tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7997629315469514462024-03-13T12:38:59.463-06:00International Toothpaste MuseumA virtual museum, curated by Paul Merrill.paulmerrillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03555284589007691780noreply@blogger.comBlogger82125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-799762931546951446.post-59156381197251844532023-05-14T12:17:00.000-06:002023-05-14T12:17:21.290-06:00Cattier-Paris Clay Toothpaste<p>If you've ever had the pleasure of dining at a high-end gourmet restaurant, you've experienced <a href="https://www.masterclass.com/articles/guide-to-classic-palate-cleansers" target="_blank">a palate cleanser</a>. Traditionally, those are sorbet.</p><p>Cattier-Paris has a series of <a href="https://www.cattier-paris.com/fr/corps/bucco-dentaire.html?formulation=270" target="_blank">"Remineralizing" toothpastes</a>. My sister Amy kindly bought me the lemon flavor. And it works as a wonderful palate cleanser - better than sorbet, even.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfNiimFF4IZ3mJMqKWE22IIeWrolXGNGKzm5khF6qicKmuPFkxNgOhQ064C5Aqy7uuo6dYDZaMFdqvPaZW3Sk3cDparQQEvRpmJ5y1b8fkuI8f8QaVFdPHIY94biuB1CkEc9bMm-WMwbHaovoGmXl11ZbAscEi_ZCJpcripkAb5lloR6a-MKDJzy1Q8w/s1200/cattier-paris-toothpaste.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="592" data-original-width="1200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfNiimFF4IZ3mJMqKWE22IIeWrolXGNGKzm5khF6qicKmuPFkxNgOhQ064C5Aqy7uuo6dYDZaMFdqvPaZW3Sk3cDparQQEvRpmJ5y1b8fkuI8f8QaVFdPHIY94biuB1CkEc9bMm-WMwbHaovoGmXl11ZbAscEi_ZCJpcripkAb5lloR6a-MKDJzy1Q8w/s16000/cattier-paris-toothpaste.jpg" /></a></div><br /><p>I find that if I eat something really sweet, it will spoil my taste for whatever's next. So if I'm home and on a serious snack binge, I will occasionally brush my teeth between courses, if whatever I'm about to eat deserves to be fully enjoyed.</p><p>This lemon toothpaste is natural in composition and very neutral in flavor. Extremely subtle is a good way to describe the flavor.</p><p>As you might expect, there is no dye and no artificial color.</p><p>I assume that clay is the abrasive agent that accomplishes the bulk of the cleaning.</p><p>American tastes tend toward extremes. If Colgate made lemon toothpaste, it would hit you over the head with citrus flavor. Cattier-Paris opted to give you a gentle lullaby.</p><p>Their website has no info about their toothpastes other than "our organic toothpastes allow you to maintain healthy oral hygiene whatever your needs: whitening, anti-plaque and tartar, fresh breath or sensitive gums."</p><p>Come on, Cattier-Paris, give us more! <b><i>Anyone</i></b> could use those words to describe their organic toothpastes.</p><p>The box the tube came in provided a little more info:</p><p></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><b>Clay:</b> rich in minerals, strengthens the tooth enamel.</li><li><b>Sea Salt:</b> rich in trace elements, tightens the gums and stimulates natural tooth cleaning.</li><li><b>Essential Oil of Organic Lemon:</b> an astringent and toning agent, soothes and strengthens the gums.</li></ul>I was amused to think of this toothpaste toning my teeth. I didn't know they needed that.<p></p><div>If you can find a tube, I'd highly recommend you buy it.</div>paulmerrillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03555284589007691780noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-799762931546951446.post-53571008968981241602022-09-04T14:27:00.001-06:002022-09-04T14:27:46.370-06:00With My Spearmint Toothpaste Review <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjldRNi4YfQyZitNZBD7Ebe0sofK4QqveVmDx2w-Iapsc7QhgAii32soWyBXDnE_Fe5muA8lizVfbPMoa2BHZrVmCq4_D4uUoOisBJcMlttdkYA7o0Z79uFWuSZtvHbJqN8PQwTTcv8rCYOyn1x8MgqZpFM-8FtY0FRcS7sKFVo1mPybR0wF_aR7FxGSw/s1200/with-my-spearmint.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="530" data-original-width="1200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjldRNi4YfQyZitNZBD7Ebe0sofK4QqveVmDx2w-Iapsc7QhgAii32soWyBXDnE_Fe5muA8lizVfbPMoa2BHZrVmCq4_D4uUoOisBJcMlttdkYA7o0Z79uFWuSZtvHbJqN8PQwTTcv8rCYOyn1x8MgqZpFM-8FtY0FRcS7sKFVo1mPybR0wF_aR7FxGSw/s16000/with-my-spearmint.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>First - a wonderful, lovely-tasting spearmint toothpaste.<div><br /></div><div>Second - maybe a little help with branding is needed:</div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>"With My" is possibly meaningful in Korean, but it doesn't mean anything in the USA unless followed by something like, "...healthy teeth."</li><li>The packaging is elegant and tasteful, but the type is far too small.</li></ul><div>Now that I've dispensed with criticism, <a href="http://withmy.co.kr/home_e" target="_blank">With My</a> is committed to using environmental and sustainable ingredients and materials and gives back 10% of its profits to children's oral care and education. Christina, the brand's founder, has impressive credentials - a DDS from New York University and a BA in public health from Johns Hopkins University. (My father had a Master's in public health from Johns Hopkins, so I've always had a fondness for that school.)</div></div><div><br /></div><div>Visiting their website is worth it if only to see the photo of Christina butting her head with toothpaste.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>I love this toothpaste!</b> I haven't tried their lemonade flavor, but if given the chance, I'd leap.</div><div><br /></div><div>Besides tasting very fresh, it leaves my mouth feeling clean and palate-neutral. Some toothpastes are so strong that the flavor of whatever I eat afterwards is messed up by that lingering taste.</div><div><br /></div><span><a name='more'></a></span><div><i>Special thanks to my sister Sharon, who gifted me with this excellent toothpaste.</i></div>paulmerrillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03555284589007691780noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-799762931546951446.post-64382143801073467172022-06-05T20:46:00.002-06:002022-06-05T20:46:49.494-06:00Freska-ra Toothpaste Review<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhf5Qv4_JM-9p1lPMAWSDrXRL9R-D9PIjo2VKcUnpa56lw4xZ-e0c83B5gVCm0K98slHZ8xxIYujvVrjoC_W72LN3GTT7Q4_8cxyF_NQUsJoV6ZYyBQ7AUA1ZgKaZdKp8cZcEaWK0OCGtXFoaDmZ4lMRk0Kv6YLL-jO3XaU9U0OmsygnnQLj36ssIt5wA/s1200/freska-ra-toothpaste.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Freska-ra Toothpaste" border="0" data-original-height="626" data-original-width="1200" height="209" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhf5Qv4_JM-9p1lPMAWSDrXRL9R-D9PIjo2VKcUnpa56lw4xZ-e0c83B5gVCm0K98slHZ8xxIYujvVrjoC_W72LN3GTT7Q4_8cxyF_NQUsJoV6ZYyBQ7AUA1ZgKaZdKp8cZcEaWK0OCGtXFoaDmZ4lMRk0Kv6YLL-jO3XaU9U0OmsygnnQLj36ssIt5wA/w400-h209/freska-ra-toothpaste.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />Fresk-ra is a very generic toothpaste that I picked up during a recent visit to Mexico. It seems that most toothpastes reviewed recently were the result of trips by friends, so I was thrilled to have the opportunity to do a little travel.<p></p><p>I grabbed this one at a supermarket. Unusual brands are normally found at pharmacies or health-food stores, but this one was buried among a vast sea of Crest and Colgate in a standard supermarket.</p><p>However, it's no different than so many big-name toothpastes. In fact, it's made by Colgate Palmolive. Amusingly, since it's a low-price brand, it's not even featured on <a href="https://www.colgate.com/es-mx/products#" target="_blank">the Mexican Colgate website</a>. (The only way I found <a href="https://www.colgate.com/es-mx/products/toothpaste/colgate-freska-ra" target="_blank">the Freska-ra page</a> was through a Google search.)</p><p>Fresk-ra is a generic-tasting green gel. I am thankful for all the benefits it provides... In case you're wondering, here are what the five-in-one amazing features of this toothpaste are:</p><p></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><i>aliento fresco</i> = fresh breath</li><li><i>anticaries</i> = anti-cavities</li><li><i>limpieza efectiva</i> = effective cleaning</li><li><i>dientes fuertas</i> = strong teeth</li><li><i>combate gérmenes</i> = fights germs</li></ul><p></p><p>If you're ever in Mexico, don't be afraid to pick up a tube. You'll get a full experience of mediocre brushing pleasure. And you <i>will</i> enjoy saving money.</p>paulmerrillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03555284589007691780noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-799762931546951446.post-63385766736351157272021-11-13T17:37:00.002-07:002021-11-13T17:37:21.885-07:00Pure Beginnings Fresh Mint Toothpaste Review<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1Mjf6-IxbfxDmFBvtpptbnK8Q1tXl6Zu4UOK7KhFD5LbR6nqh7OUGPURyccZBhioWmHD_x0ClwzcbFpGfY1KZY5kMaja7LT91mkrOAlfWgUH3gGjDLyiIgIHxkAxX247AtpCLJuxUwguo/s1200/pure-beginnings-toothpaste.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Pure Beginnings Toothpaste" border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="425" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1Mjf6-IxbfxDmFBvtpptbnK8Q1tXl6Zu4UOK7KhFD5LbR6nqh7OUGPURyccZBhioWmHD_x0ClwzcbFpGfY1KZY5kMaja7LT91mkrOAlfWgUH3gGjDLyiIgIHxkAxX247AtpCLJuxUwguo/w227-h640/pure-beginnings-toothpaste.jpg" width="227" /></a></div><br />This is the very first toothpaste I've ever reviewed from South Africa.<p></p><p>It pays to have friends from all over the world. My buddy Gary and his wife Lori normally live in a suburb of Cape Town. They kindly sent me this wonderful tube to add to the Toothpaste Museum.</p><p>We've known each other since our firstborn kids sucked in their first breath of air in Nairobi, Kenya. His daughter arrived something like six months sooner than our son. Both attended the same school during our second shared set of years there. Both went on to get master's degrees. (Our son is also second in starting that rite of passage, but only because he elected to get some "real world" job experience before diving into academia.)</p><hr /><p>But this is a blog about toothpaste.</p><p><a href="https://www.purebeginnings.co.za/care/adult-fresh-mint-toothpaste/" target="_blank">Pure Beginnings Organic Care Fresh Mint Toothpaste</a> is lovely. The taste is subtle and mild. The mint flavor is balanced and not overwhelming.</p><p>I love the natural beige color, knowing that it comes from using no bleach or dyes.</p><p>Sadly, like so many natural toothpastes, it does not have fluoride. Thus, it's not a daily-use toothpaste for me. But I love it as part of my weekly mix.</p><p><a href="https://www.purebeginnings.co.za/" target="_blank">Pure Beginnings</a> specializes in body washes, lotions and deodorants. This is the only toothpaste they make. I vote for more flavors!</p><p>Finally, I discovered that Pure Beginnings is based in a suburb of Durban, which is on the east coast of South Africa. It's a full 1,600 km (995 miles) from Cape Town.</p><p>Maybe someday I'll make it down to beautiful South Africa.</p>paulmerrillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03555284589007691780noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-799762931546951446.post-44792090587170749272021-04-04T14:40:00.002-06:002021-04-04T14:45:00.991-06:00Colgate Miswak Toothpaste Review<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiI9icTlrpQYbMRVZwarEH70gPkovWVo7v_CM4YiOt1iZ9zeFBVNsnHO5xmESF_LoDgzKg3gBYAy7mQ5-9xs5RkdVGeI8fCJqt_rbzFrwSvQ0mb-CR-SVs1q7UGrG9ECgOVCIcsHcGlNQCq/s1200/colgate-misvak-toothpaste.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Colgate Misvak Toothpaste" border="0" data-original-height="602" data-original-width="1200" height="201" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiI9icTlrpQYbMRVZwarEH70gPkovWVo7v_CM4YiOt1iZ9zeFBVNsnHO5xmESF_LoDgzKg3gBYAy7mQ5-9xs5RkdVGeI8fCJqt_rbzFrwSvQ0mb-CR-SVs1q7UGrG9ECgOVCIcsHcGlNQCq/w400-h201/colgate-misvak-toothpaste.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>Miswak is a historic method of brushing teeth - reputed to have been used by Muslims over 7000 years ago (<a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Miswak" target="_blank">Wikipedia</a>).<p></p><p>Hundreds of years ago, Muslims conquered parts of the world, just like the Europeans. With their domination came spreading Arabic culture. Muslims on Lama Island, off the coast of Kenya, built beautiful buildings with similar architecture to some parts of Morocco, thousands of miles away.</p><p>Miswak toothpastes are found in the <a href="https://www.toothpastemuseum.com/2014/01/miswak.html" target="_blank">north of England</a>, India, <a href="https://www.hamdard.com.pk/consumer_brand/detail/20" target="_blank">Pakistan</a> and other places around the world. This one's from Turkey.</p><p>Colgate-Palmolive is a huge multinational corporation based in New York. And obviously, they have factories in Turkey. They sell Misvak toothpaste there but not in the USA. (Companies must adapt to each local market to make money.)</p><p>Note that the Turkish spelling of miswak is "misvak."</p><p>This toothpaste has a strong flavor - somewhat anise-like and very clean tasting. It's not as mild as many of the European toothpastes I've reviewed. Kids would probably reject this one immediately. But those with more - ahem - refined taste - will enjoy the powerful flavor. (Very few kids like sipping black coffee, but I definitely do.)</p><p>It's white with a slight brownish tint coming from the miswak plant. Calcium is an ingredient, strongly contributing to the white color. I'm a happy brusher from its added fluoride.</p><p>I'd recommend this paste, if you can find it!</p><p>Finally, I leave you with this delightful <a href="https://vimeo.com/410309329" target="_blank">Turkish Misvak toothpaste commercial</a>.</p>paulmerrillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03555284589007691780noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-799762931546951446.post-41564662960557208452020-12-06T14:44:00.006-07:002020-12-06T16:25:24.507-07:00Marvis Classic Strong Mint Toothpaste<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0ZU6U_emBFYJIdQ81-u7DgOXKBnhKNT2jBrqaDiRtQrze6Vv4Cv8EVWp6lPgTLhQIwHULbOpdCsna1Z82BmMjo_L7AyzzutS4yrkk4_6rr-ssT42s8axjUHCHj25UU_qPN6h4JjzaTvi2/s2943/marvis-strong-mint.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Marvis Class Strong Mint toothpaste" border="0" data-original-height="1068" data-original-width="2943" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0ZU6U_emBFYJIdQ81-u7DgOXKBnhKNT2jBrqaDiRtQrze6Vv4Cv8EVWp6lPgTLhQIwHULbOpdCsna1Z82BmMjo_L7AyzzutS4yrkk4_6rr-ssT42s8axjUHCHj25UU_qPN6h4JjzaTvi2/s16000/marvis-strong-mint.jpg" /></a></div><br /><p><br /></p><p><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-size: small;">The Marvelous Mrs. Marvis.</span></p><p><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222;">This is truly the crème de la crème of toothpastes. Or in the correct language, Italian, it would be something like "ultimo primo." (I should ask my son who speaks Italian, but I’m too lazy.)</span></p><p><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-size: small;">Marvis is made in Firenze, Italia... about an hour and a half from the home of Ferrari.</span></p><p><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-size: small;">I bought this tube in Italy, and I saw it languishing in the museum (a drawer in my house) and realized that If I didn’t use it, it would dry up and be worthless. That would be a huge shame, since this is such a great toothpaste.</span></p><p><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-size: small;">Classic Strong Mint is maybe their most popular flavor - and for good reason. It’s wonderfully balanced and not too strong. The paste itself is white and pure. No color dies here! And I’m happy to report that it has fluoride.</span></p><p><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-size: small;">You can buy Marvis online from several retailers in the US. I’d recommend that you give it a go.</span></p><p><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-size: small;">You'll enjoy <a href="https://www.marvis.com/" target="_blank">their website</a>. And finally, I reviewed <a href="https://www.toothpastemuseum.com/2017/03/marvis-toothpaste-from-italy.html">a couple of their other flavors</a> previously.
Enjoy!</span></p>paulmerrillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03555284589007691780noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-799762931546951446.post-53463485159916837432020-10-04T13:41:00.002-06:002020-10-04T13:44:55.127-06:00Albert Heijn Tandsteen Toothpaste Review<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuaDfRVbcMd2tc2oGSNzLpRZgVoLqkbFOxEM8CNWOF6nopv2R1VSXYRVE2qRns4jgb66qTWFkP5NLwKejyoOoKL6aYsMrbmo5Jb9S6EREBTZdpl5nZYvePs5_FoItmrryXGTW3CY3ccGb0/s650/albert-heijn-anti-tandsteen.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="263" data-original-width="650" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuaDfRVbcMd2tc2oGSNzLpRZgVoLqkbFOxEM8CNWOF6nopv2R1VSXYRVE2qRns4jgb66qTWFkP5NLwKejyoOoKL6aYsMrbmo5Jb9S6EREBTZdpl5nZYvePs5_FoItmrryXGTW3CY3ccGb0/s16000/albert-heijn-anti-tandsteen.jpg" /></a></div><br /><p></p><br />Albert Heijn Anti Tandsteen Toothpaste has a mild minty flavor. Like so many other European toothpastes, the flavor is milder than America's mainstream toothpastes.<br /><br />Anti Tandsteen is a pure white chalky paste. It's one of their basic budget offerings - among the least expensive toothpastes they sell. Just like <a href="https://www.toothpastemuseum.com/2020/04/albert-heijn-extra-mint-toothpaste.html" target="_blank">Albert Heijn's Extra Mint Toothpaste</a>, it's almost cheaper than any paste you can buy in the USA. (Sadly, since I purchased it in February 2019, they discontinued the product.)<br /><br /><a href="https://www.ah.nl/" target="_blank">Albert Heijn</a> is a Netherlands-based supermarket chain that carries a typical amount of toothpaste. I bought this tube while I was visiting my sister Amy, who lives near Antwerp, Belgium. There is an Albert Heijn store within bicycling distance from her house.<br /><br />Just like their Extra Mint, it has fluoride - which always makes me happy.<br /><br />The illustration behind the big white tooth depicts white rays destroying a purple brick wall. And for those of you who don't speak Dutch, <i>tandsteen</i> means tartar, or plaque. So this wonderful toothpaste is meant to destroy my plaque.paulmerrillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03555284589007691780noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-799762931546951446.post-51316255238782639742020-05-09T10:54:00.000-06:002020-05-09T14:51:19.866-06:00Ecodenta Papaya Toothpaste Review<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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It's always gratifying to buy a product that is both good for you and good for the planet.<br />
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<a href="https://www.ecodenta.eu/?lang=en" target="_blank">Ecodenta</a>, a company based in Vilnius, Lithuania, makes a stand for health. And in the case of their Papaya Organic Toothpaste, it has 99% natural ingredients.<br />
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The main feature of this toothpaste is its natural whitening action. Papaya extract is supposed to <a href="https://www.ecodenta.eu/product/ecodenta-whitening-toothpaste-with-papaya-extract/?lang=en" target="_blank">whiten your teeth without any degradation to the enamel of your teeth</a>. I can't vouch for its effectiveness, as my teeth are hopelessly stained with tetracycline as a kid and excess coffee use as an adult.<br />
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The package is very distinctive. You have to buy the toothpaste to discover that the box is green inside. I appreciate that attention to detail by the package designers.<br />
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The flavor is very subtle. I honestly can't taste any papaya.<br />
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And I love that it has flouride.<br />
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Sadly, it's only available in the USA at a rather steep price. I am thankful to my sister who lives in Belgium... what a wonderful surprise it was to see this in a package of gifts last Christmas!paulmerrillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03555284589007691780noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-799762931546951446.post-12327947679981442312020-04-04T17:56:00.003-06:002020-04-04T17:56:23.620-06:00Albert Heijn Extra Mint Toothpaste Review<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXzK2LkjwoRIbJpbPrA5dm9x9IdAb9eP1e8RDw8jZ-Ze3j23OLxYTNajsdv5V3o48Ok0H9fi5yNW7uaP9LGkkkz4FI2NVZWkqaTCVOoDwPmhgR7tgVgmcbTfQOFLkvHPmwq9N0N9S26row/s1600/albert-heijn-extra-mint.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="239" data-original-width="650" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXzK2LkjwoRIbJpbPrA5dm9x9IdAb9eP1e8RDw8jZ-Ze3j23OLxYTNajsdv5V3o48Ok0H9fi5yNW7uaP9LGkkkz4FI2NVZWkqaTCVOoDwPmhgR7tgVgmcbTfQOFLkvHPmwq9N0N9S26row/s1600/albert-heijn-extra-mint.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Albert Heijn Extra Mint Toothpaste is a very strong, almost medicinal toothpaste. It's among the strongest flavors I've ever experienced in a European toothpaste.<br />
<br />
It's green with little white stripes. It's one of their basic budget offerings - among the least expensive toothpastes they sell. In fact, it's almost cheaper than any paste you can buy in the USA. (Here's <a href="https://www.ah.nl/producten/product/wi457967/ah-coolmint-tandpasta" target="_blank">a link to this toothpaste</a>, which will not work if they discontinue the product.)<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.ah.nl/" target="_blank">Albert Heijn</a> is a Netherlands-based supermarket chain. My sister Amy, who lives near Antwerp, Belgium, gave it to me as a gift. And shipping it to me made it a very expensive toothpaste. (Thank you, Amy!)<br />
<br />
I'm happy to report that it has fluoride.<br />
<br />
I love how the graphic is an illustration of a white tooth floating over an Arctic landscape with an igloo in the background. Eskimos would probably freak out if they saw a giant white tooth floating toward them. Americans might think it was a hot air balloon.paulmerrillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03555284589007691780noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-799762931546951446.post-52296491541069163282019-12-21T14:48:00.003-07:002021-08-09T12:55:07.158-06:00Brandless Fluoride Free Peppermint Toothpaste<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWi_euTia7afOjDiGTOvKUF8yXpv3YApmv5jqE9n1P7Q5FflBeMqF7awb8be50IrGgbGMgqY6JMs3BEz3sje8vvZYgsDHO3eCfrhLY_uFa50EQnR7iseVA7FUXeSQZcdBks73-6YOf9xyo/s1600/brandless.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="433" data-original-width="650" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWi_euTia7afOjDiGTOvKUF8yXpv3YApmv5jqE9n1P7Q5FflBeMqF7awb8be50IrGgbGMgqY6JMs3BEz3sje8vvZYgsDHO3eCfrhLY_uFa50EQnR7iseVA7FUXeSQZcdBks73-6YOf9xyo/s1600/brandless.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Brandless is another company that was founded on a few good ideas and just hasn't worked out - because it cost more to be financially viable than was expected and the products cost more to produce than they were selling for.<br />
<br /><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px; text-align: left;"><i><b>Updates:</b></i> </blockquote><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px; text-align: left;"><i>On February 10, 2020, <a href="https://www.fastcompany.com/90462605/brandless-the-pioneering-amazon-alternative-shuts-down" target="_blank">Brandless closed down</a>.</i></blockquote><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px;"><div style="text-align: left;"><i>In August 2021, they got <a href="https://www.techbuzz.news/brandless-raises-118-million/" target="_blank">$118M of funding</a> to start back up!</i></div></blockquote><div>
<br />
I bought this tube of Brandless Fluoride-Free Peppermint Toothpaste for $3, plus shipping (along with a few other products) in early 2018. Now it's selling for $5.<br />
<br />
The concept is that you aren't paying for a big brand's marketing and advertising, fancy package design and added unhealthy chemicals.<br />
<br />
Another benefit to buying from Brandless is that every time you check out at Brandless, they donate to someone facing hunger through our partnership with <a href="https://www.feedingamerica.org/" target="_blank">Feeding America</a>. (But the <a href="https://brandless.com/about" target="_blank">Brandless website</a> doesn't say how much they will donate per order - it could be one cent.)<br />
<br />
A priceless irony is that "Brandless is a brand of its own," as <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brandless" target="_blank">Wikipedia so aptly said</a>.<br />
<br />
In an attempt to survive, in July 2018, <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brandless" target="_blank">SoftBank led a $240 million investment</a> in the company. You might remember SoftBank for <a href="https://pmerrill.com/2019/11/dont-be-a-wework/" target="_blank">throwing a <b><i>ton</i></b> of money at the failing WeWork</a>.<br />
<br />
<hr />
<br />
So - what about the toothpaste?<br />
<br />
It's white, clean, basic. I like it, except for the lack of fluoride. There's not much else to say.<br />
<br />
I don't recommended it since there are lots of other toothpastes available that will do the same thing for less - and you can avoid added shipping costs.<br />
<br /></div>paulmerrillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03555284589007691780noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-799762931546951446.post-58070835994974003112019-09-07T09:52:00.001-06:002019-09-07T09:52:13.941-06:00Ecodenta Toothpaste Review<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxiv_Z5Dwp2s8Zvf_yHmkrYQ9ssUs8f2xpTSzB6JANSUW_GxXoQ_zyLKgLlBm3ZNa5f6-rnqMCWlxzdbzoVZtO6g7MFSnUggTncgx97VUBs8VFmia5UFtkTO2eZVmTQZI_Rae88Ms3yB6Y/s1600/ecodent.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="441" data-original-width="650" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxiv_Z5Dwp2s8Zvf_yHmkrYQ9ssUs8f2xpTSzB6JANSUW_GxXoQ_zyLKgLlBm3ZNa5f6-rnqMCWlxzdbzoVZtO6g7MFSnUggTncgx97VUBs8VFmia5UFtkTO2eZVmTQZI_Rae88Ms3yB6Y/s1600/ecodent.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
I did not visit Lithuania to grab this toothpaste. Rather, I found it in Haarlem, Netherlands, in the Dutch equivalent to Walgreen's (US) or Boots (UK).<br />
<br />
Ecodenta Whitening Toothpaste is one of the most delicious toothpastes I have ever encountered. The unique mix of bergamot and lemon essential oils lend it a taste that is simply indescribable.<br />
<br />
Frequent flyer visitors to this website know that I enjoy observing the work of non-English translators on the packaging. In this instance, an all caps declaration of "ANTI Coffee & Tobacco" possibly implies that using this toothpaste will help you quit those nasty habits.<br />
<br />
The company that makes Ecodenta is based in <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vilnius" target="_blank">Vilnius</a>, the capital and largest city in Lithuania. Biok is a manufacturer of healthy cosmetics and oral care products. Their website does not list this toothpaste. This toothpaste was definitely made for the Eastern European market since its tube has ingredients in eight European and Slavic languages. Dutch was presented via a white sticker pasted onto the box.<br />
<br />
Finding this toothpaste online is more difficult than you might think. Biok's website has an <a href="https://outlet.biok.lt/Produktai/outlet/burnos-prieziura/dantu-pastos/" target="_blank">Outlet section</a> and they offer a separate website for <a href="https://www.ecodenta.lt/" target="_blank">their Ecodenta line</a>. None of them offer the tootpaste I bought. <a href="https://smile.amazon.com/s?k=ecodenta&ref=nb_sb_noss_1" target="_blank">Amazon</a>, however, does.<br />
<br />
Thankfully, this toothpaste has fluoride. And <a href="https://www.in-cosmetics.com/__novadocuments/72320?v=635584817617400000" target="_blank">Kalident</a> is a micro-abrasive ingredient that apparently not only cleans teeth but helps whiten them naturally.<br />
<br />
Finally, Biok offers <a href="https://youtu.be/TDFi_9chxYI" target="_blank">a glimpse into their laboratory on YouTube</a>, featuring a late 90s musical soundtrack. I wasn't able to watch the entire video.paulmerrillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03555284589007691780noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-799762931546951446.post-53834469165097657702019-06-15T17:50:00.000-06:002019-06-15T17:50:03.475-06:00Colgate Essentials Charcoal Toothpaste Review<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfUml_LBqqCur0CsT7MX8Hwzift8CGtSVdIkH50YnYy5YTdeq7yN17eB_f2c1lTePg3W8HmTyUlNT6f5yEigS9tBwnsRyxQDaGQc04gkJDpmNZVOAJE8M9u4kcvZEYD6Hfitk-08Ixy4BV/s1600/colgate-essentials-charcoal.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="477" data-original-width="650" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfUml_LBqqCur0CsT7MX8Hwzift8CGtSVdIkH50YnYy5YTdeq7yN17eB_f2c1lTePg3W8HmTyUlNT6f5yEigS9tBwnsRyxQDaGQc04gkJDpmNZVOAJE8M9u4kcvZEYD6Hfitk-08Ixy4BV/s1600/colgate-essentials-charcoal.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
It's rare for me to review a toothpaste from the USA. But I couldn't resist taking advantage of a coupon for this toothpaste by Colgate.<br />
<br />
I've reviewed Charcoal toothpaste before - both <a href="https://www.toothpastemuseum.com/2017/09/kobayashi-charclean-charcoal-power.html" target="_blank">from Japan</a> and <a href="https://www.toothpastemuseum.com/2015/02/bamboo-charcoal-mouthguard-toothpaste.html" target="_blank">from China</a>. Finally, this trend in toothpaste has made its way across the Pacific to these shores.<br />
<br />
Colgate's interpretation of what makes a toothpaste "Charcoal" is certainly different. Both the Japanese and Chinese pastes had a much darker color. They were, as you might guess, black.<br />
<br />
Colgate went for a mere hint of charcoal, producing a silky grey paste.<br />
<br />
And the flavor - not a tiny hint of burnt anything.<br />
<br />
Colgate went for the American mainstream again - mint.<br />
<br />
This paste has a very refreshing clean minty flavor. And as you might expect, being a mainstream brand (albeit part of a niche line) means it has fluoride.<br />
<br />
I quite like the taste. It leaves my mouth feeling cleansed and ready to take on the morning. Brushing just before bed might cause me to stay awake a tiny bit longer.<br />
<br />
Other people have reviewed this toothpaste too, <a href="https://www.colgate.com/en-us/products/toothpaste/ce-charcoal" target="_blank">on Colgate's website</a>:<br />
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<img border="0" data-original-height="219" data-original-width="457" height="191" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkJ0KYRGyu9UP6aqWT37d8bQh-LhikOUilqwE6wAZUZ7R1unK885oYVReocMucXyoW-f8OLa-ylFhdFuypMab1P02AZibpdfbmLTvDBWDNN1CaukjzjhRuMC4QilMCdUHjPkMR9L5VK0Uy/s400/colgate-charcoal-reviews.jpg" width="400" /></div>
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I was amused at how several people said it protects against stains. (How can they tell?)</div>
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And "Messy"? Just brush more carefully!</div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
By the way, the only other Colgate Essentials product is <a href="https://www.colgate.com/en-us/products/toothpaste/ce-coconut-oil" target="_blank">Essentials with Coconut Oil</a>. Apparently, it's less popular, since it garnered 30% fewer reviews.</div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<u>Conclusion:</u> Give it a try, if you can find it on your supermarket shelves.</div>
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<br />
<br />paulmerrillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03555284589007691780noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-799762931546951446.post-82070871369284231372019-02-24T18:24:00.000-07:002019-02-24T18:31:00.857-07:00Veldent Extreme Awake Toothpaste<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDDecOmbRscef1_oxJ-pNRomLuw7hYsvZ6XJiMmAFf3cKZbLc7UpXCIYYM_QzbUg_Jdu9_akk89N4ThWuEIYGIymwNH_9Zje-jZ_CpAAKYFfj4pBq3Mpsd9JQaKMlFlfVK0JpdzcY8A-9E/s1600/veldent.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="402" data-original-width="650" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDDecOmbRscef1_oxJ-pNRomLuw7hYsvZ6XJiMmAFf3cKZbLc7UpXCIYYM_QzbUg_Jdu9_akk89N4ThWuEIYGIymwNH_9Zje-jZ_CpAAKYFfj4pBq3Mpsd9JQaKMlFlfVK0JpdzcY8A-9E/s1600/veldent.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
I love the often rough translations into English on the packaging of international toothpastes.<br />
<br />
<a class="" href="https://www.veldent.co.th/" target="_blank">Veldent</a>, from Thailand, has several interesting choices in their marketing messages:<br />
<ul>
<li>"Nutrition Toothpaste" would imply something you could eat in North American English. Thai English might convey a different meaning.</li>
<li>The "<a href="https://www.veldent.co.th/extreme-awake/" target="_blank">Extreme Awake</a>" flavor does not seem to relate to a sleep prevention stimulant, like caffeine. After I ran the website through Google Translate, they claim the toothpaste "awakens your mood in every beginning of each day."</li>
<li>Apparently, moisture in the mouth is a thing in Thailand: "Helps increase the moisture in the mouth." (This might be a great toothpaste if you suffer from a dry mouth.)</li>
<li>On the box, one of the active ingredients is listed as cyclodextrin, which sounds a bit scary. <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cyclodextrin" target="_blank">Wikipedia says</a> it "confers solubility and stability" to other drugs - which would not make it an active ingredient but rather an enhancing ingredient, maybe for the contained vitamins B12, C and E.</li>
</ul>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivcr-CTj7Y-vbftzjCqmY3naxlB-HpkSBNZCxHwAPJ4nY467LRyCVJCld_Glfi3CaQNOXEjaGmlNU5Pr_q2UF4CZnZyDKnIxCc1eeoFhchZmQhAUMxVY8Wiu72EEIiPAIw1hMACc2OsNqm/s1600/veldent-paste.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Veldent toothpaste" border="0" data-original-height="230" data-original-width="250" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivcr-CTj7Y-vbftzjCqmY3naxlB-HpkSBNZCxHwAPJ4nY467LRyCVJCld_Glfi3CaQNOXEjaGmlNU5Pr_q2UF4CZnZyDKnIxCc1eeoFhchZmQhAUMxVY8Wiu72EEIiPAIw1hMACc2OsNqm/s1600/veldent-paste.jpg" title="" /></a></div>
<div>
This paste is "rock mint flavor." The taste is very strong - almost medicinal. Some toothpastes have such subtle flavors that I almost feel like I need to brush my teeth twice to get a truly clean feeling. That's not true for Veldent Extreme Awake!<br />
<br />
The product designers chose the color of the paste to be light blue with a slightly green tint. It makes for a great color combination with the yellow tube and orange cap.</div>
<div>
<br />
<hr />
<div>
<i>Special thanks to Marti Wade, who very kindly brought this back after a visit to Thailand.</i></div>
</div>
paulmerrillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03555284589007691780noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-799762931546951446.post-87762364101213985792018-11-24T13:15:00.000-07:002018-11-24T13:15:19.766-07:00Green Beaver Star Anise Toothpaste<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXoAc0Vh_ppwaTLu9Otf3E6SV1QqLYB9dgAaDtZJJEnRhy1a1Afaeh_imFIdEH6OMUwKHMpLnWkZmlfntyijEd40bMor6NP7HoHxhvRCGtCvsro7wYiAujz80RuyEcrPmUbFHdz-RJe7yR/s1600/anise-etoile.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="418" data-original-width="664" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXoAc0Vh_ppwaTLu9Otf3E6SV1QqLYB9dgAaDtZJJEnRhy1a1Afaeh_imFIdEH6OMUwKHMpLnWkZmlfntyijEd40bMor6NP7HoHxhvRCGtCvsro7wYiAujz80RuyEcrPmUbFHdz-RJe7yR/s1600/anise-etoile.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Canada is a different place than my home, the larger country south of its border.<br />
<br />
It's generally more liberal and inclusive. (The entire country now has legalized recreational marijuana. To my limited knowledge, they are the only country in the world with that law.) One way their inclusiveness is reflected in toothpastes (and all Canadian packaged products) is their bilingual packaging. 20% or less of Canada speaks French, yet their packages give 50% of their descriptive real estate to the French language.<br />
<br />
My family and I ventured into Alberta during this past summer to explore the Canadian Rockies. I discovered they are bigger (yet shorter in altitude) than the Colorado Rockies. For those of you who have been to Colorado, you may have seen the <a href="https://www.aspenchamber.org/maroon-bells" target="_blank">Maroon Bells</a>, our most-photographed mountains - stunningly gorgeous. Alberta's Rockies were like seeing different versions of the Maroon Bells over and over - we never ran out of "OOOOHS" and "AAAHS!"<br />
<br />
And of course, that trip meant an exploration of locally available toothpastes. The only truly Canadian brand I found was <a href="https://greenbeaver.com/en" target="_blank">The Green Beaver Company</a>. Their mission is to provide "natural body products that allow you to take care of your health and your family while respecting the environment." All good!<br />
<br />
I bought a tube of their Star Anise for myself and for my Belgian sister.<br />
<br />
I'm glad I took the plunge - it's a wonderful very mild toothpaste.<br />
<br />
It's white and a bit chalky. The anise flavor is subtle and not overwhelming. One of my favorite characteristics of any toothpaste is part of the Star Anise experience - it's very slightly sweet. And as with most natural-oriented companies, their toothpastes are vegan, gluten-free (which could be said for the vast majority of toothpastes), homeopathic-friendly, fluoride free and sodium lauryl sulfate free.<br />
<br />
If you're ever in Canada, give it a try!paulmerrillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03555284589007691780noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-799762931546951446.post-51490581783281703772018-07-15T08:02:00.000-06:002018-07-15T08:02:01.521-06:00Blue M Toothpaste Review<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJ6LmLubJo0839o_4Zht2c1rPbj5oDObLKCxuXRmi8cB-KTb9CjyhPYlcAHPJpyu-RyV-3CwgXynQxNRF4CLQ9HiSBzkueyd-zzJmuB68OpVLAKjwv9LnU-t2_cI7vAXkvUfRtUTOwl8tV/s1600/blue-m.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="650" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJ6LmLubJo0839o_4Zht2c1rPbj5oDObLKCxuXRmi8cB-KTb9CjyhPYlcAHPJpyu-RyV-3CwgXynQxNRF4CLQ9HiSBzkueyd-zzJmuB68OpVLAKjwv9LnU-t2_cI7vAXkvUfRtUTOwl8tV/s1600/blue-m.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Blue M toothpaste is clean, fresh, and very minty.<br />
<br />
My sister Amy sent Blue M to me by mail, and as I opened the package, the fresh minty smell reached my nostrils - which is very unusual. My sense of smell is very muted, due to a childhood sinus infection that wiped out much of my olfactory nerve center.<br />
<br />
But back to Blue M... it's blue, as you might expect. The paste falls loosely into the gel category.<br />
<br />
As you can see from the package, it's fluoride free, which is great if you live in a place that has a high natural concentration of fluoride in the water supply. I went to college at Texas Tech, in Lubbock. Water in the Texas Panhandle does have a high concentration of fluoride. Local natives who have lived there their whole lives and haven't undergone teeth whitening sometimes have slightly brown teeth - a strange side effect of too much fluoride. But presumably, they have strong teeth!<br />
<br />
But back to Blue M... it's from the Netherlands. Their unique approach to dental health includes a formula that allows "the gradual release of oxygen in the mouth." Further, "the mouth is the beginning of the digestive system and therefore essential for overall health. Oxygen plays a key role in almost every step in the process of wound healing" (<a href="https://www.bluemcare.com/bluem-fluoride-free-toothpaste-elected-best-toothpaste-of-the-year/" target="_blank">source</a>).<br />
<br />
Turns out that this toothpaste is designed to help those with dental implants. Even though I still have my own teeth, I found it to be very refreshing. After brushing, my mouth felt very clean.<br />
<br />
I love the tube - it has a matte-finish tube, and the lid even has a bit of matte-texture.<br />
<br />
<hr />
<br />
<i>And special thanks to Amy for bringing oxygen to my mouth!</i>paulmerrillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03555284589007691780noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-799762931546951446.post-30365939320194484022018-01-27T15:03:00.001-07:002018-01-27T15:03:15.739-07:00Lion Clinica for Kids Toothpaste Review<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMEpops1zpLjvZVjO7VE2bJu_ovItSQMLr9H-s2wqHkdHxlif5OYJQ43XfD-haQ_YynQBNNCiu_vZQbG9nTBsrZjiqvkE9Dd-G5h8DGqVYgHVSfjiEpo-taZXnSuL7SpxzvMF1MmedlsXJ/s1600/lion-strawberry.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="431" data-original-width="650" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMEpops1zpLjvZVjO7VE2bJu_ovItSQMLr9H-s2wqHkdHxlif5OYJQ43XfD-haQ_YynQBNNCiu_vZQbG9nTBsrZjiqvkE9Dd-G5h8DGqVYgHVSfjiEpo-taZXnSuL7SpxzvMF1MmedlsXJ/s1600/lion-strawberry.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
My friend Ted A. visited Japan and brought me back this fun kids' toothpaste. Joy!<br />
<br />
Lion is a company based in Japan that produces health, beauty and cleaning products. Their <a href="http://www.lion.co.jp/en/company/statement.php" target="_blank">corporate philosophy</a> is based on much more touchy-feely stuff than American companies would delve into: <i>"Our corporate slogan: 'life. love.' encapsulates the meaning of our corporate message. We chose the word 'life' for all its meanings: the natural force of life, the day-to-day experience of living and the journey that is a lifetime. Similarly, 'love' evokes a range of meanings, such as compassion, caring and tenderness."</i><br />
<br />
Since the package is entirely in Japanese, except for the words "Lion" and "toothpaste," I am not able to interpret what this particular toothpaste aims to do - other than to get kids to brush their teeth. Lion's toothpaste listings <a href="http://www.lion.co.jp/en/products/category/oral/9" target="_blank">web page</a> wasn't very helpful either.<br />
<br />
Its strawberry flavor is fairly straightforward. Interestingly, Lion did not dye the paste pink or red. Instead, it's a clean white.<br />
<br />
Since I'm not a kid, I wouldn't enjoy the strawberry flavor every day. But it was mild enough that I didn't mind brushing with it.<br />
<br />
Toothpaste manufacturers don't want to make a toothpaste so appealing that kids would want to make an after-school treat out of the whole tube. So they have to make it nice enough that kids won't mind brushing but not tasty enough that they want to eat it.<br />
<br />
<hr />
<br />
If you want to enjoy this uniquely Japanese experience, as of this writing, you can buy it on ebay... search for "LION Anpanman Japanese best seller-toothpaste for kids strawberry flavor 4packs".<br />
<br />paulmerrillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03555284589007691780noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-799762931546951446.post-4020649620322285602017-12-30T12:16:00.001-07:002017-12-30T12:18:02.721-07:00Zendium Toothpaste Review<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3CdZpdhqVNjyoAHvhsAR5HMJORPNjfc7BW5V5b1uXVoZki0pbLxX0XPbNHwaHFd3ofnuKIUP6MlyamaqP6RdrW78akeS8bAwx_wC6zcCHU9CszSA_5MF-_3OOf_PcgyIOBUeHudraVlwr/s1600/zendium.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="442" data-original-width="650" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3CdZpdhqVNjyoAHvhsAR5HMJORPNjfc7BW5V5b1uXVoZki0pbLxX0XPbNHwaHFd3ofnuKIUP6MlyamaqP6RdrW78akeS8bAwx_wC6zcCHU9CszSA_5MF-_3OOf_PcgyIOBUeHudraVlwr/s1600/zendium.jpg" /></a></div>
Zendium is a European toothpaste that promotes a healthy bacterial ecosystem in our bodies.<br />
<br />
Bacteria are both beneficial and detrimental to our health. If we live in an environment that is too sterile, our bodies cannot fight off the unhealthy bacteria.<br />
<br />
Some toothpastes apparently kill off both good and bad bacteria. But not Zendium (or at least that's the claim).<br />
<br />
The fascinating thing to me, an American, is that this bacterial-health toothpaste is made by a multinational company, <a href="https://www.unilever.com/" target="_blank">Unilever</a>. In the USA, such products would be sold by small independent companies that have really tiny budgets.<br />
<br />
So yeah, bring Zedium to the USA, Unilever! (In contrast, one example of the kinds of toothpaste sold here by Unilever is Closeup - pretty mainstream.)<br />
<br />
You can read more about the bacterial benefits of this toothpaste on the <a href="https://www.zendium.de/ihre-zukunft-liegt-in-ihren-mikroben/" target="_blank">Zendium website</a> (in German, but your browser should translate it for you).<br />
<br />
<hr />
<br />
Back to the toothpaste... it's white, clean, refreshing and not too sweet. Of course, it's minty... Europeans and Americans both associate minty flavors with a clean feeling.<br />
<br />
I love that it's a flouride toothpaste.<br />
<br />
The tube has an easy quick-twist lid. The size is a bit smaller than many American brands - just 75 ml.<br />
<br />
It's packaged for the European market - ingredients are translated into six different languages.<br />
<br />
<i>Special thanks to my sister Amy for sending this to me from her native Belgium.</i>paulmerrillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03555284589007691780noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-799762931546951446.post-25282762321815112882017-12-03T16:40:00.002-07:002017-12-03T20:52:55.493-07:00Thieves AromabrightIt's a truly rare event for an American toothpaste to make it to the International Toothpaste Muesum. America <b><i>is</i></b> a part of the world, but the intent of this website is to review toothpastes that are not widely available at the average American supermarket or Walgreen's.<br />
<br />
But sometimes a toothpaste <u>needs</u> to be reviewed here.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjl8lc35oUhfVgbivs5XWwGSu1uplByxvHRFfxquZyhHxKOtiOSWGPFIbE7SgB3SUiLF1BSh1uvsgDc45sBGLnsvb-lZd81E1lcq2PWq9MZKfjF9iEp14G5GVRMVsdgiK3r84u_YBR7Z3Hj/s1600/thieves-toothpaste.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="548" data-original-width="650" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjl8lc35oUhfVgbivs5XWwGSu1uplByxvHRFfxquZyhHxKOtiOSWGPFIbE7SgB3SUiLF1BSh1uvsgDc45sBGLnsvb-lZd81E1lcq2PWq9MZKfjF9iEp14G5GVRMVsdgiK3r84u_YBR7Z3Hj/s1600/thieves-toothpaste.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<b>Thieves Aromabright</b> is exceptional in more ways than one:<br />
<ol>
<li>The flavor is delicious. A subtle blend of peppermint and Spearmint essential oils, along with lemon, make a toothpaste that is extremely enjoyable. If it weren't for the demands of having to review so many toothpastes, I'd happily use this one every day for months.</li>
<li><a href="https://www.youngliving.com/en_US/discover/guide" target="_blank">Essential oils</a> are healthy. <a href="https://www.youngliving.com/en_US" target="_blank">Young Living</a> makes a point of processing the plants that their oils are derived from as little as possible - so you receive the healthy benefits that each pure plant provides.</li>
<li>You know that you're not ingesting unhealthy unnatural dyes and flavorings. The paste has a light yellowish-beige color that you can't get from any Colgate-Palmolive product.</li>
</ol>
<div>
I can't vouch for all the benefits that Young Living touts, such as <a href="https://www.youngliving.com/en_US/discover/about" target="_blank">enhancing spiritual awareness</a>. But I would still highly recommend you try one of their <a href="https://static.youngliving.com/en-US/PDFS/toothpaste_comparison_chart.pdf" target="_blank">four flavors</a>. The flavor I have been enjoying is <b>Sweet Mint</b>.<br />
<br />
<hr />
<i>Special thanks to my friend Katrissa, who very kindly provided this toothpaste for review.</i></div>
paulmerrillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03555284589007691780noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-799762931546951446.post-80525173595550928192017-10-15T16:29:00.000-06:002017-12-03T12:00:20.995-07:00Tonigencyl Flour & Citrate de Zinc<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6K1Am1-mtlP7jApUaV3oJTPBfCYSukmi2982KB64HjHidaRyF66kjQNH4l8kIf6iLk4Y5kfWlOi2L226byQekSRPREhOdfT40GWyCfwRSLR_Xy8NG8pwDlEM7ELzXNG_62RJLBSyRuljh/s1600/tonigencyl.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="243" data-original-width="665" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6K1Am1-mtlP7jApUaV3oJTPBfCYSukmi2982KB64HjHidaRyF66kjQNH4l8kIf6iLk4Y5kfWlOi2L226byQekSRPREhOdfT40GWyCfwRSLR_Xy8NG8pwDlEM7ELzXNG_62RJLBSyRuljh/s1600/tonigencyl.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
One of the joys of international toothpastes is <b>words</b>.<br />
<br />
"Tonigencyl" - amazing. It sounds like a medical condition - maybe something related to a tonsil disorder.<br />
<br />
This toothpaste turns out to be the <a href="https://www.statista.com/statistics/444222/leading-brands-of-toothpaste-in-france/" target="_blank">tenth-most popular toothpaste in France</a>. Surely the marketing powerhouse of its creator, Colgate-Palmolive, has something to do with its popularity. When a company throws lots of money at getting the public to be familiar with its brand, that works. (Case in point - compare the popularity of McDonalds to your favorite quick-food restaurant.)<br />
<br />
This toothpaste is not available in the States, for whatever reasons the overlords at Colgate-Palmolive predetermined. You may have to visit Europe to buy a tube. (<u>Special thanks to my sister Amy</u>, who very kindly sent a tube for my birthday. She bought this tube in Belgium, where the bilingual Dutch-French packaging perfectly fits that country's needs.)<br />
<br />
So, what's it like? The paste is white and has a slightly medicinal flavor - with a tinge of anise. It's not gentle enough to be one of my daily favorites, but if you use it every few days, your tastebuds will stay alive.<br />
<br />
Tonigencyl has fluoride, which makes me a happy camper. And another significant ingredient is zinc citrate, a trace mineral that "supports and protects the immune system and helps the body fight against diseases." (<a href="http://naturalfactors.com/product/zinc-citrate/" target="_blank">Source</a>)<br />
<br />
There are <a href="http://www.colgate.fr/CP/FR/OC/Products/Toothpastes/fr_Colgate_Tonigencyl.html" target="_blank">three flavors</a>, each with different dental advantages. This particular variety is for users with sensitive teeth.<br />
<br />
Finally, I leave you with these two vintage French commercials to help you ponder the benefits of Tonigencyl: <a href="https://youtu.be/09-fl-8Qa0Q" target="_blank">one</a> and <a href="https://youtu.be/upcBHmDjYh8" target="_blank">two</a>.paulmerrillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03555284589007691780noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-799762931546951446.post-57531354536801282072017-09-09T12:43:00.000-06:002017-09-09T12:43:28.481-06:00Kobayashi Charclean Charcoal Power Toothpaste<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwY4EUZuWIZXXu9iR8e3ZUneMHxMFOUI5wSBeA3ixgZhzn0mPcXAlMsLapFaPuGgY_m6QiGy265ilss3pMFgilOO96SUtlkG5tojlZZ_BlVqn5TZBCNkW9Cgi9k4avP163vL0kV00VS5km/s1600/Kobayashi.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="527" data-original-width="700" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwY4EUZuWIZXXu9iR8e3ZUneMHxMFOUI5wSBeA3ixgZhzn0mPcXAlMsLapFaPuGgY_m6QiGy265ilss3pMFgilOO96SUtlkG5tojlZZ_BlVqn5TZBCNkW9Cgi9k4avP163vL0kV00VS5km/s1600/Kobayashi.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Japanese charcoal toothpaste.<br />
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As you might guess, the paste is black.<br />
<br />
This toothpaste has a unique flavor - unlike <a href="http://internationaltoothpastemuseum.blogspot.com/2015/02/bamboo-charcoal-mouthguard-toothpaste.html" target="_blank">Bamboo Charcoal from China</a>. This one is a bit more antiseptic. It certainly left my mouth feeling clean. And atomic black bowling balls (invisible to the naked eye) are what cause this toothpaste to be so effective... see illustration from the box.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwJaMUpCUnYHwR27kVoJutLYBLTLh3Ymz1d_9aOiVGqLQNuDZhoZgfrWkQdYUCAibyz3DbRuBSZkoILGPY4zQo_-MXSLh0MFo8PAt8xrsEDVAZQ_IqC2nIym6wcpu62cAH8LIR77v8qsfh/s1600/Kobayashi-bowling-ball.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="202" data-original-width="344" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwJaMUpCUnYHwR27kVoJutLYBLTLh3Ymz1d_9aOiVGqLQNuDZhoZgfrWkQdYUCAibyz3DbRuBSZkoILGPY4zQo_-MXSLh0MFo8PAt8xrsEDVAZQ_IqC2nIym6wcpu62cAH8LIR77v8qsfh/s1600/Kobayashi-bowling-ball.jpg" /></a></div>
Since I can't read Japanese, I'm very limited in my understanding of what the package says. So these micro-bowling balls might actually be micro-whiffle balls.<span id="goog_782248867"></span><br />
<br />
Seriously, apparently, charcoal toothpastes are all the rage in Japan, at the moment, according to my friend Katrissa. (She very kindly brought me the paste from Japan, where she was visiting relatives... thanks, Katrissa!)<br />
<br />
I do enjoy the flavor. It's very hard to categorize. If I were versant with wine terminology, I could perhaps describe it better. But since I'm not, here's a lay perspective: fresh, not sweet, slightly medicinal and definitely not artificial tasting.<br />
<br />
The website is completely in Japanese, just like the toothpaste package. (The only words in English on the package are the website address, "Made in Japan" and the word toothpaste.)<br />
<br />
Google did an interesting job of translating Japanese on the <a href="https://www.kobayashi.co.jp/" target="_blank">Kobayashi website</a>, rendering phrases such as, "Please be aware of suspicious emails wearing our company."<br />
<br />
I was able to find a <a href="https://www.kobayashi.com.hk/en/aproduct/charclean_charcoal_toothpaste/" target="_blank">Chinese English website from Hong Kong</a> that describes the toothpaste... "There are numerous pores on the charcoal particles which effectively attach and remove plaque to whiten and brighten your teeth." (Aaah, much better.)<br />
<br />
So if you are able to find a charcoal toothpaste in your town, give it a go!paulmerrillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03555284589007691780noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-799762931546951446.post-31729543915122750492017-05-21T12:35:00.000-06:002017-05-21T12:35:54.450-06:00Pasta del Capitano Toothpaste<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfVEtHzTdcKt9grlxCKFAmTjUnnrIlP8Rku0Lx2OtfqD4aEWaiBzFQnV9zgyqpRdAzTVa7RBkzrwrqx3W530DsRv-TayGQHhOYd3ewj59X5lHeWYD_dRvx9f70NHtzA0YFwyqNC-1rAxKa/s1600/pasta-del-capitano-toothpaste.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfVEtHzTdcKt9grlxCKFAmTjUnnrIlP8Rku0Lx2OtfqD4aEWaiBzFQnV9zgyqpRdAzTVa7RBkzrwrqx3W530DsRv-TayGQHhOYd3ewj59X5lHeWYD_dRvx9f70NHtzA0YFwyqNC-1rAxKa/s1600/pasta-del-capitano-toothpaste.jpg" /></a></div>
Pasta del Capitano <i>Placca e Carie </i>(plaque and cavitives) is a mild white minty paste from Milan, Italy.<br />
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The <a href="http://pastadelcapitano.it/en/" target="_blank">manufacturer's website</a> handily translated automatically into English, and the translators were above average.<br />
<br />
The package - less so. In their instructions: "The Period After Opening is expressed in months and concerns the product correctly kept and in normal, foreseeable usage conditions." (The caps are theirs.)<br />
<br />
<a href="http://ciccarelli.it/" target="_blank">Farmaceutici Dott. Ciccarelli s.p.a.</a> makes more than just toothpaste... makeup, for example - see this 10-second <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XBSGkDzBt0g" target="_blank">television commercial</a>. Their history dates back to 1821. (Match that, Colgate Palmolive!)<br />
<br />
The toothpaste itself has a refreshing mild mint flavor. Unlike most American toothpaste, there is no strong aftertaste.<br />
<br />
The packaging prominently boasts of the organic origins of the mint used. Thanks to the integral sodium fluoride, this is a paste that I would not hesitate to use every day. And it was a very affordable 1.40 euro (about $1.60). I picked up a tube at Iper Orvea (think Walmart) in Affi, Italy. But since I won't be going back there anytime soon, I might not get a refill.<br />
<br />
If you're an American who is dying to try this toothpaste, check out <a href="https://www.italianbarber.com/products/pasta-del-capitano-protective-officinal-herbs-toothpaste" target="_blank">Italian Barber</a>. (They stock not the same variety - but at least the same brand). They ship to the US and Canada.paulmerrillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03555284589007691780noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-799762931546951446.post-89526291388535020772017-03-25T14:00:00.000-06:002017-03-25T16:31:28.841-06:00Marvis Toothpaste from Italy<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHrar1rEsuaugvwWPdXPl-1XR7ALj1MoUBxTKSJIVFRY5FzT0tX3lBfb18uakqkS763tLMzCrd0IrV4kGMS_2alRE8UNV9aNEq0lnMsfqLuLdcKmcxkJ3tQOSwqIoNPY6e-S9McYVvKP4l/s1600/marvis.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHrar1rEsuaugvwWPdXPl-1XR7ALj1MoUBxTKSJIVFRY5FzT0tX3lBfb18uakqkS763tLMzCrd0IrV4kGMS_2alRE8UNV9aNEq0lnMsfqLuLdcKmcxkJ3tQOSwqIoNPY6e-S9McYVvKP4l/s1600/marvis.jpg" /></a></div>
Marvis is one of the most luxurious toothpastes available today.<br />
<br />
You might be wondering what makes a toothpaste luxurious. There are several factors:<br />
<br />
<ol>
<li>Elegant packaging</li>
<li>Subtle smooth taste</li>
<li>Fewer ingredients than many toothpastes (less is more these days)</li>
<li>Expensive price of entry</li>
<li>Delivered in small portions, like caviar</li>
</ol>
<div>
Marvis does not miss a single point.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I have the pleasure of owning and using both the "Aquatic Mint" and "Whitening Mint" flavors.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b>Aquatic Mint </b>is my favorite of the two. It ranks among the best tasting toothpastes of all time. It's super smooth, clean, refreshing and worth keeping in my mouth longer than usual.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b>Whitening Mint </b>is stronger. I have not used it long enough to report on its whitening effects. My guess is that my teeth are so far gone from years of coffee drinking that they are beyond help.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Both toothpastes are smooth pure white in color.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
The boxes feature translations in nine different languages. Clearly, Marvis has a reach far beyond Italy.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
There are several other flavors available if you visit the <a href="http://www.marvismint.com/" target="_blank">Marvis website</a>. For those of you who live in the USA, Dermstore has <a href="http://www.dermstore.com/profile_Marvis_502458.htm" target="_blank">all of them</a>. If you live in Italy, your local <i class="">farmacia</i> might have a few to choose from - and probably at less cost than Dermastore charges.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I loved the copy from their website so much that I'll quote it here. You might guess that the original writers do not possess English as their mother tongue.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<br />
<div>
<i>Marvis has revolutionized the concept of toothpaste giving it a multi-faceted, modern interpretation and an extraordinary appeal. The breakthrough collection boasts 7 masterpieces of taste: real, original temptations that conquer at the first sampling.</i></div>
<div>
<div>
<i><br /></i></div>
<div>
<i>Original, aromatic mixtures provide new, exquisite sensations that transform a simple daily gesture into a moment of pure pleasure. This evolution is based on a traditional processing method that guarantees a dense, compact texture, the maximum protection, an unmistakably fresh sensation and an extraordinary whitening effect.</i></div>
<div>
<i><br /></i></div>
<div>
<i>Marvis stands out on account of its trendy image with an increasingly up-to-date, original and ironic flavor, inspired by the art and fashion worlds, capable of capturing and involving a spellbound public, who is curious and open-minded.</i></div>
<div>
<i><br /></i></div>
<div>
<i>Marvis is a stunning pleasure, a sensation of permanent wellbeing, an unbeatable smile.</i></div>
<div>
<i><br /></i></div>
<div>
<i>Taste the contemporary toothpaste.</i></div>
</div>
<div>
<i><br /></i></div>
<div>
I must say that since using Marvis, I have had a permanent sensation of wellbeing.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Maybe not.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
- -</div>
<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Finally, very special thanks to my the patron of my Marvis experience - my brother Bill.</div>
paulmerrillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03555284589007691780noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-799762931546951446.post-13643809401672697372017-02-13T20:00:00.001-07:002017-02-13T20:00:47.139-07:00Dabur Red Toothpaste Review<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimfT5GJh4dJxn4TLWdkARronfOduD1_Jom-T-vlEL6o7dg3tzlY3zeWiJ2mz0-F1EUSfHvkqhhtybBbq7QrW1p08r_k4XL7hokw23tWbl4fsTSIv8PQcTi531rcakiiWqQ-q0q7qT7m66T/s1600/dabur-red-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="202" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimfT5GJh4dJxn4TLWdkARronfOduD1_Jom-T-vlEL6o7dg3tzlY3zeWiJ2mz0-F1EUSfHvkqhhtybBbq7QrW1p08r_k4XL7hokw23tWbl4fsTSIv8PQcTi531rcakiiWqQ-q0q7qT7m66T/s400/dabur-red-1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
Not for the faint of heart!<br />
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This paste has a very strong flavor - cloves with a hint of mint. The flavor is so powerful that it lingers in my mouth a full ten minutes after brushing.<br />
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Interestingly, it seems to be packaged for family use, judging by the smiling family photo on both the tube and box.<br />
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Dabur Red came in a large box containing a 200 g tube (7.2 oz) and a bonus translucent purple toothbrush - labeled Binaca. Americans will know Bianca as a brand of breath spray. In India, it's a toothpaste brand, manufactured by Dabur, the company that made this red toothpaste. Or I should say <b>Red</b> toothpaste.<br />
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Our friends that curated a post on <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Binaca_(brand)" target="_blank">Binaca over at Wikipedia</a> also identify Binaca as an undergarment brand that is marketed in India and owned by Kiran Textiles.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgamYdsybIJdYPnGGzJol_zD9lDJht1jcLD3ZwR9gnYC38b0Lx1ql-t1pWKZ8-d-Q1GweVAWWPXEl0D8j_i2bL8yUGPDz8Rru7w1ihnODeK-ku7aQwtQTS6wg_glVqE6eUTM3pK97ffSLAh/s1600/dabur-red-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="292" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgamYdsybIJdYPnGGzJol_zD9lDJht1jcLD3ZwR9gnYC38b0Lx1ql-t1pWKZ8-d-Q1GweVAWWPXEl0D8j_i2bL8yUGPDz8Rru7w1ihnODeK-ku7aQwtQTS6wg_glVqE6eUTM3pK97ffSLAh/s320/dabur-red-2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
As you can see, the paste has a light brick-red color - quite a bit less saturated than the packaging seems to indicate. But that's good - the package's bright color red would not seem as healthy as the more natural red of the paste.<br />
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<a href="http://www.dabur.com/" target="_blank">Dabur</a> is a very large Indian company that is even listed on the India Stock Exchange. I've reviewed <a href="https://internationaltoothpastemuseum.blogspot.com/search?q=dabur" target="_blank">several of their toothpastes</a>, as they are widely available around the world. I bought this tube at <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/India+Bazaar/@32.9240286,-96.9537516,17240m/data=!3m1!1e3!4m8!1m2!2m1!1sindian+supermarket,+irving,+tx!3m4!1s0x0:0xfea14f1952ece36e!8m2!3d32.923402!4d-96.9535947!6m1!1e1" target="_blank">Indian Bazaar</a> in Irving, Texas, which is conveniently located near my sister's house.<br />
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Another fascinating thing about the package is that it does not tout any health benefits for using the toothpaste. Visiting the <a href="http://www.dabur.com/in/en-us/products/dabur-red-paste" target="_blank">Red Paste page</a> on the Dabur website provides a bit more information, such as how the ingredient Pudina Satva helps prevent bad breath and toothaches.<br />
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I asked my daughter Rachel to try Dabur Red: "It tastes like India. It tastes like culture."paulmerrillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03555284589007691780noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-799762931546951446.post-9830407632473078632016-11-21T16:59:00.001-07:002016-11-21T16:59:21.402-07:00Naturado Pampelmousse Toothpaste<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXa_Qf_PqTwqCO0SKDBhcX1Ej6fUwIwHfncjkkmuek-tM7QbmHUrGUxpXhXNeG9CVmzwW1voT78cqA2A6TETQA_-HWL_MbJe9kpk63LrejbUwV5ZV1gntHErns1GreMeCPKgo6G9PTL9Qp/s1600/Naturado-Pampelmousse.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXa_Qf_PqTwqCO0SKDBhcX1Ej6fUwIwHfncjkkmuek-tM7QbmHUrGUxpXhXNeG9CVmzwW1voT78cqA2A6TETQA_-HWL_MbJe9kpk63LrejbUwV5ZV1gntHErns1GreMeCPKgo6G9PTL9Qp/s1600/Naturado-Pampelmousse.jpg" /></a></div>
Yes, Grapefruit toothpaste from France.<br />
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Surprisingly, it has a very subtle flavor - grapefruit is almost hard to detect. The taste is fresh and clean - as a toothpaste should be!<br />
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<a href="http://www.provence-argile.com/" target="_blank">Provence Argile</a> is the creator of this lovely paste. They also manufacture a wide variety of health and beauty products.<br />
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Not only does this toothpaste taste good, it is healthy - and organic - 99.4% of the ingredients are natural. (Of course, I wondered what ingredient was <i>not</i> natural.)<br />
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The container is a handy stand-up plastic dispenser, which is helpful for conserving space in small European washrooms. (In the States, we would say, "bathrooms.")<br />
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The consistency is very natural - lightly transparent with a touch of orange color.<br />
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As you might expect, flouride is not on the list of ingredients, so it will not become my main daily paste. (But as some readers know, I am not restricted to flouride pastes - I always have at least three toothpastes on tap.)<br />
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I love that it's not too sweet, since it was not designed for American tastes. (My taste is not the typical American's.)<br />
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<i>Special thanks to my sister Amy, who gifted me with this wonderful different paste.</i>paulmerrillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03555284589007691780noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-799762931546951446.post-52770465053147932212016-07-31T11:58:00.000-06:002017-02-05T16:57:11.516-07:00Neem & Pomegranate ToothpasteThis is my favorite toothpaste box of all time.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifNJDIEM1dU7C8ELgbCM5uXt2kKMW0lq61gyi0QYkgT_M1RMEjOaHongQ8b9oJcm4472gvV4BbIIcSDw38LXrAwqZ5MMWFARwIrjmsWpTTpyAMmx2-Ol353AVXKqYbWR0ibxU1pX5jSJv6/s1600/neem-pomegranate-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifNJDIEM1dU7C8ELgbCM5uXt2kKMW0lq61gyi0QYkgT_M1RMEjOaHongQ8b9oJcm4472gvV4BbIIcSDw38LXrAwqZ5MMWFARwIrjmsWpTTpyAMmx2-Ol353AVXKqYbWR0ibxU1pX5jSJv6/s1600/neem-pomegranate-2.jpg" /></a></div>
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<b><i>Organique</i></b> is a special brand of Himalaya Herbal Healthcare, which is based in India. Neem & Pomegranate is a refreshing and healthy toothpaste that is sadly not available everywhere. (My sister Amy sent it to me from Belgium - thanks Amy!)<br />
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In the USA, you can buy it via the <a href="http://www.himalayausa.com/products/oral-care/original-neem-pomegranate-toothpaste" target="_blank">Himalaya Herbal Healthcare website</a>. After I discovered that, I'm now motivated to try some of their other flavors.<br />
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I've reviewed a <a href="http://internationaltoothpastemuseum.blogspot.com/2015/04/active-fresh-toothpaste-from-nepal.html" target="_blank">more standard offering</a> from Himalaya Herbal Healthcare, which was good but not nearly as distinct and unique as their Neem & Pomegranate. I'd guess that <i>Organique</i> is a boutique line of toothpastes for Himalaya Herbal - kind of like Lexus is to Toyota.<br />
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Back to the toothpaste - it's off-white colored (no dyes) and left my mouth feeling very clean. The pomegranate aspect of the flavor was very subtle - adding just a tiny touch of sweetness. Using the language of modern toothpaste, mint is the primary flavor.<br />
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<a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Azadirachta_indica" target="_blank">Neem</a> is reputedly the cure for all manner of ills. It seems to be the center of a <a href="http://www.discoverneem.com/neem-leaf.html" target="_blank">majority of Ayurvedic products</a>. (Ayurvedic medicine is one of the world's oldest holistic [whole-body] healing systems.) I can't vouch for the validity of its effects, but I do like the taste! Being the curator of the International Toothpaste Museum means that I can rarely give one paste several months' of devotion - or in this case, I might start to feel its positive effects.<br />
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Back to the box - besides making the product enticing, it serves as a voice for Himalaya Herbal approach to green manufacturing - it's made with 100% recycled material, is chlorine-free and was printed with soy-based inks. I almost wanted to take a bite. And it's one of the very few boxes that will reside in the museum's permanent collection. (I usually recycle the boxes.)paulmerrillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03555284589007691780noreply@blogger.com0