Changing weather, washing dishes, gel manicures and excessive nail polish use can wreak havoc on your fingernails. You may experience dry, brittle, or weak nails that easily split. Fortunately, you do not have to live with these nail issues. Take matters into your own hands and use the homemade strengthening nail serum in this article to help repair nails. With just a few simple ingredients, you can make this serum!

What Causes Nails To Become Weak?

The nails are made up of keratin, which is a protein that is also found in skin and hair. As you get older, the body starts to produce keratin at a slower rate, which can cause nails to appear dry, dull, or even brittle. As mentioned previously, though, a number of factors influence nail health. Extreme weather, excessive hand washing, or contact with chemicals can leave nails dry and vulnerable. 

Signs Of Damaged Nails

Although the signs may vary, you may want to take better care of your nails if you experience the following signs:

• Changes in nail thickness
• Peeling nails
• Nail discoloration (yellow nails, or nails with white or dark spots)
• Changes in nail shape (ridges or curled nails)

You can strengthen your nails with various natural remedies, such as moisturizing daily or ditching nail polish removers that contain acetone. The following ingredients in this strengthening nail serum help encourage healthier nails. 

Vitamin E Oil

Anyone with brittle, ridged, or yellow nails will find that vitamin E oil is highly beneficial. Vitamin E oil helps to hydrate and protect nails, fighting off bacteria and viruses. It also works to widen blood vessels, which means that it helps make your nails stronger and healthier with less ridges. Vitamin E oil also works to repair damage done by harsh nail polish removers. You can apply vitamin E oil to your nails and cuticle beds for maximum benefits. Plus, it helps to increase moisture to the nail bed and skin around the nails. 

Jojoba Oil

Regular application of jojoba oil can help boost the moisture content of your nail plates, making your nails less prone to flakiness. You may sometimes notice a whitish or yellowish accumulation under the nail if you have psoriasis. Jojoba oil may help thicken the nails, which works to restore your nails to a healthier state. If the keratin in your nail beds break down, you can experience splitting or breakage. Jojoba oil can help strengthen the nails, helping them become less brittle when they are exposed to harsh products or extreme conditions. 

Essential Oils

There are many essential oils that can help strengthen weak or brittle nails. Naturally, the serum in this article does not contain all of those essential oils, but it does contain lemon, lavender, frankincense, and myrrh essential oils. Lemon essential oil hydrates and strengthens the nail, helping to improve their natural shine. Lavender essential oil is excellent for cuticle care and boosts the skin’s firmness and elasticity. Frankincense essential oil has anti-fungal properties that help fight fungi, which can slow nail growth, and also adds moisture to nail beds and cuticles. Finally, myrrh essential oil is one of the best oils for keeping nails healthy and strong. It works to protect your nail beds from becoming brittle and thin. 

DIY Strengthening Nail Serum

Ingredients:

• 1.25 teaspoons jojoba oil
• 1/2 teaspoon vitamin E oil
• 5 drops each: lemon, lavender, frankincense, and myrrh essential oils

Instructions:

• Add all of the ingredients to a 10-milliliter glass bottle with a rollerball top. Screw on the top and shake well to combine. 
• This is a 10% dilution of essential oils, which may be greater than you are used to, so feel free to reduce the amount of essential oil drops you use if you have more sensitive skin or nails. 
• Apply two to three times per week, shaking before each use.

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A ringworm rash is uncomfortable, but it is very common and easily treatable. Early intervention is critical if you want to prevent it from spreading and infecting others. It is usually an itchy, circular rash with a clearer center. The fungal infection gets its name from the appearance, with a darker red line on the exterior. 

What Is Ringworm?

Ringworm usually causes a ring-shaped rash that can be scaly, itchy, and slightly raised. It is related to athlete’s foot (tinea pedis), jock itch (tinea cruris), and ringworm of the scalp (tinea capitis). It is a fungal infection that spreads via skin-to-skin contact with an infected person or animal. If the infection is mild, you can easily get rid of it with mild anti-fungal ointment or cream. If the infection is more severe, you may need to take oral anti-fungal medication for a couple weeks. 

There are many things you can do to help get rid of ringworm and accelerate the recovery process. If you want to limit the spread and get rid of the infection, consider these simple treatment options. 

Apply A Topical Anti-Fungal

Most ringworm cases only require at-home treatment. Over-the-counter anti-fungals can help kill the fungus and promote healing. There are many ointments that can help clear up the rash. To apply the topical anti-fungal medication, make sure to clean the rash first. Wash your hands and then apply a thin layer to the affected area twice daily, or as instructed. Make sure to spread the topical ointment beyond the border of the rash by a centimeter or so, as that will help it absorb into the skin.

Wash Your Bedding Every Day

Ringworm, much like athlete’s foot, is a highly contagious fungal infection. For this reason, you should wash your bedding and clothes daily to help get rid of the infection more quickly. The reason to change your sheets is because fungal spores can transfer to your sheets and comforter. If you sleep on the same sheets night after night, you can delay the healing process and increase the risk of the infection spreading to other parts of the body. Make sure to use hot water and detergent when you wash infected bedding or sheets. 

Let It Breathe

It seems counterintuitive to leave the ringworm infection out in the open. You should cover it up to avoid spreading the infection, right? As true as that may seem, bandaging the infection locks in moisture, which slows the healing process. Make sure to keep the area dry and wear comfortable, breathable clothing to promote faster healing. Loose-fitting, long-sleeve shirts and pants are excellent. No skin-tight clothing items!

Change Wet Underwear And Socks

One of the easiest ways to develop athlete’s foot or ringworm is to continue wearing wet socks or underwear. Ringworm can develop in the groin area and feet if you do not keep these areas dry. If you sweat a lot during the day, make sure to bathe with a cleansing bar and consider applying an anti-fungal powder or lotion. Just make sure the area is completely dry before you put on new underwear or socks. 

Use Anti-Fungal Shampoo

If ringworm develops on the scalp, which is not too common, you may experience severe itching, patches of hair loss, and severe dandruff. A medicated anti-fungal shampoo can help remedy ringworm on the scalp. These shampoos will kill the bacteria and fungi on the scalp, preventing inflammation. You can buy an anti-fungal shampoo at the grocery store or drugstore. Just make sure that these shampoos have active ingredients like selenium sulfide, pyrithione zinc, or ketoconazole. 

Experiment With Aloe Vera

Aloe vera works to reduce inflammation, and is a known “itch-soother.” Some research suggests that aloe vera also exhibits anti-fungal activity. Aloe will not likely harm the skin and may help to reduce itchiness. That said, it probably will not clear up ringworm on its own, but it may be effective when combined with an anti-fungal ringworm solution. Use aloe gel from a plant for the best results.

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Beach trips, days at the lake, and backyard barbecues are synonymous with two things: summer and sunburns. If you don’t protect your skin, it can burn within 30 minutes of being out in the sun. And if you’ve suffered a bad sunburn, then you understand how miserable it can be. It is possible that some of your efforts to protect your skin fall through the cracks, and you end up with a sunburn. Fortunately, you can soothe sunburnt skin with the after sun lotion in this article. 

We want to be clear and say that this after sun lotion is not a miracle cure. It will not make your sunburn vanish within an hour, nor will it undo the damage done to your skin. It can, however, provide some relief and replenish your skin with moisture. Additionally, this after sun lotion may accelerate your recovery, hydrating your skin in the process. As a quick note, try to stay out of the sun while recovering from a sunburn. 

Aloe Vera

Aloe vera and sunburns go together like peanut butter and jelly. For thousands of years, different civilizations have used aloe vera to treat various skin conditions, such as burns and minor wounds. Some people refer to aloe vera as the “burn plant” because it is highly effective at soothing burns and sunburns. However, when applying aloe vera topically, it can quickly evaporate from the skin, so you may not absorb all of the medicinal properties. For this reason, it can be beneficial to mix it with something that provides a barrier to lock moisture into the skin. That brings us to the next ingredient.

Shea Butter

A go-to in many DIY beauty recipes, shea butter provides excellent moisturizing properties and other noteworthy benefits. If you have dull or dry skin, shea butter can help it retain moisture by forming a protective layer on the skin’s surface. That ultimately reduces water loss and keeps the skin more supple and hydrated. Shea butter also contains vitamins A and E, both of which contribute to a more youthful appearance. Who doesn’t want that? Lastly, shea butter works to promote cell regeneration, which can help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. 

Coconut Oil

If you apply coconut oil to the skin after some time in the sun, it can provide a cooling feeling and may even relieve sunburn symptoms. The saturated fats in coconut oil are excellent for moisturizing the skin. Plus, dermatologists agree that coconut oil aids every aspect of a sunburn. Not only does it have a soothing feel after application, but it also deeply hydrates the skin to repair damage done by the sun. 

Lavender Essential Oil

Great for calming the intensity of a sunburn, lavender essential oil is gentle enough for you to topically apply it with a carrier oil on damaged skin. Because of the linalool and linalyl acetate content, lavender essential oil works to reduce the pain of a severe sunburn. Lavender essential oil also contains antibacterial, carminative, and anti-fungal properties, all of which help to accelerate the healing process of a sunburn. 

DIY After Sun Lotion

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup shea butter
• 3 tablespoons coconut oil
• 3 tablespoons organic aloe vera gel
• 1 tablespoon rosehip oil
• 30 drops lavender essential oil

Instructions:

• You will need a stand mixer or a hand mixer to make this recipe. 
• Break up the shea butter into small chunks and place in the mixer. Whip on high for 20 seconds and then stop to scrape down the sides. 
• Add the coconut oil and whip for 20 seconds before stopping to scrape down the sides. Add the aloe vera gel and then whip for another 20 seconds. 
• Repeat this process when you add the rosehip oil and then the lavender essential oil, adding them one at a time and then mixing well. The after sun lotion should be creamy and easy to remove with a silicone spatula. 
• Store in a glass jar in a cool, dry place. Apply to sunburnt skin without being too aggressive. It’s best to apply the lotion after a cold shower.

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If you are the victim of a flaky scalp, you understand the struggle. Although the white flakes on your shoulders are not cause for serious concern, they can be annoying and embarrassing. Dandruff is occasionally difficult to treat, but one way to address the problem is the use of essential oils. A 2015 review of studies found that several essential oils, which we’ll detail in this article, can be very helpful in controlling dandruff. 

Although white flakes of any sort can arise, excess oil is what causes dandruff. Malassezia is a yeast that naturally exists on the scalp and feeds off the oil that the scalp produces. The excess of yeast creates yellow-is flakes that are hard to prevent. It’s important to note that dry scalp and dandruff are not the same thing. Your skin flakes off if your scalp is dry, and that can stem from using the wrong shampoo, soap, stress, or the weather. Dandruff may seem similar to dry scalp, but it results from an overproduction of oil and overgrowth of malassezia. 

Many people with dandruff resort to anti-dandruff shampoos, but you can go a more natural route for experimentation. Several essential oils exhibit health properties that may help relieve symptoms of dandruff or improve overall scalp health. If you do experiment with the following essential oils, make sure to dilute them in a carrier oil prior to application. Additionally, always do a patch test on a small area of your arm to ensure that you don’t have a negative reaction. 

Peppermint Essential Oil

The anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties of peppermint essential oil make it great for soothing an itchy scalp. Researchers note that this essential oil helps absorb excess oils on the scalp, which is why it exists in complex hair care formulas. Although it isn’t an anti-fungal treatment, it does work to clarify the scalp and improve overall scalp health. By absorbing excess oils on the scalp, some beauty experts believe that peppermint essential oil may help your dandruff problem.

Lemongrass Essential Oil

Lemongrass essential oil is another oil that exhibits anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that may help control dandruff. One study found that a solution containing 10% lemongrass essential oil significantly reduced dandruff symptoms in participants. These participants applied the solution twice a day for seven and then 14 days. After seven days, there was a 15% reduction in dandruff symptoms. By day 14, the effects increased even more.

Rosemary Essential Oil

According to many studies, rosemary essential oil may help promote hair growth after consistent use. Additional studies note that rosemary essential oil has astringent, anti-fungal, and decongestant properties, all of which reduce excess oils, build-up, and flakes that accompany dandruff. The anti-fungal properties work to address the overactive fungal activity on the scalp, which is the origin of dandruff. 

Tea Tree Oil

Tea tree oil is one of the most commonly recommended essential oils to remedy dandruff. Studies show that tea tree oil has anti-fungal and antibacterial properties that work to ward off foreign invaders that try to attack your scalp. Tea tree oil also has antiseptic properties that work to alleviate the root cause of dandruff. You can add five to 10 drops of tea tree oil to eight ounces of shampoo. When you use this shampoo, let it sit on your hair before rinsing. That way the scalp can absorb the benefits. 

Bergamot Essential Oil

Many hair care products can cause build-up on the scalp that can clog your pores, increasing the risk of dandruff. The antimicrobial nature of bergamot essential oil helps reduce that build-up and reduce the growth of bacteria. Add a few drops of this essential oil to your shampoo and massage it into your scalp. Let it sit on your head for five minutes before reining out. 

Lemon Essential Oil

Lemon essential oil is known for its cleaning and antiseptic properties, making it a popular ingredient in DIY, non-toxic cleaning products. Those same properties work to gently cleanse the scalp and help remove oily debris. If oiliness contributes to your issues, or you are prone to acne, lemon essential oil may be the perfect oil for your scalp. Just make sure to dilute it in a carrier oil or shampoo for application.

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Boric acid suppositories may be the cost-effective alternative treatment method you need to remedy vaginal infections, including bacterial vaginosis or yeast infections. They can be prescribed by your healthcare provider as an alternative to traditional antibiotics, especially if that method doesn’t yield results. Boric acid suppositories are also available over-the-counter. This article discusses what boric acid suppositories are, what they may be able to treat, and the benefits and risks associated with them.

What Is Boric Acid?

Boric acid is a water-soluble compound that contains oxygen, boron, and hydrogen. It is a white substance that comes in crystal or powder form. According to research, boric acid exhibits anti-fungal and antibacterial properties. Diluted boric acid solutions may be used to treat skin insect bites, athlete’s foot, foot odor, diaper rash, and yeast infections. Boric acid suppositories work to promote proper acid balance in the vagina. It may relieve symptoms like itching and burning. 

Benefits Of Boric Acid Suppositories

As previously mentioned, boric acid exhibits anti-fungal and antibacterial properties. Research indicates that when used appropriately, boric acid suppositories may reduce the risk of recurrent vaginal infections. At times, they may work more effectively than traditional medications, including antifungals that are typically prescribed to treat yeast infections. A 2011 review of 14 studies found that cure rates involving the use of boric acid varied between 40% and 100%. Based on the available research, researchers concluded that boric acid is a safe alternative and affordable option to other treatments. In some cases, boric acid suppositories may be recommended for:

• Trichomoniasis
• Yeast infections
• Bacterial vaginosis

Boric Acid For Yeast Infections

According to several studies, boric acid suppositories may be very effective at treating yeast infections. Researchers note that this is especially true for yeast infections that are not caused by Candida albicans, the usual suspect of yeast infections. A review of studies found that boric acid suppositories are considered safe with only mild side effects. They did a reasonable job eliminating such non-albicans infections, curing between 40% and 100% of such yeast infections. Additionally, yeast infections were no more likely to recur after boric acid treatment than after use of standard antifungal drugs. 

Boric Acid For Bacterial Vaginosis

Bacterial vaginosis occurs when there is an imbalance in vaginal flora. Unfortunately, there is little evidence for the use of boric acid suppositories to treat bacterial vaginosis. That said, small studies suggest that boric acid may be effective when used alone or as a complementary therapy. In one study, about 77% of the participants reported feeling satisfied with how their symptoms resolved; however, the average treatment time was a little over one year. 

Boric Acid For Trichomoniasis 

Trichomoniasis is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by Trichomonas vaginalis. The research that is available on boric acid suppositories as a treatment option is limited to small studies. Laboratory studies have shown that boric acid can effectively inhibit the growth of trichomonas bacteria. That supports the fact that boric acid suppositories may be an appropriate treatment option for the condition. That said, trichomonas has difficulty growing in acidic environments in lab settings. People who have a higher than healthy pH balance in the vagina tend to experience this condition more frequently. For infections that are hard to treat, consider discussing boric acid suppositories with your healthcare provider. 

How To Use Boric Acid Suppositories

You always have the option of discussing the use of boric acid suppositories with your healthcare provider prior to using it as a treatment option. If you just want to try it on your own, be sure to wash your hands thoroughly. Use an applicator, or your finger, to insert one suppository into the vagina in the evening. You may want to wear a panty liner or washable period underwear in case of possible discharge. 

Typical instructions for a yeast infection is to leave in the suppository overnight, inserting a new one each night for seven days. For recurring infections, insert one suppository per evening for 14 days, then continue to use for six months to a year twice weekly. Most boric acid suppositories are available at drugstores or online. 

Side Effects

Boric acid suppositories are generally safe for adults, but minor side effects can occur. Tell your healthcare provider about other medications or supplements you take because they may or may not interact with the suppository. Don’t ever take boric acid suppositories orally and do not use them if you are pregnant or plan on becoming pregnant. The most common side effects include:

• Burning at the insertion site
• Vaginal irritation
• Suppository leaking out and not fully absorbing
• Redness in the vaginal area
• Watery discharge
• Harm to fetus (if pregnant)

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Do you ever open your drawers or closet and have to step away because of an unpleasant aroma? Your first instinct is to grab the air freshener and liberally spray it all over the culprit area. Not only do air fresheners temporarily mask the scent, but they also pollute your space with harmful chemicals. That is why it’s much safer and more effective to use the all-natural air freshener jars in this article. 

The Problem With Commercial Air Fresheners

The problem with many commercial air deodorizers or air fresheners is the long list of toxins. Chemicals in these products, specifically the phthalates, and formaldehyde, can cause rashes, dizziness, headaches, and throat irritation. These chemical compounds are also known as volatile organic compounds (VOCs). According to several studies, exposure to VOCs can cause adverse health effects, including loss of coordination, liver damage, and damage to the central nervous system. Researchers identified some VOCs as suspected or proven carcinogens. Long-term exposure to VOCs can also increase the risk of asthma and certain types of cancer.

Formaldehyde, for example, is a common ingredient in many household air fresheners and cleaners. You can also find it in home furnishings, household paints, and certain textiles. That makes formaldehyde very difficult to avoid, but limiting your exposure is an important first step. Unfortunately, phthalates are also problematic VOCs that are in a lot of air freshening products. Phthalates help distribute fragrances, but they also can disrupt the body’s hormone levels, which can affect your overall health and well-being.

The said reality is that products that have “all-natural” on the label can still contain VOCs. Homemade air freshening products, on the other hand, give you full control over what goes into them. We detail the ingredients for the air freshener jars below. 

Baking Soda

Sodium bicarbonate, or baking soda, is a staple in the non-toxic cleaning world. It is mildly abrasive, eco-friendly, affordable, and great for getting rid of built-up grime. Baking soda is known for its ability to absorb and neutralize unpleasant odors. The “why” behind baking soda’s ability to do this has to do with chemistry. Most smells are acidic in nature, and baking soda works to neutralize pH levels. To put it simply, baking soda’s basic pH is perfect for neutralizing acids that cause foul odors.

Lavender Essential Oil

Lavender essential oil’s aroma is very relaxing and studies show that it can promote better sleep. Various studies also confirmed that lavender has a soothing effect that can reduce stress levels. Another benefit of lavender is that it has properties that may be able to repel certain insects, particularly moths, making it great for closets, dresser drawers, and line closets. You can use both dried lavender and lavender essential oil to maximize the effects of lavender, and make the scent last longer. 

Eucalyptus

Similar to baking soda, eucalyptus has an ability to neutralize foul odors in the home. A simple sprig of eucalyptus is enough to create a pleasant aroma in a room. Eucalyptus essential oil is even more powerful, as it is distilled from the leaves of the eucalyptus tree. It exhibits anti-fungal and antibacterial properties, which may help combat certain chemicals in the air. Finally, eucalyptus essential oil acts as a natural decongestant when you inhale it, making it great for your home. Who doesn’t want to breathe better when they walk into a room?!

DIY Air Freshener Jars

Ingredients:

• 2 cups baking soda 
• 1/2 cup dried lavender buds
• Sprigs of eucalyptus (optional)
• 20 drops lavender essential oil
• 10 drops eucalyptus essential oil

Instructions:

• Pour the baking soda into a large bowl and add the dried lavender and optional eucalyptus leaves. Mix well to combine.
• Add in the essential oils and continue to mix before transferring the mixture into small, wide-mouth mason jars. 
• Use your mason jar lid insert as a guide to trace and cut a circular piece of brown paper bag. Any type of paper will work for this step, for example, wrapping paper or card stock. 
• Using a needle, poke holes into the circular pieces of paper, making sure that you do it over a carpet or towel to protect your counter or desk. 
• Place the circular pieces of paper on the tops of your mason jars and screw on the lids to secure the paper. The tiny holes allow the wonderful aromas to freshen up your space.

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Carrier oils and essential oils are excellent ingredients that help strengthen nails and repair cracked cuticles. Olive oil, jojoba oil, coconut oil, and vitamin E oil exhibit hydrating and strengthening properties, while essential oils are quite soothing and anti-fungal. Since cuticles are more susceptible to cracking during dry, winter weather, this DIY cuticle butter should come to your aid. 

The primary issue, in regards to cracked or split cuticles, is a lack of moisture. That means that you have to supply the affected areas with ingredients that help to seal moisture into the skin. One of the easiest ways for the skin to absorb these ingredients is by applying a body butter to the area. The only difference between this cuticle butter and other body butters is that the ingredients cater to your nails and cuticles. We think that you’re going to like how it makes your cuticles look and feel!

Shea Butter

Beauty experts suggest rubbing rub shea butter into your cuticles and nail beds before you do any other nail maintenance. Allowing the shea butter to remain on your cuticles and nails promotes nourishment and hydration. Not only can shea butter strengthen your nails, but it may also heal damaged nail beds and cuticles. The best thing about shea butter is that it helps protect your cuticles from future damage. 

Coconut Oil

If the body is in a state of dehydration, one of the most common signs is dry cuticles or flaky nails. Although applying coconut oil to your cuticles doesn’t equate to drinking lots of water, it does help hydrate and nourish your nails. If you cook with coconut oil, dip your nails in the oil for a little hit of hydration. Massage the oil into the dry areas for optimal nourishment. 

Jojoba Oil

Experts say that jojoba oil may be one of the best oils to treat and soften your cuticles. Jojoba oil is seed-based and contains small molecules that are similar to human sebum, the skin’s naturally occurring oil. Because of that, jojoba oil is easily absorbed into the skin to provide natural moisture. Jojoba oil contains vitamins B & E, both of which help to repair damaged collagen inside nail beds, ultimately improving strength and promoting healthy nail growth. 

Vitamin E Oil

Vitamin E oil has a long history of use in strengthening brittle nails and hydrating chapped or dry skin. According to several studies, vitamin E oil exhibits anti-inflammatory effects that may help improve tissues involved in blood circulation. Researchers propose that the same properties that encourage this process may also be important for nail growth and healing. 

Lavender Essential Oil

This versatile oil exhibits relaxing properties that help calm the mind and improve sleep. Lavender essential oil is also deeply hydrating and soothing, making it an excellent choice for dry or inflamed cuticles. It also works to strengthen and moisturize the nails and cuticles. 

Frankincense Essential Oil

Frankincense essential oil has a long history of use in medicinal applications. According to several studies, frankincense essential oil’s antifungal properties can fight fungi that can slow down nail growth. Frankincense essential oil can also moisturize the cuticle and prevent peeling and dryness.

DIY Cuticle Butter

Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup shea butter
• 2 tablespoons coconut oil
• 1 tablespoon jojoba oil
• 1 tablespoon vitamin E oil
• 20 drops lavender essential oil
• 20 drops frankincense essential oil

Instructions:

• Make a makeshift double boiler by adding an inch or two of water into a pot over medium heat. 
• Place the shea butter and coconut oil in a heat-safe glass jar and place that into the pot. 
• When the water starts boiling, turn down the heat. Stir the shea butter mixture until melted. 
• Once melted, remove from the heat and stir in the jojoba oil, vitamin E oil, and the two essential oils. 
• Pour the mixture into a heat-safe glass bowl and allow it to cool for an hour at room temperature. It should start to solidify. 
• Use a stand mixer or hand mixer to whip the mixture until it turns into a whipped butter consistency. 
• Spoon the whipped cuticle butter into little glass jars and screw on the top. Store in a cool, dry place. A little goes a long way with this recipe, so you should be good for quite a while!

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Mold is a fungus that can quickly become a problem in your home, especially in moist or humid areas like the bathroom. It is unsightly and poses several risks to your overall health. If mold gets really bad, it can even cause structural damage to the house. How and why does mold grow and what can you do to get rid of it? The DIY anti-mold spray in this article should help you defeat the problem!

Why Does Mold Grow In The Bathroom?

Moisture and heat are the two ingredients that create a humid environment, which is ideal for mold growth. Mold spores start to grow in a humid habitat, which you create every time you take a shower or bath. Even if you wash your face or hands with warm water in the sink, you increase humidity in that area. The microscopic organisms that exist in the air or dust can feed mold spores and cause it to rapidly reproduce and spread. It is your responsibility to address the problem as soon as you see any mold. 

Now, there are numerous ways to help prevent mold growth in humid environments like the bathroom. If you see mold, just be careful because scrubbing it can cause it to release more mold spores, which can worsen the problem. If you just start to notice it in small patches, the natural ingredients in the anti-mold spray in this article should help you get rid of it. 

Vinegar

Vinegar exhibits antibacterial and antifungal properties, making it an affordable and natural treatment for many types of mold. Distilled white vinegar contains about 5-8% acetic acid, which is moderately strong and has a pH of 2.5. This acidity can disrupt the growth of several types of fungi and microorganisms. According to some research, vinegar is effective at preventing mold growth on fruit and at removing common household molds. However, it isn’t effective at killing every type of mold. Vinegar tends to be safe on a variety of surfaces, but you may need to check to see if it is safe to use on the surface where you see mold growth. 

Lemon Essential Oil

Lemon essential oil is quite versatile and commonly used in aromatherapy practices. Similar to other citrus oils, lemon essential oil can break down mold spores at a molecular level. Researchers attribute this ability to the strong anti-fungal properties. Not only does lemon essential oil give off a pleasant and inviting aroma, but it also works to prevent mold from forming on surfaces like shower grout and bathtub caulking. 

Tea Tree Oil

As a powerful fungicide, tea tree oil is best known for its antifungal properties in regards to skin care. Tea tree oil is effective against bacteria and fungus, but can it kill indoor mold? There are mixed views about this because an ingredient that can tackle fungus on the body may not work great on mold. According to some research, tea tree oil may help to clean moldy areas, but it cannot do it on its own. Combining it with lemon essential oil and vinegar, though, is the right way to solve the problem. 

DIY Anti-Mold Spray 

Ingredients:

• 1 cup white vinegar
• 20 drops lemon essential oil
• 40 drops tea tree essential oil
• 8-ounce spray bottle

Instructions:

• Pour all of the ingredients into a spray bottle, screw on the top and shake well to combine. 
• Make sure to shake well before each use. Because mold is toxic, you should always wear a face mask and gloves when cleaning mold and mildew. 
• Spray the anti-mold solution on the surface you want to clean and let it sit for about an hour. Using a microfiber cloth and scrub brush, remove any surface mold and then spray again.
• Allow to air dry. Use again when needed.

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Over the years, we’ve shared a handful of DIY, non-toxic cleaning products. There are many people who want to reduce the amount of harmful chemicals they spray in their homes. That’s why we continue to post recipes for all-natural cleaning products, just like the homemade grease cleaner in this article. 

Once you discover a few ingredients that can clean various areas of your house, you never want to let them go. The reason for that is because you only need a few items to clean areas of your house. When it comes to grease, though, you need the right ingredients to cut through the grime. That’s where Castile soap comes into play! You can use this oil-based, biodegradable soap in DIY beauty and cleaning products!  For the entire recipe, you’ll need:

• 1.75 cups distilled water
• 2 tablespoons Castile soap
• 20 drops orange essential oil
• Spray bottle

Making The Grease Cleaner

The great thing about this DIY recipe is that you don’t need a double boiler, stand mixer, or any fancy kitchen appliance. A funnel and spray bottle will do the trick! You simply pour the distilled water into the bottle, followed by the Castile soap and essential oil. Both the soap and the essential oil work to clean, disinfect, and degrease the surface you decide to clean. The reason that this recipe calls for distilled water is because it helps to lengthen the shelf life of homemade cleaners. 

Castile Soap For Cleaning

Because Castile soap is oil-based, it is an excellent ingredient for dissolving grease or stubborn dirt. Chemically, like dissolves like, meaning that the best way to degrease your kitchen is by using an oil-based cleaner like Castile soap. If you see light grime, a simple solution of Castile soap and water can do the trick with a wipe down. For stubborn grease, you may need to use a toothbrush and some good old fashioned elbow grease. 

Orange Essential Oil

Not only does orange essential oil leave your kitchen smelling floral and citrusy, but it also works to remove sticky residue. A lot of DIY cleaning enthusiasts prefer orange essential oil for this reason. Orange essential oil also exhibits antiseptic and anti-fungal properties, which makes it an effective cleaner. It helps to get rid of dirt, dust, and even disease causing bacteria like salmonella or E. coli. Like Castile soap, orange essential oil is both an oil and chemical-free. Like dissolves like, people! That is the point of this degreaser, which you can learn how to make below. 

DIY Orange-Scented Grease Cleaner

Ingredients:

• 1.75 cups distilled water
• 2 tablespoons Castile soap
• 20 drops orange essential oil

Instructions:

• Place a funnel in the top of a spray bottle and pour in the distilled water. Next, add the Castile soap.
• Pour in the orange essential oil and then screw on the spray top. Shake well to combine and it is ready to use. 

How To Use:

• Make sure to shake well before each use. There are no chemicals or binders in this recipe, so the ingredients may separate while it sits. 
• Spray the surface you want to clean liberally and then wipe away with sponge or cloth. You won’t believe how well this works!

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Let’s bust a myth straight out of the gate: You don’t need to be an athlete to feel the incredible itch of athlete’s foot. It’s a common fungal infection that causes itchy, scaly, burning, stinging, or occasionally cracked skin. A person experiences athlete’s foot when there is a large presence of dermatophytes on the skin. This type of fungi grows in warm, humid conditions, for example, sweaty socks.

Athlete’s foot, ringworm, and jock itch are three closely related fungal infections. More often than not, people treat them with anti-fungal medications, but it’s possible for infection to return. There are also natural remedies to help improve the condition, but some may not work for everyone. It’s time to consult a physician if the condition doesn’t improve within two weeks after beginning self-treatment with either natural remedies or an over-the-counter anti-fungal product. You may also want to consult your doctor if you have diabetes and suspect athlete’s foot. If the foot swells up and you notice redness then see your doctor as well. 

Natural remedies and over-the-counter anti-fungal products can alleviate symptoms. Some of these products may help avoid a recurring rash, while others will not work at all. And then there are products that work, but personal habits get in the way of the healing process. If you have athlete’s foot and are on the healing path, avoid these common mistakes that can worsen the condition. 

You Wear The Same Shoes Every Day

Everyone has a pair of shoes that they could wear every day, no matter what. One pair of shoes may be as comfortable as a fuzzy pair of house slippers, but those comfy kicks may prevent your athlete’s foot from healing properly. According to medical professionals, wearing the same shoes every day doesn’t allow the inside of the shoes to dry properly between wears. A moist, enclosed environment is not conducive to athlete’s foot, or any fungal condition. Keep the feet and the surfaces that the feet touch clean and dry. Alternate shoes every day, wash sneakers, insoles, and socks regularly, and choose breathable shoes if your feet are prone to sweating. 

You Walk Barefoot In Shared Spaces

Some people brave the public spaces with no fear of catching any sort of disease, bacteria, or fungus. Walking barefoot in airplanes, gyms, public pools, locker rooms, or hotel rooms can result in athlete’s foot. Fungus that fosters athlete’s foot may linger on the floor in these areas, according to dermatologists. If you have a break in the skin, walking around barefoot in shared spaces leaves you more susceptible to an infection. A skin break or wound is an invitation for opportunistic pathogens. If you already suffer from athlete’s foot, walking barefoot with broken skin not only spreads the fungus to the floor, but can also lead to secondary bacterial infection. Always wear shoes or flip-flops in shared spaces. 

You Moisturize Your Feet

People often mistake dry, cracked skin on the feet for athlete’s foot. It’s possible for athlete’s foot to look scaly on the bottoms of the feet, but it’s also possible to simply experience dry skin. One thing to remember is that fungus feeds off moist environments. If you have athlete’s foot, moisturizing will only worsen the condition and inhibit the healing process. The best thing you can do is ditch the lotion and consider an over-the-counter anti-fungal cream instead. If you can’t distinguish dry skin from athlete’s foot, consider seeing a podiatrist to properly assess the situation.

You Don’t Cut Toenails Often Enough

Believe it or not, this can slow the healing process if you suffer from athlete’s foot. Nailbeds can present the perfect environment for infection, especially if nails are too long. If you don’t cut your toenails, they can break and cause trauma to the nailbed. That can then lead to a deformed toenail, which has an increased risk of bacterial or fungal infection. Keep toenails short in order to prevent fungus from entering under the toenail or surrounding skin. Trim nails just above the white line using clippers. 

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