Category Archives: Did You Know

Coriander-Did You Know?

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Coriander:Cilantro-did you knowDid you know Coriander is the oil of loyalty, specifically loyalty to oneself? The individual in need of Coriander oil may be stuck in a cycle of always putting the needs of others ahead of their own. Coriander changes the focus of a person from doing things for the acceptance of others to honoring, and living from ones true self.

Coriander and cilantro come from the same plant. The word coriander can be used to describe the entire plant: leaves, stems, seeds, and all. Most people are referring to the spice produced from the seeds of the coriander plant. The leaves of the plant are commonly called cilantro, which comes from the Spanish word for coriander.

The change in names is very appropriate, since the plant’s leaves and the ripened seeds taste totally different. Cilantro on the other hand is a little too different for many more delicate taste buds, unfortunately. Most people either enjoy or greatly dislike the taste, but I can see why some people argue that it’s an acquired taste.

It’s a different story for the seeds. Coriander is an extremely popular spice with a pleasing aroma and lemony flavor, found in many recipes. Little is known about the origins of the coriander plant, although it is generally thought to be native to the Mediterranean and parts of southwestern Europe.

More recently, coriander plants were known to be growing in Massachusetts by the early 1600’s, one of the first herbs grown by the American colonists. Coriander essential oil promotes digestion and eases stomach upset, aids in a healthy insulin response, soothes joint and muscle pain. Coriander essential oil is also know for toning and rejuvenating to the skin.

Cypress-Did You Know?

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Cypress-did you knowDid you know Cypress is the oil of motion and flow? Cypress teaches our spirit how to let go of the past by going with the flow of life. Cypress gives support to people by helping them throw aside their worries and let go of control allowing them to enjoy the excitement that comes from being alive, and being fully in the present.

Mediterranean Cypress has been widely cultivated as an ornamental tree for millennia away from its native range, mainly throughout the whole Mediterranean region, and in other areas with similar hot, dry summers and mild, rainy winters. Natural forest stands of the species mainly occur in the western part of the Mediterranean region of Turkey.

It is also known for its very durable, scented wood, used most famously for the doors of St Peter’s Basilica in the Vatican City, Rome. The Mediterranean Cypress is also known as the “drama tree” because of its tendency to bend with even the slightest of breezes.

Cypress oil is known to mankind since ancient times and has been used in many traditional medicines. Aromatherapy has been another important usage of this essential oil which has been a common practice for a long time. It is also known for the cross on which Jesus was crucified was made from the wood of cypress tree.

The oil from the cypress tree assists with clear breathing. Promotes healthy respiratory function. Soothes tight, tense muscles. Supports localized blood flow. Beneficial for oily skin conditions. It has a grounding, yet stimulating effect on the emotions, making it a popular oil to diffuse during times of transition or loss.

Carrot Seed-Did You Know?

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Carrot Seed
Did you know that carrot seeds were at one point thought to be a contraceptive? There are many records in history, including Hippocrates, that the seeds were used for birth control. Carrot seed oil is perhaps one of the most under appreciated essential oils. It has been studied for it’s antiseptic, carminative, depurative, diuretic, emmenagogue, and vermifuge properties.

Carrot seed oil has well known health benefits. It nourishes, and tightens skin, helps stimulate an appetite, treats ulcers, improves liver and gall bladder issues and Stimulates the lymph system. Carrot seed oil also helps women with breast milk production after childbirth. It eases hiccups, colic, flatulence, and treats kidney stones and jaundice

Carrot seed oil is said to contain a high SPF factor when diluted with a carrier oil. According to a study published in “Pharmacognosy Magazine” in 2009, products containing carrot seed oil have a natural SPF of between 38 and 40. Determining the exact SPF factor of an oil is difficult, especially given that natural oils oxidize which means they lose some of their medicinal properties.

Angelica-Did You Know?

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Angelica The PlantDid you know Angelica is the oil of spiritual opening. Angelica essential oil acts as a spiritual guide. It opens the soul to spirituality by giving support to everyone that is on a path with their True Self, and with their higher power. Angelica assists in healing a wide range of spiritual issues such as lack of faith, feeling spiritually manipulated, or controlled by others, or feeling cut off from Divine love. It encourages a willingness to open the mind, and see spirituality in a new light.

According to one European legend, Angelica was shown in a dream by an angel to cure the plague. This is the reason this plant was named Angelica. All parts of the plant were believed to be effective against evil spirits and witchcraft. It was held in such high regard that it was called ’The Root of the Holy Ghost.’

Angelica is used a lot in the world of herbal medicine. It is useful in the treatment of fevers, colds, coughs, flatulent colic, and other stomach disorders. Externally it is used as a medicinal gargle for sore throats, and mouths and as a medicinal poultice for broken bones, swellings, itching, and rheumatism. It has been studied for antibacterial properties which help to prevent the growth of various bacteria. Angelica should not be taken in large quantities by pregnant women.

Rosewood-Did You Know?

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RosewoodDid you know Rosewood essential oil is the oil of sensitivity? Rosewood supports extremely sensitive people that struggle to deal with the stresses that come to them in life. It gives assistance to those who are overstimulated or who experience life as painful due to their unwelcome sensitivities. Rosewood surrounds the excessively sensitive soul with warm nurturing energy.

The wood of this tree is very valuable, and commonly used in cabinet-making, carving building, and essential oil extraction. In the early eighteenth century, Rosewood essential oil was used in the field of perfume making. There was a time when Rosewood was harvested near extinction. As a result these trees have been classified as an endangered species, and the legislation has come up with a resolution that requires the essential oil distilleries to plant a new tree for every tree they use for essential oil extraction.

The benefits of Rosewood essential oil are many. It provides relief from headaches, toothaches, and joint pain. Rosewood is useful in treating nausea, vomiting, coughs, stress, and many skin issues. It also keeps the brain cool active, sharp and alert. Rosewood improves blood circulation, and digestion. This oil has been studied for its ability to improve memory, and protect people from neurotic disorders. Other uses for Rosewood oil include insecticide, natural deodorant, and may increase libido.

Palmarosa-Did You Know?

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Palmarosa
Did you know Palmarosa is The Oil of Growth and Maturity? Palmarosa can help people to grow and develop physically as well as emotionally. Just like the fast growing Palmarosa grass, this oil can speed up a persons emotional growth process. It is extremely helpful for children as well as adults that are trapped emotionally at a younger age developmentally.

Palmarosa is a wild growing, green and straw-colored grass, with long slender stems, terminal flowering tops and fragrant grassy leaves. It has been traditionally used in India and West Africa to flavor foods and cure meats. People have also used it for decades to make cosmetics, soaps, and perfumes. It has been used for centuries to dilute the more expensive Rose oil. It has a delightful, rosy scent with a hint of lemon, wintergreen and maple leaf.

Palmarosa oil moisturizes the skin and regenerates cells as well as enhances anti-aging functions. It is also antibacterial and aids in digestion of food. In addition, it calms the nerves, treats colds and flu, removes scars, relieves muscle pains and strains, and treats cuts and wounds by preventing infection.

Palmarosa oil has a strong scent, so use sparingly. Calms emotions,warming to the body, and helps relax tight muscles. Lessens pain, and could be useful for treatment for anorexia nervosa. It helps when treating a sluggish appetite. Palmarosa oil brings inner peace, balancing, and is refreshing, and soothing. Is great for skin care, and is safe for all skin types and great for moisturizing the skin and hair.

Palmarosa oil can be used in carrier oil for massages, and to treat fungal infections topically. It can be used to treat wounds topically without dilution. It can be used in aromatherapy to help with anxiety and fatigue. For another alternative, it can be inhaled to kill intestinal infections. Pregnant women should first seek expert advice before use.

Essential Oils Studied For Antimicrobial Properties

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Studied for Antimicrobial Properties

Antimicrobial is an agent that resists or destroys pathogenic microorganisms. The Invasion and multiplication of pathogenic microorganisms in the body is called an infection. When we are infected by pathogens we become sick, which means that our bodies stop functioning properly.

Arborvitae Essential Oil

Arborvitae essential oil has a high content of tropolones, a group of chemical compounds that protect against environmental and seasonal threats, have powerful purifying properties, and promote healthy cell function.
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Cardamom Essential Oil
Cardamom is commonly used to help reduce indigestion and nausea, and to soothe stomach discomfort and promote digestion. Its distinct scent can lessen motion sickness while promoting a positive mood.
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Cassia Essential Oil
When diluted, Cassia can help soothe sore, achy joints. Cassia can be used in cooking either as a replacement for Cinnamon in pies and breads, or by itself in many different entrees and desserts.
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Cinnamon Essential Oil
Cinnamon is strong, so be sure to dilute it (3 drops of carrier oil to 1 drop of cinnamon), but you can cook, bake, or even make candy with it too.

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Fennel Essential Oil
Fennel is best known for its distinct licorice aroma and taste, yet its ability to ease digestive troubles and monthly menstrual cycles are equally noteworthy.
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Frankincense Essential Oil

Frankincense promotes a healthy inflammatory response and acts as an overall tonic to the body’s systems, helping them function optimally. When inhaled or diffused, Frankincense induces feelings of peace, relaxation, satisfaction, and overall wellness.
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Helichrysum Essential Oil

Helichrysum is highly valued and sought after for its many health benefits. It’s frequently consumed to help detoxify the body. Also referred to as Everlasting or Immortal Flower.

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Lavender Essential Oil

Inhaling Lavender promotes relaxation and a restful night’s sleep, making it an ideal oil to diffuse at bedtime and when stress levels are high.
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Lemon Essential Oil

Lemon has multiple benefits and uses. Lemon is a powerful cleansing agent that purifies the air, disinfects surfaces, and can be used as a non-toxic cleaner throughout the home.

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Lemongrass Essential Oil 

This oil supports healthy digestion, and soothes aching muscles. Lemongrass purifies and tones skin, and acts as an overall tonic to the body’s systems.
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Melissa (Lemon Balm) Essential Oil

Melissa is also great for your skin or over the reflex areas for the area of concern. You can also add a drop to your tea,
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Myrrh Essential Oil

Myrrh is valued as an expectorant, which means it promotes the expulsion of mucus in cases of bronchitis and lung congestion. Myrrh is best for chronic conditions, because it contains tannins and resins, it has an astringent effect on tissues.
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Patchouli Essential Oil

Patchouli is regularly used in the perfume industry as well as in scented products. The fragrance of Patchouli provides a grounding, balancing effect on emotions.
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Peppermint Essential Oil

Peppermint is very pleasing to the taste buds (you can add the oil to tea or water), but is powerfully soothing to the digestive system. You can usually apply it without diluting, inhale for nausea, or take internally as suggested.

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Thyme Essential Oil
Thyme makes a great defense against many concerns, although it should always be diluted (4 drops carrier oil to 1 drop thyme). You can also cook with it.
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Myrtle-Did You Know?


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MyrtleDid you know Myrtle is the oil of adaptability? Myrtle instills the soul with qualities helping you to adjust to new conditions, capable of being flexible, and recovering quickly from difficult conditions. Myrtle helps brings joy to the heart allowing things to flow naturally. It is helpful during difficult and challenging times.

The Ancient Egyptians knew of the therapeutic properties of myrtle, macerating the leaves in wine to counter fever and infection. The best and most fragrant myrtle trees came from Egypt. In Biblical times, Jewish women wore garlands of myrtle on their heads on their wedding day as a symbol of love, and to bring them happiness. In 1876, Dr Delioux de Savignac advocated the use of myrtle for bronchial infections, for problems of the urinary and reproductive system, and for hemorrhoids.

A study shows that myrtle oil kills Salmonella on fresh fruits and vegetables. Scientists intentionally inoculated fresh tomatoes, and iceberg lettuce with a strain of Salmonella. Then they used a cleaning solution that had a dilution rate of 1 to 1000 containing myrtle leaf oil to test if it would kill the bacteria. The results suggest that the use of myrtle can be an effective alternative to the use of chlorine or other disinfectants on fruits and vegetables.

Myrtle lowers blood sugar and has been traditionally used in Iran for the treatment of Malaria. It is also known for its ability to repel mosquitoes, and kills fungus, and mold. In some cultures myrtle is used to heal mouth ulcers, warts, and acne.