Essential Oil of Myrtle Turkish organic

Click here to purchase:

https://the-aquarian-health-store.sumupstore.com/product/primavera-myrtle-turkish-organic-5ml

(Myrtus communis)

Country of Origin:Ā  Turkey

Oil Quality:Ā  Certified Organic

Method of Extraction:Ā  Steam-distilled from leaves/twigs

A most balancing essential oil with a clear, camphor like scent. Add 25 drops of Myrtle Turkish essential oil to 100 ml Floral Water and use as clarifying face toner. May be visibly beneficial with acne prone skin.

 

Essential Oil of Palmarosa

Palmarosa organic

Cymbopogon Martinii var. motia

This grass like plant offers a floral scent in its essential oil form. It is a popular ingredient in natural skin care as it is considered a safe ingredient. 70kg of this grassy plant material yields 1 liter of essential oil, extracted by steam distillation.

It is often used due to its balancing, relaxing and calming effect. Use a few drops in a suitable aromatherapy diffuser.

5 drops in 50ml of carrier oil may show skin benefitting effects.

Country of Origin: Nepal

Caution: Do not use undiluted. Keep out of reach of children

Remarkable Benefits For Our Health Revealed

Meet Resveratrol from Terranova-Nutrition (TN)

What a fascinating product. I guess we’ve all heard about the health benefits of having red wine as is common practice with some of our neighbours in France and Italy. The reason for this well-known statement lies in the antioxidant powers found in red grapes. And as pleasant as it is to have a glass of wine with our lunch and dinner daily, it is a fact that our lifestyles do unfortunately not suit this habit. Secondly, the amount of alcohol taken in for the most nutritious value may negate the benefits of the active ingredients found in the grapes used for the wine.

Thankfully there is an easier way to get hold of these amazing plant substances. One of my favourites is the Resveratrol Complex by Terranova Nutrition.Ā 

Trans-resveratrol is a polyphenol compound………, wait, what? Let’s talk “normal speak” so that we can all understand why I consider this such a great choice of product. We are talking about plant chemicals. Plants, just like humans are made up of chemical compounds and hormone-like substances. Many of those can have super beneficial attributes for us humans. Just like the food we eat, especially when choosing the freshest and least processed.

So back to Resveratrol from TN. This product is derived from the root of Japanese Knotweed (Polygonum Cuspidatum). I find this particularly interesting as it is a plant marked as an ā€œinvasive speciesā€ here in Ireland. Isn’t it great, that seemingly it has amazing health benefits and that companies found a way to harvest it appropriately? TN combined it with a highly synergistic Magnifood Complex.

Quercetin and Black Pepper are two more components added to this product. Both contain their own potent health benefits. By adding these compounds to Resveratrol, the best possible absorption and utilization by our body is achieved. TN calls this ā€œbioavailability enhancingā€.

As this company backs its products through research and science, I value TN as a 100% trustworthy and transparent partner for my business. In this context, research on Resveratrol shows that taking this substance has been seen as beneficial in reducing blood pressure, particularly systolic BP. This is the number read as upper blood pressure. Systolic BP typically goes up with age, as the arteries stiffen. When pressure is too high….. I think you know what the risks may be.Ā 

Resveratrol may support this BP-lowering effect by helping our body produce nitric oxide, which causes blood vessels to relax.Ā 

Let’s summarize Resveratrol’s Common Applications:

  • Antioxidant (protects cells from getting rusty)
  • Cardiovascular (Heart Health)
  • Cognitive Function
  • Circulation
  • Inflammation
  • Blood Sugar Balance
  • Anti-Aging
  • Immune Support
  • Joint Health
  • Brain and Eye Health

You may also see:

Resveratrol vs Trans Resveratrol

Have you spotted references to ā€˜trans-resveratrol’ thrown into the mix too? You may be wondering if they’re the same thing. Resveratrol is the general product name used for supplements. However, the active ingredient contained within is often trans-resveratrol. They are two different forms of the compound.Ā  The distinction between the two types comes down to how easy it is for your body to absorb and use it. Here’s the breakdown:

  • Red grape skins are a rich source of resveratrol. However, the health benefits only occur once it’s converted into trans-resveratrol in the body.
  • Trans-resveratrol is a chemical form of resveratrol that’s ready to be absorbed and used by the body. For example, Japanese knotweed contains high concentrations of trans-resveratrol. This makes it an effective source for use in food supplements.

Ingredients:

ONE VEGETARIAN CAPSULE TYPICALLY PROVIDES:

MAGNIFOOD COMPLEX 225mg
PROVIDING:
Blackberry Fruit (Rubus fruticosus) – fresh freeze dried – ORGANIC 100mg
Matcha Green Tea Ceremonial Grade AAA (Camellia sinensis) – ORGANIC 75mg
Aronia Berry (Aronia melanocarpa) – fresh freeze dried – ORGANIC 50mgTrans-Resveratrol (from Polygonum cuspidatum – Japanese Knotweed) 150mg
Quercetin (from Sophora japonica) 50mg
Black Pepper Fruit Extract (as **BioPerineĀ® – Piper nigrum) 2mg
Vegetarian Capsule Shell (hydroxypropyl methylcellulose)*BioPerineĀ® is a trademark of Sabinsa CorporationNO FILLERS, BINDERS OR OTHER EXCIPIENTS
NO WHEAT – NO GLUTEN – NO CORN – NO SOY – NO YEAST – NO DAIRY – NO GELATINE – NO ANIMAL INGREDIENTS – NO ADDITIVES – NO ADDED SUGAR – NO COLOURS – NO FLAVOURS – NO PRESERVATIVES

Let me know if you enjoyed this post and feel free to make constructive contributions in the comment section.Ā 

And………..

Do enjoy a glass of red wine to celebrate the good times in life. Always in moderation and according to medical advice. Never drink and drive.

Disclaimer:

Make sure to keep all your food supplements out of reach of children.

This is not a promotional post. No amounts of money were received from TN or other companies. All information in this post is given as guidance and does not replace medical advice. Always consult your GP before taking any food supplements.

 

READ MORE ON OUR WEBSITEĀ 

Ā 

 

Product Reviews – My Step By Step List

You may have seen some of the product reviews I have posted on my YouTube, Facebook and Instagram channels. It’s a passion of mine to look ā€œunder the hoodā€ of products I stock and I consider worth the time, sharing a bit more about with you.

Here is my step-by-step procedure:

  1. First, I look into the company or person that produces it. As I am predominantly interested in reviewing independent enterprises, I need to see who is behind it. Nowadays, we see more and more that big companies have bought several of the smaller producers in this industry and whether we like it or not, I believe in 100% transparency when choosing to stock or buy a produce.
  2. Once I’m happy with the company transparency and ethos, I choose the product/s I would like to test.
  3. First and most important information of the product to me is the ingredient listing. I am predominantly looking for all components to be from natural origin. If there are ingredients that look synthetic to me, I generally reach out to the producers to get clarification. Again, if they are a transparent company, they will reveal the exact origin of their ingredients. And that’s absolutely fine. I will then declare to you what these ingredients are, and anything we need to know about them. The choice, whether to use this product or not, lies with us, the consumer. As a stockist, I may choose differently.
  4. If the product is claiming to be certified organic, I will also look at the certifying body.
  5. Country of origin is a personal passion of mine as I am so interested in all peoples of the globe. I do not make political distinctions as I believe that every farmer and ethical producer has the right to market their products equally, regardless of their country’s political behaviors.
  6. Last not least, I will look at the marketing efforts too. Unfortunately, having a great product doesn’t mean you have a great business. And if there is little marketing activity, the product may not survive. Cause and effect. Therefore it could be a wasted effort to promote a good product or range, only to find efforts wasted and customer disappointed.

So that’s pretty much it. If there is anything else you would like to be included in my exploration, feel free to make suggestions by contacting me.

 

Excellent Natural Sunscreen – Product Review Alba Botanica

Alba sunscreen

An excellent choice for your holiday

If you have had difficulty in finding the most suitable sunscreen, may I suggest this product from Alba Botanica. Have you been experiencing so called ā€œsun allergyā€ or itchy patches when exposed to warm sunshine? Ā And it often gets worse the more sun cream is applied?
Have a look at this video. After using this Hawaiian Sunscreen SPF 30Ā underĀ the African sun for more than 2 weeks, I can truly recommend it, even for most sensitive skin conditions.

In a previous video review I had explained that often a reaction can be due to the ingredient called titanium dioxide, used predominantly as active ingredient in sun creams. Make sure to watch it.

 

A Day For Soup….

Ingredients used in this recipe

Bring Out Those Flavours

Danny has decided to delight us with a “leftover Veg” soup. The powerful properties of organic ginger, chillies, onions and garlic are extracted by glazing them first in the slightly heated oil. Following that, he adds his choice of vegetables like sweet potato and carrot. A great way to use up any bits of leftover vegetables from the fridge before going off to buy new ones.

All the ingredients used are from our own organic store selection. You can find the complete recipe below. But first, watch this little clip and feel free to share:

Ingredients Suggestion:

1 tbsp Olive Oil
1 Onion, roughly chopped
2 large carrots, peeled and roughly chopped
4 cm fresh root ginger, finely chopped
1 clove of garlic, finely chopped
1/2 tsp dried red chili flakes or 1 chili finely chopped
700g sweet potato, peeled and cubed
1/2 liter vegetable stock
salt and freshly ground black pepper

Method:

1. Heat oil in a large and lidded saucepan over medium heat. Add the onion and carrots and cook until softened. Stir in the ginger, garlic and chili flakes and fry for 2-3 minutes or until fragrant.

2. Stir in the sweet potato and stock. Turn up the heat and bring to the boil. Reduce the heat to low and simmer with the lid on for about 15 minutes or until the sweet potato is tender.

3. Remove the pan from heat and blend soup using a stick blender until smooth. Make sure soup has cooled down before blending to avoid hot splashes. Alternatively use food processor or leave veg chunky.

Season to taste and serve and most of all…..

ENJOY!Ā 

 

AVALON ORGANICS – A BURST OF VITAMIN C FOR RADIANT GLOW

This fast-absorbing, mineral oil-free range brightens and immerses our skin in replenishing antioxidants:

Click here for Suzan’s Product Review on this beautiful range
Serum

Infused with a powerful blend of Triple-C Complex, Olive Squalane, Kakadu Plum, Turmeric, Licorice Root and Milk Thistle, our daily serum makes your skin look brighter and smoother, imparting a healthy radiance. Its subtle citric scent definitely puts a smile on your face, giving you that summer feeling.

  • Dermatologist tested
  • Hypo-allergenic
  • Safe for sensitive skin

In consumer testing following 4 weeks of use, 98% of users felt that the serum absorbed easily into the skin, while 95% said their skin looked more radiant.

Gel Cleanser

Our cleansing gel’s pure botanical ingredients gently wash away impurities and pollutants while preserving your skin’s hydration leaving it fresh and vibrant. Infused with Triple-C Complex and Kakadu Plum, rich in replenishing antioxidants, this refreshing cleanser gives you brighter, healthier looking skin without stripping away skin’s moisture. The perfect way to start your morning and wash away the day in the evening.

  • Dermatologist tested
  • Safe for sensitive skin

In consumer testing, hyperpigmentation was shown to be significantly improved after 4 weeks of use.

Renewal CrĆØme Riche

Our rich creme emulsion envelops your skin to deeply nourish and protect it from environmental pollutants while revealing a brighter-looking complexion. Infused with Triple-C Complex, Olive Squalane, Kakadu Plum, Turmeric, Licorice Root and Milk Thistle, loaded with replenishing antioxidants, our nourishing moisturizer rejuvenates and hydrates skin overnight and throughout the day. A little goes such a long way and its subtle citrus scent is like a freshly squeezed orange.

  • Dermatologist tested
  • Hypo-allergenic
  • Safe for sensitive skin

In consumer testing following 4 weeks of use, 94% of users said skin had a healthy glow and felt hydrated the next morning.

Gel Cream Moisturizer

Our lightweight gel formula combines brightening and lightweight hydration leaving your skin rejuvenated.

Infused with Triple-C Complex, Olive Squalene, Kakadu Plum, Turmeric, Licorice Root and Milk Thistle, rich in replenishing antioxidants, the unique gel creme hydrates and gives skin a soft, smooth finish with a radiant glow.

  • Dermatologist tested
  • Hypo-allergenic
  • Safe for sensitive skin

In consumer testing following 4 weeks of use, 85% of users said skin had a healthy glow, while 88% said skin felt soft, smooth and hydrated.

Toothpaste Product Review – Buccotherm My Test Result

After using this product for a couple of weeks both morning and evening I can truly give it a “thumbs up”.

This French company offers a range of oral care products that make sense and cover the complete spectrum in my opinion. Some products contain fluoride and others don’t. So make sure to ask or read the label carefully for your preference.

I’ve recorded a little clip here for you where I describe the results of my test. I am happy to continue using this product. It does certainly keep my gums in good shape.

Buccotherm Toothpaste The Outcome Just click here to see my video review.

 

Oral Care Product Range from Buccotherm

When taking in a new product or range, there’s nothing like giving it a “test drive”. While this is hard to do with supplements as results will take a bit of time, it is very easy to do with toothpaste.Ā  Please pop in to see the full range. Oral health is very important yet hardly spoken about. I will add to this review after a few days to talk about the gum health side of it.

Feel free to comment. Constructive criticism is also welcome but we love the nice words. šŸ™‚

Click on the link below to watch the clip.

Toothpaste brand Buccotherm put to the test

What is Curcumin? Is it Turmeric?

It’s a question I’m often asked when on the shop floor. So let me share with you some information based on Solgar’s Curcumin product which will give you an idea of what it is and what its potential benefits may be.


CURCUMIN by SolgarĀ 

CURCUMIN is the active component of the spice turmeric, which is used in cuisine all over the world. From curries to lattes, the many uses of turmeric are no secret. But did you also know that it is an excellent joint supporter as well? Curcumin, its active component, acts as an antioxidant helping to fight free radicals that are naturally produced in the body. Free radicals can lead to oxidative stress (a bit like rust)Ā which is negatively associated with joint health. Although turmeric is highly accessible, it has poor bioavailability – meaning the body struggles to absorb all of curcumin’s benefits. For that reason, when looking for a curcumin supplement, it is important to choose one formulated for greater bioavailability, as in SolgarĀ® products. OUR RECOMMENDED CURCUMIN SUPPLEMENT: SolgarĀ® Full Spectrum Curcumin Liquid Extract Softgels have better absorption than regular curcumin. Each serving contains 40 mg of curcumin and stays in the body longer than native curcumin extract, giving you the all-day joint support you need. (Source: Solgar.com).

Taking on a regular basis, curcumin can be a fabulous digestive aid also. I personally believe that when our digestive system is healthy, inflammatory conditions tend to be reduced. This is my own observation over the years as health store owner and living in my own body. 😊

So, eat well. Sleep well and before midnight šŸ•› is best.

Laugh a lot and do lots of what you love, little of what you tolerate and none of what you hate. (John Assaraf).

Sea Magik Hair – Simply Magical

My Personal Favourite (The Boss that is)

The secret is out! Well, let’s say part of the secret of that healthy and ever-growing head of hair of mine. But credit where it’s due. I have been using this shampoo for many years now. The odd time I tried some other wonderful and natural products, but find myself coming back to this always.

Another secret of healthy hair is a very good digestive system. 80/20 rule of clean eating applies. As well as washing it only once per week or as little as possible. This allows the natural oils and nutrients to stay balanced.

Let’s look at what the owners of Spa Magik have to say about it:

OUR BEST-SELLING DAILY-USEĀ 
SEA MAGIK MINERAL SHAMPOO…

is a remineralising shampoo that gently cleanses the hair and soothes an irritated scalp. Containing organic seaweed, Dead Sea minerals, Salicylic Acid and Pro Vitamin B5 help to soften, hydrate and strengthen your hair and its follicles, as well as calm, soothe and nourish your scalp. Hair is left healthy, silky soft and shiny whilst the scalp is left hydrated.

Mineral Shampoo is suitable for all hair types and great for anyone that suffers from a dry or flaky scalp, eczema or psoriasis. This gentle shampoo can be used daily. Apply to wet hair. Lather and massage all over the scalp and hair and rinse with warm water. We recommend following with Sea Magik Hair Magic Conditioner.

Tip – Shampoo your hair twice before conditioning. This will thoroughly cleanse your hair and scalp.

There you have it. Pop in to check it out. Or send us a message if you would like to find out more.

 

Super Food Recipes from our Fan Food Fair

Tatiana’s Recipes

Lentil Burgers

Ingredients

250g black, green or brown lentils, soaked overnight

100g cooked brown rice

75g sunflower seeds

1 tablespoon tomato puree

2 teaspoons soy sauce

2 gloves of garlic

1 teaspoon onion powder

½ teaspoon smoked paprika

½ teaspoon salt and pepper

¼ teaspoon chili powder

 

Method

  • Place lentils (drained well) cooked rice, sunflower seeds, tomato puree and all spices in the food processor and pulse repeatedly until well combined.
  • Make burger size shapes and fry in a pan for approx. 4-5 mins on each side

Millet Salad

Ingredients:

200g Millet

1 teaspoon stock

Pear and Walnut Millet

100g Walnut, toasted (10mins in the oven at 160C)

2 ripe pears

Handful of fresh spinach or rocket

Tomato and Sweetcorn

2 Tomatoes

1 glass of sweetcorn

75g pumpkin seeds, toasted (10mins in the oven at 180 C)

Handful of fresh spinach or rocket

Dressing

2 tablespoon Extra virgin Olive oil

2 teaspoon lemon juice

2 teaspoon maple syrup

2 teaspoon wholegrain mustard

1 small garlic clove, crushed & finely chopped

Sea salt & black pepper, to taste

Method

  • Cook the millet in 400ml of water and add a tsp of vegan stock, cook until all water has been absorbed and the millet has become soft (add more water if needed)
  • Let the millet cool down and mix with the preferred salad ingredients.

Gluten free Apple crumble

Pastry:

150g white rice flour

100g buckwheat flour

100g butter

80g caster sugar

1 large egg

 

Mix the butter with the sugar first, then add the egg and mix again until it looks like scrambled eggs. Add the flour and mix with your hands, let it cool in the fridge for 30mins.

Knead the dough and roll it. Put it as the base of the baking form.

 

Filling:

2 – 3 sweet apples

1 teaspoon of cinnamon

Cut the apples into small pieces and add the cinnamon, then put the mixture on top of the Pastry.

Crumble:

100g buckwheat flour

50g caster sugar

50g butter

Put all the above ingredients into a bowl and mix with your fingertips until the mixture looks like breadcrumbs. Then put the mixture on top of the apples and bake in the preheated oven.

 

Oliver McCabe – FuelFood Cook Book AuthorĀ 

Here are his delicious recipes:

Magical Moroccan Warming Veggie Stew (one pot wonder)

Recipe by Oliver McCabe

Serves 5/6

Vegan Allergen Free

Contains celery

Ingredients:

1 tablespoon True Natural Goodness organic

extra virgin coconut oil

1 large onion, chopped

1 large carrot, chopped

400g of chopped peeled boiled sweet potato

2 garlic cloves, chopped

100g baby spinach

1 tablespoon paprika

2 teaspoons ground cumin

1 & 1/2 teaspoons True Natural Goodness

Organic Ceylon ground cinnamon

250ml homemade Vegetable stock

150g pitted Kalamata olives halved

100g golden raisins

400g can organic chickpeas, drained

1/2 cup chopped fresh coriander

1 teaspoon grated lemon peel

1 tablespoon of coconut chips

Method:

  1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat.
  2. Add onion, carrot and garlic to pan. Cook until vegetables are soft, stirring frequently,

about 10 minutes.

  1. Add spices and squash and spinach; stir 1 minute, Add broth, olives, raisins, chickpeas and

coriander; bring to boil. Simmer on a very low heat for 40 minutes.

  1. Add lemon peel. Remove pot from heat and let rest for 20 minutes.Ā  Serve with cooked

couscous, boiled potatoes or quinoa and top with fresh coriander and coconut chips.

Classic Christmas Hummus

recipe by Oliver McCabe

Makes 250g

Vegan, Gluten, Dairy, Sugar and Nut Free

When making your own hummus from scratch, it’s always best to use dried beans that you soak overnight. This leads to a creamier, more wholesome hummus that you’ll love making again and again.

A good source of calcium, plant protein, essential fats, dietary fibre and vitamin C. Low GL.

Ingredients

400g dried chickpeas or organic chick peas drained

5 tablespoons dark tahini paste

3 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice

2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1 teaspoon tamari

Pinch of Himalayan fine rock salt

Method

Soak the dried chickpeas overnight in plenty of water in an airtight container in a moderately temperate place. The following day, drain the chickpeas and rinse thoroughly. Place in a large saucepan, cover with three times their volume of cold water and bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cook for 1 hour, until tender. Drain and add to a blender with all the remaining ingredients. Blend together, adding water as needed to reach your desired consistency. You will probably need to stop the blender several times to scrape down the sides. Add more smoked paprika, salt, lemon juice or tahini to taste. Transfer to an airtight container or a glass jar, cover and refrigerate for several hours before serving. This hummus will last for up to five days in the fridge.

 

Persian Spiced Buckwheat, Cranberries and Feta Salad

Recipe by Oliver McCabe

Serves 6. Vegetarian allergen free

Ingredients

1 cup Organic Buckwheat grain

4 cups water

3 Tbsp pomegranate molasses

1 tsp True Natural Goodness Irish honey

4 Tbsp of extra virgin olive oil

Sea salt and fresh black pepper, to taste

¼ tsp of True Natural Goodness Organic Turmeric

¼ tsp of True Natural Goodness Organic Cinnamon

100g of organic cooked butter beans

1/2 cup cucumber, diced

1 cup dried True Natural Goodness cranberries

1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled

Bunch of Rocket leaves

True Natural Good shelled hemp seeds for sprinkling on prepped salad

Directions

Rinse and drain the buckwheat. Place in a saucepan, bring to a boil, cover and simmer for 25 minutes, checking frequently, until it tastes chewy but cooked all the way through. While the grain is cooking, combine the pomegranate molasses, honey and olive oil in a small jar with a tight-fitting lid. Add salt and pepper to taste. Shake the jar to emulsify the dressing, and set aside. When the Buckwheat is cooked (it will be chewy, not mushy), drain and add it to a mixing bowl with the cucumber, cranberries, beans and dressing. Toss well to combine. At the last moment before serving, add the cheese, toss lightly, and serve with rocket leaves mixed through.