Healing With Fennel Oil

G'morning!  I *hope* today finds you in good health and good spirits. I slept well last night and am ready to start this day.

I would also like to say, essential oils can be wonderful, but please talk to your doctor before using any oils, especially if you are taking medications, as these can react to one another. 

 I am just giving you information, it is up to you to do your own investigating to determine if essential oils are safe for you as an individual.

Today I am going to share with you the herb Fennel, it's a versatile aromatherapy oil that regulates and balances your bod's system. Fennel is to be used sparingly as prolonged use could potentially do more harm than good.

So if you would like to (or have a need to) balance your hormones, ease water retention and aid digestion, then you are in the right place.

Read on m'friends, then have a wonderful day!

~Peace~

Healing With Fennel

Warming and stimulating Fennel is a great digestive tonic. The seeds of the herb are crushed to give a strongly scented, sweet, peppery oil. It has an enlivening, energizing and revitalizing effect on the mind and body but needs to be used sparingly.

Fennel's main action is on the digestion, where it has a regulating and "unblocking" action, effective in relieving nausea, indigestion, constipation and flatulence. ( I know a few people that could really use this oil!)

Use Fennel to detoxify your body as it acts as a tonic for the kidneys, liver and spleen. It is also a diuretic, promoting the flow of urine and helping to reduce fluid retention in tissues, so it is especially useful before your period. Fennel also helps regulate your periods.

Active Ingredients Of Fennel Oil

Fennel Oil is mainly composed of Phenolic Ethers and Keontes with traces of Aldehydes and Monoterpenes. This makes it a very potent oil which can have dramatic effects. It is best used in low concentrations.



Ketones~Around 15% of Fennel oil is made up of the Ketone Fenchone. Ketones have analgesic and digestive properties but can be hazardous if used over prolonged periods of time or in high doses. Take extra care with the oil, especially when using it in massage blends.

Phenolic Ethers~The oils principle chemicals are Anethole and Methyl Chavicol. These are highly antiseptic and stimulate the immune and nervous systems. They are also neurotoxic and potentially carcinogenic. As over 70% of Fennel oil is made up of these compounds, the oil should be used sparingly.

Using Fennel Oil

I am going to put these blends down, but again please use sparingly and talk to your doctor first before using!

Regulating Periods~To treat irregular periods, apply to your abdomen a compress soaked in a large bowl of water containing:

• 2 drops Basil
• 2 drops Fennel
• 2 drops Melissa

As A General Tonic For The Reproductive System~Massage the stomach and back with:

• 4 drops Cypress
• 4 drops Clary Sage
• 2 drops Fennel
• 2 tbsp Sweet Almond

Circulation Stimulant

Ease Swollen Feet~Cypress acts as a tonic to the circulatory system  complimenting Fennel's "moving" action. Ease Puffy swollen feet and ankles with:

• 5 drops Cypress
• 5drops Fennel
• 1 tbsp Grapeseed

Relieve Painful Gout~Gently massage with:

• 3 drops Fennel
• 6 Juniper
• 6 drops Lemon
• 2 tbsp Grapeseed

Okay.....this is a short post today.....again I stress; Please read the whole post before using as there are often warnings. Please talk to your doctor before using. I am only giving information here and different oils have different cautions for different people. So please be cautious.



Healing With Eucalyptus

Happy hump day everyone...this intro is going to be short..I have got a Dr. appointment this morning so let's dive right in shall we?

~Peace~

Healing With Eucalyptus

The medicinal properties of Eucalyptus have been used for centuries by Australian Aborigines. Today, Eucalyptus's powerful antiseptic properties are valued all over the world.

Eucalyptus oil is distilled from partially dried leaves and twigs of the "Blue Gum" Eucalyptus tree. The oil has a pungent camphorous scent and blends well with other tree oils, such as Cedarwood and pine, and refreshing antiseptic oils, such as lemon and thyme.

Eucalyptus's warming and drying  properties are effective in treating all respiratory disorders. Its decongestive action is especially effective as a steam inhalation. It fights infections, reduces fevers and soothes inflammation of the respiratory tract. It stimulates the nervous system, combats tiredness and promotes concentration.

Active Ingredients Of Eucalyptus Oil

There are over 500 varieties of Eucalyptus oil. These have different chemical compositions. The most commonly used is the "Blue Gum", Eucalyptus Globulus.

Oxides~Eucalyptol, also known as Cinerole, is a potent Oxide that stimulates the respiratory and digestive systems. It is responsible for the oil's camphorous scent , which has expectorant properties.

Monoterpenes~Eucalyptus contains antiviral Limonene and antiseptic Pinene.

Alcohols~The alcohol Citronellol is present in Eucalyptus oil in small quantities. Citronellol has an antiseptic, warming and uplifting effect.

Cleansing Aroma

Using Eucalyptus as an incense is a simple way to benefit from its antiseptic qualities. As the Eucalyptus burns, it releases its antiseptic ingredients into the air, disinfecting the room and masking unsavory odors.

• 
  
  Place some charcoal into a burner and light. Sprinkle with loose Eucalyptus incense and allow to burn gently.

Soothing Balm

Simply melt a tbsp of Vaseline by placing it in a bowl  over a pan of hot water, and add:

• 
  
  6 drops Eucalyptus oil
• 
  
  2 drops Peppermint oil

Rub a little of this balm under your nose to clear your sinuses, especially at night. A little rubbed on your lips helps heal cold sores.

Combat Cystitis

The antiseptic properties of Eucalyptus make it an excellent remedy for infections, particularly of the urinary tract. Combat painful Cystitis with a soothing daily massage over the lower back, abdomen nad hips.

For a gentle massage oil, blend the following:

• 
  
  2 tbsp Sweet Almond
• 
  
  4 drops Eucalyptus
• 
  
  4 drops Neroli

Relieve Pain



The antiseptic action of Eucalyptus makes it a versatile medicinal oil. Applied as a compress, Eucalyptus soothes inflammation and can be used to relieve muscular aches and rheumatic pains.

For Sprains and Strains~Add the following to a cold compress and apply:

• 
  
  3 drops Eucalyptus
• 
  
  6 drops Lavender

Steam Inhalation

Dispel Congestion~Add the following to a bowl of hot water, cover your head with a towel and breath in deeply.

• 
  
  3 drops Eucalyptus
• 
  
  3 drops Lemon
• 
  
  3 drops Pine

Wow, I think I did today's post in record time! Hope you enjoyed it...now I am off to the Doc...!



Healing With Cypress Oil

G'morning! I am not sure how your weather is, but here it is raining and humid! Have you come down with the end of summer cold yet? If you have do, don't  despair, just read on and learn how Cypress oil can help you.....

~Peace~

Healing With Cypress Oil

Calming and cooling, the oil of the Cypress is valued for it's refreshing, astringent actions. The oil is steam-distilled from the leaves, twigs and cones of the Evergreen tree and has a sharp, clear, slightly spicy aroma, with green resinous undertones.

Cypress calms and comforts your nervous system. At the same time, it invigorates and fortifies your emotions. It can sooth anger and is strengthening during times of transition and upheaval.

Cypress's vasoconstricting action improves circulation, especially for varicose veins. It is astringent nad balances body fluids. Combined with Juniper and Citrus, it can help reduce cellulite and perspiration.

Colds and respiratory infections benefit from its antispasmodic properties and it's also a valuable oil for relieving aches and pains.

Active Ingredients Of Cypress Oil

Monoterpenes~Various Monoterpenes make up a max. of 70% of the content of Cypress oil, including Camphene, Cymene and Pirene. This chemical family is stimulating and balancing to the mind as well as to the body.

Alcohols~Cypress oil also contains about 10% alcohols, which are toning, energizing and stimulating.

Uses Of Cypress Oil

Respiratory Healer

For A Spasmodic Cough~Massage the chest and neck with:

• 5 drops Cypress
• 2 drops Cedarwood
• 2 tbsp Grapeseed oil

This will have a drying effect on phlegm and Cedarwood is an expectorant.

Congestion~Add the following to a room vaporizer at night when suffering from congestion. this will help aid breathing and act as a decongestant:

• 1-2 drops Cypress
• 1-2 drops Rosemary



To Tone Circulation And Fluids

Cypress has a balancing action on the body's fluids and tones the circulation.

Flush Away Toxins~Blend the following and massage:

• 4 drops Cypress
• 4 drops Fennel
• 2 drops Juniper
• 2 tbsp Sweet Almond

For Swollen Feet And Ankles~Try a pebble foot bath for an effective remedy for swollen feet and ankles. Place smooth, round pebbles in a bowl of warm water:

• 2 drops Cypress
• 2 drops Lavender

Roll the soles of your feet over the pebbles to soothe...

Cypress For The Monthly Cycle

Cypress is toning on the uterus, giving relief from painful periods

Painful Flow~Reduce excessive and painful menstrual flow by gently massaging the abdomen and lower back. Blend the following:

• 4 drops Cypress
• 3 drops Geranium
• 3 drops of Rose
• 2 tbsp carrier oil

Hot Flashes~Combine and use for massage the following:

• 5 drops Rose
• 3 drops Cypress
• 2 tbsp Sweet Almond

Deodorizing

Sweet-Smelling Feet~Combat sweating feet by blending:

• 10 drops Cypress
• 12 drops Peppermint
• 8 drops Citronella
• 3 oz unscented talcum powder

Leave for a few days then add to shoes.

Kitchen Cleaner~Use Cypress's antibacterial action and clean, sharp scent n the kitchen. Add several drops of Cypress oil to a bowl of water to rinse surfaces.

Wow Cypress does alot...I truely believe the Gods and Goddesses have given us all we need to heal ourselves naturally, and it's nice to make your own remedies, as you know what is in them. Quit a few store-bought ready made oil blends have added color enhancers to make them look pretty, do you really need that? Just a thought....

Featured Artist Tuesday!

G'morning! Well it's Tuesday again and you know what that means! Yup, Featured Artist Tuesday...

Today I have a wonderful lady who works very hard at her creations and even harder helping others to get thier creations out to the world to see and love. I really admire her for her selflessness....so can I have a drumroll please..............

Our Featured Artist Today is

Anne Hopfer of Made For Me By Oaklie

My Name is Anne Hopfer aka Made for Me by Oaklie. I was born in Schweinfurt, Germany and came to the United States at 10 mos old. I have a wonderful sister and brother and was raised by very loving parents. I now live in Utah with my husband, mother and brother and our 5 furry children.

I decided to take the plunge in 2008 and start selling my scarves on line when I became part of the "Statistics". It has been such an exciting journey. Although it is a 24/7 job to stay on top of things.. I love every minute of it!

I love to knit with the unusual and textured yarns the most. I also love the intense colors and am always on the hunt for new and exciting yarns.

 Many of my scarves are truly unique in that I design as I go.. if you asked me to make another it would be tough as I don't follow any patterns!

I have met some wonderful Artisans in my journey online. All very talented too! I started a "Great Finds" page on my website featuring my fellow artisans and now a group on Facebook called On Fire for Handmade!

I also have a shop called My Helping Hands Graphic Designs. I create custom avatars, banner, ads and more there. I have done some labels and business cards as well as some PR service and the help with some websites too.

You can find Made By Oaklie by clicking on the following links:

 

www.madeformebyoaklie.com

www.madeformebyoaklie.blogspot.com

www.madeformebyoaklie.artfire.com

www.madeformebyoaklie.etsy.com

www.twitter.com/madebyoaklie

www.facebook.com/pages/made-for-me-by-oaklie/102558979013

How To Use Fruit Carrier Oils

G'morning my super-duper wonderful followers!

First off this morning, I would like to thank Amanda Nicole for her order from my shop! She ordered my Snowy Agate and Turquoise memory wire bracelet.

Thanks so much Amanda! Your order helps me keep doing what I love to do!

I am going to take a break from the specific oils today to share some info on using fruit carrier oils, these oils are extracted from fruits, such as grapes and peaches (mmmm...I can smell it already!) and are the most versatile bases for your homemade aromatherapy oils! So read on my info gathering friend, and have a wonderful day, and don't forget to stop and sniff the oils!

~Peace~

How To Use Fruit Carrier Oils

Many of the carrier oils used as bases for aromatherapy blends are extracted from fruits. Unlike nut and wheat oils, fruit-based oils rarely cause allergic reactions and are therefore suitable for use on virtually all skin types. This also makes the ma good choice for use in massage, in which lots of oil is used over wide areas of the body. When preparing blends of oils for massage, add a maximum of 5 drops of essential oil per tbsp of carrier oil..

The carrier oil can form more than 95% of a massage blend, so be sure to choose the right one! The most common fruit-based carrier oils are:

• 
  
  Avocado
• 
  
  Apricot
• 
  
  Grapeseed
• 
  
  Peach

All of which are beneficial to the skin in their own right.

Active Ingredients Of Fruit-Based Carrier Oils

Fruit-based oils are packed full of vitamins-A, B-complex, C and in particular, E, Lipids and Linoleic Acid. All these ingredients are vital for nourishing the skin.

Vitamin E~This powerful antioxidant prevents free radicals from destroying  connective tissue, which gives skin its firmness. Vitamin E promotes healthy skin tone by slowing down the aging  process and repairing any damaged skin tissue.

Lipids~These natural fats have valuable lubrication and moisturizing qualities.

Linoleic Acid~Found especially in Grapeseed oil, Linoleic Acid helps to strengthen membranes and so ease dry skin and eczema.

The Best Uses of Fruit Oils

Facial

Facial massages with nourishing fruit oils suit most skin types but are especially beneficial for dry or sensitive skin. A 3-4 minute facial massage will improve the circulation and give skin a healthy glow. You can use a carrier oil alone for this or add the following essential oils to increase the massage's therapeutic effects on the skin.

For Dry/Mature Skin:

• 
  
  1 tbsp Apricot carrier oil
• 
  
  1 drop Geranium
• 
  
  1 drop Myrrh
• 
  
  2 drops Neroli

For Chapped Skin:

• 
  
  1 tbsp Avocado or Grapeseed carrier oil
• 
  
  3 drops Chamomile
• 
  
  3 drops Frankincense

For Oily Skin:

• 
  
  1 tbsp Avocado or Grapeseed carrier oil
• 
  
  2 drops Eucalyptus
• 
  
  2 drops Tea Tree

For Healthy Skin:

• 
  
  1 tbsp Avocado carrier oil
• 
  
  3 drops Geranium
• 
  
  4 drops Orange

Perfect Body Moisturizers~Lock in moisture after a bath or shower by rubbing  Grapeseed oil into your skin before you completely dry yourself off. Pay particular attention to any areas of dry and rough skin on your body such as your heels and elbows. Be sure to warm the oil up in your hand for a few seconds before applying.

Fruit Oils

Apricot~Apricot kernels produce large quantities of light-colored, non greasy oil. As a carrier base, it is rich in essential fatty acids and is easily absorbed by the skin. Apricot makes a luxurious moisturizing oil for use in facial massages for all skin types.

Avocado~ Avocado gives a rich oil packed with vitamins and minerals. It soothes dry and mature skins, and its antibiotic and antiviral properties make it helpful for problem skin.

Grapeseed~Grapeseed oil is smooth, odorless and virtually colorless. It is readily absorbed by the skin and leaves a satin finish without feeling oily. Grapeseed nourishes and moisturizes, and its astringent properties make it especially useful on young, oily skins. it is often used in beauty products for its toning and tightening effect.



Peachnut~Peachnut oil is fine textured with a delicate, sweet aroma. Cold-pressed from the fruit's kernel, it is a valuable skin care oil, particularly prized for gentleness on sensitive skin. Peachnut oil is rich in the antioxidant Vitamin E, which has anti-aging effects and promotes skin elasticity and suppleness.

Well I *hope* you enjoyed learning about fruit carrier oils as much as I enjoyed sharing it.

Have a wonderful day and don't forget to smile, someone could be falling in love with it for the first time or falling in love with it all over again. If you are having a rough day and forgetting to smile, smile inside and it will show on your face and in your aura.....

Healing With Clove OIl

G'day...if you came this morning, I apologize for not having today's post up.

I woke up at 2am with terrible heartburn. I had it for 5 hours, so finally this morning at 7am it ceased and I was able to get some much needed sleep. The benefit though, I must acknowledge, is that I was able to watch 5 hours of dvr'd season premiers...albeit in misery...lol...anyhoo...

If you like sweet and spicy, hate toothaches, and welcome warming stimulation to the mind and body, read on about Clove Oil....

~Peace~

Healing With Clove Oil

Clove trees are cultivated throughout the tropics and the dried flower buds are used to spice foods.  A potent oil is distilled from the buds, which is highly antiseptic and analgesic.

Use clove to teat a toothache, but always with caution. It can, even in low concentrations, irritate the skin and mucous membranes.

You can best benefit from Clove oil's infection-fighting properties by using it in a steam inhalation rather than massage blends. Clove vapors also ease breathing and digestive disorders. It strengthens the memory and blended with Rosemary, enhances concentration or lifts depression. It's also a good insect repellent nad , with Lemon and Eucalyptus, deter mosquitoes.



Active Ingredients Of Clove Oil

Eugenol~This principal component is a phenol, which makes up between 80-90% of the oil and provides it with its characteristic spicy odor.

Phenols~Phenols are very reactive compounds. They act as stimulants to the nervous system and are highly antiseptic and anti-bacterial. Phenols are also caustic, however. They can cause irritation to the skin and mucous membrane and can be toxic to the liver.

Using Clove Oil

Cleanse Your Home With Clove

Refresh And Deodorize Carpets~For an antiseptic and fragrant blend of aromatherapy oils, Blend:

• 10 drops Clove
• 20 drops Orange
• 20 drops Lavender
• 10oz Baking Soda

Pour into a plastic bag, seal and shake. Leave to infuse for 24 hours before sprinkling on carpets. Then, leave for an hour before vacuuming the room.

Repel Summer Insects~Hang lengths of ribbon in your open windows that have been soaked in:

• 3 drops Lemon
• 3 drops Lavender
• 3 drops Clove

Festive Winter Room Scent~Arrange pine cones in a bowl and add:

• 3 drops Clove
• 3 drops Cinnamon
• 8 drops Tangerine
• 8 drops Mandarin

Improve Dental Health

For A Severe Toothache~Make a hot compress by soaking a washcloth in hot water containing.

• 1 drop Clove
• 3 drops Chamomile
• 3 drops Lemon



Combat Bad Breath~For an antiseptic mouthwash, blend:

• 2 drops Clove
• 5 drops Tea Tree
• 4 drops Thyme
• 1 tbsp of vodka

Add 200ml of distilled water and shake. DO NOT SWALLOW



Fight Infections

Clove's natural antispasmodic and expectorant actions make it useful to use in the fight against winter chills , colds and digestive problems.

For A Cold Or Flu~Fumigate the house with this blend to prevent the spread of infection:

• 2 drops Clove
• 2 drops Cinnamon
• 10 drops Orange
• 1/2 c water

To Combat Diarrhea~Place a warm compress on the abdomen using a washcloth soaked in hot water containing:

• 3 drops Clove
• 3 drops Ginger
• 3 drops Peppermint

The Clove will kill germs and give pain relief, while Ginger and Peppermint will help to settle the digestion

Okay...well it feels like it took forever, and I do appreciate your patience, but I have actually finished today's post, and can breath a sigh of relief......

Have a wonderful day and enjoy your Clove oil!

Healing With Clary Sage

G'Morning!! Well, it's another rainy day here in Salem, Oregon. Oh but I do love the smell and sounds of the rain!

I know though that sometimes rain can be depressing for some, makes you feel blue....so today's post will be especially great for you....as Clary Sage boasts a multitude of beneficial actions that includes having a balancing effect on the mind and the emotions....so grab your coffee or tea, tighten up your robe's sash so you don't trip and check this out.....

~Peace~

Healing With Clary Sage



The aromatic leaves and flower tops of Clary Sage are steam-distilled to create a potent oil with remarkable sedative properties. Blended with Lavender, it is invaluable for easing depression and anxiety; by itself, it can help teat panic attacks, stress-induced headaches and muscular cramps, and it is an excellent tonic for the nervous system.

Clary Sage's primary action is on the female reproductive system. It mimics estrogen and regulates scanty periods and menopausal symptoms. Blended with Jasmine and Sandalwood oil, Clary Sage's euphoric action can help cure impotence.

An effective relaxant for tense and strained muscles, Clary Sage is also useful for people with high blood pressure.

Active Ingredients Of Clary Sage Oil

Esters~Clary Sage contains more than 70% Esters, such as Linalyl Acetate. These give Clary Sage its calming and sedative properties. They are also anti-spasmodic and digestive tonics. Clary Sage is remarkable for sore muscles due to this high content of Esters.

Alcohols~Clary Sage also contains alcohols including Linalool and Sclareol. These act as good general tonics and balancers and they are also warming and uplifting to the mind and body.



Using Clary Sage Oil

Soothe Respiratory Infections

 

To Treat A Sore Throat~Mix the following with a glass of warm water and gargle 2-3 times a day. These oils will help to fight bacterial infections. Do Not Gargle:

• 5 drops Tea Tree
• 2 drops Clary Sage



To Ease Nasal & Chest Infections~This is a great warming chest rub:

• 3 drops Lavender
• 3 drops Peppermint
• 3 drops Clary Sage
• 2 tbsp Sweet Almond Oil



Menstrual Regulator

Soothe Abdominal Cramps~Add the following to a warm bath:

• 3 drops Clary Sage
• 3 drops Marjoram
• 3 drops Chamomile

Regulate Scanty Periods~Use the following as a daily abdominal massage:

• 3 drops Clary Sage
• 3 drops Myrrh
• 1 drop Fennel
• 2 tbsp Grapeseed

Balance Menopausal Symptoms~Blend the following and use as a massage:

• 3 drops Clary Sage
• 3 drops Rose
• 3 drops Geranium
• 2 tbsp carrier oil

Ease Stress

A Good Nights Sleep~Add the following to a cotton pad and place it under a pillow. The sedative action of these oils will combat insomnia:

• 2 drops Chamomile
• 2 drops Clary Sage

Indigestion~Add these oils to a bath for a soothing and relaxing soak:

• 2 drops Chamomile
• 2 drops Clary Sage
• 4 drops Lavender

Soothe The Mind & Spirit

Deep Meditation~Add these oils to a burner for relaxing meditation:

• 2-3 drops Clary Sage
• 2-3 drops Ylang Ylang

Calming Massage~Calm nerves with a massage blend of:

• 3 drops Clary Sage
• 3 drops Rose
• 3 drops Frankincense's
• 2 tbsp carrier oil

As you can see, Clary Sage is a must-have in your aromatherapy cabinet! Thanks so much to my current followers for being so loyal and a welcome to any of you that are new to my page...couldn't do it without you! Have yourselves a wonderfully peaceful day!