Really Natural

Natural Art Supplies that are Genuinely Non-Toxic and Sustainably Manufactured

2009-11-20T23:16:51Z

I truly believe that one of the best gifts you can give a child are art supplies; however, even though many kid art supplies carry the "non-toxic" label, they may not be truly sustainable or natural. Clementine Art's motto is "Non-toxic is just the beginning," and the company was born out of a children's art studio in Boulder, CO.

Clementine Art produces professional-quality and earth-friendly art supplies with pure, simple ingredients. Clementine's products are colored with plant and mineral pigments instead of artificial dyes, providing an innovative solution to chemical laden, artificially colored art supplies. Clementine Art's products do not contain any synthetic preservatives, animal byproducts, or petroleum bases, and Clementine is the first art product company to list all ingredients on its packages.

Considering how messy young children are when they create often getting supplies in their hair, skin, and even mouth, choosing quality natural products is key. The Clementine Art Holiday Eco-Art Gift Set contains:

Natural Soy Crayon Rocks

Natural Soy Crayons

Natural Glue

Natural Modeling Dough

The vivid colors of these art supplies are wonderful, and the crayon and rock shapes are perfect for little hands. The soy crayons and rock work better than traditional crayons, and I am in love with all of the products we tried. Furthermore, Clementine Art's packaging is made from recyclable and recycled content in a wind-powered facility.

Disclosure: We were sent a Clementine Art Holiday Eco-Art Gift Set to review without prior assurances of positive or negative opinions.

Eco-Friendly Sno Wovel Alternative to Polluting Snow Blowers

2009-11-19T06:45:00Z

Snow season is upon us, and often neighbors are envious of each others gas-powered, polluting snow blowers that ease the burden of shoveling sidewalks and driveways. An eco-friendly version is now available that will be the envy of those competing to be the greenest on their street: the Sno Wovel Wheeled Snow Shovel.

The Sno Wovel™ is the only non-combustion alternative snow removal device performing equal to or better than a snow blower...Shoveling and snow blower injuries result in approximately 100,000 serious emergency room visits annually in North America. Cumulative injuries affect millions, resulting in lost time and productivity for recovery - all of which are now preventable without sacrificing performance. The University of Massachusetts, one of the top U.S. ergonomic research centers, has released the results of an independent study verifying that use of the patented Sno Wovel wheel-based shovel results in a 3-4 times reduction in lower back stress and cardio exertion. The innovative wheeled design allows for effortless snow clearing on all types of surfaces while avoiding twisting, bending and post snowstorm muscle aches.

I do not personally own a Sno Wovel, nor have I tried one, but I think this is an ingenious invention. According to Eco Cycle, snow blowers "send 30 percent of the unburned fuel out with the exhaust." From noise pollution to greenhouse gas emission, traditional snow blowers are not good for the earth.

Environmental Books: Climate Cover-Up: The Crusade to Deny Global Warming

2009-11-18T06:00:00Z

Written by the some of the great folks at DeSmogBlog, Climate Cover-Up: The Crusade to Deny Global Warming explores how such a large portion of Americans have come to believe that climate change is just a hoax. Authors Hoggan and Littlemore explain how the climate "debate" is actually a "public relations creation" and support their claims with proof, including corporate strategy papers. Unfortunately, such debate "cripples public policy and paralyzes public action".

It seems that there are no safe compromises to be made in dealing with climate change. Denying it was wrong. Delaying action is dangerous. People who say otherwise should, at some point in the very near future, have to stand accountable for their recklessness.

It's time to drop the hype around climate change and deal with it now. Exposing those who are responsible for creating confusion on the issue, such as Exxon Mobil that "has funneled tens of millions of dollars into denial", is the first step, but it should also not hinder or confuse progress on true environmental policy. Thankfully, as Hogan and Littlemore write, "That tide is turning."

Pain Eased by Thoughts of Loved Ones

2009-11-17T06:05:00Z

In a recent study published in Psychological Science, the somewhat logical has been discovered: thinking of a loved one eases physical pain. The study's co-author Naomi Eisenberger, assistant professor of psychology at UCLA, explains in LiveScience:

This changes our notion of how social support influences people. Typically, we think that in order for social support to make us feel good, it has to be the kind of support that is very responsive to our emotional needs. Here, however, we are seeing that just a photo of one's significant other can have the same effect.

Using psychological support to ease pain is a natural approach anyone can adopt, reaffirming the importance of love in our lives. I imagine even the love of a pet can substitute when human relationships go awry.

This Isn't the Caramel Apple of Your Youth (It's Also Not Organic)

2009-11-16T15:32:43Z

You have until Monday, November 23, 2009 to order one of these unique Caramel Apples from Mrs. Prindables in time for Thanksgiving. Loaded with chocolate, almonds, and peanut butter chips, this apple serves between eight to ten people. Mrs. Prindables also makes gourmet gift baskets.

My family tried one of the Autumn Wreath Jumbo Apples. My deprived children had never had a caramel apple before, and they didn't know what to expect. This apple is so loaded with chocolate and peanut butter chips, it's hard to find the apple inside. It's a good thing a tart granny smith is inside to counter that sweetness on the outside. In my opinion, it's a little (OK, a lot) too much. My children enjoyed it, but this apple is not made from organic ingredients and contains corn syrup (not high fructose).

Disclosure: I was sent this product for review at no cost. No assurances were given as to whether the review would be positive or negative in exchange for the product.

2009 Green Holiday Gift Guide by Really Natural

2009-11-13T21:14:04Z

Whether you celebrate a religious or pagan holiday, the winter festivities are rapidly approaching. During the days of shorter light and the returning of the sun, giving gifts to loved ones and friends that are both sustainable, affordable,and unique is much easier than it was just five years ago. The following is a list of our favorite natural products we have reviewed in 2009 and highly recommend to you for their quality and value. Although you can't really put a price on sustainability, we all have to live within our budgets. You can always review our monthly round-ups or past eco-friendly holiday gift guides to get even more great green gift ideas

Green Home

Green, Eco-Friendly Non-Stick, Non-Scratch Extreme Temperature Ceramic Cookware: Finally, there is a safe, green alternative in non-stick, non-scratch cookware. Cermacor's Xtrema cookware is amazing! From saucepans to tea kettles, "Xtrema is healthier than any other cookware and we have documented scientific and laboratory testing to prove it." There are many, many benefits to Xtrema, beside avoiding teflon or aluminum.

First Made in the USA Filtered Stainless Steel Water Bottle by EcoUsable: n the great reusable water bottle debate, Kleen Kanteen is always criticized for being made in China, and Sigg has fessed up to having BPA in its epoxy liner all along. Finally, there is a stainless steel water bottle made in the USA, and it has a bonus feature of filtration! EcoUsable 25oz Filtered Water Bottle - Stainless Swirl is so cool! It is the absolutely best stainless steel water bottle on the market that I have found, and the filter will last for approximately 12 months.

Durable, Beautiful, Eco-Friendly, 100% Organic Bamboo Rugs: Are you looking for a unique, eco-friendly rug for your home? A bamboo rug may be just what you are looking for to add to your home decor. Simple, durable, and beautiful, these moso bamboo rugs have a non-slip pad on the bottom that works on any floor surface (concrete, wood, tile, carpet, etc.). Bamboo rugs are also easy to clean and an be used outdoors, as well as high traffic areas.

World's Only Naturally Memory Foam Ergonomic Pillow by Essentia: Essentia makes the world's only natural memory foam and is a member of 1% for the Planet. Essentia products have zero toxic chemicals or emissions and uses glue and adhesive free technology.

Himalayan Salt Crystal Lamp Improves Indoor Air Quality: I love Himalayan salt, and I've always been curious about salt lamps. I think they are really beautiful and create a nice ambiance in a room, but I didn't know that they actually clean the air.

Fashion

Icebreaker Stylish Merino Wool Shirts for Men and Women: Icebreaker is a sustainable company from product to packaging. Each step of the process (source, ethical manufacturing, transparent supply chain, and animal welfare) is part of the company's philosophy. They even add a compound to their plastic bags to assist in "oxo-biodegration" should the bags end up in a landfill rather than be recycled.

Natural Smart Wool Socks are Cool, Warm, and Funky: I am one of those people that is plagued by cold feet (I blame my mom for smoking when she was pregnant with me and negatively affecting my circulation). I don't like itchy wool socks, but I don't like synthetics fabrics either. Smartwool Socks are the perfect solution. These socks are 86% wool, 13% nylon, and 1% elastic. The nylon keeps them from being itchy, and for that, I will tolerate a little synthetic fiber in my socks. The high content of wool works as natural odor control (I should get my daughter a pair), temperature regulation (keeps your feet warm when it's cold, and cool when it's hot), and wicks moisture away from sweaty feet.

Organic Designer Jeans by Joe's Jeans: Designer jeans are the raging trend, and yes, they are expensive. If you are going to spend a lot of money on a pair of jeans, they ought to be organic. Joe's Jeans makes their famous Socialite style in an organic cotton fabric. These stylish jeans are 98% organic cotton 2% elastane.

Eco-Friendly Yoga Apparal by BuddhiWear: I'm Just Here for Savasana: It's true, my favorite asana is savasana. This final relaxation as a corpse is the perfect ending to any yoga practice, and now I've discovered an organic, eco-friendly top by BuddhiWear to express my love for savasana. The Women's Buddhiwear "I'm Just Here For Savasana" Long Sleeve Scoop Neck Organic T-Shirt is lightweight, super soft, and comfortably fitted. Since BuddhiWear's clothing is 100% organic, each shirt saves 1/3 pound of chemicals from entering our soil, air, and water.

Upcycled Eco-Friendly Jewelry on Etsy by Squishy Sushi: I've discovered an affordable, unique eco-friendly jewelry maker on Etsy: Squishy Sushi.
My background is in graphic design but I have recently begun designing jewelry as well. All of my pieces have an asian flair to them and are made from recycled papers and other jewelry findings. As a graphic artist, I'm drawn to beautiful bits of printed material and enjoy mixing them with other media. All pieces are hand crafted by me in my studio, in San Francisco, California.

Baby and Kids

Handmade Himalayan Wool Baby Booties by JelliBee Baby: Cheerfully bright, perfectly warm, and beautifully formed, these felted wool booties make a fitting baby gift. All natural, organic materials, handmade in the foothills of the Himalayas. Made in accordance with Fair Trade practices and green processes, these booties have little tootsies feeling good, while you are doing good.

Green Toys 100% Recycled Plastic Tea Set: The Green Toys Tea Set is made in the USA from 100% curbside collected, recycled plastic milk jugs. Knowing this product is made from curbside collected plastic gives me peace of mind, considering I know it was part of closing the loop, as well as I am assured these toys are not made from industrial waste plastic. Besides being made of recycled materials, this tea set is sure to enchant your child (no matter the gender), as we have experienced in our home. Who doesn't love a tea party?

No Batteries: Haba Terra Kids LED Lantern Makes Real or Play Camping Fun: Haba's Terra Kids Camping Lantern fits the bill, as it requires no batteries and encourages children to include camping in their dramatic play, as well want to get outside during night time hours (of course, under adult supervision). This lantern has a compass on the top, a lightweight carabiner for clipping onto backpacks, and is powered by a hand crank. Just three minutes of cranking produces one hour of light, which also makes this toy useful in case of power outages.

Eco-Friendly, Recycled Toys by Sprig Toys: This toy is made from recycled plastic in Europe (Czech Republic) and contains no paints. It's durable, perfect for sand play, and comes with minimal packaging. Sprig Toys, Inc., is an eco-friendly company dedicated to making the best toys the right way.

Sweet Organic Baby Clothes by Hessnatur: We've been fortunate enough to review beautiful natural fiber clothing by Hessnatur before, now we have discovered their organic baby apparel line! Super sweet, soft, and adorable, Hessnatur's organic baby line means everyone in the family can dress in eco-fashion. Hessnatur is always fair trade, organic, and sustainable, which is exactly what baby deserves against their fresh, delicate skin.

Aurora Naturally Plush Toys Made from Soy and Kapok Win Toy Award: Aurora Naturally Plush Toys are eco-friendly stuffed animals. The exterior of these toys is made from 100% soy fiber, and the stuff comes from kapok seed pods, a sustainable rainforest crop. Recently, Aurora Naturally Plush won 2008 BabyZone.com Amazing Toy Award.

Beauty

Safely Relieve Common Pregnancy Skin Problems of Acne and Itchy Skin with Belli Pregnancy: This is a wonderful lotion that uses lemon oil, chamomile, and shea butter to provide lasting relief for itchy skin. When I was pregnant, I was plagued with an itchy back from my growing, stretching skin, and no lotion could provide relief. I am not pregnant now, but this lotion did a wonderful job on my dry fall/winter hands. This product received a score of three out of ten for toxicity by the Environmental Working Group.

Kiss My Face Natural and Organic Shimmers and Shines for Kissable Lips: Kiss My Face's newest natural, organic products are for your lips! Sheer Organic Shine and Sheer Organic Shimmer are 100% natural, 91% organic, and made from natural minerals. Vitamins A and E help protect and heal your lips, and the colors are beautiful. There are six shades of "glorious glosses" and six "tempting tints". They even contain stevia!

Books

Vegetarian Cookbook: Vegan Lunch Box Around the World: Of course, the recipes aren't limited to lunches, and this cookbook is super user-friendly. The layout is aesthetically pleasing, and each recipe includes allergen information. The color photographs are beautiful, and I like how Jennifer includes regional American recipes as part of the international flare, making this vegan cookbook truly universal for any nationality. From mango noodles to caramelized squash and apples, your child will be the envy of the whole school with these lunch box goodies.

Green Children's Literature: The Barefoot Book of Earth Tales: Children deserve to be read to and sharing literature is a great way to learn appreciation for our Earth. The Barefoot Book of Earth Tales (One World, One Planet) is a collection of stories and activities to inspire your family to become a "thoughtful caretaker of our planet".

Zen and the Art of Green Body Cleaning: Clean Body: The Humble Art of Zen-Cleansing Yourself is an amazing little book about green beauty care. According to author Michael Dejong, you only need five ingredients to take care of you body needs. From cuticle conditioning to toothpaste, everything is contained in this highly organized book.

Promote Backyard Biodiversity with Native Plants: Written by Douglas W. Tallamy, Bringing Nature Home: How You Can Sustain Wildlife with Native Plants, Updated and Expanded explains how you can bring more wildlife into your backyard by planting native plants. Even just a few native plants can help you become a backyard ecologist. This book contains extensive lists of native plants for regional habitats, as well as incredible photographs.

Select an Organic, Free Range, Antibiotic Free Turkey this Thanksgiving

2009-11-13T02:15:00Z

Thanksgiving is just a week away, and you may be wondering what kind of bird to serve (if you serve a bird at all). The domestication of the turkey is actually a sad story in the history of poultry. In fact, genetic selection for conformity and weight have resulted in a industry in which artificial insemination is the norm and "natural mating is virtually impossible". Barbara Kingsolver shares her amusing tale in turkey breeding in Animal, Vegetable, Miracle, but not many birds are so lucky. Besides problems with natural procreation, the poultry industry produces between two to four billion pounds of feather waste each year!

Around Thanksgiving time, the old adage "You are what you eat" rings true, thus you should select an organic, free range, antibiotic free turkey. Consider these free range turkey facts:

According to the United States Department of Agriculture, the single condition for the term 'free-range' is that birds have access to the outdoors. All other facets of a free-range turkey's life can be indistinguishable from the living conditions of a conventional-raised bird.

To prevent free-roaming birds from injuring each other in the grow-out quarters, a portion of their beaks and toes are severed without the aid of anesthesia. Ian J.H. Duncan, a professor of Poultry Ethology at the University of Guelph in Canada, says "the idea of beak trimming being a short-lived discomfort for the bird may be far from accurate. The short and long-term changes in behavior, particularly the substantial decrease in activities involving the beak and the increase in inactivity particularly in the first week after the operation, suggests that the birds are suffering severe pain."

Free-range turkeys are slaughtered between 14 and 25 weeks of age. Reaching 'slaughter-age', turkeys are transported via multi-tiered, flat-bed trucks in overcrowded wire cages, enduring all types of weather conditions. Arriving at the slaughterhouse, the fully-conscious birds are hung by their legs and their throats are slashed. The Humane Slaughter Act and Animal Welfare Act exempt turkeys from legal protection.

Do your homework and buy a bird that has truly lived in ethical conditions before it ends up on your table, or you could avoid the bird altogether and have a vegan Thanksgiving.

Green, Eco-Friendly Non-Stick, Non-Scratch Extreme Temperature Ceramic Cookware

2009-11-11T16:00:06Z

Finally, there is a safe, green alternative in non-stick, non-scratch cookware. Cermacor's Xtrema cookware is amazing! From saucepans to tea kettles, "Xtrema is healthier than any other cookware and we have documented scientific and laboratory testing to prove it." There are many, many benefits to Xtrema, beside avoiding teflon or aluminum:

Xtreme High Temperature: Cookware can withstand 2,700 F, Steel can melt at 2,200 F

Xtremely Easy to Clean: Non-Scratch, Non-Toxic Ceramic Glaze Surface

Xtremely Attractive: High Gloss Black Finish

Xtremely Versatile: Oven, Stovetop, Broiler, Freezer, Barbeque Grill, Microwave Oven, Dishwasher and Dining Room Table

Xtremely Healthy Cooking: No Trace Metals or Chemicals Leaching from the Cooking Surface

Xtremely Practical: Reduces Cooking Time and Uses Less Energy, Foods Stay Hotter Longer

Xtremely Tasty: Ceramic Far Infrared Cooking Enhances the Food Flavor and the Entire Cooking Experience

Xtremely Durable: Cooking Surface can not be Scratched, even by Metal Utensils and Industrial Steel Wool

Extrema cookware is handcrafted in China, taking 22 days from start to finish:

The Chinese artisans have been handcrafting ceramics for over 5,000 years and we believe in providing the consumer with the very best in product quality and that is why we decided to have our product made where the finest ceramics in the world are made and that is in mainland China.

My family tested out a Three Piece 20 Oz Retro Tea Set and pie plate. We love Xtrema. It is the best green cookware on the market, and I highly recommend it! It's super easy to clean, and I am assured my family is not being poisoned by the very cookware our food is prepared in.

Disclosure: I was given the tea set and pie plate in order to test the products to write this review. There were no advance assurances given as to whether the review would be positive or negative.

Icebreaker Stylish Merino Wool Shirts for Men and Women

2009-11-10T17:01:16Z

I often think of Icebreaker garments as a base layering piece for cold weather play, and I especially love their eco-friendly kids' line; however, this New Zealand company makes some gorgeous, stylish clothes as well.

Icebreaker SuperFine150 Detour Polo Shirt - Short-Sleeve - Men's: This shirt is very hip, with subtle stitch details. The ultralite fabric is perfect for warm to hot weather, as it "breaths as well as cotton but won't hold odour - so you can wear it for days without having to wash it". This shirt also looks nice with a longsleeve shirt layered underneath. Certain colors and styles are on sale right now too!

Icebreaker Superfine 140 Henley Lite Shirt - Women's: This shirt is also made of superfine ultralite merino wool, which is not itchy at all and versatile for any weather conditions. The slight ruching and 3/4 sleeves gives this top a flattering, feminine shape.

Icebreaker is a sustainable company from product to packaging. Each step of the process (source, ethical manufacturing, transparent supply chain, and animal welfare) is part of the company's philosophy. They even add a compound to their plastic bags to assist in "oxo-biodegration" should the bags end up in a landfill rather than be recycled.

Disclosure: I was given the above described products in order to complete this authentic review. No guarantees as to the positive or negative nature of the review in exchange for this product.

England Names 10 New Nuclear Sites

2009-11-09T18:10:53Z

England aims to increase its nuclear power to 40% of energy production by 2025. Ten new sites have been named demonstrating the government's commitment "nuclear electricity generation". Renewable energy will account for 30% of England's energy by 2020 under the new policy. The Telegraph explains:

Mr Miliband said: "The threat of climate change means we need to make a transition from a system that relies heavily on high-carbon fossil fuels to a radically different system that includes nuclear, renewable and clean-coal power.

Similar moves to approve new nuclear sites are occurring in the United States with Florida endorsing its first nuclear power plant in 33 years.

Reusable Baggu X3 Shopping Bags Go With You Anywhere and Make Great Gift Wrap

2009-11-05T19:30:00Z

One of the things I love about the Baggu X3 Reusable Shopping Bags, besides the tough ripstop nylon fabric, is the convenient pouch that contains three bags. This pouch makes it easy to throw your Baggu bags in any purse or bag and ensures you will never run out of bags when shopping. Sure, it is relatively easy to remember your shopping bags at the grocery store, but what about your other errands? Having a few bags in your purse, pocket, or backpack means you never use a plastic bag again. Each Baggu bag can hold up to 50 pounds of merchandise.

Another great use of Baggu X3 Reusable Shopping Bags is wrapping presents! With the holidays approaching, using a reusable shopping bag instead of gift wrap is like giving two gifts! It also gives a subtle hint to loved ones that it is time to break the plastic bag habit. With all of the bright colors and designs Baggu offers, your presents will look great.

Disclosure: Baggu provided me with X3 shopping bags in order to complete this review. No assurances were given in advance as to whether the review would be positive or negative.

Wildlife Crimes in Britain Push Some Species Close to Extinction

2009-11-05T06:20:00Z

Britain's wildlife is troubled by crime. According to the Telegraph:

The number of wildlife crimes more than doubled in the last year, from 2,177 to 5,854, with badgers and rare birds among the most persecuted, according to the National Wildlife Crime Unit, a police-led, multi-agency unit which gathers intelligence on national wildlife crime.

Cases of cruelty to animals in their natural habitat are now being reported at a rate of 120 a week. Among them are badger bating, egg thefts, bird trapping, deer poaching, hare coursing and habitat destruction.

Many of these species are close to extinction, like the hen harrier. Hen harriers are "hated by gamekeepers for killing grouse and other birds on shooting estates". These birds have also had unsuccessful breeding seasons in recent years, further compounding the issue. Badgers have also been targeted by wildlife criminals, largely because they are thought to spread bovine tuberculosis.

Handmade Upcycled Bags Made from Waste in Indonesia

2009-11-04T06:05:00Z

XSProject USA makes upcycled bags from waste in Indonesia.

the problem
80,000 tons of flexible plastic packaging are manufactured each year in Indonesia.

The average timespan of a single-use drink container packaged in flexible plastic is only 4 seconds. Because there are no safe disposal methods for flexible plastic, it may accumulate and then sit in a landfill forever. And because there are no traditional recycling techniques for this type of plastic it has little resale market value.

XSProject uses craftspeople and trashpickers to create unique bags from Indonesian waste. A variety of bag designs are offered, from the Shopaholic made from recycled billboard bags to the What a Waste trash receptacle.

I am not a fan of the aesthetics of most upcycled type bags, but I do love the concept. I do think the Shopaholic is a great bag, and it is interesting to read the labels on the bags to see what products are popular in Indonesia. The bags do have a very strong odor though, which is bothersome to me. Many of the bags still smell like the products they once labeled. Also, there are companies like Terracycle making similar products in the US, so it would lessen your carbon footprint to support them over purchasing a bag all the way from Indonesia.

Disclosure: XSProject sent me three bags in order to write this review. There were no assurances given in advance as to the outcome of the review.

Lake Tahoe Restoration Act Would Provide $415 Million For Preservation and Improvements

2009-11-03T23:14:48Z

Lake Tahoe, a popular tourist destination straddling the Nevada and California border, may be in for a lot of restoration funding. Introduced today by senators from Nevada and California, the Lake Tahoe Restoration Act expansion would "improve water quality, restore lake clarity, reduce the risk of catastrophic wildfire and prevent the introduction of aquatic invasive species at the lake, in addition to other environmental restoration efforts." According to the North Lake Tahoe Bonanza, specifically the money would go towards:

$72 million in stormwater management and watershed restoration projects.

$136 million for priority restoration projects.

$136 million for forest fuels reduction projects.

$20 million to prevent the introduction of new invasive species, ongoing watercraft inspections and removal of existing aquatic invasive species.

$20 million for reintroduction of the Lahontan Cutthroat Trout.

$30 million for scientific programs and research which will produce information on long-term trends in the Basin and inform the most cost-effective projects.

Authorized funding for public outreach and education.

Lake Tahoe has been plagued by forest fires and mtbe contamination in recent years, among other environmental degradations. This lake formed during the ice ages is a national treasure that should be preserved and protected.

Really Natural October 2009 Monthly Round Up

2009-11-02T06:00:00Z

Baby

Beauty

Conservation

Blog Action Day: Climate Change Brings House Flies To Everest Base Camp

Entertainment

Imperial Eco-Tours: Stars Wars-The Environmentalists Version Parodies the Green Movement

Fair Trade

Will Banana Price Wars in Europe Hurt Poor Growers in Developing Countries?

Food

Health

Kids

Monthly Round-Up

Really Natural September 2009 Monthly Round Up

Office

Recycled Cardboard Fold n' Play Audio Speakers

Pregnancy

Safely Relieve Common Pregnancy Skin Problems of Acne and Itchy Skin with Belli Pregnancy

Product review

Really Natural Products

Wildlife

environment

technology

Recycled Cardboard Fold n' Play Audio Speakers

Safely Relieve Common Pregnancy Skin Problems of Acne and Itchy Skin with Belli Pregnancy

2009-10-30T05:10:00Z

Two problems I remember being plagued by during both of my pregnancies was acne caused by hormonal changes and itchy skin caused by the big belly stretch. Belli Pregnancy has safe solutions to these problems.

BELLI Acne Clearing Facial Wash: This product uses lactic acid to treat blemished skin, as well as cucumber and green tea. This is not a soapy wash, but a smooth, lemony scented cleansing wash. It is important to note that most acne treatments are not recommended during pregnancy, except for Belli's product.

BELLI All Day Moisture Body Lotion: This is a wonderful lotion that uses lemon oil, chamomile, and shea butter to provide lasting relief for itchy skin. When I was pregnant, I was plagued with an itchy back from my growing, stretching skin, and no lotion could provide relief. I am not pregnant now, but this lotion did a wonderful job on my dry fall/winter hands. This product received a score of three out of ten for toxicity by the Environmental Working Group.

Belli Pregnancy is safe during those pregnancy months because:

Belli Pregnancy has set a higher standard for prenatal safety, as the only skin care line in the world that is teratology screened. We search through over 16 million medical research articles in over 5000 international journals, and use this information to exclude ingredients with even remote links to birth defects or other problems with pregnancy. Belli Motherhood is LactMed screened to avoid ingredients linked to harmful effects during breastfeeding. Belli Baby is screened for xenoestrogens--chemicals which can act like hormones that interfere with normal development of the reproductive system.

Of course, you don't have to be pregnant to enjoy these products.

Disclosure: I was sent free samples of the above products in order to write an authentic review. I did not guarantee a positive or negative review in exchange for the samples.

Chinese Candy Contains Excessive Lead

2009-10-29T05:55:00Z

Chinese candy made by Jigong Chayote has been recalled due to excessive lead content (note: The above picture may or may not feature Jigong Chayote candy). The San Jose Mercury News reports:

The California Department of Public Health has warned consumers not to eat an imported Chinese candy called Jigong Chayote after it was found to have unsafe levels of lead.
Recent tests found 0.68 parts per million of lead, and candies with more than 0.10 ppm are considered contaminated, the CDPH said...The CDPH said pregnant women and children who might have eaten the candy should see a doctor to determine if they need lead testing.

Just why would there be any amount of lead in candy to begin with considering the adverse effects it has on our health, especially children?

All Natural Wolfgang Chocolate Candy is TOO Sweet!

2009-10-28T05:45:00Z

One of the hardest parts about being a blogger is having to taste chocolate candies in order to review them (NOT). Recently, I tried Wolfgang Candy, which is all natural and "healthy", because it is made from "real cranberries" (other berries flavors available too).

Ingredients: Dark Chocolate (sugar, chocolate (processed with alkali), cocoa butter, soy lecithin (an emulsifier) vanilla), sugar, cranberries, vegetable oil.

I found this candy to be sickingly sweet. I had expected the candy to be chocolate covered dried or fresh fruit, but instead, a syrupy mess flows out of the innards. This candy reminds me of the crappy Valentine's Day candy I would get as a child that is sure to decay your teeth within minutes of eating. In fact, after trying two of these candies, I feel sick to my stomach. There are so many better options for all-natural, even organic and fair trade, chocolate treats; however, if you like it super sweet, you'll like these candies.

Disclosure: I was sent sample candies in order to write an authentic review. There was no guarantee of a positive or negative review in exchange for the sample.

Yoga and Pilates Prevents and Treats Stiff Arteries

2009-10-27T05:00:00Z

If you are a regular yogi or yogini, you know that yoga keeps your body flexible, among many other health benefits. New research published in the American Journal of Physiology "suggests stretching exercises that increase flexibility could prevent or reverse stiffening of arteries." Natural News reports:

So, because arterial stiffness often precedes cardiovascular disease, this simple, non-drug, non-invasive test could become a quick measure of a person's risk for early death from heart attack or stroke...Why is arterial flexibility related to the flexibility of the body in middle-aged and older people? The scientists say that remains unclear but one possibility is that stretching exercises like yoga and Pilates may put into motion physiological reactions that slow down age-related stiffening of the arteries. Moreover, they cited additional recent research that found middle-aged and older adults who began a regular stretching exercise program significantly improved the flexibility of the carotid arteries in their necks.

This is good news for our health, especially people who know they have a genetic predisposition for cardiovascular disease. Yoga and Pilates are simple ways people can maintain arterial health.

Handmade Himalayan Wool Baby Booties by JelliBee Baby

2009-10-26T05:40:00Z

One of my favorite baby items, which I have kept as a memento of those tender years, was a pair of felted wool baby booties. JelliBee Baby offers a very similar product to the ones I have.

Cheerfully bright, perfectly warm, and beautifully formed, these felted wool booties make a fitting baby gift. All natural, organic materials, handmade in the foothills of the Himalayas. Made in accordance with Fair Trade practices and green processes, these booties have little tootsies feeling good, while you are doing good.

Although I don't have a baby to try the JelliBee booties on, my recollection of the pair I had was that they were difficult to keep on those wiggly little feet. These may be different, as they do go a little higher up the ankle.

JelliBee is a mother-run company:

We are homegrown and homespun. We are spunky, sassy, and smart.
We marvel as our babies become their own little people, and our idea of love grows...

We celebrate Motherhood in style with whimsical yet practical design that's never too far from the woman we used to be, and always in step with the woman we are right now.

I do love these baby booties and wish they came in my size. I have actually made felted wool slippers for adults, which are fun to make and size on the actual foot!

Disclosure: I received a free pair of wool booties in order to write this review authentically. No promises were made as to whether the review would be positive or negative.

Eco-Friendly Beauty Tips: 99.40% Natural Apothecary by J.R. Watkins

2009-10-23T05:25:00Z

I've just discovered a new line of natural beauty products, 99.40% natural to be exact. J.R. Watkins Natural Apothecary is a 140-year-old company (why am I just finding out about them now?) that creates "authentic, quality all-natural personal care products". Two of the company's gift sets I have tried are the Head To Toe Kit and the On the Go! Kit.

J R WATKINS Head To Toe Kit includes:

Mango Hand & Body Lotion (1 fl. oz.)

Aloe & Green Tea Hand & Body Lotion (1 fl. oz.)

Peppermint Foot Cream (1 fl. oz.)

Aloe & Green Tea Body Cream (0.70 oz.)

Lemon Cream Body Cream (0.70 oz.)

Lavender Hand & Cuticle Salve (0.25 oz.)

Lemon Hand & Cuticle Salve (0.25 oz.)

Natural Beeswax Lip Balm (0.14 oz.)

J R WATKINS On the Go! Kit contains:

Lavender Hand & Body Lotion (1 fl oz/29 mL)

Lemon Cream Hand & Body Lotion (1 fl oz/29 mL)

Aloe & Green Tea Hand & Cuticle Salve (.25 oz/7 g)

Natural Beeswax Lip Balm - stick (.14 oz/4 g)

I really like the J R WATKINS Natural Beeswax Lip Balm. It really moisturizes and lasts on dry, chapped winter lips. This lip balm is very soothing with a slight peppermint essence.

J.R. Watkins is committed to being:

95% Natural and above

Sodium Lauryl Sulfate Free

Sodium Laureth Sulfate Free

Paraben Free

Phthalate Free

Mineral Oil, Petrolatum free

Dye Free

It should be noted, however, that J.R. Watkins Lavender Hand and Body Lotion received a rather high score of eight out of ten on the Environmental Working Group's (EWG) Skin Deep cosmetic database. Of greatest concern, according to EWG, are the fragrance and methylparaben ingredients. Not all of J.R. Watkins' products have been evaluated by EWG.

Disclosure: I received free sample products in order to complete this review. No guarantees of positive or negative review were given in exchange for the products. This is an authentic review.

Obama Gives Shell Oil Permission for Offshore Drilling in the Arctic

2009-10-22T05:00:00Z

In a move reminiscent of the Bush administration, President Obama has given Shell Oil permission to "begin exploratory wells off the north coast of Alaska in an Arctic area that is home to large numbers of endangered bowhead whales and polar bears, as well as walruses, ice seals and other species." What is the president thinking?

Via: Truthout and the Guardian

Green Toys 100% Recycled Plastic Tea Set

2009-10-21T05:55:00Z

One of my son's favorite toys is the made in the USA Green Toys Recycling Truck, and now we have another great Green Toys product in our home. The Green Toys Tea Set is made in the USA from 100% curbside collected, recycled plastic milk jugs. Knowing this product is made from curbside collected plastic gives me peace of mind, considering I know it was part of closing the loop, as well as I am assured these toys are not made from industrial waste plastic. Besides being made of recycled materials, this tea set is sure to enchant your child (no matter the gender), as we have experienced in our home. Who doesn't love a tea party? The set includes a tea pot, creamer, sugar bowl, four cups, four saucers and four spoons. Of course, the Green Toys Tea Set is bpa-free, lead-free, and phthalate-free!

Disclosure: I received this product for free in order write this review. There was no guarantee of a positive or negative review in exchange for the product. This is an authentic review.

Great Pacific Garbage Patch Images by Chris Jordan

2009-10-20T05:40:00Z

Chris Jordan is well known for his images that expound western culture's consumerism and its effect on the environment. One of my favorite piece by Chris Jordan includes 32,000 Barbie dolls to highlight the number of breast augmentations that occur each month in the US. Chris' latest work features images he took on Midway Atoll, and unlike Chris' other work, he did not arrange objects to create these images:

These photographs of albatross chicks were made just a few weeks ago on Midway Atoll, a tiny stretch of sand and coral near the middle of the North Pacific. The nesting babies are fed bellies-full of plastic by their parents, who soar out over the vast polluted ocean collecting what looks to them like food to bring back to their young. On this diet of human trash, every year tens of thousands of albatross chicks die on Midway from starvation, toxicity, and choking.

To document this phenomenon as faithfully as possible, not a single piece of plastic in any of these photographs was moved, placed, manipulated, arranged, or altered in any way. These images depict the actual stomach contents of baby birds in one of the world's most remote marine sanctuaries, more than 2000 miles from the nearest continent.

Via: Treehugger

Organic, Gluten-Free Bread by French Meadow Bakery

2009-10-19T05:00:00Z

My father has celiac disease, so I have tasted lots of gluten-free products. Some of them are so good, like Pamela's chocolate chunk cookie mix, that I eat it even though I don't require a gluten-free diet. Recently, I tried French Meadow Bakery's gluten-free breads that include many organic ingredients.

Gluten-Free Cinnamon Raisin Bread
Ingredients:
Filtered water, corn starch, egg whites, tapioca starch, organic honey, palm oil, organic raisins, sugar, distilled monoglycerides, rice bran and germ, contains less than 2% of the following: maltodextrin, palm oil, yeast, salt, cinnamon, carbohydrate gum, pectin, xanthan gum, leavening (sodium acid pyrophosphate, baking soda, monocalcium phosphate), guar gum, calcium sulfate, soy lecithin, natural flavor, ascorbic acid added as a dough conditioner, enzyme.

Gluten-Free Multigrain Bread
Ingredients:
Filtered water, corn starch, whole grain flour blend (amaranth, quinoa, millet, sorghum, teff ), egg whites, organic honey, tapioca starch, organic flax seed, palm oil, organic millet, organic quinoa, contains less than 2% of the following: rice bran and germ, distilled monoglycerides, yeast, maltodextrin, salt, carbohydrate gum, leavening (sodium acid pyrophosphate, baking soda, monocalcium phosphate), pectin, xanthan gum, guar gum, calcium sulfate, ascorbic acid added as a dough conditioner, enzyme.

Gluten-Free Sandwich Bread
Ingredients:
Filtered water, corn starch, egg whites, tapioca starch, palm oil, organic honey, distilled monoglycerides, maltodextrin, contains less than 2% of the following: rice bran and germ, yeast, organic apple cider vinegar, salt, carbohydrate gum, leavening (sodium acid pyrophosphate, baking soda, monocalcium phosphate), pectin, xanthan gum, guar gum, citrus fiber, calcium sulfate, ascorbic acid added as a dough conditioner, enzyme.

Each loaf costs about $5.00 and is smaller than your average loaf of wheat bread. The bread is a little bit rubbery and is better toasted, like most gluten-free breads. Unlike some gluten-free breads, it does not fall apart, which makes French Meadow Bakery gluten-free breads perfect for packing in lunches. These breads are probably the best gluten-free breads that I have tried, but I am still addicted to my wheat flour.

Disclosure: I received three free loaves of French Meadow Bakery gluten-free bread to sample in order to write this review. There were no guarantees of a positive or negative review in exchange for the sample. This is an authentic review.

Solar Produced Traditional Medicinals Throat Coat Tea Gets You Through Winter Time Ills

2009-10-16T05:00:00Z

My family's favorite tea bag variety is Traditional Medicinals Organic Throat Coat Herbal Tea. We especially appreciate this tea made from "the highest quality, pharmacopoeial grade herbs" when we are ill, but we actually drink it all the time. We take it backpacking, we drink it at home, we take it to school, etc. Recently, I took the time to read the little paper wrapper the tea bag comes in:

We have installed solar panels at our corporate headquarters and tea production facility. This solar project includes 1,450 solar panels, and generates approximately 430,000 kilowatt hours per year making us the largest solar powered tea factory on the planet!

My tea bag was a little outdated (2008), so Traditional Medicinals may have even increased their solar energy capacity. Alternative energy and good tea: we will keep enjoying our Traditional Medicinals Organic Throat Coat Herbal Tea without any eco-guilt.

Disclosure: This product was personally purchased.

Blog Action Day: Climate Change Brings House Flies To Everest Base Camp

2009-10-15T05:30:00Z

You probably don't think twice when an occasional house fly buzzes into your home, then again, you probably don't live at about 18,000 feet above sea level. House flies are showing up at Mt. Everest's base camp. The Guardian reports:

Earlier this year Dawa Steven Sherpa was resting at Everest base camp when he and his companions heard something buzzing. "What the heck is that?" asked the young Nepali climber. They searched and found a big black house fly, something unimaginable just a few years ago when no insect could have survived at 5,360 metres.

"It's happened twice this year - the Himalayas are warming up and changing fast," says Dawa, who only took up climbing seriously in 2006, but in a few years has climbed Everest twice as well as two 8,000m peaks in Tibet.

The problem of climate change goes beyond annoying house flies for the Himalayan region. "Erratic weather patterns" and lack of drinking water is hurting both the local residents and tourism.

Note: This post is part of Blog Action Day, which occurs every year uniting "the world's bloggers in posting about the same issue on the same day. Our aim is to raise awareness and trigger a global discussion."

Naturally Remove Blackheads and Clogged Pores with Clari-T Pore Cleansing Strips

2009-10-14T05:25:00Z

Earth Therapeutics Clari-T Pore Cleansing Strips use the power of tea tree oil to remove blackheads and deeply clean pores on your nose. Recommended for once a week usage, the strips are applied after first wetting your clean nose, then placing the strip across your nose (be careful your hands are thoroughly dry when removing the strip from it's wrapper). The strip stays on for about 10 minutes, and upon removal, the results are amazing! Examining the used strip is both gross and fascinating, and I was convinced after one usage that Earth Therapeutics Clari-T Pore Cleansing Strips are a must have for any natural beauty regime.

Disclosure: This product was personally purchased.

Floradix Iron Plus Herbs Naturally Supplements Your Body

2009-10-13T05:45:00Z

Floradix Iron + Herbs is a naturally derived supplement for those of you needing a little extra iron. I discovered Floradix upon my midwife's recommendation after childbirth hemorrhaging, and I recently began purchasing it again when my son was discovered to have low iron. He is not one for supplements, but liquid Floradix tastes good, and he actually asks to take it!

According to the World Health Organization, iron deficiency occurs in 66-80% of the world's population. Do you need iron?

Why does your body need iron? Because the body is constantly making new red blood cells through a complex process that requires a daily supply of iron. If the supply of iron is inadequate it will lead to a lack of oxygen and nutrients in the blood, and will consequently weaken the whole body. Some of the symptoms of iron deficiency are: ? Fatigue and general lack of energy ? Decreased ability to concentrate ? Decreased endurance during exercise ? Increased frequency of infection ? Ridges along the fingernails ? Paleness and/or dark circles under the eyes?

Floradix Iron + Herbs uses herbs, fruit, vegetables, ocean kelp, wheat germ, rosehips, yeast, and is sweetened with kosher honey. It is non-constipating and contains vitamin C to increase absorption of iron. It also contains a high level of B12, and important supplement for many vegetarians. Floradix is also available in a gluten or yeast-free formula.

Disclosure: This is an item I purchased for personal use. It was not provided to me in exchange for this product review.

Imperial Eco-Tours: Stars Wars-The Environmentalists Version Parodies the Green Movement

2009-10-12T05:10:00Z

Via: Shea Gunther's blog on Mother Nature Network