During pregnancy, the body undergoes a lot of changes beyond the growing bump. In addition to the hormonal shifts and hunger cravings, many pregnant people develop stretch marks on their belly, thighs, hips, breasts, and more. There is no miracle solution to prevent these pregnancy stretch marks, but there are moisturizing oils, butters, and balms that may help reduce the appearance. 

Stretch marks are scars that occur under the skin. They appear when the skin stretches quickly, for example, during pregnancy, rapid weight gain or loss, and puberty. Using a natural stretch mark cream while pregnant helps hydrate and moisturize the belly as it expands. That may help reduce the appearance of stretch marks, but there is one thing to remember: stretch marks are perfectly natural, even if you dislike the look of them. In this article, we’ll cover some ingredients that may help reduce the appliance of stretch marks during or after pregnancy. 

Coconut Oil

As previously mentioned, stretch marks scar under the skin. According to studies, the skin can easily absorb coconut oil, whereby it may prevent free radical damage. This is due to the lauric acid content, which easily penetrates the skin’s layers and has a positive effect on collagen production. Coconut oil is highly emollient and works to keep the skin moisturized. That makes the skin more elastic and less prone to stretch marks. The anti-inflammatory properties also aid with the healing process of existing stretch marks over time. More studies are necessary to prove whether or not coconut oil can reduce stretch mark appearance, though.

Sweet Almond Oil

A great source of nourishment for the skin, sweet almond oil is an excellent moisturizing agent and may help the skin look more youthful. It may be a great home remedy for stretch marks as well. Stretch marks can be accompanied by dry skin or general irritation, and almond oil can help keep those symptoms at bay. Sweet almond oil works to enhance skin barrier function, penetrating layers of the epidermis, which may benefit stretch marks. 

Shea Butter

Shea butter works to hydrate the skin and improve skin cell growth. Skin that is more healthy and supple is much less likely to scar. Stretching that causes stretch marks, especially during pregnancy, can be quite extreme. Although keeping the skin moisturized will help reduce the appearance, it will not prevent stretch marks from occurring. That means that shea butter cannot prevent stretch marks, but it can help minimize the amount of damage. Areas of skin that already have stretch marks may benefit from shea butter application. Shea butter contains triglycerides and esters that help lock moisture in and improve skin barrier function.

Cocoa Butter

Recent research found that civilizations have used cocoa butter since 445 A.D. for its medicinal properties. Cocoa butter contains catechin, a naturally occurring antioxidant that exhibits antibacterial properties. Cocoa butter also penetrates the skin more easily than other butters. It’s the only butter that can reach down to the middle layer of the skin, the dermis. This layer possesses the connective tissue, which is responsible for collagen and elastin production. By enhancing the production of these two proteins, cocoa butter may encourage skin regeneration and help reduce or prevent stretch marks. 

DIY Belly Butter For Stretch Marks

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons each: sweet almond oil, coconut oil, shea butter, cocoa butter
• 1.5 tablespoons beeswax
• 3 teaspoons vitamin E oil
• 20 drops neroli essential oil (optional)
• 15 drops helichrysum essential oil
• 15 drops lavender essential oil
• 10 drops lemon essential oil

Instructions:

• Add the sweet almond oil, coconut oil, shea butter, cocoa butter, and beeswax to the top of a double boiler over medium-low heat. Stir as the ingredients melt. 
• Once melted, stir the mixture and pour into a four-ounce container. Allow the mixture to harden completely. 
• Remove the hardened mixture and place into a bowl, where you’ll mix in the vitamin E oil and essential oils. Mix well to combine and then put the mixture back into a glass container, preferably one with dark glass. 
• Apply this butter at least once a day and allow it to soak in for 15 minutes before putting clothes over it, because it is quite oily. Store in a cool, dark place.

SHARE:

The post DIY Belly Butter For Stretch Marks appeared first on Dherbs - The Best All Natural Herbal Remedies & Products.

In skin care products, there are two types of ingredients: the high-tech, lab-made molecules, and natural ingredients from plants. Honey falls under the latter category and it’s been used for both medicinal and beauty applications for thousands of years. Ancient Sumerian tablets indicate that humans used honey in cosmetics as early as 2100 BC. It’s fair to say, then, that honey is one of the oldest natural skin care ingredients. 

What Is Manuka Honey?

There are many types of honey, with one of the most prized varieties being Manuka honey. This semi-opaque, creamy honey is made from the nectar of the Manuka plant. Native to New Zealand and Australia, the Manuka bush blooms small whitish pink flowers. Most honey that you purchase is made from a variety of different flower nectars, but Manuka honey is exclusively crafted from Manuka flowers. Because of that distinction, Manuka honey has a rich golden hue and high concentration of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. In fact, various studies confirm that Manuka honey has a higher pH and sugar content than other honeys, and researchers believe that those attributes enhance the antibacterial activity. 

The Antibacterial Properties

In the late 1800s, researchers discovered that honey contains glucose oxidase, an enzyme that converts sugar into a mild, bleach-like antiseptic you probably have at home: hydrogen peroxide. What makes Manuka honey so valuable is that in addition to hydrogen peroxide, it contains methylglyoxal. This compound is an even stronger antibacterial agent than hydrogen peroxide. Some studies suggest that it may fight against strong bacteria like Staphylococcus or E.coli. What does that mean for your skin? The antibacterial activity in Manuka honey may help combat blemishes, infections, and even impetigo. 

Keeps Skin Hydrated And Soft

Honey is probably not the first ingredient you think of in regards to moisturizing the skin. Manuka honey may be very effective at battling dry, cracked skin because it exhibits emollient and humectant properties. Emollients fill the spaces between the cracks to promote softer skin, whereas humectants draw moisture from the air into the skin to boost hydration. Manuka honey is also useful for fighting flaky skin and general irritation, both of which are symptoms of dry or dehydrated skin. 

May Reduce Signs Of Aging

Manuka honey exhibits anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, which work to fight bacteria and promote healing. Additionally, Manuka honey provides optimal moisture, which is vital if you want to reduce signs of aging. Dry and cracked skin is more prone to wrinkles, discoloration, age spots, and fine lines. The antioxidants in Manuka honey also promote healing and may even enhance collagen production, which keeps the skin looking younger. Plus, the bleach-like qualities from the hydrogen peroxide in Manuka honey may help clear up skin discolorations. 

Manuka Honey Body Butter

Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup each: coconut butter, coconut oil, and shea butter
• 1 tablespoon Manuka honey

Instructions:

• Put the coconut butter, coconut oil, and shea butter in a saucepan over medium-low heat. Keep on the heat until fully melted. 
• Remove from the heat and pour the mixture into a heat-safe bowl. Allow the mixture to sit until it is opaque. You can accelerate this process by putting the mixture in the fridge for about 30 minutes. 
• Once the mixture is ready, use a hand mixer to whip it up. Add the Manuka honey and continue whipping with the hand mixer until light and fluffy. 
• Transfer the body butter to a glass container and store in the fridge until ready to use.

SHARE:

The post Moisturizing Manuka Honey Body Butter appeared first on Dherbs - The Best All Natural Herbal Remedies & Products.

Eczema, or atopic dermatitis, is a chronic skin condition that typically presents dry, itchy patches on the skin. The inflammation, itchiness, and redness can lead to cracked or swollen skin, or even blisters. Dermatologists typically prescribe steroid creams to help control the condition, but you can go a more natural route. Homemade eczema creams harness the power of natural ingredients to moisturize the skin and calm inflammation. 

Believe it or not, homemade creams can be very effective at reducing eczema symptoms. The reason for this is because they contain nourishing, moisturizing ingredients that exhibit anti-inflammatory properties. Some of these ingredients include shea butter, coconut oil, oatmeal, and aloe vera, all of which help relieve itching and promote healing. In fact, research shows that shea butter contains beneficial compounds that exhibit potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity. 

Please note that if eczema symptoms are severe or persistent, you may require over-the-counter or prescription-strength creams/ointments. Those products often contain active ingredients like immunomodulators or corticosteroids, which work to control symptoms and reduce inflammation. If you want to go the more natural route before resorting to those treatments, the following creams may provide relief. 

Baby Butter Balm

A baby’s skin is very sensitive, so prioritizing gentle and safe ingredients for eczema treatment is paramount. When using the following cream on a baby’s skin, make sure to do a small patch test before applying to the affected area. 

Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup shea butter 
• 2 tablespoons coconut oil
• 1 teaspoon ground oatmeal 

Instructions:

• In a small heat-safe bowl, melt the shea butter and coconut oil in the microwave or in the top of a double boiler. You can also make your own version of a double boiler and melt those ingredients that way. 
• Once the shea butter and coconut oil are fully melted, remove from the heat source and allow it to cool for a few minutes. 
• Add the ground oatmeal to the melted mixture and stir to combine. Transfer to a clean, airtight container and allow it to solidify at room temperature. Use when ready. 

Soothing Oatmeal Cream

Known for its soothing properties, oatmeal has been used for centuries to remedy skin conditions, including eczema and psoriasis. Oats contain compounds, such as beta-glucans, that work to reduce itching, calm inflammation, and relieve dry or irritated skin. 

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup oats
• 1/4 cup coconut oil
• 2 tablespoons raw organic honey
• 10 drops lavender essential oil (optional)

Instructions:

• For the oats, you can either use regular rolled oats or you can add them to a food processor and blend them into a powder. The choice is yours. 
• In a large bowl, combine the oats, coconut oil, and honey, mixing until thoroughly combined. Add the lavender essential oil (if using) and mix again. 
• Apply a small amount of the cream to the affected areas and gently massage into the skin. Leave the cream on for a few minutes so that the ingredients can penetrate the skin. 
• Rinse with lukewarm water and pat dry. Store the remaining cream in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. 

Aloe Vera & Olive Oil Eczema Balm

Olive oil is a natural moisturizer that works to hydrate the skin and enhance skin barrier function. The antioxidants and healthy fats in olive oil work to nourish and soothe dry, itchy skin. Aloe vera exhibits powerful anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce redness and itching, all the while providing a cooling sensation. A six-week study compared the effectiveness of Olivederma (a combination of olive oil and aloe vera) and betamethasone (a corticosteroid) for eczema treatment. The study found that both the Olivederma and betamethasone reduced eczema severity, but Olivederma showed greater improvement.

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon cocoa butter
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/4 cup aloe vera gel
• 10 drops rosehip oil (optional)

Instructions:

• Add the cocoa butter to the top of a double boiler over medium-low heat and stir occasionally until melted. 
• Once the cocoa butter is melted, pour in the olive oil and remove from heat. Pour the aloe vera gel into the mixture and stir to combine. 
• Add the rosehip oil (if desired) and then transfer the mixture to a clean, airtight container. Allow it to cool completely before you use it. Store in a cool, dark place.

SHARE:

The post 3 Homemade All-Natural Creams For Eczema Relief appeared first on Dherbs - The Best All Natural Herbal Remedies & Products.

Beach trips, days at the lake, and backyard barbecues are synonymous with two things: summer and sunburns. If you don’t protect your skin, it can burn within 30 minutes of being out in the sun. And if you’ve suffered a bad sunburn, then you understand how miserable it can be. It is possible that some of your efforts to protect your skin fall through the cracks, and you end up with a sunburn. Fortunately, you can soothe sunburnt skin with the after sun lotion in this article. 

We want to be clear and say that this after sun lotion is not a miracle cure. It will not make your sunburn vanish within an hour, nor will it undo the damage done to your skin. It can, however, provide some relief and replenish your skin with moisture. Additionally, this after sun lotion may accelerate your recovery, hydrating your skin in the process. As a quick note, try to stay out of the sun while recovering from a sunburn. 

Aloe Vera

Aloe vera and sunburns go together like peanut butter and jelly. For thousands of years, different civilizations have used aloe vera to treat various skin conditions, such as burns and minor wounds. Some people refer to aloe vera as the “burn plant” because it is highly effective at soothing burns and sunburns. However, when applying aloe vera topically, it can quickly evaporate from the skin, so you may not absorb all of the medicinal properties. For this reason, it can be beneficial to mix it with something that provides a barrier to lock moisture into the skin. That brings us to the next ingredient.

Shea Butter

A go-to in many DIY beauty recipes, shea butter provides excellent moisturizing properties and other noteworthy benefits. If you have dull or dry skin, shea butter can help it retain moisture by forming a protective layer on the skin’s surface. That ultimately reduces water loss and keeps the skin more supple and hydrated. Shea butter also contains vitamins A and E, both of which contribute to a more youthful appearance. Who doesn’t want that? Lastly, shea butter works to promote cell regeneration, which can help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. 

Coconut Oil

If you apply coconut oil to the skin after some time in the sun, it can provide a cooling feeling and may even relieve sunburn symptoms. The saturated fats in coconut oil are excellent for moisturizing the skin. Plus, dermatologists agree that coconut oil aids every aspect of a sunburn. Not only does it have a soothing feel after application, but it also deeply hydrates the skin to repair damage done by the sun. 

Lavender Essential Oil

Great for calming the intensity of a sunburn, lavender essential oil is gentle enough for you to topically apply it with a carrier oil on damaged skin. Because of the linalool and linalyl acetate content, lavender essential oil works to reduce the pain of a severe sunburn. Lavender essential oil also contains antibacterial, carminative, and anti-fungal properties, all of which help to accelerate the healing process of a sunburn. 

DIY After Sun Lotion

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup shea butter
• 3 tablespoons coconut oil
• 3 tablespoons organic aloe vera gel
• 1 tablespoon rosehip oil
• 30 drops lavender essential oil

Instructions:

• You will need a stand mixer or a hand mixer to make this recipe. 
• Break up the shea butter into small chunks and place in the mixer. Whip on high for 20 seconds and then stop to scrape down the sides. 
• Add the coconut oil and whip for 20 seconds before stopping to scrape down the sides. Add the aloe vera gel and then whip for another 20 seconds. 
• Repeat this process when you add the rosehip oil and then the lavender essential oil, adding them one at a time and then mixing well. The after sun lotion should be creamy and easy to remove with a silicone spatula. 
• Store in a glass jar in a cool, dry place. Apply to sunburnt skin without being too aggressive. It’s best to apply the lotion after a cold shower.

SHARE:

The post The Best DIY After Sun Lotion appeared first on Dherbs - The Best All Natural Herbal Remedies & Products.

Eczema is an inflammatory skin condition that can cause itchiness, dry skin, blisters, scaly patches, rashes, and skin infections. Itchy skin is the most common symptom of the condition, which affects more than 31 million Americans. Within that statistic, people experience different forms of eczema, including contact dermatitis, atopic dermatitis, nummular eczema, seborrheic dermatitis, and dyshidrotic eczema. 

Many people with eczema use the word “flare-up” to describe one or more acute symptoms from prolonged itchiness. If flare-ups reach a certain point, antihistamines, corticosteroids, or topical steroid creams are the usual treatment options that healthcare providers recommend. Some people don’t want to resort to these medications and prefer to experiment with natural solutions to manage the condition. While the ingredients in this body butter do not cure the condition, they may calm flare-ups and reduce itchiness on eczema-prone skin. You can learn more about some of the ingredients below. 

Coconut Oil

Working to soften dry, brittle skin (a common symptom of eczema), coconut oil helps prevent skin breakups that invite microbes into cracks. As most of you know, coconut oil is a great moisturizer because the skin can easily absorb it. One randomized, double-blind study from 2014 found that virgin coconut oil had a greater effect than mineral oil in 117 patients with mild eczema symptoms. Compared to extra virgin olive oil, virgin coconut oil was able to better moisturize dry skin and remove the Staphylococcus aureus bacteria in 126 eczema patients. 

Shea Butter

Another wonderful moisturizing ingredient, shea butter is rich in beneficial fatty acids that rejuvenate the skin. In fact, the fatty acids in shea butter work to accelerate the renewal of skin cells, in addition to supporting circulation. Shea butter contains a few derivatives of cinnamic acid, which exhibits anti-inflammatory properties. The vitamin E in shea butter benefits the skin by promoting softness and providing relief from dryness. One research study found that 74% of patients with eczema reported a significant relief from symptoms after using a cream containing shea butter. Researchers believe that shea butter’s ability to prevent trans-epidermal water loss was a primary reason for this relief. 

Calendula Oil

If you have eczema, including calendula oil in your skin care routine is a great idea. It is rich in anti-inflammatory properties that work to reduce both itchiness and swelling in affected areas. Researchers note that calendula oil can help disinfect wounds, minor cuts, and mild skin irritations, primarily due to the inherent antimicrobial, antiviral, and antifungal properties. Calendula oil also works to stimulate the production of collagen, which can assist with the healing process. In fact, one study monitored eczema patients who used topical applications containing calendula. Many participants reported that it soothed irritation, itching, and helped improve the healing process. 

Castor Oil

Castor oil contains ricinoleic acid, which works to draw dirt, dead skin cells, and microbes from the skin. It also helps stimulate lymphatic flow and encourage the growth of healthy tissues. By promoting optimal circulation, castor oil works to remove cellular toxins, which in turn reduces inflammation in the body. According to researchers, castor oil is very effective at hydrating and moisturizing the skin. In fact, it may relieve pain and treat infection, making it an ideal ingredient for eczema patients. Lastly, the antifungal, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties in castor oil have been thoroughly documented.

Anti-Itch Whipped Body Butter

Ingredients:

• 3 tablespoons raw, unrefined shea butter
• 5 tablespoons virgin, unrefined coconut oil
• 1/2 tablespoon castor oil
• 1 tablespoon calendula oil
• 1 tsp vitamin E oil
• 15 drops lavender essential oil
• 7 drops tea tree oil (therapeutic grade)

Instructions:

• In the top of a double boiler over medium-low heat, add the shea butter, coconut oil, and castor oil. Stir occasionally until everything is thoroughly melted. 
• Remove from heat and pour the melted mixture into a heat-safe glass bowl and allow the mixture to cool at room temperature for an hour. You can place the bowl in the refrigerator and chill it for 20 minutes, or until it starts to solidify.
• Using an electric hand mixer, whip the partially solidified mixture for a few minutes. Add the calendula oil, vitamin E oil, and lavender and tea tree essential oils and whip for another several minutes, or until the mixture is nice and fluffy. 
• Spoon the body butter into an airtight glass jar and store in a cool, dark place. It will keep fresh for one to two months, or longer if you store it in the fridge. Just keep it away from direct sunlight.

SHARE:

The post Anti-Itch Whipped Body Butter For Eczema Prone Skin appeared first on Dherbs - The Best All Natural Herbal Remedies & Products.

This colloidal oatmeal body butter may be the best skin-softening and moisturizing butter to date! It is rich in three different butters: shea butter, mango butter, and hokum butter. Despite being rich in these natural butters, this body butter applies easily to the skin without feeling heavy. Plus, the subtle amount of lavender essential oil gives this body butter a relaxing scent and extra skin-soothing properties. 

What Is A Body Butter?

A homemade body butter is a nutrient-dense cream that consists of natural oils and butters that nourish and protect the skin. It is not a lotion; rather, a body butter gives your skin a dewy glow and non-greasy finish. At room temperature, a body butter should be semi-solid, compared to a lotion that is almost always thicker. Lotions typically contain artificial scents and other chemicals, whereas a homemade body butter contains natural, unrefined ingredients. For more information about some of the key ingredients in this body butter, continue reading. 

Kokum Butter

Derived from the seeds of the kokum tree, kokum butter has a gray or pale yellow tint and is very rich in stearic acid, a type of saturated fat. This fat’s chemical structure allows kokum butter to remain solid at room temperature. Kokum butter can be used to improve the moisture content of almost every part of the body, including the feet, lips, skin, scalp, and hair. It is quite light and it is a powerful emollient and moisturizing agent. One study found that kokum butter was able to significantly improve symptoms of cracked heels after applying it twice daily for 15 consecutive days. More research is necessary on this butter, but initial research is very promising, and researchers are interested in the antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. 

Mango Butter

Mango butter is slightly less popular than cocoa and shea butters, but it comes with a wide range of health benefits. It exhibits a subtle scent and, just like kokum butter, is very lightweight and slickly smooth. Mango butter is an excellent source of vitamin A, an antioxidant that stimulates the skin’s natural renewal process. Vitamin A encourages the skin to produce new, healthy skin cells. Mango butter is highly moisturizing as well, improving the overall texture and elasticity of the skin. Do you suffer from dry, itchy, or inflamed skin? Mango butter may provide the necessary nourishment that your skin needs to ease inflammatory skin conditions. 

Colloidal Oatmeal

For centuries, colloidal oatmeal has been a natural remedy for dry, irritated skin. It is made by grinding oat grain into a fine powder. Considered an emollient, colloidal oatmeal is a substance that softens the skin because it contains fats, minerals, and other skin-nourishing nutrients. Studies confirm that colloidal oatmeal boasts impressive antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties that fight oxidative stress on the skin. One study found that colloidal oatmeal has a unique chemical structure that reduces cytokines, proteins that cause inflammation, on the skin. People with eczema and other inflammatory skin conditions can help manage symptoms, including flare-ups, with colloidal oatmeal. Similarly, colloidal oatmeal can soothe general dryness or irritation. 

DIY Colloidal Oatmeal Body Butter

Ingredients:

• 1.5 ounces shea butter
• 0.5 ounces kokum butter
• 0.4 ounces mango butter
• 1.5 ounces sweet almond oil
• 0.1 ounce vitamin E oil
• 1.5 tablespoons colloidal oatmeal
• 4 drops lavender essential oil

Instructions:

• Add the shea butter, kokum butter, and mango butter to a microwave-safe container and melt these butter in the microwave in 30-second intervals. It should take about a minute and a half to fully melt the butters. 
• Pour the melted butter mixture into a mixing bowl and add the sweet almond oil and vitamin E oil. Use a spatula to mix up the ingredients, cover the bowl, and then place in the refrigerator for 45 minutes to an hour. 
• Remove from the fridge and add the colloidal oatmeal and lavender essential oil. Using a hand mixer, whip the mixture until it is light and fluffy. 
• Spoon the whipped butter into several glass jars and store them in a cool, dark place. You should be able to fill two four-ounce jars or one eight-ounce jar.

SHARE:

The post DIY Colloidal Oatmeal Body Butter appeared first on Dherbs - The Best All Natural Herbal Remedies & Products.

There are those who can’t live without lip balms, and others who only purchase lip balms as an afterthought at the grocery store. You know those people, the ones that load their groceries on the conveyor belt and snag a lip balm just because. Lip balm is not a “just because” item, people. Your lips require extra love and attention, and the best way to do that is to supply them with natural, non-toxic ingredients. 

You can’t get much more non-toxic than making your own lip balm. And don’t worry about it costing an arm and a leg because that is not the case. Not only do the ingredients in this lip balm make your lips feel hydrated and moisturized, but they also smell incredible. In fact, this lip balm smells so great that you may want to eat it! Please don’t, though, because you don’t need to eat a combination of oils, shea butter, and beeswax. To learn more about some of the standout ingredients in this cinnamon honey lip balm, continue reading.

Honey

Honey is a great ingredient to use for dry or chapped lips. Researchers note that honey exhibits antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and wound-healing properties. It won’t heal a giant gash in your arm, but it may accelerate the healing of small cracks in the skin. Applying honey to dry or chapped lips can protect them from cracking or infection. Additionally, honey can promote healing and provide your lips with moisture. 

Coconut Oil

Coconut oil is known for its moisturizing properties, making it an ideal ingredient for chapped lips. The reason your lips are susceptible to moisture loss is because the skin is so thin, and they are always exposed to the elements. Coconut oil is an emollient, meaning it helps to keep the skin moist and protected. Emollients trap moisture into the skin, so the best time to apply them is after bathing, or washing your face in the case of a lip balm. Research indicates that coconut oil has potential disinfecting and antimicrobial properties, which may keep your lips germ-free and protected. 

Apricot Oil

Apricot oil is a cosmetic oil made from apricot kernels. It has a variety of skin and hair care benefits, but do not ingest it, as it is only intended for cosmetic purposes. In regards to the lips, apricot oil may enhance moisture levels and prevent chapping. The skin can easily absorb this oil, and it applies with a smooth glide. Apricot oil may also soften the skin on your lips and protect them from dryness and cracking. It may even keep your lips looking soft and luscious. 

Homemade Cinnamon Honey Lip Balm

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon beeswax pellets
• 1 tablespoon shea butter
• 2 teaspoons coconut oil
• 1 teaspoon apricot oil
• 6 drops cinnamon essential oil
• 1 teaspoon organic raw honey
• 1 teaspoon vitamin E oil
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

• Pour about an inch or so of water into a small saucepan and place it on the stove over medium heat. Place a heat-safe bowl on top of the saucepan to make your own double boiler. 
• Add the beeswax, shea butter, coconut oil, and apricot oil to the bowl and heat until completely melted, stirring occasionally. 
• Once melted, remove the bowl from heat and then stir in the cinnamon essential oil, honey, vitamin E oil, and vanilla extract. 
• Carefully pour this mixture into metal containers or lip balm tubes and allow the mixture to solidify at room temperature. 
• Once fully cooled, screw on the tops to the container or tubes and store them in a cool dry place. Use as needed.

SHARE:

The post Homemade Cinnamon Honey Lip Balm appeared first on Dherbs - The Best All Natural Herbal Remedies & Products.

Wouldn’t it be great to use an all-in-one DIY creation that helps remedy dry skin, chapped lips, or even brittle or damaged hair? The shea butter body balm in this article is creamy, luscious, and incredibly hydrating. Tame wild flyaways, provide moisture to dry hands or feet, and protect your skin while sealing in moisture. You can also scent it with your preferred blend of essential oils, depending on what scent you’re after. 

The great part about this body balm is that it will only take 15 minutes of hands-on time to make. The rest of the time is spent waiting for the mixture to solidify before use. You can make this recipe on your own or with kids, allowing them to pick their own personal scents. Some great essential oils to use include rosemary, lemongrass, fir, spruce, sandalwood, grapefruit, bergamot, lemon, frankincense, and lavender. Additionally, make some creative labels for the balm containers as an optional step.

Beeswax

Beeswax is a natural emulsifier that helps bind water and oils. Because of its stability, beeswax is a popular ingredient in makeup and skin care products. Beeswax forms a protective barrier on the skin’s surface, keeping environmental irritants and harsh weather from damaging it. It also exhibits comedogenic properties, allowing the skin to breathe freely, while simultaneously helping it retain moisture. That makes beeswax an excellent ingredient for people with sensitive or acne-prone skin. Beeswax also contains antibacterial, germicidal, anti-inflammatory, and anti-allergenic properties, all of which make it a great base ingredient. It may also help reduce signs of aging and soften the skin.

Shea Butter

Similar to beeswax, shea butter is a common ingredient in skin care products, especially face moisturizers and body lotions. The reason for this is because it works as an emollient, softening and hydrating the skin. Shea butter’s fatty acids, which include oleic, stearic, and linoleic acids, help to improve skin barrier function. Just like beeswax, shea butter helps protect the skin from the damage of environmental pollutants. Research notes that the anti-inflammatory compounds in shea butter help to soothe upset skin. For this reason, shea butter is included in products that help remedy inflammatory skin conditions, such as eczema and psoriasis. 

Jojoba Oil

Jojoba oil has a similar molecular structure and composition to sebum, which the skin produces to maintain moisture. That means that when you apply jojoba oil on your face, it mimics the skin’s sebum to help balance your complexion. As for your hair, sebum coats your strands as well, so jojoba may help boost shine and encourage softer hair after application. Similar to other oils and shea butter, jojoba oil helps soothe dry or irritated skin. Because jojoba oil is a humectant, it forms a protective seal on the skin that prevents future moisture loss. 

DIY Shea Butter Body Balm

Ingredients:

• 3 tablespoons organic shea butter
• 1 tablespoon beeswax
• 1 tablespoon coconut oil
• 3 tablespoons jojoba oil
• 1 teaspoon vitamin E oil
• 10-20 drops essential oils of your choice

Instructions:

• Add the shea butter, beeswax, and coconut oil to a small pourable saucepan over low heat. Stir until completely melted and then remove from heat. 
• Pour in the jojoba oil and vitamin E oil and stir to combine. Add the essential oils of your choices (10-20 drops) and stir well. 
• Pour the mixture into a two-ounce jar and allow it to cool completely. By the time it solidifies, which may take one to two hours, it should be opaque. 
• Place the lid on the jar and store in a cool, dry place. Use on skin, hands, feet, lips, or dry hair.

SHARE:

The post DIY Shea Butter Body Balm appeared first on Dherbs - The Best All Natural Herbal Remedies & Products.

If you have sensitive skin or allergies and are prone to rashes or inflammation, you’re probably used to experimenting with anti-itch creams. Some store bought creams are effective, but they can irritate people with sensitive skin. So what do you do if the solution to your problem is also causing new ones? 

One of the best ways to nourish the skin is to use natural ingredients. Not only do ingredients like shea butter, beeswax, and calendula oil relieve itchiness, but they also offer protection, hydration, and beneficial nutrients. Ideally, you want the skin to absorb the ingredients quickly and efficiently. Without any preservatives or harmful ingredients, the anti-itch cream in this article can address the issue and soothe the skin. The standout ingredients are detailed below. 

Beeswax

Beeswax can help reduce itching and inflammation, especially when used in combination with other ingredients like coconut or almond oil. It works to moisturize the skin and reduce the severity of eczema and psoriasis flare-ups. Both eczema and psoriasis are conditions that cause dry, itchy, or inflamed skin. Beeswax works to combat this irritation by forming a protective barrier on the skin, helping to seal moisture into the skin. It’s also a humectant, meaning it attracts and binds water. Both of these qualities help the skin remain hydrated, which can help soothe flare-ups from either eczema or psoriasis. 

Shea Butter

The great thing about shea butter is that you get the benefits of several ingredients all in one. Shea butter is especially helpful for dry, reactive skin, according to dermatologists. That’s why you typically see shea butter in lotions for people with dry skin. Shea butter, on its own, contains fatty acids that work to lubricate the skin and create a protective barrier that locks moisture in. You can use shea butter for any irritation, from sunburns and chapped lips to bug bites and more. Because shea butter has anti-inflammatory properties, it also helps ease swelling and redness in the skin.

Calendula Oil

Extracted from marigold flowers, calendula oil is often paired with alternative or complementary treatments. Calendula oil exhibits anti-inflammatory, antifungal, and antibacterial properties, making it useful for soothing eczema, relieving diaper rash, and accelerating wound healing. Historically, calendula oil has been used as an antiseptic. Although there isn’t a lot of research to support it, anecdotal reports claim that calendula oil is effective at treating eczema. Calendula oil may also relieve itchiness associated with psoriasis. It works to promote skin hydration and firmness, helping to improve the overall appearance of the skin. 

Homemade Anti-Itch Cream

Ingredients:

• 1 cup calendula oil
• 1/4 cup beeswax pellets
• 1/4 cup shea butter
• 1 teaspoon arrowroot powder
• 2-3 teaspoons bentonite clay
• 10 drops peppermint essential oil
• 10 drops tea tree oil

Instructions:

• Add the calendula oil, beeswax pellets, and shea butter to the top of a double boiler. Stir to combine until fully melted. 
• Once these ingredients are melted, remove from heat and allow to cool for a few minutes. You don’t want the mixture to set, but you don’t want it to be piping hot, either. 
• Transfer the melted mixture into a heat-safe glass bowl and stir in the arrowroot powder and bentonite clay. Make sure to use a wooden utensil while mixing. 
• Add the peppermint essential oil and tea tree oil and mix well before pouring into jars. Once fully cooled, screw on the lids and store the jars in a cool, dry place. 
• Use when ready, but make sure to do a small patch test prior to slathering it on your whole body.

SHARE:

The post Homemade Anti-Itch Cream appeared first on Dherbs - The Best All Natural Herbal Remedies & Products.

With so many skin care products on the market today, choosing the right ones can be very difficult. It’s hard to know which ones are synthetic and which ones are natural. Even the “natural” and “chemical-free” products can contain harmful ingredients. Most products have the potential to benefit your skin, but natural, homemade skin care products are often the better choice. 

It is very difficult to trust products that have a long list of ingredients, especially if you can’t pronounce them. A product may claim to be “natural” or “organic,” but a lot of greenwashing occurs in the beauty industry. That means a company uses misleading labels and language, environmental imagery, or hidden tradeoffs that makes it seem sustainable and natural. In fact, a product can claim to be natural even if it only has a few natural ingredients. A drop of essential oil can make a product natural. These products may also contain ingredients that are not certified natural or organic. 

For those reasons and and more, we encourage people to make their own beauty products when possible. Consider the following reasons to make DIY skin care products. Let us know if you agree or disagree in the comments below. Have you made your own products before? We’d love to hear from you, especially if it was a recipe that we posted!

Better For The Environment

Natural skin care products are simply better for the environment than synthetic alternatives. Synthetic chemicals can harm animals and plants that they come in contact with. If those synthetic chemicals seep into the ground, they can wreak havoc on surrounding ecosystems. The manufacturing of traditional skin care products can also lead to environmental pollution. Companies need to extract certain ingredients, such as aluminum or lead, in order to make products. DIY skin care products don’t need mining or manufacturing because they use simple, natural ingredients. 

You Decide What Goes Into The Products

When you make your own skin care products, you know exactly what goes into them. If a body butter recipe contains shea butter, almond oil, coconut oil, and some essential oils, you know that there are no other fragrances, stabilizers, or chemical additives. Using natural ingredients on the skin helps reduce the risk of common skin reactions that can result from chemicals in skin care products. 

Learn What Works For Your Skin

As previously mentioned, store bought skin care products contain a long list of harmful ingredients. That can make it difficult to determine which ingredients are the best for your skin. The great thing about DIY skin care products is that you can customize them with ingredients that your skin needs. Cater to your skin type or skin condition/ailment to boost the overall health of your skin. You can also research which ingredients have the best compounds, vitamins, and other nutrients that benefit your skin type. 

Streamline Your Routine

Homemade skin care products contain simple ingredients, but they don’t just serve one purpose. What we mean by this is that a facial lotion can double as a deodorant. Homemade shaving cream may also serve as a post-shower moisturizer. Sometimes, you can even use raw ingredients, like shea butter, on their own to help improve skin barrier function and promote hydration and moisture. 

Manufacturing Doesn’t Harm Animals

A lot of big skin care manufacturers continue to test their products on animals. This is a detriment to the wellbeing of animals that receive testing. Fortunately, not all skin care product manufacturers use animal testing, so no harm is done to living beings. These are the more ethical companies that don’t contain a lot of synthetic materials. If you are against inhumane treatment of animals and testing, natural DIY skin care products are the way to go. 

They’re Easier On The Skin

Synthetic skin care products are very harmful to certain skin types. Ingredients in those products can cause swelling, redness, rash, itchiness, or a serious allergic reaction. Look out for paragons, sulfates, synthetic dyes, propylene, petrochemicals, triclosan, and more. You don’t have to worry about that when you use DIY skin care products. Natural ingredients don’t contain chemical irritants and instead of being detrimental to the skin, they actually nourish it.

SHARE:

The post The Top Reasons To Make Your Own Skin Care Products appeared first on Dherbs - The Best All Natural Herbal Remedies & Products.