Health Blog
Health Blog
Manuka Honey: Nature's Powerful Beauty Product
Manuka honey is produced in New Zealand and is made from nectar from the Manuka tree (Leptospermum scoparium), which has beautiful white or pink flowers. To produce Manuka honey, beekeepers move their bees to areas where Manuka is the predominant vegetation type when the tree starts to bloom, usually from spring to early summer depending on the region in New Zealand. Manuka honey has gained international recognition for its unique properties because it has high antibacterial activity. Plus, it tastes so good! It can be eaten as is spread throughout the day, in tea, or as an exclusive topping. Honey is an excellent sweetener that also contributes to health. What can Manuka honey contribute? Amino acids, B vitamins (B6, thiamine, niacin, riboflavin, pantothenic acid), calcium, copper, iron, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, potassium, and zinc. Generally beneficial for colds and soothes sore throats. Provides energy. Supports digestion and relieves mild digestive discomfort. Prevents plaque and gum inflammation. Helps with problematic skin, acne, and acne scars during facial treatments. DIY Facial Masks with Manuka Honey 1 tsp Manuka honey (all skin types). 1 tsp Manuka honey, 1 tsp rose water (all skin types). 1 tsp Manuka honey, 1 tsp lavender water, and 1/2 tsp spirulina powder (all skin types). 1 tsp Manuka honey, 1 tsp tea tree water, 1/2 tsp matcha powder (oily skin). 1 tsp Manuka honey, 1/2 tsp lemon juice, 1/2 tsp cinnamon powder (all except sensitive skin). 1 tsp Manuka honey, 1 tsp rose water, 1/2 tsp turmeric (all skin types but especially mature skin). Why is Manuka honey expensive? Manuka honey is unique to New Zealand. It is harder to extract and has a limited harvest period because it is only collected at certain times of the year. However, the unique properties of the honey are understood by consumers worldwide, creating continued high demand despite the high price. What is UMF? The UMF logo is recognized worldwide as a standard that identifies and measures the strength of the unique antibacterial activity in Manuka honey. UMF® stands for “Unique Manuka Factor.” The UMF mark is followed by a number indicating the strength of the UMF activity. The higher the UMF, the more potent the product. To be potent enough for medicinal use, it should have a UMF rating of at least 5+. UMF® is a registered name and trademark of AMHA (Active Manuka Honey Association) and can only be used by licensed users who meet established criteria, including monitoring honey quality. They must have the UMF name clearly indicated on the front label. The honey must be packaged and labeled in New Zealand. The honey must come from a New Zealand company licensed to use the UMF name.
Read more
Ketogenic diet - natural fat burning for better health
Ketogenic diet is a dietary approach aimed at shifting the body’s cells to burn fat as the primary energy source instead of carbohydrates. To achieve this, you need to eat a lot of fat, few carbohydrates, and a moderate amount of protein. It is perfectly possible to follow such a diet as both a vegan and a vegetarian, which we think is great. Many who have tried this report weight loss, improved mental clarity, freedom from sugar cravings, calmer digestion, softer skin, stabilized blood pressure, and better endurance during exercise. If you have high blood pressure, you should talk to your doctor first. Article from Dr. Perlmutter on the keto diet: Being on the ketogenic diet or “keto” is quite popular today and for good reason. Choosing dietary fat to fuel the body’s cells, as opposed to using sugar or carbohydrates, seems to have powerful health effects. We know that when fat is used as fuel, instead of sugar or carbohydrates, there appears to be much less production of harmful free radicals. Additionally, it seems that a more ketogenic diet is actually associated with less inflammation, the cornerstone of some of our most challenging conditions. When the body is adapted to a fat-burning program, in other words, “keto-adapted,” it means the body can mobilize fat and create molecules to fuel the body’s cells, called ketone bodies, the most important of which is beta-hydroxybutyrate. New research recognizes the importance of beta-hydroxybutyrate as much more than just an efficient cellular fuel. It turns out that beta-hydroxybutyrate is actually a powerful modulator of gene expression. Beta-hydroxybutyrate changes the expression of our DNA, further reducing inflammation and improving the way we eliminate harmful free radical chemicals by increasing our production of antioxidants. Eating 100% keto can be challenging for many. But at least moving in this direction and deciding to reduce your consumption of sugar and carbohydrates also yields very good health results. One thing to remember, however, is that while it is indeed a good idea to reduce carbohydrates, you need a sufficient amount of prebiotic fiber in your diet, even though prebiotic fiber is considered a carbohydrate. By definition, your body will not use carbohydrates as a fuel source, but you will absolutely take care of your gut bacteria. When you make sure to add adequate amounts of prebiotic fiber, it is much less challenging to stay on the keto diet. Article from Dr. Perlmutter on ketosis & caffeine: When you wake up in the morning after 12 hours of fasting, your body is in a state we call mild ketosis. This means your body has shifted away from burning glucose as the sole fuel source and is now tapping into your body fat reserves. When a person is in ketosis, it is actually a very healthy state in terms of brain function. For now, I want to focus on a common question about the effects of coffee consumption, or more specifically, caffeine intake, on either enhanced ketosis or not. In a new study titled "Caffeine Increases Plasma Ketones: An Acute Metabolic Study in Humans," Canadian researchers evaluated the effects of caffeine intake in a group of 10 healthy volunteers. After fasting for 12 hours and then breakfast, these individuals were given either 1. no caffeine 2. about one cup of coffee or 3. 3 cups of coffee. Blood samples were then taken to evaluate not only caffeine levels over a four-hour period but also the levels of ketones produced in the liver from the release of body fat. What the researchers found was really very interesting. Higher doses of caffeine in the 10 adults dramatically increased beta-hydroxybutyrate, one of the most studied ketones in terms of fueling the brain. The researchers found that the increase in blood ketones caused by caffeine intake was twice as high as what was observed after an overnight fast. It is important to know that this study is based on caffeine intake in its purest form.
Read more
Vitamin D: Important for health during autumn and winter
Vitamin D is a hormone-like vitamin that is very important for overall good health and strong, healthy bones. Vitamin D improves the absorption, transport, and use of calcium and phosphorus, which are necessary for bone and tooth formation. It is also a factor in ensuring your muscles, heart, and lungs function optimally. Why do we need vitamin D? Vitamin D plays an important role in the body's cell division process and contributes to the normal function of the immune system. It simply helps cells throughout the body communicate properly. People with an adequate level of vitamin D are usually much better equipped to fight colds and other illnesses. How do we get vitamin D? Vitamin D is mainly found in fatty fish, wild mushrooms, and egg yolk. However, it is difficult to get enough through diet alone. If you are vegetarian or vegan, it is especially challenging. Otherwise, vitamin D mainly comes from your skin when it is exposed to sunlight. Your body then goes through a number of chemical processes to convert it so that your body can use it in the best way. However, the amount of vitamin D you get from sunshine depends on: The time of day – your skin produces more if exposed during midday. Where you live – the closer to the equator you live, the easier it is for you to produce vitamin D from sunlight year-round. In the Nordic countries, we can only absorb vitamin D from the sun during the summer months. The color of your skin – lighter skin produces vitamin D faster than darker skin. For example, if you have very light skin, it may take about 15 minutes to produce enough vitamin D, but if you have dark skin, it can take up to 2 hours. The amount of skin you expose – the more skin you show to the sun, the more vitamin D your body produces. Because the sun’s rays are weaker and the days shorter during autumn and winter in Sweden – and because we spend less time outdoors and wear more clothes – we basically produce no vitamin D from the sun between October and April. Therefore, a vitamin D supplement can be very valuable during this period. Low levels of vitamin D can affect energy, mood, depression, immune defense, and more. One way to find out your exact need is to measure vitamin D in the blood either through a therapist, at a health center, or privately at places like Werlabs or Blodkollen. Vitamin D supplements Vitamin D comes in two forms: D2 and D3. Both have been shown to be effective in clinical studies for raising vitamin D levels in the blood, but vitamin D3 is preferred because it is much better utilized by the body and is the form that comes from natural sources: the sun and our food. Vitamin D3 can be extracted in different ways, and today there are mainly two natural sources used in supplements: sheep’s wool or lichen. Both are effective and good sources of active vitamin D3, and which one you choose is entirely up to you. The one from lichen is 100% plant-based, which can be an advantage for many. A vitamin that can be good to combine with D3 is vitamin K, which is also fat-soluble and works in synergy with vitamin D to build strong bones, as well as being important for blood clotting ability. How much vitamin D do we need? The best way to find out exactly how much vitamin D you need is to take a supplement for a couple of months and then have a blood test. The absorption of vitamin D supplements is individual and influenced by several factors. Therefore, it is impossible to give a recommendation that applies to everyone. The test is called 25-OH-D and can be ordered through a health center or private laboratory. For most people, the optimal target is a blood level of 50-80 ng/ml or 125-200 nmol/L (there are two different ways to express vitamin D measurements. In Sweden, ng/ml is most common). That said, we recommend these doses as a starting point during the winter months in the Nordic region: Adults: 1000-2500 IU daily (or 5000 IU every other day).Children under 12 years: 500 – 1000 IU daily. See our range of vitamin D supplements here!
Read more
Earth almond - nut-free superfood for a gluten-free diet
Despite its name, earth almond is not a nut but a species in the sedge family. The plant's tubers are called earth almonds or tiger nuts in Swedish, chufa in Spanish, and tiger nuts in English. It is simply a tuber like a potato and is cultivated, among other places, in Spain and West Africa. Chufa is popular in the paleo diet, at least in the USA, but not as much in Sweden yet. In the paleo world, tiger nuts are best known as a source of good soluble fiber; prebiotic fiber that feeds the good bacteria in the gut. Besides good fiber, earth almonds are rich in antioxidants, vitamins (especially vitamin E), and very rich in minerals (such as potassium and iron). They have a low GI (glycemic index) and do not raise blood sugar. They are said to be a superfood that, among other things, boosts our system, normalizes blood pressure, and keeps the "bad" cholesterol in check. In Chinese medicine, tiger nuts are used to strengthen the liver, stimulate the heart, and support normal sexual function. They can be eaten as they are but should be soaked (about 6 hours) so they don’t become too hard. They can be ground into flour in a blender and used for baking. You can make pancakes, pie crusts, and more. You can also make “mylk” from them, just like with nuts and seeds. Or you can, for example, make a tasty pesto. Chufa is perfect for both a gluten-free diet and nut allergy sufferers. Besides being a very nutritious little tuber, they are tasty, with a mild nutty flavor leaning towards sweet, and make a really good mylk. Cufamylk: 3 dl tiger nuts / chufas / earth almonds Wash 3 dl of tiger nuts thoroughly, place them in a bowl, cover with cold water, and let them soak for 18-24 hours. Drain and pour them into a powerful blender with about 8 dl of water, blend on high speed for 2 minutes. Then use a nut milk bag (you can find it here) to strain a smooth mylk. “Horchata” is a sweet drink made from chufa nuts from Valencia, Spain. Horchata is served both chilled and warm, with a little sweetener like stevia, xylitol, raw honey, and a pinch of cinnamon and possibly vanilla. Another interesting addition is lime zest; add some grated lime peel to the glass before pouring the mylk, and the drink gets a new flavor. Chufa pesto:1 large basil bunch2 dl tiger nuts (soaked for 6 hours)1-2 garlic cloves2 tbsp extra virgin organic olive oilsea salt to tasteBlend everything in a powerful blender.
Read more
Blue-green algae: Nature's nutrient package for optimal health
Blue-green algae are among the most nutrient-rich foods on the planet. The most commonly consumed forms of blue-green algae are two types: Spirulina and AFA algae. Both have superfood status due to their high concentrations of nutrients. Blue-green algae contain a high concentration of nutrients such as vitamins, minerals, enzymes, and essential amino acids. They are also rich in biologically active chlorophyll, protein, and phytonutrients. Additionally, the algae’s impressive nutritional content is easily absorbed. They are an excellent food for vegans, vegetarians, those who exercise a lot, children, and anyone who wants to add extra nutrition and color to their food. They suit all kinds of diets such as paleo, keto, LCHF, raw food, anti-inflammatory diets, rainbow diets, and more. Our three favorites 1. Hawaiian Spirulina The Hawaiian spirulina from Nutrex contains Spirulina Pacifica, which is rich in protein, vitamins such as A, K1, K2, B12, minerals and trace elements, phytonutrients like carotenoids (including beta-carotene), GLA, SOD, and phycocyanin, chlorophyll, and antioxidants. Their Spirulina Pacifica is cultivated in freshwater ponds on the Kona coast of the Big Island of Hawaii. The freshwater comes from aquifers (water naturally filtered through lava rock), and they add about 5% deep seawater (from 600 meters depth) to provide unique trace elements in the final product. Pure water produces a pure final product, and you can taste the difference. Nutrex Hawaii’s Ocean Chill Drying™ method dries the spirulina in just 3-7 seconds and eliminates oxidation and damage to carotenoids, enzymes, and other nutrients. The method uses very cold, deep seawater to provide moisture and uses less than one percent oxygen to preserve the phytonutrients. 2. Biosuperfood Biosuperfood contains four types of microalgae: Spirulina Pacifica, Spirulina Plantensis, Dunaliella, and Astaxanthin from Heomatoccoccus Pluvialis. Astaxanthin is a unique pigment considered one of the most biologically active antioxidants. Dunaliella Salina is a single-celled saltwater algae very rich in beta-carotene, among other nutrients. Biosuperfood provides complete protein, including all essential amino acids, vitamins A, B, C, E, K, minerals and trace elements, enzymes, essential fatty acids, chlorophyll, phytonutrients, antioxidants, and carotenoids. These algae were selected from thousands of ingredients tested by Dr. Kiriac* during many years of research aimed at finding a combination that could promote health for everyone. *BioNutrition, which produces Biosuperfood, was founded by Dr. Michael Kiriac after extensive research on algae and their nutritional and healing properties. Dr. Kiriac is one of the world’s leading authorities on algae nutrition and has received many international awards and medals for his research and conclusions in algae nutrition and ecology. Biosuperfood’s algae are cultivated in Siberia under controlled conditions in glass tubes completely protected from the atmosphere. There, they pump spring water from 600 meters deep in volcanic soils containing 92 different trace elements, including selenium and bicarbonate, at an ideal temperature of 35-37 degrees Celsius, directly into bioreactors without contact with air. The ideal environment for algae growth is thus fully controlled and contains absolutely no environmental toxins. The algae are grown without fertilizers, pesticides, antibiotics, growth hormones, or any additives. Despite this careful control, every batch is also tested for bacteria, pesticides, heavy metals, including radiation, and other environmental toxins. 3. E3AFA algae E3Live produces a unique blue-green algae – the AFA algae (Aphanizomenon flos-aquae) which provides a full spectrum of 65 easily accessible vitamins, minerals, trace elements, and amino acids, and contains more biologically active chlorophyll than any other known food, as well as being a source of a wide range of antioxidants. They also contain high-quality protein, all B vitamins, the blue pigment phycocyanin, and Phenylethylamine “PEA,” which is also found in cocoa. The AFA algae are harvested from Upper Klamath Lake in southern Oregon, USA, which is naturally rich in trace elements. The algae are then filtered to preserve the most living nutrition and further purified by centrifugation. The algae are then cooled and sold frozen or dried as a powder. E3Live uses Refractance Window™ drying with circulating water at atmospheric pressure to transfer heat to the product being dried. The moist product is applied to the upper surface of an infrared-transparent plastic conveyor belt that floats on the surface of the heated, circulating water. The water is recirculated and continuously heated to maintain temperature as heat energy is transferred to the product. Unlike hot air dryers that require several hours or freeze dryers that take between 12 and 72 hours, Refractance Window drying takes only 2 to 6 minutes to dry most products. Refractance Window drying has major advantages as ingredients are exposed to much milder temperatures and the final products retain high levels of sensory qualities such as color, taste, and aroma. Factors contributing to their quality include where and how they harvest, superior filtration and storage, as well as ongoing quality control and testing of all their products. All E3Live products are thoroughly tested by independent USDA-certified laboratories for food safety and sustainability and undergo various other purity tests.
Read more
Hawaiian Spirulina - Naturally Cultivated Sea Nutrition
Pure Hawaiian Spirulina Pacifica was founded in Kailua-Kona, Hawaii in 1990 by Dr. Gerald Cysewski, an expert in microalgae and carotenoids. Their mission was and is to harness the benefits of microalgae to improve health and well-being. Their algae farm is located on the pristine Kona coast on the Big Island of Hawaii. The microalgae farm was carved out of land that was once a barren lava flow. There, they now have freshwater ponds where they cultivate spirulina, utilizing the natural resources surrounding them; abundant warm sunlight, clean deep seawater, and freshwater. The freshwater comes from aquifers (water naturally filtered through lava rock) and they add about 5% deep seawater (from 600 meters depth) to provide unique trace elements in the final product. They have a special technique they call: Ocean Chill Drying™ – a system that eliminates oxidation and damage to carotenoids, enzymes, and other nutrients that can occur with conventional drying methods. This system dries the spirulina in just 3-7 seconds, relies on very cold, deep seawater to restore moisture, and uses less than one percent oxygen to preserve the phytonutrients. Spirulina is one of the earth’s oldest life forms, an algae. In the ancient Maya and Aztec cultures, it was highly valued for its healing and strengthening effects and was widely used as a dietary supplement. It was believed that this “food of the gods” provided quick energy and increased the body’s resistance and strength. Even in the African Kanembu people, Spirulina has been used as a source of nutrition since ancient times.Spirulina provides a broad spectrum of nutrients with many benefits. Its cell walls contain no cellulose, which allows its nutrients to easily pass through the intestinal wall and be utilized by our cells. Spirulina’s impressive nutritional content is easily absorbed. Spirulina contains protein (all essential amino acids), carbohydrates, minerals, vitamins (except C and D), gamma-linolenic acid, chlorophyll, phycocyanin, antioxidants, and SOD. It is also a complete protein that is easy for the body to digest. We offer it in powder and tablet form, which you can find here.
Read more
Spring Dragon - A natural herbal tea without caffeine
Spring Dragon is a fantastic tea based on the Gynostemma herb, known as Jiaogulan in Chinese, with extracts of Luo Han Guo, Schizandra, Goji, Astragalus, and Eleuthero (Siberian ginseng). It is a caffeine-free herbal tea made from some of the most famous "longevity" herbs in the world. The base consists of Gynostemma, which has traditionally been consumed like green tea; it has a similar taste but is milder and sweeter and contains no caffeine. Gynostemma is often described as the "immortality herb," as people who regularly consume Jiaogulan herbal tea are said to have a history of unusually long lifespans.The Gynostemma in this tea grows wild and abundantly on the fertile slopes of Great Immortal Peak in China. The Gynostemma fields are watered by a natural stream and have now been growing there for seventeen years. No chemicals have ever been used on the land. There is no road leading to the area, only narrow, winding walking paths. The result is the sweetest, strongest Gynostemma imaginable. In addition to Gynostemma, these amazing herbs are in the tea: Schizandra – Called the "quintessence of Chinese herbs." Schizandra is a delicious, exotic berry traditionally used to support all systems in the body. It is a potent antioxidant and adaptogen. Goji berries – Known in Asia as a premium "anti-aging herb," this small fruit is a true superfood, very rich in antioxidants and polysaccharides. Astragalus – As one of the most important herbs in herbal medicine, Astragalus is highly valued. It is a potent "energy tonic" and "blood tonic" according to Chinese medicine. Eleuthero – Eleuthero is also rich in saponins like ginseng and gynostemma and is an adaptogen. In Sweden, this root is best known as Siberian ginseng. Luo Han Guo – This delicious, exotic fruit has been used for centuries as a tonic to support lung health. It contains mogroside, a potent immune-supporting glucoside. This fruit gives the tea a wonderfully sweet taste naturally. Mint Dream / Iced Tea:1 Spring Dragon tea bag (brews about 7 dl of tea)1 dl freshly squeezed lime juice12 mint leaves plus extra mint for garnish6 tbsp xylitolAdjust to taste if needed. 1. Let one Spring Dragon tea bag steep in 7 dl of boiled water for at least 3 to 5 minutes. Let it cool to room temperature.2. Remove the stems from the mint leaves. Place them in a blender. Add a few dl of the cooled tea to the blender and blend for about 20-40 seconds at high speed to break down the mint leaves.3. Add the rest of the tea, lime juice, honey, and xylitol. Blend again for about 20 seconds.4. Serve over ice. Garnish with a mint sprig.
Read more
Sprout at Home - Nutritious Sprouts from Your Own Kitchen
Sprouting at home gives you easy access to nutrition right on your kitchen counter; it’s fresh, affordable, fun, and very tasty. And there are so many different sprouts to choose from, a flavor for every day. Sprouts are very nutrient-rich because they contain all the elements a plant needs for life and growth. Sprouting also increases the amounts and bioavailability of proteins, vitamins, and minerals, transforming them into nutritional powerhouses. Overall, sprouts provide high-quality nutrients and important sources of a variety of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and enzymes. It’s simply a plant in its most biologically concentrated form and an easy way to boost your daily nutrient intake. Sprouts and microgreens (watercress, wheatgrass, etc.) contain large amounts of living enzymes. Enzymes are catalysts for all your body’s functions, including digestion. Increased enzymes enable better breakdown and release of more nutrients from the food you eat, including vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and essential fatty acids – all vital building blocks for your body and health. Sprouts can thus provide various beneficial health effects, including improved digestion, better blood sugar levels, and a more alkaline body. Here are some of the most popular seeds to sprout and some of their benefits: Alfalfa: rich in antioxidants, vitamin K, vitamin C, and minerals. Broccoli: rich in minerals and vitamins. Clover: rich in carbohydrates, protein (30%), and minerals. Green lentils: rich in protein, dietary fiber, vitamin C, zinc, and copper. Mung beans: rich in protein, dietary fiber, and nutrients, vitamins C & B. Radish: an excellent source of folate and rich in vitamin C. Sunflower seeds: rich in protein, zinc, and B vitamins. Wheatgrass and barley grass: rich in minerals, vitamins, chlorophyll, and amino acids. There are many other seeds that can be used for sprouting, including quinoa, buckwheat, chickpeas, peas, and rye. Add sprouts daily to your salad, green juices, or eat them on their own to get an abundance of nutrients and enzymes. Remember to rinse your sprouts thoroughly before each time you eat them, whether you bought them or sprouted them yourself. We offer organic sprouting seeds.
Read more
What are adaptogens and how do they work?
Adaptogens are natural herbs/plants that help the body adapt. Adaptogens are not new but have been used in Chinese, Asian, and Indian Ayurvedic medicine for centuries. Adaptogens work to increase the body's ability to adapt to various forms of physical and mental stress, or stress caused by emotional problems in life, hectic schedules, strenuous activities, or changing situations. They simply help create a state of balance in the body and make the body more adaptable. Adaptogenic herbs are characterized by their safety as well as their effect on the whole body, rather than on individual organs. Their use provides both physical and mental well-being. Of all the medicinal plants known, only some are recognized as adaptogens, because by definition the herbs should promote overall health, with a special focus on stress reduction, and they should be safe to consume. How do adaptogens work? Adaptogens work a bit like a thermostat. When the thermostat senses that the room temperature is too high, it lowers it, and when the temperature is too low, it raises it. Adaptogens can calm you and increase your energy at the same time without overstimulating the system. By supporting adrenal function, they can help counteract the negative effects of stress and normalize bodily imbalances. They help cells eliminate toxic byproducts from the metabolism process, gain more energy, and use oxygen more efficiently. Popular adaptogens Chaga = Sprängticka in Sweden Reishi mushroom (Ganoderma lucidum) Cordyceps Panax Ginseng American Ginseng Siberian Ginseng (Eleuthero) = Russian Root in Sweden Ashwagandha Holy Basil (Tulsi) Rhodiola (Rose Root) Licorice Root He Shou Wu (Fo-Ti) Astragalus Schisandra Goji berries Gynostemma (Jiaogulan) Aloe Vera Moringa Maca Here you can find our full range of products containing adaptogens. Can everyone take adaptogens? Just like with other supplements and herbs, you should consult your doctor or nutritionist if you are: 1. Pregnant or breastfeeding. 2. Taking medications such as blood thinners, blood pressure medication, or similar.
Read more
Natural hair oils for winter treatment of dry hair
Take care of your hair during the cold season! Make a hair mask with a nourishing oil. The more well-known oils for hair include Argan oil, Jojoba oil, Coconut oil, Castor oil, Rosehip oil, Avocado oil, Carrot oil, and Apricot kernel oil. Less known are Baobab oil, Marula oil, Moringa oil, and Camellia oil. All are excellent as hair oils, which you can find here. How do you do it? Warm oils are very beneficial for the scalp and hair. Simply gently warm your chosen oil on very low heat in a saucepan. Then make a warm, lovely hair mask. Leave it on for 30 minutes, wash your hair with a mild, natural shampoo/conditioner. Shampoo first – then water, so the oil rinses out more easily. Camellia oil is also an excellent oil to use directly in the hair as it is a “dry” oil and doesn’t make the hair too greasy. If you want to take it a step further, you can add herbs, herbal teas, or essential oils. Some examples: To strengthen the hair: chamomile, nettle, horsetail, or burdock. To cleanse the hair: for scalp issues, for example: rosemary, parsley, sage, or witch hazel. To stimulate hair growth: peppermint, parsley, sage, chamomile, ginger, and cinnamon. Suitable for most: calendula, chamomile, lavender, dried rose petals.
Read more
5 keys to a strong immune system
Our immune system is a complex network that works to protect us from bacteria, viruses, and other “enemies.” Since it is a system with many parts and not a separate unit, there is no magic pill that will make it eternally strong. But a balanced immune system can be supported over time with daily healthy habits. In addition, there are specific nutrients and herbs that can be very helpful in maintaining normal immune function. Here is our list of the most important lifestyle choices and supplements you can use to stay “healthy for the long term” with a balanced and well-functioning immune system. 5 lifestyle choices for a healthier year Exercise regularly – experts recommend at least 150 minutes of active exercise per week. Fuel your immune system – A balanced diet with plenty of vegetables, sprouts, fruit, and berries will take you far. Prioritize rest – Make sure to get high-quality sleep and wake up refreshed at least a couple of times per week. Prevent stress – Include activities in your daily life that help you manage stress, such as spending time with loved ones, walking in nature, yoga & meditation, creating art, or other relaxing hobbies. Prevent the spread of infection – Even in 2021, it is still important that we all help by washing our hands often with soap and practicing social distancing when needed. The most important nutrients/supplements for normal immune function Besides the lifestyle factors above, we recommend maintaining good levels of the following nutrients to give the immune system the best conditions to function normally: Vitamin C is one of nature’s best defenses against stress and unwelcome guests in the body. It is best taken in larger doses as a course during cold seasons (4-6 grams per day for 1-2 weeks). Vitamin D is one of the most important nutrients for normal immune function. Especially in winter, we need to replenish this vitamin since the main natural source is sunlight. Zinc & Selenium are the two most important minerals for normal immune function. It’s good to take them together with vitamin C. Lactic acid bacteria. A healthy gut flora provides the conditions for optimal nutrient absorption, a good mood, and a strong body. Good bacteria help keep unwelcome bacteria at bay. That’s why they are sometimes called the “body’s first defense.” Medicinal Mushrooms are often used in natural medicine to build up and balance the body’s defenses over the long term. Our absolute favorites are Chaga and Reishi. Herbs that give the immune system “ammunition.” To eliminate unwelcome guests, the body also needs substances that are toxic to viruses and bacteria but not to the body’s own cells. This occurs naturally in a certain group of herbs. Some of our favorites are: garlic, olive leaf extract, oregano oil, sage & Pau d’arco. Cold-extracted honey is good for relieving minor pain and inflammation in mucous membranes, such as the nose and mouth, and has antioxidant properties and some antimicrobial effects. It helps with coughs and sore throats and can be used in tea or warm water with lemon. We hope this can be helpful and inspiring. Don’t hesitate to contact us if you have questions about what might suit you.
Read more
Three simple health habits for everyday wellness
There are things we do every day that can support our health. Here at the office, we have a few favorites we'd love to inspire you with. Here are three simple habits that make a big difference in our daily lives: Aromatherapy Aromatherapy. Humio humidifiers are used almost every day here at the office and also at home – especially during the winter months when indoor air can become dry and irritating for both the respiratory system and skin. We like to use peppermint during the day (invigorating) and lavender in the evening (relaxing). We find that these scents subtly and soothingly influence the mood and atmosphere in the room. Fresh juice Living hydration, vitamins, and minerals straight from nature’s pantry in the form of fresh juice is one of the best things we can do for our health in our eyes. We try to have a green juice every day and have developed a bit of an "addiction" to the nourishing feeling this "elixir" provides. Every morning, we ourselves drink at least 50 cl of celery juice. We offer several different juicers, and it can be hard to choose—contact us if you have any questions. Dried nuts, seeds & fruits Mikael, our CEO, uses his dehydrator more than any of us and always has "activated" nuts and seeds at home, meaning soaked and then dried nuts/seeds, which makes them easier to digest and also tastier. Another way to use the dehydrator is to make pancakes or burgers from leftovers from the juicer. In this video, you can see how easy it is to use a dehydrator.
Read more
