Nobody wants to look at a picture of themselves and see a whole lot of yellowing their smile. At the same time, harsh whitening strips can irritate the gums and teeth, especially if you are more sensitive to those strips. You don’t have to carefully place whitening strips on your teeth now that you have this homemade toothpaste recipe that helps to whiten teeth. It contains activated charcoal, which is mildly abrasive and helps get you a brighter smile. 

Avoid Harsh Teeth Whitening

If you want a gorgeous smile that’ll stand the test of time in family photos, chemical whiteners may not be your best bet. According to research, chemical whitening strips may cause gum irritation, tooth sensitivity, or permanent enamel damage. What’s even more interesting is that scientists don’t quite know how these strips work exactly, or the effects they have in the long run. 

At-home whitening treatments tend to contain hydrogen peroxide, which helps remove stains or general discoloration. Hydrogen peroxide can be beneficial in certain situations, but it may not be the best ingredient for oral care. Hydrogen peroxide bleaching agents damage dentin, the tooth layer underneath enamel. If you have weaker teeth, you have a greater risk of developing tooth decay. Even though you see a product in stores, that doesn’t mean it is good for your health. 

Whitening Teeth The Natural Way

There are many excellent toothpaste recipes that contain natural ingredients. Some companies offer great options in stores, but they can be quite expensive. If you are on a homemade kick and want to add more DIY recipes to your collection, this toothpaste is a great option. This whitening toothpaste contains beneficial ingredients and stays the same consistency at any temperature. The reason for that is because this recipe does not contain coconut oil, a popular ingredient in DIY oral care recipes. It contains MCT oil, which is derived from coconut oil, but stays liquid at different temperatures. 

This natural toothpaste is not as sweet as the conventional toothpastes you’re familiar with, nor does it foam. It doesn’t contain baking soda, so it won’t be salty like other natural options. This recipe contains a small amount of essential oils for flavoring. 

Essential Oils In Toothpaste

For the record, not every essential oil is safe to put in your mouth. Some are safe for adults and not for children. The quantity of the oil(s) you choose also plays a role. Cinnamon or peppermint essential oils are irritating and you should use these options sparingly, especially when compared to orange essential oil. Essential oils are completely optional for this homemade whitening toothpaste, but they can make it taste better. You may want to use grapefruit or lemon essential oil. 

Before we get to the recipe, we must discuss activated charcoal. It is a great ingredient for whitening teeth because it helps remove surface stains. Incorporating it into a recipe is much better for your teeth because it isn’t as harsh as using it with water alone. Activated charcoal also helps to improve the pH level of your mouth, making it more alkaline to protect against cavities and gingivitis. 

Homemade Natural Whitening Toothpaste

Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup calcium carbonate powder
• 3 tablespoons xylitol powder
• 1/4 cup MCT oil
• 2 teaspoons activated charcoal powder
• 20 drops essential oil of choice (optional and see above information)

Instructions:

• Before you begin, make sure that the xylitol powder is finely ground and not coarse. If necessary, add it to a coffee grinder and blitz until very fine. 
• Add all of the ingredients to a small bowl and whisk to combine. Transfer the mixture to a glass jar or squeeze tube and use as needed when you brush your teeth. 
• Store in a cool area and do not allow water to get into the jar or tube of toothpaste. 

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Self-care is a buzzword that comes up a lot in the emotional and mental health spheres. More than just a wellness term, self-care is often a key component to any activity that helps you make your body feel better. Think of self-care for atopic dermatitis like alternative remedies that help lessen your need for medication in the long run.

What Is Atopic Dermatitis?

Atopica dermatitis (eczema) is a skin condition that causes dry, inflamed, and itchy skin. It is very common in young children, but it can occur at any age. Atopic dermatitis is a chronic condition that can flare up occasionally, causing red, irritated areas on the skin. Although it is irritating, atopic dermatitis is not contagious. Moisturizing regularly and following an anti-inflammatory diet, among other things, can help reduce the risk of flare-ups and irritation. Continue reading to learn more about some science-backed self-care tips of atopic dermatitis. 

Moisturize Twice A Day

Dermatologists encourage people with atopic dermatitis to moisturize within three to five minutes after a bath or shower. The reason for this is because the moisturizer helps to lock in moisture when the skin is still slightly damp. That creates a protective barrier and allows your skin to heal. Not all moisturizers are beneficial, with some being better than others for eczema-prone skin. Choose a moisturizer that is dye- and fragrance-free, and consider a skin barrier cream, which contains lipids and ceramides, both of which are present in a healthy skin barrier. Moisturizers that feel “greasy” are usually the most effective at protecting the skin.

Take Shorter, Cooler Showers

You don’t have to think about conserving water just because you have atopic dermatitis. That said, dry skin (a common trigger of atopic dermatitis) is commonly caused by hot water, especially if you are in it for a long time. When you shower in cool or warm water (not hot), the water is less likely to dry out your skin. Another tip is to limit the time you spend in a bath or shower to about five to 10 minutes maximum. Too much time in the water can irritate the skin. If you have a flare-up, a lukewarm oatmeal bath will help soothe the skin.

Try An Anti-Inflammatory Diet

Inflammation is a healthy response to injury or infection, helping to heal the body. In people with atopic dermatitis, the immune system remains triggered, even when there is no infection or injury. That excess inflammation is a contributing factor to atopic dermatitis. The foods you eat can either help or harm inflammation levels, regardless of overall health. Dietary strategies, such as adopting an anti-inflammatory diet, may help relieve symptoms. It isn’t a specific diet; rather, it is an eating pattern that focuses on more foods that help reduce inflammatory markers in the body. Click here to learn more about an anti-inflammatory diet. 

Use Gentle, Fragrance-Free Cleansers

Certain hand soaps, dish soaps, and face or body washes, especially those with fragrances. Soaps can remove the natural oils on the skin, and damage it as well. Mild, fragrance-free soaps or cleansers are the best for sensitive skin, or for people with atopic dermatitis. Try experimenting with non-soap cleansers that do not contain dyes, fragrances, sulfates, or alcohol, all of which can increase the risk of flare-ups. 

Find Ways To Reduce Stress

Stress affects many aspects of your health, and is a common trigger for atopic dermatitis symptoms. Finding effective ways to manage stress can not only benefit your mental health, but also your atopic dermatitis. Mindfulness is a great technique to help manage stress, as it helps you focus on the present moment. There’s no sense in worrying about the past or future when you can only control the present. Scientific studies have proven that practicing mindfulness regularly can reduce atopic dermatitis flare-ups. Along with lowering stress, mindfulness can help reduce itch perception, which triggers the urge to scratch. Meditation, journaling, and yoga are three great ways to practice mindfulness. 

Exercise is another great way to ease stress, but it isn’t advised for everyone with atopic dermatitis. Too much heat and sweat can increase itching and inflammation. Some helpful ways to exercise with atopic dermatitis include:

• Wearing loose, cotton clothes, which are less irritating than moisture-wicking fabrics
• Choosing activities that elevate your heart rate without making you sweat as much, such as Pilates
• Moisturizing your skin before and after your workout, and showering in lukewarm or cool water after a workout
• Making sure to hydrate with plenty of water during exercise to keep the body and skin hydrated
• Doing workouts indoors in climate-controlled environments so as not to heat up too much

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It’s safe to say that people are not afraid of putting oils on their skin anymore, and rightly so. That’s great, considering that beauty shelves used to be replete with oil-free ads. Applying oil to the skin is not a new practice; rather, many cultures have used oils to benefit the skin for centuries. Various oils exhibit skin-nourishing properties, but you do have to find the right oil for your skin type. 

What Is A Carrier Oil?

A carrier oil is plant-based and tends to have a neutral or mild scent. You can use them on their own, or mix them with other oils, such as essential oils. The great thing about carrier oils is that they do not contain fillers or chemicals that you typically find in store bought skin care products. The main thing to keep in mind when buying these oils, though, is to make sure they are cold-pressed. That is the best method of extraction for preserving their health properties. 

A carrier oil can help to naturally moisturize, protect, and improve the overall quality of the skin. Different carrier oils may benefit certain skin conditions, while others aim to rejuvenate and improve the skin’s appearance. Some can even help you balance oil production, offer anti-aging effects, and enhance the skin barrier. Below, you will find great carrier oils for different skin types. 

Hemp Seed Oil

Hemp seed oil is naturally rich in both omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which help it function as a natural humectant. A humectant is a substance that attracts water, so it helps to hydrate the skin, nails, and even hair. Hemp seed oil is non comedogenic, meaning it will not clog your pores, and that makes it suitable for all skin types, including acne-prone or oily skin. The antioxidants in hemp seed oil work to reduce the signs of aging, while the anti-inflammatory properties soothe irritated skin. 

Sunflower Oil

Beauty experts note that sunflower oil is naturally balanced, meaning it is not too heavy or too light. Sunflower oil is widely available and works to promote skin hydration, protect the skin barrier, and reduce water loss. According to research, sunflower oil is naturally rich in vitamins A, C, and E, which is why it is a common ingredient in anti-aging skin care products. Several studies indicate that the anti-inflammatory properties in sunflower oil benefit people with eczema, or general redness or skin irritation. Use it as a post-shower body oil, an anti-aging mask, or after-sun nourishment. 

Olive Oil

Rich in vitamins A and E, olive oil is a great carrier oil choice if you want to reduce premature signs of aging. Olive oil’s polyphenols, antioxidants, and immune enhancers make it great for skin protection. It works to fight the effects of sun damage and may even soothe inflammation. That said, do not use olive oil topically if you have a history of eczema or allergic contact dermatitis. It has been associated with worsening atopic dermatitis.

Jojoba Oil

Jojoba oil is extracted from the seeds of the jojoba plant, jojoba oil is one of the most common carrier oils in existence. It is beneficial for nearly all skin types and is rich in antioxidants, vitamin E, and nourishing fatty acids. Jojoba oil can help moisturize the skin without leaving a heavy residue behind. You can use jojoba oil if you have combination skin, dry skin, or oily skin because it mimics the skin’s natural oils. Jojoba oil is also a natural emollient, helping to maintain a protective skin barrier. 

Sweet Almond Oil

Sure, almonds are a healthy, filling snack, but have you ever used sweet almond oil to nourish your skin? If you have very sensitive or dry skin, sweet almond oil will be a great moisturizing treat for your skin. It is replete with vitamin E, fatty acids, proteins, and various minerals, all of which encourage healthier skin. You can use sweet almond oil as a body oil, combining it with rose petals for an optimal floral scent and enhanced antioxidant activity.

Argan Oil

Great for the hair and skin, argan oil has been an effective moisturizer and cosmetic oil for centuries. Although evidence-based studies are lacking, argan oil has helped many people reduce premature signs of aging. Some research indicates that argan oil can restore some of the skin’s natural hydration and elasticity after menopause. Its anti-melanin action makes argan oil great for evening out skin tone. Argan oil also works to promote collagen production, replenish the skin with fatty acids, and treat acne.

Avocado Oil

As you know, avocados are naturally rich in fatty acids and beneficial nutrients. That makes avocado oil the perfect oil for moisturizing dry skin. Because it has vitamins A, D, and E, avocado oil helps support collagen production and fights signs of aging, including fine lines and wrinkles. Among other beneficial properties, avocado oil works to moisturize dry skin and fight free radicals, which contribute to early signs of aging.

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Listen to any number of podcasts these days and you’ll likely hear someone talk about their ice bath or cold plunge. Health gurus and average Joes alike swear that submerging their bodies in cold water promotes better mood, more energy, heightened recovery, and less anxiety. The benefits may change from person to person, but one thing is for certain: cold plunges are not accessible to everyone. 

It’s safe to say that the average person doesn’t have a few thousand dollars to drop on a cold plunge. It’s also safe to say that nobody wants to go buy bags of ice at the store every day, nor do they want to buy a commercial-grade ice maker for a makeshift cold plunge. That begs the question: can you achieve the same benefits by standing in a cold shower? Experts believe that cold showers count as a form of cryotherapy, so long as the temperature is cold enough (between 50-59 degrees Fahrenheit. Continue reading to learn more about the benefits of cryotherapy. 

It May Boost Metabolism

When you expose the body to cold temperatures, you can increase the metabolic rate and activate brown adipose tissue, both of which aid weight management. According to a 2022 study, immersing the body in cold water seems to transform adipose tissue, in addition to reducing insulin resistance. The combination of these benefits may also have a positive effect on cardiovascular health and metabolic diseases. 

It May Enhance Circulation

Doctors explain that cold exposure prompts immediate vasoconstriction followed by vasodilation, which improves blood flow to all organs. That is why a lot of people use cold plunges to accelerate exercise recovery. Although cold seems to reduce muscle soreness, it is unclear if the cold benefits muscle function. Improving circulation, regardless of athletic level, is beneficial. When you improve blood flow throughout the body, you help deliver fresh blood and oxygen to major organs, which helps them function optimally.

It May Beautify You

Cryotherapy will not turn back the hands of time, but it may positively impact your hair and skin. Cold water seals hair cuticles and helps lock moisture into hair strands. Additionally, the cold helps the scalp retain moisture content, while hot water strips it of its natural oils. The cold temperature strengthens hair cuticles to strengthen them and keep them healthy over time. Cold temperatures may also benefit people with inflammatory skin conditions, such as eczema, psoriasis, or rosacea. Hot water can dry out the skin and cause slushing, which may pronounce redness in those struggling with it already.

It Can Encourage A Breathwork Practice

When you are in the cold, you have to steady your mind and control your breath. The power of controlling your breath can help you embrace the cold and know how to stay calm in the water. When you can control your breath, you can regulate your stress and stay calm in extreme conditions, such as the frigid water. The more you expose the body to cold and breathe through it, the easier it becomes. 

Are Cold Showers Cold Enough? 

Most of the existing research on cold water immersion therapy is focused on cold plunging or being in a cryochamber for a few minutes. Some studies have found that cold showers are a legitimate form of cryotherapy, provided the water temperature can be between 50-59 degrees Fahrenheit or colder. Some experts believe that cold showers fall under the cold water immersion umbrella.

Getting in a cold shower will have a similar effect to entering a cold lake, ocean, or pool. You don’t get cold as quickly as if you were to enter a cold plunge, but you can still reap some benefits. The last thing to remember is to have access to a heat source after stepping out of the cold shower, so that you can bring up the body’s core temperature to normal range. If you don’t bring core temperature back up after any type of cold immersion therapy, you increase the risk of hypothermia. 

How Long Do You Remain In The Cold Shower?

Typically, you remain in a cold plunge or cryochamber for three minutes. Since a shower does not get as cold, how long do you stand in the water? One study found that 10 minutes of cold exposure can aid muscle recovery, but that’s a long time to just let water run. If you want to reap the brain boosting benefits, the study found that you may only need five minutes or less in the cold. Other research says that two to three minutes of cold exposure is sufficient. Start off with less time in the cold and gradually increase the time.

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If you’ve perused the skin care aisle at any drugstore, you’ve seen bottles of toner. Typically a lightly-tinted or clear liquid, toner is a curious skin care product for many people. There are quite a few misconceptions about its purpose as well. Your reason for using toner depends on the type of skin you have. We are big fans of toner and what it can do for your skin. In this article we will explain how a toner benefits the skin, in addition to providing simple recipes for every skin type. 

What Does A Face Toner Do?

Simply put, toner removes any traces of dirt, impurities, or grime that remain in your pores after cleansing. When you incorporate toner into your skin care routine and use it regularly, you can improve the tightness of pores and overall appearance of skin. Toner also works to restore the skin’s pH level and smooths it out by refining any rough patches. 

Ideally, you want the skin to be at its natural pH as much as possible. The skin has an acid mantle, which is a protective layer on the surface, and it should sit around 5.5 pH. That is slightly acidic, but that is where the skin can function its best and renew itself. That said, toner doesn’t just help to balance the skin’s pH; rather, it also aids with: 

• Hydrating the skin: Spritzing toner on the skin helps to replenish moisture, but make sure to use it before moisturizing the skin.
• Helping other skin care products sink in: Toners help prepare your skin to optimally absorb other products in your skin care routine.
• Removing leftover dirt: Toners act like second cleansers, removing the remains of makeup and general grime that don’t get picked up when you wash your face. 
• Making the skin appear smoother: Apply toner with a cotton round to remove the buildup of dead skin cells, which can make the skin appear smoother. 

How To Make Your Own Toner

It is very easy to make a simple DIY toner for every skin type. If you’ve been looking for a simple toner that doesn’t upset your skin type, consider the following two-ingredient recipes. Let us know if one works for you in the comments below. 

Toner For Sensitive Skin

One of the best ingredients for sensitive skin is rose water, which exhibits powerful antioxidant properties that balance the skin. Rose water also replenishes the skin with moisture and offers soothing properties, making it great for those with sensitive skin. Because of its gentle nature, rose water makes for a great DIY toner. 

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup dried rose buds
• Hot filtered water

Instructions:

• Pour the hot water over the rose buds (enough to submerge them) and allow them to sit for one to two hours. 
• Use a strainer to separate the rose buds from the rose water. Pour the strained rose watering a spray bottle and use when needed.
• Ideally, spritz your face with this rose water twice a day after cleansing. Just store it in the fridge and use it within seven to 10 days. 

Toner For Dry Skin

If you have dry or dull skin, toner can help provide hydration. In the case of this recipe, the rose water helps to soothe the skin and even out skin tone. 

Ingredients:

• Rose water (see above recipe)
• Geranium essential oil

Instructions:

• Use the above recipe to make the rose water. Add three to five drops of geranium essential oil to the rose water and shake to combine. 
• Make sure to shake the bottle before each use. Store in the refrigerator and use within seven to 10 days. 

Toner For Oily And Acne-Prone Skin

Green tea, just like rose water, is rich in powerful antioxidants. It also exhibits anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce redness and acne. The apple cider vinegar works to restore your skin’s pH level back to normal. 

Ingredients:

• 3/4 cup steeped green tea
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar

Instructions:

• After you steep the green tea bag in hot water, allow the tea to come to room temperature before discarding the tea bag. Pro tip: place the tea bag on your eye if you need to reduce puffiness. 
• Pour the green tea and apple cider vinegar into a spray bottle, screw on the lid, and shake to combine. 
• To apply, you can either spritz the toner on your face or apply it to a cotton round and gently pat your face. Store it in the fridge and use it within 10 days.

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Constipation is defined by a person who has not had bowel movement in a few days. Lacking bowel movements while on a trip is referred to as vacation constipation or travel constipation. This can be highly inconvenient and uncomfortable, and it is usually brought on by alterations to your normal routine. Drinking less water, eating meals at odd times, and other alterations can mess up your digestive system and back you up.

What Causes Constipation?

There are several things that can cause constipation. Sometimes, more than one cause at a time is backing you up. The following causes can result in constipation:

• Functional gastrointestinal disorders (IBD or IBS)
• Not going to the restroom when you feel the urge
• Certain vitamins or medications
• Reduced physical activity
• Lack of fiber in your diet 
• Not drinking enough water
• Slow stool movement through the colon

What Causes Travel Constipation?

It is possible for the same causes of regular constipation to cause travel constipation. There are usually other factors at play, though, some of which include:

• Your bowels have not adjusted to your destination
• Changes in the size and timing of your meals
• Increased time spent sitting
• Lack of hydration
• Travel-related stress that affects digestion
• Your sleep schedule is off, due to changing time zones
• The long journey on a plane or road trip limited access to comfortable bathrooms
• Jet lag affects the body as it crosses time zones
• Changes in your exercise routine

If you take the right steps, you can avoid travel constipation and stay regular, wherever your plans take you. Continue reading for tips on how to stay regular while traveling.

Listen To Your Body

This is the first rule to follow because you should go when you feel the urge to go. Ignoring this urge can lead to travel constipation very quickly. If you ignore your body’s urge to eliminate, the stool material stays in your rectum and gets harder. The harder the stool, the harder it is to pass. If you don’t feel comfortable using a public restroom for a bowel movement, try listening to music in your headphones to help you relax and let go. Do your best not to strain! If you can’t eliminate after sitting on the toilet for five to 10 minutes, get up and try again later. 

Move, Eat, And Drink Water At Your Destination

How often your move and what you put in your body dictate how easily and regularly you have bowel movements. Consuming the right foods, drinking enough water, and moving your body can help you avoid constipation during your trip. You don’t have to hit the hotel gym or do HIIT workouts in your room; rather, walking from point A to point B can encourage elimination. Sip water throughout the day, but be mindful of water sources depending on where you’re traveling. Try to incorporate fiber-rich foods, including vegetables, oatmeal, fruits, and legumes into your meals, while also indulging in local delicacies. 

Eat A Good Breakfast

It can be tempting to avoid breakfast while you are on vacation because you either want to sleep in or get the day started. Most people tend to have a bowel movement in the morning, and you’ll enhance that natural urge by consuming a healthy, fiber-rich breakfast. Try to eat a balanced meal and avoid meals that are starch- or protein-heavy. You should, however, consume foods that are rich in healthy fats because they help stimulate the release of hormones that trigger the urge to have a bowel movement.

Drink Lots Of Water

It is very common for people to exert a lot of energy or sweat while traveling, especially in warmer climates. Despite that, it is very common to avoid water, or only drink it when necessary. If you feel that you need water, you are already in a mild state of dehydration. If the body doesn’t have enough fluids, it draws water from fecal matter in the intestines to compensate. That can make stools hard and difficult to pass. While traveling, make a conscious effort to drink plenty of fluids, including water and electrolytes. Regarding fluids, not all fluids are kind to your bowels, such as milk, which has a reputation for causing constipation.

Try To Stay On A Schedule

If you are like most people, then you have your bowel movements narrowed down to a time of day. The body’s internal clock determines hunger, sleep, bathroom needs, and other life patterns. If you keep your body on a consistent schedule, you will help your bowels out a great deal. Whenever possible, make sure you have enough time for a relaxed bathroom visit. That will take less pressure off you and give you a similar bathroom experience to the ones you usually have at home.

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According to a 2023 report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), nearly 90% of Americans don’t eat enough fruits and vegetables. To avoid being a statistic, you buy fruits and vegetables and plan to eat them, but something happens: they go bad before you get the chance to use them. You throw out your produce and don’t even bother to compost because it’s too upsetting to throw money down the drain. 

One report found that about 25% of American families throw away one quarter of the food and beverages they buy. Fruits and vegetables comprise 22% of that, while processed produce (canned fruits and vegetables) contribute another 8% of waste to landfills. We don’t say all this to make you feel guilty; rather, we want to help you make the right changes to keep your produce fresh for longer. 

The primary reason people throw their produce away is because they lack the proper storage knowledge. If you do not store your fruits and vegetables properly, they can spoil easily. Do those greenish-yellow bananas you buy turn brown quickly? Do your herbs turn slimy and brown? What about those cucumbers or apples? If you want to stop throwing your fruits and vegetables away, learn from the following tips. 

Limp, Slimy Lettuce

Big heads of lettuce in the grocery store inspire large bowls of salad and optimal health, as they should. The problem is that storing your lettuce improperly can cause those crispy leaves to become soggy, slimy, and limp. Moisture in the fridge causes most fruits and vegetables to lose their crisp texture and go bad. One way to counteract this is to line your fridge’s vegetable drawer with paper towels or terry-cloth towels. In doing so, the towels absorb excess moisture and keep produce, like your lettuce, crispier for a lot longer. The same rule applies for those bagged salads or tubs of greens!

Sprouting Potatoes

If you are tempted to buy the 10-pound bag of potatoes to save some money, make sure that you store them properly if you aren’t going to use them right away. Potatoes start to sprout more quickly if you keep a large bag on hand. To keep your spuds from sprouting, store them in a cool, dry place with as little moisture and sunlight as possible. Some people have had great success keeping potatoes fresh by throwing an apple in with the potatoes, but some experts warn against this. The reason not to do that is because apples emit ethylene, which can encourage sprouting. 

Mushy, Brown Bananas 

Like apples, bananas emit ethylene gas to ripen themselves. Some people swear that wrapping the top of a banana bunch with plastic wrap delays the ripening process, but that doesn’t solve the issue. Ethylene is produced throughout the banana, not just the stem. The best way to store bananas is to hang them on a hook, so that they get plenty of air circulation. Additionally, don’t store them near apples because the ethylene from apples will cause bananas to ripen more quickly. 

Slimy Mushrooms

Mushrooms are great vegetables that can make their way into myriad dishes, unless they become slimy and unappetizing. To avoid a slimy, mushy mess, make sure that you do not store mushrooms in plastic bags. Plastic traps moisture, which causes mildew and mushy mushrooms. Keep mushrooms in a paper bag so that they can breathe and moisture can escape. If you don’t have paper bags, keep mushrooms fresh by keeping them in their original packaging, but poke holes in the plastic to allow ventilation.

Rubbery Celery

Celery can become tasteless if you allow it to go from crispy to rubbery. You can, however, lengthen its time in the fridge if you store it properly. Experts encourage you to separate, wash, and dry the stalks before wrapping them in aluminum foil. That keeps most of the air and moisture in, while still allowing the ethylene gas to escape. If you store celery in a plastic bag, the moisture stays in the bag, which can accelerate the ripening process and turn your celery rubbery. 

Moldy Berries

Berries can be quite pricey, especially if they are not in season. To ensure that you don’t waste your berry money, protect them by giving them a bath in water for 10 seconds. What about soaking them in a vinegar bath? Well, that can leave a vinegar residue and cause your berries to taste unappetizing. Hot water can inhibit mold growth, according to research. The last step is to make sure that your berries are completely dry before storing them in the fridge. The hot water bath and proper drying before fridge storage can help extend their ripeness.

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Get ready for a little zing on your taste buds! This cucumber smoothie is packed with nutrient-dense ingredients, including avocado, spinach, hemp seeds, cucumber, and ginger. It is both light and creamy and avoids the common banana as a thickening ingredient. Plus, this smoothie helps incorporate a variety of ingredients that you may not otherwise use in a smoothie. That is just one of the reasons we love this smoothie! The more diverse your intake of fruit and vegetables is, the healthier you can be!

Cucumber is not an ingredient that typically shows up in a smoothie. It is, however, a common ingredient in juice because it has a high water content. Cucumbers offer some pretty amazing health benefits, including:

• Easing feelings of anxiety
• Reducing the risk of certain cancers
• Supporting optimal brain, digestive, and heart health
• Freshening your breath

Additionally, cucumbers provide a lot of water to help you meet your daily hydration needs. One medium cucumber contains 287 grams of fluid, or about 10 ounces of water. Cucumbers also contain dozens of antioxidants, including flavonoids that work to protect against heart disease. Flavonoids exhibit antioxidant properties that help lower LDL (bad) cholesterol levels. That is the type of cholesterol that increases the risk of stroke and heart disease. It’s safe to say that cucumbers are health superstars!

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For many years, people have been advised against using oils on the skin to keep it clear. For this reason, people purchase oil-free skin care products in hopes of achieving clearer skin. According to researchers, there are surprising benefits to applying oils on the skin. In fact, certain oils have soothing and calming properties that can benefit irritated or inflamed skin. Other oils can help cleanse the skin, remove makeup, and reduce the risk of breakouts. 

What Is Cleansing Oil?

A cleansing oil is an oil-based cleanser that has the ability to remove makeup, surface debris, and excess oil from the skin. They work differently from water-soluble cleansers, which have a gel, cream, or foaming texture. Those traditional cleansers use surfactants, which are ingredients that interact with makeup, surface debris, or oil on the skin in a way that allows you to rinse them away with water. If a cleanser contains hydrating ingredients, it will feel smooth and soft on the skin. Cleansing oils may also contain surfactants, but they are not the primary ingredients; rather, the oils do the work to cleanse the skin.

Benefits Of Cleansing Oils

First of all, the best cleansing oils for the skin contain non-fragrant plant oils. Those oils offer beneficial glycerides, which help remove grime, makeup, and more, while simultaneously hydrating your skin. Some of the primary benefits of using a cleansing oil include:

• They leave the skin feeling smooth and supple
• Compatible with most cleansers, should you want to double cleanse
• They aid with the quick and easy removal of most sunscreens and makeup types

How Do Cleansing Oils Work?

Oils do not simply moisturize or hydrate the skin, even though there is a difference between those two actions (click here for more info). Oils work as solvents, which are a group of ingredients that dissolve similar substances. If you remember chemistry class, like dissolves like, meaning polar compounds dissolve polar compounds. Polar and nonpolar compounds do not dissolve in each other, hence why oil and water don’t mix. 

Oils are lipophilic, meaning they are attracted to other oils, including sebum, which is what the skin produces. They are also attracted to oil-like ingredients in makeup, which is what gives them their ability to quickly dissolve makeup and excess oil.

Who Should Use A Cleansing Oil?

If a cleansing oil is made to be rinsable with water, then it is generally safe for all skin types. The use of a cleansing oil depends on a couple things: personal preference and how much long-wearing makeup or water-resistant sunscreen you wear. A good cleansing oil will break these products down easily. Just make sure that your cleansing oil does not contain any problematic ingredients, such as fragrances. Fortunately, you don’t have to worry about that with the following cleansing oil recipe. Please enjoy and let us know if it works for you in the comments below. 

Homemade Cleansing Oil

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup jojoba oil
• 1/4 cup + 2 teaspoons grapeseed oil
• 2.5 teaspoons castor oil
• 2 tablespoons + 1 teaspoon cromollient SCE
• 1/4 teaspoon vitamin E oil 

Instructions: 

• Once you’ve measured out all of the ingredients for the cleansing oil, pour them into a glass bottle, screw on the top, and shake well to combine. 
• Use as needed to help remove makeup or sunscreens.

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Do you pour this over zucchini noodles or is it made out of zucchini? The correct answer is: both! This quick pesto sauce is raw vegan, dairy-free, gluten-free, and contains a generous serving of vegetables in each bite. Serve it as a dip, spread, or as a sauce for some zoodles or regular noodles.

We like to stray from the well-traveled path and pave our own way, especially in regards to flavors. That’s how this zucchini pesto sauce came to be. It’s a tasty and zesty twist on a classic pesto recipe that exhibits an impressive nutritional profile. This pesto sauce is more akin to an avocado pesto, in the sense that it is a little thicker and creamier than a regular pesto. Like any great pesto, this recipe contains nuts, only we use walnuts instead of pine nuts. If you prefer other nuts, then you can use almonds, cashews, or pine nuts instead. If you want to enjoy a nut-free version, use pumpkin seeds.

Because zucchini contain a lot of water, you have to do your best to squeeze the water out before blending it with the rest of the ingredients. Grate the zucchini with a cheese grater, place it in a cheesecloth, and squeeze out as much water as you can. You don’t want excess water, or else your pesto will become too watery. Just make sure that you use this pesto relatively quickly, because it only keeps fresh in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days.

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