Nigella (Black Seed Oil) — Miracle for the Face and Body!

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Today I am going to be talking about Nigella Oil.  Nigella Sativa is an interesting plant, and the oil is commonly referred to as Nigella or Black Seed Oil.

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Nigella Sativa belongs to the Plant family of Ranunculaceae (the buttercup family). Nigella seeds (Black Seeds) have little odor, but when ground or chewed they develop a vaguely oregano-like scent. The taste is aromatic and slightly bitter; It has been called “pungent” and “smoky” and even compared to black pepper, but it is difficult to agree with that comparison. There is, however, some pungency in unripe or not yet dried seeds.

Nigella Sativa originated from Western Asia.  After some research, I found out that although nigella seeds are not mentioned in the common Bible translations, there is good evidence that an obscure plant name mentioned in the Old Testament means nigella; if that is true, this would indicate that nigella seeds have been cultivated since far more than two millennia. Today, the plant is cultivated from Egypt to India.

Black Seed Oil was even treasured by King Tut and was found in his tomb proving that the important kings found value in this seed. It was a sign also that of all the gold and diamonds he possessed, black seed oil was part of what he chose to take to the next life (as they believed).  Well, I just thought I would give you a little history lesson…haha!

Black Seeds nutritional value is pretty high as well.  Black seeds contain over 100 chemical compounds and some of the ingredients are yet to be discovered and identified. The main active ingredient in black seeds is crystalline nigellone. The seeds also contain beta sitosterol, thymoquinone, myristic acid, palmitic acid, stearic acid, palmitoleic acid, oleic acid, linoleic acid, arachidonic acid, proteins and vitamins B1, B2 and B3.  They also contain calcium, folic acid, iron, copper, zinc and phosphorous.  An all around multiple vitamin in these tiny black seeds.

Hmmmm….interesting.

The anti-inflammatory and anti-fungal properties also make this herb an excellent folk medicine for many skin conditions.  It is also an excellent anti-aging skin care powerhouse and a powerful moisturizer to boot.

Black seed oil helps your skin to repair itself and protect it from epidermal water loss, which leads to dry and wrinkled skin.  Boy did I need to hear this….
The vitamin A and the flavonoids, which this herb contains, also benefit your skin tone.  If you want to fight and prevent age spots and freckles, this is your tool!

I was stunned when I did research into this wonderful oil.  I have yet to try it….but when I do, I will be sure and give you a detailed review.  I am on the hunt for it as we speak.  Reviews are forthcoming….

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Rose Hip Seed Oil “MY Miracle”

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Hi Sweeties!!

Today I want to rave about my very favorite skin oil!  Now…….just know that I love my oils…..but Rose Hip Seed oil beats ’em all!!

Rose Hip Seed oil is a pressed seed oil, extracted from the seeds of a rose bush ( Rosa rubiginosa ) which grows wild in the southern Andes Mountains.  Rosehip seed oil can also be extracted from Rosa canina which grows in many regions of the world such as South Africa and Europe. The extraction process is really unique!

The oil contains PROVITAMIN A (mostly beta carotene).  But what is staggering is that the oil has been wrongly said to contain retinol (Vitamin A) which is a vitamin solely made by animals from provitamin A.  It does however contain levels (up to .357 ml/L) of tretinoin or all-trans retinoic acid, a vitamin A acid that retinol converts to.  You know me….I love the scientific aspect of oils!!!  I do my research!!!

Similarly, while the fruit is rich in vitamin C, the oil does not contain any vitamin C (vitamin C is a water soluble vitamin only, hence cannot be present in oils).  So if you see that advertised, that is not quite the truth….

Rose hip seed oil is also very high in the essential fatty acids – linoleic acid or omega 6, and linolenic or omega 3.  It is commonly used in skin care products and serums (and of course I have tried them all!).  Most importantly, it is also commonly used for a variety of skin conditions, including dermatitis, acne and eczema, for mature and sun burnt skin as well as brittle nails and wrinkles.  Rose hip oil is also frequently used to heal scarring and diminish photo-aging or severe sun damage.

Rosehip oil comes from the seeds of a type of rose known as rosa mosqueta.  The oil is extracted from the ‘hip’ of the rose, generally using a cold pressed method, which divides the hips and seeds.

Rosehip oil has seen a heavenly rise to beauty fame this past summer as supermodel, and wife of Orlando Bloom, Miranda Kerr openly claimed that it is one of the secrets behind her luminous skin saying ‘ I like to wear rosehip oil at night.  It’s full of that many antioxidants and it really workd on a cellular level to rejuvinate the skin – I put it on at night and I wake up glowing.’  OK, I heard that and I had to try it….

Curious?  Me too!  Anything that will make my skin look as beautiful as Miranda’s….I want to give it a shot.  As a matter of fact, she is the reason I tried it in the first place.  And boy was she right!!!!!!  I love everything about this precious oil.  The smell, the feel, and the result!!!  Wow!!!  Luminous is the word I would use to describe it!! I am seriously addicted to this oil.  I think I have an oil “crush”!! haha

Meanwhile, A-list facialists all over Hollywood have raved that they are fans of this super product, adding it to their signature therapy treatments which are very popular with the Duchess of Cambridge, Gwyneth Paltrow and Victoria Beckham.  Now that’s some client list!  Rosehip Oil is perfect for all ages and skin types, including those with sensitive skin conditions like rosacea and acne (which is me).  Of course I don’t use any moisturizer except this oil now….but you could add a drop to your moisturizer to boost the results if you so choose. 🙂

So what is all the fuss about?  Well, unlike its many competitors, Rosehip Oil is a ‘dry oil’ which sinks easily into the skin without leaving a greasy sheen.  Its active ingredients of Omega 3, Omega 6 Essential Fatty Acids also make it super moisturising and very effective at smoothing out irritating fine lines (not that we can imagine Miranda Kerr ever had any).  And if that isn’t enough, its creme de la resistance is that it is a source of retinoic acid which is known for evening skin tone and tackling skin pigmentation and rosacea, two of the most common skin complaints!

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Also, I wanted to tell you to make sure you use “cold-pressed oil” and make sure it is organic!!!  Some good choices are: Trilogy, Life-Flo, and the ever lovely Pai.  My personal favorite is Aura Cacia.  It is the most lovely golden color and smells divine.  Of course it is a smell that is very organic.  Not floral or rosy in any way…. so don’t get your hopes up.

The greatest thing to me about Rose Hip Seed Oil is that is contains the following wonderful components:

  • Linolenic acid
    An omega-3 fatty acid that is needed for the structure of cell membranes and helps dry skin conditions by providing essential moisture.
  • Linoleic acid
    An omega-6 fatty acid that helps cells to provide a natural barrier to environmental damage.
  • Oleic acid
    An omega-9 fatty acid that helps to repair tissue damage and improve skin condition.
  • ProVitamin A (topical trans-retinoic acid)
    Naturally occurring vitamin A that helps to prevent premature ageing caused by sun exposure. May help to improve the appearance of acne and oily skin, sun damage, wrinkles and pigmentation.
  • Lycopene
    A powerful antioxidant that helps protect and repair skin from premature ageing caused by modern living.
  • Beta-carotene
    A source of pro-vitamin A, an antioxidant that helps protect the skin from ageing and improves the appearance of sundamaged skin.

All I can tell you is that out of all the oils I have come in contact with and tried, this is my very favorite!!  It is luscious and wonderful!!!!

Enjoy your day….and don’t forget to try this miracle oil!  More later sweeties!! 🙂

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Arnica Oil is Awesome!

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Well, I have found another wonderful oil on my quest to try each and every oil in the world.  haha….

Arnica Oil is my latest discovery and a wonderful one at that!!!!

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Arnica is actually from the sunflower family, and looks alot like a sunflower!! 🙂

It is an alpine herb with a long history of use in the folk medicine of Russia and the Swiss Alps.  Arnica is also approved for use by the Commission E for external use in injury and for consequences of accidents, e.g., hematoma, dislocations, contusions, edema due to fracture, rheumatic muscle and joint pain.I unfortunately suffer from TMJ (Temporo-Mandibular Joint Disorder) which is a very painful jaw disorder.  The muscles in my jaws are always inflamed causing headaches, sinus problems and neck pain.  I have had this issue almost my entire life.  I have tried many remedies to help the pain, but I recently tried Arnica oil.  I will massage the oil (which is good for the skin as well) into my jaw area, and within 10 mins. my pain diminished considerably.  I was blown away.Arnica is available both as a herbal oil or homeopathic cream, however herbal preparations have shown much better results than homeopathic products when it was tested in lab studies.  Arnica oils and creams are one of the best known herbal sports medicines, arnica has dramatic results if used immediately after an injury.

After much research, I learned that Arnica helps to speed the healing process by moving waste-bound fluids out and moving cleansing fluids and platelets into the affected area. The anti-inflamatory properties of arnica are primarily due to its sesquiterpene lactones.  These chemicals cause a reduction of inflammation by blocking the actions of pro-inflammatory cytokines.  I know this sounds really scientific, but I like to know exactly what I am putting on my skin.

The best Arnica Oil that I have tried is NOW Warming Relief Massage Oil – 8 oz. It is for muscle tension and it is paraben free, which I love. Arnica Warming Relief Massage Oil captures the natural soothing essence of Arnica to provide immediate warmth and relief to sore, tired, overworked muscles (In my case, my jaw).  I love it so much because it is set in a base of antioxidant-rich Olive Oil, this deep-penetrating massage oil contains potent Arnica, in addition to a perfect collection of essential oils and other natural extracts.  The great thing about this brand, is that it is perfect after a busy day or a strenuous workout, and can also be used as a daily skin softener.

The multitude of ingredients include: Sunflower Seed Oil, Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Arnica Oil (Arnica montana), Aroma Oil Blend [Organic Lavender Oil, Lemon Oil, Palmarosa Oil, Natural Vanilla Fragrance, Wintergreen Oil] and Vitamin E (natural d-alpha tocopherol).  All of which are wonderful oils for your skin.

I have to caution you though, Arnica can cause allergic dermatitis with extended use and it is a little drying, so the olive oil base helps your skin maintain moisture. You also should not use it on open wounds or broken skin. I love the NOW Foods brands because they do not test on animals.

So if you are feeling sore, this is the Oil for you!!  Happy Day!!
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Argan Oil…Liquid Gold!!

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All the Benefits of Argan Oil for Cosmetic Purposes!

Today I want to tell you about Argan Oil!! It is one of my favorite oils for the skin.  It practically has no smell, is significantly thinner that some of the other skin oils, and sinks into your skin fairly quickly.  I am still addicted to all oils, but Pure Argan Oil is something wonderful if you have very sensitive skin like me.  In this post I am going to explain some of the  benefits of using Argan Oil on your precious skin…..

Argan Oil for Skin Care

  • Argan oil is a wonderful moisturizer. As this oil is rich in fatty acids, it is better than most moisturizers.
  • It is totally natural, making it safe for all ages and all skin types.
  • This oil has antimicrobial properties, making it great for the skin and lesions.
  • This product is easily absorbable by the skin. Because it does not contain any cholesterol, it does not leave any residue.
  • Pregnant women will love this product. When applied regularly, it will reduce and prevent stretch marks from appearing on the skin’s surface.
  • Argan oil regulates and keeps the pH balance of the skin normal. This keeps the skin protected from sun exposure, smoking, pollution, etc.
  • It reduces skin inflammation and helps in curing several skin disorders such as eczema and psoriasis.
  • It is also effective in helping to eliminate scars produced by chicken pox and burns.

Argan Oil and Dry Skin

  • The perfect food for the skin, argan oil nourishes and moisturizes dry, scaly and flaky skin.
  • The active compounds found in this oil are essential for regulating healthy and hydrated skin.

What Argan Oil Can Do for Oily Skin

  • This oil regulates sebum production to keep the skin’s natural oils at a healthy level. With its use, the skin does not look and feel oily any more.
  • When the body’s glands produce too much oil, argan oil acts as a neutralizer and brings the body’s natural oils to a normal level.

The Benefits of Argan Oil for Irritated and Itchy Skin

  • For itchy skin brought about by dryness, allergies, or other skin conditions, argan oil soothes the skin and alleviates itchiness.
  • The oil’s properties protect skin from allergens that may cause itchiness and solves skin dryness by keeping skin moisturized.

How Argan Oil Can Help With Treating Acne

  • Argan oil is effective in controlling the production of sebum. Sebum is an oil produced by the body. When too much is produced, acne usually occurs.
  • It prevents redness and inflammation brought about by acne.
  • This oil not only reduces acne, but its properties also help in reducing the appearance of ugly scars left by acne.

The Benefits of Argan Oil Against Aging

  • Argan oil helps to stimulate the renewal of skin cells, making the skin more elastic.
  • It effectively reduces wrinkles and skin lines.
  • It rehydrates dry and damaged skin, helping to reverse aging.
  • Massaging this oil in the body helps relieve sore muscles caused by aging.

Argan Oil and Stretch Marks

  • Argan oil, being rich in antioxidants, supplements the skin and keeps skin elastic during pregnancy. Regular application will quickly help to substantially prevent and reduce stretch marks.
  • The antioxidants prevent the breakdown of two important skin proteins – elastin and collagen. These two components are important in skin regeneration to keep stretch marks under control.
  • Essential fatty acids like linoleic acid help preserve cell integrity. Argan oil has 3 times more linoleic acid than olive oil. This high concentration of linoleic acid helps to restore the skin’s elasticity.
  • This oil is also perfect for repairing skin discoloration brought about by stretch marks.

Argan Oil for Treating Eczema and Psoriasis

  • The unique blend of nutrients found in argan oil greatly helps in alleviating the inflammatory symptoms associated with psoriasis.
  • The same components of this oil act as excellent moisturizers for psoriatic plaques.
  • It addresses immunity problems and allergies that trigger eczema symptoms.
  • Argan oil, being a wonderful moisturizer, effectively treats dry and scaly skin caused by both psoriasis and eczema.
  • It makes psoriasis and eczema more tolerable.
  • This oil reduces skin redness.

I love love love Argan Oil!!! You really need to try it!!!

Essential Oil Love!!!

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Today I am going to tell you about essential oils.  All I can say is…..WOW!!  I never knew they had so much power.  For those of you that read my blog, you know I love my oils, but essential oils add a power punch to the already nutrient-packed carrier oils.  Some of the best oils to use on your face are:

Juniper.  Juniper oil is derived through the steam distillation of the needles, wood and fruit of the juniper tree.  Juniper oil can be used in a number of different ways, and is an effective facial skin tonic or skin oil . According to Organic Facts, juniper oil acts as an astringent; it tightens muscles and gives a feeling of firmness, fitness and youth. Juniper oil’s antiseptic properties can also kill bacteria, helping to prevent infection in acne sufferers.

Frankincense. Frankincense oil is recognized for its antiaging properties. This essential oil has been used as a cosmetic since ancient Egyptian times and continues to be popular to this day.  It was so valuable in Biblical times, Frankincense along with precious Myrrh was given by the 3 wise men to Christ Jesus when he was born.  It can help prevent and reduce wrinkles by smoothing and refining the appearance of the skin. It can also promote the growth of firm, new skin cells and rejuvenates the skin.

Rosemary. Rosemary is a popular herb known for use during cooking, particularly with meat dishes. But, Rosemary oil is also a versatile essential oil, with a number of different properties useful to the skin. Massaged into the face, rosemary oil can help reduce the symptoms of dry skin. It can also rejuvenate mature skin and improve circulation. Rosemary’s mild antiseptic properties can also prevent infection.

Neem. Oil from the seed or fruit of the neem tree has been used in traditional Indian medicine for many years. Neem oil is an effective treatment for many skin conditions and can be used as an ingredient in soap and skin care oils and creams to help treat oily or greasy skin. Neem oil can also soothe and reduce the symptoms of eczema and acne.

Lavender. The essential oil of lavender has long been recognized for its calming properties, and many people use the oil to scent bed linens to help cure insomnia or in baby lotions to help babies sleep.  A pleasant, relaxing night’s sleep alone is certainly enough to improve the health of facial skin, but the oil also has other uses.  Lavender oil can be used to treat eczema and acne, and can be applied directly to the skin to treat insect bites and stings.

Essential oils can have the most delightful results for your skin, no matter what the problem.  Always try to research what the problem is first, and make sure to choose the correct oil.  Another tip…..because of the strength of these oils and “odor”, I always choose a carrier oil such as jojoba oil, sweet almond oil, or apricot oil to dilute the essential oil.
Have a happy organic day!!!!

 

 

Sunflower Oil! Your skin will “Bloom” with this oil!

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Sunflower Oil is one of the most incredible oils I have had the pleasure to try.  It is a beautiful light golden yellow color, and so luscious on your skin.  I have come to love natural oil skincare and adore the results I have seen.  I have gotten to the point where I only use oils for EVERYTHING skin related.

Let’s define organic Sunflower Oil – Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil; Good for all skin types, it has only a mild aroma. Sunflower oil contains vitamins A, B, D, E, and F, a source of unsaturated fatty acids that help control the metabolic rate and balance cholestererol levels. Vitamin F plays a role in the proper functioning of the skin and can help regulate sebaceous glands. This oil is good for treating skin condtiions and dandruff as well as leg ulcers and bruises. A light and pleasant oil to use. Sunflower oil is high in linoleic acid, and it will not irritate the skin or aggravate acne (which I deal with on a weekly basis).

Sunflower oil is a less expensive alternative to olive oil. Despite that, don’t store it longer than six months. To enjoy healthy skin, you need Omega 6 fatty acids. But most Americans are eating a lot of processed foods and this adds unhealthy, damaged fat to your skin. An important step is therefore to eat or apply high quality Omega 6 fats. Sunflower oil is excellent as a part of your skin care routine because it contains the right essential fatty acid that your skin needs to stay healthy. Let’s take a closer look shall we? After doing extensive research I found the following:

Chemical Constituents of Sunflower Oil:

Palmitic acid : 4 – 9%, Stearic acid : 1 – 7%, Oleic acid : 14 – 40%, Linoleic acid : 48 – 74% Contains: lecithin, tocopherols, carotenoids and waxes.

Why is it in Your Hair and Skin-care Products? 

Sunflower oil is the quiet unsung hero in a marketplace saturated with oils (Thank goodness!)  :). It has many healing properties that work well in many applications, including herbal infusion used in massage and hot-oil treatments; nail soaks; cooking, salad dressings, marinades and formulating homemade cosmetics.

High linoleic acid lends an anti-inflammatory, acne-reducing, moisturizing quality. Linoleic acid acts as an emulsifier in shampoo, soaps, and conditioners.  Sunflower oil contains some strong vitamins too.  Loaded with vitamin A, D, and E it has a good amount of protein for skin and hair.  It’s a high-quality source of zinc (protein is very good for most types of hair, vitamin E is a great antioxidant and zinc is protective against the sun’s rays). Sunflower Oil is…

  • Low in saturated fat levels.
  • Has skin and hair smoothing properties—a helper to curly tops.
  • Skin and hair benefits from the moisture-retention quality.
  • Considered hypoallergenic; making it safe for most skin types, as well as eczema.
  • A healthy addition to anti-aging, wrinkle serums.
  • It’s inexpensive and widely available.
  • It helps boost the immune system.

Sunflower Oil does a body Good!

  • Has cardiovascular benefits: appears to lower cholesterol which, in turn, results in a smaller risk of heart disease.
  • Studies of adults suggested that a balanced diet in which small quantities of saturated fats are replaced with sunflower oil has detectable cholesterol-reducing benefits.
  • Shown to benefit premature infant with underdeveloped skin who are susceptible to infection; infections decreased by almost half in infants receiving daily skin treatment of sunflower oil.
  • Sunflower oil provides a protective barrier against infection in infants.

Wow!!! All those positives from a little yellow flower!!  A strong beautiful flower!  It is becoming a part of my daily routine, and it is worth a try ladies!!  I use this brand!!  www.life-flo.com

It is awesome!

Face Oil Lust!!!

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Okay, how many of you think of the word “face oil” and just cringe?

I was one of those people for the longest time.  But for the past 5 years, I have dabbled in Oil skin care.  I started out slowly just adding a drop here and there to my moisturizer or foundation, but today, I am a full fledged oil junkie.  My husband jokes that if he kisses my cheek he slips right off! haha!   He says I put more oil on my face than a chef does in his cooking.  And let me tell you something, it has literally changed my pores and structure of my skin cells.  I kid you not.  My face looks younger and more vibrant today than when I was 21 years old.  Believe me, I am waaaay older than you may think.

I am of course obsessed with all skin care and organic products are the way to go by far, but essential oils and carrier oils (natural oils that “carry” the nutrients of essential oils into the skin) are my way of life.  That alone is why I decided to start this blog.  I want to share all of my experiences in skin care with you.

There are some fabulous skin oils on the market these days.  Some of my favorites are Clarins, Dior, Decleor, Darphin, Body Shop, Arkopharma and Dr. Hauschka.  These are all different face oils that serve different purposes.  Make sure to check them out.

Clarins “Huile Lotus” oil for oily or mixed skin. Purifies facial skin and regulates the production of fat.

Decléor “Aromassence Neroli” serum of essential oils of neroli, sandalwood, sage. This oil restores radiance of your complexion.

Darphin “Nectar & Flowers” oil that makes your skin look younger and lighterDecléor “Aromassence Neroli” serum of essential oils of neroli, sandalwood, sage. This oil restores radiance of your complexion.

Dior “Huile Douceur Démaquillante Express” oil in contact with the skin turns into an emulsion that dissolves even the most resilient make-up.

Dr Hauschka “Facial oil” Face Oil with light formula designed specifically for oily skin. It balances the skin of the face and normalize sebum production.

The Body Shop Coconut oil for body, face and hair, available in nine different scents.

Arkopharma “Arko esencial oil of Argan” hydrates and rejuvenates the skin and hair.

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In Love With Pai Organics!

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Today is such a beautiful day!!! I just want to share one of my favorite organic skin care brands with you!  Pai!  It is the absolute best!! I have tried many of their samples and I was so impressed. I love everything about this company.  Especially its ethics!!  Even their website is pretty and simple. […]

My Skin Oil Obsession!

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My oh my how I love my face oils….Anyone who knows me will tell you that they are my life.  I am completely obsessed.  Honestly, organic oils have completely changed the look and feel of my skin.  As you get to know me, you will think I need to go to “oil rehab”.  HaHa !! I will begin to post the most luxurious pictures and I will someday provide you with my own blend of face oils.  There are many I have tried, and I will share those in later posts.  I just wanted to wet your appetite for “sweet” things to come!! Nite sweeties!! Be Blessed!

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