Mixology || Orange and Vanilla Honey Shampoo

Do you want softer, easier to detangle hair after a wash?  Then check out this honey-based recipe.

Recipe Source

Ingredients:
1/2 cup castile soap
3/4 cup raw honey
1/4 cup African black soap (or just more castile soap)
1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
1 tsp sweet orange essential oil
1 tsp vanilla essential oil

Instructions:
Mix together thoroughly, wet hair, massage mixture into hair, then rinse out completely.

10 Household Uses for Lemons

Did you know lemons have household uses beyond cleaning?  Here are just a few of those uses:

- derust brass
- revitalize paintbrushes
- despeckle glass
- polish wood furniture

For more, check out this slideshow on Bobvila.com.

Mixology || Natural Blackhead-Busting Blackout Mask

This recipe is from bodyunburden.com blog.  For more details and more DIY recipes, check out the blog.

Ingredients:
2 capsule of activated charcoal
1/2 tsp of bentonite clay
2 tsp of water

Instructions:
Mix (using a plastic or wooden spoon only) all the ingredients together into a smooth paste, and spot test the mask on your cheek or underside of your wrist.  Wash face with a mild cleanser and pat partially dry.  Apply the mask evenly avoiding the delicate skin around the eyes and lips, and let sit until dry (~7-10 minutes).  As the mask dries, it feels tight on the skin, which can sometimes feel a little itchy.  (If you start to feel uncomfortable, wash the mask off.)  After the mask dries, wash it off, pat face gently with a clean towel, and let the skin breath or apply a mild all-natural moisturizer.

Mixology || Lola Zabeth's Mud Wash Recipe

Are you interested in making your own mud wash?

Ingredients:
3 tbs bentonite clay powder
1 tbs organic powdered honey
1 tbs organic slippery elm powder
3 ozs aloe vera juice

Instructions:
1. Mix the bentonite clay, powdered honey and slippery elm powder in a bowl.
2. Funnel the mixture into a bottle. Pour the aloe vera juice into the bottle. Shake well. The consistency is perfect–loose enough the spread easily without being drippy and messy.

For the full tutorial and/or more details, check out Lola's blog.

Natural Remedy for Menstrual Cramps - Blackstrap Molasses

Do you get really bad menstrual cramps?  Are you tired of relying on medication for the pain?  In the following video, Fran shares a natural remedy for menstrual cramps using blackstrap molasses:

Mixology || A More Natural Bug Spray Recipe

Do you want an alternative to the chemical-based bug sprays out there?  Are you interested in making a more natural bug spray?

Recipe Source

Ingredients:

- ½ cup distilled water
- 1 tbsp alcohol
- 6-10 drops essential oil: use any of these alone or any combination – lemongrass, any mint, lavender, citronella, eucalyptus, tea tree, neem, geranium, and litsea cubeba. 

Instructions:
Pour the alcohol into the spray bottle. Add the essential oils and shake well. Add water, leaving enough room at the top so it will mix when you shake it. If you use a large spray bottle, ingredients can be doubled or tripled.

For more DIY Natural Recipes, check out: DIYNatural Blog

Mixology || Coconut Milk Shampoo

Liquid castile soap is generally made from olive oil (and/or other oils) and water. Though some naturals have shied away from it with all the talk of pH, the reality is that other naturals have faired fine using it in their shampoo recipes. If you are interested in giving liquid castile soap a try, the following mixture involves the addition of organic coconut milk (for dilution and additional lathering), distilled water (for further dilution), and safflower oil (for moisture).

Ingredients: 
1/4 cup liquid castile soap
3 tbsp organic coconut milk
1 tsp distilled water
1 tsp safflower oil (add more if you desire)

Instructions:
1. Mix all the ingredients together in a bottle. Shake the bottle well before use.
2. Save the remainder in a closed bottle for future use (up to a few weeks).
3. Follow up with an apple cider vinegar rinse (if necessary) for pH balance.

Mixology, Skin Care || Elbow Softener

Are your elbows extra dry and hard this winter? Here is a natural homemade recipe for an elbow softener:

Ingredients
4 tbsp olive oil
juice of 1 lemon
1 tbsp honey

Instructions
Pour ingredients in sterilized jar, cover and shake well. Shake well before each use. Massage a little into each elbow for a few minutes. Rinse off, pat dry, and moisturize. (Use this recipe twice daily and your skin will be soft within one week. After that, use weekly.)

FOR MORE: 250 Bath Body Recipes

Mixology || Organic Lip Balm and Lip Scrub Set

Makes a great Holiday gift set!

Recipe originator: Fran (HeyFranHey on Youtube)

LIP BALM ...
Ingredients (all organic):
cocoa butter
shea butter
castor oil
beeswax
extra virgin coconut oil

LIP SCRUB ...

Ingredients (all organic):

dark brown sugar

jojoba oil

Instructions: See the video below ...

Mixology || Baking Soda and Avocado Shampoo Recipe for Dry Hair

Looking for a simple, homemade natural shampoo that is cleansing but non-drying?  Check out this recipe:

Ingredients:
avocado
baking soda
distilled water

Directions:

1. Skin an avocado, remove the pit and mash it in a bowl;
2. Add 2 teaspoons of baking soda;
3. Add 1/4 cup of hot distilled water; and
4. Mix the ingredients into a paste and massage the homemade moisturizing shampoo into your hair and scalp.
5. (Optional) You may or may not want to follow up with an apple cider vinegar rinse for pH balance.

Remember to refrigerate the unused mixture. To customize this or any of the other recipes, add a few drops of essential oil for a pleasant scent. Popular oils include lavender, sandalwood, jasmine and rosemary.

For more moisturizing shampoos, check out Suite101: Shampoo Recipes for Dry Hair and Scalp.

REVIEW #16: Homemade Deodorant - Baking Soda, Corn Starch, and Coconut Oil

Disclaimer: If you are pregnant or lactating, or have a health condition, please consult with your doctor before using an essential oil.

Homemade deodorant (on the right).

Purpose: The baking soda and cornstarch are intended to diminish the moist environment (created from our sweat) that becomes a breeding ground for odor-inducing bacteria.  The coconut oil is intended to aid in the application process and also combat the skin drying/irritation effects of the baking soda.  The addition of an essential oil is intended to deodorize any odor that does form.

VIDEO TUTORIAL for Homemade Deodorant

Ingredients: 

For trial #1 - This created an unscented stick deodorant.

1 part baking soda, 1 part cornstarch, 1 part coconut oil.  

For trial #2 - This created a scented creamy deodorant.

1 part baking soda, 1 part cornstarch, ~2 parts coconut oil, several drops of tea tree essential oil.  

Number of trials: Almost daily over the course of about five months.

How I used it:

Applied to armpit daily after morning shower.

_____________

THE REVIEW:

Trial #1:

My first trial of this homemade deodorant was somewhat disappointing.  As the day progressed, the unscented "stick" version of this mixture caked in my armpits and fell off in chunks, many times slipping through my sleeve and onto the ground.  Additionally, as I sweated, the moisture would mix with the deodorant and leave "oil-like" stains on the armpit areas of my shirts.  Even with these application annoyances, the homemade deodorant was not effective against my armpit odor.

Trial #2:   

I was actually very pleased with my second trial of this mixture.  The scented "cream" version of this homemade deodorant melted into my armpits and did not create the kind of application issues I experienced with the "stick" version (i.e., trial #1).  Also, the addition of tea tree oil increased the effectiveness of this mixture against armpit odor.  Compared to commercial deodorants that I have tried, I prefer this mixture largely because it does not result in a "sweat mixed with deodorant scent" smell.  In other words, it does not attempt to cover up the odor but actually combats it, if you know what I mean.  

Background: Compared to the average woman, I would rate myself as high in the armpit sweat and armpit odor departments.  (Embarrassing, but the truth.) I cannot go without using a strong antiperspirant, so I've been applying Certain Dri every 2-3 nights for a few years now.   Because antiperspirants are only intended to decrease sweat and not fight odor, I also have to use a deodorant in the morning.  Trial #2 of this mixture has become one of my staples (in addition to a commercial deodorant I alternate with so that my body does not get used to either one).  I would recommend Trial #2 to someone like me.

___________________

PROS: easy to mix; inexpensive ingredients; mainly natural ingredients;
scented version: effective against armpit odor;
cream: easy to apply

CONS: stick version: flaky, leaves shirt stains for those who sweat a lot;
unscented version: ineffective for those who sweat a lot.

RATING: Overall, I give the scented, cream version 5 out of 5 stars.  I give the unscented, stick version 1 out of 5 stars.

This product is ideal for those who:

- want an effective natural deodorant (use the trial #2 version for this)

- want an inexpensive, effective deodorant (")

Creamy consistency of the homemade deodorant.

Mixology || Homemade Banana Conditioner (by Loo)

Another natural deep conditioner.  This one softens and infuses the hair with moisture for detangling.

Homemade Banana Conditioner -

Ingredients:
1 medium/large overripe banana (sliced)
4 tbsp extra virgin olive oil (for lubrication, moisture while detangling)
2 tbsp glycerin (humectant, moisture)
2 tbsp honey (humectant, moisture)

Instructions:
Place sliced bananas, extra virgin olive oil, glycerin, and honey all in a blender. Blend the ingredients thoroughly making sure no lumps or banana bits remain. (Depending on your blender quality, you may or may not have to then sieve the mixture with a fine sieve.  Another option is to use banana baby food.) Apply to hair and let sit for 30-45 minutes under a shower cap. Detangle, rinse thoroughly, and style as usual.  (If not rinsed out thoroughly, your hair may be left hard and with mixture remnants once dry.)

Hair after detangling. If you've been following me for some time, you will be wondering how these "curls" appeared considering that I have no natural curl pattern whatsoever.  Well, it looks to be the conditioner.  The last time I used a similar concoction (transitioning days), my hair did the same thing. 

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Mixology || Soothing Summer Body Spray

Are you a fan of body sprays but not a fan of the chemicals?  Do you want to mix your own natural version?  Well here is a recipe for a soothing summer body spray:

Ingredients:
1 tablespoon witch hazel
1 teaspoon lemon extract
1 teaspoon cucumber extract
1 cup water

Directions:
For a refreshing cool feeling, make an after shower spray by combining all the ingredients. Place in a pump spray bottle.

FOR MORE: 250 Bath Body Recipes

You can now find HHB on Facebook. Share with your friends:

http://www.facebook.com/healthyhairandbody.

Mixology || Natural Bubble Bath

Does your use of commercial bubble baths trigger yeast infections? Perhaps these natural alternatives will be more gentle for you, but consult with your doctor first ...

BUBBLE BATH RECIPE #1

Ingredients 
2 cups almond oil
2 cups distilled water
1 cup 100% pure soap flakes (or grated soap)
2 tbsp witch hazel--2 Tbsp

Instructions
Boil the spring water and melt the soap in it. In another container, mixthe witch hazel and almond oil together and shake well. (If possible, do this in a blender.) Then slowly add the soap mixture to the witch hazel and oil blend and again, shake or blend well. These amounts will make a large quantity of basic bubble bath mixture to which you can add the essential oils of your choice as and when required. For each 2 tablespoons of base bubble bath, use 15 drops of essential oil and mix well. Use 1-2 teaspoons of the final product in each bath.

****************************************

BUBBLE BATH RECIPE #2

Ingredients 

1 quart water

1 bar Castille soap (grated or flaked)

3 oz glycerin

5 drops lilac fragrant oil

Instructions

Mix all ingredients together.  Store in a container.  Pour in running water.

FOR MORE: 250 Bath Body Recipes

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Mixology || Jasmine Body Powder

Do you like body powders but want to avoid talc? (There is some suggestion of a possible increase in ovarian cancer risk when using talcium powder [1]).  Do you prefer an alternative with more natural ingredients?  Well here is a recipe for a homemade jasmine body powder.

Ingredients:
Cornstarch--1 cup
Jasmine flowers (dried), finely ground--1 Tbsp
Sweet almond oil--1 tsp
Jasmine absolute oil --1-2 drops

Instructions:
Mix the cornstarch, jasmine flowers, and oils together. Mix well. Place in an airtight container or shaker container.

FOR MORE RECIPES: 250 Bath Body Recipes

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READS: TALC & CANCER

Preserving Homemade Products: The Basics

{Source}

"Preservation" is essential for many of those who mix their own homemade products.  It not only reduces the wasting of ingredients but it prolongs the shelf life of recipes.  Additionally, it saves time spent on concocting product after product for one-time use.  The following list consists of basic preservation methods that are imperative for any mixologist: 

Refrigeration:
Use refrigeration to preserve water-based products (e.g., spritzes) for a short period (a few days to a week or so).  The cold temperature of the fridge will delay growth of bacteria and fungi.

Freezing:
Use the freezer to preserve water-based products (e.g., deep conditioner mixes) for a longer period (few weeks to a month or so).  The even colder temperature of the freezer will delay growth of bacteria and fungi.  Place the product in the refrigerator to thaw on the night prior to using it.

Use clean utensils and containers:
Bathe utensils and containers in a solution of soap and hot water.  An alternative is to wipe down utensils and containers with alcohol.  The soap or alcohol will essentially kill any bacteria that would otherwise contaminate your mixture.

Add an essential oil (but pregnant women beware):
Essential oils can act as a slight preservative due to their antimicrobial properties. Tea tree, lavender, lemon, thyme, and rosemary are just a few essential oils known to have these properties.  Those who are pregnant or sensitive to essential oils should speak with their doctors before use.

Do not use fingers to obtain water-based product:
Our fingers contains tons of bacteria and can contaminate such products.


NOT A PRESERVATIVE, BUT STILL USEFUL ...

Add vitamin E oil or rosemary extract oil:
These oils can slow the oxidation of products containing oils, such as avocado, evening primrose, flax, hemp, or sweet almond oil. Vitamin E and rosemary extract are antioxidants, not preservatives.  Thus, they will not prolong the shelf life a product prone to bacteria and mold growth.

Other tips:
Seal containers airtight
Store non-refrigerated products in dark, cool areas

SOURCES:

VITAMIN E OIL
PRESERVATIVES

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Mixology || Herbal Soap Recipe

{Source}

Do commercial soaps irritate your skin?  Does the call for "lye" in homemade soap recipes scare you?  Well here is a simple recipe for an all-natural exfoliating soap with no direct use of lye.

Ingredients:
1 lg Block olive or veg soap
25 g Loosely chopped herbs
3 dr Essential oil - thyme, rosemary, horse chestnut
1 tb Oatmeal, finely ground

Instructions:
Grate the soap into a basin and add the remaining ingredients. Heat gently in a bain-marie until it melts and mix well. Line an egg box with waxed paper and pour the soap into each section.

FOR MORE RECIPES: 250 Bath Body Recipes

Mixology || Seaweed Body Lotion

Do you want to know exactly what is going onto your skin?  Do commercial lotions irritate your skin?  Well here is a homemade recipe for a moisturizing body lotion incorporating natural ingredients.

Ingredients:
Aloe Vera Gel--1/4 cup
Powdered Kelp--1 tbsp
Purified Water--1 cup
Sweet Almond Oil--2 tbsp

Instructions:
Mix all ingredients together thoroughly. Use a 12 oz bottle flip top bottle.

FOR MORE RECIPES: 250 Bath Body Recipes

Body Wash Recipe: Meadow Milk Bath

MEADOW MILK BATH

Ingredients

• Powdered Milk, finely sifted--4 oz
• Citric Acid--2 oz
• Corn starch--2 oz
• Vitamin E Oil--One 400 IU Capsule (or Grapefruit Seed Oil--30 drops)
• Jasmine--60 drops

Instructions
Blend the powdered milk and corn starch, then sift. Mix vitamin E (or grapefruit seed oil) and Jasmine in CitricAcid. Make sure oils are thoroughly blended in the Citric Acid. Combine the Citric Acid blend with milk/corn starchblend.

Use 3 tablespoons per bath.

FOR MORE: 250 Bath Body Recipes

Natural Remedy for Earaches!

Please pay attention to the disclaimer in the video.