Copaiba - Calming Comfort

I was surprised but thrilled when I learned that Young Living was adding Copaiba to its brand new Premium Starter Kits. Surprised because I knew it was already included in the bonus oil blend: Stress Away. And thrilled because Stress Away is honestly my favorite blend of all time, so I was sure I would love Copaiba! I was right - it's heavenly and oh so helpful. It has a soft, sweet scent that immediately calms and soothes. It's a bit of a miracle oil, much like Frankincense, that supports all areas of the body.

Young Living says: "Copaiba essential oil may promote wellness, and can be an important part of a daily health regimen*. This oil includes the naturally occurring constituents beta-caryophyllene and alpha-humulene, and can be mixed with honey and warm water for a warming, essential oil-infused tea." Beta Caryophyllene is a powerful sesquiterpene that interacts with the brain to potentially support emotional balance.

Young Living uses Brazilian Copaiba since it is generally regarded as safe for human consumption and can be used as a dietary supplement. The oil is "steam distilled (vacuum distilled) from gum resin exudate from tapped trees" (Essential Oils Pocket Reference, 58). It is a crucial constituent in Young Living's "ART Beauty Masque, Breathe Again Roll-on, Copaiba Vanilla Moisturizing Shampoo & Conditioner, Deep Relief Roll-on, Progressence Phyto Plus, and Stress Away" (59). It blends well with any other essential oil because it is believed to amplify the effects of any other oil. No wonder it was added to the new Premium Starter Kits!

Specific Blends & Uses:

• Combine with any other essential oil or blend to amplify its desired effect.
• Diffuse, take internally, or create a roll-on blend with Lavender, Lemon, Geranium, and Frankincense to uplift, soothe occasional discomfort, support overall wellness, create a romantic atmosphere, meditate, and help balance emotions. This combo would also make a lovely perfume.
• Combine with Geranium, Lavender, Melaleuca, and Frankincense for skin care.
• Combine with Purification or Lavender and Frankincense to soothe occasional itching and discomfort.
• Diffuse with Lavender and Lime to support restful sleep.
• Diffuse with Peppermint or RC or Thieves to support the respiratory system and energize.
• Take as a dietary supplement with DiGize to support the digestive system and comfort.
• Combine in a roll-on blend with PanAway to invigorate and soothe before and after physical activity.

Email me at rach.dorian@gmail.com to learn more about how essential oils can benefit you and your family! I love to answer questions and mentor others in their wellness journeys.

*Disclaimer: This post is NOT intended as medical advice of any kind because I am not a doctor. These statements have not been tested or evaluated by the FDA and so they are not intended to cure, treat, or prevent disease. They only help your body to do what it is meant to do, like nutritional supplements. Caution should be exercised with first time oil use - skin patch tests prior to use and dilution with carrier oil - especially in children. Children, especially under the age of 6, should never ingest essential oils without advice of a healthcare professional since they are concentrated and potent. If you are under the care of a physician, nursing, taking prescription medication, or pregnant please consult your doctor prior to use. Keep essential oils out of reach of children.

Lavender - Swiss Army Knife

Lavender is one of my absolute favorite essential oils included in the Premium Starter Kit. It has so many incredible uses that it's often called the "Swiss Army Knife" of essential oils. Not only is it calming, but it is soothes discomfort, nourishes the skin, and supports optimal health and wellness in almost every area of the body. Best of all, it is generally considered safe for children and safe for human consumption,* which is why it is a principal constituent in my DIY Skin Spray. Except for those with sensitive skin and children under the age of 2, this oil can be applied neat or undiluted and in higher concentrations.

Young Living says: "Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) has a sweet, floral aroma that is soothing and refreshing. Lavender’s aroma is great for relaxing and winding down before bedtime; add to bath or diffuse to create a calming and comforting environment. Lavender essential oil may compliment your favorite shampoos, lotions and skin care products. Because it is the most versatile of all essential oils, no home should be without it. "

Lavender's primary properties are soothing and relaxing. This makes it excellent for supporting the respiratory system, which is why it's included in the respiratory care R.C. blend. It is also indispensable in supporting emotional balance, mental health, and restful sleep, which is why it's a constituent of the infamous Stress Away blend. "Calming, relaxing, and balancing, both physically and emotionally. Lavender has been documented to improve concentration and mental acuity. University of Miami researchers found that inhalation of lavender oil increased beta waves in the brain, suggesting heightened relaxation. ... A 2001 Osaka Kyoiku University study found that lavender reduced mental stress and increased alertness" (Essential Oils Pocket Reference, 84). No wonder these two blends and Lavender on its own always manage to calm and soothe me.

Of course, the multitude of uses does not stop there. Besides calming and soothing, I use Lavender most often to support skin and hair health. I add it to shampoo, conditioner, soap, and my facial wash. It is the most used oil in my DIY products. It can also be found in the majority of Young Living's personal care products and emotional healing blends.

Specific Blends & Uses:

• Create a Facial Cleanse & Moisturizer spray by combining Lavender with Purification, Geranium, Melaleuca Alternifolia, and Frankincense. This blend is excellent for cleansing, calming, and supporting healthy restoration of any skin abnormality.
• Create a Hair Serum - Anti-Frizz Detangler Spray by combining Lavender with Geranium, Stress Away, and Cedarwood to support hair health, texture, and growth.
• Create an Outdoors Spray by combining Lavender with Carrot Seed, Frankincense, and Peppermint to soothe and cool the skin.
• Create a soothing and kid friendly Skin Spray by combining Lavender with Frankincense and Melaleuca Alternifolia (feel free to substitute Copaiba for Melaleuca if needed).
• Diffuse with Copaiba to support restful sleep and general wellness.
• Diffuse with Peppermint and Lemon to support mental alertness and the respiratory system. 
• Diffuse with Thieves or Purification to purify the air and create a calm, centered atmosphere
• Take as a dietary supplement with Thieves, Frankincense, and Copaiba to support the immune system.
• Take as a dietary supplement with Frankincense, Copaiba, Lemon, and/or DiGize to calm, uplift, and support the digestive system.
• Combine in a roll-on blend with PanAway and Copaiba to soothe discomfort, calm, and cool.
• Add to personal care products to support healthy skin and hair.

If you're curious about how essential oils can benefit you and your family email me at rach.dorian@gmail.com. 

*Disclaimer: This post is NOT intended as medical advice of any kind because I am not a doctor. These statements have not been tested or evaluated by the FDA and so they are NOT intended to cure, treat, or prevent disease. Caution should be exercised with first time oil use - skin patch tests prior to use and dilution with carrier oil - especially in children. Children, especially under the age of 6, should never ingest essential oils without advice of a healthcare professional since they are concentrated and potent. If you are under the care of a physician, nursing, taking prescription medication, or pregnant please consult your doctor prior to use. Keep essential oils out of reach of children.

R.C. - Respiratory Care

Do I really need to explain WHY I had to add this amazing essential oil blend to my collection? I'm not entirely sure what the R.C. stands for but I think it should be "Respiratory Care" since the essential oils in it were especially combined to support the respiratory system. This particular blend is very strong so it's NOT generally recommended for those who are pregnant or under the age of 2. But I feel perfectly comfortable diffusing it regularly around my little girl. Diffusing is my preferred method of stronger essential oil use since it's not going directly on or in the body, but being absorbed through the air more gradually. A diluted roll-on blend on the bottoms of the feet would also be a gentler, safer method of application. Personally, I breathe easier knowing I have this blend on hand and I diffuse it regularly.

Young Living says: "R.C.™ Essential Oil Blend is a unique combination of Cypress, Spruce, and three types of Eucalyptus (E. globulus, E. radiata, and E. citriodora) oils, and includes the naturally occurring constituent limonene. Rub R.C. on your feet or chest before exercise to uplift and inspire, or massage three drops on your feet before bedtime to encourage an atmosphere of comfort. R.C. can also be used in place of Aroma Siez™ in Young Living’s Raindrop Technique®."

The first essential oil ingredient in this powerhouse blend is Myrtle, which supports the respiratory system. Plus, it's generally regarded as safe for children. So, if you're looking for something more mild and suitable for children, Myrtle and the soon to follow Lavender, Marjoram, and Cypress ingredients in this blend would be great choices!

Next is Eucalyptus Globulus, because what respiratory support blend would be complete without some Eucalyptus, right? This blend actually has THREE different types of Eucalyptus to cover all the bases. It's also one of the main reasons this blend isn't recommended for young children because Eucalyptus is a "hot" oil and Eucalyptus Globulus is the strongest of them all.

Marjoram supports the respiratory and immune systems. It is a muscle relaxer and soother that I have found to be highly effective.

Then we have Pine, which both supports the respiratory system and soothes with its deliciously comforting aroma.

Eucalyptus Citriodora supports easy and clear breathing.

Then there is Lavender or what it is often called the Swiss Army Knife of essential oils because of its usefulness. It's generally regarded as safe for children and "is relaxing and grounding" (170-171).

Cypress is also generally regarded as safe for children. It supports the circulatory and lymph systems while comforting and soothing.

Eucalyptus Radiata supports healthy sinus and lung function.

Spruce "helps the respiratory and nervous systems." (Essential Oils Pocket Reference, 171).

And finally we have Peppermint, which tops off the blend perfectly. It powerfully supports the respiratory system and is cooling, invigorating, and energizing. Much like Lavender, it soothes discomfort and supports the entire body.

Specific Blends & Uses:

• Diffuse with Lemon, Ravintsara, and/or Wintergreen to support the respiratory and immune systems, and purify the air.
• Diffuse with Geranium and Copaiba for a relaxing, uplifting atmosphere.
• Diffuse with Copaiba and Cedarwood to support restful sleep.
• Combine with Melaleuca and Lemon in a roll-on blend to support the respiratory system.
• Combine with Copaiba and Geranium in a roll-on blend to relax, soothe, and uplift.
• Combine with Frankincense, Copaiba, and/or Wintergreen in a roll-on blend to soothe tense or sore muscles.
• Add to bath salts with Lavender and Geranium for a relaxing detox bath.

This blend is so popular and useful that it was recently added to the new 2015 Premium Essential Oils Collection. It smells so fresh, sharp, minty, and clean that I just love diffusing it. It would also be great added to a humidifier, but be aware that essential oils can begin to dissolve and react with plastic over time. Conveniently, diffuser act as both air purifiers and humidifiers! A diffuser of your choosing, R.C., Peppermint, Lavender, Lemon, Copaiba, and Frankincense are all included in the Premium Starter Kit, plus so much more. It's the perfect way to try out some of the most popular, useful, best quality oils! Email me at rach.dorian@gmail.com to learn more. I love to answer questions about the oil lifestyle and mentor others in their journey.

*Disclaimer: This post is NOT intended as medical advice of any kind because I am not a doctor. These statements have not been tested or evaluated by the FDA and so they are not intended to cure, treat, or prevent disease. They only help your body to do what it was meant to do, like nutritional supplements. Caution should be exercised with first time oil use - skin patch tests prior to use and dilution with carrier oil - especially in children. Children, especially under the age of 6, should never ingest essential oils without advice of a healthcare professional since they are concentrated and potent. If you are under the care of a physician, nursing, taking prescription medication, or pregnant please consult your doctor prior to use. Keep essential oils out of reach of children.

Jump Start your Wellness Journey with Essential Oils

I always thought essential oils sounded way too good to be true before I tried them! Then, when I started to get interested in and hear more about how useful these oils are, I thought I could never afford them. Sound familiar? Well, fear no more, because the brand new 2015 Starter Kits have been released and they are the best possible value for the highest quality oils on the market! I did a lot of research before jumping in with essential oils, because while the Premium Starter Kit is half the price of what its components would retail for separately, it was still a major investment. Months later, I am still SO glad I chose Young Living and the Premium Starter Kit to jump start mine and my family's journey toward greater wellness. These kits are truly worth their weight in gold because of their life changing and even money saving possibilities!

Did you know there are multiple Starter Kits available at a range of prices? The Premium Starter Kits are the best possible value and the best way to jump start your journey toward better health and wellness! And there are six different and equally useful Premium Starter Kits available. So, what's new in these lovely starter kits? The to die for Stress Away blend has replaced Citrus Fresh as the bonus oil and is included in every single kit! The Premium Starter Kits now come with a range of different diffusers. And instead of Melaleuca (Tea Tree), Joy, and Stress Away, the Premium Essential Oils Collection comes with Copaiba, R.C., and DiGize - some of the most popular essential blends and single.

The change I am MOST excited about though are the redesigned essential oil bottle labels! They are so professional, legible, functional, and just plain beautiful. Plus, they now have a a clear line in the back to show how full or empty the bottle is so you can anticipate the need for a refill much more effectively.

Even if essential oils or any starter kit seems to be way out of your price range, there is something for everyone and every budget at Young Living. A Basic Starter Kit includes the following for a totally affordable price:

• 5-ml Stress Away™
• AromaGlide™ Roller Fitment
• 10 Sample Packets
• 10 Love It? Share It! Sample Business Cards
• 10 Love It? Share It! Sample Oil Bottles
• 2 NingXia Red® 2-oz. samples
• Product Guide and Product Price List
• Essential Oil Magazine
• Essential Edge
• Member Resources

For those who are looking for the absolute best that Young Living has to offer at an incredible value, the Premium Starter Kit with the Aria diffuser is the way to go! The Aria diffuser features LED lighting, a remote, and even acts as a speaker system that can connect with your phone to set the perfect mood along with the rejuvenating power of diffused essential oils.

• Aria Diffuser
• Premium Essential Oils Collection:
  • Lavender 5-ml
  • Peppermint 5-ml
  • Lemon 5-ml
  • Copaiba 5-ml
  • Frankincense 5-ml
  • Thieves® 5-ml
  • Purification® 5-ml
  • R.C.™ 5-ml
  • DiGize™ 5-ml
  • PanAway® 5-ml
• Stress Away™ 5-ml
• AromaGlide™ Roller Fitment
• 10 Sample Packets
• 10 Love It? Share It! Sample Business Cards
• 10 Love It? Share It! Sample Oil Bottles
• 2 NingXia Red® 2-oz. samples
• Product Guide and Product Price List
• Essential Oil Magazine
• Essential Edge
• Member Resources

If you are looking for a mid-price ranged, sleek, and professional starter kit, the Premium Starter Kit with a Bamboo diffuser is an excellent choice! The Bamboo diffuser diffuses over a wider range, not nearly as much as the Aria, but more than the Dewdrop or Home Diffusers. It is also beautiful, sleek, slim, white, gender neutral, and the perfect, almost invisible addition to any room.

• Bamboo Diffuser
• Premium Essential Oils Collection;
  • Lavender 5-ml
  • Peppermint 5-ml
  • Lemon 5-ml
  • Copaiba 5-ml
  • Frankincense 5-ml
  • Thieves® 5-ml
  • Purification® 5-ml
  • R.C.™ 5-ml
  • DiGize™ 5-ml
  • PanAway® 5-ml
• Stress Away™ 5-ml
• AromaGlide™ Roller Fitment
• 10 Sample Packets
• 10 Love It? Share It! Sample Business Cards
• 10 Love It? Share It! Sample Oil Bottles
• 2 NingXia Red® 2-oz. samples
• Product Guide and Product Price List
• Essential Oil Magazine
• Essential Edge
• Member Resources

 The Premium Starter Kit with the Dewdrop diffuser is the most affordable of the premium starter kits and an amazing value. The Dewdrop diffuser kit is equivalent to and the same value as the Home diffuser Premium Starter Kit (pictured above). The only real difference is that the Dewdrop diffuser is a bit more gender neutral and less conspicuous than the gorgeous Home diffuser.

• Dewdrop Diffuser
• Premium Essential Oils Collection;
  • Lavender 5-ml
  • Peppermint 5-ml
  • Lemon 5-ml
  • Copaiba 5-ml
  • Frankincense 5-ml
  • Thieves® 5-ml
  • Purification® 5-ml
  • R.C.™ 5-ml
  • DiGize™ 5-ml
  • PanAway® 5-ml
• Stress Away™ 5-ml
• AromaGlide™ Roller Fitment
• 10 Sample Packets
• 10 Love It? Share It! Sample Business Cards
• 10 Love It? Share It! Sample Oil Bottles
• 2 NingXia Red® 2-oz. samples
• Product Guide and Product Price List
• Essential Oil Magazine
• Essential Edge
• Member Resources

 The Premium Starter Kit with the Home Diffuser (pictured above) is such an incredible value for access to a life changing lifestyle with essential oils. It's my personal favorite, and equivalent to the kit I started with with just a couple of changes.

• Home Diffuser
• Premium Essential Oils Collection;
  • Lavender 5-ml
  • Peppermint 5-ml
  • Lemon 5-ml
  • Copaiba 5-ml
  • Frankincense 5-ml
  • Thieves® 5-ml
  • Purification® 5-ml
  • R.C.™ 5-ml
  • DiGize™ 5-ml
  • PanAway® 5-ml
• Stress Away™ 5-ml
• AromaGlide™ Roller Fitment
• 10 Sample Packets
• 10 Love It? Share It! Sample Business Cards
• 10 Love It? Share It! Sample Oil Bottles
• 2 NingXia Red® 2-oz. samples
• Product Guide and Product Price List
• Essential Oil Magazine
• Essential Edge
• Member Resources

For the devoted or aspiring athlete in need of a daily boost there is the incredible Premium Starter Kit with NingXia Red. It is an antioxidant rich, energizing drink formulated by Young Living that supports general wellness and energizes. It is excellent added to juice, smoothies, or any other energy drink. Plus, it's an incredibly healthy alternative to the sugar and caffeine that we too often fall back on to get us through the day.

• NingXia Red 2-pack
• 30 NingXia Red Singles (2 fl. oz. ea.)
• NingXia Nitro
• 5-ml Stress Away™
• AromaGlide™ Roller Fitment
• 10 Sample Packets
• 10 Love It? Share It! Sample Business Cards
• 10 Love It? Share It! Sample Oil Bottles
• 2 NingXia Red 2-oz. samples
• Product Guide and Product Price List
• Essential Oil Magazine
• Essential Edge
• Member Resources

And finally, there is a Premium Starter Kit with Young Living's infamous Thieves products. Thieves is an essential oil blend formulated based on four thieves who robbed the dying and the dead during the Bubonic Plague and escaped illness by covering themselves in a mixture of herbs. "This Starter Kit is ideal for those wishing to replace harmful chemicals in the home with powerful, natural alternatives." I use Thieves in my indispensable All Purpose Cleaner  and Sanitizing Spray because it's so powerful and yummy smelling. And the Thieves toothpaste has done wonders for strengthening my weak, sensitive teeth.

• 15-ml Thieves
• Thieves AromaBright™ Toothpaste
• Thieves Fresh Essence Plus Mouthwash
• 2 Thieves Cleaner
• 2 Thieves Foaming Hand Soap
• 2 Thieves Spray
• 2 Thieves Waterless Hand Purifier
• 5-ml Stress Away™
• AromaGlide™ Roller Fitment
• 10 Sample Packets
• 10 Love It? Share It! Sample Business Cards
• 10 Love It? Share It! Sample Oil Bottles
• 2 NingXia Red® 2-oz. samples
• Product Guide and Product Price List
• Essential Oil Magazine
• Essential Edge
• Member Resources

Do you want to know what the very best part of jumping into essential oils with a starter kit is? Let me tell you - it's those invaluable Member Resources listed at the bottom of each kit. Member Resources include the following:

• 24% Discount on ALL Young Living products only so long as you make a 50PV (usually about $50) purchase PER YEAR. And yes, your premium starter kit will qualify as your PV order for your first year. All of the Premium Starter Kits are valued at 100PV. But the Basic Starter Kit, while significantly cheaper than the others, has no PV (point value). 
• Access to the Essential Rewards program. This is a totally optional program that you can enter and leave at any time for any reason. It allows you to make monthly purchases while earning a percentage of the PV back to redeem for free product. It also allows you to redeem free oils and promotional offers from Young Living with qualifying purchases. The longer you participate in the program, the greater your percentage of points earned will be.
• Free mentoring and education from a sponsor who is committed to guiding you in your wellness journey and will often offer promotional offers of their own.
• The Opportunity (never an obligation) to share the Young Living lifestyle with others and earn commission as others join your oiling team.

Signing up with a Premium Starter Kit was one of the smartest moves I ever made for me and my family. It is such an incredible community and opportunity to improve your health and happiness in the way that nature intended. Set yourself up for success in life and with these powerful oils by jumping in with a starter kit that fits your specific lifestyle. By choosing me as your sponsor you will qualify for monthly promotions plus devoted mentoring and essential oil education! You can get started on this empowering journey by clicking here and entering my member number 2546134. If you're simply interested in learning more feel free to email me at rach.dorian@gmail.com with any questions you may have!

*Disclaimer: This post is NOT intended as medical advice of any kind because I am not a doctor. These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA and so they are not intended to cure, treat, or prevent disease. The oils only help your body to do what it was meant to do, like nutritional supplements. Caution should be exercised with first time oil use - skin patch tests prior to use and dilution with carrier oil - especially in children. Children, especially under the age of 6, should never ingest essential oils without advice of a healthcare professional since they are concentrated and potent. If you are under the care of a physician, nursing, taking prescription medication, or pregnant please consult your doctor prior to use. Keep essential oils out of reach of children.

Geranium: Uplifting Skin Care

Geranium is reported to be beneficial for all skin types - sensitive, dry, and oily skin alike. It is most often used for calming, uplifting, hormonal support, and skin care. I use it daily in both my DIY Hair Serum, Facial Cleanse & Moisturizer, and Hand & Bath Soap. Plus, it is a principal ingredient in two of my all time favorite blends - Gentle Baby & Joy - which are amazing for both expectant mothers and children's overall emotional balance and skin care.* Geranium has a sweet, citrus-rosy, fresh scent that smells like rose perfume to me. It is much like Rose, but at a quarter of the price. That is one of the best perks about Young Living essential oils - no matter what might be out of stock, out of budget range, or just not your favorite, there will always be a substitute.

Young Living says: "Geranium essential oil has an uplifting, floral aroma. Diffuse its balancing, peaceful, and calming aroma or apply it topically to help maintain the appearance of tender skin. Geranium includes the naturally occurring constituents citronellol and geraniol, and is an important ingredient in many skin care products, including ART® Creme Masque, Boswellia Wrinkle Cream™, and Animal Scents™ Ointment, as well as Acceptance™, Awaken™, Believe™, and Clarity™ essential oils blends. "

Geranium is so excellent for skin care, fragrance, and balance that it is included in a wide variety of Young Living blends and personal care products. A few I hope to try are Acceptance, AromaGuard Meadow Mist Deodorant, Awaken, Clarity, Copaiba Vanilla Moisturizing Conditioner and Shampoo, Dragon Time Bath & Shower Gel, Endoflex, Envision, Evening Peace Bath & Shower Gel, Forgiveness, Gentle Baby (have it, love it), Gratitude, Harmony, Inspiration, Joy, JuvaFlex, JuvaTone, KidScents Bath Gel, KidScents Lotion, Lady Sclareol, Relaxation, Release, Trauma Life, etc. Well, maybe more than a few. Hopefully, you can see why it might be incredibly useful to have on hand. It is one that can be applied "neat" or undiluted and in higher concentration except for children under 2 and those with sensitive skin. When diluted it is generally regarded as safe for all skin types and ages.

I find that whenever I am overly hormonal, I also break out. So, it is very helpful to have Geranium for both those unfortunate things. It would also make a nice substitute for Lavender if necessary and that is no small task.

Specific Blends & Uses:

• Add to your favorite personal care and skin products to enhance their effects.
• Add to epsom salts with Lavender and Copaiba for a calming, soothing, and uplifting bath.
• Diffuse with Lavender and Copaiba to create a relaxing, soothing, uplifting, and romantic atmosphere.
• Combine with Lavender and Copaiba to nourish and protect tender skin in an All Natural Hand & Bath Soap.
• Combine with Frankincense, Melaleuca Alternifolia, Lavender, and Purification to cleanse and nourish skin in a Facial Cleanse & Moisturizer.
• Combine with Cedarwood, Stress Away, and Lavender to create a protecting, detangling, and nourishing Hair Serum.
• Diffuse or combine in a roll-on blend with Lemon to uplift, energize, support the immune system, and create a fresh spring or summer like atmosphere.
• Diffuse or combine in a roll-on blend with Stress Away to support restful sleep, create a sweet, floral perfume, calm, and balance the emotions.
• Use along with Lavender, Cedarwood, and Frankincense for children's skin and emotional care.

Do yourself a favor and try this amazing oil. Feel free to email me at rach.dorian@gmail.com to learn more. I would love to hear from you.

 *Disclaimer: This post is NOT intended as medical advice of any kind because I am not a doctor. These product(s) have not been tested or evaluated by the FDA and so they are not intended to cure, treat, or prevent disease. They only help your body to do what it was meant to do, like nutritional supplements. Caution should be exercised with first time oil use - skin patch tests prior to use and dilution with carrier oil - especially in children. Children, especially under the age of 6, should never ingest essential oils without advice of a healthcare professional since they are concentrated and potent. If you are under the care of a physician, nursing, taking prescription medication, or pregnant please consult your doctor prior to use. Keep essential oils out of reach of children.

Purification - Air Freshener

There is such a wide variety of home and wellness uses for Purification, it's crazy. This Young Living proprietary blend is really the best first step toward creating a more chemical and odor free home in the healthiest, yummiest way. No starter kit or cleansing would be complete without it! I would describe it as both sharp and clean smelling. It is guaranteed to cut through any nasty odor, cleanse, and soothe whatever it comes into contact with.

Young Living says: "Purification® Essential Oil Blend helps freshen the air and eliminate odors with its unique combination of Citronella, Lemongrass, Lavandin, Rosemary, Tea Tree, and Myrtle essential oils, and includes naturally occurring compounds cineol, neral, and geranial. Add Purification oil to Animal Scents™ products to moisturize skin and improve the appearance for healthy looking skin or apply topically to enjoy the outdoors annoyance free."

The first essential oil ingredient is Citronella. It is a "powerful antioxidant ... and relaxant" (Essential Oils Pocket Reference, 55) with a refreshing and uplifting aroma. It supports the respiratory and digestive systems, soothes discomfort, calms, and cleans.

The next ingredient is Lemongrass which "is used for purification and digestion" (86). It supports the respiratory and digestive systems. It is often used for air purification - neutralizing odors and toxins.

Then there's Rosemary, which "was part of the 'Marseilles Vinegar' or 'Four Thieves Vinegar' that bandits who robbed the dead and dying used to protect themselves during the 15th century plague" (108-109). It supports the liver, cellular normalcy, the respiratory system, circulation, and the immune system while it soothes, cleanses the skin, and enhances mental clarity and concentration.

Melaleuca Alternifolia "also known as tea tree" supports respiratory, oral, heakthy skin, and the immune systems (91).

Then there is Lavandin, similar to but NOT to be confused with the gentler more child friendly Lavender. It is very similar and works much the same way as Lavender, but it is a stronger purifier, making it ideal for cleansing, but not nearly as suited for soothing sensitive skin (83).

Finally, there is Myrtle. Myrtle supports the thyroid, the respiratory system, the liver, and skin health (97). This is a plant and essential oil referenced throughout the Bible as well.

Specific Blends & Uses:

• Add a couple drops of Purification and Lemon to smelly laundry to deodorize and purify.
• Add Purification to smelly shoes or paint to neutralize odors.
• Add Purification, Frankincense, and Lavender to enhance skin care products.
• Combine Purification with Lavender, Geranium, Melaleuca, and Frankincense to create a Facial Cleanse & Moisturizer.
• Combine with Melrose, Peppermint, and Thieves to create an Anti-itch Outdoors spray.
• Diffuse with Peppermint, Copaiba, and Lemon to support the respiratory system, concentration, and purify the air.
• Diffuse with Copaiba and Lavender to support restful sleep, the respiratory system, soothe, and uplift.
• Combine in a roll-on blend with Copaiba, Lavender, and Frankincense to support skin and emotional balance, purify, and soothe discomfort.
• Take as a dietary supplement with Lemon and Copaiba to strengthen the body, calm, soothe, and detox.

If you want to learn more about how this blend and other essential oils can benefit you and your family email me at rach.dorian@gmail.com! I would love to hear from you and answer all your questions.

*Disclaimer: This post is NOT intended as medical advice of any kind because I am not a doctor. These statements have not been tested or evaluated by the FDA and so they are not intended to cure, treat, or prevent disease. They only help your body to do what it was meant to do. Caution should be exercised with first time oil use - skin patch tests prior to use and dilution with carrier oil - especially in children. Children, especially under the age of 6, should never ingest essential oils without advice of a healthcare professional since they are concentrated and potent. If you are under the care of a physician, nursing, taking prescription medication, or pregnant please consult your doctor prior to use. Keep essential oils out of reach of children.

DiGize - Digestive Support

Can we talk about Young Living's life changing DiGize blend for a minute? I was so excited when I realized that Young Living was adding it to their new Premium Starter Kits because it is honestly indispensable in any essential oil wellness regimen. It is a dietary supplement, meaning it was formulated to be generally regarded as safe for human consumption, and the perfect supplement to any  healthy weight maintenance or wellness journey. Since it's chalk full of antioxidants and vitamins found in the essential oils that support digestion, it is an ideal supplement for every day life, travel, or in an effort to support digestive comfort. In fact, you'll notice that most of the oils therein are popular cooking spices.

Young Living says: "DiGize™ is one of Young Living's exclusive and proprietary dietary supplements. This unique blend contains Ginger, Anise, Fennel, Peppermint, Tarragon, Lemongrass, Patchouli, and Juniper essential oils, and includes naturally occurring constituents like menthol, citrol, and zingiberen. Use DiGize with every meal, along with Essentialzymes-4™, to support a daily wellness regimen*. When traveling abroad, use DiGize as a dietary supplement in your water. DiGize is an ideal complement to the nutritional supplements ComforTone® and JuvaTone®."

The first essential oil ingredient in this beautiful blend is Tarragon. It supports the digestive system and general wellness. It has also been used to support emotional balance and PMS management (Essential Oils Pocket Reference, 117).

Ginger is another very popular cooking ingredient. It supports digestive comfort, energizes, and soothes occasional nausea. (Essential Oils Pocket Reference, 74).

"Peppermint is one of the oldest and most highly regarded herbs for soothing digestion." It also energizes, cools and refreshes, and supports healthy weight management (Essential Oils Pocket Reference, 103).

Juniper "works as a powerful detoxifier and cleanser and supports healthy kidney function." It can also help alleviate occasional bloating by supporting healthy kidney and urinary tract function. It's even used to support emotional well being (Essential Oils Pocket Reference, 139, 82).

Fennel "is stimulating to the gastrointestinal system ... For hundreds of years, Fennel seeds have been used" to support healthy digestion and hormonal balancing (Essential Oils Pocket Reference, 68, 139). I have very successfully used it to maintain or increase breast milk production, myself.

Anise supports digestion and is similar to Fennel in that it can support hormonal balance (Essential Oils Pocket Reference, 139).

Patchouli belongs to the mint family and has a variety of uses, including supporting healthy digestion, helping alleviate occasional nausea and bloating, and supporting relaxation (Essential Oils Pocket Reference, 103, 139).

Lemongrass "is used for purification and digestion support" (Essential Oils Pocket Reference, 86).

Specific Blends & Uses:

• Combine in a veggie capsule with Copaiba, Lemon, and/or Frankincense to soothe occasional digestive discomfort, support the immune and digestive systems.
• Take as a dietary supplement while traveling or trying to maintain a healthy weight and hormonal balance.
• Combine in a roll-on blend or veggie capsule with Lemon, Lavender, and/or Copaiba to soothe, relax, and support digestion.
• Diffuse with Lavender, Lemon, and Copaiba to soothe and support restful sleep and emotional balance.

Email me at rach.dorian@gmail.com if you're interested in learning more about how essential oils can benefit you and your family! I love to answer questions and mentor others in their wellness journeys.

*Disclaimer: This post is NOT intended as medical advice of any kind because I am not a doctor. These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA and so they are not intended to cure, treat, or prevent disease. The oils only help your body to do what it was meant to, like nutritional supplements. Caution should be exercised with first time oil use - skin patch tests prior to use and dilution with carrier oil - especially in children. Children, especially under the age of 6, should never ingest essential oils without advice of a healthcare professional since they are concentrated and potent. If you are under the care of a physician, nursing, taking prescription medication, or pregnant please consult your doctor prior to use. Keep essential oils out of reach of children.

All Natural, Moisturizing Hand & Bath Soap

So, I recently downloaded the ThinkDirty app and realizing how many of our personal care products were a 9-10 rating on the toxin scale, mainly for carcinogenicity and developmental & reproductive toxicity, I was thoroughly horrified. My baby's soap that I have been using on her for her entire, little, sensitive, rapidly growing, and impressionable two years of life is a 9 on the toxicity scale for developmental & reproductive toxicity and a 4 on the carcinogenicity scale. How? Well, the mysterious label "fragrance" is legally allowed to be used in every personal care product to mask dangerous, toxic chemicals and is rated as a 9. And three other ingredients - Sodium Laureth Sulfate, Peg 150 Distearate, Iodopropynyl Butylcarbamate  - are a 4 on the carcinogenicity scale. Our hand soap was only worse on the toxicity scale - a full on 10 for Carcinogenicity with Dmdm Hydantoin (a chemical like this is pretty common in hand soaps), and a 9 for "fragrance" on the developmental & reproductive toxicity. I'm sure the amounts are small, but when it's in almost all of our personal care and cleaning products that we use on a repetitive, daily basis, we are surely overloading our bodies with toxins whose effects may take years to be completely known.

I know it's easy to feel jaded and complacent with the rationalization that "everything is toxic and causes cancer," but I will no longer let that stop me from trying to make healthier choices for me and my family. With my precious little girl, the stakes are just too high. I wish I could afford to completely eliminate our toxic, chemical products and replace them with far healthier alternatives, but for now I can't. I also can not afford the health consequences of not at least starting to try, little by little, to live healthier. It is possible if you're willing to make your health a priority in your life.

Young Living creates effective, natural and essential oil empowered alternatives to nearly every chemical, toxic product on the market. Unfortunately, I can't always afford them yet, so whenever possible or if something is out of stock, I try to make my own alternative. Plus, it's rather fun to experiment and create a product uniquely designed to meet your own individual and family needs.

This hand & bath soap recipe is still being experimented with and perfected, nor is it my own original creation. I got it from @ashleymartinessentials on Instagram because I was looking for a functional essential oil soap recipe that would be soft on mine and my daughter's sensitive skin. We live in a dry area, and during the winter soaps really dry out our skin. I modified the original recipe a bit to fit our own needs and so far I really like it.

Large glass or stainless steel soap dispenser (for storing essential oils safely)

1/2 cup full fat Coconut Milk (the kind that comes in a can)

3/4 cup Unscented, Baby Mild Dr. Bronner's Castile Soap

2 tbsp. Vitamin E oil (this is perhaps the most expensive part and can be substituted with vitamin e oil diluted with coconut oil or extra aloe vera gel).

1/4 cup Fractionated Coconut Oil (or your favorite carrier oil).

1 tbsp. Vegetable Glycerine (I omitted this in mine since it's really just for texture and extra bubbles).

1-2 tbsp. Aloe Vera Gel

10 drops Lavender essential oil

10 drops Geranium essential oil

10 drops Copaiba essential oil

I chose these specific essential oils because I love their smell and how nourishing they are for the skin. You can always experiment with the amount and type of essential oils for your individual needs. Some other great combinations would be Melaleuca, Lavender, and Frankincense; Thieves, Lavender, and Copaiba; Stress Away and Geranium; Gentle Baby and Copaiba for younger children and pregnant women. The oils I chose and others like Melaleuca, Gentle Baby, and Frankincense are particularly gentle on even sensitive skin types and can always be diluted or eliminated if sensitivity occurs.

Even after learning how toxic our personal care product were, it took me a few weeks to scrape up enough time, energy, and materials to make this soap. It's never too late to start and it is so worth any inconvenience and extra expense to have that extra peace of mind. Why not starting using products that help our bodies do what they were meant to do, rather than potentially damage them in the long run? Worth it.

Email me at rach.dorian@gmail.com if you would like to learn more about how essential oils can benefit you and your family. I would love to hear from you!

*Disclaimer: This post is NOT intended as medical advice of any kind because I am not a doctor. These product(s) and statements have not been tested or evaluated by the FDA and so they are not intended to cure, treat, or prevent disease. Caution should be exercised with first time oil use - skin patch tests prior to use and dilution with carrier oil - especially in children. Children, especially under the age of 6, should never ingest essential oils without advice of a healthcare professional since they are concentrated and potent. If you are under the care of a physician, nursing, taking prescription medication, or pregnant please consult your doctor prior to use. Keep essential oils out of reach of children.

Marjoram: Relaxing Muscle Soother

Did you know that "Marjoram was known as the 'herb of happiness' to the Romans and 'joy of the mountains' to the Greeks?" (Essential Oils Pocket Reference, 90). I added Marjoram to my oil collection for its soothing properties on both the body and the mind. I was very excited to try it along with my equally amazing Frankincense and PanAway during my menstrual cycle and it did NOT disappoint. It was very uplifting, soothing, and relaxing. I have found that Frankincense, Marjoram, and Lemon in a veggie capsule along with PanAway in a roll-on blend are incredibly effective at soothing and relaxing sore, tired, or tense muscles.

Young Living says: "Marjoram (Origanum majorana) has a woody, spicy aroma. A calming oil, it has a warming effect on both mind and body and soothes tense muscles after exercise. It is beneficial for occasional simple nervous tension* and may also be used for cooking. Marjoram has an approximate ORAC of 1,390,055 (TE/L). TE/L is expressed as micromole Trolox equivalent per liter."

Specific Blends & Uses:

• Diffuse with Lemon and Peppermint or Thieves to support the respiratory system.
• Take in a veggie capsule with Frankincense and Copaiba to soothe discomfort.
• Take in a veggie capsule with Frankincense and Thieves to support the immune system, soothe, and uplift.
• Diffuse or combine in a roll-on blend with Lavender and Copaiba or Stress Away to calm, uplift, and support restful sleep.
• Take in a veggie capsule with DiGize to support the digestive system and digestive comfort.
• Combine in a roll-on blend with PanAway to soothe tired, tense, or sore muscles.
• Diffuse with Purification or PanAway to eliminate odors naturally and support the respiratory system. 
• Add to epsom salts along with Lavender and Copaiba for a relaxing, soothing bath.
• Add to favorite recipes for some extra zest.

If you haven't tried this oil yet, you have got to add it to your list. It is generally regarded as both safe for human consumption and safe for children.* Email me at rach.dorian@gmail.com to learn more! I would love to hear from you.

 *Disclaimer: This post is NOT intended as medical advice of any kind because I am not a doctor. These product(s) have not been tested or evaluated by the FDA and so they are not intended to cure, treat, or prevent disease. They only help your body to do what it was meant to do, like nutritional supplements. Caution should be exercised with first time oil use - skin patch tests prior to use and dilution with carrier oil - especially in children. Children, especially under the age of 6, should never ingest essential oils without advice of a healthcare professional since they are concentrated and potent. If you are under the care of a physician, nursing, taking prescription medication, or pregnant please consult your doctor prior to use. Keep essential oils out of reach of children.