More Natural Remedies

By: Andrea Yazbeck

But wait… there’s more.

Spring has sprung! And that means gorgeous weather, lovely pops of color, and fresh air to go with that fresh complexion! With all the exams and events that are colliding at a time like this, who has time to spend on makeup? Today, I’m going to share with you five more organic ways to keep yourself feeling energetic, blooming and beautiful! So without further ado . . .

Vibrant Clay Mask and Good Vibez

This mask is unlike anything you’ve ever tried before. It calls for a special Aztec Clay powder ( that can be bought on Amazon) and Apple Cider Vinegar. What is “Aztec” clay? It’s otherwise known as Bentonite Clay, which basically pulls dirt, oil and other pollutants from the skin. While the bad stuff is leaving, the good stuff is doing it’s work, meaning minerals ( iron, calcium, sodium) diffuse into the skin. So why Apple Cider Vinegar and not water? It’s all in the pH. Apple Cider Vinegar has anti-fungal, anti-bacterial and anti-viral properties. It is the only vinegar that is acidic yet has alkaline effects on the body ( we need a slightly alkaline pH to be healthy). Add equal parts of both and you’ll have a mask that not only will leave your skin clean, but also creates a pulsing sensation on the skin.

The vinegar smell can be a little overwhelming but trust me, in 15-20 minutes the difference will be overwhelming too:) Keep this mask on until it your face feels really tight! Make sure that you rinse with warm water and a gentle cleanser. And last but not least, moisturize with your organic oil of choice! Healing for the body and the soul, how could you go wrong?

Say Cheese :D

Oil pulling? What’s that !? You may have heard of this kind of hippie but extremely hygienic practice. Don’t fear! It’s a little strange at first, but the outcome is surprisingly amazing! All you need is organic coconut oil. Surprise there? I think not, Coconut Oil is useful for almost everything! Take a spoonful before you jump in the shower and swish the oil around in your mouth for about 15 min, taking care to move the oil through your teeth. At first, this is gonna be v weird and probably gonna freak you out, but once you spit the oil out your teeth will be incredibly clean! The mechanism behind this practice is that the oil will pull any toxins that may be chillin in your teeth. Make sure to brush those pearly whites afterwards ( not necessary, just a comfort thing) and do not consume any of the oil!  Smile big for your next photo op!!  :D

Buzzz away

Finals! Capstones! Points! Hours! Oh MY! There are way too many things going on during the months of April and May! Everyone’s birthday is happening, every important exam, every super fun event. I find my planner filled from morning to evening with to do’s and to go’s. So of course, my skin goes into overload as well, with everything so fast paced and stress levels high, I find blemishes popping up when I definitely don’t need them! Buttt I’ve got a little spot treatment up my sleeve to keep the redness down and the blues too.

You only need two simple ingredients, Aloe Vera and Tea Tree essential oil. Mix a few drops of the oil and a small blob of aloe vera in a little container and that’s it! During a short midday break or before you go to bed, apply a small dab on the area that’s necessary! The cooling sensation will let you know that it’s working right away :) I usually make a small batch at the beginning of the week and keep it handy for all the ups and downs!

A Moment of Peace

Again, this is the busiest time of the year. It’s easy to get caught up in grades and the negatives. Make sure that you take a moment to yourself to find some balance. Evening showers are a great time to wind down and wash the day away. So, while you’re in the shower why not try something new to add a little more peace to a busy mind? Here the use of essential oils is again, essential (ba dum tushh). Place a couple drops of Eucalyptus essential oil in your palm/on your fingers; hold to your nose and let the steam do it’s magic. Eucalyptus has been proven to reduce stress and help promote breathing. So breathe deeply! Ahhh a moment of peace.

Grow and Glo

If you’re anything like me, you’re always down for a Teji’s run. The spices in Indian food make my tummy grumble like no other. But did you know that the very same spices that you eat can have a really great effect on your skin too? The spice in the spotlight today is Turmeric. Turmeric has long been used by many beautiful South Asian women to promote glowing skin and health. It said that it can be used to treat a wide range of issues such as heartburn, arthritis, stomach pain and even Alzheimer’s! For the skin, it reduces acne scars, inflammation, and even can help to reduce hair growth. I discovered a special mixture a few years back and could not be more pleased with the results. Grab a bowl and mix:

-one spoon of organic yogurt

-one spoon of chickpea flour ( or regular)

-a tablespoon of Turmeric

-a tablespoon of Rose Water

-a squeeze of honey

Adjust as you like and apply onto the skin. Leave the mixture on for about 10-15 minutes or even longer! Rinse off with warm water. Be careful not to wear anything you like too much because Turmeric does unfortunately stain pretty bad. You may even notice that your skin might be slightly yellow! But no worries, use a cotton ball and some toner to remove any excess yellow! You’ll have a glow that will shine for days :)

That’s all that I have for you all this time around! Remember to take dance breaks, breathe, and understand that there are quite a few things more important than that test grade! But regardless, you all will do great!  :D

Xoxo,

Andrea Yazbeck