Category: Health

  • Winter Skin Woes

    Winter Skin Woes

  • Eat This – Not That, Holiday Edition

  • Our Back to School Top 5’s

    Our Back to School Top 5’s

    Five Easy Lunches Ideas

    As a busy parent, school lunches can be one of the most frustrating things to manage for your kids.  

    • They don’t like school lunches.
    • A quick pitstop at a deli or fast food place on the way to school to grab lunch to go isn’t the healthiest option.
    • Packing lunches from home is overwhelming and time-consuming.

    Feels familiar, right? We’ve got some QUICK, EASY, and HEALTHY solutions for you. Basil to the rescue!

    When packing a lunch, consider it should have 4 elements:

    1. Protein, to keep them full
    2. Fruit or veggie, to keep them nourished
    3. A healthy carbohydrate, to keep them energized
    4. Something sweet, to keep them interested

    This alone can help you set food out and get an idea of what to pack.

    Here’s 5 of our favorite lunch ideas with links to easy recipes that you’ll want to use over and over!

    Hummus Platter:

    No recipe needed: Find your favorite hummus, add crunchy chips, and some veggies to dip and this one is good to go! Slip in a better-for-you treat to satisfy a sweet tooth at the end of their meal.

     

    Pizza Mini Quiches:

    These are made ahead of time and kept in the fridge. There are tons of recipes online- a quick google search will help you out! These will fill up bellies, satisfy cravings for pizza, and can be made with non-dairy cheese. The toppings are totally up to you. We kept it simple here with pepperoni.

    Spring Rolls:

    These are crunchy AND chewy at the same time. And, let’s face it, they look cool. Once you master HOW to make them, you’ll see how easy and flexible they are! Try shredded carrots, sprouts, finely sliced bell peppers…anything your kiddo will try! Roll them up into a spring roll and ta-da! Add a sauce for dipping, if you like!

    Quesadillas:

    Sure a nice, hot quesadilla is ideal, but they taste pretty good cold, as well. They are great for picky eaters and provide a nice savory balance to sweeter flavors. Add a crunchy veggie, some fruit and salsa for dipping.

    Leftover Makeover:

    Make a little extra at dinner and pack up the rest- hot OR cold for lunches the next day. It will stretch your food budget and make easy work of meal packing in the morning. Here’s some ideas we dig:

    7 Ways to Turn Leftovers into Lunch 

    Leftovers for Lunch

    Rework Leftovers for Easy School Lunches

     

    Five after School Snacks that will help kids Stay Focused

     

    #1: Organic Popcorn

    Crunch, crunch, crunch: engaging the senses keeps kids in focus. Working to chew food can keep a kids awake and alert. Easy-to-eat popcorn is a great option for this. It’s tasty, salty, and most people can’t resist it once they smell it and its placed in front of them. We LOVE Farmer Steve’s Popcorn, its not only ORGANIC, it’s super-duper local and makes a terrific snack.

    #2: Pumpkin Seeds

    Pumpkin seeds are nutrient rich and full of brain-loving Omega 3s and zinc. They also provide that crunch, as well as a boost of protein that will hold them over until dinner.

    #3 Go Raw Bar

    Chewy is similar to crunchy in that it pulls in the senses. Chewy can mean sticky or sugary, but not with these. Go Raw Chewy Apricot sprouted bars are JUST fruit with sprouted flaxseeds. Sprouted means MORE nutrition and easier digestion of the flaxseeds. You kids will love the chewy texture and the fruity flavor.

    #4 MadeGood Granola Minis

    These adorable little goodies are made in a dedicated facility free from the 8 common allergens: peanut, tree nuts, wheat, dairy, egg, soy, sesame, fish and shellfish, making them a safe bet for all kids. They are totally additive free and get a nutrition boost from sneaking in veggies (in powder form!). Organic, non-gmo…and did we mention these are SUPER tasty?

    #5 Fruit

    Fruit is sweet and cool and squishy. It’s also full of vitamins and water and fiber and is something kids will always reach for. Especially if you make it fun. Try skewers, or cut fruit into chunks that can be dipped into yogurt. Check out our produce specials and stock up on the seasonal favorites every week.

     

    Five Supplements that will Keep Kids Well this Year

     

    #1 Megafood Kids Daily Immune

    Add a dose of this to a glass of juice or smoothie. Megafood gets all their nutrients from food sources in their unique extraction process. This blend of citrus, Elderberries and Echinacea (and more) is as clean as you can get and delivers the most bang for your buck in keeping colds and flu away.

    #2 Wileys Finest Alaskan Fish Oil:

    Long chain Omega 3 fatty acids reduce inflammation and might even strengthen the immune system. Omega 3’s are SO important and difficult to get into our diets. This fish oil will also help with focus and it TASTES AWESOME!

    #3: Sambu Guard for Kids

    Elderberry syrup isn’t just for hippies anymore- it’s for everyone because it WORKS. It’s easy to take because it tastes good, and people are seeing results. We like this formula because its only sweetened with fruit juice and it combines elderberry with elderflower, echinacea and licorice extract.

    #4: Herbs for Kids: Nettles & Eyebright

    Allergies can wreck a students day. Coughing, sneezing, watering eyes… it’s uncomfortable. The side effects of prescriptions can be even worse than the symptoms you are trying to control. Nettles serve as a sort of natural anti-histamine. Eyebright is anti-inflammatory, especially to the mucous membranes. This herbal formula can be taken in a cup of tea or mixed in with a little honey.

    #5: Renew Life Ultimate Flora Kids Probiotic

    Gut health is SUPER important to immune health. We need good bacteria to go to battle for us from the inside out. Keeping kids on a solid probiotic is one way to make sure you have this part covered.

     

     

     

  • Your Embarassing Questions ANSWERED: Lady Parts

    Your Embarassing Questions ANSWERED: Lady Parts

    We get questions all day long that make people blush. Rather than wait for you to call, we figured we’d tackle the issues with video!

  • Meet May’s Featured Drink: Sunshine Smoothie

    Spring is in full swing and summer is on the horizon. Everyone is looking forward to warm evenings and days full of fun. What better way to celebrate this glorious anticipation than with something sunny and sweet?

    Meet our Sunshine Smoothie:

     

    We blended frosty chunks of mango with cool coconut milk, added tangy orange juice and a few creamy bananas to round it out. A scoop of turmeric adds not only a boost of inflammatory goodness, but it gives this smoothie its bright orange hue!

    Try one today!

     

  • 12 Uses for CBD Balm

    12 Uses for CBD Balm

    CBD Balm is a favorite of ours, here. It’s uses go beyond just aches and pains- it’s a versatile product that has us buying it over and over and even panicking when our supply is low!

    In this video, Jenna shows you 12 ways you can use this balm and find relief from common issues.

  • 10 Supplements to Stock Up On from this Month’s Sale

    10 Supplements to Stock Up On from this Month’s Sale

    This month’s sale is on Boiron and Europharma: 25% Off! Perfect time to stock up!

    Boiron Supplements

    1. Oscillococcinum

    This is one of our go-to remedies for fighting off flu-symptoms. It is safe, natural and easy to take. It has been shown in clinical studies to help reduce both the duration and the severity of flu-like symptoms (www.oscilli.com). We recommend always having a box on-hand at home so that you are prepared for when these dreaded symptoms hit! Oscillococcinum is best taken at the FIRST sign of symptoms.

    1. Sabadil

    Allergies are the worst! With Spring around the corner, we all need to be prepared. Itchy and watery eyes, sneezing, runny noses, and itchy noses are all part of the nuisance that this homeopathic supplement can address. Keep a box on hand at work, in your purse, and at home.

    1. Arnicare Gel

    For muscle pain, stiffness, swelling from injuries and bruising, this stuff is a life-saver. Simply apply the gel onto your skin in the affected areas. The gel absorbs so nicely and provides wonderful relief from the discomfort of pain. It is unscented, non-greasy and gentle on skin.

    1. Kali Phosphoricum 30c

    Too many hours spent working – especially staring at your computer and smart phone? We’ve all been there. This homeopathic remedy is one of the most popular for good reason. It is used to alleviate discomfort from tension headaches associated with intellectual fatigue. The tube of pellets is easily stored in your purse or workbag so you can reach for it as soon as your headache hits you.

    1. Hypericum Perforatum 30c

    Many of us suffer from nerve pain at some point in our lives: sciatica, fibromyalgia, shingles and more. These conditions can be incredibly painful to manage. With more folks preferring to opt for natural, non-prescription pain relief, this is a great option to manage nerve pain.  As a homeopathic remedy, Hypericum Peforatum is safe to take in conjunction with other medications and supplements.

    Europharma’s Terry Naturally

    1. CuraMed 350mg Effervescent Tablets

    Many chronic health conditions are inflammatory-based. Beyond swelling and stiffness, inflammation can cause pain, which can impact mobility and mood. Pain medications are often prescribed by healthcare practitioners to manage symptoms, but they do not address the root of the problem. Steroids are also often prescribed by healthcare practitioners to manage the swelling, but do not come without some major side effects.  Curcuma longa – the active concentrate of turmeric – provides powerful natural relief from inflammation. For folks who have trouble with swallowing pills or tablets, these dissolvable effervescent tablets are a great effective alternative.

    1. Curamin PM

    If chronic pain keeps you awake at night, this supplement is something to consider. Curcuma longa, in combination with 5mg of melatonin (our body’s own natural hormone that regulates our sleep cycles) will help alleviate occasional discomfort and sleeplessness.

    1. Vectomega Omega-3 Plus Phospholipids & Peptides

    Many of us choose to supplement with Omega-3 fatty acids to support healthy hearts and immune systems. In addition, these supplements help support healthy skin, hair, nails, joints, and eyes.  There are so many good options today, but this product is easily one of our favorites. Created from North Atlantic Salmon, it is the only omega-3 bound to phospholipids and peptides, the building blocks of healthy cell membranes.

    1. Traumaplant Comfrey Cream

    Comfrey Cream has been used for years to help heal bruises, pulled muscles, fractures, sprains, strains, and osteoarthritis. In more recent years, comfrey has gotten a bad reputation due to a toxic component within it called, pyrrolizidine alkaloids, that can damage the liver. However, Terry Naturally’s Traumaplant Comfrey Cream has been carefully formulated WITHOUT the inclusion of this component, so that we can enjoy all the benefits of comfrey without the dangerous side effects.

    1. CuraMed 750mg Superior Absorption Curcumin

    Like the effervescent tablets, CuraMed is an incredible product for managing discomfort associated with inflammation; however, this product is in capsule form and is formulated at the 750mg strength to provide maximum effectiveness to those coping with more intense symptoms. We talk with countless customers each week who rave about this product and how it’s helped given them quality of life back!

     

  • A Lucky Shake for St. Patrick’s Day! (Hold the Polysorbate 80, Please!)

    A Lucky Shake for St. Patrick’s Day! (Hold the Polysorbate 80, Please!)

    It’s time for me to fess-up a bit here.

    I work in a health food store but haven’t always eaten healthy. When I was a kid, I used to look forward to seasonal holiday treats from fast food chains. My all-time favorite was when March would roll around. My mom would take my brother and I to our favorite fast food place for a St. Patrick’s Day-inspired shake we’d order off their seasonal menu. This was so cool because the shake was a lovely shade of bright green and tasted like sweet minty goodness.

    I carried this tradition into my teenage years with my friends and then into early adulthood. That is, until I woke up to how the food I was eating was effecting my health. Let me shed a little light on exactly what is in this green cup of “goodness”.  According to the nutritional facts for the shake listed on the company’s website, the shake includes the following ingredients:

    Phew… still with me? That is an awfully long list that leaves me with a few questions: Why is it called whipped “topping” and not whipped cream? And why does the cherry have a list of ingredients- isn’t it just a cherry? Also, do green sugar crystals grow out of the ground? Might I add that there isn’t actually any mint in this minty-tasting beverage?

    As if this wasn’t enough information to scare you away, check out the nutritional facts associated with a small and large shake:


    That’s why we created the Lucky Mint Chip Shake – available at both of our locations for a limited time. Our shake uses none of the above and is actually healthy and naturally energizing and detoxifying. Here’s OUR ingredients: At Basil Bandwagon, we think everyone should be able to enjoy a holiday treat without having to dowse themselves in artificial colorings, flavorings and 3 days-worth of sugar in one glass.

    Organic Banana

    Organic Spinach

    Spirulina

    Organic Mint Leaves/Extract

    Organic Coconut Milk

    Organic Cacao Nibs

     

    Come visit our café to enjoy this delicious shake today!

     

     

  • How to Make your own Immune Boosting Tonic

    How to Make your own Immune Boosting Tonic

    Jenna shows you how to throw together your own Immune Boosting Tonic full of virus-busting goodness!

    Here’s what you’ll need:

    • 1 medium onion, peeled and rough chopped
    • 1 head of garlic, peeled and rough chopped
    • 3 inch piece of fresh ginger, grated
    • 1 tablespoon dried echinacea root
    • Apple cider vinegar (organic with “the mother”)
    • Raw organic honey
    • 2 teaspoons ground cayenne pepper
    • cheese cloth (enough to cover the top of the jar with a couple layers)
    • A large glass container of some sort. We used a quart-sized mason jar.

     

    Step by Step Instructions

       

    1. Place onion, garlic, ginger and echinacea root in a mason jar.
    2. Add apple cider vinegar to cover the herbs.
    3. Cover with cheese cloth and screw on the band to hold it tight. (don’t use the lid portion- your tonic needs air!)
    4. Leave in the jar for 2-3 weeks, preferably in a sunny or slightly warm place.
    5. Strain and discard the herbs.
    6. Mix with equal parts raw honey and add cayenne powder.
    7. Store in the fridge and take 1 teaspoon as needed daily or whenever you start to feel run down.

     
    There is more you can do with this tonic: 

    • Immune Boosting Tonic is amazing alone- BUT there are some fun ways to use it:

    • Use it to make a quick Bloody Mary: add to a mixture of tomato juice spirit of you choice

    • It’s a super FLAVOR boost for soups and sauces. It’s the not-so-secret ingredient in my chicken soup and a fix-it for spaghetti sauce that needs a little kick.

    • Bone Broth to the MAX: add this to your bone broth!

     

  • Heart Health Favorites

    Heart Health Favorites

    February is Heart Health month! It’s a good idea to take care of your ticker, and there’s plenty of easy and tasty ways to do so.

    Oats

    That bowl of oatmeal you had for breakfast might be more powerful than you think. Oats contain beta-glucan, a potent soluble fiber with blood sugar regulating benefits. Oats are also high in Vitamin E, which has long been found to be a protective vitamin for the heart.

    Lentils

    Beans, beans, they’re good for your heart, the more you eat them, well….. you know the rest. There is actually much science behind this popular rhyme. Lentils are an excellent source of soluble fiber, which helps keep your arteries clean, reducing your risk of heart disease and stroke. Lentils are also excellent sources of magnesium and folate – two big promoters of heart health. Magnesium in particular improves blood flow, oxygen and nutrient distribution within your body.

     

    Dark Chocolate

    Cocoa beans – from which dark chocolate is created – are rich in a class of plant nutrients called flavonoids. Flavonoids help protect the body from environmental toxins and damage. Flavanols are the main type of flavonoids found in cocoa. Research has shown flavanols to promote healthy blood pressure, improve blood flow and manage healthy blood clotting function.

    Garlic

    Garlic possesses a myriad of health benefits, but one of the most significant is its positive effects on heart health. It serves as a preventative agent against many different conditions: hypertension, diabetes, thrombosis, etc. For heart health, garlic consumption helps reverse plaque build up in arteries. Sure, you may need some gum afterwards, but loading up on this powerhouse is SMART!

     

    Avocado


    Avocados are not only an excellent source of protein and fat, but a heart-healthy superfood. Cholesterol, trans fat and sodium free, avocados are one of the few whole foods that are an excellent source of monounsaturated fat. For this reason, they may help lower your blood cholesterol level when consumed in place of saturated fat.

    Berries

    Blackberries, blueberries, and strawberries are not just delicious snacks or toppings on your favorite cereal, oatmeal or yogurt. They are an excellent source of polyphenols, which are associated with improved heart health. Polyphenols protect cells and body chemicals against damage caused by free radicals.

     

    Pomegranate

    These beautiful fruits contain juicy seeds that are as nutrient-dense as they are delicious. The juice is a rich source of polyphenols, which double as antioxidants, protecting our cells from damage and lowering inflammation in our bodies. The juice is also believed to protect LDL (bad) cholesterol from damaging our arterial walls.

     

    Sardines

    These little guys are PACKED with heart-happy fats and nutrients. Sardine are full the omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA, which have been found to lower triglycerides and cholesterol levels.

    Flaxseed


    These tiny seeds pack a ton of punch when it comes to heart health. A mere teaspoon of the seeds contains nearly 2 grams of heart-healthy Omega-3 essential fatty acids. Flax seeds are also one of the best sources of plant-based foods for lignan’s, which have strong antioxidant qualities, helping support heart health.