Coconut Chicken Curry

Have you noticed, I keep referencing The Autoimmune Paleo Cookbook and Action Plan? It has been my survival guide on this new journey with Hashimotos because I have found the Action Plan very helpful, and the recipes delicious. So, here is yet another of my favorites.

Ingredients
1 Tbsp coconut oil
3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 Tbsp fresh grated ginger
1 1/2 cups chicken bone broth
1 cup unsweetened organic coconut milk
3 celery stalks
3 carrots, diced (or about 2 cups)
1 tsp tumeric
cilantro (optional)
sea salt

Directions
1. Place saucepan over med-high heat and add coconut oil. Saute chicken until lightly browned and almost cooked through.
2. Add garlic and ginger and saute about 2 minutes.
3. Add broth, coconut milk, celery, carrots, and tumeric. Bring curry to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer, stirring occasionally, until vegetables and chicken are tender, about 35 minutes.
4. Stir in cilantro and season with salt. Serve immediately.

AIP/Paleo Stir Fry

Ingredients
4-6 chicken thighs
EVOO
3 cloves garlic, minced
sea salt
1/2 red onion, chopped
1 Tbsp fresh grated ginger
1 cup broccoli florets
2 peeled and sliced carrots


Directions
1. Add oil to pan and lightly season chicken with salt to taste, add to pan over medium heat until cooked through.
2. Add garlic, ginger, and onion and saute until soft, about 5 minutes
3. Add broccoli, carrots, and cook until tender.

*this recipe is easily made vegetarian or vegan by eliminating the chicken and using 2 cups of broccoli
**You could also add snap peas

Grapefruit Salad

Yet another favorite of mine from the Autoimmune Paleo Cookbook and Action Plan. My husband would like to eat this every night!!

Ingredients

FOR THE DRESSING:

1/2 c EVOO

2 Tbsp apple cider vinegar

1 Tbsp local organic honey

1 tsp freshly squeezed lemon

Pinch sea salt

FOR THE SALAD:

3 cups spinach

2 red grapefruits, peeled, sectioned, and chopped

1/4 c dried cranberries

Directions

1. Whisk all dressing ingredients together until well combined and set aside.

2. Mix salad ingredients in large bowl.

3 Add dressing and toss. Eat it up!!

Pear-stuffed Pork Loin

Ingredients

1 4lb boneless pork loin

1 pear, peeled, cored, and chopped

1 cup mushrooms

1/4 c. dried cranberries

1/2 onion, chopped

2 cloves minced garlic

1/2 tsp thyme

1 tsp chopped fresh parsley

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 325. Cut pork loin lengthwise through middle, leaving 2 " connected all the way down the length. Open like a book, then cut each side horizontally almost all the way through so you can unfold the pork almost flat. Set aside.

2. Stir pear, mushrooms, cranberries, onion, garlic, thyme, and parsley in a med bowl until combined. Spread this mixture evenly over pork and roll the pork up tightly.

3. Tie the pork roll with kitchen twine at 2" intervals to hold together. Place the tied loin on a baking tray and roast until cooked through, about 1 hour.

Cauliflower-Bacon Soup

Oh yummy. This was dream-a-vicious. Thanks again to the Autoimmune Paleo Cookbook and Action Plan.

Ingredients

6 strips organic bacon, chopped

2 leeks, whites only, chopped

1 tsp minced fresh garlic

2 heads cauliflower, cut into small florets

6 cups Chicken bone broth

2 Tbsp chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

Directions

1. Fry bacon in saucepan, stirring frequently, until cooked and crispy, about 5 min. Transfer to a towel-lined plate and set aside.

2. Place saucepan back on heat without wiping, add leeks and garlic and sauce.

3. Add cauliflower and broth to saucepan and add water to cover if cauliflower is not covered by liquid by at least 1 "

4. Bring to boil, then reduce to low, simmering until cauliflower tender, about 20 minutes.

5. Transfer to a food processor and use and immersion blender and process. Pour soup back into pot and add bacon. Serve warm with fresh parsley.

Beef, Bacon Wrapped

Ingredients

4 round steaks (or something similar)

salt to taste

8 slices organic bacon

2 Tbsp EVOO

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 450 deg. Season steak with salt. Wrap each with 2 slices of bacon and secure with toothpicks

2. Place a large skillet over medium high heat and add olive oil. Sear each side of the steaks, about 4 min per side.

3. Transfer steaks to a parchment paper lined baking tray and roast about 6 minutes for medium doneness. 

4. Remove toothpicks and serve.

Honey-Thyme Beef Jerky

Who doesn't love good beef jerky? And who wants the extra chemicals? Thanks to Autoimmune Paleo Cookbook and Action Plan, I can have my jerky and eat it too!

Ingredients

3 Tbsp apple cider vinegar

2 Tbsp local organic honey

2 Tbsp water

1/2 tsp sea salt

1 tsp garlic powder

1 tsp dried thyme

2 lbs beef, such as London broil

Directions

1. Mix vinegar, honey, water, salt, garlic powder, and thyme in bowl. Set aside.

2. Slice beef very thinly across the grain, about 1/8 inch thick. 

3. Transfer meat slices to marinade. Toss to coat and place in fridge for 2 hours to a day.

4. Remove meat and lay strips on paper-towel- lined plate and pat dry. Line a large baking tray with foil and place on bottom rack of oven. Move top rack to highest position.

5. Thread beef pieces about 1" apart on wooden skewers, so that each skewer has about 7 pieces dangling from it.

6. Set skewers on top rack in oven so beef strips dangle between the bars. Repeat until all beef strips in oven.

7. Turn oven on to between 180-200 degrees. Prop door open about 2" and cook until turnkey is dry, about 8 hours.

8. Remove from skewers and let cool completely. Store in sealed container for up to 1 month in fridge.

Roasted Zucchini Salad

Ingredients
6 zucchini, sliced
1/2 onion, sliced
2 Tbsp balsalmic vinegar
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 c shredded fresh basil

Directions
1. Place zucchini and onion on parchment paper covered baking pan
2. Preheat oven to 450. Roast, turning once, until lightly browned and tender, about 10-15 minutes.
3. Transfer to a bowl and let cool for about 30 minutes. Then add balsalmic vinegar, salt, and basil. Toss to combine before serving.

Shrimp Scampi

Ingredients
1 Tbsp EVOO
3 tsp minced fresh garlic
1 lb (21-35 count) shrimp, peeled and deveined
1/2 c chopped fresh parsley
zest of 1/2 lemon
juice of 1 lemon

Direction
1. Place large skillet over med- hi heat and add olive oil. Saute the garlic until fragrant and soft.
2. Add the shrim and saute until pink and cooked, through, about 5 minutes.
3. Remove the skillet from the heat and add parsley, lemon zest, and lemon juice and toss to mix.

Vegetable and Chicken Curry- Paleo/AIP

Although many of the typical seasonings found in curry are eliminated for AIP, this dish is a tasty treat.

Ingredients
1 Tbsp coconut oil
2 lbs chicken breast or thigh, organic
2 cups mushrooms, diced
1 onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
2 cups broccoli florets
1 carrot, peeled and sliced
1 zucchini, sliced
1/2 c. unsweetened organic coconut milk (watch for thickeners in canned products- ie guar gum, etc)
1 tsp tumeric
1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
pinch cloves
salt to taste
2 Tbsp thinly shredded basil

Directions
1. Brown chicken until cooked through in coconut oil over medium heat.
2. Add mushrooms, onion, garlic, ginger and saute until soft.
3. Add broccoli, carrots, zucchini, coconut milk, seasonings and bring to a boil.
4.  Reduce heat to low and simmer until the vegetables are tender, about 15 minutes.
5. Stir in basil and serve immediately.

*This recipe can easily be made vegan by eliminating the chicken and increasing the amount of vegetables. I suggest 4 cups brocolli and add an extra carrot and extra zucchini.
**For those not AIP, this tastes good with rice.

Chicken Nuggets the Paleo Way

After years of adventuring with diet, exercise, and more, I FINALLY have an answer. I have an auto-immune disease called Hashimoto's, which affects your thyroid. So, this was the first of the recipes I attempted on AIP (Auto-immune paleo) and it was delicious!



Ingredients
4 Tbsp Arrowroot powder
1/2 tsp sea salt
1/8 tsp black pepper
1/4 tsp garlic powder
1 c organic coconut milk
2 cups shredded, unsweetened coconut
About 3 lbs of boneless, skinless organic chicken (I used a mix of breasts and thighs), cut into strips
EVOO

Directions
1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside
2. Mix arrowroot and seasonings into a small bowl. Pour coconut milk into a separate small bowl. Place the coconut on a plate.
3. Pat the chicken dry with a paper towel.
4. Dredge a chicken strip in arrowroot mixture, dip it into the coconut milk, then dredge it in the shredded coconut.
5. Place the coated strips on the baking sheet. Repeat until all chicken is breaded.
6. Lightly brush with olive oil, then baked until chicken is cooked through and coconut is golden, turning once, about 25 minutes

Meatless Chili Mexican Style

*this recipe is not completely eat clean*

Ingredients
yellow onion, diced
red bell pepper, diced
green bell pepper, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 Tbsp chili powder
2 tsp paprika
1 tsp cumin
dash of red pepper flakes
salt to taste
2 cans black beans
2 cans pinto beans
1 can red beans
1 can white beans
4-6 large tomatoes, diced and peeled
15 oz tomato sauce
1 1/2 c vegetable broth
1 can rotel (optional)
1 can diced green chilis

Directions
1. Saute onion, bell pepper, garlic until soft. Add seasoning and cook another few minutes.
2. Add remanning ingredients and bring to boil. Return heat to medium / low and simmer about 30 - 45 minutes.
3. Serve over brown rice, cornbread, or fritos. Add grated cheese, sour cream, chives, etc as desired.

Granny's Banana Nut Bread (Made Vegan!)

Ingredients
1/2 c non-dairy butter and/or coconut oil unrefined
1 tsp baking soda
1 c organic sugar (I like to mix brown, raw, stevia, etc)
1 c non-bleached organic flour (makes well with gluten free flour)
2 flax eggs
3 ripe bananas (mashed)
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp cinnamon
1/2 tsp vanilla
3/4 c pecans (chopped- optional)

Directions
1. Preheat oven to 350.
2. Grease and flour loaf pan.
3. Mix all ingredients and pour into loaf pan. Bake for 1 hour or until center is done.

Granny's tip: *place a pan of water on the shelf below the loaf pan to prevent over-browning)

Southern Potato Salad

From my Grandmother's kitchen to yours :)

Ingredients
7 Russet potatoes
5 organic, free range eggs
1 1/2 c healthy mayonnaise
2 Tbsp mustard
1 Tbsp dry paprika
1/2 Tbsp dill, chopped fine
salt and pepper to taste
Cajun season to taste (optional)

Directions
1. Place russet potatoes in water and boil for 20 minutes. Meanwhile, boil eggs for 8 minutes and peel.
2. Once potatoes are boiled, peel. Place in bowl with peeled, boiled eggs. Chop and blend coarsely with fork. Add remaining ingredients and stir well. Some prefer it chilled in fridge before serving, others eat it warm.

Tastes great with gumbo and / or bbq. That's how we do it Louisiana style...

BONUS: Citrus Fresh Essential Oil

I have been highlighting the 10 Young Living Oils from the Everyday Oil Collection (and today the 11th bonus!) that is included with the Premium Starter kit. This is, by far, the best way to get started with essential oil, as the kit includes 11 oils, a home diffuser, free samples to share, and lots of information. Click here to get started on your very own essential oils journey!

Well, we have come to the end of the 10 Everyday Oils. And I am sharing with you the 11th BONUS oil included in the Young Living Premium Starter kit. Thank you Citrus Fresh. You are amazing! Citrus Fresh is a blend of lemon, mandarin, tangerine, orange, grapefruit, and spearmint. Needless to say, it smells so fresh and summery. 

1.  Concentration: Diffuse while studying for a test to support memory recall and concentration.

2.  Mood booster: Diffuse Citrus Fresh for 20-30 minutes twice a day to create a cheery environment in your home or workplace.

3.  Perfume: Apply a couple of drops to the ears, heart or wrists and wear as a cologne or perfume.

4.  Hydrate: Make drinking your daily requirement of water (1/2 your body weight in ounces) a pleasure by adding a few drops of Citrus Fresh to your GLASS of water. (Don’t use plastic…essential oils etch or even dissolve petrochemical based products like plastic and styrofoam!)

5. Weight benefit: Some have found that drinking Citrus Fresh enhanced water helps them maintain a healthy weight.

6.  Scuff marks on the floor: Add a drop of Citrus Fresh to a cleaning rag and wipe them out!

7. Massage: Mix several drops of Citrus Fresh in V6 mixing oil for a full body massage to support the lymphatic system.

8.  Relaxation bath: Blend 11 – 20 drops with bath gel base and add to bath water for a relaxing bath.

9. Carpet freshener:  Combine 16 to 20 drops of essential oils with 1 cup of baking soda or borax powder. Mix well and place in a covered container overnight so that the oil can be absorbed by the powder. Sprinkle over your carpet and vacuum up the powder immediately to infuse a rejuvenating fragrance into the room.

10.  Stink-buster: A few drops of EO on a cotton ball hidden in inconspicuous places around the less fresh places, like trash cans, bathrooms,  cupboards, drawers, etc.

11.  Laundry aid: As the machine is filling up with water, add soap and a few drops of the Citrus Fresh.

12.  Goo-gone: Remove sticky residue from stickers and bandages with a drop of Citrus Fresh.

13. Energizer: Diffuse to boost your energy (and bonus--great smell!)

Now remember, not all oils are created equal. I can only speak for and the only oil company I recommend is Young Living. Please do not attempt to purchase this oil from a retail store. Most essential oils sold in stores is a completely different formula that is at best diluted and at worst adulterated. You can purchase any of these therapeutic grade oils from Young Living as a retail customer, but it is a much better value to purchase it as a wholesale member (24% less in fact)! This one is even included in the Young Living Essential Oils Premium Start Kit. For my story on getting started with oils, as well as more information on purchasing from Young Living, check this post out.


If you would like to sign up as a wholesale member or distributor under Ericka Soileau, visit YoungLiving.com, click on Sign Up and follow directions. Use # 2694668  as your enroller and sponsor # and/or contact erickafontenot@gmail.com for more information.

Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The information on this site is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please confirm any information obtained from or through this web site with other sources, and review all information regarding any medical condition or treatment with your physician. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment because of something you have read on this website. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any disease.

Tea Tree Essential Oil

I have been highlighting the 10 Young Living Oils from the Everyday Oil Collection that is included with the Premium Starter kit. This is, by far, the best way to get started with essential oil, as the kit includes 11 oils, a home diffuser, free samples to share, and lots of information. Click here to get started on your very own essential oils journey!

The last of the 10 oils to highlight in the Everyday Oils Collection is Tea tree oil. Aka Melaleuca Alternifolia. This bad boy is both powerful and gentle. It is commonly used for:

1. Acne: Make a face wash with 5 drops of Tea Tree and 2 tsp of raw honey, leave on 1 minute and rinse. Or add to your current natural face wash or cleanser. 

2. Expectorant: Aids the body in breaking up mucus

3. Mouth rinse: Naturally promotes healthy teeth and cleanses well

4. Hair help: Soothes dry and flaky skin, eliminates dandruff, and repels lice!

5. Household cleaner: Makes a nice homemade cleaner- In a glass spray bottle, add 1/2 cup white vinegar, 3 cups water, 10 drops of tea tree and 5 drops of lemon. Shake well. 

6. Fungus and ringworms: Apply undiluted to area (unless a young child or with very sensitive skin). Repeat 3 x per day

7. Warts: Dab a cotton swab in tea tree oil and apply to the area once per day for 10 days

8. Deodorant: great for eliminating odors, add to whipped coconut oil and baking soda to use as a deodorant

9. Rashes: Dilute and add to rashes to eliminate itchiness and promote healing

10. Ticks: Just add a drop and the sucker will usually come right off!

11. Breathing: Diffuse several drops in a diffuser for relief with breathing difficulties 

Now remember, not all oils are created equal. I can only speak for and the only oil company I recommend is Young Living. Please do not attempt to purchase this oil from a retail store. Most essential oils sold in stores is a completely different formula that is at best diluted and at worst adulterated. You can purchase any of these therapeutic grade oils from Young Living as a retail customer, but it is a much better value to purchase it as a wholesale member (24% less in fact)! This one is even included in the Young Living Essential Oils Premium Start Kit. For my story on getting started with oils, as well as more information on purchasing from Young Living, check this post out.

If you would like to sign up as a wholesale member or distributor under Ericka Soileau, visit YoungLiving.com, click on Sign Up and follow directions. Use # 2694668  as your enroller and sponsor # and/or contact erickafontenot@gmail.com for more information.

Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The information on this site is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please confirm any information obtained from or through this web site with other sources, and review all information regarding any medical condition or treatment with your physician. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment because of something you have read on this website. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any disease.

PanAway: Pain away!

I have been highlighting the 10 Young Living Oils from the Everyday Oil Collection that is included with the Premium Starter kit. This is, by far, the best way to get started with essential oil, as the kit includes 11 oils, a home diffuser, free samples to share, and lots of information. Click here to get started on your very own essential oils journey!

PanAway is the essential oil I am highlighting today. It is a nice pain-relieving blend that includes peppermint, wintergreen, clove, and helichrysum oils. 

1. Muscular pain: Rub on muscles to help alleviate soreness and discomfort

2. Headache: Rub PanAway on your temples and forehead to ease head tension

3. Sciatic pain: Rub 2-3 drops at the base of the spine to reduce nerve pain.

4. Joint pain in pets: For arthritic pets, massage several drops diluted with carrier oil on location

5.  Back massage: Incorporate PanAway into your next massage for an invigorating and pain- alleviating experience

6. Muscle cramp: Massage into the area to ease the pain

7. Shin splints: apply diluted to the shins to alleviate the discomfort. Alternate with ice therapy

8. Fibromyalgia: Dilute with carrier oil and massage/ rub in the areas of muscular pain

9. Bruising: Apply to the bruised area to speed healing and for an analgesic effect

10. Joint pain: Natural relief for joint discomfort 

11. Post-workout relief: Apply to the bottom of the feet as well as to localized problem areas for overall relief


Now remember, not all oils are created equal. I can only speak for and the only oil company I recommend is Young Living. Please do not attempt to purchase this oil from a retail store. Most essential oils sold in stores is a completely different formula that is at best diluted and at worst adulterated. You can purchase any of these therapeutic grade oils from Young Living as a retail customer, but it is a much better value to purchase it as a wholesale member (24% less in fact)! This one is even included in the Young Living Essential Oils Premium Start Kit. For my story on getting started with oils, as well as more information on purchasing from Young Living, check this post out.

If you would like to sign up as a wholesale member or distributor under Ericka Soileau, visit YoungLiving.com, click on Sign Up and follow directions. Use # 2694668  as your enroller and sponsor # and/or contact erickafontenot@gmail.com for more information.

Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The information on this site is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please confirm any information obtained from or through this web site with other sources, and review all information regarding any medical condition or treatment with your physician. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment because of something you have read on this website. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any disease.

Peppermint Essential Oil: Headache, Digestion, more...

I have been highlighting the 10 Young Living Oils from the Everyday Oil Collection that is included with the Premium Starter kit. This is, by far, the best way to get started with essential oil, as the kit includes 11 oils, a home diffuser, free samples to share, and lots of information. Click here to get started on your very own essential oils journey!

Is there a more delicious and refreshing smell than Young Living's Peppermint oil? I love that it smells like the real peppermint plant, rather than a fake sweet candy smell...more earthy. And I love it for so much more:

1. Fever reducer: Peppermint oil has natural cooling effects. Mix with coconut oil and rub on the child's neck and on the bottom of the feet  

2. Appetite suppressant: Diffuse or inhale during the desire to snack or before a meal. 

3. Headaches: Rub one drop on the temples, forehead, over the sinuses, on the back of the neck. Be sure to avoid the eyes (with this and any other essential oil)

4. Seasonal allergies: Use this in the allergy trio for  seasonal discomfort. Combine with 3 drops each of Peppermint, Lavender, and Lemon in a capsule and take daily, or diffuse. 

5. Concentration: Place 2 drops on the tongue, rub a drop under the nose to improve concentration and alertness. Great for a long drive!

6. Soothe an upset stomach: Inhale or rub on the abdomen for a minor stomachache. 

7. BAKING!: Oh yes, use peppermint oil to add flavor to your favorite desserts. Takes wonderful in brownies...

8. Poison Ivy relief: Dilute with a carrier oil (like coconut oil) and massage into affected area for relief

9. Sinus care: Inhale diffused peppermint oil to unclog your sinuses and relieve scratchy throats. It can act as an expectorant and may also relieve coughs and asthma as well. 

10. Stomach ache: This oil can be taken internally in a capsule form, and has been effective at treating irritable stomach issues

11. Tired, achy feet:  For tired feet, add a few drops with epsom salt to a foot bath to relieve sore, swollen, overworked feet

Now remember, not all oils are created equal. I can only speak for and the only oil company I recommend is Young Living. Please do not attempt to purchase this oil from a retail store. Most essential oils sold in stores is a completely different formula that is at best diluted and at worst adulterated. You can purchase any of these therapeutic grade oils from Young Living as a retail customer, but it is a much better value to purchase it as a wholesale member (24% less in fact)! This one is even included in the Young Living Essential Oils Premium Start Kit. For my story on getting started with oils, as well as more information on purchasing from Young Living, check this post out.

If you would like to sign up as a wholesale member or distributor under Ericka Soileau, visit YoungLiving.com, click on Sign Up and follow directions. Use # 2694668  as your enroller and sponsor # and/or contact erickafontenot@gmail.com for more information.

Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The information on this site is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please confirm any information obtained from or through this web site with other sources, and review all information regarding any medical condition or treatment with your physician. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment because of something you have read on this website. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any disease.

Purification Essential Oil: Purify your life

I have been highlighting the 10 Young Living Oils from the Everyday Oil Collection that is included with the Premium Starter kit. This is, by far, the best way to get started with essential oil, as the kit includes 11 oils, a home diffuser, free samples to share, and lots of information. Click here to get started on your very own essential oils journey!

Purification. Another great essential oil blend included in the Young Living Starter Kit. This is where I began my essential oils journey, and Purification and Thieves were the first two oils that I really latched onto right away because of the sicknesses that were underway at my house when my oils kit came in! Because it helps to purify and cleanse the air, I was diffusing it on and off to rid the illnesses from our halls :) And it worked!

Other uses for Purification:

1. Yucky car odors: I like to add a few drops of this oil blend to a cotton ball and use a clip or clothes pin to "diffuse" away the smells that can pile up in the SUV

2. Kick the cough: Diffuse 4-5 drops to assist in getting rid of a cough

3. Acne: Add purification to your current healthy moisturizer or toner and apply twice daily or add directly to blemishes using a cotton swab

4. Laundry refresh: Add Purification to the washing machine to freshen stale laundry

5. Insect repellant: Dilute several drops of this essential oil blend in a glass spray bottle. Shake before use and spray to repel those pests! You can also add a few other oils like Citronella, Clove, Lemongrass, Rosemary, Tea Tree, Cajeput, Eucalyptus, Cedar, Catnip, Lavender, or Mint, as well as Witch Hazel. 

6. Shoe Stink Be Gone: Add a couple of drops to shoes to help neutralize odors

7. Eliminate the trash fragrance: Add to a cotton ball and place at the bottom of trash receptacles 

8. Purify the air: Diffuse Purification to dispel unpleasant odors, remove impurities, rid of illness. I like to use this in hotels when traveling! 

9. Relieve blisters: Apply 1-2 drops to a blister to fight infection and speed healing

10. Soothe the throat: Rub Purification oil to the outside of the neck for relief

11. Deodorant: Simple, all-natural. Simply rub a few drops to each armpits daily. Add a drop of sage oil for anti-perspirant as well. 

Now remember, not all oils are created equal. I can only speak for and the only oil company I recommend is Young Living. Please do not attempt to purchase this oil from a retail store. Most essential oils sold in stores is a completely different formula that is at best diluted and at worst adulterated. You can purchase any of these therapeutic grade oils from Young Living as a retail customer, but it is a much better value to purchase it as a wholesale member (24% less in fact)! This one is even included in the Young Living Essential Oils Premium Start Kit. For my story on getting started with oils, as well as more information on purchasing from Young Living, check this post out.

If you would like to sign up as a wholesale member or distributor under Ericka Soileau, visit YoungLiving.com, click on Sign Up and follow directions. Use # 2694668  as your enroller and sponsor # and/or contact erickafontenot@gmail.com for more information.

Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The information on this site is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please confirm any information obtained from or through this web site with other sources, and review all information regarding any medical condition or treatment with your physician. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment because of something you have read on this website. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any disease.

Lemon Essential Oil: Antioxidant and More

I have been highlighting the 10 Young Living Oils from the Everyday Oil Collection that is included with the Premium Starter kit. This is, by far, the best way to get started with essential oil, as the kit includes 11 oils, a home diffuser, free samples to share, and lots of information. Click here to get started on your very own essential oils journey!

Dare I say it again? Here comes another of my favorites of the Everyday Oil Collection. The key here is "everyday." Because I seriously use it that often. Lemon essential oil is another versatile and amazing little creation of our Lord! 

But here's another reason why I am a *little* obsessed with it:  Lemon oil consists of 68 percent dlimonene, which is an extremely powerful antioxidant. It is delightfully refreshing in water and very good for you. Because most American’s have very acidic bodies and diseases like cancer have been found to thrive in acidic conditions,  lemon oil helps by neutralizing the acidity when ingested. Lemon water made with essential oils is A THOUSAND TIMES better for you than a lemon squeezed into your beverage. Why? Lemon essential oil is cold-pressed from the rinds of thousands of lemons. 

Here are some other of my favorite uses:
1. Natural cleaner: add a few drops to water and clean away! Put this in a GLASS spray bottle to clean and sanitize surfaces. 

2. Veggie and fruit wash: Submerge your fruit in purified water and add 2-3 drops of lemon. (Make sure it is a therapeutic grade essential oil like Young Living)

3. Stain remover: Add a few drops directly to stain and rub, or add 10-15 drops directly to wash water

4. Constipation: Dilute 1 drop in 5-10 drops coconut oil and massage clockwise over abdomen

5. Furniture polish: Add a few drops to olive oil

6. Runny nose: Rub lemon oil on the outside of your nostrils to dry up a runny nose.

7. Natural goo-gone: Use 1-2 drops to remove gum, oil, sticker residue, grease spots, glue, crayons, and more!

8. Cellulite: Massage lemon essential oil into cellulite to help improve circulation and eliminate waste from cells

9. Quick pick me up: Inhale lemon oil or place a few drops on a cotton ball to replenish yourself

10. Cooking: Add a few drops to chicken marinade for a delicious dinner 
11. Hydration: Add 1-2 drops to a large GLASS or STAINLESS STEEL cup to reduce body acidity and refresh

12. Mucus drainage: Cold getting you clogged? Lemon essential oil can help you overcome that cold fast. It can aid lymphatic drainage, so mix it with carrier oil like EVOO or coconut oil and rub behind the ears and on your neck. 

Important information: Lemon is photosensitive, so you will want to prevent having it on any exposed skin when going out into the sun. Additionally, lemon eats up petrochemicals and should only be placed in glass or stainless containers, as it will eat through plastic!

Now remember, not all oils are created equal. I can only speak for and the only oil company I recommend is Young Living. Please do not attempt to purchase this oil from a retail store. Most essential oils sold in stores is a completely different formula that is at best diluted and at worst adulterated. You can purchase any of these therapeutic grade oils from Young Living as a retail customer, but it is a much better value to purchase it as a wholesale member (24% less in fact)! This one is even included in the Young Living Essential Oils Premium Start Kit. For my story on getting started with oils, as well as more information on purchasing from Young Living, check this post out.

If you would like to sign up as a wholesale member or distributor under Ericka Soileau, visit YoungLiving.com, click on Sign Up and follow directions. Use # 2694668  as your enroller and sponsor # and/or contact erickafontenot@gmail.com for more information.

Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The information on this site is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please confirm any information obtained from or through this web site with other sources, and review all information regarding any medical condition or treatment with your physician. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment because of something you have read on this website. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any disease.

Fruit Salad with Honey Lime Dressing

Ingredients
1 lb strawberries, diced
1 lb pineapple, diced
12 oz blueberries
12 oz red grapes
2 kiwis, peeled and diced
15 oz mandarin oranges, drained well

Dressing:
1/4 c honey
2 tsp lime zest (or zest of 2 limes)
1 Tbsp lime juice
2 drops Citrus Fresh essential oil (optional)

Directions
1. Combine all fruit in large mixing bowl.
2. In separate bowl, whisk together honey, lime zest, lime juice and Citrus Fresh. Pour over fruit just before serving and toss evenly to coat.

Frankincense Essential Oil: Sacred Healing

I have been highlighting the 10 Young Living Oils from the Everyday Oil Collection that is included with the Premium Starter kit. This is, by far, the best way to get started with essential oil, as the kit includes 11 oils, a home diffuser, free samples to share, and lots of information. Click here to get started on your very own essential oils journey!

Wow, does Frankincense ever smell amazing. It is incredibly powerful as well. 

1. Skin tags, scars, wrinkle: Apply/massage 1-2 drops directly, once daily until gone

2. Sadness: Start the day by rubbing a drop of Frankincense onto the crown of the head or use aromatically

3. Cellular support: Fights malignant, abnormal cell growth

4. Immune boost: Massage frankincense oil to the spine or on the bottom of the feet (diluted with children) to boost the immune system. It can also be taken in capsule form. 

5. Strengthen Fingernails: Massage 1 drop across each set of nails daily.

6. Calming: Place a drop in the palm, rub the hands together, cup hands over mouth and take a few deep breaths

7. Respiratory care: Use diluted with carrier oil as a chest rub to improve breathing, or diffuse. This helps to break up mucus

8. Concentration: Diffuse to improve focus

9. Inflammation: Massage to the inflicted area or dissolve a drop under the tongue

10. Oral Health: Use as a preventative for oral issues. Make your own toothpaste with frankincense oil and baking soda

11. Diuretic: Helps to reduce water in the body through urination

Now remember, not all oils are created equal. I can only speak for and the only oil company I recommend is Young Living. Please do not attempt to purchase this oil from a retail store. Most essential oils sold in stores is a completely different formula that is at best diluted and at worst adulterated. You can purchase any of these therapeutic grade oils from Young Living as a retail customer, but it is a much better value to purchase it as a wholesale member (24% less in fact)! This one is even included in the Young Living Essential Oils Premium Start Kit. For my story on getting started with oils, as well as more information on purchasing from Young Living, check this post out.

If you would like to sign up as a wholesale member or distributor under Ericka Soileau, visit YoungLiving.com, click on Sign Up and follow directions. Use # 2694668  as your enroller and sponsor # and/or contact erickafontenot@gmail.com for more information.

Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The information on this site is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please confirm any information obtained from or through this web site with other sources, and review all information regarding any medical condition or treatment with your physician. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment because of something you have read on this website. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any disease.

Joy Essential Oil: Mood boosting

I have been highlighting the 10 Young Living Oils from the Everyday Oil Collection that is included with the Premium Starter kit. This is, by far, the best way to get started with essential oil, as the kit includes 11 oils, a home diffuser, free samples to share, and lots of information. Click here to get started on your very own essential oils journey!

Today, I am highlighting Joy! This is a blend including Lemon, Rose, Roman Chamomile, Jasmine, Ylang Ylang, Bergamot and more!! Most of these oils are known for their uplifting and mood improving qualities. 

It has a very floral aroma, and I find it lovely. If I am not wearing my Stress Away as perfume, then I am wearing Joy! I was always a sceptic in terms of essential oils and mood enhancement. And then I read: 

Because the limbic system is directly connected to those parts of the brain that control heart rate, blood pressure, breathing, memory, stress levels, and hormone balance, essential oils can have profound physiological and psychological effects… Olfactory responses to odors induce the brain to stimulate the release of hormones and neurochemicals that in turn alter the body’s physiology and behavior. 
Essential Oil Desk Reference, 4th Edition

Having a doctorate in physical therapy, I am about all things of science and anatomy. Learning about how essential oils affect the limbic system and other areas of the brain and body has truly been fascinating. 

1. Bring joy: Rub a drop on your wrists, neck, over your heart.

2. Low back pain: Mix 1-2 drops with 1 TBSP of coconut or other carrier oil and apply to low back once per day.

3. Alleviate menstrual cramps: Rub 2 drops of Joy directly over abdomen. You can also top with a warm compress for added benefit. 

4. Brighten the day: Diffuse 2-5 drops and improve the mood of the household.

5. Improve circulation: Massage 2-3 drops of Joy into an area to aid circulation

6. Natural car freshener: Add a few drops to a cotton ball and clip to the A/C output vent to add a nice scent and uplift of mood in the car

7. Baby blues: Diffuse or inhale postpartum to improve those baby blues or other times of low moods

8. Massage: Combine with a carrier oil for an excellent and happy massage

9. Reduce stress: Calm your body naturally and combat stress by applying on the wrists or inhaling

10. Increase woman's libido: Especially when combined with Idaho blue spruce, but even all on it's own, this wonderful oil can boost libido naturally

Now remember, not all oils are created equal. I can only speak for and the only oil company I recommend is Young Living. Please do not attempt to purchase this oil from a retail store. Most essential oils sold in stores is a completely different formula that is at best diluted and at worst adulterated. You can purchase any of these therapeutic grade oils from Young Living as a retail customer, but it is a much better value to purchase it as a wholesale member (24% less in fact)! This one is even included in the Young Living Essential Oils Premium Start Kit. For my story on getting started with oils, as well as more information on purchasing from Young Living, check this post out.

If you would like to sign up as a wholesale member or distributor under Ericka Soileau, visit YoungLiving.com, click on Sign Up and follow directions. Use # 2694668  as your enroller and sponsor # and/or contact erickafontenot@gmail.com for more information.

Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The information on this site is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please confirm any information obtained from or through this web site with other sources, and review all information regarding any medical condition or treatment with your physician. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment because of something you have read on this website. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any disease.

Stress Away Essential Oil: Calming

I have been highlighting the 10 Young Living Oils from the Everyday Oil Collection that is included with the Premium Starter kit. This is, by far, the best way to get started with essential oil, as the kit includes 11 oils, a home diffuser, free samples to share, and lots of information. Click here to get started on your very own essential oils journey!

Another of my favorites. I have to share Stress Away next. I actually wear this amazing blend as a perfume because it smells A-Maze-Ing.

This blend including lime, vanilla, copaiba and cedarwood leads to calming and relaxation naturally!

1. Perfume: dab on wrist and neck and smell amazing

2. Calming for kids: Diffuse and dab (diluted) to the back of the neck when the children get wound up

3. Sleep: Roll on the back of the neck before bed as a sleep aid

4. Relaxation: Rub along the muscles of your neck and on temples when you are feeling tense

5. Stress Away: Just as the name suggest, diffuse or inhale to ease stressful symptoms

6. Relaxing Bath: add a few drops to some epsom salt and add that to a warm bath. m                                                                

7. Enhance your mood: Diffuse or rub on neck for mood balancing

8. Great gift: A great gift to give to someone you care about who is dealing with a lot of stress

9. PMS: wear as a perfume, diffuse, or inhale from the bottle for relief from PMS symptoms

10. Anxiety: Individuals prone to high anxiety levels have found great benefit using Stress Away topically and aromatically.

Now remember, not all oils are created equal. I can only speak for and the only oil company I recommend is Young Living. Please do not attempt to purchase this oil from a retail store. Most essential oils sold in stores is a completely different formula that is at best diluted and at worst adulterated. You can purchase any of these therapeutic grade oils from Young Living as a retail customer, but it is a much better value to purchase it as a wholesale member (24% less in fact)! This one is even included in the Young Living Essential Oils Premium Start Kit. For my story on getting started with oils, as well as more information on purchasing from Young Living, check this post out.

If you would like to sign up as a wholesale member or distributor under Ericka Soileau, visit YoungLiving.com, click on Sign Up and follow directions. Use # 2694668  as your enroller and sponsor # and/or contact erickafontenot@gmail.com for more information.

Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The information on this site is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please confirm any information obtained from or through this web site with other sources, and review all information regarding any medical condition or treatment with your physician. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment because of something you have read on this website. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any disease.

Thieves Essential Oil: Combatting Illness

I have been highlighting the 10 Young Living Oils from the Everyday Oil Collection that is included with the Premium Starter kit. This is, by far, the best way to get started with essential oil, as the kit includes 11 oils, a home diffuser, free samples to share, and lots of information. Click here to get started on your very own essential oils journey!

I guess I may say this about most of the oils in the Young Living Everyday Collection...but I LOVE THIEVES!! Truly I have seen so often sicknesses being combatted quicker or not getting passed along because of this blend of essential oils. And did I mention I think it smells incredible!

I love the story behind this blend. Young Living’s Thieves essential oil blend was named after and created based on the historical account of four thieves in France who covered themselves with cloves, rosemary, and other aromatics while robbing plague victims. When the thieves were finally captured, they were offered a lighter sentence in exchange for their secret for evading the deadly disease. Their mixture was then posted around town to help others prevent themselves from getting sick!

Thieves oil blend includes clove, cinnamon bark, rosemary, lemon, and Eucalyptus radiata. Thieves has been university tested and found to be highly effective against airborne bacteria.

1. Immune System Support: Rub 1-2 drops on the bottom of the feet (this is the part of your body with the largest pores). Remember to dilute with carrier oil for children. Also, you can put 2-3 drops of Thieves in a capsule and swallow one a day.

2. Cleanse the Air: Diffuse Thieves oil blend for 15-30 minutes in your home or office to help eliminate airborne bacteria and prevent illness spreading. This also eliminates mold in the air. 

3. Sore Throat: Mix with a TBSP of water, gargle and swallow. Or Make a homemade throat spray in a 4 oz glass spray bottle! Simply place 20-30 drops of Thieves in the bottle, then fill with filtered/ purified water. Shake well before each spray, and then spray in throat for sore throat relief.

4. Homemade hand sanitizer: In a 2 oz squeeze bottle, combine 2 TBSP of aloe vera gel, 1 TBSP purified water, 1/8 tsp vit E oil, 5 drops of Thieves. 

5. Tea for illness: Check this tea recipe out, from Bargain Blessings

6. Toothache and oral health: Apply to gums and teeth for pain relief from toothaches. Applying this blend orally also helps to maintain healthy teeth and reduce cavities. Young Living sales a number of oral and home products with this blend, including toothpaste and mouthwash

7. DIY cleaner spray: Place 20 drops of thieves in a 4 oz glass bottle with half tsp of salt. Fill with distilled water. Use in place of disinfectant chemical cleaners

8. Sanitize the dishwasher: Place a few drops of Thieves in the dishwasher, then run it on the sanitize cycle.

9. Cold Sore: Place 1 drop on cold sores to promote healing

10. Headaches: Put a drop on our tongue and press to the roof of your mouth

11. Carpet cleaning: Place a few drops in the carpet steamer to disinfect carpet

Now remember, not all oils are created equal. I can only speak for and the only oil company I recommend is Young Living. Please do not attempt to purchase this oil from a retail store. Most essential oils sold in stores is a completely different formula that is at best diluted and at worst adulterated. You can purchase any of these therapeutic grade oils from Young Living as a retail customer, but it is a much better value to purchase it as a wholesale member (24% less in fact)! This one is even included in the Young Living Essential Oils Premium Start Kit. For my story on getting started with oils, as well as more information on purchasing from Young Living, check this post out.

If you would like to sign up as a wholesale member or distributor under Ericka Soileau, visit YoungLiving.com, click on Sign Up and follow directions. Use # 2694668  as your enroller and sponsor # and/or contact erickafontenot@gmail.com for more information.

Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The information on this site is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please confirm any information obtained from or through this web site with other sources, and review all information regarding any medical condition or treatment with your physician. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment because of something you have read on this website. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any disease.