KevinandAmyJo.com | a natural family wellness guide

Have you ever used Essential Oils?  We’ve been using them as a part of our family wellness plan for many years now.  I think the first time I was introduced was when Kevin suggested using Frankincense and Myrrh on our new baby’s umbilicus after she was born.  He said that it would prevent the possibility of infection etc…  That was all it took for me to dive into researching more about the what, how and why of Essential Oils!  Today, we use them almost every day and what a blessing it is to have something natural – be so effective!

So, WHAT are Essential Oils? >> (this is an excerpt from Young Living)

“Essential oils are the natural, aromatic volatile liquids found in shrubs, flowers, trees, roots, bushes, and seeds.  The distinctive components in essential oils defend plants against insects, environmental conditions, and disease. They are also vital for a plant to grow, live, evolve, and adapt to its surroundings.  Essential oils are extracted from aromatic plant sources via steam distillation, and are highly concentrated and far more potent than dry herbs.

While essential oils often have a pleasant aroma, their chemical makeup is complex and their benefits vast—which makes them much more than something that simply smells good.

Historically, essential oils have played a prominent role in everyday life.  With more than 200 references to aromatics, incense, and ointments throughout the Bible, essential oils are said to be used for anointing and healing the sick. Today, essential oils are used for aromatherapy, massage therapy, emotional health, personal care, nutritional supplements, household solutions, and much more.”

Here is a list of some of our most favorite Essential Oils >>

Lavender Oil ~ relieves stress and anxiety (eg. tension headaches), is a natural antiseptic, pain reliever, treatment for minor burns, sunburns, cuts, scrapes, bee stings and bug bites.

Eucalyptus Oil ~ relieves symptoms of influenza, coughs, stuffiness, nose/throat/ear congestion, natural antiseptic  and analgesic (reduces pain).   Breathe in, apply to chest/back and use in a vaporizer.

Peppermint Oil ~ may enhance memory, reduce sleepiness, relieve sore muscles and increase blood circulation.  It leaves a refreshing feeling of renewal and increased energy.  It can be used as a flavoring for making homemade ice cream and/or toothpaste.

Tea Tree Oil ~ antiviral, antibacterial, antifungal, antiseptic…used for relief of many skin conditions including infections, dandruff, lice, mites etc..)  It can be added to Citronella Oil to be used as a natural bug repellent.

Angelica Oil ~ relieves irritated skin, bruises, psoriasis, accumulation of toxins, arthritis, gout, rheumatism, water retention, bronchitis, coughs, anemia, anorexia, flatulence, indigestion, fatigue, migraine, nervous tension and stress related disorders….whew!  That’s a good one!

Orange Oil ~ antisepti c, anti-depressant, antispasmodic, anti-inflammatory, diuretic and calming oil.  This oil may also be used alongside Tea Tree Oil and/or Lemon Oil for natural household cleaning!

How To Use >>

General Use – Place 2-3 drops in the palm of your hand.  Rub hands together and breathe in slowly.  Rub oil through your hair, apply to chest, arms and body.  Apply along the spinal cord and to the bottoms of your feet, where the pores are most plentiful!

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