2021-12-07T11:57:53+01:00 Zend_Feed_Writer https://www.ecco-verde.co.uk/ Ecco Verde uk@ecco-verde.com https://www.ecco-verde.co.uk/

2021-11-24T00:00:00+01:00 2021-11-24T00:00:00+01:00 https://www.ecco-verde.co.uk/info/beauty-blog/skincare-hero-bakuchiol Ecco Verde uk@ecco-verde.com https://www.ecco-verde.co.uk/ What is bakuchiol? This trendy active ingredient is being highly celebrated in the beauty industry. It is sourced from the leaves and seeds of the Psoralea corylifolia plant. The annual plant is native to India and Sri Lanka where it reaches a height of between 50 - 90 cm with short, condensed pale-purple flowers. Bakuchiol stems from the Sanskrit term for plant: bakuchi or babchi. Psoralea corylifolia has been used in traditional Chinese and Indian medicine for years. The plant contains numerous phytochemicals, including flavonoids, coumarins and meroterpene. Bakuchiol is abundant in antioxidants that protect the skin against pollution and free radicals. Skincare benefits Due to its composition, bakuchiol is a true, gentle and natural alternative to retinol. It is a functional analogue ingredient it similar in structure to retinol without the harsh effects that the latter ingredient may cause. Retinoid is a synthetic yet highly effective version of vitamin A with several anti-aging benefits but should be used with caution. It is simply not suitable for sensitive skin types as it can lead to irritations and cause photosensitivity that results in a phototoxic reaction on the skin. Bakuchiol, on the other hand, is a natural, relatively new skincare active that offers the same benefits as retinol without causing the side effects. Bakuchiol is recommended for: light-induced hyperpigmentation fine lines and wrinkles damage to skin elasticity and skin texture matte, lacklustre complexions acne The natural retinol alternative is well tolerated by the skin - including sensitive skin types. Furthermore, it does not have a photosensitising effect on the skin like its synthetic counterpart. However, it is not advised to expose the skin to the sun without sun protection. UVA rays have been proven to cause skin aging and sun damage . therefore, sunscreen should always be part of your morning skincare ritual - whether tbakuchiol is being applied to the skin or not. Additionally, bakuchiol possesses good photostability which means that the effect of the active ingredient is not inhibited by UV rays. Thanks to the antioxidants contained, bakuchiol protects the skin against free radicals. Bakuchiol works well in conjunction with other active ingredients which is why there are virtually no limitations, to date, to using it in combination with cosmetic products that contain active ingredients. It is merely advised not to use enzyme or acid peels at the same time as this may lead to photosensitivity on the skin. Psoralea corylifolia extract promotes the integrity of the extracellular matrix. It reinforces skin density by firming the connective tissues through stimulating collagen synthesis. At the same, bakuchiol stimulates the regenerative process of the skin which leads to renewed radiance and even skin tone. Pigmentation spots are thus reduced while the complexion takes on a firmer and fresher appearance. Even acne-prone skin can benefit from bakuchiol and is a fantastic alternative to salicylic acid. The active ingredient is active in all four steps of the acne process: it minimises the formation of comedogenic material in the pores, counteracts excess sebum, possesses anti-inflammatory properties and has a positive effect on pigmentation caused by irritation. Bakuchiol in beauty routines Following a consistent and daily beauty routine in its entireity is essential for a beautiful-looking complexion. A mild yet thorough cleansing regime and protection against UV rays are indispensable skincare steps. Bakuchiol is often used in form of serums that are applied after cleansing the skin and prior to using moisturisers. If you are short on time or prefer a more minimalistic approach to your skincare routine, simply mix a few drops of a bakuchiol-based serum to your daily moisturiser or night cream. Follow up with a sunscreen in the morning to preserve the beauty and health of your skin.

2021-09-27T00:00:00+02:00 2021-09-27T00:00:00+02:00 https://www.ecco-verde.co.uk/info/beauty-blog/solid-cosmetics-by-la-saponaria-1 Ecco Verde uk@ecco-verde.com https://www.ecco-verde.co.uk/ We can minimize our environmental impact by opting for natural cosmetics with environmentally friendly packaging or by opting for zero-waste alternatives. But what does zero-waste actually mean and what decisions can each and every one of us make in order to slow down ongoing climate change? We are all familiar with images displaying tons of plastic floating in the ocean and animals that are injured or die as a result of it. It's disturbing images that tell us that the world we live in is being challenged by the way we live and that we need to rethink and change our behaviour so that the situation does not get worse. Fortunately, in recent years, many young people are campaigning for environmental preservation and taking to the streets in peaceful protests in cities around the world to battle climate change. Their call: concrete measures for each individual to minimise the impact on the environment. At the same time, many companies have been working in this direction for years to offer increasingly environmentally friendly products. La Saponaria, an Italian natural cosmetics laboratory, is one of them. Minimising the impact that our daily activities have on the environment is possible and within everyone's reach. It begins with the choice of cosmetics with sustainable packaging. Solid cosmetics free from plastic packaging What we can do is be more mindful about purchasing cosmetics that use as little plastic packaging as possible. Several options are available on the market today. The easiest way is to switch to solid cosmetic alternatives: shampoos, shower gels, or simply bars of soap. These alternatives are in no way inferior to liquid formulas, offering the same, if not more intensive, nourishing and caring properties. Solid cosmetics also include waterless beauty products - face masks and cleansers that are formulated without the use of water. They offer a great advantage in that they are highly concentrated, have less impact on the environment, and are superior to traditional cream products in terms of effectiveness. Less water means more room for active ingredients and forgoing preservatives which are required in all water-based formulas. These product types can be found within the WONDER POP product line and include make-up removers, face masks, face scrubs and hand scrubs. The INNER product line offers a range of solid and natural liquid cosmetics housed in bioplastic packaging - including shampoos and conditioners. Use of solid shampoos Solid shampoos are dehydrated and therefore extremely concentrated. It suffices to moisten your hands slightly to emulsify the shampoo. Rub the bar of shampoo over the hair to distribute the right amount of product. The shampoos are small and compact making them ideal for travel. They can easily be stored in hand luggage without having leakages or quantity restrictions. The only extra precaution needed with solid cosmetics compared to bottled ones is not to leave them near water and to store them on surfaces where they are able to dry quickly, such as soap dishes made of wood or ceramic. Solid shampoos do not require plastic bottles and are also more compact, take up less space and have numerous advantages when it comes to transport. You can wash your hair as often with one truckload of solid shampoos as you would with 15 truckloads of liquid shampoos. More conscious packaging Saying goodbye to plastic also means looking for alternative materials, such as glass or recycled aluminium - materials that can easily be reused in the household and thus upcycled. Bioplastics are a great environmentally friendly material. The term refers to a specific type of plastic made from organic material that is recyclable after use. Green plastics are made from polyethene, a material that is not made from petroleum but from sugar cane and is, therefore, a "bio-based" material. That is, it consists of plant material and does not include any fossil materials or components of fossil origin (coal or oil). When it comes to eco-friendly cosmetics, La Saponaria goes beyond the environmental vision and offers a broader ethical concept of respect for consumers and the planet. Even their selection of raw materials is geared towards preference given to "0 km raw materials" from local cultivation, which are grown according to fair, ethical and environmentally friendly guidelines.

2021-09-06T00:00:00+02:00 2021-09-06T00:00:00+02:00 https://www.ecco-verde.co.uk/info/beauty-blog/hemp-the-versatile-plant Ecco Verde uk@ecco-verde.com https://www.ecco-verde.co.uk/ Hemp as a medicinal plant - The effect of hemp on health Hemp, also known under the names hashish, marijuana or cannabis has had a dubious reputation for years. However, recently the focus has shifted from the plant's psychoactive effects to the importance it has as a source of food or medicinal plant. So far, the Cannabis Sativa plant is known to contain 480 active ingredients and more than 60 cannabinoids. Two of the best known are CBD - cannabidiol - and TCH - tetrahydro cannabidiol. Their effects on the human system could not be more different. But the use of cannabinoids in medicine is so interesting precisely because these active ingredients address special receptors in the body and can act through them. Scientists have found that the human body has its own cannabinoids and binding sites that can determine different processes in the immune and nervous systems as well as many other cells in the body. The body's own cannabinoids are used in the brain, in the immune system, in the bloodstream, as well as in many bodily tissues. When released, they perform a variety of functions. However, these functions are still unknown - they are likely to be involved in the regulation of the immune system, learning processes and pain processing. The medicinal use of hemp is particularly suitable for pain therapy, multiple sclerosis, nausea or vomiting. Products used in these instances are made from a wide variety of plant parts. THC versus CBD The cannabinoid most frequently found in the hemp plant, which is also the main psychoactive component, is THC. As such, it can have effects on the human psyche. The type of plant determines whether cannabis can have an intoxicating or calming effect on humans - as a result, the consumer is then either "high" or "stoned" which characterises it as an addictive or narcotic drug. Products containing TCH are generally prohibited in most countries. The second most common cannabinoid from hemp plants is CBD. Unlike the former, it has no psychoactive effect and influences completely different receptors, such as those for adenosine or serotonin. These two can play a role in regulating body temperature and the sensation of pain. CBD is also increasingly used as an active ingredient in cosmetics and beauty care. It is now known that CBD and THC interact with each other within the body, including the fact that CBD can weaken or even cancel out the psychoactive effects of THC. However, CBD products may only contain a restricted amount of THC that is prescribed by the EU. Hemp products, such as oil, protein, nuts or leaves that are offered as food are prohibited from containing any psychoactive components. Hemp in cosmetics or as a food source The healthiest fats for the body are polyunsaturated fatty acids, such as omega-3 or omega-6 fatty acids. Since they cannot be produced by the body itself, it is essential to consume them with food. They are important for the connective tissue, hormonal balance, the immune system, the efficiency of the brain, breathing, nerves, heart and circulation, and the skin - in short, polyunsaturated fatty acids are essential for the whole body. Hemp is currently the only plant known to science that contains such a high proportion of polyunsaturated fatty acids. Hemp oil and seeds contain more than 80% polyunsaturated fatty acids. The human metabolism depends on the ratio of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids so that the organism can use them optimally. The composition of hemp oil has a ratio of 3: 1 (omega-6 to omega-3) and is therefore near to perfect for the human body. These are joined by omega-9 fatty acids and the rare but also particularly valuable gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) for the body. This composition makes hemp oil the most balanced oil known to science today. The proteins that can be extracted from hemp are also extremely rich in nutrients. They are particularly easy to digest, contain a lot of fibre and are also alkaline. In addition, the composition of amino acids is near to optimal, contains the above-mentioned essential fatty acids, numerous minerals, trace elements and vitamins. Source: SAINT CHARLES Apothecary https://saint-charles.eu/

2021-08-23T00:00:00+02:00 2021-08-23T00:00:00+02:00 https://www.ecco-verde.co.uk/info/beauty-blog/aromakids-farfalla-1 Ecco Verde uk@ecco-verde.com https://www.ecco-verde.co.uk/ Young and older children, each with their own characteristics, emotions and mannerisms. The way in which they face life can be so different - and they (as well as their parents) face different challenges. Essential oils are effective helpers that can uplift the mood or soothe, boost concentration, strengthen and enhance relaxation when children are emotionally overwhelmed, insecure or restless: When they are separated from their parents for the first time, need to focus at school or master exams. Others are innately excited or fidgety and need help to calm down. After farfalla launched their own farfalla baby line in 2019 with the slogan "from parents to parents", the range has been expanded this year with wonderful fragrance helpers for older children: whether they are kindergarten children, first graders or teenagers - children, in particular, are very sensitive and therefore also sensitive to fragrances. They have a positive reaction to sensual stimuli of essential oils and respond unbiasedly toward them. With the expertise of four decades of aromatherapy, farfalla has developed 3 ready-to-use, 100% natural aromacare products for kids. In addition, the Aromakids fragrance companions convey an important feeling when slipped into the child's pencil case: "I am always there for you". Using essential oils for school Firstly, define which topic your child needs the most support with. Think about what likes and dislikes the child has (dispises chamomile tea, loves grapefruits or lavender in the garden, etc.) Children often find the right aroma helper by sniffing them themselves - offer them a small selection of essential oils Concentration-enhancing & invigorating essential oils for school and homework: For example, bergamot, peppermint (not under the age of 6), lemon, bergamot mint or the Aromakids Fragrance Blend "Fond of Focus". Small comfort to get you through tough times at school and exam anxiety: For example, lavender true, Roman chamomile and Roman chamomile Swiss selection, neroli or the Aromakids roll-on "Calm down" (practical: can be used directly and undiluted on the skin) Confidence boosters for self-confidence, courage & a good mood: For example, blood orange, tangerine red, Himalayan cedar Relaxation blends that help calm children down after a stressful day: For example, lavender true, mandarin (low dosage), lemon balm or neroli (orange blossom), bergamot mint essential oils or the ready-made Aromakids organic room spray "sweet dreams" The selected essential oils can be used in a recipe mixture (see below), as a fragrant scent companion (inhaler stick, aroma stone, handkerchief) or as a room fragrance An inhaler stick or a scented handkerchief is small enough to fit into pencil cases. Fragrance lamps and diffusers are great at exuding the wonderful essential oils at the perfect dosage whilst the child is completing their homework or experiencing discomfort in the evening. Aromatherapy application tips for school children In a fragrance lamp during study time/homework (1-3 drops) In an inhaler stick or a scented handkerchief for independent use during class (3 drops) As a bath additive in the evening (for example: encouragement, fear and relaxation), emulsify 4-6 drops of essential oil in 3 tablespoons of DIY shower gel/bubble bath or cream, add to the bathwater Create your own mixtures using essential oils with the right properties, e.g. also as an abdominal massage oil, foot oil (0.5% dilution = 1 to 2 drops of essential oil to 15 ml of plant oil) As a fragrant roll-on for localised applications on the skin: 10 ml organic jojoba oil (because of its durability - other oils go rancid quickly) plus 2-4 drops of essential oil (selection suitable for children see above) Dos and don'ts of aromatherapy for children Use first-class organic quality instead of cheap "aromatic oils" High-quality essential oils are always declared with a botanical name, part of the plant, extraction method, cultivation method, country of origin, certification body etc. and a description (100% natural essential oil). Look for organic quality or organic wild collection. Good essential oils have their price (because of the complex extraction and production processes used to obtain them). Suitability for children Children are not little adults - certain essential oils, which are unproblematic and helpful for adults, can be dangerous for children's nerve cells or the respiratory tract. Here it is not enough to simply adjust the adult dosage. Oils containing menthol and camphor, such as all mints (except bergamot mint), camphor and rosemary, sage, hyssop, wintergreen and eucalyptol are not suitable for children. The right dosage Only in a child-friendly dilution in organic plant oil (e.g. almond oil or St. John's wort oil), organic plant water or alcohol (not for babies) can the selected essential oil now be applied to the skin. 1 to 2 drops of essential oil to 1 tablespoon (15 ml) of plant oil, corresponds to the dilution of 0.5% recommended for children. Only trust reputable recipes from responsible sources - simply adding a few drops can often be too much in a mixture.

2021-08-19T00:00:00+02:00 2021-08-19T00:00:00+02:00 https://www.ecco-verde.co.uk/info/beauty-blog/lets-talk-eyeliner Ecco Verde uk@ecco-verde.com https://www.ecco-verde.co.uk/ Eyeliners have become an indispensable part of today's make-up game. Basically, anything goes, nothing has to. If you have narrow eyes (that means the eyes are close together) and you want to rock the foxy look, go for it! The following explanations only serve as a small guideline and help you to accentuate your eyes in the best possible way. Let's start! The Tightline: A narrow line along your lash line makes your lashes look fuller without attracting much attention. Any eye shape can wear it. The Classic: Here you extend your Tightline a little outwards and thus create a small but fine wing. This visually lengthens your eye a little, but not too dramatically. Suitable for every eye shape and for every occasion. The Bold: Now it's getting dramatic. The boldliner is particularly suitable for cat-eye lovers and looks particularly beautiful when combined with a nude lip. This eyeliner technique is more suitable for almond-shaped and round eyes with a more visible lid surface. With drooping eyelids, the wing could go under due to the excess of skin. C-Wing: The eyeliner for drooping eyelids and deep-set eyes: For this eyeliner technique, start with the wing and look straight ahead in the mirror. Next, you connect your wing in a C-shape with your upper lash line. Yes, with your eyes closed, your liner may look a little different than you are used to. But with the eye open everyone can see your wing, which is often not possible with deep-set eyes or drooping eyelids, as the skin hangs over them. This eyeliner is particularly suitable for deep-set eyes and drooping eyelids. If the lid surface is much more visible, the C-shape would be too visible, so we would recommend a weaker form of the bold wing here. Foxy Eyes: It's getting trendy! Lengthening the inner corner of the eye will make your eyes look longer. This is particularly suitable for round and/or small eyes and also visually draws your eyes closer to each other, which is why particularly wide eyes benefit from this technique. If the eyes are narrow, we recommend not drawing the inner wing too long and slightly highlighting the inner corner so that the eyes are not optically drawn further inwards. Smokey Liner: The softer version of the eyeliner. Use your favourite gel eyeliner for this and blend it out with a fluffy brush. This liner is suitable for every eye shape and suits every occasion. Smokey Outer V: This is where the lower outer lash line is connected to the upper eyeliner. This ensures larger eyes and a cat-eye effect, from which particularly narrow eyes benefit, as it visually pulls the eyes apart. Wide eyes should possibly combine this technique with a Foxy Wing inside. The Smokey Outer V also looks great with drooping eyelids. Reverse Cat-Eye: The Next Trend Eyeliner. With the Reverse Cat Eye, the name says it all, you paint your cat-eye wing on the lower instead of your upper lash line, which makes for a very interesting look. This liner is particularly recommended for drooping eyelids, as the entire wing is visible. For drooping eyes (the outer corner of the eye is lower than the inner corner), we would advise against this eyeliner, as it can emphasise the drooping shape even more. We are very happy that you can emphasise your upper and lower lashline in so many ways. With this in mind, we wish you a lot of fun with Wing-ing! You can find our extensive range of eyeliner here. The products that our make-up artist Sarah used are listed on the right.

2021-08-05T00:00:00+02:00 2021-08-05T00:00:00+02:00 https://www.ecco-verde.co.uk/info/beauty-blog/iris-anti-ageing-prebiotic-by-farfalla-1 Ecco Verde uk@ecco-verde.com https://www.ecco-verde.co.uk/ As a woman, roughly speaking, you go through three phases in your life: The first phase lasts from birth to the onset of puberty. The second begins with the first menstrual cycle and ends with the last. This is followed by the third phase of life, menopause. However, this last phase is often not as eagerly anticipated as the second. It is usually only perceived as a loss when the self-perception as a woman begins to waver and everything is subject to change: the role as a mother, the external appearance and perhaps also professional tasks. It is a time of change in which new goals are defined, womanhood is reaccessed and a new rhythm of life is sought. It is not only easy, but also very tempting to counteract the dwindling youth with hormone intake, lifting or cosmetic injections. For those women who choose the natural route, essential oils offer effective support: be it for balancing mood swings, hot flashes or a changing complexion. Like a butterfly, our skin undergoes a metamorphosis every 30 days. But with age, this process slows down and the skin becomes drier with the decreasing estrogen level, loses its elasticity and wrinkles appear. In addition, the skin becomes thinner and increasingly prone to pigmentation spots. Fortunately, natural cosmetic active ingredients can stimulate the activity of the skin and thus alleviate the signs of aging. That is why farfalla uses essential oils, not only for sensual well-being, but also as deeply effective active ingredients in cosmetics. Four decades of experience in the field of aromatherapy form the basis to be able to use the active principle of selected essential oils for the regeneration cycle of the skin. Precious essential oils and cold-pressed organic plant oils are combined with hydrolates rich in active ingredients, natural cosmetic active ingredients, such as prebiotics and hyaluronic acid, thus ensuring regeneration, tightening and firming effects. The skin flora is the protective shield for the health of the skin The skin surface is colonised by countless bacteria and microbes - this is known as the skin flora or microbiome. They form a symbiosis on the skin and are essential for its health, protect against harmful microbes and environmental influences, strengthen the immune system and skin barrier, and improve the skin's moisture balance. This also counteracts skin aging. The balance of the skin flora is promoted by natural prebiotic cosmetics by promoting the living conditions of useful skin bacteria and stimulating their activity, thus ensuring the desired anti-aging effect. This also protects the skin flora and keeps it in balance. At the same time, the peeling process is accelerated and thus ensures a more radiant complexion, while skin density is promoted. Iris Anti-Aging Prebiotic Face Care Line for mature and very mature skin from menopause Iris essential oil not only has an enchanting scent and intensive cleansing properties, but also offers effective anti-aging performance. It has a regenerative, cell-protecting effect and slows down the aging process of the skin. As a key ingredient, it ensures deeply effective regeneration of mature skin while the natural active ingredient complex with highly effective prebiotics provides the skin with intensive moisture and noticeably improves the skin structure, supports the mature skin flora, maintains its moisture and tightens the facial contours.

2021-06-07T00:00:00+02:00 2021-06-07T00:00:00+02:00 https://www.ecco-verde.co.uk/info/beauty-blog/cose-della-natura-natural-sponges Ecco Verde uk@ecco-verde.com https://www.ecco-verde.co.uk/ What exactly are natural sponges? There are many bath, body and face sponges used for beauty purposes on the market today. Most of them are man-made, i.e. synthetically produced. However, natural sponges with their numerous advantages, shapes and characteristic properties outweigh the synthetic counterparts. Natural sponges have been used as skincare tools for centuries, if not millennia. They are not obtained from the elastic, absorbent skeletons of the Spongia officinalis and its relatives - these are multi-porous sea creatures. Most sponges are somewhat similar to corals and are grown in so-called sponge banks at a depth of up to 40 meters. The best and softest sponges are sourced from the Mediterranean. Sponges are considered sustainable products because they grow back after they have been picked. When the sponges are collected, the divers take care to preserve the base of the sponge. This sets a natural reproduction in motions and allows the sponges to grow back to their original size within a few years; often bigger and healthier than before. Studies show that areas of harvesting increase their density of sponges. Cose della Natura natural sponges are sourced from the Mediterranean, in the Adriatic Sea in particular, and are harvested there with the greatest possible care and caution because it is in the brand's greatest interest to ensure the long-term sustainability of the sea sponges in their natural environment. Why natural sponges are the best choice for skin cleansing Compared to other cleansing tools, sponges have natural antiseptics properties - neither mould nor bacteria can develop as long as it is rinsed well after each use. It also contains iodine and sea salt, which offer natural benefits and have a detoxifying effect. Its unique texture allows a thorough, pore-refining cleanse as well as a gentle mechanical peeling at the same time which does not irritate the skin. In addition, the sponges are hypoallergenic and yet extremely resistant. What can a natural sponge be used for? make-up removal for the face and eyes daily facial cleansing removal of masks, scrubs and other care products applying toner and tonics massage and gentle exfoliation of the skin Sponges sourced from the ocean are easy to clean because they have a system of inner micro-channels that is more or less self-cleaning and cannot be reproduced. This means that the sponge is basically good as new with each use. Thanks to its suppleness and its properties, which keep it unchanged over time, the natural sponge is also ideal for skin types with special needs, such as sensitivity, atopic dermatitis, acne, psoriasis or eczema. Why use a Cose della Natura sponge? The use of skin-cleansing tools is considered fundamental for a healthy and beautiful complexion. Dirt particles cannot be effective enough by only using the hands. Proper cleansing methods is the first step towards healthy skin. Even the best skincare products cannot be absorbed as they should if the skin is insufficiently cleansed making them less effective. Types of sponges and how to tell them apart There are four types of sponge based on two criteria: 1. Size of the pores: fine-pored sponges large-pore sponges 2. Processing method used: washed sponges - they are a little firmer and provide exfoliation bleached sponges - heavier processing methods make them softer Cose della Natura offers four types of sponges based on these two criteria: Bleached silk sponges: soft and perfect for sensitive skin, as well as the eye area. This type is perfect for make-up removal. It is also available in a baby care version for the little ones. Its high surface weight also makes it the perfect tool for cleansing, particularly demanding skin. Washed silk sponges: ideal for skin types without any special concerns or for all those who prefer a light, daily peeling effect. Thanks to their resistance, they are particularly recommended for removing masks or scrubs. They massage and stimulate the skin's microcirculation particularly well in the shower. Bleached honeycomb sponges: extremely soft and massages the skin at the same time. They are ideal for daily cleansing, even when no make-up is worn. The sponges caress the body in the shower and create a generous lather with just a few drops of cleansing lotion. Washed honeycomb sponges: they are stronger than the bleached version, making it the perfect accessory for removing face masks. Resistant and yet soft at the same time, these sponges are a true luxury accessory for the skin. Durable & easy to clean After use, a natural sponge should be rinsed out thoroughly and left to dry in a dry, well-ventilated place. There should be no soap residue left in the sponge, as this would destroy it over time. It is also recommended to soak a sea sponge in warm water with a teaspoon of baking soda overnight every three months to deeply cleanse it - it will look like new again after doing so. However, natural sponges should not be boiled or washed in the washing machine! It is best to replace a sponge after a year of use. Find the perfect natural sponges by Cose della Natura here

2021-06-01T00:00:00+02:00 2021-06-01T00:00:00+02:00 https://www.ecco-verde.co.uk/info/beauty-blog/pai-skincare-carbon-star Ecco Verde uk@ecco-verde.com https://www.ecco-verde.co.uk/ Carbon Star, the latest Pai Skincare creation, is a black facial oil created to restore balance to blemished skin types overnight, giving new meaning to beauty sleep. Thanks to organic black seed oil and plant-based activated carbon, the COSMOS Organic certified oil works overnight to help skin recover as you sleep. An innovative formula that nurtures the skin during its regenerative phase to visibly boost smoothness for a pleasant appearance first thing in the morning. Active ingredients: Organic black seed oil Perfect for clogged pores and blemished skin. Also known as nigella, the oil has been valued for its special properties for more than 2000 years. The clarifying oil is rich in vitamins, carotenes, antioxidants, enzymes, fatty acids, iron and carbohydrates. It keeps acne-causing bacteria in check, smoothes fine lines and can also be used for pigmentation disorders. Botanical activated carbon The active ingredient has skin-clarifying effects and binds toxins, impurities and excess sebum. In addition, it offers a light peeling effect that removes dead skin cells and stimulates regeneration. Organic oil complex A mixture of different precious, antioxidant oils such as andiroba, copaiba and acai prevents inflammation, supports the skin during the scarring process and regulates sebum production. The brand Since 2007, Pai Skincare has been developing high-quality natural cosmetics for everyone who wants to give their skin its best - no matter how sensitive it may be. Only the best ingredients are used without compromise, which is why certification by the Soil Association according to the COSMOS-standard is very important. At the same time, the brand bears the seal of the Vegan Society and the Leaping Bunny certifications. Pai products are also independently tested to ensure that they are also suitable for sensitive skin and skin prone to atopic dermatitis. Discover Pai Skincare here.

2021-05-21T00:00:00+02:00 2021-05-21T00:00:00+02:00 https://www.ecco-verde.co.uk/info/beauty-blog/eco-friendly-packaging-a-new-generation Ecco Verde uk@ecco-verde.com https://www.ecco-verde.co.uk/ Cartons and outer packaging cannot be avoided. Whether it be a shipping box or protective packaging for glass containers - they are a necessary evil that is the better alternative to plastic packaging. But, should we be content with this? Carton & paper - a few facts Did you know that Europe uses nearly 77.5 million tons of paper and cardboard a year? It is estimated that the annual per capita consumption of paper (in Germany and Austria) lies at 250 kg. In order to produce this quantity alone, one would need 550 kg of wood, 1,300 kWh of energy and up to 13,000 litres of water. That's a lot for just one person. Fortunately, paper and cardboard are recyclable, but recycling also requires a lot of energy. So, what if one could produce biodegradable cardboard packaging using less energy consumption? Some people have asked themselves this question and tried to take outer packaging to a new level: more resource-conserving, more sustainable and more environmentally friendly. And, the results are in: packaging made from grass paper! What is grass paper? Grass paper is uniquely natural and, as the name suggests, consists of sun-dried grass with a percentage of waste paper. Green cuttings are used, which occur in areas not used for agriculture and are therefore the perfect raw material. Don't worry, that doesn't mean that this grass is withheld from animals. An "agriculturally unused area" is exactly what the term suggests: It is neither used for cultivation nor for animal feed - so it is just meadow. But that too has to be looked after. The grass for the cardboard boxes grows in local meadows near manufacturing paper mills - this saves on transport routes and costs, which are known to be considerably high in respect to wood. The best thing about it: grass also grows much faster than wood! Resource-conserving & more environmentally friendly Grass is naturally softer and therefore requires much less energy, water and chemicals to produce paper. One ton of paper made from wood pulp requires thousands of litres of water whereas only 2 litres of water is needed to produce the same amount of grass paper - that makes a considerable difference! Furthermore, CO2 emissions are reduced by 75% when producing grass paper. Not only is this attributed to the shorter transport routes, but also the fact that chemicals, such as mineral oil, are not required for the production thereof. If you compare two or more of the pretty cardboard boxes, you will notice that not only does each one have a unique pattern, but also that they smell of freshly mown grass. In addition, grass paper is not only pretty, but it is also recyclable and biodegradable. Composting is a great way to avoid trash in your home. The process turns waste into nutrient-rich soil, which in turn can be used in the garden. Important: be sure to remove any labels that are glued onto the box before composting it. Here you can find our brands that already using grass paper packaging.

2021-05-06T00:00:00+02:00 2021-05-06T00:00:00+02:00 https://www.ecco-verde.co.uk/info/beauty-blog/working-from-home-with-pukka Ecco Verde uk@ecco-verde.com https://www.ecco-verde.co.uk/ Stay active When seated in one position for a prolonged period of time, especially when slouched in front of a laptop, the body becomes stiff and the muscles begin to ache. Stand up and move around the room at regular intervals. Integrate small exercising sessions into your workday or use the time to do some stretching whilst making a cup of tea. Set a timer as a reminder to take short breaks to exercise. Also, check your posture regularly and correct it when necessary. Herbal favourites for the physically active: turmeric root and ginger are the heroes of the Organic Turmeric Active and Three Ginger Organic Herbal Teas, as well as the Organic Ginger Joy Latte and Organic Turmeric Active Supplements. At-home routines Find a suitable routine and spread out your working hours to stay relaxed: a set routine helps to manage stress and anxiety whilst defining work and leisure time. Start your day at around the same time every day (an ideal time is 7 am) and awaken your mind with a few minutes of meditation. A 20-minute walk or a few sun salutations can do wonders to ground the mind and recharge the body. Schedule in set meal times to support digestion, giving your body time to adjust to them. Plan out your work tasks each day. Stay realistic in this aspect, splitting them up into smaller tasks. This will make the day more manageable and allows you to celebrate small successes. A little ritual can help to separate your workday from your leisure time, especially since there is no need to commute to work. Tidy up your workspace and put the laptop away, especially if you are working from your bedroom or living room. Companion for a strong mind: Ashwagandha root is highly valued in India. It is contained in the Organic Night Time and Peace Herbal Teas as well as the Organic Night Time Latte. The Organic Aswagandha Wholistic Food Supplement contain high-quality, organic ashwangandha powder and iodine that calms the nerves. Get sufficient sleep Despite the current situation, it is advised to follow a regular sleep routine and wake up at the same time each day. The most important factor pertaining a regular sleeping pattern is sunlight - as soon as it hits the retina it sends a signal to the body indicating that it is time to take action. Exposure yourself to as much sunlight as possible in the morning. If it is not possible to enjoy the outdoors, open the window and bathe in the morning sunrays. Avoiding consuming large meals in the evening that deprive the body from sleep. Switch off the television, mobile devices or any other electronic gadgets. The blue light keeps you awake artificially. Instead, opt for a good read, listen to music or write a few lines in a journal. Herbal heroes for a peaceful slumber: Lavender, chamomile and valerian naturally lulls the body to sleep. The Organic Night Time Herbal Tea, Organic Night Time Latte and Organic Night Time Food Supplements are great for boosting sleep naturally. Stay focused Working from home means that we spend more time in front of a laptop screen because we aren't taking breaks to chat to a colleague or attend a meeting. Small mini breaks can help your mind stay focused and keep stress levels low. Now is a good time to explore new ways of managing your time. For example, have you ever heard of the pomodoro technique? It suggests working with the time that we have instead of fighting against it. Productivity is boosted when splitting the workday into 25-minute increments with 5-minute breaks. Plants & herbs for clear thoughts: Tulsi is supposed to create space in all the hustle and bustle of every day life and is therefore considered a sacred component in India. The Organic Tulsi Clarity Tea unfolds into an aromatic delight. For enhanced clarity and focus, turmeric and iodine have been combined in the Organic Turmeric Brainwave Food Supplement which contributes to the normal functioning of the cognitive system. Keep your digestion going Our digestion, or more precisely, the microbiome, has an impact on our overall well-being. Ayurvedic teaching has been familiar with this connection for thousands of years. Ayurvedic teachings have always looked at the digestive tract of its patients in order to be able to draw conclusions about their general well-being. We now know that 70% to 80% of our immune cells are located in our digestive tract. That makes sense because, after all, we ingest the majority of foreign particles with the food we consume, etc. The natural bacterial community in the intestine, our microbiome, helps with digestion, fights pathogens and trains our immune system. So by strengthening our digestive tract, we also support our immune system. Herbs for a “happy belly”: Anise, fennel and cardamom are ideal for a fresh start and the heroes in the Organic Feel New Herbal Tea. Triphala is an Ayurvedic three-fruit recipe composed of amla, bibhitaki and haritaki, and is highly valued in Ayurveda. The Organic Triphala Plus Food Supplement complements it with the likes of psyllium husks and golden linseed to gently support the inner system. Caffeine - swap coffee for green tea Caffeine doesn't have to be bad for us as long as we pay attention to the source we get it from. Most of us are faced with a high level of stress in our daily lives. When we feel tired or drained - often as a direct result of all the stress - we often resort to coffee for an energy boost. However, high doses of caffeine and other stimulating substances in coffee can cause the body to produce more stress hormones and make our stress response even stronger. Sustainable changes No matter which resolutions appeal to you, remember that you can always set small, achievable goals for yourself every day. Imagine that your purpose is a seed that you have sown. You firmly believe that it will germinate and flourish. Even if your long-term goal is unclear, completing these small tasks on a daily basis will help amplify positivity, clarity, and confidence in the direction that you are moving towards. Remember, this is about reconnecting with yourself. So take the time to do what makes you happy.