In the pursuit of a greener clean, you will eventually come to the conclusion that store-bought cleaners are more expensive than they are worth.

Walk down any cleaning aisle and you can smell the myriad of chemicals, the ones that you are about to cover your home with, and wash down your drain.

Conventional cleaners not only make you – and your pets! – sick, they can be extremely harmful to the environment too.

Rather than shop by colorful packaging, fancy words and intelligent advertising, go the DIY home cleaning route and start making it a routine to keep your home healthy and clean.

6 Homemade Floor Cleaners For a Green Clean

In order to choose the best natural floor cleaner for your home, you’ll have to know what surfaces need cleaning.

Are they wood, tile, brick, cork or laminate?

The best way to keep your home clean is by regular decluttering and weekly cleaning. Discover the cleaning routine that works best for you and stick to it. In the meantime, let’s go over six homemade floor cleaning recipes that you may need for spotless floors throughout your home.

All-Purpose Floor Cleaner

If you have vinyl, linoleum, laminate or tile floors in your home, all you need is 4 ingredients for a sparkling clean.

A good basic recipe for an all-purpose floor cleaner goes like this:

• 2 cups warm water
• 1/2 cup vinegar
• 1/4 cup rubbing alcohol
• 3 drops biodegradable soap
• 5-10 drops essential oil (pine, peppermint, rosemary, lemon)

Combine all ingredients in a glass/ceramic bowl, then add them to a glass spray bottle and shake well before spraying on the floor. Wipe immediately with a mop.

As much as we love Castile soap, do not combine it with vinegar: if you do, you’ll end up with more streaks and smears than you started with.

Homemade Wood Floor Cleaner

Wood floors can certainly take a beating! Over time, it can lead to a beautiful patina, but it can also be considered ugly and undesirable with nicks and grooves.

If you start with a well installed floor, keeping it clean will be easy if you sweep and mop often enough.

And the recipe is super simple, all you need for a natural hardwood floor cleaner is:

• 2 cups warm water
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 2 drops of essential oil

Same as before, mix all ingredients in a glass spray bottle and spray as you mop, in small sections at a time, so as to not let it dry directly on the floor.

Before mopping, make it a general practice to sweep or vacuum dust/hair first before spraying with any solution, homemade or not.

DIY Tile Floor Cleaner

Tiles floors look elegant when clean, but when there are spills, they quickly become spotted with the most obvious “stains”. Even a bit of dried water can look like a mess.

As such, tile floors must be cleaned often.

Harsh chemicals such as bleach can damage sealants on the tiles and stains can discolor the grout if they sit too long.

If you have tile floors in your bathroom or kitchen, try out these 5 natural ways to clean tile, courtesy of Rainbow Intl.

This DIY All-Natural Orange Vinegar from Bren Did is simply amazing:

1. Start with lemon, orange or lime peels (just the peels!) and load them in a glass jar with a lid.

2. Cover the peels with white vinegar.

3. Let them sit for 3 weeks in a dark place as the vinegar becomes citrus scented.

4. Strain the peels, transfer to a glass spray bottle and use liberally on all tile surfaces.

Rather than throw those vinegar-infused citrus peels away, save them for cleaning the sink garbage disposal. Toss them in and follow up with boiling water.

Homemade Disinfecting Floor Cleaner

With kids and pets in the home, cleaning can become quite a chore.

But it can be a pleasant one at that, provided no harmful chemicals are involved.

If you are inclined to disinfect your floors with bleach or other harsh chemicals, know that there are natural options that really work.

Floor disinfectant ingredients:

• 1/2 cup white vinegar
• 2 cups hot water
• 10-15 drops tea tree oil
• 1 teaspoon washing soda (optional)

Mix all ingredients in a glass spray bottle, shake before spraying on floors or countertops. This is a multi-purpose disinfectant, use it anywhere you see fit.

A side note: do not use vinegar on marble or granite! The acid will slowly eat it away. Use these 4 Homemade Marble Cleaner Recipes instead @ Tips Bulletin

Natural Laminate Floor Cleaner

Out of all flooring, this is perhaps the easiest to take care of. Hot water will often do the trick, or add in a little vinegar for an extra cleaning kick.

Sometimes, though, they will end up sticky with a tiny screech at every step.

Remember that we never mix vinegar and Castile soap? We are following the same principle here.

Instead you will be mixing:

• 3 cups warm water
• 3 drops Castile soap
• 5 drops citrus essential oil
• 2 drops tea tree oil (optional)

Feel free to add any essential oils to this all natural laminate floor cleaner that you enjoy smelling around your home.

After all, this is one of the most important things about natural cleaning – the aromatherapy session that comes along with it.

Vinegar Floor Cleaner

Vinegar is one of the most wonderful substances made from natural ingredients. If you can also eat it, then all the better for you and the Earth!

To make an eco-friendly floor cleaner you’ll need just a few ingredients:

• A bucketful of hot water
• 1/2 cup vinegar
• 1/2 cup rubbing alcohol or vodka
• 2 tablespoons biodegradable dish soap
• 10-15 drops essential oil (your choice)

Mix all ingredients together in a bucket, mop until your heart is content, or at least until your floor is completely clean.

If you see streaks, simply mop over the floor again with hot water to get rid of any soapy residues.

Once you’ve found the perfect natural cleaning solution for your floors, move onto a natural laundry routine to help simplify your life and green your wardrobe.

The post 6 All Natural Floor Cleaners – DIY Recipes For A Green Clean appeared first on Natural Living Ideas.

Minimalists realize that the years we spend working, saving, paying a mortgage and needlessly accumulating a mass of ‘stuff’ don’t actually equate to happiness.

They believe that our possessions only serve to distract us from what’s really important – living a full, meaningful and joyous life.

Today the average US person has as much individual space in their home as an entire 1950s family shared. Naturally, you would think these bigger houses could cope with all our material possessions but, scarily, there are now more self-storage facilities in America than McDonald’s restaurants!

At the same time, research says that Americans are more depressed now than they have been in decades.

Clearly, material goods don’t build happiness…so maybe minimalism is the way to go!

Why not check out these 31 ways to de-clutter your home and life and see if it works for you?

Write down your reasons for de-cluttering.

This list will help motivate you to get started and keep you on track throughout the process. Some of your reasons might include saving money, feeling less stressed, having more time to spend with family and friends, or simply having a nicer home!

Reclaim your time!

Americans spend 9.1 years of their lives watching TV, 1.1 years cleaning and 11 hours a day in front of digital media. In particular, women spend 8 years of their lives shopping, 1.5 years doing their hair and nearly 1 year deciding what to wear!

Living a more minimalist lifestyle means we can reclaim some of this wasted time and spend it doing something we love – rather than standing in front of a jam-packed wardrobe despairing over which shoes work with which skirt!

Decide what you love doing and aim to spend your time doing it over these other pointless tasks!

Decide on the value of your items.

Minimalism isn’t about simply getting rid of excess possessions, it’s about choosing to give more weight to those you value the most. Instead of having twenty framed photos that you like, choose to display five that you love. Once you’ve decided which items cannot be parted with, and which you feel more comfortable letting go of, you can begin the process of actually letting go.

Store things out of sight.

If it doesn’t have to be on display, or you don’t use it every day, then put it away. That goes for your juicer, crock-pot, curling tongs etc.

If you can’t eliminate, reduce.

Do you really need ten sets of bedlinen for your two-bedroom apartment? Or twenty bath towels for a family of four? Chances are, you don’t. Donate, dump or repurpose these excess items and free up space.

Sort out your wardrobe.

Have you heard of Project 333? This minimalist fashion challenge is so effective that it has been featured on The Today Show website and O, The Oprah Magazine.

Its premise is simple – choose 33 items of clothing (or less) that will see you through the next 3 months and donate or store the rest. Pick classic, neutral pieces and you’ll never be stuck for something to wear. Even better, choosing your outfit every morning will be a cinch.

Set up a charity box.

Get the biggest box you can find (or, better yet, get several!) and fill it with all those items you no longer use, or those you value the least. Donate these items to a charity store – you’ll be helping the environment too as producing new items to meet demand wastes a lot of energy and water, and contributes to pollution.

The 6-month box challenge.

This is a great idea for those items you’re on the fence about getting rid of. Like that dress you almost fit into, or that camera you’re going to learn how to use any day now.

Place items like these in a box, seal it and date it. If you haven’t opened it within six months, then it has got to go!

Dump the ‘just in case’ stuff!

Things like random screws, 6 inch pieces of string, one-off buttons, the end of a roll of insulation tape and all those other junk items you’re hoarding ‘just in case’ have got to go!

Try the 20/20 rule. If you can replace it for $20, and can source it within 20 minutes of your home, then you can get rid of it safe in the knowledge it’s easily replaceable if needed.

Evaluate your sentimental items.

Letting go of sentimental things can often be the hardest. But this brings us back to point number three – ‘decide on the value of your items’. Chances are ticket stubs from concerts you barely remember, or cards from a birthday two decades ago, aren’t bringing you much value.

Simplify your morning routine.

Start the day as you mean to go on…and simplify! Streamline your personal care routine, in your newly de-cluttered bathroom, and then enjoy a simple breakfast in your minimalist kitchen.

Take some time out to stretch, meditate, read, savor your coffee, or do whatever else makes you happy. Just keep it simple.

Clear out your car.

A fuss-free morning ritual and clean home aren’t going to be much good if, the second you step out the door and hop in your ride, you’re confronted with a hoard of sweaters, books, empty coffee cups and candy wrappers. Eliminating the extra weight from your car will help it run more efficiently too.

Simplify the garden.

Gardens can be tranquil and calming. But not if they’re filled with junk like dilapidated wooden furniture, overgrown shrubs and out of control weeds.

Spend a therapeutic afternoon outside clearing space and taking in the fresh air so you can enjoy uncluttered views all year round.

Digitize everything.

While the digital age can add to the clutter of our lives, sometimes it can be an incredible minimalist tool.

Embrace technology and get rid of the piles of paper on your desk and in your filing cabinet. Actually, once you scan all of your documents, you can get rid of the filing cabinet too.

Digitize your old photos and even those old concert tickets and they’ll be safe forever – backed up to an online storage system.

Embrace new media.

Cancel your magazine subscription and stop buying the newspaper. Not only will Mother Nature be glad, but you will too.

You don’t have to miss out though, as everything you need can be consumed in digital format. While you’re at it, ‘opt out’ of junk mail and sign up for e-banking.

Minimize your old media.

One television is all you need in the house, as is one radio, one phone etc. You can easily record anything you really want to see or hear or catch it again online. Use the time you’re not wasting in front of the box doing things that bring you joy and help you better yourself.

Pare down your social media.

Three out of five US smartphone users can’t go more than 60 minutes without checking their phones. A lot of this is due to the constant stream of incoming messages on our social media feeds – Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest, YouTube and a whole lot more.

Unfollow, hide or reset your notifications so that you only receive updates on things you’re truly interested in…or break free altogether!

Take a break from technology.

Every so often take an hour, a day or a whole weekend where you completely switch off from technology.

Enjoy the great outdoors, read, cook, work out or actually have a conversation with your loved ones. You’ll be surprised at how much more enjoyable these moments are without constant digital interruptions.

Borrow, don’t buy.

If you need something for a one-off event, like a party, ask friends or neighbors for extra tableware and equipment. Minimalist bookworms would benefit from joining a library or a book exchange. It’s environmentally conscious and means you don’t miss out or compromise your minimalist values.

Buy experiences, not things.

Instead of treating yourself to a new pair of shoes or yet another expensive perfume, invest in an experience.

Go to a wine tasting class, a cookery demo, try kayaking, or book a weekend break. These things will make memories that last far longer than shoes ever would!

The ’one in, one out’ rule.

If you really have to buy something new, then swap something else out. This way you’re guaranteed not to slip back into your old, clutter-filled ways.

Forget about sales.

Sales are far too tempting…especially for shopaholics! Within an hour or two of hitting a sale, your newly pared down wardrobe will be bursting at the seams and your kitchen will be filled with all sorts of unnecessary gadgets.

Along with the temptation of impulse buying, there’s also the fact that many sale items tend to be lower quality produce that didn’t sell for full whack – meaning they’re just not worth it! Which brings us to the next point…

Quality over quantity.

It’s better to have one really good quality, beautiful pair of shoes (or rug or painting etc.) than to have five pairs of mediocre shoes. Even though higher quality items may cost more, they look better, work more effectively and last longer than lower quality items…meaning they work out cheaper over time.

The quality over quantity rule of minimalism goes for all aspects of your life – from friendships to pastimes and parties.

Learn how to say ‘no’.

This can be tricky for many but it’s a vital step in simplifying your lifestyle. Learn how to politely decline offers to events you don’t want to attend; offers of free items; and requests to take on additional responsibility. The more you practice saying ‘no’, the more natural it will become.

Delegate.

Once you’ve perfected the art of politely declining, turn your attention to delegating. Ask other family members to take over their fair share of the cleaning, cooking and grocery shopping and get them involved in de-cluttering the home.

De-clutter your diet.

Bring the minimalist ethos into your pantry. Choose simple, locally grown and organic whole foods. Say good bye to prepackaged junk taking up freezer space and generating a ton of environmentally unfriendly wrapping. You’ll look and feel better in no time.

Cut down on cooking time.

Dust off your crock-pot and set it to simmer away while you relax (here are some delicious crock-pot recipes to try).

Make sure to cook extra for dinner, and have it for lunch the next day. Or batch cook and freeze so you have healthy, fresh and homemade meals on hand leaving your evenings free to spend your time how you really want to.

Use multi-purpose products.

A really simple way to keep a minimalist house is to always keep multi-purpose items on hand.

Take coconut oil for example. It works for cooking and baking, and as a coffee creamer but it can also be used as furniture polish, moisturizer, hair treatment, toothpaste and so much more.

In fact, here are 25 uses of coconut oil from the experts. Items like baking soda, apple cider vinegar, Epsom salt and essential oils also have multiple uses.

Vow to get rid of one item every day.

Ditching just one item every day – no matter how small – means that you’ll have 365 less things to worry about at the end of the year. If you take on the minimalist challenge this year, it’ll be 365 less things!

Forget about perfection.

Perfectionism is futile and unattainable. It’s also a hindrance in your bid to de-clutter your life – think of how many times your need to be perfect has led you to buy something, or take on something extra.

Let go of the need to be perfect – even to be the ‘perfect’ minimalist – and just strive to learn and grow.

Accept that minimalism is a journey.

Minimalism is about achieving a more meaningful life which requires periodic reassessment – of possessions, pastimes, jobs and relationships. Its premise is simple – the more you let go, the more you gain. Keep letting go and see where it takes you!

The post 31 Minimalist Hacks – De-clutter Your Life In Just One Month appeared first on Natural Living Ideas.

Epsom salt is best known as a component of bath salts, but it offers a wide range of uses, from soothing sore muscles, benefiting health and improving a gardener’s crops to household cleaning, enhancing beauty and more.

It was discovered in the 17th century, first distilled from the water of a bitter saline spring at Epsom, in Surrey, England.

What is Epsom salt?

Epsom salt is different from traditional salt in that it’s actually a mineral compound of magnesium and sulfate, and is technically known as magnesium sulfate.

It’s composed of tiny, colorless crystals that look like table salt, but it’s actually a completely different thing, as table salt is made up of sodium chloride.

Magnesium sulfate is a mineral that many of us are lacking in, as levels have been decreasing over the last three to four decades around the world.

The lack of this important nutrient in our bodies is due to a combination of issues, including over development of agricultural land that leaches essential minerals like magnesium and other trace elements from the soil, the overuse of prescription medications, the consumption of processed and fast foods, and more.

All of these things take a toll, depleting our body of magnesium, which is one of the reasons Epsom salt can be an important part of improving one’s health.

It’s also a natural anti-inflammatory and exfoliant that can be used for treating muscle aches and dry skin. Soak in a warm bath with a cupful of Epsom salt, to enjoy its renowned therapeutic and healing properties, inside and out.

This article reveals twenty of the best ways to use your tub of Epsom salt.

1. Relax Your Body

Epsom salts dissolved in warm water – like those in an Epsom salt bath – are easily absorbed through the skin where they immediately go to work inside our bodies.

The magnesium ions break apart from Epsom salt molecules and begin to relieve stress by promoting the production of serotonin and reducing the effects of adrenaline.

Magnesium also plays a critical role in the production of energy in cells, helping us to feel invigorated without causing feelings of restlessness or anxiety.

To find out how to make your own Epsom salt bath and nine reasons you should have a soak in one today, have a read of our recent article here. 

2. Relieve Pain and Cramping

Epsom salts absorbed through the skin also work to relieve muscle tension, pain, and inflammation in joints.

Submerge yourself in a warm Epsom salt bath to alleviate tension headaches or soothe abdominal cramps. Tired and sore feet will also benefit from the therapeutic warmth of an Epsom salt soak.

3. Muscle and Nerve Function

Aside from relieving tension, pain, and cramping, Magnesium sulfate has several other positive effects on the human body.

It aids in many enzymatic functions, helps to regulate fluid retention in cells, and facilitates the body’s use of calcium to transmit chemical signals throughout the nervous system.

4. For Arterial Health

Epsom salts may help to improve circulation and prevent serious cardiovascular illness by decreasing inflammation and protecting the elasticity of arteries.

Healthier arteries means less risk of blood clots, plaque build-up, and damage to arterial walls.

Try soaking in an Epsom salt bath three to four times per week to reduce stress, lower blood pressure, and improve your cardiovascular health.

5. Regulate Blood Sugar

Both magnesium and sulfate help to improve the body’s ability to produce and use insulin.

Regular intake of Epsom salts – either orally or transdermally – may help to regulate blood sugar, lowering the risk of diabetes and improving your overall daily energy levels.

6. Relieves Constipation

One of Epsom salt’s more popular uses is as a saline laxative. Dissolve one teaspoon of Epsom salts into a cup of warm water and drink.

Note, this remedy should not be used more than once per day.

If symptoms persist for more than a few days, it is always recommended to consult with a physician.

7. Helps to Remove Splinters

To dislodge a stubborn splinter, simply soak the affected body part in warm water and Epsom salts for a few minutes.

Magnesium sulfate will reduce the inflammation around the wound and soften up the splinter, making it much easier to remove.

8. Soothe Sprains and Bruises

Anti-inflammatory Epsom salts can be used to alleviate the soreness from sprains and bruises.

Just add two cups of salts to your warm bath water and soak away the ache.

9. Keep Feet Healthy

It’s pretty common knowledge that soaking your feet in Epsom salts is good for soothing away aches and pains.

But did you know that it can also help to treat athlete’s foot and toenail fungal infections?

Simply add a half cup of Epsom salts to warm water and soak your feet for as long as you want (or until the water gets cold) to alleviate the itching and burning and help heal feet faster.

(Further reading: Top 10 Natural Remedies For Toenail Fungus)

10. Ease Discomfort of Gout

Add a couple of tablespoons of Epsom salts to hot water and soak body parts affected by gout.

Magnesium sulfate quickly soaks through skin and into the swollen, aching joints to help alleviate pain and inflammation.

11. Exfoliate Your Skin

By rubbing a handful of Epsom salts over damp skin, you can easily remove dead cells, helping your skin to look healthier and feel softer.

Use this treatment on hands, feet, and everything in between.

12. Natural Face Cleanser

At night before bed, mix a teaspoon of Epsom salts with your regular cleanser for an easy daily treatment or use this recipe for an exfoliating face mask, compliments of preparednessmama.com:

Finely chop a small ripe tomato and mix in one pureed egg white, half a teaspoon of vitamin B5 powder, one teaspoon each of aloe vera gel and Epsom salts, and a couple of drops of Thyme essential oil.

Apply mixture to face for 15 minutes then rinse with lukewarm water for an excellent clarifying skin treatment.

13. Dislodge Blackheads

Use Epsom salts to remove dead skin and oil from your pores.

First, you’ll want to exfoliate to remove any dead skin from around the outsides of the blemishes.

Then mix one teaspoon of Epsom salts and four drops of iodine into half a cup of hot water.

Stir until salts are completely dissolved and let the mixture cool until it is still warm, but not hot.

Massage the mixture into skin affected with blackheads, let it dry completely, then wash your face with warm water and pat dry with a clean cloth.

(Further reading: 12 Quick Natural Remedies For Blackheads Backed By Science)

14. Remove Styling Product Build-up

To remove build-up of hairspray or other styling product from your hair, mix one cup each of Epsom salts and lemon juice into a gallon of water.

Cover and let the concoction sit for 24 hours before using.

Then simply pour over hair and leave it on for about 15 – 20 minutes. Follow up with a wash and condition as usual.

15. Add Volume to Hair

To add body to your hair, try mixing equal parts all-natural, sulfate-free deep conditioner and Epsom salts.

Warm the mixture to slightly above body temperature then work through hair. Leave in for 15 – 20 minutes then rinse.

Feel free to follow up this hair treatment by waving your hair around your face (like the people in those television commercials for chemical hair products) and remember: Laughter is a great natural remedy for all kinds of things!

(Further reading: 28 Best Herbs For Hair Growth)

16. Wash Pots and Pans

Pour a small amount of Epsom salts into those really-dirty dishes before you scrub them.

The abrasive texture of the salt crystals will help to remove stuck-on food more easily without hurting your cookware.

17. Clean Tile and Grout

Mix equal parts Epsom salts and liquid dish detergent to create a super effective tile and grout cleaner.

Apply this mixture to dirty or stained surfaces in the bathroom, kitchen, or even outside and allow it to soak in for a minute or two.

Then scrub away the loosened grime and rinse clean.

18. As a Hand Wash

Mix equal parts Epsom salts and baby oil to create a moisturizing hand cleanser.

Store this mixture in bottles next to all of the sinks around your home and use regularly to keep hands soft and clean.

19. Removes Detergent Build-up

Over time, laundry detergent and other contaminants may build up inside machines.

Use Epsom salts to remove this unwanted gunk and keep your washer running more efficiently.

Fill your empty washing machine with hot water, add a quart of clear vinegar and one cup of Epsom salts, let the machine agitate for about a minute, then stop the cycle and let the solution soak for about an hour.

20. In The Garden

Magnesium sulfate may be used to fertilize your plants, green up your lawn, remove unwanted insect pests, and prevent slugs among other things.

Check out this article for ten incredible Epsom salt uses in the garden.

Buying Epsom Salt

Looking to buy a bag of Epsom salt to use in your home? Here are four great options available on Amazon.

Pin This To Save For Later

The post 20 Epsom Salt Uses That Go Way Beyond A Relaxing Bath appeared first on Natural Living Ideas.

We’d probably all like to have a nicely scented home, but is it really worth sacrificing our good health, and the health of our planet?

Most people probably don’t think twice about using air fresheners, plugging them in and enjoying a “Summer Breeze”, without the understanding that it could be damaging their health, not to mention the health of one’s family, including unborn children and pets.

While there’s no doubt that the plug-in type is a big improvement over sprays, which lead to a direct breakdown of ozone in the stratosphere, that doesn’t mean they deserve a clean bill of environmental health either.

Air fresheners can contain volatile organic compounds, or VOCs, a class of chemicals that are well known to be hazardous to the environment as well as human health. In just one example, the University of Washington’s Anne Steinemann demonstrated that several of the leading air-freshener brands contained both a probable human carcinogen and a federally-designated hazardous air pollutant known as acetaldehyde.

The residual chemicals in air freshening products are known to accumulate in continually increasing amounts in the body over time, which means when health consequences eventually occur, they’re almost never attributed to them.

While many people were excited about the new plug-in types of air fresheners, it turns out, what we believed was the latest and greatest technology for filling our homes with a scented aroma, was not. In fact, scientists have uncovered numerous toxic substance in what seems like a fairly innocuous device.

Those toxic compounds include:

Phthalates. Phthalates come with many risks. Most have been linked to reproductive abnormalities, interfering with the production of testosterone, the male hormone.

The Natural Resources Defence Council (NRDC) found that when testing over a dozen different air fresheners, the majority contained these chemicals that are also listed on the State of California’s list of toxic substances “known to cause birth defects or reproductive harm.” The NRDC has also stated that phthalates in the air we breathe can lead to asthma and allergy symptoms even in only trace amounts.

Naphthalene. The majority of plug-in air fresheners brands contain a chemical known as naphthalene which has been found to cause tissue damage and even lung cancer in laboratory rats and is suspected to have a similar effect in humans.

Formaldehyde. A well-known human carcinogen, formaldehyde is commonly used in air fresheners and other household products and has been definitively associated with nose and throat cancer. It can also lead to the chronic irritation of airways and the throat, potentially causing serious infection, asthma, and other respiratory issues, as the U.S. government National Toxicology Program reports.

Volatile Organic Compounds. As we mentioned VOCs are compounds that are used to help disperse scents in air fresheners, but these are harmful chemicals too.

Just one of the VOCs in air fresheners, 1,4-Dichlorobenzene, has been found in the bloodstreams of 96% of U.S. adults, an EPA registered pesticide and a known carcinogen that’s been linked to lung damage.

Another VOC, dichlorobenzene, was found to be the cause of death in many pet birds. In fact, the birds passed away not long after air fresheners had been used close to them. It also happens to be the primary ingredient used in the frightening pesticide DDT.

Even if you only use these air fresheners occasionally, studies have found that being exposed even just once a week raises the risk of household members developing asthma, and by as much as 71%, which is why it’s far better to make your own, than to subject yourself, your family and our environment to such a long list of potential hazards.

Make Your Own Gel Fresheners

Freshen up your home naturally with these simple gel fresheners.

They’re easy to make with a few simple ingredients. You can customize them with any scent and color you prefer. Plus, they’re fun to look at!

The process is so simple, you can easily make a bunch of air fresheners in just a few minutes. Make one for every room in your home.

The Video Tutorial

Watch our 90 second video tutorial showing the whole process first and then continue reading below for the full ingredients and supplies list and step-by-step photos of the gel fresheners being made.

Step-By-Step Photo Tutorial

Supplies

• 1 packet unflavored gelatin
• 3/4 cup water
• 1/4 cup vodka or 1 tablespoon of salt
• 15 drops essential oil (we used Plant Therapy Lemon and Spring Blossom)
• 1-2 drops food coloring
• small glass jars (we used half-pint mason jars)
• lids with some sort of vent or holes (we used mason jar lids with a straw hole and a frog lid insert)
• small saucepan
• whisk

Bring 3/4 of water to boil in a small saucepan.

Add gelatin packet and stir until dissolved. When you add the gelatin, the water will start to boil more aggressively. Turn off the heat at this point. Let mixture sit until cooled to room temperature, then add the 1/4 cup of vodka.

The alcohol in the vodka will keep mold from forming on the surface of the gel freshener. You can substitute with one tablespoon of salt.

Pour into the small jar.

Add the food coloring. You only need one or two drops. Stir.

Add in 10-15 drops of essential oils and stir. Refrigerate the gels until set.

Place a frog grid, a lid with a straw hole, or even a small piece of cheesecloth over the jars. This will help keep debris out while still allowing the scent to flow.  You don’t have to use a lid, but gel fresheners will evaporate in about a month without one.

The recipe can be doubled or tripled to make more gel freshers.

Try different scents throughout the seasons. They are also perfect for hostess gifts.

Fun Scent Combinations

One of the things that I like best about making homemade gel fresheners, is I get to play with the scents!

I’ve come up with some fabulous aromas that you might want to try too, though you may also want to get creative and have a little fun coming up with your own as well.

The Flower Garden:

• 7 drops lavender essential oil
• 4 drops geranium essential oil
• 4 drops grapefruit essential oil

Pure Joy:

• 8 drops tangerine essential oil
• 6 drops lavender essential oil
• 3 drops lime essential oil
• 3 drops spearmint essential oil

A Walk in the Woods:

• 7 drops cedarwood essential oil
• 6 drops white fir essential oil
• 5 drops frankincense essential oil

Citrus Refresher:

• 5 drops mandarin orange essential oil
• 5 drops lemon essential oil
• 5 drops lime essential oil
• 5 drops grapefruit essential oil

Bugs Be Gone:

• 5 drops lemongrass essential oil
• 5 drops eucalyptus essential oil
• 4 drops basil essential oil
• 4 drops thyme essential oil

Fall Cider:

• 7 drops ginger
• 5 drops orange
• 5 drops cinnamon

Pumpkin Pie:

• 6 drops cardamom
• 4 drops cinnamon
• 3 drops clove bud
• 2 drops nutmeg

Candy Cane:

• 9 drops wintergreen
• 6 drops sweet orange

Christmas In the Air:

• 6 drops fir needle or spruce
• 6 drops orange
• 3 drops wintergreen

Where To Buy Essential Oils

Our favorite supplier of essential oils is Plant Therapy. They provide all of the essential oils mentioned above. The oils are 100% pure and unadulterated. You can browse their selection of oils on their Amazon store here.

6 More Homemade Air Freshening Alternatives

While homemade gel fresheners are my favorite way to scent my home, there are other good options too.

1. Scented Wood Blocks

It’s really easy to make scented wood blocks. All you need is some wood blocks such as these wooden cubes and essential oil.

Simply coat the wood blocks with the oil, perhaps using one of the suggested recipes above, though you may need to double or triple the amounts listed to cover them all. Pour some essential oil into a container, dip in a clean paintbrush and rub the oil so it fully coats the wood blocks. 

2. Baking Soda/Essential Oils

Baking soda is famous as an odor absorber, and by blending it with some of your favorite essential oils it makes a great alternative to a chemical air freshener.

Simply add baking soda to a small glass jar. Now add your desired essential oils, using 6 drops of oil per each tablespoon of baking soda in the jar.

That’s all there is to it. Replace the contents when the baking soda starts to harden, as it won’t be as effective in neutralizing the odors.

3. A Relaxing and Uplifting Room Spray

After a long day, you probably need a little time to chill out, and your mood may need some uplifting too.

A room spray can make a great alternative to a gel freshener, provided you make your own. You can change the oils up as you’d like for different purposes as well, such as purification with tea tree oil, or lavender to encourage a more peaceful night’s rest.

To make the room spray, you’ll need:

• An 8-ounce spray bottle filled about three-quarters full with distilled water
• Fill the remainder of the bottle with witch hazel
• 14 drops grapefruit essential oil
• 14 drops tangerine essential oil
• 6 drops lemon essential oil
• 6 drops bergamot essential oil

After placing the lid back on, shake thoroughly and it’ll be ready for use.

4. Simmer Pot

Simmer pots are an old-fashioned way to scent your home, something you might recall seeing your grandmother or great-grandmother do. It’s one of the cheapest and easiest DIY air fresheners there is and you can easily change the scent just by switching up the ingredients.

You can use anything you like – my favorite is a perennial fall favorite, a scent I actually use quite often, not just in autumn, using sliced apples, cloves, and cinnamon sticks.

All you have to do is fill a small pot with water, about three-fourths of the way, and bring it to a boil. Add your ingredients and continue to boil for several minutes. Afterward, simply turn the heat down to a simmer, allowing the scent to fill the air. As the water evaporates, add more to keep it going.

5. Potpourri

It’s easy to create a pleasant scent using potpourri. Just blend some fragrant herbs and essential oils with dried flowers.

6. Coffee

When you have a powerful odor permeating your home, like fish, garlic or onions, use ground coffee to dispel it. All you have to do is place a few bowls of fresh ground coffee in the room and its much more pleasant scent will take over.

The post How To Make Your Own Gel Air Fresheners With Essential Oils appeared first on Natural Living Ideas.

Making herb-infused oils at home is relatively easy – and a fun project to start out with if you are new to making natural care products. Even if you only have a few herb pots on your kitchen window sill, you’ll probably have enough material to get started in making your first herb-infused oil.

Here’s a quick look at how to make herb-infused oils – and some suggestions on what you can do with your finished oil!

Infusing Herbs Into Oil

You need just a few basic materials to get started infusing oils. You will need:

• A clean, sterile jar (such as a Mason jar).
• A carrier oil of choice. I suggest sunflower (Helianthus annuus), olive (Olea europaea), or sweet almond (Prunis dulcis) oil as your base oil. See the recipes below for suggestions.
• An herb of choice. There are many plants (not just herbs) that you can choose to infuse but I suggest starting out with some of the more popular (and readily available) herbs suggested in the recipes below.
• Sunshine or a heat source. See below for the two main methods for making herb-infused oils.

How To Dry Fresh Plant Material To Make An Herb-Infused Oil

If you are using fresh plant material, vs. store-bought plant material which is already dry, you need to make sure that your plant material is dried out first. Failure to dry your plant material will result in a moldy, unusable oil, due to water retained within the plant material.

How To Dry Out Fresh Plant Material:

• Lay flat your fresh plant material on tissue paper in a warm, humid-free space and leave to dry for one to two days (depending on your climate and space available) OR
• Tie a few stems of the fresh plants together with a piece of string and hang upside down from the rafters of the roof. Some people also cover the bunch of herbs with a paper bag. Make sure that the area is warm but moisture-free. 

Packing A Jar For An Herb Solar Infusion

Once you have dried plant material, break it down into manageable parts that will fit inside of the Mason jar; for example, leaves, stems, flowers. Pack the jar as tightly as you can. Leave enough space to pour in your chosen carrier oil. You may need to add more plant material when you’ve added the oil, and over subsequent days, as the material moves around.

When the jar is full of both plant material and oil, cap tightly, and shake gently a few times.

Herb-Infused Oils With Solar Infusion

If you choose to use the solar infusion method, you’ll need to make sure that you have a warm, sunny window sill available for two to four weeks or a place to put the jar outside for long days of sunshine. Simply place the jar in the chosen sunny spot and leave for two to four weeks. Check on it every few days, shake gently, and add more plant material if necessary.

After two to four weeks, strain the plant material from the herbs, and pour the oil into another Mason jar.

Infusing Herbs By The Double Boiler Method

The double-boiler method is quicker but less traditional than the solar infusion method to make herb-infused oils. Once the herbs are dried, place the herbs in the top pan of the double boiler. Cover with your chosen carrier oil.

You can make a simple double boiler by placing two pans inside of each other.

The bottom pan should contain about two inches of water. Heat up this water on the stove. When it is boiling, turn down to simmer, and then place the top pan inside of the first pan and cover. The bottom of the top pan should sit just above the water in the first pan (not touching). Leave to simmer for several hours. However, you need to constantly check the water level in the bottom pan and check on how the oil and plant material is interacting. Once the oil changes color and/or takes on the aroma of the herbs, switch off the heat.

Strain the herbs from the oil by using a strainer. Pour the oil into a suitable container (such as a Mason jar).

Simple Recipes Using Herb-infused Oils

Whichever method you used to make your herb-infused oil, you should now have an herb-infused oil. Following are three suggestions for making herb-infused oils and what you can do with your oil once you have made it.

Calendula Infused Oil

Calendula infused oil is a favorite herb-infused oil to make as it can be used for many things. It is an excellent skincare oil and is gentle enough to use on babies bottoms!

• Calendula Infused Oil for Baby Bottoms
  • 1-oz. calendula infused sunflower (Helianthus annuus) oil
  • 1 drop lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) essential oil

Combine the calendula-infused oil with the essential oil. Apply to baby bottoms to soothe mild diaper/nappy rash or skin issues.

Cautions: Use only on babies age 6 months and above. Leave out the lavender essential oil if you have concerns about skin sensitivity. Consult a medical professional immediately, if adverse reactions occur.

Chamomile Infused Oil

Chamomile is also a useful oil to have around for skincare.

• Chamomile* Infused Oil for Cracked Skin
  • 1-oz. chamomile-infused* sweet almond (Prunis dulcis) oil
  • 6 drops lavender (Lavandula angustifola) essential oil
  • 4 drops geranium (Pelargonium graveloens) essential oil
  • 2 drops rose (Rosa × centifolia) essential oil

*Use either Roman (Chamaemelum nobile) or German (Matricaria recutica) chamomile plant.

Combine the chamomile-infused oil with the essential oils. Apply the oil blend to dry or cracked skin.

Cautions: Do not apply to open wounds. Possible skin sensitivity.

Peppermint & Rosemary Infused Oil

This is a more complex recipe that involves combining two infused oils. Both peppermint and rosemary are great for mental stimulation and for calming the soul.

• Peppermint and Rosemary Infused Oil Roll-on for Clarity
  • 0.33-oz. (10 mL) peppermint and rosemary infused* olive (Olea europaea) oil
  • 1 drop basil (Ocimum basilicum) essential oil
  • 2 drops sweet marjoram (Origanum marjorana) essential oil
  • 1 drop clary sage (Salvia sclarea) essential oil

*Infuse both the peppermint and rosemary as separate infusion blends and combine together for this recipe.

Combine the peppermint and rosemary infused oil with the essential oils. Pour into a roll-on applicator. Fix the roller ball applicator and cap. Shake well. Apply to wrists and temples in times of brain fog and confusion.

Cautions: Avoid during pregnancy. Avoid with high blood pressure. Possible skin sensitization. For adult use only.

The Use Of Herb-Infused Oils

Herb-infused oils can often be used in place of essential oils, although therapeutic properties may vary due to the different extraction methods. Herb-infused oils can be made at home with relative ease and are less expensive to make (and use) than essential oils. However, combining both herb-infused oils and essential oils adds a different dimension to aromatherapy blends, and the possibilities are limitless!

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Read Next: How To Make An Herbal Salve

The post How To Make Herb Infused Oils & 3 Recipes To Try appeared first on Natural Living Ideas.

As the heart of any home, the kitchen tends to be a place of congregation. It’s where we cook our meals, enjoy our food, and chat about our days. 

Making your kitchen a more environmentally friendly space has plenty of advantages over the status quo. Not only is it healthier for you and your loved ones, it’s much more economical and far less wasteful.

If you are planning a large renovation or are just looking for some quick and easy tips, here are our top 10 ways to go green in the kitchen:

1. Eat a Climate-Friendly Diet

Whether you live to eat or eat to live, our daily sustenance has a massive impact on ecological systems around the globe. Lessen the mark you leave on the planet by practicing these climate-friendly food tenets:

Eat Locally – The less distance your food needs to travel to your plate, the better. Shop your local farmer’s markets to reduce transport emissions while also supporting organic food producers in your area.

Eat Fresh – Frozen, canned, refined, and processed foods might be convenient but they are also lacking in nutrition, contain synthetic additives, and are often sold in excessive packaging. You can avoid these pitfalls by eating real food. Here are 65 staple foods you can stop buying and start making.  

Grow Your Own – There are so many benefits of tending a garden, not least of which is producing fresh, organic food.  

Eat Less Meat – Modern agricultural practices are a major contributor to climate change. Eating more fruits and vegetables, grains, nuts, and seeds is a whole lot healthier for you and kinder to the planet. Here are some tips to ensure you receive good nutrition when going vegetarian.

Don’t Waste Food – Americans tossed away 20 pounds of food per person per month in 2012, and much of it was still perfectly edible. With just a little planning, we can drastically reduce our food waste.

2. Preserve Food With Beeswax Wraps

Ditch the single use plastic cling wrap (which can’t even be recycled!) and use all natural beeswax wrap instead to preserve your leftovers.

Made from organic cotton cloths that have been coated in beeswax, these wraps can be washed and reused again and again. When they have reached the end of their usefulness, they are 100% biodegradable and can be tossed in the compost or wrapped around kindling to be used as a fire starter.

Pick up a 3 pack of Bee’s Wrap here. Or check out our tutorial for step by step instructions on how to make your own beeswax food wraps.

3. Invest in Glass Storage Containers

You won’t need to worry about BPA and other chemicals leaching into your food when you invest in a good quality set of glass food storage containers. Made from durable and shock resistant borosilicate glass, take care of them and they will easily last a lifetime.

Check out this 12-piece set, safe for use in the dishwasher, oven, microwave, and freezer.

4. Use Cast Iron Cookware

Modern frying pans, made from aluminum or stainless steel, are typically coated in non-stick chemicals like Teflon. Made up of long chain perfluorinated chemicals, Teflon is a toxic substance that seeps into the food you cook in it. Worse still, when heated at common cooking temperatures, Teflon releases a slew of chemicals into the air. When heated above 1200°F, it releases carbon tetrafluoride, an ozone depleting greenhouse gas.

Superior in every way, cast iron cookware is versatile, non-sticking, and incredibly durable. Since it is seasoned with oil, it won’t leach out any chemicals into the air or into your food. You can use it on the stove top, in the oven, and on the barbecue without worrying about it breaking or melting. And the more you use your cast iron pans, the better food tastes.

Replace your existing cookware with this 5 piece cast iron set that includes two skillets, a griddle, and Dutch oven.

5. Stop Using Paper Towels

Although single use plastics get a lot of (much deserved) flak, let’s not forget how incredibly dirty the paper manufacturing industry is and its environmental impact on air, water, and waste pollution.

Swap out conventional single use paper towels for reusable, earth friendly alternatives. We especially love Bamboo Towels – each sheet can be washed and reused at least 120 times. And because they are made from fast growing bamboo trees which grow 3 feet per day, they are a much more sustainable choice than other tree materials.

6. Set Up a Composting System

When food scraps and other organic waste end up at the landfill, they are buried in a “dry tomb”. This airless and arid environment alters the natural decomposition process; in lieu of oxygen and moisture, anaerobic microorganisms break down organic matter and release greenhouse gases that leach out into the atmosphere. Landfill gas is composed of about 50% carbon dioxide and 50% methane. Methane gas holds 28 to 36 times more heat than carbon dioxide.

A powerful way to mitigate your individual contribution to climate change is to dispose of food and yard waste with a composting system. Composting breaks down organics with the help of millions of aerobic organisms that require oxygen and moisture to do their work. While composting does generate carbon dioxide emissions, it is far less harmful than dry tombing. And at the end of the process, you will be rewarded with hummus, a nutrient-rich soil amendment.

There is a composting system for practically everyone, even if you have very limited space. Compost heaps are certainly a traditional, tried and true method that can be set out in the open, placed in covered bins, or enclosed in a rotating tumbler. Trench composting is invisible and odorless, simply bury food scraps directly in the garden. Vermicomposting is great for a year round, indoor set up that produces super nutrient rich worm castings. Another indoor method, bokashi composting differs from conventional decomposing of organics and breaks things down through the process of fermentation.

7. Put Food Scraps to Good Use

Another way to deal with organic waste is to squeeze every last bit of usefulness out of it. Here are a few typically tossed items that are actually quite helpful to have on hand:

Spent Coffee Grounds

After each brew, scoop out the coffee grounds and stow them in the fridge. They can be used as a free fertilizer that boosts nitrogen in plants as well as lower the pH for acid loving cultivars. Coffee grounds can also be used to repel pests, exfoliate your skin, absorb odors, and more.

Used Tea Bags

Spent tea bags have plenty of additional life left in them after the tea’s been made. Cut open the bag and drop the leaves into the soil of your indoor and outdoor plants for a free boost of nutrients. Or keep them in the bag to shine wooden surfaces, sooth irritated skin, condition your hair, or as a natural dye.

Banana Peels

Enriched with potassium, banana peels are an excellent fertilizer for plants and seedlings. Use the moistened side of the peel to shine shoes and dust houseplants. You can also make vinegar, tenderize meat, or dry them out to feed your chickens, rabbits, and pigs. Check out more banana peel uses here. 

Eggshells

An abundant and free source of calcium, save your eggshells for the garden to fertilize your plants, deter pests, and make some adorable seed starter pots. You can also grind up and eat eggshells to strengthen bones, support your joints, and remineralize your teeth.

Additional Ways to Use Up Food Scraps

You can repurpose food scraps in endless ways – from spoiled wine and fruit pits to bones and bread ends. Check out our roundup here.

8. Add Air Purifying Plants

Between building materials, furnishings, carpets, combustion products, and household chemicals, the home can be a major source of indoor air pollution, with some estimates stating it can be anywhere from two to ten times greater than pollutants we breathe outdoors. If you burn scented paraffin candles or use plug in air fresheners regularly, you’re only making your indoor air quality worse.

You can literally green up your kitchen (and the rest of the home) by adding houseplants that will clean the air.

According to a study conducted by NASA in 1989, English ivy (Hedera helix), peace lily (Spathiphyllum “Mauna Loa”), bamboo palm (Chamaedorea seifrizii), mother-in-law’s tongue (Sansevieria laurentii), marginata (Dracaena marginata), and Janet Craig (Dracaena deremensis “Janet Craig”) were the most effective for removing all three pollutants tested,  formaldehyde, benzene, and trichloroethylene. Another study from 1993 also identified several cultivars – including emerald gem (Homalomena spp.) and parlour palm (Chamaedorea elegans) – that absorb ammonia and xylene as well.

Interestingly, both studies noted that soil surface area is just as important for the removal of toxins as is the plant’s foliage. So when you pot up plants to place strategically around the home, use wide pots that allow the plant’s roots to extend outward and near the soil’s surface to maximize their ability to purify the air.

Related Reading: 17 Best Houseplants For Your Kitchen

9. Use Natural Cleaning Products

If you’ve got white vinegar, baking soda, and some fresh lemons, you already have practically everything you need to scour and disinfect any area of the home. These cheap and all natural cleansers can easily tackle a kitchen’s worst messes – check out our 40 green cleaning tips here.

You may also purchase natural cleansers for ease and convenience. We like Truce All Purpose Cleaner for wiping clean multiple surfaces around the home. For scouring, Bon Ami Cleaning Powder is a gentle abrasive that won’t scratch your sink, stove, and countertops.

10. Be More Energy Efficient in the Kitchen

It’s no surprise that the kitchen appliances take up a large share of home energy use. Between the refrigerator, stove, dishwasher, as well as other smaller appliances, the kitchen can be a real energy hog.

When your kitchen appliances are ready to be replaced, upgrading to energy efficient models has both immediate and long term benefits. Appliances with the Energy Star label use about half the amount of electricity as standard models, saving you money on day to day operating costs. And while it used to be that energy efficient appliances were more expensive than their non-certified counterparts, higher demand for Energy Star products over the years has made their upfront purchasing costs much more competitive. See also the many rebates, tax credits, and other incentive programs to go green.

But purchasing energy efficient appliances is only part of the battle. How we use them is just as important for minimizing energy consumption:

• Refrigerators with top mounted freezers use 10% to 25% less energy than bottom mount and side-by-side fridges.
• Microwaves use half as much energy as a stove.
• Every time you open the door, the oven loses around 25% of its heat.
• Because pressure cookers cook food so fast, they use 50% to 75% less energy than the oven or stove top.
• When cooking on the stove top, select the burner size that best fits the size of the pot you’re using; heat is wasted when the burner is larger than the pot.
• Use smaller appliances, like a crock pot, toaster oven, or convection oven to prepare small or one pot meals.

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Read Next: 40 Genius Ways To Green Up Your Entire Bathroom Routine

The post 10 Brilliant But Simple Ways to Green Up Your Kitchen appeared first on Natural Living Ideas.

Mosquitoes aren’t just a nuisance you have to endure when you go outdoors, they’re a legitimate cause for health concerns.

They buzz around, searching for people or animals to dine on, sucking out their blood and bringing all sorts of diseases and viruses with them, like Zika, malaria and west Nile virus, none of which you’d wish on your worst enemy. But, dousing yourself, and your family, in chemical sprays come with another set of problems that can negatively impact health.

So, what’s a gardener to do in order to repel these biting insects and keep everyone in the home free of disease?

Use the power of smell. Mosquitoes are attracted to things like sweat and body odor, but certain scents that many of us find pleasant, repel them. That’s why things like citronella candles and DEET sprays work. There is also a number of sweet smelling, beautiful plants that contain powerful mosquito repellent properties.

By including these eleven plants in your garden, and used in conjunction with other natural mosquito repelling products and enjoy a much more relaxing outdoor space without fear of getting bitten.

Citronella

While citronella candles are often laden with chemicals (unless you make your own), the citronella plant (officially known as the citrosum plant and often referred to as the mosquito plant) can be grown in your garden for mosquito control.

The plant carries the fragrance of citronella in its foliage, and when a leaf is crushed and rubbed onto the skin, the aroma is very pleasant, yet it helps to naturally repel those mosquitoes. While not as effective as bottled repellents, it comes without the high price or potentially hazardous chemicals, and when grown in the garden, you’ll always have it on hand.

This perennial grows 5 to 6 feet and can be planted in the ground or kept in large pots. The plants tend to do best in full sun in areas with good drainage. If you live in a drought-prone area, you can still plant citronella as it’s relatively tolerant of summer stress.

Want to try growing citronella? You can buy two large live citronella plants from Clovers Garden on Amazon here. Each plant is capable of keeping a ten square foot area free of mosquitoes so plant around your patio or near your porch to keep your outdoor seating areas free of mosquitoes and other biting insects.

Lemon Balm

The green leaves of lemon balm have the scent of lemon with a hint of mint, which should be no surprise as it’s a member of the mint family. Not only does it offer lots in the way of healing properties, it’s known for warding off mosquitoes while also attracting important pollinators like butterflies and bees.

For a quick mosquito repellent, all you need to do is crush a handful of the leaves in your hand and rub them onto your exposed skin.

By growing lemon balm near your back door or in your garden, the leaves will be handy when you need them. Just keep in mind that while this plant is especially effective for keeping mosquitoes away, it’s also considered an invasive species, you can avoid a takeover by planting it in a pot, rather than directly in your yard or garden. It’s drought resistant, fast growing and reseeds itself, making it ideal for container gardening.

Plus, aside from mosquito control, there are many other brilliant ways to use your lemon balm plant.

You can purchase a live lemon balm plant from this page on Amazon so you don’t have to wait for seeds to start.

Catnip

Not only will your feline friends be especially appreciative of having catnip around, it’s considered one of the best natural insect repellents.

It contains a natural chemical known as nepetalactone, which is both a useful insect repellent and a feline attractant. In fact, studies, including one reported at the 222nd national meeting of the American Chemical Society, have shown that catnip is about 10 times more effective at repelling mosquitoes than DEET.

Of course, if you’re not a fan of cats, you may want to consider one of the other plant options. Otherwise, be sure to plant it in a spot where cats can rub and roll in it without hurting adjacent plants. Some cats like it so much that they lie on it, roll on it, and chew it to the point of destruction.

Catnip is easy to grow – it grows readily as a weed as well as a commercially cultivated plant in some regions of the U.S. While it will repel mosquitoes that are in close proximity to it, some people apply the crushed catnip leaves for optimal protection.

A live catnip plant can be purchased from here to instantly start taking advantage of its mosquito repelling properties.

Marigolds

Marigolds contain Pyrethrum, a compound used in many insect repellents. A “screened cage method” study examined the repellent action of essential oils derived from Marigolds and Myrtle compared to DEET and found that it demonstrated the protection time of 50% essential oils of marigold and myrtle were respectively 2.15 and 4.36 hours, compared to 6.23 hours for DEET 25%.

Position potted marigolds near the entrances to your home, as well as common mosquito entry points like open windows to deter the insects from going past the barrier.

Basil

As one of the most pungent of herbs, basil makes an outstanding natural mosquito repellent, giving off a scent without the leaves having to be crushed or touched. A 2011 review published in the Malaria Journal found that essential oils from Ocimum (basil) provided very high levels of mosquito protection, as much as 100 percent.

Plus, as basil can be used in a wide range of dishes and for a variety of reasons, you’ll be able to take advantage of its wonderful flavors just by taking a few steps outside your door. Basil emits its aroma without crushing the leaves, so you can grow it in pots and place them in your yard or garden to control mosquitoes. To keep the mosquitoes away from your skin, rub a handful of the leaves onto exposed areas.

Read More: How To Grow A Giant Basil Bush: A Pro Gardener Reveals Her Secret

Lavender

Most of us love the smell of lavender, but few realize that it not only offers that fabulous scent, and helps promote a relaxing, calming sensation, but it can keep those tiny invaders from ruining your outdoor dinner party.

The pleasant aroma of lavender is offensive to mosquitoes and is best harnessed by planting it in the garden, or in pots situated near doors, windows and entertainment areas.

For an even higher level of protection, rub the plant onto your skin to release its oils. Lavender is also used in our highly effective Natural Mosquito Repellent Spray.

For a total guide on growing, harvesting and using lavender, read our guide here.

Peppermint

Not only is peppermint’s minty clean scent significantly better than that awful chemical smell, it can serve as a natural insecticide to repel mosquitoes. In fact, research published in the Malaria Journal revealed just why it’s so effective. The experts discovered that it offered repellent action when applied to exposed body parts, while also showing larvicidal and mosquito repellent action. Mosquito larvae were killed 24 hours after exposure to a solution of peppermint oil and water.

When enjoying your yard or when mosquito problems get severe, crush a few of the leaves on the plant to release the scent and oils.

Garlic

While eating garlic-filled foods won’t repel mosquitoes unless you consume a massive amount, growing garlic can do the trick. Planting it not only helps to deter the nasty rascals, but you’ll have your own supply of tasty garlic to use for flavoring your cooking. Simply add some garlic to your vegetable garden or flowerbed.

Pennyroyal

Pennyroyal is another famous natural bug repellent and it’s especially effective for battling mosquitoes.

Simply planting it outside around your house can discourage them from taking up residence in your yard, and by keeping a vase of fresh pennyroyal in a room, it can drive mosquitoes away.

As pennyroyal is related to the mint family, it can quickly become invasive which means it’s best to plant it in a container or control growth by using a tough border that it can’t penetrate through and spread. As it can be grown both indoors or out, you may want to grow it in a couple of containers in your home for added protection. 

Rosemary

This gorgeous flowering plant is most commonly used to flavor dishes, but it can also serve as an outstanding mosquito repellent amongst a number of other fantastic uses.

You can keep it indoors or out, just be sure it gets full sun. For repellent purposes, both the live plant and cuttings from it are effective for repelling those annoying disease-carrying insects.

Rosemary is great when you want to gather around a fire without battling mosquitoes. Just toss some in and the aromatic smoke it gives off when it’s burned not only adds a nice smell, but it’s strong and unpleasant enough to those critters (and many other types of insects) that it will keep them away.

Scented Geranium

Scented geraniums are yet another popular mosquito repelling plant recommended by countless gardeners and gardening sites.

The lemon scented type of geranium is most effective, as it’s similar to citronella. Geraniums also have especially gorgeous blooms that can make for an incredibly attractive decorative piece. While they prefer a warm, sunny and dry climate, in cold climate areas, you can grow them in planters provided they’re pruned frequently.

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More Ways To Keep Mosquitoes Out Of Your Garden

Plants are great for repelling mosquitoes, but for added effectiveness, combine with these other natural ways to keep mosquitoes away.

• Attract mosquito eating critters – Banish mosquitoes from your garden by attracting birds and other animals that literally eat them!
• Make a natural mosquito repelling spray – Apply this herbal mosquito spray before going outside to repel mosquitoes.
• Burn a citronella candle – But not a toxic one you buy in the store. Either buy a natural citronella candle or make your own.
• Use essential oils – Essential oils are a more potent form of many of the plants mentioned above making them more effective at repelling mosquitoes.
• Burn a mosquito repelling incense – This is a great recipe that works really well.

The post 11 Fragrant Plants That Repel Mosquitoes appeared first on Natural Living Ideas.

Using essential oils in the kitchen and bathroom as cleaning agents is a natural and aromatic way to take care of those mundane jobs! Not only will your house be clean, but it will smell naturally aromatic, without the aroma of some of the more toxic cleaning products that you may find in big-box grocery stores.

Here are ten essential oil recipes for cleaning your entire house so you never need to buy a toxic cleaning product again!

1. Essential Oil Kitchen Surface Cleaner

This simple, but effective, kitchen surface cleaner can be used as many times a day as you need it to keep your kitchen smelling fresh and clean!

You will need a 4 oz. glass spray bottle to get started – although you may wish to opt for a larger spray bottle and scale up the quantity you make. For example, if using this 16 oz. spray bottle then multiple all ingredients by four.

Ingredients:

• 4-oz. white vinegar
• 17 drops black pepper (Piper nigrum) essential oil
• 18 drops lemon (Citrus x limon) essential oil
• 13 drops clove (Syzygium aromaticum) essential oil

Add all the ingredients to the 4-oz spray bottle. Cap and shake well. Shake before each use. Spray liberally onto the kitchen surface. Wipe down with a clean sponge or cloth.

Cautions: Possible skin sensitivity if contact occurs.

2. Daily Essential Oil Bathroom Spray

Use the following aromatherapy bathroom spray daily to keep your bathroom sinks and tubs sparkling clean!

You will need a 4 oz. glass spray bottle to get started.

Ingredients:

• 4 oz. white vinegar
• 17 drops lime (Citrus aurantifolia) essential oil
• 16 drops pine (Pinus sylvestris) essential oil
• 15 drops rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) essential oil

Add all the ingredients to the 4-oz spray bottle. Cap and shake well. Shake before each use. Spray liberally onto bathroom sinks and tub. Wipe down with a clean sponge or cloth.

Cautions: Possible skin sensitivity if contact occurs. Avoid use in pregnancy, with high blood pressure, and in epilepsy.

3. Essential Oil Window Cleaning Spray

Clean your windows with this simple aromatherapy window cleaning spray for a natural and aromatic clean! This spray can also be used on mirrors.

You will need a 4 oz. glass spray bottle to get started.

Ingredients:

• 2-oz. white vinegar
• 2-oz. isopropyl or rubbing alcohol
• 13 drops lemon (Citrus x limon) essential oil
• 25 drops lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) essential oil
• 10 drops pine (Pinus sylvestris) essential oil

Add all the ingredients to the 4-oz spray bottle. Cap and shake well. Shake before each use. Spray liberally onto windows and mirrors. Wipe over with a clean cloth.

Cautions: Possible skin sensitivity if contact occurs.

4. Essential Oil & Baking Soda Floor Cleaner for Carpets

You will need to use a different aromatherapy floor cleaner for carpets compared to other floor surfaces (see below). Follow the instructions for each floor cleaner as recommended.

You will need a container with a shaker lid to get started.

Ingredients:

• 1-oz. baking soda
• 8 drops lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) essential oil
• 4 drops tea tree (Melaleuca alternifolia) essential oil

Combine the ingredients together in a suitable container. Sprinkle a light dusting of the blend onto the carpet. If possible, leave for a couple of hours before vacuuming.

Cautions: DO NOT use this blend if you have pets or babies and children under 5 years of age in the home. Alternatively, remove tea tree essential oil and use 12 drops of lavender essential oil in the recipe instead. Make sure that the blend is fully vacuumed into the carpet before allowing pets and children back into the area.

5. Essential Oil Floor Cleaner for Linoleum & Tile

This aromatherapy floor cleaner can be used on most floor surfaces, with the exception of carpet and wood.

You will need a 4 oz. glass spray bottle to get started.

Ingredients:

• 4-oz. distilled water
• 1 tsp. isopropyl or rubbing alcohol
• 30 drops lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) essential oil
• 18 drops sweet orange (Citrus sinensis) essential oil

Add all the ingredients to the 4-oz spray bottle. Cap and shake well. Shake before each use. Spray lightly over the floor surface. Rub over with a microfiber dust mop.

Cautions: Possible skin sensitivity if contact occurs.

6. Citrus Aromatherapy Dish Soap

Once you use this citrus aromatherapy dish soap, you will want to wash dishes all of the time due to its uplifting, light aroma!

You will need an 8-oz. PET plastic bottle with a flip-top cap to get started.

Ingredients:

• 8-oz. castile soap
• 1 tsp. polysorbate 20
• 20 drops steam distilled lemon (Citrus x limon) essential oil
• 20 drops lime (Citrus aurantifolia) essential oil
• 55 drops sweet orange (Citrus sinensis) essential oil

Combine all the ingredients together in the 8-oz. bottle. Cap and shake well. Shake before each use. Add one squirt (or as much as desired) to running warm water in the kitchen sink. Rinse dishes with cold water after washing them.

Cautions: If you use distilled lemon essential oil, there is little-to-no risk of photosensitivity should any liquid soap remain on your skin when going outside into sunlight after use.

7. Aromatherapy Linen & Laundry Spray

Use this linen and laundry spray after laundry is washed and dried and/or to freshen up laundry between washing.

You will need a 4 oz. glass spray bottle to get started.

Ingredients:

• 4-oz. distilled water
• 1 tsp. isopropyl or rubbing alcohol
• 30 drops lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) essential oil
• 18 drops Roman chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile) essential oil

Combine all the ingredients together in a 4-oz. bottle. Cap and shake well. Shake before each use. Spray a few times onto clothes, sheets, and towels to freshen up.

Cautions: Possible sensitivity in some individuals.

8. Essential Oil Laundry Detergent

This simple laundry detergent uses a natural bulk base, taking the guess-work out of formulating an effective cleansing agent, but to which you can add an essential oil blend of your choice.

This essential oil recipe is formulated at 1% for 1 lb. (16-oz.) of base.

You will need a 16-oz. container to get started. I suggest using an airtight PET plastic box – such as this one – in which you can use a scoop to measure out amounts for each load of laundry.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb. unscented powder laundry soap
• 40 drops lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) essential oil
• 36 drops grapefruit (Citrus x paradisi) essential oil
• 20 drops cypress (Cupressus sempervirens) essential oil

Combine all the ingredients together in a 16-oz. container. Add one scoop of the aromatherapy laundry detergent blend to the washing machine for each load, depending upon the size of your washer. You may need to experiment with the amount at first.

Cautions: Possible sensitivity in some individuals.

9. Aromatherapy Air Freshener Diffuser Blend for the Home

You can use an aromatherapy air freshener diffuser blend for any part of the home. The blend may change depending upon the room; for example, you probably want to use a sleep time blend in the bedroom. The following aromatherapy blend is formulated as a general “cleansing” blend suitable for diffusing in the common living areas of your home, to keep it free of unwanted odors.

You will need a 3 mL glass bottle with an orifice reducer to get started.

Ingredients:

• 40 drops Douglas fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii) essential oil
• 30 drops cypress (Cupressus sempervirens) essential oil
• 25 drops lemon (Citrus x limon) essential oil

Add the amount of each essential oil to the 3 mL glass bottle. Affix the orifice reducer and cap. Shake well. Add about 5 drops of the blend (or more) to an aromatherapy diffuser. Diffuse for twenty minutes and switch off. Leave for two hours before diffusing again.

Cautions: Make sure the area in which you are diffusing is ventilated well. Avoid diffusing around pets, babies and young children. Use caution with seniors, pregnant women, and those with serious health conditions.

10. Toilet and General-purpose Essential Oil Scrub

When you need to clean a little deeper, or in those areas which require a little bit of extra attention, try this simple scrub for toilets, sinks, showers, and bath tubs.

You will need a 16-oz. jar to get started. This recipe is at a 2% dilution of essential oils. You might want to increase to a 3% dilution rate for stubborn stains.

Ingredients:

• 16-oz. baking soda
• 50 drops thyme (Thymus vulgaris) essential oil
• 70 drops rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) essential oil
• 40 drops basil (Ocimum basilicum) essential oil
• 30 drops tea tree (Melaleuca alternifolia) essential oil

Combine the essential oils with the baking soda in a 16-oz. jar. Sprinkle one scoop of the blend down the toilet or onto sinks, showers, and bath tubs. Add a small amount of water and scrub with a suitable brush. Alternatively, add white vinegar.

Cautions: This is a potent cleaning blend. Do not use around pets, babies and young children. Avoid use in pregnancy, with high blood pressure, and in epilepsy. If you have pets, babies and young children in your home, you might want to leave out tea tree essential oil and increase the other essential oils proportionally.

General Cautions for Using Essential Oils for Cleaning

If you have pets or young children in your home, make sure that you store your cleaning blends out of reach. Do not leave them where they can get into them. In addition, spray or use cleaning products when pets and children are safely out of the area to avoid any potential accidents. Take note of any additional cautions as listed for each recipe above.

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Read Next: 5 Brilliant Ways To Use Essential Oils In Your Kitchen

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The kitchen is often an overlooked location when choosing houseplants. With its extreme temperature fluctuations from a boiling inferno during meal prep to the frozen Arctic at night time, along with a lack of space and the fumes and grease from cooking, it seems to make sense to just avoid putting plants in the kitchen. However, this hub of activity can actually be a wonderful space for plants, as they help purify the air, add a natural flair to your decor, provide a sweet fragrance, and give you something pretty to look at as you cook.

If you are looking for a way to brighten your kitchen, these 17 easy-care houseplants will fit the bill.

English Ivy

Though it may seem like a strange addition at first, due to its trailing leaves that don’t exactly help maximize space, English ivy is actually a stellar plant to bring into your cooking kingdom. It is fairly hardy and thrives in part-sun to part-shade environments which makes it a great option if your natural light is limited. Since it trails, this houseplant does extremely well as a hanging plant or resting on a tall shelf so it doesn’t take up precious counter space. To top it all off, its leaves absorb formaldehyde which is a common indoor pollutant.

English Ivy plants are available to buy on Amazon from House Plant Shop. They even come with a handy ‘care guide’ to make sure you are looking after your plant properly.

Goldfish plant

This little plant gets its name from its orange, goldfish-shaped flowers that blossom through mid-winter. It can be the perfect burst of color you need to get you through the long grey days and dreary, cold weather. Since it prefers partial sunlight and is incredibly compact, the goldfish plant can be placed on your counter without monopolizing your space.

This easy to grow and frequently blooming plant can be bought from Hirt’s Gardens via Amazon.

String of Pearls

Channel your inner cottage garden with this succulent perennial vine. The string of pearls plant looks pretty much like what the name would suggest, with sphere-like foliage giving it a fairy-tale vibe. Hang over your sink or in front of another kitchen window as it does best in bright light.

These unusual looking plants are available in various sizes and can be bought in clay pots on Amazon.

Aloe Vera

Aloe vera is the ideal plant for the forgetful gardener since it only needs to be watered once every two weeks or so. It does best in low light conditions so you can place it under or on top of a cabinet. You can also break off the leaves and use the gel inside to soothe any cooking mishaps such as burns or cuts.

Shop Succulents on Amazon offer a three pack of these medicinal plants, so you can place one in the kitchen, bathroom and bedroom.

Venus flytrap

Fruit flies and other bugs are drawn to the kitchen where there is an abundance of garbage and other enticing scents. Having a carnivorous venus fly trap on your counter can help cut down on those irritating flying insects. Plus it looks cool too. Avoid placing this plant in direct sunlight and pot it in poor quality, acidic soil. Be sure to water it using rain or distilled water as it won’t do well with tap water.

Cast iron plant

It is called a cast iron plant for a reason. This hardy green houseplant will survive virtually anything including low light, extreme temperature fluctuations, humidity differences, and lack of water. Since it grows fairly tall, it is a good plant to place in a decorative pot on the ground in an unused corner of the kitchen to tie the room together.

Fiddle leaf fig

This adaptable, hardy plant can grow to be six feet tall in the proper conditions! Give it a headstart when first planting with a little organic fertilizer and the fiddle leaf fig will flourish for years to come. Water thoroughly until the water runs out of the drainage holes. Water only when the soil is dry as it doesn’t like to sit in moist soil.

If you would like to get your hands on one of these, Hirt’s Gardens have an already established fiddle leaf fig tree in a 6 inch pot on Amazon.

Chinese evergreens

Chinese evergreens are incredibly hardy and adaptable which makes them an excellent choice for the ever-fluctuating environment of the kitchen. Its eye-catching green leaves contain shades of white, cream, and silver and it never requires pruning to keep growing. This houseplant works to clean the air of toxins and is virtually unkillable. Sounds like a good investment!

A beautiful addition to any kitchen, you can grab yourself an unkillable evergreen here on Amazon.

Cacti

Ah, the ever reliable cactus. There is a reason this plant is able to grow in the most extreme desert regions. It is virtually indestructible. Water very infrequently and your cactus will reward you with a steady, prickly presence. There are many different types of cacti to choose from so you can select one that fits your style best.

This page on Amazon has lots of options to choose from. We love the look of the mini pots – perfect for a kitchen island…

Air plants

Air plants are cute, exotic plants that are grown without soil and are usually placed in an interesting terrarium or air plant holder such as seashells or rocks with holes. Though they are fairly self-sufficient once established, they do require frequent waterings. Use a spray bottle to mist the plants a little every day or soak them in water once a week. It is easy to remember to care for your intriguing plants when they are in the kitchen since it is such a high traffic area with easy access to water. Air plants do best in a warm area, so if your kitchen gets really cold in the winter months, it may be a good idea to temporarily relocate them.

This 12 plant variety pack on Amazon offers you a selection of air plants so you can create a stunning corner in any kitchen.

Herbs

Herbs are essential in any kitchen. Not only are they lively and fragrant, but they are also incredibly practical and can be used to enhance a number of dishes. There’s nothing like fresh basil straight off the plant to tie together your pasta sauce, or glistening cilantro to add the perfect touch to your homemade salsa. How about a steaming cup of fresh mint tea? Virtually any herb can be grown in your kitchen, just make sure to place it in an area that receives direct sunlight.

Spider Plant

This favorite houseplant can survive virtually anywhere in the home, including the kitchen. Regardless of temperature or light exposure, the spider plant will flourish and help remove fumes, pollutants, and odor from the air. Water occasionally when the soil is dry and prune every few months to encourage growth.

If you want to cleanse your kitchen with a fun looking spider plant, head to Amazon here.

African spear

Technically a succulent, this plant’s unique structure provides an interesting element to your kitchen decor as its spear-like leaves make a bold design statement. You rarely have to worry about watering it since it is hardy and thrives in drought, low light, and even cold snaps. This is truly a case of plant it and leave it alone! No finicky, delicate houseplants here.

Snake Plant

If you don’t have the time to take care of a high-maintenance kitchen plant, then the snake plant is for you. It is toxic to dogs and cats however, so it is best to avoid if you have any furry friends running around. Snake plants need partial sunlight and usually grow anywhere from 8 inches to four feet tall so they are most attractive when planted in a large, decorative pot in the corner of the room.

Also known as Mother-In-Law’s Tongue, this plant looks really striking and would make a real statement in any kitchen, order yourself one today on Amazon here.

Calamondin orange

This orange plant is usually small and bush like but can grow up to 20 feet tall when planted outside. Place in a sunny spot on the floor to add fragrance and an exciting burst of orange color to your kitchen. After about a year (yes patience is key) you may finally see tiny quarter-sized oranges begin to ripen. Enjoy making these oranges into jams or simply pop them into your mouth for an explosion of tart flavor.

White jasmine

Most flowering plants don’t live very long in the kitchen, but white jasmine is the beautiful, fragrant exception. This plant does extremely well in the winter months where its delicate white blossoms fill your home with a subtle perfume that transports you to spring and keeps your kitchen smelling fresh and clean. Keep it in a sunny, cool window during the winter and fall seasons and move to an area of filtered light during the spring and summer.

Aluminum plant

The aluminum plants addition on this list is purely based on looks. If you have stainless steel appliances, this houseplants green and silver metallic leaves will really pop and cause the metal accents in your kitchen to shine. It does best as a hanging plant so you can place it strategically to accentuate your decor.

Tips For Growing Houseplants In The Kitchen:

• Though it may seem most appropriate to put your plants in the windowsill, this location causes your plants to be exposed to extreme temperatures and light and can actually cause damage. Save your windowsill real estate for the plants that need direct sunlight.

• Be sure to take your kitchen layout into consideration before choosing plants. If you don’t have any natural light, you will want to select the houseplants that do best in low light conditions.

• Height is everything. Utilize your vertical space rather than cluttering up your counter. Hang plants in pretty baskets from cup hooks and take advantage of the space above your cabinets. Consider installing a tall, low-profile shelf to use for plants and other decorations.

• You may need to relocate some plants over winter if you have a drafty kitchen. Move them to the living room or bedroom until the temperature rises.

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Read Next: 12 Bedroom Plants To Purify The Air & Improve Your Sleep

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You may have noticed witch hazel as an added ingredient in many of your toners, cleansers and makeup removers. There is a good reason for this.

Witch hazel or Hamamelis virginiana is a bright orange or yellow plant with beautiful blooms and an astonishing array of uses.

The extract that is sold in stores is produced from the leaves and bark of the North American Witch Hazel shrub and is often combined with other skin-enriching ingredients such as aloe vera and rosewater.

It is widely accepted in mainstream and alternative health and beauty circles for its potent astringent properties.

Native Americans have used a boiled decoction of this plant for thousands of years for various medicinal purposes such as clearing skin conditions, soothing sore muscles and relieving irritated digestive systems.

Since then, it’s popularity has only risen and it is one of the few plants that is approved by the Food and Drug Administration as a non-prescription drug treatment.

It is also incredibly cheap and versatile, so if you don’t already have a bottle in your medicine cabinet, you are seriously missing out!

This plant is not only good for keeping the skin clean and free of impurities either.

In this article, we delve into 18 uses for this versatile, natural product in your home, for your health, and in your beauty routine.

A Word On Buying Witch Hazel

There are a number of products containing witch hazel on the market, but for the purposes of this article, unless stated otherwise, we are referring to 100% pure and undiluted witch hazel.

It’s also important not to purchase witch hazel with added alcohol.

Our recommended bottle of witch hazel is this Dickinson’s Witch Hazel.

18 Brilliant Uses For Witch Hazel

1. Odor Removal Spray

Combine:

• 1 tbsp witch hazel

• 3 drops lavender essential oil (or other fragrant essential oil of your choice)

• 1 tsp baking soda

• 3 tbsp warm water

Mix in a glass spray bottle. Shake well to combine. Use this to absorb any unpleasant odors from carpet, upholstery, or simply as a fragrance boosting room spray.

2. Facial Cleansing

Pour a little witch hazel onto a cotton facial pad (an eco-friendly and reusable one – like this) and use as a daily cleanser.

Because witch hazel cleanses your pores without drying them out, it can be an excellent solution for those with dry or combination skin.

If you have oily skin, use witch hazel throughout the day to keep your face clean and cut down on oil buildup without having to wash your face completely.

3. Acne Treatment

Dealing with acne can be a frustrating and trying process and many products simply dry out your skin or even increase redness and inflammation.

Witch hazel has been shown to be effective as an anti-inflammatory agent and natural antibacterial that can help clear up acne. It can also help improve the appearance of acne scarring on the face and speed healing.

Try using a witch hazel toner in a spray bottle for acne in other areas as well such as the back or chest. Spray it on after the shower to allow it to soak into the skin.

4. Soothe Diaper Rash

If your little one has an irritated bum, try following up their diaper change with a quick wipe of witch hazel diluted in water on a cotton pad. This can provide cooling relief, reduce inflammation and speed healing.

5. Sunburn

Even with proper sun precautions and regular application of sunscreen, it can sometimes be hard to avoid a sunburn, especially if you have fair skin that burns easily.

One study looked at the effects of a lotion with 10% witch hazel content as an aftersun burn treatment compared to lotions without witch hazel. Those who received the witch hazel treatment saw a 27 percent redness reduction while the witch-hazel free group only saw an 11 percent improvement over two days of application.

Mix witch hazel in with pure aloe vera gel for optimal post-sun relief and to prevent skin cracking and peeling in the days to come.

Read Next: 3 Ways To Use Aloe Vera To Heal A Sunburn

6. Hand Sanitizer

Combine:

1 ½ tsp witch hazel

⅓ tsp vitamin E oil

15 drops tea tree essential oil

½ cup aloe vera gel

Transfer to a pump or squeeze bottle and use for up to 2 weeks. Because of the antimicrobial properties of witch hazel and tea tree oil, this hand sanitizer is a powerful disinfectant. Unlike commercial hand sanitizers, however, it does not use alcohol to dry out your hands and actually functions as a restorative moisturizer.

7. Reduce Under Eye Puffiness

Ah, the dreaded purple shadows of a sleepless night.

Whether you were burning the midnight oil to finish your most recent project, up late with a crying baby, or simply have a genetic predisposition to puffy eyes, you have probably experienced this condition at some point.

Using an eco-friendly reusable cotton pad with witch hazel around the eyes regularly can help reduce the appearance of dark circles and decrease under-eye inflammation by tightening the skin.

Be sure not to get any in your eyes as this can cause lingering irritation and dryness.

8. Insect Repellent

Mix 2 tbsp witch hazel, 5 drops of lemongrass essential oil and 1 cup of water in a spray bottle and shake to combine.

Use this spray as a powerful insect repellent. It is safe to use on most surfaces including your skin and will not leave any nasty, chemical residue. Be sure to test on a discreet area before spraying on fabric.

This same concoction works to reduce irritated bug bites and prevent itchiness on human skin. Plain witch hazel applied to the bite with a reusable cotton pad can also bring down inflammation from flea bites, mosquito bites, and bee stings.

9. Hemorrhoid Relief

Make your own “Tucks” cooling pads with witch hazel.

If you are experiencing discomfort from hemorrhoids or other rectal or vaginal issues, the tannins in witch hazel can decrease inflammation and soothe mucous membranes.

These cooling pads can provide instant relief and are totally safe for use on your more sensitive areas.

Dip reusable cotton pads into witch hazel, being sure to allow them to soak up the liquid. Place cotton pads in the freezer for about an hour and use as needed.

You can also add a ½ cup of witch hazel to a warm bath for similar relief.

10. Stop Bleeding and Disinfect Wounds

Witch hazel is a popular disinfectant and is not quite as painful as alcohol-based solutions. Witch hazel also has hemostatic properties meaning it can reduce minor bleeding.

Apply an alcohol free witch hazel to minor scrapes and cuts to help speed healing, staunch bleeding, and clean the wound of any foreign debris. It can also be used to reduce the appearance of bruises.

11. Scalp Irritation and Dryness

Using a shampoo with witch hazel can help to rebalance the scalp and combat dryness. One study of almost 1,400 people showed significant improvement in scalp irritation and itchiness after using a witch hazel based shampoo.

This Grandpa’s Witch Hazel Shampoo is a good option.

12. Soothe Razor Burn

Splash on witch hazel after shaving legs or face to soothe skin and prevent unsightly, itchy bumps and ingrown hairs from forming. It can also help staunch the bleeding from any nicks or scrapes.

13. Varicose Veins and Stretch Marks

Varicose veins or spider veins are streaky, enlarged veins that often protrude from the feet and legs with a purplish hue and can often be unsightly and embarrassing.

Stretch marks are usually on the stomach or thighs and can follow incidents of rapid weight gain or loss such as pregnancy.

Though more research is needed to solidify the effects, the German Commission E, which evaluates herbal medicines for effectiveness has listed witch hazel as an appropriate treatment for these skin conditions.

14. Dry Skin

Though it may seem counter-productive to use an astringent as a moisturizer, witch hazel can actually improve skin dryness over time and restore healthy oils by cleansing clogged pores.

Apply to affected areas when the skin is still damp after showering, give witch hazel a few minutes to dry, and follow up with a natural lotion to help lock in moisture.

15. Treat Swimmers Ear

Swimmers ear or otitus externa is an uncomfortable microbial infection of the ear that is usually caused by water remaining in the ear after swimming.

Witch hazel can help dry up any pus that is clogging the ear canal, clear away excess oil, and break up wax and debris.

Use a small eye dropper to deliver a few drops of witch hazel into each ear. After allowing ears to drain, clean carefully with a cotton swab. Be sure not to insert cotton swab directly into the car canal as this could cause further damage.

16. Cleaning Dogs Ears

Our floppy eared friends can quickly get a buildup of earwax, mites, and other nasty things on the inside of their ears.

Using a cotton pad soaked in witch hazel, clean gently around the ear flap.

17. Tick Removal

Getting ticks to unclench from human or animal skin can often seem like a daunting task.

Before simply digging in, however, try sprinkling the tick with a few drops of witch hazel. These irritating bugs hate the taste and will loosen their grip, giving you time to remove the tick and dispose of it appropriately.

Be sure to grasp the entire tick and pull firmly. Disinfect the area with witch hazel on a cotton pad following removal.

18. Glass Cleaner

Use undiluted witch hazel in a spray bottle to clean glass, chrome, and mirrors. Simply wipe away with a paper towel and enjoy sparkling, disinfected surfaces

How about it, are you ready to put witch hazel to work for you?

Where To Buy Witch Hazel

Remember, to experience the full benefits of witch hazel, it’s important to use a pure, undiluted and alcohol free brand. This bottle of Dickinson’s Witch Hazel fulfils all of the criteria and is our recommended product.

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Read Next: 10 Reasons You Should Put Witch Hazel On Your Face

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