Enticingly Simple

Author: Enticingly Simple

Not only do sweet almond trees have impressively delicate flowers, but their seeds (almonds) are also used in a wide variety of food products as well as for producing sweet almond oil. Almond oil has a pale yellow color and is used heavily in the cosmetic and beauty industry due to its skin-nourishing emollient properties.

Natural carrier oils like sweet almond oil have been surging in popularity for their many uses and promising benefits. This particular carrier oil is very high in vitamin A, vitamin E, and monosaturated fats. Not to be confused with bitter almond essential oil, sweet almond oil is packed with benefits and is quite safe, even when applied directly to the skin. So, let’s dig a little deeper as we explore the amazing benefits of this oil.

Almond Oil for Dark Circles

We’ve already discussed how almond oil can be used as a natural remedy for dark circles elsewhere here on Enticingly Simple. But, to recap, sweet almond oil has anti-inflammatory properties, is quite an effective moisturizer, is rich in antioxidants, and is an effective emollient. All of these properties make this oil very useful for applying it to dark circles under the eyes.

Besides the obvious benefits to the sensitive skin under the eye, almond oil is also said to aid in the contracting of dilated blood vessels that cause discoloration under the eye in the first place. Also, it’s said to be a great source of vitamin K, which can reduce dark circles when applied topically. However, this point has been debated by some, and further research is still needed to substantiate the claim more fully.

When this great oil is coupled with other ingredients packed with amazing skin nourishing benefits (Manuka Honey, for example), it makes for an amazing natural solution for you if you have dark circles under your eyes. For further reading and recipes, read our other post: “Almond Oil for Dark Circles“.

Smooth and Healthy Skin

 Almond oil is mild and gentle and can be used by people with sensitive skin. In fact, it has been named one of the best massage oils for infants. When rubbed onto the skin, almond oil is gently absorbed, keeping the skin hydrated and comfortable all day. Better yet, its pleasant scent has delicately sweet and nutty overtones.

Plus, if you want to vary the scent from time to time, just add any essential oil scent of your choice. This can be done safely since almond oil is a carrier oil that will effectively dilute any essential oil of your choosing in accordance with the best safety practices in regard to essential oil use.

There are so many synthetic ingredients in store-bought lotions and skin balms. So, those who are wise and health-conscious choose to always opt for something natural or homemade instead. For example, homemade body butter is packed with multiple ingredients that promote dashingly healthy skin.

And, as you’ve probably guessed already, almond oil is often one of the main ingredients in body butter! Homemade body butter is also very simple and easy to make. Check out one recipe below that includes almond oil as the main ingredient.

Whipped Body Butter With Cocoa

This simple recipe is very easy to make; it uses only a few basic ingredients. Though the ingredients in this recipe are simple, their benefits to your skin are wide-ranging. So, go ahead and make this body butter for yourself, then see how your own skin improves first-hand. What you’ll need is ½ cup cocoa butter, ½ cup coconut oil, ½ cup shea butter, ½ cup almond oil,  and 10-30 drops of essential oil of your choice.

Instructions:

  1. Excluding the essential oils, go ahead and gently heat up all other ingredients in a saucepan, glass container, or double boiler.
  2. When melted, remove from the heat and stir in your essential oils.
  3. Allow the mixture to cool in the fridge for an hour until it begins to solidify.
  4. With a hand or cake mixer, whip the mixture for 10 minutes or until fluffy.
  5. Place the mixture in the fridge until thoroughly cooled.
  6. Store your homemade body butter in a glass jar with a tight lid.

Again, if you want smooth and healthy skin, almond oil is one oil that will help you achieve that goal. Go ahead and try the above recipe. You’ll absolutely love it. For more information and body butter recipes, take a look at our page: “Quick and Easy: How to Make Body Butter.”

Oil Cleansing Method: Oil Dissolves Oil

For deep skin cleansing, oil wouldn’t be the first ingredient that comes to mind for most people. Well, if you’ve heard of the oil cleansing method, you know about the concept of oil dissolving oil. For those with normal skin, fatty acid and high oleic oils like almond oil and avocado oil are very useful for cleansing skin without having to resort to harsh chemicals. In this method, skin, dirt, and debris are cleared away by using oil instead of harsh cleansers and chemicals.

There’s simply no reason to dry out your face with today’s cleansers unless you want wrinkles, irritated skin, or more acne flare-ups. Now, of course, no one wants those things. So, opt for natural ingredients that won’t strip your skin of the oils it needs in order to heal itself and effectively hold in moisture. Regular application of oils for facial cleansing will allow them to penetrate deep into the skin, dislodging the dirt and debris accumulated in pores and around hair follicles. When it comes to the health of your skin, never skimp by failing to use natural and homemade face cleansers.

Now, for those of you who may be acne-prone, there are more preferred kinds of oils for your skin type. Studies show that acne sufferers may benefit the most from oils rich in linoleic acid since those individuals usually have low levels of linoleic acid in their skin lipids. These natural oils include hemp oil, rosehip oil, grapeseed oil, and safflower oil. Safflower and grapeseed are especially good at balancing your skin’s natural oils if you have problems with acne. Furthermore, it’s less likely that these oils will clog your pores if you already have an oily skin type.

Eczema and Psoriasis Relief

Eczema and Psoriasis are autoimmune conditions caused by the body’s reaction to internal triggers. While each person’s experience with these conditions varies, one thing is for certain: Maintaining proper skin moisture is extremely important. The need to use moisturizers is quite common with these conditions because the skin is unable to maintain the proper amount of moisture. Therefore, oils and other emollients will help to lock in moisture, promoting the skin’s natural ability to heal itself.

Almond oil, as an emollient, is very effective at locking in skin moisture. Again, there’s no need to turn to store-bought lotions that contain ingredients neither you nor I would be able to pronounce. If your most important concern is to keep your skin moisturized, natural moisturizers like almond oil and others are just as effective at locking in moisture as the endless choices found at the store. Plus, the benefits of almond oil can also be combined with benefits from other natural oils when mixed.

Again, natural emollients should be used to assist the skin’s moisturization ability. But, if you have a more severe case of eczema or psoriasis, you should seek medical advice from your doctor for other possible treatments when moisturization alone isn’t enough. Also, always be sure to try any new moisturizer on a small part of your skin before applying it to the entire body if you have skin that’s easily irritated to make sure it won’t cause more frequent flare-ups.

Skin Rash Treatment

Skin rashes are very common in small children wearing diapers and adults as well. The constant rubbing of your skin against hard materials, as well as skin-to-skin friction, can easily cause soreness, resulting in chafed skin. To tackle this problem, most doctors prescribe zinc-based creams to their patients, where zinc functions as a kind of skin barrier that prevents any further irritation, allowing the skin to heal.

For those who’d like to avoid using zinc-oxide-containing synthetic creams for treating rashes, almond oil is a great alternative. It’s said to be naturally rich in minerals such as zinc and helps to reduce inflammation without irritating your skin.

Reducing Signs of Aging and Fine Lines

We all enjoy having smooth and youthful-looking skin, right? But do we know what actually helps us maintain such beautiful and flawless looks? Young and beautiful skin is a result of a structural protein called collagen. It forms an even layer of padding under the skin, which serves to keep it taut yet supple. As we start to age, the padding offered by the collagen cells begins to thin and break down, making it light and uneven.

Premature aging is caused by external factors such as excessive sun exposure, dehydration, lack of proper nutrition, tobacco smoking, and chemical exposure. While it’s not possible to stop the aging process altogether(sorry, it’s really not possible), almond oil is highly regarded as an oil that promotes skin health and helps to prevent the underlying causes of premature skin aging.

Again, not to sound like a broken record, but maintaining proper skin moisturization is a necessity for healthy skin. Almond oil is an especially well-rounded oil for doing just that.

 Sleek and Shiny Hair

The benefits of almond oil on your hair and scalp are rather obvious due to what we’ve already discussed in terms of its ability to promote healthy, rejuvenated skin. Healthy hair begins with a healthy scalp. Did you know that those who suffer from dry scalp and dandruff tend to experience greater hair loss than those who don’t? One study, in particular, shows that 150 men who used anti-dandruff shampoo for a period of 6 months not only found dandruff relief but also experienced decreased hair loss.

So, while the main cause of hair loss is not dandruff or other scalp conditions, people who have those conditions tend to have a higher incidence of hair loss. This may be due to excess scratching of the scalp, inflammation, or clogged hair follicles, which are all common skin conditions relating to the scalp.

You can apply almond oil before washing your hair by gently massaging the oil into your scalp and working your way from the roots of your hair to the tips. It’s suggested to do this 20-30 minutes before washing your hair so that it has time to penetrate and moisturize the scalp. Once finished, go ahead and wash your hair with a gentle shampoo. If preferred, you can follow up with a natural leave-in conditioner. Jojoba oil is another solid choice for healthy hair and scalp, too, maybe even more preferred than almond oil. For more application ideas and further details related to this, you should check out our post on Jojoba oil.

Closing Thoughts

Well, if you haven’t tried almond oil for any of the uses we’ve discussed, you ought to go ahead and give it a try. Countless individuals have experienced the benefits of this natural oil, as well as many other oils. With such a wide range of naturally effective solutions available for our most common and basic skin-care needs, there’s no reason to resort to synthetic products.

Many people complain that natural solutions aren’t really solutions at all and that the “go natural” movement is just a fad. They’ll also pretend that almost every natural benefit related to natural ingredients found online must be a tale and legend since there’s so much misinformation on the internet and in the industry. Following this reasoning, they give into their assumptions by automatically assuming that any claimed benefit of a natural compound or product must be inaccurate.

While that’s simply not the case, and while there are studies to show the efficacy of many natural alternatives, let’s just entertain their reasoning for a bit. You see, it’s also been said that many of the claims made by synthetic cosmetic manufacturers aren’t true either. Those same manufacturers also spend billions of dollars to get us to purchase their products.

So, what about their products? Well,  for the most part, they fall way short of the claims they make as well. I don’t know about you, but if I was given the option to use something on my skin that wasn’t really effective at delivering on its claims, I’d rather use something like a correctly mixed natural oil rather than a cocktail of chemicals created in some lab (some of which may be carcinogenic). Really, friend, ditch the chemicals!

Sweet Almond Oil Benefits FAQs

How does sweet almond oil smell?

It has a light, nutty aroma, similar to the scent of fresh almonds (hence the name). The smell is pleasant and not very strong.

What is the texture of sweet almond oil?

Sweet almond oil has a lightweight, silky texture. It is moisturizing but absorbs easily into the skin and does not feel greasy.

What are some uses of sweet almond oil?

It’s commonly used as a moisturizer for skin and hair. It also works well as a massage oil and carrier oil for diluting essential oils.

Does sweet almond oil stain?

Sweet almond oil does not stain but can leave oil marks on fabric. The oil marks can be removed by pre-treating with dish soap before washing.

How long does sweet almond oil last?

Unopened, sweet almond oil lasts 12-18 months. Opened bottles should be used within six months. Store in a cool, dark place to maximize shelf life.

Is sweet almond oil comedogenic?

No, sweet almond oil is considered non-comedogenic, so it does not clog pores or cause acne for most people. Always patch test first.

What makes sweet almond oil good for your skin?

Sweet almond oil contains vitamins A, B, and E to nourish skin and fatty acids to lock in moisture and improve skin elasticity.

Does almond oil make a good natural makeup remover?

It dissolves makeup and impurities without stripping the skin of moisture, leaving it soft and smooth.

Does almond oil hydrate dry skin and hands?

Almond oil absorbs easily to deeply hydrate dry skin without feeling greasy, making it a great moisturizer.

Which essential oils blend well with sweet almond oil?

Some essential oils that complement and blend well with sweet almond oil (as a carrier oil) include the ones below. There are so many options!

  • How to Use Essential Oils Safely: 7 Ways to Enjoy Them Carefully

    How to Use Essential Oils Safely: 7 Ways to Enjoy Them Carefully

    How to Use Essential Oils Safely

    Essential oils have been used for years by people who are sick and tired of resorting to using questionable chemicals and spending money on things they’d rather make themselves. They’re also for people who enjoy fun at-home hobbies and DIY’s.

    Table Of Contents
    1. Their Usefulness vs. Your Uses: Proceed With Caution
    2. Using Essential Oils With Emulsifiers
    3. 7 Safe Ways to Use Essential Oils
    4. Concluding Thoughts
    5. How to Use Essential Oils Safely FAQs

    However, there are widespread misconceptions regarding essential oils as a whole. Some groups say they’ll cure every disease and ailment under the sun, while others write them off altogether, calling them part of a larger marketing scam. Then, of course, there are those who pass them off as merely a short-lived fad.

    Well, most of us know that essential oils shouldn’t be used for everything, especially in regard to personal health. I also think it’s safe to say that if essential oils are merely a fad, it’s not one that’s short-lived. However, I will agree that essential oils and their uses are often presented in a way that is dishonest at best and oftentimes quite scammy. Let’s be honest; there are a lot of people, even companies, that just want to “make a buck”.

    So, now that we’ve very broadly acknowledged some of the issues in the essential oil industry, let’s consider a few positive aspects of the industry: Essential oils can be used safely, are used safely by countless individuals, and are effective at improving their quality of life when used responsibly.

    Their Usefulness vs. Your Uses: Proceed With Caution

    Regardless of your thoughts, science has proven the efficacy of many essential oils through numerous and countless studies. That being said, their proper uses and applications must be treated with carefulness and consideration. Before any kind of treatment, it’s always best to check with your doctor or health care practitioner. It’s also important to choose to use quality essential oils, though deceptive marketing can make it difficult to find them. Just because scientific studies have shown essential oils to be effective for a number of applications does not mean that all of your essential oils should be used for what you deem reasonable.

    Indeed, essential oils can be harmful to one’s health if they’re used inappropriately or without common sense. Remember, like many potent pharmaceuticals and drugs, essential oils are also very potent. After all, they are super-concentrated plant compounds. Therefore, do not approach your use of essential oils lackadaisically. If you’re not a trained professional, follow these 3 simple steps below:

    1. Do Not use essential oils internally.
    2. Do Not use essential oils undiluted on the skin.
    3. Do Not use essential oils while pregnant or nursing without asking a health care professional.

    The above list of guidelines is very short, and much could be added to it, but if you follow the three above steps, you’ll avoid most of the dangers people run into when using essential oils. When it comes to natural products and ingredients for DIYs, my original experience when I was introduced to essential oils is among the most exciting. So, be careful not to fall into either ditch when it comes to the usefulness of essential oils: Don’t be overly skeptical, and don’t believe every “miracle” rumor you read online. 

    Some of you won’t like the below video, but we’re all adults! While I don’t agree with every point he makes, it’s absolutely hilarious. So, take 5 minutes and watch the video; it will be 5 minutes well spent. Better yet, if you haven’t giggled enough today, here’s your chance!

    If you can’t get a few laughs out of that video, you’re way too serious. As suggested in the video, lavender is very helpful, especially for tense people like yourself. But really, the key with essential oils is to always use discernment. Do not recklessly use essential oils.

    Did you know that, in many cases, it can take hundreds or thousands of pounds of plant material to make just one pound of essential oil? Do not recklessly use essential oils only to ask questions later. Always dilute your oils in a carrier oil, never ingest them or take them internally, and always check with a healthcare professional before starting any health or treatment plan. Natural does not equate to healthy.

    Using Essential Oils With Emulsifiers

    Emulsifiers are used to suspend ingredients in mixtures in order to avoid separation. In regards to plant oils, emulsifiers are used to disperse the oils evenly in whatever mixture you’re making. A few basic categories of emulsifiers are salts, fats, and alcohols. When using an emulsifier, it’s crucial to introduce your essential oils to the emulsifier before using it for your application.

    Let’s take a moment to describe how to use each below:

    Fat Emulsifiers:

    These include fats like olive oil, coconut oil, jojoba oil, almond oil, or just about any other kind of carrier oil you can get your hands on. Besides these, you could also use other fatty substances like dairy cream, whole milk, lard, or tallow. Also, skim milk won’t work since it’s devoid of fat. Your oils will mix with any of these fats. Just be sure to mix your essential oils with the emulsifier before using them in your application. These emulsifiers are especially great for massage oil recipes.

    Alcohol Emulsifiers:

    Pure alcohol can be used as an emulsifier as well, especially for refresher sprays. That being said, some people just don’t like the idea of spraying alcohol around their house when they could just use a diffuser instead. Not only that, but some people can be more sensitive than others when exposed to alcohol fumes. To be used as an emulsifier, strong alcohol has to be used. Examples would be vodka, rubbing alcohol, or other items that contain a high alcoholic content. As with fat emulsifiers, be sure to mix your oils with the alcohol before using them for your intended application.

    Salt Emulsifiers:

     As many of you may know, there’s a wide variety of salts to choose from nowadays. Salts are truly excellent emulsifiers. Often used in baths, it’s quite easy to make bath salts with your oils. Common salts used for most recipes include Epsom salts, sea salts, or kosher salts. Besides whichever essential oils you use, other basic ingredients include baking soda and dried herbs (lavender, rosemary, etc.). While adding dried ingredients like lavender makes for a fancy jar of bath salts, just keep in mind that your tub will be a mess once you’re done with your bath! Once you’re done mixing your ingredients, it’s best to let your bath salts sit and absorb for a few hours before using them.

    You should now have a basic understanding of how to mix your oils with any of the above emulsifiers. Keep in mind that oftentimes, emulsifier mixes may only be part of the recipe. Also, there are a few other options besides the three main kinds we listed above. To name a few, you could also use aloe vera gel, cornstarch, or vinegar.

    In our family, we oftentimes mix select essential oils with vinegar (for emulsification) for many of the homemade household cleaners we make. All you do is add water to your vinegar and oil mix. Then, your oils will disperse evenly through your cleaning solution.

    Remember, the main reason to use these methods when using essential oils is to cause them to disperse evenly in whatever mixture you may be using them in, whether that’s a massage oil, cleaning spray, or a bathtub full of water. As we mentioned earlier, essential oils are quite potent and can even cause sensitivity. Emulsification will ensure that your oils are properly mixed and evenly dispersed for all of your applications. So, let’s move on to how to use your oils safely!

    7 Safe Ways to Use Essential Oils

    Well, now that we’ve had a few warnings, a few laughs, and a few reality checks, it’s time to move on to the enjoyable and safe uses of essential oils. In our family, we can personally attest to all of these uses and would happily recommend others to try out these applications. If you spend money on essential oils, it should be for your enjoyment, just like anything else we spend money on to improve our quality of life.

    #1 – Relaxing Baths

    The bathroom is an excellent place to use your oils. If you plan on using essential oils in your bath, we don’t recommend just adding a few drops directly to the water. If you do that, the oils will create a kind of sheen or film on top of your bathwater, exposing your skin to their potency as soon as you climb into the tub! As we mentioned before, make some homemade bath salts to add to your water first!

    What are some good essential oils to use in baths?

    They include eucalyptus, lavender, sandalwood, rose, and frankincense oil, among many others. Avoid oregano and cinnamon oils in the bath since they can be irritating. You can experiment with various scents and bath salt mixes on those days when you just need to soak for a while.

    Feel free to try creating your own homemade essential oil bath powders as well.

    #2 – Inhalations

    You can use this application by adding your oils to hot water or moist compresses, allowing them to steam for inhalation purposes. Experts recommend ten drops of any relaxing essential oil of your choice. I find that a blend of eucalyptus oil and mint is especially helpful for opening nasal passages during sinus infections or colds. Please do not go overboard with this; gently breathe in the steam a little at a time. Most of the time, I’ll only use a couple of drops of EOs for these applications so that the scents aren’t too overbearing.

    #3 – Essential Oil Compresses

    Many people also use essential oils in compresses for other reasons besides just for inhalation purposes. For this method, I like the idea of mixing your oils with a bit of Epsom salt first. Once the oils have absorbed into the salt, go ahead and mix a small spoonful of the salt/oil mixture into a cup of hot water, then soak a cloth or towel in the mixture. You can use either a wrap or a soaked cloth to cover the affected area. If you have muscle aches and pains, this is a great solution to ease the discomfort.

    #4 – Massage

    Over the years, essential oils have become integral in the art of massaging. As we mentioned earlier, don’t apply essential oils directly to the skin; mix them with carrier oils instead. There are endless massage recipes out there, but I find that you only need to use a few drops of each essential oil in your given recipe. I would even go so far as to suggest using half the essential oils the recipe calls for and working your way up from there if you prefer. Skin is sensitive, so use them sparingly for massage applications. Also, why use more of your precious oils than is needed?

    #5 – Facial Steam

    We’ve all done it, haven’t we? Steaming our faces over a hot pot of water? If you’ve never done a facial steam before, you ought to try it. Apart from relaxing your facial muscles, it works like magic on headaches and sinuses. But it’s strongly suggested not to allow the steam to hit your face directly. Instead, allow the steam to pass through a barrier like a warm cloth or towel. Just use a few drops of any oil of your choice for this application. Also, it’s worth mentioning that care needs to be used here since you’re working with hot water.

    #6 – Diffusers

    Another way through which people can safely use essential oils is by using essential oil diffusers.  There are many types of diffusers, which we will discuss at greater length in upcoming posts. But we’ll briefly mention a few of them below.

    Candle Diffusers

    Candle diffusers consist of a mixture of water and essential oils in a small dish situated over a candle placed below.  These are easy to set up, offering light and an alluring fragrance. However, these diffusers may not always put out as much scent as you’d like. But, if you’ve never used a diffuser before, they’re great to use as a beginner. Candle diffusers are especially nice to use during a bath or candlelit dinner.

    Cool Air Nebulizing Diffusers

    These units make use of compressed air to make vapor from the essential oils.  There is also a nebulizing glass bulb that serves as a condenser, which disperses essential oil particles into the air.  These diffusers are often used to provide therapeutic benefits in people with a wide range of problems, including respiratory problems, bouts of anxiety, lack of focus, and so on. They can also come with timers to regulate the amount of oil released. These kinds of diffusers are rather easy to use and are usually very easy to clean.

    Electric Heat Diffusers

    Electric heat diffusers, on the other hand, use an electric heating coil to diffuse essential oil into the air. These are plug-and-play devices and are, therefore, easy to use. Since the surface exposed to the essential oils is usually flat, these kinds of diffusers are very easy to clean. Unlike the cool air nebulizing diffusers, these are capable of diffusing thicker essential oils like sandalwood.

    Ultrasonic Diffusers

    The popularity of this type of diffuser has increased much over the past few years. Ultrasonic oil diffusers are very easy to use and come in a variety of shapes and sizes. Better yet, some of them even light up! These diffusers work by using ultrasonic waves that are effective at dispersing a mix of water vapor and essential oils into the room, and they’re quite effective at doing so. Since there are so many brands and options available, it’s likely that your diffuser may not stand up to long and repeated uses if you go for the cheapest option you can find. So, depending on the quality, some of these diffusers may be prone to premature failure. Just be sure to follow the instructions properly to avoid premature failure.

    #7 – DIY Recipe Ideas (Do it Yourself)

    Sometimes, it’s far more enjoyable and productive to spend time making your own products and solutions suited to your own lifestyle. That being said, there are plenty of things I wouldn’t feel like spending the time doing. I’m not interested in tinkering with my car if it has mechanical issues, I’m not interested in figuring out how to put a new roof on my house, and I’m not interested in learning how to fix every plumbing issue I might have this year.

    So, when we decide to delve into the world of DIYs, we’re far more apt to choose to do those things that we have some talent and interest in. I enjoy making my own cleaning and beauty products. I also love cooking and making crafts with my children. So, if you are interested in using your essential oils for DIYs, there are plenty of options to perfect your DIY tastes.

    Natural Cleaning Sprays

    As briefly mentioned earlier, homemade natural cleaning sprays and solutions with essential oils are very simple to make. Not only are they easy to make, but they’re great alternatives to bleach, ammonia, and other harsh ingredients. Better yet, you actually know exactly what ingredients you’re spraying and wiping all around your house on a frequent basis. You don’t have to wonder which chemicals were used to create those synthetic-smelling scents ever again. Not only that, but you won’t have to wonder about the potential effect of exposing yourself to bleach fumes (or other chemical fumes) each and every time you decide to clean the bathroom or kitchen.

    I make most of my cleaning sprays with three simple ingredients: water, vinegar, and essential oils. Just a reminder, be sure to mix the oils and vinegar before adding water.

    Natural Air Fresheners

    Ever use Febreeze or some other kind of air freshener? How about those fancy plugin air fresheners that mesmerized me as a child? While your home may smell somewhat inviting with those air fresheners, they’re really not a far cry from sources of unnecessary household pollution. Who knows what chemicals are in the fumes synthetic air fresheners emit? On the other hand, we’ve got all-natural essential oils that are plant-derived. Any scent, any mood, any season; the options for freshening up the air in your home are endless. Again, natural air fresheners consist of just a handful of ingredients in most cases, including alcohol, water, and essential oils.

    DIY Body Wash

    There’s nothing better than cleansing your skin with a body wash that you made with your own ingredients, ones that you can actually pronounce. Plus, it’s the idea of never needing to buy body wash again that intrigues a lot of people to start making their own. If we’re not careful to limit our body’s exposure to chemicals whenever we can, especially when it’s easy to do so, it’s inevitable that our bodies will be exposed to a limitless amount of chemicals in almost every daily task we take part in. Exposure to chemicals not only sounds bad, it is bad. So, make your own body wash. It only takes a few minutes and is cheaper in the long run. Common ingredients include liquid Castile soap, coconut oil (or another oil), honey (raw Manuka honey is best), and essential oils.

    Homemade Soap Bars

    There are some really creative homemade soap recipes and resources out there that not only smell amazing but look amazing, too. Check out these two here at Enticingly Simple:

    While it’s true that fancy soaps can be purchased online or in stores, why not make your own? After all, if your favorite expensive organic soap is missing a scent you like or an ingredient you desire, you could just make your own perfectly balanced soap. In any case, while making homemade soap is a little bit more involved, it’s still very easy as long as you can follow instructions. Plus, it’s just plain fun. Essential oils make the varieties of scented hard soaps virtually endless, not to mention the many other ingredient tweaks available when making soap.

    If you decide to make your own soap completely from scratch (without premade soap base), try starting with a basic homemade soap-from-scratch recipe (cold or hot process) that you can tweak once you get the overall process down.

    Homemade Carpet Deodorizer

    Did you know that each home has its own natural odor footprint? What do your friends and family think about the first impression scent when they first step into the door of your home? It’s true that we get used to the smells around us very quickly, so your house may not be as odorless as you might think. Plus, your house doesn’t necessarily need to be dirty for it to smell bad. You might have a lingering smell from burning something on the stove, or your home may just be prone to smelling more stale and musty than other homes. Another major culprit that may throw off the odor situation in your home is the age and cleanliness of your carpets.

    Even for people who vacuum regularly, carpets can still very easily collect and give off odors that are less than pleasant. Please don’t waste your money on synthetically scented carpet deodorizers! Just make your own instead; it’s insanely easy. As with most homemade products,  DIY carpet deodorizers only include 2-3 main ingredients: they include baking soda, essential oils, and dried herbs (optional).

    Concluding Thoughts

    It’s a fact that essential oils have many wonderful benefits, but always make sure to use them safely. Don’t have the “jump in first, ask questions later” mentality. With a bit of common sense and basic precautions, you can (and will) improve your quality of life using essential oils. Never apply them directly to your skin, never ingest them, and never try to treat a chronic condition with them without consulting a Doctor! If you’re pregnant or nursing, treat essential oils just like anything else that may be questionable during pregnancy. Oils aren’t scary, they aren’t merely a passing fad, and they’re definitely not inherently dangerous when used appropriately.

    You no longer need to rely on chemicals for your daily tasks, not when it’s so easy to do otherwise. Whether you desire to make homemade dish soap, body wash, or carpet deodorizer, switching over to natural and homemade products isn’t difficult; it’s actually rather simple; it’s just a choice you’ve got to make.

    Our list of safe ways to use essential oils is by no means exhaustive. There are so many more uses than the ones we’ve mentioned. So, if you haven’t tried the applications we mentioned above, go ahead and try one each week until you’ve mastered them all. By using your essential oils in each application we mentioned, you will successfully cut out numerous chemical-heavy household products you already use, which means that your household will be less chemical-dependent, and that’s always a good thing.

    How to Use Essential Oils Safely FAQs

    Should essential oils be diluted before applying to the skin?

    Yes, essential oils should always be diluted with a carrier oil like coconut, jojoba, or almond oil before applying to the skin. A safe dilution is 1% in most cases.

    What’s the best way to dilute essential oils for skin use?

    Add 8-12 drops of essential oil per 1 ounce of carrier oil. That works well for most individuals. For extra sensitive skin, always start with less than you think you’d need and always patch test.

    Why is diluting essential oils important?

    Undiluted oils can cause skin irritation, rashes, burns, or sensitivity. Diluting makes them safe and comfortable for skin contact.

    How can you use essential oils safely with a diffuser?

    Diffuse for 1-hour intervals with 4-5 drops of oil. Keep diffusers in well-ventilated rooms away from pets and children.

    Is it safe to ingest essential oils?

    No, ingesting essential oils is risky and can be toxic.

    Can you use essential oils safely during pregnancy?

    Use caution when working with essential oils during pregnancy. Never ingest any essential oil or apply them topically without first consulting a medical professional. Always consult your midwife or doctor before using essential oils during pregnancy.

    How can you prevent skin sensitivity to essential oils?

    Do a patch test on a small area of skin first. Test for a minimum of 24 hours or even longer to be extra cautious.

    What’s the best way to store essential oils to maintain potency?

    Store in dark glass bottles, away from light and heat. Refrigeration can help extend shelf life.

    How long do essential oils last before expiring?

    Most oils expire after 1-2 years. Some oils may expire sooner than others, depending on their overall quality and other factors.

  • Spikenard Essential Oil: What You Need to Know

    Spikenard Essential Oil: What You Need to Know

    Spikenard Essential Oil: What You Need to Know

    Flowers are beautiful little treasures, aren’t they? Today, we’ll be taking a look at a wonderfully scented essential oil derived from Spikenard.

    Table Of Contents
    1. Spikenard Studies and Ongoing Research
    2. How Spikenard and Other Essential Oils Should Be Used Responsibly
    3. 7 Real Uses of Spikenard Essential Oil:
    4. Final Thoughts
    5. Spikenard Essential Oil FAQs

    Spikenard (aka nard or jatamansi) essential oil is derived from processing the plant’s rhizomes. I know many of you probably don’t know what a rhizome is, but it’s basically an underground portion of the plant that produces new stem growths (similar to orchid rhizomes).

    The essential oil derived from the rhizome of this valerian plant species is amber in color and quite potent. In history, spikenard has been mentioned and medicinally used in many cultures. The flower grows primarily in higher elevations, particularly in the Himalayan regions of China and India.

    The perfumery uses of this oil are well documented in history. It’s well established that this beautifully scented oil was also used by the Romans as well as the ancient Egyptians for just that purpose. Furthermore, there are very notable mentions of spikenard in Biblical documents, included in both the Old and New Testaments. (Source).

    When it comes to present-day medicinal uses, the honest truth is that research is still in very early stages. As we examine some of the available research and potential uses, remember that, as with many essential oils, their uses aren’t quite as black and white as some distributors and marketers would have us think.

    That’s why we always try to link relevant studies for each essential oil we write about so that you can read them yourself.

    Essential Oils Studies
    Don’t immediately believe all the hype. There are reputable scientific studies regarding essential oils. Read them.

    I only mention this because it seems like almost every essential oil is perceived as a kind of “Holy Grail” that cures all diseases. Or, at least, that’s what you’d think if you did a quick Google search of any of them online.

    Whether you read our essential oil information here at Enticingly Simple or elsewhere, remain critical, read the studies, and draw your own conclusions. That’s a post for another day; moving on.

    Spikenard Studies and Ongoing Research

    I briefly mentioned a bit ago that Spikenard has been studied to some degree. That being said, research is still accumulating. So, while all the findings related to studies aren’t comprehensive for spikenard just yet, let’s consider some of the research that has been performed.

    • Sedative Activity: Spikenard has been traditionally used as a sedative and anti-stressing agent. Animal trials show that the compounds contained in the oil increased calming neurotransmitter substances in mice. Other studies further show that those mice that were given nard (short for spikenard) had decreased movement and increased rest time as well. (Source)
    • Hair Growth: One study published in 2011 was the first to separate specific compounds found in spikenard for the purpose of testing their efficacy in relation to hair growth. Compound 1 was nardal colorless oil, compound 2 was Jatamansic acid colorless crystals, and compound 3 was nardin colorless crystals. Each of these substances had varying qualities and were examined for their effectiveness. The results of the study showed that the individual compounds did promote hair growth. That being said, the crude extract (not fractionated) was most effective for hair growth (reduced hair regrowth time by 30%). Therefore, spikenard essential oil is beneficial for hair growth. (Source)
    • Antifungal Activity: Spikenard essential oil shows promising results against varying kinds of fungi. (Source)
    • Anti-Inflammatory Activity: N. Jatamansi oil has demonstrated anti-inflammatory effects in mice when they were given oral doses of the water extracted from its root. (Source)
    • Bactericidal Activity: In a study of 96 various essential oils, spikenard was shown to be one of the most active oils against C. jejuni, a bacteria commonly found in animal feces. (Source)
    • Miscellaneous/Developing Research: Further research suggests many other potential benefits from Spikenard. To list a few: liver protective properties, pancreas treatment, protective cardiovascular effects, neuroprotection, and more. The plant substances also do not demonstrate toxicity. (Source)

    Now, the list above is just a taste of the research conducted with Spikenard. So, there’s definitely a wealth of evidence showing the benefits of spikenard in general.

    For those of you who are more analytical, you may find many of the above sources a very interesting read. Some of us actually do enjoy reading scientific studies and other publications, even if it may take us longer to understand them!

    In any case, developing research shows that spikenard and its underlying compounds are indeed effective in animal trials for potentially treating a wide range of conditions. Research related to spikenard does look promising.

    How Spikenard and Other Essential Oils Should Be Used Responsibly

    In the last section, we talked about some of the research relating to spikenard. However, due to what I would call deceptive hype about essential oils in marketing and on the internet, I think it’s necessary to point out a few things.

    1. Just because scientific research on any plant compound is promising does not mean individuals should try to mimic those results privately with essential oils.
    2. If plant-derived compounds are used in the medical community internally or externally, that does not mean that individuals should self-diagnose or treat any condition through the internal or external use of essential oils.
    3. Even though essential oils are natural compounds, that does not mean that severe and life-threatening effects can’t happen with improper use. Indeed, essential oils are concentrated plant compounds, so treat them as such.

    So, what do I mean by all of that? Well, what I mean is that we briefly presented research about spikenard a bit ago because our ultimate goal is to inform and teach you about the potential benefits of this plant. It’s interesting and rewarding to read up on such things, especially when potential benefits have to do with natural beauty.

    Whenever we talk about current studies surrounding various plants from which essential oils are derived, it’s because we want to inform you of the exciting happenings in the scientific community as they relate to natural and plant-based compounds. It’s an opportunity for us to inform you, the reader.

    Therefore…

    Spikenard essential oil will not cure heart disease, cancer, diabetes, the plague, and it won’t kill every single kind of bacterial substance in your home.

    Claims like the ones above are exactly what we’re not implying. However, you will read countless claims about many essential oils as you browse the internet. Please don’t listen to the hype; your health and well-being depend upon it. But I’ve digressed again.

    7 Real Uses of Spikenard Essential Oil:

    • Skin Balm. Due to the gentle nature of this oil, it can be used to add an excellent fragrance to homemade skin balms and lotions. When blended with a carrier oil, it mixes well with other spicy or warm-scented essential oils. It also works well with citrus essential oils.
    • Relaxation and Massage. For ultimate relaxation, include spikenard in your next homemade massage blend. The earthy scent is sure to relieve tension and stress. To use this, add about 15 drops of the essential oil to one ounce of any carrier oil of your choice.
    • Deodorizer. As with many essential oils, you can give your personal homemade deodorant the unique scent of spikenard.
    • Home Cleaner and Refresher. In a spray bottle, mix vinegar, 10-15 drops of spikenard essential oil, and 5 drops of any citrus essential oil of your choice. Use to naturally clean and deodorize hard surfaces.
    • Bath Soak. Add spikenard to your bath water for a rejuvenating and relaxing experience. Add 5-10 drops to your next bath.
    • Homemade Soap Scent: If you aren’t sure how to make homemade bar soap, it’s really not difficult. Add spikenard to the recipe for your next batch of earthy-blend scented soap bars.
    • Vaporization. This should be done using a quality essential oil diffuser.

    Final Thoughts

    It’s is no doubt that spikenard essential oil, like many essential oils, could easily be considered a multi-purpose essential oil. Actually, I would consider any oil that’s known to be safe and pleasantly scented to be a multi-purpose oil. Of course, certain oils do perform better for some applications than others.

    Isn’t it exciting that we can experience one of the same scents that cultures have used for thousands of years? That’s one of the reasons why I love essential oils and natural living in general. There is so much to be experienced in this world that other families, cultures, and people groups have already benefited from.

    Unplug yourself from the world for a bit and breathe in a scent that countless individuals like yourself have experienced for thousands of years. Go take a relaxing bath or read a good book next to your diffuser. Whatever you do to find relaxation, introduce the calming scent of spikenard if you haven’t done so before.

    Spikenard Essential Oil FAQs

    Using Spikenard Essential Oil

    What does spikenard oil smell like?

    It has an earthy, woody aroma that is strong and distinct. The scent is often described as musty or mossy. It could be a great addition to your essential oil blends or homemade DIY soap creations.

    What essential oils blend well with spikenard?

    Spikenard combines nicely with floral or citrus oils like lavender, bergamot, geranium, and clary sage. Woodsy oils like cedarwood and sandalwood also complement it.

    What are some ways to use spikenard oil aromatically?

    Add it to an essential oil diffuser, to bath salts, or to DIY bath bombs. You can also add it to scent sachets or natural potpourri.

    How can you incorporate spikenard into skincare?

    Combine with a carrier oil or unscented lotion and apply to the skin. There are endless possibilities for skincare. Definitely try adding it to some of your homemade DIY creations.

    What are some fun applications for this earthy oil?

    Add to homemade soaps, candles, or incense sticks. Use when making natural perfumes as well.

    What household uses work well for spikenard?

    Freshen potpourri, add to laundry detergent or put a few drops on lightbulbs for scent when turned on.

    How does spikenard oil promote relaxation?

    When used in aromatherapy, the scent has a relaxing and calming effect. It’s one of many oils that can help to calm the mind and relax the body.

    Can you use spikenard oil on your hair?

    Yes, add 2-3 drops to shampoo or conditioner to help strengthen hair and soothe an irritated scalp.

    Is spikenard oil safe for pets?

    No, spikenard should be kept away from cats and dogs. It can be toxic if ingested by animals.

  • What Should We Eat For Dinner? – How to Never Get Asked Again

    What Should We Eat For Dinner? – How to Never Get Asked Again

    What Should We Eat For Dinner? – How to Never Ask (or Get Asked) the Question Again

    If there’s one question that becomes dreadful and stressful to answer time after time, it’s “What should we eat for dinner?”. This is especially true when there is no proper meal-planning strategy in place.

    Table Of Contents
    1. What's on the Menu: Tips For Weighing Out Menu Options
    2. The Benefits of Planned Meals and Meal Planning
    3. Wrap-Up
    4. Meal Planning FAQs

    The lack of meal planning means that there’s no assurance you’ll have the ingredients in your house to prepare your daily meals. Worse yet, lack of planning leaves you to use your imagination on the fly when you’ve just arrived home from work or when you have limited time to prepare your meals. After all, some meals do indeed take longer than 45 minutes to prepare.

    So, as in many areas of life, sometimes the best solution is prevention. But how can one prevent this question from ever rearing its little head?  The answer lies in meal planning.

    You can plan meals on a weekly basis for your more immediate meal needs or on a monthly basis for those who are more ambitious. Whatever duration you choose, a meal plan ensures that you’ll have premade organized meals so that you don’t have to whip something up without the necessary preparation.

    Whether we’re talking breakfast, lunch, or dinner, meal planning will simplify a busy and complicated life: No More Guesswork.

    • Easier grocery shopping: When preparing a meal plan, you will know all the ingredients you’ll need for the duration ahead of time, enabling you to shop without over-buying or under-buying.
    • Reduces stress: You may also buy all the ingredients at once, prepare your meals, and then freeze them for use as the needs arise. Whatever works for you, the bottom line is to have an idea of the meals you will make each day to reduce the stress that comes with wondering what is for dinner.
    • Saves time: Creating a meal calendar only takes a matter of minutes and is well worth the time. It will actually save time in the long run.

    Many helpful resources related to meal planning can be found online. Also, as you already know, the internet allows you to find whatever creative and tasty meals you and your family could ever want. Nowadays, it’s easy to find any number of meal-planning apps and strategies that make meal preparation a piece of cake.

    You should also consider dropping in your and your family’s most beloved traditional recipes over the stretch of your planning duration. That way, you won’t exhaust all your favorite meals in just one week’s time.

    What’s on the Menu: Tips For Weighing Out Menu Options

    If you’re not much of a planner, that’s fine, and this really isn’t too difficult. Actually, if you’re used to deciding what meals you’ll prepare just one day in advance or less, meal planning will be an absolute breeze since you’re already accustomed to quickly deciding meal choices. You’ll just need to map out your meal choices over the coming days or weeks all at once.

    If you’re having trouble or can’t come up with enough ideas for your meals, check out the tips below.

    Meal Planning Tips:

    • Using seasonal ingredients. Some of the ingredients making up the meals should be seasonal. Incorporate these items into the plan for year-round diversity. This will also enable you to purchase locally-grown produce while supporting your local farmers.
    • Take advantage of sales. Purchase what is on sale at the grocery store or supermarket. This can help trim excess expenses. Since you’re planning your meals, you can also strategize when you buy specific ingredients following regular and periodic supermarket sales.
    • Check out your pantry. What you have in the pantry can give you many great starter ideas for your meal planning calendar. You’re probably already doing this if you haven’t been planning your meals, so this isn’t at all difficult. Go ahead and get 5-10 meals on your list just by looking at what you’ve already got in the kitchen (beans, rice, pasta, tomato sauce, etc.)
    • Have a picture of the plate when planning. Picturing the plate can help you to know which ingredients to include. We all have our own ideas of what a healthy diet should include.
      • Should half of the plate be fruits and vegetables, one-quarter lean protein, and one-quarter whole grains?
      • Do you want to cut the grains and feature mostly protein?
      • Do you opt for only whole food plant-based foods during the week? This is what we do in our family to ensure we’re getting an optimally balanced diet.
      • Whatever the case, you can customize your meal plan to any nutritional plan you have for you and your family.

    Also, think of how handy this would be if you or your husband needed to lose some weight. When you’ve got a plan, there’s no chance of the occasional unhealthy meal in the middle of the week. Prepare your plan, then stick to it.

    It may take some time and practice to get used to meal planning. However, this habit will become habitual over time until it becomes second nature. You’ll be able to build up a massive repertoire of planned meals and recipes that can be reused over and over again.

    Think about it: Once you’ve got 25-52 weeks’ worth of meals planned, you can move your meals year after year for additional variation. When trying brand new recipes or selections, swap them out for something on the calendar.

    That means that you’ll, in essence, have an entirely functional meal calendar that will never need to be changed again. You’d have a customizable family meal menu; how cool is that? In addition, if you’re not dieting or trying to lose weight, you can add some flexibility to your meal plan.

    For example, you could leave your Fridays unplanned to cook up something new and exciting with your kids for a family fun night. Or, if you don’t want to use a calendar, you could just purchase enough groceries for 14 meals (2 weeks of dinners), then eat your premade options on whichever days you choose.

    Life happens, and any of the above strategies will make meal planning and prep incredibly more manageable, especially during busy weeks.

    The Benefits of Planned Meals and Meal Planning

    1. Always have the groceries that you require. This reduces the need to keep rushing to the grocery store to buy what you do not have at the worst possible times.
    2. Leads to less eating out. With a planned meal, you are not likely to eat out because you’ve already “arranged” dinner. Without a plan, there’s a tendency to eat out more often in order to avoid the hassle of thinking about what to eat, buying groceries on the fly, or cooking.
    3. Reduces unnecessary waste of groceries. With a plan, you will buy the groceries that you need and not those that will end up being wasted. Goodbye, impulse grocery shopping!
    4. Being prepared on busy days. Planning and cooking a meal on a busy day can be challenging even for the strong-willed. Having a preplanned meal makes it easier to put dinner together, even on a busy day.
    5. Eating fewer prepackaged meals. By having a well-thought-out meal plan, there isn’t a tendency to get pre-packaged meals. As most of us know, pre-packaged meals are pumped full of preservatives and other food additives.
    6. Saves money. Intentionally purchasing groceries with purpose, eating home-cooked meals, and limiting trips to the grocery store are three huge improvements when it comes to saving money. Eating out costs more, and impulse shopping will make grocery store owners very wealthy. It should also be mentioned that you’ll waste a lot of fuel on all those unnecessary visits to the store.
    7. Saves time. With a meal plan, you only need to travel as far as your refrigerator to find the ingredients for the food you wish to prepare. Better yet, you may even have prepared entire frozen meals. The story is different when there is no plan because you may end up spending a lot of time trying to figure out what to cook or going to the grocery store to buy the required ingredients.
    8. Promotes healthy eating. With a meal plan, you strategize new and healthy meal ideas. Furthermore, you can plan when you’ll have junk food rather than whenever you feel like having junk food. Are you on a diet? You can plan your meals for weeks or months at a time, successfully meeting all your nutritional needs without splurging.
    9. Better food and more options for your family. Unlike the meals that you thought up in the past, everyone in the family can contribute to your meal plan. All of your family members, including your children, can take part in the planning process. Whoever said meal planning couldn’t be fun? Think of the endless exciting ideas you all may have on your weekly or monthly meal planning night!
    10. Easy to deal with allergy needs. It can be mind-boggling to cook for a family with special food needs, especially with a lack of planning. For example, those with allergic reactions to soy or wheat probably won’t be able to safely eat over half of what could be found in the grocery store. Therefore, having a meal plan keeps you from needing to deal with these difficult needs on the fly. Better yet, it will allow you to plan for more variety for the loved ones who may have these needs, making their dinner experience a lot more enjoyable.
    11. Substantially decreases stress. It can be stressful after a long day to stare into the refrigerator abyss and wonder what to make for dinner. Plus, isn’t it stressful knowing that you’ll have to make a trip to the grocery store after a day of hard work instead of spending that valuable time with your family? How about feeling bad after you eat those nasty pre-made meals you bought from the grocery store because you didn’t feel like cooking? Having a meal plan definitely reduces stress.
    12. You (or your loved ones) will never ask yourselves, “What’s for Dinner?” ever again! If someone wants to know what’s for dinner, they can be ever so politely “referred” to your calendar or meal list. That’s right, you can indeed take the thinking out of meal prep.

    It’s time to breathe a sigh of relief instead of feeling burdened when you think about dinner. What a great way to spend more time with your loved ones, too.

    Wrap-Up

    Meal preparation is the best solution to avoid what many think is an unavoidable question. 

    • No more unplanned trips to the grocery store, no more random splurges
    • No more nasty pre-packaged preservative-filled foods
    • No more stressful dinner preparation on busy days, and no more money down the drain from impulse buying at the grocery store.

    Get organized, get a plan, and never get asked what’s for dinner again.

    Meal Planning FAQs

    How can meal planning help avoid the “what’s for dinner?” question?

    Planning out a week or month’s worth of meals in advance takes the guesswork out of what to make each night. This leads to easier grocery shopping and more predictable habits overall. You can rely on your meal plan, and that means less pressure on you each week to decide on meal options.

    What are some good ways to organize meal plans?

    Use a whiteboard calendar, planner, or app to map out recipes for each day/week. Collaborate with your family on this, too, it can actually be quite enjoyable to plan everything out,

    How can you find new recipes to include in meal plans?

    Cookbooks, food blogs, Pinterest, and social media are great sources of inspiration. We have a number of recipes here at Enticingly Simple.

    What are tips for grocery shopping with a meal plan?

    Shop for all ingredients for the week in one trip using your meal plan as a master grocery list. Since we have a large family, we also like to purchase in bulk whenever we can. That includes things like bulk beans, rice, oats, pasta, etc.

    How can you save time cooking planned meals?

    Make a point of doing prep work like chopping veggies on less busy days to spread out the workload across your meal planning schedule. Also, if you have an especially busy schedule, pack in your meal calendar with as many easy-to-prepare meals as possible. That would include things like casseroles, stews, or similar options.

    What are good make-ahead meal options for busy nights?

    Casseroles, soups, chili, and freezer-friendly options like meatballs work well.

    How can you get kids involved in meal planning?

    Have them help select recipes, do age-appropriate cooking tasks, and set the table. Additionally, have them pick 1-2 new recipes every time you prepare a new meal plan. That will instill the healthy habit of trying new foods and meals, whereas children can often get into the rut of being too picky when there are limited meal options.

    What if your family doesn’t like something you planned?

    Keep back-up convenience foods like frozen pizza or stews on hand for picky eaters. Also, it may be possible that you need to work on your cooking skills a bit. It’s not always the case that kids are picky; it’s also possible they just prefer different seasonings or methods of cooking vs. what you’re currently doing. Don’t put it all on them; change your cooking style once in a while.

    How can you avoid food waste with meal planning?

    Only buy perishables for 1-2 weeks out. Adjust plans based on what needs to be used up, like produce, meats, etc.

    What are tips for transitioning to meal planning if you’ve never done it before?

    Start small with a few go-to recipes. Use apps or templates to organize gradually.

  • Taking Baby to the Beach? Not Without a Baby Beach Tent

    Taking Baby to the Beach? Not Without a Baby Beach Tent

    Taking the Baby to the Beach? Not Without a Baby Beach Tent

    Having a baby doesn’t negate soaking up the sun at the beach. That’s right; you can indeed have fun on the beach with your little ones, too. Definitely count on taking your little bundle (or bundles) of joy with you to the beach.

    Table Of Contents
    1. Baby Beach Tents – A Necessary Beach Item
    2. Features of the Best Baby Tents
    3. Wrap-Up
    4. Baby Beach Tent FAQs

    You may be thinking that most of your time will be spent looking after the baby rather than getting some much-needed relaxation. While that’s mostly true, a baby beach tent will be an incredible investment to ensure they’re comfortable and protected from overexposure to sunlight, which is one less concern for you while at the beach.

    Baby Beach Tents – A Necessary Beach Item

    Don’t get me wrong, you’ll definitely need to keep your eyes pinned on all of your little ones while at the beach, no doubt about it. Not only will you need to watch your children well, but you’ll also need to pack up things like diapers, wipes, breastmilk, bottles, and more. Those of you with babies will certainly need to pack more items in preparation for your family’s day at the beach.

    One necessary item that you’ll find quintessential on all of your beach trips with little ones is a baby beach tent.

    • Going to the beach means exposure to the sun, and there is nothing as bad as having your baby’s skin sunburned after even a short amount of time on the beach.
    • Baby skin that is so delicate shouldn’t be exposed to excessive sunlight.
    • For a baby, sunscreen may not be enough to provide protection, and that is why a baby beach tent comes in handy.

    The fewer chemicals (like those in sunscreen) you put on your baby, the better. There are always alternatives, including natural ones. But it doesn’t get much more effective than simply limiting your little one’s exposure to the sun. A baby who is less than six months old should be kept out of the sun for any extended period of time.

    Older babies should not be kept in the sun during its peak times between 11 in the morning and 3 in the afternoon. In these cases, beach tents made for babies are perfect solutions for protecting your children from the sun’s harmful rays during your fun days at the beach.

    Features of the Best Baby Tents

    When choosing a baby tent for the beach, you should ensure it can serve the intended purpose properly, which is limiting sun exposure. Therefore, you should base your purchase on how well it does that primarily.

    Additionally, there are other factors to consider. For instance, if your child is very young and can only sleep in an enclosed space, then you should get an enclosed tent. A tent with no bottom would be more appropriate for older children who may want to play with sand.

    Some common features should be present on a quality baby beach tent. Some of the features to look out for include:

    Ability to protect your baby from the sun.

    The baby beach tent should protect your baby from the scorching sun by providing shade. If a baby is exposed to the sun for long periods, it can result in sunburn, which can be painful. Therefore,  beach tents made for babies will prove useful for providing the required shade.

    You should make sure that all sides of the tent are covered so that the baby can be protected no matter which side the sun is on.

    Protection from harmful sun rays.

    Other than providing shade, the baby beach tent should protect the baby from ultraviolet rays. These rays can penetrate fabrics, which means that the tent should be specially made in such a way that it can block them. This is done using a special coating or functional weaving patterns made to block UV rays.

    The baby tent should have a floor. 

    Especially important for infants, the floor is important for ensuring that a young baby does not have access to ingest sand or any other potentially hazardous materials. This means you should choose a baby tent with a floor (although it may not be thick).

    However, if you already have a baby tent without a floor, you can lay a blanket on the sand to prevent your baby from accessing the sand. But for infants, tents with floors are best.

    Durable.

    A baby beach tent should be made using durable materials so that it can withstand a lot of use. Basically, you want something rugged that can withstand rough use. The materials should be strong enough to hold it in place, provide protection from the sun’s UV rays, provide protection from moderately windy conditions, and should be waterproof.

    Ventilation.

    In as much as your tent should provide protection from the sun, it should also have enough ventilation so that the baby does not suffocate. It should have adequate openings that can allow fresh air in while also providing the desired protection.

    Some tents use breathable mesh panels to keep the baby cool and can be opened opposite of direct sunlight. Enclosed spaces can heat up quickly in hot conditions, so this is extremely important. In any case, the tent isn’t your baby’s babysitter, and you should always know how they are.

    Portable and lightweight.

    The baby beach tent should be light so that carrying it does not prove to be burdensome, especially since you may also be carrying your baby. You don’t want something so cumbersome that you’re worn out before you even get to your beach spot unless you’re trying to get all that extra exercise.

    Although most tents are lightweight, some are heavy. So, when shopping and comparing the multitude of baby tents available, keep this in mind.

    Easy to set up and to take down.

    The tent should be easy to assemble and take down. You do not want to spend your precious time at the beach going through the manual trying to figure out how to assemble the tent. Some tents can be set up and taken down in a matter of seconds. When choosing, you should opt for such tents. If you’re the type that gets nervous when instructions are involved, rest assured.

    After you set up and take down your tent a few times, you’ll be an expert!

    Stable.

    The baby beach tent should easily withstand a breeze on the beach. It should also remain standing even if the baby tries to pull it down. This means that you should get a tent that can go deep into the sand to provide the required support.

    Some of the options available include those that have pegs that can be pinned down or rods that can be thrust into the ground to provide stability.

    Wrap-Up

    Just because babies are small doesn’t mean that they don’t have to deal with the same environment you do when at the beach. They need protection from the heat and sunlight, too, even more so.

    Therefore, when preparing for family fun at the beach, using a beach tent is one way to make their day enjoyable as well. While the option of applying sunscreen to your baby may be available, it may not be the best option for a long day at the beach when it’s possible to limit their exposure to the sun, especially when babies experience skin sensitivity to sunscreen, like ours do.

    It’s good to expose your little ones to the sun periodically for vitamin D, but don’t resort to chemicals at other times when you can just remove them from the sunlight instead.

    When buying a baby beach tent, there are some features you should be on the lookout for; let’s recap.

    • The tent’s ability to provide the desired protection from the sun and harmful UV rays.
    • Don’t purchase a heavy tent or one that’s difficult to store when not in use. All you need is a tent, not a bunker, so consider convenience, safety, and utility above other features.
    • As for ease of use, a good baby beach tent should be easy to assemble and take down too.
    • Sturdiness should be such that it’s stable and will not fall when in moderately windy conditions or when your baby tries to pull it down (you know they will).
    • Ventilation is also necessary. The best tents are the ones that are well-ventilated.

    Quick Remembers:

    1. If you have older children, you may want to consider purchasing a tent without a floor so they can still enjoy the sand without exposure to the sun for hours on end.
    2. Go for a tent with a floor for infants so that they don’t put anything in their mouths you wouldn’t be comfortable with.

    The next time you go to the beach, think of how you can make it fun and enjoyable for the little ones, too. They may not be able to express their thankfulness in words quite yet, but they’ll appreciate the extra shade during those hot beach days.

    Baby Beach Tent FAQs

    Why are baby beach tents useful?

    They provide shade, shelter, and UV protection for babies’ delicate skin. The importance of keeping them from getting sunburned cannot be stressed enough, so a baby beach tent is an easy way to reduce their exposure to the sun.

    What safety features should you look for?

    UPF 50+ sun protection, anchored stakes, and UV protective fabric. Sturdiness, ventilation, and sun protection are top considerations.

    How much space do they provide?

    Most fit a single baby and a baby and caregiver for larger sizes. Sizes will vary, so consider your overall space needs before purchasing. For example, you may desire a larger size if you want the tent to accommodate multiple children.

    Are they easy to set up?

    Yes, they pop up instantly like regular tents and fold into a compact carrying case.

    Where is the best placement on the beach?

    Seek partial shade and avoid direct sunlight by placing under trees or near dunes when possible. Ventilation is key, too, to ensure they’re comfortable and out of the sunlight.

    Can you breastfeed in a baby beach tent?

    Yes, the privacy and shade make beach tents perfect for nursing.

    What age is appropriate to use them?

    They are suitable for babies from newborn up to toddler age. This is also a matter of preference. Whatever the age, your supervision and care are the most important factors while they’re at the beach. A tent isn’t a babysitter, so check on them regularly, play with them, and care for them on their big beach day.

    Should you put sunscreen on your baby if using a tent?

    Generally, it’s recommended to apply sunscreen whenever they’re in the sunlight. Some parents may forego that if they’re limiting exposure and are very careful in doing so. We think that if we don’t expose our children to sunlight or very little sunlight (no more than 10-15 minutes at a time), we’ll forego the sunscreen.

    Whatever you decide, ensure their skin is protected either by limiting exposure or using sunscreen.

    Are beach tents better than umbrellas?

    Tents provide more enclosed, protective space with airflow. So yes, they’re preferable to umbrella alternatives.

    What are baby beach tents made out of?

    Breathable polyester or nylon with UV coatings, though this can vary depending on the brand and overall style.

  • Natural Homemade Pina Colada Recipes to Die For

    Natural Homemade Pina Colada Recipes to Die For

    Natural Homemade Pina Colada Recipes to Die For

    If you love smoothies or homemade juices, then I’m certain you’ve heard of the renowned Pina Colada. This is a Puerto Rican drink made of pineapple and rum mixed with sweet coconut delight. The blend of these three ingredients creates a flavorful experience for the taste buds.

    Table Of Contents
    1. History of the Pina Colada
    2. 3 Simple Recipes for Making Natural Pina Colada's
    3. Ideas and Tips
    4. Final Thoughts
    5. Pina Colada FAQs

    If you need to get away and experience life in the tropics, head into your kitchen. While you may not be able to take a vacation quite yet, flavorful tastes of pineapple, coconut, and rum will get you halfway there. After all, the Pina Colada is indeed the drink of the tropics.

    History of the Pina Colada

    While the Pina Colada has been around for a while, it’s not as ancient as some might think. The earliest known instance of the drink in history appears in the 19th century. The legend goes that a Puerto Rican pirate named Roberto Cofresi created a beverage to boost the morale of his crew.

    By the way, Jack Sparrow was nowhere to be found this time, even though it sounds like something he might think up.

    Cofresi decided to use the ingredients available to create a sweet cocktail of pineapple, rum, and coconut. Do these ingredients sound familiar?

    That’s right; these three ingredients make up what’s known today as the Pina Colada. The legend goes on to say that Cofresi met his demise on a particular day in March 1825 when he and his crew were captured and executed by a firing squad.

    On a lighter note, though it’s said this recipe was lost, the drink has continued down through the centuries. Unless, of course, it wasn’t created by the abovementioned pirate (as some believe). It’s said that a barman named Ramon Marrero from the Caribe Hilton (Puerto Rico) created the blend in 1954.

    He claims to have experimented with his blend for three months before he finally settled on the ingredients found in today’s Pina Colada. Ramon went on to serve this famous drink for 35 years, at which time Puerto Rico officially named the Pina Colada its national drink.

    So, while we may not know who exactly came up with this amazing drink, it still remains the taste of the tropics to this day. Well, enough said about the history of this special blend. Let’s move on to the recipes!

    3 Simple Recipes for Making Natural Pina Colada’s

    While the main ingredients are basically the same as we mentioned earlier, this recipe has many variations to choose from. Also, for non-alcoholic versions, the rum can be left out.

    While Pina Coladas are easily found in bars and restaurants, you’ll find that you can make them just as easily as home. Plus, drinks in bars and restaurants are often plagued with high fructose corn syrup and other synthetic ingredients. Unhealthy additives and ingredients are best left out of what we put into our bodies, and natural ingredients taste much better.

    Making this tropical delight is quite simple. You can make a pina colada with just a few tasty ingredients and a blender.  We will go through three healthy recipes for making this traditional cocktail.  Depending on one’s preferences, Pina Coladas can be served over ice, without ice, or frozen.

    1.) Time-Honored Traditional Pina Colada

    Traditional Pina Colada

    Ingredients:

    • 2 Ounces White Rum
    • 1 Ounce of Coconut Cream
    •  3 Ounces of Pineapple juice
    • 1 Cup of Crushed Ice
    • 1 Slice of Pineapple

    Instructions:

    1. Put the cup of crushed ice into the blender. If you don’t have an easy way of crushing your ice, just use ice cubes. Using crushed ice will ensure a smoother consistency and less time blending.
    2. Add the coconut cream. The coconut cream will give your drink a fresh tropical coconut taste without being overpowering. Remember, you are making a cocktail. Hence, you need to balance the taste of various ingredients.
    3. Add the rum. There’s nothing quite like the uniquely sweet taste of rum. If you want a non-alcoholic drink, you can always omit the rum. However, rum is integral to the official Puerto Rican drink.  Nonetheless, it all depends on your preference.
    4. Blend all ingredients on the medium setting. Make sure they are well mixed before ceasing operation.  The final mixture should be creamy, smooth, and sweet.
    5. Prepare and serve. Now that your pina colada is ready to serve empty the drink into a tall glass. Since presentation matters when serving food and drinks, garnish your drink with the pineapple slice.

    There’s nothing like drinking a cold and refreshing Pina Colada on a hot summer day. This drink is great for summer get-togethers, graduation parties (without the alcohol), or as a fancy drink at your weekly cookout. Whatever the case, summers aren’t the same without treating yourself to this tropical tradition.

    2.) Breathtaking Frozen Pina Colada

    Frozen Pina Colada

    Ingredients:

    • 6 Ounces of Pineapple Juice,
    • 3 Ounces of Coconut Cream,
    • 2 Cups of Crushed Ice,
    • 2 Ounces of Rum,
    • 1 1/2 Ounces of Heavy Cream
    • 1 Maraschino Cherry

    Instructions:

    Place the ice in the blender. Using a high setting, blend it vigorously. Keep blending your ice until no large chunks remain. If your blender isn’t able to blend ice very well, no problem; continue to the next step. Blending your ice beforehand will ensure that your drink is smooth and creamy. You don’t want any “crunch” in your final served drink.

    Smooth and creamy is the goal of the end result.

    Place the remaining ingredients in the blender. Add the pineapple juice, rum, coconut cream, and heavy cream to your blender. On a high speed, blend the ingredients until they form a thick mixture. If you couldn’t blend the ice in the prior step, your blender should do just fine with the additional liquid ingredients. Just be sure that there are no ice chunks before serving.

    Pour. At this stage, your frozen pina colada is ready. If you’re feeling fancy, pour your drink into a tall glass or hurricane glass.

    Prepare and serve. Now, it’s time to add the last final touch to the drink. Cut a slit in your maraschino cherry and garnish the rim of your glass. You could also add a pineapple wedge if you’d like. Add a straw and enjoy the drink. You can savor it anytime, especially when it is hot outside.

    Your children will love this cold treat after they come in from a full day of playing outside in the hot sun (without the rum). Better yet, let them make this fun drink with you!

    3.) Chilled Sweet Strawberry Pina Colada

    Strawberry Pina Colada

    Ingredients:

    • 1/2 Pint of Fresh Strawberries
    • 4 Ounces of Pineapple Juice
    • 2 Tablespoons of Sugar
    • 3 Ounces of Rum
    • 3/4 Cup of Mango Juice
    • Sprig of Mint
    • 1/4 Cup of Crushed Ice
    • 2 Ounces of Triple Sec

    Instructions:

    Add strawberries and sugar into a food processor or blender. The strawberries can be cut into smaller pieces in this stage to make this step more manageable. If using a blender, you can add the pineapple juice in this step to make blending easier since pure strawberry puree may be too thick.

    Transfer the pureed sugar and strawberries to a pitcher.  Add the pineapple juice, white rum, mango juice, and the triple sec.  Mix all of your ingredients until completely incorporated.

    Chill. Place your mixture in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving.

    Prepare and serve. Pour your mixture into a martini glass or any other glass of your choice. Garnish with your sprig of mint.

    Strawberries are a great addition to any drink. If you really want to have the great taste of Pina Colada but also want to try something a bit different, this recipe is the one for you. This drink has a beautiful red glow that is sure to make your mouth water on those hot summer days.

    Ideas and Tips

    If you need to make enough Pina Coladas for a number of guests, just double or triple each batch. In addition, if you are wondering why you need to add heavy cream, there’s a good reason.  The cream will give the drink a luscious, creamy, smooth texture, which you won’t be able to resist.

    If you want your drink to taste extra fresh, juice a fresh pineapple. The fresher the ingredients you can use in your recipe, the better.

    Another thing you may already know is that coconut cream is sometimes replaced with milk. However, for the best results, do not make this switch. Don’t be concerned about the fat content of coconut cream. If you’re going to treat yourself to a real and authentic Pina Colada, stick to coconut only in this recipe.

    For alcohol, you can add either white or dark rum. Actually, go ahead and alternate between the two to see which you prefer. Also, when adding ice, be sure not to add too much. Too much ice will water down your drink.

    Final Thoughts

    I can still remember back to the days of my childhood when my mom would make us kids this fancy and tasty drink. I even remember that I oftentimes couldn’t remember what the drink was called when I’d try to beg her to make it again. Happy memories are things to be treasured.

    We hope these simple recipes enable you to create your own happy memories with your friends and family.

    If anyone in your family hasn’t ever had a Pina Colada before (especially children), treat them and make this essence of the tropics ASAP. They’ll never forget that happy memory.

    Pina Colada FAQs

    What is the base ingredient for pina coladas?

    Pineapple juice is the foundation in most cases, providing a fruity flavor and natural sweetness. Then, with coconut and rum, you’ll end up with the traditional flavor of this special drink, though there are other variations that include additional ingredients.

    What kind of rum works best?

    White rum, like Bacardi, adds classic Caribbean flair without overpowering the other flavors. For a more heavy rum flavor, use dark rum. For non-alcoholic variations, try using a few drops of rum extract for the flavor of rum without the alcoholic content.

    What gives homemade pina coladas a creamy texture?

    Blending in coconut cream, coconut milk, or coconut yogurt creates a smooth, creamy blend. This can vary depending on the recipe. Heavy cream and milk products are also used at times, though they aren’t necessary.

    How do you get the frothy top layer?

    Whipping the coconut cream before blending aerates the pina colada for a light, foamy topping. Additionally, you can add an additional layer of whipped coconut cream after pouring the base mixture into your glasses to be stirred in while drinking. This extra cream layer can be garnished with dried sweetened coconut, cherry juice, etc.

    What’s the ideal blender for pina coladas?

    Any high-powered blender will do. The extra blending power will be useful for pulverizing the ice to a frothy consistency better than a standard blender. If in doubt, try the blender you already have as long as it can be safely used with ice.

    Should pina coladas be served frozen or on ice?

    On ice maintains the chill without freezing and diluting the flavors as the drink melts. That said, our family prefers the frozen smoothy texture vs. drinking it over ice. It’s entirely up to your preference.

    What garnishes complement pina coladas?

    Pineapple wedges, maraschino cherries, coconut shavings, mint, lime, or orange slices. The options are almost endless.

    Can you make pina coladas dairy-free?

    Yes, use coconut milk beverages and coconut cream or yogurt for a dairy-free version. We prefer dairy-free products in our family for this particular drink.

    How do you spice up a basic pina colada?

    Add ginger, nutmeg, vanilla, or a splash of rumchata for extra flavor. Feel free to get even more creative than that. Perhaps some mango or papaya as well? It’s completely up to you.

    What glassware is ideal for serving pina coladas?

    Hurricane glasses or large margarita glasses with crushed ice suit the tropical vibe and show off the colors. If serving for a gathering, consider the size of the glasses, how many servings will be needed, and the overall appearance.

  • Green Cookware: Is Ceramic Cookware Safe?

    Green Cookware: Is Ceramic Cookware Safe?

    Green Cookware: Is Ceramic Cookware Safe?

    Cooking for the whole family is one way to express your love and concern for them.  You can ensure that you cook healthy and delicious recipes that everyone will enjoy. Ensuring that the ingredients you prepare are healthy and safe is second nature. But have you ever wondered if the cookware you are using is safe? 

    Table Of Contents
    1. History of Ceramics
    2. Is Ceramic Cookware Safe?
    3. Why Should You Use Ceramic Cookware?
    4. Disadvantages Of Using Ceramic Cookware
    5. Final Thoughts
    6. Ceramic Cookware FAQs

    There’s a lot of hype surrounding all kinds of cookware in the marketing world. Today, we’ll be dealing with ceramic cookware.

    If you’ve ever researched safe cookware, you’ve probably heard about the many dangers of certain materials and chemicals that are often used in today’s pots and pans, including non-stick varieties. Of course, non-stick isn’t the only dangerous kind of cookware, but it’s the easiest to recognize.

    Toxic chemicals, such as the notorious Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), are often found in many non-stick cookware varieties and are known to be unsafe.

    So what happens when you and your family are exposed to small amounts of these chemicals over a long period of time? Well, let’s just say that the answers you read to that question may range wildly from causing detrimental health conditions like cancer or Alzheimer’s to the idea that every kind of cookware is probably safe as long as it’s being sold.

    After all, if the cookware and chemical manufacturers tell us their products are safe, they must be telling us the truth, right?

    I think we all know that plenty of dangerous substances and materials have been sold in the past that were anything but safe.

    Unsafe cookware must be avoided at all costs for three reasons:

    1.) The potential adverse health effects aren’t worth the “benefits” of more “versatile” cookware that contains dangerous chemicals or other reactive substances.

    2.) Questionable cookware is easy to avoid as long as you’re ever-so-slightly informed, especially since safer cookware varieties are readily available.

    3.) Research, lawsuits, and regulations have provided plenty of evidence that there’s been enough incriminating data over the years to give you a reason to doubt claims of safety regarding today’s widely sold cookware.

    The good news is that there are safer kinds of cookware that can replace your non-stick pots and pans. There is absolutely no reason to continue to cook with toxic cookware. While there may be other kinds of cookware that I prefer, ceramic is definitely one solid alternative.

    History of Ceramics

    Ceramic cookware is one of the oldest kinds of cookware that has been used repeatedly through the centuries. The word “ceramics” originated from the Greek word keramikos meaning “of pottery”, and from keramos meaning “potter’s clay”.

    History tells us that the earliest ceramics made by humans were pottery objects made from clay, bone, bone ash, and animal fat. The earliest uses of ceramics in history aren’t known, but what is believed to be the oldest ceramic figurines were discovered in Czechoslovakia.

    Down through the millennia, ceramics were used for art, storage, and cooking. Ceramics have indeed played an integral role in human history.

    Is Ceramic Cookware Safe?

    Ceramic cookware is generally made of inorganic and non-metallic materials that are known to be non-toxic. That means that they don’t typically contain lead, cadmium, or other toxic metals. This is why many people opt to use ceramic cookware rather than non-stick pans, aluminum, copper, or other kinds of toxic cookware.

    However, the questions surrounding the safety of ceramic cookware can’t be answered quite that easily. There are a few very important factors that you need to consider before purchasing any kind of ceramic cookware. As long as you consider the following considerations, ceramic cookware is a great, non-toxic option.

    Important Considerations:

    • Only Purchase 100% Ceramic Cookware
    • Many Foreign Ceramics Contain Lead or Other Contaminants
    • Ceramic Cookware is Fragile
    • 100% Ceramic Cookware is Non-Reactive and Non-Toxic
    • Non-Stick Ceramic Coated Cookware Isn’t the Same as Ceramic Cookware
    • Never Use Ceramic That Isn’t Clearly Indicated as Safe For Food Use.

    When it comes to purchasing quality ceramic cookware, a few things need to be observed. As we mentioned in the list above, it’s important that you only purchase your ceramic cookware if it’s 100% ceramic. It’s also crucial that the glaze doesn’t contain any toxic metals or other contaminants like lead. If you purchase ceramic products made in the US, this usually isn’t a problem.

    Also, it’s worth mentioning that non-stick ceramic-coated metal cookware should not be considered a safe alternative to other potentially toxic cookware. Essentially, this kind of cookware is primarily metal, coated with a few layers of non-stick ceramic material that flakes off or is easily scratched over time, potentially allowing underlying materials and metals to leach into your food.

    Why Should You Use Ceramic Cookware?

    Using ceramic cookware for meal preparation ensures safe and healthy cuisine for you and your loved ones. By using safe cookware alternatives, ceramic in this case, you can have full assurance that the food you put on the table is safe and healthy. What we cook isn’t the only factor in food safety. We must also question the safety of what we cook with.

    When it comes to performance, ceramic cooks quite well. It has good heat retention properties, and many varieties are dishwasher safe as well. Besides that, it’s also environmentally safe.

    Ceramic cookware is also quite versatile. It can survive heat that would melt stainless steel, but it can also be used to store food inside the fridge and freezer. Even microwaving is an option when it comes to ceramic cookware. Furthermore, this kind of cookware looks beautiful when serving meals.

    You shouldn’t settle for anything but high quality when it comes to ceramic. That said, the higher the quality, the more expensive you’ll find products. Consequently, sub-par foreign ceramics that may contain lead are readily available online and elsewhere, so it’s crucial that you don’t cut corners.

    If you can’t afford high-quality ceramic cookware, there are other safe options that are less expensive.

    Disadvantages Of Using Ceramic Cookware

    Sure, ceramic cookware is safe, easy to clean, evenly cooks food, and is toxin-free. However, there are some disadvantages of ceramic cookware. First, the surface of ceramic cookware can be damaged by scrubbing. Secondly, it can be quite heavy compared to other kinds of cookware. Third, it easily cracks, so extra care should be taken when handling it.

    As noted a bit ago, high-quality ceramic may be very expensive compared to other safe cookware alternatives like cast iron or stainless steel. While somewhat durable, you will find that the longevity of ceramic cookware is also naturally not quite as robust as cast iron. It’s rather easy to break a ceramic pan accidentally, but it’s pretty impossible to break a cast iron skillet. 

    Final Thoughts

    When it comes to our family’s health and safety, we always want the best. We want to cook healthy dishes, buy fresh ingredients, maintain the cleanliness of our kitchens, and avoid introducing any potential toxins in our food supply. We tend to overlook the kind of cookware we use when striving to maintain a healthy kitchen.

    With so much conflicting information and clever marketing techniques, it really can be difficult to wade through the options. But, when it comes to ceramic cookware, it’s important to remember that quality is paramount. As long as you purchase high-quality ceramic cookware, you can have assurance your pots and pans are no longer providing you with your daily dose of toxins.

    The key to purchasing any healthy cookware alternative is that there’s more than one option. Personally, ceramic isn’t my favorite cookware choice. But I also don’t mind the plain, bulky look of cast iron. Quality ceramics are also expensive, so that’s a consideration, too. Therefore, there are many great choices when it comes to safe cookware.

    Your choice should be made on which of those kinds of cookware will meet the vast majority of your cooking and personal preferences.

    Ceramic Cookware FAQs

    Is ceramic cookware toxic?

    No, quality ceramic cookware is free of chemicals like PFOA, PTFE, and PFOS that can be toxic. It’s a safer non-stick option.

    Does ceramic have harmful coatings?

    Quality ceramic cookware has an inert glaze coating that is lead-free and non-toxic when intact. Research the brand you’re purchasing from to see what materials were included in the glaze.

    Is ceramic better than Teflon for non-stick?

    Yes, quality ceramic is naturally non-stick and more durable than Teflon coatings that can chip and flake.

    Can ceramic withstand high heat?

    Ceramics can generally handle high heat. That said, when proper cooking techniques are utilized, the “high” setting on the stove isn’t necessary.

    Is ceramic cookware scratch-resistant?

    Ceramic is scratch-resistant but not scratch-proof. Metal utensils can still damage the surface over time, and they’re less durable than stainless steel and cast iron.

    Does ceramic leach chemicals when heated?

    No, ceramic itself does not leach harmful chemicals at any temperature when unglazed or glazed properly.

    Are ceramic non-stick properties long-lasting?

    With proper care, ceramic retains its non-stick surface for several years. However, a well-seasoned and polished cast-iron pan may be a better option for durability.

    Are ceramic cookware oven and dishwasher safe?

    Check manufacturer instructions – quality ceramic is usually dishwasher safe.

    Does ceramic break easily?

    It’s chip and crack-resistant but can break if subjected to sudden temperature changes or direct high impact.

  • Best Flat Iron for Fine Hair: 3 Solid Performers

    Best Flat Iron for Fine Hair: 3 Solid Performers

    Best Flat Iron for Fine Hair: 3 Solid Performers

    If you have fine hair, you’ve probably realized that it can sometimes be difficult to straighten in the morning. While fine hair can be difficult to manage, it’s definitely not impossible. Turn your shiny, silky hair dream into reality with flat hair irons that specifically do well with fine hair.

    Table Of Contents
    1. HSI Professional Digital Ceramic Tourmaline Ionic Flat Iron Hair Straightener
    2. BIO IONIC Onepass Straightening Iron (1 or 1.5 Inch)
    3. MHD Professional 1 Inch Hair Flat Iron – Negative Ionic Technology Straightening Iron
    4. Quick Recap
    5. Flat Iron for Fine Hair FAQs

    If you’re afraid of damaging your hair because you’ve never tried a flat-iron before, there’s really no need for concern.

    Flat irons have been around for a very long time. With the proper use and techniques, flat irons will turn your hair into that straight and silky beauty without any frizz or damaging effects. To help you choose the best flat iron for your fine hair, we’ve chosen three amazing options that you’ll absolutely love.

    HSI Professional Digital Ceramic Tourmaline Ionic Flat Iron Hair Straightener

    HSI Professional Digital Ceramic Tourmaline Ionic Flat Iron Hair Straightener

    This is an excellent and reasonably priced hair straightener. It features high-quality 1-inch ceramic tourmaline plates. These one-inch solid ceramic tourmaline plates have advanced infrared heating technology that heats each strand of hair from the core and outwards. This model effectively handles fine and coarse hair types without any difficulty. Better yet, this model also features special sensors that ensure heat is evenly dispersed.

    Besides being a very high-quality hair straightener, we’d be amiss if we didn’t mention that it boasts a digital heat display and comes bundled with three other items. This straightener would be worth it without the extra items, but it’s an even better buy with them. This straightener comes with a free heat glove, a 5ml bottle of Argan oil leave-in conditioner, and a fancy heat pouch for storage.

    Pros

    • Crisp and Easy to Read Light-Up Digital Display
    • Quick Heating
    • 360 Degree Swivel Cord
    • Ergonomic Design
    • Easy Grip
    • High-Quality 100% Solid Ceramic 1-Inch Plates
    • Fully Adjustable Heat Settings (240F to 450F)
    • Very portable
    • Floating Tourmaline Plates
    • Worldwide Dual Voltage (110v and 220v)
    • Curved Edges Help to Flip and Curl Hair
    • The Plates Clamp evenly Without a Gap
    • Safe 3-Second Power-on Feature*

    Cons

    • 3-Second Power-on*

    With the HSI Professional Digital Ceramic Tourmaline Ionic Flat Iron, you can turn your frizzy, unmanageable fine hair into silky-smooth cover-girl hair. When it comes to convenience, this straightener doesn’t disappoint. Like many other products out there, this does feature a swivel cord, too. As mentioned earlier, it’s impressive that this unit also comes with a convenient pouch and heat glove for the price. The digital display is especially crisp and convenient as well.

    BIO IONIC Onepass Straightening Iron (1 or 1.5 Inch)

    Bio Ionic Onepass Straightening Iron

    There is less friction and no damage. This is how the BIO Ionic straightener with silicone speed strips performs on even the frizziest hair types. Bio Ionic is a breakthrough hair straightener and allows the stylist to straighten the hair in half the time compared to other traditional irons. It’s also said that this particular flat iron is the #1 choice among professionals. It also seals in moisture and nutrients with high levels of negative ions.

    Importantly, this model also features BioCeramic 5-second heaters, which provide near-instant heat-up operation. That means that you’ll be able to get salon-styled hair in the morning, even when you’re in a hurry. While this model doesn’t feature a digital display, its power and styling performance are proven. There are a lot of lesser-quality straighteners out there featuring digital displays, as well as some very good high-quality models. This straightener would be even better if it had a digital display, but does it really matter if it’s effective at getting the job done and styling your hair beautifully?

    Pros

    • 9 Foot 360-Degree Swivel Cord
    • Less friction With Silicon-Coated Ceramic Plates
    • High Levels of Negative Ions
    • Infrared Heating Seals in Moisture
    • Easy-to-Use Temperature Settings (400F Maximum)
    • Instant Heat-Up
    • Ergonomic Design
    • Easy to Use
    • Professional Grade

    Cons

    • No Auto-Off Feature
    • No Digital Display
    • Pricey

    The BIO Ionic hair straightener is impressive and will get the job done. This company likes to show off their technology by creating products that are effective are what they’re designed for. There are so many cheap and budget flat irons on the market that do a terrible job and are completely ineffective. Not only is this straightener effective, but it will also help you save time with the silicon-coated ceramic plates.

    While the performance of this model is solid, it could use some improvement. I mean, really, how hard would it be to include a digital display? Also, I know this may be a salon styling tool, but an auto-off feature isn’t asking too much, either. Either way, though this flat-iron is more pricey than others, it’s definitely not overpriced. That being said, if you want a model that features a digital display, try the HSI  above instead.

    MHD Professional 1 Inch Hair Flat Iron – Negative Ionic Technology Straightening Iron

    MHD Professional 1 Inch Hair Flat Iron Negative Ionic Technology Straightening Iron

    This one-inch straightener with smooth 3D floating plates works best with all hair types and lengths. Unlike some straighteners, this one is easy to use and straightens hair in an instant. It also prevents hair from heat damage because it emits negative ions that seal in the hair’s natural moisture and color.

    This model features three adjustable settings (248F, 356F, and 446F) and an LED power indicator. So, with these adjustable heat settings, you can use it depending on your hair’s needs and styling preferences. For creating perfect curls and waves, use its contoured edges. Plus, it features an auto shut-off mode when it’s not in use for 30 minutes.

    Pros

    • Auto Shut Off
    • Three Temperature Settings
    • Easy-to-Use Handle Lock
    • 360-Degree Rotating Cord
    • 3D Floating Plates
    • 1-Inch Plates
    • One Year Replacement
    • Two-Year Warranty
    • Great for Fine Hair

    Cons

    • Some Purchasers Noted Potential Inaccuracies in the Product Descriptions
    • No Digital Display

    The MHD Professional Titanium Floating Plate Hair Flat Iron is a smart buy for giving your hair a salon look and feel without paying an arm and a leg. It’s easy to use because of its 360-degree swivel 1-inch plates that are even narrow enough to straighten your bangs. For curly hair, you’ll find the contoured edges quite useful.

    Even more awesome is that this model comes with a 1-year replacement and 2-year repair warranty.

    Quick Recap

    If you were looking for hair straighteners and irons that would effectively style your fine hair, you now have three solid options to choose from. All of the above-mentioned flat irons are easy to use because each of them features a 360-degree swivel power cord. Actually, any flat iron that doesn’t feature a swivel cord is behind the times. Each one of these straighteners is extremely easy to use and each one also has different features that should meet anyone’s individual preferences.

    If you have children that you think may try to power on one of your styling tools, the HSI is an excellent option because it has a 3-second power-on feature. Some people might like a feature like that, while others may hate it. The BIO Ionic is a very well-performing straightener that’s a bit more pricey than the other two, but it doesn’t even have a digital display at that price.

    Then again, some of you may not want or need a digital display. The MHD is the least expensive of all three straighteners and could even be considered a “budget” flat iron, but it will do the job.

    So again, it just depends on your preferences. The HSI is probably the best buy out of all three options with its reliable performance and free accessories. The BIO Ionic will efficiently get the job done quickly every single time, and the MHD is a budget option that will get the job done without any extra features.

    There’s no need to struggle with fine and frizzy hair any longer; you just need the right tools. In this case, the right tools will absolutely make your life easier and your styling time more enjoyable. 

    Flat Iron for Fine Hair FAQs

    What features should you look for in a flat iron for fine hair?

    Look for 1-inch plates, adjustable heat settings no higher than 400°F, ionic technology, and materials like ceramic, titanium, or tourmaline.

    Why is temperature control important for fine hair?

    Fine hair is delicate and prone to damage from high heat. Lower temperatures help avoid breakage.

    Which flat iron material works best for fine hair?

    Ceramic plates help prevent damage by distributing even heat and sealing the hair cuticle.

    Are tourmaline or titanium better for fine hair?

    Tourmaline and titanium plates can get too hot for fine hair. Ceramic is the safest choice.

    What size plates work best for straightening fine hair?

    1-inch plates are ideal. They’re wide enough to straighten effectively but not too wide to cause sagging.

    Is it better to use a flat or curling iron to style fine hair?

    A curling iron can add volume and bounce. But a flat iron with rounded edges can also curl hair.

    What tips can prevent damage when using a flat iron on fine hair?

    Always use a heat protectant, keep temperatures low, use smaller sections, and avoid repeat passes.

    Which brand is best for flat irons designed for fine hair?

    Brands like Bio Ionic, CHI, Paul Mitchell, and Rusk make top-rated flat irons for fine hair.

    Is it worth spending more money on a higher-end flat iron if I have fine hair?

    Yes, the high-quality materials and technology justify the investment for delicate, fine hair.

    How can you add volume when flat ironing fine hair?

    Create flicks at the ends to get movement. Tease the roots after straightening. Finish with volumizing products.

  • How to Make Dish Soap That Actually Works

    How to Make Dish Soap That Actually Works

    How to Make Dish Soap That Actually Works

    Natural dish soaps are superior in terms of providing greener alternatives that are safe for your health and the environment. Better yet, natural homemade dish soap works just as well vs. synthetic dish soaps on the market.

    Table Of Contents
    1. Why Use Homemade Dish Soap?
    2. Basic DIY Dish Soap
    3. Powerful DIY Homemade Liquid Dish Soap
    4. Things to Keep in Mind
    5. Summary
    6. How to Make Dish Soap That Actually Works

    Like other dish soaps, it effectively removes dirt and bacteria, including sticky grease and oil. Even though you can easily purchase that store-bought stuff at the nearest grocery, don’t settle for those harsh chemicals.

    Rather, make another simple choice to switch to homemade and natural, as with many other alternatives we recommend here at Enticingly Simple. Plus, you won’t have to wonder if those chemicals from traditional dish soaps have any lasting impact on your health since you won’t be using them anymore.

    Why Use Homemade Dish Soap?

    Commercial dish soaps are made of toxic chemicals that can harm your family’s health and the environment. That’s reason enough to make the switch to more natural alternatives.

    However, even some so-called “green” dish soaps may contain harmful chemicals like Sodium Laureth Sulfate. This harmful chemical is often tainted with a “probable” carcinogen, 1,4-Dioxane, and has been tagged as a low/moderate health hazard by the Environmental Working Group.

    Worse yet, it can also be tainted with Ethylene Oxide, a known human carcinogen with a danger rating of 10 by the Environmental Working Group.

    Basic DIY Dish Soap

    If it’s your first time making your own dish soap, you should begin with easy and simple DIYs in the beginning. Here are some general ingredients and basic instructions to jumpstart your dish soap-making process.

    Ingredients:

    Your first dish soap needs the following ingredients:

    • 1 3/4 Cups of water
    • 1 Tbsp Borax
    • 1 Tbsp Natural Soap Flakes ( or Natural/Homemade Bar Soap)
    • 15-40 Drops of Essential Oils

    Also, feel free to double this recipe if you’re a dishwashing champion in the kitchen.

    Instructions:

    Making dish soap is so easy. Follow the steps below, and you’re done:

    1. Bring water to a boil.
    2. Mix dry ingredients (borax and soap flakes) in a bowl.
    3. Pour boiling water over your mixture of borax and soap flakes.
    4. Stir or whisk the mixture until the soap flakes have fully dissolved.
    5. Allow mixture to cool for 6-8 hours, stirring occasionally.
    6. Once the mixture has gelled, add essential oils and shake well.

    Powerful DIY Homemade Liquid Dish Soap

    If you have successfully made your own basic dish soap, you might want to try making a more comprehensive dish soap that makes use of more ingredients. This dish soap is a force to be reckoned with when it comes to dirty dishes. In this liquid dish soap, you will need to prepare the following ingredients.

    Ingredients;

    • ¼ cup of Castile Soap
    • 1 ½ Cups Water
    • ¼ Cup Natural Soap Flakes (or Grated Homemade Bar Soap)
    • 2 ¼ Teaspoons to 1 Tablespoon of Super Washing Soda (choose the amount based on your preferred thickness) – See Note
    • 1/2 Teaspoon High-Quality Glycerin
    • 15-40 Drops of Essential Oils (citrus oils smell great, and lavender is a wonderful floral scent).

    Instructions:

    1. Boil water. In a bowl, pour boiling water over soap flakes and stir/whisk until dissolved.
    2. Add the following measured ingredients to the soap and water mix: castile soap, super washing soda, and glycerin. Mix Thoroughly.
    3. Allow mixture to sit for 24-36 hours, stirring occasionally.
    4. Once the mixture has reached your preferred consistency, go ahead and add the essential oils of your preference.
    5. Place the mixture inside a pump container. It’s now ready to use!

    Important Notes and Tips:

    1.) If your soap isn’t reaching the desired thickness, just heat it up again and add more washing soda. Also, you will notice that it becomes much thicker after the first 24 hr. cooling time.

    2.) This dish soap mix will thicken over time. So, if you notice it getting thicker over days or weeks, all you’ll need to do is mix in a bit of hot water.

    3.) If you notice clumps at any point in the process of making your dish soap, just use a whisk or blender to get it to the smooth consistency you desire.

    Things to Keep in Mind

    Using water in dish soap is a little tricky. Water in different geographical regions may contain different levels of pH. Therefore, water hardness or softness may drastically vary from one location to another.

    For those of you with soft water, you’ll find that all of your soaps (dish soaps, body wash, laundry, etc.) will clean far better. For those of you with hard water, you’ll have to use noticeably more soap for cleaning. This really applies to any soap you use in your household, including this dish soap.

    With that in mind, don’t go and make a triple or quadruple batch just yet. You may need to tweak the level of washing soda or soap content slightly after your first batch. So, try the standard recipe, then tweak it to your water type (if you’re a perfectionist).

    We only mentioned a few essential oils that can be used. However, there’s an endless list of exciting essential oils with various scents and benefits that you should try.

    There’s simply no reason why each batch of your homemade dish soap can’t be an exciting new scent every single time. That’s why homemade is far superior. Just be sure to use high-quality essential oils.

    Summary

    Say goodbye to commercial dish soaps that have a hazardous effect on your health and the environment. DIY dish soaps are affordable, effective, and easy to make. You can also personalize each batch of dish soap to your own individual preference.

    Better yet, you can make this for a friend or family member as well.

    If you are a beginner when it comes to making DIY dish soap, the basic dish soap recipe is perfect for you. Feel free to make the more comprehensive dish soap recipe once you’ve tried the basic recipe and are more confident.

    Remember, try different essential oils. After all, your customized essential oil scents may just end up causing your friends to be envious of how you created such an aromatic experience in something so simple as dish soap.

    It’s time to save a buck, it’s time to experience adventure, it’s time to venture into yet another realm of homemade simplicity. For the sake of your family, happy memories, and your health, make the switch. You won’t regret it.

    How to Make Dish Soap That Actually Works

    What is the best natural ingredient for homemade dish soap?

    Castile soap is the top base ingredient. It’s made from plant oils and is biodegradable and non-toxic.

    What gives homemade dish soap a thick, gel-like texture?

    Xanthan gum acts as a natural thickening agent to give homemade dish soap a pourable gel consistency.

    What oils help cut grease in DIY dish soap?

    Coconut oil is a powerful degreaser. Olive oil also helps lift grease while adding a smooth texture.

    How do you naturally scent homemade dish soap?

    Add 15-20 drops of essential oils like lemon, grapefruit, orange, or tea tree for a fresh, clean scent.

    Does homemade dish soap produce enough suds?

    Yes, adding a tablespoon of glycerin helps homemade soap have plenty of bubbly suds.

    How long does DIY dish soap last?

    It lasts 2-3 months when stored properly in an airtight container in a cool, dark place.

    Can you use homemade dish soap in the dishwasher?

    This may be okay, depending on the recipe you’re using, and it may void your dishwasher warranty. If your recipe includes lots of oils (coconut, olive oil, etc.), don’t use it in the dishwasher. Dishwashing liquid is also low-foaming. If your soap recipe foams easily, it could cause the dishwasher to overflow.

    What’s the ideal process for making dish soap?

    Slowly melt the ingredients together on low heat, whisking continuously until fully blended. See the recipes earlier in the post for more information.

    How do you package homemade dish soap?

    Dispense into foaming soap dispensers, reused bottles, or glass jars with pumps.

    Is DIY dish soap safe for hands and the environment?

    Yes, homemade soap without harsh chemicals is far gentler to use than traditional synthetic dish soap. Also, since you’re using natural ingredients, they’re biodegradable and good for the environment.

  • How to Make Infused Water That is Absolutely Refreshing

    How to Make Infused Water That is Absolutely Refreshing

    How to Make Infused Water That is Absolutely Refreshing

    Are you fond of drinking soda, coffee, and other flavored drinks? They taste good, but we all know that drinking these drinks in huge amounts can adversely affect our health. Why not try adding fruits and herbs? If you’re up for some positive change, start drinking healthy alternatives.

    Table Of Contents
    1. What is Infused Water?
    2. What Does Infused Water Do to Our Health?
    3. How To Make Infused Water
    4. Most Popular Infused Recipes
    5. Final Thoughts on Infused Water
    6. Infused Water FAQs

    Stop drinking soda and other artificially flavored beverages. We should drink water regularly, not coffee, soda, or artificially sweetened drinks. But what if water bores you? We’ve got one great solution for that – infused water.

    What is Infused Water?

    Infused water combines water, different fruits, and flavorful herbal leaves to make the water more interesting, tasty, and healthier. Examples of fruits and herbs that you can add to your water are strawberries, tea leaves, basil, lemons, cucumbers, oranges, blueberries, and mint.

    You can add almost everything depending on your needs and personal preferences.

    This is a natural way to drink a slightly sweet, tasty beverage without the addition of toxic artificial sweeteners.

    What Does Infused Water Do to Our Health?

    Unlike canned juices and sodas, infused water is a refreshing drink that’s actually healthy. It’s a great companion to healthy weight loss, too. Drinking water naturally boosts your metabolism, so if you don’t like the plain taste of water, infused water is exactly what you need. Since infused water doesn’t taste nearly as boring as water, you’ll likely increase your daily fluid intake as well. 

    If you want to lose weight, getting plenty of fluids is foundational. With infused water, you can cut out those unhealthy beverages that tempt you and replace them with this refreshingly healthy alternative.

    Do you have digestive problems or feel bloated? Infused water can be a great way to detox, too. Infused water for detoxification is called detox water. It’s a combination of vegetables, fruits, and herbs plunged into cold water.

    Although infused water is flavorsome, it contains little to no calories. It helps eliminate toxins and acids from your body, helping you feel great and lose weight. Combine your detox water with a full one-week detox plan to make it more effective and fun.

    Other Benefits of Drinking Infused Water:

    • Helps with hydration during weight loss.
    • Keeps food moving through your system.
    • Improves your mood.
    • Cools your body.
    • Flushes toxins away.
    • Prevents you from craving junk foods.
    • Reduces muscle fatigue during workouts.
    • Perks you up in the morning (especially with mint).

    How To Make Infused Water

    1. Gather your chosen ingredients. Rinse them well to make sure they’re clean. You can choose not to peel fruits and vegetables, but be sure to buy organic. Avoid overripe or bruised fruits. Slice the fruits and veggies thinly so that they will infuse more quickly. Fill up a pitcher or water bottle with purified water.
    2. Wait for the ingredients to infuse into the water. Let the water with fruits and vegetables sit at room temperature for 2 hours at most. The longer your fruit soaks in the water (even in the fridge), the more flavorful the water will be. Remember, fruits and vegetables infuse their flavors differently. Citrus infuses almost instantly, while herbs take a longer time. Once you’ve put in all the ingredients of your choice, put the infused water inside the fridge. Tip: To speed up the infusing of leafy ingredients like peppermint, slice or gently rub the leaves together before adding them to your water.
    3. Drink and enjoy! Now you can enjoy your healthy infused drink. Feel free to refill it with water and wait for it to be infused again.

    Note: You can be very creative with your herbs, fruits, and vegetables. To make your water more charming, you can even add edible flowers.

    Other Optional Ingredients:

    • Spices: Cardamom pods, cinnamon sticks, cloves, black pepper, fresh ginger, and vanilla beans
    • Herbs: Thyme, spearmint, cilantro, rosemary, basil, peppermint, and parsley
    • Edible flowers: lavender, rose, hibiscus, pansies, violets and citrus blossoms
    • Fruits: berries, tropical fruits, citrus, melon, apples, peaches, pears and more
    • Vegetables: celery, beets, bell peppers, carrots, and cucumbers

    Most Popular Infused Recipes

    Making infused water is as easy as slicing fruit and filling up a pitcher. Many people have perfected their own recipes using fruits, vegetables, and herbs. Here are a few of the most popular infused recipes and their health benefits that you can try:

    Lemon- Infused Water

    Lemon Infused Water

    The most basic and most popular infused water is lemon water. It is also called lemon detox water because it’s perfect for detoxifying the body and helps with healthy weight loss. Add in mint leaves, and you will have a delicious, invigorating citrus flavor. It’s really cheap and healthy compared to sodas and other unhealthy colored drinks.

    Tangerine and Strawberry Infused Water

    Tangerine Strawberry Infused Water

    Hydration boosts metabolism, while fruity water increases the likelihood of keeping hydrated. Add some cinnamon to this recipe for a bit of warm spice if you’d like. Tangerine and strawberry are fruits available year-round, so you can always keep a fresh batch of this mixture in the fridge.

    Mango Ginger Water

    Mango Infused Water

    Ginger in water may sound strange, but it’s great combined with fresh ripe mango. Ginger and mango infused in water boost your metabolism while keeping you hydrated. Plus, the combination of these flavors is incredible. Try adding ginger to other recipes as well.

    Cucumber Lemon Water

    Cucumber Lemon Infused Water

    On a hot summer day, cucumber and lemon is a very refreshing combination. This is a great recipe for after a workout or after you’ve been out in the hot sun for a long time. If you need a pick-me-up or a way to cool down, this is a great recipe. Better yet, add some peppermint to this mix, and you will feel refreshed almost instantly.

    Final Thoughts on Infused Water

    Infused water doesn’t only make you feel refreshed; it makes the process of staying hydrated easy and simple. If you want to be healthy, you need to get used to drinking water. But, just because you need to drink water doesn’t mean that variety and creativity won’t make it into a pleasurable experience.

    Fruits, spices, herbs, and veggies will be excellent healthy additions to the water you drink. With the small amounts of vitamins and sugars from these fruits, you’ll find that infused water feels like drinking a beverage without all the unhealthy characteristics. 

    Remember, there are many kinds of fruit-infused recipes that you can make. Compared to other drinks that are not so healthy, infused water will save money in your purse as well. Drinking water will never be boring again!

    Infused Water FAQs

    What fruits work best for infused water?

    Citrus fruits like lemon, lime, grapefruit, and orange make refreshing infused waters. Berries, melon, cucumber, and apples work well too.

    What herbs or vegetables can be used?

    For a flavor boost, try herbs like mint, basil, rosemary, or sliced cucumbers, celery, and ginger.

    How long should you infuse the water?

    2-3 hours allows maximum flavor extraction. You can infuse overnight in the fridge for stronger flavor.

    Does the produce need to be organic?

    Organic is ideal, but thoroughly washing non-organic produce helps remove pesticides and chemicals.

    How much produce should be used per serving?

    1-2 cups of chopped produce like citrus slices, berries, or cucumber provides ample flavor infusion.

    Do you have to remove the produce?

    Yes, strain out produce after infusing to prevent overpowering flavors or mold growth. Compost leftovers.

    What is the best way to store infused water?

    Store in airtight jugs or bottles in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.

    Does infused water need a sweetener?

    The natural sweetness of the fruit is usually enough, but you can add honey, maple syrup, or stevia.

    Can infused water be made into ice cubes?

    Yes, freeze leftover infused water in ice cube trays for flavorful hydration later on.

  • Water-Based Nail Polish: Bye-Bye Despicable Chemicals

    Water-Based Nail Polish: Bye-Bye Despicable Chemicals

    Water-Based Nail Polish: Bye-Bye Despicable Chemicals

    A new coat of nail polish gives your nails a trendy, attractive look and also happens to be an amazing way to look dashing. But did you know that many brands of this colorful liquid contain upwards of 30 chemicals? These chemicals are harsh and extremely hazardous to the environment.

    Table Of Contents
    1. Nail Polish Dangers: The Problems With Mainstream Nail Polish
    2. "Non-Toxic" Nail Polish Blunder
    3. Truly Safe Non-Toxic Nail Polish Alternatives: Water Based Nail Polish
    4. Advantages of WaterBased Nail Polish
    5. Popular Water-Based Nail Polish Brands
    6. Water-Based Nail Polish FAQs

    Not only are they an environmental hazard, but they’re also harmful to your health.

    Isn’t it rather obvious that nail polish is just a mixture of chemicals? I mean, really, haven’t you ever smelled the heavy and harsh fumes? Even though most women constantly expose themselves to toxic chemicals every time they get a fresh coat of paint on their nails, many don’t even stop to think about the risks.

    Most of us have been there at one time or another. Information leads to action, and there’s an abundance of data regarding the harmful chemicals in nail polish.

    Nail Polish Dangers: The Problems With Mainstream Nail Polish

    Nail polish contains some very harmful chemicals and additives. The three most notorious chemicals found in nail polish are Formaldehyde, Dibutyl Phthalate (DBP), and Toluene. Over the years, these chemicals have really taken quite the beating in the media and on countless websites and blogs.

    1: Formaldehyde – 

    Out of all the chemicals found in nail polish, this particular chemical is one that almost everyone has heard of before. As an intermediate in the combustion of methane, formaldehyde is “known to be a human carcinogen.”

    Formaldehyde Human Carcinogen

    The Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) first released an updated carcinogenicity profile on formaldehyde in their 12th Report on Carcinogens (RoC) in 2011, affirming it as a definite human carcinogen.

    Furthermore, formaldehyde has been linked to lung and nasal cancer. So, while this chemical might be excellent for embalming bodies, it’s really not something I’d prefer putting on my nails.

    On a serious note, this chemical is hazardous, period. While this may offend, you are being irresponsible if you’re lackadaisically painting your nails (or anyone else’s) with nail polish that contains this chemical that is known to cause cancer. If you aren’t sure whether of not your nail polish contains this ingredient, it’s likely that it does.

    Don’t take any chances here; it’s already been proven that chemicals easily leach into the bloodstream when applied to the nails. Properly dispose of your dangerous nail polish and never use it again, especially since safer alternatives exist.

    2: Dibutyl Phthalate (DBP) – 

    As a chemical that most are probably unfamiliar with, Dibutyl Phthalate is a synthetically manufactured chemical that’s useful for making plastics more flexible. This chemical does not occur naturally and is an oily and odorless substance. Furthermore, applications of this chemical include its use in carpet adhesives, insect repellants, glue, and rocket fuel.

    I know we all want really stunning nails. But for goodness’ sake, I don’t want a rocket fuel additive in my nail polish, do you? I’d be far more comfortable with brittle-cracking nail polish all day long rather than being exposed to such a questionable chemical as this. It’s also said that DBP has neurotoxic effects.

    Thankfully, this chemical has been banned in Europe. Dibutyl phthalate has also been classified by authoritative bodies as a “reproductive and developmental toxicant”. Worse yet, the Environmental Working Group (EWP) has given this chemical a hazard rating of 10, the highest possible danger level.

    3: Toluene – 

    We all love nail polish that goes on smoothly, right? Well, that’s what this particular chemical is used for in nail polish. However, this chemical has also been banned in Europe for its adverse health effects.

    So, what’s the problem with Toluene? As a chemical that’s used in gasoline as an octane booster, toluene is listed as a developmental hazard.

    It’s said that it may harm an unborn child if exposure happens during pregnancy. Also, it’s been associated with low birth weight, birth size, hearing loss, and other learning disabilities. Refrain from using any nail polish that contains this terrible ingredient.

    That’s not all…

    As if the three previously mentioned chemicals weren’t reason enough to be extremely cautious regarding what you’re putting on your nails, keep in mind that there are plenty of other chemicals we didn’t mention. Perhaps you read a news story about triphenyl phosphate. 

    If you haven’t read about the above chemical, you also don’t know that findings from a study administered by Duke University revealed that all women participating in the study had a metabolite of the chemical in their bloodstream just 10-14 hours after painting their nails. The levels of diphenyl phosphate (a metabolized form of TPHP) increased by a factor of 7 in the test subjects.

    Worse yet, as a chemical not part of the “big 3” dangerous chemicals we listed earlier, triphenyl phosphate is an endocrine disruptor that also causes reproductive and developmental problems. Though we’ve listed four toxic chemicals in nail polish, that’s just the tip of the iceberg.

    The Scary Reality:  You may be poisoning yourself with your nail polish.

    “Non-Toxic” Nail Polish Blunder

    That was all very depressing, and I’m sure you’ll want to take a deep breath in anticipation of happier things. But wait, before we move on to the good nail polish alternatives, we need to discuss one important detail about “non-toxic” nail polish.

    A 2012 study by the California Department of Toxic Substances Control proved that companies claiming to be “toxic-free” were, in fact, quite toxic based on laboratory studies. Thus, while these companies claimed to be non-toxic, they added chemicals they knew to be toxic.

    In essence, they were claiming that they weren’t using toxic ingredients, that they, in fact, were using. This demonstrates the sad reality that many companies are perfectly willing to mislead consumers as long as they make acceptable profits.

    Truly Safe Non-Toxic Nail Polish Alternatives: Water Based Nail Polish

    This growing concern about the toxicity of nail polish has pushed manufacturers to come up with water-based nail polish solutions that do not contain the slew of toxic ingredients we mentioned earlier. This new, non-toxic trend in the nail polish industry is a refreshing reminder that if consumers have the right information, they will cause the market to shift in the right direction.

    While not all the companies were honest about their “non-toxic” claims, there are some valid companies that make truly non-toxic nail polish products.  The most non-toxic nail polish solutions are water-based as opposed to solvent-based.

    Since these alternatives are water-based, water evaporates into the air during drying instead of volatile fumes from solvents (like in regular nail polish).

    Generally, water-based nail polish comprises ingredients like acrylics, colorants, and water. How refreshing. I remember using acrylic paint in my 5th-grade art class.

    Advantages of WaterBased Nail Polish

    Water-based nail polish has many advantages, aside from being completely free from toxins. Water-based nail polish is quick-drying, durable, and is available in many various long-lasting colors. It doesn’t stain the fingernails, dry them out, and usually lasts about a week.

    It should be noted that this stuff won’t perform quite as well as the toxic and solvent-based varieties we discussed earlier. But it also won’t poison you. The lack of performance should be expected, considering that solvent-based nail polishes have rocket fuel additives. It can’t get much more well-performing and toxic than that.

    Water-based nail polish is removed without acetone, another chemical harmful to the environment and health. While many water-based nail polish solutions aren’t quite as durable as their toxic alternatives, their durability is quite impressive for what they are.

    While you may need to paint your nails more often, at least you won’t be feeding your body chemicals it never wanted in the first place.

    Popular Water-Based Nail Polish Brands

    The growing popularity of water-based nail polish has threatened traditional chemical-based brands. Water-based nail polish is far safer and affordable, with prices ranging from seven to fourteen dollars per bottle. The following options are just two water-based nail polish brands that you can choose from.

    Piggy Paint Water-Based Nail Polish

    Piggy Paint

    Piggy Paint was originally released as a fun, non-toxic, and eco-friendly nail polish for kids. Today, it’s a solid, non-toxic, and cruelty-free nail polish choice for health-conscious grown-ups, too. Better yet, they now have an entire adult line of nail polish called SOPHi.

    Also, the durability and performance of this naturally non-toxic nail polish can be greatly improved by using their base coat + sealer product. Piggy paint is free of formaldehyde, toluene, phthalates (DBT), ethyl acetate, acetone, Bisphenol A, and many other harmful chemicals found in normal nail polish.

    Ingredients –

    Piggy Paint Comparison
    Look at how the solvent-based nail polish eats through the foam!

    Its main ingredients include water, copolymer, acrylates, and neem oil. It also contains colorants, depending on the shade: Red 34 Lake, iron oxide, mica, ultramarines, titanium dioxide, red 28, violet 2, copper flake, and others. Remember, none of the harmful and harsh ingredients found in normal nail polish will be found in Piggy Paint. With all these non-toxic ingredients, It’s as natural as mud! 

    Application –

    To apply Piggy Paint, first wash your hands with soap and water. Dry them before applying 2-3 thin coats of nail polish. In between coats, you can blow dry polished nails on warm heat (low setting) until dry. While not necessary, blow drying with warm heat will harden the nail polish more efficiently for maximum protection against chipping. Also, as we mentioned before, using the basecoat + sealer will provide superior results.

    Advantages and Disadvantages –

    The great thing about Piggy Paint is that it usually lasts up to a week or more without chipping. However, just remember that your results will be best if you use the recommended application practices.

    Applying safe nail polish can also be a great bonding activity for mother and daughter, except with Piggy Paint, you won’t have to worry about toxic chemicals. The only disadvantage of Piggy Paint is that it likely won’t be quite as durable as traditional toxic nail polish.

    Piggy Paint can also be a fun learning tool for kids. Developmentally, painting nails will improve your daughters’ fine motor skills and allow them to express creativity while becoming familiar with different colors.

    All of this being said, just remember that it’s always a good idea to help your kids paint their nails and never leave them unattended. If you do, you may return to a room of new and interesting impressionistic art on your bedroom walls.

    Honeybee Gardens Nail Polish

    Honeybee Gardens

    For those who are looking for a solvent-free and safe nail polish alternative, Honeybee Gardens is another great solution for you. Like the Piggy Paint, Honeybee Gardens doesn’t make use of harmful chemicals and irritating fumes. Its ingredients are water, acrylates, and non-ionic soaps, and may contain iron oxide, mica, titanium dioxide, and ultramarine blue.

    It comes in many different colors, which look great. But again, durability will largely depend on how you apply this nail polish.

    Application – 

    Honeybee Gardens becomes tack-free in about 15 minutes, just as quickly as regular nail polish. However, it requires substantial additional drying time. The trick is to apply two thin coats instead of one thick coat because they dry up quickly. Natural factors such as humidity and temperature can also affect drying time.

    Honeybee Gardens states that 75% hardness will generally occur after 1 hour. Moreover, 100% hardness will occur after roughly 4-6 hours of drying time. Therefore, care needs to be taken in the hours following nail polish application. For best results, apply Honeybee Gardens nail polish at night so that it will harden properly. 

    Honeybee Gardens Nail Polish Removal – 

    Honeybee Gardens Ingredients
    The first ingredient in water-based nail polish is… Water!

    Removing this water-based nail polish can be tedious at times since the nail polish bond will strengthen over time. So, it’s recommended that the nail polish is removed at or just after a week of wear. The nail polish can be effectively removed with the Honeybee Gardens felt pad and Honeybee nail polish remover. It can also be removed with alcohol.

    For removal, hold the wet felt pad (or cotton ball) on the nail for a few seconds. Then, with gentle pressure, wipe off the nail polish.  It may take a few swipes before the nail polish is completely removed, but remain patient during this process. Depending on various factors, it may take longer or shorter to remove. Just keep rubbing gently, and the nail polish will come off.

    After removal, wash your hands with soap and water. You should also know that acetone-based nail polish remover won’t work because Honeybee Gardens is not a solvent-based formula.

    Advantages and Disadvantages – 

    Honeybee Gardens water-based nail polish ensures a safe and quality nail polish. It’s made of natural ingredients and doesn’t make use of harmful substances. It’s also water-based and without any of the offensive odors of solvent-based nail polish.

    It’s safe for adults and kids and can be easily removed with a bit of patience. However, Honeybee Gardens nail polish will likely chip off or scratch easily if a longer curing time is not given. Also, people with dry, porous, or ridged nails may have a more difficult time removing this nail polish.

    There are many brands of water-based nail polish that you can choose from. Healthy beauty experts always suggest opting for non-toxic nail polish alternatives instead of their solvent-based evil twins. The toxicity of traditional nail polish isn’t worth it for you or your family.

    Do you want to check your current nail polish brands for toxicity? Check out EWG’s Skin Deep Cosmetic Database

    Water-Based Nail Polish FAQs

    What makes water-based nail polish less toxic?

    Water-based polishes skip harsh chemicals like formaldehyde, toluene, and dibutyl phthalate.

    Does water-based nail polish last as long?

    Yes, new formulas last just as long, up to 7-10 days without chipping or smudging.

    Is the application different than regular polish?

    Water-based polish glides on and dries fast like other polishes with no difference in application. Warm heat can help with the hardening process.

    Does water-based nail polish limit color options?

    No. You can find just as many trendy colors and finishes like matte, glossy, sheer, glittery, and more.

    Are water-based polishes better for nails?

    Yes, the water allows nails to breathe and reduces exposure to damaging chemicals, many of which were addressed earlier in this post.

    Does water-based nail polish have a bad odor?

    No, most water-based polishes have little to no odor compared to the strong smell of solvents.

    Is water-based nail polish more expensive?

    Prices are comparable to regular polish, ranging from $6-$18 based on brand and quality. Affordable options are available.

    Where can I buy safe water-based nail polish?

    Popular natural brands include Honeybee Gardens, Zoya, Suncoat, Piggy Paint, Acquarella, and Klee Kids.

    Any tips for transitioning to water-based polish?

    Use a base coat for smooth application and test out various brands to see which works best for you.