I Tried Natural Wormers for My Dogs. Here’s What Actually Helped.

I’m Kayla. I live with two goofballs: Maple (45 lb rescue, loves mud) and Bean (12 lb terrier, bossy but sweet). Last spring, Bean had a mild roundworm case. The vet gave a standard dewormer. It worked fast. After that, I wanted gentler tools for upkeep. You know what? I wanted fewer tummy issues and fewer “is that a worm?” panic moments.

I tested three “natural” wormer options at home. Real food bowls. Real walks. Real poop bags. Here’s how it went. (If you prefer the quick-reference version I posted on Arena Naturals, you can read it here.)

(Quick note: if you see rice-like bits or spaghetti-like worms, please call your vet. I did. Natural stuff is for light support, not big infections.)

The Setup: What I Looked For

  • Easy dosing for both dogs
  • No tummy blow-ups
  • Clear poop checks and a fecal test at the vet
  • Reasonable cost, or at least not wild

I kept a simple log on my phone: day, dose, poop notes (normal/soft), and any scooting. Not fancy. Just honest.

1) Earth Animal “No More Worms” (Herbal Tincture)

My first try was Earth Animal’s No More Worms. It’s a liquid. You give drops by weight. The smell is… earthy. A bit bitter. Maple didn’t care. Bean made a face, so I mixed it with a teaspoon of plain yogurt. Problem solved.

  • How I used it: Twice a day for two weeks after Bean’s vet dewormer course. Then a few days on, a few days off when we were at the dog park a lot.
  • What I saw: Less scooting by week one. Poop stayed firm. No gas flare-ups. Maple’s coat even looked a touch shinier, but that could be the yogurt talking.
  • Vet check: Fecal test at 6 weeks was clear for both dogs. I can’t say the herbs “killed” anything. The vet meds did the main job. But the tincture seemed gentle and steady for upkeep.
  • Downsides: It’s not cheap. And the taste can be strong. I had to hide it in food for Bean.

Would I use it again? Yes—during high-risk times (camping, dog park season). It felt like a nice nudge for gut health.

2) Verm-X Crunchies for Dogs (Herbal Treats)

Next, I tried Verm-X Crunchies. Think crunchy little herbal biscuits. They smell like a beefy stock cube and a spice cabinet had a baby. Maple begged for them. Bean approved too, which is rare. Fun side note: that rich, meaty scent sent me down a backyard-BBQ rabbit hole, which ended with a full taste test of natural-casing hot dogs—worth a read if you love a good grill snap.

  • How I used it: As the bag said—small daily amount based on weight.
  • What I saw: Zero tummy drama. Poop stayed well-formed. Less grass eating. And no foul breath bloom, which sometimes hits Bean in summer.
  • Vet check: Fecal test at 10 weeks still clear. I liked the “little bit every day” rhythm. It fit our routine.
  • Downsides: Cost adds up for a big dog. Maple goes through them fast. Also, you have to be consistent. If you forget days, it’s pointless.

If you want simple and snack-like, this was the easiest of the bunch. I kept a bag by the leash so I wouldn’t forget.

3) Food-Grade Diatomaceous Earth (DE)

I’ll be honest. I wanted this to be great. People rave about it online. I tried a light sprinkle in food for four days. It made a huge dusty mess. Bean sniffed and walked off. Maple ate it, but looked annoyed.

  • What I saw: No real change in poop or scooting.
  • What my vet said: There isn’t good proof it works inside the body for worms. It can also be irritating.
  • I stopped: Day five, I tossed it. Not worth the hassle.

So, DE is a no from me. For the yard? Maybe. In my dogs? I’m out.

Little Gut Helpers I Kept Using

These aren’t worm killers. But they keep things calm, which matters.

  • A spoon of plain pumpkin puree a few times a week
  • A sprinkle of ground pumpkin seed as a topper (tiny amount; it’s fiber and a nutty taste)
  • A spoon of plain kefir or yogurt for Bean to hide herbs

It sounds small. Yet it helps with regularity, which makes it easier to notice if something’s off.

What Worked Best (For Us)

  • For maintenance: Verm-X daily treats were the easiest and most dog-approved.
  • For “we’ve been in muddy creeks all week”: Earth Animal tincture felt like steady support.
  • For clear answers: I still do fecal tests. Every 3–6 months, or after travel. Peace of mind beats guessing.

And here’s the thing—I wanted a natural fix. But I still called my vet. Both can be true. Nature can help. Science keeps us safe.

When I’d Skip Natural And Go Straight To The Vet

  • You see rice-like bits near the tail (tapeworm segments)
  • You see spaghetti-like worms in poop or vomit
  • Your dog is losing weight, has a dull coat, or a swollen belly
  • Bloody diarrhea or sudden, sharp belly pain

I’ve been there. Fast care is best. After treatment, natural tools can help keep the gut happy.

Costs, Smells, And All The Tiny Details

  • Earth Animal No More Worms: Herbal smell, a little bitter; easy to mix with yogurt; not cheap, but you use small amounts.
  • Verm-X Crunchies: Smell like beef and herbs; easy daily habit; pricier for big dogs, fine for small ones.
  • DE: Dusty, messy, poor taste; I won’t buy again.

One more thing: if your dog has fleas, fix that too. Fleas can spread tapeworms. I learned that the hard way one summer. Flea control plus poop pickup goes a long way. Keeping squirrels out of the garden helps too—my dogs stopped sampling fallen tomatoes after I tried a few natural squirrel repellents that actually worked.
If you’re looking for a curated lineup of gentle, vetted supplements, I’ve found the catalog at Arena Naturals helpful for comparing ingredients and prices.

Simple Tips That Helped Me

  • Start low, then build to the label dose if your dog’s tummy is touchy.
  • Mix tinctures into yogurt or wet food for picky pups.
  • Weigh or at least eyeball treats by size; big dogs need more—sad for the wallet, but true.
  • Keep a tiny poop diary. Sounds silly. Works wonders.
  • Do a fecal test every season if your dog’s social or you hike a lot.

Dog care can be a workout for your back—especially if you’re lugging food bags or crouching over endless poop patrols. When I’m down in South Carolina visiting family, I treat myself to a tension-busting massage and use this Fort Mill massage guide to scope out well-reviewed spots; it saves me from guesswork and helps me pick a clean, reputable place fast.

Lots of younger dog owners DM me for advice. If you’re a teen balancing homework with puppy duty and want quick, judgment-free pointers, hop into InstantChat’s teen chat rooms—they’re fully moderated, focused on teen users, and packed with real-time pet-care tips from people your own age.

Honestly, that little log on my phone kept me sane. I could spot patterns fast. Like, “Hey, scooting popped up after creek days.”

My Bottom Line

  • I’d buy Verm-X again for Bean. It’s easy, and she likes it.
  • I’d keep Earth Animal No More Worms on hand for travel weeks and dog park binges.
  • I wouldn’t mess with diatomaceous earth in food. Not for us.

Natural tools can help. They’re not magic. Pair them with vet checks, clean habits, and good food, and you’ll feel a lot calmer. I do.

If you try any of these, go slow and watch your dog. They’ll tell you what works—sometimes with a wag, sometimes with a side-eye at the bowl. And yes, that counts as feedback.

I Tried Natural Car Air Fresheners So You Don’t Have to

I’m Kayla, and my car smells like life. Kids. A wet dog. Fast food fries. Coffee. You know the mix. I also get headaches from fake perfume. So I went looking for natural stuff that actually works. I tested a few for months. Some won me over. One went straight back. Curious about every product I put through its paces? I laid out the complete play-by-play in a detailed roundup.

Let me explain what stuck, what flopped, and the small tricks that kept my SUV from smelling like a locker room.
If you’re curious about how natural odor absorbers stack up, check out the research-backed comparisons over at Arenaturals.

My Workhorse: A Bamboo Charcoal Bag (PURGGO)

This one lives in my car full-time. It’s a simple gray bag filled with bamboo charcoal. I strapped it to the back of my passenger headrest, so it sits near the middle of the car.

Week one, I thought it was a scam. No smell change. Week two, the stale dog scent started to fade. By week three, the car just smelled like… nothing. Not fake lemon. Not “ocean breeze.” Just clean air.

It’s not magic. It’s slow. But it’s steady. After a soccer night with muddy cleats and an open bag of chips, the next morning smelled normal. That was the aha for me.

  • What I liked: no scent at all, no headaches, lasts all year, “recharges” in the sun.
  • What bugged me: it takes time, and it won’t beat a fresh spill in minutes.

Little tip: once a month, I set it on the dash in the sun for an hour. It wakes up the charcoal. Sounds odd, but it works.

The Quick Fix: Real Citrus Spray (Citrus Magic)

For fast cleanup, I keep a small citrus spray in the door pocket. Mine smells like an orange you just peeled. I use two small spritzes after drive-thru nights or when the dog shakes off rain in the back seat.

It clears the “food fog” fast. But it doesn’t last long. That’s okay. I don’t want a heavy cloud anyway.

  • What I liked: smells like fruit, not perfume; works right away.
  • Heads-up: don’t spray the dash or screen; it can get a little tacky if you overdo it. I stick to the floor area and under the back seat.

Real-world test: I spilled iced coffee in the cup holder. Wiped it up, sprayed once under the front seat, and cracked the windows for five minutes. No weird dairy smell the next day. Thank goodness.

The Cute One: A Stainless Vent Clip + Essential Oils

This one is simple and kind of fun. It’s a little metal clip with a felt pad inside. I add 3 drops of oil, clip it to the vent, and I’m set. I use Plant Therapy oils because they don’t make my head pound.

My weekday blend:

  • 2 drops lemon for a fresh kick
  • 1 drop peppermint for focus (helps my kid with car nausea, too)

On long trips, I switch to lavender. Calmer vibes. During a heat wave, the scent can get strong, so I use just 1–2 drops then.

  • What I liked: I control the scent, and it’s cheap to refill.
  • What bugged me: it fades after 2–3 days, so you need to re-drop. Also, mint can be too bold with the heat cranked.

Funny moment: I once added grapefruit before morning carpool. The whole row of kids asked if I packed popsicles. I’ll call that a win.

The One I Returned: Gel Beads With “Fresh Linen”

I wanted it to work. It was cute. But the smell punched me. It filled the car with a fake laundry scent, and I got a headache 15 minutes in. My son felt queasy, too. Back it went. Lesson learned: “fresh linen” doesn’t mean natural. Check the label for essential oils or plant-based notes, not “fragrance blend.”

Real-Life Smell Tests I Tried

  • Rainy dog day: bamboo bag brought the smell down by morning; citrus spray took the edge off right away.
  • Fries and nuggets night: two citrus spritzes + cracked windows for 5 minutes; no stale oil the next day.
  • Gym bag Friday: vent clip with lemon/peppermint made the car feel bright; charcoal kept it from building up.
  • Coffee spill: wipe, spray under seat, charcoal took care of the rest.

Small Habits That Help Way More Than You Think

These aren’t fancy. But they matter. Those same small-change vibes carried over when I swapped my old rinse for a plant-based one—catch the honest rinse-and-spit saga if fresh breath is on your radar.

  • Crack the windows for the first minute of every drive.
  • Shake floor mats once a week; sprinkle a little baking soda under mats, then vacuum later.
  • Swap your cabin air filter each year. It’s like changing your car’s nose.
  • Keep wet gear in a tote. Don’t let it stew under the seats.

So, What’s My Setup?

I run a combo:

  • Bamboo charcoal bag full-time for steady odor control.
  • Vent clip with oils for mood and light scent, tailored to the season.
  • Citrus spray for fast fixes after food or spills.

Could you use just one? Sure. If you want zero scent, get the charcoal and give it two to three weeks. If you want a quick “ahh, that’s nice” smell for guests, go with the vent clip and a gentle oil like lemon or lavender. If you’re a food-in-the-car family (hi, same), keep the citrus spray handy.

Honestly, I tried to make this hard. But the simple stuff worked. Clean air, calm head, happy kid—my little SUV doesn’t smell like a snack bar anymore. And on long drives, with that tiny whisper of lemon, it even feels a bit like summer.

Keeping the momentum, I’ve also road-tested plant-based body lotions to see if they can stand up to dry winter skin—spoiler alert: some totally do.

Bonus tip: once your ride smells fresh and you’re feeling good behind the wheel, you might want to build a little anticipation before your next date night—check out these sexting ideas to score creative, consent-friendly prompts that can turn a routine “on my way” text into playful excitement for both of you.

If part of that date-night prep involves scouting a relaxing massage spot to melt away the week’s tension, scroll through the local spa reviews compiled at this Decatur massage guide for candid insights, current photos, and need-to-know details that help you pick a trustworthy, treatment-worthy location before you even pull out of the driveway.

I Tried “Natural” Black Hair Dye So You Don’t Freak Out Like I Did

I’ve got thick, wavy hair. It sits at my shoulders and frizzes in July for sport. I also have a halo of silver at my temples. Cute under sunlight, not so cute on Zoom. So I went hunting for a natural-looking black dye that didn’t fry my scalp.
One of the first sites I pored over was Arena Naturals, a deep well of plant-based color tips and ingredient breakdowns that helped me narrow the field fast. I especially liked their blow-by-blow recap of a real-life dye job—it’s basically a dress rehearsal for going black—which let me preview the mess and the payoff before I even opened my packets.

Here’s what I learned from three real tries, plus a few oops moments I wish someone had told me.

My hair, my rules (mostly)

  • Hair type: 2B/2C waves, medium to high porosity
  • Natural color: dark brown with warm bits
  • Grays: about 25%, most at the front
  • Scalp: sensitive, hates strong stuff
  • Goal: a soft black that looks real, not “marker black”

I wanted black. But I didn’t want flat, harsh black. You know what? That balance takes work.

What I tested

I ran three rounds over five months:

  1. Ancient Sunrise Henna + Indigo (two-step)
  2. Naturtint Permanent Hair Color, 1N Ebony
  3. Herbatint 1N Black

I used each one on fresh regrowth. No mixing brands on the same day. I learned that the hard way once years ago. It looked like a storm cloud.

Ancient Sunrise Henna + Indigo: rich black, big time commitment

Round one was the two-step method. First henna, then indigo (if you need a play-by-play, this comprehensive guide to using henna and indigo for hair coloring breaks the whole process down). It took an afternoon, a podcast, and a towel I didn’t mind ruining.

  • Mix: I stirred the henna with warm water and a squeeze of lemon. Let it sit for 3 to 4 hours. It smelled earthy, like damp hay.
  • Apply: I brushed it on my dry hair, roots to ends. I wrapped my head in plastic and a beanie. Left it on about 2 hours.
  • Rinse: It was…mud. So much mud. Conditioner helped slip it out.
  • Indigo step: Mixed the indigo right before use. No lemon this time, just warm water and a pinch of salt. Put it on for 45 minutes.

Result: Deep, cool black with a soft sheen. Not bluish, but clean. My grays turned black, not dark brown. My hair felt thicker, almost like I added tiny pillows to each strand. The color lasted 7 to 8 weeks before it mellowed to very dark brown.

Good things:

  • Zero sting on my scalp.
  • Lush feeling. My waves clumped better.
  • It looked very “born with it.”

Not-so-good:

  • Time. It ate a whole Saturday.
  • It stains towels, nails, and the grout line near the tub. Ask me how I know.
  • Hard to lighten later. If you love changing shades, be careful.

Who it fits: Folks with time, sensitive scalps, and a low drama routine. If you want the most “natural” route and don’t mind a bit of mess, this works.

Tiny tip: Keep the indigo warm (not hot) while it’s on. A heat cap helped me get even black roots.

Naturtint 1N Ebony: convenient and gentle (mostly)

I used Naturtint when I had a busy week and a gift card. It comes in a box with developer, colorant, gloves, and conditioner.

  • Mix and apply: Very straightforward. I used a color brush and a bowl for control. It didn’t drip much.
  • Smell: Mild. Kind of sweet, a little salon-y, not harsh.
  • Time: I left it on 35 minutes at roots, 10 minutes on lengths.

Result: Jet black on day one. It had that crisp “fresh dye” glow. My grays were covered about 95%, though a couple stubborn hairs near my hairline were a shade softer. After three washes, the black settled into a more natural soft black. On me, it lasted 4 to 5 weeks before regrowth bugged me.

Good things:

  • Easy and quick. No mud wrestling.
  • Decent gray coverage.
  • No ammonia burn for me. My eyes didn’t water.

Not-so-good:

  • My scalp had a faint tingle for 10 minutes. Not painful, just there.
  • First wash bled a little onto my white towel.
  • Slightly flatter finish than the henna/indigo. Still nice, just less “dimension.”

Who it fits: People who want a fast box dye that’s gentler than old-school formulas. If you want reliable black without a whole day gone, this is it.

Tiny tip: Rub a little balm along your hairline. Wipe as you go. It saves your skin from tint mustaches.

Herbatint 1N Black: soft black, lighter feel

This one surprised me. It’s a gel, so it spreads smooth and doesn’t run much.

  • Mix and apply: I used equal parts color and developer in a bowl. Worked in thin sections. I get better coverage that way.
  • Smell: Like herbs. Not strong. My kid said it smelled “like a tea shop.”
  • Time: 40 minutes on roots. Then 10 on lengths.

Result: A soft, natural black. Not inky. Think “black sweater” under sun, not “wet vinyl.” Gray coverage was about 85 to 90% on the first pass. I did a quick root touch-up at two weeks for the front line and that got me to 95%. It faded a bit warmer than Naturtint by week five, but still sat in the black zone.

Good things:

  • Gentle on my scalp. No tingle.
  • Very natural tone. It matched my brows well.
  • My hair felt light and soft.

Not-so-good:

  • If you want midnight black, this might feel too soft.
  • I needed a touch-up sooner at the temples.
  • Can look slightly transparent on very coarse grays unless you saturate.

Who it fits: If you want a believable, easy black that doesn’t scream “just dyed,” Herbatint is a sweet spot.

Tiny tip: Use a brush and really press color into those wiry front hairs. They’re stubborn.

Little things no one tells you

  • Black shows regrowth fast. On me, two weeks fast. It’s not the dye’s fault; it’s the contrast.
  • Cold water helps keep the tone. Not ice cold—just not hot.
  • A sulfate-free shampoo slowed fade for me. I used it every other wash.
  • Put an old pillowcase on for the first night after coloring. Even “gentle” dyes can smudge a bit.
  • Curious about indigo on its own? This in-depth resource on using indigo as a natural hair dye lays out the chemistry, benefits, and pitfalls.
  • Post-dye, my skin needed love too; this trial of truly natural body lotions pointed me to one that soothed the inevitable neck and shoulder stains.

Finally, if your arms feel like overcooked noodles after holding a tint brush overhead for an hour, sneak in a real massage. My quick workaround was scrolling the detailed listings on RubMaps Goldsboro where you can compare local spots, read uncensored client feedback, and lock down the perfect shoulder-and-scalp knead to reset your body before your next dye adventure.

My winner? Depends on the week

  • For the richest, most natural look and the best hair feel: Ancient Sunrise Henna + Indigo. It felt like a spa day, even though my bathroom looked wild.
  • For the easiest routine and strong gray coverage: Naturtint 1N Ebony. It’s my busy-month pick.
  • For the softest, believable black with kinder vibes: Herbatint 1N. It looks like me, just more polished.

If you’re nervous, do a patch test. I did one on the skin behind my ear each time. Boring, but smart. Also swatch a tiny strand under the top layer. Black can read different on warm vs. cool hair.

Quick picks by situation

  • Sensitive scalp, don’t mind time: Henna + Indigo
  • First-time home color, want no drama: Naturtint 1N
  • Want soft black, subtle grow-out: Herbatint 1N

Final thoughts (and a small confession)

I wanted jet black. Then I saw myself in sun. I changed my mind and wanted “whisper black.” That’s the trick with hair color. The light changes. Your plans change too. So pick the method that fits your life right now. Your hair will tell you what it likes.

Oh—and wear gloves you actually like. I kept one cute pair in the drawer. Funny how a small thing makes the chore feel

I Tried the Best Natural Shampoo and Conditioner — Here’s What Actually Worked

I’m Kayla. I test hair stuff for a living, and I’m picky in the shower. I want clean labels. I want soft hair. I also want my scalp to chill.

My hair? Wavy 2B/2C, medium thickness, oily roots, dry ends. I color my grays. I live in humid Austin with hard water. I swim twice a week. So yeah, my hair sees a lot.

If you want to see every before-and-after photo plus the ingredient deep dive, you can check out my detailed review on Arenaturals.

I used each pair below for 10–14 days. No other stylers, just a microfiber towel and a wide-tooth comb. I rinsed well, like 60 to 90 seconds. Little note: I have a shower filter. It helps.

Curious about plant-based color options too? I recently put a natural black hair dye through the same kind of testing.

Here’s the thing. “Natural” can still mean strong. Sulfate-free can still clean. Slip matters. So does scent. And bottle caps that don’t snap.

Quick headline: my top three

  • Best overall for waves and curls: Innersense Hydrating Cream Hairbath + Hydrating Cream Conditioner
  • Best budget and gym bag buddy: Acure Curiously Clarifying Shampoo + Conditioner (Lemongrass & Argan)
  • Best bar set for travel: Ethique Pinkalicious Shampoo Bar + The Guardian Conditioner Bar

If you're looking to explore even more natural haircare options, check out Arenaturals for a curated range of clean shampoos and conditioners.

Now the full scoop, because the little stuff matters.

Innersense Hydrating Cream Hairbath + Hydrating Cream Conditioner

This set made my hair look like it got eight hours of sleep. Not perfect. But close.

  • What I loved: The shampoo is creamy and low-foam. It needs water to wake up, so I add a splash in my hands first. My scalp feels clean, not tight. The conditioner has real slip. My comb glides. Curls form on their own. The scent is light herb and vanilla. My partner said, “You smell like a spa, not a cookie,” which I’ll take.
  • What bugged me: It can feel heavy if I use too much. Quarter-size is plenty for me. Also, the pumps are tiny. I had to pump 6–8 times, which gets old.
  • Results on day 2 hair: Still bouncy. Less frizz at my crown. I could wear it down without a hat, which is rare for me in summer.

Editors at Allure add to the hype, noting that the Innersense Hydrating Cream Hairbath cleanses without stripping natural oils and leaves strands soft and manageable.

For anyone in or around the Twin Cities who wants to pair their at-home hair routine with a professional scalp massage, take a peek at the Eagan rubmaps guide to scan real-world spa reviews, compare service menus, and schedule a head-to-toe relaxation session.

Good for: Wavy to curly hair. Dry ends. Color-treated hair.
Not great for: Very fine hair that gets flat fast.
Cost vibe: Pricey, but I used less than with drugstore stuff.

Acure Curiously Clarifying (Lemongrass & Argan) Shampoo + Conditioner

My budget win and my post-swim fix. Simple and bright.

  • What I loved: It cuts through sweat and pool days. No harsh squeak. The scent is fresh lemon, like a clean kitchen but nicer. The conditioner is light. I don’t lose volume at my roots. My kid said my hair smelled like “lemon cake,” which made me laugh.
  • What bugged me: The flip cap cracked in my gym bag twice. Also, if you have knots, the conditioner may not be enough on its own. I had to add a pea-size leave-in on rough days.
  • Results on day 2 hair: Clean roots, light ends. Needs a tiny mist of water to calm halo frizz.

Good for: Oily scalp, swimmers, teens, sweaty summer.
Not great for: Very dry or coily hair.
Cost vibe: Friendly. Often on sale.

Ethique Pinkalicious Shampoo Bar + The Guardian Conditioner Bar

Plastic-free and cute. Also, these bars last forever.

  • What I loved: Suds fast if you rub the bar in wet hands first. The shampoo rinses clean and bright. The conditioner bar looks odd, but it melts into the hair and gives decent slip. Travel is a breeze. No leaks.
  • What bugged me: Hard water made the shampoo feel a bit “waxy” the first week. I learned to rinse longer. Storing the bars matters. Keep them dry or they get mushy.
  • Results on day 2 hair: Light, fluffy, but not dry. Good ponytail day hair.

Beauty reviewers at Bondi Beauty praise the Ethique Pinkalicious Shampoo Bar for its eco-friendly design, pleasant scent, and impressive longevity.

Good for: Normal to oily hair, travel, low-waste folks.
Not great for: Very thick coils that need heavy moisture.
Cost vibe: One-time spend, then slow to use up.

Rahua Classic Shampoo + Classic Conditioner

If you like a mellow, fancy shower, this is your set.

  • What I loved: The scent is warm wood (palo santo). The foam is soft. It leaves my hair bouncy with a clean scalp. Shine is real. I used less dry shampoo all week.
  • What bugged me: The conditioner needs more slip for my ends. I had to leave it on for 3–4 minutes to get that “butter” feel. Price is… a treat.
  • Results on day 2 hair: Shiny and light. A few flyaways near my ears.

Good for: Most hair types that want bounce and shine.
Not great for: Tangle-prone hair that needs big slip fast.
Cost vibe: Luxe splurge. I save it for date nights or when I need a mood lift.

SheaMoisture Manuka Honey & Mafura Oil Shampoo + Conditioner

Thick, rich, and cozy. Like a knit sweater for your hair.

  • What I loved: Deep moisture without cones. Curls feel plush. My ends look sealed. It smells sweet, like honey and shea.
  • What bugged me: It can weigh my waves down if I’m heavy-handed. On my fine-ish strands, it’s a once-a-week treat, not a daily driver.
  • Results on day 2 hair: Defined but low volume. Great for braid days.

Good for: Coily hair, very dry ends, winter care.
Not great for: Fine hair or folks chasing lift.
Cost vibe: Fair and easy to find.

Attitude Super Leaves Volume & Shine Shampoo + Conditioner

My fine-hair pick when I want a clean label and lift.

  • What I loved: Light foam, citrus scent, no heavy film. My roots had air under them. Scalp stayed calm. No itch.
  • What bugged me: It’s not a heavy detangler. I still needed a detangling spray on pool days.
  • Results on day 2 hair: Soft, with some bounce left. Looks neat without trying hard.

Good for: Fine to normal hair, sensitive scalp.
Not great for: Very dry, coily hair.
Cost vibe: Mid, and the big bottles last.

100% Pure Yuzu & Pomelo Glossing Shampoo + Conditioner

Zesty and light. Think clean, shiny, and swishy.

  • What I loved: Citrus scent that fades fast. Hair feels smooth, not coated. Shine shows best when I air-dry.
  • What bugged me: The shampoo is thin and runs off if I’m not quick. The pump can clog. I had to rinse the pump once a week.
  • Results on day 2 hair: Shiny but flat at the crown unless I slept in a loose bun.

Good for: Normal hair that wants gloss.
Not great for: Oily scalps or heavy tangles.
Cost vibe: Mid to high.

A few sets that didn’t make my top list (but weren’t bad)

  • Briogeo Don’t Despair, Repair! Shampoo + Conditioner: Great smell, soft feel, but my waves fell flat by day two. Nice for dry hair, just not my winner.
  • HiBAR Maintain Bars: Clean feel and good values, but the conditioner bar didn’t give me enough slip for knots.

How I tested (and what actually helps)

  • I wet my hair for 60 seconds first. Shampoo likes water.
  • I emulsified shampoo with water in my hands so it spread.
  • I used a scalp brush once a week to clear build-up.
  • I rinsed conditioner until my hair felt “slippery but light.” If it felt waxy, I kept rinsing.
  • Once a week, I

I Tried Natural DHT Blockers. Here’s What Actually Helped My Hair

Quick outline:

  • My hair story and what DHT even is
  • What I tried (real products, real results)
  • What worked, what didn’t, and side notes
  • My routine now and who should be careful

My hair story (and a tiny bit about DHT)

I’m Kayla, and I care way too much about my hair part. Two years ago, I saw more scalp in photos. My ponytail felt thin. My shower drain looked like a fuzz nest. It made me nervous.

DHT (dihydrotestosterone) is a hormone that can shrink hair follicles. That’s the simple gist. I wanted to see if “natural DHT blockers” could help me slow things down. Not magic. Just help.
If you’re hunting for a quick primer on clinically reviewed, plant-based DHT blockers, the resource library at Arena Naturals is a goldmine.

You know what? Some things did help. Some didn’t. And one thing smelled like a salad bar.

What I tried (with real brands)

I tested one new thing at a time for 6 to 8 weeks each. I kept notes like a nerd. I counted shed hairs after a normal wash (not perfect, but it kept me honest).

1) Saw Palmetto — Gaia Herbs Saw Palmetto (320 mg softgel)

  • How I used it: 1 softgel a day with breakfast for 8 weeks.
  • What I felt: Weeks 1–2, mild tummy upset if I forgot food. Fix was simple—eat first.
  • Results: By week 6, my shed count on wash day dropped from around 150 hairs to about 100–110. That sounds silly, but it looked like less hair in the drain, and that felt huge.
  • Side notes: My boobs felt a bit tender one week. It passed. I also noticed my skin was a touch less oily.

A comprehensive review published in the Journal of Drug Delivery & Therapeutics points out that saw palmetto, pumpkin seed oil, and several other botanicals show measurable potential in treating androgenetic alopecia (jddtonline.info)—so my real-world drop in shed has some science behind it.

2) Pumpkin Seed Oil — NOW Foods Pumpkin Seed Oil (1000 mg softgels)

  • How I used it: 2 softgels per day for 10 weeks.
  • Results: Slower change. Around week 8, I saw baby hairs along my temples—soft and short, like new grass after rain. Shed stayed steady (about 100–120 hairs on wash day).
  • Side notes: No tummy issues. It’s easy to stick with.

A study in the International Journal of Trichology found that participants supplementing with pumpkin seed extract had roughly a 30 % reduction in hair shedding over 12 weeks, reinforcing why this oil ended up on my keeper list (naturopathymd.com).

3) Rosemary Oil Scalp Massage — Handcraft Blends Rosemary Essential Oil

  • How I used it: I mixed 3–4 drops in 1 teaspoon of jojoba or pumpkin seed oil. I massaged it into my scalp 3 nights a week. I left it on 45 minutes, then shampooed.
  • Results: My scalp felt fresh. After about 6 weeks, my part looked a tiny bit less wide, mostly near the crown. Not huge, but real.
  • Watch out: Don’t use it straight. It can sting. Ask me how I learned. Dilute, always.

For anyone in Central California who’d rather leave the head-massage magic to a professional, you can scan honest spa reviews at Rubmaps Ceres—the community ratings and detailed reports make it easy to find clean, reputable studios that actually know their way around a stress-relieving, hair-friendly scalp treatment.

4) Caffeine Shampoo — Alpecin C1

  • How I used it: 4 days a week. I left it on for 2 minutes.
  • Results: On wash days, my hair felt thicker at the roots. More grip. Not a DHT cure, but it made styling easier. I liked it for that.
  • Side notes: It dried my ends a bit. I used a richer conditioner and it was fine.

For days when I wanted something sulfate-free and more moisturizing, I also tried out the best natural shampoo and conditioner—spoiler: my frizz thanked me.

5) Green Tea Rinse — Bigelow Green Tea bags

  • How I used it: I brewed 2 bags in a mug, cooled it, and poured it on my scalp before conditioner, twice a week.
  • Results: Nice feel. Smelled clean. But I didn’t see a real change in shed or regrowth.
  • Honest take: It’s calming. It’s not a main event for hair, at least for me.

6) Nettle Root — Solaray Nettle Root (450 mg)

  • How I used it: 1 capsule a day for 6 weeks.
  • Results: Not much to report. Maybe a tiny drop in shed, but it was hard to tell. My stomach felt a little off a couple days.
  • Side notes: Nettle leaf tea made me pee more. Root did not. Fun fact I did not need.

7) Spearmint Tea — Traditional Medicinals Organic Spearmint

  • How I used it: 2 cups a day for 3 weeks. I wanted help with chin hair, too (joy).
  • Results: Chin hair slowed a bit. Scalp hair didn’t change much. I did feel a little low energy on some days—might be me.
  • Takeaway: I use it here and there, not daily.

What actually made a difference for me

If I had to stack rank the winners, it’s this:

  • Saw palmetto (Gaia Herbs): Best for cutting shed. Real change by week 6.
  • Pumpkin seed oil (NOW Foods): Slow but steady, plus new baby hairs.
  • Rosemary oil (Handcraft Blends): Good support for the scalp and the look of fuller roots.
  • Caffeine shampoo (Alpecin C1): Styling boost. Not a root cause fix, but I still use it.

The rest? Nice extras, but not game changers.

My 3-month snapshot (the numbers I wrote down)

  • Start: 140–170 hairs lost on wash day; part looked wide in top photos.
  • After 12 weeks on a stack (saw palmetto + pumpkin seed oil + rosemary oil massages + caffeine shampoo): 90–120 hairs on wash day; part looked a touch fuller, with short hairs around my temples and crown.

I know shed counts aren’t perfect science. But my mirror agreed, and my ponytail felt less sad.

Little things that helped too

  • Protein: I added a scoop of whey to my morning smoothie. Hair is made of protein. Simple logic.
  • Gentle care: I switched to a silk pillowcase and stopped ripping a brush through wet hair. Low drama, big help.
  • Wash routine: I wash 4 times a week. On two of those, I do the rosemary oil massage before.

And yes, I take a basic multivitamin. I don’t stack biotin like wild. It makes my skin break out.

What I’d tell a friend

  • Want “natural”? Try one thing at a time for 6–8 weeks. Take photos in the same light. You’ll see patterns you don’t feel day to day.
  • Be kind to your scalp. Don’t pour straight essential oil on it. Dilute.
  • If your shed is sudden or heavy, talk to a doctor. Iron, thyroid, stress—these matter.
  • Thinking of covering grays without harsh chemicals? I lived through a full test drive of natural black hair dye so you don’t have to panic like I did.

Who should be careful

  • If you’re pregnant, nursing, or trying to get pregnant—skip saw palmetto and most herbs unless your doctor says yes.
  • If you take hormone meds, talk to your doctor first. Herbs can poke at hormones.
  • If your scalp gets itchy or red, stop and reset. No hero moves.

My current routine (the one I stuck with)

  • Morning: Saw palmetto (Gaia Herbs 320 mg) with breakfast.
  • Night: Pumpkin seed oil (NOW Foods, 2 softgels).
  • Three nights a week: Rosemary oil mix (3–4 drops in a teaspoon of carrier oil), 45 minutes before a wash.
  • Wash: Alpecin C1, 2 minutes on the scalp. Rich conditioner on the ends.

Is it perfect? No. But it’s simple, and it’s working enough that I feel like myself again. Some days I still see a few extra hairs and I sigh. Then I remember week 1. And I feel better. Feeling better about my hair also nudged me to dip

I Chewed My Way Through Natural Gum: What Actually Stuck

Quick map

  • Why I switched
  • What I chewed (five brands)
  • Little wins, little gripes
  • Picks by situation
  • Final call

Here’s the thing. I chew gum a lot. School runs, grocery lines, after coffee, after garlic. I wanted gum without plastic, and with flavors that don’t taste like a lab. So I spent three months chewing natural gum. And a couple sugar-free ones too, just for balance. You know what? I learned a few weird, useful things.

Why I Switched

I kept reading that most gum is plastic. Like the stuff in tires.
Recent UCLA research shows that chewing conventional gum can release hundreds to thousands of microplastic particles into your saliva, potentially adding up to tens of thousands ingested each year (source).
I didn’t love that. Also, I wanted cleaner breath without that fake sugar buzz. Plus, my kids chew gum in the car, and I felt better handing them something simple. That’s the truth.

Small note: natural gum acts a little different. It’s chewier. It softens and then firms up. Flavors fade faster. But it feels, well, real. If you want to skip the store-hunt and have clean-chew packs delivered to your door, give Arena Naturals a peek.

While I was at it, I started looking at other “clean-up my routine” moves. Hormones were next on my list, because those midday energy crashes had me wondering if mine were out of whack. I found a clear, science-backed explainer that unpacks how testosterone shapes things like muscle repair, mood, and even sleep quality—plus practical tips on nudging your levels with food and stress management: What Does Testosterone Do? Full Breakdown. It’s a quick read that gave me a roadmap for dialing in bigger health tweaks, so if you’re upgrading more than just your gum, it’s worth a peek.

What I Chewed (Real Packs, Real Days)

Simply Gum (Mint, Cinnamon, Coffee)

I bought the little boxes with the “post-chew” papers inside. Nice touch.
FYI, Simply Gum (and its cousin Glee) swap the usual plastic base for chicle, a natural tree sap, so the whole chew is plastic-free (more on that here).

  • What I liked: bright mint; cinnamon feels warm, not harsh; no plastic feel; the chew is clean; the papers are handy at soccer practice.
  • What bugged me: flavor fades in 5–7 minutes; gets firm if you work it too long; one piece stuck to a crown when I went too hard.
  • Best moment: Coffee flavor actually helped after an airport latte. Weird, but it worked.

Use it when you want a quick reset. Not for a long chew session.

Chicza Rainforest Gum (Spearmint and Lime)

This one is wild. It’s soft, stretchy, and made from tree sap. I chewed a piece after spicy tacos. Felt right.

  • What I liked: deep, earthy chew; lime is fresh and a little sweet; wrapper says it’s compostable, and the gum melts if you toss it outside.
  • What bugged me: sticks if it gets warm; can cling to fillings; flavor drops off fast.
  • Best moment: Chewing Lime on a summer walk. Felt like a tiny vacation.

This is the “natural” feel turned up to ten. Lovely, but keep it cool.

Glee Gum (Peppermint, Bubblegum)

I grabbed these for the kids, then stole them. Bubblegum tasted like my middle school book fair, in a good way.

  • What I liked: old-school chew; bubbles!; simple flavors; less “chemical chill.”
  • What bugged me: flavor quits around minute six; the texture can squeak a bit.
  • Best moment: Passed a few pieces around after a picnic. Everyone smiled. Even my grumpy uncle.

Good for sharing. Great for that classic bubble.

PÜR and Spry (Peppermint, Spearmint)

These are sugar-free and heavy on xylitol. Not plastic-free, but helpful for long chews and for teeth after snacks. I used them on long drives.

  • What I liked: flavor lasts; strong mint blast; handy after coffee; dentist-y in a nice way.
  • What bugged me: sweetener “cooling” can feel sharp; two pieces gave me a little tummy grumble once.
  • Best moment: A two-hour road trip. One piece kept me alert and less snacky.

I treat these like my “work gum.” Useful, not cozy. If you’re curious about protecting your enamel and even nudging bone strength the natural way, this helpful story is worth a skim.

Chewsy (Peppermint, Lemon)

Plant-based and plastic-free. Found it online, then on a random end cap at a natural market.

  • What I liked: gentle chew after the first minute; lemon is bright and not fake; feels clean in the mouth.
  • What bugged me: price; a tiny crumble at the start before it smooths out; flavor lasts about 8–10 minutes, then it’s quiet.
  • Best moment: Lemon after a tuna sandwich. Crisis averted.

If you want soft flavors and a tidy ingredient list, this hits.

Little Wins, Little Gripes

What worked for me

  • Quick breath fix: Simply Gum Mint in the cup holder — and when I need a deeper clean, I revisit this honest mouthwash tale
  • Cozy chew: Chicza Lime on warm afternoons
  • Bubble fun: Glee Gum with the kids
  • Long chew: PÜR or Spry after coffee or during admin work
  • Gentle citrus: Chewsy Lemon after lunch

Heads-up stuff

  • Natural gum softens, then tightens. Don’t panic. It’s normal.
  • Hot cars ruin gum. I learned the sticky way.
  • If you have crowns or new dental work, chew slow at first — and keep this weekend toothache fix bookmarked, just in case.
  • Xylitol can upset some stomachs. One piece at a time helps.
  • Kids drop gum. Keep a napkin or those little papers handy.

Chewing can also lead to some surprise jaw tension. If you’re in North Texas and want a totally different way to loosen up after a long day of chomping, you might browse the local massage scene through this Rubmaps Coppell rundown—it gathers user reviews and service details so you can pick a stress-melting spot with zero guesswork.

Picks by Situation

  • Best “meetings and errands” mint: Simply Gum Peppermint
  • Best “nature walk” chew: Chicza Lime
  • Best for bubbles and nostalgia: Glee Gum Bubblegum
  • Best “I need flavor that lasts” choice: PÜR Peppermint or Spry Spearmint
  • Best gentle citrus: Chewsy Lemon

My Routine Now

Morning: one Simply Gum Mint, right after coffee.
Afternoon: Chewsy Lemon after lunch.
Driving: PÜR if I need something to last past the highway exit.
Weekends: Glee Gum with the kids. Bubbles, then giggles.
Warm days: Chicza Lime in the park. Feels earthy and calm.

I keep a small tin in my bag with a mix. I also toss in a few fold-up wrappers, because I’m not sticking gum under anything. Ever.

Final Call

I switched to mostly natural gum and I’m staying there. The flavors feel honest. The chew feels real. Do I still carry one sugar-free pack for long days? Yep. I’m human.

If you want clean ingredients and a short, happy chew, go natural first. If you need long flavor for long drives, keep one of the sugar-free mints nearby. That balance works for me, and my breath doesn’t scare anyone in the school pickup line. Small win, big mood.