I am confused by Celadon Road. From the moment I opened the package of samples and couldn't read the font of the company's name and white powder got all over my hands (I couldn't help but think anthrax), I could tell this was not going to be an easy product review.
I went to the website and was even more confused. It wanted me to log in or sign up. Did I want to spend $150 to become an independent consultant? I continued to be irked.
The samples we were sent were extremely small and leaking all over the packaging. Laundry detergent in a ziplock bag, hand soap enough for one washing...you can see how my annoyance grew.
We were sent the following products to barely try. It was a chore trying to find them on the website, where they were poorly photographed. Lavender Hand Soap
Get Your Foam On. Excitingly rich and foamy, this is not just any hand wash! Celadon Road's™ Lavender Hand Soap starts with Certified Organic ingredients and infuses them with oxygen to create a foaming wash that boasts a wonderful feel and luxurious lather. Wrapped in a handy refillable dispenser, you'll never go back to the same old, same old again!
Liquid Lavender. A mixture of essential oils, pure vegetable oil soap, natural extracts and lavender, our Certified Organic recipe will introduce relaxation into your routine and glowing skin into your life.
Conquer Laundry Mountain Naturally. With the essence of pure essential oils, it takes only 1-2 tablespoons of Celadon Road's™ low-sudsing Cedarwood Laundry Detergent to work its all-natural magic on any dreaded laundry mountain! Use in regular or high efficiency washers. Dissolve in water for washing floors and walls. An all-natural family formula, this detergent was originally created to ease the suffering of a child with eczema aggravated by commercial laundry products.
Multi-Tasking, Mess-Fighting Super-Cleaner. Created with the idea of keeping children and the environment safe, Celadon Road's™ All Room Cleanser naturally and effectively cleans some of your toughest household jobs without the worry of dangerous chemicals. From removing soap scum in your bathroom to the stubborn grease on your stove top, this multi-tasking, mess-fighting super-cleaner will bring comfort to your mind and a fresh lime scent to your home
The products online did not disclose ingredients, and of course my samples were not in original packaging for consultation. I was sent an ingredient supply list, but many of the products listed "a proprietary blend" without full disclosure. I can't help but think of fracking when I read proprietary blend.
I don't like products that are not accessible to the general product without going through an independent consultant. It reminds me of Amway.
disclosure: The products described above were sent to us as free samples. Prior assurances as to the nature of the reviews, whether positive or negative, were not given. No financial payments were accepted in exchange for the reviews. The reviews reflect our honest, authentic opinions.
Many women struggle when they go through the menopausal transition of life. Hot flashes, restless nights, and night sweats keep women from getting much needed rest. Pharmaceutical solutions come with many risks, thus natural solutions are best.
Estroven's nighttime formula has been enhanced with clinically proven melatonin, a common ingredient found in many sleep aids and clinically proven soy isoflavones, among the most extensively studied alternatives to estrogen therapy. When taken as part of a nightly regimen, Estroven Nighttime helps you to have a restful night's sleep and wake up feeling refreshed*
I have not been able to test this product out to see if it is effective or not, and I am not a big fan of supplements in general. I would rather drink herbal tea, which I will research and do when that time of my life comes.
disclosure: The products described above were sent to us as free samples. Prior assurances as to the nature of the reviews, whether positive or negative, were not given. No financial payments were accepted in exchange for the reviews. The reviews reflect our honest, authentic opinions.
Marie Veronique Organics is a brand I have come to love and trust for being both completely natural and lovely.
Science and nature have a good thing going. That's why we pay attention to both so diligently. We use scientific studies and direct research to better understand the aging process. Then, we turn to nature to find ingredients to minimize or counter those effects.
No toxins. Not ever. At MVO what we put in our products is as important as what we don't. You won't find toxins, petroleum-based products, nanoparticles, or anything else that's potentially harmful. We don't need those ingredients to make your skin look and feel younger.
Sustaining the planet. It's probably no surprise that our entire company is dedicated to sustainability. Wherever possible we use natural, organic and fair trade ingredients, packaged in 100% recyclable materials. And we source them as close to our Berkeley headquarters as possible to keep our footprint super small.
To make the planet a better place, we donate 10% of our profits to organizations dedicated to creating better opportunities for women and children in Third World countries
Most people get a bit nervous when they hear the words oil and skin in the same sentence. But there's no reason to get nervous. In fact, waxes, not oils, are the major cause of skin congestion. Applying oils to the skin, without the interference of a wax barricade, gives your skin the essential fatty acids it needs. These fatty acids, called lipids, form an environmental protection barrier that prevents the elements from assaulting our skin, keeping all skin types healthy. Research indicates that a compromised lipid barrier may be at the root of skin problems such as eczema, acne and wrinkles. MVO oils maintain the integrity of the lipid barrier, preventing moisture loss and dehydration. At the same time they inhibit peroxidative and oxidative damage. The reason you should care about that is, in a word, wrinkles. Upon contact with light, lipids will undergo what is known as peroxidation. These peroxidized lipids lose their barrier ability and gaps occur in the lipid matrix, resulting in a loss of skin resilience and the formation of wrinkles. Product Features
Combats aging with essential fatty acids and anti-oxidants from watermelon seed oil, vegetable squalene and apricot kernel oil.
Calms and balances with an elegant floral aroma from luxurious rose and neroli essential oils
Over 2 dozen roses are used to make one drop of rose absolute and there are 20 drops in every 4 oz bottle.
Protects and repairs the lipid barrier with essential fatty acids from avocado and jojoba oils.
Seals in moisture and leaves the skin supple, smooth and more refined.
As a person who has battled complexion problems, I am one that feared oils. Why would I want to put these on my already oily skin? The truth is that since I have started using organic tamanu oil, my skin has never looked better and has lost its oily qualities.
I don't really believe in fighting aging. I don't think we can. For me, it is more about keeping our skin in good health. MVO Anti-Aging Body Oil, Rose + Neroli is definitely a product that will become part of my daily beauty regime.
disclosure: The products described above were sent to us as free samples. Prior assurances as to the nature of the reviews, whether positive or negative, were not given. No financial payments were accepted in exchange for the reviews. The reviews reflect our honest, authentic opinions.
Sometimes it takes awhile for product reviews to be completed. Sometimes it takes so long, it appears an item is no longer available. This is one of those reviews.
When opening the box, the lovely smell of botanical oils was quite pleasing.
Even though these soaps are no longer available, Flying Daisies has many interesting products available to help you "Find Your Carefree".
We choose our own lifestyle. One that is not bound by any set path. We are playful and unique in our own way. We feel strength in our independence and creativity. We cherish our companions. We appreciate different approaches to life. Our imagination holds no boundaries. We seek to lead a simpler life, free from complexities. Like a field of daisies moving with the wind, we are alive, in motion, growing, and embracing the journey ahead.
The Boulder, Colorado, brand Flying Daisies was born out of the love for life. This love is the soul behind our products. It's a lifestyle that is carefree and adventurous. We strive to blend a way of life with this way of thinking. Our products embody this synergy, and hopefully inspire women to embrace their own
exploration of a free-spirited life.
disclosure: The products described above were sent to us as free samples. Prior assurances as to the nature of the reviews, whether positive or negative, were not given. No financial payments were accepted in exchange for the reviews. The reviews reflect our honest, authentic opinions.
I think that one of the first signs of aging we notice in ourselves and our parents/grandparents is memory loss. Little fleeting moments when information escapes us. For some, this memory loss evolves into something more serious. Caring for such an individual can cause depression, anxiety, anger, physical exhaustion, etc.
Designed for those giving care to individuals with Alzheimer's disease and other memory loss disorders, this informative and inspiring guide explores how to take care of oneself in order to meet the challenges of giving care to another. Heartfelt, candid accounts by television host Leeza Gibbons and the members of her family--who cared for Leeza's mother, Jean, for more than a decade after her Alzheimer's diagnosis--are combined with current medical, nutritional, psychological, and spiritual information and advice for caregivers. A comprehensive resources section and photo scrapbook of Leeza and her family are also included.
I can't imagine the difficulties caregivers face. I've seen how it has affected friends, and this book could help focus some of the energy back on taking care of yourself.
disclosure: The products described above were sent to us as free samples. Prior assurances as to the nature of the reviews, whether positive or negative, were not given. No financial payments were accepted in exchange for the reviews. The reviews reflect our honest, authentic opinions.
There isn't anything green about this book, but it was sent to use for review.
The first time I ever saw an Alabama Dirt Shirt was when my sister got one for my husband for a gift. I thought the red color was very cool, especially considering the shirt was made of organic cotton and naturally dyed from the earth.
Earth Creations, the sustainable clothing company behind the Alabama Dirt Shirts, also makes children's clothing.
A soft handprint with the Earth in the palm reminds us to Touch the Earth Gently. Printed using eco friendly inks on our soft 100% organic cotton clay-dyed toddler/youth tee that will fit any child like a glove.
Eco Creations makes sustainable clothing for the whole family made in the USA. Great basics and fashion pieces makes this line "eco, pure and simple".
disclosure: The products described above were sent to us as free samples. Prior assurances as to the nature of the reviews, whether positive or negative, were not given. No financial payments were accepted in exchange for the reviews. The reviews reflect our honest, authentic opinions.
When parent educator and author Barbara Unell discovered her Uncle Dan's fifth grade report card from 1914, she found an amazing 2-sided treasure. Yes, this was not your ordinary school report card. The left side listed the subjects taught at school...reading, writing, arithmetic, and the like.
But... the right side...ah yes! The "right side" was of equal importance!! It was the home report of the subjects that were expected to be taught at home-truthfulness and honesty, morning chores, evening chores, care of clothing, care of teeth, evenings at home, sleeping with the windows open, and a dozen more! Her grandparents noted the progress of her uncle in learning these right-side habits, just as the teacher marked the left side.
I love the partnership between home and school such a report card promotes: equal responsibility toward educating the whole child. One side is not blaming the other for not doing their job, like often happens in today's world. Parents blame faulty schools; teachers blame parenting. Kids fail.
Uncle Dan's Report Card reminds us of the importance of these values in building strength and character.
Using lessons from the past and applying to modern times, the Unells offer great advice for parenting. Of particular interest to me was the selection on assigning household chores to kids, or the avoidance of doing so, in order to create harmony in the home. I fall into this trap, as it is easier to do it myself than be a nag, but I am not teaching my children responsibility, or more importantly accountability, as a result.
I love how sleeping with the windows open is included on the 1914 report card! Fresh air is important for health!
disclosure: The products described above were sent to us as free samples. Prior assurances as to the nature of the reviews, whether positive or negative, were not given. No financial payments were accepted in exchange for the reviews. The reviews reflect our honest, authentic opinions.
Kids need snacks. Kids like sweets. Combining whole grains with 12 vitamins and minerals kids need into an energy bar is a great way to meet nutritional demands and sweet cravings.
Clif Kid ZBar comes in many flavors. We were sent the Iced Oatmeal Cookie to try:
Lots of goodness in these 95% organic bars. Of course, there is no high fructose corn syrup, trans fats, or artificial anything. You can feel good about giving your kids (or yourself) these snacks.
disclosure: The products described above were sent to us as free samples. Prior assurances as to the nature of the reviews, whether positive or negative, were not given. No financial payments were accepted in exchange for the reviews. The reviews reflect our honest, authentic opinions.
I used to read the Sierra Club's magazine Sierra religiously, that is until I became jaded over this large environmental group founded by John Muir. The truth is, despite my own feelings about the group endorsing Clorox products, is publications like Sierra are full of great articles and photographs that reach many individuals that would not seek or access this environmental information otherwise.
This month's magazine features the following articles:
AT HOME IN A HOLE IN THE ROCK
From ancient cliff dwellers to cowboys to modern hikers, everyone craves a good cave.
MICHAEL ENGELHARD
THE LAST OF THE SOUTHWEST
A mountain biker discovers the veiled beauty of New Mexico's Otero Mesa.
PETER FRICK-WRIGHT
MONUMENTAL PLACES
Hey, Mr. President: Save these treasures!
TWO WHEELS, NOT FOUR
Gear for getting out of your gas-guzzler.
MICHAEL FRANK
PIRATES OF THE RAINFOREST
Hunting moss poachers in the Olympus Peninsula.
GREGG BLEAKNEY
FRACTURED LIVES
The detritus of Pennsylvania's natural gas boom.
EDWARD HUMES
Sierra is definitely a good read, but the Sierra Club is not without controversy. The "secret" donations of $26 million from the natural gas industry has left many people wondering about the group's ability to live up to its ethos.
I prefer to give my money to smaller, more localized environmental groups.
disclosure: The products described above were sent to us as free samples. Prior assurances as to the nature of the reviews, whether positive or negative, were not given. No financial payments were accepted in exchange for the reviews. The reviews reflect our honest, authentic opinions.
Wembé's secret recipe provides an exquisite antioxidant action for deep moisturizing of delicate areas. The base of the formula is Rosehip oil, which is rich in antioxidants and vitamin A. Infused with our perfected formula, the firm, smooth moisturizing stick offers comfort to chapped lips and can also be used on any skin surface to alleviate dryness and sagging. It's perfect for your lips, eye contour and cheeks.
This product is everything you want in skin care: vegan, cruelty-free, gluten-free, organic, handmade, etc.
I really love the bamboo packaging! It makes the product seem of higher quality, which it is, and something I will take care of rather than a plastic lip balm that inevitably gets tossed and lost.
Of course, this product is luxurious to your lips, and I can't wait to try it on my eyes before bed, as recommended.
disclosure: The products described above were sent to us as free samples. Prior assurances as to the nature of the reviews, whether positive or negative, were not given. No financial payments were accepted in exchange for the reviews. The reviews reflect our honest, authentic opinions.
TRANSFORM YOUR SKIN WITH HOMEMADE SOAPS
Pamper yourself with natural moisturizing lather. Indulge your senses with aromatic fragrances. Beautify your bath with stunning soap that you've created. This book shows how to take wonderful ingredients and turn them into amazing soaps like:
Including easy step-by-step directions and helpful instructive photos, The Natural Soap Chef is chockfull of inventive recipes and techniques that will teach you basic cold process soap making. Make your own luxurious bars and unique soaps right in your own kitchen that will please even the most sensitive skin.
These soap recipes look good enough to eat, but of course you wouldn't want to. They do include Lye (Sodium Hydroxide), which is one of the reasons I have never gotten into soap making. I have used lye when making an indigo bath for natural dyeing; this caustic substance needs to be handled carefully. Lye is important in the process of saponification. There are ways to make soap without lye, but they are less common.
The pictures in this book are quite beautiful and inspirational. The instructions are clear and easy to follow. I think this book is just what I need to start my adventures in soap making.
disclosure: The products described above were sent to us as free samples. Prior assurances as to the nature of the reviews, whether positive or negative, were not given. No financial payments were accepted in exchange for the reviews. The reviews reflect our honest, authentic opinions.
As we spend more time outside during the warmer months, inevitably we need more first aid. Many Americans routinely apply triple antibiotic cream to wounds unnecessarily, and antibiotic resistance is a very real problem caused by such overuse.
StaphAseptic First Aid Bactericide Gel is an alternative to triple antibiotic cream that uses tea tree and white thyme oil. The rest of the ingredients are not very natural.
Antibiotic free. Kills staph. Apply to minor cuts, scrapes and burns. Helps prevent skin infections from bacteria such as MRSA, staph, strep & other germs. Contains Lidocain for pain relief. Child resistant tube. Recommended by athletic trainers. Staph prevention program: Everyone is talking about staph: you can do something about it. Treat & cover wounds. Don't share personal items (like towels). Shower after physical activity. Properly clean gear & equipment. Keep hands clean. Consult your physician for all active wounds. Help protect yourself from skin infections. StaphAseptic helps prevent staph infections when used as a part of a complete staph prevention program. Antibiotic free. Maximum strength antiseptic. Non-irritating. Soothing wound care.
This product was actually investigated by the FDA for making MSRA killing claims. It was considered misbranded, and a new package has been developed. Actually, I am not sure this product is even still available, as its website is no longer active. It is still available through Amazon.
Sometimes there is a need for strong wound care, but most often natural methods are just as effective. Goldenseal sprinkled on wounds is very powerful at healing and preventing infection in my experience.
disclosure: The products described above were sent to us as free samples. Prior assurances as to the nature of the reviews, whether positive or negative, were not given. No financial payments were accepted in exchange for the reviews. The reviews reflect our honest, authentic opinions.
Terry Walters' first book, CLEAN FOOD, caused a sensation and fueled a nationwide movement about nourishment and clean food that's been embraced all the way to the White House. Cooks, foodies, and anyone in search of a healthy and sustainable approach to eating and living well embraced her philosophy: eat minimally processed foods for maximum nutrition. CLEAN FOOD taught us the benefits of eating locally grown, seasonal, and fresh. And now, CLEAN START makes it even easier for everyone-from the kitchen novice to the seasoned chef-to eat clean. CLEAN START features 100 exciting new recipes for the foods we all need more of, featuring Terry's signature quick, easy, and delicious preparations. CLEAN START inspires you to take the next step...no matter where you're starting.
I haven't tried any of the recipes yet, but these are a few that I can't wait to make:
Polenta Pizza
Asparagus with Miso Lemon Dressing and Marcona Almonds
New Year's Soup
Blueberry Tart
All of the ingredients are whole foods! The photographs are mouth-watering and beautiful! Mmmm, I'm hungry.
disclosure: The products described above were sent to us as free samples. Prior assurances as to the nature of the reviews, whether positive or negative, were not given. No financial payments were accepted in exchange for the reviews. The reviews reflect our honest, authentic opinions.
Detoxification plays an important role in dieting, so look to our healthy fasting tea as part of your weight loss plan. Our flavorful blend of traditional herbs helps detoxify the body and supports stamina and digestion as you diet. A blend of organic red clover with burdock and dandelion supports the liver in eliminating toxins. Licorice supports overall stamina, and Garcinia cambogia supports the body's ability to stay lean. Finally, fennel and cinnamon bark improve circulation and aids digestion. Enjoy healthy fasting as a tasty addition to your weight loss program!
I love this tea!!! It is wonderful to drink between meals! It tastes great and truly helps you fast or reduce your calorie intake. It is an essential part of any healthy diet plan.
It's summer time, which means it's time for refreshing beverages! In celebration of their tenth anniversary, Izze is releasing a limited edition flavor. Izze Sparkling Lemon Soda
"IZZE was founded on the belief that pure, simple ingredients provide the ultimate refreshment and ten years later we continue to stay true to that mission," said Joe Culella, director of marketing, IZZE Sparkling Juice. "Lemon was one of the original flavors when IZZE first came to market in 2002, and we couldn't think of a better way to celebrate our ten years than to bring back a flavor our community loves."
I don't know why they would ever take this flavor away if it was so popular.
Each bottle contains 130 calories and is made from 70% juice. Each bottle equates to two full servings of fruit based on USDA guidelines. Unfortunately, it is not organic.
I think it would be quite lovely in a cocktail.
I prefer simple water for summertime refreshment.
disclosure: The products described above were sent to us as free samples. Prior assurances as to the nature of the reviews, whether positive or negative, were not given. No financial payments were accepted in exchange for the reviews. The reviews reflect our honest, authentic opinions.
Last year, the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) attempted to tackle the problem of inaccurate sunscreen labeling. Unfortunately, the FDA has kowtowed to the beauty industry and delayed the new rules for sunscreen labels until December 2012.
Ideal for swimmers, hikers and outdoor enthusiasts, this hardworking sport formula goes on smoothly with nourishing kukui and macadamia nut oils and other plant-based skin hydrators.You'll love its exotic natural scent, inspired by the tropics.
This fragrance free, physical sunscreen is ideal to protect sensitive skin from sun damage. A blend of Chamomile and Marigold (Calendula) Extracts helps calm and soothe skin. Safe for use on babies six months and older as well as adults with sensitive skin.
Both products are about the same price ($11-$12). Both contain Zinc oxide and Titanium Dioxide, which they need in order to claim UVA protection.
The Environmental Working Group (EWG) has done extensive research on sunscreens.
Both the Aubrey and Jason sunscreens have low hazard scores of 2 out of 10. Both have excellent sunscreen stability.
These products are very similar, but Aubrey is a brand I trust more than Jason. I have used the Aubrey sunscreen extensively on backpacking trips. It held up to sweat and water well. I have not tested the Jason sunblock as thoroughly.
disclosure: The products described above were sent to us as free samples. Prior assurances as to the nature of the reviews, whether positive or negative, were not given. No financial payments were accepted in exchange for the reviews. The reviews reflect our honest, authentic opinions.
Sometimes I am sent products that have nothing to do with "Really Natural". I clearly state to publicists and companies the ethos of this blog. I feel obligated to review every product sent, thus I can hopefully exposed products that are not environmentally-friendly.
I do like these metal-free hair ties. I use them all the time.
It is quite ironic that these products are promoted as "America's No.1 elastic" since they are made in China. Goody's response:
WHY AREN'T YOUR PRODUCTS MADE IN THE USA?
Like many other companies, Goody has had to compete in the highly competitive retail marketplace by being focused on the cost to develop and manufacture our products. Which means Goody continually investigates opportunities to manufacture our products in countries, including the US, which will allow Goody to manufacture highly quality products at a great value to our customers and consumers.
disclosure: The products described above were sent to us as free samples. Prior assurances as to the nature of the reviews, whether positive or negative, were not given. No financial payments were accepted in exchange for the reviews. The reviews reflect our honest, authentic opinions.
This botanically rich, non-greasy daily lotion naturally delivers deep, long-lasting hydration. Our natural blend of Vitamin C & E and Kukui Nut Oil wraps skin in relieving comfort while calming Lavender soothes your senses. With use, skin is touchably soft, balanced and relaxed.
Once again, a Jason's product receive a moderate score from the Environmental Working Group. This lotion received a hazard score of six out ten. I like my products to have much lower scores.
Ironically, it is the fragrance that I like that received the highest marks for toxicity. Also, the polysorbate-60 could be contaminated with the carcinogen 1,4-Dioxane.
disclosure: The products described above were sent to us as free samples. Prior assurances as to the nature of the reviews, whether positive or negative, were not given. No financial payments were accepted in exchange for the reviews. The reviews reflect our honest, authentic opinions.
In Australia, the Eucalyptus tree is the primary source of food for Koalas. Research has found that unlike most animals, the Koala's Eucalyptus diet ensures that they do not have to worry about fleas, lice or other parasites!
Eucalyptus Essential Oil is so effective, potent, and versatile; it is no surprise that it's the most important ingredient in our 3-in-1 solution for your entire household.
All Natural EucoClean 3-in-1 harnesses the power of all-natural, pure Eucalyptus Essential Oil to effectively eliminate bugs, knock out tough grease and grime, AND freshen and purify your air conditioning system! You can't do THAT with your everyday bug spray!
This product not only can be used for bed bug prevention, but it is also a cleaner and and air purifier.
I find the bright green color of this product a bit suspect. Also, the above commercial is very annoying.
disclosure: The products described above were sent to us as free samples. Prior assurances as to the nature of the reviews, whether positive or negative, were not given. No financial payments were accepted in exchange for the reviews. The reviews reflect our honest, authentic opinions.
Celadon Road Organic and Natural Products: Discover Your Shade of Green, but Would You Pay to be a Hostess?
As mentioned in a previous review, I am always suspect of Jason Natural Cosmetic products, as they typically are 
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