"Back to Basics" - Top Ten Single Oils - Frankincense

Today is day five of my "Back to Basics" series.

Frankincense in my homemade lotion

Frankincense

This truly is the KING of oils. Frankincense, or Boswellia essential oil, is extracted from the resin (dried sap) of boswellia plants found in the Middle East, India, and North Africa. The main chemical components of Frankincense are alpha pinene, limonene, and alpha thujene. Frankincense is an ancient oil and for centuries has been used during religious ceremonies and in salves to soothe skin. Frankincense supports cellular function*, promotes feeling of relaxation, and improves appearance of skin.

The most common uses of Frankincense are diffusing in the air to promote focus and relaxation, adding to moisturizer to reduce skin imperfections, apply to fingernails to maintain a healthy appearance, and taken internally to support healthy cellular function*. Check out The Truth About Cancer's article below to also learn about the cancer fighting potential of Frankincense. There are also multiple research references below that prove Frankincense's cancer fighter potential!

My favorite way to use Frankincense is in my homemade body lotion (see Dr. Axe's recipe below). I also love diffusing Frankincense because it has a warm and spicy fragrance.

boswellia resin

Links:
doTERRA Science Blog: "Chemistry of Frankincense Essential Oil"
doTERRA Product Page: Frankincense
The Truth About Cancer Article: "Frankincense and Cancer: What you need to know about this essential oil"
Dr. Axe Frankincense body lotion recipe
Buy Frankincense here
doTERRA Product Video: Frankincense



Research:

Aroma Tools. (2015). Modern essentials: A contemporary guide to the therapeutic use of essential oils (7th ed.). Pleasant Grove, UT: AromaTools.

Bhushan, S., Kumar, A., Malik, F., Andotra, S. S., Sethi, V. K., Kaur, I. P., Taneja, S. C., Qazi, G. N., & Singh, J. (2007). A triterpenediol, from Boswellia serrata induces apoptosis through both the intrinsic and extrinsic apoptotic pathways in human leukemia HL-60 cells. Apoptosis, 12(10), 1911 - 1926. doi:10.1007/s10495-007-0105-5

Falk, A. A., Hagberg, M. T., Löf, A. E., Wigaeus-Hjelm, E. M., & Wang, Z. P. (1990). Uptake, distribution, and elimination of alpha-pinene in man after exposure by inhalation. Scandinavian Journal of Work, Environment & Health, 16(5), 372 - 378. Retrieved from http://www.jstor.org/stable/40965820

Levin, J.O., Erikssom, K., Falk, A., & Lof, A. (1992). Renal elimination of verbenols in man following experimental alpha-pinene inhalation exposure. International Archives of Occupational and Environmental Health, 63(8), 571 - 573. doi:10.1007/BF00386348

Strappaghettic, G., Corsano S., Craveiro, A., & Proietti, G. (1982). Constituents of essential oil of Boswellia frereana. Phytochemistry, 21(8), 2114 - 2115. doi:10.1016/0031-9422(82)83057-4

Zhang, X., Zhang, Y., & Li, Y. (2013). Beta elements decreases cell invasion by upregulation E-cadherin expression in MCF-7 human breast cancer cells. Oncology Reports, 30(2), 745 - 750. doi:10.3892/or.2013.2519

Zou, B., Li, Q. Q., Zhao, J., Li, J. M., Cuff, C. F., & Reed, E. (2013). Beta-Elemene and taxanes synergisitcally induce cytotoxicity and inhibit proliferation in ovarian cancer and other tumor cells. Anticancer Research, 33(3), 929 - 940. Retrieved from http://ar.iiarjournals.org/content/33/3/929.short

CAUTIONS: Possible skin sensitivity. Keep out of reach of children. If you are pregnant, nursing, or under a doctor’s care, consult your physician. Avoid contact with eyes, inner ears, and sensitive areas. 
* These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

"Back to Basics" - Top Ten Single Oils - Melaleuca (Tea Tree Oil)

Today is day four of my series "Back to Basics".



Melaleuca

Tea Tree oil (Melaleuca), also known as Melaleuca alternifolia, is extracted from the leaves of tea tree plants through steam distillation. These plants are native to Australia. The main chemical components of melaleuca are gamma terpinene and terpinen-4-ol, but this oil has over 90 different compounds which makes it one of the most versatile single oils. For centuries, Australians would crush the leaves and use the oils to clear respiratory ways and apply directly to the skin for a cooling effect.

terpinen-4-ol

gamma terpinene

Primarily, this oil's benefits include cleansing and soothing skin and nails*, promoting a healthy immune system*, and providing protection from environmental and seasonal threats*. Tea tree oil is best known for its antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral properties. Melaleuca is commonly used internally (in empty veggie capsules) to help support immune system function*, in facial cleansers to treat/prevent acne and soothe irritated skin*, on nails to treat fungal infections*, and in spray bottles for household cleaners.

In our home Melaleuca is our "first aid" oil. We use it as an antispetic for wounds by mixing one drop with a teaspoon to tablespoon of coconut oil and applying to the wound to prevent infection*. It is also well-known for its antifungal properties and we have used it to treat nail fungus*. My dad picked up a nail fungus while in the Middle East during the first Gulf War and we have used this and Oregano to help treat it*. We have also successfully treated pink eye (conjunctivitis) and ear infections with tea tree oil*.

Melaleuca can be used aromatically, topically, and internally and though it can be applied neat (no dilution) I recommend always diluting if you apply anywhere on your face. If you use essential oils on little kids, you should ALWAYS dilute.

tea tree branch

Links:
doTERRA Product Page: Melaleuca
doTERRA Product Video: Melaleuca
Buy Melaleuca here

Research:

Aroma Tools. (2015). Modern essentials: A contemporary guide to the therapeutic use of essential oils (7th ed.). Pleasant Grove, UT: AromaTools.

Keszei, A., Brubaker, C. L., Köllner, T., Degenhardt, J., & Foley, W. J. (2010). Functional and evolutionary relationships between terpene synthases from Australian Myrtaceae. Phytochemistry, 71(8), 844 - 852.doi:10.1016/j.phytochem.2010.03.013

Keszei, A., Hassan, Y., & Foley, W. J. (2010). A biochemical interpretation of terpene chemotypes in Melaleuca alternifolia. Journal of Chemical Ecology, 36(6), 652 - 661. doi:10.1007/s10886-010-9798-y

Kondoh, T., Yamada, S., Shioda, S., & Torii, K. (2005). Central olfactory pathway in response to olfactory stimulation in rats detected by magnetic resonance imaging.Chemical Senses, 2(30 Supplement 1), 172 173. doi:10.1093/chemse/bjh169

CAUTIONS: Possible skin sensitivity. Keep out of reach of children. If you are pregnant, nursing, or under a doctor’s care, consult your physician. Avoid contact with eyes, inner ears, and sensitive areas. 

* These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

"Back to Basics" - Top Ten Single Oils - Peppermint

Today is day three of my series "Back to Basics".



Peppermint

Peppermint oil, also known as Mentha piperita, is extracted from the whole plant through steam distillation and is indigenously grown in Washington state. Peppermint plants are actually a natural hybrid of watermint and spearmint plants. The main chemical component is menthol, which has the ability to trigger cold receptors in the skin giving you a cooling sensation.

Menthol

The primary benefits of peppermint oil include promoting healthy respiratory function*, digestive health*, and a bug repellent. You can Google "peppermint oil repels spiders" and you will find many testimonies about how peppermint oil keeps spiders out of people's homes. I have yet to find any legitimate article that explains why this is the case, but people say it works.

The most common uses for peppermint oil are making toothpaste (my favorite), adding to a smoothie, coffee, or hot chocolate, and inhaling the aroma for a mid-day pick me up. The high level of menthol in peppermint oil can act as a stimulate and refresh your mind when you are mentally exhausted*.

Peppermint Leaf

My favorite way to use peppermint oil is in my homemade toothpaste recipe, which can be found in a previous blog post from September 2015 called "Healing Tooth Decay Naturally (And a toothpaste recipe)." I also love diffusing peppermint and wild orange together as a mid-day, mental pick me up. When I was working on my Master's degree that combination got me through those LONG, BORING reads that you have to do sometimes when in school.

Peppermint can be used aromatically, topically, and internally and it is gentle enough to be used neat (not diluted). If you use essential oils on little kids, you should ALWAYS dilute.

Links:

EO Spotlight: Peppermint

doTERRA Product Page: Peppermint

Buy Peppermint here

Research:

Cruz, A. B., Lee, S. E., Pagaduan, J. C., & Kim, T. H. (2011) Effects of lavender (lavandula angustifolia Mill.) and peppermint (Mentha cordifolia Opiz.) aromas on subjective viatility speed and agility. Asia Life Science-The Asian International Journal of Life Sciences, 21 (1), 31 - 37. http://journals.uplb.edu.ph/index.php/ALS/index

Kondoh, T., Yamada, S., Shioda, S., & Torii, K. (2005). Central olfactory pathway in response to olfactory stimulation in rats detected by magnetic resonance imaging. Chemical Senses, 2(30 Supplement 1), 172 173. doi:10.1093/chemse/bjh169

Norrish, M. I. K., & Dwyer, K. L. (2005). Preliminary investigation of the effect of peppermint oil on an objective measure of daytime sleepiness. International Journal of Psychology, 55(3), 291 - 298. doi:10.1016/j.ijpsycho.2004.08.004

Rajaonarivony, J. I. M. Gershenzon, J., & Croteau, R. (1992). Characterization and mechanism of (4S)-limonene synthase, A monoterpene cyclase from the glandular trichomes of peppermint (Mentha x piperita). Archives of Biochemistry and Biophysics, 296(1), 49 - 57. doi:10.1016/0003-9861(92)90543-6

Rios-Estepa, R., Turner G. W., Lee, J. M., Croteau, R. B., & Lange, B.M. (2008). A systems biology approach identifies the biochemical mechanisms regulation monoterpenoid essential oil composition in peppermint. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, 105(8), 2818 - 2823. doi:10.1073pnas.0712314105

Satoh, T., & Sugawara, Y. (2003). Effects on human elicited by inhaling the fragrance of essential oils: Sensory test, multi-channel thermometric study and forehead surface potential wave measurement on basil and peppermint. Analytical Sciences, 19(1), 139 - 146. doi:10.2116/analsci.19.139

CAUTIONS: Possible skin sensitivity. Keep out of reach of children. If you are pregnant, nursing, or under a doctor’s care, consult your physician. Avoid contact with eyes, inner ears, and sensitive areas.

* These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

"Back to Basics" - Top Ten Single Oils - Lavender

Today is day two of my new series, "Back to Basics".

Lavender, the "monster repellent" 

Lavender

Lavender oil, also know as Lavandula angustifolia, is extracted from the flower of the plant through the steam distillation extraction method. The main chemical components are Linalool and linalyl acetate.

linalyl acetate

doTERRA's science blog has published multiple articles involving linalool, which is found in other essential oils such as basil, cilantro, coriander, and clary sage. The results of many of these studies show that linalool has the ability to relax blood vessel (important for cardiovascular health)*, reduce feelings of depression*, and positively change the genes in our immune system.* Check out the article links below for more information.

Lavender is an ancient plant that was used as a perfume and for bathing by Romans and Egyptians. It's primary benefits include soothing skin irritations, promoting sleep*, and easing feelings of tension and anxiety*. 

linalool

My favorite way to use lavender is in a diffuser. Just the smell of lavender helps to calm and relax anyone in my family*. You can also place a few drops on your pillow and your big toes before bed to help reduce anxiety* and promote restful sleep. I also fill a 16oz glass bottle and add 30 drops of lavender oil to create an air freshener that can be used in my closet, car, or as "monster repellent" for my kids. :)

Like lemon oil, lavender can be used aromatically, topically, and internally and it is gentle enough to be used neat (not diluted). If you use essential oils on little kids, you should ALWAYS dilute.

Lavender

Links:

doTERRA Science Blog: Linalool may bring about relaxation of blood vessel

doTERRA Science Blog: Reduce sad feelings with linalool and beta-pinene

doTERRA Science Blog: Lavender and the Immune System
Lavender product information page
Buy glass bottle for "monster repellent" here
Buy Lavender here

Research:

Cruz, A.B., Lee, S.E., Pagaduan, J.C., & Kim, T.H. (2001). Effects of lavender (Lavandula angustifolia Mill.) and peppermint (Mentha   cordifolia Opiz.) aromas on subjective vitality, speed and agility. Asia Life Sciences-The Asian International Journal of Life Sciences, 21(1), 31 - 37. Retrieved from http://journals.uplb.edu.ph/index.php/ALS/index

Knasko, S. C. (1992). Ambient odor's effect on creativity, mood, and perceived health. Chemical Senses, 17(1), 27 - 35. doi:10.1093/chemse/17.1.27

Kondoh, T., Yamada, S., Shioda, S., & Torii, K. (2005). Central olfactory pathway in response to olfactory stimulation in rats detected by magnetic resonance imaging. Chemical Senses, 2(30 Supplement 1), 172 173. doi:10.1093/chemse/bjh169

Lane, A., Boecklemann, A., Woronuk, G.N., Sarker, L., & Mahmoud, S.S. (2010). A genomics resource for investigation regulation of   essential oil production in Lavandula angustifolia. Planta, 231(4), 835 - 845. doi:10.1007/s00425-009-1090-4

Raguso, R.A., & Pichersky, E.. (1999). New Perspectives in pollination biology: Floral fragrances. A day in the life of a linalool   molecule: Chemical communication in a plant-pollinator system. Part 1: Linalool biosynthesis in flowering plants. Plant Species Biology, 14(2), 95 - 120. doi:10.1046/j.1442-1984.1999.00014.x

CAUTIONS: Possible skin sensitivity. Keep out of reach of children. If you are pregnant, nursing, or under a doctor’s care, consult your physician. Avoid contact with eyes, inner ears, and sensitive areas. 

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

"Back to Basics" - Top Ten Single Oils - Lemon

Today is the first day of a new series I am doing, called "Back to Basics". The first category of this series is about the Top Ten Single Oils. I will go into detail about each of these oils including their chemical makeups, the scientific name of the plant that the oil comes from, the most common ways the oil are used, and my favorite way to use the oils.

Lemon

Lemon oil, as known as Citrus Limon, is extracted from lemon rinds through the cold press extraction method. The main chemical components of lemon oil are Limonene, beta pinenes, and gamma terpinenes. 

limonene

beta pinene

gamma terpinene

Lemon rind

Lemon oil's primary benefits include cleansing and purifies the air and surfaces, naturally cleansing the body and aids in digestion*, supporting healthy respiratory function*, and promoting a positive mood. The most common uses for lemon oil are creating homemade cleaning supplies, internal detox*, and diffusing for mood elevation.

Lemon is an oil that I use in my house every day. I have made an all-purpose cleaning spray and floor cleaner with this oil (recipe to follow). Also, if I cook a meal, such as chili, that can a strong, lingering odor, I love diffusing this oil in the kitchen to clean and purify the air. Lemon oil can be used aromatically, topically, and internally. It is generally a gentle oil and therefore does not need to be diluted unless you have sensitive skin or are using this oil on small children. Always dilute ANY oil when using a children.

Here is one of my favorite cleaning supply recipes:

All-purpose Cleaner:

- 1/4 cup distilled white vinegar

- 1 3/4 cup water

- 30 drops lemon oil

Mix all ingredients in a glass spray bottle, which you can buy here. It absolutely has to be a glass bottle because the oils can actually leach chemicals from plastic bottles, which defeats the purpose of having natural ingredients in it.

Links:
Lemon Oil Product Information Page
YouTube Video: doTERRA Lemon Oil
Buy Essential Oils Here

Research:

Dornelas, M. C., & Massafera, P. (2007). A genomic approach to characterization of the Citrus terpene synthase gene family. Genetics and Molecular Biology, 30(3), 832 - 840. doi:10.1590/S1415-4757200700005000011

Knasko, S. C. (1992). Ambient odor's effect on creativity, mood, and perceived health. Chemical Senses, 17(1), 27 - 35. doi:10.1093/chemse/17.1.27

Lücker, J., El Tamer, M. K., Schwab, W., Verstappen, F. W. A., van der Plas, L. H. W., Bouwmeester, H. J., & Verhoeven, H. A. (2002). Monoterpene biosynthesis in lemon (Citrus limon): cDNA isolation and functional analysis of four menonterpene synthases. European Journal of Biochemistry, 269(13), 3160 - 3171. doi:10.1046/j.1432-1033.2002.02985.x

Valgimigli, L., Gabbanini, S., Berlini, E., Lucchi, E., Beltramini, C., &  Bertarelli, Y. L. (2012). Lemon (Citrus limon, Burmf.) essential oil enhances the trans-epidermal release of lipid-(A, E) and water-(B6, C) soluble vitamins from topical emulsions in reconstructed human epidermis. International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 34(4), 347 - 356. doi:10.111/j.1468-2494.2012.00725.x

Zhang, Z., Chen, H., Chan, K. K., Budd, T., & Ganapathi, R. (1999). Gas chromatographic-mass spectrometric analysis of perillyl alcohol and metabolites in plasma. Journal of Chromatography B: Biomedical Sciences and Applications, 728(1), 85 -95. doi:10.1016/S0378-4347(99)00065-1

CAUTIONS: Possible skin sensitivity. Keep out of reach of children. If you are pregnant, nursing, or under a doctor’s care, consult your physician. Avoid contact with eyes, inner ears, and sensitive areas. Avoid sunlight or UV rays for up to 12 hours after applying product.

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.