Testosterone is an androgen, a male sex hormone, that stimulates the development of secondary sexual characteristics as boys grow into men. The growth of body hair and the deepening of voices is all because of testosterone. Not to mention, it helps boys put on muscle as they go through adolescence. Testosterone is mainly made in the testicles and is essential for sperm production. 

Testosterone doesn’t only occur in men, though. Women have testosterone, just not as much as men do. Women produce testosterone in smaller amounts in the adrenal glands and ovaries. It affects sex drive, resilience, and ability to build muscle. Most women do not concern themselves with testosterone and tend to focus on estrogen. That said, it is a hormone that you can boost by eating certain foods. 

Men and women benefit from testosterone in myriad ways, but it primarily helps build healthy bones and muscles. It also affects muscle strength and the distribution of fat. Testosterone may even aid cognitive function, support mood, and enhance energy levels. 

Why Should Women Have Testosterone? 

Testosterone, in healthy ranges, can help the body repair and heal connective tissue, including bones, ligaments, tendons, skin, and nails. Healthy testosterone levels can help reduce the risk of osteoporosis as women age, while also influencing joint recovery. There are moments in life when women produce less testosterone, for example, before and during menopause. 

Adrenal gland function can also influence testosterone production. A stressed out or worn out person may not be able to produce enough testosterone. Cortisol that rushes through the body takes a toll on the adrenal glands. Being in a constant fight-or-flight state can deplete repair hormones like testosterone. For this reason, the healthier and more resilient the adrenal glands are, the easier it is for them to produce testosterone. 

Symptoms Of Low Testosterone In Women

Women who have low testosterone levels or testosterone deficiency may experience: 

• Fatigue (including a drop in energy levels despite adequate sleep)
• Mood changes (such as irritability and depression, in some cases)
• Weight gain (because low testosterone can lead to increased body fat, even to the point of obesity)
• Cognitive changes (some women may struggle to concentrate and experience memory difficulties)
• Decreased muscle mass (maintaining muscle is difficult with low testosterone levels)
• Reduced libido (a very common symptom in women with low testosterone)

If you are a woman and find that you can relate to the above symptoms, you may want to test your T levels. Women with T levels below 15 nanograms per deciliter have low T count. If you want to avoid supplements, the following nutrients from foods can help boost testosterone levels. 

Magnesium

Researchers note that magnesium may impact testosterone production by reducing oxidative stress. Studies suggest that magnesium works to increase testosterone levels. You can enhance testosterone production even more by increasing magnesium intake in combination with regular exercise.

Omega 3 Fatty Acids

Whether you are trying to boost testosterone levels or not, omega 3 fatty acids can benefit your health. Primarily found in fish and some plant-based sources, omega-3s can influence inflammation levels in the body. In some instances, supplementing with omega-3s for 12 weeks increased T levels. This was not the case for women supplementing with omega-3s.

Vitamin D

There are vitamin D receptors in the ovaries and adrenal glands, where testosterone is made in women. As vitamin D binds to these receptors, it can stimulate the ovaries and adrenal glands to produce testosterone. Additionally, getting enough vitamin D can help improve sleep quality. Poor sleep can actually reduce testosterone, so make sure to get vitamin D to support the body in these ways.

Antioxidants

According to research, antioxidants work to combat oxidative stress and protect cellular damage from free radicals. Oxidative stress can damage cells that influence testosterone production, such as those in the adrenal glands and ovaries. Antioxidants work to protect organs from damage and support their ability to produce testosterone. 

Testosterone-Boosting Foods

Focusing on whole foods and eliminating processed junk from your diet can make a world of difference to your overall health. Researchers confirm that a diet high in bread, pastries, dairy products, and desserts, in combination with a low intake of fruits, vegetables, lean protein, nuts, seeds, and whole grains, can inhibit healthy testosterone production. Here are some testosterone-boosting foods to aid your efforts. 

Pumpkin Seeds

Naturally rich in zinc, pumpkin seeds provide a vital nutrient necessary for testosterone production. They also contain phytosterols, which are plant compounds that act similarly to cholesterol. Phytosterols also work to support testosterone levels by influencing pathways involved in steroid hormone production. 

Leafy Greens

There are many reasons to get your daily dose of leafy greens. They are naturally rich in trace minerals and other compounds that promote overall health. Kale and spinach are great sources of magnesium, which as we explained earlier, is involved with testosterone production.

Pomegranate

Pomegranate arils (which people commonly refer to as seeds), are rich in antioxidants and polyphenols. Several studies indicate that pomegranate juice may help increase testosterone in both men and women. 

Onion

Naturally rich in flavonoids, onions may help increase testosterone production. Researchers note that the quercetin in onions has the potential to boost testosterone levels. The other nutrients in onions may help manage factors that lead to low T count, such as obesity and insulin resistance. 

Broccoli

Broccoli, a cruciferous vegetable, is another great green to add to your diet. It can help prevent the body from making bad estrogens. Indoles are the compounds that convert into diindolylmethane (DIM) during digestion. DIM may convert estrogen into less potent forms, reducing estrogen’s overall effects in the body.

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One of the primary concerns with prostate cancer is that the disease can progress to an advanced stage and become life-threatening. That is truly the case for most cancers, which is why medical experts stress the importance of early detection. They also harp on maintaining a healthy diet and lifestyle habits to reduce the risk of cancer. And new research further amplifies this point, showing that eating a diet rich in fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and nuts and seeds can reduce the risk of prostate cancer spreading. 

The study, which was recently published in JAMA Network Open, made an interesting discovery. Researchers noted that men with prostate cancer who consume a high amount of plant-based foods can cut their risk of cancer growth by nearly 50% compared to those who don’t eat a lot of plant-based foods. Consuming a predominantly plant-based diet has been associated with better prostate cancer-specific outcomes. It may also help reduce the risk of diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and overall mortality. Making small changes in your diet to focus on more plant-based foods can do more good than you know!

Plant-Based Diet May Control Prostate Cancer

The study involved more than 2,000 men who were at an average age of 65 years old at the start. They all had a diagnosis of non-metastatic prostate cancer, meaning it hadn’t spread to other parts of the body. Each participant completed a comprehensive diet and lifestyle questionnaire to provide details about their eating habits. 

During an average 6.5-year period, 190 participants experienced a progression in prostate cancer, and 61 died from prostate cancer-specific causes. Study authors then determined that the participants who consumed the highest amounts of plant-based foods experienced a 47% lower risk of prostate cancer spreading than the men who ate fewer plant-based foods.

Small Dietary Changes Can Make A Difference

It can be difficult to make the complete switch to plant-based, but you don’t have to. Ideally, you simply add more plant-based foods to your diet and if you consume meat, focus on lean protein that is high-quality. Study authors noted that in comparison to the lowest level of plant-based consumption, the highest meant eating 1.9 more portions of vegetables, 1.6 more servings of fruit, and 0.9 more servings of whole grains per day. 

What does that mean in relation to a plate of food? Well, a standard serving of fruit, for example, can be one medium apple, banana, orange, or pear. A half-cup of brown rice is a single serving of whole grains, while a half-cup of cooked or one cup of raw broccoli or carrots counts as a single portion of vegetables. People who eat higher quantities of whole grains, vegetables, and fruits on a regular basis also eat fewer animal-based foods, on average. That could mean that they eat fewer eggs, one less serving of dairy, and marginally less meat. And since a growing body of research indicates that eating more plant-based foods reduces the risk of prostate cancer, you may want to consider eating more of these foods. 

A Plant-Based Diet Offers Numerous Benefits

There have been many previous studies and reviews related to the potential protective effects of plant-based foods for prostate health. Why is a plant-based diet so beneficial for the prostate? Fruits and vegetables contain antioxidants and phytochemicals, which may prevent free radical damage that can harm cells. Animal-based foods, such as processed meats and red meat, are carcinogens, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). Consuming dairy products also increases the risk of worse prostate cancer outcomes. A plant-based dietary program helps you steer clear of harmful foods and shifts your focus to foods that help the body. 

Prostate Cancer Is Most Common Among Men In the United States

After skin cancer, prostate cancer is still the most common cancer among men in the United States. The American Cancer Society estimates that 299,010 new cases of prostate cancer will be diagnosed in 2024 alone; roughly 35,000 men will die from the condition. Even though six out of every 10 prostate cancers are diagnosed in men over the age of 65, dietary changes early on in life can make a big difference. 

It is never too late to make a dietary change. You don’t have to become a vegan straight away, but including more plant-based foods in your daily diet can help a lot. Incorporate more of these foods daily and try out one day of complete plant-based eating every week. Try for two days a week if you can! Greater consumption of plant-based foods may help reduce the risk of prostate cancer and improve overall quality of life.

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Suffering from erectile dysfunction (ED) or low libido? Do you want to naturally encourage optimal male reproductive health and stamina? Truthfully, ED affects 30 million adult men in the United States, so we don’t want a dark cloud of shame to surround this topic. Despite the prevalence of ED, many men feel that it is both difficult and embarrassing to discuss these problems with healthcare professionals. 

What Is Sword Vitality And How Can It Help?

Sword Vitality offers a couple all natural enhancement options for every man who is suffering from ED. The sole purpose of these products is to help men regain, maintain, and optimize their vitality and overall wellness. These products may help support a healthy libido and increase blood flow to the male reproductive organs. The two products that we offer men are: 

• Sword Vitality XXL Xtreme Cream: A unique blend of all-natural botanicals that are intended to help increase stamina and vitality. The cream is smooth and fast-acting, making it highly popular among our male customers. It contains essential amino acids that are potent for male maintenance.*
• Sword Vitality XXL Sharpener Xtreme Oil: Made up of a unique blend of oils, this oil can act as a natural lubricant. Use this oil with the 300-stroke method (click here for more information on that), to help awaken blood vessels to encourage circulation to the male reproductive organs. This oil may help improve stamina when practiced with the 300-stroke method.* 

Sword Vitality aims to arm its users with the tools and information to help unsheathe their swords. These male-targeted products may help build strength, stamina, and size without the use of traditional drugs or therapies that promise similar results. 

How To Treat Erectile Dysfunction

ED occurs when you experience limited blood flow to the penis. Determining the exact cause can help you find the most appropriate treatment. In certain instances, ED does have a physical cause, such as a circulatory issue or underlying health condition. In these instances, men primarily focus on boosting circulation via exercise, quitting smoking, and making dietary changes. Stress, depression, anxiety, performance anxiety, trauma, and other emotional or mental factors can contribute to ED. 

Many men experiment with natural and alternative remedies for ED, such as herbal remedies, acupuncture, relationship counseling, and more. It is important to understand that there may be potential risks associated with alternative remedies for ED. Should you want to experiment, though, our Sword Vitality products may help out your situation. Try them out today!

* The statements made regarding these products, and all alternative remedies, have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). These products are not intended to cure, treat, or prevent any disease. 

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To save you the time of reading this entire article to find out the answer, no, exercise does not cause erectile dysfunction (ED). In fact, research shows the opposite to be true, stating that lack of exercise contributes to ED. A 2018 review of various studies found that physical inactivity can cause ED. A separate review from six years prior in 2012 found that inactivity is a primary cause for many chronic illnesses. 

One of the reasons that lack of exercise is linked to ED is because of ED”s link to cardiovascular health. If you don’t exercise or live a sedentary lifestyle, you may experience decreased blood flow, which increases the risk of ED. Many studies confirm that regular physical activity improves symptoms in men with ED. A review of multiple studies found that weekly moderate to intense aerobic exercise helped improve ED. 

What Causes ED?

Stress, tiredness, or drinking alcohol are some of the typical causes of occasional or temporary ED. That said, ED can also be a side effect of common medications, such as:

• Sedatives
• Antidepressants
• Ulcer medications
• Blood pressure medications
• Appetite suppressants

If ED persists, it may be caused by one of the following conditions or procedures:

• Diabetes
• Heart disease
• Atherosclerosis
• Hormone problems
• High blood pressure
• High cholesterol
• Surgery for bladder cancer
• Injury to the penis, prostates, pelvis, or bladder
• Multiple sclerosis 
• Chronic kidney disease

Sports And ED

Although the research shows that exercise is beneficial for ED, some research suggests that certain sports may increase the risk of ED. A review from 2019 found a link between ED and sports with higher rates of head injuries, like American football. Additionally, football, basketball, volleyball, and other similar sports have been linked to an increased risk of varicocele. This is a condition that occurs when the veins in the scrotum become enlarged and produce low sperm/decreased sperm quality as a result. 

Bicycling And ED

A study from 2010 suggested that riding on a bicycle seat for long periods of time can compress nerves in the perineum. That reduces blood flow to the penis, which may increase the risk of ED. A more recent study from 2020 involved 3,000 cyclists. Study authors noted a positive correlation between cycling and ED after adjusting age and other coexisting/underlying conditions. Other research found that certain bicycle characteristics led to an increased risk of ED. People who used mountain bikes, for example, had a higher risk of ED than those who used road bikes. 

Should You Take Precautions For Exercising With ED?

People with ED can benefit from regular exercise, especially if you are physically active for 30 minutes per day. Walking, hiking, running, swimming, strength training, and sports are great forms of exercise. Although cycling is a great cardiovascular workout, make sure to take the following precautions if you decide to cycle:

• Avoid tilting the seat forward
• Select a wide seat with adequate padding
• Check that the seat height is correct, so that your legs don’t extend completely at the bottom of each pedal stroke
• Position the handlebars higher than the seat

Other precautions for exercising with ED:

• Take time to warm up and cool down
• Stay hydrated by drinking the right fluids
• Speak with a doctor about an appropriate exercise routine for you
• Avoid overexertion and ease up when necessary
• Avoid exercising in hot weather

Given the research, there is some evidence that associates an increased risk of ED and certain sports, such as cycling and football. There is currently no evidence, however, that suggests excessive exercise causes ED. Physical inactivity increases the risk of ED, so many health experts encourage daily movement to avoid these issues.

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Cologne can be hit or miss. It is a very common gift for men, especially fathers who enjoy wearing cologne or aftershave. Due to personal preference and powerful or varying scents, picking the right cologne can be tricky. Not to mention, most commercial colognes contain synthetic fragrances, which can include carcinogens, respiratory irritants, environmental toxins, and more harmful substances. 

Making your own cologne with all-natural essential oils ensures a product that you can use safely and confidently. Don’t worry, because essential oil colognes will not make you smell awful, or like you just stepped out of a wild animal’s cave. In fact, the cologne recipes in this article may help you smell like freedom, the wild, and volcanos. Well, to each their own regarding the scents!

Some Cologne Notes

It is helpful to understand a few notes before you mix up your essential oil blends. You need to understand fragrance notes, which are divided into three classes: top, middle, and base. The top note is the first scent you notice after application, but it is also the quickest to fade. That leaves you with the next lasting scent, the middle class. Finally, the bass class is the scent that lasts the longest. A general formula is 10-15% for the top note, 25-30% for the middle note, and 55-65% for the base note. You can adjust the ratios any way you please, but that is simply a suggested starting place.

Nightlife

Getting ready to have a night on the town? Apply this gentlemanly blend that has notes of citrus with a perfectly earthy smell of vetiver. Researchers state that the essential oils in this blend help to support immune function and promote positive feelings. The recipe is as follows:

• 3 drops of lemon essential oil (top note)
• 4 drops of cardamom essential oil (middle note)
• 4 drops of ylang ylang essential oil (middle note)
• 6 drops of vetiver essential oil (base note)

Earthy 

Crave the smell of the woods? This simple blend is great to apply for any time of day, as it helps you smell like a flannel-wearing, ax-yielding lumberjack. Frankincense and copaiba are great for reducing stress and anxiety, making this a great workday cologne. The recipe is as follows:

• 4 drops of lemongrass essential oil (top note)
• 6 drops of copaiba essential oil (middle note)
• 8 drops of frankincense essential oil (base note)

Outdoorsy

This is the go-to blend for anyone who loves the outdoors. Because this blend contains cedarwood essential oil, you’ll smell like you lathered yourself in pine trees. Don’t worry, though, because it has a citrusy zest, giving this blend a refreshingly manly scent. This recipe is as follows:

• 3 drops of lemongrass essential oil (top note)
• 3 drops of basil essential oil (middle note)
• 4 drops of cedarwood essential oil (base note)
• 6 drops of Douglas fir essential oil (base note)

Office

Great to wear during the workday, this blend of essential oils has beautiful notes of citrus and the woods. The essential oils help to ground your emotions, balance the mood, stimulate the brain, and promote focus. The recipe is as follows:

• 4 drops of wild orange essential oil (top note)
• 6 drops of sandalwood essential oil (middle note)
• 10 drops of frankincense essential oil (base note)

How To Make DIY Cologne

This is an easy method for a homemade spray cologne using the above essential oil blends. To make the spray cologne, use a glass spray bottle, the essential oils, vegetable glycerin, and witch hazel. 

Instructions:

• In a two-ounce glass spray bottle, combine the essential oils and 1/2 tsp of vegetable glycerin.
• Top off the rest of the bottle with witch hazel, screw on the top, and shake well. 
• Spray on the chest, wrist, or neck when ready to use and make sure to shake before each use.

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Everyone has a different sex drive. Some people are completely satisfied with occasional sexual intimacy, while others enjoy sex daily. Just like most things in life, your libido, or desire for sexual activity, can ebb and flow throughout your life. You may experience low libido or high libido at one point or another, which is completely natural. 

There is only one thing that matters about your sex drive being high or low: your opinion about it. As long as you are happy, your libido level is not something to worry about. If your interest in sexual activity is low and it bothers you or your partner, you may want to find out why the mood doesn’t strike you as often. There are various factors that influence your libido, and your body may be trying to tell you something if it is lower than usual. 

What Is Low Libido?

Low libido is characterized by a temporary or long-term decline in the frequency and/or intensity of previous desire for sex. No interest in any type of sex, a decrease in sexual fantasies or thoughts, or feeling unhappy or stressed about sexual desire can indicate low libido. A drop in sex drive is completely normal and very common. About one-fifth of the male population, and an even greater number of the female population, will experience low libido at some point in life. Continue reading to learn about causes of low libido and how you can remedy the situation.

You’re Taking Certain Medications

Your libido can take a dip if you take certain medications. Health experts explain that birth control pills can increase sex-hormone binding globulin, which acts like a sponge, soaking up other hormones that aid libido. Other forms of contraception can also decrease your sex drive as well, and they are:

• Progestogen-only birth control pill
• Depo-Provera injection
• Combined hormonal contraception, including combined pill, vaginal ring, or birth control patch
• Contraceptive implant

Other medications that may negatively affect sex drive include:

• Antipsychotics
• Blood pressure medications
• Antidepressants
• Chemotherapy drugs

If your medication is to blame for your low libido, consider talking with your doctor. Work with your doctor to find the right type of medication and dose that will help you, but won’t ruin your sexual desire. Certain antidepressants, for example, may help improve your sex drive!

You Are On Your Period

Your monthly cycle can influence your sex drive in a serious way. Hormones like estrogen and progesterone are at their lowest during your period, causing a dip in your libido. The decreased interest in sexual activity serves a purpose because you tend to have the highest libido around ovulation. If your libido is low during your period, it is most likely not a permanent issue. Once your cycle completes, your sexual desire will most likely return to whatever is normal for you.

You Exercise Too Much Or Not Little

Exercise makes you feel good because it naturally boosts endorphins, which are the body’s feel-good chemicals. Making exercise a part of your daily routine can support a healthy libido. In fact, research states that men who engage in regular physical activity have higher libidos, testosterone levels, and fertility. That connection may be associated with better overall mood because regular physical activity helps keep you at healthy weight. Failure to exercise can increase the risk of health complications, many of which can destroy your libido. The opposite may also be true, as too much exercise can sabotage your sex drive. Chronic endurance training can interfere with hormones that affect libido. 

If your libido is down and you don’t exercise a lot, consider moving a little more. Researchers note that a little exercise goes a long way for your libido. Just 10-15 minutes of exercise per day can be enough. Additionally, remember not to overdo it because there is such a thing as too much of a good thing. 

You Drink Or Smoke Too Much

A little wine may help you unwind, but too much imbibing can also decrease your sex drive. The Mayo Clinic notes that too much alcohol can decrease testosterone levels and lead to erectile dysfunction. The same applies for smoking, which can suppress testosterone and reduce blood flow, causing less pleasurable sexual arousal. Other recreational drugs may also negatively impact your sex drive. Substances can both lower testosterone levels and change the brain’s response to pleasure. Activities that you once enjoyed, like sex, may not feel as good as they used to. The simple fix is to cut back on your consumption, or stop altogether. When you limit your alcohol intake and quit smoking, your libido and overall health will benefit. 

You Lack Sleep

Sleep deprivation can negatively affect all aspects of your health, from brain and heart function to your libido. The body requires sleep to repair and function properly. If you’ve been exhausted, you know that you don’t function at your best. If you don’t sleep enough and you lack power and energy, sex is probably not your number one priority. Insufficient sleep has been linked to low libido and sexual arousal in both men and women, according to a 2017 study. If sleep is plaguing your libido, try to focus on getting seven to nine hours of sleep per night. Keep a consistent sleep schedule by going to bed and waking up at the same time each day. Make sure your bedroom is cool, dark and quiet, and turn off screens about two hours before bedtime.

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When you learn to make DIY products, consider your holiday gifts covered. Be it a bath bomb for Mother’s Day, a shaving butter for Father’s day, or candles for Christmas, DIY gifts are greatly appreciated. Depending on the holiday or birthday, you can fill a small basket with different homemade goods for that person. 

What is one of the most popular gifts that men receive on birthdays, Father’s Day, or Christmas? Cologne is very popular and it is a much better alternative to socks, underwear, or razors, even though those products are useful. Smelling great, however, is potentially the greatest gift of all. You may not have fragrances, alcohols, and other cologne ingredients on hand, but you can get your hands on masculine essential oils. There are essential oils that create more “manly” aromas than others. 

What Essential Oils Do Men Like?

Every single person is different, so there are certain scents that appeal more to some than others. Additionally, people have varying sensitivities to the intense aromas of essential oils. For this reason, you always want to ask the person about the essential oils, or at least the type of scents, that they prefer. Some people despise patchouli, while others can’t seem to get enough of it. Sandalwood essential oil, for example, has a woody, rustic aroma that is frequently used in beard balms and oils. It usually goes with the lumberjack or outdoorsy type of scent!

Typically, you want a manly blend of essential oils to contain a subtle floral aroma, but you don’t want it to overpower the blend. Lavender essential oil, for example, may tuck in without dominating the blend. Ylang ylang, magnolia, and rose essential oils, on the other hand, will overpower the blend because of their strong aromas. Below, you can find great essential oil blends for men that you can use in diffusers, perfumes, soaps, beard oils, and more. 

Commute Conqueror

Don’t let rush-hour traffic ruin your day. This manly diffuser blend will help keep eyes on the road, while simultaneously promoting relaxation. Consider getting a USB diffuser for the car!

• 2 drops lime essential oil
• 1 drop each: eucalyptus, copaiba, and cedarwood essential oils

Armchair Expert

This blend is for any man who commands the armchair, especially during a Sunday night football game. Settle into the recliner and relive the glory days before watching your team on the tube. 

• 6 drops valor essential oil blend
• 2 drops lemon essential oil
• 2 drops tea tree essential oil

Fresh Cut Grass

If you enjoy looking at lawnmowers and other yard equipment in the hardware store, this is the blend for you. The best part about this blend is that you don’t have to spend hours pulling weeds, weed whacking, or edging the yard to smell like freshly cut grass. Bring the outdoors inside!

• 6 drops citrus fresh essential oil
• 2 drops each: basil, bergamot, and northern lights black spruce essential oils

Afternoon Pick-Me-Up

Leave the energy drinks alone because they aren’t doing anything for your health. Get a diffuser and start energizing your afternoons with the power of essential oils.

• 6 drops orange essential oil
• 4 drops peppermint essential oil
• 2 drops Idaho grand fir essential oil

Man Cave Master

The scent of a man cave may repel the ladies. Uplift your senses with a unique blend of essential oils that screams masculinity. It’s a great blend to freshen up a man cave!

• 6 drops bergamot essential oil
• 3 drops northern lights black spruce essential oil
• 3 drops wintergreen essential oil

Woodshop Master

If you love working with your hands and can tell the difference between cedar, cherry, and pine, this is the blend for you. There is no need to spend a day in the wood shop when you can diffuse a similar blend in the house.

• 6 drops tangerine essential oil
• 4 drops Raven essential oil blend
• 2 drops Idaho blue spruce essential oil

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If you have a beard, or you know someone who has a beard, then a beard balm is a fantastic product to keep in the restroom. With so many beard balms on the market, though, it can be difficult to decide which one is best. Beard balms range in price and this typically has to do with what the brand is, but also what ingredients are in the balm. 

The number one thing to keep in mind in regards to beard balm ingredients is that they are natural and beneficial for your beard. The recipe in this article not only smells fresh and woodsy, but it has natural oils that help enhance the health of your beard. Some of the ingredients may even promote beard growth! Learn more about the ingredients below. 

Olive Oil

As one of the most versatile oils on the planet, it’s not a coincidence that it ended up in a beard balm recipe. Olive oil contains essential fatty acids that you need for skin and beard health. They work to keep your skin moisturized and may combat irritation, like beard itch. Olive oil is also rich in antioxidants and vitamins, including vitamin E, which is excellent for moisturizing the skin. Plus, olive oil’s primary ingredients are oleic acid, palmitic acid, and squalene, which are powerful emollients and softeners. This means that olive oil may help moisturize beard hair, hydrate the skin underneath, and make your beard softer. 

Coconut Oil

Coconut oil has a known ability to help soften your hair, all the while protecting its outer layers. Anecdotal evidence states that coconut oil may stimulate hair growth, but more studies are necessary to confirm this. The primary reason to incorporate coconut oil into your beard balm is because it helps to soften and condition beard hair, which tends to be scraggly and rough. If the skin under your beard is irritated, coconut oil’s antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties may help soothe irritation. If you have a coconut allergy, which is very rare, avoid this oil as it may cause irritation. 

Shea Butter

Gaining popularity in the beauty world for its healing properties, shea butter is naturally rich in healthy fats, vitamins, antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory properties. It is a well-known moisturizer, giving the skin proper nourishment when there is a shortage of sebum. Using it on your beard may help prevent beard itch or rashes, two things that are common for men with longer beards. Shea butter also contributes to the growth and shine of your beard, making it glisten in the sun. 

Beeswax

Beeswax may be the perfect ingredient to help ensure long-term beard growth. Not only can it help style your beard and help you tame wild hairs, but it may also reduce itchiness and flakiness. Beeswax helps keep your beard hairs clean and together, repairing them and softening growth in the process. If you regularly experience beardruff, then a beard balm with beeswax is something you need in your life. 

DIY Beeswax Beard Balm

Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup coconut oil
• 2 tablespoons beeswax
• 2 tablespoons shea butter
• 10 drops vitamin E oil
• 10 drops cedarwood essential oil

Instructions:

• Fill the bottom of a double boiler with about an inch or so of water and place it over medium-high heat. Once the water starts to boil, reduce the heat to medium-low.
• In the top of the double boiler, add all of the ingredients except for the cedarwood essential oil. Stir with a metal or wooden utensil until melted. 
• Once melted, remove the double boiler from heat and stir in the essential oil. Carefully pour the mixture into balm jars and allow the balm to solidify at room temperature. 
• Use on your beard when ready.

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Itchiness is one of the most irritating and common side effects that accompany beard growing. No matter if you are growing a new beard or have been growing one for years, itchiness can strike at any moment. The good news is that any itchy beard doesn’t last forever. If you find yourself asking, “Why does my beard itch?” on a regular basis, there are typically hidden issues or habits that cause the problem. 

What Does An Itchy Beard Mean?

Although itchiness can indicate that your beard is growing, this isn’t always the case. If you are growing your beard out for the first time, itchiness is par for the course. The reason that new beards itch is because the hairs are used to trimming, so strands are stubby and sharp. Sharp bristles break the skin’s surface and start to grow, often tickling the face in the process. This is the itchiness you feel in the initial growing stage. If itching persists past the first month, something else is at the root of the problem. Your health or overall hygiene may be causing your beard to itch, and we’ll indicate a few problems and fixes below. 

Your Beard And Skin Are Too Dry

Men with longer beards tend to experience itchiness when beards get too dry. The roots of your facial hair don’t produce enough natural oils to sustain the ends. They are different from the hair on your head in that way. Longer beards are at a natural disadvantage when it comes to oil production, which is why dryness or itchiness is fairly common. In fact, a dry or itchy beard can indicate that breakage and split ends are coming. 

Fortunately, you can easily fix dryness issues by starting in the shower. Water that is too hot or too cold can instantly dry out your beard and cause discomfort. Additionally, using hair care products on your face can damage sensitive beard hair and the skin underneath. Opt for gentle beard shampoo and conditioner, looking for ingredients like green tea, vitamin E, jojoba oil, aloe vera, and other natural ingredients on the label. Over-washing can also lead to beard dryness. Try to condition your beard more than you shampoo it, and never forget to moisturize with a natural beard oil, especially if your beard is longer. 

Your Beard Needs Extra Attention

Some beards are more high maintenance than others. It’s not always about how short, long, grimy, or clean your beard is. Specific hair types and the tools you use to trim your beard all factor into the itchiness of your beard. Thicker beards are more prone to itchiness and ingrown hairs. If you use the wrong tools on thick or curly hair types, you can ruin the texture of your beard and experience itchiness. When you force your beard through comb teeth that are too tight, it appears fullest at the roots and becomes wiry at the ends. Switch out your combs and brushes to help your beard avoid itchiness. 

How can you find the right beard comb or brush? First off, you need to consider your beard hair type and styling needs. Combs tend to work well for wet styling and brushes are better for manicuring dry beards. Men with shorter beards can benefit from fine- or medium-toothed combs, or soft bristle brushes. These tools keep beard hair tight and secure, but don’t try to force too much beard into these tools, or else you may break your hair. Thicker or curly beards may benefit from firm bristle brushes or wide-toothed combs. 

Your Beard And Skin Are Dirty

Don’t subscribe to the belief that a bearded man has to be grimy and rugged. Even though over-washing can cause beard itch, so can poor hygiene habits. When your skin and beard are too dirty, you’ll likely experience discomfort and itchiness. You really need to listen to this itch because you’ll start to see that poor hygiene negatively affects your beard. Bacteria and debris at the roots of your beard hairs cause itchiness and poor beard health. 

Failure to wash your beard properly can result in ingrown hairs, acne, and beard dandruff. The combination of dry skin, oils, and general debris can clog pores, which increases the itchiness. Rinse your board with warm water before bed to prevent overnight build-up between showering. Make sure to apply beard oil or beard balm throughout the day if you seek relief from dryness. These products help create a protective barrier for your beard so that bacteria have a harder time clinging to your skin.

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Researchers say that fertility issues affect about 15% of couples. The road to parenthood is never easy, as you may encounter unforeseen challenges or obstacles along the way. Please understand that if you are experiencing fertility issues, you are not alone. Many couples face similar issues, and the good news is that there are natural ways to help increase fertility. One of the easiest places to start is by eating the right foods that will make you fertile.

You don’t want to wait until you are nearing pregnancy to start eating the right foods. The minute you think about having a child, you want to add certain foods to your diet. Focus on specific nutrients like folate, calcium, iron, omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, protein, and antioxidants. Although many foods contain those aforementioned nutrients, you should eat the following foods to help make the body more fertile. 

Foods That Make You Fertile

Eat More Fiber

Fiber works to help improve digestion and keep you full between meals. It also aids the body with the elimination of excess hormones and helps to regulate blood sugar. One study linked soluble fiber from avocados, sweet potatoes, oats, and fruits to lower levels of estrogen and progesterone. If you have high estrogen and progesterone levels, it can be more difficult to get pregnant. Eating high fiber foods like whole grains, vegetables, and beans can help lower concentrations of these hormones. In fact, health experts say that women trying to increase fertility should increase their fiber intake by five grams per day.

Complex Carbohydrates 

Carbs are beneficial when you eat the right ones. You can learn more about the difference between simple and complex carbs by clicking here. Complex carbs are whole grains, beans, vegetables, and fruits, all of which help to keep blood levels stable. Simple or refined carbs tend to increase insulin levels, which can negatively affect reproductive hormones and the menstrual cycle. This is not a good scenario if you are trying to conceive. When you eat complex carbs, you can avoid insulin spikes and promote regular ovulation. 

Berries

Think red, blue, pink, and beyond! Raspberries, blueberries, blackberries, and strawberries contain high concentrations of antioxidants, which work to protect cells from damage and aging. That includes the cells in your reproductive system, i.e your eggs. Antioxidants like folate and zinc work to improve fertility in both men and women. In one study, women who consumed more folate experienced higher rates of clinical pregnancy, live birth, and implantation. 

Iron-Rich

A recent 2019 study found that heme iron (from animal sources) had no effect on fertility, whereas non-heme iron had mild benefits for women with iron deficiency. Consuming iron from plant-based foods may reduce the risk of ovulatory infertility. More studies are necessary in order to confirm whether or not iron supplements can help women increase fertility. Make a doctor’s appointment to check if your iron levels are solid if you want to conceive. Great non-heme iron sources are harder for the body to absorb, so consume these foods with vitamin C to increase bioavailability. Click here for great sources of plant-based iron. 

Folate-Rich Foods

Vitamin B9, also known as folate, is one of the most nutrients to consume before and during pregnancy. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) suggest that women consume 400 micrograms of folic acid daily at least one month before getting pregnant. Folic acid is the synthesized version of folate, which you can get from consuming leafy green vegetables, including kale, bok choy, Swiss chard, broccoli, spinach, and more. Strawberries and oranges are also great sources of folate.

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