Switch to Organic Cotton Tampons-Now!

 

Did you know the average woman will use over 11,000 tampons in her lifetime?  That is 11,000 plus exposures to whatever chemicals or toxins are in the tampon material.  That is not counting sanitary napkins or liners.

A few months ago I sent out a round of Industry Action Letters to make sure companies knew I had switched to safer, chemical free alternatives.  I received a letter  back refuting my points about rayon blend tampons.:

The cotton and rayon purification process is a chlorine-free process	Even non-chlorine bleaching methods are done with chemicals
Our tampons are made of materials that have been safely used in feminine care products for many years	This companies current pads contain plastics, rayons, and petrochemical additives for absorption

Every year, we find out companies put chemicals in products formerly overlooked as “safe” and then later when independent research finds them unsafe, they are recalled.  For example, when a popular baby shampoo was found to have preservatives in them that turned into formaldehyde over time.

“Formaldehyde, which last year was identified by government scientists as a carcinogen, is released over time by common preservatives like quaternium-15 and DMDM hydantoin, which do appear on labels. And 1,4 dioxane, which has been linked to cancer in animal studies, is created during a process commonly used to make other ingredients gentler on the skin.” [9]

I’ve digressed…this letter from received did not convince me their products are safe. They may state they do not use chlorine, but what about pesticides and herbicides used in growing the non-organic cotton plants?

Tampons are considered Class II medical devices and are not required to disclose their ingredients. This doesn’t make any sense; these products are used by women monthly- shouldn’t the list of what they are composed of be and openly stated on the packaging?

 

 

Why not just use organic cotton to make tampons and be done with it? Why are companies so averse to using organic cotton? The bottom line: money and profits.

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Rayon is Used in Most Mainstream Tampons

Rayon started being used in tampons due to it’s cheap production costs, but the way rayon is produced involves chemicals- Yes Chemicals!

Rayon is:

“Rayon is a manufactured regenerated cellulose fiber. It is made from purified cellulose, primarily from wood pulp, which is chemically converted into a soluble compound. It is then dissolved and forced through a spinneret to produce filaments which are chemically solidified, resulting in synthetic fibers…” [10]

Organic cotton is costlier and the company’s products cost more, which in a competitive environment, many will choose cost over safety (unfortunately).

I gladly will pay more for organic cotton tampons ; this is my feminine health after all.

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Regular Cotton Vs. Organic Cotton

Cotton covers 2.5% of the world’s cultivated land yet uses 16% of the world’s insecticides, more than any other single major crop. Other environmental consequences of the elevated use of chemicals in the non-organic cotton growing methods consist of:

• High levels of agrochemicals are used in the production of non-organic, conventional cotton.

 

• Cotton production uses more chemicals per unit area than any other crop and accounts in total for 10-16% of the world’s pesticides (including herbicides, insecticides, and defoliants chemicals used in the processing of cotton pollute the air and surface waters.

• Residual chemicals may irritate consumers’ skin.
• Decreased biodiversity and shifting equilibrium of ecosystems due to the use of pesticides.       [1]

Organic Cotton is different primarily as it’s not treated with chemicals.

“Farmers have been growing cotton without harmful chemicals for years. Their yield is high, and the quality of the cotton they grow is equal to or better than conventionally grown cotton. Their methods support biodiversity and healthy ecosystems, improve the quality of soil and often use less water. Organic farming is more time consuming, requires more knowledge and skill, and, for now, costs more. But it’s worth it.” [8]

This graphic from Organicfacts.net explains  why organic cotton is so much better: Production does not involve chemicals, better quality, reduces potential for pollution by pesticides, natural fiber, and environmentally friendly farming practices.

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 What Else is in a Tampon or Sanitary Napkin?

Not only the chemicals are a factor, but the synthetic plastic applicators take longer to biodegrade than cardboard applicators. In fact, even cardboard applicators can be treated with chemicals or a “plastic finish” to give them a smoother feel, so we have to be careful there also.

Also, artificial fragrances should not be used in a woman’s vagina. The lining of the internal vagina wall is highly permeable, even more so than our skin.  Aside from pesticides, traces of dioxin, and GMOs, if you’re using scented tampons, be aware that such products may contain any of the nearly 3,000 fragrance chemicals in use. [5]

Tampons are made of cotton, rayon, polyester, polyethylene, polypropylene, and fiber finishes. Aside from the cotton and fiber finishes, these materials are not bio-degradable. Organic cotton tampons are biodegradable, but must be composted to ensure they break down in a reasonable amount of time. [6]

The letter also stated that “independent” research study showed no pesticides. It mentioned that research by a certain government agency deems their product safe. These agencies need to overhaul the  regulations in our cosmetic industry. So many products on the market simply are not safe.

Yes, most cosmetics in this country are on the market as “safe” and our government agencies allow it. For now… read the end of this article for how that may change!

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Our regulators allow over 3,000 toxic chemicals to be used in the US makeup industry. Did you know the EU bans more than 1,300 chemicals and the US only bans 8 and restricts 3? WOW.

Even “non-chlorine” bleaching methods, in my opinion, are unsafe.

“A common method used in bleaching rayon, elemental chlorine-free bleaching, can still pose a dioxin risk because of the use of chlorine dioxide (the bleaching agent). In theory, these elemental chlorine-free processes can generate dioxins at very low levels, even though the process is considered “dioxin free.”  

According to the EPA, dioxin exposure causes cancer in lab animals and poses a high risk for humans as well. The agency also finds it to be a risk for damaged immune systems, reduced fertility, an increased risk of pelvic inflammatory disease, and endometriosis.”  [7]

I’m not trying to slander this company and it was actually very nice that someone  took the time to respond to my letter. Most of their big competitors use the same ingredients in their products, but I would like to see them take more responsibility for what is in their products and give consumers   what they want- safer alternatives.

A trace chemical is still a chemical and in a delicate area it’s more dangerous with repeat exposure.

The average woman ends up with up to 5 lbs. of chemicals in her body per year. Per year! [2] Of course, this includes our makeups, soaps, lotions, tampons, etc…

Many of today’s feminine hygiene products are made primarily from rayon, viscose, and cellulose wood fluff pulp… not cotton — let alone organic cotton. Rayon and viscose present a potential danger in part because of their highly absorbent fibers. [5]

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Safe Alternatives- Organic Cotton Tampons and Cups

I  love Natracare organic cotton tampons and sanitary products (their pads are so soft). They are a company I trust.  Mercola is also producing organic cotton products and so does Seventh Generation brand and Honest Company.

Of course, there are even greener alternatives, like silicon reusable menstrual cups. I did try a cup and I simply could not get enough privacy (a 4 year old that is always following me into the bathroom) to master the skill of it.

I do joke around with my husband (we are big The Walking Dead fans) if the zombie apocalypse happens and we have to go survive in the wild- I’m grabbing that Diva cup!

As consumers, we must be wary of what we put in or on our bodies. I’ll be teaching my daughter to use safer products. Hopefully by then some of these companies will be forced to change their product formulations.

I’ll stick with the progressive companies that did what is right from the start.

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Change on the Horizon

The Personal Care Product Safety Act, S-1014, is a bipartisan bill that is backed by the Environment Working Group: www.ewg.org.   Although certain companies I don’t trust (Ahem, companies who previously added formaldehyde releasers in baby care products) are also supporters, this is still a pivotal step in regulating the US Cosmetic industry.

The FDA must review the safety of at least five cosmetic ingredients each year, and it may establish conditions for safe use of an ingredient, including a limit on the amount of the ingredient or a requirement for a warning label. A cosmetic cannot be sold if it contains an ingredient that is not safe, not safe under the recommended conditions of use, or not safe in the amount present in the cosmetic. [3]

There is an excellent chart that shows you a breakdown of current law vs. proposed laws under this act.

Click here to view it from CosmeticsandtheLaw.com

The first 5 chemicals up for review in 2016 would be the following:

1. Diazolidinyl urea (a formaldehyde used as a preservative in a wide range of products including deodorant, shampoo, conditioner, bubble bath and lotion)
2. Lead acetate (used as a color additive in hair dyes)
3. Methylene glycol/formaldehyde, which is used in hair treatments
4. Propyl paraben, which is used as a preservative in a wide range of products including shampoo, conditioner and lotion
5. Quaternium-15, which is used as a preservative in a wide range of products including shampoo, shaving cream, skin creams and cleansers [4]

Although we have a long way to go, consumers like you and a strong social media activism can help propagate the message that we will not use toxic products.

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What Can I Do?

You can write an Activism Letter or sign online petitions. Support the labeling of personal hygiene products. Switch brands NOW!

If organic cotton tampon sales went up significantly I guaranteed big companies would consider a shift from rayon blends or offer an organic line as an option.

I have to drive to a different town to get my organic products, convenience would be nice, or even if my local grocer would start carrying these smaller company brands.

The potential for them to affect our health and wellness outweighs extra costs or the extra measures we have to take to buy these safe alternatives. I may drive to a different town to buy Natracare products, but they are available online.  Check out the Genbumom Amazon link for safe alternatives.

 Will you be making a switch to organic cotton feminine hygiene products?

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Sources:

1. Organic Cotton from Wikepedia https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Organic_cotton
2. Stuff You Should Know Podcast: “How Makeup Works” Broadcasted March 17, 2016.   www.howstuffworks.com
3. https://www.congress.gov/bill/114th-congress/senate-bill/1014
4. April 21, 2015.  Cosmetics and the Law website:  www.cosmeticsandthelaw.com
5. Dr. Mercola. May 13, 2015.  Conventional Tampons are toxic and not sustainable.  http://articles.mercola.com/sites/articles/archive/2015/05/13/tampons.aspx
6. Tampon from Wikepedia https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tampon
7. Donsky, Andrea. Rayon: What you need to know about this fiber and your health.  Accessed May 4, 2016 www.naturallysavvy.com
8. Patagonia Clothing website. Accessed April 25, 2016.  http://www.patagonia.com/us/patagonia.go?assetid=2077
9. Johnson, Katie. August 5, 2012.  Johnson and Johnson to remove Formaldehyde from Their Products.  www.nytimes.com
10. Rayon from Wikepedia https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rayon

Industry Action Letter

What does this Vonnegut quote mean to you? What has disappeared?  Simplicity and transparency.  As educated consumers, we must command respect and not be misled. Products and foods go into our bodies, into our homes, on the fabrics we put on our children’s skin, and in the air we breath.

Change is not overwhelming if you pivot it accordingly and incorporate it into your lifestyle. If moderation is important to you, think of small changes you can do today. One is writing an industry action letter to a company whose products you do not feel are safe.

You can involve your children. They can investigate the ingredients in the products in your home and sign the letter. Post pictures of what your family is doing to make an impact on social media. Start a letter writing campaign with families you know.

Please feel free to copy and paste this letter verbiage and make it your own.  Share this page or this concept with friends on social media and start some action today!

I wanted to provide you with the words… now you can help make changes happen.  Go out with courage into the world and act!

Sometimes we have to be against something to be for something.

It only takes about 15 minutes to type and send letters to companies whose ingredients you do not want in your home. Don’t throw out the products you no longer will use.  Return them to the manufacturer if you feel it’s worth the cost of shipping them back. Perhaps you will receive a refund.

Start buying organic, fair traded, locally made, cruelty-free, non-toxic and non-GMO products. Put your consumer dollars towards change.

Ava makeup and Young Living diffusers.

Gmo free and organic.

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Your Full Address

January 15, 2016

• Full title and name
• Company or organization name
• Company Full address (use two or more lines, as needed)

Dear (last name)  (try to find a CEO or President’s name) and if you cannot:

Dear Sir or Madam,

The purpose of this letter it to inform you that I will no longer be purchasing products from your company.  My family formerly used the following products (x,y,z). The reason I am no longer your customer is that you use the following chemical ingredients (or company practices-i.e. animal cruelty to test your products) in your products. (Pick and choose from below list)

• Aluminum- linked to nerve damage and brain disorders.
• DEA/TEA- potential carcinogen
• PEG/ceteareth/polyethylene-“Ethylene oxide (found in PEG-4, PEG-7, PEG4-dilaurate, and PEG 100) is highly toxic—even in small doses—and was used in World War I nerve gas.” [5]
• Triclosan & Triclocarban- endocrine disruptors; found in breast milk, cord blood, and in pregnant women. Triclosan is not necessary to be used in soaps to kill germs.“Recent research demonstrates that triclosan has effects on the thyroid, estrogen, and testosterone hormones in laboratory animals, including mammals” [4]
• Sodium Lauryl Sulfate- linked to skin irritation, endocrine disruption, eye and oral toxicity, hair loss, respiratory and congestive issues.
• Parabens (Methyl, propyl, ethyl, butyl)- rapidly absorbed by the skin; may show up in breast tissue and an endocrine disruptor.
• Propylene Gycol- known to cause dermititis, kidney and liver abnormalities in animal studies.
• Phthalates- “Studies have shown that chemicals called phthalates can trigger what’s known as “death-inducing signaling” in testicular cells…hormone changes, lower sperm count, less mobile sperm, birth defects in the male reproductive system, obesity, diabetes and thyroid irregularities.” [1]
• Non-stick cookware- Perfuluorinated Chemicals (PFCs and PFOA)- “Peer-reviewed research suggests that certain nonstick chemicals can contribute to cancer, birth defects, flu-like symptoms, elevated cholesterol, abnormal thyroid hormone levels, liver inflammation, weakened immunity, and other health problems.” [2]
• Artificial Coloring and/or Food Dyes, such as Yellow #5, Red and Blue- linked to behavioral disorders in children, cancer and allergic reactions. [6]
• ‘Fragrance’- a cocktail of who knows ? There is no regulation in the US what ‘fragrance’ may include.
• Retinyl palmitate and Oxybenzone- (sunscreens)- biochemical and cellular level changes, endocrine disruption, bioaccumulates, photoallergenic toxicant.
• Toluene and Dibutyl phthalate (DBP)- (found in nail polish)
• PEG/cetearetj/polyethylene-(found in acne products)
• BHA, Boric acid, and Fragrance (found in diaper cream)
• DMDM hydantoin-(found in baby wipes)- derivatives of formaldyde and linked to  allergies, fatigue, depression, weakened immune systems. [7]
• Alpha and beta hydroxy acids (lactic acid and glycolic acid)
  • “FDAsponsored studies find UV-caused skin damage doubles for users of products with alpha hydroxy acid.” (anti aging products)-[4]

Your company has a social and environmental obligation to protect its consumers, rather than harm their health and our fragile ecosystems. I feel that (company name) cannot meet the needs of public safety as long as it uses toxic ingredients/animal testing/lack of sustainable practices/non-organic ingredients in its products.

In the future, if (company name) decides to eliminate the use of harmful ingredients I may consider becoming a customer again. In the meantime, I am  a former customer.  I will be placing my trust and spending my money with companies that source for organic/non-toxic/sustainable/fairly traded/vegan ingredients.

Sincerely,

(Sign)

Your name 

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Final Thoughts from Genbumom

Did you Know?

“The rate of new childhood cancer cases, including leukemia, has steadily increased over the last 40 years.” [3]

Why is this occurring? Research across the board from 3rd party and university studies are pointing to environmental toxins such as pesticides, herbicides, mercury, and artificial hormones in our food and water sources, as well as our personal care (bath and beauty products), not to mention household cleaners (laundry soaps, toilet cleaners, fabric sprays, dish soaps, etc.)

Toxic ingredients

I used to put this on my body!  I use essential oils now for pure lavender benefits. This lavender body wash was a chemical cocktail absorbing into my skin. All you need is Castile soap, water, a little coconut oil and essential oils if you prefer fragrance for a body wash. So simple.

Source for new products that you feel safe to use. I make many household products using vinegar, Castile soaps, baking soda, and essential oils for cleaning.

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I purchase items like organic coconut oil and pure shea butter for moisturizing and use essential oils for their anti-aging properties. (My skin looks better than it did 5 years ago- so does my husbands).

Find companies you trust. I love Shea Moisture and Acure brand products for bath and skin care. I use Ava Anderson nontoxic for makeup.

I use Young Living Essential oils. I buy my bulk products (for cheap) and organic via Bulk Apothecary or Mountain Rose Herbs.

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Sources:

1. October 28, 2013. Environmental Working Group. Dirty Dozen Endocrine Disruptors. www.ewg.org
2. Isaac Eliaz, MD, MS, LAc.  April 17, 2012.  How Safe is your Cookware?  www.huffingtonpost.com
3.  Dellavalle, Kurt. September 20, 2105. Childhood Cancer: More Evidence Points to Chemical Exposure. www.ewg.org
4.  June 16, 2014. Triclosan containing antibacterial soaps neither safe nor effective. www.ewg.org
5.  October 2, 2013. What are PEG’s. www.truthinaging.com.
6.  Center for Science in the Public Interest. Food Dyes a Rainbow of Risks.  accessed January 14, 2016.
7.  Lipman, Frank. MD. What Chemicals should you Look Out For in your Personal Care Products? www.drfranklipman.com 

 

Natural Deodorant & Antiperspirant {That Works}

This has been a 6 month quest to find an all natural deodorant recipe that works for both me and my husband.  We dealt with the itchy armpit issue  (too much baking soda), one that turned out dark grey (I wear way too many delicates to stain my nice work clothing), and one that literally turned my armpits light brown. It took about 3 armpit detoxes to get the staining out.  I’m too girly for all of this fuss.

I was relieved to finally find a combo that works!

4 Ingredient Deodorant & Antiperspirant

• 1/2 cup melted organic coconut oil (solid state)
• 1/2 cup arrowroot powder
• 1 TBSP baking soda
• 10 drops Tea Tree essential oil and 10 drops Clary Sage essential oil

To me, the Tea Tree is key. It keeps smell at bay all day long.  Make sure you use therapeutic grade Tea Tree oil.  I prefer  Young Living. Do NOT use a cheap store bought fragrance oil! It may cause irritation and it won’t be effective for banishing the bacteria that leads to smells.

The Clary Sage pairs well with the Tea Tree and creates almost a baby powder like scent.  The Tea Tree would also pair well with Lavender.

Spruce, Vetiver, or Cedarwood would all work for a manlier scent.

The arrowroot powder makes this glide on smoothly and absorbs wetness. (In a pinch it makes a great dry shampoo too). The baking soda eliminates odor, but I use it sparingly to avoid irritation.

Coconut oil also contains healing and antimicrobial/anti-fungal properties.

Simple to make: Heat coconut oil (I start with solid coconut oil) in microwave in a glass container for 20 second intervals until melted. Quickly stir in arrowroot and baking soda. You can add more arrowroot a tsp. at a time as desired to get the consistency you want.  Add 10 drops each of both essential oils.

Pour or scoop into a plastic deodorant tube, a tin, or a glass jar. I refrigerate mine for a half hour until it solidifies again and then remove and store in the bathroom. I personally don’t mind applying this with my fingers and I carry a tin with me for a touch up halfway through work.  My husband prefers the stick application.

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Why make your own deodorant?

First of all, non-toxic deodorants are expensive. There are some great ones out there, but the cost is significantly higher  for nontoxic deodorant/antiperspirant combos, especially if you have to pay for shipping. I found Schmidt’s deodorant to be effective but the consistency (to me) was not smooth enough. I have heard Ava Anderson Non toxic has this amazing chocolate mint scented nontoxic deodorant that works well.

I personally like to save money and this only takes me about 5 minutes to make and we have enough to last 2 weeks.

I have a friend that refers to some natural deodorant (only deodorants) as “slimey” and I agree. I also don’t like those version either. In a pinch, yes, but for everyday use not so much.

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Why natural deodorants? What is wrong with the mainstream brands?

You are playing Russian Roulette with fragrance. The FDA does not require companies to disclose how the ‘fragrance’ is derived, namely the fragrance could actually be a cocktail of chemicals to mimic a natural smell.  I like to source for scholarly resources and found a relatively easy to understand one here about chemicals in our products.

“Many of these products may be sources of chemicals that have a diverse spectrum of health effects, including endocrine disruption and associations with asthma. Endocrine-disrupting compounds (EDCs) are chemicals that can alter hormonal signaling and have potential effects on developing reproductive and nervous systems, metabolism, and cancer (Colborn et al. 1993). ” [1]

From someone that has battled a grapefruit sized ovarian tumor and removal, the inflammatory disease of endometriosis, and precancerous cell removal I will go to persistent means to avoid hormonal disruption in my products.

“Recent research from EWG and the Campaign for Safe Cosmetics found an average of 14 chemicals in 17 name brand fragrance products, none of them listed on the label. Fragrances can contain hormone disruptors and are among the top 5 allergens in the world. Our advice? Buy fragrance free wherever possible.”    … “Everyone should avoid products with “fragrance” indicating a chemical mixture that may contain phthalates.” [2]

Also, after using natural deodorants I found a stick of old deodorant in my desk at work one day. I literally had respiratory side effects when I opened it to sniff it on a whim. What ingredients did this mainstream  deodorant list?

• BHT 

One or more in vitro tests on mammalian cells show positive mutation results
One or more animal studies show tumor formation at high doses [2]

• Cyclopentasiloxane  HIGH concerns: Persistence and bioaccumulation; Persistent, bioaccumulative in wildlife,  One or more animal studies show tumor formation at moderate doses, One or more animal studies show endocrine disruption at moderate doses

There were more scary chemicals listed but I’m not wasting my time talking about this product anymore!

I’ve heard many debates about aluminum- so many that I don’t wish to address it at this time, but if car parts can be made from it, I’m out. I don’t want that on my skin; hence, in my bloodstream and in my body organs.

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What if I buy Fragrance Free?

That’s great! However, your formulation probably also contains parabens, phlalates, aluminum, dimethicone, and the list goes on. These are chemical agents added to our consumer products for a “smooth” finish and so they “glide” on well or create a barrier on our skin to block odor.  They also block sweat which is trapping in the harmful chemicals.

Go to this site from the Environmental Working Group’s Skin Deep Database and look up your product ingredients.  Please, especially if your teenagers are using these products, look up these ingredients. Their bodies are still developing-hormone and endocrine disruption is harmful to their reproductive future as well as their metabolism.

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Recommended Product Links:

5 Empty Deodorant Containers White 2.5oz- with “I Made It At Home for You” By Oils4Health  (5 count)

6 ct. Deodorant Twist-up Empty Containers (Natural) – for lotion bar, heel balm etc. (2 oz.)” 6 ct. Deodorant Twist-up Empty Containers (Natural) (2 oz.)a>

Bob’s Red Mill Arrowroot Starch Flour, 16 oz>Bob’s Red Mill Arrowroot Starch Flour, 16 oz

You can also find arrowroot powder at most major grocery stores. I found mine at Meijer. I use the Bob’s Red Mill brand featured above.

I order metal tins via Bulk Apothecary.

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Sources:

1. Robin E. Dodson,¹ Marcia Nishioka,² Laurel J. Standley,^1,3 Laura J. Perovich,¹ Julia Green Brody,¹ and Ruthann A. Rudel^1,  Endocrine Disruptors and Asthma Associated Chemicals in our Consumer Products.  July 2012.  Environmental Health Perspectives
2. Top Tips for Safer Products. www.Ewg.org

Bentonite clay under-arm detox {and face mask} recipe

Why would a busy working mother of two take the time to do an armpit detox?

I was conducting research and prep work for a switch to a non- toxic homemade deodorant.  I wanted to rid my pores of any residual chemicals (aluminum, fragrances, ingredients like dimethicone and preservatives).

Dimethicone is a man made silicon polymer added to products so they ‘slide’ better on the skin. It creates a barrier on the skin.  Dimethicone is found in deodorants, hair conditioners, makeup and products like muscle or pain creams.

‘It traps everything under it—including bacteria, sebum, and impurities—which could lead to increased breakouts and blackheads. The coating action actually prevents the skin from performing its normal activities—like sweating, temperature regulating, sloughing off dead skin cells, etc.’ [3]

The Bentonite Clay will draws out impurities and bring increased circulation to your skin. You may feel a slight tingling when using Bentonite clay, this is normal.

‘Ion exchange allows ingested bentonite clay to absorb internal contaminants such as toxins, heavy metals and poisons.’  [1]

Dry Bentonite Clay

What occurred after just a few days was a pleasant surprise…

I did feel fresher and noticed less odor.  Not that I was that smelly before but it did make a difference. My skin was softer and less itchy and continues to seem healed and fresher. It obviously drew out impurities. My goal was to pit-detox every night for a week, I made it 5 out of 7. Good enough.

I like deodorant and can get away with only that often, but I also like some antiperspirant action. To continue to keep my pits soft and clear of any residue, I’ve been doing this detox once a week.

I know, sweat is natural and our bodies want to sweat out toxins but I sweat enough during Tabata class. On the weekends I am able to get away with only using coconut oil with some essential oils (tea tree, lemon, or lavender mainly), but at work or a night out- it’s a must to have antiperspirant.

(I’ll post on a  homemade deodorant soon that is working perfectly for both my husband and myself).

You can imagine the responses when I posted this on my social media.

 

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Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup Calcium Bentonite Clay
• 1/4- 1/2 cup Organic Apple Cider Vinegar (optional) or distilled water. I use Bragg brand.  You can add more or less vinegar as preferred.
• 5 drops Lavender essential oil
• 5 drops Tea Tree essential oil
• 5 drops Rosemary essential oil

Mix well and apply. Allow to dry for 15-20 minutes and rinse off well by hand or gently with a clean soft washcloth. Refrigerate leftovers.  Do not use metal bowls or utensils when mixing this clay.

You don’t necessarily need to add essential oils, but what I love about essential oils is that you get to play around with them and they are multifunctional. The essential oils are going to provide many benefits.  

• Tea tree oil (Melaleuca alternifolia) for it’s blemish fighting and antibacterial/antiseptic qualities.
• Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) for moisturizing, scent, and healing. A brief Dr. Axe article on 7 uses for Lavender essential oil.

‘For instance, researchers from China have recently discovered that lavender essential oil helps your body produce three of your bodies most powerful antioxidants, glutathione, catalase, and SOD within 22 hours of using lavender essential oil!’  Source: DrAxe.com

• Rosemary is the added bonus oil for it’s fragrance and properties. It contains a-Pinene and eucalyptol.   ‘…α-Pinene is an anti-inflammatory via PGE1,^[9] ‘ [2]

(If you don’t have Lavender, Tea Tree, and Rosemary on hand you can substitute the following which are excellent and safe for skin care: Carrot Seed, Geranium, Clary Sage, Helichrysum, Copaiba, Lemon, Orange, or Cedarwood).

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Use as a Face Mask

I also use this as a face mask.  It calms any blemishes that are cropping up and stops them from getting worse. It can be used once or twice weekly to tighten and clear pores of excess oil or as an acne spot-treatment.  I always have this amazing rosy glow after using this mask. I immediately put Hemp Oil Serum on after rinsing.

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If you have any questions or wish to order Young Living essential oils, you may click on this link here to my affiliate page.  You can also comment or email me at genbumom@gmail.com.  I will respond within 24-48 hours.

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Note: These comments have not been evaluated by the FDA and are not substitutions or recommendations to treat, cure, or diagnose any diseases. If pregnant, nursing, or if you have any health conditions, please consult your physician prior to use.

Sources:

1. Lohrey, Jackie. ‘Uses for Bentonite Clay.’  August 16,2013. www.livestrong.com
2. Wikepedia. ‘Alpha-Pinene.’  Accessed October 2, 2015. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alpha-Pinene
3. Aragon, Britta. ‘The Truth Behind the Cosmetic Ingredient Dimethicone.’ August 26, 2015. www.franklipman.com

10 Ways to Use Lavender Essential Oil

10 Ways to use Lavender Essential Oil

Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) is the perfect everyday essential oil.  It’s gentle enough to be used on children, contains healing and soothing properties, and the smell is gender neutral. Lavender is known or it’s relaxing and calming, sedative-like effects.

I’ve linked to other recipes from previous posts that use Lavender essential oil because, again, I use this oil every day and for about a dozen different things.

1. Sleep Aid and Stress Reducer. Lavender promotes a restful night’s sleep and may help with insomnia and stress. [1]

Add 3-5 drops in a full bath to help children relax and wind down.  It also soothes dry skin.  Kids are, after all, always getting scratches and rashes, lavender will soothe their skin gently and effectively.

Diffuse 3 Drops Lavender plus 7 parts Stress Away blend during yoga practice or at nighttime. This blend of Lavender and Stress Away blend (Copaiba, Lime, Cedarwood, Vanilla*, Ocotea, Lavender) always gives me a gentle clarity and peace of mind during yoga practice. I feel more centered and patient the remainder of the day. {Let me be honest however, my yoga ‘practice’ is Sundays and maybe one evening per week when the kids are sleeping!}

2. Lavender is a great middle or base note for perfume making. I personally enjoy experimenting with Lavender essential oil, it pairs well with many different scents. Sometimes a drop of two is all you need when mixing scents.

• Lavender + Lemon or Lavender and a Purity blend for a light and uplifting scent
• Lavender + Ylang Yang and/or Rose or Lavender + Orange for sensuality
• Lavender + Cedarwood for grounding and peace

Add to 1 oz. carrier oil such as coconut or sweet almond:   5 drops lavender and 5 drops Clary Sage essential oil in a rollerball for an on-the-go deodorant.

I order aromatherapy glass rollerballs in a set of 6.

3. After shave spot treatment.  Dab on shaving nicks or minor cuts. You can apply Lavender essential oil ‘neat’ or directly on skin or minor cuts. No carrier oil necessary. Lavender is a very gentle oil.

4. Baby Bum Moisturizer and Bath Soak.

• Add to coconut oil for a baby bum moisturizer.  In a serum dropper:  Mix 2 oz. coconut oil plus 2-3 drops lavender for children 6 months plus.
• Or add a few drops to the bath along with Oatmeal. Pulverize organic oatmeal in a mixer for about 5 minutes into a very fine powder.  Add 1/4 cup oatmeal to bath and 5 drops of the carrier oil/lavender mix above to sooth irritated baby bottoms. Do not use on broken skin.

5. Lavender is ideal for daily skincare. Click here for a Clarifying Hemp Oil serum recipe. I use this morning and night. I have noticed a reduction in ruddiness, acne, and dark spots. I often don’t wear make up anymore on weekends. How great is that?

• Acne prone skin: Per 2 oz. of Cold Pressed Hemp seed oil:  Use a ratio of 5 drops Lavender, 5 drops Frankincense and 5 drops Tea Tree oil to help clarify and heal acne prone skin. 100% Pure Tea Tree oil has been proven as effective as salicylic acid in treating acne. To order via Genbumom click here.

• ‘try mixing tea tree oil with raw, organic honey. Honey also contains antibacterial properties and promotes skin healing.’ [2]

• Dry or mature skin: Per 2 oz. of  Cold Pressed Hemp seed oil:  Use a ratio of  5 drops Lavender, 5 drops Rosemary, and 5 drops Carrot Seed oil.

I typically alter between these two serums.

For a seriously amazing blemish spot treatment: Mix 1 TBSP Bentonite Clay and 1 TBSP Organic Apple Cider Vinegar.  Let dry 15 minutes, rinse.  Dab on 1 drop Frankincense, Tea Tree, or Lavender essential oil ‘neat.’  Diffuse some Lavender,  read a good book, and then get a peaceful night’s rest!

  6. Reduce under-eye puffiness. Mix Lavender with Copaiba, Frankincense, Rosemary, or Geranium essential oil to help reduce under eye puffiness. Use as you would any eye serum or cream and avoid direct eye contact. Always do a spot tests first. If irritation develops do not rinse with water, apply carrier oil to dilute.

I use coconut oil as an eye makeup remover, it’s a gentle carrier oil for an eye serum.

7. Belly bloat reducer.  Add to 2 oz. carrier oil such as coconut or sweet almond:   5 drops lavender and 10-12 drops Clary Sage or Cobaipa essential oil in a rollerball for bloat reduction PMS or period bloating or mood relief. 

8. Body Wash and Hand Soap. Add Lavender to water and Castile soap for a body wash.

Add 3 drops Lavender,  2 Tsp. Castile Soap, and water in a foaming dispenser for hand soap.

9. Dab directly on bug bites and bee stings to soothe itching or burning. Safe for children. You should generally dilute with a carrier oil for use on children.

I tend to have allergic reactions to mosquito bites and Lavender oil quickly reduced itchiness and bump size (better than hydrocortizone cream in my opinion). I used to get  bumps that would last for days, but they are gone the following day after using Lavender oil.

10. Ouch a minor burn!  If not serious and NO broken skin:  Dab diluted peppermint oil on immediately (1 drop peppermint per 1 TBSP water), continue to dab on peppermint water until stinging subsides.

Add Lavender to a healing carrier oil such as Rose hip oil or Grapeseed oil for the next week and apply often.

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Were you counting? That was 10 Uses for Lavender Essential Oil…

Below are 3 more ways to use this versatile and gentle oil.

• Add 1 drop Lavender to your mascara tube to keep it fresh and your lashes moisturized. You can also add 1 drop Cedarwood to aid in fullness and lash retention.

• Per WebMD:  ‘Canker sores. Some research shows that applying two drops of lavender oil to the affected area three times daily can improve canker sore healing and reduce canker sore swelling and pain.’ [1]

• ‘Hair loss in a condition called alopecia areata. There is some evidence that applying lavender oil in combination with oils from thyme, rosemary, and cedarwood might improve hair growth by as much as 44% after 7 months of treatment.’ [1]

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Sources:

1. ‘Lavender.’  Accessed October 16, 2015. www.WebMD.com
2. ‘How to use Tea Tree Oil for Acne.’ Accessed October 17, 2015. www.wikihow.com