Lavishly Natural`s Hair Challenge Recipe Guide
Transcription
Lavishly Natural`s Hair Challenge Recipe Guide
LAVISHLY NATURAL’S HAIR CHALLENGE RECIPE GUIDE Erica K. King Lavishly Natural: 21 Hair Challenge Recipe Guide Copyright © 2015 by Erica K. King, PhD All Rights Reserved. All rights reserved. No part of this publication my be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means, including photocopying, recording, or other electronic or mechanical methods, without the prior written permission of the publisher, except in the case of brief quotations embodied in critical reviews and certain other noncommercial uses permitted by copyright law. ii TABLE OF CONTENTS Introduction vi Oils, Butters, & Smoothies 7 Coconut Shea Butter 8 Mega Hair Growth Serum 11 Velvet | DIY Cocoa Shea Butter 16 Velvet Instructions 17 Calendula Oil 19 Orange Sandalwood Twist Butter 22 Hair Oil Cocktail 25 Whipped Apricot Shea Butter 27 Homemade Vanilla Oil 29 Puff Butter 32 Sweet Almond Massage Oil 35 Vanilla Mint Hair & Body Oil 37 iii Organic Hair Butter 42 Organic Hibiscus Oil 45 DIY Conditioning Hair Smoothie 47 Cleansing Clays & Deep Conditioners! ! ! ! ! 51 Fenugreek Smoothie 52 Hair Milk 56 Homemade Bentonite Clay Wash 61 Amla & Hibiscus Curl Defining Deep Conditioner 63 Crown Detox 67 Wheatgrass & Grapefruit Conditioning Clay Wash 68 Chocolate 71 Banana Deep Conditioning Detangler 74 Green Juice Clay Cleanser | Video Hair Teas & Tonics! ! ixxvi ! ! ! ! 77 Rose Sandalwood Replenishing Hair Tonic 78 Hibiscus Hair Tea 82 Dandelion & Hibiscus Conditioning Hair Tea 86 iv Slippery Marshmallow Detangling Conditioner 88 Dandelion Hair Tea 91 Cactus Fenugreek Conditioner 94 Lavishly Natural’s Luscious Hair Tea 97 INTRODUCTION Hello Goddess! This is the Official Recipe Guide for the Lavishly Natural 90-Day Winter Hair Challenge. These recipes are collected from previous challenges, and from posts on LavishlyNatural.com. Each recipe has a story. It was created to fill a need within my family, it was necessary to help my hair get through a tough spell, or it was something I just wanted to make, and share with a good friend -You! Each recipe has been lovingly tested by the Lavishly Natural Community. If you’re not already receiving Lavishly Natural Updates -sign up now! New recipes are added to the site each week. This book is designed for you to have simple recipes that work. May each recipe in this Guide bring you as much joy as they have for me. As always, let me know how they work for you! vi CHAPTER 2 OILS, BUTTERS & SMOOTHIES 3 tablespoons raw, unrefined shea butter 2 tablespoons unrefined, organic coconut oil COCONUT SHEA BUTTER INSTRUCTIONS 1. Stir coconut oil into your shea butter until well blended. 2. If your butters and oils are more firm, add to your blender or mixing bowl and whip the ingredients. 3. Makes a little under 4oz.2. If your butters and oils are more firm, add to your blender or mixing bowl and whip the ingredients. Optional: Add essential oils 4. Makes a little under 4oz. 8 Coconut Shea Butter - stirred, not whipped I've been simplifying my natural beauty regime over the past few weeks to make room for my new clients (Lavish is coaching again - YAY) and to completely update my entire look. As I rebuild my natural beauty pantry and refresh my products, I've also minimized most of the ingredients I use for my homemade goods. This recipe comes from this new plan! -- go get the ingredients -- and start making it NOW...as you read this!!! Any Oil Will Work -- So Use Your Favorite! I have a gang of coconut oil and olive oil in my pantry, but olive oil kinda sits on top of my hair. It seems to work better when mixed in with a conditioner or even my yogurt, apple cider vinegar, olive oil deep conditioner (with sweet orange essential oil). Coconut Shea Butter is soft, silky, and will leave your skin indulgently moisturized and glowing. If you love using shea butter in your hair, and haven't combined these 2, stop what you're doing 9 Coconut Oil Benefits You don't have to buy organic products to make wonderful natural goods. I've made many things with what I could afford, what was on sale, and what was actually working for me. Since our skin is our largest organ, and whatever you put on it goes directly into your system, organic foods and products tend to have fewer toxins and pesticides. Keep checking those labels though, and make sure they are certified organic...as you know, everything marked natural and organic -- isn't. Coconut oil is packed with Vitamin E, which makes it a wonderful moisturizer for your hair and skin. There's a long list of coconut oil benefits like: • it reduces frizz • a natural emollient • great deep conditioner • softens hair and skin • a conditioning moisturizer for hair and skin • gentle enough to be used on baby's skin (and their cute bottoms) • can penetrate the hair shaft (although I haven't found any clinical evidence of this yet) • can be used as a lip and body scrub when combined with sugar If you like to cook it up in the kitchen, coconut oil can be used as a tasty replacement for real butter. You won't even tell a difference. Shea Butter Benefits Shea butter is also rich in Vitamins A, E, D, essential fatty acids, and allatonin (a product of uric acid that promotes the healing of skin wounds and infections). It's a little heavier than a lot of butters so I like to combine it with lighter oils and butters when I can. Shea butter has been used for chemo-prevention because of it's many anti-tumor promoting compounds. One study done in 2012, proved it's anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects specifically in the treatment of severe dermatitis. It's truly a healing butter. In addition to your body, use this to seal in moisture after a wash and for styles that need a slick look. I like to use it to keep frizz away on ponytail days... • adds natural shine to hair • helps hair retain moisture 10 Follow Your Intuition Here's the basic recipe: 30 drops essential oil (1/4 teaspoon) 2 ounces of carrier oil (4 tablespoons) organic safflower oil castor oil rosemary essential oil basil essential oil cedarwood essential oil MEGA HAIR GROWTH SERUM It all started with Kemi Oyl... -- you know, that oil from back in the day in the small brown bottle. It was The BOMB! Kemi Oyl wouldn't weigh your hair down, it smelled good, made my hair ultra soft, and it was never oily. The bottle said it was all-natural, but it didn't list the actual ingredients. I wasn't as concerned about natural ingredients back then, so it wasn't a deal breaker. 11 Kemi Oyl worked and made wrapping my hair each night something to look forward to. When I was looking for a hair growth oil a few years ago, I found Kemi Oyl in Sally's Beauty Supply -- again. I was about to get it but first, I had to check those ingredients. It still didn't say. Since my kids have a few allergies, I have to check the ingredients to be safe. The Carrier | Safflower Oil Safflower oil is described by Milady's Skin Care and Cosmetics Ingredients Dictionary, as a carrier oil that is "hydrating to the skin." Safflower oil is a light, fragrance free oil that is high in essential fatty acids and triglycerides. These nutrients are excellent for: 1 increasing circulation to the scalp 2 stimulating hair growth So I set out to make my own. 3 strengthening hair follicles I found some pretty good hair oil recipes, but I wanted an oil that would also speed hair growth. 4 keeping hair shiny and vibrant I gathered all of my ingredients to see what oil showed up the most. Castor oil won, so I added it to some safflower oil and essentials. Safflower oil has some of the highest nutrients of all carrier oils and blends very well with other essential oils. The Mega Hair Growth Serum was born! I'm going to show you how to make your own Mega Hair Growth Serum with ingredients you know will grow your hair. 12 7. Often used for masking odor and providing fragrance in cosmetics** 8. Lowers cholesterol 9. Natural stress reliever 10. Eases muscle and rheumatism pain 11. Calms the digestive system 12. Relieves bloating Essentials Oils For Mega Hair Growth 13. Treats lung congestion, sore throat, and canker sores The Boss | Rosemary Essential Oil 14. Stimulates the nervous system, motor nerves, adrenals, and a sluggish gallbladder This oil has so many benefits, I couldn't begin to list them all...but I tried! 15. Improves memory 16. Helps increase concentration 21 Benefits of Rosemary Essential Oil 17. Great remedy for forgetfulness, mental fatigue, and depression 1. Stimulates hair growth 18. Strengthens perception and creativity 2. Beneficial for acne, dermatitis, and eczema 19. Helps balance mind and body 3. Improves poor circulation 20. Prevents dizziness 4. An ancient remedy for dandruff and hair loss 21. Helps you remember 'good dreams' 5. Helps eliminate cellulite ' 6. Detoxifies the liver 13 Interesting Fact... "An age-old remedy for dandruff and hair loss, [rosemary] branches were even used as hair brushes. Kathy Keville & Mindy Green, Authors of Aromatherapy: A Complete Guide To The Healing Art The Motivator | Bodacious Basil Essential Oil Milady's Skin Care and Cosmetics Ingredients Dictionary describes basil oil as "stimulating, purifying, and antimicrobial." Basil's benefits include: • promotes hair growth • relieves headaches, sinus congestions & head colds • treats nausea, shingles, herpes, indigestion and sore muscles • stimulates adrenals • stimulates the production of breastmilk • helps balance oily skin • has an uplifting effect • confidence booster • increases awareness 14 The Healer | Soothing Cedarwood Essential Oil Cedarwood is a natural antiseptic that blends well with other oils. It's benefits include: • stops hair loss • relieves dandruff • heals acne • improves sleep quality • stimulates circulation • a natural astringent for oily and congested skin conditions • soothes bug bites and itching • clarifies and inspires the mind • sedates nerves 15 DIY COCOA SHEA BUTTER See the full recipe at http://lavishlynatural.com/velvet/ 2 tablespoons cocoa butter 2 tablespoons shea butter Cocoa Butter – softens and lubricates the skin This recipe is made with allnatural, organic butters and oils you can find in most grocery Shea Butter – anti-inflammatory, it protects the skin from dehydration ¼ cup coconut oil 1 tablespoon avocado oil food stores. I’m using the coconut oil I buy from Trader Joe’s, 16 “VELVET” | DIY COCOA SHEA BUTTER INSTRUCTIONS 1 Gently melt ingredients on warm or low setting on top of the stove (or in your crockpot). 3 2 Allow to cool for up to 4 hours, or place in the refrigerator for 30 minutes. Warm for 5 minutes or until all ingredients have melted. Pour into jar or heat safe container to cool. I like to speed the process so I put the butter in the refrigerator for 15 minutes 17 DIY Cocoa Shea Butter A rich, healing body butter for healthy skin 18 Trust Life To Be Wonderful. Small onion, finely chopped 1 red pepper, finely chopped 1/2 green pepper, boiled then cut lengthwise 2 medium tomatoes, skinned 100g peas, cooked 200g small manilla clams 200g squid 2 garlic cloves coarsely chopped CALENDULA OIL Calendula oil (Calendula officials) is a light, moisturizing oil that adds shine and eliminates frizz. It’s antimicrobial, antifungal, anti-inflammatory, and antiviral. Cover these flowers with sunflower or olive oil, and let it sit for a few weeks — you’ll have a decadent oil that works well by itself AND blends well with others! 19 Calendula Flowers Calendula oil comes from the petals of the marigold flower. These daisy-like flowers are often vibrant orange to bold yellow in color. *Do not use calendula if you have an allergy to ragweed or similar plants This flower is most often used in aromatherapy to treat skin problems and wounds. It stimulates the production of collagen at the wound site, which helps reduce scarring. During the Middle Ages, calendula flowers were used to color and flavor different cheeses! Calendula Oil Benefits & Uses • works as a natural emollient • calms diaper rash and irritation • soothes and prevents chapped lips when used in lip balms • great for sensitive skin • soothes scalp irritation • calendula tea can be used as a toner to heal acne • reduces inflammation in skin conditions like eczema and dermatitis. • rejuvenating for hair and skin 20 Add fresh, dried lavender and rosemary leaves to the calendula oil. This will not only add natural fragrance, but also boost feelings of relaxation, and stimulate hair growth. 21 All is well. 2 tablespoons shea butter 1 tablespoon olive oil 6 drops of orange essential oil 6 drops of sandalwood essential oil *optional 3 drops of lavender essential oil I was in the midst of washing, conditioning, moisturizing and braiding my daughter’s hair this weekend, when the unthinkable happened… I couldn’t find my burnt sugar pomade! Luckily I had plenty of shea butter in the stash, so I went to the kitchen and stirred up something AMAZING! Ingredients + Spoon = Beautiful Hair & Body Butter This recipe uses 2 main ingredients and my favorite essential oils. 22 A little shea goes a long way so this recipe would last us forever if we didn’t also use it as a body butter (it’s excellent for your skin). Whether you leave your hair braided or twisted for the day or for a couple of months, this butter does a great job keeping your hair moisturized and protected from the elements. It’s phenomenal for dry skin and helps replenish dull skin and a dry scalp. Olive Oil Benefits Olive oil is easy to find and great for use in homemade hair and skin products. Being In The Know Since I LOVE knowing what I’m putting on my hair and skin, I’ve including some benefits of shea butter, olive oil, orange essential oil and sandalwood EO. Shea Butter Benefits Shea butter is the HBIC (Head Butter In Charge) for most skin and hair regimens. This bodacious butter works for many naturalistas because it’s special powers are so…special! It’s extremely rich in: Vitamin A (great for the overall health and beauty of skin and hair) Vitamin E (moisturizes and helps prevent hair loss) Vitamin F (essential fatty acids that nourish hair follicles, increases strength and thickness, and prevents breakage) & other healthy nutrients and minerals that heal, soothe and hydrate the skin Olive oil: • decreases your risk of heart disease • contains Vitamin E which is great for hair and skin • helps reduce inflammation in the body • packed with polyphenols, olive oil slows the growth of unwanted bacteria in the digestive tract, which helps decrease infection and lowers the risk of cancer in the digestive organs • strengthens your bones • improves cognition (memory, mental focus, and verbal fluency) • Packed with healthy fats, olive oil is great for hair because of it’s ability to promote healthy hair growth. Other hair benefits include: • natural hair conditioner • promotes hair shine 23 • it’s antimicrobial and antibacterial which helps keep bacteria and fungus from growing on your scalp Sandalwood Essential Oil • a natural emollient which soothes, and softness hair and skin Sandalwood is by far, one of my favorite scents. I love it in hair butters because the scent lightly lingers without being overpowering and annoying (you know what I’m talking about:). Orange Essential Oil It’s also an emollient, memory booster, and used in everything from medicines to deodorant! This lively fragrance has a naturally calming effect on your nervous system and boosts feelings of peace. It’s even used to add flavor to beverages, desserts, and chocolate! It’s also one of the safest citrus oils to use in homemade products for kids*. Tangerine and mandarin orange are also good. Orange essential oil is anti-inflammatory, a natural antidepressant, and antiseptic. The oil comes from the peels of oranges and is great for balancing oily skin, and it helps cure itchy, dry scalp. Sandalwood is a natural astringent which helps tighten the skin and strengthens the muscles and gums (which is why you may find it in breath fresheners). It also soothes skin and helps heal scars. This centering fragrance boosts feelings of calmness, increases your ability to concentrate, and helps you stay in a good mood. It also helps reduce fear, anxiety, restlessness and stress. Here are some other benefits you may not know about orange oil. 24 HAIR OIL COCKTAIL 1/4 cup Sunflower Oil 1 Tbsp Castor Oil 1 Tbsp Olive Oil 1/8 tsp Aloe Vera Extract 1/8 tsp Calendula Extract 4 drops of Cedarwood, Atlas 8 drops of Vanilla Essential Oil This is our go-to hair oil recipe in our household. I usually have all of the ingredients on hand (give or take coconut oil here or pumpkin seed oil there) and none of them need to be heated. Infuse this cocktail for 2 weeks to 2 months (depending on how vanilla you want your vanilla scent) with real vanilla beans. Vanilla oil can be pricey, but homemade…wait for it…priceless! It will definitely make it a richer, more succulent, oil for your curls. 25 Instructions: Pour oils into plastic container, bottle, or glass jar. You may always infuse real flowers into your hair oil. Add fresh or dried lavender, roses (pink or red), or calendula flower. Benefits of Hair Oils Safflower Oil (Botanical Name: Carthamus tinctorius) Soften’s hair and skin, medium to lightweight oil that’s great to blend with sunflower oil. Wonderful alternative to nut oils for any allergy sensitive naturalistas. We have nut allergies in our home and do not use almond oil which is very popular (and awesome) and works well in this recipe. Castor Oil (Botanical Name: Ricinus communis) Improves hair shine and overall greatness! Seals moisture into hair strands and ends. Excellent for dry, brittle ends. Sunflower Oil (Botanical Name: Helianthus annuus) An all-purpose carrier oil, sunflower is a light, sweet, greaseless oil that is packed with omega 6 and omega 9 essential fatty acids. Shelf life: 12 months Olive Oil (Botanical Name: Olea europaea, cold pressed) Olive oil adds moisture to the scalp making hair more shiny and soft. Fun facts: olive oil has antifungal and antibacterial properties. It’s texture is heavy and oily…good to add to conditioner (1 tbsp will work in any conditioner). Shelf life: 1 to 2 years Aloe Vera Extract (Botanical Name: Aloe barbadensis) Excellent relief for dry hair, aloe vera extract is as awesome as her soul-mates aloe vera gel, the aloe plant, and the whole aloe family. Known to prevent hair loss, add moisture, and healing to damaged scalp and hair, aloe vera extract is a very light oil that adds extra lusciousness to your curls, kinks, and coils. Calendula Extract (Botanical Name: Calendula officinalis) I discovered this extract in my favorite Carol’s Daughter’s Oil – Tui Oil (smells like heaven). I started working with calendula extract in my hair oils and leave-in conditioners. It eliminates frizziness, softens and adds extra fabulousness to hair, works great as a body oil, and has extreme moisturizing powers. Cedarwood, Atlas (Botanical Name: Cedrus atlantica) Warm, rich and woodsy, this scent is excellent for any diy recipes for that special person in your life (and not just because it’s a natural aphrodisiac). Sexy Cedarwood provides relief stress, promotes hair growth, and rids the scalp from dandruff. Vanilla Essential Oil (Botanical Name: Vanilla planifolia) Rich, warm, sensual and sweet vanilla goodness 26 1 cup shea butter 1 tbsp apricot kermel oil 1 tsp peach kernel oil 1 tsp passionfruit oil 1 tsp organic olive oil** 1 tsp homemade vanilla oil (safflower oil, whole vanilla beans) 1/4 tsp aloe vera gel* 1 tsp vegetable glycerin (natural emollient; add as needed for extra whipped-ness and fluff without oiliness) 10 drops lemon essential oil (or your favorite essential) WHIPPED APRICOT SHEA BUTTER INSTRUCTIONS 1. This mix can be done by hand in a mixing bowl, or you can add ingredients to your blender or mixer. If you find your raw shea butter too “hard” to work with, 2. Heat 1 cup of water on medium high for about 5 minutes. (You can also warm some water in the microwave until it’s almost boiling). 27 3. Place your shea butter in a heat safe container or glass (I use a pyrex measuring cup) and set the cup in the hot water. This will melt your shea butter gently while keeping all of its Bodacious plant sterols, fatty acids, and superpower vitamins and antioxidants in place (our skin and hair LOVE these). 4. Place your mixer on high and Whip It!!! 5. Mix for about 2 minutes after adding each ingredient. • Detangling power • Protection (apply on ends before bed for a shinier twist out in the morning) *Optional – I have a lot of this left over from my last Shea-loe phase **Coconut oil is excellent in this mix. This recipe is flexible and will work well with 1 cup of raw, organic butter (shea, mango, cocoa, kokum, etc.) and 1/4 cup of your favorite oil). Whipped Apricot Shea Butter Skin Care Benefits: • Heals itchy, sensitive skin • Soothes dry, cracked skin from eczema • Excellent for “tough” and “are those your feet scratching me” spots • Perfect stretch mark prevention and healing • Natural Hair Care Benefits: • Hair repair from heat damage • Produces natural shine (a little goes a long way) 28 HOMEMADE VANILLA OIL I often get asked what my ABSOLUTE favorite recipe is, or the one I can’t live without. When my kids were babies, I used this oil in place of baby oil. I still use it for deep pressure massage with my son. If I had to pick just one thing it would be this — homemade vanilla oil. Why? It’s luxurious, tells frizz to have several seats, is excellent for skin, and gets even better over time. 29 Did you know vanilla oil has some crazy medicinal properties? Vanilla Oil Benefits • it relieves nausea • lowers blood pressure • it’s an anti carcinogenic that slows and prevents the development of cancer • a natural sedative that induces sleep • has antidepressant properties that lifts mood, dissolves anger, and promotes good feelings • encourages dreaming • helps regulate menstruation • enhances libido (ahhh yeah) 30 INGREDIENTS Additional Ways To Make Vanilla Oil 1 cup safflower oil 1/2 cup apricot kernel oil 1/2 cup rice bran oil 1/4 cup cocoa butter (melted) 4 to 6 whole, ground, or cut vanilla beans Crockpot Recipe INSTRUCTIONS 1. 2. 3. 4. Add ingredients to jar Let sit in the sun for up to 8 weeks Strain the vanilla pieces from your oil and enjoy! This oil has a shelf life of 1 to 2 years. BASIC VANILLA OIL RECIPE 1. 2. 3. Use 2 cups of safflower oil (or sunflower oil) 1/4 cocoa butter (melted) 4 to 6 whole, cut, or ground vanilla beans Add safflower oil, whole vanilla beans, and remaining ingredients to crockpot. Use the warm setting for about 30 minutes. Turn off the heat and add 10 drops of vanilla essential oil. (Do not bring oil to a boil) Stove Top Recipe Put all the ingredients in a quart-sized pot. Turn the stove to the LOWEST setting, and let it simmer for up to an hour. Lavish it up with hair lovin dried botanicals like: pink or red roses, lavender, hibiscus, or chamomile flowers — all 4 are wonderful for hair and skin. 31 Be Still And Know. 1/2 cup Shea Butter 1/4 cup Cocoa Butter 1/4 cup Coconut Oil PUFF BUTTER INSTRUCTIONS 1. Boil water and take off heat. 2. Let it cool for about 2 minutes, then set your cup full of butters and oil inside. 3. Stir occasionally to make sure everything is melting together. 32 4. To keep all of the nutrient properties and gifts of your butters and oil, slowly heat your shea butter and cocoa butter in heat safe container that can sit in very hot water. 5. Boil water and take off heat. Let it cool for about 2 minutes, then set your cup full of butters and oil inside. 6. Stir occasionally to make sure everything is melting together. 7. Once everything has melted together, pour the mixture into a jar or container. 8. Allow puff butter to cool. Once the butter if firm, you can stir it or whip it up for a different texture. It’s also perfect right out of the jar! This twist butter smells good enough to eat — and it only has 3 ingredients! It also doubles and triples as a body butter, and edge slicker for all of your updos and pretty puffs. Cocoa Butter Wafers - 33 To keep all of the nutrient properties and gifts of your butters and oil, slowly heat your shea butter and cocoa butter in heat safe container that can sit in very hot water. 34 “What you think about, you bring about.” Lisa Nichols 3/4 cup almond oil 1/4 cup apricot oil 8 to 10 drops of any one of the following essential oils: ylang ylang, rosewood, or sandalwood SWEET ALMOND MASSAGE OIL Hands will glide all over your body with this all-natural, deeply nourishing massage oil. It's moisturizing, light and absolutely lovely for everyday use. INSTRUCTIONS 1. 2. 3. 35 Boil 2 cups of water and remove from heat. Measure your oils and place them in a heat safe container. Place the container in the hot water and let sit for 5 minutes. 4. 5. 6. 7. Pour half the oil in your 8oz bottle. Add essential oils and shake to blend oils. Add remaining oil. You're good to go! Any 1 of the following essential oils are suggested: Ylang ylang EO stronger scent; sweet, floral; works as a sedative so use it in low amounts; natural aphrodisiac; makes your senses more alert Ingredient Benefits Rosewood EO Apricot Oil (aka apricot kernel oil) Rich with vitamins A, E, C, this nourishing oil deeply moisturizes the skin. The oil comes from the apricot kernel of the apricot pit. It’s lightweight, non greasy, and absorbs directly into the skin. Apricot oil leaves the skin feeling silky and smooth. Its anti-inflammatory properties allow it to be soothing for all skin types, and really good for skin conditions like eczema. It’s also very high in gamma linoleic acids which allows your skin to maintain its natural moisture balance. Apricot oil’s lubricating nature makes it wonderful for massage, and won’t mess up your sheets. sweet, rosy and woodsy fragrance; helps rejuvenate the cells; encourages tranquility and eases headaches; natural aphrodisiac Sandalwood EO soft, warm and woodsy; promotes peaceful relaxation and openness; and yes…it’s a natural aphrodisiac:) Almond Oil (safflower oil is the perfect alternative for my allergy sensitive naturalistas) This oil provides the perfect slip needed for a good massage oil. Coming from pressed almonds, this oil revives the skin, won’t clog pores, and is easily absorbed. Don’t be surprised if your skin begins to glow after repeated use. Almond oil is one of the best in nourishing and encouraging healthy beautiful skin. 36 VANILLA MINT HAIR & BODY OIL vanilla bean fresh mint 1/4 cup safflower oil 1/4 cup apricot kernel oil 1 tablespoon coconut oil (liquid) 1 tablespoon avocado oil Use this oil for shine, hot oil treatments, oil rinses, on your ends, as an after shower body oil, and in your bath (4 to 6 drops). rosehip seed oil (4 drops) vitamin e (1/4 tsp) vanilla essential oil (6 drops) While they ate worked on their oils. I love vanilla and I LOVE art, I shook up the holiday edition mint even more, but I rarely comof one of my favorite hair growth peppermint essential oil (2 drops) 37 bine the scents until the holidays (those cupcakes don’t count:) The scent of this oil makes me miss the snowy winters of the east coast…but not too much:) The original hair growth oil recipe includes cedar wood, ylang ylang, and sage essential oil. These oils have strong hair growing properties and a deep earthy fragrance — not what we’re looking for today. For the Holiday Version we’ll be leaving these out, but we won’t lose any hair growing benefits from this recipe. I’m including a spotlight on each ingredient so you can see why it’s so good for our hair. It’s high in essential fatty acids (omega 3, 6, and 9) and gives the benefits of a rich, thick oil, without the oily-ness. Plus, if you’re using it as a massage oil…it won’t leave your sheets oily or sticky. This oil is extremely affordable compared to it’s more expensive cohorts, and restores a healthy glow to hair and skin. Bonus Recipe: A Massage Oil for Santa’s Helpers Apricot kernel oil 1/2 cup Organic safflower oil 1/2 cup Lavish Ingredient Spotlight Safflower Oil (conditioning) Safflower oil, when added to my clay washes, hot oil treatments, and cosmetics, gives my hair shine that can be seen without squinting! It conditions the skin, is high in unsaturated fatty acids that give your hair shine, and your body a radiant glow! 15 drops sandalwood essential oil 10 drops rose essential oil Avocado oil is rich in Vitamin A, and essential and trace minerals, which are great for preventing hair loss. It is also used to treat the thickening of the skin (sclerosis) and gum infections. Since it soothes and heals the skin so well and stimulates blood flow to the scalp, it promotes hair growth and speeds wound healing. Apricot Kernel Oil (restoring) This oil is a perfect substitute for almond oil in that it’s consistency and function is similar. Since I’m a naturalista with nut allergies, I stumbled across this oil when looking for non-greasy, nut-free oils for hair and skin. If using this blend for infant massage or with children, try 2 drops of vanilla essential oil or 2 drops of orange essential oil instead. Apricot oil absorbs quickly leaving a silky feel. This makes it PERFECT for use as a massage oil, as well as in soaps and cosmetics. 38 Coconut Oil (healing) Rosehip Seed Oil (rejuvenating) This by far, is my favorite all-around oil. I use it for hair, skin, cooking, baking, vegan cooking & baking, and when using food as medicine, which is daily in our home. You may know that coconut oil penetrates the hair shaft and promotes hair growth, but did you know it can: Rosehip seed oil heals! It is high in omega-3, omega-6, and omega9 essential fatty acids, which are good for the hair, brain, mood, and healing the skin. This oil is excellent for repairing damage to the skin, and for skin rejuvenation. I use this oil as a natural moisturizer for my sensitive skin. 1. reverse thinning hair 2. reduces the loss of protein in damaged and undamaged hair Peppermint Essential Oil (revitalizing) 3. helps hair retain moisture, preventing breakage 4. warming coconut oil before applying it to your hair makes it a powerful conditioner by itself. Keeps hair shimmering and soft 5. applying coconut oil to your ends can reduce the appearance of split ends, and possibly heal them Peppermint oil has ancient roots as a medicinal oil. It’s been traced back to the early 1600’s! When I was growing up, my grandmother had wild peppermint growing outside by her back door. You could smell it upon entering and leaving her kingdom. She put it in her homemade tea (which was like water then in the south;) and I was in college before I realized all tea wasn’t made with fresh mint leaves! 6. prevents baldness and gray hair Avocado Oil (nourishing) Avocado oil is rich in Vitamin A, and essential and trace minerals, which are great for preventing hair loss. It is also used to treat the thickening of the skin (sclerosis) and gum infections. Since it soothes and heals the skin so well and stimulates blood flow to the scalp, it promotes hair growth and speeds wound healing. My love of peppermint and peppermint oil runs deep, and that’s a good thing because it’s a powerful healing herb that’s awesome for hair growth. If you should eat a bit too much during the holidays – get rid of that upset stomach with hot peppermint tea. I drink it for an upset stomach or nausea, and give it to my kids when they have any tummy discomfort. It’s gone in minutes! 39 Peppermint Oil Cedar wood Essential Oil (stimulating) • Stimulates blood flow to the scalp Cedarwood essential oil is stimulating to the scalp and is often used as a natural cleanser. A few drops added to your daily spritz, or gently massaged into your scalp for a pre-poo, is all that’s needed to begin seeing the benefits of this essential. • Promotes healthy hair growth • Is an effective treatment for irritable bowel syndrome • Prevents dry and cracked nipples from breastfeeding (i learned the sore way: peppermint oil = happy nipples:) For my research lovin’ naturals, check out what current clinical research has to say about peppermint oil. Vanilla Essential Oil (calming) I used this on my kids when they were babies to make sure there was no cradle cap. Cedarwood essential oil is anti-seborrhoeic (seborrhea or eczema). Eczema occurs when there is a malfunctioning of sebaceous glands which increases sebum production and infection of the epidermal cells. I’ve had eczema since I was a teenager (thanks pool @ White’s Creek High School) and use prevention to keep my kids from having the nasty flare ups that can come from this condition. Did you know vanilla oil fights cancer? Heals wounds? It’s true! Vanilla Oil: • Regulates menstruation • Enhances libido Flare ups are itchy and sometimes painful depending on the area. Although I have oily skin, my chin and areas around the T-zone can feel like a forest fire during a flare up (no pun intended). Cedarwood is an anti-inflammatory oil that reduces skin peeling, regulates sebum production and treats infection. • Encourages dreaming Next time you’re having a muscle spasm, try massaging some cedar wood into the area (mix it with a tablespoon of olive oil). It’s antispasmodic, meaning it relieves muscle spasms and spasms of the heart, intestines, respiratory system and nerves. • Reduces nausea (this was wonderful during each pregnancy:) • Relieves stress, anxiety, insomnia, and depression 40 Ylang Ylang Essential Oil (balancing) This essential balances the natural sebum in your scalp, prevents hair loss, and stimulates hair growth. I love Ylang Ylang so much, I wrote a post about it…9 Ylang Ylang Benefits for Hair & Body! Sage Essential Oil (strengthening) Natural scalp & hair tonic, anti-fungal, anti-microbial, anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory, restores alertness, induces mental stability, helps prevent hair loss, increases flow of creative ideas. SAGE SHOULD NOT BE USED DURING PREGNANCY. 41 1 tablespoon organic shea butter 1/2 tablespoon organic coconut oil 1/2 tablespoon organic olive oil Additional Options: essential oil’s for a light, all-natural fragrance 2 to 4 drops palmarosa essential oil 1 teaspoon aloe vera gel 1/2 tablespoon organic cocoa butter ORGANIC HAIR BUTTER This organic hair butter recipe won’t weigh your hair down, provides your curls with deep moisture, eliminates frizziness, and can be ready to use within a few minutes. My kind of hair butter! This recipe makes about 2 ounces. If you need more, it’s super simple to double. It’s also a great moisturizer for hands, feet, and twinkly toes. 42 Visit http://lavishlynatural.com/organichairbutter/ for the online edition of this recipe. INSTRUCTIONS 1 Simply melt the ingredients down in a heat safe container, or in a small pot on the lowest heat setting. 2 Remove from heat and let cool for 10 minutes. 3 Pour into a sealable jar. 43 4 Place in your refrigerator for up to 20 minutes, or in your freezer for up to 10 minutes. Your butter will be firm but soft to the touch. It should melt on your fingers and into your hair. 44 "When used together, whole plants and essential oils often create a synergy with greater potential for healing than either used alone." Kathi Keville & Mindy Green 1 cup organic sunflower oil 1/2 cup organic coconut oil 1/2 cup organic hibiscus flowers ORGANIC HIBISCUS OIL INSTRUCTIONS 1. Add ingredients to quart-sized pot. 2. Bring to a boil, then turn off heat. 3. Let hair oil completely cool in the pot for about 15 minutes. 4. Pour into 12 oz bottle or jar and enjoy! 45 NOTES Sun Goddess | Infused Oil Recipe 1. Add all ingredients to a sealable jar or container. 2. Seal jar and place in a sunny window (direct or indirect light) for up to 8 weeks. 3. Optional: 6 drops of palmarosa essential oil for fragrance (or use your favorite essential oil) Organic Hibiscus Oil Benefits This is a light, luscious oil that adds softness and sheen to your hair. A naturalista favorite for hair growth, this oil is perfect for detangling, hot oil treatments, twists & braids, and oil rinsing! Milady's Skin Care and Cosmetics Ingredients Dictionary (3rd Edition) didn't have a description of hibiscus oil, but it did have some things to say about hibiscus extract: • it's moisturizing and refreshing • provides a tightening effect without stripping the skin of it's natural oils • recommended for oily skin due to its high degree of astringency and it's toning properties • the extract is obtained from the flowers • there are over 200 varieties of this plant 46 1/2 cup coconut milk 1 tablespoon olive oil 2 tablespoons honey 4 drops of vanilla essential oil** DIY CONDITIONING HAIR SMOOTHIE You’ve had Lavish’s nourishing tonics and teas, but has your hair had a homemade smoothie lately? Today’s recipe is one of THE easiest, deep conditioning conditioners to make. I’m using fresh ingredients, but this recipe is just as awesome with substitutions. 47 If your Inner Mixtress is interested in making the milk that goes into this smoothie, I’ve included some extra links below for how to make your own. If you drink or cook with its contents, the healing goodness that comes from this bodacious botanical is powerful enough to: 1 cleanse your liver (rules the skin, joints, and eyes) In this recipe, you can always substitute your favorite essential oil or leave it out all together. Mix or blend your ingredients for about 2 minutes for a slightly thicker smoothie consistency. I apply the smoothie in the shower, and leave it on for 30 to 45 minutes (sometimes longer). 2 prevent and heal digestive disorders 3 help you lose weight 4 clear and naturally enhance your complexion – helps skin tags, moles, and brown spots fade away Because it contains oil, you can apply heat for an even deeper conditioning experience (hair dryer, heat cap). I usually put my hair in a baggie and let body heat do it’s thang! Young Green Coconut Milk Up until a year ago, the only time I saw a green coconut was on vacation, with a straw in it. Little did I know I would be hacking…I mean, cracking them open every week like I work on a beach! I use young green coconuts mainly for the water they contain. This younger variety has more nutrients, electrolytes, protein, B Vitamins, minerals and other goodies our hair, mind, and body love. 48 I specifically use coconut water to make a dairy-free probiotic drink that helps my 4 y/o improve his speech and communication, and strengthens his immune system. (You can read more about our story here and here.) As a result, I have young green coconuts all over the place and lots of coconut meat left over. More healthy hair benefits include: Which brings me to this recipe! • reduces split ends If you can’t tell by now, I put just about everything in my hair! • helps remove dirt and excess sebum from hair & skin I’ve used coconut milk to make henna and as a plain hair conditioner. It leaves hair soft, silky and deeply moisturized. • adds natural shine This has truly helped me minimize frizz and made detangling a tropical breeze! • contains lauric acid which is anti fungal, antibacterial, and antiviral (no more funkiness in the scalp:) • high in fatty acids that replenish & rehydrate • packed with Vitamin E which is a natural hair and skin moisturizer • nourishes hair • prevents dandruff 49 One More Thing… Of course you don’t have to crack open a coconut to make this recipe…canned coconut milk works beautifully. One can will do. For more info on coconut milk benefits and how to make your own, check out my post How To Make Homemade Coconut Milk. You can also go straight to the video by clicking here. For the online version of this recipe, visit http://lavishlynatural.com/hairsmoothie/ 50 CHAPTER 3 CLEANSING CLAYS & DEEP CONDITIONERS LavishlyNatural.com/greeksmoothie 1/2 cup fenugreek seed (whole or powdered) 2 tablespoons slippery elm bark powder 4 cups distilled water 2 tablespoons coconut cream 1 teaspoon coconut oil FENUGREEK SMOOTHIE It all started with my crown. I noticed thinning — again. And usually, by the time I notice MY hair is thinning, I’m a week away from bald. I knew fenugreek seeds were good for hair growth. I had a jar from my cactus fenugreek addiction. I stopped throwing away the leftover seeds and started using them to thicken plant-based conditioners. Fenugreek seeds, when applied regularly to the scalp: enhances hair growth and hair re-growth 52 preserves hair’s natural color gives hair a silky feeling adds shine and gloss softens hair treats dandruff decreases hair thinning stops hair loss The slippery elm bark is optional in the recipe, but it gives it such a great creamy feel. It's also the ingredient that turns your left over fenugreek smoothie into a conditioning pudding. It has the texture of a pudding and goes on like a cream. This recipe will last in the refrigerator for up to 6 weeks. Just stir it before using. Food-based Substitutions for Coconut Cream If you don't have coconut cream, try some of these substitutions. Whole Fenugreek Seeds 53 Use 2 tablespoons of any of the following: avocado bananas (mashed and pureed) coconut butter honey molasses maple syrup raw agave syrup Hard Water Alternatives I like to save the water the fenugreek seeds make for hair rinses. You may want to add more liquid to your smoothie or pudding. If you're looking for hard water alternatives, try these: Fenugreek (Methi) Seeds: Natural Hair Growth Herb of the Year? Fenugreek seeds are high in Vitamin A, Vitamin B6, Vitamin C, iron, selenium (relieves stress), magnesium (natural muscle relaxer), flavonoids, potassium, zinc (creates feelings of peace and relaxation), folic acid (helps prevent autism), and thiamin. Other Fabulous Fenugreek Benefits: • heals the mucous membranes of the body • has an anti fungal, antibacterial, and ant inflammatory effect on the body • used for upset stomach, digestive problems, constipation, and gastritis (inflammation of the lining of the stomach) • high in fiber and protein distilled water • contains choline, which studies have shown slows mental aging, and calms the symptoms of pms and menopause* aloe vera juice • naturally boosts libido green tea hibiscus tea • blood sugar regulator - controls blood sugar for Type 1 & Type 2 Diabetes fenugreek hair rinse • helps stimulate contractions during childbirth 2 tablespoon • good for heart health, prevents hardening of the arteries s apple cider vinegar in 2 cups of water • increases energy and stamina 54 • great for use as a topical treatment for burns, boils, eczema, and gout • anti pollutant for the body • prevents fibroids • stimulates hair growth • increases milk flow in nursing mothers - even in the midst of a mild case of mastitis, I discovered. Fenugreek seeds contain a compound called diosgenin*, which is what many believe in- Fenugreek Smoothie 55 creases the milk flow. This same compound, along with other key nutrients, vitamins, and minerals, is what herbalists believe boosts hair growth and thickness. • gives you bigger boobs? Check out one more thing... This recipe is from my Healthy Hair Challenge. Join me as we put these, and other natural recipes into practice @ http://lavishlynatural.com/90daychallenge/ HAIR MILK I love using milk in my hair, but there are times that my hair goes through detox periods and wants nothing milky, creamy or creamy-ish in her coils. This is when I pull out the BIG seeds — flaxseeds! Flaxseeds are so wonderful, I could write a song about them. But I won’t…yet. Two tablespoons of flaxseeds contain 133% of Omega-3 fatty acids. Omega 3’s are wonderful for our hair, brain, body, and immune system. Omega-3 fatty acids “cleanse the arteries, support the heart, boost immune-system function, and nourish the brain.” Rosemary Gladstar, author of Family Herbal. You don’t have to eat this recipe for your hair to still experience the softening, healthy hair growth wonders of flaxseeds. But…if you would like a recipe you can eat, try my Sweet Flax Milk. It’s really good! 56 Mix 1 cup with a tsp of flax oil and it makes a wonderful deep conditioning rinse:) Homemade Hair Milk http://lavishlynatural.com/hairmilk/ This recipe is so simple, I added my new favorite essential oil to make it more Lavish! INGREDIENTS FOR HAIR MILK 2 1/2 cups of water 1/4 cup flaxseeds 1 teaspoon aloe vera gel 1/4 cup coconut oil 1 tablespoon coconut oil (gives it that creamy look and feel without being oily or greasy — it also won’t clog your pores) Fresh flaxseed gel, right off of the stove, and poured into my favorite natural hair care container -the mason jar! 57 INSTRUCTIONS ! ! ! ! ! 1! 2! 3! 4! 5! Bring flaxseeds to a boil, then reduce to medium-high heat for 10 to 15 minutes. After boiling, strain the flaxseeds out of your gel quickly. It will be thickening as you pour. After you’ve poured the flaxseed gel into a bowl, add the aloe vera gel, essential oils and coconut oil. I like to stir this recipe, but you can also use a blender/mixer on low to medium speed for up to 1 minute. This recipe will last up to 3 weeks. Keep it stored in your refrigerator. Palmarosa Essential Oil Benefits Milday’s Skin Care and Cosmetics Ingredients Dictionary (3rd Edition) describes the properties within palmarosa oil as: • • • • • “soothing, moisturizing, antiseptic, tonic, and cell regenerating has an immediate calming and refreshing action on the skin recommended for use with dry skin, skin conditions and dermatitis can be used to mask odors the oil is obtained by distillation of this flowering grass-like plant 1. 2 to 4 drops of your favorite essential…I’m using palmarosa essential oil. I’ve been really feelin this one lately. Plus it’s light and smells a lot like roses. 60 3 Tbsp bentonite clay 3 Tbsp apple cider vinegar 3 Tbsp honey (I like a lot in my mix) 2 Tbsp marshmallow root powder 1 Tbsp Safflower Oil (jojoba, coconut, and avocado oils will also work) up to 1 cup of aloe vera juice (add liquid slowly and use more or less liquid depending on how thick you like your mix 4 to 6 drops of your lemon essential oil HOMEMADE BENTONITE CLAY WASH If you haven’t tried clay – this is the recipe for you. If you love clay like I do, switch up your liquids. Try some coconut water or green tea for a clarifying, nourishing clay wash. INSTRUCTIONS 1. You can mix this in a bowl or with your blender. 2. Mix clay and vinegar first. 61 3. Add sunflower oil and honey. 4. If it starts to clump up on you, begin adding water. Start with 1 cup and continue to add until you reach your desired consistency. I like mine to be pourable but it’s up to you. 5. Apply it to your hair, let it sit for 30 to 45 minutes, and rinse…well. 6. Play with your ingredients. This is a basic recipe…it likes when you add to it! Watch me make a clay wash here. 62 AMLA & HIBISCUS CURL DEFINING DEEP CONDITIONER See the full pictorial for this recipe at http://lavishlynatural.com/amlaandhibiscus/ I started with dried hibiscus flowers I had left over from my henna ‘tea.’ Using my blender I created a powder for the mix. I mixed the hibiscus and amla with other hair loving ingredients. The honey and marshmallow root powder make this really easy to rinse out. 63 What Is Amla? Amla, also known as Indian Gooseberry, is a fruit that belongs to the Euphorbiaceae family (a large family of flowering plants). Amla Benefits*: • strengthens hair roots • high in Vitamin C, carotene, and iron • prevents dandruff • nourishes the brain • reduces hair loss • improves mental functioning • helps prevent greying of hair • improves luster • gives hair volume • improves skin health • increases vitality • promotes healthier hair • helps define natural curls 64 Ingredients 3 tbsps amla powder 2 tbsps hibiscus powder 2 tbsps raw honey 1 tbsp marshmallow root powder 1 tbsp linden leaf & flower powder 1 tbsp horsetail powder 1 1/2 tsp coconut oil 1 1/2 tsp cocoa butter 1 cup coconut water 65 INSTRUCTIONS 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Mix your powders together so that they are well blended. Slowly stir in coconut water until desired consistency (start with about 1/4 cup...slowly go up from there). Add honey and stir. Add in coconut oil and cocoa butter. Apply to hair. Let conditioner stay on for 20 to 45 minutes. (I usually let mine stay on for a few hours) Rinse. NOTES Hibiscus tea, green tea, purified water, or aloe vera juice, are great substitutes for coconut water. Amla powder can be drying on the hair - do a strand test before applying to your full head. 66 1 tablespoon bentonite clay 1/2 cup aloe vera juice 2 tablespoons marshmallow root powder 2 tablespoons organic honey 1 to 2 tablespoons safflower oil CROWN DETOX INSTRUCTIONS 1. Add ingredients to bowl in the order listed. 2. Stir by hand to reach the desired consistency. 67 WHEATGRASS & GRAPEFRUIT DEEP CONDITIONING CLAY WASH 2 tablespoons Bentonite clay 3 tablespoons Grapefruit juice 1 tablespoon Linden leaf powder (softens and conditions the hair) 1 tablespoon Horsetail power (promotes hair growth, strengthens hair) 1 tablespoon Wheatgrass powder (helps mend damaged hair, can also turn gray hair back to it's natural color) 1 teaspoon Marshmallow root powder (conditions hair, adds slip to the mix) 1 tablespoon Safflower oil (or your favorite oil - olive, sunflower, etc.) 2 tablespoons Honey (natural humectant) 1 cup Flax water (or purified water, aloe vera juice, green tea) 1 teaspoon Vitamin E 6 to 8 drops Grapefruit essential oil 6 to 8 Rose essential oil (naturally softens and conditions hair) 68 sunflower greens (L), wheatgrass (R) INSTRUCTIONS 1. 2. I use a mixer for this recipe but you can easily make it in a bowl. Add clay, linden leaf powder, horsetail powder, marshmallow root powder, and wheatgrass to mixing bowl. Gently stir dry ingredients with fork until blended. This will keep your mix from clumping up on you while mixing. 3. Mix in purified water. Blend for 2 to 4 minutes. I like my cleanser to be more like a shampoo consistency - not a paste. You can always increase or decrease the liquid amount based on what you like. 4. Add essential oils and Voila! Add honey, grapefruit juice, safflower oil 69 This is my FAVORITE clay mix because it has wheatgrass (softens, detoxifies, promotes hair growth) which is excellent for mind, body, and hair! It’s also made with grapefruit juice instead of my apple cider vinegar (that I LOVE). always increase or decrease the liquid amount based on what you like. This will last for about a month in a refrigerator (I use it all before then so it may last longer:) Also, enjoy a shot of wheatgrass today. The benefits of wheatgrass are endless but the Top 5 are: 1. Increases red blood-cell count and lowers blood pressure 2. Fights tumors and neutralizes toxins 3. Externally applied to the skin can help eliminate itching almost immediately 4. Is a beauty treatment that slows down the aging process when the juice is consumed 5. Greatly increases energy levels I use a mixer for this recipe but you can easily make it in a bowl. Add clay, linden leaf powder, horsetail powder, marshmallow root powder, and wheatgrass to mixing bowl. Gently stir dry ingredients with fork until blended. This will keep your mix from clumping up on you while mixing. Add honey, grapefruit juice, safflower oil. Mix in purified water. Blend for 2 to 4 minutes. I like my cleanser to be more like a shampoo consistency - not a paste. You can 70 http://lavishlynatural.com/chocolate/ 3 tablespoons rhassoul clay 1/4 cup cocoa butter (melted, add slowly) 2 tablespoons honey 2 tablespoons warm coconut milk CHOCOLATE I love using bentonite clay for cleansing and conditioning, but when my curls start to feel crunchy dry, I make chocolate! This rich, moisturizing rhassoul clay deep conditioner has 4ingredients. If you’ve been on the fence about trying a mud wash or clay conditioner, make this recipe your first! 71 If you have any leftovers of this recipe, keep them in an air tight container and place it in the refrigerator. If you’re using this Chocolate on the same day, saran wrap will work. If you’re making a big batch and have lots left over, you can freeze this clay for up to 6 months. INSTRUCTIONS Rhassoul clay: 1. helps remove toxins from hair and body 2. contains high levels of silica, magnesium, calcium and potassium, which are excellent for healthy hair and skin 3. softens and conditions hair 4. elongates kinky curls 5. adds shine 1. Add all ingredients to your mixing bowl. 2. Stir until the clay is smooth. 3. If you like a paste consistency, add less coconut milk. If you like it more like a chocolate sauce (like mine above) add more by the teaspoon. 4. Once the clay is mixed, apply it to your hair. 5. Let it condition for 45 to 60 minutes. 6. Optional: Add a heat cap for a luscious deep condition! 7. Rinse well! This clay likes to hide in my coils more than bentonite clay, so make sure to rinse well, then rinse again! 72 Optional Liquid Substitutions: Don’t have warm coconut milk? Try these substitutions: • aloe vera juice • coconut water • distilled water • grapefruit juice • green tea • homemade flaxseed gel 73 4 ripe bananas 1/2 tsp fresh lemon juice 1 tablespoon apricot kernel oil 1 teaspoon raw agave syrup (or molasses) BANANA DEEP CONDITIONER Naturally detangles hair, leaves hair shiny and well moisturized. The smoothie texture makes it rinse right out, but if your bananas are firm, it may be an issue. INSTRUCTIONS 1. 74 Blend on high for up to 1 minute in a high speed blender 2. This recipe makes 16 ounces. 3. Use within 7 days. Keep stored in your refrigerator 75 VIDEO | GREEN JUICE CLAY CLEANSER CHAPTER 4 HAIR TEAS & TONICS 1 cup Distilled Water 1/4 cup dried organic red or pink roses 1 tablespoon dried organic hibiscus flowers 1 1/2 cups flaxseed water (2 tablespoons of flaxseeds in 1 1/2 cup of distilled water) 4 to 6 drops Rose essential oil 4 to 6 drops Sandalwood essential oil *fresh rosemary and fresh mint ROSE SANDALWOOD REPLENISHING HAIR TONIC INSTRUCTIONS In a small pot bring distilled water and organic roses/hibiscus to a boil and immediately reduce heat. Let simmer on low to low-medium heat for 15 minutes. 78 In a separate pot, bring flaxseeds and water to a boil for 4 to 5 minutes. This mix is enough for 2 (8) ounce bottles or one mega bottle for a concentrated dose of softening, conditioning power! (Note: I ran out of my regular flaxseeds and used golden as well. They both work the same but look pretty cool boiling together) Once the rose water has cooled, add half to your bottle or container. Immediately pour flaxseed water through a strainer to remove all flaxseeds. Allow to cool before adding to your containers or bottles. *Lavish Option (add 1 sprig of fresh rosemary and 1 sprig of fresh mint to the flaxseed liquid before boiling for a natural infusion of botanical goodness!) 79 I use rose water and flaxseeds for just about everything including conditioners, rinses skincare treatments. Pure rose water has many healing benefits, smells wonderful, and can be easily mixed with other flowers and extracts to deepen any at home spa or hair care treatment. However you use this one, play around with your favorite essentials substitute green tea or aloe vera juice instead of flaxseed gel. See what your hair loves! Make sure to store your flaxseeds in an air tight container. They will last about 3 weeks in the refrigerator and you can reuse them at least one to two more times for fresh flaxseed water and gel! (that’s roses, rosemary and apple mint from my backyard in there with the flaxseeds…they smell wonderful!) Flower Therapy: The next time you see pink roses, know that they give off an energy of love and divine magic. This beauty is more of an inner light, inner power, an inner radiance that comes through everything you do. If these roses could talk they would say -- Love Who You Are! You are Irreplaceable. Let your inner beauty shine! 80 Organic Benefits Organic red or pink roses softens and conditions the hair, promotes hair growth. Helps hair maintain it’s proper balance of moisture (click here for more rose benefits) Organic hibiscus flowers – great for scalp stimulation and hair conditioning; adds fullness and thickens the hair Flaxseed water – adds natural slip and shine to thirsty tresses; gives you all of the benefits and moisturizing effects of an oil without being an oil… Rose essential oil – adds a light natural fragrance and transformative mood lifter: boosts self-esteem and confidence Sandalwood essential oil – grounds the senses, activates a calm, clear mind. Natural fragrance Rose Sandalwood Replenishing Hair Tonic is wonderful to use as a rinse, or leave-in spritz. Mini Twists LOVE IT! For the full post on this recipe, click http://lavishlynatural.com/herbaltonic/ 81 HIBISCUS HAIR TEA 2 tablespoons fresh or dried hibiscus flowers 2 tablespoons dandelion root 2 tablespoons flaxseeds 3 sprigs of rosemary leaves (or 10 drops of rosemary essential oil) 2 tablespoons catnip flower 8 cups water (2) 16 oz bottles or a 32 ounce jar with top INSTRUCTIONS 1 Add hibiscus, dandelion root, flaxseeds, and rosemary leaves to water. 2 Bring to a boil. 3 Turn heat to low, and simmer for 5 minutes. 4 Remove from heat and let sit for 5 minutes. 5 Add catnip to warm water and let sit for 10 minutes. 6 Strain leaves, flowers, and seeds from water. 82 Hibiscus Hair Tea Ingredients 83 This recipe is great year round. Start using it as a rinse, hair spritz, or leave-in. INGREDIENT BENEFITS catnip – can be used in place of conditioner, moisturizes hair, heals split ends, increases hair volume and thickness comfrey root – stimulates the scalp, heals scalp irritations, speeds wound healing, stimulates hair growth, softens hair, prevents hair loss dandelion root – tones the skin, helps balance sebum in the scalp which promotes hair growth; relieves dandruff 7 8 Pour into bottles. Keep in refrigerator for up to 2 months. roses – fragrant, rose water is extremely rich in flavonoids and vitamins A, C, D, E, and B3; a natural moisturizer that rejuvenates hair This recipe comes from my 2015 Summer DIY Collection. It’s our most popular hair tea recipe ever and I know why...it’s super conditioning! I know what you’re thinking...it’s a hair tea, how conditioning can it be? hibiscus flower – can be used as a natural hair dye; has a high mucilage content making it a wonderful hair and skin moisturizer that is gentle for sensitive skin; helps hair and skin retain moisture. It could be the deep conditioning power of the catnip, or the hair healing properties of comfrey root, hibiscus flowers are deeply conditioning, heal the scalp, and help balance mood and unblock creativity. It had me a deeply conditioning. Oh...and did I say it adds shine, not sheen, shine to your hair! lavender flower – a cleansing oil that prevents hair loss; a cell rejuvenator that prevents scarring and stretch marks; a balancing flower/oil that relaxes and stimulates 84 calendula flowers – works as a natural emollient, soothes scalp irritation; a cell rejuvenator that helps hair follicles grow, creating thicker hair rosemary leaves – improves circulation and blood flow to the scalp; helps prevent and treat hair loss, prevents baldness, aids in hair growth lemon leaves – rich in anti-oxidants and vitamins, which are beneficial for perfect skin, hair and health chia seeds – packed with vitamins A, B, C, copper and iron, chia seeds restore health and strength to hair; rich in omega-3 faty acids, prevents hair loss, gives hair luster and shine flaxseeds – high in omega-3’s, revitalizes the skin, nourishes the hair and scalp, adds shine, softens the hair, helps define curls See the full recipe at: http://lavishlynatural.com/hibiscustea/ and watch the Hibiscus Hair Tea Video here. 85 I am a perfect expression of radiant health. 1 tablespoon dandelion tea 2 tablespoons catnip tea 2 tablespoons comfrey root 1 tablespoon hibiscus (will turn your tea red) 1 tablespoon flaxseeds 1/4 cup aloe vera juice 4 cups of water DANDELION & HIBISCUS HAIR TEA INSTRUCTIONS 1. Bring water to a boil 2. Add hibiscus and remove from heat. 3. Add comfrey dandelion, catnip, comfrey root, and flaxseeds. 4. Let cool for 15 minutes. 5. Add aloe vera juice and lemon essential oil 6. Add 4 drops of lemon essential oil (or your favorite) optional 86 NOTES Add this conditioner to the end of your hair wash routine for best results. You can leave it on for 5 to 10 minutes for deep conditioning before rinsing. I discovered this recipe by accident a few years ago when my kids were learning to swim. I was looking for something to use on their hair when they came out of the pool. It had to be more conditioning than apple cider vinegar, but not leave any product buildup since I would be using it almost daily. I had catnip, comfrey root and hibiscus. They worked well all week so this became the base recipe. I slowly started to add more ingredients to see if it made a difference. Chamomile flowers, lavender, different essential oils, vegetable glycerin — all were good but I found the recipe below to be the most conditioning. 87 2 tablespoons marshmallow root powder 3 cups purified water 2 tablespoons catnip 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar Grapefruit essential oil (or your favorites) ylang ylang essential oil SLIPPERY MARSHMALLOW DETANGLING CONDITIONER INSTRUCTIONS 1 Heat 2 cups of water to just before boiling and remove from heat. 2 Add catnip and let sit for 10 minutes. 3 Strain catnip roots/leaves from the water. 4 Bring the remaining cup of water to a boil. 5 Add marshmallow root powder and apple cider vinegar to boiling water. 88 Geranium 6 Remove from heat 7 Allow to cool for 10 to 15 minutes. 8 Add catnip infused water to marshmallow root/ apple cider mixture. 9 Add essential oils and apply. Improves skin, reduces blood pressure, anti-bacterial, helps in the regeneration of new cells, uplifting, strengthen’s mental functioning Great for use after shampoo, co-wash, and deep conditioner. Also good as a hair rinse. I leave catnip on my hair but this is personal preference. Some naturalista’s wash it out after use. Cell rejuvenator, anti-fungal, reduces appetite, conditions hair, eliminates dandruff, enhances sensuality, good for centering and meditation Patchouli Rose bulgarian Best Essential Oils for Healthy Hair Grapefruit Essential Oil Natural anti-depressant, promotes positive feelings, hopefulness and relaxation. Excellent overall health tonic for hair, mind, and body, helps balance oily skin Clary sage Natural relaxant, anti-depressant, reduces muscle spasms, natural aphrodisiac, heals rashes, reduces inflammation, induces feelings of euphoria, joy, and confidence, helpful in breaking addictions. Decreases nervous tension, mind calming, boosts libido, improves memory, anti-bacterial, decreases nausea, improves circulation Sweet orange Uplifting, cheerful, anti-depressant, relieves cramps, boosts the immune system. This is my favorite essential for homemade hair and skin goodies for kids. Team Lavish refers to this scent as Fruit Snacks. We add it to baths, hair and body oils, and buddas Ylang ylang Anger eliminator, dissolves anxiety, helps reduce blood pressure, balancing/centering properties, balances an overactive scalp, promotes hair growth, clears negative thoughts, reduces dermatitis 89 I used to make this recipe with one of my favorite blended essential oils...until it was sold out. I tried to find as many of the ingredients as I could, but I was still missing a few. I decided to go with one -- ylang ylang essential. I love the scent and it helps heal the scalp. 90 1 tablespoon (or 1 tea bag) dandelion root 2 tablespoons of flaxseeds 2 1/2 cups of water 5 drops of lemon essential oil (or 1 tsp of lemon juice) 1 tablespoon honey *Optional – 1 to 2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar DANDELION HAIR TEA INSTRUCTIONS 1 Steep your dandelion root or dandelion root tea bag in 8 ounces of water for 4 to 5 minutes. Strain dandelion root from water if using scoops. Set dandelion tea to the side. 2 Boil flaxseeds in 2 cups of water for 4 to 5 minutes. 3 Remove from heat and strain the flaxseeds from the water immediately. 91 4 Add honey to hot flaxseed water (consistency should be slippery) and allow the mixture to cool for 10 minutes. 5 Combine flaxseed water, dandelion tea, apple cider vinegar, & lemon to 20 ounce bottle. Shake to get all of the ingredients happy and blended. 6 7 Wash & condition your hair. Pour tea over your hair for your final rinse. Dandelion Tea Benefits: 1 Power packed with the following vitamins and minerals: iron, zinc, calcium, potassium, copper, & Vitamins A, B, C & D 2 natural skin toner 3 natural laxative 4 natural diuretic 5 settles an upset stomach 8 Let sit for 5 to 10 minutes with a plastic bag or cap on your hair. 9 Rinse briefly (less than a minute) and style! 6 relieves bloating 7 purifies the blood 8 helps control blood sugar When I was little, the first bouquet of flowers I made for myself, was a big bunch of yellow dandelions I picked from the yard. Very few things were better than blowing dandelions in the wind and pretending they were snow (it never snowed in Nashville,TN). 9 good for your tummy – helps ease digestion 10 reduces inflammation 11 cleanses the liver 12 relieves dandruff I had no idea that you could boil those suckers and drink them for an extremely healthy tea that’s even more magical for your hair! Dandelions are an edible herb packed with healing vitamins and minerals. 92 13 gives good hair sheen (a cousin to hair shine) 14 helps control acne, diabetes, and high blood pressure 15 helps balance the sebum in your scalp, which promotes hair growth 16 relieves dry hair The tea itself can be pretty bitter so make sure to sweeten with stevia or honey…or drink it with a side of red velvet cake:) Lemons help clarify hair 93 I am willing to see my magnificence. Louise Hay 3 medium cactus leaves (or pads) 6 cups distilled water 2/3 cup fenugreek powder 1/2 fresh aloe vera leaf 4 cups water CACTUS FENUGREEK CONDITIONER INSTRUCTIONS 1. Cleanse and prep cactus leaves 2. Cut into 4 pieces (better for food processing or grating) 3. In a large bowl, grate the leaves into a pulp, or use a food processor. 94 4. It's ok if pieces are left in the cactus, we're using it all! Maybe the Max Hydration Method or the Curly Girl Method? 5. Add 6 cups of water. 6. Let cactus conditioner sit for 2 to 3 hours. I haven’t followed a specific regime, maybe the Loc Method here and there, but that was before I discovered the Water Only Hair Wash Method. 7. Start making fenugreek conditioner. 8. Add 6 cups of water to fenugreek powder 9. Let sit for 2 to 3 hours. I’m on Day 11 and my hair is softer and I feel like I have full sebum coverage — a verrrrrrry necessary part of this method. 10. Mixture will thicken A LOT. 11. When 3 hours is up, combine conditioners in the same bowl. 12. Use a strainer, t-shirt, nut milk bag, or scarf, to strain the cactus and fenugreek from the conditioner. 13. Add to bottle. 14. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks. NOTES Add essential oils for fragrance. You may not need it. Fenugreek powder smells like syrup:)Have you ever followed a specific method or regime for your hair? 95 If you love gels, plant, and plant-based products — YOU. WILL. LOVE. THIS. Check it out:) 96 Be Still and Know 1 tbsp chamomile flowers (or 1 tea bag of chamomile tea) 1 tbsp dried lavender flowers 3 cups purified water 1 tbsp flaxseeds 1/4 cup aloe vera juice 6 drops rose essential oil *1/8 tsp optiphen LAVISHLY NATURAL’S LUSCIOUS HAIR TEA INSTRUCTIONS 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 97 Bring water to a boil. Reduce heat to medium-low and add flaxseeds, chamomile, and lavender flowers. Simmer for 5 minutes on medium-low heat. Add aloe vera juice and reduce heat to low. Simmer tea for 10 minutes. Remove from heat and add essential oil. Strain leaves and flowers from the tea and allow it to cool. 7. 8. Pour into container or 16 ounce bottle. Apply after wash and condition as a leave-in hair rinse. Chamomile Flower Facts: • • • • they smell awesome stimulate hair growth prevent hair loss soften skin Luscious Hair Tea 98 Lavender flowers are naturally hydrating and nourishing to the skin. According to WebMD, these flowers are a “possibly effective” treatment for alopecia areata (hair loss). If you’re making a large juicy batch of tea, consider preserving your extras. I’ve been using optiphen for my handmade goodies for about 2 years. Optiphen is a paraben and formaldehyde-free preservative. It keeps the microbial growth from bacteria and yeast from ruining This recipe comes with it’s own hair affirmations. Find them here: http://lavishlynatural.com/luscious-hair-tea/ your creams, gels, and juicy hair tonics. It also works well in both oilbased creams and lotions, as well as water-based shampoos and conditioners. It doesn’t change the feel or texture of your handmade delight. It will extend the life of things like homemade gels, conditioners, lotions, bubble baths and delicious hair teas. As with all products, especially handmade, research all ingredients and test this product on your skin prior to use. 99