10 Recipes with Australian Sandalwood – Santalum spicatum

Ah beautiful sandalwood oil! Our lovely Australian sandalwood essential oil has a hint of the bush and some herbaceous tones too. The Aussie species is not as syrupy, heady or as sweet as Indian (Mysore) sandalwood, but adds depth and the wisdom of this great land to your world. It can can also be found as a CO2 extract, so dive in and experience Australia.

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Please check out my new book REVELATION! – Reveal Your Destiny with Essential Oils

Barnes & Noble      Booktopia AU      Amazon UK

and many other stores worldwide as an ebook and paperback

**************************************************************************************************************

 

 

 

 

1. Nourishing Body Oil Blend

For a coat of your body use 3 teaspoons of carrier oil in a little dish and, add 7 – 8 drops of essential oil. It’s always best to patch test first, before you apply all over.

***** Always put the drops of essential oil into the bottle or dish first, then add the carrier oil. It gives the scents time to create a synergistic fusion.

For a 50ml bottle of oil add 25 drops and see my articles “Ratios for Blending Essential Oils – A Reminder of the Basics” and “Aromatherapy – It’s Easy as 1 2 3”

“Courage”

Aust. Sandalwood    3 drops

Lavender                  2 drops

Geranium                  1 drop

Black pepper            1 drop


“A Potion for my Man”

Aust. Sandalwood     4 drops

Mandarin                   4 drops


“Relaxing AND Energising all at the Same Time”

Aust. Sandalwood      2 drops

Lemongrass               2 drops

Orange                       4 drops


Salt makes a great base for a scrub

Salt makes a great base for a scrub

 

2. Skin Scrub

Use 2 cups of fine sea salt, add some unperformed lotion, or some carrier oil, mix into a paste and then add your essential oils (only a few drops). You’re ready to scrub under the shower or in the bath, but remember to be gentle! If you use the scrub while standing in the bath you can then soak in the salt and oils too. When you shower scrub most of it gets wasted.

Aust. Sandalwood       2 drops

Lemon                         3 drops


Anyone can give themselves a face mask!

Anyone can give themselves a face mask!

 

3. Face Mask

Usually I add 1 or 2 drops of oil to 2 teaspoons of clay, and add water, floral water or hydrosol. Keep the mask on for 5 minutes then rinse off with cool water. Mist with a hydrosol or floral water and moisturise.

Aust. Sandalwood  1 drop

Rose 3%                2 drops * see my article for more info on 3% blends in jojoba


 

 

Australian sandalwood thrives in semi-arid conditions - pic via www.fpc.wa.gov.au

Australian sandalwood thrives in semi-arid conditions – pic via http://www.fpc.wa.gov.au

4. Personal Aura Cleansing Mist & Room Mist

In a 50ml mist bottle filled with water add 25 drops of oil

(depending on the packaging you have, you may need to use a little alcohol -like vodka- at the bottom of your bottle first, so the oils disperse into smaller drops to prevent clogging the atomiser top. I’ve found sometimes it works just with water, and sometimes it doesn’t – very annoying!)

“Bush Magic”

Aust. Sandalwood      8 drops

Palmarosa                  8 drops

Lavender                    5 drops

Basil                           3 drops


“Manifestation”

Aust. Sandalwood    8 drops

May Chang             10 drops

Cypress                    7 drops


The classic Duralex glass dish is handy to make oil blends and quick perfumes in

The classic Duralex glass dish is handy to make oil blends and quick perfumes in

5. Pure Pulse Point Perfume

In a little dish mix these oils and anoint your pulse points or chakras – 3 drops of essential oils and dilute with a few drops of carrier oil – always patch test first!

“I Will”

Aust. Sandalwood   1 drop

Peru Balsam            1 drop

Lime                        1 drop


“Lovely”

Aust. Sandalwood    1 drop

Neroli 3%                 4 drops  * see my article for more info on 3% blends in jojoba


“Double Torus”

Aust. Sandalwood      1 drop

Juniper                       1 drop

Rose Geranium           1 drop


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Like our Facebook page to stay tuned for more info on the inaugural

Australasian Artisan Botanical Perfume Expo in Sydney, 24th April 2016

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Happy blending and remember to use your intention when you are creating your formulas. See my article about intention.

Check out my YouTube channel too, thanks.

copryright SR Banks 2015

 

10 Recipes with Eucalyptus Essential Oil – Eucalyptus radiata

Eucalyptus is a must-have essential oil for the home. It helps with stuffy colds and the cleaning but how else could this wonderful oil be used?

 

**************************************************************************************************************

Please check out my new book REVELATION! – Reveal Your Destiny with Essential Oils

Barnes & Noble      Booktopia AU      Amazon UK

and many other stores worldwide as an ebook and paperback

**************************************************************************************************************

Eucalyptus in the Australian country

Eucalyptus in the Australian country

1. Steam Inhalation

Put 1 or 2 drops into the bottom of a bowl. Add boiling water and make a tent with a towel to stick your head in! Breathe through your nose for blocked sinuses and a headache, and through your mouth to help with a cough. Add another drop of oil if necessary.

Eucalyptus is the oil to help clear the nasal passage from congestion, so it’s the perfect oil to use when you have a cold.


Puzhen diffuser from the 5 senses series - puzhen.com

Puzhen diffuser from the 5 senses series – puzhen.com

2. Scent Your Space

In a traditional oil burner with a candle or a diffuser add 25 drops of oil

“Clear the Air”

Get a fresh approach –

Eucalyptus                   6 drops

Orange                      14 drops

Cedarwood Virginian    5 drops


“Relax”

Eucalyptus         5 drops

Lavender           8 drops

Marjoram           3 drops

Lemon               9 drops


“I Need Ideas!”

Eucalyptus      8 drops

Petitgrain       10 drops

Patchouli         4 drops

Basil                3 drops


“Space Cleanse”

Eucalyptus        7 drops

Mandarin         10 drops

Frankincense    8 drops


 

lovely legs!

lovely legs!

3. Nourishing Body Oil Blend

For a coat of your body use 3 teaspoons of carrier oil in a little dish and, add 7 – 8 drops of essential oil. It’s always best to patch test first, before you apply all over.

***** Always put the drops of essential oil into the bottle or dish first, then add the carrier oil. It gives the scents time to create a synergistic fusion.

For a 50ml bottle of oil add 25 drops and see my articles “Ratios for Blending Essential Oils – A Reminder of the Basics” and “Aromatherapy – It’s Easy as 1 2 3”

“Hello Day!”

A sweet start –

Eucalyptus       2 drops

Geranium         2 drops

Rosemary        2 drops

Orange            2 drops


“Oh My Aching Legs”

Eucalyptus       2 drops

Rosemary       3 drops

Lavender         3 drops


“A Spiritual Body”

Eucalyptus     2 drops

Frankincense  2 drops

Lemon           4 drops


The classic Duralex glass dish is handy to make oil blends and quick perfumes in

The classic Duralex glass dish is handy to make oil blends and quick perfumes in

4. Pure Pulse Point Perfume

In a little dish mix these oils and anoint your pulse points or chakras – 3 drops of essential oils and dilute with a few drops of carrier oil – always patch test first!

“I’ve Got the Power”

Eucalyptus                   1 drop

Jasmine 3% jojoba       8 drops   * see my article for more info on 3% blends in jojoba


“1, 2, 3”

Eucalyptus            1 drop

Peru Balsam         1 drop

Indian Rosewood  1 drop *see my article about this oil here


 

Koalas MUST have eucalyptus and so must I!

Koalas MUST have eucalyptus and so must I!

Happy blending and remember to use your intention when you are creating your formulas. See my article about intention.

Check out my YouTube channel too, thanks.

copryright SR Banks 2015

10 Recipes with Lime Essential Oil – Citrus aurantifolia

Beautiful lime oil is an interesting citrus oil with depth and even a little spice. What is lime’s secret?

 

***************************************************************************************************************

Please check out my new book REVELATION! – Reveal Your Destiny with Essential Oils

Barnes & Noble      Booktopia AU      Amazon UK

and many other stores worldwide as an ebook and paperback

***************************************************************************************************************

 

Lime oil has more depth than the other citrus oils

Lime oil has more depth than the other citrus oils

 

“Lime (Citrus aurantifolia)

 

counteracts negative thinking

 

Lime is better used in diffuser and mists rather than on the body. Lime is one of the heavier citrus oils and I feel it hides a deep, magical secret, but I’m not quite sure what that secret is. It has less classical uses than lemon but when I use this oil on my clients I can see its ability to influence and counter-act negative thinking. Don’t give away your energy to negative thoughts, feelings or situations otherwise you wont have anything left for your own happiness. Use lime instead.”

 

Suzanne R Banks “Revelation! Reveal Your Destiny with Essential Oils”

Beer and lime!

Beer and lime!

So while beer with a wedge of lime is lovely, what can lime oil be used for?

* According to Salvatore Battaglia (who has written a great text-book on essential oils “The Complete guide to Aromatherapy), lime is great for sore throats due to its anti-microbial nature. However, all oils have anti bacterial qualities as they are the protectors of each plant they come from.

* Lime is used to help with depression – as with all the citrus oils. They are oils of happiness.

* It could be used in a body oil blend as a digestive tonic

* In a mild dilution it can help oily skin and hair as it acts as an astringent.

Refreshing zesty lime

Refreshing zesty lime

Let’s check out some recipes:

1. Scent Your Space

In a traditional oil burner with a candle or a diffuser add 25 drops of oil

“Cocktails!”

Get in the spirit! Get it?

Lime           12 drops

Orange        8 drops

Cinnamon    5 drops


“Life is Good”

When you need a bit of help to see the good things –

Lime          10 drops

Lavender   10 drops

Fennel         5 drops


“Summer Summer Summer”

Lime                8 drops

Palmarosa       8 drops

Lemon Myrtle   5 drops

Nutmeg           4 drops


“Fun with Kids”

Lime           7 drops

Mandarin    6 drops

Spearmint   6 drops

Marjoram    6 drops


“From Negative to Positive”

Start feeling good now –

Lime                         6 drops

Indian Rosewood    10 drops

Lemongrass              6 drops

Clove                        8 drops


 

Anoint yourself with pure essential oil blends

Anoint yourself with pure essential oil blends

2. Pure Pulse Point Perfume

In a little dish mix these oils and anoint your pulse points or chakras – 3 drops of essential oils and dilute with a few drops of carrier oil – always patch test first!

“Feelin Good”

Lime                               2 drops

Australian Sandalwood   1 drop


“I Feel Pretty, Oh SO Pretty”

Lime          1 drop

Neroli 3%   3 drops  * see my article for more info on 3% blends in jojoba


“Don’t Hesitate”

Lime                1 drop

Lemon            1 drop

Basil                1 drop


 

nourish your skin with oil blends

nourish your skin with oil blends

3. Nourishing Body Oil Blend

For a coat of your body use 3 teaspoons of carrier oil in a little dish and, add 7 – 8 drops of essential oil. It’s always best to patch test first, before you apply all over.

***** Always put the drops of essential oil into the bottle or dish first, then add the carrier oil. It gives the scents time to create a synergistic fusion.

For a 50ml bottle of oil add 25 drops and see my articles “Ratios for Blending Essential Oils – A Reminder of the Basics” and “Aromatherapy – It’s Easy as 1 2 3”

“Energy NOW!”

Lime          2 drops

Rosemary  2 drops

Cypress     4 drops


“Life is Sweet”

Lime                3 drops

Peru Balsam    3 drops

Geranium         2 drops


lime is a happy colour too!

lime is a happy colour too!

 

Happy blending and remember to use your intention when you are creating your formulas. See my article about intention.

Check out my YouTube channel too, thanks.

copryright SR Banks 2015

10 Recipes with Ginger Essential Oil – Zingiber officinale

Please check out my new book REVELATION! – Reveal Your Destiny with Essential Oils

Barnes & Noble      Booktopia AU      Amazon UK

and many other stores worldwide as a Kindle and Paperback


10 Recipes with Ginger Essential Oil – Zingiber officinale

Beautiful ginger

Beautiful ginger

To me ginger essential oil is an oil that doesn’t necessarily smell how you think it will – especially if you have eaten eat before, or drunk tea with fresh ginger in it. Like black pepper essential oil, ginger is a spice oil that is a lot more gentle that the plant itself. It is soft and warming, slightly reminiscent of rosemary, with a spicy undertone that can take a few seconds to vapourise.

I’m writing about ginger today because yesterday I had my regular aromatherapy treatment and I was given ginger, orange and, um …. something else (I can’t remember now), and it was gorgeous!

In aromatherapy ginger essential oil is used:

* externally on the stomach for nausea

* as a general warming tonic

* to increase circulation to the extremities (important with people who have diabetes)

I use ginger oil metaphysically to help clients or friends (or myself), particularly when the emotions are stuck and a cold. Ginger is a great way to soften your emotions ans help you to become more approachable in your relationships, and may even help with finding your true purpose in life.

Here are some recipes:

An essential oil steam in the shower will do wonders for your mind and energy levels - pic via completehealthcircle.com

An essential oil steam in the shower will do wonders for your mind and energy levels – pic via completehealthcircle.com

1. Put A few Drops Of Oil into the bottom of the Shower

This works in a similar way to just taking a whiff straight from the bottle, but if you’ve got an extra minute, it will give you a completely different experience. Your whole body will be immersed in an essential oil steam. Just cover the drain with a cloth or your foot for a couple of minutes and breathe in the medicinal goodness


Check this out - an oil burner made from a can - pic via www.instructables.com

Check this out – an oil burner made from a can – pic via http://www.instructables.com

2. Scent Your Space

In a traditional oil burner with a candle or a diffuser add 25 drops of oil

“Job Interview Magic”

The evening before your interview immerse yourself in this –

Ginger                     10 drops

Petitgrain                   5 drops

Mandarin                   5 drops

Cedarwood Virginian  5 drops


“Change of Season”

Ginger can help you move through weather changes –

Ginger             8 drops

Lavender         9 drops

Frankincense     8 drops


 

“Let’s All Get Along Tonight”

Calm those crazy kids –

Ginger             9 drops

Orange          10 drops

Geranium        4 drops

Vetiver             2 drops


 

Rub oil into your body - it's good!

Rub oil into your body – it’s good!

3. Nourishing Body Oil Blend

For a coat of your body use 3 teaspoons of carrier oil in a little dish and, add 7 – 8 drops of essential oil. It’s always best to patch test first, before you apply all over.

***** Always put the drops of essential oil into the bottle or dish first, then add the carrier oil. It gives the scents time to create a synergistic fusion.

For a 50ml bottle of oil add 25 drops and see my articles “Ratios for Blending Essential Oils – A Reminder of the Basics” and “Aromatherapy – It’s Easy as 1 2 3″

“Sooooo Cold”

Warm up –

Ginger       3 drops

Rosemary  2 drops

Lemon       4 drops


 

“Pre-Workout Warmer”

Ginger       3 drops

Marjoram   2 drops

Grapefruit  2 drops


“High Seas”

If you’re feeling nauseous or travel sick –

Ginger          3 drops

Peppermint   2 drops

Fennel           2 drops


Chinese tea cup - perfect for a little perfume magic

Chinese tea cup – perfect for a little perfume magic

4. Pure Pulse Point Perfume

In a little dish mix these oils and anoint your pulse points or chakras – 3 drops of essential oils and dilute with a few drops of carrier oil – always patch test first!

“I Like Myself Today”

Ginger       1 drops

Rose 3%    3 drops  *see my article for more info on 3% blends in jojoba


“Kindness, Kindness, Kindness”

Ginger              1 drop

Lemon myrtle   1 drop

Lime                 1 drop


“Empathy”

Ginger         2 drops

Ylang Ylang  1 drop


Warming ginger root

Warming ginger root

Please embrace ginger essential oil – hopefully you’ll love it as much as I do.

Remember to treat yourself first, then everyone will benefit.

Check out my YouTube channel too, thanks.

copryright SR Banks 2015

10 Recipes with Petitgrain Essential Oil – Citrus aurantium v amara

Please check out my new book REVELATION! – Reveal Your Destiny with Essential Oils

Barnes & Noble      Booktopia AU      Amazon UK

and many other stores worldwide as a Kindle and Paperback


10 Recipes with Petitgrain Essential Oil – Citrus aurantium v amara

 

The leaves and twigs ready to be distilled into petitgrain oil

The leaves and twigs ready to be distilled into petitgrain oil

Ah beautiful, fresh petitgrain. This is one of my favourite oils along with neroli. They are produced from the same tree, but petitgrain comes from the leaves and twigs of the bitter citrus tree, whereas neroli is made from the gentle blossoms.

In my book “Revelation! Reveal Your Destiny with Essential Oils”,  I classify petitgrain as an oil of happiness with the keyword “potentiality”. It has a green citrus and almost spicy scent but is also fresh and clean. It is one of the scents in Eau de Cologne and is used in Aromatherapy as an oil to counteract depression and anxiety.

Here are some recipes:

Anoint yourself with pure essential oil blends

Anoint yourself with pure essential oil blends

1. Pure Pulse Point Perfume

In a little dish mix these oils and anoint your pulse points or chakras – 3 drops of essential oils and dilute with a few drops of carrier oil – always patch test first!

“Springtime Bliss”

Petitgrain       2 drops

Geranium       1 drop


“Awakening”

Petitgrain        1 drop

Nutmeg          1 drop

Lemon            1 drop


“Creativity +”

Petitgrain        1 drop

Clary Sage      1 drop

Lemongrass    1 drop


 

Love and Kisses

Petitgrain      2 drops

Rose 3%      2 drops


Petitgrain tree

Petitgrain tree

2. Personal Aura Cleansing Mist & Room Mist

In a 50ml mist bottle filled with water add 25 drops of oil

(depending on the packaging you have, you may need to use a little alcohol -like vodka- at the bottom of your bottle first, so the oils disperse into smaller drops to prevent clogging the atomiser top. I’ve found sometimes it works just with water, and sometimes it doesn’t – very annoying!)

“Love and Light”

Petitgrain      10 drops

Palmarosa     8 drops

Lavender       7 drops


 

“Fresh and Bright”

Petitgrain       8 drops

Cypress         7 drops

Lemongrass   6 drops

Basil               4 drops


“Contemplate”

Petitgrain             10 drops

Frankincense         8 drops

Indian Rosewood   7 drops


“Happy Kids”

Petitgrain        8 drops

Mandarin        8 drops

Peru Balsam  9 drops


 

Salt scrub - pic via themethuselahcenter.com

Salt scrub – pic via themethuselahcenter.com

3. Skin Scrub

Use a cup of fine sea salt, add some unperformed lotion, or some carrier oil, mix into a paste and then add your essential oils (about 5 drops, or a few more). You’re ready to scrub under the shower or in the bath, but remember to be gentle! If you use the scrub while standing in the bath you can then soak in the salt and oils too. When you shower scrub most of it gets wasted.

“Alive”

Petitgrain     3 drops

Patchouli     1 drops

Peppermint  1 drops


 

“Soothe”

Petitgrain     2 drops

Lavender      2 drops

Ylang Ylang  2 drops


The "little grain" bitter citrus fruit - pic via tambela.com

The “little grain” bitter citrus fruit – pic via tambela.com

Happy blending and remember to use your intention when you are creating your formulas. See my article about intention.

copryright SR Banks 2015

 

10 Recipes with Jasmine 3 % Essential Oil – Jasminum grandiflorum

Please check out my new book REVELATION! – Reveal Your Destiny with Essential Oils

Barnes & Noble      Booktopia AU      Amazon UK

and many other stores worldwide as a Kindle and Paperback

 


10 Recipes with Jasmine 3 % Essential Oil – Jasminum grandiflorum

A jasmine blossom in Sydney - pic by me

A jasmine blossom in Sydney – pic by me

Jasmine essential oil is stunning. I’m not sure how else to describe its heavenly scent. Jasmine is a sweet little flower with an almighty punch when it is converted into an oil – sweet and heady, syrupy and luscious. I recommend you always have a little bottle of this oil with you to open your energy to the feminine mystique within you.

Why do I say 3%? Jasmine is an expensive oil (yes you can buy it as a 100% pure essential oil), so it is more commonly found already diluted into a 3% ratio in jojoba oil. Aromatherapists usually work on a 2.5% ratio when blending so 3% essential oils are ready to use on your skin. For more info see my article “Essential Oils 3% in Jojoba – What are they, and Why?”.

3% of essential oils in the bottle of jojoba

3% of essential oils in the bottle of jojoba

There is more than one type of jasmine produced (The Jasmines –  A Love Story Full of Promises), but today we will be talking about Jasmine grandiflorum. Let’s check out some recipes.

Anoint yourself with pure essential oil blends

Anoint yourself with pure essential oil blends

1. Pure Pulse Point Perfume

In a little dish mix these oils and anoint your pulse points or chakras – 3 drops of essential oils and dilute with a few drops of carrier oil – always patch test first! (I will be adjusting the drops of 3% jasmine intuitively for these recipes).

“Straight Up”

Use jasmine 3% straight from the bottle to entrance yourself (and others)


“You”re Caught in my Web of Love”

Use this beautiful scent to draw others toward you

Jasmine 3%         3 drops

Rosewood           1 drop

Cypress                1 drop


“Deep Connection”

Stir your base chakra energy to connect with others

Jasmine 3%        3 drops

Patchouli             1 drop

Orange                1 drop


“Sweet Success”

Spring is just around the corner …….

Jasmine 3%        2 drops

Peru Balsam       1 drop

Lemon                1 drop


nourish your skin with oil blends

nourish your skin with oil blends

2. Nourishing Body Oil Blend

For a coat of your body use 3 teaspoons of carrier oil in a little dish and, add 7 – 8 drops of essential oil. It’s always best to patch test first, before you apply all over.

***** Always put the drops of essential oil into the bottle or dish first, then add the carrier oil. It gives the scents time to create a synergistic fusion.

For a 50ml bottle of oil add 25 drops and see my articles “Ratios for Blending Essential Oils – A Reminder of the Basics” and “Aromatherapy – It’s Easy as 1 2 3”

“I am Beautiful”

Yes you are

Jasmine 3%        5 drops

Bergamot            4 drops

Black Spruce      1 drop


“In the NOW”

Jasmine 3%      4 drops

Mandarin          4 drops

Ylang Ylang       1 drop


“Lollipops and Laughter”

Jasmine 3 %    4 drops

Lemongrass     2 drops

Geranium         2 drops


Classic oil burner with candle

Classic oil burner with candle

 

*******************

3% essential oils will NOT work

* in a vapouriser or oil burner

* in a mist bottle

*****************


Jasmine in Sydney - the sweet promise of spring!

Jasmine in Sydney – the sweet promise of spring!

If you have pure jasmine essential oil then here are some recipes for you

3. Scent Your Space

In a traditional oil burner with a candle or a diffuser add 25 drops of oil

“Tonight’s the Night”

Get a sexy space happening –

Jasmine                        6 drops

Petitgrain                     12 drops

Sandalwood Australian  3 drops

Juniper                          4 drops


“Believe”

Jasmine                   6 drops

Lime                        8 drops

Palmarosa                8 drops

Vanilla CO2 extract   4 drops


“Intuition”

Jasmine     5 drops

Nutmeg      5 drops

Cinnamon   5 drops

Bergamot  10 drops


 

 

Pretty flower, pretty scent

Pretty flower, pretty scent

Happy blending and remember to use your intention when you are creating your formulas. See my article about intention.

copryright SR Banks 2015

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

10 Recipes with Sage Essential Oil – Salvia officanalis

Please check out my new book REVELATION! – Reveal Your Destiny with Essential Oils

Amazon USA      Amazon AU      Amazon UK


10 Recipes with Sage Essential Oil – Salvia officanalis

Sage has a beautiful soft leaf with a pungent scent

Sage has a beautiful soft leaf with a pungent scent

I’ve written about sage before calling it “An Essential Oil of Wisdom and Abundance”.

In my book I refer to sage oil as an oil of wisdom and courage and it appears in the chapters about SPIRITUALITY, ABUNDANCE and DHARMA. It is a very powerful oil in its energetic resonance and scent, and I must admit in my practice I don’t use it nearly as much as the other herb oils, (sorry sage). It has a cousin called clary sage which is also quite pungent and both these oils can be used for feminine issues including;

* to stop milk production in lactating women

* to help regulate periods, and even participate in some pain relief with other oils

Sage is also used in aromatherapy today

* as a diuretic

* to ease sore throats

* to ease rheumatic pain

Fresh sage

Fresh sage

So let’s check out some recipes.

1. Open The Bottle and Take a Huge Whiff

Easy. This will open your throat, third eye and crown chakras to the intelligence of the universe.

It will help you realise, and speak the truth. Remember to be kind to yourself.


Classic oil burner with candle

Classic oil burner with candle

 

2. Scent Your Space

In a traditional oil burner with a candle or a diffuser add 25 drops of oil. You will notice the difference in the scent when you use a candle vapouriser as the oils are gently warmed and infused into the atmosphere. The fire of the candle is also transformational in its sheer existence. Transform and cleanse as you scent your space.

“Softly, Gently, Open Your Mind”

Sage            8 drops

Mandarin    12 drops

Patchouli      5 drops


“Stand Up for Yourself”

– in a compassionate way

Sage            6 drops

Fennel          6 drops

Petitgrain     13 drops


“Get Into The Flow”

Sage                   6 drops

Rose Geranium   6 drops

Cinnamon           6 drops

Orange               6 drops


a simple hairdressing mist bottle will do the trick for your amazing essential oil mist

A simple hairdressing mist bottle will do the trick for your amazing essential oil mist

3. Personal Aura Cleansing Mist & Room Mist

In a 50ml mist bottle filled with water add 25 drops of oil

(depending on the packaging you have, you may need to use a little alcohol -like vodka- at the bottom of your bottle first, so the oils disperse into smaller drops to prevent clogging the atomiser top. I’ve found sometimes it works just with water, and sometimes it doesn’t – very annoying!)

“I’ve Got My Own Thing Goin On”

Sage                5 drops

Peru Balsam   10 drops

Lime               10 drops


“I AM Living My Dream Life”

Sage                              8 drops

Bergamot                      10 drops

Sandalwood Australian    4 drops

Lavender                         3 drops


The classic Duralex glass dish is handy to make oil blends and quick perfumes in

The classic Duralex glass dish is handy to make oil blends and quick perfumes in

4. Pure Pulse Point Perfume

In a little dish mix these oils and anoint your pulse points or chakras – 3 drops of essential oils and dilute with a few drops of carrier oil – always patch test first!

“I’m Ready for Expansion”

Sage                  1 drop

Jasmine 3%       4 drops   * see my article for more info on 3% blends in jojoba


“Owl”

Sage          1 drop

Spearmint  1 drop

Lemon        1 drop


Nourish your body with a beautiful oil blend - pic via redbookmag.com

Nourish your body with a beautiful oil blend – pic via redbookmag.com

5. Nourishing Body Oil Blend

For a coat of your body use 3 teaspoons of carrier oil in a little dish and, add 7 – 8 drops of essential oil. It’s always best to patch test first, before you apply all over.

***** Always put the drops of essential oil into the bottle or dish first, then add the carrier oil. It gives the scents time to create a synergistic fusion.

For a 50ml bottle of oil add 25 drops and see my articles “Ratios for Blending Essential Oils – A Reminder of the Basics” and “Aromatherapy – It’s Easy as 1 2 3”

“That Time of the Month”

Sage           2 drops

Geranium    3 drops

Lavender     2 drops

Peppermint  1 drop


“Abundantia”

Sage              2 drops

Ylang Ylang    2 drops

Rose 3%        4 drops * see my article for more info on 3% blends in jojoba


Happy blending and remember to use your intention when you are creating your formulas. See my article about intention.

copryright SR Banks 2014

10 Recipes with Orange Essential Oil – Citrus sinensis

Please check out my new book REVELATION! – Reveal Your Destiny with Essential Oils

Amazon USA      Amazon AU      Amazon UK


10 Recipes with Orange Essential Oil – Citrus sinensis

Oranges and orange oil can make you happy!

Oranges and orange oil can make you happy!

I love orange oil because it’s light and fresh and so easy to use. Like most of the citrus oils the molecules are slightly less complex than other oils and have a smaller amount of chemical bonds. This makes them quite light and when using them to scent a room, you will need to anchor it down with a heavier oil to keep the scent around for a bit longer. You could use a wood like cedarwood or sandalwood; a floral like geranium or ylang ylang, or herbs like lavender and marjoram.

Citrus oils are best avoided in large amounts before going into the sun. A few drops in a blend will be fine but don’t lather yourself in orange and lime then head down to the beach for a full-on sunbaking session. They can be phytotoxic which means they can make your skin burn in the sun and while I’ve never seen evidence of this I’m sure people have found out the hard way.

Let’s go:

An essential oil steam in the shower will do wonders for your mind and energy levels - pic via completehealthcircle.com

An essential oil steam in the shower will do wonders for your mind and energy levels – pic via completehealthcircle.com

1. Put A few Drops Of Oil into the bottom of the Shower

This works in a similar way to just taking a whiff straight from the bottle, but if you’ve got an extra minute, it will give you a completely different experience. Your whole body will be immersed in an essential oil steam. Just cover the drain with a cloth or your foot for a couple of minutes and breathe in the medicinal goodness.

Orange oil will brighten your outlook.


There are lots of great essential oil diffusers on the market now - pic via www.aliexpress.com

There are lots of great essential oil diffusers on the market now – pic via http://www.aliexpress.com

2. Scent Your Space

In a traditional oil burner with a candle or a diffuser add 25 drops of oil

“Sweet Surrender”

Sweetly happy and content –

Orange             12 drops

Peru Balsam       7 drops

Rose Geranium   6 drops


“Cool Kids Space”

Create a lovely environment for the little ones –

Orange       15 drops

Cinnamon    5 drops

Marjoram     5 drops


“Invitation”

Invite happiness in –

Orange        10 drops

Palmarosa     8 drops

Lime              7 drops


“Pixies”

Connect to the elements –

Orange                           9 drops

Frankincense                 10 drops

Cedarwood Himalayan    6 drops


Chinese tea cup - perfect for a little perfume magic

Chinese tea cup – perfect for a little perfume magic

3. Pure Pulse Point Perfume

In a little dish mix these oils and anoint your pulse points or chakras – 3 drops of essential oils and dilute with a few drops of carrier oil – always patch test first!

“Helium Balloon”

Happiness and lightness –

Orange     2 drops

Geranium  1 drop


“Life is Wonderful”

Orange           1 drop

Jasmine 3%    2 drops * see my article for more info on 3% blends in jojoba


“Laughter is the Best Medicine”

Orange         1 drop

Lime             1 drop

Rosewood    1 drop


“In This Moment”

Be present –

Orange                            2 drops

Sandalwood Australian    1 drop


“Maybe”

I’ll make up my mind when I fee like it, I’m going with the flow today –

Orange         1 drop

Lemongrass  1 drop

Ylang Ylang   1 drop


Essential oils can make you happier

Citrus essential oils are all about making you happier

 

Remember to treat yourself first, then everyone will benefit.

copryright SR Banks 2014

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

10 Recipes with Neroli Essential Oil – Citrus aurantium ssp amara/Bigaradia

Please check out my new book REVELATION! – Reveal Your Destiny with Essential Oils

Amazon USA      Amazon AU      Amazon UK


10 Recipes with Neroli Essential Oil – Citrus aurantium

citrus blossom that makes neroli oil

The citrus blossom that makes neroli oil

Pretty flower. Very pretty scent.

Neroli essential oil is made from the blossom of a couple of citrus trees which do produce bitter fruit, sometimes used for marmalade – but the main focus is to harvest the blossoms for perfume. Thank you tree, your perfume is beautiful!

In the world of essential oils and plant-based medicine it is a relative newcomer. While some herbs and oils have been used for thousands of years (lavender, myrrh, frankincense, cypress for example), this scent was made popular in Italy in the 1700’s. The story goes that,

“by the end of the 17th century, Anne Marie Orsini, duchess of Bracciano and princess of Nerola, Italy, introduced the essence of bitter orange tree as a fashionable fragrance by using it to perfume her gloves and her bath. Since then, the term “neroli” has been used to describe this essence.”

 

The principality of Nerola is close to Rome where the Princess really worked the diplomacy angle in the Italian capital, securing her future in the courts of France, Spain and Rome. The essence was used particularly in Venice to ward off water born viruses and nasties.

Anne-Marie-de-La-Tremoille_Dss-Bracciano via wikipedia.com

Anne-Marie-de-La-Tremoille_Dss-Bracciano via wikipedia.com

It is an oil that is precious and expensive to make and therefore is mostly sold in a 3% blend. (see my article “Essential Oils 3% in Jojoba – What are they, and Why?” for more information on 3% blends).

Let’s check out some recipes with Neroli 3%:

1. Facial Oil Treatment

Mix one or two drops of essential oil in one teaspoon of carrier oil. You can warm the oil slightly first if desired – it will be very relaxing! Massage your face and rest for 10 minutes. You can also place a cool or warm wet face cloth on your face as a compress over the oil mask. Remove excess oil with a tissue or cloth.

Neroli 3%    4 drops


 

The classic Duralex glass dish is handy to make oil blends and quick perfumes in

The classic Duralex glass dish is handy to make oil blends and quick perfumes in

2. Pure Pulse Point Perfume

In a little dish mix these oils and anoint your pulse points or chakras – 3 drops of essential oils and dilute with a few drops of carrier oil – always patch test first!

“Bride”

Perfect to calm the nerves and smell wonderful too –

Neroli 3%      5 drops

Ylang Ylang   1 drop


“Summer Nights”

Get into your happy summer place –

Neroli 3%       3 drops

Lemongrass   1 drop

Lavender        1 drop


Anoint yourself with pure essential oil blends

Anoint yourself with pure essential oil blends

“Whimsical”

Neroli 3% straight from the bottle on your wrists and heart


“Quietly Powerful”

When you need a little oomph –

Neroli                         3 drops

Cedarwood Virginian  1 drop

Nutmeg                      1 drop


 

nourish your skin with oil blends

nourish your skin with oil blends

3. Nourishing Body Oil Blend

For a coat of your body use 3 teaspoons of carrier oil in a little dish and, add 7 – 8 drops of essential oil. It’s always best to patch test first, before you apply all over.

***** Always put the drops of essential oil into the bottle or dish first, then add the carrier oil. It gives the scents time to create a synergistic fusion.

For a 50ml bottle of oil add 25 drops and see my articles “Ratios for Blending Essential Oils – A Reminder of the Basics” and “Aromatherapy – It’s Easy as 1 2 3”

“Sweetness and Light”

Neroli 3%        8 drops

Lemon            2 drops

Frankincense  2 drops


“Youthful Glow”

Neroli 3%            6 drops

White Grapefruit  4 drops

Rose Geranium   1 drop


And if you have Neroli pure essential oil then you can use it in a vapouriser or in a mist bottle. The 3% blend is only good for mixing with oil or in a cream for your face and body, or using direct from the bottle as a perfume. Here are some recipes with pure Neroli oil:

Any bottle with an atomiser top will do!

Any bottle with an atomiser top will do!

4. Personal Aura Cleansing Mist & Room Mist

In a 50ml mist bottle filled with water add 25 drops of oil

(depending on the packaging you have, you may need to use a little alcohol -like vodka- at the bottom of your bottle first, so the oils disperse into smaller drops to prevent clogging the atomiser top. I’ve found sometimes it works just with water, and sometimes it doesn’t – very annoying!)

“Divinity”

Neroli           8 drops

Palmarosa    8 drops

Bergamot     9 drops


“Seduction”

Neroli              10 drops

Sandalwood      6 drops

Juniper              6 drops

Cinnamon         3 drops


“I Am”

Neroli         8 drops

Orange      6 drops

Patchouli   4 drops

Cypress     6 drops

Spikenard   1 drop


Happy blending and remember to use your intention when you are creating your formulas. See my article about intention

copryright SR Banks 2014

 

 

 

 

10 Recipes with Spearmint Essential Oil – Mentha spicata

Flowering spearmint - Mentha spicata

Flowering spearmint – Mentha spicata

Ah beautiful spearmint! It always comes off second best compared to peppermint, but it has a wonderfully sweet and soft nature. It is part of the very big Lamiacae family (which is actually called the Mint Family). This family of plants contains all the herbs; lavender, marjoram, thyme, oregano, patchouli, peppermint sage, clary sage, melissa and many more. This family contains many plants that have been used in healing for thousands of years and became popular again in medieval times.

I was first introduced to spearmint as a kid. With this

The classic Wrigley's Spearmint sticks

The classic Wrigley’s Spearmint sticks

Not only was the flavour amazing but this gum came in sticks, not pellets. I thought this was the best thing ever, and can still feel the cool flat, slightly powdery finish on the gum.

But I digress.

Back to the plant and oil.

If you think that spearmint and peppermint have similar qualities you’d be right. Spearmint just has a more friendly scent as it’s milder and appeals to kids too. Peppermint can be a bit spicy for some people, so that’s where spearmint is great. So how can you use it in aromatherapy recipes?

Just use any mist bottle you can find it doesn't have to be glamourous to get the job done

Just use any mist bottle you can find it doesn’t have to be glamourous to get the job done

1. Personal Aura Cleansing Mist & Room Mist

In a 50ml mist bottle filled with water add 25 drops of oil

(depending on the packaging you have, you may need to use a little alcohol -like vodka- at the bottom of your bottle first, so the oils disperse into smaller drops to prevent clogging the atomiser top. I’ve found sometimes it works just with water, and sometimes it doesn’t – very annoying!)

“Happy Kids Happy Life”

Spritz around the little ones to lighten up the vibe –

Spearmint          10 drops

Orange               10 drops

Geranium              5 drops


“I Think I Ate Too Much”

Spearmint         8 drops

Lemon             12 drops

Lime                  5 drops


“Light and Happy”

Refresh your aura –

Spearmint         8 drops

Bergamot          8 drops

Rosewood         5 drops

Frankincense     4 drops


“New Workspace Energy”

Change the feeling in your creative space for the better –

Spearmint        6 drops

Mandarin        12 drops

Lavender          5 drops

Patchouli          2 drops


Anoint yourself with pure essential oil blends

Anoint yourself with pure essential oil blends

2. Pure Pulse Point Perfume

In a little dish mix these oils and anoint your pulse points or chakras – 3 drops of essential oils and dilute with a few drops of carrier oil – always patch test first!

“Faeries Live in My Garden”

Spearmint                       1 drop

Roman chamomile 3%    3 drops  * see my article for more info on 3% blends in jojoba


“The Only Way is Up”

You CAN be a positive about the future –

Spearmint           1 drop

Lemongrass        1 drop

Rose Geranium   1 drop


“Today WILL be Easy!”

Spearmint     1 drop

Neroli 3%      3 drops * see my article for more info on 3% blends in jojoba


 

 

Lovely long hair in great condition

Add essential oils to keep your hair in great condition

 

3. Hair Mask

Warm 3 teaspoons of oil (either olive or jojoba) and add 7 to 8 drops of essential oil. Massage into your hair from the ends up. Wrap your hair in a towel (or some plastic wrap then a towel). Leave for 1 hour, or overnight, then wash and condition as usual. This is the same ratio for a body oil blend and for more info see my articles “Ratios for Blending Essential Oils – A Reminder of the Basics” and  “Aromatherapy – It’s Easy as 1 2 3”.

Spearmint       2 drops

Lavender        4 drops

Rosemary       1 drop


 

A bath can be so luxurious! pic via www.housetohome.co.uk

A bath can be so luxurious! pic via http://www.housetohome.co.uk

4. Soak in a bath

I don’t often recommend adding too many essential oils to a bath as they are difficult to disperse and can cause minor skin irritations when combined with the heat of the water. If you do like to use them in a bath, try 4 -6 drops in total and add the drops to another medium like sea salt, coconut milk, other milks or a water dispersible agent.

“Evening Treat”

Spearmint       2 drops

Ylang Ylang     2 drops


“Morning Zinger”

Spearmint      2 drops

Juniper          1 drop

Cypress         1 drop


Happy blending and remember to use your intention when you are creating your formulas. See my article about intention.

copryright SR Banks