Health Blog
Health Blog
Genuine organic soap - gentle on skin and the environment
Vermont Soap Organics in the USA manufactures unique and natural body care products of benefit and value. They are also an example of how companies can contribute to positive social change. They emphasize wholeness in all departments within the company through communication, participation in the growth process, and responsibility among employees. They commit to conducting their business in an environmentally conscious way and emphasize reuse and recycling, and perhaps most importantly for the environment; they use only natural base ingredients from sustainable sources in all their products. Their products are certified according to the USDA organic food standard (USDA Organic) from Vermont Organic Farmers (VOF). Naturally, none of their products contain hidden animal ingredients, which is otherwise common in conventional soap. What is Castile soap? The word Castile in Vermont Soap Organics’ liquid Castile soaps is a reference to La Castilla – a region in central Spain historically significant in the history of soap making. In America, Castile means a soap made with olive oil, usually a liquid soap of olive oil and coconut oil. But always check your ingredients – some companies add synthetic chemicals to their so-called Castile soap. Vermont Soap Organics does not. And all their ingredients are organic and carefully selected. Their liquid Castile soap contains only saponified coconut oil, jojoba oil, olive oil, essential oil for fragrance (varies depending on which scent you buy), rosemary extract as a natural “preservative,” and aloe vera. Nothing else. And it is 100% organic. Their foaming soap contains only aloe vera juice, saponified oils of coconut oil, shea butter, olive oil, sunflower oil, and jojoba oil, vegetable glycerin (glycerin), essential oil for fragrance, and rosemary extract as a natural “preservative.” And it is 100% organic. How are their solid organic soaps made? They are made using a modern version of a 250-year-old method. Certified organic oils of palm, coconut, olive, and palm kernel (all oils come from sustainable sources) are mixed at precise temperatures with an alkaline solution*. *To make soap, you need an oil (which is an acid), an alkaline base, and water. Saponification is a reaction between these ingredients that results in the creation of soap. The oil and alkali undergo a structural change to form solid or liquid soap. For the alkaline base, it is traditional to use potassium hydroxide (INCI: potassium hydroxide) to make liquid soap and sodium hydroxide (INCI: sodium hydroxide) for solid soap. The oils used in these organic, handmade soaps are carefully selected by the soap makers with regard to the character they give to the final soap. At Vermont Soap, they use the highest quality organic oil. They have experimented for a long time and arrived at the best blend of oils. Coconut oil creates batches of glycerin, makes good lather, and is very stable. Olive oil has natural antioxidants and makes the soap creamier. Each oil is used for a specific reason. Note that oil and alkali must be in perfect balance to make the perfect soap; if you add too much of a specific oil, it won’t turn out well. This is a science that takes a long time to learn, and after several months of countless trials, Vermont Soap found the perfect recipe. At Vermont Soap, the batch for the solid soaps is mixed for hours so that it thickens slowly. When ready, botanical and organic herbs, spices, and grains are added. The batch is then poured into wooden molds and kept warm for about three days. As the soap solidifies, alkali salts begin to rise to the top like cream. Around the fourth day, the soap, now solid in block form, is removed from the molds, skimmed of all alkali salts, and cut into individual bars. The soaps are then placed on custom oak and stainless steel drying racks and cured for about three weeks. This process produces the mildest and finest solid soap available. Why should we buy natural soap? These soaps last about twice as long as conventional ones and are very moisturizing and soothing for the skin. No measurable free alkali, i.e., residues of sodium hydroxide, remain when the soap is finished. This is part of the reason their soap is so mild. Many modern conventional soaps are made in a mass-produced industrial way. They may, for example, use nut or beef tallow instead of oils. Conventional soaps often contain many synthetic additives, for example, to make the soap lather more. Glycerin is usually separated out to be sold elsewhere, whereas in natural soap it is stirred back in during soap production. Problems in mass-produced soap making can include low-quality base ingredients, alcohol, synthetic colors and fragrances, and preservatives. The soap then lacks moisture fundamentally and tends to have alkali residues left in it, which will irritate the skin. Oil and alkali must be balanced to make the perfect soap, as we mentioned earlier. Problems arise when alkali and oil do not chemically combine; alkali salts remain in the product. Excess alkali results in strong soap that dries out the skin. People with sensitive skin are especially prone to irritation from these types of soaps. Why all this? It costs less, takes less time, and yields greater profit. We believe it is better to buy an organic soap that may cost more but lasts longer and benefits the skin, health, environment, and animals. We are proud to sell Vermont Soap Organics! You can find their soaps here.
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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 (Golden 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 medications, or similar.
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Goji Berry & Adaptogenic Smoothies for Health and Well-being
Wash goji berries in cold water (about 1/2 dl goji berries to 7 dl water). Place them in a heat-resistant container with a lid – for example, a teapot or a teacup – and pour in hot water. Cover with the lid and let them sit for 1 hour. Then just enjoy. Simple and nourishing. Adaptogen protein smoothie (1 serving) 3 dl unsweetened almond milk or water 140 g frozen cauliflower pieces 3 ice cubes 1 scoop plant-based protein 4 small pitted dates (or two large ones) 2 tbsp tahini 1 tbsp maca powder 1 tsp schisandra powder 1/2 tsp sea salt (not needed if tahini is salted) 1/2 tsp cinnamon Blend everything in a powerful blender, pour into a beautiful glass, and enjoy. Adaptogen mushroom/coffee smoothie (2 servings) 7 dl hot organic coffee or chaga tea if you prefer 1 1/2 tbsp chaga extract, reishi extract, or cordyceps extract 1 tbsp cocoa powder 3 tbsp hemp seeds 1 tbsp maca powder 1/4 tsp vanilla powder 1 tbsp cashew butter or another nut butter you like 2 tbsp coconut cream 1 tbsp honey or 2 dates if you are vegan 1 tbsp coconut oil a pinch of cinnamon a pinch of cardamom Blend everything in a blender, pour into beautiful cups, and enjoy.
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7 simple and healthy juice recipes for your juicer
These juices work best in a juicer. If you don’t have one, you can use a powerful blender; the difference is that the juice needs to be drunk immediately and the texture won’t be as smooth. But better that than no juice at all! If you’re thinking about getting a juicer, you can read this article to find the right one. Morning Favorite Juice 2 celery stalks1 green apple1 piece of ginger1/2 cucumber1/2 lemon, peeled Kids' Favorite Juice 1 green apple1/2 pineapple, peeled1/2 cucumber1 large handful of mint leaves Rise & Shine Juice 1 orange, peeled2 beets1/2 cucumber4-5 kale leaves Beta-Carotene Kick Juice 3 carrots1 large piece of ginger1 apple1/2 lemon, peeled Green Beauty Juice 1/2 cucumber2 celery stalks5 large romaine lettuce leaves1 handful of pea shoots1/2 zucchini1 large handful of spinach1 piece of ginger Detox Me Juice 1/2 broccoli1/2 cucumber2 celery stalks1 green apple1/2 lemon, peeled1 large handful of coriander Sweet Love Juice 1/2 pineapple, peeled4-5 kale leaves1 ripe banana, peeled Keep experimenting and trying different blends until you find your favorites.
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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.
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Healthy chocolate recipes with dietary supplements
What you need for the cake 100 g spelt flour 100 g brown rice flour 1/2 dl maple syrup 4 tbsp cocoa powder 1 tsp baking powder 1/2 tsp natural salt 5 tbsp vegetable oil 2 tsp vanilla extract 1 tsp apple cider vinegar 2.5 dl water 1 flaxseed egg – “vegan egg” = 2 tablespoons of flaxseeds mixed with 6 tablespoons of water, let rest for 10 minutes. This can also be done with chia seeds. How to make it? Mix all the wet ingredients together.Mix all the dry ingredients together.Mix the wet and dry ingredients together.Bake at 180 degrees for 40-50 minutes.Let cool and now make the topping. Topping 1 large ripe avocado 1 tbsp cocoa powder 4 tbsp coconut oil 2 tbsp coconut milk Contents of 4 Terranova Beauty Complex capsules. Mix all ingredients together until creamy and use as topping when the cake has cooled. Delicious chocolate cream for young and old: 2.5 dl hazelnuts (soaked overnight) 2 dl dates 2 tbsp coconut butter 2 tsp coconut flakes 1/2 tsp vanilla extract 3 tsp cocoa powder 5 capsules Terranova Living Multinutrient or another multivitamin in capsule form that can be opened. For children, you can use this; Green Child Living Multivitamin. Blend all ingredients in a mixer until smooth, then just enjoy. Hot chocolate with mushrooms 3 dl almond milk or oat milk 1 tbsp cocoa powder 1 tbsp coconut sugar 1/2 tsp Chaga extract, Reishi extract or Cordyceps extract powder 1/4 tsp vanilla powder or vanilla extract Smoothie with Lifedrink 1 scoop plant-based protein powder or Terranova Lifedrink 2 dl unsweetened almond milk or oat milk 1 dl frozen berries 1/4 tsp cinnamon 1/4 tsp cardamom 1/4 tsp ginger a pinch of clove if you like it 1 banana 2 tbsp almond butter 2 ice cubes Blend in a powerful mixer – perfect after training or as a snack. Delightful ice chocolate – Recipe from Erica Palmcrantz About 2 dl liquid coconut oil 1 tsp cinnamon 3 tbsp cocoa powder, or more if you want darker chocolate 1/2 dl hemp seeds 1 dl mulberries a pinch of salt 1 dl cashew nuts, coarsely chopped Tip for a Christmas feeling is to mix in grated orange peel and clove or peppermint oil. Mix all ingredients except the coconut oil in a bowl. Melt the coconut oil in a lukewarm water bath. Stir in the coconut oil. Spread on baking paper and let set in the fridge or freezer. Break into pieces. Must be stored in a refrigerator – take out when ready to eat.
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Homemade body scrub for soft skin – Natural skincare
Make your skin baby-soft and radiant with this pleasantly scented body scrub. You can easily make it yourself, using completely natural ingredients.
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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.
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Three antioxidant-rich recipes with blueberries and matcha
A wonderful smoothie filled with all the colors of the rainbow straight from nature’s pantry. 4 dl almond or oat milk2 dl blueberries1 avocado1 bag baby spinach (about 70-100 g)1 tsp AFA algae1 tsp Pink Pataya powder Blend all ingredients in a high-speed blender. Serve immediately and enjoy! Warming Nordic Berry Drink 2 dl hot prepared chaga tea0.5 dl oat milk1 tbsp Nordic Berries1 tsp raw honey Mix all ingredients and enjoy a refreshing and nourishing drink – perfect for breakfast or a snack when it’s cold outside. Delicious Matcha/Cacao Balls 0.5 dl soft pitted dates0.5 dl dried figs1 dl activated almonds0.5 dl cocoa powder1 tbsp matcha powder1 tsp ginger powder or fresh grated ginger1 tsp vanilla powder Mix all ingredients in a food processor.Roll into balls and then roll the balls in matcha powder or cocoa powder (a matter of taste which you choose).Enjoy immediately or store in the fridge for up to 1 week.
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Rahima's favorite juice and simple recipes for juice leftovers
Of course, you can make juice from any vegetables, herbs, fruits, or berries you like. In the beginning, it can be helpful to have a few simple basic recipes to start from. It’s easy to underestimate the benefits of simple juices with only one ingredient. In recent years, for example, pure celery juice has become very popular after the author Anthony Williams gained many followers; but pure cucumber juice or pure watermelon juice are also very beneficial and hydrating for the whole body. In these two, you can try adding a little mint if you want to enhance the flavor and effect somewhat. Here is a simple recipe for our favorite juice blend that you can use as a starting point for your own experiments. We call it Rahima’s Favorite because it is just… well, Rahima’s favorite. Rahima’s Favorite Juice: 1 green apple1/2 cucumber2 celery stalks1/2 lemon or 1/4 lime1-2 cm ginger Juice all the ingredients in a slow juicer or cold press juicer and drink immediately for the greatest enjoyment. We like to pour our juice into nice wine glasses because we think this is the world’s most luxurious drink. Burgers from Juice Pulp: When you make juice, you often end up with a lot of leftover pulp from your ingredients. Throwing this away is not only a waste of resources but also means you miss out on all the good things you can make with it. Here we explain how you can make a really tasty vegan burger. Ingredients:4 dl leftover vegetable juice pulp (vegetable fibers)1/2 dl chia seeds1 tbsp olive oil1 pressed garlic clove1-2 tsp any herb spice (e.g., oregano, thyme, rosemary)1 tsp paprika powderSalt and pepper to taste Dry blend the chia seeds or crush them in a mortar to a coarse “flour.”Mix all ingredients in a bowl and make sure to work in the “chia flour” thoroughly until you get a firm “dough.”If needed, add a couple of tablespoons of water if you feel it’s too dry (this depends a bit on your juicer and which vegetables you used).Shape the dough into 3-4 flat burgers and dry in a dehydrator at 40°C for 3-4 hours.Serve immediately or at least the same day. Best when warm straight from the “oven.”* *If you don’t have a dehydrator, it’s of course fine to fry or bake the burgers gently in the oven. Just as tasty this way, although no longer completely raw. Activated Nuts – So Easy! How to activate nuts: Soak any nuts or seeds in water overnight. Then dry them in a dehydrator at 40°C for 4-6 hours (or until completely dry). You can also dry them in a regular oven at the lowest temperature with the door slightly open… Dried nuts can be stored at room temperature for up to 4 weeks in a jar. They are delicious to eat as snacks, on salads, in smoothies, or in dressings. We offer several types of organic nuts.
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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.
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Homemade cheese popcorn with nutritional yeast – simple & tasty
What is your favorite snack for cozy weekends?We love this popcorn recipe!You will need: – Popcorn corn (organic, of course!)– Coconut oil– Nutritional yeast Instructions: Pop the popcorn in a pot with coconut oil at the bottom. When they have finished popping, mix in a little more coconut oil, a couple of tablespoons of nutritional yeast, and sea salt to taste. Stir in the pot so the yeast and coconut oil can melt properly and blend with the popcorn. Enjoy a slightly healthier, and much tastier, snack!
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