Lanolin: Lanolin is used in many commercial cosmetic formulas, and it is often considered harmless. However, it is obtained from wool of sheep and is therefore contaminated with pesticide DDT unless it is obtained from organic sources.

Mineral Oil: Also called liquid parrafinum, mineral oil is a byproduct of petroleum that coats skin like plastic. It disrupts skin's natural ability to purge itself of toxins, slows down cell function and can cause premature aging. Mineral oil can also be found in paraffin wax, paraffin oil and petrolatum.

Nitrosating Agents: Chemicals that cause nitrosamine contamination have been found in laboratory tests to cause cancer. Nitrosamines can be found in following chemical ingredients: 2-bromo-2-nitropropane-1,3-diol, Cocoyl Sarcosine, DEA compounds, Imidazolidinyl Urea, Formaldehyde, Hydrolysed Animal Protein, Lauryl Sarcosine, MEA compounds, Quaternium-7, 15, 31, 60, etc, Sodium Lauryl Sulfate, Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate, Sodium Laureth Sulfate, Ammonium Laureth Sulfate, Sodium Methyl Cocoyl Taurate, and TEA compounds.

Paraben preservatives (methyl, propyl, butyl, and ethyl): These chemicals are often used in cosmetic formulas to inhibit microbial formation and extend shelf life of make-up products. They are commonly used in commercial applications even though they are known to be highly toxic and to cause allergic reactions and skin rashes.

Polyethylene Glycol (PEG) compounds: This petroleum product is used in commercial cleaners to break up grease and in spray on oven cleaners. Over time, this chemical can cause premature aging when used in personal care products.

Propylene/Butylene Glycol: This chemical compound is considered so toxic by EPA that it mandates that its workers wear protective equipment when handling it. It is a petroleum product that penetrates skin easily and can cause brain, liver, and kidney malfunctions. This ingredient is often found in stick deodorants where it can cause acute and chronic health hazards.

Rancid Natural Emollients: Creams and other commercial cosmetics made from refined vegetable oils contain harmful transfatty acids. Polyunsaturated oils can also oxidize quickly, causing free-radical damage to skin and premature aging. They are also missing essential nutrients, fatty acids, and vitamins that help protect and moisturize skin.

Silicone derived emollients: Like other emollients, these products coat skin like plastic wrap, and disrupt skin's ability to breathe and release toxins. They can accumulate in liver and lymph nodes and promote development of tumors. Common silicone derived emollients include Dimethicone, Dimethicone Copolyol, and Cyclomethicone.

Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES) Ammonium Laureth Sulfate (ALES): When combined with other ingredients, these chemicals form nitrosating agents and have a carcinogenic effect on body. Be especially wary of semi-natural products that claim to be derived from coconut oil.

Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate (ALS): These chemicals can alter immune system and cause damage to eyes, digestive system, nervous system, lungs, and skin. They are commonly found in foaming personal care products. And may be listed as ingredients on semi-natural products that claim to come from coconut oil.

Stearalkonium Chloride: Originally developed as a fabric softener, this chemical is often found in hair conditioners and creams. They are toxic chemicals that can cause allergic reactions on contact.

Toluene: This chemical can be particularly dangerous if inhaled or absorbed through skin. Aspiration can cause chemical pneumonitis, a fatal disorder. It is highly flammable in both liquid and vapor form and it may affect liver, kidneys, nervous system, and blood. Overexposure can cause fatigue, confusion, headache, dizziness, or numbness. Severe overexposure can cause coma and death. Exposure to toulene can also affect proper development of a growing fetus.

For more information on natural skin care and make-up go to http://www.skin-care-support.org.

Chamomile: (Matricaria chamomilla) This herb is often associated with relaxation. It may be helpful in reducing anxiety.

Kava: (Piper methysticum) Kava is helpful for mild anxiety.

St John's Wort: (Hypericum perforatum) St John's Wort has been used for many years to help promote an overall sense of well being and reduce stress and anxiety.

Supplements: As with herbs, check with your health care provider before introducing any new supplements to your diet.

5-HTP: (5-hydroxytryptophan) This supplement is a mood lifter that may help to promote restful sleep and decrease anxiety.

Inositol: Inositol may be helpful in decreasing anxiety with long term use.

Treatment Methods:

Acupuncture: Anxiety causes tension that disrupts flow of qi. Acupuncture can help to restore harmony and induce a state of deep relaxation.

Mental Exercises: Meditation, guided imagery, art, music, and other mental exercises are a useful way to reduce stress and promote relaxation in your life.

Relaxation Techniques: Slow, diaphragmatic breathing and conscious muscle relaxation can help to manage stress by calming body and clearing mind of stressors.

Aromatherapy: Essential oils of lavender, chamomile, geranium, rose, neroli, sweet marjoram, and ylang-ylang are commonly recommended for stress relief. They help to reduce anxiety and tension and can be used in a massage, added to a bath, or inhaled through a vaporizer.

Massage: A regular massage in which practitioner uses such techniques as rubbing, kneading, and pummeling, can be very beneficial in management of anxiety attacks. It can help to increase blood circulation, reduce pain, and relieve muscle tension. Massage also help to release endorphins, substances that have a mood-enhancing effect.

For more information go to http://www.stress-anxiety-depression.org.