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Over the past while I’ve noticed more and more people seem to be interested in the health benefits of oil pulling and I found myself becoming a little bit fascinated by it. While the idea of devoting 20 mins first thing in the morning seemed a daunting task (how on earth could I be expected to keep my mouth shut for that length of time in a fully conscious state???) However I bit the bullet as they say and decided to give it a go.

Here’s the history behind it – Oil pulling is an ancient Ayurvedic technique which involves swishing a tablespoon of oil (my oil of choice being organic extra virgin coconut oil as it has the added benefit of lauric acid a well-known antimicrobial agent ) around your mouth on an empty stomach for around 20 minutes then spitting it out (don’t swallow!). This action draws out toxins thus improving your overall health but primarily your oral health.

Nearly 7 weeks into it I can’t swear that I have done this every morning but I can honestly say that I manage to fit it in probably 5 out of the 7 mornings before the hubby and kiddies surface (not so bad eh). In this short space of time I can confidently say that I have without a doubt noticed a positive difference firstly my teeth are certainly not as sensitive as they previously were, Id like to think they are also a little whiter than before I started oil pulling but overall my mouth feels so much healthier and cleaner.

Other benefits of oil pulling include

• Improvement in sinus issues
• Skin clearing
• Overall detox

Honestly I would recommend everyone give it a go and even if you can only manage to fit it in a couple of mornings a week it’s certainly better than no mornings a week. Iv no doubt that you will also experience the positive benefits of this ancient technique. This is one healthy hobby which I am definitely going to keep up.

Eimear xx

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We had a bit of a banter the other day about our top three back to school must haves and after a fair bit of oh this needs to be on the list and oh no that needs to be on the list we finally agreed on three.

Top of the list would be a good quality Probiotic such as Viridians Children’s Sybiotic, Bio-Kults Infantis or the Udos Infants or Children’s blend. There are so many benefits to using probiotics but first and foremost they are super important to the healthy functioning of your little ones immune system and so back to school time is an ideal time to begin including probiotics. Probiotics have also proven beneficial in the treatment and prevention of allergies and can also help with skin conditions such as eczema.

Next up is Almond Butter (or any nut butter of your choice). Almond Butter is really versatile and nutritionally rich being high in protein which will keep little bellies fuller for longer, whilst also providing healthy fats, vitamin E, potassium, magnesium, iron and calcium. Add some to a breakfast smoothie, spread on toast with sliced banana for a fantastic energy boosting breakfast toast, add to homemade energy balls or just spread between two slices of apple for the ultimate apple sandwich – any way you like it’s delicious and healthy.

Third on our list has to be Theraneem’s Shampoo and Body wash. Neem has long been used as a preventative and treatment for the dreaded head lice (we hate to mention them). However regular use of this shampoo and body wash (twice a week) can be a really effective deterrrant while also being a great product for sensitive scalps.

So there you have our top 3 must haves for any home with school going kids and all that’s left to say is here’s to a great
school going year!!

Sinead and Eimear xx

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Hi all,

It will be back to school time soon and while some of you may breathe a sigh of relief at the return to routine others will undoubtedly start fretting over ‘how in god’s name to pack for that school lunch that must be prepared five days a week’. Obviously most of us want to give something that is healthy and nutritious as we all love our children, but this is not always as easy as it seems. As a parent myself and haven spoken with quite a few on this topic, I am well aware of the challenges facing parents who want their kids to eat healthy. On the one hand you want to pack something that will be eaten and not be returned to you that evening.

While on the other hand you have the little chreubs in Jane/Johnny’s class who tell your little cherub that the tuna sandwich they are about to eat is horrible/smelly/disgusting. Be under no illusions you will be warned never to pack such an item again. Research clearly shows that eating a healthy breakfast and lunch will result in your child having more energy and better concentration levels throughout the day. Bearing this in mind I will be trying out different recipes and ideas over the coming months and anything that is a success (by success, I mean, eaten by children) I will be posting. I’ll be trying out a recipe with quinoa this weekend so will let you know how that goes. Feel free to post your own successful recipes and ideas and I’m sure between us all we can surely fill their little lunchboxes for the year ahead with healthy, nutritious food. Happy Healthy Kids = Happy Healthy Parents.

Sinead xx

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The Brilliance of Baking Soda:

More traditionally used for baking, read on and find out it’s many other uses and why baking soda is one of the least expensive home remedies to keep to hand.

1. Natural deodorant:

If you want to avoid the parabens and aluminium found in many deodorants and antiperspirants, try a pinch of baking soda mixed with water instead. This makes a simple yet effective natural deodorant. You could also simply sprinkle baking soda under your arms.

2. Insect Bites:

Mix baking soda and water and apply to insect bites to relieve itching. This can also be used on an itchy rash. Baking Soda helps to relieve minor skin irritation and itching by neutralising irritants on the skins surface.

3. Heartburn, Indigestion and Ulcer Pain: 

While not a long term solution baking soda will neutralise stomach acid, helping to relieve heartburn, indigestion and even ulcer pain.

4. Hand cleanser: 

Mix 3 parts baking soda with one part water to make a natural hand cleanser that will scrub away dirt and neutralise odours.

5. Sunburn Remedy:

While it may not seem likely you will have much use for this one right now, it’s still a good one to know. If you add ½ cup of baking soda to a lukewarm bath and soak in it, you will get natural relief. Alternatively you can also mix the baking soda with water to make a cold compress and apply it directly to the area.

6. Tooth Paste:

Baking soda will help to remove plaque and clean and deodorise your teeth due to its slight abrasive action. It will also kill bacteria which contribute to tooth decay. To make a great paste mix six parts baking soda to one part sea salt. 

7.Teeth Whitener:

To whiten your teeth naturally, crush one ripe strawberry and mix ½ teaspoon of baking soda. Spread the mix on your teeth and leave for five minutes. Then brush and rinse. Do this no more than once a week.

Sinead xx

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Are you one of many whom due to various reasons often feel strung out, tense, nervous and irritable. If you can answer yes to this then Viridian’s L-Theanine and Lemon Balm may just be your saving grace. Several studies have shown that L-Theanine which occurs naturally in green tea and Lemon Balm a herb which many of you may have growing in your garden can rapidly reduce the effects of stress and appear to do this by calming down your mind and nervous system.

Along with stress relieving properties this powerhouse of ingredients have been shown to help those suffering with sleep difficulties, poor concentration and brain fog. We’re in no doubt if you try this product you will be adding it to your list of favourites today.

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Optima Organic Raw Virgin Coconut Oil

Optima Organic Raw Virgin Coconut Oil is one of the most popular coconut oils currently available. Only the finest organic coconuts are carefully selected to ensure the purest oil possible. This oil is produced without the use of any chemicals or artificial additives. The raw ingredients are only cold-pressed. This method ensures that the taste, smell and natural health properties of the coconut are retained after processing.

Revive Active

Revive Active is the new, improved version of Revive Q10+ and boasts cardiovascular, energy boosting and anti-ageing benefits. It has been formulated by a panel of specialist doctors and scientists. It combines a range of key nutrients including 100mg of CoQ10 and L-Arginine into one convenient sachet. Each Revive Active sachet contains a water soluble powder supplement that when diluted creates a great tasting orange flavoured drink with even greater benefits. More specifically, these benefits include Anti-Ageing, Increased Energy and Vitality, Improved Blood Circulation and the lowering of cholesterol. This new improved version of the Revive Active supplement now contains selenium and Pomegranate extract as well as even more of the important Vitamin D3. It now also contains Vitamin E in natural form, which is easier to absorb.

Kinvara Skincare Absolute Cleansing Oil

Kinvara Skincare Absolute Cleansing Oil is natural skincare cleanser that contains a blend of 85% organic botanics and therapeutic essential oils. It aims to restore balance to the skin and allow thoroughly cleansing of the skin without stripping or stimulating your skin's own protective oils. It is excellent at gently but effectively removing stubborn make-up, especially mascara. Suitable for all skin types.

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The long stretch in the evenings reminds most of us that spring has arrived and that summer is only just around the corner. But for a significant number of people these long evenings signal that allergy season is just a sniff away. And so the torment of congestion, a runny nose, itchy eyes and sneezing begins yet again almost as though it is a rite of spring. Why does this happen to some and not to others? Well the simple answer is that when plants pollinate they send pollen into the air some people’s immune systems respond by producing antibodies that attach to cells in the nose, eyes and lungs which release histamine the chemical which causes the allergy symptoms.

There are however some very effective and natural allergy treatments which have little or no side effects contrary to many of the anti-histamine drugs which are generally available.

Quercetin

This natural plant derived bioflavonoid is a natural antioxidant and helps prevent the body’s cells from producing histamine. Quercetin is naturally found in onions, apples, tomatoes, broccoli and wine. However allergy sufferers are much more likely to benefit from supplementation in order to build up enough of this compound to prevent attacks. The recommended dosage would be 1000mg per day and treatment should probably begin at least 6 weeks before allergy season.

Nettle Complex

You could also try a supplement with a combination of natural ingredients. Here I would definitely recommend Terra Nova’s Quercetin Nettle Complex which contains a combination of nature’s best anti-inflammatories, Quercetin, Turmeric and Nettle with additional Elderflower, Vitamin C and Bromelain. This is an intensely synergistic combination of ingredients which provides a completely natural approach to seasonal allergies.

Local Honey

By consuming local honey you could say you are gradually vaccinating the body against allergens. Local honey contains a variety of the same pollen spores that give allergy sufferers so much trouble and the idea is that by eating the local honey the body will become accustomed to their presence and so decrease the chance of an immune system response which will release histamine. Again this treatment gives best results if commenced 6 wks before the onset of allergy season.

Salt Pipe

The salt in the salt pipe helps to calm and cleanse the cells of the respiratory system helping to flush away the impurities from the surface of the cells. The pipe is very simple to use, simply place it between your lips and inhale deeply into your lungs. The recommended use is for 15-25 mins a day and this can offer great relief from allergy symptoms.

So as you can see that even though allergies are sure to put in an appearance year after year there are several natural remedies available which will help keep those uncomfortable symptoms at bay.

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Cleaning your home the natural way

Hi there, I’m sure that by this stage most of us are well aware that most of the surfaces in our homes can very easily be cleaned with kitchen cupboard staples such as vinegar and essential oils. While the essential oils add a pleasant fragrance they also contain antimicrobial properties which make them perfect for killing the various germs which cause colds, flus and other infections. These natural cleaners are not only non-toxic and inexpensive but they are also very easy to make while being very good at their job of removing dirt, grease and grime. Below you will find the products necessary and the instructions on how to make a vinegar glass cleaner perfect for streak free windows and a naturally scented antimicrobial hand wash.

Vinegar Glass Cleaner

• 170ml water
• 90ml distilled white vinegar
• 2 drops lemon essential oil

Mix the ingredients in a spray bottle and shake well. Spray onto surface and wipe clean with a lint free cloth. The white vinegar and water make an inexpensive yet effective window and glass cleaner while the lemon essential oil acts as an antimicrobial agent and provides a pleasant zingy fragrance. Natural cleaning at its best!

Antiseptic Hand Wash

• 250ml natural hand and body soap (I like to use Dr Bronner’s Baby Castile liquid soap)
• 30 drops Lavender essential oil
• 20 drops Eucalyptus essential oil
• 10 drops Lemon essential oil

Combine the ingredients together in a soap dispenser and mix well. The wonderful combination of essential oils offers antimicrobial properties and a very pleasant fragrance.
So you see easy peasy and definitely worth a try. Keep checking in for more DIY natural cleaning recipes.

Eimear xx

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I must first confess to being a product junkie, I love nothing more than trying out the newest natural skin care product to come into the store (my bathroom cabinet can vouch for that) but I also delight in dabbling in a little do it yourself a home beauty product production.  Interestingly enough whenever I set the time aside to make these special beauty treatments I find it extremely rewarding and most definitely a time to relax and unwind. I simple cannot stress how easy the following recipe is to make and how beneficial it is to your skin.

Aromatherapy Eye Oil

1. 5 drops Chamomile essential oil
2. 5 drops Rose essential oil
3. 30 ml Jojoba oil

Mix the ingredients and store in a small glass bottle with a dropper. Cleanse your face thoroughly and apply a couple of drops around the eyes with you ring finger and gently tap into the skin. The Chamomile essential oil is fantastic for soothing and relaxing tired eyes whilst also offering anti-inflammatory properties which helps greatly with puffy eyes. The Rose essential oil acts as a wonderful moisturiser and so is useful on dry irritated and sensitive skin. Rose essential oil supports the regeneration of new skin cells and so is a wonderful addition to any facial treatment.
I really hope you have enjoyed reading this and that I have tempted you to delve into a little DIY yourself you certainly won’t regret it. Any comments or other tips gratefully accepted.

Eimear xx

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Over the last while it seems that everywhere I turn a new and more potent super food had popped up on my radar. But what exactly makes Super foods so super ? And what credentials must a food possess in order to wear the coveted crown ‘Super food’.
Super foods are a specific category of foods found in nature which can be described as nutrient powerhouses. Most Super foods are a mixture of the below factors.

: Rich in vitamins and minerals.
: Rich in omega 3 fatty acids.
: High in fibre.
: Rich in phytochemicals which may potentially prevent against illness and disease.
: Low in saturated fats, Trans fats, and refined sugars.
: Low in calories.

So now that we have some idea what a definition of what exactly a Super food is lets have a look at some examples.

Acai
This small purple berry is native to South America and has long been touted as a weight loss and anti-aging aid. Acai has high levels of antioxidants (it contains twice as many as blueberries) which can help our bodies fight disease and cancer. Antioxidants are a vital part of our diets as they prevent and slow down oxidative damage to our bodies. Acai is typically sold in tablets, capsules and powder form and so can be easily included in our diets.

Goji Berries
These delicious orange-red berries are absolutely packed full of vitamin C and contain high levels of carotenoids which automatically associates them with visual ailments. They are also high in fibre, iron, calcium, zinc and selenium which leaves us in no doubt as to their nutritional capabilities. They are generally available in dried form making them very convenient to eat as a snack or add them to smoothies or your breakfast porridge. 

Chia Seeds
These tiny super food seeds are a fantastic source of omega 3 fatty acids and fibre, while also containing high levels of protein, calcium, manganese and phosphorus. Interestingly also chia seeds contain tryptophan an amino acid which helps to regulate appetite, sleep and improve mood. Chia is also rich in antioxidants which protect the omega 3 fatty acids from oxidation. Chia seeds also contain anti-inflammatory properties and can help lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels and provide relief from digestive issues. They can be eaten whole or milled while soaked seeds have a gelatinous texture which can be included in all sorts of baked goods e.g. breads and cakes or simply added to porridge or smoothies.

Maca
This root vegetable hails from Peru and is a great source of calcium, iron and magnesium while also being rich in antioxidants and B vitamins. Maca is a great adaptogen working with your body when it is stressed to help keep you calm. In this respect Maca can be very beneficial to our bodies as a stressed body leads to a compromised immue system which in turn leads to a whole lot more including poor quality of sleep and increased fat around the middle. Maca is also being touted as a miracle food for fertility and libido by helping to balance hormones and increase libido. It can be useful for relieving menstrual and menopausal symptoms such as cramping, hot flushes, anxiety and depression. Maca is fantastic for increasing energy levels and stamina making it a very useful super food for sports people.
Maca is generally consumed in powder or capsule form and is a great addition to smoothies, salads and cooked foods (not too hot in order to ensure it doesn’t lose it health benefits). A definite must have in any kitchen.

A combination of organic green super foods.
While there are lots on the market my particular favourite is Synergy Natural 100% Organic Super greens Powder which offers a fantastic blend of natures most nutrient dense green super foods spirulina, chlorella, barley Grass and Wheat Grass. It provides me with a broad spectrum of nutrients which are highly absorbable by the body. Spirulina a microscopic fresh water plant is the most nutritious whole food known to man. Chlorella another microscopic fresh water plant contains more chlorophyll than any other plant and so is very useful for cleansing and detoxing the body. Barley Grass and Wheat grass are also high in chlorophyll and fibre whilst also containing a vast range of other important nutrients. These highly alkalising green vegetables can help keep our bodies in balance and counter the over acidity of many processed foods and prove a simple and convenient way of contributing towards our recommended 5 a day. Whilst it is also available in tablet and capsule form the powder can easily be added to juice or smoothies.

The list of Super foods goes on and on and I could go on and on but I won’t. Instead I’ll leave you with the above list which are my top 5 Super foods. Please feel free to leave feed back and let us know what your top 5 are or if you feel that there is any particular one which deserves a special mention.

Eimear xx

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I was recently introduced to these fascinating little fruits from the fruit nut tree which are a 100% natural alternative to laundry liquids and powders perfect for people with sensitive skin issues such as eczema, psoriasis or dermatitis. They are very effective whilst being very gentle and leave laundry completely fresh and clean. These wonderful little berries are native to India and Nepal and contain saponin a natural detergent and can be used to clean not only your clothes but vegetables, kitchens as a shampoo and so much more.

As a laundry detergent which at present is all I have used them for all you have to do is pop your soap nuts in an unbleached cotton bag or a sock (the number of shells you use depends on the size of your laundry load and whether it is a hot/cold wash) throw them into your washing machine and let them work their magic. 

If you are washing with cold water, then just soak them in hot water for a few minutes before putting both the water and bagged nuts into your wash. Soap nuts have natural hypoallergenic, antibacterial and antifungal properties making them perfect for washing baby clothes. The smell of your freshly laundered clothes is completely natural but if you feel the need for scent all you have to do is put a few drops of your chosen essential oil on the soap nut bag and hey presto you will have lightly scented freshly laundered clothes.

And just to add to add to their wonder they can be reused for more than one wash (you will get more washes if using cold water) making them possibly the cheapest washing detergent on the market. Definitely worth a try and I firmly believe that once you’ve tried them you will realise that soap nuts work, and work well, well at least that’s my opinion.
Eimear xx