Health, Spa & Beauty

Designer bags at a fraction of the retail price - preloved and brand new!

2011-04-23T02:43:00.000-07:00

Be thrift and trendy this season! You don't have to break your bank to look as trendy as your favorite celebrities. You just have to shop smart!

Here's introducing to you - JustBAGIt, a young , enterprising and innovative company, manned by people truly passionate about branded or luxury goods. You would be able to find most of the items under that umbrella, ranging from bags, wallets, watches, sunglasses and purses to various types of accessories here.

JustBAGIt features an extensive selection of designer goods - brand-new or pre-loved - from your favorite big brands such as Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Chanel, Coach, Prada, Longchamp, and a few selected others.

JustBAGIt only sells 100 % authentic and original designer goods, whether they are sourced straight from the designer boutiques of Europe and the USA, or for the preloved items, from people like you and me, who are fashion fanatics and would like to trade-in a beloved (and of course, well taken care of) designer piece to make way for a new purchase.

JustBAGIt , living every inch up to its name, pledges to bring you value-for-money buys, always. If you feel our pre-orders of brand new goods still doesn't suit your palette or your pockets, do browse through our pre-loved items page.

One of our favorite taglines is: Now everyone can FLAUNT! WHo says you have to have truckloads of money to support a fashion fetish? Keeping up with the Jones's have never been easier on the pockets!

You can also follow the latest celebrity bag trends smack from Hollywood by following us. Constant updates will be posted. Also, get tips on how to tell on the authenticity of a designer bag.

Don't hesitate, make it a BagIt Day today by visiting our website at www.facebook.com/justbagit.com.my ! See you there! :)

Health Bit - What Avocado & Pears Mean to Women

2009-04-01T01:02:00.000-07:00

Health Tip of the day:

What immediately comes to mind when you look at an avocado or a pear? Think deeper and look harder: you might see a resemblance of the human female womb and cervix (picture an upturned pear or avocado and compare them to the female reproductive anatomy in your biology textbook).

Reproductive organs of the human female

Avocados

A Pear

Coincidentally (or perhaps it was God's clue to us mortal beings), avocados and pears are very good fruits that specifically target the health and function of the womb and cervix of the female. The latest research shows that when a woman eats one avocado a week, it balances hormones, shed unwanted birth weight and prevents cancers.

There are over 14,000 photolytic chemical constituents of nutrition in each of these fruits, of which modern science have only studied and named about 141 of these. So start munching on 'em avocados and pears for a healthier womb and cervix today! ^.^

The Dos and Don’ts of Using a Physical Exfoliant

2009-03-31T02:22:00.000-07:00

So how is a physical exfoliant used? An exfoliant is used almost the same way as a cleanser, by wetting your skin before gently rubbing your skin with the exfoliant in circular motion, taking precaution not to be too overzealous.

Scrubbing too hard or too frequently will not do your skin any good contrary to what most people believe – it will only cause your face to be scrubbed raw. There are many cases of women (or men) getting red and irritated skin because of this.

Make this your mantra: too much of a good thing is bad for you. This applies very well for scrubs and polishes.

The eye area should be avoided while exfoliating. After that, the face is rinsed with preferably warm water and a moisturizer should be applied especially if a pulling sensation is felt on the skin.

The general rule is to use a body exfoliant for the body only, and not the face as usually body exfoliants are harsher, consisting of larger and sharper particles that might injure your cells.

A note to mention on the frequency of using a scrub – it should not be used as an everyday routine. Although scrubs serve to remove dead cells that give you a dry and dull look, your body system puts the dead cells at the surface of your skin for a reason – to protect the delicate living cells below.

Exfoliating done in moderation will reveal beautiful, softer and more radiant skin, and the best frequency to do this is once in every two weeks. This is about the period the cells on your skin take to turn over.

However, tolerance level to scrubbing differs among individuals, and it is best you work your way to a more frequent exfoliating if you desire. After a while of using scrubs, you might realize that more frequent scrubbing will not improve your complexion any further because there are no dead cells left on your skin’s surface. This is a cue for you to give your skin a break and let it heal some before you scrub it again.

Another myth to avoid is that scrubbing frequently and too excessively will clean your pores, reduce your skin’s oiliness, decrease your acne and give you a permanent healthy glow. It is even more of a folly to believe that exfoliants can physically remove blackheads, whiteheads or worse, pimples – it does not. In fact, it may cause your skin to break out especially if pimples or blackheads or scraped and not extracted properly, so for people with this skin condition, more precaution should be practiced while using exfoliants – choose them well and make sure your products are suitable for your skin type.

Here's a video of chemical/ physical exfoliating:

Facial Care: How To Exfoliate Your Face

Physical Exfoliants (Polishes & Scrubs) in the market – what they can do for your skin

2009-03-30T01:56:00.001-07:00

Exfoliating your skin is an important step in your beauty regime, as important as cleansing, toning and moisturizing, in fact – this is a well known fact as it is crucial for removing dead skin cells on the surface layer of your skin that makes your complexion dull, scaly and lifeless. It functions to cleanse the skin pores and remove dirt from your face just like a cleanser in fact, except that on top of that, it also sloughs off cells.

Products with exfoliants

Exfoliants will also promote blood circulation, giving your face and body a soft, radiant and healthy glow. A good exfoliant also unblocks pores and stimulate cell turnover. Regularly exfoliating your skin can also help in reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles on your face.

Exfoliation can be categorized under physical exfoliation and chemical exfoliation, which includes chemical peels or treatments using certain chemical ingredients. There are a few types of physical exfoliants in the market today. This topic is specifically dedicated to them. I will touch on chemical exfoliation in subsequent posts.

Physical exfoliation can further be divided into scrubs and polishes. What are the differences between the two? Most probably would not know this and use both terms interchangeably, which is understandable since it is quite subjective and a matter of personal preference. What I mean by this is one person’s scrub may be another person’s polish and vice versa. Let me explain.

Salt Scrubs

Both scrubs and polishes serve the same purpose – to remove pore-clogging dead cells and dirt from your skin. What separate them are the sizes and the level of harshness on the skin of the exfoliants or abrasives.

Salt Scrub

Scrubs are usually deemed to be the product with the larger abrasives/ exfoliant. While they tend to be stronger in their ability to clean and exfoliate, they are naturally harsher than polishes and thus, are not very suitable for sensitive skin or problematic skin.

Fruit pulp scrubs

Examples of scrubs are such as sugar or salt scrubs, along with a range of other beads, which can be natural or synthetic in nature. The most popular synthetic beads would be the polyethylene beads, which are usually cheaper than the rest in the market, like wax beads. Natural plant-based exfoliants would be such as walnut shell powders, apricot shell scrubs, cocoa shell scrubs, rice scrubs, limnanthes (algae) scrubs, and a series of others.

Sesame Seeds

Almond scrubs

Walnut shell is a popular natural scrub in the market.

Polishes on the other hand comprise of smaller and softer exfoliants, or synthetic collapsible beads made out of cellulose or mannitol sugars. Examples of natural exfoliants in polishes are such as fruit pulps like cranberry, kiwi, rosehips and orange peels, as well as strawberry seeds.

Oatmeal scrub

Besides that, there is also another type of gentle exfoliant that can dissolve once you rub them on your skin. They are mannitol or cellulose-based and usually, active ingredients like jojoba oil or vitamin E can be encapsulated inside these beads for the added advantage.

Next: The dos and don'ts of scrubbing.

The power of gold in skincare – an unconventional royal treatment

2009-03-29T06:04:00.000-07:00

Gold is probably the most well-known element in the world – it is a symbol of prestige, luxury and status. It is quite improbable to find a person who has not heard of gold in modern life, unless that person has been living under a coconut shell all his life. Gold has since time immemorial been used as a currency, to make jewellery, as well as for many other industrial uses such as in photography, dentistry and electronics due to its high conductivity in electricity.

Fair and well. But have you heard of gold being used in skincare? One of the trends that is beginning to make its way up the skin care market all over the world is a very extravagant treatment carried out with 24 karat gold, believe it or not. In fact, some of the most prestigious spas in the world have already long promoted this treatment befitting for a queen or someone of royal blood.

Even Cleopatra, famed to be one of the most beautiful women in the world used it as part of her beauty regime, reportedly sleeping with a gold mask each night. In ancient China, the queen of the Ch’ing dynasty was said to have used a gold massage roller on her face everyday as the key to a youthful appearance.

Such a treatment of course comes with a very hefty price tag as can be expected. It is said to have started in China by a skincare manufacturing giant. It has since spread to many other parts of the world. The treatment is carried out by applying sheets of 24 karat gold directly onto the person’s face.

I think my grandmother, had she been alive, would have thrown a fit at such wastefulness. Even I had a hard time believing my eyes when I first saw the treatment at a beauty expo about a year ago, when the trend was first taking off. My initial reaction was to wonder whether the gold sheets can be reused after the facial. If so, then at least it would have been worth it, no? Unfortunately, I was told that the dead cells from the person’s skin would stick to the gold and recovering the element again would be a messy business.

See the video to convince yourself this is not merely a prank.

So what is the benefit of using gold in your skincare treatment? To glitter, well, not literally though. Using gold jewellery is capable of making you the centre of attention, being closely related to a woman looking beautiful and elegant. Using this treatment is said to produce the same kind of result by making your skin so radiant and youthful you’d be sure to turn heads.

Gold is known to be a very good anti-ageing and healing ingredient that is capable of reversing oxidation damage to the skin, enhancing skin elasticity and accelerating cell renewal. The concept is being touted to have originated from Ayurvedic teachings, which is an ancient Indian healing art. The Gold treatment will leave your skin feeling smooth, wrinkle-free and baby-soft.

Because it is the softest known metal, it is said to be easily absorbed into the skin. Thus, it is exploited to reduce fine lines by penetrating the skin, rejuvenating and revitalizing it. Besides that, it facilitates the removal of toxins and wastes from your body as well as promotes lymphatic drainage. Gold is also known to slow down collagen depletion as well as the breakdown of elastin in the skin, preventing sagging and giving a firming effect. It also reduces the appearance of sun damage and age spots by being anti-inflammatory, therefore slowing down melanin secretion and reducing age spots.

Luxurious and extravagant ingredients have often been used to fuel beauty trends, notably when caviar and champagne were introduced to the market sometime back. They catered to the more pampered and privileged class. This is no longer the case as market leaders continue to use traditional treatments to design more convenient products for the modern women today. The gold trend is probably set to continue for a long time more, bringing the world the utmost lavishness for the skin, health and wellbeing.

Seaweed/ Algae in Skincare & Bodycare – The Thallasso Concept

2009-03-27T07:01:00.000-07:00

For a long time now, the Thallasso or Oceanic concept surrounding seaweeds and algae has been percolating in the skincare and spa market, appearing in products like masks, creams, gels, scrubs, serums and even washes. History has it that in the Greek mythology, Aphrodite, the goddess of love, who rose from the sea waters, owed her beauty to the plants of the sea. Her famed dewy complexion and beautiful skin bears testament to the nurturing and pampering treatment of seaweed and marine algae.

Green algae

Brown algae

Just like other ingredients that originate from the sea like Dead Sea Mud and Dead Sea Salt, seaweed and algae-derived products are very popular choices today for the exact same reasons – that the sea provides us with a multitude of trace elements, amino acids and minerals as well as vitamins that bode very well for our skin and wellbeing.

A mixture of species of seaweed

Blue green marine algae

Seaweed and algae are known to be multifunctional – they promote anti ageing of the skin cells by toning, moisturizing, revitalizing and oxygenating the cells of the body and skin. They are fortified with vitamins like A1, B1, B2, B6, B12, C, E, K, pantothenic acid, folic acid, and niacin, and they contain 60 trace elements, along with at least 12 minerals, some of which are such as sodium, potassium, calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, iron, zinc and manganese.

In fact, seaweeds and algae actually absorb and concentrate all the minerals present in sea water and make them into a form that can easily be assimilated by the human body (the concentration of the minerals in the seaweed/ algae are nearly identical to the concentration of the minerals found in human blood).

Seaweed/ algae derived masks are very popular in the skin care market

Some products that abide to the Thallaso concept using seaweed/ algae/ their derivatives.

Recognizing the unique properties of seaweed, Japanese and Korean absorbed this sea vegetable into their daily diet. It is naturally better than land vegetables because it contains vitamin B12, which is rarely found on the latter. Also, a constituent called alginic acid present in the cell wall of brown algae is a natural cleanser for the intestines. This alginic acid is largely responsible for the tensile strength and elasticity and is an essential defense for the plant’s survival in turbulent seawater.

Another product using seaweed/ algae.

It has been researched that in combination with other Thallaso ingredients like sea salt, the seaweeds and algae are able to revitalize the body’s metabolism, breaking down cellulite deposits and dispersing local fatty cells to improve the body’s general health and appearance. The special combination of minerals relieves muscular spasm and increases the circulation - leaving your skin soft and glowing. There are also studies on the positive effects of seaweed on other health conditions, including menopause relief and prevention of birth defects.

Seaweed and algae are also able to stimulate the production of collagen in the body, having purging, draining, metabolism-accelerating and re-mineralizing properties. It can enhance the immune system, increase vitality and also protect against damage from free radicals.

Seaweed/ marine algae in the spa industry

Tired & droopy eyes – What it is and how to remedy it

2009-03-24T04:54:00.000-07:00

I was giving a technical presentation to a client some days ago and was pausing to take in what a question he was asking me when suddenly, I realized that I could not keep my eyelids open wide enough to pass as being attentive. I could not help it although I did try to force my eyes open – it was just manners, I thought, until it became apparent I was coming on too fake. It wasn’t as though I did not have enough sleep or anything. My eyes were just…exhausted, much more than my mind actually was. What a patch it put me through really.

Tired and droopy eyes are quite a common occurrence in today’s world, especially with sky rocketing demands and pressures, handling daily routines at the work place as well as at home. Many people like me, who face the idiot box day in day out and pore through stacks of paper work, experience this condition. Although it is not something extremely severe, it should be given due attention as vision might be affected and you could experience blurry or double vision.

So what causes tired eyes? Quite sensibly, the main cause of tired eyes is eye strain and the lack of sleep. Eye strain can be caused by excessive reading in dim light, staring into the computer screen or video monitor for very long hours and etc. Other causes include allergy, exposure to bright light or glare, straining to see in very dim light, dehydration, sinus problems, heredity, hormonal fluctuations, fatigue, conjunctivitis, excessive crying, inadequate supply of oxygen to the cornea and pollution or extremely dirty air.

What are the symptoms of tired eyes? The most significant one would be as I’ve experienced with my client some days back – very heavy eyelids and this can sometimes come with a burning sensation – kind of like the feeling you get after swimming in chlorinated pool without your goggles on. Your eyes might get red, sore and irritated. In worse cases, it might get itchy and watery, with an increased photosensitivity, or sensitivity to bright lights. If tired eyes are not treated and left to prolong, then a heavy sensation in the head, a headache or a sore neck might develop, along with affected vision like blur sights or double visions.

All these symptoms will in the end result in puffy eyes. All the squinting and rubbing will lead to additional stress to the sensitive eye areas, causing crows feet and wrinkles to form. The eye area is after all the most delicate area in your body.

Today, we have some immediate remedies that are quite convenient and can be carried around in your bag or pocket – eye drops that have ingredients like witch hazel extract that can revitalize and soothe tired eyes. This is a temporary measure however and does not completely heal tired eyes.

There are some natural ways to treat tired eyes in the comfort of your home. These steps are so simple anyone could do it. If the skin is particularly sensitive, perform a skin test before trying these home remedies. Simply test the skin by placing a small amount of a questionable ingredient on the wrist or forearm, and if irritation or redness develops, wash the area and consider a different option.

Ancient Remedies Your Grandmother Would Probably Prescribe To You:

1) A Classic Remedy in a Spoon or Two
One of the simplest and easiest ways prescribed to cure tired eyes is by using two cold spoons that have been previously placed into the freezer. Be cautious not to freeze the spoons otherwise you might aggravate the sensitive skin around your eyes. Place the cold spoons under your eyes to reduce the puffiness.

2) Teabags
The traditional method would be to take plain tea bags and soak them before applying them to your eyes. The setback of this is that people with very light or sensitive skin may notice stains around their eyes from the tannin in the tea. One way to prevent this is by using chamomile tea bags which works better since chamomile is not a dark tea and it is a herb well known for its soothing properties. The other choice would be to use jasmine tea bags. If you’re worried tea bags will dehydrate the area around your eyes, you could just dip a cotton ball into a tea solution and place them under your eyes. This works as well.

3) Fruity and Veggie Wonders
Two of the most well-known and effective natural remedies for tired and puffy eyes are strawberries and cucumber slices.

Just place a strawberry straight out of the fridge under your eyes to reduce puffiness and tiredness. A cool strawberry under the eye is one of the most used methods to battle tired eyes.

The cucumber slices are especially great to make exhausted eyes appear bright and radiant because they have high water content. A slice of ice cold cucumber straight from the fridge can work wonders to reduce under eye swelling. All you need to do is cut thick slices of cucumber and place them into the fridge. When they are nice and cold, just find a place to relax, lie down and unwind with a slice of cold cucumber over each eye for about 10-15 minutes or until the cucumber becomes warm.

Besides that, an Italian veggie called the zucchini can also be used to reduce puffiness. You could mix cucumber or zucchini with fresh wet ginger root, and this works even better. Dice the vegetables into pieces and mix with the fresh ginger, lightly mash the two ingredients together with a fork and place the mashed mixture on your eyes for up to five minutes and then sit back and marvel at the results!

Using any veggies like cucumber and zucchini on your eyes will work better if the treatment is slightly cooled, but not ice cold. The coldness will help with the puffiness much the same way an ice pack helps with swelling. Placing the veggies in the fridge before slicing them and using them while still cold helps.

4) Water
Another effective and free method to cure tired eyes would be to wash frequently with cold water. This refreshes the eyes and certainly will help you relax while removing any kind of tiredness.

5) Milk
You could also use cotton balls dipped in cold milk and place it over your eyelids. This also helps remove all the puffiness. Milk also has a slight lightening effect that works wonders on dark eye circles.

6) Lavender oil
Similarly, you could soak cotton balls with water added with a few drops of lavender oil and place them over your eyelids. Lavender oils are famous for their soothing, relaxing and anti-stress properties.

Dead Sea Salts in Spa, Skincare and Body care – The Thallaso Concept

2009-03-22T03:36:00.000-07:00

Dead Sea bath salts are very widely used in the spa and beauty industry because of their uniqueness. The waters of the Dead Sea have a total salt concentration that is 10 times higher than ocean water, reaching 33 % versus 3 %. But that is not all. The composition of the brines is also unique, comprising magnesium, potassium and calcium, in addition to a high concentration of bromides. The Dead Sea is known as the saltiest body of water in the world compared to any other oceans, lakes and seas. Thus it is the richest in minerals compared to any other regular sea salts. This gave rise to its name, the Dead Sea – due to the fact that nothing can survive here – no fish nor plants.

The sea is a very rich source of therapeutic ingredients, giving birth to the Thallaso concept.

The Dead Sea salt, unlike regular salt, is not edible and tastes a little bitter to the taste largely due to the low sodium content and the high presence of other minerals. These minerals which are present in the salt are also naturally present within our skin cells, but here in our skin, it gets depleted quite quickly due to external factors and aging and this can cause severe dryness, wrinkle formation and dull looking skin. When Dead Sea bath salts or products containing them are used, these essential minerals are fed back into the skin cells, thus improving the overall health and vitality of the skin.

Dead Sea Salt is known to release the toxic agents from tissue, improve the blood circulation and regulate the pH value of the tissue. Metabolic slag, harmful acids, urea and albumen are being discharged naturally - leaving the skin and body free to regenerate. Sea Salt helps to strengthen the resistance of the skin, whilst maintaining the delicate water balance and additionally acts as an antiseptic. It naturally keeps the skin youthful, radiant and smooth.

This extraordinary chemical composition has made the Dead Sea an ideal spot for people seeking relief from skin and rheumatic disorders like psoriasis & eczema, and equally a popular choice for vacationers seeking relaxation since time immemorial. In fact, this soothing, miracle-working water have a reputation that dates back over 2000 years when the Roman historian Flavius noted “The Dead Sea cannot be praised too highly…travelers take this salt home because it heals the human body and is therefore used in many medicines.”

Even Cleopatra, the mother of all ancient beauties famed for her magically youthful looks throughout her whole life used it as one of her beauty regimes. It was said that the real secret to the beauty of her smooth and silky skin was due to the anti aging effect of bath salts, mud and cosmetics made with Dead Sea salt which was gathered for her at the factories she had built on the shores of the sea. The ruins of those factories can still be seen today at Erin Brooke and Erin Geed and they stand as testimonials to the ageless beauty power of Dead Sea bath salt.

Application of Dead Sea salt in spa is widespread and is getting more and more popular in the world today and this is not limited by geography anymore. While not everyone who wants to enjoy the healing and beautifying effects of the Dead Sea salts was able to afford the time and money used to travel to the Dead Sea in the distant past, this is not a problem any longer. In recent times, people are luckier due to the wonders of transportation. The Dead Sea salt is imported from Israel/ Jordan to bring the Dead Sea effects back to your own bath tubs. Most of the salts are mixed with essential oils and may come in different sizes, scents and colors. It is doused into bathtubs, hot tubs, Jacuzzi and pools, enabling people from all over the globe to experience for themselves how therapeutic it is to take a dip in the legendary waters of the Dead Sea.

Dead Sea Salt with Rose petals

Natural facial masks from your own kitchen - your skin's best friends

2009-03-22T01:26:00.000-07:00

Here are some traditional recipes for masks that have survived the test of time based on skin type:

Acne, Blemishes, Blackheads, Oily/ Impure skin

1) Lemon Tomato Mask
Use this on oily skin. The acid in the tomato and lemon will work on acne and blackheads.

Ingredients:
- 1 over-ripe tomato; inside scooped and mashed
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon instant oatmeal

Instructions:
Puree all ingredients in a blender. Apply to freshly cleaned face and leave on for 15 minutes. Wash off with warm water and pat dry.

2) Carrots and Honey Facial Mask
Use this on normal to oily skin.

Ingredients:
- 2-3 large carrots; cooked and mashed
- 4 1/2 tablespoons honey

Instructions:
Stir ingredients together. Apply to freshly cleaned face - do not massage in - and leave on for 10 minutes. Wash off with warm water and pat dry.

3) Yoghurt mask
Use this on oily skin.

Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon brewer’s yeast
- Plain yoghurt

Instructions:
Mix 1 tablespoon brewer’s yeast with plain yogurt to make a thin mixture. Apply it thoroughly into all the oily areas and leave for 15 - 20 minutes. Rinse with warm water, and then use cold water to close the pores.

4) Albumen lemon honey mask
Use this on oily skin.

Ingredients:
· ½ tablespoon lemon juice
· 1 egg white
· 1 tablespoon honey
· 2 strawberries
· 2-3 drops eucalyptus or jojoba oil (optional)

Instructions:
Blend all the ingredients together and apply thoroughly on all oily areas. Leave for 20-30 minutes. Rinse with warm water and then use cold water to close the pores.

5) Orange Yogurt Facial Mask
Use this mask for deep pore cleansing.

Ingredients:
- 1 table spoon plain yogurt
- The juice of 1/4 of an orange

Instructions:
Stir to mix and then dip fingers into mixture and smooth onto face. The sensation is both cool and relaxing. Leave on for a five minutes and then rinse. If you are feeling sluggish, this is the perfect mask for you. The yogurt will cleanse and nourish. The orange is full of Vitamin C and AHA's.

6) Strawberry Lemon Mask
This mask is excellent for oily skin.

Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 egg whites
- 3 tablespoon honey
- 1 cup strawberries

Instructions:
Blend the ingredients well with a blender. Apply to freshly cleaned face and leave on for 10 minutes. Wash off with warm water and pat dry.

7) Baking soda mask
To loosen blackheads, combine equal parts baking soda and water in your hand and rub gently on your skin for 2 to 3 minutes. Rinse with warm water.

Wrinkles, sagging, dry

1) Chocolate Facial Mask
This moisturizing mask smells so good you'll be tempted to eat it rather than wear it. It is a great remedy for dry and dehydrated skin.

Ingredients:
- 1 Tablespoon cocoa powder
- 1 Tablespoon heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon cottage cheese
- 4 teaspoon honey
- 1 teaspoon oatmeal

Instructions:
Puree all ingredients in a blender. Apply to freshly cleaned face and leave on for 10 minutes. Wash off with warm water and pat dry.

2) Milk Mask
This mask is excellent for dry skin.

Ingredients:
- 1 teaspoon powdered milk
- 1 tablespoon runny honey
- 1 teaspoon aloe vera gel
- 2 drops essential oil of choice
- 1 tablespoon of pulverized almonds

Instructions:
Mix the ingredients well. Apply to freshly cleaned face and leave on for 15 minutes. Wash off with warm water and pat dry.

3) Avocado Facial Mask

Ingredients:
- 1/2 Avocado

Instructions:
Mash avocado and apply evenly to your face. Leave it on for 15-20 minutes. Rinse off with cool water or soft wash cloth.

4) Honey Facial Mask

Ingredients:
- 3 tablespoons of honey

Instructions:
Rinse your face with warm water to open up the pores. Apply honey and leave for half an hour. Rinse with warm water, then use cold water to close the pores. Rinse with warm water, and then use cold water to close the pores.

5) Banana Mask
Use this for wrinkles.

Ingredients:
- ¼ banana

Instructions:
Mash 1/4 banana until very creamy and apply on face and leave for 15-20 minutes. Rinse with warm water, and then use cold water to close the pores.

6) Anti-ageing face mask

Ingredients:
- 1 avocado (flesh)
- ½ of an orange juice
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon molasses
- 4-5 drops essential oils

Instructions:
Blend all the ingredients to become a puree. Apply on face and leave for 15-20 minutes. Rinse with warm water, and then use cold water to close the pores.

7) Homemade Facial mask for ageing or maturing skin
Use this to soften wrinkle lines. This mask is excellent for maturing skin.

Ingredients:
- 3 tablespoons of sugar
- 4 tablespoons of warm water

Instructions:
Dissolve the sugar in the water. Spread all over wrinkles. Leave on for 10 minutes and then wash off.

8) Apricot milk mask

Ingredients:
- 1 cup of dried apricots
- 2 tablespoons of skimmed milk powder
- Water

Instructions:
Soak 1 cup dried apricots in water until softened. Puree in blender or food processor with 2 tablespoons skim milk powder. Apply to face and let set about 15 minutes. Gently wipe off with a damp wash cloth.

Dark, dull skin

1) Banana Oatmeal Mask
Bananas have fruit acids that help slough off dead skin. This facial energizes the complexion and makes your face feel great.

Ingredients:
- 1 medium to large Banana; soft and peeled
- 1/3 to 1/2 cup oatmeal(depends on the size of the banana)

Instructions:
Mash the oatmeal into the soft peeled banana a little at a time. Continue until all of the oatmeal is moistened. Apply to your face evenly, leaving it on for 15-20 minutes. Rinse off with warm water or soft wash cloth.

2) Lemon albumen mask

Ingredients:
· ½ lemon
· 1 egg white

Instructions:
Squeeze half a lemon and mix the juice with one beaten egg white. Apply on your face and leave for overnight. Wash your face with warm water.

3) Cucumber Face Pack
Use this for a smoother skin tone.

Ingredients:
- 1 cucumber
- 1 tablespoon of sugar

Instructions:
Mash 1 whole cucumber, strain water, add 1 tablespoon of sugar and mix well. Put in a container, keep it refrigerated and take out whenever you want to use it. Apply on your face and leave for 10 minutes, then wash with cold water and enjoy the smoothness of your skin. You can try on it on other parts of body as a scrub.

4) Cucumber and Yogurt Facial Mask

Ingredients:
- 1/2 cucumber
- 1 tablespoon yogurt

Instructions:
Puree cucumber and yogurt in a blender; apply to your face evenly. Leave it on for 15-20 minutes. Rinse off with cool water or soft wash cloth.

5) Papaya Facial Mask
Use this as a non-abrasive mask for gentle exfoliation. Papaya contains a strong enzyme called papain which dissolves oil and dead skin cells.

Ingredients:
Papaya

Instructions:
Peel and remove seeds. Chop into pieces and drop into food processor. Puree until papaya is the consistency of baby food. Use 1/2 a tablespoon for each facial. Keep leftovers in a bag and place it in a fridge.

6) Apple Facial Mask
Get rid of those dead skins cells with this mask.

Ingredients:
- 1/4 of an apple
- 1 teaspoon of honey
- 1 tablespoon of oatmeal

Instructions:
Put all the ingredients into a blender and blend well. Then apply it to your face. Leave on for 10 minutes and then rinse off.

7) Almond Facial Mask

Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon almonds
- 1 tablespoon of honey
- 1 egg white

Instructions:
Grind 1 tablespoon almonds into a fine meal in a blender or food processor. Mix almond meal together with 1 tablespoon honey and 1 egg white. Apply to face and let set for about 15 minutes. Gently wipe off with a damp wash cloth.

Chapped or sunburnt skin

1) Yoghurt & Oatmeal Mask
Use this on irritated skin, like a sunburned face or shoulders.

Ingredients:
- 1 cup plain yoghurt
- ½ cup oatmeal
- 2 drops of jasmine essential oil (optional)

Instructions:
Mix 1 cup plain yogurt and ½ cup oatmeal and apply to the skin for 15 minutes. Gently wipe off with a damp wash cloth and rinse.

Masks & Muds - What it does for your skin and body

2009-03-22T01:02:00.000-07:00

For those who are beauty fanatics, masks – whether for facial or body are very common. It is part of the beauty regime for most women, and some men. Why are masks so popular today and what do they do for your skin?

Masks can come in many forms – cream masks, muds, rubber (peel off) masks, clay masks, and natural masks – like fruit and vegetable purees or other ingredients like oatmeal and egg whites (albumen), etc. The main function of a mask is to make the skin smoother, provide deep cleansing and enhance skin radiance. Most masks today come with additional benefits – like anti-ageing, whitening, anti-stretch, uplifting, de-stressing, relaxing and so forth, with new and trendy active ingredients added into the mask or more recently, essential oils with different functions.

What kinds of masks are suitable for your skin type?

Cream masks – this is usually used for normal to dry skin as it does not dry up completely and absorb moisture from the skin surface. After leaving the mask on for half an hour or more, it could just be wiped off before cleansing the face.

Clays and muds are usually used for more oily and acne-prone skin. It is better at removing impurities and usually promotes a pore minimizing effect. Usually this type of mask is used over gauze to facilitate easier peel off. Or on the contrary, it could just be washed off with water over a sink. Like most other masks, it is left on for half an hour or more.

Rubber/ peel off masks – these are suitable for all skin types. It is also easy to apply and fuss-free. Usually comes in powder form and is mixed with either toner or water. It is applied on the face for half and hour or more, and in the end, it is just peeled off by hand.

Paper masks – paper masks are very popular today. They usually consist of a piece of tissue cut to fit the shape of your face, dipped in a solution of active ingredients, for example for whitening, anti-aging, anti-wrinkle or relaxing. It is quite fuss-free – just spread it onto your face and leave it there for half an hour or more before peeling it off and disposing it.

Natural masks – fruit and vegetable purees can also be used as a mask and have been practiced since time immemorial. This is based on the belief that what is good for your body has to be good for your skin too – or food for your skin. Many fruits and vegetables that can be found in your kitchen actually contains the active ingredients that can remedy many types of skin ailments like acne, oily skin, dry skin, chapped skin, etc. For different types of natural mask recipes, click here.

What are the ingredients most commonly used in masks today?

Many spas actually adopt the Thallaso or the oceanic concept. Here, seaweed/ algae masks or the Dead Sea muds are very popular nowadays because of the minerals contained in these ingredients. For more info on Dead Sea Mud, click here. Seaweed and algae have been used in the cosmetics and spa industry for centuries because of their proven benefits. To know more about what seaweed and algae can do for your skin and wellbeing, click here.

Besides that, most masks usually contain vitamins, fruit extracts and other active ingredients that serve their respective purposes. Essential oils are usually added for the extra benefit, for example, tea tree oil and lavender for anti acne or blemishes, chamomile for soothing, rose for anti ageing and so forth.

Dos and Don’ts of Masks

It is advised that masks are best used once or twice in a week for the best results. Make sure that your face and neck and hands are properly cleaned before applying a mask. When making a natural mask, be sure that it is done in as much a hygienic way as possible – you are putting organic stuff on your face and contamination could cause an infection or breakouts on your skin. Masks are usually spread on the face without touching the eyes unless it is stated otherwise. Firming masks/ masks with whitening ingredients may cause itch to the sensitive eye area.

Cranberries in treating the Honeymooner’s disease (Urinary Tract Infection, UTI)

2009-03-15T02:10:00.000-07:00

Have you ever felt the sensation of passing urine all the time although you may not have much urine to pass? Or have you ever felt discomfort and pain or a burning sensation at your lower abdomen (urethra) along with cloudy and foul-smelling urine? High chances are that you would be advised by your doctor you have a condition known as urinary tract infection (UTI). The Wikepedia states that a urinary tract infection (UTI) is a bacterial infection that affects any part of the urinary tract. Although urine contains a variety of fluids, salts, and waste products, it usually does not have bacteria in it. When bacteria gets into the bladder or kidney and multiply in the urine, they cause a UTI.

The reason why I thought it essential to share this is due to the fact that although it is highly common in occurrence, many people, especially the younger generation are quite unaware of this condition. I’ve had some friends who worried themselves silly over the symptoms, some in silence because they were not sure what had hit them and thought it a little too embarrassing to ask anyone until the situation was too serious and they had to go to the doctor’s. Granted, I could understand where they were coming from. After all, it is most rampant in sexually active women and many perceive it to be some kind of sexual disease. No wonder my own mother called it the Honeymooner’s disease. Thus, it is of utmost importance to be able to identify UTIs before it got to the extent that the patient develops a fever, cold sweats and shaking chills.

For not so serious cases, usually the traditional treatment would be to drink lots of fluids to clear the urinary tract and here as well, the function of cranberries is well-known. Since I was touching on the uses of cranberries in the oral care industry earlier, perhaps it helps to mention that the anti-adhesion effect of cranberries in our body system works just the same way here. If the bacteria that causes UTIs cannot stick to the urinary tract, this would prevent the condition from getting worse. In fact, the first scientific findings on cranberry were related to urinary tract health. Here are some published papers on the matter:

Your natural traditional remedy to UTIs

1) MARCH 1994 – JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN MEDICAL ASSOCIATION
Harvard Medical School researchers conduct the first well-controlled large-scale clinical trial to demonstrate that drinking cranberry juice regularly significantly reduced the presence of bacteria in the urine. The researchers found that the effect was not because of more acidic urine (the urine of the cranberry juice drinkers was no more acidic than those drinking a non-cranberry placebo drink) and speculated that there was something specific in cranberry that prevented bacteria from adhering to the urinary tract. This research was conducted with 153 women, average age of 78, using a cranberry juice cocktail that contained 27 percent cranberry juice.

2) JUNE 2002 – CANADIAN JOURNAL OF UROLOGY
A University of British Columbia urologist found use of cranberry juice and tablets with incrased fluid intake are more effective than fluids alone in preventing UTIs in women studied. Forty percent fewer women experienced UTIs when receiving cranberry products vs placebo, and an average had half the number of UTIs. Antibiotic use was less in the cranberry group vs placebo. The researcher recommended that cranberry products be offered as an option in the management of recurrent UTIs.

3) SEPTEMBER 2005 – PHYTOCHEMISTRY
In a human study comparing the anti-adhesion effect of Cranberry Juice versus other foods that contain proanthocyanins (PACs), researchers reported that cranberry juice inhibited bacteria binding, whereas grape and apple juices, green tea and chocolate did not produce this anti-adhesion activity. In addition, cranberry PACs were found to have a unique structural feature, which may account for this specific microbial anti-adhesion property.

4) OCTOBER 2005 – JOURNAL OF ALTERNATIVE AND COMPLEMENTARY MEDICINE
Researchers at Brigham and Women’s Hospital found that dried cranberries may offer an anti-adhesion mechanism that may protect the body from the bacteria that cause urinary tract infections. Sweeted dried cranberries were compared to a control and raisin samples. Increased bacterial anti-adhesion activity was found in the urine of participants who had consumed sweetened dried cranberries but not in the urine of those who had consumed raisins.

5) FEBRUARY 2006 – BIOTECHNOLOGY AND BIOENGINEERING
Researcers from Worcester Polytechnic Institute describe the ability of cranberry PACs to alter the shape of certain E. coli bacteria that cause Urinary Tract Infection. This effect is proposed as one way cranberry PACs can disable bacteria.

6) JUNE 2007 – JOURNAL OF UROLOGY
Researchers from Yale University, University of Washington, and Rutgers University collaborated to study the anti-adhesion effect of cranberry on primary cultured bladder cells and vaginal cells. The findings confirm the ability of cranberry to inhibit E. coli binding to these cells in a dose-dependent manner, further supporting the anti-adhesion mechanism of cranberry in preventing UTIs.

What this means to you as a consumer:
Cranberry juices, tablets, or dried cranberry fruits can be used to prevent urinary tract infections, better than just using fluids alone. If your condition is not that serious and you don’t want to have to use antibiotics to treat it, you could try this natural option first. If in the end, this doesn’t work, you could try running to a local pharmacy for a dose of Citraverscent sachets (ask your pharmacists for their recommendation). Citraverscent increases the alkali reserve in the urinary tract and renders the urine less acidic. It is one of the most prescribed remedy for UTIs.

Wholesome goodness in the form of a berry

References:

1) Avorn J, Monane M, Gurwitz JH, Glynn RJ, Choodnovskiy I, Lipsitz LA, Reduction of Bacteriuria and Pyuria after ingestion of cranberry juice. JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN MEDICAL ASSOCIATION 1994; 271:751-754
2) Stothers L, A randomized trial to evaluate effectiveness and cost effectiveness of naturopathic cranberry products as prophylaxis against urinary tract infection in women. CANADIAN JOURNAL OF UROLOGY 2002; 9:1558-1562
3) Howell AB, Reed JD, Krueger CG, Winterbottom R, Cunningham DG, Leahy M. A-type cranberry proanthocyanidins and uropathogenic bacterial anti-adhesion activity. PHYTOCHEMISTRY 2005; 66:2281-2291
4) Greenberg JA, Newmann SJ, Howell AB, Consumption of sweetened dried cranberries versus unsweetened raisins for inhibiton of uropathogenic Escherichia coli adhesion in human urine: A pilot study. JOURNAL OF ALTERNATIVE AND COMPLEMENTARY MEDICINE
5) Liu Y, Black MA, Caron L, Camesano TA. Role of cranberry juice on molecular-scale surface characteristics and adhesion behavior of Escherichia coli. BIOTECHNOLOGY AND BIOENGINEERING
6) Gupta K, Chou MY, Howell AB, Wobbe C, Grady R, Stapleton AE. Cranberry products inhibit adherence of P-fimbriated Escherichia coli to primary cultured bladder and vaginal epithelial cells. JOURNAL OF UROLOGY

Cranberries in the Personal Care & Toiletries market – why cranberries?

2009-03-15T01:59:00.000-07:00

Lately, there have been quite a few enquiries in the personal care market about cranberries, specifically in the toiletries market, which piqued my interest quite a bit since it is my field and thus, my business to know why. Yes, I’ve heard about cranberries being the ‘it’ trend right now in the health care industry – I’ve noticed cartons of cranberry juices and packets of dried cranberry fruits flooding our hypermarket shelves and penetrating the consumer’s market since months back, and it seems as though the little red fruit was here to stay.

Cranberry bogs - at their natural habitat

Cranberry harvest

Cranberry fruits

But cranberries in the personal care & toiletries segment? That is not very new, especially at our shores. I’m speaking specifically about the oral care industry. More and more manufacturers are working on including cranberries into their oral care products – be it in toothpastes, mouth gargles, floss or even chewing gums. And so, to better advise the clients, I did my own research on the topic and found many interesting studies carried out on cranberries in oral care.

1) March 2004 – FEMS MICROBIOLOGY LETTERS
A preliminary human study performed in Israel found that 6 weeks of daily use of a mouthwash supplemented with a cranberry extract led to a significant decrease of certain oral pathogens (Streptococcus mutans) as well as reducing the total bacterial count compared to placebo.

2) December 2006 – CARIES RESEARCH
Researchers at the Center of Oral Biology and Eastman Department of Dentistry, University of Rochester Medical Center found that cranberry juice inhibited adherence of Streptococcus mutans to surfaces by 40-85 percent compared to the control. Cranberry juice also inhibited glucan-mediated biofilm development and acid production. These finding indicate cranberry juice holds promise as a natural product to prevent biofilm-related oral diseases.

3) FEBRUARY 2007 – JOURNAL OF PERIODONTAL RESEARCH
Continuing precious research, Bodet and colleagues at Laval University report that cranberry extract inhibits several enzyme activities associated with periodontal disease, suggesting a role for cranberry components in its treatment.

4) APRIL 2007 – EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF ORAL SCIENCES
Cranberry juice concentrate was found to inhibit the inflammatory response of two major cell types in gum tissue. This dental research provides an opportunity to build on cranberry’s anti-inflammatory properties and support the treatment of periodontitis.

What does this mean to you?
Chewing on cranberry fruits (natural or dried) can actually save you a lot of pain from toothaches and visits to the dentist due to cavities. Its anti-adhesion benefit due to a component called Proanthocyanins or PACs in the fruit just means that the bad bacteria associated with tooth decay (Streptococcus mutans) are unable to adhere to the teeth, thus cannot cause tooth decay. Also, cranberry juice can inhibit the enzyme that forms plaque on your teeth. Thus, it promotes a healthier oral cavity for you! This is the reason why I’m quite sure you’ll be seeing more of this little red fruit in your oral care products in the near future.

A cranberry coated floss

References:

1) Weiss EI, Kozlovsky A, Steinberg D, Greenstein RBN, Feldman M, Sharon N, Ofek I, A High Molecular Mass cranberry constituent reduces mutans Streptococci level in saliva and inhibits in vitro adhesion to hydroxypatite. FEMS MICROBILOGY LETTERS 2004;,232 (1): 89-92

2) Koo H, Nino De Guzman P, Schobel BD, Vacca Smith AVV, Bowen WH., Influence of cranberry juice on glucan-mediated processes involved in Streptococcus mutans biofilm development. CARIES RESEARCH 2006; 40:20-27

3) Bodet, C, Chandad F, Grenier D, Inhibition of Host extracellular matrix destructive enzyme production and activity by a high-molecular weight cranberry fraction. JOURNAL OF PERIODONTAL RESEARCH 2007; 42:159-168

4)Bodet, C, Chandad F, Grenier D, Inhibit Interleukin-6, Interleukin-9 and prostaglandin E2 production by lipopolysaccharide-activated gingival fibroblasts. European Journal of Oral Sciences 2007; 115:64-70

Dead Sea Mud, your miraculous beauty & health solution!

2009-03-04T05:06:00.000-08:00

There are many types of masks and mud packs in the market today – too many, in fact. From the whole big range of mud products and masks, the Dead Sea Mud is no longer considered new in the picture, having been established as one of the miracle beauty products from nature since time immemorial - even Cleopatra is rumoured to have used it! This is the reason why so many people all around the world steadily flock to the Dead Sea every year – to seek a cure for the many conditions that no other ingredients could remedy as effectively.

An example of a Dead Sea Mud mask

Just a little introduction on the origin of the mud: The Dead Sea was geographically formed 3 million years ago when a small fracture occurred amidst the Jordan rift valley. The Dead Sea is situated 400m below sea level which makes it the deepest point on earth. Sea water rushed in and was collected in this fracture. The dry climate and high rate of evaporation gradually increased the concentration of minerals in the water. Salt, chalk and gypsum precipitated all along the length of this fracture eventually resulting in lake-like formation. This lake eventually ended its relationship with the sea to become a landlocked lake. Nowadays, it continues to be fed by the Jordan River and numerous mineral springs that pour into it from the adjoining mountains.

Part of the Dead Sea - the Jordanian side

The Dead Sea is famed for being the saltiest water in the whole world - six times saltier than an ocean! That's why you can easily float in it...like this man right here.

The Dead Sea Mud is actually sediment of the Dead Sea consisting of a natural blend of minerals and organic materials formed over millions of years. Also called pelloid, the rich mineral mud proved to be highly beneficial for therapeutic as well as cosmetic treatments. The mud is an alluvial deposit containing organic animal and plant remains (algae) with a mixture of salts and minerals from the Dead Sea Lake. The mineral composition of the mud consists of non – soluble tiny grains off silicates and carbonates with a high level of soluble mineral solution between the grains. This solution is similar to that of Dead Sea brine, and also contains bituminous substances and hormones originating from the algae. Unlike the sea brine, the mud also contains sulfide compounds from biological sources.

Her secret beauty regime...

Here comes the interesting part – specifically what this mud does for your skin! It contains 26 minerals and trace elements, including; Magnesium, Potassium, Calcium, Bromine, Sulphate, Lithium, Strontium, Iodine, Iron, Chromium and Zinc.

Listed are the known functions of these respective minerals:

1. Magnesium
Known for its anti-allergic influence on the skin and promoting healing processes

2. Bromide
Known for its soothing, relaxing and tranquilizing actions on the nervous system

3. Iodine
Important for the correct functioning of the thyroid gland and a vital factor in the body’s metabolic exchanges

4. Sulfur
A natural disinfectant

5. Potassium
A moisture regulator

6. Zinc Oxide
A natural sun block known for its soothing and anti-inflammatory effects

7. Magnesium Carbonate
Improves tissue structure and tightens the skin

It also treats a wide range of symptoms like pimples, acne, eczema, dermatitis, psoriasis, athlete’s foot, chilblains, rash, arthritis, rheumatism and even muscle stiffness.

Dead Sea Mud for the active ones...

So how do we use this mud? Simple – use it just as it is! Or if it is in powdered form just mix with water or toner. It is commonly used for mud packs and is ideal for smearing directly onto the face and body.

The Dead Sea mineral mud has also been found to be very efficient for a wide range of rheumatic ailments. The mud absorbs large amounts of water which gives it considerable degree of elasticity. Dead Sea Mud’s special heat retaining feature allows it to be applied to the skin at relatively high temperatures for longer periods of time. It takes, for example, about 14 minutes for this mud to drop from 18 degrees to 17 degrees. Thus, the Dead Sea Mud can be applied on the body at relatively high temperatures (about 40 degrees Celsius). This helps to stimulate blood and lymph circulation, therefore promoting the flow of oxygen to the skin helping to regenerate skin cells. Besides, these minerals also help to remove toxins from the skin. And they actually have a soothing anti-allergic and anti-drying effect on problem skin as well. Consequently these minerals promote body health.

Dead Sea Mud is used for therapy

Pelotherapy – a therapeutic spa treatment

Just for information’s sake, only in the Dead Sea region, there are mineral mud treatments offered as part of a spa package. This treatment is called pelotherapy. Therapeutic treatment includes covering the body in 5-10 kilos of heated mud for a duration of 20-30 minutes. The heat is slowly conducted to the joints and limbs, easing muscles and relaxing the body. The rich black mud stimulates blood circulation, maintains skin moisture and eases ailing joints. Too bad this is not available in our country – imagine 5-10 kilos of mud in our local spa – yes, it can bloody well get quite messy!

Dead Sea Mud jacuzzi for the healthier skin!

Essential Oils - Function, Properties & Use

2009-03-01T23:39:00.000-08:00

Here’s a list of essential oils, their respective functions and properties, along with a guide on how to use them/ what other oils to blend them with for a synergistic effect. For ways of how to use them, please refer to the previous entry.

Basil (Osymum basilicum)

Treatment:
Bronchitis, Headache, Migraine, Degestive Aid, Mouth Ulcer, Gum Infection

Properties:
Insect Repellent, Anti-depressant, Skin Care, Aphrodisiac, Antiseptic, Stomachic-digestive, Hair Tonic

How to use:
Hot Compress, Bath, Massage, Vaporise, Cold Compress, Mouth wash

Blend with:
Lavender, Geranium, Bergamot

Bergamot (Citrus bergamia)

Treatment:
Cystitis, Anxiety, Skincare, Urethritis, Appetite Regulator, Digestive Aid, Acne

Properties:
Anti-depressant, Skincare, Antiseptic, Bactericide, Stomachic-digestive, Relaxant, Deodorant

How to use:
Hot Compress, Bath, Massage, Vaporise, Local Wash

Blend with:
Cypress, Neroli, Jasmine

Black Pepper (Piper nigrum)

Treatment:
Digestive tract, Antispasmodic, Kidneys, Muscle pain, Stiff joints, Anaemia

Properties:
Aphrodisiac, Antiseptic, Stomachic-digestive, Relaxant, Tonic

How to use:
Massage

Blend with:
Rosemary, Marjoram, Lavender

Cajeput (Melaleuca leucodendron)

Treatment:
Infection, Cold, Catarrh, Sinusitis, Headache, Pain killing, Sore throats

Properties:
Insect Repellent, Skin care, Bactericide, Antiseptic, Stomachic-digestive

How to use:
Inhalations, Mouthwash, Hot compress, Cold compress

Blend with:
Lavender to balance

Cedarwood (Cedrus atlantica)

Treatment:
Antiseptic, Bronchitis, Catarrh, Cystitis, Urinal and Vaginal Infections

Properties:
Aphrodisiac, Hair/Scalp tonic, Insect repellent, Skincare, Antiseptic, Tonic, Relaxant, Meditation Aid

How to use:
Inhalations, Local wash, Bath, Cold compress, Massage, Vaporise

Blend with:
Bergamot, Jasmine, Juniper, Sandalwood

Chamomile (Anthemis nobilis)

Treatment:
Anti-inflammatory, Insomnia, Sprains, Stomach Upsets, Eyes, Earaches, Hair, Soothing

Properties:
Anti-depressant, Hair/scalp tonic, Skincare, Antiseptic, Tonic, Bactericide, Stomachic-digestive, Relaxant

How to use:
Hot compress, Bath, Vaporise, Mouthwash, Inhalations, Massage, Local wash

Blend with:
Melissa, Lavender, Rose, Cedarwood

Clary Sage (Salvia sclarea)

Treatment:
Muscle relaxant, Asthma, Digestive tonic, Stress, Tension, Menstrual Cramps

Properties:
Anti-depressant, Skincare, Aphrodisiac, Antiseptic, Tonic, Deodorant, Stomachic-digestive, Relaxant

How to use:
Cold compress, Inhalations, Mouthwash, Massage, Local wash, Bath, Vaporise

Blend with:
Sandalwood, Lavender, Cypress, Orange

Coriander (Coriandrum sativum)

Treatment:
Stimulates appetite, Analgesic, Rheumatic pains, Flatulence, Aids digestion

Properties:
Aphrodisiac, Stomachic-digestive, Relaxant, Tonic

How to use:
Massage, Bath

Blend with:
Bergamot, Neroli, Rose, Geranium

Cypress (Cypressus semperirens)

Treatment:
Astrigent, Antiseptic, Asthma, Menstrual Regulation, Foot odour, Circulation, Haemorrhoids

Properties:
Insect repellent, Skincare, Relaxant, Tonic, Deodorant, Antiseptic

How to use:
Bath, Massage, Cold compress, Vaporise, Local wash

Blend with:
Bergamot, Juniper, Pine, Lemon

Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus globulus)

Treatment:
Decongestant, Antiviral, Colds, Influenza, Antiseptic, Wounds, Burns, Muscular pain

Properties:
Skincare, Hair/scalp tonic, Insect repellent, Antiseptic, Bactericide, Deodorant

How to use:
Massage, Mouthwash, Bath, Inhalations, Hot compress, Cold compress

Blend with:
Chamomile, Lavender, Thyme, Bergamot

Fennel (Feoniculum vulgare)

Treatment:
Carminative, Digestive, Diuretic, Regulates mentrual cycle, Flatulence, Detoxifying

Properties:
Skincare, Antiseptic, Tonic, Stomachic-digestive, Relaxant

How to use:
Massage, Mouthwash, Bath

Blend with:
Rose, Sandalwood, Juniper

Frankincense (Boswellia carteri)

Treatment:
Respiratory infections, Soothing, Anxiety, Uterine tonic

Properties:
Aphrodisiac, Anti-depressant, Skincare, Meditation aid, Antiseptic

How to use:
Massage, Bath, Inhalations, Cold compress, Vaporise

Blend with:
Neroli, Myrrh, Sandalwood

Garlic (Allium sativum)

Treatment:
High blood pressure, Colds, Heart disease, Cough, Blood circulation, Cholesterol, Urinari infection
Properties:
Skincare, Antiseptic, Bactericide, Anti-fungal, Tonic

How to use:
Cold compress

Blend with:
Lavender, Peppermint

Geranium (Pelargonium odorantissimum)

Treatment:
Anti-depressant, Astringent, Diuretic, Haemostatic, Promotes healing

Properties:
Insect repellent, Anti-depressant, Skincare, Antiseptic, Relaxant, Deodorant, Tonic

How to use:
Massage, Bath, Hot compress, Vaporise

Blend with:
Bergamot, Citronella, Lemongrass, Lavender

Ginger (Zingiber officinalis)

Treatment:
Catarrh, Diarrhoea, Rheumatism, Cold, Flu, Cramps, Nausea, Travel and morning sickness

Properties:
Aphrodisiac, Antiseptic, Stomachic-digestive, Tonic

How to use:
Massage, Mouthwash, Bath, Hot compress, Inhalation, Cold compress

Blend with:
Lavender, Orange, Neroli

Jasmine (Jasminium grandiflorum)

Treatment:
Uterine, Menstrual pain, Anti-depressant, Cramps, Cough, Childbirth, Chest

Properties:
Anti-depressant, Skincare, Aphrodisiac, Antiseptic, Relaxant, Tonic

How to use:
Massage, Bath, Vaporise

Blend with:
Neroli, Lemon, Rose, Cedarwood

Juniper (Juniperus grandiflorum)

Treatment:
Diuretic, Detoxifying, Astringent, Tonic, Eczema, Cystitis, Purifying

Properties:
Skincare, Antiseptic,Tonic, Meditation aid, Stomachic-digestive, Relaxant

How to use:
Massage, Bath, Local wash

Blend with:
Geranium, Rosemary, Frankincense

Lavender (Lavandula augustifolia)

Treatment:
Antiviral, Headache, Menstrual pain, Analgesic, Antibiotic, Acne, Anti-inflammatory

Properties:
Skincare, Anti-depressant, Insect repellent, Antiseptic, Bacteriside, Stomachic-digestive, Relaxant, Tonic, Deodorant, Anti-fungal

How to use:
Massage, Bath, Vaporise, Hot compress, Cold compress

Blend with:
Bergamot, Orange, Marjoram, Geranium

Lemon (Citrus limonum)

Treatment:
Stimulates immune system, Corns, Warts, Bleeding Gums, Digestive and circulatory tonic, Counteracts acidity

Properties:
Skincare, Hair/scalps tonic, Insect repellent, Antiseptic, Bactericide, Deodorant, Tonic

How to use:
Massage, Bath, Vaporise, Mouthwash, Cold compress, Inhalations, Local wash

Blend with:
Ylang-ylang, Tea tree, Juniper, Fennel

Lemongrass (Cymbopogon citrates)

Treatment:
Infection, Fever, Digestive, Tonic, Headache, Deodorant, Footbath

Properties:
Skincare, Insect repellent, Antiseptic, Bactericide, Deodorant, Stomachic-digestive, Tonic

How to use:
Massage, Bath, Vaporise

Blend with:
Lavender, Rose, Geranium, Juniper

Marigold (Calendula officinalis)

Treatment:
Dry skin, Nappy rash, Varicose veins, Cronic Ulcers, Promotes healing

Properties:
Skincare, Antiseptic, Bactericide, Stomachic-digestive

How to use:
Massage, Bath, Local wash, Cold compress

Blend with:
Mandarin

Marjoram (Origanum majorana)

Treatment:
Respiratory problems, Cold, Insomnia, High blood pressure, Digestion, Rheumatism, Arthritis

Properties:
Antiseptic, Relaxant, Stomachic-digestive, Tonic

How to use:
Massage, Bath, Inhalation

Blend with:
Lavender, Bergamot, Rosemary

Melissa (Melissa officinalis)

Treatment:
Eczema, Skin, Allergies, Shock, Menstrual regulation, Coughs, High blood pressure

Properties:
Skincare, Insect repellent, Deodorant, Relaxant, Stomachic-digestive

How to use:
Massage, Bath, Vaporise

Blend with:
Lavender, Rose, Neroli, Geranium

Myrrh (Commifora myrrha)

Treatment:
Promote healing, Stomach, Eczema, Acne, Anti-inflammatory, Mouth ulcers, Digestive, Athlete’s foot

Properties:
Skincare, Antiseptic, Bactericide, Anti-fungal, Meditation aid, Tonic

How to use:
Massage, Mouthwash, Inhalation, Vaporise

Blend with:
Sandalwood, Frankincense

Myrtle (Myrtaceae family)

Treatment:
Astringent, Acne, Catarrh, Bronchial, Chest, Haemorrhoids, Urinary infections

Properties:
Skincare, Antiseptic, Bactericide, Tonic, Stomachic-digestive, Meditation aid

How to use:
Massage, Bath, Inhalation, Vaporise

Blend with:
Lavender, Cypress, Neroli, Lemon

Neroli (Citrus vulgaris)

Treatment:
Anti-depressant, Antispasmodic, Insomnia, Gentle sedative, shock, Gums, Mouth

Properties:
Skincare, Anti-depressant, Aphrodisiac, Antiseptic, Deodorant, Relaxant, Stomachic-digestive, Tonic

How to use:
Massage, Bath, Hot compress, Vaporise

Blend with:
Rose, Jasmine, Lemon, Bergamot

Nutmeg (Myristica fragrans)

Treatment:
Circulation, Heart, Digestion, Bad Breath, Rheumatic pain, Appetizer

Properties:
Mouthwash, Antiseptic, Stomachic-digestive, Tonic

How to use:
Massage, Inhalation, Cold compress

Blend with:
Clove, Orange, Rosemary

Orange (Citrus aurantium)

Treatment:
Antispasmodic, Stomach, Mild sedative, Constipation, Chronic diarrhoea

Properties:
Anti-depressant, Skincare, Relaxant, Stomachic-digestive

How to use:
Mouthwash, Massage, Vaporise, Bath

Blend with:
Lavender, Marjoram, Ylang-ylang, Juniper

Patchouli (Pogostemon cablin)

Treatment:
Anti-depressant, Antiseptic, Astringent, Fluid retention, Anti-inflammatory, Stings

Properties:
Skincare, Aphrodisiac, Anti-depressant, Anti-fungal, Tonic

How to use:
Mouthwash, Massage, Vaporise, Bath

Blend with:
Geranium, Rose, Bergamot, Lemon

Peppermint (Mentha piperata)

Treatment:
Colic, Diarrhoea, Indigestion, Vomiting, Stomach pain, Cold, Fever, Headache

Properties:
Skincare, Insect repellent, Bactericide, Stomachic-digestive, Relaxation

How to use:
Inhalation, Massage, Vaporise, Bath

Blend with:
Eucalyptus, Lavender, Marjoram

Pine (Pinus sylvestris)

Treatment:
Chest infection, Colds, Sore throats, Circulation, Rheumatic pains, Lungs

Properties:
Antiseptic, Bactericide, Deodorant, Anti-fungal

How to use:
Bath, Vaporise, Inhalation, Do not use undiluted

Blend with:
Eucalyptus, Lavender

Rose (Rose damascene, Rosa centifolia)

Treatment:
Anti-depressant, Anorexia, Regulating menstrual, Confidence improving

Properties:
Skincare, Aphrodisiac, Stomachache-digestive, Tonic, Antiseptic, Relaxant

How to use:
Inhalation, Massage, Vaporize, Bath

Blend with:
Neroli, Sandalwood, Jasmine, Geranium

Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis)

Treatment:
Heart, Liver, Colds, Gallbladder, Catarrh, Speech, Sinusitis, Asthma, Sight, Memory

Properties:
Skincare, hair/scalp tonic, Antiseptic, Bactericide, Tonic, Meditation aid, Stomachic-digestive

How to use:
Inhalation, Massage, Vaporise, Hot compress, Bath

Blend with:
Marjoram, Lavender, Bergamot, Basil

Sandalwood (Santalum album)

Treatment:
Antiseptic, Dry skin, Sore throat, Cystitis, Bronchitis, Urinary infection

Properties:
Skincare, Aphrodisiac, Antiseptic, Meditation aid, Relaxant, Tonic

How to use:
Inhalation, Massage, Vaporise, Bath

Blend with:
Ylang-ylang, Neroli, Blackpepper

Tea Tree (Melaleuca alternifolia)

Treatment:
Influenza, Fungi, Viruses, Warts, Ringworm, Cold sores, Blisters, acne

Properties:
Skincare, Insect repellent, Antiseptic, Bactericide, Anti-fungal

How to use:
Inhalation, Massage, Local wash, Mouthwash, Bath

Blend with:
Lavender

Ylang Ylang (Cananga odorata)

Treatment:
Relieves sexual anxiety, High blood pressure, Slow breathing, Anti-depressant

Properties:
Skincare, Anti-depressant, Hair/scalp tonic, Aphrodisiac, Antiseptic, Relaxant, Stomachic-digestive, Tonic

How to use:
Massage, Vaporise, Bath

Blend with:
Sandalwood, Lemon, Orange, Bergamot

Carrier Oils - what are they and the top 15 in the market today

2009-03-01T01:45:00.000-08:00

Carrier oils are oils that are used to dilute essential oils, fragrances or flavors. They serve to spread the essential oils evenly on the skin as well as to facilitate or increase the absorption rate into the skin. A good vegetable oil will have many other functions as well, including anti-ageing, anti-wrinkle, anti-oxidant, etc. Some even have a tightening, whitening or stimulating effect. Listed below are the top 15 carrier oils in the market today and their functions/ applications in the market.

The top 15 carrier oils in the market today

Sweet Almond Oil

Almond has been considered a sacred fruit for many years in some parts of the world, including India. It is a very versatile oil that is used traditionally in many food and cosmetic applications such as creams, lotions, shampoos, face packs, massage and hair oils, soaps and almost any other products. It has various functions in the cosmetic and personal care industry. It is used in naturopathic medicines that claim to decrease fatigue and depression by topical application. Because it is rich in tocopherols, folic acid, polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA), proteins, minerals, glyceroids, and vitamins, it is good food for the skin. The presence of tocopherol or Vitamin E makes it a wonderful anti oxidant. This oil is also useful as an anti-stretch marks because of its high content of linoleic, omega 6 and essential fatty acids. High linoleic content also prevents epidermal water loss, gives deep penetration and high nourishment.

In the food industry, sweet almond oil is also taken orally to increase stamina and almond powder is used in various health drinks as it is considered to give a cooling effect to the brain.

Sweet almond oil has a balanced fatty acid profile and has a good stability. Thus it serves its function well as a good carrier oil and very good oil for spas and massage clinics.

Olive Oil

Olive oil has a broad usage in the food, personal care and skin care market. It is traditionally used as baby massage oil. Newly born children in specific countries like India are given massage using this oil after birth. Olive oil has a balanced fatty acid distribution and is rich in tocopherols (vitamin E). It is a good skin emollient with a superior nourishing effect. It also has good oxidation stability, thus is used a lot in shaving creams, shampoos, creams, lotions, hair oils, foot creams and massage oils. It can be used directly on the scalp or in hair care products like gels because it penetrates into the roots of the hair, is well tolerated and reduces flaking.

Sesame oil

Sesame oil, like almond oil is used a lot traditionally. It is very rich in vitamins A, B & E, as well as linoleic acid (omega 6). Sesame oil contains sesamoline, which gives excellent stability to the oil. It functions as a good skin emollient and even has an anti bacterial property. It is highly hydrating and nutritive to the skin, and is easily absorbed, keeping the skin soft and supple. Sesame oil is also known to impart a natural UV protection on the skin, give relief from stress and fatigue, rejuvenate the skin as well as increase the stamina. Thus it is used a lot in aromatherapy massage oils and in hair care products as it is non greasy.

Jojoba oil

Jojoba oil is also a traditional oil that is highly preferred. It has a composition similar to the human natural skin oil/ sebum. It is a light oil and gets quickly absorbed into the skin. Like other oils, it is a good moisturizer and antioxidant. Jojoba oil has a high stability index as it is composed of wax esters – this means it does not turn rancid very quickly. It is used abundantly in skin care and hair care products, for example in massage oils, creams, lotions, hair oils, lipsticks and lip balms. It finds a special place in hair care as it provides good nourishment to the hair follicles, going into the roots of the hairs, and stimulating the blood circulation there. It also repairs hair damage and removes scale formation on the hair shaft.

Grape Seed Oil

Grape seed oil is high in linoleic acid (omega 6) and is a very good anti-oxidant. It is characteristically low in color and odor. Grape seed oil is known to be a highly nourishing oil that quickly penetrates into the skin. It also has mild astringent properties and is good for anti-stretch mark cosmetics. This makes it a very good carrier oil for massage oils, hair oils and day creams. It is even used as a carrier oil in the fragrance industry due to its low color and minimum odor.

Sunflower oil

This oil is rich in mono-unsaturated fatty acids (MUFA) and has a high oxidation stability, which means it does not turn rancid very easily. It is usually used as a massage or hair oil because of its splendid moisturizing and anti-oxidant properties. It is also used for food applications – some people use sunflower oil to cook.

Macadamia

This oil is rich in mono-unsaturated fatty acids (MUFA). It is very popular in the skin care and body care market as it has deep skin penetration and moisture retention properties and serves as very good nourishment for the skin. On top of that, it has a skin lightening effect. Macadamia oil is characteristically low in odor and has a higher palmoleic acid than any other oil. For these benefits, it is commonly used in day creams, lotions and massage oils.

Hazelnut oil

Hazelnut oil is rich in unsaturated fatty acid: oleic acid and linoleic acid (omega 6), as well as tocopherols (vitamin E). This makes it a good antioxidant. It is also very stable, thus is used in many applications in the anti ageing cosmetic and spa culture. It is also used to promote fairness.

Wheat Germ Oil

Wheat germ oil is rich in tocopherols, gluline and polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA), thus it is a good anti-oxidant, promotes regeneration of cells and has a good nourishment value. This makes it a good oil to rejuvenate dry and mature skin. It also promotes high moisture retention in the skin, has a superior skin penetration and ease of spreading. It is a fantastic massage oil and is also used in skincare and hair care products such as lotions, creams, shampoos, hair oils and such.

Walnut Oil

Walnut oil is rich in tocopherols, oleic acid, polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA), Omega 6 and Omega 3. Thus it is very good for skin nourishment. It has these functions: good skin emollient, good moisturizing properties, imparts a silky feel to the skin, regenerates damaged skin, and prevents wrinkle formation. It is also used as an anti stretch-mark as well as anti age ingredient. It is widely used to remedy rough and dry skin. Also, it is used for hair care products like hair oils and creams as it protects the hair from negative influences like weather and UV. It also helps to control dandruff and repair hair cuticles when applied to hair shaft.

Avocado oil

This oil is rich in vitamins A,D and E. It penetrates very well into the skin and has a high moisture retention property. It is used in anti-wrinkle and anti ageing formulations and gives a similar effect to vegetable squalane. Because it is stable and has low color, it is used a lot in creams, lip balms, skin toners, baby oils, day creams, mature skincare, and massage oils for the face and body.

Rosehip oil

This oil has many traditional uses. It is rich in linoleic and linolenic acids, as well as Vitamin A. It is good for anti wrinkle and anti stretch mark applications. It prevents premature ageing and helps the skin regain its natural color.

Evening Primrose oil

Evening Primrose oil is quite popular in the market. It has a high GLA content, an essential fatty acid for the skin, as well as Omega 6, thus it is highly nutritive. It promotes easy spreading and is used in massage oils at a low percentage. Clinical studies prove that it reduces fatigue and gives good elasticity to the skin. It also comes highly recommended for pre-menstrual troubles and can be taken orally.

Borage Oil

Like evening primrose oil, it has a high GLA content. It easily penetrates into the skin. It promotes high moisture retention in the skin and is highly nutritive. Using this oil frequently will lead to a softer and suppler skin and it is very soothing as well.

Apricot Kernel Oil

This oil is very good for anti-ageing. It has a good spreading, moisturizing and skin penetration capability. It is also known to remove dead cells from the skin, promoting a glowing complexion. For skin whitening formulations, it is used in combination with jojoba oil. It is a good massage oil for massage clinics and spas.

Why natural vegetable oils should be used in your products compared to mineral oil

2009-02-25T09:22:00.000-08:00

There has been an ongoing debate on this matter for a very long time now, and most of the cosmeticians and formulators could not seem to come into an agreement on whether mineral oil is better than vegetable oils or vice versa.

The general belief though, based on the burgeoning ‘green concept’ worldwide, is that the balance is now tipped towards using vegetable or plant based oils. Of course, economically speaking, mineral oil would be the cheaper source, therefore its widespread use in many cosmetics, toiletries and even spa products. Many had in fact argued that because of its inert characteristic it is a great ingredient to play with. In fact, it is the main ingredient in baby oil, petroleum jelly, massage oils, creams and lotions, as well as cosmetics, especially in lipsticks and lip balms. Still, while some do not consider it to be unnatural based on its origin from crude oil (which naturally occurs in the soil), by the time that it is processed, it is certainly in a form that does not occur in nature. In this context, it is no longer natural. Our body cannot assimilate it. Similarly, nature cannot easily break it down or biodegrade it as easily. Mineral oil, in the form that is being used in our products, in other words is alien to nature.

There has been many rumors about the side effects of using mineral oils for the simple fact that because it is a petrochemical, it may have unknown toxic or adverse effects. And although it may function as a good spreading agent and prevent water loss from the skin by forming a protective layer over it (as all oils do), mineral oil is most definitely not “food” for the skin. It has no other benefits other than what was earlier mentioned. Thus, it should be the alternative to natural or plant derived products. More and more each day, consumers are being educated about the importance of using materials that are ‘skin friendly’ and thus, the trend is moving more and more away from unnatural synthetic oils.

Here are the reasons why you should consider switching to products/ toiletries that contain vegetable or plant oils instead of mineral oil, or if you’re currently going to a spa or salon, you should be asking about this and making sure that you are getting good value for your money (some spas provide natural oils but at an additional cost):

1. Vegetable oils are well tolerated and do not have side effects.

2. Natural oils have a composition similar to the human sebum and are ideal for all types of skin.

3. Vegetable oils have excellent skin penetration, skin nourishment and spreading compared to synthetic oils.

4. Vegetable oils are easily incorporated with other ingredients, are good emollients and excellent carriers.

5. Natural oils are enriched with essential fatty acids, EFAs (OMEGA 3, OMEGA 6).

6. Natural oils have emollient properties which aid in elasticity and water retention.

7. Many oils are rich in natural tocopherols (Vitamin E) that scavenge free radicals, helping to prevent premature ageing of the skin.

In other words, vegetable oils give:

• Good elasticity
• Hydration and
• Are highly compatible with skin
• These are easily absorbed by the skin for their natural unsaponifiable components

Similarly, natural waxes in oils are known to:
• Nourish the skin
• Prevent skin tissues from tearing
• Prevent stretch marks and
• Prevent wrinkle formation

All these should be sufficient to make the switch from mineral oil to vegetable oils, if you haven’t already. Your skin is the largest organ in your body – for sure it deserves a little more investment from your side, don’t you agree? ^.^

How to use essential oils – A Guide for Dummies

2009-02-24T02:46:00.000-08:00

Almost everyone, I believe has heard about the wonders of using natural essential oils to remedy many ailments and modern day diseases (this includes mental stress or depression, which is very prevalent considering the economic situation nowadays). Essential oils have long been established to have medicinal values and have been used traditionally in many different cultures and tribes all over the world. Having said that, how are essential oils utilized to our benefit?

There are many ways to use one particular essential oil. The more passionate user would probably mix a few types of essential oils to get a synergistic result. Some essential oils work better together compared to others – for example, oils to remedy bloating, for relaxing or for respiratory ailments and such.

It is crucial to mention for a start that essential oils are very potent liquids that should not be used undiluted on the skin. Dosages for adults, pregnant women and children would differ and is dependent on the condition being treated as well. The usual advice would be:

Adults – Add 5-6 drops of essential oil to 10 ml of carrier oil.
Children, Pregnant
Women & Elderly people – Add 2 drops of essential oil to 10 ml of carrier oil
Infants – Add 1 drop of essential oil to 10 ml of carrier oil

1) Massage (Dermal Absorption)
Most people use essential oil blends in direct contact with the skin by adding a few drops into carrier oils. This oil blends can be used for massage on the body, massage for the scalp, facial point massage or as a moisturizer. This is great for babies, children and even pregnant ladies (gentle massage). People are usually advised not to take a bath after an aroma oil massage to maximize the benefits of the essential oil, which can last up to about eight hours.

2) Nasal Inhalation
- Direct Inhalation
This is the fastest way to apply essential oils. You can put a few drops of essential oils on a tissue or a handkerchief and let the smell waft around your nose/ face. Take care not to touch the essential oil on your skin as it may cause burning. Inhale deeply for better results.

- Steam Inhalation
Alternatively, there is the steam inhalation, whereby you could add a few drops of the chosen essential oils to a tub of hot water and cover your head over this tub with a towel, leaning over with your eyes closed and inhaling deeply for up to five minutes. Asthmatics as well as people with sensitive/ delicate skin should avoid this step.
Inhalation is commonly used to treat colds, headaches, sinus and other respiratory ailments/ head congestion or fainting spells.

3) Baths
A warm, fragrant bath can be particularly relaxing after a stressful day at work. You can add 4-6 drops of your favorite essential oils or essential oil blends directly into your tub of warm water. Just remember to agitate the water to disperse the oil since oil and water generally do not mix. Alternatively, you can add some milk to the bath water to help disperse the oils – guaranteed to leave your skin feeling smooth and supple, as well as to alleviate your mental tension.

4) Compresses
Compresses are typically used to deliver essential oils to a particular area of the body. They can be used to warm or cool an area and are beneficial for fluid or lymphatic congestion, muscular aches & pains, headaches, migraines or inflamed skin conditions.
Pour 100ml of water into a bowl. Add 4-5 drops of essential oil and swish well. Soak material or face washer in water, wring and cover the affected area. Keep reapplying compress as required.
For a Warm compress apply a hot water bottle over compress. Useful for muscle aches & pains
For a Cold compress apply ice pack wrapped in a towel over compress. Useful for irritated skin conditions, swellings and headaches.

5) Spritzers/ Room Mists
You can add your favorite essential oil or oil blend into water and use it as a spritzer to energize or refresh yourself, especially after a long and tiring flight or travel (Lavender oils are usually recommended for this use). Similarly, you can create your own room mists and spray it to the air around you. Typically, 20-25 drops of essential oil are mixed to about 50 ml of water. Remember that oil and water do not mix, thus the blend has to be shaken rigorously before use. A good mixture of essential oil can influence your mood and have many therapeutic benefits.

6) Candle Aroma Burner/ Oil Burner
Essential oils or blends can be used in burners, whereby the scent is infused into the air using heat from the candle. To do this, simply fill the burner bowl with water and add 6-10 drops of essential oil depending on the size of the room and light a candle. It is important to make sure that the burner is on a stable, heat-resistant surface and out of the reach of children, pets or other flammable materials to avoid a fire hazard. Remember to blow out the candle after use.
Alternatively, essential oils or blends can also be applied directly onto an unscented candle to the partially melted wax portion. It is best to do this by lighting up the candle, waiting for the wax to melt partially, blowing out the candle, adding the oil, and then relighting the candle.

7) Vaporizer
Lastly, electric vaporizers are considered a safer and more effective way to diffuse oils, especially in the presence of young children, in public places, spas, workplaces and even in hospitals.
Follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer.

Spa & Aromatherapy – How it influences your moods, emotions and wellbeing

2009-02-17T23:27:00.000-08:00

They say that the World Wide Web probably has the richest pool of knowledge at one single place, and I agree very fully. So here I am giving my one cent’s worth on spa and aromatherapy – something that I am quite involved in at a personal level and am still gaining knowledge about. Unavoidable of course, since it is part of my business and one of my favorite past times, but honestly, it is more than just that. Fact is, I am very passionate about natural oils and how they affect our daily lives in this 21st century and am curious to know how aware people around me are about them.

For sure, most of us frequent spas at one time or another. And due to the over-commercialization of the word ‘aromatherapy’, we probably would have encountered essential oils somewhere along the line, whether in soaps or lotions or air fresheners. But how many of us are really adept about what essential oils can do for us? I found myself amazed by the myriad of oils there are in existence – God has certainly supplied us with many remedies for our current conditions in His wonderful garden and this is truer now than before, with lives getting more complicated, health going down the drain while stress levels shoot up the ceiling.

First, what does aromatherapy really mean? The word was first coined by a French chap in the 1920s, some poor bloke named Rene Maurice Gattefosse, who ingeniously thrust his burning hand into a vat full of lavender oil to put out the fire in a freak accident and found that the miracle oil gave him relief from the pain and shortened the period of time he took to recover from the burn. What a chance finding really! He continued to devote his life to researching on essential oils along with a long list of other people, thus the function of the different oils have been quite well documented. Some have been used as alternative medicine by ancient people to treat certain conditions like asthma, arthritis and skin disorders, and are even mentioned in folklores in many parts of the world.

So, ‘aromatherapy’ really originates from the French word aromatherapie, which means ‘treatment using scents’. Aromatherapy, to put it simply is the use of scents extracted from 100% pure essential oil, and not just any fragrance or perfume compounds. Essential oils refer to a concentrated hydrophobic liquid that contains the volatile aroma compounds of the plants. These essential oils can be extracted from various parts of the plants such as the flowers, fruits, leaves, bark, roots, grasses, seeds & gums. Different plants such as rose, lavender, jasmine, ylang-ylang, rosemary and etcetera will produce different essential oils, and each essential oil has its own unique scent, chemical and beneficial properties.

Essential oils are most famously used to influence our moods, stimulate the body’s natural healing mechanism, and promote a sense of well being. I hide a bottle of rose absolut essential oil in my bag to keep the depression and moodiness at bay during certain periods of the month, and I always keep in handy at home some tea tree oil, lavender oil and neem oil mixture in case of any cuts, grazes, insect bites or pimples. At the beginning, I did wonder if the soothing and calming effect of the rose oil was partly due to my psychology, having studied about these effects. Still, whether or not this was true, I cannot deny that the scent of roses reminded me of field full of roses on a restful cool morning, and no doubt it is very pleasant and comforting indeed! Just rub a drop on your hand and the aroma lingers for hours! Just the same, ylang ylang oil has been known for centuries to have an aphrodisiac effect – put it simply, it makes one feel sexy and in the mood – in fact, ylang ylang flowers have been placed on the beds of newly weds in ancient times, so there you go! If nothing else works, here’s your Viagra in a bottle in preparation for a romantic night out with your loved one! Interesting isn’t it?

So how do essential oils actually work internally? Essential oils can be massaged into the skin or inhaled through the nose into the lungs. Receptors in the nose transmit electric impulses to the limbic system in the brain. This limbic system controls our emotional responses, memory, intuition and libido. This is how aromatherapy can affect our memory, mood and emotions. Aromatherapy scents that are inhaled will eventually reach a part of the brain called the hypothalamus that controls hormone production. In this way, aromatherapy scents can also affect the physical body. The benefits of aromatherapy may be felt from a few minutes to several hours and best of all, essential oils are not drugs and they do not remain in the body. If you’re interested in how this can work for you whatever your conditions, stay tuned for more in my next entry! More to come on must-visit spas around our area and how you can benefit by tailor-making your own oils for use during these sessions! ^.^