Squeaky Clean
The term “Clean Living” is one that is banded around indiscriminately and seems to be ever omnipresent in our society.
This is reflected more so in our dietary requirements but is increasingly becoming prerequisite in other areas such as cosmetics and household products.
Natural Chemicals?
Nowadays, it is becoming more apparent that we as consumers are demanding the reduction or elimination of chemicals from within our homes – whether it be in skincare or a cleaning detergent.
Yet what price are we paying for these “natural” products if indeed they are natural at all?
Often a heftier one than its chemically-enhanced counterpart some might say!
Why not opt for the “real” deal?
Essential Oils
Let’s go old-school/retro and take a step back in time………
Essential oils are nothing new. In fact they have been in existence for centuries and have multi-purpose uses.
Tea Tree Oil
Melaleuca – commonly known as Tea Tree oil has been used by the indigenous people of Australia for decades. Today its antimicrobial and antifungal properties make it a popular active ingredient.
Yet used in its pure form, diluted with a carrier oil such as coconut oil on a 1:1 ratio – can be an irritant if used neat on skin – this little gem has all manner of usages:
- A scalp and hair treatment – combine it with your favourite shampoo, conditioner – no need to bin them or add to almond oil – particularly good for dry scalp conditions.
- Banish those pesky pimples – just as good as many off-the-shelf remedies that include benzoyl peroxide.
- Ease the discomfort and possibly speed up the healing of eczema and psoriasis.
- Boost you after sun care regime – by adding to aloe vera to soothe minor sunburns or your body moisturizer.
- Treat nail infections – its antiseptic properties will zap those fungal bad boys away.
Alternatively:
- Add a few drops to your laundry to banish bacteria and odours and cleanse your machine by using it in an empty cycle.
- Soak your toothbrush in a water based solution to eliminate any harbouring microbes – ensure you rinse thoroughly! Yes we are a smoothie company however we do not suggest the consumption of anything inedible!
- Rid yourself of mucus by creating your own steam bath – a DIY decongestant like no other.
- Create your own homemade anti-bacterial household cleaner by mixing with water, vinegar and lemon essential oil. A must for asthmatic sufferers who find the fumes from general cleaners to be quite toxic and a trigger.
Now some may blanch at the idea of mixing oils and solutions and it certainly is not for everyone. Time or the lack of it – will certainly be the main issue concerning those who are hesitant. However determine whether all the products stacked in your bathroom cabinets and kitchens/utility rooms are beneficial or worse – are even used!
In a time of austerity measures being a canny, frugal individual is not something to be scoffed at.
Not only will your bank account be merrier – tea tree is as cheap as chips and so potent that only a few drops are required- ultimately you will have a greater control of what your body is ingesting.
