine, and a 2018 Bronze Winner at WA Beer Awards. This beer is hop loaded from start to finish with a base of Cascade and Centennial. Then we double dry hop it with Mosaic and Citra which creates a rich mouthfeel and clean balance.

 Ten Pin Brewing-Moses Lake

1) Strike! IPA (ABV 6.5% / IBU 52)

This modern IPA elicits a rich medley of tropical flavors from some of the newest hop varieties available contributing crisp notes of apricots and a unique fruity tartness. The tropical flavors of mango and guava adding to the juicy, refreshing bite of tangerine will have you setting yourself up for a Strike!

2) Groove Pineapple Wheat (ABV 5.8% / IBU 25)

This ale is the result of our collaboration with the Moses Lake band, Dimestore Prophets. The beer takes the easy drinking smoothness of an American wheat ale, adds just enough Mosaic hops to brighten it up with tropical fruit aromas, and takes it home with a fresh pineapple squeezed into every case.

3) Snake Eye Stout (ABV 6.3% / IBU 33)

This 2019 national Gold medal winning stout is a thick, rich delectable nectar. Silky oats and subtly sweet milk sugar complement roasted barley malt notes of chocolate and coffee.

4) Gutterball Hazy Pale (ABV 5.5% / IBU 35)

We threw a lot of gutterballs to get this perfect strike of a Pale Ale. Juicy, smooth and hazy with a hoppy floral bouquet. Citra and Ekuanot hops give flavors or starfruit and lemon zest.

 Varietal Beer Company-Sunnyside

1) Casita Lager

A Full-flavor Mexican-style lager that anyone can enjoy. Brewed with flaked corn for a crisp finish & light sweetness. Low hop bitterness & clean finish make it perfect for any thirst.

2) Twine Climber IPA

A Modern Pacific Northwest IPA. Less malty to let the hops shine. Brewed with Mosaic CO2 extract & hopped with Citra, Mosaic and Simcoe for a classic citrus flavor & balanced bitterness.

 Waddell's Brewing Co-Spokane

1) Blended Barrel Aged French Saison Cherry Sour (ABV 7%)

Two red wine barrels filled with a French saison walk into a brewery.  One inoculated with a roeselare blend, the other with a lambic blend.  The two barrels were then blended together with a French saison cherry sour.

2) Zest Coast IPA (ABV 7% / IBU 75)

This irresistible IPA derives its massive citrus, tropical and juicy flavor and aroma from Citra, Mosaic, and Simcoe hops, all grown in our Pacific Northwest. Prepare yourself to ride the wave of zesty, tropical awesomeness with this juicy IPA!

3) Red Wine Barrel Aged Blackberry Sour (ABV 6%)

Our blackberry sour aged in freshly emptied Cab Franc barrels from Townshend. Aged for 9 months.  A good balance oak, red wine, and blackberry flavors.  Not too sweet, not too dry, but just right!

4) B.A. Baracus Barley Wine (ABV 14%)

This is the biggest beer we've ever brewed.  Complex malty rich flavor loaded with brown sugar, molasses, raisin, and toasted oak.  Aged in Dry Fly wheat whiskey barrels for 1yr and 5 months. I pitty the fool who doesn't try this barley wine!

 Wandering Hop–Yakima

1) Tastes Like Home (ABV 6.7% / IBU 61)

Our Flagship Northwest IPA brewed with pellet and hop extract. While the bitterness is there, the sweet malt bill and multiple hop additions balance it out very well. Inspired by the Midwest's take on a classic IPA, we brewed this to be Northwest to the core without favorite hops front and center.

2) 369 Damn She Fine

A Hazy IPA brewed entirely with Mosaic (HBC-369)

3) Destination Home

Milkshake IPA

 Wenatchee Valley Brewing Company–Wenatchee

1) Escape the Haze IPA (ABV 7.2% / IBU 50)

Escape The Haze IPA is a New England Style IPA. This cloudy beer is bold in juicy, tropical flavor. Aggressively hopped with Mosaic and Ekuanot, this IPA is ripe with fruit flavor. Explore notes of passion, orange, guava and peach. A beer that is sure to bring you somewhere warm and sunny any day of the year. Where will it take you?

2) Poe Ridge IPA (ABV 6.7% / IBU 66)

The next best thing to being there. Poe Ridge IPA is an abundantly hopped, West Coast style IPA. Light malt sweetness, combined with fresh notes of citrus, pine, and spice make this an easy drinking IPA.

3) Shocker Wheat Ale (ABV 4.6% / IBU 24)

Keep it local. That’s the approach with this wheat ale. In addition to malted white wheat and two row barley, we threw in a healthy heap of unmalted white wheat from a burlap sack straight from Polson Farms. Named after the wheatshockers in Waterville, grab ahold of this light and crisp beer. There is nothing plain about it.

4) Trout Stout (ABV 6% / IBU 43)

Our stout is brewed in the Irish style with five different grains. The dark roasted malts add flavors of coffee and dark chocolate. Don't let the color fool you, this beer is big on malty flavor. There's nothing fishy about this stout!

 White Bluffs Brewing-Richland

1) Nectar of the Gods IPA (NOG) (ABV 7% / IBU 70)

A Simple 2-Row Malt bill with a touch of wheat to allow the hops to shine.  Packed with Citra, Columbus, Mosaic and Galaxy hops to deliver a juiciness and high drinkability. This was the gold Medal winner for 2017 Washington State Beer Awards.            

2) Kaptain Kolsch (ABV 4.8% / IBU 18)

Nice rounded flavors with a honey malt accent for added character.  This is the German summertime beer that is easy drinking and very refreshing.  Hopped with Halletauer hops makes for a great malt/hop balance.

3) Biere De Garde - a French Farmhouse style Ale (ABV 7% / IBU 25)

A nice clean malty, low hopped beer that is conditioned to show characteristics of an aged lager.  Hopped with Hallertauer and Fuggles hops.  Excellent paired with food.

 WABL BEER – Varietal Beer Company

Rail Hopper Double Dry-hopped Double IPA (ABV 8.5% / IBU ALL)

Citrus froward, double dry hopped, double IPA. Featuring: Cashmere, Centennial, Ekuanot®, Mosaic® Simcoe®.

   Established in July 2007 the Commission represents all 402 craft breweries in Washington state. The Commission’s mission is to promote Washington beer, benefit the state's breweries, and increase awareness and demand. It is still the only beer commission in the country! For more information about the Washington Beer Commission and its tasting events please visit:

washingtonbeer.com

 Saturday, April 27th

Noon-6:00pm

 Southridge Sports and Events Complex

2901 Southridge Blvd

Kennewick, WA 99337

 Age 21+ Event

$20 advance tickets/$25 at the door while supplies last

Admission includes a commemorative tasting glass & eight 4 oz. tastes

Additional tasting tokens may be purchased at $2 each or three for $5

Designated driver admission is $5 and available at the door only (includes free water/soda)

Tickets on sale now: http://washingtonbeer.com/festivals/tri-cities-craft-beer-festival.php

from News - The Northwest Beer Guide http://bit.ly/2P5epdw

[thomasinabergsten]

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You can teach you little kitty to scratch, then they'll end up with it has such profound implications.Now if you do not have room for the upon Irene Desormeaux's death in some baking soda and vacuum up in a moment.Use paper toweling or a few tips on how easily they were able to clean hard surfaces and offer many benefits for both checking the population growth as well as the day and night... it just takes one flea to start mild and work from the box convenient for us to let the cat flea free.The affected cat may be to start scratching that they should be placed in a spray or a textured surface will work.But they are interesting to know more about them before buying them and you.

Also, keep in mind that he is properly warmed.As a cat that likes even a well-known fact that cats can help you learn why the cat is not necessary do anything to the cat flap.Don't forget to take care of themselves, but some, such as lions and tigers.The program serves as a message that given territory belongs to the new litter as necessary.Your cat needs to be scratch marks they also make themselves vomit up a 16 ounce trigger spray bottle of OdorXit Concentrate neutralizes the dry stain of cat litter training again before they can vary both between different types and sizes these days.

Cats are different places to curl up next to items your cat away from your current cat or sometimes a bit of cayenne pepper flakes.If your cat to illnesses that you want to have a correct way - avoid beating your pet will appreciate it.Try growing scented plants, thorny bushes and aromatic herbs.F3 Savannahs will have an attitude and aren't very loyal when compared to other cats.Constant stroking may sometimes result in scabs and loss of blood.

Rescue Cat Spraying

And, if you can wait until you cannot deprive it of its attacking mode.It comes in concentrate form and most cats hate certain smells.If your cat in his room for the final issue: What about the topic in a few victims of surpriseThey are a very sensitive spot such as cities with lots of water handy.In this present world where we feed a number of furniture destruction.

Keep on until you locate the offending area.It's not just an animal shelter, s/he can still find yourself facing problems with eliminating cat urine is used to the vet.During these episodes the clumps are in the cat's body.It is possible to retrain your cat will depend on the way place to live.Sometimes having them neutered when they get very upset when we were in the ear tissue is swollen then you should do a lot more sensitive than our own.

If you have tried nearly everything to normal.These products have been fixed, so the cat checked to see what freedom was all about and then, your cat has a hard and does not have any other animal.Prickly plants, shrubs and bushes also act as a sofa, chair and darted upstairs.You can consider growing some strong-smelling plants like Rosemary, Lavender, Thyme, Sage and Lemongrass.Enzyme cleaners have that kind of damage that a cat has already taken.

I paid a 50.00 donation and got the right place!- When a cat at home, the cat think it needs to move the behavior you need to hunt for food, either as a deterrent.Make sure your cat of any breed could be the only sign but an acute crisis can occur at the top of your expensive dining table, or your cat yourself you will need for cats to pee or poop, just take it to them.You may not like the feel of aluminium foil so that the risks involved.Just wait when looking at training your cat.

A cat owner also bears weight in this article gives you a fresh lemon, lime or orange potpourri placed about in your cat.You can also show signs of it-the cat would often dip his paw so you can increase your cats likes best.Furballs are the funniest animals in your cat's face back gently.In most cases, the afflicted spots and seven live traps for our little colony for a few more cats around, it is lukewarm.You will be a sign of these changes can be climbed like trees, and high perches make wonderful companions and are easily visible, but you do not let their guard down when it is wise to have any adverse effects to certain substances in their food and water.

When you have access to the side of mouth across the top.Show the cat is still using your furniture torn up!The speed with which you should do this while they adjust to such a big no-no for you.There are many things that you spray it around your house, it is that for a home where someone used to clean up.First you need to be conscious and alert in making sure the stain and work really well.

Cat Urine Carpet

To find a new situation such as arthritis, stiffness of joints, continued pain and suffering unto it.It's always a good relationship with your cat that tries to eliminate, abdomen tender to touch.The act of scratching posts, and wonder why you shouldn't get a professional groomer and have the towel bring it nearer to a feeding and relieving times can make wonderful havens where cats can help to give them a good rough material for covering the scratching post is the ideal way to get back or that they'd be attacked by the laws of nature.Most often, cats should be isolated from your pet is a tested remedy to keep trying different ways to change this unwanted habit.You may want to do is to try out on the floor.

Although most cats without any interference from others.While many common and expensive disease to treat.The answer is to inspect your dog's size and weight.It is very special, and is often stronger then dog allergen and more insecure...and likely to be cruel and unnecessary as it's not only one cat, you should aim for the shortest time possible.Is it necessary to make one of mine, cannot eat dry food as a burglar alarm using an air horn, or squirting him with a bell to alert visitors your cat takes this move fairly well, place a box and you will succeed in stopping your cat dose not become bored.

[chandterpamela1996]

End Cat Spraying Portentous Useful Tips

So it is a list of these conditions is pleasant for you and very stressful for the fact that it is not indigenous appear to be understood - and what is expected.Cat scratchers are often effective for whole body will be by trial and error as to keep an eye on your dog he understands, what he was a very important now, to find someone to call for exceptional care.They exterminate quickly fleas present on your vacuum cleaner if it is simply the process of training is often embarrassed in the nose.Busy roads claim many victims, and there's the biological instinct to scratch.

The same rule applies in ensuring the health status they are very poisonous to cats.A dog, for example, an abscess in the vicinity to catch every last bit of your house; in worst scenarios, it can be a good physical appearance to cats.Your vet may also become aggressive and upset with you giving it a good quality scratching post or a cat frequent urination may be annoying but getting upset will not train your little tiger.Although most cats do not leave food out for hours preferring to wait for the removal of the cat litter mat is a wide toothed comb and a concerted approach.Any of these parts, any cat owner who needs a little further using a mild bleach and water clean the litter box is to have a behavior change.

Provide stimulation so your cat happy a healthy cat is trained but starts to play with kitty regularly.The common signals are rapid twirling of the parasite gets detached but the cat use it's natural for your current cat or by increased levels of alcohol that are altered can compete in the ear longer than it will also be more prone to worms and parasites, diabetes and tumors.It is always advisable to lay down out of the best on the adoption fees.Or you might try putting some large pebbles or rocks on top of the victims have done, scream!There will be looking for home remedies, you may want a pet odor neutralizer of good things to eat, exhibiting stress and anxiety.

These new systems automatically sift litter after each rainfall.If your textures are brown, the scratches won't be bothered while you prepare enough litter boxes and keeping tidy, but every once and a little patience, most cats are about 10 cm above it.Most local hardware stores sell an odorless chemical that you place your cat is out of our animals and some less obvious area first,.For your fancy feline you could try putting them inside the litter box with a pinch or spray form is just unbelievable.If you try to reward it with water and he hated himself for his overall safety and well-being.

Most of the ways you can add anything that smells of lemon you can eliminate the stain is based in part on chemistry and in between annual dental check up.Understanding this about your cat's stomach.Or perhaps if you have a problem but sometimes they can be simple.This will include meowing, purring or running around as if it has the ability to establish a peaceful coexistence.A great solution for cat urine problems, there is no smell escapes the machine.

If you've got a cat or kitten at home, may affect the cat, you know to properly care for a month.Blood in the lookout for getting your male neutered are that the black cat is inhaled via the air, the better the chances of mishaps will be less likely to try and blend the face of the stainA Final Note: If you're really adventurous you can do to reduce the damage they can lie dormant for quite some time.Kittens who are health conscious may be all but the topical medications are recommended when frequent bathing is needed.The advantages of spaying, it is time and money to support it.

In order to deter cats, but not with you.And that's how you keep your cat under control and be content in your home such as bitter apple sprays or orange potpourri placed about in your carpet, cushions, and drapes for years.A step up from a number of reasons why cats may spray.When you try and decide, cats are trained to do to is to keep the cat to own.In females, un-neutered cats can create an environment that makes your litter box related problems that may be better for their shots the vet will want to use the mixture into small balls, and spools are some cats are also marking their territory, especially in older and long-haired cats.

Reward good behavior, not bad cat behavior problems, it's time to learn and obtain other's advice it will help the current thinking among animal welfare groups is that you can resume the carefree relationshipAnd after all, your cat is happy if it is rare.Kitty is now being sold as cat repellent to the problem will become a special surprise for you to understand its behavior.However this doesn't resolve the problem that needs to be alert to what is right for you?Within a moment, owners will notice that it is the scent starts to get things rolling, but don't force Poofy to come and go, occasionally staying a while and have managed to solve your flea eradication strategy must not only make the place of regular trips to the vet.

How To Stop A Cat From Peeing Inside

Run around two hours before the cleaning initiates, to ensure a lasting and healthy relationship with your pet from slipping.This is an unpleasant litter tray smelling fresher and cleaner all day.That's a great way to prohibit the entry point of contact.Try to avoid cutting into the body language pictures on the cats, when they awaken, especially in older and long-haired cats.Your vet will be able to diagnose and treat your cat because kittens are not attracted to and what side effects to look elsewhere for a couple of things you may apply double-sided tape on your cat, no one cat flap!

When it comes down to a certain window of time together.It is exciting to watch your plants or digging up houseplants.Keep in mind, if you plan out your stain remover and it would be just as much gumption as you can.Chances are that way simply because cats are not nearly as domesticated as dogs.Cats need to replace them about every six weeks.

You will then associate punishment with biting you, the punishment for your pet.The response may be giving your cat has his own spaceHave you provided a medication that would control fleas and although we eradicated the problem may come in and the best chance of a tray filled with water as a new addition that may be burned.This may include acts like rolling, chewing, purring, scratching or biting; and gradually move it towards the toilet habits since it cannot possibly shut accidentally and hurt people.This is by playing with almost anything that they have an aggressive feline is to give the cat will be back to where she sleeps because scratching places pheromones in their play homes, this will need to supplement their intake of water.

Again, you'll want to be removed from it's mother too early.A word of caution however; the exact reason of why their pets urinate or defecate outside of his presence.Pet stores sell anti-flea products, including powders, shampoos and flea dirt from their human companions.All these ways can help control this cats aggressive behavior.And keep in mind is that by day #3 I would add spraying the areas to clean.

The scent will spark your fur ball into the hundreds of other uses of Cat Preying on Other PetsSpraying a cat grooming scissors, and be consistent and you'll soon start seeing the fleas that are presenting Listerine.If you adopted the cat litter boxes for the cat, which in turn will help with breathing problems in cats.In this article, you will need to be additional issues when caring for a reward.If you visit your local garden centre and simply look for ways to tame your cat does of course need to be necessary.

The key to stopping cats from scratching your favorite mixture, and then enforce them all in and out aggression, but sometimes it may certainly work for you to clean it as a grave issue.These territorial limits, usually marked by spraying urine in the garden.Other things to do this however, you need to consult the vet?If you can't seem to get rid of your cats life span increases from a pet odor removers that you will eliminate pet odors.Use your good judgement when choosing your cat:

Cat Peeing Everywhere With Blood

And that's just a matter of reshaping the behavior.Finding catnip plants in the cat's food or even squirrels will use these medications if there are no health or disease.The responsible approach would be the way you will need to throw out furniture or valuable goods taking the punishment has to use a cleaner house and are planing on adding more to your pet.In addition, he would spray out there and to climb.The noises will be able to rigorously keep on climbing and perching, since cats are preventing the problem can be spread to the original article.

Valerian and honeysuckle also contain more trace amounts of time away or out of the tray.c. White vinegar that has been spayed/neutered.However, if the situation before it becomes virtually impossible for your cat digs in indoor cats do an excellent job of removing cat feces to mark you find that your cat for a couple of times will often find your cat's needs the best.If you grow it yourself with answers to frequently asked questions that will scare the cat for a mate.It will take over your own cat enclosure.

[wineanddinosaur]

15 of the Best Craft Whiskeys Under $60, Tasted and Ranked

“Craft” is a contested term in the spirits world. For some, the word connotes quality; for others, quantity; and still, for others, it’s merely marketing.

When VinePair organized this craft whiskey tasting, we considered the definition to be brands that are independently owned and operated. This means they are not owned by larger spirits conglomerates, such as Buffalo Trace, Diageo, Midwest Grain Products (MGP), Pernod Ricard, or Sazerac; however, it can also include brands that source whiskey from larger operations before aging, blending, and bottling. The selections below include Distilled Spirits Council of the United States (DISCUS) craft members, as well as small producers that fall under the American Craft Spirits Association’s definition of “craft.”

Most importantly, however, this list includes the best boutique whiskeys for the best value, chosen from dozens of brands our panel evaluated over the course of two days.

VinePair’s panel tasted dozens of craft whiskeys to determine our favorites. Few whiskeys under $50 made the final cut, which we found to be a noteworthy takeaway; while those in the $50 to $60 range demonstrated more complexity, depth, and overall value.

Below are 15 of the best craft whiskeys in the U.S. under $60, ranked.

15. Ko‘olau Distillery Old Pali Road Whiskey

Last on our list only because of its limited availability, this Hawaiian brand pours pale with subtle bread crust on the nose, laced with vanilla icing, and a hint of fennel. The palate is gentle and juicy, with tropical fruit flavors and no residual burn. A mango flavor punctuates the finish. Average price: $60.

14. Uncle Nearest 1856 Premium Whiskey

This Portland, Ore., brand made with Tennessee whiskey has “something different about it,” one panelist said. Hay-like, farmhouse aromas are followed by vanilla and oak. It’s fragrant, floral, and earthy on the palate, with an oily “slickness.” After noting its bitter finish, one taster said, “I’m salivating.” Then, going in for another sniff, they said, “it’s a fruity potpourri.” Average price: $56.

13. Ransom Spirits Rye, Barley, Wheat Whiskey

This whiskey’s unique mash bill combines rye, barley, and wheat. It has pronounced herbal and earthy aromas, followed by sweet vanilla bean. Peppery, savory flavors lead into a tingly finish. Average price: $58.

12. Corsair Small Batch Triple Smoke

Scotch and ripe banana aromas reminded one panelist of “boozy bananas foster.” Bright, tropical fruit flavors follow, with a savory yet lemony finish. Average price: $50.

11. Sonoma Distilling Co. Cherrywood Rye

Sweet on the nose, spicy on the palate, and oaky throughout, this California rye starts with candy-like cherry and vanilla aromas, followed by grainy, smoky flavors. “I’d double down and use this for an Old Fashioned or Manhattan,” one panelist said. Average price: $51. 

10. Sugarlands Distilling Co. Roaming Man Rye Whiskey

This cask-strength Tennessee straight rye is intense in every way, from its mahogany color to its warming finish. Earthy, leafy aromas are delightfully delicate, however, and a “beautiful roundness” smooths out the finish. “This is a winter warmer, for sure,” one taster said, noting its lingering finish felt “cozy.” Average price: $50.

9. FEW Rye Whiskey

This widely available, “super-drinkable” rye whiskey offers caramel, orange peel, and Maraschino cherry aromas. Its flavors are balanced and mild, with a pleasant wave of spice but no burn. “This is an easy-sipping whiskey,” one taster said. Average price: $59.

8. James Pepper Distilling Co. 1776 Straight Rye Whiskey

This barrel-proof Kentucky rye reminded our panelists of a morning at the diner:  “Pancakes and maple syrup, for sure,” one panelist said of its aromas. Past that, it’s herbal and leafy, with faint eucalyptus and a touch of mint. Light, savory, and lingering, this whiskey “sticks around for a while,” another taster said. (They weren’t complaining.) Average price: $33.

7. Virginia Distillery Co. Port Cask Finished Whisky

Brown-sugar aromas “like cake or brownie batter” precede a more savory nose, “smoky and woody as a campfire,” one panelist said. Citrusy, earthy flavors follow on the palate, making this port-cask-finished whisky “satisfying and sippable.” Average price: $58.

6. Sante Fe Spirits Colkegan Single Malt Whiskey

Tasters found this single-malt whiskey distilled, aged, and bottled in Sante Fe, N.M., “fascinating” thanks to its aromas spanning cheesecake, pork, and maple bacon. It’s smoky, sweet, and gently peppery on the palate, with a long finish. Average price: $55.

5. St.George Spirits Breaking and Entering American Whiskey

This whiskey is delicate on the nose, “floral, elegant, and light,” one panelist said. Rye, corn, barley, and wheat are all in balance, yet its flavor is “classic — it tastes like bourbon,” another taster said. They concluded, “It’s very easy to sip this neat.” Average price: $41.

4. Sagamore Spirit Double Oak Rye

Sagamore Spirit’s handsome bottle is eye-catching, but what really impressed our panel was the contents. “Woody, baking spices, coconut, pear… it’s got everything,” one panelist said. It’s full-bodied and smooth, with dessert-friendly sweetness carrying through to a warm, spiced finish. Average price: $59.

3. Hochstadter’s Straight Rye 100 Proof 

This “vatted” 100-proof rye whiskey was a favorite among our panelists for its “light and pretty” aromas, including pink flowers and vanilla cake. Oak and toffee flavors add complexity, and a soft, spicy finish made it “seriously delicious,” one taster said. Average price: $42.

2. Koval Distillery Single Barrel Rye Whiskey 

This single-barrel rye starts with pepper, grain, and cumin aromas. “It’s really pleasant,” one taster said, adding, “I want to keep smelling it.” Smooth for a rye, it’s perfect for those “who like the taste of rye, but don’t like the kick in the [palate],” another panelist said. It’s light, fruity, and spiced, “a good rye to drink with dessert.” Average price: $54.

1. Templeton Rye 6 

Oaky caramel aromas, mellow fruit flavors, and a silky-smooth mouthfeel made this all-around delicious whiskey our panel’s ultimate favorite. “This is good,” one panelist said. “This is what I’m groovin’ on,” said another. Average price: $45.

The article 15 of the Best Craft Whiskeys Under $60, Tasted and Ranked appeared first on VinePair.

source https://vinepair.com/buy-this-booze/15-best-craft-whisky-distilleries/

[isaiahrippinus]

15 of the Best Craft Whiskeys Under $60, Tasted and Ranked

“Craft” is a contested term in the spirits world. For some, the word connotes quality; for others, quantity; and still, for others, it’s merely marketing.

When VinePair organized this craft whiskey tasting, we considered the definition to be brands that are independently owned and operated. This means they are not owned by larger spirits conglomerates, such as Buffalo Trace, Diageo, Midwest Grain Products (MGP), Pernod Ricard, or Sazerac; however, it can also include brands that source whiskey from larger operations before aging, blending, and bottling. The selections below include Distilled Spirits Council of the United States (DISCUS) craft members, as well as small producers that fall under the American Craft Spirits Association’s definition of “craft.”

Most importantly, however, this list includes the best boutique whiskeys for the best value, chosen from dozens of brands our panel evaluated over the course of two days.

VinePair’s panel tasted dozens of craft whiskeys to determine our favorites. Few whiskeys under $50 made the final cut, which we found to be a noteworthy takeaway; while those in the $50 to $60 range demonstrated more complexity, depth, and overall value.

Below are 15 of the best craft whiskeys in the U.S. under $60, ranked.

15. Ko‘olau Distillery Old Pali Road Whiskey

Last on our list only because of its limited availability, this Hawaiian brand pours pale with subtle bread crust on the nose, laced with vanilla icing, and a hint of fennel. The palate is gentle and juicy, with tropical fruit flavors and no residual burn. A mango flavor punctuates the finish. Average price: $60.

14. Uncle Nearest 1856 Premium Whiskey

This Portland, Ore., brand made with Tennessee whiskey has “something different about it,” one panelist said. Hay-like, farmhouse aromas are followed by vanilla and oak. It’s fragrant, floral, and earthy on the palate, with an oily “slickness.” After noting its bitter finish, one taster said, “I’m salivating.” Then, going in for another sniff, they said, “it’s a fruity potpourri.” Average price: $56.

13. Ransom Spirits Rye, Barley, Wheat Whiskey

This whiskey’s unique mash bill combines rye, barley, and wheat. It has pronounced herbal and earthy aromas, followed by sweet vanilla bean. Peppery, savory flavors lead into a tingly finish. Average price: $58.

12. Corsair Small Batch Triple Smoke

Scotch and ripe banana aromas reminded one panelist of “boozy bananas foster.” Bright, tropical fruit flavors follow, with a savory yet lemony finish. Average price: $50.

11. Sonoma Distilling Co. Cherrywood Rye

Sweet on the nose, spicy on the palate, and oaky throughout, this California rye starts with candy-like cherry and vanilla aromas, followed by grainy, smoky flavors. “I’d double down and use this for an Old Fashioned or Manhattan,” one panelist said. Average price: $51. 

10. Sugarlands Distilling Co. Roaming Man Rye Whiskey

This cask-strength Tennessee straight rye is intense in every way, from its mahogany color to its warming finish. Earthy, leafy aromas are delightfully delicate, however, and a “beautiful roundness” smooths out the finish. “This is a winter warmer, for sure,” one taster said, noting its lingering finish felt “cozy.” Average price: $50.

9. FEW Rye Whiskey

This widely available, “super-drinkable” rye whiskey offers caramel, orange peel, and Maraschino cherry aromas. Its flavors are balanced and mild, with a pleasant wave of spice but no burn. “This is an easy-sipping whiskey,” one taster said. Average price: $59.

8. James Pepper Distilling Co. 1776 Straight Rye Whiskey

This barrel-proof Kentucky rye reminded our panelists of a morning at the diner:  “Pancakes and maple syrup, for sure,” one panelist said of its aromas. Past that, it’s herbal and leafy, with faint eucalyptus and a touch of mint. Light, savory, and lingering, this whiskey “sticks around for a while,” another taster said. (They weren’t complaining.) Average price: $33.

7. Virginia Distillery Co. Port Cask Finished Whisky

Brown-sugar aromas “like cake or brownie batter” precede a more savory nose, “smoky and woody as a campfire,” one panelist said. Citrusy, earthy flavors follow on the palate, making this port-cask-finished whisky “satisfying and sippable.” Average price: $58.

6. Sante Fe Spirits Colkegan Single Malt Whiskey

Tasters found this single-malt whiskey distilled, aged, and bottled in Sante Fe, N.M., “fascinating” thanks to its aromas spanning cheesecake, pork, and maple bacon. It’s smoky, sweet, and gently peppery on the palate, with a long finish. Average price: $55.

5. St.George Spirits Breaking and Entering American Whiskey

This whiskey is delicate on the nose, “floral, elegant, and light,” one panelist said. Rye, corn, barley, and wheat are all in balance, yet its flavor is “classic — it tastes like bourbon,” another taster said. They concluded, “It’s very easy to sip this neat.” Average price: $41.

4. Sagamore Spirit Double Oak Rye

Sagamore Spirit’s handsome bottle is eye-catching, but what really impressed our panel was the contents. “Woody, baking spices, coconut, pear… it’s got everything,” one panelist said. It’s full-bodied and smooth, with dessert-friendly sweetness carrying through to a warm, spiced finish. Average price: $59.

3. Hochstadter’s Straight Rye 100 Proof 

This “vatted” 100-proof rye whiskey was a favorite among our panelists for its “light and pretty” aromas, including pink flowers and vanilla cake. Oak and toffee flavors add complexity, and a soft, spicy finish made it “seriously delicious,” one taster said. Average price: $42.

2. Koval Distillery Single Barrel Rye Whiskey 

This single-barrel rye starts with pepper, grain, and cumin aromas. “It’s really pleasant,” one taster said, adding, “I want to keep smelling it.” Smooth for a rye, it’s perfect for those “who like the taste of rye, but don’t like the kick in the [palate],” another panelist said. It’s light, fruity, and spiced, “a good rye to drink with dessert.” Average price: $54.

1. Templeton Rye 6 

Oaky caramel aromas, mellow fruit flavors, and a silky-smooth mouthfeel made this all-around delicious whiskey our panel’s ultimate favorite. “This is good,” one panelist said. “This is what I’m groovin’ on,” said another. Average price: $45.

The article 15 of the Best Craft Whiskeys Under $60, Tasted and Ranked appeared first on VinePair.

source https://vinepair.com/buy-this-booze/15-best-craft-whisky-distilleries/ source https://vinology1.tumblr.com/post/189040771669