Do You Oil?

Essential oils are quickly becoming a part of my everyday life. I am in no way an expert, but I have had some success with them. While I can't say I have had life altering experiences with the oils, they have been a good addition.

Here are a few of the ways I use essential oils. (I personally use DoTerra essential oils. There are other good brands available so do your research to make sure you are getting legitimate therapeutic grade oils.)

Diffusing

This is my favorite way to use oils. There are tons of ideas on Pinterest for diffuser blends for relaxation, allergies, focus, bedtime, etc.

I have started using Norwex products (which is an entire post in itself) so I don't get the "clean" smell from cleaning products. While I am cleaning I will diffuse Purify and Wild Orange. It gives the room a clean smell and purifies the air at the same time.

I have also started diffusing lemon, lavender and peppermint for seasonal allergies. I was a little worried about the combination, but it isn't bad. Every once in a while I will catch one that seems stronger than the others, but it is a nice smell.

Not only do the oils make the room smell good, I am also breathing them in as they waft in the room. I have used them to calm the dog, too!

Headaches

Like many people, I suffer from headaches and the occasional migraine. Sometimes I try and push through them, but there are times that they get really intense and I can't focus on much. Peppermint is great for headaches. I will put it on my temples, across my forehead and the back of my neck. However, sometimes the peppermint doesn't cut it. My cousin clued me into frankincense. I will put a drop on my thumb and hold it to the roof of my mouth for 2 or 3 minutes. Be prepared to drool! A few weeks ago I had a headache that wasn't going away. I used frankincense on the roof of my mouth and then used it on my temples along with peppermint and lavender. My headache was almost completely gone in less than 30 minutes. I was impressed!!

Wellness

DoTerra has vitamins that have a blend of oils in them called the Lifelong Vitality Pack. I have been taken them for a few months, but haven't been too consistent until about the last 6 weeks or so. I do feel better when I take them. If I remember to take them after lunch, I don't get that mid-afternoon slump that I am prone to. It isn't only that I don't fall into the slump, but I have energy. One Saturday, I was wide awake at 5:30 and was busy until I sat down again at 10 that night. I don't think I have ever had a more productive day. I do credit the vitamins.

Sickness

Of course, I also take them when I am sick. I have had a few colds this winter and the oils have helped me battle through them. Breathe smells like Vicks Vapor Rub. I put that on one night when I was having trouble sleeping because my nose was all stuffy. After rubbing it on my chest and neck, I was able to sleep through the night! That always makes a sickie feel better.