Mint Essential Oil

Mentha arvensis (a species of mint) goes by many names including podina, pudina, yerba buena, corn mint, field mint, Japanese mint, and wild mint. These names differ mainly according to cultures and languages. The one thing that remains constant across cultures and languages is the agreement on the potency and popularity of its essential oil — mint essential oil.

 

If your interest is piqued by this wonderful essential oil, read on now to discover more about the oil.

 

What is Mint Essential Oil Made Of?

 

Mint essential oil is derived from the leaves of Mentha arvensis. Mentha arvensis is a leafy perennial herb that grows up to around 60 cm and is native to the temperate regions of Europe, western and central Asia, and North America.

 

The plant is often found in heaths, wet marshes, ditches, and moist prairies — essentially wherever there is adequate moisture. Besides that, the plant also produces white, pink, or pale purple flowers and has fuzzy leaves where the essential oil is derived from.

 

These fuzzy leaves are harvested somewhere between May and August. Only well-matured leaves should be harvested as the half-mature ones lack the all-important minty aroma.

 

How is Mint Essential Oil Extracted?

 

Mint essential oil is extracted by steam distilling the leaves of Mentha arvensis. This is where hot steam is pushed through the leaves to release the essential oil within. The steam is then cooled and condensed into a mixture of essential oil and water. The two are then separated resulting in the pure mint essential oil you see in stores.

 

Benefits of Mint Essential Oil

 

1.      Treats and relieves digestive issues

 

Mint essential oil has long been used extensively for digestive purposes. The oil is known to provide relief for indigestion, diarrhea, colic, dyspepsia, loss of appetite, abdominal discomfort, flatulence, and stomachache.

 

This is partly due to the oil’s carminative (aids in relieving flatulence) properties. However, menthol, an active ingredient in the essential oil, also helps with certain digestive issues. For example, it pacifies intestinal and stomach linings while its cooling property treats ulcers.

 

To help with digestive issues, add three or four drops of the mint essential oil into your warm bath. In addition to that, you can also mix two drops of the essential oil with a carrier oil (sesame oil, perhaps) and gently massage your abdomen and stomach with the blend.

 

2.      Calms nausea and morning sickness

 

Mint essential oil has the potential to calm and relieve nausea as well as morning sickness in the early stages of pregnancy.

 

So, the next time you feel the waves of nausea washing over you, get your hands on some mint essential oil and inhale deeply.

 

3.      Relieves inflammation, irritation, and pain

 

Additionally, the richness of menthol in mint essential oil helps to relieve conditions like arthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, pain, numbness, soreness, ache, irritation, and inflammation.

 

Most of these conditions can be addressed by applying the essential oil topically. So, mix a few drops of the mint essential oil with a carrier oil — such as coconut oil, jojoba oil, and almond oil. Then, massage the mixture onto the affected area.

 

4.      Treats and heals respiratory problems

 

Mint essential oil can potentially help with everything from cold and cough to more serious conditions like bronchitis and asthma. A large part of this is, again, because of the menthol in the essential oil.

 

Mint essential oil provides a multi-faceted solution for respiratory problems. For instance, mint essential oil’s minty and cool scent is used in vaporizers to help unclog nasal passage due to phlegm. Besides that, it is also used as an expectorant to loosen mucus and phlegm deposits in order to expel them from the respiratory tract. On top of that, the oil can also very easily treat sinus congestion and clear the nasal passages.

 

For some reprieve from the discomfort and pain of these conditions, add two to three drops of the essential oil to a few drops of carrier oil. Rub the blend all over your chest, back, throat, and forehead.

 

5.      Filled with antibacterial and antifungal properties

 

Apart from the above, mint essential oil also acts as a natural antiseptic agent to treat various skin conditions. This includes wounds, scars, eczema, burns, scabs, ringworms, and insect bites.

 

The rich menthol in the oil helps to relieve any pain associated with these conditions, too.

 

To take advantage of mint essential oil’s antibacterial and antifungal properties, try this: dilute the essential oil with a little bit of coconut oil and dab onto the affected area with a cotton ball.

 

6.      Reduces fever

 

If you feel a fever heading your way, you know it is time to turn to mint essential oil to reduce the high body temperature.

 

The febrifuge (ability to reduce fever) and diaphoretic (ability to increase perspiration) properties of the essential oil can help to reduce fever by releasing body heat through sweat.

 

Mix two drops of mint essential oil with coconut oil and rub the combination on the soles of your feet to bring down the temperature. Make sure to also include plenty of bed rest.

 

7.      Maintains healthy skin

 

Additionally, many people also swear by this oil for healthy skin because of its excellent skin cleansing properties.

 

Simply add a drop or two of mint essential oil to your serum, moisturizer, or lotion to contain breakouts, treat pimples, remove blackheads and blemishes, hydrate dry skin, and treat inflammation.

 

No, there is no mistake here. Mint essential oil truly does all of the above for a healthier and clearer complexion.

 

8.      Deodorizes the house and laundry

 

Fresh and uplifting, there is no better scent for your laundry. Simply add a few drops of the oil to your detergent or dryer ball.

 

Besides that, you can also deodorize and remove odors from your house by diffusing a few drops of this fresh essential oil.

Mixing Mint Essential Oil with Other Essential Oils

 

Minty, fresh, and cool, mint essential oil’s familiar aroma blends well with woodsy essential oils like sandalwood and cedarwood.

Additionally, the oil also complements spice oils such as basil, black pepper, and clove.

 

For double doses of freshness and energy, try pairing mint essential oil with citrus essential oils. For example, lemon, orange, and grapefruit essential oils are excellent with mint essential oils.

 

If floral scents are right up your alley, mint essential oil’s middle note goes well with lavender oil.

 

Other-Good-to-Know Information

 

Unfortunately, there are some side effects associated with mint essential oil for certain people. However, this is typical of most essential oils.

 

Be wary of ingesting mint essential oil as it can cause some issues such as stomach upsets and heartburn.

 

Some people may also develop allergic reactions to the oil such as redness, hives, itching, and blisters. Hence, always try the oil out with a patch test first. Apply a drop of mint essential oil to your inner forearm and cover it up with a bandage. If you do not see any adverse reaction after 24 hours, the oil is safe to use.

 

Is Mint Essential Oil Right for You?

 

Cool, minty, and refreshing, you likely are already familiar with the scent of mint essential oil. Hence, look at its benefits and uses to decide if it is the essential oil for you.

 

 

 

 

 

Harmful Chemicals To Look Out For In Hand Sanitizer And Why

Hand sanitizer has quickly become a staple in homes around the world, as many countries continue to protect themselves from the coronavirus that is affecting our day-to-day lives. However, with such frequent use, you want a hand sanitizer that is effective at killing germs, safe for reducing our risk of exposure to sick-causing germs, and perfect for natural skincare purposes.
Below you will find a list of some of the more harmful chemicals to look out for in hand sanitizer and why you should avoid them as much as possible.

Triclosan
This is a synthetic pesticide that is sometimes added to personal care items and soap products. It is said to have high antimicrobial properties, but it does not have any power when it comes to killing viruses that cause colds and cases of flu. This chemical has been linked to hormone disruption, cancer, liver damage, and even the development of super germs.

Fragrance And Phthalates
You can typically find these two together as they often come hand in hand. Fragrances are allergens, hormone disruptors, and known carcinogens. They can trigger asthma attacks as well. Phthalates are often used in cosmetics and other products and may cause damage to the liver, kidneys, lungs, and reproductive system.

Parabens
Parabens are the preservatives commonly used in cosmetics and other substances that don’t promote natural skin care. They are what stops fungus from growing in products and help extend their shelf life. However, they have also been associated with a number of different health risks, including endocrine disruption, cancer, skin irritation, and reproductive toxicity.

Ethanol
Effective hand sanitizers contain at least 70 percent alcohol. However, higher levels of industrial-grade ethanol can cause skin and eye irritation as well as other health problems that can prove to be dangerous. Even isopropyl alcohol is a neurotoxin that is a skin irritant too. Significant levels of a carcinogen known as acetaldehyde have been found in ethanol used by some companies when making hand sanitizers.

Choosing A Safe Hand Sanitizer
When choosing a hand sanitizer, make sure to read the label and avoid the dangerous chemicals we’ve mentioned. Several hand sanitizers have already been recalled due to the high levels of ethanol they contain.
To find a safe hand sanitizer, learn as much as you can about their ingredients. Utama Spice has a hand sanitizer gel that has proven to be an effective way of protecting yourself against sickness-causing germs. It contains 70 percent grain alcohol and lemon essential oil that can kill germs in seconds.

Meta: Before buying any hand sanitizer, familiarize yourself with its ingredients to ensure that it is effective and safe for use on your skin.

Lemongrass Essential Oil

Lemongrass essential oil (Cymbopogon citratus) is another scent that you would be familiar with if you were a fan of Southeast Asian cuisines. As its name suggests, lemongrass essential oil shares the scent of lemon essential oil: fresh and citrusy. However, lemongrass oil is considerably sweeter and milder than lemon essential oil.

 

Keep reading to learn more about the versatility of lemongrass essential oil and its many benefits for your body, pet, and home.

 

What is Lemongrass Essential Oil Made Of?

 

Lemongrass essential oil comes from the leaves and stalks of the lemongrass plant — a fast-growing grassy plant. The plant is a genus of about 55 other species of grasses in the Poaceae family of grasses.

 

Native to tropical and subtropical regions (like India, Southeast Asia, and Oceania), the plant is now abundantly available all over the world.

 

How is Lemongrass Essential Oil Extracted?

 

Lemongrass is harvested somewhere between six to nine months after it is planted. The grass is usually harvested in the morning on a dry day. Once harvested, the lemongrass leaves are either dried in a conventional dryer or under the sun. Ideally, the drying period should be short to ensure that the leaves retain their color and aroma.

 

The lemongrass leaves are then steam distilled — resulting in the lemongrass essential oil that ranges in color from pale yellow to amber. This oil emanates a fresh, sweet, and citrusy smell with earthy undertones.

 

Benefits of Lemongrass Essential Oil

 

1.      For stress-relief and to combat fatigue

 

Lemongrass essential oil’s light and comforting lemony scent with earthy undertones can help to relieve stress. Place a drop of the essential oil onto your pillow or rub a drop or two of the essential oil between your palms and inhale deeply.

 

If you are using the oil to fight fatigue, mix one or two drops of the essential oil with a carrier oil like coconut oil. Gently massage the mixture on your forehead and behind the ears.

 

2.      Helps you to catch some z’s and manages insomnia

 

Besides that, lemongrass essential oil’s soothing and calming nature also helps with insomnia. This is courtesy of the oil’s calming effect on the mind which, in turn, has a sedation effect that brings about a better quality of sleep.

 

For a good night’s sleep, add a drop or two of the essential oil into your lotion and massage it all over the body. Alternatively, a cup of lemongrass tea could also do the trick.

 

3.      Treats fungal infections

 

Studies have also shown that the compounds in lemongrass essential oil have strong antifungal properties against various strains of fungus. For example, lemongrass essential oil may help to prevent the growth of Candida albicans — a type of fungus that causes yeast infections and can affect the skin, genitals, throat, and mouth.

 

Besides that, the oil’s citral and limonene components also kill fungal and bacterial infections including athlete’s foot. In this case, mix a few drops of lemongrass essential oil with a carrier oil (such as coconut oil) and apply it to the affected area a few times a day or as needed.

 

4.      Promotes a healthy digestive system

 

For hundreds of years, people have sip lemongrass tea to help with stomach issues such as diarrhea, gastric pain, ulcers, and indigestion. If you are not one for tea-sipping, opt for lemongrass essential oil, instead.

 

Just like the tea, the essential oil can help relieve gas, diarrhea, indigestion, and other stomach issues. Simply dilute two drops of lemongrass essential oil with a carrier oil. Then, gently massage the blend into the stomach and abdomen area.

 

5.      Relaxes sore and aching muscles

 

Sores, aches, knots, pulled muscles, and sprains can all be assuaged and managed by rubbing the affected area with a combination of lemongrass essential oil and a carrier oil.

 

6.      Potent anti-inflammatory properties

 

Inflammation can lead to many conditions including cancer, diabetes, arthritis, cardiovascular diseases, and asthma.

 

Here are some examples of how lemongrass essential oil can help to fight these conditions. Limonene, a compound in the essential oil, is anti-carcinogenic. Then, you also have luteolin (a naturally-occurring flavonoid) to help the body kill cancer cells and fight infections. Another main component in lemongrass essential oil, Citral, meanwhile, inhibits the growth of cancer cells.

 

7.      For overall skin health

 

Additionally, lemongrass essential oil’s antiseptic and astringent properties are especially helpful in eliminating dirt, grime, and bacteria in the skin. To treat acne with the oil, mix a drop of lemongrass with a little bit of carrier oil and dab the mixture onto your face.

 

Besides that, lemongrass oil also regulates and controls oil production to prevent clogged pores and dry flaky skin. To take advantage of this benefit, switch out your toner for the essential oil. Another option is to add a drop of lemongrass oil to your toner, serum, or moisturizer.

 

Not only is the oil great for the face but you can also use lemongrass essential oil as an all-natural substitute to commercial deodorants. All you have to do is add a couple of drops of the oil to your body lotion.

 

8.      Improves hair and scalp conditions

 

Works wonders for your hair, lemongrass essential oil addresses everything from itchy scalp and dandruff to hair loss and lack of shine.

 

To treat itchy scalp and fight dandruff, mix a few drops of lemongrass oil with coconut oil. You can also replace the coconut oil with half a cup of apple cider vinegar and a cup of distilled water for a more potent concoction. Massage the mixture onto your scalp and leave it on for approximately half an hour to an hour. Rinse off for shiny and unbelievably soft locks.

 

9.      Effective insect and flea repellent

 

As a result of its high concentration of citral and geraniol, lemongrass essential oil is popularly used to repel bugs including mosquitoes and ants. Before heading outdoors, apply a few drops of the oil to your clothes. The oil can also be applied directly to the skin once it is diluted with a carrier oil.

 

Plus, you can even use the lemongrass oil on your pet to kill fleas. Just apply a few drops of the oil on your furkid’s collar. Alternatively, dilute a few drops of the oil with water in a spray bottle and spray it on your pet’s fur.

 

Mixing Lemongrass Essential Oil with Other Essential Oils

 

Lemongrass essential oil blends well with citrus oils such as lime, sweet orange, and lemon. Apart from that, lemongrass’ fresh aroma beautifully complements floral scents like lavender, ylang-ylang, and patchouli, too.

 

For a relaxing blend, the combination of lemongrass and sandalwood works like a charm. If you are looking to brighten and energize your day, give the mixture of lemongrass, orange, and peppermint essential oils a try. On the other hand, if you are desperately in need of a remedy for headache, a blend of lemongrass, peppermint, and lavender essential oils is it.

 

Other Good-to-Know Information

 

Lemongrass essential oil is potent and highly concentrated. So, while the oil is generally safe to use, it may cause an allergic reaction or skin irritation in some people. Therefore, a skin patch test should be done before using this (or any) essential oil.

 

Is Lemongrass Essential Oil Right for You?

 

With its versatile uses, lemongrass essential oil has a very cult following and is a must-have essential oil for many. Try out the essential oil for yourself and you might find that this is the essential oil for you.

Some Hand Sanitizers Are Being Recalled: Here’s Why and What You Need To Know

Amid a pandemic and a time when handwashing and hand sanitizer are important to our health, the news of recalled hand sanitizers hits us. Six different types of hand sanitizers sold in Canadian stores have recently been recalled due to the addition of industrial-grade ethanol. People were told to discontinue using those hand sanitizers immediately and seek out medical attention if any health concerns arise from them.

List Of Hand Sanitizers To Avoid
According to Health Canada, these are some of the hand sanitizers you should avoid. Keep in mind this list is not extensive and includes only a few of the recently recalled products.
Eltraderm Hand Sanitizer Made By Eltraderm Limited
Contract Packaging Distributions Inc. Hand Sanitizer
Gel 700 Hand Sanitizer From Nature’s Own Cosmetic Company Inc.
Sanilabs Hand Sanitizer 70% Ethanol Made By Sanilabs, Inc.

Dangers Of Industrial-Grade Ethanol
Technical- or industrial-grade ethanol is acetaldehyde. This is often found in concentrations of between 800 and 1000 ppm. It is considered possibly carcinogenic for humans, and it can be of either fermentation or synthetic origin. There are many impurities found during the fermentation process.
When the risk was assessed for these ethanol levels in hand sanitizer, it was found that the substance wouldn’t necessarily result in acute toxicity, high levels of irritation, or sensitivity. Still, there are significant concerns regarding potential carcinogenicity because of increased exposure to acetaldehyde.
The risk associated with using these hand sanitizers is considered a Type II health hazard. This means that these products can cause temporary adverse health effects with the probability of more severe health consequences with prolonged use.

Factors Regarding Exposure
When determining the level of risk, there are several factors to consider, including the number of applications per day, the absorption rate, and the vapor pressure. Some people, especially those in healthcare settings, may use hand sanitizer more than 100 times per day.
Ethanol is a skin penetration enhancer, which means the absorption rate of the acetaldehyde might be much higher, especially with prolonged and frequent use.

Moving Forward
Discontinued use of hand sanitizers containing high levels of industrial-grade ethanol is recommended. Check updated lists of companies that sell safe hand sanitizers, and use them as directed to avoid any negative health effects.
Instead of traditional hand sanitizers that may be harmful to you, you should opt for a hand sanitizer that is made of natural ingredients, 70 percent grain alcohol, and essential oils such as lemon. This has been found to kill 99 percent of common germs in just 15 seconds. Other essential oils can also be used in hand sanitizers.

Meta: Before using any kind of hand sanitizer, you need to check its ingredients to see if it is safe for continued use on your skin.

Lemon Essential Oil

Nicknamed “liquid sunshine”, lemon essential oil’s (or Citrus limon) fresh and tangy aroma is one that most of us are familiar with or, at least, can easily recognize.

 

From exfoliating skin, promoting positive mood, and disinfecting the house to repelling insect, sanitizing toothbrush, and eliminating dandruff — lemon essential oil does it all and more.

 

Let’s dig deeper into this tantalizing essential oil and learn more about its extensive uses and benefits.

 

What is Lemon Essential Oil Made Of?

 

Lemon essential oil is sourced from the peel of the Citrus limon fruit. Compact and evergreen, lemon trees are often considered to be a cross between bitter orange and citron. They were initially grown only for decorative purposes but once the fruits’ versatile uses were discovered, the rest was history.

 

Lemon trees are now grown all over the world but they are native to Asia. Generally, lemon trees grow up to approximately 6 meters with fragrant pink or white flowers. The fruits itself, the lemons, are green and turn yellow as they ripen.

 

In comparison to other citrus plants, lemon trees are a tad bit more sensitive when it comes to temperature. Anything lower than 13 ᵒC and the trees become dormant. True to their nickname of “liquid sunshine”, lemon trees need full sunlight to grow and thrive.

 

How is Lemon Essential Oil Extracted?

 

Lemon essential oil is obtained from the peels (also referred to as skins or rinds) of fresh lemons using cold expression. For a yield of 1 lb., you will need about 1000 lemons. Once extracted, the lemon essential oil is yellowish-green in color and has a watery consistency. It also gives off that familiar crisp and refreshing scent.

 

Benefits of Lemon Essential Oil

 

1.      Part of your skincare routine

 

If you are looking for a crystal-clear complexion that glows in good health, look no further than lemon essential oil. The essential oil’s astringent and detoxifying properties clear away dirt, grime, and any impurities. Besides that, its antiseptic properties also keep the skin clear of bacteria that cause breakouts.

 

Add a drop or two of lemon essential oil to your cleanser for blemish-free skin. If you require something more purifying, make your own exfoliant scrub with the essential oil. Combine four to five drops of the essential oil with some ground oatmeal and water. You can switch out the water with a carrier oil like coconut oil, too. Apply the scrub to your face to exfoliate.

 

2.      As a mood booster

 

Want to start the day right? Diffuse lemon essential oil to set the tone for the day. The oil’s chemical makeup helps to promote positive moods. So, add four to five drops of lemon essential oil to your diffuser now. Or, you can also place two to three drops of the essential oil in your hands, rub them against each other, and inhale the invigorating scent to boost mood and concentration.

 

3.      Promotes healing of wounds

 

Chock-full of vitamin C as well as various antioxidants and antimicrobial properties, lemon essential oil is a great addition to your first aid kit. Make full use of this healing oil when you have cuts, minor wounds, and scrapes.

 

A 2016 animal study showed that the essential oil even helped to speed up the healing of tissue infected with mange.

 

Simply cleanse the wound, cut, or scrape with diluted lemon essential oil to quickly disinfect and sanitize it.

 

4.      Sanitizes your toothbrush

 

Add a drop of lemon essential oil to your toothbrush to sanitize and deodorize it. Do this once every week. As another option, you can also dilute five to six drops of the essential oil with some water and soak your toothbrush in this solution.

 

5.      Freshens up your clothes

 

If you are a fan of the refreshing and heady fragrance of lemon essential oil, you can envelop yourself in this scent all day long. Just add a few drops of the essential oil to the final cycle of your laundry. Not only will your clothes (and washing machine) smell amazing, the oil will also help to freshen up your laundry.

 

6.      Purifies the air in your home and removes odors

 

Now, lemon essential oil truly shines when it comes to sprucing up your home. Purify the air in your home by diffusing a few drops of the essential oil. This will help to eliminate odors and leaves your home smelling fresh and clean.

 

7.      Excellent natural cleaning agent

 

Lemon essential oil is the answer to achieving spotless surfaces in your kitchen and bathroom. Mix the essential oil with water in a spray bottle and use it as a cleaning solution. Spray the solution on countertops, sink, drawers, cupboards, and anything else that could do with some cleaning and purifying.

 

To increase the efficacy and potency of the solution, switch out the water with vinegar.

 

8.      Removes grease

 

Whether it is grease from working in the garage or grease from cooking, lemon essential oil can take care of it all. Add a drop or two of lemon oil to your soap and give your hands a good scrub to get rid of the grease. This solution will work to remove grease and stains from dishes, too.

 

9.      Effortlessly removes glues and sticky residues

 

There is nothing more annoying than peeling off the price tag of a new item only to find a sticky residue left behind on the surface. Well, lemon essential oil can make sure that this annoyance is a thing of the past. The oil can help you to easily and effectively remove labels and glues or adhesive without leaving behind a mess.

 

10.  Maintains and polishes wood and leather furniture

 

A wipe-down with lemon essential oil will leave your wood furniture shining and replace lost moisture in the wood. Simply mix a few drops of the essential oil with olive oil in a spray bottle. Then, proceed to spray the solution on the wood and rub in circular motions with a soft cloth.

 

Make sure, however, to test this combination on a discreet spot before applying it to the entire furniture.

 

On top of that, lemon essential oil’s preserving qualities also help to preserve leather furniture and prevent the leather from splitting. Soak a piece of cloth in lemon essential oil and wipe down the leather furniture to bring back its natural shine and beauty.

 

Mixing Lemon Essential Oil with Other Essential Oils

 

Lemon essential oil’s bold and refreshing aroma blends well with most other essential oils. This includes cedarwood, chamomile, eucalyptus, frankincense, geranium, peppermint, sandalwood, and ylang-ylang.

 

In addition to the above, lemon essential oil also pairs remarkably well with other citrus oils such as sweet orange and bergamot.

 

Other Good-to-Know Information

 

Lemon essential is generally safe for use. However, there is some concern that it can cause phototoxicity when used topically. This can cause irritation, redness, and burning sensation. Therefore, it is best to avoid direct sunlight when you are using this essential oil.

 

A skin patch test should also be done before you start using the essential oil liberally.

 

Is Lemon Essential Oil Right for You?

 

Bright, bold, and refreshing, it would be near-impossible for anyone to resist the charm of “liquid sunshine”, indeed. Give lemon essential oil a try and we are certain you will fall in love with its irresistible charms.

Why Does The Alcohol Content Of Hand Sanitizer Need To Be 70 Percent?

It may come as news to some, but for hand sanitizer to be effective, it needs to contain a certain level of alcohol. Alcohol-based hand sanitizers are just one way you can mitigate your risk and prevent the spread of the coronavirus and other types of viruses and bacteria.

DIY Hand Sanitizer
Some experts warn against making your own hand sanitizer at home because there is simply no guarantee that hand made hand sanitizer will prove effective against pathogens that can harm you. However, with hand sanitizer shortages online and in physical stores, many have turned to make their own.
In addition to not knowing if enough alcohol was used in the hand made hand sanitizer, you may also not know if all the ingredients used in its creation are safe to use on human skin. If the concentration is not right, it can be too harsh, not effective at all, and also be a waste of ingredients.

Store-Bought Hand Sanitizers
Store-bought hand sanitizers typically contain the 70 percent alcohol content that is needed to ward off germs. These hand sanitizers typically contain denatured alcohol or isopropyl alcohol, glycerol or glycerin, hydrogen peroxide, and sterile water. An alcoholmeter is needed to measure the concentration of the alcohol to ensure it is the right concentration for killing germs and to make sure it is safe for use.

The Science Behind It
When a hand sanitizer has a lower concentration of alcohol or is not alcohol-based, it is simply not as effective. It will also not work as equally well on other types of germs. Some germs may even begin to develop a resistance against the hand sanitizer.
When pure alcohol comes into contact with protein, it coagulates. When it comes in contact with a single-celled organism, the alcohol goes through the cell wall of that organism and coagulates the protein inside the cell wall. The protein that has coagulated, however, stops the pure alcohol from going any further into the cell. So instead of killing the organism, it just becomes inactive.
If you have a strong alcohol solution of 70 percent or more, the diluted alcohol in the hand sanitizer can also coagulate the protein but at a much slower rate. This allows the alcohol to penetrate all the way through the cell before any of the coagulation can block it as it does with pure alcohol. Since the process is slower with a 70 percent alcohol-based hand sanitizer, the entire cell becomes coagulated and ultimately kills the organism.
Before you reach for that bottle of hand sanitizer, see to it that it contains at least 70 percent alcohol to ensure that you are killing organisms rather than just subduing them.

Meta: For a hand sanitizer to be effective at killing germs, it needs to contain at least 70 percent alcohol. If not, it can prove to be ineffective.

Hand Sanitizer: Why It Is Important To Have

The world is facing a pandemic with the rise of COVID-19 cases, and germs and bacteria are everywhere. Because of this, we need to always have hand sanitizer with us in case we don’t have access to liquid soaps and water for proper handwashing purposes.

Soap And Water Versus Hand Sanitizer
When you use liquid soaps and water to wash your hands, the combination works to remove all of the germs from your hands. However, when you use hand sanitizer, it kills certain germs on the skin. Since it is alcohol-based, it can quickly reduce the number of germs that are on your hands and can help keep you clean despite not having soap and water available.

A Brief History
The use of hand sanitizer containing at least 60 percent alcohol is recommended when handwashing is not an option. Most hand sanitizers contain between 60 and 95 percent isopropyl or ethyl alcohol that is then mixed with water and glycerin. These antiseptics have been in use since the late 1800s, but the exact origin of hand sanitizer is still unknown.

Additionally, alcohol-based sanitizers act as beneficial alternatives to soap and water. They are also known for being a quick and time-saving solution. Following these recommendations, hospitals and medical facilities around the world have begun using hand sanitizer as well.
Hand sanitizer is especially important in countries that lack vital resources and have limited access to a clean water supply.

Other Important Benefits Of Hand Sanitizer
In addition to being available and convenient when there is no soap or water, hand sanitizer is important to have because of how portable and convenient it is. A bottle of hand sanitizer can easily travel with you wherever you go, and it is perfect for those situations when you need to clean your hands but there’s no sink or tap near you.
It is also a good way to minimize germs and your exposure to others’ germs if you have to go out and about for some essential items. You can sanitize your hands after leaving a grocery store and help minimize germs that could otherwise eventually cause sickness.

As you can see, hand sanitizer has proven to be a valuable resource to have in order to minimize germs and practice good hand hygiene, even when you’re on the go.

Meta: Hand sanitizer is important to have, especially if you don’t have immediate access to clean water and soap for proper handwashing.

Lavender Essential Oil

Classic, familiar, and beloved — lavender essential oil is, undoubtedly, one of the most (if not the most) well-known essential oils. Used for thousands of years by even the ancient Egyptians and Romans, lavender essential oil is what crosses most people’s mind when you mention “essential oil”

 

Today, we are paying homage to this celebrated and highly versatile essential oil.  We are exploring everything to do with lavender essential oil — from its extraction to its multitude of uses and benefits as well as the other essential oils it blends well with.

 

What is Lavender Essential Oil Made Of?

 

Lavender essential oil (scientifically known as Lavandula angustifolia) is derived from, well, the lavender flower. The lavender plant is a perennial evergreen plant that thrives in dry grassy slopes. There are over 30 species of lavender worldwide and hundred of genotypes. They are distinguished by their form and also the chemical composition of their essential oils.

 

Now grown quite globally, lavender is native to the mountainous regions of the Mediterranean (Spain, France, Italy, and Croatia) where there are wet winters and dry summers.

 

Lavender blooms vary in sizes and shapes and they grow on long spikes or stems. The growing conditions of the lavender plant significantly affect the quality of the essential oil. Factors such as season, climate, moisture levels, and soil all come into play here.

 

Lavender essential oil can be found in the microscopic glands on the outside ring of the flower petals, the inside of the flower petals, the leaves, and on the stalks and branches.

 

How is Lavender Essential Oil Extracted?

 

Lavender essential oil is extracted via a steam distillation process.

 

But, before the distillation, the lavender blooms must first be harvested. The ideal time for harvesting is when the flowers are in full bloom and this is usually around June. If the flowers are harvested before they are fully matured, this will negatively affect the quality of the oil.

 

Once harvested, the lavender flowers are compacted into a still to undergo the steam distillation process. Here, the stills are steamed, the steam is collected, and finally, the oil is separated and collected from the water.

Benefits of Lavender Essential Oil

 

1.      Improves sleep quality

 

If you are tossing and turning at night and in need of an essential oil to help you catch some z’s, lavender essential oil is it. Research has found that a few whiffs of lavender essential oil before bed promote deep sleep in young men and women.

 

Besides that, the essential oil is also a saving grace for those suffering from insomnia. This is because inhaling lavender essential oil has been shown to improve the quality of sleep of those suffering from insomnia.

 

Either diffuse lavender essential oil before you head to bed or add a few drops of the oil to your pillow every night to get a good night’s rest.

 

2.      Manages and reduces anxiety as well as stress

 

The magic of lavender essential oil is not limited to just improving sleep quality. The oil can also help to reduce anxiety levels. In fact, it has been suggested that lavender oil could even take on prescription medicine when it comes to reducing generalized anxiety.

 

Keep lavender essential oil close at hand and inhale the soothing oil when you feel anxious or are simply overwhelmed and stressed.

 

3.      Excellent for your skin

 

Lavender essential oil is one of the best oils around for your skin. Everything from acne and dry skin to inflammation and hyperpigmentation can be fixed by this miracle essential oil.

 

For example, with acne, the oil kills the bacteria responsible for breakouts and heals your skin by reducing inflammation. To fight acne, dilute a drop of lavender essential oil with coconut oil (or other carrier oil) and apply it to your clean face.

 

As an alternative, you can also use the oil as a facial toner by mixing two drops of the oil with a teaspoon of witch hazel. Soak a cotton pad or ball with the solution and swipe it across your face. For spot treatment, mix a drop of the essential oil with tea tree oil and apply it directly onto the affected area.

 

4.      Inhibits and treats hair loss

 

For long luscious locks, get your hands on some lavender essential oil now. While the research and studies on this are still in the preliminary stage, the essential oil is possibly effective in significantly improving hair loss in alopecia areata (spot baldness).

 

There is no harm in getting ahead of the research and studies by incorporating the essential oil into your hair care routine now. So, start by adding a drop or two of lavender essential oil to your shampoo or conditioner.

 

Alternatively, use the essential oil as a sort of leave-in treatment by rubbing a drop of the oil onto your hair. The bonus of doing this is that you will smell amazing all day long.

 

5.      Rich in wound-healing properties

 

Lavender essential oil can help to speed up the wound-healing process for burns, cuts, scrapes, and other minor wounds. In these circumstances, lavender oil helps the wound to contract and also promotes the healing of skin tissue.

 

For small wounds, mix three or four drops of lavender essential oil with a few drops of coconut oil and apply the mixture to the wound with a cotton bud. You can use this combination to reduce scars, too, after your wound has healed.

 

6.      Relieves pain

 

Lavender essential oil’s anti-inflammatory and analgesic qualities make it an effective pain reliever. Osteoarthritis pain, neck pain, back pain, and period pain; lavender essential oil is the perfect relief for all of these conditions.

 

For some swift relief, mix lavender essential oil with a carrier oil (such as coconut, jojoba, or almond) and massage the blend onto the affected area.

 

7.      Naturally repels insect and mitigates itchiness

 

Lavender essential not only acts as a natural insect repellent but it can also relieve itching. This is why many store-bought mosquito repellents list lavender oil as one of their ingredients.

 

For a DIY insect repellent spray, mix four drops of lavender essential oil with some water in a spray bottle and shake the mixture well. You can use this on your home, furniture, clothes, and even your body.

 

If you are using the oil to relieve itchiness, mix the oil with a carrier oil and apply it to the bite twice a day or as needed.

 

Mixing Lavender Essential Oil with Other Essential Oils

 

You would be hard-pressed to find an essential oil that does not blend well with lavender essential oil.

 

Lavender is excellent with bergamot, neroli, patchouli, sandalwood, rose, geranium, frankincense, juniper berry, vetiver, lemon, tangerine, grapefruit, clary sage, rosemary, and more. As we said, it is hard to find an essential oil that does not pair well with lavender.

 

Other Good-to-Know Information

 

Sadly, some people are allergic to lavender essential oil. So, start with a patch test just in case you are one of those allergic to the oil. Spare yourself the trouble of irritation, hives, redness, itchiness, and other unpleasant side effects.

 

If you are currently on medication (especially for drugs that induce sleepiness), seek medical advice before using lavender oil.

 

Is Lavender Essential Oil Right For You?

 

A favorite and must-have of many, you really cannot go wrong with the classic lavender essential oil.

 

 

Kaffir Lime Essential Oil

If you are familiar with Southeast Asian cuisines, you are likely also already familiar with the flavor and aroma of kaffir lime essential oil. Tart yet sweet and uplifting, kaffir lime essential oil (Citrus hystrix) is not as commonly used in aromatherapy as other more popular essential oils like lavender and eucalyptus. But, if you ask us, it is a wonderful addition to your collection and you should definitely pick up a bottle of this essential oil.

 

Find out why we make this bold claim below as we cover everything from what exactly is kaffir lime essential oil to its many uses and benefits.

 

What is Kaffir Lime Essential Oil Made Of?

 

Kaffir lime is a tropical fruit native to the Southeast Asian countries of Indonesia, Thailand, Malaysia, and the Philippines. The kaffir plant is a thorny bush that grows up to around 35 feet tall with distinctively shaped leaves. As for the kaffir lime fruit itself, it is small in size — measuring only about 4 cm wide. Lime green in color with rough bumpy skin, the kaffir lime eventually ripens to yellow.

 

Due to its tart and lovely flavor, kaffir lime is popularly used in many Southeast Asian cuisines such as Tom Yum and stir-fries. Besides that, thanks to its scores of health benefits, kaffir lime (and its essential oil) is a common sight in herbal medicines, too. Plus, kaffir lime essential oil is also a fixture in many shampoos, soaps, fragrances, and cosmetic products.

 

How is Kaffir Lime Essential Oil Extracted?

 

There are actually two types of essential oils produced from the kaffir lime trees. The first is produced from the peels or rinds of the kaffir lime fruits and the other is extracted from the leaves of the trees.

 

The more common method to extract kaffir lime essential oil is through steam distillation. However, certain kaffir lime essential oil is extracted via the cold-pressed method, instead.

 

Benefits of Kaffir Lime Essential Oil

 

1.      A huge boost to the immune system

 

Kaffir lime essential oil’s rich antibacterial and antioxidant properties mean that the essential oil is an invaluable and powerful tool when it comes to boosting the immune system.

 

First, the topical application of this essential oil to wounds and cuts inhibits bacteria activity and also prevents infections. In addition to that, kaffir lime essential oil also helps to stimulate the immune system courtesy of its rich antioxidant activities.

 

2.      Provides relief for various respiratory issues

 

Kaffir lime essential oil is also utilized in aromatherapy to naturally aid with various respiratory issues. This includes conditions like colds, coughs, the flu, congestion, and bronchitis.

 

3.      Reduces stress and anxiety

 

Do not let the blues and negative feelings get to you. Instead, take advantage of kaffir lime essential oil’s stress-busting benefits. The essential oil has quite the reputation as being incredibly soothing and helpful in reducing stress, anxiety, and other nervous disorders.

 

Wind down after a long day by diffusing a few drops of kaffir lime essential oil around the room. The oil will help to calm you down and also make it easier to get ready for bedtime. Or, if you feel a panic attack is setting in, try to center and ground yourself by inhaling the essential oil’s soothing scent.

 

4.      Fosters good oral health

 

Kaffir lime is extremely beneficial when it comes to the protection of oral health. Traditionally, kaffir lime leaves are rubbed onto the gums to remove bacteria buildup and promote overall good oral health.

 

However, kaffir lime essential oil works just as effectively for this purpose, too. For example, a study has shown that lemongrass and kaffir lime essential oils demonstrate anti-fungi properties against Candida albicans.

 

To get started, mix a drop of the essential oil into your toothpaste or mouthwash to enjoy better dental health.

 

5.      Promotes healthy and glowing skin

 

As kaffir lime essential oil is loaded with antioxidants, it helps to replenish skin cells, moisturize, hydrate, and protect your skin from harmful UV radiation.

 

Along with that, its antioxidant compounds also put the brakes on the breakdown of cells and minimize scars, pimples, and age marks.

 

Now, you know why kaffir lime remains such a popular ingredient in many cosmetics and body care products. Of course, its glorious scent is a huge plus, too.

 

6.      Perfect as a hair treatment

 

Not only is kaffir lime essential oil excellent for the face and body but it is also great for your hair. The essential oil addresses conditions such as male pattern baldness, dandruff, and hair loss. In fact, many believe that it helps with the reduction of male pattern baldness by strengthening hair follicles.

 

With regular use, you will notice stronger and shinier tresses. Along with healthier hair and scalp, of course.

 

7.      As an effective cleaning agent

 

As a result of its acidity, kaffir lime essential oil is an extremely effective cleaning agent — similar to most citrus oils. Besides that, it can also very easily shift stubborn stains. Better yet, it leaves behind a clean and refreshing aroma that is just absolutely uplifting.

 

Simply mix 10 to 20 drops of the essential oil with some water and get to work. You can also substitute the water with vinegar, instead. This solution is also safe to be used in your kitchen.

 

8.      Naturally repels insects

 

Just like many other essential oils, kaffir lime essential oil is extremely effective in warding off insects. While the essential oil’s scent is heavenly to us, most insects and bugs cannot stand it.

 

To repel insects, mix a few drops of the kaffir lime essential oil with some water in a spray bottle. Spray the solution all over your home including the closets, curtains, bedsheets, carpets, and even in the pantry.

 

If you would like to use the oil to repel pesky insects from your person, instead, blend a few drops of the kaffir lime essential oil with a carrier oil like coconut oil, jojoba oil, or almond oil. Then, apply it all over your body.

 

Mixing Kaffir Lime Essential Oil with Other Essential Oils

 

Kaffir lime essential oil goes well with other citrus oils such as orange, lemon, and lime.

 

Besides that, this essential oil also adds an uplifting note to camphoraceous essentials oils including eucalyptus, frankincense, marjoram, rosemary, and camphor.

 

For a more soothing blend, consider complementing kaffir lime essential oil with floral scents such as jasmine, ylang-ylang, and lavender.

 

Other Good-to-Know Information

 

Due to the potency of kaffir lime essential oil, it is best to dilute the essential oil (with water or carrier oil) before using it. Otherwise, potential side effects include nausea, vomiting, dizziness, hives, heartburn, lightheadedness, and migraines.

 

As usual, to minimize the risk of allergies and irritations, always start by testing a small patch of skin first before using the essential oil on a larger area. Apply a small drop of the kaffir lime essential oil onto the inside of your elbow and cover it up with a bandage. If there is no adverse reaction after 24 hours, the essential oil should be a good fit for you.

 

Is Kaffir Lime Essential Oil Right for You?

 

With its tangy and sweet fragrant, kaffir lime essential oil is a favorite of many and it is very easy to understand why.

Juniper Berry Essential Oil

Woodsy, sweet, crisp, and with a lovely fruity note, there is no doubt that juniper berry essential oil (Juniperus communis) has a very appealing scent. However, there is so much more to this impressive essential oil with its many versatile uses than its amazing fragrant.

 

So, we are going to be shining the spotlight on the nifty juniper berry essential oil in this article. Let’s check out what this essential oil can do for your body.

 

What is Juniper Berry Essential Oil Made Of?

 

Juniper berry essential oil is derived from the berry-like seed cones of Juniperus communis. An evergreen coniferous tree, Juniperus communis can grow to as tall as 10 meters and can even live for up to 200 years.

 

The tree is grey-brown and has slender reddish-brown twigs with green needle-like leaves. Its fruits are berry-like and require up to three growing seasons to mature — at which point they turn from green to a dark blue color. Babylonians, Sumerians, native Americans, and Europeans have long used these berries for spiritual, culinary, and medicinal purposes.

 

Once native to the mountains in Asia, North America, northern Europe, Scandinavia, and Siberia, Juniperus communis is now grown for its essential oil in Austria, France, Czechoslovakia, Hungary, Italy, Canada, and India.

 

How is Juniper Berry Essential Oil Extracted?

 

Juniper berry essential oil is extracted from the fruits of juniper.

 

The juniper berries require around two to three years to ripe. In the fall, harvesters will carefully and gently beat the branches of the bush, until the ripe berries fall.

 

The collected berries are then spread out to dry slowly under the shade to prevent fermentation. Once dried, the berries turn into the familiar blue-black color associated with berries. The berries are then steam-distilled to produce juniper berry essential oil.

 

While it is also possible to extract the essential oil from juniper needles and twigs, this essential oil tends to lack the richness and potency associated with juniper berry essential oil.

 

Benefits of Juniper Berry Essential Oil

 

1.      Brimming with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties

 

Juniper berry essential oil is chock full of compounds that acts as powerful antioxidants like flavonoids.

 

In fact, a test-tube study found over 70 compounds in juniper berry essential oil with monoterpene hydrocarbons such as alpha-pinene, myrcene, sabinene, beta-pinene, and limonene. All of these compounds have strong antioxidant effects. This is vital as antioxidants help to protect your cells from free radical damage that may cause illnesses.

 

This alone makes juniper berry essential oil worthy of your attention and then some.

 

2.      Relaxes cramps

 

Besides that, juniper berry essential oil is also extremely effective in relieving all sorts of cramps — including muscular, intestinal, and respiratory — because of its antispasmodic (reduces spasms) nature.

 

So, if your time of the month is just around the corner, make sure to have juniper berry essential oil at hand to relieve painful menstrual cramps. If you play sports, on the other hand, keep a bottle of the essential oil in your gym bag for when the cramps and spasms hit you.

 

3.      Strong antibacterial and antifungal properties

 

Juniper berry essential oil has long been used for wounds and injuries sustained during war or even sports events. What it does is that its antibacterial and antifungal nature effectively protects wounds from becoming septic and infected.

 

Studies have shown that juniper berry essential oil’s potent antibacterial and antifungal properties are due to the powerful compounds in it. This includes the compounds mentioned above: alpha-pinene, myrcene, sabinene, beta-pinene, and limonene.

 

One of the studies also investigated the essential oil’s antimicrobial activity against various bacteria, fungi, as well as yeast and recorded strong bactericidal activities. The strongest fungicidal activity was recorded against Candida and dermatophytes.

 

To take advantage of this benefit of juniper berry essential oil, mix a drop or two of the essential oil with a carrier oil (coconut oil would be excellent here) and dab it on any wound you may have sustained. You will also likely see a faster wound-healing rate with the essential oil.

 

4.      Treats stomach issues and acts as a carminative agent

 

Stomach issues (including ulcers, flatulence, chest pain, and indigestion) are no joke and juniper berry essential oil can help in this aspect. The essential oil is a stomachic — which essentially means it promotes appetite and assists digestion. This helps to regulate the functions of the stomach and make sure everything is in good shape.

 

Besides that, it also helps to heal stomach disorders and ensure the proper secretion and flow of bile, gastric juices, and acids.

 

Additionally, acting as a carminative agent, juniper berry essential oil helps to reduce intestinal gas which can cause chest pain, acute stomach aches, and indigestion.

 

For some quick-relief, mix two to three drops of juniper berry essential oil with a carrier oil and massage the mixture onto your stomach and abdomen.

 

5.      Combats stress and anxiety

 

It is easy to be overwhelmed and anxious in today’s fast-paced world. So, when life has you down, place a drop or two of the juniper berry essential oil in each palm and lightly rub them again each other.

 

Then, cup your hands over your nose and inhale deeply to ward off the stress and tension. The essential oil will help you to re-center and regroup to find calm once again.

 

6.      As part of your beauty routine

 

On top of that, juniper berry essential oil is also popular for its ability to reduce blemishes. For crystal-clear complexion, add a drop of the essential oil to your toner, serum, or moisturizer.

 

Alternatively, for a purifying and rejuvenating facemask, mix a drop or two of juniper berry essential oil with a Bentonite clay mask. After rinsing off the mask, you will notice visibly smoother and clearer skin.

 

7.      Creates a fresh and calming atmosphere

 

Juniper berry essential oil’s woodsy scent blended with a citrus essential oil (such as bergamot) in a diffuser is sure to set the right mood for any room.

 

Alternatively, you can also create a freshening spray that puts the commercial ones to shame. Simply mix a few drops of the juniper berry essential oil with some water in a spray bottle and use it to freshen up the carpet, closet, car, and furniture.

 

Not only will the essential oil’s antibacterial properties come into play here but these spaces will also smell amazing!

 

Mixing Juniper Berry Essential Oil with Other Essential Oils

 

As you can see from the above, juniper berry essential oil pairs well with citrus oils like bergamot, lime, lemon, and grapefruit.

 

You can also play to the essential oil’s woodsy scent with wood oils such as cedarwood and sandalwood.

 

Other Good-to-Know Information

 

In general, juniper berry essential oil is considered safe when taken in the right doses. An overdose of juniper oil, however, can cause kidney issues and blood in the urine.

 

It is also advised for pregnant and breastfeeding women to temporarily refrain from using this essential oil. Alternatively, consult with a physician before using the essential oil.

 

Is Juniper Berry Essential Oil Right for You?

 

From its beautiful scent to its many uses for your body and home, there is really no reason why juniper berry essential oil is not right for you. Give it a try and we are sure you will fall for its charm in no time at all.

Jasmine Sambac 3% in Jojoba Oil

Sensual, dreamy, and fragrant, jasmine sambac oil (jasminum sambac) is a very sought after and popular choice in the world of essential oils. So, why is jasmine sambac so very enticing and alluring?

 

Well, we are about to find out.

 

What is Jasmine Sambac Essential Oil Made Of?

 

Jasmine sambac essential oil comes from the Arabian jasmine. It is also commonly referred to as Sambac Jasmine.

 

A species of jasmine native to tropical Asia — from eastern South Asia to Southeast Asia — the flower is now naturalized in many places. This includes Christmas Island, Central America, Mauritius, Madagascar, the Maldives, Jamaica, the Bahamas, Puerto Rico, and Europe.

 

Growing up to only about 3m in height, its flowers are often featured in perfumes and teas. Besides that, Jasmine Sambac is also the national flower of two different countries: the Philippines and Indonesia.

 

How is Jasmine Sambac Essential Oil Extracted?

 

There is a fair bit of difficulty associated with extracting jasmine oil from the flower petals. Because of how delicate and fragile the flower petals are, steam distillation — the common extraction method for most essential oils — may not be the best method here as steam distillation uses high heat.

 

This can cause the flower petals to deteriorate and thereby making the essential oil extraction impossible. Besides that, the heat can also destroy the fragile aromatic molecules in the petal, rendering it fragrant-less.

 

That is why a more common method used is a two-step chemical process called solvent extraction. Here, a solvent is added to the plant to help dissolve the essential oil. Then, the solution is filtered and concentrated by distillation. Once done, pure alcohol is used to extract the oil. Finally, when the alcohol evaporates, the oil is left behind.

 

Meanwhile, a newer method uses carbon dioxide to extract the essential oil from the flowers.

 

Benefits of Jasmine Sambac Essential Oil

 

1.     Great antiseptic properties

 

Jasmine sambac essential oil is an effective antiseptic. In fact, the flower itself was once used as an alternative to medicines.

 

This is courtesy of the chemical components in the flower, including benzyl benzoate, benzoic acid, and benzaldehyde.

 

For minor wounds and cuts, clean the area thoroughly. Then, apply a small amount of the essential oil to the area to prevent infection.

 

2.     Treats cough and cold

 

Just like infections in wounds, jasmine sambac can also help with infection to the respiratory system. Thereby, alleviating cough and cold.

 

Besides that, the essential oil is also a natural expectorant. This helps to decongest phlegm in your respiratory tracts.

 

Add a few drops of the essential oil to a bowl of hot water. Then, cover the bowl and your head with a towel for around 10 minutes. Inhale slowly and deeply.

 

3.     Helps to relieve inflammation and pain

 

Jasmine sambac essential oil can also be a great help when it comes to pain and inflammation such as headache, backache, rheumatism, and joint pains.

 

Its excellent anti-inflammatory and antinociceptive properties together with its mild anesthetic properties mean that it helps to accelerate the recovery process for these conditions.

 

To alleviate inflammation, mix a few drops of jasmine oil with a carrier oil. Next, warm up the blend between your palms. Then, massage carefully onto the inflamed area.

 

4.     Naturally eases spasms

 

A natural antispasmodic agent, jasmine oil eases spasms in the body. So, the oil can be an effective aid for conditions like cough, muscle spasms, and more.

 

In fact, traditionally, the jasmine essence was used during childbirth because of its pain-relieving and antispasmodic qualities.

 

For relief from muscle spasms, mix jasmine essential oil with a carrier oil. Next, warm it up a little between your palms and then work the mixture onto your muscles.

 

Alternatively, you can also diffuse the essential oil in a smaller area to help to alleviate coughing.

 

5.     Helps to ease stress, anxiety, and depression

 

Jasmine sambac essential oil’s bright and sweet scent is well-known for its uplifting and stress-relieving effects. Its soothing fragrance helps to keep negative feelings at bay.

 

How does it work? Well, the oil relaxes the nervous system and decreases heart rate. Besides that, Jasmine sambac essential oil also has mild sedative quality.

 

So, when you feel anxiety, fatigue, stress, or sadness set in, it is time to whip out the essential oil. Add a few drops to your warm bath water and indulge in a self-care session. Alternatively, diffuse a few drops of the essential oil around the house to cheer yourself up.

 

6.     Soften skin

 

For supple and soft skin, let jasmine sambac essential oil wow you with its wonderful effects.

 

Simply add a few drops of the oil to your warm bath water and soak in it. Make this part of your body-care routine and you will notice smooth, soft, and moisturized skin in no time at all.

 

7.     Reduces the appearances of scars and blemishes

 

Have stretch marks, scars, and blemishes you want to get rid of? This powerhouse essential oil can help to reduce the appearances of these marks. Jasmine sambac essential oil works wonders on post-pregnancy stretch marks, acne scars, and more.

 

On top of that, you can also use the essential oil as a home remedy for redness and inflammation caused by sunburn.

 

For smooth and flawless skin, blend a few drops of the jasmine sambac essential oil with coconut oil or jojoba oil and massage it all over your body.

 

8.     The perfect all-rounder for shinier, stronger, and healthier hair

 

Jasmine sambac essential oil is excellent for your scalp and hair. For your scalp, the essential oil keeps lice at bay. Besides that, it also treats all sorts of scalp infections and inflammation such as fungal infection, dandruff, and itchiness. Plus, it helps to keep your scalp moisturized and healthy.

 

All you have to do is to massage the oil onto your scalp once or twice a week for maximum results.

 

As for your hair, the jasmine oil keeps your locks nourished, stronger, and thicker. It also strengthens your hair root and gives your waves a nice shine.

 

To use jasmine sambac essential oil for your hair, replace your hair conditioner with the oil. You can also use the oil as a sort of leave-in treatment to keep frizz under control.

 

Mixing Jasmine Sambac Essential Oil With Other Essential Oils

 

Intoxicating and potent, jasmine sambac essential oil blends well with other floral essential oils such as ylang-ylang and lavender. To take it up a notch and for a little more ‘oomph!’, the essential oil goes well with citrusy essential oils, too. Try and pair it with bergamot, blood orange, grapefruit, or lemon essential oils.

 

Other Good-to-Know Information

 

When you are new to an essential oil, it is always best to start with a patch test. This is also the case with jasmine sambac essential oil. Dab a little drop of the oil on the inside of your arm and bandage the area. If you do not see any redness, inflammation, irritation, or reaction after 24 hours, the essential oil should be safe for your use.

 

Bear in mind, however, that jasmine oil’s aroma is relatively more potent. So, if you are in the market for something lighter and subtler, this may not be the essential oil for you.

 

Is Jasmine Sambac Essential Oil Right for You?

 

If you are searching for a bold essential oil that is brimming with benefits, then, jasmine sambac essential oil is absolutely the one for you.

 

 

Himalayan Cedarwood Essential Oil

Popularly used for centuries, cedarwood essential oil has been a constant in various cultures and traditions for hundreds of years. Once utilized for embalming by ancient Egyptians, for building temples and altars by Indians, and as a part of ceremonies by Native Americans, this woodsy, earthy, and slightly sweet essential oil remains a prominent favorite of many until today.

 

Versatile and potent, Himalayan cedarwood essential oil is absolutely worth your attention. So, today, let’s explore this wonderful essential oil in detail. In this article, you have everything from the, uh, essentials of this essential oil to its benefits and uses.

 

What is Himalayan Cedarwood Essential Oil Made Of?

 

Himalayan cedarwood essential oil is extracted from the wood of the Himalayan cedarwood. Now, the Himalayan cedarwood (Cedrus deodara) is one of the four main species of cedar trees around the world. The other species are Atlas cedarwood (Cedrus atlantica), Texas cedarwood (Juniperus mexicana), and Virginian cedarwood (Juniperus virginiana).

 

Known as “the wood of the gods”, it is only fitting that Himalayan cedarwood thrives at high altitudes — especially in the Himalayan mountains. Native to the western Himalayas, northern Pakistan, and India, the tree can reach up to 160 feet tall.

 

As the Himalayan cedarwood is also grown as an ornamental tree with its needle-like leaves and drooping branchlets, you can find this particular cedarwood in parks and gardens.

 

How is Himalayan Cedarwood Essential Oil Extracted?

 

The Himalayan cedarwood essential oil is extracted from the inner wood and, occasionally, the pine needle of the Himalayan cedarwood tree via steam distillation. As an aside and a fun fact, did you know that people started to steam distill cedarwood about 5,500 years ago?

 

Today’s method of steam distillation involves pushing hot pressurized steam through the woods and pine needles. The steam then goes through a condensation and collection process.

 

Benefits of Himalayan Cedarwood Essential Oil

 

1.      Possesses analgesic properties

 

Himalayan Cedarwood essential oil is a must-have for some natural pain relief because of its excellent analgesic properties. An animal study has confirmed that essential oil shows significant analgesic and anti-inflammatory activity.

 

To use Himalayan Cedarwood essential oil to treat pain, add a few drops of the essential oil to a hot bath. Alternatively, blend a few drops of the essential oil with a carrier oil of your choice and massage into the affected area to soothe the pain.

 

2.      Reduces inflammation and joint pain

 

Besides that, many who suffer from arthritis and rheumatism find Himalayan cedarwood essential oil to be vital in helping them to manage the pain stemming from the conditions. This includes aching joints, swelling joints, and stiffness in joints.

 

Mix a few drops of the cedarwood essential oil with a carrier oil and rub all over the painful joints for some quick relief. On top of that, a long soak in a bath with the essential oil can also help with the pain and stiffness.

 

3.      Has antispasmodic properties

 

Additionally, the himachalol in the Himalayan cedarwood essential oil is shown to have a spasmolytic effect — able to relieve muscle spasm. This can be used for afflictions like muscle cramps, menstrual cramps, and potentially stomach problems.

 

To use the essential oil to ease painful cramps and spasm, blend the Himalayan essential oil with a carrier oil (such as coconut oil) and rub on the painful areas. For menstrual cramps, rub it on your lower abdomen as well as back.

 

Alternatively, place a few drops of the essential oil in the hot bath for some all-over relief.

 

4.      Excellent antioxidant activities

 

Apart from that, Cedarwood essential oil has also been shown to have high antioxidant properties. This is especially so for the essential oils extracted from the pine needles of Himalayan cedarwood.

 

Its outstanding antioxidant activity can help to fight free radicals for a healthier brain and nervous system.

 

5.      Treats acne and breakouts

 

Not only for the body, Himalayan cedarwood essential oil also works wonders for the face. Its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties mean that it can effectively be used as a treatment for various skin conditions, such as acne, blemishes, breakouts, and eczema.

 

The essential oil purges the pores to prevent clogging and also doubles as a guard against bacteria.

 

For supple blemish-free skin, mix a few drops of Himalayan essential oil with your daily toner or moisturizer. Alternatively, to use as part of your cleansing routine, simply add one or two drops to your cleanser or facial scrub. If you need spot treatment, on the other hand, blend the essential oil with a carrier oil and dab it on with a swab or cotton ball. Rinse it off 15-20 minutes later.

6.      Natural insect-repellent

 

Another fun fact: Himalayan cedars can live up to hundreds of years. In fact, some even lived up to about 1,000 years. The reason for the Himalayan cedarwood’s long life can be attributed to the fact that the essential oil in it protects it from insects, beetles, moths, and other bugs.

 

So, what works for the cedars will work for you, too. Now you know that to get rid of flies, fleas, and other insects or bugs in your home, you can turn to Himalayan cedarwood essential oil.

 

For the purpose of keeping your home pest-free, a spray or diffuser with the essential oil will work best. Dilute the Himalayan cedarwood essential oil with some water and pour it into a spray bottle. Spray on clothes, furniture, carpet, and other appropriate household items. Take care to avoid getting it in your eyes and mouth.

 

If you would like to use it on your skin, replace the water with a carrier oil and spray or rub all over your body.

 

Mixing Himalayan Cedarwood Essential Oil with Other Essential Oils

 

Himalayan cedarwood essential oil is woodsy, earthy, and slightly smoky. It blends well with floral scents such as patchouli, lavender, chamomile, and ylang-ylang essential oils. However, it also pairs well with woodsy essential oils including sandalwood, juniper berry, and vetiver.

 

For relief to respiratory issues such as congestion and cough, Himalayan cedarwood essential oil is great with eucalyptus, rosemary, or frankincense essential oils.

 

For an easier time in catching the Z’s, a blend of Himalayan cedarwood essential oil with lavender, frankincense, and vetiver essential oils is the way to go.

 

If you are looking for a quick and soothing pick-me-up for your skin, mix Himalayan cedarwood essential oil with geranium, lavender, and frankincense essential oils. Remember to dilute the blend with a carrier oil such as argan or jojoba oil.

 

To keep creepy-crawlies away from your body and home, give a mix of Himalayan cedarwood essential oil and witch hazel, lavender, peppermint, and citronella essential oils a try.

 

Other Good-to-Know Information

 

Himalayan cedarwood essential oil is generally extremely safe to use. However, to err on the side of safety, always start with a patch test to ensure that there will be no adverse reaction.

 

Do not ingest Himalayan cedarwood essential oil as it is unsafe for ingestion because of its potency. Ingestion is likely to cause nausea, vomiting, and irritation to the digestive system.

 

Besides that, it is also best for pregnant and nursing women to refrain from using Himalayan essential oil.

 

Is Himalayan Cedarwood Essential Oil Right for You?

 

It is extremely easy to see (or sniff) the appeal of Himalayan cedarwood essential oil — woodsy, comforting, and just generally a delight. Its attractive scent coupled with its many health benefits makes it the right essential oil for just about everybody.

Essential Oils To Help With Hair Loss

Hair loss can be a scary and frustrating experience. You may be researching all kinds of products boasting properties that help with hair growth, but do you really know what some of those over-the-counter solutions contain?

Minoxidil is one ingredient that is used in many hair growth treatments. While effective in some cases, it can cause side effects like skin irritation, dandruff, and itchiness. So why not opt for more natural products that can help prevent hair loss and encourage growth?

The following essential oils are known for their ability to promote thicker, longer, and healthier hair growth without all the side effects you may experience with chemical-based products.

Rosemary

Rosemary essential oil has been found to improve hair thickness and promote hair growth. It also can improve cellular generation. It has been found to work just as well as minoxidil but without the itchiness and skin irritation.

You can massage about five drops of rosemary directly into your scalp after a shower, or you can mix a few drops of rosemary into your shampoo or conditioner.

Patchouli

This essential oil is known for its anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, which make it the ideal essential oil to treat scalp issues that can ultimately cause hair loss. Senja hair oil contains patchouli to promote hair growth. It also contains lavender and cananga oils to promote a calming effect and help restore the hair.

Lavender

One of the most versatile oils, lavender essential oil is used for a variety of conditions, including hair loss. It is a soothing and calming oil that is often used as the treatment for alopecia and baldness. It has been found to significantly increase the number of hair follicles and hair follicle depth.

Tea Tree

If you are experiencing hair loss or other hair and scalp issues, including dandruff, then tea tree essential oil can help. Tea tree oil can help remove the dead skin buildup that can hinder hair growth while also providing you with antifungal and antibacterial benefits. It unclogs hair follicles and naturally nourishes the roots of the hair.

If you are experiencing hair loss and want to find natural products to encourage the growth of long, healthy hair, then these essential oils are a good start. They do not come with side effects brought on by synthetic chemicals.

 

Meta Description: Hair loss is a problem that a lot of people all over the world are dealing with. Thankfully, there are essential oils that can promote hair growth.

Ginger Essential Oil

Nicknamed “the Oil of Empowerment” for the feeling of confidence it inspires, ginger essential oil is also famously known for its many uses throughout history. From the Chinese to the Indians to the Europeans, no one could resist the lure of this prized underground stem.

So, today, we are answering the siren song of the enigmatic ginger essential oil and finding out just what is so appealing about this essential oil. Let’s delve deeper into this essential oil, focusing particularly on its myriad uses and benefits.

 

What is Ginger Essential Oil Made Of?

 

Ginger essential oil is derived from the root Zingiber officinale or, as it is more commonly known, ginger. This herbaceous perennial is a member of the same plant family that includes turmeric and cardamom. Its stems produce narrow green leaves and yellow flowers.

 

Once indigenous to the south of China, ginger is now grown throughout the world especially in Asia, India, the Moluccas Islands (also known as the Spice Islands), Africa, Europe, and the Caribbean. Today, the largest producer of ginger is India. Other countries where you can find ginger abundantly include China, Nepal, Nigeria, Thailand, and Indonesia.

 

How is Ginger Essential Oil Extracted?

 

Ginger essential oil is extracted by steam distillation of the root of the ginger plant. Here, the ginger root is macerated and distilled over high heat.

 

Once extracted, the oil is light yellow and rich in gingerol — a potent (and extremely beneficial) oily resin from the root of ginger. It also bears a spicy, sweet, and pungent scent.

 

Additionally, ginger essential oil’s many benefits are nearly identical to that of the herb it originates from. In fact, it is the most potent form of ginger because it contains the highest levels of gingerol.

 

Benefits of Ginger Essential Oil

 

1.      Reduces inflammation

 

Ginger essential oil is said to provide relief for inflammatory conditions such as pain, bloating, discomfort, and swelling.

 

According to experts, a component of ginger essential oil, zingibain, is responsible for the anti-inflammatory properties of the oil. This component alleviates different types of inflammation and pain such as migraine, muscle aches, headaches, arthritis, and muscular spasms.

 

Besides that, it has also been shown that ginger essential oil reduces the number of prostaglandins — a substance that causes pain in the body.

 

On top of that, there are many published animal studies on the anti-inflammatory nature of ginger essential oil. For example, this 2013 animal study found that ginger essential oil contains antioxidant activity as well as significant anti-inflammatory and antinociceptive (inhibition of the sensation of pain) properties.

 

Then you have this 2018 study that found that the essential oil’s anti-inflammatory nature had a protective effect on the kidneys of rats treated with the toxin cadmium.

 

2.      As a remedy for respiratory illnesses and difficulties

 

There is nothing worse than having trouble breathing. So, if you are suffering from respiratory difficulties, ginger essential oil may be the answer to helping you breathe more freely.

 

Ginger essential oil is a known (and tested) natural remedy for colds, flu, coughs, asthma, bronchitis, and loss of breath. Besides that, the essential oil also acts as an expectorant and lubricates irritations in the respiratory tract.

 

Apart from that, a study in the American Journal of Respiratory Cell and Molecular Biology also found that ginger essential oil possesses substances that can address irritations, inflammations, and infections in the airway. Hence, patients with asthma and other airway difficulties may find the oil helpful for some reprieve.

 

To ease congestion and respiratory irritations, mix and diffuse two drops each of ginger, tea tree, sage, and eucalyptus essential oils.

 

3.      Treats stomach issues and promotes healthy digestion

 

One of the best natural remedies around for indigestion, diarrhea, stomachaches, and intestinal spasms, let ginger essential oil work its magic if you are experiencing these painful and troubling conditions.

An animal study to investigate the gastroprotective activity of ginger essential oils in rats found that the essential oil inhibits lesions and erosion of the stomach wall.

 

Besides that, it has also been shown that inhaling ginger essential oil can effectively reduce nausea, especially after surgical procedures.

 

4.      Rich in antioxidants

 

Ginger essential oil is also filled to the brim with important antioxidants. Antioxidants are substances that help to prevent or slow down certain cell damages caused by oxidation. This is vital as oxidation is the leading cause of health conditions such as heart diseases, cancer, and dementia.

 

Therefore, ginger essential oil can help to ward off these conditions and promote overall good health.

 

5.      Assuages anxiety, depression, and fatigue

 

Mitigate the feelings of anxiety, depression, and exhaustion with ginger essential oil. A research in Switzerland confirmed that the essential oil can activate your serotonin receptor to relieve anxiety. Besides that, the oil can stimulate feelings of courage (it is, after all, the Oil of Empowerment) and comfort, too.

 

Additionally, ginger essential oil’s warmth also makes it excellent as a sleep aid if you are having trouble dozing off at night. Simply add three to four drops of the ginger essential oil to the diffuser to improve sleep quality.

 

6.      Promotes healthy hair and scalp

 

If you read the labels of shampoos and other hair products, you will often see ginger essential oil or ginger extract listed as one of the ingredients in these products. This is because ginger essential oil (or extract) is believed to aid in promoting healthy hair and scalp, getting rid of dandruff, and accelerating hair growth.

 

To do away with dandruff and itchy scalp, add two drops of ginger essential oil to your regular shampoo. If you need something a little more potent, blend 10 to 12 drops of ginger essential oil with five drops of carrier oil and a teaspoon of lemon juice. Massage this combination onto the scalp and rinse it off with shampoo after 15 to 30 minutes.

 

If you want to stimulate hair growth, on the other hand, mix 10 to 12 drops of ginger essential oil with equal parts of jojoba oil. Massage the blend onto the scalp in a circular motion and leave it on for 30 minutes to an hour. Next, rinse it off and shampoo as usual. This hair mask helps in boosting circulation to the scalp and, therefore, stimulates hair growth.

 

Mixing Ginger Essential Oil with Other Essential Oils

 

Ginger essential oil’s spicy yet sweet potent flavor blends well with many essential oils. This includes citrus essential oils such as bergamot, lemon, lime, and orange.

 

It mixes well with woodsy and earthy scents like cedarwood, sandalwood, clary sage, and frankincense essential oils, too.

 

For a more floral combination, consider pairing ginger essential oil with patchouli, rose, and ylang-ylang essential oils.

 

Other Good-to-Know Information

 

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has confirmed that ginger essential oil is “generally recognized as safe” with little adverse effects reported.

 

However, in high doses, the essential oil may cause mild heartburn, diarrhea, and certain irritations. Besides that, if you have any sort of medical condition or on certain medications, talk to your doctor before taking ginger essential oil.

 

Is Ginger Essential Oil Right For You?

 

If you are unbothered by ginger essential oil’s slightly overpowering scent, definitely give this formidable essential oil a try. Its amazing benefits will no doubt win you over.