~~So what is it?~~

It is a temple rub using essential oils as the active ingredients for a natural, gentle sleep aid. The idea is that you smooth a small amount over your temples or other pulse points, lay back and let the wonderfully fragrant oils do their magic.

~~The packaging~~

This was definitely a selling point for me. The balm comes in a lovely retro looking tin. The lid has a picture of a badger taking a snooze, the back has information about the company and the ingredients. The lid is fairly easy to remove although those who have weak hands or artritic conditions may struggle slightly.

~~Is it ethical?~~

Firstly it is certified organic by the USDA - this is a good start as organic farming methods are a lot less harmful to local wildlife and the eco-system of the planet in general.

The packaging is purely metal so I believe it is 100% recyclable once empty. As most people nowadays have access to recycling facilities, this is another plus point.

I realise there is little room on the small tin to give much information so I visited their website badgerbalm.bathandunwind.com to see what else I could discover. And yes, they did not fail to impress!

Badger do not test on animals, they are always 100% natural, and they never use "chemicals, synthetics, GMO's, parabens, toxic preservatives or any of the other bad stuff that you've read so much about."

I think after visiting the website I will be investigating more of their products in future!

~~Price?~~

There are two sizes available on the website, 0.75oz for £4.49 and 2oz for £7.49. Although this may sound expensive, a little goes a long way, and this little tin has lasted much longer than the average pack of sleeping tablets would.

~~The texture...~~

The texture is quite hard to start with, but once you push hard enough to break the surface, it is similar to petroleum jelly but without the greasiness. A small amount is all you need to smooth over pulse points and it glides smoothly across the skin.

~~The smell.~~

The scent of the balm is not too aggressive and would not interfere with other perfumes you may be wearing, you can just smell it in the background. I have always been a fan of lavender ever since I was little and as for bergamot - well, I love Earl Grey tea, say no more!

~~Does it work though?!~~

Yes! I have nights where I am feeling really hyperactive where I feel the need to do the housework late at night or just read and read until exhaustion sets in. When I think that kind of night is going to happen, I now have a long bath and use the badger balm about 10 minutes before getting into bed. It definitely calms me down, as I find myself staying in bed and reading far less before dropping off without being exhausted.