Tuesday, July 30, 2013

What Are Parabens And Why Are They Harmful?

By definition, parabens are a class of chemicals used as both a preservative as well as an antibacterial agent in many hygiene and cosmetic products.  It is relatively cheap to produce and a big factor as to why it's used so frequently.  Common paraben ingredients under this classification include butyl, ethyl, heptyl, methyl and propyl. 

In recent years much controversy has surronded the use of parabens in products such as deodorants, shampoos, soap, shaving gels, creams and the like.  Parabens are thought to have estrogen like effects on human cells.  Estrogen of course is a primary catalyst in the development of certain cancers including breast cancer.  In addition, a study done in 2004 showed higher than normal amounts of paraben concentrations in breast cancer tumors which were retrieved from the area closest to the armpits. 

Other health concerns associated with parabens include allergic reactions and skin damage.  Typically though only a small portion of people experience any type of skin irritation when it comes into contact with it. 

Interestingly enough not all parabens are bad.  For example, methylparabens are found naturally in blueberries and thought to have antioxidant properties.  However, any paraben found in commercial products are created synthetically and contain no known health benefits. 

For more information on parabens you can read more here

Finding a natural deodorant which does not use parabens can be difficult.  If this is something you are concerned about, be sure to read the ingredient label of whatever you are thinking of buying.  Along with the specific ones listed at the begining of this article, generally anything ending in -yl can be classified as a paraben. 

Tuesday, July 9, 2013

5 Best Natural Feminine Hygiene Products

While it might not be a subject that comes up in everyday conversation, taking care of those lady parts is something all women think about.  Finding a good, reliable Feminine Hygiene product can be daunting; especially if you're in the mood for something all natural. 

We've put together a list of our top 5 products that we feel are not only effective and reliable, but also natural. 

Thursday Plantation Tea Tree Wash - This spray wash is made using only organic ingredients that are certified by the Organic Food Chain.  A simple spritz and wipe will have you feeling fresh and smelling great for several hours thereafter.

Body Mint Lady - A favorite of ours for a number of reasons.  First and foremost the Body Mint line of products use a chlorophyllin formulation and do not have any harsh chemicals or artificial ingredients.  This internal deodorant is a spin off of their original version.  It differs in that Lady is formulated for women and designed to target feminine odor specifically.  Oh, and it also has the added benefits of vitamin D and calcium.

Waterworks Natural Cleansing and Odor Elimination Kit - This FDA cleared cleaning kit is a revolutionary douching alternative.  It uses a natural and gentle solution to cleanse the inside of a woman without distrupting her pH balance.  Developed over a 6 year period, Waterworks is lightweight and resusable.

Fresh Petals Feminine Odor Spray - Using a proprietary blend of organic sea plant extracts and ionized water, Fresh Petals contains no fillers, dyes, perfumes or allergens.  It works by keeping a woman's pH balance normal and thus keeps bacterial growth under control.  It does not have a scent, but rather works to restore a woman's natural scent.  Results are immediate and using the product is simple and easy.

Pure Touch Feminine Wipes - This gentle wipe is made with natural ingredients and fortified with aloe vera, vitamins E, C & A.  It contains no parabens or harsh chemicals and works wonderfully after 'activities' or during the menstrual cycle.  Easy to use, Pure Touch is formulated for a woman's body and can be used during any time of the day.