Melanie – Page 4 – Happy Body Formula

All posts, Natural Living

12 Ways to Use Herbs in Your Home (Other than Cooking!)

Even if you don’t have a herb garden (whether it be a few pots on your windowsill or meters of herbs planted in your backyard), fresh herbs are just a supermarket trip away.

We all love to cook with them, but did you know herbs can also be used in a number of fun and helpful ways around your home?

From bathroom products such as body scrubs and soaps, to cleaning sprays, room perfumes and decorative hangings – herbs go beyond garnishing your favorite meal.

If you’re looking for ways to use herbs in and around your home, then you’re in luck. We’re sharing 12 brilliant DIY herb projects below!

1. THREE WAYS TO TURN LEFTOVER HERBS INTO CLEANING PRODUCTS FROM THE KITCHN

Summertime often brings an abundance of herbs, so if you’ve got some extra bunches lying around your home, why not turn them into not one, but three of these genius (and all-natural) cleaning products?

This tutorial will show you how to use herbs as natural pest repellents, to add additional benefits and aromas to natural cleaning products, and to infuse in vinegar. So clever!

2. HOMEMADE MINT SUGAR SCRUB FROM THE FAMILY FREEZER

Here’s a simple homemade mint sugar scrub that you can make in five minutes or less with ingredients from your grocery store, as well as some trusty herbs. It’s exfoliating, moisturizing, and so easy to make! The best part?

It takes advantage of all of the fresh mint available this time of year, so you don’t have to let any go to waste.

3. HERBAL SOAP WITH ROSEMARY AND PEPPERMINT FROM LOVELY GREENS

This pretty and herbal soap contains essential oils, mineral color, and dried herbs and flowers, making it not just smell great, but be excellent for your skin too.

When it comes to decorating these soaps, feel free to use whichever herbs take your fancy – whether it be mint, rosemary, chamomile, or more. The herbs don’t just act as a decoration, but also work to exfoliate your dead skin cells.

4. ESSENTIAL OIL ROOM SPRAY DIY FROM JOJOTASTIC

This eucalyptus essential oil spray smells so peaceful and has the added benefit of boosting immunity due to its antimicrobial properties, making it wonderful to spritz around during flu season.

It’s just a three-ingredient process: water, essential oil, and witch hazel, which can then be adorned with your favorite herbs to boost its fragrance (and health properties) even more.

5. ROSEMARY AND PEPPERMINT ENERGIZING SHOWER SOAP FROM GARDEN THERAPY

The scent of rosemary is used in aromatherapy to promote focus, memory, and reduce brain fog, while peppermint is claimed to help energize and refresh the mind and body.

That’s what makes this soap so beneficial for your morning shower, as it instantly puts you in a positive mood to start the day. Rosemary is also commonly used as a natural deodorizer, making this one all-natural soap that totally works.

6. HERBAL BATH MILKS FOR WINTER FROM WILL FROLIC FOR FOOD

Bath milk recipes usually include milk powder, but this dairy-free version uses finely powdered oats as a great substitute for milk powder, still creating a luxurious, skin-softening and calming bath.

In this tutorial, you’ll find not one, but three luscious recipes for bath milk, containing goodness such as Epsom salts, clay, jojoba oil, essential oils, and of course, dried herbs!

7. DIY CALMING CHAMOMILE BATH OIL FROM HELLO GLOW

This DIY calming chamomile bath oil is wonderfully soothing, not just for skin but also for an anxious mind. This herb-infused bath oil contains dried chamomile flowers and essential oils such as lavender, rosemary, cedarwood, and camphor.

Then there’s beneficial ingredients such as sweet almond oil and fractionated coconut oil for moisture. Sounds divine!

8. DIY CITRONELLA CANDLES WITH HERBS FROM ON SUTTON PLACE

These DIY candles smell wonderful and repel mosquitoes naturally, making it a safer and healthier version than other store-bought alternatives.

They’re the perfect addition to any outdoor space, plus they make a pretty table centerpiece when entertaining guests. You can add herbs such as rosemary, basil, thyme and lavender, along with lemon and lime slices.

9. ROSEMARY PRESSED HERB CANDLES FROM GARDEN THERAPY

These DIY pressed candles aren’t just a great way to try your hand at making candles, but they’re also a wonderful excuse to use up any herbs in your garden.

This project uses a mix of beeswax and soy wax, Mason jars, pressed rosemary leaves, and essential oils. Rosemary looks great in these candles, but you can also use herbs like thyme or lavender that are readily available in the garden, grocery store, or garden center.

10. DIY NATURAL ROOM SCENTS FROM THE YUMMY LIFE

Simply simmer water infused with spices, herbs, and fruit to make your very own natural room scents. Any herb can be used for making a room scent, but the ones that are sturdier and on woody twigs hold up the best.

This tutorial recommends using rosemary and thyme. Simply pair them with ingredients such as lemon, pine or cedar twigs/needles, spices (such as cinnamon sticks or cloves), and extracts.

11. DIY HERBAL DREAM PILLOWS FROM GARDEN THERAPY

The herbal blend used in these DIY dream pillows is specifically chosen to release a fragrance that will promote calm and send you off to dreamland in a matter of minutes.

We all know how important a good night’s sleep is, but many find it hard to fall asleep quickly, not to mention to stay that way until the sun rises. These perfect little pillows contain ingredients such as dried hop heads, dried chamomile flowers, dried lavender buds, dried rose petals, and dried mint leaves.

12. MAKE YOUR OWN HERB DRYING RACK FROM HELLO GLOW

Your garden might be overflowing with fresh herbs, but many DIY projects and recipes will often call for the herbs to be dry. Now, we all know that dried herbs can cost a small fortune at the supermarket, which is why your very own herb drying rack can come in handy.

Don’t see the need to dry your herbs? Why not use this as a beautiful decoration within your home (like an alternative chandelier) when guests come over for dinner? Genius!

Time Inspire Your Home With These Amazing Herb Ideas

There you have it – 12 ways to use herbs in your home that you’re sure to love!

Remember, even if you live in the tiniest apartment in the world, you can still benefit from utilizing herbs in your everyday life – whether they’re store-bought or straight from the garden. Herbs contain wonderful health and beauty benefits, plus they give off beautiful aromas to fill your home with.

What’s great about the DIY projects listed above, is that it doesn’t matter how experienced you are at crafting – there’s something on this list for everyone.

Start with the project you feel most comfortable with (like infusing some oil with fresh herbs), then work your way up to those that might take more time and energy.

It’s time to embrace the natural wonders of herbs!

Which herb project will you be tackling this weekend? We’d love to hear from you in the comments section below.

Melanie

Melanie Clarke is the founder of Whim Online Magazine, an online magazine based in Australia that has a strong focus on whimsical + dreamy photography, as well as art and fashion content.

All posts, Beauty & Skin Care

13 Homemade Shampoo Bar Recipes for All Hair Types

If you’ve never heard of shampoo bars (also known as solid shampoo) before, then you’re in for a treat. A shampoo bar resembles a regular cake of soap, however it’s designed to be used on your hair.

Unlike the majority of store-bought liquid shampoos, soap bars are made from many natural ingredients such as vegetable oils, vegetable butters, essential oils and other nutritives especially beneficial to the hair and scalp.

It’s also important to note that a shampoo bar naturally lathers, allowing the solid shampoo to easily work its way through your hair. Regular liquid shampoos, however, often have harsh and artificial additives which helps the mixture to form a lather.

The problem with this is that these chemicals can be detrimental to our hair and scalps, causing dryness and irritation, including disorders such as dry skin, psoriasis, or eczema.

If you’re a frequent user of liquid shampoo, don’t fret. Shampoo bars aren’t just inexpensive, but they’re also incredibly easy to make yourself using a few ingredients at home.

We’ve rounded up the 13 best DIY shampoos bars to help you out, including many of which you can make this afternoon!

1. ECO-FRIENDLY SHAMPOO BARS FROM SMARTICULAR

While many shampoo bars have been designed for dry and brittle hair, these DIY bars are perfect for those with hair prone to oiliness.

To make a few months’ supply of solid shampoo, you just need a handful of ingredients, including cocoa butter or shea butter, vegetable surfactant SLSA, corn starch, 10-20 drops of essential oil, and food coloring (if you want to make colorful bars, like those pictured).

2. SOLID SHAMPOO BARS FROM CHASING SIMPLICITY

Shampoo bars are a great way to reduce plastic usage and avoid some of the chemicals that are found in liquid shampoo. One of the great things about shampoo bars is that they don’t need preservatives or emulsifiers, however they can last up to four times longer than liquid shampoo.

These solid shampoo bars take inspiration from two popular recipes, whilst adding their own colorful spin through the use of natural food coloring.

3. MERMAID SILK SHAMPOO BARS FROM HUMBLEBEE AND ME

These beautiful DIY shampoo bars are inspired by mermaids and feature pretty colors, a lovely shimmery top and a fantastic, fresh scent. The base of this bar is a high-lather blend of moisturizing olive oil, bubbly coconut oil, rich shea butter, hardening tallow, and luxurious castor oil.

Once completed, you’ll love the various colorful layers, as well as the textured top layer. Why not make a whole batch of these to give to your loved ones? They’ll adore them!

4. CHAMOMILE TEA AND HONEY SHAMPOO BAR RECIPE FROM THE NERDY FARM WIFE

This shampoo bar recipe combines the simple goodness of chamomile tea with nourishing honey to create a wonderful lathering experience for your hair. This tutorial shares both a hot process for making the bars, as well as a cold process.

Ingredients include olive oil, coconut oil, castor oil, avocado oil, shea butter, sweet almond oil, cooled chamomile tea, lye, and honey mixed with distilled water. This should make 7 to 9 bars!

5. DEAD SEA MUD SHAMPOO BARS FROM THE NATURAL BEAUTY WORKSHOP

This recipe for dead sea mud shampoo bars combines the fortifying minerals of Dead Sea Mud with a moisturizing blend of conditioning fats including argan, jojoba, and shea.

Not only is it great for cleansing your hair, but it also works to clarify your scalp too. This shampoo bar is so gentle, in fact, that it can also be used as a soap on your body. You can also try swapping the essential oils for your own custom blend to make this formula your own.

6. HOMEMADE SHAMPOO BAR WITH LAVENDER AND CLAY FROM ELA VEGAN

This homemade shampoo bar contains organic oils (such as extra virgin olive, coconut, shea, and castor), soothing clay and the most beautiful smelling lavender and rosemary essential oils.

These ingredients help to nourish the hair shaft, while encouraging strong, healthy, and shiny hair. To use shampoo bars, start by wetting your hair thoroughly, then rub the shampoo bar directly onto your hair from scalp to ends. Work up the lather with your hands and add more water if needed.

7. HOMEMADE ROSEMARY MINT SHAMPOO BARS FROM GROW FORAGE COOK FERMENT

The main difference between soap and shampoo bars is that shampoo bars are made with oils that are known for hair care, such as jojoba or argan oil. This brilliant recipe also uses rosemary and mint, both which offer a number of benefits for your hair and scalp.

You can even use these as a regular soap on your face or body, as they contain gentle and nourishing ingredients. While the soap takes just an hour and 30 minutes to prep and cook, it will need to cure for around 28 days.

8. DIY SHAMPOO BAR RECIPE WITH ROSE ESSENTIAL OIL FROM JOJOTASTIC

These DIY shampoo bars might look pretty, but they’re also seriously good for your tresses. Containing beneficial ingredients such as rose essential oil, olive oil, coconut oil, shea butter, castor oil, dried rosebuds, and more, you’ll be surprised by how sweet these soap bars smell!

After your scalp adjusts to the new formula, your hair will be super soft, shiny and feel healthier all-around.

9. MANGO MANGO SHAMPOO BAR FROM HUMBLEBEE AND ME

This homemade shampoo bar gets more scientific than most, using a wide range of ingredients which may seem hard to pronounce, but promise to be gentle on your hair and scalp.

The addition of essential oils also works wonders at not only helping your hair to smell heavenly, but also to soothe, hydrate, clarify, and more. Perhaps what you’ll love the most about this shampoo bar is its gorgeous mango scent, which will fill your bathroom every time you use it.

10. LAVENDER AND MINT HOMEMADE SHAMPOO BAR RECIPE FROM THE DIARY OF A FRUGAL FAMILY

There are lots of advantages to using a homemade shampoo bar – the main one being that you know exactly what is in it and there are no harsh chemicals that could strip your hair of its natural oils.

This pretty-as-a-picture lavender and mint version uses gentle and natural ingredients such as goats milk soap base, cocoa butter, coconut oil, vitamin E oil, apple cider vinegar, and essential oils to not only make your hair smell great, but look and feel great too.

11. COCONUT MILK SHAMPOO STICKS FROM SMALL FOOTPRINT FAMILY

With its high lauric acid content, coconut milk ensures this shampoo bar recipe has a bubbly lather and extra creamy feel, while jojoba oil adds a touch of luxury that’s fantastic for promoting healthy, shiny hair.

The stick-like shape of these shampoo bars are also a nice alternative to more traditional bars, as its easier to handle in the shower and more convenient to stow away into your gym locker, handbag, or more.

12. DIY NO-LYE SHAMPOO BAR FROM SO GREEN SO GOOD

Some people don’t like to work with lye when making their shampoo bars, but here’s a recipe that uses an organic, pre-made melt-and-pour soap base instead of the common ingredient.

As a recipe that’s perfect for beginner soap makers, the solid shampoo also just requires a handful of additional ingredients, including castor oil, shea butter, and essential oils of your choosing. The recipe recommends mesmerising combinations of ylang-ylang and geranium, as well as lemon and bergamot.

13. DIY CITRUS SHAMPOO BAR FROM POPSUGAR

This bar’s moisturizing base is made from oatmeal soap and nourishing oils, while the orange zest adds a refreshing citrus scent. The rosemary and salt also help to strengthen and add volume to your hair.

Not only is this bar all-natural and sulfate-free, but it’s also easy to take on the go! Plus, it’s filled with beneficial essential oils, including grapefruit and orange. They just need to be set overnight before you can begin using them on your tresses.

Which Shampoo Bar Recipe Will You Make?

There you have it – 13 DIY shampoo bars for softer, healthier, and more beautiful hair. Not only do many of these shampoo bars contain all-natural ingredients, but switching to solid, homemade alternatives also helps you to do a good deed for the environment by cutting down on plastic packaging and waste.

These shampoo bar recipes show that anyone can create their own safe and natural hair products – no science degree needed! Once you feel more confident, you can even begin experimenting with these recipes and adding your own essential oil combinations to see which ones you like best.

Which DIY shampoo bar will you be trying this weekend? We’d love to hear from you in the Comments section below!

Melanie

Melanie Clarke is the founder of Whim Online Magazine, an online magazine based in Australia that has a strong focus on whimsical + dreamy photography, as well as art and fashion content.

All posts, Recipes

22 Simple Simmer Pot Recipes for a Sweet-Smelling Home

We’ve all been here before: you’ve got guests arriving within the hour, but your home is smelling not-so-pleasant, whether it be from a pet, someone’s smelly shoes, or that freshly laid manure in the backyard.

You’ve run out of sweet-smelling, natural candles and don’t want to drown your environment with air freshener spray that’s laden with harmful toxins. Rather than spiral into a panic, you can quickly and easily refresh your home and give it a beautiful aroma using nothing more than a handful of common ingredients, your stove top, and a pot.

Simmer pots, also known as simmering potpourri, are anything but new, but recently they’ve picked up in popularity due to their clean, harmless, and chemical-free nature.

You simply take a handful of ingredients (such as herbs, fruit, flower petals, etc.) and let them bubble away in a pot until you no longer require their perfume. Intrigued? You’ll be pleased to know we’ve rounded up 22 of the best simmer pot recipes below.

Here’s how you can quickly and easily transform your home into a sweet-smelling paradise!

1. ROSE EUCALYPTUS SIMMERING POTPOURRI FROM GET GREEN BE WELL

This rose eucalyptus simmering potpourri is the perfect idea for a homemade, natural air freshener! Plus, it’s so easy to make when you have a bouquet of roses that are starting to fade.

Both roses and eucalyptus contain natural essential oils for aromatherapy and when combined in a simmering pot, they’re also visually stunning. Did you know you could even use this simmering pot to clear blocked sinuses from a cold or flu?

The eucalyptus is ideal for assisting with this!

2. HOLIDAY SCENTED STOVE TOP SIMMER POTPOURRI FROM DOMESTIC DREAMBOAT

Make your house smell like it’s ready for the holidays with kitchen scraps and pantry staples in this holiday scented stove top simmer. The best thing about this recipe (other than its incredible, festive aroma, of course) is the fact that it’s flexible, so if you happen to be missing one of the ingredients, it’s not a big deal!

Just throw everything into a small saucepan, cover it with water and bring it to a simmer. Reduce the heat so it’s just steaming, and your house will be fragrant for hours!

3. ‘CHRISTMAS IS IN THE AIR’ SIMMERING POTPOURRI FROM STONE GABLE

If you’d love the aroma of cloves, cinnamon, orange and other wonderful spices wafting through the air, then this Christmas inspired simmering potpourri is for you!

As this recipe explains, no room spray or candle can recreate the aroma of real spices and other Christmas goodies gently simmering on the stove.

This one uses a combination of ingredients such as dried lemon peel, whole cloves, star anise, dried cranberries, nutmeg, allspice, cinnamon sticks, dried orange peel, and mulling spices.

4. SPICED CRANBERRY SIMMER POT FROM CARRIE COLBERT

There’s something about the combination of spices and cranberries in this simmer pot that will make you think of Christmas and wintertime. While this one might look extremely pretty, it also uses common ingredients such as oranges, fresh cranberries, cloves, and star anise, meaning that it’s very easy to recreate.

You could even place these ingredients into jars and decorate them with ribbon, ready to give to your loved ones as an aromatic gift!

5. APPLE CINNAMON SIMMER POT FROM CARRIE COLBERT

This simmering potpourri encompasses our all-time favorite fall scents and is a go-to on a gloomy fall day. You start by cutting apples and oranges into slices, keeping the skin on.

Then, you add water, cinnamon sticks, and star anise to the pot before heating it on low. Once it begins to simmer, simply leave it on the stove for as long as you desire its aroma. It’s sure to lift your spirits!

6. FALL MASON JAR POTPOURRI FROM SMART CENTS MOM

This post gives you not one, but six simmering potpourri recipes you can easily place in mason jars, ready to give to your loved ones this Christmas, or even to sell at your local fair.

They use kitchen and pantry staples such as apples, oranges, cinnamon sticks, lemons, cloves, nutmeg, vanilla, rosemary, and cranberries, helping to make your home smell divine. Plus, we think they look stunning when arranged into decorated mason jars like this!

7. STRAWBERRY BASIL SIMMER POT FROM THE CROWNED GOAT

This simmer pot recipe might be simple, but it’s bursting with fresh and sweet scents to instantly give your home a summer inspired lift. All you’ll need are strawberries, basil and lime juice to bring it to life.

Simply bring the contents of your pot to a boil, then turn the heat down to low. Allow the contents to simmer for a few hours and add water as needed. Too easy!

8. SUMMER SIMMER POT FROM THAT’S WHAT SARAH SAID

This unique and visually stunning simmer pot uses ingredients such as grapefruit, clementines, lemon, mint leaves, and rose petals to fill your home with an aroma that will remind you of the warmer months.

The post also recommends other beautiful combinations, including rosemary and vanilla, coconut and lime, and lavender and lemon.

9. HOLIDAY SIMMER POT FROM BELL’ALIMENTO

This easy holiday cranberry spice simmer pot is a clever, all-natural, and inexpensive way to make your house smell amazing during the holidays. Cranberries, cloves, herbs and lemon slices are a quintessential holiday combination.

You can also save your orange peels, lemon and lime peels, and apple and pear skins, as they make excellent additions!

10. FALL SIMMERING SPICES FROM THE HEALTHY MAVEN

All you need are some orange peels, vanilla beans and cinnamon sticks to make your home smell like your favorite scents of fall. Optional extras include cloves, star anise, freshly grated nutmeg, or cardamom pods.

Be warned though: this simmering pot recipe smells so good, you’ll want to cook it all-year-long! Why not dry the ingredients and place them in jars for whenever the fancy strikes? Then, you’ll never be without your favorite scents.

11. DIY SIMMER POT RECIPE FROM THE PRETTY BEE

These simmer pots are so great for your own home during the holiday season and also make wonderful gifts.

You just place the ingredients in a large mason jar, put some baker’s twine as well as a tag on it and you have a great, thoughtful gift that your loved ones are sure to love!

This DIY simmer pot recipe uses natural ingredients such as cloves, lemons, mulling spices, rosemary, and vanilla.

12. CITRUS SIMMERING POT FROM THE HAPPIER HOMEMAKER

This simmering pot recipe is perfect for spring and summer, as it features the beautiful citrus notes of orange, combined with ginger. The end result is a light, fresh scent that makes your home smell like you’ve spent the day spring cleaning!

You’ll need about 1/4 cup of sliced ginger root and 4 Halo oranges, also sliced. To reuse the simmer pot, simply pour the contents of the pot in a mason jar or other airtight container and store in the refrigerator until the next day.

13. EASY STOVETOP POTPOURRI FROM THE KITCHN

Creating a cozy atmosphere gives guests a warm welcome, no matter the size of the space. One of the best ways you can do this is through appealing to their sense of smell, particularly with this easy stovetop potpourri.

This recipe recommends different ingredient pairings to create an aroma that you love. From apples, cinnamon, and cloves, to lavender, nutmeg, cloves, cardamom, and cinnamon – there’s a scent among this list for just about every preference!

14. HOMEMADE TROPICAL SUMMER STOVETOP POTPOURRI FROM WINSTEAD WANDERING

Bring fresh summer scents inside with this homemade tropical summer potpourri made of lemons, strawberries, and coconut extract. We haven’t come across a stovetop potpourri recipe using coconut before, so are excited to see a version that encompasses a summer spent on a topical island!

All the ingredients in this summer potpourri come together to make a sweet, fresh concoction that’ll perfume your whole house in the lightest and most refreshing way.

15. SPRING STOVETOP POTPOURRI FROM HOMEBAKED BLISS

Bring springtime scents into your home with this fragrant spring inspired stovetop potpourri. It’s made with citrus fruits, herbs and floral essential oils, including ingredients such as rosemary, lavender, rose petals, lemon, and essential oils (which, if you have pets, you may want to emit).

This recipe recommends adding no more than 5 drops per scent, because you don’t want to give yourself a headache!

16. UPLIFTING ROSEMARY CITRUS POT SIMMER FROM HELLO GLOW

Here’s a helpful hint for when you need to clean your home, but just can’t motivate yourself to do so.

Put on this uplifting simmer pot recipe of citrus slices, rosemary and any other herbs you want to add, as well as essential oils, and you’ll be in the mood for spring cleaning in no time.

Sometimes, we just need to appeal to our sense of smell to help us get off the couch and start being productive!

17. SPRING INSPIRED STOVETOP POTPOURRI FROM GATHERING DREAMS

Here’s a natural and homemade scent that will bring the beautiful smell of spring into your home, no matter what season it is. Along with a fresh and inspiring aroma, this DIY offers additional benefits too.

If the air in your home is quite dry, simmering pots will also help you to add moisture to the air. This post actually offers three fresh variations to help you embrace spring: lemon and rosemary, lime, mint, ginger, and thyme, and lemon, cinnamon, mint, and thyme.

18. CHRISTMAS INSPIRED SIMMERING POT FROM BURKATRON

Nothing beats the smell of Christmas, but how can you fill your home with those sweet, nostalgic aromas all-year-round?

This Christmas inspired simmering pot is the answer, as it uses ingredients such as cinnamon sticks, oranges, cloves, star anise and vanilla pods for a warming fragrant scent.

If you happen to have some available, why not throw in some cutting from a pine tree too? Very festive!

19. FALL SIMMERING POT FROM MY MOMTASTIC LIFE

Ditch the candles and make your home smell like fall naturally with this fall simmering pot recipe! Sadly, many of your favorite candles most likely contain artificial ingredients, including toxins which have proven to be harmful to our health.

Instead, fire up the stove and place a pot of red apples, orange peel, cinnamon sticks, cloves, cranberries, bay leaves, vanilla extract, almond extract, ground nutmeg, and ginger on it. Heavenly!

20. LAVENDER AND ORANGE SIMMERING POTPOURRI FROM SOAP QUEEN

If your kitchen and surrounding area needs some freshening, this orange and lavender simmering potpourri will fill the air with a crisp and relaxing scent. It only uses a handful of ingredients, yet packs a scent that’s relaxing and refreshing.

Remember, never leave the house while your potpourri is simmering and don’t let the water completely evaporate either – otherwise, you’ll be left with a burnt smell that’s anything but nice.

21. LEMON, LAVENDER AND HERB SIMMER POT FROM GET GREEN BE WELL

Fancy making a natural and homemade stovetop potpourri recipe with the calming aromatherapy of citrus, lavender and herbs?

This post explains that fragrance has been scientifically proven to alter human brain function, including how well you think, your mood, and social behavior.

Make this lemon, lavender, and herb simmer pot and you’ll feel uplifted and refreshed in no time!

22. SPRING SMELLING SIMMERING POTPOURRI FROM FRESH TIMES

Who wouldn’t want to make their home smell like a fresh garden bursting with herby, citrusy goodness? This DIY simmering potpourri recipe will tell you how, featuring not one, but 6 ingredient combinations!

Which one will you choose: lime, mint, and cucumber; grapefruit, mint, and ginger; lemon, lavender, and almond extract; orange, ginger, and almond extract; lemon, basil, and vanilla extract; or eucalyptus, mint, and dried chamomile?

Which Simmering Potpourri Recipe Will You Try?

There you have it – 22 of the best simmering potpourri recipes to help your home smell sweet – no matter what the season. You would have noticed that all of these recipes contain natural, aromatherapeutic ingredients to not only mask bad odors, but benefit your wellbeing too.

Simmering pots are so easy to achieve yourself. You simply place the required ingredients into a pot with water and bring it to a slow simmer. The recipes in this post are here to inspire and guide you, but why not get creative and try your own combination of aromatic ingredients? The sky is the limit with these!

Which simmer pot recipes will you be trying this weekend? We’d love to hear from you in the Comments section below!

Melanie

Melanie Clarke is the founder of Whim Online Magazine, an online magazine based in Australia that has a strong focus on whimsical + dreamy photography, as well as art and fashion content.

All posts, Recipes

15 All Fruit Birthday Cake Ideas You Can Make From Home

What is a party without cake? If you’re on a strict diet or have dietary restrictions that prevent you from tucking into a slice of cake, however, then it can be disheartening.

Rather than miss out, why don’t you embrace what’s known as an ‘all fruit birthday cake’, which (as the name suggests) is made entirely from slices of fruit, such as watermelon, cantaloupe, pineapple, and so much more?

Trust us, these cakes provide a totally new spin on the term ‘fruit cake’!

If you’ve never seen an all fruit cake before, then it can be difficult to know exactly where to begin. Fear not, as we’ve rounded up the best 15 all fruit party cakes we’ve ever seen, many of which can be made in 30 minutes or less!

Not only are they low on calories and high in vitamins, but they’re also the perfect refreshing treat on a hot summer’s day. Ready to rock your party the healthy way? Let’s get started!

1. SUMMER FRUIT CAKE FROM BRIT + CO

This stunning all fruit cake is the best way to eat (and show off) summer’s tastiest fruits. There’s no butter or eggs involved in this dessert.

Instead, towering layers of watermelon and cantaloupe are stacked with a sweetened yogurt and whipped cream surprise filling! Simply garnish with some plump strawberries and you’ve got yourself a party cake that everyone will want a slice of.

2. WATERMELON AND COCONUT CREAM CAKES FROM BUON PAPPA

These beautiful little ‘cupcakes’ don’t contain dairy, sugar, eggs, gluten, or flour! Instead, they’re made from watermelon and iced with a mixture of coconut milk, maple syrup, vanilla, raspberries, and mint.

Kids will love chowing down on these at their next birthday party, completely oblivious of these cakes’ added health benefits!

3. SUMMER WATERMELON CAKE FROM THE KITCHY KITCHEN

This watermelon cake may contain more than just fruit, but we think the cake-like frosting is a clever touch!

Similar to the last recipe, the frosting is made using coconut milk, honey, and vanilla bean, as well as mint sprigs and strawberries, raspberries, and watermelon balls for garnishing.

It’s a great way to surprise a loved one for their birthday or even to simply enjoy summer’s best fruit on a warm afternoon.

4. WATERMELON CAKE WITH SWEET COCONUT CREAM, FIGS & BERRIES FROM QUEEN

This watermelon cake looks like an absolute work of art! Not only is it refreshing, but it also makes a healthy alternative to a traditional celebration cake.

Along with the goodness of watermelon, serving as the bulk of the ‘cake’, you’ve also got delectable strawberries, raspberries, and figs on top. The best bit? You don’t have to feel guilty when you go back for seconds…or thirds.

5. FRESH MELON CAKE RECIPE FROM COOKING ON THE WEEKENDS

Here’s another vegan, fat-free, dairy-free and gluten-free ‘cake’ recipe. This version uses thin melon slices and stacks them on top of one another, before drizzling with a tasty balsamic glaze.

Just top with cherries (or any other fruit of your choice) to serve. It might seem fiddly, but the extra effort is totally worth it!

6. WATERMELON AND PEACH FRESH FRUIT CAKE FROM NOT WITHOUT SALT

All you need to make this picture-perfect cake is a small watermelon, 2-3 peaches (thinly sliced), and 1 cup fresh blueberries. The size of your cake depends on the size of your watermelon; it’s that simple!

This cake is perfect for a kid’s birthday party, as it’s exciting enough to be eaten without abandon, yet serves as a super healthy alternative to traditional cake.

You can drizzle it with a Greek yoghurt sauce or agave syrup, but this one looks just as good served as-is.

7. WATERMELON CAKE FROM JOY OF KOSHER

Who would have thought there would come a day when a child would request a birthday cake made of melon?

This masterpiece requires a whole watermelon, strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, blackberries, and whipped cream (but you can make it vegan-friendly using a coconut variety of cream).

If you’re creating this cake for a more grown-up party, why not infuse the watermelon with gin? The options are endless!

8. HEALTHY WATERMELON CAKE FROM WOMEN’S WEEKLY FOOD

Forget your traditional tiered cakes, we think this fruity alternative looks and tastes much better!

While this is wonderful for a kid’s birthday party, we can’t help but imagine it being used as an alternative wedding cake too.

It’ll leave enough room for guests to enjoy another serving of dessert. To make, just cut your watermelon in various sized layers, then decorate with fruit shapes and fresh strawberries.

9. FRESH MELON CAKE FROM TARA TEASPOON

This stunning yet simple watermelon cake serves as the perfect centerpiece at your next summer party.

We love the addition of thin strawberry slices around the base of the cake, as well as those thick dollops of cream on top. The cake is further garnished with fresh raspberries and chopped pistachios for a little color and crunch.

10. FRESH CANTALOUPE CAKE FROM TARA TEASPOON

Prefer to use cantaloupe as your cake’s base? Then this recipe is for you! Simply cut the cantaloupe into two round layers and sit the smaller one on top of the larger one.

Then, get a fresh mango and cut the cheek into very thin slices. Bend these slices in half, layering them along the bottom edge of the cantaloupe. Then, fill the center of the cantaloupe with extra diced fruit and cream. Divine!

11. HONEYDEW CAKE FROM TARA TEASPOON

Tara Teaspoon has developed not one, but three melon cake recipes! This one uses delicious honeydew as its main element and base, giving the cake a gorgeous green hue.

Decorated with kiwi fruit and grapes, this cake doesn’t just look amazing, but taste great too. Oh, and it’s incredibly good for you also, containing a ton of vitamins and essential minerals. How good is that?!

12. ALL FRUIT PARTY CAKE FROM LIFE LOVE AND SUGAR

This all fruit watermelon cake is so easy to make! Plus, for those trying to lose or watch their weight for a New Year’s Resolution, this cake is the perfect way to celebrate an occasion and not break the calorie bank.

It uses an assortment of watermelon, pineapple, kiwis, blueberries, and grapes, but feel free not to stop there. See what’s in-season and get creative! Also, stock up on toothpicks for this one – they’re the secret to everything holding together so well.

13. WATERMELON CELEBRATION CAKE FROM MISS MARZIPAN

When it comes to works of edible art, we think this one takes the cake (pun intended!). With cut out stars of dragon fruit, cantaloupe, and watermelon, as well as layered kiwi slices on top and orange slices around the base, it’s safe to say we’re in love…with a cake.

There are easily 8 different types of fruit here, not to mention a sprig of mint, making this all fruit party cake an absolute pleasure to eat – for your tastebuds, waistline, and health.

14. WATERMELON CAKE MADE OUT OF REAL FRUIT FROM JULIE ANN EVENTS

Sliced up strawberries, cantaloupe cut outs, and blueberries serve as the perfect accessories to this watermelon base.

This cute and colorful cake would be wonderful for a birthday (kid’s or adult’s), baby shower, or simply to celebrate the best of summer’s fresh fruit. The heart-shaped pineapple slices are adorable, as is the zig-zag of blueberries around the top edge.

15. FRESH WATERMELON LAYER CAKE FROM WIFE, MAMA, FOODIE

This simple dessert idea is easy to make and contains the tastiest fresh and colorful fruit! Feel free to customize this recipe by using the fruit of your choice or whatever is in-season where you live.

It would be perfect for summer get togethers, birthdays, and other special occasions, serving as the ultimate centerpiece at your next event. Just be warned though: this all fruit cake is sure to steal the show!

Which Birthday Fruit Cake Will You Make?

There you have it – 15 all fruit party cakes that look like stunning, edible works of art. Not only are the majority of them vegan, dairy-free, gluten-free, and paleo friendly, but they’re also jam-packed with vitamins, minerals, and other essential elements that your body needs.

These fruity cakes are great ways to get the kids excited about eating fruit, plus they can be soaked with a splash of alcohol for adult parties, if the occasion calls for it!

In fact, with these recipes you can have your cake and eat it too – without the guilt! Why not go back for seconds? You know you want to!

Which all fruit cake do you want to create? Let us know in the Comments section below!

Melanie

Melanie Clarke is the founder of Whim Online Magazine, an online magazine based in Australia that has a strong focus on whimsical + dreamy photography, as well as art and fashion content.

All posts, Beauty & Skin Care

20 Natural Makeup Recipes: How to Make Your Own Homemade Makeup

If there’s one thing many of us like to indulge in, it’s makeup, whether used to cover our so-called imperfections or make us look and feel more glamorous on a night out.

Here’s the thing though: if you want high-quality makeup that uses safe ingredients, you often have to spend a small fortune on the stuff.

Thankfully, there’s an easy way, as you can follow a number of simple recipes to create your own homemade makeup. From blush and bronzer, to foundation, lipstick, mascara, and more – we’ve found a DIY makeup recipe to suit just about everyone.

Ready to discover 20 homemade makeup recipes you can whip-up this weekend? Let’s get started!

1. EASY NATURAL BLUSH RECIPES FOR EVERY SKIN TONE FROM PRONOUNCE

Creating homemade blush is much easier than one would think! This recipe teaches you to make blush using safe and natural ingredients from your local supermarket or herbal store.

Think hibiscus flower powder, beet root powder, and arrowroot powder – all products which are used in recipes we eat! Once you try homemade blush, you’ll never settle for the store-bought version again.

2. DIY CREAMY MARSALA LIP GLOSS FROM HELLO GLOW

This stunning homemade lip gloss will give your lips a sheer red wine hue, inspired by the Marsala color of the year.

It’s made with jojoba and castor oil, so this creamy DIY version will also moisturize your lips and give them plenty of shine. All you’ll need is castor oil, jojoba oil, cera bellina wax, merlot mica, and honey flavoring oil.

3. DIY NATURAL LIPSTICK WITH ESSENTIAL OILS FROM NATURAL LIVING FAMILY

As this tutorial explains, women around the world apply toxic and synthetic ingredients to their face, including around mucous-membrane eyes and mouths, daily.

Rather than risk the side effects, opt for this totally natural homemade lipstick instead, which contains coconut oil, beeswax, shea butter, essential oils, turmeric, and powders including beet, cacao, cinnamon, maca, and spirulina.

4. HOMEMADE ROSEBUD SALVE BLUSH FROM FREE PEOPLE

Some of you may already have a tin of trusty rosebud salve at home, but have you ever thought about giving it a rosy sheen?

This tutorial tells you how to take some gorgeous rose petals and crush them up, turning them into a fine, yet beautifully colored, powder. All you’ll need is a coffee grinder or mortar and pestle. Easy, fun, and very effective!

5. HOMEMADE TOASTED PUMPKIN CHAPSTICK FROM ONION RINGS AND THINGS

Nourish your lips with this homemade toasted pumpkin Chapstick. It’s made with natural ingredients and pumpkin seed oil, making it the ultimate fall beauty treat!

All you need for your very own homemade natural lip balms are simple ingredients you can find at most health food or major grocery stores.

This version uses organic coconut oil, beeswax pellets, cocoa butter, toasted pumpkin seed oil, clove essential oil, cinnamon bark essential oil, and nutmeg essential oil.

6. HOMEMADE EYELINER FROM HEALTH STARTS IN THE KITCHEN

Did you know you can make your own non-toxic, homemade eyeliner with just 3 ingredients? To do so, you’ll just need activated charcoal, arrowroot starch, and filtered water.

Plus, don’t forget a little container (such as an old eyeshadow pot) to hold your mixture! You simply mix everything together in the pot and voila – you’ve got your very own non-toxic, long-lasting eyeliner.

7. NATURAL TINTED LIP BALM RECIPE FROM WELLNESS MAMA

If you’re not a regular wearer of lipstick, but still like to add a subtle, yet rosy tint to your pout, then this natural tinted lip balm is for you.

This one has been colored with a tiny drop of natural red food coloring and lemon and vanilla added for scent, although you can leave it unscented or add an essential oil you’d like.

It uses a simple, nourishing base of coconut oil, beeswax, shea butter, red or rose mica powder, and peppermint essential oil.

8. CENTER STAGE GLOW SERUM FROM HUMBLEBEE AND ME

Would you like to make a silky, shimmery liquid that leaves your complexion glowing? This DIY glow serum looks divine on any skin tone, although you can adjust your desired tone by following the tutorial.

Liquid ingredients such as argan oil, olive squalene, and vitamin E oil are combined with powder ingredients including 2% TKB thickening clay, 1.50% mica blend, and 5% sericite mica.

It might sound technical, but this step-by-step guide will break it right down for you.

9. DIY BLUSH WITH BEET ROOT FROM MOUNTAIN ROSE HERBS

Here are two recipes to give your cheeks a pop of healthful color with the help of organic beet root powder, a gorgeous ingredient for helping you glow inside and out!

You can customize it accordingly, but just some of the recommended ingredients include organic powders featuring arrowroot, beet root, turmeric, and cacao. Play around with quantities and ratios until you have your desired hue.

10. SCENTED DIY UNICORN EYESHADOW IN A TRI-COLOR PRESSED PALETTE FROM SOAP DELI NEWS

Learn how to make your own scented DIY unicorn eyeshadow! This fun trio of scented pressed eyeshadows offers lasting pastel color and shimmer that’s perfect for eyes.

You’ve probably seen eyeshadow like this all over Instagram, but with this fun and easy recipe, you can now make your own. You can even experiment with colors to create a color palette that’s more ‘you’.

11. A SIMPLE AND NATURAL EYESHADOW DIY RECIPE FROM BEING WELL

Create your very own eyeshadow with this DIY recipe. It’s a great way to have fun and experiment with your favorite shades! The best part?

It’s cost and time effective, plus creating your own cosmetics is the only way to know precisely what you’re putting on your body. For this one, you’ll need vitamin E oil, lavender essential oil, arrowroot powder (or corn starch), and white mica.

12. DIY NATURAL BLUSH FROM THRIVING ON PALEO

Here’s a toxin-free, corn-free, garbage-free blush that you’ll feel completely safe about putting on your skin. The color goes on beautifully and lasts all day long and the ingredients are so clean that the recipe’s creator wouldn’t blink to eat them!

You can dramatically vary the color based on the ingredients and proportions of the ingredients you use too, so the end result of your DIY blush should be something that’s completely suited to your individual skin tone. Brilliant!

13. CUSTOM LIP TINTS USING NATURAL INGREDIENTS FROM NATURAL BEAUTY WORKSHOP

Tinted lip balms are one of the easiest mineral makeup recipes to master because you start off with a reliable base of clear jojoba oil, castor oil, and nilotica shea butter, before adding mineral-based colorants to get your desired hue just-right.

Not only does this recipe has a lengthy shelf life, but it’s also nourishing, beneficial to your skin, and of course, completely natural!

14. NATURAL DIY HOMEMADE MAKEUP REMOVER FROM HOMEMADE ON OUR HOMESTEAD

This DIY makeup remover will remove everything from mascara to foundation without over drying, irritating and damaging your skin and lashes.

It contains ingredients such as Dr. Bronner’s Baby Unscented Pure Castile Soap, filtered water, organic fractionated coconut oil, and vitamin E or jojoba oil. Then, once made, you put the mixture on an organic reusable cotton cloth or 100% cotton makeup remover rounds to apply it to your face.

15. DIY CONCEALER RECIPE FROM EVERYTHING PRETTY

This tutorial actually offers a recipe for everything from face concealer and under-eye concealer, to spot treatment and a healing version of concealer.

You can expect to use natural and nourishing ingredients such as jojoba oil, shea butter, emulsifying wax, aloe gel, witch hazel, non-nano zinc oxide, cocoa powder, and green clay.

16. HOMEMADE MINERAL MAKEUP FOUNDATION FROM FREEBIE FINDING MOM

Homemade mineral makeup recipes, like this foundation, are a great way to save money, get the perfect shade, and protect your skin from harsh ingredients!

This one uses a bunch of affordable, easy to find ingredients. In fact, you probably have 1-4 of the ingredients for this homemade mineral makeup recipe in your kitchen right now.

This list includes arrowroot powder, bentonite clay, cocoa powder, cinnamon, ginger, and lavender essential oil.

17. DIY ORGANIC FOUNDATION MAKEUP WITH SUNSCREEN FROM PRONOUNCE

How’s this for a natural, DIY cosmetic product? This foundation is healthy, non-toxic, organic, effective smooth finish face foundation makeup AND it contains sunscreen!

Instead of those hard-to-pronounce ingredients you often find in store-bought versions, this homemade foundation contains almond oil, shea butter, cocoa butter, beeswax, vitamin E, zinc oxide, cacao powder, and cinnamon.

Not only is it completely natural but it sounds good enough to eat (although we would advise against this)!

18. DIY MINERAL BLUSH, BRONZER & SHADOW FROM JENNI RAINCLOUD

With the ingredients that are necessary for making your own mineral make up, you can also make blush, bronzer and eye shadow!

This tutorial will run you through how to make all three using natural ingredients. The end result is as good as, if not better than, store-bought brands. Trust us, you’ll have fun creating these DIY cosmetics and learn a lot along the way too.

19. HOMEMADE NATURAL FACE POWDER FROM THE PISTACHIO PROJECT

Homemade natural face powder is one of the easiest makeups to make! It requires just three ingredients and suddenly you’ve made your own face powder for practically pennies.

This one uses the fail-safe combination of arrowroot powder, cacao powder, and cinnamon. All ingredients are beneficial for your skin and provide natural coloring to match your skin tone.

20. NATURAL HOMEMADE MASCARA FROM A BLOSSOMING LIFE

Homemade mascara is an easy and natural way to give you thicker, longer, and darker lashes. You can whip up this DIY mascara recipe with just a few simple ingredients, including coconut oil, shea butter, bees wax, aloe vera gel, and activated charcoal.

Not only do they help your lashes to look more beautiful, but each ingredient also has its own benefits, whether that’s acting as a moisturizer, promoting hair growth, or keeping bacteria away.

Which Natural Beauty Recipe Will You Try?

There you have it – 20 homemade makeup recipes using natural ingredients your skin will thank you for!

While it can be tempting to buy store-bought cosmetics to save yourself the effort, you’d be surprised how quick and easy many of these DIY recipes are to make.

Aside from knowing exactly what ingredients you’re putting on your skin, eyes, and mouth, creating your own homemade makeup is also a great way to save some much-needed cash.

Whether you’re searching for a natural eyeshadow, eyeliner, lipstick, foundation, blush, bronzer, highlighter, or more – there’s sure to be at least one recipe that takes your fancy above.

Simply start with the DIY that interests you the most, then work your way up to those requiring more ingredients or additional time to create. When it comes to DIY, natural makeup, the world is your oyster!

Which homemade cosmetic recipe will you be trying? We’d love to hear from you in the Comments section below.

Melanie

Melanie Clarke is the founder of Whim Online Magazine, an online magazine based in Australia that has a strong focus on whimsical + dreamy photography, as well as art and fashion content.

All posts, Recipes

18 Best Homemade Ice Cream Recipes (and healthy!)

For many, ice cream is their favorite dessert, especially on those long, hot summer days. But what happens if you’re embracing a dairy-free lifestyle?

Or you simply don’t want to consume the unhealthy fat, sugar, and carbohydrates in such a treat? This is where healthy ice cream comes into play (or ‘nice cream’, as it’s often referred to), allowing us all to enjoy the delicious and creamy dessert, but without damaging our waistline or health.

Healthy ice cream is built on a few trusty foundations: the humble banana, which is sliced and frozen while ripe, as well as other ingredients such as avocado and coconut cream.

These are then blended with a wide range of other nice (not naughty) ingredients to create a soft serve that will rival the best gelateria in town.

If we’ve got the attention of your tastebuds, then keep reading, because we’ve rounded up not one but 18 healthy ice cream recipes to get you started.

1. BLACK SESAME COCONUT MILK ICE CREAM FROM I HEART UMAMI

This no churn black sesame coconut milk ice cream is made with maple syrup and is both creamy and delicious.

Black sesame ice cream is a really popular dessert in Japan, Taiwan, and China, and after trying this version, you’ll certainly know why! The best bit? This recipe is suitable for vegans and the Paleo diet.

2. PEANUT BUTTER BANANA NICE CREAM FROM FIT FOODIE FINDS

With only 4 ingredients, this peanut butter banana nice cream is dairy-free, vegan and ready in under 10 minutes. Simply top with chocolate chips and serve immediately or freeze for later!

It contains beneficial ingredients such as frozen sliced bananas, natural peanut butter, unsweetened almond milk, and mini chocolate chips.

3. VANILLA DATE ICE CREAM FROM PROPORTIONAL PLATE

This ice cream recipe contains no added sugars – only the natural sugars found in delicious, yet healthy ingredients such as Medjool dates and vanilla bean.

Other tasty ingredients include egg yolks, whole milk, cream, and pistachios for topping. Simply switch the whole milk and cream for plant-based varieties to make this even healthier!

4. TWO INGREDIENT PISTACHIO ICE CREAM FROM MY WHOLE FOOD LIFE

This healthy recipe is vegan, gluten free, paleo, and contains no added sugar. Can it get better than that? To make this delectable pistachio ice cream, you just need frozen bananas and pistachio butter.

Simply blend it all together in a food processor, then place the mixture into the freezer for 30 minutes before serving.

5. PEANUT BUTTER NICECREAM FROM WHEN SWEET BECOMES HEALTHY

This peanut butter nicecream uses a very simple recipe to create the mixture, then inspires you to decorate your nicecream with other delicious, yet healthy options, such as cacao nibs, almonds, rawnola, walnuts, raw chocolate pieces, or extra (all-natural) peanut butter.

We love the end result: a nice cream that looks decadent and rich, but without unnecessary carbs or sugar.

6. SPIRULINA POPSICLES FROM WHEN SWEET BECOMES HEALTHY

Oh my, these spirulina popsicles look like edible works of art! We all know the numerous health benefits of spirulina, so to put the superfood in an ice cream is an absolutely genius idea.

This recipe uses ingredients such as almond milk, pitted dates, ground vanilla, cashew butter, and a pinch of salt. Then, just decorate your popsicles with coconut flakes, edible petals, goji berries, or whatever takes your fancy!

7. CHOCOLATE PEANUT BUTTER ICE CREAM FROM LEELALICIOUS

This decadent chocolate peanut butter ice cream combines peanut butter with dark chocolate, along with a luscious coconut milk ice cream base.

It’s dairy free, vegan and with a different nut butter it can also be made paleo friendly. This one uses an ice cream churner, but the end result is totally worth the extra time, effort, and equipment!

8. FOUR INGREDIENT SNICKERS NICE CREAM FROM COOK IT REAL GOOD

This deliciously healthy four-ingredient Snickers nice cream is made with just frozen bananas, peanut butter, almond milk and cocoa powder.

It’s also vegan, dairy free and refined sugar free, meaning that no one has to miss out on the fun! Top with crushed peanuts, banana slices, and chocolate chips and you’ve got yourself a winner.

9. RASPBERRY COCONUT CREAMSICLES FROM CHOOSING CHIA

These raspberry coconut creamsicles are a dreamy treat that are vegan, gluten-free and refined-sugar-free! You can also make these pops with an ombre effect for an impressive and fun treat.

They take just 10 minutes to prep and use a handful of simple ingredients, including coconut milk, unsweetened coconut yoghurt, vanilla extract, maple syrup, raspberries, and freeze-dried dragonfruit powder (although this last one is optional).

10. AVOCADO ICE CREAM FROM FEEL GOOD FOODIE

This avocado ice cream is a very easy and healthy homemade ice cream that’s vegan, paleo-friendly and of course, deliciously tasty. You’ll find it to be creamy, smooth and ultra-rich, but the best part?

You don’t need an ice cream maker! All you need is a blender and ingredients including avocados, coconut milk, banana, maple syrup, lemon juice, and mint leaves.

11. COFFEE ICE CREAM FROM COOK EAT PALEO

Here’s an easy dairy-free ice cream recipe with that classic coffee flavor. It contains just 5 ingredients and is vegan, paleo, gluten-free, and refined sugar-free.

This nice cream uses a base of coconut milk and cashews for a creamy texture, as well as other ingredients such as cold brew coffee concentrate, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and instant espresso powder to taste (optional). Sounds divine!

12. THREE FRUIT ICE CREAMS FROM TASTEMADE

In this tutorial, you’ll find not one, but three different recipes for a fruity, healthy ice cream. There’s banana and chocolate (our favorite), strawberry, or pineapple and coconut. Yum!

Each recipe only uses two ingredients as well, making them the simplest nice cream recipes among this list. Choose your favorite flavor to create, or why not make all three for when guests come over? They’re certainly easy enough!

13. DARK CHOCOLATE AVOCADO ICE CREAM FROM WHOLE NEW MOM

If you’re a chocolate lover, you’re going to LOVE this chocolate avocado ice cream recipe. It’s super creamy, incredibly rich, and we think you’ll agree once you try it – much tastier than store bought vegan ice cream.

It uses three whole avocados, as well as other ingredients such as cocoa (which you can substitute for cacao), organic MCT oil, and more.

14. TWO-INGREDIENT BANANA ALMOND BUTTER ICE CREAM FROM A SASSY SPOON

If you’re craving some homemade, healthy ice cream, but don’t want to make a trip to the shops for ingredients, then you’re in luck.

This banana and almond butter ice cream uses just two ingredients and we’re sure you can already guess what they are!

It’s a great way to use ripe bananas, plus the mixture doesn’t need churning. Simply blend, then freeze. You can even add in optional extras such as cacao nibs or any nuts.

15. VEGAN MANGO ICE CREAM FROM LOVING IT VEGAN

This easy, 5-ingredient recipe is perfectly sweet, contains a gorgeous color, and has all the mango flavor you could dream of.

It uses ingredients such as coconut cream, coconut milk, white sugar (which you can substitute for Stevia, or something similar), maple syrup, and of course, fresh, pureed mango. It’s a wonderful vegan ice cream that you and your family are sure to love!

16. PEANUT BUTTER BANANA ICE CREAM FROM THE ENDLESS MEAL

This peanut butter banana ice cream is one of the best healthy, dairy-free ice creams around. It’s made with only 3 ingredients, all of which you probably have in your kitchen right now!

You simply combine frozen bananas with all-natural peanut butter, and dark chocolate chips or shavings (although this is optional). Then, just blend together, freeze, and serve. So easy!

17. HEALTHY COCONUT STRAWBERRY BANANA ICE CREAM FROM TASTEFUL ADVENTURE

This recipe is so easy to make using frozen strawberries, bananas, and some coconut milk powder to keep it dairy free.

Once your food processor has mixed everything up, it will have the consistency of soft serve ice cream, but if you want it to be a little firmer, just pop the mixture in the freezer for around an hour. Then, top with coconut flakes, berries, cacao nibs, or whatever takes your fancy!

18. FOUR-INGREDIENT HEALTHY CHOCOLATE ICE CREAM WITH SAUCE FROM THE LOOPY WHISK

With a rich and luxurious healthy chocolate sauce, this vegan and paleo ice cream recipe is every chocolate lover’s dream. The chocolate “nice cream” contains delicious (and beneficial) ingredients such as coconut cream, maple syrup (or honey), cocoa powder, and frozen bananas.

The velvety sauce can also be deemed healthy, containing the goodness of melted coconut oil, maple syrup or honey, and cocoa powder. Divine!

There you have it – 18 healthy ice cream recipes that are totally guilt-free! Just looking at these delectable and mouth-watering desserts, you’d be forgiven for thinking they’re packed full of sugar, fat, and other nasties that usually accompany sweet treats.

Instead, you can take comfort in the fact that many use healthier, more beneficial bases of banana, coconut, or other fruits.

It doesn’t matter if you’re vegan, dairy-free, Paleo, or more – now you can make your own ice ream and eat it too!

From the decadently chocolate, to wonderfully fruity, or deliciously weird (black sesame ice cream, we’re looking at you), there’s a “nice cream” for absolutely everyone on this list.

Which healthy ice cream recipe will you be making? We’d love to hear from you in the Comments section below!

Melanie

Melanie Clarke is the founder of Whim Online Magazine, an online magazine based in Australia that has a strong focus on whimsical + dreamy photography, as well as art and fashion content.

All posts, Recipes

17 Simple and Fresh Edamame Recipes

If you’ve been to a Japanese restaurant before and scratched your head at the mention of “edamame”, then you’re not alone.

Although this humble little bean has been named a superfood, it isn’t exactly the most well-known vegetable. So, what exactly is edamame, you ask? Edamame are young soybeans that are usually eaten while they’re still in the pod.

Unlike mature soybeans, edamame beans are soft and edible, however the pod itself isn’t actually edible!

Despite their strange name, edamame beans provide a whole host of health benefits, including boosting your immune system, improving bone health, improving cardiovascular health, helping with weight management, and assisting a healthy digestive system.

They’re a great source of protein and fiber, as well as a number of essential amino acids. Plus, they’re an impressive source of vitamins and minerals, including iron, calcium, magnesium, potassium, sodium, zinc, phosphorus, copper, manganese, Vitamin C, riboflavin, thiamine, niacin, Vitamin B6 and Vitamin E.

With such incredible health benefits, it comes as no surprise that many of us want to find ways to consume even more edamame in our diet. Thankfully, we’ve rounded up 17 easy and delicious edamame recipes below!

1. EDAMAME FALAFEL SANDWICHES FROM THE FOODIE PHYSICIAN

Made with edamame instead of chickpeas, these nutrient-packed falafel sandwiches are a delicious twist on a classic dish.

You simply shell the edamame beans in a food processor, along with fresh herbs and dried spices, then add just a little bit of flour and baking powder to hold the felafels together. To finish off, fry or bake your felafels to perfection!

2. BEEF AND BROCCOLI EDAMAME STIR FRY FROM ZEN & SPICE

This beef and broccoli stir fry can be made in less than 15 minutes! Using edamame beans as one of the main ingredients, this recipe gives you a healthier version of your average beef stir fry.

After all, the addition of frozen, shelled edamame adds fiber, protein and heart-healthy fats. Plus, you can use brown rice, rather than white rice, to really boost the nutritional value of this meal.

Trust us, you’ll be adding it your list of favorite meals as soon as you eat it!

3. CASHEW CRUNCH SALAD WITH SESAME DRESSING FROM PINCH OF YUM

If you’ve never been much of a salad eater, then this recipe is the one for you. Not only does it contain the goodness of edamame, but it’s also easily customizable to suit your individual needs, whether you’re gluten-free, vegan, or like your salads to pack in the protein!

It’s a healthy yet filling option for lunch or dinner and is guaranteed to make you feel great.

4. EDAMAME DUMPLINGS IN WHITE TRUFFLE MISO FROM SPOON UNIVERSITY

If you’re looking for a unique take on your favorite dumplings, why not add edamame? Not only is it a great way to infuse your dish with more flavor, but we all know just how beneficial these humble beans are for your everyday health.

Along with the star ingredient, these dumplings also contain garlic, scallion, ginger, miso, truffle oil, cayenne pepper, soy sauce, and parsley. Sounds delicious!

5. COCONUT EDAMAME NOODLE SOUP FROM NADIA’S HEALTHY KITCHEN

This vegan and gluten-free soup will certainly warm you from the inside out!

It’s packed with protein and vegetables and combines the delicious flavors of lime, chilli, ginger, cloves, tamari, maple syrup, coriander, coconut milk, and turmeric.

This recipe is rather unique too, as you get your edamame hit not from beans, but from the edamame noodles. Genius!

6. SUSHI BOWL WITH VEGAN SPICY MAYO FROM RUNNING ON REAL FOOD

This sushi bowl with vegan spicy mayo is everything you love about sushi, served up in a bowl. The bowls featured yams, cucumber, carrot, avocado, green onion, sesame seeds, rice, nori, tofu, and of course, edamame beans!

Plus, the creamy cashew vegan spicy mayo you use to dress it with is potentially the best salad dressing you’ve ever eaten!

7. EDAMAME SALAD WITH BROWN RICE AND SESAME DRESSING FROM FOODNESS GRACIOUS

Looking for another fresh and healthy edamame salad? Along with our favorite ingredient, edamame beans, you’ll also find pinto beans and brown rice in this salad, as well as microgreens.

Microgreens are just smaller versions of the plants they would be if fully grown, but because they’re smaller and picked at a much earlier age, the flavor and nutrients are denser.

8. VEGAN BROCCOLI SOUP RECIPE WITH EDAMAME AND MISO FROM ELIZABETH CHLOE

If you fancy your edamame fix in soup form, then this vegan broccoli soup recipe featuring edamame and miso is for you.

Not only does it combine the goodness of nutritional ingredients and warm you from the inside out, but it can also be made within just 30 minutes, making it the perfect quick and easy weeknight meal.

9. EDAMAME HUMMUS FROM CHOOSING CHIA

This edamame hummus is a nice take on regular, chickpea-based hummus. It has a mild but unique flavor, plus its pretty mint green color will make you want to eat the whole bowl!

Just keep in mind that if you use frozen edamame, you will want to boil them for a little just to get them thawed. If you use fresh edamame, however, then you are good to go!

Pair this dip with crackers and fruit, or why not add it to a delicious buddha bowl?

10. SMASHED EDAMAME AVOCADO SALAD FROM CATCHING SEEDS

Many of you will already love smashed avocado, but have you ever combined it with the deliciousness that is edamame? This salad is creamy, crunchy, protein-packed, light, and so flavorful.

Plus, it’s great when enjoyed on toast, with some tortilla chips, on a salad or even in a wrap! The best bit? It takes just 5 minutes to prepare, followed by 5 minutes to cook, making it a healthy lunch idea for those on-the-go.

11. SPICY EDAMAME DIP FROM FOOD NETWORK

Looking for another edamame dip, but one that packs a bit of spice? This spicy edamame dip combines our favorite superfood with ingredients such as garlic, cayenne pepper, cumin, olive oil, lime juice, cilantro, and salt and pepper.

While the recipe recommends pairing the dip with pita chips, you can enjoy with just about anything that takes your fancy – bread, vegetables, crackers, or more.

12. STRAWBERRY, QUINOA & EDAMAME SALAD FROM EATING WELL

This strawberry, quinoa, and edamame salad will certainly turn heads at your next dinner party!

This cold grain salad beautifully pairs the nutty flavor of red quinoa with fresh strawberries, edamame beans, almonds, and toasted coconut.

Then, you simply add a balsamic dressing to really make those flavors pop. It’s quick and simple to create!

13. EDAMAME FALAFEL WITH LEMON AIOLI FROM EATING WELL

These edamame falafels with lemon aioli are a twist on the classic chickpea falafel. They simply contain edamame with green sweet pepper, whole wheat flower, Italian parsley, egg white, garlic, lemon peel, salt, and pepper.

While the preparation can take around 25 minutes, these falafels only need 4-5 minutes to cook, making it a relatively quick and easy dish to create.

14. SWEET AND SPICY EDAMAME FROM SIMPLY TASHEENA

These sweet and spicy edamame beans are the perfect snack or meal side. The recipe uses scrumptious ingredients including oyster sauce, sesame oil, garlic, soy sauce, honey, and red pepper flakes.

You simply cook the edamame according to the package’s instruction, then toss in a fry pan with all of the other ingredients. So simple!

15. CRISPY PARMESAN GARLIC EDAMAME FROM HOMEMADE HOOPLAH

Baked in the oven, this edamame recipe is a tasty snack with only 123 calories!

When you combine the flavors of edamame with olive oil, parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper, you get these amazing, bite-sized clusters of delicious edamame beans.

It’s diet food without the mundane, giving you a recipe that you’ll love cooking for your friends and family.

16. EASY EDAMAME PESTO PASTA FROM YUP, IT’S VEGAN

This quick and easy edamame pesto pasta is just a slight twist on the popular dish, spinach pesto. Instead of nuts, this edamame pesto uses buttery green edamame for a satisfying, lower-fat and plant-powered dish!

For all of you spinach fans, however, don’t fret. This recipe still uses the leafy ingredient for both flavor and nutrients!

17. EDAMAME-BLACK BEAN SALAD WITH RED WINE VINAIGRETTE FROM THE FOODIE AND THE FIX

This edamame-black bean salad is full of crisp veggies, a sweet-tart dressing and a nutritional boost from the black beans and edamame.

It’s also gluten-free and vegan, making it a great side option for many dietary needs. It takes just 15 minutes to prepare and no cooking is involved, making it a wonderful addition to dinner parties, BBQs, or anywhere else that a delicious salad is required!

Time to Choose Your Edamame Fix

There you have it – our round-up of 17 edamame recipes that aren’t just delectable, but highly nutritious too. These immature soybeans are a great source of protein, fiber, vitamins, minerals, and essential amino acids, so you’ll certainly want to embrace them in your daily life as much as possible.

Whether it’s with a delicious and hearty soup, pasta dish, stir fry, or more, edamame brings a delectable flavor to any dish you add it to.

The recipes we’ve rounded up are perfect for a variety of cooking skill sets, plus you’re sure to find a recipe that suits your needs – whether you’ve got 10 minutes or an hour of preparation time up your sleeves.

Simply work through the list at your own pace or choose just one or two dishes that take your fancy to begin with. The choice is yours!

Melanie

Melanie Clarke is the founder of Whim Online Magazine, an online magazine based in Australia that has a strong focus on whimsical + dreamy photography, as well as art and fashion content.

Beauty & Skin Care

20 DIY Recipes Using Activated Charcoal

From celebrities to nutritionists, scientists, and just about everyone else in between – many people seem to be singing the praises of activated charcoal these days, but for plenty of good reasons!

Whether it’s used on your face, teeth, skin, or even consumed in food and beverages, activated charcoal offers a seemingly endless list of benefits to our health, appearance, and wellbeing.

You see, activated charcoal (also known as activated carbon) is a special form of charcoal that is made porous by processing it at very high temperatures.

It is usually made from materials such as wood, bamboo, coconut shells, etc. and offers the following advantages:

Removing fluoride and other heavy metals from water
Reducing cholesterol levels

Emergency treatment of poisoning and overdoses
Teeth whitening
Treating acne

Reducing indigestion
Helping to prevent hangovers
Detoxifying and restoring the natural balance in enzymes, vitamins, minerals, and other organic compounds in the body

Alleviating allergies
Naturally relieving pain
And so much more.

If you’ve been wanting to try activated charcoal for yourself, but without spending a small fortune on new products, then you’re in for a treat.

We’ve rounded up 20 brilliant DIY projects which use activated charcoal, some of which take just minutes to make! Whether you’re after a DIY activated charcoal product for your face, skin, home, or mealtime, you’re sure to find it all below.

1. DIY LAVENDER AND CHARCOAL SOAP FROM THE SOAP QUEEN

This DIY lavender and charcoal soap has amazing skin benefits and is particularly useful for oily skin. While it was designed primarily for use on the body, it’s also safe and gentle enough to use on your face.

Along with the charcoal, this soap also uses other wonderful ingredients such as olive oil and cocoa butter, helping it to assist with dry, sensitive, or combination skin too.

2. ICED ACTIVATED CHARCOAL LATTE FROM NYSSA’S KITCHEN

Remember how we also said you can include activated charcoal in your food or beverages? This iced activated charcoal latte is a great example, as it provides a detoxifying drink that can help aid in digestion and rid your body of potential toxins.

Here’s some more good news too, as this latte uses just 6 ingredients and can be made in under 5 minutes. Plus, it looks incredibly unique!

3. DIY ACTIVATED CHARCOAL BAR SOAP FROM JENNI RAINCLOUD

This DIY Activated Charcoal Bar Soap can be used on the face as well as the body and is great for detoxing skin. It’s super easy to make and safe for all skin types!

Along with activated charcoal powder, which has the amazing ability to attach to impurities in the pores and detox the skin, this DIY soap also contains atlas cedarwood, tea tree and lavender essential oils for added cleansing action as well as an amazing woodsy scent.

4. HOMEMADE CHIA & CHARCOAL SOAP RECIPE FROM SOAP DELI NEWS

This soap doesn’t just look amazing, but it’s incredibly beneficial for your skin too.

Activated charcoal has been used for its ability to fight and control acne, whilst other helpful ingredients have been added, including chia seed oil for its essential fatty acids, powerful antioxidants and phytonutrients, walnut oil for its moisturizing and skin soothing properties, and more.

5. DIY ACTIVATED CHARCOAL FACE MASK FROM FREEBIE FINDING MOM

This 5 ingredient DIY activated charcoal face mask will clean out your pores and detoxify your skin, leaving you with smoother, younger looking skin. All you’ll need is activated charcoal powder, bentonite clay, unflavored gelatine, aloe vera, and distilled water.

The tutorial then calls for just 4 easy steps so you can whip up an activated charcoal face mask in less than 5 minutes and with no more effort than running your microwave!

6. DIY ACTIVATED CHARCOAL SHOE DEODORIZER FROM THE HOMEMADE EXPERIMENT

This is a super simple shoe deodorizer recipe, that aside from activated charcoal, you might have the rest of these ingredients laying around already!

Along with bamboo activated charcoal, you’ll just need essential oils such as peppermint and pine, a coffee filter, fabric squares, and string. It’s a quick and easy solution to stinky shoes, or even just to keep on hand for if bad shoe odor arises!

7. DIY CHARCOAL SHAMPOO TO DEEP CLEAN HAIR FROM BEST OF TIPS

Charcoal has great adsorbing properties that help your hair and scalp get rid of dirt, excess sebum and dandruff, plus it detoxes your scalp and hair to remove product build-up, helping to unclog hair follicles and stimulate hair growth.

This is why it’s a key ingredient in this DIY shampoo, which is both quick and easy to make. Aside from the charcoal, you’ll also need liquid castile soap and filtered or distilled water. That’s it!

8. ACTIVATED CHARCOAL DETOX BATH SOAK WITH ESSENTIAL OILS FROM HAPPY MOTHERING

Bath Soaks are such a great way to get some relief for your body and mind at the same time. This activated charcoal detox bath soak is amazing for cleansing the skin, plus it contains essential oils to not only smell great, but boost your skin’s health too.

Just keep in mind that this bath soak can leave a black residue on the tub, so be sure to wash that off as you’re rinsing off!

9. DIY ACTIVATED CHARCOAL ODOR ABSORBER FROM LAUREN NATURALS

If the air inside of your home can do with a freshen up, then this DIY activated charcoal odor absorber is for you. Whether it’s pet odors, smelly shoes, or that musty smell which can occur when your home is shut off to fresh air for a while, this odor absorber is sure to turn things around.

To make one, all you need is activated charcoal powder and a small cotton/nylon cloth or bag. So easy!

10. DIY ACTIVATED CHARCOAL LATTE FROM SPARKOAL BEAUTY

By now, you’ve probably already learned that activated charcoal has amazing benefits for you and your body – including both inside and out.

This latte is a great way to detox and feel great, plus it’s creamy and delicious. All you’ll need to make it is unsweetened vanilla almond milk, water, vanilla extract, liquid Stevia, and of course, food-grade activated charcoal.

11. MAKE YOUR OWN “NO COOK” NATURAL MASCARA & EYELINER FROM BIOME

This is not your average mascara or eyeliner. Activated charcoal has a strong, dark color that makes it perfect for DIY eyeliner and mascara, plus it’s also detoxifying and balances pH, so it can help improve the health of your eyelashes.

This recipe also uses other beneficial, natural ingredients, including shea butter, bentonite clay, and essential oils such as lavender and rosemary (both of which are antibacterial).

12. DIY ACTIVATED CHARCOAL & COCONUT OIL PULLING TABLETS FROM SPARKOAL BEAUTY

Oil pulling with coconut oil and activated charcoal has many health benefits. In fact, oil pulling is part of many people’s daily oral health practice. These easy-to-use oil pulling tablets also use peppermint or spearmint oil to give them a great taste.

To use, you simply place a tablet in your mouth and chew/swish it around until it softens and continue to swish for 15 to 20 minutes. You’ll have whiter and healthier teeth in no time!

13. ACTIVATED CHARCOAL FACE WASH FROM MODERN DAY CHAOS

This is a super easy DIY face mask recipe with only three ingredients: coconut oil, baking soda, and activated charcoal. Let it sit on your face for 10 – 15 minutes before rinsing off.

While activated charcoal can be drying for some skin types, the use of coconut oil in this DIY face mask leaves skin feeling moisturized and refreshed.

14. ACTIVATED CHARCOAL & TEA TREE OIL FACE CLEANSER FOR ACNE FROM ALLURING SOUL

If you suffer from clogged pores, blackheads, whiteheads or acne, then you might want to give this DIY activated charcoal and tea tree oil facial cleanser a try!

Along with charcoal and tea tree oil, this recipe also utilizes the healing and cleansing properties of honey, aloe vera, and safflower oil. To make the cleanser, you simply mix all the ingredients in a bowl and pour the mixture into an airtight container. Simple!

15. DETOXIFYING ACTIVATED CHARCOAL SUGAR SCRUB WITH ESSENTIAL OILS FROM HAPPY MOTHERING

This awesome DIY has taken a basic sugar scrub recipe that is great for exfoliating and helping to balance your skin with the addition of three essential oils, then added a teaspoon of activated charcoal to create a great detoxing blend that will leave your skin feeling the best it ever has.

This scrub only uses natural ingredients, so it’s perfect for all skin types. Like many activated charcoal products, however, it can leave black residue in your bath or shower, so be sure to wipe it down after use.

16. DIY ACTIVATED CHARCOAL HEALING SALVE FROM JENNI RAINCLOUD

Activated charcoal pulls out toxins from your skin and body, which is why it’s such a popular ingredient in a number of health and beauty products.

This DIY activated charcoal healing salve is no different, as it uses the beneficial ingredient to cure anything from blemishes such as pimples, cuts, and sores, to insect bites. It’ll draw out dirt, grime, bacteria, and more from the skin, leaving it cleaner and healthier.

17. EASY DIY ACTIVATED CHARCOAL SOAP BARS RECIPE FROM HAPPY MOTHERING

This natural detox soap is made with shea butter melt, pour soap, essential oils, and of course, activated charcoal.

Not only are they great for you and your family to use to detoxify, cleanse, and thoroughly look after your skin, but they also serve as wonderful gifts for your friends and relatives. Just wrap each bar in some tissue paper or cloth and tie with a ribbon!

18. HOW TO MAKE BLACK BATH BOMBS WITH ACTIVATED CHARCOAL FROM CREATIVE GREEN LIVING

Who doesn’t love a nice, hot bath at the end of a long day to relax? Now you can turn your bath time into detoxifying time, thanks to these DIY activated charcoal bath bombs.

Not only will it help to improve oily skin, shrink pores, treat acne and more, but your bath bomb will also turn your bath water black – a trend which recently blew up over on Instagram!

19. DIY ACTIVATED CHARCOAL FACE MASK FROM PARENTING CHAOS

Deep clean your skin and remove impurities with this revitalizing DIY Activated Charcoal Face Mask. It also makes for a very gentle exfoliate that tightens pores and pulls out impurities.

To make it, you’ll just need activated charcoal powder, as well as coconut oil, bentonite clay, water, and essential oils such as tea tree, frankincense, or lavender.

20. DIY ACTIVATED CHARCOAL WHITENING TOOTHPASTE FROM YOGI APPROVED

Looking for whiter, brighter, and healthier teeth? Now you can have that just-whitened look without opting for professional whitening or expensive products. Instead, make your own easy activated charcoal whitening toothpaste to use 1-2 times per week.

This simple recipe uses coconut oil, baking soda, essential oils such as peppermint or lemon, and activated charcoal to quickly and safely transform your smile.

Which Activated Charcoal Recipe Will You Try?

There you have it – 20 DIYs using activated charcoal to help you cleanse, detoxify, heal, remove odor, and so much more. You only need to scroll through social media or visit your local shopping mall to see that activated charcoal is huge, but for plenty of good reasons.

From cleansers and face masks, to food, drinks, home products, and more – we all want a slice of the activated charcoal magic to benefit our own lives.

Not only will these 20 DIYs using activated charcoal help you to save costs on expensive, store-bought products, but they’re also very simple and fun to make. Plus, they make excellent gifts for your loved ones!

Which DIY project using activated charcoal will you be making yourself? We’d love to hear from you in the Comments section below.

Melanie

Melanie Clarke is the founder of Whim Online Magazine, an online magazine based in Australia that has a strong focus on whimsical + dreamy photography, as well as art and fashion content.

All posts, Recipes

22 Tasty Goji Berry Recipes (Smoothies, Cookies, & more)

Goji berries might seem like one of the latest fads to put on your smoothie bowl, but they’re (thankfully) here to stay. You see, this “superfood” has earned every bit of its title, with studies showing that the bite-sized berry has numerous health benefits when consumed.

Along with helping to prevent premature aging, they also dramatically boost the immune system, protect against cancer, improve blood sugar levels, help with weight loss, lower cholesterol, and so much more.

Goji berries have been used in traditional Chinese medicine for more than 2,000 years now and are excellent sources of fiber, protein and a range of vitamins and minerals including iron, copper, selenium and vitamins A and C.

In addition, they are packed full of powerful antioxidants, including carotenoids, lycopene, lutein and polysaccharides.

If you want to add more goji berry goodness to your diet, then you’re in luck. We’ve rounded up 22 tasty goji berry recipes that are both simple and fun to make. Let’s get started!

1. GOJI BERRY-ALMOND-DATE POWER BALLS FROM SUJAS KITCHEN

Fancy a no-cook recipe featuring these powerful berries? This recipe has no added sugar, is all natural, gluten free, vegan, and paleo too!

Along with goji berries, it uses pitted dates, raw almonds, pumpkin seeds, cinnamon powder, and raisins to create these delectable, yet healthy, nutrient-packed power balls. Count us in!

2. GOJI BERRY CHIA SEED PUDDING FROM VITASAVE

Are you always too rushed to enjoy breakfast? Prepare this simple, 5-minute, nutrient packed goji berry chia seed pudding recipe the night before and you’ll have the best start to your day!

This goji berry chia seed pudding contains high-quality protein, healthy fats, and fibre rich complex carbohydrates, helping you to maintain your energy levels all day. Plus, it’ll take just minutes to make!

3. HEALTHY NUTELLA GOJI BERRY PARFAIT FROM GREEN SMOOTHIE GOURMET

Here’s another vegan and dairy-free recipe that contains our favorite superfood, goji berries. This healthy Nutella goji berry parfait is as delicious as it sounds, plus it’s the perfect guilt-free dessert for those with a sweet tooth.

Even the “Nutella” contains healthy ingredients such as hazelnut meal, plant milk, cacao powder, coconut oil, and more. Delicious!

4. SALMON & GOJI BERRY CURRY FROM SHEERLUXE

Here’s a great way to include goji berries in your mid-week dinner. This delicious salmon and goji berry curry features a wide range of other healthy and heart-warming ingredients too, including fresh ginger, turmeric, bulgar wheat, curry leaves, and more.

Oh, and it’s developed by Scott Harrison, founder of The Six Pack Revolution, so you know you’re onto a good thing.

5. SUPERFOOD BROWNIES FROM RUNNING TO THE KITCHEN

These gluten free superfood brownies are packed with goji berries and cacao nibs and baked to chewy fudge-brownie perfection!

Not only do they make the perfect Valentine’s Day dessert, but they’re filled with beneficial nutrients and minerals, so you certainly don’t have to feel bad about them. That’s our kind of dessert!

6. GOJI BERRY LIME SMOOTHIE FROM RAW REVIVE

If you’re after a goji berry filled snack that you can enjoy on-the-go, then this smoothie recipe is for you!

Flavors such as lime, pineapple, and strawberries compliment the natural sweetness of the goji berries, plus they allow this delicious smoothie to be packed-full of even more vitamins and minerals.

Simply top with some more goji berries and a sprig of mint and you’ve got yourself one refreshing drink for summer.

7. RAW LEMON AND GOJI BERRY CHEESECAKE FROM THE HEALTHY FAMILY AND HOME

This recipe follows the steps of a basic raw cheesecake but contains a superfood twist! This healthier version made with clean, real food ingredients is raw, vegan, gluten-free, dairy-free, egg-free, paleo-friendly and contains no refined sugar.

With other goodies, such as coconut oil, cashews, pecans, maple syrup, lemon juice, and pink Himalayan salt, you can truly feel good about this cheesecake.

8. NO-BAKE PROTEIN GOJI BERRY GRANOLA BARS FROM CITRON LIMETTE

These bars only take a few minutes to make, and they’re far healthier than store-bought protein bars.

They’re packed with healthy ingredients and make a wonderful gluten-free snack, plus they satisfy that mid-morning craving and give you energy before or after a workout. Sounds like a wonder bar to us!

9. GOJI BERRY SMOOTHIE FROM ANNA AND SARAH

This goji berry smoothie is an excellent and refreshing smoothie with a great combination of bananas, frozen berries, and goji berries.

It takes just 5 minutes to prepare but is so delicious that you’ll want to gulp it down within just seconds! The whole thing is brought together with a squeeze of honey for additional (yet natural) sweetness.

10. CHOCOLATE GOJI BERRY MACA TRUFFLES FROM JESSI’S KITCHEN

They might look and sound like a decadent dessert, but these truffles contain healthy ingredients such as goji berries, maca powder and cacao.

The flavor of the cacao balances the maca perfectly and then also compliments the tart goji berry. These truffles can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for several days. You also can recoat them in the maca/cacao powder if needed.

11. CACAO GOJI BERRY SMOOTHIE FROM LIVING WELL WITH NIC

This cacao goji berry smoothie is packed full of antioxidants from raw cacao powder, plus the goji berries give it the perfect sweet and chewy topping!

To make this scrumptious smoothie, you’ll need goji berries (of course), almond milk, zucchini, protein powder, avocado, chia seeds, lucuma powder, ashwagandha, truvia, fresh strawberries, and cacao nibs. Sounds incredibly healthy!

12. GOJI BERRIES, MUSHROOM AND SWEET POTATO SOUP FROM JAGRUTI’S COOKING ODYSSEY

This goji berries, mushroom and sweet potato vegan soup is nothing but a powerhouse of goodness!

Each and every ingredient used in this soup has their own medicinal benefit values, and it provides a family with a wholesome and hearty meal.

Goji berries are packed with nutritious value such as fibre, vitamin and minerals that help you to boost your immune system, making this soup the perfect meal to enjoy during cold and flu season.

13. OSMANTHUS AND GOJI BERRY AGAR FROM DAILY COOKING QUEST

Have you ever made Agar before? This pretty-as-a-picture dessert isn’t just good to look at – it also contains some incredibly beneficial ingredients, including goji berries, dried osmanthus flowers, and agar-agar powder.

We think it’d make the perfect dish to surprise your loved ones with next time you have a dinner party.

14. SUPER CACAO & GOJI BERRY BLISS BALLS FROM REAL FOOD PLEDGE

These cacao and goji berry bliss balls can be whipped up in less than ten minutes and are the perfect snack to have in the fridge for when visitors arrive, or even to enjoy with a hot cup of tea.

They contain all sorts of goodness too, such as almonds, cashews, dates, desiccated coconut, cacao powder, coconut oil, and of course, goji berries. Don’t mind if we do!

15. SPICY GOJI BERRY SOUP FROM WALLFLOWER KITCHEN

If you’ve been looking for an invigorating, energizing and delicious soup, then you just found it!

This soup will warm you from the inside out and contains a number of wholesome, healthy ingredients to make you feel pretty good about yourself too. Think goji berries, tomatoes, vegetable stock, onion, chili, cumin, coriander, and more.

16. GOJI BERRY TEA FROM WHAT TO COOK TODAY

To make this incredible goji berry tea, dried goji berries are steeped in hot water to release a mild fragrant aroma, which can then be enjoyed as a nourishing beverage.

These are the only two ingredients you need to enjoy this hot beverage too, so it’s quick, easy, and extremely beneficial for your health. You can even eat the hydrated goji berries once you’re done!

17. GARLIC & GOJI CHICKEN FROM SIMPLY JUNE

Here’s another winter warmer which comes with a long list of health benefits, thanks to the use of goji berries. Next time you feel like some Chinese inspired chicken, make this nutrient-packed dish instead!

It contains garlic, cinnamon, star anise, light soy sauce, goji berries, and other delicious ingredients.

18. PUMPKIN OVERNIGHT OATS FROM NATALIE’S HEALTH

These creamy and delicious pumpkin overnight oats are the perfect way to start your mornings. This recipe is loaded with healthy ingredients, including hearty oats, sweet pumpkin, and healing spices.

It’s a nutritious, added sugar-free meal ready in no time. In fact, you might even liken it to eating pumpkin pie for breakfast!

19. GOJI BERRY SPARKLING LEMONADE FROM BREWING HAPPINESS

If you can’t imagine what this tastes like, it’s basically a slightly sweet, slightly tart, slightly fizzy, slightly berry flavored lemonade. Sounds good to us!

It’s a great drink to enjoy during those hotter months, as lemonade is refreshing, whilst goji berries give it a seriously healthy and nutritious boost. We have a feeling the kids will love this sparkling beverage too!

20. SUPERFOOD CACAO FUDGE BITES FROM BAKERITA

We’ve said it before, and we’ll say it again: why should vegans or the gluten-intolerant miss out on treats such as fudge?

These fudge bites cater to vegans, the paleo diet, and those who can’t eat gluten, plus they’re packed-full of superfoods, such as cashews, goji berries, chia seeds, cacao, and more.

They’re also filled with antioxidants and healthy fats, so you really can feel good about eating them.

21. GOJI BERRY & ROSE CHOCOLATE FUDGE BARK FROM CHARLEY’S HEALTH

These look like a work of art and we’re sure they taste delectable too! Many of us love chocolate fudge bark, but when it’s topped with superfoods such as goji berries, you really can go to town on it.

The petals are also a nice touch, making this dessert the perfect treat to give to a loved one on Valentine’s Day (or to enjoy yourself – we won’t judge!).

22. WARM QUINOA SWEET POTATO KALE SALAD WITH GOJI BERRIES FROM TASTEFUL VENTURE

This warm quinoa sweet potato kale salad with goji berries comes together in about 30 minutes and is so hearty and healthy!

Quinoa on its own can taste quite bland, but once you add in ingredients such as sweet potato, nutmeg, baby kale, goji berries, honey, and more, you’ve got yourself a tasty dish that everyone is sure to love.

The best part? It contains 0% cholesterol, 37% of your daily intake of vitamin A and 18% of your daily intake of vitamin C. How good is that?!

Which Goji Berry Recipes Will You Try?

There you have it – 22 tasty recipes containing goji berries to give you and your family a superfood boost. Remember, goji berries aren’t just delicious; they’re also excellent sources of antioxidants, fiber, protein and a range of vitamins and minerals including iron, copper, selenium and vitamins A and C.

And when it comes to health benefits, the list is seemingly endless – from helping to prevent premature aging and dramatically boosting the immune system, to protecting against cancer, improving blood sugar levels, helping with weight loss, lowering cholesterol, and so much more.

Next time you’re contemplating making breakfast, lunch, dinner, dessert, or a snack, consider if you can add goji berries to the meal to make it more nutritious and tastier. Your health will certainly thank you for it!

Which goji berry recipes will you be making? We’d love to hear from you in the Comments section below.

Melanie

Melanie Clarke is the founder of Whim Online Magazine, an online magazine based in Australia that has a strong focus on whimsical + dreamy photography, as well as art and fashion content.

All posts

20 Fun DIY Indoor Plant Ideas for Beginners

Indoor plants might be the in-thing at the moment, but this trend comes with a number of benefits for your health and wellbeing too. You see, plants have proven to reduce stress and create a feeling of positivity when placed in our indoor environments.

Additionally, studies have shown that indoor plants reduce carbon dioxide levels, increase humidity, reduce air born dust levels, and reduce levels of certain pollutants, such as benzene and nitrogen dioxide.

If you look around your home, you might find that it’s lacking in the greenery department. While a plant here or there can work wonders, the trick is to infuse your indoor environment with as much foliage as you can to truly reap the health benefits.

That’s why we’ve rounded-up 20 fun DIY ways to include plants in your home – from clever hacks and hints, to cute homemade planters, and brilliant plant décor ideas. Let’s get started!

1. DIY SELF-WATERING PLANTERS FROM MUMTASTIC

If you’ve under watered or overwatered plants in the past, you many be hesitant to jump on the indoor plant train.

Never fear, as this clever DIY will show you how to create self-watering planters which basically look after the plant for you. The concept is simple: the string sucks up the water from the bottom of the planter and feeds it to the top of the plant. Genius!

2. TILED MOROCCAN PLANTERS FROM PILLAR BOX BLUE

Need a gorgeous planter to house your indoor plant? Not only do these DIY Moroccan tile planters look incredible, but you won’t believe how easy they are to make.

All you need is 4 Moroccan style tiles (from your local tile shop), superglue, a 2-liter plastic soda bottle, and scissors. Each planter takes just 5-10 minutes to create too, so you’ll soon have an indoor garden of Moroccan planters in no time!

3. DIY DINO PLANTERS FROM HOMES TO LOVE

Have you seen these quirky dinosaur planters at a local makers market or online? They’re perfect for housing cacti and succulents, as these low-maintenance plants need little water or attention to thrive.

To make your own, all you’ll need is a hand drill, plastic dinosaur figurines, wire snips or a craft knife, matte spray-paint, a fine paintbrush, metallic paint, planter soil, and small plants.

4. DIY TERRACOTTA CLAY HANGING PLANTERS FROM FALL FOR DIY

If you’ve been dying to get in touch with your inner ceramicist, then this DIY terracotta planter tutorial is for you. To make these, terracotta-colored air-dry clay has been used, so there’s no need to invest in a pottery wheel just yet.

Here’s another secret: the plants shown in this photo are actually fake! While you can sit some real air plants in these, fake plants are a great option for those with a black thumb who still wish to feel at ease with extra greenery around them.

5. DIY SUMMER AIR PLANT WREATH FROM OH SO BEAUTIFUL PAPER

Air plants are perfect for wreaths since all you really have to do is mist them once in a while!

Along with some of these beauties, you’ll also need embroidery hoops, white fabric, a black Sharpie, scissors, a glue gun, and any embellishments you wish to add in order to complete this project.

This is one the kids will also enjoy taking part in. After all, the more help, the merrier!

6. DIY LADDER PLANT STAND FROM THE MERRY THOUGHT

There’s nothing like a gorgeous and spacious new plant stand to encourage you to bring some more plants into your home. This DIY version is fairly easy to create, and will also match a variety of décor styles, ensuring it doesn’t clash with your current surroundings.

It might take a few hours to put it all together, but once you’ve completed this project, you’ll feel so proud and accomplished!

7. HOMEMADE ROSE QUARTZ PLANTER FROM ADORABLEST

Air plants are so easy to care for. They don’t need soil to grow, but benefit greatly from a light dunking in water around once a week.

Another benefit of this plant is that it can live in a variety of decorative planters, including this beautiful rose quartz rock. While this is a stunning home décor idea to bring more plants into your surroundings, it would also serve as the perfect gift for a loved one.

8. HOW TO MAKE A HANGING SUCCULENT GARDEN FROM THE HIP HOMESTEAD

This DIY tutorial will have you combining succulents with a fun gardening technique called Kokedama. Kokedama simply refers to moss balls or string gardens, helping you to create your very own hanging succulent garden.

Hanging gardens are great for small indoor spaces, plus they’re cheap and easy to make. Another benefit is that they only take a couple cups of soil each!

9. DIY FLOATING PLANT SHELF FROM HOMETALK

If you’re lacking floor space to fill with plants, then another clever idea is to make your own floating plant shelf.

This would be wonderful hanging near your bed, particularly if housing plants such as the snake plant, which is one of the very few plants that continues to produce oxygen when the sun goes down. To make it, all you need is a wooden plate, as well as yarn and scissors. So easy!

10. SIMPLE DIY MACRAME PLANT HANGER FROM FARMHOUSE ON BOONE

When it comes to this indoor plant DIY, the possibilities are endless. In fact, once you get the hang of making these macramé, jute-style plant hangers, you could easily whip-up three of them within just 30 minutes!

Plus, you can make them larger or smaller, or even tie multiple hangers underneath each other to create more of a vertical garden.

11. DIY MINI MACRAMÉ PLANT HANGERS FROM THINK, MAKE, SHARE

Speaking of macramé plant hangers, here’s a more colorful DIY version from the clever creative studio of Hallmark. All you need to make them is cord, twine, or string and a small ring.

They’re perfect for housing mini plants and hoisting them up into the air (particularly where little hands – or paws – can’t get to them).

12. CUSTOM POTTED HANGING HERB GARDEN FROM FRESH MOMMY BLOG

This DIY project is perfect for those with limited indoor space, yet who want to inject their space with a wide range of plants to boost their health and wellbeing.

This custom potted hanging herb garden is fun to make (just a couple of hours from start to finish!) and looks so good hanging from any ceiling.

This tutorial has filled their hanging garden with herbs, but you could mix it up with basically any small plants your heart desires.

13. DIY PLANT WALL MADE FROM A BROOMSTICK FROM GARDENISTA

Here’s another clever hanging garden hack, this time featuring one made using a broomstick! The planters hang from wooden curtain rings that Maria bought at a secondhand store.

For planters she uses a mix of vessels, including clear glass jars and vases that she finds at thrift stores. Not only is this indoor plant project beautiful and simple to create, but it’s also very budget friendly.

14. DIY INDOOR WATER GARDEN FROM THE MERRY THOUGHT

If you always forget to water your indoor plants, then this might be the tutorial for you. These DIY water gardens don’t just look stunning – they’re also very low maintenance and serve as the perfect plant-inspired décor.

All you’ll need to make it happen is a glass jar, aquatic plants of your choice, aquarium stones, and water (of course). Simple, yet effective!

15. DIY WOOD LEATHER PLANT HANGER FROM MADE IN A DAY

This DIY wood leather plant hanger is made from a salad bowl! It’s a brilliant way to create a beautiful hanging planter for your new plant.

All you need is a wooden bowl (bonus points if it’s from an op-shop), leather cording, acrylic paint, a paint brush, washi tape, clear spray enamel, and a hand drill.

16. DIY BOHO PLANT HANGER FROM BEYOND THE PICKET FENCE

If you’ve got some embroidery hoops and a saucer lying around at home, then you’ve got yourself a DIY plant hanger that’ll need to be filled with a plant, stat.

This project is like no other plant hanger you’ve seen before, so it’s sure to add some quirkiness and bohemian vibes to your indoor space.

17. THREE EASY STEPS TO PLANT PROPAGATION FROM PAPER & STITCH

Sometimes, the answer to having more plants in your home doesn’t come from buying additional ones, but from propagating the plants you already own.

This tutorial shows you how you can correctly propagate your plants using just three easy steps. Propagating is also a great way to spread the plant love with your friends and family, without spending much money at all!

18. DIY PLANT BOX STAND FROM THE MERRY THOUGHT

If you require more plant storage before you purchase additional plants, then you’ll love this tutorial for a plant box stand.

It doesn’t take up a lot of floor space, so it’s perfect for tiny apartments or studios, plus you can sit it directly under a window to give your plants the perfect amount of exposure to sunlight. What plants will you be filling your planter with?

19. DIY NESPRESSO CUPS TO TINY PLANTERS FROM SPRING IN FIALTA

Here’s a really clever way to not only bring more greenery into your home, but to upcycle those pesky Nespresso containers that seem to fill-up the trash can.

To make your own, you’ll need some of these cups, as well as 7 wooden sticks, tiny air plants, glue, string, an embroidery needle, and scissors. Then, simply sit the unique planter on your desk, dining table, or a windowsill for maximum effect.

20. DIY PAPER CHINESE MONEY PLANT FROM APPLE OF MY DIY

Ok, we just had to include this one last! Many people are scared to bring indoor plants into their home because they haven’t been able to keep them alive in the past, but why should they miss out on infusing their indoor space with stunning greenery?

This DIY Chinese money plant is made from paper, so it doesn’t require watering, nor will it need to be re-potted or die. It’s a win-win!

Start Making Your Own Indoor Plants

There you have it – 20 fun DIY ways to include more plants in your home! Remember, plants don’t just look pretty, but they also have several advantages for you and your family’s health and wellbeing.

They’re great at purifying the air, as well as boosting a person’s happiness and productivity levels when placed indoors.

It doesn’t matter how big or small your indoor space is too; these DIY projects will suit any type of home and successfully help you to bring some of the great outdoors inside.

Which DIY plant projects will you be creating for yourself? We’d love to hear from you in the Comments section below!

Melanie

Melanie Clarke is the founder of Whim Online Magazine, an online magazine based in Australia that has a strong focus on whimsical + dreamy photography, as well as art and fashion content.

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