2016 Year of the Monkey – An Aromatic Insight

Hello my friends, I hope you’re all well and excited about the Year of The Fire Monkey. Read on to find what’s in store for you this year, and how essential oils can support your quest.

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

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

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

Chinese horoscopes - pic via www.ibtimes.co.uk

Chinese horoscopes – pic via http://www.ibtimes.co.uk

If you’re not sure which animal you are, here are a few years to help you out:

  • Rat: 2008, 1996, 1984, 1972, 1960
  • Ox: 2009, 1997, 1985, 1973, 1961
  • Tiger: 2010, 1998, 1986, 1974, 1962
  • Rabbit: 2011, 1999, 1987, 1975, 1963
  • Dragon: 2012, 2000, 1988, 1976, 1964
  • Snake: 2013, 2001, 1989, 1977, 1965
  • Horse: 2014, 2002, 1990, 1978, 1966
  • Goat: 2015, 2003, 1991, 1979, 1967
  • Monkey: 2016, 2004, 1992, 1980, 1968
  • Rooster: 2017, 2005, 1993, 1981, 1969
  • Dog: 2018, 2006, 1994, 1982, 1970
  • Pig: 2019, 2007, 1995, 1983, 1971

from China Highlights which has some fun info on the Chinese Zodiac.

Monkey - pic via freedesignfile.com

Monkey – pic via freedesignfile.com

The Year of the Monkey in General

We have a year of fun social times ahead of us, and it is relying on solid base of friends and family that will get us through difficult periods. The monkey is a social creature without inhibitions so get ready for the year to go quickly with lots of laughs.

Flexibility is the key as work and career opportunities may pop up suddenly and if you’re to prosper, act quickly, seize the moment. This is a year of innovation and fortune favours the bold.

It is a time to move forward with your plans and ideas, when at other times it may have seemed risky. Go ahead by trusting yourself to succeed.

My oil for the Year of the Monkey is LEMONGRASS. Lemongrass is great for energy, can help you be more flexible and is an oil of happiness. It is also an oil loved by many people, which could be a key ingredient to your own success – get everyone on your side.

 

Hanging lanterns

Hanging lanterns

 

The Monkey Year for Your Sign

Rat

Keywords: success; resourcefulness: parties

Oil:            palmarosa


Ox

Keywords: sharing; study; try new things

Oil:            rosemary


Tiger

Keywords: mindfulness; commitment; acceptance

Oil:            frankincense


Rabbit

Keywords: seek advice; romance: use your judgement

Oil:            fennel


Dragon

Keywords: new ideas; talents emerge; cooperation

Oil:            bergamot


Snake

Keywords: take care; alertness; new role

Oil:            peru balsam


Horse

Keywords: priorities; action; home

Oil:           black pepper


Goat

Keywords: communication; group activities; new horizons

Oil:            ginger


Monkey

Keywords: decisions; openness; potentiality

Oil:            petitgrain


Rooster

Keywords: organization; change; family life

Oil:            basil


Dog

Keywords: be enterprising; travel; friends

Oil:            cedarwood Atlas


Pig

Keywords: new projects; variety; be with others

Oil:            sandalwood


Monkey

Cheeky monkey

********  What’s your sign and your oil? How is 2016 shaping up for you?  ***********

 

Remember to treat yourself first, then everyone will benefit.

Check out my YouTube channel too, thanks.

copyright 2016

 

Essential Oils and Their Keywords – Part 1

Essential oils tend to be grouped together as to their physical healing properties – but what about the way they treat our spirit and minds too? For example marjoram, lavender and rosemary are great for muscles; rose, geranium and patchouli are wonderful for skin health; fennel and juniper can help relieve joint swelling. Of course essential oils often have more than one quality and the art of aromatherapy allows synergistic combinations to be formulated to expand their individual powers. Read on to discover how I feel about some of my favourite oils.

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

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've just planted some basil and it seems to be dong quite well

I’ve just planted some basil and it seems to be dong quite well

Basil

clarity; open your mind

Bergamot

calm and connected; from “what is to “what if?”

Black pepper

go forward and fulfil your destiny

Cardamom

energetic flow

Cedarwood Atlas

abundance in everything

Cedarwood Virginian

dissolve barriers

I've got these gorgeous chamomile flowers in a teapot nest to my bed - sweet dreams!

I’ve got these gorgeous chamomile flowers in a teapot nest to my bed – sweet dreams!

Chamomile German

cool down

Chamomile Roman

less tension more inspiration

Cinnamon

sweetness in work; be sweet with yourself

Clary Sage

dream

Clove

release pain

Cypress

allow miracles; away from ego into spirit

Eucalyptus in the Australian country

Eucalyptus in the Australian country

Eucalyptus

invigorate; clearing, enlightening

Everlasting

immortal beauty

Fennel

licorice love

Frankincense

meditation, truth, preservation

Geranium

cheeriness; feel good

Revelation! Reveal Your Destiny with Essential Oils

Revelation! Reveal Your Destiny with Essential Oils

All the oils and their keywords are quotes from my book. You will find the links to buy the book at the top of the post.

Remember to treat yourself first, then everyone will benefit.

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

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

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

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

copryright SR Banks 2015

10 Recipes with Cedarwood Atlas – Cedrus atlantica

The cedarwoods are very useful oils in Aromatherapy. As a base to anchor an oil blend or perfume, they also speak to our spiritual nature by opening us to higher frequencies, and the dynamic existence of the universe. This cedarwood hails from the Atlas mountains in Morocco and is the nearest in location to the cedars of Lebanon mentioned in spiritual texts.

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

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

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

Cedrus atlantica needles

Cedrus atlantica needles

In aromatherapy this cedarwood oil is used:

  • help reduce the symptoms of skin irritations and dermatitis
  • help stimulate the scalp where hair loss is an issue
  • to act as a mild aphrodisiac and is often used in products for men for this reason and of course due to its scent

I use this oil as an oil of abundance – to see abundance in all things. It is wonderful for strengthening resolve and fear. Let’s check out some recipes:

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 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’ve Got the Power”

Cedar Atlas          3 drops

Mandarin              3 drops

Palmarosa            2 drops


“A Blend For My Man”

Get your guy into the habit of using body oil blends –

Cedar Atlas        3 drops

Bergamot           4 drops

Vetiver                1 drop


“I am One with the Planets”

Cedar Atlas       2 drops

Lavender           3 drops

Petitgrain           3 drops


“Gentle Strength”

Cedar Atlas       2 drops

Orange             4 drops

Basil                  1 drop


 

Lovely hair with cedarwood

Lovely hair with cedarwood

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.

Cedar Atlas                2 drops

Roman chamomile     2 drops

Indian rosewood        3 drops


Hot steamy shower with essential oils

Hot steamy shower with essential oils

3. 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.

Cedarwood will help you counteract nerves on a big day, help you move from fear to abundance and allow your upper chakras to open.


A cute little Chinese tea cup to make your perfumes in! pic via - icollector.com

A cute little Chinese tea cup to make your perfumes in! pic via – icollector.com

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!

“To Attract HIM”

Cedar Atlas     1 drop

Ylang Ylang     1 drop

Lime                1 drop


“To Attract HER”

Cedar Atlas     1 drop

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


 

“Aligned”

Cedar Atlas     1 drop

Ginger             1 drop

Geranium        1 drop


“Wonder”

Cedar Atlas     1 drop

Patchouli         1 drop

Rose 3%         2 drops

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


 

 

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

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

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

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

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

copryright SR Banks 2015

The 12 Days of Christmas – Essential Oil Recipes for Your Home Part 1

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

Amazon USA      Booktopia AU      Amazon UK

and many other stores worldwide as a Kindle and Paperback


The 12 Days of Christmas – Essential Oil Recipes for Your Home Part 1 – Unashamedly a Re-Blog From Last Year!

The 12 Days of Christmas folk song - pic via wikipedia.org

The 12 Days of Christmas folk song – pic via wikipedia.org

Thought to be of French and English origin this little ditty is called a cumulative song where we build a verse on top of another verse. Its origins lay in France but it was popularised in England in the 1700’s. There is all sorts of information attached to where the lyrics came from and they are all very different but what I know is that even though I might not remember all the 12 gifts my true love gave to me, I sure do know “a partridge in a pear tree”. There also seems to be a lot game birds in this song too but I’m a vegetarian …..

I’ve taken each verse and created an oil blend for you to scent your home. To scent you own space I recommend 25 drops of essential oil, and you can use a traditional oil burner with a candle, an electric vapouriser, or for a quick and easy result put 25 drops of oil into a bowl and pour boiling water over it and leave it to stand – instant aromatherapy!

Partridge in a Pear Tree - pic via www.pspassociation.org.uk

Partridge in a Pear Tree – pic via http://www.pspassociation.org.uk

1. On the first day of Christmas I got a partridge in a pear tree (lucky me).

“A Partridge in a Pear Tree”

Inspiration – contentment, attuning to nature, simplicity

Orange                10 drops

Black Spruce         8 drops

Cedarwood Atlas   4 drops

Patchouli                3 drops

2 Turtle Doves -pic via blupenny.com

2 Turtle Doves -pic via blupenny.com

2. On the second day of Christmas I received 2 turtle doves.

” 2 Turtle Doves”

Inspiration – love, partnership, courtship, romance

Petitgrain           9 drops

Ylang Ylang        8 drops

Rose Geranium  4 drops

Fennel               4 drops

3 french hens - pic via www.booksillustrated.com

3 french hens – pic via http://www.booksillustrated.com

3. On the third day of Christmas I was fortunate to have three french hens come into my life.

” 3 French Hens”

Inspiration – creativity, working together, friendship, loyalty

Lemongrass    7 drops

Lime                8 drops

Cinnamon       6 drops

Sage               4 drops

4 Colly Birds - pic via nostalgicallyyours.blogspot.com -

4 Colly Birds – pic via nostalgicallyyours.blogspot.com –

4. Then unexpectedly on day four, four colly birds swooped me! Those naughty French thrushes!

“4 Colly Birds”

Inspiration – lots of choice, abundance, laughing with friends

Palmarosa                         8 drops

Sandalwood   (Australian)  6 drops

Mandarin                          11 drops

5 gold rings - pic via www.beverlybremer.com

5 gold rings – pic via http://www.beverlybremer.com

5. Here’s the good present – five gold rings (or is it golden)?

“5 Gold Rings”

Inspiration – infinity, universal love, wishes coming true, prosperity

May Chang      6 drops

Cardamom      6 drops

Cypress          13 drops

6 Geese laying - pic via ronwalls.blogspot.com -

6 Geese laying – pic via ronwalls.blogspot.com –

6. I’m running out of room in my backyard for the six geese who are laying eggs!

“6 Geese a-Laying”

Inspiration – happiness, maternal love, caring for others, willingness to share

Peru Balsam   10 drops

Spearmint        8 drops

Lavender         7 drops

Get your essential oils working for you this festive season, they will bring charm and kindness into your life. They will allow you to open to the infinite wisdom of the universe and help others to do the same.

Stay tuned for Part 2 next week.

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

copryright SR Banks 2014

Chakras, Colours and the Oils to Support Them

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

Amazon USA      Booktopia AU      Amazon UK


Chakras, Colours and the Oils to Support Them

This post is dedicated to my friend DJ Wayne G

Chakras, their colours and Sanskrit names - pic via www.peacefulmind.com

Chakras, their colours and Sanskrit names – pic via http://www.peacefulmind.com

My friend has been painting his new apartment lots of different colours.  When I asked him if it was too much I realised in that same moment he would reallybenefit from colour therapy. A friend had already commented on his red kitchen cupboards, and how it “would be good for his chakras”, so this post is for Wayne, with some additional essential oils to match.

red

1. Base or Root Chakra/ Muladhara/ Red

Keywords: basic needs met, safety, survival, connect with Mother Earth

Oils:          lavender, patchouli, vetiver

orange 3

2.  Sacral Chakra/Svadisthana/Orange

Keywords: creation of something tangible, sexuality,connecting with another

Oils:           sandalwood, ylang ylang, jasmine

yellow

3. Solar Plexus Chakra/Manipura/Yellow

Keywords: wanting good things for ourselves, confidence in the world

Oils:           black pepper, bergamot, lemongrass, fennel

green

4. Heart Chakra/Anahata/Green

Keywords: love, compassion, empathy

Oils:           rosewood, rose, petitgrain

blue

5. Throat Chakra/Vishudda/Blue

Keywords: truth, expression, creativity

Oils:           sage, ginger, lime, palmarosa

indigo blue

6. Third Eye Chakra/Ajna/Indigo

Keywords: intuition, psychic abilities

Oils:          clary sage, cedarwood, rosemary, black spruce

violet

7. Crown Chakra/Sahasrara/Violet

Keywords: knowledge of the divine, connect to universal intelligence

Oils: basil, frankincense, cypress

 

I have kept the essential oil associations minimal so as not to over-complicate things; but remember when you use your intention with any essential oils and combinations, they can be used for anything you desire.

By infusing your own energy into your oils and your formulations, you are creating your health, and your future so please be mindful when you’re in your scented zone!

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 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

 

 

 

Cure Mondayitis with Essential Oil Shower Steams

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

Amazon USA      Amazon AU      Amazon UK


 

Cure Mondayitis with Essential Oil Shower Steams

 

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

Mondays keep rolling around.

They finally turn into Fridays. There’s the week gone.

Then suddenly it’s August 2014 and we are in the future!

We can choose to go against the flow of life, but that won’t get us anywhere or anyplace except stressed, and stress is one of the leading contributors to declines in mental and physical health.

I’m writing about Mondays as a return to work for most people on the treadmill of this game of life. But not me! I’ve never been a  9 to 5’er, or a Monday to Friday worker so I have a different view. Mondays represent chillin out to me and even if I work, it never feels like I’m working because do what I love. Sometimes Monday may mean writing a few blog articles and that’s about it. It does make Friday less of a celebration but I can live with that.

So for those having to get up at stupid o’clock on a Monday morning to start a long work week, this is for you.

Working 9 to 5 what a way to make a livin'

Working 9 to 5 what a way to make a livin’

There are some essential oils that can wake you up, others that can relieve stress and some that just make you feel a bit happier. The easiest way to treat yourself with essential oils on a Monday morning is with a few drops of essential oil in the bottom of the shower, Cover the drain with a face cloth or even your foot. Allow the oils to vapourise with the steam, breathe deeply, enjoy the scented stimulation of your senses.

Check out these oils and see what magic they can deliver –

Eucalyptus – wake up, cleanse the cobwebs in your mind, embrace the new day with gusto

Lemon – gently refresh and reload your energy onto the new page of a new week

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

Peppermint – enliven your mind, remove headaches and head tension

Rosemary – zap your memory into gear, stimulate your brain

Flowering rosemary in my client's garden

Flowering rosemary in my client’s garden

Basil – open the upper chakras to start channeling new universal patterns and downloads

Orange – inject a little bit of happiness into your Monday morning

Oranges and orange oil can make you happy!

Oranges and orange oil can make you happy!

Petitgrain – a zingy green start to the day allowing all possibilities to unfold

Lemongrass – energy now! revitalize

Lemongrass

Lemongrass

Ginger – warm your emotions, get the circulation going

Ylang Ylang – release anger and frustration

The spidery, seductive Ylang Ylang flower

The spidery, seductive Ylang Ylang flower

Bergamot – calm your nerves

Cedarwood Atlas – remove ego, come from a spiritual perspective

Sandalwood Indian – be Zen, peace and calm

Raw sandalwood and the powder

Raw sandalwood and the powder

 

And if all that’s too hard, eat an orange or mandarin and throw the zest into the bottom of the shower. Squish it up with your feet. Breathe. Continue with your day.

And during the day if you do have some citrus fruit, save the peel (and/or eat some of it too), and let the zest sit on your desk for some instant aromatherapy in the afternoon.

Happy Monday peeps!

Remember to treat yourself first, then everyone will benefit.

copyright suzannerbanks 2013

10 Recipes with Frankincense Essential Oil- Boswellia carterii

Frankincense resin in it's organic form is then distilled into an essential oil

Frankincense resin in its organic form is then distilled into an essential oil

Ah frankincense it’s a good oil! It’s an oil that helps you breathe deeply, relax and connect with your spirit. It’s an oil that can help skin looking and feeling younger. It’s an oil that’s been around for thousands of years. It’s an oil of truth.

Frankincense has a fine scent and I have written more about it previously with my article ‘Frankincense is the Scent of Truth’. It is from the family Burseraceae and the genus Boswellia.

Many years ago a friend of mine (he’s not around any longer, hi Peter!) was having a really bad asthma attack and was getting very anxious. He called me and I went to him immediately with a vapouriser and some Frankincense oil. I sat him down next to the stream of vapour and within 5 minutes he was better and after 20 minutes he could breathe normally. He also felt much more relaxed and I left the set up with him for a few weeks so he could access the treatment whenever he needed it.

Frankincense has many applications so let’s get into some recipes –

A clay face mask is the best and most natural clarifyng mask. pic vis chiclooking.com

A clay face mask is the best and most natural clarifying mask. pic via chiclooking.com

1. Face Mask

Usually add 1 or 2 drops of oil to some 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.

I would use 2 drops of frankincense in pink clay to rejuvenate your skin, help tone oilier skin and to treat acne.

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

Take a huge whiff to change your focus in seconds

Take a huge whiff to change your focus in seconds

2. Open The Bottle and Take a Huge Whiff

Do this with frankincense to help you relax and gather your energy. It will give you a chance to stop and catch you breath too.

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

 

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!

“Peace and Quiet”

Frankincense   2 drops

Lavender          1 drop

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

“I’m Ready for the Day”

Take a deep breath and go!

Frankincense   1 drop

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

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

“Sweet”

Life IS sweet –

Frankincense   2 drops

Peru balsam    1 drop

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

“Now is the Best Time”

Do it now!

Frankincense      1 drop

Lemongrass       1 drop

Rose Geranium   1 drop

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

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

4. Scent Your Space

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

“Sunday Night Settle Down”

You’ve got school in the morning!

Frankincense    10 drops

Orange               9 drops

Marjoram            6 drops

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

“Fresh Vibe”

A great blend for when you’ve finished cleaning the house –

Frankincense       10 drops

Lime                      6 drops

Cedarwood Atlas   5 drops

May Chang            4 drops

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

Rub oil into your body - it's good!

Rub oil into your body – it’s good!

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”

“Renew”

A blend to feel hydrated with a new outlook –

Frankincense  3 drops

Palmarosa    3 drops

Lavender        2 drops

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

“It’s All About Me Tonight”

Shower off the day and oil yourself –

Frankincense    2 drops

Ylang Ylang      2 drops

Mandarin          3 drops

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

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

copyright suzanne

 

10 Recipes with Rose Geranium – Pelargonium graveolens

Rose geranium - pic via commons.wikimedia.org

Rose geranium – pic via commons.wikimedia.org

So what is the difference between Rose geranium and Geranium?

Good question.

Both Rose geranium and geranium come from the same species. They are from the family Geraniaceae, the genus Pelargonium and then the species Pelargonium graveolens. It seems that the common name Pelargonium roseum is actually just another term for graveolens too.

But they do smell different! Rose geranium is a lot sweeter with a distinct rosey scent and geranium just smells like geranium. There are many different cultivars and it depends where the plants are grown as to what scent they have. The particular sweet rose scented flowers will be sold as Rose geranium and others as just geranium.

Just to add something else into the mix, hundreds of years ago the Island of Reunion was famous for their geranium which was called Bourbon geranium. It is thought that this could have been Pelargonium capitatum rather than, or as well as P. graveolens. Now the neighbouring island of Madagascar produces geranium which is called Bourbon, but it is  listed from my suppliers as coming from P. graveolens.

According to Marcia Elston http://www.wingedseed.com/blog/

“North Africa is a principal producer and includes the countries Morocco, Tunisia, Algeria, Egypt. Most of the plant stock for North African development came from Grasse from P. graveloens or its hybrids; the French oil produced around Grass having the most rosaceous odor of all.”

 

Ok let’s get into some recipes!

Sexy black diffuser from puzhen.com

Sexy black diffuser from puzhen.com

1. Scent Your Space

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

“Party!”

Get the party started –

Rose geranium        8 drops

Orange                    8 drops

Cedarwood Atlas     5 drops

Patchouli                 4 drops

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

“Fresh Saturday House Cleaning Vibe”

Don’t avoid the housework any longer –

Rose geranium        7 drops

Lemongrass            7 drops

Juniper                    7 drops

Tea tree                   4 drops

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

“Cheer Up!”

Add some happiness –

Rose geranium                 5 drops

Mandarin                        10 drops

Ylang Ylang                      5 drops

Sandalwood Australian    5 drops

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

 

Rub oil into your body - it's good!

Rub oil into your body – it’s good!

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.

***** 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”

“Happy Days”

Get smiling in the morning –

Rose Geranium       3 drops

Lavender                 3 drops

Black spruce           2 drops

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

“Cute-Sexy”

Get your cute on –

Rose geranium       3 drops

Peru balsam           3 drops

Vanilla CO2             1 drop   * see my article for more info on CO2 extracts What are CO2 Extracts in the World of Aromatherapy?

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

“I Like Life”

Rose geranium   2 drops

Palmarosa          2 drops

Rosemary           2 drops

Lemon                2 drops

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

get any cute little dish to mix your oils in

get any cute little dish to mix your oils 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!

“Yee ha Lets Go!”

Rose geranium   1 drop

Black pepper      1 drop

Basil                   1 drop

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

“Lollipops and Laughs”

Acknowledge your inner child –

Rose geranium   1 drop

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

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

“Sweet AND Determined”

You can do it –

Rose geranium     1 drop

Nutmeg                1 drop

Lime                     1 drop

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

“First Class”

You are the Queen –

Rose Geranium    1 drop

Rose 3%              3 drops

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

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