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For essential oils, purity starts at the source; the planting, harvesting,  and extraction processes take place before an essential oil ever reaches a lab. Yet, there is still the potential for adulteration and contamination to occur before an essential oil reaches the consumer. To ensure that not only are your oils pure, but of the highest quality available, testing, such…

The Best Essential Oils for Your Skin Essential oils are plant extracts made from flowers, leaves, and seeds. Some may have properties that can treat certain skin conditions. If you’re interested in trying essential oils specific to your skin concerns, consider talking to your dermatologist about the following options. Essential Oils For Dry Skin. Dry skin can occur during certain times of…

Top 15 Essential Oils to Purify Air in 2021 (How-to-Checklist+Air Purifying Kit! Wondering how to use essential oils to purify air? Yes, my dear you can easily use these organic and 100% natural essential oil drops to make your home fresher and cleaner in a jiffy! Read on to know how these wonder drops can help you purify your home,…

What is Rose Geranium? Some people use the essential oil from the rose geranium plant for various medicinal and home health remedies. Keep reading to find out what we know about the properties of rose geranium essential oil for healing and home use. A rose geranium is a type of geranium plant with leaves that smell strongly like roses. This…

What are the benefits of peppermint oil? Peppermint oil comes from the peppermint plant, which is a hybrid of spearmint and water mint. People have used peppermint oil for centuries to treat a range of illnesses, including digestive conditions, colds, and headaches. However, according to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH), scientists have only carried out a small…

Vitamin C serums have gained superhero status amongst skincare enthusiasts, and for good reason. Vitamin C is a powerhouse ingredient with numerous skin benefits that range from decreasing wrinkles to fading dark spots. So, what’s not to love? Well, there’s a caveat every savvy, health-conscious consumer should be aware of before investing hard-earned dollars into just any Vitamin C serum.…

Hyaluronic acid. To the less beauty-savvy, it may sound like something you don't want to put anywhere near your face (we all took chemistry lessons at school, just saying...). But, what if we told you that hyaluronic acid actually holds the key to smooth, flawless and hydrated skin? In fact, our own skin cells actually produce hyaluronic acid naturally in a bid…

Ingredients listings are vital for you to read, whether that's on a food label or in your beauty product. To ensure you're getting the best out of your face cleanser, it's time to take a deeper look into what you use to remove the makeup, dirt, and oil that can accumulate on your face in a day and even prevent…

Facial treatments are all the rage, with many making their pilgrimage to beauty boutiques ever so often in their quest for fabulous-looking skin. While these treatments are quick to zap away skin imperfections, are they really worth it? Are facials really good or bad for your skin? The answer is more complicated than just a simple ‘yes’ or ‘no’ and…

Daily moisturizing is vital for healthy skin, yet some think of it as an aesthetically-inclined habit. Our skin is the body’s largest organ and requires regular attention to stay young, blemish-free and healthy. To understand how moisturizing your skin is important, read further. What Moisturizer to Use Regularly using lotion and moisturizer should be a part of any good skin…

You have probably heard a lot about retinol on an ingredient list to your skincare products. They are definitely an all-time superstar when it comes to treating the anti-aging, acne-fighting sector. I will break down for you what retinol is and why it had became the most recommended over the counter skin care ingredients in this post. What is Retinol?…

Blackheads are pretty easy to spot. They’re those pimples at the surface of the skin that appear black because as open comedones  — they turn that color due to oxidization when exposed to air. There are different kinds of black dots that can pop up on your skin, commonly mistaken as blackheads. They’re called sebaceous filaments! What’s a Sebaceous Filament?…

Our body and face skin conditions form the same way. Skin problems alike happen in the same way when your pores remain uncleaned and unclogged, our skin is covered in millions of tiny pores. For example, acne develops when your pores get plugged up with dead skin and excess oil, known as sebum. Bacteria grow in these clogged pores and…

As science and technology bring us more detailed information about the foods we eat, the crucial role of nutrition in the maintenance of good health becomes increasingly clear. Along with the growing trove of information about nutrition is the knowledge of what kinds of food provide the very best nutrients, so the key to good health is twofold: Eat as…

We will help you understand what acne is and help you identify each type of acne and the causes. This is the key to gaining the upper hand on your acne, to control your acne instead of letting your acne control you. What is Acne? There is no single disease which causes more psychic trauma, maladjustment between parents and children,…

Wrinkles are not unstoppable. They might be part of the natural process of aging but that doesn't mean we can do nothing to elevate or improve the situation. Below are some of the tips we can help you have smoother skin. We’ve all been there – the moment you notice your first fine line. Whether it’s a tiny crease that…

What is psoriasis? Psoriasis is a chronic skin disorder. It’s considered an autoimmune disease. This means your immune system harms your body instead of protecting it. Around 7.4 million people in the United States have this condition. Psoriasis causes your skin to develop scaly patches that are sometimes silvery or red and can be itchy and painful. The patches can come and go over the course…

Resveratrol is a newer oxidant that is present in red grapes, red wines, nuts, and fruits such as blueberries and cranberries. Research shows that resveratrol is an efficient antioxidant that, when applied topically, helps protect and brighten the skin, break up free radicals and calm the skin. It also stimulates collagen. You will find resveratrol in creams and moisturizers. Have…

Choosing: Anti-Aging Products There are so many shimmering new anti-aging products that are now entering the skincare market all the time, so how do we know which one are the good ones? Many magazine editors just want to be promoting every ingredient available in the skincare products. But have you wondered if it is so good as it claimed it…

Ethylhexylglycerin is a natural preservative derived from glycerin that also functions as a surfactant, a deodorizing agent, and a skin-conditioning agent in cosmetics and personal care products. Ethylhexylglycerin is a relatively new chemical on the market.  Many companies use it as an alternative to parabens and claim that it's from natural sources.  Yes, it may have started out as a…

Having any skin condition can be frustrating. Trying to find something that actually helps treat it without further damaging skin can be irritating. Some products claim to be gentle, but as soon as they come into contact with our skin, they leave it feeling dry and irritated. Others even seem to further worsen skin conditions, and some may seem to…

As much as I like to tell diets to go f*ck themselves, I can also admit that a detox would probably do me good. The thought of ridding my body of the bad stuff and feeling noticeably healthier sounds amazing, but I've struggled to find a plan that didn't intimidate me. I refuse to cut carbs for an entire week…

What is Polyacrylamide? Polyacrylamide is a polymer of acrylamide monomers. In cosmetics and personal care products, Polyacrylamide is used in the formulation of may product types including skin cleansers, moisturizers, lotions and creams, self-tanning products, makeup, and hair care, and nail care products. Why Is It Used In Cosmetics and Personal Care Products? Polyacrylamide dries to form a thin coating on…

It originated from coconut. Glyceryl stearate is created by the esterification of glycerin and stearic acid. Glyceryl stearate creates an excellent emulsion and when used in combination with other emulsifiers, creates a stable lotion. Characteristics An interesting characteristic of glyceryl stearate is the ability to make the oils that are combined in the emulsion non-greasy, so for example Sunflower can…

PPG-20 methyl glucose ether provides cleansing agent formula. Mild naturally derived humectant, Alkoxylated methyl glycosides, such as PPG-20 methyl glucose ether (Glucam™ P-20 Humectant), a solvent offering good fragrance fixation properties as well as interesting sensorial benefits such as the reduction in tackiness. It provides excellent performances in AP/DEO formulations containing antiperspirant agents (e.g., aluminum chlorohydrate and aluminum zirconium chlorohydrate…

Decyl Glucoside is a natural, non-ionic surfactant, ideal for all foaming and cleansing products. Like Coco-Glucoside, Decyl Glucoside is, obtained from renewable raw materials, through a combination of plant-based fatty alcohols (coconut c8-16) and glucose (sugar/starch). Decyl Glucoside is a mild, and gentle, surfactant and because it does not dry the skin it is ideal for the formulation of personal…

How is the lavender oil made and how do we start embracing its power into your normal routine. How it’s made, how it benefits your skin, and how to start using it in your routine Gone are the days when lavender was nothing more than grandma’s secret weapon for freshening up the powder room. From milk tea to marshmallows, cleansers…

Overview Tea tree oil is one essential oil that can be used to benefit the skin, and provide an alternative to the conventional treatments. Tea tree oil is used to provide skincare solution, and improves the overall appearance of the skin. It can be used to treat hair, nail, and skin. They are also found in insect repellent, mouthwash, and…

Green tea extracts helps to even the skin tone, maintain collagen level and improve skin health. INCI: Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract    Source: Green Tea Leaves Our rating: GOOD Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract? Green tea extract is made from evergreen leaves. These undeveloped leaves are harvested manually, steamed to prevent fermentation and then pressed and dried.  The Japanese have one of the…

Peptide is one super-smart ingredient used in skincare. They're not just amazing, they're essential In my columns I will be de-bunking skin myths, letting you in on skincare secrets and telling you exactly which ingredients the skincare industry is currently obsessed with and why. We start with an ingredient that’s having somewhat of a moment: peptides. Peptide Source Peptides are…

The world of skincare can be confusing, can’t it? We try to be careful about what we put on our skin. We purchase products from reputable companies. We read ingredient labels and avoid anything that sounds too chemical or harsh. But there are exceptions to the rules. Sometimes our first instincts are wrong. Take the following two ingredients, for example:…

Cocodimonium Hydroxypropyl Hydrolyzed Silk Amino Acids: This ingredient is not vegan. They are chemically altered from silk and taken from killed silkworms. They are now widely used in cosmetics, hair care, skin conditioner together with anti-static agent. Amino Acids for Skin Amino acids are the building blocks of both peptides and proteins, and each has a specific role in skincare.…

Emollient oil derived from the safflower (Carthamus tinctorius) plant, similar to all non-fragrant plant oils. Safflower seed oil contains beneficial fatty acids, primarily linolenic acid, that can help diminish signs and occurrence of dry skin

What is Moringa Oil? Moringa oil is derived from the seeds of Moringa Oleifera, a small tree native to the Himalayan mountains. Virtually all parts of the moringa tree, including its seeds, roots, bark, flowers, and leaves, can be used for nutritional, industrial, or medicinal purposes. For this reason, it’s sometimes referred to as “the miracle tree.” It’s also called…

One of the active, skin-soothing components of licorice extract. HistorySoothes stomach painImproves respiratory systemReduces stressAssists cancer treatmentProtects skin and teethDosage and formsSide effects Overview of licorice root Licorice root, also known as sweet root, is used mostly as a sweetener in candies and beverages. People have also used licorice root for centuries for its medicinal benefits. The medical community is…

An ingredient manufactured by the brand Sederma under the trade name MATRIXYL synthe’6. The only research so far showing this ingredient’s benefit comes from the brand. That research followed 25 women between the ages of 42 to 70 years old who had forehead lines and crow’s feet. After two months, the women reported a decrease in signs of aging of…

Millet Nutritional Value of Millet Health Benefits of Millet Uses of Millet Side-Effects & Allergies of Millet Cultivation of Millet The health benefits of millets are such that it treats coronary artery disorder, helps in weight loss, reduces the risk of colon cancer, helps to decrease high blood pressure, helps in preventing Celiac disease, controls diabetes, a good source of antioxidants, helps in slowing down…

More than 80 million people suffer from chronic halitosis or bad breath. In most cases, it originates from the gums and tongue. Bad breath can be very embarrassing, but it is a common condition and there are numerous ways to prevent it. Following these tips can help you fight bad breath as well as keep your mouth healthy on a…

Wheatgrass is the latest ingredient to enter into the limelight when it comes to the natural health world. It can now be seen everywhere from juices to healthy food available in all retail stores. Wheatgrass is prepared from the freshly sprouted leaves of the common wheat plant, Triticum aestivum. It can be grown and prepared at home or purchased in juice,…

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uPShKjauEug Brown rice is “unpolished” white rice. Brown rice retains unsaturated fatty acids, protein, minerals, vitamins, and starch that are usually removed during polishing. It is eaten as food and taken as medicine. Brown rice is used for diarrhea, upset stomach and other stomach problems, fluid retention, intestinal worms, yellowed skin (jaundice), thiamine deficiency (beriberi), burns, nosebleed, fever, vomiting blood, swelling (inflammation), paralysis, hemorrhoids, and psoriasis and other skin ailments. It is also used as an appetite stimulant,…

What is Isomaltulose? Isomaltulose, also called palatinose, is a simple carbohydrate, a disaccharide, which is, like sucrose, composed of glucose and fructose, but with a stronger alpha-1,6 glycosidic bond between them, which makes it slowly digestible. Palatinose™ a perfect free-flowing powder for drinks & blends. Thanks to its low hygroscopicity, PalatinoseTM is a free-flowing powder that is perfect in powder drinks and blends. It even shows reduced water absorption…

Cetearyl Olivate is the ester of Cetearyl alcohol and the fatty acids derived from olive oil. This non-ionic oil combines the properties of olive oil with other naturally derived ingredients making it a mild emulsifier. Cetearyl Olivate facilitates the retention of moisture in the skin and increases active ingredient's resistance to water and sweat. It helps soften the skin and…

Synthetic ester that functions as an emollient skin-softening agent. This occurs naturally in cocoa oil and lavender oil. Isononyl Isononanoate is a skin-conditioning emollient that leaves a silky feeling on the skin The cosmetic ingredient review expert planner has determined that isononyl isononanoate is safe in its current use and concentration in cosmetic products. Isononyl isononanoate is a synthetic ingredient used in…

Lutein is a major carotenoid in soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.] seed, and has been shown to be beneficial for eye health in humans. The development of soybeans high in lutein is a goal of some breeding programs. Little is known about how different growing environments affect lutein content. Lutein and zeaxanthin: Eye and vision benefits Good nutrition is important…

Argan oil. Olive oil. Jojoba oil – these are the familiar all-natural oils, the ones you can spot in any beauty cupboard. But what about Marula oil? Have you ever even heard of it? Marula is a miraculous oil extracted from the nut inside Marula fruit – an African native. In other words, this oil is the heart and soul…

Is Calendula good for your skin? Calendula extract together with the petals is scientifically tested to provide long-lasting, continuous supply and discomfort reducing compounds for the skin. Each individual Calendula petal contains five compounds—Oleanic Acid, Lupeol, Quercetin, α Amyrin, and β Amyrin. These efficacious compounds have been studied and are known to provide antioxidant protection, soothe skin and reduce discomfort…

Ku Shen (sophora flavescens) is a root with powerful effects on cancer, metabolic diseases, neurological disorders and more. In this post, we will discuss the benefits of Ku Shen, its caveats, and where to buy Ku Shen. Contents: Basics Of Sophora flavescensBenefits Of Sophora flavescensMy Experience With Ku ShenWhere To Buy Ku ShenKu Shen SynergiesCaveatsMechanism Of ActionMore Research Basics Of Sophora…

What is paraffin wax? Paraffin wax is a white or colorless soft, solid wax. It’s made from saturated hydrocarbons. It’s often used in skin-softening salon and spa treatments on the hands, cuticles, and feet because it’s colorless, tasteless, and odorless. It can also be used to provide pain relief to sore joints and muscles. Paraffin wax has many other uses,…

A synthetic peptide that is based around octapeptide-3, a peptide complex composed of the amino acids aspartic acid, glutamic acid, glutamine, and methionine. In Chinese, it is known as 乙酰基八肽-3. Especially good when it is used in eye cream. It helps to stop the contraction and slow down the process of wrinkles. It tightens the skin and has an outstanding…

Dioctyldodecyl dimer dilinoleate is a kind of emollient that aid in skin conditioning. It is not used for the enhancing of the fragrance or for any flavoring usage. The impurities in this ingredient is anticipated to be 0.1% to 0.5% dilinoleic acid and octyldodecanol. In terms of ultraviolet absorption, 10% in 90% hexane did not absorb the UVA or UVB…

Many of us love a good facial oil treat which explains our obsession with rosehip seed oil and Moroccan argan oil. However, there is a great do-it-all facial oil called prickly pear seed oil with excellent moisturizing properties. It is derived from a cactus called Opuntia Ficus Indica, used in herbal supplements for weight loss. Pricky pear oil, also known as barbary…

Acetyl tetrapeptide-5 is a known humectant or hydroscopic moisturizer which helps reduce eye puffiness, improve skin elasticity and overall smoothness. Acetyl Tetrapeptide-5 is the product obtained by the acetylation of Tetrapeptide-5. It's most often found in eye creams.

UsesBenefitsSide effects and precautionsPropylene glycolSummary Butylene glycol is a chemical ingredient used in self-care products like: shampooconditionerlotionanti-aging and hydrating serumssheet maskscosmeticssunscreen Butylene glycol is included in formulas for these types of products because it adds moisture and conditions hair and skin. It also works as a solvent, meaning it keeps other ingredients, dyes, and pigments from clumping up inside of…

LaxativeHeart healthWeight lossDiabetesDosageSide effectsWhere to find it If you buy something through a link on this page, we may earn a small commission. How this works. What is Psyllium? Psyllium is a form of fiber made from the husks of the Plantago ovata plant’s seeds. It sometimes goes by the name ispaghula. It’s most commonly known as a laxative. However, research shows that taking psyllium…

1. Contains Essential Nutrients Argan oil is primarily comprised of fatty acids and a variety of phenolic compounds. The majority of the fat content of argan oil comes from oleic and linoleic acid. Approximately 29–36% of the fatty acid content of argan oil comes from linoleic acid, or omega-6, making it a good source of this essential nutrient (1). Oleic acid,…

Traditional Chinese and oriental folk medicine providers have used Dendrobium orchid stems, known as Shi Hu, for centuries to treat a range of diseases associated with oxidative stress. A study published early in 2018 suggests that natural compounds called stilbenoids from the orchid species Dendrobium officinal and Dendrobium Nobile offer promising anti-melanogenic and anti-oxidative effects, potentially making them useful in skincare products.…

8 Benefits and Uses of Witch Hazel If you buy something through a link on this page, we may earn a small commission. How this works. Witch hazel is a plant with powerful medicinal properties that can be used in a variety of ways. There are many species of witch hazel, but Hamamelis virginiana -- a type of shrub native to North America…

Ceratonia Siliqua is a fruit extract from the carob The carob tree pods (Ceratonia siliqua), is an excellent source of natural antioxidants and hence used in skincare formulations meant for skin repairing and protection. Improve Skin Hyper Pigmentation Skin hyperpigmentation is a condition initiated by the overproduction of melanin existing in the melanocytes. Melanin pigment is responsible for the colour of skin in humans.…

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B5pc0NFQCuU How Niacinamide Helps Skin Niacinamide is a skincare ingredient worthy of your attention and time, your skin will love you for using niacinamide. Niacinamide stand out from the rest of the ingredients such as the retinol, vitamin C, it provides versatility for almost all kinds of skincare solutions. Our conclusions of ingredients are based on many published researches that…

Aloe vera is also known as aloe barbadensis. The aloe we now use on skincare comes from the aloe vera plant, one of the members belonging to the cactus family. Aloe vera thrives in dry climate, like many other cacti and succulents. When broken open, the spiny, pointed leaves secrete a clear gel, which can be applied directly onto the…

It is used for skin conditioning. Yeast rice powder has been used in China for centuries as both a food and as a medicinal substance. It is made by fermenting a type of yeast called Monascus purpureus over red rice. In Chinese medicine, Monascus purpureus is used to promote blood circulation, soothe upset stomach, and invigorate the function of the…

Helianthus annuus, the common sunflower, is a large annual forb of the genus Helianthus grown as a crop for its edible oil and edible fruits. This sunflower species is also used as wild bird food, as livestock forage (as a meal or a silage plant), in some industrial applications, and as an ornamental in domestic gardens. The plant was first domesticated in the Americas. Wild Helianthus annuus is a widely…

Lychee have become a rising star in recent years in the anti-aging skincare solution circle. It is rich in antioxidants, helps to strengthen the skin's defense, improves hydration and reduces the effects of the stress. In China, tea made from the pericarp (or outer shell) of the lychee fruit is often used as a remedy for skin rashes. Native to…

Distribution It was distributed in Asia [Armenia, Azerbaijan, Russian Federation, China, Japan, Korea, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, Nepal, Cyprus; Turkey, Iraq, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Afghanistan, Pakistan, Iran, Palestine], Europe [Russian Federation-European part, Belarus, Moldova, Ukraine, Austria, Czech Republic, Germany, Hungary, Poland, Slovakia, Switzerland, Albania, Bulgaria, Croatia, Greece, Italy; Macedonia, Romania, Serbia, Slovenia], Africa [Morocco]; Australasia [Zealand]; Northern America [Canada,…

A close up of the Far-Eastern medicinal plant (Schisandra chinensis) with berries. Also known as the “five flavour fruit”, Schisandra is documented in early Chinese medical texts as a superior herb, capable of promoting overall well-being and enhancing bodily vitality. As far back as 2697 BCE, Schisandra was classified as superior by Pen-Tsao in the classic Yellow Emperor's Study of…

Mung beans (Vigna radiata) are small, green beans that belong to the legume family. They have been cultivated since ancient times. While native to India, mung beans later spread to China and various parts of Southeast Asia. These beans have a slightly sweet taste and are sold fresh, as sprouts or as dried beans. They aren’t as popular in the…

Burdock Root Arctium Lappa is also known as burdock root. It is a vegetable that’s native to northern Asia and Europe, though it now grows in the United States, too. The deep roots of the burdock plant are very long and either brown or nearly black on the outside. Burdock root has been used for centuries in holistic medicine to…

If you’re a fan of Korean skincare (aka K-beauty), you’ve probably heard about the ingredient Centella Asiatica. Known by a variety of names, including Brahmi, Asiatic pennywort, tiger grass, and Gotu kola, this plant extract is hailed as a hydrating skin-saver.  Centella Asiatica is included in numerous moisturizers from South Korean brands, often labeled “cica creams,” and, not surprisingly, it's also garnering interest…

Plant extract that has skin-soothing properties. In addition, licorice root may be effective in improving the look of an uneven skin tone.  One of its components, known as glabridin, is a potent antioxidant and skin-soothing ingredient, which is why licorice often shows up in products meant for sensitive, reddened skin. Top 4 Skin Benefits of Licorice Root Extract Growing up,…

Wednesday 24 June 2015 "A mushroom used for centuries in Chinese medicine reduces weight gain in animals," BBC News reports. A supplement from the Ganoderma Lucidum mushroom (more commonly known as "reishi") slowed the pace of weight gain by apparently altering bacteria inside the digestive system of mice. In this study, the researchers aimed to see if reishi was effective…

Beetroots, commonly known as beets, are a popular root vegetable used in many cuisines around the world. Beets are packed with essential vitamins, minerals and plant compounds, some of which have medicinal properties. What's more, they are delicious and easy to add to your diet. This article lists 9 health benefits of beets, all supported by science. 1. Many Nutrients…

You may have heard that fiber is good for us and that we generally need more of it, but do you really know what it is? Fiber is a carbohydrate but with an interesting twist. Unlike other carbohydrates such as sugars or starches, fiber does not get digested and absorbed in the traditional sense. Fibers are long chains of carbohydrates…

Garcinia Cambogia vs Raspberry Ketones Known as "The Holy Grail of Weight Loss", this recent breakthrough in natural weight loss is made from an exotic fruit called Tamarind (also known as Brindle Berry) that is naturally rich in Hydroxycitric acid (HCA), an active ingredient clinically proven to burn fat and suppress appetite. This supplement works to shed the kilos by…

So many of us work hard every day and feel like we can barely get through it without needing some sort of energy boost. We tend to turn to sugar for a quick pick-me-up, but that’s really doing more harm than good. Many people don’t realize that the sluggish and even bloated feeling we get during the day can be the…

What It IsWeight LossHow It WorksOther BenefitsSide EffectsDosageBottom Line If you buy something through a link on this page, we may earn a small commission. How this works. Garcinia cambogia is a popular weight loss supplement. It is derived from a fruit of the same name, also called Garcinia gummi-gutta or Malabar tamarind. The peel of the fruit contains high amounts of hydroxycitric…

Spirulina is among the world’s most popular supplements. It is loaded with various nutrients and antioxidants that may benefit your body and brain. Here are 10 evidence-based health benefits of spirulina. 1. Spirulina Is Extremely High in Many Nutrients Spirulina is an organism that grows in both fresh and saltwater. It is a type of cyanobacteria, which is a family…

July 23, 2019 Believe it or not, even among people who feel they eat pretty healthy, most people only take 3 bowel movements (on average) per week! That is not the picture of health — any doctor will tell you that you should be having a healthy bowel movement every single day... at a minimum!  We may be healthy in other aspects…

Diet-wise, I was good yesterday. I had a scrambled egg with salsa for breakfast; spinach salad with grilled chicken for lunch; a handful of almonds for a snack; a small piece of salmon, broccoli, and brown rice for dinner; and fruit for dessert. I say “good” because I like to limit my carbohydrates to one meal a day—dinner, in this…

If you are suffering from poor digestion, natural fruit juices can help. Some tropical fruits, like pineapples, kiwifruit, and papayas, have super enzymes that help the digestive system do its job. And although these foods actually help your body digest food, herbs like peppermint and dandelion root kickstart your liver and gallbladder and increase the flow of the bile so…

Fan Hong Hua (Saffron) is effective for weight loss. It has the capacity to suppress the appetite and lower cravings for fattening foods. It also increases the quantity of hormone serotonin within the brain which helps avoid overeating. The linolenic and linoleic acids in safflower seed oil might help prevent "hardening of the arteries," lower cholesterol and reduce the risk…

Where It Comes From Psyllium fiber comes from the outer coating, or “husk”, of the psyllium plant’s seeds. The psyllium husk is a naturally occurring source of soluble fiber. What It Does Psyllium fiber is a source of soluble fiber and has multiple health benefits. Psyllium fiber forms a sticky gel that acts like a sponge to absorb some toxins,…

D-calcium pantothenate is a form of pantothenic acid or vitamin B5. Found in plants and animal tissues as well as cereal grains, eggs legumes, and milk. Most known for protecting cells against peroxidative damage by increasing the level of glutathione--an important compound aiding in the oxidation-reduction of cells.  Understanding D-calcium pantothenate and the benefits it provides is essentially a study…

What Is Konjac? Side effectsBenefitsHow to use konjacKonjac risks and precautionsTakeaway Overview Konjac, also known as glucomannan, is an herb that grows in parts of Asia. It’s known for its starchy corm, a tuber-like part of the stem that grows underground. The corm is used to make a rich source of soluble dietary fiber. Konjac is used as a gelatin…

Table of Contents IntroductionRecommended IntakesSources of Vitamin AVitamin A Intakes and StatusVitamin A DeficiencyGroups at Risk of Vitamin A InadequacyVitamin A and HealthHealth Risks from Excessive Vitamin AInteractions with MedicationsVitamin A and Healthful DietsReferencesDisclaimer Introduction Vitamin A is the name of a group of fat-soluble retinoids, including retinol, retinal, and retinyl esters. Vitamin A is involved in immune function, vision,…

Fucus vesiculosus extract, also known as bladderwrack, is a type of brown algae (seaweed) that is edible. Its nutrient profile benefits the body when consumed, but it can also benefit the skin when applied topically. One of the more notable topical benefits is how the treasure trove of antioxidants in brown algae can help defend the skin’s surface from daily exposure…

Pectin, a type of fiber in the cell walls of plants, helps give plants their structure. Apple pectin is extracted from apples, which are some of the richest sources of fiber. Roughly 15–20% of the pulp of this fruit is comprised of pectin. Pectin is also found in the peels of citrus fruits, as well as quinces, cherries, plums, and…

Why we need calciumDietary sourcesHow much calcium?Calcium deficiencySupplementationRisks of supplementsTakeaway Calcium is a nutrient that all living organisms need, including humans. It is the most abundant mineral in the body, and it is vital for bone health. Humans need calcium to build and maintain strong bones, and 99% of the body’s calcium is in the bones and teeth. It is also necessary…

Fibruline. chicory inulin is one soluble dietary fiber that is extracted from the chicory roots using natural processes. It's a naturally-sourced food ingredient. Fibruline® Instant is an easy to disperse fine granulated white powder, giving mouthfeel to a wide range of food applications. Belonging to the fructan group, inulin is a non-digestible oligosaccharide built up of fructose units with B2-1…

Most of us look at health in terms of a balanced diet and regular exercise. Of course these things are greatly important, but what about the products we are using on our bodies? Our skin is our largest organ and will absorb almost everything you put onto it. The average person lathers and sprays 10 different beauty products onto their…

(Credit: Lab Series / Facebook) Hands up if you heard how men’s definition of skincare stops at washing their face with shower soap (the thought alone makes us cringe). The good news is, skincare for men is becoming a more prevalent topic these days and some men actually take an interest and effort in tailoring a skincare routine they enjoy!…