Diabetes

I have type 2 diabetes. I know I have to loose weight, but is there someting more I can do, using essential oils?
Larry, AZ

Natural Help for Diabetes
Diabetes is a disease in which the body does not produce or properly use insulin. Insulin is a hormone, made in the pancreas, that is needed to convert sugar, starches, and other food into energy needed for daily life. Insulin allows glucose to enter the cells of the body to provide energy. There are different classifications of Diabetes.


Type 1 diabetes is when the body fails to produce insulin. The majority of type 1 diabetes is of the immune-mediated variety, where beta cell loss is a T-cell mediated autoimmune attack.


Causes:The cause of type 1 diabetes is unknown, but it is believed that genetic and environmental factors (possibly viruses) may be involved. The body's immune system attacks and destroys the insulin producing cells in the pancreas.

When glucose cannot enter the cells, it builds up in the blood and the body's cells literally starve to death. People with type 1 diabetes must take daily insulin injections and regularly monitor their blood sugar levels.

Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar or insulin reaction) or Hyperglycemia (high blood sugar) or Ketoacidosis (diabetic coma or loss of consciousness) are the key complications of type 1 diabetes.

Symptoms:
Type 1 diabetes often appears suddenly. Each individual may experience symptoms differently.

• High levels of sugar in the blood and/or urine when tested
• Unusual thirst
• Frequent urination
• Extreme hunger but loss of weight
• Blurred vision
• Nausea and vomiting
• Extreme weakness and fatigue
• Irritability and mood changes
• In children, symptoms may be similar to those of having the flu.

Type 2 diabetes is when the body fails to properly use insulin or has an insulin resistance. This is combined with a relative insulin deficiency, and characterized by elevated levels of insulin in the blood.
Causes:Overweight / Central Obesity (fat concentrated around the waist in relation to abdominal organs) According to the National Institutes of Health, an estimated 80% of people with type 2 diabetes are overweight or obese (i.e., a BMI of 25 or higher). Here’s why excess fat increases insulin resistance:

1. Fat cells have fewer insulin receptors (the place where insulin binds to open the cell to glucose) than muscle cells.
2. Fat cells release free fatty acids, and free fatty acids interfere with glucose metabolism.
3. Excess glucose that can’t be used by the cells for energy is stored as body fat, increasing the cellular mass that the pancreas is trying to “feed” via insulin. In overweight people, insulin production is increased to meet.

• Heredity-Having a parent or sibling with type 2 diabetes.
• Ethnicity Being of African American, American Indian/Alaskan Native, Asian American, Pacific Islander or Latino American descent
• A history of gestational diabetes, or having at least one baby weighing more than 9 pounds at birth
• Hypertension. (High blood pressure of 140/90 mm Hg or higher.)
• Poor cholesterol profile. (HDL cholesterol ("good" cholesterol) levels of 35 or lower and/or triglyceride levels of 250 or higher.)
• Inactivity. Living a sedentary lifestyle (i.e.,exercising less than three times a week)
• Having diagnosed prediabetes could eventually lead into type 2 diabetes.

Symptoms:Unlike type 1 diabetes, which frequently has a sudden onset of symptoms and reaches a crisis point before diagnosis is made, the signs of type 2 diabetes may be gradual and more insidious. Often, the first symptoms that people with undiagnosed type 2 diabetes experience are those from complications of the disease, such as blurry vision (retinopathy) or foot pain (neuropathy). Other symptoms can also be:

• Excessive thirst
• Frequent urination
• Extreme hunger
• Unexplained weight loss
• Fatigue, or a feeling of being "run down" and tired
• Rapid breathing
• Blurred vision
• Dry, itchy skin
• Headache
• Tingling or burning pain in the feet, legs, hands, or other parts of the body
• High blood pressure
• Mood swings
• Irritability, depression
• Frequent or recurring infections, such as urinary tract infections, yeast infections, and skin infections
• Slow healing of cuts and bruises

Gestational diabetes occurs during the second half of pregnancy and disappears after delivery. The women suffering from gestational diabetes have a higher chance of developing type 2 diabetes later on in life. Refer to Type 2 diabetes for symptoms to watch for.
Pre-diabetes is a condition that occurs when the blood glucose levels are higher than normal, but not high enough to classify into type 2.


Natural Help
A Lifestyle Change is a Must:

• Begin by “cleaning” your Internal System.
• Follow a juice and water fast/cleanse for 3 days. (Dr. Christopher has a good one, http://www.herballegacy.com/Three_Day_Cleanse.html) Be sure to monitor your blood sugar levels and adjust this cleanse to your body. Cut the Apple juice 1:1 with water if necessary.
• Also take a Liver Cleanse each morning http://theresanoilforthat.blogspot.com/search/label/Liver%20Cleanse
• After the cleanse, follow a diet that consists of Whole and Raw foods.

1. Any whole, live, raw foods. Fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, seeds, and a small amount of fresh fish or chemical free chicken.
2. Avoid all refined flours, cereals, processed foods and meats, animal fats
3. Avoid refined sugar. Use Honey, Stevia, and Agave Nectar. (Agave nectar has a relatively low glycemic index due to its higher proportion of fructose and lower levels of glucose.)
4. Celery, Cucumbers, String beans, Onions, and Garlic are highly beneficial in reducing blood sugar.
5. Cinnamon, which is got from the bark of a tree, has been found to increase the conversion of glucose into energy and also blocks out free radicals.

• Regular moderate exercise helps to control diabetes. 45 minutes to one hour walk everyday will help normalize body weight, and corrects insulin resistance.

Drink the “Herbal Vitamin and Mineral Formula” each day. Diabetics are chronically short of vitamins and minerals. This herbal tea will help give the body the needed nutrients.

1. The CHROMIUM that is found in Nettle, Oat Straw, and Red Clover is vital in the synthesis of glucose and the metabolism of cholesterol, fats and proteins. It maintains blood pressure and blood sugar levels. Not only does it help in the regulation and production of insulin, but also helps the insulin to perform more efficiently. It also decreases the triglycerides, enhances the HDL levels, and helps to loose weight.

Taking Dr. Christopher's Pancreas Formula can help:
This formula helps the pancreas and other affiliated glands, that through malfunction, cause high or low blood sugar (namely hypoglycemia and diabetes). This combination has assisted many that have had hypoglycemia or diabetes. Many have had a glucose tolerance test with a clean bill of health after using this formula. Many reports have come in about heavy insulin users who continue using the insulin but by watching litmus paper or other types of diabetic checking have gradually tapered down on the insulin; and many within a year, have found complete relief using two to three or more capsules, three times per day, six days a week. Of course, the closer a person stays on the mucusless diet and eliminates the unnatural sugars, soft drinks, candies, pastries, bread, etc., the quicker the results.
All encapsulated products are in a pure 100% vegetable based capsule.
Ingredients: Golden Seal, Uva Ursi, Cayenne, Cedar Berries, Licorice Root & Mullein.
Ailments traditionally used for: Alzheimer’s Disease, Blood Sugar (Diabetes), Blood Sugar (Hypoglycemic), Goiter, Hypoglycemia, Macular Degeneration
Directions: As a dietary supplement take 2 capsules 3 times a day or as directed by your health care professional.
Learn more about this at http://www.drchristophers.com/products/capsules/pancreas-formula-caps.html

Diabetes and Essential Oils

• Apply 2-3 drops Coriander, Dill, Fennel, equal parts, on the feet in the morning before launching into your days. At night apply these same oils on the pancreas area of your body with a warm compress. If it gets too hot, apply some Carrier oil to dilute the oils, and put the warm cloth back on.
• 2 drops each of Coriander, Dill, & Fennel in capsule, filled with carrier oil, take 1x a day. Research at Cairo University indicates that Coriander lowers glucose levels by normalizing insulin levels and supporting pancreatic function.(Can drop all EO’s on a spoon and swallow)
• Another oil that helps diabetic neuropathy is Cypress. Apply 3-4 drops to the feet and lower leg, massage in, apply more if needed. Apply 1x daily.
• Cinnamon Bark oil will assist in circulation, lowering glucose, strengthening the heart, and is an immune stimulant. Can make a tea by mixing 1-2 drops Cinnamon Bark oil, ½ cup warm water, and 1 tsp. Honey or Agave nectar.
• Apply 1-2 drops Geranium oil to the bottoms of the feet to help with the emotional side of Diabetes, as it will sooth anxiety and reduce stress. Geranium will also assist in lowering blood sugar levels and stimulating the immune system.

Endometriosis

I have endometriosis and it is very painful. Is there an oil that will help?
Michelle, Ut.


Natural help for EndometriosisEndometriosis is a condition where tissue, similar to the lining of the uterus (Endometrial cells, which should only be located inside the uterus) is found elsewhere in the body. Endometrial cells are the same cells that are shed each month during menstruation. The cells of endometriosis attach themselves to tissue outside the uterus and are called endometriosis implants.

Endometriosis implants or lesions can be found anywhere on the ovaries, the fallopian tubes, on the pelvic sidewall, or outer surface of the uterus or intestines. It is less commonly found in the vagina, cervix, and bladder. In rare cases, it is found outside the pelvis, on the liver, old surgery scars, and even on the lungs or brain. While endometriosis can cause problems, they are benign. (not cancerous)

Endometriosis can cause scar tissue and adhesions to develop, that can distort a woman’s internal anatomy. In advanced stages, internal organs may fuse together, causing a condition known as a "frozen pelvis."


Symptoms:

• Infertility has been associated with endometriosis.
• Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea—particularly just prior to or during the period.
• Frequent menses flow or short menstrual cycle.
• Heavy or long menstrual periods
• Mood swings and fatigue
• Gastrointestinal symptoms that mimic irritable bowel syndrome.
• Pelvic Pain, which may include the following:
• Painful, sometimes disabling menstrual cramps; pain may get worse over time(progressive pain), also lower back pains linked to the pelvis.
• Over all Pelvic pain, typically accompanied by lower back pain or abdominal pain.
• Dyspareunia (painful intercourse)
• Painful bowel movements
• Urinary urgency, frequency, and sometimes painful voiding

Causes:
The main cause is still unknown. The following are theories involved:

• Excess Estrogen Production
• Hereditary (The disease tends to be worse with the next generation)
• Immune system Problem (Which may affect the body's natural ability to recognize and destroy any misdirected growth of endometrial tissue)
• Hormonal dysfunction
• Environmental factors related to toxins
• Retrograde menstruation (Back up of menstrual flow into the Fallopian tubes and the pelvic and abdominal cavity during menstruation)
• Coelomic metaplasia (Where areas lining the pelvic organs possess primitive cells that are able to grow into other forms of tissue, such as endometrial cells.)
• Direct Transfer of tissue, during surgeries.
• Transfer of endometrial cells via the bloodstream or lymphatic system (The most likely explanation for the rare cases of endometriosis that develop in the brain and other organs distant from the pelvis.)

Natural Help:
For any Natural Help, give your body 1 month to heal for every year you have had a problem.

• Reduce Estrogen producing foods such as Soy products, Pasteurized dairy, and non-organic Meats.
• Use a Natural Progesterone cream under the direction of your health care provider. Dr. John R. Lee has some books that might help offer some advice.
• For Cramps, massage the heel and ankles (as with Reflexology) with 3-4 drops Basil or Geranium. Can also do a lower abdominal massage using 3-4 drops Basil mixed with 1 teaspoon Carrier oil. Message in a clockwise circular direction on the abdomen and a counter-clockwise direction on the corresponding area of the back.

Clary Sage can help with homone imbalance. 1-2 drops on inside of ankle, 1x daily.
Eucalyptus radiata can ease inflammation from endotrometriosis.
Lavender helps with cellular regeneration and scar tissue with fibroids.
Cypress helps with circulation.
Frankincense helps with any cancer causing cells...for safety precautions.

Use any of the following recipes to help and to relieve discomfort:
CAUTION: Always conduct a patch test and use Carrier Oil before Implanting Any Essential Oil.

Endometriosis recipe:

• 10 drops Frankincense
• 10 drops Lavender
• 5 drops Cypress
• 5 drops Tea Tree (for sensitive Uterus) or 5 drops Rosemary (for higher tolerance to pain)
• 1-3 drops Helichrysum
• 2 drops Geranium (for emotions)
• 1 oz. Carrier Oil
• Combine recipe above, in order listed.
• Implant vaginally. NOTE: Use tampon to hold in place overnight.
• You should experience results with in a week. Keep process going for 3 weeks.

Endometriosis recipe 2:

• 14 drops Tea Tree
• 15 drops Lavender
• 10 drops Cypress
• 5 drops Helichrysum
• 2 drops Frankincense
• Combine recipe above, in order listed.
• Take 15 drops of this mixture in an ounce of carrier oil, and implant vaginally.
• Maintain overnight with tampon.
• Do this every night for the first week and then twice a week thereafter.
• Do a maintenance once every month, typically a few days after your flow.

Endometriosis recipe 3:

• 2 drops Tea Tree
• 2 drops Rosemary
• 2 drops Lavender
• 1 ounce Carrier oil
• Create a douche with these ingredients and use 2x daily.

Endometriosis; Bladder Disease recipe:
Put the following oils in a mixture of 1oz. Carrier oil:

• 10 drops Rosemary
• 5 drops Lavender
• 4 drops Tea Tree
• 2 drops Peppermint
• Do a vaginal implant/douche. NOTE:use tampon to hold in place overnight.
• Do this for 3 nights in a row. Then every couple of nights for at least 3 weeks.

Acne

Natural Help for Acne

One of the most common misconceptions about acne is that it's caused by dirt. It's not! Acne is caused by a combination of factors you can't control, like your hormone balance and the natural pace of your skin's renewal system. When oil gets collected and hardens in the pores of the skin then blackheads are formed. Oily skin not only attracts dusts, but also continuously shed the dead cells. Dirt, oil, sweat and make up tend to plug and block the pores. The blocked pores become infected, resulting in pimples, and further causing acne prone skin.

Causes:

• Hormones
• Excess Sebum or skin oil
• Follicle fallout and clogging
• Bacteria
• Inflammation
• Constipation
• Too much fat, soda, and sugar in the diet
• Not enough water intake

The Do's and Don'ts to preventing Acne:

• Do eat better: Avoid eating food with heavy fats, oils, and sugars. Drink plenty of water (half your body weight in ounces) Eat raw, whole foods, including fruits, vegetables, and herbs.
• Don't over wash: Since dirt does not cause acne, excessive scrubbing and washing won't make them go away. Habitual over-washing may stimulate extra oil production and dry out or irritate the skin. Try to limit yourself to 1-2 washes a day.
• Don't use alcohol: Avoid products with high concentrations of isopropyl alcohol (rubbing alcohol) The alcohol strips the top layer of skin, causing the sebaceous glands to produce more oil.
• Do shower immediately after you exercise or have worked hard enough to produce a sweat: Until you shower, heat and moisture are trapped against the skin, causing a perfect breeding ground for bacteria.
• Don't use harsh Scrubs: It's okay to exfoliate, but don't use products with large grains, like Almond or Apricot shell fragments. These products can irritate or tear your skin, further aggravating acne. Use a gentle formula, with small, smooth grains.
• Don't pick or squeeze: Picking or squeezing your blemish, with your fingernail, pin, tweezers, etc., can force the bacteria deeper into the skin and damage the surrounding skin, causing scars.
• Don't touch your face: The bacteria that causes acne (Propionibacterium) is always on your skin. It does not cause acne until it gets trapped inside the hair follicle. Excessive touching of your face can drive the bacteria into the pores.
• Do start treatment before acne gets severe. It is always easier to take care of something before it gets out of control. If you wait, acne can spread and can cause physical and emotional problems down the road. Start good habits now.
  

Natural Helps:

•  A diet change and a cleanse is a must.
  ~Eat raw, whole foods.
  ~Drink plenty of water.
  ~Do a Liver Cleanse.
  ~A Colon Cleanse or Colonics can be very effective in detoxing the system to help clear acne.

• Wash your face every night with the following mixture:
  5 drops Tea Tree
  2 drops Rosemary
  2 cups warm water
  ½ tsp. Epsom Salts
  Pat with a dry, clean cotton towel

• Can also make a Steam tent:
  Pour 2 Cups Boiling Water over the following oils:
  3-6 drops Lavender
   3-6 drops Chamomile
  With a towel, make a tent, and allow the steam to come up onto your face for 5-8 minutes.
  Gently pat your face dry with a towel.

• Can also add 5 drops Lavender, 2 drops Tea tree, and 2 drops Palmarosa to 2oz. Water. Put mixture in a spray bottle and shake and spritz areas with acne throughout the day.

• Apply Tea Tree, with a Q-tip directly to a particularly harsh blemish.

• If Tea tree is not enough, apply Thyme...As a nighttime treatment, 1 drop Thyme to 10 drops Olive oil. Use internally, 2-3 drops in a capsule, filled with carrier oil, 2-3x daily, until acne condition balances.

•  After washing your face, each night, put a thin layer of VNH Herbal Healing Salve on. Each ingredient has a positive effect towards healing the skin and getting rid of blemishes.
  
  
  Go to http://theresanoilforthat.blogspot.com/search/label/Skin%20Care to read about the different Essential Oils that will help with Acne.
  
  

Sinus Infection

Natural Help for Sinus Infections

Sinus infection, or sinusitis, is an inflammation of the sinuses and nasal passages. Acute sinus infection is usually defined as being of less than 30 days duration and Chronic sinus infection as being greater than 3 months duration. Sinus infections usually follow a viral infection in the upper respiratory tract, but allergy-causing substances (allergens) or pollutants, nasal spray, or smoke may also trigger sinusitis. (Viral infections damages the cells of the sinus lining, leading to inflammation.) The inflamed sinus lining prevents drainage of mucous out of the sinuses. Stagnated mucous then provides a perfect environment for bacteria and in some circumstances fungus to grow in the sinus cavities. Bacteria and Fungus are the cause of infection in the sinus cavities, leading to Chronic Sinus infections.

Symptoms
(Can have some or all depending on the type of Sinus Infection you have)

• Nasal congestion with discharge


• Drainage down back of throat (postdrip)


• Headache in temple or around eyes


• Pain or pressure, which worsens when starined by cough, or lying back


• Fever


• Pain across cheekbone, under around eye, or upper cheek


• Pain or pressure on one side or both of cheek


• Severe headache in the forehead area


• Double vision or vision disturbances, in extreme cases


• Chronic toothache


• Chronic sore throat or bad breath

Natural help

• To help alleviate build up of Mucous, cut out mucous forming foods,


• Stop intake of Salt, Eggs, All Milk products, Meat, All Refined Sugar, Flours, and Flour products.


• Eat any whole, live Raw foods, fruits, Vegetables, Whole grains, Nuts, and Chemical free chicken/fish.

Use  Wild Oregano to help open clogged sinus passages, to thin mucous and stop excess mucous secretion. It will also minimize allergic reactions as it kills molds and other sinus agitators.

• Mix 1 drop Oregano oil and 2 ounces of carrier oil, apply externally along sinus areas of the face. (Avoid the eyes)


• Apply Oil mixture on tips of fingers. Beginning at top of nose, above the eyes, run fingers along sinus passages, behind jaw and down throat. (See image below)


• Next, apply Oil mixture to tips of fingers, beginning at bridge of nose, run fingers under eyes, on upper cheek, behind jaw line and down throat. Apply a gentle pressure each time.
  If you are congested at all, you will notice that you need to swallow or sniff, as mucus is being moved around and thinned in your sinus passage and is triggering a response to get rid of it. Don't sniff and pull it back into the sinuses.


• Perform the same motion a few more times, then blow your nose.


• Take great care not to get oil mixture in eye.


• Use the oil by inhaling the same mixture as often as needed to open up clogged sinuses.


• In extreme cases, take a capsule with 2 drops Oregano, filled with carrier oil, internally 2x daily.
  
  

Sinus Recipes:

In the following recipes, do not use Iodized Salt. The iodine causes excess irritation. The salt is necessary to not only disperse the oils, but it aids in thinning mucus and decrease swelling in the nasal passages, as well as removing debris, bacteria, and inflammatory substances from your nose. When the swollen tissues shrink, the openings of the sinuses (the ostia) get bigger, and all the infected pus and snot can drain better. Try to allow the nose to drain out, but if you blow your nose, blow from one nostril at a time to avoid ear infection.

Sinus Passages /Sinus Infection Recipe

• 1 Tbl. Sea Salt or Epsom Salt 

• 2 drops Eucalyptus


• 3 drops Tea Tree


• 2 drops Rosemary


• 1 drop Peppermint


• 1 drop Lemon


• Mix this recipe in 16 ounces of warm water. Put in bulb syringe and spray up nose. Let drain over sink. Optimal is to use a Neti Pot or breath (snuff) the mixture up the nose and bring through the throat, then spit out. (Yes, this can be very gross, but very effective. ) It may sting, but continue until mixture is gone. (If you get excess burning that lasts more than 5 minutes, after you have completed the flush, then re-flush with just warm water until the sting subsides and discontinue using essential oils as a nasal remedy.)

For Chronic Fungal Sinusitis- Do the same procedure as above, but with this recipe;

• 1 Tbl. Sea Salt or Epsom Salt


• 16 oz. warm water

• 8 drops Tea Tree


• 3 drops Eucalyptus


• 2 drops Rosemary


• 1 drop Peppermint

Another Option: For beginning stages and a more mild procedure:
~Apply 1-2 drops Eucalyptus + 1 Tbl. carrier oil on chest, sinus passages, and throat. This will “open” up the passages. Follow with 1-2 drops Rosemary + 1 Tbl. carrier oil on sinus passages.
Do this every night.
~Also, put 1 drop Immunity Blend on your tongue 3 times a day, followed with water. Can also put Essential oil in a capsule, filled with carrier oil and take 3x a day.


Sinus Headaches-Sinus Rinse Recipe

• 16 oz. Warm Water


• 1 Tbl. Sea Salt or Epsom


• 4 drops Eucalyptus


• 2 drops Peppermint


• 2 drops Tea Tree


• 1 drop Rosemary


• Spray this solution up nose, stand over sink, and let your sinuses drain. Use as needed.

Swelling of Face from Swollen Sinus –

To minimize, apply Lavender oil or Peppermint, diluted with a carrier oil, directly on face where it is swollen.

Healthy Hair & EO's

My son has a cradle-cap type dandruff on his head- any suggestions?
Sara, AZ.

Healthy Hair using Essential oils

The following essential oils are listed from less evasive to strongest.

1. Tea Tree can be very affective on dandruff. It is the least evasive and should be used for young children and babies.
2. Rosemary stops dandruff, and helps hair look shiny and healthy. It promotes hair growth. It is used effectively with alopecia, receding hair lines, and promoting hair regrowth.
3. Thyme is good for the scalp, helps treat dandruff and hair loss. Stops hair loss. The soothing and purifying properties make the scalp dandruff free by deep cleaning of hardened sebum, while keeping hair soft and shiny. The conditioning property of Thyme helps detangle the hair making it easier to brush and comb.
   

There are several ways to use the above oils. Here are some suggestions:

• Add 15-25 drops of oil of choice to a 12oz bottle of Organic, Chemical/Dye free shampoo.
• Use internally, 2-3 drops in a capsule filled with carrier oil, 2x daily.
• Use as a scalp treatment, by adding 10-12 drops to 1 ounce Olive oil, apply to scalp, wrap your head in a warm, damp towel, cover with a sheet of plastic wrapped around the towel, to maintain heat as long as possible. Keep on your head until it cools completely.
• NOTE: Be sure to keep these oils out of the eyes.
  

Shampoo Recipe, for hair loss/regrowth and dandruff:
Put 12 oz Organic, Chemical/Dye free shampoo, in a blender. Add the following;

• 20 drops Peppermint
• 25 drops Lavender
• 25 drops Rosemary
• 5 drops Thyme
• 10 drops Cedarwood
• Blend all together well, pour back into shampoo bottle. Wash scalp daily with “blended” shampoo.

Scalp Treatment for hair loss/regrowth:

• 3 drops Rosemary
• 2 drops Cedarwood
• 2 drops Sage
• 2 drops Thyme
• 1/4 cup Jojoba oil
• Massage into scalp and apply a hot moist towel around head. Wrap plasic around that, to hold in the heat as long as possible. Keep on head until it cools, up to 1-2 hours.
  

Oregano oil can be used, if the problem is extreme. 15-20 drops of Oregano can be added to Organic, Chemical/Dye free Shampoo. Shampoo the hair and scalp thoroughly. Let the shampoo sit on the scalp for 2-3 minutes before rinsing. When rinsing, cover eyes well, and rinse thoroughly. Take 2-3 drops Oregano and carrier oil, in capsules 2x daily.

Birch oil can be used in Personal care products to support hair growth. Add 2 drops per ounce.

Lemon oil restores the function of the epidermis, helps with thinning hair and nails by balancing the sebum / oil production.

For Hair loss from Chemotherapy
Create a warm compress, using 4 drops of Rosemary, 4 drops Lavender, and ½ ounce of Olive oil. Massage into scalp, place warm compress on head, and leave on until cold.

Laundry & EO's

Is there an oil that works as a stain remover? What about a laundry soap? Can I use it alone, or do I need to add it to detergent?
Kara, AZ.


Essential Oil Use in the Laundry

Stain Remover
~Use a 1-2 drops of Lemon oil on a stain. Let it sit a few minutes and rub off with a clean cloth or throw into laundry cycle.

~Place 1 drop Rosemary oil right on the stain onto the carpet and scrub with a stiff bristle brush or directly on clothing stain and toss in the wash.

Grease Stains: Eucalyptus Oil is the best for cutting grease. Place 1-2 drops onto clean cloth, then work grease out of clothing. The next best for grease would be Tea Tree oil , then Lavender, then Lemon then Orange. (Works great on those rings around the tub, greasy countertops, or grease on mirrors.)

In the Washer

Add 3-5 drops any of the following Essential Oils, mixed with warm water, to the Water Softener compartment:

• Nice Fragrance – Ylang-ylang or Lavender or Lemongrass
• Colds and Flu – Eucalyptus or Rosemary or Pine (Use on bed linens and night clothes)
• Insomnia – Marjoram or Chamomile or Lavender (Use on bed linens and night clothes)
  

Laundry Softener

• 8oz White vinegar (32oz to make up ahead of time)
• 8oz Baking soda (32oz to make up ahead of time)
• 16oz Distilled or purified water (64oz to make up ahead of time)
• 30-40 drops Eucalyptus or Lavender (100 drops or 10ml to make up ahead of time)
• Mix the baking soda into the vinegar over a sink or other contained area, in a large glass or plastic jar. The two materials, when mixed together, will cause a "fizzing" reaction. Add water and essential oil and stir again.
• Use 1/4 cup per load. Add in Rinse Cycle or soak and wring out cloth and add as a dryer sheet to clothes dryer.
  

Natural Laundry Soap

This recipe is not only easy to make, it’s also inexpensive as compared to name brand laundry soap and it’s good for the environment.

• 10 drops Grapefruit oil
• 10 drops Lavender oil
• 1 cup Baking soda
• 1 cup Borax
• 1 cup powdered castile soap
• Add the essential oils to the baking soda drop by drop, mixing thoroughly with a hand sifter. Combine this with the borax and soap, and mix again. Store in a tightly covered container. To use the soap, add one-half cup to each load of laundry. (Can Store for 1 year)
  

Deep Clean Your Kitchen Towels
Your dish towels don’t smell, the microbes on them smell. Add 1 drop of any of the following essential oils to a bowl of boiling water and leave them to soak before washing in the machine as normal: Eucalyptus, Thyme, Rosemary, Tea Tree, or Lavender

In the Dryer

Instead of using toxic and irritating softening sheets in the dryer, toss in a dampened washcloth with 3-4 drops of any of the following oils:
· Fresh – Lavender or Rosemary or Lemon or Lime
· Floral - Bergamot or Geranium
· Energy – Peppermint
· Disinfect – Eucalyptus or Rosemary or Tea Tree
*While the oils will not reduce static cling, they will impart a lovely fragrance to the clothes, while disinfecting.

*To really preserve the scent of EO's used in the dryer, add them and run on a 'no heat' cycle for a few minutes at the end of the drying cycle.

Ironing
Ironing is another way to infuse clothes with essential oils. Add 1 drop to a plant mister and spray as you iron or add 1 drop to a damp towel and place between iron and material being ironed.

• Romantic – Rose or Ylang-ylang or Jasmine – (Used for Undergarments)
• Relaxing - Chamomile or Lavender – (Used for Bed Clothes)
• Stimulating - Grapefruit or Basil – (Used for work/school/exercise clothes)
• Uplifting - Bergamot – (All clothes to help enjoy the chore)

*To disinfect/kill dust mites, Put 3 drops Eucalyptus and 6 drops Rosemary into 4 cups warm water....Shake and spray onto mattress / bed linen!! (great for hotels)

To continue keeping Clothes fresh
Add 1 drop Essential Oil to a cotton ball and place in your dresser drawers:

• Romantic - Rose – Undergarments
• Relaxing - Chamomile or Lavender – Bed Clothes
• Stimulating - Grapefruit or Basil – Work/School Clothes or Exercise clothes
• Antibacterial/Antifungal/Antiviral/Antiseptic - Lemon, Lavender, and Rosemary – Use for Socks/shoes
  

Protection Against Moths
~Add a few drops of Cedar or Eucalyptus essential oil to the final rinse water when washing sweaters or other clothing and allow them to soak for about 30 minutes.
~Can also add 1-2 drops on a cotton ball and place with clothing.

Essential Oils & Skin Care

Skin Care help using Essential Oils

Skin Care begins with the inside of the body. What we put in ourselves is a direct reflection of what we see on the outside.

Start by changing your diet:· Eat Raw foods, fruits, and vegetables
· No Processed Foods
· Fresh Organic juices and smoothies
· Drinking half your body weight in ounces, of water each day.
· Reducing stressors
· Filling your mind and heart up with healing energy, prayer, meditation, etc.

Essential Oil Help:The following list of Essential oils are great to use for skin care on a daily basis. Read the benefits for each oil, and decide what will work best for you. Then mix a 1-2 drops of the Essential oil with 2-3 drops carrier oil (Olive or Coconut oil) for a powerful healing and anti-aging of the skin.Basil• Effective skin tonic; aids sluggish complexion, dry skin, eczema, herpes, shingles, acne; aids hair growth; insect repellant.Birch• It has powerful astringent qualities and is excellent in skin tonics and body liniments.
• Birch is used as an astringent, and a counterirritant.
• Helps treat scalp conditions like dandruff and flaky skin. Purifying and cleansing to the scalp.
• Excellent to use as a compress with sage for acne or congested skin.Coriander• stretch marks, scars

Cypress
• Cypress is a vaso-constrictor, used to treat acne, increases circulation in mature skin, a good over-all skin tonic. It is astringent and helps to reduce overactive sweat glands and excessive perspiration. Helpful in mixtures for simple water retention, varicose veins, cellulite, wound healing. This is a good oil to be added to mixtures for oily hair, oily skin, or sweaty palms and feet. Stimulates skin circulationEucalyptus• Used in massage oils and ointments for chapped hands, lips and other skin irritations.
• Activates the oxygen exchange in the skin cells and promotes radiant skin.
• Mix equally with peppermint oil and white vinegar as a cooling spritz for a fever or for acne or boils.
• Mix with tea tree for external fungus infections like athletes foot.
• Used in the bath for antiseptic action
• Useful as an insect repellent along with basil and citronella.
• Use with tea tree and thyme for head lice or skin infections.
• Excellent aid for poor circulation during winter months. Add to carrier oil for massage.
• Add to bath water to soothe muscular aches and pains
• Add to carrier oil to use for skin careFennel• Good for dull and oily skin, bruises, cellulite, wrinkles, dry, watery, oily and mature skin types. Used in Europe and in body oils to tone and tighten sagging tissues, particularly sagging breast tissue. Will also help firm and tighten facial skin. Stimulates circulation. Excellent moisturizer. Aids corns.
• Use daily with Carrier Oil for moisturizer on the face or bodyFrankincense• Useful for acne, dry/mature aged skin, pimples, scars, smoothes out wrinkles, tonic to all skin, balances oily skin. Used in beauty treatments from before the time of Cleopatra. Used to treat and heal wounds, inflammations, scarring, and skin disorders of all types.
• Apply oil to back of neck at the hairline, or on pulse points. Applying 1 – 2 drops to the feet will get the oil circulating throughout the body quickly.
• Apply 1-2 undiluted drops to targeted areas of the body for relief.Geranium• As an external application, its analgesic, anti-inflammatory, anti-hemorrhagic, benefits can be experienced by applying directly or when mixed with carrier oil, lotion, hand cream etc. In this particular context it is healing and antiseptic as well as a cellular regenerative.
• This oil is used frequently in applications for aged, wrinkling or older skin, as well as for healing balms and salves after plastic or facial surgery. Particularly healing after facial plastic surgery.
• Useful for acne, burns, bruises, dermatitis, ulcers, eczema, psoriasis, and broken capillaries. It has value in body and facial preparations where it balances oil gland secretion so it can be used for both dry and oily skin, as well as balancing out congested and mature skin.
• Excellent in use for treating skin conditions associated with bruising, dermatitis, psoriasis, eczema, shingles and cellulite.
• Useful in adding to a blend for a mosquito repellant.Helichrysum• Traditional uses of helichrysum include nervine, anti-allergenic, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antiphlogistic, antispasmodic, antitussive, cicatrizant, febrifuge, antiseptic, anti-hematoma, anticoagulant, cholagogue, fungicidal, hepatic, diuretic, emollient, mucolytic, splenic, cytophylactic, expectorant.
• One of the best essential oils to use for traumas, bruises internal, external, burns; acne, allergies, dermatitis, eczema, regenerating, aids broken veins, stretch marks, inflammations, spots, warts, wounds, old scars, carpal tunnel.Lavender• Antiseptic, controls the production of sebum, stimulates circulation in the skin. Assists in the healing of wounds and helps to rejuvenate the skin. Used to treat acne, cuts, burns, sunburn, inflammation, psoriasis, wrinkles. Beneficial for oily skin, acne, and dermatitis; excellent antiseptic properties ward off skin parasites, such as scabies.
• Useful for areas of inflammation such as athlete’s foot, burns, insect bites, itching, rheumatism, scabies, chicken pox, cystitis.
• Lavender is a good general purpose oil, useful in balancing blends or rounding off. Used to treat insect bites and nettle stings. An effective insect repellent. Repels moths.
• Apply 1-2 undiluted drops on temples, back of neck, rim of ears, on the web of hands (between index and thumb) and on the feet;
• For fragrant and soothing massage oil; add 3- 5 drops to carrier oil.
• For relaxation, calming
• To ease dry skin; add 4-5 drops and agitate in your bath or shower.
• Place 1- 2 drops in the palm of your hands and inhale; place a drop or two on a piece of cloth and inhale any time of the day.
• Personalize your personal care items; for fast action, apply 3-5 drops on the affected area and apply a warm water compress covered by a dry towel for 10-60 minutes.Lemon• Lemon oil addresses: Congestion due to colds, infections, respiratory disorders, infected skin. Slackened muscle tissue, poor circulation, low blood pressure, nosebleeds, a sluggish lymphatic system, coughs, obesity, stomach acidity, confusion, a lack of purpose and direction.
• With topical and aromatic purposes. Do NOT apply undiluted or use on skin that will be exposed directly to sunlight within 72 hours.Lemongrass• Antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, vasodilator, sedative, tonic.
• It acts as a deodorant and a purifier for oily skin.
• Lemongrass has antiviral, antifungal and sedative properties.
• Supports the body in breaking down cellulite, effective with hydro lipid retention.
• It has tonifying astringent properties - cleansing to oily skin, blackheads, tightens pores and muscles.Marjoram• Clears bruises. Pain-relieving, antiseptic, helps wounds to heal, used for chilblains, cuts, bruisesMyrrh• In days of old, pregnant mothers anointed themselves with Myrrh for protection against infectious diseases and to elevate feelings of well-being. Of course, the most famous reference to Myrrh is the biblical story of the three wise men. Myrrh was one of the gifts of the Magi to the baby Jesus as told in the Gospel of Matthew. It was used in ancient times for skin conditions, oral hygiene, insect repellent, and for embalming. Galen, the physician to
the gladiators, sent Greek soldiers into battle with a First Aid kit containing Myrrh essential oil.
• In modern times, Myrrh is used to balance the thyroid and endocrine system, support the immune system, heal fungal and viral infections, and to enhance emotional well-being
• Antiseptic, astringent, reduces inflammation, improves circulation, stimulates the regeneration of skin cells, assists in the healing of wounds. Used to treat eczema, wrinkles. Very good for mature complexions or chapped and cracked skin, boils, athlete's foot, and ringworm. Promotes healing of gums.Myrtle• Its cleansing and antibacterial properties have made it an important ingredient in solutions that battle skin conditions like acne and psoriasis. Myrtle is often used to balance hormones.
• Since antiquity the leaves have been used for perfumes and food. Myrtle was a symbol of love because it was used in bridal bouquets or headdresses. The modern Jews still adorn the booths and sheds at the feast of tabernacles with myrtle. The flowers emit a perfume more exquisite than that of the rose.
• This oil has long been used in beauty preparations, as a facial tonic, or to strengthen skin, specifically oily, infected skin and acne. Myrtle oil has antiseptic and deodorizing properties, and serves as a natural deodorant,Orange• Use for overall skin health, for dull, oily, puffy skin, wrinkles, orange oil strengthens the epidermis, increases circulation, cell hydration, supports cell regeneration. Use to reduce obesity and water retention.
• Softens thick, fissured and cracked skin; promotes regeneration.
• Useful in combating cellulite when you massage it into the skin daily along with Cypress and Rosemary.
• Orange is said to help with the formation of collagen and is vital for the repair of body tissue. It softens and strengthens the outer layers of the skin and stimulates the nerve endings which activate circulation. It is excellent for stretch marks and helps repair broken bones. Helpful for gums, teeth and gingivitis.Peppermint• Versatile oil that relaxes and soothes; anti-inflammatory properties provide warming and cooling action; ease menstrual cramps, muscular aches and pains, sciatica, rheumatism, arthritis, toothache, laryngitis, sinusitis, rhinitis, mastitis, and cystitis; cools skin and relieves dermatitis, and itching associated with eczema, pruritis and urticaria.
• Cleansing and purifying; aids with halitosis, gingivitis, herpes, shingles; softens and degreases skin; acne, helps remove blackheads, and retains moisture in skin; antiseptic properties ward off skin parasites such as ringworm and scabies. Vasoconstrictive action tightens capillaries; aids hypotension; relieves liver fatigue from palpitations; effective heart tonic.Rosemary• Rosemary is said to restore vitality and youth. Excellent tonic for the skin, easing congestion and reducing puffiness and swelling, softens and degreases skin; acne, helps remove blackheads, and retains moisture in skin; antiseptic properties ward off skin parasites such as ringworm and scabies. It can be used as a hair stimulant, and it can help control dandruff.Sandalwood• Aids scars and is an anti-wrinkle
• Increases capillary circulation and connective tissue and dermis are strengthened and moisturized.
• Tissue regenerator
• Soothes skin
• Relieves the itching
• Moisturizes dry, dehydrated, and mature skin (Increases water retention of collagen)
• Smoothes and softens lines and wrinkles
• Relieves itching and irritation after shaving
• Sandalwood assists and balances any skin type or condition. Mix with Message, apply to face and neck area.Tea Tree• Tea Tree oil seems to reduce the proliferation of viruses and bacteria.
• Use undiluted on cold sores, on ring worm infections, on chicken pox to ease itch and stop infection, on insect bites to ease itch and pain. Use undiluted for itching of any kind.
· Use undiluted on corns to soften and control growth, on cuts and scrapes for an antiseptic. A few drops undiluted may be used for athletes foot and fungal infections. Use undiluted on warts.
• Diffusion of Tea Tree oil is very useful for infections such as colds and influenza, especially if it is used at the first signs of infection. Use 5 drops in a cup of water, with a sponge to reduce fevers. Lick trick for infections, aids with recuperation from long illness. Do the lick trick for whooping cough.
• 3-4 drops of Tea Tree in a capsule daily may help Candida. 5 drops in a douche for urinary antiseptic, cystitis, vaginitis, increases urine flow.
• Good for controlling acne. Add a few Tea Tree drops to warm water as final natural, antiseptic facial rinse.
• Reduce the effects of infectious micro-organisms. Add 5 to 10 drops to water for cleaning counter tops.