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Conventional deodorants are anti-perspirants. They often contain aluminium. They stop you from sweating, by way of a plug. Waste and toxins thus remain in your body. They may impact on body temperature.

Natural deodorants are not anti-perspirants. They will not stop you sweating, which is good. Sweating is your body’s natural process.

When you stop using anti-perspirant- expect to sweat. Sweat does not smell. It is the bacteria which grows on it that smells.

As quickly as you start to sweat however, you sweat less and smell less.

I recommend that after you stop using an antiperspirant you try and wait a day or so (more if you can) before starting with your natural deodorant. This is to allow you body to release as many toxins as possible. Obviously wash daily, twice a day, if possible, with a natural soap.

Then continue to wash daily and introduce your new natural deodorant. Avoid applying immediately after shaving, maybe shave the night before.

Wash / reapply throughout the day if you need to during the transition period.

It may take 3 to 4 weeks to transition fully, but be patient, once you have transitioned you will not need anti-perspirants again (except maybe for that silk dress/shirt on holiday)

In no time at all you will be sweating naturally but less than at first and remember that our deodorant contains arrowroot and clay to absorb moisture and aroma reducing oils.

When swapping between other “natural” deodorants be sure to check they don’t contain water (which means they will have to contain preservatives) and artificial fragrances.

As an Aromatherapist and Natural Skin Care Formulator, I am often asked this question. The simple answer is yes, but not for the reasons you might think.

What are the side effects of anti-perspirants?

Many of you will have read of the purported health risks of the aluminium in anti-perspirants. Do anti-perspirants cause cancer? Do anti-perspirants cause Alzheimer’s. Whilst I observe that these claims have been made, I also note that the claims/ data does merit much more extensive analysis.

My thoughts however are that, outside of these studies, if you can avoid putting aluminium into such a delicate and important area near the breast and lymph nodes, then why wouldn’t you? You can choose instead to use products with soothing natural ingredients. This is the benefit of natural deodorants.

Do Natural Deodorants work?

Well natural deodorants will not stop you sweating, so for me personally there is a time and a place for them. I would not for example wear them for a July wedding in Greece with a silk dress, but for everyday occasions, if you think about it, why would I not want to sweat toxins out? Why would I not want to perspire, isn’t that how nature designed your body to work?

There is of course the matter of not wanting to smell. Remember it is not sweat which smell but bacteria  I have found that natural deodorants are effective when combined with washing every morning with a natural soap, drying the underarm and then applying. Even better make this routine a simple yet effective daily self-care ceremony for body and mind. You time.

I did find that when I stopped using anti persirants I did feel more sweaty for a few weeks - probably beacuse I had not been sweating for years.

After a few weeks however this reduced ,and I do not feel that I sweat as much as I did on those days when I forgot to apply an anti persirant. I feel that my body has adapted and returned to its natural rhythm.

What are Natural Deodorants made of?

Why are natural deodorants better? Examples of the types of ingredients you might find in natural deodorants are:

• Shea/Cocoa/Mango butter to soften and smooth.
• Plant oils such as coconut oil to nourish.
• Natural starch to absorb moisture.
• Clay to cleanse and absorb moisture.
• Sodium bicarbonate/ Magnesium hydroxide to deodorise.
• Essential oils which, with the right choice, can be deodorising, anti-bacterial and fragrant. Dependant on the mix, they might be uplifting, invigorating, or relaxing.

Is Sodium Bicarbonate bad for you?

There has been some controversy recently as to whether Sodium Bicarbonate is a safe ingredient in natural deodorants. Despite its scary name however, Sodium Bicarbonate is simply a natural salt. Some people have found that it does irritate them. Like anything, it does need to be introduced slowly. I have also found that there may be an overlap between the toxins which have previously been kept in by anti-perspirants coming out and these reacting with the Sodium Bicarbonate. This is why I would recommend going cold turkey (or hot turkey as the case may be!) for a couple of days when switching from traditional to natural.

If Sodium Bicarbonate does not agree with you then an alternative ingredient included in some natural deodorants is Magnesium Hydroxide,

You can choose between cream in pots which you put on with your finger or harder sticks in tubes. It really comes down to preference. I favour a stick.

My preferred products to date have been:

Your Nature- Stick

Green woman- Cream

Go experiment!

Watch this space for Zelenci Natural Deodorant coming soon.

Let's firstly define what we mean by Mineral v Chemical. Traditional Chemical sunscreens work by penetrating the top layer of skin and absorbing the harmful UV Ray's before they can damage the skin. Mineral sunscreens, also known as physical sunscreens, form a barrier on the skin to reflect the rays away from the skin. Both should protect against UVA and UVB (Always check the labelling for broad spectrum or full spectrum protection).

The active ingredients in Mineral sunscreens are Zinc Oxide and Titanium dioxide

Chemical sunscreen ingredients include oxybenzone, avobenzone, octisalate, octocrylene, homosalate and octinoxate

IMPORTANT Do not buy from those who advocate Plant based/carrier oils having sunscreen properties. They do not have sufficient ingredients to protect you. All UK sunscreens must pass vigorous testing far beyond standard cosmetic testing.

Mineral sunscreens

Pros

• Generally include fewer synthetic chemicals
• May be a more suitable choice for those who are pregnant or for small children
• Often enhanced with nutritious oils, antioxidants and botanicals
• Less likely to irritate sensitive skin
• Should be effective immediately.
• Some can be reapplied over make up

Cons

• Can be thick and difficult to rub in
• Can leave a white residue on skin
• Generally more expensive
• More difficult to source
• Just because they are mineral does not mean that they will not contain other chemicals/ fewer natural ingredients. Always check the ingredient lis

Chemical sunscreens

Pros

• Often thinner and easier to apply
• Cheaper
• Easy to source- they can be bought everwhere!

Cons

• Synthetic ingredients
• Can aggravate sensitive or acne prone skin
• You should wait for the screen to be absorbed before going out in the sun
• More likely to contain other less natural ingredients and nutritious oils and botanicals

Below are some examples of providers who provide Mineral sunscreens. Please note that Zelenci is not collaborating with any of these providers and cannot endorse the products. We have simply sourced mineral options for you to explore yourself.

Happy Sunshine!

Providers who market Mineral sunscreens ( tradionally Natural/ Eco friendly/ Vegan/ Organic providers )

Tropic

Natural skincare | Cruelty Free Makeup | Vegan skincare – Tropic Skincare

Odylique

Odylique UK | Organic Skincare, Haircare & Cosmetics

Holland and Barrett

Holland & Barrett - The UK's Leading Health & Wellbeing Store (hollandandbarrett.com)

Pai

Pai Skincare | Certified Organic Skincare for Sensitive Skin

Green People

Natural Skincare | Natural & Organic Skin Care Products | Green People UK

Coming soon.

In the UK 75% of children spend less time outdoors than prisoners.

Those of us living in cities are outside for only 1-5% of our time.

We have all no doubt inherently felt it  , why else would we take flowers to those who are sick , but the science now supports it, nature is good for us.

Urban areas overwork the sympathetic nervous system , so that part of the body which responds to danger or stressful situations. Nature impacts the parasympathetic system , so the part of the body responsible for rest and calm. It encourages being in the moment. It increases vigour and energy,

Nature can also boost our immune system. A boost which is so vital in present times.

Studies on Ecotherapy have found that the effects are more profound if we actively engage with nature , using our five senses . Some examples of this are, smelling the earth after rain , stopping to look at the colours of the leaves or listening out for the birdsong.

How then ,in our busy lives , can we get more nature? Here are some quick wins;

• Salvage a corner of the garden and vow to spend 1 hour of working from home out there each day
• Grow something , even if it is just on your windowsill. Herbs are a good option
• Breakfast or lunch in the woods. Pack up a picnique of your favourite things
• Organise a nature trail for the children
• Volunteer for conservation work or a city garden project
• Choose to walk through a tree lined avenue or a park on your way somewhere
• Apply a natural product and allow its aroma to conjure up feelings of goodness
• Challenge yourself to learn about one new tree or bird a day on your walks. There are some fabulous free apps and resources
• Collect sea shells at the beach
• Allow yourself the opportunity of 5 minutes of just looking at the sky in the day or the stars at night

Go on then , get out there.......

"Leave the roads. Take the trails" Pythagoras

Aromatherapy is an holistic therapy which uses essential oils from plants and trees to promote the health of body and mind. It is ancient in origin but  to continues enjoy a very modern presence.

Essentail oils are highly concentrated extracts from various parts of aromatic plants and trees. The chemistry is complex.

Essentail oils can hold range of properties such as being antiseptic , antibacterial, antimicrobial , sedative , analgesic and anti depressant.

Oils can enter the body via inhalation or through the skin so via skincare and massage ( a bath oil ticks both boxes ! ) We do not ever advocate digestion.

Given their potency it is important that you are guided by a suitably qualified Aromatherapist in their use. All Zelenci products have been formulated by our founder who is a qualified Aromatherapist and is a member of the Association of Professional Aromatherapists.

Did you know that the Egyptians used Essential oils to help preserve the Eyptian mummies? When Tutenkhamun's tomb was opened in 1922 ,an Archaeologist discovered a pot containing Frankincense inside.

In medieval times , when the plague swept the world , bonfires of aromatic woods would be lit in the streets to purify the air. Doctors often carried a nosebag of herbs and oils such as cinnamon and cloves to kill germs

In 1937 Frenchan Gattefosse discovered the analgesic and healing properties of Lavender  when , working in his Laboratory he plunged his hand into the nearest liquid when he burnt himself. This was Lavender. The Lavender assisted with the pain and the burn healed swiftly with little scarring.

In the 1920's two Italian Doctors demonstrated the psychotherapeutic effects of smelling essential oils, these having an enormous influence on the nervous system. In this instance it was the locally grown essential oils such as bergamot ,and orange,

An estimated 40 per cent of all modern pharmacuetical drugs originate from plants or herbs or are the inspiration for chemical copies.

Aspirin was originally derived from the bark of the willow tree ( now it is artificially made ).

Foxgloves contain the heart tranquilliser Digitalis.

Aromotherapy is now frequently employed in labour wards ,  for palliative care of Cancer patients and in hopices. It it also utilsed in memory workshops in Care homes.

These precious liquids are in harmony with planet and people alike. They offer protection , healing and pleasure without pollutiing either ourselves or the environment.

Take a look at our aromatherapy products.

Rose

A warm , deep  , richly floral and elegant aroma reminiscent of nightime and beauty.

On the skin Rose Damascena flower oil is antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and improves skin tone

For the mind and body it is it is an antidepressant/ relaxant  . It aids sleep.

Rose Geranium

Similar to rose but with a herby over tone

On the skin it is a great balancer. It reduces oil, where necessary, and adds hydration where appropriate. It is antibacteriabl, antimicrobial, anti inflammatory.  It aids Cell regeneration,  is tightening and tones. It can assist with water retention and Cellulite.

For the mind and body it is an antidepressant/ relaxant and and a hormone balancer .

Frankincense

An earthy and spiced aroma.

Frankincense regenerates and restores skin tone. It eases the appearance of wrinkles. It  is is an = anti oxidant, antinflammatory and antimicrobial.

For the mind and body Frankincense slows down breathing and quietens the mind. This is why it makes such a good night time oil.  It assists mindfulness . Frankincense has been known to enhance spirituality

Neroli Essential oil.

Neroli is Orange blossom oil.

This luxurious and decadent oil is named after the 17^th Century Princess of Orsini of Nerola , Italy. Princess Nerola liked to scent her gloves and bathwater with Orange Blossom oil.

Neroli has a fresher smell than Orange with green facets , crisp  , with a floral side.

Neroli in skincare is a cell regenerator and is helpful for fine lines ,  wrinkles and skin elasticity.

For the mind , Neroli promotes happiness. It is reminiscent of warm sunny summer days and Mediterranean gardens

Perfect for putting you in a good place on dark winter mornings !

It is a calming oil, so can assist those suffering with stress and anxiety.

Plant "base" oils , or Carrier oils  as they have traditionally been referred to, are the unsung heros of Aromatherapy and natural skincare. They are best known as the oils which Massage Therapists and Aromatherapists use to " carry " the essential oils into the skin. The oil which has typically been used is grapeseed , which actually has significantly fewer nutrients and benefits than many of the other oils .

To simply refer to these beautiful oils as "carrier oils" and to limit the use to those oils such as grapseed is a tragedy.

The oils are fascinating in their own right, exotic  and varied. Each oil has its own spectaular set of nutrients and benefits such as soothing, nourishing or healing qualities. These mirror and surpass qualities of many synthetic chemical ingredients.

Emotionally the oils also enable you to connect to nature with all the mental profit that this provides.  Here are a selection of some of the plant based oils which we use in our products.

Apricot oil

A light thin and fresh oil. Skin softening and smoothing. Nourishing and revitalizing.  Antioxidant. Apricot oil supports the protective barrier function of the skin

Brimming with vitamins such as

Vitamins A , B1 , B2 , B6 , *B17 ( the  richest plant on earth for B17 ,  E

Traditionally cultivated in Greece , Persia ,Egypt and Spain

*B17 is heralded as a cancer preventive plant, although not scientifically proven

Macadamia nut oil

Extremely softening, smoothing , deeply moisturising and nourishing. Soothing.

One of the few oils rich in Palmitolic acide which protects from damage and oxidation.  Palmitolic acid decreases with age. It is thus a means of protecting the skin in later years.  Macadamia aids the skin barrier to retain moisture and regenerate cells. The following vitamins can be found in abundance;

Vitamin A

Vitamin B1

Vitmain B2

Vitamin B6

Vitamin C

Vitamin E

Requires a sub tropical climate with low humidity. Originally from Australia and then Hawaii

Argan oil

Smoothing and softening . Antioxidant. Antinflammatory. Argan oil revitalizes saggy skin, it is anti aging, it reduces the appearance  of fine lines and reduces wrinkles. Its feminist…..All Argan oil today is produced by a women’s cooperative in Morocco

Packed with

Vitamin A

Vitamin B1

Vitamin B2

Vitamin B6

Vitamin c

Vitamin E ( very rich )

Rosehip seed oil

A perfect facial oil. Rosehip's vitamin A content increases elastin and promotes collagen. Vitamin C and E help delay the onset of ageing. Active in cell regeneration. Deep wrinkes , uv damage , dark spots and uneven pigmentation have been known to improve witH the use of Rosehip oil

Our Rosehip is harvested from the fruit and the seeds of French rose plants

Avocado Oil

Rich thick and luxurious.  Perfect for a decadent bath oil.  Healing Regenerating and protective. Deeply penetrating. Calming for the skin. Easily absorbed. Supports collagen structure. Bursting with vitamin A , B1 , B2 D and E. Our Avocado oil is produced in hot and colourful Mexico

Castor Seed oil

Rich and thick and used in our balms. Castor oil has magnificent cleansing properties it is antiseptic and antiviral. It is intensely moisturising and anti inflammatory. Castor oil penetatres deeply and helps the production of collagen and elastin.

Contains

Vitamin A ,B1 , B2 , B6 , Vitamin C and Vitamin E