Baldwins Blog: Aromatherapy Products, Essential Oils, Base Oils, Incenses At Baldwins

8 Best Chinese Herbs

2010-06-28T23:51:00.000-07:00

There are a very large number of Chinese herbs that are thought to help a variety of illnesses and ailments, from the very serious to the relatively minor. I have compiled a list of some of the most popular and what they can be used for.

Ginseng - This is a common herb that is said to aid healing and rejuvenation. It is particularly good at replenishing the body with fluids that have been lost and also aids the removal of toxins from the body. Ginseng tea is a common method of consuming this powerful herb.
Reishi Mushrooms - These are considered to be powerful immune system boosters, that increase antioxidants in the body as well as increasing the vitality of white blood cells. These mushrooms are also said to have a calming influence on the body and are able to help fight insomnia.
Lotus Seed - The Lotus Seed aids the function of the spleen and kidneys. It helps reduce diarrhea and also stimulate appetite.
Licorice Root - Well known for its detoxification abilities, this root invigorates the body whilst simultaneously cooling it down.
Ginko Biloba - This is one of the oldest Chinese herbs. It is said to have positive effects on the lungs and heart as well as able to fight coughs, asthma and a host of allergies. It is one of the most popular natural remedies taken.
Ephedra - This herb fights asthma and stimulates blood pressure and heart function too. It also stimulates glands, tissue and muscle in the body as well as increasing the secretion of adrenalin.
Astralagus - This is used to build up the immune system by increasing the function of the blood cells.
Albizzia Flower and Bark - A herb that is used to combat emotional problems. It has calming properties that have a positive effect on the body and brain.

These are some of the most common and popular Chinese herbs used around the world. If any of you have used these or other Chinese herbs, we’d love to hear about your experience. Send in your comments below.

Bach flower remedies for temper tantrums

2010-06-21T06:38:00.000-07:00

Bach flower remedies have long been believed to provide homeopathic help to adults for a variety of ailments and conditions, but is there any reason why children cannot benefit too?

The idea behind Bach flower remedies is that they help the body heal itself by ensuring there is complete balance in the body at both an emotional and mental level. The remedies consist of highly diluted flower and plant substances that are ingested, usually via a drop or two of liquid under the tongue. By curing the underlying problem of the illness or symptoms, the body can heal, repair itself and return to optimum health.

None of the flowers or plants that are used are toxic and the level of dilution is high making them safe for anyone to take. It is also impossible to “overdose” on a flower remedy. There are 38 flower remedies in total, each one directed towards a particular emotional state or state of mind. For example:

Vine is designed for people who are overly dominant

Chicory is for those who are too possessive and demanding of attention

Holly is suitable for people with anger or jealously directed at other people.

Whilst many of the remedies would be unnecessary for children who haven’t yet developed the corresponding emotional state, some of the remedies could be very relevant indeed. A child who is throwing continued temper tantrums following the birth of a sibling could be the perfect candidate for a dose of “holly.” A child who has a tantrum when continued attention is not given may be helped with “chicory.”

Identifying the root cause of the tantrums is the first step towards prescribing Bach remedies to a child. Although no harm will be caused if the wrong remedy is selected, the problem won’t be helped unless it is. Dealing with temper tantrums is par for the course when raising children, but repeated tantrums can cause distress to all members of the family. It’s good to know that Bach remedies are there for us when all else has failed.

If you have either used Bach flower remedies yourself, or on your children, please send in your comments below. If it worked, if it didn’t and how your child responded are some of the questions we’d love to have answered!

Why Choose Natural Soaps?

2010-06-10T23:05:00.000-07:00

There are many reasons to avoid commercial produced detergent bars that are commonly dressed up as “soap”.

For a start, the glycerine that is a naturally occurring by-product in the soap making process is removed by manufacturers and sold to other companies in the beauty industry as a lucrative side-line. Glycerine helps stop the skin drying out so it is a vital component of any product being put on your skin. Secondly, there are synthetic lathering agents used in commercial soap as well as other chemicals and artificial colours. At best they are just harsh on your skin, at worst exposure to some of these chemicals has been linked to cancer.

The skin is porous and absorbs creams, water and any substance that is put on it. We know it is bad for our health to consume manufactured and processed food, and the same can be said for using commercial soaps. Aside from the negative effects on our health, these chemically filled commercial soaps are bad for the environment too, filling the eco-system with pollutants and toxic substances.

The alternative is all natural, organic handmade soap that is good for your skin and kind on the environment. People think all ‘soap’ is bad for our skin - that is simply not true. It is the detergent style soap bars that are bad for our skin, the ones containing the chemicals and toxins. When looking to purchase a pleasant and natural soap, look for those that are made with pure or essential oils and fats. Any plants that have been used in the soap should be certified as organic and avoid anything with artificial colour or fragrances. The label will provide all the information you need so make sure you have a quick check over the ingredients list and product information found on it before purchase.

If any of you have noticed a difference between commercial and homemade natural soap bars, send in your comments here.

Uses of Beeswax

2010-05-28T06:06:00.000-07:00

Beeswax is actually a very versatile product and can be used for wide range of purposes. Here is a guide to the top 5 uses of beeswax.

As a lip balm

Beeswax is the perfect base to make moisturising lip balm. There are plenty of recipes to choose from, but generally speaking the way to make lip balm this way is to melt some beeswax over a pan of boiling water and then add in one or more essential oils of your choice. Stir thoroughly and once the mixture has melted, pour it into a container using a funnel.

As a leather protector

Beeswax mixed with resin makes the perfect leather protector. It even makes it waterproof. This substance can be used on shoes, belts, briefcases or any other leather product you want to keep looking as new.

Ingredients: 4 ounces beeswax, 1 pint vegetable oil and 4 ounces rosin/resin (can be purchased at a music shop)

The beeswax should be melted over a pan of boiling water. Then add the vegetable oil and resin and stir until mixed thoroughly. Ideally this mixture should be applied to leather while it is still warm for ease.

Wax crayons

Children love wax crayons to draw and colour with. They are totally safe as they are non-toxic so are perfect for use by kids.

Ingredients: 1 ounce beeswax, 1 ounce grated soap, concentrated food coloring

Heat the beeswax in a bowl over a pan of hot water. Add the grated soap and stir until it has all melted. Add the food colouring drop by drop until it has reached the desired colour. Pour the mixture into moulds made from tin foil. Once cooled they are ready to be used.

Furniture Polish

Beeswax makes an effective furniture polish. Simply mix equal parts of beeswax, linseed oil and turpentine whilst gently heating them in a bowl of hot water. When the mixture is cool put a little on a soft rag and use to polish all your wooden furniture.

Copper preservative

Beeswax stops the oxidation of copper which can look unsightly when it appears. When sealing a copper item, simply soften some beeswax and then apply it to the item on a soft cloth or rag. This will remove any oxidation residue and prevent further from appearing.

Beeswax can of course also be used to make candles and a variety of other beauty and cosmetics further to the uses listed above.

5 Reasons to Make your own Soap

2010-05-27T00:16:00.000-07:00

You are in control of what goes in

If you don’t want to expose you or your family to harsh chemicals then making your own soap can guarantee they won’t be. You can control the ingredients used, the colour, the texture and smell as well as the ingredients that are included.

It makes a wonderful present

Homemade soap is a very thoughtful and nice present to give someone. Not only are they relatively cheap to make, they can be beautiful to look at and of course are a pleasure to use. They are a great item to fill your present drawer with too so if you are ever stuck without a gift for someone, you can head straight for your soap!

There are no chemicals included

The ingredient list on the back of a soap packet can display all sorts of unrecognizable chemicals. If you make your own soap you can guarantee it is chemical free. Furthermore, you can add your own ideas and turn soap into a nice, healthy product by including all sorts of additional essential oils and essences.

It saves you money

Making soap is definitely a cheaper alternative to buying it. Also, once you’ve been bitten by the soap making bug, the chances are you will want to start making other natural products like washing powder, floor cleaner and maybe even other cosmetics. It is possible to save a bundle when you make all cleaning products and cosmetics yourself.

It’s fun

There is no doubt about it, making soap is both a fun and satisfying hobby. You can let your creatively run wild, adding differing natural items, oils, essences and more into the recipes and even make some nice packaging to finish off the products. The whole family can get involved too so it can be a family project that you can all enjoy together.

Australian Bush Combination Drops

2010-05-20T23:26:00.000-07:00

The Australian Bush Combination drops are flower essences designed to replace panic, anxiety and fear within ourselves with the ability to cope. Similar to Bach’s Rescue Remedy in this way, the Australian Bush Combination Drops are designed to bring forth good qualities and emotions within ourselves whilst simultaneously expelling the negative ones.

Flower essences have been used as a natural remedy for thousands of years. They work on the mind, body and spirit and are obtained by extracting the healing quality of the most evolved part of a plant - its flower. They work purely on an emotional level to treat imbalances in the body in order to achieve optimum health.

Many great healers and thinkers of the past believed that only by achieving spiritual, emotional and mental harmony could a patient’s illnesses and diseases be cured. The Bush Essences are a complete range of products designed to provide sensitivity, strength and courage to the individual in order to help them listen and follow their natural intuition as well as pursue their goals and dreams.

The Bush Essences take each negative emotion and replace it with a good one. Hate gets replaced with love, fear replaced with courage, insecurities with self-confidence - the list goes on and on! The Australian Bush Combination Drops are now available in a handy spray bottle that is small enough to be carried in a handbag. It is ideal for helping to deal with emotional upset and has a calming effect in a crisis.

Have any of you tried using any of the Australian Bush Essences? We want to hear from you whether the results were positive or negative, so don’t hesitate to send in your comments below.

Aromatherapy for Healthy Legs and Feet - A guide for home use

2010-05-19T02:10:00.000-07:00

The feet and legs are often the most neglected part of the body in terms of care and attention, however they are both incredibly important to overall health. Learning how to carry out aromatherapy on your feet and legs is a great way of ensuring your health will stay in tip top condition.

There is plenty of information found in our guide “Aromatherapy for Healthy Legs and Feet” here at Baldwin's that will teach you all you need to know for foot and leg care and general well being. There is information about preventing and curing common ailments as well as a step by step guide to foot and leg massages using specially formulated essential oils.

For those interested in aromatherapy and massages, here are some good tricks for massaging feet to keep them in good condition:

This is to be carried out on someone else (rather than on yourself).

Take the foot in your lap and rub a little essential oil into your palms. Place one hand on top of the foot, and one underneath and gently slide your hands off the foot coming forward towards the toes. Repeat this 4 or 5 times.

Gently circle around the ankles with your thumbs. All these movements should be slow and soothing and not too hard as sometimes the ankles especially can be tender.

Next rub over the top of the foot with your thumbs making circular movements. Move from the ankles towards the toes and repeat a few times.

Rub each toe with similar circular movements and then rotate each toe both in a clockwise and anti-clockwise direction.

Gently pull each toe between your finger and thumb and then rotate the entire foot both clockwise and anti-clockwise.

One final exercise is to rub the foot within your hands to create friction. When the foot is warm it can be placed in a towel whilst you take the other foot and repeat the whole process.

Send in any other exercises you have for carrying out soothing foot massages. Also let us know if you have the aromatherapy guide and if you find it useful.

Skin Creams

2010-04-23T04:29:00.000-07:00

Sometimes it is nice to mix up your skin care routine a little bit to incorporate some new products and ideas. By doing this you can unearth products that you might not otherwise have discovered that are perfect for you and make your skin look great even without any makeup.

Baldwins have a lovely range of skin care products that many of our readers have absolutely loved, so I thought I’d write a little bit here about them here to tell more people about them! The range of pomegranate, bilberry and rose skincare products are a little piece of luxury for your skin. They smell wonderful, are non-greasy and include an essential oil blend that revitalises and rejuvenates skin.

Pomegranate is very good for the skin because research has shown that it can provide an extra layer of SPF protection against the sun. It helps repair skin cells and in this way acts as a very good anti-aging cream. Pomegranates are very rich in omega 5 which is a very important fatty acid for keeping the skin looking youthful and vibrant.

Bilberry is not a very common berry, but it is related to the blueberry and cranberry. Like most berries it is a very powerful antioxidant and it also has anti-inflammatory properties. Creams and lotions with extract of bilberry are particularly good for those with irritated skin or even psoriasis as it can help calm the discomfort and reduce inflammation.

Rose has long been used in face creams and products as it is excellent at supporting the skin’s natural balance of moisture and keeping it from drying out. Rose extract helps battle premature skin aging and leaves it feeling silky soft throughout the day.

As you can see, the 3 main ingredients of the Baldwin’s skin care product range are perfect for skin and provide a combination sure to keep your skin looking good. If you would like to try out this range of products you can order online so it couldn’t be easier.

I would love for one of our readers to tell us a little bit about the creams, toners and lotions within this range so send in your comments below.

The Yoga of Herbs

2010-04-12T23:15:00.000-07:00

We’ve all heard of yoga before now, thanks in part to the Queen of pop herself, Madonna, but have you heard of the Yoga of Herbs?

The Yoga of Herbs is a book containing the detailed explanation and classification of herbs using the ancient system of Ayurveda, an ancient alternative medicine and healing system. All of the most important and influential herbs are included in this fascinating book including the most commonly used western herbs. All are introduced and explained with a profound Ayurvedic perspective and accompanied by a wealth of beautiful diagrams and charts, as well as detailed glossaries, appendices and an index for easy reference.

The system of Ayurveda is the traditional medicine native to the Indian Subcontinent. It is considered an alternative medicine and remains very influential across South East Asia. Involved in the process of Ayurveda medicine is how herbs, massage and yoga can help cure illness and prevent disease. It is “designed” to not only heal the physical body and keep it strong, but also the mind and spiritual self. The idea is that by keeping all three aspects healthy a person can stay free from a host of conditions or be cured of illness.

Everything from what food to eat, what healthy routines to adopt and a list of rules of ethical conduct are involved with the system of Ayurveda. In this respect it is an all encompassing system for health and is practiced widely across the East, becoming more popular in the West all the time.

Have any of you either read this book “The Yoga of Herbs” or had any experience with the ancient healing system of Ayurveda? As always we would love to hear you ideas and stories so please feel free to write in and leave your comments.

James Wong Returns to the BBC

2010-04-05T06:20:00.000-07:00

Here at Baldwins we are thrilled to see James Wong back on our screens on the BBC with his second series of “Grow Your Own Drugs”. Because James Wong was a customer at Baldwins long before his TV programme was commissioned, he chose us as his main supplier for many of the ingredients used during his first series, and again during the current series that is now showing on BBC2.

We of course were delighted to oblige and were even more pleased to receive a recommendation by James in his first book that accompanied the original series back in 2009. James even came into our shop for a book signing! The staff here at Baldwins have once again enjoyed working closely with the production crew and are tuning in every week to see James in action with many of our products.

For those who are not familiar with either James Wong or the series, it is about how common plants, herbs and other natural ingredients often which are sitting in your kitchen cupboard already, can be used to create a number of natural drugs (or alternatives to drugs). The programme is inspiring and interesting and evidently a huge hit with viewers everywhere. No doubt we will see plenty more of James Wong on our screens over the next few years.

If you would like to know more about either James Wong or his recipes and ingredients, you can drop us a line here at Baldwins and talk to a member of staff. Have any of you tried the recipes of James Wong? Do you enjoy watching his show and find it as inspiring as we do? Send in your comments below.

Homemade cough syrup

2010-03-26T01:08:00.000-07:00

If you too are suffering from a tickly cough or a cold at the moment, then you might like to try this homemade cold and flu medicine. It’s easy to make, cheap and works brilliantly to soothe the throat, breakdown phlegm and prevent coughing.

First of all, squeeze the juice of a lemon into a bowl. Using a fork, try and scrape as much of the pulp out too as this is all good stuff in the fight against colds and coughs. Lemon dissolves phlegm which makes it the perfect base for a cold and fly medicine. Take 3 to 5 cloves of garlic, peel and grate into the lemon juice. Use as much garlic as you can handle. You will probably need to keep trying it to see what it tastes like. Garlic also dissolves phlegm, particularly in the chest and throat.

Add the same amount of honey as lemon juice into the mixture. Honey also helps break down phlegm and it provides a soothing coat for the throat which often become inflamed and sore from coughing excessively. Honey is a natural preservative and kills infections too. It is an all round excellent remedy for a host of illnesses.

Once the lemon, garlic and honey have been mixed together well, place in a glass jar with a lid and refrigerate. Keeping it cool will stop the garlic from being so potent and it will keep it fresh for longer.

One of the nice things about this recipe is that there are many other variations you can try. For example adding grated ginger will help battle a cold, or a dash of cayenne pepper might just do the trick too by giving it some kick! For something less dramatic, some dried or even fresh peppermint to the base mixture will help rid you of your cold and flu symptoms.

Have you any other homemade recipes or herbal remedies to share? Send in your comments below.

Homemade Cosmetics: Beeswax

2010-03-24T04:57:00.000-07:00

Beeswax can be used in a variety of cosmetics, creams and other beauty products that you are making at home. It works wonderfully as a thickening agent and emulsifier and can be used in the creation of hand creams, lotions, moisturizers, lip balms, hair products and plenty more cosmetics besides. It has soothing and softening properties that when used on the skin can help it retain moisture. Historically beeswax has been used as an antiseptic and research shows it was used to help heal wounds in days gone by.

Here are some very simple recipes for making cosmetics at home:

Moisturing Vitamin E Cream

4 oz. sweet almond oil
1 oz. beeswax
2 oz. water
10 drops Vitamin E oil
10 drops lavender essential oil

Melt the oil and the wax then remove from heat, add water and stir thoroughly.
Add Vitamin E oil, essential oil and stir continuously until cool.
Once cool, poor into a cosmetic jar.

That is it. It is excellent for rough or particularly dry skin and provides excellent nourishment.

Coconut Butter Body Moisturizer

2 tablespoons beeswax
2 teaspoons distilled water
4 oz. cocoa butter
4 tablespoons sweet almond
2 tablespoons coconut oil

Melt the beeswax over a very low heat with the water.
Gradually add the cocoa butter and stir well to blend thoroughly.
Gradually blend in oils until mixed thoroughly and pour into a glass cosmetic jar.

The lotion will thicken as it cools so don’t worry if it is quite thin and runny at first. It is particularly soothing for wind chapped or sun burnt skin.

Hand Cream

2 ounces beeswax
1 cup sweet almond oil
1 cup water
10 drops essential oil (if desired, for fragrance)

Heat the beeswax and sweet almond oil together until the wax melts.
In another container, heat the water until warm. The mixtures must not get too hot - it should still be possible to touch them.
Place the warm water in a food processor and whilst on high speed, slowly add the beeswax-oil mixture.
When most of the oil has been added, the mixture should begin to thicken.
At this point, add the essential oil. Continue to add oil and blend until the mixture is sufficiently thickened.
Spoon the thick cream into cosmetic jars.

These are some really simple recipes that produce some wonderful products. If any of you know other recipes, send them in to us here at Baldwins.

Natural Ways to Treat Psoriasis

2010-03-22T05:49:00.000-07:00

Psoriasis can vary in its severity, but causes serious discomfort and problems for those who suffer from it. The main symptoms are patches of raised skin with silvery white “scales”. It is thought that stress, smoking or even excessive drinking can be triggers which lead to the inflammation and over production of skin.

Tackling it can be troublesome. Research into the condition has shown that although there are many triggers, its underlying cause stems from the immune system. Over the counter medicines can therefore provide short term relief, but as they are designed to treat the outward symptoms only they do not always keep the condition at bay for very long.

The best chance you have for freeing yourself from psoriasis altogether is to tackle it from the inside out. That means strengthening your immune system first, and then dealing with the external symptoms.

The first step to treating psoriasis is therefore to build up your immune system by taking the following vitamin and mineral supplements:

Evening Primrose Oil - Improves dry and flaky skin conditions

Flax Seed Oil - Improves the condition of the skin and nails and reduces the inflammation of skin cells.

Borage Oil - Reduces dryness and scaliness and itchiness.

Zinc - Vital for healthy skin, hair and nails and promotes good growth.

The next step is to treat the outward symptoms and try and reduce the discomfort and appearance of the condition. It is important to apply creams with the following ingredients for this purpose:

Aloe Vera - Hydrates and rejuvenates the skin. It is also a good healing cream that helps reduce pain.

Calendula - Helps blood circulation and the regeneration of skin. It will also help strengthen the skin cells.

Thirdly, bathe in Dead Sea salts at least once per week. The healing properties of the Dead Sea are well known. The salt concentration is ten times higher than normal ocean water and there are rare minerals present that have shown to reduce inflammation and heal skin tissues.

Next you should give your diet an overhaul. Foods that allow toxins or even cause toxins to build up should be avoided. Therefore no spicy foods, alcohol, seafood or red meat but instead a diet of fruit, vegetables and nuts with a moderate amount of fish, chicken and eggs.

Finally you should examine your stress levels. Stress is one of the most well known underlying causes of psoriasis and a host of other illnesses too. By reducing stress in your life you will likely see a dramatic improvement on your psoriasis condition. Get plenty of sleep and exercise and practice proper relaxation to help you rid yourself of stress.

If anyone has any further suggestions on how to tackle psoriasis in a natural way, send in your comments below.

Massage Oils

2010-03-12T05:43:00.000-08:00

Last week we had a look at how to make homemade massage oils using base oils and some drops of essential oils. I thought this week it would therefore be a good idea to provide some ideas of the types of blends you can make.

Because both the carriers and essential oils have different properties they all have unique advantages that can be used to target differing things. Dry skin, blemished skin, even cold and fly symptoms, choosing the right blend can really help.

Here is a quick guide to some of the best blends of oil that you can make in the home.

Lavender Massage Oil: Lavender is excellent for feeling calm and sending you off to sleep, so a lavender oil is perfect for use at the end of a long day. It has a lovely smell that is a great natural way to life you mood. If you have just the essential oil at home, a few drops in your bath (or your childrens’ bath) will help relax and calm you.

Eucalyptus Oil: This is ideal for treating the onset of cold and flu symptoms. It also relieves muscular aches and pains so it a good massage oil to be used after intense activity, or the day after when you are finding moving difficult! Children shouldn’t get too close to it however although it is good for clearing their stuffy noses. Simply place some oil on a tissue and let them sniff it or place a drop on their pillow before bed.

Oils for normal skin: The recipe for making an oil for normal skin (skin that is neither very greasy nor very dry) is 30ml Almond Oil + 20ml Thistle Oil + 38ml Jojoba Oil + 2ml Vitamin E. This blend will nourish and moisturize normal skin.

Baby Oil: Baby oil can me made at home quite simply. The following ingredients should be blended together. 38ml Avocado Oil + 40ml Shea Butter Oil + 20ml Thistle Oil + 2ml Vitamin E.

You can have a try at home and come up with your own recipes. Making massage oils and aromatherapy oils is a fun pass time. Have any of you got any other ideas for nice blends of oils? Send in your thoughts below.

How to make Massage Oil

2010-03-10T05:25:00.000-08:00

You can make massage oil or aromatherapy oil at home quite easily. All you need are the essential oils of your choosing and a carrier oil, or base oil to blend it with.

There are a few different type of carrier oil, and each one has its own unique qualities. The first step is to choose the one you want. Some common base oils include:

Avocado Oil: This is a good source of vitamins A,B and D and is a medium weight oil. Those who have very greasy skin may want to choose a lighter oil, similarly those with very dry skin might want something stronger. It is particularly good for wrinkles.
Sweet Almond Oil: This is a heavy oil that is suitable for those with very dry skin. It is a good choice if you are wanting to massage your feet which tend to be have very dry skin. It is very rich in vitamins A, B1, B2 and B6.
Grapeseed Oil: This is is a lightweight oil so good for treating quite greasy skin. Grapeseed oil is a a good source of a variety of vitamins and minerals. It is excellent for light massages and is water-dispersible too.
Jojoba Oil: This is actually a wax, not an oil but it is one of the best carrier oils when making massage oils at home. It is very stable and will last a long time. It is a good base to choose if you are dealing with blemished skin or acne.

Once you’ve selected the carrier oil, choose one or two essential oils of your choosing and mix them together using the following quantities:

6 teaspoons of carrier oil + 8 drops of essential oil.

Essential oils are concentrated extracts and not at all appropriate to rub straight on to the skin. This can be dangerous. That is why carrier or base oils are used to dilute them first. The base oil is also important as it stops the essential oil from evaporating too.

Have any of you got any more tips for base oils? Send in your ideas below.

Incense

2010-02-19T05:03:00.000-08:00

Incense the word comes from the Latin word “incendere” which means to burn. It is used in reference to materials that release an aromatic smoke and fragrance when lit. Incense is often used in religious ceremonies, for medicine, aromatherapy and for general aesthetic reasons. Incense has been made into many different forms, shapes and sizes over the hundreds and thousands of years it has been in existence, but commonly today we think of incense as joss sticks or small coloured cones. It has been known to be in the forms of pastes, powders, liquids and oils however.

A wide variety of ingredients have been used to make incense historically speaking, but there has always been a preference for using locally sourced ingredients. Various different types of plant extracts are used in the preparation of incense including essential oils and resins and gums which form a dough like substance when mixed with water. Gums and resins make excellent fixers which is why they are used throughout the incense and perfume industry.

You can use many ingredients found in the garden when you are making incense such as herbs and spices, but using a gum is a good idea as it will hold the other ingredients together well in a dough like substance which makes the incense sticks or cones or other type of incense you are making, easier to prepare.

If any of you have any recipes or preparation techniques for making incense, please send them in to us here at Baldwins. We sell a range of essential oils and gums for making incense here at Baldwins so feel free to browse our site. If you have any questions about us or of course any of our products, don’t hesitate to contact a member of our team. We would be only too pleased to answer your questions and provide further information.

How to banish the winter blues

2010-02-01T02:39:00.000-08:00

January is always a difficult month with the excitement of Christmas over and spring nowhere in sight! Here are a few ideas on how to lift the winter blues in quick and easy ways:

1. Play with a dog! This may seem like strange one, but just having fun with a dog for a few minutes a day has been shown in scientific studies to lift your spirits and act as an antidote for depression. You don’t need to rush out to buy a dog; borrow your neighbour's!

2. Sniff a lemon! Again, another strange suggestion, but the smell of citrus has a positive effect on moods according to some scientists.

3. Eat fish twice a week. Omega-3 is excellent at keeping depression at bay. Just 2 portions of mackerel or salmon a week is all you need. Flaxseed is also good and can be sprinkled on anything from ice-cream to omelettes.

4. Take a daily multi-vitamin. This will make sure the body is topped up with all the vitamins and minerals it needs. Vitamin B is particularly good for lifting the mood.

5. Get regular massages. Just 10 or 20 minutes of back massages a few times a week is enough to lift your mood dramatically. It is possibly due to a boost in serotonin levels.

6. Stay up all night. Don’t attempt this if you have to be at work the next day, but staying up all night allows the body to readjust its internal clock so you sleep better in the following days and weeks even.

7. Go for regular walks during the day. Exercise is one of the ultimate mood enhancers so get those trainers on and get out there!

8. Sleep in a different room. This is particularly for those who have trouble sleeping (often due to depression). Having a break from your normal sleeping routine can help you get more sleep.

If any of you have any other suggestions on quick and easy ways to boost your mood, send them in.

What is Chinese Medicine?

2010-01-21T23:26:00.000-08:00

Chinese Medicine is the oldest healing system in the world, dating back as far as the 3rd Century BC. The whole idea is based on the principals of yin and yang which are opposite yet complementary universal forces and create balance within the body to allow the free flow of life energy (called qi).

Long term treatment has been known to cure patients of a range of symptoms that they never once associated with their main injury or complaint. It can also improve our body awareness and strengthen the immune system to aid a long and healthy life. The most commonly treated disorders by Chinese Medicine are anxiety, depression, arthritis, migraines, joint pain, asthma, colds and flu symptoms.

It has adapted well over the years so it is still as relevant today as it has always been. Research continues throughout the world into this ancient healing method and the tools involved.

Acupuncture is the most well known tool of Chinese Medicine. This method works by increasing circulation around the body and therefore stimulating the body’s healing process. During an acupuncture treatment endorphins are released which not only relaxes the body but it also regulates serotonin in the brain. Small needles are inserted into the patient’s skin in particular places according to the complaint or illness that needs treating. The needles are placed along the patient’s meridians (which are essentially pathways along which qi travels). By tapping into the energy in this way, the body can restore its balance and rid itself of the complaint for good.

Herbs and herbal remedies are a big part of Chinese Medicine. Herb formulations can be made from all sources including animal, mineral, fruit, seed and plant sources. Generally the herbal remedies can be taken in either a pill or tablet form, or as a tea. Here at Baldwin’s we have a range of products available and if you would like to know more about any of them, don’t hesitate to get in touch.

Have any of you tried Chinese Medicine? Did it work and cure you of the complaint? Send in your comments about Chinese Medicine below.

St John’s Wort

2010-01-19T01:33:00.000-08:00

This herbal remedy has become very widely used around the world in the past couple of decades. It is considered by doctors and scientists across the globe as a valid form of medication for mild to moderate depression. Mental health problems, in particular depression are very prevalent throughout the world, and many sufferers rely on medication or anti-depressants to help. St John’s Wort offers a totally natural treatment for depression and because of this there are absolutely no side effects.

It isn’t so surprising that a natural substance such as St John’s Wort (Hypericum perforatum) would be an effective medication as many of the drugs and medicines we see on the shelves today have a plant or flower base to them. Hundreds of tests and experiments have been carried out to determine what illnesses or conditions St John’s Wort is effective for treating. These have included depression, obsessive compulsive disorder, HIV, anxiety disorder, seasonal affective disorder and even dermatitis. Whilst many of first test results showed promising results for a good selection of these illnesses, there is not currently enough scientific evidence to suggest that St John’s Wort is an effective treatment for anything other than mild to moderate depression. However for this condition, St John’s Wort is a very powerful aid.

Time and time again scientific tests show St John’s Wort to be effective at tackling depression. It should be stated however that it is not very effective in cases of very severe or extreme depression, but for the millions of people who are affected by mild to moderate depression, it is an excellent medication. It allows people to be free from chemically produced drugs for which prescriptions are needed. Have any of you tried St John’s Wort and have you found it be effective? We would love to hear your comments or suggestions about this herbal remedy.

New Year Resolutions

2010-01-14T23:49:00.000-08:00

I can’t believe it is 2010! When I was young, that was a date that was never going to arrive, and yet here we are. I love the New Year because it always feels like a new start. Every year I make a list of resolutions that I am convinced I will definitely stick to but rarely seem to. This year is going to be different though because I’ve ensured I’ve only made a few, and I plan to tackle them one by one rather than all at the same time.

My first resolution is to give up fizzy drinks and caffeine altogether. That means no coffee or even tea. I will replace fizzy drinks with water or squash, and coffee and tea with herbal teas and fruit teas.

My second resolution is to find a sport that I really enjoy. It is important to get lots of exercise, but it is best if it doesn’t feel like a chore. That is why I am heading down to the local sports centre to see what classes are available.

Finally, I am going to develop my interest in aromatherapy. I have always practiced it and I have a good basic understanding, but I want to learn more and find out everything there is to know. I have found it to be an effective and powerful tool for combatting a variety of symptoms such as stress, anxiety or insomnia, but I know there is so much more to learn.

I am hoping that by keeping the list short and sweet, I am going to see success in my goals. Committing publicly to a a task is a good way of making sure it happens. Why don’t you write your resolutions below. You might just find them easier to stick to if you publicly declare them.

How to motivate yourself to exercise

2009-12-21T22:09:00.000-08:00

Last week we discussed why exercise is so important, regardless of age and current physical condition. Today I thought it would be helpful to discuss how you can get yourself motivated to put on those trainers and get moving, because this can be very difficult and often is the obstacle that prevents people from exercising at all.

Focusing on the positive things you will get out of exercise is a great way of motivating yourself. Whether that’s the decreasing number on the bathroom scale, the cupboard full of clothes you will soon be wearing again, or even just the buzz and rush you feel once you’ve completed a work-out session of some kind. Focus on these positive thoughts and feelings and you will be happy to lace up your trainers and head out the door.

Finding success stories to read or even following blogs of others who are undertaking a health and fitness overhaul will offer a wealth of both inspiration and motivation. It is very helpful to read about others who are in a similar position to yourself and experiencing the same struggles, difficulties and set-backs.

Working out with a friend or family member is another great way of gaining motivation. Not only does it make the whole experience more fun, it also makes it less likely that you will miss a session, as you won’t want to let them down.

Finding exercise that you find fun is the best way of sticking to it. If you really hate going to the gym, then try something else. Aerobics classes, dance classes, tennis lessons, joining a swimming club - there are plenty of ways to be active without finding it boring or too much of a chore. Try lots of different things until you hit upon an activity or class that you can’t wait to go to every week.

If anyone has any other suggestions on how to motivate yourself to exercise please feel free to write them below.

Why exercise is important at any age

2009-12-15T21:27:00.000-08:00

Exercise and activity is one of the most important ways in which we can keep ourselves healthy. Even if you have never taken exercise seriously it is never too late to start as exercise is good for your health at any age. An active lifestyle has shown to limit the chances of developing serious illnesses like heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, strokes and even cancer.

As we get older, people are less likely to engage in regular exercise, when in fact this is just the time to be stepping it up as the best way to delay the aging process and keep our heath in tip top shape is through exercise. The aging process can weaken bones and joints and make our bodies more susceptible to illness, but exercise can lessen the effects or even prevent them altogether. Even if walking up stairs leaves you huffing and puffing, regular exercise can build your body up until you are bounding up those stairs, leaving much younger people in your wake.

Older people are often more reluctant to exercise, believing perhaps it will be too strenuous or difficult, but research has shown the opposite is actually true. Furthermore, exercise doesn’t have to be an exhausting sweat session that leaves you stiff for days. It can just be a fun activity that you enjoy doing that does nothing more than raise the heartbeat.

With exercise it is important to start small. Making small changes to our everyday lives - for example taking the stairs instead of the life, will add up to huge changes. Ideally, 30 minutes of light exercise everyday is needed, but you can just start with 10 minutes. Even 5 minutes is better than nothing. Taking that first step is all that is needed because as you get more comfortable and confident that you can do, you will automatically want to increase the time until you are doing at least 30 minutes a day.

Whatever your age or whatever your fitness level, exercise is a vital part of your health. It is not too late to start and you will feel the benefits straight away. Has anyone any good ways of staying fit without exhausting and straining yourself in the process?

Eating Better for Less

2009-12-13T21:52:00.000-08:00

Eating well is incredibly important for our overall health and wellness, but a complaint that is often made is that it simply costs too much. The high cost of organic food in particular makes it unaffordable for the majority of people which does seem strange when surely letting nature do its job uninhibited costs less than using machinery to cover crops in pesticides?

Anyway, organic food aside, it is still possible to eat very well even on a modest budget. Here are a few ideas on how you can feed your family the very best and ensure their health is of the very highest standard.

Cut down on expensive cuts of meat in favour of milk and eggs for protein. Milk and eggs are far cheaper and just as protein rich as any cut of meat and fish. There’s no need to enforce vegetarianism onto your family, just have fun searching for a couple of vegetarian recipes each week and increase the family’s consumption of milk and fresh eggs to retain high protein levels.

Only eat what is in season. It is so easy to load your trolley up at the supermarket with whatever fruits or veg are looking good that day, but if you only purchase those that are in season then you will save a packet. Ideally it is best to shop at farmers’ markets, as here you will automatically be buying only produce that is in season, what’s more you are contributing your community and helping the environment by eating locally sourced food.

Develop a taste for beans and pulses. These are probably the most inexpensive sources of nutrition available and they are packed with vitamins and protein. Any type of pulse or bean will load you up with vitamins, keep you feeling full for longer and reduce your monthly spend on food. Kids love them too!

Ditch the fizzy drinks. They are laden with sugar, cost a fortune when drunk in high quantities and do nothing to help your reach your daily nutritional needs. Instead you could try a supermarket’s own brand of fizzy water mixed with a splash of cordial or even fruit juice of some kind.

Invest in a high quality vitamin supplement. Just to make doubly sure than everyone is fit as a fiddle, it is a good idea to purchase a bumper pack of an all round vitamin supplement. Although there is a small price to pay up front, the long term health benefits far outweigh the cost.

There you have it, a few ideas to help keep those food bills down whilst eating very well. If anyone has any other ideas of information on how to save money whilst eating only the best, send in your comments below.

Spring Clean your Makeup

2009-12-09T02:23:00.001-08:00

Makeup and cosmetics like creams and perfumes all have a shelf life. Continuing to use beauty products after a certain period of time can leave you at risk from spreading bacteria and developing infections. It is important to spring clean your makeup every year to ensure that it stays fresh and totally hygienic.

The first thing to do is go through your collection and putting everything you haven’t used over the past year into a pile. Next step is easy - throw it away. This may be hard if something expensive is included, but it not a good idea to use creams or makeup that have been left for this amount of time.

With whatever is left, go through each item checking its colour, consistency and smell. Anything that has developed an odour, changed colour or changed in its consistency should also be thrown away. This is especially true of creams, mascara and liquid foundations.

At this point your collection could have shrunk dramatically. There is still work to do however. With the remaining items, try and work out when you purchased them. A mascara for example has only a shelf life of 6 months because of the sensitive nature of the eyes. Your mascara may look ok, smell ok and have a normal texture, but if you have been using it on a off for more than 6 months, it is time to part ways and throw it out. As a rule, powdered makeup has a shelf life of a year, pencils about 3 years, and liquids including foundations and creams, about 6 months. Anything that you have in your collection that has been open for longer than these periods should go.

Next is the good part where you get to purchase brand new stuff! You may feel sad and hard done by that you had to throw away what seemed like perfectly good cosmetics, but the bright side is you get to replace them.

Have any of you experienced the negative effects of old makeup or cosmetics? Send in your comments below.

Magnesium Citrate

2009-12-07T00:35:00.000-08:00

When you think about maintaining healthy and strong bones, you tend to immediately think of calcium which we are all taught ensures strong teeth and bones from a very young age. Calcium is certainly an important mineral for our bodies, but what you hear less about is the role of magnesium in the preservation of bones.

Magnesium works alongside calcium to keep our bones, tissues and muscles strong. Dairy products like milk and cheese are high in calcium, but low in magnesium levels, so it’s better to rely on green, leafy vegetables, nuts and seeds for your main source of calcium, as this will give you the magnesium you need too. Rather like a two for one deal!

Low levels of magnesium can leave the body susceptible to cardiovascular disease as studies have shown sufferers to have low levels in their hearts. Muscles are more prone to spasms when there is insufficient magnesium in the body, and even induce heart attacks as the heart itself goes into spasm. British diets do tend to be a little low on the magnesium side due to the lack of leafy vegetables contained within the majority of diets, so a supplement would be a sensible idea if you feel this sounds a bit like you.

Magnesium Citrate is available at Baldwin’s and at the moment it is on special offer. Buy one, and you get another one free. Of course, nothing is better for our minds and bodies than a good healthy diet, and plenty of exercise, but there is no harm in giving ourselves a little helping hand through one or two supplements.

Do any of you take Magnesium Citrate? Have you found it to have any affects on your body? Send in your comments below.

How to get rid of headaches

2009-12-03T22:31:00.000-08:00

Headaches and migraines are a common problem and can easily ruin a perfectly good day. Here are a few ideas on how to rid yourself of a headache in both the short and long term.

Avoid processed food
Don’t consume anything that is not totally natural when you have a headache. In particular avoid monosodium glutamate (MSG), hydrogenated oils, high fructose corn syrup, artificial sweeteners and preservatives which are often found in man-made, processed food. These types of foods create work for the body to digest which means your headache is likely to continue as the body goes into overtime dealing with these substances.

Drink water
Dehydration is one of the major causes of headaches, and even other illnesses. Water helps the kidneys function and removes toxins from the body. Drink 2 litres of water every day.

Keep blood sugar levels constant
Don’t skip any meals as this will affect your blood sugar levels. Include plenty of fruits, veggies, nuts, seeds and pulses.

Avoid chemicals
Chemical smells from perfume, deodorant, shampoos, cigarette smoke and other nasties can all contribute to the onslaught of a headache or migraine. Switch to natural shampoos, conditioners and other cosmetics to avoid this. Natural oils can be used instead of manufactured perfumes and natural cleaning products should replace chemical varieties.

Relieve stress
Don’t be afraid of gentle exercise when you have a headache. This is an excellent way of relieving stress which can reduce the severity of a headache. Yoga, meditation or even just abdominal breathing can also help.

Holistic Therapies
Acupuncture and acupressure points is effective for relieving pain from a headache. Try applying a moderate pressure to the webbing between the thumb and forefinger on both hands for 30-60 seconds. There are other places on the face, head and at the back of the skull that can help when pressure is applied. Massage, reflexology and hypnotherapy have also been shown to help battle migraine sufferers.

Have any of you any other ideas of how to combat headaches and migraines? Send in your comments below.

Flexitol Skin-Nourishing Oil

2009-12-01T22:49:00.000-08:00

The question of how to repair damaged or blemished skin often comes up, and I am happy to report that the Flexitol atomiser spray goes a very long way in helping to provide an answer. It is designed specifically to nourish skin with herbal extracts and essential oils that not only rejuvenates tired skin, but also promotes the production of new, healthy skin cells.

It helps to hide a multitude of blemishes that commonly occur on skin such as stretch marks, scars, uneven skin tone and age spots. It rehydrates skin and protects it against harsh pollutants in our environments that result from car fumes, cigarette smoke and other airborne chemicals. I often find skin treatments are too greasy for my skin, however Flexitol doesn’t seem to be greasy at all. I really like the spraying aspect as it makes it very quick and easy to use.

Only natural ingredients are found in this product and include:

Hyperloum Oil - well know for its soothing properties
Rose Hip Oil - for battling the appearance of scars and wrinkles and minimising the visible signs of aging. Rose Hip Oil also helps to balance skin tone and colour.
Calendula - soothes skin and provides dry skin with the moisture it needs whilst promoting cell growth.
Everlasting Oil - promotes cell growth and has anti-oxidant qualities
Arnlea Oil - has soothing properties for your skin
Lavender Oil - this is well known for its antiseptic qualities

I am always looking for effective, all natural skin treatments, and Flexitol offers a lot for the money. Currently at Baldwins this product is on special offer and you can get 100% extra free if you buy now.

Have any of you tried Flexitol Atomiser Spray? Did you like it or feel that it left you unsatisfied? Send in your comments below or even write your own review!

How to Store Cosmetics

2009-11-29T21:58:00.000-08:00

The storage of cosmetics and other lotions and potions is very important if you want to prolong their “shelf life” and ensure they stay fresh for longer. When makeup and other cosmetics are not stored properly, they can deteriorate rapidly. Eyeshadows for example become crumbly and soft, mascaras can go mouldy and creams can go hard and discolour.

For correct storage of cosmetics like makeup, it is sensible to invest in a hard durable fishing tackle style of box. The different compartments will allow you to organise your products carefully so you can find them quickly when you need to, and the durable nature of the box will provide long lasting protection against your products getting broken or moisture and humidity from getting inside and affecting the contents. Moisture and humidity are the biggest reasons why makeup becomes crumbly and breaks and no longer be used. For this reason it is never sensible to keep makeup in a bathroom, but instead store it well away from the bathroom in a cool, dark cupboard.

Creams and lotions need good storage too so they last as long as possible. Homemade creams especially need good storage. The best candidate for the job is white plastic pots and jars with shives. Currently Baldwins have these on special offer, so it is a good time to stock up. They come in two different sizes, 30ml and the larger 250ml. Priced well under a pound, they are very strong, durable, easy to clean and will keep your creams looking, smelling and feeling great.

Similarly with makeup, it is vital that your creams and lotions and potions are not kept in the bathroom with all that moisture and humidity that is in the air. Keep them in a cool, dry place away from sunlight. With the correct containers and the correct storage, both makeup and other cosmetics and perfumes will stay fresh for longer.

If any of you have any tips on how to store makeup and cosmetics, send in your comments below.

Protect yourself from Flu this winter

2009-11-25T04:56:00.000-08:00

Winter is upon us once again, only this year we have seen a rather rampant and dangerous flu reeking havoc across the globe that although has simmered down now, could potentially rear its ugly head again in the future. Although health care professionals in the UK seem confident another bout could be dealt with efficiently and risks kept to a minimum, there are a few natural things you can do to protect yourself and decrease the chances of catching any flu, swine or the plain old seasonal variety.

Solid deep sleep, plenty of exercise and a diet packed full of fruits and vegetables is the number one step to take. This will ensure your immune system is working at its peak performance levels which is important when battling illnesses and disease. Berries, beans and green tea are especially good for your immune system.

Try and get at least 8 hours of deep uninterrupted sleep each night. Instead of watching TV until 11, go to bed at 10 with a book and you will find yourself dropping off in no time. Watching TV tricks our bodies into thinking we are not tired, when really we are. For exercise, spend at least 30 minutes each day doing something that raises your heartbeat just a fraction. Even just hoovering the house is enough, no one is asking you to train for a marathon!

Introduce more garlic into your life if you really want to fight the flu! Studies have shown it is not just vampires that it wards off, but also cold and flu symptoms. You could make some really garlickly salad dressings, or make a healthy pizza with masses of garlic sprinkled on top. Yes, you may smell a little, but that is still better than catching a cold or even worse the flu.

Have any of you got any ideas of how to ward off colds, coughs and the flu? Send in all your comments below including any top tips you have.

Homemade Soaps

2009-11-23T04:33:00.000-08:00

Making soap is a wonderful pass time to have. Both relaxing and satisfying, you can unleash all your creativity that is undoubtedly lurking beneath the surface! Although soap is cheap to buy, it is often full of chemicals and ingredients that are not necessarily good for your skin, and can leave it irritated and dry.

When you make your own soap you can add as many ingredients as you like and design soap for a specific purpose. For example, you could make up a batch of soap designed for a pair of mechanics hands. By using ingredients such as turpentine and ground almonds for a pumice effect, this soap will clean even the most oily and grime caked hands, and leave them soft and lovely. By adding a splash of your favourite essential oil too, hands will smell wonderful as well.

Alternatively you can make clear soaps and add pretty flowers or rose petals. This will look great and with carefully selected essential oils, soap like this will be a treat for both the eyes and the nose.

Homemade soaps are a fantastic gift too. You can experiment with different packages and designs and the end result will be a fantastic looking product that you would be proud to add your name too. The chances are though you will want to keep the first batch of soap you make for yourself, as you will think it too good to give away.

There are many combinations of ingredients you can add to your soap and can experiment with a host of natural ingredients such as herbs, spices, olive oil, honey, milk, colourings even coconut. If you are looking for a hobby or fancy trying your hand at something creative, making your own soap could be just the thing.

At the moment here at Baldwins the Melt and Mold Soap Making kits are on special offer, so you can even save a few pennies in the process.

Do any of you make your own soaps? Do you have any combinations that you find work particularly well? Send in your comments.

What is a herbal tincture?

2009-11-20T03:53:00.000-08:00

A herbal tincture is an alternative to infusing herbs as the tincture can be added directly to a drink such as water or fruit juice. To make a herbal tincture, the herb is placed in a mixture of alcohol and water and then left at room temperature for 2 to 4 weeks. As this point the mixture is filtered and bottled. Generally the ratio of tinctures is 1 part herb to 3 parts liquid. The alcohol solution can vary in strength between 25% and 60%.

Because of the ease taking tinctures, they are particular popular amongst business travellers or those of us on the go. Just a few drops in a drink in the morning if all you need to do to receive the full benefits of the particular herb you taking. The small bottle is easily portable and very convenient too.

Here at Baldwin’s, not only do we offer discounts on large sizes of all our herbal tinctures, but at the moment we also have a 20% discount on our Baldwins Echinacea (angustifolia) Herbal Tincture. This is a good way to experience a herbal tincture without spending much money. You can receive all the benefits of a herbal tincture at Baldwin’s, but without any of the cost.

The benefits of herbal tinctures are numerous. Only a very small amount of the herb is needed and the solution stays potent and strong for many years. There are some herbal compounds that can only be extracted using alcohol, and the small but potent dosage goes to work right away.

Have any of you taken herbal tinctures in the past? Do you think they are something that is worthwhile, or did you not feel many of the benefits. Send in all of your comments below about herbal tinctures.

Self Sufficient Health Care

2009-10-22T21:36:00.000-07:00

Becoming self- sufficient in terms of your health means no longer relying upon over the counter treatments and remedies for your health care. For every single shop bought product, there is an all natural herbal remedy available. Often in fact, many of the chemical preparations sold contain the natural plant extract as the active ingredient.

The first step to self sufficient health care is replacing the commercial elements of your first aid kit with the natural variety. You can keep the basics such as scissors, tweezers, a thermometer, lifesaving and CPR instructions, a first aid book, assorted bandages, sterile gauze, and first aid tape, but anything further should be totally natural. So what should that involve?

Here are a few ideas of what you might add to your first aid kit:

Cayenne Pepper

Why? This is a remarkable treatment for a number of conditions. First and foremost it heals wounds and limits scarring when applied directly to a wound and it stops bleeding both internally and externally. It also prevents shock and reduces the chances of hypothermia setting in when a person is very cold. It can also relieve pain for someone suffering from a heart attack. To administer cayenne pepper for these purposes, simply dissolve one teaspoon in warm water and drink. For the purpose of aiding recovery to frost bitten parts of the body which it also is capable of doing, soak the affected area in the solution of cayenne and warm water.

Golden Seal Root, Comfrey, Oak Bark and Bayberry Bark

Golden Seal Root will counter most infections whilst the other herbs work well to heal open wounds by stopping the bleeding and encouraging the tissues around the wound to pull together and heal it quickly.

Echinacea Extract

This is the perfect natural remedy for stings and bites from insects and even more venomous bites. It should be in a powdered extract form and applied straight to the skin when required.

Ginger Root

Eaten raw, studies have shown that nausea is very effectively reduced. Include it in your emergency kit for gastro intestinal disorder and other instances of nausea.

Slippery Elm Bark

This is a very soothing herb and is an excellent treatment of minor scrapes, burns, bruises and can even be applied to your baby to soothe nappy rash. Either the dry herb can be sprinkled on to the affected area or it can be mixed with water and applied as a plaster as this solution sticks well to the skin.

This is by no means an exhaustive list of natural items that should be included in your emergency kit, but it does give you an idea of the power of some of the natural remedies available to us are. You will find that becoming self sufficient in this way is rather exhilarating and will also reap great rewards. Do any of you follow this idea already and are self sufficient in terms of health? Send in your comments below.

Why use Shea Butter?

2009-10-22T00:05:00.000-07:00

I always like to have a supply of Shea butter at home because of the amazing benefits my skin receives when I use it.

It comes from the seed of the nut produced by the Shea tree which is found only in Africa. The nut of the tree is dried and then through a process of boiling and pressing, the fat of the nut is removed and hence top quality Shea butter is produced. It is totally natural and is I believe the best moisturizer for you skin. The reason for this is that the oils within the butter are almost identical to the oils found within your own skin, so you are essentially using your skin’s own naturally occurring moisturizer on your face and body. you can’t really get more natural than that, and natural is so often best!

Benefits of using shea butter include a reduction of inflammation of the skin, reduction of the appearance of stretch marks and even the reduced appearance of wrinkles if used daily on your face. It can also help remove or reduce brown spots or age spots that are a regular occurrence on our skin as we get older.

There is no greasiness with Shea Butter either, it is absorbed quickly and easily by the skin and leaves absolutely no residue. Just daily application can lead to noticeable improvements to the skin in as little as 4 to 6 weeks.

At Baldwin’s this week, Shea Butter is on special offer, so I am going to be definitely be stocking up and taking full advantage of the 20% off offer. I can’t recommend a moisturizer more highly than Shea Butter. Do any of you use it currently? Send in your comments as to whether you agree that it is the best, or whether you disagree.

Supplements for your Kids

2009-10-21T23:33:00.000-07:00

In the past supplements were mainly thought of as for adults only, however today with kids eating more and more processed food than ever before, it is becoming more common for supplements to be given to children by their parents. A deficiency of vitamins and minerals in children is a serious problem and that is why some people are turning to supplements for an added boost and to ensure appropriate levels are being reached within their kids.

The difficulty can be however that kids don’t want to swallow a pill, particularly one that tastes bad. Baldwins can help though as we have Vitamer’s new ‘Bengal Bites’ for sale. These are the perfect vitamin supplement for kids because not only do they taste great, they are chewy and in a fun tiger shape. The natural berry flavour makes the chewy tablet more like a sweetie than a vitamin supplement.

They contain 100% of the recommended daily allowance of 11 vitamins and minerals needed by children over the age of 4. They are vegetarian and contain only natural ingredients, sweeteners and flavourings. The yellow colour is provided by Turmeric, not an artificial colouring. There are also no preservatives, yeast, gluten, wheat, egg or milk products within the multivitamin.

Furthermore, you are also giving a helping hand to Bengal Tigers when you purchase this product as a portion of each is donated to the extremely worthy cause of preserving the natural habitat of these incredible creatures.

This week at Baldwins we have these fantastic supplements on special offer. You can now boost your child’s immune system for 20% less than you could before!

Do any of you give multivitamins to your kids? Have you tried “Bengal Bites” and if so did you kids like them and enjoy taking them? As always, send in your comments below.

Soothe Away Aches and Pains

2009-10-20T22:27:00.000-07:00

The Synergy range available at Baldwins is an absolute must have. I am so delighted to have discovered this fantastic range of products. The collection is comprised of lotions, balms and creams designed specifically to soothe away all your aches and pains after a hard days work, or even a hard exercise session that has left your muscles feeling rather tender. They are absolutely blissful especially the Body and Bath Oils which when added to your bath or shower give off the most wonderful aroma and really do help you and your muscles relax.

The Synergy range is also not expensive which is another great benefit. All the lotions and potions have been designed in conjunction with the experienced Aromatherapist Nicollanne Turner so you can be sure you are receiving an effective treatment that really works. One test of these products however will leave you in no doubt of their restorative powers.

The ingredients are Nutmeg, Eucalyptus, Marjoram, Rosemary and Black Pepper amongst other items. There are bath oils, body balms, foot lotions, massage oil and even shampoo and conditioner available. Furthermore, this month at Baldwins they are on special offer which means 25% off! I am actually going to stock up for both myself and for others - I know it is only September, but these would make fantastic stocking fillers!

If you want cleansed skin and soothed muscles, I highly recommend seeking out these products. You will not regret it. Have any of you tried the Synergy products from Baldwins? Do you enjoy them as much as I do and do you feel the benefits of using them after a hard day or exercise session? Send in your comments below.

Foods to combat depression and lift fatigue

2009-10-19T21:49:00.000-07:00

How many times have we heard that we have to have a healthy diet, but it really is true. What we ingest has a big effect on our health, well being and even mood. This week I thought it would be helpful to list the 10 things we should make sure we include in our diet, and what foods they are contained within to help improve our mood, fight depression and lift fatigue.

Zinc is vital to help our immune systems function and improve our metabolism and digestion. A zinc deficiency can lead to irritability and even loss of appetite. It can be found in wheat germ, pumpkin seeds, whole grain and high protein foods.

Vitamin B-3 (or niacin) needs to present in ample amounts in our bodies otherwise we are prone to depression, indigestion, irritability and even cold sores. Excessive drinking (of alcohol) can cause a deficiency. Natural sources of this vitamin are found in pork, chicken and oily fish like mackerel and salmon.

Omega-3 fatty acids are the hard hitters when it comes to fighting depression. Studies have shown they even help sufferers of more severe mental illness such as bi-polar disorder. Tuna, salmon, walnuts and canola oil are good sources of omega 3 fatty acids although it can also be taken via a supplement.

Water helps combat fatigue and improve mood. Furthermore it helps your skin and motor function. Drink at least 2 litres a day to really experience the benefits. Caffeine removes water from the body so drink even more water if you are a coffee drinker, or better yet, drink a herbal tea instead of the caffeine laden drink.

Vitamin E boosts our immune system and help fights infections as well as contributing to our overall health. Eat some nuts, seeds and plenty of fruit and vegetables each week to make sure you are getting enough.

Folic Acid levels need to stay high as studies in the past have linked low levels with depression. Sources of Folic Acid can be found in leafy green, beans, peanuts and orange juice.

Calcium helps combat stress as well as anxiety and low levels can result in poor sleep among other problems. Non dairy sources include broccoli and tofu otherwise it is milk, cheese and yoghurt.

Vitamin C is an excellent immune booster. Drink a glass of orange juice each day and include other citrus fruits in your diet like lemons and grapefruit.

Iron deficiency has very negative effects on our health. Low energy levels, fatigue and anemia can be caused. Good sources of iron include beans, beef, peas, nuts and spinach. Liver and beef are also sources however generally we should restrict how much red meat we eat.

Stocking up on these vital nutrients will ensure that you stay feeling well, sleeping better and remain in a positive and upbeat mood. Does anyone have any other tips on combatting depression, irritability and lifting our mood?

Tea and Coffee Substitutes

2009-08-25T01:31:00.000-07:00

Drinking too much tea and coffee is not something that is recommended by doctors and nutritionists as not only does caffeine dehydrate us, it also interrupts our sleep patterns and plays havoc with our bodies. To many of us however, going without that first cup in the morning is not something that can be given up easily.

There are a number of alternatives to these caffeine filled drinks. Coffee substitutes that are designed to taste and smell like coffee are readily available. Lima Organic Yannoh Coffee Substitute is a very good one to try. Another great alternative to coffee is a cup of Cotswold Roasted Dandelion Root Coffee.

Chicory root that has been roasted and dried is another popular coffee alternative, and in fact it has been this root that people have turned to throughout difficult periods in history such as war time when money for coffee, or coffee itself was not available. The root has a strong flavour and after roasting the taste is similar to that of coffee, yet with no caffeine. Furthermore, chicory has many positive health benefits for organs such as the liver and even helps cleanse the blood.

If you want to drink less coffee for medicinal or health reasons, it doesn’t have to be the end of the world as there are some excellent alternatives available that are likely to offer a host of benefits that caffeine laden drinks cannot.

Do any of you drink coffee substitutes? Have you tried roasted chicory root? Send in your comments below.

Help in the battle against hayfever

2009-08-21T04:20:00.000-07:00

Hayfever affects millions of Britons every year with around one in 10 adults being affected. It is caused by an allergy to either tree pollen or grass pollen and is therefore more prevalent in the summer months when pollen counts are higher than in winter.

There are a few precautions you can take to help fight against the itchy eyes and continuos sneezing that hayfever causes which I shall outline below. If I have missed any out or you have a home made remedy that helps, please send them to me!

Rub vaseline inside each nostril.
This will help reduce soreness and to capture pollen before it heads into your nasal passages.
Wear wrap around sunglasses.
Wrap around glasses reduce pollens affecting the eyes, so wear them any time you are outside.
Close windows.
Never sleep with the bedroom window open, now matter how hot it gets! Also keep the car windows closed when you are driving.
Don’t change your clothes in the bedroom.
Taking your clothes off before entering the bedroom will ensure that allergens cannot be transfered to where you sleep.
Wash hair before bed.
Pollen sticks to your hair and will be transfered to your pillow at night, so remove as much as possible with a hair wash before bed.
Hang your washing out mid-morning.
Furthermore, bring it in no later than early evening to avoid bringing into your home more pollen than is necessary.

These are a few top tips for helping combat the nuisance that is hayfever. Of course there are also a variety of anti-histamines that you can take to help too, but if you want to try natural remedies before reaching for the pills and capsules, the ideas above are a good place to start.

Grow your own drugs

2009-08-18T23:33:00.000-07:00

James Wong is a respected ethnobotanist (a scientist who studies how people use plants) and is passionate that people should look at plants, not as a way to decorate a room or garden, but instead as a source of elixirs capable of helping prevent and cure a host of ailments from eczema to sore throats and even insomnia. With a popular book that was accompanied by a television show, his ideas are beginning to catch on.

Both Wong and indeed the World Health Organisation point out that modern day medicines are often derived from plants. Morphine based painkillers are derived from opium found in poppies, Aspirin originally came from sal acetic acid found in willow, meadowsweet and the shrub spirea, and the contraceptive pill began its life once extractions were made from the Mexican wild yam plant.

You don’t need to be very green fingered either, as many of the herbs and plants that work as useful medicines grown in poor environments with low levels of water. Cutting the herbs and plants back is important so as they do not take over the whole garden, so why not put the cuttings to use, instead of just throwing them away?

Another advantage of growing your own drugs is the cost factor. Peppermint tea, made from hot water and peppermint leaves is a far cheaper alternative to over the counter drugs designed to ease suffering from irritable bowel syndrome, indigestion and heartburn. In the book you will find recipes for all common ailments, as well as body scrubs, deodorants, lip balms and you won’t need to go searching for unusual plants or seeds, most of the ingredients will be in your kitchen cupboard.

Have any of you read the book? Perhaps you are already a big fan of growing your own drugs and cook up concoctions at home to help prevent problems or cure sickness. Send in your comments below along with any tips you may have.

Rid yourself of fatigue

2009-07-09T03:49:00.000-07:00

If you are feeling a little less than sparkling at the moment there are a few things you can do to perk yourself up. Fatigue effects millions of Britons a year. With long working hours, families to care for and to-do lists a mile long, it is not surprising that at times we all feel a little, well.....exhausted.

I thought this week I would provide a quick list of the things we can all do to revive ourselves quickly and easily.

Give your diet an overhaul. If you take a very close look at your diet it is likely that you can find areas of improvement. It may be that simply swapping the afternoon biscuits for a handful of grapes will do the trick, or it might be a more thorough change of eating habits is required. Either way, ensuring the majority of your diet is made up of fruit and vegetables will go a long way to cure day long fatigue. Beans, pulses, nuts and seeds in particular provide your body with a good boost of energy. Try some infinity whole foods for a while and see if your fatigue goes away.
Drink herbal teas. Sad it may seem, fizzy drinks and other caffeine filled, sugary beverages need to go if you want to feel at your best at all times. These drinks are loaded with sugar that will rot your teeth and leave you feeling exhausted. Try delicious herbal and fruit teas instead. Green tea in particular is excellent for waking us up.
Remove caffeine altogether. We automatically reach for a cup of coffee when searching for some va va voom, but it in fact has the opposite effect in the long term. It is particularly bad to drink caffeine filled drinks at night as it causes our sleep to be interrupted making us groggy in the morning. Herbal teas like nettle, lemon balm and peppermint are an excellent substitute and will ensure your overall health improves too.
Give up smoking. Smoking causes all sorts of havoc for the body not least of which is poor sleep. If you want to give up smoking but cannot do it on simple will power alone, why don’t you try a hypnosis CD to give you that added helping hand.
Go to bed earlier. This may seem a little obvious, but instead of watching TV until late, why not go to bed a little earlier and take a great book with you? Reading is much more conducive to sleep whereas the TV simply zones you out and keeps you up when you could be in the land of nod.

I can guarantee that if you put all or even some of these ideas into practice you will soon feel revived and back to your old self. To find out how Baldwins products can help, visit out site. If anyone has any other ideas on how it is possible to rid yourself of fatigue, send in your comments below.

Protect yourself in the heat wave

2009-07-06T03:56:00.000-07:00

It so lovely having glorious weather. The parks are filled with people, the paddling pools have all come out and everywhere I look, people are enjoying feeling the sun on their faces. Not wanting to be a killjoy, I just thought I would offer a bit of advice on how you can protect yourself from the dangerous side effects of getting too much sun - the dreaded UV rays can damage the skin, burn it and even cause skin cancer.

Use at least SPF 15 all over your body. As soon as you get up in the morning, coat yourself head to toe in sun cream. Even if you don’t think you’ll be going out in the sun that particular day, it is still possible to get skin damage just from walking to buy your lunch or unloading the car. Just a few minutes is all that the sun and its UV rays needs to cause havoc to your skin.

Use at least SPF 15 lipbalm. The above advice can also be applied to your lips. They burn too and need protection against the sun.
Wear a hat. Ideally one with a wide brim or a type of fishing hat as this offers the most protection shading your eyes, ears, head and neck.
Wear sunglasses. This will help protect your eyes against the ferocious sun. Just remember to give your face a good covering of sun cream or else you will end up with panda eyes!
Do not sit out in the hottest part of the day. By all means we should enjoy the sun, but sitting out and roasting your face and body between the hours of 10 and 4 is really not a good idea. The sun is at its most fierce during this time and can burn the skin quickly.

Who knows how long this heat wave will last, but whilst it does, enjoy it, let it lift your mood and have a nice BBQ with friends. As long as you take sensible precautions, drink plenty of water and keep your sun cream topped up, you will be fully protected and safe. Contact us at G Baldwin & Co, to buy or know more about Sun Screen Lotion.

How to Protect yourself from Swine Flu

2009-05-05T01:17:00.000-07:00

As swine flu rampages across the globe, unsurprisingly people are becoming worried. It is a respiratory infection caused by influenza type A and the new strain that has emerged can be passed relatively easily from person to person.

Whilst facemasks are a protective method being used currently in Mexico and other parts of the world, they only reduce the risk of infection if worn continuously and in the correct way. In the UK, the government has stockpiled a great number for NHS staff but there are currently no plans to distribute them to the general public.

The symptoms of swine flu are similar to the standard flu such as coughing, a sore throat, fever, headache, aches and pains as well as chills and general fatigue. Diarrhoea and vomiting can also occur.

If you have recently travelled to Mexico or are living in a place where cases have been reported it might be wise to consult a doctor, however to minimise the chance of spreading the virus, let the medical professional come to you rather than heading to your local surgery.

The good news is swine flu is treatable with medications such as Tamilflu, and with swift treatment can rid yourself of the virus. A vaccine will not be available for several months however.

Advice includes taking precautions such as covering your mouth when coughing or sneezing with a tissue and then discarding it. Washing hands frequently can also help reduce the risk of infection. If you do feel under the weather stay indoors and contact a medical professional. Children should stay home from school if any symptoms materialise.

Try and give your immune system a boost if you can by eating more fruits and vegetables. It also might even be worthwhile taking some vitamin supplements too to ensure your body is in tip top condition and can more easily fight any possible infection of the virus.

It is important not to panic and remember that there is treatment available that has helped a great number of people so far. Always err on the side of caution and consult a doctor if any of the symptoms occur.

Everyday Aromatherapy

2009-04-14T01:12:00.001-07:00

Aromatherapy is a very effective component of natural and complimentary medicine, with different scents and smells effectively able to alter our moods and help us in a many other ways. Did you know for example that the scent of a rose can prevent headaches and calm us in times of shock and grief?

The great thing about aromatherapy is that you don’t need special equipment to enjoy the benefits of aromatherapy. Adding a few drops of essential oils to a pan of boiling water on the stove or perhaps a few drops just added to your bath are all you need to do to reap the benefits. You don’t need burners or candles at all if you don’t want to, although oil burners are attractive items that can look nice in your house and are extremely popular.

You can experience aromatherapy in regular everyday situations. Often aromatherapy is associated with long and luxurious spa sessions, but this is not in fact the case at all! How about hanging an aromatherapy “air freshener” in your car? Sitting in heavy traffic or experiencing a long journey can really take it out of you, but having something that smells nice in your car can really help keep you calm or keep you awake depending on what essential oil you choose of course.

Washing up can also be an excellent place for some gentle aromatherapy. Just add a few drops of your favourite oil to the water and you get to experience all the benefits of the smells whilst simply washing the dishes!

These are just a few ideas of how aromatherapy can be easily interwoven into our everyday and very busy lives. Have any of you any other suggestions of how to administer aromatherapy in a simple and effective way? As always, send in your comments below.

Swedish Bitters

2009-04-06T01:30:00.000-07:00

The story of Swedish Bitters is a long one beginning in 1541 when a prominent Swiss Physician of the time, Dr. Phillipus Paracelsus produced the original “version” of Swedish Bitters. It was later however in the 18th century that a Swedish Physician called Dr. Claus Samst discovered the elixir and, being impressed with its qualities, compiled a transcript listing the 46 ailments and conditions that he discovered it could help with. It was at this point it became the Swedish Bitters that we think of today.

Maria Treben, a distinguished Austrain herbalist brought the powerful formula to the attention of the world however in her book “Health Through God’s Pharmacy” where she explained in great detail the benefits of the formula on one’s health. It is sometimes referred to as the “long life elixir” and the life of Dr. Claus Samst himself is testament to that. Dr. Samst lived until he was 104, and even then had his life cut short by a nasty fall whilst out horse riding!

There are a great number of other conditions that Swedish Bitters is thought to help, and these range from toothache to reducing morning sickness, to easing indigestion and removing a fever. It is also used sometimes to help reduce scars including acne scars. It is also thought to help reduce earaches, headaches, tongue ulcers, stomach cramps, sore red eyes and even calm eczema.

If anyone has used Swedish Bitters it would be very interesting to hear how and in what ways it has helped your health. There were originally 46 conditions names in the transcript of the 18th century, and it would be excellent to hear if anyone has some real life stories to back up the claims of the prominent physicians and herbalists mentioned above!

Vitamin Supplements

2009-03-26T06:27:00.000-07:00

Research is constantly being carried out on vitamin supplements and offering new insights into the positive effects and advantages of taking them. Even aside from the obvious long term benefits or our bodies receiving adequate vitamins, there are a number of conditions that vitamin supplements can help. Below are a few ways taking vitamins can help us in our everyday lives.

Folic Acid and Vitamin B can ease migraines and headaches.

Research carried out at an Australian university has shown that an increased intake of these vitamins can quell migraine attack on both frequency and severity.

Vitamin D prevents bone fractures

A daily dose of Vitamin D can drastically reduce the chances of bone fractures and breaks in people over 65. A review published in the Archives of Internal Medicine shows that fractures (not involving the spine) are up to 20% less likely if Vitamin D is taken daily.

Vitamin C helps prevent Gout

Gout is a very painful arthritic condition, and the number of cases is increasing. Those with very heavy, rich diets full of red meat are more likely to develop the condition. Research carried out at the University of British Columbia has shown that men who have a higher intake of vitamin C are less likely to develop gout than men who consume very little.

So there are a few ways in which taking vitamin supplements can greatly help us in our daily lives. We have a large selection available on offer at Baldwin’s including our brand new range which we are proud to now have on sale. If you would like further information about our vitamin supplements, please feel free to contact us.

Are there any conditions that you take herbal or vitamin supplements to help with, and what effects do they have? Send in all your comments!

How to use Floral Waters

2009-03-20T07:04:00.000-07:00

Flower waters are made from water that have been infused with flower essences. There are a good number of ways that floral waters can be used that I shall outline below:

1. Cooking - Dishes in the Middle East are often made with an addition of floral water. Sweet dishes such as pastries and puddings often have floral waters such as orange blossom added to them. Rose water is another popular floral water to be added to desserts. It is important however that you make sure you are using a floral water that can be consumed safely. Those that have additives to make them last longer are generally not suitable for consumption and you should read the label for clarity.

2. Skin Care - You can apply floral water directly to your skin which helps keeps it soft, supple and smelling very nice. It can also be used to calm very hot and sensitive skin. Often people use it after taking a bath. With a very mild and subtle smell, floral waters are a perfect natural alternative to a perfume or scent.

3. Relaxation - Lavender in particular is a natural relaxant and aid to sleep. Many people use floral water as a way to unwind after a particularly stressful day or to help them receive a long and peaceful night’s sleep. Drops can be added to your bath or applied directly to your skin for the smell to envelop you and help you relax.

4. Shine to Hair - Give your hair one final rinse with some floral water to give it that extra bit of shine. It will give it a lovely smell too that will last right up until your next wash.

5. Sooth Eyes - If you soak cotton wool in floral water and place them over your eyes you can help reduce puffiness and with continued and regular use you can even remove those dreaded dark circles that we all sometimes suffer from.

Do you use floral waters regularly? If so what is the best way you have used them – got a great skincare secret or dessert recipe, then share them with us!

Why not to eat late at night

2009-03-16T04:43:00.001-07:00

There has been quite a lot of research into whether eating late at night is detrimental to your health, and whilst some scientists and doctors say it makes no difference to your body when you eat, new evidence suggests otherwise.

The Spanish are renowned for eating extremely late at night, often between 10 and 11pm in the summer and they have among the highest life expectancies in the world - it obviously doesn’t do any harm you might say? Well, that’s not quite the whole story because they only eat a very small serving of food at night as they have their big meal at around 2pm which gives them the rest of the day to ‘burn’ it off through general day to day activity.

Eating red meat in particular late at night is not good for us as it is quite difficult for the body to digest and requires a lot of energy to do so. So when we go to bed (which is meant to be a time for the body and mind to totally relax and recover from the day’s activity) our bodies have to go into overtime to digest the food consumed. This can lead to interrupted sleep and leave us feeling lethargic in the morning. Our bodies quite simply aren’t allowed to rest when we follow the pattern of eating very late at night.

If you are one of those however who like to have their largest meal at night, there are some small changes you can make to ensure you don’t suffer any of the consequences. Use vegetables as the bulk of your meal to enable your body to digest the food quickly and easily. Fruit is another good group that the body can digest without too much ‘effort’. Taking a brisk walk after you eat will give your body some help with digestion too and help you get a better night’s sleep.

It is possible to retrain your body into good habits and to stop craving heavy and sugary foods late at night. By bringing your supper time forward by even just a few minutes each night, you will gradually want to eat earlier which your body will thank you for! If you do find yourself hunting around for a late night snack, try drinking a cup of hot water with lemon and honey, or a nice cup of herbal tea. Making small changes here and there will do wonders for your body and your health. Do you find that eating late at night had adverse effects on you? What do you do to combat the snack attacks late at night?

Cleanse your home

2009-03-10T02:39:00.000-07:00

Have you ever walked into a home and just felt calm and relaxed and surrounded by warmth? Many people strive to create a positive and nurturing atmosphere in their home, and it seems the ones that are most successful are those who care not about expensive furnishings but instead about paying close attention to the use of colour and other decoration.

There are plenty of tricks and tips on how to create a home that is full of warmth and positive energy, a few of which I will outline below.

1. Give your home a good scrub

It is important to have a good clean of your home every now and again, sweeping up dust and making sure you get into all the corners. A clean house is important if you want to ensure a pleasant and relaxed atmosphere is created.

2. Use correct colours

Greens and blues are both very calming colours, so use these in rooms you want to be able to unwind in. Reds, oranges and other intense colours are natural stimulants and so are unsuitable for sitting rooms or kids bedrooms.

3. Don’t forget smells

Smells are an important aspect of setting a particular mood in a home. They should be created in as natural way as possible however rather than through a chemical air freshener. An increasingly popular method to give you home a pleasant scent is through burning a smudge stick. These are bundles of herbs used frequently by native Americans in various rituals.

4. Buy plants

Plants not only provide a calming influence on your home, they also oxygenate the air making your environment cleaner and reducing your indoor air pollution.

These are some of the most important aspects to bear in mind when decorating your home if you wish to provide a healthy and positive atmosphere. There are other ideas you can incorporate if you would like to take this idea further - perhaps even having a dabble in the Feng Shui principles?

Who else has some ideas on what makes the ideal atmosphere in a home?

A guide to health boosting tea

2009-02-26T09:17:00.000-08:00

We all know that there a many different varieties of tea, but did you know that many of them have health boosting ingredients that will do wonders for your body?

Digestion
A cup of peppermint tea drunk at the end of a meal will aid digestion, helping the meal you have just eaten make its way through your body with no difficulty at all.

Sleep
A cup of Chamomile tea before bed will ensure you receive a good nights sleep and wake up feeling refreshed.

Nausea
The tea for ridding yourself of nausea is ginger. It can be used to combat morning sickness and travel sickness. Drinking it in this way is more pleasurable than simply popping a capsule.

Immune System
The herb by the name of Echinacea is often mixed with fruit when being made into tea, and this combination provides an excellent boost to your immune system. If you feel a cold coming on invest in a packet to help you overcome it.

Concentration
Ginkgo Biloba tea is a natural concentration aid, helping to focus the mind and improve even memory skills. Got an exam coming up or lots of work to do? Try Ginkgo for the week and see how you get on.

Skin Cleansing
To put the glow back into your skin, drink nettle, lemon balm or red clover tea.

Calming
Feeling anxious, worried or even slightly depressed? Lemon balm tea will help soothe away your stresses and strains and even help battle depression as it contains natural anti-depressant properties.

Headaches
Constant headaches can be very tiresome. If you don’t want to always turn to paracetamol, you could give Rosemary tea a trial. It can taste quite bitter though and if the taste is not quite for you, try mixing in a teaspoon of honey.

If any of you have tried any of these teas and would like to tell us how they helped you, send in your comments. Are there any teas that I have missed off the list?

Valentine's Day

2009-02-23T06:00:00.000-08:00

Valentines day has just been and gone and this year, and although it is quite a commercial day, it is still nice to acknowledge it I think with a small token or gift of some sort. My favourite presents for Valentine’s Day are undoubtedly bath accessories or some delicious smelling creams or lotions. Chocolates and flowers are also nice, but they lack the imagination I feel, plus the chocolate goes in a flash and the flowers don’t take long before they start to wilt and die.

Lotions and potions not only make you feel good but they last for a long time. I am finding too that in this cold weather I need larger daily amounts of moisturizer to stop my skin from drying out due to the harsh weather conditions we are all suffering from at the moment. My current moisturizers of choice are Laughing Bird Neroli Face Cream for my face and the Laughing Bird Shea Body Cream which are both excellent creams for keeping your skin looking good. They also smell fantastic which is a bonus. I am suffering particularly from chapped lips at the moment I think caused by this dreadful weather so I’m using a lot of lip balm each day to keep them soft.

I would like to know what all your ideal valentines presents would be - maybe you received something extra special this year, or maybe your present was forgotten about! (This has happened to me a few times!) Send in your comments here and tell us what you did or did not receive this year and what you would have really like to have received!

How Nuts Can Aid Weight Loss

2009-02-13T03:56:00.000-08:00

I was told as a child that 7 peanuts contain the same amount of fat as that of a roast dinner! Now as an adult, I’m not sure that fact is accurate, however it is true that there is a lot of fat and calories found in nuts. Believe it or not though, nuts and seeds play an important role in the health of out bodies and can even help us lose weight.

The reason that they are so good for us is that they contain healthy fat, not artery clogging saturated fat. In a similar way to avocados, they provide the body with the unsaturated fat that it needs to run at optimum performance. Anything eaten in excess however will cause weight gain, and nuts are no exception, but when eaten in moderation they are an excellent source of protein, fibre and minerals including magnesium and copper. Almonds in particular are an excellent source of vitamins and minerals and research has shown they hold tremendous ‘super powers’ for the body by staving off illness and disease.

It is important that the nuts consumed are in their natural form however. Salted or dry roasted or any other treated form of nut should be avoided as the processes used in producing them include the addition of unhealthy saturated fat and salt, both of which are bad for our health and our bodies.

At Baldwin’s we supply a range of organic nuts and seeds guaranteed to give your body a boost and help it stay healthy. The range of infinity foods we supply have even been certified by the soil association. They are the perfect crisp alternative, both satisfying and tasty to eat. Why don’t you give them a try for a few weeks and see how you feel. Whoever told me that they were as fattening as a roast dinner was off base - has anyone else ever believed something that was completely false!?

Snow

2009-02-13T03:48:00.000-08:00

The snow has caused enormous disruption all over the UK. The whole country seems to have ground to a halt with thousands of people unable to leave their homes. Although snow does cause great disruption, there is nothing quite like waking up to a fresh blanket. I love the peacefulness of snow, and seeing plants and shrubs weighted down by thick layers.

Snow offers the perfect excuse to just enjoy yourself at home. My advice is to grab as many supplies as possible from the nearest shops and just shut the door to the outside world. The only exception should be to wrap yourself up warm and actually get out into a thick field of snow (or your garden) to build snowmen, make snow angels and have huge snowball fights.

Thick snow is particularly magical for children. Many schools have shut and children are relishing the days off. It’s great fun for them to head out into the snow and enjoy it. If you have a toboggan then grab it and head on out. If you don’t have one then a tray can work as an effective substitute. Waterproof boots and plenty of clothes are essential for everybody though. Some recent research has shown that there may be some scientific truth in wrapping up to prevent a cold. It seems that the virus that causes a cold lies dormant within our bodies, but when we are exposed to cold and wet conditions, the virus grows stronger and brings an onslaught of cold symptoms.

If you do find yourself snuffling over the next week or so, try having lots of steamy baths with some drops of essential oils and drink plenty of hot fluids. That should help stave off the worst symptoms. How do you plan on spending your time during this unexpected break? Send in your thoughts and comments on the best ways to enjoy the snow.

Five ways to rejuvenate your skin

2009-02-05T10:08:00.000-08:00

The effects of the the sun, wind, pollution and smoke can often leave our skin looking a little dull. I have put together my top tips for making your skin ‘glow’.

1. Discover your skin type

So often people use the wrong type of products for their skin. If you have oily skin, you do not want to use the same moisturizer that someone with dry skin uses as it will exacerbate the oiliness and maybe even lead to outbreaks. Consult a dermatologist if you can to try to find out if you have dry, oily or combination skin.

2. Cleanse your face twice a day

Using a cleanser that suits your skin type, apply all over your face and wipe clean with a flannel face cloth soaked in warm water. If you do this in the morning and evening, your skin will instantly start to look better. No more soap and water, as soap dries out the skin and is too harsh for it.

3. Exfoliate twice a week

You only need to exfoliate twice a week, but it is an important part of your beauty routine. After cleansing, rub onto your face gently, leave for a minute, and remove with a damp face cloth. This will remove dead skin cells and help bring some life to your skin.

4. Moisturize every day

Moisturizing is essential for your skin. It stops it drying out and helps fight the onslaught of wrinkles as you get older. Invest in a decent moisturizer and apply generously to your face at least once a day. This should be done after cleansing and exfoliating. Try and avoid creams that have fragrances as these can contain chemicals that may be too harsh for your skin.

5. Wear sun cream, even if it is cloudy

This is my secret weapon! If you wear sun cream every time you go outside, your face will be protected from all the harmful UV rays that come from the sun. They can still penetrate even on a cloudy day. Use a cream with a high SPF factor to get the most benefit. It may seem a little over the top to wear sun cream in winter, but you will thank me for it when you are older as your skin will be smooth and clear.

In no time at all people will be complementing you and noticing your young looking skin. Has anyone got any other secret tips they use for keeping their skin soft and supple?

Christmas Aromatherapy

2008-12-15T04:26:00.000-08:00

Who can believe it is that time of year again?! It seems to come around so quickly. I do love christmas, I find preparing for it great fun, buying a tree and even making a few decorations. I like to feel as christmassy as possible from December 1st onwards and I have found one good way of achieving this is through the burning of some delicious aromatherapy oils around my home.This is not only a fantastic way of getting into the christmas mood, but is also relaxing and provides some great health benefits along the way.

Aromatherapy candles are also a nice way to get some christmas spirit into your house. Try our Yuletide Fruit and Spice candle for a really christmassy feel.

At Baldwin’s we have a whole selection of oils, candles and more. We even supply aromatherapy roll ons which are great smelling and are good for the skin. Some particularly festive ingredients are orange and cinnamon. I can just smell them now thinking about them.

Aromatherapy can bring more relief from christmas stress in that it makes for fantastic gifts for your friends and family.

At Baldwins we've designed aromatherapy box sets that are perfect for the complete beginner or for the more experienced aromatherapists out there. The wooden box is hand-crafted and not only looks attractive but acts as a good storage facility for all the oils.

Indulge yourself and your loved ones this christmas with some form of aromatherapy: Whether this is via oils and a burner or from lighting a few candles, the perfect Christmas recipe is a glass of mulled wine, some delicious aromatherapy oils, Christmas carols and an evening wrapping presents.

Hopi Ear Candles

2008-09-19T08:47:00.000-07:00

I was asked just recently about Hopi ear candles and as they are such a wonderful natural remedy, I thought I would mention them today as so many of us could benefit from them from time to time. The other name for Hopi Ear Candling is Thermo Auricular Therapy, and it is a viable treatment for many conditions of the ear, nose and throat area. The way it works is really quite simple. The candles, once lit, cause convectional air flow towards the inner chamber of the ear. This causes a suction effect which serves to massage the eardrum and auditory canal. When the candle is placed in the ear it forms a seal with enables ear wax and other impurities to be drawn out. The interesting name Hopi I am told comes from the Hopi Indians from Arizona. They used the candles in their culture to clear negative energies from their head and their aura.

Here at Baldwin’s we stock of course the very best, and the very best in this case means the only EU standard candle available. With full instructions, a safety filter and a line to show when the candle must cease to be burned, they are safe and easy to use. They are made from linen, pure beeswax, honey extract and essential oil of St John’s wort.

Hopi candles can be used in the battle against sore throats, hay fever, headaches (even migraines) catarrh, asthma and sinusitis to name a few. They cannot treat serious lingering ear conditions but are definitely a natural and enjoyable way to massage the ears and enjoy a host of benefits as described above.

If anyone has any further information about Hopi ear candles then, please post here as we always enjoy hearing from our valued customers.

Travel Plans?

2008-09-12T01:26:00.000-07:00

The rain never seems to end! This ‘summer’ has been a total wash out and like many of you I find myself dreaming of far off places, sunny climates and the feel of sun on my face. With that in mind, I thought that this week I would turn my focus to travel. At Baldwin’s we are often asked questions relating to health and well-being whilst traveling, and so I thought I’d share some wisdom with you here and try and answer some of our most frequently asked questions.

Jet-lag is a common problem for the long haulers out there. Business trips are the real killer for this, as there simply isn’t time to get over it slowly and workers need to be at their best the moment they step off the plane. I recommend Australian Bush Combination Drops to help overcome jet lag as it refreshes and restores balance thus having a really positive effect. They should be used throughout the flight to leave you feeling brighter and ready for the Boardroom.

Another common complaint from our customers is that air travel causes break outs. This is not what you want when you’re going on holiday! I can tell you now that break outs are common due to the stale air within the aeroplane cabin that is continually pumped round and round. Our Aubrey Organics Travel A Go-Go range is especially suitable for problem or blemish-prone complexions. Made from 100% natural ingredients, the kit contains a facial cleanser with calming witch hazel, a facial astringent with organic camomile and calendula flowers, a balancing moisturiser containing aloe vera and balm mint as well as a sea clay face mask to be used as an instant ‘pick me up’ for your skin. The small bottles ensure check-in security is a breeze too!

I am often asked for advice and suggestions of products that help with travel sickness. The most effective cure is ginger, interestingly. Women in China are known to use it to alleviate morning sickness during pregnancy. The simplest way to take ginger is via capsules. At Baldwin’s we have Bio-Health capsules that are made with a pure powdered form of the ginger root. They will help with sickness whether caused by flying, car travel or sailing.

I hope that these hints are helpful. Of course our staff at Baldwin’s are always on hand for advice and information. I will return to the idea of travel at a later date, but for now I have endeavored to answer the most frequently asked questions on this subject.

Can Self-Hypnosis Help You?

2008-09-11T01:19:00.000-07:00

The idea that one can hypnotize oneself as a means to change a certain type of behavior or achieve a certain goal has been gaining momentum in recent times. By sending positive affirmations to the subconscious brain, so the theory goes, we start to genuinely believe them and live more in accordance with them.

It has been touted as a wonder cure from everything from weight loss to pain management, a way to boost self-confidence to removing a fear of flying! In today’s modern world there are a plethora of self-help resources available and if everything else has failed, why not give it a try? I think that all too often people shy away from hypnotherapy, especially self-hypnosis by labeling it as pure and simple ‘quackery.’ But, there is no mystical or spiritual power behind hypnosis. It is actually based on a very simple concept. By relaxing our bodies and minds to the point where we are more receptive and open to suggestions, we can then plant positive feelings and affirmations through repetition, guided imagery, visualization and suggestion. Simple, but extremely powerful.

Here at Baldwin’s we supply “Here to Listen” audio CDs produced by Sharon Shinwell. Let me tell you a little more about Sharon. Sharon is a qualified Counsellor and Hypno-Psychotherapist, holding a UK Diploma from the National College of Hypnosis and Psychotherapy. She has had a full career working with the Social Services Family Support Team, a Local Education authority, Victim Support and for General Practitioners. She has also received extensive training by the Samaritan Organization. Additionally, she is also a published writer, co-writing “Ride with Confidence.” The Group Therapy qualification that Sharon holds has enabled her to work with the NHS on their smoking cessation programs. Yet further still, she is trained in Hypno-Chemo Psychotherapy which provides support to terminally ill patients and their families.

Many hundreds of people have received help from Sharon who can help with work related issues, life coaching and casework supervision. So you can see, Sharon knows her stuff. Through her collection of CDs, you too can now benefit from her years of experience and training. We stock a large range of CDs such as controlling your anger, alcohol, weight, insomnia, improving confidence and overcoming flying and driving nerves. So whatever the area of your life that you could do with a little help in, our CDs (or I should say, Sharon’s CDs!) might be just the thing.

So, now you know the secret of hypnotherapy! A very powerful method indeed for making changes in your life, our range of CDs by Sharon Shinwell are among the very best available. It is an inexpensive way to harness your potential and push you in the direction you want to go. So why not give it a try, and don’t forget to tell us how you get on!

Dead Sea Salt Products

2008-09-09T06:23:00.000-07:00

Studies over the years have shown that the minerals that are found in the dead sea are very beneficial for our bodies and skin. There have been links between the minerals and skin tissue healing, curing allergies and dermatological conditions as well as aiding relaxation and combatting internal toxins.

A pretty impressive list, it’s of little wonder that the minerals have been bottled and can be bought right here at Baldwin’s.

Since ancient times the healing properties of the Dead Sea have been known. Evidence of bath houses built on the banks where the ancient Romans and Jews went to utilize the water and mud have been discovered. It is thought that Cleopatra herself sought the power of the water to stem the tide of aging. Who are we to argue with thousands of years of wisdom and practice?

At Baldwin’s we supply a range of Spa Magik products including Dead Sea Bath Salts, Mild Exfoliant and a Dead Sea Rich Moisturizer. In the absence of being able to pop over to the Syrian-African Rift Valley found within the Jordan Valley, this is definitely the next best thing. It is especially good for those with skin allergies. The effects of psoriasis, eczema and various rashes have all been known to be alleviated after coming in contact with Dead Sea minerals. immersed in the water at the Dead Sea. There is also evidence of general improved outer skin appearance and increased elasticity. Maybe Cleopatra had a point.

The minerals of the Dead Sea have also been credited with helping to heal wounds, eradicating dandruff and dermatitis, reducing arthritic, bone and joint pain and even combatting fatigue and insomnia. It is also thought that the minerals can help blood circulation, metabolism and encourage a more relaxed nervous system. Indeed, many tout the the positive effects that can be harnessed from contact with the minerals of the Dead Sea as ‘magical.’

Our range at Baldwin’s is extremely reasonably priced, so why not dip your toe into the Dead Sea and see what happens? Why not transform your bath into a saline lake for the evening with Dead Sea bath salts, and immerse yourself in its waters. We’d love to hear if you experience any ‘magical’ effects. We encourage all our customers to share their stories here so that everyone can enjoy them and learn from them.

Copper Bracelets - Fashion of Function?

2008-08-26T08:57:00.000-07:00

Here at Baldwin’s we want to hear from you, our loyal customers as to your experiences with copper bracelets. We know that copper bracelets provide pain relief for a variety of arthritic conditions and believe them to be a valuable natural way to relieve the unending pain of arthritic joints. The benefits of copper bracelets are a controversial subject, with as many people touting the benefits as those who rubbish them.

We want to put the argument to bed once and for all by hearing your views and opinions. So I ask you all reading this to send in your comments on copper bracelets. Do they provide pain relief, or are they simply a waste of time?

I am going to now provide a little background on copper bracelets which I think is important. Copper bracelets for arthritis pain relief is essentially an old folk remedy. It is believed that the copper is absorbed by the skin and serves to relieve joint pain that is present. Animal studies that have been carried out suggest that oral copper supplements reduce the development and progression of arthritis even, and many do use copper supplements as a preventative measure to ward off the threat of arthritis.

It is possible that sweat can interfere with how well the bracelets work, which could be a reason for mixed reports that have been received by people wearing copper bracelets to combat joint pain. The mixed reports have led to the controversy surrounding the subject. Some additional clinical testing that has been carried out in the past pointed to ionized bracelets (such as those of a Balance Bracelet) being nor more effective at relieving joint and muscular pain than those of a non-ionized (placebo) bracelet.

If the bracelets are an effective pain killer, then there is no doubt that copper bracelets are a fantastic alternative to pumping your body full of chemicals and drugs to combat the pain, but with the differing reports and studies, we want to hear from you. Does the copper combat muscular and joint pain? Perhaps you have tried copper oral supplements in an attempt to stave off arthritic pain. Please tell us what you have discovered and if you would recommend this to all.

At Baldwin’s we have in stock a line in copper bracelets. Perhaps you would like to carry out a test for yourself? Do you suffer from joint or muscular pain? Have you tried everything and are fed up of the endless pain and suffering? This could be an avenue to explore. Please let us know how you get on and tell us about your experiences afterwards here! All comments welcome.

Organic Food

2008-08-22T03:32:00.001-07:00

Organic food is grown without the use of pesticides, artificial fertilizers, human waste, sewage sludge, ionizing radiation or additives. Yuck! Who would want to eat food that contains even one of the items in that list, let alone all.

With nasties such as these lurking amongst your tomatoes, is it little wonder that since the early 1990’s, the organic food industry has seen growth rates of around 20% per year. A report by the UK’s Soil Association shows that $3.7 billion was spent on organic produce in 2006 which was a 20% growth from the year before. It now accounts for 1-2% of all food sold worldwide which is a figure that is set to continue.

Traditionally, organic food has been grown on small family run farms which perhaps explains its scarcity. With more and more people discovering the dangers and problems that can occur when our food is exposed to chemical and man-made substances, the demand has increased and even the supermarkets now carry a range of organic produce. Studies that have been carried out in the past have provided possible links between the use of pesticides in our food and cancer, obesity, Alzheimer's and some birth defects.

Here at Baldwin’s we carry the very best organic food and produce, Infinity food. With Infinity food, you can be sure you are ingesting only 100% natural food, with not a pesticide or genetically modified crop in sight.

The levels of nutrients contained within organic food are also allegedly much higher, with up to 50% more vitamins and minerals than in intensively reared produce. Logic dictates that a crop that has been sprayed extensively with a man-made substance to prevent insects or make it grow faster will not be as rich in vitamins and minerals than a crop that has been left to grow in a natural way with simple good old fashioned water and sunshine!

Why don’t you try something from our range of infinity food, and see if you don’t notice the difference. Don’t forget to come back here and tell us what you think. Can you notice the difference between an organic apple and a non-organic apple? Many people, once they’ve tried organic food cannot go back due to the sheer increase in quality and taste they experience. We want to know if this has happened to you!

Tired? Stressed? Overworked?

2008-08-08T06:48:00.000-07:00

Did you know that us Britons work the longest work week out of all our European neighbors? Our average week is 43.4 hours long compared to the European average of 40.3 hours. Here in the UK we also get a rough deal with our holidays by receiving on average a meagre 20 days per year, a full 16 less than most Mediterranean countries.

Well, here at Baldwin’s we can’t get the hours down for you, but we can ease the tension and stress associated with being overworked. Whether it’s more energy you need to tackle your 44 hour week, or the ability to relax and unwind since you are short changed by your holiday time, we can offer a variety of effective methods.

Our herbal capsule range is extensive and covers all of the most popular herbs. They are supplied in vegetable capsules which makes them very easy to take. We have 3 herbal capsule ranges. Our Bio-Health range is totally additive free and the capsules are made from powdered dried fresh herbs which are encapsulated under the strictest quality control. The Bio-Health range includes the full A to Z range of bio-health products and bio-health licensed medicines.

We also have a supply of Pukka herbal products which have been formulated by Ayurveduc Practitioner Sebastian Pole to promote your overall health. The range of Pukka products include Arjuna Heart 90 Capsules, Brahmi Plus 90 Capsules, Guggul Plus 90 Capsules, Shatavari 90 Capsules and Trikatu 90 Capsules. The third and final range of herbal capsules we supply are those of Rio Health Direct who have specialised in the herbs of the Amazon Rainforest for over 15 years. The Amazon Rainforest holds the greatest concentration of plant species found anywhere on the planet and Baldwin’s can supply the full range of Rio Trading products direct to you.

Natural and herbal supplements are becoming more and more popular throughout the nation as our lives become busier and more high pressured. We are proud of the range of natural supplements we supply as they are of the highest quality and made with care and expertise. We want to hear from you if you have reaped the benefits of herbal supplements. Perhaps you were skeptical at first but were soon bowled over by the positive effects you received; We want to hear your views.

Understanding Aromatherapy

2008-08-01T06:13:00.000-07:00

Who doesn’t dream of gentle aromatherapy massages and facials. Having your skin nourished and revitalized whilst your senses are brought to life with the delicious smells and fragrances of the aromatherapy oils. I’m feeling more relaxed just thinking about it.

Aromatherapy is the use of volatile plant oils, including essential oils in order to gain both psychological and physical well-being. The aroma of the natural essential oils stimulate the brain to trigger a reaction, and when inhaled into the lungs, the naturally occurring chemicals within the oils supply therapeutic benefit. A good example is the inhalation of eucalyptus essential oil as a way of easing congestion.

Essential oils when rubbed into the skin and absorbed into the bloodstream additionally aid health, beauty and even hygiene conditions. Their powerful essence however means they must first be diluted in a substance such as a form of cold pressed vegetable oil (which is also known as carrier oil).

Baldwin’s is the perfect place to begin down the aromatherapy road. As a first time user, not only can we advise you on the specific oils required for any particular purpose, but we can also provide the burners, or candles or any other item of equipment that you would need to enjoy the benefits of aromatherapy. For those of you out there however who wish to develop a deeper understanding of the ancient art of healing and relaxation, we can help you learn how to make your own products and control the ingredients in your own personal aromatherapy products. To be able to reap the rewards and benefits of aromatherapy and the learn the secrets for yourself to enjoy throughout your life is a gift.

Here at Baldwin’s, not only can you take advantage of our many years of experience and knowledge by requesting advice and guidance, but we also have a wide range of books and information available on aromatherapy. Our collection is extensive and we have books that cover aromatherapy for your children, for the home, for stress management as well as blending guides and more. In addition, we also have a number of aromatherapy posters and reflexology charts for quick reference. We are always adding to our collection, but if there is a particular book you would like that we do not have, we will quite happily order it for you.

If you’ve never experienced the deep relaxation and calm that can be achieved through aromatherapy, why don’t you contact us now, or alternatively if you have experienced this and would like to know more, we are happy to help. Leave your comments here and tell us about your experiences of aromatherapy. Have you reaped the benefits over the years, or do you find there is nothing noticeable about the effects other than a nice smell!?

Bach Flower Remedies

2008-08-01T05:34:00.000-07:00

At Baldwin’s we are a firm believer in the benefits of the very special Bach flower essences. Edward Bach was a medical doctor, bacteriologist, and homoeopathic physician who dedicated his life to discovering a system of healing to go beyond the diagnosis and treatment of physical symptoms to address the emotional and mental roots of disease. A real pioneer in this field, it was the sight of dewdrops glistening on flower petals that inspired him with the idea that the heat of the sun, acting through the dew, must draw out the healing essence of each flower. Through the development of a method for extracting this essence and a sprinkle of self-experimentation, he isolated flowers which addressed a broad range of psychological conditions. These became known as the Bach Flower Essences.

Here at Baldwin’s our largest range of flower remedies we hold are those of Dr Edward Bach and include the popular rescue remedy and remedy night drops. What is so interesting about the remedies is that they don’t treat the physical complaints directly but instead help by treating the negative emotional states that provoke or worsen the problem in the first place. At Baldwin’s we encourage our customers seeking out a remedy to try and think about their current emotional state and specific personality and character traits as a means to select the most appropriate remedies. The range of ailments that Bach flower remedies can help is broad and covers physical pain and illnesses to emotional problems and depression.

An alternative therapy to say the least, there are often debates raging about homeopathy and other forms of alternative therapies. There are many who say that alternative therapies merely induce positive effects by acting as a placebo and that the treatments themselves do nothing to alleviate any physical medical condition. Others however who have turned to homeopathy and other alternative therapies in the past have talked of tremendous benefits and outcomes and would always turn first to this as a form of treatment for an ailment before resorting to chemical medication.

It is likely that discussions and debates will continue in the future regarding alternative therapies. Let us know what you think about this subject. Have you ever undergone any alternative therapies and if so, what results did you see? Were they positive or negative and would you try out the same therapy again?

Herbal Teas are King

2008-07-15T08:10:00.000-07:00

Here at Baldwin’s we think the human body should be treated with respect it deserves. Of course drinking in moderation, eating well and choosing walking over jumping in the car are vital to this cause, but there is one area that we feel is often overlooked. It seems harmless enough, but as people often have up to a 6 a day habit, caffeine no longer become harmless.

We are thrilled to be able to offer an healthy alternative, we think of them a little bit like the nicotine patches for smokers! Our herbal tea bags are natural and good for you and the smell is just heavenly.

Enjoy working your way through our selection, it will take you a while! Each week endeavour to seek out a new flavour. A particular favourite of ours is Dr Stuarts Apple And Ginger Tea, and despite initial reservations, we must say our Wild Fennel Tea Bags are particularly toothsome too!

So we urge all those heavy coffee drinkers out there to throw down those instant granules, and stock up on delicious organic herbal teas. There are even particular flavours that are good for all your internal organs and digestion. Mint tea for example can do wonders for the digestive tract. We are always interested in hearing feedback though. Can anyone recommend other flavours to try? Have you found common ailments magically disappear?

The Big Chill

2008-07-03T08:01:00.000-07:00

No, I’m not referring to winter, but to the need to chill out and wind down. Is it just me, or is it getting more and more difficult to find time to simply relax and switch off?

I’m one of those people who always remembers something I ought to be doing, so as soon as I sit down a huge list entitled ‘items you should have done three days ago’ pops into my head...hopeless when all I want is to chill for a few moments. What I really need is something to take my mind off my ‘action list’ (and to stop being such a control freak, but that’s another matter altogether!).

And that’s where Baldwins aromatherapy products come into their own. Not only do they give me the chance to pamper myself, but the intoxicating perfumes have a way of meandering through my olfactory system into my brain and giving my action list a good talking to! No, I’ve no idea how it works – it just does.

The essential oils in aromatherapy are so relaxing that it’s pretty near impossible not to fall under their spell. If you’ve used aromatherapy to help you relax, deal with particular periods of stress in your life, or even illness – tell us your story.

Lovely Lavender

2008-06-06T06:51:00.000-07:00

Have you ever walked past rows of lavender on a summer’s day? If so, you’ll remember the scent that drifted up as you brushed past the lavender stalks and the hum of the bees as they collected the pollen. There’s something very special about lavender but is that just because of its lovely fragrance or is there something else going on here?

Baldwins sell more products scented with lavender than anything else. That includes bath oils, soaps, essential oils, aromatherapy products, hand creams, body creams, and the list goes on. Lavender simply doesn’t lose its popularity regardless of what changes around it.

Perhaps one of the reasons is its ability to soothe and calm. Lavender is used as an aid to sleep; many people have lavender pillows on their beds and studies have shown that it actually does help people fall asleep and stay asleep for longer. But there’s more to this humble looking plant than meets the eye. Lavender contains ingredients known as esters, ketones and linalool, which between them help reduce inflammation, fight infection, kill bacteria, relieve pain, heal burns and wounds, and that’s in addition to its sleep enhancing qualities. Wow – quite a list! No wonder it stays at the top of the charts. To try it out, go to Baldwin’s section on lavender where you’ll find a host of products to choose from.

Personally, I love lavender because of its quintessential Englishness that reminds me of lazy sunny days. Isn’t that a good enough reason?

What do you think of lavender? Does it bring back memories, do you love it or do you loathe it? Get in touch with the Baldwins blog and tell all.

Home Cooking

2008-05-12T04:23:00.001-07:00

Have you seen the new Delia Smith cookery programme on TV? I can’t help thinking that her new style of cookery – which consists largely of opening tins and the door of the freezer – is going to put her in the firing line of some other celebrity chefs on our screens. But I say ‘well done Delia’…real cooking for real people who don’t have three days to soak lentils or stuff quail.

On the cookery theme, here’s a couple of ideas you might like to try out in your own home. You can cook in the kitchen if you must, but the bathroom will be even better. The reason for the unconventional cooking environment is that these are aromatherapy recipes fresh from herbalist, Baldwin & Co. Cook up your own gorgeous scented products for bath time pampering or give them away as special personalised gifts. Either way, you’re in for a treat, so here goes.

1. Massage Magic

Pop down to Baldwins and pick up some massage oil, or if you can’t get to the shop, order online. You can either buy the light or the rich version; both contain goodies like vitamin E and evening primrose oil. Choose two or three essential oils to fragrance your base oil. How about Ylang Ylang and Mandarin for a sensual exotic perfume. Simply mix three or four drops of each into 50ml of your base massage oil. Use a jug for mixing and then pour into your final container.

2. Shower Time Wake Up

This recipe is perfect for your morning shower. To 50ml of Baldwins base shower gel add the following essential oils: 8 drops of lavender, 4 drops of peppermint and 2 drops of lime. Mix well, use under a running shower and wait for the ZING!

If you have a favourite recipe for essential oils that you absolutely love (and are generous enough to share with us), then get in touch. We’ll feature some of your ideas on this page over the coming months.

Getting the Best

2008-04-25T06:31:00.000-07:00

It’s not difficult to find lovely fragrances in the world around us. Go out on a spring day and breathe in the fresh smell of newly mown grass, walk in a pine forest with its sharp crisp scent, or bend down to a nose-full of Turkish delight from an old fashioned rose in full bloom.

Essential oils capture those aromas in a way that few other products can. This is because they come directly from the plants, herbs, spices and other plant materials that produce them. Baldwins range of essential oils is amongst the highest quality and largest variety that you’ll find anywhere, and prices are excellent because of Baldwins’ ability to buy in bulk. Quality oils are sourced from all over the world, but how do they come to us as an oil when they often start life as a plant?

The answer is that the perfume is extracted through one of three processes: steam distillation, crushing (known as expression), or by solvents. What remains is the pure scent for us to mix and use as we want.

Although it’s great to pick up our favourite perfume from the cosmetics counter, it’s deeply satisfying to create a perfume for yourself because it will be unique to you and you can be sure no one else will be wearing it. Essential oils give us the means to do this. Making perfume is easy and at Baldwins’ prices, which start at just £2.25, it’s very affordable. Simply mix your choice of essential oils with a base oil (don’t use them in undiluted form) and your perfume will be ready.

Drop a line to the Baldwins blog to tell us about your favourite scents. We’d love to hear about any comments you’ve had on your home made perfumes too.

Choosing & Using

2008-04-25T06:12:00.001-07:00

I love perfume. If it were up to me the shops would send fragrance through their air vents out on to the pavement and the smell of petrol would be overpowered by jasmine! Seems a bit far fetched? Well, I did recently stay in a hotel where the scent of lilies was omnipresent in the football pitch sized foyer, and there was no way that all that fragrance was coming from a handful of cut flowers. Yes, of course the hotel was in America…silly question!

Essential oils are a great way to fragrance your own world. Baldwins stock a vast variety that can be used for all sorts of things from bath products to home scents, but the problem is…how do you choose? Here’s a short guide, which despite being far from complete might give you some ideas to get you started on the road to perfumed bliss!

Stimulating Scent

Perfume has a very real effect on our moods. Sometimes we need relaxation, other times we crave revitalisation. If the latter is what’s required right now, try the following Baldwins essential oils: lemongrass, black pepper, basil, lime, pepermint or ginger.

Put Your Feet Up Perfumes

If stress is the name of the game then you need fragrances to help you unwind. Baldwins stock many that are well known for their de-stressing properties. Try any, or a mix, of these essential oils: lavender, rosewood, geranium, ylang ylang or sandalwood.

Sensuous Seduction

For something exquisitely feminine and floral, try one or more of these essential oils from Baldwins huge range: rose turkish, jasmine or vetivert. If you’re in generous mood or you’re lottery numbers have come up treat yourself to the deeply lovely, but rather expensive, carnation.

Remember not to put essential oils directly on your skin but dilute them in a base oil first. We’d love to hear about your own favourite oils and how you use them, so why not get in touch?