Natural

15 Nov

Carrier Oils for Every Skin Type

 

herbal-oils

Last week we talked about the dry skin blues and some ways to help keep it at bay. Today we’re focusing one one of the best things you can do for your skin, the use of plant derived carrier oils to help rehydrate and moisturize dry skin. Skin types vary and maybe the opposite, oily skin, is your issue or perhaps you have combination skin. In any case, there are carrier oils that are right for you!

It may seem odd to put oil on your face, it’s a much more common practice in England and other places in the world. The thing is that your skin naturally produces oil called sebum. When it’s washed away, your skin craves more and by keeping a balance by replenishing with the right kinds of carrier oils, you may find that you’ll help combat a number of issues and have happier, healthier skin. Few of the plant oils we will discuss have any kind of significant smell so we’ll include some ideas for essential oils which you can add a few drops of to your carrier oil.

Here are a few, easy to find carrier oils which can be used on both face and body and which types of skin they are best suited for. . .

Jojoba Oil  

Jojoba is a type of shrub found in the deserts of California, Arizona and Utah. The great thing about it is that it mimics the consistency of sebum and therefore it absorbs well into the skin. Jojoba, pronounced “ho-ho-ba”, can be used on any skin type with great benefit.

Evening Primrose Oil

We know it sounds strange to use oil on already oily skin but for some folks, it actually can help balance you out and keep the skin from over producing sebum. Evening Primrose Oil taken internally can even assist in balancing out hormones. One of the best plant oils for reducing inflammation and promoting elasticity.

Coconut Oil

The internet is chock full of articles about the many, many beneficial uses of coconut oil and it’s one of the best things for dry skin! However, folks who are acne prone may want to stick with jojoba. It is heavy and it will take a few minutes to sink in but when it does, it provides amazing relief for dry skin.

Apricot Kernel Oil

This easily absorbed carrier oil is great for those with combination to dry skin types. It’s anti-inflammatory and antibacterial which helps against acne causing bacteria.

Grapeseed Oil

This  works well for most skin types and is very light and easily absorbed. It’s chock full of Vitamin E which helps moisturize and tighten the skin. It’s great at speeding up the healing of acne and reduces redness and inflammation.

Essential Oils

For normal skin types: Chamomile, Lavender, Fennel, Rose, Sandalwood

For oily skin types: Cedarwood, Bergamot, Clary Sage, Grapefruit

For dry skin types: Ylang, Ylang, Rose Geranium, Roman Chamomile

For acne prone skin: Tea Tree, Thyme, Bergamot, Vetiver

Keep in mind that any kind of change to your skincare routine typically comes with a transition period where you might notice a few breakouts. Stick with it for a couple of weeks to truly get an idea of whether it’s working for you or not.

Health, Healthy Lifestyle, Natural , , , , , , , , , , Comments Off on Carrier Oils for Every Skin Type Read more...
09 Nov

#TBT – Sage – History and Benefits

Spices, herbs, tinctures and essential oils have been used for millennia to season our food, heal our bodies and boost our spirits. In our Throwback Thursday (#TBT) series, we at re:iimmune will take you back in history to learn how these gifts from Mother Nature have been used. We’ll focus on their use through the ages and beneficial purposes in regard to nutrition, natural health and household care. This week we focus on the herbal savior, sage!

SAGE.TIF

“How can a man grow old who has sage in his garden?” is an old proverb quoted throughout much of Europe, China and Persia. During the 17th century, sage was so valued by the Chinese that Dutch merchants discovered that they would trade three chests of Chinese tea for just one chest of sage. The word sage derives from the Latin word salvare which means “to save” bestowed for it’s many healing and curative properties.

Native Americans called the sagebrush “spirit caller” and used it in the cleansing and purification of their dwellings. Still today, people looking to cleanse their home of bad vibes or just to refresh the air will burn a smudge stick made of sage. Some even find relief from the smoke for sinus congestion or pain as well as migraines. Sage contains saponins which improve circulation and its been used for over a thousand years in the treatment of Cerebrovascular disease. Like its family member rosemary, it is also known for improving memory and many studies are showing that it may even help treat and prevent Alzheimer’s. With these benefits, it’s no wonder we use the word “sage” to describe a very wise person!

The herb  is prized for it’s strong flavor and for many people the smell of it evokes the holidays. Which is perfect, as the herb is known for its ability to assist the body in digesting all those fatty foods we enjoy this time of year! Also, red sage has been used traditionally as a treatment for inflammation of the mouth, throat and tonsils so it’s one to turn to for relief during cold season.

In the garden, sage is a fragrant and often overlooked spring flowering plant. There are dozens of varieties; some for cooking, some for medicinal purposes and some ornamental. Most are very hardy and prefer well drained soil. Common sage, which is most often used in cooking, produces beautiful purple flowers which attract bees and other beneficial insects to the garden.

We’ve collected a few useful DIY’s for you that take advantage of sage’s many wonderful offerings. Enjoy!

Sage Tincture for Colds and Sore Throats (scroll to bottom of article)

Homegrown Smudge Sticks

Fresh Sage Wreath

Diet, Digestion, Healthy Lifestyle, Illness Recovery, Natural, Natural Health, Nutrition , , , , Comments Off on #TBT – Sage – History and Benefits Read more...
27 Oct

#TBT – Witch Hazel – History and Benefits

Spices, herbs, tinctures and essential oils have been used for millennia to season our food, heal our bodies and boost our spirits. In our Throwback Thursday (#TBT) series, we at re:iimmune will take you back in history to learn how these gifts from Mother Nature have been used. We’ll focus on their use through the ages and beneficial purposes in regard to nutrition, natural health and household care. Today we focus on wonderful Witch Hazel!

screen-shot-2016-10-21-at-10-56-31-am

Indigenous to North America, hamamelis or witch hazel has been prized for thousands of years for it’s astringent, anti-inflammatory and healing benefits. Native Americans boiled the bark and leaves to create an extract that was valued for its cooling and healing properties in treating swellings and inflammations. Early New England Puritans copied the idea and it’s use in America has been widespread after Dr. Charles Hawes found that steam distillation of the plant’s twigs was more effective. “Hawes Extract” came on the market in Essex, Connecticut in 1846. The process was further refined by Thomas Newton Dickinson, Sr. who began the commercial production of the product. Dickinson’s Witch Hazel is still on the market today.

Because it’s naturally rich in tannins, which have a drying effect, witch hazel’s astringent powers have been found to be helpful in treating hemorrhoids, minor bleeding and skin irritation from insect bites and poison ivy. Some folks have also had success in using it to treat psoriasis and eczema. Because of it’s skin tightening properties, it’s also effective at slowing down and stopping bleeding from small cuts and scrapes.

Witch Hazel is also prized by “Water Diviners” who practice an ancient technique called dowsing wherein a limb or branch of a tree is used to “divine” where water is located underground. They are also a great choice for landscaping as they are hardy, low maintenance and ignored by most pests. Whether you consider them a small tree or a large shrub, they are manageably sized, topping out at 10 to 20 feet. Some varieties will spread nearly as wide, making them a great addition when wanting to cover a lot of space in the yard. Best of all is the beautiful yellow glow you’ll see in your yard when its leaves turn in early autumn. Then in late fall, its spicy smelling, spidery shaped yellow flowers appear and will remain on the branches long after the leaves have fallen.

We can enjoy witch hazel’s beauty and also incorporate it into our own beauty routine! It’s commonly used as a toner and some folks claim that it helps to reduce puffiness and dark circles under the eyes. To test it out for yourself, mix equal parts witch hazel and aloe vera gel and pat under the eyes. We’ve included links to some other Do-It-Yourself beauty products that include witch hazel below. Enjoy!

 

DIY Rosemary, Cedarwood and Witch Hazel Facial Toner

DIY Mouthwash with Witch Hazel, Peppermint and Aloe Vera Juice

Homemade Makeup Remover Wipes

Healthy Lifestyle, Natural, Natural Health , , , , Comments Off on #TBT – Witch Hazel – History and Benefits Read more...
26 Oct

Natural Remedies in the Fight Against Fall Allergies

screen-shot-2016-10-21-at-10-47-01-am

Last time, we talked about understanding the main culprits behind fall allergies and different ways to prevent them. Today we’ve got some suggestions of natural helpers to relieve your symptoms!

Raw Local Honey

Not only is it yummy but it also relieves symptoms of seasonal allergies as it contains the local pollen that is causing those allergies. Adding a couple of teaspoons into your day each day helps you to build up a tolerance. It’s a good idea to do this year round.

Pineapple

Sweet and juicy relief! Pineapple contains the enzyme bromelain which helps to reduce swelling in the nose and sinuses.

Apple Cider Vinegar

Well known for giving your immune system a boost, it also helps in breaking up mucus and supports lymphatic drainage. When you are feeling that runny nose coming on, try mixing one tablespoon each of Apple Cider Vinegar, fresh lemon juice and local honey mixed with water to get some relief.

How Can re:iimmune help?

As we discussed in the last post, staying hydrated is one of the most important steps to take in preventing and relieving symptoms of fall allergies. You want to flush all that nastiness out of your system! Our isotonic Clinical Strength Hydration® formula also contains zinc, which helps adrenal fatigue caused by stress. Stress worsens the symptoms of both seasonal allergies and the common cold.

Other Supplements and Essential Oils

Other supplements to add into your routine include Spirulina, Stinging Nettle and Quercetin, all of which help stop the release of histamines.
Some folks find relief by using a combination of different essential oils. Remember that essential oils should typically not be applied directly to the skin. Instead, they should be added to a carrier oil such as jojoba, sweet almond or grapeseed oil to avoid irritation. Lavender, peppermint, lemon, eucalyptus and tea tree essential oils have strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory qualities to aid in your allergy relief. One common way to get their benefits is by adding a few undiluted drops to your bath or shower to breathe in as you wash that pollen away! Check out essentialoilbenefits.com for more ideas and essential oil recipes.

Allergies, Hydration, Natural, Zinc , , , , , , Comments Off on Natural Remedies in the Fight Against Fall Allergies Read more...
22 Jun

No More Bandaids

Why Wednesday

“I’ve strugglSarah_Garzaed for most of my adult life with constant UTI’s and in 2014, this reached an all-time high. I was pregnant, and during this pregnancy, I had 7 (yes 7) bladder infections and consumed countless rounds of antibiotics. By the end of it, I was exhausted, frustrated and feeling awful. My doctors decided to put me on a daily prescription that I would have to take for the rest of my life. Not a cure by any means, but a ‘bandaid” just to get me by. After reading the side effects of the medication, I knew I had to find a way to heal myself naturally. I began a diet of whole foods, and I started pumping my body full of probiotics. During this personal health revolution, a friend of mine told me about re:iimmune. It sounded like everything I was trying to put in my body all in one small packet! I ordered some re:iimmune almost immediately. Now, re:iimmune has become a part of mine and my family’s regular health routine. Sometimes, if I’m feeling particularly run down, I’ll take it once a day for several days in a row. Recently I had a stomach virus and the only thing I could keep in my system was the re:iimmune. My body was able to heal itself while staying hydrated. It’s been over a year and a half and I haven’t had one UTI, nor have I been on any antibiotics. I also never did take the prescription that was supposed to make my life “bearable”.  For me, this is a medical miracle! I’m the healthiest I’ve ever been and I contribute this to great gut health with the help of re:iimmune. I feel better at 40 than I did at 30, and I’m expecting a healthy baby boy this summer.” -Sarah

 

As a society, we have just begun to scratch the surface when it comes to our understanding of digestive health, and the effect it has on our overall health- the benefits of a healthy gut are proving to be endless! From energy improvements, uplifted moods, hormone balance and generalized health- to notable improvements in chronic illnesses and serious diseases. Digestive health has been linked back to all things positive in regards to our wellbeing. It’s time that we stop putting “Band-Aids” on our laundry list of symptoms, and begin to heal ourselves from the inside out.

When it comes to a healthy digestive system, there isn’t one explanation, one supplement, or one diet to correct the complexities of each individual body. Instead, it takes work, research and an open mind to find what’s right for you and your body. One thing we do know is that no matter who you are, or what your body tolerates, adequate hydration and healthy intestinal bacteria will assist your body in its attempt to heal itself. re:iimmune® contains a multi-strain probiotic blend that is accompanied by a prebiotic which acts as food for the probiotics and in turn, aids in your healthy intestinal bacteria’s growth. At the core of re:iimmune® is our Clinical Strength Hydration® formula which helps your body maintain optimal function for all of its vital organs, while strengthening your immune system. If you’re feeling distraught over reoccurring symptoms, a negative prognosis, or a plateau in your personal health goals, add re:iimmune® to your routine and get better, better™!

Antibiotics, Chronic Illness, Dehydration, Dehydration, Diet, Digestion, Digestive Health, Disease, Health, Health Condition, Healthy Lifestyle, Hydration, Hydration Supplement, Illness Recovery, Immunity, Immunity Boost, Medication, Natural, Nausea, Prebiotic Supplement, Prebiotics, Probiotics, Side Effects , , , , , , , , , , Comments Off on No More Bandaids Read more...
15 Jun

Shake it Off!

Why Wednesday 

lezley_Dhonau“After a 4 month run of colds, flu, stomach ache and sickness- I felt unable to shake off the last of it each time to be able to fully recover. I then got hit with oral thrush which really told me my guts were not in a good way and I suspected I was chronically dehydrated too. With just the first few mouthfuls of re:iimmune I feel uplifted and more energized. It’s like drinking a fresh coconut…you know it is good – it feels like it is instantly boosting your health!  I changed the food I eat to clean out my system, but the re:iimmune has been a key part of recovering fully and resetting my gut to a healthier state, and no cramping. I am passionate about only putting natural foods in my body and re:iimmune fits this need for me. It is now a firm addition to my medical kit.” -L. Dhonau
Those first few hints of a cold or flu normally send you running for the medicine cabinet with determination. You tell yourself “I will not let this slow me down!” If you begin to fight it early on, you just might be fortunate enough to kick the infection before it’s got you stuck to your bed for a week or so. Although, when an infection does take up roots, it may send you on a downward spiral that can last weeks, or months before you fully recover. When you eventually do recover, you are often left with a compromised immune system, and the after effects that most common symptom relievers leave behind. Chronic illness patients can attest to the fact that feeling ill for long periods of time can feel discouraging, but don’t give up. After you’ve conquered an illness, it’s important to remember that your immune system has taken a hit and will be left more vulnerable to further infection even after your symptoms have cleared up.
The illness recovery formula in re:iimmune® contains just what your body needs in order to shake off an infection, or infections. Hydration is a key component to your body’s ability to create healthy cells and a strong immune system. Often times, when you’re experiencing cold and flu symptoms, drinking fluids is easier said than done, and your hydration levels drop as a result. The ginger root in re:iimmune® helps to soothe an upset stomach as the Clinical Strength Hydration® Formula, and multi strain pre and probiotic blend, get to balancing out your body’s hydration and intestinal immune support needs. Since re:iimmune® is sugar free, and doesn’t contain toxic coloring agents, your body won’t have to spend it’s energy figuring out what to protect itself against and what to use to heal itself. Since nearly 70% of your body’s immune system is located in  your intestines, our intestinal immune support formula boosts the very core of your immune system while helping you get back up on your feet.
Take a tip from our friend in the U.K.- keep re:iimmune® as a firm addition to your medical kit, and get better, better™!
Cold, Dehydration, Diabetic Friendly, Digestion, Digestive Health, Flu, Ginger Root, Health, Health Condition, Healthcare, Healthy Lifestyle, Hydration, Hydration Supplement, Illness, Illness Recovery, Immunity, Immunity Boost, Medication, Natural, Nausea, Nauseous, Prebiotic Supplement, Prebiotics, Probiotics, Side Effects, Sugar Free , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , Comments Off on Shake it Off! Read more...
08 Jun

You Don’t Have to be Sick to re:iimmune

Why Wednesday

 

“FortunatPaula_WhyWednesdayely, we haven’t had chemo, radiation, or an especially severe case of bad “gut health.”  However, it is possible that we represent a large percentage of those who use re:iimmune on a daily, weekly or bi-weekly basis for our general health and comfort.  I first became aware of the product about two years ago when my husband had a rather long and unexplained problem with his tummy.  He drank one dose a day for about a week and just that quickly he felt so much better.  We have experienced the usual upsets typical of 90 and 80 year olds, but since discovering re:iimmune the difference is that we know what to do about it now.”  -Paula Ahlborn

Here at Make People Better headquarters, we often hear the question: “do I have to be sick to drink re:iimmune®?” Of course not! The truth is, I don’t know a single person who wouldn’t benefit from Clinical Strength Hydration® and Intestinal Immune support. Drinking re:iimmune® on a regular basis is a wonderful way to build up your immune system, and feel better, better™ . The Zinc and 275mg of ginger root in re:iimmune® give your body an extra immune boost, and also aid in reducing upset digestive patterns, and soothing nausea. Ginger alone packs a powerful punch in conjunction with generalized health, you can read more about that here.

We regularly hear from our faithful customers and friends that drinking re:iimmune® every single day has made a definite improvement on their quality of life, and for numerous reasons. Moment of truth: I personally live, eat, and breathe this stuff, but even I don’t remember to drink it every single day, yet, as soon as I start to feel sluggish or physically off, I crave it immediately! Moral of the story is that your health journey is yours, and it will be unique for each individual. As a health conscious person, you’re surely going to attempt to drink enough water in a day, eat foods that promote a healthy digestive pattern, and possibly even supplement with a probiotic formula on occasion. The beauty of re:iimmune® is that it’s truly the whole package in one tiny packet. For the days when you haven’t had time to sit down (much less drink an adequate amount of water), for the days that you cave and  wind up eating that one thing you know your body will not thank you for later, for the days that you just want to lay your head down on your desk and call it quits, re:iimmune® just might be the pick up you need! As for Paula and I, we sure think so. Until next Wednesday, Get better, better™!

Digestion, Digestive Health, Electrolytes, Ginger Root, Health, Healthy Lifestyle, Hydration, Hydration Supplement, Illness, Immunity Boost, Natural, Nausea, Nauseous, Prebiotic Supplement, Prebiotics, Probiotics, Senior Care , , , , , , , , , , , 0 Comments Read more...
06 Jun

Take Your Medication

If you’re anything like me, you become a little leery when you’re prescribed a new medication. What are the side effects, and the long term consequences of this medication? Are these consequences worth the foreseeable benefits? Is it even the right medication for your unique condition? Is it worth the financial cost, or is it covered by your insurance? These are all common questions, especially for those of us who aren’t use to taking prescription medications on a regular basis.

There is a lot that goes into making sure you get the most out of your prescribed medication. First, and most obviously, getting your prescription actually filled is step one, taking your medication on time, and then making sure you have a good understanding of the directions you’ve been given. It’s important to ask your healthcare provider the correct questions and honestly voice your reasons for hesitation. Often times when we choose to take our medication choices into our own hands without consulting our doctor, we wind up adding greater complications to our illness and in turn, create for ourselves a lower quality of life.

As intimidating as a new medication can appear, it’s vital that you communicate with your health care provider, and do everything you can to reach a mutual agreement on a plan that works both for your lifestyle and your condition, which supports medication adherence. The statistics speak for themselves, medication non-adherence has been found to lead to nearly 20% of preventable adverse drug events in the community setting, and 25% of premature nursing home admissions. Not only that, but it can easily lead to the progression of diseases that would otherwise be preventable, extra doctors visits, and the possibility of premature death.

If you don’t know where to start, or how to keep yourself on track with your medication, here are a few tips from us to you:

Organize– Pick up a pill organizer from your local pharmacy to eliminate any missed or doubled doses.

organize your medication

Ask– Make sure you are taking the best medication for you by doing research on your own, and then taking any questions you have to your trusted physician.

consult your doctor about your medication

 

Record– If you feel like you are experiencing adverse reactions or side effects to your new medication, write them down as they come up so that you can accurately consult your doctor.

record your medication

Remind– Set a reminder on your phone or clock to take your medication at the designated time each day.

set reminders to take your medication

 

Accountability– Talk about your medication use with the people closest to you. Let your significant other, your care giver, or your house mates know about your medication and ask someone you trust to check in with you regularly.

caregivers and medication

re:iimmune®– Ultimately, most medications do in fact take some type of toll on your body’s hydration and intestinal health. Make sure you pair a daily dose of re:iimmune® with your new medication to help ease any possible side effects. Between the ginger for nausea reduction, zinc for immune boosting strength, pre and probiotic blend for intestinal health, and the Clinical Strength hydration formula, you’re sure to feel better, better!

reiimmune with medication

Antibiotics, Dehydration, Diabetes, Diabetic Friendly, Digestive Health, Electrolytes, Ginger Root, Health, Hydration, Hydration Supplement, Illness, Immunity Boost, L-Glutamine, Medication, Medication Adherence, Natural, Natural Health, Nauseous, Nutrition, Pharmacist, Pharmacy, Prebiotic Supplement, Prebiotics, Prescription, Probiotics, Senior Care, Side Effects, Sugar Free , , , , , , , , 0 Comments Read more...