Reasons to go organic! 

Organic food is on the rise, which sounds silly to say, because there was a time when organic food was just, well, food. Before the over use of pesticides, herbicides, fertilisers, antibiotics and growth hormones, food was grown and farmed with the help of some well seasoned manure, good soil, a few tricks of the trade and little else. 

Thankfully, due to food movements like Clean Eating and Raw Foodism, initiatives from the Soil Association and tv shows highlighting exactly what is in our food, there is an increasing awareness and popularity of the benefits of farming, buying and eating organic. The benefits not only have a positive impact on your health, but are better for wildlife, the global environment and ecosystem, our local soils, the nutritional value of what we eat, and of course, the taste! 

Check out below all the reasons going organic can benefit you, your health and the planet! 

You are what you eat

• Choosing organic is an easy way to avoid pesticides, herbicides and many additives and preservatives

• Organic standards prohibit GM crops and GM animal feed 

• Organic, free range farming bans the routine use of antibiotics and drugs on animals

Pesticides

• Organic food and farming uses virtually no pesticides

• Pesticides can remain in the food we eat after cooking and washing

• Pesticides can pollute water, the environment and the human body

• Weed killers are banned on organic farms

Nutrition

• Organic farming affects the quality of the food we eat

• There is a higher level of Omega 3 in organic milk and meat due to grass fed animals

Animal Welfare

• Organic farming has the highest standard of animal welfare - including free range, living conditions, food quality, transport and slaughter

• Animals are raised without the routine use of antibiotics 

• Animals are raised in conditions that suit their natural behaviour and are fed a mainly organic diet

Wildlife

• Intensive farming practices are responsible for the decline and possible extinction of wildlife species

• Fungicides and herbicides are damaging to wildlife

• Organic farmland supports more wildlife than non organic by producing less CO2 and dangerous waste 

• Organic farms are havens for wildlife and provide homes for bees, birds and butterflies. On average, plant, insect and bird life is 50% more abundant on organic farms

Environment and climate change

• Organic means working more with nature, not against it, minimising disruption to the natural environment

• Organic farming takes account of local and regional balances and encourages the use of on-site resources

• Organic farming enhances soil life, natural soil fertility and water quality

• Organic farming can help combat climate change and reduce pollution through its ban on chemical pesticides which release harmful greenhouse gases. Instead there is a reliance on healthy fertile soil and crop diversity

• If all UK farmland was converted to organic farming, at least 1.3 million tonnes of carbon would be taken up by the soil each year – the equivalent of taking nearly 1 million cars off the road

• If half of all farming in the European Union converted to organic by 2030, we could cut almost a quarter (23%) of the EU’s greenhouse gas emissions 

Soil

• Organic farms have healthier soils, building soil fertility naturally with the use of compost and clover

• Soils store more carbon than the atmosphere and all of the world’s plants and forests combined, which means that soil is one of our most important weapons in the fight against climate change

• It takes a hundred years for just one or two centimetres of topsoil to form, and soil that is lost to pollution or erosion will need hundreds or even thousands of years to recover on its own

• Over the last 40 years almost a third of the world’s arable soils have been lost to erosion or pollution

• Organic agriculture helps reduce our dependence on mined phosphate, a non-renewable resource that is becoming increasingly scarce and expensive

Superfood powders: How could they benefit you?

 With so many superfood products on the market today, it can be hard to know exactly what to buy and how it could benefit you. This brief guide will introduce you to some of the superfood powders supplied by Detox Trading, with handy information about their background, benefits and how best to use them.

Lucuma Powder

Lucuma powder (pronounced Loo-Ku-Ma) is sourced from farms across Peru, particularly in Pesco, central Peru. This product is made from a raw and nutrient dense fruit, and is so widely sought after due to its exotic and fragrant flavour, that it’s been named the ‘Gold of the Incas’. Just some of the benefits of Lucuma powder include its ability to improve metabolism, the maintenance of healthy teeth and bones, and it encourages consistent function of cell membranes. 

Lucuma powder has a beautifully rich and creamy texture, making it a great addition to your breakfast smoothie and porridge. It can also be added to deserts and ice-creams and can even be made into a fruit coulis. Within Peru, it is one of the most popular desert flavours.

 Maca Powder

 Maca powder was originally cultivated in Peru, and has been grown and used consistently by the native Incas for over 2000 years. The powder itself comes in three different varieties; Yellow, black and red, each offering some different benefits due to the nutrients in the pigment of the plants skin. This superfood powder holds a variety of nutrients, including key vitamins such as B1, B2, C and E. It is also a great source of vitamin C and calcium, whilst containing fatty acids, alkaloids and steroids that help with the general maintenance and well-being of you and your body. This product is suitable for vegetarians and vegans, is completely GMO free, and free of all allergens, meaning that it’s suitable for wide range of dietary requirements.

 Maca powder has a range of medicinal uses that could improve numerous aspects of your life, from chronic fatigue and a weak immune system, to hormone balance and sexual function. The powder can be combined with juices, smoothies or even in porridge and cereals, you could even try making a maca-chino. 

Moringa Leaf Powder

Moringa Leaf Powder is derived from the Moringa Oleifera tree in India, otherwise dubbed as the ‘Miracle of Moringa’. It is most commonly used for its medicinal purposes, and it's bright green colouring. The flavouring is often likened to spinach or asparagus. This superfood powder is an excellent source of fibre and proteins, containing vitamins A, E, B1, B2, B3, B12 and C, and minerals iron, calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, zinc and copper. This is your daily multivitamin in powder form! It also boasts an extremely long list of benefits that include metabolism maintenance, skin improvement, improved cardiovascular health and improved vision and muscle function. For a more comprehensive list, visit this page. 

Purple Corn Flour

Purple Corn Flour is unique variety of gluten-free flour, grown in the inter-Andean valleys of Lima, Ancash and Arequipa in Peru. The unique colouring of this flour has made it popular choice of dye and colourant in foods and drinks, and has been used by Native South Americans for centuries. It’s also a great replacement for wheat, corn and other flours, making it the perfect addition to cakes, breads, tortillas and even pancakes. This product is an antioxidant power house, due to its high levels of anthocyanins, which gives it the unique purple colouring. This powder can be used as an anti-inflammatory, and is also known to help lower blood pressure and maintain kidney health.

 Detox Trading is a family run businesses supplying premium, organic superfood products and powders to help improve the wellbeing of your body. Visit our website for further information about the products we stock.

Avoid the Christmas Slump and treat your body well this festive season.

Christmas is the time for great company, delicious food, and a magical time for all. But it won’t be long before it begins to take its toll. Soon comes the Christmas Slump - that groggy feeling caused by over-eating and an un-appreciation for the needs of your body. Luckily, we’ve taken a little time to think of some simple solutions to ensure that the Christmas Slump doesn’t spoil your festive season.

Everything in Moderation

Eating and drinking is almost unavoidable this time of year, and why not indulge a little? The important thing to remember is that moderation is key - something that we hear quite a lot when it comes to food and drink. Feel free to enjoy the foods you love, you deserve it after working so hard all year but consider taking a day or two, every now and again, to rest your system and prepare for the next day of merriment. If you can stick to the 80%-20% rule that's great (80% nourishing, 20% naughty), but if not just be aware of what you are consuming and how these foods can effect you. 

1 For 1

The 1 for 1 rule is very simple, if you decide to have a few cheeky tipples this season make sure that for every alcoholic beverage that you have, you also finish a glass of water immediately after. This is a good way to ensure that you stay refreshed and hydrated, helping you to avoid the horrendous Christmas hangover that we all know too well. Increased water intake will help to aid digestion, improve kidney and liver function, and keep your skin looking great throughout the winter season.

Flush out your system

Christmas is notorious for its heavy comfort food. There’s no denying that it all tastes amazing, but after a while, it can all get a bit much for your body. It’s important to clear your system of all the toxins that these foods and drinks bring with them, to keep you feeling fresh and ready to take on the festivities.

Foods high in fibre, Vitamin C, and antioxidants are known for their digestive properties. If you’re looking for an alternative solution, however, there are a number of herbal teas that offer fantastic detoxing benefits, such as our deliciously spiced Purifying Tea.

Invest in Quality Skincare

The skin is the largest organ in the body, which is why it’s just as important to look after it this winter as anything else in your body. We’ve already suggested that you increase your water intake - trust us, your skin will be glowing - but it’s also worth investing in some natural and organic skincare products to see you through the season.

The cold weather, combined with the increased food intake will have a noticeable impact on your skin. Having an effective skincare regime filled with good quality products will ensure that your skin remains smooth, even, and blemish free.

Tip: Try using coconut oil as a moisturiser, it's nourishing and completely natural. For a fantastic face mask give one of our clays a go, clay face masks can helps clear pores, reduce redness and brighten complexion. 

Start your day with a Superfood Smoothie

The benefits of a superfood smoothie every morning are undeniable. You have a valuable source of vitamins and minerals, and your system will thank you for starting the day the nourishing way. With effective preparation, it doesn’t even need to be a chore. Plan your smoothies a week in advance if you can (not all schedules are flexible and we understand that), by pre-cutting your fruit and vegetables and freezing them in five separate bags (for five days worth of smoothies). When breakfast comes around, simply empty a freezer bag into your blender with a little nut milk, coconut water or organic juice, and you’re ready to go.

For an extra boost in the morning, why not add some flax seeds for added fibre, protein powder for an energy burst, or a specially selected superfood powder to maximise your vitamin and mineral intake.

Detox Trading offers a fantastic selection of organic superfoods to enhance your life. Visit our website to view our great range of products, and find out exactly how they could benefit you this festive season.

He Shou Wu: What can it do for you?

With a mysterious history as rich as the culture it derives from, He Shou Wu (pronounced he-show-woo) has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for over 3,000 years. Also known as Fo-Ti, this particular herb is considered to be the elixir of life in Asian herbalism, with properties that help to preserve stamina, vigour, and youth. He Shou Wu is specially prepared tuberous root of the Polygonum Multiflorumplant, found in the mountains of southern and central China. 

Legend suggests that a weak and frail man by the name of Neng Si would come to discover He Shou Wu after waking from a drunken sleep. He found entwined plant vines and decided to dig them up, and take them home. Following the advice of a passing hermit, Neng Si ground the root into a powder and ate some, only to find a few days later that he was beginning to feel stronger, and more energetic. In a matter of months, he would transform from a hapless, to virile and would even come to father a number of sons in the coming years. The herb had rejuvenated him, and it has been a highly-revered energising tonic ever since.  

Anti-ageing 

As the tale of Neng Si suggests, He Shou Wu is widely regaled for its anti-ageing benefits. It is not only-supposed to be of great use in maintaining vibrant looking hair, but it is also said to help strengthen the back and joints. He Shou Wu is also full of antioxidants that can also help to look after the eyes. 

Libido Booster  

These youthful properties go beyond physical appearance and mobility. Not only will this particular herb prove useful in maintaining a youthful and healthy sex drive, but it is also considered to be extremely useful in seeking to improve fertility when looking to conceive a child. 

Zinc and Iron supplement       

The high levels of zinc and iron in this herb make it an excellent cell producer, and it even stimulates blood-generating cells and improves circulation. It can be extremely difficult to maintain the necessary levels of these minerals, therefore to keep up with the levels that your body needs to run smoothly, the addition of He Shou Wu is absolutely essential. 

Rejuvenation of mind and body 

He Shou Wu is, above all else, an energising tonic in Asian herbalism, therefore it is a valuable dietary addition that could help to keep your energy levels up. In addition, it is said to have properties that help to reverse hair loss, and can help to protect and restore DNA, improve brain and liver function, and can help to boost the immune system. 

Calming 

For those who experience periods of high stress and anxiety, He Shou Wu has a number of calming properties, thanks to its natural balancing and muscle relaxant properties. The health and wellness benefits really do seem to be endless. 

How should you take it? 

Before it can be safely taken as a tonic herb, He Shou Wu needs to be properly prepared. At Detox Trading, our organic He Shou Wu is sliced and stewed in a black bean stew. The roots are then dried and ground in to a powder. Traditionally He Shou Wu is the ideal herb to be made as a hot tea, or can be simply mixed with cooler water. If you are interested in the hair growth properties, then creating a mixture with oil or water, then rubbing it directly in to the scalp could have a much more noticeable effect.  

Start with a small dose, no more than 1/4 teaspoon daily, and slowly work up to 1 teaspoon a day.   

As a family-run business, Detox Trading is dedicated to providing premium quality, organic superfoods, certified by the UK Soil Association. Visit our website for more information about the fantastic herb that is He Shou Wu, or view some of our other amazing organic powders and superfoods. 

8 Tips to help detox mind and body

Daily life takes its toll on our mind and body. With constant exposure to airborne pollutants and diets that are high in processed foods, it’s important to take some time to flush out those harmful toxins. To help reset our mind and body, here are a few tips for a full body detox.  

1.      Cut the sugar

I think it’s fair to say that we’ve all been guilty of eating too many foods that are high in sugar. If your diet consists of a lot of sugary foods, this could eventually lead to chronic fatigue and weight gain. High sugar intake increases your blood glucose levels, which in turn can make you hungry again quicker and in the long term cause problems with insulin production, leading to type 2 diabetes and other health problems. 

2.      Get moving 

Regular exercise improves blood circulation. The release of endorphins will help to improve your overall mood and reduce stress, anxiety, and tension. Your body will feel stronger, and you’ll feel more energised. It will even help improve your quality of sleep. 

3.      Drink more water 

It sounds simple but drinking more water is one of the key elements to good health and is essential to help detox both your body and mind. Obviously water is extremely hydrating but it also helps important minerals move freely in to the cells while also helping flush out toxins. Water can ease a headache, relieve fatigue, improve skin, aids weight loss and improves energy levels. 8 glasses or 2 litres is an ideal daily amount, try adding a slice of lemon, some fresh cucumber or mint to mix up the flavour. 

4.      Sweat it out 

Traditional detoxing solutions can require some lifestyle adjustment, but for something a little simpler, taking a steam could be an excellent and relaxing solution. Regular trips to the sauna will help to flush out any toxins through your sweat. Always remember to effectively rehydrate following a sauna session, as your body would have lost valuable liquids during the process.

5.      Treat yourself to a massage 

While using the sauna at your local spa, why not book yourself in for an exfoliating massage? Not only is this an indulgent and relaxing treat for yourself, but the therapist will also be tackling those toxins through the circulation and massage process. Again, ensure to hydrate after your massage to help flush out those harmful toxins.

6.      Meditate 

An effective detox isn’t just about the body, but also requires focus on your overall mental wellbeing. Meditation is an effective stress and anxiety buster. It will also help you to focus on the positive aspects of your life. Deep breathing will help to focus your mind and calm your body, encouraging an overall sense of wellness.

7.      Go fresh and organic 

Fresh and organic vegetables are rich in the vital nutrients that will help improve digestion. Consider starting your day with a vegetable-rich smoothie to help kick-start your system and prepare for the day.

Adjusting your diet also means eliminating harmful oils from your diet, including vegetable, peanut, and sunflower oil. There are plenty of good oils that can be used in cooking, but all in moderation. Try switching to coconut oil or ghee for a healthier alternative when cooking. 

8.      Boost our vitamin intake 

If your body is lacking in key vitamins and minerals you will likely feel sluggish, lethargic, and just not on top of your game. B Vitamins, Vitamin C and Vitamin E are all excellent to help a cleanse your system and improve your wellbeing. 

Filled with essential pre and probiotics for gut, liver, and digestive tract detox, the Detoxifying Superfood Blend available from Detox Trading is wonderfully cleansing and detoxifying. It’s also full of vital vitamins including A, B1, B2, B3, B6, and B12, and minerals such as potassium, iron and magnesium to help tackle harmful toxins and detox your system. 

Detox Trading supplies premium quality organic superfoods that are fully certified by the UK Soil Association. Visit our website for more information on the fantastic products that we supply.

The overwhelming health benefits of matcha

You would be forgiven for having little knowledge of what matcha actually is, for those who are not aware it is a popular, delicious and super healthy Japanese green tea. Matcha is special because it is grown in very specific conditions, it is shade-grown for the last weeks before harvest to harness the chlorophyll content and only the tips of the leaves are picked and dried for premium quality and taste. Matcha is an incredibly rich superfood with a wonderfully diverse range of surprising health benefits. By understanding how truly beneficial matcha can be for you, you will start to understand why there is an ever-growing trend towards people consuming more and more green tea; so here are the overwhelming benefits that matcha has to offer. 

High in green tea catechins

Catechins are molecules that have undergone a great deal of scrutiny and research, and have been found to help counteract the effects of free radicals. As well as having anti-arthritic, anti-ulcer and anti-inflammatory properties, it has also been linked to being effective in protecting against a number of diseases. 

Greater levels of concentration and focus

Within matcha also lies another wonderful amino acid, L-theanine. This is a natural way to boost your brain’s alpha waves which, in turn, increases the feel-good sensations in your brain and gives you that “Zen-like” feeling. For hundreds of years, Buddhists have used green tea as a way to better fuel and sustain their concentration levels through long hours of meditation and prayer.

An abundant source of antioxidants

If you’ve researched ways to boost your health, then it’s likely you’ve come across the benefits of increasing your uptake of natural antioxidants; such as those found in blueberries or avocados. In which case you will be happy to learn that matcha is the most densely packed source of antioxidants and contains 137 times more than it’s nearest alternative. Consuming matcha is the easiest way to access the benefits of more antioxidants which can help prevent diseases, give you healthier skin and boost your immune system.

Improved weight loss

Matcha itself contains almost zero calories but offers a fantastic source of long lasting natural energy. Which, in turn, means you can feel fuelled and energised for long periods of the day without the need to rely on sugary or caffinated alternatives. At the same time, matcha is unique in its ability to boost your metabolism, which can help burn more calories, improve sleep and maintain energy levels. These effects combined means you can workout for longer, rest better and burn off more calories, which is a tremendous natural weight loss solution. 

Access to chlorophyll

Chlorophyll is the substance found in plant leaves that you are most likely to be familiar with from your science lessons at school. However what your teachers probably didn’t tell you at school is that chlorophyll can have some surprising health benefits when consumed with a healthy diet. These include opening your detoxification pathways, a healthier liver and more stable blood glucose levels; which I'm sure you'll agree is a great combo of benefits from a substance you thought only belonged in a science lab.

Upon reading this, it’s likely you’re keen to start experiencing some of the wonderful and powerful benefits that come with drinking matcha tea. You can buy this superfood online by checking out our website Detox Trading. Consuming a cup of this a day is an easy and tasty way to give your body the health kick it needs. Of course, this should be consumed alongside a healthy diet and exercise in order to lead a truly healthy lifestyle, and if you require any alternative health foods then check out the rest of our site for our full range. 

How to add superfoods to your diet

Superfoods are a fantastic way to add rich, powerful nutrients to your diet and transform your health and wellbeing in the process. But what are the best ways to start to incorporate them into your food? Some might taste a little strong to your palette to begin with, so you may prefer to blend them with other tastes - at least until you adjust.

Superfoods in smoothies

Green juices and smoothies are perhaps the most common way to add superfoods to your diet. Try a green juice of spinach, apple, lime, avocado and kiwi with a spoon of spirulina or wheatgrass. If you are new to green juicing, try a 50/50 vegetable and fruit blend. As you become less reliant on sugar, decrease the amount of fruit and become more adventurous with your green vegetables - celery, cucumber, fennel, lettuce and parsley will all help to transport your superfoods to every cell in your body for a powerful cleansing and reinvigorating effect.

In soups

Try stirring our Vitality green superfood blend into a soup - broccoli and coconut is a great choice made with fresh vegetable broth for vital nutrients. Allow the soup to cool slightly before stirring in your superfood sprinkle with a spoonful of toasted nuts, a swirl of coconut cream or a dusting of nutritional yeast flakes.

As a shot

If you are feeling ready for a quick health hit, then simply mix a spoon of your chosen superfood - maca, spirulina, wheatgrass or a blend - with filtered water and then knock it back!

In raw energy bites

Food process dates, nuts, vanilla and a spoonful of maca powder for some delicious raw energy bites. Experiment with other ingredients such as raw cacao, seeds, coconut flakes, nut butter, chia seeds and other healthful ingredients as you perfect your recipe. You can also roll your raw balls in superfoods for a colourful finish - try spirulina for a colourful green energy ball to enjoy after your workout!

What is your favourite way to enjoy superfoods?

Raw peanut butter and jam protein slice

Recipe - Raw peanut butter and jam protein slice

I am such a big fan of peanut butter and jam. The combination of sweet and salty is a classic and is a firm favourite for so many people on toast, in sandwiches, on pancakes.... However, heavily laden with refined sugar I now tend to stay away from conventional jam in favour of home-made healthy alternatives.

I wanted to create a recipe that used this winning combo but in a healthy snack that doesn't involve smothering it on top of carbs, and a slice seemed like the perfect solution. This recipe also doesn't use nuts in the base so it's really light in texture and on the tummy. 

Ingredients
Base
1 cup organic rolled oats
1 cup Medjool dates
4 tbsp organic peanut butter (I always choose ones palm oil free or from sustainable palm oil sources)
4tbsp raw hemp protein powder
Drizzle of maple syrup or agave
Jam Layer
250g berries of your choice (I used raspberries and blueberries)
4 tbsp chia seeds
Top Layer
1 tbsp coconut oil
1tbsp raw cacao powder
1tbsp coconut palm sugar or sweeter of your choice

Method
1. First make your jam, in a blender add all your berries and blend until broken down in to liquid consistency. pour in to a bowl and add the chia seeds, mix well and place in the fridge for about 15-20 minutes to set.
2. Put the oats in a food processor and blitz for about 30 seconds or until oats have a breadcrumb consistency. 
3. Add the dates, peanut butter, hemp protein powder and maple syrup and continue to blitz.  This should slowly form a dense sticky mixture, if it's too dry add a little water and blitz again. 
4. Place the base mixture in a tin lined with baking parchment and spread and press evenly to all corners.
5. Once set, speed the chia jam on to the base and pop in the freezer for 10 minutes. 
6. Melt the coconut oil in a pan on a low heat, once melted add the raw cacao powder and coconut palm sugar and mix very well. You should have a thick liquid consistency similar to melted chocolate. 
7. Take the tin out of the freezer and pour the cacao liquid on top of the jam. You can cover it evenly or make patterns. Place the tin in the fridge for 20 minutes to all it all to set together. 
8. After it has set, take out from the fridge, cut in to squares, bars or shapes and enjoy:) 

6 reasons spirulina is the superfood you need right now 

With its deep forest green colour, spirulina powder is often considered the king of super greens. Its unique colour is down to the fact that spirulina is actually a form of algae. And this amazing superfood is simple to add to your daily routine - all you need to do is stir one heaped teaspoon into a smoothie filled with fresh fruit once a day and you'll start feeling the health benefits. Here are six reasons spirulina is the superfood you need right now:

1. Packed with protein

Gym-going vegans have been drinking spirulina-packed smoothies for years. In fact, spirulina is 64% protein! The fact that there are 57 grams of protein per 100 grams is just mind-blowing. So, if you are looking for a protein uptake without having dairy or meat - look no further.

2. High in chlorophyll

Chlorophyll is the stuff that flushes toxins and bad stuff out of your blood. No, this doesn't mean you should continue to eat poorly or drink excessively to balance it out, but it can give you a helping hand.

3. High in iron

If you are on a plant-based diet, finding foods high in iron is a real struggle. Spirulina is packed with iron to help you solve that issue.

4. Packed with nutrients

Spirulina is also packed with the nutrients your body craves for everyday healthy functioning and wellness such as vitamin A, B6, C and D. On top of that, you'll find magnesium, zinc, potassium, manganese, copper, phosphorus, chromium and selenium.

5. High in antioxidants

High in antioxidants means it's great for a detox and also amazing for your skin.

6. High in calcium

Spirulina is incredibly high in calcium meaning that's good news for your teeth and bones. To all those milk drinkers out there, spirulina actually contains over 26 times the amount of calcium found in moo juice.

The Beauty of Health

For me, health is obviously a lot about the food you eat, the superfoods and suppliants you can take to support your body, but also about what you are putting on your skin, in your hair and around your home.

Sophia - the clean green beauty machine

You would be amazed how absorbent your skin is and the effect this can have on your health. There have been links to the aluminum in deodorant and breast cancer, skin sensitivities and the use of sodium laurel sulfate in shower gel and shampoo (a chemical also used for cleaning car engines!) and the use of paraffin in moisturizers which block your pores, which in turn can cause ache, sleeplessness, excessive sweating and much more.

So here are my top 5 alternative products for keeping those harsh chemicals away from your skin….

Shampoo and Shower Gel

For both my shampoo and shower gel I use products by JASON. Available in most health food stores and online I absolutely love the small of the Apricot shampoo, not only is it free from harmful chemicals it also makes my hair feel clean, soft and shiny. Of the range of shower gels I adore the lavender scent, it’s so relaxing for post –gym showers, or try citrus for a fresh morning wake me up.

I would also recommend shampoos by Faith in Nature, again free from harmful chemicals I particularly like their range of soaps.

Deodorant

I have been on a mission to find aluminum free, propolyne glycol free deodorant that actually works. Deodorants will often be advertised as ‘natural’ or ‘clean’ but still contain ‘potassium alum’ or other lymph clogging chemicals. One of the best I’ve found is by American company ‘Honestly pHresh’ – available in some health food stores and from www.healthmonthly.co.uk it comes in a range of fragrances for women and men. If you have found a good deodorant I’d love to hear from you, leave me a message or Tweet me :)

Toothpaste

Most of the major toothpaste manufacturers add fluoride to toothpaste, this can cause a number of health issues including stomach ailments, rashes and acute toxicity. So much so in fact, that all toothpaste brands in the US that use fluoride have had to add a poison warning to every tube.

My favourite fluoride -free toothpaste is AloeDent, it’s super minty, leaves my teeth feeling clean and is available in loads of shops including Waitrose.

Second to that I also like Kingfisher, best known for its fennel flavor toothpaste (you will either love or hate it), Kingfisher also does mint, bicarb, aloe and strawberry for children. Plus Kingfisher prides itself on being cruelty-free and ethical, Yay!

Moisturizer

Having a great moisturizer is important to many people, from experience I know I rely on it to keep my skin soft, especially at the change of seasons when I tend to get dry skin. 

It’s certainly hard to find a perfect brand but there are a lot of companies paving the way for organic, clean and green skincare.

The price can vary hugely, for super luxury I love Dr Hauschka, the quality of their products is fantastic.  My mid-range favourites include Neal's Yard, Avalon Organics, and Aromatika. All of which are available online or in stores around the country.

Alternatively, my secret for great skin is Coconut oil, I put it on my face every night before bed and when I need a moisture injection. You can buy a jar from Detox Trading for only £6.95 and it lasts ages.

Finally, it’s always worth buying from a cruelty-free brand, look for the ‘Leaping Bunny’ symbol, check the website or if in doubt email the company to ask.

Tampons

I realise this is a rather personal matter but I think this is another important health issue that tons of women may not be aware of.

Many conventional tampons are made of rayon, are bleached for whiteness, contain chlorine and come with a plastic applicator. Not only are these contributing to waste levels, there have also been links to reproductive issues from these tampons.

I am on board for sure that sanitary products should be tax-free, after all it’s not a choice for women, but I do also think it’s worth spending the extra money on organic-cotton, biodegradable, chlorine and plastic free tampons.

Why not try Natracare, they have a great range of products available online or in health food shops. They have a great ethos and have been producing eco-friendly, body-friendly sanitary care for many years.

I also just want to give a shout out to two fab websites that you can get some wonderful clean, green beauty products. Love Lula is one of my absolutes faves, such a great range of brands with so many cosmetics that will benefit your health and the planet.

Along with that I also love Being Content Health and Wellbeing, again with fab products you can find them both online and in their London store.

Sophia x

About Sophia

Sophia Harvey is one one of the owners of the successful online health food retailer Detox Trading, and is currently studying to become a natropathic nutritionist with the Nutritional Healing Foundation. Complementary therapy has been in the Harvey family for four generations, Sophia's great grandfather being one of the UK's first Osteopaths.