Natural Mumma
Issue Five December 2017
Taking Care Of Yourself, Your Tribe And Our World
DRESS TO
IMPRESS Chic & Sustainable Partywear
Winter Holidays Unwrapped Exploring Ethical Tourism & Travel
Not Just A Pretty Face Season’s Best Eco Makeup
The Mane Event
Toxin Free Hairstyling
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This gentle guide starts with planning your pregnancy and then takes you on a week-by-week journey through a holistic and healthy pregnancy, an active birth and the precious early months of being a parent. With chapters dedicated to caring for a newborn and looking after yourself both before and after birth, it offers personal insight, instruction and advice from Holly and Samantha who specialize in pregnancy yoga, massage and active birth. The Natural Baby covers all you need to know before, during and after your pregnancy: *how to prepare for pregnancy *a week-by-week description of your baby’s growth *exercise and complementary therapies *natural remedies *how to have an amazing birth experience *tips on breastfeeding *naturally nutritious weaning *home-made organic beauty preparations for the mother *delicious and healthy recipes for before, during, and after pregnancy
What the critics say about ‘The Natural Baby’: “Samantha and Holly empower parents with the information & wisdom to help them make the best choices for their families... They have the perfect set of complementary skills and knowledge to write about natural parenting...Here is a book that will act like a best friend.” - Melissa Corkhill The Green Parent magazine “Absolutely brilliant! I wish I’d had it when I got pregnant.” - Katie Hill My Green Pod Magazine “With practical, helpful advice on every aspect of life as a new mum” - Naomi McElroy The Irish Daily Star “The only baby book you’ll ever need” - Sparkles & Stretchmarks
Available through www.naturalmumma.com and all good bookshops 2
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Welcome to Contents Natural Mumma Magazine 6
Better to Travel Perfect holiday destinations for winter
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Not just a pretty face Our pick of the best chemical free party makeup
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Life & soul How to buy ethical partywear
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Natural Mumma Makes... Boozy blackberry lamb
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Hair of the gods Hair styling products without the toxins
Welcome to Natural Mumma We’re fully in the festive spirit here at Natural Mumma. We’ve spent the month looking into how to find the perfect ethical party dress and playing with some beautiful chemical free makeup for a glamorous yet natural look that is kind to your skin and the environment. We’ve found out about the toxins in traditional hair styling products and discovered the most gentle alternatives. We relieved our freezer of the autumn’s blackberry harvest in our boozy blackberry lamb dish, slow cooked to perfection it’s the perfect feast to share with loved ones accompanied by a robust red wine. We’ve been dreaming of holidays and thinking about ethical tourism. Our ‘Natural Mumma Loves...’ pages are full of inspiration that are ideal for Christmas gifts or a little personal indulgence and showcase our favourite beauty, health,
Photo by Gerard Hughes Contact: holly@ naturalmumma.com Makeup by Inika, Green People, MiA Paris and PHB Ethical Beauty.
fashion and lifestyle products. As the year draws to a close we want to thank you all for supporting our magazine, it’s been an exciting year and we can’t wait to see what 2018 brings! NMM December 2017
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Natural Mumma Loves... Win Green
Believing that children should be inspired to explore their imaginations through creative play, Win Green have created an enchanting collection of beautiful hand embroidered playhouses, wigwams and accessories that aim to encourage interaction and promote imaginative learning. Designed in the UK, they are created in India using traditional Indian weaving and dying techniques; the production of which has helped empower rural women to gain financial freedom for their families. With imaginative designs for boys and girls, you’re sure to find the perfect backdrop for your little one’s adventures… whatever magical tales of make believe they choose to explore! www.wingreen.co.uk
Postcards Home
In a world of disposable toys, Postcards Home brings you a collection of real keepers. Hand crafted from block printed pure cotton using organic dyes, every colourful creature in the Postcards Home toy collection has a friendly face that has been lovingly hand stitched by The Sambhali Trust in Jodhpur, India. Available in a rainbow of colours and characters, every purchase supports The Sambhali Trust and the fantastic work they do towards the empowerment of women and girls in Rajasthan. www.postcardshome.co.uk
Very Merry Berry
A British brand with Spanish flare and ethical ethos. Bringing Spanish flair to UK shores, Very Merry Berry, is a new affordable luxury online brand that showcases the highest quality children’s wear and home décor. Aimed at parents that want the best quality without compromising on style or ethics, the brand’s beautiful collection is made up of timeless pieces that ensures longevity and endorses the slow fashion movement. www.verymerryberry.co.uk
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Art Tiffin The Art Tiffin is the first ever brand bringing 100 per cent vegan, cruelty free art materials. Featured in Metro, Telegraph and The Guardian, they are a social enterprise campaigning for creativity to support mental wellbeing of the nation, and donate from each box sold to MIND and Young Minds.
The Christmas Box The Art Tiffin Christmas Gift Box brings creative inspiration and an ethical alternative to mindless consumerism and waste over the festive season. It also includes a carefully selected vegan prosecco bottle, as after all it is a time to celebrate and raise a glass to all your achievements this year!
Children’s Art Tiffin The Children’s Art Tiffin boxes aim to support parents in fostering the values of kindness and creativity in children from a young age, bringing carefully tested products for emotional, social and physical development and the wellbeing of children. As parents themselves, these values are important to the team behind Art Tiffin.
The Art Explorer’s Box The Art Explorers Box is a brand new and completely unique art appreciation programme bringing art history to your children in a fun, engaging and colourful way. Art education has so many developmental benefits for children from a young age. Read why here. Developed by art and psychology professors, museum educators, artists and children, there is a launch offer on this until 15 December.
www.thearttiffin.co.uk
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BETTER TO
TRAVEL Holidays offer a rich insight into other cultures and give us a greater understanding of our beautiful world, but travel can wreak havoc on the environment. Luckily you can still travel ethically with a little thought.
H
olidays are not only a great way to unwind, inspire and excite us but they can also offer a rich insight into other cultures and give us a greater understanding of our beautiful world. As a parent, this feels like the most valuable sort of education. Yet global travel can wreak havoc on the environment and without careful consideration holidaying can be worryingly unethical.
WINTER SUN The colder months can make even the most optimistic of souls long for the summer. If the lack of sunshine is getting you down then jetting off to the other side of
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the world might be just what the doctor ordered. If you are looking for ethical options, then websites such as Responsible Travel can point you in the right direction. With a focus on treating local people with fairness and respect, there are holidays available to meet every taste. Sri Lankan beach holidays, luxury yurts in the Canary Islands, trips that focus on conservation, Thai adventures, yacht cruises and eco hotels in Flores – you’ll find something to beat the winter blues.
SPIRIT OF THE SEASON Sweden is renowned for its eco-friendly focus and it is also a
wonderful place to celebrate the beauty of the season. Sweden is the perfect winter wonderland, with snow-topped rooftops, freshly baked gingerbread, the Northern Lights and ice hotels. Sweden boasts some of the most breathtaking landscapes, and the focus on local, seasonal produce is refreshing and inspiring. The town of Abisko is one of the best places to view the Northern Lights and with its majestic mountains and Scandinavia’s largest alpine lake, it is the perfect setting for a festive winter holiday. From the National Park, you can even take a course in aurora borealis or alpine photography.
“Sweden boasts some of the most breathtaking landscapes, and the focus on local, seasonal produce is refreshing and inspiring...� NMM December 2017
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HOME FROM HOME
ETHICAL TRAVEL TIPS
If you want to get away for some peace and quiet for the festive season but appreciate the comfort of cosy and homely surroundings, then a cottage can be a great way to secure some quality time as a family. You could book a larger house to share with extended family and friends to split costs, while sharing childcare and cookery duties. Travel specialist Sawday’s offer a collection of handpicked accommodation in both the UK and Europe, including an impressive ethical collection. The range includes self-catering apartments and cottages, B&Bs and even eco hotels for those who want a little luxury.
When you are visiting a new country, it pays to act responsibly: 1. When buying from locals, pay what something is worth to you. Consider how wealthy you are compared to the local people. Low prices can be tempting but when it comes to haggling show some respect and be sure to pay fairly. 2. Try to pay money directly to local people where possible. Buy local brands rather than imported and stay in independent locally owned accommodation rather than global chains. Buy what you can when you arrive rather than taking too much from home. Do some research and find out if any local schools would benefit from supplies while you are there.
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3. Look out for the Souvenir Alert label when buying products abroad. The campaign was founded by the World Wildlife Fund to stop international trade in products made from endangered and protected species. 4. Research the trade in the area before you go. Avoid any souvenirs that could threaten endangered wildlife. Elephant ivory is prevalent in Asia and Africa, some Chinese medicines contain leopard, tiger and rhino, souvenirs made from sea turtle shells are popular in the Caribbean, shatoosh antelope wool shawls which are banned in Tibet. Stay aware and be sure to avoid any activities that encourage animal cruelty.
5. Discovering more about new cultures is one of the most enchanting things about visiting a new destination. Always be aware of what sort of behaviour is acceptable and show respect for the local people. 6. Reduce your footprint. Be aware of your rubbish. Take a water filter bottle with you and consider packing biodegradable products to see you through the holiday. Be aware of how much of resources such as water, fuel and electricity you are using. Travel by public transport where possible and minimise internal flights. Try to use eco-friendly toiletries including sun creams, soaps and deodorant.
7. Respect the local wildlife and habitats. Stick to footpaths, respect the environment and support local conservation efforts where possible. Leave wildflowers and shells where you find them. 8. Consider your photos. People are not part of the landscape. Always ask permission before taking photos. Photography can be a wonderful way of capturing the spirit of a country but also raising awareness of social concerns. You may like to use your photos to bring attention to a certain cause, donating money to local charities or local people in return. 9. Guide books can be greatly useful and the internet is brimming with travel tips, however
if you want to get a real feel for a place then a local guide will have a deeper insight into the culture, and hiring them is a great way to support the local economy. 10. Before booking, check out the travel company’s policy on responsible tourism. If the company is yet to produce a document, ask them what they do to minimise negative social, environmental and cultural impacts. What do they do to respect human rights and how do they support the local economy? These questions will ensure that you are travelling with the right company but also make them consider what they can do to improve the ethical implications of their business. NMM December 2017
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Natural Mumma Loves... Lüks Linen The Hakan peshtemal from Lüks is the ideal gift for those who love to travel. Ethically made and hand loomed from 100 per cent cotton the Hakan is a towel, scarf & sarong rolled into one. Lightweight & quick drying these peshtemals fold down small and will easily fit into a ruck sack or carry on. Price £25.00 www.lukslinen.com
Surviving Society Surviving Society is a startup clothing brand selling ethical and eco-friendly Mama merch celebrating and empowering women. The Fierce Femme and Fierce Mini slogan tees are bestsellers with next year seeing new additions including enamel pins, badges, tote bags and sweatshirts. www.survivingsociety.bigcartel.com
Moon Tribe Follow The Moon - A new label for mindful movement designed in London, Moon Tribe creates ethical clothes for contemporary yogis. After launching their first collection, “Discover Your Light”, last summer their beautiful tops can now be found in London’s leading yoga studios. The collection is available online from £35. www.moontribe.co.uk
Yours Sustainably This slimline cork wallet would make a great ‘green’ gift for a special man. Cork is both lightweight and flexible, and is a natural ecofriendly alternative to leather being both PETA approved and 100 per cent vegan. With 2 inside pockets, 6 card slots and space for notes, this wallet has plenty of eco style. Comes packaged in a presentation box. Made in Portugal. www.yourssustainably.comcom/
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Mosaiqe
Mosiaqe’s beautiful wooden watches - thanks to their graining, pigment and texture - make for a unique gift. Their range of neutral colours mean they are a perfect match for all skin tones and styles. Sustainability is a key part of their mission – one watch purchased plants five trees. Get 20 per cent off with code naturalmumma20. www.mosaiqe.com
Next Month In
Natural Mumma THE WAY YOU LOOKED
Makeup Looks Through The Decades
THE SWEETEST THINGS
Vintage Puddings For The Whole Family
THE RAG TRADE
Sourcing & Styling Vintage Clothing NATURAL MUMMA MAGAZINE ISSUE 6 AVAILABLE FROM 5 JANUARY 2017
Natural Mumma Magazine December 2017
NMM Team Editor: Holly Daffurn
holly@naturalmumma.com
Creative: Gerard Hughes mail@gerardhughes.co.uk
Cover Image by Gerard Hughes www.naturalmumma.com Natural Mumma Magazine
is produced by T5 Publications. Contents may not be reproduced, stored or distributed in any form without prior written permission. All reasonable efforts have been made to ensure all information contained in this magazine is accurate but the publishers can accept no responsibiilty for effects arising therefrom. All rights reserved.
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Not just a pretty fac
Our pick of the best natural and chemical free cosmetics for the PHB Ethical Beauty Botanical BB Cream, Natural Eye Liner & Mineral Bronzer The beautifully lightweight BB cream gives you that coveted lit from within look that is ideal for the party season. It leaves your skin feeling soft and smooth while balancing out the skin tone, covering imperfections and adding a subtle radiant glow. I love how this product nourishes and protects the skin while providing an even and flawless base. The Pressed Mineral Bronzer is a sumptuous, soft powder that glides on and offers just a hint of shimmer. Perfect for subtle contouring or a natural sunkissed glow. The Eyeliner features a slimline brush makes this a delightfully buildable and versatile product. From subtle accentuation to vampish feline flicks the gentle formula is suitable for even the most sensitive of eyes.
Green People Volumising Mascara & Velvet Matte Lipstick
An outstanding mascara that offers exquisite length and volume. For coquettish lashes that are ideal for dramatic eyes and understated glamour. This mascara conditions your lashes while offering fantastic pigment. For a subtle dash of natural colour, the moisturising lipstick offers the perfect accompaniment to played up party eyes. Your lips are left feeling soft and nourished with a pleasing matte finish.
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ce...
e festive season
MIA Cosmetics Paris Moisturising Lipstick & Nail Polishes
MiA’s moisturising lipsticks keep your lips feeling soft and smooth with a range of stunning durable colours. Their Crimson Carnation is a striking classic red that is perfect for Christmas parties and festive dinners. For a softer look Sassy Saffron is a flattering pink shade that will suit all skin tones. From classic French manicure shades to contemporary cool blues, vibrant hues and timeless reds, MiA’s quality nail polishes are available in a spectrum of colours. Created without the most toxic and harmful ingredients, these nail polishes are kind to your nails and your health.
Inika Organic Light Reflect Cream
This all-natural illuminator is the perfect way to add a sophisticated luminosity to your skin. A quick and easy way to enhance your cheekbones, it also looks stunning on the eyelids with a sweep of liquid liner and lashings of mascara. Using certified organic ingredients, natural mineral pigments and mica for a lightweight and longlasting formula that brightens and enhances the skin. NMM December 2017
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Natural Mumma Loves... Luna Minerals Luna Minerals is an up and coming natural beauty brand that you need to know about! These products are refillable so you save money as well as the environment. Proudly Australian made and owned, Luna Minerals delivers luxurious makeup that is toxic free and made from high quality natural and organic ingredients. www.lunaminerals.com @luna_minerals
TLC Style and Colour What we wear makes a visual statement about how we feel about ourselves. Makeup is an extension of this and a quick, easy and cost effective way to instantly update our look. The Colour me Beautiful cruelty free cosmetic range is prescribed to a person’s individual colouring so you only buy shades to suits you, making you feel fantastic and limiting waste through the magnetic compact system. Fill your magnetic compact with eye, lip and cheek shades merely replacing what you use. www.tlcstyleandcolour.co.uk
Etieno
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This vegan-friendly, nutrient rich 100% natural hair oil helps to repair, grow and nourish dry, irritated, sensitive scalps and hair. When your hair is crying out for some love and affection, give it a real treat with this gorgeous, moisturising miracle worker. www.etieno.co.uk December 2017 NMM
Baby Bath Time Vauva Natural Baby Shampoo & Body Wash and Newborn Baby Oil are especially formulated to soothe, protect and deeply moisturise the fragile skin of your baby. Dedicated to bringing the best to your little one through the power of plants and the finest all natural ingredient blends. It not only helps balance skin’s pH level, but also helps to reduce irritations and dryness. www.vauvanatural.com
Natural Reed Diffuser Vauva Natural baby aromatherapy products, fragranced with organic essential oils, crafted to gently scent your baby’s room. The calming aroma blends notes of earthy Sandalwood, exotic Ylang-ylang, relaxing Lavender and soothing Chamomile creating harmonious and peaceful atmosphere that helps your baby drift off into a quiet and restful sleep. www.vauvanatural.com
Stretch Mark Oil
Atlantis Skincare Stretch Mark Oil for Pregnant Belly. A superior blend of nature’s most nurturing oils and Vitamin E prepares your skin for body shape changes. Increases skins strength and elasticity. Gentle treatment oil for mothers to be to help prevent and minimise the appearance of stretch marks. Its light yet intensive formula helps to keep your skin healthy, soft and flexible as it stretches. Handmade using only natural and organic ingredients. atlantisskincare.com
Bone Health
Osteonorm natural calcium citrate is a valuable form of calcium supplement even for those who are lactose intolerant. It’s 100% natural, formulated using eggshell powder and safe to take daily in recommended dosages for both, children and adults to maintain strong bones, teeth, muscles, healthy heart and nervous system. www.calciumcitrate.co
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LIFE & SOUL
We’ve all suffered for beauty, but should the environment, our fellow humans and animals suffer too? When it comes to going ethical, buying special occasion wear can be one of the hardest to get right...
W
hen it comes to staying true to your ethical principles, finding that conversation stopping dress can be incrediby difficult. So where do you start? What should you be looking out for? How are you going to find that perfect dress?
GO TIMELESS You may be drawn to certain colours or cuts that are achingly hot right now, but you need to consider the long term and be realistic about whether you’ll get your wear out of a garment. Anything too faddy will start to look dated within a matter of months and will no doubt end up pushed to the back of the wardrobe before eventually making its pilgrimage to the charity shop. Instead opt for classic cuts, timeless pieces that will last for years and quality clothing that is built to last and
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is truly sustainable. The latest trend pieces won’t necessarily suit you and you also run the risk of blending into the crowd. Finding something unique will make you stand out in the best possible way. It’s safe to say that red will always be popular at this time of year and has consistently made its way into every AW collection for many decades. However, it takes a certain amount of confidence to wear a red dress and if it only gets an airing at Christmas, it may be better to opt for something that you feel more comfortable in. It is also worth thinking about skin tones, those with a cool colouring can look washed out in red (which looks stunning on anyone with a warmer skin tone). Likewise, you may feel like you can’t go wrong with the classic little black dress but it can leave anyone without a cool complexion looking washed out and tired. If
you have a pale complexion, you may decide to add some colour nearer your face to soften the look (perhaps with a shrug, bolero or scarf). You need to pick colours that suit your complexion and work well with the rest of your wardrobe. Fashion and trends shouldn’t come into it.
GO VINTAGE If you are looking for something special then genuine vintage wear can be a great ethical option. Vintage can be the perfect antidote to our throwaway culture. In this world of fast fashion, saving clothing from the landfill and lessening the production of new fibres has obvious ecological benefits – you just have to be careful where you source your vintage garb from. Some retailers throw the vintage and retro labels at anything and with reports of exploitation in sorting factories
Classic Shirt Dress Mila Vert via Sheer Apparel NMM December 2017
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Flow Dress by Jan ‘N June via Sheer Apparel
and “rag” being traded by the kilo, there is an unsavoury side to some aspects of the vintage textile trade. FairWertung is a German organisation who through extensive monitoring have identified duty avoidance scams and illegal import operations within the industry. Be sure to buy your vintage from small genuine retailers and not large corporations who are churning out vintage clothing like it’s fast fashion. Our Jan issue (out Jan 5th) is all about vintage style and how to source the most ethical vintage clothing, so be sure to join us for that one if you’re interested in sustainable vintage apparel.
DO YOUR RESEARCH Nowadays ethical purchases and slow fashion are increasing in popularity. This is fantastic news for the planet but it also means that more brands are throwing
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around words such as ethical and sustainable as a marketing tactic rather than a true indication of their products. If you are serious about going ethical then you’ll need to learn about certification and standards. The World Fair Trade Organization has developed ten principles that members must adhere to. With a focus on improved working conditions, pay and improved situations for women and children, you can be sure that any brand who is a member of the WFTO is playing by the rules. If purchasing organic textiles is important to you then the GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard) is one to look out for. In order to be certified, all garments must contain at least 70 per cent organic fibres as well as meeting strict toxicological, environmental and social criteria. In any clothing bearing the Fair
Trade mark there is traceability at every stage in production. It starts with cotton farming and the monitoring continues right through spinning, weaving, dyeing, printing, sewing and embroidery. The Ethical Fashion Forum offers a great list of certifications and memberships, to give you an idea of what to look out for.
ACCESSORISE If you’re lucky enough to have a packed social calender this season then you won’t want to buy a dress for each event. Look for a couple of key pieces that can be easily customised and create several looks that can be used throughout the year and not just for Christmas. Again, look for classic pieces that won’t date fast. The manufacturing methods of shoes and bags can be especially brutal so you’ll want to look out for Fair Trade options. Slow fashion is all about
Products we love... Benete Jumpsuit in Blush
The perfect jumpsuit for work and play. Made of comfortable, easy to care for Tencel in burgundy red. Wear with flats in the daytime, or dress it up with heels for after work. Also great with a slim white shirt underneath.
Skirt Seine by Jan ‘N June
Super cosy autumn and winter skirt in an organic cotton fleece. Very flattering and comfortable, with an elastic waistband. Great with a crisp shirt or your favourite knit.
selecting beautiful, quality items that last. With a little research and consideration you’ll slowly build a wardrobe that will fulfil your stylistic and practical needs while treating our earth and its people with the respect they deserve.
Useful Resources FAIRWERTUNG THE WORLD FAIRTRADE ORGANIZATION GLOBAL ORGANIC TEXTILE STANDARD ETHICAL FASHION
Daruma Blueberry dress Frieda Sand Classic dark blue A-line dress with pockets, made of silky organic cotton and modal fabric. We love it for its soft, sustainable fabric and timeless style. Easy to style with sandals for casual occasions and heels for the office or evenings. All available from Sheer Apparel www.sheer-apparel.com NMM December 2017
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Natural Mumma Loves... Liora Science is now revealing the extraordinary health-giving properties of chocolate. Liora beauty chocolate have developed an exciting new range of gourmet therapeutic chocolate. Blended carefully selected organic natural oils (all certified by the Soil Association the UK) packed with phytonutrients, trace elements and essential fatty acids – oils that appear to be particularly beneficial to both body and mind. www.liora-chocolate.com
Keep This Cracker
Add some glitz to your festive table with these Re-usable Christmas Crackers. Pull and they go bang but they don’t tear, to re-use, simply replace the broken snap. They come flat-packed and ready-made, just pop them into shape and fill them with your own choice of gifts. Made in UK and cost £16 for 6. www.keepthiscracker.com
Arya Candles Are you looking for a gift that is hand-crafted, all natural, and gives back to the global community? Lina & Jenny, founders of Arya, handcraft their gorgeous home fragrance products using 100 per cent natural ingredients, including essential oils for their therapeutic benefits. Every product contributes towards helping women from former wartorn countries rebuild their lives. Be part of the ripple effect. From candle to community. www.aryacandles.com
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The Gift That Keeps On Giving... The Natural Mumma Christmas Gift Guide 2017 Our pick of the latest and sustainable gifts · ethical fashion · natural skincare and beauty · health and wellbeing · parenting and motherhood · healthy living and good eating · ecology and conservation · conscious lifestyle choices
Catch up with Natural Mumma - all back issues available at Issuu
www.naturalmumma.com NMM December 2017
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“It’s a great way to use up your harvest from long autumnal walks ...”
You Will Need:
“It takes a lot of stress out of the festive season...”
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natural
mumma
makes
2 tbsp olve oil Rock salt Freshly milled pepper 2 tbsp plain flour A shoulder of lamb 2 small red onions 300 ml of red wine 1 ½ pints of stock 6 sprigs of rosemary 2 bay leaves 1 tbsp of peppercorns (crushed) 4 cloves of garlic (sliced in half) 3 parsnips 2 cups of puy or green lentils 2 generous handfuls of blackberries 1 handful of redcurrants 1 handful of blackcurrants 1 orange Serve with creamy mash or well-seasoned whole baby potatoes drenched in olive oil and succulent greens. If using frozen fruit, ensure they are fully defrosted first to prevent bacteria from flourishing.
natural mumma makes
Boozy Blackberry Lamb T
his dish is the perfect meal to make when you are entertaining friends and family. The rich, sumptuous aroma conjures up the spirit of the season and getting all the preparation out of the way early, means that you’ll be free to enjoy your guests without having to hide away in the kitchen. Slow cookers don’t just result in the most tender and delicious meat, they also allow you to keep things warm without spoiling until everyone is ready to eat which takes a lot of stress out of the festive season. I love the sweetness that the berries bring to this recipe, with just enough tartness to cut through the deep meaty flavours. It’s a great way to use up your harvest
from long autumnal walks and free up some freezer space. If you fancy making this recipe your own, delicious alternatives to berries include apples and plums or apricots and clementines. As well as being tasty, this meal is packed with nutrients. Blackberries, blackcurrants, redcurrants and oranges are all loaded with vitamin C and are great sources of antioxidants. This makes this dish the perfect winter immunity booster, just in time for the social season! Lentils are great for your heart, digestive system and are known to help lower cholesterol. This dish is healthy, delicious and beautifully simple to make. NMM December 2017
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1Tip!
Dust a plate with the flour and season well before adding the shoulder of lamb and rolling until each side is well-covered.
Tip!
2
Nam inum alia adicia Am Heat mi, the oil in ipsapid eiciolive Tem faccum
Nam inum alia adicia Am ipsapid mi, Tem faccum.
a large saucepan over a high heat and quickly yet carefully brown the lamb on all sides.
3
Place the lamb to one side before adding the roughly cubed onions to the pan. Fry them until they are soft.
4
Add the stock and wine to the pan and heat until it bubbles. Add the bay leaves, rosemary, crushed peppercorns and garlic to the liquid before turning off the heat.
5
Peel your parsnips and cut them into thick slices, layer them along the bottom of your slow cooker.
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Pour the lentils over the parsnips before adding the berries.
Place the lamb in the slow cooker, before pouring over the herby gravy. The liquid should cover the meat.
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Cook on high for five hours, resist the temptation to lift the lid to taste or stir – this adds an extra 20 minutes to cooking time and can compromise the flavour.
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After five hours, stir in the zest and juice of your orange (to brighten the flavours and cut through the richness). Season well with rock salt and freshly milled pepper.
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Serve with your choice of potatoes and greens and the remnants of the wine.
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natural mumma makes
And there you have it, an effortlessly simple yet decadent meal that begs to be shared with loved ones.
Natural Mumma YouTube Channel You can find this recipe and plenty more on the Natural Mumma YouTube channel NMM December 2017 25 www.youtube.com/naturalmumma
Natural Mumma Loves... Tribe Skincare Crocodile Oil Balm High Concentrate presents no side effects. It is suitable for all skin types, even for very sensitive skin, as it is free from parabens, silicon, sulphates, petroleum or synthetic dyes and fragrances. Contains no artificial fragrance or colour. It is safe for use on children starting from birth. www.tribeskincare.co.uk
Africology An age defying serum perfect for a more radiant complexion. Africology Anti-Oxidant Serum is bursting with gentle, natural, high performance active ingredients like antioxidants, vitamins, minerals and peptides that work to slow down the signs of ageing by toning and refining the skin. Works wonders around the delicate eye and lip areas. www.africologyspa.com
Ezape Naturals This Chamomile balm is handmade and contains 100 per cent natural and 55% per cent organic ingredients. Rich in antiinflammatory ingredients, it helps soothe dry and sensitive skin. This versatile balm can be used all over the body but is particularly great for use on hands, feet and is even gentle enough to protect babies’ delicate nappy area. www.ezapenaturals.co.uk
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The Soap Co A gift trio with a difference. Featuring the popular exfoliating soap pebble, an indulgent Geranium & Rhubarb body lotion and a handmade, hand stamped and hand wrapped cold processed soap. A very special gift. The delightful fragrance is the signature scent of The Soap Co new eco and bee friendly collection. This cold processed soap also contains Rubia cordifolia the root of the madder plant used in both traditional Chinese medicine and Ayurveda. www.thesoapco.org
Nourish
Nourish London’s Relax Hydrating Peptide Serum is a calming, cooling and highly effective hydrator that leaves your skin visibly healthy. Featuring lavender to soothe and tripeptides to stimulate collagen production for a smoother, fresher appearance. Recommended for sensitive skin. Organic and vegan, this is a treat your skin will love. www.nourishskinrange.com
Fresh Lifestyle The world’s first 100 per cent fresh, food-state skin and body care products crafted on order 8 times each month in Austria. 100 per cent free from parabens, mineral oils, fragrance, SLS and synthetic preservatives. These vegan, organic and cruelty free products are unisex and can be used by the whole family. www.freshlifestyle.eu/ringana
Silvan Skincare Beautiful oils provide gentle care for the face but also deliver a spectrum of vitamins, omegas and antioxidants to protect, soothe and nourish the skin. Silvan are a small business based on the Welsh Borders. All products are all hand blended in small batches using the highest quality organic and sustainable fresh ingredients. Their ethos is to create natural products, which don’t harm your skin or the environment. www.silvanskincare.com NMM December 2017
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HAIR OF THE
GODS We all know the dangers of using chemicals in our shampoos and conditioners, they can seriously deplete the nutrients in our hair as well as affecting our health but can you style your hair without resorting to toxins?
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ore and more of us are getting clued up about the carcinogens, chemicals and toxins in our beauty products. People are seeking out shampoos without SLS (Sodium Laureth Sulphate) and chemical free lipsticks, however when it comes to hair styling is it possible to achieve the desired glamour and hold without resorting to products laden with toxic ingredients? With party season hot on our heels, we thought it was the perfect time to delve into what really goes into hair styling products. When people turn chemical free, their hair styling
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products are usually the last thing to change but with the amount of chemicals involved they should be higher up the priorities list.
CHEMICALS TO AVOID If you use a thermal protection spray to prevent your hair from being ravaged by heat styling then you might think you are doing your locks a huge favour. While your hair may well retain more moisture, many of these sprays contain the chemical cyclopentasiloxane or cyclomethicone which converts into formaldehyde under high temperatures (such as the
damaging heat of a flat iron). Formaldehyde exposure is not only linked to cancer and dermatitis but it can also cause breathing difficulties, throat irritation and skin rashes. Formaldehyde is also found in many styling gels. Aerosol sprays are especially dangerous as tiny particles easily penetrate the lungs before being directly absorbed into the bloodstream. Chemicals that are deemed relatively harmful when applied externally soon convert into poisons when inhaled. Shellac, starch and plasticisers are all present in many hair
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sprays and have all been known to enlarge the lymph nodes. The FDA released a study showing precancerous lung changes in daily hair spray users, after six months without hair spray more than 50 per cent of the women made a complete recovery. The silicone that is used in hair sprays can also damage the eyes and natural eye fluid is not strong enough to wash it away. Corneal irritation is also common in hair spray users. If you are concerned about the chemicals in your styling products, then you can do a little research using online resources such as the Environmental Working Group’s Skin Deep Cosmetics Database According to the data provided by the EWG one of the leading global hairsprays is flagged up as high in the ‘overall hazard’ and ‘allergies & immunotoxicity’ categories. It also lists cellular level changes, endocrine disruption and skin, eye and lung irritation amingst its ‘high concerns’. If you look at the ingredients list of a conventional styling product
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you are more than likely to see polymers, benzaldehyde and a-terpineol present. Polymers and copolymers are plastics, benzaldehyde is a narcotic that is commonly used as a local anesthetic. It has associations with kidney damage and is a known irritant (ear, nose, throat and skin). A-terpineol can cause severe irritation to the mucous membranes and can lead to pneumonia and even fatal edema of the lungs. Many styling products are packed with known irritants such as PEG 40 and phenoxyethanol. Methyl paraben is commonly used in styling gels and is known to cause severe allergic reactions. The scalp is especially good at chemical absorption, due to the sheer quantity of hair follicles (averaging between 40,000 and 80,000). As toxic compounds can accumulate in tissues and organs over time, even applying products that contain small amounts of chemicals can be damaging in the long run. Chemical build up can even cause chronic effects to the
brain. Long term use of many of the chemicals contained in hair styling products is linked to cancer and organ damage. Styling gels, hair sprays and mousses can not only cause health complaints but they are also known to weaken the hair shaft and damage the scalp. Initially, many styling products may give an illusion of healthier hair by coating the hair shaft in a glossy film. However, they can leave hair compromised and lacking lustre. For instance, large quantities of alcohol are present in many styling products – this can cause serious dehydration to both the skin and hair. Silicone oils and plastic resins are common too. PVP is a plastic resin that can stay within the system for a year and has caused tumours to develop in laboratory rats. The good news is that more and more brands are responding to the demand for styling products that offer great hold, shine and control without causing major health risks. Natural brands often use botanical extracts and essential oils that really nourish and
Products We Love... John Masters Organics Bourbon Vanilla and Tangerine Hair Texturiser 57g Extra-strong hold from all-natural ingredients. Perfect for shaping hair into any desired style, from the “bedhead� look to smooth and silky. Castor oil, glycerin and 7 certified-organic oils add incredible shine and texture.
Lyonsleaf Mane Tamer 55ml
Lyonsleaf Mane Tamer can be used as both a deep conditioning treatment and hair wax to tame very dry hair, curls, dreadlocks or afro hair and dramatically improve split ends and damage.
Alterna Bamboo Style Ultra Hold Hair Spray protect your hair feeding it from the outside. Ingredients such as soybean protein, chia seeds and larch tree resin are used to maintain hold and add texture, nourishing oils such as argan oil are also popular and add beautiful luminosity and hydration to hair. Rather than stripping your hair of its moisture, natural alternatives will nourish the scalp, hydrate the hair and leave a pleasing aroma. It is also worth remembering that a good cut can add movement and texture to your hair and the best way to improve the appearance of your hair is through a nutrient rich diet. Your hair is often a good barometer of your general health and a shiny, luscious mane can only be achieved by a diet that is rich in vitamins and minerals. Drink plenty of water, nourish you hair with coconut oil masks and hair tonics and steer clear of damaging chemical products that could wreak havoc on your hair as well as your health.
This Ultra Hold Hair Spray from Alterna has a quick drying formula and is humidity resistant. It firmly holds hair in place and locks hair styles in place without being sticky or stiff.
Rahua Voluminous Spray 6oz
A versatile, pure plant-derived, organic, volumising spray and hair refresher for soft-hold and light texture that builds hair volume and revitalises the scalp while keeping hair in place.
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