Etsy Green and Clean Guild

Etsy Green and Clean Guild SALES!

2009-11-08T11:21:00.004-05:00

Week Two: November 8th - 14th
FREEBIE with purchases of $20 or more from the following shops - just mention "EGCG Week 2" in the Notes to Seller section at checkout! See each participating seller's shop announcement for details on that shop's freebie.

Right As Rain Creations, http://rightasraincreations.etsy.com
Sweet Creek Herbs, http://sweetcreekherbs.etsy.com
Inseine Creations, http://inseinecreations.etsy.com
Sudznthings, http://sudznthings.etsy.com
Skin Journey, http://skinjourney.etsy.com
Illuminated Perfume, http://illuminatedperfume.etsy.com
Stephanie K Naturals, http://stephaniek.etsy.com
DressGreen, http://dressgreen.etsy.com
Body Language Soaps, http://blsoaps.etsy.com
Wix & Whacks, http://wixandwhacks.etsy.com

Etsy Green and Clean Guild SALES!

2009-11-01T14:40:00.002-05:00

Shop for the holidays with the Etsy Green and Clean Guild! During the entire month of November, the EGCG will be offering great deals. Each Sunday kicks off a new week's promotion, so check back often to see what the deal is and which shops are participating!

Week One: November 1st - 6th
15% off any order of $10 or ...more from the following shops - just mention "EGCG Week 1" in the Notes to Seller section at checkout!

Right As Rain Creations, http://rightasraincreations.etsy.com
Spa Therapy Works, http://spatherapy.etsy.com
Sweet Creek Herbs, http://sweetcreekherbs.etsy.com
Inseine Creations, http://inseinecreations.etsy.com
Sudznthings, http://sudznthings.etsy.com
Skin Journey, http://skinjourney.etsy.com
Illuminated Perfume, http://illuminatedperfume.etsy.com
Body Language Soaps, http://blsoaps.etsy.com

*Discount is taken off orders originally totaling $10 or more before shipping. Shipping is not discounted. Please ask if you have any questions!

And the winner is.....

2009-10-31T00:55:00.004-04:00

Drum roll please.....

1. Spa Therapy Works

Charmed Cauldron Exfoliating Body Cleanser

Congratulations Spa Therapy Works!!!

3. Pink Quartz Minerals Halloween Costume Makeup Cat or Lion Kit was a close second!

....and the lucky winner of a free Charmed Cauldron Exfoliating Body Cleanser is....

mu-yin jewelry

CONGRATS!!!!!!!!

Thanks everyone who voted!

HAPPY HALLOWEEN!!

EGCG Halloween Challenge 2009 - It's On!

2009-10-18T08:00:00.000-04:00

The EGCG Halloween Challenge has started!
Voting is easy:

FIRST: Click on the entries name to learn more about each entry
SECOND: Cast your vote on your favorite Halloween entry. Leave a comment (with a valid email address) telling us which product is your favorite! Please enter the number of of the entry you think deserves to win. From these comments, we will select a random winner to receive the winning entry entirely for free!

The winner will be selected by popular vote and results will be announced here on Halloween! You might win some bewitched bath & body product!

And the participant entries are.....

1. Spa Therapy Works

Charmed Cauldron Exfoliating Body Cleanser

"Cast your spells with this mystical, spellbinding blend of hauntingly eerie dark forest mist and the witch’s little dark secret! With notes of blackberries and raspberries, combined with clean musk and vanilla beans with a dash of greenery, this concoction is sure to bewitch you!"

2. Inseine Creations

Limited Edition Fall Lip Balm Trio - Candy Corn, Caramel Apple, and Gummi Worms

"Just in time for the leaves to start falling and the state fair to roll into town--the Fishy Kisses Fall Lip Balm Trio!

3. Pink Quartz Minerals

Halloween Costume Makeup Cat or Lion Kit

"Grrrrrrrooowlllll! Purrrrrrrrfect! This is just one of the hundreds of ways you can use my new Cat Halloween Makeup Kit! There is plenty in this kit to create cat faces, lion faces, leopard spots.. the creativity is up to you!"

4. urbbody

For Halloween-Glow in the Dark Skull n Crossbones Soap (Set of 4)

"Back in time for Halloween-- fun soaps shaped as funky skulls and crossbones that glow in the dark! (No,they won't make you glow in the dark, sorry.) Great to get kids to wash their hands after trick-or-treating, or as guest soaps at your Halloween party, or just for the pirates in your life."

5. Alchemic Muse

Phantasm - Halloween Ltd. Edition Natural Handmade Soap

"Lose yourself in a labyrinth of sweet black licorice whips with this ethereal creation. A unique and mouth-watering blend of star anise, sweet fennel, and tarragon leaf essential oils."

6. Illuminated Perfume

Phoenix Myster

"A natural perfume aromatic spray for the home and body. The Phoenix Myster is a fine spray mister for your home and or body. We use ours to naturally scent the room, our sheets, pillows, curtains and our selves. Ring in the Celtic new year with the Phoenix Myster created specifically for All Hallow Eve, also known as Samhain."

7. Sweet Creek Herbs

Bath Soap, Trick or Treat

"I just have to call it that!! You see why, but you cannot smell why! • One 4+ oz. Trick or Treat Bath Soap • Scented with Anise and Orange Valencia essential oils • added hemp seed and wheat germ oils • feature: Halloween appearance and aroma"

8. Twin Dream Creations

Skull Soaps - Handmade Glycerin Soap

"The world dies over and over again, but the skeleton always gets up and walks.- Henry Miller. What better to place on your sinks than 3 small skull soaps. Place them in your bath, your kitchen or just anywhere. These would make great gifts for Halloween or any day for that matter. They are scented a wonderful earthy/grassy scent befitting a set of skulls."

9. Bathouse

Ouija - Limited Edition Halloween 2009 Soap

"Conjure your rustically sensual side with our Limited Edition Ouija vegetable glycerin soap. It's very moisturizing and the perfect tool to evoke your Halloween spirit."

Vote now!

EGCG Halloween Challenge 2009 - Stay Tuned!

2009-10-08T07:30:00.002-04:00

Halloween is coming up, and some of the EGCG team members are competing against each other on a frightful fun! Come by the EGCG BLOG on October 18^th and cast your vote on your favorite Halloween entry!

The winner will be selected by popular vote here on the blog from October 18^th through October 30th- votes to be counted on October 31st.

Leave comments telling us which product is your favorite! From these comments, we will select a random winner to receive the winning entry entirely for free!

Be on the lookout for the Halloween Challenge post on October 18th and cast you vote! You might win some bewitched bath & body product!

EEEEK! Halloween, Thanksgiving and Christmas OH MY!

2009-09-18T07:23:00.000-04:00

Whether we like it or not, ‘tis the season for buying gifts, for everyone!

Why not consider something theme oriented this year? For Halloween think about ghost stories and wolves howling… maybe some BAD WOLF soap would be the treat to tame that wild one with a great soap from Alchemic Muse

Maybe you are not sure what you want to give…. Why not an assortment from BLSoaps? So many of the EGCG members offer gift wrapping… IMPORTANT when waiting till the last minute to get that gift for someone special. Morgan Street offers this too!

Cute also goes well with the season’s theme… want some cookies? Soap Kitchen makes um’ fresh just for you!

Or maybe a nice slice of Pumpkin Pie? Please don’t eat this treat…. It is for the OUTSIDE of your body! Another sweet treat from Soap Kitchen.

Regardless of what you choose as a gift, talk to the merchants. We are all happy to work with our customers to find that “just right” gift for you to give that special person on your list.

As we get busy with the Season, remember those less fortunate.

Have a Happy Holiday Season!

Gini

www.SoapKitchen.Etsy.com

Make Your Handcrafted Soap Last...

2009-09-11T07:00:00.000-04:00

...With a beautiful, handcrafted soap dish from an etsy seller, of course. I love to buy soap dishes. It started out as a way to have props to photograph my soaps, but it's turned into a growing collection (or obsession?). Keep your soap out of the water and make it last longer with one of the selections below.

This is one of my all-time favorite soap dishes, from dbabcock. The cute little worms keep your soap raised up and out of a puddle.
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=22726538

These wooden soap dishes from crochetgal are the ones I use in gift sets. They are economical and match any decor, so get the three pack and put one at every sink.
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=30573806

A gorgeous selection from madhatterceramics--a beautiful blue color and bumps in the middle to keep your soap high and dry.
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=19427042

I just love misspottery's stamped plates (I own one of these beauties), and they make great soap dishes, too.
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=30556777

Put your soap art on a pedestal with this piece from mossyrockpottery:
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=30098095

Post by InseineCreations

Green Washing

2009-09-10T07:00:00.000-04:00

Green has become the color that everyone wants to associate themselves with

these days. "Green" indicating good for the environment. Another word that keeps popping up is "Vegan."

My mother of the Etsy shop TwoKnit (http://www.TwoKnit.etsy.com), mentioned to

me that knitted gloves made with acrylic yarn are not Vegan. This was a shock to me,

how could that be? After all, acrylic yarn is not animal like say alpaca or wool. I was told

that it is not considered Vegan because it is petroleum based. How interesting, that certainly

is not the case in the Perfume community where synthetic petroleum fragrances are marked

as Vegan. In search of clarity I went online and did a little research. Seems that there

is no standardized definition for Vegan. The term Vegan came about in 1944 out of a desire

to exclude animal products from one's lifestyle. (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Veganism#History)

The Vegan Society defines the term as a lifestyle that attempts to avoid "leather, wool, silk

and other animal products for clothing or any other purpose."

However, further research online indicates that some vegan's do not perceive petroleum as

an animal based product where as others do since it stems from the decay of organic material

including animal. Others prefer to avoid petroleum because the big conglomerates producing

petroleum based products are harming the environment.

There is also a debate as to whether honey and bee products are vegan or not. Most believe

that bee products are not vegan, however, if we look at the FAQ's page of Vegan.org (http://www.vegan.org/FAQs/index.html#7) you will find that they are a bit on the fence on this subject.

As a business owner who is not 100% vegan but lives a very holistic lifestyle and strives for

authenticity, I do want to be as truthful as possible and avoid Green washing. Thus I will list

my ingredients and let the user decide if the item fits their paradigm or not.

Cheers to the Etsy Green and Clean Guild whose members advocates for Truth in Advertising.

Roxana Villa of Illuminated Perfume (http://www.illuminatedperfume.etsy.com/)

Image ©Roxana Villa

Alpha Hydroxy Acids

2009-09-08T07:00:00.000-04:00

There are many cosmetic products currently out that contain some form of Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs) in them. But what is this ingredient? What can it do for you? And what should you know about products with AHAs? Here is some recent information provided by the Food & Drug Administration, the branch of government that oversees the cosmetic industry.

Why are AHAs used in some cosmetics?
Products containing AHAs are marketed for a variety of purposes, such as smoothing fine lines and surface wrinkles, improving skin texture and tone, unblocking and cleansing pores, and improving skin condition in general. Sometimes AHAs are used in cosmetics for other purposes, such as to adjust the pH (the degree of acidity or alkalinity).

How do AHAs work?
AHA-containing products cause exfoliation, or shedding of the surface skin. The extent of exfoliation depends on the type and concentration of the AHA, its pH, and other ingredients in the product.

What about products that contain AHAs and are marketed with therapeutic claims?
Some products containing AHAs have been marketed for uses such as treating acne, removing scars, and lightening discolorations. Among these are some products marketed as "skin peelers," which may contain relatively high concentrations of AHAs or other acids and are designed to remove the outer layer of the skin. Products that are intended for use in the diagnosis, cure, mitigation, treatment, or prevention of disease, or to affect the structure or any function of the body are drugs under the law (Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act, Sec. 201(g)). For example, products intended for use as acne treatments or skin lighteners are considered drugs.

Has FDA conducted research on the safety of AHAs?
Yes. These studies confirmed previous industry studies indicating that applying AHAs to the skin results in increased UV sensitivity. After four weeks of AHA application, volunteers' sensitivity to skin reddening produced by UV increased by 18 percent. Similarly, the volunteers' sensitivity to UV-induced cellular damage doubled, on average, with considerable differences among individuals.

However, the studies also indicated that this increase in sensitivity is reversible and does not last long after discontinuing use of the AHA cream. One week after the treatments were halted, researchers found no significant differences in UV sensitivity among the various skin sites.

The studies did not identify exactly how AHAs bring about the increased UV sensitivity, although the effects did not appear to involve dramatic increases in UV-induced damage to DNA in the skin.

Previous FDA studies have indicated that a cosmetic-type cream base caused an AHA to penetrate more deeply into the skin when compared to an AHA solution without the usual cosmetic ingredients. However, further studies will be needed to learn how much, if at all, those cosmetic-type ingredients influence the AHA-related effects on UV sensitivity.

How can AHAs be used safely?
It is important to follow directions carefully and heed any warning statements on the label when using any cosmetic product. If you are using AHAs, it is advisable to use sun protection.

In January 2005, the FDA issued Guidance for Industry: Labeling of Cosmetics Containing Alpha Hydroxy Acids as Ingredients. The purpose of this guidance is to educate consumers about the potential for increased skin sensitivity to the sun from the topical use of cosmetics containing AHAs and to educate manufacturers to help ensure that their labeling for these products is not false or misleading.

How can I know if a cosmetic product contains AHAs?
Under the authority of the Fair Packaging and Labeling Act (FPLA), FDA requires an ingredient declaration on cosmetic products sold at the retail level to consumers. The most common AHAs in cosmetic products are glycolic acid and lactic acid. Among others are citric acid, hydroxycaprylic acid, and hydroxycapric acid.

*Taken from the FDA website. For more details on AHAs, please visit: http://www.fda.gov/Cosmetics/ProductandIngredientSafety/SelectedCosmeticIngredients/ucm107940.htm

A Labor of Love

2009-09-05T06:00:00.000-04:00

Mirasol Farm's Sweet Orange Calendula Cream

Since this is Labor Day weekend, (and because I am, once again, an expectant mother,) my thoughts are of skin care for those who will eventually be in actual labor. Pregnancy brings with it a number of skin care concerns and challenges; many women experience dry and itchy skin, some experience breakouts in the beginning of their pregnancy, others throughout. many women are particularly concerned with developing stretch marks. (See Mirasol Farm's cream above with help for those!) Also, often legs and feet become swollen and crampy. And do I even need to mention hemorrhoids?

While seeking appropriate skincare products to use while pregnant, even natural ones, it's important to remember that certain herbs, essential oils and other ingredients are not to be used internally or topically while pregnant, not to mention keeping in mind any personal allergies that an individual may have. Retinoids and vitamin A are contraindicated in pregnancy. And scent can be a factor as well; even if a product is "safe," it's scent may be off-putting to a pregnant woman.

Pregnant women should consult their doctor if they have any questions about possible interactions from topical skin care products/essential oils.

Leg Cramp Oil*

This is great for leg cramps, varicose veins, varicosities and sore backs.

2 ounces St. John’s Wort Oil
5 Drops Neroli
5 Drops Grapefruit Essential oil
This leg oil is fabulous. This is so soothing and relaxing on tired muscles.

*Recipe by Demetria Clark, www.heartofherbs.com

Recipe of the Day: Pumpkin Pie Face Mask

2009-08-29T07:00:00.000-04:00

Fall is almost upon us and that means one thing to me……PUMPKINS!

The onset of Fall brings with it the reappearance of pumpkin flavored coffees at our favorite coffee shop, pumpkin scented candles and soaps from our favorite Indie shops, and the bakers amongst us will begin rolling up our sleeves to get going on scrumptious pumpkin baked goodies. But, did you know that pumpkin is not only lovely in our tummies but also works wonders for our skin too? Pumpkin makes an excellent face mask ingredient for all skin types, especially environmentally damaged or sensitive skin. High in Vitamin A (skin healing), C (anti-oxidant) and Zinc, the pumpkin soothes, moisturizes and acts as a carrier, assisting the other mask ingredients to absorb deeper into the skin and intensifying the results.

Try this Pumpkin Pie Face Mask at home!
Ingredients

2 teaspoons cooked or canned pumpkin
pureed ½ teaspoon honey (humectant, regenerative)

Directions
Combine the ingredients for your facemask. Mix gently and apply to your face avoiding the eye area. Rest and relax for 10-15 minutes while your pumpkin pie facemask gently exfoliates, nourishes and conditions your face. Rinse with warm water and apply the appropriate moisturizer for your skin type.

Fun Fact: Did you know fragrance researchers claim that the scent of pumpkin pie filling will turn men into helpless love slaves, content to sit immobile for hours while you use their arms as a yarn-winder?

Natural = Safe?

2009-08-28T07:00:00.000-04:00

This article has been reprinted with permission from Heather Scent Aromatherapy's blog from Aug 20, 2009.

I don’t like to rant on this blog.

It’s unprofessional.

So I won’t do that here.

But….

I need to get something off my chest.

There are a lot of products on Etsy that contain essential oils. Many different products by many different sellers -- balms, salves, lotions, sprays, soap, etc… People are leaning towards more natural ways of doing things these days. Our skin is our largest organ, and anything we put on our skin is absorbed directly into the blood stream. So the less synthetic and dangerous chemicals we put on our skin, the better.

Most of the shops selling these products really know their stuff. They’ve read books, or conducting research. They’ve questioned experts. They have a background in herbalism or aromatherapy. The products are labelled properly and carry instructions for proper use, as well as possible dangers and whom should or should not use the product.

But.

Lately I’ve noticed some shops that don’t look like they’ve done their research. In these shops, essential oils are used freely and without warnings/guidelines about use on babies or young children. There are also no warnings about pregnancy, hypertension, sun sensitivity, epilepsy and medication interactions, just to name a few. The people making the products have no reference anywhere in their shop regarding their experience or qualifications in Aromatherapy.

Some of these products contain essential oils that are contraindicated if a person has any of the above-mentioned health issues. Some of these products contain essential oils that are on the Do Not Use list compiled by the International Federation of Aromatherapists. Some of these products can be downright dangerous if used by the wrong person.

Just because essential oils are “natural”, that does not mean that they are all safe and can be used without thought of the consequences.

Many of the body or room sprays are created by simply adding some essential oil to plain (or distilled) water. There are a few problems with that. For one, essential oils are not soluble in water. They will never properly mix. When the product is sprayed (even if it is shaken first), there may be a few miniscule droplets of EO here and there, or a large drop here and a small drop there, or there may be none at all.

Furthermore, water (even if it is distilled) is a breeding ground for bacteria. Unless the sprays are stored in the fridge, these products will be teeming with nasties and start to smell “off” in a few months. Essential oil sprays that are made with water require a solubilsor and a full-spectrum preservative.

Repeat after me: Any hydrous (aka – contains water) bath & beauty product must have a preservative! And Grapefruit seed, rosemary extract and vitamin E are NOT preservatives. Yes, adding a synthetic preservative such as Germall Plus will make the product ‘unnatural’, but it will also keep it safe. E.Coli is also natural, but I don’t think any of us want to spray that around our bathrooms, or onto our children’s pillow cases.

Please, Buyers: Beware! If you have any questions about the safety of a product that contains essential oils, ask the shop owner. If he or she does not seem knowledgeable about the oils or the ingredients they use in their products, move on to another shop. I am always only an e-mail or Etsy convo away, so please do not hesitate to ask me any questions you have about any essential oil.

My offer to provide information about essential oils extends to sellers as well. My main priority as a professional Aromatherapist is promoting the healthy and safe use of essential oils, even if it means helping out my so-called “competition”.

Smell safely, everyone!

My Not-so-Secret Vinegar Obsession

2009-08-27T07:00:00.000-04:00

My husband tells me I have an obsession with vinegar. Considering I start to feel like I'm jonesing if we open the last gallon without having bought more, I'm thinking he's probably right. LOL! However, I have found this to be an irreplaceable tool in my natural cleaning arsenal!

I originally got hooked on using white vinegar for my laundry. With two boys who still struggle with occasionally wetting the bed at night, our laundry often STINKS! And I mean STINK!!! Adding white vinegar to the wash is the only thing I've found to completely eliminate that stench.

I add vinegar to my fabric softener dispenser (you can use a Downy(TM) ball if your washer doesn't have one) and also to my bleach dispenser. Since these dispense at different times during the wash cycle, I've found it to help with those really soiled loads. But if the load is really bad (like the soiled bedding) I also add a cup or two to the clothes themselves.

After seeing (smelling) how good it worked on the laundry, I started looking for other uses for it! I put some in a spray bottle & took it into my boys' bedroom. Spray spray spray... It smelled like vinegar for a while, but once it all dried, it smelled SO MUCH BETTER!!!

And an obsession was born.

Here are just a few of the various things I use it for now!

I now usually soak new shirts (especially red shirts) in vinegar before washing them for the first time. It helps fully set the color so it doesn't bleed in the wash (my boys don't like pink underwear).

We use it as a weed killer on our back deck. (hmmm, THAT might get the grape vines to stop trying to overtake our deck....)

Vinegar also works wonderfully as an all-purpose cleaner. If you need a little scrubbing action, add a little baking soda. Works wonderfully!

I love using it as a window cleaner.

I've rubbed it over fresh mosquito bites to help eliminate the itch. (it seriously works, however, you do need to reapply it occasionally)

I use it in my dishwasher instead of JetDry to help eliminate water spots.

I add vinegar to my dish soap. It helps cut through the grease a little faster than without it. And since I'm ALWAYS washing out oily pots with the business, it makes my clean up time just a little faster!

There are so many different uses for vinegar out there, these are just a few that we've incorporated into our daily lives. We've saving money and greening things up. We know what we're using to clean our homes, and it feels good to know it's something that is incredibly safe to use.

Post by Lindsay Goodwin of Body Language Soaps

Back to School Beauty

2009-08-26T07:00:00.001-04:00

Whether you’re returning to school or your little ones are, it’s the time students are beginning a new year. With classes starting, we prepare with new school supplies and clothes. But while refreshing the wardrobes, don’t forget to also refresh your beauty routine!

Makeup – Autumn calls for a switch to a more toned down but warm palette. The fashionable fall colors this year include soft reds and pinks, pale browns and grays, and vibrant blues and purples.

Creams, Lotions and body butters – Fall brings a cooler, often drier weather. Keep your sunkissed skin moisturized with a cream or lotion in tune with your skin type.

Fragrances – Switch out your light and fresh summer scent for a deeper, complex scent suited for autumn. Try autumn scents that include fruits and spices, or woody and earthy elements.

Bath – Don’t stress out yet, the year has only just begun. Keep your cool with a hot bath and some relaxing bath indulgences!

Posted by Stephanie K

The Interview: Bunny Butt Apothecary

2009-08-24T07:00:00.000-04:00

1. What products do you make that are your main focus? What are the main ingredients you use in those products?
It's tough to pinpoint a single focal product, actually; but, if pressed, I'd probably say my focus is split between soaps and creams. I enjoy making and formulating both -- lots of awesomely natural plant oils involved, plus a little touch of chemistry! I use lots of essential oils, but have a personal yen for high quality synthetic scents as well...nothing beats smelling like cake after a bath!

2. How did you get started? When?
Bunny Butt was born not-so-very-long-ago out of a personal hobby of mine. I'd been playing around with making butters and balms, and eventually transitioned into making soap. To be perfectly honest, the whole thing started out as a way to keep me from going insane while taking what is generally considered roughly twice the normal course load in college. A couple years later, in the fall of 2007, to be exact, a business was born.

3. Why do you do what you do?
It's fun, it's creative, and it makes people happy. Simple enough.

4. Where else do you vend your products?
I sell through Etsy and also through my own site. You can also find our stuff at a couple of brick&mortars, and Scott (the male half of Bunny Butt) and I do our best to make it to the larger indie shows like Renegade, BUST, and the like. So far, we've traveled up and down the northeast, but life is taking us to California so we're looking forward to exploring the west coast, as well.

5. Where do you live (area not specifics)?
We're in the process of migrating from New Jersey to beautiful Santa Barbara (or--well--Goleta, really) in Southern California.

6. How long have you been selling on Etsy – advice for any?
I'm an old timer--I actually joined Etsy in October of 2005. At that time, I was mostly a buyer and sold a little bit of beaded jewelry here and there, because everyone did. My biggest bit of advice? If you're looking to make it on Etsy, you've got to treat it like a business but you can't forget that, in the end, it's all you. Spend some time coming up with a brand, register a user name that is appropriate to the name of your company, and pour your heart into every part of it. If you're not passionate about what you're doing, who will be?

7. What is your favorite scent?
Tough to say. I'm a fan of the sweet but complex. Soft vanilla, a little spice, a little wood...though, lately, I've been going mad for honeysuckle.

8. What oil do you enjoy most?
I have an intense love/hate relationship with raw cocoa butter. I'm a big fan of chocolate so between the awesome aroma and all the other great (and, you know, actually useful) properties, I like to put the stuff in just about anything. Now if it just didn't require a pick axe to get it down to manageable pieces...

9. What do you do for fun?
Right now, I'm starting my Ph.D. at UCSB in South Asian religious studies...yeah, I'm one of those freaks that thinks school is fun. I'm also a yoga teacher.

Post by bunnybuttapothecary

A Call to Indie Businesses

2009-08-22T07:00:00.000-04:00

I think we, all as independent business owners, worry in this turbulent economy, but not a lot of us talk about it. I know that some of us are smaller than others and are having a rough go of it. I believe it is important to keep in mind that we do not have to reinvent the wheel every time we want to begin an idea, to start a project. There are so many talented individuals among us with resources and mental files, packed away chronicles and ideas that we could never use in a lifetime that we should consider tapping into each other's creative pools.

A few random situations came across my business life in the last two days where I was put into the position of helping women and offering them information (creative or data related) that others may have withheld. For what reason would I withhold information? So these people would have to spend something like 200 hours researching? I've already spent hours and hours.... It just doesn't make sense to me that certain people wouldn't share contact information, either, with clueless entrepreneurial spirited stay at home mothers. What is the point of that?!

I have put my weird pride away and have asked for advice just recently which is something I just don't do. I usually spend weeks doing my own research. Perhaps, I am taking a step, too, or maybe I am running out of time and need to start managing my time more efficiently. I have to start generating money more effectively, so research and the length of time it takes just isn't the priority at this moment in comparison to generating sales and hiring staff once sales increase. Priorities change with economy turns and so business sense changes and so does life.

My point with all of this chatter, is that we need to band together, in my opinion, to join together and help each other and not let the big, massive companies win in this sad tight-pocketed economy. We should be promoting, uplifting and giving to each other. Other than our family and friends, who else do we have?

Post by Joanna Schmidt of Product Body

Product Review: BL Soaps

2009-08-21T07:00:00.001-04:00

Raise your hand if you like handmade soap. Why, that is a lot of raised hands! Now don't you all feel silly sitting at your computer by yourself with your hand up in the air? ;)

Buying handmade soap is easy on Etsy - the choices are near endless. Narrow your choices down to the excellent quality you know you'll find among EGCG members and your choices are still near endless! Since I don't make cold process soap myself (and even if I did), I am making my way through my fellow guild members and trying out a wide variety of soap. It is tons of fun and I smell great!

Today, let me share my experience with BLSoaps. I bought two - Pomegranate and Gingered Orange Spice. Both were chosen to be kitchen soaps. Since I work in my kitchen and wash my hands a lot, I need soaps that lather and clean well and rinse clean without being overly drying.

BLSoaps' bars totally fit the bill! I loved the lather - small creamy bubbles that loved my skin. The soap rinsed off well and my hands felt good after drying them. Plus the two scents I chose were both divine!

Not only that, but everything was well-packaged and was shipped quickly. It was an excellent buying experience and I know I'll be adding the Gingered Orange Spice to my list of favorites.

Check out her shop for an amazing selection of scents - I don't think you could make a wrong choice! Don't forget, she sells much more than soap, as well!

Submitted by RightAsRainCreations

Citrus!

2009-08-20T07:00:00.001-04:00

There's something about citrus products that I just adore....perhaps it's the vibrant colours of the fruits or the sharp, intense scents...it doesn't really matter.

What does matter is the fact that you can pretty much get any bath product you like that has some form of citrus component to it.

Try cleaning away the days grime with the delightful Citrus Glaze Shea Butter Soap bar featured above by BLSoaps.

Nourish your dry skin with a dab of Citrus Spritzer - Body Souffle by Jadewicks.

Dress Green has a lovely treat for you hair.....This Sweet Orange Shampoo Bar with Jojoba and Meadowfoam Seed Oils plays double duty, washing both the hair and the body.

Here's a great room scenting option by Wixandwhacks. Sunripened Orange Gourmet Soy Candle.

And don't forget to nourish your lips...they need to be in top form for when they are called to duty....you never know when you'll need to 'pucker-up'. Try this Lemon Lime Lip Balm Mirasol Farms.

These are just a few of the delightful creations available from our EGCG members...take a look...you're bound to find one that you can't resist!

Post by Jovia Soap

Beeswax

2009-08-19T07:00:00.000-04:00

Late summer is like the days of wine and roses for bees—hosts of flowers in bloom, plenty of moisture and heat, hives full of babies and combs filling rapidly with honey. We’re beekeepers, and love to mark the seasons with our little friends who are still patiently waiting for us to figure out how to “keep” them.

We also love using beeswax in our products, and thought a little digging into this magical stuff would be the seasonally proper thing to do. Here is a marvelous description of the beneficial properties of beeswax from Mountain Rose Herbs.

Beeswax is produced by the (female) worker honeybees. The wax is secreted from wax glands on the underside of the bee's abdomen and is molded into six-sided cells which are filled with honey, then capped with more wax. When honey is harvested, the top layer of wax that covers the cells, or the cappings, must be removed from each hexagon-shaped cell. Just to put it into perspective, one pound of wax requires the bees to consume about ten pounds of honey!

Beeswax works well in cosmetic products because of the “wax esthers” that exist in both beeswax and human skin and it is these compounds which help to bind and emulsify ointments, lipsticks and lotions.

As a natural hydrating ingredient that increases essential moisture in skin, it is commonly found in hand and body creams that help retain natural skin moisture and in the relief of itching from sensitive skin. Beeswax has an irritation potential of zero, and a comedogenicity rating of 0 - 2, which means that when formulated and used correctly in cosmetic formulations, beeswax will not cause a problem or clog the pores, but brings a host of very positive attributes, such as general healing and softening, as an antiseptic, and an emollient to cosmetic products.

In foaming cosmetics such as skin and body detergents, beeswax improves skin compatibility and reduces the aggressive properties of surfactants, while in shampoos and hair conditioners it improves the condition and the manageability of the hair. Even after processing, it still remains a biologically active product, retaining some anti-bacterial properties and also contains some vitamin A, which is necessary for normal cell development. In folk medicine beeswax was used as an antiseptic for wound healing and beeswax ear candles were used for ear wax removal. They are believed to be able to heal ear infection and improve hearing by removing the wax inside the ear.

Listed below are some of the many reasons Beeswax is used in cosmetics:

It is easily incorporated in water and oil emulsions
It is an excellent emollient and support for moisturizers
It gives skin protective action of a non-occlusive type
It gives good "body" (consistency) to emulsions, oil and gels
It reinforces the action of detergents
It increases the protective action of sunscreens
Its elasticity and plasticity improve product efficacy by allowing thinner films and
It provides greater permanence on skin and lip surfaces
It does not provoke allergic reactions
It is compatible with many cosmetic ingredients

Excerpted from http://www.mountainroseherbs.com/learn/beeswax.html

Here are just a few Etsy items that include beeswax. Think of our magical friends when you use them!

Handmade deodorant by Bathhouse

Travel size solid Lotion Bar by PixieSoap

Gardener's Therapy Salve by Right As Rain Creations

Lip therapy by Mirasol Farm

Post by Mirasol Farm

Lavish Lavender

2009-08-18T07:00:00.000-04:00

For centuries, Lavender, or officially known as Lavandula angustifolia, has been praised for its astounding aromatheraputic and skin healing elements. Even though there are far more varieties of Lavender available, Lavandula angustifolia is considered purest and most therapeutic in form.

History tells a story of an Herb that doesn’t go unnoticed. A saying exists “if in doubt, use Lavender” and for good reason too. Lavender has been used throughout history with strong evidence dating back to the Ancient Egyptians. The herb was used in mummification ingredients, as a distillate it was used to wash clothes in and as a royal perfume. Lavender was considered precious because it grew only in the Mediterranean area and was brought to Egypt by the Greeks and Romans. Lavender has many uses including, but not limited to:

Acne
Athlete’s Foot
Bruises
Burns
Dandruff
Eczema
Inflammation
Insect repellent
Cramps
Nausea
Gas
Headaches
Used as a fragrance for soaps, lotions and in perfumes
Used as a flavoring agent in food and drinks

Check out the many EGCG Products containing Lavender:

All Natural Lavender Fields Soap by Wix & Whacks

Lemony Lavender Vegan Deodorant Stick 2oz by Spa Therapy Works

Lavender Ylang-ylang Natural Massage Oil by Stephanie K Naturals

Lavender Fields - Soy and Palm Pillar Candles By Arcadia Aromatics

Stress Balm - Lavender and Peppermint (Vegan) By urbbody

Post by Wix and Whacks Bath and Body

The Scents of Fall

2009-08-17T07:00:00.003-04:00

As I sit and watch the apples in my small orchard turn slowly to red I am eagerly awaiting harvest time! I know that fall will be here soon and it will not be very long before I am turning those delicious fruits into applesauce, jelly, and pie filling and then storing them in my cupboard to use all winter long.

Like many people fall is my favorite time of year. I love to see the leaves change color and harvest a summers worth of hard work from my gardens. So as I wait to eagerly can all the apples in my orchard I am reminded of all the wonderful scents that fall has to offer. I think of pies, spiced fruits and cinnamon. It sends my soap making need into overdrive as I make a list of all the wonderful scents I’d like to introduce this fall!

Some of my fellow EGCG friends have some wonderful fall scents available!

Like this amazing soap made with real Apple Cider by PixieSoap:

Or this Bath and Body Oil by morganstreet:

and last, but not least, this Ginger Almond Pear from urbbody:

Post by Rachel Rene

Towel Gift Basket

2009-08-15T08:06:00.016-04:00

www.sudznthings.etsy.com/

Are you looking for a unique gift basket? How about making your own, Alison Jenkins shares how to make an Origami Towel “Gift Basket” in 6 easy steps.

”Using one bath towel, this clever series of folds results in a “basket” that can be filled with bath and body products or could even be beach themed. It is a wonderful way to welcome guests to your home, or to give as a gift. Best of all, it is really quite simple. See for yourself:

You will need 1 towel of any size, and items or your choice to fill the basket when done.

Directions:

STEP 1 - Lay the bath towel out flat, vertically. Fold in half by bringing the lower edge upward to meet the top edge. Press the fold flat with the palm of your hand.

STEP 2 -Divide the folded towel into roughly thirds, then fold
along the crease lines, bringing the top edge down first.

STEP 3 - Divide the resulting shape into thirds again and fold
along the crease lines, pressing the folds firmly with the palm of your hand.

STEP 4 -Open the top layer on the left-hand side and tuck the right-hand side into it to make a secure loop. For added security fix the edge in place using a safety pin.

STEP 5 - Open up the loop, place your hand inside one of the folds in
the middle, and push the towel down inside the loop to form a base for the basket shape.

STEP 6 - Fill the basket with pretty, soaps, bath fizzies , bath melts, lotion bar/lotion, shampoo/conditioner and perhaps an additional washcloth in a contrasting color, or fill with sunscreen, shades, water bottle and beach toys. Or for the kids, bubble bath and bath toys, the possibilities are endless

You can also add a handle. To begin:
1. Roll the corner of the washcloth to the center, then turn the shape over to the other side---this will form the handle. If the washcloth is soft, you might want to line it with a piece of tissue paper to add rigidity.

2. Use safety pins to secure the pointed ends of the handle to the each side of the top of the basket.

Catnip

2009-08-14T07:00:00.000-04:00

A little-known herb. A common weed for some. Many, who do remember it from their childhood days, say their grandmothers grew and, now that they think on it, used it.

I did not grow up around herb usage. I stumbled upon herbs as an adult. But, it was love at first stumble. I am still fascinated by the properties of so many of our herbs. There seems to be many definitions of that term: herbs. But, I find I like this one: whatever plant material that benefits the body. This means edible flowers, veggies, fruits, and mushrooms, too.

But, catnip is an herb not commonly used. I think it should be. Here are the many reasons for thinking so.

Catnip as an Insect Repellant

Catnip is a very effective insect repellant against mosquitoes, other kinds of flies (like gnats and no see-ums), and cockroaches. I find it works just slapping the branch of a catnip plant on my person. However, catnip macerated in an oil works, too; as well as catnip essential oil in a spray (even though it is catnip, do not use this on your cat – they do not process essential oils through their liver very well). Studies back this natural insect repellant claim. Check the following sites out:

http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2001/08/010828075659.htm

http://www.bioone.org/doi/abs/10.1603/0046-225X(2004)033[1562:CNCLLC]2.0.CO;2

http://www.ars.usda.gov/research/publications/publications.htm?SEQ_NO_115=158336

And:

http://www.nfm-online.com/tabId/105/itemId/2980/Never-mind-the-DEET--bug-off-naturally.aspx

There are many, many sites you may explore for more studies of this type. Google catnip studies. You may also be interested in the strewing properties of catnip.

Catnip as a Nervine Tea

The first few books I picked up on herbs indicated Catnip tea would settle the nerves. I had also read bee balm (monarda) tea relaxes the muscles. I thought – what a magnificent pair. So, I made tea from these two herbs many, many times. It is a knockout flavor with a wonderful feeling of contentment when I enjoy this brew. I also think you shouldn’t drink an herbal tea on the run – it is to be enjoyed thoroughly while relaxing and putting our feet up to do so. Now, some say that is what relaxes a person – sitting down to drink the tea. Well, and if it is? I, personally, think the combination of sitting and drinking the tea is what does the trick. They both work toward relaxing our bodies.

My infant son also knows catnip tea. By the dropper, he learned the benefits of catnip on the colon and digestive involuntary muscles – relaxing them so that he could pass gas.

The following sites indicate others who advocate drinking catnip tea. This is also a controversial subject.

http://elitehealthresources.com/medicine/understanding-the-benefits-of-catnip-tea.php

http://www.localharvest.org/catnip-tea-C5519

http://catnipteaguide.com/

Catnip with its side effects

This is a new side of catnip for me. My books only mention women expecting a baby should avoid catnip because of its effect on menstruation. I had a customer who is taking neurontin to check online to see if it is okay to also drink catnip tea. Well, I did, and first I found this: http://books.google.com/books?id=NtbGLKxC7SgC&pg=PA155&lpg=PA155&dq=neurontin+interaction+with+catnip&source=bl&ots=wFfVNmVRRg&sig=gjRpsuaeOipqJCKRtgY7F3B7WgI&hl=en&ei=AQBSSufmD4OGtgeWjMyyBA&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=6 on page 155 – reads the warning I found the day I researched this for her. Today, I’m trying to find that same site – and I cannot find it after several, several searches. But, instead, I found several serious sites that back data that there are no serious interactions documented that deal with catnip.

See these sites:

http://www.drugs.com/npc/catnip.html (at this site, I checked the interactions page – and none came up.)

http://www.peacehealth.org/kbase/cam/hn-2063002.htm (this site indicates catnip is not very powerful, period.)

So, I have to go back with my gut feeling and say catnip is safe. But, I sure would use low doses if I took other medicines just to be safe.

This is a long blog post – and I apologize. Catnip is not a very simple herb. But, it is wonderful. I hope you have a chance to experience it sometime.

Post written by Sweet Creek Herbs

Etsy Finds: Great Bath Signs and Decals

2009-08-13T07:00:00.001-04:00

Bath decals and wall stickers are a cool new way to enhance your bathroom decor. You can give life to a dull bathroom with these simple signs or decals found on Etsy:

Got Soap vinyl decal by SweetPeaLiving

Soak- Vinyl Wall Lettering Decor by SimplyStickItDesigns

Bath, Vinyl Lettering wall words decals by CasaBellaVinyl

Do Not Eat The Soap MAGNET by Signs

Posted by Spa Therapy Works

Three Reasons why you should switch to a Handmade Aluminum- Free Deodorant

2009-08-11T07:00:00.000-04:00

The Pits veggie protein deodorant by bunnybuttapothecary

1. Most “deodorants” found in stores are not true deodorants, but antiperspirants containing Aluminum-based compounds that form a temporary plug within the sweat ducts to stop the flow of sweat to the skin's surface. Some research suggests that aluminum-based compounds, which are applied frequently and left on the skin near the breast, may be absorbed by the skin and cause estrogen-like effects

Since Estrogen has the ability to promote the growth of breast cancer cells, some scientists believe that the Aluminum-based compounds in antiperspirants may contribute to the development of breast cancer. *Aluminum has also been linked to Alzheimers, respiratory disorders and neurological disorders, though more research need to be done to confirm these studies.

True deodorants work by killing the bacteria that causes odor when we sweat. It doesn’t interfere with the sweating process, which is after all, our body’s natural way of regulating temperature and releasing toxins.

2. Handmade deodorants give you a much larger choice of scents like, Sandalwood Vanilla, Lavender, Plumeria or Mango Lassi. Some sellers might even be able to make you a deodorant in a custom scent.

3. You are supporting a small business and buying handmade!

* Darbre PD. Aluminium, antiperspirants and breast cancer. Journal of Inorganic Biochemistry 2005; 99(9):1912–1919.

Lemongrass sage veggie deodorant by Two Rivers Soap Company

Pink Cupcake Vegan deodorant stick by Spa Therapy Works