Ever since discovering that delightful shop in Pringle Bay a few weeks ago, I have been obsessed with the benefits of raw honey. I’ve even started a new system in the morning – I make myself some rooibos tea with a teaspoon of honey, a squeeze of lemon juice and sprinkle of cinnamon. Makes for the perfect winter beverage. You could even replace the rooibos tea with some warm brandy for a nightcap 🙂
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| Fact: Honey and cinnamon are some of the most powerful natural antibiotics out there. |
I had read up on deep-conditioning your hair with honey, but it sounded sticky, messy and just plain gross to me. However, a few weeks ago I decided to give it a try.
I gave myself a pre-poo using castor oil the night before wash day (yeah, it sounds ridiculous but pre-poo is a treatment you give yourself before shamPOOing your hair).
I used a satin cap on my head to protect my curls AND my linen. These bonnets are not sexy at all, but they do the trick ( I suggest easing your partner into the situation, you might shock him/her.)
Next morning I washed my hair with Tresemme Naturals Aloe Vera and Avocado Shampoo – LOVE this brand! I then mixed about a tablespoon of Tresemme Naturals Aloe Vera and Avocado Conditioner and a few drops of castor oil. I then applied it to my damp hair. After this I took a teaspoon of honey, plopped it into the palm of my hand and proceeded to rub my hands together. I don’t think I need to tell you how sticky and gooey that experience was, you pretty much get the picture. It’s not so bad once you apply the raw honey goo to your hair though.
The concoction marinated on my head for about an hour ( I had a can of insecticide handy during this time. Was so certain some ants were going to find my hair yummy) afterwhich I rinsed it off with warm water containing two drops of coconut oil . I decided to set my hair in rollers. THIS is a new thing for me. I HATED setting my hair in rollers. I used to beg my mom or bribe my sisters to do it for me. I’m no guru at it, but the rollers do what they are meant to do – they stay in.
After blow-drying my hair for about 30 minutes on medium heat, I set the dryer to cold and blasted my hair for about 30 seconds and then set my mane free. I must say that I did NOT expect the result I received. My hair was shiny, soft, bouncy and I felt like a queen bee!
I’m collecting recipes for hair treatments using raw honey. If you have one, or if you can suggest a product containing raw honey available in Cape Town, please share. I would love to give it a try.
I’ve started using honey as a mask on my face as well (with the can of insecticide on standby of course) It’s sticky, gross and it takes a lot of willpower to smother it on my face but I can definitely feel the difference it makes.
, I’m Amanda.
U know I trust your word, will give it a try for sure. Thanks Mandy. Regards Janine
Dear Mandy
Honey is the shizniz and I'm so glad you're onto it. I've been using it in my homemade deep conditioners since I first started my natural hair journey last year and it's single handedly played such a big part in the turn around of my hair. Thanks for reminding me that it's good for the skin too. I think I'll be giving it a try on my face soon.
Your hair looks amazing! Can I just say that again? Your hair looks amazing. Big up to natural hair products for the hair and skin. Definitely the way forward, xxx
Aww, thanks "honey". I didn't mention that I tried it on my daughters hair too. She has your hair type. Her hair was softer and shinier than ever before. Good luck, have fun and stay gold.
Eleanor, thanks for always making an effort to comment. You are an inspiration. Can't wait to meet you in person.
Thank you Mandy 🙂 Would love to meet you too.
Since you asked, I wanted to share my homemade deep conditioners with you. I just double-checked, they ALL contain honey 🙂
http://eleanorjadore.wordpress.com/2014/02/20/3-easy-deep-conditioners-to-make-at-home/