This is a time we are collectively called to make wise choices to protect everyone’s health and wellbeing, and fortify our family’s immune systems against contagious disease. In times like these, it is critical to understand the facts that matter most. If we think disinfectants and sanitizers that contain harmful chemicals are the way to […]
How often do you think about cleaning your home’s walls and ceilings? Perhaps never?! Yet, cleaning them can make a big difference in your home’s air quality as porous drywall attracts a good bit of dust, mold, pollens, viruses, bacteria, VOCs (especially fragrance chemicals), and other pollutants. Better air means better health and improved immunity […]
Having your kids home 24/7, and homeschooling, and working, and taking care of the house, and trying to keep up with the rest of life can be a little challenging at times! This COVID-19 situation has been tough on our children too, especially given that they thrive on predictability and routine; and not-so-much on extended […]
These days we are all very motivated to keep our homes as healthy as possible. Stores have sold out of hand sanitizer, cleaning products, and disinfectants; people are washing their clothes as soon as they get home from public places, and good old fashioned hand washing has become all the rage. And we support smart […]
Creating a healthy home starts with safe cleaning. With all of the products, buzzwords and claims out there it can be hard to know where to start, especially now when harsh chemicals seem like the only answer. We hope this article sheds light on how you can use Branch Basics to remove germs and keep […]
Pesticides are one of the most harmful toxins lurking in most homes, garages, and garden sheds. According to a recent UN report over 200,000 people die each year from pesticide exposure, while millions more are unknowingly sickened by these insidious toxins which are linked to everything from cancer and Parkinson’s to depression, developmental disorders and […]
If you’re expecting a baby (especially your first baby), you’ve probably thought a lot about their nursery. You’ve chosen a room, picked a theme, and started browsing baby stores for the perfect crib, rocker, bedding, changing table, and paint color. As you shop, you’ve probably noticed label claims like “organic,” “green-guard certified,” “BPA and phthalate-free,” […]
It’s officially cold and flu season, and it’s already hit the nation hard this year. As busy professionals (and moms) we know how tough it can be when viruses hit-home—so being prepared is a must. To help, we’ve organized our favorite science-backed, go-to natural remedies which can help you fight off colds and flu fast. […]
It’s widely known that yellow foods and ingredients are good for decreasing inflammation and turmeric is one of those magic elements. Turmeric is an Indian spice that gives curry its distinct taste and vibrant yellow color due to the curcumin compound found within. Used medicinally for centuries, turmeric is also comprised of loads of antioxidants, […]
So you have completed the removal of all pesticides, harmful cleaning, and laundry products from your home. You have dramatically improved your home’s air quality! You are off to a good start in creating your healthy home!!! Now it is time to take on another critical category–synthetic fragrance. When we see this single word fragrance […]
Nontoxic Air Fresheners It is estimated that 75% of US households use some type of air freshener. Air Fresheners are among the most toxic products found in our homes. They are a primary source of 100’s of harmful volatile organic compounds VOCs and some of these create what are called secondary reaction products if there […]
With the gift-giving season upon us, we all love to fill our homes with the lovely scents and aromas of Christmas. The inviting warm glow of candlelight sets the mood for the season’s celebration. For many of us scented candles are a favorite go-to gift, so it is important to make sure that the candles […]
Eating healthy, delicious meals shouldn’t feel overwhelming, especially around the holidays! Whether you are hosting family and friends this year or bringing a dish to share, these simple sides are sure to be crowd-pleasers. Make sure to use all organic ingredients! EASY CRANBERRY RECIPE What You’ll Need: 2 packages 10 ounce frozen cranberries or fresh […]
The ill effects of plastic on humans (cancer, birth defects, and hormonal imbalances) have largely been swept under the proverbial plastic industry rug. Sure, we all heard about the dangers of BPA a few years back, but once BPA-free products started hitting the shelves, many people were falsely comforted and forgot about avoiding plastics. And […]
Does this sound like you? After reading up on how harmful most conventional cleaning products are and learning about #TossTheToxins, you’ve decided to give them up and switch to safer options (like Branch Basics, naturally). You know what to get rid of, what to replace it with, and you’re jazzed to start creating a healthier […]
We get so many questions about which “green” mattresses are truly non-toxic and wanted to share what we (the founders + our team) use in our own homes, and why choosing a safer mattress is so important. Given that we spend at least one-third of our lives in bed, your mattress is probably the most […]
The prospect of home renovation is intimidating in and of itself, but when you are committed to using the healthiest building materials available, it takes the intimidation factor to a new level. I know because we recently completed a renovation on our new home—and even as a healthy home advocate I had my work cut […]
If you aim to eat a diet rich in nutrient-dense whole foods, then you probably take extra steps to avoid ingredients like food dyes, MSG, artificial flavors and preservatives. However, the term “natural flavor” found on a wide variety of organic, gluten-free, and all-natural packaged foods, typically doesn’t sound the alarm for most health-conscious consumers. […]
Is your first go-to when you get a headache taking Aleve, Advil, or some other pain medication? Did you know that a headache is our body’s way of telling us something is not right? A headache is not a medication deficiency. Taking a pill will only address the symptoms not the cause. Usually there is […]
For the past two decades, doctors have been telling us to lather up with sunscreen to protect our skin and prevent skin cancer. In the past five years, however, studies are showing that we may need to forgo the sunscreen so we can get enough Vitamin D. Confused about what to do? Read on to […]