Those aren’t the only reasons omega-3 fatty acids are considered critical, though. Here’s the thing: We can’t produce the omega-3s we need on our own (technically we can produce EPA and DHA from ALA, but the process is inefficient and variable5) and therefore need to get them through the food and supplements we consume. That’s where things get a little confusing. Different foods and supplements offer different types of omega-3s, so depending on whether you’re eating plant sources or seafood (marine sources), the specific omega-3s and their concentrations you’re taking in will vary....

Probiotic supplements contain healthy bacteria to support the microbiome, a collection of trillions of bacteria that live in our gut. “Think of probiotics as your little helpers that restore order and help maintain harmony in your gut ecosystem,” Vincent Pedre, M.D. told mindbodygreen. The microbiome is intricately connected with digestive health and the immune system. In fact 70 to 80 percent of the immune system lives in the gut1. Scientists believe that the immune system and the bacteria that live in the gut co-evolved2 to communicate and support one another....

One such example is propylene glycol. It used to be that the petrochemical-derived ingredient was to be avoided in the clean beauty and natural food space (it’s a common food additive as well as being a skin care ingredient). However, if you are one to read ingredient lists and only shop clean skin care retailers, you’ve likely noticed it showing up in some products recently. So here’s everything you need to know about it—including how to identify bio-based options....

Auras are always changing, but many of us will have one or two aura colors consistently show up, whether it’s blue, green, yellow, purple, white, or black. You can find out what color your aura is by having an aura reading, getting an aura portrait taken, or trying a quick aura color quiz. As aura reader and stylist Susanna Merrick tells mbg, “Red is physical energy, passion, and courage. It’s an actionable energy—you’re rooting down and being courageous, calling in actionable change....

Aromatic essences have also been used for centuries to create a more meaningful connection to something bigger than ourselves, and, indeed, may place us into a more spiritual state. Many find that spirituality is intricately associated with religion while others consider it a separate and broader concept associated with behavior, emotions, and philosophies that involve the search for transcendent meaning. Aromatic essences and incense (aromatic resins and gums, such as frankincense and balsam) have been used in spiritual pursuits for as long as we have a record of them....

It amazes me how many people settle for health problems like a low libido because they think it’s normal or a side effect of aging. Just because something is common doesn’t make it normal. My job as a functional medicine practitioner is to get to the root cause of health problems like a low sex drive. So instead of just taking another pill, why don’t we actually find out why you have the problem in the first place?...

Tea tree oil is a tried-and-true favorite among skin care pros and beauty buffs alike, boasting anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties that’ll ferociously fight against even the most stubborn breakout. Below, find everything you need to know about this magical ingredient, including its benefits as well as how to properly use it (because yes, there is a wrong way). We know what you’re thinking—this sounds strangely familiar to benzoyl peroxide. The difference?...