The Naturalist Blog
*
The Naturalist Blog *
Staff Picks: Summertime Edition! ☀️
Sharing our absolute favorites for this season of long sunny days, ample bugs, and picnics with friends.
Rose
Alaffia Kids Bubble Bath - Lemon Lavender
While we may not associate bubble baths with summer, kids are usually coming home at the end of the day covered in dirt, sunscreen, bug spray, and probably other things that we don't want to know about. Ending the day with a bath to relax and mellow out is so nice, or is just a solid way to kill some time on those long summer days. This is truly the best bubble bath, and I have tried many. A little goes a long way to have mountains of bubbles to splash around in and it has a lovely and subtle scent. And while certainly not recommended, my kiddos have inadvertently eaten a lot of Alaffia bubbles and they seem to be doing just fine. :)
Gabi D
When looking for something refreshing on my face I really enjoy Indie Lee’s COQ-10 toner. Indie Lee combines aloe, chamomile, cucumber, and COQ-10 to keep the skin moist, reduce sun damage, and works with all skin types. It’s super soothing and smells like summer! I highly recommend getting our travel kit, which includes a miniature version of the toner, and keep it in your bag. Give your face a refresher in the middle of the day!
Amber
Relaxus Scalp Massage Shampoo Brush
Cool showers are my favorite way to beat the heat in the summer, and they're even better with the aid of this shampoo brush. Its long nubs gently massage your scalp, increasing blood flow and clearing away buildup, and it feels incredible when paired with a refreshing tea tree or mint shampoo (shoutout to Giovanni Tea Tree Triple Treat, another favorite of mine). It also has the (perhaps dubious) distinction of looking almost identical to the brush I use on my cat--maybe cats are on to something, though, because this brush feels aaah-mazing.
Allison
Rishi Tea - Blueberry Hibiscus
This blend of rooibos, hibiscus flowers, elderberries, blueberries & schisandra berries from Rishi Tea & Botanicals is a refreshing beverage for balmy summer afternoons. My favorite way to enjoy this tea is iced with a squeeze of fresh lime or lemon! Brew it hot and chill it or let it steep in your fridge overnight - cold brew isn't just for coffee!
Brenden
Badger Clear Zinc Sunscreen Cream - SPF 40 Protect Land + Sea
Summer in the city means you need sunscreen in your bag at all times. I go for the Badger SPF 40 Sport Mineral Sunscreen with Clear Zinc. When using this you get great lasting protection, but never forgot to reapply often! The best part about this product is the clear zinc, which leaves minimal to no white cast on the skin. Come in to our stores, pick it up and have a great summer!
Alina
Fat and the Moon Dry Shampoo - Lavender Cocoa
This is absolutely the best dry shampoo I have ever tried, and is truly a life saver in these sweaty months! It has minimal, natural ingredients and absorbs oils so well while not leaving a funky residue. I have dark brown hair and since this has cocoa powder in it, it leaves no white/grey cast that I am used to from other dry shampoos - and it leaves your hair smelling oh so delish!
Emily
Jade Leaf Matcha - Organic Ceremonial Grade Matcha
I've recently been taking a break from coffee for the sake of my stomach (sigh), and found that the next best thing to give me that necessary morning boost is a delicious matcha latte! Matcha has both naturally occurring caffeine and the amino acid L-Theanine which supports a balanced, calm energy. To make, I sift a teaspoon of Jade Leaf's organic ceremonial grade matcha into my favorite ceramic bowl, pour 3oz of 180º water, whisk it with all the 7 o'clock energy I can muster, and then pour a healthy dash of oat milk over the top. As the temperature has started to rise, I've been enjoying it over ice with a little maple syrup. Yum!
Sally
Wildly Organic - Chocolate Syrup
Made with only 2 Certified Fairtrade ingredients: Organic raw agave nectar, organic raw cacao powder!
This yummy chocolate syrup is processed without heat. It is thick, rich and actually more like chocolate fudge. Warm it up and drizzle it on ice cream - like Alec's organic Tahitian Vanilla Bean ice cream made with pasture raised milk from a Verified Regenerative farm or Jeni's Brown Butter Almond Brittle ice cream made with grass grazed milk,or sprinkle some Let's Do Organic Confetti Sprinkles on top (all these can be found in or near our Freezer Case). Bring on the Summer.
Keilah
Yoto & Claire Haitian Black Castor oil
I am a huge fan of anything castor oil and my favorite one has to be Haitian castor oil. The smell is absolutely devine with an overall nutty scent with undertones of sweet goodness. The benefits of castor oil are numerous, I personally use this castor oil to deeply moisturize and soften my skin, hair and scalp. It is rich in omega's 6 & 9, ricinoleic acid, vitamin E all things that help with wound healing as well as tending to angry skin. Castor oil also is antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, so it is perfect after sun care especially mixed with some aloe vera gel to further cool down any irritations. Hope you enjoy it as much as I do!
Sofia
Patagonia Provisions Lemon Caper Mackerel
PLEASE try this! Eat it with a cracker, in pasta, with rice, on a hot dog..you'll love it on everything! I look forward to making my way through all the tinned fish flavors, and fully anticipate loving all of them, but starting with this one was a SOLID choice. Patagonia Provisions works with local fisherman who fish using traditional methods, and by choosing Mackerel, you are taking pressure off some of the overfished species, like Tuna! Tinned fish for life :)
Gabi C
Ursa Major Spray Deodorant - Hinoki
As the weather is heating up, now is the perfect time to switch from my favorite Little Seed Farm Deodorant Cream (Blue Tansy if you're wondering...), to a spray! It's super lightweight and lasts throughout the day. It's also the perfect size to throw in your bag for a roadtrip or weekend getaway.
Caleb
Ursa Major Golden Hour Recovery Cream
I love the sun. I always feels better when I spend time outside with the sun of my face but it means I need to take extra good care of my skin. So, in addition to using a clean mineral based SPF if I'm working in the garden or spending the day at the beach, Ursa Major's Golden Hour Recovery Cream is my go-to daily moisturizer to keep my skin hydrated and nourished all summer long.
Aria
Mad Hippie Sheer Tint Sun Serum
This has been my FAVORITE new product. It’s a mineral SPF that blends into the skin so soft and smooth and NOT GREASY! I repeat not greasy. I’m not a person who enjoys wearing a super heavy foundation in the hot weather; however a light coverage is much appreciated so that I can still feel my best. This is just the perfect base for the summer time. Not to mention that its vegan and cruelty free. I can’t recommend it enough!
Molly
Omsom Vietnamese Lemongrass BBQ Starter Pack (3ct Sauce + Recipe)
This is my first summer with a grill at home and I'm SO excited to use Omsom for all of my grilled proteins! I've tried several of the Omsom flavors and the Lemongrass BBQ is my current favorite. Great on chicken, shrimp, pork AND tofu, but really the possibilities are endless. It's the perfect combination of savory, tangy, and a little sweet. I like to use half of the packet as a marinade and reserve the rest to glaze at the end. Pair it with a bowl of rice and some fresh veggies and you've got a delicious and easy meal!
Vicki
Fred Soll's Resin Incense - Sweet Frankincense
This brand sells the BEST quality incense. They roll the sticks in real resin, and you see the actual pieces of frankincense on the sticks. They also burn for the longest of times, and you can snuff one out so you can use it more than once. They do require longer exposure to fire to get it to burn, compared to most traditional incense out there. I love burning incense outside in the summer time (in a holder, and not in the dirt. NEVER put an incense stick in dry dirt, it burns the dirt... don't ask how I know).
Dev
Death Valley Nail Polish - Plump Haunches
Nothing screams summer to me like freshly mowed grass on a balmy day, and now you can wear the same vibe right on your nails. It probably won't make your haunches any plumper, but it will make your fingernails look stylish and fantastic, and isn't that just as important at the end of the day?
Shannon
Mad Hippie - Daily Protective SPF
Every summer morning when I was a kid, my siblings and I would line up in the living room so, one by one, my dad could cake on our 80+ SPF sunblock for the day. I hated the feeling of SPF so much that once I got older, I often neglected my sun care, even though my skin is very fair and I burn fast! In the past few years, I have really started caring more about preventing sun damage and learning what the best products are to protect my skin. It is so important to reapply your SPF especially during the summer! I love this product because, even though it is zinc oxide based, it isn't too thick in the same way other mineral SPF's are. This serum blends in so fast! I use this product in my every day morning skincare routine throughout the year, but in the summertime I start my day with something thicker, like Badger - SPF 50 Adventure Mineral Sunscreen Tin, and then use this to easily reapply throughout the day!
Mike
Portland Syrup Co - Lavender Syrup
I love drinking in summer. Hot, cold, it's all good to me, but I get tired of things if I'm constantly pouring them down my gullet in the hotter months. Fortunately, I've found this lavender syrup to add to my toolkit, so to speak, when snazzing up drinks! No matter what you're making, be it some kind of tea, a mocktail for lunch, or a nightcap, lavender is an excellent option for adding that summer sun to your drinks. Bonus: it only takes a splash! Sure, you CAN drink straight from the bottle, and it MIGHT be delicious... but you don't have to.
Get Your Best Sleep!
By Amber T
CN Supplements Buyer and Sleep Enthusiast
Sleeping. We all do it, we all need it, and sometimes, it feels like we all have trouble with it. How can something so necessary be so difficult to obtain?
Sleep is a hugely personal, and, dare I say it, intimate experience. No two people are going to have the same sleep needs, so there's a lot of room for experimentation when it comes to what works the best for you. Unfortunately, that means that you may need to try a number of different things to get your best night's sleep. At Cambridge Naturals, we've got a wide variety of products to help you customize your perfect sleep routine.
Melatonin: A hormone that's naturally produced by the human body in response to darkness, melatonin comes in a number of different dosages such as 1mg, 3mg, 5mg, and 10mg, usually in tablets or in lozenges that you dissolve under your tongue about an hour or so before going to bed. Though it's the most commonly-used sleep supplement, initial research has shown it may be most beneficial for individuals with circadian rhythm or sleep phase disorders. It's also often taken to help mitigate the effects of jet lag.
CBD: Produced from varieties of the hemp plant that have been bred not to have any psychoactive chemical components, CBD (or cannabidiol) has become popular in recent years for its anti-inflammatory, anti-anxiety, and mildly sedative effects. It can be found in tinctures, capsules, and gummy form, sometimes combined with other sleep aids such as melatonin or lemon balm. CBN is a related chemical to CBD, formed when the chemical compounds in THC break down over time. Because it's closer in form to THC, it has a stronger sedative effect, but should not be used by individuals who are sensitive to THC.
Herbal remedies are a popular option for people looking to avoid melatonin, and they've been used by humans all over the world for thousands of years. Valerian, a pungent-smelling root in the honeysuckle family; passionflower (also called maypop), and hops are herbs that have all been found to aid with sleep. They're commonly available as tinctures, capsules, and various tea blends. The world of herbal sleep aids is a large one, and there are many different options to explore!
There are a number of things you can do to improve the quality of your sleep instead of (or in addition to) taking supplements. Avoid blue-light producing devices (such as phone screens, computers, and televisions) in the hours before bed, as studies have shown they may reduce the body's natural melatonin production, as well as causing mental stimulation that makes falling asleep harder. Create a pleasant sleeping environment with dimmed lights, darkened window shades, and pleasing aromatherapy like lavender. Make your bed a comfortable space that you look forward to relaxing in with your preferred pillows, soft sheets, and maybe even a weighted blanket! And while it might be tempting to have a nightcap before heading to bed, the dehydration caused by alcohol may actually cause you to wake up in the middle of the night later on.
Getting your best night's sleep can seem complicated at first, but it doesn't have to be. View our selection of sleep aids here, and good luck catching those sweet, sweet Zzzz's!
Sources:
https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/melatonin-what-you-need-to-know
https://www.sleepfoundation.org/sleep-hygiene
https://www.webmd.com/pain-management/cbd-cbn-what-is-difference
The information in this blog post is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the guidance of your doctor or other qualified health professional with any questions you may have regarding your health or a medical condition.
‘New Blog Series? Natto Problem!’
By Dev, CN Manager + Breakfast Bowl Aficionado
Working at Cambridge Naturals has given me many opportunities to hone my skills in the kitchen with delicious, all-natural ingredients! It’s been a fun challenge to use several of our amazing products in one dish, and this is the first in a series of blog posts that will be exploring some quick, simple meals sourced primarily or only from our shelves.
One of my go-to breakfast staples is relatively simple and fast to put together, and allows almost infinite options for customization: the humble rice bowl. My breakfast rice bowls always feature one of my favorite super-foods… natto!
Natto is somewhat divisive in the culinary world. It has a uniquely pungent, earthy flavor, and a sticky-slimy texture. While it’s not for everyone, it is a savory and nutrient-packed addition over rice and has been a popular breakfast food in Japan for centuries. So, what is it? Soy beans fermented with Bacillus subtilis var. Natto!
Natto is associated with many health benefits. It’s the original and primary source of nattokinase, an enzyme which can provide support for blood clotting and other cardiovascular issues like hypertension. It’s also the most concentrated food source for vitamin K2, which provides support for calcium regulation in bone growth and strength.
Bacillus subtilis itself is also a spore probiotic species which provides many natural benefits in terms of human gut biome diversity and maintenance. It’s also high in plant-based protein and prebiotic fiber, all of which can support a healthy and happy gastrointestinal system!
NYrture Natto, which we sell two varieties of–original, and turmeric natto for extra inflammation support–is also produced using live cultures and shipped refrigerated rather than frozen. Meaning that all of those benefits are even more potent. A single natto serving from NYrture’s natto contains 18% of your daily protein value, and 20% of your daily Iron value. NYrture is also home to the world’s only OU Kosher certified natto. Much to celebrate!
Natto is traditionally eaten with mustard, tamari sauce, and sliced green onion, but there are infinite ways to dress up a rice bowl with it! For my morning bowl today, I made use of all of the following, which can be obtained in one fun CN trip:
Cadia Short Grain Brown Rice (soon to appear on our shelves! In the meantime, check out the rest of our fantastic EDLP deals from Cadia.)
Everything except the fresh green onion! The prep time on this sort of rice bowl is extremely minimal: roughly 15 minutes to cook a cup of rice on the stovetop or in a rice cooker, and a few minutes more to fry up an egg in a pan with a dash of oil. I use a rice cooker at home which frees me up even more to do prep for the rest of the rice bowl at the same time. Natto and all other additions such as the pickled carrot, dulse flakes, seasoning, and Bachan’s Yuzu drizzle require no formal prep and can just be added in any amount according to your personal preference. (A single serving of natto is 3 tablespoons.) The sky is the limit; I’ve also tossed in broccoli, smoked salmon, or tinned fish (check out our amazing selection in stores!)
So in just under 20 minutes, you’ve got yourself a delicious, nutritious, hearty breakfast which is sure to start your day off right, and is surprisingly simple and fast to throw together even when you’re crunched for time.
Growing Wheatgrass For Your Kitty Friends
By Amber Testa, Supplements Buyer + Cat Enthusiast
Wheatgrass has long been viewed as a 'superfood'. The immature seedlings of the triticum aestivum plant, it is the very same plant that will one day grow into the wheat used to make your favorite whole-wheat baked goods.
Sophonax the cat chomping on some fresh wheatgrass
However, wheatgrass isn't just for humans. Your feline friends also enjoy a tasty snack of wheatgrass! You may have seen 'cat grass' on sale in pet stores, and -- surprise! -- it's actually none other than the same type of wheatgrass you might get added to your smoothie at the juice bar.
Wheatgrass is easy to grow for your cat, even if you live in a third-floor apartment like I do. To grow wheatgrass for my cat Sophonax, I fill a well-draining ceramic or terra-cotta pot with soil, then sprinkle a thin layer of wheatgrass seeds from the Cambridge Naturals bulk herbs section on top, covering them with a bit more soil. Keep the soil moist but not wet, and in a few days, the seedlings will start to germinate!
When the seeds are about four inches tall (which usually takes a bit over a week), I let my cat graze on them. (It's really funny watching her eat the grass with her pointy teeth!)
Cats are obligate carnivores, but they do enjoy the occasional grassy treat. Wheatgrass has a number of health benefits for cats--it is high in protein and vitamins, and the fiber aids in improving your cat's digestion. Cats prone to hairballs can benefit from this in particular. The experience of grazing also provides some sensory enrichment, especially for cats who spend their time indoors.
A couple of precautions: don't let your cat have too much wheatgrass, as it can make their stomach upset, and never feed your cat grass that has been treated with pesticides or other chemicals. (And if you're planting in-ground, always make sure your soil is free of lead and other contaminants, or consider buying bagged gardening soil.)
In addition to being a nutritional powerhouse for humans, wheatgrass can also be a delightful experience for your cat! It's a simple and inexpensive way to add some nutrition and sensory enrichment to your favorite feline's life.
Sources:
Staff Picks: Spring Forward Edition!
Rose
I am picky about sparkling water and have very strong opinions about what constitutes appropriate flavors for sparkling water. That's why I was pleased to find this lychee sparkling water from Sanzo. Lychee is so delicious and I'm always happy to find things that are lychee flavored that don't taste fake or artificial. This sparkling water is refreshing, tastes great, and is the perfect thing to sip as we get into warmer weather. Give it a try!
Amber
Duckhead Umbrella in Royal Blue
I'm not a huge fan of rain, and spring is full of it. But those wet spring days will be a lot more cheerful with this whimsical Duckhead umbrella. It's sure to bring a smile to someone else's face--and your own face!
Gabi D
Little Seed Farm Deodorant Cream - Cedar Vanilla
For years I was resistant to going to healthy route for deodorants. I am a sweaty human, very sweaty. I made a commitment to get away from antiperspirant when I started working at Cambridge Naturals over a year ago. Going into warmer months, it is essential for me to have a really good deodorant for those sweaty days. After a year of trying all of our underarm products, I have fallen in love with Little Seed Farm's Deodorant. It reduces the moisture. The scents are subtle and fresh. ALSO it comes in a glass container (NO PLASTIC). Another perk is we now have it in our bulk section and I can refill the jar it originally came in! Highly Recommend!
Liz
Calendula Flower (Local, Organic)
Picking fresh calendula flowers in my garden is still a few months away, but I am ready for spring (and summer) flowers now! Our bulk dried calendula flowers come from Foster Farm Botanicals, a beautiful herb farm in VT I've had the pleasure of visiting, and their dried calendula flowers are so vibrant. I use calendula to make salve for dry skin or lymphatic massage, I've made calendula tincture as part of an herbal mouth wash, and I put it in tea blends all the time for tummy tissue support and because the orange petals are just gorgeous. It truly is sunshine in a cup!
Sally
Fresh Wave Odor Removing Laundry Booster
For deep fresh Spring Cleaning use a capful of this plant based, natural ingredient odor remover to spruce up and refresh all your laundry! After having all my windows closed all Winter and various cooking / living odors lingering among my curtains, clothing, towels and bedding, i'm ready to wash Winter right out of my house. This product is Non-GMO and non-hazardous for people, pets and the planet.
Alina
I believe Honua has formulated the most perfect, well balanced winter/spring transition face serum! ʻŌlena (Hawaiian turmeric) and noni fruit help fight inflammation and heal dry skin we are all too familiar with thanks to the harsh and unpredictable New England winters behind us. This plant-based oil isn't greasy but leaves your skin with a subtle, natural glow which is the energy we are claiming this spring 🌺✨
Emily
Fresh Watermelon Electrolytes by Superieur
Spring is the season where I watch all of those incredible people training for the Boston Marathon and think "I could do that" despite never having run more than five miles in my life. But truly, walking is my jam, and I was recently inspired by post by a local writer to try to walk at least the distance of a marathon (26.2 miles) in a single day. Rest, stretching and hydration is critical for any long distance endeavor - so I'm stocking up on my favorite Fresh Watermelon Electrolytes from local company Superieur (made with clean ingredients and minerals). I add a healthy scoop to my CN branded water bottle, and off I go!
Zach
Petite Pot - Organic Vanilla Dessert
So hear me out - I know that Organic pudding doesn't cream 'Springtime!', but let me tell you - this stuff is so tasty, so satisfying, so wonderful - you'll be taken straight to the French Riviera on a cool spring evening. Ok... so maybe you won't actually be transported there but you can dream right? All jokes aside, all of the Petite Pot varieties are incredibly delicious and I can't recommend them enough.
Brenden
Beekeeper's Naturals - Nasal Spray w/ Propolis
It's been since my age was at single digits that I used a nasal spray to comabt seasonal allergies. While all of the steroidal shots into my nasal passages have had their purpose and time, as an adult I have grown frustrated by the uncomfortable feeling that said sprays present in my body. Post nasal drip being the worst of them all. On my journey as a Spraymmelier I discovered this fantastic product. I can't say enough about the minimal and noteable ingredients of Propolis and Xylitol. Propolis may support your immune system, and soothe a scratchy throat and Xylitol may help the flow of mucus. This is your time to give it a spray and relax on a sunny day!
Sofia
Triloka Insence - Ayurvedic Chakra Assorted
It's the time to align those chakras! Shake off that winter energy and embrace the Spring! It is a time of growth, beauty, and life and I am thrilled to finally throw my windows open and breathe that crisp fresh air. This assorted pack is perfect because I can decide each day which chakra to focus on. So many great scents in one little package!
Caleb
Alec's Ice Cream - Tahitian Vanilla Bean made with Organic, Regeneratively Farmed A2 Milk
Regeneratively farmed cows? Easy on your stomach Organic A2 milk? Three delicious flavors? I'm selective with the dairy I consume so I was super excited to try Alec's Ice Cream and I can enthusiastically say it does not disappoint!
Molly
Baggu Socks - Ecru Cherry
I love Baggu and I love fun socks! I like anything fruit themed and the socks bring back the cherry print that was everywhere in my middle school days, but in a very cool modern way. I'm always drawn to a pop of color and red is really calling to me these days, so I've been incorporating it into into my wardrobe whereever I can. Plus these are the perfect spring socks: not too heavy and made of a soft comfy bamboo rayon. I'm so ready for warmer weather and putting away my heavy wool. I had to have 'em!
Shannon
Before Cambridge Naturals, I was a bagger at a grocery store for 3 years. Something I realized is it is lot easier for me to use several smaller bags rather than one large bag! Large bags don't always distribute the weight evenly and tend to be more uncomfortable for me to carry. I think the baby baggu's are the perfect size and I love tossing them in my purse before I go out just in case. The Lemon Tree one is so cute and perfect for spring!
Aria
I'm loving these whimsy little jars! So perfect for adding a lil magic to your home. Great for any witches looking to bring in the spring with some new spell jars. Wishing all my witchy babes balance and renewal this spring!
Vicki
Host Defense MycoBotanicals Liver Support Blend
This is the time to cleanse your body of all the wonderful/delicious heavy eating most of us do during the colder months. There are many ways to cleanse, and we like the most gentle approaches. This blend of mushrooms + herbs supports your body in its natural cleansing process. I started taking this a couple of months ago, due to breaking out on my face, which is a sign that your body isn't able to process some thing too well. I have been seeing the difference in my face (slight for now, will be taking it for a couple of months, natural remedies often take a long time to work! don't get discouraged). My digestion is also doing a lot better!
Sarah
There's nothing better than a light spring fragrance. I find it so hard to find a floral done right, but Octavia Morgan has nailed it! Subtle, long lasting, not overpowering. I get so many compliments on this perfume everytime I wear it. (Not a fan of Rose? They have three other scents in their fragrance line and we have all of them!)
Nora
David Winston's Herbalist & Alchemist - Original Bitters
As the soil starts to wake up and shoots start to pop out of the earth in the warming months, bitter herbs and plants are abundant and ready to stimulate the wintering digestive system and herald the new season. This lovely blend of bitter superstars like dandelion root, gentian root, artichoke leaf, and angelica root (with orange peel and peppermint for extra digestive love) can help to get the juices flowing when they're feeling stagnant. I personally love bitters for when I'm feeling bloated and fatigued - they help me to dissipate those feelings of stuckness and heaviness. Perfect for springtime!
Gabi C
Death Valley Nail Polish - Dust to Dust, Hibiscus Flower + Beet Root
The most beautiful addition to my nails that I never knew I needed! It's a super delicate and pretty top coat to add onto their other color called "Becker's White", or just by itself! Just adding a layer transforms the whole nail look to something that feels very sweet and personal. Plus it feels cool to tell people "oh yeah that? that's hibiscus and beet root on my nail." Super magical and definitely worth picking up!
Aquarius Season “Tea”
By Alyssa, CN Buyer and herbalism student
Aquarius is the true wild card of the zodiac. Aquarian’s are distinctly unique- no two you meet will be the same! So in the true spirit of Aquarius, this tea is actually not much of a tea at all… it features Herbal Revolution’s Fire Cider and Topo Chico Sparkling Water. This drink is iced but it will warm you up! It’s tart but it’s sweet! It’s airy but it’s liquid! The sign of Aquarius rules our circulatory system and many ingredients in the fire cider including ginger, horseradish, turmeric, garlic, rosemary, and habanero pepper are known to help boost circulation and increase blood flow.
During the colder months boosting our circulation with herbs like the ones mentioned can help us to fight off that chilled to the bone feeling that can be difficult to shake. Also included in this beverage are both burdock and dandelion root. Many herbalists work with these roots in the springtime (yes, we are almost there!) to assist our organs in their role of filtering toxins from the body. Naturally in the spring time our bodies start to eliminate any toxins that have built up during the winter- burdock and dandelion roots can help to move this process along. Lastly, honey, onions, and hyssop add some sweetness to this otherwise spicy and tart concoction, making it a balanced beverage base. The fire cider is also locally made in Union, Maine, so you can feel great about supporting local farmers.
Fire Cider is based off of a traditional immune-supporting herbal remedy. There is in fact a very similar honey-based recipe traditionally used in the Caribbean, and I’m sure many more around the world! However, the term Fire Cider itself as well as the base recipe was originally coined (or at least popularized) by Rosemary Gladstar, an essential figure in modern American herbalism. Rosemary Gladstar starting using the name and recipe in the late 1970s and taught it to her students for many years. About ten years ago, there was an attempt to trademark the name Fire Cider, which prompted Gladstar and a few other herbalists to form a group called “Tradition Not Trademark” in an attempt to keep the name Fire Cider available for public use. Gladstar and the others’ efforts ended up being successful, making Fire Cider known as a legacy product, which is considered to be a generic term and unable to be trademarked. I thought that this whole ordeal was very Aquarian in nature: putting innovative structures in place with humanitarian intentions. Herbalism at its core has always been by and for the people- just like Aquarians!
To make this beverage, all you need to do is mix 1or 2 tablespoons of the Herbal Revolution Fire Tonic into 8-12 oz of Topo Chico, add ice, stir, and enjoy!
The information in this blog post is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the guidance of your doctor or other qualified health professional with any questions you may have regarding your health or a medical condition.
More from Alyssa @vrgohrbls on instagram!
Yeast 101: Everything You Always Wanted To Know
Once upon a time, long, long ago (okay, three years ago), I interviewed for a job at a certain Cambridge-based natural foods store. And during that interview, I got a little sidetracked talking about how much I love to ferment things. Bread, yogurt, pickles--everything. "I just really like microbes," I said.
Anyway, I got the job. And I'm still super into fermentation. I'm a kombucha maker, a pickled-vegetable devotee, and a sourdough master. And all of this is possible with a friendly little fungus called yeast.
Yeast is a broad category for a type of single-celled organism in Kingdom Fungi. This little fungi lives everywhere around us--on plants, on surfaces, and even on human skin (more on that later). Historical research shows that yeast is one of the earliest known domesticated organisms from its use in beer brewing and breadmaking; archaeological research sites in Israel bear evidence of cultivated yeast colonies from 5,000 years ago!
A kombucha scoby - wild looking!
Yeast, as a general rule, is a fairly simple creature. It consumes sugar and converts it to alcohol, carbon dioxide, and other compounds. Early humans realized this and took advantage of it: yeast's fermentation is what's responsible for the tangy flavor and spongy texture of sourdough bread, as well as the pleasant fizziness and acidity of both kombucha and beer. Early humans, lacking microscopes, considered the fermentation process to be quite magical and mystical (check out this book if you're interested in the sacred origins of fermentation)!
But yeast is also particular in that it is also quite temperature sensitive. Its growth can be slowed down by cooling it (such as temporarily keeping a sourdough starter in the refrigerator between uses), but it can also be 'deactivated', or killed, by raising it to high temperatures. This renders the yeast unable to ferment (which is what makes it different from the yeast used in baking) but unlocks some unique health benefits.
The primary form of deactivated yeast you'll find is saccharomyces cerevisiae, colloquially known as nutritional yeast (or, as its fans call it, 'nooch'). Nutritional yeast is cultivated on a sugar medium (usually molasses or sugarcane) before being deactivated with heat, then washed and dried. It's high in B vitamins (especially thiamin and riboflavin) and iron.With its savory, cheesy flavor, it can be used for a variety of different things, from topping popcorn and pasta to making tasty vegan 'cheese' sauces.
Sourdough starter yum yum yum
A slightly different type of yeast, saccharomyces boulardii, is sometimes used as a probiotic. Studies have shown it to be beneficial in keeping the balance between 'good' and 'bad' bacteria in the gut microbiome, as well as for preventing gastrointestinal distress caused by improper diet or use of antibiotics.
Yeast does, however, have its drawbacks. An overgrowth of a certain type of yeast known as candida albicans in the body can cause an unpleasant infection in the mouth or genitals. Candida albicans is quite different from the yeasts used in brewing and baking, and can be kept in check with the help of another friendly bacteria called Lactobacillus. So no, you can't get a yeast infection by drinking too much kombucha--but drinking kombucha may actually help to regulate your yeast balance!
Ahh, yeast. So many things are possible with the help of this tiny, nearly-invisible organism. So next time you enjoy a brew at your local pub, or snack on some tasty sourdough from that phenomenal cafe down the street, give a little thanks to the microbe that makes so many cool (and delicious) things happen.
Here are some of my favorite yeast-based products at Cambridge Naturals:
Bjorn Qorn: At CN, we're all avid devotees of this solar-popped snack. It comes in a few delicious flavors, but I love the original, topped with salt and nutritional yeast.
Rawmesan: If you're looking to upgrade your pasta game, a sprinkling of Rawmesan may be all you need. Made with walnuts, sunflower seeds, and nutritional yeast, it's a delightful vegan and gluten-free condiment to have in your pantry.
Siete Cashew Queso: Hey, nobody said eating vegan had to be healthy. A classic bright-orange queso to serve with tortilla chips and salsa during the big game, this is one of my favorite indulgences at Cambridge Naturals.
Revival Homestead Kombucha SCOBY: This strange-looking thing is a SCOBY (Symbiotic Culture of Bacteria and Yeast) and can be used to brew a virtually infinite amount of kombucha. While you can technically culture your own SCOBY from scratch, it's a lot quicker and easier to use a premade one. So if you're interested in brewing your own 'booch but don't know where to start, this is a great beginning point.
Bulk Organic Nutritional Yeast Flakes: The basic and the best. I love experimenting with this stuff in recipes!
Sources:
https://www.britannica.com/science/yeast-fungus
https://www.webmd.com/diet/ss/slideshow-yeast-and-your-body
https://www.rxlist.com/saccharomyces_boulardii/supplements.htm
Sunday Sip - Sweet Birch Herbals
By Alyssa, CN Buyer and home herbalist
New to our bulk herb shelves are tea blends from Sweet Birch Herbals, a local community herbal medicine company founded by Hannah Jacobsen-Hardy. We currently carry six herbal blends from Sweet Birch- Sip of Sunshine, Digest & Rest, Immune, Sleep Deep, Nourish & Rebuild, and Heart Lifting. These herbal tea blends are carefully crafted using herbs that are grown in the Sweet Birch gardens, sustainably wildcrafted, or sourced from Mountain Rose Herbs (where we at CN get many of our bulk herbs from as well!).
Personally I am excited to try all of these tea blends, but I am starting with the Nourish & Rebuild. This blend in particular is rich in minerals and nutrients and has menstrual cycle balancing properties as well. I have been making big batches of cycle balancing teas throughout the month for a few years now and I always start with raspberry leaf, which is featured in this blend as well! Raspberry leaf is my absolute favorite herb for cycle support and I love that it is high in magnesium as well, a mineral that we could all use more of! (Visit this lovely blog post from Steph Zabel a while back to learn more about raspberry leaf.) I made Nourish & Rebuild as directed, infusing the herbs with boiling water and letting steep for 4-8 hours. The taste of this blend is grassy and refreshing- great to sip on throughout the day. Sip of Sunshine would be amazing for this time of year as well- notes of citrus and bright spice are sure to bring some light and warmth to cold days.
We are so excited to have these thoughtful tea blends here at the store. Let us know what you think!
The information in this blog post is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the guidance of your doctor or other qualified health professional with any questions you may have regarding your health or a medical condition.
Sunday Sip - Recess!
By Alyssa, CN Buyer and herbalism student
Mocktails and alcohol alternatives seem to be having a moment! Many of us are realizing that non-alcoholic beverages can be just as fun and and make us feel even better than alcohol can. There is so much potential for creative and functional beverage crafting beyond the need for a spirit. Recess makes amazing functional sparkling waters that are meant to keep us calm, cool, and collected. These beverage feature magnesium or CBD, ginseng, lemon balm, and l-theanine, a carefully formulated blend that gives us calm and focused energy without being overstimulated. I love drinking a Recess Mood at any time of day, especially to wind down in the evening. Staff flavor favorites include the limited edition Zero-Proof “Margarita” and the Blood Orange Mood.
Sunday Sip - Ginger Zinger Tea
By Alyssa, CN Buyer and herbalism student
An essential Cambridge Naturals cold and flu season supplement is our house brand Ginger Zinger Syrups. These syrups come in three varieties: Ginger Zinger, Ginger Zinger Immune, and Ginger Zinger Bronchial. They are all soothing, warming, and deliciously spicy. They taste great on their own but I love mixing one into hot water to make a comforting tea. This is especially nice for times when you may feel under the weather as it is a really easy and quick tea to make.
The Ginger Zinger is made with fresh and dry ginger root, organic honey, vegetable glycerin, and water. The Ginger Zinger Immune has all of that plus echinacea and elderberry for added immune support. The Ginger Zinger Bronchial is also based on the Ginger Zinger plus osha root, wild cherry bark, and licorice root- all great herbs for soothing the throat. All you need to do is mix one to two teaspoons of the syrup into 8oz of hot water. You can make it throughout the day as needed, or just when you’re craving something simple and spicy that’s good for you as well.
The information in this blog post is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the guidance of your doctor or other qualified health professional with any questions you may have regarding your health or a medical condition.