Halloween

HAPPY HALLOWEEN, Everyone! I know this series covers medicinal plants and all healing things provided by Mother Nature but this week’s article will be a little more on the creepy side.

There are millions of plants across the planet but today I bring to you 5 Creepy Plants Possessing Healing Properties. Some of these plants are beautiful and it’s the seed pod that looks scary, or maybe it’s a scary story behind the plant itself.

Ever wonder why teal pumpkins have suddenly started showing up on doorsteps all around your neighborhood? Well, you may be surprised to learn that it’s all about safety!

The Teal Pumpkin Project is a national campaign that was launched in 2014 by the organization Food Allergy Research & Education (FARE). The color teal has been used for nearly 20 years to raise awareness about food allergies and the severity of this medical condition, which made it the perfect choice for representing their Halloween campaign.

On Halloween, it's okay to play with your food: Better yet, put some on your face. Here's a simple, chemical-free recipe for face paint you could (almost) eat. After all, would you rather risk putting toxic heavy chemicals on your face? In 2009 a study conducted by Campaign for Safe Cosmetics found lead, nickel, cobalt and chromium in most children's face paint.

What to do with all those pumpkin seeds after carving is done? Roast them and eat them, of course! After cleaning off the seeds simply coat them in the seasonings of your choice and spread them out on a baking sheet to be cooked until golden brown (30-45 minutes, flipping halfway through) at 300 degrees Fahrenheit.

1. Sweet: Butter, Cinnamon & Sugar

There is nothing quite like the smell of butter, sugar and cinnamon baking away in a cozy house. Bring the fall season to life with this sweet seasoning for your pumpkin seeds.

As a vegan, it can be difficult to know what brand-name items you can buy and which to avoid, especially when it comes to candy. As Halloween approaches, consider handing out some of these “accidentally” vegan candies to the trick-or-treaters in your neighborhood!

 *Note: Companies may change their ingredients at any time, so always read the label to be sure food items are free of animal products.*