The following are some of my favorite products. Remember that each person is unique and has his or her own sensitivities/allergies. If you question the appropriateness of any of the following products for your personal care, discuss it with your physician.
LUSH’s Ultrabalm: A lightweight, non-petroleum balm for hands and face (www.lush.com).
Emollients: Cerave, Cetaphil, Vanacreme, Coconut Oil (Liquid). Emollients help your skin stay moist and hydrated. The best time to apply an emollient is immediately after showering or washing hands, where there is moisture present to capture.
Tooth Soap Shreds. These shreds are a refreshing way to clean your teeth. Most toothpaste products, even “natural ones,” have glycerin as an ingredient. Glycerin can leave a film that allows sugars to adhere to your teeth. Tooth Soap products are glycerin free. Tooth shreds are also very economical! Use only a ¼” shred to clean your teeth and leave them with a remarkably fresh, smooth feel (www.toothsoap.com).
Tongue Cleaner/Scraper. There’s nothing quite like a tongue that is clear of congestion from reflux, food films, and morning saliva. Tongue brushing is not sufficient to clear this substance called “Ama” in Ayurvedic medicine. Clean/scrape your tongue once in the morning and once in the evening, just before brushing. An example of a tongue cleaner/scraper can be found at this link: http://www.iloveherbal.com/stainless-steel-tongue-cleaner-scraper/
Sleep Right© Mouth Guard. For those of you who grind your teeth while you sleep, the Sleep Right© mouth guard is a simple, no-boil mouth guard that can protect your teeth. Check with your dentist before trying this simple device. Available at various local stores.
LUSH’s The Greeench. A green-tea based body powder from LUSH , The Greeench is great for keeping your feet and armpits dry.
Dead Sea Bath Salts. Try these soothing crystals for baths or foot soaks. Many brands are available.
Castor Oil. A multi-purpose oil, castor oil can ease aches and pains and soften areas that have scars. Castor oil is messy, but worth it. Soak a piece of flannel cloth or soak a cotton make-up pad in castor oil. Cover your aching joints or scars with the flannel, then apply a heat pack for 15-20 minutes.
Disclosure statement: Dr. Kocourek does not receive incentives of any kind for recommending the above products.
© Trinity Integrative Family Medicine, Inc., glkocourek Aug-2016; latest revision 09-May-2021