10 Recipes with Bergamot Essential Oil – Citrus bergamia

Bergamot - pic via globalhealingcenter.com

Bergamot – pic via globalhealingcenter.com

I just wrote an article about the wonderful oil of bergamot, so click here if you’d like to check it out. I received a great response to my story on this bittersweet citrus oil and that’s because it’s a universally adored oil and has been used extensively in perfume for hundreds (if not more) years. It’s sparkly, light, refreshing and I always categorise the citrus oils as oils of happiness. It’s also fab for using in love blends as it negates mild feelings of anxiety.

Bergamot is used in aromatherapy to help with feelings of sadness and depression and to generally improve moods. It can be used as a tonic for oily skin, and is wonderful for all kinds of skincare. There is a warning with bergamot oil though – there is a constituent in its makeup called bergaptene, and this renders the oil slightly phototoxic. This means don’t smother yourself with it then sunbake for 8 hours – you could burn baby!

Les check out some recipes –

Pink clay - pic via qrbiz.com

Pink clay – pic via qrbiz.com

1. Face Mask

Usually add 2 or 3 drops of oil to some clay and add water, floral water or hydrosol.

“Teenage Dream Skin”

For oily and acne skin try a face mask twice weekly with PINK clay –

2 teaspoons pink clay

Bergamot   1 drop will be enough here

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

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!)

“Ugh”

When you need  bit of a boost –

Bergamot             15 drops

Rose Geranium      5 drops

Lemon Myrtle         3 drops

Myrrh                    2 drops

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

“I’m Lovely”

Yes you are ….

Bergamot            10 drops

Palmarosa             6 drops

Black Spruce        6 drops

Patchouli               3 drops

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

“I Wonder What Good Fortune is Coming my Way?”

Get in the vibration to accept good things –

Bergamot                          12 drops

Cedarwood Virginian           6 drops

May Chang                         3 drops

Nutmeg                               3 drops

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

“From Negative to Positive”

Change!

Bergamot          16 drops

Rosewood           9 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. 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”

“Soft Skin”

For beautiful feeling and smelling skin –

Beragmot      3 drops

Lavender       2 drops

Peru Balsam  2 drops

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

“Don’t Dilly-Dally”

Make a fresh start in the morning to get moving –

Bergamot      4 drops

Lemongrass  2 drops

Eucalyptus    1 drop

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

“You Will Be Mine”

Become absolutely irrisistable –

Bergamot        3 drops

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

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

Scent your space

Scent your space

4. Scent Your Space

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

“I Love My Little Space in the World”

Bergamot            15 drops

Cedarwood Atlas   6 drops

Geranium              4 drops

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

“Let’s Dance”

Yeah!

Bergamot    10 drops

Cinnamon     5 drops

Spearmint     5 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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

10 Recipes with Clary Sage Essential Oil – Salvia sclarea

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10 Recipes with Clary Sage Essential Oil – Salvia sclarea

10!

10!

I tend not to use Clary sage very often but maybe that’s just a phase I’m going through – I used it frequently when I was first introduced to essential oils. It belongs to the Lamiacae family and the genus Salvia. It is a strong sweet, heady oil with an herbaceous note. Clary sage is an expansive oil I consider it to be a very spiritual oil, as it relates well to the crown and third eye chakras. It seems to have the ability to open our conscious minds, and stimulate the subconscious to stir. I use Clary sage as a stimulus for the dream dimension – daydreams and night-time dreams, which can help shape our lives.

Looking back over the centuries it has been employed to help people over come depression and melancholy. Clary sage is an inspiring oil and has been to referred to as an  oil of euphoria. We can connect to the creativity of the universe too when we encounter Clary sage.

The essential oil is made from the flowering tops and the foliage

The essential oil is made from the flowering tops and the foliage

It is also powerful as an analgesic particularly in regards to period pain and I’ve used this oil with pregnant clients in preparation for labour and even in oil blends in a birthing suite. It also works well for symptoms of menopause.

Let’s check out some recipes –

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”

“I’m Ready for You Baby”

For the birthing suite or getting prepared for labour –

Clary Sage       3 drops

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

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

“Untangle”

When you have pain and can’t relax –

Clary Sage      2 drops

Peppermint     2 drops

Lavender        3 drops

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

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

Take a GENTLE whiff of this oil to open your consciousness or when you can’t see past the little nitty-gritty parts of your day.

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

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

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!)

“Universal Consciousness”

Expand beyond your self-imposed limitations –

Clary sage          6 drops

Mandarin           12 drops

Rose Geranium   6 drops

Cinnamon           3 drops

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

“I Just Love Everything Right Now”

To help convince yourself life isn’t so bad when you are having a challenging day –

Clary Sage          7 drops

Frankincense   10 drops

Orange                8 drops

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

“I Can Dream”

Dream big – it pays off –

Clary Sage                     5 drops

Cedarwood Virginian      8 drops

Petitgrain                      12 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!

“Oh Wow I Created That”

Feel supported by the universe –

Clary Sage                   1 drop

Sandalwood Australian 1 drop

Lime                             1 drop

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

“It’s Been A Long Day”

Anoint yourself after a long day at work to settle in and relax –

Clary Sage    1 drop

Lavender      1 drop

Marjoram      1 drop

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

“I’m Over These Hot Flushes”

Clary works well for menopause symptoms too –

Clary sage    1 drop

Fennel          1 drop

Palmarosa    1 drop

——————————————————————————————————————-

“Infinite”

You are……..

Clary Sage     1 drop

Myrrh             1 drop

Bergamot      1 drop

——————————————————————————————————————-

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 Peru Balsam Essential Oil- Myroxylon balsamum

10!

10!

It’s 10 recipes time! Today we will feature the absolutely beautiful oil called Peru Balsam or Tolu Balsam.

This beautiful oil, is like a combination of benzoin and vanilla.

Peru Balsam is sweet and soft and has warming stimulating properties reportedly to be a great treatment for skin conditions. I suppose over-use of the oil can lead to the opposite effect – skin irritations.  I have never seen any negative results from using this oil and actually love to use it as a perfume. It’s fantastic for vapourising to act as a soothing agent to stress, and add some sweetness and healing energy into the room. It is like a balm for the soul and when you take a deep whiff, it’s almost like you can smell a protective honeycomb, multi-dimensional energy field.

Peru balsam - pic via www.fragrantica.com

Peru balsam – pic via http://www.fragrantica.com

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”

“Sweet, Soft Skin”

A beautiful oil to nourish your skin –

Peru balsam       2 drops

Lavender            3 drops

Geranium           2 drops

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

“I Feel So Lovely”

Simply love your skin –

Peru Balsam   3 drops

Myrrh              1 drop

Rose 3%        9 drops   * see my article for more info on 3% blends in jojoba

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

Classic oil burner with a twist pic via top3.com.au

Classic oil burner with a twist pic via top3.com.au

3. Scent Your Space

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

“Loving Myself Especially Well Today”

Be kind to yourself –

Peru Balsam         12 drops

Lemon Myrtle          5 drops

Bergamot               8 drops

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

“Calm Down Kids!”

Explains itself really –

Peru Balsam      13 drops

Orange              10 drops

Vetiver                 2 drops

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

Anoint your third eye and breathe! pic via buelahman.wordpress.com

Anoint your third eye and breathe! pic via buelahman.wordpress.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!

“Angels Protect Me”

Know that you ARE protected –

Peru Balsam    2 drops

Clove               1 drop

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

“Get Me to The Church on Time”

A calming blend on a nervous kind of day –

Peru balsam  1 drop

Bergamot      2 drops

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

“Soothing Balm for the Soul”

Relax –

Peru Balsam   1 drop

Frankincense  2 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

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!)

“Spritz Away the Stress”

A quick mist can make all the difference

Peru Balsam  8 drops

Petitgrain       8 drops

Patchouli       4 drops

Lavender       5 drops

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

“Amethyst”

When you feel you need a layer of protection –

Peru Balsam            10 drops

Nutmeg                     3 drops

Orange                     10 drops

Sandalwood (Indian)   2 drops

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

“Yes I’m SIngle”

Be vulnerable yet powerful –

Peru Balsam      8 drops

Cinnamon          6 drops

Lemon             11 drops

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

copyright suzannerbanks 2013

Lunar Year of the Horse 2014, with Essential Oils to Match

Year of the HORSE 2014 - pic via photo.elsoar.com -

Year of the HORSE 2014 – pic via photo.elsoar.com

By the time you read this we have now moved from the Water Snake year (2013) into the Wood (or Green) Horse year of 2014. I think we are suddenly in the future – how did that happen?

Anyway I’m not an expert on Chinese astrology but I love it. Last year was a time for planning and this year is a time to GO FOR IT! Apparently it’s a year to make quick decisions and if it all goes to pieces we have the Wood Goat next year to settle down and “get cozy” according to Astrologer Susan Levitt.

I’ve read the Hong Kong newspaper with its “in detail” Feng Shui, along with lots of other bits and pieces on this year, including a great book by Neil Somerville, and here’s the deal – strap yourselves in its gonna be a bumpy ride!

Strap yourselves in ... pic via saferbychoice.com

Strap yourselves in … pic via saferbychoice.com

The horse will encourage us to be free and to seize the moment, day by day. The horse year will give us opportunities that must be grasped immediately. These situations and snap decisions may work out, or come crashing down on us. It seems like there will be continuing conflicts all over the world (ugh!) and big ups and downs in the financial institutions of various countries – some will rally, others will not.

Travel! pic via asmithblog.com

Travel! pic via asmithblog.com

Travel, romance? Yes for some, but the key is to know in your gut 100% that it’s right or forget about it! Don’t miss any opportunity this year because it’s all about embracing the wild ride. There is caution about spending too much money while you’re caught up on this roller coaster but if the goat year (2015) is going to save us, I say forge on!

Let’s get into some oils;

1. Open The Bottle and Take a Huge Whiff

It doesn’t get much easier than this, so to embody the spirit of the horse try –

Rosemary – awaken, remember, get clarity

Black pepper – go out into the world without fear

Cinnamon – warming, enjoy the sweetness of life

Melissa – release anxiety and tension

Myrrh – abundance, experience your true spirit

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!)

“Oh Come With Us and Gallop”

Have fun this year –

Lemongrass         10 drops

Rose Geranium      5 drops

Cedarwood Atlas    5 drops

Cinnamon               5 drops

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

“Get Ready…”

Warm up for the big race this year –

Basil             5 drops

Orange       10 drops

Rosewood  10 drops

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

“I’m Going to Patagonia”

Be adventurous –

Black Pepper                   5 drops

Sandalwood Australian     5 drops

Frankincense                    8 drops

Mandarin                          7 drops

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

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

copyright suzannerbanks 2013

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Are you Living Your Dharma? Countdown to a New Year!

The Buddhist Dharma Wheel - pic via rceezwhatzmore.blogspot.com

The Buddhist Dharma Wheel – pic via rceezwhatzmore.blogspot.com

What is dharma and why is it important?

“In Hinduism, dharma signifies behaviors that are considered to be in accord with the natural order.

In Buddhism dharma means “cosmic law and order”, but is also applied to the teachings of the Buddha. In Buddhist philosophy, dhamma/dharma is also the term for “phenomena”.

In Jainism dharma refers to the teachings of the Jinas  and the body of doctrine pertaining to the purification and moral transformation of human beings.

For Sikhs, the word Dharm means the “path of righteousness”. Wikipedia

I’ve been fortunate to hear many spiritual people speak on this subject and I interpret dharma as living your true purpose. Are you in a job you don’t like just to survive in this world? Are you in a job that you love where you don’t make much money at all? Do you work for yourself? It’s actually not really about your “job” but it’s definitely about your “work”. What it is that you have been brought here at this time on earth to do to help the evolution of the human race?

Meditating in NYC - pic via www.wellandgoodnyc.com

Meditating in NYC – pic via http://www.wellandgoodnyc.com

You don’t have to give up all your worldly goods and meditate all day, but if it’s part of your dharma, then to fulfill your purpose in life that’s what you’ll do.

For those who are unsure about this topic or who have never considered it, it’s about asking yourself the question – “What is my purpose in life?”. It may take you years to work it out whereas others around may know exactly from a young age. Remember it’s not about your job, it’s about how you are going to help the world evolve.

Change is a good thing pic via wix.com

Change is a good thing pic via wix.com

Come on people there’s no time to dilly-dally it’s almost 2014! It sounds so futuristic but the future is now! We need to get more pro-active on this subject and each person has a duty of care to the rest of us to live and breathe their true purpose in life.

Essential oils will help you in your quest because they have a magical way of moving through the ether, your physical and energetic bodies and your mind, to help you access the fundamental truth of the universe. It is in this field of quantum potential that we can find the answers to that which we are seeking. What are you seeking and how can you help others achieve their dharma too?

Take a huge whiff to change your focus in seconds

Take a huge whiff to change your focus in seconds

Take a huge whiff of essential oil from time to time to open the emotional energetic gate in your mind, to open your third eye and crown chakras, to expand consciousness. See my article Change Your Focus in 3 Seconds for more about sniffing essential oils.

aaahhhhh essential oils

aaahhhhh essential oils

What oils? Here’s a few to get things rolling –

Frankincense – the scent of truth, induces calm and slows the breath

Sandalwood   – both Indian and Australian Sandalwoods –  grounding, spiritual, see the oneness of the universe

Black Pepper – stimulating, go out into the world and seize your destiny

Sage               – wisdom, speak the truth

Orange           – innocence, happiness

Cinnamon       – loving what you do, ding what you love

Petitgrain        – potentiality

Palmarosa      – flexibility

If you are not sure how to start your quest, then try motivating others and you’ll be amazed at what a great effect this can have on your soul.

Go for it! Thank you.

copyright suzannerbanks 2013

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

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

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.

copyright suzannerbanks 2013

Wheel of Fortune – A Tarot Card Reading with Essential Oils

Wheel of Fortune - # 10 from the Rider-Waite deck

Wheel of Fortune – # 10 from the Rider-Waite deck

Oh yeah this is a good one. If this card comes up in a reading it will make you feel positive and hopeful. As with all the tarot cards the symbols are important and this card has heaps! It has the four fixed signs of the zodiac and according to Biddy Tarot, they all have wings “signifying stability amidst movement and change”. There is also a sphinx (Horus, God of Resurrection), Anubis (giver of life) and a snake (transformation) as well as the letters spelling “Tora” or “Taro”. They can also be read as “orat” (to speak), “rota” (wheel) and “ator” (Egyptian Goddess of the Dead). Phew!

There are also 4 Hebrew letters which can be interpreted as God, and the symbols for mercury, sulphur, salt and water. These are symbols indicating the power of alchemy and the ability to create new things and transform elements into new compounds.

So the Wheel of Fortune is about movement, change and transformation. It also indicates success and good fortune which is what we all want to hear. When this card comes up in a reading it may be mirroring your current circumstances or it may be asking you to make determined physical changes in your life.

Change is a good thing pic via wix.com

Change is a good thing! pic via wix.com

Taking control of the wheels of your life may be just what you need. Steer your life into uncharted territory and allow the energy of this movement to open new doors for you. The seasons and cycles of life wait for no man so why fight against it? Maybe you have been disconnected from the life cycles of earth – get out into nature and fully experience these changes with gusto. Align yourself with the magnetic energy of the universe and it may then be easier to accept more success and abundance into your life.

Are you feeling stuck? pic via pickthebrain.com

Are you feeling stuck? pic via pickthebrain.com

Get the wheels of life moving if you are feeling stuck. travel would be a great antidote, as would be meditating on this great tarot card.

This card could also represent the way “fate” plays with us, and may be asking you to open your awareness to the world to see how the web of life is “entangled” with everyone in the universe.

Awaken your senses to the possibilities of new things in your life by using some essential oils to invoke the Wheel of Fortune.

cinnamon

cinnamon

1. Open The Bottle and Take a Huge Whiff

Cedarwood Atlas – abundance

Cardamom – flow of energy in and around your body

Palmarosa – flexibility and happiness

Cinnamon – love what you do for work and abundance will flow

I love this oil burner from pagethirtythree.com

Scent your space with this oil burner from pagethirtythree.com

2. Scent Your Space

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

“River”

Get your energy moving and flowing –

Ginger          5 drops

Juniper         5 drops

Rosemary    5 drops

Lime            10 drops

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

“Wheel of Fortune”

Take risks and see what opens up for you –

Pine                      8 drops

Frankincencse      8 drops

Black Pepper        4 drops

Orange                 5 drops

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

“Lady Luck”

Be happy, positive and grateful and you will be in the flow of life –

Rose Geranium      8 drops

Mandarin                8 drops

Patchouli                4 drops

May Chang            5 drops

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

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

copyright suzannerbanks 2013

Death – A Tarot Card Reading with Essential Oils

Death - XIII in from the Rider-Waite deck

Death – XIII in from the Rider-Waite deck

DEATH! Don’t freak out. This card is a little gruesome but in the end the messages are positive. The design and imagery are confronting but it doesn’t mean you are going to die (right now), however we will all die from our mortal lives at some time.

What do you think it means? It’s about a cycle, a situation or an emotional state ending. It’s a BIG ending, a purge, and it is not without difficulty. Notice that Death is riding a white horse which shows there is positivity and movement – movement toward something new. The sun is also rising showing there is light at the end of this death. The images on this card are similar to The Sun card too, which is a much happier and brighter card – perhaps it could even be construed as the opposite to death.

what's next?

what’s next?

So if you are wondering “what’s next?”, perhaps you need to look at patterns and old ways that need to be removed from your life. By detoxing from the old, you will have space to create the new. Many tarot cards carry similar messages but of course it also depends what other cards come up in the reading too. The Death card asks you to make BIG changes, clear the slate and start again.

clear road ahead pic via alatlatequator.wordpress.com

clear road ahead pic via alatlatequator.wordpress.com

You may need to initiate this change yourself because you are feeling stagnant, or this may be thrust upon you like The Tower card. What essential oils could help you transition?

1. Open The Bottle and Take a Huge Whiff

Juniper – detox, release the unwanted

Rosemary – stimulate your mind to consciously change

Cinnamon – add some sweetness and find what you love in life – follow your dharma

Lavender – garner strength and energy to help you through this change

nourish your skin with oil blends

nourish your skin and create change 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.

***** 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”

This is a great way to nurture yourself and cover your self with the protective energy of essential oils.

“Change Change Change”

When you need to almost force yourself to make changes –

Cardamom        2 drops

Rosemary         2 drops

Lemon              4 drops

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The sun is always shining somewhere pic via wallpaperswide.com

The sun is always shining somewhere pic via wallpaperswide.com

 

“Even Though It’s Cloudy, I know the Sun is There”

Try and see the positive side of this big shock –

Peru Balsam       3 drops

Mandarin             3 drops

Rose Geranium   2 drops

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“Remain Calm”

Stay calm and soothe out of control emotions while going through the Death energy –

Marjoram       2 drops

Rose 3%       12 drops     * see my article for more info on 3% blends in jojoba

Lime              2 drops

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

copyright suzannerbanks 2013

 

Can Essential Oils be used Undiluted on Your Skin?

A drop of oil can be essential

A drop of oil can be essential

This question is one of the most commonly asked questions in regards to essential oils and essential oil safety.

I studied in Australia and although I don’t know exactly what other education institutions teach, I’m positive there is a general feeling about this subject.

Short Answer: NO

Do not use essential oils directly on your skin as a general rule.

Why?:

Essential oils are concentrated volatile substances extracted from plants. A couple of important actions in some essential oils are classed as:

Photosensitisation:

If you apply one of these oils  to your skin and go outside, the oil can cause a skin reaction when the suns hits you. It can be really bad, or mild, or you may not get a reaction at all. Oils to watch out for are bergamot and all the citrus oils.

Sensitising:

Many oils can be classed as sensitising, meaning if you use to much, or in a strong dilution it may cause a skin reaction. Oils to watch out for are black pepper, cinnamon, clove, wintergreen, maybe oregano and thyme, and other oils which you wouldn’t be able to buy retail.

Irritation:

According to Essential Therapeutics “irritation” may occur with many different oils in very strong dilutions. However, most essential oils contain different molecules that could potentially cause irritations on the skin, but are not classified as toxic. It really depends on each person and how sensitive you are generally.

The most important thing is not to drink essential oils – this will cause poisoning and potentially harmful long term effects.

Use your common sense and dilute essential oils in the ratios listed in my articles “Ratios for Blending Essential Oils – A Reminder of the Basics” and  “Aromatherapy – It’s Easy as 1 2 3”.

skin reaction to Peru Balsam pic via www.cdc.gov

skin reaction to Peru Balsam pic via http://www.cdc.gov

If you are a very sensitive person then always patch test before using essential oils all over your skin – even if it is in the correct dilution.

I’m not going to say I don’t use essential oils directly on my skin, but I’m not going to say I do. I have 20 years of experience using essential oils with clients and various scenting projects so I feel confident about what I can do on my skin.

Anoint yourself with pure essential oils

Anoint yourself with pure essential oils diluted with a carrier oil

What about anointing with essential oils?

Once again the general rule is not to use essential oils directly on your skin. I recommend diluting with a carrier oil and then anointing.

What about perfume straight from the bottle?

Same as above. if you want a stronger effect, try putting a couple of drops of oil on a makeup pad in your bra or even your handbag.

PATCH TEST FIRST – especially if you are a person who is very sensitive! Just because essential oils are natural does not mean they are always safe.

Don’t use essential oils in strong dilutions, or neat on kids either. if a reaction does occur the only way to get the oils off the skin is with a carrier oil like olive or almond. Smooth it all over the area, wipe off and seek medical advice if necessary. See my article ‘“Aunty, something is biting my legs” – 10 things NOT to do when using Essential Oils” for more info on the general rules of using essential oils.

You are the expert on you

You are the expert on you

You are the expert on you, so use common sense, the information that is available to you and patch test first.

Enjoy the beautiful scents of nature and allow miracles through scent!

Judgement – A Tarot Card Reading with Essential Oils

Judgement - XX in the Rider-Waite deck

Judgement – XX in the Rider-Waite deck

Number 20 in the major arcana is the Judgement card. There’s quite a few dead people and the Angel Gabriel heralding a message from God. I do like this card, and as with many of the tarot cards, at first glance it looks a bit creepy but has a positive message. This card is about truth and dharma, how you live your life. When the “judgement day” comes, and you are called to the pearly gates of heaven, can you say you have lived your life with purpose and in your own truth? Have you inspired others to reach their personal heights? Have you remained true to the laws of the universe? Have you been kind to others?

? sneakily borrowed from biodagar.com

? pic via biodagar.com

When this card comes to you in a reading it may be suggesting you need to re-focus your energy, get yourself back on track. It could be a call to move forward in your life and allow your real self to emerge. Shed your skin and don’t be afraid to embrace your higher purpose, your dharma, your spirituality.

This could be a time to try to see things from a new perspective, which could in turn lead to you making positive changes in your life.

angel gabriel blowing his horn - gabe aguilar pic via finaartamerica.com

angel gabriel blowing his horn – gabe aguilar pic via fineartamerica.com

Call on the Archangel Gabriel (the healer) to help you find your true purpose in life and use some essential oils with your very best intention.

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 50 ml 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”

“Release”

Allow yourself to shed the old –

Juniper        3 drops

Rosewood   3 drops

Lavender     2 drops

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“What is My Purpose in Life?”

Find your dharma –

Petitgrain                     3 drops

Cedarwood Virginian    2 drops

Cinnamon                    2 drops

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“Healing”

Gabriel will help you emerge as a healed soul –

Rose 3%         12 drops  *see my article for more info on 3% blends in jojoba

Nutmeg           2 drops

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Anoint yourself with pure essential oils

Anoint yourself with pure essential oils

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!

“Back on Track”

Re-focus to what really matters to you –

Basil              1 drop

Orange          2 drops

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“Movin’ On”

Keep going!

Rosemary     1 drop

May Chang   2 drops

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“Transformation!”

Emerge as a new person –

Spikenard     1 drop

Lime              2 drops

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

copyright suzannerbanks 2013