Sunday, November 30, 2008

Popular Homemade Skin Care Recipes You Can Enjoy

kin Care Recipes You Can EnjoyAuthor: Ray A. Rubio

Homemade skin care can be as easy as mixing up a small amount of oatmeal and milk and making a body scrub that costs you pennies on the dollar compared to comparable products at the grocery store. Plus, they are fun to make, you know exactly what went in them and if you have any form of allergic reaction, you don't have to make any more than what you need at a time. Sometimes store bought items lose their potency before you can use it at all. By making your own products, you can have as little or as much as you need. Here are some popular homemade skin care recipes you can enjoy.

Before you can make your own skin care products, you need a few recipes. Let's start by making our own lip balm. Most people forget to include their lips in their skin care regimen, but the skin on them can get as chapped and dry as the rest of the skin on our face. By keeping a lip balm on them, they stay moisturized and soft. This citrus based lip balm uses the following ingredients:

1 teaspoon of natural beeswax
1 teaspoon of calendula oil
1 teaspoon of apricot kernel oil
A few drops of orange, lemon, or lime essential oil

Start by melting the beeswax and adding the apricot and calendula oils to the pot. Continually stir the mixture until it is well blended and the wax mass has the same consistency throughout. Keep stirring the wax as you remove it from the heat and let it cool. Add the essential oil and stir it into the wax well, then store it in a plastic container or jar and use everyday to keep your lips soft and smooth.

Chocoholics can rejoice because we've been saying for years that chocolate is good for you. It's a great way to make your skin feel silky and luxurious and it's also great to protect your skin from free radicals. This chocolate facial mask is not only decadent, but it will exfoliate the dead skin from your face. To make it, combine 1/3 cup cocoa (chocolate powder), ¼ cup of honey, 2 tablespoons of heavy or sour cream, and 3 teaspoons of oatmeal powder in a large bowl until consistent. Apply it to your face and gently massage it into your skin to exfoliate the dead cells from it. Leave the mixture on your face for about 20 minutes and then rinse off with warm water. You'll notice the difference in your skin right away.

Our hands are the most used and most seen parts of our body. We subject them to the torture of dirt, harsh chemicals, and over washing. We tend to forget to treat them to the same care that we give the rest of our body. By using a hand soak or masque, we can help make our hands soft and pliable with little to no work. The easiest way to do this is by soaking your hands in a ½ cup of warm olive oil. This helps moisturize not only your hands, but also your nails. Another way is by using a masque. Cook and mash two potatoes, mix in a little butter or olive oil and one capsule of Vitamin E to make the masque. Cover your hands with the potatoes, let it dry and then rinse with warm water.

Homemade skin care products are very cost effective in this time of economic crisis. You can save not only money, but the gas it costs to go and buy new products. And, if you find that you enjoy making these recipes, why not share them and introduce your friends to the joy of homemade skin care products. They will thank you.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/anti-aging-articles/popular-homemade-skin-care-recipes-you-can-enjoy-506272.html


About the Author:
Click here to get free advice on how you can enhance the look of your skin. Ray A. Rubio is a skin care specialist providing advice on choosing the best wrinkle cream for you. Visit http://www.clear-and-clean-skin.com for more details.


Thursday, November 27, 2008

Shea Butter, The African Wonder

Author: Donatien Ahoua

Shea butter is an extract from the shea nut seed of the tree called shea or karite tree. This tree matures in twenty years, but its full production doesn't come until it is forty-five years old. The shea tree can produce harvestable nuts for 100% shea butter even if it is already two hundred years old. The natural ingredients in shea butter are the reason for its effectiveness.

Shea butter is currently available in an organic, unrefined form and refined form. Despite both being pure shea butter, the difference lies in the way they are produced. The refined shea butter has no natural fragrance and natural color. On the other hand, the organic, unrefined form of shea butter is in its natural state. Research has concluded that the refined form of shea butter is not as effective as the organic, unrefined one.

Major Uses
The primary use of pure shea butter is as a moisturizer and as an emollient. Many products carry shea butter but not pure shea butter due to its expensive cost. Many cosmetics mix other ingredients to the shea butter to cut expenses. Pure shea butter has been found to be very effective in fading scars and stretch marks. This in itself is one reason why so many women buy 100% shea butter. Other benefits of shea butter are keeping the skin elastic and supple.

Raw shea butter in shampoos and conditioners also help brittle hair regain its softness and elasticity. It can revitalize and prevent further breakage of the hair. Pure shea butter is also used for tribal ceremonies in Africa where the trees are common to. Other uses for raw and pure shea butter are as cooking oil and conditioner for leather and wood. 100% shea butter is claimed to have anti-inflammatory properties, and has a reputation of helping lessen irritation from psoriasis, rashes and other skin disorders.

The Cost
The unrefined version of shea butter is more expensive than the refined version. This is because organic products take more time to process and produce compared to those products that are refined and process without any regard for safety. The price for 100% shea butter usually depends on the demand and the supply of the product. The uniqueness of the product means that it will always have a high demand and lesser supply since it takes seasons to grow the nuts and prepare the cream.

Wholesale
If you need large quantities of shea butter for your cosmetics business, you need to find a wholesale shea butter source. Today's consumers are very demanding about how the products they buy not only affect their bodies, but the world. When buying your wholesale shea butter, make sure the suppliers offer only fair trade unrefined shea butter. By insisting on fair trade wholesale sheabutter, you not only make your company look good to concerned customers, but you are investing in making the crops of shea nuts you depend on more reliable, since the workers have more of an incentive to keep working.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/medicine-articles/shea-butter-the-african-wonder-244249.html

About the Author:
Donatien Ahoua. http://www.shea-butter-and-olein.com
Organic Shea Butter should be the first choice for you when it comes to taking care of your delicate skin.

Eight Green Gift Ideas

Author: Virginia Ginsburg

Giving green gifts is increasingly popular, as it provides an opportunity for your gift to stand out from the crowd and make a positive impact on the Earth.

When giving a green gift, you have to consider several elements, including the gift itself, its source, its packaging, and the company providing it. These elements all make an impact on the Earth, and thus deserve careful consideration.

First of all, the gift itself must be considered. Ideally, its contents should be organic, or at least have a minimum impact on the Earth. For example, paper products should be recycled; cloth products should be made of organic fibers like cotton, bamboo or hemp. Wooden products should be made of fast-growing woods or recycled hard woods.

Second, the packaging of the product should be minimal to reduce waste. Seek zero packaging when possible. Next best is recycled paper packaging. The least desirable packaging is plastic, which takes significant energy to produce and is difficult to recycle. If the only option is plastic packaging, seek minimal amounts of plastic.

Third, the source of the gift is important based on both human rights considerations and transportation costs. It's no secret that most U.S. companies manufacture their products outside of the U.S. This is sometimes the only option when it comes to economy, but you can be a conscious consumer by researching the country of origin to determine how likely it is that they frequently are cited for human rights violations. The fuel costs involved in shipping products from foreign countries vary, but can make a significant impact on the product's overall cost to the environment.

Finally, consider the company itself. It may surprise you to discover that some companies that sell green products are actually not green at all. They may actually be less than green companies. Other companies that use less sustainable products may in fact be greener overall when you consider product sourcing and packaging. The best thing to do is to think beyond the label on a product and do a little bit of research. Consider the concepts above and apply them to all of your green purchases for more conscious consumption.

Eight Easy Options For Green Gift Giving

1. Gift Certificates - require almost no transportation resources or packaging, and ensure the recipient will get exactly what he or she wants. Choose local, environmentally-conscious companies from which to secure the certificates.

2. Organic Products - are often sourced from environmentally-conscious companies that minimize their impact on the world. Consider clothing, accessories and beauty items.

3. Charity Donation - requires no transportation resources or packaging, and directly make a positive impact on the world. Check out organizations that benefit global resource initiatives, focusing on something meaningful to the recipient like water or air quality, or wildlife protection.

4. Local Home-Made Products - buying locally-made products supports the local economy and minimizes transportation impact. Look for hand-made gift items like bags, decorative boxes and children's toys.

5. Massage - a hands-on gift requires almost no waste, and the only products required are a little bit of massage oil.

6. Eco Spa Day - while many spas use treatments that are tested on animals and contain ingredients that don't meet the green standard, eco spas specialize in treating guests to luxury without negatively impacting the Earth.

7. Home-Made Food - if you like to cook, select the best organic and locally-grown products available and prepare a home-made meal that you can either share or drop off. Don't live nearby? Bake organic cookies and send them in the mail.

8. Week of Groceries - take the task of grocery shopping off their to-do list by visiting the local farmer's market or responsible grocery store. Remember to include some recipes for how they can cook the food!

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/home-and-family-articles/eight-green-gift-ideas-509854.html

About the Author:
Virginia Ginsburg specializes in research related to ecologically-sound life and business practices. She writes about green living and socially-conscious investing. Her company, Green Baby Gifts http://www.greenbabygiftsonline.com/ , specializes in gifts that are both beautiful and ecologically-sound.

Monday, November 24, 2008

Coffee With a Conscience: Why Buy Fair Trade Coffee

fee With a Conscience: Why Buy Fair Trade CoffeeAuthor: R. L. Fielding

Coffee is second only to oil as the most traded commodity in the world, and the United States is its largest consumer. While the average cost for a pound of coffee ranges from $3.00 to almost $40.00, the average third world coffee farmer receives only 25 to 50 cents. Though a good yield can garner close to $10,000 a year for the average farmer, by the time that same yield hits the cup in the US, it is worth more than three-quarters of a million dollars.

Before harvested coffee beans make it to the US, they are bought and sold by middlemen, who set the per pound price paid to disadvantaged farmers. Though there have been initiatives to curb the middleman’s influence, there hasn’t necessarily been a way to side-step them completely, until now.

Fair trade organizations, such as Fairtrade Labelling Organizations International (FLO) and FLO-CERT, provide strict guidelines that follow coffee beans from plant to finished product. When a product is designated Fair Trade Certified(TM), it means it has been produced for a fair price, under safe and healthy conditions, and in accordance with direct trade standards that give the farmer more control and allow them to compete globally. Fair trade organizations also work with farmers to promote community development programs and environmentally sustaining farming practices.

More consumers are switching to Fair Trade coffee.

As awareness and availability increase, more people are making the decision to purchase Fair Trade Certified products. What started as a grass roots effort to help struggling farmers in third world countries has grown to a world-wide movement to ensure coffee producers are able to sustain their families, communities and their harvest.

Fair Trade Certified coffee is growing in popularity and can now be bought in most supermarkets, from wholesale suppliers or through online coffee retailers. It is sold as ground coffee, coffee beans, coffee pods or even instant coffee. Major coffee shops and restaurants are beginning to offer Fair Trade Certified coffees side-by-side or as an alternative to regularly produced coffees.

Does Fair Trade coffee cost more?
While there is a slight variance in pricing when compared with mass-produced products, Fair Trade Certified coffee is priced competitively with other gourmet and specialty coffees, and any difference will decrease as Fair Trade coffee sales increase. Bypassing the middlemen allows Fair Trade Certified coffee prices to stay competitive while netting the farmer a bigger return.

How does purchasing Fair Trade benefit coffee farmers?
Under fair trade agreements, farmers receive a set minimum price for their product, unlike regular coffee growers whose income is generally far below market value. Fair Trade certification also helps farmers implement organic growing practices, better labor practices, and safer working conditions. Benefits reach the farmers through a labeling and audit system that tracks the coffee from harvest to packaging.

Can you taste a difference?
Fair Trade coffees don’t taste different because they are grown the same as any coffee, but under improved conditions. Many fair trade organizations are working with farmers to develop organic and shade grown coffees techniques which means coffees that are healthier for you and the environment.

How do you know if you’re buying Fair Trade Certified coffee?
To find Fair Trade coffee at your local store or via an online retailer, simply look for the Fair Trade Certified Mark on the package. By selecting products licensed to use the certification mark, you can be sure your purchase is making a positive difference by helping disadvantaged farmers get a better deal.

About CoffeeCow
CoffeeCow.com goes to great lengths to provide the highest quality products, the fastest service, and the deepest discount prices you will find on coffee pods, single cup coffee makers, and a wide selection of related coffee supplies. Developed by coffee professionals with over 35 years of experience in fulfilling any coffee service need, CoffeeCow offers all the coffee conveniences for your home or office. Visit http://www.coffeecow.com for more information.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/coffee-articles/coffee-with-a-conscience-why-buy-fair-trade-coffee-346582.html

About the Author:
R.L. Fielding has been a freelance writer for 10 years, offering her expertise and skills to a variety of major organizations in the education, pharmaceuticals and healthcare, financial services, and manufacturing industries. She lives in New Jersey with her dog and two cats and enjoys rock climbing and ornamental gardening.



Sunday, November 23, 2008

Going Green is not Just for Big Business-You Can Grow Eco-profits, Too!

Author: Ruth Klein

The world of big business is making daily headlines by "going green" after discovering that what's good for the planet is also proving good for business.

IBM recently announced "Project Big Green," a $1 billion initiative to reduce energy consumption by offering new lines of energy-efficient IT products.

Wal-Mart is adding solar power to more than 20 stores.

PepsiCo is buying renewable energy certificates to offset its carbon footprint. Even major banks and energy firms are being asked by shareholders to prove that they, too, are going green.

It's not just the biggest businesses that are attracting new customers and shareholders and reaping huge profits by "going green." Small businesses also are growing eco-profits by embracing surprisingly inexpensive strategies to add value to their products, services and brand.

Consider these innovative examples:

- Bob Smith of Mad River Brewing Company in Blue Lake, California, has attracted positive publicity (and new customers) by promoting his efforts to reduce his small firm's waste output and take other environmentally conscious steps. In turn, he has received welcome positive publicity from the press. "What PR budget? That is our PR budget," he told the Albuquerque Tribune about "going green" to market his business.

-In Florida, Natalie Kelly formed Home Therapy Cleaning Services, which uses only nontoxic, all-natural cleaning products for her home cleaning business. She used to sell aromatherapy candles from her home, she told the St. Petersburg Times, but today uses an aromatherapy baking soda blend to freshen carpets.

Here's what you can do:

- Two inexpensive ways any small business or solo entrepreneur can go green are to change light bulbs to energy-efficient bulbs and use biodegradable cleaning products.

- With that done, tell your customers and the media about these simple ways to go green. You will have just earned instant credibility as a green business, and also as a media resource for simple, effective ways to "go green."

- Many communities online and offline are forming networks to exchange energy-saving ideas for home and business. Form your own energy network, enlisting neighborhood businesses that will welcome another opportunity to show they're going green, too. The plus for you is that you will have just positioned yourself and your business as a community environmental leader.

- Copy what the New York Times called "Phase 2" of the corporate response to global warming. Partner with an environmental group. Travelocity invites customers to donate an extra $10 to $40, which goes to the Conservation Fund to plant trees to offset the carbon used by a client to take a trip. Whole Foods invites customers to buy a $5 "wind power card" that goes to Renewable Choice Energy to build wind farms. What local environmental group can you partner with to promote on your Web site (and vice versa), to set aside a day that a percentage of profits will go to that organization or to make their fliers available at your business?

- Make use of readily available, free information to hand out with your business literature or to make available in your office. For example, create a one-page flier on your letterhead inviting clients to calculate their own carbon footprint by visiting http://multimedia.wri.org/safeclimate_calculator.cfm.

- Go deeper green! Attend a "green" conference in your community or region, and promote your attendance. (Go to Google.com and type in "green" and "conference" and your area to find out when and where they are scheduled.) Write a "green" article on simple ways you are going green and submit it to one of the dozens of "green" Web sites and blogs that invite reader contributions. It's a great way to market your smart ideas and your business!

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/business-articles/going-green-is-not-just-for-big-businessyou-can-grow-ecoprofits-too-268998.html

About the Author:
Ruth Klein, the De-Stress Diva (tm) and Branding Guru, is the proverbial Woman About Town. Holding a Master's in Clinical Psychology, consulting with renowned businesses - small and large. Ruth is a consultant, author, speaker, radio show host, branding strategist and productivity coach. http://www.ruthklein.com .

Friday, November 21, 2008

Eco-Friendly Holiday Gifts-Reusable Tote Bags, Organic Foods, Seventh Generation Household Items,Natural Cosmetics & Personal Care

Instead of using traditional wrapping paper
this holiday season, consider putting
your eco-friendly gifts in a basket or
reusable tote bag instead.

More wrapping ideas:
  • Sunday comic section
  • Pages from a catalog
  • Recycled paper (think paporganics.com)
  • Fabric
  • Brown paper bag & decorate
According to Recycle Now the materials that go
into making some wrapping paper result in it not
always being accepted for recycling:wrapping paper is
often dyed, laminated and/or contains non-paper
additives such as gold and silver coloured shapes,
glitter, plastics etc which cannot be recycled.

What items to select for your gift?

Pick a theme:
  • Seventh Generation household items
  • Personal Care & Cosmetics
  • Organic Food


Thursday, November 20, 2008

The Jonas Brothers Going Green:Joe, Nick, Kevin Jonas, Concert Photos, Chevy Video

*the Jonas Brothers go green*

Check out the video (Part 1 of a 3-part series for Chevy Rock The Road)
at the bottom of this posting..


These original concert pics of the Jonas Brothers
were taken by yours truly at one of
their sold out venues.









Wednesday, November 19, 2008

Cleanse Your Face Naturally With Honey: Keep It Sweet & Simple

I'm crazy about honey!
I put it in my tea daily and now I'm cleansing my face with it.
It's simply divine.
When you scale back on your beauty and personal
care routine, something magical happens.
Keep it sweet & simple.

How to Wash a Face With Honey

Who else is crazy about honey?


Tuesday, November 18, 2008

Go Green With Vegan Bath & Body Products! Bubble and Bee, Terressentials, Perfect Organics, karma~naturals

Here are some products worth checking out.

Looking for a safe and healthy vegan lip balm?
Need a natural deodorant?
Or how about a natural shea butter moisturizer?

With the cold weather here, it's time to stock up on balms and moisturizers!

Monday, November 17, 2008

Go Green With The Mother Of Temporary Tattoos: Mother Ink

Q&A
Laura Silverthorn/President



CELESTE: How did you come up with the name Mother Ink?

LAURA: I wanted something all-encompassing and that everyone would remember. We all know Mother Goose, so I imagined what a Mother Goose figure would look like if she was also a tattoo enthusiast. Hip. modern, edgy, but still classically feminine. She embodies the attitude that tattoos may now be mainstream, but still a little naughty. Above all, the "Mother of Temporary Ink" is just that, a mother, and I love her for that!


LOVEBIRDS

CELESTE: What makes your temporary tattoos eco-friendly?


LAURA: The packaging. I really worked hard to find a way other than using plastic wrapped tattoo sheets. When I see this kind in the store, I just cringe. A thin plastic film is necessary for protection, but the outer wrapper is completely reusable as a colorful paper cd/dvd sleeve. I make all the tattoos a special size to accomplish this so that when you are finished with your tattoo, you now have a pretty little Mother Ink media sleeve...and no guilt! And of course, we only use paper to ship, even with our wholesale accounts. Peanuts are for elephants, not geese!

FOOTPRINTS
CELESTE: Ingredients in your tattoos?

LAURA: Wow, there are a lot! It's actually intimidating to look at the long names, but the tattoo inks are vegetable based and FDA approved for skin use (unlike Henna). Adhesive is added to make the inks stick to the skin, similar to an adhesive bandage. All ingredients are listed on the Mother Ink website "How to Apply" page.



CELESTE: What is the most outrageous tattoo you've ever designed?


LAURA: The real one on my lower back, but I'll never tell!

CELESTE: If someone asked you to design a tattoo for them, would you and how long would it take?


LAURA: I have had so many requests for custom tattoos, and even heard of someone getting a permanent Mother Ink "Peace" tattoo. I guess that's sort of stealing, but I was excited! If I were really quick at doing them, I would take custom orders, but unfortunately I'm a total slowpoke. My passion for design means I probably spend way too much time on each one. Believe it or not, I was actually going to hire out the design aspect when I first started the business. It was serendipity that I couldn't afford it!

PEACE


CELESTE: How long do the tattoos last on your skin?

LAURA: That's a tough question. It varies so much from person to person (due to activity level and skin type), but the range is anywhere from one to seven days. The best way to make them last is to cleanse the skin well before applying and not to place them where friction from clothing will be an issue.



PEACOCK

CELESTE: Laura-what inspired you to start designing tattoos?

LAURA: I got pregnant! Then I searched all over to find beautiful, hip temporary tattoos with which to decorate my growing belly, only to find the usual "clip art" varieties. I had heard about the dangers of Henna (not to mention many women can't afford this option), and decided to make them myself. Mother Ink was born!

CELESTE: Would you like to add anything else, Laura?


LAURA: Yes. As much as I love real tattoos, I think that (like most people) I'm fickle. I urge young people, as well as adults, to try temporary tattoos as a way to express themselves...temporarily. I will always be wearing a fresh, new, creative design that I love today. Will you?

LAURA'S BIO: Laura Silverthorn is a former nurse, foreign aid worker, and art school drop out. She conceptualized the Mother Ink Brand in early 2007 while pregnant with her first child and brought it to market in 2008. She currently lives in Philadelphia with her son Sean Patrick.

See all of Laura's designs at
Mother Ink now!

Introducing karma~naturals --Go Green With Celeste interviews Owner/Creator, Kris Ash


Introducing... karma~naturals!

NEWSFLASH: First time customers-
Get 20% Discount at karma~naturals with code NEWCUST807.


Q&A with Owner/Creator, Kris Ash

Celeste: How did you come up with the name karma~naturals?

Kris: Lots of people have asked why we use the word karma (our company is called karmic klutter, and our products are called karma~naturals). Well, it has a double meaning. First, we feel it's our fate, purpose, or karma to help others find the opportunity to bring their lives into a more natural existence. And secondly, it stands for Kris Ash Really Makes All (naturals)...and I happen to be Kris Ash, the visionary and primary entrepreneur of this little family company.

Celeste: What went through your mind when you discovered your cosmetics and personal care products you were using (before you started making your own) were toxic?

Kris: It always bothered me that I could not pronounce the names of most of the ingredients in the products I was using…and, with my severely dry skin, I used A LOT of them. Worst of all, up until about 5 years ago, I hadn’t even bothered to read labels. Once I did, I was horrified to see how unnatural and toxic these products were! No wonder so many of my friends and loved ones were dying from cancer. Why would I put something on my skin (which drinks in these chemicals), when I wouldn’t dare consider consuming it? I felt stupid and determined to find a better alternative so I could rest at night with peace of mind. So, with my husband’s scientific background and my little bit of chemistry knowledge, I took on the task of making skin care products about which I could feel safe and use.

Celeste: Name 5 benefits women should know about when using your natural products.

Kris: Five benefits of using our karma~naturals products….

1. You can pronounce the ingredients within our body products, so you know what you’re placing on your skin. The formulas are simple, giving you only the ingredients you really need without any inert ingredients so common in big company products. The products contain no parabens, phthalates, or petroleum based products. And, the ingredients are listed in a reader friendly format.

2. Most of the oils we use are organic. So, you can rest at night knowing your skin care products contain plant based ingredients that weren’t grown with synthetic pesticides, herbicides, or fertilizers.

3. Unlike big companies, you can talk to me personally. I am the person who creates, packages, and processes your orders. I am there every step of the way (although my family members help throughout the process). I know I’m making my items for a person….and I keep this personal relationship in mind during the entire process.

4. The reason I create my products is for body benefits….not profits like big companies. I make these products for myself, my family, friends, and associates….so, they make your skin feel great! And, the only skin they are tested on belongs to me and my willing human volunteers…. NO animal testing.

5. My husband and I are eco-conscientious. We reuse all of the packaging materials which accompany ordered supplies as they arrive at our home. We recycle any of the cardboard, paperboard, glass, and plastic containers and packaging we find we can’t use. Also, we clean our home (and the company processing rooms) with eco-conscious cleaners. Best of all, we donate a portion of our income to eco-conscientious and environmental causes…..like Wilderness Society, World Watch Institute, Zero Population Growth, Missouri Botanical Gardens, and League of Conservation Voters. Our long distance carrier is even WALD (Working Assets Long Distance). All of this we do….so we can make a difference.

karma~naturals Nourishing Lotion Bars


Celeste: What inspired you to start making your own organic cosmetics?

Kris: We are a very small family operated company with a big mission in mind...
Leave this world better than the way we found it!"

And, this is just what my husband and I have been doing on our journey throughout this life together with our three children. Thus, as we have watched ourselves getting older, we began questioning many of the assumptions we were taught growing up... like our skin was a protective covering that hindered outside forces (such as chemicals) from affecting our precious interiors. How wrong we were! With the advent of medical patches, it is perfectly clear our old assumptions are just plain wrong!

So years ago, we began purchasing earth-friendly products from companies like Seventh Generation and Gaiam to protect ourselves from harmful exposure to chemicals. Who knew that the very cosmetics and lotions we'd been putting on our faces and bodies were just as toxic as the cleaners we'd been using to clean our home! And, with all the media attention drawn to parabens, phthalates, and petroleum products (and the harm they do to our bodies), I became personally concerned as I watched so many of my friends and family members die from cancer within the past handful of years. I was especially concerned for my own safety since I have exceptionally dry skin and use tons of creams and lotions on my own body!

Thus, the adventure began (three years ago)...
And, here we are creating organic and natural body products that our friends, relatives, co-workers, associates, and neighbors have told us are wonderfully delightful, body safe, and positively indulgent. At their request, we began selling to them, which led to the launching of our eBay store and online website. Finally, we were able to offer even more people the opportunity to enjoy these carefully handcrafted products which we call
karma~naturals.

Celeste: Are your products all natural/organic/vegan?

Kris: Because our inspiration was to produce body products that were safe to use since we were using them ourselves, we make products that contain ingredients that are earth and plant based. (After all, if you can’t actually eat/drink it, why would you put it on your skin?) Therefore, they’re basically safe to consume orally (though I wouldn’t recommend it since they don’t taste all that good!) Most of the oils we purchase and use are organic, and, although most of our products are not vegan, we do currently carry a lip balm and lotion bar that are. And, as each day passes, we are consistently experimenting and producing new products that are organic and natural with some vegan alternatives.


Celeste: What went through your mind when you discovered your cosmetics and personal care products you were using (before you started making your own) were toxic?

Kris: It always bothered me that I could not pronounce the names of most of the ingredients in the products I was using…and, with my severely dry skin, I used A LOT of them. Worst of all, up until about 5 years ago, I hadn’t even bothered to read labels. Once I did, I was horrified to see how unnatural and toxic these products were! No wonder so many of my friends and loved ones were dying from cancer. Why would I put something on my skin (which drinks in these chemicals), when I wouldn’t dare consider consuming it? I felt stupid and determined to find a better alternative so I could rest at night with peace of mind. So, with my husband’s scientific background and my little bit of chemistry knowledge, I took on the task of making skin care products about which I could feel safe and use.

Celeste: Tell us about your journey with essential oils.

Kris: Shortly after my son was born in 1994, I began working in a new age bookstore. Here my adventure into essential oils began. At that time I began using them for my own emotional, spiritual, and health benefits (as well as my family’s benefit). When I began making my own organic & natural body products three years ago, I included many of them in quite a few of my products. Throughout my association with some of my dearest friends in the alternative medical profession, I learned that due to the lack of regulations within the U.S. cosmetics industry, the essential oils made and sold in the United States are mediocre at best. Recently, I have had the opportunity to experience and explore Young Living Essential Oils. It was exciting to learn that they are produced within European medicinal standards and their health benefits are unbelievably substantial. These superior essential oil products have helped me create essential oil products that offer wonderful emotional, spiritual, and health benefits that make living a joy!


Celeste: Do you literally make your products in your kitchen?

I started my first lip balm experiment in my kitchen….and it worked! The product was creamy and delightful. But, as my experimenting expanded and the line of products grew, so did our online orders. It became too much to work my experimenting and order filling around feeding my family, so we built a laboratory production room in our home’s lower level. That initial experience eventually expanded into an additional storage room, and shipping area (which is where we currently are today).

karma~naturals Sheer Lip Gloss

Kris - is there anything else you would like to share with our Go Green With Celeste readers?

Kris: Time has been my greatest enemy as I’ve worked to create body products I felt I could safely use. As a result, while working on my own recipes, we have also offered natural body products that we don’t make ourselves yet still reach our high level of green standards. They are natural products I have discovered and decided to use myself since I want to avoid the toxic alternatives until my own creations have been perfected.Currently, we are carrying several creams and eye liners which are all natural, but not of our own creation. However, I am most excited that I have recently perfected a recipe for body lotions and creams that use drinkable hydrosol waters. The lotions & creams are luxurious, fabulous smelling, and above all – natural & organic! We still need to finish our 6 month testing period, but they will be coming out shortly after the New Year!


Check out all the karma~natural products now!

NEWSFLASH: First time customers-
Get 20% Discount at karma~naturals
with code NEWCUST807.

Saturday, November 15, 2008

Dangers of Aluminum, Toxic, Alzheimer's Disease, Health Risk, Aluminum Foil, Deodorant,Pots, Pans

Have you limited your exposure to aluminum?

I've made the switch to aluminum-free deodorant (Crystal); however the next to go is aluminum foil! Glass mason jars & glass Pyrex storage sets are going to replace aluminum foil (and plastics) in my kitchen.

YES, it's a continual process to be aware of items which contain aluminum so that you can minimize YOUR exposure.

Healing With Nutrition explains "One of the main toxic elements associated with Alzheimer's Disease is aluminum. Brain cells get tangled and die off; a study has shown that aluminum is a cofactor in the formation of these neurofibrillary tangles. As people get older, their body's ability to detoxify harmful toxins like aluminum decreases, and so concentrations of toxins remain and build up to unhealthy levels. This logically explains why Alzheimer's Disease usually occurs in relation to age increases. Also explained is the fact that those with Alzheimer's Disease show higher levels of aluminum.

What products contain aluminum?

Healing With Nutrition lists "Aluminum exposure also comes from deodorants; pots, pans, and silverware; food wrapped with aluminum foil; and non-dairy creamer, baking powder, and many brands of table salt. Minimal exposure to these items is crucial in keeping aluminum levels low. "



Friday, November 14, 2008

Natural Communities Magazine: "Bringing Positive Solutions To Life's Challenges"

Before your next trip to the grocery store, be sure to check out Dear God, Don't Eat That!, an article that lists 17 items to stay away from and why. And are you aware of the Dirty Secrets Of The Food Processing Industry?

These articles, along with a wide variety of other important topics are featured in one of my favorite resources, Natural Communities magazine.

Thursday, November 13, 2008

Go Green With Celeste Discounts Coupon Codes: iherb.com, Natural Body & Cosmetics-Karma Naturals, Klean Kanteen stainless steel sports bottles!


Hello Go Green With Celeste readers,

Here are some great discounts. Check them out and be sure to post a comment to let me know what fun items YOU are buying:)

Get $5 off with code CEL445 at www.iherb.com. (first-time customers)

NATURAL BODY & COSMETICS!
Get 20% Discount at www.karmic-klutter.com with code NEWCUST807. (first time customers)

STAINLESS STEEL bottles! Get 8% discount with code 2468 at www.watercheck.biz.

Does The Price Of Your Perfume Add Up To Health Issues?

s The Price Of Your Perfume Add Up To Health Issues?Author: Gregg Hall

Almost everything made today includes some kind of fragrance. It is in soaps, cleaning products, laundry detergent, deodorants, and more. I could list a lot more but then all we would have would be a list. We utilize perfume for air freshener, on our own bodies and on the bodies of our pets. The problem with all of this is that the proliferation of all of these chemicals could be contributing to making you feel ill.

The use of fragrances is nothing new, they have been used for centuries dating to biblical times but it is only now that we have begun to see some of the issues arising from the use of perfume. One of the main reasons for this, I think, is that throughout the ages fragrances were created from natural ingredients while now the vest majority of scents on the market are made from chemicals which leave a toxic vapor trail.

The reason for making the fragrances with synthetics is simple; it is much cheaper and faster to produce once they have the formula down. Some of the chemicals used like petroleum are proven and well documented to contain dangerous toxins that can cause health issues from birth defects to disorders of the nervous system, and even cancer.

The fragrance industry that uses these chemicals is completely unregulated because they are not thought to be producing anything dangerous. They don't have to supply the FDA with any date or information of testing, safety, or their formulas. Some people are more sensitive to these chemicals than others, so while it may not affect you it could very well be harming someone in your home. For people who are highly allergic to some of these chemicals they don't have to smell them, it can just be laundry soap that has an allergen that causes them to break out in a rash when they put on a freshly laundered piece of clothing.

Some are so hyper sensitive to certain perfumes that just one sniff of the scent can cause shortness of breath, rapid breathing and heart beat and other reactions. Some other very common signs of someone who is highly allergic are sore throat, sneezing, nausea, and watery eyes. In many cases if the chemical is absorbed through the skin it has an even more powerful impact.

There are many establishments today that are beginning to implement fragrance free policies due to the allergic reactions that are being seen. Not only do the ask people not to wear any scented products but they also use only unscented cleaning products for their janitorial services. As more and more people display reactions to the chemicals we will see companies all across the country following suit with similar policies.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/health-articles/does-the-price-of-your-perfume-add-up-to-health-issues-45162.html

About the Author:
Gregg Hall is an author living in Navarre Florida. Find more about discount designer perfume and discount women's perfume store at http://www.perfumeandcolognestore.com

Friday, November 7, 2008

Honeybee Gardens Mercury-Free Mascara, Water-Based Nail Polish Suncoat,All Natural Creations Face Cream, Karma Naturals Organic Body Products

After my research today, I'm thrilled to find some black nail polish without the harsh chemicals, mercury-free mascara, face lotion that is NOT linked to cancer and my recent discovery-->>Karma Naturals, specializing in Natural & Organic body products.

Check them out and if you've tried any of them, be sure to post a comment below:)

Mercury-Free Mascara


Water-Based Nail Polish

Acquarella Nail Polish ($18)
http://store.acquarellapolish.com/Acquarella-Nail-Polish/M/B000WQU5IE.htm
  • Rates a 0 on Skin Deep
  • NOT linked to cancer
Suncoat Nail Polish ($7.63)
https://www.internatural.com
  • "In Suncoat water-based nail polish, all the chemical solvents are replaced by water. The major ingredient is water, not chemical solvents! So when Suncoat water-based nail polish is being applied, it is only water that evaporates to the air, not toxic chemical fumes."

Face Lotion That Is All Natural!
All Natural Creations Light Shea Butter Lotion ($10 + $4.95 s&h)
http://www.allnaturalcreations.com/face.shtml
  • Rates a 1 on Skin Deep
  • NOT linked to cancer
  • Compact for Safe Cosmetics signor
Natural & Organic Body Products
Karma Naturals
www.karmic-klutter.com
  • All natural or organic lip balms, gloss, blush, foundations plus more
  • Compact for Safe Cosmetics signor

Thursday, November 6, 2008

President Barack Obama: Letter to Help Support The Pickens Plan

No matter who we voted for, we need to back our President who was elected this week.

I just sent President -Elect Barack Obama a letter congratulating him on his historic victory and hoping he will join me in supporting the Pickens Plan.

You can also send him a letter by visiting http://action.pickensplan.com/obama

Here is the letter:

Congratulations on your historic win.

As you begin to develop an agenda for the first 100 days of your Administration, I look forward to learning more about your plans to reduce our country's dependence on foreign oil.

The Pickens Plan is our country's way to create hundreds of thousands of new energy jobs and kick-start this ailing economy.

I hope you will join me in supporting the Pickens Plan. Together we can make a difference.

Saturday, November 1, 2008

Just When You Thought It Was Safe To Eat Veggies By Amy Todisco

Green Living Expert, Amy Todisco
http://www.greenlivingnow.com

Most of us eat veggies because we know that they are healthy for us, and most of them really taste good. At least we thought they were healthy for us. Well, guess what? A recent University of Minnesota study published in the Journal of Environmental Quality found that antibiotics given to animals could end up in your veggies (gasp!).

Here's the problem:

Raw and/or lightly composted manure is often used as fertilizer on conventional farms. In contrast, manure used on organic farms must be composted or applied at least 90 days before harvest. No such requirements exist on conventional farms.

In the study, researchers found that corn; cabbage and green onions all absorbed the antibiotic, chlortetracycline from the manure fertilizer from pigs that were given the antibiotic. Chlortetracycline is a member of the tetracycline class of antibiotics used in human medicine. It's used to treat upper respiratory tract infections and other illnesses. When humans ingest antibiotics, especially unnecessary ones, it can make bacteria in the intestines become drug resistant. So, if you really needed that antibiotic at some point, it wouldn't be effective. Also, all antibiotics (as I understand it) kill off both the good and bad bacteria in our bodies leaving us more vulnerable to yeast infections, and other health issues. Beyond the immediate effects to our bodies, resistant bacteria created on a farm can contaminate air, water and soil, and travel significant distances.

Did you think antibiotics were just used to treat disease? I did. Apparently they are also fed to animals to make them grow faster and to compensate for overcrowded, unsanitary conditions on industrial scale farms. Not good for the animals, and not good for the consumers of those animals either.

Sadly consumers have no idea that they are consuming antibiotics in their food, there isn't any label requirement to reveal this information. I guess it's just like genetically engineered organisms, pesticides and other toxins in conventional food. That's not to say that it's impossible for antibiotics to appear in organic food too. It would seem unlikely though due to the requirement to compost the manure and apply it 90 days before harvest. But who knows? I'll continue to put my money on the organic stuff, what about you?

P.S. Occasionally I get asked what a person can do who cannot afford organic food. I usually suggest the following: (1) grow it yourself and freeze and can it for the winter. No land? Grow your own in a community garden plot, or in a neighbor's garden (get the soil tested for heavy metals. Call your local extension service for more information). Shop at local farmer's markets (fresher and usually more affordable). Join a community supported agriculture group (perhaps some farmers will barter your share of the harvest for something of value to them). I've heard that big box stores, like Costco's and Big Lots, carry some organic food. So, if you already shop there, choose the organic.