Â
Between the midterm cramming and pre-spring break workouts it can be easy to forget to squeeze in the small details of our health into an already busy schedule. But naturally being college women, we want to be able to keep every inch of our health and appearance up to par, which explains why there are so many prescription drugs out there for us to do so. However, there are also plenty of ingredients brought to us by our very own Mother Nature, which can be just as effective. Many women on campus have caught on to this and are ditching the prescription drugs for a more natural remedy. Here are just a few of our collegiate’s favorite natural remedies:
Coconut Milk, Avocado and Olive Oil
A coconut milk, avocado and olive oil hair mask is supposed to prevent hair breakage since coconut milk is rich in protein. The avocado and olive oil help moisturize your hair. You take one ripe avocado, half a cup of canned coconut milk, and two tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil and put it all in a blender. After shampooing I put it in my hair and cover it with a shower cap ( to lock moisture) and leave it for 20 minutes. Then you just wash it out with conditioner. I think sometimes it is good to put natural products in your hair as opposed to masks you buy at the store that have been processed. Your hair needs a break too!
Saidelis Mejia- Advertising Junior
Tea Tree Oil
My mom loves homeopathic remedies and she read how tea tree oil is great for acne because it is a natural antiseptic. I apply a really small amount with a Q-Tip on every pimple before going to bed and then wash my face in the morning. It smells really strong but once you get used to it, it’s not that bad. I do it whenever I see one coming or already have one and by the next day it will already begin to go away. I buy the tea tree oil at Whole Foods and it is a little expensive, but the bottle lasts a long time. I rather use tea tree oil than a random spot cleaner because with a spot cleaner you really have no idea the chemical you’re putting on your face.
Elsa Bravo- Psychology Sophomore
Olive Oil and Honey
I pretty much swear by these two ingredients. Every time I have a sore throat honey is the first thing I use. It’s antibacterial and anti-inflammatory qualities and smooth consistency are instantly soothing. I also use honey and olive oil (along with an egg yolk) together as a face mask to maintain clean, healthy skin. Olive oil is also a staple nutrient to have at home when it comes to hair care. Soaking your hair in olive oil for 15-20 minutes (longer time will be more effective), will leave your hair feeling replenished of moisture and with added shine. I am always cautious when considering pharmaceutical beauty products, since many times there is a natural remedy that works just as well or even better. In my case, honey and olive oil have yet to fail me.
Shannon Veguilla- Theatre Sophomore
Sulfur Soap
My favorite natural remedy right now is sulfur soap. I’ve been using it for a week and a half and my skin is clearer than it has ever been! I originally hear about it on Doctor Oz, and picked it up on clearance. It is easier and a lot more effective than a lot of multi- step systems that I’ve tried in the past, like Proactive. All you do is rinse your skin with warm water, apply the soap to a lather, let it dry for 10 minutes like a face mask and rinse off with cold water.
Jessica Salani- Biology SophomoreÂ