Every now and again, a hairstyling product comes along that garners a lot of attention. Sea salt spray is that product, and it rose to popularity with the loose and flowing hair style trend. Shirts got boxier and pants got baggier with more natural, relaxed fits replacing skinny or slim-fit items. The same looseness applies to hair as well, because the natural look is where it’s at. 

What Is Sea Salt Spray?

The idea behind sea salt spray is that you do not have to hang 10 on a longboard in Malibu, California to achieve ocean-sprayed hair. The spray does not require the offshore winds that contain salt from the Pacific Ocean; rather, it gives your hair a similar look and texture to when you come out of the ocean. Think of sea salt spray as a bottle of concentrated ocean water that adds texture and flow to your locks. The benefit is that you do not have to deal with crowded beaches, sunburns, and sharks to achieve this look!

What Does Sea Salt Spray Do? 

First and foremost, sea salt spray adds both volume and texture to your hair. When too much oil and product accumulate on the scalp and hair, hair shafts become weighed down. Plus, the oilier the hair gets, the more hair shafts clump together and lose their life. Sea salt spray works to remove excess buildup, which lightens hair strands so that they can flow independently. The salt in the spray also has a little grit, which helps texturize the hair. 

Enhances Natural Curl Pattern Of Hair

Let us quickly break down hair types, which are characterized by density, texture, and curl pattern:

• Type 1: straight hair
• Type 2: wavy hair
• Type 3: curly hair
• Type 4: coily hair (the most fragile because hair strands are finer with fewer cuticle layers)

Everyone has a different curl pattern based on their hair type. Type 1 has no curl, type 2 has a natural “S” shape, type 3 has round, tight curls, and type 4 has curls with more of a “Z” shape. In order to enhance the natural curl pattern of your hair, apply sea salt spray to when hair and scrunch it with your free hand. The hair shafts will settle deeper into their curl pattern as your hair dries. If you have straight hair, or type 1 hair, you will not a lot of curl from a sea salt spray. The reason for this is because type 1 hair is usually resistant to curling without chemical assistance. 

The great thing about this DIY sea salt spray is that it does not make your hair look greasy or hard. Instead, it works to hydrate your hair and control frizz. Plus, it has essential oils that not only add a lovely scent to the spray, but also stimulate hair growth. If you spend a lot of time in the sun, the essential oils will assist in protecting hair from sun damage, while simultaneously encouraging new hair growth. Just know that this is not a hair growth product; rather, it contains ingredients with properties that may help encourage healthier hair or stimulate the scalp. 

DIY Sea Salt Spray

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon Epsom salt
• 1 tablespoon organic sugar
• 10 drops lavender essential oil
• 10 drops lemon essential oil
• 5 drops rosemary essential oil
• 10 drops clary sage essential oil
• 1 cup distilled water (hot but not boiling)

Instructions:

• Add all of the ingredients (except for the hot water) to a spray bottle, preferably an amber glass spray bottle. The dark nature of the glass will help preserve the health properties of the essential oils. 
• Pour the hot water in until the bottle is full, leaving a little room for the sprayer to go in the bottle. 
• Screw on the top and shake until all of the ingredients are dissolved. 
• When ready, spritz the sea salt spray into dry hair and scrunch until the spray dries. You can also blow dry your hair on low as you scrunch to accelerate the natural curling process.

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In today’s fast-paced society, many of us have grown accustomed to quick fixes and processed meals. Yet, our bodies are finely tuned to thrive on nutrient-dense, unprocessed foods—the very essence of what nature provides. When we shift our focus from calorie counting and packaged diets to the rich, vibrant world of whole foods, we discover that what we eat is more than just fuel. It’s a dynamic conversation between the earth and our bodies, one that has profound effects on our overall health.

The Living Nutrient Network

Whole foods are not merely a collection of vitamins and minerals; rather, they are a living network of natural compounds that work together in harmony to support our well-being. Unlike processed foods that isolate and strip away many of these vital elements, whole foods retain enzymes, fiber, antioxidants, and phytonutrients that contribute to our body’s ability to heal and regenerate.

Consider the natural integrity of a fresh apple plucked straight from an orchard. Beyond its juicy sweetness lies a complex matrix of nutrients that interact synergistically to aid digestion, support the immune system, and promote cellular repair. This intricate interplay is something modern food production often overlooks, yet it’s precisely this cooperation that can unlock a level of health many of us have never experienced before.

Soil, Sunlight, and Sustenance: The Farm-To-Table Connection

What you consume begins long before it reaches your plate. The health of your food is inextricably linked to the vitality of the soil, the quality of the water, and the care with which it is cultivated. When you embrace a farm-to-table approach, you’re not just choosing fresh produce; you’re reconnecting with the source of life itself.

Local farms that practice organic and sustainable methods work to preserve the natural ecosystem. The result is produce that is richer in natural nutrients, harvested at the peak of its flavor and nutritional potential. This direct connection from soil to plate not only enhances the taste of your food but also ensures that you receive the maximum health benefits—a concept that challenges the conventional reliance on supermarket shelves filled with long-transported, nutritionally diminished goods.

A Nutrient Symphony: Beyond Isolated Vitamins

For years, nutritional science focused on individual vitamins and minerals, often in isolation. However, emerging research suggests that the real power of nutrition lies in the synergy of compounds found in whole foods. These foods deliver a full spectrum of nutrients in their natural form, creating a “nutrient symphony” that supports optimal bodily functions.

For instance, the fiber in whole grains isn’t just important for digestion; it also works in tandem with antioxidants and phytochemicals to lower inflammation and enhance the absorption of other nutrients. This holistic interaction within whole foods can offer benefits that isolated supplements simply can’t match. It’s a revelation that reminds us: when we eat in harmony with nature, we’re not just surviving—we’re thriving.

Reconnecting With Nature: The Farm-To-Table Advantage

Embracing a farm-to-table lifestyle means more than just choosing organic produce. It represents a commitment to a healthier, more balanced way of living. Local, seasonal foods bring with them the vibrancy and diversity of the natural world, which, in turn, fuels our bodies with energy and vitality.

Imagine a community where farmers, chefs, and consumers are all connected by a shared commitment to healthy, sustainable eating. Each bite becomes a testament to the care taken from the moment the seed was planted until it was harvested and served. This approach does more than nourish your body; it nurtures the local economy, preserves the environment, and strengthens the bond between you and the food you eat. In doing so, you’re not just choosing a meal—you’re embracing a philosophy that honors the natural cycles of life.

How Whole Foods Transform Your Body

The impact of whole foods on the body is both subtle and profound. When you switch from processed options to a diet rich in whole foods, several beneficial changes can occur:

• Enhanced Digestion: The natural fiber and enzymes in whole foods aid in the efficient breakdown and absorption of nutrients. This improves digestion and can alleviate common issues like bloating and constipation.
  
• Balanced Energy Levels: Whole foods release energy more slowly and steadily than processed foods, so you don’t experience the classic spikes and crashes that typically result from eating processed foods. This balanced energy helps maintain focus and sustains physical activity throughout the day.
  
• Reduced Inflammation: The antioxidants and phytonutrients present in whole foods work to combat inflammation, a common underlying factor in many chronic health conditions.
  
• Boosted Immunity: By providing a wide array of natural nutrients, whole foods strengthen the immune system, making your body more resilient to infections and illnesses.
  
• Optimized Metabolism: The nutrient-rich profile of whole foods supports efficient metabolic processes, helping your body convert food into energy effectively.
  

These benefits reveal that healthy eating is not merely about weight management or calorie restriction—it’s about restoring and maintaining the natural harmony within your body.

Embracing a New Perspective on Healthy Eating

The shift towards whole foods and farm-to-table practices invites us to reimagine our relationship with food. It challenges us to look beyond the superficial promises of quick fixes and instead invest in a lifestyle that nurtures our body at its most fundamental level.

This perspective offers a liberating insight: by aligning your diet with nature’s rhythms, you empower your body to tap into its innate ability to heal, regenerate, and perform at its best. The transformation is gradual yet profound—over time, you begin to feel more energized, mentally clear, and physically resilient. It’s a subtle change that, once noticed, becomes unmistakable, inviting you to further explore the deep connection between what you eat and how you feel.

Embracing the Full Spectrum of Natural Nutrition

In a world dominated by synthetic supplements and processed alternatives, whole foods remind us that nature provides the most complete nourishment. Every bite of farm-fresh produce is an opportunity to reconnect with the earth, to experience the full spectrum of natural nutrients that have evolved over millennia to support life.

By choosing whole foods, you are opting for a way of eating that respects the complexity and intelligence of nature. It’s a decision that goes beyond diet—it’s a commitment to a lifestyle that values authenticity, sustainability, and true health. Dherbs stands by this philosophy, offering products and guidance that complement a diet rich in natural, unprocessed foods, thereby supporting a holistic approach to well-being.

Final Reflections

When you truly consider the journey of food—from the fertile soil to your table—you begin to appreciate the remarkable impact that whole, natural foods can have on your body. This isn’t just a nostalgic return to simpler times; it’s a forward-thinking approach to health that leverages the timeless wisdom of nature. Embracing a farm-to-table lifestyle means investing in your body’s natural ability to heal and flourish—a realization that redefines what it means to eat well.

Step into this renewed perspective on healthy eating. Allow yourself to experience the transformative power of whole foods and reconnect with the natural world. In doing so, you’re not just consuming food; you’re nourishing your body, mind, and spirit with the pure, unadulterated gifts of nature.

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Summertime, and the eating’s easy. Summer barbecues, outdoor picnics, and beach days are all fun-in-the-sun events that involve food. The food options are not usually the healthiest options, though. With all of the beautiful, nutritious fruits and vegetables available during the summer months, though, you should focus your efforts on consuming as many of them as possible. Leave the hotdogs in the store and grab some seasonal produce!

Some of the fruits and vegetables that ripen during summer can be quite excellent for your heart. The reason for this is because they contain an assortment of antioxidant compounds. 

What Are Antioxidants?

If you are familiar with Dherbs, you know how much we love to discuss antioxidants. If you want to keep your body as healthy as possible, learn to love antioxidants. According to studies, antioxidants protect the cells in your body from damaging free radicals, or oxidants. These molecules are a byproduct of using oxygen and they can be introduced to the body via radiation, tobacco smoke, or environmental pollution. 

Antioxidants work by binding to these free radical molecules, preventing them from damaging other cells in the body. Some examples of antioxidants include:

• Vitamin A
• Vitamin C
• Vitamin E
• Lycopene
• Beta-carotene
• Selenium

The best seasonal produce you can get will be from the farmer’s market, but many local grocery stores offer local and organic produce items. There are plenty of options to choose from this summer, but the following options can help benefit your heart. 

Peaches

A summer classic, peaches come in both yellow and white varieties. The subtle orange hue of the flesh exists because of the antioxidant it contains. That antioxidant is beta-carotene, which the body converts to vitamin A as it breaks the food down. Beta-carotene may help reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke, but studies confirm that it will not help prevent coronary heart disease. 

Cherries

Sticking to the stone fruit family, we have cherries, which only have a limited window of availability of freshness. Both sweet and sour cherries can help decrease inflammation and boost heart health. Some studies suggest that sour cherry juice can drastically help your efforts to reduce the damaging effects, or potential damage, of oxidants. 

Tomatoes

These fruits (technically not vegetables) are high in lycopene, a natural compound that gives them their signature vibrant red color. Because of that, the skin is where most of the antioxidants are. One study found that a higher presence of lycopene in the body was associated with a lower risk of hypertension. Additionally, a separate study found that lycopene may exhibit anti-hypertensive effects in rats without causing hypotension. 

Strawberries

Before we get into the health benefits of strawberries, it is important to note that they usually are high on the Dirty Dozen list. For this reason, health experts encourage you to buy organic strawberries. Strawberries are the quintessential summer berry and contain a lot of vitamin C. As they ripen, they become more red, which means more antioxidants for you! Strawberries may help lower triglycerides and LDL cholesterol in the blood. Berry consumption has also been linked to better gut, immune, and cardiovascular function. 

Blueberries

Blueberries are an easy berry to say yes to if you want to improve heart health and enjoy brain-boosting benefits. The American Heart Association (AHA) encourages people to consume blueberries because they provide lots of fiber, which works to encourage optimal gut and heart health. Blueberries also contain anthocyanins, the antioxidant compounds that give blueberries their blue hue. 

Broccoli

Eating more broccoli is a great way to incorporate more greens into your diet, but it may also encourage healthier heart function. Many studies confirm that broccoli can help lower blood sugar, promote healthy digestion, and boost immune function. Researchers note that broccoli exhibits antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that may help support healthy blood pressure levels and lower LDL cholesterol. Broccoli is also rich in fiber, which can reduce your risk of coronary artery disease and cardiovascular disease.

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Pregnancy affects everyone differently, and the same applies to postpartum life. Just as both of these stages in life can be intense, emotional, or easy, so can breastfeeding, especially in the first few days after giving birth. Breastfeeding is worth it and being able to nourish your baby with your own body is nothing short of miraculous. Making sure the baby has a good latch from the beginning can help mitigate the pain. That said, breastfeeding is not a completely painless process, despite what you read. 

Go on any baby registry or talk to any mom or mom-to-be, and they will tell you that nipple cream is a must-have item. When you are in the trenches of learning to breastfeed, nipples can become irritated and sore. Some lactation experts recommend lanolin cream, but that doesn’t work if you are allergic to lanolin. 

What Is Lanolin?

Lanolin is the oil that is extracted from sheep’s wool. It undergoes a process to create finished lanolin, which is only problematic if you have a wool allergy. You also have to worry about potential pesticide residue found in wool. This can build up in fatty tissue or in breast milk if you apply it to your nipples. 

The reason for that is because a lot of sheep are sprayed with pesticides, which treat mites and various pests. Additionally, most sheep consume non-organic and GMO feed, traces of which are sometimes found in wool. Organic lanolin from healthy sheep exists, but it is hard to find. There are conflicting opinions and sources about the safety of lanolin, though. If you want to avoid the risk and be a little more careful with your little one’s first food, you may want a natural nipple cream.

Natural Nipple Cream

If you want to have an easier time with those first few days or weeks of nursing, you are going to need a soothing nipple cream. Because there are various natural nipple creams on the market, there is no need to make a DIY version. If you want to make your own because you want the assurance of knowing exactly what goes into the cream, this article provides an excellent DIY version. 

The baby may ingest some of the cream while nursing, so the goal is to use all-natural, safe ingredients for newborns. The ingredients in this cream have a low chance of allergic reaction. You’ll notice that it doesn’t contain almond oil, beeswax, or coconut oil, despite how beneficial those ingredients are to the skin. This is because they have a small chance of allergic reaction. This recipe is also free of essential oils for similar reasons, and because of their intensity. 

The Consistency

This nipple cream has a consistency that is more akin to a soft salve, but it is incredibly easy to apply. Should you desire a firmer cream, increase the amount of cocoa butter to one-third cup or more. You can also add some beeswax to thicken it, but there is a small chance that the baby could have an allergic reaction. Some evidence indicates that pesticides in inorganic beeswax may cause beeswax allergies. 

DIY Nipple Cream

Ingredients For Infused Oil:

• 1 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup chamomile flowers
• 1/4 cup calendula flowers
• 2 tablespoons marshmallow root
• Ingredients For Nipple Cream:
• 1/4 cup infused oil
• 1/4 cup cocoa butter

Instructions:

• You can make the infused oil one of three ways. The easiest way (provided you have time) is the solar method. 
• Add all of the ingredients to a pint-size mason jar, place in the sun, and shake daily for two to four weeks. Once the infusion is complete, use a metal strainer lined with a cheesecloth to strain the herbs. 
• The quicker method is to fill a small saucepan with an inch or two of water and place it over low heat. Add all of the ingredients to a mason jar and place the jar in the saucepan.
• Allow the ingredients to melt and stir every so often once melted. Make sure to replenish the water if it evaporates too much. 
• Once the infusion is complete, use a metal strainer lined with cheesecloth to strain out the herbs. 
• Once you have the infused oil, you can make the nipple cream. Add 1/4 cup of the infused oil and cocoa butter to a heat-safe glass jar and fill a small saucepan with an inch or two of water. Place the saucepan over low heat and place the glass jar in the saucepan. 
• Stir the oil and cocoa butter until melted. Remove from heat and pour the mixture into a heat-safe glass jar or tin. Allow to cool at room temperature and then use when needed. 
• Keep the balm in a cool, dry place.

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From non-organic strawberries to green beans and spinach, certain fruits and vegetables make the Environmental Working Group’s “Dirty Dozen” list each year. Government lab tests found pesticide residue in nearly all non-organic grapes, peaches, strawberries, green beans, and leafy greens like kale. 

This Environmental Working Group (EWG) makes an annual “Dirty Dozen” list for grocery shoppers. This list is intended to inform shoppers about the top non-organic fruits and vegetables with detectable levels of pesticides. This year, mustard greens, collard greens, and kale topped the list with the most pesticide residue. Reports detected 103 individual chemicals, while hot peppers were next with 101 chemicals. 

Health experts regularly encourage people to eat more fruits and vegetables, organic or not. If consumers are concerned about pesticide exposure, they can use the EWG’s “Dirty Dozen” and “Clean 15” lists  to make better choices for them and their families. Continue reading to learn more about these lists. 

Which Fruits And Vegetables Are On The “Dirty Dozen” List For 2024?

According to the EWG, the following produce items had the highest levels of pesticides by government testing analysis. Keep in mind that the following fruits and vegetables are not listed in any particular order of pesticide residue. 

• Strawberries
• Spinach
• Kale, collard greens, and mustard greens
• Peaches
• Grapes
• Cherries
• Nectarines
• Apples
• Blueberries
• Bell and hot peppers
• Green beans
• Pears

What Pesticides Were Found In The “Dirty Dozen”?

The EWG report noted that four of the five most frequently detected chemicals were fungicides. Two of these fungicides, pyrimethanil and fludioxonil, had the highest concentrations of any pesticides found in the dozen produce items. According to reports, these fungicides are known endocrine disruptors, interfering with the body’s hormone systems responsible for growth and reproduction. 

The reason that fungicides are more commonly detected in non-organic produce items is because they are applied to plants during the growing process. This is to help prevent or completely remove fungus, and they are applied post-harvest to keep produce mold-free during transportation. Before the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) tests for pesticides, the items are peeled, scrubbed, or washed. Despite the cleaning or peeling, testing still detected 254 different pesticides on fruits and vegetables, including the 209 different pesticides on the “Dirty Dozen” list. 

What About The “Clean 15” List For 2024?

The EWG also makes an annual list of non-organic produce that has the least amount of pesticides detected in lab tests. The great news about the foods on this year’s “Clean 15” list is that 65% of the food samples did not test positive for pesticide residue. Those 15 fruits and vegetables are listed below in no particular order:

• Papaya
• Avocados
• Kiwi
• Pineapple
• Asparagus
• Watermelon
• Sweet corn
• Mushrooms
• Sweet potatoes
• Frozen peas
• Onions
• Honeydew melon
• Carrots
• Cabbage
• Mangoes

You Should Still Eat Fruits And Vegetables

You can limit your exposure to pesticides, even if you cannot buy organic produce. Many people choose non-organic produce over organic produce because it is less expensive. If you choose to buy non-organic produce then you can feel confident in buying the items on the “Clean 15” list. Reserve your budget to buy organic versions of the produce items on the “Dirty Dozen” list. Additionally, health experts encourage people to thoroughly wash produce items with water and a baking soda or vinegar solution to help remove pesticide residue. Peeling the produce can also decrease the exposure to these chemicals. 

Clinical dietitians say that the benefits of eating fruits and vegetables outweighs the risks of pesticide exposure from certain non-organic produce items. All fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, whole grains, and legumes contain beneficial nutrients. Incorporating more plant-based foods into your diet will only benefit you in the long-run. The “Dirty Dozen” list is not intended to scare people away from eating healthy foods, despite their non-organic nature. The point is to simply inform shoppers so they can make decisions appropriately for themselves and their health. 

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About 75% of non-organic produce sold in the United States contains some residues of potentially harmful pesticides. The 2023 list of Dirty Dozen foods have the highest traces of pesticides, when compared to other produce items. Even though blueberries provide anti-inflammatory properties and green beans provide lots of fiber, they still joined the Environmental Working Group’s (EWG’s) Dirty Dozen list.

What Is The Dirty Dozen List?

Given what is known about pesticides, any exposure is problematic. New findings are particularly concerning for young children, as they are vulnerable to the negative effects of pesticide exposure. The Shopper’s Guide represents the EWG’s analysis of the latest fruit and vegetable testing data from the Department of Agriculture (USDA) and Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The data includes 46,569 samples of 46 fruits and vegetables. 

In 2022, strawberries and spinach held the top two spots on the Dirty Dozen list, followed by three greens, including kale, collards, and mustard. Peaches, nectarines, pears, apples, grapes, bell and hot peppers, and cherries were next. Blueberries and green beans rounded out the list in the 11th and 12th spots. Scientists noted a total of 210 pesticides in those 12 foods, with the greens containing the highest number of different pesticides. 

What Tests Determine The Dirty Dozen?

The USDA peels or scrubs and washes produce samples prior to testing, whereas the FDA only removes dirt before taking samples. Even after these steps, the tests revealed traces of 251 different pesticides. Pesticides are not intended for human consumption because they are intended to harm living organisms. They are inherently toxic to humans and can increase the risk of hormone dysfunction, cancer, and may harm the brain and nervous system. 

It is public knowledge that the consumption of fruits and vegetables is vital to a healthy diet and optimal health. If you are concerned about your exposure to pesticides via diet, pay close attention to the Dirty Dozen list that the EWG releases every year. For 2023, the Dirty Dozen list is as follows:

• Strawberries
• Spinach
• Kale, Collard Greens, & Mustard Greens
• Peaches
• Pears
• Nectarines
• Apples
• Grapes
• Bell & Hot Peppers
• Cherries
• Blueberries
• Green Beans

What Is The Clean 15 List?

Just as there is a dirty list, so too is there a clean list. Concerned consumers can choose conventionally grown fruits and vegetables from the EWG’s Clean 15 list. This list details crops that had the lowest traces of pesticides. In fact, about 65% of the foods on the list had no detectable levels of pesticides after testing. 

The reigning champion of the 2023 Clean 15 list was the mighty avocado. Sweet corn took second place, with pineapple, onions, papaya, frozen sweet peas, asparagus, honeydew melon, kiwi, cabbage, mangoes, sweet potatoes, watermelon, and carrots making up the rest of the list. Foods without traces of pesticides are especially important during pregnancy and childhood. Developing children require a combination of nutrients that have not been tainted by pesticides or other contaminants.

The Academy of American Pediatrics noted that exposure to pesticides in early childhood may increase the risk of learning problems, attention, and cancer. Exposure using pregnancy may increase the risk of birth defects or low birth rate. 

Switch To Organic Sources

You don’t want to give up on many fruits and vegetables just because they have higher levels of pesticides. Many of the fruits and vegetables on the Dirty Dozen list exhibit impressive health properties that are essential to a balanced diet. Instead of avoiding them, consider buying organic versions of those produce items. Organic does not insinuate that they have more nutrients; rather, it means that they have little to no pesticide residue. 

Studies have shown that people who switch to an organic diet have reduced levels of pesticides in their urine. If organic is not available or it is too expensive, consider peeling or washing the produce items thoroughly. Don’t use detergents or other advertised fruit and vegetable rinses. Rinsing with water will help reduce pesticide levels. Always rinse before peeling the fruit or vegetable and use a clean vegetable brush to scrub firm produce items like apples or melons. Finally, dry the produce with a clean paper towel to reduce bacteria that may still be present after rinsing.

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Keep your boots, purses, wallets, and car seats looking sharp and more water resistant with this all natural leather conditioner and boot wax. Not only is this two-ingredient wax affordable, but it is also free of chemicals and works on most types of leather. It’s great to conditioner your boots in late summer/early fall before the crisp, cold weather arrives. That helps preserve them during cold winter weather. We understand that it isn’t winter yet, but you can never prepare too early!

If you care for your leather boots, they’ll last you a long time. All-weather leather boots are great for walking around town or attending community events. Obviously, the higher quality the boot is, the better it will fare in the long run. Investing in quality boots, especially if you live in a place that endures harsh winter climate, will serve your feet better than cheap boots will. Real leather boots with quality lining and sturdy laces will transform your boot game for the better. And they’ll last longer if you regularly condition them. 

Why Condition Your Boots?

Beyond the scuffs, scrapes, or general wear and tear, leather boots are susceptible to drying out and cracking. In order to help your boots last longer and perform their best, you need to clean them and condition them regularly. You slap your shoes into water, dirt, grease, thousands of times as you wear them. The leather will remain water resistant if you keep it supple. If you spend the time to condition your boots a couple times a year, they will look as good in 15 years as they do now. 

What Does A Leather Conditioner Do?

Think of leather like your skin, in that it is fragile compared to tougher and rougher surfaces. That means that it requires protection and care. Unlike your skin, which receives nourishment from the body, leather on shoes does not receive nourishment, unless you provide it. A great leather conditioner is designed to be easily absorbed and helps to restore the flexibility of leather fibers. Leather is both flexible and durable, so long as you continue to condition it. Once leather loses the natural oils and moisture, the fibrous interweave starts to break down and crack. Once that happens, you will most likely have to replace your boots. 

DIY Boot Wax And Leather Conditioner

The two ingredients in the following recipe are coconut oil and beeswax. You don’t need anything else because leather can readily absorb these ingredients. Remember that you want to treat your boots with respect, especially if the leather is high quality. That means that you want to purchase organic coconut oil and organic beeswax pellets. With such clean ingredients, you can feel great about conditioning your leather boots. 

Ingredients:

• 4 ounces organic coconut oil
• 4 ounces organic beeswax pellets
• Silicone mold or metal tin
• Horsehair brush

Instructions:

• Add the coconut oil and beeswax to an Instant Pot and melt them using the “keep warm” feature. If you don’t want to use that method, you can add those two ingredients to a heat-safe glass bowl on top of a saucepan with an inch or two of simmering water.
• Once the ingredients are melted, pour the mixture into silicone molds or a metal tin. Let the mixture harden, which you can accelerate by placing in the freezer or fridge. 
• To use the wax, warm a wax disc or a little bit in your hands and spread generously over the boots. Use a horsehair brush to scrub and work the wax into the leather. Continue brushing the boots until the wax is worked into the leather.
• There’s no need to wait! Wear them right away!

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Are you lucky enough to have fruitful rosemary bushes around your home? Do you have so much rosemary that you don’t know what to do with it besides throw trimmings in the green trash bin? If you don’t want to cook with rosemary, you can harvest a bunch and incorporate them into homemade candles. This project uses a mixture of beeswax and soy wax, mason jars, rosemary sprigs, and essential oils. 

Rosemary Candles

Rosemary exhibits a floral aroma that has been used to aid memory and improve focus. When combined with the organic beeswax, rosemary’s scent is a bit more subtle and evergreen-like. The candles are very easy to make, so this is the perfect entry point if you are about to embark on your DIY journey. Plus, it is so much healthier to burn these candles than other scented store bought candles, which contain fragrances that have harmful toxins. 

Benefits Of Rosemary Aroma

Rosemary’s aroma holds core components, or the essence, of the plant’s compounds. The same is true for rosemary essential oil. Throughout history, rosemary has been used in various medicinal practices. The following health benefits have been associated with rosemary essential oil.

Repels Certain Bugs

Rosemary makes for a great addition to your garden because many insects are deterred by the plant’s scent. The same is true for rosemary essential oil, which may help repel spider mites and mosquitoes. When measured against 11 other essential oils, rosemary essential oil provided the longest repellent effect on mosquitoes. 

May Ease Stress

There are many things in this life that can cause stress, and inhaling some rosemary essential oil may help calm your mind. One study monitored nursing students who breathed rosemary oil from an inhaler before and during test time. Their pulse decreased by about nine percent, but no significant change occurred without rosemary oil. Additionally, another study monitored adults who sniffed rosemary oil for five minutes. Their saliva had 23% lower levels of cortisol (the stress hormone) compared to those who smelled a non-aromatic compound. 

May Improve Brain Function

According to research, inhaling rosemary oil may prevent the breakdown of acetylcholine, a brain chemical that you need for concentration and memory. In an observational study, 20 young adults had to answer math questions in a room diffused with rosemary oil. Their speed and accuracy increased in direct proportion to the duration the oil was diffused. Similarly, nursing students inhaled rosemary oil while taking a test. Researchers noted improved concentration and information recall compared to a group that inhaled lavender oil. 

Homemade Rosemary Candles

Ingredients:

• Rosemary sprigs
• 1/2 pound organic beeswax
• 1/2 pound soy wax
• HTP62 waxed and tabbed candle wicks 6”
• 6 milliliters fir essential oil
• 4 milliliters bergamot essential oil
• 4 milliliters cedarwood essential oil
• 1 milliliter juniper berry essential oil
• 2 eight-ounce canning jars

Instructions:

• After harvesting your rosemary sprigs, press them flat between two heavy books or pans. Leave them sandwiched between those heavy objects until completely dry. 
• Cut the sprigs so that they will sit one inch below the rims of the jars. 
• Measure out your essential oils in a glass container and swirl gently to combine. Set aside while you prepare the candles. 
• In the top of a double boiler over medium-low heat, melt the beeswax and soy wax. As the wax is melting, grab some rosemary sprigs with tongs and dip the bottoms into the wax. Transfer these sprigs to the canning jars and adhere them to the insides of the bottoms with the waxy ends. You can use a wooden chopstick or paintbrush to help keep them in place as they dry.
• Cut your wicks so that they just go over the top lips of the jars. Use clothespins or a wooden down to keep the wicks centered in the jars. 
• Once the wax is fully melted, remove from heat and stir in the essential oil mixture using a wooden utensil. 
• Pour the wax mixture into each jar and allow the wax to harden fully. It should take about 48 hours or so, and then you can trim the wick, light, and enjoy!

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Nowadays, self-care is something you need to pencil into your schedule because of the fast-paced lives we leave. It’s too easy to neglect yourself and burn out. Carving out time every week to rest, reset, and relax can make all the difference to your physical and mental health. Self-care doesn’t just have to be a meditation session in a tranquil environment, either. In fact, pampering your skin, soaking in a bath, or curling up with a book all fall under the self-care umbrella. 

Face masks can be an excellent way to rejuvenate your facial skin. Because you have to leave the mask on for a certain amount of time, you are forced to rest and take a timeout from life. Don’t do chores with your face mask on. Lay down, listen to a podcast or your favorite album, and then rinse away. Apply your moisturizer and then wind down for the evening, attempting to leave screens out of sight in order to fall asleep with ease. 

The face mask in this article is very easy to make, and the ingredients may surprise you. You may already have some, or all, of the ingredients in your kitchen! Read on to learn how these ingredients benefit your skin. 

Avocado

Filled with natural oils, avocados do an excellent job at moisturizing your skin. The healthy fats work to enhance hydration, while the antioxidants help reduce redness and minor inflammation. Some research states that avocados can help get rid of dead skin cells, allowing the growth for new, healthy skin cells. The primary benefit is that avocados optimize moisture levels, and moisturized skin helps reduce the risk of fine lines, blemishes, and wrinkles. 

Plain Yogurt

It’s important that you don’t slather strawberry banana yogurt on the skin. Sugary yogurts don’t offer the same benefits, and they may do more harm than good. Similar to avocado, plain yogurt works to remove dead skin cells and provide optimal moisture to the skin. Studies show that using yogurt as a face mask can help reduce the appearance of blemishes and fine lines. Additionally, yogurt may tighten the skin and help get rid of dark circles under the eyes after consistent use.

Lemon Juice

Lemon contains citric acid, making it an effective solution to help brighten your skin. Researchers note that lemon may also help lighten dark spots, reduce premature signs of aging, and get rid of acne, but this depends on the person’s skin. It’s possible for lemon to cause a burning sensation or slight irritation on the skin, especially if you have sensitive skin. Consult a dermatologist before adding lemon to your skin care regimen. 

Honey

Organic raw honey contains vital nutrients that can be very beneficial for people who suffer from acne and other inflammatory skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis. Studies show that applying honey to the skin may help reduce the overgrowth of candida. Raw honey helps balance the bacteria on the skin, making it an effective anti-acne product. Researchers note that raw honey accelerates the healing processes of skin cells. You can also use raw honey as a spot treatment on the face. 

DIY Hydrating Avocado Face Mask

Ingredients:

• 1 ripe avocado, pitted and peeled
• 1/3 cup plain yogurt
• 2 teaspoons organic raw honey
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Instructions:

• Add all of the ingredients to a blender or food processor and blend until smooth. 
• Wash your face with a cleanser, pat dry, and then apply the mask liberally to your face and neck. 
• Allow the mask to sit on your face for 20 minutes before washing off and applying a moisturizer.

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With so many skin care products on the market today, choosing the right ones can be very difficult. It’s hard to know which ones are synthetic and which ones are natural. Even the “natural” and “chemical-free” products can contain harmful ingredients. Most products have the potential to benefit your skin, but natural, homemade skin care products are often the better choice. 

It is very difficult to trust products that have a long list of ingredients, especially if you can’t pronounce them. A product may claim to be “natural” or “organic,” but a lot of greenwashing occurs in the beauty industry. That means a company uses misleading labels and language, environmental imagery, or hidden tradeoffs that makes it seem sustainable and natural. In fact, a product can claim to be natural even if it only has a few natural ingredients. A drop of essential oil can make a product natural. These products may also contain ingredients that are not certified natural or organic. 

For those reasons and and more, we encourage people to make their own beauty products when possible. Consider the following reasons to make DIY skin care products. Let us know if you agree or disagree in the comments below. Have you made your own products before? We’d love to hear from you, especially if it was a recipe that we posted!

Better For The Environment

Natural skin care products are simply better for the environment than synthetic alternatives. Synthetic chemicals can harm animals and plants that they come in contact with. If those synthetic chemicals seep into the ground, they can wreak havoc on surrounding ecosystems. The manufacturing of traditional skin care products can also lead to environmental pollution. Companies need to extract certain ingredients, such as aluminum or lead, in order to make products. DIY skin care products don’t need mining or manufacturing because they use simple, natural ingredients. 

You Decide What Goes Into The Products

When you make your own skin care products, you know exactly what goes into them. If a body butter recipe contains shea butter, almond oil, coconut oil, and some essential oils, you know that there are no other fragrances, stabilizers, or chemical additives. Using natural ingredients on the skin helps reduce the risk of common skin reactions that can result from chemicals in skin care products. 

Learn What Works For Your Skin

As previously mentioned, store bought skin care products contain a long list of harmful ingredients. That can make it difficult to determine which ingredients are the best for your skin. The great thing about DIY skin care products is that you can customize them with ingredients that your skin needs. Cater to your skin type or skin condition/ailment to boost the overall health of your skin. You can also research which ingredients have the best compounds, vitamins, and other nutrients that benefit your skin type. 

Streamline Your Routine

Homemade skin care products contain simple ingredients, but they don’t just serve one purpose. What we mean by this is that a facial lotion can double as a deodorant. Homemade shaving cream may also serve as a post-shower moisturizer. Sometimes, you can even use raw ingredients, like shea butter, on their own to help improve skin barrier function and promote hydration and moisture. 

Manufacturing Doesn’t Harm Animals

A lot of big skin care manufacturers continue to test their products on animals. This is a detriment to the wellbeing of animals that receive testing. Fortunately, not all skin care product manufacturers use animal testing, so no harm is done to living beings. These are the more ethical companies that don’t contain a lot of synthetic materials. If you are against inhumane treatment of animals and testing, natural DIY skin care products are the way to go. 

They’re Easier On The Skin

Synthetic skin care products are very harmful to certain skin types. Ingredients in those products can cause swelling, redness, rash, itchiness, or a serious allergic reaction. Look out for paragons, sulfates, synthetic dyes, propylene, petrochemicals, triclosan, and more. You don’t have to worry about that when you use DIY skin care products. Natural ingredients don’t contain chemical irritants and instead of being detrimental to the skin, they actually nourish it.

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