Author

Angelique Rauschenbach

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In Low Tox Life

The Hidden Dangers of Greenwashing

Greenwashing:

“Greenwashing, also called “green sheen”, is a form of marketing spin in which green PR and green marketing are deceptively used to persuade the public that an organization’s products, aims and policies are environmentally friendly.“

Yikes! Thanks Wikepedia.

I wish I knew about this 25 years ago when I had my first baby.

I eventually figured it out, but it wasn’t because somebody told me.

So here I am today to let you know, just in case you’ve never heard of it!

GREENWASHING

Greenwashing has been around probably as long as we’ve had people waking up and realising that the products they were putting on their family weren’t really that nice.

Companies recognised a trend that mummas and care-givers were looking for natural solutions and environmentally friendly products, especially those with little ones that were struggling with conditions like asthma and eczema. So they rebranded their products, or came up with some new ones, that would be more appealing and sell well in the market.

Sadly, greenwashing is a ploy to make you think you’re doing the right thing, using “natural” products, but when you dig a little deeper and research the ingredient list, you find out that what you thought you were putting on your brand new baby, isn’t “organic” at all and it’s actually really bad for the environment.

Yep, that was me. I trusted the company and brand because the label said things like “100% pure” and “organic”. It had a pretty picture of a cute baby and a serene earth and I thought, this HAS to be natural.

I was horrified to discover that what I was putting on my little one had ingredients that were linked to infertility, hormone disruption, asthma, neurological problems and skin allergies.

From that moment on I decided to always look closer and make sure the company truly delivers a product that is safe and beneficial to me, my family and the planet.

So how do you feel about greenwashing?

Let me know down below.

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In Nutrition

Nutritional Benefits of Strawberries

Strawberries are such a delightful fruit and homegrown, oh my goodness, there is nothing that beats that sweet, juicy taste. We love them in smoothies, as a topper for acai bowls, yoghurt and granola and even just on their own!

Remember to wash thoroughly if you are not buying organic or growing your own. Unfortunately, strawberries are one of the most heavily sprayed fruits in commercial growing.

See here for a list of the Dirty Dozen.

And here are some of the amazing health benefits of strawberries..

VITAMIN C

Vitamin C is an antioxidant that helps protect your cells against free-radical damage and it helps form and maintain bones, skin, and blood vessels.

MANGANESE

Manganese helps the body form connective tissue, bones, blood clotting factors, and sex hormones. It also plays a role in fat and carbohydrate metabolism, calcium absorption and blood sugar regulation. Manganese is also necessary for normal brain and nerve function.

FOLATE

Folate is an essential B vitamin that is necessary for the production of red and white blood cells in bone marrow, producing DNA and RNA and transforming carbohydrates into energy.

POTASSIUM

Potassium helps the body maintain normal levels of intracellular fluid and it also helps muscles to contract, supporting normal blood pressure.

Do you love strawberries?

Have you tried growing them at home?

Let me know if they are your favourite fruit!

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In Low Tox Life

2022 Dirty Dozen Food List

Once upon a time we didn’t call food organic or non-organic, it was just food.

Can we all just go back to that please?

It bothers me that organic farmers have to prove their organic-ness and pay for organic accreditation just so we, the consumers, know their food is just as nature intended. Shouldn’t it be the other way round?

I’m not an agricultural expert by any means but I have grown my own and know all too well the effort it takes to produce a crop without the use of synthetic pesticides.

And that’s just for my little backyard garden!

So, why do we want to avoid these nasty chemicals in the first place?

Pesticides are toxic chemicals designed to kill agricultural pests and unfortunately when consumed by humans have been linked to cancer, Alzheimer’s Disease, ADHD and even birth defects.

THE DIRTY DOZEN AND CLEAN 15

The EWG’s Shopper’s Guide to Pesticides in Produce™ (aka Dirty Dozen and Clean 15) is updated each year and ranks pesticide contamination on 47 popular fruits and vegetables.

While this isn’t Aussie specific, it does give you a very good indication of the types of fruits and vegetables that are the most hard hit.

We don’t want to avoid any fruits and vegetables, so if you can’t buy local and organic, opt for an all natural fruit and veggie wash like the Thieves Fruit and Veggie Soak as a great alternative.

We actually use it even on our organic bought produce and it’s surprising to see what’s left in the water and the difference it makes to the longevity of our fresh food.

SUPPORTING LOCAL FARMERS

Many local farmers grow their crops using all or mostly organic practices but aren’t big enough, or simply choose not to, pay for accreditation. It makes sense to get to know them and ask them how they do things so that you can happily buy their produce and feel good knowing you are not only supporting them but also giving your family high quality and nutrient dense local foods.

Do you know where your local organic market is?

Or are you growing your own!

Let me know in the comments.

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In Recipes

My Super Fresh Strawberry and Mint Sorbet Recipe

Summer is officially over but it’s not too cool to still enjoy a freshly made strawberry and mint sorbet.

This recipe ticks all the boxes if you are needing something sweet and tasty but you want to make it at home quickly and easily without any silly chemicals or unhealthy ingredients.

There is the option to add a little refined caster sugar or rapadura if you want to but the strawberries, mint and apple are quite sweet on their own.

I needed to supplement my homegrown strawberries at the market with this recipe as I’m not producing as much right now. I also grabbed some beautiful organic apples to juice up.

My mint is growing great guns however, so I was super excited to add that in to the recipe.

HERE’S WHAT YOU NEED

  • 250 – 280g of strawberries (you can use frozen)
  • 3/4 cup ice cubes
  • 60 mL organic apple juice
  • 1/4 cup coarsely chopped fresh mint
  • 1 tsp caster or rapadura sugar (optional)

METHOD

  1. Blend all ingredients together until your desired consistency.
  2. Add a little water or extra juice if you need it smoother.

Want to know the nutritional benefits of strawberries?

Check out this post here.

And if you’d like to know the latest Dirty Dozen and Clean 15 list for 2022, go here.

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In Essential Oils

12 Reasons to Love Lavender Essential Oil

Lavender is such an underrated essential oil, maybe because it’s so readily available!

Do you have some at home? Most people do.

Or maybe you have a grandma who used to grow it in her garden..

12 REASONS TO LOVE LAVENDER

  1. Lavender works on serotonin receptors in the body to help balance the mood. It has been used to treat anxiety and depression and it helps to calm the nerves. Use it after a long day when you feel mentally and physically drained and any time you need to de-stress.
  2. Lavender helps regulate sleep patterns and prepares the body for a restful night’s sleep. Insomnia is a common issue today and studies have shown that the chemical structure of lavender may increase time spent in deep, slow-wave sleep. Sprinkle a few drops on your pillow or diffuse at bedtime.
  3. Lavender is soothing and balancing to the skin. Use it on itchy bites or any areas that are red or inflamed. Skin disorders such as eczema and psoriasis may also benefit from lavender’s soothing nature. Use it to hydrate irritated and sensitive skin.
  4. Lavender naturally contains antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties and can be a useful ally during seasonal changes. Dilute and apply topically alongside the nose, sinus, throat and chest area and try a swipe along the inside of cheek. Be sure to always only use the absolute purest and unadulterated essential oils. Most on the market are not what they say they are!
  5. Lavender helps fight infections with its natural antiseptic and antifungal properties. Keep it on hand to treat minor cuts, scrapes, irritations and burns. Lavender essential oil is also great for when you’ve been a little too kissed by the sun. Combine with aloe vera or use on its own.
  6. Lavender promotes hair growth by protecting the hair follicles from oxidative stress. Add it to your all natural hair care routine to nourish the scalp, or try out this Mermaid Waves Hair Spray recipe!
  7. Lavender helps to relax the muscles, reducing discomfort in the body. Dilute and apply topically to any areas that need support. Apply to the temples and breathe in the aroma to help alleviate a tight headache. (Try peppermint if your headache is of the pounding variety).
  8. Lavender can even out skin tone and help reduce redness. It may also help to prevent scarring by promoting cell and tissue growth. Lavender helps to balance acne prone skin.
  9. Lavender helps promote collagen synthesis and stimulates fibroblasts, making it a good choice for wound healing. Quick application post-injury can also reduce bruising. Try making a cool compress.
  10. Lavender has antioxidant properties that protect the skin from environmental stressors like pollution and UV rays that accelerate the skin’s aging process. Use it in your favourite organic moisturiser or make a facial spritz and use any time of the day.
  11. Lavender supports respiratory and immune health. Use it alongside eucalyptus and frankincense (or on its own) during times of physical exhaustion or anytime you need to breathe deeply and easily.
  12. Lavender is a true adaptogen bringing peace and calm to you and your personal space. Breathe in straight from the bottle or diffuse in your favourite ultrasonic diffuser for lasting, healing benefits.

THE IMPORTANCE OF PURE

Lavender is such a readily available and abundant herb that you don’t have to look far to find the essential oil on the shelves. Unfortunately there is no governing body that ensures that what you purchase is actually what’s written on the label. Many manufacturers cut corners, adulterate and synthetically manipulate their “essential oils” to reduce costs but at the end of the day you are left with a product that has no therapeutic value and can even cause more harm then good!

If you have ever received a headache from smelling Lavender essential oil, it may very well be because it was synthetically put together or had a synthetic component added to it. It really pays to know where your oils come from and how the plants are farmed, harvested and distilled.

ALL NATURAL BEAUTY WITH LAVENDER ESSENTIAL OIL

Here are some recipes for you to try that incorporate the soothing and healing benefits of this gentle oil.

Mermaid Waves Hair Spray

Lavender-Infused Dry Shampoo

Royal Hawaiian Face Serum

OTHER RESOURCES

I have a free Essential Oils Course that goes through the basics of essential oils, how to use them safely, how to save money and everyday uses for your home, beauty, health and more!

I also have a discount code for you if you’d like to try the same superior quality essential oils that I use.

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In Essential Oils

Royal Hawaiian Face Serum

Nourishing your skin can be so simple using pure ingredients that promote a natural, healthy glow.

In this recipe we will be using a selection of the finest quality essential oils to moisturise and tend to the delicate needs of your facial skin and décolletage area while making you feel a million dollars.

Creating your own spa treatments at home can be so simple and affordable.

HERE’S WHAT YOU NEED:

  • 2 drops Lavender essential oil
  • 2 drops Manuka essential oil
  • 2 drops Frankincense essential oil
  • 2 drops Geranium essential oil
  • 2 drops Royal Hawaiian Sandalwood essential oil
  • 60 mL pure Jojoba oil

METHOD

  1. Add all essential oils to a 60 mL glass dropper bottle.
  2. Top up with jojoba oil.
  3. Carefully invert back and forth to mix all ingredients.
  4. Use a small amount day and night after cleansing skin.
  5. Can be used on its own or before your favourite organic moisturiser.

NEW TO ESSENTIAL OILS?

Use my discount code 1706951 here.

And be sure to check out my free Essential Oils Course that goes through the basics of essential oils, how to use them safely, how to save money and everyday uses for your home, beauty, health and more!

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In Essential Oils

Lavender-Infused Dry Shampoo

Washing your hair after a hectic day is extremely satisfying and can even be part of your self-care practice. However washing too often can leave it prone to dryness and breakage. Have you ever experienced this?

Greasy or dirty hair never feels nice, so a great alternative in between washes is dry shampoo.

DID YOU KNOW?

Most conventional dry shampoo brands contain toxic ingredients that can cause allergic reactions, fertility problems and even cancer. This is another product on the shelves that needs to be avoided but thankfully you can make your own!

HERE’S WHAT YOU NEED:

  • ¼ cup cornstarch
  • 1 tablespoon baking soda
  • 2 drops Cedarwood essential oil
  • 2 drops Rosemary essential oil
  • 1 drop Tea Tree essential oil
  • 2 tablespoons unsweetened cacao powder (for dark hair only)

METHOD:

  • Combine all ingredients in a bowl, adding the cacao powder one tablespoon at a time until desired colour is reached.
  • Put in a container of your choice and apply with a makeup brush.
  • Leave for 2–3 minutes to absorb hair’s natural oils.
  • Brush through hair and style as desired.

Dry shampoo adds texture and keeps your hair feeling fresh for longer. It can even be used to help style your hair and give it some lift when it’s feeling a little flat.

Have you tried dried shampoo before?

Let me know if you try this recipe!

NEW TO ESSENTIAL OILS?

Use my discount code 1706951 here.

And be sure to check out my free Essential Oils Course that goes through the basics of essential oils, how to use them safely, how to save money and everyday uses for your home, beauty, health and more!

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In Essential Oils

Mermaid Waves Hair Spray

We all want lushious locks that we can be proud of but we also don’t want to sacrifice our health for beauty, right?

This all natural recipe is just the thing to show your hair some love and leave it smelling beautiful.

If you are looking for that ‘beach wave’ look, keep reading to the end to discover the secret ingredient.

HERE’S WHAT YOU NEED:

  • 10 drops Cedarwood essential oil
  • 10 drops Rosemary essential oil
  • 10 drops Lavender essential oil
  • 5 drops Geranium essential oil
  • 5 drops Ylang Ylang essential oil
  • Alcohol-free Witch Hazel

METHOD:

  1. Add all essential oils to a 120 mL glass spray bottle.
  2. Fill with the witch hazel and shake gently to mix.
  3. Spritz lightly on to damp hair and work into scalp.

THE SECRET INGREDIENT:

Do you ever wish you could create the perfect beach waves at home, even when you are no where near the beach?

Here’s the secret ingredient to add to your new Mermaid Waves hair spray…

Sea Salt!

Yep, that’s it. I guess it’s not too hard to understand why.

Simply add a pinch to your spray bottle before filling up with witch hazel and apply in the same way.

You can also add to dry hair and scrunch for extra beach waves.

DON’T HAVE ACCESS TO HIGH QUALITY ESSENTIAL OILS?

Use my discount code 1706951 here.

And be sure to check out my free Essential Oils Course that goes through the basics of essential oils, how to use them safely, how to save money and everyday uses for your home, beauty, health and more!

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In Essential Oils

The Healing Benefits of Spearmint Essential Oil

TRADITIONAL USES

Spearmint has traditionally been used to improve digestion and increase the appetite.

BOTANICAL NAME

Mentha spicata

AROMA + BLENDING

Spearmint essential oil has a fresh, minty, sweet scent and blends well with Anise, Basil, Cedarwood, Eucalyptus, Lavender, Lemon, Lime, Grapefruit, Peppermint, Rosemary, Tangerine and Vanilla.

KEY QUALITIES

The Sweet Sister

Refreshing, carminative, restorative, stimulant (nervous and mental).

BODY SYSTEMS

Spearmint essential oil helps to support the following body systems:

  • Respiratory (sinus congestion, cough)
  • Lymphatic (fluid retention)
  • Digestive (nausea, flatulence, constipation, diarrhoea, travel sickness)
  • Urinary (kidney stones)
  • Reproductive (heavy menstrual flow, leucorrhoea, excess milk supply)
  • Integumentary (itchy skin)
  • Nervous (mental fatigue, headaches)

MOOD + EMOTIONS

Spearmint essential oil has been used to uplift the mood and help to sharpen the senses. Spearmint helps to allay feelings of resentment and selfishness.

SPIRITUAL CONNECTIONS

Spearmint essential oil enhances feelings of calmness and compassion. Use it to bring more clarity of thought, focus and direction in your life.

PRECAUTIONS

Could antidote homeopathic remedies.

RECIPES USING SPEARMINT ESSENTIAL OIL

REST AND DIGEST MASSAGE BLEND

  • 4 drops Lavender essential oil
  • 3 drops Bergamot essential oil
  • 2 drops Spearmint essential oil
  • 2 drops Basil essential oil
  • 1 drops Roman Chamomile essential oil
  • 1 tbl vegetable carrier oil
  1. Combine the essential oils in a small glass amber bottle.
  2. Add the carrier oil and apply to the stomach area 1/2 hour before or after meals.

FRESH BREATH MOUTHWASH

  • 1 cup of distilled water
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • 2 drops Peppermint essential oil
  • 2 drops Spearmint essential oil
  • 1 drop Lemon essential oil
  1. Add the salt and baking soda to a small amount of warm distilled water.
  2. Mix to dissolve.
  3. Add the essential oils and the rest of distilled water.
  4. Bottle and label.
  5. Shake well before each use and for best results, make weekly.

OUTDOOR BBQ DIFFUSER BLEND

  • 2 drops Citronella
  • 2 drops Eucalyptus
  • 2 drops Spearmint

Add essential oils to your favourite ultrasonic diffuser and sit back and enjoy the therapeutic qualities of this beautiful blend. Use to uplift the atmosphere at your next BBQ and keep the bugs at bay.

ARE YOU BRAND NEW TO ESSENTIAL OILS?

I have a free Essential Oils Course that goes through the basics of essential oils, how to use them safely, how to save money and everyday uses for your home, beauty, health and more!

I also have a discount code for you if you’d like to try the same superior quality essential oils that I use.

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In Essential Oils

The Healing Benefits of Rosemary Essential Oil

TRADITIONAL USES

Rosemary has traditionally been used to break up congestion and ease breathing.

BOTANICAL NAME

Rosmarinus officinalis

AROMA + BLENDING

Rosemary essential oil has a strong, minty-herbaceous, woody-balsamic scent and blends well with Frankincense, Lavender, Citronella, Basil, Thyme, Pine, Peppermint, Elemi, Cedarwood, Petitgrain and spice oils.

KEY QUALITIES

The Memory Helper

Stimulant (nervous and mental), analgesic, tonic (to the nervous system), strengthening, restorative, purifying, protective, reviving, refreshing.

BODY SYSTEMS

Rosemary essential oil helps to support the following body systems:

  • Respiratory (colds, asthma, bronchitis)
  • Lymphatic/Immune (fluid retention, infections)
  • Digestive (liver congestion, hepatitis, cirrhosis, gallstones, jaundice, constipation, flatulence)
  • Cardiovascular (low blood pressure, poor circulation)
  • Musculoskeletal (arthritis, gout, rheumatism)
  • Integumentary (oily skin, acne, puffiness, sagging skin, dandruff, scalp discorders, poor hair growth)
  • Reproductive (menstrual cramps, dysmenorrhea, leukorrhea)
  • Nervous (vertigo, headaches, speech impediment, memory loss, neuralgia)

MOOD + EMOTIONS

Rosemary essential oil has been used to help with memory recall and to switch on the brain cells. Rosemary helps to allay feelings of confusion, indecision and nervous exhaustion.

SPIRITUAL CONNECTIONS

Rosemary essential oil enhances feelings of self-empowerment and creative inspiration. Use it to bring more clarity of thought, emotional strength and warmth to your life.

PRECAUTIONS

Avoid with high blood pressure or epilepsy.

RECIPES USING ROSEMARY ESSENTIAL OIL

SCALP TREATMENT FOR HAIR LOSS

  • 1 tbl Jojoba oil
  • 1 tbl Calendula infusion oil
  • 1/2 tsp Carrot Seed oil
  • 10 drops Lavender essential oil
  • 6 drops Clary Sage essential oil
  • 4 drops Cedarwood essential oil
  • 4 drops Rosemary essential oil
  1. Add the jojoba, calendula and carrot seed oil to a small glass amber bottle.
  2. Add the essential oils and gently mix.
  3. Label your bottle.
  4. Warm the oil before application by placing the bottle in a bowl of warm water.
  5. Massage a few drops into the scalp area and leave in to be absorbed.
  6. Apply several times weekly.

UNDER THE WEATHER STEAM INHALATION

  • 4 cups of hot water
  • 4 drops Hyssop essential oil
  • 3 drops Rosemary essential oil
  • 3 drops Peppermint essential oil
  • 3 drops Eucalyptus essential oil
  • 3 drops Lemon essential oil
  1. Add the essential oils to an amber glass dropper bottle.
  2. Pour the hot water into a ceramic or glass bowl and add 3-4 drops of prepared essential oil mix.
  3. Form a tent over your head with a towel and place your head approximately 20 cm from the water or whatever distance is comfortable for you.
  4. Inhale slowly and deeply while you breathe in the vapors for 10 minutes, keeping your eyes closed.
  5. Repeat 2-3 times per day or as necessary.

TERRA AUSTRALIS DIFFUSER BLEND

  • 2 drops Lavender
  • 2 drops Rosemary
  • 2 drops Kunzea

Add essential oils to your favourite ultrasonic diffuser and sit back and enjoy the therapeutic qualities of this beautiful blend. Use to bring the feeling and aroma of the Aussie bush into your home.

ARE YOU BRAND NEW TO ESSENTIAL OILS?

I have a free Essential Oils Course that goes through the basics of essential oils, how to use them safely, how to save money and everyday uses for your home, beauty, health and more!

I also have a discount code for you if you’d like to try the same superior quality essential oils that I use.

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