Seaweed Stir fry Recipe - Serves 4 

Ingredients

1 x large onion

2 x sweet peppers

3 x medium carrots

3 x celery stalks

1 x bunch asparagus

1 x head of broccoli florets

14g of dillisk

480g tofu

4 x chilli pods

2 tbspn tamari sauce

4 tbspn coconut oil

Method

Slice tofu into cubes. Add 2 tablespoons of coconut oil into a pan & add tofu, fry on medium heat

Thinly slice onion, pepper, carrots and celery on the diagonal and sauté together with chilli pods in a lightly oiled skillet for 2 to 3 minutes. Add tamari sauce.

Add the broccoli florets to vegetable mixture. Then add asparagus after approximately 5 minutes

Add chopped dulse just before the broccoli is tender (about 5 minutes)

When tofu is brown & firm, add to vegetable skillet & mix well

Serve with some basmati rice and fresh coriander if desired

Our Rainbow Coconut oil is currently on special and is only €5.00 for 500g. Shop online @

http://www.honeybeehealthstore.com/rainbow-organic-coconut-oil.html

We hope you enjoy a little twist to your regular stir-fry!

Yours in Health and Happiness, 

Jenny x

Traditionally used by the Native Americans, Echinacea’s popularity decreased with the introduction of pharmaceutical antibiotics from the 1930’s. The novelty of antibiotics and easier method of administration meant that the Echinacea species were left to thrive with a reduced threat of harvesting

Now cultivated in Europe, Echinacea is widely available for all of us that wish to indulge in Western Herbal Medicine. It may come as a surprise that there is not only one ‘type’ or species of Echinacea. The Echinacea family encompasses nine species of the plant, two of which are most commonly used in therapeutic preparations ~ Echinacea purpurea and angustifolia

Although the verdict is still out about which herb is more effective for specific indications, say anti-viral versus anti-bacterial, there is a clinical understanding that these two species are the most effective to aid the healing of colds and flu-like symptoms

The main actions of Echinacea are:

anti-bacterial

immune stimulant

anti-viral

anti-fungal

anti-inflammatory

wound healing

Echinacea is most commonly used for the following conditions:

common cold

infections of the respiratory tract including middle ear infections

Candida albicans

to boost immunity

reduce inflammation

promote wound healing

Cautions & considerations

It is thought that Echinacea should only be taken for short periods of time – maximum of 8 to 10 days – followed by a break as there is a concern that extended enhancement of the immune system will decrease its naturally ability over time. However there is no clinical studies to support this theory as of yet

Caution is required with people that have allergic tendencies in their families as allergic reactions have been reported, however, they are not common. It is recommended that children under the age of 12 do not take Echinacea (http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/health/news/9487557/Dont-give-children-echinacea-warns-MHRA.html) but again, the spokesman of Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) concluded “there was a theoretical risk of anaphylactic shock, but none had been documented”

It is recommended that individuals with auto-immune diseases avoid the use of Echinacea. If you are on any immunosuppressants, pregnant or lactating please see a qualified medical herbalist before administration

From all of us at Honeybee, try and stay warm and dry as we approach the depths of winter

If you have any questions, please pop in and see us! 

Yours in Health and Happiness, 

Jenny x

What you need:

How to:

What is Propolis?

For thousands of years, Propolis has played a role in the health of humanity. Traditionally, Propolis was used to heal open sores and ulcers, including internal ones. Propolis was said to relieve inflammation and fever, and in World War II it was used to dress wounds sustained in battle.

Propolis has been shown to be effective against harmful bacteria including staphylococcus. It’s also been used to enhance the immune system, which makes it doubly effective as an antibiotic – not only does it kill germs; it also boosts your own germ-fighting capabilities. Propolis Throat Mixture is exclusive to Honeybee Health Stores.

There are 3 main ingredients that make Propolis effective:

Elecampane it is a sedative, anti-fungal, relaxing and warming. Elecampane can soothe the lining of the throat and act as an expectorant for clearing the lungs. For this reason, elecampane may be beneficial in supporting any respiratory condition which produces a lot of mucus.

Horehound activates the immune system and protects the air ways from dust particles being breathed in. It is also beneficial for the liver, help digestion as well as detoxing.

Liquorice is a potent antiviral agent and can be used to treat flu, herpes, and even hepatitis. Liquorice is also a strong anti-inflammatory agent. Liquorice also has been used to treat inflammations of the lungs, bowels, skin and reduces inflammation.

What’s it for?

Primarily, Power Heath Propolis throat mixture is recommended for cold and flu symptoms, specifically sore throats. It is also very effective for anyone suffering from sinus and ear problems. Due to the amount of menthol in the product, it gives an instant relief of congestion.

The herbal blend also is a perfect mixture for reduce a chesty cough, and due to the antibiotic nature of Propolis, it will also aid a chest infection. It can also be used with all OTC decongestants, and doesn’t pose any risk for people on blood pressure medication.

Who can’t take it?

Everyone can take Propolis, but it can sometimes cause reactions in people that are allergic to bee stings. Also, diabetics should be careful while taking this product due to the glucose and molasses that this product contains. Ask our staff in store Honeybee Health Store and online at Honeybee Health Stores

How much?

1-12 years of age: 1 5ml teaspoon, when required up to five times daily.

12 years+: 2 5ml teaspoons when required, up to five times daily.

150ml Propolis - €6.95

300ml Propolis - €13.95

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We at Honeybee Health Store stock a wide range of brands and products and we know it can be daunting and confusing to know where to begin especially if you are  un-sure of your skin type. In this post we have listed out the different skin types and a random selection of products that may suit that skin type. Our skin will change at various times of year depending on seasons but we all have a regular underlying skin type

We have chosen from  La Roche Posay and Trilogy  brands which are both stocked in-store and online at www.honeybeehealthstore.com and  www.molloyspharmacy.com.

** Important to note, we all should use an SPF of at least 50 every day before we go outside even on the dullest day of the year, the sun gives out harmful rays that cause irreversible damage. La Roche Posay are the leading brand of sun care for you and your family**

DRYNESS-PRONE SKIN

In wintry weather this type of skin feels dry and may become tight and sore. Your skin may feel tight after cleansing, until you apply moisturiser. Skin can appear dry and lack softness and smoothness.

How to treat, you may feel like you want to layer lots of moisturiser on but remember to use gentle products to cleanse and tone your face as it is at this stage that the oils are stripped away. Also remember to use a hydrating mask every week.

Our top picks for this skin type would be:

La Roche Posay Iso-urea body milk  (€21.50)

Smoothing body milk to help relieve the symptoms of dryness and reduce the roughness of dry skin on the body.

La Roche Posay Lipikar Baume Ap+ (€12.00)

A unique, non-sticky texture is proven to hydrate skin, leaving your skin feeling soothed and comfortable. It is also suitable for sensitive skin.

Trilogy Rosehip Oil Antioxident:( €39.95)

Unique formulation Rosapene provides intense hydration plus a daily antioxidant protection.

Trilogy Rosapene Night Cream (€32.95)

Revive, restore and rehydrate.

OILY SKIN

Some say this type of skin is fortunate as it shows the signs of aging later than the others. If you have oily skin, you may be prone to problems like blemishes, enlarged pores and congested skin, particularly around the forehead, nose and chin. Your skin may have a shiny appearance and visible pores.

How to treat, look for products that will cleanse your skin effectively, but not strip it of moisture. Oily skin can become dehydrated-looking if your cleansing routine is too harsh. If you’re prone to congestion and blocked pores, gentle exfoliation is important. Use a light-textured moisturiser that absorbs easily.

Our top picks for your type skin would be:

La Roche Posay Serozinc (€9.95)

Mattifying mist for oily, blemish prone skin.

La Roche Posay EFFACLAR DUO+ UNIFIANT (Medium) 40ml (€18.00)

Oily, blemish-prone skin. Specifically formulated for sensitive skin and also tested on acne-prone skin. Containing all of the award winning blemish control efficacy of the best-sellerEffaclar DUO [+] now with sheer coverage. Corrects the appearance of blemishes. Pores look unclogged. Skin texture looks refined. Controls the appearance of shine.

Trilogy Rosehip Oil Light Blend 30ml (€36.95)

Original hydration but in a lighter form.

Trilogy Exfoliating Body Balm (€32.95)

This natural body polisher leaves skin silky-smooth and hydrated, and the buttery texture makes it a luxe treat

COMBINATION SKIN

This skin type consisting of oily patches and normal/dry patches is very common especially with our Irish climate.Usually, the oily skin is concentrated around the nose, chin and forehead, while the cheeks tend to be drier, although this varies from person to person.

How to treat this type, the best approach for many is to use assorted products on various parts of the skin. You might choose a hydrating masque but concentrate the application on your cheeks, or use a gentle exfoliating scrub only around the nose and chin. If you’re prone to blemishes, look for a targeted product that you can apply to the specific area like the La Roche Posay EFFACLAR DUO+ UNIFIANT (Medium) 40ml 

La Roche Posay Sensitive Skin Ultra-Fine Scrub (€14.25)

Gently purifies and smooth's all types of sensitive skin. The product has agents selected for optimal tolerance and a physiological pH. It is also enriched with La Roche-Posay Thermal Spring Water.

SENSITIVE SKIN

Any type of skin can be sensitive at times. The signs of skin sensitivity vary from person to person, but if your skin is sensitive you may find it reacts poorly to certain makeup and skincare products. It might also change when the weather gets warmer or colder, and need various kinds of care at different times. Sensitive skin also tends to be prone to redness. Always look for products that are formulated for sensitive skin. It’s also good if they are hypoallergenic. Notice how your skin reacts to different products and the environment where you live and work. This can help you adjust your routine or avoid any triggers. Look for products that have a soothing effect on the skin to help calm any discomfort. 

La Roche-Posay Hydraphase Intense Light 50ml (€22.00)

A complementary step to your skincare routine, with high performance intensive hydration. Hydraphase Intense contains ingredients to intensively hydrate, soothe and comfort the skin, while improving skin's suppleness and softness.

Trilogy Very Gentle Cleansing Cream (€25.95)

Soothe and cleanse the weakened skin barrier and care for easily irritated skin.

If you have any more queries regarding your skin’s needs don’t hesitate to call into our skincare experts in-store or contact our online team at honeybeehealthstore@gmail.com 

Have a great day and don’t forget the SPF!

Tracey x

We aim to provide a recipe that has ingrediants you can pick up in your local Honeybee Health Store

What you will need:

• 2 heaped tablespoons of NUA NATURALS CACAO PWDR 
• 2 teaspoons of BIONA ORGANIC COCONUT MILK 
• 16 BENEVITS DATES
• 125g of chopped BENEVITS ORGANIC CASHEW 
• 30g of BENEVITS GROUND ALMONDS
• Pinch of salt
• 2-3 drops of vanilla essence (optional)

What to do:

1. Add all the ingredients into a blender, except the ground almonds. Blend them together until they turn into a dough-like mixture.
2. With your hands roll the mixture into small balls – this mixture should give you approximately 12.
3. Roll the balls in the ground almonds.
4. Place in the fridge for them to set for 2-3 hours.
5. Enjoy!

As a community Pharmacist I have seen the dramatic rise in this condition over the last twenty years. Some would consider IBS an illness of our times, with large amounts of stress and bad diets being possible significant contributors. 

IBS is a disorder of the large bowel in which the bowel overreacts to a mild stimulus – such as eating or the presence of gas. It is also known as spastic colon. IBS is characterised by abdominal pain, bloating and irregular bowel habits – including alternating diarrhoea and constipation.
 
IBS appears to be due to an abnormal, exaggerated response of the muscles of the intestinal walls; however, it is not known exactly why some people develop the disorder. It can sometimes develop after a gastrointestinal infection, and there are also a number of factors that may set it off – including dietary, psychological, hormonal and genetic factors. Stress and depression are known to contribute to flare-ups.

There are no specific tests for irritable bowl syndrome, and so your doctor will normally make a diagnosis on the basis of your symptoms and after ruling out various other disorders – such as colon cancer and Crohn's disease. Diagnostic tests that may be carried out to rule out these other disorders include blood tests, stool analysis, x-ray and endoscopy of the bowel.

Treatment for IBS will depend on the degree of your symptoms. Some people may find particular foods set off their IBS. Making changes to the diet can help to control symptoms for many people with IBS.

These may include:

• Changing to a high-fibre diet including Multifibre plus from the Benevits range of Vitamins and supplements which have been developed by ourselves. 
• Choosing more fruit, vegetables, whole-grain breads and cereals as this helps to soften stools and relieve constipation
• Avoiding tea and coffee and swapping for herbal teas such as peppermint and chamomile
• Drinking more water (6-8 glasses a day is recommended)
• Cutting out vegetables that produce gas, such as beans
• Cutting out spicy and fatty foods
• The addition of a probiotic (Benevits) will reseed the gut and improve the gut flora.

For some, lifestyle changes may not be enough to manage symptoms and medical treatment may also be necessary.

If you suspect you may have the symptoms of IBS please talk to your GP or call into any of our 7 Molloys Lifestyle Pharmacists and Honeybee Health Stores

James.

Beauty Complex is the newest addition to the Revive Active range and as with all Revive Active products, Beauty Complex contains the highest quality ingredients in optimum quantities.

We are now becoming used to, and feeling the benefits of, feeding and nourishing our skin through these very different approaches:

1. Diet 
2. Supplements
3. Topical Skincare

Obviously, the number one major contributor to clear, healthy skin is water. We should be drinking the recommended 2 litres of water per day to see the natural benefits of H20. Our diets have changed over the last number of years, especially the Irish diet. We now are optimising our diet and seeing the benefits in our skin.

Once we have a healthy eating regime put in place the next step to make sure our skin stays youthful and clear is the extra supplements we take to replace what we are lacking due to diet, climate or medication.

The outward condition and appearance of the skin, nails and hair, are often considered indicators of health. Nutritional imbalances are sometimes outwardly apparent, demonstrating the importance of good nutrition for one’s appearance. As skin is the largest organ of the body and barrier from the environment, it is most susceptible to the effects of reactive oxygen species also known as free radicals.

This is where it may become confusing, where do you start? What do you start with? Where does it end? Finally, who do I trust to give me what I am looking for? i.e. a fool proof skincare regime from the inside out. Simple, here is your answer, for healthy skin, for anti-aging, to replace anything you lose through medication or diet these three products are all you need and they all available  in our honeybee online store

1.  Astaxanthin 5 mg
2.  Nutri-nano CoQ-10 (for its antioxidant benefits)
3.  Skin Nails and Hair

Astaxanthin 5 mg

Astaxanthin is a pinkish-red carotenoid that gives salmon and flamingos their distinctive colour. Found in the micro-algae, Haematococcus pluvialis, astaxanthin is classified as a xanthophyll carotenoid, meaning that it does not convert into vitamin A, yet still has effective antioxidant properties of its own. Impressively, astaxanthin has the ability to extend the life of other antioxidants within the body, such asvitamins C, E and lutein.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                     (www.solgar.co.uk)

One main area of interest centres on the effect that astaxanthin has on skin health and integrity. Studies have shown that this carotenoid can protect the skin and eyes from the damage caused by ultraviolet rays from the sun(astaxanthin functions as a natural sunscreen for marine plants).

Sun damage is thought to be one of the main causes of premature ageing of the skin.

In fact, astaxanthin is often referred to as an internal sunscreen and it may also prevent other types of oxidative damage to cells throughout the body.

Studies have shown that astaxanthin may rejuvenate skin from within due to its ability to scavenge skin-damaging free radicals.

Astaxanthin is widely distributed throughout the body, but is most concentrated in the skin, where it’s present in all skin layers.

Several human studies demonstrate that oral supplementation of astaxanthin for at least two weeks can reduce crow’s feet wrinkles, water loss, and age spot size while enhancing moisture content, elasticity, and skin texture in both men and women.

*If you are pregnant, nursing, taking any medication or have a medical condition, please consult your healthcare practitioner before taking this product. *

Nutri-nano CoQ-10

What do we need this product for?

Basically, the skin is the first barrier between the body and the environment, which is why it is important to keep it healthy and functioning correctly. This barrier can often come under “attack” from UV rays, smoke, pollution and cold air. These environmental factors can affect the integrity of skin by drying it out, blocking pores or causing damage.

Here comes the science bit:

“Exposure to UVA ray’s result in development of Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) in skin cells. These molecules can mediate damage to DNA and damage cellular proteins, lipids and saccharides. Collagen is the molecule that gives the skin its elasticity and firmness, meaning the breakdown of collagen can result in wrinkles. This often occurs in areas of the skin which are commonly exposed to the sun: face, neck, arms and legs. As we age the amount of CoQ-10 in our cells decreases, providing us with less protection against ROS production from UV ray exposure. CoQ-10 is known to have antioxidant properties which have been shown in studies to help protect skin cells against ROS. It is thought that an increase in ROS results in an increased production of cellular proteins which degrade collagen in the skin. Various studies have shown that CoQ-10 helps reduce the synthesis and secretion of collagen-degrading proteins, suggesting its supportive role in maintaining skin firmness and avoiding the appearance of wrinkles, especially on areas most exposed to UV rays. 7Solgar's exclusive Nutri-Nano Co-Q-10 is the most bioavailable form of Co-Q-10. It is shown to be more bioavailable than traditional Co-Q-10 and has been shown to be absorbed faster and more efficiently. It was formulated with patent-protected and award winning technology.”

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                             (www.solgar.ie)

*If you are pregnant, nursing, taking any medication or have a medical condition, please consult your healthcare practitioner before taking this product*

Skin, Nails and Hair Formula Tablets

This is a basic but very important supplement to be taking daily. Yet again diet and our climate effects not only our skin but our hair and nails. This little product is a good combination to support healthy skin, hair and nails.

The primary ingredient is MSM or sulphur which plays an essential part in the synthesis of collagen and keratin, vital protein substances that are needed to make and maintain healthy skin, hair and nails.

Studies have shown that hair grows faster and stronger with good levels of sulphur. Studies have also shown it to help block the cross-linking of collagen, which may slow the appearance of skin wrinkles.

Who doesn’t want to slow down wrinkles appearing? Some of the ingredients within this little product a lot of people usually take individually:

“Vitamin C Collagen is the most plentiful protein in the body; it makes up 70% of the dry weight of human skin and is a highly flexible structure. Vitamin C is essential for the formation of collagen and sulfur active bonds (disulfide bonds) that hold collagen fibers together. Structural deterioration that occurs within skin’s connective tissue is due to progressive cross-linking of protein within collagen fibers. Known as the “cross linking theory” the increased cross-linking defragments its natural chemical structure and causes “stiffening” or “folding” within the tissue (wrinkles).

L-Lysine and L-Proline Collagen in the skin contains hydroxyproline and hydroxylysine, which are formed from the amino acids proline and lysine (vitamin C is needed for this conversion).

Zinc is required for protein synthesis and cell growth. The important role that zinc plays in normal skin function is well documented. Approximately 6% of total body zinc is located in the skin and is found in both the epidermis and dermis, though at levels five-fold higher in the epidermis. Within the skin, zinc stabilises cell membranes and serves as an essential cofactor for several enzymes.

Studies show that zinc deficiency symptoms include hair loss, skin conditions (including acne) and delayed wound healing. Zinc supplements have been used in preliminary studies to help relieve acne. The studies suggest that zinc may have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects and that it may decrease sebum (oil) production.”

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                   (www.solgar.ie)

*If you are pregnant, nursing, taking any medication or have a medical condition, please consult your healthcare practitioner before taking this product*

So, they are the three unique but very important supplements we here at Honeybee Health Store recommend our customers to take. They can be taken individually or together for optimum skin health.

Finally, to answer the question of who do I trust to provide these skincare supplements?

Easy, its Solgar, Solgar have been innovating and producing excellent quality nutritional supplements and they have been setting the Gold Standard for nutritional supplements.

Our staff at Honeybee Health Store have been trained by Solgar Practitioners and we pride ourselves on the level of knowledge we can deliver to our customers, if you have any further queries don’t hesitate to contact us here or call into any of our stores.

The next step in perfecting your skincare regime is topical creams and serums. This will be covered in the next part of this series on skincare.

Thanks for reading and here is to a lifetime of happy and healthy skin!

Tracey.