Oil Essentials // Class

Welcome to my little class on essential oils! I wanted to do a little write-up because I know a lot of you are wondering what in the world they are (not to mention why and how to use them)! Some of you are probably even skeptical, and that is okay! Hopefully, I can answer most of your questions in this post. If you have any more, please don't hesitate to contact me!


So let's begin!
Applying essential oils to help our bodies is a relatively new idea in western culture, but these oils have in fact been used for thousands of years in cultures around the world. They were God's first medicine and are mentioned throughout the Bible. They are not new or a fad! Keep reading to find out more about these powerful little bottles.

Essential oils are not actually essential to your health the way that essential vitamins and minerals are. They are called "essential" because they are the pure essence of the plant from which they come. They are powerful fluids within the plant that are essential to the plant's well-being; they are basically a plant's immune system. In order retain the healthful, therapeutic properties of these oils, they are carefully extracted through steam distillation or occasionally cold pressing. Because the oils are very concentrated, they are far more powerful than the plants from which they were extracted.

Pure essential oils have the power to affect change in your body at a cellular level. A single drop of essential oil contains 40 million trillion molecules. What? (That's a 4 with nineteen zeros after it!) The human body is made up of about 100 trillion cells. So what does that mean? It means when you put one drop of essential oil on your skin, each cell in your body will soon have about 40,000 molecules of that oil all over it!

Even just inhaling from the bottle can have an amazing effect on the body, brain, and emotions. Your sense of smell is part of the limbic system, which is connected to the parts of the brain that control emotions, memory, hormones, stress levels, and more. When you breathe in essential oils, the tiny molecules enter directly into your limbic system, which sends signals to the brain, which then communicates with the body. Emotional wellness is such an important factor in overall health!

But not all essential oils are created equal...

Did you know that we actually use essential oils every day? They're in our food, candy, perfume, detergents, candles, and personal care products… pretty much anything that has a scent. Food- and/or perfume-grade oils are typically synthetic unless stated otherwise. These man-made substitutes can be harmful to your health, cause allergic reactions, and/or make conditions worse. So let's stick with the real stuff, mmkay? This reason is why I only recommend using therapeutic-grade essential oils; they are scientifically proven to work with our bodies to aid our health.

Just because something is "natural" doesn't always mean it's safe. However, essential oils are both if used correctly! Here are some basic rules for safety:
1. Only use therapeutic-grade oils. (Read the next section for why I only choose Young Living.)
2. Do your research, making sure to use reputable sources. Remember that lots of people post opinions online (positive and negative), and they can sometimes be helpful, but at the end of the day, they are just opinions and are not always reliable.
3. Dilute essential oils in a carrier oil (especially when applying to children). Some oils are considered hot and can cause a rash without proper dilution. A little goes a long way!
4. Use common sense. Only use as directed on the label and don't use the whole bottle at a time!
5. If you're uncomfortable using certain oils or using them a certain way (such as taking them internally), don’t.

Here are some relevant links:
Life Science Publishing (tons of oily research!)
PubMed.gov
Young Living Safety Guide
Essential Oils In the Nursery
12 Questions to Ask an Oil Company

I've got a whole page on the blog outlining the reasons I've chosen Young Living, so I'll just hit the highlights here. Distilling essential oils is a very temperamental process and Gary Young (founder of Young Living) has dedicated his life to understanding it, because when a plant is distilled correctly, it will contain every constituent of that plant and therefore the most benefit to our bodies.

I'm also a huge fan of the Seed to Seal promise, which ensures that Young Living's product is "beyond organic." This promise is made possible by the fact that Young Living owns their own farms around the world. They are not just a rebottler of oils that they've purchased elsewhere. These farms are open to the public and I know people who have visited them.

But most of all, I love Young Living's transparency. When I purchase a 15ml bottle of Lavender Essential Oil from Young Living, I know that I'm actually getting 15ml of 100% of the highest quality unadulterated oil distilled from the Lavandula angustifolia plant. It's not 5% of that mixed with 95% carrier oil or anything synthetic (man-made).

You can read more here!

Like supplements, essential oils are not regulated by the Food and Drug Administration because they technically fall under the canopy of cosmetics or aromatherapy. Essential oils and products made with them do not need to gain FDA approval before they are brought to the market and sold to consumers. Furthermore, essential oils are not patent-eligible because they are not genetically altered. (Yeah, it's kind of silly that this is part of what prevents approval, but there it is.)

The main reason that essential oils cannot be approved by the FDA is because they cannot be consistently and exactly duplicated, a requirement for all new drugs seeking approval. Because the chemical makeup of the plants from which they are distilled vary from year to year, depending on growing conditions, each batch of essential oil may be slightly different than the last.

In order for a drug (something that treats or prevents disease) to be approved, its effects on people also must be replicable and evaluated. However, essential oils are utilized by our bodies in a variety of ways and they may vary from application to application! Additionally, each essential oil has so many different uses, which raises the question of which "claim" to get approval for.

Instead of questioning why companies don't seek FDA approval, we really should be asking why they should! Given the rigorous testing processes, the unpredictability of essential oil makeup, and the "inconsistency" in how our bodies use the oils, it would not be beneficial to consumers for essential oil companies to even try. In fact, the most likely outcome would be for these products (that have been used safely for thousands of years by people all over the world) to suddenly become unavailable while awaiting approval and limited after approval. (Imagine having to have a prescription to use lavender!)

There are so many reasons for incorporating oils into your daily routine, but I don't want to overwhelm you! I'll just mention a few here.

• they can enhance overall wellness (immune boosting)
• they can promote the body's ability to do its normal thang
• they can provide support for a variety of health concerns
• they can refine healthy hair and skin
• they can inspire positive emotions
• they can help maintain energy and mental clarity
• they have calming properties
• they can be added to food and drinks for flavor
• diffuse them as safe alternatives to scented air fresheners
• purify your home with them as natural substitutes for chemical-filled cleaners
• they are free of chemicals, synthetic materials, and toxins
• they're just so dang fun!

Want to know more? I'd love to chat about all their benefits so leave a comment or give me a shout!

The easiest way to use essential oils is aromatically. They can be inhaled directly or diffused! Both are very effective, but I personally find many of the oils too strong for direct inhalation most of the time! I'm a big advocate of the diffuser and Young Living makes some of the best, longest-lasting ones on the market. I use my diffuser every day; it's so fun finding and creating new combinations!

Using a diffuser is simple: fill it with distilled water, add 5-10 drops of oil (depending on your room size), replace the lid, and push the little button. What comes out is a fine mist of water and tiny particles of essential oils. The oil freshens a room and gets into our bodies (and we've already discussed the health benefits oils have), so it's a total win-win.

Diffusing is a great alternative to scented candles and air fresheners. The chemicals that make those synthetic fragrances can be highly toxic. Those toxins build up over time and can make us sick and unhealthy. With essential oils, you don't have to worry about what you're inhaling and they promote the proper functioning of your body's systems, like boosting the immune or respiratory systems and creating an emotionally balancing atmosphere.

The next way to use essential oils is topically--applying directly to your skin. Because the skin is the largest organ in our bodies, this is a very effective way to absorb the goodness in these oils. Within minutes, that drop of oil enters the bloodstream and is carried throughout the body.

It's always best to dilute oils, especially for kids. Some oils are considered hot and can cause a rash without proper dilution. Diluting also makes the essential oils last longer! If you notice a rash or a burning sensation from topical use, just add more carrier oil.

My favorite way to use oils topically is to make roller bottles with olive or fractionated coconut oil and a few drops of essential oils. It's fun to make up our own blends (Happy Tummy, Happy Mama, Happy Kids, etc.) and the kids love to name the blends. We have a whole nightly routine with rollers; if I forget, the kids always remind me!

Lastly, you can take many oils internally! Seem weird? I thought so until Young Living came out with their Vitality line of oils. These oils are specifically labeled for internal consumption and are Generally Regarded as Safe (GRAS) by the FDA. They can be used as flavorings in food and drinks or added to gel capsules and swallowed like a pill.

The Vitality oils can aid in weight loss, support the digestive and immune systems, and contribute to healthy cognitive function. More pure and powerful than the extracts or dried herbs and spices, these oils can be an amazing addition to any dish! (Honestly, my morning routine doesn't feel complete without the detoxing and energizing power of a drop of lemon in my orange juice!)

I hoped you learned something about essential oils that you didn't know. If you couldn't tell, these oils have completely changed how I view health and wellness. They've changed our mornings, our homeschool days, and our evenings. They've even changed how we sleep! Essential oils are a daily thing for us and I carry a little case of rollers wherever I go.

If there was something I didn't cover, or if you have more questions, leave a comment or shoot me an email and I'll answer to the best of my ability. And if you're not already a member with Young Living, I'd love to have you on my team! It's super simple to sign up...

1. Sign up here!
2. Choose either Customer or Member (more info here) 
3. Make sure to indicate that you were referred by a member (me!) and that the number 1734595 in is both the "enroller" and "sponsor" fields.
4. Fill out your information and be sure to include your email. 
5. Choose your Premium Starter Kit if you chose Member // choose your oils if you chose Customer
6. If you chose Member, you can also sign up for Essential Rewards for reduced shipping and to start accumulating points towards free products!

I will definitely be posting more about the oils we love to use, so be sure to follow along! Subscribe to my RSS feed in the sidebar to get my posts delivered straight to your inbox so you never miss one.

These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA and are not intended to diagnose or treat any condition.

Homemade Peppermint Mocha

I love being able to use essential oils to flavor our food. I have so many recipes that I want to try... lemon green beans, rosemary potatoes, peppermint brownies! So far, I've really only experimented with drinks, like adding lemon to my water or morning OJ and putting Thieves in apple cider or juice. But a couple weeks ago, I made a peppermint mocha.

You guys. Stop what you're doing right now and go make this. (If you don't have Young Living's Peppermint Vitality oil, check the bottom of the post for how to get it!)

On to the recipe!
Homemade Peppermint Mocha 

• 12 oz coffee (or espresso)
• 2-3 tbsp hot cocoa mix of your choice
• 1/2 tbsp unsalted butter*
• 1/2 tbsp coconut oil*
• 1 drop of Peppermint Vitality

1. Brew coffee or espresso.
2. Add all ingredients to blender (I love my Ninja with the Single Serve cups/blade)
3. Pour into a mug (and check out the froth level)
4. Enjoy!

* I usually drink my coffee with unsalted butter in place of cream because it's so unbelievably frothy and I'm not big on milk or milk alternatives. But you can use whatever dairy (or dairy alternative) you like in place of the butter and coconut oil! 

What's your favorite way to use the Vitality oils?

Haven't taken the plunge into the oily life yet? I can help you take the first steps! Five Vitality oils (including Peppermint) come in the Premium Starter Kit, which is by far the best deal Young Living has to offer (11 oils, a diffuser, and extra goodies--over $300 in value--all for $160). Or, if you want to try Peppermint Vitality just by itself, that's not a problem. Let me know how I can assist you!

I will definitely be posting more about the oils we love to use, so be sure to follow along! Subscribe to my RSS feed in the sidebar to get my posts delivered straight to your inbox so you never miss one.

These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA and are not intended to diagnose or treat any condition.

Thieves Cleaner & 50 Ways to Use It

Who loves having a clean house? (You can't see me, but my hand is raised!)

Who loves all the toxic products found in most cleaners?! Uhhh... not so much!

Enter Thieves Household Cleaner. When I first got started with Young Living, a friend gave me a 3oz sample bottle of THC. It took me forever to mix some solution up, but once I did, oh my goodness. I first used it on my hardwood and tile floors. Friends, I couldn't believe the difference! With commercial cleaners, even shortly after mopping, the towels would come up dirty gray when wiping spills. With THC? Those towels came up clean!

THC is formulated with the power of the Thieves essential oil blend and Lemon essential oil. It cleans so, so well without dangerous or synthetic ingredients. It's an all-purpose cleaner that can be used on any surface in your home for dusting, spot cleaning, scrubbing, or any other cleaning need. And it's completely safe for kids and pets!

And before you tell me that you couldn't possibly afford this stuff, let me tell you that THC is also very cost effective! One 14.4oz bottle of cleaner concentrate (retailing at less than $30) makes about 29 x 16oz spray bottles. If you're a wholesale member, your cost for the concentrate goes down to $22. That's around 75¢ a bottle! 

But do you want to know my favorite feature? THC smells amazing. It's warm and inviting and it really makes cleaning a lot more doable, if you know what I mean. And when I tell you it's an all-purpose cleaner, I really mean all purpose. Here are 50 ways to use Thieves Household cleaner in your home!


50 Ways to Use THC
Always spot test in an inconspicuous area before applying this product to woods, plastics, fabrics, and granite. If staining or damage occurs, discontinue use on the material.

In the Kitchen

1. Counters--safe on marble, granite, Corian, and Formica
2. Stainless steel appliances
3. Stovetop
4. Oven (spray, soak, wipe)
5. Microwave
6. Inside fridge and freezer
7. Inside and outside cupboards
8. Inside drawers
9. Use as dishwasher soap (add 1 capful THC to bottom of dishwasher)
10. DIY liquid dish soap
11. Pots and pans (soak and wipe)
12. Trash cans
13. Degreasing

In the Bathroom

14. Toilets (outside and inside)
15. Sinks
16. Tubs
17. Showers
18. Jetted tubs (fill tub, add 1-2 capfuls THC, run jets for 5 minutes)
19. Grout (mix 2 capfuls THC with enough baking soda to make a paste; spread on grout, let soak, wipe)
20. Mirrors--no streaks! (mix 1 capful THC, 5 drops Lemon oil, 1 teaspoon white vinegar, and 3 cups water in a spray bottle)

Around the House

21. Windows--no streaks! (mix 1 capful THC, 5 drops Lemon oil, 1 teaspoon white vinegar, and 3 cups water in a spray bottle)
22. Blinds
23. Ceiling fans
24. Light fixtures
25. Walls
26. Vents
27. Doorknobs
28. Mantel
29. Area around fireplace
30. Outlets
31. Baseboards
32. Floors--safe on linoleum, tile, wood, and faux wood (spray and mop)
33. Spot clean carpet
34. Freshen carpet (spray and vacuum)
35. Furniture
36. Wood polish (mix 1 capful THC with 3/4 cup olive oil and 3 drops lemon oil)
37. Mattresses
38. Fabrics--curtains, tablecloths, etc (just make sure to spot test)

Outside

39. Car interior (dashboard, seats, and console)
40. Car exterior (add 1/3 cup THC to 4 gallons of water) 
41. Add to power washer
42. Tracks of sliding doors

Miscellaneous

43. Foaming hand soap (fill container 1/4 way with liquid Castille soap, add 1 capful THC and fill with water)
44. Hand purifying spray (add 1/2 capful THC to 2oz spray bottle and fill with water)
45. Produce and fruit (add 1 capful to sink of water, soak produce, and rinse well)
46. Baby items and toys
47. Exercise equipment
48. Laundry (add 1 capful THC to the laundry cycle)
49. Spot treatment for stains 
50. Washer (add 1 capful THC to the "clean" cycle, or even the regular cycle)

Whew, this cleaner, y'all! I can't say enough about it. Interested in getting it for yourself? Two bottles come in the Thieves Premium Starter Kit, which is by far one of the best deals Young Living has to offer. It comes with so many other awesome Thieves-infused products, too, and all for $160! Start your journey here!

If you aren't ready to take the plunge for the whole kit, but want to try the cleaner by itself, that's okay too. I can help you get all the products you want, so let me know how I can assist you!

Don't wanna miss a post? Just subscribe to the RSS feed in the sidebar to get my posts delivered straight to your inbox!

5 Must-Make Blends for Kids

There are five pretty essential blends that every kid needs, and I think any mama would agree. Today, I've put together some kid-friendly roller recipes for you to make. First I'll talk a little about each one, and then I'll share the recipe for y'all! All of the ingredient oils are gentle for kiddos, even the young ones!

Calming Blend • First up is a calming blend, which is something that every parent needs, whether you have crazy kids who won't slow down, or to help make the nap time or bed time routine smoother, or to promote good sleep for yourself or your little ones. Having a good night's sleep (and/or naps) is vital for kids and parents alike and this oil blend can help! They can relax tense muscles and calm active minds. Diffuse, add to a bath, apply to kids' feet, or put in a spray bottle to spray on pillows and sheets.

Protection Blend • A protective blend is essential for helping your kids fight off the bugs before they get sick. Young Living makes a great blend for this purpose called Thieves. It's one of my Fab Four and Must-Haves for Kids. But you can add a couple other oils with it into a roller to give Thieves a little extra boost for kiddos who attend daycare or school. Apply daily to their feet for immune support and diffuse to clean the air and protect against environmental threats.

Respiratory Blend • Let's face it, the protective blend isn't going to guard against everything, and your kids are probably going to get the sniffles or the stuffies. A respiratory blend is a must for banishing that cough or cold they bring home! Whether you're diffusing or making a homemade vapor rub, the oils in this type of blend will give their little respiratory system the support it needs for clear airways and easy breathing!

Boo-Boo Blend • For when mama's kisses just won't work... the oils in a boo-boo blend are all fabulous for the skin and they also can promote the body's ability to heal. They soothe irritation, may help with the pain, and can cleanse minor wounds to prevent infection. You can swipe the roller directly on the boo-boo, or you can apply to the bandaid if it's a "no touchie" boo-boo. This blend may just end up being your best friend. 

Grounding Blend • Whether you have toddlers who need help steadying their emotions or older kiddos who need help focusing on tasks or homework or at school, this blend is a must. These oils promote relaxation and balance, helping ease stress and anxiety, but they are also great for mental clarity and motivation. Moms and kids alike can benefit from adding a little grounding to their morning routines.

On to the recipes!
These recipes can be mixed in a 10ml roller bottle with a carrier oil or diffused in a diffuser. They are suitably diluted for ages 4+. For kids aged 6 months to 3 years, consider halving the number of drops of each oil. When diffusing, you might need 3-5 drops of each oil, depending on the amount of water you use and the size of the room.

"NIGHT NIGHT" (Calming Blend)

• 4 drops Lavender
• 4 drops Cedarwood
• 2 drops Cypress

Mix in a 10ml roller bottle and fill the rest of the way with carrier oil. Rub on bottoms of feet, concentrating on the big toe, or the back of the neck. Great for calming active kids or aiding the bedtime routine. Try adding to a nightly bath or mixing in a spray bottle with witch hazel and water to spritz bed linens. Can also be rolled over the bladder to help with bedwetting.

PROTECTION Blend

• 4 drops Thieves
• 4 drops Lemon
• 2 drops Frankincense

Mix in a 10ml roller bottle and fill the rest of the way with carrier oil. Rub on bottoms of feet each morning or evening for immune support, concentrating on the big toe.


"BREATHE" (Respiratory Blend)

• 4 drops Cypress
• 4 drops Tea Tree
• 4 drops Spearmint*

Mix in a 10ml roller bottle and fill the rest of the way with carrier oil to rub on bottoms of feet, concentrating on the big toe. To make a vapor rub, mix oils in 2 teaspoons of coconut oil and apply on the chest and/or spine.

* I've used Spearmint in place of Peppermint because it's generally regarded as safer for young children. Peppermint has a slight risk of slowing down breathing in kids under 6, so I try not to use it topically for my younger ones.

BOO-BOO Blend

• 4 drops Lavender
• 4 drops Tea Tree
• 2 drops Frankincense

Mix in a 10ml roller bottle and fill the rest of the way with carrier oil. Apply to minor cuts, scrapes, or burns (or to the band-aid before covering) to cleanse, offer a little pain relief, and promote healing.

"FOCUS" (Grounding Blend)

• 4 drops Orange*
• 4 drops Cedarwood
• 4 drops Spearmint

Drop in a 10ml roller bottle and fill the rest of the way with carrier oil. Rub on wrists, the back of the neck, or bottoms of the feet (concentrating on the big toe) each morning for emotional balance and focus.

* Orange (or any citrus) should not be exposed to the sun for at least 12 hours after application to the skin, so be careful where you apply. 

** BONUS! "HAPPY BLEND"

Let your child smell your oils and choose 3-5 of their favorites (and try to include a citrus one if you can). Put 2-4 drops each in a 10ml roller bottle and fill the rest of the way with carrier oil. Rub on their wrists and let them inhale the scents that make them happy! (My kids love their happy blends!)

Interested in getting these amazing oils for yourself? Four of the ones I use in these recipes (Lavender, Thieves, Lemon, and Frankincense) come in the Premium Starter Kit, which is by far the best deal Young Living has to offer (11 oils, a diffuser, and extra goodies--over $300 in value--all for $160). If you aren't ready to take the plunge for the whole kit, but still want to try a few oils, that's okay too. I can help you get all the oils you want, so let me know how I can assist you!

I will definitely be posting more about the oils we love to use, so be sure to follow along! Subscribe to my RSS feed in the sidebar to get my posts delivered straight to your inbox so you never miss one.

These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA and are not intended to diagnose or treat any condition.

Happy Face Care

I'm here to share my skin care routine with y'all today. First of all, I've been using the oil cleansing method on my face for over four years now. I'm seriously in love with how it makes my face feel! Tea Tree is great for gentle cleansing and preventing blemishes.

I just recently learned about all the benefits of Frankincense for the skin, so I've added that to my beauty routine with a weekly sugar scrub. I also made a little roller with Frankincense and Gentle Baby to help reduce the appearance of old scars and fine lines. I'm hoping it'll help with the pesky dark circles I've been fighting since having Baby #4, too! (And bonus--the roller is great for stretch marks, too!)

On to the recipes!
Happy Face Wash (for daily cleansing and makeup removal)

• extra virgin olive oil*
• castor oil*
• 1-3 drops Tea Tree

1. Mix oils in a bottle.
2. Using a quarter-size amount, rub onto dry face using upward circular motion.
3. Steam face with a hot washcloth for about a minute.
4. Remove oil with washcloth and hot water.

* For normal skin, use equal parts olive oil and castor oil. For oily skin, try 1 part olive oil to 3 parts castor oil. For dry skin, try 3 parts olive oil to 1 part castor oil.


Happy Face Roller (for fine lines, blemishes, and overall healthful glow)

• 10 drops Frankincense*
• 10 drops Gentle Baby*

1. Mix in a 10ml roller bottle and fill the rest of the way with carrier oil.
2. Roll on face, concentrating on scars, blemishes, and fine lines.

* Or Lavender, Geranium, Tea Tree, Sandalwood, Cedarwood, etc


Happy Face Scrub (for exfoliation; I use once a week)

• 1 tsp coconut oil (fractionated works best)
• 2 tsp sugar
• 2-3 drops Frankincense*

1. Mix oils in a glass bowl and add sugar, stirring to combine.
2. When ready to use, scoop some of the scrub into your hand and rub all over your face.
3. Rinse off with hot water and a washcloth or in the shower.

* Or Lavender, Geranium, Tea Tree, Sandalwood, Cedarwood, etc


Have you discovered the benefits of Frank for yourself? What oils do you use in your skin care routine?

Haven't taken the plunge into the oily life yet? I can help you take the first steps! Frankincense comes in the Premium Starter Kit, which is by far the best deal Young Living has to offer (11 oils, a diffuser, and extra goodies--over $300 in value--all for $160). Or, if you want to try Frank just by itself, that's not a problem. Let me know how I can assist you!

I will definitely be posting more about the oils we love to use, so be sure to follow along! Subscribe to my RSS feed in the sidebar to get my posts delivered straight to your inbox so you never miss one.

These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA and are not intended to diagnose or treat any condition.

5 Must-Have Oils for Kids

If I could only recommend five oils to any mama with young kids, here are the ones I would choose. These oils are gentle and versatile, so they can be used for any number of things! I titled this post 5 Must-Have Oils for Kids, but I probably should have changed it to 5 Must-Have Oils for Mamas! Oh well, I'm on vacation, so it's too late to change it now!

Without further ado, here are my top five picks for kids/mamas:

Lavender • Lavender is sometimes referred to as the Swiss Army Knife of essential oils because it is SO versatile! If you could only have one oil, this is the one I'd recommend--it's gentle enough for sensitive skin and little babies, but it packs a powerful punch. When in doubt, Lavender! I love how it calms and soothes emotions and it's always what I reach for first when my kids get a boo boo. It offers support for the respiratory system, the nervous system, skin and hair, emotions, the muscular/skeletal system, and the cardiovascular system. Doesn't get any better than that!

Tea Tree • Tea Tree (aka Melaleuca) is also a very versatile oil. It is a must for eliminating odors (and every mama knows that kids come with odors!) and is also great to freshen up laundry when you inevitably forget to put the load from the washer into the dryer. Tea Tree is wonderful for your hair, skin, and nails, and also supports the respiratory and immune systems. I love mixing Tea Tree with Lavender in a roller bottle to rub on minor cuts, scrapes, and burns. I never leave home without my "Boo Boo Blend!" (Also works on clogged milk ducts, mamas!!)

Orange/Lemon/Any Citrus • Citrus scents might as well be my love language. I love how they freshen up a room or a bad mood. Did you know that citrus oils are both energizing (small doses) and calming (large doses)? They are balancing to the emotions, they help elevate moods, and they inspire focus. Citrus oils also provide great support to the digestive and immune systems. My personal favorite is Orange! (Just be careful when applying topically--citrus oils can cause photosensitivity, and we wouldn't want your little ones getting a sunburn!)

Gentle Baby • Gentle Baby is great for babies and mamas alike. Not only does it help calm and relax the little ones by supporting the nervous system, it's also great for the skin. It's so gentle that it can be used to make baby wash and diaper cream, yet it's strong enough to reduce the appearance of scars (stretch marks anyone?). Every mama needs this oil in her arsenal!

Thieves • Hello, protection and defense against germs! Thieves is actually one of the best oils for boosting your kids' little immune systems. I dilute it and put it in a roller bottle to rub on the bottoms of their feet. Thieves can also aid respiratory function, so sometimes I'll roll it on my older kids' spines when they're sick. But I also love love love diffusing it. Germs be gone! (Just make sure to dilute, as Thieves contains three oils that are considered "hot" to the skin!)

Interested in getting these amazing oils for yourself? Three of them (Lavender, Lemon, and Thieves) come with the Premium Starter Kit, which is by far the best deal Young Living has to offer (11 oils, a diffuser, and extra goodies--over $300 in value--all for $160). If you aren't ready to take the plunge for the whole kit, but still want to try a few oils, that's okay too. I can help you get the all oils you want, so let me know how I can assist you!

I will definitely be posting more about the oils we love to use, so be sure to follow along! Subscribe to my RSS feed in the sidebar to get my posts delivered straight to your inbox so you never miss one.

These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA and are not intended to diagnose or treat any condition.

11 Everyday Uses for the Premium Starter Kit

When I first got started with essential oils, I had no idea what I was doing. Half of the oils sat unused and unopened in my cabinet, because I just didn't know what to do with them! I do not want that uncertainty for you, so I've put together this post to highlight 11 ways to incorporate Young Living's Premium Starter Kit into your everyday life.

The PSK comes with some of the very best and most popular oils. There are literally so. many. ways to integrate these oils into your life, but I don't want to overwhelm you! I've only included one use for each oil in the PSK, but if you're curious about what else they can do, leave a comment, find me on Instagram, or send me an email. I'd love to answer your questions!

I always recommend diluting your oils in a carrier oil (like coconut, almond, or olive). I love to put the diluted oils in handy roller bottles for ease of application!

1. Thieves Vitality • Rub on the bottoms of feet every morning to support a healthy immune system.
2. DiGize Vitality • Put 2-4 drops in a gel capsule and take before meals to aid with digestion.
3. Lemon Vitality • Add 1 drop to 8oz water (glass only) every morning to give your energy and digestive system a boost.
4. Copaiba Vitality • Diffuse to promote a calming atmosphere.
5. Peppermint Vitality • Massage a drop into temples, neck, or over sinuses to reduce pressure.
6. Frankincense • Apply to face to minimize blemishes and lines and to create a healthy glow.
7. Purification • Add 2-4 drops to cotton ball and place in bottoms of trash cans to reduce odors.
8. R.C. • Diffuse to support healthy respiratory and immune systems.
9. Lavender • Add to carrier oil and apply to skin to soothe and promote relaxation before bedtime.
10. PanAway • Add to carrier oil and massage into feet (or wherever!) in the evening to relieve sore muscles.
11. Stress Away • Apply to wrists and back of neck to alleviate stress.

Interested in getting these amazing oils for yourself? Three of them come with the Premium Starter Kit! It's the best value Young Living has to offer -- 11 oils, a diffuser, and extra goodies, all for $160! Ask me how you can get yours!

These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA and are not intended to diagnose or treat any condition.

I make a commission for purchases made through Amazon links.
Prices are exactly the same for you if your purchase is through affiliate links or non-affiliate links.
You will not pay more by purchasing via these links.

Fab Four // 1

My favorite oils are always changing, depending on my moods and what my family needs, so I'm periodically going to put a post together to highlight my current Fab Four! First up...

Thieves • I'm completely in love with Thieves; it's without a doubt the most-used oil in my diffuser. It is great for so many things, besides just smelling super yummy. Thieves is one of the most powerful blends for immune support and can be used topically, aromatically, and internally. I like to add a drop to hot apple cider or hot tea. It is also used in a whole line of YL Thieves Products which include household cleaners, laundry soap, oral care, hand soaps and sanitizers, and more! I haven't tried all of these products, but believe me, they are on my list!

Stress Away • This is the oil that turned my hubby from a skeptic into a believer! I rub it on the back of his neck to help him unwind when he's had a long day at work. I apply it to myself when I'm feeling overwhelmed or generally stressed (which is fairly common when you have four littles). We've used it on our necks and upper back during road trips to cut down on the (physical and emotional) tension that driving can create. It was great to have in a roll-on bottle during my sister's wedding, too. I’ve even used it to calm myself down during dentist appointments, which always stress me out. Just opening the bottle and inhaling deeply helps.

Peace & Calming II • I mean, it's all in the name, right? Mamas of littles, you need this stuff, both for yourself and the babies. My kids are pretty good sleepers generally, so I don't know if these blends help them sleep better, but they definitely help with the calming-down-before-bed! I notice I wake up more refreshed when I apply P&C II to the bottoms of my feet before bed. It's also great in the diffuser to help support good emotions, something we desperately need in our house!

Purification • I mostly use this blend as an air freshener/purifier, but its actually far more versatile than just aromatic! Because Purification contains citronella, it makes a great insect repellent, but if you forget to apply before going out, you can rub a little on any bites you get for some itch-relief. My favorite uses for this blend include diffusing in the bathroom (because boys) and putting a few drops on a cloth and throwing it in the dryer with a load of clothes. (Not because I've left them in the washer so long that they've gotten sour... no, I never ever do that...)

Interested in getting these amazing oils for yourself? Three of them come with the Premium Starter Kit! It's the best value Young Living has to offer -- 11 oils, a diffuser, and extra goodies, all for $160! Ask me how you can get yours!

I will definitely be posting more about my favorite oils, so be sure to follow along! Subscribe to my RSS feed in the sidebar to get my posts delivered straight to your inbox so you never miss one.

These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA and are not intended to diagnose or treat any condition.

Premium Starter Kit

The Premium Starter Kit is the absolute best way to begin your oiling journey! Not only is it the most cost effective, but it comes with all of Young Living's most popular or versatile oils! There are literally SO many uses for the 11 different oils, you almost don't need any more. (But trust me, you will want more!)

The PSK totally pays for itself.  If you were to buy the ten included oils individually, you'd spend over $300. But with the PSK, you get all of them for $160, plus a diffuser (retailing around $80), plus a bonus oil (retailing around $40), plus samples to share, plus some extra goodies! I mean... you can't get a much better deal than that!


What exactly comes in the PSK?

1. Oils • Eleven 5ml bottles of the some of the best essential oils (more about these in a minute).
2. Diffuser • There are four diffusers to choose from that cause the PSK to vary in price. I have the Home Diffuser!
3. Samples • Two sample packets of NingXia Red (YL's super yummy, antioxidant-rich, energy boosting drink) and ten sample oil packets for you to share.
4. Extras • AromaGlide™ roller top attachment that will turn any oil into a roll-on; 10 sample business cards; 10 empty oil drams for sharing samples.
5. Literature • YL's pretty Product Guide and price list, Essential Oil Magazine, Essential Edge, and member resources.

As a benefit to signing with my team, you'll also be given access to an amazing upline who will support you in your business and answer all your oily questions. You'll also have access to our classes, graphics, and resources. I'd love for you to become a part of our group!

What's so great about these oils?

Ah, yes, of course -- the stars of the PSK! Here are the 11 oils included in the kit* and a little bit about what they can do. I'll be posting more about how to integrate these oils into your daily routine soon.

• Thieves Vitality • Supports healthy immune function; may support a healthy respiratory system and contribute to overall wellness when taken as a dietary supplement. Contains Clove, Lemon, Cinnamon, Eucalyptus Radiata, and Rosemary oils.
• DiGize Vitality • Supports a healthy digestive system; may contribute to overall wellness when taken as a dietary supplement. Contains Tarragon, Ginger, Peppermint, Juniper, Fennel, Lemongrass, Anise, and Patchouli oils.
• Peppermint Vitality • Supports gastrointestinal comfort and normal digestion; may support healthy gut function and digestive efficiency when taken as a dietary supplement; may support exercise performance.
• Copaiba Vitality • Sweet, soothing aroma; helps promote wellness; helps support the body's response to injury and irritation; driving oil (helps other oils be more effective).
• Lemon Vitality • Helps promote good energy and healthy skin natural cleanser; may support healthy digestive and excretory systems when taken as a dietary supplement.
• PanAway • Supports and soothes muscles; may help relieve head or neck tension, muscle soreness, cramps, and other mild physical discomforts when applied topically. Contains Wintergreen, Helichrysum, Clove, and Peppermint oils.
• Lavender • One of the most versatile oils; promotes a restful night sleep; helps maintain healthy skin; may alleviate tension and stress; may soothe minor burns and cuts.
• R.C. • Supports healthy respiratory and immune systems; can be soothing to the sinuses and throat; may support exercise performance. Contains Eucalyptus Globulus, Myrtle, Marjoram, Pine, Eucalyptus Radiata, Eucalyptus Citriodora, Lavender, Cypress, Black Spruce, and Peppermint oils.
• Purification • Diffuse to freshen the air and eliminate odors; helps maintain healthy skin; may keep bugs away when applied topically. Contains Citronella, Lavandin, Lemongrass, Rosemary, Myrtle, and Tea Tree oils.
• Frankincense • One of the most versatile oils; helps maintain healthy skin; may support gastrointestinal comfort; promotes feelings of peace and relaxation.
• Stress Away (BONUS!) • Promotes relaxation; may reduce daily stress; may alleviate tension and nervousness; may relax tired or sore muscles. Contains Copaiba, Lime, Cedarwood, Vanilla, Ocotea, and Lavender oils.

* Flex oils are substituted for regular PSK oils in the event of supply constraints: AromaEase, Citrus Fresh Vitality, Lemongrass Vitality, Orange Vitality, and Tea Tree. If you want info about these, let me know!

How do I sign up?

1. Sign up as a member here!
2. Check the box for "Member" -- hello lifetime 24% discount!
3. Make sure to indicate that you were referred by a member (me!) and that the number 1734595 in is both the "enroller" and "sponsor" fields.
4. Fill out your information and be sure to include your email.
5. Choose your Premium Starter Kit!
6. Sign up for Essential Rewards to start accumulating points towards free products and become eligible for reduced shipping! (There's no contract or obligation, so you can cancel your ER order at any time.)

What if I don't want to sell?

Rest assured -- there is no obligation to ever share or sell! If you want to maintain your membership, all you have to do is make a 50PV order within one calendar year (that's basically $50). But if you hate the product, you never even have to make another purchase! How's that for low pressure?

Any questions? Don't hesitate to contact me -- I'd love to hear from you!

These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA and are not intended to diagnose or treat any condition.