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  • Welcome
  • Shop
    • Best Sellers
    • Beauty
    • Bath and Body
    • Balms, Ointments and Salves
    • Smudging, Sprays, Kits and Crystals
    • Intention Oils
    • Teas and Smokes
  • About Kenita
  • Blog
  • Reviews
  • FAQ
  • Contact
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Herb of the Month: Agrimony

4/17/2021

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Agrimony's botanical name "Agrimonia eupatoria" refers to Mithridates Eupator, king of Pontus, who is remembered by early herbalists for fashioning a "universal antidote" to protect him from all earthly poisons.
Agrimony has long been regarded as powerfully magical, and one of its earliest common names is "fairy's wand". In an 18th century Scottish witch trial, Agrimony was mentioned as a witch's cure for people who were "elf-shot" or suffering unexplained illness.
The word Agrimony is derived from the Greek "Argemone", meaning "that which heals the eye". Being abundant throughout the UK, Agrimony has been used in herbal medicine for hundreds, if not thousands of years; used extensively for wounds, snake bites and warts. In later times it was used to treat gunshot wounds due to its coagulant effect.
It has also been traditionally used as an aid to digestive complaints, a diuretic and to improve respiratory conditions such as coughs, colds and bronchitis. Agrimony was once considered a panacea or “all-heal” for illnesses.
Typical Use: Agrimony Tincture
Can be added to water or fruit juice and taken when required.
Traditionally Taken: 2-3ml taken 2-3 times per day, or as directed by a Herbal Practitioner.

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Meet Stella

11/27/2019

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My familiar spirit.

Familiar spirits were believed to be supernatural entities that would assist witches in their practice of magic. According to the records of the time, they would appear in numerous guises, often as an animal, but also at times as a human or humanoid figure, and were described as "clearly defined, three-dimensional… forms, vivid with colour and animated with movement and sound" by those alleging to have come into contact with them, unlike later descriptions of ghosts with their "smoky, undefined forms".
When they served witches, they were often thought to be malevolent, while when working for cunning folk they were often thought of as benevolent. The former were often categorized as demons, while the latter were more commonly thought of and described as fairies. The main purpose of familiars is to serve the witch or young witch, providing protection for them as they come into their new powers. Since the 20th century a number of magical practitioners, including adherents of the Neopagan religion of Wicca, have begun to use the concept of familiars, due to their association with older forms of magic. These contemporary practitioners utilize pets, wildlife or believe that invisible spirit versions of familiars act as magical aids. -Wikipedia

I suffered a loss, very recently, and almost immediately wanted a kitten. I've had cats as an adult and as a child; but I wanted this one for many different reasons. I considered a kitten about a month ago but my fiance didn't agree; since I was pregnant I didn't argue much. I just wanted a companion, other than my clumsy dog, to be in my sacred work space with me and provide protection for me as I come into my new powers.

Stella was so easy to adopt, almost too easy which made things a lot easier. We are not sure what breed she is and we're not too pressed about it; she is so loving and calming and everything I'd knew she'd be. She does the normal things kittens do and we find it adorable. She loves our huge house but is getting used to our Blue Heeler mix, Naomi, who is 5 years old and over the moon that Stella is here. 

Stella and I spend lots of time in my apothecary. She loves to perch on the counters and watch as I: choose which herbs to infuse, lovingly pack customer orders, arrange my new supplies, light candles in memory of lost loves ones, meditate, cry, mix oils...you know, the things that I love doing and occupy my mind. When she watches me while I work, sitting so proper, it makes me happy. She sits in my lap as I update my website - all the while purring and it's adorable. She, oh so carefully, walks on the counter-tops, vigilant to not knock anything down but curious enough to disturb it. She brings a peace and calmness to me. 

Stella and I will have a long journey together. She will be our shop cat and soon plenty others will get to love on her and she on them. 




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Essential oils and herbs for cold and flu

9/26/2019

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The timing of flu is unpredictable and can vary in different parts of the country and from season to season. Seasonal flu viruses can be detected year-round; however, seasonal flu activity often begins as early as October and November and can continue to occur as late as May. Flu activity most commonly peaks in the United States between December and February. There is no "cure" for the common cold or the flu, but there are tools available to increase self-care as you wait for the virus to run its course. 

One effective method of self-care is using essential oils as a topical rub or for aromatherapy. Essential oils can help alleviate your cold and flu symptoms, especially by clearing your nasal passage and reducing headaches and body aches. Some oils have antiviral benefits to help treat infections and reduce fever. Inhalation is the most beneficial way to use essential oils for cold and flu. You can inhale essential oils by sniffing the bottle directly or adding a few drops of oil to a cotton ball or handkerchief. This method helps clear your nasal passages so you can breathe better. The oils may also help you sleep better and reduce stress. You can add a few drops of essential oils to:
  • hot bathwater
  • a bowl of hot water for steam inhalation
  • a diffuser
  • a carrier oil, for massaging the head, neck, or feet
  • hot compresses
Here are several great oils to use:
  • lemon - antibacterial, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory, which makes it ideal for fighting viruses as well as reducing cold and flu symptoms such as coughing, congestion, swollen glands and body aches. Lemon essential oil has long been considered a cure-all fruit and essential oil, especially for treating the flu and for reducing fevers. It is also a great treatment for fatigue as it is an energizing essential oil.
  • eucalyptus - an efficient remedy for chesty coughs and to ease breathing.
  • rosemary - good for relieving cold and flu symptoms because of it is a warming oil, reduces aches and pains, aids in circulation, and relieves nausea.
  • frankincense - ideal for treating cold and flu because of its natural cold-fighting properties, such as being antiseptic, astringent, anti-inflammatory, and an expectorant.
  • tea tree - antiseptic, antiviral and antimicrobial. Use this essential oil for colds as it diminishes coughs, bronchial congestion and sore throats. Tea tree essential oil is also an excellent, natural disinfectant, so you can use it to kill germs on surfaces and in the air.
  • peppermint - cooling and effective for soothing headaches, chest congestion, soothing nausea and upset stomach, and reducing fever.
  • lavender - helpful for respiratory ailments and symptoms such as influenza, colds, sinus congestion and coughs. Lavender essential oil can also help when phlegm is trapped within the lungs and sinuses.
The herbal home remedies below are meant to be simple to make using ingredients that are readily available. The best thing about these recipes is that they can be customized to the individual and many of the herbs can be used to address a variety of illnesses:
  • Sage – carminative, antiseptic, and astringent – the mouth and throat plant. Used for sore throats and cough. Also used for sinus congestion.
  • Thyme – antimicrobial, antibacterial, antiviral, expectorant, and astringent. Thyme is great for respiratory infections and coughs.  It is also good for the stomach and relieves gas.
Herbal Remedies for Cough
Onion honey – 1 spoonful as needed
Onion cough syrup
Thyme honey
Thyme tea with lemon
Thyme and/or sage inhalation

Herbal Remedies for Respiratory Symptoms
Thyme and Sage tea are lung strengtheners and treat respiratory tract problems. You can use both thyme and sage alone or they can be used together
Thyme and/or sage steam inhalation, teas or honey

Herbal Remedies for Sinus Congestion
Sage tea in Neti Pot
Neti Pot with saline

*Lemon juice squeezed into your sage tea removes the bitterness.

Tea and Infusions! Herbal teas are a great way to treat cold/flu symptoms; not only do you get the medicinal benefits, but they are also soothing, warm, and relaxing. Infusions usually use more herbs than regular herbal teas and are steeped for longer periods of time. I find using a French press to be the best method of infusing and the easiest way to strain. But, any glass jar (mason or recycled food containers) and a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth can be used.
Herbal tea - general preparation:
  • Pour boiling water over the herb, steep at least 20 minutes, and strain.
  • You can also use a French press, preparing as above and pressing after 20 minutes
Infusion - general preparation:
  • 2 ounces of herbs or 2 generous handfuls of dried herb
  • 1 pint of water (if not completely covered add more water until the herb material is completely covered)
  • Steep for 4 – 10 hours or overnight
  • Strain herbs

EarthShine also has handmade, all-natural, chemical free products to help you during cold and flu season. I personally recommend our Echinacea tincture, Headache Healer and Wildflower and Herb Facial Steam:

Plantain Salve

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Healing Salve (several varieties)

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Herb Infused Healing Body Oil

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Using our magickal items

9/20/2019

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Blessed be! I handcraft all of EarthShine's products; each product is created with the highest intention of love and positive vibes. When I'm creating our magickal items I'm very focused and specific, ensuring that I first cleanse myself, then the supplies. I also bless our magickal products with earth, air and water once complete.

Intention oils:
Intention is the practice of holding in our minds that which we desire in the physical world. The universe is malleable and flowing and is in a constant state of change. I craft several different intention oils for your use. Suggested ways to use our Intention Oils:
  • Anoint your body -  rub a thin layer into your skin daily or in your hair roots while visualizing the intention. Mantras are excellent for this! You can also add the oil to your bath.
  • Anoint ritual tools - rub the oil on any new ritual tools to heighten their power and effectiveness. Additionally, you may wish to anoint the corners of your altar or magickal space by dabbing the oil in five points, creating the pentacle symbol.
  • Anoint crystals - crystals can be anointed to charge, consecrate, cleanse or empower. Be careful as some crystals and gems should not come in contact with water oil oils, so be sure to research the structure and hardness of your crystal or gem before anointing them. 
  • Anoint jewelry - Choose a crystal or gemstone that fits with your magickal intent; match that with our one of EarthShine's Intention Oils and wear your magick!
  • Candle magick - Dip the wick of a candle into your intention oil and set intentions while the candle burns.   

Mojo bags:
Mojo bags are handmade pouches filled with items that grant the owner the properties they desire. They can be created and used for almost any need, want  or desire; they are powerful allies in magick.
You may keep your mojo bag in your pocket, book bag, purse, dresser or car. I recommend that you carry it with you when you specifically want it's magickal effects around you. To make your mojo bag even more powerful, feed your mojo bag with an intention oil: put a dab on the four corners of the mojo bag and one in the middle; this helps keep the energy strong. 

Self-care Ritual Bath Soak:
Charged for working with goddess energy, self worth and love as well as attraction. A magickal blend of natural salts, essential oils and herbs for relaxation and spirituality. Suggested use:
  • Shower before you use! As you soak, visualize barriers or obstacles that prevent love, abundance or attraction melting away and evaporating in the healing salt steam. Inhale the essential oil and herb steam and visualize your abundance manifesting into your life. 

Air Fresheners and Sprays:
Designed for people who have difficulties being around the smoke of incense and/or want to cleanse a space where an incense isn't able to be lit. Use in ritual or when you want to rid your space of negative energy!
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MABON (AUTUMN EQUINOX)

9/15/2019

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Saturday, September 21st, is the fall equinox, which marks the day when the earth is at equilibrium. Other names for this day include Harvest Tide, Harvest Home, Second Harvest and Wine Harvest. At this point, the world begins its descent into slumber for the winter. Traditionally, this is seen as the time at which the crops are all harvested: perfect for witchcraft, as we approach the latter half of the year and closer to Mabon and Samhain. The name “Mabon” is a rather recent name for the Sabbat, coming into usage in the late 20th century. Mabon was a Welsh mythological figure whose origins are connected to a divine “mother and son” pair, echoing the dual nature of the relationship between the Goddess and the God. Symbols of Mabon are reflective of the season: it's associated with rich, vibrant jewel tone hues and objects that possess grounding, comforting qualities. Vegetables such as squash and gourds, apples and anything made from their fruit, seeds, nuts, and corn are all appropriate for the holiday.
Witchcraft in autumn is the height of witch season as we approach Samhain and the harvest provides an assortment of ways to create autumnal magick. Vegetables such as squash and gourds, apples and anything made from their fruit, seeds, nuts, and corn are all appropriate for the holiday. If you have an altar, honor the new season by decorating it with any of the aforementioned, as well as with baskets to symbolize the gathering of the crops. Mabon is a useful time for practicing protection magic as well as prosperity magic. Any form of divination you partake in will be particularly revealing now, and meditating on the balance between light and dark and this space of equilibrium is also customary. Whether you're celebrating with a ritual, a feast, or simply by spending time outside, this is a perfect excuse to enjoy the season.
As any practicing witch can tell you, the equinox is a powerful time energetically; the start of autumn, specifically, marks the point at which the light begins to wane. For pagans, equinoxes are particularly significant events, and the autumnal equinox is somewhat equivalent to Thanksgiving. This is an important time to give thanks to Mother Goddess and the earth for her gifts. As you celebrate the harvest you've reaped, you simultaneously recognize that the soil is dying, that the nights will start to become longer, and that the earth is slowly going into hibernation. Pagans often also take this time to find connection to Gaia, the goddess of the earth and nature incarnate. 
But how should you celebrate Mabon? For starters, Mabon rituals can include decorating your altar with acorns, pine cones, seasonal fruits and nuts, and/or a few of the first colored leaves that drop from the trees. Candles and altar cloths in autumn colors like rusty red, orange, brown, and gold are appropriate. If you have a feast, whether solo or with others, include seasonal vegetables like onions, potatoes, carrots and other root vegetables. Here are a few suggestions:
  • Pumpkins are synonymous with the autumn season, especially around Halloween/Samhain. Pumpkins and gourds have been used for centuries as a form of protection from evil and malicious spirits when the veil between this world and the other side is thinnest. Pumpkins can be put on display outside your door as a form of protection. If you hollow out the inside of the pumpkin, you can place a spell candle inside anointed with oil for your magickal intention. Smaller, miniature pumpkins can be placed on shelves and tables as a form of protection and assistance for divination. Pumpkin seeds can be added to charm bags and spells. Pumpkins can be used in magick and spells for: Divination, Protection, Prosperity, Money magick, Healing. As a powder, bulb or in a braid, garlic can be used in charm bags, hung by doors and/or windows, added to spells or carried in a purse or bag. Garlic can be used in magick and spells for: Protection, Healing, Warding off negative magick and spirits, Honoring Hekate.
  • Corn and maize can be used in magick as well as for decoration in the home. Corn can be used in the form as an ear or as kernels on your altar, hung on your wall to welcome the energy of the season. Corn can be of any color and size for the purpose of witchcraft in autumn. Corn and maize can be used in magick and spells for: Luck, Prosperity, Abundance. Most trees will have their leaves change color and lose their leaves by October and November, which the leaves and branches from the trees can be used also in spells and magick.
  • Wood and leaves from trees can be used in magick and spells, such as: creating a wreath of leaves, grinding the leaves into a powder or mixture, burning wood in a bonfire or  fireplace, carrying a leaf or piece of wood with you; or using on your altar or in your home to attract the magickal properties of the tree. A few common trees that begin to change the color of their leaves in the autumn: Maple can be used in spells and magick for: Love, Money, Sweetness, Good luck, Wealth. Oak can be used in spells and magick for: Wisdom, Strength, Youthfulness, Healing.
  • If you’ve got kids at home, try celebrating Mabon with some of these family-friendly and kid-appropriate ideas:
    • Visit an apple orchard. Nothing says autumn quite like going apple picking, and if you’ve got kids in your home, it’s a great way to get them out of the house. Choose a day to go to the local apple orchard. Many orchards are also a business, full of hayrides, corn mazes, games, and other fun family entertainment – if that’s what you enjoy, great! If your family is a little more low-key, find an orchard that just offers picking from acres and acres of apple trees, without the bells and whistles. Apples themselves are kind of magical, and there’s a primitive sort of feeling, almost a throwback to earlier, more agrarian times, when you pick your own apples direct from the source. Your kids will probably end up in the trees, because apples picked while climbing apparently taste better than the ones you can pick when you’re standing on the ground. By the end of the visit, you'll have a bushel or two of apples to bring home, and you can spend the day making applesauce, apple butter, craft projects, and all kinds of other things. Apple picking is a great way to spend your day together as a family, get back to nature, and harvest delicious and healthy foods for everyone to eat.
    • Seasonal crafts. For many of us, fall is a time when we start feeling our creative juices flowing. The leaves are beginning to turn, and the vibrant colors of the season are everywhere. There’s a crispness in the air, the smell of campfires on the breeze, and it’s a great time to try some new craft projects. Gather up fallen leaves, acorns, corn-husks, gourds, grapevines, and all the other things you can think of, and start getting crafty!
    • Celebrate Hearth and home. As autumn rolls in, we know we'll be spending more time indoors in just a few months. Take some time to do an autumn version of your annual spring cleaning. Physically clean your home from top to bottom, and then do a ritual smudging. Clean things up both inside and out; the kids can easily help with tidying up. If they’re older and a little more responsible, they can do larger tasks like vacuuming, yard cleanup, and more. Decorate your home with symbols of the harvest season, and set up a family Mabon altar. Put sickles, scythes and bales of hay around the yard. Collect colorful autumn leaves, gourds and fallen twigs and place them in decorative baskets in your house. If you have any repairs that need to be done, do them now so you don't have to worry about them over the winter. Have everyone go through his or her closets. Designate a box for trash, and fill it with the clothes and shoes that are no longer in wearable condition. Set aside another box, and fill that with the items that can be donated. Donations of coats, jackets, hats and scarves are always in demand in the fall, so make sure that if your kids have any of these that they’ve outgrown, get them boxed up and out the door as soon as possible.
Spell-work related to protection and security is appropriate now, as are workings for self-confidence, prosperity, harmony and balance. Here are some ways that you can easily work protection magick into your routine:
  • Witch Protection Bottle or Jar: this can be a small or medium sized spell jar filled with protective herbs and items (some jars include broken glass, nails, knives, urine or vinegar) for protection. The jar or spell bottle is commonly placed near the entrance or buried under the front step/porch. (Back door will work also too.). Spell jars and spell bottles for protection can be anointed regularly or often with protection oil.
  • Protection Candles: burning black or white candles daily can help to keep your home or space cleared. If you use a large tumbler or jar candle, you can light it every day and let it burn for as long as you can or feel the need. You can anoint the candles with protection oil before lighting it and leave the candle to burn someplace safe in your home or on your altar. You can anoint your doors and windows with protection oil and/or Florida water daily or weekly to keep your home protected from unwanted energies. A protection wash can be used to wash your floors and home for additional protective energy. Four Thieves Vinegar can also be effective for protection from negative energies, banishing and healing, which can be used as a floor wash, anointing windows and doors or to anoint yourself. Autumn is the most witchy time of year, full of so much that can be used in natural and elemental magick. As we approach Samhain, we come to a close of the Wheel of the Year and await the beginning to happen at Yule. During the autumn season, the Crone aspect of the Goddess (i.e. the Dark Goddess) rules the time of year.
Though temperatures may still be warm during the day, summer has truly come to an end. The leaves on deciduous trees have begun to turn colors and fall to the ground, and there is a chill in the evening air. The days were longer than the nights until this moment, and after this the nights will begin their reign. The God is making his exit from the stage of the seasons, heading toward his symbolic death at Samhain in just a few short weeks. As with Ostara, the theme of balance is highlighted here, reminding us that everything is temporary, that no season lasts forever, and that neither dark nor light ever overpowers the other for long. All Sabbats are occasions to express gratitude to the God and Goddess for the blessings in our lives, but Mabon is particularly so, coming at the height of the harvest season. Traditionally, this was a very busy and physically exhausting time. This holiday provided a brief rest from toiling in the fields—a day to sit back and enjoy the fruits of the labor thus far. In these modern times, most of us are not involved in agriculture, but we can still take a moment to rest from our labor and relax, appreciating all that we have. It is a time to recognize the need for balance between work and play.

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WHY USE NATURAL BEAUTY PRODUCTS?

5/19/2019

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EARTH-FRIENDLY!
​PRODUCTS MADE FROM CONVENTIONALLY PRODUCED INGREDIENTS CAN HAVE A NEGATIVE ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT. THE MANUFACTURING OF CHEMICAL-HEAVY HEALTH AND BEAUTY PRODUCTS PUTS THOSE CHEMICALS, AND MANY MORE, INTO THE AIR AND WATER, AND EVEN MORE GO DOWN YOUR DRAIN IN YOUR OWN HOME. WHEN INGREDIENTS FOR NATURAL HEALTH AND BEAUTY PRODUCTS ARE FARMED AND MANUFACTURED ORGANICALLY, FEWER CHEMICALS ARE PUT INTO THE AIR AND WATER.

AVOID IRRITATION!
CHEMICALS, ARTIFICIAL COLORS, AND FILLERS IN SKIN CARE PRODUCTS AND MAKEUP CAN CAUSE REDNESS, IRRITATION, AND BREAKOUTS. MANY PEOPLE ARE EVEN ALLERGIC TO CHEMICALS COMMONLY FOUND IN CONVENTIONALLY PRODUCED PRODUCTS. NATURAL MAKEUP, SKIN CARE PRODUCTS, AND BODY PRODUCTS WORK WITH YOUR SKIN INSTEAD OF AGAINST IT.

SAVE YOUR NOSE!
ARTIFICIAL FRAGRANCES ARE DESIGNED TO COVER UP THE SMELL OF OTHER CHEMICALS USED IN TRADITIONAL HEALTH AND BEAUTY PRODUCTS. THE EFFECT IS THAT YOU HAVE A CHEMICAL TO COVER UP ANOTHER CHEMICAL, AND ALL THOSE CHEMICAL SMELLS CAN CAUSE HEADACHES IN MANY PEOPLE. NATURAL HEALTH AND BEAUTY PRODUCTS SMELL LIKE THEIR NATURAL INGREDIENTS, NOT A COCKTAIL OF CHEMICALS. NATURAL HEALTH AND BEAUTY PRODUCTS SCENTED WITH NATURAL ESSENTIAL OILS CAN EVEN PROVIDE AROMATHERAPY.

​NO STRANGE SIDE EFFECTS!
PARABENS ARE USED IN CONVENTIONALLY PRODUCED HEALTH AND BEAUTY PRODUCTS AS A PRESERVATIVE TO EXTEND THE SHELF LIFE OF PRODUCTS. PARABENS, HOWEVER, ARE SYNTHETIC AND MIMIC YOUR BODY’S NATURAL HORMONES. MANY PEOPLE WORRY THAT THIS CAN ALTER THE FUNCTIONS OF YOUR BODY’S ENDOCRINE SYSTEM. ARTIFICIAL INGREDIENTS LIKE PARABENS MAY HELP A PRODUCT DO ONE THING WELL, BUT THERE COULD BE POSSIBLE SIDE EFFECTS THAT ARE STILL BEING UNCOVERED. NATURAL HEALTH AND BEAUTY PRODUCTS USE NATURAL PRESERVATIVES, SUCH AS GRAPEFRUIT SEED EXTRACT, THAT WON’T AFFECT YOUR BODY. AND WHILE SOME PEOPLE HAVE ALLERGIES TO A FEW NATURAL INGREDIENTS (LANOLIN, WHICH COMES FROM WOOL, IS AN ALLERGEN FOR SOME) THE EFFECTS ARE MUCH MORE UNDERSTOOD THAN THE ONES FROM SYNTHETIC INGREDIENTS.

​GENTLER OVER TIME!
MANY NATURAL PRODUCTS WORK BETTER THAN THEIR CONVENTIONAL COUNTERPARTS BECAUSE THEY DON’T CONTAIN UNNECESSARY FILLERS OR IRRITANTS. AND WHILE SOME UNNATURAL PRODUCTS MAY SEEM TO WORK BETTER WITH THE FIRST TRY, OVER THE LONG-TERM, THE HARMFUL CHEMICALS THAT MADE YOUR SKIN FEEL CLEANER OR YOUR HAIR FEEL SMOOTHER MAY ACTUALLY CAUSE DAMAGE.
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VEGANISM!

5/19/2019

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There I was, in my office at work, minding my own business, when my assistant asked me if I'd seen this documentary on Netflix called "What the Health". I told her no, I've not, and continued to eat my lunch. She told me about certain parts of the film but it didn't phase me; I continued to eat my food, unbothered. My assistant mentioned to me that she decided to become Vegan after watching the documentary. I was beyond excited for her! She was looking for a lifestyle change and she found it! For weeks she posted lots of yummy vegan food on her Insta and brought to work the best lunches I've ever seen. However, I still was not moved.

Fast forward one or so months. I decide to watch "What the Health" with my man. Y'all, I could not believe what I was watching. I won't write about the film content but I will say I am hard to shock/surprise and I was astounded!  Everett, my man,  fell asleep and I watched the entire mind boggling, life changing, sad, but informative documentary. After the film ended I stared at the TV for what seemed to be an eternity. Right then is when I  made the decision to change my lifestyle and become vegan. I immediately took to FB and Insta to find support and resources so I could maintain this decision. I was up until the wee hours - joining FB groups, following vegans in Insta for recipes and saving recipes on Google. The next morning, Thursday, March 8th, I asked Everett if he wanted to join me in this lifelong commitment. He said yes and I was over the moon that he would do this with me, for I knew it wouldn't be easy!

You may have asked yourself: "did she really turn vegan from a movie?" No, that's not the only reason. Albeit, if it were, that's reason enough. "What the Health" informed me of the many issues the food we eat can cause to our bodies, but I had a stronger reason: my mom recently passed away from Cancer. Her sister, who's in her 60s, was diagnosed with Cancer just months after her sister's passing. HBP, high cholesterol, diabetes and just overall unhealthiness runs in my family. I understand genetics for I work in the healthcare field. I also know that the foods you ingest play a huge part in cell replication, especially the foods that contain carcinogens.

Here we are, 14 months vegan and I have to say I don't know why I didn't make this change sooner! This past 14 months have been eye-opening, challenging, fun, educational and well worth it! I've learned how to read the ingredients on packages (with the knowledge of which aren't good for me), I've learned about approx. 7 different veggies (where have you been all my life?!), how to make a mean vegan stir fry, self-discipline with regard to abstaining from cheese, and my focus has gone through the roof. I've not lost much weight (I'm jelly that my man has though), but that's not an end goal for me. My skin is amazing and my tummy doesn't hurt after I eat like it did before I was vegan.

Some benefits of veganism:

Nutrition
All of the following nutritional benefits come from a vegan diet full of foods such as fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, nuts, beans, and soy products.


  1. Reduced saturated fats. Dairy products and meats contain a large amount of saturated fats. By reducing the amount of saturated fats from your diet, you’ll improve your health tremendously, especially when it comes to cardiovascular health.
  2. Carbohydrates. Carbohydrates provide energy for your body. When you don’t have enough carbohydrates, your body will burn muscle tissue.
  3. Fiber. A diet high in fiber (as vegan eating usually is) leads to healthier bowel movements. High fiber diets help fight against colon cancer.
  4. Magnesium. Aiding in the absorption of calcium, magnesium is an often overlooked vitamin in importance to a healthy diet. Nuts, seeds, and dark leafy greens are an excellent source of magnesium.
  5. Potassium. Potassium balances water and acidity in your body and stimulates the kidneys to eliminate toxins. Diets high in potassium have shown to reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases and cancer.
  6. Folate. This B vitamin is an important part of a healthy diet. Folate helps with cell repair, generating red and white blood cells, and metabolizing amino acids.
  7. Antioxidants. For protection against cell damage, antioxidants are one of the best ways to help your body. Many researchers also believe that antioxidants help protect your body against forming some types of cancer.
  8. Vitamin C. Besides boosting your immune system, Vitamin C also helps keep your gums healthy and helps your bruises heal faster. Vitamin C is also an antioxidant.
  9. Vitamin E. This powerful vitamin has benefits for your heart, skin, eyes, brain, and may even help prevent Alzheimer’s Disease. A diet high in grains, nuts, and dark leafy greens is full of Vitamin E.
  10. Protein. That protein is good for your body is no surprise. It may be a surprise to learn that most Americans eat too much protein and in forms such as red meat that are not healthy ways of getting protein. Beans, nuts, peas, lentils, and soy products are all great ways to get the right amount of protein in a vegan diet.

Disease Prevention
Eating a healthy vegan diet has shown to prevent a number of diseases. Find out from the list below what you could potentially avoid just by switching to a healthy, balanced vegan way of eating.


  1. Cardiovascular disease. Eating nuts and whole grains, while eliminating dairy products and meat, will improve your cardiovascular health. A British study indicates that a vegan diet reduces the risk for heart disease and Type 2 diabetes. Vegan diets go far in preventing heart attack and stroke.
  2. Cholesterol. Eliminating any food that comes from an animal and you will eliminate all dietary cholesterol from your diet. Your heart will thank you for that.
  3. Blood pressure. A diet rich in whole grains is beneficial to your health in many ways, including lowering high blood pressure.
  4. Type 2 diabetes. Not only is a vegan diet a weapon against Type 2 diabetes, it is also "easier to follow than the standard diet recommended by the American Diabetic Association." Read more about it here.
  5. Prostate cancer. A major study showed that men in the early stages of prostate cancer who switched to a vegan diet either stopped the progress of the cancer or may have even reversed the illness.
  6. Colon cancer. Eating a diet consisting of whole grains, along with fresh fruits and vegetables, can greatly reduce your chances of colon cancer.
  7. Breast cancer. Countries where women eat very little meat and animal products have a much lower rate of breast cancer than do the women in countries that consume more animal products.
  8. Macular degeneration. Diets with lots of fresh fruits and vegetables, especially leafy greens, carrots, pumpkin, and sweet potatoes, can help prevent the onset of age-related macular degeneration.
  9. Cataracts. Much the same way macular degeneration is headed off by a vegan diet, cataracts are also thought to be prevented through the intake of the same fruits and vegetables. Produce high in antioxidants are also believed to help prevent cataracts.
  10. Arthritis. Eliminating dairy consumption has long been connected with alleviating arthritis symptoms, but a new study indicates that a combination of gluten-free and vegan diet is very promising for improving the health of those suffering from rheumatoid arthritis.
  11. Osteoporosis. Bone health depends on a balance of neither too much or too little protein, adequate calcium intake, high potassium, and low sodium. With a healthy vegan diet, all four of these points set a perfect scenario for preventing osteoporosis.

Physical Benefits
In addition to good nutrition and disease prevention, eating vegan also provides many physical benefits. Find out how a vegan diet makes your body stronger, more attractive, and more energetic.
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  1. Body Mass Index. Several population studies show that a diet without meat leads to lower BMIs–usually an indicator of a healthy weight and lack of fat on the body.
  2. Weight loss. A healthy weight loss is a typical result of a smart vegan diet. Eating vegan eliminates most of the unhealthy foods that tend to cause weight issues. Read more about weight loss and a vegan diet here.
  3. Energy. When following a healthy vegan diet, you will find your energy is much higher. This blog post in Happy Healthy Long Life describes how NFL tight-end Tony Gonzalez started eating vegan and gained energy–while playing football.
  4. Healthy skin. The nuts and vitamins A and E from vegetables play a big role in healthy skin, so vegans will usually have good skin health. Many people who switch to a vegan diet will notice a remarkable reduction in blemishes as well.
  5. Longer life. Several studies indicate that those following a vegan or vegetarian lifestyle live an average of three to six years longer than those who do not.
  6. Body odor. Eliminating dairy and red meat from the diet significantly reduces body odor. Going vegan means smelling better.
  7. Bad breath. Vegans frequently experience a reduction in bad breath. Imagine waking up in the morning and not having morning breath.
  8. Hair. Many who follow vegan diets report that their hair becomes stronger, has more body, and looks healthier.
  9. Nails. Healthy vegan diets are also responsible for much stronger, healthier nails. Nail health is said to be an indicator of overall health.
  10. PMS. When switching to a vegan diet, many women tell how PMS symptoms become much less intense or disappear altogether. The elimination of dairy is thought to help with those suffering with PMS.
  11. Migraines. Migraine suffers who go on vegan diets frequently discover relief from their migraines. Read more about the food-migraine connection in this article.
  12. Allergies. Reduction in dairy, meat, and eggs is often tied to alleviation of allergy symptoms. Many vegans report much fewer runny noses and congestion problems.

Other Benefits
In addition to the health benefits above, following a vegan lifestyle and diet also provides these benefits as well. From helping the environment to avoiding serious bacterial infections, learn other benefits to eating the vegan way below.
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  1. Animals. Many people begin a vegan diet out of concern for animals. Whether opposed to the conditions of animals intended for food or eating animals in general, going vegan will help your conscience rest easily.
  2. Environment. Growing plants takes much fewer resources than growing animals. By eating vegan, you can help reduce the toll on the environment.
  3. E. coli. E. coli comes from eating contaminated red meat and is the leading cause of bloody diarrhea. Young children, those with compromised immune systems, and elderly people can become extremely ill or die from E. coli. Eating vegan means completely avoiding the risk of E. coli infection.
  4. Salmonella. Another gastrointestinal illness from animal products, salmonella food poisoning is closely related to E. coli. The most frequent way people contract salmonella food poisoning is through contact with raw eggs or raw chicken meat from chickens infected with salmonella. Again, going vegan means eliminating this risk altogether.
  5. Mad cow disease. It’s safe to say that most people would want to avoid contracting a fatal, non-treatable disease. One way to ensure you don’t get Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease is by not eating animals infected with mad cow disease. While the incidence of mad cow disease is not reportedly so high in North America, it does exist.
  6. Global food supply. Feeding grain to animals meant as food sources reduces the amount of food that is available to underdeveloped nations. Many people will go hungry while that same food they could be eating is given to animals raised for slaughter. Eating vegan ensures that you have removed yourself from the participation of this imbalance.
  7. Hormone consumption. Eating animals that have been given hormones to speed growth (a common practice in the meat industry) means those hormones go into your body. Not only can this disrupt the natural balance of your hormones, but some of the hormones given to animals have shown to cause tumor growth in humans.
  8. Antibiotics. Antibiotics are frequently given to feed animals, which can lead to bacterial resistance. Many of the antibiotics used to treat human infections are also used in feed animals.

I just started this journey and I have so much to learn! I've received sly and just plain rude comments from people, some strangers, about my lifestyle change but I've never been one to entertain a negative Nancy. I do what I do for me, not them. On the flip side, I've received much support from family and that was unexpected and is gold to me! If you're on this journey and need support, hit me up! If you've been on this journey for awhile, I'd appreciate your wisdom!
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    Your hood botanica, Kenita!

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