Simply Hibi

Simply Hibi is an unusual but delicious Hibiscus infusion drink, crammed full of antioxidants and health giving properties.  This tropical flower has an incredible reputation as a medicinal aid dating back hundreds of years.  As we turn our attention more towards health and well being, there has been a resurgence in interest in the Hibiscus flower.

Rich in antioxidants, flavonoids and anthocyanins it is a natural remedy for high blood pressure and fights the harmful free radicals in the body to help maintain health.  Simply Hibi is an all natural drink made from 85% Hibiscus infused water and 15% red grape juice.

I was sent two cartons of Simply Hibi to test out for the purpose of this review.  I was a little nervous about trying it.  I had visions of it tasting floral, a bit like bubble bath!  But I was totally off the mark with my assumption.  Instead it was rich and dark with a gentle flavour akin to blackcurrant and berries.  It wasn't too sweet as it was sweetened with only naturally occurring sugars.  I loved the deep, red colour.  Being tee-total, I think this would make a lovely alternative to red wine with a meal.  It had a similar depth and consistency.

Kizzy says "It is delicious and refreshing.  It's nice to have a different juice in the morning."
Ella says "It's like a cross between grape juice and blackcurrant juice.  It is different."
Dad Ian said "I am surprised it doesn't taste floral.  It's fruity, rich, thick and has a berry flavour.  Very pleasant!"
We all  gave it a thumbs up!

The Sabdariffa Hibiscus plants used to produce Simply Hibi are grown by 2,000 small scale farmers in Uganda who derive their livelihoods from the flower's production. They use land not used for growing their own food for growing this tropical flower. This initiative provides much needed funds for schooling and healthcare.  The farmers are also trained in organic farming methods and practices.  It is reassuring to know that ethically traded Hibiscus is at the heart of the Simply Hibi story, helping African farmers.

Simply HIbi is available in selected Waitrose and Sainsbury's stores for £1.39 a litre.  It is also available in Holland and Barrett where a 330ml bottle of Organic Simply Hibi costs £1.59.

You can also buy online at www.simplyhibi.co.uk

Nelsons' Natural Healthcare

For over 150 years, Nelsons have been producing natural alternative and complementary remedies to help us through our daily lives.  They family owned business is a driving force in natural healthcare producing the highest quality homeopathic remedies and healthcare products.  The company's values hinge on quality, efficacy, regulation and integrated health.  They are committed to sustainability and make every effort to protect our environment.  Impressive credentials I'm sure you'll agree!

I am a big fan of Bach's Rescue Remedy so Nelsons is a well known brand Inside the Wendy House.  When I was approached to review some of Nelsons' healthcare products, I was eager to see if they were as effective and impressive.

I was sent a tube of Nelsons' Tea Tree Cream and Nelsons' Arnicare Arnica Cooling Gel for the purpose of this review.

Arnicare Cooling Gel 

The average person walks the equivalent to 3.5 times around the world in their lifetime!  The demands of life, the school run, running around after a toddler or traipsing around the shops can leave our poor legs and feet crying out for some care and attention.  A world wide poll found that 45% of respondents suffer from aching muscles on a daily basis. 

Arnicare Cooling Gel combines the natural healing properties of Arnica with refreshing grapefruit oil and menthol to cool and soothe.  It is ideal for rubbing over over-worked muscles, legs, ankle and feet.  It is non-greasy and easily absorbed.

The transparent gel had a mild citrus scent and rubs on easily and is quickly absorbs into the skin.  It instantly cools and then a deep warming sensation washes over your tired muscles.  It was a lovely feeling.  Knowing the healing properties of arnica, I know this gel works more than just skin deep.  This would be perfect to use after exercising at the gym or going for a jog (for sporty types!) and is all natural unlike some of the harsh muscle rub products available on the high street.  It's ideal for any busy mum who is on her feet all day and is just so lovely and refreshing.  

Priced at £4.85 for a 30g tube, it is readily available from pharmacies and health food stores nationwide.  Check out www.arnicare.co.uk for further details.

Tea Tree Cream

As a mum, I know all too well how many scrapes and grazes a child can get from playground tumbles.  Nelsons have produced the first natural antiseptic cream to be awarded the Ethical Consumer Best Buy Label for its ethical and environmental credentials.  

The rich, white cream uses the purest, finest Tea Tree Oil from Australia renowned for its natural antiseptic properties.  It is easily absorbed and soothing.  It is reassuring to use a natural product on our children's cuts and grazes.  I tried it on a shaving nick on my leg and it didn't sting at all and was soothing when gently applied.  A really nice natural alternative for the first aid box!

Priced at £4.55 for a 30g tube and £6.20 for 50g, it is available at Holland and Barrett, Boots, Lloyds Pharmacies, the pharmacy counter at some supermarkets and good independent stockists.

Nelsons also sell a great Arnicare Kids Stick for bumps and bruises.  It is a fun green colour and can be applied directly to kids' delicate skin.  It is perfect for popping in your pocket or handbag.  For £5.35, it provides a instant, natural formulation in case of minor accidents out and about or at home.  I have used one of these before and it certainly offered a distraction after a knock and made my child feel like something was being done to help her.  The arnica is renowned for its healing properties so I'm sure it helped with the bruising too. It is TLC in a stick leaving little ones free to get back to their adventuring!!

I really like Nelsons Natural Healthcare products.  The range is impressive and the quality is great.  Take a look at their website for more information on the products, the comapny and for healthcare advice and tips.

Ear Doc Review

When I was approached by Bloggomy to be a guest reviewer for the new Ear Doc device, I was most happy to oblige.  As a mum I know how awful ear infections can be.  My 18 month old has just suffered from a double ear infection and it was so horrendous to see him in such pain.  As parents we dose our little ones up with Calpol but that only addresses the symptoms and not the problem itself.

The Ear Doc offers a non-invasive, safe way of relieving ear pain in both adults or children.  It works by sending gentle vibrations into the ear which opens up blocked tubes which relieves pressure, reduces swelling and allows fluids to drain away.  I was given an Ear Doc device to use for the purpose of this review.

The head of the Ear Doc is held behind the ear.  The sliding switch turns on the vibration which can be increased with use.  The gentle vibration shakes the soft tissue inside the ear releasing fluids and reducing pressure on the eardrum.  It says it can stop earaches in seconds and 94% of people tested reported the relief or elimination of ear pain.

The Ear Doc is also recommended for swimmers, divers or for air travellers.  It can be used in the treatment of ear ache caused by sinusitis or colds, glue ear, ear infection, hearing loss, Eustachian Tube dysfunction or fluid in the middle ear.  It can be used in conjunction with medication, however as with all complimentary treatments medical advice is recommended.

As none of my children had an ear infection at the time of testing (thankfully for them!!), I can not comment on the effectiveness of the Ear Doc for pain relief.  However, the device is easy to use and you can feel the vibrating sensation in your ear.  If my children get a heavy cold I will use the Ear Doc to try to prevent any build up of fluid in the ear.

The Ear Doc website has plenty of advice, medical opinions, reviews and testimonials.  If ear ache is a problem in your household, I'd recommend that you take a look.  I love the idea of a safe, effective,  non-invasive, drug-free remedy for a problem that affects so many children.