Terressentials Organic News

Keeping Ol' Man Winter at Bay

2012-02-04T16:33:00.002-05:00

Well folks, the rumors are true: winter is here...again. As you pull on your gloves and scarves and sweaters, your thoughts may turn to warm, sunny, faraway beaches where 'winter' is only a curious myth. However, surprising new research indicates that there is a connection between the clothing made for winter-time protection and the sparkling sands of coastal beaches. Many winter clothes, especially fleeces, are made from artificial plastic fibers — pure petroleum-based and/or petroleum-reacted fibers such as acrylic, polyester, rayon, and nylon, among others.

Now, as if wrapping your body in soft and pliable petrochemical plastics (laced with toxic dyes and endocrine-disrupting softening agents) each day isn't frightening enough, every time these clothing items made with these artificial fibers are put into the wash, the garment sheds up to 2000 of the fibers into the wash-water, according to a study published in the November 2012 issue of Environmental Science and Technology.

Scientists were shocked to find these micro-fibers make their way into the oceans and onto beaches! In a study done by a team of ecologists from University College Dublin, the scientists collected samples from 18 different beaches on different continents and found the petroleum-based fibers on every beach they tested.

These synthetic petroleum-based plastic micro-fibers are more than just an unsightly addition to beach sand, however. They also enter the food chain through filter feeders like oysters and mussels. While the long-term implications remain unclear, it is known that mollusks have been ingesting the plastic-based artificial fibers, thereby introducting plastic into the ocean food chain...and onto your dinner plate. Yikes!

What can a concerned citizen who wants to stay warm do about this issue? Manufacturers are not required to test their garments for shedding, and it remains unclear if washing machines could offer filters to catch the fibers before they enter the water system.

The safest bet, to avoid plastics accumulating on beaches and in the food chain, seems to be to seek out and purchase only natural, truly biodegradable fibers like wool, silk, cotton, linen or hemp. At our Terressentials stores we stock the finest handcrafted winter accessories made from beautiful and warm natural fibers from around the world. Another benefit of most of our natural fiber goods is that your purchase supports global fair trade co-ops — Nepal, Peru, India — where the people practice traditional knitting, weaving and spinning crafts that artisans have been perfecting for millenia. We even have incredibly soft and intricately-designed fair made woven wool scarves from Scotland, where raising sheep and weaving woolens is a centuries old liveliehood.

If wool isn't your thing, don't worry, we've got you covered, too! We have a lovely selection of warm handwoven organic cotton wraps in reversible contrasting rich colors, and scarves in fun knubby textures. Be sure to check out our wonderful shimmering silk scarves from India, Cambodia and Vietnam in a rainbow of hues and and a forest of textures that will add a pop of color and style to your wardrobe.

Natural isn't just healthier for our oceans and you, its a fashion statement that supports farmers and artisans around the world — and one that spites the gray days of Ol' Man Winter.

Oh, and be sure to drop by our Frederick store soon to catch our special Winter's Last Chance Event — we're offering 30% off on our selected woolen accessories. This is your great opportunity to brighten your wardrobe with lively, fun and luxurious hats, gloves, mittens, scarves, shrugs and handbags — while they last!

Terressentials: The Cure for Rainy Day Blues

2011-04-21T14:53:00.000-04:00

You know what they say about April... full of showers. But here at Terressentials in downtown Frederick, MD, we have just the things to brighten your dreary day and put a smile on your face! This spring we have a zoo of handmade animals for you to purchase, including bunny boxes from India, fishing animal figures from Indonesia, beautifully carved giraffe and zebra statues from Zimbabwe, and seedpod birds from Zimbabwe. It's a jungle in here, and these animals would love to leave this crazy zoo and go home with you, so drop by and pick up one (or many) soon!

Up at our farm in Middletown, MD, we've been busy sending out orders for our certified organic body care products across the country, and sometimes even around the world. A few months ago, we started noticing a rapid increase in Lavender Hair Wash purchases. For a few days, we had no idea what caused the sudden boost of orders for this particular product, but finally we discovered the reason: a YouTube video blog post! A young woman named Whitney reviewed our Lavender Hair Wash on her YouTube blog. She must have a lot of subscribers, because within days of her posting her video about our product, we were noticing the changes. As of this writing, 16,896 people have watched that particular video of hers, and we have experienced a fairly significant increase in our Hair Wash orders. In addition to selling our products online at www.terressentials.com, we sell our entire line of Terressentials body care products in our Frederick store (100 E. Patrick Street, 21701) and also in our smaller Middletown store (2650 Old National Pike). If you are interested in trying our Pure Earth Hair Wash, please check out our Hair Wash instructions before purchasing. There are some important instructions and pieces of advice for which scent of Hair Wash would be right for each hair type.

Our Kenyan handbags are great for everyday use!

These zebras were handcarved by a man in Zimbabwe, and each is one-of-a-kind!

Here is Whitney, the YouTube sensation!

http://www.terressentials.com/haircare.html

Holy Cow! Incredible holiday pricing on wool shawls!

2010-12-23T15:43:00.007-05:00

Wow! You won't believe what Debra found in our back room! Debra was organizing our back store room and discovered a box of lovely fair trade, 100% wool paisley scarves and shawls — what a surprise find, and now a holiday bonus for you! Debra thought that these would make lovely, fashionable holiday gifts and suggested that we make them available to you all at a very surprising price. For the surprise shawls, that are available in two warm colorways, we will offer them at just twenty dollars each when you mention this holiday newsletter offer, through the end of December!

We have one additional great bonus purchase offer to help with your last minute shopping challenges. We have a limited quantity of beautiful wool scarves in a festive array of colors and patterns and we'd like to offer these to you for a special price of 40% off the ticket price through the end of December. Hurry in now for the best selection as they won't last long!

One last thing...from all of us here at Terressentials, we're hoping that you will enjoy a very healthy, happy and prosperous new year!

A Unique Gift for Everyone!

2010-12-23T13:15:00.000-05:00

We have discovered a wonderful fun and useful present fit for any household and we brought them into our stores for all of our good customers. OK...just stay with us here for a minute. If you've ever seen a stinkbug, you know their backs look like little shields.Their bodies aren't their only defense mechanisms, though. If you have ever accidentally stepped on one, or when they were frightened and wanted their other stinkbug buddies to stay away from danger, many of us have found that they certainly live up to their name. These bugs are a pain when you want them out of your house, but we have a solution: the Bugzooka. This clever creation uses a completely chemical-free and non-toxic method — strong suction — to grab the stinkbug and throw him into a tube, so you can dispose of the little guy outside where he belongs. Bugzookas are good for kids who are afraid of bugs (if you give your kid a Bugzooka, she probably won't scream for help every time she sees an insect in the house), or who are interested in seeing bugs up close, but not too close. They are also good for adults who are secretly (or not-so-secretly) afraid of spiders (Bugzookas suck up those creepy-crawlies, too!), or don't really want any insect — flies, jumping things, slithering things — at all in their home. They are excellent for the grandparents who have some trouble reaching to catch bugs, too, to remove from their house, as the Bugzooka can reach to the ceiling. They are even great for the families that have pets who like to eat stinkbugs! No more stinkbug breath for our furry friends!

Holiday Countdown!

2010-12-21T13:00:00.003-05:00

Hey, folks! We all hope that you are enjoying this pleasant holiday season and that you are receiving (and spreading) lots of great and happy energy!

With just a few days to go, we have our list in hand...gifts for holiday parties, something special for a dear friend, your favorite niece, your family doctor or a teacher, and even an unusual gift for that one special person who seems to have everything. We thought that, perhaps, you might enjoy a little fair made inspiration, so we're sharing a few photos of some new artful items that recently arrived at our stores and that might be just the perfect gift solutions for those special people in your life. Please do peruse our photos of great handcrafted gift ideas that come from warm hearts and hands, and with wonderful warm wishes!

As we are so very grateful to have the pleasure of knowing you — a unique and caring, environmentally-conscious individual — we'd like to offer a special holiday gift bonus to you! From today through December 24, we are offering you twenty percent off your holiday purchase of any of our gorgeous handcrafted, tooled or scrollwork leather handbags and wallets when you mention this newsletter bonus. See some photos of these exquisite bags here below.

Please allow us to share this little helpful reminder...we do offer shipping around the world year-round, so if you ever see an item in our newsletter or in one of stores that you think would be perfect for your best friend in California, your brother in Belgium, or for yourself, no worries, we can safely pack and ship your gift for you. We can even do gift wrapping and include a note if you'd like, at no additional charge. Just call the store, email us or ask one of our helpful team-mates how we can handle this for you. We are always happy to be of service.

This is quite an elegant handmade leather shoulder bag with lovely scroll-work detailing in a richly distinctive teal and soft shimmering pewter colorway — it is roomy, well-organized and absolutely gorgeous!

Behold! Another stunning scroll-work colorway in bark brown and warm, softly shimmering bronze leather — it is the perfect complementary accessory year-round!

This bag is a great, appealing color combination of cinnamony sienna and turquoise leathers. (We also have this bag in classic, sharp black and ivory!) It is a well-crafted scroll-work shoulder bag that can be worn cross-body for the woman-on-the-go. A coordinating wristlet wallet with multiple card slots and three compartments (one zippered) is also available.

Montana, Manhattan or Madrid? Luscious rich caramel, milk chocolate and soft cream flavors of scroll-work leather are artfully combined to make this beautiful and timeless larger shoulder bag creation that goes everywhere with you — an excellent companion to share all of your adventures for many years to come.

Holiday Sweet Treats — The Very Best Artisan Gourmet Certified Organic and Fair Trade Chocolate Gifts!

2010-12-18T16:58:00.042-05:00

We have a new category of gift items fit for pretty much any person: chocolate! Just a few days ago we received a huge box brimming with fresh-made Sweet Earth Organic and Fair Trade Chocolates! We selected these chocolates with your tastes in mind. Sweet Earth Chocolates are exquisite and amazing. These fair trade, organic gourmet chocolates are great gifts for your boss or neighbor, your favorite uncle or aunt, and they make great hostess gifts too! Sweet Earth has many different chocolate products from which to choose. We have gift boxes full of assorted chocolate-covered nuts, caramels and fruits, bags full of chocolate-dipped pretzels, and rich chocolate truffles. We also have an assortment of their popular barks for you to check out. You can feel good when you buy these chocolates, as you're helping the farmers who grow the cocoa and, after all, giving is the reason for the season!

Fresh and fabulous unique artisan organic chocolates! Gifts of delectable sweetness bring smiles all around!

Might this be heaven? Such rich, sweet and healthy soul-satisfying comfort. Fresh cocoa that is certified organic and Fair Trade! Four flavors to tickle your palate — Aztec Chili, Chai, Holiday Spice or Classic — try them all!

Gourmet Organic Toffee and Chocolate-Dipped Pretzels! We have creamy chocolate barks in Peppermint Crunch, or fruit and nut combinations. For chocolate purists, we also have Sweet Earth's specialty delicacies, their deep chocolate, creamy truffles — something for everyone!

What's Black and White on the Outside and Bursting with Color on the Inside? Our New Store!

2010-11-24T11:30:00.007-05:00

With the holidays quickly approaching, we are sure you have a long list of things to do to prepare yourself, your home, and your family for the big season. In addition to the holidays, the temperatures have been dropping every day, reminding us that it's beginning to be winter coat season. Winter coats mean gloves, hats, scarves, and other accessories to keep you warm. Here at Terressentials, we have a vast array of handcrafted scarves for every occasion, as well as felted hats, silk and wool mittens, and wool ear warmers to keep every bit of you (and your family) warm during these chilly months. Our items are fair trade, so in addition to keeping your body warm, you can warm your heart too by knowing your money is going to a good cause by helping people in other countries make a good living and support their families.

We were busy this fall searching for the perfect artisan-crafted holiday gift items and accessories for you and your loved ones. We have several new jewelry lines, as well as new items from well-liked jewelry we've sold in the past. New this season are an exquisite recycled glass jewelry line from Arizona, funky mismatched (yet very complementary) ceramic earrings from Wisconsin, creative and beautiful mesh metal jewelry from Rhode Island, and delicate, elegant earrings and necklaces from Alexandria, VA. We have recently restocked our collection of shimmery beaded jewelry from Guatemala and stone and silver jewelry from Peru, and we also have more of our unique Ecuadorian jewelry made from seeds and nuts. We are the store to go to if you want to find exciting and fun jewelry!

After we looked for jewelry, we decided that you would probably really like some high-quality, fun and exciting handbags and accessories to go with your fun new jewelry. So we found a great new line of arty felted handbags from India! These bags are quirky and whimsical, and also big enough to hold essentials, but small enough to not weigh you down. We also have cute felted cosmetic bags and little change purses. Come in and check out these bags—they're really something to see! In addition to felted bags, we received a new shipment of beautifully handcrafted leather handbags and accessories from Paraguay. These bags have been a favorite among our shoppers this past year, so we've listened to your comments and ideas for new inventory and we're hoping you'll like what we've decided to bring into the store! Other handbags we have on our floor include silk handbags from Cambodia, artsy handbags made from recycled bags in India, and gorgeous vintage floral handbags made in California.

Bring a friend, bring your significant other (it's easier for them to shop for you if you say, “Wow, I love this! Doesn't this look great on me! I'd really love this for the holidays.” If you drop enough hints, they'll catch on and you'll receive wonderful fair trade gifts for the holidays, just like you wanted!). Stop into our store and see if we can make your holiday shopping easier! In addition to all of the fair trade gift items, we also have certified organic chocolates, teas, granola, and other snack items. Soon we're even going to be selling fantastic certified organic coffee! Stop in to say hi, stop in to look at our inventory, and stop in to find great things for the holidays! We're finding it difficult to even begin to describe all of our fabulous gift items, so you'll just have to drop by and see for yourself all of our wonderful fair trade and organic items!

We are now located at 100 E. Patrick Street at Maxwell Avenue, in front of the library. Currently, our general holiday hours are:

Sunday 11am-5pm

Monday 10am-5pm

Tuesday 10am-5pm

Wednesday 10am-5pm

Thursday 10am-6pm

Friday 10am-9pm

Saturday 10am-9pm

See you soon!

Just look at how much our new storefront sparkles!

Our windows are all "jazzed" up for the holidays!

Now that we've doubled our store size, we've been able to increase our inventory of snacks and gift items, found here in the back portion of our store!

This Just In!

2010-05-07T16:00:00.008-04:00

This just in—cotton scarves to add style to every occasion! These block-printed scarves are hand-crafted in India and are truly one-of-a- kind. The scarves are made of 100% high quality cotton. For each scarf, the designer uses between 1 and 30 handmade print blocks, each of which takes two days to carve. Additionally, each three-meter block of cloth is stamped about 1000 times. With hand-stitched edging on each scarf and colorful, elegant designs, who can resist such a lovely, unique scarf?

Stop by soon to further accentuate your summer wardrobe with South American jewelry made from nuts and seeds! This jewelry is made from natural seeds that have been sustainably harvested from rainforests and lowlands in South America. Many of the nuts and seeds used in this jewelry are sun-dried for months, and then these organic materials are individually cut and hand-dyed, and finally assembled into necklaces, bracelets, and earrings. Wear these accessories to your next social gathering and you'll receive endless compliments about these unusual finds!

We have new handbags for the summer months! Our sisal bags from Kenya come in many different colors and sizes. They are hand made by women of Kenya who take care of their homes and family, and find time to make these bags that take between two to three weeks to complete.

Our other collection of bags is made with grasses in Cambodia. These bags come in various styles, shapes, and patterns, and add pizazz to any outfit. The Cambodian bags are made by workers who receive $2-3 more than others who work in their country. These bags are helping to improve the lives of the people who make them.

Looking forward to seeing you in our Frederick store soon!

She couldn't stop dreaming about
the upcoming lazy summer days on the island.

He couldn't wait to see the way her eyes would light up
when she saw the fancy jewelry he bought her.

She was mystified about how well her new bag fit
with every piece of clothing in her wardrobe.

Sun hat? Check. Clutch? Check. Silk scarf? Check.

This girl's ready for a night on the town!

She couldn't wait to bring all of her best friends

to see the amazing collection of bags in her new favorite store.

He looked around and saw colorful purses in all shapes and sizes

He instantly knew where he'd be going for her next birthday gift...

Celebrate Your Green Spirit!

2010-03-03T00:28:00.001-05:00

Green. Grass. Spring. The luck o' the Irish. After all of the white that we've seen this past month, we're holding our breath in anticipation of seeing green. But you don't have to wait any longer to see the green, come to our Terressentials Patrick Street store this Saturday, March 6, and join us -- Maryland's deepest green and organic and fair made business -- in celebrating your green spirit!

Once again, our fine research has uncovered some unique delights and we'd love to share them with you during this First Saturday evening event in Frederick City. We'll be introducing a special adult treat -- 479 Popcorn from San Francisco! Jean Arnold, chef extraordinaire, trained at London's Cordon Bleu, but can't shake her lifelong passion -- the search for the perfect popcorn. One day she makes a crucial discovery -- the perfect corn popping temperature is...can you guess? 479 degrees! From that point, Jean expanded her obsession to finding the most sensual epicurean complements for her perfectly popped organic corn. The result? Sublime combinations of salt and sweet and spice and savory -- tantalizing sensations suitable for mature palates only, please! Ginger Sesame Caramel, Chipotle Caramel + Almonds, or Black Truffle + Aged White Cheddar? How do these mouth-watering flavors sound to you? Don't waste a minute guessing! Join us on Saturday evening and we'll share a few of our decadent kernels with you.

Oh, and yes, we've also discovered a new and exciting artisan chocolate -- 100% Organic Skinny Bars. Skinny Bars are unbelievably yummy and a great skinny size -- skinny to the tune of about 200 calories per bar! Now, here's the best part -- Skinny Bars don't give you the skinny when it comes to flavor. Holy, mole!* These are incredibly delicious and rich organic Belgian chocolates infused with fresh, new tongue-teasing blends of spices, fruit, peppermint, crunchy cocoa nibs and roasted coffee beans. You really do want to try all of the Skinny offerings and, at around 200 calories per bar, you won't be breaking the calorie bank. So, this Saturday, peruse the new Skinny Chocolate collection at Terressentials:

Belgian 41% Milk Chocolate infused with Cinnamon and Nutmeg

Belgian 41% Milk Chocolate infused with Cocoa Nibs

Belgian 66% Dark Chocolate infused with Ginger Root

Belgian 66% Dark Chocolate infused with Peppermint Leaves

Belgian 66% Dark Chocolate infused with Raspberry

Belgian 78% Dark Chocolate infused with Ethiopian Yirgacheffe Coffee

In keeping with the spirit of Frederick's First Saturday Going Green festivities, our company founders, Diana and Jim, will be on hand Saturday evening to talk the deep green talk with you, to share organic tips and answer your organic and green questions. So, shake off those winter blahs and pop on down to Frederick City and help us roll out the green carpet for spring! Truly, what could be better than seeing fun, new green things?

* Mole -- Mexico's famous national dish -- a complex, rich and earthy chocolate and chili sauce -- is the perfect meal solution for these chill end-of-winter evenings and send seductive sparks into your cerebral cortex. Viva chocolate, viva serotonin boost! By the way, you can pick up a round or two of Taza's authentic certified organic, Mexican-style stone ground chocolate for your mole (or fantastic hot chocolate!) at our shop when you come by.

Finally, to provide some inspiration, here are some intriguing mole recipes for you to play with. Enjoy!

http://www.norecipes.com/2009/02/28/conejo-en-mole-rojo-rabbit-in-red-mole/
http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/article/169/19190
http://recipes.epicurean.com/recipe/17671/mole-sauce.html

2009-12-20T01:05:00.000-05:00

Enjoying Pleasant Journeys and Gathering Happy
Memories As We Walk Down The Road Of Life

There's something exciting and magical about the holidays...and we're not talking about Santa Claus here. Ah, but yes, we're referring to the sparkle of crystal bowls and ornaments, slender champagne flutes brimming with golden bubbly, the shimmer of soft silk blouses and bags, the scents of fresh evergreen boughs, mulling spices and sultry flaming logs crackling in the fireplace with the sounds of familiar happy holiday music following us like our shadow on a sunny day. It's these things that become our future memories and the special finishing touches are what bring the smiles to our faces and tears of joy to our eyes when we unpack the personal treasure boxes of our lives that are filled with our mementos that we carried with us on the many steps in our many journeys in the adventure of our lives.

We are most particular when we create our USDA certified organic body care products because we know that they must care for you every day in a most personal way and that they must not be a burden to you, other wild living creatures or our waterways. We are also very particular in searching the world every year to find lovely future memories for you. We find the most promising artisans with beautiful fair trade and fair made goods, and worthy social and environmental missions so that we can share their story, their art, their inspiration with you. If you haven't already done so, and you live in our area, do find a moment to admire Tina's lovely, creative holiday-theme window displays in our storefront at our Frederick City Patrick Street store. The window displays are festive and are accented with lustrous hand-crafted Guatemalan crystal-beaded balls for holiday or year-round ornamentation, artful DeVeer glass earrings, lively and unusual silk coin pouches, wallets and cosmetic cases, distinctive and elegant silk evening bags from Cambodia, and cheerful and fun Llama leather handbags from Bolivia to carry your precious necessities to your next holiday gathering.

Good health, wonderful friends, plentiful food, purposeful goods, and inspiring stories -- these are the foundation for a rich and full life. Grant yourself permission to enjoy little organic and fair trade indulgences and to create the positive memories for your future. Our Terressentials team would like to thank you for your environmental concern and your loyal patronage of our organic business, and we all wish you a happy, healthy and prosperous holiday season and new year!

2009-12-19T17:10:00.000-05:00

Holiday Home Accessories:
100% Pure Beeswax Candles

Accessorize your home with 100% pure beeswax candles! These candles are the perfect eco-conscious accessory to add to your home during holidays and throughout the year, and always make a delightful and useful hostess or housewarming gift. The beeswax for the candles is produced in organically-managed hives and the candles are free from toxic petrochemical additives, hydrocarbon pollutants and paraffin so you can feel good about adding some mellow zen glow to your home with these hand-poured beeswax candles, and take comfort in the process behind the product. You might be pleasantly surprised to learn that beeswax is the only wax that, when burned, produces negative ions which help to remove pollution particulates from the air and gently increases the ratio of negative ions to positive ions. Increasing the negative ions causes the positive ions to drop their loads of unhealthy pollen, dust and dander, creating the ideal situation for cleaner air. Using beeswax candles may actually help to keep your house clean and your lungs clear!

Terressentials stores carry a number of shapes and sizes of the beeswax candles, so you can choose which style is best for your home. The wicks are made from pure cotton, are lead and zinc free, and are pre-waxed for convenience. The recyclable packaging for these special candles is made from 100% recycled paper, so you need not worry about harming the planet. Add a little inviting warmth to your home today and enhance everyone's mood with the soft natural light from 100% pure beeswax candles!

Photo credit:

http://www.flickr.com/photos/blmurch/ / CC BY 2.0

2009-12-19T16:41:00.000-05:00

Terressentials Holiday Accessory: Fused Glass Earrings

Accessories are crucial in a fabulous wardrobe; you need the right colors to match, fashionable jewelry to compliment your mood, and of course a few stellar statement pieces. Terressentials has, yet again, found some of the most beautifully diverse handcrafted jewelry. One of our latest arrivals, DeVeer Designs Fused Glass Earrings, are a modern staple with delightful shapes, styles, and colors. The glass for these stunning earrings has been kiln-fired, an ancient form of glass artistry that has recently been rediscovered by craftsmen and craftswomen. Each pair of earrings is completely unique and specially crafted to enhance a slew of personal styles. Each pair is inspired by the Chinese art of Feng Shui, so you can bring that inspiration to your lovely earlobes with an array of designs. Some of the earrings are simple enough to be worn with an elegant dress to a holiday party, accenting that little black dress oh-so-perfectly. Other pairs are colorful and upbeat, perfect for a gallery opening or first Saturday dinner. Some of the earrings are even casual enough to wear with a nice pair of jeans. There are plenty of options to reflect your personality, mood, and wardrobe. All of the earrings hang beautifully on silver wires, and the wire is sometimes incorporated into the accessory's delicate arrangement. You will not only make a fashion statement with these individualized shapes and styles: you will be displaying a modern work of art. These intricate pieces of jewelry are the perfect demonstration of classic American craftsmanship. Hurry over to Terressentials today to find your unique set of earrings before someone else takes your statement!

Product of the Week: Flower Therapy Organic Silken Velvet Body Lotion!

2009-10-02T14:42:00.000-04:00

Skin is the largest organ of the human body, and it needs a lot of tender loving care to stay healthy. As colder weather approaches, along with it comes dry, itchy skin. Fear winter no more! Our Flower Therapy Organic Silken Velvet Body Lotion is the perfect blend of nourishing emollients designed to help protect your gentle skin from the harsh elements. The uplifting scent of its essential oils and flower extracts will keep you enthusiastic throughout the day as your skin revels in its silken velvet moisturizing properties. The combination of soothing aromatic organic botanicals makes our blend more than just a body lotion; it is an aromatherapy delight.

Our Flower Therapy Organic Silken Velvet Body Lotion blend contains certified organic cocoa butter, certified organic essential oil of lavender, certified organic extract of honeysuckle, and cold-pressed certified organic sunflower oil. Organic sunflower oil is commonly used in skin and hair care because of its extensive antioxidant nature and its superb moisturizing potential due to its high-oleic fatty acid profile and its perfect compatibility with human skin. Simply apply a dab of Flower Therapy Silken Velvet Body Lotion where needed and envelope your skin in softness and sensuality. This body lotion can also be applied to the hair for extra conditioning or styling. So, treat your skin to a delicious delight, and give our Flower Therapy Organic Silken Velvet Body Lotion a try today!

2009

NEW ITEMS: Guatemalan Handbags and Wallets

2009-10-02T14:16:00.000-04:00

Welcome to autumn!

The air is slowly cooling, bringing a swift breeze through downtown Frederick. Leaves are beginning to transform into a fiery frenzy of orange, red, and dark brown. Festive decorations and seasonal flowers are beginning to pop up all over the city, promising hearty holidays to come. Our new Guatemalan handbags and wallets are the perfect reflection of autumn's beauty. Each purse is handcrafted from the recycled blouse of a Mayan woman; these blouses, or huipiles (wa-peels), are embroidered with intricate patterns that tell family history, mythology, and traditions. Each bag is refined to a very specific and individual pattern from one person's garment, so you can be assured that your bag is unique. The artisans of these new items are part of Pueblo a Pueblo: an organization that supports an indigenous Mayan community affected by natural disasters. Pueblo a Pueblo helps to provide this group of people economic opportunity and a chance to educate their children.

With a variety of sizes, shapes, and patterns, you can choose which bag or wallet best reflects your personality. Terressentials is offering every style from laptop bags to evening purses with a variety of traditional Mayan patterns, including the "Joyabaj" and "Patzun" styles. The color scheme of the purses is breathtaking; they have been carefully handcrafted, and their beautiful coloring and individual charisma emulate the fantastic colors and feelings of the season. You can also choose a unique, individualized wallet to match your fabulous new autumn bag! So get in season with your purse, bag, or wallet of choice, and spice up your wardrobe with these extraordinary accessories.

2009

2009-09-19T18:18:00.000-04:00

Life can be stressful.

Between work, family, school, and your personal life, it is easy to get worn out and lose focus. Every now and then you just need to take a few minutes to yourself to breath, reflect, and regain your stamina. Peppermint essential oil may be just what you need for that boost! Peppermint, Mentha piperita, is reported to be useful in helping to ease or sooth a variety of minor ailments, including, but not limited to, headaches, motion sickness, depression, lack of focus, nausea, respiratory infections, and heartburn. There are several ways to use essential oils safely, and if you are suffering from any medical conditions or pregnant, you should always consult your doctor before using peppermint essential oil. To boost your energy level, place the peppermint essential oil bottle under your nose and waft the crisp scent towards your nostrils. You can also apply two drops to a tissue or washcloth to dilute the strength of the oil. To ease that nasty headache, soothe your temples and forehead with a few drops of the uplifting and stimulating oil blended in a carrier oil along with a few drops of lavender essential oil.

When applying to the skin, always dilute the peppermint oil, or any other essential oil, with a carrier oil, such as cocoa butter, jojoba, olive, rose hip, or shea butter oils. To understand the power of peppermint, you need to move beyond candy canes! Terressentials stores offer two varieties of certified organic peppermint essential oil, as well as air fresheners so you can enhance your home, car, or work with peppermint essential oil. We also offer an assortment of fresh and minty certified organic products in our Terressentials body care line, so you can wash, moisturize, or massage with a hint of lively peppermint essential oil.

Photo Credit: Michael Thompson/ARS

2009-09-18T14:10:00.000-04:00

Recent news about chemicals in anti-perspirants and deodorants can make us pause.

Mainstream body care companies seduce you with claims such as anti-perspirant, 24 hour protection, and powder fresh scents. What you are really getting is aluminum chlorohydrate, or methyl, ethyl or propyl parabens, and countless other chemical ingredients that are difficult
to pronounce. Why do we want those chemical under our amrs and so close to our breasts?

Be nice to your body and those around you by trying our organic deodorants! Terressentials offers an alternative to the big, scary body care industry's offerings. You will find ingredients in our deodorants that you can pronounce: organic aloe vera juice, essential oils of organic true lavender, organic bergamont, and more delicious USDA certified organic ingredients you can count on. All of the deodorants are liquid roll-ons, and they certainly help to guard against strong odoriferous emissions throughout the day. The Fragrance-Free is a good choice for when you want to smell neutral, but you also want to fight potential odors. The Lavender Fresh, on the other hand, is perfect for when you want protection against odors and desire a light, crisp and beautiful, fragrant aroma. Other Terressentials Deodorant flavors include Zen Spice and Zesty Citrus, making it easy to match the deodorant with your Terressentials aroma of choice.

So, take a deep breath. You don't have to give into the lurking chemicals or the worry of a overly-strong personal odor -- you do have options. Try out one of our trusty deodorants today!

Treats of the Week: Nirvana Chocolates!

2009-09-09T11:58:00.000-04:00

Mouthwatering. Sensational. Luscious. Scrumptious. USDA Certified Organic. Ah, Chocolate. Who can deny its alluring powers? Terressentials stores in Frederick and Middletown offer a medley of delectable chocolates for your sweet tooth. Other chocolatiers have started replacing cocoa butter with cheaper ingredients such as vegetable oil, but now you can enjoy your favorite treat while taking comfort in the labels and enjoying the true taste of cocoa butter. Our first treat review will be Nirvana Chocolates, a Massachusetts-based company uses the finest Belgian chocolate formula to create their delicious flavors, and then kindly shares their decandent creations with us all. Terressentials offers five of their fabulous flavors. Nirvana utilizes a single-source of certified organic African cocoa beans in the creation of their Belgian-styled delights. Their chocolate bars are 72% Dark Chocolate, and each ingredient is USDA Certified Organic! My personal favorite is the dark chocolate with sea salt and caramel, which is unlike anything I have ever tasted. The sweet, soothing caramel is cradled in pure chocolate bliss. The sea salt adds a nice contrasting edge, and the combination of the salty and sweet is absolutely irresistible.

Other Nirvana flavors that Terressentials offers include:

Dark Chocolate with Pomegranate Dark Chocolate with Blueberries and Acai Fruit
Dark Chocolate with Goji Berry, Mulberry, and Goldenberry
Dark Chocolate with Spicy Chili Pepper, Vanilla, Cinnamon, Nutmeg, and Almonds -- popular!

Come pick up your chocolate delight at Terressentials today!

All chocolate bars are vegan/vegetarian friendly.

Product of the Week: Passionate Lavender Anointing Body Oil!

2009-08-29T17:22:00.000-04:00

Are you looking for a way to unwind after a stressful day? Is the tension in your neck draining you?

Why not try a little massage with our 100% Organic Passionate Lavender Anointing Body Oil? If the scent alone is not enough to convince you, the potential benefits of lavender essential oil might intrigue you. It is reported that Lavender may help ease headaches or anxiousness, and may help soothe irritated skin. It is recommended that essential oils not be used undiluted on the skin and, instead, used only when mixed in a carrier oil such as organic coconut or organic sunflower oils. Terressentials has made this easy for you with our specially formulated Anointing Body Oils. The oil base contains 25% certified organic cocoa butter, which leaves the skin feeling especially soft and touchable. The cocoa butter makes the Luscious Lavender Anointing Oil a fantastic moisturizer for super dry skin without leaving your skin excessively slippery. At room temperature, and in the winter months, the cocoa butter becomes solid beads, but they are easily warmed and liquefied by holding your capped bottle under hot running tap water for just a minute or two, or by setting your capped bottle on a table beneath a lamp with an incandescent bulb while you're in the shower. The rich, warm goodness of the Anointing Body Oil will soothe your skin and the light, luxurious aroma blend of the lavender and other mellow essential oils will refresh your weary mind.

Gently massage warm Luscious Lavender Body Oil onto neck, shoulders, feet, legs, face, or scalp area to condition the skin or scalp and to release some of that tension and help you to relax. Ah-h!

Terressentials Sponsors at Green Meetup's Rooftop Toast

2009-08-18T15:30:00.000-04:00

On Wednesday, August 5th, Terressentials displayed a lovely assortment of products at the Green Meetup Launch Party on the roof of the Bistro Laurent Tourondel building in Washington, D.C.. Green Meetup is a group that supports the concept of truly “green” companies and individuals. The launch party was designed to allow members and friends to mingle, enjoy a free organic happy hour, and discover a variety of green companies. Approximately 500 people attended the event, allowing the companies to receive a healthy dose of metropolitan exposure. Terressentials naturally attracted a great deal of interest, since it is one of the few USDA certified organic body care companies in the country. Guests stopped by the Terressentials table to chat, sample organic lotions, and question the importance of organic standards in the body care industry. Hopefully, these individuals will become even more conscience in the future about the “green” decisions they make regarding their organic body care choices. Later in the evening, the band “Mother Nature's Recipe” performed as Miss D.C. 2009, Jen Corey, mingled with guests. The air cooled as the sun began to set, making the stellar rooftop view even more spectacular. The event proved to be a fun way to engage and inform people about green companies and ideas. For more information, please refer to the Green Meetup website: http://www.greenmeetup.com/

-d.mcfall 2009

A Bang For Your Buck: Moisture Cream

2009-07-28T16:41:00.000-04:00

Okay, so you want to keep your beauty products organic, you have a limited budget, you need a good moisturizer, and you also don't want your hair flying into a frenzy as you walk down the street. Sound Familiar? There is a solution, and that is our 100% Organic Moisture Cream. Not only is our Moisture Cream the solution to dry skin, it is also the solution to dry, frizzy, unmanageable hair. You're probably thinking, "hah, yeah right, how's that gonna help MY crazy hair?" Here's the truth: no one's hair is crazier than mine. It's a thick, balled mess of frizz and ringlets. Every time I try to style my hair, the effort usually ends with me in a state of absolute frustration. After reading the detox steps for the Pure Earth Hair Wash, I noticed that the Moisture Cream was a suggested conditioner, and I NEED conditioner. SO, guess what? It turns out the Moisture Cream is an amazing conditioner, and my hair now feels pleasantly thick as opposed to bird-nest-thick. Problem number two: I needed something to keep my locks in control when I leave the house, especially now that it's summer, and summer tends to help my hair grow outward, and I completely lose whatever sleek look I had styled. So I thought, hm-mmm...why not dab a little Moisture Cream into my styled hair? Suddenly, my bangs were staying in place! That little cowlick stayed in the barn! Okay, I admit it, I started to go crazy, smoothing out split ends and twisting ringlets into place all over. The best part was that my mane stayed in place all day. Can you believe that I got more curious? A little dab on my eyebrows and they were on point the entire day as well. Make our Moisture Cream your all-in-one miracle MOISTURIZER!

-d.mcfall 2009

Notes On Mud Hair Wash From A Previously Skeptical, Chemical-head Girl

2009-07-20T17:33:00.000-04:00

Even after years of torturing my poor hair with just about every dye you can get over the counter, can you believe that I wondered why my hair felt so fried and frizzy? To put it sweet and simple, I was addicted to hair dyes and detergent shampoos. Reds, blacks, blonds, neons; you name the shade, I had it. Coconut, peach, berry; you name the scent, I tried it. Poor hair; it always looked so dry and dull. When I was first introduced to the concept of washing my hair with mud, I kind of cringed. I mean, come on, MUD? But then, after thinking it over, mud would be infinitely better than any of the chemicals I was poisoning my hair with, so I decided to embark on my first shower with the Lavender Garden Hair Wash.

I read through the detox article and started out with the pre-wash --the Lavender Garden Body Wash -- which was delightful and refreshing. After trying the pre-wash and the vinegar rinse for two days, I knew it was finally time to test out the mud. On the big day, I squeezed the bottle, and stared blankly at the brown pile sitting in the palm of my hand. "Well, here goes". I plopped the pile into my wet hair, and the intoxicating smell of fresh lavender took over. Suddenly, I imagined I was walking through a field of lavender, inhaling the fresh scents and letting my mind unwind. There were no bubbles, just the smooth creaminess of the cool hair wash and the feeling of becoming one with lavender. Then my eyes opened in more ways than one. I followed my wash with a quick scalp and hair massage with a tablespoon of vinegar, which helped keep my frizz under control.

Over the next few weeks, my hair became softer, and felt stronger. Fewer hairs are showing up in my brush, and my hair feels full and indestructible. Not to mention, my luscious mane smells absolutely stunning. Now, I shudder when I think of all of those years of seeing shampoo commercials where the people are in ecstasy after using a certain brand! I realized that everything I once knew about hair care was a lie. I had been trained my whole life to embrace fake scents as normal, and now I do not even understand how people can stand those smells.

I walked through the Lavender Garden, and I am never going back.

-d.mcfall 2009

First Saturday!

2009-07-16T10:10:00.000-04:00

Be sure to join us for August's First Saturday!

First Saturday Brochure

Accessories That Make A Difference

2009-06-30T17:40:00.000-04:00

In a consumer world so driven by cheap, plastic goods, it can be difficult to find genuine craftsmanship worthy of true appreciation. Enter Terressentials, with a haven of truly beautiful accessories and home decorations that support the outstanding talents from far corners of the world. Everything from intricate jewelry using Austrian crystals and unique bead-weaving techniques to handmade wrapping paper made from grasses and leaves hailing from Thailand and India can be found in the Terressentials stores. The latest scarves were backstrap hand-woven in Guatemala. The scarves are 100% cotton, and come in a variety of styles and colors. The open weave, generally a multicolored arrangement of perfection, are light weight and well-suited for a summer evening stroll (and will match that adorable sundress!). The “Trama” style, achieves a more checkered appearance with deep earth tone colors embracing the shimmery cotton thread. This style, while also well-suited for a summer evening, can be doubled to create the ideal autumn scarf. Last, but not least, are the “San Juan” style scarves. This style is a sensory delight with its bright colors and soft, but durable, feel. And you can bet that your hard-earned money is going to the right place: these scarves are fair-trade, meaning each craftswoman receives the wages she deserves for her exquisite abilities.

No sweatshops, no uncertainty of origin. 100% real.

OUR NEW DOWNTOWN STORE

2009-05-19T16:57:00.000-04:00

Terressentials recently opened a new retail outlet in downtown Frederick, Maryland. The Frederick store is located at 116 East Patrick Street between the Library and Post Office. At present our Frederick store is open Thursday, Friday and Saturday from 10:00 to 6:00, and on Sundays from 12:00 to 6:00.

Naturally, we offer our complete line of artisan-crafted USDA certified organic Terressentials products and we also feature the finest array of Fair Trade and Fair Made beautifully handwoven raffia sun hats, and unique handwoven and hand-dyed silk and cotton scarves and creative high-style artisan handbags. Fair Trade is a business and social philosophy which insures that artisans are paid a fair price for the work performed, working conditions are comfortable and healthy, and people are treated well. The Terressentials team always tries to go a step or two further and places a premium on those exceptional goods that are sustainable, recycled and organic, and that support minority and/or disadvantaged or women-owned businesses, businesses that provide work and training for disabled individuals, and enterprises that build community through providing education and/or medical care. Additional Fair Trade colorful artwork offerings include home decor, boxes, decorative ornaments, jewelry, note cards, and hand crafted papers.

On a sweet organic note, for the adventurous chocolate aficionados we have traveled the country to find the newest and most deluxe certified organic gourmet chocolates...more on these later! We also offer a yummy assortment of different organic snacks and teas.

We have a number of new products and plans for our Frederick store (and our Middletown store) so, for a little taste of something fresh, do visit the shop soon! Stay tuned to our blog for exciting upcoming products and events.

HANDMADE PAPERS FROM NEPAL

2009-05-19T16:54:00.000-04:00

These beautiful papers are hand made from "Lokta.” Lokta is interesting as it grows in abundance at altitudes over 6500 feet in the Himalayas. The papers we sell are handcrafted from the bark of the lokta plant. The village co-operatives and local farmers in Nepal collect the lokta bark from the community forest. To make paper the bark is cleaned, trimmed, and beaten with a wooden hammer. The fibers are then placed into a metal drum. Water and ash are added to to the fibers which are then boiled into a pulp. This pulp is poured into wooden frames and dried in the sun light. This drying process gives the paper a natural cream coloration. The paper is then ready to be colored, many colors from vegetable dyes, and then are hand-blocked or screen printed to create the beautiful designs offered in our stores. The papers are handmade by village co-operatives and small cottage industry in Nepal that employ mostly women and also promote women co-operatives. The raw lokta and natural papers are purchased from co-operatives who are engaged in cultivation and reforestation of the lokta plant in the forest. By removing only the bark from the plant, new growth is promoted which is beneficial to the plant. Like other plants, lokta naturally re-grows after peeling off its bark within 4 years. The controlled harvest and reforestation of lokta makes this paper a wonderful and eco-friendly, truly sustainable natural product.

These beautiful works of art can be used for collage projects, art matting, drawer liners, lamp shades, scrap booking, wrapping paper, cards, table runners, and many other craft projects. Be creative and be inspired!

INGREDIENT OF THE MONTH: Patchouli oil

2009-05-19T16:44:00.001-04:00

Patchouli oil is an essential oil that has been used throughout history for its healing and aromatic and aphrodisiac properties.

In the 1960-70's, patchouli oil and patchouli incense became wildly popular among the baby boom generation. Patchouli oil had long been used for centuries by various cultures for stimulating the growth of new skin cells as well as a wide variety of other therapeutic applications. As a key aroma element in our 100% Organic Seductive Spice Anointing Body Oil, the patchouli radiates as a luscious earthy aromatic with a light lingering scent and makes the Spice body oil one of our more popular massage and moisturizing products.

Patchouli grows as a bush with stiff and satiny leaves and purplish white flowers. The plant, which can grow up to three and a half feet tall, emits its intoxicating aroma from its large fragrant leaves. It is cultivated in Paraguay, Malaysia, Indonesia, the Philippines, India, and China. The patchouli oil is distilled from the leaves of the plant and the highest quality patchouli oil -- USDA certified organic -- is one of a few essential oils that, like a fine wine, can age well and, when aged, develops an even more intriguing warm and woodsy complex aroma with just a hint of a spice note.