We read labels all the time. When we see such things as sodium lauryl sulfate and other ingredients in thousands of beauty, hygiene and food products, we take a pass. Fortunately, many local or smaller companies are stepping in to fill the void. When you read the ingredients of a particular product and you can’t pronounce the first few—you’re better off going with something basic, natural and pure.
Kelp and Seaweed
You can add leaves, for their mineral content, to a hot bath to soften skin, relieve muscle aches and pains, and detoxify. You can consume it as a great source of iodine and minerals. It is wonderful for a healthy thyroid and supports muscles for athletes and a healthy inflammatory response. My favorite for bathing is The Seaweed Bath Company, a local brand.
Manuka Honey
This special honey from New Zealand contains tea tree oil and is used in hospitals around the world as a natural bandage. The low pH can support healthy bacteria levels. Manuka can absorb water from a wound to deprive bacteria of moisture, yet also provide a moist healing environment. When honey dilutes the fluid of a wound, it produces hydrogen peroxide, which also supports healthy bacteria levels and a healthy inflammatory response, as well as relieving pain. Manuka honey is also safe to apply on animals. It is commonly used in skin care for acne treatment. Try applying it as a facial mask to improve moisture content and reduce blemishes. When you are rating manuka honey, look on the label for Unique Manuka Factor (UMF) or Bio Active number. The higher the number, the higher the concentration of beneficial properties. Worthwhile brands include Honey New Zealand, Wedderspoon, and Pacific Resources International.
