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Shocking Dangers of Plug-Ins, Air Fresheners and Candles — and what to use instead.

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If you have been following The Paleo Mama and other natural living websites, you’ve no doubt already read several recommendations about the practical and therapeutic benefits of using an essential oil diffuser.  There are so many versatile uses for essential oil diffusers. In this article I want to give you some practical information for what, why, and how these simple little devices can enrich your life.

But we need to start by alerting you to some of the reasons not to use the trendy plug ins, aerosol sprays, and candles so popular as ways to improve the quality of your home atmosphere.

Dangers of Plug Ins, Aerosol Sprays, and Candles

Plug Ins

Studies have confirmed that the residual chemicals from plug ins can accumulate in ever-increasing amounts in the human body over a period of time, causing health consequences. Plug ins rely on heat induction technology and special heat-activated gels, which cause a scent to be released. These gels can contain an astounding number of toxic compounds. These plug ins contain the same chemicals shown below for aerosol sprays, plus one more—Naphthalene. This chemical has been found to cause cancer in the lungs and tissue damage in lab studies. Experts believe it likely causes the same effect in humans.

Aerosol Sprays

Scientific studies have shown that as many as one-quarter of common household air fresheners contain chemicals that may be potentially harmful. And while our lungs have been designed to filter out toxins, the health risks are greater for people whose lungs may already be susceptible (such as asthma or COPD sufferers, and young children). Children don’t have a complete metabolic system and cannot process things in the same way that adults do.

Here is a brief list of the chemicals that may be present in aerosol sprays:

  • Volatile organic compounds (1)
  • Formaldehyde, which is a known carcinogen
  • Pthalates, which have been linked to changes in hormone levels, poor semen quality, birth defects, and reproductive harm (2)
  • 1,4 dichlorobenzene, which can cause modest reductions in lung function (3)
  • Allergens that can cause harm to people with seasonal allergies, chronic asthma, COPD, or even just a common cold.

Candles

If you are using candles that are not 100 percent pure beeswax, or are made with 100 percent natural waxes like coconut, hemp, or soy, they are probably toxic. Many of the candles we use, including those wonderful aroma candles, have been made with paraffin wax, which gives off dangerous vapors like benezene and toluene. Some candles have wicks that contain heavy metals that become airborne and easily inhaled when burned. In addition, some of the scents and dyes used to make scented candles release harmful chemicals that can cause hormonal, behavioral and general health related issues.

Why Use an Essential Oil Diffuser?

Essential oil diffusers have been called the harbingers of the essence of beauty and health. What does an essential oil diffuser do? A simple definition is this: They enhance the environment by spreading the fragrance of herbal and essential oils throughout the air. When you use an essential oil diffuser, the essential oil permeates every part of the atmosphere.

These diffusers have both aesthetic and therapeutic purposes, and provide tremendous health and wellness benefits for their users.

Top Benefits of Using an Essential Oil Diffuser

There are many benefits from using an essential oil diffuser. I want to give you some of the most useful benefits so you will understand how these diffusers are so much better for you than the more dangerous plug ins and aerosol sprays.

  • Promote Relaxation and Better Sleep—There’s nothing more calming and relaxing at the end of a hard day than breathing in the fragrant and therapeutic aroma of an essential oil diffuser filling the area with some of your favorite essential oils.
  • Boost Against Seasonal Illnesses and Threats—Using a diffuser can help you fight illness in three ways: many of the essential oils you can use are powerful anti-microbics, and their vapors ward off airborne pathogens before they can invade your body. Essential oils also can be used to boost the immune system, and they also double as humidifiers to keep your airways moist and healthy so you are not so susceptible to seasonal “bugs.”
  • Support Emotional Health—Diffusing essential oils can help you de-stress or can help to energize you on a busy day. They can have a lifting, hope-inspiring effect on you when you are sad or depressed. If you are having a hard getting started in the morning, they can get you going. And they are great for helping to set a romantic mood for that special occasion.
  • Provide Additional Discomfort Relief—If you suffer from chronic or persistent discomfort from head tension, sore joints, and overworked muscles the essential oils you use in your diffuser can extend the effect they have when applied topically to the body.
  • Lazy Moms Way to Get Oils Into Your Kids Body—If you’re like me, then you are all for things that make your life easier, as a mom, without requiring much extra time. Every morning I turn on the diffuser in our kitchen and make my kids a healthy breakfast. By just breathing the air in the kitchen, they are getting the therapeutic benefits of whatever essential oils I’m diffusing into their bodies. 
  • Make Your House Smell Good without the Chemicals—As mentioned above in this article, there is a myriad of chemicals and toxins that are in plug-ins, aerosols, and candles. Diffusing can make your house smell nice without any risk of breathing in chemicals that are harmful to our bodies. 
  • Keep the Bugs Away without the DEET—Diffusing specific essential oils like TerraShield “repellent” blend, lemongrass, eucalyptus, and clove can help keep the mosquitoes away without ruining your airways with harmful ingredients. 

Types of Essential Oil Diffusers

There are four types of essential oil diffusers. Let me briefly describe each.

1. Waterless diffusers. These work like a perfume atomizer. They place essential oil into the space of the environment in the form of droplets.

  • Pros: They use no heat of water, yet disperse the entire oil into the air for optimal therapeutic benefits.
  • Cons: These are often the most expensive to use or buy. Because they use only essential oil, more oil is required.
  • Examples: This diffuser is made of oak wood and handmade ceramic, is waterless and uses no heat. And this diffuser is the one most used by health professionals, therapists, and aestheticians.

2. Ultrasonic diffusers. These diffusers use electric current to cause a vibration that spreads essential oil microparticles into the air. This is in the form of a cold mist. No heat is applied to the oil, which keeps the essential oil’s healing properties intact. It is the most popular type of essential oil diffuser today.

  • Pros: These use only a small amount of essential oil, and no heat is generated.
  • Cons: Only a small fraction of the mist is essential oil, and it depends on the air current already in the room to disperse the oil.
  • Examples: The Petal and Lumo diffuser through doTERRA are my favorites. They are a well-designed diffuser structured to take up minimal surface space while filling the air with the scents you enjoy. You can get these when you purchase an essential oil starter package here. The Petal covers about 350 square feet and the Lumo covers 500 square feet. 

3. Evaporative oil diffusers. These diffusers basically cause a wind-blown diffusion of the essential oils.

  • Pros: Wind-blown diffusion can be a quiet way to spread the oil’s aroma.
  • Cons: It may not be a therapeutic because all the components of the whole oil are not diffused at the same time.
  • Examples: This diffuser is a great way to enjoy essential oils just about anywhere—plus no heat, water, or cleaning necessary and plugs into a USB outlet

4. Heat diffusers. These diffusers are units like a candle burner, with burns under an upper dish holding the essential oils. They cause the oil to evaporate quickly.

  • Pros: Diffusing by using heat is an economical and efficient way to spread the essential oil aroma.
  • Cons: The heat used can change the properties of the oil at the molecular level, lessening the therapeutic benefit which is why I don’t recommend using this kind at all. 

Which Diffuser Should I Use?

To decide which diffuser is best for you, first consider why you want to use one:

  • Do you need one in your kitchen to get you going in the morning?
  • Do you want one for its calming effect in your busy office environment?
  • Are you trying to provide some healing therapeutic effects for you or your children while you deal with health issues?
  • Do you or your family members need help relaxing enough to fall asleep in the evening?
  • Are you looking for an emotional boost or motivation?

In addition to these questions, determine how long you want the diffuser to run. Most ultrasonic and waterless diffusers have timers to run from 1 to 16 hours. Some run constantly and then shut off. Others have an intermittent option.

What space do you need it to cover? If you have a very large room, you will want a larger diffuser or two separate diffusers to set up in opposite corners of the room.

Do you want a starter bundle of essential oils to go with your new diffuser? If so then you will want to consider a discounted starter bundle that you can purchase through me here. I think purchasing a ultrasonic diffuser (like the doTERRA Petal or Lumo) is the best for most families. 

My Favorite Essential Oil Diffuser Recipe

Hopefully my article has inspired you to choose your perfect diffuser and get that wonderful, therapeutic aroma flowing. Here’s one of my favorite diffusing recipes for you to try…it smells like “fruity pebbles“! 

Fruity Pebbles Diffuser Blend

  • 2 Drops of Lemongrass
  • 2 Drops of Lime
  • 2 Drops of Grapefruit

 Add to your essential oil diffuser, top with water, and enjoy sweet memories from your childhood! 

Do not waste time dreaming of great faraway opportunities; do the best you can where you are. Open your petals of power and beauty and fling out the fragrance of your life in the place that has been assigned to you.

—Orison Swett Marden

Sources

  1. http://www.naturallivingideas.com/essential-oil-diffuser-benefits/
  2. https://www.holistichealthherbalist.com/7-benefits-of-using-an-essential-oil-diffuser/
  3. https://www.grandparents.com/health-and-wellbeing/health/are-air-fresheners-bad-for-you
  4. http://www.naturallivingideas.com/plug-in-air-freshener-dangers/
  5. https://www.essentialoilhaven.com/understanding-essential-oil-diffusers-better/
  6. https://www.doterra.com/US/en/blog/healthy-living-which-diffuser

 

Sandalwood Essential Oil Uses

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Sandalwood is a name given to a class of fragrant woods that, unlike other aromatic woods, can retain their fragrance for decades. Sandalwood essential oil is extracted through steam distillation of pieces of wood from matured Sandalwood trees which are 40-80 years old, although 80 years is preferred. The older the tree, the more oil is available, and the aroma is stronger. For centuries, sandalwood has reserved a place of dignity and respect in many civilizations and religions of the world, especially in the Hindu Religion, where it is considered holy and indispensable in almost all of the social and religious rituals and ceremonies, from the birth of an individual until their death.

The main chemical components of Sandalwood essential oil are: Alpha Santalol, Beta Santalol, Santyl Acetate and Santalenes. 

Where to buy therapeutic-grade Sandalwood? 

Click here to purchase therapeutic, high-quality sandalwood essential oil. 

What are the benefits of Sandalwood Essential Oil?

Sandalwood essential oil has some really remarkable benefits. Some of its primary benefits are:

  • One of the top benefits of Sandalwood essential oil is its ability to promote healthy looking, smooth skin. Applying Sandalwood to the skin will not only promote a smooth complexion, but can also be helpful in reducing the appearance of skin imperfections. As you can see, there are many benefits to making Sandalwood essential oil a regular part of your skincare routine. 
     
  • To use Sandalwood essential oil for your skin, try creating your own at-home spa experience by doing the following: fill a large bowl with steaming water, apply one to two drops of Sandalwood essential oil to your face, and cover your head with a towel. Next, place your face over the steaming water. This at-home spa treatment will leave your skin feeling nourished and rejuvenated. 
     
  • Sandalwood essential oil is also useful for enhancing your mood. The grounding, balancing aroma of Sandalwood will help settle and balance emotions. To take advantage of these benefits, apply one to two drops of Sandalwood essential oil to the palms of your hands. Then, cup your hands around your nose and inhale for up to 30 seconds. This will help lessen tension and balance emotions. 
     
  • While there are many applications for Sandalwood essential oil on the body and inside the home, it can also be a gardener’s best friend. Studies have shown that Sandalwood essential oil can have positive effects on garden plants. In one study, researchers sprayed several species of plants with a solution of Sandalwood essential oil. After being sprayed, results showed that the essential oil helped the plants cope with environmental stress. If there are plants in your garden that need help surviving times of environmental stress, consider using a Sandalwood essential oil solution to save the day. 
     
  • Along with serious benefits for skin and complexion, Sandalwood essential oil also holds benefits for hair. If you want to use Sandalwood essential oil on your hair, simply apply one or two drops of the oil to wet hair. Sandalwood will give your hair extra shine by restoring moisture to your strands. An easy way to work Sandalwood essential oil into your regular haircare regimen is to add a few drops to your daily shampoo or conditioner. 
     
  • One of the most common uses for Sandalwood oil is for meditation, due to its grounding and mood-enhancing properties. The sweet, woody aroma of Sandalwood is known to enhance mood—which is why the oil has been used in meditation for centuries. Consider diffusing Sandalwood in your bedroom after a long, stressful day, or before meditation to promote an uplifting atmosphere. 
     
  • Not only is Sandalwood essential oil good for the complexion, but it can also contribute to a smooth, comfortable shave. This DIY Shaving Cream uses some of the best oils for skin—Peppermint, Sandalwood, and Tea Tree oil. Combining these soothing oils with shea butter and coconut oil will leave your skin smooth and moisturized after every shave. Perfect for men and women, this comforting concoction is easy to make, and will provide you with a close shave every time. 
     
  • While Sandalwood essential oil is helpful for meditation sessions, it can also provide a soothing, relaxed atmosphere even when you aren’t meditating. If you like to relax by taking a hot bath, Sandalwood can create a soothing atmosphere at bath time. After a long day at work or an afternoon of taking care of the kids, or any time you need a little balance, add one to two drops of Sandalwood essential oil to a hot bath to reduce feelings of stress and promote relaxation.
     
  • Because it provides grounding effects, Sandalwood essential oil can also be helpful at bedtime. Diffuse Sandalwood next to your bed as you are going to sleep to help promote a relaxing environment for a restful night’s sleep. You can also apply a few drops of Sandalwood essential oil to the back of your neck before going to sleep to promote an atmosphere that will lead to restful sleep. 

What are Sandalwood’s cautions?

Possible skin sensitivity. Keep out of reach of children. If you are pregnant, nursing, or under a doctor’s care, consult your physician. Avoid contact with eyes, inner ears, and sensitive areas.

Top Ten Uses for Sandalwood Essential Oil

  1. Sandalwood oil can bring mental focus and clarity when used in your diffuser. Add 3-4 drops to your diffuser or try inhaling some sandalwood oil the next time you have a big deadline that requires focus and calm.
  2. It is beneficial to reduce irritation from mild skin irritations. Add 2-3 drops to a carrier oil and apply over the areas of skin irritation. It can also be applied directly if desired using a Q-tip or cotton ball.
  3. Sandalwood is excellent at easing coughs.  Add a few drops to a tissue or washcloth and inhale to help reduce the severity and duration of a cough.
  4. Sandalwood is high in antioxidants that can help reduce damage caused by free radicals, which promote aging. Try adding 5 drops of sandalwood oil to an unscented lotion and applying it directly to the face for anti-aging benefits.
  5. It can help to eliminate occasional digestive discomfort. Add 8-10 drops in bath water and take a nice long soak. You can also add 2-3 drops to a carrier oil and massage into lower back and abdomen.
  6. For chapped, dry, or cracked skin, mix 2-3 drops with coconut oil and rub into the affected areas.
  7. Sandalwood oil can be used as an insect repellent. Use 2-3 drops in your diffuser in the area where you need protection from insects.
  8. Sandalwood oil can be diluted and used as a gargle if you have a sore or dry throat.
  9. You can apply 1-2 drops of Sandalwood oil to clean, wet hair to help restore moisture and give hair a silky shine. This is my favorite way to use Sandalwood! 
  10. Sandalwood oil can even help to resolve the problem of uneven suntans. Mix 5 teaspoons of coconut oil with two teaspoons of jojoba oil and 7-10 drops of Sandalwood essential oil. Massage this into overexposed areas. Sandalwood helps break down the pigment that has reached the surface of the skin and will leave you with a more even skin tone. (source) 

Where to  purchase Sandalwood essential oil

Home-made Sandalwood Essential Oil Recipe

It is easy to make your own Sandalwood Perfume recipes with essential oils. Sandalwood is a perfect base note. It creates depth to a perfume, so it can be blended in many different ways. Try making your choice of these four perfumes using Sandalwood blends: Aphrodisiac, Serenity, Lift Your Spirit, and Beautiful. You can find the recipes for each one here.

Sandalwood and Emotions

Sandalwood is the oil of sacred devotion. It assist with all kinds of prayer, meditation, and spiritual worship. This oil has been used since ancient times for its powerful ability to calm the mind, still the heart, and prepare the spirit to commune with God. It assists in quieting the mind so that individuals may hear the subtle voice of the Spirit. It teaches true humility, devotion, and love for the Divine. (source) 

Companion Oils: Oregano, Frankincense, Myrrh

Sandalwood Essential Oil Pin

Sources

  1. https://www.doterratools.com/documents/Sandalwood_%28Indian%29_Essential_Oil_Product_Information_Page.pdf
  2. https://www.organicfacts.net/health-benefits/essential-oils/sandalwood-essential-oil.html
  3. https://articles.mercola.com/herbal-oils/sandalwood-oil.aspx
  4. https://thehealthyhavenblog.com/2014/01/24/suggested-uses-for-sandalwood-essential-oil/
  5. https://www.sustainablebabysteps.com/sandalwood-essential-oil.html

Introducing Spikenard Essential Oil

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spikenard-essential-oil

I am so pleased and excited to be able to tell you about Spikenard Essential Oil. I, along with many others, have been waiting for the availability of this powerful and purifying oil with many therapeutic uses. 

This oil is available to purchase through doTERRA on October 3, 2016! 

Spikenard Essential Oil has a long historical significance, being used in ancient times by many cultures. It was part of the Ayurvedic medicine herbal tradition of India, and was treasured in Egypt as a luxury. It was a main ingredient in ancient perfumes, including the consecrated incense described in the Bible and the Talmud. It was used by Achilles in Homer’s “Iliad” to perfume the body of Patrokios. It was a common flavoring in many ancient Roman and Medieval European foods.

It is mentioned several times in the Bible, and I especially love the story in John 12:1-10, where Mary of Bethany use the very expensive Spikenard perfume she carried in a beautiful alabaster jar (about a pint) to anoint the feet of Jesus, then using her own hair to wipe his feet. This was an extravagant display of her devotion to him just two days before His death, the cost equaling a total year’s income at that time. It has become a symbol for many of total abandonment and adoration for the Lord, with no regard to the cost.

Spikenard is a flowering plant of the Valerian family, a flowering plant about three feet tall with pink bell-shaped flowers, and is native to high altitudes in the Himalayan mountains of Nepal. The spikenard sourced from there is of the highest quality, and the quality of any other source of Spikenard oil could not be recommended for any therapeutic use. dōTERRA’s Spikenard essential oil is harvested by steam distillation from the roots of the plant.

Primary Benefits

Spikenard has a woody, musky aroma that is very uplifting and promotes feelings of calmness and relaxation. It is frequently used in aromatherapy and meditation for its grounding properties. It has a long historical significance of being very therapeutic and purifying to the skin, and promotes clean, healthy skin. Let me tell you a little bit more about some of the specific benefits for this powerful oil.

  • Renowned for its cleansing and rejuvenating effect on the skin
  • It can be applied to minor skin irritations to protect them from threats
  • Deodorant—Many people find it very useful for helping to eliminate body odor.
  • Digestive—Its stimulating, calming effect is effective in eliminating occasional stomach discomfort.
  • Its calming quality has long been utilized to soothe nerves and promote healthy sleep.
  • Respiratory—It is very useful in helping to support healthy respiratory function caused by environmental and seasonal threats.
  • Antioxidant—It protects the body from wear and tear and from occasional outside threats.
  • Many people find that just the aroma alone is able to lift them out of depressed moods.
  • It helps to support healthy digestive function and keeping your bowels running normal
  • Emotions—This oil is very beneficial for helping to produce mental peace and harmony in the emotions.
  • Spikenard is a root oil, which helps promote a healthy inflammatory response. It is recommended that you apply Spikenard to your spine, using a downward application, neck to the base of the spine.

How to Use Spikenard Essential Oil

Preparing to Use Essential Oils for the First Time

Because Spikenard is a new essential oil to many people, and I am introducing it to you for the first time, I am aware that there may be some of you who have never used essential oils therapeutically before this. Because of this, I recommend that you introduce their use to your body in stages.

Begin by introducing Spikenard essential oil with another essential oil that is known to seldom cause any negative reactions, like Lavender essential oil. Mix the two oils together and just dab it on your skin in a non-sensitive area as a test. If you have no reactions, or have positive reactions therapeutically or emotionally to the test, then you can use essential oils in a greater quantity.

Try making a rollerball with Spikenard, Lavender, and fractionated coconut oil. Use on your feet, temples, back of neck, wrists, and over your heart. If you continue to have positive responses to your use of these oils, begin to include the addition of stronger oils for their therapeutic uses. These stronger oils may include Eucalyptus, Breathe, Cardamom, and Peppermint essential oils. Be sure that you use only essential oils of the highest therapeutic-grade, and of the purest quality like doTERRA.

It won’t be long until you are enjoying the therapeutic and emotional qualities of many essential oils. You may even want to choose to become a part of our Well-Oiled Machine (The Well-Oiled Machine is a health and wellness team led by my husband, Frank, and I. We are dedicated to sharing natural solutions for your health and home. For more information, email me at jackie@ritzessentials.com) or check out my info page here. 

Using Spikenard Essential Oil

There are so many ways that you can use this oil therapeutically and emotionally. I want to highlight just a few of these uses for you.

  • As an enhancer of other essential oils you use. It is a great oil to layer topically on your body to promote the effectiveness of other essential oils.
  • To loosen muscular and joint discomforts and tension. Because of its enhancing qualities, you can make an amazingly effective recipe for alleviating muscle and joint discomfort and for eliminating stress.
    • This rollerball recipe includes: 1 part Roman Chamomile essential oil, 1 part Clary Sage essential oil, 1 part Petitgrain essential oil (another great new dōTERRA oil), 1 part Spikenard essential oil. Top with Hazel Nut oil or, if not available, with fractionated coconut oil 
  • To eliminate flaky scalp Spikenard can be uses to eliminate flaky scalp by adding it to you shampoo, or by applying it directly on your scalp. I recommend a method that has worked well for me: Add several drops of spikenard to a tablespoon or so of coconut oil and rub it into your scalp much like you would a face mask. Then cover your scalp with saran wrap, and leave it in place for an hour. Then shampoo as usual.
  • To eliminate pesky skin problems that seem impossible to get rid of. Spikenard is well tolerated by all skin types and can be applied neat if desired, even on the skin of children. I recommend that use Spikenard instead of melaleuca in my All Purpose Salve recipe here! 
  • Use an inhalation method to help with respiratory issues caused by seasonal and environmental threats. Add 2-3 drops of Spikenard essential oil to a bowl of steaming hot water. Drape a towel over your head and inhale the steaming vapor for a few minutes.
  • One of the most relaxing therapeutic uses for Spikenard is through an aromatherapy massage. You can prepare a massage cream by using 1-2 ounces of a great massage oil (I recommend dōTERRA’s AromaTouch Blend) and adding 15-20 drops of Spikenard oil. It will detoxify the body and stimulate the entire circulatory system.
  • Try preparing a soothing, rejuvenating tubful of warm water. Add a dispersant like coconut oil, jojoba oil, whole milk, almond milk, or even sea salts to bond with the Spikenard essential oil. Try using 1-2 ounces dispersant with 5-6 drops of Spikenard oil, and step in to this relaxing essential oil experience.
  • Prepare a deodorizing spray to use whenever and wherever you want to deodorize or disinfect. Use 1 ounce of vodka or rubbing alcohol, and 1 teaspoon of Spikenard essential oil. Add this to 7-8 ounces of distilled water in a spray bottle. This works great on linens, towels, furniture, rugs, and leaves a refreshing clean smell.

Get Started Today

Once you try Spikenard essential oil I believe that you will fall in love with its therapeutic and medicinal qualities. You can get your own quantity of dōTERRA’s Spikenard Essential Oil early in October. For more information on how to order essential oils please click here (if you are not currently a wholesale customer). 

Sources

  1. Jackie Ritz on Periscope: https://www.periscope.tv/w/1YqKDDnOBeOKV
  2. https://doterra.com/US/en/p/spikenard-oil
  3. https://www.thefusionmodel.com/spikenard-essential-oil-benefits-uses-and-side-effects/
  4. https://essentialoilsinformer.com/12-surprising-spikenard-essential-oil-uses-and-benefits-that-you-should-know/
  5. https://thepaleomama.com/essential-oils/

Why I DIY & Why YOU Should, Too!

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yoooo

By Dr. Eric Zielinski

Don’t miss your chance to attend the online and free Essential Oil summit and learn more about DIY and more! 

Most people don’t realize how lucrative “beauty” is. It is one of the fasting growing industries in the world, and recent reports suspect that the global beauty market will reach $265 billion in 2017! Now, don’t get me wrong, making money isn’t a bad thing. What concerns me is the real cost that the marketplace doesn’t like to talk about; namely, the health risks associated with a vast majority of products sold on store shelves today.

This, my friend, is why my wife and I DIY and why I hope you will, too!

Your Skin is a Sponge 

The reason why we’ve become aware of the harm that body care products can cause is because of the discovery that human skin is literally a sponge. Scientists have proven that more than 60% of the chemicals in our body care products absorb through our skin and into our blood stream, but this is just one part of the equation! Think about all the hairspray you inhale when doing your hair, the lipstick that you unconsciously lick throughout the day, or the minute mascara particles that enter your eyes!

If you’re using an abundant life giving concoction made with a healthy base and therapeutic grade essential oils, then you have nothing to worry about. You can do a happy dance because you’re doing your body good! On the other hand, if your favorite cosmetic line is filled with harmful fillers and preservatives, then you better on dance yourself to the doctor’s office for a early check-up because you’re poisoning yourself!

Yes, I jest, but this is no laughing matter. This is serious business, folks, and the safe rule of thumb to live by is if you won’t eat it, you shouldn’t put it on your skin!

Hidden Toxins in Your Body Care Products

It is becoming increasingly difficult to purchase pure, wholesome body care products and unsuspecting customers are duped by labels claiming they are “all natural, “organic” and “GMO-free.”  Yes, these qualities are all very important to maintain the integrity of your health, but they are not a guarantee of purity because harmful fillers and preservatives are oftentimes slipped in your favorite lotion or cream.

Some of the most dangerous (and common!) culprits to be on the lookout for are:

  • Coal Tar
  • DEA (Diethanolamine)
  • Formaldehyde
  • Fragrance/Parfum
  • Mineral oil
  • Lauryl sulfates
  • Parabens 
  • Propylene glycol (PEG)
  • Talc  

The bottom line is that you need to be avid label reader, and make sure that you are not being inadvertently poisoned by the products that you’re using every day!

Easy DIY Natural Solutions

Two of the most dangerous culprits in the beauty market are cosmetics and lotions; both of which are extremely easy to do-it-yourself (DIY).

Cosmetics

By and large, the vast majority of women use one or more cosmetic items to enhance their look. Sadly most of these are made up of synthetic ingredients that are caked on their face for hours on end. We mustn’t forget what we have already learned – these chemicals are blinked into your eyes, seeped into your pores, and accidentally licked into your mouths every single day of the year and this accumulates over your lifespan.

The primary way to stop this vicious cycle is to implement some easy-to-implement natural solutions and lipstick is the first place to start. Essentially a jazzed up lip balm, you can DIY by following this recipe:

Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Melt oil, beeswax and butter in a saucepan over low heat.
  2. Stir in optional coloring powder
  3. Remove from heat and stir in a drop or two of essential oil for fragrance and nourishment, like frankincense, geranium, lavender, lemongrass, nerloi, rose, or ylang ylang.
  4. Place mixture in lipstick tubes or a small tin container.
  5. Put in refrigerator to cool and use when desired.

As a word of caution, don’t forget that many cold-pressed citrus oils are phototoxic, meaning they can cause excessive sensitivity when exposed to the sun. If you’d like to use citrus oils in your lipstick, be sure to use the ones on this list:

  • Bergamot Oil (FCF)
  • Blood Orange Oil
  • Lemon Oil (Steam Distilled)
  • Lime Oil (Steam Distilled)
  • Mandarin Oil
  • Sweet Orange Oil
  • Orange Leaf Oil
  • Satsuma Oil (Cold/Expeller Pressed)
  • Tangelo Oil
  • Tangerine Oil
  • Yuzu Oil

Lotion

We all can use a little moisturizing love to take care of the skin that works so hard for us now and again, right? But, at what cost are we doing so? Granted, lotion is a very basic product (or should be), but most contain a mile-long list of chemicals that are a recipe for nothing good for our health!

Don’t forget to keep an eye out for the harmful fillers and preservatives like parabens, mineral oil and fragrance when purchasing your lotion. If you get discouraged because you can’t find one with the fragrance that you enjoy without all the junk in it, then doing it yourself is the way to go. And, oh, how simple it is! 

By and large, the easiest and most effective moisturizer is a simple ointment reminiscent of something our ancestors used to enjoy. All you need is a healthy, non-toxic base and some essential oils. Easy peesy!

  • 1 oz of the carrier oil of your choosing (fractionated coconut, jojoba, almond, olive, grape seed are all great options)
  • 5-7 drops of your favorite essential oil (geranium, helichrysum, frankincense, lavender, myrrh, rose and sandalwood are all good choices)

If you want a thicker lotion or cream-type of consistency, try:

  • 1/4 cup Shea butter
  • 1/8 cup sweet almond oil
  • 1 tablespoon beeswax 
  • 20 drops of essential oils

Don’t forget the warning about photosensitization and citrus oils. You certainly don’t want sunspots and excessive burns, because you’re going to be out in the sun too much one day.

Guest posted By Dr. Eric Zielinski (thanks Eric!) 

Risks of Using Essential Oils

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I’ve been using herbs and essential oils for over 10 years now and I’m shocked at the risks that people are taking when they jump into using essential oils. So, I feel I need to warn you all before you use another essential oil or before you buy your starter kit of essential oils. 

10 Risks of Using Essential Oils

1. You will need to buy a new purse 

It’s true. Your purse you have now won’t work. You need something that your oils will fit nicely into. I love my Sew Grown clutch but there are tons of great purses on the market that you can fit all your oils into. 

2. You will notice your family is healthier. 

This is a huge risk. I mean waking up in the middle of the night with a child who has ear discomfort can be frustrating. Thankfully, now you will have the answers at your fingertips, and you can run downstairs and grab your Melaleuca and rub it behind his ears and down his jawline. 

3. Your house will smell better and feel cleaner. 

Throwing away your plugins and candles is scary! DO IT! Those things have chemicals in them and you’re breathing them in ALL.DAY.LONG. Swap them out for an essential oil diffuser. My kids don’t know this but I sneak sleepy-time oils in our diffuser at dinner-time because I NEED THEM TO SLEEP….and they do, thanks to Lavender and/or Serenity “calming” blend. 

4. You will have more energy. 

You might not be bouncing off the walls like you do with your energy drinks, but you also won’t experience that dreadful “caffeine crash.” I love using essential oils for energy. My favorite combination is Peppermint and Wild Orange. I put a drop of each in my hands and rub my hands together and then breathe it in like I’m a crack addict. 

5. Your kids will scream for you to put their diffuser on at night.

So, if you’re like me and on some nights, you just want to throw the kids in bed (literally), then you’re gonna hate this one. EVERY.SINGLE.NIGHT. my kids must have their diffuser on. I created little mini-monsters. And they seem to remember this when I’ve sweetly tucked them in and kissed them good night and settled into my chair downstairs with my hot tea and homemade afghan. I hear little footsteps coming down the stairs saying, “Mommy, can you put some lavender in my diffuser?” Monsters. 

6. You’ll need all the oils. 

Oh you will need them all. You will buy your starter kit and realize you need Cedarwood, or Arborvitae, or some Lime to put in your “mommy drink.” Oh yea—you’ll need them all and you’ll buy them all…which is why you should buy the Every Oil Kit and just get it over with. 

7. If you’re a guy, your testostrogen will increase. 

Oh that’s a word. Traditionally, doTERRA has mostly women doing the business. So when a man goes to a class or an event and sees all the women embracing each other and telling powerful stories, he will not be able to help becoming emotional and teary-eyed as well. Trust me—I’ve watched my hard-faced, military husband break out in tears over this Nepal video. 

8. People will actually want to hang out with you. 

Oh you’ll be nicer. You’ll be pleasant to be around. Not only will you smell incredible (especially if you wear Whisper “Blend for Women”), but essential oils have such a positive effect on your mood. Essential oils are now known to stimulate the limbic system, which can cause one to reminisce about positive events in their past and that can lead to smiles and laughing and visions of goats bouncing around on the mountain (oh wait, that’s just me). 

9. Everyone will want you to make them a roller-bottle. 

You’ll become the crazy, oil lady…oh yes you will. Just embrace it. When everyone calls into work because their immune system is shot, you will be the next phone call. So, get ready to make samples and roller-bottles for your friends and family, you crazy snake oil lady. 

10. You will say you don’t want to sell, but then you’ll come crawling to me asking me how to sell because all your friends want to buy the oils.

“I don’t want to sell the oils, Jackie. Don’t bother me about that if I purchase a starter kit with you.”

Oh, absolutely. I will leave you alone. The great thing about doTERRA is that you don’t have a monthly order. You can just purchase the oils whenever you want and there is no requirement to sell anything. But I’ll be here WHEN you need help sending someone your referral link or when someone at your work won’t leave your office because you have your new diffuser sitting on your desk and they really need to get out and buy their own. 

See, you guys. This is risky. Essential oils are a huge risk. 😉 

5 Essential Oils You Need in Your Life

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Essential oils are volatile aromatic compounds extracted from plants, fruit, seeds, roots, and bark and have powerful health benefits. They can be used for a wide array of purposes for your health, home, and homemade recipes. 

Using essential oils to support your health is called aromatherapy and natural-minded, holistic people have been doing this for thousands of years. When essential oils enter the bloodstream, they have an effect on the whole body. They can enter the bloodstream through various application methods (diffusing, topical use, internal use) and circulate through the bloodstream and interact with tissues and cells throughout the body.

America is a little late to the game and is just now starting to become more aware of the many benefits that essential oils can bring to our bodies…especially these top 5.

You can purchase essential oils here! 

5 Essential Oils You Need In Your Life…like right now!

1) Lavender. Lavender has been cherished for it’s unmistakable aroma and beneficial properties for thousands of years. 

Lavender Essential Oil

Primary Benefits: 

  • Soothes occasional skin irritations
  • Helps to reduce sad feelings because of it’s high amount of linalool 
  • Promotes a peaceful night’s sleep 
  • Helps to ease feelings of tension

How to Use: 

  • Add a few drops of Lavender to your pillow or feet at bedtime
  • Keep a bottle of lavender on hand to soothe occasional skin irritations 
  • Add to a roll-on bottle and top with fractionated coconut oil and apply to wrists, neck and feet to help reduce anxious feelings

2) Frankincense. Renowned as one of the most prized and precious essential oils, Frankincense has extraordinary health benefits. It’s soothing and beautifying properties are used to rejuvenate skin and reduce the appearance of imperfections.

Frankincense

Primary Benefits: 

  • Promotes healthy cellular function
  • Promotes feelings of relaxation and helps to balance the mood
  • Reduces the appearance of skin imperfections

How to Use: 

  • Apply to the bottoms of your feet or diffuse to promote feelings of relaxation and help to balance mood
  • Take 1-2 drops in a veggie capsule to support healthy cellular function 
  • Add 1-2 drops to skin to reduce the appearance of skin imperfections 

3) Melaleuca. More commonly known as “Tea Tree,” Melaleuca essential oil has over 92 different compounds and limitless applications. 

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Primary Benefits: 

  • Promotes healthy immune function 
  • Protects against environmental and seasonal threats
  • Cleanses and rejuvenates the skin

How to Use: 

  • For occasional skin irritations, apply 1-2 drops of melaleuca on the affected area
  • Apply a few drops to a spray bottle and mix with water and spay on surfaces to protect against environment threats
  • Combine 1–2 drops with your facial cleanser for added cleansing properties, or apply to skin after shaving

4) Peppermint. The peppermint plant is a hybrid of the watermint plant and spearmint and is, personally, one oil I could not live without.

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Primary Benefits:

  • Promotes healthy respiratory function and clear breathing
  • Promotes digestive health
  • Repels bugs naturally

How to Use: 

  • Use a drop of Peppermint in water for a healthy, refreshing mouth wash
  • Take 1-2 drops in a veggie capsule to help alleviate occasional stomach upset
  • Place 1 drop in the palms of your hands and inhale for a mid-day pick-me-up

5) Lemon. The top-selling essential oil, Lemon has multiple benefits and uses. Lemon is a powerful cleansing agent that purifies the air and surfaces, and can be used as a non-toxic cleaner throughout the home.

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Primary Benefits: 

Cleanses and purifies the air and surfaces

Naturally cleanses the body and aids in digestion

Promotes a positive mood

How to Use:

Add Lemon oil to a spray bottle and spray on surfaces, tables, sinks and countertops

Diffuse in your home to create a uplifting environment 

Take 1-2 drops in a veggie capsule to assist with seasonal respiratory discomfort

Essential Oil Quality

The most important thing about essential oils is knowing that not all essential oils are created equal. Where a plant is grown has a major impact on it’s constitution, which then determines the potency of the plant. Additionally, harvesting the right part of the plant at the right time is a major determiner in the quality of an essential oil. 

This is why I use and love doTERRA. They are a step above any other essential brand I have ever used. They have a very strict testing standards and harvest their oils all over the world in their prime environment. 

How to Buy

If you would like to start using these 5 essential oils, then I recommend a wholesale starter kit through doTERRA. The Home Essentials Starter kit and the Natural Solutions kit include all 5 of these essential oils and more. 

Purchase a qualifying starter kit before December 31st and I’ll throw in an extra full-size diffuser, 2 bottles of essentials oils not in your kit, and Frankincense! 

Ready to get started? CLICK HERE and let me help you! 

Top 5 essential oils you need