Pomegranate (Punica granatum) Pomegranates have been symbols of prosperity, fertility and abundance since antiquity. Leonardo da Vinci painted them. They appear in Greek mythology and as decorations in King Solomon’s Temple. Queen Hatshepsut even buried her butler with one. Pomegranates make a yellow dye that has been used for Persian carpets and Moroccan leather. And … Read more
I love the power inside simple flowers. Modern cosmetic researchers are looking at the overlooked flowers that we see in daily life. Take a journey by British rail in the Summer and you’ll spot Buddleja growing alongside the rails and in cracks in old buildings. Gorgeous purple flowers on long stems. They give off a … Read more
What is retinol? Retinol is a synthetic form of Vitamin A touted by dermatologists for its anti-ageing power. It’s used to reduce wrinkles, zits and hyperpigmentation by rapidly increases cell turnover. This leads to thinning of the upper layers of skin, leading to dryness, redness, flaking, peeling as well as increased light sensitivity. This is … Read more
Psoriasis Psoriasis is estimated to affect about a million people in the UK. Aromatherapists, by the very nature of their profession, encounter skin issues on a daily basis. Like most skin conditions, there tends to be no quick easy cure, as the skin condition is a reflection of deeper internal issues that need to be … Read more
Natural remedies for Eczema (Dermatitis) Eczema is a problem for 10% of the population. The name is derived from a Greek word meaning ‘to boil’. What an apt description of a skin rash which is inflamed, red, itchy and possibly weeping and scabbed. Many opt for corticosteroid creams which promise short term relief, but … Read more
If you’ve reached ‘that stage’ of life when your skin is not quite as comfortable as it used to be, you may well be asking what skincare is best for dry skin. Well the good news, is that you can use the power of aromatherapy to help your dry skin and boost your wellbeing. And … Read more
Another little-spoken-about aspect of menopause is back pain. And now that working from home is a Thing, I’m guessing back pain is going to be on the increase. Back pain is horrible. It makes simple things like loading the dishwasher or putting on socks an agony. And it’s a real damper on mood. The good … Read more
If Rapunzel was in perimenopause, she wouldn’t have enough hair to make a climbing rope for the Prince. One of the less talked about aspects of menopause is the shock of hair loss and hair thinning… ugh. I’ve been through it, and tried out ways to reduce the loss, so keep reading if this is … Read more
Hello! If you like listening to podcasts while you work-out, commute or do chores, then try out my Aspie in Menopause podcast. It’s not only for Aspies but it is for those concerned about staying well through their midlife. Menopause isnt a topic we know much about – well other than the jokes of … Read more
What are Bach Flower Remedies? They’re gentle natural extracts made from flowers and trees. The original 38 remedies were developed in the 1920’s and 30’s by Dr Edward Bach who noted their power to help with emotions. Bach Flower Essences are energy remedies. They work to disrupt negative energy states or vibrations. They are non-toxic … Read more
If Africa had to pick a wonder extract, it would be Baobab Oil. Not only is the tree full of mythical lore but it’s such an iconic shape. It’s been featured in movies (Madagascar) The first time I remember seeing a Baobab tree was in the Durban Botancial gardens. I was studing at the University … Read more
Some skincare ingredients have exotic names, like Moroccan Argan and Tunisian Orange Blossom. Others are less glitzy, but powerful in an understated way like a classic Little Black Dress. One of these unsung heroes is Vitamin B3. Yes it’s what your skin craves! It’s also called Niacinamide and is a key part of skincare for … Read more