using essential oils

Cranberry Tangerine Scones

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I am a sucker for a good scone. One of my favorite afternoon treats is a delicious coffee and a scone. I like to make these into small size scones so I don’t ruin my appetite or my exercise efforts. The little treat is so worth it, though.

These tangerine cranberry scones are super delicious pretty much any time of day. Not just for afternoon coffee time. You could have them for breakfast, brunch or dessert.

Health Benefits of Cranberries:

As far as healthy foods go, cranberries are at the top of the list due to their high nutrient and antioxidant content and are often referred to as a “super food.” Not to mention, half a cup of cranberries contains only 25 calories! The possible health benefits of consuming cranberries include lowered risk of urinary tract infections, prevention of certain types of cancer, improved immune function, decreased blood pressure and more.

Ingredients:

Scones

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) cold salted butter, cubed
  • 1 tablespoon grated tangerine or orange zest
  • 1 cup chopped dried cranberries
  • ¾ cup plus 4 tablespoons heavy cream

Glaze

Directions:For the scones:
  1. Preheat oven to 425°F. Line baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a large glass bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, granulated sugar, and salt. Cut the butter into the mixture using a pastry cutter or fingers until the mixture resembles coarse sand. Add the tangerine zest and dried cranberries.
  3. Make a well in the center of the dry mixture and add ¾ cup of the heavy cream. Mix the dough together. It should have a slightly dry texture, but not crumbly. Add an additional 1-2 tablespoons of heavy cream if the dough seems too dry.
  4. Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead it for 1 minute. Form the dough into a round 1-inch thick, and use a knife or a pizza 4. cutter to cut the round into 8 equal wedges. Arrange the wedges in a round, but about 1 inch apart, on the baking sheet. Brush the wedges with 4 tablespoons heavy cream and bake for 15 to 20 minutes, until the scones are golden and the edges are lightly toasted.

For the glaze:

  1. In a glass bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, tangerine zest, orange juice, and tangerine essential oil. Drizzle the glaze on top of the warm scones.

Serve the scones warm or cold. Either way they will be delicious!

*Note: It is important to be sure you are using an essential oil that is safe for consumption. Many so called ‘essential oils’ from drugstores and grocery stores are quite toxic if taken internally. I choose to use only Certified Pure Therapuetic Grade doTERRA Essential oils. I recommended working closely with someone who can mentor you on the use of essential oils. You can also downloaded this free ebook that is a perfect guide for using essential oils.

I would love to hear what you think! Comment below and let me know if you loved these!

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Floral Essential Oils

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I have never been a huge floral essential oil fan. Somehow the essential oils in this category are growing on me more and more. It is interesting that the primary benefit of all floral essential oils are calming and soothing, so maybe that explains it.

Florals are calming for skin, joints and mood. Sounds like a perfect solution for many things, right?

Clary Sage, Geranium, Helichrysum, Lavender, Roman Chamomile, and Ylang Ylang are all considered some of the doTERRA floral oils. Frequently used in perfumes, these oils come from the flower of their plant of origin, whether it be an herb or tree. This is with the exception of Geranium that comes from the flower as well as the rest of the plant.

About Floral Essential Oils


The common properties that the floral oils share include emotional benefits as well as benefits to the skin and hair. Lavender, Ylang Ylang, and Clary Sage have calming properties when you need stress-relief. To smooth or improve the appearance of skin, all you need is Geranium, Helichrysum, or Roman Chamomile. Clary Sage, Geranium, Roman Chamomile, or Ylang Ylang can all be added shampoo or conditioner (or massaged directly onto your scalp) to give your hair and scalp a healthy appearance.

A few of the best floral essential oils:

Clary Sage

  • During your menstrual cycle, apply two to four drops to abdomen for a soothing abdominal massage
  • Apply one to two drops to the bottom of your feet or on pulse points to take advantage of the powerfully soothing aroma
  • Apply one to two drops to your pillow for a restful night’s sleep

Geranium

  • Combine with Fractionated Coconut Oil to give your partner a sensual massage
  • Apply under your arms after a sweaty workout or a day in the sun
  • Place one drop in the palm of your hands, rub hands together, and cup over nose and mouth and breathe slowly for a grounding effect
  • Add to your next DIY potpourri
  • Put a few drops on a cotton ball and place around your home to naturally repel insects

Helichrysum

  • Apply topically to reduce the appearance of blemishes
  • Apply to the face to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and to promote a glowing, youthful complexion
  • Use Helichrysum in conjunction with a full body massage to promote vitality and energy
  • Massage into the temples and back of neck for a soothing sensation
  • Take two drops in a veggie capsule, as it may help promote a healthy metabolism*

Lavender

  • Use directly on skin to soothe the occasional skin irritation, or to reduce the appearance of skin imperfections
  • Take in water or a veggie capsule to reduce anxious feelings and help ease feelings of tension
  • Add a few drops of Lavender to pillows, bedding, or bottoms of feet for a restful night’s sleep
  • Refresh your mattress, car, or even the air with a light mist of a few drops Lavender combined with water in a spray bottle
  • Use in cooking to soften citrus flavors and add a flavorful twist to marinades, baked goods, and desserts
  • Take one to two drops internally in a veggie capsule for a peaceful sleep

Roman Chamomile

  • Take one to two drops in water to soothe the systems of the body
  • Has a calming effect on the mind and body when taken internally
  • Taking one to two drops in a veggie capsule may help to support healthy immune system function
  • Set the stage for sleep by diffusing one to two drops, or apply to the bottom of your feet at bedtime
  • Diffuse to soothe away feelings of anger and irritability
  • Apply to wrists and neck for a peaceful evening at home
  • Apply to chest over heart for feelings of well-being

Ylang Ylang

  • Add to doTERRA Fractionated Coconut Oil for a deep hair conditioner and beat the damaging summer heat
  • Diffuse two to four drops to promote a positive outlook
  • Take one to two drops internally for antioxidant support
  • Create relaxing atmosphere by adding it to an Epsom salt bath to help you unwind

How to get floral essential oils in your home

If you are curious how to use essential oils and need to basics, check out this gorgeous ebook and then reach out to me for some guidance and samples.

*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.

Jasmine Essential Oil

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I cannot seem to get enough of this oil lately. I find wearing it along my wrists, behind my ears, under my nose makes for a super calm, feminine feeling sassiness all day long. 

Although native to the tropics, jasmine is cultivated in gardens around the world, thanks to its beautiful blossoms and exquisite fragrance. The aroma of Jasmine essential oil has an almost universal appeal. Intensely floral, it is warm, sweet, musky, and exotic. 

Due to the delicate nature of the blossoms, Jasmine cannot be distilled like other flowers. Instead, a precious, highly concentrated absolute is made from the flowers. It takes thousands of freshly picked petals to produce a 5 mL bottle of Jasmine absolute. There are over 200 varieties of Jasmine, most of which are native to warm climates in Northern Africa and Southern Asia. doTERRA Jasmine essential oil is sourced in Egypt from Royal Jasmine flower petals (Jasminum grandiflorum). Royal Jasmine is the most sought-after fragrance in the perfume and aromatherapy industries, thanks to its superior aroma. Of course, doTERRA’s standard takes that to the next level with added health benefits. 

Is Jasmine Oil Good For Skin?

Jasmine essential oil provides several skin benefits. It promotes healthy-looking, glowing skin and reduces the appearance of blemishes, fine lines, and wrinkles. It can also be applied to the scalp to nourish and protect the skin. When used in skincare, jasmine essential oil acts as an effective antibacterial, soothing dry skin and eczema and increasing cell turnover to lighten the appearance of scars. 

Is Jasmine Effective for Mood?

There is evidence that aromatherapy can effectively reduce depressive symptoms. A study that looked at jasmine essential oil found that when compared to a placebo, jasmine oil increased behavioral arousal. 

This included significant increases in blood oxygen saturation, breathing rate, and blood pressure. The participants in the jasmine oil group also reported feeling more alert. The researchers concluded that the stimulating and activating effect of jasmine oil could be useful for relieving depression and improving mood. 

Jasmine oil used in aromatherapy massage was found to be particularly effective.

Another study published in the Journal of Health Research examined the effects of jasmine oil inhalation on the central nervous system and mood. When inhaled, jasmine oil affected brain activity and mood states and the participants reported feeling more positive, energetic, and romantic. 

You can reap the mental benefits of jasmine oil aromatherapy by using it in massage oil or in a diffuser, or by inhaling it directly from the bottle.

Is Jasmine an Aphrodisiac?

Jasmine’s romantic scent has long been believed to have an aphrodisiac effect. It’s been worn as a fragrance, and in parts of India, jasmine flowers are often included as décor at weddings in the newlyweds’ bedroom to set the mood for romance.

There is little scientific evidence to back its effects as an aphrodisiac. We do know that inhaling jasmine or using it in aromatherapy massage improves mood and has been reported to increase romantic and positive feelings, as well as energy levels. 

These things could, in theory, prime someone for romance and sex. Also, its stimulant effect on brain waves may make a person more alert to sexual cues, possibly increasing blood flow to the penis, according to a small study that looked at the association between odors and sexual response.

If you’re hoping to spice things up in the bedroom with jasmine oil, try dabbing some of the oil on your neck. Your body heat will enhance the scent. You can also add a few drops on bedding, to a warm bath, or to a diffuser in the bedroom.

Where Do You Apply Jasmine Oil?

Jasmine essential oil can be applied to pulse points for a calming aroma that uplifts mood and promotes a positive outlook. It evokes feelings of joy, peace, and self-confidence. In addition, Jasmine essential oil provides a myriad of benefits to the mind and body.When worn as a personal fragrance on the wrists and neck, Jasmine essential oil helps balance mood throughout the month and is highly sought-after for its ability to stir feelings of euphoria and romance. I love to apply Jasmine across my lower belly from hip to hip and behind my ears.

Are you ready to get Jasmine in your collection? You can grab one here. Check out this amazing ebook, too. It is packed with information to get you inspired to use essential oils for many uses in your home. 

The Top Ten Essential Oils

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The Immune System and the Lymphatic System work synergistically to protect the body from harmful pathogens and disease. 

Wait. What is it?

 These systems include white blood cells, bone marrow, the spleen, tonsils, adenoids, appendix, thymus, lymph, and lymph nodes. When our immune system is working properly, it is able to identify a threat and engage in a series of responses designed to eliminate the pathogen from entering targeted cells and tissues.

Lifestyle choices can either strengthen or weaken the immune response.

Nutrition is an important factor in having a healthy immune system because cells need vital nutrients to safeguard the body. 

Did you know  your essential oils have a chemical footprint similar to the human body, therefore, they have the unique ability to help the immune system bring itself to balance? Essential oils are fat-soluble (lipophilic) so they are able to penetrate the cell membrane and back up your immune system when you are feeling a bit run down.

There are so many uses for just these ten essential oils! And the great news is these come in two of my favorite starter bundles. Plus, when you get started with me, I hook you up with some awesome education and mentoring so that you know exactly how to use them, a free wellness coaching session, and a welcome package to get your started! You will also be part of a great community of people striving for wholeness.

Essential Yoga–Alignment

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With the right alignment, everything you want makes it way into your experience. You are the keeper of your own gate – Esther Hicks

In this workshop, we use essential oils and yoga poses specifically designed to create holistic alignment. Moving more slowly through our practice and holding specific postures will help us notice the subtle shifts in our body, mind and spirit that the oils assist in creating, as we realign and balance ourselves to the core of our being.

Essential Oils

CYPRESS (AROMATIC/DIFFUSE):

PHYSICAL: Energizing aroma used to bring energy and vitality to the spirit. Promotes clear breathing. Eases muscle tightness and tension–excellent to apply following physical exertion. Supports healthy movement of fluids of our lymphatic and circulatory systems. Used topically on the skin to smooth the appearance of legs and hips.

EMOTIONAL: Oil of Motion & Flow. Creates energetic flow where there has been stagnation. Helps those mentally or emotionally stuck, stiff, rigid, tense, over-striving or perfectionist tendencies. Perfect for our practice today–helps us diffuse the need to force or try to control what is around us, recognizing that this need stems from fear. Allows us to have perfect trust in the flow of life –to cast aside our worries and let go! Used in today’s workshop to help us let go of those things pulling us in undesired directions so we can begin to return to balance.

GRAPEFRUIT (INTERNAL/DRINKING):

PHYSICAL: Comes from the rind of the fruit. One of the oils in the Slim & Sassy Metabolic Blend to help manage appetite and weight gain. Supports the healthy movement of fluids in the body’s circulatory and lymphatic systems —-similar to Cypress oil we are diffusing. A wonderful cleanser –perfect for supporting a healthy and effective digestive and metabolic systems. Uplifting and balancing aroma–so as we take a sip, we breathe in its calming scent.

EMOTIONAL: Oil of Honoring the Body. Encourages us to direct love and respect toward our body & listen to our body’s needs. Releases deep-seated tension, frustration, irritability and moodiness. Helps control emotional, stress-eating that often results from inner anger. Lightens our spirit and helps us recognize our BEAUTY –you are perfect as you are! Used in today’s workshop to help us cleanse thoughts & feelings to prepare our mind and heart to recognize that we are beautiful, we are strong and we are doing exactly what we are here to do in this lifetime.

FRANKINCENSE

PHYSICAL: Powerful and rare oil that is very diverse in its use on/in/around the body. The “one” oil you want if you can only have one! Known historically as a holy oil used for anointing and sacred ceremonies when spiritual awareness is desired. Distilled from frankincense tree resin harvested from a small region in the Middle East & Northern Africa. Highly researched for its ability to helps build and maintain a healthy immune system and function. Known to support the rejuvenation of skin and other epithelial tissue.

EMOTIONAL: The Oil of Truth. Connects us to our spiritual selves creating a healthy attachment to our actual father or the father figure in our lives. Reminds us we are loved and protected with a gentle, loving Divine spirit (God). Helps release us to break free from our past, making it an ideal oil to use for those seeking spiritual awakening and evolution through meditation and prayer. Used in today’s workshop to bring our spirit into alignment with our mind and heart.

MARJORAM

PHYSICAL: Comes from a common herb found in kitchens around the world. Also known as “wintersweet” or “joy of the mountains”. Very effective for its calming properties –applied topically to soothe tired, stressed muscles. As we calm tissue in the body, the body can direct each of its parts to relax and open. Particularly beneficial for respiratory and nervous system health and support. Aroma invokes peace, calm and restful sleep.

EMOTIONAL: The Oil of Connection. Encourages us to have trust vs fear and therefore creating close relationships. Good for those who tend to be aloof and uncommitted with others, thereby sabotaging hopes of long-term relationships. Assists individuals to soften their heart and warm to new relationships –knowing it is safe to connect and share love with others. Used in today’s workshop to help us open and realign our entire body-mind-spirit in practice…relaxing so we can open to others.

DEEP BLUE BLEND

PHYSICAL: This blend includes Wintergreen/Camphor/Peppermint/Blue Tansy/BlueChamomile/Helichrysum/Osmanthus essential oils. These oils combine to support a healthy inflammatory response in the body. Soothes sore muscles and joints and supports healthy circulation. Wonderful tool for home use for adults of all ages, and professional body workers to rub onto achy muscles and joints.

EMOTIONAL: Oil of Surrendering Pain. Generally used for physical pain, but can also help us if we resist addressing the emotions that underlie our pain. Gives us strength to observe our pain but stay calm, cool & collected to face it. Transformation is possible when we excavate what lies beneath our outward expression. Allows us to see pain as a teacher as we let go of resistance….it dissipates. Used in today’s to help us begin pulling out what lies beneath any misalignment in our lives so that we can make conscious change where needed, when we are ready.

BALANCE BLEND

PHYSICAL–Blend of Spruce, Frankincense, Blue Tansy, HoWood and Blue Chamomile. Designed to help us ground our emotional and physical body –to keep us centered or balanced about whatever challenges cross our life’s path. Soothes and relaxes sore muscles and joints. Assists the nervous system to remain healthy and balanced. Harmonizing blend –connecting body, mind and spirit together and calming anxious feelings. Frankincense in the blend is known to support cellular health and overall well being.

EMOTIONAL— The Oil of Grounding. Calming tree and flower oils that brings tranquility to our spirit. Helps us reconnect or settle into our “roots”–very important to help those who spend a lot of time thinking, speaking or in spiritual activity. Good for those who tend to avoid long-term commitments to root down like a tree rather than finding themselves drifting on to the next thing, with the wind. Applying it helps us stay present in the moment to achieve our longer term goals –as a tree grows slowly over time.

To purchase the essential oils needed for this class, just click here. The oils can be used in so many versatile ways and included in your investment is a personalized virtual wellness coaching session with me to learn how to use them in your daily life, not just on the mat. To take a peek at the may ways you can incorporate essential oils into your life, check out this gorgeous and free ebook on the basics.

The Gentle Yoga Practice to accompany these essential oils can be found here. Enjoy!

Glowing Face Serum

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Let’s face it aging is something that must be embraced but I think it can be done with a little help along the way, too. I have noticed as my skin ages, it has lost some elasticity and has found some fine lines. I have experimented with a bunch of serums, creams, masks and the like, but always return to this serum because it is natural, smells amazing and gives my face a glorious glow,

We know that florals are going to be the best essential oils for the skin and this combo does not disappoint. I find it to be just what my skin is looking for. The neat thing is if you do not have all these oils, no worries, just use the ones you do have until you get the others.

INGREDIENTS:

DIRECTIONS:

Apply at least a nickel size amount to your face and neck. For an even better response, try a gua sha method or rose quartz facial roller.

To learn more about the many uses of essential oils beyond skin care, check out this free gorgeous ebook.

Photo by Karolina Grabowska on Pexels.com

DIY Lip Sugar Scrub

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Oh my goodness winter weather is here and it is playing havoc on my otherwise soft lips! After some trial and error I think I have crafted the best version of a lip scrub with simple ingredients. Plus, when you use a DIY lip scrub, it removes the dead tissue from the skin and it will leave them feeling softer and smoother. It helps to neutralize lip discoloration, moisturize and help your lips look fuller.

This lip scrub also makes a fun activity for a spa birthday party or a great Valentine’s Day gift for friends. Because the ingredients are natural, you can feel good about whipping up a batch to gift to teachers, neighbors, and anyone that might enjoy some softer skin this winter.

It is super easy and you can customize it to your own aroma liking….although lemon, wild orange or eucalyptus are all pretty amazing! And for extra fun and plumping action, try peppermint or spearmint!

INGREDIENTS

  • 2 tbsp coconut oil
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • 10-14 drops of essential oil
  • 1/2 tsp grapeseed oil


INSTRUCTIONS

  • Combine ingredients and stir until blended.
  • Store in an airtight container. I really like these cute little jars.
Photo by Polina Kovaleva on Pexels.com

Seasonal Support

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I hate to see people suffer! If you or a loved one struggles with seasonal threats and are looking to promote a healthy respiratory system, then the package below is a must for your LRP.

TriEase® Softgels (20 PV) – TriEase Softgels can be consumed safely on a daily basis during times of seasonal discomfort to promote clear breathing and overall respiratory health. **10% off this month!!

d?TERRA® Breathe® (20 PV) – d?TERRA® Breathe is a remarkable blend of essential oils including Laurel Leaf, Peppermint, Eucalyptus, Melaleuca, Lemon, Ravensara, and Cardamom which maintains feelings of clear airways and easy breathing while minimizing the effects of seasonal threats. d?TERRA® Breathe can be applied topically to the chest, back, bottom of feet, or diffused at nighttime to calm the senses and promote a restful sleep.

TerraShield® (10.50 PV) – TerraShield Outdoor Blend contains powerful essential oils and other plant oils known to provide outdoor protection in a natural, safe way. This newly updated formula contains a select blend of essential oils including Ylang Ylang, Cedarwood, Catnip, Lemon Eucalyptus, Litsea, Arborvitae, Nootka, and Vanilla Bean Absolute—all of which possess specific chemical compounds known to protect against environmental annoyances.

Lavender Oil (21 PV) – Lavender is often considered a must-have oil to keep on hand at all times due to its versatile uses, including calming and relaxing, promoting peaceful sleep, and easing feelings of tension. Put a few drops on your feet and chest or belly to promote healthy histamine levels against seasonal threats. Diffusing lavender with peppermint is also amazing!

d?TERRA® Breathe® Respiratory Drops (14.50 PV) – d?TERRA® Breathe Respiratory Drops are formulated from specific oils from d?TERRA® Breathe proprietary blend and are wonderful aids in promoting clear airways and supporting respiratory health.

Please let me know if you have any questions.

*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.

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Why a Carrier Oil?

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When using essential oils topically, I prefer to blend with fractionated coconut oil. FCO is odorless, non-greasy, absorbs easily and doesn’t go rancid quickly. I use roller bottles for essential oils I use often; this gives me oils with a carrier and helps to stretch out my oils over time.

Why use a carrier?

Although essential oils are readily absorbed, there are many ways to increase absorption. Using a light massage will increase the blood flow to the area of application, in turn improving distribution throughout the body. Also, use of a carrier oil can also increase absorption, especially in skin that is dry or flaky as it helps moisturize the skin and slow evaporation of the oil. Giving the essential oil a carrier to “grab” onto will also prevent the molecules of the EO to evaporate before going deep into the skin for benefit.

To decrease the likelihood of developing a skin sensitivity, especially on young or sensitive skin, it is advisable to use a carrier oil to dilute more potent oils and when trying an oil for the first time. The recommend dilution ratio is typically one drop of essential oil to three drops of carrier oil.It’s always advisable to use several small doses throughout the day rather than a single large dose. Start with the lowest possible dose (1–2 drops). A topical dose can be repeated every 4–6 hours as needed. Because every individual is unique, the dose will vary for each individual based on size, age, and overall health status.

Beneficial Areas You Can Apply Essential Oils:

•Neck
•Forehead and temples
•Chest and abdomen
•Arms, legs, bottom of feet.

Be cautious and avoid some facial areas, such as the skin around the eyes, and broken, damaged, or otherwise injured skin.

Interested in learning more? Check out this handy guide.

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