10 Essential Oil Recipes to Help Meditation

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

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10 Essential Oil Recipes to Help Meditation

 

Meditation creates positive ripples in your environment

Meditation creates positive ripples in your environment

Many people are still are still unsure of meditation, why we do it and how accessible it is. It is a term for a wide variety of styles and beliefs but the one common thread is that we meditate to connect with the universe within us, and all around us. This includes people in your life, when you have problems, when you don’t have problems, when you want to create something and simply just as a way of attuning to higher consciousness.

One of the biggest myths of meditation is that you can’t do it because your mind is too active. That’s WHY you do it.

Another myth is that it takes too much time. Have you heard the story of the student who says to the master he hasn’t got enough time to meditate for half an hour every day. The master considers the story and then tells him to meditate for an hour everyday. We MAKE time for meditation it’s as simple as that.

If you have access to the internet you can find out many ways of meditating. It could be an “open focus” style meditation where you close your eyes and open your mind to become no body, no thing at no time, in no place. You may learn a mantra meditation by going to a meditation group or you may sit with relaxing music and breathe deeply.

be happy

Be happier with meditation

The key to meditation is actually doing it. Sometimes your mind will be quite and sometimes it may not. Meditate anyway. Even if it’s for 5 minutes, just do it.

Positive results from meditation include –

* reduced stress leading to far-reaching health benefits

* a more relaxed body

* deeper, slower breathing in waking states

* reduced blood pressure

* healing of chronic disease

* objectivity

* better sleep

* better relationships

* better communication

and the list goes on. Here are some recipes to help induce slower breathing and meditation –

Take a huge whiff to change your focus in seconds

Take a huge whiff to change your focus in seconds

1. Open The Bottle and Take a Huge Whiff

Frankincense – deeper slower breathing

Lavender – general relaxation

Marjoram – stress relief and relaxation

Orange – sweetness and innocence

Sandalwood – connection to spirit

Patchouli – feel grounded

 

Puzhen diffuser from the 5 senses series - puzhen.com

Puzhen diffuser from the 5 senses series – puzhen.com

Scent Your Space

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

“World Peace”

World peace starts in your heart –

Mandarin     10 drops

Cypress        8 drops

Patchouli      7 drops

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

“Clarity’

May Chang     8 drops

Lavender         7 drops

Pine                5 drops

Basil                5 drops

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

“Double Torus”

Get the energy going

Frankincense     10 drops

Geranium             5 drops

Cardamom          5 drops

Rosewood           5 drops

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

“Fairy Garden”

Open to the magic –

Petitgrain                         8 drops

Lime                                7 drops

Cedarwood Himalayan    7 drops

Sage                               3 drops

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

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

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

 

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!

“The Time is Now”

Meditate for 5 minutes NOW –

Geranium                   1 drop

Indian Sandalwood    1 drop

Lemon                       1 drop

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

“Mantra”

Just say ‘om’ as a simple mantra –

Cedarwood Virginian   1 drop

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

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

“Heart Chakra”

Open the flow –

Rose 3%    on its own straight from the bottle * see my article for more info on 3% blends in jojoba

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

“Release Toxic Thought Patterns”

Juniper          2 drops

Peru Balsam  1 drop

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

 

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

4. 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.

Bergamot    2 drops in white clay.

Relax and meditate for 5 minutes with some chilled music.

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

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

copyright suzannerbanks 2013

10 Essential Oil Recipes to Inspire Creativity

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

Amazon USA      Amazon AU      Amazon UK


 

10 Essential Oil Recipes to Inspire Creativity

Get your creative self moving!

Get your creative self moving!

 

Are you someone who has a creative job or profession, or are you a budding poet, artist, writer or musician? Whoever you are, and regardless of what you do on a daily basis, sometimes it’s hard to come up with original ideas and tap into the never-ending creative flow of the universe. Are you studying and need to write essays or are you entering a local art competition? Maybe it’s getting started that is the issue or maybe you need extra juice to get your project finished. Well fear no more, here are some essential oils recipes to help you dodge your stagnating mind, and open you to possibility.

Take a huge whiff to change your focus in seconds

Take a huge whiff to change your focus in seconds

1. Open The Bottle and Take a Huge Whiff

Basil – open your mind and third eye

Rosemary – stimulate your brain and remember your true creative self

Ylang Ylang – release anger and frustration

Cardamom – generate flow of qi throughout your body

Petitgrain – access your creative potential

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

Sexy black diffuser from puzhen.com

Sexy black diffuser from puzhen.com

2. Scent Your Space

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

“Good Times Come to Me Now”

A chant for the happiness to come on in –

Mandarin                           8 drops

Lemongrass                      8 drops

Cedarwood Himalayan      6 drops

Patchouli                           3 drops

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

“1, 2, 3 GO”

Just start –

Juniper          10 drops

May Chang     8 drops

Nutmeg          5 drops

Wintergreen    2 drops

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

“Purple Vibrations”

Access the faster moving colour vibrations –

Lavender           5 drops

Black Spruce     8 drops

Orange              8 drops

Palmarosa        4 drops

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

“Hmmmmmmmmmm”

Start wondering, daydreaming, and something will come to you –

Rosewood       10 drops

Clary Sage         5 drops

Pine                   5 drops

Peru Balsam       5 drops

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

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

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.

Eucalyptus – wow wake up! Cleanse the old energy

Cypress – move away from your ego into spirit

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

Anoint yourself with pure essential oil blends

Anoint yourself with pure essential oil blends

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!

“Pure Creation”

Jasmine 3%  a few drops straight from the bottle * see my article for more info on 3% blends in jojoba

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

“Warmth and Movement”

Ginger                1 drop

Pink Grapefruit   2 drops

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

“I am a Champion!”

Positive self talk will help open any creative blockages –

Sandalwood Indian   1 drop

Bergamot                 2 drops

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

“The Little Engine that Could”

One step at a time will lead to a finished project –

Rosemary      1 drop

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

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

Remember to treat yourself first, then everyone will benefit.

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

copyright suzannerbanks 2013

 

 

10 Essential Oil Recipes to Help Deal with Road Rage and Traffic

Traffic!

Traffic!

When looking for inspiration for articles one of my readers suggested I apply the 10 Recipes series to minimising road rage and dealing with traffic. Great idea so here goes.

If you are someone that has to deal with traffic congestion on a daily basis, and gets frustrated by it, then these oils may be for you.

Or, are you someone that just can’t handle what others do on the road and then completely freak out about it? Road rage? It seems sad that we now have a widely accepted term for this anger on the roads and that’s not good at all. This is just a reflection of how angry we are as a society, and how we are not coping with modern day life. You definitely need some oils.

Look people, just calm down ok? Release anger, and have a more “go with the flow” attitude when driving. If you can’t do that then stop driving. If you really hate the traffic on your way to work try and find solutions that put you in a less stressful situation (public transport, car pooling).

If you must drive and tend to get a bit stressed then try these 10 recipes to start your day;

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

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

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

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

Peppermint – clarity, happiness

Tea Tree – cleanse your aura and energy

Mandarin – happiness, allowing

Lemongrass – stimulating and refreshing, happiness

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

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”

By doing this in the morning, while using your good intention, you will start your day with scented positivity. Allow this feeling to infuse good vibes all day long.

“Patience is a Virtue”

Sure is –

Lemon           3 drops

Frankincense  3 drops

Patchouli        2 drops

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

“I Wonder What Good Things Are Coming My Way?”

Open up to possibility –

Lavender                      4 drops

Petitgrain                      2 drops

Cedarwood Virginian    2 drops

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

“I Heart You Even Though You Didn’t Let Me Merge”

Ylang Ylang         3 drops

Orange               2 drops

Rosewood          2 drops

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

“Repeat the Happy Mantra”

Lemongrass      3 drops

Peru Balsam      2 drops

Spearmint          2 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!)

“Smile and Wave, Smile and Wave”

Let others drive the way they drive, practice being kind anyway –

Basil               6 drops

Mandarin       12 drops

Lemon Myrtle   7 drops

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

“1, 2, 3”

Count to 3 and then breathe deeply, release anger –

Juniper           8 drops

Lime              10 drops

Vanilla CO2     6 drops

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

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

“Bubble of Love”

You’re in control of your little space (and headspace) –

Bergamot        10 drops

Black Spruce     7 drops

Marjoram           6 drops

Clary Sage        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!

“Sniff and Go”

A quick natural perfume for your wrists to sniff in the middle of traffic to help release anxiety –

Neroli 3%    a few drops straight from the bottle

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

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

“Sniff and Go Too”

You are the benevolent Queen –

Rose 3%  a few drops straight from the bottle

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

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

 

 

 

 

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

 

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.

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

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

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

 

“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

 

 

Essential Oils and Babies – Do They Go Together?

Do essential oils and babies go together? Thats a good question natural beauties. Read on to find out the best way to use essential oils around babies.

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

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

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

Precious little person

Precious little person

**********

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.


Any child up to 3 years I will consider a baby for this article and topic. Babies have  extremely new and sensitive skin so

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

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

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

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

There's so many easy ways to diffuse essential oils now

There’s so many easy ways to diffuse essential oils now

 

You can use essential oils with your baby in the environment around them and the best way to do this is to use a diffuser and vapourise the essential oils in their room. You can buy humidifier from your pharmacy specifically made for children so they can breathe easier, and you may also use calming essential oils so they sleep better too. An ordinary motorised diffuser will be fine for this as well, but as a precaution don’t use a burner with a candle. Refer to the model of your diffuser for amounts of oil and if there is no info I would only use 6 drops.

 

Babies love baths

Babies love baths

 

If you really want to add something to your baby’s bath you could use some organic herbal tea (a couple of teaspoons) wrapped in some muslin and make a weak infusion. Chamomile and lavender would be the only herbs I would use. In the same vein you could use organic oats which makes a soft, skin soothing bath which is safe for babies and will help soothe nappy rash and hot skin. A dash of hydrosol would be fine too.

A lovely selection of rosewater

A lovely selection of rosewater

 

A great alternative to essential oils that works well with babies and kids are hydrosols and floral waters. They have a mild scent and are safe you to be misted all around your baby to help induce a sense of calm and also for cooling them down in summer. The best hydrosols will be rose, lavender, roman chamomile and neroli (or orange blossom). See my article Hydrosols vs Floral Waters – What’s the Diff? for more information.

You will find rosewater and orange blossom water in some food stores and to be on the safe side I would water these down, otherwise buy a good quality (organic if possible) hydrosol from a natural beauty/aromatherapy store.

 

Essential Oils for Baby’s Sleep

lavender

Roman chamomile

bergamot

marjoram

Essential Oils for Baby’s Better Breathing

frankincense

eucalyptus (sparingly ie 1 or 2 drops in a humidifier only and do not continue the treatment for more than a night or two) *

lavender

* a reader of my blog has asked a question regarding eucalyptus and babies –

“I enjoyed your article. However, why do you recommend eucalyptus? I have read it is not safe for young children. Wouldn’t fir needle, a pine, or spruce be a better option?”

My answer –

I have referenced 3 text books and only one leans towards avoiding eucalyptus with young babies. It has an active ingredient called 1-8 cineole that can be toxic in lethal doses but nothing like a couple of drops you would use in a humidifier. It may be best for me to update this article to be very specific about using eucalyptus with babies. It is still one of the best mucolytic oils. Fir, pine and/or spruce could be used as a substitute for sure, but they won’t be as effective.

Also some oils/formulas that are specific for kids & babies, that are sold with humidifiers, contain many questionable ingredients and could even be potentially more dangerous than a drop or two of eucalyptus.

Sleeping babies are happy babies

Sleeping babies are happy babies

 

Essential Oils For Baby’s Crying

Try putting a couple of drops of oil on your clothes and when your hold your baby, they will just get a small scent of oil, mixed in with your scent, and this may work really well to settle them down. Just be careful not to let the babies face touch against you where the oil is.

vetiver (sparingly as its very strong – just a drop will do. You could also add a drop to the sleep oils too

lavender

Roman chamomile

You can see a pattern here – pretty much just stick with lavender and a few other oils until your baby is older.

 

Please your you motherly or fatherly intuition with your baby and remember if you use a diffuser the whole family will benefit from the aromatherapy treatment too.

copyright suzanne

 

 

 

 

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

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“Anti-Puff”

Release puffiness and a feel a bit lighter –

Lemon      3 drops

Fennel      2 drops

Cypress   3 drops

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“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

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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.

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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

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“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

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“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

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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

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“Truth”

Simplicity is the key –

Lemon            2 drops

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

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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

 

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

copyright suzanne

 

 

 

10 Recipes with Rosemary Essential Oil – Rosmarinus officianalis

Rosemary is a wonder herb and so is the oil

Rosemary is a wonder herb and so is the oil

Rosemary is a spicy, stimulating essential oil which warms the body and helps the mind to remember. It is used frequently in Aromatherapy as it’s accessible, inexpensive and gives great results.

Rosemary will warm up the hands and feet and can even help with arthritis pain. It is wonderful in an oil blend for muscle pain and I often use it in a treatment blend with lavender and marjoram for this very purpose.

When you need more energy (both mentally and physically), a bit more warmth; when you need to get your brain working – think rosemary essential oil. Let’s check out some recipes.

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

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

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

This works in a similar way to just taking a whiff straight from the bottle, but if you’ve got an extra minute, it will give you a completely different experience. Your whole body will be immersed in an essential oil steam.

Use rosemary in the shower if you can’t seem to wake up in the morning or if you need your brain to switch on for a full day ahead.

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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.

***** 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”

“Oh My Aching Body”

You get the drift –

Rosemary        8 drops

Lavandin         8 drops * for more info on Lavandin see my article Lavender – Simple and Complicated All at the Same Time

Marjoram        8 drops

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

“Winter’s Run”

A pre-run warm up blend – pay attention to your feet and calves when rubbing in the oil –

Rosemary         10 drops

Lemongrass        8 drops

Ginger                 7 drops

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

“Long Day Ahead”

A stimulating body blend to keep your muscles going –

Rosemary    6 drops

Orange        6 drops

Rosewood   6 drops

Palmarosa   6 drops

Vetiver         1 drop

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Sexy black diffuser from puzhen.com

Sexy black diffuser from puzhen.com

3. Scent Your Space

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

“Must Keep Studying!”

To keep your brain awake –

Rosemary          12 drops

Petitgrain           12 drops

Buddha Wood     1 drop

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“Meeting of the Minds”

A great blend to get brain storming in your meeting –

Rosemary     8 drops

Basil             6 drops

Mandarin     11 drops

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

“Whistle While you (House) Work”

Come on its time to do the housework –

Rosemary      10 drops

Ylang Ylang     8 drops

Lime                7 drops

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

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

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

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!

Wonder Woman”

Rosemary               1 drop

Sandalwood Indian 1 drop

Geranium                1 drop

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“Car Pool Tonic”

Rosemary        1 drop

Peru Balsam    2 drops

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

“Confidence is the Key”

Rosemary         1 drop

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

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

copyright suzanne

 

 

10 Recipes with Ylang Ylang Essential Oil – Cananga odorata

Gorgeous flower gorgeous scent. I don’t think I’ve met anyone who doesn’t like this oil and even though it’s a floral, men still love it because of it’s very deep basey scent. Of course I’m generalising but I want you to know that men can love floral oils and women can love herbs and woods, and vice versa. If you want to get your partner in the mood for some loving (whether male or female), then choose this amazing oil.

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Buy my 100% natural and organic botanical perfumes, and paperback book here: suzannerbanks.com.au

Digital downloads of my book Revelation! Reveal your Destiny with Essentials Oils:

Barnes & Noble      Booktopia AU      Amazon UK

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Wh!at a gorgeous flower

 

For more specifics on this beautiful plant and oil check out my previous article here. For now let’s get into it!

1. Pure Pulse Point Perfume

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

“I Love Myself”

You better!

Ylang Ylang    2 drops

Bergamot      1 drop


“Tropical Breeze”

Feel summery and delicious even in winter –

Ylang Ylang    1 drop

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


“Release Frustration”

Ylang Ylang     1 drop

Frankincense   2 drops


“Not a care in the World”

Ylang Ylang          1 drop

Petitgrain              1 drop

Cedarwood Atlas  1 drop


 

Artsisan diffuser

 

2. Scent Your Space

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

“You WILL Be Mine”

Ylang Ylang     8 drops

Mandarin         8 drops

Black Pepper   6 drops

Juniper            4 drops


“My Corner of The World”

Enjoy your own space and your own company –

Ylang Ylang      8 drops

Lime                 8 drops

Lavender          6 drops

Clove               3 drops


“Sexy Love Bedroom Disco”

Ylang Ylang                  8 drops

Sandalwood Mysore    6 drops

Orange                       11 drops


 

Body oils make lovely legs

 

3. Nourishing Body Oil Blend

For a coat of your body use 3 teaspoons of carrier oil in a little dish and, add 7 – 8 drops of essential oil.

***** 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”

 

“Life is Beautiful”

Ylang Ylang                      3 drops

Marjoram                          3 drops

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


“Nourish and Repair”

Skin can benefit from Ylang Ylang –

Ylang Ylang         2 drops

Lavender             2 drops

Patchouli             2 drops

Peru Balsam        1 drop


“You WILL Be Mine – The Musical”

Ylang Ylang                  3 drops

Cedarwood Virginiana  2 drops

Pink Grapefruit             3 drops


Lavandula stoechas, my own pic thanks yes it is wonderful

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

copyright suzanne

 

 

10 Recipes with Lemongrass Essential Oil- Cymbopogon citratus

Delicious lemongrass

Delicious lemongrass

Lemongrass belongs to the Poaceae family (the grasses), and its genus is Cymbopogon. Other plants you may know in this family are palmarosa, citronella and vetiver (same family different Genus).

Commercially lemongrass essential oil comes from Cymbopogon citratus and Cymbopogon flexuosis, some of my suppliers have both, and some only have one.

“East Indian lemon grass (Cymbopogon flexuosus), also called Cochin grass or Malabar grass (Malayalam: (inchippullu), is native to Cambodia, Vietnam, India, Sri Lanka, Burma, and Thailand, while West Indian lemon grass (Cymbopogon citratus) is native to maritime Southeast Asia.” Wikipedia

Recently I have seen more C. flexuosis on offer and I wouldn’t really be able to tell the difference unless I had both bottles to sniff at the same time. There are variations in chemical constituents however if you bought either you would be fine to use them in the recipes below.

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

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

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

This works in a similar way to just taking a whiff straight from the bottle, but if you’ve got an extra minute, it will give you a completely different experience. Your whole body will be immersed in an essential oil steam.

With a lemongrass steam in the shower expect to feel uplifted, awakened, refreshed and ready to go. Some extra happiness may also randomly occur.

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.

***** 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”

“Pre Exercise Zinger”

When you need a bit of encouragement to get you going –

Lemongrass     2 drops

Rosemary         2 drops

Orange             4 drops

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

“After Exercise Soother”

Lemongrass       3 drops

Marjoram           2 drops

Lavender           2 drops

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

“Eye of the Tiger”

To give yourself some positive vibes for the day ahead –

Lemongrass                   3 drops

Cedarwood Virginiana    2 drops

Rosewood                     3 drops

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

Anoint yourself with pure essential oil blends

Anoint yourself with pure essential oil blends

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!

“Energy NOW!”

Lemongrass    1 drop

Basil                1 drop

Geranium         1 drop

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

“After Work Before a Dinner Date”

Refresh and revitalize –

Lemongrass        1 drop

Petitgrain             1 drop

Nutmeg               1 drop

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

“It’s Gonna Be a Bumpy Ride”

To help with travel sickness –

Lemongrass        1 drop

Ginger                 1 drop

Peppermint          1 drop

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

oil burner

A classic oil burner with a candle helps to remove and transmute unwanted energy

4. Scent Your Space

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

“Freedom”

Lemongrass     8 drops

Peru Balsam     9 drops

Cinnamon         8 drops

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

“A Night of Intrigue and Love”

Lemongrass        6 drops

Ylang Ylang         6 drops

Mandarin             6 drops

Sandalwood        6 drops

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

“Sunny Sunday”

The perfect scent for a Sunday afternoon –

Lemongrass          8 drops

Bergamot            10 drops

Cedarwood Atlas   7 drops

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

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

copyright suzannerbanks 2013