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Putting Together Your On-The-Go Essentials

These are a few of our favorite must-haves for your purse, pocket, car or office: natural solutions to help you cope with common colds and more. Read on to see how keeping these products handy can help you conquer any day, no matter where you are.

1. Xyloburst Gum

Everyone needs gum, right? It freshens breath and cleans your palate after a meal on the run. Chances are you have some in your car, purse or pocket right now. But take a look at what’s in it. Read the fine print. Check out what’s making it sweet. Some gums contain sugar – a brilliant idea for cleaning your teeth (NOT!). Other gums contain aspartame or other synthetic alternative sweeteners that we don’t love for many reasons. Try swapping your old gum in for some gym with Xylitol. A sugar alcohol derived from corn or birch trees, xylitol kills bacteria that cause bad breath and cavities. Chewing gum with xylitol after meals can help ensure fresh breath AND a healthy smile.

2. Urban Moonshine Digestive Bitters

Our bodies are designed to break down the foods we eat and absorb nutrients from them, but our poor modern diets tend to interfere with this. Digestive bitters are a group of herbs that have the power to stimulate digestive function gently and effectively by encouraging the production of healthy enzymes. Bitters can help receive heartburn, gas, bloating and even decrease sugar cravings, according to our friends at Urban Moonshine. We especially love their handy portable spray bottle. If you’re on-the-go and experiencing discomfort, a few sprays are all you need to be on your way!

3. Ultima Replenisher

These little packets will put you back on course when you are feeling thirsty, tired or dehydrated. Full of electrolytes and minerals, this powder will mix right into your water bottle when shaken and works fast to bring balance to your body! Great for hot days, stressful days, or days when you are recovering from being sick. And they taste amazing, too 😉 Don’t leave home without a packet!

4. Activated Charcoal

Going out to eat can be an adventure- especially for our stomach. This is when activated charcoal can be your best friend. Charcoal can capture unwanted material that can wreak havoc on your body, carrying it through your digestive system and potentially saving you an emergency trip to the restroom. Keep it on hand to relieve gas and bloating and even safeguard against food poisoning!

5. Aura Cacia Peppermint Oil

Peppermint essential oil is a superhero. The cooling effect it has on the senses makes it super useful for so many things. It can provide relief for nausea, hot flashes, fever, sinus congestion, stress, migraines and more. Apply a drop to a tissue and inhale, or dilute with a carrier oil in a roller ball applicator to apply to your skin (such as the back of your neck and temples) to bring calm to what’s bothering you. The oil can also extinguish the itch of a bug bite and cool the irritation of a hot rash.

6.Bachs Rescue Pastilles

You’re late and that clock is just bearing down on you- this is going to be a long day. You know that pit in your stomach you get from this sort of stress? That’s what Rescue Remedy is all about. Using the power of homeopathic flower essences, this remedy works with your body to bring about a natural sense of calm when you need it most. These pastilles are discreet and easy to take- just pop one in your mouth and let it dissolve. Before long you’ll realize everything is just fine.

7. Amazing Trio by Amazing Grass

It’s 3:00pm and you need a pick-me-up. But if you reach for that cup of coffee, you know you’re going to be up half the night. This is no longer a predicament when you’ve got a packet of greens handy! This powder mixes quickly with water to provide an instant boost for your system. It oxygenates, alkalizes and detoxifies with nutrient-rich superfoods. These little packets pack a punch of Wheat Grass, Barley Grass and Alfalfa. They fill in nutritional gaps and bring you up to your best potential!

8. Everyday Throat Spray

This soothing throat spray provides instant relief to a dry mouth, a scratchy throat, or a nagging cough. It freshens your breath with peppermint and cools your throat too. The additional of colloidal silver in this formula allows the spray to attack bacteria that cause these problems. It also uses osha root as a trusted herbal cough remedy, and licorice root to soothe irritated mucous membranes. A dash of ginger within helps to calm congestion and reduces nausea. This is a must-have in everyone’s bag!

Click Here to download our

On-the-go Essentials shopping list!

Works Cited

Steinberg, LM; Odusola, F; Mandel, ID (Sep–Oct 1992). “Remineralizing potential, antiplaque and antigingivitis effects of xylitol and sorbitol sweetened chewing gum.”. Clinical preventive dentistry. 14 (5): 31–4. PMID 1291185.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmedhealth/PMHT0008816/?report=details

http://articles.mercola.com/herbal-oils/peppermint-oil.aspx

Information on this web site is provided for informational purposes only. This information is not intended as a substitute for the advice provided by your physician or other healthcare professional or any information contained on or in any product label or packaging. Do not use the information on this web site for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease, or prescribing medication or other treatment. Always speak with your physician or other healthcare professional before taking any medication or nutritional, herbal or homeopathic supplement, or using any treatment for a health problem. If you have or suspect that you have a medical problem, contact your health care provider promptly. Information and statements regarding dietary supplements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

January 9, 2017
Building Your Natural Medicine Cabinet

When was the last time you cleaned out your medicine cabinet? If you’re like many others, you may have a few bottles of expired product, unused product, or product you’re not sure how you acquired. You may not have benefitted from using some of it and some over-the-counter pharmaceutical products may have even generated some unwanted side effects for you. What a waste of money! (And space!)

If this sounds familiar, you’re probably interested in seeking alternative natural solutions to managing your health. We think that’s smart! Save your health AND money… and read on to save your time making selections. We’ve got our top picks for building a fully-stocked natural medicine cabinet with a good solution to nearly all of your wellness needs. Read on…

Starting with our top shelf, left to right:

1. XLear:

If you’re prone to sinus problems or allergies, you need this product; this gentle nasal spray contains xylitol – a sugar alcohol that sends bacteria to the grave

2. Boiron Oscillococcinum:

Always keep a pack handy for when flu-like symptoms hit; this homeopathic remedy is best used at the onset of symptoms and can help you get back to feeling yourself again simply by working with your body’s own natural defense systems to spur needed action

3. Aura Cacia Organic Eucalyptus Oil:

So many uses for this aromatherapeutic gem; add a few drops to a humidifier in cold months, or to a facial steam bath to help relieve nasal congestion discomfort

4. Boiron Nux Vomica:

When nausea strikes, Nux Vomica is to the rescue; this homeopathic remedy is popular for relieving discomfort from hangovers and more and is easily taken by dropping a few tiny pellets under the tongue to dissolve

5. Rescue Remedy:

Available in spray, pastille, gelcap or liquid form, this flower essence remedy is used for addressing mild anxiety, nervousness and tension

6. Fire Cider:

Put some pep in your step or boost your immunity with this food-based tonic filled with anti-inflammatory, cold-busting nutrients; one shot and you’ll feel all the goodness this tonic has to offer

7. Deep Sleep:

A favorite of those who have trouble sleeping, this formula contains an array of herbs known to help promote restful sleep without groggy, cranky side effects that no one wants to deal with

8. MigreLief:

Antioxidants, minerals and vitamins combine forces to help relief symptoms associated with painful migraine headaches without any caffeine or stimulants

9. Aller-Aid:

A beautiful blend of herbs and powerful antioxidants that helps address symptoms that so many with allergies suffer with needlessly

10. Herbalist & Alchemist Peppermint Tincture:

Peppermint is an herb that has been used for thousands of years to help calm an upset stomach; simply drop this liquid into water, tea, or a comforting beverage

11. Enzymedica Acid Soothe:

This formula uses powerful digestive enzymes to break down foods that may cause acid reflux symptoms in sensitive individuals; this product addresses the root cause of the discomfort

12. Jason Vitamin E:

Known for its skin healing properties, liquid vitamin E is a great solution for addressing scarring and other troublesome skin issues

13. Urban Moonshine’s Digestive Bitters:

This liquid promotes your body’s own production of salivary amylase, which helps break down certain types of food you consume, potentially helping relieve symptoms like gas, bloating and mild digestive discomfort

14. Oregon’s Wild Harvest Namaste:

An organic blend of adaptogenic herbs, this liquid tincture is a great solution to help your body best cope with the stressful demands of everyday life

15. Grapefruit Seed Extract:

Address fungal issues with power; this liquid can be ingested, applied topically, or even used as a laundry additive or food-grade cleanser

16. Arnica Montana:

Used to help relieve discomfort associated with bruising, muscle soreness and inflammation, this homeopathic remedy is often prescribed after falls, injuries or surgery

17. Arnica Gel:

A topical version of this homeopathic remedy that is often used on bruises and areas of swelling

18. Sovereign Silver First Aid Gel:

Complete with colloidal silver, this topical solution suggests usage on skin requiring protection from bad bacteria

19. Banyan Nasaya Oil:

Dry nasal passages or bloody noses? This oil is intended to be swabbed on the inner tissues of the nasal passageway to provide needed moisture

20. Tea Tree Oil:

This essential oil has too many benefits to list! No cabinet is complete without it!

At Basil Bandwagon, we have a variety of facial, dental, and skin care products free of the chemicals and preservatives you want to avoid. Don’t forget to make these a part of your natural medicine cabinet, since your skin absorbs what you put on it!

Not pictured, but another great addition to your medicine cabinet is activated charcoal. A well-known antidote for food poisoning, this supplement is also used for whitening teeth (when added to toothpaste) or as a natural detoxifier.

As with any substance, you should always check with a doctor or medical professional before use, especially in an emergency or life-threatening situation or if you have any underlying health problems.

Love this post? Click HERE for a printable shopping list of these items!

January 3, 2017
10 Smoothies You’ll Never Get Tired Of

December 30, 2016
5 Supplements You (and Everyone Else) Might Benefit From

2017: Whether your goal is more energy, less stress, better digestion, weight loss or improved fitness, this article is for you. If none of these are your goal, this article is also for you! All of us want to optimize our wellbeing – but many of us don’t know where to start. Our modern-day stressful lifestyles and convenience-based food choices leave much room for nutritional deficits and more. Even the most mindful eaters living low stress lifestyles in today’s world can use support from basic supplements, as food choices alone may not be the answer to optimal health. Industrial farming techniques can deprive crops and meats of key nutrients. Here are five supplements you’ll want to consider bringing into your daily routine in 2017:

Omega-3 Fatty Acids

We need this good fat to balance out the bad fat that is so heavily consumed in the standard American diet -often referred to as “SAD” for good reason. Deficits of good fat can wreak damage on our cardiovascular systems, immune systems and more. Incorporating a quality omega-3 fatty acid supplement into your routine will help support a healthy immune system, healthy skin/hair/nails, and a healthy digestive system.

Probiotics:

More IS more when it comes to good bacteria. Research has shown that antibiotics depletes our digestive systems of good bacteria, which may negatively impact our bodies in many ways. This concept – along with poor dietary choices – leaves our guts lacking in the diverse flora needed to be in optimal health. Probiotic supplementation can help support optimal digestion and a healthy immune system, among many other benefits.

Vitamin D3:

Many of us (especially in this region of the world) are deficient in Vitamin D3. This is due to lack of sun exposure – which is how Vitamin D3 is acquired in our bodies. Many of us spend our days indoors without sun. If we are lucky enough to be outside, the winter sun exposure is mild and our layers of clothing inhibit absorption. Supplementation with Vitamin D3 may help protect us from many chronic neurological, cognitive, and mood conditions, according to recent research. Vitamin D3 can help support healthy immune function, healthy energy levels, and a healthy mood.

Magnesium:

You’ve probably heard a lot about magnesium lately- and for good reason. Like the other nutrients mentioned here, magnesium is particularly prone to depletion in our foods due to poor soil conditions within industrial farming. Furthermore, processed food, soft water, and caffeine may reduce your body’s absorption of this critical mineral. Magnesium supplementation may help relieve discomfort associated with headaches and muscle cramping, and supports a positive mood and restfulness.

Adaptogenic Herbs:

Busy modern lifestyle often leaves people “wired and tired”. Stress robs us of our positive mood, energy levels, and our ability to fight off illness. Simply put, our bodies were not designed to withstand some of the stressful lifestyles we live today. Adaptogenic herbs may help support a more positive reaction to stress – allowing our bodies to potentially better cope with life’s everyday demands. Adaptogens work on our endocrine and nervous systems and help support a healthy reaction to stress, positive mood and restfulness.

December 30, 2016
Winter Citrus & Beet Salad

Fresh, Sweet Satsuma Mandarins pair with Beets and Goat Cheese for this refreshing salad. It’s easy to put together and packs well for lunch!

We chose to use cooked beets from Love Beets. These little jewels make quick work of all kinds of recipes. Baby Romaine is soft and plays nice with all the bold flavors going on. We used our raw walnuts from our bulk section, and Raw Goat Feta from Mt. Sterling Co-Op Creamery.

No need to measure- it’s all up to your flavor preferences. Peel the mandarin, chop the beets, crumble the cheese and toss together. Top with the dressing of your choice- we like simple balsamic vinegar and oil.

December 19, 2016
10 Minute Herbal Christmas Ornaments
Looking for something easy to bring the hostess of that upcoming party? Need an inexpensive gift? Make lovely ornaments that can double as a tea!

Here’s what you’ll need:
- Empty Glass Globe Ornaments
- Bulk Herbs
- Funnel
Simply fill the ball with the loose herbs. We kept ours simple, using singular herbs in each, but you could create custom blends that could be poured into a tea ball!

Relax Blend:

Lavender, Chamomile, Lemon Balm

Cold-Fighter Blend:

Elderberries, Rosehips, Cinnamon

Cold-Soother Blend:

Marshmallow, Peppermint, Mullein Leaf

Tummy Soother Blend:

Chamomile, Peppermint

Blues Blend:

Oatstraw, Lemonbalm, Spearmint
December 13, 2016
Top Picks from Our Brand

In a sea of supplements to choose from, it helps to know what brands to trust. We are pleased to offer a brand WE trust and turn to!

Here’s our favorites from our in-house supplements:

With all that we know now about the benefit’s of taking Turmeric, this is our favorite to keep on hand for regular use. It contains a standardized 475 mg. of curcuminoids that come from a clinically studied source, and is delivered in easy-to-swallow capsules.

Let’s face it, we ALL smile when we see this supplement. We could all use some brain support! With the amount of information we are faced with in todays world, there’s no way we can cope without a little help. This formula boosts brain function with Ginko Biloba, Phosphatidyl Serine, L-Carnitine, DHA, Choline and more.

D3 is essential- and we love the fact that ours only requires a single DROP to get 2,000 IU. One bottle lasts a long time, which makes this not only a potent choice, but an excellent value!

Adrenal Support means helping your body balance it’s reactions to the stressors in you life. Whether stress ramps you up or shuts you down, the reaction takes a toll. Basil Bandwagon Brand Adrenal Support contains Rhodiola, Eleuthero, Schizandra and Ashwaganda: Adaptogenic Herbs help control the reaction, and bring balance to your hormones and energy levels. This supplement also has B vitamins, L-Tyrosine (an amino acid known for helping with anxiety) and Gotu Kola.

Basil Bandwagon Brand Supplements are 25% Off until May 31st- stock up on our favorites and yours.

December 12, 2016
All the Best Stocking Stuffers!

Specialty Chocolates:

Look no further! We’ve got the best selection of chocolate around. And with fair trade, raw and pure cacao, vegan, and sugar-free options, there’s something for everyone!

Herbal Teas:

Comfort your loved-one this holiday season with a box of their favorite tea in their stocking. Or better yet – pick them out something new you think they’d like. Ask one of our team members for support making a selection!

Hair & Body Brushes:

New year – new brushes. Help your loved one freshen up their skin or their style with a brand new brush – a perfect stocking stuffer!

Incense:

We have a wide selection of hand-blended, hand-rolled incense cones and sticks. Each stick or cone can provide up to an hour of enjoyable aroma for your loved one.

Gum:

Give the gift of good breath! Just kidding…sort of. Much of our selection of sugar free gum contains xylitol – a great-tasting sugar alcohol that has been found to potentially promote good oral health.

Pet Treats & Toys:

Can’t forget Fido! Give your pet something to wag or purr about. Antlers, treats, canned food and organic toys, they’ll love whatever you choose!

Bar Soap

Bar soap makes a great stocking stuffer. With clean, all-natural ingredients, you can feel great about gifting your loved one and they can too!

Tea Light Candles:

Delight your loved one with delightful aromas and ambiance this holiday. A pack of four tea candles from Way Out Wax will fit neatly into any stocking.

Single Use Facial Masks:

At just the right price, single use facial masks provide soothing comfort and beauty to anyone – young, old, male or female! Let your loved one pamper themselves with a natural treatment.

Nail Polish:

Free of formaldehyde, toluene, dibutyl phthalate and camphor, Mineral Fusion nail polishes come in gorgeous colors and are a great choice for someone who likes clean cosmetics.

Ginger Candies:

Ginger candies are a favorite of many of our customers. Made with fresh ginger, they soothe bellies and satisfy a sweet tooth.

Lip Balm:

Everyone could use a stick (or 2…or 3) of natural lip balm. Opt for our natural varieties with shea butter and coconut oil rather than petroleum-based products from drug stores.

Perfume Roll-On Sticks:

These pretty little roll-on sticks dispense just the right amount of all-natural perfume and they’re perfect for tucking into a purse when freshening up is in order. Floral, citrus, and earthy scents provide a favorite for everyone.

Pocket-Sized Supplements:

Single protein powder packets, superfood packets, and liquid herbal tinctures are all great stocking stuffers. Support healthful mood, digestion and more. What better gift than the gift of good health?

Personal Essential Oil Diffuser:

Monq diffusers are sleek and offer all the benefits of aromatherapy in a handheld device. With zero nicotine, tobacco or artificial chemicals and seven different varieties, these are perfect for a loved one seeking happy, sleepy, vibrant, active, healthy, sexy, or zen vibes.

December 5, 2016
Bio Dynamic: Above and Beyond Organic
As a conscious consumer, you like to be aware of the quality of all ingredients in your food as well as the labeling that denotes the quality.

A new and important label you may or may not yet be familiar with is taking USDA Organic standards to the next level. “Biodynamic®” is an exciting — yet complex — way of growing crops and here’s what it involves:

Biodynamic farming:
Overall, Biodynamic farmers view their farms as self-contained, self-sustaining organisms. The wellbeing of the farm animals, the farmer, the grounds and the Earth are viewed as integral parts that make up a whole.

To qualify as a Certified Biodynamic farm or product, it must be certified by Demeter USA- a non-profit formed in 1985 to promote Biodynamic agriculture. Demeter USA is part of Demeter International – the oldest ecological certification organization operating in 45 countries globally.

Check out the products for yourself- look for this tag:

For more information on Biodynamic standards, click here.
December 5, 2016
Allergy Friendly Holiday Classics!

This time of year can wreak havoc on your system. Comfort food is everywhere: scents of baked goods, sugary delights and holiday candles abound. Choosing better ingredients and allergy-friendly options can minimize the side effects of the holidays. Here’s some of our favorite alternatives:

Silk Almond Nog

Can’t have dairy? Can’t have Soy? There’s still a nog option for you!

Kite Hill Cream Cheese Style Spread in Chive

Everyone else is having cheese and crackers- but you can’t do dairy. This spread from Kite Hill makes it easy with their almond-based spread. Pick up some crackers and dip away!

Dandy Blend Instant Beverage

Cold evenings call for warm beverages- and coffee is a favorite! If you can’t drink coffee, or you are looking to cut down, Dandy Blend is an EXCELLENT alternative! It’s rich and smooth and plays well with your favorite creamer and sweetener. The best part is how easy it is- just mix in!

Pascha Organic Chocolate Rice Milk Chips

What’s so amazing about these Chocolate Chips? Check out whats NOT in them! Nut Free, Dairy Free, Wheat & Gluten Free, AND Soy Free. This makes these safe for a crowd!

Aleia’s Savory Stuffing Mix (Gluten Free!)

Don’t miss out on stuffing! Aleia’s makes Gluten Free EASY- and yummy. It’s also dairy free, corn free and non-GMO.

TruJoy Candy Canes

Everyone wants candy canes this time of year- but check out the ingredients! Our candy canes are free of dyes and other junk that you don’t want, but have all the minty goodness you crave.

Wholesome Sweeteners Organic Coconut Sugar

One sprinkle of this, and you’ll find yourself forgetting to use brown sugar! Coconut sugar is low-glycemic and still offers that warm sweetness you look for on top of sweet rolls, and cookies.

November 29, 2016