Not only do I rub mud on my face, but I brush my teeth with it and drink it too. Sounds crazy? I’m talking about bentonite clay! Bentonite clay is derived from volcanic ash and is often used for detoxifying the body. People first discovered it in Montmorillon, France, so it’s also called montmorillonite clay. Bentonite is used topically to soothe skin issues like dermatitis and poison ivy. However, its toxin-binding abilities also make it a go-to remedy for cleansing and overall wellness.  What is a Bentonite Detox Used For? I love bentonite in detox baths, but sometimes I also…

Formally known as camellia sinensis, green tea is a great way to perk up tired skin. Camellia sinensis leaf extract is gaining popularity in toners, cleansers, and hydrating serums. While store-bought brands may give you that dewy look, I’m not a fan of some of the ingredients. Toxic parabens and retinol and tongue twisters like butylene glycol and ethylhexylglycerin to name a few. Some green tea serums add ingredients like panthenol, squalane, allantoin, and peptides. These have their benefits but can be hard to source outside of a lab. This green tea serum uses simple, natural ingredients for an easy…

 I have fond memories of making my homemade applesauce recipe with the kids every year. We no longer live in an area with apple trees (too hot down here!) but I still love making my own. Unlike some canning adventures, I feel like homemade applesauce is well worth the effort. Plus it makes the house smell great! A word of caution though … your family will never want to eat store-bought applesauce again. Mine won’t! Easy Recipe For the Best Applesauce There’s truly no comparison between homemade and watery, store-bought applesauce. The apple flavor from homemade is so much better.…

Coconut oil pulling has gained mainstream attention in the news and on fashion blogs in recent years. I’ve been using this Ayurvedic oral health practice off and on for years, and I’ve seen noticeable effects. It was one of the tools I used to remineralize my teeth and reverse tooth decay. Although it’s somewhat controversial, oil pulling has existed for thousands of years. The practice not only offers health benefits for our mouths, but in caring for our mouths, we’re caring for our bodies. Oral health goes beyond the health of our teeth and gums. (Listen to this amazing podcast…

I often keep fresh ginger around in case of upset stomachs (it can be a lifesaver during early pregnancy!). Ginger root also adds a tasty flavor to drinks, gingerbread, and even iced tea. On its own it can be a little spicy, but ginger syrup is a flavorful way to add a little sweetness to beverages and dishes. This warming herb has tons of health benefits and boosts circulation and immunity. It’s perfect (and tasty!) for cooler weather. Ginger Simple Syrup The traditional recipe for ginger syrup uses fresh ginger root and a sweetener, like brown sugar or organic cane…

This time of year everyone is going nuts over pumpkin pie spice. While it is delicious in everything from pumpkin pie to homemade lattes, apple pie spice is another fall favorite. With its intense flavor profile, it’s the perfect addition to your spice cabinet. What is Apple Pie Spice? This yummy blend of aromatic spices is often used in the cooler months to flavor apple pie and other apple dishes. It’s very similar to pumpkin pie spice, but my version omits the ground cloves and instead adds cardamom. Some people don’t like the flavor of cardamom, so it can be…

Bentonite clay is a healing clay derived from volcanic ash. Since it was first discovered in Montmorillon, France, it’s also called montmorillonite clay. I love bentonite clay for external uses like facial masks and as a natural remedy for poison ivy, dermatitis, and diaper rash. However, using bentonite clay internally is more controversial.  Here are my thoughts on bentonite clay for internal use. Health Benefits of Bentonite Clay When Used Internally There are two main types of bentonite clay: sodium bentonite and calcium bentonite. Sodium bentonite clay is very absorbent. It’s used for farming and industry because of its ability…

I’ve been experimenting with homemade makeup for years, from DIY concealer and highlighter to lip balm to mascara. I have a powder blush I love that works well, but I’ve gotten requests for a cream blush option. After nailing a liquid foundation recipe, I decided to work on a creamy formula blush too. You can customize this cream blush to your skin tone for a buildable tint. If you have warmer undertones, then use a little more cocoa powder or warmer-toned pigments. I’ve included instructions for the pigment amounts I use, but you can tweak it to your preferences. Cream…

It’s finally the season for all things pumpkin. Pumpkin pie, pumpkin bread, pumpkin lattes, and more are everywhere this time of year. Some of us love it and some of us hate it… but I’m totally in the love it camp! This made-from-scratch pumpkin soup recipe is a quick, filling, veggie-packed fall meal. Bonus… in a pinch, I can make this soup entirely from ingredients in my pantry! Pumpkin soup has all of the flavors of fall in a bowl. Healthy Pumpkin Soup I’m not sure pumpkin soup could be unhealthy, since pumpkin itself is loaded with fiber, beta-carotene, vitamin…

Many years ago, I spent a few weeks vacationing in Europe. I hiked, explored beautiful towns, tried local foods, and indulged in way too much of an Italian favorite: Nutella. I’d eat Nutella for breakfast and dessert, and it was a delicious, chocolatey treat. When I got home, I’d occasionally buy a jar of Nutella to enjoy. But I wondered, is Nutella healthy? As I learned more about the ingredients, I realized it wasn’t a good option. I created my own recipe for homemade Nutella, but that often takes more time than I have. I was determined to find a…