Bye Bye Stretch Marks

As the temps warm up, you'll want to show more skin but there's this one thing that keeps you a little self conscious about going bare... stretch marks!

There is an all natural approach for reducing the appearance of stretch marks, so you CAN kiss those tiger stripes goodbye. However, you must be committed for the long haul. Depending upon the cause of your stretch marks, i.e. child birth or sudden, drastic weight loss then it may take a bit longer than say having acquired stretch marks over time.

Lean in, because here's where it gets good... you won't have to come out of a wad of cash or get them surgically removed (unless you're into that sorta thing... no judgement, but it doesn't guarantee stretch marks will be fully gone, so here's a less expensive option). However if you try some of these solutions while pregnant, then you'll have greater chances of reducing the appearance of stretch marks as a pose to starting after having already given birth. Here are some quick remedies:

Shea Butter - absorbs into the skin and pores helping to 
deeply moisturize skin

Cocoa Butter - moisturizes skin and penetrates both the upper and second layer of the skin. FYI: human body has three skin layers, cocoa butter helps to penetrate more deeply

Aloe Vera - contains tons of plant collagen, which hydrates skin naturally

Vitamin E - an antioxidant that protects skin from free radicals, wrinkles and sagging. Free radicals breaks down collagen and increases the appearance of stretch marks

Coconut Oil - loaded with fatty acids, which restores collagen to the skin

Olive Oil - rich in antioxidants and vitamin E

Exfoliate (sugar scrubs, loofa or dry brushing) - helps 
circulate the lymphatic system and removes dead skin

Exercise - excellent way to tighten and tone skin

Although results may vary, usually you'll begin to notice a difference in about four weeks. If it takes longer for you, stick with it because one day you'll look up, and notice they've finally faded. When that day comes you'll feel so victorious that it'll feel like you've conquered Mount Everest.

Remember to drink plenty of water, as water is your skin's best friend, providing moisture to the skin from the inside out. It'll give your skin the glow that no cosmetic can fake.

Get started now, so you can have silky smooth skin by this spring and summer.

Herb Crush: Neem Benefits

Photo Credit: Prabhupuducherry

Every now and again, I'll write a personal profile on one of the ingredients used in our products. Today's herbal star is... neem.

This powerhouse herb is one of the core herbs used in Ayurvedic medicine, and has become a household favorite among many herbalists and "natural" companies.

Neem is a tree that grows in India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Jamaica, Honduras, Guatemelo, Mexico, China, Hawaii, Puerto Rico and throughout Africa.  It belongs to the Maliaceae family and its scientific name is Azadiracta indica, which looks similar to the Chinaberry plant.

Neem can be taken both externally and internally, but read labels to determine which usage is best, or seek a qualified natural health professional if in doubt. Neem is great for treating problem skin thanks to its anifungal, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antiseptic and antiviral properties (I know... a lot of anti's, huh). Translation, neem helps to cleanse and improves the function of the immune-system. Here's a list of neem benefits:

Neem Oil: (external use, usually)
Strengthens nails
evens skin tone
clears skin ailments (eczema, psoriasis, acne, boils, rosacea and dryness)
stimulates hair growth
treats dandruff 
treats chicken pox
treats warts
heals ringworm
improves oral health
heals poison ivy

Neem Leaves: (internal use, usually) 
regulates diabetes
enhances blood circulation (neem leaves helps regulate blood circulation)
treats gum disease
treats ulcers
improves liver function
birth control (if you are pregnant or attempting to become pregnant do not take neem)
HIV/AIDS (seek a qualified professional if seeking natural treatment using neem)
treats pink eye
treats pesticide/insecticide
anti-cancer (seek a qualified professional if seeking natural treatment using neem)


Alright, I'm gonna stop here because listing all of neem's great qualities can go on and on. 

Many natural health companies use neem as the base ingredient in toothpaste; because of its antibacterial and antiseptic properties. I've tried quite a few natural toothpaste brands, but here's a link to my favorite neem toothpaste by Himalaya.

As you see above, neem helps remedy some serious ailments; but please, please, please seek a qualified natural health professional to guide you as to how best to use. Depending on the ailment you're treating would determine the part of the plant you'd need to use. For instance, you may need to use the leaves, bark or stem in either powder, oil, leaf form or another method. As noted above in most instances the oil form is usually used externally, as the leaves are used internally in most cases. 

Neem can be used in a variety of ways for an inumerable amount of ailments. This is a brief intro into the world of neem, by all means please keep researching on your own.

For best results, seek a health care professional especially when using for babies and children.  Neem is an all natural product and there are no known side effects for using. It is safe for babies and children, but if there are any reactions discontinue use.