How to Use Essential Oils – A Dummies Guide

Are you new to essential oils, or do you need a reminder on the many ways to use these little gifts from nature? Check this article out now!

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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

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50 ml bespoke body oil made by me

50 ml bespoke body oil made by me

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”


 

Anyone can give themselves a face mask!

Anyone can give themselves a face mask!

2. Face Mask

I usually 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.


 

mist away your stale energy

mist away your stale energy

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!)


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!


Sexy black diffuser from puzhen.com

Sexy black diffuser from puzhen.com

 

 

5. Scent Your Space

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


 

Cute little Australian citrus oils

It’s easy to open one of these cute little bottles and take a whiff

6. Open The Bottle and Take a Huge Whiff


Any carrier oil will be a good base for an oil mask

Any carrier oil will be a good base for an oil mask

7. 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 facecloth on your face as a compress over the oil mask. Remove excess oil with a tissue or cloth if necessary.


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

 

 

8. 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.


Olive oil is great for hair

Olive oil is great for hair

 

 

9. 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”.


a petal bath - looks great but the cleaning -UGH!

a petal bath – looks great but the cleaning -UGH!

 

 

10. 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.


 

 

Salt scrub - pic via themethuselahcenter.com

Salt scrub – pic via themethuselahcenter.com

11. 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.


 

Steam inhalation - pic via www.tophealthremedies.com

Steam inhalation – pic via http://www.tophealthremedies.com

12. 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 and sore throat. Add another drop of oil if necessary.


 

 

 

Space Cleansing and Protection

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

Amazon USA      Amazon AU      Amazon UK


Chapter 11

Space Cleansing and Protection

Another look in between the covers of my book

Cedar smudge sticks - pic via www.livingwild.org

Cedar smudge sticks – pic via http://www.livingwild.org

Space cleansing has been traditionally accompanied by herbs and a smoking technique called “smudging”. This has been employed by many indigenous people throughout the world using sage, tea tree and other raw materials.

Essential oils can do the same thing in an easier way and also give you a bubble of protection from negativity.

A personal mist is easy to make! pic via ebay.com.au

A personal mist is easy to make! pic via ebay.com.au

The easiest way to surround and protect yourself is to create a mist with some oils and carry it with you wherever you go. Mist yourself, your car and your work space for an immediate cleanse, and an energetic seal that indicates this is your space, divinely scented.

My tips to make a 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!)

Throw some essential oils into your bucket and mop your floors

Throw some essential oils into your bucket and mop your floors

And of course if you add essential oils to your house cleaning regime you have the added benefits of an aromatherapy treatment too. The essential oils go to work to help stagnating energy disappear, leaving you with a fresh, clean vibe and scent.

Here are some oils I recommend you use:

“Juniper

spontaneous lightness

I’ve always used juniper to release negative, watery, emotions. When you can let go of emotions and energy that do not serve your highest good. it is easier to find a more positive vibe…. If you want a champion of “protection” juniper will not let you down. Juniper has the sent of sophistication.”

 

 

tea tree

tea tree

“Tea Tree

purifying

 

Tea tree is brilliant for removing bacteria and other impurities from your environment and most people equate tea tree with this action….. There is noting subtle about tea tree, but don’t be hesitant to use it in a diffuser or sample it and take it with you in your bag….. If you feel like you need a sturdy force of purity in your space try tea tree with some softer oils to make your potion pleasing as well as powerful.”

 

As a quick method of personal protection put a couple of drops of essential oils in your palms, rub them together, then smoothe down your energetic field with the oil (it will look as thought you are stroking nothing, with your hands about 10cm from your actual body).

Voila! Instant recalibration!

To find out which other essential oils can help you cleanse your space and add a little protection from the outside, click on one of the links below.

Amazon USA      Amazon AU      Amazon UK

Thanks everyone.

copryright SR Banks

 

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

 

 

 

10 Recipes with Cypress – Cupressus sempervirens

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

Amazon USA      Amazon AU      Amazon UK


10 Recipes with Cypress – Cupressus sempervirens

Cypress is a conifer belonging to the Cupressaceae family

Cypress is a conifer belonging to the Cupressaceae family

I love this oil!

Clean, crisp, light and green, the essential oil of Cypress takes us back to the time of stories in religious books – the Bible, The Torah and many others we have probably never seen. It is an old family of trees and shrubs and there are many species spanning the globe. These wonderful trees have been known to last thousands of years (the word sempervirens means “ever-living” says Aromatherapist Salvatore Battaglia), and according to Wikipedia this cypress is …

“also known as Italian, Tuscan, or Graveyard Cypress, or Pencil Pine) is a species of cypressnative to the eastern Mediterranean region, in northeast Libya, southern Albania, southeast Greece (Crete, Rhodes), southern Turkey, Cyprus, Northern Egypt, western Syria, Lebanon, Israel, Malta, Italy, western Jordan, and also a disjunct population in Iran.”

In Australia we have a cypress that is called Australian Blue Cypress, which has a deep blue hue to the essential oil. It is a different species to the classic cypress used in Aromatherapy, and you can read more about it here.

Ok so in Aromatherapy cypress is used

* to release excess water from the body

* to tonify veins

* help the symptoms of coughs and lung disorders like asthma and bronchitis

I like to use this oil to expand consciousness and help someone move from ego into spirit. It has a wonderful quality to help us move through overwhelming human situations, allowing us to see the truth.

Let’s check out some recipes –

Oils are nourishing for your body

Oils are nourishing for your body

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”

“Lovely Legs”

Help the noticeable veins be less noticeable –

Cypress                            3 drops

Lavender                           3 drops

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


“Tone”

Feel a little more pulled-together –

Cypress               3 drops

Mandarin             3 drops

Juniper                2 drops


“I Need a Miracle”

Cypress                2 drops

Petitgrain              2 drops

Geranium              2 drops

Rosewood            2 drops


“Ancient Knowledge”

Cypress                     2 drops

Sandalwood Indian    2 drops

Orange                      4 drops


 

A personal mist is easy to make! pic via ebay.com.au

A personal mist is easy to make! pic via ebay.com.au

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!)

“Renew My Vibe”

Cypress        12 drops

Lemongrass   6 drops

Lime               6 drops

Rosemary       3 drops


“I’m Expecting a Miracle Here”

Cypress        10 drops

Bergamot       8 drops

Marjoram       4 drops

Cinnamon      3 drops


“Get Outta My Way (Very Subtlely)”

Cypress                  8 drops

Ylang Ylang            8 drops

Cedarwood Atlas    4 drops

Palmarosa               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

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!

“Crisp Day”

Cypress      2 drops

May chang  1 drop


 

“Cool Night”

Cypress         1 drop

Peru Balsam  1 drop

Lemon           1 drop


“Just for Me”

Cypress      1 drop

Rose 3%     3 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

 

 

 

Scents for the Spring/Autumn Equinox

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

Amazon USA      Amazon AU      Amazon UK


 

Scents for the Spring/Autumn Equinox

Sorry I’m a week too late for the equinox but it’s never too late to start using essential oils.

So for some of us its spring. Yay for us!

Beautiful spring blossoms

Beautiful spring blossoms

Which oils are our oils?

Jasmine

sweet syrupy floral, deep base scent, sensuality and sexuality, promise of good things to come

This is the perfect oil for spring as it bursts forth heralding the last of winter. When I see the jasmine starting to come alive on the streets of Sydney I get very, very excited. I’m happy because I know the scent will surround me, and I’m happy because winter has gone. Bye. See ya. Don’t come back for at least another year.

The great thing about jasmine oil is that you’ll usually find it in a 3% dilution (mainly due to the fact that is an expensive oil to make). This means use it straight from the bottle as a perfume and bewitch the world with your feminine wiles! See my article for more info on 3% blends in jojoba.


 

Lemongrass

sticky lemon scent with a grassy twist, energising, happiness, let’s go summer!

I love lemongrass as it’s inexpensive, can be found almost anywhere, and gives us a bit of extra energy. Perfect for shaking of the winter blahs.

The best way to use lemongrass to increase your energy level is to make a 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”)

try

Lemongrass                   3 drops

Cedarwood Himalayan   2 drops

Orange                           2 drops


 

And for others it’s autumn. Yay for you!

The stunning rich tones of autumn

The stunning rich tones of autumn

Which oils are your oils?

Fennel

liquorice type scent, be kind to yourself, self nourishment, warm and calming

Fennel is a beautiful oil to embrace in autumn when the vegetable is in season too. It is an oil that’s great for warming and helping digestion, and for deconstructing chest catarrh. It also has a very soft and calming feel to it and works well with so many different oils.

Try scenting your space by putting 25 drops of oil into a traditional oil burner with a candle or a diffuser.

try

Fennel        8  drops

Bergamot  12 drops

Geranium    5 drops


Frankincense

clear and crisp scent, induces deeper slower breathing, gently calm down after a lovely summer

Frankincense helps us look within and be calm. Take some deep breaths of the cooling autumn air to let your body know winter is coming. It is a time of being thankful for the lovely summer, and to plant spiritual seeds for the future. Invite meditation into your space with an aura cleansing mist containing frankincense.

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!)

try

Frankincense      14 drops

Mandarin             7 drops

Patchouli             4 drops


 

 

Lavender is the most versatile essential oil we have and it can be used all through the year

Lavender is the most versatile essential oil we have and it can be used all through the year

And of course use lavender all year round!

Remember to treat yourself first, then everyone will benefit.

copryright SR Banks

 

 

10 Recipes with Vetiver Essential Oil

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

Amazon USA      Amazon AU      Amazon UK


10 Recipes with Vetiver Essential Oil

 

Hairy vetiver root
Hairy vetiver root

Vetiver essential oil (Vetiveria zizanoides) is steam distilled from the root or “rhizome” of the plant. As you can see from the pic above the rhizome is hairy and fine, exposing as much surface area as possible to the surrounding soil. This scent of vetiver is similar to damp soil, although this is a simplification. It is an essential oil that is used extensively in perfume as a “fixative”; bringing all the scents together and binding or fixing them into a cohesive blend. It is used in many scents for men due it’s strong, deep, smoky aroma- but having said that it is also used in women’s perfumes too.

less IS more via zazzle.com
less IS more via zazzle.com

In aromatherapy it is therapeutically used for many things, and is also used the bind a formula together. I would use 1 drop of vetiver in a formula to make this possible. The most important thing to remember about vetiver is that the scent is so strong, less is more!

One drop is enough in a small oil blend for your body.

Vetiver is sometimes referred to as “The Oil of Tranquility”, especially in India where it is commonly used, and produced. If you just remember this little phrase you will automatically know what to use vetiver oil for – relaxing, de-stressing and being tranquil. It can also be used in hair care and skincare as a moisturiser for dryness.

Let’s check out some recipes;

1. Nourishing Body Oil

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”

“Crocodile Skin”

Remove the scaliness –

Lavender      3 drops

Palmarosa   3 drops

Vetiver         1 drop


“Softly, Gently”

Calm yourself down by oiling yourself up –

Lemon             3 drops

Jasmine 3%    10 drops * see my article for more info on 3% blends in jojoba

Vetiver               1 drop


“Head in the Clouds”

Bring yourself down to earth and get “grounded” –

Lemongrass                     3 drops

Roman Chamomile 3%    6 drops * see my article for more info on 3% blends in jojoba

Vetiver                              1 drop


2. 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”.

Rosemary   2 drops

Lavender    2 drops

Orange       2 drops

Vetiver        2 drops


3. Scent Your Space

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

“Slow it Down Sister”

Chill, be calm

Marjoram    8 drops

Mandarin    8 drops

Spearmint   7 drops

Vetiver        2 drops


“Kids. Driving. Me. Nuts. Help”

Petitgrain                   10 drops

Cedarwood Virginian    6 drops

Peru Balsam                6 drops

Vetiver                         3 drops


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!)

“Givin Myself Some Room”

Allow time to relax –

Rosewood         8 drops

Bergamot          8  drops

Ylang Ylang       4  drops

Cinnamon         4 drops

Vetiver               1 drop


“Serenity NOW!”

Orange                           10 drops

Rose Geranium               8 drops

Cedarwood Himalayan    5 drops

Vetiver                             2 drops


“Sweet Sleep”

Lavender    9 drops

Lime           8 drops

Marjoram    6 drops

Vetiver        2 drops


 

5. 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.

“Finally Me Time”

Frankincense   3 drops

Vetiver             1 drop


Remember to treat yourself first, then everyone will benefit.

copryright SR Banks

Ratios for Blending Essential Oils – A Reminder of the Basics

Hello natural beauties and scent lovers everywhere! I’ve written this article just to remind you about general ratios when blending essential oil. Always err on the side of caution and use your intuition too.

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

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

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

I love glass measuring equipment but you don't need anything like this to make a blend

I love glass measuring equipment but you don’t need anything like this to make a blend

I have written about this before but I think we need a reminder of the correct ratios to employ when making aromatherapy skin care, baths, face masks, hair masks and anything else you can think of. I’ll also include the amounts to use in vapourisers and oil burners.

It is important to be exact and err on the side of caution when using essential oils on your skin.

It is not important to be exact when you are using essential oils in a vapouriser to scent a space.

Officially it is not recommended you use essential oils on your skin directly from the bottle!

 

Body oils make lovely legs

Body oils make lovely legs

 

1. Nourishing Body Oil Blend

For a coat of your body use 3 teaspoons of carrier oil (approx 15 mls) in a little dish and, add 7 – 8 drops of essential oil. This is a standard ratio of 2.5% essential oils to carrier oil.

20 mls        10 drops

25 mls        12 drops

30 mls        15 drops

35 mls        17 drops

40 mls        20 drops

45 mls        22 drops

50 mls        25 drops

***** 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.

(Also see my article “Aromatherapy – It’s Easy as 1 2 3” for more info)

 

Any mist bottle will do - although the heavier the plastic in the pump the longer it will last

Any mist bottle will do – although the heavier the plastic in the pump the longer it will last

 

2. Mist – For a Room or as a Personal Aura Mist

The same quantities as above. You can add more if you like but remember not to spray near your eyes.

50 mls     25 drops

100 mls  50 drops

150 mls  75 drops

200 mls 100 drops

 

Almost fill the bottle with water then add your oils. Shake before you mist. I don’t use emulsifying agents as I like to keep it simple. You can even just buy a mist bottle from a supermarket but once a plastic atomiser top and bottle have been used for essential oils you can’t re-use them (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!)

Don’t fill up the bottle with water and mist your plants as the residue may kill them.

 

Any carrier oil will be a good base for an oil mask

Any carrier oil will be a good base for an oil mask

 

3. An Oil Blend (or mask) for Your Face, Children and In Pregnancy

Use half the above ratio – 1.25% ratio of essential oils to carrier oil.

20 mls        5 drops

25 mls        6 drops

30 mls       7 drops

35 mls        8 drops

40 mls        10 drops

45 mls       11 drops

50 mls        12 drops

***** 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.

Pregnancy – Some oils are not recommended in pregnancy so it’s best to do some research if you are treating yourself, or ask the advice of an Aromatherapist.  I have treated many women through multiple pregnancies and have had great results. The truth is that there are probably many more toxic chemicals in their home environments than essential oils but always use caution!

Children – Same for kids. They respond really well to essential oils but only use oils they like the smell of otherwise you may create a negative experience. You will have more positive results if you create a room/personal mist and gently mist around your child so they treatment is more fun and likely to work quickly. See my articles for more info on babies and kids – Essential Oils and Babies – Do They Go Together?  and Essential Oils and Children – Do They Go Together?

 

Be careful when adding essential oils to your bath

Be careful when adding essential oils to your bath

4. In Baths

I would only use up to 6 drops of oil in a bath. I have tried many natural emulsification agents but none work 100%. I like to put the oils into mediums, then add them to the bath. Try adding your oils into –

Dead Sea Salt

Celtic Sea Salt

Coconut milk

Magnesium Salt (Epsom salts)

Bi-Carb Soda

A Natural Bodywash/liquid soap like Castille Soap

 

** I don’t recommend using essential oils in the bath with kids as it can sting their legs. The oils combined with the heat of the water can be too strong for their beautiful skin. (See me article “Aunty, something is biting my legs” – 10 things NOT to do when using Essential Oils”  for more info).

Enjoy the process!

copyright suzannerbanks 2013

10 Recipes with Himalayan Cedarwood – Cedrus deodora

Stunning pic of Himalayan cedarwood via www.efloras.org credit KK Shrestha

Stunning pic of Himalayan cedarwood via http://www.efloras.org credit KK Shrestha

Himalayan cedarwood has a deep history in Hindu traditions, as a tree that creates sacred forests, spurring a closer connection to Shiva through meditation. In Ayurveda the oil has been used to treat bronchial and lung disorders, urinary tract infections and to release fluid from the body. The oil is also considered a spiritual oil which helps to expand consciousness. In modern aromatherapy it is used for the same issues, and has a much softer, creamier scent than Atlas cedarwood or Virginian cedarwood (which is actually a juniper tree).

Let’s check out some recipes –

Face mask it!

Face mask it!

1. 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.

Great for oily or acne skin add 1 drop of Himalayan cedarwood to some pink clay for a clarifying and toning mask.

—————————————————————————————————————–

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

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

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’m the One and Only”

Respect yourself –

Himalayan cedarwood       2 drops

Orange                              4 drops

Lavender                            2 drops

——————————————————————————————————————

“Forest of Dreams”

Click into the vibes of the sacred Deodora forests –

Himalayan cedarwood       2 drops

Rosewood                         3 drops

Bergamot                          3 drops

——————————————————————————————————————

“Energy Now!”

Himalayan cedarwood       3 drops

Lemongrass                      4 drops

——————————————————————————————————————

A personal mist is easy to make! pic via ebay.com.au

A personal mist is easy to make! pic via ebay.com.au

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!)

“Portable Sacred Space”

Himalayan cedarwood       8 drops

Mandarin                         10 drops

May Chang                        4 drops

Sage                                  3 drops

——————————————————————————————————————

“Meditation Anywhere”

Himalayan cedarwood       6 drops

Frankincense                  12 drops

Lime                                 7 drops

——————————————————————————————————————

“Overthinking, 0: Feeling, 1”

Himalayan cedarwood       8 drops

Peru balsam                      8 drops

Ginger                               4 drops

Geranium                          4 drops

Vetiver                               1 drop

——————————————————————————————————————

Anoint yourself with pure essential oil blends

Anoint yourself with pure essential oil blends

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!

“Thankful”

Himalayan cedarwood       1 drop

Lemon                               1 drop

Ylang Ylang                        1 drop

——————————————————————————————————————

Changing my Epi-Genetic Markers”

Himalayan cedarwood       1 drop

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

——————————————————————————————————————

“Inter Stellar Travel”

Himalayan cedarwood       1 drop

Roman Chamomile 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.

copyright suzannerbanks 2013

 

 

 

 

Essential Oils and Children – Do They Go Together?

Last week I wrote an article on babies and essential oils “Essential Oils and Babies – Do They Go Together?” and similar rules apply to kids too.

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“Babies – only use essential oils in their environment – not on them!

 

Can you use essential oils on babies?

 

Short answer = YES – but not on them directly.

 

Long Answer =  YES but you must use caution and follow these rules.”

suzannerbanks

 

So when it comes to kids, 3 years to about 12 years old, I would stick with similar recommendations. The ratio of essential oils for kids and in pregnancy, and on the face,lav is half than that of an adult. See my articles “Ratios for Blending Essential Oils – A Reminder of the Basics” and “Aromatherapy – It’s Easy as 1 2 3” for standard adult ratios.

It is better to use essential oils in the environment of children as they respond really well to the scent as it goes to work through their brain. As children get older you can use more variety of essential oils compared to babies, but in general I’d always stick with lavender and a few others.

Kids respond really well to essential oils used in their environment

Kids respond really well to essential oils used in their environment

I would apply these same rules to kids as I would to babies, paying particular attention to keeping them out of reach –

* do not use essential oils, diluted or neat, on your child unless you seek medical advice.

* do not put essential oils into the bath, diluted or neat.

* always wash you hands before you touch your child if you’ve been using essential oils

* keep bottles of essential oils away from reach, as even a couple of drops may hurt them

Essential oils can be poisonous if ingested so make sure kids cannot get to the bottles.

 

ouch!

ouch!

 

Cuts and Scrapes

I have always used this method with all my nieces and nephews – clean the wound with saline or warm water (or whatever you usually use), then put 1 drop of lavender onto the gauze/absorbent part of the band aid. You don’t have to worry about the oils going directly into the skin and stinging as it just provides a tiny source of anti-inflammatory action and some minor pain relief.

 

Kids Crying and Whingeing – Stress and Sleep Blends

I would put a drop of vetiver oil on myself and then cuddle my child, as it is a very powerful stress reliever and a grounding agent.

You could also make an aura cleansing mist, and mist around your child (avoid eye contact), or in the car before you put them in. This also works as as energetic space cleansing mist for their room and your house too.

 

Any mist bottle will do - although the heavier the plastic in the pump the longer it will last

Any mist bottle will do – although the heavier the plastic in the pump the longer it will last

 

Personal Aura Cleansing Mist & Room Mist

In a 50ml mist bottle filled with water add 12 drops of oil (usually 25 drops of oil for an adult)

(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!)

“Anytime Chill Out”

Lavender      4 drops

Orange         4 drops

Petitgrain      3 drops

Vetiver          1 drop


“Close Your Eyes”

To help induce relaxation and sleep – try misting a little on the sheets –

Lavender      4 drops

Mandarin      4 drops

Marjoram      4 drops


 

Fun times - pic ia ksoo.com

Fun times – pic ia ksoo.com

 

Some oils suitable for children are the premium oils already presented in a 3% jojoba blend. For more info on these blends see my article on 3% blends in jojoba. You may use a little of these oils on them but also use your intuition.

Depending the age of your child I would probably use a few drops and then add the same amount, or more,  of carrier oil to get to a softer ratio.

You can –

* use on the temples, back of the neck and wrists to help your child feel better and cool the body in a fever

* use few drops of your blend on your own hands, then stroke the forehead, chest and whatever you think you need to do to calm them down

* apply a few drops of your blend to you hands an gently stroke the stomach chest and lower back for stomach pain and sorrow

Rose  – cool the body, nurture their spirit

Neroli – to help relieve stress and anxiety

Roman Chamomile – great for stomach cramps this oil has a beautiful scent and may even help with sleep and for generally relaxing

 

Puzhen diffuser from the 5 senses series - puzhen.com

Puzhen diffuser from the 5 senses series – puzhen.com

 

Other oils for the diffuser or vapouriser could include –

bergamot – relieve tension, inspire happiness

orange, mandarin – kids love the smell of these oils, so they are already working on their attitude through their brains – but once again don’t use these oils on their bodies!

frankincense – great for asthmatics as it inspires deeper breathing and total relaxation

peppermint – to relieve nausea in the sick room and to freshen the energy

*******

I have used essential oils on all the kids in my family in some form or another for the past 20 years. Always use caution. Always use your intuition and always seek out more information if you are not sure.

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

copyright suzannerbanks 2013

 

 

10 Recipes with Lemon Essential Oil – Citrus limonum

According to living.msn.com this Pantone colour Lemon Zest was a top colour for spring 2013

According to living.msn.com this Pantone colour Lemon Zest was a top colour for spring 2013 – nice!

Lemons are lovely and so are you. Lemons represent happiness, simplicity and joy and the essential oil has an uncanny knack of doing the same. I love this oil and use it frequently when treating clients. Not only is it a great oil for muscle fatigue but it helps you to feel refreshed and cleansed, ready to go on with a new outlook.

Lemon essential oil is light and sparkly and has many applications. As the molecules of this essential oil are simple, it tends to fly away quickly when used in a vapouriser or burner so it’s important to anchor it with heavier oils. As a perfume or body oil blend it holds its own but has slight photo-toxic qualities – meaning if you go out into the sun you could burn more than you would without it. So just remember not to slather it all over you and sunbake – ok?

Lets check out some recipes with magnificent lemon oil –

Rub oil into your body - it's good!

Rub oil into your body – it’s good!

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.

***** 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”

“End of the Week Relaxathon”

Get rid of the working week and into a relaxing weekend –

Lemon            4 drops

Peru Balsam   4 drops

—————————————————————————————————————–

“Anti-Puff”

Release puffiness and a feel a bit lighter –

Lemon      3 drops

Fennel      2 drops

Cypress   3 drops

——————————————————————————————————————

“Legs Up The Wall”

When your legs and feet hurt use this blend and then elevate your legs and rest –

Lemon         4 drops

Marjoram      2 drops

Peppermint   2 drops

——————————————————————————————————————

 

Face mask it!

Face mask it!

2. Face Mask

Usually add 1 or 2 drops of oil to some clay and add water, floral water or hydrosol.

2 drops of lemon oil will be great for acne skin, oily skin and if you just need to freshen up dull skin.

——————————————————————————————————————

Any bottle with an atomiser top will do!

Any bottle with an atomiser top will do!

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!)

“New Ideas”

Lemon        12 drops

Basil              5 drops

Palmarosa     5 drops

Geranium      3 drops

——————————————————————————————————————

“Lemon Bubble”

Create your own lemony bubble around you in a non-friendly environment –

Lemon          15 drops

Lavender         5 drops

Marjoram         5 drops

Vanilla CO2      3 drops

——————————————————————————————————————

“Vitality”

Keep your interest and energy levels up all day with a regular mist –

Lemon       10 drops

Juniper        8 drops

Mandarin     5 drops

Rosemary    2 drops

——————————————————————————————————————

Anoint yourself with pure essential oil blends

Anoint yourself with pure essential oil blends

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!

“Daisy”

Stay fresh as –

Lemon                  2 drops

Cedarwood Atlas  1 drop

——————————————————————————————————————

“Truth”

Simplicity is the key –

Lemon            2 drops

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

——————————————————————————————————————

Scent your space

Scent your space – the candle and flame will help transform negative energy too!

5. Scent Your Space

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

“Party”

Lemon          14 drops

Ylang Ylang    6 drops

Lime               5 drops

 

——————————————————————————————————————

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

copyright suzanne