I don’t think I’m weird. Using essential oils and natural products I don’t believe has made me strange. I’m still the mom driving a minivan trying to fit it all in and make it look good while doing it between career and family. I still love coffee in big cups, junk food that comes in bags and a good sappy, girl power chick flick. Yoga pants, messy hair buns and bare feet are sheer bliss some days. But something has definitely changed since I started using essential oils. I got interested in where else oils could improve my health and that of my family.  From using oils I started realizing there’s so much more room for change. I started reading, researching and asking questions about what different oils did and how they were used. I looked at what made oils different, compared different brands, the sourcing, the naysayers, the supporters, the medical opinions and anything I could get my hands on all the while using these two little samples. Working in the health care industry made it easy to get all kinds of opinions on alternative and natural health from both sides of the aisle. My face was all the proof I ultimately needed. It was hard to argue with the results I was personally seeing after years of trying everything without result to treat and manage adult acne and the appearance of 40-something skin care needs. I went with doTERRA because the results I experienced first hand were undeniable. In all honesty, I liked the company and what they offered. They’re solid, truthful, honest and caring.  I believe in their products and love the support and education I have received. The culture is unlike any I have seen in most corporations I’ve worked and in any other network marketing company I’ve ever seen. It’s positive, non-competitive, and truly focused on improving life and health for everyone. It is a model I wish were more prominent in corporations across industries. There is a true message of family, love and caring for one another. When I signed up with doTERRA I purchased their Home Essentials Kit. This kit contains the top 10 most frequently used oils and a high quality diffuser. Each of these oils are commonly used and a good base for starting an oil journey. Oregano – I use when there is illness coming on and in cooking Frankincense – I use in my skincare routine and we diffuse it for anxiety and stress Lavender – Gets regular use in the diffusers and in baths. I also use it for scrapes, cuts and sunburn relief DigestZen – Incredible oil blend that reliefs heartburn, indigestion, bloat, gas and upset stomach. Lemon – I use in my drinking water and cleaning around the house including laundry Breathe – Gets used most frequently in our diffusers at night and when we have sinus and allergies flaring up Melaleuca – The oil that saved my face! I also use this to clean bathroom counters, purify the house through the air filters and clean stinky things Deep Blue – Such a wonderful oil to use after working and playing in the yard to soothe tired muscles and joints Peppermint – A delightful treat in my morning coffee and diffuser when I need to focus on something challenging On Guard – This is the best illness preventative, germ fighting product I have ever found I continue to use these oils regularly and find new ways to apply them. The bottles last a very long time with each containing 250 drops per 15ml bottle. There is no other product you will buy that is that concentrated and pure. This kit cost me $225. A lot of people will have sticker shock at that considering you’re getting 10 little bottles and a diffuser. If you’ve never used oils before or used another kind that can seem like a lot of money. Let’s be real. It is a lot of money. There’s a lot you can do with that sum and it is the reason a lot of people will pause, perhaps consider a less expensive brand of oil or rethinking trying it. I get that. Let’s put that in perspective. It’s a lot of money upfront is the key. If you’re truly interested in changing your life, the enrollment kit is just the beginning physically, emotionally and financially for the better. If you consider that most of these oils have lasted over a year, even with every day use and I’m replacing things I was buying to use these instead I’m actually coming out ahead. Here’s just a few of the things we have replaced and are changing: I have not bought 1 bottle of surface cleaner in the past year. Instead I use Lemon, Melaleuca, Purify and the On Guard Concentrate Cleaner We have stopped buying toilet bowl cleaner – we still have some to use up but in its place we are using Purify and baking soda Laundry detergent is being replaced with On Guard Detergent. The bottle is 6 times concentrated and lasts about 60-65 loads. It is significantly less than the Tide mega bottle I was buying, fits better in my laundry cabinet and doesn’t gunk up my machine Skincare products – I have forever broken up with the cleaners, toners and moisturizers I was buying in favor of the skincare line at doTERRA Soap – we started making our own with oils and goat milk. We even made a coffee soap using grounds from our coffee maker. Toothpaste – I have started using the doTERRA toothpaste. It is phenomenal! (see prior posting regarding this toothpaste – yes I know we’re talking toothpaste but it is truly something to write about) Soda – I have kicked my daily Diet Dr. Pepper habit and instead use Lemon, Lavender, Wild Orange, Tangerine, Slim & Sassy and several other oils in my water. From this first kit, my interest in finding ways to reduce the toxic load in my home took off.  I started experimenting with these 10 oils to use them in as many ways as I could find.  The results were and still are impressive. I’ve also expanded to other oils and products from doTERRA to further replace cleaners, soaps, ingredients and other that we use around our home. I even recently replaced vitamins and supplements! I made the decision that if I was going to use essential oils for my personal health why would I turn around and continue using chemical based cleaners and soaps in my home environment? It’s not just an isolated area when you speak about improving your health. So yes, I think something has changed about me since I started using essential oils. I’ve started realizing how much toxic load we had in our normal house and daily lives. I’ve noticed how much different I physically and emotionally feel from using these oils. It’s like tasting good, clean, cold water after being parched in the hot sun. There’s a difference and it’s good, healthy, clean natural living. Interested in more? Are you wanting to take a look at how essential oils can work in your life? Are you interested in learning more about natural alternative health? Reach out via this blog or my email and let’s talk. dragonspitapothecary@aol.com If you’re ready to start your oil journey then contact me via my.doterra.com/dragonspitapothecary I will help you find the right oils and products for your areas of interest. doTERRA has a wonderful support structure so you do not have to do this alone. #health #alternativehealth #wellness #EssentialOils #home #natural #family

When I’m piecing a new quilt, attaching binding or quilting a top I have found the thread I use matters not only for the final look but for durability. I’m not a specific brand advocate when it comes to thread as I have found some very nice threads that were inexpensive and did a fabulous job and I love some of the name brand thread colors and texture. What I find is the type of thread you use influences how it’s going to come out. For instance with my quilts, I choose the quilting thread depending on the fabric and desired look I want to achieve. Sometimes a more solid sturdy polyester thread to stand out more firmly is preferred over a more delicate cotton thread on a quilt.  Sometimes I will even use a polyester thread on the bobbin and cotton in the top to mix the result and give the quilt a sturdy foundation with a softened imprint on the top.  This works very well on baby and children’s quilts that you know are going to get a lot of washing. The age of the thread can have little effect on it’s usability as long as it has been generally taken care of and stored correctly. I agree with the author of this blog http://thedreamstress.com/2012/10/does-thread-have-a-shelf-life/She’s used very old threads for numerous things without an issue. I too have found this to be mostly true in my own sewing. She even said she noticed vintage threads often leave less lint on her machine. I recently received a nice box from a dear friend containing a bunch of old threads. Among them I was really delighted to find old wooden spools of thread and some threads still had original price tags of 25 and 50 cents. Wooden spools are just super cool finds in this day of cardboard and plastic. Thread can go bad. All thread, whether new, old or vintage can go bad. If it’s breaking in your machine, snagging, separating or other undesirable outcomes and you’ve checked your tension, threading and bobbin it may just be a bad spot in the thread. When I find this happens, I unwind a very long piece of it and start in a new section to see if it’s just a weakness in one part of the thread.  I will change bobbins and needles as well to ensure it’s not those things causing the problems. I don’t think I have ever had to throw out a spool of thread because I found it completely unusable. There are some who will say you should never use old threads.  I say, when in doubt, test it on some scrap material before using it on your project. If the thread holds up and you like the outcome then sew away!  Why waste thread? Even if the thread is discolored it can still be used for piecing that no one will ever see. As long as it’s holding up, why not? Based on the age of some vintage quilts I’ve seen it appears the threads used at the time the quilt was made have held up just fine so why wouldn’t I want my quilts to also last that long if possible? I like to buy threads when I find them on sale and I will buy several colors at a time. Usually I will pick up several white, off-white and a few colors. Since most of my sewing is quilting I tend to stick with cotton and polyester threads. A couple times I’ve applied a shiny thread for the quilting design to have a silky effect. This chart has been one of my sewing resources for years. I still refer to it when I start a new project to check thread recommendations for the fabric I’ll be using. Happy sewing and quilting!  Share pictures of what’s on your machine and let me know the threads you use! Interested in more? Reach out to me with any questions. I’d love to hear how you use thread and decide what to thread to use for your quilts and projects. dragonspitapothecary@aol.com Many of my quilts and sewn items are listed for sale at dragonspitapothecary.com #sewing #home #Quilts #family #lifestyle

I am participating in and supporting my doTerra team in constructing a Facebook training camp on essential oils. It’s a go at your own pace group to help new users understand the oils and correctly use the ones they’ve purchased. I love the support and enthusiasm of this team in continually thinking of how to expand and support everyone’s oil use knowledge and welcome newcomers joining us. In my own reflection of this camp, I started thinking about some of the unique ways I use oils and how my own experience with them has expanded since I first started using them. There’s always so much more to explore with oils and while I feel very knowledgeable in a lot of areas there’s always more to learn It is comforting to know that with a moderate level of knowledge I can keep my family healthy, our home clean and spend a lot less on doctors and cleaners to accomplish these things. In addition to using our diffusers and applying oils to our person I have found some creative ways to use oils including: Peppermint inside my motorcycle helmet. Peppermint helps with focus and attention so it seems a handy place to use it when I’m on a ride. 2 drops in the liner A drop of Peppermint in my coffee or hot chocolate for a great twist – 1 drop is all My new hand warmers containing Sunny Citrus. See prior blog for details. It is uplifting and positive while keeping your hands toasty warm Washing machine de-gunking using white vinegar and Purify. Breaks down the gunk in the soap and softener compartments Purify in the laundry to work on the really dirty, smelly loads Lavender lemonade. Very divine Frankincense and Melaleuca on my face daily to help with acne, wrinkles and tone Soaps – we have been making our own! My favorite so far is the Rosemary-Lemon Oatmeal soap Lotion bars – I’m putting OnGuard in these to help kill germs while we moisturize our hands Lips – I made some lip balm with Lavender and Peppermint. Beard balm – conditions and softens my husband’s beard – I put Siberian Fir and Patchouli in the mix Headache balm – this is a mix of Peppermint, Lavender and Frankincense with melted beeswax. Super simple and effective. Counter top cleaner – simple Lemon and water – ok this one isn’t that unique but the cleaner is fabulous! I also like to use Melaleuca on the bathroom counters to kill germs in between cleanings. Melaleuca on the home’s air filters to purify the air and control allergens throughout the house Lemongrass, Basil, Marjoram and Myrrh for hypothyroid support Geranium in my night facial cream And this is only the highlights of how we’ve incorporated oils into our home! Check out my Pinterest board for many more ideas, recipes and ways to use essential oils. What are some of the unique ways you use essential oils? Interested in more? If you are new to essential oils or don’t know where to start, let me help! I will happily  answer any questions, offer suggestions and refer you to resources to support your oil journey.  Reach out to me via this blog or email at dragongspitapothecary@aol.com If you’re going to use essential oils, then make sure the oils you use are pure so you know you are getting your money’s value.  doTERRA’s oils are 100% pure and locally sourced around the world where the plants thrive naturally. doTERRA never uses synthetics, chemicals or fillers in their oils. Get yours through my website at my.doterra.com/dragonspitapothecary Prefer not to pay retail for your oils? Contact me for details. You do not have to sell oils, unless you want to, to enjoy the benefits of  wholesale membership. Get access to free products of the month, sales and specials with your membership. #health #alternativehealth #wellness #EssentialOils #beauty #home #family #lifestyle

Melaleuca, or more commonly known as tea tree oil, is a true lifesaver for your skin and home. I use the doTERRA Melaleuca oil and roller ball to treat and fend off breakouts and skin irritations on my face. I put one drop in my palm and dot it around my face on any areas I’m having a problem.  It is very helpful in oil control as well. In addition to skincare, this oil has many other uses: Apply to skin imperfections for a cleansing, rejuvenating effect. Use on occasional skin irritations by rubbing Melaleuca Touch onto affected area. Apply after shaving to soothe and cool skin. Rub on fingernails and toenails after showering to purify and keep nails looking healthy. Roll on bottoms of feet and inside shoes for a fresh aroma and feeling. Melaleuca can be used on surfaces throughout the home to protect against environmental threats. Putting a couple drops with your favorite lotion and applying to your legs after shaving is the best method for avoiding the red bumps of razor rash. It is also a good aftershave method for men. I also like to use Melaleuca to clean and disinfect bathroom counters. I use 3-4 drops and a small spray bottle of water to wipe down sinks and counters as a quick method to kill germs in between full cleanings. This oil is also great for freshening  and purifying the air as well as detoxifying areas of the home from germs, allergens and pet dander. Diffusing it brings a crisp, clean smell to the room.  I like to add 4-5 drops to the air filters when we change them to purify the air throughout the house.  I have also added this oil to my carpet shampoo machine to steam the carpets and effectively remove odors. When diffusing this oil, it combines well with many other oils for a unique fun twist. Try adding lemon, lavender or geranium to create interesting uplifting blends while purifying the room’s air. Have you used Melaleuca? Interested in more? If you’re interested in detoxifying and purifying your home and improving your skin, then you need doTERRA Melaleuca at your side. Reach out to me via my website my.doterra.com/dragonspitapothecary to order your oils. If you’d rather not pay retail for oils, let me know. There are options available to get wholesale pricing and you do not have to sell oils to enjoy the benefits . #alternativehealth #wellness #EssentialOils #home #family #lifestyle

I’ve never been a rock star in the kitchen. Most of my cooking is edible but not something to make me famous. Some of my exploits in the kitchen have turned a normal ” What did you make? ” into something of a comedy at our house. Like the time I made homemade, from scratch English muffins. Yep, this was straight from the Julia Child’s recipe. While I dislike English muffins, my husband and his family love them and I thought during one of their annual trips to see us I’d make up a batch of these versus buying a package of the nooks and crannies version. It was kitchen insanity at its best. Instead of grace, a cute British accent, cleverly used rolling pin and handsome apron it was chaos, swear words and flying flour. Personally, I think an English muffin is a piece bread with an identity crisis. Is it a muffin, a pita or just an ill formed piece of toast? Do the English even eat these types of “muffins?” If so, do they not realize the glory and beauty of a huge fluffy blueberry muffin warm from the oven with melting butter spread in the center? What do they call a real muffin? Why would I want nooks and crannies in my bread? Is it even technically a muffin? Here’s the recipe I used if you’d like to try them http://oneperfectbite.blogspot.com/2010/03/homemade-english-muffins-julia-child.html I made a lot of them and froze them for use during the time people would be at our home. To warm, I put them in a warm pan on the stove top and toasted them until lightly brown. This has only been done once in my kitchen. I now buy the nooks and crannies package and save the kitchen from needing it’s nooks and crannies cleaned. What complicated things have you attempted and never made again in the kitchen? #cooking #family #home #lifestyle

doTERRA’s Serenity oil blend is an oil I use almost daily. I would say I more often choose Serenity over Lavender when I’m filling my diffuser for the night and when I’m traveling. While one of the primary oils is lavender, it is much more complex in its aroma and has a lot of benefits. This oil as the name implies is part of the restful group of oils. That means the oils in this group promote rest, relaxation, emotional support and is soothing to both our body and mind. The complexity of Serenity’s aroma comes from a unique blend of these oils: Lavender Cedarwood Ho Wood Ylang Ylang Marjoram Roman Chamomile Vetiver Vanilla Bean Hawaiian Sandalwood I find the oil to be pleasant, not too flowery, peaceful and happy.  The primary benefits of this oil are of course, rest, relaxation, peacefulness and sleep. It is a fantastic oil to use when your mind is busy and you want to center yourself during meditation or preparing for sleep. Some of the ways I found to use this oil include: Diffusing it at night with doTERRA’s Breathe and Vetiver. The combination of these 3 oils promotes sleep and helps with snoring and respiratory issues at night Applying to my feet bottoms to promote relaxation Inhaling a couple drops to help with anxiety and stress “in the moment.” I will sometimes include a drop of Breathe to help with panic attacks and feeling like you can’t breathe during those times of very high stress. Applying it to my wrists, behind my ears and temples to ease stress and overthinking I have also recently started using the doTERRA Serenity soft gels at night.  In addition to using Serenity at night in my diffuser, when used with the soft gels I’m finding I’m waking up more rested and energized.  I have found the soft gels easier to use than sleep aids, prescription, over the counter, because I don’t feel drugged, forced to sleep or have a hard time waking up. The benefits of the Serenity soft gels include: Relieves occasional sleeplessness Promotes healthy relaxation and sleep Helps you get the refreshing sleep you need without leaving you feeling groggy or sleepy the next day Helps make a difference in the quality and the ease of going to sleep Encourages restful sleep Calms the nervous system Helps to reduce stress You can read more about the Serenity soft gels on the doTERRA website blog: https://www.doterra.com/US/en/doterra-serenity-restful-complex-softgels-concept Sleep, relaxation, stress management and anxiety relief are among the top areas of concern people will mention to me when we start talking about how essential oils can help them.  These issues are rampant in our overworked, highly stressed lives.  Drugs and medications for anxiety, depression and sleep are the most common prescriptions written by family doctors.  Where possible, I prefer to avoid expensive medications and doctor office bills in favor of or complimented with a natural solution. What natural solution have you found to help with sleep, relaxation and stress management? Interested in more? If you’d like to get a good night’s rest and relief from the stress of life, then doTERRA Serenity is the perfect natural solution to try. You can purchase Serenity oil blend or the soft gels at my website at my.doterra.com/dragonspitapothecary There are options to avoid paying retail prices for your essential oils. Contact me for information. If you have questions about Serenity or other essential oils, please let me know via this blog or email dragonspitapothecary@aol.com #health #alternativehealth #wellness #sleep #EssentialOils #home #family #lifestyle

In cooking there is a trinity of celery, pepper and onion that is the base of ingredients for many fabulous dishes. When you first start out using essential oils, there are  3 oils you will typically start out. I recommend every new user of essential oils start with these 3 oils as a way to determine if they are right for you and explore the basics of essential oil uses. Lavender Lemon Peppermint Comparatively speaking the 3 base oils cost less than most other oils and give a new user the opportunity to experiment and learn before expanding into more complex and expensive oils. Learning to use oils safely, developing an appreciation for the potency of the oils and forming your personal path to oil use is best started with these 3 basic common oils. Each has a multitude of uses and cover a great many  needs where an oil can help. Like cooking ingredients, these are the base oils and developing a good understanding of their uses will provide you a solid foundation to start your oil journey. Lavender Known commonly for its relaxing effects and ability to soothe emotions, lavender is often the very first oil people think about when they are new to essential oils.  Many who have no experience at all with oils will identify lavender and know at least one thing that it is used for. Due to its popularity, lavender, whether natural or chemically produced, is used in numerous products today including soaps, lotions, air fresheners, cleaners and more. In its pure form, lavender essential oil can do a lot more than just freshen the air. It provides a wealth of benefits for emotional and physical health and can be used topically, aromatically and internally every day personally and in your home. Some of the uses for lavender include: Acne treatment, skin rashes and hives Burns and scrapes Relaxation and meditation support Sleep enhancement Anxiety, depression and stress management Once you’ve experimented with lavender, you can explore other oils in this family including, petitgrain and patchouli. Lavender is commonly used in oil blends that are comforting, restful and restorative in nature. Lemon Lemon is the most common of the citrus essential oils. Citrus oils are known for their energizing and immunity boosting properties most commonly associated with vitamin C. Like lavender, lemon essential oil uses are numerous and provide many health and home benefits. It too can be used aromatically, topically and internally. Cleaning, degreasing and degunking Air cleaner Immunity boost Detoxification Bloat, water retention and gas support Emotional support There are at least 12 other citrus base oils a new user can grow from after trying lemon. Each can be used like lemon oil as well as other ways unique to the type of citrus oil. It is important to try several citrus oils if you find you don’t like or can’t tolerate one of them. Each will smell and respond differently based on the individual. Tangerine for instance is milder than Grapefruit or Lime that can be more tart and stronger in odor. Peppermint The strongest smelling of the trio is peppermint. Most people upon smelling a bottle of peppermint essential oil are overwhelmed by the strength of the oil. While it can be overpowering, peppermint is one of the most versatile of the essential oils available. It too, can be used for a multitude of purposes in every day life and can be applied aromatically, topically and internally. Cleaning and deodorizing Sinus, headache and nasal stuffiness Detoxification Fungus, bacteria and mold cleaning Digestion, gas and constipation concerns Attention and focus  support Teeth and oral health support The mint family is expansive but again it starts with understanding the commonly used peppermint essential oil to recognize and appreciate all that this oil can do to enhance and improve your health. Most essential oil blends will contain one or more the plants within the families of these 3 base oils. The use of these 3 oils as your first essential oils helps you develop a solid foundation for exploring and trying other essential oils and essential oil blends. NOTE: When using any essential oil aromatically, topically or internally it is important to understand the potency of the oil. If you are new to essential oils or just experimenting with a new oil, using a carrier liquid or oil and dilution is highly recommended until you understand how the oil it works for you. Carrier oils can be your lotion, moisturizer or simply common household coconut oil.  Children should always have oils diluted prior to use and application. Interested in more? doTERRA has a collection of these 3 essential oils in 5ml sized bottles. This small collection is perfect for introducing yourself or someone you know to essential oils and providing an entry point to understanding how powerful they can be in your life. All of doTERRA’s oils are 100% pure. What the label says is in the bottle is what is there with no added fillers, synthetics or chemicals. If you’re going to invest in essential oils then ensure what you are purchasing is pure so you can truly experience the benefits of the oil. Reach out to me via this blog or my website to learn how to get a trio collection along with support and information to start your essential oil journey. my.doterra.com/dragonspitapothecary The trio collection can be purchased for $20 + $3.99 shipping as a wholesale customer.  You do not have to sell oils to enjoy this collection. Contact me for more information. dragonspitapothecary@aol.com #health #alternativehealth #wellness #EssentialOils #beauty #home #family #lifestyle

I admit it, I really, really like the smell of patchouli. Not the incense stick, hazy, smoky smell associated with paisley prints and tie-dye but rather the authentic patchouli plant. Yes, for those of you who didn’t know, the 1960’s time period did not invent patchouli. It is actually a plant. That grows in nature.Shocking, I know. Patchouli is a tropical plant that grows naturally in China, Indonesia, Cambodia, India and South America among other places. In the warmer, more tropical zones of the US you can even plant and grow this lovely plant in your own backyard. It is a member of the mint family. The plant averages 2-3 feet in height and it’s flowers bloom in fall. Cuttings can be easily taken and used to sprout or you can use the flower seeds to start new plants. The plant’s flowers actually look similar to lavender and salvia with long purple covered spikes. For centuries, patchouli has been used medicinally and in daily life for a multitude of purposes: Digestion relief Insect repellent Healing chapped lips Skin issues Fabric preservation Patchouli first became popular in Europe in the 1800’s with the import of fabrics from India. The fabrics were often sprayed with patchouli to prevent moth, lice and insect infestation damage during ship transportation.  The smell was considered exotic and often raised the price of imported materials. The plant’s essential oil, derived from its leaves, continues to provide several important applications to support natural living today including: Inflammation treatment Headache relief Antiseptic for eliminating bacteria and fungus from cuts and burns Help preventing scars Acne and rash treatment Immunity boost for flu prevention Dandruff control Depression and anxiety support Insect repellent I use doTERRA’s Patchouli essential oil pretty regularly.  Like all of doTERRA’s oils, Patchouli is 100% pure, containing no fillers, synthetics or chemicals. It is grown, harvested and processed in India. Practical Uses Dandruff control Apply 2-3 drops to dry hair after styling Mix 4-6 drops in your conditioner and apply as normal Hair detangler – Mix in a 4oz spray bottle 7-12 drops patchouli with witch hazel and water (equal parts) and spray on hair before drying.  I also add in a couple drops of Rosemary. This is my version of the Aveda Brilliant spray I was paying over $28 a bottle on! Apply 1 drop Patchouli with 1 drop of Peppermint to the forehead and temples for headache relief Diffuse it during the day or evening for relaxation and stress management Diffuse it on your patio to keep bugs at bay You can also make a bug spray to apply to your skin while outdoors Use it in your garden to manage slugs, beetles and other pests For large areas I’d recommend growing a couple of the plants if you live in a zone that will support it You can also grow the plant indoors Apply with your daily moisturizer or body lotion to treat breakouts and hives Apply to areas of your body that are inflamed due to sprains, sore muscles, etc. The authentic smell is complex. It is spicy and warm but also floral. How have you used this oil? Interested in more? I use doTERRA essential oils because of their purity. What the label says is in the bottle is all that it is in the bottle. There are never any chemicals, synthetics or fillers. If you’re going to invest in essential oils and use them as part of your daily life,  then make sure you are using actually real 100% pure essential oils. If you have questions about essential oils please contact me via this blog or dragonspitapothecary@aol.com Get your oils at my website my.doterra.com/dragonspitapothecary.com #health #alternativehealth #wellness #EssentialOils #beauty #home #family #lifestyle

This oil blend has quickly become one of my favorites to use in my skincare routine. With the problems I’ve had fighting acne the majority of my adult life, it’s been very important to seek products that do not complicate and add-to this issue. I’m so proud to be able to say my acne is finally under control and I can worry about other things for my face other than a continual stream of breakouts! See prior post about the wars my face has waged on me with acne. https://wordpress.com/post/dragonspitapothecary.wordpress.com/192 doTERRA’s Immortelle blend oil contains many helpful ingredients to support my quest to improve my skin tone and work on wrinkle management. Each of these oils is a unique skincare powerhouse on their own to treat and care for skin but together they are an incredible force of nature delivering benefits that are significant and undeniable. Frankincense This is the best oil ever to apply to your face. Simply using a couple drops of this oil in your regular moisturizer and applying from forehead to chest is so beneficial in improving the majority of skin concerns. Frankincense is known for it’s anti-aging support and improvement in skin tone, scars, dark spots and more. It’s soothing and beautifying properties are used to rejuvenate skin and help reduce the appearance of imperfections when applied topically. Sandalwood Sandalwood is very soothing and beneficial to the skin, making it highly sought after in quality body and skin care products. Sandalwood can reduce the appearance of skin imperfections while providing an overall youthful-looking complexion. Lavender This flower is perfect for soothing agitated skin and provides a healing power that cannot be beat. It supports skin refinement and toning. Myrrh This ancient oil provides soothing and enhancement to skin tone while it helps to smooth and moisturize. Helichrysum Helichrysum has been used for skin rejuvenation since the time of the ancient Greeks. It was one of the primary oils Cleopatra is said to have used daily in her routine. Rose Rose is a moisturizing oil that helps skin retain natural balance. It compliments the other oils by providing the moisture to allow them the maximum ability to work. Each of these oils have been around for centuries and two were considered so valuable they given as gifts to the baby Jesus. doTERRA’s Immortelle oil blend combines all of these oils into one clever roller ball bottle that is easy to use and quick to apply.  One bottle used daily has lasted me almost a year!  You are literally applying 1-2 drops of the oil every day so it is used sparingly extending the life of the bottle. Even if you do not use any other essential oil in your life, this is one that I would highly recommend.  Economically it is so much less than the majority of anti-aging products on the market and contains no chemicals or synthetics. It is a treat to open the bottle and just smell it and oh yeah, it actually works. Interested in more? If you have questions about essential oils please feel free to contact us via our blog or email dragonspitapothecary@aol.com Want to try it for yourself? Purchase Immortelle at our website: my.doterra.com/dragonspitapothecary If you would prefer not to pay retail prices for Immortelle or any other essential oil, please let me know. You do not have to sell oils to receive the value of wholesale pricing, special sales and the incredible loyalty reward program provided through doTERRA. Contact me at my.doterra.com/dragonspitapothecaryfor information. #health #alternativehealth #wellness #EssentialOils #beauty #skincare

A few years ago I started having these horrible episodes of vertigo hit me out of no where. It was like being super intoxicated and stuck to the walls of a washing machine going on the spin cycle. I would hit walls, stumble and vomit from the inability to make it stop. When it would eventually stop my head would hurt for days. I went to my doctor and a specialist who both initially thought it was ear infections and gave me a variety of pills and ear drops. Nothing seemed to give me relief and the vertigo kept coming. I will never forget this one ear drop I was prescribed would hurt so badly when my husband would put it in my ear I would cry and scream from the pain. Vertigo was better than having those drops put in my ear. It was awful. An Ear, Nose and Throat specialist diagnosed me with Meniere’s Disease. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/menieres-disease/symptoms-causes/syc-20374910 He said my diagnosis was the cause of having very small ear canals that easily become infected when I get a sinus infection and trigger the Meniere’s Disease symptoms, including vertigo, since my ears do not drain as quickly as they normally should. It also didn’t help that I never had my tonsils removed as a child and suffered throughout childhood with colds, sore throats and ear infections that were often untreated. All of this has equated to some nerve damage in my sinus cavities and ears that I am now paying for as an adult. Unfortunately after a certain age you cannot have your tonsils removed which alone would help significantly in my situation. My options at this point are management and avoidance of the triggers so I can prevent it as much as possible. Symptom Management Since vertigo is debilitating and painful I have become adept at managing it and can begin to recognize when vertigo is going to hit me. For me, my heart starts to race a little, I feel really hot, like feverish, all of a sudden, my head starts to beat and then very quickly after these sensations I’m spinning like the ground has gone out from under me. Try having that happen when you’re grocery shopping or driving in your car. It’s not a bunch of fun on top of being at least slightly dangerous. Smells and odors, especially certain perfumes, soaps, cleaners, foods and etc. can trigger vertigo for me. I have a very hard time going by stores and aisles in a store that sell things with strong odors. Those plug-ins you can use in your home, air fresheners, sprays and the like with strong overpowering smells send me right over the edge with spinning so I try to avoid them as much as possible. As part of my routine for managing the symptoms I take a daily dosage of Lipo-Flavinoid Plus.  I take at least 1 of these supplements per day year round. When I start to feel a sinus infection, ear infection or anything similar I double up the dosage. Lipo-flavinoid is a vitamin that improves circulation in the ears and helps remove deposits that can cause the symptoms of vertigo and ear infections. I have found this extremely helpful in managing my symptoms. You can buy it direct from the manufacturer (they often have a coupon available) or through Amazon. https://lipoflavonoid.com/ I now also supplement the lipo-flavinoid with essential oils. Doing so, has really helped minimize the symptoms when I start to feel them coming and reduce the severity. I only use doTERRA essential oils. My personal opinion is these oils are superior in quality and I have had great success managing my symptoms with them. Peppermint For immediate sinus pain I apply peppermint to my forehead, sinus area and behind my ears. If I feel stuffy I will also put a drop in my palms and and take a deep breathe of it. Balance When I feel slightly spin cycle like I apply doTERRA’s Balance behind my ears and on my temples. This gives me immediate relief and helps reduce the severity I feel. It is soothing when I use this with the peppermint. I will often take a drop of Peppermint with Balance in my palms and inhale them together. Balance is a blend oil containing: Spruce Leaf Ho Wood Leaf Frankincense Resin Blue Tansy Flower Blue Chamomile Flower Osmanthus Flower Fractionated Coconut Oil. On Guard I apply this regularly to the bottom of my feet before bed, diffuse it when I feel sniffles and clean with it around the house. This oil is for immunity boosting and germ management.  I believe it has helped me greatly during winter months as a preventative application. On Guard is also a blend oil consisting of: Wild Orange Peel Clove Bud Cinnamon Leaf Cinnamon Bark Eucalyptus Leaf Rosemary Leaf/Flower Tangerine This citrus oil boosts vitamin C that is so critical in managing the symptoms of Meinere’s.  I will use this in my diffuser, apply to my neck and this particular oil is fantastic in hot tea. The other citrus oils would work fine too for the vitamin C aspect but I really love the Tangerine one and it’s works the best for me. Ginger When I’m feeling run down and at risk for a spin cycle I apply ginger to my nose and stomach. The smell is soothing and helps calm my system to avoid vomiting. If you suffer from Meinere’s Disease, vertigo or similar, how are you managing the symptoms naturally? Interested in more? If you have questions about essential oils please contact me via this blog or dragonspitapothecary@aol.com You can purchase oils from me at my.doterra.com/dragonspitapothecary.com If you don’t want to pay retail prices for your oils, please contact me about wholesale options. You do not have to sell oils to have access to wholesale prices, specials and sales. (Unless you want to!)  my.doterra.com/dragonspitapothecary.com #health #alternativehealth #wellness #EssentialOils #home #family #lifestyle

For some reason the word sassafras has always cracked me up. I realize it is a tree but in the context of how this word gets used it is rarely referring to its leafy lineage. Seriously, when was the last time you heard someone cooking with sassafras or sipping on sassafras tea? My grandfather used to make sassafras iced tea when I was a child but I think he was only person I ever knew that drank it. He wouldn’t sweeten it much at all so it was much equivalent to drinking medicine when you’re a child.  There were a couple sassafras trees on his farm and we’d go help him pick some leaves or a little of the bark for his tea that he’d put in a jug out in the sun to brew. Once his farming work was done, he’d come up to the house, get a large glass of ice, pour some of this tea and sit under the willow trees enjoying the rest of the day. It’s commonplace to say someone is “just full of sass and sassafras” meaning they are sassy, mouthy and very possibly a smart-ass.   It is most often applied to females though I have heard a general comment or two when referring to males as well. When someone is confident they are looking their best and seen strutting their stuff without a care in this world, they are also referred to as “full of sassafras.” Again, I don’t understand how a herbal smelling tree has become associated with being smart-mouthed, overly sure of yourself and looking good but it’s probably got an interesting story of how it originated. These days I get my “full of sassafras” on by dropping a couple drops of doTERRA’s Slim & Sassy in my water. While Slim & Sassy does not actually contain sassafras it does have a herbal like smell and taste.  The oil blend actually contains: Grapefruit Lemon Peppermint Ginger Root Cinnamon Bark Together these oils create a healthy metabolism boost to help you stay focused and energized. It is a great oil to add to you health and weight goals as it helps with managing the sweet tooth, boosts your energy, helps with focus . Even if you’re not watching your weight it is a great oil for daily use in reducing toxins and water retention. I drink Slim & Sassy at least once a day in my water.  It helps me stay away from soda and be more mindful of what I eat most days.  I admit I have not tried diffusing it or applying it but have heard others do so with pleasing results. I keep the gum in my purse and use it regularly when on the go. The soft gels I will take when I’m feeling I need a boost or am having a hard time sticking to eating healthier foods on a particular day. I enjoy the protein mixes as a smoothie, protein shake or stirred in yogurt. They make a nice treat instead of going for the ice cream or something equally not so healthy. Interested in more? If you have questions please contact me via this blog or email at dragonspitapothecary@aol.com If you would like to get your “She’s so full of sassafras on” order it via my website my.doterra.com/dragonspitapothecary If you’d rather not pay retail prices for your Slim & Sassy contact me! As a Wholesale Customer or Wellness Advocate you receive 25% off retail prices, earn points from your purchase and shipping (makes shipping FREE) and can enjoy monthly product specials! doTERRA also has the best educational support available!  Contact me at my.doterra.com/dragonspitapothecary for more information. #weightmanagement #health #alternativehealth #wellness #weightloss #home #family #lifestyle

Like most homes, our washing machine runs at least every other day and sometimes every day, multiple times a day.  In fact, I know of several times it has run all day long. There are some loads of laundry that you have to wonder if it’s even going to come clean and be wearable again. Or my personal favorite, the load where you forget to immediately flip it to the dryer and things get “the smell.” Now with the High Efficiency (He) washing machines there is also this periodic need to clean the machine.  Our machine always seems to get the gunk around the soap and softener compartments in addition to just needing a good freshening up. Like we don’t have enough to clean already! Smelly Laundry and Towels There is a very distinct smell that can happen to towels particularly but really any load of heavier clothes. Perhaps you forgot that load in the washer or they didn’t get dry enough before the smell settled in. I have found adding 10 drops of Purify to the wash and another 5 drops to dryer balls eliminates these smells. Since the sound of the dryer balls hitting the dryer walls sometimes drives me crazy I often just add it to the wash and dry as normal.  Even towels that have seen better days come out with a fresher smell. Purify is an essential oil blend from doTERRA that eliminates odors and purifies.  It smells like what I think clean should smell like. This oil blend consists of: Lemon Siberian Fir Citronella Lime Melaleuca Cilantro I agree with the aromatic description being fresh, outdoorsy even and herbal without stinging your nose. Gunky Compartments The He machines particularly always tell you less is more with the soap and softener. I don’t always believe that based on how my clothes come out. Quite honestly I sometimes wonder if water even hit them. I also have to wonder how clean things get when the compartments get gunky. The culprit of the gunk around the soap and softener compartments is of course soap and softener. The build up over time is really gross to have to clean out but if you don’t do it then the dispenser doesn’t release like it should. For all of my adult life I have been a Tide Liquid Detergent and Downy April Fresh Softener person. There were no others as far as I was concerned and you could count on Tide to get your clothes clean. Recently, I got a bottle of the doTERRA On Guard Laundry Detergent. I was skeptical because how can anything assure clean like Tide? I tried it because I am truly trying to redo our home with products that are less harmful to us and the environment. As much as I love Tide, I admit it’s probably not the best thing in the world for water. Based on the compartment gunk in my washer I have to also wonder of it’s wear and tear on my washer. I have been pleased with the results.  The laundry smells clean, my machine isn’t gunky and this little bottle actually lasts at least 64 loads. For the cost, I’m actually spending less with this than I was with the Tide and I won’t have to clean out the machine as frequently. Interested in more? If you have questions please let me know.  You can reach out to me via this blog of email at dragonspitapothecary@aol.com You can purchase these products  via my website my.doterra.com/dragonspitapothecary If you’re interested but don’t want to pay retail prices, enroll as a Wholesale Customer or Wellness Advocate with me. By doing so, you will enjoy 25% off retail prices, earn points on your purchases and shipping (makes shipping free) AND enjoy opportunities to have a free product of the month, further discounts on sale items and special offers AND have access to the best educational information available on essential oils and natural living. Contact me via my.doterra.com/dragonspitapothecary for more information. #health #alternativehealth #wellness #essentialoil #home #natural #family #lifestyle