September 30, 2015

Did you know that the gritty stuff in exfoliators is bad for the environment? These tiny balls of plastic, microbeads, are used in many personal care products. However did you ever wonder about what happens after you wash the exfoliator off? The beads go down the drain, past through our filtration system, and eventually end up in the ocean. Microbeads aren't biodegradable. Marine animals will take them into their bodies and the plastic will travel up the food chain, possibly ending up in humans too. The good news is that cosmetic companies are removing microbeads. Some have switched over to biodegradable alternatives. I recommend a homemade treatment of honey, lemon juice, and sugar.
*Special thanks to a friend for the suggestion. I definitely enjoyed looking this topic up!*

September 29, 2015

Did you know that nail polish can be quite harmful? Researchers have labeled three of the ingredients (toluene, formaldehyde, and dibutyl phthalate) as the "toxic trio." Not all three are always found in a single bottle. This has caused some concern because of the potential health risks to nail salon workers. Shops do not always have proper ventilation and so these employees have prolonged exposure to nail polish. What if you like painting your nails? Try some toxic free brands like Piggy Paint and Zoya.

September 28, 2015

Did you know that today is the birthday of Jodie Williams? She's a British sprinter who has won many recognitions. In 2009, she competed in the World Youth Championships and won gold medals in both the 100m and 200m dash. This made her the first girl to win both races in a single competition.

September 27, 2015

Did you know a spider only has flexor muscles to pull its legs inward? Instead it depends on a spike in blood pressure to extend its legs outward. When the poor guy dies, the lack of heartbeat causes the hydraulic system to shut down. The flexor muscles then go back into their relaxed state. Thus the legs stay permanently curled in. Now you know why spiders curl up when they die.

September 26, 2015

Did you know Ban Lan Gen, a Chinese herb, can be used to treat the common cold and other upper respiratory infections? Ban Lan Gen, also known as Isatis root, is used in traditional Chinese medicine. In animal tests, it has been shown to reduce inflammation and fever. It is believed that the herb stimulates the immune system to kill pathogens. However more research needs to be done on its effect on humans. Funny thing is that this same plant is used in indigo dye.

September 25, 2015

Did you know that only one Hercules baboon spider has ever been found? Believed to be one of the biggest spiders in the world, this specimen was collected about a hundred years ago. Either it's super rare or the poor guy went extinct already. But some pet stores try to pass the king baboon spider off as the Hercules. So for anyone looking for a giant pet spider, don't be fooled!

September 24, 2015

Did you know there is a Venice...in Japan? Yanagawa is a city located in the Fukuoka prefecture and is well known for the numerous canals that branch out from the main river. These canals have served as defense and transportation. But what if you want to ride a gondola? No worries. You can take the donkobune. Don't forget to check out the beautiful castle.