Essential Oil Playdough

Today's blog post is perfect for summer vacation!  Yay!  Mix up this awesome playdough recipe, pour a cup of coffee, and watch your little ones have fun for hours!  

Enjoy!!

Have a great day!
Nikki

DIY Lavender Essential Oil Pillow Spray

I became an essential oil lover almost a year ago and the obsession doesn't look like it's coming to an end anytime soon!  Lavender is my all time favorite.  I seriously cannot get enough of it.  I use it in this DIY lavender essential oil pillow spray.  I also diffuse it at nighttime to help me relax for a better night's sleep, and I even made a sleepy time moisturizer to put on my daughter before bed.  You can buy pillow spray just like this at Bath and Body Works, but it's super expensive!

This is a great recipe to get started with essential oils.  It's super easy and only has 2 ingredients,  Oil and water.  I only use doTERRA essential oils because after hours of research I have become more comfortable with the fact that these essential oils are the purest and healthiest essential oils on the market today.  


Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 6 ounces of water
• 20 drops of doTERRA lavender essential oil

Directions:

• Fill the bottle with 6 ounces water
• Add essential oil
• Mix.  I usually shake the bottle before every use.  

Do you want to get started with doTERRA essential oils?

doTERRA June 2017 Monthly Promotion

Oh I love a good freebie!  Doterra has some great promos for the month of June.  As a reminder about how the monthly promotions work, if your order reaches one of the PV levels (125 PV, 200 PV), you will receive the items at that level for FREE!

Here is an example of a 125 PV order:

This is just a suggestion.  You can order any product you like as long as it reaches 125 PV to get the free bottle of Serenity. 

Here is a suggestion of a 200 PV order:

Remember that the Loyalty Rewards Program is doTERRA's optional monthly autoship program, where you can earn up to 30% back in FREE product credits every month!  Save or use your credits to purchase additional oils for free.  It's an excellent way to build your oil collection!

June 2017 Monthly Promotion Recap:

125 PV:

If you order at least 125 PV in June you will recieve a 5ml bottle of Serenity FREE

200 PV

If you order at least 200 PV in June you will recieve a bottle of Immortelle FREE.  If you order before June 15th, you will recieve BOTH the Serenity and the Immortelle

10% off

doTERRA's TerraZyme and PB Assist+ is 10% off for the entire month of June.  

(125 PV order)

(200 PV order)

Essential oils are such a great way to start kicking the chemicals out of your environment by using a much healthier alternative.  If you have still not taken the plunge into the world of essential oils and are ready to, hands down the Home Essential Kit or the Natural Solutions kit is the way to go.  Don't hesitate to contact me with any questions!

START HERE to shop Essential Oils

Happy June!  🌞🌞

Essential Oil Dog Ear Wash Spray for Ear Infections

One of the most common reasons dogs are seen by veterinarians is due to ear infections. However, you can safely and effectively treat ear discomfort at home with a healthy diet and using my Essential Oil Dog Ear Wash Spray for Ear Infections (avoiding the hassle, cost and toxic side effects)

WHAT ARE EAR INFECTIONS AN HOW DO DOGS GET THEM?

Canine ear infections are most often caused by bacteria or yeast overgrowth. Ear mites, growing hair, trapped water, tumor or foreign body in the ear canal can also lead to an overgrowth of bacteria or yeast. Infections may also develop when allergies, immune system disorders, hypothyroidism or an excessive amount of ear wax are present.

Frequent bathing, swimming and using incorrect cleansing methods can also lead to infections. Because a dog’s ear canals plunge downward then horizontally from the ear opening, it is difficult for caught debris or water to be released as it must work it’s way upward to escape this makes dogs especially susceptible to ear infections (even more so with floppy ear breeds).

Also a diet that contains grains (corn, wheat, soy, etc) and more than moderate amounts of carbohydrates can feed yeast infections and also cause chronic inflammation and damage to their immune system, setting a a predisposed dog for even more ear infections.

HOW CAN I TELL IF MY DOG HAS AN EAR INFECTION?

The following symptoms may indicate your dog has an ear infection:

• Ear Scratching
• Brown, yellow or bloody discharge
• Foul or offensive odor coming from the ear
• Redness
• Swelling
• Crusted or scabby skin on or near the ear
• Hair loss around the year
• Wiping or rubbing their ears on the floor, ground or furniture
• Head shaking or tilting their head
• Loss of balance, walking in circles
• Unusual eye movements
• Hearing loss

In conventional veterinary medicine, infected ears often treated with oral antibiotics, topical drugs or even surgery.  The problem is that none of these treatments is a cure for the root cause of the infection, they are only treating/masking the symptoms.  As soon as the dog eats the wrong food, goes for a swim, has a build up of wax or in some way triggers another occurrence, the infection is back and most often worse.  

Many ear infections, especially in puppies, stem from immune system imbalances caused by vaccinosis, a reaction to their vaccinations. They can cause mucous discharge in puppies. For example, it’s not uncommon for puppies to have discharge from their eyes or develop conjunctivitis after the distemper vaccine.

NOTE: If your dog develops a suspected ear infection for the first time, or if it is especially severe/painful, seek veterinarian care to rule out a tumor, polyp or some other issue that requires medical attention.

YEAST INFECTIONS:

An under active immune system can lead to a yeast overgrowth, because it can’t keep things in balance. The other end of the spectrum is an over active immune response where allergies are present, and can also attribute to a yeast overgrowth.

Dogs with allergies (a sign of a damaged/overactive immune system) are typically prescribed steroid therapy to shut off the immune systems’ response. This treatment does not address the underlying cause of the allergy it only stops the unwanted symptom. When your dog’s immune system is turned off with drugs, it can not do it’s job of regulation and balancing so a yeast overgrowth continues.

When conventional vets see dogs with allergies and possibly a secondary skin infection they will prescribe antibiotics. Antibiotics are well-known to destroy ALL GOOD BACTERIA while attempting to kill the bad bacteria. These antibiotics most often make a bad situation worse in the long run.

Another reason an allergic dog can end up with a yeast overgrowth, is he can develop an allergy to the yeast itself. Intra-dermal tests often reveal that a dog is having an allergic response to it’s own natural flora. This situation can be very problematic because the dog’s allergic response can affect his whole body. These dogs are often plagued with red, inflamed and irritated skin over their entire body.

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF A YEAST OVERGROWTH

A definitive diagnosis by a vet of a yeast infection is accomplished by either a cytology (looking at a skin swab under a microscope) or by culturing (submitting a sterile saw of the skin to a lab where the cells are grown and identified in a petri dish).

As a pet owner, you’ll be able to tell if your dog has a yeast overgrowth/infection just by it’s smell. Yeast has a very characteristic odor, some people think it smells like moldy-yeast bread, cheese popcorn or corn chips. In fact people often refer to a yeast infection of a dog’s paws as “Frito Feet.” It’s a pungent, musty unpleasant smell. Another sign of a yeast infected dog is intense itching.

HOW TO CURE A YEAST OVERGROWTH

It’s rare that a dog has yeast in just one spot, it will most likely be present in more than just one ear. Both ears, ears and paws, all four paws, if your dog has a reoccurring ear infections or if his entire body has some symptom of yeast overgrowth, you have no choice but to proactively address his diet.

Yeast, just like all other living organisms, need a source of energy. Carbohydrates are their fuel and by eliminating them from your dog’s diet you can effectively treat and prevent a yeast overgrowth. You will want to avoid any product containing honey, high fructose corn syrup, white/sweet potato, carrots, wheat, rice, corn – essentially feeding them a low carbohydrate (high fat & protein diet)

EAR MITES

Not every ear infection is an “infection” sometimes it’s a infestation. Ear Mites are tiny parasites that eat ear wax and oils in the ear and fill the ear canal with black waste. The problem is most common in dogs from pet shops, puppy mills, shelters or breeders with unclean environments.

Ear mites are species specific. Feline ear mites prefer cats’ ears and canine ear mites prefer dogs’ ears, however it is possible in a mixed pet household for both dogs and cats to be infected with the same type of ear mites. The ear mite bites to the ear tissue can also ulcerate the ear canal and lead to secondary infections.

HOW TO KEEP YOUR DOG’S EARS HEALTHY

Healthy ears start with a weekly maintenance exams and cleaning with cotton balls and cotton swabs. The canine ear canal isn’t straight like our ears canal and this makes it less likely to cause damage while cleaning (remember how the canine ear canal changes direction, it’s almost a 90 degree angle)

Lift the dog’s ear flap while holding a cotton ball between your thumb and index finger, push the cotton downward into the ear’s opening and scoop upward. Use a few dry cotton balls to clean out any normal waxy buildup.

Next put a cotton swab gently vertical into the ear canal until it stops, then scoop upward while rubbing it against the walls of the vertical canal. Repeat as needed depending on how much debris is in the ear.

After the excess debris is removed from the ear, lightly spray (3-4 times) the inside of your dog’s ear flap or spray a cotton ball with my Homemade Essential Oil Dog Ear Wash Spray (recipe at the end of this post) and wipe around and it to the ear canal.

You do not want to drip oils or cleaners into the ear canal because they will end up collecting on the ear drum where they can cause infection. By using a light spray mist you can lightly distribute the essential oil blend without over saturating the area.

ESSENTIAL OIL DOG EAR WASH SPRAY RECIPE:

In a 2 ounce glass spray bottle, combine:

• 15 drops Lavender Essential Oil 
• 15 drops Geranium Essential Oil
• 15 drops Frankincense  Essential Oil 
• 15 drops Basil Essential Oil
• 15 drops Arborvitae Essential Oil
• Fractionated Coconut Oil to fill the bottle about 3/4 of the way full

Shake well. Use as described above.

Shop essential oils HERE:  https://www.mydoterra.com/nikkilacic

Is It Safe to Ingest Essential Oils?

Dr. Joshua Yorgason, MD
Otolaryngologist (Ear, Nose and Throat Surgeon)
Member, dōTERRA Medical Advisory Board

Each type of oil contains a mixture of natural chemical compounds unique to that species of plant and to the environment in which the plant is grown. For thousands of years, humans have ingested plants in the form of food as well as plant parts and extracts as herbal health products and teas from leaves and flowers, which contain essential oils. One could argue that it should also be safe to ingest essential oils in small quantities, just as we have been doing when ingesting plants containing essential oils. Because they are produced naturally by plants, essential oils are found in naturally balanced mixtures. Then why is there an ongoing concern about the internal use of essential oils? Internal use can not only be very effective, but is also safe.

Oils first have an effect on local tissues. The local effect may be felt more strongly when applied internally compared to when applied to the skin because the nerves in the mucosa are closer to the surface, often more numerous, and can be more easily stimulated compared to the nerves in the skin.  Although the skin is thicker and seems to be less fragile than the mucous membranes, the reality is that similar to the skin the mucosa has many features that are protective, and therefore conducive to the use of essential oils. Like skin, the mucosa has many layers designed to protect the body against disease and toxic exposures. And similar to skin, the mucosa has an ability to constantly restore itself and to regenerate after harmful exposures, such as trauma from teeth or heat from foods that can cause ulceration. The mucosa heals an open sore very quickly, so it can resume its protective function. The mucosa also has thousands of mucous glands that secrete mucous to create a protective film over the tissues. The mucous is continually being produced and continually migrating as the cilia beat, limiting any local exposure. When essential oils contact the mucosa, they are absorbed to some degree at the initial point of contact, but much of the oil will be continually diluted by the mucous. Rapid absorption and constant dilution allow the oils to have a dramatic yet temporary effect, which explains why any sensation you have in the mouth or throat from essential oils taken internally is temporary. Because the mucosa is designed to be protective, essential oils can be safely used internally.

The premise of all of these discussions is that essential oils could be harmful when taken internally. However, studies suggest just the opposite. Essential oils may actually be protective to the mucosa. Many studies show that essential oils can have a positive effect when there is a problem with the stomach’s mucous membranes.* For example, limonene, found in citrus oils, was shown to help protect the stomach mucosa in a preclinical study.(3) This protective effect was shown without affecting normal stomach acid secretion, gastrin enzyme secretion, or antioxidant glutathione production.(3) Many other studies have also demonstrated similar effects.* (1–6)

Avoiding hot oils that may be irritating to the mucous membranes, using small single use amounts, or using less than the maximum daily amounts recommended, are all safe practices that can help us have confidence in using essential oils internally. If we are using the oils for a local effect, such as to soothe the mouth and throat, then the oils can be appropriately diluted. Internal use of essential oils may be the best method to help improve function of the gut and improve digestion, because the oils can get to the area of need. Taking essential oils internally may be a very effective method to get the oils to be absorbed into the body to promote health and wellness, for an overall soothing effect on the body, and for a calming effect on mood. Using the appropriate amount of oils in Veggie Caps or prepackaged in the appropriate amounts in soft gels can be an effective way to take essential oils internally so that they can be maximally absorbed by the gut for a whole body effect.

Click here for Bibliography

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

Patriotic Cupcakes with Lime Essential Oil

Servings: 18        Prep Time: 20 minutes        Cook Time: 30 minutes        Difficulty: Medium

Natural food-colorants are hard to come by and can sometimes add a funny flavor to your favorite treats. These patriotic cupcakes are dyed with freeze-dried fruit and add a delicious berry flavor to your already-loved cream cheese frosting. Let’s just say that each layer tastes like a strawberry, blueberry, or lime cheesecake. Need we say more? 

Ingredients:
2 ¾ cups cake flour 
1 2/3 cups granulated sugar 
1 tablespoon baking powder
¾ teaspoon sea salt 
¾ cup butter, softened 
4 large egg whites, plus 1 whole large egg
1 cup whole milk 
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1-2 drops Lime essential oil 

Naturally Colored Cream Cheese Icing: 

1 cup (2 sticks) butter, room temperature
16-ounce (2 packages) cream cheese, room temperature
5 cups powdered sugar 
1 pod’s worth of vanilla beans, or 1 tablespoon vanilla extract 
1 drop Lime essential oil
¼ cup freeze-dried strawberries
¼ cup freeze-dried blueberries

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. Put cupcake liners into muffin tins.
3. Mix dry ingredients on slow speed for 2 minutes until blended.
4. Add the soft butter and mix in until evenly crumbly.
5. Add egg whites one at a time, then add one whole egg, beating well after each addition to begin building the structure of the cake. Scrape down the sides of the bowl with each egg addition.
6. In a small bowl, whisk milk with vanilla and Lime essential oil. Add to the batter ⅓ cup at a time. Beat 1 to 2 minutes after each addition until fluffy. Scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl.
7. Pour batter into prepared pans and bake for 25 to 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Remove from oven and cool completely on a wire rack.

For the Cream Cheese Icing:

1. With an electric mixer, and using the paddle attachment, not the whisk, mix the butter and cream cheese together for about 3 minutes on medium speed until very smooth. Scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl to ensure even mixing.
2. Add vanilla bean pod or extract and mix. Slowly add powdered sugar. Keep adding until you get desired sweetness and thickness.
3. Divide frosting into three bowls.
4. In two separate plastic bags, add freeze-dried strawberries and blueberries. Using a rolling pin, roll on top of freeze-dried fruit until they are small crumbs.
5. Add crushed freeze-dried strawberries and blueberries into separate bowls and stir to combine.
6. In the third bowl of plain frosting, add 1 drop of Lime essential oil and stir to combine.
7.  Add each frosting into a separate pastry bag. If you don’t have pastry bags, you can put it into a plastic baggie and snip the corner of the bag.
8. Using a pattern of red, white, and then blue, gently pipe a small layer of each frosting onto cupcakes. 9. Once done, you should have a beautiful and extremely tasty patriotic cupcake. For an extra flair, add an American flag toothpick on top.

The Unity of Yoga and Essential Oils

Contributed by Brooke Perkins

Yoga is an ancient practice that originated in India thousands of years ago. The original meaning of the word yoga is believed to be “unity,” which is key to the overall goal of the practice: pushing one’s consciousness toward transcendence. Since the beginning, yoga has evolved and changed in many ways and throughout the years research has reaffirmed that this practice not only benefits physical health, but mental and emotional health as well.

Yoga has proven to be beneficial because of its three main components: asanas (physical postures), pranayama (breathing technique), and meditation. Oftentimes when we exercise we forget to incorporate these components. For instance, even though we are constantly breathing, it is not necessarily something we are consciously thinking about. In yoga, breath is the life of the practice; each movement is associated with a deep inhale or exhale. It is this state of active breathing that has been found to be highly beneficial, especially when it comes to our brain wave activity.

Modern day research has shown that yoga can help us manage stress, but why is that exactly? Studies have shown that yoga has the ability to decrease salivary cortisol, which is a known stress hormone.(1,2) Additional studies have also found that yoga-based relaxation training can help stabilize the function of the autonomic nervous system,(3) the system that controls our breathing, heartbeat, and digestive processes. Yoga also plays a significant role in decreasing heart rate. (4,5) One study demonstrated that not only is breathing beneficial for overall brain wave activity but so is meditation and posture-based poses. These yoga practices have been found to stimulate the amygdala and frontal cortex,(6) which house our memory and emotional reactions. As you can see all of these benefits can have a positive effect on our physical, mental, and emotional well-being.

Now that we’ve learned about some of the science behind yoga, it’s time to understand how essential oils can relate to this ancient practice. While modern day science has yet to thoroughly ascertain the benefits of essential oils and yoga when combined, there are still many benefits to be received. Much like yoga, the use of essential oils aims to support the well-being of the body, mind, and spirit. Research has shown that essential oils not only provide emotional benefits but physical benefits as well.

There are several studies that speak to the abilities of essential oils to help reduce anxious feelings (7-10) and provide an overall sense of well-being. Other research studies have shown that they can help maintain concentration.(11,12) Lastly, research has suggested that essential oils help promote feelings of clear breathing and open airways.(13)

As you can see, yoga and essential oils easily go hand-in-hand. You can, and should, enhance your current practice by using the two together. So whether you are a brand new or seasoned yogi, everyone can benefit from using essential oils during their practice.

Here are some tips on oils to include in your practice:

Apply InTune® at the beginning of class to help set your focus.

Rub a drop of dōTERRA Breathe® on your chest.

For a more invigorating practice, diffuse Wild Orange and Peppermint.

Diffuse Serenity® for a more calming practice.

Apply a drop of Frankincense or Sandalwood to your temples during meditation to help you relax and reduce stress.

Apply dōTERRA Balance® to the back of your neck during Savasana to help with relaxation.

Pictures taken at 3B Yoga Studio in Provo, Utah.

Bibliography