We would like to thank Feelgood Style for writing a review of our Lemongrass Clarifying Cleansing Bar. She brings up a point of concern echoed by other consumers in the past - that our products tend to be on the pricey side. We think this is a great opportunity to begin a dialogue with all of you about our products, why they are priced the way they are, and field any additional comments on the topic.

First, we would like to address the misconception that our cleansing bars are soaps. As many of our customers will testify, they go beyond just cleaning the skin of bacteria and are actually facial cleansers containing active ingredients that offer cosmetic benefits – clarifying, balancing and hydrating the skin in a way that a basic soap cannot. Bar soap contains bulk flakes and fillers that often strip the skin of its natural oils and can cause breakouts and premature aging. Our cleansing bars are specially formulated to be used on the face and cleanse skin without damaging it.

Our cleansing bars (and all of our products) contain only premium quality biodynamic and organic ingredients that are extremely precious, and as such, expensive and often difficult to source. The pomegranate seed oil in our products was selected following a test of over 14 different varieties of pomegranate seed oil, which revealed that ours is purest and the most potent. It happens to come from the Mediterranean. (We cannot even begin to tell you how horrified we were to discover what we found in some of the varieties from other parts of the world, including the US!) In addition, our bars are made and cut by hand in an artisanal fashion using fair trade labor, which is time consuming and once again, costly.

Finally, our cleansing bars last for a LONG time – many of our customers say that they have them around for 2 to 3 months!

Take a glance at other natural brands’ facial cleansers, and you will find that price points hover in the $15-$25 range, and sometimes far above. Our bars really are the equivalent of a liquid facial cleanser and given the quality of the ingredients, efficacy, and knowledge that what you are using was obtained in a manner that is both sustainable and respectful to the planet and its inhabitants – we believe it’s a pretty good deal.

That being said, we truly wish that we could lower the price of all of our products and make them available to any and everyone. However, our operations at this time are still small scale, and we need to be able to stay in business! We are consistently looking for ways to lower our prices and hope to do so in the future. In the meantime, we appreciate your ongoing support and look forward to continuing to provide you with the highest quality biodynamic products out there!

The days are getting shorter as we descend to the darkest night of the year. Winter has arrived and along with the rosy cheeks and cold clear days comes uncomfortable dryness of the skin. Tzeira has shared a few tips on how to care for your precious skin during these colder months:

1. Drink herbal tea to keep the body’s temperature balanced. Herbs to look for are red clover and bear claw for their cleansing properties.

2. Eat hearty warm foods like root vegetables and steamed greens that are seasonal in the winter months. This helps put your body back in sync with the seasons and your body’s needs – reflected through your skin’s healthy glow. They are also loaded with immune-boosting minerals, iron, and beta-carotene.

3. Avoid drinking coffee. You’ll think you’re drinking plenty, but your body will be severely dehydrated.

4. Give your immune system an extra boost by cooking with Omega 9-rich olive oil and eating fresh fish (an Omega-3).

5. Complement your salad with a citrus olive oil dressing – incorporating antioxidant-rich ingredients like acai, pomegranate, and blueberry.

6. Avoid dairy (which can lead to mucus, congestion, and a general blockage of the system) and opt to drink almond milk instead. Almond ice cream is another delicious alternative to dairy!

7. Eat foods rich in Vitamin D (or take a supplement) to make up for lack of sunlight in the winter months.  It’s good for your skin’s appearance and combating depression.  Foods high in Vitamin D: Salmon, Halibut, Mushrooms, Cooked Egg.

8. Add Himalayan Salt or Fleur de Sel into your food to regulate fluids. Low fluid regulation shows through your skin.

9. Moisturize from the inside out – drink plenty of water to keep your largest organ (your skin) hydrated and radiant.

10. Apply a moisturizing skin cream throughout the day to seal in moisture and protect the skin. We recommend our Skin Revitalizing Treatment ampoules and our signature Healing Cream.

Wishing you a Happy Holiday from all of us at Pomega5. We hope you are resting more, eating nourishing food, and staying warm and dry! Don’t forget to become a fan of us on facebook or follow us on Twitter as we get prepare for our re-launch in January 2010!!

Beyond the purity of our ingredients, at Pomega5, Sustainability is a way of life that extends to all areas of our mission and organization.

Ingredient Sourcing

• We’ve received highest marks from Environmental Working Group’s Skin Deep Database
• We are currently applying for NaTrue - Europe’s most comprehensive grading system for cosmetic products
• Fair trade and sustainable sources: For example, our Omega 5 oil is from pomegranates grown in the same Mediterranean region for hundreds of years

Manufacturing & Packaging

• We develop and manufacture our products in a Certified Green Lab
• Our new (and upcoming!) packaging is in eco-friendly, recyclable glass jars with no wasteful outer packaging
• We are developing marketing materials using only recycled paper stocks and non-VOC inks
• Our products are shipped using biodegradable packing peanuts

Education & Community

• We support for other green and socially-driven organizations, including Friends of the Earth
• We’ve created products for the Teens Turning Green line - educating teens about greener alternatives to conventional beauty and health products.
• We are currently developing a complementary curriculum on healthy lifestyle and nutrition - Stay Tuned!

FINCA (Foundation for International Community Assistance)

Providing financial services to the world’s lowest-income entrepreneurs so they can create jobs, build assets, and improve their standard of living.

FINCA facebook

FINCA on twitter

Farm Sanctuary

Committed to combating the abuses of factory farming and encouraging awareness and understanding about farm animals. They rescue animals from farms, stockyards, and slaughterhouses and educate millions of people about the intolerable conditions that are commonplace on today’s industrialized farms.

Farm Sanctuary on facebook

Farm Sanctuary on twitter

Heifer International

Works with communities to end hunger and poverty and to care for the earth. Their strategy is to “pass on the gift.” As people share their animals’ offspring with others - along with their knowledge, resources, and skills - an expanding network of hope, dignity, and self-reliance is created that reached around the globe.

Heifer on facebook

Heifer on twitter

Teens for Safe Cosmetics

A national movement of youth transforming the world by investigating and eliminating toxic exposures in daily lives, schools and communities, advocating for change in policy and habits to protect our health, and educating peers and the community about greener alternatives.

Teens for Safe Cosmetics on facebook

Teens for Safe Cosmetics on twitter

NAVS (National Anti-Vivisection Society)

Promotes greater compassion, respect and justice for animals through educational programs based on respected ethical and scientific theory and supported by extensive documentation of the cruelty and waste of vivisection.

NAVS on facebook

NAVS on twitter

Environmental Defense Fund

Dedicated to linking science, economics and law to create innovative, equitable and cost-effective solutions to society’s most urgent environmental problems.

EDF on facebook

EDF on twitter

Alley Cat Rescue

Dedicated to the health, well-being and welfare of all cats: domestic, stray, abandoned, and feral. Works to protect cats on several levels: locally through rescue, rehabilitation, and adoption and nationally through a network of Cat Action Teams.

We’re kicking off our Ingredient Spotlight Series with what is by far the most important ingredient in our products: Pomegranate Seed Oil!

While you may have been made aware of the beneficial properties of the juice and pulp of this magnificent fruit, it is the oil from within the seed that contains a powerful antioxidant that is even more potent than the juice or extract.

A little bit of history…

The pomegranate (punica granatum) is native to Persia (modern day Iran), where it has its roots in ancient medical practices. The oil is extracted by cold pressing the seeds of pomegranates in a method similar to extracting olive oil from olives, and because only a very limited amount of oil is available within each seed, pomegranate seed oil is not a cheap commodity.

Ever since Pomega5 founder Tzeira Sofer discovered the ability of pomegranate seed oil to heal her own skin conditions, she has worked closely with scientists and beauty experts to incorporate the precious ingredient into her skin care. Today, there are a number of doctors in the US who prescribe Pomega5 products to patients as alternative therapies for various issues. One such doctor is John Mathias, a world-class neuro-gastroenterologist who operates a clinic in Houston, TX. By giving Pomega5 oil and products to women with severe gastrointestinal disorders and moderate-to-severe endometriosis, he has witnessed with positive results over the years.

Why is pomegranate seed oil so critical for skin?

Pomegranate seed oil is the only known plant-based source of Omega 5 essential fatty acid. While fish oil (an Omega 3) has been widely touted over the last few years – and is even commonly prescribed now as the essential fatty acid that protects the body from a myriad of diseases like cardiovascular disease and diabetes – it should really only be taken orally due to the fact that it is a large molecule that is not readily absorbed by the skin. Omega 5, on the other hand, is highly compatible with the dermis due to its small molecular size, meaning it is absorbed almost instantaneously and even becomes a delivery system for nutrients to cells.

Pomegranate seed oil is also a potent source of punicic and ellagic acids. In vitro, it demonstrates anticancer activity against prostate cancer cells. The oil also contains phytoestrogens, which are similar to the estrogen that is naturally produced by the human body. Traditionally used to treat both internal and external ailments, including hypertension, gastric inflammation, menopausal symptoms, and skin diseases, pomegranate seed oil is currently being investigated in clinical trials around the world to determine the extent of its healing potential, particularly in cases of various forms of cancer.

The oil also supports and maintains immune, reproductive, circulatory, digestive, metabolic, and skin health. It has the ability to soothe, protect, and moisturize dry, cracked, and irritated skin, as well as to improve skin elasticity and promote cellular rejuvenation.  So, when we say our product contains highly efficacious and potent ingredients that have the ability to transform your skin, we know it to be true!

Please feel free to visit our testimonials page on our website, where you can read and hear people talk about the positive effects of the pomegranate seed oil in our products on their skin.

At Pomega5, we feel it is important to educate yourself about what is going into the skincare products you use daily. Many products contain petroleum-based synthetic fragrances and perfumes which, while appealing to the nose, are alcohol-based and can contain ingredients like phthalates and volatile organic compounds.

The Pomega5 family of products never uses any synthetic fragrances or perfumes, and instead relies on the ancient practice of infusing botanical essential oils into products to provide an aromatic experience. While they are known for their pleasing fragrance, these essential oils are not drawn upon solely for their scent. Essential oils carry powerful properties that can invigorate and alter moods to promote a positive experience and sense of well-being The aromatherapeutic power of these essentials oils plays a fundamental role in the experience of using Pomega5 products – ask any of our customers! Some women compare Pomega5 to their daily caffeine boost, claiming that they cannot start the morning without washing with the Cleansing Bar and applying their favorite Pomega5 moisturizer.

Our products contain a pomegranate citrus cocktail of essential oils that contribute to Pomega5’s unique signature scent system. We regularly use:

Lemongrass Essential Oil – Known for its calming and tranquilizing qualities; can also be used to combat depression and is a great astringent

(You can find lemongrass in our Cleansing Bar)

Mandarin Orange Essential Oil - Helps with irritability; restores balance and uplifts mood.

(You can find mandarin orange in our Hydrating Essential Cleansing Oil - coming soon!)

Grapefruit Essential Oil – Refreshing and energizing, combats depression, headaches, stress, and exhaustion

(You can find grapefruit in our Revitalizing Nourishing Toner) 

Lemon Essential Oil – Calming, helps ease anxiety and depression

(You can find lemon in our Daily Revitalizing Ampoules)

Verbena Essential Oil – Relieves anxiety and exhaustion, boosts concentration, helps with insomnia

(You can find verbena in our Green Tea Moisturizer)

Rosewood Essential Oil – Rejuvenates and preserves youthfulness of skin, calms and harmonizes mood

(You can find rosewood in our Healing Cream)

For more information, check these out:

Essential Oil Directory

Environmental Working Group – Skin Deep

Pomega5 uses only the finest ingredients in our products, derived from biodynamic plants and botanicals from France and the Mediterranean. Do you ever wonder what boidynamic means? Well, you’re not the only one - it can be pretty confusing. Here’s our take on it:

Biodynamic Agriculture and its History

In contrast to conventional practices, the biodynamic method of farming views the farm as a living organism and emphasizes the interrelationship of the soil, animals, and plants in a closed, self-nourishing system – providing nutritionally dense and medicinal crop.

Interest in biodynamic farming began 1924, when a group of European farmers began noticing rapid decline in seed fertility, crop, and animal health. With the help of Dr. Rudolf Steiner (20^th century philosopher, architect, and social thinker) the biodynamic agricultural philosophy was born.

Sickness Equals Imbalance

Biodynamic goes beyond organic farming in that it does not allow any sort of pesticides, herbicides, or fungicides to be sprayed on the farm. But it also sees sickness as a sign of imbalance - a loss of connection with the system that provides life and health. The more the farm is treated with chemicals, the more it becomes an environment for side effects or new diseases. Nature creates viruses whose duty it is to destroy plants that are lacking life forces and recycle them back into the system.

Healthy Soil is Vital

Traditional farming depletes soil of the vital nutrients that support healthy plant-life. The biodynamic method focuses on the maintenance of soil life to protect it from erosion and preserve it for generations. The application of organic manure and compost, proper crop rotations, cover crop, and crop diversification all aid in feeding the soil with the proper nutrients and bacteria to promote balance.

There are specific biodynamic compost preparations made of medicinal herbs that have undergone long processes of fermentation in order to enrich them in growth-stimulating substances, reacting like yeast in dough within the soil.

Biodynamic farming also follows a planting calendar that takes astronomical influences into consideration (including moon phases and seasonality) that is most appropriate for planting, cultivating, and harvest various types of crops.

To find out more information about biodynamic agriculture, check these out!

Biodynamic Farming and Gardening Association

The Josephine Porter Institute for Applied Biodynamics

Benziger Winery

Ceago Vinegarden

Marian Farms

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Written by our intern Becca:

Two weeks from today, I will be in Black Rock City, a dried lake bed in the middle of the Nevada Desert that is inhabited by 40,000 people for one week every year. I will be spending 5 days in the harshest conditions I have ever experienced (i.e. 60mph winds, 110 degrees by day, and 40 degrees by night) in the name of radical self-reliance, community, and artistic expression. This is my first time attending Burning Man and, to be honest, I’m terrified.

I’m terrified - not of running out of water, not of a sandstorm blowing my tent away; I’m not even scared of watching a 70 foot effigy of a human male burn to the ground before me.

No.  I’m terrified for my SKIN!

Knowing that I will be facing a blazing sun and arid climate, I consulted Tzeira about how to best protect my fragile skin from the desert elements. Here is how I am preparing:

1. Drink plenty of water as constant hydration is essential to healthy skin (and the entire body).
2. Carefully watch what I am eating. I don’t plan on eating anything too heavy and will keep my diet fairly simple. Tzeira suggested I eat clean carbohydrates, nuts, and veggies (if they don’t go bad in the heat) and avoid sweet or fried foods, which easily dehydrate the skin.
3. Wash my face using the cleansing bar to keep disinfecting the skin from the  harsh elements (especially dust and smoke , which are very toxic for the skin).
4. Keep applying toner to rehydrate the skin. Toner isn’t just water - it’s an infusion of botanicals, minerals, and natural ingredients that contain fatty acids and essential oils that will help with deep cleansing and sterilization of the pores.
5. Applying the protection of the Revitalizing Ampoule, complete with the essential fatty acids that protect the skin from any bacterial penetration. Bacteria avoids the pomegranate seed as it is very potent. I already use the ampoule every evening before bed, but I’m considering using it twice a day in the desert.
6. Finally, the healing cream will be a lifesaver for sunburns and damaged skin (in combination with the ampoules).

Wish me luck. I plan on returning from the desert thoroughly exhausted, enlightened, and with healthy and glowing skin!

- Becca

P.S. Have you heard about our Pre Re-Launch Online Promo? 15% off all Pomega5 products! Check out the details on our facebook page ]]> http://pomega5.com/blog/2009/08/prepping-my-skin-for-the-desert/feed/ http://pomega5.com/blog/2009/08/recipe-of-the-week-collard-wrapped-salmon-with-peach-preserves/ http://pomega5.com/blog/2009/08/recipe-of-the-week-collard-wrapped-salmon-with-peach-preserves/#comments Fri, 14 Aug 2009 21:48:28 +0000 msofer http://pomega5.com/blog/?p=94 Tzeira just shared this delicious recipe for late August evening with friends. Enjoy!

2. Pour a little bit of Olive Oil on bottom of shallow pan and place some leaves on top.
3. Take Olive Oil in a cup, add the jam and mix with mustard, chopped (not crushed) garlic, garlic granules, salt, pepper, chili, and herbs until mixture has reached the consistency of a coulis. Pour over fish, massaging it gently, and lay upon the leaves.

4. Take the sundried tomatoes, put in warm water for several seconds and immediately take out, dry, and arrange on fish.

7. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
8. Combine wine and vegetable stock and pour around wrapped fish. Cover dish with aluminum foil (in tent shape) or dish cover to enable the fish to steam.

9. Depending on the power of your oven, cook for 25 minutes for a medium-well fish. Well done usually takes around 35 minutes. Be sure to use a fork to make sure fish is done, but avoid letting the steam escape. Check halfway through cooking time and, if it looks like the fish is dry, add more of the vegetable stock/white wine mixture.

Benefits for you:

Convenience- Having your own herb, vegetable, or fruit garden gives you the convenience that no market can provide. Just step out to your yard and ta-da everything you crave right at your fingertips.

Vitamins- Fruits and Veggies are sometimes not picked at their best. Most produce that is available at the grocery store is designed to travel well and look pretty, not for nutrition. If you grow your own, you will likely be eating the produce at the peak of its maturity, it will have better flavor and more nutritional value.

Saves Money-Growing your own garden, saves you big bucks. If you’re like us, we try to buy only 100% organic and that can get pricey, it’s worth it but can become costly. Having your own garden can reduce your food bill by half.

Quality Control-Since it’s your garden it’s your rules. We choose to grow only organic veggies, fruits, and herbs without any harmful pesticides.

Physical and Mental Health-Adding fresh herbs instead of more sodium are very beneficial to your body, as is eating more fruit and vegetables. But gardening itself is also beneficial to your health because it can relieve stress and get you more active. Just being out in the fresh air can clear your mind and help you focus better.

Remedies-Having your own herb garden gives you access to many homeopathic remedies. Herbal medicines not only cost less but have fewer side effects; these types of herbs can include Chamomile, Echinacea, Fennel, and Aloe Vera plus many more.

Great gifts- Use them in a recipe basket. Type the recipe on a pretty piece of stationary or handwrite it, then add all the ingredients necessary including homegrown herbs. Given to someone who enjoys cooking this can be a very thoughtful gift.

Benefits for the Environment:

Reduction of household chemicals- If you grow your own lavender you can put it in the towel or linen closet and it will keep your towels and linens smelling wonderful. Also dill naturally freshens the air, while eucalyptus can be used to drive away insects.

Less pollution and use of resources- By growing some of your own food you will be reducing the amount of fossil fuel that has been used to transport your food to zero. Plus you won’t be using any gas to get to produce market and there is the market with all its lights and a/c.

Less Packaging-When you pick it from your yard you aren’t buying it in boxes or plastic containers, or using Styrofoam.

Good for the Earth- having a garden is eco-friendly and good for the Earth because the plants in the garden use up the carbon dioxide and then release oxygen which helps us breathe. And because it is grown organically it reduces the amount of synthetic chemicals seeping into ground water.

Hope this has been helpful, happy gardening!