Lustrous Henna®

Avoid Formaldehyde Exposure in Hair Care Products

Don’t Get Sucked in by ‘Glamorous Advertising’ –Avoid Formaldehyde Exposure

We’ve seen the ads. Women with seemingly unmanageable tangled, curly hair, appearing frustrated and ashamed…uh, that is…until they try the latest ‘flavor-of-the-month’ hair smoothing products that contain ‘all-natural’ and supposedly harmless ingredients that almost miraculously changes the composition of the model’s hair to a radiant, bone-straight mane that is now the envy all who look upon her. 

Who wouldn’t want that kind of a miracle? Sadly, the truth is: many of these hair-smoothing, blowout products contain cancer-causing formaldehyde^1,2,3. Application releases this chemical into the air and affects -not only the customer and hair stylist -but everyone around them.

Recently, a national USA television program featuring a famous doctor⁴, warned women about the dangers of hair care products containing formaldehyde and other hazardous chemicals proven to cause cancer. The products featured included chemical-filled, hair smoothing blowout products, as well as caustic hair relaxers. He also invited a guest reviewer who is a natural hair blogger. She did a great job in promoting the need for women to embrace their natural hair and to learn to care for their hair -naturally.

Choose Natural Hair Care –Avoid Formaldehyde Exposure

This writer now avoids formaldehyde exposure and I choose natural hair care. As a former user of these harmful hair-smoothing treatments, I seriously damaged my hair and scalp. Yes, I did. I fell for the TV advertising and even products promoted by my former hair stylists.  Fortunately, my current natural hair care routine has helped my hair to become healthier and my hair loss has stopped. I rarely use heat on my hair; when I do, I take proper precautions, using natural products to protect my locks. 

I can honestly say that the natural products from Saba Botanical of USA have not disappointed me. These are the products that helped me to transition from chemical relaxers and chemical hair dye to all natural hair care. I’m not the only one who has experienced superior hair care. The testimonial page on their website, as well as a number of blog posts contain true experiences of many happy and satisfied men and women, who sing the praises of these ancient botanicals.

By switching to all natural plant-based hair care products, you can avoid formaldehyde exposure and a host of other dangerous chemicals in conventional hair products. The following sources links can further help you make the wise decision to get started on a natural hair care regime.

Source links:

¹OSHA. US Department of Labor. Hair Salons: Facts About Formaldehyde in Hair Products.

²OSHA fact sheet: Formaldehyde in Hair Care Products Presents Health Risks to Employees.

³Women’s Voices for the Earth: Hair Straightening Products Containing Formaldehyde.

⁴Dr. Mehmet Oz Video. Salon Hair Treatments: What You Need to Know

Read real customer testimonials.

 Author: L.J. O'Neal, writer and researcher. (L.J. is also a Lustrous Henna®  user.)

©2010-2015. L.J. O'Neal. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

Do not copy or reprint this article without the consent of the author or Saba Botanical of USA.

Want to view our website? Go to:Saba Botanical of USA

 *Even though our herbal ingredients have been used in natural medicine for centuries, we must add the following disclaimer: The herbs, formulas, and recipes contained within this web site are not to be considered substitutes for proper medical and health care. As with any other medicine, if you are sick, you should consult a physician to find out if the herbal preparations listed here are right for you. Saba Botanical does not make any medical claims nor warranties regarding the use of the products listed on this site. No matter how natural a product is, it may have a potential of causing side effects and allergic reaction on certain individuals. You should consult your physician before taking any medication.

Clear Up Eczema with Natural Treatment Reminders

Clear Up Eczema -from Babyhood to Adulthood

Modern medical eczema treatment aims to control the symptoms by reducing inflammation and relieving itching. In contrast, ancient traditional methods have provided an effective natural remedy for allergic reactions with this troublesome condition for many sufferers for centuries. To prevent or reduce allergic reactions, there are no “quick fixes”, even for mild cases. However, real natural healing can be achieved with earnest effort and time. Try the following reminders to clear away eczema naturally.

Clear Up Eczema -Take Care of the Inner Body

Since eczema in an infirmity that starts within the body, it is essential to treat the inner body in an attempt to control the condition at the roots and stop allergic reactions. Thus the mind and vital organs need to proper care.

Eliminate or lessen causes of stress: Reduce anxiety and anger by using relaxation exercises found in yoga, meditation and walking.

Maintain a balance, healthy diet:  Low fat foods are very helpful. Turmeric is known to soothe the skin, therefore adding it to food dishes and see if it’s helpful.

Hydrate from the inside: DRINK WATER!

Eliminate trigger foods:  There are varying opinions on what foods to eliminate from the diet. Therefore, try eliminating one well-known “eczema-flaring” food at a time, week-by-week, to find out what your trigger foods are. Then completely eliminate them from your diet to avoid further allergic reactions. The following foods and spices have been suggested as possible eczema trigger foods: cashew and other nuts, cucumbers, radishes, pickles, curds, mustard, oranges, papaya, watermelon, ice cream. Reduce the use of: salt, onion, okra, ginger, certain oils and spice (trial and error).

Clear Up Eczema –Protect Your Skin

Keep skin properly hydrated:  Pure Reetha Powder Organic Wash.  Reetha Fruit is an ancient botanical used for full body bath soaks or pastes applied to affected area.  Oatmeal baths have also been known to provide some relief.

Bathe in warm water instead of hot water: Adding olive oil to the bath water is known to bring relief to some sufferers.  Before drying off, apply castor oil or other emollient to affected areas (avoiding eyes). Use a soft towel to lightly and gently dry your skin.

Avoid wearing wool against the skin or any fabric that causes the skin to itch and become irritated.

Use natural oils and butters known for their emollient and skin protection abilities: Olive oil, shea butter, hemp oil, castor oil (very thick; use at night, if heaviness is an issue)

Clear Up Eczema -Protect Yourself from the Environment

If you live in a cold or dry climate, it’s very important to use the given suggestions to protect your skin from the elements: sun, heat, cold weather, etc.

Wear clothing, hats, gloves and shoes that won’t aggravate your skin.

This article is only a brief review of natural eczema treatment associated with mild to moderate cases of eczema or atopic dermatitis. For more complete care on eliminating allergic reactions from eczema naturally, please see a physician or therapist, well trained in ancient natural medicinal treatment.

Read real customer testimonials.

 Author: L.J. O'Neal, writer and researcher. (L.J. is also a Lustrous Henna®  user.)

©2010-2015. L.J. O'Neal. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

Do not copy or reprint this article without the consent of the author or Saba Botanical of USA.

Want to view our website? Go to:Saba Botanical of USA

 *Even though our herbal ingredients have been used in natural medicine for centuries, we must add the following disclaimer: The herbs, formulas, and recipes contained within this web site are not to be considered substitutes for proper medical and health care. As with any other medicine, if you are sick, you should consult a physician to find out if the herbal preparations listed here are right for you. Saba Botanical does not make any medical claims nor warranties regarding the use of the products listed on this site. No matter how natural a product is, it may have a potential of causing side effects and allergic reaction on certain individuals. You should consult your physician before taking any medication.

Hair Dye Risks in the News

Have You Read about Chemical Hair Dye Risks in the News?

The Health Effects of Hair Coloring

“Coloring your hair may be dangerous to your health. The health effects of hair coloring are, to a certain extent, unknown. And the link between hair coloring and cancer is controversial and, to date, inconclusive. But many of the chemicals contained in frequently used hair dyes have been shown to be dangerous. Such chemicals can cause allergic reactions and perhaps even neurological problems.

There are alternatives to such hair dyes, such as plant-based henna and infrared techniques that open up hair shafts to allow coloring. Such "green" solutions are advisable for anyone who wants to avoid the risks associated with many hair-coloring products.

Potentially Dangerous Chemicals in Hair Coloring Products

Chemicals in hair coloring products include PPD, or para-phenylenediamine, which can cause allergic reactions such as burning and headaches and is also a potential carcinogen; coal tar, which is in 70 percent of hair coloring products and can cause allergic reactions; lead acetate, which has been banned in European countries as a possible carcinogen and, as with, other lead products, may cause potentially serious neurological problems; DMDM hydantoin, a preservative that has been linked to immune system problems; ammonia, which can be toxic and corrosive and may cause respiratory problems; and resorcinol, which can be an irritant and is a potential carcinogen.”¹

What’s Wrong with Hair Dye?
Most Dyes Contain a Chemical that Can Cause Dangerous Reactions.

“Salons and home color kits make it easy to say goodbye to grey hairs and roots, but sudden serious allergic reactions to hair dye are on the rise-even among those who have been using the same hair coloring product for years. 

“You can develop an allergy to a product at any point in time,” says Dr. Rajani Katta, professor of dermatology at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston, Texas. “One allergic reaction we’re seeing commonly is to hair dyes.”

Dye Disasters

In recent years, severe or even fatal allergic reactions to para-phenylenediamine (PPD), a chemical used in 99% of all hair dyes, have been reported. The chemical is stronger in dark hair dyes than in light shades. In mild cases of hair dye allergies, scalp burning or tightness can occur. With more severe allergic reations, a red rash may erupt or the entire face may drastically swell-as was the case with one teenage boy this past February, whose head swelled to twice its normal size after he dyed his hair black. Pictures of the head swelling were posted on the website Reddit, and they soon became a viral sensation with nearly two million views. A similar reaction after applying hair dye was reported by teenager, Lois Queen, whose face ballooned after using L’Oreal Casting Crème Gloss in chocolate brown. Queen was rushed to the hospital, where doctors diagnosed a severe allergic reaction and gave her steroids and antihistamines.”²

¹ Read more: Jim Thomas, Livestrong
² Read more: Lindsay Blomberg, Emagazine.

Read real customer testimonials.

 Author: L.J. O'Neal, writer and researcher. (L.J. is also a Lustrous Henna®  user.)

©2010-2015. L.J. O'Neal. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

Do not copy or reprint this article without the consent of the author or Saba Botanical of USA.

Want to view our website? Go to:Saba Botanical of USA

 *Even though our herbal ingredients have been used in natural medicine for centuries, we must add the following disclaimer: The herbs, formulas, and recipes contained within this web site are not to be considered substitutes for proper medical and health care. As with any other medicine, if you are sick, you should consult a physician to find out if the herbal preparations listed here are right for you. Saba Botanical does not make any medical claims nor warranties regarding the use of the products listed on this site. No matter how natural a product is, it may have a potential of causing side effects and allergic reaction on certain individuals. You should consult your physician before taking any medication.

Natural Hair Defined -the Root of the Matter

Natural Hair Defined

Natural hair is an important biomaterial primarily composed of protein, notably keratin. Keratin assembles into rope-like intermediate filaments. The structure of these filaments provides strength to the hair shaft.

Natural hair growth begins under the skin in a hair follicle. The only "living" portion of the hair is found in the follicle. The hair that is visible is the hair shaft, which exhibits no biochemical activity and is considered dead. The base of the root is called the bulb, which contains the cells that produce the hair shaft. Other structures of the hair follicle include the oil producing sebaceous gland which lubricates the hair.

If Hair is ‘Dead’, Does it Really Matter What I Do to it?

Absolutely. If we care about our hair, it doesn’t have to be dull, dry and lifeless. We can choose to have naturally beautiful and healthy natural hair. Caring for and protecting our scalp is essential for hair growth and beauty. Therefore, avoiding synthetic chemical dyes will prevent potential skin irritation and severe allergic reaction.

According to Wikipedia: “Hair is a filamentous biomaterial, that grows from follicles found in the dermis. The human body, apart from the palms of the hands and soles of the feet, is covered in follicles, which produce thick terminal and fine vellus hair. Most common interest in hair is focused on hair growth, hair types and hair care.”*

Natural Hair Amplified

A Single Strand: Each strand of natural hair is made up of the medulla, cortex, and cuticle. The innermost region, the medulla, is not always present and is an open, unstructured region. The highly structured and organized cortex, or middle layer of the hair, is the primary source of mechanical strength, water uptake. The cortex contains melanin, which colors the fiber based on the number, distribution and types of melanin granules.

The shape of the follicle determines the shape of the cortex, and the shape of the fiber is related to how straight or curly the hair is. Asian hair typically has a round fiber and is quite straight. Oval and irregularly shaped fibers are generally wavier or even curly. The cuticle is the outer covering. Its complex structure slides as the hair swells and is covered with a single molecular layer of lipid that makes the hair repel water.

The diameter of human hair varies from 17 to 180 µm (0.00067 to 0.0071 in), depending on the color. Flaxen hair is the thinnest and black hair is the thickest.*

Hair Color and Pigment

All natural hair color is the result of two types of hair pigment. Both these pigments are types of melanin produced inside the hair follicle and packed into granules found in the fibres. Eumelanin is the dominant pigment in dark-blond, brown and black hair, while pheomelanin is increased amounts in red hair. Blond hair is the result of having little pigmentation in the hair strand. Gray hair occurs when melanin decreases or disappears.*

Covering gray is no longer something to fret over. Lustrous Henna® hair color covers gray and brings back the natural highlights. It is a plant-based completely natural hair color, free of harmful chemicals. Lustrous Henna® defines hair beautifully.

*Source: Wikipedia,Hair.

Read real customer testimonials.

 Author: L.J. O'Neal, writer and researcher. (L.J. is also a Lustrous Henna®  user.)

©2010-2015. L.J. O'Neal. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

Do not copy or reprint this article without the consent of the author or Saba Botanical of USA.

Want to view our website? Go to:Saba Botanical of USA

 *Even though our herbal ingredients have been used in natural medicine for centuries, we must add the following disclaimer: The herbs, formulas, and recipes contained within this web site are not to be considered substitutes for proper medical and health care. As with any other medicine, if you are sick, you should consult a physician to find out if the herbal preparations listed here are right for you. Saba Botanical does not make any medical claims nor warranties regarding the use of the products listed on this site. No matter how natural a product is, it may have a potential of causing side effects and allergic reaction on certain individuals. You should consult your physician before taking any medication.

Trending Health Alert -Hair Dye for Children and Teens

Trending Health Alert:
Chemical Hair Dye Potentially Harmful for Children and Teens

This warning bears repeating over and over again. Permanent and most semi-permanent dyes contain harmful chemicals that have been proven to cause adverse damage to an adult scalp and hair shaft. Obviously, the potential for damage is even more severe to the developing skin and hair shaft of a young, preteen child!

According to numerous dermatological and other medical reports hair dye allergy is on the rise. An article in the British Medical Journal¹reported that in Japan, Denmark and USA, hair color use has increased among male and female youth. “Severe hair dye reactions among children have recently been reported.”^2,3

Trending Health Alert:
FDA and WebMD -Hair Dye Use Can Cause Severe Allergy

According to the FDA, adults using chemical hair dyes have suffered serious problems such as: hair loss, burning, redness, itchy or raw skin, swelling in the face, trouble breathing, permanent scarring and more.

There also have been several young dermatological patients that have suffered terrible skin reactions from chemical hair color dyes containing harsh ingredients such as Para-Phenylenediamine (PPD), coal tar, peroxide, ammonia and much more.  There are also studies that link prolonged use of such dyes to cancer.

WebMD states the following information for adult women:

“The decision to change your hair color may be a hard one. Some studies have linked hair dyes with a higher risk of certain cancers, while other studies have not found this link. Most hair dyes also don't have to go through safety testing that other cosmetic color additives do before hitting store shelves. Women are often on their own trying to figure out whether hair dyes are safe. 

When hair dyes first came out, the main ingredient in coal-tar hair dye caused allergic reactions in some people. Most hair dyes are now made from petroleum sources. But FDA still considers them to be coal-tar dyes. This is because they have some of the same compounds found in these older dyes.”¹  

Trending Health Alert:
“Wake-Up” Call for Parents

Following harmless fashion and style trends can bring joy and lots of fun. However, using harmful and dangerous substances to follow a trend isn’t wise and the consequences won’t be joyful at all. Please listen to this “Wake-Up” call and keep protecting your children’s health.

¹Source:  BMJ. 2007 February 3; 334(7587): 220. doi: 10.1136/bmj.39042.643206.BE. ²“Horror of Hair Dye for Abigail” (article in The Sun). ³ NCIS Star Pauley Perrette Issues Hair Dye Health Warning After Severe Allergic Reaction. ⁴"Are Hair Dyes Safe?".

Read real customer testimonials.

 Author: L.J. O'Neal, writer and researcher. (L.J. is also a Lustrous Henna®  user.)

©2010-2015. L.J. O'Neal. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

Do not copy or reprint this article without the consent of the author or Saba Botanical of USA.

Want to view our website? Go to:Saba Botanical of USA

 *Even though our herbal ingredients have been used in natural medicine for centuries, we must add the following disclaimer: The herbs, formulas, and recipes contained within this web site are not to be considered substitutes for proper medical and health care. As with any other medicine, if you are sick, you should consult a physician to find out if the herbal preparations listed here are right for you. Saba Botanical does not make any medical claims nor warranties regarding the use of the products listed on this site. No matter how natural a product is, it may have a potential of causing side effects and allergic reaction on certain individuals. You should consult your physician before taking any medication.

The Flower Power of the Kariyat Plant

Flower Power from India with Kariyat

Flowers all over the world have been known to possess medicinal powers since ancient times. Today, many natural flowering plants can still contribute to our well-being. Let’s consider another flower of India and its medicinal attributes: Kariyat.

Kariyat Botany

Botanical name: Andrographis paniculata. Hindi Name: Kariyat, Kalpanath. Common Name in English: Green chirayta, creat, king of bitters, andrographis, India Echinacea

Kariyat is an annual herb with an extremely bitter taste in every part of the plant. It is also known as ‘Maha-tita’, meaning literally ‘king of bitters’. In fact, it is one of the most bitter plants used in traditional medicine. It grows to a height of one to four feet in moist shady places. It has smooth leaves and white flowers with rose-purple spots on the petals.

Flower Power of Kariyat in Natural Medicine

Kariyat has been used to boost the immune system. The extract has also been used to dry nasal passages of cold sufferers. It also is believed to possess the following properties: antibiotic, antimalarial, antihepatatic, antithrombogenic, anti-inflammatory, anti-snake venom and antipyretic. Additionally, in Siddha medicine, it is widely used, traditionally to treat chikenguinea, swine-flu and typhoid fevers. Note the following quote:*

 “Since ancient times, A. paniculata is used in traditional Siddha and Ayurvedic systems of medicine as well as in tribal medicine in India and some other countries for multiple clinical applications.

The herb has a number of purported medicinal uses, although research has found evidence of its effectiveness is limited to treatment of upper respiratory infection, ulcerative colitis and rheumatic symptoms; in particular, there is no evidence of its effectiveness in cancer treatment.

According to the Mayo Clinic Book of Alternative Medicine, "A specific product (andrographis combined with Eleutherococcus senticosus) may shorten the duration and lessen the symptoms of common cold." It also says, "Pregnant women shouldn't use andrographis because it could terminate pregnancy."

In one Chilean study from 1999, the herb had a significant drying effect on the nasal secretions of cold sufferers who took 1,200 milligrams of andrographis extract daily for five days. A 2012 study suggested that Andrographis paniculata extracts may have the potential to be used as a mosquito repellant. A 2006 study reported that extracts of Andrographis exhibited potent anti-inflammatory effects and antioxidant actions in mice.”

Now that’s serious flower power! 

This is just one flowering plant with lots of power. Consider another one with proven effectiveness for healthy hair care: pure henna for hair. Receive healthy natural dying power with Lustrous Henna®. Totally natural and totally safe to use for all men and women.

* Source:Wikipedia_,Andrographis paniculata. 

Read real customer testimonials.

 Author: L.J. O'Neal, writer and researcher. (L.J. is also a Lustrous Henna®  user.)

©2010-2015. L.J. O'Neal. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

Do not copy or reprint this article without the consent of the author or Saba Botanical of USA.

Want to view our website? Go to:Saba Botanical of USA

 *Even though our herbal ingredients have been used in natural medicine for centuries, we must add the following disclaimer: The herbs, formulas, and recipes contained within this web site are not to be considered substitutes for proper medical and health care. As with any other medicine, if you are sick, you should consult a physician to find out if the herbal preparations listed here are right for you. Saba Botanical does not make any medical claims nor warranties regarding the use of the products listed on this site. No matter how natural a product is, it may have a potential of causing side effects and allergic reaction on certain individuals. You should consult your physician before taking any medication.

Hair Loss Reasons and Solutions

Hair Loss -Temporary and Ongoing

In today’s modern age, there are a number of temporary afflictions that can affect the growth of hair in men and women.  However at times the reason for hair could be due to an underlying medical condition that might warrant a visit to a dermatologist. Let's consider a few conditions. 

Natural Cures Help Hair Loss (Hair Fall)

If hair loss is a temporary condition, due to undue stress, temporary illness or similar issue, then proven home remedies and ancient natural cures can help stop hair loss (hair fall). Natural cures include a change in diet (quite beneficial) as we have written in a number of articles in our blog archives. Exercise (also a part of natural cures) help improves overall health and can boost self-esteem while treating some causes of hair loss (hair fall).

The botanical extracts and powders on the Saba Botanical website are well-known to be natural cures for hair loss (hair fall), used for literally centuries. In our modern day, they have proven to be truly beneficial home remedies.

Hair Loss (Hair Fall) Due To Physical and Emotional Stress

According to the American Hair Loss Council*, surgeries and stress can temporarily affect hair growth:

“Surgeries, severe illnesses and emotional stress can cause hair loss. The body simply shuts down production of hair during periods of stress since it is not necessary for survival and instead devotes its energies toward repairing vital body structures. In many cases there is a three month delay between the actual event and the onset of hair loss. Furthermore, there may be another three month delay prior to the return of noticeable hair regrowth. This then means that the total hair loss and regrowth cycle can last 6 months or possibly longer when induced by physical or emotional stress. There are some health conditions which may go undetected that can contribute to hair loss. These include anemia or low blood count and thyroid abnormalities. Both of these conditions can be detected by a simple, inexpensive blood test.”

An Ongoing Medical Condition

An abnormal thyroid, hormonal changes from conditions like pregnancy, menopause or Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS); even medications for blood pressure and gout can contribute to hair loss (hair fall).

A Dermatologist Visit Might Be Best

If you are concerned that your hair loss is excessive, then it’s best to visit a dermatologist. In fact the American Hair Loss Council suggests the following:

“First have your hair loss diagnosed by a competent dermatologist who sees hair loss patients on a regular basis. Once you know the diagnosis you will have a better understanding of exactly which treatment option may be best for you.”

*Citations: ahlc.org website.

Read real customer testimonials.

 Author: L.J. O'Neal, writer and researcher. (L.J. is also a Lustrous Henna® user.)

©2010-2013. L.J. O’Neal. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

Do not copy or reprint this article without the consent of the author or Saba Botanical of USA.

Want to view our website? Go to:Saba Botanical of USA

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SHARING OUR SECRET, SHARING OUR JOY and SPREADING OUR LOVE.

Go to our FRIEND page "Lustrous Henna on Facebook". (Become our friend).

"LIKE" US on Facebook, FOLLOW US on Twitter

 

*Even though our herbal ingredients have been used in natural medicine for centuries, we must add the following disclaimer: The herbs, formulas, and recipes contained within this web site are not to be considered substitutes for proper medical and health care. As with any other medicine, if you are sick, you should consult a physician to find out if the herbal preparations listed here are right for you. Saba Botanical does not make any medical claims nor warranties regarding the use of the products listed on this site. No matter how natural a product is, it may have a potential of causing side effects and allergic reaction on certain individuals. You should consult your physician before taking any medication.

Hair Color -Alternative Chemical Dangers

Chemical Hair Color Alternatives -Still Unsafe.

Gray hair makes many of us anxious, searching for a safe way to cover it up. Gray hair makes us want to get back our youthful appearance. In desperation, we may have used hair color filled with harmful chemicals like Para-phenylenediamine (PPD), mixtures of ammonia with peroxide, and/or para-toluenediamine sulfate (PTDS). As consumers are being made aware of the harmful effects of Para-phenylenediamine (PPD), manufacturers have begun producing "alternative hair color" with para-toluenediamine sulfate (PTDS). They claim that para-toluenediamine sulfate (PTDS) is a safe alternative to Para-phenylenediamine (PPD). 

Is a Chemical-Based, "Alternative Hair Color" for Persons Allergic to PPD -Safer for Gray Hair?

Before you use that bottle of hair dye to cover your gray hair, please read below. The following is a partial abstract from Medscape article, "“Alternative Hair-dye Products for Persons Allergic to Para-phenylenediamine”:

"In the past, finding alternative hair dye products for individuals allergic to para-phenylenediamine (PPD) was a nearly impossible task. Hair coloring products containing PPD have traditionally yielded far superior cosmetic results than have alternative dyes. Individuals allergic to PPD have had limited alternative products from which to choose. These products typically had less realistic color or did not cover gray hair adequately.

Hair-dye products are divided into permanent, demipermanent, and semipermanent types. Most available products in each of these categories contain PPD. However, hair coloring products are now defined by "lift." Permanent dyes first lighten, or "lift," the ambient hair color with ammonia and peroxide to allow the dye to cover gray hair more effectively. "Lifting" or lightening the ambient hair color turns the darker hairs closer in hue to the gray hairs. The result is that gray is more effectively covered when the hair is colored. This is not ideal for men because most men want some gray to show through so that they do not appear to be wearing a hairpiece. Some women also prefer this type of "natural" look. Therefore, demipermanent dyes were designed to cover most but not all gray hair. Demipermanent dyes usually incorporate ethanolamine to give some "lift" and do a moderately effective job of covering gray. Semipermanent dyes have no "lift" and cover gray hair minimally.

Recently, many manufacturers have started to produce permanent and demipermanent hair coloring products in which PPD has been replaced with para-toluenediamine sulfate (PTDS). These products are as cosmetically elegant as the corresponding products containing PPD. Unfortunately, PPD and PTDS are closely related ingredients, and it is possible that individuals who are allergic to one of these ingredients may also be allergic to the other.*

Why take a chance with your beautiful mane, health and safety? Have chemical hair dyes proven to be trustworthy for those suffering from serious dermatological scarring and permanent skin damage? Stop taking a risk with every application of chemical hair dye. Be safe and use 100% natural plant-based alternative hair color. Cover your gray and reflect your natural beauty.

*Italics ours.

Source: “Alternative Hair-dye Products for Persons Allergic to Para-phenylenediamine” by Andrew Scheman, Christina Cha, Manpreet Bhinder. US National Library of Medicine. Medscape.

Read real customer testimonials.

 Author: L.J. O'Neal, writer and researcher. (L.J. is also a Lustrous Henna® user.)

©2010-2013. L.J. O’Neal. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

Do not copy or reprint this article without the consent of the author or Saba Botanical of USA.

Want to view our website? Go to:Saba Botanical of USA

Thank You FACEBOOK FRIENDS for

SHARING OUR SECRET, SHARING OUR JOY and SPREADING OUR LOVE.

Go to our FRIEND page "Lustrous Henna on Facebook". (Become our friend).

"LIKE" US on Facebook, FOLLOW US on Twitter

 

*Even though our herbal ingredients have been used in natural medicine for centuries, we must add the following disclaimer: The herbs, formulas, and recipes contained within this web site are not to be considered substitutes for proper medical and health care. As with any other medicine, if you are sick, you should consult a physician to find out if the herbal preparations listed here are right for you. Saba Botanical does not make any medical claims nor warranties regarding the use of the products listed on this site. No matter how natural a product is, it may have a potential of causing side effects and allergic reaction on certain individuals. You should consult your physician before taking any medication.

Gray Hair –What Really Causes It?

Warning: You may have to apologize to a few people after reading this.

Why Gray Hair –The Easy Answer 

When melanin (pigment) is reduced, our hair color turns gray. If we no longer have any melanin (pigment), our hair turns white.

Why Gray Hair –The Detailed Answer 

Melanin gives our hair its natural color. Melanin is spread into the middle layer of the hair shaft or cortex. The type of amount of melanin distributed give hair its natural color.

Even though there are a vast variety of hair color shades, they are derived by only two types of pigment. Our hair color is made up of dark (eumelanin) and light (phaeomelanin).

Gray Hair from Babyhood to Adulthood 

While in the womb, hair is white until the production of melanin quickly begins. Special pigment cells called melanocytes make up melanin. These cells are at the skin’s surface at the follicles from which hair grows. As hair develops, melanin (pigment) containing keratin is injected into the hair cells through the melanocytes. This process is what produces hair color in various hues. Keratin is protein that is essential for healthy hair, skin and nails.¹

As we get older, our chance of going gray increases, as melanin decreases. We hit age thirty, then forty, then fifty, then…well, you know what happens.

Gray Hair –Other Causes 

Age and genetics are not the only causes of gray hair. Scientists have determined that there are other factors that can cause gray hair and even accelerate its production. These factors can actually change the pigment of hair; causing it to be lighter or darker.

Intrinsic factors: genetic defects, hormones, body distribution, age.

Extrinsic factors: climate, pollutants, toxins, chemical exposure.

In 2009, scientists in Europe described how hair follicles produce small amounts of hydrogen peroxide. This chemical builds on the hair shafts, which can lead to a gradual loss of hair color^.2

Surprise! Surprise! It’s not really the kids that cause our gray hair! It’s not totally the boss or a crazy spouse either. For most of us, it’s simply the natural cycle of life, our heredity and our environment. So, now is a good time to apologize -to all those folks you thought were the real source of your gray hair.
:-D

¹Library of Congress. ² Wood, J.M et al. Senile hair graying: H2O2 mediated oxidative stress affect human hair color by blunting methionine sulfoxide repair.FASEB Journal, v. 23, July 2009: 2065-2075.

Read real customer testimonials.

 Author: L.J. O'Neal, writer and researcher. (L.J. is also a Lustrous Henna® user.)

©2010-2013. L.J. O’Neal. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

Do not copy or reprint this article without the consent of the author or Saba Botanical of USA.

Want to view our website? Go to:Saba Botanical of USA

Thank You FACEBOOK FRIENDS for

SHARING OUR SECRET, SHARING OUR JOY and SPREADING OUR LOVE.

Go to our FRIEND page "Lustrous Henna on Facebook". (Become our friend).

"LIKE" US on Facebook, FOLLOW US on Twitter

*Even though our herbal ingredients have been used in natural medicine for centuries, we must add the following disclaimer: The herbs, formulas, and recipes contained within this web site are not to be considered substitutes for proper medical and health care. As with any other medicine, if you are sick, you should consult a physician to find out if the herbal preparations listed here are right for you. Saba Botanical does not make any medical claims nor warranties regarding the use of the products listed on this site. No matter how natural a product is, it may have a potential of causing side effects and allergic reaction on certain individuals. You should consult your physician before taking any medication.

Protein Rich Foods that Nourish a Dry Scalp

  Protein Rich Hair Grows from Protein Rich Diet

Want to give your dry hair a boost? On average hair will grow ¼ to ½ inch each month. Help keep a dry scalp away and encourage hair growth.

100% all natural herbal hair care products are a great help to grow and maintain lustrous, radiant hair –adding a healthy hair diet of protein rich foods will further enhance your all natural beauty.

Protein Rich Foods List

Salmon: Omega-3 fatty acids, protein, vitamin B-12 and iron.

Poultry: High-quality protein, iron.

Eggs: High-quality protein, biotin, vitamin B-12.

Oysters: Zinc.

Low-Fat Dairy Products: Calcium, protein (in whey and casein).

More Protein Rich Foods for Vegetarians

Beans: Protein, iron, zinc, and biotin.

Nuts: Selenium (in Brazil nuts); Walnuts: alpha-linolenic acid; cashews, pecans, almonds: zinc.

Other Healthy Foods and Herbs that:
Can Eliminate Dry Scalp and Encourage Hair Growth

Protein rich foods are not the only help for dry scalp and hair growth. Following a healthy diet that also includes flax seed oil; daily scalp massage increases blood circulation; weekly oil treatment to scalp, washing off in shower after 10-15 minutes will help avoid excessive drying out of skin; frequent mild shampoos that include any or all of the following Ayurvedic herbs:

Shikakai: A pod that’s considered a superior cleanser for "lustrous long hair" and has been reported as "promoting hair growth, eliminates dry scalp and preventing dandruff". Because of these benefits, this pod was named " Shikakai" which translated as, "fruit forhair".

Soapnut: Indian name Reetha fruit is also called Soapnut , as it contains natural soap. Beside excellent cleansing properties, it is known to keep hair and skin soft.

Amla: A wonderful cleansing agent for both the skin and hair. It imparts luster to hair and protects from dandruff, also helps prevent premature graying. Amla stimulates hair growth and strengthens the hair roots.

Fenugreek: Seeds contain essential oil that contains 40 different valuable compounds. People used to soak fenugreek seeds overnight, and in the morning grind them into fine paste and apply them to the scalp for half hour for scalp treatment and removal of dandruff. The hair was then washed with Soapnut solution. The same paste was applied on the face at night before going to bed and then washed with warm water in the morning. This was known to prevent one from getting pimples, dryness and early appearance of wrinkles. It improved complexion and make one look younger.

Where to Purchase

100% natural herbs including Ayurvedic botanicals for hair growth and maintenance:
Saba Botanical of USA

Read real customer testimonials.

Author: L.J. O'Neal, writer and researcher. (L.J. is also a Lustrous Henna® user.)

©2010-2013. L.J. O’Neal. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

Do not copy or reprint this article without the consent of the author or Saba Botanical of USA.

=========================================== =====================

Want to view our website? Go to:Saba Botanical of USA

================================================== ==============

Thank You FACEBOOK FRIENDS for

SHARING OUR SECRET, SHARING OUR JOY and SPREADING OUR LOVE.

Go to our FRIEND page "Lustrous Henna on Facebook". (Become our friend).

"LIKE" US on Facebook, FOLLOW US on Twitter

================================================== ==============

*Even though our herbal ingredients have been used in natural medicine for centuries, we must add the following disclaimer: The herbs, formulas, and recipes contained within this web site are not to be considered substitutes for proper medical and health care. As with any other medicine, if you are sick, you should consult a physician to find out if the herbal preparations listed here are right for you. Saba Botanical does not make any medical claims nor warranties regarding the use of the products listed on this site. No matter how natural a product is, it may have a potential of causing side effects and allergic reaction on certain individuals. You should consult your physician before taking any medication.