If you are a more informed consumer, then I know you would like to make better choices.
Let's look into the problem with fragrances, number 1 on my hit-list to remove from our daily lives!
First let’s look at the FDA's side of the story.
According to the FDA, fragrance is a trade secret and the ingredients in fragrances are not required to be listed. This means the sole word 'fragrance' or 'parfum' on a label can contain a mix of 200 chemicals unknown to you!
The FDA also says that the ingredient phthalate used in cosmetics is diethyl phthalate, or DEP, and "does not pose known risks for human health."
These two statements are not entirely true. So let's break them down to make it easier to understand.
Phthalates are compounds used to softens plastics and also extend the life of fragrances. There are several types of phthalates, with DEP thought to be the least toxic.
We are exposed to phthalates all over the place. It is the cumulative exposure to phthalates that is most problematic. And it is not only DEP used in cosmetics. Its cousins, butylbenzyl phthalate (BBzP), dimethyl phthalate (DMP), diethylhexyl phthalate (DEHP) can be found in hair sprays, aerosol deodorants and perfumes, to name a few.
We are all vulnerable to this cumulative exposure, the most vulnerable population for exposure to phthalates are couples trying to conceive and very young or unborn children. To date this is not openly educated to any of us.
I would personally advise all women and men who want to reduce their exposure not only to endocrine-disrupting phthalate group but the whole soup of chemicals in our environment to reduce your fragrance exposure.
My aim is to make your non-toxic shopping easier and delightful, I have partnered as an independent distributor with Young Living Essential Oils, with our head office and warehouse in Sydney, Australia, order online www.sharonneal.com.au as well as many others all over the world. I know that you'll never get fragrance or any of the numerous other risky chemicals in your products.
Best part is you can shop at www.sharonneal.com.au for family members who aren't on board with non-toxic products yet, and have it shipped directly to them. They'll love the luxurious, non-toxic gifts you gift them, and maybe start to change their ways!
Christmas Spirit Raw Raspberry Slice
Ingredients
BASE
1 cup shredded coconut
1 cup almonds (or nut of your choice)
¼ cup cacao (optional, if you don’t want a chocolaty base leave out)
10 medjool dates
3 tbsp coconut oil, melted
Pinch of salt
FILLING
125g fresh raspberries
1/3 cup shredded coconut
1-2 tbsp raw maple syrup (depending on your taste)
3 tbsp coconut oil, melted
3 drops YL Ocotea essential oil(depending on your taste)
TOPPING
1/3 cup cacao
1/3 cup coconut oil, melted
1-2 tbsp maple syrup
3 drops Christmas spirit essential oil blend (depending on your taste)
Method
BASE
- Line a square tin with baking paper.
- Combine all ingredients in a food processor or high-speed blender until a doughy consistency is reached. if using a blender you may need to soak the dates overnight to soften.
- Transfer dough to tin and press down firmly with hands or back of spoon.
- Place in fridge while you make the filling.
FILLING
- Combine all ingredients in a food processor or high-speed blender until smooth and combined.
- Spoon over base and even out. Place in fridge to set.
TOPPING
- Whisk all ingredients in a small bowl until well combined.
- Pour over filling and spread evenly.
- Set in fridge or freezer if you’re in a hurry.
- Slice before serving.
I personally make a double batch as it is so yummy!
