Health Blog
Health Blog
Tea tree water for impure and sensitive skin
Tea tree water is a hydrolate and an herbal water. When distilling flowers and plants, you always get a concentrated oil phase and a water phase. From tea tree, you get essential oil as well as tea tree water. The essential oil is always concentrated and should be used in small amounts, usually diluted. The water, on the other hand, can always be used undiluted directly on the skin. The benefits of tea tree water Tea tree is known for its antiseptic and antibacterial properties. Like all hydrolates, tea tree water has a lower pH around 4-5, which is closer to the skin’s own pH. This makes all hydrolates very pure and good facial waters. Akamuti has chosen to add a spray pump to the product, making it extra easy to use. Who is tea tree water good for? We often recommend tea tree water for those with impure, acne-prone skin. But also for red, flushed skin types. Thanks to its antibacterial properties, it is especially good for those who have yellow pustules (acne that can be squeezed out). Tea tree water is also good as an after-shower spray on armpits that tend to smell bad, on flaky, itchy, smelly, and oily scalp. Tea tree water consists only of water and trace amounts of tea tree. There are no additives like drying alcohol or irritating preservatives and perfumes. Therefore, it is preferable if you have thin, sensitive, or reactive skin. Benefit of few ingredients Another advantage of using simple ingredients in your skincare is that you can easily figure out what you tolerate and what you don’t. In a facial water or toner with many mixed ingredients, it is very difficult or impossible to know exactly what you don’t tolerate if you were to have a skin reaction.
Read more4 signs that it's time to switch to organic shampoo
Sometimes it’s hard to know how long to stick with an organic shampoo before it gets better – if it gets better. So when is it time to switch your organic shampoo to another? Here are four signs that it’s time. 1. Dry, itchy & dandruff-prone scalp If it itches or dries out the scalp, you know it’s the wrong shampoo. If it itches, you might be allergic to something in the shampoo. The scalp becomes dry, tight, and dandruff appears as a result; then the scalp is sensitive and you need to switch to a milder organic shampoo that foams less or an organic dandruff shampoo. If you know your scalp is sensitive, always choose fragrance-free or lightly scented shampoos. 2. Product buildup occurs The first washes feel great with nice hair as a result. Then the hair becomes stiff and dull. Both hair and scalp get buildup (within 2 days to about 2 weeks). The hair doesn’t get clean and the scalp smells unpleasant after shampooing. Eventually, it may start to itch with hair loss as the worst-case scenario. Probably the hair has too many chemical residues or chemicals are still being continuously added to the hair through other hair products. Residue from conventional hair care, styling, and hair color products is hard to wash out with an organic shampoo. Then switch everything to natural and pure products. If a mild organic shampoo is used, a more “tough” foaming shampoo may be necessary. Eco Cosmetics shampoos foam well but may be insufficient if the hair has a lot of chemical residues. In that case, a stronger shampoo like Bruns no. 5 is needed. If you’re already using an organic shampoo that foams well, chemical buildup can be removed with a vinegar hair rinse. Vinegar rinses help most people. Note that vinegar rinses may be needed for a longer period before results appear. 3. You get greasy hair quickly The hair does look nice after washing but gets greasy already after half a day to a day! The shampoo may also feel unusually inefficient. A shampoo that makes hair greasy quickly is too mild (foams too little). If you insist on such a shampoo and wash often (every day if needed), the scalp will eventually (which can take up to 3 months) produce less sebum/grease. The scalp balances out and the hair needs washing less often. If it gets so greasy that it starts to itch, do a vinegar rinse. Switch to a shampoo that foams more, or hang in there! Don’t be discouraged if mild shampoos (that foam little or not at all) don’t work at first. Gradually reduce use and give your hair and scalp an adjustment period. A shampoo that is too mild today might be perfect after six months. 4. When you get static hair If you get frizzy, charged, and flyaway hair. This usually happens in winter when the hair becomes charged due to large temperature changes. But dry hair tends to become charged even when it’s not winter. Then switch to a more nourishing shampoo, or enrich the shampoo with a few drops of your favorite hair oil. Do hair masks and use nourishing conditioner.
Read more3 simple tips against smelly feet & armpits
When it starts to smell bad, that's when bacteria thrive. Nothing dangerous, but maybe not so pleasant. Here are three simple tips on what you can do about smelly feet and armpits. 1. Wash with something other than soap Soaps and shower gels are alkaline, and bacteria thrive best in alkaline environments. Therefore, do not wash your armpits or feet with soap if you have odor problems. Instead, wash with something acidic like apple cider vinegar or lemon. You can also wash with an antibacterial oil like coconut oil. Then wipe off the oil with a damp towel. Here you can read about 15 ways to use coconut oil as a multi-purpose product. 2. Use balancing sprays Sage water is pH-balancing on the skin. It is also antibacterial, so it’s perfect to spray on armpits and feet after washing. This restores the pH and keeps bacteria in check. We also have a good spray that counteracts odor from Gröna Gredelina. It freshens up everything from gym shoes and boxing gloves to yoga mats. 3. Use organic deodorant Organic deodorants are effective without blocking the sweat function. Eco deodorants reduce sweating and prevent bad odor. For feet, cream deodorant works very well. Natural deo has a foot deodorant in cream form. A very thin layer is enough and it is incredibly effective. Odylique’s deodorant spray works just as well in shoes as under the arms since the formula uses a combination of botanical ingredients with antibacterial properties to absorb moisture and herbal extracts to naturally stop bacteria.
Read moreFind the right organic face mask for your skin type
Too much sun, a nutrient-poor diet, and too little sleep can throw your skin out of balance. Face masks quickly restore radiance and firmness to the skin. It’s a “quick fix” we welcome with open arms. There are many varieties for all needs and purposes. Often, when a face mask doesn’t have a good effect, it’s because the wrong type was chosen for your skin. We clarify the different types so you can easily find the perfect face mask. Something common to our organic face masks is that: they provide intensive treatment with quickly visible or noticeable results. they contain active and/or nourishing ingredients that specifically target a skin problem. they never contain petroleum-based ingredients. These make the skin immediately soft and smooth but clog pores and can cause problems in the long run. Hydrating mask that gives radiance to dry skin The sun dries out the skin and weakens its barrier protection. A hydrating mask replenishes moisture and strengthens the barrier. The hydrating mask contains ingredients that boost the skin’s moisture level and make it soft and supple. Radiance returns, and with improved hydration, dryness lines also diminish. A hydrating mask can be used by all skin types. It is especially suitable for those with skin that: feels tight and dry. has lost its radiance. feels lifeless. has fine lines. 100% Pure Green tea water bomb mask consists of “hydrogel,” i.e., 95% organic aloe juice and 5% plant cellulose and plant extracts. The mask has a gel-like consistency and is firm enough to be easy to apply. Evolve Gold Face Mask is a mask that counteracts signs of aging while hydrating your skin and giving it radiance. Rose Quartz Facial Polish is a wonderful, pink exfoliating scrub and mask that leaves the skin nourished, soft, and crystal clear. Anti-age mask that revitalizes and firms tired skin An anti-age mask supplies the skin with moisture, oils, and active ingredients. It hydrates, revitalizes, and regenerates the skin. An anti-age mask is suitable for skin that: has lost its firmness. looks tired and dull. has fine lines. has a dull complexion. Evolve Miracle C Vitamin Mask is an exfoliating face mask. It contains maca, AHA acids (2.5%), and plant collagens that give new energy and glow to your face. Evolve Radiant Glow 2-in-1 Mask Scrub is an award-winning exfoliating face mask. A combination of raw cocoa powder, coconut granules, and clay that leaves the skin silky smooth with a beautiful glow. BYBI Acid Gold is an exfoliating and deep-cleansing face mask that gives the skin new radiance and clarity. Acid Gold contains a blend of natural alpha hydroxy acids (AHA), including lactic acid (derived from blueberry extract). Clay mask that deeply cleanses impure skin There are many different types of clays, and what they have in common is that they are rich in minerals and have an absorbing effect. There are clay masks for all skin types, but they are especially suitable if you have: oily skin. impure skin or acne. clogged skin. dull skin. Dr Sannas clay mask contains clay, spirulina, and red algae. It is suitable for anyone who wants a cleansing face mask. Eco by Sonya Face Compost Mask is a beautifully purple, antioxidant-rich treatment mask with clay and acai, perfect for all skin types. Loelle’s face masks are made only of clay and suit different skin types. Red for normal to dry skin. White for sensitive skin. Green for impure, combination, and clogged skin. A bonus is that they also work for hair washing. Evolve True Balance SOS Mask is a beautifully green clay face mask that contains, among other things, Noni extract, Moringa, and Salix alba, which is a natural form of salicylic acid. Sheet mask for an effective one-time treatment A sheet mask is a single-use mask made of a cloth soaked in a serum that is easily absorbed by the skin. The mask is shaped to fit the face with openings for eyes, nose, and mouth. It is recommended to leave it on for 10-20 minutes. 100% Pure offers sheet masks for several different skin types. They are 100% natural and truly an effective quick treatment that is also fun to use. Sante’s face masks last for two applications. They come in different varieties for different skin types. After use, you massage the remaining serum into the skin. Multimasking for a customized treatment Multimasking means applying different masks specially tailored to each area of the skin. This gives you a more precise treatment for each area’s needs. For example, you can use a balancing and deep-cleansing mask on the T-zone, hydration on the cheeks, and extra care under the eyes. Mask on and good luck!
Read moreNatural hair mask for dry hair & sensitive scalp
Do you have dry hair? Maybe an itchy or oily scalp? Does it get worse during autumn and winter? Then an oil treatment might help. DIY: Make your own oil treatment Start by choosing an oil. More well-known oils for hair include argan oil, jojoba oil, coconut oil, almond oil, castor oil, sesame oil, rosehip oil, and avocado oil. Less known are the African baobab, marula oil, moringa oil, camellia oil, carrot oil, black cumin oil, and macadamia oil. But all are suitable as hair oils. Apply the oil directly to the scalp and hair or only to the scalp. Wait 30 minutes. Wash your hair with a mild, natural shampoo and conditioner. DIY: Warm oil treatment It’s also easy to make your own warm hair treatment, which is very nourishing and pleasant. Warm your chosen oil on low heat and apply it to the hair (not too hot), both on the scalp and all the way to the ends. Wait 30 minutes. Wash your hair with a mild, natural shampoo and conditioner. DIY: Mix your own hair oil with different herbs, scents & oils Add 3 tablespoons of oil to a saucepan. You can choose one type of base oil or make a blend, for example 1 tablespoon jojoba, 1 tablespoon coconut, and 1 tablespoon castor oil. Pour the oils into a saucepan, set to low heat, and add 1 tablespoon of your chosen herbs (see list below). Let it infuse for about 30 minutes on very low heat, stirring often. Add more oils or essential scents (see list below). Then strain the oil into a small glass container using, for example, a coffee filter or a fine mesh strainer. You can store the oil for up to three months in a tightly sealed glass bottle or jar. Add oils & scents 3-5 drops of essential oils such as rosemary, lavender, tea tree, or peppermint. Essential oils have different qualities and can, for example, help soothe an itchy scalp. 1 teaspoon rosehip oil – reduces hair loss and moisturizes. 1 teaspoon carrot oil – promotes hair growth. 1 teaspoon black cumin oil – reduces hair loss and moisturizes. 1 teaspoon aloe vera – moisturizes. 1 teaspoon neem oil – good for combating dandruff/itchiness. Add herbs (dried or extracts) To strengthen hair: chamomile, nettle, horsetail, or burdock. To cleanse hair (e.g., for scalp issues): rosemary, parsley, sage, or witch hazel. To stimulate hair growth: peppermint, parsley, sage, chamomile, ginger, or cinnamon. Suitable for most: calendula, chamomile, lavender, or dried rose petals.
Read more9 benefits of cold-pressed jojoba oil for skin & hair
Why is jojoba oil so popular? The list of reasons could go on forever, but here are some! What is jojoba oil? Jojoba oil is actually not an oil but a type of liquid wax extracted from the seeds of the jojoba bush. 9 benefits of using jojoba oil It makes the skin silky smooth without being too greasy, so it suits most skin types. Does not clog pores and is popular even for combination/oily skin. Some say jojoba oil balances sebum production, thereby reducing acne and other impurities. Mild and soothing on sensitive skin, such as dry and cracked skin. Perfect for removing stubborn makeup. Natural sun protection factor 4. Excellent moisturizer and softener for problematic skin, e.g., those with atopic eczema. Many find it relieves and even helps clear eczema. Many use it as a hair treatment to add moisture, softness, and shine. Some use the oil as is, while others create their own blends to suit specific hair types. Very good for dry and split ends. Good for dry scalp, seborrhea, and even dandruff. Have we missed any uses of jojoba oil? Please share your tips!
Read moreHomemade rehydration solution with natural ingredients
It is a good source of vitamin C and minerals. It supports the body's pH balance. It supports skin quality. It supports digestion. It also provides fresh breath. It supports the liver and helps prevent kidney stones. If you don’t feel like making your own electrolyte drink, we have ready-mixed electrolyte powders in various flavors. Recipe: Make natural rehydration solution at home Ingredients 100 ml freshly squeezed lemon juice. 200 ml coconut water* (or regular water). 1 tsp organic honey or maple syrup. A pinch of Himalayan salt Instructions Mix everything until the salt dissolves. Drink spread out over time, not all at once. *Dr Antonio Martins coconut water is wonderful, of the highest quality. Dr Antonio Martins has developed a complex mechanical processing method patented in 2006. They use a sophisticated system with specially developed microfiltration technology. Over the years, they have developed a complete raw material chain, from cultivation, through harvest and production to transport and storage, to always offer the world’s best coconut juice outside of a coconut. They ship the raw materials for the coconut juice to Europe by cargo ship in refrigerated containers. The bottling then takes place in a finely coordinated cold aseptic process.
Read moreSwitch to organic shampoo? 4 tips for better results
Many people choose to gradually replace their bathroom cabinet contents with more sustainable options. Unfortunately, it’s not uncommon that when switching to an organic natural shampoo, you suddenly get dirty, greasy, and dull hair. But don’t give up! There are a few important things you should consider when switching to a natural shampoo. 1) Avoid products with non-water-soluble chemicals A naturally pure shampoo does not contain strong detergents like SLS/SL. Therefore, organic and natural shampoos cannot wash away non-water-soluble chemicals from your other hair products. This means you need to carefully check all your hair products, from styling products to conditioners. When using a natural shampoo, your other hair products must not contain silicones (dimethicone) or mineral oils (paraffin), i.e., substances that are not water-soluble. Since your new organic and natural shampoo cannot wash away these substances, they will gradually clog your scalp. Your hair will then become lifeless, stiff, and covered with chemicals. 2) Clean thoroughly with your old shampoo Your old shampoo, which lathers a lot and contains strong detergents like SLS, can remove non-water-soluble substances from your other styling products. This way, you can “reset” your hair and scalp with your conventional shampoo and then use your organic shampoo at the next wash. However, remember to keep your hair free from non-water-soluble chemicals afterward. Throw away all non-natural products. 3) “Reset” your hair with a vinegar rinse If your old shampoo contains non-water-soluble chemicals or silicones, or if it has gotten to the point where your scalp itches or you are even losing hair, a conventional shampoo rarely helps to clean properly. You then need to rinse your hair and scalp with apple cider vinegar. It restores the pH balance, removes chemicals, and gives your hair shine. Apple Cider Vinegar Rinse Dilute about 1-3 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar in a glass of water. Rinse your hair with the diluted vinegar after shampooing. Then use conditioner as usual. 4) Find the right shampoo for your hair type Just like conventional shampoos, there is a wide range of organic and natural shampoos. It may be that the shampoo you have chosen does not work for your specific hair type. Feel free to ask us, and we will help you find a shampoo and conditioner that suit your hair and needs. Or you can try different ones until you find the right one. Keep testing until you find 2-3 different ones you like so you can alternate shampoos. There are several signs that it’s time to change shampoo!
Read moreGluten-free waffles with homemade berry jam
2.5 dl brown rice flour 1 dl coconut flour 1 dl buckwheat flour 2 teaspoons baking powder 1 teaspoon salt 2 organic eggs (If you don’t want to eat eggs, replace with 2 tbsp chia seeds and 6 tbsp water. Mix and let sit for about 20 minutes until it becomes a pudding) 0.6 dl coconut oil 3.5 dl almond milk mixed with 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar 2 teaspoons honey, agave syrup, coconut sugar syrup or maple syrup How to make Heat up a waffle iron. Whisk eggs (or chia pudding), coconut oil, and almond milk in a bowl. Whisk all the dry ingredients in another bowl. Pour the wet batter into the dry and mix by hand; the batter should be thick but pourable. Fill the waffle iron with a scoop of batter and let cook until done. You can use coconut oil to grease the waffle iron. If you don’t have a waffle iron, you can make pancakes instead. Enjoy with your favorite jam! Raw jam with goji berries & chia seeds Ingredients 2.5 dl berries, e.g. strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, blackberries, cloudberries – whichever you like best. If using frozen berries, let them thaw first. 1 dl goji berries soaked in water overnight (drain the water before adding them) 1-2 tablespoons honey, xylitol, coconut palm sugar or agave syrup 1 pinch vanilla powder (optional) 2 tablespoons chia seeds 2 tbsp water How to make Mash all the berries and sweetener together with a fork. Add the rest and mix well. Pour into a clean jar, preferably with a tight-fitting lid. Let sit for about 30 minutes so you can see the chia seeds swell. Store in the fridge; it keeps for about a week.
Read moreNatural sweetening with lucuma & mesquite in vegan recipes
Mesquite and Lucuma are two wonderful natural sweetening options from South America that add more creaminess to your cooking. 6 reasons to love lucuma Lucuma is a fruit. Natural and tasty sweetener with a low GI. Healthy fibers. Rich in vitamins and minerals. Delicious in ice cream, desserts, and smoothies – gives a special, sweet flavor and fluffiness. Gluten-free and plant-based. 6 reasons to love mesquite Mesquite is a bean. Natural and tasty sweetener with a low GI. Healthy fibers. Rich in minerals. Adds that little extra to desserts and smoothies – gives a special "caramel/molasses" flavor and creaminess. Gluten-free and plant-based. Vegan ice cream with lucuma 1 dl lucuma powder 2 dl natural cashew nuts (soaked for 2 hours and drained) 2 tsp real vanilla powder 0.5 dl coconut syrup, yacon syrup, agave syrup, or honey. 2 dl water 1 pinch Himalayan salt or sea salt (optional, enhances the flavor) Blend everything in a good blender, pour into an ice cream mold, and let it sit in the freezer overnight. Cocoa and spinach smoothie with lucuma 2 large handfuls of fresh baby spinach 2 chopped pears 1 tbsp cacao nibs 1 tbsp almond butter 1 tsp lucuma powder 2 dl water 2 dl ice Blend everything into a smoothie. Pour and feel free to decorate with cacao nibs. Vegan, sugar-free caramel sauce with lucuma & mesquite 1 tbsp lucuma powder 1 tbsp mesquite powder 2 tablespoons coconut syrup, yacon syrup, or agave syrup – you can add more to taste, depending on how sweet you like it. Blend everything and you have a caramel sauce that can be used for most desserts. Vanilla and cocoa smoothie with lucuma & mesquite 2 dl almond milk or oat milk 1 dl warm water 1 tsp maca (optional) 1 tsp mesquite (optional) 1 tsp lucuma 1 tbsp cocoa powder or carob 1/2 tsp real vanilla powder 1 tsp honey, xylitol, agave syrup, or 2 drops stevia Blend everything into a smoothie. Pour and feel free to decorate with cacao nibs.
Read more6 best tips to naturally strengthen the brain
When the brain feels good, the body usually feels good too, and vice versa. At the same time, there are specific lifestyle choices we can make to optimize the conditions for the brain and all its functions. Here are 6 things that are very important for brain health. 1. More physical exercise Exercise is the closest our modern science has come to a miracle medicine. Regular exercise helps keep us fit, increases energy levels, contributes to mental and emotional balance, and increases your chances of being "healthy long-term" even in old age. In the book "Brain Strong," Swedish psychiatrist Anders Hansen writes about how physical exercise can be the single most important lifestyle choice we can make for a healthy and well-functioning brain. 2. Increase intake of antioxidants, healthy fatty acids & anti-inflammatory foods Right after exercise comes nutrition for brain function. Here we have the opportunity to either help or hinder our brain's balance depending on our habits. Limiting sugar and flour, as well as increasing healthy fats, vegetables, and antioxidant-rich foods like berries, olives, turmeric, and sprouts is something most experts recommend. It can also be very helpful to take supplements that provide these nutrients in concentrated form. Our most popular supplements for the brain Plant-based Omega 3 – A very important fatty acid for nerve cell health. AFA algae Astaxanthin – Helps protect nerve cells from oxidative stress. MCT oil – Provides energy. Other essential vitamins and minerals for a strong brain Especially vitamin C. B vitamins are involved in energy production and cell metabolism, which is incredibly important for brain cells. Enough vitamin B12 provides energy, improves memory, and makes it easier to learn new things. Vitamin D helps keep the brain in shape throughout life; especially after the age of 50. Magnesium helps regulate nerve impulses in the brain and throughout the nervous system. Vitamin E is an important antioxidant that primarily protects cells from damage related to oxidative stress caused by free radicals. The brain is very sensitive to oxidative stress. Zinc can help the body fight and prevent inflammation, which may relieve symptoms of brain fog. Nootropics: Nutrients that support the brain The term nootropic comes from the Greek words for "mind." Nootropic substances and supplements improve the brain's executive functions in this article. 3. Optimize your microflora The fact that the gut has a major impact on our brain's health may not be obvious to everyone, but more and more research points to this being the case. Thinking about what you eat that nourishes your gut bacteria could be the key to a strong brain. Some examples of foods rich in prebiotics (i.e., “food” for the good gut bacteria) are banana, Jerusalem artichoke, all kinds of onions, asparagus, and apples. It can also be very helpful to take a supplement with healthy gut bacteria. Then it’s important to choose one of high quality with a large number of strong bacteria that really have a chance to stay and benefit your gut. 4. Use your brain “Use it or lose it” applies well to both body and brain. Using your brain throughout life, learning new things like languages, playing an instrument, playing challenging games, or studying something you’ve always wanted to know more about are examples of hobbies shown to strengthen brain health and lay the foundation for lifelong mental capacity. In this text, you can read more about this and get tips. 5. Turn off your phone and socialize In a long-term study published by the American Journal of Public Health, a large social network is linked to a reduced risk of dementia later in life. Other studies have pointed to links between social bonds and the risk of Alzheimer’s. It seems our brains are made for and thrive best when we socialize with each other. Studies have also been done on stress-related conditions showing that social breaks at work reduce the release of stress hormones and increase “feel-good hormones.” Another way to give your brain a chance to recover and get “mental nourishment” is to spend time in nature, for example by taking walks in the forest or by the sea regularly. Why not do it together? Something that seems to have the opposite effect on brain health is being constantly connected and staring at a computer or phone screen. Perhaps a good strategy to break this welfare problem is to turn off your phone when socializing with friends or play a board game with family instead of turning on the TV? 6. Get regular sleep-ins Did you know that good sleep habits lay the foundation for both your mental and physical health, in both the short and long term? Maybe sleep should be called “Vitamin S” and classified as one of the most essential “supplements” we can give our body? Poor sleep habits are linked not only to unstable moods and reduced social skills but also as a risk factor for cardiovascular disease, dementia, and Alzheimer’s. 6 important things you can do to support your night’s sleep Sleep in a dark, cool, and quiet environment as much as possible. Try to make sure you sleep at least 7-8 hours. Prefer exercising in the morning rather than late in the evening. Avoid drinking coffee after 2:00-4:00 PM depending on how sensitive you are. Dim the lighting an hour before bedtime. Use a blue light filter, such as flux, on your computer and phone in the evening. Please tell us what you do to strengthen your brain!
Read more5 natural uses for neem oil in the home
This Indian oil has a long tradition. Neem as a plant has been used for many different purposes for more than 4500 years. A neem tree (Azadirachta Indica) can grow up to 25 meters tall and can live up to 200 years. The neem tree, called "the village pharmacy" in its homeland India and "the tree with 40 cures" in Africa, contains more than 100 separate chemical compounds that help explain its enormous potential. Because of neem's extraordinary properties, its bark, leaves, flowers, seeds, and fruit pulp are used to treat a wide range of health issues. The cold-pressed oil is extracted from the tree's seed kernels. The oil is thick in consistency and has a distinctive strong scent that some may be sensitive to. If you are curious about studies on neem, you can find lots of interesting information here. We love multifunctional products, and neem oil is one of them. Here are five tips on how to use it. 1. Natural insect repellent against pests and aphids It’s frustrating when your chili plant or a favorite plant gets visited by tiny bugs. But with neem oil, you can naturally get rid of them. Insects and pests usually refuse to eat any plant coated with neem oil. It is a naturally safe and biodegradable product widely used as an insecticide in various parts of the world. Instead of killing pests, neem oil controls them through a variety of methods, including simply repelling them and disrupting metamorphosis. The neem tree is almost never attacked by insects, but bees flock to its flowers for nectar, and birds can eat its ripe fruits. DIY: Natural insect repellent The mixture can be used on both indoor and outdoor plants, but be careful if you have ladybugs, as it can harm them. Mix 1 tsp neem oil with ½ tsp soap in 1 liter of water. Pour into a spray bottle and spray on your plants. You can also spray on the soil and around the stem. 2. Combat dandruff Dandruff or itchy scalp is no fun. But neem oil’s properties soothe and help the scalp regain better balance and reduce itching. Mix a few drops of neem oil into your shampoo or conditioner. Massage in and leave for a few minutes, then rinse out. Repeat regularly until the problem disappears. There are also plenty of ready-made shampoos and conditioners containing neem oil, such as 100% Pure Burdock & Neem Healthy Scalp Shampoo and Conditioner. 3. Foot care – nail and foot fungus Fungus on feet and nails can be stubborn. Neem oil’s antifungal properties can be helpful. Make a foot bath. Add 5-10 drops of neem oil to warm water and stir, then sit and relax for a while. For deeper foot care, you can make an oil blend to rub on your feet afterward. Mix 70 ml safflower oil and 30 ml neem oil, add 10 drops of tea tree essential oil, and blend in a bottle. Apply to your feet and let the mixture absorb into the skin. Store the mixture in a dark, cool place. 4. Minor wounds and skin irritations For external treatment, neem seed oil, leaves, and bark are used in India. Neem seed oil has a very beneficial effect on several types of skin problems and is used, among other things, for treating red rashes, psoriasis, dry skin, and especially itching. For minor wounds, scrapes, and skin irritations, neem oil’s properties can be helpful. Mix neem oil with a more fluid vegetable oil such as safflower oil. Use about one-tenth neem oil in the mixture. Apply the mixture over the affected area. 5. Anti-mosquito Mosquitoes dislike the scent of neem oil. Mix coconut oil with about one-tenth neem oil. If you want to mask the scent of neem oil, you can add a few drops of essential oil (2 drops/10 ml mixture). Suggested options are lavender or lemon eucalyptus, whose scents insects and ticks dislike. Apply to exposed areas of the body. Keep in mind Neem oil has a very strong scent, so it’s good to mix it with essential oils. Neem oil is thick and can solidify at temperatures below 20 degrees Celsius. To make it more fluid, gently warm it in a water bath. Neem oil should not be used on small children, by pregnant women, or while breastfeeding. Neem oil tastes really, really bad, so avoid getting it in your mouth. How do you use neem oil? Feel free to share and inspire others with a comment!
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