'Tis The Sneezin: Herbs For Immune Support!

By Amber, Supplements Buyer + Herbalism Enthusiast

While leaving my apartment this morning to go to work, I saw my breath fog the air for the first time this year. The little cloud reminded me that cooler days are coming, and with them, cold and flu season. Here's some of Cambridge Naturals' favorite immune-boosting herbs and how to use them!

Andrographis (andrographis paniculata): Native to Southern Asia, andrographis has been used in both Ayurvedic medicine and Traditional Chinese Medicine for centuries as a remedy for the common cold. Early scientific research suggests it may stimulate the immune system to produce more of a specific type of cell called lymphocytes, which fight off diseases. The compounds in andrographis also possess anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. You can find it in tincture and capsule form, and it's also an ingredient in several of our Cambridge Naturals supplement blends like the perennial favorite Sinus Blaster.

Echinacea (echinacea purpurea and echinacea angustifolia): Echinacea is one of the more familiar immune-supporting herbs to many people and has cemented itself in the canon of Western medicine. Consequently, the scientific research supporting it is better established than many other herbal remedies. Its immune-boosting properties are well studied, and recent research has suggested a number of potential other benefits such as anti-inflammatory action and even possibly providing relief from anxiety. Aside from being available by itself in tincture and capsule form, it's also one of the primary ingredients in our Ginger Zinger Immune Syrup and Immuno-Well Rx formulations, and is a constant Bulk section favorite.

Elderberry (sambucus nigra): Elderberry stands out in the materia medica of immune-boosting herbs for being delicious as well as medicinal. The berries (which must be dried or cooked before use) and flowers are used in tinctures, teas, and syrups. They're particularly high in Vitamin C and may be useful in particular against sinus infections, bacterial infections, and potentially even the flu. However, elderberry can have a diuretic effect and bring on sweating, so it's important to drink plenty of water while using it! Both the berries and flowers are popular bulk herbs at CN, as well as the syrups, tinctures, and capsules made from them. 

Mullein (verbascum thapsus): One of our favorite wonderful weeds at Cambridge Naturals (and one whose virtues I've extolled on the CN Blog before)  mullein's antibacterial and expectorant properties have been the subject of much attention lately. This fluffy leaf makes an antitussive addition to a healing tea or an easy-to-consume tincture. Indigenous Americans used the leaves variously as a tea, a topical poultice, and as an ingredient in smoking blends. Mullein also has a long and respected history in African American herbal traditions; the Black agricultural scientist George Washington Carver notably endorsed its healing properties. It's one of the best-selling herbs in CN's Bulk Herbs section, and we've recently brought in tinctures and capsules  as well. 

Osha (ligusticum porteri): Osha grows mainly in the Rocky Mountains of the United States, and is related to the wild carrot (apiaceae) family. It is considered an important plant by many Indigenous American communities such as the Diné, who tell a story about learning to use the herb from watching wild bears consume it. Its gnarled, dark-brown roots are made into a tea or tincture valued for its antibacterial and anti-microbial properties. Early research suggests it may also protect against cellular damage due to its antioxidant compounds. You can find it in products like our Bronchial Syrup and Congest-Eeze capsules, as well as in a tincture by itself. 

These are only a handful of the products we stock to keep you feeling hale and hearty all year round. Check out our full stock on our website, or come in to our Porter Square location for a chat about what we've got to help you feel your best! 

Sources:

https://nativeplants.ku.edu/ethnobotany-research/ligusticum-osha 

https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-973/andrographis

https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/echinacea

https://www.mountsinai.org/health-library/herb/elderberry

https://theherbalacademy.com/blog/african-american-herbalism-history/

The information in this blog post is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the guidance of your doctor or other qualified health professional with any questions you may have regarding your health or a medical condition.

Pomegranate Day (A Meditation)

By Amber, CN Supplements Buyer & Pom Enthusiast

In my household, there exists a holiday found nowhere else in the world. A very simple holiday, to be sure, but a holiday nonetheless. I call it Pomegranate Day, and I've celebrated it once a year for about a decade now. 

The gist of Pomegranate Day is this: it is the first day in autumn when I find pomegranates in the grocery store. Because they have such a short time they're in season, that means Pomegranate Day can happen any time in September or early October. 

It's a plain enough celebration. The first day I get a pomegranate for the season, I take it home and clear a space on the kitchen table. I lay out a bowl and rag and put on a shirt I don't mind staining. I light a nice candle, turn off my phone, and put away any potential distractions. And then, for the next hour or so, I dedicate my entire self to the consumption of my pomegranate. I focus on the sensory aspects: the soft tearing of the thick dusky-pink rind, the split of the seam as it parts to reveal the wet red jewels of arils within. I press the arils to the roof of my mouth with my tongue until they pop in a tangy burst, then crunch the seeds between my molars. I let my hands get stained until juice runs down my wrists; my fingertips will wear the yellow memories for days after. I get messy. I slurp, I crunch. I devote my body to the miracle of the heavy fruit. 

And with it, I give thanks for the brief bliss of pomegranate season. I remind myself how wonderful it is to have these fruits, if only for a few months out of the year. I consider how I'm not meant to have everything I want all the time: a pomegranate in June is just not the same as a pomegranate in November, and the fruit is all the sweeter for being so fleeting. 

I recently celebrated this year's Pomegranate Day, and it was one of the most wonderful yet. The fruit the size of both my fists, the seeds like glowing embers. There will be other pomegranates this year, to be sure, but none hold the pure animal joy of the season's first. 

May your pomegranates be glorious, and your gratitude boundless. 

My Month of Josh Rosebrook

By Dev, CN Manager + Skincare Connoisseur

A compliment we frequently get at Cambridge Naturals is that there’s always something exciting and new waiting for customers on our shelves. In a general sense, I would say that every industry puts a lot of energy behind building expectations for the hot new thing that everyone simply must have. 

One downside of this tendency in our wider culture is that - in all the hustle and bustle of identifying new up-and-coming brands and fun products - it’s easy to overlook the accomplishments of truly foundational, innovative brands. Brands with products that opened industry doors and delighted consumers in unexpected ways, setting up new possibilities and standards in skincare from which those new up-and-comers work.

One such brand, and the focus of this specific post, is Josh Rosebrook. 

Josh Rosebrook introduced his skincare line to the general public in 2009, with a focus on high quality botanical and biomimetic ingredients. (Within the realm of skincare, biomimetic refers to ingredients that “mimic” the natural compounds produced in the human body. These aid in the absorption and maintenance of our skin’s natural pH range. A great example of this is botanical hyaluronic acid, which is highly similar to the same hyaluronic acid our bodies produce in our joints, eyes, etc.) Josh and his team have truly put in the work to produce skincare products that are founded in research-driven cosmetic science.

After an informative brand training, I was recently given the generous opportunity to try a sequence of their face care line, from cleanser to face balm. As a fun challenge to myself (and as a way to really test the renowned excellence of their products,) I decided to use nothing but Josh Rosebrook face care products as part of my daily routine for at least a month. Which I did this July!

(Important note: I didn’t stop after a month! You probably won’t want to, either.)  

Here’s a more specific run-down of the products I was gifted, all of which have unique formulas and strengths on their own, but make botanical and biomimetic magic together. 

1. Complete Moisture Cleanse Gel: one thing I appreciate about JR’s skincare line is that you can easily tell from the scents alone that they utilize high quality botanicals in their products. No cloying fragrances at all. Their cleanse gel is pleasantly mild and a great choice for anyone with sensitive or reactive skin. It leaves my skin feeling smooth but not stripped of necessary moisture. 

2. Daily Acid Toner: time to tone! JR’s acid toner is a powerhouse of actives, including citric, malic, glycolic, and pyruvic acids. It’s a great exfoliator and the addition of aloe means that it isn’t too drying, and will leave your skin happy and pH-balanced. 

3. Active Infusion Facial Oil: a great moisturizer on its own, for all skin types. It contains a uniquely gentle retinoic acid ester that provides the antioxidant and age support benefits people are seeking in retinols, but without the associated high level of sensitivity afterwards. Feels light and amazing underneath the next one on our list…

4. Vital Balm Cream: the true darkhorse of this experiment! I didn’t go in expecting to love this specific product so much, but I’m afraid this is one I won’t be giving up anytime soon. It has a delightful whipped, sponge-like texture and a fantastic scent. It melts into your skin and absorbs quickly, leaving you feeling plump and glowy for hours afterwards. 

The following two products are ones I already owned and, of course, already swore by:

1. Nutrient Day Cream SPF 30: Particularly in the hot summer months, a good SPF is indispensable. Josh Rosebrook’s SPF day cream is light, goes on smoothly, and is additionally a great base for any cosmetics you might want to follow with. They also have produced a tinted formula to cut down on the milky cast for those with darker skin tones.

2. Advanced Hydration Face Mask: Not a daily product for me, but could be for you! A great staple to have for times when a little extra moisture is needed, or when skin is particularly dull or lackluster. Great for use overnight if you want to wake up with deliciously plump skin. I would say that all of JR’s products are extremely clean and mildly pleasant smelling, but the Advanced Hydration mask is a stand-out in this category with a beautiful color to match. 

After a month, I would say that I noticed some specific changes in my skin that I was happy to see. “Plump” is the one word I would lean on the most; my skin was very hydrated and dewy, even after a full workday. I received a lot of compliments on how soft it both looked and felt to the touch, which was definitely downstream of how gently resurfacing and balance-focused their skincare line is. 

It’s a brand I would highly recommend to those with reactive and sensitive skin in particular, as so many of their products are geared towards retaining moisture and keeping the facial skin balanced. I always wake up and look forward to the simple ritual of my face care routine, and the added enjoyment of getting to experiment with just a single, powerful line of products is one I’d be more than willing to try again! 

Additionally, this past month we did a fun mini-facial event with Josh Rosebrook, as well! Keep an eye on our social media and newsletter for similar opportunities in the future.

Dev's Yuzu Kava Relaxer 🍹

By Dev F, CN Manager + Fizzy Beverage Connoisseur

Fizzy and functional, together at last!  

I’m always interested in casual ways to make our favorite food and drinks go even further for us and our bodies… beyond just tasting good, of course. Last year was big for what we might call ‘fizzy and functional’ drinks - I was thrilled by the refreshing and delicious simplicity of Mountain Rose Herbs’ own Functional Fizzes from their blog last summer, and most of us active on social media of any kind at least know of the existence of the viral “Sleepy Girl Mocktail,” which emerged on TikTok in 2023. 

(For those who missed out on the phenomenon, it’s a calming and tasty combination of magnesium powder, tart cherry juice, and lemon-lime soda/seltzer meant to be used as a tasty sleep support beverage.)

Naturally - with so many cool sodas, seltzers, and herbal extracts on our shelves–it made sense to try my hand at one! 

First up, my own stress and sleep support mocktail: A blend of tart yuzu and bittersweet kava kava, with a fragrant note of lavender. Kava is known for its sleep supportive properties, so this is a great one to sip on a balmy summer evening while you’re winding down and ready to fall into the sweet embrace of slumber…

Ingredients:

• Sanzo’s Yuzu Ginger Sparkling Water as the base.

• 15 drops of Cambridge Naturals’ Lavender tincture (exactly one half dose, but a full dose may be used for desired potency)

• 15 drops of Cambridge Naturals’ Kava tincture (“””)

• ½ oz Portland Syrup Co’s Lavender concentrate  

• ½ oz Portland Syrup Co’s Yuzu concentrate (you can buy these two in the same sampler syrup trio!) 

• Ice! 

Prep is very easy and fast, and the ingredients can be modified to suit your own taste. I mixed the lavender and kava extracts together in a glass with both Portland syrups, added ice, and then poured Sanzo’s yuzu sparkling water over the top. Just stir slightly and you’re ready to go! 

(Or stay! Possibly in bed, or another comfy spot.)

Staying Hydrated (Even If You Hate It)

By Amber S, CN Education Specialist, Buyer, & H20 Enthusiast

Tuesday morning, early: my phone buzzes with a warning, a red triangle with an exclamation point. Our area is now under a Heat Advisory, though I don't really need a weather alert to know it. It's hot. The air above the pavement shimmers. Boxy air conditioners sprout from apartment windows like strange fungi. Glassy-eyed birds sway on power lines. Even the wild rabbits stretch out in the shade, mouths hanging open in the heat. Yes, I think, definitely time to up the ol' water intake. 

I have always been a person who likes to stay hydrated - indeed, when I forget about everything else, I remember my water bottle. It's come as a surprise to me that drinking enough water isn't easy for everyone, though. And yet it's crucial, especially in the summer, to stay hydrated. Here are some tips for staying hydrated - even if you hate it. 

Flavor your fill. I am one of those people who really likes the taste of water. Mineral water, fizzy water, water straight from the tap - I love it all. But if you happen to not, try flavoring your water. A couple of leaves of mint, a slice or two of lemon or lime, or even some mineral drops can improve the flavor of your water. Experiment to figure out what motivates you, and don't be afraid to experiment -- my water yesterday had a few leaves of fresh basil a friend had given me from their garden, and it was unexpectedly delicious! 

Add electrolytes. In the summer especially, your body loses electrolytes like sodium, potassium, and magnesium through sweating. Electrolyte powders are a great way to both replenish lost minerals as well as add some flavor to your water. 

Personalize your water bottle. At Cambridge Naturals, we're huge geeks about our water bottles. Everyone's got their own, and you can usually tell who's bottle belongs to who by the array of colorful stickers we like to decorate them with. (My own bottle has pigeons, moths, and cats -- some of my favorite animals.) It might sound kind of silly, but a water bottle can be a statement of personality. Whether your taste runs to self-care mantras, activist statements, cute animals, or elegant flowers, decorating your water bottle can make a huge impact on how much you actually use it. 

Make it accessible. I'm one of those people who keeps a water bottle everywhere: there's one by my bed, one at work, one in the kitchen, and one attached to my backpack. Simply by always having a water bottle with me, I'm reminded of the importance of drinking water. 

Set reminders. If you struggle to remember to drink enough water, there are some excellent phone apps out there that can remind you. The more advanced ones even let you track your hydration over time and set goals to improve your daily wellness. You can also check in with your friends, family, and co-workers to cheer on each others' hydration goals - Caleb, our co-owner at Cambridge Naturals, is famous for championing us to stay hydrated!

Be aware of secret dehydrators. A lot of things can cause your body to lose water. Diuretic substances like caffeine and alcohol increase urination, and hot weather causes your body to lose water through sweating. And while drinks like seltzer, soda, and juice provide some hydration, they're also more likely to add extra sugar to your diet. 

Know your body. People of certain age groups such as children and older adults tend to naturally be more prone to dehydration. Some medical conditions, especially those affecting the bladder, kidneys, and gastrointestinal systems, impact how much water your body is able to absorb. And some medications can also impact how your body processes fluids. Learning about your body's own unique needs will help you maintain your optimum hydration level. 

Make it a habit. Did you know that your body loses water while you sleep? The relationship between hydration and sleep is a complicated one, but studies have shown that dehydration can negatively impact the quality and duration of your sleep. To restore water lost during the night, have a glass of water first thing in the morning. If you've got pills or supplements to take, that's a great thing to pair it with. 

Lastly, while staying hydrated is important, remember to take care of yourself in other ways, too. Familiarize yourself with the symptoms of heat exhaustion. Check up on children, elderly friends / family, and anyone else who lives alone. Make sure your pets have access to plenty of water, too. And if you can't find a place to stay out of the heat, check out this list of community cooling centers across Boston. 

Summer can be a fun time -- make sure you're properly hydrated enough to enjoy it!

Sources: 

https://www.sleepfoundation.org/nutrition/hydration-and-sleep

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/dehydration/symptoms-causes/syc-20354086

Staff Picks: SUMMERTIME Edition ☀️

Sharing our favorite products for this vibrant season of sunshine, picnics, beach days, ice cream, and so much more!

Rose

Ursa Major Spray Deodorant - Sublime Sage

I might lose my Cambridge Naturals employee card (not a real card, a hypothetical one) when I say this, but I have not made the switch to natural deodorant. However, I love this Ursa Major deodorant for when I'm on the go and feel the need to freshen up. It has a lovely smell that isn't overwhelming, which is good for folks that are sensitive to strong scents. In addition to the brightness from the sage, there are other nice additions like lavender, sandalwood, lemon myrtle, and frankincense. Perhaps someday I'll officially make the switch to natural deodorant, but for now I will keep my Sublime Sage in my bag and spray away when the mood (or smell) strikes!

Amber

Ethique Curliosity Co-Wash Bar

I discovered this product at EXPO West 2024, and it was a total game-changer for me. I'm the only person in my family with curly hair, so learning how to take care of it has been a journey! Co-washing, which is basically using a super-moisturizing conditioner to wash your hair, has done wonders for me. My curls are voluminous but defined, and they've never been softer. One Ethique co-wash bar lasts for 100+ uses, and there's no plastic packaging -- perfect for curly folks who want to reduce waste while having excellent hair. Bonus: it smells like lemongrass, one of my favorite summery scents! 

Mike

Casamara Club - Sera

It's Saturday night. I'm finishing my shift here, and I need something refreshing to kick off my weekend. This can right here glares at me from the cooler, knowing that I need it. What do I do?

I practically drown myself in this allspice/anise wonder, with notes of grapefruit that I so dearly love. Something about it calms both my stomach and my mind. With summer begging to take over, I can finally enjoy this with the windows open. The perfect little treat!

Victoria

Ere Perez Quandong Green Booster Facial Serum

Moisturizers and oils feel way to heavy for my face, so I'm super happy to have found this green booster serum that feels light on my face; goes on smoothly without me feeling like I am stretching my skin, and adds a tiny bit of moisture. It's packed with tons of antioxidants and this special Australian plant called Quandong - an amazing source of Vitamin C! Ask us for a sample to take home and try!

Zach

Aya's Tasty AF Green Garlic Oil

Garlic lovers rejoice and flavor fiends unite!   Aya's Tasty AF has heeded your call for zing with their wildly delicious Green Garlic Oil.  A mouthwatering amount of garlic meets parsley, coriander, Jalapenos, salt, and vinegar in this must try condiment.  I've already used this on just about everything - mixed in cream cheese for bagels, in marinades for vegetables, in salad dressing, and more.

Alexandra

Mountain Rose Herbs Calendula Hydrosol

Now that it's getting warmer out, all I want to do is be in the sun. Unfortunately, the hours of sunbathing can have consequences, as I often find myself with a bit of a sunburn. It's because of this, a staple of my summer skincare is the calendula hydrosol from mountain rose herbs. It's so soothing and healing! It always cools down the heat of my sunburn. I'll throw it into my bag when heading to the beach to use as a refresher throughout the day as well.

Dev

Bobo's Coconut Oat Bar

Dense, filling, tasty, and convenient....what more do you need in a breakfast or snack bar? I've recently gotten into Bobo's Oat Bars and it's truly the perfect time of year for them. I'm regularly fueled by them for breakfast, but they would also be a perfect companion on a hike or other outdoors excursion. Coconut is simply the perfect summer flavor, but there are other Bobo's bars to satisfy any palate!

Julia

Badger SPF 30 Mineral Sunscreen

As someone who has sensitive skin, does not respond well to fragrances, prefers products with the fewest ingredients possible, likes to feel protected from sunburns, and has been looking for an non-chemical sheer sunscreen, Badger's new edible formula works super well for me. Although Badger offers a facial sunscreen with the same formula, I use the regular one on my face and am happy with the results. With just zinc oxide, coconut oil, sunflower wax, and sunflower vitamin E...Badger's new mineral sunscreen blends in immediately and my skin feels soft and protected. 

Caleb

Ursa Major Fortifying Gel Moisturizer

This lightweight moisturizer is perfect for summer. While deeply soothing, it is not oily so you can move and sweat with ease. And, the cooling aloe vera feels oh so good after a day in the sun. Pairs well with Ursa Major's Face Tonic for extra soothing hydration and their Daily Defense Lotion for all day weightless UV protection. 

Brenden

Badger SPF 50 Adventure Mineral Sunscreen

Summer in the city means you need sunscreen in your bag at all times.  I go for the Badger SPF 50 Adventure Mineral Sunscreen with Clear Zinc. When using this you get great lasting protection, but never forgot to reapply often!  The best part about this product is the clear zinc, which leaves minimal to no white cast on the skin.  Come in to our stores, pick it up and have a great summer!

Bianca

Parch Non-Alcoholic Prickly Pear Paloma Mocktail

The paloma is the chic and sophisticated sister of the margarita. It's citrusy, bitter- sweet, and extremely refreshing on a hot summer evening. I like mine in a chilled glass with a salt or tajin rim. The addition of adaptogens like ginseng and ashwagandha leave me feeling calm and excited for what's to come next. 

Sally

Derin International - Turkish Classic Towel

These 100% Premium Turkish Cotton towels are so absorbent and lightweight. Very easy to stash in a beach bag for the summer, outing  or use as a spontaneous picnic blanket.
They measure 78" x 38" making them large enough for bath, spa or gym use as well. There are a variety of vibrant fun colors available and a smaller size is also an option.  

Ellie

Little Seed Farm Deodorant Cream - Blue Tansy Rose

I've been a cream deodorant skeptic, and I'm used to finding that I need to reapply natural deodorant if I want it to last, so I've been pleasantly surprised by how well this lovely cream deodorant from Little Seed Farm holds up through the end of the day even in the humid summer months. One of the newer scents, Blue Tansy Rose, is my personal favorite, but you really can't go wrong with their selection. 

Daisy

Mad Hippie Luminizing Facial SPF 29

We carry several lovely sunscreens ranging in texture, strength, and application (cream, balm, or stick) but I always return to Mad Hippie's Luminizing SPF. As the name implies, this 29+ UVA/UVB sunscreen has a shimmery finish which I love any day and especially those days when I want my skin to be extra glowy. It also has several wonderful skincare ingredients like Squalane and Niacinamide to nourish your skin during continued use all summer long!

Shannon

Roar Organic Cucumber Watermelon

I tried this drink for the first time last summer when the CN crew spent the day at Muddy River Herbals farm and have been a fan ever since! Filled with electrolytes, this is one of my favorite go-to drinks after a long, hot summer day!

Sarah

Botanica Outdoor Candles

Move over citronella there's a new party in town!  I love sitting outside but absolutely hate citronella.  These candles are the perfect solution.  Who knew outdoor candles could be so luxurious?  Made with soy wax and mosquito repellent essential oils, these candles not only say bye bye to pesky bugs but smell AMAZING.  They can also be used as indoor candles.  Best of all, when the candle is finished you can reuse the ceramic vessel as a planter.

Allison

Alden's Organic Ice Cream Sandwiches

Ice cream all year long, but I splurge on these ice cream sandwiches in the summer months. The ice cream is rich and smooth - the perfect match for the soft chocolatey cookie. Need I say more?!

Emily

Mount Lai Cloudberry Dew Gel Eye Mask

Summertime is when I want to feel my most vibrant and fresh-looking (harder to go goblin-mode under piles of sweaters as in wintertime), but it's often challenging to get a good night's sleep on those stuffy, sweltering summer nights! So I rely on a few tricks to help soothe my puffy morning eyes - first: hydration, second: jade roller, and third: these amazing gel eye masks from Mount Lai! They contain cloudberry (a vitamin c + antioxidant rich super fruit), irish moss, peptides (known as a building block of collagen) and hyaluronic acid. I've never looked *less* tired after a night of tossing and turning! And luckily, a beautiful summer's day awaits.

A Midsummer Day's Sun Tea

By: Laura Scarpellini, Lifestyle Buyer, Merchandiser and lover of mundane magic

With the Summer solstice coming up next week (June 20th), It seems to be the perfect time to soak up the season’s rays in a delicious sun-steeped tea! Midsummer celebrations historically celebrate the sun through bonfires, dancing, and merriment. While I may not have the yard space for dancing about a bonfire in Boston, I will simply have to make do! By listening to early 2000s pop in my porch garden with a mason jar of iced tea, and curling up to A Midsummer Night’s Dream (1999) at dusk of course.

For your own Midsummer celebration:

A large 32-64 oz jar makes a wonderful batch for sharing, but if your solstice plan is a party of one, a standard 12-16 oz mason jar will work too. You can use approximately 1 tsp of your tea of choice per 8oz of water. Place the jar in direct sunlight for 1-2 hours, checking on it periodically to give it a little shake! 

The options are endless, but a beloved pick is hibiscus flowers for their vibrant red-purple steep. Delicate plant parts, like leaves and flowers will do best with this method since roots, barks and seeds tend to need a little more heat, time and agitation to extract medicinal properties. But that being said, you could probably still get a delicious and mucilage rich result if working with marshmallow root! It doesn’t have to be an herbal tea either, Camellia Sinensis (the plant species that is responsible for white tea, yellow tea, green tea, oolong, dark tea and black tea) will steep just fine too. Here is my own midsummer sun tea recipe if you are in need of inspiration:

Red Raspberry Leaf

Hibiscus Flower

Rose Hips

Mullein Leaf

Orange slices

Add ice cubes and honey or sugar to taste! Sip and take in the sunlight of the year’s longest day…

Eat your heart out, Charlie Bucket!

By Amber S, Supplements Buyer & Chocolate Enthusiast

In an unassuming-looking yellow barn on a quiet suburban street in Sudbury, Massachusetts, there is a chocolate factory. 

You wouldn't think it to look at the place: a pond dotted with water lilies, barn swallows darting about the eaves -- but through the sliding door, beyond barrels of carefully-marked beans, up a flight of stairs to a bright and airy room that hums with machinery and smells vaguely of honey and damp earth, there is the wondrous Goodnow Farms, one of the most award-winning chocolate-makers in the United States. 

It is to Goodnow Farms that my colleagues and I have traveled from our store in Cambridge to witness the magic of chocolate-making from Goodnow's owners themselves. Tom and Monica founded the company with the goal of making the highest-quality single-origin chocolate. What does that mean, exactly? Well, cacao beans, I learned, have different flavor profiles depending on the bean variety and the region they're grown in. Much like tea or wine grapes, the terroir of cacao beans imparts a unique flavor. Most commercially-available chocolate sources their cacao beans from many different places, some as far apart as Africa and South America, and then cover the muddled flavors with lots of sugar and deodorized cacao butter. The result is sweet and delicious, but lacking in the deep complexity of single-origin chocolate. 

Chocolate isn't just candy, says Tom -- it's a food. Goodnow's cacao beans come from a selection of farms in Mexico, Central America, and South America, and Tom travels there frequently to check in with the crops. Once the beans are picked, fermented, and dried, they're shipped to Massachusetts where the next part of their adventure occurs. 

In the light-filled upstairs space, the cacao beans are gently roasted, then the hulls removed and separated. (The resulting hulls make excellent compost for local farms.) At this stage, the pencil-eraser-sized pieces of bean become recognizable as cacao nibs. Then the beans are ground slowly over a period of days, a processed we witnessed in several different stages. Cacao is a bit like peanut butter, Tom tells us: when you grind the beans, they release their oils and fats. At first, the paste is thick, dark, and grainy, and intensely flavored -- our team tasted notes as varied as blue cheese, raisins, and bell peppers in different cacao varieties. And it isn't sweet, necessarily, nor is it savory - it has a pungent, tannic fruitiness that seems to defy classification. 

Once the beans are ground, they're flavored and sweetened, a process which has to be adjusted for each variety. Some of Goodnow's flavors include Caramelized Onion (using onions from Wolfe Farms in New York, a flavor which sounds contradictory but left our entire team open-mouthed in awe of how well it worked) and Putnam Rye Whiskey (which soaks the cacao beans in whiskey from Boston Harbor Distillery, and to me tasted of winter mornings and made my mouth tingle agreeably). Goodnow cares passionately about the sourcing of their ingredients, using local products whenever possible (their Spiced Apple Cider chocolate uses apples from their very own trees)! 

After the chocolate is conched to the proper consistency, it's tempered - a process that uses strategic heating and cooling to produce consistently-sized fat molecules, which improves the smoothness and texture of the bar. (People unnecessarily demonize fat, chimes in Monica, but fat is flavor.) Then it's poured into molds, chilled, unmolded, and packaged in Goodnow's signature shiny gold wrappers. 

The whole experience was incredible - Tom and Monica are clearly passionate about their craft, and it shows in the exceptional quality of their products. I personally had never been that much a fan of dark chocolate, citing a lifelong aversion to bitter foods (I still think arugula is a joke the rest of the world is playing on me), but our trip to Goodnow showed me that dark chocolate - good dark chocolate--isn't defined by bitterness alone. The complexity of single-origin chocolates incorporates a true sense of character and place, and single-origin chocolates are as diverse as the nations in which the cacao beans are grown. Goodnow's integrity and commitment to producing high-quality chocolate, combined with the slightly madcap whimsy of some of their flavor choices, produce on the whole an utterly unforgettable experience. 

Being a kid in a chocolate factory must be fun. But, I'm beginning to realize, being an adult may actually be more fun.

Eat your heart out, Charlie Bucket. 

Survive and Thrive at Boston Calling

By Amber, Supplements Buyer & Live Music Enthusiast

Every year in late May, crowds descend upon the Harvard Coliseum for one of the biggest outdoor music festivals in New England. Sure, Boston Calling may not have the celebrity clout of Coachella or the cool-kid reputation of Bonnaroo, but you have to admit there's something kind of awesome about finally having a music fest of our very own. Whether you're a newbie to the world of Boston Calling or a frequent fest-goer, here's some important things to consider when hitting the field. 

Sunscreen is your best friend. Even if you're darker-skinned, staying vigilant with your sun protection is important. To avoid getting your sunscreen confiscated by security, opt for a small non-aerosol tube, like this one from Babo. And don't forget your eyes. I always bring a pair of sunglasses with me to outdoor shows (usually cheap ones, that way I'm not too bummed out if I lose them). 

Stay hydrated! Be sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day. (Boston Calling lets you bring in your own empty water bottle to refill at their Hydration Stations.) Adding some prepackaged electrolyte powders (like these from Superieur) to your water can help you replace the minerals you lose through sweating. 

Protect your hearing. Music festivals can get loud. A couple of years ago I caught Nine Inch Nails' incredible Boston Calling set -- from my apartment balcony a mile away. A pair of heavy-duty earplugs can protect you from total decibel decimation. 

A rather candid bit of advice from my own experience being a frequent concert attendee: If you're a festival-goer who menstruates, a menstrual cup like this one from VIV will save you the trouble of lugging around handfuls of tampons. (And you won't have to figure out where to dispose of your trash afterwards, either!) Menstrual cups are a simple switch that will make your fest-going experience so much easier. 

Other important things to remember: Wear comfortable shoes -- especially if you're going to be dancing a lot. (And as cute as your new Doc Martens are, now is probably not the best time to wear them for the first time.) Carry a Sharpie so you can write down your contact information in case of an emergency -- or in case you spot that incredible bassist whose autograph you want.

A bandanna is also a good thing to keep around -- it can tie your hair back, keep sweat out of your eyes, or even serve as a clean ground cover in a pinch. Figure out public transit beforehand, especially if you're coming in from afar. Try to be respectful of the locals, as Boston Calling takes place in a mostly residential area of the city. And above all else, be kind to each other and to your bodies. 

Are you checking out any of the acts at Boston Calling this year? (The CN Team is especially stoked for locals Paper Lady!)

Skincare on the go!

Eager to get into a skincare routine but intimidated by the sheer number of products and potential steps? Have a 7-step skincare regimen but not enough time to get around to everything? Are you a student rushing between classes in the AM, a new parent with zero free time and somehow even fewer hours of sleep, or just frequently on the move?

If any of those describe you, you’ve recently been in our thoughts! We live in a complex and demanding world, so a few of us put our heads together to recommend some simple but effective skincare products for those short on time…

Emily:

When crunched for time, I rely on my vital trio of:

Note: all HGW is on sale 15% off in May 2024!

1. Start with: Apis Apotheca Barrier Function Optimizer (Toner) OR Heart Grown Wild Seasonal Hydrosol [note: all HGW is on sale 15% off in May 2024!]. Toners and hydrosols provide essential hydration for parched skin, and literally set the skin up to better absorb and retain moisture (try putting oil on dry skin vs. damp skin and you'll feel the difference!). A few sprays and I'm ready for action!

2. Next up is a serum, either Ursa Major's Vitamin C Serum OR Cocokind's Ceramide Barrier Serum (if I'm feeling fancy and luxuriating in time, both). The Vitamin C Serum helps to add hydration and balance and soothe my sometimes-irritable skin. The Ceramide Barrier Serum smooths and hydrates, keeps my skin looking fresh and nourished even on the driest of days.

3. And last but definitely not least, day cream! Once the serum has settled in a bit (but not fully dry) I apply a day cream to lock in that hydration and keep my skin feeling fully moisturized and protected all day long. Either Ursa Major's Golden Hour Recovery Cream OR Evanhealy's Blue Chamomile Day Cream. In the spring/summertime, I'll opt for an SPF day cream instead - either Ursa Major's Force Field SPF OR Cocokind’s Daily SPF.

Amber:

Aura Cacia's Sweet Almond Oil is my favorite makeup remover. Seriously, this stuff has tackled my makeup from a Distillers show as well as from Cambridge's infamous XMORTIS Goth Nights (IYKYK). It can remove makeup that took hours to apply in mere minutes, which is super-useful if you're a Goth On The Go. ;)

Dev:

Emily briefly mentioned it already, but Heart Grown Wild's Veil of Love Cleanser + Serum & Prism of the Sun Hydrosol make a wonderful and nourishing duo with no compromise whatsoever on quality.

Oil cleansers are a gentle way to flush out impurities and revitalize your skin, especially if you regularly use cosmetics. The addition of their hydrosol after an oil cleanse will support your skin with botanical nutrients and aid in both serum absorption and pH balancing. Once you've cleansed your skin, spray a light mist of Prism of the Sun over your face, and immediately follow with a layer of Veil of Love again! 

Gently massage into your skin to support absorption and lymphatic drainage, and you're out the door. This approach isn't just great as a time-saver, it can also support sensitive and reactive skin types - if you need a cooling alternative to Veil of Love, Heart Grown Wild's Azul is also a great serum choice. So if you're prone to break-outs but have all the time in the world to get ready, it's still a simple and fantastic routine!

(Really don’t have time for anything at all? Ursa Major’s 4-in-1 Essential Face Wipes are great if you’re in a rush, or just for a refreshing pick-me-up during the course of your day. I always keep some in my bag just in case.) 

Vicki:

Mountain Rose Herbs Witch Hazel infused with herbs!

This requires time beforehand - but once made it's easy to use - you infuse herbs in witch hazel for 2 weeks to a month and use it as a face toner - I use it morning and evening to wash my face with a cotton ball. (Looking for a more sustainable alternative to a cotton ball? Try the Reusable Cotton Rounds from Brooklyn Made or the Reusable Rounds from Last Object) 

I know witch hazel can be drying, so I often put linden or elderflower in there and that makes it moisturizing! My favorite go-to herbs to infuse in witch hazel are rosemary, thyme, linden, rose, elderflower, and whatever else I have on hand that I know will work! 

Shannon:

SPF is an essential skin care step that is often skipped because of inconvenience. I personally hate the feeling of thick, oily SPF on my face and spent many years just avoiding it altogether. One of my favorite products, especially in the summer, is Mad Hippie Daily Protective SPF. It's a light Mineral 30 SPF serum that blends in with no white cast, absorbs fast and is especially perfect for reapplication on the go!

There are also tinted formulas in Light/Medium and Medium/Dark for anyone looking for light coverage with SPF! 

Pro tip: try keeping it in the fridge on warm days!