10 Safe & Natural Ways to Manage Pregnancy Acne

April 17, 2013 by 4 Comments

I recently received an email from a reader asking which products are safe to use for her pregnancy acne. While my friends had beautiful and radiant pregnancy glows, I had pencil eraser sized postules taking up serious real estate on my forehead, chin and jaw line. When pregnant, hormones called androgens cause sebaceous glands to release more oil. That in addition to thousands of shedding skin cells clogs the pores and causes breakouts. If you’re one of the lucky ones that gets pregnancy acne, there’s not much you can do to get rid of it, but you can use safe and natural methods to keep it from getting out of control.

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  1. Don’t over wash. This will only dry out the skin which will in turn increase oil production and cause more skin cells to shed and clog pores causing breakouts. Wash your face twice a day- when you wake up and before you go to sleep. Kiss My Face Pure Olive Oil Bar Soap is a safe, gentle and affordable choice to cleanse the skin. The Non Toxic Shop also makes a wonderful line of anti-bacterial products. They both receive the highest safety rating in the EWG’s Skin Deep Cosmetics Database.
  2. Don’t scrub your face as it will only irritate the skin. Instead, gently exfoliate. I use a Clarisonic with the Acne Cleansing head which is well worth the investment but you can also use a soft washcloth using gentle pressure and a circular motion.
  3. Gently pat your face dry using a soft, lint-free towel.
  4. Use a toner to absorb excess oil and refresh your skin throughout the day. Good old-fashioned Witch Hazel is safe and affordable. Another option is to make your own using Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV). Be sure to use a raw, unfiltered, organic ACV such as Bragg’s. It contains naturally occurring enzymes which are rich in natural alpha hydroxy acids, helps to dissolve dead skin cells, balances the skin’s PH, improves acne and acne scars and helps minimize the appearance of large pores. To make, simply mix one part ACV with three parts distilled water. Store in a glass bottle and refrigerate.
  5. Don’t forget to moisturize. Remember, if your skin gets too dry, it will work harder to produce more oil. Crunchy Betty’s DIY Three Ingredient Facial Oil Moisturizer is a great way to customize your own or you can check out my review of By Nieves C Perfect Skin. I’ve been using it every evening for the past year and am a huge fan.
  6. Make a spot treatment using one tablespoon baking soda (not baking powder) and one tablespoon of water.
  7. Refrain from picking or popping those pesky pimples. It will only increase irritation and potential scarring. If you can, try to get a monthly facial. A professional esthetician can do gentle extractions which will prevent the pimples from becoming infected and can help to keep them from scarring. To locate a green and organic spa near you, check out www.ecovian.com. Just be sure to ask what products they use and read the ingredients.
  8. Keep your pillow case clean by changing it often – especially if you use hair products. It’s also a good idea to use a gentle, non-toxic laundry soap such as Charlie’s.
  9. Eat plenty of nutritious whole foods and skip sugary, processed and packaged foods. This is wise for a healthy pregnancy anyway, but eating a clean diet can also help your skin stay more clear.
  10. Stay hydrated. Avoid sugary or carbonated beverages and drink plenty of purified water, about 10 glasses a day.

Pregnancy acne is no fun but it is temporary and usually subsides when hormone levels return to a balanced state. Try to take it in stride and remember that sweet bundle of joy who is waiting to meet you Earthside!

Do you have any safe and natural remedies for treating pregnancy or hormonal acne? Join the conversation by commenting below!

Filed Under: Beauty + Style, Natural Remedies, Pregnancy + Birth, Uncategorized Tagged With: , , , , , , ,

Ecocentric Mom: March “Mom” Discovery Box Review

March 28, 2013 by Comments

I was so excited to receive my first Ecocentric Mom box this month! In case you missed my last post, Ecocentric Mom is a fun and smart way to discover non-toxic, eco-friendly, and cruelty-free products from ethical, sustainable and honest companies.

Ecocentric Mom Logo 1

Each monthly box is packed with an assortment of hand-selected goodies and is delivered right to your door in chic, eco-friendly packaging. Members can choose between three Discovery Boxes for Mom, Mom-to-Be, or Baby, and also includes exclusive product discounts and monthly giveaways!

Ecocentric Mom March Mom Discovery Box

March “Mom” Discovery Box

Here are some of my fave standouts from the March Mom Discovery Box:

Treefort Naturals Hemp Lemongrass Soap. If you’ve been reading my site for a while then you know I’m very selective about which products I use and the ingredients in them. This Mama-owned company’s handmade soap ticks all of the boxes:

  • Natural, local and organic ingredients used whenever possible ☑
  • Vegan. Family/friend tested & approved! ☑
  • Handmade in small batches using old-fashioned cold pressed method ☑
  • No yucky synthetic colors, dyes, perfumes or preservatives ☑

I had been using the same unscented olive oil soap for a while and was excited to switch it up. I am prone to dry/sensitive skin and noticed how moisturized and calm my skin was after using it one time. Hempseed oil is rich in Omega essential fatty acids which is easily absorbed by the skin, and gamma linoleic acids, an essential skin lipid which promotes regeneration at the cellular level – a process that slows down with age.

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The soap is lightly scented with lemongrass, one of my favorite essential oils. I avoid anything too perfume-y but this has a nice and light uplifting scent that’s not overbearing. Lemongrass has been shown to relieve stress and insomnia, reduce headaches and irritability, and is calming but prevents drowsiness. It also has deodorizing and antiseptic properties that can help remedy skin ailments like eczema and psoriasis. I checked out their Etsy shop and they have lots of neat body care products for the whole family that also make nice gifts!

Go Raw 100% Organic Spirulina Energy Bar. I wasn’t sure what to make of this funky little green bar but tossed it in my handbag… and it came in handy. My toddler fell asleep in the car and instead of waking him, I pulled over to respond to some emails. Hungry and in need of an energy boost, I dove into the bar and washed it down with a bottle of water. I was pleasantly surprised by how tasty and satisfying it was. It’s kind of tropical- you can taste a hint of banana which plays off the nutty taste of the seeds.

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I managed a raw or “living” foods restaurants some years back and learned about the many benefits of spirulina. It’s rich in iron and has the highest source of vitamin B-12, which is essential for vegetarians. The sprouted seeds in this bar are also among the most nutritionally dense foods out there. I give bonus points for being gluten-free, vegan, raw, kosher and non-GMO. I’m going to pick up a big box so I can keep some bars in my handbag. They’re also perfect to keep in my doula bag when I need a quick and satisfying pick me up!

Mama Willow Tree Green Tea Herbal Eye Balm. I dig Mama Willow Tree’s philosophy. They strive to make all of their herbal products $12 or less and donate 5% of all sales to a non-profit supporting women and children. This mama-owned company also ticks all the boxes for me – all products are non-toxic, vegan, not tested on people, not animals, ingredients are organic, fair-trade sourced and responsibly obtained, scents are essential oil derived and packaging is recyclable, reusable or compostable.

Now, onto the product review. My eyes were in need of some serious TLC. I haven’t been getting as much sleep as I would like and I’m already prone to dark under eye circles. Plus, I’m staring to get some fine lines. Not wearing my glasses and staring at a computer squinting doesn’t help! After using this herbal eye balm twice a day for almost a week, I can see and feel why it’s their best-selling product.

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First and foremost, it was was quite calming and soothing. The area under my eyes is really sensitive and even the most natural products seem to irritate it so this was a big plus. The area under my eyes also looks a bit brighter and definitely feels smoother and firmer. I checked out the ingredients and the balm is made with sunflower oil which has high amounts of oleic acids and vitamins A, D, and E which are very nourishing for the skin. Elderflower, calendula, chamomile and lavender are soothing and help to reduce wrinkles and lines. It’s also infused with green tea extract which helps soothe tired puffy eyes and helps brighten dark under eye circles. Other interesting ingredients that sets this product apart from the others are carrot root, which aids in skin regeneration, fennel which helps to firm the fragile skin around eyes, and eyebright which has apparently been used for centuries to relieve eyestrain and inflammation. It also helps to brighten the eyes, hence the name.

I also like that it’s a balm opposed to a cream and is easy to apply. I can toss it in my handbag and apply it whenever I’m feeling dry. It also makes concealer go on smoothly. By the way, I caught my husband using it!

Essence of Vali “Sleep” A Bedtime Ritual. I have been waking up in the middle of the night lately with lots on my mind, like my never ending to-do list, and have had some trouble going back to sleep. Instead of cruising Instagram, I dabbed a drop of this essential oil blend onto the corner of the pillowcase. No joke, I drifted back off to a restful sleep in no time… until my toddler woke me. I used it again the following night before going to sleep and it helped to promote a sense of peace and relaxation. I imagine this would be great to carry on long flights too. It’s easy to understand why it this award-winning gem has a cult following.

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Waxelene The Petroleum Jelly Alternative. Brilliant product. If you haven’t already heard of Waxelene, get excited! You can use this for all the same things you would use petroleum jelly for (soothing and moisturizing dry or chapped skin, removing eye make-up, skin rashes, etc… the uses are endless) except it has NO petroleum, hydrogenated oils or other nasty chemicals. They use a patent-pending aeration process to create a silky smooth blend of 100% natural beeswax and certified organic and non-GMO soybean, rosemary and vitamin E oils that won’t clog pores. Plus, it comes in eco-friendly packaging and is made in a wind-powered facility. I’ve already used it to moisturize dry cuticles, remove eye make-up, tame my crazy eyebrows, and put some on my feet with cotton socks overnight for soft feeties in the morning!

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I had a lots of fun going through the Mom Discovery Box and trying out these awesome natural products! This month’s box contains more than $100 worth of high-quality goodies and coupons and only costs $17. If you want to try out Ecocentric Mom you can click here to sign up and membership can be cancelled anytime without a hassle. Can’t wait for more great finds next month!

Filed Under: Beauty + Style, Ecocentric Mom, Natural Remedies, Products, Reviews + Giveaways Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Preventing & Treating Recurrent Plugged Ducts

March 10, 2013 by 2 Comments

I had a heck of a time with recurrent plugged ducts and I’m not alone. Through extensive research as a new mama and again as a lactation educator, in addition to experimenting with different approaches, I finally figured out a multi-pronged plan of attack to prevent and treat these little (or not so little) buggers.

Mayo

  • Proper latch. An improper latch is the culprit for most breastfeeding issues and can result in insufficient emptying of the breast, which in turn contributes to plugged ducts. This is a great video for learning how to get your baby to properly and effectively ‘latch on.’
  • Frequent & thorough emptying of the breasts. The longer milk sits in the breast, the thicker it becomes, making it more likely to cause a plugged duct. Don’t wait too long in between feeds and/or expressing milk (every 1-2 hours with a plug present) and be sure the breast is properly drained. If you have a distracted baby like mine, consider hand expressing or pumping. I also found pumping and/or hand expressing (while using compression and massaging toward the nipple) after each feed to be effective in getting the milk out.
  • Breastfeeding & Varying Positions. Start each feed on the side with the plug (when baby’s suck is the strongest) and aim baby’s chin in the direction of the plug. For example, if the plugged duct is in the bottom outside area of the breast (8 o’clock), then feeding the baby in the football or clutch position will be most effective. It’s also a good idea to change breastfeeding positions each time you feed so the different milk ducts can each flow and drain. This sounds silly, but many women have been able to release a plug by using gravity: lay baby down on the bed and hover over her on all fours (yes, like a dog) and offer her the affected dangling breast. Note: Be sure not to neglect the unaffected breast – you want to make sure it’s also being thoroughly drained to avoid a potential issue.
  • Apply heat. You can do this with a heating pad, hot water bottle, rice sock or basin of hot water. Use caution not to burn your skin by using too much heat for too long. I found moist heat to be most effective particularly before a feed or expressing milk. Take frequent hot showers (as hot as you can tolerate) or soak in a hot bath while firmly massaging the plug towards the nipple and hand expressing the milk out.
  • Milk blister or bleb. Sometimes, but not always, a plugged duct is associated with a “bleb” or milk blister on the end of the nipple where the nipple pore is. It is usually painful and commonly due to a poor latch. A lactation professional can help open the blister with a sterile needle. She will gently puncture the top or side of the blister and squeeze just behind the blister to see if the plugged up milk will come out. This might result in the duct unblocking. Putting the baby to the breast after puncturing the bleb may also result in the baby unblocking the duct. She will also recommend an ointment to be applied to the nipple after each feed for a week or so to prevent infection and reduce the risk of the bleb or blister returning.
  • Pressure Massage. This method of massage from Dr. Sears works by applying pressure to the edge of the lumpy area closest to your chest wall with the heel of your hand to the point just before it becomes too painful. Hold the pressure at that level until the pain eases off. Then increase the pressure again, (without moving your hand) and hold it until the pain eases. Continue to gradually increase pressure at that same site until you are pressing as hard as you can. Then pick your hand up, move it down toward your nipple about a half inch, and repeat the pressure massage in this area. Continue moving your hand a half inch and repeating the massage until you get all the way down to the nipple. You may see the dried milk come out from an opening in your nipple. Even if the plug doesn’t actually come out, you will at least have dislodged it and moved it toward the nipple so that when baby goes to the breast and sucks, he will remove it with his suction.
  • Rest, De-Stress  and “Babymoon.” It’s not always easy to get rest with a baby. Get help with chores and errands or just let them be- this is not the time to fuss over the dishes. If you work outside the home, take the day off. Take baby to bed with you (babymoon) and breastfeed there. Stress can also contribute to plugged ducts so as difficult as it may be, try to “keep calm and carry on.”

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  • Holistic & Homeopathic Approaches. B-complex vitamins, vitamin C, evening primrose oil, thyme, probiotics and consuming 3-4 raw garlic cloves (try taking with orange juice) have been known to help plugged ducts. Also, try eating wholesome, nutritious foods, reduce your intake of saturated fats and drink water to thirst or about 64 oz. daily. Soy Lecithin has helped some mothers prevent plugged ducts. It as been suggested that it decreases the viscosity or “stickiness” of the milk by increasing the percentage of polyunsaturated fatty acids in the milk. I like Health Alliance Non-GMO Lecithin Powder. The dose is 1200 mg, 3-4 times a day. Chinese medicine typically views plugged ducts as an accumulation of toxic heat. Acupuncture can help clear the heat and toxicity while treating any underlying imbalance that may be causing or contributing to the condition. This homeopathic protocol has been effective. First, take 3 pellets of Hepar Sulphur 30C. Three hours later, take 3 pellets of Phytolacca Decandra. Repeat.
  • Pain Relief. Ibuprofen is the preferred anti-inflammatory pain medication for breastfeeding women and will help reduce swelling. I was stubborn about this one at first but I quickly learned that it really helps and gives you the relief you need to get a good milk letdown which is essential for good milk transfer and thorough emptying of the breast.
  • Ultrasound therapy. Most plugged ducts will be go away with these measures within 48 hours. For really stubborn plugs, therapeutic ultrasound treatments are painless and have been proven effective. Most physiotherapy or sports medicine clinics can do this for you. However, few are aware of using ultrasound to treat plugged ducts so you may want to call around to find someone who is experienced. If you live in the Los Angeles area, please contact me for a referral. Each treatment should last for about five continuous minutes on the affected area. If two consecutive treatments (for two days) don’t work, then it should be evaluated by a specialist. One of my “plugged ducts” actually turned out to be a lactating adenoma. At home, you can try using the flat end of an electric toothbrush or Clairisonic face brush to give yourself a mini “ultrasonic” treatment for less stubborn or smaller plugs.
  • Sneaky Offenders. Be mindful of the below ways which can obstruct the flow of milk through the ducts, thus causing a plug:
    1. Seatbelt Straps. Be aware of how your seatbelt fits across your chest and adjust it as needed to alleviate pressure on the breast itself.  Many vehicles have adjustable heights, but if yours does not you may want to use a folded washcloth or cloth diaper to place underneath where a belt presses against your breast to redistribute the pressure.
    2. Purses. Same as above.
    3. Bras. Wear a comfortable, loose fitting nursing bra without underwire. At home or out, consider “free-boobing” it ;)
    4. Sleeping Positions. A sleeping position that puts pressure on your breasts is likely to contribute to plugged ducts. If you are a tummy sleeper, try sleeping on your side with a pillow between your knees. I experienced my first plugged duct after a massage while laying on my stomach and have requested pre-natal massages in the side-lying position ever since.
  • Introspection. Louse Hay published a book called Heal Your Body which describes “the mental causes for physical illness and the metaphysical way to overcome them.” It contains physical maladies plus the way to look at that condition spiritually. It also contains the positive affirmation you can meditate upon to help you work toward healing. The section on breast problems including cysts, lumps, soreness, plugged ducts and mastitis states: “A refusal to nourish the self. Putting everyone else first. Overmothering. Overprotection. Overbearing attitudes.” The positive affirmation associated with breast lumps and cysts reads: “I am important. I count. I now care for and nourish myself with love and with joy. I allow others the freedom to be who they are. We are all safe and free.”
  • Support. Plugged ducts are no picnic. I would be lying if I said I didn’t want to give up when in the throes of a plugged duct attack. Get friends and family to help with chores and errands, have a good cry, enlist your partner to give you a good foot massage and find a local breastfeeding support group such as La Leche League. I am always here for support too!

Note: When you finally do break up the blockage, you may not be able to tell until for a day or so as the area will remain tender. Also, the tips for treating plugged ducts are similar to those for mastitis. However, if left untreated, mastitis can result in a breast abscess. If you think you have an infection or have flu-like symptoms, consult an IBCLC.

Please consult with your health-care provider or naturopath before starting any treatment plans or taking any supplements.

Filed Under: Natural Remedies, Uncategorized Tagged With: , , , , , , , , ,

Immunity Boosting Tea

January 25, 2013 by Comments

This healing combination of immune boosting garlic + digestion aiding ginger + pH balancing citrus + circulation boosting cayenne helps your immune system stay strong and warms you up from the inside out.  It ‘s quite tasty and should be enjoyed sip-by-sip!

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Image © Natureal Mom 2013

Ingredients:

  • 1 clove garlic
  • ginger root
  • 1/2 lemon
  • cayenne
  • purified water
  • raw honey (optional)
  1. Peel and crush garlic.
  2. Peel and chop ginger into chunks. Place at the bottom of a large mug.
  3. Pour hot water into the mug over the chunks of ginger. Steep for 2 minutes.
  4. Add garlic.
  5. Squeeze half of the lemon into the mug.
  6. Add a dash (really, just a dash) of cayenne pepper right into the tea and stir.
  7. Add 1 tsp raw honey (optional)

Note: To unlock the healing powers of garlic, it must sit for 10 minutes after being crushed. A sulfur-based compound called alliin and an enzyme called alliinase are separated in garlic’s cell structure when it’s whole. Crushing garlic ruptures the cells and releases these elements, allowing them to come in contact and form a powerful new compound called alliicin, which not only has numerous health-promoting benefits but is also what gives garlic its pungent aroma and “bite.”

Cheers to good health!

 

Filed Under: Food + Recipes, Health + Fitness, Mind + Body, Natural Living, Natural Remedies Tagged With: , , , , ,

15 Ways to Boost Your Immune System Naturally

January 25, 2013 by 4 Comments

‘Tis the season for sniffles, sneezes and sore throats! We can’t do much about the toxins, bacteria and viruses that we’re exposed to– but we can strengthen and support our immune systems which will help prevent these invaders from doing harm in the first place. Here are 15 ways to boost your immune system naturally and help keep you healthy and feeling good year-round!

image source: http://www.earthquarterly.org

image source: http://www.earthquarterly.org

1. Garlic. Garlic is one of nature’s most powerful immune boosters. It is a natural antimicrobial and unlike most antibiotics, garlic does not destroy the body’s normal flora. To unlock the healing powers of garlic, it must sit for 10 minutes after cutting. A sulfur-based compound called alliin and an enzyme called alliinase are separated in garlic’s cell structure when it is whole. Chopping garlic ruptures the cells and releases these elements, allowing them to come in contact and form a powerful new compound called alliicin which is also responsible for the garlic’s “bite” (more bite = more healing benefits). A favorite winter remedy and immunity enhancer containing garlic is Herbalist Rosemary Gladstar’s fire cider. You can also try combining garlic with lemon, ginger and cayenne for a surprisingly pleasant immune boosting tea.

2. Catch some Zzz’s. Getting enough sleep keeps our immune systems primed and ready to fight off invaders. It is also the crucial time when our bodies restore and repair themselves. Shoot for 8 hours of good quality sleep a night and try taking a 20-minute catnap if you are falling short. Here are some great tips to help ensure a good night’s rest.

3. Emotional Well-Being/Stress Management. Depression, negative states of mind, grief and stress produce corticosteroids which depress immune function. By doing breathing exercises, meditating, practicing yoga or simply doing things you enjoy, you can help boost immunity, relieve tension and enhance physical and mental resilience. These meditation exercises calm the mind and have been proven to significantly strengthen immunity.

4. You Are What You Eat. Eating refined sugars and processed, packaged foods regularly makes it tough for your body to maintain a strong immune system. These foods lack essential vitamins and nutrients and make your body work overtime to process and digest foods that the human body wasn’t designed to eat. Try incorporating more whole foods (foods as close to their natural state as possible) into your diet– especially fresh, raw fruits and vegetables.

5. Go Green. Speaking of raw vegetables, dark leafy greens are loaded with phytonutrients. A recent study has also shown that green veggies are the source of a chemical signal that’s important for a fully functioning immune system. These chemical signals ensure that immune cells in the digestive tract and skin function properly. For a delicious way to drink your greens and get your morning off to a good start, check out this Green Goddess smoothie recipe from friend and holistic health coach Emma Goodwin-Dasilva.

6. Elderberries. This immune boosting botanical is packed with antioxidants, vitamins and minerals. Elderberry syrup has a long history of use in traditional European medicine and is so highly regarded that it has been called the “medicine chest of country people.”  This proven remedy is known to shorten the duration of colds to 3-4 days and is also effective against 10 different strains of the flu. Elderberry preparations are traditionally taken early enough to head off a massive viral invasion from the get-go. We recently started making our own elderberry syrup which is easy to prepare and saves a lot of money.

7. H20. Drinking plenty of pure filtered water helps flush out any harmful toxins that your immune system would otherwise have to deal with. Remember, not all water is the same. Tap water is acidic and laden with chemicals. Bottled water is unfortunately not much better.  The EWG found that most bottled water is just tap water in a plastic bottle which leeches BPA (a potent hormone disrupter that has been associated with many health problems). The best water for your health is one that filters all harmful contaminants, helps to balance pH levels and gives you the added benefit of antioxidants. Save money and reduce exposure to chemicals in your water by getting a good quality water filter. Be sure to use a reusable non-toxic bottle such as the ones made by Lifefactory.

8. Vitamin D. Research shows that vitamin D, which is made when our skin is exposed to sunlight, plays a vital role in activating white blood cells that protect the body from illnesses. The best way to optimize Vitamin D levels is through safe, smart and limited sunscreen-free exposure to the sun. Mushrooms are also an excellent source of vitamin D. Mycologist Paul Stamets discovered that you can naturally multiply their levels of vitamin D by exposing them to sunlight. Vitamin D-enriched mushrooms are best made from June until September and can be dried as the high vitamin D levels generated will last for more than a year! This is especially beneficial for people living in colder climates.

9. Get moving. Too little exercise can lead to a stagnant lymphatic system and weaken the immune system. Studies have shown that remaining active through regular exercising can help boost your immune system by increasing the amount of white blood cells in your body to help fight off any forms of illness. It is important to note that too much exercise or too vigorous exercise produces corticosteroids which can strain your body and depress immune function. Moderate exercise such as Tai Chi, Pilates, yoga, swimming and walking are good options for boosting immunity.

10. Vitamin C. This master immune booster helps immune cells mature, has an antihistamine effect, controls excess levels of the stress hormone cortisol which can suppress immunity and is antibacterial and antiviral. It works by increasing the production of antibodies and in particular, raises levels of interferon, the antibody that coats cell surfaces, preventing the entry of viruses. Because your body doesn’t produce or store vitamin C, it is important to include it in your diet. Papaya, bell peppers, strawberries, broccoli, pineapple, brussels sprouts, kiwi, oranges, cantaloupe and kale are all rich in vitamin C.

11. Zinc.  This trace element is essential for cells of the immune system. A zinc deficiency affects the ability of T cells and other immune cells to function as they should. Nuts and seeds are a good vegetarian source of zinc. While it’s important to have sufficient zinc in your diet, too much can actually inhibit the function of the immune system.

12. Healthy Fats.  Essential Fatty Acid’s (EFAs) are necessary fats that humans cannot synthesize, and must be obtained through diet. They boost the immune system and have also been shown to lessen inflammation and increase the activity of phagocytes, the white blood cells that eat up bacteria. Plant based foods rich in EFA’s include spinach, winter squash, avocado, broccoli, cauliflower, beans, nuts and seeds. Another way to get more omega-3 fatty acids in your diet is to add chia seed oil or flax seed oil to a smoothie. The Total EFA by Health From the Sun is a great vegetarian supplement available for adults and kids.

13. Balanced pH. An alkaline body can prevent disease and is much healthier, as illnesses and infections mainly occur in an acidic body. Excesses of meat, dairy and refined sugars make your body more acidic (I could dedicate an entire post on the benefits of ditching meat and dairy altogether but I’ll save that one for another time). There is a lot of information on this subject. Learn more about naturally improving your pH balance here.

14. Coconut Water. Breastmilk aside, “Co-co” is my toddler’s favorite beverage. Interestingly enough, coconut water contains high amounts lauric acid, which is one of the compounds in breastmilk that aids the body in fighting infection. Coconut water helps balance the ratio of good-to-bad bacteria in your digestive tract, is naturally antibacterial and antimicrobial which are both beneficial in fighting infections, warding off disease, and boosting your immune system.

14. Only eat what you need. Restricting calories may reduce levels of compounds in the body that depress your immune response. Overweight adults who reduced their daily caloric intake by nearly a third boosted their immune response by 50% according to a Tufts study published in the Journal of Gerontology. Those who cut calories by ten percent had smaller improvements. The finding is intriguing because if restricting calories boosts immunity, it may be an indication that the aging process is slowed down in people who carefully control their diets. A weakened immune response is a well-known hallmark of aging with T-cells becoming less effective as we grow older.

15. Wash your hands. While washing your hands may not affect your immune system directly, it helps prevent infection and illnesses by reducing the amount of germs and bacteria your immune system has to fight. Keep nails short and wash hands frequently with good, old-fashioned hot water and chemical-free soap, especially after using the bathroom, changing diapers and before handling food. Ditch antibacterial soaps and sanitizers that are loaded with toxins which increase the risk of creating resistant bacteria and over-dry and crack the skin, making transmission of viruses that much easier. A few cloths sprinkled with drops of essential oils with antibacterial and antimicrobial properties such as lavender, cinnamon, clove, geranium, lemon, lime, orange, thyme and rosemary are good when on-the-go.

What do you do to naturally boost your body’s immune system? Please share by leaving a comment below!

The information about the use of herbs and essential oils contained in this site is not meant to be a substitute for seeking the advice of a qualified health care provider. Always consult your health care provider before administering or taking herbal remedies, especially during pregnancy, when breastfeeding, or with children. To locate an experienced herbalist in your area, contact the American Herbalists Guild. To locate a licensed naturopath in your area, contact the American Association of Naturopathic Physicians.
Filed Under: Health + Fitness, Mind + Body, Natural Remedies, Uncategorized Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Green Goddess Smoothie

January 24, 2013 by Comments

My friend and Holistic Health Coach Emma Goodwin Dasilva says adding greens to your smoothies will help boost your immune system, cleanse your blood, increase oxygen uptake, and help stabilize blood sugar. Emma’s Green Goddess smoothie is great for increasing energy, stamina, and elevating mood and is also wonderful for pre-pregnancy, healthy pregnancy, and postpartum depression.

green goddess smoothie

Ingredients

  • 1 scoop of 7.2 greens
  • 2 scoops of 7.2 shake
  • 2 Tbsp almond butter
  • 1 whole banana
  • 1 handful kale (deveined)
  • 1 handful spinach
  • 4 oz blueberries
  • 8 oz filtered water
  • 1/4 cup coconut milk (or almond milk)
  • 2 Tbsp hemp seeds &/or chia seeds

Blend until smooth and enjoy!

To learn more about alkaline cleansing and programs visit Emma’s website and Facebook.

What are your favorite green smoothie recipes? Please share by posting a comment below!


Filed Under: Food + Recipes, Health + Fitness, Mind + Body, Natural Remedies, Uncategorized Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , ,

Natural & Safe Herbal Remedies for Kids

April 28, 2012 by 1 Comment

Herbs have been used for healing long before recorded history. The majority of childhood ailments tend to be mild and herbal remedies are considered safe, effective and are much gentler than conventional and pharmaceutical alternatives. Internationally known herbalist and educator Rosemary Gladstar says, “Administered wisely, herbs do not upset the delicate ecological balance of children’s small bodies as does much of modern medicine, but rather work in harmony with the young child’s system.” This, along with plenty of rest, nourishing food and liquids, and lots of love often provides all that’s needed to help your little one bounce back to health.

For infants and small children, it’s best to administer herbs in a mild tea form or as a syrup. For older children, you can make herbal candy balls. Simply combine the desired herbs with raw organic honey, maple syrup, or nut butter and shredded coconut. Roll into balls and store in the refrigerator.

Using herbal remedies in the home also helps to nurture a child’s relationship with the earth. Most herbs are easy to grow and take little care to flourish. By helping children plant their own herb garden and teaching green practices you can instill a life-long love and respect for the planet. Dried herbs may also be bought in bulk at natural food markets, health food stores or at a local farmer’s market. Just be sure that they smell fresh and look vibrant as they tend to lose their power over time. I buy most of my herbs locally or online from Mountian Rose Herbs.

The below herbs will make a wonderful addition to any natural home remedy kit.

Aloe vera. Best known for healing burns and its skin soothing effects, the best way to use aloe is directly from the plant itself. Apply the clear sap inside directly to the affected area. It is this sap that has been shown to have pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory properties.

Anise. Great tasting and commonly used for children’s complaints such as coughs, asthma, bronchitis and also aids in digestion.

Apis. Wondeful remedy for stings and bites. It is particularly indicated in bites that burn, itch, sting and swell with redness. Apis is also a key remedy for sore throats and red, puffy tonsils.

Arnica. One of the most well known homeopathic remedies, Arnica is an excellent first aid treatment for bumps, bruises, swelling and soreness by reducing inflammation and speeding healing.

Basil. Basil is considered a safe and gentle tonic for breastfeeding mothers. Taken as a tea, it helps to expel gas in infants and has been shown to increase lactation in the mother.

Bee Propolis. The humble bee has given humanity much in the way of all-natural substances that promote healing. We should be grateful to the busy bees for all their hard work in collecting resin from trees and flowers and turning it into propolis which has been shown to strengthen immunity.

Belladonna. Belladonna is helpful for fevers, when a child has a flushed face, throbbing headache, swollen glands, and drowsiness but difficulty falling asleep.

Calendula. This is the first thing we reach for whenever someone has a cut, scratch, scrape or rash. Calendula reduces inflammation, promotes wound healing, and is an antiseptic. Fresh calendula petals can also be infused in boiling water to treat mouth sores.

Chamomile. Peter Rabbit’s mother fed him soothing chamomile tea in Beatrix Potter’s classic tale. It soothes swollen gums, eases pain and fever, tummy aches, menstrual cramps, and promotes a sense of calmness in irritable and restless children.

Echinacea. Echinacea is a wonderful immune boosting herb and considered a “mother’s helper” by herbalists. Echinacea has anti-viral and anti-bacterial properties and is useful for bites, toothaches, sore throats, wounds, upper respiratory infections, colds and flus.

Elderberry. This is an essential remedy to have on hand. Black elderberries are rich in vitamins A, B and C, and support immune system functioning. They have been shown to prevent colds and flus and speed recovery in those who have the flu. It is available in as a syrup or you can save some money by making your own.

Fennel. This wonderful tasting herb is a natural antacid that neutralizes excess acids in the stomach and intestines and promotes digestion. It is good for fussy babies, irritable bowel and anxiety and also increases lactation in the mother.

Garlic. Garlic is an antioxidant that has been used for many years to boost the immune system and prevent ailments such as colds, flu, menstrual pain, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, coughs and bronchitis. It has also been proven to kill various fungal infections, viruses, bacteria, and intestinal parasites. One of the most effective natural remedies for ear pain associated with an ear infection is warm garlic oil. Learn how to make it here.

Ginger. Ginger is an excellent anti-inflammatory herb and digestive remedy. It is useful for ailments such as nausea, motion sickness, diarrhea, indigestion, colic, arthritis, colds, flus, headaches and poor circulation.

Lemon Balm. This pleasant tasting herb is calming, gentle and good for children. It’s antiviral and antiseptic and used to lower fevers and headaches, promote digestion, ease anxiety and can be used as a mild sedative.

Meadowsweet. This healing herb soothes and protects the mucous membranes of the stomach and digestive tract and reduces acidity. It calms an upset stomach and quells nausea. It’s a gentle astringent combined with nutritive making it safe, mild, and effective for treating diarrhea in children.

Mullein. In the form of warmed oil (or combined with garlic oil), it is helpful for treating bronchial congestion or simple ear infections.

Nettle. Nettle is high in vitamins and minerals, especially iron and calcium. It is a natural remedy for allergies and hay fever and helps alleviate growing pains in young children.

Oregano. Oregano has a broad spectrum of anti-microbial activity against germs, fungus and viruses. It’s a natural antibiotic and we find oil of oregano effective for treating colds and flus. This herb is quite strong and not recommended for young children.

Raspberry. Raspberry tea is a good tonic herb with a rich supply of vitamins and minerals that help build strong bones and general good health. Raspberry tea is given to reduce fever and calm diarrhea in children.

Rosemary. Rosemary is high in antioxidants, helps the nervous system and is good for headaches, fatigue, poor appetite, low blood pressure and weak circulation.

Slippery Elm. Slippery Elm helps soothe and moisten dry irritated throats and when paired with raw honey (which is naturally antibacterial, antiseptic and antifungal) it provides a wonderful natural remedy for coughs. It also helps with digestive problems including both diarrhea and constipation. Make your own lozenges.

Yarrow. Yarrow is a time-honored cold and fever remedy recommended in the early stages of children’s colds. It may once have been used much as aspirin is today.

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For Further Reading 

Rosemary Gladstar’s Family Herbal: A Guide to Living Life with Energy, Health, and Vitality by Rosemary Gladstar

A Kid’s Herb Book by Lesley Tierra

Smart Medicine for a Healthier Child by Janet Zand

Walking the World in Wonder: A Children’s Herbal by Ellen Evert Hopman

Natural Baby and Childcare: Practical Medical Advice and Holistic Wisdom for Raising Healthy Children by Lauren Feder

Kids, Herbs & Health: A Practical Guide to Natural Remedies by Linda B. White, M.D. and Sunny Mavor

Naturally Healthy Babies and Children: A Commonsense Guide to Herbal Remedies, Nutrition, and Health by Aviva Jill Romm

Herbal Healing for Children by Demetria Clark

The information about the use of herbs and/or essential oils contained in this site is not meant to be a substitute for seeking the advice of a qualified health care provider. Always consult your health care provider before administering or taking herbal remedies, especially when pregnant or breastfeeding. 

To locate an experienced herbalist in your area, contact the American Herbalists Guild. To locate a licensed naturopath in your area, contact the American Association of Naturopathic Physicians.

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