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Essential Oils 4 You

 

Essential Oils have been used for thousands of years in many cultures throughout the world. Taken from raw plant life they have been found to help with many ailments . Different countries have adopted there preference for how the oils should be used in a safe manor,but putting this aside the basic principle is the same.

Essential oils can be used  through inhalation , ingestion and topically.

Allot of people now are reverting back to the natural side and where possible they are using the plants again .

I am going to feature different oils on a month to month basis .

The practice of Aromatherapy, is the therapeutic use of essential oils derived from plants, often called the life force of the plant. They are not the whole plant and, like blood, they will lose their life force if not properly stored and used. Although the use of essential oils is very old, the term Aromatherapy was not coined until the 1930s, by a French chemist named R M Gattefasse, who published many articles and books on the beneficial effects of essential oils.

The first recorded use of essential oils is in ancient Egyptian times, although it is probable that they were recognized and used, from very early in the history of humankind. In Egypt, the essential oils were prepared by placement of the plant in a stone trough with fatty oil and then by repeatedly crushing them, until the base oil was saturated with the essential oils. This method is still used today for the extraction of some oils, such as rose, with machinery replacing the human labor. They were largely used for cosmetics and in religious ceremonies, for similar reasons as today, EEG Frankincense was used to dispel demons and now is used for nightmares and paranoia. 

Plutarch used essential oils to produce hallucinatory dreams, in his search for greater understanding. One of these was calamus which contains 75% azarone, a very toxic chemical, producing similar effects to mescalin. Indeed, many essential oils have traditionally been used for purposes of increasing the higher states of consciousness, whether by priests, shamans or philosophers. On a more practical note, many Greek women rubbed marjoram oil into their hair to help keep it blond, but found that it also acted as an antidepressant!

Herbalism and the use of essential oils, was the foremost method of healing in all cultures, for many centuries. The Arabs discovered distillation and thereafter many essential oils were prepared this way both for perfumes and medicinally, the latter being especially important in India and China. The Bible makes frequent reference to the use of aromatic oils in healing and their use was recognized during the Great Plague of the 17th century, for their prophylactic properties. People who worked closely with essential oils, such as perfumers, were virtually immune to the plague and pomanders containing certain oils, were carried by doctors both to reduce odors and to ward off disease.

It was not until the 19th century that their medicinal use fell out of favor, with the advent of cheap synthetic drugs that worked faster. However by the 20th century, many people were again experimenting with more gentle and natural ways of healing. Gattefasse achieved many remarkable results from using essential oils, during the 2nd World War, for gangrene and burns and he wrote the first western book, on their usage. Jean Valnet continued his research and treated battle wounds extensively with essential oils. It is mainly due to his work that Aromatherapy has been recognized in its own right. Other names worth mentioning in this early field, are Marguerite Maury who showed that oils are absorbed into the bloodstream through the hair follicles and Robert Tisserand, who wrote the first English book on Aromatherapy, in the 1970s.

  Since then, Aromatherapy has become increasingly popular, with quality essential oils available to the general public for use in burners, vaporizers and for massage. There are also many excellent references available to anyone who is interested in learning more about this ancient and effective form of healing.

  My Oil's for the Month

Here are some Suggestions for your Winter Essential Oils

Aromatherapy brings us the aromatic energy of living plants in the form of essential oils. These fragrances are a natural antidote to the emotionally debilitating effects of winter. Aromatherapy is supportive in the winter season of quiet regeneration. Winter essential oils cleanse and freshen air in homes closed tight against the cold weather. Essential oils for winter include woody, evergreen, citrus, spice and resin oils. Gingerbread and delicious spice cake come to mind with pungent essential oils such as clove, cinnamon, allspice, ginger and nutmeg. Fresh citrus oils including bergamot, sweet orange, lemon and tangerine recall memories of old fashioned citrus pomanders. Warming oils include Orange, Black Pepper and Rosemary. Immune boosting oils are Tea-Tree, Lavender, Sandalwood and Bergamot. To ease congestion and fight infections use Tea-Tree, Pine, Eucalyptus and Lavender. Bergamot tea is useful for a sore throat and can be used as a gargle. Chamomile tea is very soothing and eases an upset stomach.

Bergamot (Citrus bergamia) Bergamot is uplifting sweet with a fruity fragrance. Helpful for depression. Refreshes a room. Avoid sunbathing and sunbeds when using this oil.

Black Pepper ( Piper nigrum)  Hot, dry, spicy oil with a deeply warming effect. Relieves muscular aches and pains. Stimulates the digestive, circulatory and lymphatic systems. Can irritate sensitive skin, use sparingly.

Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus globulus) Eucalyptus was first employed by Australian aborigines, who not only chewed the roots for water in the dry outback but used the leaves to treat fever, cough, and asthma, and European settlers quickly adopted it as medicine. You can also use a few drops of eucalyptus oil in boiling water or in a bath as an inhalant. Eucalyptus is often used for - Sore muscles, Insect repellant, Tension headache, Cold, Cough, Sinusitis, Rheumatoid arthritis and Strains/sprains. Warming and antiseptic oil with a strong camphorous medical smell.

Juniper Berry (Juniperus communis) Juniper Berry essential oil contains mainly pinene, myrcene, sabinene and limonene. These constituents are also found in other winter season oils including pine, cypress and fir needle. Juniper berry oil blends especially well with these oils. Juniper oil is refreshing, clarifying and uplifting to the spirit. Its physical actions are cleansing, astringent (for oily complexions) and toning. Detoxifying, cleansing and antiseptic. Do not use in pregnancy or if you suffer with kidney disease. Not suitable for children.

Orange (Citrus sinensis) Orange essential oil is obtained from the rind of the fruit and used principally as a flavoring agent. Warming, orange oil is an antidepressant, antiseptic, antispasmodic, carminative, digestive, febrifuge, phototoxic sedative, tonic. Orange oil helps spreads sunshine on gloomy thoughts and depression, has a very comforting and warming effect and dispels tension and stress and helps revive when feeling low on energy. Orange oil calms the stomach both for constipation and diarrhea. Stimulates bile which helps digestion of fats. Has a beneficial effect on colds, bronchitis and fever. Helps with the formation of collagen, vital for tissue repair and hair growth. Also helpful with muscular pains. Helps anxiety and insomnia. Possibly reduces blood cholesterol levels. Orange oil helps dry skin conditions softening wrinkles and dermatitis. An excellent skin tonic. Orange oil can make the skin photosensitive to sunlight.

Peppermint (Mentha piperata) Peppermint oil is the most extensively used of all the volatile oils, both medicinally and commercially. The characteristic anti-spasmodic action of the volatile oil is more marked in this than in any other oil and greatly adds to its power of relieving pains arising in the alimentary canal. From its stimulating and carminative properties, it is valuable in certain forms of dyspepsia, being mostly used for flatulence and colic. It may also be employed for other sudden pains and for cramp in the abdomen; wide use is made of Peppermint in cholera and diarrhea. Also as many of you know I use peppermint with you all at some point for pain relief and an anti-inflamitory  oil and great for headaches too .

Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) Rosemary is stimulating and refreshing, an invigorating pick-me-up. To help refresh and nasal passages and assist easy breathing. Excellent for hair and scalp problems including hair loss and dandruff. Do not use if pregnant or if you have high blood pressure or suffer with epilepsy.

Tea Tree (Melaleuca alternifolia)Tea-Tree is a powerful antiseptic, anti-bacterial oil which helps boost the immune system. Excellent for treating cold sores and fungal infections such as thrush. Spots, insect bites, warts, cuts and grazes.

Lemon (Citrus limonum) Lemon is a fresh sunny scent that is cold pressed from the rind itself! Lemon has antiseptic-like properties and contains compounds that have been studied for their effects on immune function. It may serve as an insect repellent and may be beneficial for the skin. Diffuse it in your house for a fresh alternative to air spays. It compliments the Oil of Oregano to neutralize the over growth of Candida. Put a few drops on a tissue and vacuum it into your vacuum bag to freshen the smell of your carpets and furniture coverings. 1 drop is also very refreshing and purifying when taken in a glass of water.

 

 

 

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 Essential  Oil Recipe Favorites of mine for you to try

Relaxation
This blend is for relaxation and stress relief. It will induce a deep relaxation of the tissues, muscles and joints, and re-establish a good energy balance.

Blend the following essential oils into one ounce of carrier oil of your choice; Massage as desired. May also be used as a bath oil.

3 drops Lavender 3 drops Tangerine 3 drops Marjoram 1 drop Chamomile

Blend to Control Pet Odor
Try this natural and aromatic spray. Pour the essential oils into a 1-oz spray bottle filled with water. Shake very vigorously several times before each use. Spray directly onto your dog, holding the bottle about 10 inches from him. Avoid spraying on the head and eyes.

  • Bath Mush

  • 1/4 cup aloe gel (the pure kind from the health food store)
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 1/4 cup sea or rock salt
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream or powdered milk
  • 2 t. jojoba oil (optional)
  • 5 drops essential oil

    Sounds like a gooey mess, doesn't it? But it works wonders on your skin. It leaves the skin feeling soft and smooth. This is a blend made right before the bath. I guess it could be stored in the refrigerator for abut a week, but that sounds a little yucky to me. All measurements are approximate since I usually just "eyeball" it. You have to stir it well when you pour it into the bath water to make it disperse, but it's worth it.

  • Rosemary Mist
    Brace yourself This sense-stimulating mist is a superb post-shower, after you've toweled off but skin is still a bit damp. In spray bottle place 5 ounces distilled water, 1 tsp olive oil, 6 drops rosemary essential oil and 1 sprig fresh rosemary. Shake well to mix -- spritz on as desired.

  • Eucalyptus oil
    An effective analgesic and often used to relieve muscle, nerve and joint pain. Apply a massage oil to the affected area before a warm bath,then massage the area again after your bath. I like a blend of Lavender and Eucalyptus for even better results. When massaging small areas like a shoulder you can double the amount of essential oils used. ex. 20-30 drops per 1 oz. carrier oil

    Essential Oils for Cold and Flu
    Here are the some of the best choices in anti viral oils.
    Ravansara, Eucalyptus Radiata and Tea Tree
    They help fight viral infections and support the immune system. Mix 10 drops in 1 Tablespoon carrier oil and massage upper chest and back. or Place 3 drops on a tissue and inhale, pause and inhale again.

  • Essential Oils for Congestion
    Eucalyptus Globulous, Eucalyptus Radiata,Rosemary, Lavender Spike and Tea Tree.
    They loosen congestion, help fight viral and bacterial infections while lifting the spirits. Mix 10 drops in 1 Tablespoon carrier oil and massage upper chest and back. or Place 3 drops on a tissue and inhale, pause and inhale again.

    Cold and Flu Fighter

  • 4 drops Sweet Eucalyptus un rectified is best
  • 4 drops Scotch Pine
  • 3 drops Lemon
    Add to a large bowl of steaming water. Covering your head lean over the bowl and inhale deeply for 2-5 minutes. May also be added to a diffuser or vaporizer. For Children Use Eucalyptus Smithi, a mild Eucalyptus for children and the elderly.

  • Essential Oils for Headache
    Peppermint, Lavender, Roman Chamomile
    Put 1 drop of essential oil on each temple and at the nape of the neck. or mix 5 drops of Lavender and 1 drop of Peppermint into 1 Tablespoon carrier oil or lotion and massage neck and shoulders.

    Essential Oils for Body Aches
    Lavender, Roman Chamomile, Sweet Marjoram
    Help to soothe aches and pains. Mix 10 drops of essential oil in 2 Tablespoons of carrier oil or lotion and massage areas of discomfort.

    Why not try these for Valentines Day
    Ylang Ylang Chocolates Essential oils can be infused into chocolates or any other sweets by placing the loose chocolates in a box then adding a piece of absorbent paper to which you have placed 1 drop of Ylang Ylang. Cover and let sit until absorbed, a few days should do it. Try other oils like Orange or Mandarin for a different twist.

  • Cellulite Blend
    This mixture stimulates circulation.

  • Eucalyptus Citriodora 2 ml
  • Lemon 2 ml
  • Cedarwood 2ml
  • Sage 2ml
  • Cypress 2 ml
  • Niaouli 2ml
  • in 100 ml Hazelnut oil
  • Apply 2-3 times per days for 30 days.

  • Bath Salt recipe.
    Ingredients include:

  • 2 C epsom salts
  • 1/2 C sea salt
  • 4-6 drops peppermint oil,
  • 2-3 drops red food coloring
  • Place 1 C of epsom salt and 1/4 C sea salt in a bowl.
  • Add 2-3 drops peppermint oil.
  • Place the remaining ingredients in a second bowl.
  • Mix all ingredients well.
  • Layer the red and white salts in a clear bottle or jar.
  • I placed the lid on the jar and then put a paper doily over the lid, tied a red ribbon and a candy cane around the lid/doily. With the red and white layering, it makes an attractive presentation. Since peppermint is an energizing scent perhaps it's a good one any time of the year .


  • Toner
  • 2 oz.Green Tea
  • 5 drops Lavender essential oil
  • 5 drops Geranium essential oil
    Mix up this bottle of tea and essential oils to balance the pH of your skin after cleansing. It's easy... it's cooling... and it leaves your skin feeling refreshed! Place the ingredients in a glass bottle. Essential oils do not dissolve in water or tea so be sure to shake this mixture well before each use to make sure the essential oils are dispersed. Use a cotton pad to apply to face and neck area after cleansing. Yum!!

  • Bath Melts

  • 2 parts cocoa butter
  • 2 parts baking soda
  • 1 part citric acid
  • powdered herbs
  • color (optional)

  • Melt the cocoa butter add color if you wish. then add powdered ingredients, stir then pour into molds. Let sit in fridge or freezer until set then pop out of molds and let sit for a day or two.

  • Fragrant Bath Fizzies

  • 1 cup baking soda
  • 1 /2 cup cornstarch
  • 1 /2 cup citric acid
  • 15 drops essential oil
  • food color, 10 drops (optional)
    Mix all ingredients in a bowl. Add food coloring to a small amount of the mix in a separate bowl. Add colored mix to remaining mix and blend. Mist the salts with a mister enough so that they hold together but not enough to start fizzing. Pack these salts into a soap mold. Flip over onto a piece of waxed paper and allow molded fizzie to dry overnight.

  • Fizzy Bath Kisses

  • Cocoa Butter--2 oz
  • Baking Soda--2 oz
  • Citric Acid--2 oz
  • Oatmeal, powdered--3 Tbsp
  • Food Color--10 drops (optional)
  • Bergamot--10 drops
  • Rose--5 drops
  • Ylang-Ylang--10 drops
    Melt cocoa butter (microwave is fine). Add food color and essential oils. Mix well. Add baking soda, citric acid and powdered oatmeal. Stir thoroughly. Pour into molds. Put into freezer to set. (This takes about 10-20 mins.) Remove from molds when set.
    Note: Use 1-2 per bath or 3-4 for extra moisturizing.


    Aromatherapy Body Powder especially for the feet

  • Mix 1 Cup Cornstarch, 1 Tablespoon Baking Soda in a jar with a tight fitting lid.
  • Add 15-20 drops of your favorite essential oils.
  • Shake well


    Buttermilk Bath Salts
    1 cup Buttermilk Powder 1 cup Sea Salt Add up to 24 drops of essential oils. Blend well, keep in a sealed jar. Use 1/2 cup per bath. This makes enough for 4 baths.
  • Ginger Body Scrub
    Use this one in the morning as the essential oils are invigorating.
  • Sea Salt 1/4 Cup
  • Cornmeal 1/4 Cup
  • Olive Oil 1/3 Cup or another base oil.
  • Ginger 2 drops
  • Peppermint 4 drops
  • Rosemary 3 drops
    Mix salt and cornmeal. Combine warmed oil and essential oils then mix with dry ingredients. Use in the shower or standing in the tub. Apply in circular motions, working from the extremities inward, working towards the center of the body and the heart. Rinse with warm water. Gently pat dry. Your skin will feel smoother and have a nice glow.

  • Spritzers

    These are easy to make just follow the guidelines below.

  • Use 4 oz. of distilled water
  • To make a facial mist use 8-10 drops of essential oils per 4 oz. of distilled water.
  • 30-40 drops per 4 oz. for a body spray
  • 80-100 drops per 4 oz. for a room spray



  • So Easy to Make Bath Salts
  • 1 cup Sea Salt
  • 1 cup Epsom Salt
  • 1 cup Baking Soda
  • Your favorite essential oils
  • Try French Lavender, Rose Geranium and Ylang Ylang Extra
  • You'll want about 6 drops of essential oils per 1/4 cup salt blend
  • Use 1/4 cup per bath. This makes enough for several baths.

  • Germ Fighter Spray

  • We've all been told to wash our hands more frequently. Here is an antiseptic, germ fighting spray to use on cuts and scrapes. May also be used as a room spray.
  • 12 drops Tea Tree
  • 6 drops Eucalyptus Unrectified
  • 6 drops Lemon
  • 2 oz. distilled water
  • Combine ingredients and add to spray bottle. Shake gently before use.

  • Cold and Flu Fighter
  • 4 drops Sweet Eucalyptus unrectified is best
  • 4 drops Scotch Pine
  • 3 drops Lemon
    Add to a large bowl of steaming water. Covering your head lean over the bowl and inhale deeply for 2-5 minutes. May also be added to a diffuser or vaporizer. For Children Use Eucalyptus Smithi, a mild Eucalyptus for children and the elderly.

  • Relaxing Lavender Honey Bath

    Did you know that Honey has a calming effect? Combined with pure essential oil of Lavender it's a yummy bath treatment. Why not try it tonight!

  • 2oz. of Honey
  • 5 drops Lavender
  • Combine in a jar.
  • use 1 -2 Tablespoons per bath.


  • Vanilla Rose Bath Fizz

    Blend one half cup baking soda and one fourth cup each cornstarch and citric acid in a glass bow. Add one teaspoon each melted cocoa butter and Vanilla essential oil and one half teaspoon Rose Otto oil. Mix well. Slowly blend in one teaspoon rose water. Pack mixture into molds, turn out on waxed paper to dry for 24 hours, then store in airtight container. Add one fizz to a warm bath and Enjoy!


    Ice Candles

    Melt one pound of paraffin in a double boiler. Cut a milk carton to height desired, center a taper candle inside, then fill with crushed ice. Add six drops Spearmint essential oil and a sprinkling of glitter to the cooling paraffin.....pour the paraffin into the carton. Let cool, then pour off the water and tear away the carton to reveal a candle that glistens like ice


    How to Make Scented Rocks

    Place rocks in a bowl or dish to scent a room. A nice alternative to potpourri!
  • 1/2 cup plain flour
  • 1/2 cup salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon essential oil (your favorite scent)
  • 2/3 cups boiling water
  • Food coloring, if desired
  • In bowl, mix dry ingredients well. Add essential oil, and boiling water to dry ingredients. (Scent will be strong, but will fade slightly when dry.)
    For colored stones, blend in food coloring, one drop at a time until desired shade is reached. Blend ingredients, and form balls into different shape and sizes to look like stones. Allow stones to dry.

    Lemon Citrus Soak

    Lemons have been used for hand and nail care for centuries. Lemon Juice and the essential oil of Lemon whitens nails while stimulating healthy growth. Try this Refreshing Citrus Soak

  • 8 oz. spring water
  • 1 Tablespoon Aloe Vera Gel
  • 10 drops Lemon eo
  • Mix and soak fingertips for 10 minutes.



    Household Cleaning

    Homemade Surface & Glass Cleaner

    1 cup white vinegar
    1 cup water
    1/4 cup rubbing alcohol
    10 drops lemon eo
    10 drops rosemary eo
    5 drops peppermint eo
    Mx all ingredients together in a spray bottle, shake well, and spritz!

    Orange Glass Shiner
    Use Orange Glass Shiner to polish any glass or mirror to a lovely finish and shine Enjoy the pleasant aroma too -- which makes it seem like you're not cleaning at all. (Well almost!)

    Yield: 8 ounces Shelf Life: Indefinite

    Ingredients:

    4 ounces water
    4 ounces apple cider vinegar
    1 tablespoon borax
    1 tablespoon orange essential oil
    1 teaspoon lemon essential oil
    Blending Procedure:
    Combine all ingredients in a heavy duty plastic spray bottle and shake well before each use. Spray on glass or mirror and wipe immediately with a clean cloth. Watch the shiny surface emerge. Note that stubborn stains like old toothpaste glop and chewing gum come off with ease, plus the aroma is pleasant and uplifting. It's best to use gloves with this cleaner and remember to shake before using the evenly incorporate the essential oils. As with all household cleaners, keep this one out of the reach of children.
    Enjoy!

    Dishwashing Liquid

    Lift your spirits while washing the dishes. Not suited for automatic dishwashers.

  • 10 drops Lemon essential oil
  • 10 dropsLavender essential oil
  • 10 drops Orange essential oil
  • liquid castile soap or other mildly scented dishwashing liquid.

    Fill a 32oz. squirt bottle with liquid soap and add the oils. Shake well.

    Kitchen Sink Scrub
  • 1/2 Cup Baking Soda
  • 1/8 Cup Vinegar
  • 5 drops Lemon essential oil
  • 5 drops Orange essentail oil
  • Combine all ingredients
  • Try Lime or Bergamot also.

  • Tub and Shower Scrub

    This recipe helps to remove and prevent mold and mildew buildup.

  • 1/2 Cup Baking Soda
  • 10 drops Tea Tree essential oil
  • 10 drops Lavender essential oil
  • 10 drops Geranium essential oil
  • Combine all ingredients and using a damp sponge or cloth, scrub bathtub and/or shower.
    For serious mildew buildup areas, combine 20 drops of Tea Tree and water in a spray bottle,
    and spray area everyday for 5 days, then 2x a week.

    ~add a few drops of cedar or rosemary oil to cotton balls and enclose them in a pillowcase, which can then be laid among your clothes. This will help keep unwanted pests from enjoying your clothes.

    ~perfumed drawer lining paper: Choose any kind of paper, cut it to size and roll the sheets together. Then seal the roll in a plastic bag with a sheet of blotting paper on which you have dropped your essential oil combinations. Leave it for about a week to allow the scent to permeate the papers. These can also be customized with anti-insect oils.


    Cornmeal Face Scrub

    Essential Oils can be incorporated into many facial products.A facial scrub to try includes:

  • 1/4 cup yogurt
  • 1/4 cup cornmeal
  • 5 drops Lavender essential oil
  • 5 drops Patchouli essential oil
  • 5 drops Grapefruit essential oil
  • Mix together and refrigerate a couple of
  • hours before using. Store in the refrigerator.


    Bath Cookies

  • ~ Do not eat these!
    2 Cups Rock Salt ½ Cup Baking Soda ½ Cup Cornstarch 2 Tablespoons Almond Oil 1 Teaspoon Vitamin E Oil 1-2 Eggs 6 Drops Essential Oil Mix together and then cut out with cookie cutters in the shape you want. Bake at 350 degree 10 - 12 minutes

  • Allow to cool. Use 1-2 per bath keep in an air tight container. These are perishable because of the eggs so use them up or give as gifts.

 

 

 

Disclaimer

The information contained on the site is for educational purposes only. It is provided to help understand the use of natural aromatic plants in the pursuit of well being whether emotional or physical. It is not provided to diagnose, prescribe, or treat any condition of the body. This information should not be used as a substitute for medical counseling with a health care professional.

 

 

Books

Reference Guide For Essential Oils

Compiled by Connie & Alan Higley   published by Abundant Health  www.abundantHealth4U.com

Essential Oils Desk Reference
Compiled by Essential Science Publishing

This is a great reference book for Young Living essential oils and products.

Discovering Your Own Magnificence
By Vae Ennis Dansie

This book uses essential oils and affirmations to deal with emotional issues. I’ve had this book for a while and recently dug it back out to read again. I forgot how much I enjoyed reading it.

Releasing Emotional Patterns with Essential Oils
By Carolyn L. Mein D.C.

This book deals with using essential oils and affirmations. It contains lots of information.

Aromatherapy
A Lifetime Guide to Healing with Essential Oils
By Valerie Gennari Cooksley

This book has lots of information on essential oils and many recipes.

The Complete Book of Essential Oils & Aromatherapy
By Valerie Ann Worwood

This book has a lot of good information on essential oils and contains may recipes.

The Fragrant Mind
By Valerie Ann Worwood

This book has a lot of recipes of blends to make to help deal with emotional issues.