Weleda

Celebrating the Rude Health Magazine 2024 Award Winners

Rude Health Magazine, a longstanding partner in the health and wellness industry, loved by health-conscious shoppers across the country, has announced the winners of its prestigious annual awards. The votes are in and we're excited to announce our winners of  2024 Rude Health Magazine Awards. 

Weleda - Skin Food: Winner of Best Body/Beauty Product PLATINUM award

If there’s just one thing you need to take with you to a desert island, it’s this little green hero. Skin Food is a universal saviour of dry, rough skin on faces, elbows, hands, and feet – wherever you take a lot out of your skin, let Skin Food love your skin back to its best.

First formulated in 1926, we’re not surprised that Weleda Skin Food has won the top award in this category. It’s the ultimate natural multi-tasking moisturiser for dry, rough skin everywhere, and everyone should have a tube!

Comvita - Manuka Honey Soothing Elixir: Winner of Best Immune Support GOLD award

Comvita Manuka Honey Elixir with Propolis is an all-in-one immune support formula, providing zinc which contributes to the normal function of the immune system. Peppermint oil supports healthy airways and Propolis contains high levels of bioflavonoids.

This soothing elixir is a bestseller for a reason and we are delighted that this cupboard essential has been awarded in this category.  

BioCare - Children’s Complete Multinutrient: Winner of Best Kids Product GOLD award

A comprehensive formula providing the nutritional support children need for healthy growth and cognitive development, strong bones, and immunity. Providing the full spectrum of nutrients needed for children as they grow and develop, including vitamin D, calcium, iron, and zinc, this is recommended by healthcare practitioners and trusted by parents.

Suitable from 6 months, this great tasting banana flavour formulation comes in an easy to take powder; mix into drinks or sprinkle onto foods.

We are delighted that BioCare has won this prestigious award for a great all-round children’s product.

Arnica plants belong to the Asteraceae family, which also includes sunflowers and daisies. The most commonly used species for medicinal purposes is Arnica Montana. 

This plant is native to mountainous regions of Europe and Siberia and is recognised for its bright yellow flowers. Arnica is used in homeopathic remedies and arnica flower preparations are traditionally used for the relief of bruises, sprains and localised muscle pain.

Some Arnica flower preparations can be applied topically to the skin. Oral forms of Arnica are also available as teas, tinctures, and tablets.

Theres about 150 bioactive ingredients found in arnica’s flower clusters. Among these are valuable substances such as flavonoids, carotenoids, and essential oils. 

1. Anti-Inflammatory Properties: The anti-inflammatory ingredient in arnica is called helenalin, these active compounds are believed to be responsible for anti-inflammatory effects by inhibiting processes involved in the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines.
2. Analgesic Effects: Arnica is often used topically for pain relief associated with bruises, sprains, and muscle soreness.
3. Healing & Recovery: Its anti-inflammatory properties may support the body's natural healing processes. Arnica is sometimes used topically after surgery or injury to help reduce swelling and alleviate discomfort.

Athletes and fitness enthusiasts may use arnica topically as part of their post-workout recovery routine. Arnica can be applied topically to help relieve muscle soreness after physical activities.

There are different types of arnica formulations available, including:

• Topical arnica, often available in the form of creams, gels, or ointments, is valued for its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.
• Arnica Gel: This is a common form of topical arnica. It usually contains a gel base that facilitates easy application to the skin. Ideal for use pre and post sporting activity and can also be used for the symptomatic relief of muscular aches, pains, sprains, bruises and swelling. 
• Arnica Oil: Arnica oil is a diluted form of arnica that is mixed with a carrier oil, such as olive oil or sunflower oil. This diluted mixture can be applied to the skin for massage, can be used by athletes and sports therapists, apply before or after exercise to help with muscle cramps, tension and soreness.
• Arnica Bath Soak: Some formulations containing extracts of arnica flowers are designed for use in the bath. Soaking in an arnica bath may provide relief for sore muscles, joint discomfort, and general body aches. The warmth of the bathwater can also help with relaxation.
• Arnica homeopathic tablets: These are specialised homeopathic medicinal products that are taken orally. 

Safety Considerations: Not to be used during pregnancy, lactation, or on children. Not recommended for anyone taking blood-thinning medications or supplements.  Avoid before and after surgery, get advice from your doctor.

Some people may be allergic to arnica. A patch test is recommended before widespread topical use. Arnica should not be applied to open wounds. It's advisable to consult healthcare professionals, especially if you have sensitive skin or allergies.

While it's considered safe for many, individuals should be aware of potential allergic reactions and consult healthcare providers if they have specific health concerns. As with any herbal remedy, it's essential to use arnica cautiously, always follow the directions on the label and be mindful of individual responses to ensure its safe and effective application.

Our feet play a crucial role in our daily activities and mobility and foot care is an essential part of overall self-care. 

Foot massage has a rich history that spans thousands of years. The practice of foot massage can be traced back to ancient civilisations. It is believed to have originated in China around 4,000 years ago. Foot massage was also practiced in ancient Egypt and India. In Egypt, it was depicted in ancient hieroglyphics, showing its significance in their culture. In India, it’s closely associated with Ayurveda, a holistic system of medicine.

Still today, a foot massage is a wonderful way to relax and relieve tension in your feet. It can also have benefits for your overall well-being. 

1. Create a relaxing environment by ensuring the room is comfortable, quiet and free from distractions.

2. Begin by soaking the feet in warm water with Epsom salts or a few drops of essential oil. This helps to relax the muscles and soften the skin. Dry the feet thoroughly after soaking.

3. Add moisture: if using massage oil or lotion, warm it in your hands before applying a small amount to the feet. This can enhance the smoothness of the massage strokes.

4. Start with gentle strokes: begin by using long, gentle strokes to warm up the feet. Start at the toes and move towards the heel, applying even pressure with your palms.

5. Focus on the soles: Use your thumbs or the heel of your hand to apply firmer pressure to the soles of the feet. Pay special attention to the arches, as this area tends to hold a lot of tension.

6. Massage the toes: Gently massage the toes, apply slight pressure to the joints where the toes meet the foot.

7. Work on the ball of the foot: apply gentle pressure and circular motions to the ball of the foot, just below the toes.

8. Pay attention to the heels: use your thumbs or knuckles to apply deep pressure to the heel area, working out any knots or tension.

9. Address the ankles: gently rotate the ankle in both directions.

10. Stretch the feet: gently stretch the toes and arches. Be careful not to apply too much force.

11. End with Relaxation: finish the massage with gentle strokes, gradually reducing pressure. This helps to ease the transition from massage to resting.

After the massage, drink some water and relax for a few minutes. 

Two of our favourite products for foot massage are Weleda Foot Balm and Weleda Skin Food. 

Weleda Foot Balm, packed with soothing and cooling natural extracts, this refreshing balm is the perfect treat for hot, tired or aching feet. Essential oils of lavender, rosemary, sweet orange and litsea cubeba refresh and revive in a non-greasy formulation that also strengthens skin’s resilience, helping to protect against blisters.

Weleda Skin Food is a universal saviour of dry, rough skin on faces, elbows, hands and feet. Rosemary stimulates the circulation, while sunflower and sweet almond oils deeply nourish. Beeswax and lanolin lock in softness, for long lasting, incredibly versatile and extremely good value care. First formulated in 1926, this cream is adored by all!

Massage either Weleda Foot Balm or Skin Food onto clean feet, paying particular attention to heels and soles. Especially effective after soaking in a foot bath, or straight from the bath. If you can, use generously at night and cover with thin socks to allow the cream to soak in well overnight.

For years Skin Food was an industry beauty secret, but in the past decade it has become a firm favourite with many celebrities and with everyone looking to soothe and comfort dry skin, today the range is a go-to for beauty insiders.

A tube of best-selling Skin Food Original sells every 10 seconds! What’s more, Skin Food has over 18,000 5-star reviews on Amazon and is kept as a staple in the kits of makeup artists.

The Skin Food range from Weleda intensively nourishes dry skin with the power of nature. The original formulation remains unchanged - a time-honoured combination of pure plant oils, protective waxes and therapeutic plant extracts of biodynamic calendula from Weleda’s own medicinal herb gardens. Organic ingredients such as chamomile and sunflower seed oil provide precious oil extractions.

Skin Food is a much-loved multi-tasking and multi-award-winning product to care intensively for hands, face or body.

One cream, multiple uses:

• Face and body moisturiser - nourish dry skin with this indulgent, natural formula
• Make-up primer- creates a smooth base for a gorgeous, dewy make-up look
• Hand and cuticle cream - keeps nails looking their best
• Highlighter - dab a little onto cheekbones for a natural glow
• Face mask - pamper yourself with a rich, luxurious treatment
• Eyebrow-fixer - apply using a spoolie to keep eyebrows in place
• Frizz-tamer- run a little through hair to control fly-aways

And the Skin Food collection has just got even bigger with the NEW Skin Food Face Care range, it’s already winning awards globally! This New face care range features Skin Food Cleanser, Skin Food Nourishing Day Cream and Skin Food Nourishing Night Cream. 

Weleda is the original green beauty brand and world’s No.1 producer of certified natural skincare and holistic healthcare products, organically growing plants and creating natural health and beauty products in harmony with nature and human beings since 1921. Weleda has set the standard for ethical business, and its commitment to sustainability is recognised in B Corp certification and UEBT certification for sourcing with respect.

Quality sleep is essential - like exercise and diet, getting a good night sleep is vital for good mental and physical health.

As we know a poor night’s sleep can leave us feeling fatigued, it can also cause reduced concentration, slower thinking, less focus and mood changes.

A good night’s sleep is vital for our health and wellbeing, but it’s not always easy to achieve. Most adults need between 7-9 hours sleep per night.

Here’s some tips for getting those ZZZzzzzzzzzzzz

Regular physical activity and getting some daily exposure to natural sunlight can promote better sleep but avoid being active too close to bedtime.

Our bedroom environment is important, turn your bedroom into a tranquil comfort zone……quiet, dark, and cool. Blackout curtains and earplugs can be useful to help block out light and noise. Decluttering and keeping the space clean and tidy can help you to feel calm and relaxed.

A calming scent can help ease you into sleep, here are some of the best essential oils for sleep:

• Cedarwood
• Lavender
• Neroli
• Vetiver
• Chamomile
• Sandalwood

Avoid looking at phone/tv screens at least an hour before bed, as this can stimulate our eyes and brain.

Avoid large meals or stimulants like alcohol or caffeine close to bed time as these can disrupt sleep during the night.

Put together a to-do list for the next day before bed so that you’re not thinking about these things when you go to bed.

Relax your body and mind and give yourself time to wind down before bed. You might find this is a good time to indulge in a nice warm bath, do some meditation and deep breathing techniques or read a book.

Here’s our top picks for supporting a good night’s sleep!

• Natural Health Practice Sleep Support
• Better You Magnesium Sleep Flakes 
• Tisserand Sleep Better Bath & Shower Wash 
• Tisserand Sleep Better Diffuser Oil
• Healing Herbs Rest Remedy Spray 
• Weleda Lavender Relaxing Bath Milk
• Tisserand Sleep Better Discovery Kit 
• Tisserand Sweet Dreams Pillow Mist