Tee Tree Oil; Natural Relief from Eczema

Eczema is a skin condition that is most common with newborns, but adults suffer from it as well.  It is still uncertain what causes this inflammation of the skin that leaves the skin in a rash like state, causing severe itching.  Its appearance is mainly a redness color, with outbreaks of lesions that can become encrusted and scaly.

If you or your child suffer from eczema, and have been prescribed a medicated cream to relieve the symptoms but are just not comfortable about applying steroid creams and synthetic chemicals on your child, and or yourself, see if your doctor would recommend trying a natural treatment such as Tea Tree oil.

We have had several customers comment that by just using a goat’s milk lotion with Tee Tree oil had relieved them from eczema symptoms.  The amount of Tee Tree oil in these lotions is very small; however you should still consult your doctor for treating eczema with Tee Tree oil, for it is known to have some side effects.  Some may be allergic to the cineole in the oil, and it has been recommended not to use Tee Tree oil while breast feeding or if you are pregnant.  Just because something is natural does not mean that it is free from all side effects.  We are all unique and our bodies react differently, which it is why it is always wise to consult with your physician before trying any new method of treatment.

Krill Oil, A Great Source Of Omega-3

In a recent post I had mentioned about the antioxidant properties of goat’s milk soap, having vitamins A and E and how such antioxidants fight off free radicals.  I continued to mention the best food sources of antioxidants and the availability of such antioxidants in dietary supplements such as Krill oil.  Krill oil is not only a great source of antioxidants, but omega-3 fatty acids as well, which the two of these properties are extremely important incorporating into our daily diets for a healthier well being.

The best source of omega-3 has been known to come from fish, particularly salmon, which in a perfect world would be true.  We should be able to receive all the proper nutrients were suppose to be getting from all our foods; however due to many manmade interferences much of our food has either been altered or contaminated.  This is why nutritional supplements have become so necessary in our diets.  

I use to think it was foolish to spend money on vitamins and dietary supplements if you eat healthy.  Even if you do maintain a healthy diet, you still may be lacking many of the nutrients that you should be receiving.  Much of this depends on how the food is cooked and where it came from.  One example would be the recent discovery of nutrients being robbed from foods that are cooked in microwaves.

It has been advised by the FDA and the EPA now that we limit the amount of fish we eat due to high levels of mercury, and other industrial pollutants such as PCBs, heavy metals and so forth.  This has led many to fish oil, and other sources of omega-3 such as flax seed to receive the amounts of Omega-3 that most of us are so deficient in.  Fish oil is a great source of Omega-3, and though I have read that Flax seed is a great natural source of Omega-3, I have also read that there could be direct relations to prostate cancer, so I would like to research that a bit more before I can base an opinion; however I have just discovered Newand Improved Krill Oil from Dr. Mercola,  and would like to share what I believe to be an amazing discovery.

What Are Krill?

Krill are tiny shrimp like creatures that cover the oceans floor deep in the Antarctic waters.  There is absolutely no need to worry about over harvesting krill, for it is said that  krill make up the largest biomass on earth along with plankton, making them a very renewable resource.  Krill oil is known to support a healthy heart, blood sugar health, healthy joints, brain and nervous system development, cholesterol, blood lipid health, healthy skin, healthy liver and much more.

I encourage all my friends, family, clients, and readers to check out New and Improved Krill oil and find out for themselves, by reading the articles and watching the video of Dr. Mercola explaining all the amazing health benefits in greater detail.  I am sure once you have done research and have started adding krill oil to your diet you too will want to shout it from the roof tops and letting all that you come in contact with of this wonderful and very much needed supplement.

Goat Milk Soaps Have Natural Antioxidant Properties

Antioxidants are nutrients found in certain foods that help fight off free radicals which are harmful molecules believed to contribute to many health conditions.  They are metabolic byproducts that cause damage to both cells and tissues throughout the body.  Without getting into a complete Physiology/Chemistry 101 lesson, it is my understanding that free radicals are simply, a molecule or atom with unpaired electrons making them unstable, attacking the nearest molecule available to steal its electron.  When that molecule has had one of its electrons taken it has now become a free radical, which this eventually leads to a chain reaction leading to the disruption of living cells.

Most common sources of antioxidants come from food sources such as fruits vegetables, and plants.  Vitamins A and E are both high in antioxidants, as well as flavonoids, which are commonly found in plants, vegetables, fruits, algae, tea, red wine and can also be found in dietary supplements such as Krill oil.  These are all great sources of antioxidants but did you know that goat milk has antioxidant properties as well?  

Goat milk has both vitamins A and E, which help destroy free radicals generated in the skin by the pollutants that synthetic chemicals allow to pass through.  Vitamin A is best known for healthy eyesight, and keeping the skin healthy and vitamin E by itself is said to be a very effective antioxidant, and when combined with vitamin C is known to be extremely effective in destroying free radicals.  

This is one of the many great health advantages goats milk has to offer and why choosing skin care products such as goat milk soaps is a wise, and healthy decision.

Protect Your Skin From Bacteria, With Goat’s Milk.

Our skin has a protective layer of acidic oils that act as a barrier and filter, protecting the inside of the body from the external environment.  This layer is called the acid mantle.  The skins PH is between 4 to 5.5, making it acidic.  It is this acid layer that protects the skin from bacteria, killing the bacteria so that it cannot damage the skin.  

Most commercial soaps are a strong alkaline that strip the acid mantle from the skin, making it easy for bacteria to attack.  Goats milk however has a PH that is very similar to that of the skins natural PH making goat’s milk soaps a very popular soap that neutralize the effects of bacteria that cause skin infections.  The very best way you can maintain your acid mantle is to use skin care products such as goat milk soap that are PH balanced.

Health News You Can Rely On.

As you may have noticed by now if following this blog regularly, we are very passionate about natural skin care products and healthier alternatives for a healthier lifestyle.  Not only are we passionate about healthier products, but extremely passionate about sharing the truth, and to pass on the knowledge, research and experience we have obtained to as many as possible.

If you are a first time visitor here, you will notice that a lot of research goes into putting together the quality content that is posted on this site on a daily basis.  Our goal is to share and to inform of the subtle dangers that are hidden in many of the products our households use and consume on a daily basis, such as what we use to wash our bodies, clean our homes, and feed our families with.  It is not only our desire to share what we have learned, but to provide you with dependable resources as well.  

There is a lot of information available on the web today, many of it is agenda driven, and unfortunately at times misleading information.  Where we get our information is just as important as to choosing to live a healthier lifestyle using safer products.  This is why I, along with millions of others have signed up for Dr. Mercola’s health newsletter.  We feel that it is very important that as we find reputable resources such as Dr. Mercola, to share these valuable resources to as many as we possibly can.

Dr. Mercola’s newsletter has become the worlds most trusted, and largest growing newsletters available.  Mercola.com has just recently made the top ten blogs to follow for health consciousness.  With over three decades of medical experience Dr. Mercola has dedicated his life to informing the world of alternative health solutions.  When you sign up for this FREE newsletter you will be up to date on current health topics typically before they hit main stream media, and equipped with an abundance of nutritional information, that will ultimately help you achieve a healthier lifestyle.

Click Here to Sign up For Dr. Mercola's Free Newsletter.

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Goat Milk Soap vs. Acne!

Goat’s milk helps rejuvenate the skin in many ways, and is becoming more recognized for treating acne as well.  While the natural proteins and lactic acids contribute to healthier younger looking skin, the high amounts of fat, iron and vitamins play significant roles in healing the skin.  With these essential vitamins A, B, C, D, and a PH level that is close to the skins PH level, goat milk helps neutralize the effects of bacteria that cause skin infections such as acne.

Not only does goat milk soaps offer antibacterial benefits but anti-inflammatory as well.  Though goat milk is not a cure all for all acne cases, it can relieve dry itchy skin, and prevent future swelling and redness caused from acne by creating a protective layer called the (acid mantle) on the skin, which neutralizes the microbes, such as viruses, contaminants and bacteria.

Amazing skin benefits of Calendula infused oil.

Physicians have been writing about Calendula and its amazing benefits for the skin for a very long time.  The dried flowers of the plant were traditionally used in soups and stews to fight off illness, which is where it got the name Pot Marigold.  The name Calendula comes from the Latin word Calendae, meaning the first day of the month, as this plant can bloom every month of the year in its native climate.  Calendula is known for many health benefits but is most recognized for its effectiveness in healing skin problems, such as wounds, burns, insect bites, eczema, shingles and skin ulcers, to name a few.

Calendula can be taken internally as well as externally.  For internal use, Calendula can be used in salads, and to spice up meats and fish; it also can be made into a tea.  Externally, Calendula is used in lotion salves, creams, soaps and refined oil.  I use the Calendula that I grow in my garden in some of our goat’s milk soap, and have made infused  Calendula oil which we use in our lip balms and also keep it handy for medicinal purposes as well.

Some of the amazing benefits Calendula oil has on the skin are;

1.  Helps in healing wounds, cuts, bruises, scrapes, and inflamed skin.

2.  Nourishes and softens dry chapped skin.

3.  Is known to have antiseptic, anti fungal, and anti bacterial properties.

4.  Very effective for treating sun burn, minor burns, acne, eczema, inflamed skin, and rashes.

5.  Is very helpful in treating athletes foot.

6.  Is used for relieving diaper rash.

7.  Is known to relieve bug bites and stings.

These are just seven reasons why this wonderful plant as earned the name among herbalist, “Mother of the Skin”.  This is a must have plant in the garden, not only will it aid you and your household with wonderful medicinal and culinary values but will bring beauty to the garden all season long.

To make your own Calendula infuse oil is very simple the following article tells you exactly how to do it.

http://hubpages.com/hub/Calendula-Mother-of-the-Skin

Why Milk Based Soaps Are So Popular!

Milk based soaps such as goat milk soap, are becoming more and more popular as many of us realize the dangers of toxins that are found in our day to day products; such as soaps, shampoo’s, cosmetics, and the list goes on.  As many consumers are doing their research and searching for safe products, old skin care secretes have been resurfacing, such as the amazing benefits goat milk has for the skin.

• Unlike cow’s milk and water, goat milk has more vitamins and triglycerides (fats) and contains vitamins A, B, C & D as well as protein, calcium, potassium and magnesium.
• Goat milk has a pH level that is closest to that of our skin making it a very gentle and safe product to use on the skin.
• Goat milk is great for dry skin, because its short-strand protein structure allows it to be easily absorbed into the skin.
• Those who suffer from psoriasis and eczema are often recommended by dermatologists goat’s milk skin care products.

Are Bath Salts Safe for Jacuzzi Tubs? Thursday, February 4, 2010

After learning so much about the wonderful therapeutic benefits bath salts have, I really wanted to put them to the test, and soak my aching body in the tub with a homemade bath salt, after a long hard day of work.  I have soaked my feet in Epsom salt before, but never had I soaked my entire body in these bath salts with a mixture of essential oils.

One of my concerns was, somewhere I had heard that you shouldn’t use these salts in your Jacuzzi tub, that it could cause damage to the jets and motor, causing all sorts of problems like corrosion and build ups.    The only bath tub I have in my house is a jet tub by Jacuzzi.  So I emailed the company asking if bath salts do indeed cause these problems, and this is the answerer I received back.

” You may use salts or any other bath additive provided that they are water soluble. However, you may want to stay clear from using oil based products as they tend to cause more of a buildup”.

So just the salts by themselves OK, but then I had asked what if you are using a blend of Epsom salt, sea salts and essential oil.

“Essential oils should be used sparingly or you can use the Systems Clean product more often to sanitize the pipes and help prevent a buildup”.

Systems Clean is a two part plumbing system cleaner made for whirlpool baths. It will minimize the build-up of residuals from soap scum, bath and body oils, and dirt from inside of the  pipes, pumps, fittings and circulation system.

I am going to give it a shot!  Has anybody had any problems using such mixtures of bath salts in their jet tubs and or does anybody have any other recommendations for cleaning and maintenance on these jet tubs?

Goat’s Milk, Nature's Moisturizer

Many who suffer from sensitive skin turn to goat’s milk skin care products for many reasons.  For one goat milk soap does not contain any harsh ingredients such as alcohol, petroleum, or preservatives that are commonly found in commercial soaps and skin care products.  These ingredients are known to cause all sorts of skin irritations.  

Goat’s milk has many health benefits, but when it comes to the skin it is most recognized for its moisturizing ability.  Goat’s milk has a PH that is very similar to human skin.  This helps protect the skin from bacteria and chemicals that we come in contact on a daily basis, and is what makes goat milk soaps   highly moisturizing and non-irritating for just about every skin type.

Goat milk is also a natural source for alpha-hydroxy acids.  These acids help exfoliate the skin  by breaking down the glue holding dead skin cells together, rejuvenating the skin, making it feel smoother and look much younger, and healthier.

Why Commercial Soaps Cost Less.

The average price for handcrafted soap bars such as goat milk soaps, range between one – two dollars per once, depending on the quality of ingredients.  Many shoppers find it difficult spending over four dollars for a single bar of soap when they can spend much less and get much more.  This leaves many consumers asking the question why handcrafted soap bars are so much more expensive than commercial soaps.  There are several reasons commercial soaps are much cheaper then handcrafted soaps, and here are just a few.

1. The ingredients used in commercial soaps are cheaper and more available then natural ingredients.  Synthetic fragrances can be made in a lab, while essential oils need to be taken from a plant, which can be much more time consuming and more costly.  Even if a commercial product is advertising organic and natural, you should investigate the amount of that natural ingredient is actually in that particular product.  It is my understanding that labeling laws only require very small percentages of a natural ingredient to be labeled as natural.
2. Commercial soaps use harsh ingredients like alcohol, petroleum, esters, low grade oils, fillers, and detergents and so forth to make products quicker and cheaper.  Many of these ingredients are the main cause for skin irritation.  Yes they will decrease the cost of production but most often increase the probability of many health issues.
3. Commercial soap companies take the most expensive ingredient Glycerin that naturally occurs during the soap making process, and sell it to pharmaceutical and cosmetic companies to make expensive moisturizers.  So if you think you are saving lots of money using a synthetic soap bar, you’re most likely taking that savings, and using it on an expensive lotion or cream to relieve the dry itchy skin from that cheaper soap bar.

It is very interesting to me how we determine what something is worth.  Many consumers will spend lots of money on nutritional supplements, organic foods, and pay expensive membership fees to gyms, but find it difficult to spend four dollars on a bar of soap that actually has just as much influence on your overall well being as diet and exercise.  Our skin is permeable and what we put on it will absorb into our body.  You may be spending a little bit more when buying natural skin care products, but most likely you will be buying less, and treating you, and your family to a much safer and healthier product.

The Growing Popularity of Goat Milk.

Goat's milk has been gaining more and more popularity, not just in the natural skin care industry, but the food market as well.  Goat's milk soap will not only work wonders on the skin, but also has many other health benefits.  Goat's milk products are easier to digest; they have no preservative, no growth hormones or antibiotics, and are Gluten free.  One out of ten people who are allergic to cow milk can drink goat's milk.  Goat's milk is easier on sensitive stomachs and is higher in calcium than cows milk and lower in cholesterol, and lactose.

What was once considered the poor mans cow, is slowly staring to become a more desirable animal to have for producing milk.  A single goat can produce enough milk for an entire family.  For thousands of years man has been shepherding goats, and most likely was the primary source of milk way back then.  Goat milk is used for many products such as soaps, lotions, milk, cheese, yogurt, and so forth, which are all great reasons for the many who desire to become more self sufficient, turn to the goat for all their dairy needs.

Save Money, and Make Your Own Laundry Soap.

Many of us are trying to find ways to cut back on spending, and save some extra money, perhaps to pay off some debt, or to save for that vacation you've been planning.  For some, like myself have decided to brew their own coffee instead of buying it on the go, for others it could be going out to eat less, saving coupons and so forth.  One great thing you and your family can do, to not only save money, but also introduce a much healthier and much safer product that the entire family uses, is to make your own laundry soap.

Making your own laundry soap is simple and very affordable.  You have several recipes to choose from by doing a simple search on the internet, or finding a recipe book on making your own natural products.  You not only know what is in your soap, but you have control.  Many store bought detergents have harsh ingredients that can cause skin irritations.  This is a major reason why new Mothers are recommended to wash their infants cloths, and blankets in a mild soap instead of a detergents.

We use this recipe and get between 60- 70 loads per batch for less than $1.00.  All you need is a 2 gallon bucket with a lid, 1/3 bar of Fels Naptha, ½ cup of washing soda, and a ½ cup of borax powder.  

Your Fels Naptha will need to be graded and have 6 cups of water added to it in a sauce pan and heat until soap begins to melt.  Then you will need to add 1/2 cup washing soda and 1/2 cup of borax and stir until it has dissolved.  Now remove from heat and pour 4 cups of hot water into your bucket, add your soap mixture and stir.  Add 1 gallon plus 6 cup of water and stir.  Now all you need to do is let it sit for 24 hours and it will gel up. 

When it is ready to use it will have a gel like clumpy appearance; you can use a large wooden spoon to stir the gel substance into liquid form and use only 1/2 cup per load.

Have You Found the Perfect Shampoo for You?

Just like everyone’s skin is different, and reacts to both natural and synthetic ingredients differently, so is our hair and scalp.  There are hundreds of different shampoos and conditioners promising thicker, fuller, and healthier hair.  Some of these shampoos might work wonders for one person and actually cause even worse symptoms for another.  Many of these shampoos are full of harmful ingredients that could also lead to many other health concerns.

If you have not found that perfect shampoo for you, might I suggest first keeping it pure and simple?  Rather than falling for the next big advertising ad that is promising the greatest hair on earth, why not try using a solid shampoo bar first.  I think you would be amazed what real natural ingredients such as rosemary and lavender, and oils like jojoba and Castor, will have on your scalp and your hair.  Many hair and scalp problems such as dandruff have been associated with harsh ingredients found in many shampoos and conditioners.  Your hair may just be crying out for something a little more natural.

Why Using Natural Sea Sponges is a Smart Decision

Ever notice how quickly you go through dish sponges?  They fall apart and get real nasty looking within just a couple of week’s time.  Many of these synthetic sponges are also filled with unnecessary chemicals such as Triclosan.   Which if you are not at all concerned about carcinogens being absorbed into your skin, I guess there is no issue; however if you are trying to make every effort to put only what is safe and natural on your body, often overlook is this one product, “the sponge”.  Maybe the amount of exposure of the chemicals from these sponges are not enough to cause any serious health issues, but what if  they are, and why not use a sponge that is chemical free, that last much longer.

I have been using natural sea sponges for years now and, just amazed how long a natural sponge will last.  I have not had to replace my natural sea sponge from my kitchen sink for over 3 months, and it still looks and feels as good as it did when I first started using it.  Natural sea sponges have enzymes in them that prohibit the growth of mold, mildew and bacteria.  Depending on which sea sponge you choose, they can last as long as 10 years if properly treated.  

Harvesting natural sea sponges by no means interrupts the coral reef at all; the ocean naturally contributes to the harvest of sponges as well through tides and currents.  These sponges are harvested by professional sponge divers that incorporate crop rotations. Where sponges have been cut, grow back even thicker and healthier than before.  Kind of like dead heading and pruning plants, this stimulates new growth.

Over 90% of the world’s natural sea sponges come from Tarpon Springs Florida, right in our own backyard, keeping many local citizens employed during the economic challenges we are currently faced with.  So not only are you receiving great health benefits, durability, and saving money when using natural sea sponges, but you are also buying  local products supporting local business.

Five Great Reasons to Try Felted Soap Bars.

A felted soap bar simply is a soap bar that is felted in wool, most likely sheep or alpaca.  We use sheep’s wool that has no color dyes, from a neighboring friend’s sheep farm.  If you have never tried a felted soap bar before here are five great reasons to give one a try.

1.    A handcrafted therapeutic soap bar will last much longer if it is felted.  Because of the natural Glycerin in handmade soaps, they must not be left in standing water, for they will turn to mush very quickly.  It is very important to place soap bars on soap trays to dry out after use.  Felted soap bars should be placed on a soap tray as well, but will not turn to mush as quickly as an un-felted soap bar.

2.    You are getting a wash cloth and soap bar all in one great package!  Once the felted bar has been soaked and begins to lather up, you have a wonderful natural wash cloth to bathe with.

3.    Skin exfoliation!  A felted soap bar is a great for mild skin exfoliation, which is very important to incorporate on a weekly basis to help shed unwanted dead skin cells.

4.    Felted soap bars are not slippery like a regular soap bar that can be easily slipped and dropped in the shower.

5.    They make excellent gifts, especially for those hard to shop for ones in our lives.  Not too many people have a felted soap bar, nor have they ever heard of them.  Most likely they will appreciate the creativity and be intrigued to put it to use.

Benefits of Bath Salts.

A great alternative for pampering your aches and pains and having your skin feel great by not having to spend an entire day at an expensive Spa would be to soak in your own bath tub with bath salts.  Don’t get me wrong, if I had a free pass, and the time I would love to be massaged and pampered at a luxurious Spa, but for just a few dollars you could buy or make you own homemade bath salts and relax enjoying many therapeutic benefits leaving you feeling as if you had just left that expensive Spa.

Epsom salt baths have many benefits, not only do they leave your skin feeling silky and smooth, but release toxins from your body, increase blood circulation and relieve aches and pains.  Epsomsalt is actually not a salt but a mineral compound of magnesium sulfate, which is known to contribute to many health benefits.  In the past century due to the change in our diets, our magnesium levels have dropped over 50 %, we just do not have as healthy of a diet as our ancestors did.  Which is why taking nutritional supplements is important to our well being.  Because of the permeability of the skin, soaking in Epsom salt is an excellent way to get those magnesium levels up, and making your body feel great while doing so.

Safer Products, Safer Environment!

Believe or not when you use natural skin care products you’re not only reaping many health benefits, but are being a good steward to the land in which you live.  Also if you use, or make your own natural household cleaners you are contributing to a cleaner and safer environment as well.  Essentially synthetic products do get disposed down toilets, and shower & sink drains, which get into our water supply, and if not recycling, empty bottles and packaging are disposed into the trash, that will eventually be either buried or burned, releasing the remaining harmful chemicals into the earth and air we breathe.

By using natural products like a shampoo bar or making laundry soap, you are reducing the amount of plastic containers that have to be constantly disposed, and also what your putting on your skin and down the drain is safer for both you and the environment.  So if you are a loyal natural product user, stand tall and be proud you are not only keeping you and your household safe, but contributing to a safer place for all of us to live.

Why to Avoid Petrolatum in Skin Care.

Petrolatum is one of the many chemicals to avoid when selecting all natural skin care products.  This chemical is often used in lip products that are marketed for protecting your lips from sunburn.  The sad truth is that Petrolatum is a mineral oil jelly, which actually causes the very symptoms the product is advertised to alleviate.  Petrolatum promotes sun damage and interferes with the body’s natural moisturizing mechanism, contributing to dry skin and chapping.  If you are in search of a natural lip balm with real medicinal properties, make sure it is not petroleum based, but instead made from natural ingredients such as Shea butter, beeswax,  coconut, and jojoba to just name a few.

Top Ten Skin Benefits of Goat’s Milk.

Goat’s milk products have been highly sought out for its healing and moisturizing properties for centuries.  Here are the top 10 reasons why many have made the switch and have remained loyal to using goat’s milk skin care products.

1.     Goat’s milk consists of natural emollients and triglycerides, which acts as a natural moisturizer.
2.    Is full of nutrients and vitamins such as C, B1, B6, B12, and E.
3.    Has a PH level that is similar to the PH level of our skin, which helps protect the skin from invading bacteria and chemicals.
4.    Cleopatra was known for her healthy skin, had bathed regularly in goat’s milk.
5.    Has alpha-hydroxy acids which are known to soften the skin by breaking down the glue  that holds dead skin cells together.
6.    Naturally made goat’s milk soap bars are free from harmful chemicals, and are very mild and safe to use on many types of skin.
7.    Goat’s milk skin care products can reduce wrinkles and delay skin aging signs.
8.    Known to reduce skin inflammation, soothing dry and damaged skin.

9.    Goat’s milk is less allergenic.
10.    Goat’s milk has just recently been proven to effectively treat acne.

What is Dandruff, and how you can treat it naturally?

Seborrheic dermatitis, known as dandruff; is the shedding of dead skin cells from the scalp, which can cause constant itching, flaking, and embarrassment.  What causes dandruff and how can it be treated?  Dandruff is not a disease, it is not contagious and it will not cause baldness.  There is no known cause to dandruff, but some research suggests that yeast which often lives on the skin, Malassezia furfur, may play a role.  Others believe that harsh ingredients in many shampoos can cause the scalp to become inflamed and shed large amounts of dead skin cells as well.  

If you have a serious problem with dandruff, there are dozens of products out there that claim to treat the symptoms; however make sure to read all the ingredients.  Though they may treat the dandruff you could be exposing your body to other unnecessary chemicals.  There are many natural treatments for treating dandruff.  I recommend first changing your shampoo to a milder shampoo, such as a natural shampoo bar.  Ingredients such as rosemary and lavender have proven to stimulate the scalp and oils such as jojoba and castor keep the scalp moisturized.

Why you should get your vitamin D levels checked.

Using natural skin care products, eating healthy and drinking plenty of water are all crucial for not only healthy, younger looking skin, but your overall health as well.  Did you know that the sun is just as important for your body?  Our body naturally obtains vitamin D from the sun through UVB rays, and self regulates the amount it needs through the skin.  When we live in areas that experience the cold winter seasons we obviously are not exposed to as much sun as one who lives in Florida or Hawaii.  It is very important for our body to receive minimally 10-15 minutes of sun light on our bare skin per day, which does not work through windows such as your office or car; you actually have to be outside, or on a safe tanning bed with UVB exposure.

Did you ever wonder why we do not experience many colds and flu during the summer time?  Many say it is because we spend more time indoors where germs are easily spread, but recent science suggests that it is most likely due to the lack of vitamin D.  Did you know that as many as 85 % of us are deficient in vitamin D.  Vitamin D is vital for healthier skin, heart, respiratory, immune system, hearing, and much more, such as the possibility of protection against cancer.

It is becoming more and more evident as recent research unveils the importance of this wonderful vitamin and the effects it has on the human body, that everyone get there vitamin D levels checked by their doctor.  Unlike receiving vitamin D naturally through the skin, if taken orally the body cannot regulate the proper amount it needs.  There is no one size fits all pill.  There are many factors such as weight and genetics that will determine the proper amount of Vitamin D supplement that is needed.

Dry Brushing

The epidermis, which is the outer layer of skin, shed’s millions of dead skin daily.  To help keep your skin healthy it is important to help remove some of those dead skin cells from your body by exfoliating the skin.  One form of skin exfoliation is dry body brushing.

Dry body brushing is brushing your body with a brush that has natural fiber bristles.  Make sure to avoid nylon bristles for they can irritate the skin, and when choosing a brush it is also recommended to have a long handle to get those hard to reach spots.

You will want to dry brush before showering while your skin is dry. Always brush toward your heart. Brush each part starting with you feet and working your way up. Brush lightly with a few stokes especially on tender areas. You do not want to brush too hard; doing so will irritate the skin. When brushing your back, come up and over the shoulders and around the neck.  Once you have completed dry brushing your entire body you then rinse off in the shower.  It is recommended to change the temperature on the water from hot to cold, to stimulate blood circulation.

When you get out from the shower make sure to massage your skin with a good moisturizer such as a goat’s milk lotion, and always remember to wash your brush with warm soapy water at least every two weeks, allowing it to dry completely before re-use.