Mint and Citrus Natural Lip Balm Recipe

For most of the country, winter’s here in full force. And that means dry skin—particularly dry, chapped lips. Or does it? Get ready to jump for joy at my brand-new Mint and Citrus Natural Lip Balm Recipe.

It’s moisturizing and refreshing—all the things a wintertime natural lip balm recipe should be! But it also comes with some amazing benefits for your lips and even your overall health.

First, it contains coconut oil, which is known to naturally contain anti-microbial properties. In fact, studies have shown that coconut oil contains certain anti-viral properties known to help prevent and fight cold sores! [1]

Additionally, many other studies have reported the beneficial use of coconut oil for overall skin health, including treating dermal infections and reducing the use of antibiotics! [2]

While coconut oil is a great all-natural moisturizer, shea butter was also included in this Mint and Citrus Natural Lip Balm Recipe, since it’s been proven to lock moisture into the skin and protect it from drying out. [3]

Second, this natural lip balm recipe also contains powerful essential oils that offer a myriad of health benefits.

In addition to boosting mental focus, the peppermint oil in this lip balm also boosts energy and has even been shown to help fight fatigue. [4]

Also, a groundbreaking study revealed that when 40 volunteers smelled peppermint oil, it improved their alertness, focus, and concentration. [5]

Meanwhile, the lemon essential oil in this Mint and Citrus Natural Lip Balm Recipe also benefits your physical and mental health by helping to relieve stress. Researchers have gone so far as to say that it has anxiety-relieving, antidepressant-like effects. [6]

But that’s not all. One of my favorite lemon essential oil benefits is its ability to help enhance concentration, mood, and even creativity. [7]

One study on 56 healthy adults revealed that lemon essential oil significantly enhanced positive moods and elevated their norepinephrine levels—and immune function. [8]

These effects occurred due to lemon oil’s ability to help modulate serotonin and dopamine receptors the brain.

As you can see, this Mint and Citrus Natural Lip Balm Recipe really offers a lot of health benefits—especially for something that only takes about five minutes to put together! So, keep reading to get this incredible DIY natural lip balm.

Mint and Citrus Natural Lip Balm Recipe

Time: 5 minutes

Makes: about 2 ounces

Ingredients

2 tablespoons coconut oil

1 tablespoon castor oil

1 tablespoon shea butter

4-5 drops lemon essential oil

4-5 drops tangerine essential oil

4-5 drops peppermint essential oil

Directions

1. In a pot, combine the coconut oil, castor oil, and shea butter. Warm over medium heat, whisking often until completely combined.

2. Remove from the heat and add in the essential oils. Stir to combine.

3. Pour into a small airtight container with a lid. (Try using an old mint tin for an easy upcycle!)

4. Transfer the container to the refrigerator to set for 2 to 3 hours.

5. Apply a small amount to clean lips with a brush or clean fingertip.

DIY Daily Almond Oil Moisturizer for Dry Skin

Winter months can leave your skin dry, itchy, and peeling, which is uncomfortable and sometimes completely miserable. If you find this is the case, check out my DIY Daily Almond Oil Moisturizer for Dry Skin.

Specially made for delicate skin, such as your face, this moisturizer is also intense enough to hydrate dry skin anywhere on your body. And that’s thanks to the sweet almond and rosehip seed oils.

First, studies have shown that sweet almond oil not only helps to protect the integrity of your skin’s barrier, but also contains anti-aging properties. Meanwhile, the rosehip seed oil contains antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. [1]

Specifically, sweet almond oil was found to be more effective at improving the itching and progression of stretch marks. [2] Other studies also confirmed that using almond oil topically prevented structural skin damage caused by UV exposure. [3]

Additionally, one study revealed that combining rosehip seed oil with fat-soluble vitamins was effective against inflammatory skin conditions, including eczema, neurodermatitis (itching, scaling skin), and cheilitis (inflamed, itchy lips). [4]

Finally, the lavender essential oil in this DIY Daily Almond Oil Moisturizer for Dry Skin also contains antioxidant and anti-microbial properties, meaning it may be able to help certain skin irritations, such as acne.

Amazingly, lavender oil has also been shown to help reduce stress and was even effective at reducing the severity off migraine headaches in as little as 15 minutes! [5]

So, let’s not wait any longer to dive into this recipe. You’re only three ingredients and five minutes away from having your favorite new moisturizer on hand!

DIY Daily Almond Oil Moisturizer for Dry Skin

Makes: 1.5 oz

Time: 5 minutes

Ingredients

2 tablespoons sweet almond oil

1 tablespoon rosehip seed oil

5 drops lavender essential oil

Directions

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the almond oil, rosehip seed oil, and lavender essential oil.

2. Use a funnel to transfer the mixture into a dark glass bottle with a dropper or pump top.

3. Clean your face, then pat dry. Place 2-3 drops of the almond oil moisturizer on your fingertips. Apply to your face with fingertips in a circular motion.

DIY Daily Almond Oil Moisturizer for Dry Skin

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Total Time 5 mins

Servings 1.5 oz

Ingredients

2 tbsp sweet almond oil
1 tbsp rosehip seed oil
5 drops lavender essential oil

Instructions

In a small bowl, whisk together the almond oil, rosehip seed oil, and lavender essential oil.
Use a funnel to transfer the mixture into a dark glass bottle with a dropper or pump top.
Clean your face, then pat dry. Place 2-3 drops of the almond oil moisturizer on your fingertips. Apply to your face with fingertips in a circular motion.

Need an Easy, Fun Homemade Gift Idea? Try This DIY Winter Lip Scrub Recipe with Rose and Lemon!

Looking for a truly unique gift this holiday season—one that’s not only made with love but will be loved by the recipient? Check out my go-to DIY Winter Lip Scrub Recipe with Rose and Lemon!

If you’ve ever used a lip scrub, you know how refreshing and beneficial it is. And if you haven’t, well, you’re in for a treat!

So, what are the benefits of using a lip scrub? Well, first, using a homemade lip scrub recipe such as this one will help keep your lips free of dry, peeling skin. After all, no one likes the look or feel of chapped lips in the winter, right?

This DIY Lip Scrub Recipe with Rose and Lemon contains exfoliating sugar, sea salt, and lemon to help slough off dead skin cells and leave your lips feeling smooth.

Another benefit? This lip scrub recipe contains coconut oil, which is known to help hydrate skin and keep it free of pathogens.

In fact, studies have shown that coconut oil contains anti-microbial properties known to help prevent and fight cold sores! [1]

Additionally, this lip scrub recipe contains vitamin E, which is an antioxidant—meaning it helps to protect your cells from further damage. [2] So, using this lip scrub will help protect your lips from becoming chapped in the first place. How great is that?

Finally, the rose petals featured in this DIY Lip Scrub Recipe with Rose and Lemon is known to contain anti-inflammatory properties, which helps to reduce redness and irritation. [3]

Perhaps one of the best features of this lip scrub recipe is that it makes the perfect holiday gift! It’s coming to you just in time to combat common winter skin problems, and makes a beautiful, thoughtful gift.

All it takes is a few jars, some gift tags, and about 10 minutes of your time!

So, what are you waiting for? Whip up a batch of this, give it a try, and then make some for your closest friends and family members. It’s the gift that keeps on giving!

DIY Winter Lip Scrub Recipe with Rose and Lemon

Time: 10 minutes

Makes: 1 cup

Ingredients

2 tablespoons dried rose petals

½ lemon

¼ cup granulated cane sugar

¼ cup brown sugar

2 tablespoons sea salt

2 tablespoons coconut oil

1 teaspoon vitamin E oil

5 small jars with lids

Directions

For assembly:

1. Finely chop the dried rose petals.

2. In a medium bowl, zest and juice the lemon.

3. Add the sugar, brown sugar, salt, chopped rose petals, coconut oil, and vitamin E oil to the bowl. Stir to combine.

4. Divide the mixture between the jars. Affix a tag with directions for use.

For use:

1. Apply a small amount to clean lips. Gently rub in a circular motion, exfoliating your lips to remove dry skin.

2. Rinse with warm water.

3. Reuse as needed, up to 2 to 3 times per week.

Tip: 1.5-ounce mason jars are perfect for packaging these gifts!

DIY Winter Lip Scrub Recipe with Rose and Lemon

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Total Time 10 mins

Servings 1 cup

Ingredients

2 tbsp dried rose petals
1/2 lemon
1/4 cup granulated cane sugar
1/4 cup brown sugar
2 tbsp sea salt
2 tbsp coconut oil
1 tsp vitamin E oil
5 mall jars with lids

Instructions

For assembly:

Finely chop the dried rose petals.
In a medium bowl, zest and juice the lemon.
Add the sugar, brown sugar, salt, chopped rose petals, coconut oil, and vitamin E oil to the bowl. Stir to combine.
Divide the mixture between the jars. Affix a tag with directions for use.

For use:

Apply a small amount to clean lips. Gently rub in a circular motion, exfoliating your lips to remove dry skin.
Rinse with warm water.
Reuse as needed, up to 2 to 3 times per week.

Notes

Tip: 1.5-ounce mason jars are perfect for packaging these gifts!

Dr. Pingel's 5 Best All-Natural Beauty Products

Confused on where to get the best all-natural beauty products? I get it!

If you've visited a department store, beauty store, or even perused Amazon for products recently, you know there's no shortage of natural beauty products on the market. But where can you find the best all-natural beauty products—and know that you're getting the most value for your money?

As a woman, I want to know that the beauty products I’m using are effective. And as a naturopathic physician, I want to know that they’re non-toxic and organic.

After all, your skin is your largest organ, and it takes only 26 seconds for chemicals to enter your skin and go straight into your bloodstream! [1, 2]

That’s why it’s so important to prioritize clean, non-toxic options. But that doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice effectiveness.

So, before this holiday season, check out my personal favorite products—the best all-natural beauty products I’ve found after years of trial and error.

I hope you treat yourself and those you love this year with these doctor-approved brands and at-home treatments! Enjoy!

Dr. Pingel's 5 Best All-Natural Beauty Products

Here are five of the best all-natural beauty products that I use on a regular basis, along with a quick description on what I love about them and where to get them.

1. Eminence Bamboo Firming Fluid

If you’re looking for a firming treatment that also moisturizes, you’re going to want to check out Eminence Bamboo Firming Fluid.

This firming treatment is absolutely one of the best all-natural beauty products I’ve ever tried! As a natural retinol alternative, it helps to smooth the appearance of wrinkles. But it also provides many vitamins and minerals along with antioxidants.

My favorite benefit? It moisturizes my face but is smooth enough to allow for makeup application over it while also giving my skin a glow that I haven’t found with any other product. After applying one to two pumps to my skin, my face feels like velvet—and I love it!

You can purchase Eminence Bamboo Firming Fluid from Amazon for under $40 by clicking here.

2. Naturopathica Chamomile Cleansing Milk

When it comes to listing the best all-natural beauty products, we have to talk about non-toxic cleansers. And this Chamomile Cleansing Milk by Naturopathica is one of my favorites!

Naturopathica was founded by an herbalist who believes that beauty and skin care products should be created by considering the effects of herbalism, naturopathic medicine, and holistic wellness and combining them with cutting edge science.

As a result, this gentle cleansing lotion uses German Chamomile, which is known to contain anti-inflammatory properties, to help calm dry and sensitive skin. (It’s also great for those who suffer from inflammatory skin conditions, such as eczema.)

I find this cleansing milk to be soothing and relaxing—and I love using it before bed. And the best part? This cleanser is organic, gluten-free, vegan, and cruelty-free.

If you’d like to try it out, or give it as a gift to a loved one this year, you can click here to get it on Amazon for $38.

3. Risewell Toothpaste

Sometimes, when we think of the best all-natural beauty products, oral health doesn’t immediately spring to mind—but it should.

In fact, according to the Academy of General Dentistry, when asked what they first noticed about their coworkers, approximately 40 percent of workers stated they noticed a smile first. Meanwhile, 96 percent off those surveyed believed that a smile is very important in a person’s overall appearance. [3]

This makes oral health—and your oral health products—a critical part off your beauty regimen.

When it comes to my oral health, I prefer Risewell toothpaste. Why? Well, it’s free of the toxic chemicals that fill traditional toothpastes. In fact, the chemicals in our everyday toothpastes are commonly found in laundry detergent and even antifreeze. What’s more is that they’re known to cause mouth sores. [4]

But being free of those harmful chemicals isn’t the only reason I love Risewell toothpaste. This toothpaste swapped out those chemicals with naturally-derived hydroxyapatite.

Just in case you weren’t aware, hydroxyapatite is a mineral that makes up 97 percent of our tooth enamel. And this mineral has been proven to strengthen and protect your teeth—all without those chemicals or fluoride!

I love Risewell so much that my entire family uses it. And I believe in the product so much that I’ve even partnered with them to give my readers 10 percent off their order. So, if you’re interested in trying it, head on over to www.risewell.com and enter in the code PINGEL10 at checkout to save 10 percent.

I hope you love it as much as I do!

4. O&M Hydrate & Conquer Shampoo and Conditioner

I have a secret to share: I get my hair colored every six weeks (with natural dye, of course). But that means that I need the best all-natural beauty products for my hair, and that includes O&M Hydrate & Conquer Shampoo and Conditioner.

I found this shampoo and condition when I was looking for one that would add moisture to my hair. Both the shampoo and the conditioner contain quandong, which is an Australian dessert plant extract that’s high in vitamin C, certain proteins, and essential fatty acids.

They also contain Irish moss extract, which provides moisture, as well as lots of antioxidants. Moreover, the conditioner contains organic coconut and macadamia oils to lock in moisture.

Since using this combo, I’ve noticed that my hair not only grows faster but it’s also stronger and healthier overall.

You can purchase the set from Holistic Hair Tribe. Click here for the shampoo and here for the conditioner.

5. Oway Glossy Nectar

While I love all of the products listed above, I definitely saved one of my absolute best all-natural beauty products for last.

The Glossy Nectar by Oway has changed my hair more than any other product I’ve ever used. It works like an anti-frizz cream but doesn’t weigh down your hair. I found this product after realizing other products would build up in my hair and cause it to become flat.

This product is so light, and my hair is now softer and smoother. In fact, since I started using the Glossy Nectar, I haven’t had to get a keratin treatment in three years. (I was getting them about three times per year.)

The best news? Not only does the bottle last a very long time (because you only have to use a pea-sized amount), it’s sourced from all-natural, organic ingredients. And Oway doesn’t test on animals, use synthetic fragrances, or many other harmful chemicals we so often find in our beauty products.

The bottle only costs $30.56 if you order from Holistic Hair Tribe and click subscribe and save, or you can get it via Amazon for just $32 by clicking here.

Whether you’re shopping for yourself or a loved one this holiday season, I hope this little guide to the best all-natural beauty products that I use day to day has helped you.

There’s nothing like finding a product you love and feel confident in using, so I want to encourage you to give these a try. Go ahead and pamper yourself—you deserve it!

Homemade Apple Cider Soap Recipe

One of my favorite flavors of fall is apple cider. It’s sweet with just the right amount of spice—and it smells heavenly. So, why not incorporate it in more ways than just a drink? That’s right—we’re taking this beloved fall classic into the beauty realm with my Homemade Apple Cider Soap!

I love making my own beauty products, when possible, because I know they’re free of toxic chemicals hiding in so many of our body care products. This recipe is vegan-based and features all-natural ingredients, so you can feel safe using it on yourself as well as your whole family.

When it comes to the health benefits of this Homemade Apple Cider Soap, we must look to the spices it features.

First, cinnamon is known to contain anti-bacterial properties. In fact, one study showed that when combined with clove, cinnamon was effective against different bacterial strains. [1]

Meanwhile, another study investigated the anti-microbial activity of cinnamon oil against fluconazole-resistant Candida(yeast). The researchers found that the properties in cinnamon actually did help improve the Candida outbreak. [2]

Given these powerful findings, it makes sense that cinnamon would get a featured role in this soap, right?

Another spice I love to use in the fall is ginger. Not only does it contribute a sweet, spicy smell to this Homemade Apple Cider Soap, but it’s also been shown to be useful in fighting digestive upset.

A 2013 study confirmed that ginger oil is effective in fighting nausea and even reduced the need for anti-nausea medications post-surgery. [3]

Interestingly, ginger has also shown promise as a therapeutic agent for asthma. One study revealed that ginger has the ability to relax the smooth muscle in the airway, which may help provide quick relief to those experiencing asthma attacks. [4]

Finally, no apple cider recipe, drink or otherwise, would be complete without nutmeg. But that’s not the only reason I included this amazing spice in my Homemade Apple Cider Soap!

Believe it or not, studies have shown that nutmeg also inhibits dangerous strains of bacteria, such as E. coli! [5] Given how dangerous this bacteria can be, it provides some peace of mind to know it’s in your soap, right?

So, now that you know just a few of the benefits of making this incredible-smelling Homemade Apple Cider Soap, let’s take a look at the actual recipe. It’s easy, featuring many ingredients you already have at home, and quick!

In less than an hour, you’ll have an exfoliating homemade soap featuring the scents of fall that your guests will be raving about!

Homemade Apple Cider Soap

Time: 45 minutes

Makes: 4 bars

Ingredients

3 tablespoons rolled oats

½ teaspoon ground cinnamon

½ teaspoon ground ginger

¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg

1 teaspoon castor oil

2 teaspoons brown sugar

½ teaspoon vanilla extract

5 drops cinnamon essential oil

1 pound organic vegan glycerin melt and pour soap base

Directions

1. In a food processor or high-speed blender, combine the rolled oats, cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg. Pulse until ground. (The coarser the grind, the greater the exfoliation.) Transfer the mixture to a large bowl.

2. Add the castor oil, brown sugar, vanilla, and cinnamon oil to the oat mixture. Stir to combine.

3. Cut the glycerin base into 1-inch cubes. Place the cubes in a double boiler and heat over medium heat until melted, stirring occasionally.

4. Once melted, pour the glycerin into the bowl with the oat mixture. Stir to combine, then quickly transfer into silicone molds.

5. Set aside for 30 minutes, or until the soap is firm. Remove from the molds. Wrap in parchment paper and store in a cool, dry place until ready to use.

Tip: If you don’t have a double boiler, fill a small pot with 1 inch of water and place a heatproof bowl on top of the pot. Alternatively, you can melt the glycerin cubes in the microwave on high for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Homemade Apple Cider Soap

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Total Time 45 mins

Servings 4 bars

Ingredients

3 tbsp rolled oats
1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
1/2 tsp ground ginger
1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
1 tsp castor oil
2 tsp brown sugar
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
5 drops cinnamon essential oil
1 pound organic vegan glycerin melt and pour soap base

Instructions

In a food processor or high-speed blender, combine the rolled oats, cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg. Pulse until ground. (The coarser the grind, the greater the exfoliation.) Transfer the mixture to a large bowl.
Add the castor oil, brown sugar, vanilla, and cinnamon oil to the oat mixture. Stir to combine.
Cut the glycerin base into 1-inch cubes. Place the cubes in a double boiler and heat over medium heat until melted, stirring occasionally.
Once melted, pour the glycerin into the bowl with the oat mixture. Stir to combine, then quickly transfer into silicone molds.
Set aside for 30 minutes, or until the soap is firm. Remove from the molds. Wrap in parchment paper and store in a cool, dry place until ready to use.

Notes

Get Cozy This Fall with a Pumpkin Spice Latte-Inspired DIY Bath Bomb Recipe!

It’s the season for all things pumpkin spice! So why should your beauty routine be any different? If you’re looking for a fresh and relaxing way to end a stressful day, check out this Pumpkin Spice Latte-Inspired DIY Bath Bomb Recipe.

Featuring the warm scents of pumpkin spice, such as cinnamon and clove, this DIY bath bomb recipe will leave your skin feeling soft and moisturized while allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the season.

But that’s not all this Pumpkin Spice Latte-Inspired DIY Bath Bomb Recipe delivers. Coconut oil is known to be a great all-natural moisturizer that also contains anti-microbial properties.

In fact, several studies have shown that using coconut oil regularly can help treat skin infections and even reduce the use of antibiotics for such infections. [1]

Additionally, the essential oils featured in my Pumpkin Spice Latte-Inspired DIY Bath Bomb Recipe deliver some pretty powerful benefits as well!

Studies have shown that cinnamon oil contains anti-bacterial properties, while clove oil contains both antibacterial and anti-fungal properties. In fact, one study revealed that combining these two oils was effective against several different bacterial strains. [2]

But that’s not all. Cinnamon oil has even been shown to have protective properties against fluconazole-resistant yeast infections. [3] Amazingly, it’s also known to help balance insulin levels and even fight inflammation.

Meanwhile, clove oil is also commonly used to help reduce pain. In fact, a 2006 study of more than 70 adults found that applying clove gel before dental procedures significantly reduced pain. [4]

As you can see, in addition to fighting stress and promoting relaxation and healthy skin, there are many amazing health benefits to trying this Pumpkin Spice Latte-Inspired DIY Bath Bomb Recipe. Scroll down for the recipe and get ready to enjoy indulging in the scents of Fall!

Pumpkin Spice Latte-Inspired DIY Bath Bomb Recipe

Time: 10 minutes (+ 8 to 10 hours for drying)

Makes: 3 to 4 bath bombs

Ingredients

2 tablespoons melted coconut oil

6-8 drops cinnamon essential oil

4-6 drops clove essential oil

1 cup baking soda

½ cup citric acid

¼ cup Epsom salt

2 tablespoons cream of tartar

2 tablespoons coconut milk powder

Directions

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the coconut oil, cinnamon oil, and clove oil.

2. In a large bowl, whisk together the baking soda, citric acid, Epsom salt, cream of tartar, and coconut milk powder.

3. Add the coconut oil mixture to the dry mixture and stir until the mixture holds together when pinched.

4. Pack the mixture into molds, then gently remove.

5. Place them on a clean plate and leave out to dry for 8-10 hours.

Tip:

If you don’t have a mold, you can use a muffin tin, an ice cream scoop, or even plastic Easter eggs to form the molds.

Pumpkin Spice Latte-Inspired DIY Bath Bomb Recipe

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Total Time 10 mins

Ingredients

2 tbsp melted coconut oil
6-8 drops cinnamon essential oil
4-6 drops clove essential oil
1 cup baking soda
1/2 cup citric acid
1/4 cup Epsom salt
2 tbsp cream of tartar
2 tbsp coconut milk powder

Instructions

In a small bowl, whisk together the coconut oil, cinnamon oil, and clove oil.
In a large bowl, whisk together the baking soda, citric acid, Epsom salt, cream of tartar, and coconut milk powder.
Add the coconut oil mixture to the dry mixture and stir until the mixture holds together when pinched.
Pack the mixture into molds, then gently remove.
Place them on a clean plate and leave out to dry for 8-10 hours.

Notes

Tip:

If you don’t have a mold, you can use a muffin tin, an ice cream scoop, or even plastic Easter eggs to form the molds.