Lotus Flower Herbals

Recipe of the Week 3 Apple/Pear Crisp

noreply@blogger.com (Anne) — Sat, 11 Sep 2010 15:45:00 +0000

This recipe can be made using apples, pears, peaches... really, it's great with any fruit. It is vegan, but you can replace the Earth Balance with BUTTER if you like. I like to make a double recipe so I can freeze one and eat the other. Enjoy!

*PREHEAT OVEN TO 375 degrees*

CRISP TOPPING:
5 Tbsp. Earth Balance vegan margarine
3/4 cup of brown sugar
1 cup rolled oats
1/4 cup flour
1/4 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
1/4 tsp. salt
2 drops Cinnamon oil

Mix together brown sugar, oats, flour and salt. Add margarine and Cinnamon oil.
Either combine ingredients in a food processor and pulse just until blended. OR, use hands to mix margarine and dry mixture until it is crumbly.

FILLING:
2 lbs. sliced apples, pears or other fruit
3/4 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup flour
1 drop Cinnamon oil
1 drop Nutmeg oil
1 drop Clove oil

Mix together filling. Pour into an 8x8 oiled pan. Arrange crumbly topping mixture evenly on top.

Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until fruit is soft, and topping is browned. Serve with Almond milk for breakfast, or with Ice Cream for dessert.

ALWAYS USE THERAPEUTIC GRADE ESSENTIAL OILS

CLICK HERE TO ORDER THERAPEUTIC GRADE ESSENTIAL OILS

New Packaging for LFH

noreply@blogger.com (Anne) — Fri, 03 Sep 2010 16:53:00 +0000

Don't know if you noticed in the shop, but Lotus Flower Herbals recently got new packaging!

AND

a few new products as well, that will debut in our

Fall/Winter collection in mid September.

One of them is a nail oil that I created combining

herbal wellness and aromatherapy, along with

nourishing oils to moisturize and care for natural nails.

We are also adding some hydrating cleansers, toners,

moisturizers, AND A few really sweet

{think creamsicle ...citrus and vanilla with some ylang ylang}

other additions to the skin care section of the shop.

It is common to need a change in your skin care as the weather changes. Especially here in the midwestern USA! I always need to add a little bit more moisture to my routine, change from mud masks to hydrating masks, and use my facial oil after I cleanse and tone at night.

In mid September when the new products are launched I will be doing a few $25 gift vouchers to celebrate! Connect with me on Facebook to hear more about it!

Recipe of the Week: Squash Soup

noreply@blogger.com (Anne) — Fri, 20 Aug 2010 16:07:00 +0000

This is the creamiest, yummiest recipe for squash soup that I have come up with. You can choose to leave out the curry powder, or add more to taste. I like curry as a background flavor, so I only use 1/4 tsp. It is very thick, so if you would like to make it thinner, use up 1/2 cup water, broth or milk. You can also leave it unblended if you would like a chunkier soup.

This soup is very versatile. It is amazing reheated for lunch, or over pasta and leftover veggies for a quick dinner.

1 butternut squash, peeled and cut into cubes
1 red onion, diced
3 small carrots sliced
2 TBSP. olive oil
1 large apple, chopped. I used honey crisp variety
1 cup rinsed Basmati rice
5 1/2 cups of water or broth
4 drops Cinnamon Essential Oil
2 drops Clove Essential Oil
3 drops Ginger Essential Oil
2 tsp sea salt
1/4 - 1/2 tsp. yellow curry powder
2 TBSP Blue Agave syrup

In large pot, saute onions in olive oil until soft. Add water or broth. Bring to a boil, then add the rest of the ingredients. Boil for 20-25 minutes until everything is soft. The rice will be the last thing to be done, so make sure you check that it is done. Let cool for 10 minutes.

Blend soup in the blender, or use a hand held blender. I usually put the mixture into a large bowl, and blend it in 3 parts, so I don't overwork the blender, then return the blended soup to the pot. Reheat for a few minutes.

Serve soup with biscuits or warm bread. I like to make garlic cheese biscuits with this soup. Yum. Enjoy!

ALWAYS USE THERAPEUTIC GRADE ESSENTIAL OILS

CLICK HERE TO ORDER THERAPEUTIC GRADE ESSENTIAL OILS

Anti-Aging Facial Treatment

noreply@blogger.com (Anne) — Sat, 29 May 2010 01:34:00 +0000

Here is a great way to get healthy skin this summer:

An anti-aging & brightening facial treatment
made with all natural organic ingredients!

Start with an exfoliating brown sugar facial scrub:

Dry dullness is easily removed, replaced with healthier, brighter, softer skin with the help of a mild glycolic peel. Brown sugar scrubs are gentle for sensitive facial skin and contain natural glycolic acids that exfoliate, brighten, and smooth skin.

Then apply a hydrating, anti-aging facial mask:

This facial mask is very soothing and very hydrating. It reduces inflammation and softens skin, helping to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

End with a few drops of Herbal Facial Oil
for dry/sensitive skin:

This oil has been formulated to moisturize and soothe dry, sensitive skin. Use nightly after cleansing, or apply to dry areas as often as needed. I have used this successfully in treating eczema in children and adults. You can also use this oil blend to help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and even helps with stretch marks!

Your skin will thank you, and you will notice results immediately. At least once a week, repeat treatment for improved tone, elasticity and glowing skin.

Help Haiti

noreply@blogger.com (Anne) — Sun, 17 Jan 2010 06:33:00 +0000

Help Us Help Haiti!

Tuesday, January 12, the worst earthquake in 200 years struck the island nation of Haiti, leaving utter decimation in its wake. While we still don’t know the full extent of the damage, we can be confident that an already fierce, daily struggle to survive has taken a disastrous turn for many Haitians.

Thousands are feared dead, and without adequate water, food, shelter, and medical care the survivors won’t last long. There is an immediate need for worldwide support of the Haitian people.

In order to provide much needed funds, Young Living has partnered with The D. Gary Young Foundation: Young Living Outreach, and from now until January 31, 2010,
10% of all proceeds from the sale of Lavender and Peace & Calming® essential oils will go directly to relief organizations working in Haiti.

We have the opportunity to help make a difference. Haiti’s infrastructure is completely demolished. The people of Haiti have no clean water to drink, no electricity, and all hospitals and aid centers have been severely damaged or destroyed entirely.

If you or anyone you know uses these oils, help us give more by increasing your order this month, and pass this message on to anyone who would be interested.

You can also make a monetary donation through The D. Gary Young Foundation: Young Living Outreach.

The need is immediate. Please help. Order Lavender and Peace & Calming.

ORGANIC Teething Oil

noreply@blogger.com (Anne) — Sat, 09 Jan 2010 21:53:00 +0000

My amazingly wonderful and effective

Organic Teething oil is back!

Visit Lotus Flower Herbals on Etsy.

Each 15 ML amber glass bottle of Teething oil contains:
Organic Olive Oil and Vitamin E, with Clove, Myrrh, and Lemon Organic Therapeutic Grade Essential Oils.

Clove oil has immune-enhancing properties, and it's principal constituent is Eugenol, which is used in the dental industry to numb the gums. It is amazing for babies and children who are teething. Always dilute clove oil for this purpose.

Myrrh is widely used in oral hygiene products. It is antiseptic and helps relax and calm the emotions, making it a perfect choice for teething!

Lemon has a strong, purifying, citrus scent that is revitalizing and uplifting. Lemon consists of 68 percent D-limonene, a powerful antioxidant. It has been shown to help calm the emotions of teething.

*This blend is also helpful for
a toothache for all ages.*

Don't just take my word for it! Here is part of an e-mail I received last week from a customer:

Since my son has not quite started teething I had just bought it (teething oil) to be prepared. My friend has a baby who has been having quite a hard time cutting some teeth. She was at her wits end. He hadn't nursed in over a day and had kept them up all night. His gums were so red and sore. She was tired of giving him tylenol and was asking me about your oil. Since he was hurting now and not wanting her to wait to order it, I let her use my bottle. She said it worked so good. He ate and slept and the oil soothed him. NOTHING else had helped but your oil did. She plans on buying some from you for herself and family. And depending on how much of mine she uses, I may need a new bottle too! I just wanted to let you know how grateful we both are for the product! -C.T.

ALWAYS USE THERAPEUTIC GRADE ESSENTIAL OILS!
Lesser oils contain hazardous chemicals that are toxic when applied to the body or inhaled. Read more about Therapeutic Grade Essential Oils HERE.

New Product! Ocotea

noreply@blogger.com (Anne) — Tue, 15 Dec 2009 00:06:00 +0000

I am sorry to have been away for so long, I have been so busy studying! I am back, full of renewed energy and ready to share some new things with you!

Young Living has released a few new products recently. I have been learning about their origins, uses, and effectiveness. I am always excited to learn more about the ever-expanding world of Essential Oils!

My favorite new product, Ocotea, is extracted from an Ecuadorian tree. Ocotea has the highest level of alpha humulene of any Young Living essential oil, which is a compound that helps aid the body's natural response to irritation and injury. Ocotea also has natural cleansing and purifying properties.

Ocotea, pronounced oh/ko/TAY/ah, is distilled from the leaves of Ocotea Quixos tree deep in the forest of the Amazon. The leaves are gathered and loaded into a bush plane and flown 14 hours back over the Andes Mountains to the farm for distillation, thus wild crafted and distilled at Finca Botanica Aromatica- Young Living’s farm. Ocotea is related to the cinnamon species though the aroma is different from any common cinnamon. It also has far less skin sensitivity than cinnamon bark or cassia.

An unusual cinnamon-like plant that also has a lot of eucalyptol--3.46. Ocotea has the highest level of alpha-humulene of any essential oil and is known to balance the body's internal response to irritation and swelling. Only Copaiba essential oil has a comparable level of this natural plant compound.

MEDICINAL USES

Blood glucose, local antiseptic, prevents blood clots, anti-cancer, candida, anti-diarrheal, fungal skin infections, anti-asthma, reported weight loss, foot fungus, non-adaptive sustained stress (death, divorce, etc.)

WONDERFUL FOR DIABETICS AND JUVENILE DIABETICS!

·     Ocotea is very good for lowering blood glucose levels.
·     1-3 drops under the tongue dropped glucose levels 30 points in less than 10 minutes. Then monitor.
·     Lowers cortisol, which lowers insulin.
·     3 drops, 3 times a day or 4 drops, 4 times a day has proven to be better than glucaflague

·     The local natives use it for diarrhea and as an anesthetic....by drinking a tea infusion.
·     Balances body levels of irritation.
·     It also regulates liver and balances metabolism.
·     Works like the anti-inflammatory drugs without the side effects.

WEIGHT LOSS

A recipe for using Ocotea for weight loss is to take 2 drops 4 times a day encapsulated, or just 2 drops in a glass of water.

ALSO GOOD FOR CANDIDA AND PARASITES

There has been a study going on in Ecuador concerning Candida and Strep elimination. Three months ago they started a research project on 88 children at a school in Ecuador. Sixty had parasites and 36 of them also had candida. They mixed 1 drop of Ocotea with 8 oz. of water. Then they gave 1 oz portions of this mixture to the children daily and diffused it in the classroom. It killed both the parasites and the candida.

PROMISING RESULTS

A video was shown at Young Living's 2009 convention of a Naturopathic Doctor in Utah using Ocotea with a patient. He made a tincture out of it along with a couple of drops of cinnamon oil. Patient had low energy, cold feet, and had high blood sugar, around 340. Blood sugar levels responded as follows:

4/21/09-- blood sugar level at 340
4/28/09-- came down to 212
5/7/09-- down even lower to 140
Patient also noticed a feeling of well being and peace.
Weight loss was noted.

Research Link: http://tinyurl.com/yhz7qzd
Antiplatelet and antithrombotic activities of essential oil from wild Ocotea quixos (Lam.) Kosterm. (Lauraceae) calices from Amazonian Ecuador

ALWAYS USE THERAPEUTIC GRADE ESSENTIAL OILS

CLICK HERE TO ORDER THERAPEUTIC GRADE ESSENTIAL OILS

GIVEAWAY CONTEST! Caudalie Skincare

noreply@blogger.com (Anne) — Mon, 23 Nov 2009 19:41:00 +0000

This time of year I have to spend some extra time nourishing my skin. I make a few changes in my normal routine. I tend to have dehydrated, sensitive skin during the cold winter months, and my deep cleansing wash is a bit too drying for me. I switch to Caudalie's Gentle Cleanser for a few months, and I am back to having lovely, well nourished skin. I also use Caudalie's Body Lotion. I keep a mini tube in my purse for those times when I am out of the house. SO convenient!

Caudalie is an Eco-friendly skin care line. They were one of the first skin care companies to remove parabens from their products. Caudalie uses healing compounds from grapes to fortify and nurture your skin.

I want to share these two skin care items, worth over $35, with you in a giveaway. I am sure you will fall in love with both of these products...

MULTIPLE WAYS TO ENTER THIS GIVEAWAY:

Comment on this post. Include your email address so I can contact the winner!
Follow Lotus Flower Herbals on twitter. Comment on this post that you did so.
Tweet the following message: Enter to win FREE skincare gifts at http://lotusflowerherbals.com then comment on this post that you did so.
Become a fan of Lotus Flower Herbals on facebook, then comment here that you did so.
Post about this giveaway on your own blog, then comment on this post that you did so.

EACH ONE COUNTS AS AN ENTRY.

FIVE ENTRIES PER PERSON MAX.

I will use Random.org to choose the winner on December 2nd, 2009. The winner will be notified by email, and has 3 days in which to claim their prize, or I will draw a new winner on December 6th, 2009.

Handmade Holiday Pledge 2009

noreply@blogger.com (Anne) — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 16:51:00 +0000

I took the Handmade Holiday Pledge over at Frenchie & Flea's awesome blog. I have been hard at work making my family and friends some great gifts. I have also been making new products to stock the shelves of my online stores at Etsy and Artfire.

Check out a preview:

Etsy: Your place to buy & sell all things handmade
lotusflowerherbals.etsy.com

I am adding new products daily. Let me know what you think!

We Have a Winner!!

noreply@blogger.com (Anne) — Wed, 11 Nov 2009 20:35:00 +0000

The winner of the Aromatherapy kit for

being the 100th fan on Facebook is.....

Cat Stolzenbach!

Congratulations Cat! You will be contacted this week!

Now for the 2 other fans who will

each receive a Mini Aromatherapy kit...

Jennifer Lester

Emily Depole

YAAAAY! I will be contacting you both this week!

Now we can do more giveaways!

Stay tuned...

Recipe of the Week 6: Homemade Applesauce

noreply@blogger.com (Anne) — Sun, 08 Nov 2009 04:44:00 +0000

This time of year really inspires me to make all kinds of yummy treats with apples. This week I made a batch of my homemade applesauce. You can use any type of apple, I have been in love with Honeycrisp, so that's what I used. I added a few drops of Cinnamon Essential oil, and some Blue Agave syrup. Try it and tell me what you think. I even eat it warm.

Peel, core, and cube 4 apples
Place them in a saucepan
Add just enough water to cover the apples
Boil for approx 20 minutes, or until the apples are soft
Cool slightly, and pour off most of the water
Use a food mill to puree the apples. You can leave it coarse, or puree it completely in a blender or food processor if you prefer
Add 2-3 drops of Cinnamon Essential oil
Add 4 Tablespoons of Blue Agave syrup

Serve warm or chill in the refrigerator for a few hours if you like. It will last for a few days in the refrigerator if you keep it covered. I like to make cinnamon rolls or muffins to eat with it. It is such a nice fall treat.

ALWAYS USE THERAPEUTIC GRADE ESSENTIAL OILS

CLICK HERE TO ORDER THERAPEUTIC GRADE ESSENTIAL OILS

Essential Oil of the Month- November: Thyme

noreply@blogger.com (Anne) — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 14:15:00 +0000

Thyme (Thymus vulgaris) has a spicy, warm, herbaceous aroma that is both powerful and penetrating. Known since ancient times as a medicinal herb, Thyme is anti-aging, highly antimicrobial, antiviral, and anti-parasitic.

Thyme contains large amounts of Thymol, which has been studied for its effect on gingivitis and plaque-causing organisms in the mouth. As a dietary supplement, it is one of the strongest antioxidants known.

Thyme supports the immune, respiratory, digestive, nervous, and other body systems. It may also be beneficial in helping to overcome fatigue and exhaustion, especially when recovering from illness.

ALWAYS USE THERAPEUTIC GRADE ESSENTIAL OILS

CLICK HERE TO PURCHASE THERAPEUTIC GRADE ESSENTIAL OILS

WANT TO GET A DISCOUNT ON ESSENTIAL OILS? BECOME A MEMBER!

How To Make Hand Sanitizer

noreply@blogger.com (Anne) — Fri, 30 Oct 2009 18:51:00 +0000

With the flu season in full force, we are all concerned with the germs and bacteria that are present in our environment from sick people. In trying to stay healthy, many people turn to waterless hand sanitizers, thinking they are helpful in keeping the germies away. Most of them contain Triclosan, which kills bacteria. The thing they don't realize, is that they are killing the good bacteria also. Healthy bacteria actually keeps the bad bacteria in check. When you kill the good bacteria, it makes it easier for the harmful bacteria that can make you sick to flourish.

There are other risks to using Triclosan. If you are not yet aware of the potential dangers of Triclosan, you should know that this antibacterial agent has been strongly linked to the following effects on human health:

Abnormalities with the endocrine system, particularly with thyroid hormone signaling
Weakening of the immune system
Birth defects
Uncontrolled cell growth
Unhealthy weight loss

Essential oils on the other hand, attack and kill the bad bacteria, leaving the beneficial bacteria intact, and human tissue unaffected. These are a few of the Essential oils that have been proven to contain extremely effective antibacterial, antiseptic, and anti-fungal properties:

Using these oils to make your own hand sanitizer is a great way to kill the bad bacteria and germs you come in contact with. You can also add a few drops of them to a soap base and use it to wash your hands. When you can't wash your hands with soap and water, this waterless hand sanitizer is the next best thing.

You will need:
1 cup of Aloe Vera gel
10-15 drops of oil (either pick one, or a make a mixture of the oils listed above)
2 tsp. of alcohol or Witch Hazel

Mix the ingredients in a glass or metal bowl or jar, using a metal utensil. Fill empty, clean squeeze bottles (either recycle used bottles, or buy new ones HERE).

I like to use little bottles and put them in places like my purse, kid's backpacks, my car, my gym workout bag... Hand sanitizer is NOT a replacement for proper hand washing, just use it when you are someplace where you can't wash your hands. Use it sparingly, as a little goes a long way, and it can dry out your hands, due to the alcohol.

ALWAYS USE THERAPEUTIC GRADE ESSENTIAL OILS

CLICK HERE TO ORDER THERAPEUTIC GRADE ESSENTIAL OILS

Recipe of the Week 5: Spiced Almond Milk

noreply@blogger.com (Anne) — Tue, 27 Oct 2009 04:01:00 +0000

Cooking with Essential Oils is a great way to receive their wonderful benefits. Homemade almond milk is nutritious, yummy, and easy to make. The Essential Oils taste great and are also good for boosting the immune system, making this drink a delicious addition to a healthy lifestyle. Always use Therapeutic Grade Essential Oils.

You will need:

2/3 cup raw almonds
4 soft dates
4 cups filtered water
1 drop Cinnamon oil
1 drop Clove oil
1 drop Nutmeg oil
1 tsp. Vanilla extract (optional)
Makes four cups

Remove pits from dates
Soak almonds and dates in 2 cups of water overnight.

The next morning, put the almonds, dates and

soaking water plus 2 more cups of fresh water in a blender.

Blend until smooth.

Pour the mixture through a mesh strainer, or use cheesecloth.

Pour into a container with a lid.

Chill in the fridge for a bit. It will stay good for a few days if refrigerated.

This makes a wonderful breakfast drink. You can add other fruit and make a smoothie.

I love adding a few frozen bananas. It tastes like a banana milkshake.

*Note: If you don't have time to soak the almonds, grind in blender till powdery (in 2 batches) then add chopped dates and water. Continue as above.

CLICK HERE TO BUY THERAPEUTIC

GRADE ESSENTIAL OILS
PHOTOS BY NATURAL MOM

Cafe Handmade's Virtual Craft Show

noreply@blogger.com (Anne) — Mon, 26 Oct 2009 04:01:00 +0000

As part of my Handmade Holiday promotion, I have a booth in Cafe Handmade's Virtual Craft Show! Come check it out, and don't forget to vote for me!! :)
As a thank you for your sweetness and love, I want to offer you free shipping on ANYTHING you order from my Artfire store!

Use coupon code: CRAFT SHOW when you check out.

LotusFlowerHerbals

Sell Handmade

How To Make Lip Balm

noreply@blogger.com (Anne) — Sun, 25 Oct 2009 05:05:00 +0000

Lip balm is a really easy MAKE-IT-YOURSELF project. A simple mixture of waxes, oils and other additives, balms soothe, hydrate and protect lips. I like to make my own, and flavor them with essential oils. I make them as gifts for my family and friends. You can put them in tubes, pots, or tins. My favorite containers are little pots. I buy them from Essential Supplies, but I have listed a few other places to buy containers at the bottom of the page, under resources.

To get started, collect all of your

supplies and have them ready to use.

beeswax or other wax
oil: Almond, Olive, Castor, Primrose or any combination of these
essential oils
additives: Vitamin E, Shea Butter, Cocoa Butter, etc...
sauce pan
glass measuring cup with pouring spout
spoons or spatulas
lip balm tube holder -optional, but nice to have for filling many tubes
lip balm tubes, jars, pots, tins, or whatever you are using as a container
shrink bands for sealing containers if you will be selling your lip balms
newspaper to cover your work surfaces
paper towels for cleaning up

Choosing Ingredients:

Almond oil is a nice oil to use.
Castor Oil will make your balm glossy.
Stay away from hydrogenated oils because they are unhealthy.
Vitamin E Acetate is an antioxidant natural preservative, and extends the shelf life of your product. Make sure to use it in every recipe. I use vitamin E oil that comes in gelatin capsules. They are easy to puncture and squeeze into the mixture.
If you prefer a sweet lip balm, add some honey.
If you like tinted lip balm, add some of your favorite lipstick to the mixture. If you want to experiment with making your own colors you can purchase Iron Oxide, Mica Powder, or D&C colors to add to the mixture. Mica Powders will add a shimmer to you final product.
Avoid artificial flavors. There are many natural essential oils that can be used which will increase your lip balm's healing potential.

Choosing Essential Oils:

Always use Therapeutic Grade Essential Oils.

Use one, or a combination of any of these can be nice as well.

Tea Tree is known for its antibacterial, antifungal and antiseptic qualities.
Lavender is soothing and healing for chapped, dry lips.
Rosemary is invigorating and antiseptic.
Peppermint and Spearmint are cooling.
Sage is very healing and beneficial for chapped lips.
Cinnamon is warming and very antiseptic
Ginger is sweet, spicy and warming.

Set up all the supplies you'll need on a countertop covered in newspaper. You'll be glad you did this because lip balm can be hard to clean up if you make a mess. I would recommend working in the kitchen as close to the stove as possible. Be sure you have all your supplies ready, including the containers you'll be pouring into. Once the mixture is melted, you'll need to work quickly, so the mixture doesn't harden before it has been poured.

Fill the saucepan partially, about a 1/3 of the way, with water. Turn burner on medium, and place glass measuring cup in the water. Add wax, oil, and other additives (vitamin E, shea butter, cocoa butter) from any of the suppliers below. Follow this guideline: 2 parts wax to 4 parts oil, or you can play around to try to find a consistency and combination that you find most pleasing. A mixture containing more oils makes a glossier lip balm, while a mixture containing more wax and butters creates a more matte lip balm. Stir continuously until it is melted and well mixed together.

Remove from heat and cool slightly. Add a few drops of essential oil to the melted base. It is important that you add your essential oil after you melt the base. If you add the flavor before you melt the base, it will lose its potency in the heating process.

Using the very same measuring cup that you melted the base in, pour your mixed and melted concoction into your containers. If you're using tubes, fill only to the top of the inside screw. Once the mixture has cooled, finish filling the tube. Pour almost all the way to the top, for a rounded look. This process avoids the risk of cracking that can occur when filling the tube all at once. If you're using jars or tins, just pour all the way to the top in one pour.

You can make labels, either on your computer or hand drawn. If you're planning on selling your lip balm, there are some FDA guidelines that you need to keep in mind when creating the labeling and packaging. You can find the FDA's Cosmetics Labeling Guide here: http://www.cfsan.fda.gov/~dms/cos-lab3.html#clgk. Have fun!

Resources:

Young Living
A great source for Therapeutic Grade Essential Oils.

Mabel White Home Living Corp.
This company has an extensive selection of everything you need, including shrink bands to seal tubes and jars, plus instructional videos.

Majestic Mountain Sage
They carry vegan base and the tube holder here. They also have a nice stock of lip balm supplies.

Not Martha
This blog has good illustrated step-by-step instructions for making lip balm that features the double-boiler method of melting the base.

The Chemistry Store
They sell lip balm tubes, and all the other basic and special lip balm making supplies.

Essential Supplies
They carry many different container options for lip balms.

Lip Balm Supplies Dot Com
This store has many different options for making lip balms, as well as container options.

Studio Sale... Coupon

noreply@blogger.com (Anne) — Thu, 22 Oct 2009 16:07:00 +0000

THIS WEEKEND ONLY:

20% OFF RAINBOW GLASS NECKLACE!

SAVE 20% On Rainbow Glass Necklace

Use Coupon Code:

FRIEND01

during checkout.

Handmade Accessories

How to Make Herbal Pills

noreply@blogger.com (Anne) — Tue, 20 Oct 2009 16:13:00 +0000

Here is another MAKE-IT-YOURSELF project!

As you know, I love to make my own herbal preparations! This recipe is for making herbal pills. The advantages of making your own herbal pills is that they are effective and safe, you know exactly what is in them, and they are fun to make. You can use either dried or fresh cut herbs. However, when you use fresh herbs, you are using a coarser material to make the pills, and the over all quality of the pills will be a bit fragile. For this reason I recommend using dried herbs.

These pills are fairly easy to make, you just need a few things:

SUPPLIES:

A small coffee grinder.
A medium sized mixing bowl, use either metal or glass.
Wooden spoon
Herbs and Essential Oils
Warm water -aprox. 1/2 cup
2 TBSP Honey or Agave nectar -optional
Filler powder, such as Arrowroot, Slippery Elm or Acacia -optional

Choosing the right herbs and oils is easy.
Here are a few blends I like:

Headaches: Skullcap (herb), Valerian (herb or oil), Rosemary (herb or oil), Chamomile (herb or oil), Peppermint (herb or oil).
Indigestion: Cinnamon (herb or oil), Dandelion (herb), Fennel (herb or oil), Ginger (herb or oil), Peppermint (herb or oil).

I order dried herbs from Frontier Co-op or Mountain Rose. They both have a wide variety of organically grown and harvested herbs to choose from, and really great info on each herb as well. I buy my Therapeutic Grade Essential Oils from Young Living.

Choose your favorite herb and grind it to make a fine powder and measure out about 1 cup of this powder as base material. You may need to use up to 1/4 cup of an herbal powder such as Slippery Elm, Arrowroot, or Acacia, that will work as a filler to bind the herbal medicinal powder. You can use a home coffee grinder to powder dried herbs. I use a new one that hasn't been used for coffee. It is my herbal grinder!

*A standard herbal pill usually contains about 125 mg of

herbal medicinal powder and 25 mg of filler powder.*

Measure 1 cup of herbal powder and 1/4 cup of the herbal filler powder. Mix both of these powders by using a hand mixer and add the honey or agave syrup if you are using it. Slowly add warm water to make a thick paste. Add 3-4 drops of each Essential Oil that you have chosen. Beat this paste with a hand blender till you get a very thick consistency. Once you create a thick paste, roll a small amount of the paste in your fingers to make little balls about the size of a small pea.

Now you will want to remove the moisture from the pills. Place them on a cookie sheet, and put them into a warm oven, on the lowest possible setting, for a few minutes. You can also put them out in the sun. Cover them with a light piece of fabric to protect them.

You can consume these pills immediately or store them for later use. I like to put them into a tightly sealed container. You want to make sure they stay dry, or they will not last as long.

I use 1 pill 4 times a day or when needed.

***If your symptoms last longer than a few days, seek medical attention. As with any serious condition, if you are under medical supervision, consult your physician before using herbs. This is not meant to diagnose, treat or cure. It is purely for educational purposes.***

Mantra Monday WEEK 2

noreply@blogger.com (Anne) — Tue, 20 Oct 2009 02:16:00 +0000

This is my mantra for the week:

"This moment in time 
shall never return" 

This week I am trying to remember to enjoy each moment as it comes. Life goes by so quickly, I don't want to miss any opportunities to connect with nature, my family, my inner self... 

When I use mantras, I like 

to combine them with an Essential oil blend that corresponds to my purpose. In this instance I am using Young Living's Present Time Blend.

Present Time Blend is an empowering fragrance, which gives a feeling of being "in the moment." One can go forward and progress when focused in the present time.

How to Use:
Rub on sternum, base of the neck, and forehead. Wear on wrists, neck, and behind the ears.

Ingredients:
Neroli (Citrus aurantium), spruce (Picea mariana), and ylang ylang (Cananga odorata) in a base of almond oil.

ALWAYS USE THERAPEUTIC GRADE ESSENTIAL OILS!

CLICK TO ORDER THERAPEUTIC GRADE ESSENTIAL OILS

Homemade Herbal Cough Drops

noreply@blogger.com (Anne) — Sat, 17 Oct 2009 16:44:00 +0000

Here is another MAKE-IT-YOURSELF recipe using herbs and aromatherapy. I do love to make my own medicine! This is a project that the kids can help with! The advantage of homemade cough drops is that they are free of dyes or unnecessary ingredients or additives. They are all natural, and they work!

Being able to grow the herbs to use to make your own medicine is also rewarding. But, if you need to buy them, that is okay too, just make sure you are using organically grown herbs! Here are a few sources for organic herbs:
Mountain Rose
Frontier
Esutras
Click here to buy Therapeutic Grade Essential Oils

First of all you will want to choose which herbs and Essential Oils to use in your cough drops. There are many to choose from. Here are my favorites:

Horehound has been used for decades for coughs and bronchial irritations. It is great for breaking up congestion. Use the dried herb.

Peppermint contains menthol which helps soothe the bronchial tubes, and helps ease sore throats. Use either the dried herb, or Essential oil.

Spearmint is similar to Peppermint, use either the dried herb, or Essential Oil.

Ginger is soothing for upset tummies, warming and great tasting, use either the dried herb, or Essential Oil.

Fennel is soothing to irritated throats and helps relieve coughing fits. Use the dried herb or Essential Oil.

Mullein will help soothe the bronchial and lungs, and ease coughs. It is extremely gentle. Use the dried herb.

Thyme has antiseptic and antibacterial properties. It is very useful for treating coughs and colds. Use the dried herb or Essential Oil.

Marshmallow is very soothing and will help dilate bronchial tubes, making it easier to breathe. Use the dried herb.

Slippery Elm is very soothing to a raw, scratchy throat, and is used to help relieve inflammation of the bronchials. Use the dried herb.

Korean Mint is used in the treatment of chest congestion and headaches. The leaves and stems are antibacterial. Use the dried herb.

Lemon has antiseptic-like properties and contains compounds that have been studied for their effects on immune function. Use the Essential Oil.

You can mix and match the herbs and Essential Oils you might have on hand, or what you are growing in your garden. Or use a little bit of each! There is no exact recipe, so don't be afraid to experiment according to your own preferences and needs.

You will need:

4-5 drops of each Essential Oil that you are using

1 cup dried herbs or 8 herbal tea bags (I love Traditional Medicinals throat coat)

3 cups boiling water

3 1/2 cups granulated sugar or brown sugar

Candy thermometer

First you will want to steep the dried herbs or tea bags in the water. Let the herbs steep for about 30 minutes. Strain well using a tea press or cheesecloth if using loose herbs. Add Essential oils if you are using them.

Next add sugar/brown sugar over medium heat and bring to a boil slowly, keep stirring constantly. When the mixture reaches 290 to 300 degrees and pulls apart in threads it is done. Remove from heat.

Now you can then proceed to pull the mixture, and make little balls. Use wax paper to store them. Or you can reuse a tin from other cough drops or mints.

Use with HOMEMADE COUGH SYRUP,
another MAKE-IT-YOURSELF project.

ALWAYS USE THERAPEUTIC GRADE ESSENTIAL OILS

CLICK HERE FOR THERAPEUTIC

GRADE ESSENTIAL OILS

Free Gift!

noreply@blogger.com (Anne) — Fri, 16 Oct 2009 23:48:00 +0000

Here is a special gift for you! As part of my Handmade Holiday promotion, I am offering you a FREE GIFT (1 ML Lavender Essential Oil Blend) with your purchase of $25 or more. Click on the coupon below...

Visit Lotus Flower Herbals's Studio

Receive a free gift with Order Total (orders above $25.00)

Use Coupon Code:

FREE OIL

during checkout.

handmade holiday

~LOVE YOU!! And have a Happy Handmade Holiday!

Herbal Advent Wreath

noreply@blogger.com (Anne) — Fri, 16 Oct 2009 15:30:00 +0000

I was online the other day looking for some herbs that are hard to find, and ended up finding Blossom Farms' website. They sell herbs for Advent wreaths! Their list of the symbolism of each herb was so meaningful, I had to share it with you. I love wreaths, and we put one up every holiday season. In a few weeks, I am going to be posting my tutorial for making an advent wreath... So get your supplies soon! ~Can you tell I am getting very excited??!!

There are many legends about herbs and the roles they played in the Christmas story.

The wreath circle stands for eternity, the following is an explanation of herbs often found in an advent wreath:

Juniper, cedar and pine protected the Holy Family on their flight from Egypt.

Ivy denotes the trinity.

Lavender represents purity and virtue, Lavender is said to have received its lovely scent when it served as the drying rack for the Baby Jesus' swaddling clothes

Sage stands for immortality.

Horehound is a wish for good health.

Rue is a symbol or virtue and banishes evil.

Thyme another manger herb stands for bravery and strength of Christ.

Rosemary is for remembrance. The story associated with rosemary is that its flowers changed from white to blue in Mary’s honor.

Bedstraw, is considered a manager herb.

Pennyroyal, is supposed to have bloomed at midnight on Christmas Eve in Christ’s honor.

Costmary, also known as Bible leaf and used as a bookmark the fragrance chases insects, was used by Mary Magdalene to make an ointment for the baby Jesus.

Tansy is associated with immortality.

Blossom Farm carries all the above plants, ready to ship to your door.

See more at www.blossomfarm.com
More sources for dried flowers:
Dried Flower Direct
Woodcreek Dried

photo credit: Runder
Click here to view the original image used in this post.

Make Your Own Nail Oil

noreply@blogger.com (Anne) — Wed, 14 Oct 2009 03:08:00 +0000

This time of year my hands are so dry, so I am using lotion after each time I wash my hands. It helps to hydrate and soften my skin, but my nails still get dry, weak, and seem to break so easily. I came up with this nail oil last year after looking everywhere for one to no avail. It is really easy to make yourself, and also makes a nice gift. (HINT HINT... holidays are coming)

I mix the ingredients in a glass jar that has a lid. You can also find little bottles here, and applicators here, if you want to really go all out. Putting it in cute little bottles does make it a nice gift, either for yourself, or someone special.

Nail Strengthening & Moisturizing Blend

1/2 cup Wheat Germ oil
1/4 Vitamin E oil
10 drops Frankincense oil
8 drops Myrrh oil
8 drops Lemon oil
mix together, apply to nails and cuticles 2-3 times daily for at least 30 days.

ALWAYS USE THERAPEUTIC GRADE ESSENTIAL OILS!

ORDER THERAPEUTIC GRADE ESSENTIAL OILS HERE

Sore Throat Spray

noreply@blogger.com (Anne) — Sat, 10 Oct 2009 03:00:00 +0000

OHHH! I have been feeling kinda sick the last couple days. Stuffy nose, headache, sore throat, fatigue... a yucky head cold! I have been drinking mass quantities of Sambucol, Throat coat tea, and taking spoonfuls of honey with a drop of Citrus Fresh Essential Oil Blend every few hours.

So, I decided to make a throat spray with Lemon, Thyme, Clove, and Eucalyptus Essential Oils. I mixed 4 oz filtered water with 2 drops of each oil in a glass bottle that has a spray top. I have been using it every few hours. The Clove helps to numb my sore throat, and the other oils are killin all the germies. It has been helping a lot. Try it for yourself! Just make sure you are using Therapeutic Grade Essential Oils!

ORDER THERAPEUTIC GRADE ESSENTIAL OILS

Yogamint!

noreply@blogger.com (Anne) — Wed, 07 Oct 2009 04:36:00 +0000

I found a great new place to hang out online. Yogamint is a fun, informative spot to learn about living a healthy lifestyle! There are great videos, articles on a range of topics; including healthy eating, yoga (of course!), ways to nurture your soul... there is even an astrological outlook for the month! I love the format that the information is presented, in quick little bits called mints! Hence yogaMINT...

I will be joining forces with Yogamint to bring you even more helpful tips on Aromatherapy, Herbs, and Holistic Family Wellness. Stay tuned! Now, head on over there to become a member, subscribe to their Email newsletter, have a few mints while there, and let me know what you think!