News – by Linda Lee-Bower

5 of the Most Pressing Hormone Questions—Answered!

Hormones influence everything from energy and mood to sleep and metabolism, but with so much information out there, it can be hard to know what’s true. I’m sharing my perspective on five common hormone questions, ranging from progesterone balance to menopause and fibroids. Maybe you’ll find it helpful as you explore what works best for you.   #5. I think I have low progesterone, but my doctor says my levels are ‘normal.’ What do you think about that? My understanding is that blood tests measure only a snapshot of progesterone at one moment in time and they don’t always reflect how your body is using the hormone. Many women have symptoms of low progesterone even when their levels appear “normal” because their body isn't making enough in the right amounts at the right times. #4. I keep hearing that fibroids are estrogen-driven. What are your thoughts, Linda? From what I’ve been taught, the first thing to know is what fibroids are and why they react to both progesterone and estrogen. Fibroids originate from a single muscle cell in the uterus (myometrium) that mutates and begins multiplying abnormally. The uterus is highly hormone-sensitive because its job is to prepare for pregnancy each cycle. Since fibroids come from mutated cells, they retain that same sensitivity to estrogen and progesterone. Estrogen is a cell-proliferator. But when progesterone is in the right level, it helps to keep estrogen balanced. Estrogen and progesterone don’t cause fibroids. But estrogen can fuel their growth since it's a cell-proliferator.    #3. I know menopause is natural, but why do some women struggle with intense symptoms while others barely notice it? From my experience, one of the biggest factors in how smooth or difficult the transition feels is partially due to hormone balance. I've found that many women ignore supporting adrenal health. This is key because, as the ovaries slow down estrogen and progesterone production, the adrenal glands take over part of the job.  If they’re already stressed or depleted, symptoms can feel more intense. Wild Yam is often used to support hormone balance during this transition. While it doesn’t contain actual progesterone, compounds in Wild Yam support the body’s progesterone pathways, bringing comfort. #2. Before menopause, I used to handle stress just fine, but now even small things make me feel overwhelmed. Is this a hormone issue? Maybe! This question is incredibly broad, so I'll try to tackle it as best as I can. My understanding is that progesterone has a natural calming effect on the brain (it interacts with GABA receptors, which help you feel relaxed). In early menopause, progesterone is often the first hormone to drop, which means less of that soothing, anti-anxiety effect.  Estrogen affects serotonin and dopamine, the brain’s feel-good chemicals. When estrogen swings wildly (as it often does in perimenopause), it can trigger mood instability, irritability, and emotional highs and lows. Some women feel anxious and overwhelmed one week, then totally fine the next. After menopause, the adrenal glands take over some hormone production (especially for estrogen and progesterone). If a woman has been under chronic stress for years, her adrenals may already be tired.    #1. How does cycle syncing work on women in menopause? When menopause begins, ovulation stops, and hormone production no longer follows a monthly cycle. While hormones still fluctuate daily, you can adapt to support the body's new rhythms. During menopause, estrogen no longer cycles monthly. This means energy levels may not have the same highs and lows as before. However, estrogen still influences brain function, mood, and metabolism, so supporting it with foods rich in phytoestrogen (plant-derived compounds that mimic estrogen) like flaxseeds, fermented soy, and leafy greens to help. During menopause progesterone drops significantly. Actually, it’s the first hormone to drop. Since progesterone is the calming, anti-inflammatory hormone, its absence can make stress feel more intense. Magnesium, B vitamins, and adaptogenic herbs (like ashwagandha) can help buffer the stress response. Supporting adrenal health becomes the new version of cycle syncing since the adrenal glands take over some hormone production. Understanding your hormones is a journey, and the more you learn, the more empowered you are to make choices that support your health.

News – by Linda Lee-Bower

Barbara O'Neill's Honey Onion Cough Syrup

Stay healthy and keep coughs at bay—naturally! Pure, Organic Ingredients - 1 raw onion (any variety: white, yellow, red, or purple)  - 1 jar of raw, local honey  - 2 large mason jars with lids   Instructions: 1. Finely chop the onion.  2. Place ¼ cup of chopped onion at the bottom of a mason jar.  3. Drizzle ¼ cup of honey over the onion.  4. Continue layering onion and honey until all the onion is used, typically creating 4-5 layers.  5. Secure the lid and gently turn the jar upside down, ensuring all the onion is coated in honey. Then, return the jar to its upright position.  6. Let the mixture infuse at room temperature for 24 hours.  7. After 24 hours, strain the syrup by placing a fine mesh strainer over a second mason jar. Pour the mixture through the strainer, separating the onions from the infused syrup.  8. Seal the jar of honey-onion syrup and store it in the refrigerator for future use.   This syrup stays fresh indefinitely—if it even lasts that long!   ### **How to Use:**  At the first sign of a cough or illness:   - Adults: 1 tsp, 3 times daily  - Children: ½ tsp, 3 times daily  - Toddlers: ⅛ tsp, 3 times daily  - Infants: Not recommended   Helpful Tips: - For a vegan alternative, swap honey with maple syrup. The shelf life will be up to 6 months or per the maple syrup’s expiration date.  - Avoid recipes that call for refined sugars, especially cane sugar!  - Don’t waste the strained onions—add them to stir-fries, breakfast burritos, or other savory dishes.  - Adjust ingredient amounts based on your family’s needs.  - Get creative—experiment with fresh ginger, garlic, or herbs during the infusion process for extra benefits.   Did You Know? Most over-the-counter cough medicines, syrups, and drops are packed with ingredients that do more harm than good—suppressing your body's natural healing process rather than supporting it. Many contain: Cane sugar & artificial sweeteners (Sucralose, Erythritol)Preservatives (Potassium Sorbate, Sodium Benzoate)Artificial flavors & food dyesPropylene Glycol & rancid oilsThe list goes on. Instead of filling your body with these questionable additives, why not make a simple, two-ingredient cough syrup that actually supports your recovery? Are the ingredients you consume helping you heal—or holding you back?

News – by Linda Lee-Bower

Barbara O'Neill's Flu Bomb

Best for sinus, cold, sore throat, respiratory problems, and flu like symptoms. Be organically prepared this flu season.  -Organic Ingredients-1 Garlic Clove Crushed 1/4 Tsp Fresh Ginger Finely Grated1 Drop of Oregano, Eucalyptus, or TeaTree Food Grade Oil 1/4 Tsp Cayenne Pepper1 Lemon Juiced1 Tsp Raw Local and Unfiltered Honey1/2 C of Hot Water Instructions:Mix all ingredients together in a cup and immediately drink all at once. Additional Tips:* I like using North American Herb & Spice's Oil of Wild Oregano called Oreganol.*Use at the first sign of sickness.*Not recommended for children 8 years and younger; however, use your best judgement.*No amount of honey will make this taste any better.*Best to drink it as fast as possible.*Not ideal for symptoms that include vomiting.*For sensitive stomachs, take with a soup or crackers. *This recipe is not intended to treat or cure.  *Please use your best judgement and consult your physician if you have any concerns. Did You Know?Most over the counter flu medicines are full of chemicals, food "dies", carcinogens, refined sugar, preservatives, and only prolong a cold

News – by Linda Lee-Bower

The Body Butter Switch: Why Store-Bought Lotions Just Don't Cut It Anymore

Does your lotion actually care for your skin—or just coat it in chemicals? Let’s be real, most store-bought options don’t nourish, they mask. But body butters should do more... so much more. Every ingredient should work to heal, hydrate, and support your skin’s natural balance. Imagine a product specifically crafted to finally deliver what your skin has been craving. 

News – by Linda Lee-Bower

Conditioner Bars Are Changing Everything: Here's the Truth.

What’s really hiding in your conditioner? The truth might surprise you. From scalp irritation to hair loss, bottled conditioners could be doing more harm than good. But conditioner bars are turning hair care on its head. Want to know why they’re taking over? Click to uncover the ingredients that are changing everything.

News – by Linda Lee-Bower

Is Your Shampoo Causing Hair Loss?

Could your shampoo be the reason for your hair struggles? Many bottled shampoos are packed with hidden chemicals like phthalates and SLS, stripping your scalp, irritating your skin, and even causing hair loss.

News – by Linda Lee-Bower

Why Is Everyone Switching to Handmade Soaps

Is your soap sabotaging your skin? Discover the game-changing benefits of handcrafted, all-natural soaps designed to hydrate, protect, and nourish. From healing ingredients like shea butter and coconut oil to toxin-free, therapeutic-grade essential oils, these soaps elevate your skincare and wellness routine. Ready to glow? Explore the secret to radiant, healthy skin.

News – by Linda Lee-Bower

Introducing our new Men’s Formula of Wild Yam Cream!

A new MEN’S FORMULA of our Wild Yam Cream coming October 30th!

News – by Linda Lee-Bower

Balancing Hormones With Wild Yam & Other Herbs: A Natural Solution

The Importance of Balancing Hormone Health Title: Natural Harmony: Wild Yam Cream with Chaste Berry and Marshmallow Root - A Holistic Solution for Hormonal Balance, Fertility, and Wellness in Both Women and MenIntroductionAmidst the dominance of synthetic solutions, the allure of nature's remedies has never been stronger. Enter the powerful trio: Wild Yam Cream enriched with the goodness of Chaste Berry and Marshmallow Root. This unique blend presents a promising avenue for addressing a range of health concerns in individuals of all genders. From hormonal balance to fertility and overall well-being, let's delve into the potential benefits of this natural combination for both women and men.Exploring the Dynamic Ingredients1. Wild Yam (Dioscorea villosa):Wild Yam, scientifically known as Dioscorea villosa, has a storied history of supporting hormonal health. Rich in diosgenin, a natural compound with hormone-like properties, it has the potential to promote hormonal balance. This equilibrium is crucial for reproductive health, menstrual cycles, and overall wellness in both women and men.2. Chaste Berry:Chaste Berry has earned its reputation as a champion of hormonal balance. By influencing the pituitary gland, it aids in regulating hormone production, including luteinizing hormone and prolactin. Its benefits extend beyond hormonal harmony, offering relief from premenstrual syndrome (PMS) symptoms and contributing to a smoother menstrual cycle. Additionally, it holds promise for supporting fertility in both women and men.3. Marshmallow Root (Althaea officinalis):Althaea officinalis, commonly known as Marshmallow Root, adds a soothing touch to this blend. Boasting a high mucilage content, it's renowned for its gentle, comforting effect on irritated tissues and mucous membranes. In the context of our Wild Yam Cream, Marshmallow Root not only complements the other ingredients but also offers potential relief from water retention, bloating, and may contribute to a favorable environment for fertility.Benefits for Women1. Hormonal Equilibrium: The combined effects of Wild Yam and Chaste Berry may help maintain hormonal balance, assisting women in managing the ebb and flow of hormones that impact overall well-being.2. PMS Relief: Chaste Berry's influence on hormone levels can aid in alleviating the discomfort of PMS symptoms, offering respite from bloating, mood swings, and breast tenderness.3. Navigating Menopause: Wild Yam's natural compounds have the potential to ease menopausal symptoms, including hot flashes and night sweats, supporting women through this transitional phase.4. Fertility Support: The Chaste Berry component of the blend may contribute to fertility by helping regulate hormone levels and promoting a balanced menstrual cycle.Benefits for MenThis herbal blend's advantages aren't limited to women—men can also benefit:1. Prostate Health: Chaste Berry's potential impact on hormone levels may contribute to prostate health, offering support for men's overall well-being, particularly as they age.2. Holistic Wellness: Marshmallow Root's soothing properties extend to aiding digestion, promoting a sense of comfort, and contributing to men's and women's overall vitality.Managing Water Retention, Bloating, and FertilityMarshmallow Root's inclusion brings an added dimension to the blend. Its potential to reduce water retention and bloating can provide relief to individuals of both genders, promoting a more comfortable and balanced daily experience. Furthermore, Chaste Berry's effects on hormone regulation may offer support for fertility in both women and men.Usage and ConsiderationsWhile the Wild Yam Cream with Chaste Berry and Marshmallow Root offers promising benefits, individual responses may vary. It's advisable to consult a healthcare professional before incorporating any new herbal remedy into your routine, especially if you have underlying health conditions or are taking medications.ConclusionIn a world saturated with artificial solutions, the allure of natural remedies remains steadfast. The fusion of Wild Yam Cream with Chaste Berry and Marshmallow Root embodies the potency of nature's gifts. Whether you're a woman seeking hormonal balance and fertility support, a man aiming to support prostate health, or anyone looking to manage water retention, bloating, and enhance wellness, this herbal blend holds promise. As with any natural remedy, informed and cautious use is the key to unlocking the potential benefits of this remarkable trio. Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. No claims or guarantees are made regarding the effectiveness of this product. Discuss with your doctor prior to use. Herb information provided for educational purposes only. Not a substitution for advice given by your primary caregiver. Please research any new herb and consult your health care providers for possible drug/herb contraindications and precautions before ingesting. I urge consumers to please do your own research on all ingredients before buying and only do what makes you comfortable. Please consult with a qualified healthcare practitioner before using any herbal products, particularly if you are pregnant, nursing, or on any medications.

News – by Linda Lee-Bower

Caffeine And Tea

While the caffeine in tea and coffee are, technically, identical, the experience is different due to three key factors: 1. There is significantly less caffeine in the average cup of tea - especially when including green and white teas, as these are brewed at shorter times and cooler temperatures. 2. L-theanine, an amino acid found only in tea, has a relaxing effect that counteracts the jitteriness of caffeine without reducing the increase in alertness. 3. The high levels of antioxidants found in tea slow the body's absorption of caffeine - resulting in a gentler increase of the chemical in the system and a longer period of alertness with no crash at the end. The biggest myth about the caffeine content between coffee and tea is that tea contains more caffeine than coffee. While this is true when measuring coffee and tea in its dry form, this is false when comparing brewed coffee and tea. After all, we normally use 2 grams of tea per 6 ounce cup, and 10 grams of coffee for the same quantity of water. A widely cited 2004 British study looked at 200 cups prepared by consumers going about their normal brewing routines. It found that the average caffeine level in the cups of tea (black English style teas) was 40mg vs 105mg in the average cup of drip coffee. The amount of caffeine in tea depends on a number of factors, including the method and length of brewing or steeping. Studies also show that leaf location on the tea plant affects content of caffeine in that tea. The youngest leaves, highest on the plant, contain the greatest concentration of caffeine AND antioxidants. The greatest impact on caffeine content is the water temperature and length of steeping time. Black, Oolong, Green and White tea leaves themselves have surprisingly similar caffeine content. But a tea steeped for five minutes in boiling water is going to transfer a LOT more caffeine to the cup than a tea steeped for two minutes at 180 degrees Fahrenheit. Let's be clear: Oxidation does NOT increase the amount of caffeine in tea. There is no scientific basis to this common myth, and it results simply from measuring the caffeine in the cup after typical brewing methods and incorrectly crediting those results to the tea itself. While it's difficult (and usually incorrect) to make broad factual statements about how much caffeine is in Green Tea vs. Black tea, the varieties used (sinensis vs. assamica), growing methods (shade or high grown vs. low grown) and leaves selected (new vs. old growth) make the following teas stand out in their class: Relatively high caffeine Silver Needle (White)Gyokuro (Green)Matcha (Green)Assam (Black)Ceylon( Black)Darjeeling (Black) Relatively low caffeine Genmai Cha (Green)Gunpowder (Green  Hojicha (Green)Kukicha (Green)Keemun (Black) Also, keep in mind that, because tea bags contain broken leaves of smaller size, they produce an infusion with more caffeine than loose tea does. This is also true of very fine loose tea. In comparison, the same volume of coffee yields at least double the amount of caffeine. In fact, most sodas have more caffeine as well. There has been much concern in the United States recently about the possible dangers of caffeine. Caffeine tolerance varies greatly among individuals, with some being much more caffeine sensitive than others. A common misconception is that those who are caffeine intolerant should stock up on Decaf tea. Decaffeinated tea, in fact, is not caffeine free at all. It still contains about 5-10 mg per cup. A common myth is that you can "make your own" decaf tea by briefly steeping the tea and throwing away resulting liquor. The theory is that most of the caffeine is washed away in this initial steeping. The truth, however, is something else entirely. Caffeine is extracted over time, and so the first 30 seconds of a five minute steeping cycle may only extract 20 to 30% of the caffeine (the amount depends on the leaf and processing style). As importantly, the antioxidants and other health benefits of tea tend to be extracted more quickly than the caffeine. As a result, that first quick steeping or "washing" removes both the caffeine AND the healthy elements found in tea. To eliminate caffeine intake completely, one must switch to herbal tea. All real tea comes from the same plant, Camellia sinensis, which contains caffeine. Herbal infusions, such as Chamomile, Rooibos and Peppermint, are made from botanicals not related to Camellia sinensis, and they are naturally caffeine free.  

News – by Linda Lee-Bower

DIY Plant Based Milk Recipe

Make your own oat, cashew, almond milk at home! DIY Recipe There are many reasons why you should consider making your own plant-based milk at home. Firstly, it is a great way to save money. Store-bought plant-based milk can be expensive, but making your own at home is much cheaper.   Secondly, homemade plant-based milk is fresher and more nutritious. When you make your own milk, you know exactly what ingredients are going into it. You can choose high-quality nuts and seeds, and avoid additives and preservatives that are often found in store-bought milk.   Lastly, making your own plant-based milk is better for the environment. Store-bought milk often comes in non-biodegradable packaging, which contributes to waste. By making your own milk at home, you can use reusable containers and reduce your ecological footprint.

News – by Linda Lee-Bower

Dr Livinggood Talks About Sodium Bicarbonate

https://youtu.be/ZU_cpAwBlFo You’ve probably heard that baking soda can be used to clean out drains in your house, but did you know it can be used for other things, like… deodorant? In this video, I cover 13 different uses of baking soda, and the amazing benefits that it can have for your health. Thank you Dr Livinggood!

News – by Linda Lee-Bower

Sodium Bicarbonate Wrap with Barbara O'Neill

Barbara O'Neill is an author, educator, qualified naturopath and nutritionist. In this lecture - the twelfth in a series on the body's ability to heal itself - she shows how to perform a sodium bicarbonate wrap on the body. These lectures were recorded in Invercargill, New Zealand. Barbara O'Neill- Sodium Bicarbonate wrap  

News – by Linda Lee-Bower

Natural Laws By Barbara O'Neill Video

"The same power that upholds nature, is working also in man. The same great laws that guide alike the star and the atom control human life. The laws that govern the heart's action, regulating the flow of the current of life to the body, are the laws of the mighty Intelligence that has the jurisdiction of the soul. From Him all life proceeds. Only in harmony with Him can be found its true sphere of action. For all the objects of His creation the condition is the same—a life sustained by receiving the life of God, a life exercised in harmony with the Creator's will. To transgress His law, physical, mental, or moral, is to place one's self out of harmony with the universe, to introduce discord, anarchy, ruin." The Laws - Barbara O'Neill < Click

News – by Linda Lee-Bower

Water & Sodium - Vital For Life Video

How much water do you drink? Water is the 2nd most vital element needed for life, which is why you can only survive a couple of weeks without water. Video about the importance of water and salt < click

News – by Linda Lee-Bower

Happy Hormones With Barbara O'Neill Video

Barbara O'Neill is renowned for her extensive knowledge in natural health and wellness. With years of experience and expertise, she delves into various aspects of holistic healing, nutrition, herbal remedies, and the importance of maintaining a balanced lifestyle. Her insights have empowered countless individuals to embrace a more natural and mindful approach to health, fostering well-being and vitality in their lives. Happy Hormones With Barbara Check out this Youtube video form Barbara

News – by Linda Lee-Bower

How to Cure Handmade Soap

Tips on how to cure handmade soap and how best to store it until you use it. Curing is the process of allowing saponification to complete and for the soap to fully dry. Handmade soap needs to cure before you can use it. I hope to answer any questions in this blog and to provide guidance on exactly how to cure soap. Why the need to Cure Handmade Soap? Even though it looks good to go there are reasons why you need to cure freshly made soap.  There’s no hurrying up this process and it takes about a month to complete. More on what this means further below. The Cure Time Dries your Soap Out The main reason we cure soap is to let the water content evaporate out of the bars, and for them to dry out. Water/liquid that is still in your bars when you take them out of the mold. If you don't allow them to cure and dry then your bars will not last once to start using them. They can also have impaired lather The cure time will reduce the amount of water in your soap over a period of 4 weeks. By the end of that time, your bars can lose over half of the water they originally contained. How to cure handmade soap There are many places where you can cure your soap but the premise is all the same. It needs an airy place out of direct sunlight. You can use a bookshelf, cardboard boxes or even make towers of soap. Stacking soap during curing is perfectly fine and if you live in a warm and arid place, you could even cure your soap outside. That’s how it’s been traditionally cured in the Mediterranean and middle east. Even though your bars are firm at this time, they still contain moisture that can react with surfaces. That’s why we sit them on grease-proof or baking paper to protect both your soap and the units you’re using to cure it on/in. Then space your bars out so that there is plenty of airflow around them. Again, feel free to stack them, as long as there’s plenty of air that can circulate. Curing lets the water content of the soap evaporate out leaving you with harder longer lasting bars.    

News – by Linda Lee-Bower

Why it’s important to use natural and organic products on your skin

Keeping your skin looking healthy and radiant is important, because healthy skin is one of the biggest indicators that tell us whether we are healthy on the inside too. In fact, the skin is the largest organ of our entire body, so we really should treat it with care. Here are 5 great reasons it is important to do so: 1. Using natural and organic skincare products can reduce skin irritation unlike non-organic and non-natural products. People with sensitive skin will know how easily irritated it is, and products with chemicals and other strange ingredients in them such as Benzoyl Peroxide (used to treat acne) often leave skin feeling dry, red and sore. It is easy to find natural alternatives to all skin products, whether you are targeting spots, wrinkles or just want your skin to feel clean and healthy. Natural products are kinder to your skin, and will work just as effectively. Naturally sourced ingredients such as zinc oxide, tea tree oil and lavender extract are all wonderfully healing, natural ingredients that will leave your skin feeling smooth and nourished instead of sore and irritated like other products that contain harmful chemicals. 2. Natural and organic skincare products have stood the test of time. What do you think people were using before all these supposed ‘skin enhancing’ chemicals were discovered? Natural ingredients of course! Many ingredients that are included in modern organic skincare products have been used for centuries, developed from ancient remedies that have been known for their incredible benefits for the skin. There is no better test than the test of time, and these ingredients have proven their worth and shown not to have any adverse side effects, guaranteeing healthy and beautiful looking skin. 3. If you wouldn’t eat it, don’t put it on your skin! Our skin is very absorbent, and when you use products such as moisturisers, cleansers and toners, the ingredients within these are getting absorbed into our bodies. It’s great to be health conscious and think about what we are putting into our bodies, and it doesn’t stop at what we eat and drink. Next time you are buying a new moisturizer take a look at the ingredients on the label and think, “Would I eat this?” If the answer is no perhaps it’s time to start turning your skincare routine into a more natural one! Chemical toxins are very destructive whereas natural products, which are made from flower and plant extracts, are designed to nourish our bodies and do nothing but good. 4. Buying better quality, organic and natural products actually means you end up saving a lot in the long run! How nice it would be to know we are doing something great for our health, while also saving money at the same time? Well, if you switch to natural and organic skincare products you can do just that. Organic and natural skincare products are actually very cost effective when compared to their non-natural alternatives, especially as the quality of the ingredients means you can use less, which in turn means the product will last longer over time. While some chemical based products may be cheaper, you end up needing to use a lot of them - putting layer after layer of moisturizer on as your skin still feels dry, therefore having to buy more of it, and actually costing you more in the long run 5. Buying naturally and sustainably sourced products can be much kinder to the environment. Using natural and organic products in much better for the environment. Skincare products that contain chemicals can have a very damaging impact on the environment, sprays and perfumes that are released into the atmosphere can be very harmful, as well as the manufacturing process that takes place to create them. If you use natural and organic skincare products not only will you reap the benefits of beautiful skin, but also can enjoy them guilt-free without harming the environment.

News – by Linda Lee-Bower

HEALTH BENEFITS OF PINE NEEDLE TEA

Pine needles and other parts of the tree have been used for hundreds- and probably thousands- of years for health, but they are only just coming back into the spotlight as "an herb of the people." Here's more about the hidden benefits of pine, a simple pine needle tea recipe, and other ways to use this aromatic herb. Pine Needles for Health? Pine needles come, of course, from the pine tree (Pinus sp.). This sounds obvious, but it's actually an important thing to keep in mind because many evergreen conifers get called "pine trees" even when they are not pine at all. To get all the benefits of the needles and avoid potentially toxic trees, make sure you collect from a true pine tree, like Eastern White Pine (Pinus strobus). Look up foraging guidelines before you harvest because some evergreen species are toxic. True pine trees, however, have long been valued and used in many different herbal traditions. Native American medicine is one of the best examples of this. They used pine in many ways, including as an ointment for the skin and a general health tonic, and made use of the bark and sap as well as the needles. Today, many herbalists favor pine as a support for the respiratory system and a mild immune booster. Health Benefits of Pine Needles Rich in Immune-Supportive Vitamin C Pine needles were once used to make a tea that fought scurvy because of their vitamin C content. (This was something the Native Americans taught the new settlers.) Using the needles to make a cup of tea is a great way to give your immune system a gentle boost, especially because the needles also contain shikimic acid, a compound that may have antiviral properties. Like many other herbs and plant foods, pine needles contain antioxidants that help to protect your body from free radical damage, chronic inflammation, and disease.   Studies have found that some of the specific antioxidants in pine needles include proanthocyanidins and catechins. Not only do these antioxidants help lower inflammation, they also have shown potential for fighting cancer cells.

News – by Linda Lee-Bower

What does a face oil do? What’s all the hype about!?

The benefits of face oils span every skin type and goal. Because… Face oils provide skin with AH-MAZING moisture. Made of fatty acids and lipids, facial oils moisturize skin. They also lock hydration a.k.a. water into your skin and prevent transepidermal water loss. This translates to soft, supple, glowing skin. Moisturized skin also appears more youthful than dry skin, and heals more quickly. Face Oils are jam-packed with antioxidants, which fight the signs of aging AND blemishes. “How?” you ask!? Antioxidants neutralize aging free radicals Antioxidants help stimulate collagen production Antioxidants prevent sebum oxidation Face oils really lead the army when it comes to the fight against acne and blemishes. How to use face oils in your natural skincare routine. How do you apply face oil? When it comes to face oils, a little goes a long way. Dispense just 4-8 drops of oil onto the palm of your hand, rub your hands together to warm then oil, then gently pay the oil into your skin. When should you apply face oil? You can apply face oils in both the morning and evening. However, if you tend an oily skin type, you may prefer to only apply them in the evening.   Do you put face oil on before or after moisturizer? You want to apply your face oil as the last step in your routine, after applying any water-based serums or moisturizers.