Category Archives: Skin and Body

Successful Self-Dentistry

March 9, 2012

 

I recently received a very special customer review of the revolutionary book on natural oral care, Successful Self-Dentistry by Nadine Artemis of Living Libations. It’s such an inspiring story about what’s possible with the right natural oral care products and protocol, so I decided to share it with you this week. It comes from someone with a long history of dental problems, here’s what he had to say:

 ”I’m amazed by the changes I saw in my overall oral health after reading Successful Self-Dentistry, and following Nadine Artemis’ recommended oral care regimen. I am a fairly atypical case when it comes to dental health. First, I have a deviated septum from a childhood accident that leaves me breathing through my mouth most of the night. Second, I was volunteered for a clinical trial of some experimental dental products as soon as I had all of my adult teeth that ended up leaving me with very porous enamel. I have many, many fillings, and will probably have to have many of my teeth replaced in my lifetime. Sugar-free diets, highly meticulous and careful dental care regimens, and thousands of dollars in dental work have never done much to help.
 The picture that had been instilled in me by the world of standard dental care was this: My teeth are rapidly decaying, and an extremely careful dental hygiene regimen with lots of fluoridated toothpaste and mouthwash combined with lots of dental visits will just barely keep it at bay. Since stopping any of this would mean quickly losing all of my teeth, I diligently kept at it – even though my experience of using standard fluoridated dental care products was really unpleasant.
 Standard toothpaste burned the inside of my mouth really badly. My teeth were extremely sensitive to heat, cold, and the tiniest amounts of sugar. Brushing hurt my gums. Despite good flossing habits, my gums still bled, often just from brushing. And the worst part was waking up in the morning. My mouth would be coated in about an eighth of an inch of thick, dry saliva and bacteria. My breath would be less than pleasant and my nose would be completely clogged. There were even a couple mornings where the thick film I mentioned would dry my teeth shut, and I would have to pour water in my mouth to dissolve it so I could open it. I didn’t complain because I thought there was no better way. This, to me, was simply the cards I had been dealt in the dental department, and I decided long ago that I had to learn to live with it.
 Then someone recommended Successful Self-Dentistry to me.  .  .
And here’s the amazing part: all of those symptoms went away in the first week. I was completely shocked. I woke up after just two days of following Nadine’s regimen able to breathe through my nose (as well as I can, anyway), with no film in my mouth or on my teeth. Brushing my teeth became pleasant because doing so didn’t burn the inside of my mouth.
Then, over the next month, my teeth and gums started to become less sensitive. Now, heat and cold don’t bother me unless they’re extreme and sweet foods don’t cause any pain. It’s amazing!
 So here’s the dental hygiene regimen I started following and now use twice a day:
 First, two or three rinses with salt water.
 Next, I use a tongue cleaner. I actually didn’t know this existed before reading Nadine’s book, and now I can’t imagine not using it. The feeling of a clean tongue is just too wonderful. I also use this first thing in the morning and after any rich meal that lingers around.
 Then, a good, thorough, gentle flossing with a mild and petrochemical-free floss.
 After that, I gently brush my gums with my ionic toothbrush and a drop of Yogi Tooth Serum, starting at the top of the gums and slowly going down and over my teeth.
 Then, I polish the enamel of my teeth with a mechanical toothbrush while being sure not to use it on my gums.
 Finally, I go along my gumline carefully with a rubber-tipped gum sulcus and rinse once more with salt water.
 And that’s it! Although, I have to say that the best thing I did out of all of this was read Nadine Artemis’ book, Successful Self-Dentistry. For anyone who has dealt with dental problems, it’s a real gift finding out that you might not have to anymore.”
 
 

 

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DIY Organic Skincare: Seaweed Clay Antioxidant Face Mask

February 24, 2012

Homemade Beauty

Here’s a quick and easy recipe to get glowing skin . This mask is Detoxifying, Healing and Rejuvenating! And you can make it yourself at home.


Ingredients

2 teaspoons Kelp Powder

2 teaspoons Dulse Powder

2 teaspoons Green Clay, Rose Clay or any fine facial clay. I used Rhassoul Clay.

1 teaspoon Zeolite Clay

1 teaspoon Truly Natural Vitamin C Powder

1 tablespoon Raw Organic Honey (Active Healing Honey, if possible)

(If you prefer not to use honey, simply add more water or Aloe.)

1 Tablespoon Aloe Juice (or Spring Water)

1/4 cup Spring Water

 

 

Instructions

Combine all ingredients in a bowl until they form a paste. Apply to face and any areas where firming and detoxification is desired.

 

 

Benefits

Both Seaweed and Clay draw toxins out of the skin. Clay also helps to clear and tighten pores. Seaweed nourishes skin with minerals and antioxidants, and it can also help areas of congestion, like cellulite. Vitamin C is a potent antioxidant, stimulates collagen production, repairs damaged skin, and promotes cellular renewal. Raw honey is a nutrient rich antioxidant that’s antibacterial, antifungal, and highly moisturizing. It also contains enzymes which help to heal skin.

 

Also posted in Acne, Beauty, Do It Yourself Beauty, Skin Care Recipes, Skin Conditions – 0 Comments

Organic Henna from Morrocco Method

February 17, 2012

This week, I have a very special article to share with you. As you may know from reading my blog, Morrocco Method Hair Care products are my most favorite hair products in the world! If you’re looking for 100% natural hair color, their Henna is incredible! I use it myself and the results are gorgeous – better hair quality and beautiful color. Here’s an article that the Founder and CEO of Morrocco Method has written exclusively for you, my readers, about their magnificent Morrocco Method Henna:

Have you ever sat and thought about chemicals? They are everywhere, air, water, food, make up, hygiene products and more. You can’t change everything but you can limit what goes in or is applied to the body. I started first with hair color.

Henna is for everyone. Whether you are trying to cover pesky grey hair or simply experimenting with color, this product is easy and safe to use. Before you decide to color with any products, Morrocco Method would like to take a moment to celebrate those who bear a crowning glory of gray, silver, or white hair. A lifetime of experience confers Elderhood, wisdom, an achievement of noble and respected status in the “tribe” of humanity! That being said, if you do continue to dye your hair we encourage the use of our natural, non-toxic, environmentally friendly Morrocco Method Henna.

Natural hair dyes are good for your health and good for the planet. Henna makes your hair shiny, healthy, and strong. The simultaneous benefits of Henna are that it will condition and color the hair at the same time. As a conditioner, henna strengthens the hair, conditions the scalp, helps to detangle and make hair more manageable, and provides a natural and healthy sheen and shine to hair. In addition, it is anti-fungal and thus reduces the occurrence of dandruff and eliminates head lice.

When buying henna, remember don’t just go to the store and pick up a box of henna, you do not know how long it has been on the shelf. The fresher the henna the brighter and richer the color will be once applied to the hair. Lower quality hennas often contain metallic salts that can damage your hair.

Henna shades will vary from company to company and results will differ on each individual. I suggest one shade lighter then you natural hair color when using MM henna. This is because henna is meant to coat the hair as opposed to penetrating the hair with chemical dyes. You can always go darker with your hair later but you cannot go lighter. If you want to deepen your color after applying, simply do another henna treatment after 72 hours and the darker shade will adhere to the coating of the previous one.

For those of you interested in making the switch, as well as those of you who already use henna, here are some ideas and tips when applying your henna. When first using henna you should follow the directions precisely. After you’ve gained some experience, you can start making your own “henna mix”. Some users add their own natural ingredients to their mix. Some of the more common additions that have been reported are cinnamon, allspice, nutmeg, and ginger. These help with the “alfalfa” smell that henna has during the dye process. Finally, when applying always remember that henna will stain your skin. Before applying your henna put something like Unpetroleum around the edges of your hairline, and wear gloves.

Beware of imposters. With the natural movement towards the beauty industry including hair care, there has been an increase in the use of henna for hair and natural makeup’s. This increase in interest by consumers for a safe and natural alternative to harsh chemicals for hair coloring and beauty supplies, has lead both men and women to seek out henna or natural hair dyes and other natural products.

It is important to seek 100% henna. If you do not, you can get into henna compounds or PPD. Using henna or deciding to switch to henna is a commitment. A commitment to the process and the time it takes and it is messy. But very rewarding it provides a natural alternative to chemicals. With any commitment search out the topic, educate yourself and read reviews on companies that sale henna and know what you’re getting yourself into once you have collected this information then choose henna that is right for you.

-Good Health is Our Wealth

Anthony Morrocco
Morrocco Method Int’l
Founder/CEO

Also posted in Beauty, Hair, Henna, Natural Hair Color – 0 Comments

Amazing Organic Skincare Ingredients That You May Not Know About, pt. 3

February 10, 2012

Organic Ingredients for Healing

Over the past two weeks, I’ve been sharing some of my favorite organic skincare ingredients. So far we’ve covered ingredients that are food for your skin, restoring skin pigment, protecting against UV damage, and even aiding in DNA repair. We’ve also covered a few really wonderful essential oils and hydrosols. This week we’re moving into new territory and talking about ingredients that are helpful for people who have trouble with specific skin conditions like eczema, herpes and cold sores, psoriasis, and contact dermatitis. There’s no need to use harsh chemicals if you suffer from any of these. There are a lot of gentler ways to help your skin heal and restore it to its naturally healthy state.

 

Soothing and Pacifying Roots, Leaves, Seeds, and Oils

Magic Healing Balm is a soothing creme that promotes healthy skin by providing deep hydration, helping regenerate skin cells, and stopping the growth of bacteria that are at cause for skin infections.

 

 

 

What makes my skin love it so much?

It’s made with some of the most powerfully anti-viral and deeply moisturizing ingredients, including chaparral leaf, burdock root, lemon balm, sarsaparilla root, fenugreek seed, pomegranate seed oil, and immortele essential oil.

 

How do they work?

  • Chaparral Leaf is believed to have originated in Argentina before beginning to grow wildly in the US, where it has been used by native americans for thousands of years. It contains various amino acids, estrogen-like lignans, and zinc and has some truly remarkable healing effects when applied to skin directly.
  • Burdock Root is rich in antioxidants and acts as a powerful anti-inflammatory agent. Traditionally, it has been used to treat acne, eczema, psoriasis, and various skin infections.
  • Lemon Balm, despite its name, is actually member of the mint family, named for its lemon-scent. It has been shown to quickly relieve itching and aide in the healing of lesions and sores caused by the herpes virus, as well as provide benefit when applied to many other viral skin infections.
  • Sarsaparilla Root was thought historically to be a cure for all kinds of maladies, but for the past hundred years has been largely disregarded. Recently, it is coming back into the spotlight because some of it special properties, like saponins, as a possible treatment for a viral infections, most notably herpes, as well as other skin conditions.
  • Fenugreek Seed is traditionally used as a spice, but contains a wide variety of biologically active constituents that have been shown to possibly help blood sugar regulation in diabetics and even increase breast milk production in lactating mothers. Most interestingly, however, is that fenugreek seed has been used for many years to treat acne, boils, and eczema.
  • Pomegranate Seed Oil is an extremely rich and luxurious oil. It penetrates deep into the epidermis of the skin. It contains potent antioxidants – fighting free radicals, and promoting cell regeneration. It helps to reverse skin damage. It is anti-aging,  highly moisturizing, and nourishing to skin. It is also beneficial for skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis. Pomegranate Seed Oil is bountiful in flavonoids and punicic acid, both of which have amazing skin and health benefits. Punicic acid, is metabolically similar to conjugated linolenic acids (CLAs), making it helpful for the metabolic system, so this precious beauty oil is also wonderful for internal use.
  • Helichrysum (Immortele) Essential Oil has been praised for quite some time for its ability to simulate the renewal of skin cells. In addition to it’s ability to diminish scars, fine lines, and wrinkles, it has excellent anti-inflammatory properties.
Also posted in Beauty, Facial Oils, Healing, Ingredient Spotlight, New Product Spotlight, Skin Conditions – 0 Comments

Amazing Organic Skincare Ingredients That You May Not Know About, pt. 2

February 3, 2012


Organic Ingredients for Facial Care

Last week, I shared some amazing organic skincare ingredients that I use in my own Living Earth Beauty line. I’ve talked about such magical things as mucuna, mangosteen, and chaga, and now I’d like to share with you some of the balancing ingredients that are especially beneficial for use in facial toning and cleansing.

 

 

 

Anti-Inflammatory & Anti-Microbial Essential Oils

 

Citrus sunrise doubles as an organic facial toner and cleanser and is not only generally uplifting, invigorating, and a pleasure to use, but it has anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, and anti-microbial properties that make it a gentle skin cleanser and exfoliant is great for all skin types and also helps with acne and oily skin while promoting a healthy skin pH.

 

 

What makes my skin love it so much?

Citrus sunrise is made with several hydrosols and essential oils, including, calendula hyrdrosol, lemon verbana, and a variety of citrus oils (mandarin, lemon, lime peel, and blood orange).

 

 

How do they work?

  • Calendula is a truly versatile herb that can be used beneficially for just about anything skin related. It’s useful for rashes, hotspots, scratches, abrasions, sunburns, scars, and many skin disorders. Calendula hydrosol makes a great all around skin tonic and it has a refreshing, mildly sweet floral scent.
  • Lemon verbena has a strong antioxidant capacity, making it revitalizing for all skin types and a great aid for cellular regeneration. Not only that, it’s a mild astringent, a gentle skin cleanser, and is lightly stimulating and uplifting.
  • Mandarin essential oil, aside from having an invigorating scent, is a natural antiseptic that gently cleanses the skin and clears away harmful bacteria while helping balance oily skin and heal acne.
  • Lemon essential oil is anti-bacterial, anti-microbial, anti-fungal, and anti-inflammatory, making it an excellent natural aid for cleansing and returning skin to its healthy balanced state.
  • Lime peel essential oil has similar properties that make it an excellent complement to lemon essential oil. In addition, it can be slightly more helpful with acne and it adds a pleasantly tart scent to anything it’s used in.
  • Blood orange essential oil is said to be the most antidepressant of all of the essential oils. Similar to the other citrus oils, it has anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties.

 

Rejuvenating and Cleansing Hydrosols

 

Moonlight Mist is the natural evening compliment to Citrus Sunrise. While Citrus Sunrise is invigorating and rejuvenating while deeply and gently cleansing skin, Moonlight Mist is soothing, calming, and relaxing – perfect for clearing away the day’s debris and sinking into a sweet, lovely evening before bed.

 

 

Why does my skin love it so much?

Moonlight Mist is made with several special ingredients, including, rose hydrosol, tulsi (holy basil) hydrosol, rose geranium essential oil, and chamomile essential oil. Deeply hydrating and soothing, these leave skin feeling refreshed and soft.

 

 

 

How do they work?

  • Rose hydrosol is predominantly a gentle cooling and anti-inflammatory agent, and has possibly been used for thousands of years for just that purpose. However, it has been found more recently to also have anti-bacterial properties which help regulate skin oil production.
  • Tulsi (holy basil) hydrosol is soothing and calming, and has excellent anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties. It is a highly medicinal herb and is considered a sacred plant.
  • Rose geranium hydrosol has been used to assist wound healing for centuries. It has analgesic, antibacterial, antiseptic, astringent, and anti-inflammatory properties that make it excellent for gently cleansing skin, helping with acne, and balancing skin pH.
  • Chamomile essential oil, similar to those above, has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. It is also is antispasmodic and analgesic. It is extremely healing and wonderful for treating skin conditions. It has a gently sweet, apple-like aroma. Chamomile has been used for centuries in aromatherapy and is known as an anti-depressant and an herb of calming.
Also posted in Beauty, Ingredient Spotlight, New Product Spotlight – 1 Comment

Amazing Organic Skincare Ingredients That You May Not Know About

January 27, 2012

Raw, Healing, & Organic

 

I’m always seeking out the most amazing and potent plants, herbs, and fruits both for internal healing and skin rejuvenation. My skincare line is abundantly full of these magical ingredients, perfect for creating the most beautiful skin ever. Each of these treasures deserves it’s own book, but here’s a quick taste of just how amazing some of these ingredients are.

 

 

Raw and Edible Ingredients

 

Supernatural Facial Serum is designed to be applied as skin food, prior to moisturizing with Bee Beauty. It helps to firm skin, improve skin texture and tone, and stimulate collagen renewal. It also helps create an even skin tone, restoring your skin’s natural pigment, as well as, repair and protecting against UV damage, and even aiding DNA repair.  It is also nice for soothing eczema and other skin conditions.

What makes my skin love it so much?

First of all, Supernatural is a completely raw, vegan, and organic skincare product. But what really sets it apart is a divine mixture of several highly potent ingredients, including: goji berry, rhodiola root, amla berry, mucuna pruriens, camu camu berry, noni, chaga mushroom, and mangosteen.

How do they work?

  • Goji berries have very high levels of antioxidants as they contain a whole host of healthy vitamins, minerals, micronutrients, and phytochemicals. Applying all of this to your skin will support its revitalization, evening out its texture and leaving it feeling taut and smooth.
  • Rhodiola is not only another excellent source of antioxidants, but it increases collagen synthesis and skin cell proliferation by increasing hydroxyproline and hexosamine levels. It has UV-protection, regenerative, anti-stress, and anti-fatigue properties.
  • Amla has cooling astringent properties and is used in ayurvedic medicine as a treatment all sorts of skin disorders. Deeply cleansing, it helps clear acne and tones the skin.
  • Mucuna pruriens leaves and seeds have long been used in ayurvedic medicine. As an organic skincare ingredient, it burns fat from the fat cells, decreases cellulite and wrinkles, and can even improve cholesterol levels and strengthen the immune system.
  • Camu camu is the one of most potent antioxidant Vitamin C fruits in the world with six times more antioxidant capacity than acai berries. This makes it a potent anti-aging superfruit and an excellent ingredient to assist in collagen production.
  • Noni contains high amounts of powerful antioxidants and aids the body in the production of xeronine by providing the necessary building blocks for it. Xeronine is very effective at repairing damaged cells, making noni a powerful source of anti-aging properties.
  • Chaga is very rich in melanin, which nourishes your skin cells, restores their natural pigment, and even aids in DNA repair. In some select clinical trials in the medical community, treatment with chaga extract has been shown to greatly reduce psoriasis.
  • Mangosteen is being found more and more to be an effective treatment for acne, eczema, psoriasis, and a number of other skin disorders. Thanks to the presence of tannic acid in the rind of the mangosteen fruit (technically called a “pericarp”), it acts as an excellent natural astringent. In the right amounts, it gently cleanses and exfoliates while clearing away harmful bacteria. Mangosteen fruit also contains organic compounds called xanthonoids, which are currently being examined for their potential disease ameliorating effects.

 

Also posted in Beauty, Facial Oils, Ingredient Spotlight – 4 Comments

The Definitive Guide to Men’s Organic Skincare & Haircare

November 2, 2011

Men love organic skincare products too. I frequently get emails from men wondering what they can use on their face, hair, and body – often they want to know which of our products have a neutral or a masculine-oriented scent.

Here’s a comprehensive list of the products I recommend. And of course, they are all raw, vegan, and organic. Not only that, but my husband Jed uses and loves these!

 

Organic Soap for Men

Black Pepper Clementine Organic Soap with Activated Bamboo Charcoal

First, we have a whole host of organic bar soaps on the site, which you can find here.

All of the soaps we carry are gently scented and appealing to men’s senses. Choose your favorite. The special Detox bar with activated charcoal is particularly great for men. It has a very light scent, with subtle wafts of black pepper and clementine. The activated charcoal in the bar helps eliminate toxins, clear pores, and remove impurities. It has been used in Asia for centuries and it works great on acne and oily skin.

The soap itself is made with Certified Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Certified Organic Coconut Oil, and Certified Organic Shea Butter. The soap is creamy and will leave your skin feeling soft.

 

Body Wash

Coconut Cream Shower Gele

Next up is our Coconut Cream Shower Gel from ISUN.

This is a creamy, soothing, moisturizing blend of coconut oil and aloe vera gel with a masculine alpine scent. Not only that, it’s perfectly pH balanced for skin, which encourages and maintains your skin’s natural hydration and promotes a bacteria-free state.

 

Shampoo


Seabuckthorn Shampoo & Body Wash

What you’ll probably notice first about this shampoo and body wash, aside from the gentle herbal and citrus scent, is that it isn’t diluted like most other shampoos and that a little bit will go a long way. The all organic ingredients list includes herbal infusions in jojoba of seabuckthorn, calendula, red clover, oats, coltsfoot, horsetail, comfrey, nettles, chamomile, seaweed; yucca and coco-protein to saponify; orange wax; supercritical extracts of sea buckthorn & rosemary; and finally, essential oils of grapefruit, peppermint vetiver & lime.

A nickel-sized amount applied to a body sponge will be enough for your whole body. About the same amount should take care of your hair.

 

Conditioner

Shine On Hair Conditioner

After the invigorating experience of using seabuckthorn shampoo, the next best step to take is apply some Shine On Hair Conditioner. I recommend combing it through your hair when it’s wet, followed by rinsing. You can also apply a small amount to the tips of your hair when dry to give it some extra character. Those with curly hair should apply it between washings. This conditioner contains all natural and organic rosewater, jojoba herbal infusions of chickweed, marshmallow root, slippery elm, alfalfa, seaweed, aloe vera, tamanu oil, apple cider vinegar, rose wax, rosemary and sage antioxidant extracts, essential oils of lime & lavender.

 

Organic Treatments for Hair Loss

 

 

Morrocco Method Hair Care

Morrocco Method Raw and Vegan Hair Care products will help you have thick, healthy, luxurious hair and a clear, nourished scalp. These are simply the most Pure, Natural, Organic, Raw, Vegan, Green, Fair Trade Hair Products for all hair types. The Morrocco Method line includes Conditioners, Shampoos, Natural Color, and Hair Treatments that Address Hair Thinning and Hair Loss, Dandruff, Dry Hair and Scalp, Hair Regrowth and Itchy and Inflamed Scalp. If you’d like wonderful hair and a healthier scalp, give these revolutionary products a try! They have an earthy, neutral scent and are suited for the whole family, even pets.

Face Cleanser

Best Skin Ever – Seabuckthorn

After showering, meet your skin’s best friend. Best Skin Ever cleanses, exfoliates, moistens, and tones the skin from head to toe. This one in particular is best for cleansing the face. Simply, moisten a cloth with warm water, add a few squirts or the Best Skin Ever and gently massage cloth over face, this removes the dirt of the day and exfoliates. Now add one drop of Best Skin Ever, or Face Serum to the tips of fingers and massage in to face. It has a wonderful scent that is neutral enough for the whole family.

 

Shaving Cream


Zen Shave

This soothing peppermint cream will soften your skin for shaving and completely eliminate any razor burn.

 

Healthy Toothpaste

Oralive Dental Regenrative Elixir

Not enough can be said about this oral supplement. It eliminates bad breath; alleviates gum pain and gum bleeding; inhibits plaque, gingivitis, and cavity causing bacteria; and many of our customers notice that they have whiter teeth starting after just a short period of using it.

The mixture of natural high energy mineral earths, activated herbal extracts, oxygen and marine phytoplankton make the elixir a healthy, charcoal earth tone. It is sweet and minty – quite delicious.

This raw organic elixir is meant to be swallowed after you absorb the initial nutrients through your gum mucosa. We consider this a natural supplement that helps your body heal and stay healthy. It’s packed full of powerful herbal essential oils and tissue regeneration factors not generally found in any product. The benefits of super green botanicals and marine phytoplankton alone are enough to use this as a dietary supplement.

 

Body Lotion

Seabuckthorn Tamanu All Over Lotion

This is a soothing lotion that is restorative and nourishing. It sinks into your skin and it’s meant to be used all over your face and body. It contains spring water, jojoba, tamanu, organic herbal infusions of seabuckthorn berries, marsh mallow root, slippery elm, chamomile, chickweed, rose hips; seaweed extract; aloe vera; acacia; essential oils of lavender, vetiver grapefruit, palmarosa; supercritical antioxidants of sage and rosemary.

 

Unscented Deodorant

Crystal Ally Unscented Body and Foot Spray Deodorant

For an unscented deodorant, this product cannot be beat. Not only is it extremely effective in killing odor causing bacteria, it’s completely aluminum free, comes in an easy to use spray, and even contains essential oils that are specific to the lymphatic system.

 

Scented Deodorant


Poetic Pits Classic: Tree Majesty

If you’d prefer a maculine scent that is shockingly effective and comes in a convenient little roll-on bottle, this one is sure to please. Men will Love Palo Santo, Classic: Tree Majesty, Maverick, Vetiver, or Radiant Earth. Find these amazing deodorants, here.

 

ISUN Shaving and Skin Products for Men

Refresh for Men Facial Cleanser and Shaving Gele’

Our last recommendations are a suite of male skincare products from ISUN. First up is Refresh, a fantastic facial cleanser and shaving gele’ that includes special age-repair and restoring products and, like all products in this suite, is pH balanced to optimize skin health.

 

Replenish for Men Hydrating & Calming After-Shave

Replenish After-Shave is a high-performance, replenishing after shave skin tonic that hydrates, calms and energizes skin cells for rapid renewal, and exclusively includes superconductive Ormus elements. Ormus high-spin atoms accelerate cellular communication and enhance the activity of other nutrients present, giving increased regeneration and therapeutic benefits. All of this is topped off with a pleasant masculine scent.

 

Repair for Men Age Repair Peptide & Antioxidant Serum

Repair for Men is similar to Phyto-Infusion I and Phyto-Infusion II for women, but is specially formulated to be thinner and thus more able to penetrate male skin, as well as containing a slightly different formulation of ingredients. It contains Ormus gold, a dynamic super conductor of light energy and cell communication. It may accelerate cell repair and signs of youth. The presence of ormus may also enhance the activity of the youthrestoring herbs, phytoplankton, plant-derived peptides, antioxidants and enzymes combined with stabilized vitamin C to create a truly advanced, all natural and organic skin-restoration and age preventative serum. While active regenerating and collagen-stabilizing peptides and powerful antioxidants work in harmony to reduce and prevent signs of aging, your skin is naturally protected from harmful effects from UV radiation. Lightactivated photolyase enzymes from a blue algae phytoplankton has been scientifically and clinically proven to protect cellular DNA from UV radiation as well as restore DNA damaged by UV. It also significantly revitalizes the skin’s natural immune system. Together, these actions help prevent skin cancers and aging in skin. The natural UV protection is greatly increased with high levels of antioxidants such as superoxide dismutase (SOD), CoQ10 and stabilized vitamin C ester.

 

Restore for Men Light Facial Oil Moisturizer

Maturing male skin that wants to stay younger looking and maximize age prevention needs an active antioxidant facial oil moisturizer that is light and easily absorbed to efficiently carry protective and regenerating nutrients deep into the skin where it makes a difference. Restore is loaded with high levels of alive, active plant antioxidants, regenerating and anti-inflammatory herbs, antioxidant enzymes and other vital skin nutrients. These are in a light, tiny molecular structure fractionated coconut oil base that is rapidly assimilated into the skin
leaving no oily or greasy feeling. The fractionated coconut oil base will not clog pores and allows the skin to breathe. Restore provides natural UV protection, is soothing and leaves your skin feeling smooth and wonderful to look at and touch. The pure essential oil aroma is a unique masculine scent that women love with a sandalwood and green citrus base.

 

Renew for Men

Vital deep penetrating and lasting hydration for surrounding eye tissue with pure plant-source sodium hyaluronate and glycoaminoglycans is the base of this renewing eye gel. Infused with a concentrated organic herb complex, redness is calmed and skin is firmed. Organic cucumber & rose distillates are added to soothe and cool eye tissues. An Amazonian tree bark extract and plant-derived peptides help reduce puffy eyes and dark circles by stimulating lymphatic drainage and blood flow in eye tissues. This action helps to eliminate water retention that causes puffy eyes, and congestion that can cause stagnation of blood appearing as dark circles. The extracts also activate lipolysis to promote elimination of fat cells that can cause eye bags. No fillers, gelling agents or oils are used in this 100% active ingredient product.

 

Revitalize for Men Energizing Body Moisturizer and Massage Oil

This specially formulated ultra-light body oil moisturizer for men is teeming with a range of antioxidant and soothing herbs that rapidly penetrate skin in a fractionated coconut oil base. Fractionated coconut oil is ideal to add health, youth and vigor to a man’s skin and will not stain clothing. The subtle, yet inviting blend of essential oils included in Revitalize is both purifying and energizing for skin.

Also posted in Beauty, Facial Oils, Hair, Men, My Picks, Oral Care – 0 Comments

How to Naturally Heal Acne and Breakouts. (Finally!)

August 18, 2011

I have struggled with Acne for ages and have felt the pain and frustration associated with it. It’s an uncomfortable issue and a complex one. The reason it can be complex to treat and heal, is because there are many possible causes.

These include:
•    Diet
•    Toxic load in the body
•    Stress & Stored Emotions
•    Hormone Imbalances – increased insulin production can signal the body to release extra male hormones, called androgens, which are involved in excess sebum production, congested follicles, and thus acne formation. Also, sudden changes in hormonal balance, such as those brought about by pregnancy can have a huge affect on skin and acne. An imbalanced estrogen to progesterone ratio in the body will often lead to breakouts before, during, or after menstruation. Any other hormonal abnormalities will also have an affect on acne creation.
•    Medications – including some contraceptive pills, anabolic steroids, lithium, iodine-containing medications, and some anti-epileptic medications, can cause acne do to the imbalances they create in the body.

With all of these possible causes, what can I do?

Well, all of these causes in essence are an imbalance in the body. So, the key to to help your body get back in balance. Here are ways to to do that:

Here are my internal recommendations:

1) A healthy diet and body free of toxins is essential. A healthy diet is more about what you exclude than what you include!  A very acidic diet (animal products, meat & dairy especially, refined sugars, and processed foods) contributes to acne.

Foods to avoid
Regardless of what diet you choose, specifically steer clear of:

  • sugar, definitely refined, but even natural in excess
  • refined starches and grains
  • gluten
  • alcohol
  • caffeine
  • dairy products (especially pasteurized cow dairy)
  • red meat
  • all processed and chemical foods

Foods that are particularly beneficial

  • Omega-3 Fatty Acids: (Chia, Hemp, Flax, Pumpkin Seed, Seabuckthorn, Pomegranate – Seeds & Oils, Algae oils)
  • Marine Phytoplankton
  • fresh organic vegetables and vegetable juices
  • raw fermented foods
  • healthy fats like Coconut Oil, Avocados, and Sun dried Olives.
  • superfoods
  • herbs
  • wild foods
  • fresh organic fruits (in moderation) (berries are healthiest type of fruit)

Herbs and Supplements

Water, Water, Water – spring water or the most pure water available

2) Detoxing is absolutely essential for clear skin. Consider doing fasts and cleanses. Skin issues arise when your internal body is so overloaded with toxins that aren’t being eliminated, so the toxins begin eliminating through the skin. A green juice fast for at least several days or weeks is intensely healing and alkalizing to the body and rejuvenating for skin. I highly recommend Colon Hydro-Therapy in general and it should definitely be included as a part of any cleanse!

Regular exercise is essential not only for overall health, but also for clearing toxins. Also saunas, skin brushing, and massage. Other things to consider in cleansing the body are possible Candida overgrowth. You can find questionnaires online to test yourself.

3) Acne can also be caused by poor fat metabolism. This means that the liver is not capable of fully digesting and assimilating all of the fat and oil entering the system. The health of the skin is often a reflection of the health of the liver. There are various ways to cleanse the liver. Drinking water with lemon every day helps. Eating Raw, Fresh, Organic Fruits and Vegetables is important. I like add large amounts of dandelion to my fresh juices for liver cleansing. Products like Liver Rescue and herbs like Burdock Root, Milk Thistle, Dandelion Root in tincture or tea form are also simple daily ways to keep the liver healthy. Avoiding drugs, medications, and alcohol. Also look into doing liver flushes and cleanses, seasonally, or more frequently for a congested liver. For rapid and highly effective liver cleansing, coffee enemas are excellent.

4) Good skin care makes a significant difference! Immediately remove all chemical acne treatments, like benzoyl peroxide, or any other “medicated” products from your life! The chemicals and the drying effect are awful for skin health and overall body health. Look for products that are naturally antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidant. With ingredients such as MSM (methylsulfonylmethane, a vital naturally occurring sulfur compound), Niacinamide (vitamin B4), Willow bark extract, Neem, Zinc Oxide, Witch Hazel.

Beneficial Essential Oils to add to carrier oils, skin care products, or to apply neat (for certain essential oils take caution before applying neat, or dilute first): lavender, niaouli, immortelle/helichrysum, thyme linalool, carrot seed, rosemary, blue tansy, geranium, bergamot, chamomile, grapefruit, palmarosa, sandalwood, vetiver, basil, cedarwood, rosewood, tea tree, rosemary.

Here is a magical acne and blemish healing essential oil blend.

Here are some products that are amazingly helpful.

5) Hygiene is also important. Change your pillowcase regularly and avoid touching your face with your hands unless you have just washed them.

6) Healthy skin is often a reflection of a healthy emotional body. Focus on healing undigested emotions and emotional wounds.

There is no quick treatment or pill for skin health and healing. Pills and medications only cover over symptoms, create health problems, damage skin, and stop the possibility of healing. Healing is always a process. Acne can take weeks or months to heal. Just take it step-by-step and take your time. Enjoy the loving process of coming into balance again.

Also posted in Acne, Beauty, Healing, Health, Nutrition – 2 Comments

How you can enjoy Beauty, Immunity, and Longevity with only 5 minutes of your time each day!

April 9, 2011

I have something very special to share this week!

An Exclusive Interview with the stunningly Radiant and the uber knowledgable Bethanne Wanamaker, Co-Author of Superfood Beauty Elixirs.

Superfood Beauty Elixirs is my FAVORITE recipe book for super nutrition. I blend several radically beautifying and rejuvenating Elixirs from this cutting-edge Ebook every day. These Elixirs are the foundation of my diet and the nutrition I consume for ultimate health and beauty. You can survive on standard whole foods, smoothies, and juices, but to truly THRIVE at our highest potential, Elixirs like these are essential!


Interview with the Radiant Bethanne Wanamaker, Co-Author of Superfood Beauty Elixirs

Bethanne Wanamaker is a passionate Certified Nutrition and Natural Beauty Educator and Author who is wholeheartedly devoted to empowering women to take control of their own health, make conscious lifestyle decisions, and become responsible and accountable for their actions and results.Her mission is to help women understand the power they hold with regard to their health and the irresistible potential that lies within when we commit to ourselves! Her story, as written in Volume 3 of Thank God I: Stories of Inspiration, was the catalyst experience for transforming her own health, as well as finding her true purpose in this blessed life.

Bethanne is the founder EdibleGoddess.com, a company dedicated to sharing the truth about nutrition, cutting edge health and natural beauty strategies, and a growing range of products that lead to everything you could want for yourself. She studied at Bauman College of Holistic Nutrition to become a Certified Nutrition Educator and has pursued an immense level of continuing education and teaching others in topics relating to holistic nutrition, cleansing and detoxification, longevity, raw foods, Superfoods, super tonic herbs, natural beauty, flower essences, human potential, self-development and discovery.

1. What inspired you to create Superfood Beauty Elixirs?

We had been making simple versions of our elixirs for some time with MSM and whole food vitamin C and then just kept taking it to the next level – for taste, benefits, and to maximize the synergy between the ingredients we chose. It really started with these MSM/Vitamin C drinks (such as the Morning Beauty, Orange Snow Breeze, Pink Limeade) and then a cascade of ideas poured in!

The Green Supreme was created because I was traveling to Southern CA to work the LongevityNOW Conference and wanted to make a powder blend that covered all my needs while I was on the road and working super long hours. I needed to be able to mix it with just straight spring water and have it taste good, and keep me going throughout the weekend. This is one of our longest list of ingredients for our recipes (which I’d like to change in a future edition of the book) because of this. It’s the “all-in-one” – the one to make ahead of time if you have limited access to your Superhero goodies while away from home. I remember driving back home with friends, drinking my Green Supreme (which did not have a name at the time), and my friends kept saying, “you know, everyone loved your elixirs this weekend – you could really do something with this.” And from the moment I got home, Christian and I played in the kitchen taking our original simple elixir ideas combined with our recent inspiration, and created the book.

2. Do you drink elixirs like these every day? Give us an example of how you work them into your schedule.

I do drink the elixirs every day, and typically between 1-3 each day. During the 6 months it took to write our book, we made elixirs every night to test, re-test our sweet creations. Ever since, we’ve gotten in the habit of making an elixir as a “night cap” just a few hours before bed (maybe an hour after dinner or so) and we’ll enjoy it that evening and then I save a cup for myself in the fridge so I have something ready for me when I awaken the next day. We brew tonic herbal tea multiple times per day: we use it as part of the base in a seed/nut mylk for a Superfood smoothie, on chilly afternoons to keep warm and cozy, and in the evening as a nice hot cup of satisfying tea (sweetened with stevia). We go in phases with the kefir, but usually have at least one batch per week which will make us a few ultra-refreshing coconut kefir elixirs. The kefir recipes have become some of my favorites in the book and because of the high probiotic content, each drinks FEELS massively healing, which I love. There is something unbelievably quenching about the kefir recipes, and it’s always an exciting moment when we have the kefir ready to make chilled elixirs.

3. Why Superfoods and Superherbs? Can’t we just eat plenty of fruits & vegetables or drink plenty of juices?

This is a question that will always come up in the raw food movement and that’s great because many of us want simple answers to complex issues. Yet, in each of our own experiences with eating solely fruits, vegetables, and freshly made juices, it was great in the very short-term, but felt there were something missing ultimately – even with a diverse selection of local produce. Bringing wild foods, Superfoods, and tonic herbs into the diet really do take your health to the next level and it’s usually a level of health that was not imaginable beforehand. With environmental pollution so prevalent, and the fact that our soils are not even close to being as healthy as they were 100 years ago, even organic fruits and vegetables do not have the potential to allow your body full gene expression. Christian and I want seriously be as healthy as we can be, and that means hand-selecting from different dietary approaches and taking the very best of them, and compiling our own version of the optimal individual diet. Wild foods, Superfood, and tonic herbs bring with them an immense potential for activating the innate healing regenerative energy within us all and considering it is we that have the ability to heal ourselves, we are willing to step outside the super extreme purists diet and emphasize foods correlated with longevity, genius, and spiritual growth.

4. One common comment I hear about people being resistant to superfoods is are that they’re too expensive and not realistically affordable. What do you have to say about that? How do you make it work?

Packaged Superfoods certainly can have a high price tag, yet so can all packaged raw and organic foods as well. All wild foods are considered “Superfoods” and they are free and offered to us in abundance. Consider that if you buy a bottle of wild blue green algae (which happens to be very pricey because it also happens to be one of the foods EVER we could consume – a little goes a long way, so you’re not going through the bottle in 1 month. Each bottle lasts a long time (even has a great shelf life), so it’s not like you’re going out buying this stuff on a weekly basis. There IS a start-up cost, just like anything though – you may pay more initially and then the expenses go down depending upon your usage and chosen maintenance amount.

I also feel that I am my greatest investment, so I am willing to do whatever it takes to keep myself not only well, but getting younger and healthier as each year passes. Since putting health as my #1 priority, I’ve gone through my expenditures for the month and taken a close look at how I spend my money – and found ways to whittle down other expenses so I could create the life I wanted. We all spend money every day, it’s just a matter of HOW you spend it. I could look at anyone’s finances and help you determine ways to eat healthier and continue to up-level your health, even on a strict budget, and after being laid off (or any financial downfall). With my own health, I am not willing to compromise – that would be too easy and full of symptoms to do.

5. If you could pick just a handful of superfoods or superherbs to have at home, say top 5, what would they be?

Wild blue green algae, seaweeds, fresh aloe (from whole leaf), spirulina/chlorella (have to have both for various reasons), and medicinal mushrooms (#1 being Reishi)

6. What differences have you noticed in your health and beauty with these elixirs in your life?

I have definitely felt more deeply nourished since incorporating these elixirs into my life, without question. I love that I can get an infusion of mouth-watering goodness in a divinely delicious way, and not have to rely on taking pills. Consuming tonic elixirs are a liberating choice and they have the ability to address so many issues and layers at once. Specifically, my diet feels much more well-rounded since making them a staple in my routine. I have less cravings because of the deep nourishment they offer – like they’re filling in nutritional gaps that supplements just aren’t able to do. The elixirs are made with 100% food – no “supplements”, so our bodies respond much more favorably to whole food nutrition than vitamins and minerals in isolated form. Also, I’ve noticed a preserving youthful effect on my skin (which is just a reflection of what is going on internally) and that is an amazing and clear sign that I am more mineralized and truly healthier, and therefore my skin skin appears more radiant. There is also a mental satisfaction when drinking the elixirs – they’re like non-alcoholic sweet, yet super low-glycemic cocktails, so you get the magic potion in a glass that is actually going to leave you feeling much better the next morning!

7. Are elixirs like these essential for external beauty? If so, why?

I believe they are based upon what I’ve personally experienced and what I’ve witnessed in others. As we all know, radiant beauty comes from within, so not only do we want to release accumulated toxins and poisons from the body, but just as importantly we want to infuse our body with super nutrient-density to restore, regenerate, and repair us from top head to toe. We’ve found the elixirs to be the most delicious, cost-effective, and practical way to get medicinal quality foods into the diet with the greatest potential for producing immediate results – something which is likely enticing to us all. Not to mention, with liquid nutrition the absorption level is at an all-time maximum (highly bio-available), so the drinks really deliver on their promised results.

8. If you had to chose one elixir recipe that is the ultimate for gorgeous skin, hair, and nails, and overall radiance, what would it be?

#1 Green Supreme, #2 Ancient Wisdom, #3 Tropical Quench (I had to list three… ;) But if you were to say the “ultimate” one – it’s a hard choice, but I feel Green Supreme is THE overall best beauty tonic elixir in our book with Ancient Wisdom a close 2nd.

9. What’s next for you?

The Conscious Goddess Cleanse: Bethanne is leading women from all over the world in a purifying detox program. It includes all the Healthforce products you’ll need to complete the cleanse, private phone sessions with her, and weekly teleseminars with leading experts – including me!

Be sure to check out Bethanne’s Conscious Goddess Cleanse - where I’m a featured guest speaker!

Here is Bethanne’s phenomenal Ebook, Superfood Beauty Elixirs:

Superfood Beauty Elixirs

Superfood Beauty Elixirs <- Click here to THRIVE at a new level!

Here are some of the Superfoods featured in the Ebook. These are some of the basic ingredients you’ll need to make the Elixirs:

Vitamineral Green & Vitamineral Earth
 Vitamineral Green is a superior, nutrionally dense therapeutic green superfood powder. Vitamineral Green nutritionally supports blood sugar, detoxification, the immune system, liver, kidneys, blood, bones, colon, regularity, circulation, and longevity.
Earth Sacred Healing Food contains essiac herbs, healing roots, barks, and seeds. Soothes colon, supports blood sugar, colon health, detoxification, immune system, and longevity. Earth can can be used on its own as a grounding superfood blend, or ideally taken in the same day as Vitamineral Green for a balance of yin and yang, a grounding to Vitamineral Green’s more etheric qualities.

<- Click here to CLEANSE, REJUVENATE, and THRIVE at a new level!


Plant-derived MSM Crystals: The Ultimate BEAUTY Mineral!
MSM works to build collagen, helping to create smooth skin, thick lustrous hair, and strong nails. MSM also restores and maintains healthy joints, increases flexibility, speeds recovery time from sore muscles, and is excellent for recovery from injuries. MSM makes the tissues more permeable so that they may move nutrients in and toxins out with greater ease. MSM has a remarkable effect at neutralizing foreign proteins (i.e. allergens, toxins, undigested food) making it anti-inflammatory. It provides a source of organic sulfur for the amino acids that are essential for internal cleansing.

I mix these MSM Crystals into drinks twice a day. This is the highest quality MSM available and is the only one I have found that is NOT derived from Petroleum sources.

<-Try MSM for true beauty from the inside out!

Truly Natural Vitamin C
The essential companion to MSM. MSM and Vitamin C work together synergistically. Vitamin C helps the body fully absorb the MSM. Truly Natural Vitamin C is food, not an Vitamin C synthetic or isolate. This is a naturally occuring Vitamin C in powered form. Unlike synthetic or isolates, neither of which occur in nature, this Vitamin C is non-toxic in any dosage amount and is highly absorbable. I take Vitamin C at least 3 or 4 times a day. Vitamin C not only boosts our immune systems, but it also required for collagen production. Vitamin C also speeds up skin healing and protects it from environmental aggressors.

<-Get your Vitamin C the way nature instead – an essential nutrient for health and beauty!

Also posted in Beauty, Beauty Foods, Food, Healing, Health, Nutrition, Recipes – 1 Comment

The Simple Solution for Oily Skin

February 10, 2011

One common cause for excess oil secretion is a lack of hydration in and around the skin cells underneath the skin’s surface. When this is the case, the skin’s sebaceous glands try to correct the imbalance or lack of moisture by producing more oil, which makes oily skin even oilier. Typically, this is treated with drying agents that may produce a temporary effect of having less oil on the skin’s surface, but long term, it can cause an even greater imbalance, with even more oil secretion by the sebaceous glands.

I used to use products with drying agents that were supposed to create a matte effect on the skin. Yet, my skin seemed even more oily and was excessively dry. Finally, I met a wonderful aesthetician in Seattle that told me to moisturize more and to forget oil-free products. I found this advice hard to believe at the time, but I was quickly amazed by the results! My skin now has a lovely glow, but is not slick with oil.

So. . . the solution for oily skin is to hydrate and moisturize the skin to give the oil-producing glands a message that they no longer have to produce excess oil to compensate for the lack of skin moisture. Use very moisturizing oils and creams on the face, but avoid creams that contain heavy emulsifiers or fillers, which can clog pores. Beeswax can potentially clog pores if it is used as a primary ingredient, making up a large quantity of the cream.

Here’s to a dewy glow, without the oil slick!

Also posted in Beauty – 2 Comments
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