Natural Beauty – Healthy Grocery Girl

DIY Lemon Lavender Sugar Scrub

healthygrocerygirl — Wed, 11 May 2022 09:15:57 +0000

As we celebrate women through the month of May, gifting the women in your life this DIY Lemon Lavender Body Scrub is the perfect self-care item to help them feel special and cared for. This scrub is made with only a few simple ingredients such as orange and lemon zest, lavender and chamomile!

We love using lavender and chamomile because they not only may induce relaxation, but also give off amazing all-natural scents without any artificial fragrance.

Benefits To Making Your Own Scrub

A lot of products on the market are filled with toxic chemicals, fragrance and ingredients that either have not been properly tested or have been shown to cause harm to the body, such as endocrine disrupters. Making your own scrub at home can give you the assurance that you are only putting on your body natural and real ingredients. DIY items such as this scrub can also be more affordable for yourself or as gifts to others!

See below to view or print this DIY body scrub! If you make this scrub, please share a photo on Instagram and tag me @HealthyGroceryGirl so I can easily find and like your creations! It’s so fun to connect with you and see what recipes & projects you’re enjoying.

For more HGG DIY ideas you can also visit the HGG YouTube channel here!

DIY Beauty Body Scrub

Servings

Author Healthy Grocery Girl

Ingredients

1 cup sugar
½ cup extra virgin olive oil
1 tablespoon Limoneira orange zest
1 tablespoon Limoneira lemon zest
1 teaspoon dried lavender
1 teaspoon dried chamomile Tip: use the contents from a chamomile tea bag

Instructions

In a large bowl, add all your ingredients and stir to fully combine.
Transfer scrub to a glass jar with a tight fitted lid.
Use for yourself as desired or gift to someone you love!

If you love this DIY idea, check out these other easy & fun DIY beauty citrus ideas! At Healthy Grocery Girl, we want to help you life a healthy lifestyle and enjoy some affordable, at home family projects!

Orange Lavender Tub Tea

DIY Lemon Toner

Whipped Lemon Lotion

This video was created for the Limoneira YouTube Channel! Megan Roosevelt, RDN is the Spokesperson for Limoneira. To see all our tips & videos makes sure to visit & subscribe to the Limoneira YouTube Channel!

Health Benefits Of Collagen

healthygrocerygirl — Wed, 23 Oct 2019 09:14:54 +0000

Have you ever wondered, What Are The Health Benefits of Collage and Why Is Collagen So Popular? Can Collage Boost Hair, Skin and Nail Health? Can Collagen Support Gut Health? Collagen has risen in popularity over the past few years and people are consuming collagen for a variety of reasons. In today’s blog post we will explore what collagen is, its potential health benefits and how to use collagen!

What Is Collagen & How Does It Work In The Body?

Collagen is a fibrous protein that holds the body together by maintaining its structure and is found in your hair, skin, nails, teeth, tendons, blood vessels and cartilage. Did you know that it is the most abundant protein found in the body? Collagen is mainly secreted by connective tissue cells through specific vitamins and minerals and goes through many processes. It can replace or restore dead cells and also act as a protective covering to delicate organs. Collagen production within the body reduces with age and exposure to environmental causes such as UV light, smoking and food choices. The key vitamin in collagen production is vitamin C. Vitamin C plays a variety of roles such as converting and changing the molecular structure of collagen. Individuals who consume meat are likely consuming enough amino acids and key nutrients to produce collagen easily, however, plant-based diets are still adequate in producing collagen as well.

Collagen Peptides

When at your local health food store or reading about collagen online, you’re likely to come across the term collagen peptides. This simply refers to the amino acids that make up collagen. There are many different types of collagen that range in how they are structured. Currently, we do not have a lot of research about the different types to know which ones are most beneficial. Endogenous collagen is collagen that is naturally produced by the body. Exogenous collagen is synthetically made from an external source often in the form of supplements, powders and serums.

Health Benefits Of Collagen + Research

Since collagen plays a vital role in hair, skin & nail structure, its necessary for replacing dead skin cells and wound healing. This is why collagen has gained popularity in beauty products. Products claim to help reduce facial lines and give you a more glowing appearance. However, most collagen molecules are too large to absorb into the skin and may not give you the 20 year younger youthful look you were hoping for.

Another health benefit of collagen may be related to gut issues. Claims have been made that collagen can help with digestion, due to the fact that research has shown a diminished amount of collagen production in those with digestive issues. Collagen itself is essential for healing your intestinal wall. This may be beneficial for those with leaky gut. When it comes to supplements however, there is still inconclusive research done on overall gut healing.

The most promising research done on collagen is its benefits for bone and joint health. Many people have decreased pain with their osteoarthritis as well as rheumatoid arthritis when taking collagen. This may be due to the reduction of inflammation that occurs when consuming collagen. All of these findings show the potential of health benefits and as research continues, we will hopefully get clear answers as to whether or not consuming collagen can really repair and replace different functions in our body.

Collagen Supplements

First and most important thing to do is to support your body’s production of collagen naturally. This comes from consuming foods that are high in vitamin C, proline and glycine (amino acids that help the synthesis of collagen). This is found in foods such as blueberries, citrus fruits, bell peppers, nuts, seeds, eggs, tomatoes and asparagus. Consuming a quality whole foods, plant-based diet can really support your body’s natural collagen production.

However, as mentioned above, exogenous collagen comes in different forms from beauty products, supplements and powders. If you are wanting to try a collagen supplement, make sure to do your research! Not all collagen is created equal and may not be high-quality. Read extensive reviews, check labeling and look for brands that use third party testing. If you are vegan or vegetarian, you will want to avoid most all supplementation since it is mainly derived from animals. Instead, find a high-quality plant-based protein that will ensure you are receiving the adequate amino acids you need!

More Info

If you love learning about health, nutrition and how certain foods can support your health goals, check out the Healthy Grocery Girl Membership! Beyond recipes, the HGG Membership provides multiple educational nutrition video courses and guides as well as seasonal meal plans and more! Learn more about becoming and HGG Member here!

New Skincare Routine!

healthygrocerygirl — Thu, 18 Jul 2019 09:14:03 +0000

To be honest, I have been following the same skincare routine for about 5 years. I use all natural, organic products however, our skin changes based on the season, weather, with age and based on life events and hormonal changes such as pregnancy and postpartum. After my daughter was born I developed rosacea and my skin, especially my cheeks get really red with almost acne like spots. I’ve been looking for something I can add to my routine to help out my skin! Which led me to discover Primally Pure and I am obsessed! I’m sharing all about the 100% natural, non-toxic serums I’ve been using and how they’ve helped my skin in today’s new YouTube video! After you watch the video, head on over to the Primally Pure Website to check out all their amazing products and use HGG10 for 10% off your entire order!

Disclosure: This post is sponsored by Primally Pure. All opinions are our own. We only promote brands and products we love, use and believe the Healthy Grocery Girl community would love to learn about!

Loose Wavy Curl Tutorial

healthygrocerygirl — Thu, 20 Jun 2019 15:15:45 +0000

How To Create Loose Wavy Curls is one of the most common questions I get asked on Instagram… so here is my very own hair tutorial! This is my first time filming this type of video, so thank you for your patience with my setup and lighting! I am not a beauty or hair expert – this is just what works for me, but I hope it’s a helpful tutorial if you’d like to create lose wavy curls! For my favorite hair products that I use, click here! xx Megan

Orange Lavender Tub Tea

healthygrocerygirl — Fri, 03 May 2019 09:12:34 +0000

Hey Friends! Welcome back to the blog! Today I’m sharing with you how to make Orange Lavender Tub Teas, which are perfect for soothing your muscles and nourishing your skin! These are the perfect DIY gift for birthdays, events and holidays!

Orange Lavender Tub Tea

Servings

Author Healthy Grocery Girl

Ingredients

1/4 cup dried orange peel
1/4 cup epsom salt
1/3 cup rolled oats
2 tablespoons dried lavender
Cheesecloth bag

Instructions

Fill cheesecloth bag with all ingredients and tie bag shut.
Add to hot bath and enjoy the soak!

BEAUTY USES FOR ORGANIC EXTRA VIRGIN OLIVE OIL

healthygrocerygirl — Thu, 01 Nov 2018 10:25:06 +0000

Hi Friends! Welcome back to Healthy Grocery Girl! I love using simple ingredients I already have in my pantry for my beauty routine. It’s a great way to save money and nourish my skin with wholesome, clean ingredients.

Olive oil – a pantry staple – is a great beauty staple too! Olive oil contains a high concentration of mono-unsaturated fats, omega-3 fats, antioxidants, vitamins and anti-inflammatory benefits. Extra virgin olive oil reduces oxidative stress, which can help protect from skin aging and can be used as a skin moisturizer due the presence of a substance called squalene, a natural compound that is also naturally secreted by human skin. It penetrates skin deeply, while providing a cleansing effect!

Pompeian Organic Extra Virgin Olive oil is great for recipes like my go-to lemon tahini dressing you see me chat about on Instagram all the time and it’s also great for beauty. Today I’m sharing with you 5 beauty uses for olive oil!

No. 1 Makeup Remover

I love to use olive oil to remove the last bit of makeup my cleanser may have missed. It’s so simple, place a few drops of olive oil on a cotton round and apply to skin in a circular motion, being carefeul around the eye area. I love using a resuable cotton round.

No. 2 Exfoliating Sugar Scrub

I try and exfoliate my skin at least twice a week to help remove dead skin cells and my skin always feels so smooth and healthy after! To make my DIY exfoliating sugar scrub combine 1 cup of organic sugar, 3 tablespoons of olive oil and 1 – 2 drops of essential oil of choice – I love tea tree or lavender! Mix together and store in an airtight container.

No. 3 Cuticle Softener

Olive oil may help soften cuticles too! I find this beauty habit helpful in the winter months when my skin is more dry. Simply rub a tiny bit of olive oil onto cuticles and let the oil soak in to soften skin.

No. 4 Acne Spot Treatment

Extra virgin olive oil contains vitamin E and wound-healing anti-inflammatory compounds, which can be helpful for acne scars! This acne spot treatment may help remove dead skin cells, hydrate and fight bacteria.You will need 1 teaspoon olive oil, a wash cloth and warm water. With clean hands, gently rub oil on acne spot for 2 – 3 minutes. With wash cloth dipped in warm water rub the same areas to remove oil and dead skin cells! Repeat twice a day or as needed.

No. 5 Makeup Brush Cleaner

Makeup brushes should be cleansed at least twice a week…Okay – guilty, I do not clean my makeup brushes as often as I should! When I do, this is my go-to simple routine. Use two parts natural, gentle cleansing soap and one part olive oil. Wet brushes with warm water, please a drop of the cleansers in your hands and gently massage the makeup brush, rinse, squeeze out excess water, repeast to clean if necessary, reshape the bristles and let dry off the edge of a counter. Avoid letting brushes dry on a towel – which can promote mildew / bacteria growth.

I love these beauty uses for olive oil! I hope today’s video inspires you to use olive in in your beauty routine and if you have a favorite beauty use for olive oil, I’d love to know! Share with us in the comments below! Thank so much for watching and subscribing! See you in the next video!

Disclosure: Thank you to our sponsor Pompeian

NATURAL ORGANIC MAKEUP

healthygrocerygirl — Thu, 09 Aug 2018 18:24:46 +0000

Hi Friends! Welcome back to the blog. Today I’m sharing with you my favorite natural and organic makeup products! Watch the video below for all the details!

Favorite Natural Makeup Products

Primer: https://amzn.to/2nmnC47

Foundation: https://amzn.to/2MuugA4

Powder Foundation: https://amzn.to/2vvcJ4i

Blush: https://amzn.to/2vwdudr

Blush Stick: https://amzn.to/2vBvCTt

Thrive Causemetics Mascara, Eyeshadow, Eyeliner, Eye Brightener: http://thrivecausemetics.com Use Code: HealthyGroceryGirl for 15% off!

Concealer: https://amzn.to/2nmnJwz

Lipstick: https://amzn.to/2vuDhCH

MOTHER’S DAY BEAUTY DIY AND HEALTHY RECIPE IDEA!

healthygrocerygirl — Thu, 26 Apr 2018 09:30:12 +0000

Hi Friends! Welcome back to the blog! It’s almost May and we are so excited to celebrate Mother’s Day with all the incredible Moms out there. We hope you spend the day pampering and taking care of yourself or having someone pamper and take care of you!

In this month’s Limoneira video we’re sharing a simple DIY Beauty Recipe that is a great way to pamper mom this Mother’s Day! Plus a quick Mother’s Day Brunch Healthy Recipe!

Whipped Lemon Lotion

Servings

Author Healthy Grocery Girl

Ingredients

1 Limoneira lemon
3-4 drops of lavender essential oil optional
1/2 cup soft coconut oil

Instructions

Cut lemon in half and juice 1/2 of lemon into a large bowl.
Add in lavender essential oil or your favorite scent into bowl.
Add in coconut oil and whisk together until you have a fluffy, whipped lotion!

Cucumber Salad with Lemon Poppyseed Dressing

Servings

Author Liz Shaw

Ingredients

1 large cucumber
1/4 cup olive oil
1 teaspoon sugar of choice
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1.5 teaspoons poppy seeds
Dash of salt and pepper

Instructions

Cut cucumber into slices and set aside in a large bowl.
To make dressing, add olive oil, sugar, lemon juice, poppy seeds, salt and pepper into mason jar.
Put lid on mason jar and shake to combine dressing.
Pour dressing over cucumbers and stir to combine.

We are so excited to have Liz Shaw as our collab partner this month!

Elizabeth Shaw, MS, RDN, CLT is a nutrition expert, published author and owner of a nutrition communications consulting business. She is a nationally recognized speaker and freelance writer for Fit Pregnancy, Shape, Oxygen and Fitness Magazine’s. Her passion for spreading the message about the powerful role food and nutrition play in ones life has led her to be featured on Hallmark Channels Home & Family, NBC Los Angeles News, The CW San Diego News, Fox 5 News, What to Expect, The Huffington Post, Food Network, US News & World Report, Dr. Oz The Good Life, Bustle, The Daily Meal and PopSugar. She is co-author of the 2017 Hatherleigh Press, Fertility Foods Cookbook. You’ll find her at ShawSimpleSwaps.com (@shawsimpleswaps) and BumpstoBaby.com (@bumpstobaby), sharing her love for food and travel, along with a friendly smile to support those on their journey to baby. In her free time, you’ll find her and her husband outdoors, hiking and enjoying the San Diego sun!

DIY LEMON TONER AND LEMON SUGAR SCRUB

healthygrocerygirl — Thu, 25 Jan 2018 10:00:15 +0000

Hey Friends! Welcome back to the blog! Happy February! Today we are sharing with you two DIY beauty products that will make your skin feel smooth and refreshed! These two simple and easy products include a Lemon Sugar Scrub and a Lemon Toner!

Simple DIY Sugar Scrub

Servings

Author Ami Desai

Ingredients

1 lemon
1/2 tablespoon organic sugar
1/2 tablespoon honey

Instructions

Cut lemon in half and top with some sugar and drizzle of honey.
Rub lemon around face and leave on face for 10-15 minutes.
Rinse and pat dry.

Simple DIY Lemon Toner

Servings

Author Healthy Grocery Girl

Ingredients

1/2 cup juice from Limoneira Classic lemon
1 cup filtered water
1/4 cup witch hazel

Instructions

Add all ingredients into a jar or bottle with a tight fitting lid and shake to combine.

We are so excited to have Ami Desai as our collab partner this month!

As a first-generation immigrant born in the U.S., Ami has always felt there is a need for more South Asian representation in the media world. Her passion took her to UC Berkeley, where she majored in Communications. She started her career with E! Network and Hollywood.com before moving east for Graduate school. Ami received her Masters from Boston University in Broadcast Journalism. In 2006, she worked at CNN headquarters in Atlanta where she helped create the Middle East “Crisis Desk” connecting stranded US citizens with their families. Ami moved back to California and joined Inside Edition as a Producer. After a successful stint behind the camera, Ami served as a Host for Lux Lifestyles, a luxury travel show on Wealth TV, and most recently the premier host for #OWNshow, a digital exclusive web-show on Oprah.com.Simultaneously while creating a name for herself on-air, Ami built her own beauty business serving brides, models, and Hollywood talent. Her work has been seen in Seventeen Magazine and major red carpet events including the Golden Globes. Currently, Ami has brought her worlds of passion together and serves as an on-air beauty and lifestyle expert. She is also building her personal brand as a modern mom influencer that brings together her experience as a host, makeup artist and mom to help inform other women like her on how to juggle it all. Ami gets her energy and passion from connecting with people – whether that be through creating engaging content on her various social media platforms or offering her everyday tips on approachable beauty.

NATURAL DEODORANT

healthygrocerygirl — Sat, 02 Sep 2017 13:00:34 +0000

Hi Friends! Welcome back to the blog. I love trying new natural products & sharing about them with you! If you’re into living a healthy lifestyle you likely are already mindful to eat real, wholesome plant-based foods. From there you may want to adopt a natural beauty, personal care or home cleaning routine – this is where things can get overwhelming! There are so many products and when it comes to personal and home care, we typically have our favorites we’ve used for years. Some Organic products can also be expensive and it’s a real bummer to spend a lot of money on a new foundation, mascara or facial cream only to discover that you don’t care for it. Deodorant was the first natural personal care product I switched to when I was working on creating a more natural beauty routine. Since then, I’ve tried a lot of different options, some great, some okay and some I would not recommend. Recently I tried Spruce Naturals an Organic, natural deodorant that actually works.

I typically go for unscented deodorant, lotion or beauty products to avoid fragrance and also because my skin is sensitive. However, I was pleased with their scented options as well, lavender and lemongrass + pine. They are really mild – I don’t feel like everyone can smell my deodorant and their scent is natural from Organic essential oils. Below is a few highlights on this great brand!

Spruce Naturals

Spruce Naturals deodorant is made from bacteria- fighting coconut oil, soothing shea, wetness-absorbing baking soda, and deodorizing blends of essential oils

It’s free of the bad stuff (aluminum and paraben)
It’s certified organic, vegan, & cruelty free
It’s handmade in the USA
Smells great!

Check out Spruce Naturals here if you’d like to give their deodorant a try!

Sponsors make it possible for our team to create blog posts and videos that are free for our community enjoy. However, we only promote brands we genuinely love and use. We are grateful to receive support from brands we love and you can be confident to know that our reviews and opinions are honest and real. Thank you to Spruce Natural for sponsoring this post.