This guide is packed with actionable tips and nourishing hair care solutions to help you transform your hair.
Continue reading
We've all been there: investing time, energy, and hard-earned money into a skincare routine, hoping for glowing and flawless skin. A few weeks in, and rather than that coveted glow, you notice those pesky fine lines still lingering, persistent dry patches, or even a new breakout. You wonder, "Why isn't my skincare routine working?"
The truth is, it's not always instantly visible when your skincare regimen is falling short. Identifying the signs early can save your skin from additional harm. Let's help you spot those signs and guide you on how to adapt your routine for the best results.
Just a few adjustments, like checking your skincare ingredients or choosing the right products, can get you back on track toward healthy skin.
We’ve all been there—those stubborn spots that seem immune to every product you try. If your acne-prone skin isn’t responding, your routine may not be addressing clogged pores or excess sebum production. Overloading your skin with harsh active ingredients like benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid can strip natural oils, making breakouts worse.
Instead, aim for balance. A gentle cleanser paired with products containing soothing hyaluronic acid or tea tree oil can help calm inflammation without over-drying your skin.
If your skin feels tight or uncomfortable after washing, it’s likely a sign your cleanser is too harsh. This can strip your skin of essential moisture, damaging your skin barrier and leaving you with alligator-like skin and noticeable dry patches.
Switch to a hydrating formula with shea butter, coconut oil, or aloe vera to replenish lost moisture and protect your skin’s natural barrier.
Dark spots or uneven skin tone that won’t fade could mean your routine is missing essential brightening ingredients. A lack of vitamin C serum or products that stimulate collagen production might be to blame.
Add marula oil to your skincare regimen for a powerful dose of antioxidants that fade discoloration and improve elasticity. Be consistent, as brightening results take time!
Dullness can be caused by a buildup of dead skin cells, meaning your skin isn’t exfoliating itself effectively. While chemical exfoliants like lactic acid are great at addressing this, overuse can backfire by irritating your skin.
Incorporate a gentle exfoliant 1–2 times a week to maintain a healthy glow. Follow up with a nourishing body moisturizer or face mask to lock in hydration and keep your skin looking fresh.
Persistent redness or irritation, especially for sensitive skin, is often a sign your routine is too aggressive. Harsh skincare ingredients or even external factors like weather changes can trigger inflammation.
Opt for products with soothing properties, like shea butter or essential oils, and avoid endocrine disruptors or overly complex formulations.
Using a product religiously but seeing no improvement? It’s time to reassess. Some skincare products may not be suitable for your skin type or address your desired results.
Make sure your routine is customized to your skin type to target specific concerns. If you’re ever unsure about skin issues, it's always smart to consult a board-certified dermatologist for professional advice.
Choosing the wrong product for your skin type can wreak havoc on your skin. For example, using a product meant for oily skin on dry skin might strip away essential moisture, leaving you with tightness and irritation. The key is finding products tailored to your unique skin needs.
Your skin is constantly influenced by external factors like changing seasons, stress levels, and even hormonal changes. These shifts can disrupt your routine, causing breakouts, redness, or dullness. It’s important to adjust your routine to match what your skin needs during these fluctuations.
Your routine might not be working because it’s missing crucial elements. Skipping exfoliation, or failing to follow up with a hydrating body moisturizer can leave your skin feeling incomplete. Every step in your routine plays a role in supporting healthy skin.
Look into the ingredients in your makeup. You'd be surprised to see all the hard-to-pronounce Some of the ingredients in these products can start to sound like a chemistry textbook! If icky ingredients are sinking into your skin through your makeup, your skincare routine may not be able to counteract it.
What’s in your products matters. Incorporating star ingredients like vitamin C and shea butter can make all the difference. These powerhouses provide hydration, repair damaged skin, and boost radiance, ensuring your routine delivers visible results.
But it’s not just about adding good ingredients—it’s also about avoiding overuse. Too many chemical peels or harsh active ingredients like benzoyl peroxide can irritate your skin, leaving it red and sensitive. Strike a balance by using exfoliants sparingly and focusing on products with soothing and nourishing components.
Besides using the wrong products for your skin, there are a few other things to consider that might be impacting your skin:
Improving your skincare routine is a journey that involves time, patience, and understanding your skin's needs. P.S. Always listen to your skin and remember to enjoy the process, after all, it's all part of your self-care routine.
Discover how Rinse Bath & Body's handmade and fresh products can help you on this journey, making your skincare routine less toxic and MORE effective!
When your current routine isn’t cutting it, Rinse Bath & Body is here to save the day with handmade, fresh products designed for every skin type. Here’s how Rinse can help you get back on track:
Say goodbye to dry patches with our rich body lotions, packed with skin-loving ingredients like shea butter and cocoa butter. These lotions deliver intense hydration, rebuilding your skin barrier and leaving your skin silky smooth. Try our Squalane Oil for an extra boost of hydration on the face by itself or with your daily moisturizer, or use it on any dry patches on your body.
Our gentle cleansers are perfect for sensitive skin and effectively remove dirt and makeup without stripping moisture. Formulated in small batches, they’re as fresh as they are effective.
Our scrubs gently remove dead skin cells to reveal brighter, healthier skin. Balanced with hydrating ingredients, they’re ideal for maintaining your glow. For the face specifically, check out our Cafe Mocha face mask and our Oatbrasion face mask. These are really great exfoliators, yet they are gentle enough to use on the face!
All of Rinse’s products are crafted in small batches with simple, effective ingredients your skin will love. Whether you’re looking for a new body lotion, soap, or nourishing oils Rinse has what you need to elevate your skincare routine.
If your current skincare journey feels more frustrating than fabulous, it’s time to try something new. Explore Rinse Bath & Body’s thoughtfully crafted products and discover the right products for glowing healthy skin.
You deserve a routine that works—start yours today with Rinse! Shop our facial care products, build your skincare routine step by step, or reach out to us for personalized advice!
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/21792-hormonal-acne
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5722010/
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/317151
Continue reading
When we are battling congestion, whether it’s a stuffy nose from the common cold, sinus congestion from allergy symptoms, or chest congestion from the flu, all we wish for is the sweet relief of a clear airway. Essential oils may be the natural remedy that can provide that much-needed relief and help us breathe easier. But how do they work, and which oils should we be using?
If you've been searching for a natural way to combat the discomfort of congestion, then you’ve certainly come to the right place. We have all the info on essential oils that can help you breathe freely and improve the health of your respiratory system.
Say goodbye to congestion and welcome the soothing power of essential oils!
Congestion refers to a feeling of stuffiness or fullness in your nasal passages or chest, usually as a result of inflammation or excessive mucus production. Congestion can stem from various causes including:
Ever wondered what makes those magical drops in your diffuser or massage oil so powerful? Essential oils are natural plant extracts that capture the scent and benefits of the plant. They're known for lots of health perks, like fighting off bacteria!
Now, let's understand which essential oils pack the most punch in battling congestion.
This is one of the best essential oils for congestion. It clears stuffy noses by relaxing the muscles that line the nasal passages. The active ingredient in eucalyptus radiata, cineole, holds powerful antimicrobial properties that can ward off the cold and flu viruses that often cause congestion.
Breathe in the invigorating aroma of peppermint oil, and feel your nasal passages open up. Its main component, menthol, is a powerful decongestant and an effective treatment for sinus infections.
Don't be fooled by its pleasant smell; this oil is a powerhouse of antimicrobial properties that can fight off bacteria and viruses responsible for respiratory issues.
This oil is a jack-of-all-trades. Its sweet, soothing aroma masks a powerful fighter of inflammation and a promoter of easier breathing. Lavender oil also has a calming effect that can offer restful sleep and stress relief (even with a stuffy nose!)
This potent blend, often made from a mix of clove, lemon, cinnamon, eucalyptus, and rosemary oils, is widely known for its immune system-boosting properties. It can help clear congested airways while fighting off the bacteria and viruses that contribute to respiratory issues. Its antimicrobial qualities make it a go-to remedy during cold and flu season.
Wondering where this oil got its name? As the story goes...Back in the day (we're talking the plague day) there were thieves who robbed plague victims - but they never got the plague. After they were finally apprehended, part of their sentencing was giving up their secrets.
Well, it turned out that they were spice merchants by trade & used the oils/herbs to help protect themselves.
Pro tip: This oil is great to use when under the weather but also even before you get sick!
Frankincense oil is renowned for its ability to ease breathing difficulties. Its anti-inflammatory properties help reduce swelling in the nasal passages, allowing for easier airflow. Additionally, Frankincense can soothe the respiratory system, making it a great option for relieving both nasal and chest congestion.
Diffusing these oils into the air creates an aromatic environment that can offer considerable relief from congestion. We do not recommend putting any of our essential oils directly onto the skin, for oils that can be applied to the skin, check out our oil roll-on collection here! But remember, each person may react differently, and it's essential to do a patch test on your skin before getting started. It's these amazing benefits of essential oils that offer a lifeline when congestion starts to take over.
Essential oils can be harnessed in several ways to combat congestion right at home.
This can be done by adding a few drops of essential oils into a bowl of steaming water. Cover your head with a towel, lean over the bowl, and breathe in deeply. The steam helps to open up your nasal passages, and the essential oils provide soothing relief. Eucalyptus, peppermint, or tea tree oils are excellent choices for this method.
A diffuser disperses essential oils into the air, creating a fragrant space around you. You can use this all day or at night for better sleep despite congestion. Lavender oil is exceptionally good for nighttime diffusion, thanks to its calming properties.
For this, you will need to mix your chosen essential oil with "carrier oils"—like coconut oil, jojoba oil, or sweet almond oil—to dilute them for safe skin application. Then, gently massage the diluted oil onto your chest for an oil-based decongestant. This method works best with eucalyptus and peppermint oils. Our roll-on collection is perfect for applying under your nose, behind the ears, on the temples, and to the bottom of your feet.
Remember, essential oils are potent substances, and their use should always be accompanied by safety precautions. Always ensure that you perform a patch test to check for any allergic reactions.
Pro tip: use just one essential oil at a time and observe how your body responds before you try another.
Disclaimer: it's vital to understand that pregnant women or those with serious health issues should approach essential oils with caution and always seek professional medical advice before applying or inhaling them.
Finding relief from congestion does not always require a trip to the pharmacy. Essential oils harness the natural healing power of plants to help you breathe easier and soothe congestion without relying on synthetic ingredients. Plus, they smell great, turning your relief into a calming, spa-like experience.
One of the best things about using essential oils is avoiding the overuse of medications, like antibiotics, which, according to The World Health Organization, can contribute to antibiotic resistance. By choosing these natural alternatives, you’re not just clearing your sinuses—you’re also supporting your overall well-being in a healthier, more sustainable way.
Breathe easy, the natural way!
Congestion can put a damper on your daily activities. However, with Rinse Bath & Body's handcrafted essential oils, you can get back to breathing easily and feeling your best. We believe in fresh, homemade solutions to some of life's most persistent troubles.
Our line of handmade essential oils is carefully formulated, bearing in mind the many ailments they can help soothe. We are committed to using the finest ingredients nature has to offer to create certified organic oil combinations that target issues such as congestion. The following oils are our favs when it comes to feeling under the weather:
Whether you're looking to breathe easy or turn your space into a temporary spa, it's amazing what a few drops of our oils can do! From zapping headaches to kicking sinus infections to the curb, get ready to experience the magic of our essential oils.
Looking for another way to enjoy the benefits of essential oils? Check out our Shower Bomb Collection! These shower bombs pack the same amazing essential oil scents but with an extra dash of fun. As they fizz and release soothing aromas, you'll feel your congestion melt away. They're perfect as a self-care treat or a thoughtful gift for anyone who could use some relaxation and relief.
Our Refreshing Sprays are another perfect way to enjoy the benefits of essential oils anytime, anywhere! With just a spritz, you can feel an instant boost of soothing aromas that help clear congestion and refresh your senses. Whether you're at home, in the car, or out and about, these sprays are a convenient and refreshing way to keep congestion at bay.
Everyone deserves to breathe easy. When you choose Rinse Bath & Body, you're choosing quality. So, take back your comfort and invite in the wonderfully soothing scents of our fresh, handmade essential oils.
Explore our delightful range of aromatherapy products today and start your journey toward better breathing and comfort.
https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/antimicrobial-resistance
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3612440/
https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements-tea-tree-oil/art-20364246
Continue reading
Beard balm vs. oil? Think of it like this: beard oil is your daily moisturizer, keeping your beard soft and the skin underneath happy. Use oil for softness, and balm for shape—together, they’re the dream team for your beard!
Continue reading
Have you ever thought about how incredible it is that nature holds the key to so many of the challenges we face in our daily lives? We get nourishment from plants/animals, vitamin D from sunshine, hydration from water, mental clarity from fresh air – the list could go on and on! We are strong believers in harnessing the healing power of what nature has to offer and we’re so excited to announce that we have done just that in our newest product launch! Our brand new Hand & Muscle Salves are made with some of nature’s finest time-tested ingredients to help bring you the soothing relief and deep hydration you need!
Salves have been used for millennia across many different times and cultures thanks to their unique ability to effectively lock in moisture for deep hydration and their incredible versatility. The core ingredients in salves haven’t really changed over time. Looking back to ancient Egypt, Greece, and Rome, we see that salves were often made with olive oil, beeswax, and herbal extracts – all of which you will find in our salves today! Ancient cultures used salves to treat all kinds of things from wounds to burns and other skin conditions. We crafted ours to be your go-to choice when you need to lock in moisture and keep irritating dryness away! Each one is made with highly concentrated ingredients meaning a little goes a long way! Read on to learn more about these exciting new hand and muscle salves!
Hand Salves
Our brand new Hand Salves come in 2 heavenly scents – Lavender and Mint! They contain highly concentrated amounts of some of our favorite skin-loving ingredients including olive oil, beeswax, coconut oil, shea butter, vitamin e, and 100% naturally derived essential oils! This unique combination means the salves are perfect for helping to provide a barrier on the skin that works to help keep moisture in and dryness away!
With constant exposure to all kinds of different elements, our hands can be prone to quickly becoming dry and irritated. It’s a highly uncomfortable feeling that we’re all a little too familiar with but, thankfully, this is where our hand salves shine! They’re fantastic for using any times your hands are dry and cracked thanks to their skin-supporting ingredients, but they’re also great for use as a preventative measure as well! We love keeping a tin on our nightstand for use at bedtime to give our hands a little overnight rejuvenation. We also love keeping some by the sink to help give them an infusion of moisture after doing the dishes! It’s also a good idea to use them anytime you’re going to be wearing gloves for an extended period of time!
Although these are “hand salves,” they’re highly versatile and can be used for a wide range of purposes! They can be a game changer for any of those areas that are prone to dryness like the elbows, knees, feet, and more! Try applying a little anywhere that you are experiencing rough or dry skin to enjoy some natural relief!
Remember that the ingredients are highly concentrated, so a little goes a long way. The amount you need is far less than with traditional lotions so start small and build up until you reach your desired level of moisturization!
Muscle Salves
Sometimes our muscles need a little extra TLC too, which is why we created our brand new muscle salves! These come in 2 unique varieties – a Cooling Muscle Salve and a Warming Muscle Salve. Each was designed to serve unique purposes so there’s something for every need! Each of these salves is made with the same base of skin-loving ingredients as the hand salves, but these contain additional blends of essential oils to work as targeted warming or cooling therapies that absorb into your muscles and go to work!
Our Cooling Muscle Salve delivers a targeted cooling therapy that’s great for a wide range of uses when you might want a little relief from discomfort or inflammation! It contains eucalyptus and peppermint essential oils along with camphor and arnica which not only smell great, but help to provide a cooling effect! We love using it as a post-workout recovery technique, applying a little after exercise to help soothe our muscles. It’s also a fantastic option when dealing with nagging headaches. Applying a small amount to the temples, forehead, and back of the neck can go a long way towards helping to alleviate the pain and providing a soothing cooling effect! Speaking of the head and neck area, this cooling salve can be a great option for general neck and shoulder tension, especially after a long period of sitting at your computer!
Our Warming Muscle Salve contains the same skin-loving ingredients with a different blend of essential oils to provide a relaxing warming therapy! Ingredients in this salve include chili oil, lemongrass oil, ginger oil, and cayenne extract! This blend is great for using before exercise to prep the muscles and get them ready for movement! We love it for soothing stiff or tight muscles, and have even enjoyed using it when dealing with those uncomfortable menstrual cramps!
We’re forever amazed by the healing power of nature and invite you to give these amazing new Hand & Muscle Salves a try! We think you’re going to love them!
Continue reading
There’s something so satisfying about finding perfect pairings in life. You know, the ones that go together effortlessly and make you feel like for a moment in time there’s perfect harmony in the world. It’s that comfortable and familiar feeling we get from peanut butter & jelly, milk & cookies, chips & salsa, alarm clocks & betrayal. Wait, strike that last one!
Maybe not all perfect pairings bring us peace and harmony, but in the world of essential oils there are quite a few that go together flawlessly. These pairings don’t just smell great, but they level up the powerful benefits of the oils and allow you to customize your blends for exactly what you need! Read on to learn about some of our favorite pairings and why you should consider giving them a shot!
Lavender & Peppermint Oil
Do we even need to say more? These two iconic oils are powerhouses in and of themselves and, when combined, this duo harmonizes perfectly with complementary properties! As you probably know, lavender oil is widely used for its calming and relaxing properties. Many people love to use it at night time to help them relax and drift off into a restful sleep. Peppermint, on the other hand, is known as being refreshing and invigorating. Combining these oils together gives the best of both worlds. This is one of our favorite blends for times when we need to find a little calm and focus. It’s a great option for using when during times when you need to concentrate a little more than usual at work or at school!
Sweet Orange & Peppermint
This delicious smelling blend reminds us of a soft breeze on a sunny day! The bright, citrusy sweet orange oil is both uplifting and invigorating – it feels kind of like adding a little sunshine to your life! Combined with the minty and refreshing peppermint oil, we love this combination for a variety of situations. It’s a favorite for when we’re having anxious moments or need to focus. We love using it at times when we may want to help promote a little extra mental clarity as we work or study, especially when we know we're going to need to recall the information later!
Sweet Orange & Lavender
These oils go together in such a harmonious way giving both uplifting and calming benefits. In today’s crazy and chaotic world, who wouldn't want that?! We love using this combo in the diffuser at the end of a long, stressful, anxiety-filled day to help create an aromatic environment that helps us unwind. It's perfect for when you want to help ease your mind and prepare your body for a peaceful night’s sleep!
Peppermint, Orange, & Lemon
Remember when we mentioned alarm clock betrayal? This powerful combo is definitely what you’ll want to have handy for those stressful moments when you need to wake up and get moving! Peppermint, orange, and lemon oils all have energizing and invigorating properties that blend together in a dynamic and harmonious way to provide so many benefits! The zesty, citrus scents of lemon and orange are excellent for helping to uplift mood while the peppermint invigorates, giving you exactly what you need to wake up and seize the day!
Lavender & Eucalyptus
This blend comes in clutch when dealing with pesky seasonal colds. The combination of lavender and eucalyptus essential oils is a great way to help promote relaxation and wellness, especially when it comes to respiratory issues. These oils are loved by many for their ability to help promote clear breathing and soothe congestion. The relaxing properties of lavender oil can help to reduce stress and allow for a little extra relaxation during times when you are feeling a little under the weather!
Frankincense & Lavender
If you aren’t already on the frankincense oil bandwagon, what are you waiting for!? This ancient, earthy oil is loved the world over for it’s ability to help promote a sense of tranquility. Combining it with lavender which is known for is relaxing properties is one of the best ways to “treat yourself” when you really want to enjoy a sense of calm! Try adding in a little sweet orange as well to help boost your spirits and enjoy all that these incredible oils have to offer!
Which blend are you going to try first!?
Continue reading
If you’re reading this, go ahead and give yourself a big pat on the back for surviving the ever-challenging “Spring Forward” time change! While we love the longer days that come with Daylight Savings Time, if we’re being honest we must admit that losing an hour of sleep and adjusting to a new routine definitely takes a toll! As if it weren’t enough to have our clocks conspiring against us, this time of year is notorious for another foe... the return of the dreaded seasonal allergies! IYKYK! Just thinking about it makes us want to sneeze!
If you’re one of the fortunate few who sail through unaffected by the pollen saturated air, consider yourself blessed! According to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, approximately 81 MILLION people in the United States were diagnosed with seasonal allergic rhinitis (also known as “hay fever”) in 2021. That’s no small number! There’s a good chance that you or someone you know is part of this 81 million and, if so, you’re probably always on the hunt for ways to find a little relief!
1. Limit Exposure
This one may seem obvious, but if allergies are known to give you a run for your money, it may be a good idea to limit your exposure as much as possible. No, we’re not suggesting that you put yourself on house arrest and stay indoors from March until May, but we are suggesting being intentional with your time outside!
Allergies can be worse during certain times of the day, particularly the morning and evening, as pollen levels tend to peak during these times. Given this fact, try planning to get your daily dose of sunshine during the middle of the day if possible!
Pollen can also be especially troublesome on dry, windy days. Sometimes it’s better to just wait it out until after a rain to enjoy a little fresh air!
2. Nasal Irrigation
The saying "desperate times call for desperate measures” comes to mind with this one. Who doesn’t love the idea of pouring water into their nose in the name of combating seasonal allergies?! Sigh... It’s certainly not our most glamorous tip, but it may be one of our most effective ones!
Using a saline solution as a nasal rinse can be a great (and inexpensive) way to give yourself the upper hand by rinsing your nasal passages of the pollen and irritants to help keep you sniffle-free!
3. Essential Oils
Here at Rinse, we LOVE our essential oils! There are so many oils that are amazing year-round, but during the Spring months we find ourselves especially drawn to our Aller-Ease essential oil blend!
What’s Aller-Ease, you ask? It’s our fan-favorite blend of a variety of essential oils including pure lavender oil, lemon oil, and peppermint oil. As you can imagine, it smells GREAT but, even more than that, this unique blend of oils comes together to create a therapeutic aromatherapy experience that our customers love!
Essential oils have a long history of being effective for helping with all sorts of everyday challenges and helping to promote wellbeing. The three oils included in this blend are known as some of the most common “titans” of essential oils, so you can be sure that they pack a punch when it comes to delivering natural benefits!
You can take advantage of all the benefits of Aller-Ease in a variety of ways, but our favorite has to be with the Aller-Ease Essential Oil Roll-On! This handy roll-on comes packaged for optimal use and convenience! The blend includes Squalane Oil as a carrier oil, making it easily absorbable and ready for use on the skin! It also includes a rollerball applicator which makes using it a breeze! Simply roll the ball across the temples, forehead, and in between the eyebrows to apply and start enjoying all the benefits! Some customers even love to put a dab on the tip of their nose!
Another great way to enjoy Aller-Ease is with our Certified Organic Pure Essential Oil! As with all of our pure essential oils, this one is made of the highest quality USDA approved oils so you can be sure that you’re getting a pure and natural aromatherapy experience! Try adding a few drops to your diffuser and enjoy!
Aller-Ease is one of our most popular blends for a reason! Check out what our customers are saying!
“I recently bought this product to try for my allergies. I was very happy with how well and how fast it worked for me. The roll on makes it easy to use.” - Kimberly A.
“This helps calm my throat and cough against the miserable allergies I have!” - Katrina M.
“I love this! I use this each evening before climbing in bed! It smells great and helps open up my sinuses.” - Jessica M.
“Best Stuff! I have given this to so many friends & family, & they are amazed at how good it works, without any side effects!” - Beth A.
4. Local Honey
If you’re in the market for a tasty tip, this is it! There’s a long-held theory that many people swear by. Essentially, the theory is that by eating local honey you’re ingesting local allergens and thus helping your body build up immunity to them. While we admittedly have no idea if the theory holds true, we’re all for giving it a shot because who doesn’t love an excuse to eat a little honey!?
5. Purify Indoor Air
In your effort to fight back against seasonal allergies, don’t forget the importance of purifying the indoor air at home! This is often overlooked but can make a world of difference! There are all sorts of ways you can work to clean the air in your home, starting with the obvious... changing out your air filter! If you’re like us, this doesn’t get done as often as it should so take this as your reminder to go ahead and swap out your dirty filter for a clean one!
It’s also super important to be diligent about keeping your space clean! As much fun as it is to feel a warm spring breeze blowing through your home, it’s a good idea to keep your windows shut to keep the pollen out. Even if you never crack a window, the tiny pollen particles are going to find their way in, so it’s a good idea to make time to dust and vacuum more regularly to help get rid of these pesky irritants.
Another fantastic (and much more fun) option is to add some plants to your home! Not only are plants beautiful and cheerful to keep around, but they also can help to purify the air thanks to a process called “phytoremediation”. It’s a big word that essentially describes nature's way of helping to clean up our messes! Why not give your green thumb a try and add a few plants in your home to help clean the air and add a touch of joy!?
Continue reading
It’s hard to pinpoint the exact cause of it, but it seems that many Americans are turning towards a more natural approach to wellness these days. In fact, a recent survey found that more than 40% of Americans report embracing a more natural lifestyle when it comes to everything from growing their own food to choosing more natural and holistic wellness remedies.
It’s an exciting trend to see people getting “back to nature” and rediscovering the amazing benefits of so many of nature’s gifts! We’re breaking down a few of our wellness favorites and giving you a gameplan for when you need a little boost! Read on to learn more about some of our wellness faves!
Frankincense
How could we start anywhere other than the “King of Oils”?! Frankincense is one of our favorite oils for so many reasons, not the least of which is its incredible wellness benefits! This ancient oil has been used for centuries for a wide range of purposes. It has incredible anti-inflammatory properties which can be helpful in reducing the inflammatory effects that come with feeling a little under the weather. A recent lab study even shows that Frankincense may have strong immunostimulant properties meaning it may help give you a little boost when your immune system is being put to the test! Some believe that it also has some expectorant properties and may help promote the clearing of nasal congestion allowing you to breathe a little easier. It’s a perfect option to try the next time you’re feeling crummy!
How to Use It:
Eucalyptus
Another powerful oil with amazing wellness benefits is Eucalyptus oil. In fact, you may have used this oil in the past without even knowing it as many vapor rubs, chest rubs, and other over the counter cold and cough products actually include it as an ingredient! The key component in Eucalyptus oil is a compound known as eucalyptol or cineole. This powerful compound has been found to have potent antimicrobial properties. This, combined with the anti-inflammatory and expectorant properties of Eucalyptus oil make it a must-have in your wellness toolkit!
How to Use It:
Peppermint
Peppermint is our absolute favorite go-to when we feel a headache coming on! This has been a popular choice among many when dealing with headaches or migraines because it contains menthol. We all know and love the minty scent and cool feeling associated with menthol, but did you know that it can actually help to ease tension in the muscles and soothe pain? It’s also great at helping to stimulate circulation which can increase blood flow and help to relieve symptoms associated with headaches. Best of all, using it couldn’t be easier and it’s minty scent smells fantastic!
How to Use It:
Thievery
We could go on for DAYS about our love for Thievery! This blend of cinnamon, clove, eucalyptus, rosemary, and lemon is the perfect combination to help you get well and stay well! We’ve already talked about the benefits of eucalyptus, but did you know that cinnamon oil also has a wide range of wellness-boosting properties including potential antifungal and antibacterial properties?!
While research is currently limited, many people swear by the amazing benefits of this unique blend of oils! Personally, we love the warm, uplifting scent that Thievery is known for. It’s perfect for daily use to step up your wellness game and to lift your spirits!
How to Use It: There are so many great ways to take advantage of the benefits of Thievery!
Elderberry
Elderberry has absolutely been having its moment in recent years! With the trend towards natural wellness, many are discovering the potent (and delicious!) benefits of this amazing berry. It’s absolutely packed full of vitamins and antioxidants that can help to boost the immune system and promote wellness! It can be great for daily use to help your body keep unwanted germs at bay!
One of the most popular forms for taking elderberry is as a syrup. It’s easy to find many options in drug stores, but we recommend finding locally made batches that are minimally processed and don’t include a bunch of unrecognizable ingredients! We carry small batches of elderberry seasonally at our Monroe location so if you’re local, stop on by to check it out!
Oregano
Last but not least, this list would not be complete if we didn’t mention one of our most recent favorites, Oregano oil! Yep, you read that right! This powerful oil has been on a nearly meteoric rise in popularity lately as many discover its incredible benefits. Packed with Vitamin K and antioxidants, many have been reaching for this oil as part of their wellness toolkit. Although studies are ongoing in order to verify the health benefits, based on anecdotal evidence, it seems there may be something to this oil!
We will forever remain impressed with the incredible wonders of nature and hope that you feel empowered to take a few steps forward on your natural wellness journey! As always, be sure to use any products only as suggested and be sure to consult a healthcare professional if you have any concerns or underlying health issues! Stay well, friends!
Continue reading
In our modern, fast-paced world, many of us have come to wear “busy” as a badge of honor. We are constantly rushing from one thing to another, trying to knock out our never-ending to-do lists and wishing we had more hours in our days. Oftentimes we end up stretching ourselves so thin that our health and wellbeing start to suffer. As if that wasn’t bad enough, one of the first things we tend to give up when we’re overly busy is sleep. In fact, according to the Sleep Foundation, more than one third of US adults get less than 7 hours of sleep per night.
Sure, we’ve all heard that sleep is important but, if you’re like many of us, figuring out how to actually achieve a healthy and practical sleep routine seems more difficult than getting a toddler to eat their vegetables! It’s enough to make many of us give up on the dream of good sleep but what if I told you that sleep is actually a major key in maximizing productivity as well as keeping our brains and bodies healthy, and that with some small changes and the help of a few natural products you could transform your sleep hygiene? Sounds pretty good, right? Read on to learn more!
As it turns out, there are really 3 components to a healthy sleep routine.
Tips for Better Sleep:
Achieving a healthy sleep routine starts with figuring out exactly how much sleep you need. Having this information allows you to calculate what time you need to go to bed to get your desired amount of shut eye.
Since it can be difficult to transition from “on-the-go mode” to “sleep mode,” it can be extremely helpful to set a “wind-down” timer about 30 minutes prior to when you want to go to sleep. This timer signals that it’s time to turn off technology like phones and tv’s, opt for lamps rather than bright overhead lights, get into cozy pajamas, shower or bathe, brush teeth, start to cool your bedroom to create an ideal sleeping environment, etc.
This is a great time to start utilizing some natural products to help your body transition into a relaxed, restful state. Two of our favorite essential oils for this are Lavender and Frankincense.
Lavender
When it comes to boosting your sleep naturally, Lavender is one of the best and most popular choices to turn to! Chances are, just thinking about Lavender makes you feel a bit more calm, happy, and relaxed. Many of us have positive associations with this popular purple plant known for its sweet smell and soothing properties.
Lavender has been used for centuries as something of a natural medicine to help with a wide range of ailments from stomach aches to bug bites and so much more in between. Our ancestors knew the power of Lavender from experience, but in recent years it has been the subject of countless studies that have confirmed the science behind why it works so well.
One of its most popular uses is for helping with sleep. It has long been known for its ability to help individuals relax and more easily fall into a peaceful slumber. This is largely thanks to its anxiolytic (anxiety reducing) and sedative properties. Recent studies suggest that inhaling lavender can help send calming signals to the brain thanks to a compound found in the essential oil called linalool. As lavender works to quiet the brain and nervous system, our bodies naturally transition into a more relaxed state, priming us to fall more easily asleep. Some studies even suggest that lavender may play a role in increasing the amount of deep sleep we get, which is critical for helping to heal and restore our bodies as well as enhance our immune systems.
There are so many fun, simple ways to start adding Lavender into your evening routine. Here are some of our favorites!
Lavender Products:
Frankincense
Another fantastic essential oil known for helping to promote a good night’s sleep is Frankincense. This ancient oil is widely known as being one of the gifts brought to Jesus by the Wise Men, and its easy to see why it was such a highly valued commodity!
Frankincense comes from the resin of the Boswellia tree and has a unique scent. It contains warm, woodsy, and earthy tones with underlying hints citrus and spice. Nicknamed the “King of Oils,” Frankincense is known for an incredible range of benefits. Check out our Frankincense blog here to learn more!
Many people consider it to be a calming oil that helps to calm the mind and muscles, putting the body into a more relaxed state. The promotion of a state of calm, peace, and balance may help to promote better sleep in many individuals.
Frankincense Products
These natural essential oils are a great addition to any bedtime routine! Other simple, but effective, ways to help make sure you get your sleep schedule on track include avoiding caffeine after 3PM, utilizing blue light blocking glasses later in the day, trying out a sound machine, and making yourself a warm, relaxing bedtime tea!
Continue reading
Essential oils have become increasingly popular in recent years as many of us have begun looking for natural ways to enhance our health. As many of us are finding out, these age-old classics have been used throughout history for good reason… they work! It seems that when it comes to most common ailments, it’s safe to say, “there’s an oil for that!”. The popularity of oils like peppermint, lavender, and tea tree oil is unmistakable with people keeping these on hand for everything from headaches to bug bites to promoting a restful night’s sleep. However, there is one essential oil that has often been overlooked but is making a comeback. This oil is one that is so amazing it has been used for millennia, deemed “The King of Oils,” and is even mentioned in the Bible as one of the gifts given to Jesus at His birth! Yep, we’re talking about frankincense!
For many of us, our familiarity with frankincense begins and ends with the knowledge that it was one of the 3 gifts given to Jesus by the wise men, along with gold and myrrh. This fact alone should give us a major clue about just how valuable frankincense is. In those days, it was considered to be every bit as valuable as gold thanks its medicinal benefits. It was one of the most valued commodities in ancient times making it a fitting “gift for a King”. With all of these kingly references and a recent rejuvenated interest in frankincense, we thought it would be fun to dive in and tell you a little bit more about this legendary oil and exactly why it is so beloved!
Frankincense Origins
Frankincense is also known as “olibanum” and comes from the hardened sap (resin) of the Boswellia family of trees which is native to areas of Africa, India, and the Middle East. Boswellia trees have extremely thin bark which seep out resin when shallow cuts are made in the bark. The resin is then extracted from the tree and steamed in order to make the essential oil.
There are several different types of Frankincense including some of the most popular:
The chemical compositions of each of these is slightly different, however our favorite, Boswellia Carterii contains 3 powerful chemical constituents:
Frankincense has been known to have wide-ranging benefits for everything from hair and skin care to stress relief and other health benefits. Many people keep it on them at all times thanks to its extreme versatility. While frankincense is great on its own, it is also known as a great “messenger oil,” helping to increase the effectiveness of other essential oils when used in tandem with them. In fact, there’s a popular phrase that exists in the essential oil world that says “When in doubt, use frankincense”. With so much “buzz” around this oil, let’s take a look at some of the fabulous benefits of frankincense!
Frankincense Benefits
Frankincense essential oil is thought to have a wide variety of therapeutic properties that are the result of the incredible chemical components that make up the oil including limonene and alpha pinene. Limonene is known for helping to uplift mood and energize while pinene is known as an excellent anti-inflammatory, making it wonderful for use on the skin. Thanks to the incredible chemical makeup of frankincense oil, it has benefits for everything from skin care to aromatherapy and more!
Frankincense for the Skin:
The anti-inflammatory properties of this unique oil don’t just hold promise for those suffering from inflammatory conditions, but they also are a major benefit to those dealing with a wide variety of skin concerns. Frankincense applied topically is something akin to liquid gold for your skin! It’s the best kept beauty secret that has been quietly handed down for centuries, yet so many have never heard of it!
In fact, it’s rumored that Cleopatra herself used it on her skin as part of her beauty regimen!
So, what makes it so great? In addition to its anti-inflammatory properties, frankincense also has astringent, antioxidant, antiseptic, and antibacterial properties making it ideal for using on the skin. It’s widely known as one of the best anti-aging oils available due to its ability to promote cell regeneration.
Several studies have shown promising results when it comes to helping with scars and stretch marks as well. It’s a wonderful choice if you deal with excess oil, splotchiness, or uneven skin tone as it may be able to help with:
When using frankincense oil topically, it’s important to make sure that it’s blended with a high quality carrier oil. Our Frankincense Roll-On contains 100% pure Frankincense Essential Oil which is blended with our high quality Squalane Oil as the carrier oil. This easy-to-apply oil is perfect for keeping in your purse, pocket, or car!
Frankincense for Aromatherapy
The warm, earthy, and slightly spicy tones of frankincense are familiar, soothing, and super relaxing when used as part of aromatherapy. This oil can help to ease the mind and relieve stress which helping to elevate mood. It’s great for using on those busy days when life feels overwhelming and you need something to help ease your mind!
Our Frankincense Essential Oil is USDA Organic Certified and is perfect for using in your diffuser for some aromatherapy or adding to lotions or other personal care products! The warm and uplifting aroma will make you wonder why you never tried this amazing oil before!
Continue reading
