In the world of culinary innovation, Camilla Marcus stands as a beacon of conscious cooking, and at the heart of her ethos lies West~Bourne, a testament to her commitment to quality, sustainability, and flavor.
Join us as we shine a spotlight on Camilla Marcus, the driving force behind West~Bourne, and delve into the story behind this culinary gem.
Camilla, you have accomplished so much throughout your career so far. Let’s start with west~bourne. What led you to create this zero-waste culinary company?
I wanted to create craveable, sustainable products that become pantry staples to the fast growing climate-conscious community. Bringing mindfulness to how you can eat in a way that’s delicious, inspiring, and approachable in your daily life while safeguarding our planet.
Growing up in Los Angeles, living mindful to impact not imprint was a regular way of life, from farmers markets to plant based cooking to composting. I was raised with a deep appreciation for how food plays such a significant role in shaping our environment
We know that regenerative agriculture plays a large role in climate change which is a large focus for West Bourne. How do you hope to empower customers to cure the climate crisis through food?
Food consumption and food waste account for a huge amount of carbon emissions, and we now know undeniably that regenerative agriculture can solve the climate crisis by decarbonizing our soil. Our products are sourced regeneratively and made with the latest sustainable technologies and materials to ultimately drive demand back into this emerging system that we believe will be the way forward for how our food is made.
What differentiates the west~bourne Avocado Oils?
Our oils are 100% pure, pressed and poured from organic avocados. We recently learned that 89% of avocado oil is either fake – meaning it’s cut with cheap vegetable or other inflammatory oils – or rancid, so sharing our products with our community has become more important to us than ever.
What is your unique approach to cooking?
My goal is to really use every part of the item I’m cooking, from seed to stem. My dishes are all vegetable forward and simple yet delicious. I like to make cooking feel approachable and fun – simple steps like eating more vegetables, shopping from your local farmers markets, recycling and composting your scraps, or even incorporating recipes that repurpose your food scraps in new ways.
We love your garden in your LA home, what are you currently growing?
Leeks, purple garlic, little gems, pink blueberries, rhubarb, and we just started growing a yuzu tree and a calamansi tree.
]]>
WRITE A REVIEW AND RECEIVE OUR PRICIEST PRODUCT!
We will be selecting 3 lucky winners! Leave a review anytime between now and 3/31 to enter for a chance to win our 212ml REFRESH mist, valued at $120. Increase your chances by leaving more reviews! Winner will be contacted via email. Thank you for participating.
HOW TO REVIEW?
You will receive an email prompt to write a review after every purchase, but you don't have to wait for this request. You can leave a review anytime via the website. At the bottom of every product page, you will find a review section. Look for the button that says 'Write a review', located at the top right corner of the reviews. In the mobile view, click the three lines, then 'write a review'.
A FEW RECENT REVIEWS THAT MADE OUR DAY
"My temperamental skin will turn her nose up at the cleanest and loveliest of skin care products. BALACE Face Oil has outlasted them all! I can’t go to bed without it!" - Lauren
"I love REPLENISH oil! I've used others in the past that feel like they sit on top oof my skin, but this one absorbs beautifully. It feels so light and fresh. I use it in my hair, on my face and body. My husband loves using it too." - Elizabeth R.
"I am a huge fan of the brand and reached out to them when I started to have a rash/eczema under my eyes. I had tried many natural products for a few weeks before trying NURTURE. Within one week, my under eyes were feeling better and three weeks later the rashes were gone! So thankful for their recommendation to specifically try this product."- Caitlin A.
"REFRESH is the perfect skincare product. It has every vitamin your skin needs in an easy package. I love that I can just mist the vitamins onto my skin like a toner, but it's hydrating like a serum. And I LOVE that every ingredient is green on the safety ingredient checker websites. There are zero dirty ingredients in this product. Idk how they did it, but it's perfect. AND my skin looks and feels amazing. I look like I'm still in my 20s." - Kelly N.
"PROTECT is the best sunblock! I have tried MANY other nontoxic brands and they are all chalky and have a weird texture. This version feels like it’s nourishing my skin and rubs in well. Love that my family can feel safe wearing it. I am going to share it with the pregnant women I care for a midwife too as a wonderful and safe product to use. I feel like I got on the LINNE bandwagon too late and I regret it now." - Lucy C.
Write a review on your product's favorite page.
]]>Exquisite essential oils have always been a staple in the LINNÉ ingredient library. However, with a surge in their usage among untrained hobbyists (especially during peak pandemic), they have become both misused and misunderstood. At LINNÉ we are proponents of these potent compounds, but as with all ingredients, critical evaluation of provenance and dosage are essential to their efficacy and safety. In this journal entry we are we will address the benefits of essential oils, their terpene constituents and our updated labeling. Stay in the loop as we dive deeper into this topic.
WHAT ARE ESSENTIAL OILS
Essential oils are concentrated volatile compounds that plants produce as part of their own defense mechanisms. These bioavailable medicinal constituents can be captured through methods such as steam distillation, CO2 extraction, cold-press extraction, maceration, and other infusion methods like enfleurage. While they can also be extracted through chemical processes, we have banned this method.
BENEFITS OF ESSENTIAL OILS
Antioxidant Protection | Anti-Inflammatory Properties | Antibacterial and Antifungal Action | Cellular Regeneration | Improved Circulation | Cellular Oxygenation | Psychological Benefits
ARE ALL ESSENTIAL OILS EQUAL?
When it comes to essential oils, sourcing and dosage truly matter.
Quality Matters: The source and quality of essential oils are crucial for their effectiveness and safety. Oils sourced from reputable, organic sources are free from pesticides, contaminants and potential adulteration.
Purity and Dilution: Essential oils are highly concentrated, so they should always be diluted before application to the skin. Using too much or undiluted oils can lead to irritation or sensitization.
Composition is Crucial: It is critical not only to have the correct dosage for each individual ingredient but also for them to work in harmony together. All of our unique formulas have been meticulously vetted by third-party chemists.
WHAT ARE TERPENES?
You may now see ingredients like geraniol and linalool listed at the bottom of our ingredient lists. In LINNÉ formulas, these are not additives but rather aromatic compounds naturally present in the essential oils we use. Rest assured, nothing has changed about the formulas; we are simply increasing our transparency and complying with EU, UK, and CA regulations.
Despite misconceptions, terpenes are safe and beneficial for skincare when used in appropriate dosage. Beyond skincare qualities, they contribute to the overall well-being and mood-enhancing properties of our products.
Synthetic terpenes (not found in LINNÉ products) may be more suitable for certain applications where consistency, cost-effectiveness, and specific effects are desired, but they lack the richness and safety of our organic oils.
CONCLUSION
In conclusion, essential oils offer a natural and holistic approach to skincare, providing a wealth of benefits for the skin and overall well-being. With careful sourcing, proper dilution, and an understanding of terpenes, these botanical extracts can be powerful allies in achieving healthy, radiant skin.
]]>Leanne, we drool over your recipes. What led you to become a certified nutritionist and holistic health coach?
For the majority of my adult life, I was a hairstylist and salon owner. After moving from England to America during my teens I ended up planting roots in Los Angeles working in some of the top hair salons in the city. I ended up opening my own salon with my then partner, Andy. We opened the Andy Lecompte Salon in 2005. While running the salon and working as a hairstylist brought me immense joy, it could also be incredibly draining. My deep-rooted love for farmers' markets and the therapeutic nature of cooking for myself and my family inspired me to enroll in culinary school. As I deepened my knowledge around cooking and honed my skills my passion for health and wellness continued to grow. This led me to pursue further education at the Institute for Integrative Nutrition. Becoming a holistic health coach profoundly transformed not only my self-care routine but also how I engage with and support those around me. Though my schedule doesn't allow me to work extensively with clients, I am always eager to assist and share my knowledge with friends and acquaintances.
What inspires your recipes?
My recipes typically spring from my own cravings and the desire to put my unique spin on dishes I love. I am Inspired when I dine at restaurants, scrolling Instagram is a fantastic source of inspiration. I have many wonderful friends who are chefs. They are always inspiring and happy to talk to me about cooking and how to improve my skills. I always try to develop my recipes to be both clean and healthy. I firmly believe "you are what you eat," I am blessed to live in Los Angeles where there is an abundance of the freshest ingredients, from all the local farmers' markets that the city has to offer. Whole foods, fresh fruits, and vegetables are the cornerstones of my cooking.
What is your kitchen must-have?
Without a doubt, a really good knife is the single most indispensable tool in my kitchen.
Our founder Jenna has been taking Udea Wellness supplements consistently which is your latest wellness venture. What inspired you to start the brand?
The development of UDEA Wellness has been a passionate journey for my partner, Natalie Stevenson, and me. Drawing from two decades of experience working with women in the beauty industry, I observed a common thread—a tendency for women to prioritize everything else in their lives, often at the expense of their own well-being. They frequently engaged in negative self-talk, harboring insecurities about their bodies and self-worth. This observation spurred us to create a product that would provide women with a moment of self-care—a chance to put themselves first. Encouraging small daily rituals, such as taking a vitamin, practicing a brief meditation, or opting for water over sugary drinks, serves as a powerful reminder of self-worth. The way you begin your day sets the tone for the rest, and by investing in self-care, you can better extend love and support to others.
Why did you decide to focus on mood and hair?
Before finalizing The Mood Pill and The Hair Pill, we conducted extensive research and testing. We recognized that achieving the right mood is crucial for a fulfilling day, and after working with clients in the salon for so many years I know that everyone wants their best hair day to be every day!
Where does the name Udea come from?
UDEA draws its name from the goddess of vitality. Living a life filled with vitality adds a profound sense of purpose and meaning to one's actions.
What inspired the two supplements The Mood Pills and The Hair Pills?
The Mood Pill was developed with the knowledge that emotional well-being and mood have a significant impact on the overall quality of life. Emotional states can influence everything from daily productivity to long-term health. Therefore, the goal was to provide a natural and holistic solution to support and stabilize one's mood.
The Hair Pill focuses on nourishing the body from within. We wanted to create something that has a direct and positive impact on the health and appearance of peoples hair. These supplements are designed to provide essential nutrients and support for hair growth and strength, addressing common concerns related to hair health, such as thinning, breakage, and dullness.
What’s next for the brand?
We are thrilled about the exciting plans we have in store for the brand's expansion. Currently, we're in the testing and development phase for our third product, which promises to be a game-changer. The upcoming year holds so many exciting things, and we're deeply grateful for the support and generosity of those who have supported us on this journey.
While internal health is important for skin health, we of course can’t forget about skincare. What is your go-to LINNÉ product?
I am a huge fan of LINNÉ products, particularly the renew face serum and sunblock.
What is one piece of wellness advice you want to leave our community with?
Hydration is the key to revitalization, I make it a point to drink half a gallon of water daily, often supplemented with electrolytes. I believe that sleep is the foundation for a good day. My kitchen tip is that water can breathe new life into your produce. I keep my carrots and radishes submerged in water in the fridge. If lettuce is getting limp and sad, submerge it in water and place it in the fridge, it will be as good as new in a few hours. Just be sure to change the water every few days.
What is your go-to LINNÉ product(s)?
The RENEW face serum
Courtney, what led you to become a holistic health coach?
In 2017 I was diagnosed with PCOS after going off of birth control. My doctor at the time told me that in order to manage my symptoms I should go back on the pill, but it was my third autoimmune diagnosis in just a few short years and starting on meds again felt like I would just be sweeping a larger problem under the rug. I started doing my own research on how to use diet and lifestyle as a pathway towards healing and became obsessed. I decided I wanted to help other people going through similar situations and eventually went back to school to become an accredited integrative nutrition health coach.
What does it mean to have a holistic and individual approach to health and wellness?
A holistic approach toward health means looking at the whole pie instead of one piece when it comes to feeling good - so, we’re not only talking about what’s on your plate, but what your day to day is like, too. Are you sleeping? How are your stress levels? Are you able to spend time with the people you love and do the things that fuel you? All of this impacts your health. The individuality piece comes in because, of course, everyone’s answers to these questions will be different.
That being said, I hate when wellness starts to feel like another thing you need to do because we’re all busy and truthfully it’s a privilege to consider these aspects a lot of the time! Whenever I’m working with a client, it’s important to me that our strategies be grounded in reality. I, for one, have a four and a half month old baby and my sleep is definitely not what it used to be! Do your best to meet yourself where you are.
What does it mean to naturally balance one’s hormones and why is it important for women?
Naturally balancing your hormones means getting to the root cause of your symptoms and using diet and lifestyle to treat them rather than taking medication. It’s especially important for women because, for one, women are 80% more likely to develop an autoimmune disease than men are, therefore nervous system regulation is a must. Women also have a menstrual cycle which impacts everything from our energy levels to our metabolism. When it comes to our hormones, we want homeostasis so that all of our body’s systems can function properly. While medication can help with symptom management due to a hormonal imbalance, most of the time it doesn’t actually address what’s causing the issue which can lead to greater problems down the line.
That being said, it’s not always so black and white and I think sometimes you have to pick your battles here. For instance, I didn’t want to go back on the pill to treat my PCOS, but I do take daily thyroid medication for Hashimotos.
What markers should someone look for that their hormones are off balance?
Period pain, a missing or irregular period, fatigue, unwanted hair growth, unexplained weight gain (or weight loss), cystic ovaries or breasts, digestive issues, anxiety - all of these can be indicators that your hormones need some help.
How does your blood sugar correlate with your hormone health?
The blood sugar spikes and dips we experience throughout the day in response to our food and stressors can be incredibly disruptive to hormone health. Your body releases the hormone insulin in order to move sugar out of the blood stream and into your cells to be used for energy. However, if you start experiencing too many spikes and dips you run the risk of becoming insulin resistant and that’s when you can run into trouble. Insulin resistance can inhibit ovulation and contribute to conditions like PCOS and estrogen dominance so you can see why blood sugar and hormone regulation go hand in hand.
What is your favorite blood sugar, hormone balancing recipe?
A good rule of thumb to making a hormone balancing meal is to make sure you have a protein, healthy fat and fiber on your plate. I’ve really been loving my Turmeric Chicken Burger Salad Bowl with Carrot Tahini Dressing recently. It’s anti-inflammatory, satisfying and easy to whip up for lunch or dinner. Feel free to use whatever veggies and lettuce you like for the salad - the below is what I had on hand.
Turmeric Chicken Burger Salad Bowl (Serves 2)
Turmeric Chicken Burger Ingredients:
1 lb ground chicken (or ground turkey)
1 garlic clove smashed and chopped (or grated with a microplane)
1 ½ TBSP fish sauce
1-2 tsp grated ginger
1 ½ tsp ground turmeric
Carrot Tahini Dressing Ingredients:
1 medium carrot, sliced
3 TBSP filtered water
2 TBSP tahini
1 TBSP olive oil
½ TBSP lemon juice
2 tsp coconut aminos
½ medium garlic clove
Pink salt to taste
Salad Ingredients:
½ persian cucumber, thinly sliced (use a mandolin if you have)
½ avocado, sliced
½ cup sugar snap peas, trimmed and halved
2 handfuls butter lettuce
2 handfuls little gems
Black sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
To make the burgers, mix all ingredients together with your hands in a large bowl until well incorporated. Shape into 4 equal patties (the mixture will be sticky and wet, that’s ok) and set on a plate. Heat a grill pan or nonstick pan over medium high heat. Cook the burgers for 5 minutes on each side or until cooked through.
While the burgers are cooking, assemble your salad ingredients. Grab two large bowls and put one handful of little gems and one handful of butter lettuce in each. Top equally with the cucumber, avocado and sugar snap peas. Once the burgers have finished cooking, remove from the pan and set aside to cool for a few minutes.
While the burgers cool, make the salad dressing by adding all the ingredients to a high speed blender and blitzing until smooth. Add one chicken patty to each salad bowl (you’ll have two extra for lunch or dinner the next day) and top with the dressing and sesame seeds if using.
What foods should all women incorporate into their diet?
High-quality protein like grass-fed beef or wild-caught salmon, healthy fats like nuts, seeds and avocado and dark, leafy greens are where I would start. Protein and healthy fats are vital to hormone synthesis and dark, leafy greens like spinach, chard, kale etc. are especially nutrient-dense. Blueberries are great because they’re full of antioxidants and studies show they may help regulate blood sugar. Cruciferous veggies like cauliflower and broccoli can help the body detox excess estrogen, too.
What is one of the biggest hormone misconceptions?
That if you have PCOS you’re automatically going to struggle with fertility. Every body is different, of course, and everyone’s journey is unique, but a PCOS diagnosis does not always mean you won’t be able to get pregnant when you want to.
How has your approach to skincare changed since having a baby?
To be honest it hasn’t changed all that much! I made the switch to more natural skincare after I was diagnosed with PCOS years ago so I felt like I was in a pretty good place product-wise when I got pregnant. The only thing I became more mindful about was my sunscreen (I switched to mineral-based) and products containing essential oils just because babies have such sensitive skin. The simpler the product is, the better it is in my mind.
What is your go-to LINNÉ product(s)?
I’m absolutely obsessed with the Replenish Everywhere Oil. It feels like such a treat to slather it on after a shower or bath and my skin stays hydrated all day long.
]]>
Salmon is a powerhouse food providing high amounts of Omega 3 fatty acids helpful for hormone balance, inflammation, and brain health. It's also a great source of protein which keeps your blood sugar balanced leading to more sustained energy levels, and keeping you feeling full for longer. Salmon is also a good food source of Vitamin D, which is an essential nutrient for hormone production.
Brussels sprouts have nutrients like Vitamin C and E which are antioxidants, and copper which all help support collagen production, keeping your skin firm and healthy!
HONEY LEMON SALMON
For the salmon (serves 2):
2 (6oz.) salmon filets
2 Tbsp. lemon juice
2 Tbsp. parsley, roughly chopped
4 tsp. honey
2 cloves garlic, finely grated
salt and pepper to taste
For the Brussels sprouts:
8 oz. Brussels sprouts, shredded
1 shallot, thinly sliced
2 Tbsp. toasted pine nuts
1 Tbsp. lemon juice
salt and pepper to taste
Serving suggestion: Brown rice or quinoa
Instructions:
Preheat oven to 400°F. Place salmon skin side down in a foil lined baking dish. Season salmon with salt and pepper to taste.
In a small bowl, whisk lemon juice, parsley, 2 teaspoons of honey, and garlic until combined. Spoon over the salmon and bake for 10 minutes. Brush additional 2 teaspoons of honey over salmon and bake for 5-8 more minutes. or until desired doneness is reached.
While the salmon is baking, make the Brussels sprouts. In a pan over high heat, sauté the shallot in 1 teaspoon of olive oil for 1-2 minutes or until softened. Add the shaved Brussels sprouts and cook for 2-3 more minutes, or until tender. With the heat off, add the pine nuts and lemon juice. Season to taste.
optional: Serve alongside a grain such as brown rice, quinoa, or farro
]]>
We love the sun and advocate for time outdoors. It is true that our skin can be vulnerable to sunburn, and repeated sunburns can cause visible damage. Yet, our interaction with the sun need not be "all or none!". We can enjoy a healthy and happy relationship with the sun.
Our bodies are covered with thousands of vitamin D receptors designed to attract the sun’s rays. Our cells have a DNA code and photons that require energy and information from the sun. We have co-evolved with the sun and it is key to our nourishment, biological clock, and hormonal regulation.
Our skin’s exposure to the sun produces two types of sulfur: cholesterol sulfate and vitamin D3 sulfate. Sulfur and cholesterol protect our DNA from the radiation damage that contributes to cancer. You can also make all the glutathione you need for the day in just a few minutes of sun to skin contact. Glutathione regulates melanin synthesis, neutralizes free radicals and reactive oxygen species, and is required for DNA repair. It also contributes to protein production. Glutathione supplements are widely available, but laboratory studies have concluded that dietary glutathione has low bioavailability.
The best time of day for sunning is morning to solar-noon. Your tolerance for sun depends on the condition of your skin, your natural skin pigmentation, and your diet. Fortunately sun-ripened produce is abundant in summer, just when we need it most. Fill your diet with colorful fruits and vegetables to supply your body with free-radical scavenging antioxidants. For best practices use PROTECT on your face, neck and decollete while you expose your torso and limbs to the nourishing rays.
REPLENISH and NURTURE share one of our most favorite ingredients, cold-pressed passion fruit oil, but otherwise they are unique products with distinctive functions.
Use REPLENISH as a pre-cleansing oil to break down makeup; on the scalp to loosen product build up and nourish the hair follicle; as a shaving oil for the smoothest shave; warmed for abhyanga massage; on the belly to promote skin elasticity during pregnancy; and on the cuticles to keep nails healthy and fortified.
Use NURTURE as a final facial skincare step to seal in moisture and support barrier protection; on dry, chapped lips, hands and feet throughout the day and especially before bed; on tender nipples while nursing; and on baby’s bums to prevent diaper rash.
The best way to manage discoloration and acne scars is to prevent them in the first place by using our CLARIFYING protocol.
Fortunately, the very same products in this protocol will also help with scarring and discoloration.
Exfoliation is a key to promoting cellular turnover and will greatly improve surface scarring and discoloration. Using SCRUB 1-2x a week will promote cell regeneration, even skin tone and improve the skin’s texture.
Salicylic acid, provided by white willow bark, will further clear pores, reduce swelling and redness, and exfoliate the skin. You will find pregnancy safe doses of salicylic acid in both REFRESH and RENEW.
The potato starch in SCRUB and PURIFY will additionally promote brightening and the prevention of blemishes due to the high content of potassium.
The only product you won't find in our CLARIFYING kit that is key to scar and discoloration prevention is our REPAIR face oil.
While a richer oil, REPAIR is appropriate for blemish-prone skin and is an important step in the healing phase. Apply proactively as blemishes heal, alternating nightly with your BALANCE oil.
SMOOTH is a miracle product. We know this from the countless testimonials we've received from LINNÉ loyalists who have shared their stories. From traumatic road rash, to eczema, psoriasis, bug bites, razor burn, dermatitis and irritation of unknown origin, SMOOTH comforts the skin when nothing else can.
This stuff is hardworking on chapped, dry skin but also is appropriate for blemish prone skin thanks to a cocktail of nourishing, cleansing, circulation boosting, astringent and anti-inflammatory ingredients.
We love using it on our faces, bodies, hands, feet and hair. It's best used on barely damp skin right of the shower or bath but can be applied any time of day for radiant glow and a whisper of our signature scent that sends soothing signals to our olfactory system.
A part of our founding collection, SMOOTH is a game-changing classic, that's here to stay. New to SMOOTH? Discover this hero today and leave your questions below!
RENEW Face Serum gets its vibrant color from a variety of naturally pigmented botanicals and actives.
Carrot cells and Co-enzyme Q10 contribute orange-hued polyphenols rich in vitamin C, beta carotene, and ubiquinone.
Tomato extract and algae oleoresin create the signature red color, and bolster RENEW with lycopene and astaxanthin — superior UV protectors.
Hibiscus flowers and mountain pepper berry extract lend their purple tones and the benefits of anthocyanins.
From time to time the batch color of RENEW may shift given the unadulterated quality of our ingredients. Despite these changes in appearance, each ingredient lot is accompanied by a certificate of analysis demonstrating a consistency in active delivery — allowing us to delivery a consistent result while letting nature's true colors to shine.
REFRESH Mineral Mist is a multivitamin for the skin, supplying our largest organ with essential minerals for healthy cellular function.
Magnesium, sourced from the gemstone olivine, is responsible for over 300 enzymatic processes in the body including the formation of ATP - a cell’s energy source.
Magnesium is indispensable to healthy skin tissue growth, as it acts as a natural cellular protectant, facilitates safe and effective detoxification, provides anti-inflammatory activity, and combats damage from harmful free radicals by activating the enzymes that regulate DNA replication and repair. Magnesium is better absorbed trans-dermally than via the gut, so we love misting REFRESH head to toe.
Zinc, sourced from the gemstone smithsonite, is vital to maintaining skin health. It works within the body as an antioxidant to support the skin’s dietary defense squad, thereby preventing against damage from free radicals and safeguarding the skin’s lipids and collagen-producing cells against environmental damage from UV light exposure, harmful toxins and pollutants, and other skin-aging factors.
Copper, sourced from the gemstone malachite. Copper is essential to the body’s formation of collagen and elastin, which work to maintain the skin’s strength and to promote the production of hyaluronic acid. Copper is also known for its powerful antibacterial, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, cicatrizant, and antifungal properties.
The gemstones themselves also have metaphysical properties, and are said to clear negativity, release fear, reduce anxiety and promote personal growth.
According to a study most retinol sold in the United States is dead on arrival due to the instability of this ingredient. Products that do maintain potency, such as tretnoin, can cause irritation.
Want something you can use daily, morning and night, to gently yet effectively promote healthy cellular turnover?
We made it for you and it’s called RENEW! This antioxidant-rich serum incorporates a cocktail of ingredients that collectively produce a retinol-like effect, but without photosensitivity, skin-thinning, flaking or barrier compromise.
Get glowy, hydrated, plump, nourished and elastic skin with RENEW - the superior serum sans side effects.
There are many types of hyaluronic acid available to formulators. The molecule size and weight allows HA to perform in a variety of different ways.
Heavy and medium weight HA are used to form a layer of protective film on the skin. This layer prevents moisture from escaping and pollution from entering. They remain on the surface of the skin but are nevertheless able to soften the skin cuticle and reduce skin roughness. Heavier HA acts as a gelling agent, helping to thicken and stabilize emulsions.
Low weight HA, conversely is able to penetrate the skin to nourish and hydrate deeply. Hyaluronic acid that is less than 10 daltons in size can also scavenge free radicals, stimulate cell growth and repair skin damage.
Because we develop our own formulas we table to be highly selective about not only the weight of our HA, but also our supplier. After evaluating countless sources we secured a 100% pure vegan HA, created through fermentation. This HA carries a heavy price tag as compared to others on the market, but the results of extensive clinical studies, clearly demonstrate it’s remarkable value.
Found in the products included in our hyaluronic collection: REFRESH Mineral Mist, RENEW Face Serum, REVIVE Eye Emulsion, PROTECT Barrier Cream with SPF.
Ali, tell us about yourself. What led you to become an intuitive and quantum healer, astrologer, and mentor?
Amanda Chase has been a friend of LINNÉ, and our founder Jenna, for over 6 years. One of their first dates was when Amanda came over to sample Jenna's super smoothie, which was then featured in The Moment, a publication by Saie Beauty founder, Laney Crowell. Needless to say Amanda is a connector and conscious content creator. We have loved watching Amanda's evotion and witnessing the brands she has helped shape. She's worked with unbelievable creators from Erica Chidi to Lacy Anne Phillips of To Be Magnetic, and even Lisa Levitt Gainsley, the Founder of The Lymphatic Message, our current giveaway partner! We are fortunate to have this opportunity to feature Amanda in today's spotlight, and learn more about conscious consulting from a blossoming pro!
Amanda, it is so lovely to have you on the LINNÉ spotlight feature! Tell us about yourself, what led you to creating ōSHen?
Thank you so much for having me! I’ve been a fan-girl of LINNÉ & Jenna ever since falling in love with them both in 2016. Since the age of 15, I’ve been on a mission to create content in the world that made a positive impact on the lives of others. I started my career working in the fashion industry for print magazines, creative agencies, and digital creative studios. In 2016, I transitioned into working in the holistic wellness industry and offering content creation services to help grow and scale their brands through content that reflected their essence. After two years of working with my dream clients, I decided to make my freelance passion into a business and then birthed ōSHen (the phonetics of ocean). ōSHen is a content creation studio for visionary brands to make something of substance.
How do you help brands and individuals in the wellness space take their businesses to the next step?
The most valuable way in which I support holistic wellness brands and conscious entrepreneurs take their business to the next chapter is firstly, by believing in their big dream vision for their brand. I believe we all are here for a dharmic reason and that our work and creations are the catalysts to live out our dharma. ōSHen is the place where people come to bring their heart-centered, dharmic passions to reality in a way that serves the founder, the collective, and their audience in a positive way. Specifically, I help my clients in three ways: The Tide, a community space for conscious creators to come together to be seen, heard, and valued; Conscious Consulting, a 3-month creative strategy and business development consulting package to help brands create the business they are meant to create in the world by providing them with the essentials to making their passion a business; and lastly, E-Course Creation, a 6-month package to help leading professionals in their market to create a foundational course that helps them grow and scale their business from 1:1 services to reaching the masses.
What is one piece of advice you have for brands or influencers looking to up level their content creation?
My greatest tip of advice for brands, creators, and influencers seeking to up-level their content creation is to actually look more inward. Everything in your life (the good, the bad, the ugly) have all shaped you into the person you are today and because of all of these seemingly unconnected aspects of self has actually crafted you into the perfect person to be creating the business and content of your desires. The more you lean into the intricacies of what shaped you, influenced you, makes you happy, and brings you a sense of success… that is where I recommend you lean more into. It’s great to look externally for inspiration but the ōSHen approach is one that comes from igniting the already inner flame with you to bring you the joy, happiness, and success you desire through creating content. To learn more about how to do this, I recommend you check out the Brand Foundations workshop to learn how to do this for yourself.
How can a brand maintain inner authenticity and outer expression while keeping up with the ever evolving wellness trends?
The most beautiful aspects of brands are those who know who they are. The key to creating content that’s aligned with your inner authenticity and outer expression with the ever-evolving trends is to be discerning as to if the trend reflects your brand's values. It’s much more inspiring to see a brand engage and create content that the person/brand thrives in as opposed to trying to do what everyone else is doing as a way to stay relevant or trendy. To understand your brand values, I recommend doing the Brand Foundations workshop and then the The Essence of You workshop to help you creatively express your brand's essence into the world. Both of these workshops together can help you start to understand and articulate the language of creating content that’s a reflection of your brand's essence.
Tell us about your Half The Story podcast? What can our community members expect to learn from listening?
Half the Story podcast is a 8-episode series I created to share with the world the other half of my personal story and journey as to how I became the creator I am today. I created this when I realized that I wasn’t fully showing up and owning aspects of myself that are ultimately the things that differentiate me from other content creators out there. The beauty of this is two fold: on one aspect I was able to identify my value proposition and clearly understand how my life shaped me to being the perfect combination of services to be the Founder of ōSHen, and then on the other hand, my clients and the rest of the world is truly seeing me for me – and they are choosing to work with me because they resonate with who I am and the services I provide to the world because they align with their specific values and ethos within their own business. If you’re wondering why people don’t understand you, this is a great podcast to listen to as you start to dissect the aspects of yourself that shaped you. This podcast also pairs with the Brand Foundations workshop and helping you write your Bio, which is a fundamental part of the workshop and journey to discovering one's creative essence.
We are so excited for you and the launch of Substance Magazine launching in 2023. Can you give us the inside scoop as to what we will see in the magazine?
Thank you so much! I am truly so excited to share it to the world and bring this to those who need it the most. Substance Magazine has been a dream of mine since I was 15 years old – to create a magazine that would change the lives of creatives and provide them substantial content that would inspire them to pursue their passions. It’s a bi-annual print publication featuring one location around the world in each issue, and specifically discussing the aspects of the land (earth, nature, water, people, food, culture, style, rituals, tools, and creators) that influence the creations on that land. And, then the second half of the magazine is a collection of teachings from the studio and from other conscious creators to help aspiring creators on their journey to living their creative dreams and pursuits. It’s the most intentional project I’ve ever created in my entire life and it’s truly an honor to facilitate the creation of it alongside my team. The first issue is slated to be out in a few months – just in time for the Summer Equinox.
What daily practice can our community members incorporate into their routine to help them create a "life of substance"?
Living a life of substance is different for everyone. The most important aspect of living a life of substance is taking inventory of the things in your life that you’ve outgrown and no longer resonate with for one reason or another – it could be that something reminds you of someone or the vibe of the object around you no longer fits with who you are today. I think so many people are afraid of change, evolution that we often stay stuck and settle for things and people in our lives because but, the number one tip of advice I have to start identifying what your life of substance looks and feels like is taking inventory and removing anything that no longer serves you or where you’re heading. I trust that you will start to shift a lot of things in your life when you do this – you’re essentially clearing that energy to make space for more of what you want. And, of course, if you are visual like I am, making a pinterest board of your dream life could be a great exercise to understanding your life of substance today. Start by asking yourself when you make a Pinterest board – what does my dream life look and feel like? And, have fun!
]]>I am a textile artist based in California, forging new terrain within the art of handweaving. In an effort to provide an antidote to our over-digitized world and to champion tradition within a contemporary palette, I am working to transform a practice previously thought of as a children’s activity. My handweaving work on square metal hand looms is creating an important medium that has depth and presence for the 21st Century; pioneering new techniques, application of sustainable materials and development of pattern form to reinvent handloom-woven work for the modern age.
I practice handweaving as a form of embodied meditation. Making beautiful handwoven textiles helps me to tap into my inner stillness and creativity, and I teach others to do the same via my workshops; to slow down, engage the rhythms of the body, and access a state of wholeness and flow. I offer a unique approach to developing a clear mind and an open heart through “Weaving as Meditation”.
Several years ago I unearthed a forgotten item from my childhood; a simple 7 x 7 inch metal handloom. When I rediscovered weaving, I remembered something that we, as a culture, find easy to forget; that we can always access inner stillness and peace through simple, embodied practices.
How do you find weaving helps you tap into inner stillness, peace, and creativity?
When I focus my attention on the process of weaving I am able to eliminate other distractions. Slowing down and following the natural rhythm of my breath helps my whole body relax. When my hands are involved with the loops and the loom there is a further deepening of my attention to color, texture and pattern that nourish my creativity.
How do you incorporate weaving meditation into your daily routine?
Weaving is always part of my daily routine. After a morning of yoga or Pilates or hiking, then I weave. The wonderful thing about handweaving is that you can take it with you anywhere. The loom is small, portable and light, making it ideal for weaving out in nature, in small moments between jobs at home or while travelling.
What is your mission with your workshops?
My mission is to help others to slow down, to find peace, to connect with themselves and to explore their creative weaving voice. My workshops also allow me to build a community of like minded women who support and nurture each other in all aspects of their lives.
Where do you source the weaving material?
Harrisville Designs is my main source for cotton loops and then I seek out natural plant dyers to create specialty loops for my weavings. I am always on the lookout for new and unusual sources to add variety to my palette. I have a special section on my website of Curated Loops to make these available for my community and I also teach how to make loops from your loved socks to help give these fibers a second life and save them from landfill.
What inspires the patterns you create?
Nature inspires all my weavings! I also love to look at the colors used by painters like Richard Diebenkorn, Miton Avery and Morandi.
Where can our community members find your online classes and workshops?
My website www.katekilmurray.com or instagram @katekilmurray
]]>Allie, we are so delighted to feature you on the LINNÉ spotlight! Tell us about yourself, what led you to start Rooted Botanics?
Rooted Botanics is the synergy of ethnobotany, traditional craft and art. A business that not only sells clothing, but tells a story about the historic culture of natural dyes and the plants that are all around us. Rooted started with a yearning to create a lifestyle that could support a long term dream. It started with the idea of bringing new life to vintage clothing through plant dyes, but continues to evolve into so much more. Having so much passion for a craft that is rooted in so much history and culture has driven me to step into my role as not only an artist, but as a teacher as well. Through continuous learning, observation, and experimentation, my art has transformed into many mediums such as flower pressing, paint making from plants, dyeing with native plants, mushroom dyeing, and so much more!
Have you always been interested in botany and the natural world?
Yes! The flowers, trees, oceans & mountains are the epicenter of my world in which I revolve around. Choosing this path in plant dyes isn’t just because I loved the art of it, it’s because I get to work with the plants intimately every single day! This has inspired me to deepen my plant knowledge, therefore I’ve been keeping a field journal for the past year and a half which is full of pressed flowers and their scientific names, as well as a record of the season around me.
For those who are unfamiliar, can you tell us a bit more about the history of natural plant dyes?
Natural dyeing is the practice of applying color to textiles using only color found from the natural world - think flowers, barks, leaves, insects, and even mollusks! This is a craft that dates back thousands of years and has deep roots in indigenous cultures globally. Certain plants and color palettes were cultivated in regions where those plants and materials are found locally, and are often still cultivated in those same regions to this very day. It was only less than 200 years ago in the 1850’s when the emergence of synthetic dyes came about. There are many types of synthetic dyes in circulation, many of which are toxic to our health and our planet. Plant dyes are a much safer and more sustainable alternative for those who are able to apply these methods.
Have you always been interested in plant dyes?
I started exploring plant dyeing when I was in design school! I was starting my senior thesis, which involved designing and sewing a 6 pieces collection. I was in love with the idea of creating clothes but disturbed by the realities of harm the fashion industry has on the environment. This led me to research sustainable modelties in design & that is when I came across plant dyes! I fell in love with it immediately and spent the rest of the year playing with different color possibilities. Since then it has always had a place in my heart and eventually became the thing that I now devote my life to.
Where do you source and forage the plant dyes along with the garments you use?
Because so many of the tried-and-true dye plants are native to different countries all over the world, I’m obviously unable to forage or grow these plants ourselves. Long term, the goal as a business is to work directly with small farmers all over the world to source these materials rather than relying on a middle man. Until then, I’m working with Maiwa and Botanical colors, two companies I trust to source their products both ethically and sustainably.
In terms of foraging, I do have a beautiful flower garden that I primarily use for our beautiful bundle dyed garments. I’m also fortunate to live in a place that has an abundance of natural color in the way of leaves, flowers, barks, and plant dye’s favorite dye bug, cochineal!
Tell us about the process of naturally dying and flower pressing your garments?
There are quite a few steps in the natural dye process. I scour, mordant, and extract all of our dye materials myself. It’s a fun process filled with pots, powders, barks, stirring sticks, and lots of dedication and experimentation.
Flower pressing is one of my favorite methods of dyeing right now! I utilize a technique called bundle dyeing/eco-printing, which involves taking pressed flowers, stylistically arranging them on the mordanted garment, and rolling & steaming to press the flowers permanently on the fabric! The best part of the process is unrolling the piece and picking the flowers off to see the fine detail it left behind!
How do the seasons impact your current collections?
I work in tandem with the seasons and launch each collection on every Full or New Moon each month. This is a practice that helps keep me grounded during these seemingly always busy times. I am also working with the availability of seasonal materials now more than ever! The dye plants available in our local mountains are very dependent on what season we’re in. Fall is abundant with walnut leaves, acorns, and our more tannin heavy plants, while spring is full of flowers for dyeing and pressing. In the spring & summer I try to save as many flowers as possible so they can be used for the winter months ahead.
Beyond our plant-based skincare, what is one way you recommend our community members connect with plants and the natural world?
I think the best way to connect with the plants and natural world is to get out and enjoy her! Spend some time outside with your local flora and fauna. Get to know and enjoy the native plants growing in your home, and witness them in each season. Pay attention to the weather and life around you as the seasons come and go. Simply existing outside can be a beautiful practice in staying present as well as finding connection with the natural world.
What do you have in store for Rooted Botanics in 2023?
I am so excited for everything we have planned ahead, and everything that we have yet to know and plan. In 2023 we will have more workshops available both online and in person for people to learn this beautiful craft! We will also be expanding our color palette and materials we work with, as I am committed to learning and experimenting more with plants that don’t have as much readily available research and information. We’ll also be offering more plant dyed small goods and continue making our paints made from plants! The ideas are flowing and I am excited to keep creating and growing this little business of mine!
]]>Shana, tell us about yourself! What led you to create the Me-est Me Journal?
I built my career doing social media and marketing for fashion and wellness brands like Alo Yoga and Grayson. After a decade of working in corporate social, I was burnt out, so in February 2020 I quit my job to pursue events. My timing wasn’t great here because one month later, the pandemic hit and event roles were no longer on the table. Around the same time, I was in the midst of a divorce with my ex-husband, who was my partner for over a decade. Suddenly, the two things I identified with most—my career and my marriage—had totally shifted and I had to figure out what to do next. I decided to take myself on a major self discovery journey to figure out what I wanted for my life. During that time, I was seeing two different therapists, listening to all the Esther Perel, and journaling a ton. After sharing that it was my life motto to be the me-est me (to show up as the most authentic, most comfortable version of me in every situation and give you the space to show up that way too), a friend said "have you ever thought about doing some sort of programming around that?” I felt inspired to explore what programming might look like and revisited the tools that helped me reconnect with myself when I really needed them. I decided to create a journal using the tools that I used so I could support others who might be experiencing something similar. I’m proud to share that I launched the Me-est Me Journal in March 2021.
After working in digital throughout my career, I had to learn a whole new industry to create a physical product. It was a massive learning, but after doing that I now believe I can do anything. Launching Me-est Me gave me the confidence to trust my inner knowing, to lean into my me-est me, and to follow what feels aligned. My life has had a hard reset since 2019 and while it hasn’t been easy rebuilding, it’s been so rewarding. I moved from LA to Austin, TX, have a beautiful and fulfilling relationship with an incredible partner, and a part time job that aligns with my business and my me-est me.
What can our community members expect to find in the journal?
The Me-est Me Journal has 4 types of journal prompts focused on reflecting, exploring, and gathering while also giving you pages to take a “brain break” and pause. You’ll find original art throughout the journal by our designer Hanna Snyder as well as questions and affirmations to guide you throughout your journey.
Is there a prompt you find Me-est Me journalers resonate with most?
There’s a reflection prompt that asks you who you were a year ago vs today and I think that one always has the greatest impact. We really do grow so much in one year, so taking time to reflect on that growth can be incredibly illuminating. When I’m leading workshops, I ask the attendees to take a look back at their photos from a year ago. Seeing what you were wearing, what you were doing, and who you were spending time with creates a really clear picture of what the year ago-you looked like and how much you have truly grown.
Is there an exercise in the journal that stood out as a turning point for you in your self-refection journey?
There are two that go hand in hand that have been coming up a lot in the last few years. Those are “make a list of everything that raises your energy” and “make a list of everything that drains your energy”. Once I started paying attention to the things that raise my energy and the things that drain me, I could get closer to the things that make me feel good and draw strong boundaries around the things or people that drain me. This practice has consistently changed the game for me and how I live my life on a daily basis. I’m always checking in with myself and moving closer to the things that are aligned with this current version of me.
How often should one use the journal?
I designed the Me-est Me Journal to be a “choose your own adventure” journey, so people can use the journal in whichever way resonates for them. Some people buy the journal and do each page in the exact order they’re written until they’re done, and others will flip to a random page once a week and do whatever prompt they land on. I would recommend creating a consistent journaling practice to stay connected with yourself, whatever that may mean for you.
Beyond self-reflection what other types of prompts can one expect from the journal?
One of the prompts that was most impactful to me before I created the journal is all about acknowledging your value by collecting nice text messages, emails, testimonials, or anything that helps remind you of the effect you have had on others. A friend suggested I do this a few years back and now I have a running album of screenshotted texts and emails that make me feel good that I come back to anytime I’m having a down day.
Why do you think self-reflection is such an important form of self-care?
I learned that when you connect with yourself, your life starts to change - you get clear on what is aligned and what is not aligned, and can make small changes to move closer to alignment. Being your me-est me and identifying what it is you want for your life has the power to unlock incredible opportunities and can truly help you build the life you’ve been dreaming about.
For those who haven’t yet purchased the journal, what can our LINNÉ community members do daily to show up as their most authentic self?
I would recommend thinking about what your authentic future self looks like and then taking steps to connect and show up as that version of yourself. Consider who that future self is spending time with, what they’re wearing, how they spend their time and then start figuring out what steps you can take to move into that version of you. Being the me-est me just means showing up as the most comfortable version of yourself, so it’s all about doing those things that make you feel most comfortable and most you.
Where can our LINNÉ community members find the Me-est Me Journal?
You can shop the Me-est Me Journal at meestme.com or at any of our local stockists.
]]>Danielle, tell us about yourself. What led you to become an artist and start Canyon Ceramics Co?
Hi! I’m a Topanga based painter and ceramicist, originally from Baltimore. I spent a chunk of time in Charleston before landing here in Topanga, which is an awesome area right outside of LA. I have career background in Art Direction and Graphic Design, and after nearly a decade working behind the screen, I felt the need to express myself voice through my hands. Days spent on the computer had me craving physical work and I started taking ceramics classes in the evening which turned into quitting my job and focusing on my heart and my practice. Three years later, I have a home ceramics studio with my partner, called Canyon Ceramics Co. nestled up here in Topanaga Canyon.
In both ceramics and painting, I use a sustainable practice to bring an earthy essence to my pieces. My recent work explores themes of play, the balance of feminine and masculine energy, and curiosity of nature through the hands-on, patient process of natural materials.
What separates you from other artists?
I think as artists we are all different from each other just by being alive and expressing our uniqueness in the way that only we can. But at that same time we are all in a sort of tribe together as well, just by being artists.
My focus on sustainability and my effort to reduce my environmental impact separates me from some artists, but I'm hoping more artists become intrigued with a more sustainable practice and that it becomes much more common.
Living on Topanga, your environment must be a constant source of inspiration. Where do you seek your inspiration for both your paintings and ceramic pieces?
Oh yeah, the environment here has an endless influence on my work. For my newer work, some of the stones I made pigments from were found in my yard or the beaches and hikes nearby. So the colors of the work are a direct translation of the earth.
We also have a really beautiful garden, created by the previous owner who was a loving permaculturist. So the shapes of leaves of the milkweed, or the alien flowers of the passionfruit vine––these wild forms found in nature all give me inspiration.
The Topanga environment also encourages me to take things a half-beat slower than I normally would which opens my eyes to more subtleties.
Like LINNÉ, you create your ceramics in small batches. How do you incorporate the element of sustainability into your work/ How does the element of nature play a role in your work?
Nature has always been my muse and now recently my material.
My ceramics process is intentionally sustainable, and now I am finding ways to make my painting practice as environmentally neutral as possible too.
My process includes sourcing pigments from hikes and mixing with nontoxic binders like walnut oil. I’ve also been experimenting with recycled clay as color on unprimed canvas––fusing my practices and media together naturally.
In ceramics we collect all of our water to quench the thirst of our garden and collect extra clay to recycle and create new workable clay from.
What do you think differentiates making art for yourself versus for others?
When I make art for myself I am more free and experimental. I’m really focused on the exploration and the process as a whole. When I make art for others I can tend to focus on the final outcome. There is a little more pressure to please when you are creating for others. Having a balance between the two is important for me. If I’m making a dinner set for a client, I’ll be sure to add a candle holder or mug as I’m throwing so I have something fun for myself to break up the pressure.
Outside of your studio, you work closely with brands in the digital world. How does your digital design process differ from your physical pieces?
The initial phase, client collaboration and inspiration sourcing, is somewhat similar with a handful of question-driven conversations as my mind starts collecting ideas. But when it comes to the creation phase, the digital process can be very zippy once I’m in the flow. I can try hundreds of different color ways or tweaks to a shape in the matter of minutes. I also can have all possibilities laid out in front of me to choose from. And can endlessly undo or CommandZ.
When it comes to my painting or ceramics process, it requires more trust in myself and more confidence in what’s coming out of me. I have to be patient with the overall composition coming together and sometimes take several days to see the work in different settings and mindsets before adding next layers.
Sometimes they’ll blur. I’ll find myself mentally “CommandZ-ing” something in my painting just to realize that won’t work in this arena.
What do you love most about art?
I love how, in any format, art is a person’s inner thoughts/feelings/being expressed outside of their body. We get a glimpse into someone’s interior. That’s so remarkable.
How can our community members make space for their art practice?
The way I started making space for my art practice was to do it in the morning. If you have the freedom of your own schedule, put art or creative play at the start of the day.
For me, by putting it first, I was telling myself (and the world) that it was my priority over the computer tasks and daily to-dos. And then my artistic practice became more and more of a priority and started taking up space for itself.
]]>
Sacha inchi seed oil is obtained from Plukenetia volubilis, a perennial native plant in the Europhorbiaceae family. Sacha inchi grows throughout the tropical rainforests of Venezuela, Columbia, Peru, Bolivia, and Brazil.
Its common name in the native Quechua language means false (sacha) peanut (inchi), but it has no relation to the peanut legume and is not a known allergen, however it is rather delicious. Try adding the roasted seeds to this coconut rainforest yogurt bowl.
While it’s only in the last few years that Sacha inchi oil has become popular worldwide, if was a dietary staple in Peru during the ancient pre-Inca era. Depictions of the plant were found on Mochica and Chimu ceramics dating back over 3000 years.
It wasn’t until 1978 that scientists began testing Sacha inchi and found it a valuable source of chemical and nutritional components. Sacha inchi seeds are rich in unsaturated fat, fiber, protein,antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, phytosterols, and phytochemicals. In diverse studies sacha inchi compounds have demonstrated antioxidant, hypolipidemic, immunomodulation and emollient activity.
Used topically, the high levels of linolenic acid allow this oil to rapidly penetrate the outer layers of skin. Combined with omega-3 fatty acids and the humectant properties of beta-sitosterol and stigmasterol, sacha inchi is known to:
By virtue of being indigenous to the Amazonian rain forest, we recognize the potential for sacha inchi to be at risk for agricultural controversy. Fortunately however, unlike other agribusiness, such as corn, palm oil and cattle ranching, sacha inchi has the potential to have numeral and significant benefits to the rainforest and crop farmers.
Sacha inchi farming can help re-forest land previously clear-cut for mass livestock operations. As a perennial forest crop, sacha inchi farming promotes healthy reforestation of native species. Furthermore sacha inchi is opening up sustainable and legal income streams for rural farming communities in areas once dependent on illicit coca cultivation.
There is much to love about Sacha inchi. Try it in REPAIR face oil!
]]>Carl Von Linné, aka Linnaeus came up with the binomial system of nomenclature, in which each species is identified by a generic name (genus) and a specific name (species). His 1753 publication, Species Plantarum, which described the new classification system, marked the beginning of the new naming system that we still use today.
This contribution to science is important for a variety of reasons. The top two reasons are:
1) The binomial system of nomenclature is governed by international codes and is used by biologists worldwide. Common names however vary vary from place to place.
This new universal language of binomial nomenclature allowed plant knowledge, and specifically plant medicine to be shared globally.
2) Compared to the polynomial system which it replaced, a binomial name is shorter and easier to remember. Trust me, this matters especially when you are a botany student learning about hundreds of new species as you tromp around in the woods.
I sure do miss those days of botanizing out in the wild and appreciate that we were taught shorter, globally-recognized names.
LINNÉ SKIN TEA is sold loose as whole flower, leaves, seeds and fruits for a few key reasons!
1. Tea bags generally contain the “dust” that falls on the floor and whatever is left after the production of loose leaf tea. No thanks! We use only extraordinary quality whole ingredients to make potent, delicious and nutritious beverages.
2. While there are some pyramid style tea bags that allow for larger particles, the highest quality tea will never be found in bags. Quality tea and herbal infusions need room to unfurl and absorb water. Even if you were to find reasonable quality herbs in a teabag, the constriction of the leaves and petals mean you won’t get to appreciate the full flavor and nutrient potential. That’s a shame!
To optimize your SKIN TEA experience we recommend an extended steep period in a vessel such as a tea pot with a deep and wide steep basket or in a French press.
3. Paper tea bags can be coated with dioxin, epichlorohydrin or bleached in chlorine. Plastic tea bags contain plastics like PVC or nylon that also leach chemicals when steeped. Hard pass!
LINNÉ SKIN TEA includes 13 Organic and Biodynamic fruits, flowers, leaves, and seeds, and NOTHING else. Because our flowers, leaves, fruits and seeds are freshly packed and premium grade, SKIN TEA can be re-infused multiple times.
Finally, to keep your herbs fresh, make sure the bag is sealed between uses and left out of direct sunlight.
Enjoy, and cheers to your good health.
Many of us carry a lot of stress in our facial muscles whether that manifests as a clenched jaw or a furrowed brow. This tension can lead to headaches, increased skin congestion and wrinkles.
Stress also cause our sympathetic nervous system to release the hormones cortisol and adrenaline. Cortisol causes increased oil production in your skin glands, which can lead to clogged pores and acne breakouts.
Stress additionally impacts our immune systems, causing our skin to be more reactive and sensitive, thus triggering conditions such as rashes, hives, and redness.
Finally stress can cause inflammation through the gut-skin connection. Stress impacts the balance of bacteria in your gut, which leads to a release of inflammation. Internal inflammation can manifest externally as acne, eczema, psoriasis and rosacea flare-ups.
LINNÉ products are rich in calming, anxiety-releasing aromatics to help us de-stress. Beyond a nourishing skin routine we believe activities such as art-making, exercise, journaling and other expressive endeavors are an important part of a holistic skincare routine.
Research shows that spending time in nature can help lower cortisol levels and boost immune functions. Spending time in nature activates the parasympathetic nervous system and counters the sympathetic nervous system which activates the fight or flight response.
While we now can easily spend entire days or even weeks inside, going from building to car to building, for the first 6–7 million years, human beings lived and evolved in a natural environment. Therefore, the physiological functions of human bodies developed in response to the natural environment. It is thus no surprise that our bodies are “at home” in nature.
Stressed or not, treat yourself to a 10-20 min walk outside this weekend. If it’s sunny we recommend applying a generous layer of RENEW and REPAIR under your PROTECT sunscreen to protect against UV damage and if it’s cold and dry finish your skin with a luscious layer of NURTURE or SMOOTH balm to promote barrier function.
Today we’re talking about psoriasis. Something I struggled with for much of my young adulthood. With over 3% of the US adult population affected, that makes over 7.5 million of us!
Normal skin cells grow and shed in a month. But in the case of psoriasis, skin cells grow in just three or four days! That's because psoriasis is an auto-immune condition. T-cells (a type of cell used by the immune system), normally travel through the body to detect and fight invading germs, such as bacteria. But in people with psoriasis, they start to attack healthy skin cells by mistake. This causes the deepest layer of skin to produce new skin cells more rapidly. But instead of shedding, the skin cells pile up on the surface of the skin.
Plaques and scales may appear on any part of the body, although they are commonly found on the elbows, knees, and scalp. I used to have constellations of little plaques all over my legs and abdomen. They were rather itchy and I know other folks report that the plaques can also burn and sting.
While scientists do not know what exactly causes psoriasis, we do know common triggers. The major ones include stress, hormonal changes, other immune disorders, smoking and excessive drinking. It's no surprise than that my symptoms would flare while a student at college, where I was deeply dedicated to both my studies and social life. To make matters worse, I was a student at Middlebury College in Vermont, where skin barely saw the light of day in the winter months (vitamin D and controlled UV light therapy are treatments for psoriasis).
Fortunately, however, after years of discomfort, I can confidently say I am completely psoriasis free (yes, that's me in this photo). I owe this change to a lifestyle adjustment and a skincare routine rich in nourishing emollients, namely SMOOTH body balm, which I formulated to address my psoriasis plaques.
Whether or not you have a condition like psoriasis or eczema, or just want deep nourished skin in the dead of winter, I think you will find SMOOTH a game changer. If you have yet to try it yet, please do! As with all LINNÉ products, it is made with extraordinary ingredients and with the utmost care, for healthy, radiant skin!
XO, Jenna
]]>