Staff Picks: Spring Forward Edition!

Rose

Sanzo Lychee Sparkling Water

I am picky about sparkling water and have very strong opinions about what constitutes appropriate flavors for sparkling water. That's why I was pleased to find this lychee sparkling water from Sanzo. Lychee is so delicious and I'm always happy to find things that are lychee flavored that don't taste fake or artificial. This sparkling water is refreshing, tastes great, and is the perfect thing to sip as we get into warmer weather. Give it a try!

Amber

Duckhead Umbrella in Royal Blue

I'm not a huge fan of rain, and spring is full of it. But those wet spring days will be a lot more cheerful with this whimsical Duckhead umbrella. It's sure to bring a smile to someone else's face--and your own face!

Gabi D

Little Seed Farm Deodorant Cream - Cedar Vanilla

For years I was resistant to going to healthy route for deodorants. I am a sweaty human, very sweaty. I made a commitment to get away from  antiperspirant when I started working at Cambridge Naturals over a year ago. Going into warmer months, it is essential for me to have a really good deodorant for those sweaty days. After a year of trying all of our underarm products, I have fallen in love with Little Seed Farm's Deodorant. It reduces the moisture. The scents are subtle and fresh. ALSO it comes in a glass container (NO PLASTIC). Another perk is we now have it in our bulk section and I can refill the jar it originally came in! Highly Recommend!

Liz

Calendula Flower (Local, Organic)

Picking fresh calendula flowers in my garden is still a few months away, but I am ready for spring (and summer) flowers now! Our bulk dried calendula flowers come from Foster Farm Botanicals, a beautiful herb farm in VT I've had the pleasure of visiting, and their dried calendula flowers are so vibrant. I use calendula to make salve for dry skin or lymphatic massage, I've made calendula tincture as part of an herbal mouth wash, and I put it in tea blends all the time for tummy tissue support and because the orange petals are just gorgeous. It truly is sunshine in a cup!

Sally

Fresh Wave Odor Removing Laundry Booster

For deep fresh Spring Cleaning use a capful of this plant based, natural ingredient odor remover to spruce up and refresh all your laundry! After having all my windows closed all Winter and various cooking / living odors lingering among my curtains, clothing, towels and bedding, i'm ready to wash Winter right out of my house. This product is Non-GMO and non-hazardous for people, pets and the planet.

Alina

ʻŌlena Beauty Oil by Honua

I believe Honua has formulated the most perfect, well balanced winter/spring transition face serum! ʻŌlena (Hawaiian turmeric) and noni fruit help fight inflammation and heal dry skin we are all too familiar with thanks to the harsh and unpredictable New England winters behind us. This plant-based oil isn't greasy but leaves your skin with a subtle, natural glow which is the energy we are claiming this spring 🌺✨

Emily

Fresh Watermelon Electrolytes by Superieur

Spring is the season where I watch all of those incredible people training for the Boston Marathon and think "I could do that" despite never having run more than five miles in my life. But truly, walking is my jam, and I was recently inspired by post by a local writer to try to walk at least the distance of a marathon (26.2 miles) in a single day. Rest, stretching and hydration is critical for any long distance endeavor - so I'm stocking up on my favorite Fresh Watermelon Electrolytes from local company Superieur (made with clean ingredients and minerals). I add a healthy scoop to my CN branded water bottle, and off I go!

Zach

Petite Pot - Organic Vanilla Dessert

So hear me out - I know that Organic pudding doesn't cream 'Springtime!', but let me tell you - this stuff is so tasty, so satisfying, so wonderful - you'll be taken straight to the French Riviera on a cool spring evening. Ok... so maybe you won't actually be transported there but you can dream right?  All jokes aside, all of the Petite Pot varieties are incredibly delicious and I can't recommend them enough.

Brenden

Beekeeper's Naturals - Nasal Spray w/ Propolis

It's been since my age was at single digits that I used a nasal spray to comabt seasonal allergies. While all of the steroidal shots into my nasal passages have had their purpose and time, as an adult I have grown frustrated by the uncomfortable feeling that said sprays present in my body. Post nasal drip being the worst of them all. On my journey as a Spraymmelier I discovered this fantastic product. I can't say enough about the minimal and noteable ingredients of Propolis and Xylitol. Propolis may support your immune system, and soothe a scratchy throat and Xylitol may help the flow of mucus.  This is your time to give it a spray and relax on a sunny day!

Sofia

Triloka Insence - Ayurvedic Chakra Assorted

It's the time to align those chakras! Shake off that winter energy and embrace the Spring! It is a time of growth, beauty, and life and I am thrilled to finally throw my windows open and breathe that crisp fresh air. This assorted pack is perfect because I can decide each day which chakra to focus on. So many great scents in one little package! 

Caleb

Alec's Ice Cream - Tahitian Vanilla Bean made with Organic, Regeneratively Farmed A2 Milk

Regeneratively farmed cows? Easy on your stomach Organic A2 milk? Three delicious flavors? I'm selective with the dairy I consume so I was super excited to try Alec's Ice Cream and I can enthusiastically say it does not disappoint! 

Molly

Baggu Socks - Ecru Cherry

I love Baggu and I love fun socks! I like anything fruit themed and the socks bring back the cherry print that was everywhere in my middle school days, but in a very cool modern way. I'm always drawn to a pop of color and red is really calling to me these days, so I've been incorporating it into into my wardrobe whereever I can. Plus these are the perfect spring socks: not too heavy and made of a soft comfy bamboo rayon. I'm so ready for warmer weather and putting away my heavy wool.  I had to have 'em! 

Shannon

Baby Baggu - Lemon Tree

Before Cambridge Naturals, I was a bagger at a grocery store for 3 years. Something I realized is it is lot easier for me to use several smaller bags rather than one large bag! Large bags don't always distribute the weight evenly and tend to be more uncomfortable for me to carry. I think the baby baggu's are the perfect size and I love tossing them in my purse before I go out just in case. The Lemon Tree one is so cute and perfect for spring!

Aria

Cruet Mini Pitcher (11oz)

I'm loving these whimsy little jars! So perfect for adding a lil magic to your home. Great for any witches looking to bring in the spring with some new spell jars. Wishing all my witchy babes balance and renewal this spring! 

Vicki

Host Defense MycoBotanicals Liver Support Blend

This is the time to cleanse your body of all the wonderful/delicious heavy eating most of us do during the colder months. There are many ways to cleanse, and we like the most gentle approaches. This blend of mushrooms + herbs supports your body in its natural cleansing process. I started taking this a couple of months ago, due to breaking out on my face, which is a sign that your body isn't able to process some thing too well. I have been seeing the difference in my face (slight for now, will be taking it for a couple of months, natural remedies often take a long time to work! don't get discouraged). My digestion is also doing a lot better! 

Sarah

Octavia Morgan - Dark Rose

There's nothing better than a light spring fragrance.  I find it so hard to find a floral done right, but Octavia Morgan has nailed it!  Subtle, long lasting, not overpowering.  I get so many compliments on this perfume everytime I wear it.  (Not a fan of Rose?  They have three other scents in their fragrance line and we have all of them!)

Nora

David Winston's Herbalist & Alchemist - Original Bitters

As the soil starts to wake up and shoots start to pop out of the earth in the warming months, bitter herbs and plants are abundant and ready to stimulate the wintering digestive system and herald the new season. This lovely blend of bitter superstars like dandelion root, gentian root, artichoke leaf, and angelica root (with orange peel and peppermint for extra digestive love) can help to get the juices flowing when they're feeling stagnant. I personally love bitters for when I'm feeling bloated and fatigued - they help me to dissipate those feelings of stuckness and heaviness. Perfect for springtime!

Gabi C

Death Valley Nail Polish - Dust to Dust, Hibiscus Flower + Beet Root

The most beautiful addition to my nails that I never knew I needed! It's a super delicate and pretty top coat to add onto their other color called "Becker's White", or just by itself! Just adding a layer transforms the whole nail look to something that feels very sweet and personal. Plus it feels cool to tell people "oh yeah that? that's hibiscus and beet root on my nail." Super magical and definitely worth picking up! 

Aquarius Season “Tea”

By Alyssa, CN Buyer and herbalism student

Aquarius is the true wild card of the zodiac. Aquarian’s are distinctly unique- no two you meet will be the same! So in the true spirit of Aquarius, this tea is actually not much of a tea at all… it features Herbal Revolution’s Fire Cider and Topo Chico Sparkling Water. This drink is iced but it will warm you up! It’s tart but it’s sweet! It’s airy but it’s liquid! The sign of Aquarius rules our circulatory system and many ingredients in the fire cider including ginger, horseradish, turmeric, garlic, rosemary, and habanero pepper are known to help boost circulation and increase blood flow.

During the colder months boosting our circulation with herbs like the ones mentioned can help us to fight off that chilled to the bone feeling that can be difficult to shake. Also included in this beverage are both burdock and dandelion root. Many herbalists work with these roots in the springtime (yes, we are almost there!) to assist our organs in their role of filtering toxins from the body. Naturally in the spring time our bodies start to eliminate any toxins that have built up during the winter- burdock and dandelion roots can help to move this process along. Lastly, honey, onions, and hyssop add some sweetness to this otherwise spicy and tart concoction, making it a balanced beverage base. The fire cider is also locally made in Union, Maine, so you can feel great about supporting local farmers.

Fire Cider is based off of a traditional immune-supporting herbal remedy. There is in fact a very similar honey-based recipe traditionally used in the Caribbean, and I’m sure many more around the world! However, the term Fire Cider itself as well as the base recipe was originally coined (or at least popularized) by Rosemary Gladstar, an essential figure in modern American herbalism. Rosemary Gladstar starting using the name and recipe in the late 1970s and taught it to her students for many years. About ten years ago, there was an attempt to trademark the name Fire Cider, which prompted Gladstar and a few other herbalists to form a group called “Tradition Not Trademark” in an attempt to keep the name Fire Cider available for public use. Gladstar and the others’ efforts ended up being successful, making Fire Cider known as a legacy product, which is considered to be a generic term and unable to be trademarked. I thought that this whole ordeal was very Aquarian in nature: putting innovative structures in place with humanitarian intentions. Herbalism at its core has always been by and for the people- just like Aquarians!

To make this beverage, all you need to do is mix 1or 2 tablespoons of the Herbal Revolution Fire Tonic into 8-12 oz of Topo Chico, add ice, stir, and enjoy!

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.

More from Alyssa @vrgohrbls on instagram!

Yeast 101: Everything You Always Wanted To Know

Once upon a time, long, long ago (okay, three years ago), I interviewed for a job at a certain Cambridge-based natural foods store. And during that interview, I got a little sidetracked talking about how much I love to ferment things. Bread, yogurt, pickles--everything. "I just really like microbes," I said.

Anyway, I got the job. And I'm still super into fermentation. I'm a kombucha maker, a pickled-vegetable devotee, and a sourdough master. And all of this is possible with a friendly little fungus called yeast. 

Yeast is a broad category for a type of single-celled organism in Kingdom Fungi. This little fungi lives everywhere around us--on plants, on surfaces, and even on human skin (more on that later). Historical research shows that yeast is one of the earliest known domesticated organisms from its use in beer brewing and breadmaking; archaeological research sites in Israel bear evidence of cultivated yeast colonies from 5,000 years ago! 

A kombucha scoby - wild looking!

Yeast, as a general rule, is a fairly simple creature. It consumes sugar and converts it to alcohol, carbon dioxide, and other compounds. Early humans realized this and took advantage of it: yeast's fermentation is what's responsible for the tangy flavor and spongy texture of sourdough bread, as well as the pleasant fizziness and acidity of both kombucha and beer. Early humans, lacking microscopes, considered the fermentation process to be quite magical and mystical (check out this book if you're interested in the sacred origins of fermentation)!

But yeast is also particular in that it is also quite temperature sensitive. Its growth can be slowed down by cooling it (such as temporarily keeping a sourdough starter in the refrigerator between uses), but it can also be 'deactivated', or killed, by raising it to high temperatures. This renders the yeast unable to ferment (which is what makes it different from the yeast used in baking) but unlocks some unique health benefits. 

The primary form of deactivated yeast you'll find is saccharomyces cerevisiae, colloquially known as nutritional yeast (or, as its fans call it, 'nooch'). Nutritional yeast is cultivated on a sugar medium (usually molasses or sugarcane) before being deactivated with heat, then washed and dried. It's high in B vitamins (especially thiamin and riboflavin) and iron.With its savory, cheesy flavor, it can be used for a variety of different things, from topping popcorn and pasta to making tasty vegan 'cheese' sauces. 

Sourdough starter yum yum yum

A slightly different type of yeast, saccharomyces boulardii, is sometimes used as a probiotic. Studies have shown it to be beneficial in keeping the balance between 'good' and 'bad' bacteria in the gut microbiome, as well as for preventing gastrointestinal distress caused by improper diet or use of antibiotics. 

Yeast does, however, have its drawbacks. An overgrowth of a certain type of yeast known as candida albicans in the body can cause an unpleasant infection in the mouth or genitals. Candida albicans is quite different from the yeasts used in brewing and baking, and can be kept in check with the help of another friendly bacteria called Lactobacillus. So no, you can't get a yeast infection by drinking too much kombucha--but drinking kombucha may actually help to regulate your yeast balance!

Ahh, yeast. So many things are possible with the help of this tiny, nearly-invisible organism. So next time you enjoy a brew at your local pub, or snack on some tasty sourdough from that phenomenal cafe down the street, give a little thanks to the microbe that makes so many cool (and delicious) things happen. 

Here are some of my favorite yeast-based products at Cambridge Naturals:

Bjorn Qorn: At CN, we're all avid devotees of this solar-popped snack. It comes in a few delicious flavors, but I love the original, topped with salt and nutritional yeast.

Rawmesan: If you're looking to upgrade your pasta game, a sprinkling of Rawmesan may be all you need. Made with walnuts, sunflower seeds, and nutritional yeast, it's a delightful vegan and gluten-free condiment to have in your pantry.

Siete Cashew Queso: Hey, nobody said eating vegan had to be healthy. A classic bright-orange queso to serve with tortilla chips and salsa during the big game, this is one of my favorite indulgences at Cambridge Naturals. 

Revival Homestead Kombucha SCOBY: This strange-looking thing is a SCOBY (Symbiotic Culture of Bacteria and Yeast) and can be used to brew a virtually infinite amount of kombucha. While you can technically culture your own SCOBY from scratch, it's a lot quicker and easier to use a premade one. So if you're interested in brewing your own 'booch but don't know where to start, this is a great beginning point. 

Bulk Organic Nutritional Yeast Flakes: The basic and the best. I love experimenting with this stuff in recipes! 

Sources: 

https://www.britannica.com/science/yeast-fungus 

https://www.webmd.com/diet/ss/slideshow-yeast-and-your-body

https://www.rxlist.com/saccharomyces_boulardii/supplements.htm 

Sunday Sip - Sweet Birch Herbals

By Alyssa, CN Buyer and home herbalist

New to our bulk herb shelves are tea blends from Sweet Birch Herbals, a local community herbal medicine company founded by Hannah Jacobsen-Hardy. We currently carry six herbal blends from Sweet Birch- Sip of Sunshine, Digest & Rest, Immune, Sleep Deep, Nourish & Rebuild, and Heart Lifting. These herbal tea blends are carefully crafted using herbs that are grown in the Sweet Birch gardens, sustainably wildcrafted, or sourced from Mountain Rose Herbs (where we at CN get many of our bulk herbs from as well!).

Personally I am excited to try all of these tea blends, but I am starting with the Nourish & Rebuild. This blend in particular is rich in minerals and nutrients and has menstrual cycle balancing properties as well. I have been making big batches of cycle balancing teas throughout the month for a few years now and I always start with raspberry leaf, which is featured in this blend as well! Raspberry leaf is my absolute favorite herb for cycle support and I love that it is high in magnesium as well, a mineral that we could all use more of! (Visit this lovely blog post from Steph Zabel a while back to learn more about raspberry leaf.) I made Nourish & Rebuild as directed, infusing the herbs with boiling water and letting steep for 4-8 hours. The taste of this blend is grassy and refreshing- great to sip on throughout the day. Sip of Sunshine would be amazing for this time of year as well- notes of citrus and bright spice are sure to bring some light and warmth to cold days.

We are so excited to have these thoughtful tea blends here at the store. Let us know what you think!

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.

Sunday Sip - Recess!

By Alyssa, CN Buyer and herbalism student

Mocktails and alcohol alternatives seem to be having a moment! Many of us are realizing that non-alcoholic beverages can be just as fun and and make us feel even better than alcohol can. There is so much potential for creative and functional beverage crafting beyond the need for a spirit. Recess makes amazing functional sparkling waters that are meant to keep us calm, cool, and collected. These beverage feature magnesium or CBD, ginseng, lemon balm, and l-theanine, a carefully formulated blend that gives us calm and focused energy without being overstimulated. I love drinking a Recess Mood at any time of day, especially to wind down in the evening. Staff flavor favorites include the limited edition Zero-Proof “Margarita” and the Blood Orange Mood.

Sunday Sip - Ginger Zinger Tea

By Alyssa, CN Buyer and herbalism student

An essential Cambridge Naturals cold and flu season supplement is our house brand Ginger Zinger Syrups. These syrups come in three varieties: Ginger Zinger, Ginger Zinger Immune, and Ginger Zinger Bronchial. They are all soothing, warming, and deliciously spicy. They taste great on their own but I love mixing one into hot water to make a comforting tea. This is especially nice for times when you may feel under the weather as it is a really easy and quick tea to make.

The Ginger Zinger is made with fresh and dry ginger root, organic honey, vegetable glycerin, and water. The Ginger Zinger Immune has all of that plus echinacea and elderberry for added immune support. The Ginger Zinger Bronchial is also based on the Ginger Zinger plus osha root, wild cherry bark, and licorice root- all great herbs for soothing the throat. All you need to do is mix one to two teaspoons of the syrup into 8oz of hot water. You can make it throughout the day as needed, or just when you’re craving something simple and spicy that’s good for you as well.

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.

Capricorn Season Tea

By Alyssa, CN Buyer and herbalism student

Hello 2023 and hello Capricorn season! Capricorns are known first and foremost for their industriousness and innate urge to build something that will last for many years to come. Although Capricorns are known to work hard, they are much more than their work ethic. Capricorns take laughing very seriously and love to CHILL as well. And frankly, they deserve a calming evening after a day full of inspiring societal contributions! How can they get back to building without proper rest? The star of this tea is kava kava root, a supremely relaxing and earthy herb that can help even the busiest of Capricorns wind down. Also featured is mullein leaf, an amazing herb for this time of year as it is known to help move along and lingering congestion and support general respiratory health. Mullein leaf has proved to be one of the most popular herbs this winter in the store for good reason! Cinnamon chips and licorice root up the earthiness factor as Capricorn is an earth sign, and add a little sweetness as well. Both cinnamon and licorice can be soothing to the throat as well, making this tea generally great for the season. The overall profile of this tea is bittersweet and slightly numbing. Best when drank at night to assist you in winding down for the evening.

Materials

• Tea kettle

• Mug of choice

• Tea strainer or teabag

Ingredients

• 2 tsp kava kava root

• 2 tsp cinnamon chips

• 2 tsp mullein leaf

• 1 tsp licorice root

Directions

• Add all ingredients to a tea strainer or teabag. Pour 12 oz of freshly boiled water over the herbs and cover your mug. Let steep for 15 minutes or more.

• Alternatively, add all ingredients to a pot and simmer on the stove for at least 15 minutes. This is called a decoction and is actually the preferred method when steeping any roots!

• Strain, sip, and enjoy!

Mullein leaf in a Somerville neighbor’s yard.

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.

Staff Picks: Winter Wellness!

Rose

Olba’s Inhaler

I saw a fellow team member use this awhile back and it piqued my curiosity. I admit, I was skeptical, but I am now a total convert. This inhaler provides an intense yet refreshing jolt. If you're a fan of peppermint, menthol, and even that tingly sensation from wasabi, this inhaler is definitely for you. Every time I use it, I immediately feel more awake, refreshed, and I truly believe that it even lifts my mood! As an extra bonus, it's affordable, and small enough to carry around whenever you need a little extra boost of refreshing coolness in your nose, airways, and lungs.

Amber

A. Vogel Soothing Pine Cough Drops

I can't speak highly enough about these cough drops. At first I was worried that they'd be excessively pine-y, like chewing on a Christmas Tree, but they've got a very subtle pine flavor with flavors of honey and mint. They're also zinc-free, which is helpful if you're prone to the nausea that zinc sometimes causes (like I am). These are definitely my favorite lozenges for those dreary winter days when you're feeling under the weather and need an immune-boosting pick-me-up. 

Megan

Apis Apotheca Facial Balm - Honey Mallow Whipped

When the winter winds blow, Honey Mallow provides. This nourishing whipped facial balm made in the Hudson Valley is everything my parched winter skin needs. I have sensitive reactive skin and often deal with winter dry spots and irritation and this product is seriously a game changer. Best used in conjunction with a hydrosol or damp face for better absorption this balm is for everyone but especially those with reactive skin. From acne- to eczema this balm is a literal dream come true. 

Liz

Bulk Ashwagandha Root, Pieces (Local, Organic)

I love ashwagandha as part of an immune building winter wellness tea blend, to support my immune system so that I might get sick less often and less badly if I do. Ashwagandha does double (and triple!) duty because it can relax the nervous system and help regulate circadian rhythm, so I take it to help me sleep and relax as well. For immune support, I like to simmer the bulk root pieces in tea for an hour with other immune building herbs like reishi, eleuthero, astragalus and a bit of licorice root, plus some cinnamon chips and ginger for flavor. 

Emma

Host Defense Mycobrew - Mocha

I was actually gifted the Bulk Canister last year at MGH when they came to my Alzheimer's lab (lions mane -- great for the brain!), and I am just starting to run low on it. It is such a great warm drink in the winter. I find the lions mane really helps me focus whenever I take it--something we all need a little extra help with when laying in bed feels extra enticing. The mocha element is just such a nice little touch--who doesn't want a little chocolate mushroom coffee in the winter? Grab these little travel packets and keep them in your bag for a quick & easy good-for-your-brain drink!

Alina

Brightening Face Polish by Brown & Coconut

This scrub is one of my favorites year round, but it is a life saver particularly in the winter time when my skin leans more dry and sensitive. It only has 3 ingredients! Brown rice flour gently exfoliates away dead skin cells, oats cleanse your pores and tackle inflammation, and hibiscus is key for brightening your skin. I would recommend this for all skin types - especially those with sensitive skin who are perhaps hesitant to try a scrub. Also enjoy this as a mask to soak up all of those benefits for a little longer. Supporting small Black Woman owned businesses like B&C while taking loving care of your skin is a win-win!

Emily

Ursa Major Golden Hour Cream

Total Ursa Major fan girl here, and the Golden Hour recovery cream is my #1 when the dry, icy, blustery season takes hold. It's the protective, nourishing barrier my face needs to retain moisture all winter long! I particularly love it when layered on top of first the Ursa Major Vitamin C Serum and then Heart Grown Wild Veil of Love serum - a triple-threat combo that keeps my skin vibrant and glowing even in the dullest of months!

Zach

Town Tonic Farms Fire Cider

Newer to CN, this lovely local Fire Cider by Town Tonic Farms brings the heat - made locally in Westport this Fire Cider has local Wildflower Honey + Organic Horseradish but also Red Onion, Rosemary, Thyme, and Cayenne.  Take it by the swig or the shot, this is a must this winter season

Brenden

Cocomels Chocolate Covered Sea Salt

ker-a-mel”, “kar-a-mel” ,“car-mel” however you want to say is okay as long as you are feeling the Cocomel affect and you are eating said treat for self care and winter wellness.  This little two pack is just small enough enjoy alone but not big enough to share unless you are buying multiples to share with the humans around you.  "Why should you eat this tasty treat?" That is not the question to ask! "When should I eat this tasty treat?" NOW!

Sofia

Traditional Medicinals Tea - Seasonal Sampler

Start boiling that water! Pull out your favorite mug! It's tea time ;) 
I have been absolutely digging the selection in this sampler. It has 4 tea bags each of herbal cold care, throat coat, echinacea plus and breathe easy.  I got to try the Throat Coat, which I've been wanting to try for a while, without committing to a whole box of it. Score! Now that I have discovered how much I love each of the teas I will not hesitate to buy a full box of each from now on, but for those that love options in life, keep on keeping on with that seasonal sampler! 

Caleb

Marin Soothing Hydrating Cream

I love this new product! If your skin is anything like mine, you'll feel dry and itchy all winter long. I first read about Maine based Marin Skincare and their unique product rich in Glycoproteins, a unique by-product of lobster processing, in an article in the Boston Globe and am super excited to carry them here at CN. This is the most highly moisturizing cream I've found for both face and body and this is the best my skin has felt in many years. 

Alyssa

CN Sinus Blaster Tincture

Well someone had to mention this Cambridge Naturals staple for winter wellness- if you know, you know! This tincture is like nothing else I have ever tried in both its usefulness and taste. It's a combination of potent herbs that are spicy, sweet, cooling, warming, and slightly numbing all at once. In my experience it is so helpful in finding relief from congestion when nothing else is quite working like you need it to. It also comes in a spray version if that's more accessible to you. Happy blasting!

Dev

Mixed Feelings Essential Oil Blend by Vitruvi

'Mixed feelings' are more or less what I have about winter time and the dropping temperatures outside, but the same can't be said about my favorite cold weather essential oil blend! Nothing but positive feelings here towards this warm, inviting combination of rosemary, cardamom, cinnamon, black pepper, and ginger--plus so much more! It's great in a traditional diffuser or as an addition to an aromatherapy-friendly humidifier. 

Keilah

Fat of the Land Hibiscus & Rose Honey with Marshmallow Root

I originally got this honey as a gift for a friend of mine for her birthday. But how could I give something without trying it? This honey is packed with floral and sweet flavors so much so that you don't need to add it to a complex tea blend for it to taste amazing. Hibiscus is filled with antioxidants, vitamin C and iron, all things that will help keep your immune system up and working. Marshmallow root helps soothe your stomach lining, throat irritations, and aids in relieving any coughs you may be experiencing during this season. Rose is a wonderful flower that has antimicrobial properties and reduces inflammation. All to say this honey would be an amazing addition to your winter wellness cabinet. Let the honey speak for itself and try it!

Vicki

Olipop Apple Crisp

One of the most refreshing and satisfying carbonating beverages I have had the pleasure of consuming. Seriously have been drinking a can a night for the past week. It has TONS of fiber, and 2 grams of sugar in the can, so instead of feeling guilty for drinking a soda at night-time, I feel proud that I am drinking a soda at night-time. 

Julia

Thyme Herbal Winter Wellness

This book is not only adorable, but it's incredibly informative as well! The Thyme Herbal Winter Wellness book was written by an herbalist. Bringing you a variety of receipts that will keep you healthy all winter long! As well as focusing on self-care and providing information on seasonal energetics, healing herbs, immunity boosters, and so much more! One of my favorite receipts from this book is the pickled garlic, it's so simple yet so tasty! A perfect read for this time of year.:)

Allison

Megafood Elderberry Immune Support Gummies

These elderberry gummies are great for cold/flu season. In addition to elderberry's immune support, they also have blueberry and ginger. Ginger has anti-inflammatory properties which is helpful for keeping the body healthy and strong to fight off illness! Blueberry is also high in vitamin C which provides an additional layer of immune support. I've been taking these for the last month, and I've really noticed a difference!

Sunday Sip - Mushroom Hot Chocolate

By Alyssa, CN Buyer & Herbalism Student

Tis the season for hot chocolate! Although I wish it was snowing instead of raining, I am still craving a nice warm chocolatey drink this week. Om Mushrooms puts their own spin on the classic comforting beverage by adding a hearty blend of functional mushrooms. Their blend of Lion’s Mane, Chaga, Reishi, and Turkey Tail provides us with flavonoids and antioxidants. Also included is ashwagandha, a root that is known for its adaptogenic properties- meaning it helps our body adapt to stressors when enoyed over time. I think this hot chocolate powder is most delicious when mixed into hot oat milk, but is great with hot water as well.

To make: Heat up 12oz of your milk of choice (I like Minor Figures Oat Milk best!) or boil 12oz hot water. Add in 2 packets of Om Mushroom Hot Chocolate and stir well. Top it off with whipped cream and some cocoa powder if you have it! Enjoy!

Volunteer work and supporting the community around you in the New Year! ❤️

By Julia, Customer Service Specialist

Start out the new year by making an impact in your community and be a part of the change! This time of year can be especially hard, whether it’s trying to find shelter, putting food on the table, staying warm, or even just staying healthy. Mentally and physically. Want to make a difference? Want to help the community around you, but don’t know where to start? That’s what I’m here for! Not only am I going to help you find volunteer work, but I’m going to mention other ways to make a difference than just community service. And, research has shown that getting involved in a cause and helping others can have a measurably positive impact on your own sense of connection, mental health and well-being. So, win-win! I will also be mentioning a site that gives information about support groups that might help during this difficult time. I hope you find this helpful! 

Interfaith Social Services:

Based in the south shore, Interfaith Social Services is a nonreligious organization that provides a wide variety of ways to aid those in need. Their services include financial donation, homelessness prevention, plant grow share, food and clothing donations, volunteer work, counseling, help for the holidays, fundraising, and the bureau drawer thrift shop. This group values community, compassion, inclusion, and collaboration with other groups and organizations to further their cause.  

• Help For The Holidays is a seasonal program that allows individuals, businesses, and churches to give support to their food pantry client families. These kind volunteers buy gifts for the families that would not otherwise be able to provide for their children. Last year, this program helped almost 700 children. Thankfully all their client families are booked this year! Although if you still want to help you can make a monetary donation!

• Plant Grow Share involves donating fresh fruits and vegetables from individuals or organizations who have a little extra to give from their own garden. This helps provide healthy food for the community! Also when available, seedlings are given out to local gardeners for the spring. Interfaith also has volunteers help grow a garden of their own in the alleyway at their office in Quincy. Thus showing us it’s possible to have a garden wherever you are, no matter the size!

• Financial Donation is a general donation to support the group itself so they can continue to give aid and put that donation to use for programs like HomeSafe and Mental Health Counseling. You chose the amount to donate and whether you would like to donate monthly or just once!

• Food Donations are put into use for the food pantry that provides essential nourishment to individuals and families in need. This food pantry has been around since 1975 and is one of the biggest food pantries of Greater Boston.

• Fundraising gives you the opportunity to work together with your community and influence the people around you to take part as well. On the interfaith site, you can get information on how to start your own fundraiser and how to get the word across more efficiently.

• Volunteer Work at Interfaith includes a 3-hour weekly shift in all different kinds of roles in assisting the food pantry and thrift shop. They provide opportunities for individuals, youth groups, and business groups. These shifts also involve a morning shift or afternoon shift. 

• Bureau Drawer Thrift Shop is a thrift shop that gives 100% of its proceeds to Interfaiths food pantry, mental health counseling, and homelessness prevention program. This thrift store is completely run by volunteers and sells everything from clothes to houseware. If you love to thrift, there’s no better place than this! Get some goodies and make a difference!

• Homelessness Prevention is a program at interfaith called HomeSafe. In this program, eligible clients can get assistance with things like budgeting, help with rent, utilities, and more! They also give additional information to other resources for financial assistance on their website. Want to take part in this program? All you have to do is donate! 

City Year:

This organization provides support for students by giving them the tools they need to succeed. They work hard to show kids their potential and capabilities, as well as helping them believe in themselves. Thus creating more motivation and drive. City Year works with over 29 cities to give students the opportunity to connect with a mentor. Allowing these kids to have an adult figure to help guide them and give them the support they wouldn’t otherwise have. To be a part of this life changing program you could either fill out an application to volunteer or just donate to the cause!

Groundwork Somerville:

Since 2000, Groundwork has been striving for more accessible fresh produce, hands-on education, youth empowerment, and civic engagement, making them an essential part of their community. Programs such as Green Team, School Gardens, and South Farm Street provide a multitude of opportunities for students and volunteers alike. The people of Somerville are able to take part in creating a safe place to learn and grow; bringing more vegetation into the city to work with mother nature instead of against her. Not only does Groundwork focus on the importance of the environment, but social, racial, and economic justice as well. They recognize that there is much to be done when it comes to equality. With their high school program, they discuss topics such as racism, sexism, environmental injustice. As well as ARMS program participants to address these important topics. Lastly, this farm provides space for community gatherings as well as a place for pollinators to thrive. 

• Green Team is a program that works on leadership and teen employment. Teens get paid to work at the garden and learn how to cultivate their own food. Not only that, but they also focus on civic engagement, environmental justice, urban agriculture, and biking. 

• School Gardens educate kids about all different kinds of fruits and vegetables that they can grow themselves, as well as cook the food they cultivate in their garden. This program is available in eight of Somerville’s public elementary and middle schools, as well as a charter school. Groundwork offers both in-school and after-school programs for kids to learn how to plan, plant, and harvest. School gardens also give kids the opportunity to learn about other subjects in a unique way. Subjects like math, biology, chemistry, art, and so much more! To be a part of this amazing program you can volunteer your time or donate!

• South Farm Street is Groundworks urban farm site along with the Artfarm location. Between these two locations, approximately 2,000lbs of food is harvested to provide fresh and affordable food to the people of Somerville. This is also the location for the Green Team, school groups, and volunteers to take part in helping their community. As well as working together with mother nature! In turn, South Farm Street provides a wonderful home for pollinators in the city. 

Rosie’s Place:

As the first ever only women's shelter, Rosie’s Place has been providing shelter and meals to women in need since 1974. Their mission is to help women who struggle with homelessness feel safe as well as giving them more opportunities with mental health care, recovery, job applications, rent, utilities, and transportation. Rosie’s Place offers a safe haven to women of the LGBTQA+ community as well and has a place for any women, no matter religion, ethnicity, age, race, or perceived ability. To be a part of the impact you could make a donation, whether it's financial, food, clothing, or utilities. If you have the capabilities, volunteering is a great option as well. Rosie’s Place provides volunteer opportunities for groups with catering and workshops. As well as individual volunteering in serving meals, prepping meals, teaching classes, and leading an art workshop. 

NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness):

This site gives information on all kinds of support groups. From recovery, and mental health, to groups that are for friends and family members of those who are struggling. Currently, these group meetings are done remotely and are available Monday to Friday with multiple time slots. This site also provides other resources as well, like information on housing, employment, family support, health insurance, and so much more!

There’s always a way to help and give back to your community. Even if that means just talking about these important topics and spreading the word. If you are someone who needs a little extra help, please don’t hesitate to reach out and find support.