These natural oils will add moisture and shine to your hair, they will nourish the scalp helping to reduce dry, flaky skin.  

They will help to get rid of dandruff, and they will aid faster and healthier hair growth – all without the use of expensive cosmetics or dangerous chemicals.

To apply any of the treatments below, massage a bit of room temperature or slightly warmed oil to your roots and scalp working it down to the tips like you would with conditioner. Put on a shower cap and let it soak in for about half an hour, then wash your hair using an all-natural shampoo.

For thick unruly hair try Coconut, Argan, Avocado or Extra-virgin olive oil.

For thinner hair that needs more life try Pomegranate Seed or Rosemary Oil. Jojoba oil is great for all hair types.

Coconut Oil

Coconut oil is one of the most powerful oils in the world. Not only does coconut have that great “vacation-in-the-Caribbean” smell, it’s also great for your hair.

Coconut oil is high in vitamin E and other nutrients, and your hair can absorb them all. The result will be hair that is thicker, shiner, healthier and has stronger roots.

Coconut oil is excellent for all hair types, just be sure to use unrefined, organic virgin coconut oil.

You can use it as a deep conditioning treatment for dry hair, or as a hot oil treatment to combat dandruff and flaking.

As the oil contains a high level of antioxidants and offers antibacterial, antiviral and antifungal properties, it’s ideal for fighting an infection or fungus, improving the overall health of your scalp.

It also helps to add volume and shine while promoting faster hair growth too.

To use it as a powerful conditioner, warm a couple of teaspoons of coconut oil until liquified and then massage it into the scalp and work down toward the ends of your hair.

Once your hair is saturated, wrap a towel around it and allow the oil to remain for one to two hours. For an even deeper conditioning treatment, leave it on overnight.

Afterwards, thoroughly rinse your hair and then shampoo as usual. This will allow the oil to totally penetrate the hair shaft, bringing deep conditioning from within while limiting the loss of internal moisture.

With regular use, coconut oil can kill the fungus to eliminate dandruff issues without adding to the body’s toxin burden of chemicals like store-bought dandruff shampoos.

It’s also absorbed into the blood, with its powerful medicinal compounds helping to strengthen your immune system. To use it for this purpose, simply apply a teaspoon of melted coconut oil into your scalp and massage it in for about five minutes.

You can rinse it out right away, or leave it on overnight if you have a bad dandruff problem, washing with shampoo in the morning as you usually would.

To experience the full benefits of coconut oil, make sure you purchase unrefined, organic, virgin coconut oil. Our favorite brand is Nutiva Organic Coconut Oil. Check the price on Amazon here.

Read More: 6 Clever Ways To Use Coconut Oil For Gorgeous Hair

Argan Oil

Argan oil is derived from the fruit of the native argan tree in Morocco.

It’s become famous for helping to create gorgeous locks, often used in beauty salons, as it’s filled with antioxidants, vitamin E and other vitamins, along with omega 3 and omega 9 fatty acids which help to nourish dry, coarse or damaged hair.

When applied externally, it can help boost cell production which results in healthier hair as well as healthier skin which is why you may have noticed that among the list of ingredients in high-end beauty products, argan oil is often included.

Use argan oil to protect your hair from heated styling tools like curling and straightening irons and blow dryers.

Unlike lots of those expensive styling agents that can cause long-term damage to hair due to the many chemicals contained in it, argan oil enriches the hair, nourishing it with its beneficial compounds and repairing the damage.

Before you use any styling tool, apply 2 to 3 drops of argan oil using your hand, palm first. Then use a brush or comb to distribute it evenly throughout your hair from roots to tips which coat it with the oil, keeping it protected from heat damage.

Argan oil can help save swimmer’s hair too.

Chemicals used in swimming pools and saltwater in the sea both have devastating effects on hair, leaving it lifeless and dry.

You can protect your hair from salt or chlorine by soaking it in water from the roots to the tip and then applying 2 to 3 drops of the oil.

Work it all the way from the roots to the tips in order to lock moisture in and provide a strong barrier to keep it protected every time you go into the water.

After a swim, it’s important to take care of your hair as soon as possible.

Shampoo and condition it and then gently squeeze the ends dry with a gentle towel. Use a small amount of argan oil and warm it by rubbing it between the palm of your hands, and then gently pull it through the bottom couple inches of your hair.

Evenly distribute it by combing your hair with a wide-tooth comb; air dries instead of using any heated styling tools.

You can buy Argan oil from here on Amazon.

Read More: 11 Amazing Benefits Of Argan Oil For Health & Beauty

Extra-Virgin Olive Oil

Extra-virgin olive oil is another excellent all-natural solution for many hair problems as it’s rich in fatty acids that are important for a healthy scalp and head of hair.

It serves to coat the shaft of each hair strand to protect it from damage. If your hair’s outer layer suffers damage from hot styling tools and/or dyes, it works especially well, making it appear sleeker, smoother and healthier.

As its very rich in antioxidants, it’s ideal for preventing grey hairs from popping up too.

Struggling to grow your hair?

Olive oil can help you to enjoy longer, stronger hair that shines, particularly when used in the following treating.

The combination of olive oil’s powerful antioxidants and the protein, vitamins and fatty acids in egg yolks will work to strengthen the hair shaft and follicles, leaving them less prone to breakage, as in split ends, which brings hair growth to a halt.

To use olive oil for this purpose, combine two egg yolks and two tablespoons of olive oil.

Dilute the mixture with a half-cup of cold or cool water. Don’t use warm or hot water as those eggs might start cooking, and you don’t want cooked eggs in your hair as it’s a nightmare to get out.

Once you’ve blended the mixture well, slowly massage it into your scalp and then allow it to sit for 20 to 30 minutes.

Rinse hair well afterwards, shampooing is optional.  

If your hair is dry or frizzy, you can use olive oil as a deep conditioning treatment too.

All you have to do is pour a teaspoon into the palm of your hand and then apply it to the ends of your hair, gently massaging the strands. Work on smaller sections one at a time to ensure all strands are coated.

Don’t apply to scalp, working it into your hair and stopping about an inch before you reach your scalp. Use a hair dryer on medium heat to help the oil penetrate for several minutes.

For minor dryness, leave it on for 45 minutes. For extensively damaged hair due to chemical treatments or dyes, leave it on for two hours, or even overnight. Afterwards, shampoo, as usual, rinsing well.

Pomegranate Seed Oil

Say goodbye to frizz and revitalize fine or thinning hair with pomegranate seed oil.

It can practically work miracles thanks to its rich amount of punicic acid, which revitalizes hair, leaving it healthier and with a shinier, thicker appearance while also protecting against environmental damage.

It’s able to penetrate deep into the hair follicles, getting them hydrated so that your hair will be smoother and softer without looking greasy.

All you have to do is add a few drops to the palm of your hand and run it through your hair, from your scalp to your ends for good results.

Pomegranate seed oil is available to buy from here on Amazon.

Rosemary Essential Oil

If you’re worried about getting gray hair, turn to rosemary essential oil as it will help to darken the grays, essentially covering them up over time.

It’s best used on hair that’s naturally a dark color – if you’re blonde, you probably don’t want your grey hair to turn darker than the rest of your natural color.

To use it for this purpose, combine a few drops with a carrier oil like coconut or olive oil, work it in from the scalp to the ends of your hair and then allow it to sit for about two hours, wrapped in a towel or in a shower cap; shampoo and condition as normal afterwards.

Rosemary essential oil should be diluted with a carrier oil (such as extra virgin olive oil) before use. It is available to buy from this page on Amazon.

Want to learn more about some of the wonderful uses and benefits of rosemary essential oil? Read our recent article here.

Avocado Oil

Avocados are famous for their healthy fats, and they also contain proteins and amino acids along with vitamins A, D, E and B6 that can help repair damaged hair while preventing future problems like frizz and breakage.

The oil can even help your hair grow faster too, as when it’s massaged onto the scalp, all of those nutrients get into the hair follicles, providing them with the nourishment they need to produce hair and make it thicker too.

To use avocado oil for deep conditioning and hair growth, gently massage a liberal amount of it onto your scalp and hair and then comb it through using a wide-tooth comb.

Put a shower cap on or wrap your head in a towel while it works its magic for a couple of hours. Afterward, shampoo as usual and rinse well.

If you want to try avocado oil on your hair, then try this bottle of Now Foods Avocado Oil.

To find out more about how to use avocado oil for your hair, for your skin and for your health, read our recent article here. 

Jojoba Oil

Jojoba oil isn’t actually an oil, it’s a liquefied wax that is extracted from a shrub native to the southwestern region of the U.S.  

As it’s jam-packed with vitamins A, E, and D and other nutrients, it can nourish all types of hair but is especially effective for repairing damaged hair and promoting new, healthier hair growth.

Place a small amount of the oil into a microwave-safe bowl, just enough to saturate the hair. Heat it up in the microwave until the oil is warm but not too hot. Dip your fingers in and apply it by starting about one inch from your scalp, running your fingers through your hair to evenly coat and saturated the hair shafts.

Afterwards, put on a shower cap or wrap your head in a towel; leave it on for 20 minutes and then wash and condition as usual.

Jojoba oil is available to buy from this page on Amazon.

To find out more about how to use Jojoba oil for beautiful skin and hair, read our recent article here.

The post 7 Oils To Apply To Your Hair That Will Fix All Of Your Hair Problems appeared first on Natural Living Ideas.

Today’s store-bought beauty products often contain a myriad of ingredients, many of which might be synthetic in nature. Although these types of products often have a need of preservatives, in addition to other ingredients, due to their anticipated store shelf life, it is just as easy (and more natural) to make your own beauty products with essential oils at home.

The aromatherapy product recipes in this article don’t contain preservatives but they should last the recommended time if you use quality ingredients, practice good hygiene (in both making and using the products) and follow the guidelines of a certified aromatherapist for making such products.

Here are eight brilliant beauty products you can make with essential oils at home! All of these recipes are for adult use only.

1. Aromatherapy Facial Toner for Daily Use

Facial toners are predominately made up of water. I recommend making a simple aromatherapy toner with hydrosols vs. essential oils but I have listed the recipe both ways, in case you want to experiment. Oil and water do not naturally bond together, so make sure to include a solubol or polysorbate when combining essential oils with water.

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

Hydrosol Option:

• 2-oz. rose (Rosa × damascena) hydrosol
• 1-oz. geranium (Pelargonium graveolens) hydrosol
• 1-oz. frankincense (Boswellia carteri) hydrosol

Essential Oil Option:

This is a 1% dilution rate as it is used for the face.

• 4-oz. distilled water
• 1 tsp. solubol or polysorbate
• 5 drops rose (Rosa × damascena) essential oil*
• 9 drops geranium (Pelargonium graveolens) essential oil
• 10 drops frankincense (Boswellia carteri) essential oil

*if you don’t have rose essential oil, or it is too expensive, you can increase the amount of geranium essential oil to compensate.

Instructions for Use:

Add all of the ingredients to the spray bottle. Cap and shake well. Shake before each use. Wash face before each use. Spray a small amount of the toner onto a cotton pad. Wipe lightly over the face and neck area. Avoid getting into eyes. Wait for the toner to dry before applying any other products. Use twice a day, morning and evening, as part of your skincare routine.

Cautions: Avoid getting into eyes. If skin irritation occurs, discontinue use.

2. Aromatherapy Facial Serum for Daily Use

An aromatherapy facial serum is primarily made up of carrier oils, but you can add essential oils for additional benefits. If you are using a serum for the face, I recommend using a lighter carrier oil vs. a heavier carrier oil.

You will need a 1-oz. spray bottle to get started.

This is a 1% dilution rate as it is used for the face.

Ingredients:

• 0.75-oz. sweet almond (Prunis dulcis) carrier oil
• 0.25-oz. rosehip seed (Rosa canina) carrier oil
• 2 drops neroli (Citrus aurantium var. amara (flos)) essential oil
• 3 drops petitgrain (Citrus aurantium var. amara (fol)) essential oil
• 1 drop sweet orange (Citrus sinensis) essential oil

Instructions for Use:

Add all of the ingredients to the spray bottle. Cap and shake well. Shake before each use. Wash face before each use. If you are using a toner, apply the toner first. Spray a small amount of the serum onto a cotton pad. Wipe lightly over the face and neck area. Avoid getting into eyes. Use twice a day, morning and evening, as part of your skincare routine.

Cautions: Avoid getting into eyes. If skin irritation occurs, discontinue use. Avoid use if you have a nut allergy.

3. Aromatherapy Facial Cream for Daily Use

An aromatherapy facial cream is made up of carrier oils, water, and a number of other ingredients. I recommend purchasing a basic base cream, from a cosmetic supplier, to start making your own aromatherapy creams.

You will need a 4-oz. jar to get started. This is a 1% dilution rate as it is used for the face.

Ingredients:

• 4-oz. unscented face cream
• 10 drops sandalwood (Santalum album) essential oil
• 10 drops lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) essential oil
• 4 drops sweet orange (Citrus sinensis) essential oil

Instructions for Use:

Add all of the ingredients to the jar. Combine well and cap. Wash face before each use. If you are using a toner and a serum, apply the toner and serum first. Add a small amount to the palm of your hand and massage gently over face. Avoid getting into eyes. Use twice a day, morning and evening, as part of your skincare routine.

Cautions: Avoid getting into eyes. If skin irritation occurs, discontinue use.

4. Aromatherapy Body Spray for Daily Use

Aromatherapy body sprays, just like facial sprays, are made up primarily of water. You can use either hydrosols or essential oils with water for your spray. Again, I am listing both options to try. Oil and water do not naturally bond together, so make sure to include a solubol or polysorbate when combining essential oils with water.

You will need 4-oz. spray bottle to get started.

Hydrosol Option:

• 0.5-oz. lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) hydrosol
• 1-oz. myrtle (Myrtus communis) hydrosol
• 2-oz. cedarwood (Cedrus atlantica) hydrosol

Essential Oil Option:

This is a 1% dilution rate as it is used for the face.

• 4-oz. distilled water
• 1 tsp. solubol or polysorbate
• 12 drops lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) essential oil
• 4 drops myrtle (Myrtus communis) essential oil
• 8 drops cedarwood (Cedrus atlantica) essential oil

Instructions for Use:

Add all of the ingredients to the spray bottle. Cap and shake well. Shake before each use. Use daily as required.

Cautions: Avoid getting into eyes. If skin irritation occurs, discontinue use. Avoid use in pregnancy.

5. Aromatherapy Body Oil for Daily Use

Body oils are both luxurious and nourishing to the skin. Like facial serums, they are primarily made up of carrier oils, but you can add essential oils for additional benefits. You also have greater freedom with body oils vs. facial serums, as you can use heavier carrier oils if you prefer.

You will need a 4-oz. jar to get started.

Ingredients:

• 4-oz. jojoba (Simmondsia chinensis) oil
• 14 drops geranium (Pelargonium graveolens) essential oil
• 10 drops lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) essential oil

Instructions for Use:

Add all of the ingredients to the jar. Combine well and cap. Add a small amount to the palm of your hand and massage gently over the body after your shower or bath. Use once a day.

Cautions: If skin irritation occurs, discontinue use.

6. Aromatherapy Salts for Soaking the Feet

Aromatherapy salts are great for soaking tired feet in a bowl of warm water.

You will need an 8-oz. jar to get started.

Ingredients:

• 8-oz. Epsom or Dead Sea salts
• 1 tsp. solubol or polysorbate
• 18 drops petitgrain (Citrus aurantium var. amara (fol)) essential oil
• 20 drops lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) essential oil
• 10 drops spearmint (Mentha spicata) essential oil

Instructions for Use:

Combine all of the ingredients together in the jar. Add one scoop of salts to a bowl of warm water, large enough to accommodate your feet. Swirl the salts round in the water before putting your feet in. Sit and soak for ten minutes. Remove feet and pat dry.

Cautions: If skin irritation occurs, discontinue use.

7. Aromatherapy Sugar Scrub for Body Exfoliation

I personally love sugar scrubs! Use this sugar scrub once a week to exfoliate dead skin cells from your body. Do not use on the face.

You will need a 4-oz. jar to get started.

Ingredients:

• 3-oz. turbinado sugar (turbinado sugar is naturally coarser, making for a great scrub ingredient.)
• 0.75-oz. apricot kernel (Prunus armeniaca) oil
• 0.25-oz. rosehip (Rosa canina L.) oil
• 9 drops geranium (Pelargonium gravolens) essential oil
• 5 drops neroli (Pelargonium graveolens var. amara (flos)) essential oil
• 10 drops mandarin (Citrus reticulata) essential oil

Instructions for Use:

Combine all the ingredients in the jar. Apply the scrub liberally, using small circular movements, to wet skin. Leave on for ten minutes and then wash off.

Cautions: If skin irritation occurs, wash off immediately.

8. Aromatherapy Perfume Oil

An aromatherapy perfume oil can act as your own custom perfume, in place of a synthetic aroma. Try this aromatherapy blend to start!

Note: Aromatherapy perfumes are made at a higher dilution rate than regular aromatherapy products as you are applying a small amount to a small part of the skin. However, start with a lesser dilution rate if you have skin sensitivities.

You will need a 0.33-oz. roll-on bottle applicator to get started.

Ingredients:

• 0.33-oz. jojoba (Simmondsia chinensis) oil
• 5 drops patchouli (Pogostemon cablin) essential oil
• 7 drops vetiver (Vetiveria zizanioides) essential oil
• 8 drops sweet orange (Citrus sinensis) essential oil

Instructions for Use:

Add the jojoba to the roll-on bottle applicator. Add the number of drops for each essential oil. Fix the applicator tightly. Cap. Shake well. Roll a small amount of the blend onto wrists. Apply as necessary.

Cautions: If skin irritation occurs, discontinue use.

General Cautions for Using Essential Oils in Beauty Products

Storage: Store all products in a cool, dry, dark place, away from heat, sunlight, and water.

Shelf Life: Use salts and scrubs as soon as you’ve made them. Use water-based products within one to two weeks and store correctly. Use oil-based products within a few months, if stored correctly.

Take note of any additional cautions as listed for each recipe above. Consult a certified aromatherapist for further advice.

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Read Next: 10 Essential Oil Recipes For Cleaning Your Entire House

The post 8 Brilliant Beauty Products You Can Make with Essential Oils appeared first on Natural Living Ideas.

Using loofah soap is a great way to remove dry skin from your body. Skip buying pre-made ones at the store. Make your own custom soaps in less than an hour.

What are Loofahs?

Loofahs are vegetables. In fact, they are part of the cucumber (Cucurbitaceous) family. Generally referred to as loofah or luffa, this gourd plant is edible when young. A fully ripened loofah makes an excellent natural exfoliating agent for the body and effective sponge for household cleaning.

We’ve got an entire article dedicated to growing your own loofahs here.

Once a ripened loofah’s skin and seeds are removed, it’s left with a skeleton of xylem fibers. The fibers become spongy when soaked in water and is used for scrubbing and cleansing the skin during bathing or showering. You can make your own custom loofah soaps with melt and pour soap and essential oils.

Supplies

• Clear melt-and-pour soap base
• 12-inch piece of clean, dry loofah
• Yellow soap color, if desired
• Glass measuring cup
• Bamboo skewer, for mixing
• Knife
• Silicone cupcake muffin pan
• Essential oil of your choice (We recommend Plant Therapy)
• Microwave

Prepare the Loofahs

Slice the loofah into 1-inch thick sections. Place the loofah slices into the silicone cupcake pan.

Melt the Soap

Cut enough of the clear melt and pour soap base you will need for your cupcake pan into small cubes. Place the cubes into a glass measuring cup. Put the soap base in the microwave and melt it in 1 to 2 minute intervals until completely melted. Let the soap base cool slightly, then add in 20-30 drops of your chosen essential oil. I used Plant Therapy Lemon Oil for this recipe. Incorporate the essential oils into the soap base with the bamboo skewer.

Pour

Pour the soap base into the loofah filled cupcake tins. Fill the soap to just below the top edge of the cupcake pan. If the loofahs start to float up, lay a weighted cookie sheet on top of the loofahs to hold them in place as they completely cool.

Loofah soaps make great gifts. Make a few extras to share with friends and family.

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Read Next: 7 Reasons You Need To Try Castile Soap & 18 Brilliant Ways To Use It

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Everyone wants thick, luscious lashes. Instead of spending a fortune on lengthy cosmetic implants and commercial serums, there’s a natural and inexpensive way to get the lashes of your dreams.

The key to accelerating lash growth is castor oil. Castor oil is full of nourishing fatty acids like ricinoleic acid that moisturize and protect your lashes.

Like the hair on your head, your eyelashes can get dried out when overworked (with makeup and cleansers). Damaged eyelashes can fall out and thin over time. Lavender and rosemary essential oils are known for their abilities to stimulate hair growth and are calming and soothing oils that are perfect for dry or sensitive skin. If you are ready to start growing thick lashes, let’s get mixing.

Ingredients:

• Organic Castor Oil
• Rosemary Essential Oil (cedarwood is a good alternative if you prefer)
• Lavender Essential Oil
• 2 oz Glass Dropper Bottle

Fill the glass dropper bottle 3/4 of the way with castor oil.

Place 2 drops of rosemary and lavender oil into the bottle. Place the top on and give it a gentle shake.

To use: apply a thin layer nightly before bed.

Castor oil will not irritate your skin or eyes, but be sure not to get any of the oils into your eyes –apply the serum in very thin layers. If you do happen to get a bit in your eyes, do not wash to try to remove the diluted essential oils from your lashes with water. Instead, use another oil like sweet almond or coconut, to gently remove the excess oils from your lashes, then wash with warm water.

The serum is shelf stable for 6 months. You should begin to see growth results in one to three months. However, you will immediately notice how soft your lashes are immediately after use.

Read Next: 6 Clever Ways To Use Coconut Oil For Gorgeous Hair

The post DIY Eyelash Growth Serum For Gorgeous Thick Lashes appeared first on Natural Living Ideas.

By now you are probably well aware of the reported positive effects of coconut oil in the body and the wild health benefit claims that surround it. This tropical secret is not so secret anymore, as the health and beauty worlds are consumed with this oil and its mainstream appeal is only growing. Millions of people across the globe are supplementing unhealthy cooking oils such as vegetable oil and cooking spray for the all-natural oil from this fragrant nut.

Did you know that the uses of coconut oil aren’t limited to cooking up a delicious stir-fry or adding to your bulletproof coffee?

Coconut oil nourishes skin cells, protects from dangerous UV rays, and moisturizes thirsty hair. Becoming not just a culinary phenomenon, but a cosmetic one as well. In short, it is now being used all over the world as an effective, totally natural substitute for numerous unhealthy beauty products. Still not sold? Read on for the ultimate guide for using coconut oil in your daily beauty routine, and you may change your mind.

Does Coconut Oil Live Up To The Hype 

Besides being a well-documented, well-researched oil for cooking purposes, the reasons for choosing coconut oil as a beauty staple go well beyond celebrity recommendations and trendy mommy blogs.

This antioxidant powerhouse packs a serious nutritional punch, nourishing dry hair, repairing damaged skin and even healing wounds. It is a fantastic, all-natural moisturizer that isn’t just skin deep. In fact, due to its unique way of bonding with proteins and its low molecular density, it has been proven to penetrate skin and hair, beyond surface level bringing lasting radiance and damage prevention.

Why Choose Coconut Oil?

Listing the names of beauty products available for skin and hair would take hours. Thousands of creams, body butter, conditioners, and hair masks that all claim to be backed by the newest technology and research and have the most appealing packages that catch your eye at the drug store. You continue to throw money at these colorful, fragranced products that generally don’t deliver on their extravagant claims, and become just another forgotten bottle on your shelf.

Not only that, the majority of products contain harmful chemical agents such as parabens, phthalates, formaldehyde, propylene glycol, toluene, and triclosan to name just a few. These additives serve to increase shelf life, improve coloring or boost fragrance. But at what cost?

Phthalates, for instance, have been shown to increase the risk of breast cancer development and are proven endocrine disruptors. However, they are still widely used in deodorants, sunscreens, and moisturizers.

Triclosan is famous for its antibacterial properties and is, therefore added to most hand soaps, toothpaste, and deodorants. But it has also been found to disrupt thyroid hormones and irritate skin.

These are just a few of the dangerous chemicals lurking in your favorite beauty products. As you work conditioner into your hair, slather lotion on your skin, or rub on deodorant, you are unknowingly exposing yourself to excessive additives and harmful toxins. Instead of sacrificing health in the name of beauty, you should cultivate a daily routine that adds to your overall health and wellbeing.

Coconut oil eliminates the need for a massive collection of cosmetic products and will save your time, energy, money, and health in the long run. Not to mention that it will make you look fabulous while doing so.

What Kind Of Coconut Oil Is Best?

Picking the right kind of coconut oil can be difficult. What exactly do all these terms mean? Cold pressed? Virgin? Refined? Unrefined? The choices seem overwhelming at first.

Rather than going to the store and purchasing the first coconut oil you see, it is crucial that you educate yourself about the uses and the difference between each labeled product. Always remember that the coconut oil you use should say “100% pure” somewhere on the label. Don’t buy into prettily packaged “coconut oil products” as they are usually full of many of the same toxins you are looking to avoid and have unnecessary additives that only hamper its beneficial effect.

Organic vs. Non-Organic

As with most things that you put in or on your body, it is vital that you purchase USDA certified organic coconut oil. This comes from coconuts that were grown without the use of pesticides. Non-organic comes from a source that has either used pesticides to treat coconut crop or from a source that cannot be verified by the USDA. It is best to avoid this type of coconut oil.

Unrefined vs. Refined

Refined coconut oil has been treated with high heat to remove impurities, however, in the course of this refining process, the oil has also been stripped of most of its beneficial properties and will be of limited value for beauty or cooking use. It is also likely that a chemical refining process has been used, corrupting the oil. Unrefined oil is “raw,” meaning that it has been left as is and still contains all the excellent health components of pure coconut oil.

Cold Pressed vs. Expeller Pressed Coconut Oil vs. Centrifuge Extracted

These three methods for making unrefined coconut oil are all very similar and generally, all contain the same nutrients in the finished product. However, different pressing methods are more suited to particular uses.

Cold pressed coconut oil is made straight from fresh, dried coconut flakes and is “pressed” down into oil between rotating circular presses at a low temperature. This method is best for no-low heat situations such as cosmetic and beauty care.

Expeller pressed coconut oil is processed at a higher heat, but still without the use of chemicals or solvents. This is a better option for cooking as it has a high smoke point, but is equally as healthy as cold pressed oil.

Centrifuge extracted oil uses chilled milk and a high-speed centrifugal force, but is also generally the most expensive option for coconut oil and is not as popular.

Virgin vs. Extra-Virgin

Contrary to the distinction in regards to olive oil, there is virtually no difference between these two labels. As long as the bottle indicates one or the other (and all the other appropriate labeling mentioned above) you can be sure you are using a quality product.

This Spring Of Life Organic Extra Virgin Coconut Oil meets all of the above criteria with the added benefit that it comes in a glass jar instead of plastic, which wins points for the environment.

14 Beauty Uses For Coconut Oil

Coconut oil has a high vitamin E content, one of the primary vitamins that contribute to glowing, radiant skin. However, it not only improves the outward appearance of your skin, but it also works to bring healing and repair damaged cells.

Tip: If you are thinking of switching to an all natural beauty routine with coconut oil at the forefront, but can’t convince yourself to ditch fragrance, try adding your favorite essential oils to whatever DIY beauty mixture you concoct.

Benefits Of Coconut Oil For Skin

1. Relieve Skin Conditions

Studies show that it can be used to relieve many irritating skin conditions, including dermatitis and xerosis (abnormally dry skin) and restore scarred skin to its pristine status.

2. Prevent Inflammation

In one study, coconut oil was shown to possess great anti-inflammatory capabilities, along with reducing the pain that is associated with inflammation. Since acne is often directly connected to inflammation, proper use of coconut oil could limit the appearance of acne.

3. Heal Scrapes & Burns

This oil can increase collagen production and improve antioxidant status in the body. Thereby, increasing the healing rate of scrapes and burns on the skin and encouraging healthy hair growth. Plus, its antimicrobial properties reduce the risk of infection.

4. Prevent Fungal Infection

Due to its antimicrobial properties, coconut oil can effectively prevent the growth of harmful microorganisms that lead to bacterial and fungal infections on the hair or skin such as athletes foot, cellulitis, and folliculitis.

5. Makeup Remover

Coconut oil is one of the most effective natural makeup removers and can even remove waterproof mascara. Scoop up some softened coconut oil with a cotton pad and wipe over your face. Be sure to rinse it off after, or use a face cleanser, as too much coconut oil can clog pores.

6. All-Over Moisturizer

Because of its high fatty-acid content, coconut oil is fabulous to use plain as an all-over body moisturizer. When you use the proper amount, just enough to cover skin without leaving an oily residue, coconut oil will transform your skin. Making it look youthful, glowing, and radiant. This oil is best used as a moisturizer immediately after a shower to ensure that it is fully absorbed for optimal benefits.

Coconut Oil Skin Care Recipes

Whipped Coconut Body Butter

While using coconut oil as a moisturizer is terrific for your skin, sometimes trying to dig it out of the container isn’t great for your morning efficiency. With this whipped coconut oil recipe, you no longer have to struggle to get hardened coconut oil out of a giant container, as it will remain light, airy, and easily spreadable when stored at room temperature.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup coconut oil
• 3 drops of your favorite essential oil
• 1 tsp vitamin E oil

Instructions:

1. Add all ingredients to the bowl of stand mixer and mix on high for 7 minutes or until coconut oil reaches a “whipped” consistency
2. Pour into a small glass jar, or other sealable container and enjoy!

Green Coconut Moisturizer

Who knew that green tea could be such a fantastic addition to coconut oil? This green tea infused recipe reverses UV damage and boasts powerful antioxidant capabilities.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup coconut oil
• 2 tbsp loose leaf green tea

Instructions:

1. Add coconut oil to a double boiler on the lowest heat setting. Warm until oil is fully melted.
2. Stir green tea leaves into oil and cover and simmer for one hour. Keeping the heat on the lowest setting.
3. Strain leaves and cool.
4. Add to stand mixer and whip for 7 minutes or until oil is light and fluffy.

Exfoliating Coconut Oil Shower Scrub

Try combining ¼ cup granulated sugar with ½ cup coconut oil and mixing well. Use this scrub in the shower for deep exfoliation and moisturization on any of your dry spots. You could even mix in 10 drops of your favorite essential oil for an added aromatherapeutic benefit. I love adding a citrus oil like lemon, orange or grapefruit for a zesty pick-me-up.

Benefits Of Coconut Oil For Hair

7. Chlorine Protectant

Work coconut oil through hair with your fingers before taking a swim in a chlorinated pool. This will help protect your hair from the harsh chemicals and prevent it from drying out. Plus, it will leave your hair feeling soft and silky after your time in the pool.

8. Frizz Dampener

Use a tiny amount of coconut oil on dry hair to tame stubborn flyaways and bring shine to frizzy hair. Make sure that you do not use too much; a pea-sized amount should do, as an excessive amount could cause hair to become overly greasy and limp.

9. Dandruff Discourager

Massage 2 teaspoons coconut oil into clean hair to prevent and treat dandruff by moisturizing the skin on the scalp. Be sure to work oil deeply into the scalp, focusing on the areas around the forehead and behind the ears. Cover with a shower cap, sit in the sun for 20 minutes and wash out with shampoo. Repeat 2-3 times per week or as needed until symptoms of dandruff begin to dissipate.

Coconut Oil Hair Recipes

Quick Coconut Oil & Honey Hair Mask

This easy hair mask repairs damaged hair while moisturizing thirsty locks and restoring a vibrant sheen.

Ingredients:

• 1 tbsp coconut oil
• 1 tbsp raw honey

Instructions:

1. Add ingredients to a small saucepan and melt together.
2. Work through wet hair. Focusing specifically on ends where damage occurs.
3. Twist hair into a bun and relax for 30-40 minutes while the coconut oil works its magic.
4. Rinse out in the shower and follow regular shampoo and conditioning routine.

Over-Night Coconut Oil Deep Condition

After a shower, work a generous amount of coconut oil into hair and twist damp locks into a shower cap or high bun. Cover pillow with a towel to avoid grease stains and allow the oil to soak into your hair overnight. Rinse thoroughly in the morning, enjoying your silky, soft hair.

Other Cosmetic Uses For Coconut Oil

10. Oil Pulling For Whiter Teeth

The most recent dental phenomenon known as oil pulling can seem distasteful at first. However, due to its antibacterial and antifungal properties, swishing with a tablespoon of coconut oil for 20 mins every day not only freshens your breath but whitens your teeth as well.

11. Makeup Brush Cleaner

Though most of us are guilty of neglecting our makeup brushes for far too long, it is actually super important to keep them clean, as they can collect bacteria and microbes that eventually make their way onto your face or into your eyes. Coconut oil not only works great to remove caked-on makeup from brushes but because of its antibacterial properties, it also cleanses them from that nasty grime. In a shallow bowl, add two parts soap to one part melted coconut oil and mix well. Swish your brushes in the mixture, making sure to get all the bristles wet. Rinse with warm water and air dry.

Read More: 7 Best Ways To Naturally Clean Your Makeup Brushes

12. Natural Lip Balm

Not only does coconut oil soothe chapped lips, but it is also totally non-toxic and safe to ingest, unlike most commercial lip balms. In fact, if you happen to eat a little of the coconut oil on your lips, it is only an added health bonus. Transfer coconut oil to a small, portable container. Use this throughout the day for soft, kissable lips.

13. Natural Deodorant

Deodorant is one of the greatest culprits of harmful chemical agents. It is particularly detrimental because it is smeared right onto the delicate skin of your armpits where it can quickly be soaked into your body throughout the day. Try this homemade mixture instead:

Ingredients:

• ½ cup coconut oil
• ½ cup baking soda
• 30 drops essential oil of choice

Instructions:

1. Mix all ingredients in a stand mixer or by hand until thoroughly combined.
2. Transfer to glass jar or empty deodorant container.
3. Use in place of traditional deodorant.

Read More: 8 Best All Natural Deodorants

14. Shaving Cream

Warm a jar of coconut oil under warm water to soften. Spread over legs or face for a fantastic alternative to toxic shaving creams and gels.

There you have it, the ultimate guide for using this tropical gold in your daily beauty routine. Ditch your toxic beauty products and switch to this incredible, multipurpose, oil today.

The post 14 Brilliant Uses For Coconut Oil In Your Beauty Regime appeared first on Natural Living Ideas.

Epsom salt, or magnesium sulfate, is a well-known compound that has been used across the world for hundreds of years to soothe aching joints, relieve skin conditions, and provide peace and restfulness.

This chemical compound is made up of magnesium, sulfur, and oxygen, and though it is similar in appearance to whole table salt, is not as notorious for internal use, and is not composed of sodium chloride.

Epsom salt’s high magnesium content makes it an excellent choice for those wishing to supplement the body’s natural production of this mineral. Since the beneficial magnesium is released when

Epsom salt is dissolved in hot water, it is most commonly used in baths or foot soaks. Many advocates of this remedy claim that hot baths allow the magnesium to be absorbed into the skin; however, there is little research available to prove the veracity of these assertions, and most of the evidence is purely anecdotal.

More research is being conducted into the benefits and science behind Epsom salt soaks, though, and it is becoming increasingly popular in mainstream circles.

7 Benefits Of An Epsom Salt Foot Soak

1. Relieve Stress

Epsom salt relieves stress by relaxing tight muscles and easing inflammation. This stress relaxation then spreads throughout your body and brings you to a better state of mind, allowing for clearer cognitive ability.

2. Remedy Fungal Infections & Ingrown Toenails

Rather than directly treating the infection, Epsom salts are known to draw out the infection and help make the skin less susceptible to further issues while softening skin to make medication more effective.

Please note that it is still important to take any medications prescribed by your doctor, and if you suspect some sort of fungal infection, you should make an appointment as soon as possible.

3. Exfoliate Dry, Cracked Heels

Many people fail to give their feet the care they deserve. If you live in a dry environment, or experience painful cracked heels in the wintertime, due to overdrying, you should consider the exfoliating power of Epsom salts.

Pair an Epsom salt soak with foot scraping and extra moisturization for the full benefits. If you frequently wear sandals, you may have to switch to closed toed shoes and socks for a while to give your feet time to repair cracks.

4. Promotes Good Sleep

The anecdotal evidence claiming that Epsom salts improve magnesium levels in the body has not been backed by hard research. However, it is has been found that magnesium may help encourage deep sleep by producing melatonin.

Regardless, soaking your feet in a warm water bath gives you time to unwind, clear your mind, and relax from a hectic day. Making it more likely that you will fall asleep quicker and sleep more deeply.

5. Reduce Pain

If your job demands that you spend a lot of time on your feet, especially in shoes such as high heels, it is unlikely that your feet are very happy with you.

Soaking your sore feet in Epsom salts can decrease inflammation, remove the buildup of toxins, and decrease muscle cramping.

6. Eliminates Odorous Feet

Foot soaks of any kind serve to clean and deodorize your feet. Proper hygiene goes a long way in removing the stench from sweaty feet.

Be sure to keep shoes clean and dry and try to find footwear that breathes to allow moisture buildup to escape.

7. Eases Splinter Removal

Stubborn splinters can cause significant pain and swelling around the affected area. Soaking feet in warm water and Epsom salts can soften skin and pull out pus, loosening the splinter and making for easier removal. This method can also be beneficial for splinters in hands or fingers.

How To Use Epsom Salt For Foot Soaking

Taking the time to relax and soak your tired, sore feet in a warm tub of Epsom salts not only brings physical relief but can also restore you to a healthy mental state by bringing peace and relaxation.

The health of your feet is worth a little extra effort, don’t you think?

Epsom Salt Foot Soak

• Fill a small container, big enough to fit both your feet up to your ankles, with hot water to cover your feet and ½ cup of Epsom salt.
• Give the Epsom salt a few minutes to dissolve and then check the temperature of the water with your finger to ensure that it is not going to burn your feet.
• Slip overtaxed feet into the Epsom salt soak and relax for 30-45 minutes.
• Read a book, listen to music, meditate, or do something else that soothes and calms your mind.

Try adding a few drops of your favorite essential oil to the soak to bring added benefits.  

• Lavender essential oil: Add for increased relaxation effects, concentration, and better sleep. This is most effective when used right before bed.
• Peppermint essential oil: Add to increase alertness, improve digestion, and relieve a headache.
• Eucalyptus essential oil: Add to enhance antimicrobial effects of Epsom salt, soothe cold symptoms, and boost mental ability.
• Citrus essential oil: Add to boost your mood and encourage germ elimination.
• Tea tree essential oil: Add to calm redness and help with reducing inflammation.
• Lemongrass essential oil: Add to boost antifungal, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory abilities

After you are done soaking your feet, take a handful of Epsom salts and gently rub them over your heels and the hard parts of your feet for extra exfoliation.

Rinse feet with cool water and dry thoroughly, then put on lotion and socks to enhance moisturization. Repeat this process at least two times a week to see results. Try to avoid daily use as this can actually produce adverse effects by drying out your feet and encouraging cracking.

Other Uses For Epsom Salt

Remove Stubborn Food Buildup

Epsom salts can actually be used in the kitchen to help scrub stuck on food off of pots and pans. Simply add a handful to whatever you are washing, and the coarseness will dislodge caked on food without scratching pans.

Hand Wash

Mixing equal parts baby oil and Epsom salts in a bottle creates an excellent moisturizing and exfoliating handwash that also disinfects and cleans grimy hands. Try adding an essential oil for a scent boost.

All Over Skin Exfoliator

The exfoliating powers of Epsom salt do not stop at the feet. Following a bath or shower, when your skin is still wet, rub the crystals over any areas of your body that suffer from dry skin. It is particularly beneficial on knees, elbows, hands, and feet. 

Precautions

It is unwise to use Epsom Salts to treat chronic foot pain without consulting your doctor.

If you have continued or unexplained pain, sores, or blisters, stop use immediately and schedule an appointment with your podiatrist or general care physician.

Exposure to Epsom salt topically is unlikely to produce any side-effects and is generally considered safe when used appropriately.

Epsom salt can be an excellent choice for those wishing to give their feet a little extra love. Taking the time to look after your feet and treat yourself to a few minutes of quiet time can have a therapeutic effect on your entire body.

If you don’t already have an Epsom salt stash, take a trip to the drugstore today or purchase some online to invest in your hardworking feet.

The post 7 Reasons To Soak Your Feet In Epsom Salt + How To Do It appeared first on Natural Living Ideas.

Everyone likes a bright, healthy smile. However, using over-the-counter teeth brightening creams or even getting a whitening treatment from your dentist is expensive and, honestly, scary.

These bleaching treatments contain a hodgepodge of high-strength chemicals that can make teeth more sensitive and can permanently damage the tooth enamel and gum tissue if overused.

There is good news.

There are natural ways to whiten teeth, keep them healthy, and remineralized using non toxic ingredients.

Watch this one minute video on how to make this easy but effective too whitening powder.

Ingredients:

• 4 tablespoons bentonite clay
• 3 tablespoons calcium carbonate powder
• 1 tablespoon baking soda
• 1 tablespoon or more of stevia
• a few drops peppermint or spearmint essential oil

Why We Used These Ingredients:

The ingredient list does seem like an odd assortment to put together to clean and whiten teeth. However, it’s nothing compared to the laundry list of chemicals that’s in conventional toothpaste.

Bentonite Clay

Bacteria and toxins can quickly build up in the mouth, leading to impaired oral health, and even demineralized teeth. The demineralization of teeth is caused by a regular exposure of acids to your tooth enamel from the accumulation of bacterial plaque.

Bentonite clay is a natural, gentle cleanser, rich in minerals which can support tooth remineralization. It contains numerous nourishing elements such as calcium, magnesium, and silica that help to draw out heavy metals and toxins from the mouth.

Bentonite clay’s detoxifying properties not only reduce the level of mouth bacteria but can also help freshen breath and fight gum disease, while it’s absorptive benefits help remove stains from teeth over time.

Read Next: 11 Reasons You Should Put Bentonite Clay On Your Face + More Uses

Calcium Carbonate

This mineral, found in various rocks such as chalk, limestone, and marble, serves to polish teeth and restore them to full vibrancy.

It works by abrasion to target each tooth individually and remove built-up stains without harming tooth enamel. Its delicate scrubbing nature removes surface plaque and safely strips teeth of any trace of food or drink.

Plus, calcium carbonate also aids in the remineralization of teeth by giving your teeth the necessary calcium they require.

Baking Soda

Baking soda is one of the most common alternative toothpaste options and is even becoming popular among mainstream toothpaste producers as an added ingredient for extra whitening power.

This well-known powder works as a mild abrasive agent that gently removes plaque and creates an alkaline environment in the mouth to help eradicate bacteria.

Toothpaste that contains baking soda for buffing out surface stains has been shown to be more effective as a teeth whiteners than non-baking soda toothpaste. Keep in mind that there is no evidence to prove the veracity of baking soda on old tooth discoloration that is deeply engrained in enamel.

Peppermint Essential Oil

Peppermint essential oil is one of the greatest combatants of halitosis, and can almost completely eradicate bad breath in just a few uses.

This foul breath fighting power isn’t just smoke and mirrors, however. Peppermint oil actually targets the particular type of bacteria, known as anaerobic bacteria that develops in the mouth and can lead to halitosis and gum disease, cutting the problem of bad breath off at the source.

How To Make Tooth Whitening Powder

Add four tablespoons of bentonite clay powder to a 4 oz glass jar.

Typically it’s not advisable to use metal utensils when working with bentonite clay because the metals can leach from the utensil and be pulled into the clay. However, stainless steel has minimal effects on the clay. Plus, it’s not in contact with the clay for very long.

Next, add in two tablespoons of calcium carbonate powder to the clay.

Then, add in one tablespoon of baking soda.

Optional: add in a tablespoon of stevia. Mix well.

Finally, add in a few drops of spearmint or peppermint essential oil. Mix well.

To use, add a little to a wet toothbrush (or dip the brush into the jar) and brush as normal. Make separate jars of tooth powder for each family member to avoid cross-contamination.

6 More Natural Ways To Whiten Teeth

1. Oil Pulling

Due to its high lauric acid content, and appealing taste, coconut oil is a popular choice for the ancient oral health remedy known as oil pulling.

Swishing a tablespoon of coconut oil around in your mouth for 20 minutes per day can eradicate harmful bacteria and deeply clean gums and teeth. Anecdotal evidence claims that daily oil pulling can help brighten teeth and restore their pure white color. 

Read Next: Activated Charcoal & Coconut Oil Pulling Tabs

2. Apple Cider Vinegar

This potent vinegar has been shown to have a bleaching effect on teeth, as well as antibacterial properties that contribute to oral health.

However, research also suggests that continued lengthy exposure to ACV may soften teeth. Limit use to once per week and avoid extended contact with teeth. Simply swish it around in your mouth for about 2 minutes before rinsing and brushing well.

3. Strawberries

Many people tout the use of strawberries as an effective whitening solution. Claiming that the malic acid present in these berries can reduce the appearance of surface stains on the teeth.

Smashing a strawberry and mixing it with baking soda may provide whiter teeth. Be sure to limit the use of this remedy to 1-2 times per week, as overuse could damage enamel.

4. Avoid Staining Drinks

Soda, red wine, coffee, and dark teas are all guilty culprits when it comes to staining teeth. Though it would be a crime to eradicate these beverages from your diet entirely, try limiting your exposure to them by drinking from a straw and brushing your teeth directly afterward.

If you experience heavy discoloration, it may be wise to cut down on the number of staining beverages you drink each week.

5. Hydrogen Peroxide

Hydrogen peroxide has long been used as a disinfecting agent for minor cut and scrapes. This disinfecting power can also be utilized to eradicate harmful mouth bacteria and bleach those pearly whites without damaging chemicals.

Use a diluted concentration, about 1.5-3% as mouthwash before brushing your teeth. Be sure to rinse thoroughly and limit use to once per week to avoid enamel deterioration.

6. Brush & Floss Regularly

Sometimes it can be easy to let dental hygiene fall by the wayside. Make a point to become diligent about brushing and flossing, as this is the most effective way to limit food buildup and staining.

Flossing cleans those hard-to-reach areas and prevents plaque buildup while encouraging healthy gums, and removing bacteria. Brushing polishes teeth and can fight bad breath.

Also, be sure that you are regularly scheduling dental cleanings to stay on top of your oral health, and avoid having to deal with issues down the line.

Read Next: I Brushed My Teeth With Activated Charcoal For A Week, Here’s What Happened…

The post How To Make A Natural Teeth Whitening Powder appeared first on Natural Living Ideas.

Coconuts are grown in abundance in southern Asia, Malaysia, and Polynesia. While they’re often confused for being a nut, a coconut is actually a one-seeded drupe, a fruit that consists of an outer skin and a pulpy, succulent middle layer, with a hard, woody inner shell that encloses a single seed. In Sanskrit, the coconut palm is known as Kalpavriksha, which means the “‘tree which gives all that is necessary for living,” as nearly all parts of it can be used, the water, milk, flesh, sugar, and oil. Even the husks and leaves are used as materials in furnishings and decoration.

Creamed coconut and coconut milk are made in a surprisingly similar way to their dairy counterparts. The flesh is grated and soaked in hot water, and the coconut cream rises to the top and can be skimmed off. The liquid that remains is then squeezed through a cheesecloth to extract a white liquid that is the coconut milk. When you crack open a fresh coconut, the milky-white substance that seeps out is natural coconut water, but when it’s blended with the coconut flesh and strained, the result is a thicker coconut “milk.”

Coconuts are highly nutritious, packed with fiber and rich in vitamins C, E, B1, B3, B5, and B6 as well as minerals, including iron, selenium, sodium, calcium, magnesium and phosphorous. Unlike cow’s milk, coconut milk is lactose-free so it can be used as a milk substitute. It’s a good option for anyone allergic to dairy and nut- or grain-based milk, plus it’s vegan and good for plant-based eaters.

Given all of that, it’s really not surprising that coconut milk can benefit you from the inside and out. We’ll discuss the benefits shortly, but first, here’s how to make your own. 

How To Make Coconut Milk At Home

There is nothing more delicious or nutritious than making your own coconut milk. Here is our favorite recipe for making your very own coconut milk.

What you need

• 8 ounces of unsweetened organic shredded coconut
• 4 cups of near boiling hot water
• Measuring cup
• Blender
• Nut bag
• Bowl, medium sized
• Clean mason jars with lids

How to make it

1. Put the shredded coconut into the blender.
2. Pour the hot water on top of the coconut.
3. Let this mixture set for a few minutes. This will give the coconut time to soften.
4. Blend the mixture on high speed until it looks milky. This usually takes a couple of minutes. Don’t worry if you still see flakes of coconut in the mixture, this is ok.
5. Place the nut bag over a medium bowl. Pour the mixture into the bag.
6. Close the bag. Use both hands to gently squeeze the bag out into the bowl. Keep squeezing until you have gotten out as much milk as possible. Discard the coconut left in the bag or use a dehydrator to make coconut flour.
7. Clean your mason jars well.
8. Pour the milk into the jars and seal.

This milk will keep for 4 days in the refrigerator or for up to 3 months in the freezer. Just leave some room at the top before placing the lid on the jar if you are going to freeze. Keep in mind that the milk will separate when frozen. Don’t worry about this, it is normal. After the milk has thawed, just shake well before using.

10 Health & Beauty Benefits Of Coconut Milk

1. Treat dry, damaged hair

Coconut milk is an excellent moisturizer. It can be used to treat dry, damaged hair as well as to soothe an itchy, irritated scalp. Simply place a can of unsweetened coconut milk into your refrigerator overnight so that it will harden. In the morning, section dry hair into 3 to 5 sections, and then apply the coconut milk section by section, all the way from the roots to the ends of your hair. Put a shower cap over your hair and then allow the mask to set for about 20 minutes. Afterward, rinse it out in the shower. This is an excellent treatment not only for restoring dry, damaged hair but for repairing split ends.

2. Prevent hair loss and encourage hair growth

Coconut milk contains all the essential nutrients required for healthy hair. It can even boost follicles and promote hair growth. For this purpose, mix about a quarter cup of coconut milk with a half cup of water. For additional benefits, add a few drops of lavender essential oil, which not only provides a pleasant aroma, but improves blood circulation, and can also prevent hair loss while promoting hair growth. Massage the mixture into your scalp, and allow it to sit for about two hours. Afterward, rinse well in the shower.

3. A hair detangler and conditioner

Coconut milk not only makes a great organic hair conditioner to help soften your hair, and even make it thicker and longer, but it acts as a natural detangler. You can simply rub some of the milk into the length of your hair while combing it out to easily comb through tangles. Another option is to use it as a leave-in conditioner. It will provide added volume without leaving your hair greasy. Add a small amount of coconut milk onto the palm of your hand, and then rub your hands together. Bend forward, so that your hair flows toward the floor, and then rub the milk onto your hair, working from roots to ends.

4. Prevent premature aging

Coconut milk can help improve the appearance and health of your skin as well. As it’s loaded with Vitamin C, it helps to maintain skin elasticity and flexibility, while being rich in copper, it also aids in preventing age spots, sagging skin, and wrinkles. Use it as an ingredient in a facial mask by combining a half cup of coconut milk with one tablespoon of raw honey and five drops of eucalyptus oil. Apply it using a clean cotton pad to your face, and any other areas of the skin where wrinkles are present. Allow it to sit for about 10 minutes and then rinse with lukewarm water. It will help your skin stay hydrated and looking years younger.

5. Soothe a sunburn

If you have sun damaged or sunburned skin, simply apply a thin layer of cool coconut milk to the affected area. The oil and fats in the milk help to restore moisture, reduce redness, and ease the pain. You can use it any time of the day, but be sure to apply it just before bed, leaving it on overnight and rinsing it off in the morning.

6. Prevent acne

If you have acne prone skin, use coconut milk as a cleanser. Its antibacterial properties help to prevent breakouts, but the oil and fats in the milk don’t clog pores.

7. An overall skin moisturizer

You’ve probably heard of milk baths, well coconut milk is even more beneficial than traditional cow’s milk due to its incredibly soothing properties. Add a cup of coconut milk to your bath as the water is running – you can also add a half cup of rose water for additional benefits and a pleasant aroma. Soak in the bath for about 15 minutes to restore moisture in dry skin and come out silky smooth. You can also rub coconut milk directly on your skin to promote healthier, glowing skin and combat dryness.

8. Support heart health

Coconut milk is a great way to promote better overall health by consuming it too, including improving heart health. That’s because coconuts are one of the best sources for lauric acid, which provides antiviral and antibacterial properties as well as being a healthy fatty acid that can improve cholesterol levels. A 2013 study found that participants who consumed coconut milk porridge for five days a week over an eight-week period experienced decreased LDL (the “bad” cholesterol) levels, and increased HDL (the “good” cholesterol). They concluded that the coconut fat in coconut milk is actually beneficial to overall cholesterol levels rather than causing a detrimental effect.

Coconut milk has also been found to help lower blood pressure and free plaque buildup from blood vessels, further supporting heart health and even lowering the risk of a heart attack.

9. Weight loss

Coconut milk is great for weight loss it helps to build muscle and reduce fat. After working out, the muscles need lots of nutrients, including those that are found in coconut milk like potassium and magnesium, which help repair broken down tissue and encourage it to grow back stronger. As coconut milk is high in healthy fats, it helps make you feel more satisfied, filling you up quicker and preventing overeating and snacking throughout the day so that you can lose weight easier too.

10. Lowering inflammation

The medium-chain fatty acids, or MCTs, in coconut milk are known to help lower inflammation. Inflammation is associated with many types of health issues, including arthritis, muscles aches and joint pains, which means adding coconut milk to your diet can help reduce both swelling and pain.

3 Homemade Health & Beauty Products Made With Coconut Oil

Coconut milk is soothing and nutritional. The great news is that it is healthy not only to drink but also to use on your skin and hair. Here are 3 recipes to try.

Rich and Creamy Chocolate Coconut Shake

This shakes tastes almost too good to be healthy, but it is. Enjoy for a sweet pick-me-up treat anytime.

Ingredients

• 4 ounces full fat coconut cream (frozen)
• 2 tbsp grass fed butter
• 8 ounces coconut milk
• 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
• 2 tablespoons grass fed collagen peptides
• 1 tablespoon raw honey
• ½ tablespoon almond butter
• 1 frozen banana
• Pinch of sea salt

How to make it

1. Add all ingredients to a blender.
2. Blend until rich and creamy.
3. Enjoy immediately

Coconut Milk Exfoliating Scrub

Scrub away dead cells to reveal soft and nourished new skin using this coconut milk scrub.

Ingredients

• ½ cup coconut milk
• ½ cup turbinado sugar
• 1/2 tablespoon organic coconut oil – warmed

How to make it

1. Combine the coconut milk and the sugar in a small bowl.
2. Add the warmed coconut oil.
3. Apply to clean skin in a circular fashion.
4. Rinse and pat dry.

Tropical Leave in Hair Conditioner

Do you suffer from tangles everytime you wash your hair? If so, this all natural leave in treatment will nourish your hair and allow you to brush through it with ease.

Ingredients

• 1/4 cup filtered water
• 1 tablespoon full fat coconut milk
• 10 drops lavender essential oil
• Small spray bottle

How to make it

1. Combine all ingredients and whisk well.
2. Pour into a spray bottle.
3. Spray on towel-dried hair and comb through.

Read Next: Coconut Water: 10 Reasons You Should Enjoy A Glass

The post 10 Coconut Milk Benefits For Hair, Skin & Health appeared first on Natural Living Ideas.

Long before disposable razors, waxing kits, and laser treatments, men and women removed unwanted body hair using a simple process known as sugaring.

The ancient art of body sugaring is a method that was widely practiced in the Middle East and North Africa as far back as 1900 BC. It is said that Cleopatra and friends employed body sugaring to keep skin smooth and hairless.

Although there’s no shortage of hair removal options in modern times, body sugaring is making a bit of a comeback. And it’s not hard to see why: body sugaring is safe, all-natural, effective, inexpensive, and less wasteful than other treatments in today’s age.

What is Body Sugaring?

Body sugar is a mixture of three super simple ingredients: white sugar, lemon juice, and water. When heated up together, they create a thick, malleable paste with a honey-like consistency that can be spread on the skin and “flicked” to remove hair.

To apply, spread body sugar in the opposite direction of hair growth. The paste is very pliable and can be thinned and smoothed along the skin surface. Keep the paste in one piece and let it sit on the skin for a few seconds. To remove hair, pull the sugar paste off in the same direction of hair growth by quickly tearing it off the skin in one smooth movement. It takes a little practice to get the proper flick, but it’s easy to do once you get the hang of it.

Here’s a good video demonstration of how body sugaring is accomplished.

7 Benefits of Body Sugaring

Body sugaring has plenty of advantages over contemporary hair removal treatments:

1. No Harsh Chemicals

Safe enough to eat, body sugar paste is free of chemical agents and is made with ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen.

Waxing products, on the other hand, contain resins, chemicals, preservatives, and dyes that are irritating to the skin. Some ingredients to look out for in waxing kits are petroleum-based mineral oils, synthetic resins like glyceryl hydrogenated rosinate, and preservatives like propylparaben.

Likewise, depilation agents, such as hair removal creams, are made with inorganic chemicals like calcium hydroxide, barium sulfide, and calcium thioglycolate that break down proteins in the hair follicle to dissolve them.

2. Won’t Irritate Your Skin

Repetitive shaving can leave nicks and cuts in its wake, and extra sensitive areas may be prone to red spots and bumps. Waxing, too, can make the skin red, sore, and inflamed since it can pull live skin cells off along with the hair.

Body sugaring is incredibly gentle and is suitable for all skin types, even sensitive skin. The paste is hypoallergenic and adheres only to hair and dead skin cells – and never live skin. When it is flicked away, it won’t leave behind red patches or painful bumps. And because it takes dead skin away too, it has the added benefit of mild exfoliation.

3. Less Painful

Any time hair is plucked from the flesh, you will feel something. But because body sugaring doesn’t tear at living skin cells, it is far less painful than waxing treatments.

4. Long Lasting

The results of body sugaring are long lasting, with the time frame between treatments being about six weeks. This is because the sugar paste permeates deeply into the hair follicle, all the way down to the roots. When flicked away, it takes the entire hair strand from bulb to shaft.

Hair only needs to be ? of an inch long for it to work. When the hair regrows, it will come back finer, lighter, and sparser. And if you do body sugaring regularly, it can lead to permanently hair-free legs, lips, armpits, and bikini lines.

5. Zero Waste

When it comes to hair removal, disposable razors generate a staggering amount of waste: these small plastic gadgets are too small and too difficult to disassemble for recycling and so they are heaped at the garbage dump at a rate of 2 billion per year in the US alone.

Not requiring any special tools or equipment, body sugaring is a true zero waste operation. It doesn’t need strips or popsicle sticks or any other parts to do its job, and when you are finished using your sugar ball, it can be tossed in the compost heap.

6. Reduced Risk of Ingrown Hairs

Ingrown hairs occur when the hair follicle breaks beneath the skin surface, curling back or growing sideways into the skin. More prevalent in people with curly or coarse hair, ingrown hairs result in painful, inflamed red bumps that are typically caused by shaving or waxing too frequently.

Body sugaring reduces the risk of ingrown hairs because hair is removed in the direction of hair growth, which helps keep the hair follicle intact to minimize breakage.

For added protection against ingrown hairs, it’s important to exfoliate the skin before applying the sugar paste. Try one of these homemade scrubs to remove dead skin. After you’ve performed the body sugaring treatment, apply moisturizer liberally to all your freshly hairless spots.

7. Easy Clean Up

After receiving a waxing treatment, oil-based substances – like petroleum jelly – are used to break down the leftover resins to be wiped away.

Body sugaring paste, however, is water soluble and requires only a simple rinse with plain water.

How to Make Body Sugar

The popularity of body sugaring is growing – more and more salons and spas are adding professional body sugaring treatments to their repertoire. You can also find pre-made body sugaring paste for sale, like this jar by Moom.

But if you’re more of the DIY type, sugaring paste is really easy to make:

Ingredients

• 2 cups of white cane sugar
• ¼ cup of lemon juice
• cup of water
• 1 teaspoon of guar gum (optional thickening agent)

Instructions

With a medium sauce pan on the stove top, add sugar, lemon juice, water, and optional guar gum. Mix together until well blended. To prevent the paste from burning, set heat on low to slowly bring up the temperature. Stir the paste continuously, increasing heat to medium in stages. Once the paste reaches a boil (about 250°F), it should be a golden yellow color. Remove pot from heat and allow the mixture to cool completely before transferring to a glass jar.

To use, simply pop the container into the microwave for a few moments to warm it up for easier spreading. If you have leftovers, sugar paste will last indefinitely if you store it in the refrigerator.

Read Next: How To Make A Cinnamon Sugar Scrub To Slough Off Dead Skin

The post How To Do Body Sugaring At Home – The Ancient, All Natural Hair Removal Technique appeared first on Natural Living Ideas.

Tamanu oil is a precious, exotic oil that’s derived from the tamanu nut, grown on Ati trees which are native to the South Pacific. The tree itself, scientifically known as Calophyllum inophyllum, was discovered thousands of years ago by native Tahitians, while the oil has been around for centuries, used to help heal a wide range of skin conditions. In fact, it’s remained an essential part of tropical cultures in this part of the world.

The tree produces a small yellow fruit that has a large nut kernel inside which is where the rich oil can be found – it’s not easy to obtain, as the nuts must first be laid out in the sun for up to two months, and kept away from moisture. As they dry, a dark, sticky oil appears on the surface which is then harvested and processed into tamanu oil.

Around the turn of the 20th century, news about tamanu oil and its ability to treat leprosy and relieve pain spread to the Western World, and by 1918, French scientists discovered its many beneficial topical uses, including the ability to help heal and regenerate skin. Despite its powerful properties, the expense and difficulty of transporting it to other regions outside of the South Pacific resulted in it being mostly forgotten for decades, until being rediscovered once again, right in the U.S.

The majority of tamanu oil’s health benefits have been attributed to its high level of beneficial fatty acids, including about one-third oleic acid, one-third linoleic acid and about 10% stearic and palmitic acid. The remainder is made up of benzoic acid, terpenes, lipids, saturated fats, and antioxidants. The oil is said to not only offer antioxidant properties but antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, analgesic and anti-neuralgic properties, among others.

Here’s How Tamanu Oil Can Benefit Your Health & Beauty

1. Anti-aging

Tamanu oil can help prevent premature aging, helping to battle those signs like wrinkles and fine lines, thanks to its high level of monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats which also function as antioxidants – that means that they’re able to seek out, find and neutralize free radicals. Free radicals can cause healthy cells to mutate, leading to chronic diseases like cancer, and they can also weaken the elasticity of skin, contribute to wrinkles and harm the skin’s own ability to regenerate. The important fatty acids found in the oil help to nourish and lubricate the skin to maintain firmness and elasticity.

2. Sun Protection

Offering even more anti-aging benefits as well as the ability to reduce the risk of developing skin cancer, research from France has found that the oil is able to protect against UV-induced DNA damage and oxidative stress thanks to its biological UV filter which has an SPF range of 18 to 22. Interestingly, Polynesians used the oil on their skin to protect it from harsh sunlight, so long before scientists proved that it works, people in the South Pacific knew this by actually utilizing what they had naturally grown in the islands.

3. Healing Skin Problems

Tamanu oil is one of the best for healing skin conditions, including rashes and eczema, psoriasis as well as acne, sores, insect bites and other problems. It’s able to penetrate all three layers of the skin which allow its nourishing antimicrobial properties to work very effectively, getting to the root of the issue. It’s highly effective for fighting potential microbes that manifest as those common skin disorders. The oil has been extensively studied, including research from The Department of Biological Science and Technology, School of Pharmacy at China Medical University in Taiwan and was published in the journal Oncology. Experts confirmed its anti-inflammatory abilities and found that it was highly effective for numerous skin conditions.

A 2002 study showed that the oil offers an excellent inhibitory effect on bacterial growth, particularly on Propionibacterium acnes, which is an acne-causing germ, proving that it truly is outstanding for treating acne. It’s best used as a spot treatment using the following recipe as it can clog pores:

Add one drop of tea tree essential oil and one drop of tamanu oil to a cotton ball and dab it on the affected areas just before bedtime. Don’t rinse, allow it to penetrate overnight and then wash your face thoroughly in the morning.

4. Eliminating Or Reducing The Appearance Of Scars

Researchers have also discovered that tamanu oil stimulates the growth of new healthy tissue, in a process scientifically referred to as “cicatrisation,” which is what makes it so healing. In 2002, a study by Beausoleil and Lehman published in The International Journal of Cosmetic Science, looked at its scar reducing the ability, which involved participants who had visible scars that were present for a least one year. The oil was applied daily for nine weeks and resulted in significant improvement in the appearance of the subjects’ scars. Their overall size has consistently decreased throughout the nine-week period, with their length diminishing by an average of 2.8mm, and their width by 1.2mm.

5. Fading Stretch Marks

One of the most common scars in women who’ve had children are stretch marks, something that can seem virtually impossible to eliminate, but just like tamanu oil can heal scars, it can also help to fade those stretch marks due to its powerful cell regeneration and renewal abilities

If you have stretch marks, try making this DIY cream using tamanu oil:

Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup shea butter
• 1/4 cup cocoa butter
• 1/4 cup water
• 1 tbsp tamanu oil
• 7 drops lavender essential oil

1. Add the shea butter and cocoa butter to a Pyrex measuring cup.
2. Heat the water in a pot on the stove over medium-low. Gently place the measuring cup inside, making sure the water doesn’t get into the measuring cup.
3. The water will gently melt the cocoa and shea butter. Once melted, remove from heat, allow the mixture to cool slightly and then add the tamanu oil.
4. Place the measuring cup in the refrigerator for about 20 minutes.
5. Remove the cup and then add the lavender oil.
6. Use a hand mixer to whip the partially solidified mixture until creamy.
7. Rub the cream liberally over all stretch marks daily.
8. Store the remaining cream in a clean, sterilized jar.

6. Healing Skin Injuries

Due to tamanu oil’s stimulant nature and antioxidant compounds, it’s also ideal for healing cuts, scrapes, bruises and other wounds. Its fatty acids and antioxidants help to stimulate the healing process of damaged cells, which helps to prevent or minimize the appearance of resulting scars. The Ancient Polynesians used tamanu oil to heal many different types of wounds, thanks to its antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and moisturizing compounds that speed up the rate at which wounds heal.

You can gently apply tamanu oil on nicks, cuts and scrapes, bug bites, burns, sores and all sorts of other wounds using a cotton ball.

7. Pain Relief

Tamanu oil doesn’t just help a wound heal faster, it can relieve the pain as well. In Fiji, the oil was traditionally used for relieving the pain of sciatica, shingles, neuralgia, rheumatism and leprous neuritis. It can be readily be applied to sore, painful joints, as well as the pain that results from an insect bite or sunburn, and you only need to apply a tiny amount for it to be effective. 

8. Soothing Skin Irritations

In addition to its powerful healing and pain relieving abilities, tamanu oil is excellent for protecting the skin and soothing irritated areas, such as on the hands, feet or extremities and spots that tend to be prone to bacterial infection like the underarms. It’s cooling, anti-inflammatory, and moisturizing properties all work to reduce the severity of the irritation.

9. Fight Off Body Odor & Fungus

Tamanu oil has a distinct nutty smell – a lot more pleasant than body odor, without a doubt. As a result, the oil can be used under the arms, as well as other areas of the body that tend to perspire a lot in order to reduce body odor. When used on the feet and toes, it can also help to eliminate a fungal infection, while also eliminating that awful foot odor.

If you have a fungal infection, tamanu oil is ideal for getting rid of it. Just place four drops of it along with a drop of oregano essential oil onto a cotton ball and dab it onto the affected areas. It’s best done following a shower. You may want to get in the habit of using it every time you shower – and, if it’s a nail fungus issue, leave the cotton ball with the oil solution on the affected nail, holding it with a band-aid. Change it out at least once per day.

10. Soothing A Diaper Rash

There’s nothing worse than seeing your child in pain, and a diaper rash can be incredibly painful. Thankfully, tamanu oil can help both your little one and you enjoy relief. It’s been shown to help heal a diaper rash in just a day, and sometimes even faster, all without one chemical compound. If you’re a new parent or know someone who is, this oil may be one of the best things you can stock up on, or give, not only because of its ability to heal diaper rash but to fight off those other rashes common in infants, like eczema. It’s pretty much a cure-all, with its natural, healthy constituents helping the skin to heal faster.

11. Teething Relief

Right up there with a diaper rash is the pain of teething, and tamanu oil can help with that too. Combine just one drop with coconut oil and rub onto baby’s gums

12. Strengthening The Immune System

As the oil has the ability to penetrate all three layers of the skin, it can also get into your bloodstream to help boost your immune system thanks to its high level of anti-inflammatory, antifungal, antiseptic, antiviral and antibacterial compounds. It helps to fight against a wide range of pathogens along with environmental pollutants and irritations. Applying it serves as kind of an “immune system shield” for your skin, bolstering its first line of defense.

13. Improve The Health Of Your Hair & Scalp

When it comes to promoting healthier hair and a healthier scalp, tamanu oil is ideal. It provides moisture, restores shine, fights scalp fungal infections and reduces scalp inflammation. If your scalp is dry and flaky, this oil can come to the rescue due to its antifungal properties, which means no more dandruff and embarrassing flakes. As it can also penetrate through all three layers of the skin, it provides a significant amount of hydration too.

If your locks are dry and lifeless, tamanu oil can help with that too – simply by running a bit through your hair and allowing it to sit about an hour before washing. It helps to replace lost oils, leaving you with better moisturized, healthier looking, shinier hair.

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