Inspirations
NATURAL SHAMPOO - 1 important ingredient
Ingredients of natural shampoos Natural shampoo consists of botanical extracts. An example is reetha nuts from India and it is a key active ingredient in our Ayurvedic Shampoos. You will find it in GINGER SHAMPOO and JASMINE SHAMPOO . What are reetha nuts? Reetha nuts, also known as soap nuts or oriental soap nuts, are a popular ingredient used in natural shampoos and hair care products. They have a long history of use in Ayurvedic medicine and are valued for their cleansing and soothing properties. Reetha nuts contain natural cleansing compounds called saponins, which create a lather when in contact with water. This natural lather acts as a cleansing agent, helping to remove dirt, excess sebum and styling product residue from the hair. This makes reetha nuts an alternative to shampoos that contain strong detergents and chemicals that can irritate the scalp. A good natural shampoo contains natural saponins. Natural shampoo for sensitive scalp Using reetha nuts in shampoos is gentle on the skin and hair, making them suitable for those with sensitive skin or allergies. Additionally, reetha nuts have cleansing, antibacterial, and anti-dandruff properties, which can help maintain a healthy scalp and reduce dandruff problems. How do we prepare these “hero ingredients”? To use reetha nuts in a natural shampoo, they are usually ground or crushed first and then placed in a mesh bag or special cooking container. Reetha nuts are boiled in water and then the liquid produced during boiling is used as an ingredient in shampoo. It creates a lather that can be gently massaged into the scalp and hair and then rinsed off with plenty of water. Natural shampoo - ingredients It's worth noting that reetha nuts can be a bit drying for some hair types, especially if used alone without additional moisturizing ingredients. That is why they are often combined with other natural ingredients, such as amla, shikakai, aloe or essential oils, to balance their effects and provide proper hair care. You can find these ingredients in Orientana hair cosmetics - shampoos, conditioners, oils and rubs. You can choose a natural shampoo for all hair types, a natural shampoo for hair with dandruff and a natural shampoo for delicate hair. In summary, reetha nuts are used in shampoos for their cleansing, soothing and purifying properties. They are a popular ingredient in natural hair care, especially for people looking for alternatives to commercial shampoos and wanting to use natural hair care products. Reetha Nuts - Sapindus Muccorosi Sapindus Mukorossi (Soapnut) is one of the oldest cultivated medicinal plants in the world. In fact, botanists have traced it back to the Vedic period about 5,000 years ago. It is a small tree that grows well in the clay soils of tropical and subtropical regions. It has many health benefits, apart from its famous benefit of keeping hair long and healthy, and is also useful in treating lice and dandruff. It is an excellent herb for skin problems such as eczema and psoriasis. Soap powder is a very good antibacterial and antifungal agent. In modern science, it is also used as a detergent, biosurfactant and a remedy for organic soil contamination. An article published in the January 2012 Research Journal of Pharmaceutical Biological and Chemical Sciences discusses the various uses of this plant. Soapberry is widely used in Nepal, where the fruits are collected, dried and used for washing and cleaning. In China, soapwort is traditionally used as a cleansing agent and in Chinese medicine. As in India, in Pakistan soapwort is used as a natural detergent. In Japan, soapberry, known as "enmei", is used in traditional medicine and as a natural shampoo. In Thailand, soapwort is used for both cosmetic purposes and as a cleaning agent. In Indonesia, soapwort is also known and used in traditional care and laundry. In Vietnam, soapberry fruits are used to wash the body, hair and clothes. In recent years, soapwort has been gaining popularity around the world, especially in Western countries, due to the growing interest in ecological and natural cleaning and care products. Soapberry fruits are exported and used in many countries as an ecological alternative to synthetic detergents.
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DIY fragrance pendants
DYI fragrance pendants Have you noticed how important a pleasant smell of the surroundings is to us? We like beautiful smells around us, and many of us refresh not only rooms, but also the interiors of wardrobes and cars. Fragrance pendants can be made at home or bought , but you should always pay attention to whether they are made of natural ingredients. Chemical air fresheners are not healthy for our respiratory system and can cause allergies. How to make scented wardrobe hangers? If we want our wardrobe to have a beautiful and fresh scent, we can try making scented pendants ourselves. Here are some home remedies for wardrobe scents: soy wax fragrance pendant Heat natural wax flakes, add essential oil, pour into a silicone mold and wait for it to harden. You can put such a pendant in a drawer and on shelves. You can also use ready-made vegan fragrance pendants. fragrance pendant in the form of a sachet Cut out any shape from felt, sprinkle with essential oil and hang in the closet on a hanger. dried flower fragrance pendant Dried flowers, such as lavender or rose, will give the wardrobe a pleasant scent. They can be hung in the form of small bouquets. soap scented pendant Hang your favorite soap on a string or put it in a closet on shelves or in drawers. Remember to regularly check and renew the scent in your closet, because after some time, the fragrance ingredients lose their intensity. How to create a long-lasting and natural car fragrance? There are several ways to freshen up your car's scent. Remember that not all freshening scents are equally effective or pleasant, so it's worth experimenting to find the one that suits you best. The right car scent can significantly improve your driving comfort. Here are some home remedies for a nice car scent: regular airing Open your car windows to ventilate the interior and get rid of stale air. Let the fresh air circulate in the car for a few minutes. regular cleaning Clean the interior of your car thoroughly. Vacuum the carpets, wipe down surfaces, including the dashboard, steering wheel, seats and other interior elements. A clean interior is a way to avoid unpleasant odors. air freshening spray Use room perfume spray . Remember to use natural ingredients. Spray the car interior and wait for the scent to spread. You can make them 4. clean upholstery If you have upholstery that has absorbed unpleasant odors, consider having it professionally cleaned. 5. changing the cabin filter Your car's cabin air filter can trap a lot of unpleasant odors. Change it regularly according to the manufacturer's recommendations. 6. wax fragrance pendants Hang a scented pendant made of soy wax on your mirror. It will freshen and make the car smell nicer. 7. essential oils Use essential oils to spread a pleasant scent in the car interior. Apply a few drops of your favorite oil to a tissue or felt. 8. avoiding sources of odors Try to avoid sources of unpleasant odors in the car, such as left-out food, wet clothes or shoes.
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SPRING FESTIVAL IN CHINA - 3 dishes
Chinese New Year, also known as the Spring Festival, has been celebrated for 4,000 years according to the lunisolar calendar, meaning the date is different each year and falls between January 21 and February 20. NEW YEAR IN CHINA The Spring Festival lasts for fifteen days, full of festive feasts and tributes to ancestors. Characteristic are red decorations and fireworks, and a symbolic tradition is eating dumplings, symbolizing wealth. Before the Spring Festival, the Chinese clean their homes and do laundry, which symbolizes the eradication of the past and preparation for the coming of the New Year. On the doors of apartments and houses, they stick pictures of happy scenes from people's lives or New Year's wishes or maxims. Many people also decide to go on vacation. It's worth getting inspired by the colors and motifs from this tradition. Or maybe you'll try traditional New Year's dishes? SPRING FESTIVAL -CHINESE NEW YEAR'S DISHES Chinese cuisine, known for its rich history and diversity, celebrates not only flavors but also traditions and symbolism. One such traditional Spring Festival dish is "labazhou" soup, which has a history of over 1,000 years. Its roots date back to the Song Dynasty, when it was prepared in the imperial palace, official residences, and temples. This soup is especially popular on the eighth day of the twelfth month of the lunar calendar, and its uniqueness lies in the fact that each family prepares its own version of "labazhou". Traditionally, it consists of eight main ingredients and eight additional ingredients, making it not only unique in taste but also a symbolic reflection of Chinese culture. Another traditional Spring Festival dish is "niangao" - a New Year's rice cake, which is an essential part of the Spring Festival. This cake, made of rice, symbolizes the hope for a better, more abundant year. Equally important are Chinese dumplings, which are a mandatory element of the table on the evening before the New Year according to the lunar calendar. Entire families gather together to prepare and eat these delicacies together. Their shape, resembling old Chinese coins, is supposed to bring financial success to the family. And on the first day of spring, according to the lunar calendar, the Chinese celebrate the Spring Festival by eating spring pancakes, which is another example of how closely Chinese cuisine is linked to the calendar and traditions. In 2024, Chinese New Year will fall on February 10, beginning the year of the Wood Dragon according to the Chinese lunar calendar. And you can read about Asian cuisine in previous posts .
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THAILAND and SONGRAN
The Thai New Year, Songkran , is celebrated on April 13. It is best known for the Water Festival, where people throw water at each other in the streets, symbolizing purification and renewal. The word "Songkran" comes from Sanskrit and means "passing of the sun." This is an event associated with the astronomical passage of the sun between the signs of the zodiac, which for Thais marks the beginning of a new cycle. The holiday lasts for three days, from April 13 to 15, and each day has its own symbolic meaning. Traditional visits to temples and offerings of food to monks emphasize the spiritual dimension of the holiday. WATER FESTIVAL IN THAILAND Water plays a key role in the celebration of Songkran. It is a symbol of purification of the soul and body, washing away misfortune and invoking prosperity. Thais visit temples, offering food to the monks, and also douse Buddha statues with scented water. Young people show respect to their elders by pouring water on their hands, while older people wish the younger ones prosperity. The origins of Songkran lie in the tradition of celebrating the New Year around the spring equinox. The custom of pouring water on each other stems from ancient purification practices. Today, the festival draws large crowds, and the streets become arenas for joyful water fights. NEW YEAR IN THAILAND The Songkran Festival combines tradition with the joy of celebrating together. It is a time when Thais return to their hometowns to spend these important days with their loved ones. However, the intensity of the celebrations can affect the prices of accommodation and transport. In the capital, Songkran has its own special charm – parties, processions and festivals spread throughout the city, combining tradition with modernity. Streets such as Khao San and Silom are the heart of the celebrations, where water is the main character of this joyous celebration. Songkran, or Thai New Year, is not just about rituals, but also a celebration of joy, tradition and community. It is a time when Thais and tourists come together in one great escape from everyday life, celebrating tradition and the joy of a new beginning.
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KOREAN NEW YEAR
Korean New Year, Seollal , is also celebrated according to the lunar calendar. It is a time full of unique traditions and customs that reflect South Korea's rich culture. One of the most characteristic aspects of the celebration is visiting family and dressing in hanbok, the traditional Korean dress. During this time, families gather to enjoy traditional foods such as songpyeon, jeon, and tteokguk. Tteokguk, a rice cake soup, in particular, has symbolic meaning - when eaten on New Year's Eve, it symbolizes growing older by another year, which is a unique feature of Korean culture. GAMES AND FUN FOR THE NEW YEAR In Seollal, Koreans also engage in traditional folk games that connect generations. Among the most popular are yutnori, a simple stick game, tuho, an ancient throwing game originally popular among royalty and the upper classes, and neolttwigi, a type of seesaw, especially favored by girls. These games not only provide entertainment, but also strengthen family and social ties. KOREAN TRADITION An important element of the celebration is charye, a memorial service dedicated to ancestors. This carefully prepared ceremony, in which the entire family participates, is intended to honor ancestors and emphasize the importance of remembering them in Korean culture. Interestingly, some foods are forbidden in the offering to ancestors, which further emphasizes the importance and specificity of this tradition. At the end of the Seollal celebration, children show respect to their elders by making a sebae, a ceremonial bow, and in return receive money and words of wisdom. During this time, adults also exchange gifts, which is often associated with numerous promotions in stores and shopping malls. All this makes the Korean New Year not only a time for celebration, but also an opportunity to express respect, gratitude and cherish traditions.
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INDIA, DIWALI AND NEW YEAR
In India, New Year is celebrated on different dates, depending on the region and the calendar used - lunar, solar or lunisolar. New Year in India is a colourful, light and joyful celebration that pays tribute to tradition and community spirit. It is a unique occasion of celebration, encompassing many cultural aspects. DIWALI CELEBRATION Diwali , also known as the Festival of Lights, marks the beginning of a new cycle, celebrating the triumph of good over evil and bringing hope for a better tomorrow. During Diwali, India is awash in light. Millions of oil lamps illuminate homes, rivers are decorated with lanterns, and paper lanterns float in the sky, creating an unforgettable sight. It is also a time of cleansing and refreshing, with Hindus performing cleaning rituals, decorating their homes with flowers, and exchanging gifts. Diwali rituals are full of symbolism. Painting colorful patterns in front of the house is not only an aesthetic gesture – it is also an invitation to the goddess Lakshmi, who symbolizes prosperity and wealth. During this festival, people avoid eating fish and meat, trying to receive the grace of the gods into their lives. Tables are filled with a variety of dishes – from rice with vegetables to sweet delicacies such as semolina pudding or rice candy. DIVERSITY OF TRADITIONS Different customs are present in different regions of India. In the central part of the country, kites are flown, archery competitions and festivals are held. People paint themselves with colored powders, creating wonderful designs on each other. New Year in India is not just one holiday – it is celebrated on different dates depending on the region, so the celebrations last for most of the year. This multi-coloured mosaic of customs, traditions and rituals makes the New Year celebrations in India incredibly diverse and unforgettable for those who have the opportunity to participate in these magical moments.
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JAPANESE NEW YEAR - SHōGATSU
In Japan, New Year (Shōgatsu) is the most important holiday, celebrated according to the Gregorian calendar. Characteristic features include the ringing of temple bells, sending New Year's cards, and giving money to children in small envelopes. JAPANESE NEW YEAR - TRADITIONS New Year in Japan is a magical time, full of unique customs and traditions that distinguish it from celebrations in other parts of the world. The Japanese attach great importance to preparations for this holiday, which is expressed in special care for the home and its surroundings. One of the most characteristic elements of these preparations is decorating homes with kadomatsu, traditional decorations made of bamboo and pine, placed at the entrance to the home, which are supposed to protect against evil and impurities. The purification of the living and spiritual space is key in Japanese preparations for the New Year. The custom known as ōsōji, or great cleaning, includes not only physical cleanliness, but also mental cleanliness. It is a time to tidy up not only the home, but also your thoughts and life, to pay off debts or pay overdue bills. The tradition of the kamidana, or Shinto home altar, is equally important. It is decorated with fresh sakaki tree leaves and shimenawa rope, which is supposed to symbolically separate the sacred from the profane. The offering of kagami mochi, round rice cakes that symbolize the three sacred treasures of Japan, is part of this tradition. JAPANESE NEW YEAR - NEW YEAR'S EVE IN JAPAN New Year's Eve in Japan is primarily a family celebration. During the ceremonial dinner, dishes with symbolic meaning appear, such as soba noodles, symbolizing long life, or kagami mochi. A meal of osechi ryōri, containing black beans, shrimp, and herring roe, is supposed to bring abundance and prosperity to the home. At exactly midnight, bells ring in Japanese temples. You can hear 108 strikes, which symbolize the 108 sins of man or human worries. Nengajō, or New Year's postcards, are an important part of holiday traditions. They are sent to family, friends, and coworkers to emphasize the importance of relationships and mutual respect. Hatsumōde, or the first shrine visit of the New Year, is a key moment of celebration. It is a time for offerings and prayers to ensure good fortune for the coming year. Finally, the Emperor's New Year's Address is an important event where the Japanese monarch extends his best wishes to his subjects. It is an opportunity to reflect on the past year and hope for the future. During this special time, we cannot forget about otoshidama, traditional cash gifts for children to ensure good luck and prosperity in the coming year. New Year in Japan is a unique holiday that combines tradition with modernity, spirituality with everyday life, showing the unique character of Japanese culture.
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RETINOIDS - 7 information
Retinoids are natural or synthetic derivatives of vitamin A, showing structural and/or functional similarities to it. Retinol is a long-chain alcohol that is the basic form of vitamin A, the prototype of all other retinoids. DIVISION OF RETINOIDS If we were to arrange retinoids according to their potency, the order would be as follows: retinoic acid > retinaldehyde > retinol > retinol esters > β-carotene After reaching the keratinocyte cell, retinol is oxidized to retinaldehyde (retinaldehyde) by appropriate enzymes, and this is further oxidized to retinoic acid. HOW RETINOL WORKS Retinoids are fat-soluble, which allows them to penetrate the stratum corneum of the epidermis. and to a small extent they penetrate into the dermis. Reaching the keratinocyte cells, they bind with appropriate receptors, then induce transcription of the appropriate genes. Retinoids stimulate the cellular activity of keratinocytes, fibroblasts, and melanocytes. By interacting with receptors inside cells, they promote their proliferation, strengthen the protective functions of the epidermis, limit transepidermal water loss, protect collagen from degradation and inhibit the activity of metalloproteinases responsible for the degradation of the extracellular matrix. WHO ARE RETINOIDS FOR? Retinoids are widely used in cosmetics, being a strong dermatological agent used in acne, psoriasis and other skin diseases and one of the most effective anti-aging raw materials. RETINOL COSMETICS On the market, you can find cosmetics with this ingredient stabilized and without stabilization. To protect retinoids from degradation, microencapsulated raw materials are used, antioxidants or cyclodextrins are added to the formulation, and appropriately selected packaging that protects against light and oxygen. WHAT MAKES RETINOL H10 SPECIAL? It is important to note that retinoids are unstable compounds that are easily degraded and oxidized in contact with air and light. However, RETINOL H10 ( INCI : Hydrogenated Retinol) is unique in this respect! A modified form of retinol with increased stability, resistance to oxidation, light and high temperatures. The study showed that traditional retinol decomposes after just one hour of exposure to sunlight, while hydrogenated retinol did not undergo any minimal loss even after a week. The double bonds in the polyene chain between carbon atoms become saturated – that is, additional hydrogen atoms are attached to them – hence HYDROGENATION, which causes the bonds between carbons to become single. Alkanes are usually not very reactive, which explains the increased stability of RETINOL H10 but also the lower biological activity (another mechanism of action on the skin). ACTION RETINOL H10 stimulates the synthesis of hyaluronic acid in the dermis and epidermis by activating fibroblasts. This increases the volume of skin tissue, creating a push-up effect that fills wrinkles from the inside. It is worth remembering that it is hyaluronic acid in the skin that acts as a kind of "sponge" that maintains moisture in the skin and is responsible for its firmness and elasticity. As we age, the process of creating hyaluronic acid molecules slows down, contributing to visible changes in the skin. The better the skin is moisturized, the more elastic and resistant to wrinkle formation it is. MILD RETINOL – IS IT POSSIBLE? RETINOL H10 is devoid of irritating properties, characteristic of most retinoids. However, it is worth remembering that it is an active ingredient, so it is worth building tolerance to it, as in the case of classic retinoids. Initially, we recommend using it every 3 days, with time, if there are no irritations, increasing the frequency to every evening. Additionally, to ensure complete safety and improve the results of care, we suggest daily use of creams with a high SPF index. RETINOL H10 can be found in the innovative A DVANCED SKIN LIFT UP SERUM REISHI I RETINOL H10 0.5%
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3 PERFECT COSMETICS FOR MEN
Choosing a gift for a man can be a challenge. Men often value practicality and quality, so it's worth considering something that will not only be useful but also show concern for their well-being and appearance. What do men value in gifts? Practicality and functionality are important features when it comes to gifts for men. They usually prefer gifts that they can use every day, so a shirt, cosmetics, electronic gadgets or everyday items seem to be a good idea. Cosmetics are a very popular gift for men. When choosing them, it is worth remembering that men are increasingly paying attention to the composition of cosmetics, preferring natural and high-quality products. When it comes to cosmetics, it is worth paying attention to products designed for men's skin, such as the bamboo and ginseng anti-wrinkle face cream , bamboo and purple rice face wash gel or the bamboo and tulsi soothing aftershave balm . Is a cosmetics set the perfect gift for a man? The Power Skin for Men set offers comprehensive care tailored to the needs of men's skin. It contains products with a light consistency and a pleasant, masculine scent and in interesting packaging in black with elements of green. In addition, the entire set is in a paper box with an original jacket and does not need additional packaging! The set includes two products that not only care for the skin, but also provide a feeling of freshness and comfort: anti-wrinkle bamboo and ginseng face cream and soothing bamboo and tulsi aftershave balm. Both products, like other Orientana cosmetics, fit into the well-being trend - taking care of one's well-being, which is increasingly appreciated by men. It is worth remembering that men's skin is thicker and secretes more sebum than women's skin. The set contains products designed with the specific needs of men's skin in mind. The key component is bamboo extract, which soothes irritations and strengthens the epidermis. In addition, each cosmetic from the Orientana men's line also contains many other valuable natural ingredients that are designed to support men's skin. Cosmetics as a gift for a man A good idea for a small gift would also be a single natural cosmetic that can be used by both women and men. Examples of such cosmetics are: Ayurvedic Neem and Green Tea Hair Shampoo with a unique, vegan formula inspired by Ayurveda not only nourishes the hair, but is also a great ally in the fight against oily hair and dandruff. Additionally, it wonderfully refreshes the scalp and strengthens the hair structure. Natural hand cream with snail slime has a light consistency and absorbs quickly and has a delicate and neutral scent. It not only moisturizes the skin, but also has regenerative properties and brightens skin discolorations. It leaves an extremely pleasant velvety feel on the hands. The leading active ingredient - snail slime brings deep regeneration and is obtained without any harm to animals. This is an innovative approach to care, in which naturalness goes hand in hand with ethics. Ayurvedic Amla Hair Tonic is a vegan, oil-free tonic that is a favorite of many men because it is effective, has a practical spray bottle and does not require rinsing. It not only refreshes the scalp, but also stimulates hair growth, prevents the growth of bacteria and regulates sebum production. Ayurvedic herbs, led by amla, are traditionally used in Asia for hair care, maintaining its shine, strength and beautiful appearance. When choosing gifts for men, it is worth remembering that natural cosmetics, such as those offered by Orientana , not only take care of appearance, but also well-being and skin health. By presenting a man with a set of high-quality cosmetics, we show him that we care about his well-being.
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