Friday, December 2, 2016

In this article, you’ll learn about:

Diabetes and the Body
Aromatherapy and Diabetes
6 Ways to Use Essential Oils for Diabetes Management

Diabetes is one of the more widespread metabolic, chronic illnesses of our time. It’s estimated that around 10% of the population is diagnosed with diabetes, while another 8 million people likely have it without being diagnosed.

Although there isn’t a defined cure, diabetes can be managed with diet and lifestyle and, often, medication. One way to boost your diabetes management is with essential oils, used in various ways to improve insulin sensitivity, manage body composition, and improve overall digestive wellness.

Diabetes and the Body

For a refresher on what diabetes is and how it works in the body, we can look to the American Diabetes Association for their summary of the more common variation of diabetes, type 2:

If you have type 2 diabetes your body does not use insulin properly. This is called insulin resistance. At first, your pancreas makes extra insulin to make up for it. But, over time it isn’t able to keep up and can’t make enough insulin to keep your blood glucose at normal levels.

On the other hand, type 1 diabetes is genetic and behaves differently:

In type 1 diabetes, the body does not produce insulin. The body breaks down the sugars and starches you eat into a simple sugar called glucose, which it uses for energy. Insulin is a hormone that the body needs to get glucose from the bloodstream into the cells of the body.

It’s important to have an understanding of the disease itself before we adjust our habits and supplemental efforts in response. For example, if you are using an essential oil with the goal of improving insulin sensitivity on most days, understanding that exercise can have a similar and even more potent result will help you make safe choices and avoid bottoming out. On the other hand, if you are a type 1 diabetic, no amount of insulin sensitivity will correct a lack of insulin.

Diabetes can have very serious and life-threatening complications, from poor wound healing to cardiovascular events. Never adjust your medications without the guidance of your physician, and if you suspect you may be diabetic, schedule a consult with your doctor right away.

Aromatherapy & Diabetes

Most of us are already familiar with substances that are beneficial for insulin sensitivity, with powdered cinnamon topping the list of kitchen remedies to help deal with blood sugar and diabetes. Aromatherapy has even more to offer – with some oils appearing to benefit the insulin response and others working to ease the symptoms that diabetes can cause.

For diabetes and essential oils, the key is to think outside of the box. If you are working toward weight loss to relieve the severity of your diabetes, then diffusingessential oils that energize and potentially benefit weight loss might be the way to go. If you’re trying to help a wound heal while diabetes hinders the process, an antiseptic and healing oil in a topical formula could do the trick.

Essential oils are best used as integrative components of our wellness routines. For the diabetic who now focuses their lifestyle toward managing both the causes and symptoms of the disease, having such a versatile toolkit can be a lifeline.

Here are some of the most useful oils for diabetes.

6 Ways to Use Essential Oils for Diabetes Management

1. Culinary Cinnamon Essential Oil

Probably the most researched botanical product for diabetes relief, cinnamon in general refers to a group of trees whose leaves or inner bark are distilled for its essential oil or the bark harvested as a spice. There are multiple varieties of the Cinnamom tree, including C. cassia, which we usually refer to as simply cassia when used for its essential oil.

The most heavily researched “angle” for cinnamon and diabetes is that of the powdered spice, with a great deal of focus placed on it for pancreatic support, glucose lowering, weight loss, and general diabetes prevention and management.

Research is moving through the best applications and preparations, though, and essential oils have made their appearance in the literature. In 2013, an evaluation of cinnamon leaf essential oil found that “all tested doses of [cinnamon essential oil] significantly lowered fasting blood glucose and fructosamine.” The researchers pointed to pancreatic support as the likely mechanism leading to the blood sugar benefits.

We don’t have an exact directive from studies and research to tell us how to maximize cinnamon’s potential for diabetic wellness, but we can glean some helpful tidbits:

Internal use seems to be the most effective.
Cinnamon in all forms appears to lower blood sugar.
A little dab’ll do!

Takeaway: Cinnamon essential oil may join the diabetic’s arsenal of culinary weapons against glucose. One or two drops for an entire day is a safe and sufficient amount – dilute it into a lipid and include it in recipes. Remember, cinnamon is a strong oil and can be an irritant if not used properly.

Be sure to monitor your blood sugar carefully when using cinnamon in any form, and consult with your doctor before adjusting medication. Your body might just respond a little TOO well to cinnamon’s strengths!

2. Blended Oils for Insulin Sensitivity

One of the most intriguing things about essential oils is the effect of synergy, which is the phenomenon in which combinations of oils work together to make even stronger effects. That’s why we’re so frequently making blends and formulas of oils rather than just using one here and another there. Teamwork makes the dream work, right?

One prominent study out of Georgetown in 2005 took note of the benefits of synergy when they studied essential oils and diabetes. Instead of isolating a single oil for their research, they experimented with blends of multiple oils that have been suggested as beneficial for diabetes. Oils named in the summary included :

Fenugreek
Cinnamon
Cumin
Oregano

The blends were able to improve insulin sensitivity when taken internally, which can be replicated by including oil blends diluted into a carrier and consumed in capsules, drinks, and recipes.

As a side note, surely it’s no accident that culinary herbs play a role in improving the way we digest and use food! God’s medicine has been right there around our dinner plates all along!

Takeaway: As you discover oils that can be a) used internally and b) used to improve causes like insulin sensitivity or symptoms of any sort, experiment with blends! Pre-mix your dilution by adding a few drops each of the oils you’d like to blend into a 5 ml or 10 ml bottle of a carrier oil.

3. Melissa Essential Oil for Glucose Regulation

Like cinnamon, some herbs and their essential oil are simply regarded as anti-diabetic. Those are the words anyone with a diagnosis or pre-diagnosis of diabetes wants to hear! Let’s fight this disease right at its core, where the body stops short of breaking down glucose into usable energy.

Like most early research, Melissa essential oil was tested on mice for precise tracking of its actions and potential benefits. Lab tests can first tell us the composition of oils, then how it is generally received in a body, and later how the human body responds in various circumstances.

The results of this study in particular were published in 2010 with exciting news. Of the mice that received a low-dose, heavily diluted amount of Melissa essential oil, markers of diabetes were reduced in multiple facets. Ultimately, the researchers concluded that Melissa “administered at low concentrations is an efficient hypoglycaemic agent, probably due to enhanced glucose uptake and metabolism.”

Once more, we see that it only takes minute amounts of these potent digestive health oils to make a potentially substantial difference for those battling blood sugar imbalances.

Takeaway: One drop is plenty, included in blends or diluted on its own for digestive assistance and potential glucose regulation. As with all hypoglycemic/anti-diabetic substances, be sure to monitor your levels carefully and work with your doctor closely.

4. Korean Pine for a New Scent with Strong Benefits

Moving away from the expected culinary herbs and their essential oil content, it seems you can still maintain anti-diabetic benefits while also branching out. Still very much in the foundational levels of research, Korean pine (Pinus koraiensis) has also exhibited potential for diabetes relief.

In the same vein as the Christmas favorite and year ‘round healer fir essential oil, Korean pine essential oil comes from the needles of an evergreen pine tree. It’s woodsy and grounding, the perfect addition to a blend of anti-diabetic oils we’ve looked at so far.

Researchers tackled this oil in 2013, very much in vitro, by injecting the oil into lab mice. The results were promising, with effects on the body that led to improved glucose levels. We won’t be injecting essential oils, of course, but this demonstrates the wide range of oil types that may be part of our anti-diabetes toolkit.

Takeaway: Don’t feel restricted with your diabetes-fighting blends! Look for oils like Korean Pine to mix up your approach. If it can’t be taken internally, enjoy diffusion or direct inhalation to begin to introduce the oil into your routine.

5. Essential Oils for Side Effects of Diabetes

This is where we really get to play with essential oils and the diabetic management lifestyle. Diabetes is so much more than how cookies or cakes are used by the body.Any time nutrient use is involved, the whole body is affected. Complications of diabetes can include:

Heart health
Oral health
Respiratory health
Skin health
Immune health

In other words, diabetes is a case study in the ways that each body system is intertwined with the others.

Using what we know about essential oils to boost these systems and potential complications, we can counter the effects of diabetes while managing the source of the issue with medication, diet, and lifestyle.

We can take this to its logical end and get creative with skin health and healing oils, oils for oral health, clear breathing oils, and antimicrobials. For a more specific look at how essential oils comprise complementary therapy, a systematic review had this to say about research that has been conducted:

Essential oils can be used to reduce the side effects of some complication (ulcer: loss of skin integrity) and to reduce that often take longer to resolve than in non diabetic patients. Essential oil[s] can also ameliorate the stress of the coping with a lifelong chronic condition such as diabetes.

The applications are endless here. If you or a loved one are diabetic, learn all you can about the various uses of essential oils, and begin to incorporate them into your life. The healing, restorative, and preventative benefits can quickly become your most trusted ally.

Takeaway: Diabetes complications can occur throughout the body, and essential oils can help to counter these issues and support the body’s intended processes. Look for anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and stress relieving oils as a start to your essential oil “medicine” cabinet.

6. Quality of Life Improvement for Kids with Diabetes

Lets not forget the kids who are impacted by diabetes. As a primarily genetic disorder, diabetes isn’t about who ate too much cake as they got older. Kids are affected to the tune of thousands, and many of them spend their lives in and out of doctor’s offices getting poked and prodded, not to mention those who receive daily injections.

Very recently, published in August 2015, researchers published findings on the use of essential oils to help relieve some of this stress and physical pain for kids with diabetes. Thankfully (and hardly surprising), markers for pain relief were noticeable thanks to diffused orange and lavender oils.

Incidentally, these oils are notable for their anxiety-relieving properties, as well, which only contributes to quality of life for kids who are faced with more than their little lives should have to deal with.

Takeaway: Diffusion of oils can help with anxiety relief and even direct pain relief, and even the most gentle of oils can be potent for this purpose. Diffuse oils during times when painful or frustrating procedures are necessary, or place drops on a handkerchief or other personal inhaler to “sniff” when needed.

Resources:

Tuesday, November 29, 2016

How to recognize some ingredients in the food? Lets take a look of Carrageenan ingredient.....

Carrageenan is a thickener made from red seaweed that can be found in a wide variety of common foods and beverages such as milk, coffee creamer, almond and soy milk, ice cream, sherbet, soup, pudding, salad dressing, and infant formula.

It’s also used in some vegetarian and vegan foods as a non-animal-source substitute for gelatin.

Carrageenan is not only used in foods. It can also be found in some toothpastes, medications, cosmetics, shoe polishes, and even weight loss products. Because of its laxative effect, some laxative medications contain it.(1)

Although the FDA has labeled carrageenan as Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS), there have been studies linking carrageenan to stomach ulcers and tumor promotion in animal testing.(2) Europe has even banned carrageenan from all types of infant formula because of the potential health concerns.(2)

Besides the possible safety issues with carrageenan, many people experience allergy or intolerance symptoms when they eat foods or beverages containing carrageenan.

Gastrointestinal complaints tend to be the most common symptom of a carrageenan allergy or intolerance, but other allergy symptoms are possible too.

Updated on March 8, 2016
Learn the symptoms of a carrageenan allergy or intolerance and find out what foods commonly contain carrageenan.
Learn the symptoms of a carrageenan allergy or intolerance and find out what foods commonly contain carrageenan. | Source
Carrageenan is a thickener made from red seaweed that can be found in a wide variety of common foods and beverages such as milk, coffee creamer, almond and soy milk, ice cream, sherbet, soup, pudding, salad dressing, and infant formula.

It’s also used in some vegetarian and vegan foods as a non-animal-source substitute for gelatin.

Besides the possible safety issues with carrageenan, many people experience allergy or intolerance symptoms when they eat foods or beverages containing carrageenan.

Gastrointestinal complaints tend to be the most common symptom of a carrageenan allergy or intolerance, but other allergy symptoms are possible too.

Carrageenan Poll

Do you have a carrageenan allergy or intolerance?

Yes
No
Not sure
No, but a family member or friend does
Vote
See results without voting
Carrageenan Allergy or Intolerance—Typical Gastrointestinal Symptoms:

Stomachache
Nausea
Abdominal cramping
Diarrhea
Vomiting
Gas/bloating
Other Carrageenan Allergy Symptoms Can Include:

Skin allergy (such as itching, hives or rash)
Anaphylaxis (3)
What Is Anaphylaxis?

Anaphylaxis is a sudden extreme form of an allergic reaction that affects the whole body. This reaction can include some, but not necessarily all of the following symptoms:

Rash

Swelling of the mouth, throat, or tongue

Trouble swallowing

Skin flushing

Slurred speech

Coughing

Mental confusion

Change in heart rate

Abdominal pain

Collapse

Unconsciousness.

Some Other Names for Carrageenan

Irish moss
Algas
Red marine algae
Galgarine
Chondrus extract
Chondrus crispus

Carrageenan Allergy Resources

https://www.cornucopia.org/shopping-guide-to-avoiding-orga…/

https://www.facebook.com/CarrageenanAllergyAwarenessNetwork/.

Chamomile (Matricaria Recutita)

Chamomile Benefits

The word chamomile actually refers to a range of different daisy-like plants, which are a member
of the Asteraceae family. There are many different species of chamomile, the two most commonly
being German chamomile (Marticaria recutita) and Roman chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile).
They have been used since Ancient times for their calming and anti-inflammatory properties, and
each offer their own additional health benefits.

Active Ingredients

The plant's healing properties come from its daisy-like flowers, which contain volatile oils (including
bisabolol, bisabolol oxides A and B, and matricin) as well as flavonoids (particularly a compound
called apigenin) and other therapeutic substances.

History

Chamomile is an age-old medicinal herb known in ancient Egypt, Greece and Rome. Chamomile's

popularity grew throughout the Middle Ages when people turned to it as a remedy for numerous

medical complaints including asthma, colic, fevers, inflammations, nausea, nervous complaints,

children's ailments, skin diseases and cancer. As a popular remedy, it may be thought of as the

European counterpart of the Chinese tonic Ginseng.

Habitat

Chamomile are native in many countries throughout Europe, and are cultivated in such countries
as Germany, Egypt, France, Spain, Italy, Morocco, and parts of Eastern Europe. The various different
Chamomile plants are very distinct and require their own set of conditions to grow. For example,
Roman chamomile is a perennial plant (meaning it will live more than two years). It grows close to
the ground and has smallish blossoming flowers. It tends to be bitter when used in teas. German
chamomile, on the other hand, is a sweeter variety. It is an annual plant and can grow large blossoms
up to three feet in height.

Health Benefits

Chamomile has been used for centuries in teas as a mild, relaxing sleep aid, treatment for fevers,
colds, stomach ailments, and as an anti-inflammatory, to name only a few therapeutic uses.
Chamomile may be used internally or externally. Extensive scientific research over the past 20
years has confirmed many of the traditional uses for the plant and established pharmacological
mechanisms for the plant's therapeutic activity, including antipeptic, antispasmodic, antipyretic,
antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-allergenic activity.

Recent and on-going research has identified chamomiles specific anti-inflammatory,anti-bacterial, muscle relaxant, antispasmodic, anti-allergenic and sedative properties, validating its long-held reputation. This attention appears to have increased the popularity of the herb and nowadays Chamomile is included as a drug in the pharmacopoeia of 26 countries.

Specifically, chamomile may:

As a tea, be used for lumbago, rheumatic problems and rashes.
As a salve, be used for hemorrhoids and wounds.
As a vapor, be used to alleviate cold symptoms or asthma.
Relieve restlessness, teething problems, and colic in children.
Relieve allergies, much as an antihistamine would.
Aid in digestion when taken as a tea after meals.
Relieve morning sickness during pregnancy.
Speed healing of skin ulcers, wounds, or burns.
Treat gastritis and ulcerative colitis.
Reduce inflammation and facilitate bowel movement without acting directly as a purgative.
Be used as a wash or compress for skin problems and inflammations, including inflammations of mucous tissue.
Promote general relaxation and relieve stress. Animal studies show that chamomile contains substances that act on the same parts of the brain and nervous system as anti-anxiety drugs. Never stop taking prescription medications, however, without consulting your doctor.
Control insomnia. Chamomiles mildly sedating and muscle-relaxing effects may
help those who suffer from insomnia to fall asleep more easily.
Treat diverticular disease, irritable bowel problems and various gastrointestinal complaints. Chamomiles reported anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic actions relax the smooth muscles lining the stomach and intestine. The herb may therefore help to relieve nausea, heartburn, and stress-related flatulence. It may also be useful in the treatment of diverticular disorders and inflammatory bowel conditions such as Crohn's disease.
Soothe skin rashes (including eczema), minor burns and sunburn. Used as a lotion or added in oil form to a cool bath, chamomile may ease the itching of eczema and other rashes and reduces skin inflammation. It may also speed healing and prevent bacterial infection.
Treat eye inflammation and infection. Cooled chamomile tea can be used in a compress to help soothe tired, irritated eyes and it may even help treat conjunctivitis.
Heal mouth sores and prevent gum disease. A chamomile mouthwash may help soothe mouth inflammations and keep gums healthy.
Reduce menstrual cramps. Chamomiles believed ability to relax the smooth muscles of the uterus helps ease the discomfort of menstrual cramping.

Chamomile Essential Oil

Chamomile oil is an essential oil extracted from the chamomile flower.

Chamomile essential oil is extracted from the blossom (flowers) of the plant. To extract oil from
the plants, most manufacturers use steam distillation. The flowers are placed in a still, where
hot steam is then applied. The steam — which must be hot enough to penetrate the plant
without burning it — forces the essential oil out of the plant so it can be collected independently.
The amount of oil each plant yields depends on the variety - fresh Roman chamomile flowers
tend to yield 1.7% essential oil, while German chamomile flowers yield only 0.2–0.4% essential oil.

Relaxation

The oil serves many medicinal purposes, but one of the best-documented uses is for relaxation
. The oil has a calming effect on people, and can be used to help induce sleep, ease frayed nerves,
and promote a general sense of calmness and well being. It is great for those with nervousness
or anxiety problems. Aside from having mental calming properties, chamomile is also good at
relaxing sore muscles and tight joints. It can ease menstrual cramps and back aches, as well as
relax the digestive system to ease upset stomach or indigestion issues. When applied topically
to the skin, it soothes redness and irritation. For this reason, it is a common ingredient in skincare. I
t also eliminates itchiness and is good for those with allergic reactions. Sometimes chamomile is
used on rashes. Because of its anti-inflammatory properties, it can work to take down swelling
caused by rashes or skin irritants.

Finally, the oil has antibacterial properties and can help to clean and protect wounds from infections.
It is commonly used as an all-natural remedy for dental abscesses, conjunctivitis, and other infections.

Consumption

There are a wide variety of ways in which chamomile essential oil can be ingested or applied on the
body, depending on the reason the product is being used. For example, the oil can either be applied
topically—when dealing with skin problems, or ingested orally—for upset stomach or other gastrointestinal
issues. To ingest the oil, it should be diluted into water, as only a small amount is highly potent. One to
two drops in a glass of water should be sufficient for using as a mouthwash or ingesting for stomach
problems. To use in a bath as an aromatherapy agent and muscle relaxant, less than 10 drops
should still be sufficient.

The scent of the essential oil can be inhaled as a form of aromatherapy. The oil can be vaporized for
aromatherapy use. This method works well to soothe nerves and headaches. It can be blended with
another oil, such as such as sesame, mineral, or olive, to be used for massaging aching muscles
and joints. Finally, the oil can be blended with other cream based lotions to provide relief from
rashes and irritated skin.

Other Uses

In addition to medicinal use, chamomile enjoys wide usage, especially in Europe and the U.S., as
a refreshing beverage tea and as an ingredient in numerous cosmetic and external preparations
. Rob McCaleb, President of the Herb Research Foundation in Boulder, Colorado estimates that
over one million cups of Chamomile tea are ingested worldwide each day, making it probably the
most widely consumed herbal tea.

Cautions

While chamomile essential oil is generally quite safely used by people of all ages, it is not recommended
for those who are pregnant. Additionally, it is recommended that those with strong allergies to plants
such as ragweed do a spot check on a small patch of skin before applying to the whole body. This
is because chamomile can, on occasion, cause allergic reactions.

If you suffer from allergies to plants of the Compositae family (a large group including such flowers
as daisies, ragweed, asters and chrysanthemums), you may wish to be cautious about using
chamomile at first. While there have been isolated reports of allergic reactions, causing skin
rashes and bronchial constriction, most people can use this herb with no problem.

References

Blumenthal M, Goldberg A, Brinckman J, eds. Herbal Medicine: Expanded Commission E Monographs. Newton, MA:
Lippincott Williams & Wilkins; 2000:57–61.

Lee SH, Heo Y, Kim YC. Effect of German chamomile oil application on alleviating atopic dermatitis-like immune alterations in mice
. Journal Veterinary Science. 2010;11(1):35–41.

McKay DL, Blumberg JB. A review of the bioactivity and potential health benefits of chamomile tea (Matricaria recutita L.).
Phytotherapy Research. 2006;20(7):519–530.

Natural Standard Database Web site. Accessed at www.naturalstandard.com on November 7, 2013.

Srivastava J, Shankar E, Gupta S (2011) Chamomile: A herbal medicine of the past with bright future. Mol Med 3: 895–901.

8 Benefits of Cypress Essential Oil

Cypress essential oil is obtained from the needle-bearing tree of coniferous and deciduous regions — the scientific name is Cupressus sempervirens. The cypress tree is an evergreen, with small, rounded and woody cones. It has scalelike leaves and tiny flowers. This powerful essential oil is valued because of its ability to fight infections, aid the respiratory system, remove toxins from the body, and work as stimulate that relieves nervousness and anxiety.

Cupressus sempervirens is considered to be a medicinal tree that has many specific botanical features. According to research published in BMC Complementary &Alternative Medicine, these special features include tolerance to drought, air currents, wind-driven dust, sleet and atmospheric gases. The cypress tree also has a well-developed root system and the ability to flourish in both acidic and alkaline soils.

The young twigs, stems and needles of the cypress tree are steam-distilled, and the essential oil has a clean and energizing aroma. The main constituents of cypress are alpha-pinene, carene and limonene; the oil is known for its antiseptic, antispasmodic, antibacterial, stimulating and antirheumatic properties.

8 Cypress Essential Oil Benefits

1. Heals Wounds and Infections

If you’re looking to heal cuts fast, try cypress essential oil. The antiseptic qualities in cypress oil are due to the presence of camphene, an important component. Cypress oil treats both external and internal wounds, and it prevents infections. A 2014 study published in Complementary & Alternative Medicine found that cypress essential oil possesses antimicrobial properties that inhibited the growth of test bacteria. The study noted that cypress oil can be used as a cosmetic ingredient in soap-making because of its ability to kill bacteria on the skin. It is also used to treat sores, pimples, pustules and skin eruptions.

2. Treats Cramps and Muscle Pulls

Because of cypress oil’s antispasmodic qualities, it inhibits problems associated with spasms, such as cramps and muscle pulls. Cypress oil is effective in relieving restless leg syndrome — a neurological condition characterized by throbbing, pulling and uncontrollable spasms in the legs. According to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Strokes, restless leg syndrome can lead to difficulty falling asleep and daytime fatigue; people who struggle with this condition often have difficult concentrating and fail to accomplish daily tasks. When used topically, cypress oil reduces spasms, increases blood circulation and eases chronic pain.

It is also a natural treatment for carpal tunnel; cypress oil effectively reduces the pain that is associated with this condition. Carpal tunnel is inflammation of a very smell opening just below the base of the wrist. The tunnel that holds the nerves and connects the forearm to the palm and fingers is very small, so it is prone to swelling and inflammation caused by overuse, hormonal changes or arthritis. Cypress essential oil decreases fluid retention, a common cause of carpal tunnel; it also stimulates blood flow and reduces inflammation.

Cypress essential oil improves circulation, giving it the power to clear up cramps, as well as aches and pains. Some cramps are due to a buildup of lactic acid, which is cleared away with cypress oil’s diuretic properties, thereby relieving discomfort.

3. Aids Toxin Removal

Cypress oil is a diuretic, so it helps the body flush out toxins that exist internally. It also increases sweat and perspiration, which allows the body to quickly remove toxins, excess salt and water. This can be beneficial to all systems in the body, and it prevents acne and other skin conditions that are due to toxic buildup.

This also benefits and cleanses the liver, and it helps lower cholesterol levels naturally. A 2007 study conducted at the National Research Center in Cairo, Egypt, found that isolated compounds in cypress essential oil, including cosmosiin, caffeic acid and p-coumaric acid, showed hepatoprotective activity. These isolated compounds significantly decreased glutamate oxaloacetate transaminase, glutamate pyruvate transaminase, cholesterol levels and triglycerides, while they caused a significant increase in the total protein level when given to rats. The chemical extracts were tested on rat liver tissues, and the results indicate that cypress essential oil contains antioxidant compounds that can rid the body of excess toxins and inhibit free radical scavenging.

4. Promotes Blood Clotting

Cypress oil has the power to stop excess blood flow, and it promotes the clotting of blood. This is due to its hemostatic and astringent properties. Cypress oil leads to the contraction of blood vessels, which stimulates the flow of blood and promotes the contraction of skin, muscles, hair follicles and gums. Its astringent properties allow cypress oil to tighten your tissues, strengthening hair follicles and making them less likely to fall out.

The hemostatic properties in cypress oil stop the flow of blood and promote clotting when needed. These two beneficial qualities work together to heal wounds, cuts and open sores quickly. This is why cypress oil is helpful in reducing heavy menstruation; it can also serve as a natural fibroid treatment and endometriosis remedy.

5. Eliminates Respiratory Conditions

Cypress oil clears up congestion and eliminates phlegm that builds up in the respiratory tract and lungs. The oil calms the respiratory system and works as an antispasmodic agent — treating even more severe respiratory conditions like asthma and bronchitis. Cypress essential oil is also an antibacterial agent, giving it the ability to treat respiratory infections that are caused by bacterial overgrowth.

A 2004 study published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry found that a component present in cypress oil, called camphene, inhibited the growth of nine bacteria and all yeasts studied. This is a safer alternative than antibiotics that can lead to damaging side effects like leaky gut syndrome and loss of probiotics.

6. Natural Deodorant

Cypress essential oil has a clean, spicy and masculine fragrance that lifts the spirits and stimulates happiness and energy, making it an excellent natural deodorant. It can easily replace synthetic deodorants because of its antibacterial properties — preventing bacterial growth and body odor. You can even add five to 10 drops of cypress oil to your house-cleaning soap or laundry detergent. It leaves clothes and surfaces bacteria-free and smelling like fresh foliage. This can be particularly comforting during the winter season because it stimulates feelings of joy and happiness.

7. Relieves Anxiety

Cypress oil has sedative effects, and it induces a calm and relaxed feeling when used aromatically or topically. It is also energizing, and it stimulates feelings of happiness and ease. This can be particularly helpful for people who are undergoing emotional stress, having trouble sleeping, or have experienced recent trauma or shock. To use cypress essential oil as a natural remedy for anxiety and anxiousness, add five drops of oil to a warm-water bath or diffuser. It can be especially helpful to diffuse cypress oil at night, beside your bed, to treat restlessness or symptoms of insomnia.

8. Treats Varicose Veins and Cellulite

Because of cypress oil’s ability to stimulate blood flow, it serves as a varicose veins home remedy. Varicose veins, also known as spider veins, occur when pressure is placed on blood vessels or veins — resulting in the pooling of blood and bulging of veins. According to the National Library of Medicine, this can be caused by weak vein walls or a lack of pressure exerted by tissues in the leg that allow the veins to transport blood. This increases the pressure inside of the veins, causing them to stretch and widen. By applying cypress essential oil topically, blood in the legs continues to flow to the heart properly.

Cypress oil can also help reduce the appearance of cellulite, which is the appearance of orange peel or cottage cheese skin on the legs, butt, stomach and back of the arms. This is often due to fluid retention, lack of circulation, weak collagen structure and increased body fat. Because cypress oil is a diuretic, it helps the body remove excess water and salt that can lead to fluid retention. It also stimulates circulation by increasing blood flow. Use cypress oil topically to treat varicose veins, cellulite and any other condition that is caused by poor circulation, such as hemorrhoids.

How to Use Cypress Essential Oil

It’s safe to use cypress oil aromatically and topically. When applying the oil to the skin, it is best to dilute it with a carrier oil, such as coconut or jojoba oil, before rubbing it into the skin. Here are some ways to use this essential oil in your everyday life:

Diffuse 5–7 drops of cypress oil in the home or office to create emotional balance, induce calm and energizing effects, and help with feelings of anxiousness or anxiety.
Apply topically, diluted with equal parts carrier oil, to treat arthritis, restless leg syndrome, cramps, asthma, bronchitis, cough or cold, carpal tunnel, and heavy periods. Simply rub the oil mixture into the effected area; this can be done 2–3 times daily, depending on your needs.
To reduce the appearance of cellulite, varicose veins, wounds, cuts or incisions, apply 2–3 drops of cypress oil to the area of concern.
Add 5 drops of cypress essential oil to a warm-water bath to treat respiratory conditions. You can also dilute cypress with a carrier oil and apply the mixture to the chest to work as a vapor rub. To reduce phlegm, add 3–5 drops of cypress oil to boiling water, place a towel over your head and breathe in the steam for 5–10 minutes.
To deodorize the home, add 5–10 drops of cypress oil to cleaning soap or add the oil to water and spray the mixture on curtains, sheets and couches; 1–2 drops of cypress oil can also be added to shoes, hats and jackets to prevent bacterial growth and body odor.
For hair and skin care, add 1–3 drops of cypress oil to your shampoo, conditioner or Homemade Face Wash. It is perfect for a deep clean, and it’s beneficial to the skin and hair because of its antimicrobial properties.
DIY Cypress Essential Oil Recipes

Try this Homemade Deodorant that is easy to make, healthy and cost-effective. Cypress essential oil is the perfect scent for male deodorant because of its spicy and masculine aroma.

You can also try this awesome Homemade Probiotic Deodorant with cypress essential oil. It contains no harmful chemicals, and it’s beneficial to your body.

Cypress essential oil blends well with lavender, bergamot, cedarwood, chamomile and ylang ylang oils. All of these oils have sedative properties and can be calming and soothing when used aromatically or topically. Blend your favorite oils, and add them to a warm water bath or massage oil. Use coconut oil for the base of any massage oil; when it is applied topically, coconut oil treats the skin by serving as a moisturizing and toning agent.

Safety Concerns with Cypress Essential Oil
It is not safe to use cypress essential oil internally. When used aromatically or topically, cypress oil is generally safe and non-toxic. It should also be avoided during pregnancy, and there is not enough research to support its safety for children. Make sure to perform a patch test before using cypress oil directly on the skin. It is safest to dilute cypress with a carrier oil before topical use.

Monday, November 28, 2016

Citrus Oils Are Breast Cancer Busters

I was introduced to the benefits of essential oils over 20 years ago and have since incorporated them in my practice. One type of oil that stands out when it comes to its effect on Breast Cancer is limonene, an extract of citrus peels, some spices and herbs. Although limonene has been used in the cosmetic and food industry for years, there are many studies that have shown limonene to have many anti-cancer benefits.

Before I discuss the anti-cancer benefits of limonene, here are many other compelling reasons to incorporate limonene in your diet.

1.) Limonene suppresses inflammationgrapefruit oil

2.) It has anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties. Candida overgrowth is a key culprit in constipation and suppression of the Immune System.

3.) A sluggish liver results in impaired detoxification pathways as well as the accumulation of gall stones. Limonene has been found to dissolve gall stones.

4.) It is a powerful antioxidant that has an anti-diabetic effect.

5.) Findings at the College of Oriental Medicine suggest that limonene can be a potent agent for the prevention and treatment of high cholesterol.

Powerful Breast Cancer Protection

There are decades of animal research as well as human research which explain the mechanism of how this essential oil affects the body. The evidence is compelling enough for WebMD.com to state that is it used to prevent and treat cancer.

Specifically for Breast Cancer, limonene activates Phase II detoxification of the liver which results in neutralizing cancer-causing chemicals and kills off cancer cells.

After ingesting 2 grams of limonene per day for 6 weeks before surgery, scientists found high concentrations of limonene in the breast tissue as well as reduced tumor growth. In fact, limonene has been shown to inhibit or prevent Breast Cancer development.

So how and why does this natural medicine work? Here are a few mechanisms of another Tumor Terminator:

1.) Inhibits the expressions of certain genes that turn on tumor cell formation.

2.) Inhibits the progression and promotion of cancer cells by blocking the cancer cells’ communication with each other.

3.) Lavender oil and limonene inhibit cell growth and cell cycle progression of Breast Cancer cell lines.

4.) Limonene is metabolized by humans and laboratory rats in the same manner. Limonene has been effective in pre-clinical models of Breast Cancer to cause more than 80% of carcinomas to regress with little host toxicity.

Not only are there benefits to ingesting limonene orally, but transdermal application to the breast may also have useful properties. Try using it and see how it will help you - https://www.mydoterra.com/naturepower/#/essentialOils101

Once again, Nature’s Farmacy has given us evidence that Hippocrates was right when he stated, “Let Food Be Your Medicine.” If you are serious about Breast Cancer prevention or if you are on a healing journey with Breast Cancer, consider adding limonene to your daily protocol. Enjoy!

Stay Healthy and Beautiful

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