Welcome to my essential oils blog! The purpose of this blog is to document my family's experience with dōTERRA oils and to share them with others. We've been using these oils for over two years now and I am convinced they are superior to any other EOs I have used before. Over the past 10+ years, we've been intentional towards living a more holistic and wholistic lifestyle, through both diet and medicinal approaches. Relying less on Western thought and practice toward medicine and overall well-being.

Essential oils have been used for thousands of years by the Egyptians, Greeks, Romans, Chinese, Indian Ayurvedic, Persians and widely throughout Europe. Historical uses include treatment of illness and injury, food preparation, beauty and hygeine practicies, religious ceremonies and aromatherapy. So, they can be used topically, internally and aromatically; often times most effective when all three methods are used simultaneously.

dōTERRA essential oils are beautifully pure and their potency and effectiveness is unmatched. They are certified pure therapeutic grade (CPTG) and are the only oils on the market that can be safely taken internally. I have seen remarkable results therapeutically, as well as medicinally and continue to learn more ways to integrate these oils into our lives. I hope this blog is helpful to you and provides inspiration to explore natural medicines and to live better.

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Basil-Cypress


Basil

For aromatic, topical or dietary use.

"Basil or Sweet Basil is a perennial found in warm climates or can be cultivated as an annual since it does not thrive well with frost. It is native to Asia but is now common in Europe and other areas. In Asia it has been used for thousands of years for medicinal purposes being known in India as tulsi and is a common part of their herbal medicine. There are a number of varieties but the one common for essential oils is the plant two to three feet high with oval hairy leaves and pink flowers. DōTerra Basil is from the family Lamiacea (Labiatae), the oil comes from the leaf of the plant, is steam distilled, and is grown in the United States.
 



Typical Applications
    
From migraines to bug bites, Basil evokes a broad range of biologic and physiological responses. Basil can be restorative to the nerves while calming to the central nervous system. Basil is safe and ample for use in respiratory and conditions of asthma. When used topically it is commonly referred to as a cooling herb and is used for rheumatic pain, irritating skin conditions and can easily be applied to sore muscles and joints. Basil oil can be used topically, internally and diffused into the environment."
 


Suggests uses for doTERRA Basil:
 
Arthritic pain
Calms nervous system - helps when there is excess cortisol
Cholesterol, lowers - helps get off Lipitor or other cholesterol drugs. Works at the cellular level to stop the oxidation of cholesterol.
Circulation, improves
Diabetes
Earache - put on cotton ball and place in or behind ear
Gastric spasms - apply topically to tummy
Gastric ulcers - take orally in a capsule
Gout
Headaches - apply topically to base of skull
Menstrual cramps
Muscle spasm
Muscle tension
 
Properties

Antibiotic
Antidepressant
Anti-inflammatory
Antiseptic
Decongestant
Disinfectant
Expectorant


Wellness Uses
 
Calm & Stress Relief
Cold and Flu Season
Disinfect House Areas
 
Common
Health Concerns
 
Bronchitis
Colds and Flu
Depression
Earache
Migraine
Insect Bites
Stress




 Application: Apply neat (no dilution required) to problem area, diffuse into the air with an EO diffuser, and/or add to food or water.





Bergamot

For aromatic, topical or internal use.

"Originally this fruit was cultivated and harvested from the northern Italian city of Bergamo and it was only used for medicinal purposes in the local region until rather recently. The tree is of the citrus variety with a small Orange-like fruit. The peel is cold pressed to obtain the oils. The lower grade oil extractions are very commonly used in the perfume industry.

Typical Applications

Historically, in Italy, it was used for fevers and digestive tract problems. More recently it has been shown to be effective in treating urinary tract infections, has excellent properties for skin care, and like many citrus oils is calming and therefore helpful with anxiety and depression.
Many find the aroma of this oil pleasing and diffuse it to help with anxiety or depression. Cup and inhale and other inhalation techniques would apply as well.
For skin problems such as acne, eczema, and psoriasis Bergamot may prove helpful in conjunction with other oils. It should be remembered that in high concentration and repeated useage, this oil can be a skin irritant but in modest useage it is very helpful for skin problems.
The oil is rated as GRAS by the FDA and can safely be used for internal consumption.
 
Precautions: Bergamot is photosensitive so if used topically on the skin the area should not be exposed to sunlight or ultraviolet light for 12 hours to avoid severe burning."
 
 

Properties
 
Analgesic
Antibiotic
Antidepressant
Anti-inflammatory
Antiseptic
Antispasmodic
Antiparasitic
Astringent
Digestive
Sedative


Wellness Uses
Calm & Stress Relief
Deodorant
Skin Care



Health Concerns
Anxiety
Depression
Eczema
Indigestion
Insomnia
Psoriasis
Urinary Tract Infection



Application: Apply neat (no dilution required) to problem area, diffuse into the air with an EO diffuser, add to food or water, also used as deodorant.
 

 

Black Pepper
 
For aromatic, topical or dietary use.

"The Black Pepper plant (piper nigum), now grown in most tropical regions of the world, is the source of the Black Peppercorn that is the most common spice in the world. The essential oil is steam distilled from the unripened, sun-dried, Peppercorns while the common spices are harvested at later times in the plant's maturing process. The essential oil is a clear, thin liquid with an aroma that is fresh, crisp and suggestive of the spice of the same plant
Black Pepper essential oil is very effective in aiding the digestive system by stimulating salivary glands and secretion of digestive juices in the intestinal tract. At the same time it neutralizes the formation of gas in the intestinal system while helping to cleanse the system. It is also a warming oil that increases circulation that then reduces inflammation and provides relief for arthritis and other muscle and joint discomforts.
Typical Applications

Black Pepper essential oil is warming when applied topically and can be used to relieve aching and tired muscles and joints. The increased circulation from topical application is also helpful in reducing bruising. Used internally Black Pepper is said to help the digestive system, kidneys, and to boost the immune system. The aroma is energizing and stimulating.

*Caution: Can cause extreme skin irritation."
 
Properties

Anti-inflammatory
Antiseptic
Circulatory
Diuretic
Stimulant

Wellness Uses
 
Immune Strength
Stimulant
 
Common
Health Concerns

Arthritis
Bruising
Constipation
Indigestion
Joint pain
Muscle pain
Poor circulation



 

 
Application: Dilute 1:4 for topical and apply to problem area, diffuse into the air with an EO diffuser, add to food or water.
    

Cassia

For aromatic or topical use.
 
"Cassia comes from China where it has been important for centuries in Chinese herbal medicine. the tree that Cassia comes from and the Cinnamon trees are closely related. The spice labeled Cinnamon commonly sold in stores today is usually Cassia as it is not as expensive as its cousin true Cinnamon. Cassia essential oils are usually made from the dried bark, twigs and/or the leaves of the tree. The aroma or flavor is similar to Cinnamon but not as intense or strong. DōTerra Cassia comes from the family Lauraceae, grown in China and is distilled from the twigs and leaves of the tree.

Typical Applications
 
Cassia is recommended for digestive problems including diarrhea and constipation. The typical recommendation is to add drops of oil to warm water with a sweetener and sip. It is also recommended for colds, fevers and flu using difussion. Another use mentioned is its help as a circulatory stimulant to help with arthritic or rheumatic pain.
 
Precautions: Care should be taken with neat topical application as this oil can be a skin irritant for sensitive skin or sensitive areas. Avoid using with infants and small children and dilute appropriately for those that may be more sensitive. Consult professional advice before use by those who are pregnant or nursing mothers."
 
Properties

Antibiotic
Antidiarrhea
Antiseptic
Antispasmodic
Antiviral
Astringent
Disinfectant
Stimulant

Wellness Uses
 
Cold and Flu Season
Disinfect Living Areas
 
Common
Health Concerns
 
Arthritic Pain
Colds and Flu
Constipation
Cough
Diarrhea
Stomach Ache



Application: Dilute 1:4 for topical and apply to problem area, diffuse into the air with an EO diffuser.
Cinnamon

For aromatic, topical or dietary use.
 
"Cinnamon, the common spice, sold in the United States is typically the close cousin Cassia which also is extracted as an effective essential oil with somewhat similar characteristics. True Cinnamon essential oil has more intense properties, is more costly, and some feel more effective. The tropical Cinnamon tree is common to Southeast Asia where the highest quality Cinnamon is grown. Essential oils can be processed from both the inner bark or the leaves of the tree resulting in much different properties. Hence it is important to identify which Cinnamon oil you are using. The oil referenced here is Cinnamon bark and is steam or water extracted from the inner bark of the tree. DōTerra Cinnamon is of the family Laureaceae, grown in Indonesia and distilled from the bark of the tree.

Typical Applications
 
Since Cinnamon is both an emotional and physical stimulant its benefits can be enjoyed in a number of ways. Diffusing or as a bath oil (only a small amount since it is very strong, ie hot) can invigorate and help and uplift. As a physical stimulant it can be mixed with a carrier oils and applied topically for sore and painful muscles and joints. Some suggest that for digestive problems that simply a drop of Cinnamon mixed with warm water and a sweetener then slowly sipped helps.
 
Precautions: Cinnamon can be irritating to the skin, especially sensitive areas, therefore dilute with a carrier oil and use a skin test before topical application.Consult professional advice before use by those who are pregnant or nursing mothers."
 
Properties

Antibiotic
Antidiarrhea
Antiseptic
Antispasmodic
Antiviral
Astringent
Disinfectant
Stimulant


Wellness Uses
Cold and Flu Season
Disinfect Living Areas




Common
Health Concerns

 Colds and Flu
Constipation
Cough
Diarrhea
Insect Bites
Stomach Ache



Application: Dilute 1:3 for topical and apply to area of concern, diffuse with caution, add to food and water, heavily diluted. 


 

Clary Sage
 
For aromatic, topical or dietary use.

"Clary Sage is often a favorite essential oil for women. Not only does it have a history of being effective at overcoming or helping to relieve problems inherent to women… (PMS, menstrual cramps, and menopause) but many have found it very effective as a antidepressant, mood balancer, stimulant and aphrodisiac.
 
Typical Applications



Clary Sage is often found effective when applied with massage. Use a carrier oils for lubrication and apply to the lower back, bottom of the feet or ankles for women’s issues, depression, and balancing. Use similar techniques for balancing teens or others going through puberty or a mental crisis. Apply morning and night up to three weeks to see obvious improvement. Also consider a tissue cup, inhaler, or cup and inhale to enjoy therapeutic benefits through Clary Sage aroma.




Research: An 8 year study looked at using essential oils during labor, to reduce stress levels, anxiety and pain. High levels of satisfaction among mothers and delivery team were reported for Clary Sage among other essential oils. Several ongoing studies are examining relief attributes of Clary Sage by women to soothe monthly discomfort associated with their menstrual cycles."
 
Properties  

Antibacterial
Antidepressant
Antifungal
Anti-inflammatory
Antiseptic
Antispasmodic
Astringent
Hormone stimulant


Wellness Uses
 



Aphrodisiac
Circulation
Depression/Balance
Frigidity
Gastric Spasms
Hormone Balance
Impotence
Mid-life Crisis
Muscle Spasms
Nervous Tension
Stress Relief
 
Common
Health Concerns

 Acne
Dandruff
Hair loss
Hot flashes
Hypertension
Menopause
Migraines/headaches
Painful menstruation
PMS
Whooping cough
Wrinkle
 


Application:  Apply neat (no dilution required) to problem area, diffuse into the air with an EO diffuser, add to food or water.



 

 
 
 
Clove
 
For aromatic, topical or dietary use.
 
"The Clove tree is native to Indonesia and is now grown in a number of tropical cLimes Madegascar being a preferred source. The 20 to 30 foot tree has large leaves and a pink flower. This flower, as a bud, is harvested and dried yielding the common dark reddish brown 'Clove' that we are familiar with. The term Clove is thought to come from the Latin word 'clavus' which refers to the shape of the Clove resembling a nail. There are multiple essential oils that can be either extracted from the dried bud, from the leaves, or from the stems of the tree. The bud produces the preferred essential oil as the others are very strong and much more prone to skin irritation. DōTerra Clove is distilled from the buds of plants that came from Madagascar.
Historically it has been known and used for millennia because of its antiseptic and analgesic properties. Its traditional uses include preparations for treating colds, digestive disorders, nausea, neuralgia, parasites, shingles, sinusitis, toothache and even a preservative for meat. Ayurvedic, Chinese, western herbalism and even modern dentistry consider Clove to be strongly antiseptic due to its high content of a compound known as eugenol.
Typical Applications
 
Clove's traditional use for dental pain is still helpful and is used and recommended by dentists. A few drops on a cotton ball and placed on the painful tooth, dry socket or gum area will provide relief for an hour or two. This application makes it a perfect addition for home dental emergency. Its analgesic properties also make it suitable, when diluted properly with a carrier oil, for help with muscle and joint pain. Further when mixed with water Clove can be used as an antiseptic spray to clean and disinfect surfaces and countertops. Adding one or two drops of Clove with carrier oil creates a stimulating disinfecting rinse. When diffused in to the air in small amounts, Clove is a powerful eliminator of airborne microbes.
 
Precautions: Since this oil has strong properties it should be used with care for topical applications. Avoid sensitive areas or those that have sensitive skin. Usually for oils that can cause skin irritation it is best to dilute in a carrier oil at a 1% dilution or less. Use with care during pregnancy."
 
 
 
 
Properties
 
Analgesic
Antibiotic
Antidepressant
Anti-inflammatory
Antiseptic
Diuretic
Disinfectant
Sedative

Wellness Uses
 
Cold and Flu Season
Dental Care
Disinfect Living Area
Emergency Salve
Insect Repellant
Skin Care
 
Common
Health Concerns
 
Acne
Constipation
Cuts and Wounds
Earache
Gum Problems
Headaches
Insect Bites
Nausea
Toothache
 


Application: Dilute 1:1 for topical and apply to problem area, diffuse with an EO diffuser, add to food or water.
 
 
 
Coriander
 
For aromatic, topical or internal use.
 
"This is another of the oils that has been well proven over time. It was used anciently by the Egyptians with some seeds being found in their tombs. The oil is extracted from the seeds yielding a light, almost colorless oil with a pleasant fragrance. This is in contrast to the crushed leaves of the plant which give a more pungent odor.
Anciently, the favored property of the oil and seed was the aid that it gave in digestion. Other cultures used it as well for nausea and digestive problems and as far-ranging problems as toothaches to hemorrhoids.
Typical Applications
 
The aroma is soothing to some and may be used for its soothing properties by diffusion. Consider as a rotation oil used with other oils to add variety for not only the aromatic benefit but the antibacterial properties as well.
It may be applied directly (neat) for help with muscle pain or for rheumatism and directly on the abdomen or back for digestive difficulties. For digestive difficulties, it may be taken internally mixed with water or other liquids with honey or agave added to sweeten the taste.
Coriander oil is rated as GRAS by the FDA and can be safely used for internal consumption."
 
 
Additional Information
 
"Coriander is distilled from the seed of Cilantro but they are not dried seeds, in order to get the largest amount of oils out of them. This also makes the smell of the Coriander oils fresh just like Cilantro. As opposed to opening a bottle of Coriander seed from your spice rack. The smell is much different." Dr. David Hill, 2009
 
 
 
Properties
 
Analgesic
Antibacterial
Antifungal
Anti-inflammatory
Antioxidant
Antispasmodic
Sedative
Stimulant
 

Wellness Uses
 
Calm & Stress Relief
Digestive
 
Common
Health Concerns
 
Anorexia
Flatulence
Indigestion
Menstrual pain
Nausea
Muscular pain
Stomach spasms
 


Application: Apply neat (no dilution required) to problem area, diffuse into the air with an EO diffuser, and/or add to food or water.
 
 

 
Cypress
 
For aromatic or topical use.
 
"The Cypress (cupressaceae family) is a conifer that is found all over the world. The variety used for essential oils commonly comes from southern Europe. The essential oil is extracted from the cones and leaves of the tree. Wikipedia reports this interesting information about these sturdy trees. The most ancient living Cypress is located in Abarkooh, near Shiraz. Its age is estimated to be approximately 4000 years. DōTerra Cypress interestingly come from the Isle of Crete. It is steam distilled from the leaf of the tree.
Typical Applications

Because Cypress is such a strong astringent in much of the literature it is recommended for concerns that take advantage of this property. This includes items such as skin care, hemorrhoids, varicose veins and excess perspiration or undesirable odor of the feet. Very well recommended for hemorrhoids using a wash or ointment using a 1 or 2% dilution is suggested. The same ointment can be used for varicose veins applied topically lightly to the area (no massage) with strokes toward the heart. For excess foot perspiration a foot bath again with a 1 or 2% dilution. Some mention Cypress benefiting the symptoms of asthma when diffused properly.

Precautions: Can be a skin irritant. Use a skin test. Use with care during pregnacy."


Properties

Antibacterial
Antibiotic
Antiseptic
Antispasmodic
Astringent
Diuretic
Disinfectant
Sedative


Wellness Uses
 
Calm and Stress Relief
Cold and Flu Season
Disinfect Living Area
Insect Repellant
Skin Care
  
Common
Health Concerns

 
Arthritic Pain
Asthma
Colds and Flu
Diarrhea
Excess Perspiration
Hemorrhoids
Menopause
Menstrual Problems
Muscle Pain
Sore Throat
Stress
Varicose Veins
 
 
 
 Application: Apply neat (no dilution required) to problem area, diffuse into the air with an EO diffuser.