Thursday, August 29, 2013

25 All Purpose Remedies for Your EO Journal!



I love a list!


Many of us have been using essential oils for a long time now, why don't we come together and share our "stuff" so that any newbies "wandering" by can learn from our experience.  Please feel free to add your own suggestions for EO Journal entries in the comments sections below!  







1.  Got hiccups?  Dab some Peppermint on the back of your neck, a little on each side of the spinal cord.

2.  Runny nose?  Swipe a drop of Lemon down each side of the nose to dry it up.  Stay out of the sun afterwards to avoid sunburn.

3.  Drowsy in the afternoon? Combine Peppermint and Wild Orange, apply to the back of the neck, next inhale the oil left on your hands!  Love this!

4.  Itchy, irritated eyes?  Dab Lavender with a bit of carrier oil on the facial bones surrounding your eyes (careful to keep oil away from eyes).  If applying to children, make sure they don't rub their eyes until oil is absorbed.

5.  Allergies?  Mix up equal parts of Lavender, Lemon and Peppermint ~ nature's antibiotic!  Apply to bottom's of feet morning and night.  Diffuse if possible.  Spark Naturals now sells the blend, so convenient!

6.  Ear Ache/Infection?  Combine 2 drops Basil or Melaleuca with a little carrier oil and rub around the rim of ear, behind ear and just inside.  Apply several times a day.  Never drop essential oils into the ear.

7.  Trouble breathing?  Due to congestion or asthma?  Apply Respire blend on chest, then cup one hand against palm with residual Respire blend on it ~ creating an "inhaler" ~ and suck the vapors from palm into chest for quick relief.

8.  Bad breath?  A drop of Peppermint on your tongue and you're kissable fresh again!

9.  To freshen laundry?  Add a few drops of your favorite EOs onto a clean rag and toss into the dryer with wet laundry.

10.  Smelly carpet?  Add 15 drops of your favorite EOs to a cup of baking soda or cornstarch, mix well and let sit for a day.  Sprinkle on carpet, let sit for an hour and vacuum the stink away!

11.  Athlete's foot?  Melaleuca works wonders!  Apply neat to affected areas twice a day.

12.  Toe fungus?  Melaleuca to the rescue again!  Use neat, dab affected toe with saturated q-tip applying to the surface of toenail morning and night.

13.  Unsightly warts or skin tags?  Apply morning and night.  If using Oregano, use a Qtip to dab one drop of on affected area...this will give you good control of application.  Oregano is a hot oil so you won't want to spread it around.  Skin tags should fall off in a couple of weeks, you'll be impressed!  

For kids:  Lemon works wonderfully too!  Apply morning and night and don't cover with a bandaid, it's important to let the area breathe.  Also, it's convenient to put the EO in a roll-on bottle so kids can apply themselves...they like taking charge :)  Again, careful of too much sun after application.


14.  Cellulite Woes?  Pour a bottle of Grapefruit into a 4 oz. bottle of fractionated coconut oil and rub into problem areas after shower or bath.  You'll smell divine and your skin will be so soft!


15.  Diaper Rash?  Mix up some Diaper Spray.  18 oz water, 1 t. organic body wash, 4 drops Melaleuca, 4 drops Lavender.  (great diaper rash preventative too!)  All Purpose Healing Salve is a wonder for this as well!


16.  Sanitizing Wipes:  Make your own, or add Lemon and Lavender (or EOs of choice) to store bought baby wipes.  Remove wipes from container, squeeze out excess moisture and let dry out a few hours. Slowly add alcohol free Witch Hazel with 6 drops each of Lavender and Lemon added and pour over wrung out or dried out store bought wipes.  Save those dried up wipes, its easy!

17.  Dogs w/ Fleas?  Drip a couple drops of Melaleuca on back of collar.  Or, tie a bandanna with a few drops of Melaleuca around your dogs neck and watch fleas flee!


18.  Dog's w/ Ear Infection?  Couple of drops of Melaleuca and carrier oil on a cotton ball, wipe inside of ear several times a day.


19.  Dog w/ Sunburned Nose?  Dab a little Lavender with carrier oil on his honker.


20.  Muscle Ache?  1 part Amend blend with 1 part fractionated coconut oil as a penetrating, pain relieving massage oil, add a drop of Birch or Wintergreen for extra strength.


21.  Healthy home fragrance?  Add a few drops of your favorite EOs to a diffuser, one of the least expensive additions to your home's health.

22.  Mice?  Place cotton balls with Peppermint in problem areas

23.  Fever?  A few drops of Peppermint mixed with a carrier oil and applied to the torso can drop body temp 3 degrees in minutes!


24.  Burns?  A drop of Lavender will immediately stop the pain and tissue damage.


25.  Heartburn?  A couple drops of Peppermint in a small glass of milk or almond will knock out heartburn.



Need some ideas for your own EO Journal?






Now it's your turn!  

What are YOUR favorite ways to use essential oils?



As always, enjoy a 10% off all Spark Naturals orders with this coupon code:  campwander



Tuesday, August 27, 2013

EOs: How Much? How Often?


When I was new to essential oils, I'm the first to admit I was intimidated!  


Thankfully, I soon learned that there was nothing to be afraid of, because there isn't a "wrong" way to use EOs (caveat: don't drip them in your eyes or ears please!).  I was so tuned in to the mindset of "harmful side effects" from my lifelong experience with traditional medicine that it took some effort to shake free from that.





My EO Journal ~ courtesy of Smash Book!


As I stepped into this (new to me) approach to wellness I knew there would be a learning curve and it would be up to me to do my homework.  Two questions were always flying out of my mouth!  How much?  How often?  Trust me, once you get the hang of this...everything will click and you'll be the healer in your home in no time, so here we go!



The Feet!  Your body's largest pores ~ great area for topical application.


If you learn nothing else from this blog post, remember this: When it comes to pure essential oils, don't assume that more is always better.  Sometimes it's true but here's the thing about essential oils....


If you want optimal results, practice consistency, research supports this recommendation.


Finding the right dose will depend on the individual.  Experts recommend that smaller doses be applied and then observed.  How is the body reacting?  Are there positive results? Adjustments to dose and frequency can then be made, no worries!  Truly, it's such a relief AND a pleasure to know that I'm practicing safe and sane wellness in my home. 


Suboccipital Triangle or:  Base of Brain Stem for Topical Application



  • Adults ~ start with 2 to 3 drops massaged into each foot or on the area of concern.  Because these oils are safe and pure, you can always apply more oils after 15 minutes if needed. 
  • Adults ~ can also ingest pure essential oils by capsule if preferred.  Start with 3 to 4 drops.  You can repeat the dose 15 minutes later if needed.
  • For chronic or stubborn virus infection, apply or ingest oils every 2 hours for 3 to 4 days after symptoms completely disappear. 


It's always a good idea to stay hydrated when when using essential oils.   Drink lots of water with 3 to 4 drops of Lemon essential to help move toxins out of the body.

Rule of Thumb:  Optimizing therapeutic benefits is best achieved by using smaller amounts and applying more frequently.





Note:  When treating children always cut the dose in half and dilute with a carrier oil such as fractionated coconut oil (FCO) or any vegetable based oil.  



Applying and massaging into little feet is an excellent application method for kids. 




Spark Naturals PURE therapeutic grade essential oils are powerfully potent with diverse chemistry.  Because of their purity, our bodies respond beautifully to them most of the time as our biochemistry is similar.  For this reason, I only use and recommend PURE EOs.



I hope this information helps to give you some boundaries to lean on in times of consternation.  You're doing great, keep up the good work!


As always, enjoy a 10% discount on all Spark Naturals products with the CW coupon code:  campwander



Friday, August 23, 2013

Spark Naturals Affiliate Program! How to Sign Up!



Not too long ago I announced that it was a NEW DAY for Camp Wander and I haven't looked back since.

Are you interested in sharing Spark Naturals essential oils with family and friends too?  If so, I have an awesome opportunity to tell you about.  SN recently opened up an  Affiliate Program!  As an affiliate, you'll be able to tell others about Spark Naturals therapeutic grade PURE essential oils and earn a commission for your time and efforts!  

As an affiliate, you can offer your family and friends an additional 10% discount on any Spark Naturals products and in return, earn a commission!
  
That's a Win! Win! in my book :)



How it all Works...


Spark Naturals is not an MLM (multi-level) company.  No enrollment fees, monthly minimums, auto-ship requirements, inflated prices or pressure to perform.  Much like the Amazon affiliate program I'm part of, it's just a clean and easy marketing concept that you can do YOUR way.  It's a great way to pay for your oils or step thing up and really increase your income!   

Affiliate FAQ
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How do I earn commission as an Affiliate?

The simplicity of the the Affiliate Program makes the compensation plan very easy to understand.  Whenever anyone uses your Affiliate Discount Code, you earn a commission from each product ordered and listed as your referral.  To view the commission schedule {CLICK HERE to Download}.  

You also have the ability to recruit Affiliates and earn a commission from their sales as well!

Is there a screening process?

Yes, there is.  Your application will be reviewed quickly and in the order they arrive. There is one requirement that SN will look for, you will need to have placed an order with Spark Naturals previous to sending in your application. They simply want to know that you have some experience with their products.  Once you're approved, you'll be given a Discount Code (10% off incentive) unique to you and, a web-link for your social media.


If you haven't placed an order yet, I have a suggestion. Sign up for the Oil of the Month Club, it's the BEST EO deal around!  

Just $15.99 (shipping incl.) per month for a 15ml bottle of the featured EO of the month!  August is Shield protective blend, a great EO to have on hand for cold and flu season. There's still a few days left in August to get yours!


I'm excited to share this opportunity with you!  

Spark Naturals fair approach to the business of EOs impressed me from day one. They're experiencing rapid growth by filling a niche for people who want access to high quality EOs without hassle, high prices or expectations.  Ok, I have to say it...their commission pay out rocks!  I paid off two credit cards today, scouts honor!! What a great feeling!!  


If you're interested in joining CW as a new Spark Naturals Affiliate please download the application, fill it out and fax it to 801-987-9144.  Application ----> {CLICK HERE to download}. Spark Naturals will then contact you personally to help you through the rest of the process and get you on your way!
  


Make it a new day for YOU!






Thursday, August 22, 2013

Williams Sonoma Store Scent "All in One" Blend!



FALL

"Days decrease, and Autumn grows, Autumn in everything"

Robert Browning


Like it or not, Summer is quickly fading but Fall awaits!  I happen to LOVE the Fall and already my internal calendar is adjusting to that fact in the food I'm hungry for and the scents I'm ready to smell again, like cinnamon, wild orange, vanilla etc.  

What about you?



Most of us, if given the chance enjoy strolling through a William Sonoma store.  Have you ever noticed the signature fragrance wafting through?  A little rosemary, some citrus and definitely vanilla.  Ahhhh...I love it!


A simple recipe using Spark Naturals essential oils that can be diffused or sprayed to scent and purify the air.  An "all in one" diffuser/spray blend!

I added cinnamon and clove for spice and health making the fragrance perfect for the holidays too! 

Bonus! Everything you breathe in will benefit you...especially during cold and flu season!



WS Home Fragrance ~ CW Style

RECIPE
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Add the EOs to an empty spray bottle...


10 drops Wild Orange
5 drops Clove
2 drops Rosemary
7 drops Vanilla Absolute (optional)

Add the rest...

1 1/2 cups water
1 tablespoon Vodka (to emulsify and sweeten but optional)


There you have it, your "all in one" faux Williams Sonoma Store scent blend!  You can spray it or diffuse it...either way, it's ready to go when you are because the water has been added and the EOs have been measured.  

Just pour into your diffuser right from the spray bottle and resist the urge to play Christmas carols :)


Upcycle a Glass Bottle TIP!
perfect for EO blend sprays

Before

After


As always, enjoy the CW 10% discount on any Spark Naturals order with this discount code:  campwander


Monday, August 19, 2013

All Purpose Healing Salve ~ SOAP!



Some Things Are Best Left to Unexpected Inspiration

It was a scheduled All Purpose Healing Salve day.  Two dozen jars were filled, 2 tablespoons of coconut oil were ingested (a daily goal) and all was going swimmingly until I ran out of soap at the kitchen sink.  I ran downstairs to get my bottle of Dr. Bronner's to use as a refill and the "magic" soap took hold...we were on to something!





The ORIGINAL All Purpose Healing Salve Recipe can be found {HERE}.

Crafted with pure plant essence, super healthy coconut oil and emollient olive oil you can look younger, dress a wound, calm a child, alleviate allergies and SO much more!


Back to the unexpected inspiration...
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SOAP!

What could be better for you than pure soap (Dr. Bronners), hand processed coconut oil, olive oil and Lavender, Lemon and Melaleuca EOs all whipped up into an emollient, healing soap? With whipped soap there's no cooking or melting involved of any kind.  Just a bowl and a hand mixer, that's it!



The base of the salve and the soap is organic virgin coconut oil and olive oil.  Coconut oil is a natural moisturizer with antibacterial properties. Olive oil has lots of anti-oxidants, including Hydroxytyrosol with anti-inflammatory properties.

I'm a recent devotee of the coconut oil shown in the photo, it makes the most incredibly smooth Healing Salve...it's a beautiful sight and such a pleasure to use!



The following is an excerpt from the Tropical Traditions website to help you understand what makes this oil so special... 


This Tropical Traditions Gold Label Virgin Coconut Oil is a truly unrefined coconut oil. This coconut oil is made on Mt. Banahaw and surrounding areas from organic coconuts. Coconuts are used fresh (within 24-48 hours of harvest) from small family farms on Mt. Banahaw and other rural places in Quezon Province, the coconut capital of the Philippines. Only the highest quality coconuts are hand-picked from each harvest. The volcanic soil of Mt. Banahaw makes these organic coconuts some of the most nutritionally rich coconuts in the world! Testing done in independent laboratories on coconut oil antioxidants reveals higher levels of phenolic antioxidants than other coconut oils.  The fresh coconut meat is shredded (wet milled), and then cold-pressed using the water from inside the coconuts to make coconut milk. The milk is then allowed to sit for about half a day, while the oil naturally separates from the heavier water. The oil is then filtered from the curds (coconut solids). No chemical or high-heat treatment is used, and this oil contains no trans fatty acids. We do NOT mass produce this oil. It is made by families who are coconut farmers using old-fashioned traditional methods that have been used in the Philippines for hundreds of years. Our coconut trees and family producers are certified organic according to strict USDA standards. The families who produce the oil are also trained according to GMP (Good Manufacturing Practice) standards and re-certified each year. This high-grade Virgin Coconut Oil has a long shelf life due to the high antioxidant properties. The Gold Label Standard is our highest standard for Virgin Coconut Oil.


Find Gold Label coconut oil {HERE}.


RECIPE
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I should warn you this isn't a sudsy soap, it's a creamy, emollient blend of oils with a little castile soap added. All of the oils have cleansing properties of their own, your skin will come away feeling clean AND moisturized and healthier for it.  I've "washed" my face with coconut oil for years, believe me...it cleans :)

2 cups Coconut Oil - high quality is important
2 tablespoons Olive Oil
2 tablespoons Dr. Bronners Liquid Castile Soap or any other organic liquid soap of choice.

40 drops Lavender
30 drops Melaleuca
20 drops Lemon  

Whip the coconut oil first on low speed...you'll want it nice and smooth, there will still be small lumps though.  Add the olive oil, then the soap...blend slowly on low speed.  Add the EOs next and blend once more.



One of the challenges with whipped soap is what kind of container to use.  If you want to keep it in the shower, it's best to find a BPA Free plastic containers.  My favorite are the plastic canning jars by Ball.




I love how moisturizing this soap is, there's no need to slather lotion on after a bath or shower!  But the healing properties of the soap are the real stars.  Lavender soothes and heals, Lemon cleanses and disinfects while Melaleuca is anti-bacterial and anti-fungal! The soap is safe for kids and babies, just be careful of a slightly slick bathtub afterwards.
  


The End!


As always, enjoy a 10% discount on all Spark Naturals order with this discount code:  campwander



Sunday, August 18, 2013

Save My Sanity Essential Oil Blends!




We've had lots of requests for another offer of the "Save My Sanity" Sampler, here we go again!  This is a limited offer :)


Some days you just need a little help...

One of my favorite uses for essential oils is stress management! Most days a little dab will do me, some days I need a whole layering strategy.  The fact that I can call the shots on how much or how little I use is one of the things I love best about essential oils.  By choosing a natural alternative, I get to listen to my body and respond rather than follow a standard pharmaceutical protocol.




My daughter Tiffany and I designed a sampling of "sanity saver" blends that we rely on for ourselves and the little people in our family because heaven knows, life can be stressful for all of us.  

Little Chloe and Jack keep their cute momma hoppin with sleep issues, teething, toddler tantrums etc.  Trust me...everyone's sanity can benefit from just a few "tried and true" EO blends.

Again, because we reach for a natural alternative like pure EOs we can tailor the whole family's needs when they're needed!  With a prevalent ADD/ADHD and anxiety streak swinging through our family tree, we're grateful and relieved for our "natural pharmacy"!


"Save My Sanity" Sampler Kit
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Jeddy's Blend: 
A Natural Alternative to ADD, ADHD & Anxiety  Read the story behind Jeddy's Blend {HERE}  This blend of pure EOs has been a game changer for many!  If you take a few minutes to read the testimonials {HERE} you'll soon come to realize it's probably one that you and your loved ones would like to have around.  


How to use:
Helping kids have a successful school day or adults have more focus is best done by applying Jeddy's Blend to the bottoms of the feet each morning.

  
Suboccipital Triangle
Apply to the entire sole and under the toes as well as the base of the brain stem as shown in the photo.  It's also helpful to apply again after school for better focus during homework.  

My sister's and I find that layering Jeddy's Blend with Liquid Xanax on ourselves is oh so nice!




Liquid Xanax:
My niece Maggie from Passion Pill named one of our favorite anxiety blends, Liquid Xanax.  The nickname was so appropriate, it stuck!  The blend is equal parts Spark Natural's Zen and a yet to be released proprietary blend by Spark Naturals.  Note:  A wonderful alternative is equal parts Zen and Jeddy's Blend!  

How to use:
Apply Liquid Xanax topically to base of brain stem, shoulders and even on the bottom of feet as needed.  This is a wonderful blend to diffuse too!


Dream:
This is my favorite blend to induce a deep, restful sleep!  The combination of cinnamon bark, ginger, peppermint, lemon and grapefruit calms adrenals and balances blood sugar allowing your relax into a restful slumber.  

How to use:
Liberally apply to bottom of feet and pads of toes before bed.


Zen:
I'm in love to the point of distraction with Zen.  This is a Spark Natural's blend of Spruce, Rosewood, Blue Tansy and Frankincense but, what sets it apart is it's potency.  Other companies cut this blend with fractionated coconut oil, SN doesn't...it's all EO baby!  

How to use:
Apply topically to base of brain stem, bottoms of feet and/or over the heart.  Great in the diffuser too!

Note:  Unsure about how to use the included roller bottle??  This is the blend that could easily be diluted with the fractionated coconut oil in the sampler.  Because Zen is uncut with FCO, it's beautifully potent and, economical.  Add some FCO to make it go that much further!




My daughter Tiffany is kind enough to help me make this offer, thanks honey!  

{ The Save my Sanity Sampler }

5/8 dram Jeddys Blend 
5/8 dram Liquid Xanax 
5/8 dram Dream 
5/8 dram Zen


{1}  5ml glass roller bottle w/ steel ball bearing roller {yay, love these!}

....in a CW signature altoid tin for your convenience :)

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The price of each Save My Sanity Sampler is $49.95 and includes shipping anywhere in the U.S. {Canada friends, please add $6.00}


Available until gone :)