Essential Oils, Outdoor Summer Activities, and That Swim Suit Body! :/

As the weather gets warmer we will all be spending more time outdoors, which also means we will be exposed to more seasonal threats, bugs, and physical activity. I know for my family, summer time means we will be hiking, camping, swimming, playing sports together, cooking out, and relaxing at the lake. Here are a few suggestions for doTERRA products and essential oils that you can use throughout the summer.

TriEase Seasonal Blend: This is a blend of lavender, lemon, and peppermint in softgel form that is specifically designed to help protect you against seasonal environmental threats.* It will help to maintain clear breathing and a healthy immune system.*

DigestZen Softgel and/or Essential Oil: This is another blend that contains ginger, peppermint, caraway, coriander, anise, tarragon, and fennel. Each of these oils alone can help to aid digestion or ease occasional motion sicking, indigestion, bloating, and/or gas, but combined together, this blend is a powerful "tummy tamer".*

TerraShield: This blend has been scientifically proven to repel insects more effectively than other synthetics insect repellents. The oils in this blend are ylang ylang, nootka wood, cedarwood, catnip, lemon eucalyptus, litsea fruit, arborvitae oil as well as vanilla, franctionated coconut oil, and tamanu seed oil. A MUST HAVE for late night, outdoor activities.

Deep Blue Rub: Apply this blend on feet, knees, shoulders, back, or any other muscles or joint areas that are prone to soreness both before and after activities. This blend helps to soothe sore muscles and joints by providing a cooling then warming sensation. It is also non-greasy and does not have an unpleasant, long lasting scent like other rubs in the industry. It contains wintergreen, camphor, peppermint, blue tansy, German chamomile, helichrysum, osmanthus.

Slim & Sassy product line: Are you ready to show off that summer body?! :/ Ya me either...The Slim & Sassy line is designed to help provide the body with essential oils and nutrients that help manage weight, boost metabolism, and curb cravings.

There are many elements to this product line:

1. Slim & Sassy (Metabolic) Blend (essential oil): this is a blend of grapefruit, lemon, peppermint, ginger root, and cinnamon bark.

2. Trim Shakes: A healthy, low-fat, low-sodium, low-calories, sugar-free, high-fiber snack for those trying to lose weight or maintain lean mass. Helps to manage the release of stress hormones that contribute to the accumulation of excess fat and curbs emotional eating. This product also helps to support blood sugar levels, enhance energy, and reduce fatigue associated with diet and exercise.

3. Slim & Sassy Control powder mix and snack bar: These are healthy snack that help manage appetite.

Just look at the success stories here!





A great way to get started with the Slim & Sassy weight loss program is by purchasing the doTERRA New You Kit, which includes four bottles of Slim & Sassy essential oil blend, Slim & Sassy Trim Shakes (either vanilla or chocolate), and doTERRA's Lifelong Vitality Pack, which is a daily nutrient pack that include whole food vitamins/minerals, omega fatty acids, and essential oils that support cellular vitality (MY FAVORITE PRODUCT).
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Essential Oils for Summer Cooking

• Basil                                                                              
• Cilantro
• Coriander
• Thyme
• Rosemary
• Marjoram
• Oregano
• Lemon
• Lime
• Grapefruit
• Wild Orange

Avocado Salsa

• 6 medium roma tomatoes (20 ounces), seeded and dices
• 1 cup red onion, chopped
• 1 large or 2 small jalapeños , seeded and chopped (1/4 cup. Leave seeds if you like).
• 3 medium avocados, semi-firms, but ripe, peeled, cored, and diced
• 3 ½ Tablespoons olive oil
• 2 - 3 drops of Lime essential oil
• 1 - 2 drops Cilantro essential oil
• 1 clove garlic, finely minced
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon fresh ground pepper

1.      Place red onion in strainer and rinse under cool water to remove harsh bite. Drain well and place in a large mixing bowl. Add tomatoes, jalapeños, and avocados.

2.      In a smaller bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, salt, pepper, and essential oils until well mixed. Pour over avocado mixture in larger bowl and gently toss together.

3.      Serve with tortilla chips or over Mexican entrees. 

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After all the fun is said and done you may realize that you had TOO much fun and got a sun burn, bug bites, nausea from all the food, etc. Here are some ideas for after fun remedies (also see DigestZen above for tummy issues).

After Sun Skin Soothing Recipe

• 2 ounce spray bottle
• Lavender essential oil
• Peppermint essential oil

Add equal part peppermint and lavender essential oils (try 10 drops each at first) to the spray bottle and fill the rest of the way with water. Spray of burnt skin to help soothe the burning sensation. Lavender helps to promote skin healing and peppermint provides a cooling sensation to dull the burning pain.

Boo-Boos
Mix Lavender and Melaleuca essential oils with a carrier oil such as fractionated coconut oil, baby oil, almond oil, etc. and apply to wound to soothe skin, promote healing, and disinfect.

Bug Bites
Apply Lavender to bug bites to help calm skin irritations.

**Remember to keep your family safe from the sun with sunscreen as well! Do you know what your sunscreen is made of though? Could it be doing more harm than good? Read one of my previous articles called Understand Your Sunscreen. I think it will open your eyes to the danger of conventional sunscreen. Above all else, ENJOY YOUR SUMMER!
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References:

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

Total Wellness Publishing. (2015). The Essential Life: A Simple Guide to Living The Wellness Lifestyle (2nd. ed.). Pleasant Grove, UT: Total Wellness Publishing.

CAUTION. Read the labels carefully for these oils. Some should not be used during pregnancy, could cause skin sensitives, and or should not be exposed to UV light for 12 hours.

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

Heal Your Gut With Essential Oils, Nutrition, and Supplements

First of all, if you have not read my previous article about Essential Oils and Digestion I suggested you go back and read that first.

Remember last week, we talk about how your digestive system is the first line of defense against chemicals and pathogens. When the lining of our gastrointestinal (GI) tract  is damaged, whether it be from chemical or poor diet, large, partially digested foods, chemicals, and pathogens can slip straight into the blood stream causing systemic inflammation that can lead to food allergies and autoimmune diseases. This is call Leaky Gut Syndrome. If you have not heard of this before, I suggest reading this article from Dr. Axe called 4 Step To Heal Leaky Gut And Autoimmune Disease. This week we are going to further talk about essential oils and supplements that support digestive health. 

Single Oils:

+Black Pepper: The constituents in this oil are known for their antioxidant properties, supporting circulation, and aiding in digestion.* For digestive health, take internally in a capsule or apply topically to abdomen.

Cardamon: Cardamom can be taken internally or applied topically to abdomen to ease indigestion, alleviate occasional stomach discomfort, and maintain overall GI health.*

Cilantro: This is a powerful cleanser and detoxifier.* To aid digestion and support liver and kidney health, take internally in a capsule or apply topically over liver.*

Dill: As a powerhouse for antioxidants, this oil supports digestion, purifies the body, and maintains overall GI health.* Take internally in a capsule to support digestion and the immune system.*

+Fennel: Fennel is best known for promoting healthy digestion, metabolism, liver function, and circulation.* For digestive health, take internally in a capsule or apply topically to abdomen.

+Geranium: This oil is primarily used to support an healthy integumentary system (hair, nails, and skin), but it can also be used to support liver, gallbladder, pancreas, and kidney health.* Apply topically to area of concern or take internally in a capsule. 

+Ginger: Ginger is lauded for supporting digestive health and helping to ease occasional indigestion and nausea.* Diffuse, take internally in a capsule, or apply to abdomen and/or wrists.

+Grapefruit: It supports healthy metabolism, uplifts mood, and improve the appearance of blemishes.* Take internally by placing a few drops in water or apply over kidneys.

+Lemon: As a natural purifier, this oil aids in digestion, supports a healthy respiratory system, and promotes a positive mood.* To detoxify body, take internally in water or apply topically to ears and ankles.* Read my article about oil here.

+Marjoram: While great for cooking, Marjoram is also used as a digestive stimulant and aids the immune system.* Take internally in a capsule or apply topically to abdomen and over pancreas. 

+Peppermint: It is a great bug repellent, helps support respiratory function and clear breathing, and promotes digestion.* To support digestive health take internally in a capsule or a cup of water or apply topically to the abdomen. Read my article about this oil here.

+Thyme: Like many of these oils, thyme can be used for cooking, can purify and cleanse the body, and supports the immune system with it's heavy load of antioxidants.* Take internally in a capsule. 

+Wild Orange: Like Cilantro, this oil is a powerful cleanser, detoxifies, and is filled with antioxidants to support immune health.* For digestive health, take internally by adding a few drops to water and drinking.  Read my article about this oil here.


Blends:

DigestZen (Digestive) Blend: contains ginger, peppermint, caraway, coriander, anise, tarragon, and fennel. This blend aids in the digestion of food, soothes occasional stomach upset, and reduces bloating, gas, and indigestion.* Read my article about this oil here.

Slim & Sassy (Metabolic) Blend: contains grapefruit, lemon, peppermint, ginger, and cinnamon. It promote healthy metabolism, calms stomach, and helps to manage hunger.*

Zendocrine (Detoxification) Blend: contains tangerine, rosemary, geranium, juniper, and cilantro. This blend supports liver function and aids the body in purifying and detoxifying body systems.*

Supplements 

When you purchase doTERRA's Cleanse and Restore Kit from me, you will receive my cleansing program for FREE! (contact me to get the kit at wholesale price, dont pay retail!)

PB Assist+: This is a blend of pre- and probiotic microorganisms that encourage friendly bacterial growth. This contains 6 billion CFU of probiotics including lactobacillus acidophilus, lactobacillus salivarius, lactobacillus casei, bifidobacterium longum, bifidobacterium lactis, and bifidobacterium bifidum.

• lactobacillus acidophilus: relieves gas, bloating, improves lactose intolerance. Shown 61% reduction in e. coli, lower cholesterol levels, and creating of vitamin K. 
• lactobacillus salivarius: relieves gas supports immunity and balances good bacteria in the gut.
• lactobacillus casei: supports immunity, inhibits h. pylori, and helps fights infections.
• bifidobacterium longum: supports liver function, reduces inflammation, and removes lead and heavy metals.
• bifidobacterium lactis: supports immunity, improve digestion, lowers cholesterol levels, andinhibits h. pylori.
• bifidobacterium bifidum: supports porduction of vitamins in gut, inhibits harmful bacteria, supports immune system response and prevents diarrhea. 

DigestZen (Digestive) Blend Softgels: see info above

TerraZyme (Digestive Enzyme Complex): this is a whole-food enzyme complex which are critical for healthy biochemical functions, digestion of food nutrients, and cellular metabolism of food for energy. 

Enzyme	Activity
Protease	Breaks down protein to peptides and amino acids*
Papain	Breaks down protein*
Amylase	Breaks down carbohydrates, starches, and sugars*
Lipase	Breaks down fats and oil to be absorbed in the intestine
Lactase	Breaks down lactose found in milk sugars*
Alpha Galactosidase	Breaks down complex polysaccharide sugars found in legumes and cruciferous vegetables that can cause bloating and gas*
Cellulase	Breaks down fiber to help digest fruits and vegetables*
Sucrase	Breaks down sucrose to fructose and glucose for energy*
Anti-Gluten Enzyme	Assists in breaking down gluten*
Glucoamylase	Breaks down starch*

GX Assist (GI Cleansing Formula): a blend of oregano, melaleuca, lemon, lemongrass, peppermint, and thyme essential oils that support a healthy gastrointestinal tract by creating an environment that only supports healthy bacteria. This blend also contains caprylic acid from coconut oil, which balances microbes in the GI tract.

L-Glutamine: this is an amino acid that supports digestive system by helping the Gi tract rebuild and repair itself as well as prevent further damage. 

• Foods with L-Glutamine
• Bone Broth
• Grass-fed Beef
• Spirulina
• Chinese Cabbage
• Cottage Cheese
• Asparagus
• Broccoli Raab
• Wild Caught Fish (cod, salmon, tuna)
• Venison
• Turkey

Life Long Vitality Pack: 

• Acetyl-L-Carnitine: Helps shuttle fatty acids into mitochondria for energy production 
• Alpha Lipoic Acid: Supports the production of ATP and acts as a powerful antioxidant in mitochondria 
• Coenzyme Q10: Important coenzyme for energy production; supports heart health 
• Quercetin: Provides powerful polyphenol antioxidant protection in mitochondria and other cell structures 
• Resveratrol: Polyphenol found in red wine; supports healthy mitochonodrial biogenesis 
• Vitamins and Minerals: Essential cofactors of energy production in cells 
• Essential Fatty Acids: Required for cell growth; supports healthy cellular function

Alpha CRS+ (Cellular Vitality Complex): contain polyphenols that protect cells from free radicals, reduces oxidative stress on cells, and increases energy at the cellular level.

xEO Mega: this blend contains fatty acids and other fat soluble nutrients that supports heart, brain, and immune health. 

Microplex MVp (Micronutrient Complex): contains food based vitamins, minerals, and polyphenols (antioxidants).

Foods That Nourish and Heal Gut

Bone Broth

Coconut Oil

Sauerkraut and fermented veggies

Goat's milk kefir

Blueberries

Squash

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References:  

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

Axe, Joshua. (n.d.). L-glutamine benefits leaky gut & metabolism. Retrieved on 6 April, 2016 from http://draxe.com/l-glutamine-benefits-side-effects-dosage/

Axe, Joshua. (n.d.). Top 10 leaky gut supplements. Retrieved on 6 April, 2016 from http://draxe.com/leaky-gut-supplements/

Total Wellness Publishing. (2015). The Essential Life: A Simple Guide to Living The Wellness Lifestyle (2nd. ed.). Pleasant Grove, UT: Total Wellness Publishing.

Product Information:

doTERRA Product Page:
Black Pepper, Fennel, Ginger, Wild Orange, Grapefruit, Peppermint, Cardamom, Marjoram, Cilantro, Lemon, Geranium, Dill, Thyme, DigestZen, Slim & Sassy, Zendocrine, PB Assist+, TerraZyme, GX Assist

+ CAUTION. Read the labels carefully for these oils. Some should not be used during pregnancy, could cause skin sensitives, and or should not be exposed to UV light for 12 hours.

*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.

Re-launch of The Truth About Cancer Documentary

This is probably the most important documentary you will ever watch. It could save your life. Click on this link to watch the trailer and sign up to watch the documentary for FREE starting April 12th.

Also, take this quiz to receive a free ebook about how to prevent cancer.

Essential Oils and Digestion

Our digestive system is a long pathway in our bodies that is responsible for breaking down and processing food, absorbing nutrients, and expelling waste. Over our lifetime, our digestive system will break down more than 25 tons of food! System organs include our mouth, spleen, stomach, liver, gallbladder, pancreas, small intestine, and colon. For more about each organ’s responsibilities, read Dr. Axe’s article about How Your Digestive System Works.

We commonly believe this is our digestive system’s only job, process food, but it is also our first line of defense again infection and works closely with our immune system. Think about this, through the food we eat and liquid we drink the gastrointestinal (GI) tract is exposed to pathogens, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi. In concert with our immune system, our GI tract works tirelessly to break down those pathogens at various stages of digestion. Without this process, our GI tract is the perfect warm, moist, dark location for colonization. With this relentless barrage of food, chemicals, and pathogens, our GI tract never gets a break. The lining of our digestive system must always protect itself while also discriminating particles that are permitted through to the blood stream.

Digestive problems are becoming more prevalent within the United States population. In 2010, it was estimated that 60-70 million people were affected by digestive diseases and there were 245, 921 deaths (National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases). The total cost of these digestive problems, which includes both direct and indirect costs, was $141 billion in 2004. The most common GI problems include gas, bloating, excessive diarrhea, constipation, and inability to absorb nutrients. There is also overwhelming medical evidence that there is a link between our digestive system and emotional health, such as stress, anxiety, and depression. The most astounding part about all this is that these problems are preventable!

It all starts with nutrition. This cannot be stressed enough. I think that there is a lot of misinterpretation of information by consumers. Many of us think we are eating healthy because we are eating low fat, or low carb diets or eating “clean”. These are all buzz words that do not really mean a whole lot if you do not truly understand what you are putting into your body. It is important to eat organic, nutrient dense foods. Lot of vegetables of course, free range chicken, grass feed beef, fermented foods, and absolutely no processed sugar or conventional meat and dairy products. That may sound like a lot, but I promise that it is easier than you think. It is important to also know what triggers an adverse response from the gut; Genetically Modified Organism (GMO) kill gut bacteria because they are loaded with chemicals; antibiotics kill EVERYTHING in the gut; gluten, processed sugar (feed yeast in intestines) and conventional dairy can all wreak havoc. Check out this video from Buzzfeed that will totally turn you off to conventional meats and dairy. 

You also should consume pre and probiotics because we absolutely need good strains of bacteria in our guts for immune support. We should also use essential oils that support digestive organ health and remove harmful bacteria. Lastly, exercise has a huge influence on your digestive health. As mentioned before, stress and emotional problems can affect our bowls in horrible ways. Physical activity and stress management techniques are imperative for keeping the digestive system working at optimal levels.

Just remember this, your immune system starts in your gut! Support the gut and everything else will fall into place!

Disease/Disorders Associated with Gut Health

(Read Dr. Axe’s article about gut and autoimmune disease: link below)

Depression/Anxiety

ADHD

Acne

Eczema

Psoriasis

Hashimoto’s

Hypothyroidism

Grave’s Disease

Irritable Bowl Syndrome

Chron’s

Rheumatoid Arthritis

Fibroidmyalia

Single Oils

Stomach: black pepper, fennel, ginger, wild orange

Stomach /intestinal lining: grapefruit, peppermint

Intestines: cardamom, ginger, marjoram, peppermint

Liver: cilantro, geranium, grapefruit, lemon, rosemary

Gallbladder: geranium, grapefruit

Pancreas: dill, fennel, geranium, ginger, thyme

Buy essential oils from me here

Blends

DigestZen (Digestive) Blend: supports digestion and elimination

Slim & Sassy (Metabolic) Blend: supports stomach, intestines, pancreas, liver, gallbladder, fat digestion, and satiation

AromaTouch (Massage) Blend: supports peristalsis and bowel tone

Zendocrine (Detoxification) Blend: supports gallbladder, liver, and pancreas

Buy essential oils from me here

Supplements

PB Assist+ (Defensive Probiotic): You need a supplement with at least 50 billion IU

DigestZen (Digestive) Blend Softgels

TerraZyme (Food Enzymes)

GX Assist (GI Cleansing) Softgels

L-gutamine: crucial amino acid for gut health

Gingseng

Buy supplements from me here

Foods That Nourish and Heal Gut

Bone Broth

Coconut Oil

Sauerkraut and fermented veggies

Goat's milk kefir

Blueberries

Squash

Essential Oil Usage Tips

Internal: Place 1 - 5 drops in water and drink, take in capsule, or place drops under tongue.

Topical: Apply essential oils to abdomen and/or bottoms on feet.

Remedy Recipes

IBS Relief*:

4 drops Frankincense

2 drops Peppermint

2 drop Fennel

2 drops Ginger

Combine oils in capsule and take three times a day with meals.

Constipation Remedy*:

7 drops Wild Orange

5 drops Coriander

4 drops Lemon

4 drop DigestZen

2 drop Ginger

Combine in 2 oz. spray bottle; fill about 1/2 full of carrier oil. Spray on belly and rub in clockwise motion for three to five minutes.

Digest-Ease*:

Combine 1 drop each of -DigestZen, Zendocrine, and Oregano in a capsule. Consume to ease digestive discomfort, stomach pain and bloating.

Navel Drop:

Add 1 drop of essential oil (choose one to meet specific digestive needs) into belly bottom for relief.

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References

Axe, J. (n.d.) How Your Digestive System Works. Retrieved from http://draxe.com/how-your-digestive-system-works/

Axe. J. (n.d.). 4 Steps To Heal Leaky Gut And Autoimmune Disease. Retrieved from http://draxe.com/4-steps-to-heal-leaky-gut-and-autoimmune-disease/

Center for Disease Control. (2011). National hospital ambulatory medical care survey: 2011 outpatient department summary tables. Retrieved from http://www.cdc.gov/nchs/data/ahcd/nhamcs_outpatient/2011_opd_web_tables.pdf

National Institute of Diabetes and Digestives and Kidney Diseases. (2014). Health statistics: Digestive disease statistics for the United States. Retrieved from http://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/health-statistics/Pages/digestive-diseases-statistics-for-the-united-states.aspx

Total Wellness Publishing. (2015). The Essential Life: A Simple Guide to Living The Wellness Lifestyle (2nd. ed.). Pleasant Grove, UT: Total Wellness Publishing

* These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent disease.

How Essential Oils Effects Body Systems

Think of your body as an intricate machine. It is composed of several large systems that each has their own smaller, more detailed structure. Each system must operate on its own and with other systems in order for the machine to function. Like the machine, our body is divided into multiple systems and each one contains individual organs. Each body system, each organ, each layer of tissue, and each cell must function on its own as well as with the other systems of the body. It only takes one faulty or worn-out body system to effectively “break” the entire machine. Just like it is a mechanic’s job to figure out why the machine is not operating, it is our job to be educated about our bodies so that we can support our body systems when symptoms arise.

The current way of thinking about health and disease is incredibly narrow. Our motivation for seeking out a physician is to just “feel better” or “get rid of the symptoms”. In other words, we acknowledge we are feeling bad, identify symptoms, seek remedies (usually in the form of over-the-counter or prescription drugs), and continue on with our daily routines. The problem is, all we did was manage symptoms and ignored the underlying cause and our body’s needs. This is called the ambulance approach to healthcare.

The Essential Life, 2015

The holistic approach to wellness promotes living with a prevention mindset and addressing root causes when symptoms arise by providing support to the entire body system (Total Wellness Publishing, 2015). With this approach, symptoms arise, you identify symptoms and consider which body system they are coming from, research conditions within that system that best relate to what you are experiencing, and seek remedies by learning which oil supports and strengthens that system. You are addressing the root causes and giving your body what it needs in order to heal and prevent future symptoms verses managing those symptoms, which will likely come back in the future. The outcome of the holistic approach is that you have gained knowledge and an understanding of body systems and how they function. This is a lifestyle approach and you are also considering habits that contribute to the symptoms such as diet, sleep, exercise, stress, etc.

Let’s use an example. I go to the doctor for a routine check-up and my blood panel results state that I have high LDL (bad) cholesterol. I am going to assume that my doctor will ask me about my lifestyle habits, such as diet, exercise, sleep, stress, etc. He/she will also ask if I have a family history of high cholesterol and what medications I am taking. I tell them, no, I do not have a family history or take medications, I exercise on most days, sleep 7-8 hours a night, and I have a good diet. Hmmmm, why do I still have high cholesterol? At this point, depending on my age, the doctor will likely want to put me on a cholesterol medication. This is the ambulance approach.

Using the holistic approach, I would research which body system controls cholesterol levels, which is the cardiovascular system. How does my body synthesize cholesterol? What does my body need in order to manage blood lipid (fat) levels? After some research, I learn that cholesterol is needed in order to create cell membranes, hormones, vitamin D, and bile acids that help break down fat in my diet. A study that was featured in an article on Dr. Mercola's website stated that vitamin D and calcium supplements improve lipid profiles. The name of the article is The Importance of Vitamin D for Normalizing Your Cholesterol Levels. This is not a surprise since vitamin D is the #1 and #2 vitamin and mineral deficiency in women and men, respectively. Here is another link, heart disease is the #1 killer of women in the United States, and high cholesterol is the leading health concern that contributes to heart disease.

After all my research, I now have the tools in order to start normalizing my cholesterol level WITHOUT drugs. The biggest reason I want to do this the natural way is because it is more sustainable over my lifetime and like most drugs, there are side effects. My plan consists of getting at least 20 minutes of sun exposure per day (even on cloudy days), taking a calcium supplement (food based, of course), and incorporating essential oils that help the cardiovascular system. The best part about adding essential oils to my regime is that their complex chemistry supports other systems and organs simultaneously. I may be using them to support my cardiovascular system, in this case, but they could also be supporting my digestive system, lymphatic system, and so on.

Essential oils have needless applications. I use them to treat and prevent aliments, make cleaning and beauty supplies, and I even cook with them. Over the next few weeks I will explore how essential oils suport different body systems. Stay tuned!

Links:

Dr. Axe: 17 Ways to Lower Cholesterol Naturally

Dr. Axe: Essential Oils: Beginner's Guide

Buy essential oils here

Essential Oils and Children

+ Photo does not include all suggested oils

As a mother, I am always worried about my boys’ physical health and emotional development. My husband and I spent many sleepless nights struggling to remedy aliments with ineffective treatments. I wish that someone had talked to me about oils sooner. We experienced sleep issues, colic, diaper rash, reflux, baby acne, cradle cap, and hand, foot, mouth disease. Those are just the issues we dealt with in the infant stages. Like every kid, once they started going to daycare and school they were exposed to other bacteria, fungi, and viruses. As their immune systems adjusted to these new pathogens they got sick and I did not have effective forms of treatment available.

Physical health is not my only concern. Mental and emotional health are always in the front of my mind because mental health disorders run in my family. That is an extreme example of what parents have to deal with though. Every parent, regardless of genetics, deals with temper tantrums, sadness, emotional upset, hyperactivity, and stress with their kids.

The good news is, essential oils are versatile and very gentle and therefore, can be used on children of all ages. See dilution chart below for young children. My kids love using the oils and I take it as an opportunity to teach them about self-care. 

Here are some suggestions on oils that you can use on your kiddos. Also check out the doTERRA Science Blog post about kids and oils (link below).

Single Oils

-  Lavender: all things calming (most used oil for children), soothes skin irritations

- Wild Orange: calming/uplifting, digestive support, sedative

- Frankincense: supports brain, mood, and wound healing*, grounding, balance mood

- Roman Chamomile: supports sense of calm and relaxation, sedative, diffuses negative thoughts/moods*
- Melalueca: cleanses skin and nails

Blends

- Serenity (Calming Blend): supports sense of peace and calm, lessens feelings of tension

- Balance (Grounding Blend): supports feeling grounded and stable

- DigestZen (Digestive Blend): supports digestion and elimination

- OnGuard (Protective Blend): boosts immune system*, natural anti-oxidant*

- InTune (Focus Blend): supports optimal focus and concentration
- Breathe (Respiratory Blend): maintains feeling of clear airways, minimizes effects of seasonal threats

Supplements

-          a2z Children's Chewable: food based vitamins and minerals

-          IQ Mega: liquid omega-3 supplement flavor with orange essential oil

Usage Tips

Children love to explore and learn and are naturally curious. This is a great opportunity to involve them in your use of essential oil and have them help you make personalized roller bottles for them. Allow them to smell the oils to build a sense of safety and tell them what the oil is used for. You will create a love of oils for them too!

-          Aromatic: Use oils at bedtime with a diffuser or smell the oils directly from a bottle. Older kids can have roller bottles in their backpack that they can use during the day to help them maintain focus and concentration.

-          Topical: When topically using oil on younger children (infants and toddlers), you always want to dilute them with a carrier oil such as fractionated coconut or almond oil and massage on back, stomach, or feet. With older child, you can apply oils directly onto their skin (NEAT), but you want to limit it to one or two drops. If they have any kind of skin reaction, then dilute the oils as necessary. See chart below for dilution recommendations.

Links:
Learn about more uses for the oils here
doTERRA Science Blog Article: Essential Oils and Kids
Purchase Essential Oils here

*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.