Essential Oils

Have you heard the buzz associated with essential oils lately? We have noticed a sharp increase in individuals interested in the therapeutic and recreational abilities of these ancient oils. Popular uses for essential oils include: mood changing aromatherapy, homemade cleaners, personal care products, and therapeutic balms. Even though the concept is new to many, essential oils have been used for centuries to treat mood issues and lift spirits naturally. Aromatherapy oils are harvested directly from their natural sources. When these natural extracts are added to water and vaporized through a diffuser, they can inspire, energize, soothe, and encourage wellness and peace of mind.

A Quick Look at Essential Oils

• The use of essential oils as fragrances dates back almost 6,000 years, and they’ve been used by a variety of cultures and ethnicities.
• Essential oils are still used for therapeutic, hygienic, spiritual, and ritualistic purposes in many cultures today.
• Essential oils are primarily used in therapeutic settings to help achieve a positive mood and bring about relaxation. Studies indicate that certain essential oils may help with the occasional stress and anxiety associated with everyday life.
• Almost anyone can enjoy the benefits of aromatherapy oil, but pregnant women, persons with allergies, and those with respiratory issues should only do so under the guidance of a trained professional.
• Keep in mind that essential oils are highly concentrated botanical extracts that should never be ingested or applied to skin at full strength.
• Consult a healthcare professional, not just a salesperson, for advice on how to use these powerful oils.

Aromatherapy

In order to effectively use essential oils for aromatherapy, a diffuser must be utilized. An oil diffuser will transmit the benefits of the oil across a room or throughout an entire house. The best diffusers use an ultrasonic method, instead of heat, so the diffuser can maintain the integrity of the essential oil and its holistic properties. A diffuser is perfect for daily use and is a healthy alternative to synthetic room fresheners and scented candles.

Adding a few drops of cinnamon will help get you going in the morning. Lavender will help you relax at night. And vanilla might get you into a romantic mood. You can also combine more essential oils to make an interesting aroma blend.

Energizing Summer Fun Recipe
1 drop each of lavender, peppermint, and grapefruit oils
Add each drop of the oils into a diffuser and let the refreshing smell fill the room or office space.

Essential Oil Recipes for Skin Care
Essential oils are easily combined with beauty supply materials to make wonderful personal care products. Here are a few of our favorites:

Cleansing Skin Mask
3 TBS of European clay (from a beauty store)
4-5 TBS water
3 drops of Tea Tree Oil
2 drops of Lavender Oil
Mix ingredients together in a bowl to a creamy paste. Apply to face and neck area. Allow 10-15 minutes to dry, then rinse off with warm water and apply moisturizer. Avoid sensitive areas and use 1-2 times weekly as needed. NOT intended for internal use.

Foot Scrub Blend
2 TBS sea salt
2 TBS Jojoba or Almond Oil
2 drops Peppermint
1 drop Rosemary1 drop Lavender
Mix all ingredients in a bowl and massage into each foot for 1-2 minutes.
Rinse off with warm water and discard any leftover product.

Essential Oil Recipes for Health and Wellness

Headache Relief Compress
3 drops of Peppermint Oil
3 drops of Lavender Oil
3 drops of Chamomile Oil
2 cups of warm or cool water
Mix ingredients together in a glass bowl. Wet and ring out a washcloth. Apply to forehead while lying down and repeat as needed.

Sore/Achy Muscle Bath
1 cup Epsom Salt
½ cup Sea Salt
Very warm bath water
5 drops Eucalyptus
5 drops Rosemary
While filling bathtub to desired level (at least 2/3 full,) add Epsom Salt and Sea Salt. Add the essential oil blends listed when filling is almost complete.

Basic Cold and Flu Chest Rub
1 drop of NOW Lemon Oil
2 drops of NOW Eucalyptus Oil
1 drop of NOW Rosemary
1 TBS Almond Oil
Add ingredients together in a glass bowl and apply to chest and neck area. May also apply to forehead, cheekbone, and nose areas. Discontinue use if irritation occurs.

What if you are interested in romance? How can you set the mood if your spouse is not in the mood? Try this blend in your diffuser and place the diffuser near your bed.

Romance Blend
2 drops Ylang Ylang Oil
2 drops Chamomile Oil
For More recipes, including household cleaners, visit our facebook page. Essential oils are not a cure-all. But they can be utilized as a natural remedy for common ailments.

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