Delicious Raw Holiday Energy "Shot Blast"

Happy Holidays Everyone!  Last weekend, here in northern coastal Maine, we received our first snowfall of the season - a beauteous white blanket 7 inches thick.  Truly sets the tone for Christmas, for sure.  But, the shoveling of my walkways and decks reminded me that my cardio training has not been up to par and that my energy stores need to be stoked.  So, on that note, today's blog will be about how to infuse your body with a quick burst of energy - healthfully.  And, during this busy Holiday Season, who couldn't use a bit more energy?  Right?

In my bestselling book, Raw Energy In A Glass: 126 Nutrition-Packed Smoothies, Green Drinks, and Other Satisfying Raw Beverages to Boost Your Well-Being (Storey Publishing, c2014), I wrote a chapter called, "Raw Shots: A Quick Blast of Energy".  What the heck is a raw shot, you ask?  These are small, uncomplicated, quick-to-make, energy elixirs, usually a half-cup of liquid or less per serving, that deliver a rapid shot of power!  In addition to being the perfect afternoon pick-me-up for both adults and children, many of these little "energy rush" drinks are wonderful to serve at parties.

They can be made in large batches a few hours ahead of time and stored in decorative liquor or wine bottles in the refrigerator - chilled and ready to excite the palates of your arriving guests.  Attach a custom, colorful label to the bottle describing your "healthy home brew."  It's fun to watch the reaction on people's faces when they taste your wares!

The darker purple beverages in the photo below (the ones with the dark flecks) represent today's recipe:  Deep Purple Vibrations Shot.  Please give it a try - it's most delicious!

Deep Purple Vibrations Shot

A feel-good, look-good drink if there ever was one!  Simply made using only dark purple, antioxidant-rich grapes blended with tart lime juice, it will quench your thirst, lift your energy, and, with abundant natural sugars, satisfy a raging sweet tooth.  Most kids love this drink, especially if you give it a goofy name, like Purple Monster Juice.  Beats a box of pasteurized juice any day!

Highly alkaline and energetically cooling, grapes will help the body eliminate excess heat and acid.  Enjoyed on a regular basis, the anti-inflammatory action will help soothe achy joints, too.

Ingredients:

- 1 cup dark purple, seedless grapes
- 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
- Pinch of sea salt (optional)

Directions:

1.  Place the grapes, lime juice, and salt, if desired, in a blender and blend on high until smooth and frothy, about 30 seconds.

2.  Serve immediately, complete with all of the fiber, as I do, or strain through a mesh strainer to yield a more clarified beverage.  Mix with a splash of carbonated water to make a natural, yummy sparkling soda!

Yield:  2 servings

A Good Source Of:  antioxidants galore, plus vitamin C, iron, potassium, phosphorus, magnesium, boron, natural sugars, and fiber (if you don't strain it out)



Note: This blog was written by Stephanie Tourles and the recipe adapted from her book, Raw Energy In A Glass (Storey Publishing, c2014).  The information is true and complete to the best of her knowledge.  All recommendations are made without guarantee on the part of Ms. Tourles.  She disclaims any liability in connection with the use of this recipe/information.  It is for educational purposes only.

Gentle Chamomile Body Oil - Sensitive Skin Salvation

Hello Everyone - Sorry for my "blogging absence", I didn't realize that it had been 6 weeks since my last post.  I've been in the throes (and still am) of doing the last rounds of editing of the manuscripts and photography for 3 new books.  Two that will be published in 2018 and 1 in 2019.  I do so love writing, but the required editing processes can be daunting, plus I've never had to edit 3 manuscripts at one time.  Live and learn!  When all is said and done, the books will be awesome, though.  Well worth the effort!

Regarding blogging, I've been wanting to share with you one of my favorite body oil recipes made with the ever-so-gentle chamomile flower.  The original recipe is actually called, Chamomile Baby Massage Oil, and can be found on pg. 106 of my Hands-On Healing Remdies book (Storey Publishing, c2012).  For today's blog, I've changed the name of the recipe (because it's really more than just a baby oil) and added Roman chamomile essential oil to the ingredient list to enhance the skin-healing properties of the flower-infused oil. 

The photographs were taken in July of 2017 and the resulting infused oil was made using fresh flowers from my Maine garden (that I had allowed to wilt and slightly dry for 3 days prior to making the recipe), but you can always use dried flowers purchased from an organic herb supplier such as www.mountainroseherbs.com or www.jeansgreens.com - 2 of my favorite companies.  The sensitive, dry skin of my face and body love this oil.  Sinks right in with nary a greasy residue.  I also frequently use it on my clients when performing facial acupressure and massage.  I've never had anyone have a reaction to it - no matter what their skin type.  Please try your hand at making a batch - your skin will thank you!

Gentle Chamomile Body Oil - Sensitive Skin Salvation

No matter what your age, if your skin is tender, fragile, or super-sensitive, it requires ultra-mild care to keep it soft, supple, conditioned, nourished, and healthy as an effective barrier to the outside world.  The simple luxury of almond oil infused with chamomile flowers, with their anti-inflammatory and vulnerary (skin tissue healing) properties and apple-like relaxing aroma, is all that's needed to care for your delicate skin.  It's also perfect for the new, young skin of an infant or the papery, thin skin of an elder.

If you grow only one herb in your garden, you must grow a patch of German chamomile flowers (Matricaria recutita; M. chamomilla).  In addition  to using them to make bath, facial, and massage oils, you can brew them for tea, make sleep pillows, and use the infused oil for sleep and dream balms.

Ingredients:

- 2 cups dried or 3 cups freshly wilted (fresh picked & dried for 3 days prior to use)

- 3-4 cups almond oil (enough to completely cover flowers and fill the jar) - May substitute jojoba oil or sunflower oil if allergic to almond

- 20 drops Roman chamomile essential oil 

- 2,000 IU vitamin E oil

Equipment:  Widemouthed 1-quart canning jar, stirring utensil, plastic wrap, strainer, fine filter, funnel, glass or plastic storage containers

Prep Time:  1 month

Yield:  Approximately 2.5 to 3.5 cups (depending on whether you used fresh or dried flowers)

Storage: Store at room temperature, away from heat and light; use within 1 year.

Directions:  Place the chamomile flowers in a 1-quart canning jar.  Drizzle the almond oil over the plant matter until the oil comes to within 1 inch of the top of the jar.  The dried herb may pack in the bottom and the wilted herb matter will settle with the weight of the oil, so don't worry if it looks as though you don't have enough plant matter in the jar.  Gently stir to remove air bubbles and make sure that all the plant matter is submerged.

Place a piece of plastic wrap over the mouth of the jar (to prevent the metal lid from coming into contact with the herbs) and tightly screw on the lid.  Shake the jar several times to blend the herbs and oil thoroughly.  Place the jar in a warm, sunny location such as a south-facing windowsill or outdoors during the warmer seasons.  Shake the jar every day for 30 seconds or so.

After 1 month, carefully strain the oil through a fine-mesh strainer lined with a fine filter such as muslin or, preferably, a paper coffee filter, then strain again if necessary to remove all herb debris.  Squeeze the flowers to extract as much of the precious oil as possible.  Discard the marc (spent herbs).  Add the vitamin E oil and Roman chamomile essential oil and stir to blend.  The resulting chamomile oil will be golden in color.

Pour the finished oil into storage container(s), then cap, label, and store in a dark cabinet.

Application Instructions:  After a warm bath or shower, pat your skin almost dry.  Apply a small amount of infused oil onto your slightly moist skin, massaging it in with gentle, circular motions until it is completely absorbed.  This oil can easily be massaged into dry skin anytime you desire - it sinks in so nicely.  Allow oil to soak into skin for at least 5 minutes before dressing.

Note:  This blog was written by Stephanie Tourles and recipe adapted from her book, "Hands-On Healing Remedies" (Storey Publishing, c2012).  The information is true and complete to the best of her knowledge.  All recommendations are made without guarantee on the part of Ms. Tourles and are for educational purposes only.

Tropical Immunity Boost: Day-Glow Antioxidant Fusion

Hello Everyone!  Early fall is in the air here in northern, coastal Maine as evidenced by the smattering of red maple leaves scattered about the woodlands, along with cooler evening temps.  With the change of seasons from summer to fall (and often changing family schedules and heightened stress) many of us can succumb to the cold and flu germs that seem to be lurking about this time of year - just waiting to latch on and make us feel downright crappy. 

By late August, I typically begin to boost my immune system for the upcoming long Maine winter by consuming foods chock-full of vitamins A, B, C, D, E, and K, plus minerals such as potassium, zinc, magnesium, manganese, copper, calcium, etc., and plenty of live enzymes from raw foods.  A healthy body builds a robust defensive shield against nasty bacterial and viral invaders.

Today, I want to share with you one of my favorite tropical smoothies that contains many of the nutrients I mentioned above.  It can easily be made in any good quality blender.  The recipe comes from page 158 of my book, "Raw Energy In A Glass: 126 Nutrition-Packed Smoothies, Green Drinks, and Other Satisfying Raw Beverages to Boost Your Well-Being" (Storey Publishing c2014). It's the tall orange beverage in the photo below.  The drink in the smaller, adjacent glass is my recipe for "Aloe & Pineapple Digestive Health Elixir", that can be found on page 161 of the same book - it's perfect for boosting digestive health.  If you like tropical fruits such as ripe papayas, pineapples, and mangoes, then you'll be whipping up this drink again and again!  Kids absolutely love the flavor!  Give it a try, won't you?  I guarantee that your taste buds will be left smiling!

Day-Glow Antioxidant Fusion

Like sunshine on a cloudy day, this glorious golden-orange, tropical smoothie is a supreme source of youthifying enzymes, antioxidants, and vitamin C. Great as a refreshing morning beverage or afternoon pick-me-up.  It boosts your immune system, helps keep colds and flu at bay, and helps combat visible signs of aging.

Ingredients:

- Fresh, raw juice of 3 oranges, tangerines, or tangelos
- 1 medium papaya, seeded, flesh scooped out
- 1 cup fresh super-ripe pineapple, cut into small pieces
- 1 cup fresh or frozen mango, pitted, cut into chunks
- 1 teaspoon natural vanilla flavoring (optional, but adds a nice, rich flavor)

Directions: Put the orange juice, papaya, pineapple, mango, and vanilla in a blender and puree until smooth and frothy, about 30 seconds.  

Serve in glasses or insulated mugs.  This tropical smoothie is rich in natural sugars and fiber, so drink very slowly and "chew" each sip so that it digests with ease.

Yield:  1 large or 2 small servings

A good source of: antioxidants, papain and bromelain enzymes, vitamins C and K, folic acid, magnesium, calcium, manganese, potassium, natural sugars, and fiber

NOTE:  This blog was written by Stephanie Tourles and the recipe was excerpted - with permission - from her book, "Raw Energy In A Glass" (Storey Publishing, c2014).  The information presented is true and complete to the best of her knowledge. All recommendations are made without guarantee on the part of Ms. Tourles. She disclaims any liability in connection with the use of this information.  It is for educational purposes only.

Calendula-Infused Body Oil: How To Make It

Hello Everyone!  I'm so excited about today's blog . . . I had a bountiful crop of gorgeous vibrant orange and yellow calendula flowers this summer and made a stunning medicinal oil from my harvest.  This blog has several beautiful pictures of my flowers, the oil solar-infusing in my jar, and a recipe detailing how to make it (which comes from page 162 of my Hands-On Healing Remedies Book (Storey Publishing, 2012), which is available from online book-sellers and most bookstores nationwide.  I've altered the recipe below just slightly - so it's a little different from the one in my book - but either work well.  If you have a garden, I encourage you to dedicate some space to this glorious multi-purpose healing herb.  You'll be well rewarded.

A little about Calendula (Calendula officinalis) . . . these flowers are known for their calming, anti-inflammatory, mildly antiseptic, and vulnerary (tissue healing) properties.  Slightly astringent with a neutral-to-cooling energy, the infused oil can be used in facial oils, body oil blends, medicinal oil blends, salves, and balms for all types of skin - including infants and elderly, where gentle effectiveness is of utmost importance.  Calendula-infused oil is especially beneficial for environmentally damaged, inflamed, abraded, cracked, chapped, or infected skin. The resinous, sticky, white sap from the calendula stem has been used for centuries as a wart remover, and the fresh flower juice (which can be extracted using a mortar and pestle) is one of my favorite remedies to help heal minor skin infections, hives, bites and stings, and skin abrasions.

Here are photos of the flowers infusing in extra-virgin olive oil and the finished, strained out oil . . .  

Now, for the recipe . . . 

Simple Calendula-Infused Body Oil

The sunny calendula flower is strikingly beautiful and intensely colorful, and it contains simple, potent, yet gentle medicine.  Calendula-infused oil is mildly antiseptic, fights inflammation, stimulates skin cell regeneration, and conditions skin by helping to restore elasticity and suppleness.

The oil can be used alone or may be added to body oils, blends, salves, and balms intended to aid in the healing of all manner of skin irritations, psoriasis, eczema, stretch marks, burns, scars, cuts and scrapes, bug bites and stings, infections, dry skin, and diaper rash.  I highly recommend that you keep a jar of this "miracle oil" in your medicine cabinet.

NOTE:  I always make this infused oil in the summer or early fall, when I can pick the flowers fresh from my garden, but if fresh blossoms are unavailable, dried ones will do nicely, too.  I prefer to use the solar infusion method, but also occasionally make it on the stove top in a saucepan on very low heat, in a double boiler, or in a crock pot on very low heat.  Important: Fresh calendula flowers are very thick and sticky and need to be wilted or semi-dried for at least 72 hours prior to making this recipe so that a good portion of their moisture evaporates before introducing them into the oil.

Ingredients:

- 3 cups dried or 4 cups freshly wilted calendula flowers
- 3-4 cups almond, jojoba, or extra-virgin olive oil (enough to cover flowers)
- 3,000 IU vitamin E oil (Tip - using 3, 1,000 IU capsules is most convenient)

Equipment:  1-quart canning jar; stirring utensil, strainer, fine filter, funnel, glass or plastic storage containers

Prep Time:  1 month

Yield:  Approximately 2.5 to 3.5 cups (depending on whether you used fresh or dried flowers)

Storage:  Store at room temperature, away from heat and light; use within 1 year

Directions:  If you're using freshly wilted calendula flowers, cut or tear the flowers into smaller pieces to expose more surface area to the oil.  You must first allow them to "wilt" or "semi-dry" for 72 hours before making this recipe . . . don't forget this step or a cloudy, slimy, watery-residue will form in the bottom of your jar - which is NOT good - and quickly promotes mold and bacterial growth.  Just lay the flowers on a strip of paper towels in a dry area or in the back of your warm car.  They'll soon start shriveling and wilting.

 After wilting (or if you're using dried blossoms), place the flowers in a widemouthed 1-quart canning jar.  Drizzle your chosen oil (I tend to use extra-virgin olive or jojoba oil) over the plant matter until the oil comes to within 1 inch of the top of the jar.  The flowers will settle with the weight of the oil, so don't worry if it looks as though you don't have enough plant matter in the jar.  Gently stir to remove air bubbles and make sure that all the plant matter is submerged.

Place a piece of plastic wrap over the mouth of the jar (to prevent the metal lid from coming into contact with the flowers) and tightly screw on the lid.  Place the jar in a warm, sunny location such as a south-facing windowsill or set it out on your sunny deck, and allow the flowers to infuse for 1 month.  Shake the jar every day for 30 seconds or so.

After 1 month, carefully strain the oil through a fine-mesh strainer lined with a fine filter such as muslin cloth or, preferably, a paper coffee filter, then strain again if necessary to remove all herb debris.  Squeeze the flowers gently to extract as much of the precious oil as possible.  Discard the marc - or spent herb.  Add the vitamin E oil and stir to blend.  The resulting calendula oil can vary in color from deep, vibrant yellow to yellow-orange to bright orange.  Pour the finished oil into storage containers, then cap, label, and store in a cool, dark cabinet.

Application Instructions:  After a warm bath or shower, pat your skin almost dry and apply an even light layer of the infused oil to your entire body, massaging in gentle, circular motions until it is completely absorbed.  Let the oil soak in for 5 to 10 minutes before getting dressed.  If your skin remains oily, then you've used too much - use less next time.  You can also massage this oil into dry skin anytime you desire - it sinks in so nicely.  It's fabulous when used as your daily facial oil, too.


NOTE:  This blog was written by Stephanie Tourles and recipe excerpted (and altered a wee bit) from her book, Hands-On Healing Recipes (Storey Publishing, 2012).  The information is true and complete to the best of her knowledge.  All recommendations are made without guarantee on the part of Ms. Tourles.  She disclaims any liability in connection with the use of this information.  It is for educational purposes only.

Bye, Bye, Buzzy Mosquito Repellent Spray

Summer Blessings Everyone!  Today, I want to share with you an oh-so-fragrant and effective recipe for an easy-to-make, essential-oil-based, mosquito repellent spray.  It works best for when bugs are only mildly-to-moderately hungry.  The formula comes from page 84 of my book, Naturally Bug-Free: 75 Nontoxic Recipes for Repelling Mosquitoes, Ticks, Fleas, Ants, Moths & Other Pesky Insects (Storey Publishing, c2016).  If you haven't already purchased this handy little book, it's only $10.95 (available online and in bookstores nationwide) and chock-full of recipes for natural mosquito/tick repellents for humans, flea/tick repellents for your dogs and cats, and natural insecticides for your home. Nary a chemical in sight . . . safe for you, your pets, and your home - but the bugs will go running!

Essential oils . . . where do I get mine?  I'm often asked this question.  I've worked with several brands of essential oils in my long natural skin care/reflexology/book-writing career, but I've been primarily using DoTERRA oils for the last year as I've discovered that they are of excellent quality and responsibly/ethically sourced, and there's just something about their energy that I'm attracted to.  I was out of rosemary essential oil when I took the recipe supply photo below - which I can't believe, as it is one of my favorite remedial oils - so I used another brand (thus the bottle with the white cap in the photo).  If you'd like to read about the DoTERRA company and their oils, just visit my website and cruise around  http://mydoterra.com/stephanietourles  

I'm not a "newbie" to essential oils, quite the contrary.  I'm a professional aromatherapist (and an experienced herbalist) with thousands of hours of training and research and would love to have you on my DoTERRA team. I've written scads of books with recipes that incorporate essential oils and taught many-a-class about the healing benefits these oils can offer.  I can educate you about the products in ways that many folks - with much less scholarly and hands-on experience - cannot.  Please email me if you have a question. My address is on my DoTERRA website. So - there's my business plug . . . on to the recipe . . . 

Bye, Bye, Buzzy Spray

Contraindication:  Do not use on children under 2 years of age.

If you love the uplifting, stimulating scents of rosemary, lemon, and peppermint, then you'll adore this mentally energizing formula that happens to repel annoying bugs.  It doubles as a wonderfully effective, antiseptic kitchen and bathroom cleaner, leaving a lingering fragrance that will help deter all manner of pesky insects, especially in dark cabinets where they like to reside.

Ingredients:

40 drops rosemary essential oil

30 drops lemon essential oil (may substitute 'lemongrass' if you wish)

10 drops peppermint essential oil

1/2 teaspoon vegetable glycerin (optional, but adds slight moisturizing effect to skin)

1/2 teaspoon liquid castile soap, peppermint or eucalyptus scented

1 cup witch hazel (available at drug/health food stores or www.mountainroseherbs.com)

8-ounce PET plastic or glass spritzer bottle

Directions:  Add the rosemary, lemon (or lemongrass), and peppermint essential oils directly to your bottle, then add the glycerin, liquid soap, and witch hazel.  Screw the top on the bottle and shake vigorously to blend.  Allow the spray to synergize (so the ingredients can chemically blend) for 1 hour prior to use. Do not forget to add a label, preferably covered with waterproof postage tape, the date made, and the words "external use only".

I often will divide this recipe into 4, 2-oz. bottles and stash one in my purse, car, backpack, and bathroom - so there's always one handy.

Application:  Shake the bottle prior to each use.  Apply liberally to skin as needed - you may need to reapply every 20 to 30 minutes.  May be sprayed on clothing. Remember - DO NOT use on children under 2 years of age.

NOTE:  The recipe in this blog has been adapted from the book, Naturally Bug-Free (Storey Publishing, c 2016), by Stephanie Tourles.  The information in Stephanie's blog is true and complete to the best of her knowledge.  All recommendations are made without guarantee on the part of the author.  She disclaims any liability in connection with the use of this information.  It is for educational purposes only.

Herbal Foot Refresher & De-Stressor

Hello Everyone!  It's the official first day of summer as I write this - my favorite season!  For me, the body part that needs the most tender loving care this time of year is my feet.  Can you relate?  I'm on them a heck of a lot . . .  between gardening, mowing the lawn, walking for exercise, hiking up local trails, and going barefoot . . . they get their share of abuse.  I guess my biggest complaint is that my feet just plain ache by the end of the day.  I'm sure you have days when you've been on yours all day and just want to prop them up and "take a load off" cuz' your "dogs are barking"!  Am I right?

Well, today's blog and recipe is just the ticket . . . it's about how to refresh and rejuvenate your tired, aching feet and put a bit of spring back in your step . . . leaving you footloose and fancy-free!  The recipe comes from page 94 of one of my earlier authored books, "Natural Foot Care: Herbal Treatments, Massage, And Exercises For Healthy Feet" (Storey Publishing), published way back in 1998.  It's an oldie but a goodie!  Everyone has feet and they always need attention - so the content of this book is still quite relevant - for sure.

As a professional foot reflexologist, I see many clients, that for a variety of reasons, have chronically achy feet, and for remedial care, I always suggest purchasing several pair of shoes with a wide toe box, so toes can freely wiggle (shoes that are too small make feet hurt), and that they try the combined foot soak and exercise treatment that follows.  Those two suggestions alone go a long way towards making your entire body feel better!  Please "treat your feet" on a regular basis . . . comfortable feet make a comfortable you!

 Foot Refresher & De-Stressor

This combined exercise and herbal foot soak or "foot tea" is designed to relax tired, aching feet, relieve toe cramps, and strengthen weak foot muscles that support the plantar fascia that runs the length of the bottom of your foot from the heel to the ball of the foot. This treatment is also good if you suffer from hammertoes and pain in the ball of your foot.  Deodorizes and freshens smelly feet, too!  Feels fabulous when done at the end of a long day.

What You Need:

- Plastic foot tub or decent size dish pan
- 40-60 medium-size marbles - the more the better
- Large towel
- 4 tablespoons dried peppermint, yarrow, or sage
- 2 tablespoons dried wintergreen (or substitute more peppermint, if unavailable)
   (If you don't have any loose herbs handy, no worries, simply use a few peppermint or chamomile tea bags that you might have in your cabinet)
- 1 piece of cheesecloth
- 5 to 10 drops lavender, peppermint, rosemary, or eucalyptus essential oil
- 1/2 cup sea salt, baking soda, or Epsom salts 

Directions:

1.  Place the foot tub with the marbles in it in front of a comfortable chair. 

2.  Boil enough water to fill the foot tub to above ankle height - about 1.5 - 2 gallons.

3.  Remove pan from heat and add the dried herbs of choice loosely tied in cheesecloth.  Cover and steep for 15 minutes. Remove the herbs. (You can add the spent herbs to your compost pile.)

4.  Fill the foot tub with the hot tea, and add the essential oil, and the sea salt, baking soda, or Epsom salts.  Swish the ingredients around to dissolve the salt/soda and blend in essential oil.

To Use:

1.  Place your feet in the tub and roll them around on the marbles.

2.  Pick up and release marbles with your toes, grasping marbles tightly, squeezing your toes, then releasing.  Do this for 10 to 15 minutes.

3.  Dry feet roughly with towel.

4.  Slather with a thick moisturizer and put on socks.

5.  Now . . . don't you have "Happy Feet"??  

NOTE:  This blog was written by Stephanie Tourles and content adapted from her book, Natural Foot Care (Storey Publishing, c1998). The material is provided for informational or educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for the advice provided by your healthcare professional or physician.

Olive Essentials Facial Oil No. 1 - REFORMULATED

A Healthy Hello To All My Readers!  The sun is finally shining in Maine today - yahoo!  Hopefully we'll break out of of the cool, damp weather vortex that we've been stuck in for two months!  It's wearing on my emotions, to say the least!

Today's blog is a short one, but an important one.  As many of you know (and for those of you that don't), I'm a licensed esthetician (skin care specialist) in MA, ME, and GA, and I formulate a couple of exquisite, velvety-textured, organic facial oils for Healthy Harvest www.healthyharvests.com (yes, there is an "s" at the end of "harvests") - an importer of the finest raw, unrefined, enzyme-rich, low acid, high-polyphenol count (read, high in anti-oxidants) Tuscan olive oil.  The facial oils are called "Olive Essentials Facial Oil No. 1 and No. 2, and I dearly love both of these formulations - they were designed as "food for the skin" and have Tuscan olive oil as their base, plus various superior-quality, organic and wildcrafted essential oils.  No synthetic fragrances, colors, or man-made ingredients whatsoever!

Since customer care and attention is of extreme importance to Karl Burgart (the owner of Healthy Harvest) and myself, we began to notice over the last several months, that our customers were requesting a facial oil that had more of a lovely lavender essence - lavender ranking near the top of the list of favored essential oils!  Well, you asked and we delivered . . . announcing the NEWLY REFORMULATED Facial Oil No. 1.  To be honest, I love the original formulation of Facial Oil No. 1 - it was not formulated for its aroma, but for the youthifying and nourishing effects it bestowed upon all skin types, including normal-to-oily, combination, mature, environmentally damaged, inflamed, and chapped.  Yes, it can balance nearly ALL skin types and no, it will not leave your skin oily - penetrates quite readily.

The original formulation had a very, very subtle scent, being a combination of organic French Highland lavender, wild-grown rose geranium, wildcrafted myrrh, and organic palmarosa essential oils, but now I've gently altered the recipe, basing my blending on the French aromatherapy model, and the organic lavender essential oil really shines, especially when it's applied to warm skin. I feel it now does an even better job at nourishing and rejuvenating your skin.  Lavender essential oil is considered gentle and safe, a "medicine chest" in a bottle, and has over 165 documented uses for skin and health care.

This is my promise . . . there's nothing on the market anywhere . . . anywhere . . . like our facial oils!  They are totally unique, and that's the truth.  No one in the United States imports the Tuscan olive oil that we use as the base (which comes from a 200 yr. old organic farm in Italy) and uses it in a facial oil. 

If you've already purchased and fallen in love with our original Facial Oil No. 1, then I encourage you to try the new version.  You'll fall in love all over again and your skin will say, "Ahhhh . . . I feel soooo good," and blossom with improved radiance and health!  I use Facial Oil No. 1 at night after cleansing and Facial Oil No. 2 in the morning (it contains wildcrafted frankincense CO2, organic French Highland lavender, and Australian Sandalwood essential oils) and also smells heavenly, but heavier, and more robust.

To order a bottle, go to www.healthyharvests.com
The price per bottle is $39.99 and will last approximately 2-3 months.  For $5 off, use the code:  BCFM5.  Blessings and thanks in advance for your purchase!

Mango Silkshake - Raw Energy In A Glass!

Spring Greetings Everyone!  Seems most of the country has already enjoyed their spring season, or are in the midst of it, or have even slipped on into summer - being quite warm and dry.  How envious I am of you all!  Here in coastal Maine - we seem to be stuck in a never-ending soggy cycle of rain, drizzle, fog, and unseasonable coolness . . . with ever-so-short bouts of sunshine. Squish, squish, squish . . . as I walk through my water-logged garden soil.  My deep-emerald lawn is growing so fast I can hear it!  What I would give for a week of 60+ degree steady sunshine . . . please send some so we can all dry out up here . . . that is my prayer request for everyone who reads this blog😊  Many thanks!

Well, since I've been craving warmer weather and summery foods, my recent thoughts have turned to ways in which I might brighten my diet, which would also brighten my heavy, down, mood - and one of my favorite foods is the sunny, cheery, sweet mango.  So, after wracking my brain as to what to make, I remembered that I had published a delicious recipe in my best-selling book, Raw Energy In A Glass (Storey Publishing, c2014) . . . called Mango Silkshake (the photo is below - the golden-yellow glass in the lower right, next to the Blackberry Bliss shake).  And, this luscious, mood- and immune-boosting shake is what I'm going to share with you today.  I hope you get as much pleasure from it as I do!  Enjoy!!
 

Mango Silkshake

Pale orange, sensuous in texture, and fabulously scrumptious!  Each silky sip glides over your tongue and makes your taste buds dance with sheer delight.  It's quite filling and delivers energizing and beautifying phytonutrients to help satisfy your daily "wellness quota."

Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups almond, walnut, or cashew milk (recipe on pg. 109 of Raw Energy In A Glass)
- 3 cups frozen mango chunks
- 1 tablespoon raw, unrefined coconut oil
- 1 tablespoon raw honey, coconut syrup, or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon natural vanilla flavoring
- Pinch of sea salt (really enhances all of the flavors)

 
Directions:  Put the nut milk, mango, coconut oil, honey, vanilla, and salt in a blender and puree until smooth and silky, about 30 seconds.  A high-powered blender works best.  Next, pour into glasses or insulated mugs.  This shake is moderate in natural sugars, but loaded with fiber, so be sure to "chew" each sip, mixing well with your saliva so that it digests with ease, or savor slowly by eating with a spoon.



Yield: 2 servings


A good source of:  antioxidants, vitamins C, B, E, and K, potassium, phosphorus, calcium, magnesium, manganese, zinc, iron, other trace minerals, healthy fat, natural sugars, and fiber

Note: Portions of this blog are adapted from Stephanie Tourles' book, "Raw Energy In A Glass" (Storey Publishing c2014).  The information shared here is made without guarantee on the part of the author.  She disclaims any liability in connection with the use of this information.  It is for educational purposes only.

Olive Essentials Facial Oils No. 1 & No. 2

Hello Everyone . . . As some of you know, I formulate exquisite facial oils for Healthy Harvest (an importer of organic olive oils) - using their raw, unrefined, enzyme-rich, silky-smooth Tuscan olive oil.  I just wrote a "guest blog" for their company and wanted to share it with you.  It discusses why I decided to create facial oils for them, why I fell in love with their Tuscan oil, and the benefits of these facial blends.  Everyone should know the "story" behind their skin care . . . at least I think so!  Enjoy!

Please see Stephanie's guest blog post live https://healthyharvests.com/2017/04/why-i-created-he…vest-facial-oils/

Raw Tahitian Mango Ginger Soup: Summer In A Bowl

Healthy Greetings Everyone!  I don't know about you, but I'm craving a taste of summer - BIG TIME!  Here in Maine, Old Man Winter just won't release his tight grip and we're all suffering from cabin fever.  Day after day of gray, cold, dreary dankness continues to haunt our supposed Spring.  Ugh!  Consider yourself fortunate if you live in a warmer, sunnier locale. 

Well, as luck would have it, as I was perusing the produce section of my local grocery store yesterday, I discovered a huge pile of super ripe, incredibly fragrant mangoes (that's rare in these parts) AND organic ginger root (both on sale) . . . two of my favorite tropical foods - so fresh and summery!  I stocked up.  Upon arriving home, I had an "Ahh Ha" moment . . . it suddenly occurred to me that I had a recipe that included these two ingredients and it just happened to be in my best-selling raw food book, Raw Energy: 124 Raw Food Recipes for Energy Bars, Smoothies, and Other Snacks to Supercharge Your Body (Storey Publishing 2009).  I've written so many recipe books that I sometimes forget their contents . . . lol! 

The recipe is called Tahitian Mango Ginger Soup and it's absolutely delish, vibrantly colored, jam-packed with immune-boosting nutrients, and guaranteed to help you shake off winter's funk!  If you already have a copy of my book, the recipe can be found in Chapter 10: Chillin' Fresh, Cold Fruit & Vegetable Soups on pg. 222.  If you love mangoes and unique raw fruit soups . . . give this recipe a try!  It will definitely put "spring in your step" - even if Old Man Winter still wants to linger a bit longer!  Photography by Kevin Kennefick, copyright 2009.

  
Tahitian Mango Ginger Soup

This thick, brilliant yellow-orange soup trumpets an exquisite combination of tropical fruit flavors mingled with a delicate hint of warming spices.  It's guaranteed to supercharge your vitality and quell your appetite.  This soup is also a superior source of digestive enzymes and a fabulous kidney cleanser and mild diuretic, and it helps clear the skin of acne.  Whew!  Tasty, functional food extraordinaire . . . how awesome!!

Ingredients:
- 3 medium ripe mangoes, peeled and pitted (about 3 cups)
- Juice of 1 medium orange, tangerine, or tangelo (about 1/3 cup)
- 1/4 cup purified water
- 2 tablespoons fresh squeezed lime juice
- 1 tablespoon raw honey
- 1 teaspoon ginger root, peeled and minced (add more for a zestier flavor - if you wish)
- 1/4 teaspoon curry powder
- 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
- 3 mint sprigs (optional, for garnish)

Directions:  
1.  Put the mango, orange juice, water, lime juice, honey, ginger, curry powder, and salt in a blender.  Blend on medium until very smooth and relatively thick, about 30-60 seconds.

2.  For the best flavor, chill the soup for at least 4 hours before serving.  Garnish each bowl of soup with a mint sprig, if desired.  Store in a tightly sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 48 hours.

Yield:  3 small servings

A Good Source Of:   antioxidants, potassium, vitamin C, natural sugars, and fiber, and lesser amounts of vitamin K, phosphorus, magnesium, and calcium

NOTE: This blog was written by Stephanie Tourles.  Recipe excerpted from her book, Raw Energy: 124 Raw Food Recipes for Energy Bars, Smoothies, and Other Snacks to Supercharge Your Body (Storey Publishing, 2009).  The author and Storey Publishing disclaim any liability in connection with the use of this information.  

Creating Herbal Aphrodisiacs - Part 2

Aromatic Greetings To Everyone!  Hmmmm . . . . why did I say "aromatic greetings"?  Well, that's because today I'm going to share with you an amazingly fragrant body mist recipe from my latest book, Making Love Potions: 64 All-Natural Recipes for Irresistible Herbal Aphrodisiacs . . . and it's simply going to knock your socks off!  It smells sooooo wonderful, is relatively economical (and quick) to create, and makes a fabulous gift for Valentine's Day, Mother's Day, bridal showers, or anytime you want to gift someone special with a delectable fragrance. You'll love it so much, that you'll definitely want to create one for yourself, too!

As a professional aromatherapist and herbalist, I love "all things fragrant" that are plant-derived and chemical-free.  The recipe I'm going to share with you is one of the most popular in my book and seems to have unisex appeal - it can be found on page 27.  If you don't have a copy of this gorgeously-illustrated book, you'll find it available in most bookstores nationwide as well as through popular book-seller's websites.  

"I Want to Kiss You All Over" Body Mist

Ooh-la-la!  This sumptuous body mist may remind you of fresh-baked doughnuts or perhaps gently spicy snickerdoodle cookies, rich with the aromatics of vanilla bean, sweet orange, ginger, cinnamon, clove, cardamom, and allspice.  Both men and women find these "comfort food fragrances" alluring, so if you want to smell delectable, spritz some on everywhere.  This mist doubles as an enticing spray for the boudoir - a few spritzes on your bedding and pillows imparts a deeply intriguing, aphrodisiacal fragrance.

I often wear this as my daily perfume and it ALWAYS turns heads!  When the essential oils and premium vanilla extract base warm to your body temperature, your skin emanates a most interesting delicious, spicy-sweet aroma!  Enjoy!

Ingredients:

- 8 drops sweet orange or wild sweet orange essential oil
- 4 drops ginger essential oil
- 3 drops cinnamon bark essential oil
- 3 drops clove essential oil
- 2 drops allspice essential oil
- 2 drops cardamom essential oil
- 2 tablespoons vanilla extract, preferably made from Madagascar Bourbon or Tahitian vanilla beans (I really like the vanilla extracts sold by King Arthur Flour www.kingarthurflour.com - exquisite!  OR, make your own using my DIY: Sumptuous Vanilla Extract recipe on pg 31 of my book.)
- 2 tablespoons water 

To Make:  Combine the sweet orange, ginger, cinnamon, clove, allspice, and cardamom essential oils in a 2-ounce dark glass spritzer bottle.  Pour in the vanilla extract and water, screw on the top, and shake vigorously to blend.  Label, then set aside for 24 hours to allow the essential oils to synergize and the fragrance to develop.  Store at room temperature away from heat and light; use within 1 year.

To Use:  Shake well, then spritz anywhere on your body, up to several times per day.  Common sense precautions: keep out of reach of children and pets; do not spray directly into eyes, nose, or mouth.

Yield: Makes about 1/4 cup or 2 ounces

Here are my favorite, tried-and-true, superior-quality, aromatherapeutic essential oil resources:
1.  Simplers Botanicals www.shopsimplers.com
2.  DoTERRA  http://mydoterra.com/stephanietourles  This company has the absolute, most fragrant, freshest, wild sweet orange essential oil I've ever smelled!  If you adore the scent of orange peel . . . please try a bottle!  I always use it in this recipe.

Creating Herbal Aphrodisiacs - Part 1

Hello All . . . Valentine's Day is fast approaching!  Still need a gift for your sweetie?  Or, better yet, a gift that you can share with your lover?  Ooooh la la . . . indeed!  Well, I've got just the ticket.  My latest book, Making Love Potions: 64 All-Natural Recipes for Irresistible Herbal Aphrodisiacs has many suggestions (ruby-red drinks, tasty nibbles, massage oils, perfumes, aromatic spritzers, linen sprays, edible body butters, and more) for creating a most romantic evening.  And, luckily for you, I've just posted two YouTube videos that will demonstrate a couple of easy-to-make recipes to kindle the passion in your relationship.  The Vanilla Spice Body Powder recipe is pleasingly warm, silky, and aromatic on the skin - appeals to both men and women, and the Herbal Energy Balls recipe is tasty, sweet-tart, and builds vitality in your core. 

 
Here are the video links . . . watch, learn, and enjoy!

Herbal Energy Balls  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KrTg50bVLsM

Vanilla Spice Body Powder  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bkjSCrvLPTM&t=2s