More and more people are realizing that when it comes to taking care of our bodies, perhaps nature has the answers. Rather than relying on chemicals and solutions brewed up in laboratories and/or tested on animals, we are discovering new ways to care for ourselves which take advantage of the natural store cupboard our planet has to offer. Buying natural ingredients and organic products can even work out to more cost-effective in the long term as they offer so much versatility. Whether you want to make your own DIY beauty products or are just starting to test the water, here are 5 ingredients you should consider making part of your everyday self-care routine.
- Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is now a hugely popular ingredient to keep in the house because it can be used in both the kitchen and in your skin routine. A small spoon of coconut oil in a frying pan is much like cooking with butter, but research has shown that it can actually support weight loss as it speeds up the metabolism. Coconut oil can also be used in its pure form as a skin lotion as it moisturizes, reduces inflammation and can even help wounds to heal. You can either buy coconut oil in bulk to save money or in smaller quantities if you want to give it a trial run before you invest.
- Hemp
Hemp is a variety of cannabis plant but is a different species from marijuana. The key difference between them is that marijuana has higher levels of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) which is responsible for the plan’s psychoactive effects. Hemp is very low in THC but still delivers the nutritional and medical benefits of the plant. Hemp seeds can be eaten as a source of plant-based protein, but there is also a wide range of hemp wellness products which can help improve the condition of your skin, relieve muscle soreness, pain, PMS and inflammation and help you to sleep better at night. Life Bloom Organics offer a range of nanotized hemp products here.
- Shea Butter
Shea butter is incredibly nourishing for the skin and has been linked to improving skin conditions such as eczema when used with coconut oil. Unrefined and organic shea butter has a gentle scent of nuts. It also has antibacterial qualities which can prevent aging in skin, support the healing of wounds and even prevent stretch marks during pregnancy. In addition, it provides a low level of sun protection of around SPF 5.
- Beeswax
We know how important bees are for pollination and the natural ecosystem, but it just so happens that they also produce a magical substance called beeswax. Beeswax can be used as a thickening agent in organic lotions, lip balm, foot creams and more, all the while providing a subtle scent of honey.
- Liquid Carrier Oil
If you are creating your own lotions, oils or balms, you may find that shea butter or coconut oil is too thick to use. A liquid carrier oil such as apricot kernel oil, olive oil or almond oil will provide a thinner consistency with very little scent. If you want to add a scent you can mix in some essential oils such as lavender, lemon, mint, sandalwood or orange.
