Say NO to Soy!
Soy can be a very harmful food, with the exception of organic fermented soy such as miso. 90% of conventional soy is genetically modified and highly contaminated with Roundup and other herbicides and pesticides. If you are eating organic soy, at least it is not genetically modified, but it is not without some risks. Here is more information on the health risks for humans consuming soy: http://www.mercola.com/article/soy/avoid_soy.htm
Here is an excerpt from ehow about risks of feeding conventional GMO soy (over 90% of conventional soy is genetically modified) to animals:
"Controversy surrounds genetically modified soybeans. Monsanto, the leading producer of GMO soybeans, claims its pesticide-resistant soybeans are safe, while the American Academy of Environmental Medicine calls for programs to educate the public on the possible risks of GMO crops. In their studies, they have found animals consuming GMO soybeans had problems with infertility, lower immunity, mutations in bodily organs and function and more rapid aging."
There ARE other options for soy-free grains. For our chickens, we use Green Mountain Organics Soy-Free Layer pellets. Countryside Organics (made in VA) as they make an organic, soy-free grain for goats as well as other animals, like chickens. Here is their website: http://www.countrysideorganics.com/ You can also make your own homemade grain, utilizing local resources for oats, seeds, etc. which we are going to be experimenting with soon. We are also going to try and research grain-free diets since that is the traditional diet for livestock. Here is one recipe...I have not tried it, so if you do please let me know how it is: http://homesteadapprentice.blogspot.com/2009/05/goat-feed-recipe.html
Here is an excerpt from ehow about risks of feeding conventional GMO soy (over 90% of conventional soy is genetically modified) to animals:
"Controversy surrounds genetically modified soybeans. Monsanto, the leading producer of GMO soybeans, claims its pesticide-resistant soybeans are safe, while the American Academy of Environmental Medicine calls for programs to educate the public on the possible risks of GMO crops. In their studies, they have found animals consuming GMO soybeans had problems with infertility, lower immunity, mutations in bodily organs and function and more rapid aging."
There ARE other options for soy-free grains. For our chickens, we use Green Mountain Organics Soy-Free Layer pellets. Countryside Organics (made in VA) as they make an organic, soy-free grain for goats as well as other animals, like chickens. Here is their website: http://www.countrysideorganics.com/ You can also make your own homemade grain, utilizing local resources for oats, seeds, etc. which we are going to be experimenting with soon. We are also going to try and research grain-free diets since that is the traditional diet for livestock. Here is one recipe...I have not tried it, so if you do please let me know how it is: http://homesteadapprentice.blogspot.com/2009/05/goat-feed-recipe.html
Natural Tick Control!
The tick issue and Lymes disease is not isolated to the New England states or northeast, but is a major issue around the world. And guess what? Chickens, ducks, and guineas are fantastic bug eaters and love to eat ticks! I read somewhere that only eight guineas can clear a 50 acre property of ticks! People will spend time and money applying toxic bug repellents to their skin daily during the spring and summer months, and this constant exposure is not only bad for your immune system, but it is toxic for the good bugs, flora and fauna that are exposed to it as well. Our rule is "if you can't eat it, then you should really not apply it to your skin!" Your skin is also an organ - the largest one on your body, and it absorbs everything that is applied to it. We do use a topical, natural bug spray that is based on essential oils. It is Dr. Mercola's Bug Spray, and you can order it here: http://products.mercola.com/bug-spray/. They also carry products for pets as well. Ticks love honeysuckle and wetland areas in addition to the forested and tall brush. Chickens, ducks or guineas and goats can work together to get rid of tick issues in a field - goats mowing down the tall brush, and the birds will not only eat ticks, but also sanitize pastures by picking parasites and troublesome bugs out of goat manure! It is a beautiful thing.
So what happens if we get bitten by a tick? First, it is important to always carry tick twisters. We have several sets and always have one at home, one in the car, and one in my backpack. I found ours locally at a vet, but you can also order them at Dr. Mercola's website. http://shop.mercola.com/product/tick-stick-tick-removal-tool,268,0,0.htm. After we safely remove ticks, we immediately apply yarrow tincture (or a poultice made with dried yarrow), followed by raw, local honey - nature's strongest antibiotic. We also take the homeopathic remedy Ledum 200c for a few days in a row. One interesting thing I read recently said that if a person has sufficient iodine levels in your body, then ticks are not as likely to take a bite! Only an iodine loading test can tell someone if their levels are adequate.
So what happens if we get bitten by a tick? First, it is important to always carry tick twisters. We have several sets and always have one at home, one in the car, and one in my backpack. I found ours locally at a vet, but you can also order them at Dr. Mercola's website. http://shop.mercola.com/product/tick-stick-tick-removal-tool,268,0,0.htm. After we safely remove ticks, we immediately apply yarrow tincture (or a poultice made with dried yarrow), followed by raw, local honey - nature's strongest antibiotic. We also take the homeopathic remedy Ledum 200c for a few days in a row. One interesting thing I read recently said that if a person has sufficient iodine levels in your body, then ticks are not as likely to take a bite! Only an iodine loading test can tell someone if their levels are adequate.