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.

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.

Lavender Essential Oil: The Swiss Army Knife of Oils

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 can't stop sharing all my oily stories, and keeping track of all the wonderful testimonials we have here with essential oils. I am loving and learning constantly about the oils in my Young Living Premium Starter Kit.

I am so in love with lavender. I love the way it smells. I love its versatility. I love the way it makes me feel! And because it is one of the most common and the most versatile oils, I thought this is a great oil to share about first with all of you!

My favorite uses of lavender:

1. Cuts, scrapes, and burns: For the little ones, I dilute 5 drops in 2 TBSP of coconut oil and keep in an old jelly jar to put on the inevitable cuts and scrapes. It brings relief, stops bleeding, kills bacteria, cleans the wound, and promotes healing

2. Detox and relaxation bath: Place 1/2 to 1 full cup epsom salt and 2 TBSP baking soda to the bottom of the bath tub. Add about 5 drops of Lavender Oil and stir around. Add warm water, climb in and relax!

3. Rashes: Add 2-3 drop (diluted if on children) to the rash to stop itching and support healing

4. Calm an excited pet: Rub a few drops of Lavender Oil to your pet's collar. Our dog really needs this during thunderstorms!

5. Insomnia: Mix with purified water and spritz onto pillow, or rub 1 drop onto your palm and apply to pillow to help with sleep

6. Allergies: As a single oil, swipe inside cheek or place a drop under the tongue for allergies. Beat the seasonal congestion with the allergy trio: combine 3 drops each of lavender, peppermint, and lemon in a glass of water. Drink one glass 3 times per day. You could also diffuse this mix of oils.

7. Stress and mood: Lavender is naturally calming. Apply directly to wrists, back of neck, inhale from bottle, or diffuse

8. Sunburn relief: Combine 1 oz purified water, 4 drops of lavender oil, 1 drop peppermint oil and a tsp (or more for the kiddos) of Aloe Vera. Apply to sunburned skin.

9. Cold sores: Put 1 drop on a cold sore to promote healing

10. Immune booster: place a drop in a TBSP of honey and consume

11. Bee sting or bug bite: Put a drop of lavender to reduce itching and swelling

12. Nausea or motion sickness: To alleviate the symptoms of motion sickness, place a drop of Lavender oil on the end of the tongue, behind the ears, or around the navel.

13. Dandruff: Rub a drop of oil on the scalp to eliminate dandruff.

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 lavender from a retail store. The lavender that is sold in stores is a completely different formula that is at best diluted and at worst adulterated. You can purchase Lavender Oil 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)! Lavender 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.

It was only a matter of time...Essential Oils

Well, I suppose it was bound to happen. We have been cleaning up our food, cleaning up our house, supporting local farmers, sustainable practices, avoiding GMO, eating organic and all the like. It has become a passion to respect the goodness of God's design and try to live as close to natural as we can in this synthetic world. I am a natural birth proponent, and have always felt that God has designed our bodies to birth naturally, often with minimal medical interference, induction, etc. I thank God for modern medicine when this is not possible, and when emergencies arise. Otherwise, in normal, healthy situations, the Lord designed our bodies for incredible things. So, it wasn't such a leap for me to begin to realize that modern pharmaceuticals are much the same...thank God for them because they help us so much! But, it seems the medical field is in crisis and the over-prescribing, over-medicating, etc is becoming detrimental to our health. I have found that just as God has created our bodies for amazing things, he has also created the world full of wonderful, natural aids to our health! Hence, essential oils. 

I just moved from one state to another, and a wonderful friend that I met at church had an essential oils class at her house. Since then, I have been using and learning so much about essential oils. Unfortunately, with the time of year, the construction going on in our new home, etc, we have had a few sicknesses, and have been getting over them so well and fast using essential oils. I have been amazed. I had tried essential oils before- things I got at health food stores, etc, with no luck. 

At this class, I learned that FDA says you can call something pure or organic essential oil, and it have only 5% of that actual oil. That means that 95% could be those nasty chemical fillers! No wonder they did nothing. At the class, I learned about why they recommeded Young Living...they have been providing therapeutic grade essential oils for 20+ yrs, and are actually being used in various medical and university studies, as well as in some hospitals to combat MRSA. Further, just like I like to know where our food is coming from, Young Living offers the same promise- they have their own farms and a tight supply chain, with a seed to seal guarantee. I feel confident I am getting a pure and unadulterated oil that is manufactured for therapeutic use, not just for smell. All oils are not created equal!

I also always thought there was no science behind it, and as I am reading about that side of things, it really amazes me how God truly created this world in such an amazing way with these naturally occurring plants and herbs that are making huge differences in the world, in our health, medically. On average, each essential oil contains over 100  medical components with more being discovered every day! 

I can't help but sharing our story, and am getting asked about how to get started with essential oils. Well, thankfully, Young Living has a set of basic common-use oils, called the Everyday Oils collection.  Here is a great video 101 class that discusses these oils and getting started. This is where I began, and where I recommend starting your journey. I love this 101 video about essential oils, descriptions of some of the oils, etc.

What Comes in the Premium Starter Kit

• 10 full 5ml bottles of essential oils (not just samples folks!) including Lavender, Peppermint, Lemon, Tea Tree, Frakincense, PaAway, Thieves, Purification, Stress Away, and Joy 

• A home diffuser (retail value alone on this one is $96)
• Essential oils user’s guide
• Citrus Fresh 5-ml BONUS!
• AromaGlide Roller Fitment (to turn any oil into a roll on)
• Two sample packets each of Lavender, Peppermint, Peace & Calming, Lemon, and Thieves (for you to share with your friends!)
• two NingXia Red 2-oz. samples (this is a great supplement for energy)

Here's a great tutorial video on how to enroll.

My member name and number is Ericka Soileau 2694668  You will need this!!!

Mary&Martha

Well, I realize this is a cooking blog....

BUT...It is always nice to have beautiful ware to cook and serve in and entertain with!

So here's my new venture. I am now a consultant for Mary&Martha- your one stop shop for quality Christian home goods. http://www.mymaryandmartha.com/ERICKA/

Come on over and shop. Message me if you have questions. Pass along to friends and family!

Dr. Hyman's 10 Day Detox to Burn Fat and Lose Weight: My Review

My goals: WEIGHT LOSS! I have 20 lbs to lose, hoping to shed a few in this 10 day stretch. And to reboot the system, so to speak. As per this video...http://www.doctoroz.com/episode/detox-diet-burn-fat-and-lose-weight-fast

Caveats and things I learned:
*These are descriptions of things about the diet and the ways I changed or substituted things, etc. I am not recommending that you necessarily change or leave out what I changed or omitted. I am just giving an honest overview of my experience so that you can gauge my success or lack thereof ;)*
1. Per the diet, fiber powder should be taken before each meal. Not just any brand is recommended. The one highlighted has Konjac root and seaweed. The brand is Well BetX PGx--they have pills or power. Use 2.5 to 5 g 30-60 min before each meal. Overall, the goal of any fiber is to cut cravings and help balance blood sugar, also helping you feel fuller longer. Soluble fiber is most effective in aiding weight loss, though most sources recommend a mix of a higher amount of soluble fiber and a smaller amount of insoluble fiber. I did not use the brand they recommended. Looks amazing, but I thought I would try what I had first in an attempt to cut costs a bit. Additionally, I only took fiber before lunch. I am not good at remembering to take vitamins and such outside of my routine. 
2. Drink breakfast- don't eat it! Smoothie recipe is given for you on list above. There are more smoothie recipes (and meal recipes) in the book. I could not find hemp seed, so I replaced it with flax seed. I could not find frozen cranberries, so I used 1/4 c dried.
3. Make sure you have a multivitamin.  I like to take half in the morning and half at lunch. They also recommend Chromium, 2000 U Vit D3 and 2 g fish oil. I added a probiotic and alternated salmon oil and flax oil for omega 3s rather than fish oil. I did not take Vit D3 on a regular basis.
4. Info page on Dr Oz recommends deep breathing, journaling, exercise. The only deep breathing I did was in my sleep. 3 kids under 5 so this blog is about the extent of my journaling. But my faith is very important and I feel that connecting with God in prayer is more important in my life than journaling. I exercised regularly.
5. Dr Oz also recommends a detox bath each night: 2 c epsom salt, 1/2 c baking soda, 10 drops lavender oil. I did not do this every night, but tried.
6. I also sporadically drank green tea and dandelion root tea. There are so many health benefits to it, I could not give it up. I drink it straight or with lemon, no sweeteners, etc. And I always try to drink 60 ounces of water per day


What I Ate:
Day 1
Breakfast: Green Tea with Lemon and a Smoothie
Lunch: Spinach salad with 1/4 avocado, tuna, no dressing
Snack: dandelion root tea, lara bar
Supper: Dijon pork and kale

Day 2
Breakfast: Green Tea with Lemon and a Smoothie
Lunch: Spinach salad with green bell pepper, grilled chicken, olive oil and rosemary
Snack: Lara bar, celery and sun butter
Supper: Organic grass-fed beef roast and leftover kale

Day 3
*I have lost 1 lb
Breakfast: Green Tea, Smoothie
Lunch: Spinach salad with orange bell pepper, cucumber, rosemary chicken, olive oil, lemon juice
Snack: Lara bar, green smoothie
Dinner: Lemon Steamed Salmon, kale chips, steamed asparagus

Day 4
Breakfast: Smoothie
Lunch: Salmon with asparagus
Snack: Lara bar
Dinner: Smoothie
*I cheated today

Day 5
Breakfast: Smoothie
Lunch: Mixed salad with nuts, fruit, apple cider vinaigrette
Snack: Lara bar
Dinner: Coconut shrimp and sauteed spinach with tomatoes and onion

Day 6
Breakfast: Smoothie
Lunch: Salad with spinach, shrimp, coconut milk
Snack: Lara bar, green smoothie
Dinner: Lemon chicken, steamed chopped broccoli

Day 7
Breakfast: Green tea, smoothie
Lunch: Mixed salad with fruit and nuts
Snack: Green smoothie
Dinner: Rosemary garlic chicken, roasted veggies, salad

Day 8
*I cheated today
Breakfast: Smoothie
Lunch: Spinach with mushrooms, chicken
Snack: Lara bar, green smoothie
Dinner: Taco soup

Day 9
Breakfast: Smoothie
Lunch: Spinach with fruit and nuts
Snack: Lara bar
Dinner: Salmon, asparagus

Day 10
*I have not lost any more weight
Breakfast: Smoothie
Lunch: Spinach withs salmon, asparagus
Snack: Lara bar
Dinner: Taco soup

Results: 1 lb weight loss. Perhaps my cravings are slightly curbed? I am definitely off caffeine completely, although all I used to drink was 1 cup of black coffee in the morning. I still long for sugar and chocolate. I guess that won't likely change :) Overall, feel good. The diet wasn't all that hard, except that realizing I would not lose weight mentally made me think it was ok to cheat :) Would I do this again? Perhaps. What I was allowed to eat was not that big of a challenge. I think I would like to try this again when I feel more committed and am willing to pay the cost for all the supplements and ideas they specify, including the specific brand of fiber. I would recommend this to others despite my lack of weight loss because, as I am finding, I am quite the unique case. For some reason, it is nearly impossible for me to lose weight. I feel confident that most people who followed this diet would.

Moving on from here: Definitely going to keep that breakfast smoothie! It was DELICIOUS!! In hopes of losing weight, I was recommended carb cycling aka cyclic ketogenic diet. Since thus far, not much is working for my weight loss, I guess it's worth a try!