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Cottonwood is a magnificent tree that grows in wetlands, floodplains, and riversides. It can be identified by the delicate white hairs on its mature seeds that drift through the air like wisps of cotton or snow. In early spring, you can smell the distinctive balsamic fragrance of the resinous buds, indicating that they are ready to harvest. We start our harvest season by collecting aromatic cottonwood buds in early spring. When the buds are ripe, they secrete a healing resin that leaves an orange-stained, sticky residue on our fingertips. We process these buds immediately to make the most potent oil, which we use to make our healing salves and more. Cottonwood is renowned for its healing properties, and the sticky orange balsamic resin is responsible for its effectiveness. This resin contains salicin and flavonoids, which have similar properties to aspirin, making it an effective pain reliever and anti-inflammatory agent. It can help alleviate conditions such as arthritis, sore muscles and joints, minor injuries, and more. Additionally, the resin's aromatic properties can increase circulation, bringing fresh, oxygenated blood to the injury while removing metabolic waste products, and decrease inflammation. Cottonwood is versatile in topical support and rich in various actions ranging from inflammation modulation to analgesic and antimicrobial properties. It can help ease pain and infections, support skin health, and aid in healing wounds, bruises, sore muscles, and burns. It is a multipurpose remedy that can be used for various purposes. Cottonwood buds have remarkable antimicrobial, analgesic, and astringent properties, making them an essential ingredient for wound care. When applied topically, they can reduce redness, pain, and inflammation and help minor wounds heal faster while preventing infections. Moreover, they can tighten open wounds, minimize scarring, and promote the regeneration of skin cells, making them helpful in treating cold sores, acne, burns, rashes, and various other skin conditions. So, you might be wondering, how do I get the healing properties out of the cottonwood buds?? After harvesting enough buds, I infuse them in organic sunflower oil for 6-8 weeks, sometimes even longer. The longer the infusion, the more potent and fragrant the oil becomes. During this process, the oil extracts the healing properties and sweet fragrance of the buds. I use this rich oil in our Acne-Prone facial line for its soothing and cleansing properties, herbal salves for its antimicrobial, pain-relieving, and supportive properties, and in my muscle and joint product line for its pain-relieving, anti-inflammatory, and circulatory stimulant effects. Although it may seem early to think about tanning, now is a perfect time to soak up the sun and build resilience for the sunnier days ahead! The Power of Gradual Sun Exposure: Regular, moderate exposure to direct sunlight throughout the year helps to gradually increase the production of melanin, increasing your sun tolerance and reducing the risk of sunburn. Spring and early summer are ideal for this process, as they provide the perfect conditions for building resilience in preparation for the sunnier days ahead. What is Melanin? Melanin is a pigment that gives skin, hair, and eyes color. Melanocytes, specialized cells in the skin, hair follicles, and eyes, produce this pigment. Melanin's primary role is to absorb and scatter ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun, which protects against potential DNA damage. Short Bursts for Long-Term Benefits: Contrary to common belief, achieving a beautiful tan doesn't require hours of sunbathing. Just 10-15 minutes of exposure per day can kickstart the melanin production. This brief but regular exposure contributes to a lasting tan and ensures that you take a measured approach to sun absorption, minimizing the risk of sunburn and long-term skin damage. Sun Safety Precautions: While soaking up the sun is beneficial, it's essential to use responsible sun safety measures. Wearing a hat and lightweight clothing, seeking shade when necessary, and incorporating a natural mineral sunblock into your routine are wise precautions. Conclusion: As the days grow longer and the sun's warmth becomes more inviting, seize the opportunity to embrace those rays responsibly. With just 10-15 minutes of daily exposure, you can kickstart the process of building a beautiful tan. Remember to balance your desire for a sun-kissed glow with sensible sun safety practices, ensuring your skin remains healthy, radiant, and protected throughout the seasons.
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Melissa Kruse
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May 2024
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