Tuesday, May 31, 2011

FAQ We All Have Them

Some of the questions I had and found answers to are:


1. What is an essential oil?
Essential oils are natural aromatic compounds found in the seeds, bark, stems, roots, flowers, and other parts of plants. Essential oils contain the true essence of the plant it was derived from. Essential oils are highly concentrated and a little goes a long way.


2. How often can I apply oils?
There is really no set rule for how often to apply the oils. You have to make a mental shift from how we view using western medicine. For many of the things you will use the oils for, a couple of times a day is probably adequate to see results. However, other problems may require more frequent application.

3. How do I know where to apply the oils?
The sole of the foot is a good place to start. Applying oils to the feet helps absorb into the system better than almost anywhere else. However, often it is better to apply to the area that is affected. For example, if you have digestion problems, apply the oils to the stomach, for a headache, apply the oils on the temple and hairline, for minor scrapes and cuts apply the right oil directly to the injured area. Keep oils away from eyes and ear canals.

4. Is it safe to take over the counter medicines with the oils?
You may find that the oils are actually more effective than many of the OTC medicines, and may not need to use your OTC medicines. 

5. Can I overdose on the oils? How do I know if I'm using too much or too often?
Moderation in all things is a true principle. While the vast majority of essential oils can be used freely, there are a few that contain compounds that could be toxic at higher dosages (Wintergreen, Idaho Tansy, Hyssop would be examples).

6. When applying multiple oils, do I need to wait between applying each oil, or can I apply one immediately after the other one?
You do not need to wait between application of the different oils, they can be applied immediately on top of each other. I think by the time the first oil is rubbed into the skin your ready for the next one.

7. Are the oils safe to use on my children? Are they safe to use if I am pregnant?
When using essential oils on babies and children, it is always best to dilute 1-2 drops of pure essential oils with 1/2-1 tsp. vegetable oil.  More about using while pregnant click here.

8. What is the shelf life of an essential oil and how should it be stored?
The shelf life of an essential oil is approximately one year. After this time they lose some of their potency. How quickly this occurs depends on the specific oil and how it is stored. They should be kept in dark bottles (to protect them from ultra violet light), away from heat, preferably in a cool dark space. Some essential oils' scents will change regardless of how they are stored. The scents do not go bad or turn rancid they simply lose their subtlety. Although some choose to refrigerate their oils, this is not necessary (except rose) and can be disadvantageous because some essential oils are solid at low temperatures. I've also notice expiration dates on some of my oils. :)

9. Are essential oils oily?
Essential oils are not oily although some of the thicker oils appear so. The oils absorb quickly in the skin when applied topically.

10. How long do essential oils last in the body?
Essential oils will last 12 - 24 hours in the body depending on several factors: viscosity, concentration, application method (massage or diffuser), skin type and to which body part the oils were applied. After entering the blood stream, essential oils are circulated to the tissues and organs. They will eventually pass into the lymphatic system and will then be eliminated through sweat and normal bodily functions. Combined with massage, the effect of essential oils can last for days.

http://www.doterra.myvoffice.com/jeanette/index.html


 




Sunday, May 29, 2011

My Essential Oil Story

I was introduced a couple weeks ago to a product I hadn't heard of, doTERRA Essential Oils. A friend of mine saw a story I posted on a forum I frequent often and wanted to help me heal in the fastest, safest way possible. She has been using the Essential Oils and they have helped her tremendously in so many ways I can't begin to share them with you now. Any way some of you may know about my recent accident and some of you may not. 3 weeks ago we took the kids hiking and I slipped and fell hurting myself again. Yes, just a hike. lol! I really haven't had the luck lately but I'm dealing with recovering once again. My fall resulted in dislocating my right ring finger, and an added 1/2 inch laceration where my knuckle bone popped through the skin. Yes it hurt and the shock factor was even worse. We still had 2 miles to hike to the car. I learned a few things about myself that day. (good ones ) I will attach pictures. Day 1 thru now (3 weeks).









Well I was willing to try anything to get the healing started. The hand surgeon I saw referred me to a physical therapist twice a week. My co-pay's are $50 for each visit. I thought holy crap I can't do that, but had to considering it was doctor recommended. My friend emailed me all the essential oil information and I purchased my first oils and quickly began using them. I've also been to therapy 3 times now. My therapist said it could be anywhere from 6 to 9 weeks for the finger to get full use again. I am determined to make that sooner in the safest way. My 3rd PT visit my therapist was amazed at how quick I was healing. His exact words were "wow!" "You must be a quick healer." He said I was way ahead of schedule and wished he healed that quick. Do I think it's the oils? Well, my answer is yes. Of coarse it's me using them properly and consistently and doing hand/finger exercises, but I really do think the oils are helping the process speed up a bit. I'm really focusing on my finger getting back to normal because I want to be able to play and do the things I enjoy as fast as possible.

I first started using pure organic coconut oil and then the Deep Blue blend. It has wintergreen,camphor, peppermint, blue tansy, German chamomile, helichrysum and osmanthus. The work together to ease achy joints and reduce inflammation (which the finger has a lot of). I also apply Lemongrass for ligament and tendon damage. It's also good for the aches and pains. Then for the laceration I apply Melaleuca (tea tree oil) first aid for the skin.

When I started therapy my finger was 100% fused. It did not bend. It was actually hiper-extended and beginning to dis-form. Not good! Today I'm close to making a fist and feel I'm 70% there. That is fast! My cut that was NEVER stitched is completely closed up and looking great. I do owe my friend Romi the thanks for introducing me to the oils. I will continue using them in more ways than one. I have a list of ailments
I will be using them for now and in the future for me and my family. I'm hoping my trips to the doctor will be less and my family will be a healthier one in the future. BTW our kids love the oils. A drop of lavendar on their pillow has them sleeping like a baby in no time. They love the wild orange for it's yummie smell. It's excellent for energizing and revitalizing. A real mood lifter! Oh and a drop or two of lemon oil in their water get's them to drink more water. 

I will admit I'm still learning about all the benefits of essential oils and I'm very excited about them. They really do work and the articles and real life stories are very motivational and uplifting to me.

FYI:
It has been estimated that at least 80% of the population has or currently are using some form of alternative medicine.  Bacteria has outsmarted even our strongest antibiotics leading to the rise in the dreaded superbug. Many of our over the counter medicines have been removed and studies are linking many synthetic drugs to serious health problems. Leading us to seek after alternative medicine.


Updated picture... Of the laceration....



















5 weeks later and the strength is coming back and we are going to ride the dirt bikes this weekend. Wish me luck!!!!!


click here to join doTERRA

Okay.. Why the name???


Okay so why the name GP Genie Potions? Well it started off as my nickname from childhood. My mom called me Genie in short for Jeanette. Yeah, I'm not 100% sure on the connection there but do nicknames rarely make any sense? Then a few years back I joined a snowmobiling forum for female sledders (The Ladies Ride) and the name GirlPowder came about. Now I'm on a couple forums as Girlpowder and Girlpower. Everyone shortened the name to "GP".  So I'm referred to as "GP" on a snowmobile forums and dirt biking forums.  Throttlechix     Snowest 


 Then starting the oil thing recently and I wanted a unique name for my blog.  After thinking it over it clicked. (Romi and Ron's help of coarse) Genie in a bottle? GP in a bottle? Magical potions in a bottle? GP Genie Potions...woo hoo that's it!!! lol, there's my name and I hope to make a business with it soon and help my family out in more ways than one by selling GP Genie Potions in a bottle. Thanks doTERRA!

10 Basic Oils Every Family Needs


 

The Family Physician Kit is a collection of ten nurturing essential oils, including six single oils and four blends. The box includes tips for using the oils, as well as an audio CD featuring dōTERRA's Chief Medical Officer, Dr. David K. Hill. In this audio presentation, Dr. Hill teaches listeners how to care for their family's everyday health needs with simple and safe methods using the ten essential oils included in this kit. Includes 5 ml bottles of Lavender, Lemon, Peppermint, Melaleuca, Oregano, Frankincense, Deep Blue, Breathe, DigestZen, and On Guard to help families address a multitude of health issues.

*Lavender Essential Oil
Lavandula angustifolia


Our most popular oil, lavender has been cherished for its unmistakable aroma and its therapeutic properties for thousands of years. Lavender is widely used and accepted for its calming and relaxing qualities. For topical, aromatic, or dietary use.

*Lemon Essential Oil
Citrus limon

Another favorite, this essential oil powerhouse is cold-pressed from lemon rinds to preserve its delicate nature and potent properties. Lemon is known as a powerful aromatic, topical, and internal cleanser that can be used to complement many other oils. Diffusing lemon in a room can cleanse the air and uplift mood. It can also be used on surfaces throughout the home as a non-toxic cleaning booster. For aromatic, topical or dietary use.

*Peppermint Essential Oil
Mentha piperita


Peppermint is popular in countless forms, from toothpaste to chewing gum. As an essential oil, it is useful to ease breathing and as a digestive aid*. For aromatic, topical, or dietary use.

*Melaleuca Essential Oil
Melaleuca alternifolia


Recognized by its more common name "tea tree", melaleuca has been revered for its cleansing and regenerative properties, especially for the skin. Composed of more than ninety different compounds, melaleuca has limitless therapeutic applications. For aromatic, internal or topical use.

*Oregano Essential Oil
Origanum vulgare

Hippocrates, the father of medicine, used oregano as a cleansing agent as well as for digestive and respiratory support. High in antioxidant activity, oregano contains phenolic acids and flavonoids. For aromatic, topical, or dietary use (dilute when using topically).

*Frankincense Essential Oil
Boswellia frereana

Perhaps the most precious of the ancient oils, frankincense is highly sought after by modern consumers for its many uses, including relaxation, immune support, and mood enhancement. For aromatic, topical or dietary use.

*Deep Blue
Soothing Blend

According to recent studies, more than half of us are sufferers of ongoing discomfort. Deep Blue is dōTERRA's soothing solution to this challenge. Wintergreen, camphor, peppermint, blue tansy, blue chamomile, helichrysum and osmanthus work together to ease achy joints and sore muscles. Its effects are deep and penetrating with sustained results. Once gently rubbed into the area of discomfort, Deep Blue's cool therapeutic benefit will be felt almost immediately. For topical use only.

*Breathe
Respiratory Blend


Respiratory issues are prevalent in modern society, and dōTERRA essential oils are a perfect way to ease breathing consistently for a sustained benefit. Breathe is a remarkable blend of CPTG essential oils which combine to do just that, help you breathe easier. A proprietary blend including laurel leaf, peppermint, eucalyptus, tea tree, lemon and ravensara cleanses and soothes the airways, and can easily be applied topically to the chest, back, or bottom of feet. Its pleasant aroma is calming to the senses and perfect for night time diffusion allowing for restful sleep. For aromatic or topical use.

*DigestZen
Digestive Blend


Many essential oils have been recognized through research as powerful agents to help restore normal balance in the digestive system. DigestZen takes advantage of these well-established therapeutic compounds in a proprietary blend of pure essential oils. Ginger, peppermint, tarragon, fennel, caraway, coriander and anise each have specific attributes which add to the overall efficacy of this potent blend. When used internally, dōTERRA's DigestZen brings soothing digestive relief. For aromatic, topical, or dietary use.

*On Guard
Protective Blend


On Guard is dōTERRA's unique, proprietary blend formulated to support healthy immune function. Wild orange essential oil, combined with clove, cinnamon, eucalyptus and rosemary offer a fragrant, natural and effective alternative to synthetic options for immune support. On Guard, with its unique aroma, is one of our most versatile blends. It is also safe to use on counter tops, as a non-toxic way to cleanse surfaces, or to purify the atmosphere by diffusing. On Guard is superb for eliminating and controlling pathogens due to the potency of its constituents. For aromatic, topical, or dietary use.


This is the kit I bought when I joined doTERRA a very short time ago. I've yet to use the whole kit (almost though). It will replace my medicine cabinet in no time. I've used the Lavender for a good nights rest on my pillow and our kids. They love it's fragrant and calming effects. The lemon has other uses but so far all I've used it for is simply flavoring my water. It has a great taste and it only takes a drop or two. I recently came down with a cold and the peppermint is wonderful for a quick sinus relief. Love it! I also used it for a headache by applying one drop and rubbing my temples. (stay away from your eye's remember) It really worked and it was a definite mood lifter. The Deep Blue has been a life saver for the healing of my finger and has provided relief from my husband and myself aching backs. Very soothing! I've used the oregano on my feet and the kids for natural defense with the bug we have going through our home and the On Guard as well. The Melaleuca has been used for minor skin irritations in our family and the healing of my finger laceration. And last but not least I pulled out the Digestzen this Memorial Weekend. Our son came down with a stomach ache and threw up. I've been applying the oil to his abdomen and feet every 15 to 30 minutes and he's starting to eat and drink and liven up again. Note it's only been 12 hours since the tummy ache set in. So I guess I've used all but one of the 10 listed above. Funny... It doesn't take long to find a need for one of them and the biggest relief I thought was the fact you can't overdose on an oil. There isn't a time frame in between use, just long enough for the oil to soak in the skin. And don't forget many of them you can take internally too. Simply buy empty gel caps and drop the amount of oil you need and swallow. Easy!!!!

IMO every home could use one of these kits.  Retail price is $166. If you sign up for a wholesale account the kit can be yours for $124.50. You do however need to pay an enrollment fee of $35 for the first year and $25 a year after that. It's like purchasing a yearly membership for a great discount.

To purchase a Family Physician Kit and set up your wholesale account simply click here doTERRA

FYI... by clicking the "Join as an Independent Consultant" does not require that sell doTERRA products, it's simply allowing you to purchase all doTERRA products at wholesale cost. -25% of retail. The auto-ship is not required unless you want to earn commissions.  :)

http://www.doterra.myvoffice.com/jeanette/ 

Take Control of Your Health, doTERRA




*doTERRA is a Latin meaning "Gift of the Earth"
*doTERRA essential oils are the only "certified pure therapeutic grade" available in the market (CPTG)
*doTERRA cross test each batch using gas chromatography and mass spectrometry to guarantee purity and potency
*doTERRA's plants are pressurized in order to distill the "life blood" of the plant
*doTERRA essential oils are 50 to 70 times stronger than herbs
*doTERRA's essential oils are antibacterial, antiviral, and anti-fungal
*doTERRA's oils are 100% natural

http://www.doterra.myvoffice.com/jeanette/ 

Saturday, May 28, 2011

A Brief History of Essential Oils

For my first post I thought I would share some history I found about essential oils. I thought the information was very interesting.


Essential oils are the oldest and some of the most powerful therapeutic agents know to man. Historically, they span centuries of use in healing, therapy, and religious ritual throughout the ancient world.
RomeAmong others, frankincense is repeatedly referred to in many Judeo-Christian and Muslim religious texts. Others, such as myrrh, lotus, and sandalwood oils were widely used in ancient Egyptian purification and embalming rituals. Clove and lemon oil were used as disinfectants hundreds of years before the discovery of modern antiseptics.  Romans used essential oils in their temples and political buildings as well as aromatic bathhouses that were gathering places for the upper class.
SphinxAncient Egyptians were among the first civilizations to recognize the therapeutic qualities of oils.  In the early 1800’s, papyrus, dating back to 1500 B.C., was found listing over 800 herbal prescriptions and remedies that included the use of many oils.  They had studied the chemical properties of essential oils, the development and refinement of the distillation process.  Ehen King Tut's tomb was opened in the 1900s it had many jars with essential oil residue.  This story sometimes gets exaggerated but does confirm these oils have been used for millennia. 
An interesting episode of essential oils was during the great epidemic of the Middle Ages known as the Bubonic Plague (1330 A.D.) that destroyed almost half of Western Europe’s population.  An enterprising band of thieves took advantage of the high mortality rate by robbing the dead without becoming infected by the disease. The thieves were eventually captured in Marseilles, France and put on trial.  The judge offered the thieves leniency if they would reveal how they managed to avoid the ‘Black Death.’ It turned out that the thieves were perfumers and spice traders.  By rubbing themselves with a blend of highly antibacterial aromatics, they had effectively immunized themselves.
Even starting before this period ancient alchemist began to explore the nature of matter.  Some were trying to prove (or disprove) Aristotle’s view that matter was made of fire, water, earth, and air.  In this process they furthered the techniques of chemical separation through extraction and distillation.  The earliest were the alchemist of Islamic cultures in the East and this knowledge then moved to their counterparts in Europe.  From the distillation of plants first came perfumes then cosmetics and pharmaceuticals. It was during this period that the aromatic essences of plants first came to be known as essential oils.  Unfortunately these early researchers, the alchemists, were not always rewarded positively for their contributions.  Hopefully we have learned a lesson and regard modern researchers of essential oils with higher esteem.
 The modern beginning of essential oils and aromatherapy began to blossom in the early decades of the twentieth century.  In July of 1910, the lab of French cosmetic chemist, René-Maurice Gattefossé, Ph.D. exploded, setting his hand and arm on fire.  In a panic, he plunged his arm in what he assumed was water.  However, it actually contained pure lavender oil. Pleasantly surprised at the analgesic effects and fearing further damage resulting from the accident, he continued with regular application of lavender oil.  The wound healed with very little scaring.  He then investigated the chemistry of the oil in order to discover what properties had caused this tremendous healing effect. Dr. Gattefossé continued his examinations of the healing compounds of other essential oils. His studies laid the groundwork for the clinical use of essential oils.
This work was followed by Jean Valnet, M.D. also in France. Valnet was a French army doctor who began using essential oils to treat wounded soldiers and heal gangrene during the Second World War.  His post-war books introduced aromatherapy to a wider audience and lead to several more respected publications. Two of Valnet’s students, Dr. Paul Belaiche and Dr. Jean Claude Lapraz expanded his work.  They analyzed the antiviral, antibacterial, anti-fungal, and antiseptic properties in essential oils. In 1979, Dr. Belaiche published a work that included results of extensive in-vitro research on the antimicrobial effects of essential oils and their subsequent clinical applications on a wide range of infectious and degenerative illnesses.  These advances lead to a selected level of acceptance by conventional medical doctors, other healthcare professionals, and even insurance companies in France and other countries.

http://www.doterra.myvoffice.com/jeanette/