“You know what’s great about these little oxygen tubes in your nose?” said my sister when she was in recovery from surgery with some pain medication on board. “You can direct them on your face and get an oxygen facial!” Most of us have either had an occasion for a prescription pain killer or have a friend or family member who needed relief from acute pain when recovering from surgery.

When our mother was suffering from cancer, we were advised that medical marijuana could have brought her some relief. Unfortunately, at that time it was not legal in this state. However, since that has changed, people have worked diligently to put systems into place in Florida to help facilitate relief for those that qualify. The national spotlight has been focused on opioid addiction as the next health hurdle to overcome. “In 2016, the Center for Disease Control (CDC) reported a total of 66,000 opiate overdoses, not including heroin,” says Mary-Elizabeth Schurrer in our Spotlight article . “In contrast, there is no record of anyone overdosing from marijuana intake — ever.”

In our Healing Ways article, Better Options Than Opioids we share natural ways to reduce pain including meditation, yoga, acupuncture, marijuana, and CBD oil. “Opioids don’t work for chronic pain. They may be effective for acute pain, such as right after an injury or surgery, but they are ineffective and addictive in the long run.” says Fadel Zeidan, Ph.D. Locally, Treasure Coast chronic illness support group is finding that sharing coping skills and emotional aspects can be beneficial.

In this issue, our feature article shares how organic farmers are restoring the nutritional value of crops. Our cover artist, SusieQ Wood, designs eco-art with community participation to convey a message that supports the planet. Enjoy reading about more eco-artists. Consider natural solutions to shed stubborn pounds in our summer weight-loss section. Find out the link between GMO’s in pet food and health conditions in our furry family members and discover ten flavorful ways to lower disease risk. This Independence Day I hope you enjoy an eco-friendly and healthy celebration.

Happy 4^th of July!

Kris Urquhart, Publisher