Spring is a traditional time for all kinds of cleaning and cleansing. Spring house cleaning is a common occurrence for most of us to refresh our space after the dark and cold winter months. If we can do this for our house, why not do it for our bodies?
It’s no secret I’m a huge advocate of essential oils and use them for their soothing and therapeutic benefits. Each one has its own amazing properties when used individually but can be even more powerful when used in combination with other oils.
Photo by Thought Catalog on Unsplash
So you’ve heard the big news that as of yesterday, October 17, 2018, Canada has legalized recreational cannabis, becoming the second country to do so (apparently Uruguay was the first.) But did you know that medical cannabis has been legal in Canada since 2001?
Photographic image of an original antique illustration by Sowerby published in 1860s in The English Botany.
You may only know of nettles or stinging nettles as a burden–generally known to gardeners as an annoying weed–but this wonder herb actually has amazing health benefits.
Looking to soak up some rays now that summer is coming around? Or maybe you’re about to embark on that much-deserved vacation in a sunny location.
It can be tempting to slather on cheaply made SPF lotions that claim the ultimate protection, but like all things we put into and onto our bodies, they are inevitably absorbed into our system, soaking up more unnecessary chemicals.
Mainstream branded sunscreens may actually do more harm than good as some health professionals say the chemicals in them can cause hormone imbalance, disrupt the male reproductive system and have even been linked to some cancers. The doctor in this Huffington Post article breaks down the ingredients in everyday sunscreens, explaining why they’re harmful, and suggests natural alternatives for skin protection. Natural sunscreens are not absorbed by the skin, but provide a protective layer, blocking out the UV-A and UV-B rays. Look out for natural mineral sunscreens that contain ingredients such as zinc oxide and titanium dioxide.
Contrary to what we’re told, these products are not the only way to protect your skin before and after sun exposure.
Create your own
The following oil can be worn as a sunscreen in the day but is also very effective in relieving the drying conditions of sunburn, when exposed during more invigorating types of weather and activities, such as sailing, hiking or skiing.
It is a rather thick oil so be sure to blend the ingredients well.
Après ski, sun, sail and hike oil
After a dose of sunbathing, its good use an oil that contains essential oils – it will not only prolong your tan but it will nourish your skin. Apply all over the body after showering or bathing.
After Sun Oil
*Sesame Oil is a natural sun filter and by using it in warm evening baths you will be protecting your skin from the early evening sun and cooling yourself down.
After Sun Bath
Dilute the essential oils in the Jojoba Oil and add it all to the bath. While there, gently massage oil over the areas that have been exposed to the sun.
Organic vs certified organic: what’s the difference? As part of #OrganicWeek from September 17 – 25, 2016, we’re helping break down why it’s best to choose organic and what the official title represents.
Root
Adaptogen, alterative aphrodisiac, stimulant, stomachic
Calcium, iron, magnesium, manganese, niacin, phosphorus, potassium, riboflavin, silicon, sodium, sulfur, thiamine, tin, vitamins A, B12 & E
Root, flowers and leaves
Adaptogen, alterative, antibiotic, neoplastic, antiseptic, antiviral, blood purifier, carminative, demulcent, digestive, sialagogue, stimulant, vulnerary
Calcium, iodine, iron, potassium, sulfur, vitamins A, C and E
Seeds
Anorectic, antacid, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antispasmodic, carminative, diuretic, estrogenic, expectorant, galactagogue, sedative (children), stimulant
Leaves and flowers
Alterative, analgesic, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, aromatic, bitter, carminative, emmenagogue, febrifuge, nervine, parasiticide, purgative (mild), stimulant, vasodilator
