Benefits of Homemade...Anything

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We've all heard that making things ourselves is much better for us than buying them.  But why?  I'm glad you asked.  I have complied a short list of things to consider when thinking about buying something vs. making it.  Remember, this can apply to foods, skin care products, cleaners, gifts, and so much more. 

Image by Franschhoek

Also, let's be honest, I don't think anyone has the time to make every single thing from scratch.  That is ok.  I have listed a few things that I make myself instead of buying at the bottom of this post (with links where applicable).  My hope is that you will simply start somewhere.  Begin making one thing that you used to buy and go from there.  I think that you will really enjoy the benefits!  And if you can't make it (or don't have time), consider buying a more natural version of what you normally buy.

Image by iMakeGuernsey

• When you make it yourself, you know EXACTLY what's in it.  If this isn't reason enough I don't know what is. Just read the ingredients list on things you buy (even cleaners and skin care products).  If you don't know what most of the ingredients are, you probably shouldn't be using it.  Did you know that over 3,000 ingredients are behind the word "fragrance"?  To check the hazard level of your skin care products type the name into EWG's database.
• Store bought foods, skin care products, and cleaners most often contain toxins (such as sodium nitrate, bisphenol-A, polybrominated biphenyl ethers, chemical additives, artificial anything, fragrance and more). Yes, toxins that you then consume, spread on your skin, and spray in your house.  
• Store bought items most often contain preservatives and additives to enhance color, prevent oxidation, or inhibit ripening.  These can be harmful over time, and even cause allergic reactions.
•  It's most often cheaper to make your own.  This applies to gifts, soap, food, lotion, cleaners, and more.  You will be amazed at how much money you will save making your own things.
• It's fun and rewarding to make something yourself.  You can also include your children in on the fun by making it a family project!

Homemade Pickels Image by Little Blue Hen

So, what are some things I make instead of buy?  Here is a list of just a few of the things I make that I used to buy (I've included links where applicable to help you get started):

Skincare:

• deodorant, simple deodorant
• lotion
• lip balm
• cloth safe diaper rash cream, diaper rash cream
• soap
• sunscreen
• honey face wash

Natural Remedies:

• elder berry syrup
• eucalyptus rub (homemade Vick's)
• healing salve
• bug bite salve 
• cough syrup
• infused oil

Food:

• taco seasoning
• cajun seasoning
• pumpkin puree
• milling wheat for flour
• bread
• boxed food
• soup
• spaghetti sauce
• chicken broth/chicken stock
• cream soups
• pumpkin pie spice
• ice cream
• vanilla extract
• smoothies
• yogurt
• pesto
• muffins (pumpkin)
• pepperonis
• forage for food
• whipped cream
• food coloring (purple, blue, sea green)
• honey banana brownies
• basic whole grain waffle
• soaked oats pancakes
• whole wheat biscuits
• old fashioned German dumplings

Cleaning:

• foaming hand soap
• multi-purpose citrus cleaner
• dishwasher detergent
• toilet cleaner
• fruit/veggie wash

Miscellaneous:

• seasonal things such as decorations and gardens
• Fall decorations - leaf pounding
• bug spray/lotion

Remember: If it's store bought - someone had to make it, and so can you!  Here are some resources that can help you get started: 

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