10 Recipes with Mandarin Essential Oil – Citrus reticulata

Mandarins are colourful, tasty and smell wonderful!

Mandarins are colourful, tasty and smell wonderful!

Oh the lovely scent of mandarin could make anyone happy! I rate all the citrus oils as happiness oils as they’re so fresh and light and zingy and sparkly.

Mandarin essential oil is different to orange oil, just as the fruit is different. It is a deeper, more red colour than orange oil, which can vary from light orange to yellow. The deepness of the colour adds to the unique properties of mandarin oil as red connects us with the base chakra, which is all about survival and all the necessities to live. When taking in this information and combining it with the mouth watering scent of the fruit, mandarin essential oil can open our minds to the big concepts of the universe.

In aromatherapy mandarin oil does not have a lot of therapeutic uses but can be used for –

* improving digestion (by using externally not internally, or drinking tea made with the rind)

* alleviating stress and improving relaxation

* counteracting stretch marks in pregnancy

I use it to connect us to the simple – yet huge – concepts of how the universe works.

Let’s get into some recipes –

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

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”

 

yum!

yum!

**** the basic rule when using citrus oils in an oil blend all over your body is not to go out and sun bake or expose yourself to massive amounts of sunlight as these oils may cause a photo toxic reaction.

“Love and Happiness”

Explains itself really –

Mandarin    3 drops

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

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

“Tra La La”

Get some happiness in your body –

Mandarin             3 drops

Rose geranium    2 drops

Palmarosa           2 drops

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

“64 Tetrahedron Grid”

Slip into the magic of the universe –

Mandarin         4 drops

Lemongrass    2 drops

Vetiver             1 drop

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

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

“Release the Day”

Let go of all things from the day –

Mandarin          10 drops

Cypress              8 drops

Lemongrass       6 drops

Sage                  1 drop

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

“Fun Kids Party”

Mandarin       12 drops

Cinnamon       6 drops

Peru Balsam  7 drops

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

“Meditation and Contemplation”

Scented relaxation –

Mandarin          8 drops

Frankincense   12 drops

Lavender          5 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!

“Life is Easy”

Flow –

Mandarin      1 drop

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

Spikenard     1 drop

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

“Joy”

Appreciate the little things in life –

Mandarin        1 drop

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

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

Mandarin lips! pic via www.beautezine.com

Mandarin lips! pic via http://www.beautezine.com

“Smile and Laugh”

Even if you have to force yourself, smile at someone and the rewards will be great –

Mandarin      1 drop

Rosewood    1 drop

May Chang   1 drop

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

“Chill”

Mandarin           1 drop

Pink Grapefruit   1 drop

Clove                 1 drop

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

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

 

 

10 Recipes with Palmarosa Essential Oil – Cymbopogon martinii

Palmarosa is a scented grass that belongs to the Poaceae family (grasses) and the genus Cymbopgon. It is closely related to lemongrass and citronella and when looking at a picture it’s hard to tell them apart. The essential oil has been known as Indian geranium oil and also Turkish geranium oil “because it was imported into Europe via Turkey and Bulgaria as an adulterant to Otto of Roses” – according to botanical.com “A Modern Herbal”.

It has a green rosey/geranium scent and in Aromatherapy today it is used –

* as a skin moisturiser, with cell regenerating properties. See my article Palmarosa – Soft Skin and Happiness for more info on this gorgeous oil

* to help improve mood (like many essential oils)

* and Salvatore Battaglia claims it may stimulate digestion

Palmarosa is more often used in perfumery and body products as cheaper additional rose/geranium scent.

Palmarosa for oil production pic via www.grammeproducts.com

Palmarosa for oil production pic via http://www.grammeproducts.com

I love using this oil in many kinds of 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”

“Flexibilty”

Flow with the universe –

Palmarosa    3 drops

Orange         3 drops

Ylang Ylang  2 drops

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

“Buzz Off”

An oil blend for outdoors to fend off little biters –

Palmarosa     3 drops

Citronella       2 drops

Lemongrass  2 drops

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

“Lunar”

Look to the sky for inspiration –

Palmarosa     3 drops

Patchouli       2 drops

Mandarin       2 drops

Basil              1 drop

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

“Tra-la-la”

Invite happiness in –

Palmarosa       2 drops

Rosewood       3 drops

Black Spruce   3 drops

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

Wrap it up! pic via hellobeautiful.com

Wrap it up! pic via hellobeautiful.com

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”

“Flower Girl”

A moisturising mask for dry hair –

Palmarosa      3 drops

Lavender        3 drops

Peru Balsam   2 drops

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

“Balance”

For oilier hair –

Palmarosa                    2 drops

Cedarwood Virginian    2 drops

Lemon                         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!)

“Resistance is Futile”

The Borg were right – don’t resist, go with the flow

Palmarosa      10 drops

Cinnamon        5 drops

Marjoram         5 drops

Lime                5 drops

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

“Attention!”

Wake up, pay attention to the signs –

Palmarosa        9 drops

Lemon Myrtle    8 drops

Bergamot          8 drops

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

“Gastronomique”

Stimulate your appetite –

Palmarosa      6 drops

Juniper           6 drops

Orange          12 drops

Cardamom       3 drops

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

“Swish”

Get ya swish on –

Palmarosa           7 drops

Spearmint          10 drops

Fennel                  3 drops

Rose Geranium     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 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

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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10 Recipes with Indian Sandalwood Essential Oil – Santalum album

10!

10!

Following my recent article on Sandalwood, with links to a great series on Indian sandalwood being grown in Australia, I thought I might start a series called “10 Recipes”. I’ll feature a different oil each week with recipes for body oils, face and hair treatments, room scenting, space and aura cleansing and natural perfumes.

Sandalwood and oil - pic via www.fengshuidana.com

Sandalwood and oil – pic via http://www.fengshuidana.com

The traditional sandalwood that we’ve all come to know and love is often referred to as Indian or Mysore Sandalwood as it hails from the subcontinent of India. It is the rich, creamy, deep wood scent that has captivated the world. It is expensive because we have managed to strip India of it’s entire forests (we are very bad), so now it’s being grown in Australia (very good). This new oil grown and produced in Australia is Santalum album, so don’t get it mixed up with Santalum spicatum which is called Australian Sandalwood. Got it?

nourish your skin with oil blends

nourish your skin with oil blends

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”

“Snake”

Feel lithe and grounded –

Sandalwood        2 drops

Orange                3 drops

Rose Geranium    2 drops

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

“Date Night”

Feel a little bit sexier –

Sandalwood    2 drops

Ylang Ylang     1 drop

Bergamot        4 drops

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

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 clarifyng mask. pic via chiclooking.com

2. Face Mask

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

For any skin type use white or pink clay –

Sandalwood       1 drop and leave it at that, sandalwood is strong enough

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

essential oil diffuser

essential oil diffuser

3. Scent Your Space

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

“Buddha Breeze”

Connect to your spiritual energy –

Sandalwood    8 drops

Mandarin         8 drops

Palmarosa       8 drops

Vetiver             1 drop

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

“Boudoir Baby”

Sandalwood      6 drops

Ylang Ylang       4 drops

Bergamot        12 drops

Lemon Myrtle    3 drops

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

“Why Not?”

Garner some courage –

Sandalwood      8 drops

Lemongrass    10 drops

Black Pepper    8 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!

“YEAH!”

Rejoice in life –

Sandalwood    1 drop

Rosewood      1 drop

Black Spruce   1 drop

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

“Yep I’m Awesome”

Get vibing on yourself –

Sandalwood    1 drop

Petitgrain         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

5. 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)

“Alpha Brainwaves”

A meditative energy –

Sandalwood       6 drops

Lemon              12 drops

Lavender            7 drops

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

“Settle Down Kids”

Mist around the kids to help them chill –

Sandalwood      4 drops

Orange            14 drops

Spearmint          7 drops

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

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

copyright suzannerbanks 2013

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

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

Amazon USA      Amazon AU      Amazon UK


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

The Sun – A Tarot Card Reading with Essential Oils

The Sun - XIX from the Rider-Waite Deck

The Sun – XIX from the Rider-Waite Deck

Happy, sunny, cute, fun. How could you not love this card? When this card comes to you in a reading things are looking up, or you are already experiencing the joy and abundance of life! The sun gives strong radiant energy and makes everything seem wonderful. The days the sun is shining seem to be a lot friendlier than when it is obscured, and this energy is the outward energy we can also project to others. Do you know sunny people? They are the ones that are always happy and joyous, and you always feel better when you are around them. It’s the energy of success!

Our beautiful sun - pic via nasa.gov

Our beautiful sun – pic via nasa.gov

Success in this card also refers to our ability to merge both our conscious and subconscious minds, and use this strength to our advantage. It is this very strength that allows us to feel free, happy and abundant. The baby in this card is naked showing there’s nothing to hide when we know ourselves.

The Sun also represents our journey and how far we have come. It is definitely a card of progress through tough times, beyond the grey brick wall that holds our past struggles.

Fun times - pic ia ksoo.com

Fun times – pic via ksoo.com

Maybe this card has popped up in a reading because it’s time to have some fun and regain some childlike qualities that you’ve lost along the way. It’s time to open your heart to the world and have a good belly laugh (naked, on a white horse hahaha)!

There are lots of essential oils you could use to invoke the qualities of this card:

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

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’m Naked”

Loose all inhibitions and laugh!

Mandarin           2 drops

Rose Geranium 1 drop

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

“Kings to Me”

Enjoy your success even if it’s just a little thing –

Ylang Ylang        1 drop

Bergamot           1 drop

Black Spruce      1 drop

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

“Here Comes The Sun”

As The Beatles say – it’s alright!

Ginger             1 drop

Peru Balsam   1 drop

Marjoram         1 drop

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

Scent your space

Scent your space

2. Scent Your Space

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

“Shiny, Shiny”

Get a happy, giggly, fun vibe going –

Orange         10 drops

Palmarosa      5 drops

Lemongrass   5 drops

Geranium       5 drops

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

“Success is Mine”

Summon the courage to manifest good things –

Cedarwood Atlas     8 drops

Lavender                  8 drops

Lemon                     9 drops

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

“Calm Seas”

Believe you are the creator of your success and that it doesn’t have to be difficult –

Sandalwood Indian    6 drops

Sage                         6 drops

Petitgrain                 10 drops

Lime                          3 drops

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

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

The High Priestess – A Tarot Card reading with Essential Oils

The High Priestess - II from the Rider-Waite Deck

The High Priestess – II from the Rider-Waite Deck

Listen to your inner voice.

Trust your intuition.

Allow the thin veil of illusion (maya) to fall away between your conscious and subconscious mind.

The High Priestess is the bold feminine, intuitive energy of the major arcana in the tarot. She is a the one who is connected to her emotions and the power of the moon and the invisible cycles. She is calm, contained, and her deep wisdom shines through. She is supported by the twin pillars of Boaz and Jachin, from Solomons Temple (a very long and interesting story there). The pomegranates also appeared on the twin pillars and are adorning the curtain behind the priestess. They represent possibility, sexuality and according to Biddy Tarot, duty.

The High Priestess is about the dark feminine knowledge, the witch, the power of psychic forces and the wisdom of the ages. She is the gateway to the underworld. She is the all-knowing feminine power.

Feminine power - pic via www.beliefnet.com -  by Julie Loar

Feminine power – pic via http://www.beliefnet.com
by Julie Loar

 

When The High Priestess shows up in a reading she may be asking you to recall ancient wisdom to help you on your present journey. You may need to take a break from the madness of everyday life, be calm and meditate.

You are wise, but at this time you may need to pay attention to your inner world more than your external world. It’s time to develop your intuition and rely on yourself.

Are you looking for a deeper meaning in your life? Maybe you have a new interest in philosophy and metaphysics? The High Priestess will help you with her knowledge of the collective unconscious.

Rely on, and develop your intuition (from curvyoga.com)

Rely on, and develop your intuition (from curvyoga.com)

 

What essential oils could help you look within?

1. Scent Your Space

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

“Sacred Space”

Create a beautiful space to meditate in –

Frankincense         10 drops

Rose Geranium        8 drops

Lime                        6 drops

Spikenard                1 drop

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

“Retreat”   

Have a break from the outside world –

Juniper               10 drops

Fennel                  6 drops

Mandarin              9 drops

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

“Dreams”

Allow your dreams to point the way –

Clary Sage            5 drops

Peru Balsam        10 drops

Nutmeg                5 drops

Lavender             5 drops

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

Anoint yourself with pure essential oils

Anoint yourself with 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!

“Psychic River”

Open your psychic channels – anoint your third eye chakra

Basil                1 drop

Frankincense   1 drop

Bergamot        1 drop

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

“Speak the Truth”

Let your knowledge flow – anoint your throat chakra –

Sage          1 drop

Myrrh         1 drop

Geranium   1 drop

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

“The Heart Knows”

Rely on your intuition which may speak through your heart –

Rosewood     1 drop

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

Patchouli        1 drop

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

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

copyright suzannerbanks 2013