Bubbling Bath Salts

Homemade bath and body products are my absolute favorite!! They are so  much fun and also inexpensive to make. Depending on the season, holiday, or occasion you can mix and match colors and scents as needed. These products also make great gifts. They are so simple to make, just about anyone can do it. My 6 year old made the salts pictured for his teacher on her birthday. He had a blast making them and really felt like he was doing something special for her. As expected, she loved receiving a homemade gift from her student!

Soaking in the bath, in general, provides many health benefits. It promotes healthy circulation, perspiration, and relaxation. Taking baths also aids in the removal of dead skin cells that can block pores and lead to unsightly bumps and blemishes on your body. Through the process of dermal absorption, or absorbing nutrients through the skin, your body is able to absorb minerals more effectively than consuming the minerals orally.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup Epsom salt
• 1/2 cup Himalayan sea salt
• 1/4 cup baking soda
• 3 tablespoons Body Wash (I used Dr. Bronners Baby Wash)
• 1 teaspoon coconut oil
• Optional: Food Coloring (I used a few drops of gel food coloring)

Essential Oils:

• 20 drops essential oil of your choice (I used Lavender for this batch)

I only use therapeutic grade essential oils that are safe for consumption.

For more information on how to purchase these oils, please feel free to contact me.)

Instructions:

Combine body wash, coconut oil, essential oils, and food coloring (if using) in a large mixing bowl.

Add Epsom salt, Himalayan sea salt, and baking soda to mixture.

Mix until well combined.

Spread mixture out to dry on a large baking sheet.

Allow mixture to dry for about 24 hours.

Add mixture to container of your choice. We used a glass jar and attached a spoon for scooping out the bath salts.

Add desired amount to warm bath, and enjoy!

Mixture keeps for about 3 months. 

Nerdy Extras:
Epsom salt is not actually a salt, but a mineral compound of magnesium and sulfate. To see the health benefits I listed in a previous post, click here. Sulfates help to improve absorption rates of nutrients, while flushing out toxins. Sulfates are also know to ease pain associated with headaches and migraines.

Himalayan sea salt benefits include supporting healthy weight loss, easing muscle pain, detoxifying, and hormone balancing.

Baking soda, aka sodium bicarbonate, provides alkalinity and aids in removing toxins from the body. It also helps to make bathwater feel silky.

FDA Disclaimer: "These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent disease."

Pan Fried Tilapia w/ Lemon Cream Sauce

Food is definitely one of my favorite things to blog about. Lemon essential oil in a cream sauce over crunchy fish? Yes please! I discovered this incredibly delicious dinner recipe at mamalovesheroils.com. I don't typically fry my fish, as it's not the healthiest option, but this recipe is a winner. My picky children actually love how this fish is prepared, and don't hesitate to eat every bite. That alone makes this recipe a keeper! It also doesn't require a ton of ingredients and it is easy to prepare; a bonus for us busy families.

Ingredients:

• 4 tilapia fillets
• 1 egg
• 1 cup milk
• 1 cup panko bread crumbs
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 4 tablespoons flour
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 2 teaspoons lemon pepper seasoning
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
• salt & pepper, as needed

Essential Oils:

• 10 drops of Lemon Essential Oil

(You could also substitute lemon juice for the essential oils.

I only use therapeutic grade essential oils that are safe for consumption.

For more information on how to purchase these oils, please feel free to contact me.)

Instructions:

Heat olive oil in skillet on medium heat.

In a shallow dish, combine 2 tablespoons flour, lemon pepper, panko, and salt & pepper if needed.

Whisk the egg in a separate dish.

Dip the fish in the whisked eggs, then coat the fish with the panko mixture and add to frying pan.

Cook for 3 minutes, then flip at cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until golden brown.

Transfer to a paper towel lined plate to cool.

To make the cream sauce, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat.

Add 2 tablespoons flour and cook for one minute, or until filly combined.

Add the milk, onion powder, lemon essential oil, salt & pepper.

Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until sauce thickens, stirring constantly.

Serve fish with lemon cream sauce drizzled over top with a side of veggies. 

Nerdy Extras:
Lemon Essential Oil is a powerful antioxidant, and can help ward off free radicals. It has been known to aid in digestion, help support healthy respiratory function, and to promote a positive mood and cognitive ability.

FDA Disclaimer: "These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent disease."

Immune Enhancing Pumpkin Smoothie

Forget about the Pumpkin Spice Latte, and try this smoothie instead! It has all of the traditional flavors of Fall, only with an added immune enhancing element. And, let's be honest, who doesn't need a little extra immunity this time of year?!

Ingredients:

• 1 cup almond milk (or milk of choice)
• 1/2 cup pumpkin puree
• 1/2 cup vanilla yogurt
• 2 semi-frozen bananas
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie seasoning
• 1 cup ice

   

Essential Oils:
2-3 drops Protective Blend

Instructions:
Place all ingredients into blender and blend until smooth.

Nerdy Extras:
Almond Milk is cholesterol free which can help enable a healthy heart. It can also aid in maintaining and lowering blood pressure.1

Pumpkin is a source of beta-carotene. It can help reduce risk of getting heart disease & asthma.2

Bananas have a significant amount of potassium. Consuming potassium and lowering your sodium intake can help reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease and heart disease. They are also helpful when fighting off viruses because they are easily digested and can provide necessary nutrients without upsetting the stomach.3

Protective Blend Essential Oil helps to support healthy immune function & is full of antibacterial properties. It's a blend made up of orange, clove, cinnamon, eucalyptus, & rosemary essential oils.

References:
1 https://www.organicfacts.net/health-benefits/almond-milk.html
2 http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/279610.php; http://www.livingwithasthma.net/fall-favorite-asthma-pumpkins-carving/
3 http://www.livestrong.com/article/505406-top-ten-health-benefits-of-bananas/; http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/271157.php

FDA Disclaimer: "These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent disease."

Cinnamon Spiced Coffee

I have been super short on time lately. Don't get me wrong, I enjoy being busy; it makes me feel productive and the days seem to go by faster. But I have made some pretty big life changes lately, and I'm having to look for additional ways to maximize time during my morning routine.

I'm usually scrambling to get out of the door in the mornings trying to make it to class on time. My school takes punctuality seriously, and if I clock in one minute past 8am, I automatically get 4 hours deducted off of my time card. Ouch!

I like to exercise in the morning, make lunches for everyone, and spend some quality time with my kids before we part ways until the early evening.  I usually end up eating breakfast in the car or when I get to class, and I have been skipping coffee when I need it now more than ever.

So, I decided to make my coffee ahead of time to save myself some time. The recipe below is enough for 4 days worth of coffee for me, but I only have one cup a day. If you drink more coffee, simply adjust the measurements below to better suit your needs. I am only in class Monday through Thursday, so that's all I need it for. I hope you enjoy it as much as I enjoy those few extra minutes in the mornings!

Ingredients:

• 4 cups of brewed coffee
• 2 cups of coconut milk
• 1 cup of protein powder (I used vanilla, but chocolate would be good too)
• 1 dozen dates, pitted
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg

 

Essential Oils:

• 4 drops of Protective Blend

(You could also use peppermint, cinnamon, orange, or any other essential oil that is safe for consumption..

You could also just completely omit the essential oils, and still have a fabulous cup of coffee.

For more information on how to purchase these oils, please feel free to contact me.)

Instructions:

Brew the coffee according to the manufacturers recommendation.

Place the coffee in a blender and store in the refrigerator until it is room temperature.

Once cooled, add coconut milk, protein powder, dates, and spices.

Blend in your blender (I use my Blendtec) until the dates are fully liquefied.

Add essential oil (optional).

Store in a glass jar in the refrigeration until ready to use.

Nerdy Extras:

Protective Blend Essential Oil helps to support healthy immune function and is full of antibacterial properties. It is a blend made up of orange, clove, cinnamon, eucalyptus, and rosemary essential oils.

FDA Disclaimer: "These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent disease."

Remineralizing Toothpaste

After having some surprisingly bad news at the dentist, I was looking for a re-mineralizing toothpaste to help with tooth decay and dental regeneration. I wanted something that was fluoride-free, glycerin-free, preservative-free, and free of foaming agents and artificial coloring and flavoring. I found a brand of toothpaste called Earthpaste that fit the bill.

I noticed the toothpaste only had a few very basic and natural ingredients. So I got to thinking, this is unbelievably simple. Why can't I make this myself? So I gave it a try. The results have been amazing. I fiddled around with the recipe a bit, and ended up with one I'm sharing with you today after some trial and error. I just love the way it makes your mouth feel so clean. It is smooth and creamy, but not too thick. My teeth seem whiter and are not as sensitive to cold and heat. I have yet to go to a checkup at the dentist, but I will update you all when I have more to share on that.

This toothpaste is even kid-approved. My 6 year old doesn't want to use any other toothpaste now. I'm happy because, well I'm frugal - and I'm saving a ton of money on toothpaste. Like most DIY's, startup costs can be a little steep, but in the long run it ends up only costing a fraction of the amount.

Prevention is everything, and good oral hygiene, a healthy diet, and eating less sugar is obviously the best way to avoid a cavity. If you think you have a cavity, go to the dentist and get checked out. This recipe is not meant to replace proper dental care. I am simply using it as a more natural means to clean my teeth, and in hopes that the small problems I am currently having with my teeth can be resolved over the next few months before my next 6 month checkup.

Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup of Redmond (bentonite) Clay
• 1/4 cup of boiling distilled water
• 1 tablespoon of coconut oil
• 1/4 teaspoon of Real Salt
• 1/2 teaspoon of xylitol

Essential Oils:

• 15 drops of Protective Blend Essential Oil
• 10 drops of Peppermint Essential Oil

(I only use therapeutic grade essential oils that are safe for consumption.

For more information on how to purchase these oils, please feel free to contact me.)

Instructions:

• Using a glass container, bring water to a boil
• Add the salt and xylitol, stirring until the ingredients have been completely dissolved.
• Add the coconut oil, stirring until the mixture becomes a liquid.
• Add the bentonite clay, stirring until well combined.
• Let cool completely
• Add your essential oils last, and stir.
• You can prepare this in the glass container you plan on storing the toothpaste in. Or you can pour mixure into smaller glass jars, so that each person in your home as an individual jar of their own toothpaste.
• To use the toothpaste, simply dip your toothbrush in the jar and apply a small amount to bristles. Or if it sounds better, use a small wooden spoon to apply to your toothbrush instead.

WARNING: You are never supposed to use metal utensils with bentonite clay

because the metals can leach from the utensils and be pulled into the clay.

Nerdy Extras:

Bentonite Clay draws toxins, chemicals, impurities, and heavy metals from the gut, skin, and mouth, The clay absorbs the liquids that it comes into contact with, and expands to extract the toxins from the liquid. It is composed of many minerals including calcium, magnesium, silica, sodium, copper, iron, and potassium. When used in toothpaste, the clay binds to unhealthy substances in the mouth, such as around the teeth and on the tongue and gums, and helps remove them before you swallow them and become sick. For these reasons, along with its high antibacterial properties, it is the most beneficial ingredient in this re-mineralizing toothpaste.

Coconut Oil is effective in getting rid of viruses and bacteria in mouth.

Real Salt is unrefined and full of natural minerals.

Xylitol is a natural sweetener derived from the fibrous parts of plants. It does not break down like sugar and can help keep a neutral pH level in the mouth. It also prevents bacteria from sticking to the teeth. This is how it protects the teeth from tooth decay.

Protective Blend Essential Oil is full of antibacterial properties and is known for eliminating germs and helping reduce cavities. 

Peppermint Essential Oil has many properties including antibacterial, anti-carcinogenic, anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, and antiviral. It has been proved to be more effective at preventing dental plaque formation than your typical antiseptic.1

References
1. Rasooli I, Shayegh S, Taghizadeh M, Astaneh SD (2008 Sep.) "Phytotherpeutic prevention of dental biofilm formation," Phytother Res. 22(9):1162-7

FDA Disclaimer: "These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent disease."

Essential Oils & Your Brain

There is a filtering mechanism in our bodies that protect the circulating blood from interacting and damaging brain tissue and cerebrospinal fluid. This natural defense is called the blood-brain barrier. It protects bad things from entering our brain, but also makes it difficult to get things into the brain.

Did you know that approximately 98% of small molecule drugs can not pass the blood-brain barrier? However some of the chemical constituents found in oils like frankincense and sandalwood are known to pass through this blood-brain barrier, allowing them to impact the brain (neurotransmitters) therapeutically.

Other oils that cannot cross over into the blood-brain barrier can still affect the brain through our sense of smell! Ever wonder why we have intense emotional reactions triggered by smell? The smell of grandmas house, bringing feelings of joy. For me, just smelling coffee brewing can trigger an awakening response.

Our sense of smell and our emotions are processed in a part of our brain called the limbic system. The limbic system is responsible for processing emotions, memories, and smell. No other sensory system has the ability to interact with our brain like smell. The amygdala gland, found in our limbic system, has been shown to play a huge part in the storing and releasing of emotional trauma.

(I only use therapeutic grade essential oils that are safe for consumption.

For more information on how to purchase these oils, please feel free to contact me.)

FDA Disclaimer: "These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent disease."

More Than Just a Scent

Essential oils are so much more that just a scent to uplift your mood. They are made up of the regenerating, protective, and immune boosting properties of the plants they are extracted from. Essential oils are truly nature's medicine!

In order for an essential oil to be more than just a scent, it needs to be considered therapeutic grade. Those that are perfume (synthetic) grade quality don't have the same restorative benefits as the oils that are therapeutic grade. An inexpensive bottle of tea tree oil from the grocery store will not have the same effect as one of the quality essential oils I use. Therapeutic grade essential oils are made up of tiny molecules, which are lipid soluble. 

Okay, I'm going to nerd out on a little science lesson here, sorry...

Substances can be either water or lipid soluble.

Soluble simply means that it can dissolve.

Water soluble substances can be dissolved in water.

Lipid soluble substances are dissolved in fat.

Pretty simple.

Stay with me.

Water soluble substances are very large, and cannot pass through the plasma membranes of a cell.

Lipid soluble substances are tiny, and can pass through the plasma membrane of a cell.

Why does this matter you ask?

Well, inside the nucleus of a cell there is a receptor, which interacts with DNA.

Simply put, by reaching our DNA, pure therapeutic grade essential oils have the potential to interact

with every cell in our body within 20 minutes of being metabolized.

So, in other words, the oils are able to quickly affect our bodies on a cellular level. 

I'm sure all of you have heard of antioxidants. Antioxidants help to reduce damage due to oxygen caused by free radicals. They have been known to help reduce the risks of heart disease, cancer, and slow the aging process.

Free radicals are typically created by environmental factors. Yucky things like pollution, radiation, and cigarette smoke are all considered free radicals. When there are more free radicals than antioxidants in our bodies, cell death occurs, which leads to all kinds of health problems.

Good news is, essential oils are full of antioxidants! 

Other things known to have high antioxidant values are omega-3 fatty acids (fish oil), organic berries, nuts, and sweet potatoes (so try and incorporate those into your diet as well).

                       

It sounds outlandish to some, but essential oils have many, many healing properties. I myself did not believe they could be so varied and dynamic in their uses until I was able to test them for myself. These oils are known to be antibacterial, anti-fungal, anti-infectious, antimicrobial, anti-tumor, anti-parasitic, antiviral, and antiseptic. I didn't believe it, but after experiencing it firsthand I know it's true!

(I only use therapeutic grade essential oils that are safe for consumption.

For more information on how to purchase these oils, please feel free to contact me.)

FDA Disclaimer: "These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent disease."

How to Use Essential Oils

What good are essential oils if you don't know how to use them? It's super simple, actually, and not nearly as complicated as you might imagine.There are three different ways to experience the oils. Topically, aromatically, and internally. Each technique is unique in its own way, and there is no right or wrong way to apply them. Just go with whatever you feel most comfortable with.

Topically

Probably the most popular method for essential oil application is topically. When you apply an oil topically, it means that you are applying the oils to your skin. Essential oils are easily absorbed by the skin, and applying the oils topically provides immediate localized benefits to the area that you are applying/targeting. The oils are also absorbed into your bloodstream when used topically, so not only are the benefits localized, but beneficial to the entire body. The pores on your feet are very large and open, which make for a popular location to apply essential oils topically. Another bonus in regards to your feet, there are points on the bottom of your feet that correspond to every part of your body. You can also apply the oils to your head, ears, chest, over your heart, to the back of your neck, and/or on troubled areas.  

Aromatically
One of my favorite ways to experience oils is aromatically, or through smell. You can diffuse essential oils in the air with an electronic diffuser. Just make sure your diffuser does not omit a lot of heat, otherwise it will weaken the essential oil and reduce its potency. If you don't have a diffuser, you can always put a drop of oil in the cup of your hand and inhale, or simple inhale the scent straight from the bottle. When the oils are inhaled they go directly to brain, which has an immediate effect on our mood.

Internally
The use of essential oils internally, or ingesting them, is controversial. People either love it or hate it. To be clear, not all essential oils are to be used internally, so you do have to be careful and read the labels. I enjoy putting lemon essential oil in my water, and I use the oils in recipes quite frequently. I am also a huge fan of essential oil supplements. I know a lot of people who take the supplements daily, myself included. For me, oils in general have been life changing, but the supplements have really balanced me out. I can't say enough about them!

(I only use therapeutic grade essential oils that are safe for consumption.

For more information on how to purchase these oils, please feel free to contact me.)

FDA Disclaimer: "These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent disease."

Scalp Stimulating Deep Conditioner

Many men and women face the unfortunate problem of thinning hair. Hair loss has many causes including aging, stress, illness, genetics, pregnancy, and menopause. The majority of shampoos and hair products out there contain synthetic materials which can also contribute to thinning hair.


For those with thinning hair, or those who generally want healthier hair, below is a list of ingredients to avoid if possible:

• Propylene Glycol - May cause dry skin and skin irritation.
• Sodium Lauryl Sulfate or Laureth Sulfate - Cleansing/foaming agent that may corrode hair follicles.
• Oleyl betaine - May cause dry hair and scalp.
• Mineral oils - Clog pores and may inhibit healthy hair follicle health.

It may come as surprise to those of you who know me, but I have thinning hair. You wouldn't think so by looking at me, because thankfully I have fairly thick hair,  So far it is not very noticeable. But seriously, I lose ...SO... much hair!!! I'm pretty sure it is due to genetics in my case, but it bothers me, so I decided to try to fix my problem with an at home scalp stimulating deep conditioner. I was hesitant at first, because rubbing oil directly onto my scalp sounded like a greasy mess. I'm so glad I tried it though, because the results were amazing! My hair was not greasy at all. In fact, my hair actually had significantly more body at the root. I could see the difference after only one treatment. The shaft of my hair was so smooth and revitalized.

Below you will see a before and after picture of my hair. Both pictures were taken first thing in the morning with no product in my hair. I washed my hair at night and put my hair up in a bun, so both pictures show my hair completely natural and air dried. Don't judge me!. Pictured on the left is obviously my hair before the treatment, and pictured on the right is my hair after the treatment. My hair looked and felt so much better! Who knew homemade hair products could work so well?!

Ingredients:

• 6 ounces Coconut Oil
• 3 ounces Jojoba Oil

Essential Oils:

• 9 drops Clary Sage
• 6 drops White Fir
• 3 drops Rosemary
• 3 drops Cedarwood

(I only use therapeutic grade essential oils that are safe for consumption.

For more information on how to purchase these oils, please feel free to contact me.)

Instructions:

Combine all the ingredients and blend in a blender or a food processor until well combined.

Store away from the light in an airtight container.

I like to apply the conditioner once a week on dry hair, before getting into the shower. I start by massaging small amounts of the product into my scalp. Once I feel like my scalp is saturated I apply the product very gently to the shaft of my hair. I then put my hair into a high bun and let is sit for a minimum of thirty minutes. Once I'm ready, I get into the shower and shampoo and condition my hair like usual.

There you have it! An easy and effective homemade conditioning treatment for pennies on the dollar!

Nerdy Extras:

Coconut Oil is an excellent conditioner for the hair and helps in the re-growth of damaged hair. It is made up of saturated fats, vitamin E, vitamin K, and Iron. It also softens the hair and conditions the scalp.

Jojoba Oil loosens and removes hardened build up on the scalp. Many scalp related problems, including hair loss, are caused by a hardened build up of sebum on the scalp which clogs hair follicles and creates scaling. If the build up is not removed, it can eventually interfere with the hair follicles ability to function properly. This is why jojoba oil makes such a fantastic base for do it yourself hair treatments; it cleans the hair follicles and allows the hair to function normally. Additionally, jojoba oil won't make your hair greasy if you have oily hair, as it naturally regulates the amount of sweat your hair follicles are emitting. Many people assume because they have an oily scalp they don't need to condition it. This is not the case, and the reason why many people with oily hair have flaky scalps. Jojoba oil also is an excellent moisturizer for dry hair. It really is great for all hair types.

Clary Sage is a very interesting essential oil with many uses. In this case, it strengthens hair follicles, which significantly reduces the amount of hair loss.

White Fir Essential Oil is said to have natural cortisone-like effects that often stimulate hair regrowth.

Rosemary Essential Oil stimulates the hair follicle; which as a result enables the hair to grow longer and stronger. It has been known to help treat and prevent dandruff and flaky scalps.

Cedarwood Essential Oil reduces dryness and hair loss by promoting healthy hair.

FDA Disclaimer: "These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent disease."

Natural Brow & Lash Enhancement

Once upon a time I would over-pluck my eyebrows. I have fairly thick eyebrows naturally, and of course always wanted them thinner. The grass is always greener, right? Anyway, I have been trying to grow my eyebrows back out for years. I had been penciling in little bald spots in my eyebrows to give them good shape. Then I stumbled upon a little beauty secret; castor oil. Castor oil not only helps regrow eyebrows, but it also helps lengthen your eyelashes as well. It is very inexpensive, all natural, and extremely effective. Some people are turned off by it because it tends to be a little thick and sticky. I don't mind, because it actually works!!! I've been using it for a few months now, and I no longer have to pencil in my eyebrows! I was in shock after I got my eyebrows waxed last time. There was no lecture on letting them grow out. They looked perfect! My lashes are even starting to get longer. Woo-hoo!

Ingredients:

• 1 1/4 teaspoon Castor Oil
• 1/4 teaspoon Vitamin E (or approximately 5 capsules)

Essential Oils:

• 4 drops Lavender Essential Oil
• 4 drops Rosemary Essential Oil

(You could also omit the essential oils, and still get excellent results with the Castor Oil.

I only use therapeutic grade essential oils that are safe for consumption.

For more information on how to purchase these oils, please feel free to contact me.)

Instructions:

Acquire some clear empty mascara containers. You could always just up-cycle your old mascara tubes and wash them out really well. Another option is you could use an empty jar and a disposable mascara wand. If you choose to go that route, make sure you store the wand somewhere sanitary. In my opinion, it was just so much easier and much more sanitary to buy the containers.

Add the castor oil and vitamin E oil to the empty mascara container and stir gently. Depending on the size of the container you are using, the measurements I listed are to be used loosely. The container should not be more than half full, otherwise it will overflow.

Put in the essential oils, if you have them, and stir gently.

Remember, consistency is the key! Apply once daily for optimum results. I apply the serum at the end of my night-time beauty routine on clean dry lashes. I brush the serum on like I would mascara, and apply to the top and bottom lashes. Then I use the same wand and brush my eyebrows with it. Making sure to remove any excess product, as the eyebrows need less product than eyelashes.

And you're done! You now have your own homemade eyelash and eyebrow growth serum!

Nerdy Extras:

Castor Oil is a natural source of vitamins (including vitamin E), minerals, proteins, and fatty acids that help lengthen and thicken hair. It also helps, soften, moisturize, and seal hair. It is high in ricinoleic acid, which has natural anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties. This helps keep fungus or bacteria from inhibiting hair growth. It is also able to penetrate the pores and follicles that produce hair.

Vitamin E provides additional fatty acids and antioxidants to help speed hair growth. It also acts as a natural preservative by extending the shelf life of homemade products.

Lavender Essential Oil is helpful in minimizing hair breakage and promoting hair growth.

Rosemary Essential Oil supports healthy hair growth and strength by stimulating the hair follicles. 

FDA Disclaimer: "These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent disease."

Instant Sunburn Relief

I know summer is winding down, but the warm season is still upon us. The temperatures have been at an all time high in so many areas this summer. Here in Scottsdale, the UV index is very high, & sunburns can occur quickly if you are not careful. 

Here is a super simple tip most of us already know: Aloe Vera is a great treatment for sunburn!

Try these simple frozen Aloe Vera cubes to help relieve those painful sunburns. The cold cubes help pull heat from the damaged skin, while the aloe soothes your sensitive sunburn.

Ingredients:

• Aloe Vera Gel

Essential Oils:

• Lavender 

Using the Lavender essential oil is completely optional. I omitted it in this recipe to save time. 
I only use therapeutic grade essential oils that are safe for consumption.

For more information on how to purchase these oils, please feel free to contact me.)

Instructions:
Using Aloe Vera in gel form, gently squeeze from bottle into ice cube trays.

A little bit of Aloe goes a long way, so use smaller silicone trays, if possible.

If you don't have any, just fill a traditional ice cube tray up about 1/4 of the way.

Place trays in freezer and leave in for a few hours, preferably overnight.

That's it, super simple!

Once frozen, you can store them in a plastic freezer bag and keep them frozen until needed.

When removing the cubes from the freezer, try and move fast. The Aloe melts pretty quickly.

You'll now have some soothing Aloe Vera gel ice cubes in the freezer waiting for you the next time you need instant relief from a sunburn.

If you want to add lavender essential oil to the gel you can add two drops of lavender to about a cup of Aloe Vera gel (in a glass or metal bowl), mix ingredients together, then spoon into the tray.

Nerdy Extras:

Aloe Vera Gel is an herbal remedy that naturally uses the plants moisturizing properties to soften the skin.

Using Lavender Essential Oil for sunburn can help ease the pain and assist your skin in the healing process.

A sunburn can be a nuisance, but in most cases it can be easily soothed with cold compress and aloe. However, even the most minor of sunburns can cause serious long-term damage to your skin. Your chances for Melanoma (the most serious form of skin cancer) increase by 80%  if you sustain five or more sunburns in the same area, especially during youth. The best way to avoid sunburn is to wear sunblock and reapply as often as the manufacturer recommends, if not sooner. You can also protect your body from the sun with hats and protective clothing.

If not careful, sunburns can be severe. If your skin is blistered, accompanied by a fever, or does not seem to improve within a few days, you may need to seek medical attention. Your doctor may want to you start treating the sunburn with a corticosteroid cream, or possibly prednisone. 

FDA Disclaimer: "These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent disease."

What Are Essential Oils

I know most of what I have been posting involves the use of essential oils. Some of you may have a good idea of what they are, but for those of you who are completely new to essential oils, I am going to break out the the basics for you with a brief introduction. When I first got into oils I wondered how they got them into such a concentrated form to be so effective. 

So, what are essential oils?
Essential oils are the liquids that are extracted from different parts of  plants. These parts can include seeds, bark, leaves, stems, roots, flowers, fruit, and more.

Oils protect the plant from environmental threats, and since our bodies are made from similar building blocks as plants, our bodies are able to benefit from them in the same way a plant would!

How are essential oils extracted from the plant parts?
There are two ways essential oils can be extracted; through steam distillation and expression.

The most common way of extraction is steam distillation method. I'll try to keep it simple, and explain in layman terms. Essential oils evaporate easily when exposed to air. They also do not mix with water, as they are not water soluble. During steam distillation the oils are exposed to a low heat steam in an airtight chamber. The steam flows into a second chamber, where it cools further, and separates into water and essential oils. As mentioned, oils are not water soluble, so it is easily separated during the distillation process.

The expression method is mainly used for extracting oils from citrus fruits. The oil sacs of these citrus fruits are found in the peel or rind. These parts are separated and then cold pressed with very low heat and pressure to extract the oils. 

There are lots of essential oil companies out there. Why the variance in cost? What is so important about having pure, therapeutic grade essential oils?

The therapeutic value of an oil is greatly affected by its chemical constituents. Constituents are affected by many different variables: part of plant from which oil was produced, soil, fertilizer, geographic region, climate, altitude, time of harvest, season, and method. Also, the process of obtaining higher grade oils is not very cost effective. Essential oils are 50-70 times more powerful than their herbal counterparts. For example, one drop of peppermint essential oil has the same benefit as 28 cups of peppermint tea. It can require several hundred, even several thousand, pounds of plant material to produce one pound of pure essential oil. The distillation process plays a huge factor in determining the therapeutic qualities in an oil. When oils are distilled under high temperature and high pressure, they lose some of their effectiveness. So even though they might all smell equally good, some will lack most (if not all) of the therapeutic qualities needed for personal holistic health care. All of these factors make for a very complicated, labor intensive, scientific process which is why you see the variance in price. In short, you get what you pay for!

For more information on how to purchase these oils, please feel free to contact me.

FDA Disclaimer: "These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent disease."

The History of Essential Oils

I'm obviously a big fan of essential oils. I'm also a big fan of history. Things just seem to make so much more sense to me when I learn about them from the ground up. Or maybe that's just the OCD in me? If I'm going to take the time to learn about something, I like to learn everything about it. Hence, all of my obsessions. So, if you are anything like me keep reading to learn some fascinating tidbits about the history of essential oils...

The use of essential oils has been recorded since the earliest of civilizations. The Egyptians  have been credited as the first civilization to use essential oils. The Egyptians valued their oils for both aromatic and medicinal purposes. Some of the oils that they used that we still use today include Frankincense, Myrrh, Cedarwood, Coriander, Juniper, and more. The Ebers Papyrus, one of the oldest and best preserved documents that we know of, clearly states Frankincense as being used to treat different ailments. King Tutankhamen was buried with 35 alabaster jars that were used to hold precious oils. Although the jars remained in the tomb, the oils had been stolen by tomb robbers. So clearly, the oils were far greater in importance during ancient times than we can imagine today.

The Greeks idolized the Egyptians for their use in aromatherapy. Greek culture believed all fragrant plants to be of divine origin. Greek physicians concluded that the oils had either stimulating or sedative properties. They also believed the oils had strong antiseptic properties. Hippocrates was said to have fumigated the entire city of Athens with oils to help lessen the impact of the plague epidemic. Hippocrates also believed that taking daily aromatherapy baths and receiving daily aromatic massages was the key to good health. I would have to agree, sign me up!

The Chinese are believed to have been proponents of the use of essential oils as well. Some historians say that the Chinese started using the plants for healing around the same time as the Egyptians. Aromatherapists in China believed that using a plants fragrance set the plant's soul free. The wealthy used the oils extravagantly; scenting their homes, clothing, cosmetics, paper, ink, and places of worship.

Ancient Roman culture also used aromatics enthusiastically. They used the oils in nearly every imaginable way. They scented their baths, bodies, hair, clothes, beds, the walls of their homes, and their military flags. Roman soldiers even carried pouches of aromatic seeds when out on duty.

The ancient people of Israel have many clearly documented texts citing the importance of essential oils. The Old Testament of the Bible and the Torah reference the use of oils for aromatics, ointments, incenses, and anointing. The New Testament references the Wise Men giving the gift of Frankincense and Myrrh to the newborn Christ.

Between 1000BC and 400BC Arabia was at the center of profitable trade routes. Frankincense was said to have been the largest trade commodity of the time, and brought incredible wealth to Arabia. The trade route was also referred to as the Frankincense Trail. The trails were so well traveled that satellites are still able to pick them up. The Arabians were the first to use the steam distillation process of extracting essential oils that we currently use today.

After the Arabians discovered the steam distillation process, the Europeans began distilling their own essential oils and creating their own perfumes. Just as the Romans, Europeans also fumigated towns with aromatics when the Great Plague became widespread. In London homes and workplaces were fumigated daily, most commonly with frankincense. By the 1500s, essential oil usage for medicinal benefits was commonplace.

Slowly, over time, essential oils lost their momentum. It wasn't until the mid 19th century that essential oils regained popularity. During that time oils were used for fragrance in food, cosmetics, and soaps; as opposed to medicinal purposes. Today, with rising health care costs, increasingly resistant strains of bacteria, and the constant news streams regarding the negative health impacts of our food and products the public is questioning how we are living.  It's no wonder why studies are showing that people are turning to alternative medicine and a holistic approach to health.

During the past decade in particular, we have seen a huge shift in our society to a more mainstream interest in Complementary Alternative Medicine. We cannot expect our health care plans to provide us with optimal levels of wellness. Of course there are some very obvious reasons we still need a health care plan, I am not discounting that in any way. What I am saying is that we are the ones who need to take control of our own health. We need to be personally responsible for all areas of our health, not only physically; but emotionally, mentally, and spiritually as well. We need to take control over the things that impact our daily lives; things that undoubtedly determine optimal wellness, and a better quality of life.

As documented throughout history, you do not need to be a doctor or health care professional to take control of your own health. Because of the simplicity of essential oils, many people have already began to make life-changing choices in their daily routines to live a more natural, safe, and healthy life. My hope is that all of you reading this will join me in taking an interest in high quality essential oils. They are 100% pure aromatic extracts, contain no artificial ingredients, and are tested to be free of contaminants such as pesticides or other chemical residues. Like anything you should be sure to do some research, and exercise caution when using them. When in doubt please consult with a doctor.

(I only use therapeutic grade essential oils that are safe for consumption.

For more information on how to purchase these oils, please feel free to contact me.)

FDA Disclaimer: "These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent disease."

Homemade Puppy Shampoo

Happy National Dog Day! I recently got a Boston Terrier puppy. Her name is Lucy. She is so sweet and makes my life so much more joyful (potty training aside, haha). It's crazy how one tiny little puppy can literally transform the mood in my home for the better. After making the move out to the gorgeous Sonoran Desert, things got a little complicated. Everyone in my home was homesick in just about every way. Then little Ms. Lucy came along and turned things around. She has been a total Godsend. I had been wanting to test out my essential oils and homemade products on pets, so I thought making a DIY puppy shampoo would be the perfect way to jump start my new interest.

The shampoo worked so much better than I expected!

Her coat was so soft and shiny and she smelled great! 

Ingredients:

• 1 cup water
• 1/3 cup oatmeal
• 1 tablespoon Dr. Bronner's Liquid Castile Soap
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 teaspoon of vitamin E (or approximately 5 capsules)

Essential Oils:

• 3 drops Peppermint
• 2 drops Lavender
• 2 drops Cleansing Blend
• 1 drop Cedarwood

(You could potentially omit the essential oils.
Although, in my opinion, it is what makes this recipe so amazing.

I only use therapeutic grade essential oils that are safe for consumption.

For more information on how to purchase these oils, please feel free to contact me.)

Instructions:

Add the oatmeal to a blender and mix until it becomes a powder consistency.

Heat the water up until it is very warm. Add the hot water to the oat powder inside the blender. Mix until well combined. Let it sit for a few minutes, until it thickens.

Add castile soap, apple cider vinegar, and vitamin E to the blender. Mix until combined.

Put the essential oils in the mix, again, blending until combined.

Pour finished shampoo into a glass jar to store.

Apply a quarter sized drop over dog and massage into coat, leaving on your pup for as long as they will tolerate it, or about five minutes. Be sure to rinse well.

Nerdy Extras:

Oatmeal is great for your dogs coat. It has many vitamins and minerals that helps their skin heal faster. It can help soothe skin irritations and itchiness, making it an excellent choice for dogs battling hot spots, eczema, and psoriasis. Living in the desert, the humidity is generally pretty low, so dogs around here can get pretty dry and flaky. Oatmeal helps battle that by moisturizing, cleansing, and softening your dogs coat.

Castile Soap has so many uses, but as a dog shampoo it helps to remove dirt, oil, and even pests. It is very gentle on sensitive skin and great for dogs who have itching issues.

Apple Cider Vinegar helps to clean your dogs coat/skin. Bonus - It is also a natural flea repellent!

Vitamin E can help support the skin of your dog by reducing flakiness. It also promotes a healthy, glossy looking coat.

Peppermint Essential Oil is excellent at repelling insects and supporting healthy circulation.

Lavender Essential Oil is a very safe and gentle oil to use on your dog. Our veterinarian even diffuses it in her office for the dogs in there.

Cleansing Blend Essential Oil Blend is great at neutralizing odors and soothing skin irritations.

Cedarwood Essential Oil is a natural antiseptic and flea repellent. It helps with circulation and is a powerful coat conditioner. 

FDA Disclaimer: "These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent disease."