10 Botanical Perfume Recipes to Balance Your Energy

Hello natural beauties, I’ve been feeling a little exhausted lately, how about you? I’m not sure whether its the weather (brrrr it’s cold here in Sydney), the powerful solstice and full moon, or just the space-time continuum bending and flowing at ultra high speeds? I need some quick pick-me-ups so here are some essential oil perfume recipes:

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

Barnes & Noble      Booktopia AU      Amazon UK

and many other stores worldwide as an ebook and paperback

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Rose is the Queen of oils

Rose is the Queen of oils

 

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!


“Queen”

Even out the ups and downs:

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

Ylang Ylang   1 drop


“Flower Child”

Be calm and connect with your feminine power:

Geranium                         1 drop

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

Lavender                          1 drop


“I Saw A Sign”

Open your body to receive guidance (not just your mind):

Cedarwood Atlas     1 drop

Basil                        1 drop

May Chang              1 drop


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

 

“Dreaming of the Day”

Never stop dreaming – it can reduce stress on a daily basis:

Peru Balsam    2 drops

Orange            1 drop


“Gettin Vibed Up”

When you need a burst of energy:

Lemongrass      1 drop

Rosemary          1 drop

Rose Geranium  1 drop


“Warmth and Comfort”

Take time to rest and rejuvenate:

Marjoram        1 drop

Lime                1 drop

Bergamot        1 drop


“Soul Deep”

Look within for balance:

Australian Sandalwood   1 drop

Ginger                             1 drop

Mandarin                         1 drop


Jasmine officinalis

Jasmine officinalis

 

“Sweet Heart”

Hop into the flow of giving and receiving – It’s important to receive to!:

Indian rosewood         1 drop

Petitgrain                    1 drop

Cedarwood Virginian   1 drop


“Chill Baby”

When you really need a time out:

Frankincense       1 drop

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


“Holiday In Italy”

Have a real or virtual holiday:

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

Palmarosa        1 drop

Wonderful frankincense resin is steam distilled into the beautiful oil

Wonderful frankincense resin is steam distilled into the beautiful oil

 

Remember to treat yourself first, then everyone will benefit.

Check out my YouTube channel too, thanks.

copyright 2016

3 Essential Essential Oils for Stress Relief

Essential oils work powerfully on the mind and the brain, and often smelling an oil is enough to create change in emotions and stress addiction. Stress often becomes a habit that we get used to rather than a trigger to help us survive, and in turn we get adrenal and cortisol overload. This is not good! Smell an essential oil to break your bad habit.

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

Barnes & Noble      Booktopia AU      Amazon UK

and many other stores worldwide as an ebook and paperback

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

sweet little marjoram leaves

sweet little marjoram leaves

Marjoram (Oreganum marjorana)

Keyword: relief

Little leaf, big scent, great results. Marjoram has been used in herbal medicine for centuries, and comes from a time when our food was our medicine. This beautiful herb essential oil will help everyone from babies to the elderly with its stunning aromatic medicine. Marjoram is wonderful for:

  • muscle pain
  • period pain
  • headaches
  • grief
  • any kind of physical stress
  • soothing emotional pain and angst
  • help induce sleep
Wonderful frankincense resin is steam distilled into the beautiful oil

Wonderful frankincense resin is steam distilled into the beautiful oil

 

Frankincense (Boswellia carterii)

Keywords: meditation, truth, preservation

Another botanical substance that has been used for a long time, made popular by stories from the Bible, is a must have for stress relief. This essential oil which is steam distilled from the resin has a deeply calming effect by inducing longer, slower, deeper breaths. This leads to a meditative state of mind creating Alpha brainwaves to help you chill out. It is great for:

  • asthma attacks and sufferers
  • coughing and not being able to breathe very well
  • meditation and instilling a greater connection to spirit
  • relaxing in general
  • connecting to your youthfulness, no matter how old or young you are
  • helping us see the bigger picture, and moving us away from a busy mind
  • setting up a restful sleep

 

German Chamomile and Roman chamomile are both great for stress

German Chamomile and Roman chamomile are both great for stress

The Chamomiles – German Chamomile (Matricaria recutita) and

Roman Chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile)

Keywords: cool down         and          less tension more inspiration

Both chamomiles are wonderful for stress relief but work in slightly different ways and have distinctly different scents. Roman chamomile has an intense honey-like sweetness whereas German chamomile is very deeply herbaceous.

German chamomile is good for:

  • healing inflammation in the body and in the emotions
  • heat and anger
  • restlessness
  • inducing sleep

Roman chamomile is good for

  • reducing cramping in the body
  • unwinding inflexibility which can lead to more stress
  • soothing tiredness
  • relaxing the body as a whole
  • allowing tension to subside

The best and easiest way to use the oils is to open the bottle and take a whiff.


more gorgeous lavender

more gorgeous lavender

 

If you’re wondering why I haven’t included lavender in this article it’s because I know that you know it’s a really great oil for stress relief – well done!

For more ideas on how to use essential oils check out my other articles:

How to Use Essential Oils – A Dummies Guide

“Ratios for Blending Essential Oils – A Reminder of the Basics” and

“Aromatherapy – It’s Easy as 1 2 3”


copryright SR Banks 2015

 

 

10 Body Oil Recipes for Seasonal Change

There’s nothing like a nourishing essential oil blend for your body, to soften your skin, cover you with energetic protection and generally keep your spirits up. And there’s no better time than now of course, as we move from one season to the next.

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

Barnes & Noble      Booktopia AU      Amazon UK

and many other stores worldwide as an ebook and paperback

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

Body oils make lovely legs

Body oils make lovely legs

 

As per usual here is my spiel on making a body oil:

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 took this gorgeous pic in Sydney on the weekend

I took this gorgeous pic in Sydney on the weekend

Winter to Spring

This is a time to wake your body up, shed winter skin and get moving! Smell the sweet flowers and get happy ….

1. Spring Vibin’

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

Orange            4 drops

Ginger              1 drop


2. Leg Warmer Upperer and Getting Ready for Summer Legs

Rosemary      2 drops

Lemon          4 drops

Cypress         2 drops


3. Sprouting Soul

Petitgrain       3 drops

Lavender       3 drops

Patchouli       2 drops


4. A love of Blossoms

Mandarin      4 drops

Geranium      2 drops

Ylang Ylang   1 drop


5. Signs of Abundance

Palmarosa                     4 drops

Australian Sandalwood    2 drops

Black pepper                   1 drop


Do you have a cold autumn or a warm autumn?

Do you have a cold autumn or a warm autumn?

Summer to Autumn

A time of lingering summer memories, cooling down and appreciating your life.

1. Gee That Was Fun!

Lemongrass                3 drops

Juniper                        2 drops

Cedarwood Virginian   2 drops


2. What’s the Plan Now?

Bergamot                 4 drops

Lavender                   2 drops

Indian Rosewood      2 drops


3. Winding Down

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

Marjoram                             2 drops

Lime                                    1 drop


 

4. The Colours of Happiness

Pink Grapefruit           7 drops

Vetiver                        1 drop


5. Memories

Rose 3%               9 drops

Rose Geranium     3 drops

Rosemary              1 drop


 

Yellow roses for happiness and friendship

Yellow roses for happiness and friendship

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

Check out my YouTube channel too, thanks.

copryright SR Banks 2015

 

 

 

 

 

 

My Top 5 Oils for Brides – Part 2 (A Fresh Look, 2014)

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

Amazon USA      Amazon AU      Amazon UK


My Top 5 Oils for Brides – Part 2 (A Fresh Look, 2014)

 

a beautiful Indian bride

a beautiful bride

In my article My Top 5 Oils for Brides – Part 1 (New Edition 2014) I talk about what oils are best for the pending nuptials. Here’s a recap –

Neroli

Rose

Lavender

Geranium

Frankincense

But how do you use the oils?

We all know every wedding is different and each bride and groom are unique, but the one thing they all have in common is that they all want a memorable experience for them and their guests. Whether it be a simple beach wedding or a lavish affair at a glamourous venue with hundreds of guests, the bride will have some organising to do.

Unfortunately the oils won’t do everything but they will support you on your journey from fiancé to wife.

a happy beach wedding

a happy beach wedding

Essential oils will give emotional support and a scented burst of clarity and calm during the process. You could either use lots of different kinds of oils or pick a couple and make a combination that becomes your signature scent. So let’s look at the best 2 ways to use your oils.

1. Nourishing Body Oil

I recommend making a bottle of your chosen oil blend to use daily as a moisturiser, and more importantly as a connection to your spirit and a tonic to your mind. You will start your day off by paying attention to yourself, centering your mind and preparing for what is to come. And – your skin will look and feel totally amazing! I use oil on my skin every day and it works – my skin feels wonderful and looks good too! When your bottle is finished you can make another combo or stay with the same blend.

Alternatively for one 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”

“Heart”

To keep the flow of energy in your heart chakra while planning your wedding

– for a 50ml bottle –

Rosewood    10 drops

Lavender       5 drops

Rose  3%      20 drops * see my article for more info on 3% blends in jojoba

 

When making a daily blend of essential oil this often takes up time and is the first thing to be put on hold when you are juggling work, your private life and creating your perfect wedding. Consider making a bottle so it’s on hand every morning.


 

“Cool, Calm and Collected”

To breathe deeply and keep anxiety at bay

– to make a blend enough for one day –

Frankincense                       3 drops

Cardamom                          1 drop

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


“Strength and Courage”

– to make a blend enough for one day –

Geranium                       3 drops

Neroli 3%                       7 drops * see my article for more info on 3% blends in jojoba

Vetiver                            1 drop


 

Any bottle with an atomiser top will do!

Any bottle with an atomiser top will do!

 

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!)

This is a great portable way to keep an aromatherapy treatment with you. It is simply essential oils in an atomiser bottle filled with water. There is no need to use any emulsification agents,just shake before you mist. It can be used to refresh your face, cleanse and protect your aura, give your brain a boost and will make you smell like a natural goddess.

“Mother Earth Energy”

To keep a sense of worldliness and compassion on those crazy days –

Frankincense       10 drops

Bergamot           10 drops

Patchouli              5 drops


 

“I’ve Got the Power”

When you need strength and fortitude, with a smile –

Geranium                 10 drops

Lemon                      7 drops

Lavender                   5 drops

Cinnamon                  3 drops


 

“I’m Loving Every Minute of this Journey”

Enjoy the process –

Rose Geranium     8 drops

Orange                12 drops

Peru Balsam          5 drops


 

Remember to treat your self first then everyone will benefit.

 

copryright SR Banks

10 Recipes with Spearmint Essential Oil – Mentha spicata

Flowering spearmint - Mentha spicata

Flowering spearmint – Mentha spicata

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

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

The classic Wrigley's Spearmint sticks

The classic Wrigley’s Spearmint sticks

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

But I digress.

Back to the plant and oil.

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

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

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

1. Personal Aura Cleansing Mist & Room Mist

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

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

“Happy Kids Happy Life”

Spritz around the little ones to lighten up the vibe –

Spearmint          10 drops

Orange               10 drops

Geranium              5 drops


“I Think I Ate Too Much”

Spearmint         8 drops

Lemon             12 drops

Lime                  5 drops


“Light and Happy”

Refresh your aura –

Spearmint         8 drops

Bergamot          8 drops

Rosewood         5 drops

Frankincense     4 drops


“New Workspace Energy”

Change the feeling in your creative space for the better –

Spearmint        6 drops

Mandarin        12 drops

Lavender          5 drops

Patchouli          2 drops


Anoint yourself with pure essential oil blends

Anoint yourself with pure essential oil blends

2. Pure Pulse Point Perfume

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

“Faeries Live in My Garden”

Spearmint                       1 drop

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


“The Only Way is Up”

You CAN be a positive about the future –

Spearmint           1 drop

Lemongrass        1 drop

Rose Geranium   1 drop


“Today WILL be Easy!”

Spearmint     1 drop

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


 

 

Lovely long hair in great condition

Add essential oils to keep your hair in great condition

 

3. Hair Mask

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

Spearmint       2 drops

Lavender        4 drops

Rosemary       1 drop


 

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

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

4. Soak in a bath

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

“Evening Treat”

Spearmint       2 drops

Ylang Ylang     2 drops


“Morning Zinger”

Spearmint      2 drops

Juniper          1 drop

Cypress         1 drop


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

copryright SR Banks

 

 

 

De-Stress

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

Amazon USA      Amazon AU      Amazon UK


Chapter 9

De-stress

Another look in between the covers of my book

 

De-stress from distress and be happier

De-stress from distress and be happier

 

Stress in the 2ist century, in Western life, is pretty much the cause all kind of disease.

“If you ask what is the single most important key to longevity, I would have to say it is avoiding worry, stress and tension. And if you didn’t ask me, I’d still have to say it.”

George Burns,  Actor

There you go – stop worrying and stressing.

Live longer, and prosper.

Live long and prosper, the Vulcan goodbye

Live long and prosper, the Vulcan greeting

By simply using essential oils in any matter, you will give your brain and chance to refocus and change the current vibe.

* Just open a bottle of oil and have a big sniff. Your brain is in charge of your body so by re-calibrating your thought patterns you have a better chance of having a healthier stress-free body too.

* Put a few drops of an oil in the bottom of the shower before and/or after work, or a stressful day, to help you come down off your high cortisone levels. Once again, give you brain and body a wake-up call to release tension on a daily basis

* Chronic stress can lead to chronic (and acute) disease and we often find out too late. Stress and worry won’t help change your situation so you’ll have to change it from the inside out.

* Have a massage or make your own body oil to completely rejuvenate your body and cleanse your aura

What oils are great to use to minimise stress?

Roman chamomile - pic via 3morganic.com

Roman chamomile – pic via 3morganic.com

 

The Chamomiles – Roman and German

Both these oils often come in a 3 % blend as they are more expensive than most essential oils. See my article for more info on 3% blends in jojoba.  Use these oils straight from the bottle like a perfume, but if you find them as a 100% pure oil just use them in the same ratios as you would with other oils.

Roman chamomile (Anthemis nobilis) is soft, syrupy and sweet and is a great oil for cramping and tension.

German chamomile has a dark blue colour and is deeply herbaceous smelling. This oil is good for heat and inflammation.

Marjoram - pic via www.101herbs.com

Marjoram – pic via http://www.101herbs.com

 

Marjoram

Marjoram is second to lavender for me. I use this oil frequently as it has such wonderful properties. Not only is it a great oil for stress and anxiety, it is a must-have for muscle soreness. It has a strong scent but manages to blend so well with all the other oils and it is an ancient herb that has lasted through the ages.

This oil also helps induce sleep, is great for treating grief, and helps calm an overactive mind. It is the oil of relief.

To find out which other essential oils can help you de-stress, click on one of the links below.

Amazon USA      Amazon AU      Amazon UK

Thanks everyone.

copryright SR Banks

 

 

10 Recipes with Vetiver Essential Oil

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

Amazon USA      Amazon AU      Amazon UK


10 Recipes with Vetiver Essential Oil

 

Hairy vetiver root
Hairy vetiver root

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

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

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

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

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

Let’s check out some recipes;

1. Nourishing Body Oil

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

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

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

“Crocodile Skin”

Remove the scaliness –

Lavender      3 drops

Palmarosa   3 drops

Vetiver         1 drop


“Softly, Gently”

Calm yourself down by oiling yourself up –

Lemon             3 drops

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

Vetiver               1 drop


“Head in the Clouds”

Bring yourself down to earth and get “grounded” –

Lemongrass                     3 drops

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

Vetiver                              1 drop


2. Hair Mask

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

Rosemary   2 drops

Lavender    2 drops

Orange       2 drops

Vetiver        2 drops


3. Scent Your Space

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

“Slow it Down Sister”

Chill, be calm

Marjoram    8 drops

Mandarin    8 drops

Spearmint   7 drops

Vetiver        2 drops


“Kids. Driving. Me. Nuts. Help”

Petitgrain                   10 drops

Cedarwood Virginian    6 drops

Peru Balsam                6 drops

Vetiver                         3 drops


4. Personal Aura Cleansing Mist & Room Mist

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

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

“Givin Myself Some Room”

Allow time to relax –

Rosewood         8 drops

Bergamot          8  drops

Ylang Ylang       4  drops

Cinnamon         4 drops

Vetiver               1 drop


“Serenity NOW!”

Orange                           10 drops

Rose Geranium               8 drops

Cedarwood Himalayan    5 drops

Vetiver                             2 drops


“Sweet Sleep”

Lavender    9 drops

Lime           8 drops

Marjoram    6 drops

Vetiver        2 drops


 

5. Soak in a bath

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

“Finally Me Time”

Frankincense   3 drops

Vetiver             1 drop


Remember to treat yourself first, then everyone will benefit.

copryright SR Banks

10 Recipes with Himalayan Cedarwood – Cedrus deodora

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

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

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

Let’s check out some recipes –

Face mask it!

Face mask it!

1. Face Mask

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

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

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

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

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

2. Nourishing Body Oil Blend

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

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

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

“I’m the One and Only”

Respect yourself –

Himalayan cedarwood       2 drops

Orange                              4 drops

Lavender                            2 drops

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

“Forest of Dreams”

Click into the vibes of the sacred Deodora forests –

Himalayan cedarwood       2 drops

Rosewood                         3 drops

Bergamot                          3 drops

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

“Energy Now!”

Himalayan cedarwood       3 drops

Lemongrass                      4 drops

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

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

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

3. Personal Aura Cleansing Mist & Room Mist

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

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

“Portable Sacred Space”

Himalayan cedarwood       8 drops

Mandarin                         10 drops

May Chang                        4 drops

Sage                                  3 drops

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

“Meditation Anywhere”

Himalayan cedarwood       6 drops

Frankincense                  12 drops

Lime                                 7 drops

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

“Overthinking, 0: Feeling, 1”

Himalayan cedarwood       8 drops

Peru balsam                      8 drops

Ginger                               4 drops

Geranium                          4 drops

Vetiver                               1 drop

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

Anoint yourself with pure essential oil blends

Anoint yourself with pure essential oil blends

4. Pure Pulse Point Perfume

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

“Thankful”

Himalayan cedarwood       1 drop

Lemon                               1 drop

Ylang Ylang                        1 drop

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

Changing my Epi-Genetic Markers”

Himalayan cedarwood       1 drop

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

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

“Inter Stellar Travel”

Himalayan cedarwood       1 drop

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

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

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

copyright suzannerbanks 2013

 

 

 

 

10 Recipes with Marjoram Essential Oil – Oreganum marjorana

Marjoram - pic via www.podgardening.co.nz

Marjoram – pic via http://www.podgardening.co.nz

Marjoram is an essential oil I use frequently with clients as it has a beautiful scent and some wonderful qualities. It hails from the Lamiacae family (along with many other herbs), the genus Oreganum and the species marjorana. It has a much more pleasant scent than oregano and therefore has more uses in aromatherapy.

In aromatherapy today marjoram is used for –

* aching and sore muscles

* general body pain and as a warming tonic

* to help someone deal with grief and as a sedative for distraught emotions

* to help with falling asleep

* to counteract stress and generally for calming and soothing

* to reduce coughing

Let’s try out 10 recipes –

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

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

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

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

Marjoram in the shower will help you unwind at the end of a very stressful day, or give you warming shower before bed on a cold night.

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

 

Anoint yourself with pure essential oil blends

Anoint yourself with pure essential oil blends

2. Pure Pulse Point Perfume

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

 “Planning My Day”

Start out nice and calm –

Marjoram     1 drop

Bergamot    2 drops

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

“Kindness”

Marjoram    1 drop

Nutmeg       1 drop

Mandarin     1 drop

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

“Warm Heart”

Marjoram    1 drop

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

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

“Serenity Now”

Marjoram                    1 drop

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

Lavender                     1 drop

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

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

“HEAD.ACHE”

Please go away –

Marjoram     8 drops

Lavender      8 drops

Peppermint  5 drops

Orange        4 drops

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

“Chill Out Sunday Sessions”

Marjoram       6 drops

Petitgrain      10 drops

Peru Balsam   6 drops

Patchouli        3 drops

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

Rub oil into your body - it's good!

Rub oil into your body – it’s good!

4. 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”

“Achey Breaky Body”

Marjoram     3 drops

Ginger         2 drops

Rosemary   2 drops

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

“Pre Yoga”

Marjoram       3 drops

Lemongrass   3 drops

Black Pepper  1 drop

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

“Apre Run”

Marjoram    3 drops

Rosewood  3 drops

Fennel         2 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.

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

 

Can you use essential oils on babies?

 

Short answer = YES – but not on them directly.

 

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

suzannerbanks

 

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

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

Kids respond really well to essential oils used in their environment

Kids respond really well to essential oils used in their environment

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

ouch!

ouch!

 

Cuts and Scrapes

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

 

Kids Crying and Whingeing – Stress and Sleep Blends

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

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

 

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

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

 

Personal Aura Cleansing Mist & Room Mist

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

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

“Anytime Chill Out”

Lavender      4 drops

Orange         4 drops

Petitgrain      3 drops

Vetiver          1 drop


“Close Your Eyes”

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

Lavender      4 drops

Mandarin      4 drops

Marjoram      4 drops


 

Fun times - pic ia ksoo.com

Fun times – pic ia ksoo.com

 

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

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

You can –

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

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

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

Rose  – cool the body, nurture their spirit

Neroli – to help relieve stress and anxiety

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

 

Puzhen diffuser from the 5 senses series - puzhen.com

Puzhen diffuser from the 5 senses series – puzhen.com

 

Other oils for the diffuser or vapouriser could include –

bergamot – relieve tension, inspire happiness

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

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

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

*******

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

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

copyright suzannerbanks 2013