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Top Essential Oils for Anxiety

2/2/2017

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Anxiety is a tough battle to face, which makes having a natural solution such as an essential oil blend significant for deterring symptoms of anxiety and stress.
 
The 2014 research by American College of Healthcare Sciences gave 58 hospice patients hand massages once a day for one week with an essential oil blend consisting of equal ratios of Bergamot, Frankincense and Lavender in 1.5 percent dilution with sweet almond oil. All patients who received the aromatherapy hand massage reported less pain and depression. The study concluded that aromatherapy massage with this essential oil blend is more effective for pain and depression management than massage alone.

* Chang, S.Y. (2008). Effects of aroma hand massage on pain, state anxiety and depression in hospice patients with terminal cancer. Taehan Kanho Hakhoe Chi., 38(4):493-502.
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Top 7 Essential Oils to calm Anxiety

Here are some of the best essentials oils for anxiety:           
 
1. Bergamot (Citrus bergamia)
With its distinctive floral taste and aroma, on one hand Bergamot oil is calming and often used to decrease feelings of depression by providing energy. On the other, it can also help with insomnia induce relaxation and reduce agitation. Applying Bergamot essential oils inducing feelings of being “more calm” and “more relaxed.” 

2. Chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile)
Long known for its support to benefit inner harmony, Chamomile has been used in teas and tinctures.  Like the peaceful, calming scent of the tea, Chamomile essential oil have been shown to ease anxiety symptoms, while also decreasing irritability, overthinking, anxiousness and worry. Interestingly, a study  conducted at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine found that Chamomile oil “may provide clinically meaningful antidepressant activity that occurs in addition to its previously observed anxiolytic activity.”

3. Frankincense (Boswellia carteri or boswella sacra)
Frankincense is great for easing depression and anxiety because it provides a calming and tranquil energy as well as spiritual grounding. In aromatherapy, it helps deepen meditation and quiet the mind. Combines with Bergamot and Lavender essential oils, Frankincense has been found o have a positive effect on reducing pain symptoms and depression. Many studies have shown how Frankincense produces changes in the brain chemistry, and produces feelings of comfort and happiness.

4. Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia)
A most common essential oil, lavender benefits include having a calming, relaxing effect. Lavender helps with inner peace, sleep, restlessness, irritability, panic attacks, nervous stomach and general nervous tension, and is considered to be restorative for the nervous system.

5. Rose (Rosa damascena)
Like the flower it comes from, Rose essential oil is settling to the emotional heart and perhaps the second most popular after lavender for relieving anxiety and depression. In this way, Rose essential oil is helpful for panic attacks, grieving and shock.

6. Vetiver (Vetiveria zizanioides)
Ahh, Vetiver oil has a tranquil, grounding and reassuring energy. A favorite for many, its often used after traumatic experiences, helping with self-awareness, calmness and stabilization. As a nervous system tonic, it decreases jitteriness and hypersensitivity and is also useful in panic attacks and shock syndromes.  

7. Ylang Ylang (Cananga odorata)
Ylang Ylang's calming and uplifting effects helps with increasing cheerfulness, courage, optimism and soothes fearfulness. It is considered calming for heart agitation and nervous palpitations. Moreover, it is a moderately strong sedative that may help with insomnia.

RESOURCE: http://info.achs.edu/blog/depression-and-anxiety-can-essential-oils-help

Roller Bottle Recipes

INSTRUCTIONS: Add the essential oil blend to a roller bottle and top off with your favorite carrier oil.
USE: Apply around nose, on neck, on back of neck, and on chest 2-4 times daily.
Anxiety Blend
  • 5 drops Balance
  • 5 drops Serenity
  • 8 drops Peace & Calming
Lift & Calm Blend
  • 3 drops Sandlewood
  • 3 drops Cypress
  • 3 drops Ylang Ylang
  • 3 drops Bergamot
  • 3 drops Black Pepper
Kick Anxiety & Depression
  • ​5 drops Valor
  • 5 drops Joy
  • 5 drops Harmony
  • ​5 drops Stress Away
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Thanksgiving Dinner Recipes infused with essential oils

11/17/2016

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Essential oils have been used for thousands of years, even before the pilgrims landed on the tip of Cape Cod, and before the closing celebration of a great harvest. Even though our Thanksgiving holiday isn't exactly how it used to be with Pilgrims and Indians sitting around a table in Plymouth, it sure is an awesome holiday to gather with friends and family in thanks, to enjoy a game of flag football and a traditional meal with loved ones. Turkey, mashed potatoes, green beens, cranberry sauce, pumpkin pie and essential oils - count me in!  Here are some easy, fun and delicious recipes to share for the holidays... 
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Fall's Favorite - Pumpkin Pie Recipe for Thanksgiving

11/3/2016

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Pumpkin pie has always been one of my absolute favorites! With Halloween behind us and Thanksgiving ahead, I thought to include a combination of essential oils in one of my favorite fall recipes. My pumpkin pie infused with essential oils to deepen the flavor turned out awesome! And the oils added a kick of health benefits. You've got to try this!
Pumpkin Pie Recipe with Essential Oils

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Health Benefits of Nutmeg Essential Oils

  • Assists digestive problems
  • Acts as a tonic to the brain and mind
  • Alleviates pain and inflammation
  • Serves as a natural sleeping aid
  • Protecting the teeth from bacterial problems
  • Menstrual Cramps
  • Indigestion
  • Blood Circulation

Benefits of Clove Essential Oil

Health Benefits of Clove Essential Oils

  • Anti-microbial 
  • Eliminates acne
  • Kills parasites
  • Improves blood circulation
  • Reduces gum disease
  • Boosts energy
  • Natural anti-inflammatory
  • Kills mold and fungus

Benefits of Cardamon Essential Oil

Health Benefits of Cardamom Essential Oils

  • Antispasmodic
  • Antiseptic
  • Antimicrobial
  • Digestive & Stomachic
  • Stimulant
  • Diuretic
  • Aphrodisiac
  • Warming: Cardamom oil has a warming effect

Cinnamon Bark Essential Oil Benefits

Health Benefits of Cinnamon Bark Essential Oils

  • Decreases inflammation
  • Increases circulation
  • Fights viruses
  • Fights free radicals
  • Relieves depression
  • Stimulates the immune system
  • Stimulates libido
  • Fights parasites

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Health Benefits of Ginger Essential Oils

  • Helps Upset Stomach and Supports Digestion
  • Heals Infections
  • Aids Respiratory Problems
  • Reduces Inflammation
  • Strengthens Heart Health
  • High Levels of Antioxidants
  • Natural Aphrodisiac
  • Relieves Anxiety
How do essential oils benefit health?
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Orange Essential Oil Health Benefits

8/10/2016

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The health benefits of Orange Essential Oil can be attributed to its properties like anti inflammatory, anti depressant, anti spasmodic, anti septic, aphrodisiac, carminative, diuretic, tonic, sedative and cholagogue.
 
This essential oil is obtained from the peels of orange by cold compression. Although all of you know oranges very well, you may not know it by its botanical name, Citrus Sinensis.The main components of this oil are Alpha Pinene, Citronellal, Geranial, Sabinene, Myrcene, Limonene, Linalool and Neral.
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Essential oil of orange has a wide variety of domestic, industrial and medicinal uses.
 
Domestically: used to add orange flavor to beverages, desserts and sweetmeats.
 
Industrially: used in soaps, body lotions, creams, anti mark and wrinkle lifting applications, concentrates for soft beverages, room fresheners, sprays, deodorants, biscuits, chocolates, confectionary and bakery items and many more uses.
 
Medicinal uses:
Anti Inflammatory: It gives quick and effective relief from inflammations, internal or external and caused by any reason such as over intake of spices, fever, infections, side effects of antibiotics, gas, ingestion of toxic substances, narcotics etc.
 
Anti Depressant: The very smell of it reminds you of the happy moments and brings happy thoughts to mind. That is why it is very much used in aromatherapy. This gives a happy, relaxed feeling and works as a mood lifter.
 
Anti Spasmodic: Spasm can give rise to a lot of problems such as continuous coughs, convulsions, cramps in muscles and extreme diarrhea. To avoid them, spasm must be cured early. This can be done with the help of Orange Essential Oil which relaxes the muscular and nervous spasm and gives relief from the problems discussed above.
 
Aphrodisiac: It has mild aphrodisiac properties, if not strong. Systematic and regular use can cure problems such as frigidity, erectile problems, impotence, loss of interest in sex etc.
 
Anti Septic: Wherever there is a cut or abrasion, there is the fear of the wound getting septic bacterial infection. More so when it is from an iron object. The worry is doubled as there remains a chance of it might getting infected by tetanus germs. Essential Oil of Orange might help us avoid both septic and tetanus as it inhibits microbial growth and disinfects the wounds.
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Carminative: Being a carminative means being an agent that helps removal of gases from the intestines. Gas, forming in intestines and pushing upwards, can be very troublesome. Gas, being lighter, moves upwards and punches the internal organs, gives chest pains, indigestion and uneasiness, raises blood pressure, can risk your heart and gives acute stomach aches. Essential Oil of Orange can help you a lot in this respect. It relaxes the abdominal and anal muscles and let the gases escape. Further, it does not let gases form too. Orange Oil is very good for those who are suffering from chronic gas trouble.
 
Diuretic: You got rid of gases. Now it’s your turn to get rid of the toxins. Again, the remedy is the same. The good old Orange Oil can here too. It promotes urination to make the toxins like uric acid, bile, excess salts, pollutants and excess water thrown out of the body with urine. Urination increases appetite and promotes digestion. It contributes towards losing fats and is good for the heart too.
 
Tonic: The relation of a tonic to the body is quite similar to overhauling and servicing to vehicle. A tonic tones up every system functioning in the body, keeps the metabolic system in proper shape, gives strength and boosts immunity.
 
Sedative: When you need to cool down after a bad day at the office or suffering from inflammation, you need a sedative to let you relax. The artificial sedatives or drugs available in the market are mostly tranquilizers based on narcotics such as opium and synthetic. These, in the long run, do immense damage to heart and internal organs. Better to follow a natural one like this Orange Oil. It gives relief from anxiety, anger, depression and inflammations.
 
Cholagogue: It promotes secretions from all glands, exocrine or endocrine. Thus it is seen to promote menstruations, flow of milk from breasts, digestive juices and bile, hormones and enzymes.
 
Other Benefits: Orange Essential Oil serves as a detoxifier, boosts immunity, treats constipation and dyspepsia and is very good for maintaining a healthy, smooth and glamorous skin. It also helps cure acne and dermatitis.
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Frankincense - essential Oil of the week!

7/27/2016

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What is Frankincense?

Frankincense is the dried sap of trees in the Boswellia genus, particularly Boswellia sacra. These trees grow in Oman, Yemen and the Horn of Africa, including Somalia and Ethiopia. When dried, the sap is burned as incense and thought to have several medicinal properties.

Frankincense, sometimes referred to as olibanum, is a common type of essential oil used in aromatherapy that can offer a variety of health benefits: helping relieve chronic stress and anxiety, reducing pain and inflammation, boosting immunity and even fighting cancer.

Many know of Frankincense as one of the plant-derived treasures, along with myrrh, given to the newborn Jesus in the New Testament. Its use in a religious context goes beyond Christianity, however. According to the Hebrew Bible, frankincense and myrrh were components of the holy incense ritually burned in Jerusalem’s sacred temples during ancient times.

Harvests are done at various times and the more opaque resins are considered to be the best quality. Gary Young shares his knowledge, and tells us his experience harvesting Frankincense in this video below...

22 Powerful Uses of Frankincense for Supporting Wellness, Health, and Healing

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1. Heal wounds from cuts, scrapes, and burns.  For even greater benefit, apply Lavender essential oil first then layer Frankincense on top.  The combination of these two oils together is amazing when it comes to healing wounds.

2. Reduce and fade scars.  Continue use after the wound has healed to reduce and fade scarring.

3. Relieve the symptoms of gout.  Mixed 50/50 with a carrier oil, Frankincense has been known to relieve the painful symptoms of gout.  Apply frank and coconut oil 4 times daily, the pain was all but gone within three days.

4. Foster strong immune system.  The antiseptic properties of Frankincense make it ideal for supporting a strong immune system.  Massage a few drops into the balls of your feet every day.  In addition, try diffusing it throughout your home and especially in the bedroom at night.  This is especially good during cold and flu season.

5. Stress and anxiety management.  Apply a drop at the temples to relieve stress and evoke a feeling of calmness.  You can also rub a few drops mixed in a carrier oil on the back of the neck when you feel anxious. Inhaling the oils produces a feeling of calmness; you can simply inhale the aroma by rubbing a drop or two between the palms of your hands then bringing them up to your nose and taking several deep breaths.

6. Mitigate depression and feelings of helplessness. Apply a few drops to the back of the neck (especially around the brain stem, at the base of your skull at your hair-line) two or more times daily.

7. Anti-aging. No one wants to look old. Fine lines and wrinkles become less noticeable after applying Frank over them. Blend Frank with a carrier oil (fractionated coconut oil, sweet almond oil) at a 50:50 ratio in a glass roller ball and apply over the affected area... even on age spots. You can also add a drop of Frank to your daily moisturizer.

8. Replacement for NSAIDS/Advil. Frankincense is a powerful anti-Inflammatory and can be used to relieve conditions where pain and inflammation are present, such as achy joints and muscles.

9. Colds and congestion.  Put up to six drops in a diffuser, then breathe in the vapors for at least five minutes. 

10. Relieve itching.  A single drop applied to the affected area will bring near instant relief of itching.

11. Relieve arthritis pain and swelling.  Mix with a carrier and rub onto aching joints at night before bed and throughout the day, every couple of hours.

12. Clear acne.  Apply one drop on stubborn spots of acne morning and night. 

13. Relaxation. Add 5 - 6 drops to a diffuser and breath in the oil to open the senses and create a calming atmosphere. Perfect for quiet meditation.

14. Remove moles, skin tags, and warts.  Apply a single drop 3 or 4 times a day until gone.  

15. Reduce swelling from insect bites.  A single drop dabbed on an insect bite will reduce the swelling and stop the itching.

16. Enhance vision. Research indicates that Frankincense improves vision and possibly strengthens night vision.  Apply Frankincense along the cheek bone and under your eyes, but please be careful not to get any oil in the eye itself.  It will burn if it gets in your eye. If that happens, apply a carrier oil such as coconut oil and wipe away with a clean dry cloth. After a few minutes the burning will stop.

17. Remove musty odors.  Diffuse 2-3 drops to offer a much fresher smell into a room. 

18. Restless leg syndrome. Apply 2 drops Frankincense with carrier oil to the bottom of each foot and massage each night to relieve restless leg syndrome.

19. Oral Health. Useful as preventative measure against oral health problems such as bad breath, toothaches, cavities, canker sores, and other infections. Try mixing with baking soda and coconut oil to make your own toothpaste.

20. Promote sleep and prevent insomnia. Diffuse frankincense at bedtime to help you slow down your breathing and relieve nervous tension and anxiety.  You will sleep like a puppy after a long walk!

21. Boost the healing power of homemade remedies and beauty products.  Add a few drops of Frankincense to your homemade salves, lip balms, and roller balls to boost the power of everything else! 

22. Enhance the efficacy of other essential oils. Yes, layering Frankincense over other essential oils enhances that oil’s properties and drives the oils deeper into the cells.  This layering will deliver amazing results for those times when you need to kick it up a notch. Consider combining Frank with Myrrh, as Myrrh will enhance the efficacy of Frank by four times!

Blending: Frankincense Oil blends well with Lime, Lemon, Orange and other Citrus oils as well as Benzoin, Bergamot, Lavender, Myrrh, Pine and Sandalwood oil.

​Let me know in the comments below how you use Frank and your experiences! I'm always curious to learn more and to hear about your creative applications and successes! Check out some of the resources below for more in-depth research about Frankincense.

Blessings! 

@drlp4
#FrankincenseIsMyFavorite #FrankincenseEssentialOil #BenefitsofFrankincense #essentialoilapplications #howtouseessentialoils
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References

  1. Moussaieff, Arieh; Rimmerman, Neta; Bregman, Tatiana; Straiker, Alex; Felder, Christian C.; Shoham, Shai; Kashman, Yoel; Huang, Susan M.; Lee, Hyosang; Shohami, Esther; Mackie, Ken; Caterina, Michael J.; Walker, J. Michael; Fride, Ester; Mechoulam, Raphael (August 2008). "Incensole acetate, an incense component, elicits psychoactivity by activating TRPV3 channels in the brain". The FASEB Journal 22 (8): 3024–3034. doi:10.1096/fj.07-101865. PMC 2493463. PMID 18492727.
  2. Moussaieff, A; Gross, M; Nesher, E; Tikhonov, T; Yadid, G; Pinhasov, A (2012). "Incensole acetate reduces depressive-like behavior and modulates hippocampal BDNF and CRF expression of submissive animals". J Psychopharmacol. 26 (12): 1584–93. doi:10.1177/0269881112458729. PMID 23015543.
  3. Drahl, Carmen (22 December 2008). "Frankincense And Myrrh". Chemical & Engineering News 86 (51): 38. doi:10.1021/cen-v086n051.p038. ISSN 0009-2347.
  4. "A double blind, randomized, placebo controlled study of the efficacy and safety of 5-Loxin for treatment of osteoarthritis of the knee". Arthritis Research & Therapy. Retrieved 2008-10-09.
  5. Frank, MB; Yang, Q; Osban, J; Azzarello, JT; Saban, MR; Saban, R; Ashley, RA; Welter, JC; Fung, KM; Lin, HK (2009). "Frankincense oil derived from Boswellia carteri induces tumor cell specific cytotoxicity.". BMC Complement Altern Med 9: 6. doi:10.1186/1472-6882-9-6. PMC 2664784. PMID 19296830.
  6. Skarke, Carsten; et al. (October 2012). "Increased bioavailability of 11-keto-β-boswellic acid following single oral dose frankincense extract administration after a standardized meal in healthy male volunteers: modeling and simulation considerations for evaluating drug exposures.". J Clin Pharmacol. 52 (10): 1592–1600. doi:10.1177/0091270011422811. PMID 22167571.
  7. Moussaieff, Arieh; Gross, Moshe; Nesher, Elimelech; Tikhonov, Tatiana; Yadid, Gal; Pinhasov, Albert (December 2012). "Incensole acetate reduces depressive-like behavior and modulates hippocampal BDNF and CRF expression of submissive animals". Journal of Psychopharmacology 26 (12): 1584–93. doi:10.1177/0269881112458729. PMID 23015543.
  8. "Olibanum.—Frankincense.". Henriette's Herbal Homepage. www.henriettes-herb.com. Retrieved 2009-01-14.
  9. "Farmacy Query". www.ars-grin.gov. Retrieved 2009-01-14.
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Essential Oils 101 Workshop - RSVP to reserve your seat!

7/5/2016

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RSVP via email to reserve your seat...
SUBJECT: Save my seat for EO 101 on Wed, July 13
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not a very well-known oil, but Coriander rocks!

5/31/2016

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You might attribute the health benefits of Coriander Essential Oil to its properties as an analgesic, aphrodisiac, antispasmodic, carminative, depurative, deodorant, digestive, fungicidal, lipolytic, stimulant and stomachic substance.
 
Its extracted from the seeds of coriander through steam distillation, and consists of compounds like Borneol, Cineole, Cymene, Dipentene, Linalool, Phellandrene, Pinene, Terpineol and Terpinolene – the principle components behind its medicinal properties.
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Coriander is famous worldwide as a spice for its digestive and stomachic properties. Yet the essential oil of this spice has other health benefits. Here are just a few benefits of coriander essential oil to consider:
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Aphrodisiac: It arouses and increases the libido, as well as cures temporary impotency, frigidity of both males and females, erectile dysfunctions, and general loss of interest in sex. It stimulates specific hormones and puts you in a frisky or playfully naughty mood.
 
Lipolytic: Want to lose weight? Pay attention to this property of coriander oil to stimulate lipolysis, meaning the breaking down of fats and cholesterol. The faster your lipolysis, the faster you get slim and lose fat. 
 
Carminative: provides the gases built up in your body a healthy outlet.
 
Depurative: cleanses your blood of toxins and thus acts as a detoxifier or blood purifier. It helps to remove regular toxins like uric acid, heavy metals and certain compounds and hormones produced by the body itself, as well as other foreign toxins. Great for sports recovery!
 
Analgesic: It reduces pain. This oil has been found to be effective for alleviating toothaches, headaches, joint and muscle pain, as well as those resulting from injuries or collisions. It reduces pain by desensitizing the affected area.
 
Deodorant: Like coriander, coriander oil is a good deodorant. It reduces bad breath and eliminates mouth and body odor when used either internally or externally. When consumed or ingested, the typical aroma of coriander oil mixes with sweat and fights body odor as well as oral odor coming up from your stomach, filling your mouth.
Want to learn more about therapeutic grade essential oils and their uses? Check this out...
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Benefits of Rosemary Essential Oil

5/12/2016

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Natural Solutions: No More Synthetic Chemical Pesticides

3/10/2016

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​More than 32 million pounds of household cleaning products are poured down the drain each day nationwide. The toxic substances found in many of these are not adequately removed by sewage treatment plants. 
​There are more natural ways to prevent pest. 


"Within 26 seconds after exposure to chemicals
such as cleaning products,
traces of these chemicals can be found
in every organ  in the body.” 
​
~ Environmental Heal Risks Affecting Your Children
Every homeowner dreams of weed-less, bug-free, perfectly manicured grass surrounding their suburban castle. A multibillion-dollar industry caters to this dream, offering a calibrated poisoning that keep the outdoor yard lush yet silently threatens the family’s health. Is it worth the risk?
 
I’m one of those people who LOVES a green lawn. I always have... odd as it sounds, as a kid, I’d ride my bike around the shoreline of Hyannis, MA and rate each yard I passed on a scale of 1-10, all the while dreaming of the day I had my own yard to tend. Sounds ridiculous. I had a creative, inquisitive young mind. Most every yard was between and 8 or 10, I mean they're all gorgeous. How could I one day have a lawn like that...?
 
If I rated my own yard on the standard I set as a child, I’d say it was about a 2 out of 10. Unacceptable in my book. It needed LOTS of work: more flower beds, stone bed boarders, stone walkways, flowers, perennials, herbs, roses, and more flowers and perennials...

I’ve never been more in tune with my garden than the past several years. After creating new beds with borders, I began growing veggies and herbs. When I ran out of space in the beds, I built wooden flower planters. I even made a wicking bed. While the flower beds looked nice, the grass was plagued with grubs: bare patches all over as if my lawn was balding. 
 
Well, two years ago I was contacted by the monster TrueGREEN.  A very nice elderly gentleman rang the doorbell asking if he could help me with my grass. I was already outside, and welcomed him into my garden. We toured the yard, I pointed out the problem areas I knew needed help, and he told me he could. He was very charming, and I took a liking to him.
 
When he told me he could get rid of all the weeds, and have my yard a plush 10, I immediately signed a full year contract with TrueGreen. I envisioned a bunch of people coming over, diligently on their knees pulling the weeds and tending to the bald areas with new seed. In my mind it was ideal! I knew the yard needed major help and I couldn’t do it all myself.
 
Welp, that’s not at all what happened. The guys in their big truck parked out front, drew a hose, and walked around the house spraying all sorts of who-knows-what all over the yard. Now, first let me say that it DID kill the weeds, though the dead weeds remained and I had to pull eventually bend over and  pull it out myself.
 
But worse was the fact that NONE of the flower, herb or veggie seeds I planted sprouted. Not a single one! After three treatments I cancelled my yearly plan and sacrificed my payment to them. I realized the chemicals were not the solution I was looking for. I still had to pull my weeds anyway, and that wasn’t what I had in mind.
 
I’m hard pressed to find a landscape service that actually would come to my house and pull weeds, the old fashion way I know that it best.
 
Two years after these three yard treatments, my doggie began developing tumors in his body. Though he is otherwise very healthy, he has several "lumps" under his chest and at the elbow of one of his front legs. Even with visits to the  Vet, we couldn't determine the cause. Until we found a bunch of research articles that suggests the chemicals in the yard could have affected him. Even long after the exposure. We believe the development of his tumors could be directly related to the chemicals used in our yard. Check out this article.
 
Since that experience with TrueGreen, we don't use anything toxic whatsoever in the yard. We use natural remedies to conquer the grubs, and pull the weeds manually. We’ve learned several great techniques of deterring pests from eating our plants and destroying our lawn. From companion planting to Microbial insecticides. Check out the suggestions below and see if they help you.

I wouldn't say I've achieved the heights of a 10-score for my yard, but I'm comfortable knowing I'm keeping my doggie and family safe by avoiding pesticides and toxic chemicals.
 
Another suggestion for preventing weeds from overtaking your yard is to pull your weeds early before they go to seed and spread throughout the yard.  Now’s the time, get out there! And let us know how your yard is coming along. Send us pictures! 
If you have pesticides at your house, disposing of them properly is important to protecting the environment. Here are a few resources. 

Managing pesticides: For detailed guidance on pesticide management see Guides to Pollution Prevention: Non-Agricultural Pesticide Users, United States Environmental Protection Agency, 1993, document EPA/625/R-93/009. This 58-page guide, which includes nine worksheets, is available from the National Center for Environmental Publications and Information, P.O. Box 42419, Cincinnati, OH 45242-2419. Fax: (513) 489-8695.
 
Protective Clothing When Using Pesticides: See BCERF Fact Sheet #21 on Avoiding Exposure to Household Pesticides: Protective Clothing that should be worn when using pesticides in home and garden.
 
Disposal: Call the manufacturer or contact your local government or sewage treatment facility. Also, many communities sponsor hazardous household products pick-up days. Check to see if containers are recyclable.


How to build a Wicking Bed...
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Clean surfaces without Harmful Toxins: Citrus Essential Oil Recipe

3/7/2016

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The Environmental Working Group (EWG) explains that commercial cleaning products can cause numerous health problems...  including asthma, allergies, chemical burns and even birth defects and cancer. Simply put, avoid poisonous products like ‘air fresheners’ and most commercial home cleaning products. Instead, you can NATURALLY eliminate bacteria and viruses in the air and on surfaces by using essential oils. 

Are essential oils really better than chemical cleaners?
A study in the journal Molecules explains that these plant essences are widely accepted for their antimicrobial qualities, and have been for a long time. Essential oils destroy microbes like bacteria and viruses with the compounds they contain – which include phenylpropanoids and terpenes, explains the Phytotherapy Research journal.

Essential oils offer a fantastic alternative to harmful chemical cleaners, as a study in the journal Support Care Cancer found that essential oils are safe for fighting certain microbes. Of course, like most researchers will say, more study is needed.

Which essential oils are best to kill viruses and bacteria?
All essential oils seem to have the compounds to fight microbes, that's part of the purpose they serve within the plant: to protect the plant. Nonetheless, some essential oils may work better than others in regard to using them within your home to kill and prevent bacteria and viruses in the air and on surfaces. Citrus essential oils have benefits of killing food-borne bacteria. The National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy recommends using eucalyptus, lemon, lemongrass and tea tree essential oils as natural antivirals and tea tree (Melaleuca alternifolia) to fight bacteria.

Other suggestions for essential oils include within DIY home cleaning products include: oregano, thyme, cinnamon, melissa and hyssop as strong virus fighters. Many studies have shown that additional essential oils fight viruses, bacteria and fungal infections. For instance, peppermint, lavender or clove oils.

How do I use essential oils to disinfect the home?
Simply add a few drops of essential oils to a spray bottle filled with water to create a simple, effective and natural cleaner. You can use this to clean countertops, sinks and other areas in the bathroom, kitchen and throughout the home. They also work great at cleaning and purifying the air to eliminate odors. How simple is that?

Try this Citrus Splash Surface Cleaner recipe... you'll love it!
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Shaving Cream - whipped homemade for a close shave!

2/8/2016

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Reasons for making your own Shaving Cream:
  1. It leave your face, legs, or armpits soft.
  2. You'll get a closer shave than just lathered soap.
  3. Avoid all the HARMFUL chemicals that are in store-bought versions.
  4. It makes a Great Gift for friends and family. 

As it turns out, there are thousands of homemade shaving cream recipes!  Most include many of the same ingredients. Cool, right? I made each of the main variations and changed them to improve them the way it worked for me and my family.  However, there is one little problem... 

The most prevalent recipe you will find includes shea butter. My shea butter whipped shaving cream recipe makes a fluffy cream to spread over your legs and makes for a silky shave.  The problem is that this puts a BUNCH of solid oils straight down the drain. Not fun for a homeowner!  Whether at the sink or in the shower, the solid oils flow down the drain.  Not even hot water is going to be able to flush it through, and it can clog...  You sure don't want to have to go looking to find where that clog is in your plumbing.

So, if you still want to use the fluffy lotion method, here’s the recipe. A super-dooper smooth shave, but for the sake of your pipes, don't let it down the drain. 


Natural lubricants and essential oils, this shaving cream improves razor glide for a close, comfortable shave. Great for men and women, this shaving cream will leave skin smooth, healthy, and moisturized. 
  • 2/3 cup Virgin Coconut Oil  
  • 2/3 cup Shea Butter
  • 1/4 cup Olive Oil (you could also use almond, grapeseed or jojoba oil)
  • 2 teaspoons Baking Soda

Essential oils are optional, however they add a great scent and some essential oils can be healing for the skin.  When it comes to Essential Oils, you have many choices to create a uniquely special blend - just the way you LOVE it! Here are a couple recommendations for blends. 

Blend #1
  • Lavender EO - 10 drops 
  • Peppermint EO - 5 drops 

Blend #2
  • Sandalwood EO - 5 drops
  • Peppermint EO - 5 drops
  • Melaleuca/Tea Tree EO - 5 drops

A few other examples of great essential oil (EO) combinations: 
  • Tangerine and Sweet Orange are hydrating 
  • Geranium and Jasmine are typically used on normal skin 
  • Eucalyptus and Rosemary for scarred skin or skin that is prone to infection
  • Roman Chamomile and Lavender EO's are moisturizing and used for dry skin or skin with issues such as eczema. 

For this recipe, aim for a total of 15 drops of essential oils!


Instructions
  1. First, soften Shea Butter (it is very hard in natural form) 
  2. Add Shea Butter and Coconut Oil to large mixing bowl. 
  3. Add Jojoba and Bergamot oils to bowl. 
  4. Using a hand mixer, mix all ingredients for 10 minutes. (This will create a light, whipped texture). 
  5. Store in an air tight container. 

The key to getting a light, whipped texture is by letting the Shea butter soften. You can also whip Shea butter with a hand mixer in it’s natural form, but it will result in a thicker, creamier texture that is a little harder to spread evenly over skin. 


1) Lotion Shave Cream
 Ingredients:
  • 1/2 cup shea butter
  • 1/3 cup sweet almond oil
  • 10 drops essential oils of choice
 Directions:
  1. Whip shea butter in a bowl
  2. Slowly add melted coconut and sweet almond oil while whipping.
  3. Add essential oils and whip.

2) Simple and Lovely - I love this recipe because I always have these ingredients on hand, I can make a bunch, and the coconut oil adds that extra moisture and smoothness for my legs. If you do not have fractionated coconut oil (used so you don’t get a hard clump of coconut oil in your container), you can substitute another oil like olive, sweet almond, apricot, or grapeseed.

Ingredients:
  • 1 oz homemade soap (non-castile will make it thicker)
  • 1 cup water
  • 2 Tbsp fractionated coconut oil
  • 10 drops essential oils of choice
 Directions:
  1. Shave 1 oz soap into a saucepan with water and heat over low until melted.
  2. Remove from heat and add fractionated coconut oil and essential oils.
  3. Add to your Foam Pump

3) Shampoo/Conditioner Combo - This one makes a great shaving cream, just make sure your are using healthy shampoos.  Check EWG database or my post on best to worst non-organic shampoos.

 Ingredients:
  • 3/4 cup conditioner
  • 1/4 cup shampoo
  • 4 Tbsp sweet almond oil or fractionated coconut oil
  • 10 drops essential oils of choice
 Directions:
  1. Combine all ingredients and pour into a foam pump.

4) Oil and Honey Combo - Oooh, cocoa butter, honey, and sweet almond oil! A Great combo! I really liked the feel of this one.  

 Ingredients:
  • 1/2 cup sweet almond oil
  • 1/4 cup cocoa butter (melted)
  • 1/4 cup castile soap
  • 1/4 cup raw honey
  • 3/4 cups warm water (or enough to fill a 16 oz container after other ingredients are added)
  • 10 drops essential oils of choice
 Directions:
  1. In a glass measuring cup, add cocoa butter and place in a sauce pan of water as a type of double broiler.
  2. Add soap, sweet almond oil, and honey.
  3. Pour into 16 oz foam container and add enough water to fill.
  4. Shake to combine well.

5) Aloe and Soap - Aloe is very soothing, inside and out. Using an aloe gel and soap combo makes this a great foaming gel for shaving.

 Ingredients:
  • 1/4 cup aloe vera gel (We use this brand internally, very good stuff)
  • 1/4 cup liquid castile soap (or melt 1oz in 1 cup water)
  • 2 Tbsp sweet almond oil
  • 1/2 cup filtered water
  • 10 drops essential oils of choice
 Directions:
  1. Combine all ingredients and pour into a foam pump.

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​Lose Weight with These 3 Essential Oils

12/12/2015

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Benefits of Grapefruit Essential Oil
There are really three main essential oils that I really believe can help your body with weight loss.
 
1. Grapefruit Oil
Grapefruit essential oil actually works with your body in activating enzymes that help your body break down brown body fat. We know that grapefruit can benefit weight loss and that the essential oil of grapefruit actually comes from the grapefruit peel, which is very high in certain compounds like D-limonene and helps support the metabolism as well as the cleansing and drainage of your lymphatic glands.
 
When applied topically to the skin in small amounts, grapefruit essential oil is an excellent diuretic and lymphatic stimulant. This is one reason why it’s included in many cellulite creams and blends that are used for dry brushing. For that reason, grapefruit essential oil is the number one oil that can help your body in burning fat and losing weight because of how it activates enzymes in your saliva, which helps break down body fat in your body.
 
When mixed with patchouli oil, grapefruit oil is known to lower cravings and hunger, which makes it a great tool to lose weight fast in a healthy way. Add several drops to your water, diffuse it in your office or home, or massage some onto your chest and wrists when a craving strikes.
 
2. Cinnamon Oil
The second best essential oil to support weight loss is cinnamon oil. Cinnamon oil has been shown time and time again to help regulate blood glucose levels and something in your body called GTF, glucose tolerance factor. For that reason, cinnamon oil is also fantastic for anybody with diabetes.
 
It helps balance blood sugar, which long-term will help with weight loss and help reduce those cravings for sugar. Unstable blood sugar can lead to overeating, low energy and weight gain, but adding cinnamon oil to fruit, tea, oats, baked goods or smoothies helps slow the rate at which glucose is released into the blood.
 
3. Ginger Oil
The third essential oil that supports the body in weight loss is ginger essential oil. Ginger works because it also reduces sugar cravings and helps reduce inflammation in the body. It’s so important that if you’re going to lose weight, that you’re also reducing inflammation, and supporting digestion and absorption of nutrients.
 
The compounds in ginger are called gingerols. Gingerols have been scientifically proven to reduce disease-causing inflammation in your intestines and overall improve absorption of the vitamins and minerals you’re consuming. If you’re absorbing more vitamins and minerals, then you’re helping to support your body’s cellular energy and create weight loss.
 
A 2013 study published in the Indian Journal of Physiology and Pharmacology concluded that ginger essential oil possesses antioxidant activity as well as significant anti-inflammatory and antinociceptive properties. After being treated with ginger essential oil for one month, enzyme levels increased in the blood of mice. The dose also scavenged free radicals and produced significant reduction in acute inflammation.

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Increase metabolism with essential Oils

12/11/2015

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Diffusing FALL into the Air

11/4/2015

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Essential oils are a curiosity to many folks -- they smell nice, but they're just not sure what to do with them, never mind how to get the most from aromatherapy's science-proven benefits (like antiviral, antibacterial and stress-reducing actions). So where to start?! Inhale! Breathe them in! By using a diffuser to accelerate the evaporation of oils in the air around you, not only does your place smell great, but its the best way to use the most sought-after uses of aromatherapy: immune system and emotional support. 

Our mind creates powerful connections between scent and our emotions, surroundings, and memories. Diffusing essential oils is a simple and effective way to access those connections. Inhaling the luscious scents of essential oils may also help build new and positive memories and experiences.

​Because diffusion distributes essential oil molecules into the air so effectively, it's an excellent way to maximize the beneficial properties of essential oils. There are many different ways to diffuse...
My two favorite diffusion methods:
  1. Direct Inhalation - You may simply open a bottle of essential oil and inhale or put a few drops of oil on the palm of your hand, rub your hands together, and then cup your hands over your nose and mouth and inhale. You can even add a few drops of oil to a bowl of hot (not boiling) water and inhale the vapor.
  2. Cold Air Diffusion - Place 8-10 drops of essential oils into your diffuser with purified water and inhale the vapors, and let the scent fill the atmosphere of the room. 

What's your favorite diffuser blend? Let me know in the comments! I love learning new combinations of oils.
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NATURE: Closer to Fine...

9/4/2015

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Since childhood I've wanted to live closer to nature instead of in a house. My curious childhood craving to be closer to the animals and wilderness kept my packed-bag of gear under my bed in case the opportunity arose. Being among trees, flowers and plants always feels calming and harmonious, and is the place I feel most connected to God and in touch with my own body, mind and soul. Hiking on wooded trails or playing in the garden is a refreshing escape from this world’s corruption. Nature is one of God's beautiful creations, and he made it for us. Get out there and PLAY!

And on the banks, on both sides of the river, there will grow all kinds of trees for food. Their leaves will not wither, nor their fruit fail, but they will bear fresh fruit every month, because the water for them flows from the sanctuary. Their fruit will be for food, and their leaves for healing.” 
                                                                                                                         - Ezekiel 47:12 ESV
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Why do mosquitoes bite me and not my friend?

5/18/2015

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Recent evidence suggests that some people give off masking odors that prevent mosquitoes from finding them. Recently, scientists at Rothamsted Research in the UK discovered that some people produce chemicals that smell bad to mosquitoes, masking the chemicals that usually attract the mosquitos.

James Logan and John Pickett (Vince, 2006) devised some unique ways of testing body odor. First, they had two different people put one hand into each end of a chamber and the investigators watched which hand the mosquitoes preferred. Then they selected the person who was not preferred (who felt lucky up to this point) and sealed their body in foil to collect their sweat. Talk about an unpleasant experiment. The researchers set about analyzing the body chemicals and are now waiting to patent the results in hopes of producing a natural insect repellent.

Full Article


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Pollen in the Air?

5/15/2015

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Millions of people suffering from allergies have benefited from chiropractic care, even though chiropractic care is not a specific allergy treatment. Why does it work? Because chiropractic is a method of natural health care that helps your body to function at its optimal level. That is very important if you suffer from allergies.

What are allergies?
An allergic response occurs when anything that your body does not recognize and considers foreign enters into your bodily environment. This includes pollen, drugs, bacteria etc. that your body’s immune system seeks to destroy.

Immune Diseases & Dysfunction
Your immune system is influenced by your nerves and hormones, by your diet and by your emotional stress. If your system is unhealthy (not functioning properly), your system may fail to recognize and remove abnormal cells; may not overcome infection; may overreact to foreign substances or even attack itself, as with the case of auto-immune diseases.

Allergies
The most common immune disorder is the allergic reaction which occurs when the immune system overreacts to an allergen and produces too many neutralizing chemicals to counteract it. Your immune system is in charge of keeping your system 100% organic, removing any thing that it determines to be foreign. This happens when your body is unable to adapt to its surroundings.


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Weight Loss & Tummy Tightening

5/6/2015

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TOP 7 REASONS TO COMPOST

3/8/2015

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While it takes thousands of years for the earth’s forces to build good soil, we can help do this in 5 – 10 years by adding compost—which adds microorganisms, arthropods, worms, and humus to the soil. The word “compost” comes from Latin where it meant “to put together.” This is what we do when we compost—we put together the correct amounts of compostable materials to make a great soil amendment.

1. Composting provides a partial solution to an issue of great concern in many communities. All around the world, landfills are filling up, garbage incineration is becoming increasingly unpopular, and other waste disposal options are becoming ever harder to find. Composting provides a way not only of reducing the amount of waste that needs to be disposed of, but also of converting it into a product that is useful for gardening, landscaping, or house plants.


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Boost your Workout with Essential oils

3/2/2015

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