Spotlight On:Frankincense

With the arrival of advent looming, what better way to start the season than than with a spotlight on Frankincense?! 

If it's good enough for the baby Jesus, than it's good enough for me!

'Frankincense is considered the 'holy anointing oil' in the Middle East and has been used in religious ceremonies for thousands of years. "Used to treat every conceivable ill known to man," frankincense was valued more than gold during ancient times and only those with great wealth and abundance possessed it.'

('Frankincense' in Essential Oils Pocket Reference, 6th edn. U.S.: Life Science Publishing, 2014. p. 69)

Frankincense is now a common oil used during mediation both by individuals and groups to aid in spiritual connections. I diffuse during my quiet prayer/study time.

Here are some of the ways that I use Frankincense every day:

1. Apply 1 drop on wrists and temples to help relieve occasional nervous irritability.

2. Diffuse or rub 1-2 drops diluted, with a carrier oil of your choice, to help provide a comforting aroma for children at night especially when in a new environment.

3. Rub 1-2 drops diluted to comfort itchy skin.

4. Frankincense can help soothe achy joints.

5. Homemade Face-cream - Frankincense is also a valuable ingredient in Young Living’s skin care products for ageing and dry skin. The Ancient Egyptians used it in rejuvenation face masks. Here is the recipe I use for my face cream which I use each morning and every evening. 

(NB. You whip coconut oil when in it's solid form. I use an electric hand whisk.)

6. On Scars and Stretch Marks - I use the same lotion as above because I have it on hand, but you can just dilute frankincense in a carrier oil and apply directly to the affected area.

7. Warts - We recently got rid of a wart that Little Man had by applying a drop morning and night directly onto the wart, undiluted. It began shrinking after about five days and was completely gone within ten!

8. Immune Booster - Now we're heading in to winter I alternate between Frankincense and Thieves on everyone's feet at least once a day to build up immunity support and keep germs at bay.

9. To Aid Spiritual Connections - Frankincense is now a common oil used during mediation both by individuals and groups to aid in spiritual connections.  It is fantastic when diffused during a Yoga session.

I diffuse during my quiet prayer/study time.

You can read more about how not all essential oils are created equal here.

How to get hold of this oil

If you would like to purchase a bottle at wholesale price or would like a free sample please do contact me. Alternatively, please see our Wellness Toolkit page for the best ways to join Young Living and the amazing Essential Families team with over 5000 members.

Spotlight On: NingXia Red

I am on day two of a gruelling diet that my body totally needs. My head is in the game, I'm in it for the long haul. One thing that is keeping my energy up since i'm no longer on caffeine is this glorious liquid...

The NingXia wolfberry has been used for thousands of years to boost the immune system, promote longevity and naturally detox the body. NingXia Red contains a great whole food source of protein, fiber, minerals and vitamins along with the therapeutic grade essential oils of yuzu, lemon, tangerine and orange. NingXia Red contains natural antioxidants which protect the body against free radicals.

Young Living's specially formulated NingXia Red juice incorporates the tastes and benefits of wolf berry puree (juice, peel, seeds, and fruit, to maintain more of the health-supporting benefits), plum, cherry, pomegranate, aronia berry and blue berry juices, as well as therapeutic grade essential oils into a powerful antioxidant and nutritionally balanced drink.

B E N E F I T S

Pure, Therapeutic Grade Essential Oils

Orange (Citrus sinensis), yuzu (Citrus junos), tangerine (Citrus reticulata), and lemon (Citrus limon).

These carefully selected oils, including orange and lemon are known for their ability to help maintain normal cellular regeneration. They also contain high levels of the powerful antioxidant d-limonene, which is an important marker for bioactivity. Bioactives are natural compounds that work in harmony with your body to promote the healthy function of a wide variety of systems. NingXia Red also features tangerine essential oil, prized for its fresh flavor and its effect on maintaining cholesterol levels already in the normal range. Exotic yuzu essential oil has been included for its uniquely delicious aroma, flavor, and high antioxidant content.

These pure and potent essential oils blend synergistically and deliciously with the other components of NingXia Red to support normal digestive health, healthy immune function, normal brain function, a healthy cardiovascular system, and so much more. No other nutrient-infused beverage can come close to the beneficial essential oil content of NingXia Red!

Wolfberry (Goji)

The wolfberries sourced for NingXia Red hail from the Ningxia province in northern China - hence the name! This superfruit has one of the highest percentages of fiber of any whole food and contains zeaxanthin—a carotenoid which is important for maintaining healthy vision. It also contains polysaccharides, amino acids, and symbiotic vitaminmineral pairs that when present together promote optimum internal absorption. By using whole wolfberry puree—juice, peel, seeds, and fruit—Young Living is able to maintain more of the desired health-supporting benefits in every bottle (or sachet) of NingXia Red.

Supporting Juices

Grape (Vitis vinifera) seed extract, blueberry (Caccinium corymbosum), plum (Prunus domestica), aronia (Aronia melanocarpa), cherry (Prunus avium), and pomegranate (Punica granatrum) juices

Highlighting the supporting fruits found in NingXia Red is a patented grape seed extract that contain polyphenolic compounds that may help support a healthy cardiovascular system. Additionally blueberry, plum, aronia, cherry, and pomegranate juices contain naturally high levels of anthocyanins and polyphenols, which block oxygen-based free radicals from damaging body tissues. Maintaining a diet rich in these powerful antioxidants is a recommended way to help prevent a myriad of health risks and maintain healthy bodily functions.

NingXia Red, infused with the juices of these powerhouse fruits and pure, therapeutic-grade essential oils, has a Super Oxygen Radical Absorption Capacity (S-ORAC) score making it one of the most antioxidant-rich beverages available.

Natural Stevia Sweetener

Stevia is a zero-calorie sweetener and is 300 times sweeter than sugar, allowing for a delightfully delicious beverage with lower overall sugar content.

Here is my amazing afternoon pick-me-up recipe, loved by all members of the family:

2-4oz is the recommended daily dose and works out at less than a cup of coffee - and is of course, so much better for you!

To get your hands on this amazing health-supporting drink then check out this page and choose the NingXia starter pack. If you are already a Young Living Member then just add it to your next order - the NingXia Essential Rewards kit is by far the best value for money.

If you require any further info then please Contact Me.

How do you take your NingXia juice?

 [embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CQ7bwhtx6DM[/embed]

Why I Use Essential Oils

WHAT ARE ESSENTIAL OILS ?

Essential oils are volatile (easily evaporated) liquids and aromatic compounds found within shrubs, flowers, trees, roots, bushes and seeds that are usually extracted through steam distillation.

In their pure state essential oils are some of the most concentrated natural extracts known. Have you ever thought of a plant having its own immune system? Each plant contains unique oils protecting it from pathogenic microorganisms (think, fungi, bacteria, etc.) and plant injuries. Essential oil have been around for thousands of years. Mentioned in the Bible some 200 times and in ancient medical tests; today they are fast becoming much more than the aromatherapy of the 1970's. Science is continually the multifaceted aspects of true 100% therapeutic, medical, clinically potent and pure essential oils.

WHY USE ESSENTIAL OILS ?

To enhance your physical and mental wellness:

I truly believe in looking after our whole selves not just parts; in creating a Wellness Toolkit. For me, essential oils are an integral part of my kit.

While some essential oils may uplift the spirits, others may empower you to release negative thoughts and habits.

Essential oils can be your key to a more fulfilling and balanced emotional life. From cleansing and weight management to supporting every system of the body, essential oils and essential oil-infused supplements can provide the balance you need to get your health back on track.

If you want to see how I've used essential oils on my journey with PCOS see here.

To clean and purify your home:

I am slowly eliminating harsh chemicals from my home and in particular in cleaning products and replacing them with natural cleaners. I use essential oils every day in my cleaning routine. Not only do I get therapeutic benefits from using these oils while cleaning, but I am saving so much money too!

If you're interested in learning How To Create A Toxin-Free Home Without Breaking The Bank (Or Using Much Effort) then register for our FREE online event  on 9th November here.

Prevention:

We use essential oils for the prevention of illness.

Whenever my kids are exposed to bugs at school, or in the community, I turn to Thieves oil (and many others) to give them some immune support.

I also use essential oils in my daily beauty regime and to keep my body looking and feeling healthy!

Essential oils are a tool to be used in preventing illness and in turn promoting health. You can check out my 'Living With Oils' pinboard where I pin all of my favourite remedies and recipes.

WHY YOUNG LIVING ?

YOUNG LIVING INSPIRES WELLNESS, PURPOSE AND ABUNDANCE BY DISTILLING NATURE'S GREATEST GIFTS INTO PURE ESSENTIAL OILS. WITH A COMMITMENT TO PLANT PURITY AND ESSENTIAL OIL POTENCY, YOUNG LIVING CONTINUES TO GROW; INSPIRING MILLIONS OF PEOPLE TO TRANSFORM THEIR LIVES. WHAT STARTED OUT AS A SMALL BUSINESS IN 1993, HAS BEEN PROPELLED INTO THE HIGHEST ACCOLADE OF 'WORLD LEADER'S OF ESSENTIAL OILS'. YOU CAN BE ASSURED WHEN YOU ARE USING YOUNG LIVING PRODUCTS THAT YOU ARE GETTING THE BEST OF THE BEST ! YOUNG LIVING OWN THEIR OWN FARMS, ALL OVER THE WORLD...AND THEY TAKE GREAT PRIDE IN THEIR FARMING PRACTISES, WHICH ARE BEYOND ORGANIC. 

YOU CAN LEARN MORE ABOUT THEIR FARMING PRACTISES AT WWW.SEEDTOSEAL.COM

If you would like to learn more about essential oils, then browse this site, feel free to get in contact with me and check out the 'Wellness Toolkit' page.

Spotlight On: Thieves Household Cleaner

Are you looking to create a toxin-free home ? Do you worry about letting the kids help you clean because of the chemicals ? Then register for my free online training event today - REGISTER HERE


Have I told you lately how much I love Thieves? 

Did you know that there is a whole range of products containing Thieves?

I use all of these products, as do my family. But I have a love affair with the Thieves household cleaner. I love that I only need one cleaner for everything, I don't need to wear those oh so flattering marigold gloves, I'm breathing in essential oils that will benefit my health, not chemicals that won't.

Why use Thieves Essential Oil Household Cleaner to do all your Household Cleaning?

Thieves Cleaner is:

• A non- toxic cleaner made with natural surfactants and therapeutic oils;
• An environmentally friendly product that has organic and biodegradable materials;
• A multipurpose concentrate that should be diluted for various applications;
• Highly effective in supporting the immune system and good health, since it contains the unique Young Living Thieves blend of essential oils;

As well as cleaning the house, the bathroom, carpets and all else in between, I also use it to clean windows, the car and so much more. It is very effective as a cleaner for the dishwasher and washing machine when mixed with white vinegar. A capful is also particularly effective when added to a heavily soiled load of washing.

The following is a basic guide to the Thieves household cleaner.

To purchase this, or any other Young Living product with 24% off R.R.P. please follow this link.

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Thieves Household Cleaner™

What is in Thieves Household Cleaner?

There are several natural ingredients as well as five therapeutic grade essential oils in Thieves Cleaner. 

The natural ingredients include:

• Deionized Water
• Alkyl Polyglucoside
• Sodium Methyl 2-Sulfolaurate derived from coconut
• Disodium 2- Sulfolaurate
• Soy Lecithin (a natural emulsifier)

Sodium Methyl 2-Sulfolaurate and Disodium 2-Sulfolaurate are natural plant based surfactants that do not raise any health concerns. There are no restrictions and/or warnings about these compounds - Awesome!

The essential oils are listed below along with a brief description of each oil:

• Clove (Syzygium Aromaticum) may help boost immunity,and promote oral health. Clove is also the highest ranked natural antioxidant. This is a crucial ingredient to the Thieves blend because of it has immune enhancing properties.
• Lemon (Citrus limon) Lemon consists of 68 percent d-limonene, a powerful antioxidant; and may be beneficial for the skin. It has cleansing and purifying properties.   Jean Valnet MD estimated that it takes 3,000 lemons to produce one kilo of oil.
• Cinnamon Bark (Cinnamomum verum)  This oil may help to stimulate the immune system, which helps to maintain welness and energy; and may promote a healthy cardiovascular system.
• Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus radiata) may be used to support the respiratory system; and to soothe muscle discomfort after exercise - hence it's use in steam rooms and Spa's.
• Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis CT cineol) is one of the plants most written about in ancient texts and used throughout history. It may help to stimulate hair growth and may aid in focusing the mind.

How do I use it?

Each bottle of the Thieves Cleaner contain diluting instructions as follows:

• General Cleaning: 30:1 (water/solution)
• Heavy Degreasing: 15:1 (water/solution)
• Light Degreasing: 50:1 (water/solution)
• Glass Cleaning: 50-100:1 (water/solution)
• Dishwasher: Add 1 capful to the bottom of the dishwasher.
• Floors: Add 1 capful to 6 to 6 ½ cups water (depending on what is needed).
• Carpet: Add 1 capful to 6 to 6 ½ cups water (depending on what is needed).
• Washing Machine/Laundry: Add 1-3 capfuls depending on the size of the load.

In the Thieves Essential Rewards Kit (that came in my February Essential Rewards order) you get two bottles which are each 426ml. One of these bottles lasts me six months and as I say I use it for everything, so not only is it a natural products that benefits you as you clean but you can save money too!

This video shows how to dilute the cleaner and talks a bit about the product:

To purchase this, or any other Young Living product with 24% off R.R.P. please follow this link and to read about building a Wellness Tool Kit, see here.

Thieves

W H Y  T H E  N A M E  T H I E V E S ?

It is rumoured that during the 15th century, a band of robbers stole from the dead and those dying from the plague without contracting the disease. When captured, they were asked to reveal their secret for staying healthy in exchange for a more lenient punishment. The thieves had been slathering themselves with a blend of these oils, hence the creation of Thieves oil. Fascinating!

Thieves is a blend consisting of Clove, Cinnamon Bark, Lemon, Rosemary and Eucalyptus oils; because of the Cinnamon and Clove, Thieves is considered a "hot" oil & should be diluted with a carrier such as coconut, olive oil, v-6, grapes, etc.

Thieves should be your number one go to oil in the fight against germs, while working to support healthy immune function too. This is an exceptional oil to use at any time of year, but particularly at the change of seasons.

Diffusing for thirty minutes each day is recommended during the 'germy' season since when tested at Weber State University, Ogden, Utah, thieves was found to have a 99.96 percent effective rate against airborne bacteria.

Diffusing daily will help to keep the house germ-free, but it doesn't mean you'll never get ill (unfortunately!).

Another great preventative is to make a Thieves roller and apply to the family's feet before putting socks on in the morning. This will help them remain germ-free during the day.

When someone's immune system is compromised remember consistency is vital to boosting it with essential oils. Up the amount of drops of thieves in the diffuser to around ten and diffuse around the clock.

This week on All in a Drop is thieves week so we'll be discussing the full range of thieves products which are great for becoming a chemical-free home and keeping everywhere and everyone as healthy as possible.

Have you got Thieves in your Wellness Toolkit yet ?

Sharing is Caring

Testimony is a powerful thing. Testimonies speak to us because they are personal, they let us know that we're alone and they promote hope. 

Part of the oily family I belong to have Testimony Tuesdays on, you guessed it, Tuesday's ! 

Here's the one I did. I hope you find it personal. I hope it helps you know you're not alone and I hope it shows you there is always hope. 

THIEVES CLEANER

Thieves Household Cleaner is simply amazing.  If creating all sorts of different cleaners isn’t your thing, try purchasing the large container of this cleaner that harnesses the power of Thieves essential oil blend.

This cleaner contains Lemon, Clove, Cinnamon, Rosemary and Eucalyptus.  It is incredibly versatile, on top of being all natural, plant based and toxin free.  It comes in a concentrated bottle that you then dilute and use according to desired strength.  

Here are some good basic guidelines for diluting and using the cleaner:

    •    General cleaning: 1 capful to 3 cups water

    •    Medium messes: 1 capful to 2 cups water

    •    Really greasy: 1 capful to 1 cup water

    •    Also combine with bicarbonate of  soda for an excellent scrubbing paste.  

I use Thieves cleaner for absolutely everything: bathrooms, windows, counters, laundry, dishes, oven, showers, toilets, carpets and more!

One 64oz bottle lasts me just over a year. That covers cleaning EVERYTHING in a mid-sized three bed house with two adults and three children. 

WHY BE GREEN (in our homes and environments, not with envy !) ?

There are so many pollutants and toxic chemicals in our world today.  Most of which we have no control over.  However, we can control what is used in our homes!

Did you know that:

    •    Fumes from some cleaning products may induce asthma in otherwise healthy individuals. A large and growing body of evidence links frequent use of many ordinary cleaning supplies at home or on the job with development of asthma and other respiratory problems. It is already known that cleaning product fumes may trigger attacks in persons previously diagnosed with asthma.

    •    Common cleaning ingredients can be laced with the carcinogenic impurity 1,4-dioxane. Independent tests have detected the presence of 1,4-dioxane in numerous name-brand cleaning supplies. Other products contain preservatives that release low levels of cancer-causing formaldehyde.

    •    Children born to women who held cleaning jobs while pregnant have an elevated risk of birth defects, according to a 2010 study by the New York State Department of Health.

    •    Some cleaners can cause chemical burns and poisonings as well as less severe irritations and allergies. Severe physical reactions signal that consumers should take care anytime they use these products.

    •    Despite these health concerns, cleaning product labels often do not give consumers enough information about their ingredients to allow people to make informed decisions on which ones are safer and which ones might harm their health.

    •    Although government scientific and regulatory agencies have focused considerable attention on chemicals suspected of causing cancer, they have devoted far fewer resources to evaluating substances that may be toxic to the brain and nervous system, the hormone system and other organs. Investigating the full range of risks of cleaning products to public health and the environment should be an urgent priority. Yet the problem remains largely hidden from the view of the American consumer.

Chemicals used in pesticides and in synthetic veterinary drugs - including antibiotics and growth hormones - are prohibited under ORGANIC regulations, but not for non-organic meats. These then enter our own bodies and effect us without us really knowing how.

On average women will use or come into contact with 168 potentially dangerous chemicals, daily and men 85 !

You can find more information on the Environmental Working Group website. 

SO, WHAT CAN WE DO ABOUT IT?

CLEANING TIPS

Our tips and safety guidelines do not include any dangerous or harmful warnings.  However, there are a few things to keep in mind when cleaning with YL products, including essential oils:

    •    Shake products before use.

    •    Test cleaners in small areas first.

    •    Spray nozzles fit perfectly onto old vinegar bottles.  Use these to create cleaning sprays.

    •    Store products in airtight glass or stainless steel containers.

    •    Keep away from eyes.

 It’s really important to say here too, that this journey does not need to be overwhelming. Take small steps. My best piece of advice, and one that I followed myself, is to change out one product at a time. Whether that’s your hand wash, your shampoo, your beauty products or your cleaners, it doesn’t matter. Just start somewhere.

Check out the RECIPES page for a growing list of tried and tested recipes.