Essential Oils 201: Medical and Skin Care Properties

Here are some helpful charts I've taken from various aromatherapy books that I thought the most helpful by category: Medical, Skin Care, Hair Care, Emotions. They are taken from three sources:
1. DoTerra Book
2. Advanced Aromatherapy, Kurt Schnaubelt
3. The complete Book of Essential Oils and Aromatherapy, Valerie Worwood
sorry they're not the best quality, but I'll try to fix them and update them).


MEDICAL PROPERTIES



The more marks per book, the better the essential oil is for that category.

SKIN CARE PROPERTIES



HAIR CARE PROPERTIES

EMOTION PROPERTIES

If you have one of the charted emotional concerns, this chart is supposed to reflect whih oils may help counteract those negative emotions. The keyword to the right explains the word that describes the resulting positive emotion connected with each oil.

Homemade Lotion Bar

So...I have tried a few homemade lotions and it is hard to get exact measurements when you buy in bulk. So I sometimes don't get the exact consistency for a lotion that I put in a jar. And they frequently look slimy. Not appealing, I know. But...I finally found a homemade version that makes sense! A bar!  I know...lotion as a bar?

Granted...this isn't a good facial lotion because it may clog pores, but I use it on my kids and on my hands and such. I just rub it on my skin and it kind of just glides on perfectly. But even better than that is what I have been looking for in most of my homemade versions of things. The recipe is simple and only needs a few common ingredients--from wellnessmama.com.

If you are going to be making your own bathroom products, these are all items you should have on hand in bulk. Just add them all in equal parts. Here is an example for six thin bars.
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1/3 c coconut oil
1/3 c beeswax
1/3 c Shea or cocoa butter (I use Shea, but it is more stinky)
Essential oils (optional: i do about 15 drops. Lavender is the best for children and basic needs and skin healing. Tea trea for cleansing.)

Place the first three oils in a glass jar and put into a pan with water.
Then melt all in the jar.
Once melted, add the essential oils if you chose. And pour...divided into six muffin tin molds.
Let cool, then pop out and enjoy!

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You can use a double boiler, but it is messy once done...with all the melted waxy, oily things, so i prefer the glass jar. I did a lavender one for my kids. A lavender, tea tree, peppermint, rosemary one for me. And a spearmint, tea tree, lemon eucalyptus, cedar wood for my hubby (he doesn't generally need lotion, but it is to rub on his chest for sinus and congestion stuff). That is the fun part...mix and mingle the essential oils to your liking for whatever purpose you and your family need. They each can have their own bar. If I were really cool I would add some natural food coloring tints to them each so they looked different....like turmeric or beet juice. But...that is way too much work; and the lotion bars, on the other hand, weren't. So enjoy!

Essential Oils 201: Art of Blending Oils

How to Blend Essential Oils

Blending essential oils is an art and usually requires a little bit of training and experimentation. If you choose to create your own blends, it is important to understand that the order in which the essential oils are blended is key to maintaining the desired therapeutic properties in a synergistic blend. An alteration in the sequence of adding selected essential oils to a blend may change the chemical properties, the fragrance, and thus the desired results. In general, essential oils that are from the same botanical family, usually blend well together. In addition, essential oils that share common constituents also mix well.

There are four blending classifications. The following information explains the characteristics of each classification, the order in which they should be added to the blend (Personifiers first, Enhancers second, Equalizers third, and Modifiers fourth), and the amount of each type of oil as a percentage of the blend.

• The Personifier (1-5% of the blend) essential oils have very sharp, strong and long-lasting fragrances. They also have dominant properties with strong therapeutic action. Essential oils in this classification may include: angelica, birch, cardamom, cinnamon bark, cistus, Clary sage, clove, coriander, German chamomile, ginger, helichrysum, mandarin, neroli, nutmeg, orange, patchouly, peppermint, petitgrain, rose, spearmint, tangerine, terragon, wintergreen and ylang ylang.

• The Enhancer (50-80% of the blend) essential oil should be the predominant essential oil as it serves to enhance the properties of the other essential oils in the blend. Its fragrance is not as sharp as the personifiers and is usually of a shorter duration.Essential oils in this classification may include: basil, bergamot, birch, cajeput, cedarwood, cumin, dill, eucalyptus, frankincense, galbanum, geranium, grapefruit, hyssop, jasmine, lavender, lemon, lemongrass, lime, marjoram, melaleuca (Tea Tree), melissa, myrtle, orange, oregano, palmarosa, patchouly, petitgrain, ravensara, roman chamomile, rose, rosemary, sage, spruce, thyme, wintergreen.

• The Equalizer (10-15% of the blend) essential oils create balance and synergy among the essential oils contained in the blend. Their fragrance is also not as sharp as the personifier and is of a shorter duration.Essential oils in this classification may include: basil, beramot, cedarwood, cypress, fennel, fir, frankincense, geranium, ginger, hyssop, jasmine, juniper, lavender, lemongrass, lime, marjoram, melaleuca (Tea Tree), melissa, myrrh, myrtle, neroli, oregano, pine, roman chamomile, rose, rosewood, sandalwood, spruce, tarragon, thyme.

• The Modifier (5-8% of the blend) essential oils have a mild and short fragrance. These essential oils add harmony to the blend.Essential oils in this classification may include: angelica, bergamot, cardamom, coriander, eucalyptus, fennel, grapefruit, hyssop, jasmine, avender, lemon, mandarin, melissa, myrrh, neroli, petitgrain, rose, rosewood, sandalwood, tangerine, ylang ylang.

Depending on the topical application of your blend, you will want to add some carrier/base oil. When creating a therapeutic essential oil blend, you may want to use about 28 drops of essential oil to 1/2 oz. of carrier/base oil. When creating a body massage blend, you will want to use a total of about 50 drops of essential oils to 4 oz. of carrier/base oil. Remember to store your fragrant creation in dark-colored glass bottles.

Here are some helpful charts on blending properties, smells and dilutions:

How to dilute for various methods of application...

Perfume: 15-30% essential oil, 90-95% alcohol, 5-10% water

*sources: three books....

Advanced Aromatherapy by Kurt Schnaubelt

Modern Essentials, DoTerra

complete Guide to Essential Oils and Aromatherapy by Valerie Worwood

Essential Oils 202: Some Basic Blends

As I've looked around at essential oils and popular blends, I've noted which oils are in what types of blends, so you can recreate your own.

Breathe Easy:  Eucalyptus, lemon, peppermint, rosemary

Theives: (based on 5 theives during black plague surviving with this cleansing blend: highly anti-infectious, antiviral, antibacterial, and antiseptic) cinnamon, clove, eucalyptus, lemon, rosemary

Deep Blue: (Sore muscles) wintergreen, peppermint, etc.

Headaches: lavendar, peppermint, wintergreen, basil, rosemary

Purify: (bugbigs or air) lemon, lime, teatree

Outdoor bugs: lemongrass, lemon eucalyptus, etc.

Which Oils for Baby: (over two years old) lavendar, lemon, bergamot, chamomiles, tangerine/mandarin

Which oils for Pregnancy: lavendar, flowery ones, citruses, frankinsence, spearmint

Essential Oils 301: Chemical Properties

In general, pure essential oils can be subdivided into two distinct groups of chemical constituents; the hydrocarbons which are made up almost exclusively of terpenes (monoterpenes, sesquiterpenes, and diterpenes), and the oxygenated compounds which ar mainly esters, aldehydes, ketones, alcohols, phenols, and oxides.   (find more info like this in Advanced Armoatherapy Book by Kurt Schnaubelt)

These charts show the properties for the chemical components of essential oils and the next chart shows which oils belong in which area. Super cool to visualize where the oils fit.

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Terpenes - inhibit the accumulation of toxins and help discharge existing toxins from the liver and kidneys.

• Sesquiterpenes are antiseptic and anti-inflammatory. They work as a liver and gland stimulant and contain caryophyllene and valencene. Research from the universities of Berlin and Vienna show increased oxygenation around the pineal and pituitary glands. Further research has shown that sesquiterpenes have the ability to surpass the blood-brain barrier and enter the brain tissue. other sesquiterpenes, like chamazulene and farnesol, are very high in anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial activity. Chamazulene may be found in chamomile, tansy, and yarrow.
• Farnesene is anti-viral in action.
• Limonene has strong anti-viral properties and has been found in 90% of the citrus oils.
• Pinene has strong antiseptic properties and may be found in high proportions in the conifer oils such as pine, fir, spruce, and juniper.
• Other terpenes include camphene, cadinene, cedrene, dipentene, phellandrene, terpinene, sabinene, and myrcene.

Esters - are the compounds resulting from the reaction of an alcohol with an acid (known as esterification). Esters are very common and are found in a large number of essential oils. They are anti-fungal, calming and relaxing.

• Linalyl acetate may be found in bergamot, Clary sage, and lavender
• Geraniol acetate may be found in sweet marjoram.
• Other esters include bornyl acetate, eugenol acetate, and lavendulyl acetate.

Aldehydes - are highly reactive and characterized by the group C-H-O (Carbon, Hydrogen, Oxygen). In general, they are anti-infectious with a sedative effect on the central nervous system. They can be quite irritating when applied topically (citral being one example), but may have a profound calming effect when inhaled.

• Citral is very common with a distinctive antiseptic action. It also has an anti-viral application as with melissa oil when applied topically on herpes simplex.
• Citronellal is also very common and has the same lemony scent as citral. Along with citral and neral, citronellas may be found in the oils of melissa, lemongrass, lemon, mandarin, lemon-scented eucalyptus, and citronella.
• Elements of aldehydes have also been found in lavender and myrrh. Other aldehydes include benzaldehyde, cinnamic aldehyde, cuminic aldehyde, and perillaldehyde.

Ketones - are sometimes mucolytic and neuro-toxic when isolated from other constituents. However, all recorded toxic effects come from laboratory testing on guinea pigs and rats. No documented cases exist where oils with a high concentration of ketones (such as mugwort, tansy, sage, and wormwood) have ever caused a toxic effect on a human being. Also, large amounts of these oils would have to be consumed for them to result in a toxic neurological effect. Ketones stimulate cell regeneration, promote the formation of tissue, and liquefy mucous. They are helpful with such conditions as dry asthma, colds, flu and dry cough and are largely found in oils used for the upper respiratory system, such as hyssop, Clary sage, and sage.

• Thujone is one of the most toxic members of the ketone family. It can be an irritant and upsetting to the central nervous system and mey be neuro-toxic when taken internally as in the banned drink Absinthe. Although it may be inhaled to relieve respiratory distress and my stimulate the immune system, it should only be administered by an educated and professional aromatherapist.
• Jasmone (found in jasmine) and fenchone (found in fennel) are both non-toxic.
• Other ketones include camphor, carvone, menthone, methyl nonyl ketone, and pinacamphone.

Alcohols - are commonly recognized for their antiseptic and anti-viral activities. They create an uplifting quality and are regarded as non-toxic.

1. Terpene Alcohols stimulate the immune system, work as a diuretic and a general tonic, and are anti-bacterial as well.

• Linalol can help relieve discomfort. It may be found in rosewood and lavender.
• Citronellol may be found in rose, lemon, eucalyptus, geranium, and others.
• Geraniol may be found in geranium as well as palmarosa.
• Farnesol may be found in chamommile. It is also good for the mucous.
• Other terpene alcohols include borneol, menthol, nerol, terpineol, (which Dr. Gattefosse considered to be a decongestant), vetiverol, benzyl alcohol, and cedrol.

2. Sesquiterpene Alcohols are anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, anti-mycotic, and ulcer-protective (preventative).

• Bisabolol is one of the the strongest sesquiterpene alcohols. It may be found in chamomile oils where it also functions well as a fixative.

Phenols - are responsible for the fragrance of an oil. They are antiseptic, anti-bacterial, and strongly stimulating but can also be quite caustic to the skin. They contain high levels of oxygenating molecules and have antioxidant properties.

• Eugenol may be found in clove and cinnamon oil.
• Thymol is found in thyme and may not be as caustic as other phenols.
• Carvacrol may be found in oregano and savory. Researchers believe it may possibly contain some anti-cancerous properties.
• Others in the phenol family include methyl eugenol, methyl chavicol anethole, safrole, myristicin, and apiol.

Oxides - According to The American Heritage™ Dictionary of the English Language, an oxide is "a binary compound of an element or a radical with oxygen".

• Cineol (or eucalyptol) is by far the most important member of the family and virtually exists in a class of its own. It is anesthetic, antiseptic, and works as an expectorant. Cineol is well known as the principal constituent of eucalyptus oil. It may also be found in rosemary, cinnamon, melissa, basil, and ravensara.
• Other oxides include linalol oxide, ascaridol, bisabolol oxide, and bisabolone oxide.

All pure essential oils have some anti-bacterial properties. They increase the production of white blood cells, which help fight infectious illnesses. It is through these properties that aromatic herbs have been esteemed so highly throughout the ages and so widely used during the onsets of malaria, typhoid, and of course, the epidemic plagues during the 16th century.

Research has found that people who consistently use pure essential oils have a higher level of resistance to illnesses, colds, flues, and diseases than the average person. Further indications show that such individuals, after contracting a cold, flu, or other illness, will recover 60-70 percent faster than those who do not use essential oils.

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Essential Oils 101: Starting Small

If you ever wonder what to give your family when you don't want to use regular over the counter medications and things, you may want to think about essential oils. Granted, there may be times when oils won't cut it, but at least you can turn to them first before other alternatives, since they're straight from the plant.

Basically your Essential Oil build your own kit should include the following things (and then I'll explain why):

A few essential oils (peppermint, lavender and tea tree are musts--stored in dark containers away from light)
A bottle of carrier oil (extra-virgin olive, almond, jojoba, etc. that is pure and least processed)
Cotton balls or strips of fabric (to put drops on directly)
Small bowl (to mix/dilute oils if needed)

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There are many oils and you'll want to decide which work for you, but here are some oils I've found to be the most versatile:

Peppermint
Properties: Analgesic, antibacterial, anticarcinogenic, anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, antispasmodic, antiviral and invigoration
Uses: Digestive issues, freshen breath, hot flashes or fevers, headaches, indigestion, nausea, breathing problems, fatigue, inflammation, hives, toothaches, flavor water, etc.
Scent: Minty, sharp, intense
Info/Warning: Not best to use on pregnant women or babies. May cause skin sensitization. Caution if have high blood pressure.

Eucalyptus
Properties: Analgesic, antibacterial, anticatarrhal, anti-infectious, anti-inflammatory, antiviral, insectcidal and expectorant
Uses: acne, bronchitis, ear inflammation, flu, hay fever, high blood pressure, iris inflammation, nasal mucous membrane inflammation, sinusitis, etc.
Scent:  Slightly camphorous, sweet, fruity
Info/Warning: Caution with babies and pregnant women. Best to dilute before applying to skin.

Lavender
Properties: Analgesic, anticoagulant, anticonvulsant, antidepressant, antifungal, antihistamine, anti-infectious, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antimutagenic, antiseptic, antispasmodic, antitoxic, antitumor, cardiotonic, regenerative and sedative. Nutures creativity and calmness.
Uses: Balances the body and generally work wherever is needed (if in doubt, use lavender). Acne, allergies, burns, cramps, dandruff, hair loss, insomnia, lowering blood pressure, lymphatic system drainage, PMS, nausea, scarring, thrush, water retension, bruises, gallstones, headaches, heart irregularities, repel insects, reduce mucus, stress, bee stings, throat infections, fever, cough, sunburns, etc.
Scent: Floral, sweet, herbaceous, balsamic, woody undertones
Info/Warning: Don't use on babies. Doesn't need to be diluted (one of the more gentle oils--like chamomile). Blends with most oils very well.

Lemon
Properties: Anti-anemic, antimicrobial, anti-rheumatic, antiseptic, antispasmodic, antitoxic, astringent, bactericide, carminative, depurative, diaphoretic, diuretic, hemostatic, hypotensive, insecticide, tonic
Uses:  Acne, anemia, cuts, greasy skin, insect bites, mouth ulcers, warts, throat infections, arthritis, high blood pressure, nosebleeds, poor circulation, varicose veins, asthma, bronchitis, colds and flu, fever, infections.
Scent: Light and refreshing. Fruity and penetrating, yet soothing.
Info/Warning: Blends well with other citrus oils, lavender, eucalyptus and chamomile. Phototoxic, so don’t use on skin before going outside in the sun. May cause irritation—use in moderation.

Tea Tree (Melaleuca)
Properties: Analgesic, antibacterial, antifungal, anti-infectious, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antiparasitic, strong antiseptic, antiviral, decongestant, immune stimulant, insecticidal, nerotonic, stimulant, and tissue regenerative
Uses: Promotes cleasing and purity: heal cuts, wounds and skin infections, athlete's foot, bronchitis, colds, coughs, diarrhea, flu, gum disease, rash, sore throat, sunburn, tonsillitis, thrush, acne, cold sores, digestion, fungal infections, infectious diseases, inflammation, mites, shock, ticks, warts, etc.
Scent: Medicinal, fresh, woody, earthy, herbaceous
Info/Warning: Could be sensitive to skin with repeated use. Blends well with citrus, cypress, eucalyptus, lavender, rosemary and thyme oils.
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How to Use Essential Oils
First off, make sure you buy 100% pure essential oils (if it's the cheapest type out there, it's probably diluted already in the bottle with things you don't want to put in your body so buy smart).
Become acquainted with oil guidelines before you just randomly use them, so you dilute them properly and don't use certain oils on babies or when you're pregnant. Basically one drop of peppermint oil is the equivalent of drinking 30 cups of peppermint tea, which could be overload to one's body if not used correctly (esp. if pregnant). Always make sure the oil is ok for the age/pregnancy status.

Also, use your nose! When using oils, it's important to pay attention to our noses. Sometimes our body may not like a smell (even if it did before). This just means that your body doesn't want/need it at this time. Maybe your body already has enough of the properties contained in this oil or maybe that oil has more of a relaxing vs. stimulating effect (depending if you need energy or calm). Ex: Peppermint is awakening/energizing, versus lavender which is more calming.

You can also look at charts which tell you the properties of oils as to how relaxing vs. stimulating they are so you don't take the energizing oils at night when you need to sleep. And which oils to blend together for synergizing effectiveness and what % of a blend the different oils should be. See Chart below for an idea (not comprehensive though).

There are three basic ways to use the oils:
1. Inhalation
Use something to diffuse the oil into the air. You can buy a fancy one that uses electricity or a little one that uses a candle (in which you add the esential oil to a carrier oil: almond, jojoba, extra-virgin olive, etc.) Or you can just smell the oil from the bottle or put a drop on some fabric/cotton ball to put in your pillowcase, drawers, near a vent, etc. to give the smell off wherever you'd like it. Or you can put it into hot water and do a steam treatment with a towel over your head.

2. Topical Application
Direct: Put it right on the area of problem (if an external problem)

Indirect: Or put it somewhere else on the body through various means: massage, bath, compress, etc.
Dilute the essential oil in a carrier oil (to about 5% for adults or .5% for babies and pregnant women) and rub wherever needed. Places include feet for a reflexology massage--because the feet are connected to the whole body and within 20 minutes the oil applied there will get to your whole body. (ears and hands are also reflexology/pressure point good areas). Or massage into back, or neck. Be careful with areas near the eyes.

3. Ingestion
Generally not the best method and most oils say not to ingest. If so, they are normally in water (such as a drop of lemon or orange in your water to aid digestion) or put into capsules to swallow. Here are some examples of general dilution guidelines.

Adult Dilution: 3-6 drops per Tablespoon carrier oil
Child Dilution: 1/2 the adult dilution
Pregnant or Under 2 years: 1/4 the adult dilution

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Body Systems and Medical Properties Charts for Reference
taken from Modern Essentials: A Contemporary Guide to Therapeutic Use of Essential Oils

*Some oils listed are blends of this particular brand of oils (DoTerra--a multi-level marketing company), but the list has most of the basic oils that you can find across brands, without needing this particular brand.

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Natural Carrier Oils (use to dilute essential oils)

Sweet almond oil: Pale yellow oil from the nut kernel. Rich in protein and good for all skin types. Helps relieve dry, itchy skin, and can help reduce inflammation.

Grapeseed oil: Colorless and odorless, made from pressed seeds. Contains vitamins and minerals, and can be used by all skin types.

Avocado oil: Dark green oil from the avocado fruit. Contains vitamins, protein and essential fatty acids. Can be used by all skin types, especially dry skin, and by those who suffer from eczema.

Olive oil: Pale yellow to dark green. Contains protein, minerals and vitamins, can be used in hair care and is soothing to sore, achy muscles and joints.

Sesame oil: Dark yellow and rich in vitamins, minerals and amino acids. Can be used to treat arthritis, psoriasis and eczema. Good for all skin types.

Sunflower oil: Pale yellow oil that contains vitamins and minerals. Can be used by all skin types.

Jojoba oil: Popular because it is similar to our own skin oils. Contains protein and a waxy substance that is similar to collagen. Useful in reducing inflammation and treating acne. Can be used by all skin types.

Castor oil: Pale, unscented oil made from the seeds of the castor plant. One of the few oils soluble in alcohol. Can be used by all skin types and also can be used on hair, nails and lips.

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Extra Tips
This website has a lot of great info for finding which oils to use by what ailment:
http://everythingessential.me/HealthConcerns/_HealthConcernIndex.html

• Aromatherapist Jeanne Rose offers these tips for choosing pure essential oils:
1. Place a drop of essential oil on a piece of paper. If a greasy spot remains after an hour or two, the product has probably been diluted with other oils.

2. Add a drop of essential oil to water. If the oil forms a cloudy slick on the surface of the water, it’s probably a synthetic oil.

• To best preserve the properties of essential oils, store them in a cool, dark place in a dark glass bottle.

• The shelf life of most essential oils is approximately two years (one year for citrus oils). Some oils, such as sandalwood, frankincense, and patchouli, improve with age.

• Avoid oils labeled as “perfume oil,” “fragrance oil,” or “nature identical oil.” These labels indicate that the oil is not a pure essential oil.

• Buy oils that have child-proof lids if you have children around the house (the ones you push down to twist).

Baby Diaper Rash & Essential Oils for Baby

I've often wondered at the creams and ointments you need to help baby diaper rash problems. "Airing out" by itself doesn't bring baby or mom much comfort when I've not wanted to use these creams, so I've looked for other other alternatives.

First of all, I use a homemade diaper spray with some old flannel I cut up and this diaper spray can contain the same things you'd need to help diaper rash....that are natural and safe for baby. I wrote a post on it; just click on here.

But, here are some other tips about baby diaper rash problems....

First thing to do is bathe your baby in either plain warm water, or add some oatmeal to it. Once your baby is out of the bath, use a hair-dryer on its lowest heat setting and gently dry baby’s bottom. If you don’t have a hair-dryer, gently pat the bottom with a soft towel.

Then, let your baby have some diaper-free air time. Getting some air to the area is one of the most natural healing aids you can do. If your baby is not mobile, use a waterproof mat on the floor and place her there with some toys, or lay her on your chest with a towel. If mobile, you might have a harder time keeping your little one in one place, but still try to give them some air time.

If you are just changing a dirty diaper, avoid using commercial baby-wipes as they contain harsh amounts of alcohol, which can irritate baby’s skin even more. Make sure you dry the area thoroughly after cleaning, and then try to give some air time again.

Tried & Tested Natural Remedies for Diaper Rash:
Olive Oil & Water

Natural and healthy, olive oil has been used for centuries for all different kinds of ailments. Try whisking a tablespoon of olive oil with 5 drops of water until it forms a creamy smooth texture, then apply to baby’s clean, dry bottom.

Essential Oils
Essential Oils are wonderful products that can be used to naturally treat a number of problems. Tea tree is one of the best out there. This multi-use oil is effective against yeast, is antibacterial & anti-inflammatory and healing to wounds (vulnerary). Some others you could also try:

• Calendula Antiseptic & Soothing
• Comfrey Ultra Skin Healing
• Echinacea Antibacterial
• Chamomile Soothing & Gentle
• Lavender Anti-Inflammatory & Gentle
• Sandalwood Soothing & Gentle
• Myrrh Skin Rejuvenating

When using Essential Oils in their concentrated form, you’ll need to add them to a base oil first (Olive, Jojoba or Sweet Almond work well). The oils in their natural concentrated form will be too strong for baby’s delicate skin. (Dilute more than you would for an adult: maybe 2 drops per Tablespoon of oil and shake that with a cup of water if making a spray).

You can also find plenty of natural ingredient ointments on the market that may work well for your baby, including a lot with the above Essential Oils.

*Refer to my post on using essential oils. The best to have around your house include lavendar, tea tree, peppermint, lemon and eucalyptus (but don't use them on babies unless you know they're safe and in the recommended dilutions). My favoritesfor baby are tea tree and lavendar.

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Other uses for baby include:
- 1 drop of lavendar on baby sheet or piece of cloth to put by baby's head to comfort and help sleep.
- 1 drop lavendar, 2 drops tea tree in 1 T bath gel and then put in tub of warm water for soothing/cleasing baby bath
- 3 drops tea tree/lemon oil in water to spray on areas to disinfect (even some stains--like baby pee on a matress)
- spray a washcloth with tea tree oil or lavender and place at the bottom of the pail to control odors

Natural Bug Repellents- Make Your Own

Mosquito Attractants

Use this list of items and activities that attract mosquitoes as a list of things to avoid or that can be used as bait to lure mosquitoes away from you.

• Dark Clothing  Many mosquitoes use vision to locate hosts from a distance. Dark clothes and foliage are initial attractants.
  
  
• Carbon Dioxide You give off more carbon dioxide when you are hot or have been exercising. A burning candle or other fire is another source of carbon dioxide.
  
  
• Lactic Acid You release more lactic acid when you have been exercising or after eating certain foods (e.g., salty foods, high-potassium foods).
  
  
• Floral or Fruity Fragrances In addition to perfumes, hair products, and scented sunscreens, watch for the subtle floral fragrance from fabric softeners and dryer sheets.
  
  
• Skin Temperature The exact temperature depends on the type of mosquito. Many mosquitoes are attracted to the slightly cooler temperatures of the extremities.
  
  
• Moisture Mosquitoes are attracted by perspiration because of the chemicals it contains and also because it increases the humidity around your body. Even small amounts of water (e.g., moist plants or mud puddles) will draw mosquitoes. Standing water also allows mosquitoes to reproduce.

Things that Lower Repellent Effectiveness

• Many Sunscreens
• Dilution from Rain, Perspiration, or Swimming
• Absorption into the Skin
• Evaporation from Wind or High Temperatures

Keep in mind that 'natural' does not automatically imply 'safe'. Many people are sensitive to plant oils. Some natural insect repellents are actually toxic. Therefore, although natural repellents provide an alternative to synthetic chemicals, please remember to follow the manufacturer's instructions when using these products.

Natural Repellents
It's very easy to make your own natural mosquito repellent. These natural products will effectively repel mosquitoes, but they require more frequent reapplication (at least every 2 hours) and higher concentrations than DEET. Because of the differences between types of mosquitoes, products that contain multiple repellents tend to be more effective than those containing a single ingredient. As you can see, natural repellents tend to be volatile plant oils.

• Citronella Oil
• Lemon Eucalyptus Oil
• Cinnamon Oil
• Castor Oil
• Rosemary Oil
• Lemongrass Oil
• Cedar Oil
• Peppermint Oil
• Clove Oil
• Geranium Oil
• Possibly Oils from Verbena, Pennyroyal, Lavender, Pine, Cajeput, Basil, Thyme, Allspice, Soybean, and Garlic

Another plant-derived substance, pyrethrum, is an insecticide. Pyrethrum comes from the flowers of the daisy Chrysanthemum cinerariifolium.

*from about.com


Other Bug Repellent Essential Oils
Caution: Pregnant women should consult with their doctors before using.

List By Bugs
Ticks: Rose Geranium (first choice), Other: Palmerosa, bay, eucalyptus, European pennyroyal, lavender, tickweed (American pennyroyal)
Blackflies: Sassafras, lavender, eucalyptus, pennyroyal, cedar, lemon balm (citronella), peppermint
Head Lice: Tea tree, rosemary, lavender, eucalyptus, rose geranium
Fleas: Orange oil

Read more: http://www.care2.com/greenliving/custom-made-insect-repellent.html#ixzz1PCPrBldw


List By Oils
* Lemongrass - Mosquitoes, chiggers, noseeums, gnats, fleas, and ticks
* Tea Tree Oil - Mosquitoes, chiggers, noseeums, gnats, fleas, horseflies, ticks
* Eucalyptus - Mosquitoes, chiggers, noseeums, gnats, ticks
* Lavender - Ticks, Chiggers, ants
* Spearmint and Peppermint - Ants, roaches, chiggers, fleas, gnats, and spiders
* Catnip - Highly touted as being MORE effective than DEET and a good general natural insect repellent.

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How to Make Repellent for the Body
Use a clean spray bottle (not used with chemicals) for this repellant solution. If you are making large amounts of mosquito repellent, a good rule of thumb is to mix the repellent so it's 5-10% essential oil, so mix 1 part essential oil with 10-20 parts carrier oil. For a smaller batch use: (should last about 6 months)

+10-25 drops (total) of essential oils
+ 2 tablespoons of a carrier oil (olive oil, sunflower oil, almond, avocado oil, etc.)

EXAMPLE
* 2 oz. of a carrier oil
* 1/4 teas. Catnip/mint or citronella oil
* 1/8 teas. Eucalyptus oil
* 1/8 teas. Lavender oil

This will make a good broad spectrum natural insect repellent. You can, however, use any of the essential oils listed in step one for your own combination. Spray the oil directly onto your skin, or your hands, and rub in well. It is not recommended that this be applied around the mouth or eye


How to Make Repellent for the Home
You can take strips of cloth or paper or a sponge and soak with the following solution. (You can put a tiny piece of sponge that has been soaked in this solution in an old altoid tin and then open and place on the picnic table for the evening. Will need to replenish it for next use though.)

* 5 drops each of Lavender oil and Citronella oil, or
* 5 drops each of Peppermint and Eucalyptus oil

Hang these strips near windows and doors where the mosquitoes and other insects enter your home. It is not necessary to dilute the oils, if you are not putting them on your skin.
For ants, rub spearmint and cinnamon oil on the counters, and put cedar chips that have been soak in those oils at entry points on the floor in your home.

 
Read more: How to Make a Natural Insect Repellant with Essential Oils | eHow.com http://www.ehow.com/how_5064418_make-insect-repellant-essential-oils.html#ixzz1PCV5MLAg

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As a side note, you can try this recipe if you have these herbs in your garden. Supposedly its what thieves in the forest would wear to protect themselves from the black plague....

Vinegar of the Four Thieves Insect Repellent Ingredients:

+ 1 32 ounce bottle of Apple Cider Vinegar
+ 2 TBSP each of dried Sage, Rosemary, Lavender, Thyme and Mint (or play around with other herbs mentioned above)
+ At least quart size glass jar with airtight lid
Put the vinegar and dried herbs into large glass jar.
Seal tightly and store on counter or place you will see it daily. Shake well each day for 2-3 weeks.
After 2-3 weeks, strain the herbs out and store in spray bottles or tincture bottles, preferably in fridge.
To use on skin, dilute to half with water in a spray bottle and use as needed.
Use whenever you need serious bug control!

[Note: This mixture is very strong and has antiviral and antibacterial properties. It can also be used as a tincture for any illness. For adults, dose is 1 TBSP in water several times a day,for kids over 2, dose is 1 tsp in water several times a day.]

*from www.wellnessmama.com

Aromatherapy: 5 Ways to Freshen Up Your Home

I'm trying to get more into aromatherapy and using essential oils from flowers and plants in my everyday life. I like that each essential oil has different properties (some help relax or some concentrate your focus or some stimulate your digestion, etc.).

I wrote a post on some simple oils to start with (like lavender, tee tree, peppermint, etc), but it's important that you like the smell of the oils you buy. Your body knows what it likes and doesn't like, so trust that (it's the same with seasonings--smell the food and the seasonings and you can get a better feel for which seasonings taste well with that food and agree with your body).

Different oils may smell good to you based on your mood. For example, if you want relaxation, lavender is a great one. If you’re looking to get rid of germs, try the antiseptic qualities of tea tree. OR if you want mental clarity, try peppermint.

Here are some uses for these oils:
1. Bath/Shower Steam.
Add 3-6 drops of your favorite essential oil to your hot water (or on a rag or in a bowl -- if you're in the shower or want to put a towel over the bowl for a simple facial steam--for sinuses). Another trick is to add the drops to a pan of boiling water. This is great if you want to relax --lavender, or great if you have sinus/congestion issues --maybe a mix of eucalyptus and tee tree.

2. Room Deodorizer.
Add a few drops of essential oils to water in a spray bottle and keep it handy in rooms that often need freshening, like the bathroom or kitchen. You can also spray freshen linens with lavender spray to help you relax or spray them with ylang ylang to make the mood more sensual. OR add some drops to freshen up old potpourri (or make your own potpourri by drying your own flowers and throwing them in a bowl-- you can change them up during the different seasons with flowers from your yard).

3. A Closet Freshener.
Add a few drops of essential oils to some pieces of cotton or wool cloth and place in drawers or on closet shelves, a little goes a long way. A cloth hankie is perfect for this. Lavender, cedar or sandalwood are nice choices.

4. Heat Diffuser.
You can make use of your heating vent by placing a few drops of essential oils on a piece of cloth/ribbons or cotton ball and place by your heating vent or just in front of it. When your furnace kicks on the blower will help spread the scent throughout your home. You can get the same results putting a saucer of water and oils on top of your radiator. This is an easy way to use heat for disbursement without investing in aromatherapy gadgets or special diffusers. Or place a drop of your favorite oil on your light bulbs but make sure to do this when the bulbs are cold. When the bulb heats up after you turn it on, it will heat the oil and fill the room with scent. For increased energy and invigoration use grapefruit, peppermint, lemon, or black pepper.

5. Cleaning Products
You can deodorize things you clean: Refrigerator Deodorizer -- drops of orange, mint or lemon oil in a bucket of warm water. With a clean sponge, use the water to clean out your refrigerator. Or a counter Cleaner -- add lemon, thyme, or eucalyptus oil to equal parts distilled white vinegar and water. Use it to clean your kitchen and bathroom surfaces as you normally would. Or for furniture polish --add four to six drops of lemon essential oil to half a cup of olive oil. With a clean dry rag, use the oil to polish wood furniture.
 
Essential oils are a great alternative to buying imitation air fresheners and you can have fun playing around with scents you already have. If you don't have any essential oils, why not go out and buy two simple scents you enjoy, or as listed in my other post and give it a try. You'll feel good knowing that you're providing a cleaner, healthier environment for yourself and family.

*Many ideas gleaned from www.naturemoms.com