Thursday, February 4, 2016

Do Essential Oils Work? A Sales-Free Look At The Research

This is another great video!

It provides an objective view on essential oils and it presents research findings on a number of essential oils. Some are a little disappointing to me as a wellness advocate, but others are proven to be very effective. I am thankful that he was willing to do all this research and present the information honestly because there is so much in the essential oil industry that is glamorized. Not everything that is said will work, so it is nice to see evidence.

It is essential to do your research before using any oil as a treatment.



You can read the article this video is based on here http://www.dietvsdisease.org/do-essential-oils-work/



I hope you find this as useful as I have! (peppermint rocks!)



How Essential Oils Work in your Body

This video is very helpful if you have ever wondered how essential oils are able to help in cases like colds, flu, etc.

Friday, January 29, 2016

Classroom Diffusing

I found it to be very helpful as I have many people in my life who are teachers who use essential oils.
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On the surface, the act of diffusing in the classroom sounds like a great idea, until you take a closer look and understand the implications. There are many reasons it sounds like a good idea to diffuse in a classroom setting, here are a few reasons a teacher may choose to diffuse in their classroom

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  1. Kids carry and pass around a lot of germs! Let’s face it, they aren’t adept at personal hygiene  yet! ðŸ˜‰
  2. A learning space should feel calm, and kids need focus while learning, so logically it sounds beneficial to use essential oils that may potentially help create that type of environment.
To be completely honest, I think that teachers have no business diffusing in their classrooms without parental consent. As a teacher, you are not allowed to give a child an aspirin or allergy medication – why should using an essential oil be any different? Some children may react in a completely opposite manner than you intend them to. Some children may have asthma, an allergy to citrus  or deal with sensory processing disorder (SPD) and have an issue with strong scents or certain scents. Diffusing without allowing for input from parents is dangerous. School boards must adapt and adopt new policies when it comes to these practices, just as they have had to adopt allergy free “zones” or disallow homemade treats in classrooms for the safety of those who may have a negative reaction.
We all know that essential oils are so amazing, and in recent years have caused quite the trend in natural personal care, empowering families and allowing some to avoid visits to the doctor, take care of minor injuries and calm or uplift spirits. We can all agree that essential oils are amazing tools. BUT there are things that essential oils don’t do. At Plant Therapy – we strive for transparency and the education of our customers. With this in mind, let’s take a look at a few things that essential oils DO NOT do:
  1. Essential oils do not CURE diseases. Instead, essential oils help support functions {like immune response} that allow the body to do it’s job more efficiently. This is why we recommend you do not use essential oils daily, as a preventative, but rather when needed for illnesses. We don’t use antibiotics BEFORE we become ill, so why use an essential oil in the same way? For injuries, this means increasing blood flow or reducing swelling allowing the body to do the work of healing. Essential oils do not “heal” the injury. In the case of an injury, it’s best to use essential oils for the shortest time possible, then either rotate it with something else or discontinue use.
  2. Essential oils do NOT replace medication. Listen, I am just as “natural” as the next person. I strive for balance in my own life and urge you to do the same. It’s important to remember that we have come so far in the medical world. Physicians attend years of schooling in order to properly evaluate, diagnose and treat illnesses and other concerns. It’s foolish to think we can exist in a world without allopathic medicine. For emotional support or to manage minor pain – essential oils can be amazing tools. There is a time and place for modern medicine, and please don’t replace your prescription medication without first consulting with your family doctor.
  3. Essential oils should NOT be your go-to for every situation. Essential oils AREN’T for everyone or all situations.Please remember there are oils to avoid if you take certain medications or have certain health concerns, like diabetes or a blood clotting disorder.
  4. Essential oils DON’T last forever. We have discussed this in some detail before. Essential oils do have a shelf life, and you need to know what that is. Although they don’t expire (like food) once they oxidize, they can cause irritation to the skin or mucus membranes. For a refresher, refer to these three posts: Do Essential Oil Expire?Proper Essential Oil Storage, and Essential Oil Shelf Life (includes a chart!).
We live in an era where a child can be allergic to various things, and sometimes not even realize it. We all want the best for our kids. In a world where there are so many synthetics and chemicals, it’s nice to have the option of using something more natural. However, just because something is natural doesn’t make it completely safe. Essential oils should be used with caution around children. Education is the key to safe use! All children are different! These are general guidelines. However, there are certain oils to avoid with children such as birch and wintergreen because of the concern of developing Reye’s Syndrome. Oils high in menthol or 1,8-cineole should also be avoided since they can cause breathing concerns with young children. While this is rare – it can occur and should be taken seriously when choosing essential oils. The good news is there are so many oils that cover some of the same therapeutic properties that age-appropriate oils are easy to find!
Children under the age of two have the most restrictions on use. Essential oils for use on children ages 2 – 10 can be found here – kid safe chart. Once a child has reached age 10, unless they’ve shown a sensitivity or other reaction, nearly all oils are safe for use.
 Dilution rate
What is a dilution rate? This refers to the amount of essential oil in comparison to the amount of carrier oil (like grapeseed or coconut oil). We have a reference chart that lists the proper dilution rates. For children age 2 – 10 we recommend a 0.5% – 1% dilution. Here are a few of the reasons you want to dilute your oils:
  • To avoid skin reactions like rashes and phototoxicity (a severe sun reaction)
  • Children are still developing and their bodies don’t react in the same way an adults does.
  • To avoid a systemic issue like hepatoxicity or neurotoxicity (which are rare, but can occur).
Constituents to avoid
There are a few constituents that you want to avoid using on with certain children. They are listed below with the reasons why you’d want to avoid them
  • High menthol content in an essential oil, as found in Japanese peppermint and Peppermint, can slow breathing in very young children.
  • 1,8-Cineole. In excess of 40%, this is another constituent that can slow breathing in young children as previously mentioned. Found in Eucalyptus.
  • Methyl salicylate. Some people have sensitivity and this can cause issues for kids who have symptoms of ADHD. Also – this should be avoided generally in kids because of Reye’s Syndrome (as mentioned above)
Diffusing times
Diffusing should be kept to under 30 minutes for most kids. Extended periods of diffusion can increase the risks associated with sensitization – an extremely unfortunate side effect of over use (either inhaled or topically) to better understand this phenomenon, please refer to this article: Sensitization
Even after obtaining permission from the school board and parents, the concerns surrounding diffusing can extend beyond students and teachers. Many people enter a school each day from delivery person(s) to grandparents and other community members. It’s impossible to know who will/will not have a negative reaction to an oil being diffused. So, for the sake of public safety – I believe that essential oils should remain in the purview of your own home, or when in public the use of a personal inhaler should be used to limit other’s exposure!

Soooooo – just what are your options if you’d like to make aromatherapy a place in your classroom (or for your student at school) Check out our wonderful selection of aroma-jewelry or the cute personal inhalers so the scent can remain personal and not effect those around us!

Thursday, January 28, 2016

DIY Thursday: Lavender Linen Spray


DIY Thursday: Lavender Linen Spray
This is very easy to make and it is something the whole family will love!
It smells great and it is a great way to freshen up your house. Putting it on your pillow is a treat to fall asleep to!
Try it out and let us know what you think!

If you do not like lavender, you can supplement it with another oil that is described as "neat".

Wednesday, January 27, 2016

Science Behind Emotional Aromatherapy: Psychology Meets Chemistry!





This article outlines the unique chemical profiles of each of the 6 oils in dōTERRA's new Emotional Aromatherapy™ System!








By Dr. Damian Rodriguez, DHSc, MS
Scientists and psychologists have spent centuries trying to understand the phenomena we refer to as emotions. Although science cannot yet definitively explain the exact mechanisms, we do know that emotions have vast influence on many components of well-being. Employing the most current research and the purest essential oils, the new dōTERRA Emotional Aromatherapy™ System is the first in the industry to offer scientifically formulated blends for comprehensive, robust, and targeted emotional health benefits.
The easiest way to experience essential oils is aromatically, by utilizing our sense of smell. Most first experiences with essential oils are through basic diffusion (different methods of dispersing essential oils through a space so that one can experience their powerful aroma) or breathing in a few drops that were rubbed into one’s hands. The first thing one generally notices upon their introduction to essential oils is that the intensely fragrant compounds can instantly impact how you feel. Due to the amazing olfactory receptors, which identify odors and initiate the aromatic pathway, diffusing or directly inhaling essential oils is the most rapid and intense way to experience their influence on emotions.
Use of the dōTERRA Emotional Aromatherapy System is predicated upon their unique chemical profiles. Based on known benefits of specific chemical constituents, categories of essential oils can be established. By their chemical make-up, we can classify essential oils as having either calming or uplifting effects. Each essential oil group has specific constituent profiles known to elicit distinct emotional responses.
Floral essential oils are composed primarily of monoterpene alcohols, which exhibit toning and calming properties. Tree, herb, and grass essential oils are rich in sesquiterpenes, esters, and oxides, which are grounding, soothing, and renewing. On the other end of the spectrum, mint, citrus, and spice essential oils provide powerfully uplifting benefits. Mint essential oils have high concentrations of ketones, which are energizing and uplifting. Citrus oils are generally composed of limonene and beta-pinene, monoterpenes with strong uplifting characteristics. Phenols, the primary chemical constituents of many spice essential oils, are recognized for their warming properties.
Combining these CPTG® oils in precise ratios, the emotional aromatherapy blends establish a new, complete, and unique spectrum of emotional benefits. For ease of use, included in the kit is an instructional diagram that breaks down these categories.
The dōTERRA Emotional Aromatherapy System is based on chemistry. Beginning with a specific chemical profile, the blends were put together based on the known properties of their chemical constituents as opposed to simply providing a pleasant aroma. While responses can be highly individual, the blending of these specific essential oils has created a synergistic composition ideal to promoting healthy emotional responses.
dōTERRA Motivate™ Encouraging Blend is a wonderful combination of several citrus and mint essential oils, including Yuzu, Clementine, and Peppermint. This blend marks dōTERRA’s first use of Yuzu, the limonene-rich essential oil expressed from the peel of the mandarin-like Japanese fruit. The resulting chemical profile is high in monoterpenes and monoterpene alcohols, which are known for their uplifting and toning properties. Motivate is the perfect aromatic compliment to help promote feelings of confidence when working on an important school project.
dōTERRA Cheer™ Uplifting Blend is an invigorating mixture of citrus and spice essential oils. Featuring Wild Orange, Cinnamon Bark, and Star Anise essential oils, the resulting chemical profile is rich in monoterpene and aldehydes, renowned for their uplifting and warming properties. Comprised almost entirely of the phenylpropene anethole, Star Anise essential oil brings potent energizing characteristics to the new blend. Apply one drop of dōTERRA Cheer to your hands, rub together, and inhale deeply to help incite feelings of optimism.
dōTERRA Passion™ Inspiring Blend balances spice and herbal essential oils. Included in the blend is Damiana, a very rare essential oil rich in 1,8-cineole and alpha pinene, which is renowned for its renewing properties. Combining Cinnamon Bark, Ginger, Cardamom, Clove, and Damiana creates a chemical profile with high concentrations of phenols and ethers to provide warming and renewing benefits. Diffuse dōTERRA Passion at your work desk to help spark creativity.
dōTERRA Forgive™ Renewing Blend mixes familiar tree and herb essential oils to create a diverse chemical profile with high concentrations of monoterpene esters, alcohols, and sesquiterpenes. Most interesting is the introduction of Nootka Tree Wood, an essential oil with a very diverse chemistry composed primarily of soothing and grounding sesquiterpenes. Nootka Tree Oil is known largely for balancing emotions in stressful situations. Pure Thyme essential oil balances out the blend with potent renewing and toning properties. No meditation session is complete without diffusing dōTERRA Forgive to help encourage patience and contentment.
dōTERRA Console™ Comforting Blend combines floral and tree essential oils. The combination of Rose absolute, Ylang Ylang, Frankincense, Sandalwood, and several other highly valued tree and flower essential oils creates a blend rich in both monoterpenes and sesquiterpene alcohols. Labdanum absolute provides a number of interesting characteristics to the blend. High in alpha-pinene, Labdanum is highly renewing and its distinctive aroma is prized for its ability to balance competing scents. The final product mirrors its chemical structure and aromatic profile, being highly grounding and renewing. A drop or two of dōTERRA Console on your shirt collar can be that little extra you need to help counteract feelings of grief and sadness.
dōTERRA Peace™ Reassuring blend is a fusion of floral and mint essential oils. The union of popular essential oils such as Lavender and Spearmint, along with the essence of some lesser-known plants such as Labdanum, creates a chemical profile rich in monoterpene esters and alcohols for a renewing and toning experience. The resulting aromatic profile is calming and promotes feelings of peace and reassurance. Diffuse dōTERRA Peace at night to help promote the calming and restful sleep environment that you need to embrace the next day.
The dōTERRA Emotional Aromatherapy System is an innovative, easy, and versatile way to experience the profound benefits of aromatherapy. Discover for yourself how the six robust blends can help you balance your moods and take charge of your own emotional well-being.

Wellness Wednesday: Improve Social Wellness!


WHAT IS SOCIAL WELLNESS?
Social wellness refers to the relationships we have and how we interact with others. Our relationships can offer support during difficult times. Social wellness involves building healthy, nurturing and supportive relationships as well as fostering a genuine connection with those around you. Conscious actions are important in learning how to balance your social life with your academic and professional lives. Social wellness also includes balancing the unique needs of romantic relationships with other parts of your life.
WHY IS SOCIAL WELLNESS IMPORTANT?
Maintaining an optimal level of social wellness allows you to build healthy relationships with others. Having a supportive social network allows you to develop assertive skills and become comfortable with who you are in social situations. Surrounding yourself with a positive social network increases your self-esteem. Social wellness enables you to create boundaries that encourage communication, trust and conflict management. Having good social wellness is critical to building emotional resilience.
ROUTE TO SOCIAL WELLNESS:
As you begin your route to social wellness, you will discover that you have the power to enhance your personal relationships. Maintaining social wellness allows you to practice empathy and active listening. There are many ways you can begin your journey on the route to social wellness. Below are some suggestions on how to enhance your social wellness.
Reflect on yourself and your social needs.
**Comment Below: What aspects of your social life do you enjoy? What parts would you like to improve?**

Monday, January 25, 2016

Facebook Class Posts (Class Ended)


1. Welcome to our 'Introduction to Essential Oils' class! 
We are super excited you have chosen to spend your Monday night with us! 

The purpose of this class is to share a little bit about the big world of Essential Oils; what they are, how you can use them, and why we use them. 
We also want to share about why we chose dōTERRA as well as some of our favorite products. Lastly, we want to let you know about some amazing specials going on right now and show you how you can earn free products!
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2. Roll Call + Raffle Entry!
Comment below to let us know you're here and be entered to win our Roll Call Raffle!
Include: Your name, Where you're from, What you hope to learn during this class!
[**THE RAFFLE WINNER WILL BE ANNOUNCED AT 9:00PM**]
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3. Meet the Integrative Wellness Essentials Team: Jenise, Mandy, and Ashlee!
***Hi! My name is Jenise and I love my oils! I am married with two sweet little boys, and live in the Bay Area, specifically Alameda, CA. I have been using oils for a few years, but have been a doTerra Wellness Consultant for about a year. I was drawn to doTerra because I could really smell the difference in the oils, I loved their rewards program (hello, free stuff!), and because their vitamins were life changing. Literally. They help me feel my absolute best, and I do not exaggerate (on the vitamins...otherwise I love some well placed hyperbole 😀). I am here to answer any questions you might have, and am happy to share my experience!
***Hey! My name is Mandy. I started using essential oils last year and I love them! I am a recent college graduate and am soon to be married. I live in sunny Southern California with my family, who have all started using oils too! I love discovering new uses for my oils and I love helping people find new ways to use their oils too. It is amazing to me how many uses each oil has! I would be happy to answer any questions you may have!
***Hey! My name is Ashlee and I am loving my Essential Oils journey! I graduated from college last May I have begun my career in healthcare. I am also a proud Navy Officer's girlfriend and currently live in SoCal with my family! Health and Wellness are my life's passion! I began using essential oils last summer and they have transformed the way I think about life. I love finding new ways to incorporate oils into my life and love the perspective they've given me about the importance of paying attention to what's in, on, and around our bodies. I'm glad to share about how I use oils and I'm available to answer any questions you may have; if I don't know the answer already I'd love to do research and find the answer for you!
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4. Participation Drawing!
For every like and comment throughout the class you will gain and entry to our PARTICIPATION DRAWING!
So stay engaged and comment away! smile emoticon
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5. Intro to dōTERRA!
*Comment Below: What is your favorite thing about this video?*

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6. What Are Essential Oils??
*Comment Below: What's one thing you learned from this video?*


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7. Have you ever had an experience with Essential Oils?!?
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8. Three Ways to Use Essential Oils!
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9a. Essential Oil Spotlight: LAVENDER!


9b. Essential Oil Spotlight: PEPPERMINT!

9c. Essential Oil Spotlight: Frankincense!

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10. Why dōTERRA Essential Oils?

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11. Why we chose dōTERRA!
There are so many reasons we love dōTERRA and their products!
*Rewards Program
*Helping Hands Foundation
*Integrity of the Product
*Product Sourcing Choices
*Product of the Month
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12. What is the dōTERRA LOYALY REWARDS PROGRAM?!

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13. PAUSE!!
We know there has definitely been a lot of information presented so far! So we wanted to take a moment to see where everyone is at!
Do you have questions about any products?
Do you have questions about dōTERRA or the Loyalty Rewards Program?
How interested are you in getting started with essential oils?!
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14. Current Enrollment Promotions!
Are you interested in an essential oils wholesale/LRP account? Now is the perfect time to get started with an enrollment kit!
NEW YEAR NEW YOU!
*If you enroll before the end of January with a 100 PV order and do a 100 PV order on February-you get 100 PV free!
FREE ESSENTIAL OILS BOOK!
* Everyone that signs up with us on our team this month and places a 100PV next month will get the Essential Oil Life Book Free!

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15. Useful Resources!

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16. About the Integrative Wellness Essentials team!
** LIKE our page for CONTINUED ESSENTIAL OIL EDUCATION**
1. We want our team to promote INTEGRATIVE health! 
Integrative Medicine is a field of medicine that combines the practices and methods of alternative medicine with conventional medicine as it treats the 'whole person' and focuses on health and wellness rather than disease and symptom management.
2. We want our team to be focused on health and WELLNESS!
We believe that health and wellness is the overall maintenance and improvement of physical, emotional, psychological, and spiritual well-being.
3. We want our team to encourage the use of ESSENTIAL Oils!
Our team's goal is to positively influence others by sharing knowledge about essential oils and encouraging their use.
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18. THANK YOU FOR ATTENDING!!
We would love to continue talking with you and supporting you as you begin your journey with essential oils!
Please message us if you would like samples, gave additional questions, or if you are interested in setting up your wholesale account!
** COMMENT BELOW TO LET US KNOW WHAT WE CAN DO FOR YOU!**