Peppermint

When I first learned about essential oils, I realized that they were the exact answer for which I had been looking, but didn't truly believe existed. As I saw more and more friends using them, I realized that there are many people who, just like I was, are looking for these natural solutions in their lives. Since then I have become passionate about educating and empowering others with these beautiful tools. I teach regular classes on what essential oils are and how to use them, and if you are interested in either attending a class or holding one for your network, please email me! You will leave feel uplifted and empowered as you experience first hand the powerful effects of essential oils.

One of my favorite experiences to share in my classes is an oil experience with peppermint, which illustrates the three ways to use essential oils: internally, aromatically, and topically. Not every brand is safe to use all three ways, so be sure to do your research beforehand. The experience goes as follows: Place a drop of peppermint essential oil in the palm of your hand. Take the thumb of the opposite hand, and dip it in the drop of oil. Then place your thumb on the roof of your mouth, and slightly inhale. Almost immediately you can feel your airways open, and your breath freshen.

Next rub the palms of your hands together, cup them over your nose (be careful not to get it too close), and breathe in. Again, you will feel your airways open, but you will also feel more awake and alert. Lastly, rub your neck and shoulders with the peppermint left on your hands to ease any tension in your muscles, and cool your body. I use this exercise when I have been sitting for a few hours in a class or in the car, and it helps give my body and attention span that extra boost.

Now that it is summertime and the temperatures are quickly rising, you will appreciate peppermint for its cooling effects on the body. We like to use it for an after sun spray with lavender and coconut oil, or in a glass of water to feel refreshed and rejuvenated.

What is your favorite way to use peppermint essential oil?

Wild Orange

Some essential oils have a tint to them, like wild orange. I wouldn't put it on my pillow like I do lavender, because it will stain the sheets. Wild orange is my four-year old's favorite. One Sunday, while we were at church, she was feeling a little whiny and tired. Trying to keep her calm and focused, I pulled the bottle of wild orange out of my purse, took off the cap, and waved it around her nose. Immediately she took it from me and started placing drops in her hands and smelling it. Her mood changed instantly, as if I had given her some candy. She wouldn't put the bottle down. She happened to be wearing a white dress that day, so I told her, "Be careful- it can stain your dress, and we won't be able to get it out," to which she replied, "But it will smell good!" (I got smart and filled a tiny sample roll-on vial with it so she could have her own and the oil wouldn't come out as quickly.)

The science of aromatherapy is nothing new. A certain scent can take you back to a specific time/place/memory in an instant. The smell of citrus is sweet and light, causing an uplifting effect. It doesn't take long for the aroma to put you in a better mood. For that reason, it is effective in helping to relieve stress. Simply place a drop in the palm of your hand, rub your hands together, cup them over your nose, and breathe in. We also like to pair it with peppermint in the diffuser to aid in focus.

Wild orange is also used in a protective blend with clove, cinnamon, eucalyptus, and rosemary. This blend has been my go-to lately, since we have been traveling. Everyone wants to feel their best self, especially when traveling, but switching climates, being exposed to different pollen/microbes and simply getting out of the normal routine can often have a negative effect on your body. I used this blend every night with my children on our last trip, and it was a life-saver. I could tell their little bodies needed a bit of an immunity boost, and the oil supported them well. What I loved most was that at the end of the trip, I was feeling better too! When you use essential oils to help others, you cannot help but be blessed from their healing power yourself.

What's YOUR favorite essential oil, and why?