You are only three steps and a short list of ingredients away from a homemade microdermabrasion paste. Not only does microdermabrasion help you achieve clear, smoother skin, but it also improves the overall health of your skin. If you are curious about microdermabrasion, especially regarding at-home recipes, you came to the right place. 

What Does Microdermabrasion Do?

It is a minimally invasive treatment that removes the uppermost layer of skin from the face or body. Typically, a dermatologist uses a special tool that gently exfoliates (or sands away) the uppermost layer of the skin. It is most commonly done on the face, chest, back, hands, and neck. Microdermabrasion stimulates the production of new skin cells and aids collagen production. Some other benefits of microdermabrasion include:

• Treating acne scars
• Cleaning out clogged pores
• Improving overall complexion
• Reducing signs of aging
• Improving skin firmness and texture
• Revealing newer, undamaged skin

Types Of Microdermabrasion

There are two main types of microdermabrasion: crystal and diamond. Both of these procedures thoroughly exfoliate the skin and have their own benefits. During crystal microdermabrasion, micro-crystals shoot out of a small tube onto the skin. Simultaneously, they are vacuumed back up, acting like a high-powered scrub. Diamond microdermabrasion, on the other hand, is a crystal-free variation. Instead, it uses a diamond-tipped wand to exfoliate the skin. 

Who Can Benefit From Microdermabrasion?

Most people who are in good health can safely get microdermabrasion. That said, dermatologists recommend this procedure for people with skin problems, or those who have specific skin care goals in mind. Microdermabrasion may be beneficial for those with:

• Large or clogged pores
• Wrinkles and fine lines
• Acne scars
• Sun-damaged skin
• Uneven complexion

Because the process can be harsh on the skin, make sure that the skin is not irritated prior to the treatment. Do not get microdermabrasion if you currently have any of the following:

• An active cold sore 
• A suspicious mole
• Moderate to severe acne
• A rash
• An open wound or skin irritation
• Sunburn
• You take acne medication (or have taken it in the past 6 months)

What Does Microdermabrasion Paste Do?

First and foremost, it does not involve crystals or diamonds. It pretty much does the same thing as a regular microdermabrasion treatment, only with natural ingredients. This paste is 100% natural and is a bit gentler than regular microdermabrasion treatment. It contains baking soda, which is mildly abrasive and perfect for gently removing the uppermost layer of your skin. Learn how to make the paste below. 

DIY Microdermabrasion Paste

Ingredients:

• 2 teaspoons baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon water
• 1/8 teaspoon melted coconut oil
• 1 drop lavender essential oil

Instructions:

• Add all of the ingredients to a small bowling stir to combine. The mixture should resemble a thick paste. 
• Scoop the paste into an airtight container and use when ready. 
• Before you use this paste, wash your face with a gentle face wash and then pat your face dry. 
• Apply the microdermabrasion paste to your face, massaging it into your face in circular motions. 
• Leave the paste on for a few minutes before rinsing your face and patting the skin dry. Apply moisturizer and see the difference!

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Depending on where you live, you might be in a weird limbo between spring and summer. The weather can fake you out, getting warmer for a few days, only to have a crisp chill in the air the next. On those warmer days, though, it is great to incorporate some hydrating, refreshing ingredients into your diet. That’s why we put together this lovely citrus salad, which is just as flavorful as it is beautiful.

If we could insert just a little of our own opinion here….we would tell you that we could eat this salad whenever the weather is warm. It just screams warm vibes on the beach or chill afternoons in the park. You can also enjoy this citrus salad in the comfort of your own home! And even though the word “salad” is part of the recipe, it is truly just a combination of different citrus fruits. Even the dressing contains lime! Because this salad contains three citrus varieties, it is very rich in vitamin C, which helps to optimize immune function and encourage collagen production, which contributes to healthier-looking skin.

This salad consists of Cara Cara oranges (although any orange variety is acceptable to use) and grapefruit. Cara Cara oranges are naturally sweeter, complementing the tart and slightly bitter flavor of grapefruit. Make sure to peel the oranges and grapefruit, ensuring you remove any excess pith (the white inner part of the peel). Cut your fruit into segments to give your salad an elevated look. Don’t have time for all that fancy jazz? Cut the oranges and grapefruit as you please and toss the pieces in the dressing.

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Snack enthusiasts: this one is for you! This is less so a recipe and more so a tutorial on how to properly dehydrate mangos for healthy snacking. If you have been on the hunt for a super tasty raw vegan snack, you clicked on the right recipe. We’re going to dive deep into the world of dehydrated mangos. Trust us when we tell you that they are soft, chewy snacks that’ll hook your taste buds after the first bite. Plus, you only use mango, so you don’t have to worry about processed ingredients or preservatives that are typically in dried mangos that you find in grocery stores.

Why are mangos perfect for your snacking needs? First off, mangos offer a ton of vitamins, especially vitamin A and C, both of which encourage healthy immune function. They also help improve the appearance of the skin, assisting with collagen production. Mangos also contain a lot of fiber, which benefits digestion and can help keep you feeling full longer. That makes these dried mangos perfect for combatting those mid-afternoon cravings! We cannot forget about the antioxidant properties, which work to combat oxidative stress, a process that ultimately lowers the risk of chronic diseases.

Do yourself a favor and make this recipe…like yesterday. Grab some fresh mangos and get started on dehydrating. Just keep in mind that this recipe, like most dehydrator recipes, takes a bit of time. You may need to dehydrate the mangos for 12-14 hours. Just remember that the thinner your mango slices are, the quicker they will dry out. Happy dehydrating and snacking!

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The hibiscus is a colorful, flowering plant that is not only stunning to look at, but also valuable in the world of health and wellness. It can be made into teas, extracts, supplements, and more. You can even cook with the dried flower leaves, using them as a meat substitute. But we are not here to talk to you about the many uses of hibiscus today; rather, we come bearing an easy DIY facial scrub made with hibiscus powder, among other natural ingredients. 

Why Should You Use Hibiscus?

Hibiscus grows in tropical and subtropical regions, including Mexico, Thailand, China, Nigeria, Sudan, and Hawaii. Native to Malaysia and India, hibiscus is naturally rich in bioactive compounds, which researchers attribute to the plant’s purported health benefits. For example, some of the reasons to use hibiscus include:

• Anti-aging properties: Known for its ability to increase skin elasticity, hibiscus is sometimes referred to as “the botox plant.” Due to the vitamin C and antioxidant content, hibiscus works to firm and lift the skin, which reduces the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. 
• Rich in antioxidants: Hibiscus is particularly rich in anthocyanins, which work to fight free radicals and reduce the risk of oxidative stress. Some research shows that anthocyanins may also prevent premature aging. 
• Anti-inflammatory: Hibiscus contains anti-inflammatory properties, which may help soothe irritated skin, making it an ideal ingredient for people with acne or sensitive skin.
• Natural exfoliant: According to research, the natural acids in hibiscus, which include alpha-hydroxy acids, work to gently exfoliate the skin. They may also help remove dead skin cells and promote a brighter, even complexion. 
• Promotes collagen production: Due to the high vitamin C content, hibiscus helps support the production of collagen, which is necessary for maintaining the skin’s elasticity. 
• Hydrating: Researchers note that the mucilage content in hibiscus provides great hydration, which helps maintain optimal moisture levels. This leaves the skin feeling soft and supple.
• Natural cleanser: As we previously mentioned, hibiscus is a natural exfoliant. It is also a great cleanser, working to break down and remove impurities, helping to detoxify the skin and clean out pores. 

Pink Kaolin Clay

Yet another ingredient that works absolute wonders for your skin. Researchers note that pink kaolin clay’s gentle nature makes it optimal for softening the skin. It will help leave it soft and refreshed after every use. Similar to hibiscus, this clay helps exfoliate the skin on a mild level. It may assist with the removal of dead skin cells, resulting in a smoother, glowing complexion. Due to the natural soothing properties, pink kaolin clay is an ideal ingredient for those with sensitive or irritated skin. It may even work to reduce inflammation or redness. 

Pink kaolin clay, while gentle, works to absorb excess oil from the skin. That makes this clay beneficial for people with oily or combination skin types. What’s more, it doesn’t strip the skin of its natural moisture. Finally, because it is rich in minerals like silica, pink kaolin clay helps nourish the skin and give it strength, which contributes to the skin’s vitality. 

DIY Deep Cleansing Hibiscus Facial Scrub

Ingredients:

• 3 tablespoons oats
• 1/4 cup rose hips
• 1/4 cup hibiscus powder
• 3 tablespoon pink kaolin clay

Instructions:

• Grind the oats into a very fine powder. You can use a food processor or immersion blender to do this. Repeat the process for the rose hips. 
• Add the ground oats and rose hips to a small mixing bowl with the hibiscus powder and pink kaolin clay. Mix well and then pour the mixture into a glass jar. Screw on the lid and store in a cool, dry place.
• To use, slowly add water, one tablespoon at a time, to the powder mix and rub onto your face in circular motions for two minutes. Rinse with warm water and then pat your face dry. Do this two times per week.

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Bananas are some of the most readily available and relatively inexpensive fruits. You can commonly see them hanging from the top of a kitchen fruit basket in most homes. Bananas happen to be an excellent choice if you want to include more potassium, vitamin C, vitamin B6, magnesium, and various antioxidants and polyphenols. This article aims to cover some of the many health benefits of bananas. 

Nutritional Profile

Bananas offer a fair amount of fiber, water, antioxidants, and complex carbohydrates, but they are low in protein and fat. One medium banana offers the following nutrients:

• Calories: 112
• Protein: 1 gram (g)
• Fat: 0.4 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Carbs: 29 g
• Riboflavin: 7% of the daily value (DV)
• Niacin: 5% of the DV
• Vitamin C: 12% of the DV
• Potassium: 10% of the DV
• Folate: 6% of the DV
• Magnesium: 8% of the DV
• Copper: 11% of the DV

May Support Heart Health

Because one banana offers 10% of the DV of potassium, enjoying a banana day may help regulate blood pressure levels. Potassium is a vital nutrient for blood pressure management. In fact, a potassium-rich diet can help lower the risk of hypertension. A 2021 study found that people who consumed more than 3,000 milligrams (mg) of potassium per day had a 25% lower risk of cardiovascular disease than those who did not consume potassium. Bananas also contain magnesium, which is a mineral involved with heart health management. 

May Improve Kidney Health

Although potassium is vital for blood pressure regulation, it also plays a role in kidney function. A study from 2019 included more than 5,000 people with early stage chronic kidney disease. Study authors linked the consumption of potassium to lower blood pressure and a slower progression of kidney disease. That said, some people who have late-stage kidney disease or those on dialysis need to restrict their potassium intake. If you fall into either of those categories, consult your healthcare professional before you increase your potassium intake. 

Rich In Vitamin B6

Vitamin B6, or pyridoxine, is a water-soluble vitamin that is necessary for normal brain development and keeping the nervous and immune systems healthy. The vitamin B6 from bananas is easily absorbed by the body and can help with:

• The production of red blood cells
• Metabolizing amino acids
• The removal of unwanted chemicals from the liver and kidneys
• Metabolizing carbohydrates and fats for energy
• Maintaining healthy nervous system function 
• Benefitting fetal development in the womb (for pregnant women)

May Improve Blood Sugar Levels

Bananas contain soluble fiber, which dissolves into a liquid to form a gel during the digestive process. Unripe, or green, bananas also contain resistant starch, a type of fiber that the body does not digest. Together, resistant starch and soluble fiber can help regulate blood sugar levels after meals. Additionally, they may help regulate your appetite by slowing the rate at which the stomach empties. Even though bananas have a higher carb count, they may not cause blood sugar spikes in people with diabetes. A 2021 study noted that the glycemic index of bananas is 47 (low) and the glycemic load is 7 (low). 

Respectable Source Of Vitamin C

It’s not common to associate bananas with vitamin C, but a medium-sized banana provides 10% of the DV. Just keep in mind that a banana doesn’t offer the same amount of vitamin C as a kiwi, guava, or bell pepper, all of which offer an impressive amount. Vitamin C can help with:

• Better absorption of iron
• Protecting the body against cell and tissue damage
• Collagen production, which is an essential protein necessary for optimal skin and bone health
• Supporting serotonin production, which has an affect on sleep cycle, overall mood, and the ability to deal with stress and pain

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When you think of a crisp, freshly made juice, fennel is probably not the first ingredient that tops the ingredient list. Most people think of freshly squeezed orange juice or carrot, apple, beet juice. There are countless recipes, many of which are in our Smoothies and Juices recipe section, but we wanted to stray from the path well-traveled today and offer something new. This is a fantastic green juice recipe that has a mild anise flavor with the zing of fresh lemon and ginger, while the apple provides a lovely sweetness.

As a whole, this juice may help combat inflammation in the body. Fennel is naturally rich in valuable plant compounds, including quercetin, limonene, and chlorogenic acid, to name a few. Various studies indicate that that a diet rich in plant compounds such as these can help reduce the risk of chronic health conditions, including obesity, heart disease, and type 2 diabetes. Because fennel contains beta-carotene (another beneficial compound) and vitamin C, it may support collagen production and tissue repair. These two processes help maintain healthy looking skin, as well as mucus membranes that protect the respiratory tract.

While we could go on about the health benefits of fennel, it isn’t the only ingredient in this juice. You’ll thank us for that once you drink it! Green apples offer pectin, which has demonstrated an ability to lower LDL (bad) cholesterol levels. They also have a crisp flavor when compared to Red Delicious or Fuji apples. Lemon is packed with vitamin C and helps promote alkalinity within the body. Consider using a Meyer lemon for a sweetly tart flavor. Finally, ginger adds a lovely kick with numerous antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds. This is a juice you’ll grow to love; we’re certain of it!

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If you are looking to support the health of your skin, joints, and hair, you will need collagen. Many people purchase collagen powders or supplements and add them to their teas, coffees, smoothies, and more. Although collagen products are incredibly popular, most people are unaware of what collagen does and how they can preserve it. 

What Is Collagen?

Collagen is the most abundant structural protein in animals. A structural protein makes up the structure or framework of both cells and tissues. There are 28 types of collagen, but type 1 collagen accounts for nearly 90% of all collagen in the human body. Collagen is mostly composed of the amino acids proline, glycine, and hydroxyproline. These amino acids form strands that make up the triple-helix structure characteristic of collagen.

The body naturally produces collagen, but collagen production starts to decline some time during your twenties at a rate of about 1% per year. UV exposure, inflammatory diets, lack of sleep, harsh products, and stress can exacerbate this decline. For this reason, many dermatologists encourage a skin care routine that helps preserve collagen. Use vitamin C serum, experiment with retinol if the skin can tolerate it, and wear sunscreen if you go outside. 

Although there are things you can do to help protect collagen, one of the best ways to care for it is through a healthy diet. The food you eat can influence collagen production. Certain foods, especially those with antioxidants, can help protect the skin from free radicals and support the skin barrier. Continue reading to learn about five antioxidants that help keep the skin firm.

Astaxanthin

Astaxanthin is a carotenoid phytonutrient and powerful antioxidant that has demonstrated an ability to protect skin cells. Other studies confirm that astaxanthin can help preserve the collagen layer because it has impressive photo protective and anti-inflammatory properties. Researchers note that astaxanthin’s free radical fighting powers are five times more powerful than beta-carotene. It’s about 6,000 times more potent than vitamin C! Although vitamin C, which we will get to next, is a powerful antioxidant, it should not be the only one you rely on to encourage collagen production.

Vitamin C

You cannot talk about the skin without having vitamin C in the conversation. Vitamin C is a cofactor in the collagen production process. The skin’s fibroblasts rely on vitamin C to synthesize collagen. According to many studies, fibroblasts cannot effectively make collagen when vitamin C levels are low. Vitamin C works to stabilize the collagen molecule and preserve existing collagen by neutralizing free radicals. For this reason, researchers believe that ingesting vitamin C is the best way to support overall skin health. 

Blood Orange Extract

Blood orange is not in season all year, but it’s very popular during the winter months. What is even more popular, especially in the world of skin care, is blood orange extract. It contains numerous antioxidants, including anthocyanins and flavanones, vitamin C, and hydroxycinnamic acids, which are non-flavonoid phenols. That means that you get all of the benefits of those compounds in one extract. Due to the antioxidant power of blood orange extract, it helps reduce oxidative stress, which causes collagen breakdown. A 100-milligram dose of blood orange extract is effective at reducing proinflammatory levels of cytokine TNF-a in the body. Additionally, one study found that it was able to improve skin elasticity by 5.9% in just 14 days, and 13.9% in 56 days. 

Vitamin E

Vitamin E is an oil-soluble antioxidant that helps support vitamin C inside the body. Vitamins C and E have a synergistic relationship, with one study confirming that vitamin E increased vitamin C’s efficacy eightfold. On top of that, vitamin C regenerates vitamin E after vitamin E scavenges for free radicals in the body. Finally, vitamin E can help protect against collagen cross-linking, a process during which collagen becomes hard and stiff. That process can cause the skin to appear hard and stiff, and it contributes to accelerated aging. 

Polyphenols

Polyphenols are plant compounds that are types of antioxidants commonly found in fruits and vegetables. According to research, polyphenols can help boost digestion, improve brain function, and protect against several chronic diseases. Additionally, polyphenols have proven effective at helping the skin manage UV exposure. That is particularly important because UV damage is one of the leading causes of collagen breakdown. Although sunscreen is the most effective way to protect the skin, eating more foods rich in polyphenols will help that process.

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There is something magical about seeing a stuffed stocking on Christmas morning. No matter if you are young or old, waking up to a lumpy stocking full of surprises offers a special joy. Once you start taking gifts out of the stocking, though, your excitement may start to fade. That’s where we come in! We’ve put together a solid list of healthy and useful stocking stuffers that everyone will love. 

Nobody needs more socks, underwear, tissues, or lip balm in their stocking. Be creative and nab some fun things that your friends or family will actually use. You don’t have to put a brand new iPhone in the stocking; rather, keep it low-maintenance, low-cost, and incredibly unique. The stuffers don’t have to be boring, either. You don’t have to choose between candy bars and carrot sticks! 

Which stocking stuffers do you usually gravitate towards? Are you some who enjoys gifting classic holiday indulgences? Do you like finding unique toys or fun miscellaneous items? Leave your old habits behind this year and consider some of the following healthy and useful stocking stuffers. 

Bath Bombs

Taking a relaxing bath is a great form of self-care. Bath bombs only enhance the experience, and often contain ingredients that help encourage healthier skin. It’s up to you if you want to avoid intense colors because those colors can stain tubs. Don’t make more work for your friend or family member! Consider making a quality homemade bath bomb by clicking here. 

Hand Creams

Consider one excellent hand cream, or a variety of hand creams, because everyone could use a little extra moisture during the winter months. Hands tend to dry out and crack this time of year, especially if you are regularly washing them to help keep germs at bay. Both the cold weather and hot water, which your cold hands desperately crave when you want to wash them, will cause dryness, so help your friends or family members replenish moisture with hand cream in their stockings.

Essential Oils

You probably cannot fit an entire diffuser in a stocking, but you can definitely fit some essential oils in there. Distilled from plants, flowers, and seeds, essential oils offer myriad health properties. Typically used for aromatherapy purposes, essential oils can promote a sense of calm, which is a very useful thing during the holiday season and New Year. Peppermint, tea tree, eucalyptus, lavender, and lemon essential oils are great starter oils! Just make sure to get pure essential oils, being careful to examine ingredient lists for potential preservatives.

Herbal Teas

Everyone has someone in their life who loves to drink tea. Maybe they have become a master of matcha or a person who loves herbal varieties. Consider gifting them a unique tea set with various flavors. Typically, there are numerous tea sets available during the holiday season. Maybe you can accompany the different herbal teas with a nice mug, or better yet, an insulated mug that will keep hot beverages warm for hours during the winter. 

Squeezable Nut Butter Packs

Before you go out and purchase nut butter packs, make sure that the person you are buying them for does not have a nut allergy. After you cross that off the list, make sure you purchase high-quality nut butter packs. They can provide necessary protein, healthy fats, and fiber, all of which are great for keeping you full and energized between meals. Plus, they make traveling so much better! They take up very little space and are much healthier options than chips, sugary trail mixes, or salty nut mixes. 

Magnesium Lotion

Are you wondering what magnesium lotion is? First off, magnesium is a vital mineral that is linked to many health benefits, including better sleep, healthy heart, and relaxed muscles. Magnesium lotion can help calm discomfort by soothing the skin and reduce irritation and itchiness. It may also improve skin barrier function and support collagen regeneration. You may have even seen ads for magnesium lotion for babies because it helps them sleep more soundly.

Propolis Throat Spray

Show the immune system a little love with some propolis throat spray. Bees create propolis by combining various plant and tree resins with their own enzymes. It exhibits powerful antimicrobial, antioxidant, and immune-supporting compounds. Should the person you’re gifting this to be prone to sore throats or common colds, it will be of great benefit to them. The flavonoids help to protect and soothe the throat, especially when it is feeling scratchy.

Movie Tickets

This doesn’t necessarily count as a healthy gift, but it is useful to many people. Movie tickets are very expensive these days, so treat someone to a night out at the movies! It’s a great stocking stuffer idea that takes up little to no room. Feel free to include some healthy snacks along with the tickets so that the person can sneak them in the theater! Just don’t tell anyone we told you to do that last part.

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The fall season is all about pumpkin spice lattes, pumpkin muffins, pumpkin loaves, and, naturally, pumpkin pies. Did you ever think that you would take some of that nutrient-dense pumpkin and lather it on your face, though? Well, that’s what Dherbs is for! The DIY face mask in this article contains pumpkin, yogurt, and honey, three ingredients that work to nourish your skin and improve its overall glow.

The great thing about this face mask is that you get to drown your skin in an assortment of enzymes, vitamins, and antioxidants. And that’s just referring to the pumpkin! The honey and yogurt also provide moisturizing and soothing effects. Together, these ingredients will leave your skin feeling hydrated, rejuvenated, and radiating with a natural shine. Learn more about the ingredients below.

Pumpkin Puree

Pumpkin puree offers a significant amount of vitamin A, a necessary nutrient for skin health and repair. One serving of pumpkin can nearly fulfill the recommended daily intake of vitamin A. Pumpkin is also a great source of vitamin C, which is necessary for the synthesis of collagen, which works to keep skin elastic and firm. By increasing collagen production, you can help reduce the appearance of fine lines and maintain a more youthful complexion. Some studies found that pumpkin polysaccharide extract was effective in skin care applications. Other studies found that the beta-carotene in pumpkin acts like a natural sunblock, working to protect the skin from harmful UV rays. Preventing UV damage can help reduce photoaging, which can impose on the skin’s delicate layers.

Yogurt

There are many types of yogurt, but you should not lather strawberry banana yogurt on your face. That stuff is full of sugar and will not do your skin any favors. Also, keep in mind that if you have a cow’s milk allergy, you may want to avoid yogurt, or opt for a plant-based yogurt instead. Yogurt has a creamy texture, which may help lock moisture into the skin. Some in-vitro studies from 2011 backed up those claims when looking at yogurt face masks. Yogurt may also help even out skin tone, which researchers attribute to the naturally occurring probiotics. Similar to pumpkin, yogurt may also help minimize the effects of UV rays. It’s as though yogurt creates a skin barrier that neutralizes free radicals, helping reduce sun damage-induced wrinkles or spots.

Honey

Raw honey may help to exfoliate the skin, reduce bacteria buildup, and accelerate the healing process of small wounds. Researchers note that raw honey contains beneficial components for the skin, especially if you have acne or an inflammatory skin disorder, such as eczema or psoriasis. Working to balance bacterial buildup on the skin, honey may be significantly more effective than other skin care products. You can use raw honey as a spot treatment or include it in a face mask to help reduce inflammation and redness. Some people report that honey helps to get rid of blemishes! If you can, strive to get Manuka honey, as this is unpasteurized and filled with healing properties. 

Pumpkin Yogurt And Honey Face Mask

Ingredients:

• 2 teaspoons organic pumpkin puree
• 1/2 teaspoon raw honey (or Manuka honey)
• 1/4 tablespoon unflavored Greek yogurt

Instructions:

• Add all of the ingredients to a small bowl and whisk to combine. 
• Apply the mask to your face and neck and allow it to sit for 15 minutes. 
• Rinse away with lukewarm water and pat your face dry. Follow with moisturizer.

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The fall season invites delicious seasonal produce items, cooler weather, and the beautiful changing of leaves. It is also a time of year when you are typically exposed to germs, due to lots of activities, traveling, and holiday gatherings. All that is wonderful, but it never hurts to have a little extra immune support to help you get through the season. That’s why we recommend that you keep a couple bottles of propolis throat spray in the house!

What Is Propolis?

Honey is not the only thing that bees make. Bees produce propolis, a compound from the sap on needle-leaved trees or evergreens. According to historians, Greeks used propolis to treat abscesses and Egyptians used it to embalm mummies. Assyrians applied propolis to wounds and tumors to help fight infection and accelerate the healing process. 

The composition of propolis varies depending on the location of the bees and which trees or flowers they have access to. Propolis in Europe, for example, will not have the same chemical makeup as propolis from New Zealand. Continue reading to learn more about the purported benefits of propolis. 

Healing Compounds In Propolis

According to researchers, there are more than 500 compounds in propolis. The majority of those compounds are in the form of polyphenols, which are antioxidants that fight oxidative stress in the body. Propolis also contains flavonoids, which plants produce as a form of protection. Researchers note that they are commonly found in fruits, green tea, vegetables, and red wine. Propolis is also rich in amino acids, vitamins A, C, and E, and some minerals like magnesium and potassium. 

The research suggests that propolis exhibits antiviral, antibacterial, anti-fungal, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties. Propolis contains pinocembrin, a flavonoid that acts like an antifungal. It also exhibits antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory activity that may help with the healing of wounds, including burns. A 2019 review found that propolis works to stimulate collagen production in the skin, which could further support wound healing. 

Regarding oral health, a 2021 review of studies found that propolis may help treat mouth and throat infections. Researchers believe that propolis’ antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties could play a role in improving overall oral health. More research is still necessary on this topic, though. 

How To Make A Propolis Glycerite

There are really only two ways to make this propolis throat spray. You can buy pre-made propolis glycerite or make your own. A glycerite is similar to an herbal tincture, but it calls for vegetable glycerin instead of alcohol. Glycerites take six weeks to make, though, so you may want to consider the pre-made one if time is an issue. In order to make the propolis extract with glycerite, do the following:

• Place 2/3 cup of propolis powder in a 16-ounce glass jar. 
• In a separate jar, combine 3/4 cup glycerin with 1/4 cup of distilled water and mix well. 
• Pour the glycerin and water mixture over the propolis powder and stir to combine. Screw on the lid and shake once daily for six weeks. 
• After six weeks, strain the liquid through a coffee filter into a clean jar. You may need to do this twice to remove all the powder. 

Homemade Propolis Throat Spray

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon propolis glycerite (see above recipe)
• 2 teaspoons raw honey (or Manuka honey)
• 3/4 teaspoon distilled water

Instructions:

• Combine the propolis glycerite, honey, and water in a small spray bottle and shake well to combine. 
• Add a little more water, 1/8 teaspoon at a time, to get the right consistency. Ideally, you want the mixture to be thick enough to coat the throat, but thin enough to come out of the spray bottle. 
• To use, spray at the first sign of illness. Squirt a few sprays directly into the throat to help keep inflammation down.

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