The Raw Journal
The Ultimate Salt Guide: Celtic, Himalayan, Icelandic and Peruvian Compared
For a long time, salt was considered a dirty word in health food circles. If we grew up only knowing iodised table salt - the kind we poured over our chips - we were taught that salt was high in sodium, bad for blood pressure, dehydrating, and even harmful to the kidneys. How times have changed! Now, natural, mineral-rich salt is an essential staple in any health seeker’s kitchen. But how much do you really know about the different types of salt we stock here at Raw Living? Here’s a breakdown of the benefits of natural salts, including how they compare to the ever-popular Himalayan pink salt. Basic Composition: Sodium & Moisture Content One of the biggest differences between salts is their sodium content and moisture retention. Celtic salt is the lowest in sodium and has the highest moisture content, making it ideal for adding to water for electrolytes since it dissolves easily. Salt Type Sodium Content (per 100g) Moisture Content Celtic Salt 🌊 ~33g High (moist, dissolves easily) Himalayan Salt ⛰️ ~36-38g Low (dry, crystalline) Icelandic Salt ❄️ ~37-39g Low (fine, flaky) Maras Salt 🌄 ~35-37g Moderate (coarse, slightly brittle) 🌊 Celtic & Himalayan Salt (80+ Trace Minerals) ✔ Celtic Salt (harvested from seawater) and Himalayan Salt (from ancient sea beds) contain over 80 trace minerals, including: • Magnesium (contributes to normal muscle function) • Potassium (electrolyte balance) • Calcium (bone health) • Iron (oxygen transport) • Zinc, Copper, Manganese, and more These salts are known for their high mineral complexity due to the large variety of trace elements retained in the evaporation or mining process. 🌋Icelandic Salt (Lower Trace Mineral Content) ✔ Icelandic salt is known for its purity rather than its mineral complexity.✔ It contains sodium and naturally occurring iodine but lacks the broad spectrum of minerals found in Celtic or Himalayan salt.✔ Because it is produced using geothermal evaporation, it retains a clean, crisp taste but doesn’t have as many trace minerals. 🌄 Maras Salt (Higher in Calcium, Fewer Trace Minerals) ✔ Maras salt has a unique mineral profile because it comes from underground saltwater springs in the Andes.✔ While it contains some trace minerals, it does not have 80+ like Celtic or Himalayan salt - instead, it is particularly high in calcium and potassium.✔ It has a mild, slightly sweet taste due to its mineral balance. 🌊 Celtic & Himalayan Salt (80+ Trace Minerals) Celtic Salt (harvested from seawater) and Himalayan Salt (from ancient sea beds) contain over 80 trace minerals, including: Magnesium (muscle relaxation) Potassium (electrolyte balance) Calcium (bone health) Iron (oxygen transport) Zinc, Copper, Manganese, and more These salts are known for their high mineral complexity, as they retain a wide variety of trace elements during evaporation or mining. 🌋 Icelandic Salt (Lower Trace Mineral Content, Ultra-Pure) ✔ Icelandic salt is one of the purest salts available, thanks to its geothermal evaporation process, which eliminates microplastics and pollutants.✔ It contains sodium and naturally occurring iodine, but lacks the broad mineral spectrum found in Celtic or Himalayan salt.✔ Because of its clean, crisp taste, it's ideal for gourmet cooking rather than mineral supplementation. 💡 Best for: High-end cooking, pure salt taste, clean seasoning. 🌄 Maras Salt (Higher in Calcium, Fewer Trace Minerals) ✔ Maras salt comes from underground saltwater springs in the Andes and is harvested in the Sacred Valley of Peru (pictured above).✔ While it contains some trace minerals, it does not have 80+ minerals like Celtic or Himalayan salt - instead, it is particularly high in calcium and potassium.✔ It has a mild, slightly sweet taste and a delicate crunch, making it perfect for gourmet cooking. 💡 Best for: Bone health (high calcium content), finishing dishes, adding a light crunch. 🖤 Kala Namak (Himalayan Black Salt, Eggy Salt) ✔ Kala Namak, also known as Himalayan Grey Salt or Eggy Salt, is a volcanic rock salt with a distinct sulfuric aroma and taste, resembling boiled eggs.✔ Sourced from the same ancient deposits as Himalayan Pink Salt, its sulfur content gives it a strong umami flavour, making it a staple in Indian, Pakistani, and South Asian cuisines.✔ It’s especially popular in vegan cooking for mimicking the taste of eggs in dishes like tofu scrambles and chickpea omelettes. 💡 Best for: Vegan egg substitutes, Indian cuisine, bold umami flavour. Which Salt Should You Choose? Best For... Recommended Salt Hydration & Electrolytes 💧 Celtic Salt (higher magnesium & potassium, retains moisture) Mineral-Rich Cooking 🍽️ Himalayan Salt (higher iron, drier texture) Salt Baths & Skincare 🛁 Himalayan Salt (used in bath soaks & skincare) Fermentation & Natural Foods 🌿 Celtic Salt, Maras Salt, or Icelandic Salt (retains moisture, excellent for fermentation) Best Taste & Flavor 👅 Icelandic Salt, Maras Salt, or Kala Namak (each offers a unique gourmet experience) Final Thoughts Each of these salts brings its own unique benefits, whether you're looking for hydration, mineral content, or the best flavour for your cooking. Choosing the right salt depends on your personal needs—do you want electrolytes, pure taste, or high calcium? ✔ If you need hydration & minerals, Celtic Salt is your best bet.✔ If you're after flavour & versatility, Icelandic & Maras Salt are top choices.✔ If you love bold, umami flavours, Kala Namak is a must-have. Whatever your preference, choosing natural, unrefined salt is a simple way to add mineral complexity to your diet while enhancing your food. ❓ Frequently Asked Questions Q: What is the difference between Celtic salt and Himalayan salt? A: Both contain over 80 trace minerals, but they come from very different sources - Celtic salt is harvested from seawater off the coast of Brittany, while Himalayan salt is mined from ancient sea beds in Pakistan. Celtic salt has a higher moisture content and lower sodium level, making it the softer, moister of the two. Himalayan salt is drier and more crystalline, making it better suited to grinders and dry seasoning. Q: Is natural salt better than table salt? A: Table salt is heavily refined, stripping out most of the naturally occurring minerals and often adding anti-caking agents and synthetic iodine. Natural unrefined salts like Celtic, Himalayan and Maras retain their full mineral profile, including trace elements not found in standard table salt. For those looking to use salt as more than just seasoning, natural salts are the more nutritionally complex choice. Q: What is Kala Namak and why does it taste like eggs? A: Kala Namak, also known as Himalayan black salt, is a volcanic rock salt with a distinctly sulphuric aroma that closely resembles the smell and taste of boiled eggs. This is due to its naturally high sulphur compound content, which develops during its formation in ancient volcanic deposits. It's particularly popular in vegan cooking as a way of adding an egg-like flavour to dishes like tofu scrambles. Q: Which salt is best for cooking? A: It depends on what you're after. Icelandic and Maras salts are both excellent finishing salts with clean, distinctive flavours suited to gourmet cooking. Celtic salt dissolves easily, making it a good choice for brines, fermentation and adding to water. Himalayan salt's dry, crystalline texture works well in grinders for everyday seasoning. Q: Is there really arsenic and lead in Celtic salt? A: Trace amounts of naturally occurring elements including lead can be found in all natural sea salts due to their environmental origins - this is not unique to Celtic salt. The levels present are extremely low and well within safe consumption limits as defined by EU food safety and organic food standards. When considered against the small quantities of salt typically consumed daily, the amounts involved are negligible. Shop Our Salts at Raw Living Explore our collection of mineral-rich salts and find the perfect one for your needs. Click here to browse our selection! Please Note: There has been some information circulating recently suggesting that Celtic Sea Salt contains arsenic, aluminium, and lead, and should be avoided. While trace amounts of these elements can be found in all natural sea salts due to their environmental origins, the levels present in Celtic Sea Salt are extremely low and well within safe consumption limits as defined by EU food safety and Organic food standards. Although there is no published data specifically for our particular salt, estimates suggest lead content may be around 553 ppb, which equates to just 0.000055%. When you consider the tiny quantities of salt typically consumed in a day, this becomes an infinitesimally small amount - far below anything that would pose a risk to health. Celtic Sea Salt’s rich mineral profile - including beneficial elements like calcium, magnesium, and potassium - makes it a valuable addition to a balanced diet, supporting hydration, electrolyte balance, and overall well-being.
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UK Veggie Award Winners 2024
We are delighted to announce that two of our Raw Living products have been awarded prizes by the judges of the UK Veggie Awards 2024, alongside household vegan brands like Dr. Bronner’s and Booja Booja! Silver Award in the Vegan Cupboard category: Activated Mixed NutsBronze Award in the Vegan Snacks category: Activated Shiitake Sunseeds These prestigious awards celebrate brands that make plant-based living more accessible, innovative, and exciting—recognizing the very best in vegan food, drink, beauty, and lifestyle products. Honouring Excellence in Veggie & Vegan ProductsWith the increasing adoption of plant-based diets, habits, and wellness choices, the Veggie Awards play a key role in highlighting standout products that help make vegetarian and vegan lifestyles easier and more enjoyable. From delicious meat-free meals and dairy-free treats to sustainable beauty products and ethical household essentials, the awards celebrated brands that truly made a difference. The Judging ProcessThe 2024 awards featured 17 diverse categories, with entries ranging from well- established brands to exciting newcomers. Showcasing the incredible variety and quality of plant-based products on the market. A panel of expert judges carefully reviewed each submission, assessing products on taste, quality, innovation, and ethical impact. After an extensive shortlisting process, some products moved forward to the final round, where the winners were ultimately selected by judges including Nikki Webster, Katy Beskow, Aine Carlin, Fiona Berry & Justine Jenkins.Why the Veggie Awards MatterWinning a Veggie Award is a true mark of excellence in the plant-based industry. These awards not only celebrated innovation but also helped consumers discover the very best vegetarian and vegan products available.We look forward to celebrating even more plant-based excellence in 2025. Explore our full range of Activated Nuts, Seeds and Trail Mixes here.
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Ormus: Between Matter and Magic
Few substances in the natural health world are as mysterious or as ancient as Ormus. Used by traditional cultures for thousands of years, it has been known by many names and revered across many traditions. This guide covers what Ormus is, where it comes from, the Raw Living range, and why it's finding its way back into conscious health practices today. ✨ Ormus: The Ancient Substance Being Rediscovered Ormus is a very special substance, used by traditional cultures throughout the ages. Although naturally occurring in high altitude areas such as the Himalayas and Peru's Sacred Valley, health enthusiasts are now rediscovering this prized substance and choosing to take it in supplemental form. We offer the Harmonic Innerprizes range, which is naturally occurring ormus deposits collected from a meteorite site in Arizona. We also offer Now Alchemy, which is alchemised in California, and the SuperTonic Herbs range add ormus to all their Chinese Tonic herbal formulas. 🏺 Ormus Through the Ages It is claimed that Cleopatra bathed in Ormus to maintain her youthful beauty. In the Old Testament Bible, it is described as Manna from heaven, and in India, Ormus or Muppu was used in many formulas, including bringing the transformational energy of Navapashanam to the common man over 7,000 years ago. 🔬 What is Ormus? In more recent times, it is David Hudson who has pioneered the research into this most magical of substances. ORMES is an acronym for Orbitally Rearranged Monatomic Elements. Now Alchemy Ormus is suspended in an extract of Dead Sea minerals, rich in Dead Sea minerals, making it a highly alkaline solution. We have been taking Etherium Gold regularly for nearly twenty years, and can testify to the inner peace and magnetised flow that it brings to our lives. If you're curious to learn more, you can check out Kate's two podcast interviews on the subject, here and here. 🌿 Ormus in Nature & Supplementation Ormus is a fascinating substance that blurs the line between mineral supplements and energy medicine. By no means an essential supplement - nonetheless, it is interesting to understand why it is missing from our modern diets, and how supplementing with it fits into a conscious approach to health. Any plants that grow in the wild and at high altitudes are naturally rich in Ormus: think foods like goji berries and maca. We also carry a range of different Ormus supplement ranges, including Now Alchemy and Harmonic Innerprizes. We have three Raw Living Ormus products on offer: Pink, Gold and DNA. All three products have a different purpose and effect, but have been sourced from the same site: the centre of a meteorite impact crater at the bottom of an ancient seabed. The heat from the impact fused the earth's minerals, producing an abundance of monatomic elements. Our Ormus Gold is sourced from the edge of the crater, and is the only monatomic gold product which has been clinically researched for efficacy. The Ormus pink is taken from the heart of the impact centre, rich in ancient trace minerals to help restore balance and flow. Ormus DNA is a specific, multifaceted, multidimensional formula; unfortunately, we can't say too much more about its specific benefits than that in this article - but if you want to try them all for yourself, you can shop the bundle here. 📜 Rehmannia Dean Thomas on Ormus Rehmannia Dean Thomas includes Ormus in all of his RDT Connoisseurs formulas, and he explains why here: "ORMUS is a mysterious substance that merits a book of its own. Currently an acronym for "orbitally rearranged monatomic elements," ORMUS is alchemically precipitated from naturally occurring minerals or their complexes that form hexagonal crystalline structures, including crystal, gold, and salt. Since ancient times, Indian Mystics, called Siddhars, named this mysterious substance Muppu, and in Egypt, Manna. In tombs from Egypt and China, Urns for smelting gold into a white powder have been revealed. The powder was apparently taken by the elite to increase longevity. It is thought that the mysterious Ark of the Covenant carried by Moses may have contained a white powder smelted from gold; early Greek literature refers to Moses as an alchemist. The same smelted mineral may have been taken by the mysterious Annunaki, who depicted astronauts in their art. Alchemists of the Middle Ages, including Pythagorus, Paracelsus, Nicholas Flamel, and Roger Bacon, searched for the famed "Philosopher's stone," and may have gained access to lost Aristotelian texts on alchemy, which were thought to refer to earlier texts by Egyptian alchemists and mystics, Zozimos, and Hermes Trismegistus. These texts were thought to have been archived at the Library of Alexandria ~ in the city of the same name ~ which was an epicenter of alchemical knowledge. In the 1970's, Canadian farmer and alchemist, David Hudson, claimed to have rediscovered the process of extracting essences trapped within crystalline structures. He gave it the name ORMUS; there is some debate among alchemists over whether this term accurately describes its real properties. ORMUS is believed to exist at the threshold between energy and matter, where molecules begin to assemble ~ based on genetic blueprints ~ into recognizable phenomena. In other words, ORMUS is the potentiator, therefore, I call ORMUS a "dedication device," dedicating atomic configurations to link together in formation of structural lattices at the foundation of physical life. That stated, alchemists believe ormic substances may act to increase the efficacy of other materials they are mixed with. This is why I include ORMUS in all of my RDT products. It is said that ORMUS will augment whatever intentions and lifestyles a person engages in. Therefore, ORMUS should only be included in a healthy lifestyle and as a component of health-supporting supplements and foods. My ORMUS is homeopathically precipitated from salts collected ten miles beneath a Bolivian desert. These salts contain tiny lattice-like chambers that have trapped the essence of an ancient lake. Precipitation from the salts is done through intensive alchemical and homeopathic processes, including mantras and prayer. The final product contains very little noticeable salinity." 🎙️ Learn More About Ormus Interested to learn more about the magical properties of Ormus? Check out our podcast episodes with Archer Love of Now Alchemy, and David Barbash of Harmonic Innerprizes. There is also a chapter on Ormus in Kate's Raw Magic recipe book. ❓ Frequently Asked Questions Q: What is Ormus and where does it come from? A: Ormus - short for Orbitally Rearranged Monatomic Elements - is a mysterious substance that exists at the threshold between mineral and energy medicine. It occurs naturally in high-altitude environments such as the Himalayas and Peru's Sacred Valley, and is found in wild-growing plants and foods from these regions. It can also be extracted from naturally occurring mineral deposits, sea salts and crystalline structures through alchemical processes. The Raw Living range includes Ormus sourced from a meteorite site in Arizona, alchemised in California, and precipitated from salts collected beneath a Bolivian desert. Q: Is Ormus the same as monoatomic gold? A: The two terms are often used interchangeably but are not quite the same thing. Monoatomic gold refers specifically to gold in a single-atom state, whereas Ormus is a broader category of orbitally rearranged monatomic elements that can include gold but also other precious metals such as platinum, iridium and rhodium. Monoatomic gold is perhaps the most well-known and widely discussed of the Ormus elements, and the one with the longest historical record - referenced in ancient Egyptian and Indian traditions as a white powder of gold. Q: How do you take Ormus? A: This varies by product. Most Ormus supplements are taken as a liquid, typically a few drops or a small measure added to water, juice or taken directly. Now Alchemy and Harmonic Innerprizes both come in liquid form. SuperTonic Herbs and RDT Connoisseurs incorporate Ormus directly into their tonic herb formulas, meaning you receive it as part of a broader blend. Q: Is Ormus found in food? A: Yes - any plant that grows wild and at high altitude is considered naturally rich in Ormus. Foods like goji berries and maca are good examples, both growing at altitude in mineral-rich soils. Sea vegetables and certain mineral-rich salts are also considered natural sources. This is one of the reasons why many traditional cultures living close to high-altitude wild food sources are thought to have had higher natural Ormus intake than most modern diets provide. Curious to experience Ormus for yourself? Browse the full Raw Living Ormus range - and if you want to go deeper, Kate's podcast interviews linked above and Raw Magic recipe book are a great place to start. [Shop Ormus at Raw Living →]
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What is Tachyon Energy? The Story of Tachyonization and Advanced Tachyon Technologies
Through the years there have been dozens of global research programs demonstrating the profound effects of Tachyonized material. In 2010 a US patent was issued providing the only patented Tachyonized Material Testing Method. This has led to the exposure of companies who have claimed to provide Tachyonized materials. Tachyonization was Invented in 1990 Through the search for Free Energy, science postulated at first — and then indirectly proved — Tachyon Energy's existence. Today, we all envision its potential. Despite all opposition, the Tachyon era has begun. In 1966, Gerald Feinberg defined Tachyon Energy as a "faster-than-light, subatomic particle" in order to unify the scientific world's view and nomenclature of faster-than-light energy. We give thanks and acknowledge the various scientists, past and present, who have provided the foundation for this new era and have thus paved the way for the Tachyon revolution. The problem is no longer in proving the existence of Tachyon Energy. Rather, it is in harnessing the energy. Many distinguished scientists have worked in this field with mixed results. What these scientists were and are trying to accomplish is the conversion of Tachyon Energy into usable electrical energy. David Wagner is globally celebrated as the father of Tachyonization and founder of Advanced Tachyon Technologies. Wagner had a different vision of the benefits of Tachyon Energy. His vision was the clear realization that the conversion of Tachyon Energy into usable electrical energy would, in fact, not solve this planet's growing crisis, because it is not a crisis of energy. It is a crisis of consciousness. Wagner recognized that everything evolves out of the Tachyon field and his breakthroughs in applied physics are directly responsible for the Tachyonization™ process. Tachyonization restructures certain natural materials at the sub-molecular level, creating permanent Tachyon antennas. Wagner's ability to harness Tachyon Energy, and the scientific world's ability to prove the outcome, are directly responsible for the Tachyon revolution that is taking place in over 93 countries. The Tachyonization breakthrough harnesses the infinite potential of Tachyon Energy in ways that benefit life on Earth and aid in elevating consciousness. "Understanding how Tachyon works is to understand one of the secrets of the Universe" Why Authenticity Matters Not all tachyon products are created equal. Since David Wagner developed the Tachyonization process, other companies have attempted to replicate it and claim their products are genuinely Tachyonized. The 2010 US patent for the Tachyonized Material Testing Method was a landmark moment — it created for the first time a proven, scientific method for verifying whether a material is genuinely Tachyonized. This means that when you buy authentic Advanced Tachyon Technologies products, you can do so with complete confidence. At Raw Living, we stock only authentic ATT products, so you never have to worry about whether what you're buying is the real thing. Shop our full ATT collection here Where to Start with Tachyon Energy If you're new to tachyon energy, it can feel overwhelming knowing where to begin. The good news is there is no wrong answer — any Tachyonized tool will connect you to the tachyon field. However most people find it helpful to start with one of these categories: Personal protection — Tachyonized pendants and personal tools are a great starting point as they stay with you throughout the day. Shop pendants Phone and computer disks — Given how much time we spend with our devices, these are one of the most popular entry points for newcomers. Shop phone disks Home and bedroom — For those who want to create a superconductive energetic space at home. Shop home products Skincare — Tachyonized skincare products are a beautiful and practical introduction to tachyon energy for everyday use. Shop skincare Water products — Tachyonized water products are among the most accessible and widely used tools in the ATT range. Shop water products The Global Community At Raw Living, we are proud to be among the leading UK stockists of authentic Advanced Tachyon Technologies products, bringing David Wagner's life's work to customers across the country. Whether you are completely new to tachyon energy or a long term member of the global tachyon community, we are here to support your journey. Browse our full tachyon collection here Tachyonized products have a passionate and loyal global community, with countless people reporting remarkable personal experiences after using them. Due to strict UK regulations, we're unable to share specific details of these reported benefits here, but we'd encourage you to explore the wealth of testimonials, case studies and research available, and make up your own mind. Frequently Asked Questions About Tachyon Energy and Tachyon Products Q: What is Tachyon Energy? A: Tachyon Energy is described as a faster-than-light, subatomic particle, a term first defined by scientist Gerald Feinberg in 1966 to unify scientific understanding of faster-than-light energy. Q: When was Tachyonization invented? A: Tachyonization was invented in 1990 by David Wagner, founder of Advanced Tachyon Technologies. Q: Who is David Wagner? A: David Wagner is globally celebrated as the father of Tachyonization. His breakthroughs in applied physics led to the development of the Tachyonization process and the founding of Advanced Tachyon Technologies. Q: What is the Tachyonization process? A: Tachyonization restructures certain natural materials at the sub-molecular level, creating permanent Tachyon antennas that harness the potential of Tachyon Energy. Q: Is there a patent for Tachyonized materials? A: Yes. In 2010 a US patent was issued providing the only patented Tachyonized Material Testing Method, which has also helped expose companies falsely claiming to provide genuine Tachyonized materials. Q: How widely are Tachyonized products used? A: Tachyonized products are currently used in over 93 countries worldwide. Q: What do people report after using Tachyonized products? A: Due to UK regulations we are unable to share specific details of reported benefits, however Tachyonized products have a passionate global community with countless people reporting remarkable personal experiences.
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Spotlight On Spirulina: The Original Superfood and Why We Still Love It
Spirulina is one of the most nutrient-dense superfoods on the planet — a blue-green microalgae packed with protein, iron, B vitamins, and essential fatty acids. Whether you're looking to boost your energy, support a plant-based diet, or simply want to know where to buy spirulina in the UK from a source you can trust, this guide covers everything you need to know. 🌀 What Is Spirulina — and Why Is It the Original Superfood?Spirulina was one of the first superfoods we were introduced to back in the 80s, long before cacao, maca, reishi, goji berries, and all the other superfoods that are now part of our daily intake had crossed our paths. You could say Spirulina is the OG superfood! There’s a good reason why it has remained popular for so many decades. With its dense nutrient profile, Spirulina is truly the food of the future. Spirulina is a type of blue-green algae (technically a cyanobacterium) that grows in both fresh and saltwater. It has been consumed by humans for centuries — the Aztecs harvested it from Lake Texcoco, and it's still one of the most researched and recommended superfoods for plant-based diets today. 💪 What Are the Nutritional Benefits of Spirulina? Spirulina is a genuine nutrient powerhouse. Here's what makes it stand out:Complete protein: Spirulina is approximately 60–70% protein by dry weight — higher than beef — and contains all essential amino acids, making it an excellent plant-based protein sourceRich in B vitamins: Including B1, B2, and B3, which are essential for energy production and brain functionMore iron than spinach: Making it a brilliant daily supplement for those on vegan or vegetarian diets who are prone to low ironOmega-6 GLA (gamma-linolenic acid): A rare fatty acid that supports inflammation control and brain healthAntioxidants: Including phycocyanin, spirulina's unique blue pigment, which has been studied for its powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant propertiesChlorophyll: Supports detoxification and gut healthIn short, if you're looking for a single supplement that covers a wide range of nutritional bases — especially on a plant-based diet — spirulina is one of the best investments you can make. 🌍 Why Spirulina is the Future of Protein Did you know that one cow provides enough protein (based on an average intake of 50g per day) for just three people annually? Even with intensive farming practices, each cow still requires 3 hectares of land (and 33 hectares if using regenerative farming!). Now, compare that to plant-based protein sources: • Soybeans: Just 0.169 hectares per person per year. • Spirulina: An incredible 0.00869 hectares per person per year! That means Spirulina can provide protein for 128 times more people than beef! Just that statistic alone should be enough for every country to consider converting a portion of farmland to Spirulina farms. Spirulina also requires minimal water (much of it is recycled in the growing process), no pesticides, and grows rapidly in warm, shallow water. As the global population grows and pressure on agricultural land increases, spirulina's role as a future protein source looks increasingly important. Where Does Spirulina Come From? China is the biggest Spirulina producer worldwide, but did you know that Spirulina from different countries has notably different tastes and textures? That’s why, in addition to our Raw Living Spirulina (from China), we also offer Auroville Spirulina from India, which has a gentler, nuttier taste, and new Bali Spirulina. In China and Vietnam, spirulina farming has been integrated into the irrigation channels of rice paddy fields, thus creating greater food security and an extra source of income. It's even possible to set up a spirulina tank at home - all you need is an aquarium tank, a heater, good lighting, an air pump and alkaline water! We look forward to the day when spirulina is a household staple, easily found wherever you travel in the world. But until that day, we have to rely on the pioneering companies growing high quality algae, like Bali Spirulina and Auroville in India. 🌴 Kate’s Visit to a Spirulina Farm in Bali Our founder Kate recently visited a spirulina farm in Bali to see first-hand how it's produced — and what she found was a beautifully simple and sustainable process.Every day, the workers use a giant sieve to remove the algae from outdoor growing ponds. The algae is then placed into a press to remove excess water — and that water is fed directly back to the plants, making the whole process remarkably low-waste.What's left in the press is a dense, vivid green spirulina 'dough', which is either: Sold fresh to local health food restaurants — a rare treat you're unlikely to find outside of BaliDried at low temperatures and pressed into Spirulina Crunchies — preserving the nutrients while creating a satisfying, snackable texture One of the most fascinating details: to check if spirulina is ready to harvest, the farmers examine it under a microscope. The algae must be long and curly — spiralled — before it's suitable. If it's short or straight, it's not ready. So when you're eating spirulina, you're quite literally eating spirals. 🌀You can see more photos and videos of Kate's Bali visit on her Instagram @katemagic. 🥗 How to Incorporate More Spirulina Into Your Diet If Spirulina isn’t already part of your daily intake, we highly recommend finding ways to add it to your diet! Here are some easy options: • Raw Living Spirulina Powder & Tablets – A convenient way to get your daily dose. • Auroville Spirulina Crunchies – Perfect for sprinkling over salads. • Greener Grass Green Powder Blend – A key ingredient for an extra nutrient boost. Sunseeds with Garlic & Spirulina - our addictive activated seed snack New in! Bali Spirulina Crunchies Kate also features spirulina in several recipes in her books — including Broccoli Bonkers dip, Mermaid Soup, and Kids Lifesavers sweet treats. Perfect if you're looking for creative ways to incorporate spirulina into everyday cooking. 🛒 Ready to Try Spirulina? Whether you're new to spirulina or a long-time fan, Raw Living has the right option for you. Browse our full range of green superfoods, or head straight to Kate's books for recipe inspiration. And if you have a favourite way to enjoy spirulina, we'd love to hear it — share your tips with us! 💚 ❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Spirulina Q: Is spirulina safe to take every day? A: Yes — for most people, spirulina is safe to take daily. A typical serving is 1–3g per day, though many people take more. As with any supplement, if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have a medical condition, it's worth checking with a health practitioner first.Q: What does spirulina taste like? A: Spirulina has a strong, earthy, slightly sea-like flavour that some people love and others find challenging. If you're new to it, start with a small amount in a smoothie or try Bali Spirulina, which has a much gentler, nuttier taste.Q: Is spirulina a good source of protein for vegans? A: Absolutely. Spirulina is approximately 60–70% protein by dry weight and contains all essential amino acids, making it one of the best plant-based complete protein sources available. It also provides iron and B vitamins that are commonly lacking in vegan diets.Q: Where can I buy spirulina in the UK? A: You can buy spirulina in the UK directly from Raw Living. We stock Raw Living Spirulina (powder and tablets), Bali Spirulina, and Auroville Spirulina from India. All of our spirulina is sourced with quality and sustainability in mind.Q: How long does spirulina take to work? A: Most people notice a difference in energy and general wellbeing within 2–4 weeks of taking spirulina consistently. Results vary depending on your current diet, lifestyle, and how much you take — but consistency is key.Q: What's the difference between spirulina powder and tablets? A: Both deliver the same nutritional benefits. Spirulina powder is more versatile — ideal for smoothies and recipes — while spirulina tablets are more convenient for those who prefer to avoid the taste entirely. The choice is mostly down to personal preference.
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Adaptogens by Adriana Ayales
This is an edited extract from the book Adaptogens by Adriana Ayales, founder of Anima Mundi Herbals. ANCIENT MEDICINE FOR MODERN TIMES Wellness is a cosmology, an all-encompassing landscape that embodies the emotional, intellectual, physical, and spiritual worlds of existence. A true state of wellness is not merely dependent on the condition or mindset a person currently inhabits. Our level of wellness is finely interwoven with the intimate relationship we have with our community, our environment, and ourselves. The multifaceted universe of health and healing is cyclical, a living organism in constant metamorphosis. Healing echoes the logic of quantum physics, suggesting that we exist in a relative, process-oriented ecosystem in which there is no “objectivity” to the world we’re experiencing. The components essential to healing disease cannot be resolved simply by measuring the illness in itself; rather, this healing ecosystem is active, with its own unique interactions and relationships. It is through this process that the healer balances the equation of physical, mental, and social well-being. In Eastern healing traditions, human beings are perceived as microcosms of the universe, suffused with the same forces controlling the cosmos. In Daoism, for example, humans are imagined as part of the unbroken whole, called Dao—a singular relational continuum expressing itself within and without. This thinking predates the separation of the mind from the body. It was the Western mind that created the idea that human beings are independent living systems, unbound by basic natural needs. We escaped from our dependency and attachment to the natural world, pursuing egotistic principles of invulnerability, invincibility, and immortality. The long-term survival of our species is threatened by an unrestrained lust for short-term gain, deceitful beliefs about accomplishment, and false assumptions about our civilization’s autonomy from nature. Modern-day human beings have contaminated their own nests, a clear sign of disease and future troubles, especially considering the consequences of our actions on the wider animal kingdom. Today, many of us seek to reclaim the sense of connectedness that existed universally in ancient cultures, when human fate was wholly entwined with nature. In the ecological understanding of these cosmologies, all things were inextricably bound together. The world was seen as a symbiotic entity in which all living organisms interacted with and supported each other, from the innermost cellular level to the outermost cosmological level. The call for plant medicine in today’s culture is a symbol of humanity returning to its source. A profound rebirth is in process, and the role of the plant kingdom is increasing in significance. An essential bridge is being rebuilt between humans and nature, allowing us to access the realm of the transcendent and the land of the luminous. Plant medicines aren’t just here to provide us nourishment, shelter, and protection from pathologies—they’re here for a much larger purpose, and that is to bring us back to the original consciousness that prevailed on earth for millenia. Herbalism is the medicine of belonging, a gateway through which we keep alive a very sacred aspect of this same consciousness. Shop Anima Mundi Herbals full range here.
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Diamond Mind
Boost your brain power naturally, with herbs and plants that have been recognised for hundreds, if not thousands of years, for their abilities to sharpen cognitive function. In our busy lives, we take in information at a speed that would be unimaginable to our ancestors. So many mental stressors to deal with, it's no wonder that so many people complain of brain fog or poor memory. Our brains are being taxed to work overtime, while atmospheric pollutants such as aluminium and barium contribute to rapid neurodegeneration. However, this situation is entirely avoidable by avoiding exposure to heavy metals, and taking regular supplementation to strengthen the neural pathways and keep the brain alert and functioning optimally. If you're concerned about heavy metal exposure, nascent iodine is a great supplement to take daily to improve chelation; that is, your body's ability to convert and excrete metals such as mercury, arsenic, lead and cadmium. Just 2-3 drops daily in a glass of water is all that is needed. It's very easy to overdose on iodine, so be careful, and stick to the minimum dose. Other powerful substances for heavy metal detoxification are shilajit and zeolites. The micro-algaes all contain a substance called PEA, which is particularly good for focus and concentration. The micro-algaes include spirulina, chlorella, Klamath Lake algae, and phytoplankton. For concentrated PEA, consider E3 Live Blue Majik, which is a spirulina extract. Also recommended for focus and concentration, is Etherium Gold. There are many Chinese herbs that are considered supportive of brain function, such as Gingko, Rhodiola and Eleuthero. We have some great formulas, including Dragon Herbs Diamond Mind, Jing Herbs Master Mind, Anima Mundi Herbals The Mind, and our own loose leaf tea blend, Clariteea. Lion's Mane mushroom extract is considered a top nootropic, that is a substance that is believed to improve mental performance. Lion's Mane helps your body produce NGF, a naturally occurring substance which encourages neurogenesis, the rebuilding of healthy brain cells. Essential Fatty Acids are so called because, yes, you guessed it, they are essential to brain health. It's very hard for vegans to get enough EFAs in their diet. The best sources are hemp, flax and chia, and we always recommend taking a supplement such as NuIQue. We hope that hasn't been too much information to tax your brain! If it has you know what you need to do! Click here to find our Diamond Mind section, containing all the afore-mentioned products, and more.
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Sal de Maras - Peruvian Maras Salt
We know we have many customers who are big salt fans! We already stock Sel De Guerande, a grey Celtic Salt from the World Heritage Site of Guerande in Western France, and Saltverk and Islensk Hollusta, geothermal sea salts from Iceland. Kate recently visited the Maras salt flats of the Sacred Valley in Peru, and we are delighted to add Maras salt to our range of high quality premium mineral salts. The Maras salt flats are some kind of miracle of nature, existing 3,200 km above sea level. They have been farmed for over 500 years, each pond being passed down from generation to generation. Traditional artisanal methods of panning salt are used. Maras salt is a beautiful salt, favoured by many gourmet chefs and restaurants. Not as dominating in flavour as Himalayan salt, not as soft and gentle as Icelandic salt, try adding a sprinkle of the magic of the Sacred Valley to your next meal! Buy Maras Salt here. See more pictures of the Maras salt flats here.
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Phoenix by SuperTonic Herbs - Supporting Women Over 50
Guest post by Rehmannia Dean Thomas. Find the full range of SuperTonic Herbs here. My mother went through menopause when I was 10 years old. Watching her struggle, I sought to find out why she experienced this difficult ordeal. That began my path as a health practitioner, and ultimately led to the creation of products -- one of which I'd like to talk about today - Phoenix. Now, I know my mother’s symptoms were intensified by severe stress. Menopause, and andropause in men, causes changes in hormone balance. For both sexes, the drive to reproduce abates, ideally freeing us to refocus from our nuclear family to the larger human community. But, while men are hardwired to respond to acute stresses, women are not… Women need to feel safe. When women are under constant stress and anxiety, the primary female hormone, progesterone, is cross-synthesized into androgens. At menopause, percentages of progesterone and estrogen reduce in relation to androgen hormones. During this life-stage, women are best suited to be our leaders. But progesterone depletion causes imbalances in estrogen, and can affect women’s energy. In a more evolved future, mid-life women will best represent our communities and run our politics, and I can state with certainty that we would have a much better, more compassionate, healthier society, with equality for all, and we would take better care of our planet.Phoenix is my formula to support women at mid-life and beyond. There are four primary concerns during and after menopause. STRESS: Consistent stress can deplete Progesterone, the primary female reproductive hormone responsible for all estrogen synthesis. This can cause hormonal imbalances, and symptoms including hot flashes. HORMONE SUPPORT: Mid-life women can rely on certain nutritives, primarily diosgenins, found in yams and many other foods, to assist regulation of the primary female hormones. BONE/TENDON/LIGAMENT: Bone density requires adequate progesterone to support osteoclasts. At menopause, progesterone synthesis is reduced, which can affect bone density. PHYSICAL AND SPIRITUAL STAMINA: Like all of us, mid-life women can benefit from herbs and nutratives that help support lasting energy and spiritual fortitude. Phoenix contains four primary herbs, used by women the world over for millennia, to help support balance during the shift and beyond. Dioscorea is a wild yam, high in Diosgenins; precursors to progesterone. Eucommia Bark is the top bone/tendon/ligament herb in Asian herbal medicines. Reishi mushroom offers emotional and spiritual fortitude. Ho sho wu, Morinda, and Rehmannia are herbs said to tonify the kidneys. And so, I am thrilled to offer this super-sophisticated formula to help support the needs of an under-represented and under-respected demographic of our society. Phoenix is safe and beneficial for all women from approx. age 40 and over.
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Current Global Cacao Market
You may have noticed the big increase in the price of cacao recently. In this podcast interview, Kate explains some of the history of cacao trading, and how the roots of African cacao in slavery are still having a negative impact today. Also how the coca market impacts the ability of producers to create a flourishing cacao trade. Listen on iTunes Listen on Spotify
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