Tips
Teeth Grinding Anyone?
Teeth grinding can have many different reasons from injury or misaligned bite, and other dental problems to simply “Tension & Stress”.
If your teeth grinding is related to the latter, you can try these tips:
Tip 1:
Massage jaw and neck with a blend of Lavender, Frankincense and fractionated coconut oil. Add some Marjoram, my secret ingredient, to offer even more relief! Use a dilution ratio of 3% to 5%. Apply before bedtime and after waking up in the morning.
Tip 2:
Diffuse relaxing essential oils while sleeping such as Lavender, Roman Chamomile, Vetiver or Cedarwood.
Tip 3:
Diffuse stress reducing citrus oils during the day! Pick Wild Orange, Lemon, Lime, Bergamot, or Tangerine or use a drop or two to combine a few scents in your diffuser.
Want more tips on how to reduce stress effectively?
Take a look at this online stress recovery course.
Order your Lavender/Frankincense/Marjoram soothing blend for teeth grinding now.
10ml roll-on for easy application, only $28 FREE SHIPPING!
Essential Oils and Dogs
Using Essential Oils Safely with Dogs
Just as for humans, essential oils can be wonderful tools to support the physical health and emotional wellbeing, as long as you are educated on general safety considerations, appropriate dilution ratios, and most effective application methods.
General Safety Tips
Quality of the Essential Oils
Many essential oils available in stores today are adulterated, of very poor quality, and often created synthetically in a laboratory. Those essential oils can contain many unnatural, harmful elements. Even if they are extracted from plant materials, they can contain chemicals from solvent extraction, pesticides, heavy metals, microbes, mold spores, fillers, and other unhealthy or unnatural components. Toxins in inferior oils can become culprits causing adverse reaction or side effects when used with humans and pets. Make sure your essential oils are 100% pure therapeutic grade and please don’t be fooled, only because a bottle says 100% pure it can still contain all the harmful elements mentioned above. To learn about which questions to ask and how to determine whether your essential oils are of therapeutic, medicinal grade – read this article on essential oil quality.
Let Your Dog Decide
Trust your dog’s instincts when selecting an essential oil to support their health. Let your dog sniff the essential oil from your hands first. If your dog starts drooling, whining or runs away use an alternate essential oil that has similar properties and your dog reacts positively to. Dogs just like humans are naturally drawn to essential oils that will benefit us due to their inherent frequency.
Topical Use of Essential Oils
Topical application of essential oils can offer immediate comfort, be calming and soothing. It can support the immune system, nervous system, muscles and bones, and skin.
Essential oils that are appropriately diluted can be applied along the spine, rub their ears (never put inside of ears), or even on the toes/pads (see reflexology chart for dogs). Essential oils can be applied directly to a particular area you want to support like the skin, muscle, or joint. But remember to avoid the eyes, nose, inner ears, anal, and genital areas and only use essential oils that are labeled for ingested use as your dog might lick itself and inadvertently ingest the essential oil.
Appropriate Dilution Ratios
Dogs tolerate therapeutic grade essential oils generally well but they also vary greatly in size. As a Certified Aromatherapist, I generally suggest to use the dilution ratios appropriate for infants and children for dogs, just instead of age we dilute according to weight.
For a 10 ml bottle filled with carrier oil (I prefer fractionated coconut oil) add the following amount of essential oil:
Up to 25 pounds: add 1 drop of essential oil = 0.5% dilution
25 to 50 pounds: add 2 drops of essential oil = 1% dilution
50 to 90 pounds: add 4 drops of essential oil = 2% dilution
over 90 pounds: add 6 drops of essential oil = 3% dilution
For acute use and brief periods of time, the dosage may be increased. Please only do so under the guidance of a holistic veterinarian or certified aromatherapist.
Another factor impacting the selection of essential oils and dilution ratio, is the general health of your pet, any medications it might be taking, and age. Do not apply essential oils topically on puppies under 10 weeks of age and only under appropriate guidance with senior pets and pregnant dogs.
Avoid eyes, nose, anal area, and genital areas. Flush with milk if irritation occurs.
Essential Oils NOT to Use Daily
Certain essential oils should not be used on a daily basis. Those include: Wintergreen, Thyme, Clove, Cassia, Camphor, and Oregano. They can be used occasionally to support their health but not for prolonged periods of time.
Special Note:
Keep in mind that if a dog is toxic from medications or has not been on a natural raw food diet then it is best to use greater dilution ratios at first and apply only once a day for the first week. As with humans, the essential oils will support the body with eliminating toxins. When too many toxins are shed out too quickly, it can make your dog feel nauseous or lethargic.
Essential Oils NOT to Use Topically
Melaleuca also known as Tea Tree Essential Oil
Melaleuca essential oil has phenolic compounds that can be more difficult for a dog’s body to process. The oral toxic dose of phenol in dogs is about 0.22 grams per pound of body weight. 4 drops of Melaleuca are about 0.22 grams. So Melaleuca can be toxic but generally only in high doses. Some dog owners have experienced adverse reactions to Melaleuca that’s why I generally recommend to select an alternative essential oil.
Eucalyptus Essential Oil
Eucalyptus, when ingested in sufficient amounts, can be an irritant to the gastrointestinal system and cause discomfort, vomiting, and diarrhea. It is also a neurotoxin and can cause neurological symptoms as well, such as depression, confusion, and seizures. As dogs may lick themselves, please do not use Eucalyptus essential oil topically. When diffusing, make sure it is Eucalyptus radiate (there are over 900 species of eucalyptus). Please read this article for more information.
Aromatic Use of Essential Oils with and around Dogs
Essential oils can be used aromatically to support moods, help a dog feel calmer and less anxious, improve sleep, support the respiratory system, support the immune system, and the nervous system, and also cleanse and purify the air.
Tips for Aromatic Use
There are different options on having your dog benefit from essential oils aromatically. You can use an ultrasonic dffuser, apply a drop to the dog collar, put a drop on a bandana tied around the neck, spray a mist over the dog bed, create a spray with distilled water and a few drops of essential oil and spray into the air.
When diffusing essential oils make sure the area is well ventilated and that your dog has the option to leave the room where the essential oil is being diffused. Again, I can’t stress enough to “listen” to your dog and watch its behavior when you are using an essential oil aromatically. If your dogs reacts in a negative manner, select an essential oil with similar benefits your dog reacts positively to.
Take Breaks and Switch it Up
I can’t emphazise enough the importance of taking breaks and alternating essential oils. You do not want your dog to develop any sensitivities and you like to see the greatest benefit. Taking breaks and changing it up is an essential step. After using an essential oil for about a week, take three days break. If continued use it necessary, take a week break after 3-4 weeks.
Change it up! The effects of essential oils are all related to their chemistry. Many essential oils have similar chemical profiles, so desired effects will also be similar. Find essential oils that have similar desired effects and keep switching it up a bit for sustained long term benefits.
Common Uses of Essential Oils with Dogs
Skin Care
Essential oils are wonderful for supporting your dog’s skin. Use Lavender or Frankincense for minor skin irritations and to clean dog’s skin. You can apply your essential oil blend to a cotton ball and dab the dog’s skin. Another great idea is adding a drop to your dog’s natural dog shampoo. To encourage healthy blood-clotting use Helichrysum. Other options to support the skin is creating your blend in a spray bottle.
Digestive Support
Some of the best essential oils to support the digestive system are ginger, peppermint, and fennel. Lavender is calming and soothing to the nerves in the abdomen area. Lightly rub one to two drops of your blend directly to the stomach area or use a spray bottle and then gently rub in. Start with only once a day, then work your way up to max. three times per day. Remember about taking breaks and switching it up!
Respiratory Support
Aromatic use of essential oils can offer great respiratory support for your dog. You can diffuse single oils or a blend of peppermint, eucalyptus, lemon, and rosemary (one drop each is sufficient), and diffuse in the room, mist the dog bed or apply a drop to the dog’s bandana. Dogs also have vitaflex points on the bottoms of their paws and between toes. Apply the essential oil diluted for your dog’s size to the bottom of the paws where indicated for respiratory support.
Tick Bites
After removal of a tick, dab a cotton ball with Lavender (diluted appropriately to your dog’s size) on the affected area twice a day.
Flea and Tick Repellent Mist or Shampoo
Mist: Use a 16 oz glass spray bottle, fill with distilled water, add 8 to 16 drops of Rosemary, Lavender, Peppermint and Lemongrass essential oil. Shake well before use. Lightly spray dog, avoiding the eyes. Reapply as needed.
Shampoo: Use 8 oz of an all-natural dog shampoo and add 2 drops each of Rosemary, Lavender, Peppermint and Lemongrass – avoid eyes when shampooing dog.
Support Ear Health
Create a blend diluted to your dog’s weight with Lavender, Basil, and Geranium essential oil. After cleaning the ear with a natural cleanser, apply the blend and lightly massage in behind the ears, at the base of the ears. Do not use inside ear canal. Repeat twice a day as needed to support ear health.
Loss of Appetite
Please read this article for more information.
Support against Seasonal Threats
Blending Lavender, Lemon, and Peppermint offers great support when seasonal challenges start affecting your dog’s respiratory system. Diffuse during the day or at night (2 drops Lavender, 2 drops Lemon, 1 drop Peppermint), apply 1-2 drops of the blend to your dog’s bed or add to a bandana that’s tied around the neck.
If you dog suffers from allergies you may want to consider a raw food diet. Many allergies are caused by diet.
Immune System Support
A great blend for immune system support is a blend of Wild Orange, Clove, Cinnamon, Eucalyptus, and Rosemary. Dilute appropriate to your dog’s weight and apply a drop under bottom of paws or onto spine. This blend is also great when diffused in the room where your dog sleeps. Make sure the diffuser has an intermittent setting, the area is well ventilated and that your dog can leave the room where it is being diffused. Other essential oils you may want to consider to support your dog’s immune system are Vetiver, Ginger, Rosemary and Peppermint.
Joint and Muscle Support
Some of the best essential oils for muscle and joint support are Frankincense, Copiaba, Peppermint, German Chamomile, Marjoram, and Wintergreen. Create a blend appropriate for your dog’s weight, apply a few drops to your hands, rub along the spine or problematic areas to ease discomfort. Another option is to create a spray, apply to the area, and lightly massage in.
Support Nervous System and Mood
Essential oils are wonderful tools when it comes to affecting moods. Aromatic use has the most immediate effect but topical use is also a good option. Diffuse in room, apply to collar or bandana, or spray on bedding.
- For calming: Lavender or a blend of Lavender, Sweet Marjoram, Roman Chamomile, Ylang yYang, and Sandalwood.
- For moodiness: Frankincense or a blend of Spruce, Ho Wood, Frankincense, and Blue Tansy.
- For confidence: Vetiver
- For sad dog: Apply 1 drop of Frankincense on spine and 1 drop of lavender on paws.
- Essential oils with other calming properties: Geranium, Sandalwood, Ylang Ylang, the Joyful blend Elevation. The joyful blend contains the essential oils of lavandin, tangerine, elemi, lemon myrtle, melissa, ylang ylang, osmanthus, and sandalwood
As a Certified Aromatherapist, one of my main tasks is creating custom aromatherapy products and essential oil blends for people and pets, taking into consideration age, weight, health history, any sensitivities, and desired benefits. Many custom 10 ml blends range from only $20 to $28 and you can be assured that the highest quality essential oils are used with appropriate dilution.
I hope this article answered some of your questions and was detailed enough for you to make an informed decision on which oils you can use safely with and around your dog. Please share a link to this web page with other dog lovers to keep our pets safe!
Safe Use of Essential Oils with and around Cats
If cats are part of your family and you like using essential oils to support your family’s health, please read this article as it introduces you to the safe use of essential oils with and around your cats. It also provides important tips regarding precautions you can take with essential oils that may be potentially toxic to your cat but would benefit your own health. Learn how to use these essential oils in a safe and responsible manner that does not negatively impact your cat’s health.
Why can essential oils be a problem for cats?
Cats are sensitive to essential oils for a few reasons.
- Cats have a very acute sense of smell.
Cats have twice as many receptors in their olfactory ephithelium than people and also have a scent organ in the roof of their mouth. - Cats have delicate and thin skin.
Anything applied topically will have quicker absorption into the bloodstream. Remember, when diffusing essential oils into the air, there will still be absorption through the skin, just in lower ratio than what is absorbed through inhalation. - Cats lack important liver enzymes that humans posses.
Cats can’t efficiently metabolize some of the compounds in certain essential oils, which can lead to toxic build-up in their bodies over time (glucuronosyltransferase (UGT) enzymes).
Does this mean that all essential oils should be avoided?
No. But perhaps the question that needs to be asked first is what is the quality of the essential oils used? Many essential oils available in stores today are adulterated, of very poor quality, and often created synthetically in a laboratory. Those essential oils can contain many unnatural, harmful elements. Even if they are extracted from plant materials, they can contain chemicals from solvent extraction, pesticides, heavy metals, microbes, mold spores, fillers, and other unhealthy or unnatural components. Since we know cats are highly sensitive to chemicals and artificial ingredients, it could be that the toxins in inferior oils are the real culprits when cat owners have had bad experiences even with essential oils from the “SAFE” list (see below). 100% pure therapeutic grade essential oils can benefit your cat’s health when used appropriately. Please don’t be fooled, only because a bottle says 100% pure it can still contain all the harmful elements mentioned above. To learn about which questions to ask and how to determine whether your essential oils are of therapeutic, medicinal grade – read this article on essential oil quality.
Essential Oils that can be potentially toxic to cats
Cats can’t efficiently metabolize phenols, ketones, d-limonene and alpha-pinene, so over time toxic buildup can occur.
Examples of essential oils containing higher amounts of Phenols – Wintergreen, Anise, Birch, Clove, Basil, Tarragon, Fennel, Oregano, Thyme, Mountain Savory, Peppermint, Melaleuca (Tea Tree), Calamus, Cinnamon Bark, Citronella, Marjoram, Nutmeg, Eucalyptus citriodora, Parsley, Ylang Ylang. These all contain greater than 8% phenols.
Examples of essential oils containing higher amounts of Ketones – Western Red Cedar, Idaho Tansy, Marigold, Spearmint, Thuja, Hyssop, Davana, Sage, Dill, Yarrow, Peppermint. All these oils contain greater than 20% ketones.
Example of essential oils containing higher amounts of D-Limonene – Grapefruit, Bitter Orange, Orange, Tangerine, Mandarin, Lemon, Celery Seed, Lime, Bergamot, Angelica, Dill, Neroli, Blue Tansy, Citronella and Nutmeg.
Examples of essential oils containing higher amounts of Alpha-pinene – Cypress, Cistus, Pine, Douglas fir, Juniper, Myrtle, Rosemary Verbenon, Silver Fir, Angelica, Nutmeg, Eucalyptus, Dill, Spruce. These are all monoterpenes that have alpha-pinene concentrations greater than 15%.
Essential Oils that may be used with cats with CAUTION and only by a holistic veterinarian or certified aromatherapist: Black Pepper, Cardamon, Carrot Seed, Celery Seed, Cinnamon Bark, Citronella, Clove, Galbanum, Ginger, Juniper, Palmarosa, Petitgrain, and Western Red Cedar.
If your cat has liver or kidney trouble make sure to avoid essential oils high in Ketones, Phenols, D-Limonene, and Alpha-pinene.
Which Essential Oils Can Be Used Safely with and around Cats?
The following essential oils are generally considered safe with and around cats.
- Clary Sage Essential Oil
- Elemi Essential Oil
- Frankincense Essential Oil
- Geranium Essential Oil
- Helichrysum Essential Oil
- Lavender Essential Oil (NOT Lavendin)
- Roman Chamomile Essential Oil
- Valerian Essential Oil
7 Essential Safety Tips for Cat Owners
Just because an essential oil is toxic to you catsdoes not mean that you can never use it in your home to support your own health. However, it does mean that certain precautions will need to be taken to ensure your cat is not exposed to the essential oil.
Here’s a list of tips to help keep your cat safe:
- Pick from the “Safe” list whenever possible.
Select essential oils from the “Safe” list whenever possible to support the health and wellness of your family, including your cat. Make sure it is a 100% pure therapeutic grade essential oil, free of fillers, pesticides, heavy metals, microbes, mold spores, fungi, or other harmful ingredients.
- Diffuse using common sense.
When diffusing an essential oil from the “Safe” list, make sure to only diffuse small amounts for limited periods of time, and make sure your cat has the freedom to leave the room if it wants. If you want to inhale an essential oil that is potentially toxic to your cat but would be beneficial to support your respiratory system for instance (Eucalyptus, Peppermint, Clove, Melaleuca), try to diffuse in your car using an ultrasonic USB diffuser, at work, use a personal inhaler (making essential oil inhalers is a great way of enjoying the aromatic benefits of essential oils without diffusing it.), or use a room your cat never spends time in. This way you can fully benefit from the inhaled use of essential oils and keep your pet safe. Never diffuse an essential oil that is potentially toxic to your cat in a room it spends time in.
- Don’t pet your cat after touching essential oils.
If there is any residual essential oil on your hands and you pet your cat, the oil will get on its fur. Cats lick themselves for cleansing purposes. Your cat would be in danger of ingesting the essential oil from its fur. So be cautious and wash your hands well after using essential oils. In addition, make sure to keep the skin that you applied an essential oil to covered (long pants, long sleeved shirt, etc.) so that your cat does not rub up against you and accidentally transfers the essential oil onto its fur. Apply a drop under the soles of your feet in the morning and put on socks/shoes immediately. Click here for more information about topical use of essential oils.
- Store essential oils away from pets and kids.
Cats are very curious, mischievous, and playful capable of getting into almost anything. Even if your essential oils are sealed tightly, there will be residual oil on the bottle that your cat could lick off or get on its fur. Keep your essential oils stored in a box or cabinet your cat can not open. Same rule goes for young children. Keep your essential oils locked away and out of reach.
- Be cautious cleaning with essential oils.
Essential oils are wonderful additions to natural cleaning products but use caution and common sense, making sure your cat does not rubs against the surface you cleaned or licks it, to avoid ingesting essential oils.
- Don’t leave out dishes after cooking with essential oils.
For those of you who love to enhance flavor and therapeutic value of your dishes with essential oils, it is important to put away or clean these dishes immediately after use. Make sure your cat doesn’t eat leftover food that was prepared with essential oils.
- Appropriately dilute for topical use with cats.
Essential oils are very potent and powerful. If you have decided to use an essential oil from the “Safe” list topically to support your cat’s health be sure to highly dilute the essential oil. I generally use the safety considerations for use of essential oils with babies. which means a 0.5% dilution ratio.
Which essential oils support which body systems?
- Clary Sage Essential Oil
Endocrine System - Elemi Essential Oil
Immune System, Respiratory System, Skin - Frankincense Essential Oil
Immune System, Nervous System, Skin, Emotional Balance - Geranium Essential Oil
Skin, Emotional Balance - Helichrysum Essential Oil
Skin, Cardiovascular System, Muscles and Bones - Lavender Essential Oil (NOT Lavendin)
Skin, Nervous System, Cardiovascular System, Emotional Balance - Roman Chamomile Essential Oil
Skin, Digestive System, Cardiovascular System, Nervous System, Muscles and Bones, Emotional Balance - Valerian Essential Oil
Emotional Balance, Digestive System, Cardiovascular System, Skin
As a Certified Aromatherapist, one of my main tasks is creating custom aromatherapy products and essential oil blends for people and pets, taking into consideration age, weight, health history, any sensitivities, and desired benefits. Many custom 10 ml roll-on blends range from only $20 to $28 and you can be assured that the highest quality essential oils are used with appropriate dilution.
I hope this article answered some of your questions and was detailed enough for you to make an informed decision on which oils you can use safely around cats and offer you safe options to maximize the therapeutic benefits for yourself and your family. Please share a link to this web page with other cat lovers to keep our beautiful felines safe!
Eucalyptus Essential Oil and Safe Use Around Dogs
Yesterday, in my stress reduction workshop, one lady asked about Euclayptus Essential Oil and toxicity with dogs. Here are some important tips and insights.
Eucalyptus, when ingested in sufficient amounts, can be an irritant to the gastrointestinal system and cause discomfort, vomiting, and diarrhea. It is also a neurotoxin and can cause neurological symptoms as well, such as depression, confusion, and seizures. If your dog has INGESTED any part of an eucalyptus plant or product containing eucalyptus, it is important to visit a veterinarian as soon as possible.
So be cautious when using Eucalyptus essential oil for yourself, making sure the dog does not lick your hands or any body part you applied an Eucalyptus essential oil to or a product containing Eucalyptus.
When it comes to DIFFUSING Eucalyptus in a home with dogs, make sure it is Eucalyptus radiata (there are over 900 species of Euclyptus) and that it is of therapeutic, medicinal grade quality. There are so many cheap essential oils on the market that contain chemicals from solvent extraction such as hexane or acetone, pesticides, microbes, mold spores, and other toxic components (read article about essential oil quality). Make sure when diffusing essential oils around pets, that the area is well ventilated, and LISTEN to your dog. If your dog leaves the room when you diffuse a particular essential oil, your dog is telling you that it is not good for him or her. When they are drawn to you wearing a certain essential oil or lay near the diffuser, their body is telling them, it will be good for them.
To learn more about safe use of essential oils with dogs, please read the following article and don’t hesitate to reach out with questions. Safe Use of Essential Oils with Dogs.
Poppy – Perfume and Therapeutic Essential Oil Blend
Poppy “Be You”
Essential Oil Perfume & Therapeutic Blend
Featuring multi-faceted layers, from bright and sparkling top notes, to deeply calming and centering base notes for…
Self Belief
10ml Roll-on Blend – $36.00 – FREE Shipping
Feel Love, Comfort & Beauty!
“The proceeds of the sale of this blend benefit my daughter Poppy and her journey as an artist. It is a tribute to the courage and strength she has exhibited, following her heart, overcoming tremendous challenges, being truly unique and simply herself, standing up for others and injustice no matter the personal risk or repercussion — a truly wonderful human being!”
Designed by Scarlet Strapko
NAHA Certified Professional Aromatherapist®
Contains 100% Certified Pure Cedarwood, Vetiver, Patchouli, Ylang Ylang, Marjoram, Copaiba, Lemon, and Neroli Essential Oils.
Now, also available in store at the OM Shoppe, Sarasota, Florida
Quality is Key with Essential Oils
Quality is key when it comes to essential oils. It directly impacts how effective the essential oil will be and the benefit you will experience. High quality, 100% pure therapeutic grade essential oils are also the safest essential oils to use.
If you are serious about your health, don’t compromise when it comes to quality. There are several factors you should be aware of before using any essential oil. Where did the plants grow that are used to make the essential oil? How were they cultivated (organic farming vs. treatment with pesticides and herbicides)? Are they harvested properly and at the right time? Which distillation method / extraction methods were used? Are the essential oils being tested? The essential oils I use come from plants that are grown in their indigenous environment (and without use of any pesticides or harmful chemicals), harvested properly and at the right time, and are either steam distilled or compression extracted. EVERY BATCH of essential oil is tested with Gas Chromatography, Mass Spectrometry, FTIR, Refractive Index, Optical Rotation, Specific Gravity, Organoleptic testing, Stability testing, Heavy metal testing, TPC/Microbial testing, Pesticide analysis, Chiral GC, Istope Carbon 14, Biochemical Pairing (ARC Plots), Taxonomy, VOC (volatile carbon analysis), Thin Layer Chromatography, and LC/LCMS. This rigorous testing ensures that every essential oil bottle is 100% pure, medicinal grade and that every drop from every bottle has the same potency and consistency.
Potency Begins With the Seed
The proper seed variety (species) and even chemotype for particular plants must be carefully selected so that the distinct molecular profile of the aromatic compounds produced by the plant can be achieved. For example, there are many different plant varieties and chemotypes for rosemary. The chemotype depicts the level of particular compounds within the oil composition which will determine specific health benefits.
Harvesting the Right Part of the Plant
The environment plays a key role in the potency or therapeutic value of the plant. Growing season, elevation, climate, moisture, soil, terrain, and pH all factor into the quality or potency of the essential oil produced. It is also essential that the right part of the plant be harvested. The aromatic compounds from the leaves of the plant will differ from what is produced in the flowers. For example, when you use the yellow flowering tops of the Helichrysum italicum plant from Corsica you will harvest the most dependable therapeutic benefits, but many essential oil producers will harvest the leaves and stalks as well to increase the oil yield of this delicate crop thereby increasing their profitability. This completely changes the composition of the essential oil.
Where Essential Oils are Sourced Matters
The best essential oils come from artisans who grow aromatic crops in the indigenous soils of their land and follow stringent growing and harvesting quality standards. Plants grown in traditional or indigenous environments yield better results because the natural elements specific to that region promote a more therapeutic profile of the aromatic compounds produced by the plant. For example, Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) essential oil is indigenous to the Provence region of France. The high altitudes at which lavender is grown results in the plant having higher ester and sesquiterpene alcohol content, thereby increasing its therapeutic benefits. You simply cannot duplicate the rocky soil and Mediterrean growing conditions that are specific to this region anywhere else. Although lavender grows readily in the United States, the therapeutic values are not as beneficial because the growing conditions that exist in its native land cannot be duplicated. Where your oils are sourced matters.
Take a look at the oils you have been using, see if the manufacturer provides information about sourcing, distillation methods, and testing methods. This will help you determine whether your oils are of therapeutic, medicinal grade quality or not.
If you are unsure please feel free to contact me and I’ll be happy to help you. In addition, I offer all my clients the option to purchase essential oils directly through me and also receive custom blends made just for you! This way you can ensure that the blend is appropriate for your age, any chronic conditions that have to be considered, other medication you might be taking, appropriate dosage, and delivery method.
Working with an aromatherapist will ensure that your experience with essential oils will be positive and rewarding.
Don’t know where to start? Not sure what quality grade the essential oils are you are currently using? Want to try a sample?
Please contact me. I’ll be happy to help you.
Bath Salt Soaks – Pamper Your Body & Soul
Pamper Yourself with a Bath Salt Soak
Aromatic baths are a wonderful natural remedy to support physical and emotional wellness. The salts alone already have many therapeutic benefits. Himalayan , Dead Sea, Mediterranean Sea and the Great Salt Lake in Utah are some of the most popular salts. The salts will change the osmotic balance of the bath water, allowing your skin to absorb more water. Magnesium sulphate present in salts, has anti-inflammatory properties and helps the body to stay healthy by avoiding cellular breakdown. Phosphates will soften the skin and help exfoliate. Sea salts also stimulate circulation and help to relax tense muscles. Your bath salt soak can encourage deep relaxation and relief from stress.
Formulate your bath salt soak to your body’s needs by adding essential oils offering properties you are looking for.
1 cup of sea salt -> add 10 drops of essential oil
Essential Oils NOT RECOMMENDED for use in baths: Basil, Bay, Benzoin, Bergamot, Black Pepper, Clove Bud, Cinnamon, Lemon, Lemongrass, May Chang, Marjoram, Nutmeg, Orange, Oregano, Peppermint, Pine, Rosemary, Sage, Spearmint, Tarragon, Thyme
Relaxing Bath Soak: 2 drops Frankincense, 2 drops Roman Chamomile, 4 drops Lavender, 4 drops Ylang Ylang or Geranium
Achy Joint Soak: 4 drops Juniper Berry, 2 drops Lavender, 2 drops Cypress, 2 drops Frankincense
Enjoy Making Your Bath Soaks!! Pamper Yourself a little!!
New Year’s Resolutions
NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTIONS –who doesn’t have them?
We all have good intentions to make changes when a new year starts but often we just can’t stick with it. So here is my New Year’s Resolutions Kit: FORGIVE — forgive yourself, forgive others, be able to let go of things that keep holding you back. MOTIVATE — stay motivated to make the changes happen you want to make in your life, your health, your job, your relationships. CHEER — feel positive and inspired! Trust in yourself, be strong, be bold, be fearless and make it happen!
Contact me to receive this special kit for only $49 — free shipping!
Pampering Ideas with Awesome DIY Recipes
Like to pamper yourself or a loved one or simply have a fun afternoon with family or friends? Simply follow these easy recipes and feel pampered for weeks to come!
Espom Salt Soaks and Baths
Fizzy Bath Bombs
Frankicense & Wild Orange Sugar Scrub
Soothing Face Masks
Foot Spa Treatment
and more!
What You Should Know When Using Essential Oils for Dogs
Essential oils are a wonderful tool to support your dog’s health naturally. Consult with a Holistic Vet, Certified Aromatherapist, or use other reliable sources to find the perfect oils for your dog to support his or her vitality, overall health, skin, muscles and bones, digestive system, respiratory system, and emotional wellness.
This article covers some general safety tips when using essential oils with dogs.
Use Only 100% Pure Therapeutic Grade Essential Oils
The quality of an essential oil greatly impacts how safe it is to use and also how effective it will be. You will see the greatest results when using 100% pure therapeutic grade essential oils. Please read my article on essential oil quality and safety to see whether the essential oils you are using are of therapeutic, medicinal grade quality – read article.
Dilute Essential Oils According to Your Dog’s Size
Dogs tolerate essential oils generally well but they vary greatly in size. Use small amounts of essential oil and dilute with fractionated coconut oil or other carrier oil according to your dogs weight. I personally use the guideline for use of essential oils for children, for diluting essential oils for dogs. For example, if your dog weighs less than 20 pounds, I will use the dilution ratio for babies, of 0.5%.
Here is a general guideline for dilution ratios (for a 10ml bottle with fractionated coconut oil)
Up to 25 pounds: add 1 drop of essential oil = 0.5% dilution
20 pounds to 50 pounds: add 2 drops of essential oil = 1% dilution
50-90 pounds: add 4 drops of essential oil = 2% dilution
over 90 pounds: add 6 drops of essential oils = 3% dilution
Tip: Prepare your diluted oil in a glass bottle. Depending on what you want to address chose a bottle with an orifice diffuser, roll-on bottle, or small fine mist spray bottle (always make sure to avoid eyes, inner ears, and other sensitive body parts – see below). Always blend your oils according to your dog’s weight. Dilute even more for toy breeds, old dogs, and skin sensitive dogs. Be very cautious with puppies under 10 weeks of age, old dogs, and pregnant dogs.
Listen to Your Dog
Dogs usually love essential oils. They often perk up as soon as you open an essential oil bottle. When first introducing a new essential oil to your dog, let your dog sniff the essential oil from your hands first. If your dog starts drooling, whining or runs away use another oil that has similar properties and your dog reacts positively to. There are many essential oils that have similar chemical compositions and can achieve the same results. Choose an essential oil your dog likes, they will be drawn to what is good for them.
Areas to Avoid
Certain body parts should be avoided as an essential oil could cause irritation. Keep essential oils away from eyes, nose, inner ears, anal area, and genital areas. If you accidentally get some essential oil on a sensitive area, flush with milk or wipe off with a cloth soaked in another oil (vegetable oil, olive oil, etc).
Essential Oils You Should NOT Use Daily AND with Caution
Best results with essential oils are achieved when incorporated into a daily routine (see below about taking breaks) but there are certain essential oils that should not be used daily.
Essential oils you should only use occasionally are Wintergreen, Thyme, Clove, Cassia, Camphor, and Oregano.
Melaleuca Essential Oil (also commonly known as Tea Tree Essential Oil) has Phenolic compounds that can be more difficult for a dog’s body to process. The oral toxic dose of phenol in dogs is about 0.22 grams per pound of body weight. 4 drops of Melaleuca are equivalent to about 0.22 grams. So Melaleuca can be toxic in high doses but personally, as an Aromatherapist, I do not recommend using Melaleuca / Tea Tree essential oils with dogs.
There are special considerations when using Eucalyptus essential oils around dogs.
Eucalyptus, when ingested in sufficient amounts, can be an irritant to the gastrointestinal system and cause discomfort, vomiting, and diarrhea. It is also a neurotoxin and can cause neurological symptoms as well, such as depression, confusion, and seizures. If your dog has INGESTED any part of eucalyptus plant or product containing eucalyptus, it is important to visit a veterinarian as quickly as possible.
So be cautious when using Eucalyptus essential oil for yourself, making sure the dog does not lick your hands or any body part you applied an Eucalyptus essential oil to or a product containing Eucalyptus.
When it comes to DIFFUSING Eucalyptus in a home with dogs, make sure it is Eucalyptus radiata (there are over 900 species of Euclyptus) and that it is of therapeutic, medicinal grade quality. There are so many cheap essential oils on the market that contain chemicals from solvent extraction such as hexane or acetone, pesticides, microbes, mold spores, and other toxic components (read article about essential oil quality). Make sure when diffusing essential oils around pets, that the area is well ventilated, and LISTEN to your dog. If your dog leaves the room when you diffuse a particular essential oil, your dog is telling you that it is not good for him or her. When they are drawn to you wearing a certain essential oil or lay near the diffuser, their body is telling them, it will be good for them.
What to Consider When Starting to Use Essential Oils
Essential oils support the body in ridding it of toxins. Keep in mind, as we do with humans, that if a dog is toxic from medications or has not been on a natural raw food diet then it is best to use less essential oil at first. As with humans, the essential oils will support the body in shedding out toxins. When too many toxins are shed out too quickly it might make your dog not feel well.
Taking Breaks is Important!
Make sure to take BREAKS! My general suggestion is after 7 days take 2-3 break, then repeat cycle if necessary; after using an essential oil for 2-3 cycles take one week break.
As with everything in life, use good common sense, pick the highest quality essential oils, and consult with a person who has experience with using essential oils (holistic veterinarian or certified aromatherapist) to get the best results incorporating them into your dog’s care.
How Safe are Essential Oils?
by Scarlet Strapko
Published 03/28/2016 on Apple News / Essential Oils Channel
Essential oils seem to pop up everywhere, so many brands, so many different oils to chose from. The main question remains, how safe are essential oils. The simple answer is, it very much depends on the quality of the essential oil and the users experience and education on essential oils.
The quality of an essential oil is determined by a variety of factors, the central one being the sourcing of the plants used to create an essential oil. Just imagine, a plant grown on a field where heavy metals are in the soil, treated with pesticides, in an environment not native to the plant – this is not a healthy scenario for what should be used in essential oil production. The best essential oils come from plants that grow in their indigenous environment as the soil, water, and climate ensure the growth of a plant rich in its chemical constituents. Pair that with organic farming and harvesting at the proper time, and voilà you have the best source material for an essential oil.
But it doesn’t stop there, sourcing the right plant material is just the beginning. There are various methods on how essential oils are extracted from plant material. Only two methods that are safe in creating a therapeutic grade essential oil, steam distillation or compression extraction. These methods are completely natural. Depending on the type of plant material it can take over 20 hours to distill one batch of essential oil. Time consuming but safe and most definitely the healthiest method to create an essential oil. Some companies prefer to go the faster and cheaper route by using something called solvent extraction where a chemical such as acetone or hexane are used to extract the essential oil.
After distillation, for safety purposes, every batch of essential oil should be laboratory tested to ensure the essential oils has the proper chemical constituents, at the right levels, hasn’t been adulterated, and does not contain any heavy metals, microbes, mold or fungus spores, or anything else that does not belong in a 100% pure therapeutic grade essential oil.
Don’t be fooled, only because an essential oil is labeled “100% pure” does not a guarantee it is truly100% pure, and that the sourcing, distillation, and testing has been performed as described in this article. A first warning signal can be when an essential oil lable says “100% pure” and then in fine print reads “not for topical use” or “do not ingest” (although there are a few essential oils that even in the highest quality should not be ingested). Research the brand you have been using, see whether they publish their sourcing, distillation, and testing methods. If not, find a brand that does publish the information you are looking for as it very much impacts the safety and effectiveness of the essential oil. More experienced essential oil users are often able to distinguish a high quality essential oil from a poor quality essential oil simply by its aroma.
Last but not least, the more educated you are as a user, the safer and the more satisfying the results. Find a good book and online resource, like myoilguide.com, to learn about essential oils and safe application methods. Always read the label on every essential oil bottle and adhere to its instructions. Pregnant women, people with medical conditions, and those under a doctor’s care should always consult with their physician before using essential oils. Use extra care when using essential oils with children and older people (always dilute appropriately and skin test). Connecting with someone who is experienced in using essential oils is a great way to get the most benefits from integrating essential oils into your life, and also the safest.
Supporting Hormonal Balance with Essential Oils
Supporting Hormonal Balance with Essential Oils
Essential oils wonderful in the way they can support your body and your endocrine system. If we can embrace a natural, non-toxic and synthetic-free approach to lower toxicity in the body, we can better support hormonal balance and live a healthier lifestyle.
To reduce toxicity in the body, I’ve switched most of my personal care items (soaps, shampoo, conditioner, facial care products, body lotion, deodorant, toothpaste, etc.) as well as cleaning products and laundry soap to a natural line of products that is infused with high quality essential oils (contact me and I can send you an overview of the items I’m using). I also drink one drop of Lemon essential oil daily (only use certified pure essential oils labeled for internal use) in 4 oz of water every morning before eating or drinking anything else.
In addition to reducing toxicity it can be extremely beneficial to incorporate a group of essential oils called adaptogens. These essential oils are unique as they are both stimulating and relaxing, they will adapt to your body’s needs. Clary Sage, Basil, Lavender, Lemon, Geranium, and Lemongrass belong to the group of adaptogen essential oils that are very beneficial to support hormonal balance. I personally use Clary Sage every morning and evening applying one drop under soles of my feet and one drop to the back of my neck (the Suboccipital Triangle).
Reducing toxicity and incorporating Clary Sage into my daily regimen have greatly contributed to supporting the hormonal balance of my body. Don’t hesitate to contact me with any questions you may have.
How to Reduce Your Exposure to Toxins
Women on Average Put 515 Chemicals on Their Body Every Morning
Ever thought about how you start your morning using shampoo, conditioner, body soap, body lotion, deodorant, facial care products, make-up, and perfume that you are basically loading your body with toxic chemicals?
Many of these toxins can cause side effects such as allergies, rashes, eye irritation, affect the mouth and throat, hormonal disruption, changes to cell structures, respiratory problems, headaches, dizziness, nausea, kidney damage, and can be linked to cancer.
I’ve found an interesting article at Daily Mail that details all the chemicals that are contained in many personal care products. That’s why I’ve changed to all natural alternatives for many of the products mentioned. And I didn’t just change personal care products but also cleaning products, laundry detergent and replaced dryer sheets with all natural dryer balls.
The most astounding experience for me has been that all natural products are not only healthier for me and my family but also work better. My laundry is cleaner than ever, smells amazing, my skin is as beautiful as when I was in my early 20’s, my hair looks healthy and strong, and it just feels good to know that I’m doing something positive that directly impacts the health and wellness of our family.
I’ve got many tips for you on how to reduce your toxic load, so if you are interested in learning more and like to get a catalog with all the products I’m using, just contact me.
I’ll be teaching a class at my house in Bradenton FL on Sunday March 20th from 3 pm until 4 pm. You’ll get a chance to see and sample all the different products I’m using for cleaning, laundry, and all my personal care and beauty products. As a little gift you’ll get some conditioner, shampoo and toothpaste to take home and try. Simply text me at 941-504-1968 to RSVP.
Summer Tip – Repell Mosquitoes Naturally
Summer is here and so are mosquitoes, at least in many areas around the country, especially in Florida where I live. If you are like me and a mosquito magnet, you might want to take a look at an essential oil repellent blend. But first, have you ever wondered why some people attract mosquitoes more than others? Studies have shown the insects are attracted to sweat, lactic acid, uric acid, and octenol. When you are sweating you’ll produce more octenol, attracting mosquitoes. Blood type can also influence how likely you are to get bitten. Research shows that people with Type 0 blood are twice as likely to get bitten as those with Type B.
Before I discovered essential oils, I would purchase mosquito repellents but never liked the smell or feel of them. I always worried about the toxins I was applying to my skin as well as breathing in the fumes during application. Then I discovered that essential oils work really well to repel insects. The repellent blend contains Skimmia Laureola, Catnip Plant, Amyris Bark, African Sandalwood, Cabrueva Balsam, Wild Orange Peel, White Fir Needle, Cedarwood, Citronella Herb, Eucalyptus Leaf/Stem, Hawaiian Sandalwood, Genet Absolute, and Rose Flower essential oils in a base of Fractionated Coconut Oil. I love the fresh and citrusy smell and I’m so happy to have an insect repellent on hand which can be used safely by everyone in the family. The bottle is small, easy to carry in my purse, and it lasts for a long time.
Keep Your Kids Healthy in School
Do you have kids in pre-school, kindergarten, school or even college? Then you know the struggle as a parent to keep your kids healthy. As my daughter has a rare illness which gets three times worse when she gets sick with a cold, keeping her healthy is one of my main concerns. She used to be on antibiotics 5 to 6 times a year. Not any more. I’ve found a way to boost her immune system and support her body.
Applying one drop of the Protective Blend under the soles of her feet in the morning has worked amazingly. If she ever feels she might become sick, she takes the Protective Blend gelcaps, up to three times a day. When it is a younger child, you could just apply a drop of Protective Blend several times a day to support the immune defense.
To have witnessed a change in her overall health using this oil blend has been amazing. One 15ml bottle lasts us for many months. Just imagine, you only use one drop each time and the bottle contains 250 drops.
As a parent, it makes me feel good to know that I’m supporting my child’s health with something natural and that she feels better all year round.
Give it a try!
If you live in the Sarasota or Bradenton, FL area, don’t hesitate to contact me and I’ll be glad to meet, share my experiences, and give you free samples. You can reach me at 941.504.1968 or use the contact form.
Stress Reduction and Essential Oils
Vanderbilt University Medical Center
The use of essential oils was approved at Vanderbilt University Medical Center after implementing a research model which analyzed the direct effects of diffusing essential oils in the hospital environment for the perceived outcome of stress reduction and increased energy levels. The staff was surveyed for 30 days pre and post implementation. Before the use of essential oils 41% of the staff felt work related stress very often, after the use of essential oils only 3% felt work related stress very often. The feelings of being overwhelmed changed from 25% very often before implementation to 2% after implementation. Feelings of being well equipped to handle stressors at work changed from 13% very often before implementation to 58% after implementation. Perceptions of staff optimal energy level increased from 33% to 77%. Following the implementation of the essential oil initiative, 84% of the staff strongly agreed and 10% agreed that diffusing essential oils contributed to a more positive work environment.
Oils that Vanderbilt University Medical Center diffuses intermittently:
Lemon
Wild Orange
Lime
Invigorating Blend
View below Fox News reporting about Vanderbilt University Medical Center :
Cape Coral Hospital in Southwest Florida followed Vanderbilt Medical University’s example of diffusing essential oils.
How to Reduce the Amount of Pesticides on our Fruits & Vegetables
A 2012 report from the American Academy of Pediatricians that’s quoted by EWG suggested that pesticide exposure is linked to “pediatric cancers, decreased cognitive function, and behavioral problems.”
Everybody is aware that eating organic is more healthy but not many families can afford to eat organic all the time.
Here is My Recipe for Washing Fruits & Vegetables
Make your own citrus produce wash – quick & easy and a great way to get more of the harmful toxins, pesticides, and bacteria off your produce.
Here is what I use:
- glass spray bottle (never put essential oils into plastic)
- glass bowl
- funnel
- 10 ounces of purified water
- juice of one lemon
- 1 cup of apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp baking soda
- 10 drops grapefruit essential oil
- 10 drops lemon essential oil
- 10 drops wild orange essential oil
Mix lemon juice, baking soda, and essential oils in a bowl, add cup of vinegar, mix well until baking soda is dissolved, add purified water, mix well, pour into glass bottle. Your produce wash is ready!
Spray your fruits and vegetables with produce wash, let sit for 30 seconds, then rinse well with water. Use produce brush if possible for certain fruits and vegetables.
Enjoy your fruits & veggies!
Essential Oils & Hydration
Essential Oils Can Help Support Proper Hydration
It’s summer and it’s hot in Florida but not only in Florida! We want to be outdoors, running, biking, going to the beach, kids going to their summer camps, and proper hydration becomes key to staying healthy and fit.
Dehydration can have serious effects, even be fatal. So staying properly hydrated is key. Who doesn’t know the feeling of having a hard time to drink an entire glass of water? One of my kids when he was in his teens simply couldn’t drink an entire glass of water, it made him feel ill. Essential oils can be a savior, making water taste simply delicious.
When adding essential oils to water, make sure you are using only 100% Certified Pure Therapeutic Grade Essential Oils (CPTG) that are labeled for internal use.
Some of our most favorite essential oils to add to water are Lemon, Wild Orange, Lime, Grapefruit, Lavender, and Peppermint. One of my friends who owns a Cafe and has a water dispenser for her guests, adds lemon, lavender, and peppermint essential oils to the water and it’s the most refreshing and delicious water you can imagine.
Essential oils are very potent so be careful when experimenting with the number of drops. Start just with one drop. It might be already sufficient for a 16 oz glass of water. You can also add CPTG essential oils to smoothies and frozen popsicles to add flavor, therapeutic value, and actually increase your antioxidant intake.
Enjoy your summer, stay hydrated, stay healthy!
Less Pesticides on Fruits and Vegetables
A 2012 report from the American Academy of Pediatricians that’s quoted by EWG suggested that pesticide exposure is linked to “pediatric cancers, decreased cognitive function, and behavioral problems.”
Everybody is aware that eating organic is more healthy but not many families can afford to eat organic all the time. The website takepart.com published a great article about a cheap way to avoid chemicals in our foods – click here to read.
Here is My Recipe for Washing Fruits & Vegetables
Make your own citrus produce wash – quick & easy and a great way to get more of the harmful toxins, pesticides, and bacteria off your produce.
Here is what I use:
– glass spray bottle (never put essential oils into plastic)
– glass bowl
– funnel
– 10 ounces of purified water
– juice of one lemon
– 1 cup of apple cider vinegar
– 1 tbsp baking soda
– 10 drops grapefruit essential oil
– 10 drops lemon essential oil
– 10 drops wild orange essential oil
Mix lemon juice, baking soda, and essential oils in a bowl, add cup of vinegar, mix well until baking soda is dissolved, add purified water, mix well, pour into glass bottle. Your produce wash is ready!
Spray your fruits and vegetables with produce wash, let sit for 30 seconds, then rinse well with water. Use produce brush if possible for certain fruits and vegetables.
Enjoy your fruits & veggies!
Antioxidants & Essential Oils
We all Know that Antioxidants Counteract Free Radicals.
But Did you Know that the Most Powerful Antioxidants are Essential Oils?
The Antioxidant Capacity of a Substance is measured in ORAC
(Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity).
Please see below a table of foods and their ORAC values:
| Ningxia Wolfberries | 30,300 |
| Blueberries | 2.400 |
| Kale | 1,770 |
| Noni Juice | 1,712 |
| Xango Juice | 1,644 |
| Strawberries | 1,540 |
| Spinach | 1,260 |
| Raspberries | 1,220 |
| Brussel Sprouts | 980 |
| Plums | 949 |
| Broccoli florets | 890 |
| Beets | 840 |
| Oranges | 750 |
| Red Grapes | 739 |
| Red Bell Peppers | 710 |
| Cherries | 670 |
Something I wasn’t aware of before I learned about Essential Oils is that they are some of the most powerful antioxidants (make sure that when ingesting an Essential Oil it is labeled for internal use – read all dietary supplement facts and warnings).
The Most Powerful Essential Oils (ORAC value):
| Clove | 1,078,700 |
| Myrrh | 379,300 |
| Citronella | 312,00 |
| Coriander | 298,000 |
| Fennel | 238,400 |
| Clary Sage | 221,000 |
| German Chamomile | 218,600 |
| Marjoram | 151,100 |
| Melissa | 139,905 |
| Ginger | 99,300 |
| Cumin | 82,400 |
| Black Pepper | 79,700 |
| Basil | 54,000 |
| Peppermint | 37,300 |
| Lime | 26,900 |
| Grapefruit | 22,600 |
| Thyme | 15,960 |
| Oregano | 15,300 |
| Cassia | 15,170 |
| Cinnamon Bark | 10,340 |
| Orange | 1,890 |
| Lemongrass | 1,780 |
| Lemon | 660 |
| Lavender | 360 |
Just to give an example, you would have to eat 2 pounds of carrots, 2 quarts of blueberries or drink 2 cups of red beet juice to get the same antioxidant intake as 1 drop Clove essential oil provides.
People often ingest essential oils by:
- adding one drop to a glass of water, juice, smoothie or other drink
- adding one drop to appetizers, main courses, desserts (see recipes)
- adding essential oils to an empty veggie caps to swallow
The antioxidant capacities of Essential Oils are being analyzed as a potential in food protection.
The Journal of Agricultural & Food Chemistry writes:
” Many EOs have antioxidant properties, and the use of EOs as natural antioxidants is a field of growing interest because some synthetic antioxidants such as BHA and BHT are now suspected to be potentially harmful to human health. Addition of EOs to edible products, either by direct mixing or in active packaging and edible coatings, may therefore represent a valid alternative to prevent autoxidation and prolong shelf life.”
Many people have Essential Oils in their kitchen cabinet just like dried spices to add when preparing foods & drinks. It is important to mention that essential oils have a low smoke point, so adding the oils to cold drinks and dishes or at the end of a cooking cycle is best practice to maintain their therapeutic value. For instance, when making a stir fry, many use Grapeseed or Avocado oil to stir fry because of its high smoke point. People prepare four ounces of the oil with two drops of any essential oil they like to add for flavor and therapeutic benefit, and then add one or two tablespoons of that oil mixture at the end of the cooking cycle and let simmer at low temperature for one minute. Another reason people like using the essential oils in preparing their dishes is that it is much cheaper than using fresh herbs! One drop of basil essential oil is enough for a pot of spaghetti sauce and costs only about $0.07. Many essential oils have unlimited shelf life if kept out of direct sun and heat (except for the citrus based oils that have a three year shelf life). So, using essential oils in the kitchen means for many: adding therapeutic value, adding antioxidants, elevating flavors, and saving money.
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100% Natural Fabric Softener & Cling Reducer
Create you own soft, beautifully scented, feel-good laundry
— without toxic chemicals!
What you’ll need:
pantyhose
Instructions:
- roll up yarn into balls about the size of tennis balls
- -make 4 to 6 balls
- cut off one leg of panty hose
- put in one ball at the bottom, tie a knot, add next yarn ball — repeat until you have three to four in one leg of pantyhose
- throw into your next wash of towels (hot water cycle)
- throw yarn balls in pantyhose into the dryer when drying the towels (hottest dryer setting)
- this will fuse the yarn balls together
- wait until yarn balls are completely dry and remove from pantyhose
- add 2-3 drops of favorite essential oil per yarn ball (scent will last for a few loads)
- throw yarnballs into the dryer with your next load
Enjoy soft, beautifully smelling laundry — knowing you are keeping yourself and your family a little safer and away from toxic chemicals!
