Aromatherapy and massage go hand-in-hand. doTERRA oils make the entire massage experience a more effective and uplifting experience. We’ve organized the different massage oils by type of massage experience. If you are a professional masseuse, looking to give your loved one a massage, or need a massage yourself, you can pick the massage oils you will use based on present needs.
Aromatic/Mood massage
Most oils can have a positive impact on your mood and emotions. During massage, these oils are some of your best options for this purpose.
• AromaTouch®. Also known as the Massage Blend, AromaTouch is part of the AromaTouch® Technique created by Dr. David K. Hill, DC. Even outside of use in the AromaTouch Technique, the blend adds a comforting aromatic experience to any massage.
• Bergamot. A massage oil that is both calming and uplifting, dilute it with Fractionated Coconut Oil for best results.
• Citrus Bliss®. Combines the citrus oils Wild Orange, Lemon, Grapefruit, Mandarin, Bergamot, Tangerine, and Clementine for a sweet citrus aroma that will help inspire a positive mood.
• Clary Sage. To support healthy mood, particularly during menstruation or menopause. • ClaryCalm® Monthly Blend for Women. Used for the same purpose as Clary Sage. • Geranium. Excellent for a couple’s massage.
• Grapefruit. Uplifting and bright, use Grapefruit as a massage oil to brighten the day ahead. • Lavender. Safe for all ages, massage into the skin to promote calmness.
• Myrrh. Recognized as a spiritual oil, Myrrh promotes creativity and energy.
• doTERRA Serenity® Restful Blend. Helps to calm the mind and prepare for restful sleep.
• Ylang Ylang. Reduces effects of daily stress and leaves a soothing floral aroma.
Soothing massage
Soothing massage oils are perfect to use before or after a workout, or when you are feeling the after-effects of a long day of hard physical work.
• Deep Blue® Soothing Blend. A blend that is both cooling and comforting, it also comes as Deep Blue® Rub for a lotion-like application.
• Coriander. Apply to your skin directly after a workout.
• Cypress. Soothing when applied on its own, use with a citrus oil for an invigorating massage. • Eucalyptus. Helps to create feelings of open airways.
• Lemongrass. The perfect massage oil to use after an especially intense workout.
• Marjoram. Used to target specific tired or stressed muscles.
• PastTense® Tension Blend. Brings a cooling and soothing sensation similar to Deep Blue.
• Vetiver. A soothing and aromatic massage oil for feet after a long day.
• Wintergreen. Both soothing and warming, be sure to dilute.
Warming massage
Keep in mind that these massage oils are hot or warm oils that will always need dilution, either with Fractionated Coconut Oil or the doTERRA Hand & Body Lotion. To test for sensitivity, add small amount of diluted oil on a small patch of skin and monitor for up to 5 minutes for a reaction. • Cinnamon Bark Cassia Clove Stimulating/Energizing massage
Occasionally we all need a pick-me-up. A massage can also be an invigorating experience. For that energizing massage, put into practice either one of these massage oils, or use any citrus oil. • Ginger. Make sure to dilute with Fractionated Coconut Oil for easy application and to avoid sensitivity.
• Helichrysum. Promotes both vitality and energy.
Massage oil combinations
If you want to use more than one oil during the massage, there are some good combinations you can use for specific purposes. You can put a few drops of oil into Fractionated Coconut Oil all at once, or layer them on the body one at a time for the best effect.
• Basil, Geranium, and any citrus oils (uplifting)
• Basil and Wintergreen (stress-relief)
• Black Pepper, Marjoram, and Lavender (warming and soothing)
• Marjoram, Lavender, Peppermint, and Cypress (soothing)
• Lavender and Peppermint (soothing) Rosemary and Wintergreen(soothing)
• Neroli Touch, Lavender, Ylang Ylang, Marjoram (aromatic)
These are just a few ideas—nearly endless combinations and scents can make each massage as personalized as desired. What is your favorite massage oil?
How Hormones Influence Your Weight
How Hormones Influence Your Weight: All You Need to Know
Certain glands in your body — including the pituitary, thyroid, parathyroid, and adrenal glands — release hormones into your blood. From there, they travel to tissues and organs.
Hormones are involved in nearly every aspect of health, including sexual function, growth and development, mood, appetite, and metabolism.
For this reason, hormonal dysregulation — when your body releases too little or too much of a hormone — can significantly impact health, including body weight.
This article explains how hormones influence weight.
MaaHoo Studio/Stocksy United
Hormones are involved in fullness and hungerHormones regulate your appetite in order to help your body maintain energy levels.
Some hormones stimulate hunger. Others signal that you’ve had enough to eat, inhibiting food intake.
An imbalance in hormones involved in appetite control may lead to weight gain or weight loss.
Hunger hormones
When your body needs food, a series of steps take place in the endocrine and nervous systems to stimulate food intake.
For example, a cycle of contractions involved in the development of hunger — known as the migrating motor complex — is stimulated by gastrointestinal hormones, including motilin.
Here’s a breakdown of some of the main hormones, as well as other compounds, involved in appetite stimulation:
The following are some of the main hormones that induce fullness and reduce food intake:
SUMMARY
Hunger and satiety (fullness) signaling are complicated processes that involve many systems in your body. Hormones responsible for hunger and fullness include ghrelin, motilin, insulin, and leptin.
Hormones influence body weightFat storage and breakdown are strictly regulated by certain hormones in the body. Hormones also influence energy expenditure, or the number of calories your body burns on a daily basis.
For this reason, fluctuations in hormone levels may lead to weight gain or loss, as well as body fat accumulation in specific areas.
For example, the thyroid secretes hormones that are responsible for metabolism regulation.
When the thyroid gland is overactive, it releases too much thyroid hormone. This puts the body into a hypermetabolic state, where it burns more calories. This is known as hyperthyroidism.
Conversely, an underactive thyroid, characterized by low thyroid hormone levels, leads to less energy expenditure. This is known as hypothyroidism.
This is why people with hyperthyroidism may lose weight, while those with hypothyroidism may gain weight.
Insulin is another hormone that can affect body weight.
Cells need insulin to use glucose for energy and store it for later use in the form of glycogen. Insulin is also required for storing energy as fat and inhibiting fat breakdown to maintain body weight.
Keeping insulin levels within a standard range is critical. Chronically elevated insulin levels may lead to insulin resistance, where cells stop responding appropriately to insulin.
Human and animal studies indicate that this may lead to the impairment of hunger and fullness hormones, excessive fat uptake by organs like the liver, and compromised metabolism.
Cortisol is a glucocorticoid (a steroid hormone) that plays an important role in your body’s stress response. However, chronically elevated cortisol levels may lead to weight gain.
Cortisol redistributes fat to the abdominal region and increases appetite, especially the desire for energy-dense, highly palatable foods rich in fat and sugar.
Cortisol dysregulation is seen in those who are chronically stressed and people with Cushing’s syndrome, a condition that elevates cortisol levels.
Other hormones — including glucose-dependent insulinotropic peptide, leptin, asprosin, and estrogen — may influence body weight and fat distribution as well.
SUMMARY
Altered levels of thyroid hormones, insulin, cortisol, and other hormones may influence body weight and fat distribution.
Hormones can be altered by medical conditions, age, and weight gainHormone levels may be affected by many factors, including:
This is mainly attributed to reduction of a protein called sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG), which carries testosterone to the body’s tissues. The reduction of SHBG in obesity is caused by insulin resistance.
Low testosterone levels are associated with increased body fat, particularly in the abdomen, and reduced muscle mass in men.
Obesity is strongly associated with abnormalities in the fullness hormone leptin, including hyperleptinemia — or oversecretion of leptin — and leptin resistance, which occurs when the body stops responding to leptin appropriately.
Because leptin regulates fullness, decreased sensitivity to leptin may lead to excessive calorie consumption and weight gain.
Obesity is also associated with high levels of insulin and asprosin, a hormone that stimulates appetite.
People experiencing menopause are more likely to gain body fat, especially in the midsection.
This may be due to hormonal changes that take place during this stage of life, including a drop in estrogen levels, which is associated with reduced energy expenditure and metabolic dysfunction.
Additionally, medical conditions — including polycystic ovarian syndrome, hypothyroidism, Cushing’s disease, and diabetes — may also lead to hormonal dysregulation and influence body weight.
Weight gain is also common in people undergoing gender-affirming hormone therapy.
Keep in mind that hormone levels can be influenced by many other factors as well, including pregnancy, medication use, and more.
SUMMARY
Body fat levels, aging, medical diagnoses, and other factors can alter hormones that influence body weight.
Lifestyle and diet can affect hormonesYour lifestyle can significantly affect the hormones that influence your body weight.
Diet, activity levels, and chronic stress have all been linked to hormonal fluctuations.
Diet
The foods and beverages you consume on a daily basis can significantly affect your overall health, including hormonal health.
Studies show that diets rich in ultra-processed foods, added sugar, and refined carbohydrates can lead to hormonal dysregulation.
For example, diets high in added sugar — particularly sugar-sweetened beverages — have been linked to insulin resistance and elevated leptin levels.
Additionally, research suggests that diets high in protein and moderate or low in carbohydrates may have a more favorable effect on fullness and hunger hormones than higher-carb, lower-protein diets.
Diets rich in ultra-processed foods and added sugar may increase levels of hunger hormones like NPY and blunt the effect of fullness hormones like CCK. These effects may prompt overeating and weight gain.
What’s more, a diet high in ultra-processed foods increases exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals like phthalates.
These chemicals have been shown to alter hormones that regulate appetite, fullness, and food preferences as well as cause insulin resistance — all of which may influence weight gain.
There are many other ways in which diet can affect the hormones that influence weight gain.
In general, following a balanced diet rich in whole, minimally processed foods and low in ultra-processed foods and added sugar is best for overall health, including hormonal health.
Other factors that influence hormones
Sleep, activity, and stress can also affect hormones that influence body weight.
Getting enough sleep is essential for optimal health. Not getting enough sleep is associated with hormonal dysregulation.
Sleep deprivation is linked to insulin and leptin resistance and hunger hormone derangement, which may lead to increased appetite, decreased fullness, overeating, and weight gain.
Exercise may influence hormone levels as well.
Studies show that increasing physical activity can:
For this reason, managing stress is an important part of promoting optimal hormonal health and maintaining a body weight that’s healthy for you.
SUMMARY
Many factors may impact hormones that influence your weight. Following a balanced diet, getting enough sleep, staying active, and managing stress are evidence-backed ways to promote hormonal health.
The bottom lineHormones control hunger, fullness, metabolism, and fat distribution, all of which can influence body weight.
Studies show that diet, lack of sleep, activity levels, body fat percentage, stress exposure, and medical issues can all impact hormonal health.
Following a nutritious and balanced diet, getting enough sleep, diagnosing underlying medical conditions, managing stress, and engaging in physical activity are just some scientifically supported ways to promote healthy body weight and hormonal regulation.
- Satiety and hunger
- Direct effects on weight
- Factors that affect hormones
- Lifestyle and diet
- Bottom line
Certain glands in your body — including the pituitary, thyroid, parathyroid, and adrenal glands — release hormones into your blood. From there, they travel to tissues and organs.
Hormones are involved in nearly every aspect of health, including sexual function, growth and development, mood, appetite, and metabolism.
For this reason, hormonal dysregulation — when your body releases too little or too much of a hormone — can significantly impact health, including body weight.
This article explains how hormones influence weight.
MaaHoo Studio/Stocksy United
Hormones are involved in fullness and hungerHormones regulate your appetite in order to help your body maintain energy levels.
Some hormones stimulate hunger. Others signal that you’ve had enough to eat, inhibiting food intake.
An imbalance in hormones involved in appetite control may lead to weight gain or weight loss.
Hunger hormones
When your body needs food, a series of steps take place in the endocrine and nervous systems to stimulate food intake.
For example, a cycle of contractions involved in the development of hunger — known as the migrating motor complex — is stimulated by gastrointestinal hormones, including motilin.
Here’s a breakdown of some of the main hormones, as well as other compounds, involved in appetite stimulation:
- Ghrelin. Ghrelin is known as “the hunger hormone.” It stimulates the hypothalamus, an area of the brain responsible for hunger. In addition to driving food intake, ghrelin is also involved in the sleep-wake cycle, glucose metabolism, and more.
- Motilin. Motilin is a hormone produced in the small intestine. When you’re in a fasting state, motilin induces intestinal contractions that signal to the brain that you need food.
- Neuropeptide Y (NPY). NPY is a peptide — a short chain of amino acids — released by the brain to stimulate food intake. NPY production and release is regulated by hormones, including ghrelin and leptin.
- Agouti-related protein (AgRp). AgRp is another peptide produced by the brain. Its production is stimulated by ghrelin, and it works to increase food intake.
The following are some of the main hormones that induce fullness and reduce food intake:
- Cholecystokinin (CCK). CCK is a hormone released by cells of the small intestine in response to luminal nutrients, especially fat and protein. It reduces food intake by stimulating fullness centers in your brain, and it induces gallbladder contraction and pancreatic secretions that are necessary for digestion.
- Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1). GLP-1 is produced by intestinal cells in response to the ingestion of nutrients. GLP-1 slows stomach emptying and interacts with the brain to reduce food intake and increase fullness.
- Pancreatic peptide YY (Peptide YY). Peptide YY is another hormone made in the small intestine. It’s released in response to eating food and binds to receptors in the brain, decreasing appetite. It also slows the movement of food through the digestive tract.
- Leptin. Leptin is a hormone secreted by fat cells and other parts of the body. It’s primarily known as a fullness hormone. Leptin inhibits hunger-promoting peptides NPY and AgRp and stimulates fullness-promoting peptides, which leads to decreased appetite.
- Insulin. Insulin is a hormone that the pancreas secretes. It plays important roles in blood sugar regulation and energy balance. Insulin levels increase after a meal. Insulin interacts with the brain to reduce food intake.
- Obestatin. Obestatin is a hormone with an appetite-suppressing effect. It opposes ghrelin’s hunger-inducing effects. However, scientists are still studying obestatin, and more research into its effects on hunger and fullness is needed.
SUMMARY
Hunger and satiety (fullness) signaling are complicated processes that involve many systems in your body. Hormones responsible for hunger and fullness include ghrelin, motilin, insulin, and leptin.
Hormones influence body weightFat storage and breakdown are strictly regulated by certain hormones in the body. Hormones also influence energy expenditure, or the number of calories your body burns on a daily basis.
For this reason, fluctuations in hormone levels may lead to weight gain or loss, as well as body fat accumulation in specific areas.
For example, the thyroid secretes hormones that are responsible for metabolism regulation.
When the thyroid gland is overactive, it releases too much thyroid hormone. This puts the body into a hypermetabolic state, where it burns more calories. This is known as hyperthyroidism.
Conversely, an underactive thyroid, characterized by low thyroid hormone levels, leads to less energy expenditure. This is known as hypothyroidism.
This is why people with hyperthyroidism may lose weight, while those with hypothyroidism may gain weight.
Insulin is another hormone that can affect body weight.
Cells need insulin to use glucose for energy and store it for later use in the form of glycogen. Insulin is also required for storing energy as fat and inhibiting fat breakdown to maintain body weight.
Keeping insulin levels within a standard range is critical. Chronically elevated insulin levels may lead to insulin resistance, where cells stop responding appropriately to insulin.
Human and animal studies indicate that this may lead to the impairment of hunger and fullness hormones, excessive fat uptake by organs like the liver, and compromised metabolism.
Cortisol is a glucocorticoid (a steroid hormone) that plays an important role in your body’s stress response. However, chronically elevated cortisol levels may lead to weight gain.
Cortisol redistributes fat to the abdominal region and increases appetite, especially the desire for energy-dense, highly palatable foods rich in fat and sugar.
Cortisol dysregulation is seen in those who are chronically stressed and people with Cushing’s syndrome, a condition that elevates cortisol levels.
Other hormones — including glucose-dependent insulinotropic peptide, leptin, asprosin, and estrogen — may influence body weight and fat distribution as well.
SUMMARY
Altered levels of thyroid hormones, insulin, cortisol, and other hormones may influence body weight and fat distribution.
Hormones can be altered by medical conditions, age, and weight gainHormone levels may be affected by many factors, including:
- body weight
- medical diagnoses
- age
- estrogen
- testosterone
- ghrelin
- leptin
- obestatin
This is mainly attributed to reduction of a protein called sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG), which carries testosterone to the body’s tissues. The reduction of SHBG in obesity is caused by insulin resistance.
Low testosterone levels are associated with increased body fat, particularly in the abdomen, and reduced muscle mass in men.
Obesity is strongly associated with abnormalities in the fullness hormone leptin, including hyperleptinemia — or oversecretion of leptin — and leptin resistance, which occurs when the body stops responding to leptin appropriately.
Because leptin regulates fullness, decreased sensitivity to leptin may lead to excessive calorie consumption and weight gain.
Obesity is also associated with high levels of insulin and asprosin, a hormone that stimulates appetite.
People experiencing menopause are more likely to gain body fat, especially in the midsection.
This may be due to hormonal changes that take place during this stage of life, including a drop in estrogen levels, which is associated with reduced energy expenditure and metabolic dysfunction.
Additionally, medical conditions — including polycystic ovarian syndrome, hypothyroidism, Cushing’s disease, and diabetes — may also lead to hormonal dysregulation and influence body weight.
Weight gain is also common in people undergoing gender-affirming hormone therapy.
Keep in mind that hormone levels can be influenced by many other factors as well, including pregnancy, medication use, and more.
SUMMARY
Body fat levels, aging, medical diagnoses, and other factors can alter hormones that influence body weight.
Lifestyle and diet can affect hormonesYour lifestyle can significantly affect the hormones that influence your body weight.
Diet, activity levels, and chronic stress have all been linked to hormonal fluctuations.
Diet
The foods and beverages you consume on a daily basis can significantly affect your overall health, including hormonal health.
Studies show that diets rich in ultra-processed foods, added sugar, and refined carbohydrates can lead to hormonal dysregulation.
For example, diets high in added sugar — particularly sugar-sweetened beverages — have been linked to insulin resistance and elevated leptin levels.
Additionally, research suggests that diets high in protein and moderate or low in carbohydrates may have a more favorable effect on fullness and hunger hormones than higher-carb, lower-protein diets.
Diets rich in ultra-processed foods and added sugar may increase levels of hunger hormones like NPY and blunt the effect of fullness hormones like CCK. These effects may prompt overeating and weight gain.
What’s more, a diet high in ultra-processed foods increases exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals like phthalates.
These chemicals have been shown to alter hormones that regulate appetite, fullness, and food preferences as well as cause insulin resistance — all of which may influence weight gain.
There are many other ways in which diet can affect the hormones that influence weight gain.
In general, following a balanced diet rich in whole, minimally processed foods and low in ultra-processed foods and added sugar is best for overall health, including hormonal health.
Other factors that influence hormones
Sleep, activity, and stress can also affect hormones that influence body weight.
Getting enough sleep is essential for optimal health. Not getting enough sleep is associated with hormonal dysregulation.
Sleep deprivation is linked to insulin and leptin resistance and hunger hormone derangement, which may lead to increased appetite, decreased fullness, overeating, and weight gain.
Exercise may influence hormone levels as well.
Studies show that increasing physical activity can:
- improve the body’s sensitivity to insulin
- increase testosterone levels in men
- reduce leptin levels in people with overweight and obesity
- improve response of fullness hormones after meals
For this reason, managing stress is an important part of promoting optimal hormonal health and maintaining a body weight that’s healthy for you.
SUMMARY
Many factors may impact hormones that influence your weight. Following a balanced diet, getting enough sleep, staying active, and managing stress are evidence-backed ways to promote hormonal health.
The bottom lineHormones control hunger, fullness, metabolism, and fat distribution, all of which can influence body weight.
Studies show that diet, lack of sleep, activity levels, body fat percentage, stress exposure, and medical issues can all impact hormonal health.
Following a nutritious and balanced diet, getting enough sleep, diagnosing underlying medical conditions, managing stress, and engaging in physical activity are just some scientifically supported ways to promote healthy body weight and hormonal regulation.
Pets and Essential Oils
As essential oil users, we have come to use oils to benefit so many different areas of our lives. It is only natural, then, to want to benefit our furry friends as well. However, current research on using oils with our pets, from dogs and cats to horses, is limited.
This is why consulting your veterinarian regardless of what you read online is so key. Your vet is a trained professional in the unique physiology of animals, and what’s more, they know your pet. They know its specific medical history, and they understand how their body works differently. In every case, your veterinarian should be your first point of contact before using any oil with your furry friend.
This being said, there are a few things we know when it comes to our companion animals:
Cats lack the enzyme glucuronidase and are not able to break down the phenolic compounds in essential oils. Therefore, cats should not be given essential oils orally and any topical use should be carefully considered. The high-phenol oils and citrus oils should be especially avoided. (High-phenol oils include oils such as Clove, Basil, Oregano, Thyme, Cinnamon, and Cassia.)
Each animal’s weight and size plays a role. How much your pet will be sensitive to an oil seems to be related to their size or weight. Larger animals such as some dogs and horses seem to respond well to topical application in the limited studies that have been done. Never use oils with puppies or kittens.
If a plant is known to be toxic to a pet, chances are the oil is also. For example, eucalyptus is toxic to cats if ingested, and it stands to reason that the oil of the same plant is as well. By the same reasoning, many cats hate the smell of citrus because it can be toxic to them if they eat it. Not all cats react to citrus, but it is always best to be cautious and avoid using citrus essential oils with cats as well.
Start small, always dilute, use always in moderation. If you are going to use an oil topically after consulting your vet, keep it to a small area, dilute heavily with carrier oil, and do it rarely.
Generally avoid internal use. Because of the lack of research, we do not recommend using oils internally for companion animals. There is some research about using oils internally with horses, but we do not generally recommend this approach at this time. When Diffusing
When it comes to diffusing around animals, we are not aware of any scientific literature about diffused essential oils having any specific effect on cats or other companion animals in general.
There is, however, a small amount of third-party research on aromatherapy benefits for dogs and horses, though further research is still needed. For example, a dog rescue shelter diffused a combination of Lavender and Chamomile oil and observed an increase of resting and a decrease of barking. However, when Peppermint and Rosemary oils were diffused, researchers observed more activity [1]. The calming effect of Lavender oil was also observed in horses. After exposing the horses to a highly stressful situation, researchers diffused either Lavender oil or water near the horse’s nose. They then measured and compared the horses’ heart rates to the normal baseline rates. In the results of this study, when horses were exposed to Lavender oil after experiencing stress, their heart rates were significantly lower than control measurements [2].
But in the everyday world, we suggest following these general guidelines when diffusing around your pets:
Ensure there is plenty of ventilation in the room you are diffusing in. Never enclose your pet and a diffuser in a tight space, and always give them a way to leave.
Don’t run the diffuser for a long amount of time on full blast. When diffusing around an animal diffuse for only a few minutes at a time.
Make sure the diffuser is secure. If the diffuser falls or the animal drinks water from the diffuser it could be potentially harmful. Remember too that you can always diffuse oils in a room you can keep your pets out of temporarily. While it is necessary to be cautious, you should still be able to diffuse most oils around your household pets. After consulting your vet, and then diffusing, we recommend that you pay attention to what your pet’s body language is telling you and go from there.
[1] L. Graham, D. L. Wells, and P. G. Hepper, “The influence of olfactory stimulation on the behaviour of dogs housed in a rescue shelter,” Appl. Anim. Behav. Sci., vol. 91, no. 1–2, pp. 143–153, May 2005.
[2] C. E. Ferguson, H. F. Kleinman, and J. Browning, “Effect of Lavender Aromatherapy on Acute-Stressed Horses,” J. Equine Vet. Sci., vol. 33, no. 1, pp. 67–69, Jan. 2013.
Supporting Arthritis with Omega-3 Essential Fatty Acids
In the 19th and early 20th centuries, mothers often fed their children a spoonful of cod liver oil. Her reasons were based on hundreds of years of folk medicine.
Rickets, a disease caused by a lack of vitamin D in the body, was common prior to the mid 1950s. The disease struck very young children, softening and deforming their bones. They’d outgrow it within a few years, but by then, the damage was already permanent. As folk medicine proved later through medical science, deriving important nutrients from certain foods is a useful complementary treatment method.
Cod liver oil’s connection with rickets wasn’t scientifically proven until the 1930s. It is also rich in Vitamin A (very good for bones, teeth and eyes) and omega-3 fatty acids.
Toward the end of the 20th Century, researchers began studying fish oil. Unlike cod liver oil, fish oil doesn’t contain vitamins A and D, but it’s much richer in omega-3 fatty acids than its predecessor. Omega-3s are excellent for heart health — and, as it turns out, for arthritis.
The two types of omega-3 fatty acids found in fish oil are DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) and EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid). EPA and DHA can reduce inflammation, which causes swelling and pain. Some studies have shown that the acids might also suppress the body’s immune system. Together, these factors can make fish oil a potential weapon against arthritis.
EPA and DHA can also help prevent heart attacks by making it harder for the blood to clot. They help lower blood triglyceride levels and blood pressure, too.
Cod liver oil is an excellent supplement as it contains omega-3s and vitamins A and D. It’s made from cod livers that are cooked and then pressed for the oil.
Fish oil supplements are made from a variety of oily-fleshed, coldwater fish, including mackerel, tuna, herring, salmon, and cod liver. They may also contain whale or seal blubber in them. Fish oil has only a small combination of vitamins and minerals, such as iron, calcium, B-vitamins, and vitamins A and D.
Today we have doTERRA's xEOmega Essential Fatty Acids, which contain a balance of omega 3, 6 and 9 fatty acids in either a combination of sea and land sources or an all vegan version derived strictly from plants.
The term “arthritis” is derived from two Greek words: “arthro,” meaning “joint,” and “itis,” which means “inflammation.” There are 100 different types of arthritis, and all of them affect the joints. The most common is osteoarthritis. It attacks the tough, flexible cartilage in and around the joint. Caused mainly by wear-and-tear, osteoarthritis generally affects older people.
The second most common form of arthritis is rheumatoid arthritis (RA). RA is a chronic autoimmune disease that causes the immune system to attack the joint’s synovial capsule and other soft tissues. Both types of arthritis cause inflammation and pain in the joints.
In order for the omega-3 fatty acids to work against arthritis, it’s necessary for an arthritis patient to consume a fairly large quantity of it each day. xeOmega dose is 4 little gel caps each day. They are a third the size of traditional fish oil capsules.
But taking too much vitamin A and D, which are found in such high amounts in cod liver oil, can be toxic. For the purpose of treating arthritis, xeOmega is the safer choice. Most people can take xeOmega—even large doses—without trouble.
15 Best Essential Oils For Face & Skin + 4 Skin Care Recipes To Try
Using essential oils for beautiful, healthy and vibrant skin is nothing new. Ancient Egyptians were a culture known for its understanding of the value of essential oils for healing, gorgeous skin and aromatherapy. There is evidence of oils being used over 5,000 years ago in ancient Egypt.
Understanding Your SkinDid you know that skin is the largest organ? If you are an adult, you have about eight pounds and 22 feet of skin on your body. Skin is a waterproof, insulating shield that protects the body from extreme temperatures, sunlight and harmful chemicals. cool stuff for guys cool stuff to buy cool stuff to make cool stuff for kids
It produces antibacterial substances to prevent infection and makes vitamin D for conversion to calcium for bone health. Skin is also packed with nerves and transmits information to the brain. Skin is truly an amazing and complex organ and one which deserves attention and care.
Aging SkinWe have three layers of skin and they all age in a somewhat different manner. The outside layer, also known as the epidermis is what forms a physical barrier for our skin. The dermis, or the middle layer, contains collagen and elastin. These provide strength, firmness, and elasticity. The deepest layer of skin is where you find connective tissue and fat. cool stuff for guys cool stuff to buy cool stuff to make cool stuff for kids
As we age, so does our skin. A number of things happen that cause our skin to lose its youthful vibrancy. One of the first things that happen as our skin gets older is that collagen begins to break down. This is the support structure that keeps our skin firm. We also begin to lose subcutaneous fat – another support structure. This means our skin is thinner and it is more difficult to heal when we get a skin injury.
Because of the loss of subcutaneous tissue, some things become more prominent such as pores, hair follicles, and oil glands. Skin also becomes more sensitive to light and heat as skin structures become weaker.
Other things you may notice as you age are the fact that you seem to have more freckles and liver spots. These are the impacts of the sun. It is so important to protect yourself from the sun as you age.
While all this may sound dismal, there are ways to reduce the signs of aging and promote healthy skin. One of the best tools for this job is essential oils.
Dry SkinDo you suffer from dry, cracked or flaky skin? Millions of people suffer from dry skin which is characterized by a lack of enough water in the epidermis layer of the skin. Older persons are more prone to dry skin due to a lack of natural oils and lubricants. Some environmental factors such as humidity and temperature play a role in how much moisture the skin retains.
Essential oils can help replenish and nourish dry and flaky skin. These essential oils can help the body make more skin oil and calm dry and inflamed skin.
Other Skin ConditionsThere are a number of things that can go wrong with our skin, conditions that change the appearance of our skin and can cause irritation and pain. Here are some common skin conditions. >
1. Research shows that lavender essential oil helps the body produce three powerful antioxidants, glutathione, catalase, and superoxide dismutase. These antioxidants can reduce the damage caused by free radicals.
Lavender oil mixed with frankincense oil along with a carrier oil such as sweet almond oil, can help lighten age spots, common with aging. cool stuff for guys cool stuff to buy cool stuff to make cool stuff for kids
Lavender also possesses powerful anti-inflammatory properties that can reduce the irritation and inflammation associated with skin conditions such as acne, eczema burn, and even insect bites.
2. Frankincense essential oil. Aging can cause our skin tone to become uneven and create splotches. For sun spots, age spots and uneven skin tone, frankincense essential oil is an excellent choice. Frankincense oil, from the resin of the Boswellia sacra tree, can also help strengthen skin and can be used any place your skin sags such as under your eyes, your neck or abdomen.
3. German Chamomile essential oil. Chamomile essential oil has a calming and soothing impact on skin. It has a high content of azulene which gives it a blue color and also has anti-inflammatory and skin calming properties making it a good choice to remedy dry skin. Chamomile has the ability to penetrate deep into skin layers and promote moisture retention. This essential oil is a great choice for people with sensitive skin. cool stuff for guys cool stuff to buy cool stuff to make cool stuff for kids
4. Tea tree essential oil. Tea tree oil is powerfully antiseptic and can battle against a variety of bacterial infections. It also has antiviral and antifungal properties making it an effective remedy for conditions such as ringworm, warts and toenail fungus. Used widely to treat pimples and acne, tea tree oil also contains a mild sedative and can be used topically for corns, boils, cuts, burns, and calluses. A little tea tree oil will quickly relieve the pain and inflammation from bug bites.
5. Geranium essential oil. Geranium oil has a beautiful floral scent and is used extensively in skin care products. It balances sebum secretion which makes it useful for both dry and oily skin. This aromatic oil contains antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties. When applied to scars, geranium oil has the ability to accelerate healing and fade scars. Geranium oil can help with acne, dermatitis and other skin conditions by reducing inflammation, fighting bacteria and calming skin. Apply diluted geranium oil to bug bites to stop pain and itching and promote healing. Because geranium oil is an astringent it can minimize the appearance of wrinkles by tightening the skin.
6. Rosemary essential oil. Rosemary has an alluring scent and is a warming oil which has a stimulant effect on the body. Although used often in hair care, rosemary is also highly beneficial to the skin. It has antimicrobial and antiseptic properties which make it an effective remedy for eczema, dermatitis, oily skin and acne. As an all over massage oil, rosemary helps relieve dryness and promotes healthy, toned skin.
7. Peppermint essential oil. Peppermint oil is a bit of a paradox, it is cooling and refreshing and also warming and stimulating. It softens, tones and calms skin and has potent antiseptic and antimicrobial properties. Research published in Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine found that peppermint oil is an effective remedy for blackheads, dermatitis, inflammation, sunburn, ringworm, scabies and oily skin.
8. Lemon essential oil. Lemons are refreshing, invigorating and toning for the skin. The antiseptic, antimicrobial and antibacterial properties make this oil a hydrating remedy for nourishing damaged skin. Research shows that lemon oil is able to reduce cell and tissue damage caused by free radicals. This is due to the oil powerful antioxidant and anti-aging effects.
The antiseptic and astringent properties of lemon make it appropriate for oily skin and skin infections such as acne and boils. The astringent properties of lemon oil help combat wrinkles.
9. Neroli essential oil. Neroli has calming and uplifting properties and a very sweet floral fragrance. This oil also contains a chemical called citral that helps cells regenerate. Because of this it can heal stretch marks, balance oil production and shrink the appearance of pores while still leaving the skin moisturized
10. Rose essential oil. Rose oil has a sweet aroma and numerous properties that are great for skin. It cools and tones and has a positive impact on the vascular system. It can help remedy broken capillaries, reduce inflammation, itching, and dryness while reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
11. Myrrh essential oil. The anti-inflammatory properties of myrrh essential oil benefit aging skin. This oil helps to improve firmness, skin elasticity, and tone while reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, in addition, myrrh helps remedy sun damage, rashes, eczema and chapped skin.
12. Patchouli essential oil. This oil has powerful antiseptic, antibacterial, and antifungal properties and can help skin conditions such as dermatitis, psoriasis, acne, and eczema. In addition, patchouli is wonderful for aging skin and can promote new cell growth while smoothing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
13. Tangerine essential oil. Tangerine essential oil has antifungal and antiseptic properties that make it an excellent choice to battle acne. This essential oil is also known for its ability to reduce the signs of premature aging and increase the regeneration of cells and collagen production.
14. Cypress essential oil. If you cut yourself, it is great to have some cypress essential oil on hand. Because of its potent antiseptic properties, cypress oil can heal external and internal would and also prevent infections. A study published in the Complementary and Alternative Medicine found that cypress oil has antimicrobial properties that can keep bacteria at bay. Because of this, it is a great oil to remedy pimples and skin eruptions.
15. Carrot seed oil. Carrot seed oil offers potent antioxidant protection that helps skin renew quickly. It works well for skin that has been stressed by the environment. It has a pleasing, rich and earthy aroma and moisturizing capabilities.
DIY Essential Oil Recipes For Face & Skin. Here are just a few ways to use essential oil for healthy and vibrant skin.
DIY Under Eye Cream. This homemade eye cream made with frankincense essential oil helps to moisturize skin and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Ingredients
Combine aloe, coconut oil and essential oils in a food processor. Process until smooth.
Store in a glass jar in the refrigerator.
Use daily as needed to relieve dryness and promote moist and vibrant skin.
Where To Buy Essential Oils
If you want to experience the skin care benefits of essential oils, it’s imperative to choose oils that are 100% pure and free of additives and adulterants. Many products that claim to be “essential oils” are simply “fragrance oils” with none of the benefits.
Our favorite and most trusted brand of essential oils is doTERRA. Contact us for more information on how you can get these Certified Pure Therapeutic Grade Essential Oils from us.
Understanding Your SkinDid you know that skin is the largest organ? If you are an adult, you have about eight pounds and 22 feet of skin on your body. Skin is a waterproof, insulating shield that protects the body from extreme temperatures, sunlight and harmful chemicals. cool stuff for guys cool stuff to buy cool stuff to make cool stuff for kids
It produces antibacterial substances to prevent infection and makes vitamin D for conversion to calcium for bone health. Skin is also packed with nerves and transmits information to the brain. Skin is truly an amazing and complex organ and one which deserves attention and care.
Aging SkinWe have three layers of skin and they all age in a somewhat different manner. The outside layer, also known as the epidermis is what forms a physical barrier for our skin. The dermis, or the middle layer, contains collagen and elastin. These provide strength, firmness, and elasticity. The deepest layer of skin is where you find connective tissue and fat. cool stuff for guys cool stuff to buy cool stuff to make cool stuff for kids
As we age, so does our skin. A number of things happen that cause our skin to lose its youthful vibrancy. One of the first things that happen as our skin gets older is that collagen begins to break down. This is the support structure that keeps our skin firm. We also begin to lose subcutaneous fat – another support structure. This means our skin is thinner and it is more difficult to heal when we get a skin injury.
Because of the loss of subcutaneous tissue, some things become more prominent such as pores, hair follicles, and oil glands. Skin also becomes more sensitive to light and heat as skin structures become weaker.
Other things you may notice as you age are the fact that you seem to have more freckles and liver spots. These are the impacts of the sun. It is so important to protect yourself from the sun as you age.
While all this may sound dismal, there are ways to reduce the signs of aging and promote healthy skin. One of the best tools for this job is essential oils.
Dry SkinDo you suffer from dry, cracked or flaky skin? Millions of people suffer from dry skin which is characterized by a lack of enough water in the epidermis layer of the skin. Older persons are more prone to dry skin due to a lack of natural oils and lubricants. Some environmental factors such as humidity and temperature play a role in how much moisture the skin retains.
Essential oils can help replenish and nourish dry and flaky skin. These essential oils can help the body make more skin oil and calm dry and inflamed skin.
Other Skin ConditionsThere are a number of things that can go wrong with our skin, conditions that change the appearance of our skin and can cause irritation and pain. Here are some common skin conditions. >
- Dermatitis
- Sunburn
- Eczema
- Psoriasis
- Bug Bites
- Cold Sores
- Hives
- Acne
- Shingles
- Ringworm
- Warts
- Burns
- Always dilute an essential oil in a carrier oil before topical application. A 2% dilution is advisable.
- Do not apply essential oils on or near the eyes, lips or mucous membranes.
- If irritation occurs, discontinue use immediately.
- Avoid the use of essential oils on broken, irritated, damaged, or diseased skin.
- Some essential oils increase photosensitivity. Do not use these oils before going out in the sun.
- If pregnant or nursing, educate yourself on which oils you can use safely. If in doubt, don’t use an oil. This guide will help you safely use essential oils while pregnant.The great thing about essential oils is that they are highly versatile and can be beneficial for a number of skin conditions. Here are the best essential oils for face and skin and how they can benefit a variety of skin conditions and improve the overall health and vitality of your skin.
1. Lavender essential oilBesides its enchanting aroma, lavender oil is a circulatory stimulant that has soothing moisturizing properties that increases blood flow to the skin. This improves the skin’s appearance because it increases the delivery of nutrients and oxygen. cool stuff for guys cool stuff to buy cool stuff to make cool stuff for kids
Free radicals are very unstable and reactive molecules that cause damage to living cells. Here are some of the places that free radicals come from: - Pollutants
- Smog
- Stress
- Lack of sleep
- Lack of exercise
- UV rays
- Illness
- Bad food
- Tobacco
- Alcohol
1. Research shows that lavender essential oil helps the body produce three powerful antioxidants, glutathione, catalase, and superoxide dismutase. These antioxidants can reduce the damage caused by free radicals.
Lavender oil mixed with frankincense oil along with a carrier oil such as sweet almond oil, can help lighten age spots, common with aging. cool stuff for guys cool stuff to buy cool stuff to make cool stuff for kids
Lavender also possesses powerful anti-inflammatory properties that can reduce the irritation and inflammation associated with skin conditions such as acne, eczema burn, and even insect bites.
2. Frankincense essential oil. Aging can cause our skin tone to become uneven and create splotches. For sun spots, age spots and uneven skin tone, frankincense essential oil is an excellent choice. Frankincense oil, from the resin of the Boswellia sacra tree, can also help strengthen skin and can be used any place your skin sags such as under your eyes, your neck or abdomen.
3. German Chamomile essential oil. Chamomile essential oil has a calming and soothing impact on skin. It has a high content of azulene which gives it a blue color and also has anti-inflammatory and skin calming properties making it a good choice to remedy dry skin. Chamomile has the ability to penetrate deep into skin layers and promote moisture retention. This essential oil is a great choice for people with sensitive skin. cool stuff for guys cool stuff to buy cool stuff to make cool stuff for kids
4. Tea tree essential oil. Tea tree oil is powerfully antiseptic and can battle against a variety of bacterial infections. It also has antiviral and antifungal properties making it an effective remedy for conditions such as ringworm, warts and toenail fungus. Used widely to treat pimples and acne, tea tree oil also contains a mild sedative and can be used topically for corns, boils, cuts, burns, and calluses. A little tea tree oil will quickly relieve the pain and inflammation from bug bites.
5. Geranium essential oil. Geranium oil has a beautiful floral scent and is used extensively in skin care products. It balances sebum secretion which makes it useful for both dry and oily skin. This aromatic oil contains antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties. When applied to scars, geranium oil has the ability to accelerate healing and fade scars. Geranium oil can help with acne, dermatitis and other skin conditions by reducing inflammation, fighting bacteria and calming skin. Apply diluted geranium oil to bug bites to stop pain and itching and promote healing. Because geranium oil is an astringent it can minimize the appearance of wrinkles by tightening the skin.
6. Rosemary essential oil. Rosemary has an alluring scent and is a warming oil which has a stimulant effect on the body. Although used often in hair care, rosemary is also highly beneficial to the skin. It has antimicrobial and antiseptic properties which make it an effective remedy for eczema, dermatitis, oily skin and acne. As an all over massage oil, rosemary helps relieve dryness and promotes healthy, toned skin.
7. Peppermint essential oil. Peppermint oil is a bit of a paradox, it is cooling and refreshing and also warming and stimulating. It softens, tones and calms skin and has potent antiseptic and antimicrobial properties. Research published in Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine found that peppermint oil is an effective remedy for blackheads, dermatitis, inflammation, sunburn, ringworm, scabies and oily skin.
8. Lemon essential oil. Lemons are refreshing, invigorating and toning for the skin. The antiseptic, antimicrobial and antibacterial properties make this oil a hydrating remedy for nourishing damaged skin. Research shows that lemon oil is able to reduce cell and tissue damage caused by free radicals. This is due to the oil powerful antioxidant and anti-aging effects.
The antiseptic and astringent properties of lemon make it appropriate for oily skin and skin infections such as acne and boils. The astringent properties of lemon oil help combat wrinkles.
9. Neroli essential oil. Neroli has calming and uplifting properties and a very sweet floral fragrance. This oil also contains a chemical called citral that helps cells regenerate. Because of this it can heal stretch marks, balance oil production and shrink the appearance of pores while still leaving the skin moisturized
10. Rose essential oil. Rose oil has a sweet aroma and numerous properties that are great for skin. It cools and tones and has a positive impact on the vascular system. It can help remedy broken capillaries, reduce inflammation, itching, and dryness while reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
11. Myrrh essential oil. The anti-inflammatory properties of myrrh essential oil benefit aging skin. This oil helps to improve firmness, skin elasticity, and tone while reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, in addition, myrrh helps remedy sun damage, rashes, eczema and chapped skin.
12. Patchouli essential oil. This oil has powerful antiseptic, antibacterial, and antifungal properties and can help skin conditions such as dermatitis, psoriasis, acne, and eczema. In addition, patchouli is wonderful for aging skin and can promote new cell growth while smoothing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
13. Tangerine essential oil. Tangerine essential oil has antifungal and antiseptic properties that make it an excellent choice to battle acne. This essential oil is also known for its ability to reduce the signs of premature aging and increase the regeneration of cells and collagen production.
14. Cypress essential oil. If you cut yourself, it is great to have some cypress essential oil on hand. Because of its potent antiseptic properties, cypress oil can heal external and internal would and also prevent infections. A study published in the Complementary and Alternative Medicine found that cypress oil has antimicrobial properties that can keep bacteria at bay. Because of this, it is a great oil to remedy pimples and skin eruptions.
15. Carrot seed oil. Carrot seed oil offers potent antioxidant protection that helps skin renew quickly. It works well for skin that has been stressed by the environment. It has a pleasing, rich and earthy aroma and moisturizing capabilities.
DIY Essential Oil Recipes For Face & Skin. Here are just a few ways to use essential oil for healthy and vibrant skin.
DIY Under Eye Cream. This homemade eye cream made with frankincense essential oil helps to moisturize skin and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Ingredients
- 10 drops frankincense essential oil
- 1-ounce pure aloe vera gel
- 1-ounce organic shea butter
- 1-ounce melted organic coconut oil
- ½ teaspoon vitamin E oilDirectionsCombine all ingredients in a small bowl. Mix well.
Store in a glass jar with a lid.
Use around your eyes in the morning and evening – being sure not to get any in your eyes.
Invigorating Face Scrub
Use this refreshing face scrub a few time a week for radiant skin.
Ingredients - 1 ¼ cups coconut sugar
- ½ cup coconut oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Zest from ½ lemon
- 5 drops peppermint essential oil
- 5 drops lemon essential oilDirectionsMix all ingredients together in a small bowl.
Apply to a clean face in a circular motion.
Rinse and pat dry.
Save the rest in a glass jar with a lid.
Skin Softening Body Wash
This body wash is delicate enough to use all over your body and smells wonderful.
Ingredients - 3 cups water
- ¼ cup steel cut oats
- ¼ cup liquid castile soap
- 12 drops lavender essential oil
- 1 teaspoon vitamin E oil
- 2 teaspoons avocado oilDirectionsBoil the water and pour over top of the oats. Let it sit for 2 hours and strain the water off. Set the water aside and discard the oats.
Mix the castile soap, essential oil, vitamin E oil, and avocado oil with a whisk.
Fill your foaming soap dispenser 10% with the soap/oil mixture.
Fill the rest of the dispenser with the oatmeal infused water.
All Purpose Skin SolutionThis skin solution is great for all over moisturizing and can help heal conditions such as eczema while reducing fine lines and wrinkles.
Ingredients - 1 tablespoon aloe vera gel
- 1 tablespoon organic coconut oil
- 6 drops lavender essential oil
- 3 drops frankincense essential oil
Combine aloe, coconut oil and essential oils in a food processor. Process until smooth.
Store in a glass jar in the refrigerator.
Use daily as needed to relieve dryness and promote moist and vibrant skin.
Where To Buy Essential Oils
If you want to experience the skin care benefits of essential oils, it’s imperative to choose oils that are 100% pure and free of additives and adulterants. Many products that claim to be “essential oils” are simply “fragrance oils” with none of the benefits.
Our favorite and most trusted brand of essential oils is doTERRA. Contact us for more information on how you can get these Certified Pure Therapeutic Grade Essential Oils from us.
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