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Whole Leaf Cat Mint for Herbal Hair Rinses-- or for kitties

Whole Leaf Cat Mint for Herbal Hair Rinses-- or for kitties

Description

Sweeter and more floral than catnip, catmint delivers many of the same benefits to your hair in the form of a light herbal conditioning rinse that won't weigh hair down.

Nepeta grandiflora (Giant Catmint or Caucasus Catmint) is lusher than true catnip and has dark green leaves and dark blue, almost purple flowers. While cats like it, it doesn't caused the same crazed effect that true catnip does, and its leaves are smaller and softer to the touch.

Why whole leaf cat mint? When making herbal teas and infusions, whole leaf is always best. Normally cat mint comes sold for pets, and to get the most bulk the leaves, flowers, and stems are all shredded and sold together.

Stems contain high amounts of tannins, which can make hair crunchy and dry. Using whole leaves ensures a minimal release of tannins, and a maximum release of conditioning oils and herbal conditioners.

To make a cat mint rinse for your hair, place 4 tablespoons of your desired herb in a cup or bowl and add 2 cups of boiling water. Cover and allow to cool. To make a slightly stronger rinse, take 1/4 oz of herbs and simmer in a quart (4 cups) of water.

For best results use distilled water.

Regardless of the method of infusion, allow the mixture to cool. Strain out the herbs. You will need 1 large bowl and a cup to apply. Standing in the shower, place the large bowl on the floor and kneel over it. Pour the rinse through your hair, catching the rinse in the bowl. Transfer the rinse to the cup, and then pour back through your hair into the bowl. Repeat at least 15 times. You may delay rinsing until later to allow your hair to drink in the benefits.

Our cat mint is 100% organic, hand-harvested and dried to maximize the potency of the herbs

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Disclaimer: Unfortunately this is a necessity so bear with me while I go through this. I hope you will use common sense and thoroughly research the herbs and oils in my products before you use them, but research is no substitute for seeking the advice of a licensed practitioner. As individuals we all have different constitutions, sensitivities, allergic reactions and possible health conditions. Our products and the information set forth herein are not designed to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease nor should any information contained herein be read as prescribing any specific remedy or guaranteeing any specific result. They should not be ingested or taken internally. If you have any reason to suspect serious illness, seek appropriate medical advice and care promptly. I cannot provide you with medical advice, required dosage information, potential drug/herb reactions, or assistance with questions relating to injury, illness, etc.

The Importance of Allergen Testing: Although our products are made with all natural ingredients, many people are allergic to natural ingredients such as certain plants, nuts, and oils. An ingredient that is very mild and soothing for one person can be an allergen for another! Each product description on our website includes a complete list of ingredients. Please read through all ingredients listed. People who have food allergies are not always allergic to the same items in skin care products. In case you are in doubt do an "allergy patch test."

Allergy Patch Test: Apply a small amount of item you are testing* on the upper part of your inner arm (at the crook of the elbow) and cover it with a bandage. Choose a time of day where you can leave the patch test in place for least 24 hours without getting it wet. If you are sensitive to any of the ingredients, a reaction such as reddening, burning, itching, or other irritation, should occur within twenty-four hours of application. If you don't see or feel any reaction, the preparation is probably safe to use. (See note under Allergic contact dermatitis.)
*If you are testing herbs, mix a small amount of herbs with water to make a paste. Apply the herbal paste for the patch test.

Why Patch Test? Patch testing is a way of identifying a substance that causes contact dermatitis (inflammation of the skin). There are two types of contact dermatitis: irritant contact dermatitis and allergic contact dermatitis.

Irritant contact dermatitis: An irritant reaction does not involve the immune system. It is most pronounced immediately after the patch is removed and fades over the next day. Although a substance that causes an irritant reaction may exacerbate skin conditions such as eczema, the reaction will not get worse with repeated exposure to the irritant.

Allergic contact dermatitis: An allergic reaction is due to substance called an allergen and occurs only in those who are allergic to that particular substance. These reactions involve the immune system. Since an allergic reaction may take a few days to develop, if you are an allergic type person it is important to keep an eye on the patch area for a few days after the patch is removed before using the product. A substance that causes an allergic reaction should be avoided completely. The more times the skin is exposed to the substance, the worse the allergic reaction can become.

Added on Oct 18, 2009