10 Recipes with Lemongrass Essential Oil- Cymbopogon citratus

Posted on April 23, 2014 by suzannerbanks

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

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

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

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

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

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.

10 Recipes with Mandarin Essential Oil – Citrus reticulata

Posted on April 2, 2014 by suzannerbanks

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

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!

**** 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

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

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 Juniper Essential Oil – Juniperus communis

Posted on March 26, 2014 by suzannerbanks

Juniper berries - pic via www.thedrinksbusiness.com

Juniper berries – pic via http://www.thedrinksbusiness.com

Juniper essential oil is one of my favourites! I go through periods of needing to use it a lot. It has a clean fresh scent, with spicey undertones and conveys a sense of lightness and freedom. The essential oil is steam distilled from the berries and most people know it as the main flavouring in gin.

Juniper comes from the cypress family, Cupressaceae and the genus Juniperus which contains many species from all over the world. The essential oil is high in a-pinene (anti-inflammatory and broncho-dialator) and sabinene. For more info see my previous article on juniper here.

I use juniper in my practice when someone is overwhelmed with emotion or is needing (or wanting) to clean out their life and start afresh. It is a great oil to help release watery emotions and to energetically cleanse a space.

sprawling juniper bush

In Aromatherapy today it is used –

* as a diuretic

* as a treatment in a sitz bath for urinary tract infections

* for acne

* to stimulate digestion

Try these 10 recipes –

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

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!)

“Begone Bad Stuff”

A little purse pack of cleansing energy –

Juniper 9 drops

Orange 12 drops

Geranium 4 drops

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

“Light On My Feet”

Put a spring in your step –

Juniper 8 drops

Mandarin 6 drops

Rosewood 6 drops

Cinnamon 5 drops

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

“Bubble of Love”

Surround yourself with good vibes –

Juniper 6 drops

Ylang Ylang 4 drops

Bergamot 10 drops

Peru Balsam 4 drops

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

“Feather”

Float with the universe –

Juniper 8 drops

Fennel 3 drops

Lime 8 drops

Sandalwood Australian 4 drops

Nutmeg 2 drops

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

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

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!

“Evaporate”

Let your concerns evaporate –

Juniper 1 drop

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

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

“Create Space”

.. to be creative –

Juniper 1 drop

Pink grapefruit 2 drops

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

“Refresh”

Refresh your mind –

Juniper 2 drops

Basil 1 drop

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

“Accept”

Don’t fight it –

Juniper 1 drop

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

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

Green clay face mask - pic via www.wholisticresearch.com

Green clay face mask – pic via http://www.wholisticresearch.com

3. Face Mask

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

Juniper 2 drops in green clay to soothe and tone acne skin

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

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.

***** 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”

“Pick-Me-Up”

Give your body a buzz in the morning –

Juniper 2 drops

Eucalyptus 1 drop

Grapefruit 2 drops

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

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

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

10 Recipes with Palmarosa Essential Oil – Cymbopogon martinii

Posted on March 12, 2014 by suzannerbanks

Palmarosa - pic via www.les-medecines-douces.fr

Palmarosa – pic via http://www.les-medecines-douces.fr

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

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

3. Personal Aura Cleansing Mist & Room Mist

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

“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.

10 Recipes with Patchouli Essential Oil – Pogostemon cablin

Posted on February 26, 2014 by suzannerbanks

Patchouli leaf - pic via www.vanaroma.com

Patchouli leaf – pic via http://www.vanaroma.com

Patchouli is a herb from the Lamiacae family (along with lavender, peppermint, marjoram and may other herbs), and the genus Pogostemon. It is a beautiful oil, and the scent is quite deep, earthy and dark, and perhaps an oil that you wouldn’t necessarily use on its own. It is great oil to blend with others, but you do need to get the proportions right.

I was stimulated to write this as one of my blog followers has started getting into oils and was quite surprised when she opened her first bottle of patchouli. She described it as musty which I think is quite apt – but don’t let that put you off. Patchouli’s strength is in its ability to bring a blend together as it is regarded as a base oil. If you have made a very light blend with essential oils of a simple molecular structure (like citrus oils), you may notice they evaporate quite quickly and “fly away”. A few drops of patchouli will round-out the blend and keep it closer to the earth.

Patchouli is a grounding herb which relates to the base and second chakra, and it is connected to the hippie movement of the sixties. Please see my article “World Peace, Hippies, Patchouli Oil and The Evolution of Human Consciousness” for more on patchouli and how it relates to the world in general.

It is an oil that is often used for skin disorders such as psoriasis, dermatitis and eczema. It also has skin regenerating properties so it’s great for use in face and body products too.

So let’s check out some recipes –

Chinese tea cup – perfect for a little perfume magic

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 am Connected”

When your head is in the clouds and you need to feel belonging –

Patchouli 1 drop

Rosewood 1 drop

Lemongrass 1 drop

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

“Compassion”

The world needs your kindness and compassion –

Patchouli 1 drop

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

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

“(I’m Gonna Get) Get Sexy On Ya”

yep ……

Patchouli 1 drop

Ylang Ylang 1 drop

Orange 1 drop

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

“Deep Sleep”

Sometimes you need a little help –

Patchouli 1 drop

Lavender 1 drop

Marjoram 1 drop

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

“A Quiet Night with A Good Book”

Take some time out –

Patchouli 1 drop

Basil 1 drop

Petitgrain 1 drop

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

I love 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

“Party, Dance”

Set the mood for a dance-off –

Rosewood 8 drops

Geranium 6 drops

Mandarin 7 drops

Patchouli 4 drops

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

“Meeting of the Minds”

When you’re a bit nervous about meeting someone –

Cedarwood Virginian 6 drops

Lemon 12 drops

Lime 6 drops

Patchouli 3 drops

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

“Need.To.Stop.Procrastinating”

Bergamot 10 drops

Rosemary 4 drops

Juniper 6 drops

Patchouli 5 drops

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

nourish your skin with oil blends

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”

“Lovin Myself Sick Today”

You are wonderful –

Patchouli 2 drops

Lavender 3 drops

Bergamot 3 drops

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

“Soft Supple Skin”

Peru Balsam 3 drops

Palmarosa 3 drops

Patchouli 2 drops

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

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

Cedarwood Virginiana Has a Secret!

Posted on February 24, 2014 by suzannerbanks

Cedarwood virginiana – pic via botany.csdl.tamu.edu

Cedarwood Virginiana has a secret – it’s a juniper tree! It’s botanical name is Juniperus virginiana but in Aromatherapy today it’s referred to as a cedarwood. I’ve always seen this tree and oil referred to as cedarwood and perhaps it’s because this native to North America is commonly called Red Cedar and/or Aromatic cedar, and a few other names too! It is from the Cupressacae family and the Juniperus genus whereas Cedarwood Atlas (Cedrus atlantica), for example, is from the Pinacae family and the Cedrus genus. Himalayan cedarwood (Cedrus deodora) is from the Pinacae family and the Cedrus genus too.

So back to our Cedarwood Virginiana. You can see by the pic above it has berries like a juniper tree, and leaves like a cypress, but the oil is very different from juniper essential oil and cypress essential oil. This essential oil is thick and creamy and smells like it could easily come from a wood, but also carries a very cleansing energy about it like juniper. I think in my very early days of aromatherapy I blended this oil like it was a basey wood and was never disappointed with the results. I’ve even read a description of the scent of this oil as “pencil- like” and it is also referred to as a pencil cedar , as the heartwood has been used to make lead pencils.

Eastern Red Cedar pic via www.realchristmastrees.org

Eastern Red Cedar pic via http://www.realchristmastrees.org

In Native American medicine this common tree has been used for respiratory infections and other ailments including arthritis and rheumatism, skin disorders and as a treatments for venereal infections (according to Salvatore Battaglia).

In Aromatherapy today Cedarwood Virginiana is used –

* as a treatment for oily and acne skin

* as a treatment for other skin conditions like psoriasis and dermatitis

* as a soothing treatment for coughs and colds and as an expectorant

* to induce more spiritual connectedness

* as a space/energy cleanser

I’ve always loved using this oil so check out some simple recipes –

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

“Psychic Awareness”

Open your upper chakras –

Cedarwood Virginiana 2 drops

Mandarin 1 drop

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

“A New Start”

Cleanse and refresh you attitude –

Cedarwood Virginiana 1 drop

Lemon 1 drop

Rose Geranium 1 drop

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

“And… Breathe!”

Take a quite moment for yourself –

Cedarwood Virginiana 1 drop

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

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

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”

“Classic”

This is my go-to classic body oil blend –

Cedarwood Virginiana 2 drops

Orange 4 drops

Lavender 2 drops

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

“Give Me Strength”

A warming blend for courage and physical strength –

Cedarwood Virginiana 2 drops

Bergamot 3 drops

Rosewood 3 drops

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

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

10 Recipes with Bergamot Essential Oil – Citrus bergamia

Posted on February 19, 2014 by suzannerbanks

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

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

2. Personal Aura Cleansing Mist & Room Mist

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

“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

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

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.

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

Posted on February 3, 2014 by suzannerbanks

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

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, 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

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

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“Get Ready…”

Warm up for the big race this year –

Basil 5 drops

Orange 10 drops

Rosewood 10 drops

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“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.

Lemon Myrtle Essential Oil – Lemony Goodness from Australia

Posted on January 29, 2014 by suzannerbanks

Lovely lemon myrtle an Australian native – pic via essentiallyaustralia.com.au

The lovely lemon myrtle tree (Backhousia citriodora) is a native to Australia and the leaves are used for food flavourings, as a tea, and are processed as an essential oil for our pleasure. If you’ve never smelt this powerful oil just imagine a crisp lemon scent with a deep twist of the Australian bush – a magical blend of lemon and other Aussie leaves like eucalyptus and tea tree. It belongs to the Myrtaceae family, and the genus Backhousia. This is not to be confused with Myrtle which is also a part of the Myrtaceae family but has the genus Myrtus which is native to Europe. If you read about myrtle, it is likely to refer to this Myrtus communis.

This essential oil has a high citral content. Citral is the active ingredient which gives this and other oils their lemon scent, and it’s very interesting to note the amount of citral in a few essential oils:

Citral is present in the oils of several plants, including lemon myrtle (90-98%),

Litsea citrata (90%),

Litsea cubeba (70-85%),

lemongrass (65-85%),

lemon tea-tree (70-80%),

Ocimum gratissimum (66.5%),

Lindera citriodora (about 65%),

Calypranthes parriculata (about 62%),

petitgrain (36%),

lemon verbena (30-35%),

lemon ironbark (26%),

lemon balm (11%),

lime (6-9%),

lemon (2-5%), and orange.

Wikipedia

So isn’t it interesting that lemon only contains about 5% and this amazing lemon myrtle contains almost 100% citral! Wowsa!

So what does that mean?

In addition to the lemon scent, citral has been reported to have extremely high anti-microbial qualities and compared to tea tree seems to be much higher. The oil today is used just for this purpose and is particularly noted for it’s tested use on MCV which is a skin virus. Lemon myrtle essential oil is also used on cold sores, which are also a virus (herpes) so it stands to reason that this oil is very potent.

You could also use lemon myrtle oil as an inhalation for colds and flu and as a treatment for anxiety and depression (as many other lemon scented oils can be used for similar issues). It’s also great for cleaning because of it’s strong anti-bacterial action.

Dried lemon myrtle leaves - pic via www.abc.net.au

Dried lemon myrtle leaves – pic via http://www.abc.net.au

The lemon myrtle leaves have a history with the indigenous people of Australia, as the plant has been used as a flavouring and a medicine for many, many years. Today the leaves are also just dried and crushed to be used in foods and as a tea, and represent a particular group of foods and flavours only found in Australia.

I use this oil sparingly in my practice and it seems to jump out when someone is plagued by stress and really needs to detoxify their emotions. It works well in a perfume but you need to be careful about using too much in a body oil blend as it can be sensitising.

Check out a couple of simple recipes:

Anoint yourself with pure essential oil blends

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!

“Start Anew”

Get rid of all the old stale emotions and energy –

Lemon Myrtle 1 drop

Juniper 1 drop

Orange 1 drop

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

5. Scent Your Space

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

“Dark Energy Be Gone!”

Lemon Myrtle 10 drops

Patchouli 5 drops

Cedarwood Virginian 5 drops

Rosewood 5 drops

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

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

Expand Your Consciousness with 10 Natural Pulse Point Perfumes

Posted on January 13, 2014 by suzannerbanks

Anoint yourself with pure essential oil blends

If you’ve been with me the past couple of weeks I’ve been talking about 2014 being a year in which we are called to seek the truth and expand our consciousness. This will not only help you evolve and grow but in turn will send your ripples out into the universe to join with others in the necessary and imminent jump in consciousness for humanity. Look I know it may sound heavy to newcomers of the revolution but it’s easy really – just be mindful of your purchases and know where all your food comes from, be kind to people and animals, voice your opinion and champion the cause of the underdog, stand up for the planet and use essential oils.

One of the easiest ways to use essential oils is to make a little perfume to dab on your wrists (to sniff during the day), your heart (open to the love), your third eye chakra (see the truth) and anywhere else you fancy.

Chinese tea cup – perfect for a little perfume magic

Pure Pulse Point Perfume

In a little dish mix essential oils and anoint your pulse points or chakras. Use 3 drops of essential oils and dilute with a few drops of carrier oil (almond, sunflower, grapeseed, jojoba) – always patch test first!

Here are a few recipes to make a quick difference in your life –

“I Once Was a River”

Flow with the space-time continuum –

Cardamom 1 drop

Rosewood 1 drop

Lemongrass 1 drop

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“Tiger’s Eye”

See clearly and try to be objective –

Frankincense 1 drop

Clary Sage 1 drop

Orange 1 drop

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

“I’m Lovin’ Myself Sick”

Love yourself, it just gets better when you do –

Rose 3% – use it straight from the bottle

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

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

“No More Nervous Nelly”

Reduce the amount of cortisol in your body by chilling out and stressing less –

Neroli 3% – use it straight from the bottle

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

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

we are one

“Meditate More”

Says it all really –

Lavender 1 drop

Mandarin 1 drop

Vetiver 1 drop

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

“Intergalactic”

The truth is out there (it’s in here too) –

Basil 1 drop

Petitgrain 1 drop

Juniper 1 drop

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

“The Black Peal” pic via crystalinks.com

“Seek”

You are the seeker – what will you find? –

Sage 1 drop

Lime 2 drops

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“Macro to Micro”

We are a star, an ocean, the wind …….

Sandalwood Mysore 1 drop

Lemon 2 drops

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accept everything good

“Amazing Opportunities are Coming My Way”

It’s all about pure potentiality –

Petitgrain 2 drops

Cedarwood Virginian 1 drop

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

“Lions and Tigers and Bears”

Be courageous –

Black pepper 1 drop

Black Spruce 1 drop

Palmarosa 1 drop

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

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

suzannerbanks

scent . intention . consciousness . essential oils

Tag Archives: rosewood essential oil

10 Recipes with Lemongrass Essential Oil- Cymbopogon citratus

10 Recipes with Mandarin Essential Oil – Citrus reticulata

10 Recipes with Juniper Essential Oil – Juniperus communis

10 Recipes with Palmarosa Essential Oil – Cymbopogon martinii

10 Recipes with Patchouli Essential Oil – Pogostemon cablin

Cedarwood Virginiana Has a Secret!

10 Recipes with Bergamot Essential Oil – Citrus bergamia

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

Lemon Myrtle Essential Oil – Lemony Goodness from Australia

Expand Your Consciousness with 10 Natural Pulse Point Perfumes

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