$48 for 0.5ml

I finally bought myself a bottle of Josie Maran’s Argan Oil and boy do I love it!!!  I was slightly nervous at the thought of using an oil as a moisturizer but it sinks in beautifully and doesn’t leave your skin feeling oily.  I have pretty normal to combination skin – if I get oily its in the t-zone.  I have not had any oil issue since using this.  It’ s a great dual purpose item as you can use it on cuticles, dry ends of hair, and more – basically what dry spot you can think of!

From Josie…

This legendary, lightweight oil, grown organically in Morocco, is rich in vitamin E and essential fatty acids. Use it as a fast absorbing daily moisturizer, or to heal and condition everything from cuticles to split ends. Plus it is 100% organic! Housed in a recyclable glass bottle.

Remember when I asked for help in reforming the organic meat and dairy industry?  The efforts were successful!

From the ASPCA…

Good news—the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) proposed regulations for the care of “organic” dairy cows, which we asked you take action on two weeks ago, have been approved! The new rules, effective June 17, stipulate that organic milk and meat must come from livestock grazing on pasture for at least four months of the year; 30 percent of the cows’ feed must come from grazing; and ranchers must have a plan to protect soil and water quality.

“We are delighted to learn that so many cows will now have access to pasture and an opportunity to graze,” says Robert Baker, ASPCA Senior Manager of Farm Animal Welfare. “We hope this will be the first of many steps the USDA will take to align organic standards with humane standards. Consumers need to be given an opportunity to make a ‘humane’ choice as well as a healthy choice when they choose organic products. We welcome these initial measures toward this goal.”

We would like to give a big thanks to News Alert readers and members of the ASPCA Advocacy Brigade who took the time to email the White House from ASPCA.org. Over the span of 15 days, more than 33,000 emails were sent!

“Clear and enforceable standards are essential to the health and success of the market for organic agriculture,” said Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack in a USDA press release issued last Friday. “The final rule published today will give consumers confidence that organic milk or cheese comes from cows raised on pasture, and organic family farmers the assurance that there is one, consistent pasture standard that applies to dairy products.”

For more information on the new rules for organic milk, visit the website of the National Organic Program.

I’m always looking for organic cotton or bamboo bedding.  Unfortunately it’s still not as mainstream as it should be.  West Elm and Pottery Barn have been carrying it for a little while but I just realized that now Lands’ End has a decent selection!  Check it out!

Have you ever had tulsi tea?  I used to drink it all the time and then for whatever reason switched to something else but now I’m back on it.  Tulsi is from India and has a distinct flavor different from other tea.  I know this is a horrible way of explaining it, but it has a bit of a spice to it – maybe somewhat chai-ish.  I purchase Organic IndiaTulsi Tea.  Currently I have the Pomegranate Green and the Raspberry Peach.

Here’s some info from their website:

In India, the herb Tulsialso called holy basil (sometimes spelled “Tulasi”) has been widely known for its health promoting and medicinal value for thousands of years. Commonly called sacred or holy basil, it is a principal herb of Ayurveda, the ancient traditional holistic health system of India. holy basil is known as “The Incomparable One”, “The Mother Medicine of Nature”, and “The Queen of Herbs”.

Tulsi is rich in antioxidant and renowned for its restorative powers, Tulsi has several benefits:

• Relieves stress / adaptogen
• Bolsters immunity
• Enhances stamina
• Provides support during cold season
• Promotes healthy metabolism
• A natural immuno-modulator

Tulsi Tea can be enjoyed throughout the day, from morning to night. However, even one cup of Tulsi Tea a day is beneficial. During times of illness, the quantity and the strength of ORGANIC INDIA Tulsi TEA can be increased to quicken recovery.

Tulsi has been used for thousands of years to prevent and minimize the symptoms of colds and flu, to support upper respiratory health, reduce fevers and promote overall health. When utilizing Tulsi Tea to lessen the duration of colds or flu, it is suggested that you increase the amount and strength of the tea you consume. Suggested use: 2-3 tea bags per cup of tea, 3-6 times per day.

Tulsi is also great with a milk and a sweetener!

I love that this Tulsi Tea is organic.  They’re even committed to responsible packaging – the carton the tea is packaged in is made from 100% recycled paperboard with a minimum of 30% post consumer content and the tea bags are made from unbleached, biodegradable fiber.

I’m SO EXCITED for this new line of dog food to come out!  Winston is going to love it and I’ll love the peace of mind knowing that not only is this food organic and good for him but 6% of the wholesale price will go to the Humane Society of the US!  I completely trust this organization.   Their stamp of approval on this food means a lot and I’m happy knowing that part of the profits will be going to a very important cause.

‘Humane Choice’ brand to be sold at PETCO, Whole Foods (in NY & NJ), and other stores

Selecting a high-quality pet food is one of the most important decisions a pet parent can make. To celebrate pets, The Humane Society of the United States announces the nationwide launch of a cruelty-free, all natural and certified organic “Humane Choice” dog food. The HSUS developed this new product to offer consumers a wholesome and nutritious dog food that does not contain animal-based proteins or support the factory farming industry. 

Consumers have become more aware of the quality and humane standards of their pet’s food after the recent pet food adulteration scandals, massive pet food recalls, and the increased exposure of inhumane factory farming practices. The HSUS’ new Humane Choice dog food is nutritionally complete and balanced, contains the finest quality organic plant-based ingredients and meets the nutritional levels established by the Association of American Feed Control Officials for adult dog food. The food was not tested on laboratory animals, is cruelty-free and does not contain any fats or proteins derived from animals.

“Americans are concerned about the food we eat, and it just makes sense that we’d be concerned about the food we provide to our pets,” said Wayne Pacelle, president and CEO of the HSUS. “Humane Choice is a nutritious, environmentally friendly and ethically responsible food for our best friends. Every bag of Humane Choice helps us celebrate the pets we love, and provides us with additional resources to help animals through our programs.”

The Humane Choice dog food is currently available in several independently owned pet supply stores and at PETCO.com and will soon be on store shelves at selected PETCO locations and selected Whole Foods locations in New Jersey and New York. More PETCO and Whole Foods locations will carry Humane Choice in the spring. The HSUS will receive 6 percent of the wholesale price of each 6.6-pound bag sold and will use the funds in its programs to provide spaying and neutering and other veterinary care for animals, to rescue animals from natural disasters and cruelty cases, to conduct undercover investigations of animal abuse and more.

Humane Choice is produced by a USDA Organic-certified grower and manufacturer in Uruguay. The family-owned and operated business has been growing grains and vegetables and making and exporting organic and vegetarian dog food for many years. Humane Choice does not contain corn, dairy, artificial coloring, wheat, wheat gluten, animal-based protein, or ingredients produced by genetic engineering.

For more information on Humane Choice dog food, click here.

From ASPCA…send the email – I did!

U.S. demand for organic milk has increased as much as 30% in the last few years. However, contrary to popular belief, the lives of “organic” dairy cows are often no different from those of their non-organic counterparts. Instead of the lush green pastures depicted in commercials and on milk cartons, an estimated 30-40% of the nation’s organic milk supply comes from large factory farms. Many of the largest organic dairies in the country confine their cows in barns and/or dry lots, which are simply dirt pens. These cows never see a blade of grass in their lives.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) already requires that organic dairy cows be allowed to graze in pastures, but the loophole in this regulation is so large that enforcement has proved hopeless. However, there is good news on the horizon: the USDA has proposed rules to better enforce existing requirements and ensure that organic dairy farms graze their cows rather than confine them.

The proposed regulations are awaiting the approval of the President’s Office of Management and Budget, which is apolitical and not influenced by public pressure. The best way to make your voice heard is to contact President Obama himself and urge him to champion the USDA’s new regulations to his budget office. A decision could be made any day, so please visit aspca.org/USA to send an email to the White House asking the President to take this small step to address the public’s concerns about where “organic” milk comes from. You may also call the White House Comment Line at (202) 456-1111.

I have a baby gift to purchase and am super excited to check out Nat & Helens.  I’ve been looking at the website but can’t wait to go into the store.  Check out the online site or visit their Chicago store – I’ll let you know what I think once I make it in there but the online store as lots of super cute stuff – organic cotton, bamboo, etc.

To further elaborate on my love of Green & Blacks organic chocolates - you MUST try their Hot Chocolate.  It is simply delicious!  Perfect for a chilly winter night when you’re cozied up on the couch near a warm fire!  Definitely try it with soy milk, almond milk or my new favorite – coconut milk!

$19

I’m loving my 100% Pure Organic Coffee Bean Eyecream!  It’s  a good consistency – not greasy – which I hate since it messes with my eye makeup. 

100% Natural, 100% Vegan, Gluten free

** Results of an independent clinical 4 week study

• GOOD BYE TO PUFFY EYES!
  - 83% saw immediate reduction of puffiness
  - 97% saw reduction of puffiness with continued use

• SAY NO TO DARK CIRCLES!
  -73% saw an immediate reduction of dark circles
  -87% saw reduction of dark circles with continued use

• SAY YES TO MORE HEALTHY, BEAUTIFUL, YOUTHFUL LOOKING EYES!
  -87% say thry look more ‘awake, rested and refreshed’
  -80% say that it instantly helped reduce the look of lines and wrinkles around the eye area
  -97% say skin around their eyes softer and smoother
  -93% say it reduced the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles with continued use
  -100% say it improved skin hydration and moisturization
  -93% say it improved skin firmness/elasticity
  -93% say that the eye cream absorbs well

Anti-inflammatory, caffeine rich green tea and coffee de-puffs and reduces swelling while increasing circulation to alleviate and brighten dark circles. Concentrated with potent anti-aging vitamins, antioxidants, and nourishing rosehip oil. Truly, 100% Pure.