Leaning Natural.

Over the past year or so, my crunchy level has risen to an all-time high. The crazy makeup collection (laden with difficult to pronounce ingredients) isn't going anywhere, but I'm always on the lookout for product lines which promote natural solutions. One of my favorite websites from which to source herbs and oils, is Mountain Rose Herbs. Their products are certified organic, always packaged well, and are fairly priced. I typically order ingredients for homemade medicines and immune-boosting syrups (told you I'm granola), yet the last time I placed an order, a facial mist caught my eye.

Now I had recently finished a bottle of Melvita's Rose Floral Water, which was absolutely lovely. If compared to Mario Badescu's Rosewater Facial Spray, Melvita takes the prize (total side note). It has a slight creamy factor in the scent, and doesn't cause any tightening of the skin (more on all of this later). However, Mountain Rose's Tulsi (Holy Basil) Hydrosol is what is now on the bathroom vanity.

Tulsi is often used in Ayurveda, and one fantastic thing about the line as a whole, is that most of the products are food or therapeutic grade. Meaning, they can be ingested, used for cosmetic purposes, topically, etc. It is refreshing in a strange herb-like way--fitting, if you are both a cosmetic hound and foodie! It is best used spritzed all over the face after cleansing, and prior to any serums or treatments. The scent is very much basil--a complete detour from typical rose or orange blossom facial sprays.

Mountain Rose's essential oils are some of my favorites. There are endless numbers of uses for essential oils--whether it be homemade beauty products, cleaning supplies, baby wash, nappy wash...I could go on and on. If you're interested, a good starting place is Valerie Wormwood's book on the topic. I never purchase essential oils in stores--I find that the quality typically isn't high enough. Here, you can find everything from Manuka (amazing for skin/acne/eczema) to Sandalwood from Vanuatu (another one which is great for skin, but also anxiety issues).

These are a few that I either needed to replenish, or had been interested in adding to my arsenal. If you're curious about any of their uses, do ask! The site ships internationally, and is prompt.

Are you a little crunchy? What are your favorite facial mists and essential oils? Any favorite home remedies?