The Naturalist Blog
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The Naturalist Blog *
Autumn 2020 Staff Picks!
Abby Suggests: Egyptian Magic All Purpose Cream.
This stuff truly is magical, I had super chapped and cracked lips from wearing my mask all day and this is the one product (I tried many) that soothed my lips! Definitely love the ultra moisturizing and balmy texture too.
Alisa Suggests: Carina Organics Dandruff Flake Removal Shampoo
The holy grail of shampoos. Instantly transformed by brittle, bleached hair, into baby soft smoothness. I've since ditched my high end shampoos and am never going back. Highly recommended for unruly, chemically damaged tresses.
Amber Suggests: Panda Soft Black Licorice
I'm a huge black licorice fan and will try any kind I find, but this one in particular is incredible. Sweet and natural with a very modest flavor, it might even make a convert out of people who are otherwise not into licorice.
Brenden Suggests: Four Sigmatic Reishi Elixir
The most magical of all the legal magic mushrooms available on the market. I drink two packets every night and it truly helps me settle down, especially after getting my toddler to bed and doing all of the things to put the house back together.
Caleb Suggests: Herbalogic Fixed Focus
Feeling foggy? This simple blend of white tea, and the adaptogens, Eleuthero and Gynostema is my go-to tincture for when I need to focus. It gives me mental energy without the physical jitters I get with coffee. Perfect for getting back into school, work, or creative project. I have a bottle on my desk and another in my bag.
Chuck Suggests: Host Defense Lion’s Mane Extract
It made me remember to do my staff pick!
Courtney Suggests: RMS Beauty Eye Polish in Solar
It is warm and sparkly, yet subtle enough to wear any day of the week, and on any part of the face! Think candlelight *glow*, but in makeup form. Really adds a je ne sais quoi to any look.
Ellen Suggests: Emily Skin Soothers Liquid Soap Soother
If you use this shower gel with the Exfoliating Gloves from EcoTools you'll have the smoothest, softest skin without any irritation! I would advise using this duo before shaving, waxing or applying self tanner.
Emily J. Suggests: Soul Spring CBD Lip Balm
After trying many lip balms, this is actually healed my lips! Highly recommend for anyone with chronic chapped lips.
Emily K. Suggests: Klean Kanteen TKPro Insulated Bottle with Cup
As the weather cools, I’m looking forward to many long day hikes in the great outdoors, and taking in the view with a cup of hot tea or coffee (or maybe mulled wine!) from this all-in-one thermal canteen.
Jake Suggests: Coyote River Hemp Co. Hemp Infused Maple Lemonade
Because it’s new and really good.
John Suggests: Lotus Foods Organic Forbidden Rice
To quote the great sage Al Jourgensen, every day is Halloween. But to be more specific, for me the season starts in earnest one day after Labor Day and ends around Veterans' Day. Did you know Forbidden Rice will impart its black patina to other foods you cook it with? Try it with a chicken and rice soup. If you throw in some slime-green peas and jack o' lantern-orange carrots, maybe a little bruise-purple cabbage, you've got your entire spooky season color palette in soup form.
Meghan Suggests: Simply Gum- the whole line!
Power to the mask wearers! But, in the words of David Sedaris “Everywhere I go it smells the same, and it smells like my breath," Simply Gum gives my breath a breadth of tastes and smells. Plus- NO PLASTIC!!!
Mike Suggests: Native Forest Organic Coconut Milk
This has been a staple for myself over the past few weeks, and has helped me stay focused and keep on track doing keto! Non-BPA can, No guar gum. Just organic coconut milk and filtered water. Makes for a delicious base for smoothies, curry, golden milk, chia pudding, matcha lattes, and protein shakes!
Morgan Suggests: Mountain Rose Herbs Hibiscus Flowers
Because water is boring, and hibiscus water is not.
Nancy Suggests: Indie Lee Brightening Cleanser
Joylessly, some of us are dealing with minor pimple outbreaks due to the face covering protocol. No more tears please, some of the key - lovely ingredients are here to help you: Lycopene powerful antioxidant derived from the tomato that fends off environmental aggressors and Strawberry Seed Oil rich in salicylic acid and vitamin A, B, C and E, boots elasticity and radiance. Great for all skin! Even very sensitive!
Nick Suggests: Rancho Gordo Heirloom Bean Guide
Because I love beans!
Sally Suggests: Fat of the Land Kava Elixir
Just 1 dropper full at the right moment can make a world of difference ! I find when the day gets a bit intense and I feel overwhelmed, this Kava Elixir very subtlety makes me feel relaxed and calm.
Sam Suggests: Baggu Face Masks
Made of two layers of sturdy cotton, these masks are both stylish and comfortable, and constructed to conform to the face in a way that safely covers both nose and mouth. Remember, masks aren't effective if both nose and mouth aren't covered! Also, I get strong fall vibes from the different color palettes - warm harvest reds, muted mustards, bright oranges, sage greens. Coordinate a mask with your outfit for safety and style!
Sarah Suggests: Nubian Heritage Mango Butter Hand & Body Scrub
I am not exaggerating when I say that I have tried every single body scrub we carry. It's my thing. And the scrub factor on this is where it's at. It doesn't dissolve super quickly, allowing for extra scrub time and it smells soooooo good. Lately I use it on my hands too before moisturizing. I no longer live without this. Ever.
Steph Suggests: Host Defense Superfoods Greens Powder
I recently started shaking this into my water (+ Superieur Electrolytes, a splash of ACV, squeeze of lime--and sometimes pine pollen powder). The taste is mild and blends into water pretty easily. I'm really into this as a no-fuss way to get in brain-boosting mushrooms, electrolytes and nutrient dense greens.
Vicki Suggests: Oatly Full Fat Oat Milk
The Full Fat is much much creamier than the "original". It completes my morning beverage of choice!
Zach Suggests: Indie Lee Squalane Facial Oil
Like so many people I've got Eczema, Psoriasis, & Seb Derm, so my skin doesn't really like most any moisturizer. I tried hundreds of skincare products (natural and not natural) until I finally came upon Squalane. It's super gentle, doesn't clog my pores or aggravate my skin, and combined with a little silicone or glycerine for some added moisture - it's just the thing! And Indie Lee is the best I've found.
Founder Interview: Julia Teren of Thesis Beauty
Sarah, CN’s Co-Director of Purchasing recently chatted with Julia about the origin story of Thesis, the messiness of powdered masks and why we should embrace their mess, and why raw oils are the best for our skin.
Shop Balancing Serum Here
When / why did you get started with skincare formulation? Have you always wanted to launch your own skincare brand, or was it more of a hobby at first? As a first-generation American coming from one of the most devastated countries in Europe, becoming a beauty entrepreneur and formulator was beyond my wildest dreams. But I always yearned to break into the beauty industry in some capacity while also messing with ingredients here and there. I turned to serious formulating when my skin started behaving completely out of whack, being dry, oily, itchy, acneic and flakey all at the same time. I tried so many creams, lotions and serums from the brands whose names were roaring in the natural and global beauty scene. I also tried DIY recipes involving pantry ingredients. But to my surprise and desperation, nothing helped. I realized that most brands were focused on the symptoms, not the root cause of skin behavior which is why nothing helps or works long-term. I dedicated 1.5 years to thorough research of the ingredients and skin biology. With my PhD-like approach to things (hence the name Thesis), I developed and tested formulas that cured my skin. I left out pore clogging, cheap carrier oils, animal products, waxes, water and everything that's required to force oil mix with water. The results were shockingly good. And this prompted me to try myself as an entrepreneur and share my remedies with people who just like me were stuck in their search for pure and effective beauty products.
Shop Mermaid’s Cheek Mask Here
What is the benefit of powdered masks / cleansers vs other liquid / paste products? Powdered masks hit 3 points at once: No preservatives, No water, Endless Customization. Now, not all powdered products are made equal. You can see some very popular dry shampoos or powdered/anhydrous cleansers and masks that are filled with chemicals. So just because it's a powdered product, you still need to make sure it's natural or go for a brand whose natural and organic integrity you trust. So speaking of a completely natural/organic powdered product, there should be nothing synthetic in it that only functions to the benefit of the texture and shelf life, like preservatives, emulsifiers, pearlizers, colorants, parfum, etc. When properly formulated, natural powders cleanse very gently, yet effectively without stripping your skin, leaving it too tight and dehydrated like traditional foaming cleansers do. Our cleansers are made with edible ingredients which gently lift off dirt and oils, stimulating circulation and helping skin heal. All skin types benefit from gentle cleansing, even oily skin which conventional products cleanse too aggressively thus perpetuating its problems. Moving on, No water means also that you are getting a concentrate and not shipping water around - you have plenty at home. Lastly, Customization means that you are not stuck with one-size-fits-all texture and benefits. You can make your mask thinner or thicker according to your personal preference. And importantly, you can activate powder with a liquid of your choice influenced by your mood, your skin preferences of the moment, so your treatments can be better fine tuned to your personal needs. The ritual of mixing your powdered mask is one of the important parts of your self-care protocol that helps recharge, restore emotional balance and feel in control of your life.
I admit I'm always hesitant to reach for powders because I'm not the neatest person and I always feel like I am going to make a giant mess. What advice do you have for those of us who are nervous about using powdered products? Can I ramble a bit here? :) Many people seem to be intimidated by the little messes. But have you noticed how a little bit of chaos while mixing a mask, paint or making dough can bring out your creativity and carefree, childish fun? As children we were often scolded for making messes by our caregivers who understandably were very busy and tired and didn't want to deal with additional cleanups. But unfortunately as a consequence we carry this fear of spills, splats and stains through our lives which inhibits our healthy, natural propensity towards experimentation and creativity. Therefore, against your deep-seated fears and nagging inner critic, allow yourself to make some mischievous, glorious, creative messes! Nobody is a hopeless klutz - you just need courage to practice.
Ok, zooming in on the mask mixing. Tools should help cut the mess. You will need 3 things: a teaspoon, a bowl, and a brush. The whole process should resemble using your powdered proteins or supplements. Use a clean, dry teaspoon to take out powder from the jar. Keep a clean small mixing dish or bowl right under the jar, so you can immediately pour or spill powder straight into the bowl. If you spill some - draw a smiley face on the splat and move on. The size of the dish or bowl should be medium size, not too small and not too flat or shallow. If powder or water splashes it will be all trapped inside the bowl to be used during the mixing stage with no mess around your bowl. Then use your teaspoon to pour in liquid. Pour one teaspoonful of liquid at a time and mix to get the best consistency for your needs. Using a clean cosmetic or art brush mix powder and water with short folding movements. Our masks mix into very smooth, creamy paste that is soft and spreadable. You can apply it with your fingers or your brush. I prefer brush (a retired makeup brush) for more precise application. You may need slightly thinner consistency for the brush compared to finger application. It looks like a lot of text, in reality it would make less than a few minutes of an instructional video. It truly is simple and not as messy as people might fear. So, courage! :)
Shop West Indies Face Scrub + Mask Here!
It seems that all this staying-at-home is inspiring more and more folks to get into masking (as proven by a Facetime call the other day where my friend had a facial treatment on the whole time!). You have a lot of really wonderful masks in your product line. Where do you suggest a person start who is just getting into using a face mask as part of their skincare routine? Thank you so much for the compliment to our masks, coming from you that means a lot! That is true - we've seen a spike in mask sales during the pandemic, including export which means people all over the globe are indulging in facial treatments. For a beginner, I would recommend a multitasking product that is also unisex and can be easily shared. For example, West indies facial scrub and mask which can be also used as a cleanser. This way you can experience how a powdered product works three ways, experiment with it and see what function you like best or maybe all of them. Powders that are too fine like some charcoal masks or other super fine powders will give a beginner a hard time because they do tend to splash and fly everywhere, so stick with heavier textures. Our masks are not superfine powders, so they are rather easy to mix.
Speaking of masks... With all this cloth masking wearing becoming part of our everyday lives, anything in particular you recommend to care for the parts of our face that are often covered with a cloth mask for hours during the day? That's a very good question. Like every part of our body, our facial skin also needs to "breathe". I would encourage people to take breaks from masks whenever it's safe to do so. Masks tend to trap a lot of moisture between skin and cloth. I do tend to get itchy sometimes, especially if I happen to wear a synthetic mask (which I try to avoid). With cotton masks though a similar thing may happen, although they tend to provoke less itchiness in my personal experience. Also, wearing the same mask for over 2 or 3 hours promotes growth of germs and fungi hence they should be frequently changed. I would recommend daily nasal rinses at the end of the day and daily gentle cleansing of the skin with the mildest cleanser - non-soap (powdered or oil-based) cleanser in the morning, soapy in the evening or after wearing a mask. I would caution even more than usual against aggressive, skin damaging, abrasive treatments and procedures like harsh acid peels, micro needling, scratchy sugar scrubs and such. Anything that damages the skin area covered by the mask opens the gate for infections - and you don't need to overburden your immune system with more fights than it should be picking right now.
Your Facial Recovery Serum for Dry Skin is one of your most popular product with our customers. Can you give us an overview of the ingredients and how they work to support dry skin? Thank you, this is one of the first products in our line. I developed it trying to get under control severe flaking, itchiness and tightness of my skin. Store-bought, water-based products, albeit organic, didn't moisturize enough. Also the ones with preservatives, especially phenoxyethanol, caused irritations. My formula resolved all issues very quickly and felt surprisingly good under makeup - although soon it became obvious that foundation wasn't even needed anymore. My criteria for the ideal base for dry skin included only oils that were:
1. 100% organic
2. RAW, unrefined
3. non-clogging
4. the highest antioxidant value and naturally high content of vitamin E and lecithin - the components that help skin rebuild itself.
That's how Jojoba, Sunflower, Argan, Grapeseed, Macadamia, and Rosehip Oil made the cut. All of them are organic and RAW oils except Sunflower. We recently discovered a source of amazing Pomegranate CO2 Extract which is now a star ingredient in this rejuvenating formula. The new formula is also completely soy-free - we replaced soy-based vitamin E with Sunflower based, more potent mixed tocopherols. We never use water as this ingredient tends to dilute and disrupt many of the nutrients and it also invites synthetic ingredients that are unnecessary and sometimes harmful (preservatives, emulsifiers, etc). Therefore our products are also 100% synthetics-free. With all the seeming simplicity, there is a tremendous amount of research that goes into each ingredient and the proportions, what to put in and what to leave out. I am glad this product is helping Cambridge Naturals' customers enjoy youthful, healthy skin.
Founder Interview: Nico Estrella of Waku
If you haven’t yet tried Waku plant-based tonics, you are missing out! Courtney, CN’s Marketing Manager, recently had the pleasure of interviewing one of Waku’s founders, Nico Estrella. Read on to learn about these unique beverages!
Where did Waku begin? What was the process behind creating the first batch of Waku?
Both me and Juan were born and raised in Ecuador, a mega-diverse country in Latin America that has some of the best natural ingredients in the world, due to its fertile soil and it’s advantageous position in the middle of the world. We are long-time friends from childhood and we've started multiple e-commerce businesses in the past.
Moved by our passion for entrepreneurship, when Juan moved to Boston to do his MBA in Babson College, we started to think in our next venture that could allow us to do more to make a real difference in Ecuador. For our next startup, we decided to merge our entrepreneurship skills with a direct-sourcing business model that is allowing us to create direct economical impact in the livelihoods of independent Ecuadorian farmers.
The Waku Tonics you're about to taste are based on a recipe that has been proven and perfected through centuries of use in the Southern regions of our home country Ecuador. Locally known as "horchata lojana", it's consumed every day to support gut health. In 2017, we did a road trip through the Andes Mountains in the search of the best tasting recipe, and after trying 52 different versions of it we found the recipe for Waku. We met Miguel, a local farmer that invited us to his home and brewed his family recipe with us. After tasting it we loved it! We told Don Miguel our idea, and told him that if he was willing to share his recipe with us we could partner up with him and buy all the ingredients directly from him as his community. He happily agreed and he shared the recipe to make the first batch of Waku.
I know the Waku tonic and blend of herbs is native to the Andean region of Ecuador. Can you tell us about your first time trying "el agua que cura”?
The first time I remember drinking “horchata lojana” or “el agua que cura” was when I was 8 years old. I remember having a stomachache and my mom always used to make hot herbal teas to do help alleviate the stomachache. Normally as a kid I hated any herbal tonic because they tasted like medicine, but “horchata lojana” has a sweet taste that it was the only one I liked when I was a kid.
Can you explain the meaning behind the word "Waku”?
Waku comes from a quechua word which means “together”. We blend “together” more than 20 functional herbs to make every bottle of Waku. Also, the sense of togetherness and community is really important for us as a company. Quechua is the most widely spoken language of indigenous people from the Andes Mountains of Ecuador.
There are so many powerful herbs in Waku!! Do you have a favorite? Or one that you feel is extra special to the drink and/or the origin of Waku?
All of them are amazing! But I think two of them are extra special: red root amaranth and escancel. They are not only anti-inflammatory but also they give Waku’s unique red color when you brew them.
Lastly, what is your favorite time of day to drink Waku? Do you have a favorite flavor?
I always drink one bottle of Waku with my lunch to help me digest better and prevent inflammation in the afternoon. I love all the flavors but my favorite one is the Ginger Lemongrass. Passion Fruit is a close second as Passion Fruit is my favorite fruit ever.
Nico and Juan, childhood friends and founders of Waku
Summertime 2020 Staff Picks!
Abby Suggests: Olipop Strawberry Vanilla
So yummy and makes my tummy feel so happy (:
Alisa Suggests: Little Seed Farm Deodorant Cream
Perfect for those hot steamy summer nights!
Brenden Suggests: Goodpop Organic Freezer Pops
They are a great treat to beat the heat and to keep my toddler at bay, at least for a few minutes! They contain no added sugar and are made from 100% organic fruit juice.
Caleb Suggests: Ursa Major Forest Fix Deodorant
You’ve probably asked yourself sometime over the past five months, “do I really need deodorant?” The answer is most likely, not often. But for those special occasions when you want to smell fresh and clean for someone else, or even just yourself, I recommend Ursa Major’s Forest Fix. You’ll smell like summertime in Vermont.
Chuck Suggests: Goodnow Farms Brown Butter Chocolate Bar
It's up there in price but is phenomenal. It was my personal B-day gift. <3
Courtney Suggests: Cambridge Naturals Stress-Ease
These capsules have made a huge impact on my mood and stress levels over the past month. With adaptogens like Ashwagandha and Tulsi, along with Rhodiola, Passionflower, Lemon Balm and Bacopa, this is a really soothing and stress-supporting blend. The key is to take it consistently!
Ellen Suggests: Bulk Licorice Root
I made a licorice root tea for the first time ever last night and WHOA it's so sweet and flavorful. Going to try adding some sassafras to tonight's mix :)
Emily J. Suggests: Indie Lee Clearing Mask
I've been using this a couple times a week to treat my face-covering related breakouts. This is great at improving skin texture, clearing/preventing breakouts and congestion without over drying your skin. I also like to use it as a spot treatment at night.
Emily K. Suggests: Cambridge Naturals Astragalus
This wonderful herb has been used for centuries in Traditional Chinese Medicine to help support a healthy immune system. Especially these days, I'm doing everything I can to stay as healthy as possible!
Jake Suggests: Apple Park Organic Picnic Pal Blankie
This guy has been a huge help during my time staying at home. A cozy friend!
John Suggests: Coming soon!
Lauren Suggests: Four Sigmatic Mushroom Coffee Mix
Life with a newborn can make rest hard to come by. While Four Sigmatic products have always been favorites of mine, I’m loving them now more than ever. This mushroom coffee supplies me with the energy I need with minimal caffeine, so baby’s milk isn’t impacted and I’m not left jittery. The added Cordyceps, which can offer anti-inflammatory benefits, has been supporting my body through both our world’s stressful times and postpartum recovery.
Matt Suggests: Superieur Watermelon Electrolytes
Superieur Electrolytes are my go to supplement over the summer when I want to stay hydrated. These electrolytes are refreshing and taste good without being too sweet. They are full of real and clean ingredients like Himalayan Salt, Acerola Berry, and Ionic Sea Minerals. ~
Mike Suggests: Athletic Brewing Co. Run Wild IPA
For those that are managing their alcohol intake like myself, while still wanting a flavorful, crisp and hoppy beer at the end of a hot summer day, this has been my go-to! Their other non-alcoholic beers they brew are also very crushable.
Morgan Suggests: Coming soon!
Nancy Suggests: Coming soon!
Nick Suggests: Tierra Farms Organic Dried Mango
Yum
Sally Suggests: Coming soon!
Sam Suggests: MEM Tea Blood Orange Hibiscus bulk tea
If you're at home, you can use it to make a delicious iced tea blend to sip at home, while you stay at home, in your house.
Sarah Suggests: Olipop Strawberry Vanilla
What Abby said!!
Sawyer Suggests:
DRAM Gingergrass CBD! This is the best seltzer I have EVER tasted and I've tasted a lot of seltzers in my lifetime.
Plus, you can't beat the soothing calm of the CBD.
Steph Suggests: Nutrigold Turmeric Curcumin Gold
A staple for me. Helps with overall inflammation and pain, keeps my stress levels low, and keeps my skin clear from the inside out.
Vicki Suggests: Primal Kitchen Ranch Dressing
My brother's favorite snack is cucumber and ranch dressing, and he got me obsessed with it. Nothing better than a nice cold cuke with some ranch dressing on a HOT summer day in a tiny apartment on the top floor with no AC.
Zach Suggests: Clean Giving Hand Sanitizer
Local, Simple, Effective. 80% alcohol in a convenient spray bottle. And a 1-for-1 donation for every ounce bought!
Interview with Taste Radio
Taste Radio editor Ray Latif spoke with CN Co-Owner Emily Kanter about the recent reopening of Cambridge Naturals’ locations for in-store shopping, her decision to take the reins of her family’s business six years ago, why the retailer stopped selling groceries in the 1990’s and why it resumed a few years later. She also explained what she looks for in a brand’s backstory and what would make her less inclined to stock a new product, why Cambridge Naturals is consistently rotating its selection and why the company tries to be on “the cutting edge, but not bleeding edge” of emerging trends. Later, she expressed optimism that the FDA would provide concrete guidance about CBD-infused foods and beverages and how entrepreneurs interested in partnering with the retailer can connect with her team.
Listen here:
Our re-opening guidelines!
In-Person Shopping Hours
Monday - Saturday 11am - 4pm (Porter Square)
Monday- Saturday 11am-5pm (Boston Landing)
Curbside Pick Up Hours:
Boston Landing Monday - Saturday 10am - 6pm
Porter Square Monday - Saturday 10am - 6:30pm
Please be advised that the following protocols are now in place, for our safety and for yours (and, according to the current retail policies in MA):
Our “open” hours until further notice will be 11am - 4pm at Porter Square and 11am-5pm at Boston Landing, with the first hour (11am - 12pm) for seniors and immunocompromised folks only. We will likely expand our open hours as the days progress and we become more comfortable with this schedule.
10 customers are allowed in Porter Sq and 5 customers in Boston Landing at any given time, under current guidelines. If we have reached our limit, we will not allow the next customer to enter until someone has left. Please form a (physically distanced) line outside till we can let you in.
All customers are required to wear a face mask or face covering that covers their nose and mouth when inside the store. No exceptions. If you would prefer not to wear a mask, we are happy to offer you curbside pick-up as a shopping alternative.
Please do not come to shop if you are aware of having any symptoms related to Covid-19 or have been in physical contact with someone who has symptoms of the virus or tested positive for Covid-19.
We will still be taking curbside pick up orders via phone and website, as well as offering local delivery! Feel free to place an order for curbside or delivery if you would prefer that method. Curbside pick up is available 10am - 6:30pm at Porter and 10am - 6:00pm at Brighton.
We will supply hand sanitizer for customers at stations throughout the store. Please use it upon entering.
All basket handles will be wiped down with alcohol before use. We will also be conducting regular cleaning of all “high touch” sections. No testers of body care items are available for the time being.
No tote bags or large shopping bags are allowed in the store. Please leave large bags in your car or at the front of the store while you shop.
We are happy to discuss products with you and answer questions, and, our staff will maintain a 6ft distance from customers (and each other) at all times, or remain behind the plexiglass dividers at the desks, for our safety and for yours.
Our bulk herbs section is Full-Serve only (no self-serve!) and we can not take your containers to fill at this time. We will happily fill paper or plastic baggies for you. Thanks for your understanding!
Cash is welcome, cards are encouraged.
We have placed arrows around the store to encourage traffic flow in a single lane direction. Please adhere to the arrows whenever possible.
Be advised that we are still not taking returns on items. Please purchase what you would love to bring home and keep!
Thank you for your understanding of these new protocols, and we can’t wait to see you!!
Opening our doors this week!
We are so thrilled to open our doors to the public this week!
In-Person Shopping Hours this week:
Boston Landing Tuesday 6/30 - Friday 7/3 11am - 4pm
Porter Square Wednesday 7/1 - Friday 7/3 11am - 4pm
Curbside Pick Up Hours:
Boston Landing Monday 6/29 - Friday 7/3 10am - 6pm
Porter Square Monday 6/29 - Friday 7/3 10am - 6pm; Saturday 7/4 11am - 4pm
Please be advised that the following protocols are now in place, for our safety and for yours (and, according to the current retail policies in MA):
Our “open” hours until further notice will be 11am - 4pm, with the first hour (11am - 12pm) for seniors and immunocompromised folks only. We will likely expand our open hours as the days progress and we become more comfortable with this schedule.
10 customers are allowed in Porter Sq and 5 customers in Boston Landing at any given time, under current guidelines. If we have reached our limit, we will not allow the next customer to enter until someone has left. Please form a (physically distanced) line outside till we can let you in.
All customers are required to wear a face mask or face covering that covers their nose and mouth when inside the store. No exceptions. If you would prefer not to wear a mask, we are happy to offer you curbside pick-up as a shopping alternative.
We will also be taking customers temperatures via a no-touch thermometer and those with a temperature over 100 degrees will not be allowed inside. Please do not come to shop if you are aware of having any symptoms related to Covid-19.
We will still be taking curbside pick up orders via phone and website, as well as offering local delivery! Feel free to place an order for curbside or delivery if you would prefer that method. Curbside pick up is available 10am - 6:30pm at Porter and 10am - 6:00pm at Brighton.
We will supply hand sanitizer for customers at stations throughout the store. Please use it upon entering.
All basket handles will be wiped down with alcohol before use. We will also be conducting regular cleaning of all “high touch” sections. No testers of body care items are available for the time being.
No tote bags or large shopping bags are allowed in the store. Please leave large bags in your car or at the front of the store while you shop.
We are happy to discuss products with you and answer questions, and, our staff will maintain a 6ft distance from customers (and each other) at all times, or remain behind the plexiglass dividers at the desks, for our safety and for yours.
Our bulk herbs section is Full-Serve only (no self-serve!) and we can not take your containers to fill at this time. We will happily fill paper or plastic baggies for you. Thanks for your understanding!
Cash is welcome, cards are encouraged.
We have placed arrows around the store to encourage traffic flow in a single lane direction. Please adhere to the arrows whenever possible.
Be advised that we are still not taking returns on items. Please purchase what you would love to bring home and keep!
Thank you for your understanding of these new protocols, and we can’t wait to see you!!
Today is Juneteenth!
Boston Celebrations, Rallies and Virtual Movements to Join
Photo via Boston Magazine, courtesy of the ICA
Freedom Fete presented by the ICA: a virtual dance party from 8pm-12am!
A Saturday march in Cambridge, led by 6.19, a national call for a day of action
Funk the Police Musical Speakout and Rally in Dorchester
A Juneteenth Black Winegrower Celebration hosted by TJ of The Urban Grape
Boston’s 10th Annual Juneteenth Emancipation Observance 2020
Malden Juneteenth Flag Raising, Performances, Proclamation
Virtual Celebration with the MFA (including a panel with Trillfit owner Heather White!)
Poetry As Protest: Dr. Malcolm Tariq and Camara Brown in partnership with the Museum of African American History. Register here!
Songs of Freedom: A Black Music Month Tribute & Fundraiser by Darryl's Corner Bar And Kitchen, Roxbury
In honor of Juneteenth, Boston JerkFest is excited to feature Nahdra and Jahriffe, owners of Oasis Vegan Veggie Parlor in Dorchester.
“Food for the Body, Food for the Soul” presented by Black Heritage Trail of New Hampshire. A virtual concert, cooking class and community dialogue live from the Portsmouth African Burying Ground.
And - Sign the Petition to make Juneteeth a National Holiday!
Can’t attend an event? Support these Black-owned businesses in Boston!!
To drink: The Urban Grape in the South End
To eat: Fasika Ethiopian Cafe in Roxbury
For dessert: Tipping Cow Ice Cream in Somerville
For another dessert: Clarke’s Cakes and Cookies in Dorchester
To read: Frugal Bookstore in Roxbury
To give to your loved one: Giselle’s Flowers & Gifts in Roxbury
To get a trim: Sly’s Barber Shop in Cambridge
To learn: Spokehouse- Bowdoin Bike School in Dorchester
To exercise: Trillfit live, online classes in Mission Hill
P.S.! Consider using BlackBoston.com to search for Black-owned businesses in Massachusetts!
Honoring Juneteenth
On June 19th, 1865, the last enslaved African Americans were finally informed of their liberation in Texas, a full two and a half years after the Emancipation Proclamation was decreed - and therefore could be considered the true beginning of the liberation of Black people in America (clearly, we still have a long way to go!). Juneteenth is celebrated in the Black community and in family gatherings, and last year Pennsylvania declared it a state holiday.
Today, we in America celebrate July 4th as our "Independence Day" but of course, July 4th 1776 does not recognize that a huge percentage of our country was not and would not be independent or free. Juneteenth could rightfully be considered our nation's true Independence Day.
We at Cambridge Naturals, along with our partners at The Sustainable Business Network, Cambridge Local First, and The Williams Agency encourage everyone to take time this coming Friday, June 19 to commemorate and celebrate this important national holiday. There are several ways to celebrate Juneteenth this Friday, locally!
Juneteenth Celebrations (Online!)
A Juneteenth Black Winegrower Celebration hosted by TJ of The Urban Grape
Boston’s 10th Annual Juneteenth Emancipation Observance 2020
Malden Juneteenth Flag Raising, Performances, Proclamation
Virtual Celebration with the MFA (including a panel with Trillfit owner Heather White!)
Poetry As Protest: Dr. Malcolm Tariq and Camara Brown in partnership with the Museum of African American History. Register here!
Songs of Freedom: A Black Music Month Tribute & Fundraiser by Darryl's Corner Bar And Kitchen, Roxbury
In honor of Juneteenth, Boston JerkFest is excited to feature Nahdra and Jahriffe, owners of Oasis Vegan Veggie Parlor in Dorchester.
“Food for the Body, Food for the Soul” presented by Black Heritage Trail of New Hampshire. A virtual concert, cooking class and community dialogue live from the Portsmouth African Burying Ground.
And - Sign the Petition to make Juneteeth a National Holiday!
Support these Black-owned Businesses in Boston!
Photo: The Urban Grape
To drink: The Urban Grape in the South End
To eat: Fasika Ethiopian Cafe in Roxbury
For dessert: Tipping Cow Ice Cream in Somerville
For another dessert: Clarke’s Cakes and Cookies in Dorchester
To read: Frugal Bookstore in Roxbury
To give to your loved one: Giselle’s Flowers & Gifts in Roxbury
To get a trim: Sly’s Barber Shop in Cambridge
To learn: Spokehouse- Bowdoin Bike School in Dorchester
To exercise: Trillfit live, online classes in Mission Hill
P.S.! Consider using BlackBoston.com to search for Black-owned businesses in Massachusetts!
Reminder! Workshop: Sharing Our Pain and Dismantling Racism in MA and Beyond
Join the Sustainable Business Network of Massachusetts on Wed, June 17th from 4:30–6:00pm in a conversation to discuss actionable ways to dismantle racism in our communities!
Sign up here (it’s free!)
Banter with Kanter (and Coven!)
Emily Kanter and Michael Kanter of Cambridge Naturals interview Mitch Coven, Co-Founder of Vitality Works, in our 2nd ever installment of Banter With Kanter (see the first one here)!
Join us for a vibrant conversation on everything from Mitch's "desert island" herbal remedies to why Vitality Works is one of our favorite companies of all time (and the makers of our popular Cambridge Naturals Brand herbal medicines!) to how to care for yourself in the midst of a global pandemic.
