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Inside & Out

Plastic pollution: How you can help & take action now!

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Our oceans are filling up with plastic. In fact, we are all responsible for over 8 million tonnes of it finding its way into the ocean. Plastics longevity started off as major plus point, but over time, it has become a huge problem. Plastic doesn’t actually break down, it only breaks up, and because it’s so useful, it’s been used to make so many products. However, Plastic NEVER goes away; affecting our turtles, seabirds and other marine life. In short, plastic is a substance the earth cannot digest and our reliance on it is overwhelming our planet. So lets get busy changing old habits around single use items; and making the world cleaner and greener for everyone. More than 30 countries have introduced some form of voluntary or regulatory approach to restricting the use of single-use plastic bags. Governments in Australia and around the world have taken action to reduce plastic bag pollution. International and national policy measures to date have tended to focus on lightweight ‘supermarket’ shopping bags as these account for the bulk of bag usage and littering.

So how can you help?

Reduce Your Use of Single-Use Plastics
Wherever you live, the easiest and most direct way that you can get started is by reducing your own use of single-use plastics. Single-use plastics include plastic bags, water bottles, straws, cups, utensils, dry cleaning bags, take-out containers, and any other plastic items that are used once and then discarded.

Participate in a Beach Cleanup
Help remove plastics from the ocean and prevent them from getting there in the first place by participating in, or organising a cleanup of your local beach or waterway. This is one of the most direct and rewarding ways to fight ocean plastic pollution.

Recycle
This should go without saying, but when you use single-use (and other) plastics that can be recycled, always be sure to recycle them. This helps keep them out of the ocean and reduces the amount of “new” plastic in circulation.

Spread the Word
Stay informed on issues related to plastic pollution and help make others aware of the problem. Tell your friends and family about how they can be part of the solution, or host a viewing party for one of the many plastic pollution focused documentaries.

A natural floor to adore

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Carpets and rugs are a safe haven and breeding ground for a host of nasties, including mould spores, bugs, dirt and numerous undesirables. Certain floor coverings consist of synthetic materials and fibres, manufactured from exceedingly unsafe chemicals. These chemicals are dangerous to pets and young developing children, who spend most of their early lives close to the ground and are more susceptible to the dangers of toxic overload caused by consistently breathing in these harmful poisons.

Wherever possible, replace old carpets and rugs with easy to clean, natural fibre, wool and cotton coverings. Or even better, replace carpets with hard wooden flooring, an eco-friendly linoleum or ceramic tiles that can be cleaned easily, be sure to use non-toxic adhesives, sealants or stains when installing. It is extremely important to always keep rooms with carpets well ventilated  and ensure they are cleaned thoroughly on a frequent basis with a vacuum fitted with a HEPA filter. These filters capture a wide range of particles and are especially efficient at eliminating allergens, which is particularly important in babies’ and young children’s bedrooms and for anyone suffering from asthma and other respiratory disorders.

The Very Real Dangers of Pesticides!

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Plants, insects, bacteria, fungi and other organisms are all a natural part of our environment. Many benefit and hence our lives whilst others can be destructive and need keeping under control. The majority of pesticides used today are manufactured form toxic chemicals developed in a laboratory by scientists and mass produced in factories. These pesticides are toxic by design and can be extremely hazardous, not only to the pests they are designed to control but also to humankind, by contaminating our food and water supply and poisoning our wildlife and environment.

Home

Controlling pest and insect invasions in and around our homes and gardens is a seemingly never-ending task. Certain insects and rodents can contaminate stored food products, carry organisms that may cause serious human and animal diseases, infest our pets fur, and threaten fruit trees and vegetation. Many household products are classified as pesticides including; cockroach sprays, insect repellents, flea and tick sprays & collars and weed killers. The safest way to control pests and protect yourself from these hazardous chemicals is to avoid them at all costs and replace them with natural alternatives such as our home-made Ant spray.

Food

The Environmental Protection Agency’s so-called “tolerance levels” for pesticides are good for the agriculture industry, but not so good for humans. That’s right – despite growing research showing that pesticides can be harmful at very low doses, the EPA still allows pesticides to be sprayed on our fruits and vegetables and we are told they are safe to consume!

Hazardous pesticides such as; chlorpyrifos have been linked to brain and nervous system damage in children, as well as other serious health issues – even in small doses. A child that eats just one peach or even a single strawberry with the legally allowable residues of chlorpyrifos would exceed the EPA’s own safe exposure level for this food alone. That is why EWG is teaming up with Friends of the Earth to urge the EPA to update its pesticide standards!

The current EPA pesticides tolerances are like having a 500 mph speed limit – if the rules of the road are so loose, it’s impossible to violate them. It is high time the EPA fulfilled its mission to protect human health by accounting for exposures to multiple pesticides on produce and limiting pesticide residues on food overall. Nearly 70 percent of conventional fruits and veggies test positive for at least one pesticide, even after they have been washed or peeled. The “Dirty Dozen“ list is produced by the the Environmental Working Group (EWG) and summarises the significant amount of pesticides used on consumable produce. The research also highlights The ‘Clean Fifteen’- which are the fruits and vegetables which contain the least amount of pesticide residue.

We urge you to take the time to explore the Shoppers Guide to Pesticides in Produce, showing the full list and charts of the “Clean Fifteen and Dirty Dozen” from the EWG 2017.

Environment

Pesticides can travel great distances through the environment. When sprayed on crops or in gardens, pesticides can be blown by the wind to other areas. Research has shown, that over 95% of herbicides and over 98% of insecticides do not reach the targeted pest. This is because pesticides are applied over large tracts of land and carried away by wind and water runoff. The environment includes all of the living and non-living things that surround us, including the air, water, plants, soil and wildlife.

So please think twice before reaching for that can of pesticide or insect repellant!

Recycling Ideas that are totally genius

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“THE GREATEST THREAT TO OUR PLANET IS THE BELIEF THAT SOMEONE ELSE WILL SAVE IT”!

Recycling is one of the best ways for you to have a positive impact on the world in which we live. Recycling is important to both the natural environment, wildlife and of course mankind. We must however act quickly as the amount of waste we create is increasing constantly due to:

• Increasing wealth which means that people are buying more products and ultimately creating more waste.
• Our ever expanding population creating more waste.
• New packaging and technological products being developed, many containing materials that are not biodegradable.
• New lifestyle changes, such as eating fast food, which adds to our mounting waste problem.

Environmental Importance
Recycling is a necessity, as waste has a huge negative impact on the natural environment.
• Harmful chemicals and greenhouse gasses are released from rubbish in landfill sites. Recycling helps to reduce the pollution caused by waste.
• Habitat destruction and global warming are some the affects caused by deforestation. Recycling reduces the need for raw materials so that the rainforests can be preserved.
• Huge amounts of energy are used when making products from raw materials. Recycling requires much less energy and therefore helps to preserve natural resources.

Importance To People
Recycling is essential to cities around the world and to the people living in them.
• No space for waste. Our landfill sites are filling up fast.
• Reduce financial expenditure in the economy. Making products from raw materials costs much more than if they were made from recycled products.
• Preserve natural resources for future generations. Recycling reduces the need for raw materials; it also uses less energy, therefore preserving natural resources for the future.

Learning to recycle and waste less is therefore vitally important to maintain the future health of our planet. If you care, like we do about the environment, then there are plenty of effortless ways you can help out simply by recycling everyday items. Always remember to Reduce, Reuse and Recycle your waste. It is much better to Reduce waste in the first place as then there is less to deal with. Reusing items is the second best option as it saves you buying new things. After you have reduced and reused as much as you can, then it is time to Recycle. The last thing that should cross your mind is to throw it in the bin! Here are some of our favourite ideas to recycle in a natural and clever way:

Save Energy & reuse old light bulbs:
Here is a clever way to reuse those old incandescent lightbulbs as you switch to newer, more eco-friendly models, try turning the old ones into a beautiful way to enjoy the beauty of nature right in your own home. This DIY tip is very simple, but it requires working with glass so you definitely need to be careful! Never use florescent bulbs because parts of the inside can be toxic.

                               

Recycle your clothes:

Turning your jeans into a pair of shorts is probably the easiest way to repurpose a pair of jeans. Even if you don’t sew, you can make long jeans into shorts. Or even better: Make your own pattern and create a pillow or pet bed using just about any piece of clothing you don’t use.

                                       

Re-use coffee grounds in the garden:
Fresh coffee grounds are acidic, whereas used coffee grounds are neutral. To use coffee grounds as fertiliser, work the coffee grounds into the soil around your plants. Old coffee grounds are one of the best ways to add nitrogen to your compost pile, which is often a lacking element in urban or suburban composting.
Earthworms enjoy eating coffee grounds and find them a great food source. As a result they will help to condition and open up the soil, pulling the grounds deeply down through it.
Clever Storage Containers: 
Glass jars or take-away cartons make perfect storage containers for cake decorations, leaf teas, buttons and many other household items!

Re-use Old Newspapers:

Make your own bespoke gift wrap! Wrap your presents in the pages from your local newspapers, magazines or comics. Your family and friends will love it!

“REMEMBER: REDUCE, REUSE, RECYCLE”!

Harmful chemicals in our every day drinking water

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IS IT SAVE TO DRINK TAP WATER IN AUSTRALIA?

Did you know that the water we presume is pure may actually contain a variety of poisons such as chlorine, chloramine, asbestos, pesticides, fluoride, copper, mercury, and lead.

Not all of their potential effects are known, but some of these chemicals have been linked to various medical conditions such as high cholesterol, obesity, hormone suppression and even cancer. Effects may not be noticeable immediately, but certain aspects, including premature puberty, could compound the potential risks. As a result of their pervasiveness, these hazardous chemicals eventually find their way into our water supply.  Strict water regulations are in place in Australia, with guidelines laid down by the National Health and Medical Research Council.  The water is firstly filtered and disinfected to ensure the safety of our Australian drinking water, using sufficient disinfectant to inhibit the re-growth of microorganisms as the water travels through the pipe system to your home.

Fact: The downside of inhibiting the growth of bacteria and micro-organisms to make our drinking water safe is actually having an adverse effect.

As many of the chemicals used in this procedure such as chlorine and fluoride are actually toxic.

How can you make your drinking water safer?

You might think bottled water is a better option than tap water. However, focusing on bottled water is far from ideal as plastic bottles can leach BPA’s and other toxic plastic chemicals into the water. You should also consider that the bottled water industry is not environmentally sustainable. The production and shipping of bottles uses up resources and contributes to pollution.

After researching various options we at Natures Army have come to the conclusion that investing in a high-quality home filter might be the most beneficial long-term solution. There are various types of water filters on the market. They range from the simple bench top style to the more sophisticated systems requiring special plumbing and electrical work. Usually, water filters with a faster water flow are more expensive, but there are also some great basic systems available.

Water is life and clean water means good health. So find out if you have any particular water issues in your area, and if so have your water quality tested immediately so that you can install the appropriate system and begin providing safe drinking water for you and your family.

Home-made Soy Candles

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 ‘A CANDLE LOSES NOTHING BY LIGHTING ANOTHER CANDLE”!

Scented candles are so beautiful and set the scene perfectly for a romantic evening dinner or just a relaxing night in with a bottle of wine and a movie. However not all candles are equal and
although they may seem quite harmless scented candles are a huge source of indoor air pollution.

Many candles are manufactured from inexpensive paraffin wax, which creates highly toxic benzene and toluene once lit. These toxins are the same as those found in diesel fumes (not quite so romantic now)!

In addition to this, certain scented candles also include wicks that contain heavy metals such as lead, not to mention the addition of toxic synthetic fragrances. That is why even a few hours of burning these candles can be detrimental to our health.

So when buying candles in future always ensure you buy the non-toxic alternatives made from soy or beeswax that have been fragrance with organic essential oils, or better still try your hand at these delightful soy candles by the ‘Inquiring chef’. They are surprisingly easy, and the recipe can be multiplied to make as many candles as you wish.

INGREDIENTS
Chosen glass containers or jars
Candle wicks
double-sided tape
4 cups soy wax flakes
Essential Oils (4 drops per cup of melted wax), optional

INSTRUCTIONS
Set the glass containers on a clean, dry towel. Cut a piece of wick for
each container that is 4 inches longer than the container is tall. Place
a small piece of double-sided tape in the bottom centre of each
container. Tie a knot at the end of each wick. Press the knot firmly into
the double-sided tape to lightly secure. Leave the free end of the wick
hanging over the side of the container.

Fill a sauce pan with soy wax flakes. Place the pan over
medium heat. As the wax begins to melt, after about 5 minutes, gently
stir it until all of the wax becomes smooth and pourable. (Alternatively,
melt the wax in the microwave.)

Remove the wax from the heat and let it cool for about 5 minutes. Add
essential oils, if using, and stir to combine.

Pour wax into prepared jars, leaving 1 inch of space at the top of each
jar. Centre the free end of the wick in the wax. Twist the wick around a
pencil or wooden skewer. Let the wax dry for at least an hour. Cut the
wick short so that only about 1 inch remains.

Light, sit back and enjoy the joy of magical candlelight!

 

Nail It! The Very Real Dangers Of Nail Polish.

| Health & Beauty | Inside & Out

“THE DOSE MAKES THE POISON”!

We girls love a pamper, especially our manicures and pedicures.  Even from an early age there is something wonderful about pristine, brightly coloured pinkies and tootsies.  However damning evidence about our beloved nail varnish brands has been revealed,  so if you and your children are thinking of heading off to the nail bar for a weekly treat, please read the article below by the Environmental Working Group and make sure you know exactly what you are putting on your precious bodies!

A new study by researchers at EWG and Duke University finds that nail polishes can contain a suspected endocrine disruptor called triphenyl phopshte, or TPHP.

Researchers tested the urine of 26 women volunteers before and after they applied nail polish. They were looking for DPHP, a different chemical created by the body when it metabolizes TPHP. They detected much higher levels of DPHP after the polish was applied.

The scientists at Duke also tested 10 different nail polishes for TPHP itself and found that eight contained it. According to EWG’s Skin Deep database, polishes that list TPHP as an ingredient include such popular brands as Sally Hansen, Essie, OPI, Revlon and Wet N Wild.

TPHP might disrupt hormones in humans, and in animal studies has upset reproductive and development processes. Cosmetics companies use it because the chemical makes nail polish more flexible and durable. It’s also used in plastics manufacturing and as a common fire retardant in furniture cushions and some foam children’s products.

As a result, we are widely exposed to TPHP, but some research shows that women have higher levels in their bodies. This may be explained by the use of the chemical in personal care products for women, including nail polish.

The EWG and Duke study reveals how applying nail polish can increase your short-term exposure to TPHP. But regularly painting your nails could lead to long term exposure.

Parents, this is a particular concern for children and teenagers. For many youngsters, nail polish is the first introduction to cosmetics. But before and during puberty, they’re especially vulnerable to hormone disruptors. Before applying another coat, try these tips for healthy nail polish use in your family:

Use less. Paint only your fingers or toes, not both – or better yet, skip the polish and buff your nails to a natural shine.

Read labels. Look for red-flag ingredients on the label or check products in EWG’s Skin Deep database. Of the more than 3,000 nail polishes in Skin Deep, 49 percent list TPHP among ingredients. Also avoid products that contain toluene, formaldehyde or dibutyl phthalate.

Talk to your children about the potential dangers. If your children wear nail polish, talk to them about smart choices.

Limit use – say, only during sandal season – and help them pick water based alternatives and polishes that are free of harmful chemicals. Remind them not to chew polish off their nails.

Do it yourself.  The air in nail polish salons can be hazardous to both customers and workers. Avoid them, and never take your children to the salon.

Don’t inhale. That strong, recognizable nail polish smell can be a sign of airborne toxic chemicals. Always apply nail polish in a well-ventilated room.

9 SAFER BRANDS OF NAIL POLISH BY ECO WATCH

Many of these brands still use other chemicals, so be sure to double-check the ingredients for others that cause you concern. Whether you already have the best of the best when it comes to natural cosmetics or you’re just starting to green up your shelves, we’ve rounded up some of the best brands that have dedicated themselves to more natural nail care, so your next manicure can be headache- and toxin-free.

1. Zoya. Created by Zoya and Michael Reyzis of Art of Beauty, Zoya nail polish revolutionized the nail industry when it began making long-lasting, toxin-free polish. Eliminating toluene, camphor, formaldehyde, formaldehyde resin and DBP from its polishes, Zoya has quickly become one of the most popular 5-free nail polish brands out there. With new colors released each season, you’ll be sure to find the perfect shade for every occasion.

2. Suncoat. Since 2001, Suncoat has been crafting nail polishes with a water base and no toxins. Rather than replacing known toxins with other chemicals, a common practice among nail polish makers, Suncoat uses water. With mineral pigments and natural ingredients to boot, who can complain? Check out their peelable nail polish (no remover needed!) and nail art for an all-natural manicure that will have everyone staring.

3. Piggy Paint. Founder Melanie Hurley was horrified when she saw what the nail polish she was putting on her children’s nails did to a styrofoam plate. She dedicated herself to making a water-based, non-flammable, non-toxic nail polish that has an almost unnoticeable odor. The vibrant colors of this hypoallergenic and cruelty-free lacquer make Piggy Paint the perfect option for fun-loving kids of any age.

4. Honeybee Gardens. Look at the ingredients of Honeybee Gardens’ nail polish and you’re bound to let out a breath you didn’t know you’d been holding. This polish uses a special, water-based formula that’s 3-free, nearly odorless and free of FD&C colors (synthetic food dyes that can be used in food, drink and cosmetics). With 25 colors including the striking blue “Oasis,” deep black “Abyss” and fiery red “Burlesque,” finding one to match your personality should be easy (but picking only one may not be).

5. RGB. Like Zoya, this luxury eco-minded nail polish is 5-free, plus all of RGB’s products are cruelty-free, vegan and made in the U.S. With a wide array of colors available, there’s something for every green-ista in this collection. Although it’s on the pricier side, knowing that your product is helping the Earth and your nails is well worth it.

6. Sheswai. Three-free and eco-chic, Sheswai nail polish has succeeded in creating a brand that appreciates natural glamour. If the names of the colors aren’t enough to grab you (think “yowza”), Sheswai uses sustainably harvested wood as an alternative to the typical plastic cap. No products are tested on animals and a portion of the profits are donated to organizations dedicated to sustainability, such as the Nature Conservancy and World Wildlife Foundation. A product that does good and makes you look good? Sign us up!

7. LVX. Similar to RGB, LVX (Latin for “light”) is 5-free, vegan, cruelty-free and produced in the U.S. Co-founder Branka Tomic has a love for high fashion that translates into the sleek, high quality hues you’ll find on their website. LVX polishes don’t come cheap, but if you’ve been searching for the perfect combination of luxury and eco-friendly, this is the nail polish to try.

8. 100% Pure. This ten-free formula does NOT contain any of the common toxins found in other nail polishes, including formaldehyde, toluene, DBP, camphor, formaldehyde resin, xylene, parabens, fragrances, phthalates, or animal ingredients.

9. SIENNA BYRON BAY.  Produces premium quality, non toxic nail polish in Byron Bay, Australia.7 free and contains no Formaldehyde, toluene, DBP, formaldehyde resin, synthetic camphor, xylene, tosylamide, benzophenone-1, animal parts or any other nasties. Vegan and Cruelty Free.

An added bonus is they have replaced the usual plastic lids with signature wooden caps made from local non-native sustainable timber. All caps are environmentally friendly and organic. A win win in my book.

Park Life – How Safe Are Our Children?

| Inside & Out

PROTECT YOUR CHILDREN FROM PESTICIDES

It is difficult to comprehend that local councils across Australia and other countries are still insistent on continuing the use of the weed killer glyphosate in children’s parks, playgrounds, daycare centres, schools and sports fields, despite a World Health Organisation warning that the chemical is carcinogenic and probably causes cancer.

These are all places we happily send our children off to each day, with the peace of mind that they are free to enjoy life, play, learn, thrive, and grow in total safety. However the continual and persistent spraying of poisonous pesticides, in and around our young ones environments can put our children in the firing line, by exposing them to some extremely dangerous chemicals, just when their developing bodies are at their most vulnerable.

Spray from pesticides can be carried by the wind, entering class rooms and settling on desks, books, counters and walls. Children and teachers then become susceptible to breathing in polluted air and touching contaminated surfaces, unknowingly exposing themselves to chemical residues.

Glyphosate was originally trade marked as “Roundup” and is commonly used by households, farms and local councils.

Last year, the World Health Organisation’s International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) upgraded its assessment of the common herbicide from “possibly” to “probably carcinogenic to humans.

New South Wales insurance body “State Cover” has warned local councils to investigate other options to control weeds. Urging them to take a more vigilant approach, and fully explore their use of glyphosate and other hazardous chemicals utilised for weed control.

Public safety lawyers are also warning local councils, that future claims could be held against them by council workers, should they developed significant health complications as a result of handling the product.

In the past we have simply ignored the signs of products we were warned could prove dangerous to our health, such as asbestos, and years later thousands of victims have potentially made a claim for their pain and suffering.

Several councils around the country have been trialling alternative methods of killing weeds and have found that steam treatment has proved to be more effective than herbicides. However it is a slightly more expensive method than pesticide. That said, you can not put a price on your children’s health, and as a society, I don’t think we have a choice to ignore this danger any longer!

Parents, communities and organisations are now striking out and finding ways to make schools safer for growing children. Progress includes pesticide use reduction in school buildings, buffer zones to protect children from spraying in nearby fields, and support for safer pest control methods in and near schools and playgrounds. So be aware of the dangers and don’t be afraid to ask your local council, schools and daycare centres exactly what there policies are on weed control, what they use and when they are due to spray!

Educate yourself against these dangers so that in turn you can protect your children from these harmful chemicals.

 

Ring In The Change!

| Inside & Out

A HAPPY HEALTHY NEW YEAR TO YOU ALL!

GREEN IS THE NEW BLACK!

When it comes to New Year’s resolutions, I am sure many of you, like me are no stranger to them.Each year we reflect on our lives, the highs, the lows, the celebrations, collaborations, comisorations, and with good intentions and hand on our hearts, we embark on the decision to make a change to improve our future for the better, in some way, shape or form. Be it a detox, healthier eating, more exercise, more rest, more time with the children. The list is endless. However as we all know most of our resolutions end in failure, as they are taken on all too lightly!

The success to any change is to firstly acknowledge that there is an actual need for change.We all strive to be the best versions of ourselves, therefore numerous resolutions are focused around health and fitness, new diets and new exercise regimes etc. as we become more aware of the importance of healthy eating and regular exercise. Yet the true path to overall health and wellbeing is not through food and exercise alone.There is an extremely important factor that many people are missing out on, and that it is the vast array of noxious concoctions we unwittingly spray on our bodies and around our homes.

We simply assume that conventional cleaning formulas, make up, hair, body, baby, beauty and personal hygiene products are safe, and why do we do this? because we are told so by global marketing corporations who’s main concern is how much money they turn over each year and not our health!  The real truth is that many of the popular and well loved solutions under your kitchen sink and in your bathroom cabinets are actually dangerously toxic, and pose a hazard to you and your families health.

So let this years resolution be to detox your home!!

To avoid failure, begin slowly by replacing one product at a time. I know that chemical free substitutes seem to be more expensive than conventional options, but remember, you do not need all of the products you have been programmed to believe you do and all of these items can be made quite cheaply and effortlessly at home.

I would start with cleaning products, as most conventional solutions are labelled with the words POISON, TOXIC, HAZARDOUS, HARMFUL, CORROSIVE, which is a good indication of the level of harm they present to your home, family and pets. 

All that is needed to commence your green cleaning routine is a good multi surface cleaner.  Do not be fooled, this will clean the kitchen, shower and bathroom. A glass cleaner for windows, mirrors, chrome and shower doors, a floor cleaner and a good scrubbing paste for toilets, grout and engrained grease and grime. If you do not want to make your own formulas or feel you really do not have the time or inclination, then ensure you purchase 100% non toxic solutions.

Just as important as the products are good cloths, always buy the best you can afford and choose the microfibre option. Eventually you will have replaced all of your regular cleaning products with natural and non toxic alternatives.

Simply move ahead slowlyl when making these lifestyle adjustments, keeping in mind, which changes are the most important to you, and which items you are using the most. Continue to add and replace your conventional commodities with safer alternatives, as and when you can, being sure to dispose of chemicals responsibly.

It is our mission at Natures Army to teach people about the hidden dangers within their homes and environments, to inspire them to want to make a change, and to empower them to believe they can.

Begin 2017 by ringing in the change and making a resolution to detox your homes, ensuring they are safer, cleaner and healthier for everyone who lives in them.  After all our homes should be our sanctuary, a place to kick back, relax, and rewind, a place where we have total peace of mind that we feel safe and secure.

A Happy & Healthy New Year to you all.

 

“Getting Fruity”!

| Homemade Cleaning Recipes & Tips | Inside & Out

NATURAL WAXLESS DIY CITRUS PEEL CANDLES

We all love the romantic, soft warm glow of candles..However many regular scented candles include poisonus synthetic fragrances and dyes to make them smell and look attractive.

Even more disturbing they are manufactured from parrafin wax, that contains toluene and benzene (both known carcinogens) Once lit however, the seemingly harmless flickering candles begin to emit highly toxic fumes, similar to diesel fumes. These candles are considered a large source of indoor air pollution and can affect the respiratory system.
A good alternative is to buy natural beeswax candles, either unscented or fragranced with organic essential oiorange-candlels..Or even better try these adorable little waxless citrus candles for change.Yes, you really can craft a beautifuly fragrant candle out of the shell of a fresh piece of fruit and a little olive oil.They are super easy to make, cost pennies, only use natural organic ingredients found in your kitchen and are much healthier and environmentally friendly than most shop bought candles.

These rustic and homey candles are simply beautiful and the subtle burnt citrus aroma smells amazing. They are great to use for outdoor garden parties or a cozy dinner party.

So, lets get started! Grab a piece of your favourite citrus fruit and start creating your own citrus candles, you can use orange, grapefruit, lemon or lime or a mixture if you like.

YOU WILL NEED

Chosen citrus fruit
Organic Olive Oil
Saucer, bowl, glass or jar to stand your candle on
Lighter/Matches

METHOD

Place your chosen citrus fruit on a cutting board and cut it in half through the middle. The top half of the fruit will be used to make the bowl of the candle. Set aside the bottom half of the fruit for later use.
Using your thumb, gently separate the segments of fruit from the peel. Being very careful to leave the centre stem intact, lift out the fruit segments and put them in a bowl for a healthy snack, or wrap them up and put them in the fridge for later.You will be left with a beautiful and leak-proof citrus peel bowl which has it’s own natural “wick” extending upwards from the centre.

fruit-candles-feature

Fill the bowl of the citrus fruit three-quarters full with cooking oil, then
using a teaspoon, drizzle the oil over the wick until it is thoroughly soaked. Let the candle sit for 30 minutes to soak in the oil before lighting.

Voila thats it! It couldn’t get any simpler than that.

If you accidentally remove the centre white stem, grab another piece of fruit and try again! If you are planning on making a lot of these decorative and rustic homemade candles, you may want to serve a fruit salad for dinner or make a jug of freshly squeezed juice for breakfast.

Now all you need to do is light your all natural candles, sit back and enjoy the zesty aromatic fruity scents as they fill your home with their zingy fresh aromas and dazzle your friends and family with your crafty ingenuity. I often like to use the bottom half of the citrus fruit for a lid. This can be done by taking the part of the fruit that you set a side and simply hollowing out the shell using a spoon and then cut your chosen  design into the bottocandlem of the hollowed out cup with a knife. You can get as creative as you like with the lids and even use mini cookie cutters to produce stars and hearts etc.If your candle does not sit level, use a small piece of blue tac or modelling clay hidden underneath the bowl to prop it up. Balance bumpy and uneven lemons and limes on the rims of small glasses or jars.

NOTE: You can also enhance the refreshing and natural smell of the candles by adding a few drops of citrus scented essential oils. Mix and match different oils to create a scent that is unique to your preferences. I love the calming and floral scent of lavender. It smells absolutely amazing blended with a few drops of orange essential oil.

Enjoy getting fruity in the kitchen, who knows what might happen! xx