Category: Natural products

According to a 2003 study, a combination of beeswax, honey, and olive oil was found to be effective at soothing skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis when applied topically. This and other evidence sheds light on the multifaceted question: is beeswax good for you? While widely used in skincare and candle-making, its health impacts depend heavily on its form and application.

Research shows that a quarter of Americans consume non-nutritive sweeteners like aspartame, but concerns are driving demand for healthier alternatives. For those looking to avoid this artificial ingredient, knowing which chewing gums are aspartame free has become a priority. Several brands now offer alternatives sweetened with natural ingredients, catering to health-conscious consumers.

The fig is not a fruit in the traditional sense, but rather an inverted flower cluster known as a syconium. This botanical fact is central to understanding the complex answer to the question: Are figs natural?

Sodium alginate is a natural polysaccharide derived from brown seaweeds, a marine plant. This origin firmly places the question, "is sodium alginate a natural product?" with a resounding yes, although it is refined through industrial processes to achieve its final powdered form.

While deriving from the same plant, flaxseed oil and linseed oil are often not the same product and should not be used interchangeably. The primary difference lies in their processing and intended use, with one being for consumption and the other for industrial applications, making it critical to know which one you are buying.

According to scientific studies, ficin is a proteolytic enzyme found predominantly in the milky white latex sap of fig trees. This enzyme has a wide range of applications, from its historical use in folk medicine to its modern-day role in food processing and cosmetic formulations.

Chamomile has been used for its medicinal properties since ancient times. This flowering herb, considered a 'star among medicinal species', raises questions about its level of naturalness. Modern processing methods and product formulations can affect the final product.

Jarrah honey, originating from the Jarrah tree (*Eucalyptus marginata*) in Western Australia, is known for its distinct flavour and properties. One characteristic often discussed is its Total Activity (TA) rating. Understanding the TA rating provides insight into some of the natural qualities of this specific type of honey.

Historically valued by figures like Cleopatra for its cosmetic benefits, donkey milk has a rich legacy. Today, several innovative companies across the globe use donkey milk to create high-end skincare, gentle baby formulas, and gourmet food products, reviving this ancient elixir for modern consumers.

Miracle berries, or *Synsepalum dulcificum*, owe their extraordinary effect to a single, powerful component: miraculin. While the entire berry is a mix of natural compounds, this key glycoprotein is what temporarily alters your taste perception, making sour and acidic foods taste surprisingly sweet.