It seems we have so many things lying around the house these days. We are always being tempted to buy some new product that promises to be the next big thing- from the new all-purpose cleaner that promises not to leaves streaks on our mirrors to the new toner that promises to shrink all our pores. But what if we could cut down this list by using a natural product or ingredient we may already have laying around the house? Here are 4 of our favourite bathroom essentials to get you started:
Coconut oil
What is it conventionally used for?
This is an oil high in monounsaturated fat which makes it easy for the body to break down and use as fuel. This oil holds up well to medium heat which makes it a popular cooking oil.Why stock it?
- Makeup remover: Warm the coconut oil in your hands and then apply in a circular motion to your face at the end of the day to easily remove the day’s make-up. Just take a cloth dampened with warm water and wipe away all evidence.
- Mild sunscreen: Coconut oil has been used for thousands of years as a natural sunblock. It is similar to an SPF of between 4-10. Unlike conventional sunblock it won’t block vitamin D synthesis.
Also good for:
- Moisturizer
- Essential oil carrier
- Oil pulling
Raw Apple Cider Vinegar
What is it conventionally used for?
Apple cider vinegar (ACV) is a naturally fermented vinegar made by taking apple cider and adding bacteria and yeast. The acetic acid produced is said to have many health benefits making is a popular choice in many recipes, including salad dressing.Why stock it?
- Facial Toner: Mix one part ACV with 3 parts water for an amazing facial toner that will naturally restore the skin to an optimal pH level. Just apply with a cotton swap at the end of the day after cleansing.
- Hair Rinse: Mix one part acv with three parts water and pour over hair at the end of a shower for shiny and healthy locks.
Also good for:
- Mouthwash
- All Purpose Cleaner
Activated Charcoal
What is it conventionally used for?
Activated charcoal is a fine, black, odourless and tasteless powder that is highly absorbent to particles of various compositions. It has been used since ancient times to cure a variety of ailments including poisoning. It was recently rediscovered as a wonderful oral agent to treat most overdoses and toxins.Why stock it?
- Teeth whitening: Use a wet toothbrush and activated charcoal to brush teeth every couple days and rinsing thoroughly. This may help visibly whiten teeth as the charcoal absorbs debris that cause stains and spots on the teeth.
- Bug bites: Mix 1/2 teaspoon charcoal with 1 teaspoon of coconut oil and apply to bug bites (such as mosquito or spider bites). The charcoal will draw toxins out of the area and decrease itching, allowing the wound to heal faster.
Also good for:
- Face mask
- Hangover
Peppermint oil
What is it conventionally used for?
The peppermint plant is a hybrid of watermint and spearmint. Frequently used in toothpaste and chewing gum for oral hygiene, peppermint also helps alleviate occasional stomach upset and promotes healthy respiratory function.Why stock it?
- Homemade toothpaste: Mix equal parts coconut oil and baking soda along with a few drops of peppermint oil (until desired taste) for an easy, affordable, toxin free homemade toothpaste.
- Sunburn relief: Mix a couple of drops with coconut oil and rub onto a mild sunburn. Peppermint is very cooling and contains menthol which is a mild numbing agent that will help soothe the burn. It is also anti-viral and will help prevent any infection of the area.
Also good for:
- Headaches
- Acne treatment
Jasmine Northfield is a Certified Nutritional Practitioner at Village Juicery. In the past, she had struggled with her own personal health and began seeking out answers to her problems. Through her research she became interested in learning more about the inner workings of the body and their connection to nutrition, supplementation, and the mind/body/spirit connection. Today she strives to help clients find easy but small changes in their lifestyle that can majorly affect their overall health.
Sources:
- http://medical-dictionary.thefreedictionary.com/activated+charcoal
- https://doterra.com/US/en/p/peppermint-oil