Avoid Carcinogens in Your Beauty Products With These DIY Solutions

Avoid Carcinogens in Your Beauty Products With These DIY Solutions

Nov 19, 2014 | Uncategorized

There is a lot of information out there raising awareness to a pretty sad issue.  Major beauty companies are knowingly adding carcinogenic ingredients to their products.  Since our skin absorbs what touches it, it’s important that our whole body, scalp included, be treated with respect and care. 


Thanks to the people at inhabitat.com, we are able to pass on some important information to you:

“You may have thought that the worst thing your shampoo could do to you is to sting your eyes, but it turns out that your shampoo could be deadly. The Center for Environmental Health based in Oakland, California, performed a study on shampoos and soaps and found that 98 included a possible carcinogen known as cocamide diethanolamine (cocamide DEA).
Cocamide DEA is a chemically modified form of coconut oil that is used as a thickener or foaming agent in shampoo. However, the state of California has outlawed its use, because it may be carcinogenic to humans. The CEH is suing companies producing and distributing these products, including Prell, Paul Mitchell and Colgate Palmolive shampoos. Also included are products marketed to children, and even one which falsely claims to be organic (Organic by Africa’s Best.)
Until things are resolved, it seems like getting shampoo in your eyes may have become the least of your concerns. You can find a full list of all 98 suspect shampoos here.”

In the same chord, Vick’s Vapor Rub has been found to do similar damage.  A quote from LiveStrong states the following:

Avoid Carcinogens in Your Beauty Products With These DIY Solutions
Lung infections like pneumonia can occur from misuse of Vicks Vapor Rub.  Photo Credit thorax x-ray of the lungs image by JoLin 

“Vicks Vapor Rub brand has been marketed for treatment of cough and congestion, such as from colds or allergies, and muscle aches. Vapor Rub contains the chemicals menthol and camphor, which provide numbing and counter-irritant action on sore muscles. When applied to the chest and nose areas, the pungent odor of the combined chemicals may suppress cough and seems to open stuffy airways and nasal passages; however, it is likely that the decongestant benefits are superficial and that the chemicals provide a cooling effect to make breathing easier for short time periods. Regardless, Vicks Vapor Rub is used frequently in adults and children older than two years of age, and care should be taken to avoid side effects.”

You deserve alternatives. Let’s start with one for each, shall we? 

For shampoo, make your own at home with this recipe: 
Avoid Carcinogens in Your Beauty Products With These DIY Solutions
1 C liquid castile soap 
1/4 C olive oil
1/8 C honey 
(thanks, Pretty Smart Girl!) 

For a Vicks Vapor Rub Alternative:

Get a bottle or two of Eurospa’s Eucalyptus Oil Shower Spray.  The active ingredient in Vick’s is also Eucalyptus, as it’s antibacterial with menthol clearing properties. Simply Spray the product into shower or bath steam for a simple enhanced effect. Or add it to a humidifier for respiratory needs. 

The beauty and wellness industry often does nothing to keep you well. We at Eurospa are happy to provide alternatives for you. You deserve it.  Knowledge is power, pass it on!

Looking for the Perfect Christmas Gift? It’s Right Here!

Looking for the Perfect Christmas Gift? It’s Right Here!

Nov 12, 2014 | Uncategorized

Looking for a Christmas Gift that Benefits Your Health? It's Right Here!We spend so much time searching for the perfect holiday gift for our loved ones, whether it’s for Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanza and more! Whether you plan in advance or wait until the last week, the same question comes to mind: WHAT am I going to buy? 

Some people are hard to buy for and for some it’s far too easy, but one thing that remains in common is that people like to feel good. They like to be relaxed and enjoy the feeling of good health.

This is why we recommend eucalyptus oil shower spray as this years best gift (stocking stuffer too!) From warding off winter colds to cooling those summer burns, this gift is one that will keep giving back the entire year!

Benefits of Eucalyptus Oil


Arterial Vasodilator
Eucalyptus will help dilate the circulatory system, increasing circulation. Use 1 drop during massage over any area of concern.
Asthma
During an asthma attack, massage 1-2 drops over the chest. Also, inhale the aroma directly or diffuse in the air.
Brain Blood Flow
Diffuse or spray the mist throughout the home or classroom to increase circulation to the brain.
Bronchitis
Use topically or aromatically, massaging into the chest, back and throat, inhaling from the bottle, or dropping the oil on the shirt collar.
Congestion
Eucalyptus oil uses included clearly congestion from the airways. I recommend inhaling for nasal congestion and massaging the oil over all other affected areas.
Looking for a Christmas Gift that Benefits Your Health? It's Right Here!
Cooling
Yes, eucalyptus oil uses even include cooling the body down. Place several drops in a spray bottle, along with peppermint oil if you’d like some extra oomph, and spritz over the body. 
Coughs
Diffuse or spray throughout the room throughout the span of the illness, but also massage into the reflex points of the feet (follow the application guidelines in the link above), as well as over the chest, back, and throat. *Be sure to add the shower mist spray to a hot shower, bath or steam room, as this will quickly break through congestion and mucous for faster relief of respiratory conditions.
Diabetes
Because of the vasodilation mention above, using eucalyptus on a daily basis can increase circulation, a common issue for diabetics. I recommend massaging it into the body with lotion after each shower, as the massage will also help increase circulation.
Disinfectant
Its antiviral and antibacterial properties naturally make cleaning among one of the eucalyptus oil uses. Follow this household cleaners guide for more information.
Dysentery
Massage 2 drops of eucalyptus over the abdomen in a counter-clockwise direction to ease diarrhea, inflammation, and fight infection.
Ear Inflammation
Never put essential oil IN the ear canal! However, you can massage the oil on and around the outer ear. Use only 1 drop to start, diluted for children.
Emphysema
Eucalyptus oil uses are wonderful for all manner of respiratory disease. Diffuse or spray your personal sized mist the oil daily, massage 1 drop over the chest at least once a day, and another drop into the reflex points of the feet.
Expectorant

To help drain mucus from the lungs, massage 1 drop into the reflex points of the feet and apply another drop over the chest at least once a day (I’d personally do three times a day if no sensitivity is found).

Fever
Because eucalyptus oil uses include cooling the body (above), using during a high fever can help the body regulate its temperature and support its efforts in fighting infection.
Flu
Depending on your flu symptoms, eucalyptus oil uses will vary. You can apply to the abdomen to ease diarrhea, massage into aching joints and muscles, or simply diffuse through the air to fight infection.
Hypoglycemia
Another of eucalyptus oil uses, you can help regulate your blood sugar by massaging 1-2 drops into the soles of the feet daily.
Inflammation
Massage 1-2 drops over the afflicted area, always moving toward the heart to support the lymphatic system.
Iris Inflammation
This recommend comes from Modern Essentials (mentioned below). While you should never put essential oils IN the eyes, massaging into the temples may support the irises.
Jet Lag
Eucalyptus oil uses include waking up the body with its slightly sweet, fruity, and uplifting aroma. Use topically or aromatically.
Kidney Stones
Massage 1-2 drops of the oil over the afflicted area up to three times a day.
Lice
Its natural insecticidal properties make this among one of the more surprising of eucalyptus oil uses. Read more about treating lice naturally here.
Measles
Diffuse  and spray your mist throughout the home for the length of the illness, and massage 1-2 drops into the reflex points of the feet 2-3 times a day.
Neuralgia
Another of the little-known eucalyptus oil uses, massaging into the areas of concern daily can reduce pain.
Neuritis
Along with neuralgia, massage several drops into the reflex points of the feet and over the affected areas can reduce inflammation.
Overexercised Muscles
Strain, fatigue, etc can all be treated with a gentle massage of eucalyptus oil. Always massage toward the heart to move the lactic acid buildup through the lymphatic system.
Pain
Depending on the type of pain, eucalyptus oil uses may necessitate application to the reflex points of the feet or directly over the area of concern.
Pneumonia
Help the lungs to clear by diffusing constantly and massaging directly over the lungs. Use the shower mist as often as possible.  It will also help to massage eucalyptus into the reflex points of the hands and feet. 
Rhinitis
Reduce inflammation and open airways by inhaling directly from the bottle, massaging one drop over the sinuses, or applying as a hot compress.
Shingles
Eucalyptus oil uses include shingles for its antiviral properties, as well as its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. Massage into the affected areas daily, add to a warm bath, or use a hot compress over the area.
Sinusitis
Apply as a hot compress over the sinuses and massage 1-2 drops into the reflex points of the feet (toes and pads of the feet). You can also inhale directly or diffuse throughout the room.
Tennis Elbow
I highly recommend finding a massage therapist who specializes in treating tennis elbow and bringing along your eucalyptus to include in the deep massage of the area.
Tuberculosis
Eucalyptus oil uses include fighting the bacterial infection, clearly the lungs, reducing inflammation and more. Diffuse constantly and massage 2 drops into the chest and over the back.

With a list that extensive, who WOULDN’T want such a healing remedy stocked in their home? We invite you to stop by and buy a bottle of Eurospa’s Eucalyptus Oils Shower Spray today for yourself AND your loved ones for the holidays. They deserve great health and SO DO YOU. 

These Simple Tips Will Reduce Illness During Cold & Flu Season!

These Simple Tips Will Reduce Illness During Cold & Flu Season!

Nov 5, 2014 | Uncategorized

These Simple Tips Will Reduce Illness During Cold & Flu Season!As the fall and winter months unfold, getting a cold or flu may feel unavoidable to you and your family. But rest assured, there are definitely some natural and simple tips to reduce illness during cold and flu season for you and the whole family. 

Vitamin D. 
Vitamin D is the number one prevention and treatment for illness as it is an amazingly effective antimicrobial agent, producing 200 to 300 different antimicrobial peptides in your body that kill bacteria, viruses and fungi. The best source for vitamin D is direct sunlight exposure, but isn’t always available for many or practical during the winter. The next best thing to sunlight is the use of a safe indoor tanning device. If neither natural nor artificial sunlight is an option, then using oral supplements is your best bet.

Healthy food intake
The following foods are extremely beneficial for your overall health and strength of your immune system. Be sure to get a balanced amount of each.

-Fermented foods such as kefir, kimchee, miso, pickles, sauerkraut, etc.
-Raw, organic eggs from free-ranging chickens 
-Coconuts and coconut oil
-Locally grown fruits and vegetables
-Mushrooms, especially Reishi, Shiitake, and Maitake, which contain beta glucans (which have immune-enhancing properties)
-Garlic, a potent antimicrobial that kills bacteria, viruses AND fungi
-Herbs and spices with high ORAC scores: Turmeric, oregano, cinnamon, cloves 

Drink Water
Keeping hydrated allows the body to both function efficiently and to flush toxins and bacteria from your system. Water is essential for the optimal function of every system in your body.

Sleep
Make sure you are getting an adequate amount sleep. If you aren’t getting enough sleep, or enough restorative sleep, you’ll be at increased risk for a hostile viral takeover.

Steam
The body loves a chance to release stored toxins in the skin and other organs. Either create a good steaming shower and add our eucalyptus oil shower spray to the mix or do the same in a quality sauna or steam room.  This will also fight bronchial infections, respiratory struggles, improve circulation and alleviate pain from fibromyalgia and arthritis. 

At Eurospa, we are committed to your health and the health of the world around you.  Please take close care of your immune system this season and talk to us about our other products available for personal and spa use!

Hurry Along Hair Growth With These Easy Beauty Tips:

Hurry Along Hair Growth With These Easy Beauty Tips:

Oct 28, 2014 | Uncategorized

Hurry Along Hair Growth With These Easy Beauty Tips:Having long hair, for many, is a sign of health, beauty and even elegance. Many people, both men and women alike, would love some surefire ways to have long and lustrous locks. Did you know that there’s no fool-proof scientific method prove to accelerate or stimulate hair growth? This is a result of the many varying factors that contribute to the process, such as the weather, your age, what foods you eat, living habits and general overall health.  

With that being said though, there are still things you can do to hurry along hair growth and we are going to share with your our favorite beauty tips to do so!

1. Trim your hair 1/4 inch every 6-8 weeks.  It will clean the damaged ends off, allowing the shaft to continue growing out rather than in many damaged directions. 

2. Hot Oil Massages. Just heat up a hot oil treatment, rub it into your scalp, wait a little while, and you’ll see the difference — your hair will feel thicker, softer, and longer! While you can always use a store-bought treatment, homemade hot oil treatments work just as well. Jojoba oil, coconut oil, olive oils, and most other oils you like will do wonders; just heat it up and apply thoroughly.

3. Egg White Mask. A lot of people believe that this tip concerning how to make your hair grow faster doesn’t work well, but egg whites have been known for their healing properties and their ability to replenish hair and restore its softness and shine! Just crack open a few eggs, strain out the yolks, and make an egg white mask for your hair. Your hair will look ten times healthier instantly and will feel a lot stronger as well — which, ultimately, will allow your hair to grow faster!

4. Drink More Water. Water helps the body to process and flush out toxins faster, which makes it a quick and easy natural method that will make your hair grow a lot faster. If you drink about 8 cups of water a day, not only will your body feel better, but your hair will get stronger. The stronger the hair, the faster that it grows. Drinking water also keeps your hair hydrated from the inside out. Hydrated hair is happy hair because, when dry, your hair is much more likely to break.

5. Be Wise While Brushing Your Hair. I’m not saying over brush your hair though. We aren’t Marcia Brady who brushed her blond hair 100 times every night. Brushing the hair once or twice in the morning and once or twice at night will stimulate the circulation in your scalp, feeding the hair follicles and ensuring undisturbed hair growth. However, when your hair is wet, never brush it. That causes severe breakage, which ultimately stunts hair growth. Use a comb instead — wide-toothed combs are fine, especially if you experience tangles.

6. Protect Your Tresses. It’s old news, but heat damages hair! Try to stay away from blow dryers and heated tools, as they burn the hair. If you MUST use them, be sure to use a heat protecting spray or creme first, before styling. Keep in mind that the sun damages hair as well. In warm weather, or intense sunlight (even in the snow) keep a hat on to protect your hair from over drying and burning.

7. Eat Healthy Protein. Did you know that what you eat actually makes a difference in how fast your hair grows? If you eat a lot of protein-rich foods, you will see a huge difference in the quality of your hair, as well as the speed with which it grows. Things like fish, eggs, fresh fruits and vegetables, and even different meats all make a difference, so cut down on junk food and focus on heal meals.

8. Use Eucalyptus. Of course, right? Get into a sauna, steam room or even your shower, one to two times a week and spray eucalyptus oil shower spray near your head, about arms length away; never onto the head directly. The circulation promoting plant oils will penetrate through your open pores, waking up the follicles. Add to this a gentle scalp massage and you’ll have one happy head! You can also make a topical essential oil blend. I suggest mixing three drops of lavender oil, three drops of rosemary oil, and two drops each of thyme oil and cedarwood oil, along with some jojoba oil. All of this should go right onto your head and, I promise, the mixture will enhance your hair and make it grow that much faster! 

Eurospa is dedicated to your health inside and out. And health is definitely beautiful! We specialize in Eucalyptus products for both home spa and commercial use. Contact us today to see what we can do for you!

Naturally Moisturizing Home Remedies for Dry Winter Skin!

Naturally Moisturizing Home Remedies for Dry Winter Skin!

Oct 27, 2014 | Uncategorized

Naturally Moisturizing Home Remedies for Dry Winter Skin!Just as we need protection, our skin needs care as well. The kind of care that our skin needs is determined by the type of skin we have. There are four types of skin-normal, oily, dry and sensitive and each type of skin has its own complications. Having a dry skin means experiencing tightness due to lack of moisture and a need for a proper lubricant to rehydrate it. Many home remedies can help improve your dry flaky skin on face.

   Moisturize

Moisture forms a protective layer on the skin keeping it safe by keeping it hydrated. Oils that are easily absorbed by the skin, such as coconut, jojoba and almond, tend to be better at keeping the real moisture in, allowing the skin the best nourishment possible. Coconut oil makes the skin feel softer and removes its previous scaly characteristic by moistening it in a natural way. Coconut oil has sufficient amounts of fatty acid that make up for any loss of moisture from the skin. It works best when left on for an entire night. Apply proper amount before going to sleep and wash it off in the morning; do this every night.Over the counter creams work well in the beginning but only leave a surface layer of hydration.  
Use a Humidifier
Winter is not a friend to dry skin. The heating in homes evaporate the water from the air, which makes the air very dry. Humidifiers come in useful at a time like this by adding moisture to the air, and thus benefiting your dry skin. Either humidify the whole room or get a portable humidifier. We definitely recommend adding a few sprays of our eucalyptus oil shower spray to the room to enhance the health and wellness benefits. Eucalyptus in the air will not only open up the bronchial passages for better respiratory health and to cleanse the skin!
Exfoliate
An exfoliating scrub made by concocting lemon juice and sugar leaves your skin soft and glowing. With a circular massage of the skin with this beauty scrub, rough spots on the face become even. The vitamins C in the lemons is a good astringent that lightens the skin tone, removes patches on the skin and encourages cell growth. Mix a teaspoon of sugar and mix it with juice of half a lemon, use cotton balls to scrub all over the face. Put a jar of it on your nightstand and apply it regularly.

Eurospa is dedicated to your health and we can’t wait to hear how these remedies help you!