Gifts From the Earth

Get Fabulous Feet

2011-05-21T12:40:00.000-07:00

Now that the weather is getting warmer, more people are wearing their sandals. It's time to get feet in beautiful shape. I came across a wonderful article in Organic Spa Magazine, it has great tips and information for pretty summer feet. I have reposted it below.

Be sure to visit Gifts From the Earth for our foot care special!

Conscious Care For Your Feet

Our feet keep us grounded to the earth’s energies while also taking us where we want to go. Ah, what faithful servants our feet are! It’s only fitting that we treat them with the care and attention they so richly deserve.

Each foot has 26 bones, 33 joints, 19 muscles, and 107 ligaments. Virtually supporting the entire body, feet tend to hold or reflect the state of your mind and heart. If you don’t believe me, consider the seemingly endless foot metaphors to describe our moods and inclinations: When decisive, self confident, flexible, and on the move, we’re fleet of foot or quick on our feet. When immobilized, weak or wishy-washy, we have feet of clay or are dragging our feet. We get a foot up on our business competitors, and our dogs howl after a long day of rushing around. So put your best foot forward and consider the following ways to nurture your feet:

Warm Water Soak

Many spas provide a foot bath and scrub ritual as a prelude to any service. The root of this practice is found in the hospitality customs of ancient civilizations. To provide at-home TLC, try one of these warm water treats. Add Epsom or sea salts (natural exfoliators) to relax the feet and soften rough, dry patches of skin. Another option: add 1 to 2 cups of pure, organic pineapple juice to a footbath. The enzyme bromelain naturally sloughs off dry skin. Or, shower or bathe to soften skin, then scrub calloused areas with a mixture of 1 tablespoon sea salt and 1 tablespoon sweet almond oil. A pumice stone and gentle body wash also work. Rinse, towel off, moisturize, then don fluffy organic cotton socks.

Foot Massage

Massage encourages better blood flow, and it just plain feels good. When you release tension in your feet, your mind-body physiology follows. Use a small amount of certified organic plant oil or lotion with several drops of organic geranium, lavender, patchouli, or tea tree essential oil, all of which possess potent anti-bacterial effects. Distribute the oil or lotion through the hands. Briskly stroke the soles, then massage the rest of the feet with small strokes. Work toward the heel, and thus toward your heart to direct blood flow. Gently pull each toe outward from base to tip. Put on organic cotton socks, and it’s time for bed!

Let Your Feet Breathe

With about 250,000 sweat glands, our feet can produce up to 8 ounces of sweat a day. Don’t use harsh products that attempt to block foot perspiration — it’s your body’s way of eliminating toxins.

• Take a footbath using essential oils with toning, astringent, and antiseptic properties—like eucalyptus, juniper, lavender, rosemary, and tea tree. Add 2 to 6 drops to warm water. The toning properties firm foot skin tissue, reducing the amount of oil and perspiration excreted. The antiseptic quality helps with potential odor.

• Soak your feet in a bath that’s been infused with black tea. Brew 2 tea bags in 2 pints of water, then add 2 quarts of cool water. The tannic acid acts as a drying agent and helps prevent odor.

Keep the Blood Flowing

It’s a long way from your heart to the tips of your toes. But for healthy, comfortable feet, it’s important to encourage blood flow. Massage and exercise play important roles, as do well-fitting shoes! Don’t forfeit comfort for style or you may walk a painful path, possibly filled with bunions, calluses, plantar fasciitis, deformed toes, and various other potential maladies (including musculoskeletal problems!).

Foot Yoga

Exercise is essential for maintaining the mobility and flexibility of your feet. Foot exercises may also relieve soreness. Naturally, see a podiatrist where warranted. Here are a few exercises that can be done anytime:

• Rock back and forth from your heels to toes for several minutes.

• Try picking up marbles with your toes.

• Lay a towel flat on the floor, then scrunch your toes up on the towel and draw the fabric toward you.

• Roll your arches over a tennis ball, golf ball or rolling pin.

• Stand in yoga’s Tadasana or mountain pose often for its foot rejuvenating benefits. Lift your toes and spread open wide before planting into the earth. Also, there are now yoga sandals that have spacers that separate each toe. They’re awesome!

Mary Beth Janssen is a highly respected beauty and wellness educator, certified mind-body-health educator for the Chopra Center for Well-Being, and the author of five books. To send her your questions, write to Marybeth@organicspamagazine.com.

Alchemy and Magic of Creating

2011-02-26T19:06:00.000-08:00

The secret to a rich life is to have more beginnings than endings - Dave Weinbaum

Everytime I create a batch of luscious lotion or a batch of relax...honey scrub or any other product I am playing with magic. Last week I got to use a new tool, my Ninja Pro blender.

As I waited for my oils to heat, I poured in the de-ionized full moon water and the other ingredients and watched a new world being created in this beautiful new tool of mine. I was filled with anticipation as to how it will work. Will the lotion be as lovely as always? Until now I never had the opportunity to notice how the ingredients interacted with each other. It truly is skincare alchemy. I could write a whole story about the creation of each product, every time I make a product I am still amazed by the process.

This got me thinking about how creating and new beginnings brings new freshness and lightness into the world. It is the same when I find a new ingredient to work with.

The newest ingredient I started using is an oil called Meadowfoam Oil.
Meadowfoam Oil is pressed from the seeds of Meadowfoam (Limnanthes alba), a plant which received its name because of its resemblance while in bloom to the white foam blowing on the ocean. Meadowfoam is native to northern California, southern Oregon, Vancouver Island, and British Columbia.

Meadowfoam oil contains over 98% long-chain fatty acids, and also has higher quality triglyceride levels when compared to other vegetable oils. In addition, it has three long chain fatty acids that were previously unknown before its discovery. It also has amazing moisturizing and rejuvenating capabilities, is very stable, and may be utilized for many different purposes.

When applied to the skin, it forms a moisture barrier and will assist the skin with preventing moisture loss. When added to lotions and lip balms, it will remoisturize dry or cracked lips and skin, and will make balms last longer. In summary, Meadowfoam oil has these beneficial characteristics:

•Moisturizes the skin
•Rejuvenates and adds shine to hair
•Ultra-violet protection (sunscreen applications)
•Non-greasy feeling, soaks into the skin easily
•Reduces wrinkles and signs of aging
•Blends well with other carrier oils
•Very stable, even under heat and air exposure
•Adheres well to the skin
•Binder, helps products retain their scent longer
•Stability extends product shelf life when combined with less stable ingredients

I have recently reformulated the Replenishing Vitamin Cream adding the Meadowfoam Oil to the blend...it has really supercharged this cream to moisturize skin and help reduce the signs of aging.

We are always on the look out for new ingredients to make our products more effective, in this way we have new beginnings and in turn enrich our customer's lives!

So how did my batch of lotion turn out? It was fantastic...smooth, creamy and luscious. My customers loved it!

The Sweetness of Bees

2011-01-19T07:02:00.000-08:00

While in the kitchen last night preparing dinner, I read an email from Avaaz.org about the peril of the bee population and a cry for a global ban of one group of pesticides that could save bees from extinction (Avaaz is a global web movement to bring people-powered politics to decision-making everywhere). So I thought you all might be interested in what the Bee means to the Gifts From the Earth product line. Bees provide our company with beeswax and honey granules (dried honey). These are 2 very essential ingredients in almost all of our products.

Beeswax

Beeswax is produced by the (female) worker honeybees. The wax is secreted from wax glands on the underside of the bee's abdomen and is molded into six-sided cells which are filled with honey, then capped with more wax. When honey is harvested, the top layer of wax that covers the cells, or the cappings, must be removed from each hexagon-shaped cell. Just to put it into perspective, one pound of wax requires the bees to consume about ten pounds of honey!

Beeswax works well in cosmetic products because of the “wax esthers” that exist in both beeswax and human skin and it is these compounds which help to bind and emulsify ointments, lipsticks and lotions. As a natural hydrating ingredient that increases essential moisture in skin, we use it in all of our creams and lotions to help retain natural skin moisture and in the relief of itching from sensitive skin.

Beeswax has an irritation potential of zero, and a comedogenicity rating of 0 - 2, which means that when formulated and used correctly in cosmetic formulations, beeswax will not cause a problem or clog the pores, but brings a host of very positive attributes, such as general healing and softening, as an antiseptic, and an emollient to cosmetic products. It contains elasticity and provides greater permanence on skin or lip surfaces.

Even after processing, it still remains a biologically active product, retaining some anti-bacterial properties and also contains some vitamin A, which is necessary for normal cell development.

Beeswax locks in moisture, fosters cells and protects skin from damaging environmental factors. It is a naturally nourishing moisturizer as well as being anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, anti-allergenic and a germicidal antioxidant." According to Botanical.com, "Even after processing, beeswax still remains a biologically active product, retaining some anti-bacterial properties and also contains some vitamin A, which is necessary for normal cell development." In folk medicine beeswax was used as an anticeptic for wound healing and beeswax ear candles were used for ear wax removal. They are believed to be able to heal ear infection and improve hearing by removing the wax inside the ear.

Honey

Honeybees use nectar to make honey. Nectar is almost 80% water with some complex sugars. In fact, if you have ever pulled a honeysuckle blossom out of its stem, nectar is the clear liquid that drops from the end of the blossom. In North America, bees get nectar from flowers like clovers, dandelions, berry bushes and fruit tree blossoms. They use their long, tubelike tongues like straws to suck the nectar out of the flowers and they store it in their "honey stomachs". Bees actually have two stomachs, their honey stomach which they use like a nectar backpack and their regular stomach. The honey stomach holds almost 70 mg of nectar and when full, it weighs almost as much as the bee does. Honeybees must visit between 100 and 1500 flowers in order to fill their honeystomachs.

The honeybees return to the hive and pass the nectar onto other worker bees. These bees suck the nectar from the honeybee's stomach through their mouths. These "house bees" "chew" the nectar for about half an hour. During this time, enzymes are breaking the complex sugars in the nectar into simple sugars so that it is both more digestible for the bees and less likely to be attacked by bacteria while it is stored within the hive. The bees then spread the nectar throughout the honeycombs where water evaporates from it, making it a thicker syrup. The bees make the nectar dry even faster by fanning it with their wings. Once the honey is gooey enough, the bees seal off the cell of the honeycomb with a plug of wax. The honey is stored until it is eaten. In one year, a colony of bees eats between 120 and 200 pounds of honey.

Honey is said to be a natural antiseptic due to its tendency to absorb the life-sustaining moisture out of bacterial cell walls. As such, we include it in our Mystic Seeds Scrub. Honey attracts the dirt from skin pores and dead skin cells from the surface of the skin. Which makes it a natural skin cleanser and softener.

I depend on these amazing little honeybees to provide my company with ingredients that make our products superior. Besides what they do for me, the honeybee is a major component in our food system. We have no time to lose -- a recent study shows 96% of our four main bee species have been wiped out. Let’s build a buzz across the nation calling on the EPA to outlaw these killer chemicals and save our bees and our food. Sign the emergency petition now and send it on to everyone and we’ll deliver it to the top decision makers:

SAVE THE BEES

Recent years have seen a steep and disturbing global decline in bee populations and scientists have been scrambling for answers. Some studies claim the decline may be due to a combination of factors including disease, habitat loss and toxic chemicals. But increasingly, independent research has produced strong evidence blaming neonicotinoid pesticides. France, Italy, Slovenia and even Germany, where the main manufacturer Bayer is based, have banned one of these bee killers. But, Bayer continues to export its poison across the world, and the US is one of its biggest markets.

We can no longer leave our delicate food chain in the hands of research run by the chemical companies and the regulators that are in their pockets. Banning this pesticide will move us closer to a world safe for ourselves and the other species we care about and depend on.

Thanks for taking the time to care...it is so important to our future!

SAVE THE BEES NOW!

Marianne Wilson Stein

Water and Clear Skin

2011-01-14T09:25:00.000-08:00

Water is the mother of the vine, The nurse and fountain of fecundity, The adorner and refresher of the world.

Charles Mackay - The Dionysia

Earlier this week I had a conversation with a customer who has been suffering from adult acne. I met with Julie at a holiday fair before Christmas. As we talked, I asked Julie what she did for her skin regiment. She told me that she usually washed with a soap based cleanser, never used moisturizer or if she did, used an "acne formula" moisturizer. Julie also told me that she used a liquid foundation that happened to be very old.

First thing I had Julie do was throw out her old makeup. Second thing I had Julie do was change her skin regiment. I explained to her that the appearance of oily skin was mostly due to the fact that she was stripping the oil from her skin every time she washed with a harsh cleanser. Then when she put her old foundation on, the bacteria in the foundation would find a way into her pores, thus causing her to break out. This would repeat the cycle everyday. I also told her to start using a moisturizer and to drink lots of water.

Back to my conversation with Julie earlier this week. She reported to me that she stopped using her makeup, is using a gentle cleanser and is now moisturizing and her skin is looking fabulous. She is also drinking lots of water.

Julie is now using our Earthly Dreams Cleansing Oil, moisturizing with our Moisturizing Gel and has switched her foundation to our Loose Powder Foundation (which will be up on our website later this month).

A benefit of drinking water is to carry nutrients into the cells of the body. In addition to helping nutrients get into the cells where they are needed, the benefit of drinking water in adequate amounts also helps to keep the cells well hydrated so they can function properly and efficiently. Water primarily stimulates the circulation of blood, fluids, and the necessary elements inside our body. Additionally, it also controls and regulates the skin's natural balance.

If you have a hard time drinking plain water add a slice of lemon, lime or orange for a refreshing treat. Or if you are cold, instead of reaching for that cup of coffee or tea, heat water and add a lemon slice. Enjoy!

The Tree of Life

2011-01-05T11:05:00.000-08:00

We live in the Pacific Northwest and winters are usually wet and cold. This winter has been dry and very cold as a result skin dries out. One way to combat this without moving is to increase the use of coconut in your life. This post is long but the information is great! Enjoy. Need help finding a good organic coconut oil? Let me know I have some waiting for you.

Every bit of the coconut is used. As a result, coconuts are called the “Tree of Life” and can produce drink, fiber, food, fuel, utensils, musical instruments, and much more.

The scientific name for coconut is Cocos nucifera. Early Spanish explorers called it coco, which means "monkey face" because the three indentations (eyes) on the hairy nut resembles the head and face of a monkey. Nucifera means "nut-bearing."
The coconut provides a nutritious source of meat, juice, milk, and oil that has fed and nourished populations around the world for generations. On many islands coconut is a staple in the diet and provides the majority of the food eaten. Nearly one third of the world's population depends on coconut to some degree for their food and their economy. Among these cultures the coconut has a long and respected history.
Coconut is highly nutritious and rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. It is classified as a "functional food" because it provides many health benefits beyond its nutritional content. Coconut oil is of special interest because it possesses healing properties far beyond that of any other dietary oil and is extensively used in traditional medicine among Asian and Pacific populations. Pacific Islanders consider coconut oil to be the cure for all illness. The coconut palm is so highly valued by them as both a source of food and medicine that it is called "The Tree of Life." Only recently has modern medical science unlocked the secrets to coconut's amazing healing powers.

Coconut In Traditional Medicine

People from many diverse cultures, languages, religions, and races scattered around the globe have revered the coconut as a valuable source of both food and medicine. Wherever the coconut palm grows the people have learned of its importance as a effective medicine. For thousands of years coconut products have held a respected and valuable place in local folk medicine.

In traditional medicine around the world coconut is used to treat a wide variety of health problems including the following: abscesses, asthma, baldness, bronchitis, bruises, burns, colds, constipation, cough, dropsy, dysentery, earache, fever, flu, gingivitis, gonorrhea, irregular or painful menstruation, jaundice, kidney stones, lice, malnutrition, nausea, rash, scabies, scurvy, skin infections, sore throat, swelling, syphilis, toothache, tuberculosis, tumors, typhoid, ulcers, upset stomach, weakness, and wounds.

Coconut In Modern Medicine

Modern medical science is now confirming the use of coconut in treating many of the above conditions. Published studies in medical journals show that coconut, in one form or another, may provide a wide range of health benefits. Some of these are summarized below and highlighted as related to skin:

Kills viruses that cause influenza, herpes, measles, hepatitis C, SARS, AIDS, and other illnesses.
Kills bacteria that cause ulcers, throat infections, urinary tract infections, gum disease and cavities, pneumonia, and gonorrhea, and other diseases.
Kills fungi and yeasts that cause candidiasis, ringworm, athlete's foot, thrush, diaper rash, and other infections.
Expels or kills tapeworms, lice, giardia, and other parasites.
Provides a nutritional source of quick energy.
Boosts energy and endurance, enhancing physical and athletic performance.
Improves digestion and absorption of other nutrients including vitamins, minerals, and amino acids.
Improves insulin secretion and utilization of blood glucose.
Relieves stress on pancreas and enzyme systems of the body.
Reduces symptoms associated with pancreatitis.
Helps relieve symptoms and reduce health risks associated with diabetes.
Reduces problems associated with malabsorption syndrome and cystic fibrosis.
Improves calcium and magnesium absorption and supports the development of strong bones and teeth.
Helps protect against osteoporosis.
Helps relieve symptoms associated with gallbladder disease.
Relieves symptoms associated with Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, and stomach ulcers.
Improves digestion and bowel function.
Relieves pain and irritation caused by hemorrhoids.
Reduces inflammation.
Supports tissue healing and repair.
Supports and aids immune system function.
Helps protect the body from breast, colon, and other cancers.
Is heart healthy; improves cholesterol ratio reducing risk of heart disease.
Protects arteries from injury that causes atherosclerosis and thus protects against heart disease.
Helps prevent periodontal disease and tooth decay.
Functions as a protective antioxidant.
Helps to protect the body from harmful free radicals that promote premature aging and degenerative disease.
Does not deplete the body's antioxidant reserves like other oils do.
Improves utilization of essential fatty acids and protects them from oxidation.
Helps relieve symptoms associated with chronic fatigue syndrome.
Relieves symptoms associated with benign prostatic hyperplasia (prostate enlargement).
Reduces epileptic seizures.
Helps protect against kidney disease and bladder infections.
Dissolves kidney stones.
Helps prevent liver disease.
Is lower in calories than all other fats.
Supports thyroid function.
Promotes loss of excess weight by increasing metabolic rate.
Is utilized by the body to produce energy in preference to being stored as body fat like other dietary fats.
Helps prevent obesity and overweight problems.
Applied topically helps to form a chemical barrier on the skin to ward of infection.
Reduces symptoms associated the psoriasis, eczema, and dermatitis.
Supports the natural chemical balance of the skin.
Softens skin and helps relieve dryness and flaking.
Prevents wrinkles, sagging skin, and age spots.
Promotes healthy looking hair and complexion.
Provides protection from damaging effects of ultraviolet radiation from the sun.
Helps control dandruff.
Does not form harmful by-products when heated to normal cooking temperature like other vegetable oils do.
Has no harmful or discomforting side effects.
Is completely non-toxic to humans.

See Research to read some of the published studies regarding the above mentioned uses of coconut products.

While coconut possesses many health benefits due to its fiber and nutritional content, it's the oil that makes it a truly remarkable food and medicine.

Once mistakenly believed to be unhealthy because of its high saturated fat content, it is now known that the fat in coconut oil is a unique and different from most all other fats and possesses many health giving properties. It is now gaining long overdue recognition as a nutritious health food.

Coconut oil has been described as "the healthiest oil on earth." That's quite a remarkable statement. What makes coconut oil so good? What makes it different from all other oils, especially other saturated fats?

The difference is in the fat molecule. All fats and oils are composed of molecules called fatty acids. There are two methods of classifying fatty acids. The first you are probably familiar with, is based on saturation. You have saturated fats, monounsaturated fats, and polyunsaturated fats. Another system of classification is based on molecular size or length of the carbon chain within each fatty acid. Fatty acids consist of long chains of carbon atoms with hydrogen atoms attached. In this system you have short-chain fatty acids (SCFA), medium-chain fatty acids (MCFA), and long-chain fatty acids (LCFA). Coconut oil is composed predominately of medium-chain fatty acids (MCFA), also known as medium-chain triglycerides (MCT).

The vast majority of fats and oils in our diets, whether they are saturated or unsaturated or come from animals or plants, are composed of long-chain fatty acids (LCFA). Some 98 to 100% of all the fatty acids you consume are LCFA.

The size of the fatty acid is extremely important. Why? Because our bodies respond to and metabolize each fatty acid differently depending on its size. So the physiological effects of MCFA in coconut oil are distinctly different from those of LCFA more commonly found in our foods. The saturated fatty acids in coconut oil are predominately medium-chain fatty acids. Both the saturated and unsaturated fat found in meat, milk, eggs, and plants (including most all vegetable oils) are composed of LCFA.

MCFA are very different from LCFA. They do not have a negative effect on cholesterol and help to protect against heart disease. MCFA help to lower the risk of both atherosclerosis and heart disease. It is primarily due to the MCFA in coconut oil that makes it so special and so beneficial.
There are only a very few good dietary sources of MCFA. By far the best sources are from coconut and palm kernel oils.

Copyright © 2004 Coconut Research Center
The information supplied here comes from a variety of sources and authors and not every statement made has been evaluated by the FDA. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

Is a coconut a fruit, nut or seed?

Botanically speaking, a coconut is a fibrous one-seeded drupe, also known as a dry drupe. However, when using loose definitions, the coconut can be all three: a fruit, a nut, and a seed. Botanists love classification. However, classification of plants can be a complicated matter for the average person. Coconuts are classified as a fibrous one-seeded drupe. A drupe is a fruit with a hard stony covering enclosing the seed (like a peach or olive) and comes from the word drupa meaning overripe olive. A coconut, and all drupes, have three layers: the exocarp (outer layer), the mesocarp (fleshy middle layer), and the endocarp (hard, woody layer that surrounds the seed).

The coconut we buy in the store does not resemble the coconut you find growing on a coconut palm. An untouched coconut has three layers. The outermost layer, which is typically smooth with a greenish color, is called the exocarp. The next layer is the fibrous husk, or mesocarp, which ultimately surrounds the hard woody layer called the endocarp. The endocarp surrounds the seed. Generally speaking, when you buy a coconut at the supermarket the exocarp and the mesocarp are removed and what you see is the endocarp.
Yet another interesting aspect of the coconut that has baffled scientists for over 200 years is where did it originate? Is it of Old World or New World origin? Scientists have used art, botany, entomology, etymology, folklore, fossils, genetics, and travel records to try to figure out where the coconut first appeared.

Odoardo Beccari, a renowned palm specialist from the early 20th century, suggests that the coconut is of Old World origin and more than likely came from the Indian Archipelago or Polynesia. To strengthen his argument, there are more varieties of coconut palms in the Eastern hemisphere than in the Americas.

However, some scientists (O.F. Cook , H.B. Guppy, K.F.P. von Martius,) argue that the coconut is of New World origins, having migrated westward across the Pacific.

Other Interesting Coconut Facts

•When intra-venous (IV) solution was in short supply, doctors during World War II and Vietnam used coconut water in substitution of IV solutions.
•Botanically, the coconut palm is not a tree since there is no bark, no branches, or secondary growth. A coconut palm is a woody perennial monocotyledon with the trunk being the stem.

•Possibly the oldest reference is from Cosmas, a 5th century AD Egyptian traveler. He wrote about the “Indian nut” or “nut of India” after visiting India and Ceylon, Some scholars believe Cosmas was describing a coconut.
•Soleyman, an Arab merchant, visited China in the 9th century and describes the use of coir fiber and toddy made from coconuts.
•In 16th century, Sir Francis Drake called coconut “nargils”, which was the common term used until the 1700’s when the word coconut was established.

•It takes 11 -12 months for the coconut to mature.
•At one time scientists identified over 60 species of Cocos palm. Today, the coconut is a monotypic with one species, nucifera. However, there are over 80 varieties of coconut palms, which are defined by characteristics such as dwarf and tall.
•Coconut growing regions are as far north as Hawaii and as far south as Madagascar.

This information was derived from many sources from the Library of Congress.

Keeping me happy

2010-11-04T09:07:00.000-07:00

My daughter went off to college in Philadelphia this past August. I feel good about it...she is so happy and I miss her terribly. This past summer before she left we worked together and had a lot of fun. We hand painted floor cloths and boxes to sell at our local farmers market. We even worked the market together and shared in our love of people and dog watching. I write about this now because I am once again amazed at how the universe works.

The title of this blog post is "Keeping me happy", not keeping my family happy, not keeping my friends happy, keeping me happy. I have been able to keep me happy through my creative expression. I have always dreamed of being an artist, defining myself as an artist.

Yes, I am an artist when it comes to creating luscious beauty...that is my art for nurturing others. My painting and collage work is art for me...and bonus when someone comes along and purchases a piece that I created. I have learned over the years to pay attention to the signs that are posted in front of me (well some are not quite so clear) and to listen for those signs as well. Katherine going off to college has given me the opportunity to become that artist. It is all about perfected timing and intuition. I can't really tell you how it happens, all I know is that I get an inclination to do something or to see something differently and embrace what is coming over me. When that happens things seem to fall into place and life offers wonderful possibilites.

What does this have to do with the Big Smoke Butter Nail Polish photo? Everything! My friend Yessica and I were out looking for retail spaces for our businesses to move into and we happened upon a great little boutique. Yessica found a pair of sandals like the ones she used to wear growing up, and me, well, I found the nail polish. Anyone who knows me knows that I never wear polish on my hands...yes, I get pedicures and love that luxury! I use my hands so much for art and skin care that I just don't wear polish. I just had to have this color...it's like smoky eyes on my nails. I still haven't used it yet, oh I will soon. I am just happy for now being inspired by it. The inclination will come and when it does I will know what to do...

What are you doing to keep you happy?

How the Safe Cosmetics Bill will Affect Natural Cosmetics

2010-07-27T08:01:00.000-07:00

I have reposted below a blog post from Cindy Jones at sagescript.blogpost.com. Her post was so concise and elegant explaining why we oppose the Safe Cosmetics Bill - HR 5786 that I thought I would share it with you.

Oppose a law that would put small cosmetics companies out of business! I know there are a lot of people here who don't sell cosmetics. Thank you for being here with us as a small business owner! If you like to use cosmetics with a high proportion of natural ingredients, know that the Safe Cosmetics Act of 2010 will put your favorite natural companies out of business. Please take a moment to read and sign our Petition opposing this law. Here's the link: oppose safe cosmetics bill. You can leave your comments and questions here too. Thanks!

How the Safe Cosmetics Bill will Affect Natural Cosmetics

As you may have heard, the Campaign for Safe Cosmetics has recently introduced the Safe Cosmetics Act of 2010, HR 5786. I’m sure you want safe cosmetics as everyone does so this bill probably sounds good. However, it has nothing to do with safe cosmetics and you can read this bill here.

I wanted to address what this bill would mean for the many small scale cosmetics companies like myself that already make safe, non-toxic and natural cosmetics; many of whom initially signed and now regret signing the Safe Cosmetics Pledge.

Plants such as herbs are tiny chemical factories making hundreds or thousands of biochemicals; many of which are beneficial to us, many others that have little or no effect on us, and a few that are toxic to us. Plants however have the tendency to balance these characteristics of toxic and non-toxic and tend not to be so black and white about it as we are.

Take for instance caffeic acid. This molecule is made in most plants including herbs such as rosemary, sage, and parsley. Caffeic acid and caffeic acid phenethyl ester are part of the shikimic acid pathway of plants that forms flavonoids, tannins, and lignin (wood). Caffeic acid is considered a carcinogen by the International Agency for Cancer Research appearing on its list 2B of “possibly carcinogenic to humans”. This is because of a few small studies showing that ingestion of high amounts of caffeic acid caused stomach and kidney papillomas (pre-cancer) in rodents. There is no data available regarding cancer in humans. You can read the summary from IARC here.

With just this information you may say, "of course, I do not want this chemical in my skin care products or in my food as I'd rather be safe". However, further investigation shows that caffeic acid is also considered an anti-carcinogen, an antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory. As an anticancer agent it modulates many aspects of carcinogenesis including stimulating phase II enzymes to detoxify carcinogens entering the body and it stimulates cancer cell death, Topically, it can protect cells from damage caused by UV radiation (such as skin cancer). Many research labs are now studying its effectiveness as an anticancer agent.

Also found on the IARC list 1A of ‘known human carcinogens’ are things like jet fuel, gasoline, radioactivity and aflatoxins; things that would never go into cosmetics in the first place and are already prohibited as being toxic substances. However, there are other chemicals commonly found in natural cosmetics that are on various IARC lists of carcinogens. Here are some, followed by which list they are on:

coffee (2B), alcohol (1), eugenol a constituent of many essential oils (3), mate (Peruvian tea), kojic acid (3), d-limonene (3), microcystin (2B), microcystis extracts (3), progestins (and estrogens) (2B), quercetin (3), tannic acid and tannins (3), tea (3), theobromine (3), theophylline (3), vitamin K (3), stress and titanium dioxide (2B). Estrogen such as in birth control pills is ranked on the 1A list of ‘known human carcinogens”. Keep in mind that use of birth control pills is the number one contributor to the build up of estrogens in the waterways.

A few of these chemicals that I am personally quite fond of in my products include tea, tannic acid, theobromine, theophylline, vitamin K and eugenol. Tea such as green tea is rich in tannic acid, quercetin, theobromine and theophylline. Studies have found that the flavonoids in green tea can prevent signs of aging, inhibit formation of skin cancer and block damaging effects of UV light.

Vitamin K (phylloquinone) is of course an essential chemical necessary for human life and is necessary for blood clotting. Because one study showed that when injected into the peritoneal cavity it caused cancer it is on the list of 'carcinogens'. Vitamin K is found in many herbs and oils including parsley, basil and sea buckthorn oil.

Quercitin, a flavonoid found in many herbs, has been found to be anticarcinogenic, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant. It is found in a wide variety of plants including tea, red wine, berries and herbs.

Microcystis is a blue green algae that produces microcystin. Although it is indeed toxic, it also contaminates some blue green algae extracts making it necessary to test these ingredients.

Kojic acid is derived from a mushroom and used in many products as a natural way to lighten age spots. Eugenol is found in many essential oils including clove, nutmeg, cinnamon, basil and bay leaf. These oils are commonly used in natural perfumery. Many herbs and vegetable oils are rich in phytoestrogens and progestins that are good for moisturizing the skin, providing antioxidants and giving skin that youthful look. Oftentimes these phytoestrogens are referred to as ‘nonsaponifiables’. Oils rich in phytoestrogens include olive oil, rice bran oil, soy oil, wheat germ oil, pumpkin oil, pomegranate oil, sea buckthorn oil, raspberry seed oil and the list goes on and on. If you use vegetable oils in your skin care products, regardless of whether or not they are organic, they may be prohibited by this bill because they contain phytoestrogens.

Because ingredients of vegetable origin are more complex than synthetic ingredients all of their components could not possibly be tested for safety leaving the only ingredients allowable in cosmetics to be highly processed and purified synthetic chemicals unfortunately.

Summer Sunburn

2010-07-22T08:41:00.000-07:00

Sunburns hurt and are really not good for your skin, excessive exposure can cause skin cancer and wrinkled skin. If you were having fun in the sun and got sunburn I have some remedies for you.

Folk Remedies

Aloe Take as many leaves as necessary from an aloe plant; refrigerate; peel off top layer of leaves; apply the side of the leaf with flesh exposed directly to the sunburn. Other remedies use aloe vera juice: for mild to medium sunburn, keep the affected area moist with aloe vera juice. Repeat frequently. This will reduce the pain and the amount of peeling. Aloe vera ointment works well, too, as it contains oil and will not evaporate. For a severe sunburn, keep the area moist at all times with aloe vera juice. Since aloe vera is an astringent, you may want to use aloe vera ointment or some sort of oil, such as olive or baby. Aloe is very effective in relieving pain and inflammation.

Combine aloe juice with ½ the amount of vitamin E. Dab on the sunburn. Vitamin E is a good moisturizer.

Apple cider vinegar Apply apple cider vinegar to the burn with a cottonball, or make a cooling compress for a large area to relieve the pain. Keep the skin moistened. This remedy will prevent blistering and peeling.

Aspirin Aspirin kills the pain and reduces inflammation and redness of a sunburn. It short-circuits the whole sunburn process. It must be taken within 24 hours of getting sunburned. Aspirin is preferable to ibuprofen or acetaminophen because it is less stressful on the liver and kidneys.

Baking soda Dissolve some baking soda in water and make a compress using a clean cloth. Another remedy is to add 1/2 cup of baking soda to a tepid bath and soak. Instead of drying the affected area with a towel, let it air dry. Baking soda is cooling and will help the skin retain moisture.

Baths Add 20 drops of each of lavender and chamomile essential oils to a tubful of cool water and soak for 10 minutes. Or add bergamot oil to cool bathwater.

Calendula Put 20 drops of calendula tincture in four ounces of water and bathe the skin until the pain goes away. Calendula is also available in gels and salves. Calendula will help soften and heal burned skin. It is anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial, and can be used long after the burn to heal the skin.

Cucumber Rub sunburned area with fresh cucumber slices. They are very cool and will soothe the area.

Epsom salts Dissolve epsom salts in water and make a compress using a clean cloth.

Ice Apply ice or cold water to the burned area. This will stop the burning process and cool the skin.

Lavender Mix 20-25 drops of lavender oil in one cup of water and bathe the sunburned area.

Lemon water Mix the juice of three lemons into two cups of cold water and sponge on the sunburn. The lemon will cool the burn, act as a disinfectant, and will promote healing of the skin.

Milk Make a compress of whole milk (or buttermilk) and apply to the burned area for 20 minutes; repeat every two to four hours. Wash the milk off so you won't smell sour! The fat content of the milk is soothing for burns.

A similar remedy suggests using a cup of skim milk and four cups of water, adding a few ice cubes, and applying as a compress as recommended above.

Oatmeal Put some oatmeal in tepid bath water, soak for a few minutes, then air dry yourself.

Peppermint Apply peppermint oil to the sunburned skin. You can also make a mild peppermint infusion with fresh peppermint leaves and water and use it as a wash to cool the sunburn.

Potato Grate a potato and apply it to the burned area. The starch will cool and soothe the burn.

St. Johns Wort Make an ointment or salve with the essential oil of St. Johns wort for burns that have not broken the skin. It is anti-inflammatory, antiviral and antibacterial. Caution: St. John's wort makes the skin more photosensitive, so stay out of the sun if you have used this remedy or if you are taking another form as an antidepressant.
Shower Take a warm shower to draw out the heat of your sunburn. The warm water will increase circulation to the area while hydrating it, thereby speeding the healing process.

Tea Make some tea, cool, and apply to the burn. While any tea may be beneficial, mint tea, such as peppermint or spearmint are especially good. The teas have tannins that help the healing process.

Urtica urens Put 20 drops of urtica urens tincture in four ounces of water and bathe the skin. This remedy is good for itchy, prickly skin.

Witch hazel Make a decoction of witch hazel and apply with a compress.

Yarrow Native Americans used an infusion of ground yarrow as a wash.

Yogurt Apply plain yogurt with live cultures, let it stand for a few minutes, then rinse off under cool water.

Another remedy using yogurt is to mix equal parts of yogurt and mashed strawberries and apply to the sunburned area for 15 minutes. Rinse with cool water.

Caution! You may have sun poisoning if you experience chills, fever, or get blisters or a rash. See your physician! Also, do not ever cover a sunburn that is blistered or open with an ointment, oil, salve, butter or lotion as it can make the area susceptible to infection.

Toxic Burden: Women Put 515 Chemicals on Their Faces Every Day

2010-04-21T10:01:00.000-07:00

Tuesday, December 29, 2009 by: E. Huff, staff writer for http://www.naturalnews.com/

(NaturalNews) A study published by Bionsen, a company in the United Kingdom that sells aluminum-free body products, found that the average woman applies 515 chemicals to her face a day. Makeup, perfumes, lotions, mascara, and other beauty products all contribute to the toxic brew that is causing health problems for many women.

The study revealed that the typical woman uses about 13 different beauty products a day. Most of these products contain at least 20 ingredients and additives, many of which can have a detrimental effect on the body and skin. Perfumes alone were found to contain up to 400 different ingredients.

Other products that were tested include lipstick, body lotions and mascara which contained an average of 30 ingredients each. Aside from aluminum, many of these products contain other harmful ingredients like synthetic dyes, fragrances, and parabens. When applied continually, the many beauty products that women use are exposing them to wide range of carcinogens.

The perpetual advent of new and innovative beauty products has led to a massive increase in product usage over the years. What was once a basic cleansing protocol has turned into a lifestyle of trying the latest and greatest products in an effort to maintain youthful beauty. As a result, women are exposed to more toxic carcinogens from beauty products than ever.

An Environmental Working Group (EWG) study from 2006 found that less than one percent of all cosmetic products are made from ingredients that have all undergone safety assessments. The great majority of products contain known carcinogens, reproductive toxins and various other harmful chemicals that cause serious diseases like cancer.

The EWG study found that the average person uses up to 25 personal care products per day. Among these, about 200 different chemicals will have been added to scent, preserve, synthesize and stabilize them for consumption. Many of these ingredients will end up causing hormonal disruption and immune dysfunction. In younger people, developmental problems are likely to result from excessive product use.

Makeup usage among younger girls has also increased. About 90 percent of 14-year-old girls now use makeup, according to a research study conducted by Mintel Internation Group in 2004. Sixty-three percent of girls as young as seven are now using lipstick, eyeliner, eye shadow and mascara.

As consumers are becoming more aware of many beauty product ingredients and the harm they are causing, product manufacturers are beginning to remove many of them from their formulations. Those concerned would do best to purchase only products that have minimal or no toxic ingredients. Greatly reducing one's cosmetic arsenal is the next best option.

Do you know what is in your cosmetics? Let me help you decipher the list, send it to me and I will help you come up with a healthy alternative.

Food for the Skin

2010-03-28T11:35:00.000-07:00

The wise man should consider that health is the greatest of human blessings. Let food be your medicine. - Hippocrates

I like this quote very much because it keeps us in control of supporting our own bodies. When it comes to taking care of the skin it is important to eat foods that nourish and support skin tissue. Below is a list of 13 foods that are easy to incorporate into your diet. Try to eat as many as you can in a week.

Here is a challenge for you: Eat as many of these skin nourishing foods as you can this week and let me know how many you ate. The person who incorporates the most of these foods into their diet this week will receive a nourishing skin care gift! Have fun experimenting.

Adzuki Beans

These beans are available canned or dried. Adukis are one of the highest protein and lowest fat varieties of bean. They contain high levels of potassium and fiber, as well as B vitamins such as thiamin, niacin, and riboflavin, and minerals such as iron, zinc, and manganese. As a high-potassium, low-sodium food they can help reduce blood pressure and act as a natural diuretic. When combined with grains, beans supply high quality protein, which provides a healthy alternative to meat or other animal protein. The fiber in Adzuki beans binds to toxins and cholesterol aiding in their elimination from the body.

Almonds

24 almonds have 6 grams of protein and 9 grams of monsaturated fats. They contain almost half the recommended daily requirement of vitamin e, 7% daily calcium requirements and a notable amount of zinc.

Blueberries

Packed with antioxidant phytonutrients called anthocyanidins, blueberries neutralize free radical damage to the collagen matrix of cells and tissues that can lead to cataracts, glaucoma, varicose veins, hemorrhoids, peptic ulcers, heart disease and cancer. Anthocyanins, the blue-red pigments found in blueberries, improve the integrity of support structures in the veins and entire vascular system. Anthocyanins have been shown to enhance the effects of vitamin C, improve capillary integrity, and stabilize the collagen matrix (the ground substance of all body tissues). They work their protective magic by preventing free-radical damage, inhibiting enzymes from cleaving the collagen matrix, and directly cross-linking with collagen fibers to form a more stable collagen matrix.

Collard Greens

Rich in health-promoting phytonutrients, optimize cells' detoxification and cleansing ability, broad antioxidant protection, high in calcium, optimizes immune function, promotes lung health, high in folate, rich in vitamin e. There is so much information about collard greens I recommend visiting the following link to read more about them. More information on collard greens.

Garlic

Contains antimicrobial compounds that protect skin from fungus, these beneficial compounds found in garlic degrade immediately after chopping and cooking so add garlic at the end of cooking. Other compounds found in garlic can have a powerful antioxidant effect. Antioxidants can help to protect the body against damaging free radicals.

Grapeseed Oil
Grapeseed oil is a rich source of lionleic acid, an essential fatty acid which helps heal damaged skin. It contains proanthocyanidin - an antioxidant that may prevent sun damage. Fatty acids may also control inflammatory responses. Grapeseed oil has a high smoke point and is safe for cooking. Be sure the grapeseed oil you buy has been expeller pressed and is organic.

Hummus

Hummus is made by combining pureed garbanzo beans, garlic, tahini, lemon juice and other ingredients. Hummus is a good source of cholesterol-lowering fiber, as are most other beans. In addition to lowering cholesterol, garbanzos' high fiber content prevents blood sugar levels from rising too rapidly after a meal, making these beans an especially good choice for individuals with diabetes, insulin resistance or hypoglycemia. When combined with whole grains such as rice, garbanzos provide virtually fat-free high quality protein. But this is far from all garbanzos have to offer. Garbanzos are an excellent source of the trace mineral, molybdenum, an integral component of the enzyme sulfite oxidase, which is responsible for detoxifying sulfites. Sulfites are a type of preservative commonly added to prepared foods like delicatessen salads and salad bars. Persons who are sensitive to sulfites in these foods may experience rapid heartbeat, headache or disorientation if sulfites are unwittingly consumed. If you have ever reacted to sulfites, it may be because your molybdenum stores are insufficient to detoxify them. Garbanzos are also a rich source of iron. Iron is an integral component of hemoglobin, which transports oxygen from the lungs to all body cells, and is also part of key enzyme systems for energy production and metabolism. And remember: If you're pregnant or lactating, your needs for iron increase. Growing children and adolescents also have increased needs for iron.

Kiwi Fruit

Kiwi fruits are rich in many vitamins, flavonoids and minerals. In particular, they contain a high amount of Vitamin C (more than oranges), as much potassium as bananas and a good amount of beta-carotene. Vitamin c is important because it helps build collagen and prevents sun damage. Eating kiwi fruit is clearly a healthy choice, and it is particularly useful in these cases:

•Prevents Asthma
•Prevents wheezing and coughing, especially in children
•Protects our DNA from mutations
•Provides a healthy amount of antioxidants and vitamins
•Helps prevent colon cancer thanks to a high fiber content

Lentils

Lentils, a small but nutritionally mighty member of the legume family, are a very good source of cholesterol-lowering fiber. Not only do lentils help lower cholesterol, they are of special benefit in managing blood-sugar disorders since their high fiber content prevents blood sugar levels from rising rapidly after a meal. Lentils also provide good to excellent amounts of six important minerals, two B-vitamins, and protein-all with virtually no fat. Lentils are very rich in protein (about 26%), folic acid, and both soluble and insoluble dietary fiber. Lentils are also very high in Vitamin C and the B vitamins, and contain eight of the essential amino acids. They also contain many trace minerals. Lentils are one of the highest sources of antioxidants found in winter growing legumes.

Olive Oil
Extra-virgin olive oil, which, when properly cold pressed and stored in opaque containers, is naturally high in phenolic compounds with antioxidant properties. And its rich supply of polyphenols, which are known to have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and anticoagulant actions, may also be central to emerging evidence that olive oil's protective effects extend to colon cancer and osteoporosis. The monounsaturated fats in olive oil are used by the body to produce substances which are relatively anti-inflammatory.

Salmon
Salmon is high in protein, and a unique type of health-promoting fat, the omega-3 essential fatty acids. As their name implies, essential fatty acids are essential for human health but because they cannot be made by the body, they must be obtained from foods. Fish contain a type of essential fatty acid called the omega-3 fatty acids. Wild-caught cold water fish, like salmon, are higher in omega-3 fatty acids than warm water fish. In fact, the fat composition of salmon has recently been evaluated as superior not only because of its rich omega-3 content, but also because of its great ratio of omega-3s to omega-6s and its health-supportive balance of saturated, monounsaturated, and polyunsaturated fats. Each of these features in the fat composition of salmon helps reduce risk of unwanted inflammation and help maintain the integrity of our immune and circulatory systems. In addition to being an excellent source of omega-3s, salmon are an excellent source of selenium, a very good source of protein, niacin and vitamin B12, and a good source of phosphorus, magnesium and vitamin B6. Another benefit of omega-3s anti-inflammatory effects may be their ability to protect our skin against sunburn, and possibly, skin cancer, keeping skin resilient. It is recommended that U.S. farmed salmon should be consumed at rates of less than 10 portions per month. Salmon from Northern European farms should be consumed less than 4 times per month. Wild salmon can be consumed once a day. We recommend that you eat only wild salmon.

Shitake Mushrooms

The various nutrients found in shiitake mushrooms have been tested and found to reduce cholesterol, inhibit the growth of cancer cells, and contain the highest concentration of a potent antioxidant of any other food tested. It's constituents are lentinan, eritadenine, iron, vitamin C, protein, L-ergothioneine.

Tomatoes

Tomatoes are high in lycopene. This carotenoid found in tomatoes (and everything made from them) has been extensively studied for its antioxidant and cancer-preventing properties. The antioxidant function of lycopene-its ability to help protect cells and other structures in the body from oxygen damage-has been linked in human research to the protection of DNA (our genetic material) inside of white blood cells. Tomatoes are an excellent source of vitamin C and vitamin A, the latter notably through its concentration of carotenoids including beta-carotene. These antioxidants travel through the body neutralizing dangerous free radicals that could otherwise damage cells and cell membranes, escalating inflammation and the progression or severity of atherosclerosis, diabetic complications, asthma, and colon cancer. In fact, high intakes of these antioxidants have been shown to help reduce the risk or severity of all of these illnesses. In addition, tomatoes are a very good source of fiber, which has been shown to lower high cholesterol levels, keep blood sugar levels from getting too high, and help prevent colon cancer. A cup of fresh tomato will provide you with 57.3% of the daily value for vitamin C, plus 22.4% of the DV for vitamin A, and 7.9% of the DV for fiber.

Wheat Germ
Wheat germ contains phytosterols which have been shown to lower cholesterol and promote heart health. In addition, wheat germ contains high amounts of vitamin E, an antioxidant that helps protect the body from damaging free radicals. Wheat germ is also a good source of omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3 fatty acids promote heart health by lowering cholesterol and blood pressure, are important for nervous system functioning, and help elevate mood. Wheat germ is also a good source of fiber which has many benefits including improved bowel function and may reduce the risk of developing heart disease and diabetes and prevent weight gain.

Eating good healthy food and using good healthy "food" for your skin will create a winning combination. Remember, looking good is not the only benefit from eating nourishing food and using nutrient rich skin care products. Other benefits include, feeling good, avoiding major illness, being able to be active your whole life.

Have a question about your skin? Or ingredients in skin care products? We are just a click away.

5 Easy Beauty Tricks

2010-03-17T22:21:00.000-07:00

Women need real moments of solitude and self-reflection to balance out how much of ourselves we give away.
Barbara De Angelis

I love this quote because it reminds me of how important it is to take time for ourselves. Last night we offered an evening of pampering and renewal. I applaud the women who responded and participated. These are busy women who give a lot of themselves everyday. We were able to reward them with foot soaks, hand soaks, facials and a sample of special treatments to take home.

I understand not everyone has the time or money to make this committment, but there are things that we can all do to look and feel more beautiful. I will give you my top 5 beauty tricks.

1. Use your shower to improve your skin

Before you step in the shower, massage a drop of grapeseed oil into the skin around your eyes for 10 minutes. It will improve the skin texture. The oil contains antioxidants that fight wrinkle-causing free radicals.

2. Sleep on two pillows

Keeping your head elevated prevents fluid from collecting around your eyes during the night and causing puffiness in the morning. Better yet, sleep on an orthopedic pillow.

3. Put your eye cream in the fridge
In the morning put on cold eye cream, the cold temperature shrinks blood vessels and helps to minimize under-eye bags.

4. Invest in a magnifying mirror

To zero in on stray hairs-around your eyebrows and elsewhere-skip the reading glasses and pick up a small magnifying mirror. If purchasing a new one, buy one with a light around the the perimeter. You may be surprised at what you'll see in a different light and perspective. A magnifying mirror is also a great tool for applying makeup on the eyes!

5. Don't forget neck and chest area
Treat your neck and chest as gently as you treat your face because the skin there is so thin. Be sure to cleanse and moisturize.

These are 5 of many tricks, but we have to start somewhere. The most important thing you can do for yourself is to be happy and believe that you are beautiful!

Need a Beauty Coach? We are available for private or group consultations...

Daily Regiment Part 3 - Scrubs - Masks

2010-03-09T10:59:00.000-08:00

You’ve been cleansing and moisturizing and you find that your skin needs something else. Have you been drinking lots of water? How is your exercise routine? Are you getting enough fresh fruits and vegetables? Have you just sat outside (with or without a hat) and just been in the moment with your garden, the forest, the lake or the mountain?

Things are really starting to transform, we are coming out of winter and transitioning into spring, now is a good time to look at your skin and determine what else it needs.

Whether your skin is dry, sluggish, acne prone or blotchy there is a scrub or mask out there for you. And it is a great idea to use a scrub/mask regularly as it helps to deep clean your skin and impart a healthy glow. First, I will give an overview of ingredients and their purpose, and then we can see how all of the ingredients can be beneficial to each other in synergistic blends.

Almonds: Almonds are rich in vitamins, minerals and beneficial oils, which are used to cleanse and heal the skin. Almonds are very rich in Vitamin E which is essential for healthy skin. Almonds also have significant quantities of Vitamin B and several other minerals that help to keep the skin well nourished. It has a very high omega-3 content. Omega-3 is an essential fatty acid that helps to keep the skin supple. Crushed almonds are an effective emollient as it is easily absorbed by the skin. Almonds have been known to prevent premature appearance of wrinkles, black heads, pimples and dry skin as well.

Clays: Clay is a great ingredient for detoxifying and purification as it draws impurities from the skin and imparts trace elements and nutrients into the skin. Traditionally, clays are used to reduce swelling and inflammation, and to draw impurities from the skin. Cosmetic clays are made up of different mineral contents, and each clay type has a different effect on the skin. Regular use of clay facials will remove dead skin cells, improve circulation to the skin, remove debris from the pores and bring about a smooth healthy glow.

Kaolin (white) Clay: Kaolin clay is the mildest of the clays and is great for sensitive skin. It helps stimulate circulation while gently exfoliating and cleansing.

Kaolin Clay is high in calcium, silica, zinc and magnesium, which are beneficial for oily, blemished skin. The clay's mildly drying and disinfectant properties help heal existing blemishes and inflammations, while preventing new ones from forming. The high mineral content of White Kaolin Clay rejuvenates the skin while the clay exfoliates and stimulates blood circulation to the skin. It does not draw oils from the skin, so it can also be used on dry skin types without negative results.

French Green Clay: French Green Clay is amazing for the face. It is still very gentle but also very rich in essential minerals. It assists the skin by bringing fresh blood to damaged skin cells, revitalizing the complexion, and tightening pores.

French Green Clay (AKA Illite Clay or Sea Clay) contains valuable elements, which include montmorillonite, several important mineral oxides, magnesium, calcium, potassium, dolomite, silica, manganese, phosporous, silicon, copper, and selenium. In French Green Clay, each element is responsible for working the outer epidermis (skin) in its own way and in dispensing their biological constituents as best as possible. This clay has a long history of being the clay of choice for spas and health care professionals.

Flaxseed: Flaxseeds are high in Omega-3 fatty acids, flaxseeds create an emollient gel when water is added, used to soothe, nourish and heal the skin. Flaxseed also balances sebum production.

Honey: Honey's natural antioxidant and anti-microbial properties help to protect the skin from the damage of the sun's rays, supports the skin's ability to rejuvenate and refresh depleted skin, leaving it feeling silky soft and supple. One of the most common skin benefits of honey is related to minor acne treatment. Honey absorbs impurities from the pores on the skin, making it an ideal cleansing agent.

Honey's ability to absorb and retain moisture make it an ideal ingredient in a lot of cosmetics as it helps keep skin hydrated and fresh and prevents drying. It is known that ancient beauties regularly applied a mixture of honey and milk to the face to keep the skin young-looking, radiant, and smooth.

Oats: Oats have naturally occurring gluten in the form of avenin protein, creating an emollient gel when wet, and amino acids and trace elements that are highly soothing to inflamed and irritated skin. Oats are very gentle as a facial scrub for sensitive skin.

Pumpkin Seeds: It appears that the biggest skin benefits of pumpkin seeds are the very high levels of the natural antioxidants and polyunsaturated fatty acids. They are a rich source of vitamin k, also containing manganese, magnesium, phosphorous, iron, copper and zinc. Pumpkin Seeds are also an anti-inflammatory. Adding pumpkin seeds to your skin care regiment will help your skin retain moisture, maintain normal cell structure and keep your skin looking and feeling healthy.

Rice bran: Known as an ancient Japanese secret for smooth, soft skin, rice bran is a gentle exfoliating powder. Rice bran is rich in oil, makes an effective exfoliant and contains phytic acid, a B-complex vitamin that can help improve blood circulation and stimulate cell turnover when used topically. It is said to prevent wrinkles, heal blemishes, absorb dirt and oil from pores, balance natural oils in the skin and moisturize.

Sunflower Seeds: Sunflower seeds provide a lot of vitamin e, a powerful antioxidant that helps slow down the aging of skin. The seeds also provide essential fatty acids that help keep the skin lubricated and soft. This food for the skin is thought to reduce the appearance of blackheads and acne, helps prevent psoriasis, and other skin problems such as atopic dermatitis.

For exfoliating try our Mystic Seeds Scrub made with rice bran powder, granulated honey, ground pumpkin seeds, ground sunflower seeds, ground oats, essential oils and vibrational essences for mature skin. A synergistic blend of ingredients containing high levels of powerful anti-oxidants that helps slow down the aging of skin, retain moisture, and revitalize complexion.

Or Almond Facial Scrub made with ground oats, ground almonds, kaolin clay, flaxseed meal, essential oils and vibrational essences for problem and sensitive skin. This scrub has anti-microbial, anti-viral, anti-inflammatory, anti-septic, and bactericidal properties. An exfoliating scrub or nourishing mask containing amino acids and trace elements that soothe inflamed and irritated skin leaving face soft and vital.

For a purification or detoxification try the Green Goddess of the Earth Facial Mask made with french green clay, kaolin clay, organic oats, roses, organic chamomile, organic calendula, organic lavender and essential oils. This mask is a plant based formula that firms skin, removes impurities, gently exfoliates and absorbs excess oil. It also encourages wound healing, soothes eczema is anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, and anti-septic. It is astringent, great for aging and wrinkled skin and is rich in trace elements to replenish skin cells, leaving skin feeling smooth and refined.

The ingredients I have written about have been used for hundreds of years and are safe, natural and effective. Do you know what the ingredients in your scrub are for? If not, send me a list and I will tell you. Send to marianne@giftsfromtheearth.com.

Daily Regiment Part 2 - Moisturize

2010-03-01T19:56:00.000-08:00

Each thing has to transform itself into something better, and to acquire a new destiny.

Paulo Coelho

Some of my favorite things to make are moisturizers, whether in gel or lotion form; it is pure alchemy. Tranforming water, other non-oil liquids, heated oils, beeswax, essential oils to create creamy and yummy moisturizers is magic!

Before I get into what is a good moisturizer, I need to answer the question of why moisturize. Moisturizers seal moisture into skin. Hydrating the skin is important because as we age, our skin loses its ability to maintain moisture and elasticity of our youth. Using a good moisturizer will help correct many environmental issues and even some self inflicted skin issues.

A good skin regiment including a good moisturizer can overcome poor skin function. For example, say you feel that you have oily skin. Why is it oily? Are the sebaceous glands overproducing oil? Do you have acne or is your skin scaly and dry? Maybe you are using a harsh cleanser and not a moisturizer or maybe your moisturizer is full of ingredients that you are allergic to or are not useful to your skin type.

Your moisturizer should be formulated for your skin type and your skin's needs. My goal is to educate you on the ingredients used in skin care. I will not touch on artificial chemical compounds as I do not use these. We follow ancient beauty recipes that have been time tested for thousands of years. Listed below are some of those ingredients, I will talk about other ingredients in future blogs.

Let’s get started dissecting the ingredients in a great moisturizer…

Water...a humctant, is the giver of life. Our body, particularly our skin, needs moisture from water.

Oils...there are numerous oils that have healing benefits for skin. I will concentrate on the oils that are used in the products we create at Gifts From the Earth. We research oils that offer the highest health benefits to the skin.

Grapeseed oil: A light weight, fast absorbing oil that is rich in vitamins, minerals and linoleic acid. Linoleic acid is an essential fatty acid that helps to maintain the health of cell membranes, improve nutrient use, and establish and control cellular metabolism.

Jojoba oil: Not actually an oil but a liquid wax and has absorption properties that are similar to our skins own sebum which makes it highly penetrating. It contains myristic acid which is anti-inflammatory and good for sensitive skin and is also an extremely efficient non-comedogenic moisture regulator, penetrating the skin to moisturize without blocking the pores.

Coconut oil: Coconut oil is an exceptional oil for dry, itchy or sensitive skin. It will not clog pores and it absorbs readily into the skin. It also delays wrinkles, and sagging of skin which normally become prominent with age. Coconut oil also helps in treating various skin problems including psoriasis, dermatitis, eczema and other skin infections. Coconut oil helps in preventing premature aging and degenerative diseases due to its antioxidant properties.

Extra Virgin Olive oil: EVOO is high in oleic acid and is therefore a good skin cell regenerator. Olive oil attracts external moisture to the skin and still allows normal functions of the skin to take place (sweating, shedding of dead skin and releasing sebum). EVOO is a very stable oil. In addition to being a natural, hypoallergenic way to moisturize skin, extra virgin olive oil has the added advantage of providing strong antioxidants, like Vitamins A and E that help repair and renew skin that has been damaged from overexposure to sun, air pollution, and other modern-day environmental hazards – like cigarette smoke and fast food. These antioxidants have the natural ability to stimulate cells and return skin to a firmer, smoother, and healthier state.

Evening Primrose Oil: Evening primrose is high in gamma-linolenic acid (an essential fatty acid) making it an exceptional skin nourishing oil. The human body does not produce essential fatty acids such as linoleic and linolenic acids. It, therefore, is important to get these nutrients through diet and topical application. Essential fatty acids inhibit bacterial growth and allow our systems to defend against infection and inflammation. Evening primrose oil is highly recommended for dry skin problems such as eczema and psoriasis.

Shea Butter: Shea Butter is naturally rich in Vitamins A, E, and F, as well as a number of other vitamins and minerals. Vitamins A and E help to soothe, hydrate, and balance the skin. They also provide skin collagen which assists with wrinkles and other signs of ageing. Vitamin F contains essential fatty acids, and helps protect and revitalize damaged skin and hair. Shea Butter is an intense moisturizer for dry skin, and is a wonderful product for revitalizing dull or dry skin on the body or scalp. It promotes skin renewal, increases the circulation, and accelerates wound healing.

Cocoa Butter: Cocoa Butter contains natural antioxidants. It is naturally rich in Vitamin E as well as a number of other vitamins and minerals. Vitamin E helps to soothe, hydrate, and balance the skin and also provides the skin collagen which assists with wrinkles and other signs of ageing. Cocoa Butter also contains cocoa mass polyphenol (CMP), a substance that inhibits the production of the immuno globulin IgE. IgE is known to aggravate symptoms of both dermatitis and asthma. For centuries pregnant women have used to Cocoa Butter formulations to prevent and treat stretch marks, but this pleasant-smelling substance is added to countless other topical preparations. Lotions and oils containing Cocoa Butter are often used in aromatherapy massage to promote relaxation and the feeling well-being. Research indicates that massaging the skin with Cocoa Butter may help relieve stress, boost the immune system, and even prevent cancer. This is because Cocoa Butter, like chocolate, contains a lot of CMP and there is some evidence that the CMP in Cocoa Butter may also help prevent heart disease and ease arthritic symptoms. Cocoa Butter is mainly used is a thickening agent and is a common ingredient in lipsticks, soaps and emollient creams. It is reported to be antiseptic and diuretic. Cocoa Butter is a superb moisturizer which slows down moisture loss. It is known for its hydrating effects, is gentle on the skin and has a pleasing aroma. Cocoa Butter is excellent when used on dry skin or on wrinkles.

Beeswax: Beeswax works well in cosmetic products because of the “wax esthers” that exist in both beeswax and human skin and it is these compounds which help to bind and emulsify ointments, lipsticks and lotions. As a natural hydrating ingredient that increases essential moisture in skin, it is commonly found in hand and body creams that help retain natural skin moisture and in the relief of itching from sensitive skin. Beeswax has an irritation potential of zero, and a comedogenicity rating of 0 - 2, which means that when formulated and used correctly in cosmetic formulations, beeswax will not cause a problem or clog the pores, but brings a host of very positive attributes, such as general healing and softening, as an antiseptic, and an emollient to cosmetic products. Even after processing, it still remains a biologically active product, retaining some anti-bacterial properties and also contains some vitamin A, which is necessary for normal cell development.

Essential oils: An essential oil is a liquid that is generally distilled (most frequently by steam or water) from the leaves, stems, flowers, bark, roots, or other elements of a plant. Essential oils, contrary to the use of the word "oil" are not really oily-feeling at all. Most essential oils are clear, but some oils such as patchouli, orange and lemongrass are amber or yellow in color.

Essential oils contain the true essence of the plant it was derived from. Essential oils are highly concentrated and a little goes a long way.

The chemical composition and aroma of essential oils can provide valuable psychological and physical therapeutic benefits. These benefits are usually achieved through methods including inhalation and application of the diluted oil to the skin.

Vibrational essences: Vibrational essences, can come in the form of flower essences which are vibrationally infused flower remedies made from living, organic, wild crafted flowers. Gemstone elixirs are infused with the unique vibrations of specially selected, therapeutic quality, spherical gemstones. Are in a base of activated healing waters gathered from sacred sites around the world. These miraculous essences carry what is known as an "energetic signature" or vibration of the flower or gemstone which can positively influence and balance the body and energetic field when you use them.

If your moisturizer is making your skin happy then it is probably not right for you. Let us customize the perfect lotion for you!

A Daily Regiment Part 1

2010-02-22T14:14:00.000-08:00

Over the past few months I have had many women ask me how I keep my skin looking so good, and my answer is always the same a daily regiment.

The Schedule

As a business owner, wife, mother and now home school teacher my life is very busy and full. I am up by 6am, or earlier when I need to take my husband to the airport to catch a flight, and I am usually not in bed until 10 or sometimes 11pm. I have 2 ½ days at home with my 11 year old son homeschooling him, then there are the music lessons, working out, theater classes, volunteering and that is only my son’s schedule. My other 2 ½ days and a lot of evenings are my work time and whatever else needs my attention at that moment. My daughter is 18 and drives so her demands on my time are not as much.

Unless I am doing a show, giving a presentation, or have an emergency order I always try to keep the weekends free of work so I can have time to hike, bike and play. I treasure these days because they are the times when magic happens and moments are carved into my memory.

So when does rest and caring for my skin fit into the equation? I work out 3 -4 days a week and walk my dog every day. I mention working out because sweating out the toxins help keeps my skin clear, keeps me physically fit so I can carry on long days, not to mention it boosts my mood. If I am feeling happy then I am not as likely to eat things that are not good for me, therefore keeping my digestive tract in harmony with the rest of the body. And we all know that if Mom is happy the rest of the family can follow! I relax about 10 – 20 minutes after lunch to help recharge my batteries.

At the end of the day after dinner and dishes are done, lunches made for tomorrow, laundry folded, emails answered I can finally get to bed. I have been trying to get ready for bed early so that by the time I am ready to turn in all I need to do is climb into the covers and set off to dream land. Get ready for bed means every day washing my face and moisturizing among other things like teeth brushing and flossing.

The Steps of a Daily Regiment

1. Exercise and eat healthy

Benefits:

Sweats out toxins

Keeps your muscles toned and your cardiovascular fit

Boosts your mood

Good nutrition gives your skin the nutrients it needs to look great and thrive

Ways to get there: walk, bike, yard work, house cleaning, leg lifts at the office, pack your lunch, stay away from carbonation, eat nuts and seeds

2. Take a break in the middle of the day and breathe

Benefits:

Recharge your batteries

Meditate – which actually makes a shift in your body at a cellular level not to mention it is great for your spirit

When we step away, we can return to things with a fresh perspective and new ideas

Ways to get there: lay down for 10 minutes, listen to relaxing music, massage, sit in car for a few minutes with eyes closed, take a few long deep breaths

3. Cleanse and moisturize your face every night

Benefits:

Removes dirt from pores

A combination of essential plant oils will work deep into the skin tissue

The essential plant oils will soothe your mind and spirit

Ways to get there: use a non-striping cleanser, keep water temperature mild and use a deep penetrating moisturizer with pure essential plant oils (no fragrance oils)

The Solutions

Cleansing: It is a myth that a cleanser needs to lather. If you use a lathering cleanser stop now as cleansing means "to be free of dirt." I know it goes against everything you were ever taught about cleansing, but I assure you, it is much more gentle for the delicate facial skin to use something that works in harmony with it's natural cycles.

We have created an amazing cleanser that whisks dirt and makeup away without stripping the oils from the skin. We call it Earthly Dreams Cleansing Oil. Don't be turned off by it's name. It is a combination of aloe vera, floral water, glycerin, grapeseed and olive oils that help attract dirt and make up so they can easily be wiped off with a moistened face cloth.

The special blend of pure essential oils works to penetrate the epidermis to help regulate seborrhea, acts as an anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory and a cell regenerator, improves circulation.

Click on the link above to get this gentle, yet effective cleanser and recieve a sample of one of our facial masks/scrubs. (When ordering write in the comments section which facial scrub you would like to try.)

Next week...Part 2 Moisturizers

Remember what I always say, "If you can't eat it, you shouldn't put it on your skin."

Eastern Philosophy Beauty Secrets

2009-11-30T08:57:00.000-08:00

I am a huge believer in eastern thought and medicine for maintaining great health and well being. Don't get me wrong, I also use western medicine too. Where would my son be without the miraculous help of Emmanuel Hospital in Portland, Oregon last year. They helped him to recover after being diagnosed with RND (reflex neurovascular dystrophy) he had a lot of physical therapy and massage. After his release from the hospital we worked with our Naturopath and Acupuncturist and he has now physically recovered.

His recovery helped me reaffirm my belief in the power of touch and eastern thought. And as Thanksgiving was just last week I wanted to share what I am thankful for when it comes to a beauty regimen and eastern beauty traditions. I have suggestions on how to have healthy glowing skin that is guided by this eastern philosophy.

Stimulate your Chi

There are particular points on your face that can stimulate your chi, relieve tension and bring a glow to your cheeks. Refer to chart on the right for these points, you will want to press each point with your fingers. Then take your fingertips and rythmically tap all over your face like raindrops; and to stimulate circulation, gently pound your cheeks and forehead with loose fists, finally end this regiment by placing your hands over your face to soothe. Take a few deep breaths. This is a great way to start and end your day!

Breathe

A couple of weeks ago I had the honor of hearing Jill Bolte Taylor (A Stroke of Insight) speak and throughout her presentation she would stop and have everyone "take a moment", we would stop and breathe a couple deep breaths. Your breath is the easiest mechanism for taking control of your present situation. A good deep inhale can take in six times as much oxygen as a shallow breath. Increased oxygen intake fights free radicals and nourishes your body, mind and spirit. Deep breathes help to calm us down, focus and reenergize.

Live in Harmony with the Seasons

Each season deals with rejuvenation in a specific context. Fall is the harvest season, a time for gathering up thoughts and ideas - a time to begin putting our lives in order. Autumn controls the pathways of the lungs and the colon. The Chinese book of wisdom, the Nei Ching, says that the large intestine is like the official who propogates the right way of living. Autumn is a good time for body cleansing, which can include dry brushing. Licorice root makes an excellent autumn tea, for it stimulates the colon and the lungs. Apple is great to eat as it cleanses the colon while squash and pumpkins will assist with keeping intestines well toned.

For the face, try our new Mystic Seed Scrub as it contains whole rice bran, pumpkin seeds and sunflower seeds to help soothe and soften skin.

Visit us at Gifts From the Earth.

Adverse Reactions to Synthetic Fragrances

2009-10-29T14:22:00.000-07:00

I have a confession to make. The only perfume I have ever worn since I was 15 years old is Oscar de la Renta. I have tried others but this one was perfect for me. When I was a senior in high school my boyfriend was a freshman in college and all the guys in his dorm knew when I was over...my essence lingered in the halls.

As a young girl I had a lot of allergies so my doctor put me on a perscription medicine to help my allergies. It worked for a while; it was only when I started wearing perfume that my allergies go worse. Almost immediately after I stopped wearing my beloved Oscar, my allergies cleared up. My immune system couldn't take the chemical cocktail that I was spraying on my body daily. Let me be clear, I still love Oscar and on occassion I still love to wear it. And yes, I still suffer sneezing and a plugged up nose when I wear it. I am not singling out this particular fragrance, they all have this effect.

Yesterday I dropped off something at a friend's house and our conversation meandered to the adverse effects of artificial fragrances. We were talking about allergies and how when I was younger I used to take an over the counter allergy medicine, I took it for 10 years! My naturopath helped my allergies and I have been relatively allergy free for the last 15 years. I now have a natural regiment for an allergy out break. I have learned to avoid synthetic fragrances in all aspects of my life.

Synthetic fragrances are everywhere; they are in soap, household cleansers, personal care products, candles, room scents, aerasol odor controlers, industrial cleaners, etc. I think the most used fragrance is in the laundry, the scented laundry detergent and the scented dryer sheets. When I stay over at someone's house that I know uses fragrance cleansers I bring my own towels so that I avoid the allergic reaction. If you want to scent your laundry place your favorite herb, like lavender in a muslim bag add a few drops of lavender essential oil and place in the dryer with your clothes. The clothes smell fresh and clean but not overpowering.

Read on to help you replace the synthetic fragrances in your life.

Replacing Your Artificial Fragrances
The world is a smelly place. There's the scent of our own bodies, of bread rising and spaghetti sauce cooking on the stove; the smell of rain and dirt, of exhaust and garbage; the aroma of evergreens on a woodsy path and low tide at the shore. Quietly, invisibly, these smells come into us, stirring up feelings and memories, alerting us to dangers or pleasures, and subtly altering our moods.

"Smell and emotion are intensely, intimately connected," says Brown University psychology professor Rachel Herz, Ph.D., author of The Scent of Desire, who notes that the two interact (along with memory) in an ancient region of the brain known as the limbic system.

But it's not just the natural aromas -- the crackling campfires, the blooming roses -- that influences. The "clean" smell of Tide or the "fresh" scent of faux-pine floor wax can elicit equally powerful feelings. Indeed, manufacturers add synthetic fragrance to everything from hair conditioner to clothing and even packaging in the hopes of soothing, exciting, or otherwise seducing us into picking products off store shelves. "In the past two decades," affirms Rebecca Sutton, Ph.D., an environmental chemist with the Environmental Working Group (EWG), a nonprofit research organization, "production and use of fragrance has increased dramatically worldwide."

Unfortunately, that's not necessarily a good thing. Experts' concerns about the proliferation of fragrances have to do with their potential effects on our health: With an estimated 3,000-plus chemicals, mostly synthetic, used in the manufacture of artificial fragrances, "repeated exposures over a lifetime are creating a toxic soup in our bodies," says Sutton. The extent to which these exposures harm us is not known for certain, she adds, "because there's little regulation, and these substances don't necessarily get tested."

We'll never go back to a time when all smells emanate from the natural world. But that doesn't mean you can't limit what has become a deluge of chemical scents. To that end, we'll show you how to be savvy about fragrances and transition to unscented or botanically scented products -- some of which might even benefit your well-being.

Unregulated, Untested, Unlabled
Skin allergies are the most common and most proven adverse reactions to synthetic fragrances. Researchers in dermatology have labeled fragrance among the top five allergens, causing topical reactions like contact dermatitis.

But the health effects of synthetic fragrance may be more than skin deep. When we breathe in an odor, the lungs and the skin take in the molecules carrying the scent. From these two major absorption pathways, those molecules can enter the bloodstream and find their way to other parts of the body, where they may pose harm. "Studies are showing that some key ingredients in fragrance mixes have harmful effects -- on lab animals, and also on humans," says Sutton. Some synthetic fragrance ingredients may exacerbate asthma, for instance, while others can cause a range of problems in the immune, reproductive, and central nervous systems.

Synthetic musks, for instance -- widely used in perfumes, deodorants, and detergents -- have been linked to cancer. They can bioaccumulate, or store themselves in the body, and have been found in breast milk, which means that nursing infants ingest them. Research indicates that these musks don't biodegrade; they've been found polluting watersheds and the plants and animals that live there. Another worrisome class of chemicals, phthalates, are often used in fragrance because they allow the smell to last longer. They have been linked to changes in the reproductive and endocrine systems as well as in the liver, kidneys, and adrenal glands.

To make matters worse, these ingredients don't have to be listed on labels. Household products like laundry detergent and glass cleaner aren't required to list ingredients at all. And while the law requires cosmetic and other personal-care companies to list chemical ingredients on their products, a loophole allows them to use the catch-all term "fragrance" without having to describe what's in it. "The word ��fragrance' includes chemicals that haven't been tested for safety," explains Sutton. "We are basically conducting a big experiment on ourselves."

The FDA has banned only a handful of ingredients in personal-care products -- none of them related to scent. The fragrance industry essentially regulates itself, deciding which chemicals it considers hazardous. Some manufacturers have voluntarily stopped using phthalates, for instance, but many others continue to use them; in 2002 the EWG tested 72 personal-care products and found phthalates in 75 percent. Certain companies have dropped some synthetic musks, but still widely use others. Without adequate federal regulation, says Sutton, "we're leaving our health in the hands of the manufacturers."

Scent Makeover 101
To put your health back into your own hands, at least in regard to fragrance, you have two options. The first is to use fragrance-free products -- the best choice if you have chemical sensitivity, allergies, or a tendency to react to natural plant fragrances. Note, however, that marketing claims such as "unscented" and "fragrance-free" aren't bound by law to hold true, explains Sutton. (She recently turned over a box of so-called "unscented" baby wipes only to find "fragrance" listed in fine print.) For household products, stick with brands that list ingredients (they're not required by law to do so). "Many manufacturers of green housekeeping products disclose all the ingredients they use," says Sutton, "because they need to show they're not using chemicals that could harm us."

The second option is to choose home and beauty products scented the old-fashioned way: with flowers and leaves, stems, and other plant parts. Essential oils (EOs), the potent, super-concentrated compounds derived from distilling botanicals, have been used for centuries to scent the body and the home, while subtly altering our emotional and physical state. "Just inhaling the scent of lavender or rose can de-stress you," offers clinical aromatherapist Mindy Green, coauthor of Aromatherapy: A Complete Guide to the Healing Art. "And de-stressing, as we know, has health benefits including improved immune and circulatory systems."

The EWG doesn't let plant fragrances off the hook in terms of safety, asserting that they, too, should be tested before being used in products. But many have a long history of safe use, and they aren't composed of the nefarious chemicals so abundant in artificial fragrances. (For allergy reasons, always patch-test before use; pregnant or nursing women and anyone with an illness should consult a medical and/or aromatherapy professional before using these potent scents.)

To understand how plant-derived scents may benefit our mental and physical health, we return to the limbic region of the brain. Here, scents interact with the neuroendocrine system, triggering psychological and physiological responses. "Just through smelling an essential oil, you can feel uplifted, down, or otherwise have your mood change," says medical herbalist Peter Holmes. Smells also get mixed up with memories and emotions, linking past and present. "If a scent reminds us of a happy memory, we instantly relax," explains Green.

But it's not simply a matter of personal association. Aromatherapists have identified hundreds of plant scents that have tendencies to relax, uplift, or energize most people, and recent scientific studies bear this out. Sandalwood, for instance, traditionally used in the building of temples in India and in rituals in other Eastern religions, is thought to induce a meditative state; animal research confirms that its chemical properties can indeed relax and sedate the central nervous system. Another study found that inhaling the scent of rose essential oil helped induce lower adrenaline concentrations in the bloodstream.

For a growing number of people, plant-derived aromas provide a safe and seductive way to sidestep the health pitfalls of synthetic fragrance. But whether you seek out natural scents or try to avoid added scent altogether (even the plant-based variety), you'll be doing your health a big favor -- and reawakening your senses to the aromas enlivening the natural world.

Contributor Frances Lefkowitz is at work on a memoir, How to Have Not. She lives in northern California.

From: body + soul (March 2008)

Healing Hands for Everyday

2009-10-22T09:09:00.000-07:00

Rough hands are a dead give away of age. Did you know that the skin on the back of your hands is as delicate as the skin on your face? And yet at times we do not always treat our hands very well; we garden, we wash dishes and we scrub floors, some of us sculpt and paint while others are musicians. Sometimes we wear gloves to protect our hands and sometimes we do not.

The hands are used everyday for healing; whether it is the nurse taking your vitals, the chiropractor making corrective adjustments, the massage therapist working out the stress in your muscles or the Reiki practioner doing energy work on your body, our hands are energy centers. Sense your own energy center by lightly rubbing your hands together and then concentrate on feeling the energy in your hands and fingers.

Take a few moments to think of how you use your hands daily for healing; brushing your childs hair, caressing a loved one, preparing your family meals, cleansing your skin, sewing, knitting, quilting, felting, sculpting, painting, typing, the list goes on. Have you ever had someone tell you that your hands are really rough and scratchy? It can be hard to be the recipient of a touch of someone with rough hands.

To keep hands smooth use products with rich and emollient ingredients such as cocoa butter, shea butter, avocado oil, olive oil, vitamin e. Make sure that products are alcohol free. Listed below are a few of the healing properties of these emollient ingredients.

Cocoa Butter provides a protective layer that holds moisture to the skin, making it a soothing emollient to soften skin. Shea Butter is high in anti-oxidants and skin nourishing properties, this butter also provides natural protection from harmful UV rays. Avocado Oil has a very high content of vitamin a and vitamin e, potassium, rich in proteins and fatty acids. Great nourishing properties needed to treat dry, dehydrated or damaged skin. This oil is known to regenerate cells and soften body tissue. Olive Oil attracts external moisture while holding the moisture close to the skin to prevent loss of internal moisture. Olive oil does not block the natural functions of the skin. Vitamin E is an oil soluble and deep moisturizing vitamin with excellent anti-oxidant properties.

To experience your own hand rejuvenation click on the link below to try our wonderful Rough Skin Cream.

Rough Skin Cream

Oils of the gods to protect

2009-10-16T15:29:00.000-07:00

Essential oils have been used for thousands of years; ancient peoples knew of their healing properties. These aromatics were some of the most prized possessions in the ancient world. The Egyptians were the first to recognize the theraputic properties of many oils. They created personal fragrances, used them in ritualistic ceremonies, and had herbal prescriptions and remedies documented. Did you know that when Tutankhamen's tomb was opened in 1922 they found 350 liters of plant oils, perfectly preserved in alabaster jars with plant wax seals? These oils were equivalent to gold and silver in today's world.
The Romans were fond of soaking in oil scented baths. It was the ancient Arabians who developed and refined the distillation process of creating essential oils. In the 12th century during the plaque in Europe a band of thieves was caught robbing the dead and never got infected. At trial these thieves disclosed that they were perfurmers and spice traders and had rubbed themselves with aromatics (cinnamon, clove and oregano), which helped to protect them.

With the all the talk of colds and flus this time of year, creating a room spray will help to keep you well. When essential oils are sprayed in the air, certain compounds in the oils combine with oxygen to increase the oil's antiseptic properties. A combination of clove, lemon, cinnamon and eucalyptus is a very effective anti-bacterial.

I also like creating a throat spray of 1/4 cup water, 1/4 cup fresh (strained) lemon juice, 15 drops of lemon essential oil and 5 drops peppermint oil. Place in a spray bottle, shake well and gently spray into your throat.

Do you want to know more about essential oils and natural skin care and health remedies? Ask me your question...I would love to answer!

Stay well!

Feeling age

2009-10-06T09:48:00.000-07:00

Have you ever woke up in the morning and looked in the mirror and didn't like what you saw? Well I did this morning. I looked old and felt ugly. As the morning went on I realized that I haven't been drinking enough water.

Look younger - drinking water hydrates your skin

When the skin is properly hydrated, it looks plump and more radiant. Water will keep the toxins flushed out and help you to cool off through perspiration. Muscles need to have enough water to make them look full too. Deprive yourself of water and you’ll see the difference in the mirror.

Combat ailments by drinking more water

In many cases, fatigue, headaches and back pain may be caused by dehydration. If you suffer from an afternoon nod off, try drinking more water at lunch. If you or your children complain of frequent headaches, the amount of water you’re drinking could be responsible. And, muscle spasms are also caused by not being adequately hydrated.

Excerpt from www.thedietchannel.com. Top 4 Benefits Of Drinking Water By Michele Silence, MA

As we age we tend to ignore our bodies and therefore do not sense our thirst as much. A good plan is to start with drinking a glass of water every hour or an ounce of water for half our body weight. If you weight 150 lbs you would want to drink 75 ounces of water a day, that is only 10 - 8 oz glasses. Reach for the water instead of the coffee or soda, your body will thank you for it!