Lotus Flower Herbals

Recipe of the Week 3 Apple/Pear Crisp

2010-09-11T11:45:00.000-04:00

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

2010-09-03T12:53:00.000-04:00

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

2010-08-20T12:07:00.001-04:00

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

2010-05-28T21:34:00.005-04:00

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

2010-01-17T01:33:00.001-05:00

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

2010-01-09T16:53:00.009-05:00

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

2009-12-14T19:06:00.004-05:00

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

2009-11-23T14:41:00.004-05:00

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

2009-11-20T11:51:00.004-05:00

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!!

2009-11-11T15:35:00.000-05:00

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

2009-11-07T23:44:00.003-05:00

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

2009-11-04T09:15:00.000-05:00

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

2009-10-30T14:51:00.000-04:00

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

2009-10-27T00:01:00.002-04:00

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

2009-10-26T00:01:00.000-04:00

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

2009-10-25T01:05:00.004-04:00

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

2009-10-22T12:07:00.003-04:00

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

2009-10-20T12:13:00.007-04:00

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

2009-10-19T22:16:00.002-04:00

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

2009-10-17T12:44:00.013-04:00

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!

2009-10-16T19:48:00.006-04:00

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

2009-10-16T11:30:00.005-04:00

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

2009-10-13T23:08:00.008-04:00

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

2009-10-09T23:00:00.002-04:00

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!

2009-10-07T00:36:00.003-04:00

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!

The Meaning of Gemstones For Healing

2009-10-07T00:09:00.004-04:00

I like to use gemstones that are used for healing in my jewelry. I have received so many questions about what each stone means, that I have decided to list some of these qualities here. Gemstones contain a subtle energy that you can use to help focus your intentions. I like to combine Gemstone Therapy with Creative Visualization, Mantras, and Holistic Aromatherapy. I will also note which Essential oil I like to use in combination with each Gemstone.

Agate is a variety of chalcedony quartz and is often dyed with bright colors. Promotes grounding, protection, security; balances aura, spiritual growth; stimulates precision and perceptiveness, concentration and memory. It symbolizes courage, gives a spiritual love of truth, and banishes fears. Ginger is a nice oil to use with Agate.

Amethyst is a member of quartz family. The gemstone calms the emotions, creates clarity of thought and assist in attaining wisdom. Amethyst helps to draw your attention beyond the mind to the realm of pure spiritual knowledge. Amethyst helps you let go of all that is old and all that holds you back so you may fully embrace your spiritual destiny. It helps by providing protection, gives visions or opens spiritual and psychic centers, reduces mental tension, induces pleasant healing dreams, prevents over indulgence and encourages transformation and breaking of bad habits. Lavender is a good match with Amethyst.

Coral is an organic gemstone made by living sea coral. Coral aids in soothing, intuition, imagination and energizing the emotions. It is good for keeping thoughts in control for visualization and while meditating, also helps with the inflammation associated with arthritis. Wintergreen pairs well with Coral.

Fluorite gemstones are important balancers and healers. Fluorite opens the heart and the mind, which assist in producing clarity. Using Cedarwood enhances Fluorite's healing.

Garnet aids in remembering dreams, attracts profound love, gives persistence, can relieve depression, and works on the liver to relieve toxins in the body. It is also the symbol of emotional commitment. Try using Frankincense with Garnet.

Jade is the common name for two minerals, Jadeite and Nephrite, with both minerals having the same appearance. Jade is considered to be a gemstone of good fortune. The gemstone increases relaxation and reduces tension. Jade can also be used to relieve grief and improve sleep, promote peace, tranquility; soothes the eyes and emotions. I like to pair Clary Sage with Jade.

Lapis Lazuli is a rock, not a mineral. The lapis lazuli gem assists in harmonizing your heart and your mind, and strengthens the bonds between them. When the heart and the mind are working in harmony, mastering any area of your life is more attainable. Lapis Lazuli helps you to live your dreams and increases your adventurous spirit. The stone of friendship, it helps one to be more kind and helpful, it is also the stone of fidelity. Ancient cultures' medicine men and Shamans used Lapis in jewelry and headpieces to help them connect with their spiritual selves. Use Bergamot in combination with Lapis.

Onyx is part of the chalcedony family. Onyx can be used to stabilize and heal your root chakra, to increase grounding and productiveness. Onyx offers energetic support to help your chakras become more adaptable, this in turn enables you to be more productive. Helichrysum enhances the effects of Onyx.

Quartz is a crystalline rock or mineral composed of silicon dioxide. Quartz attracts life force from your being and brings it into the physical world. This life force then flows through your body and helps to nourish your mental, emotional and physical body. It raises one's vibration, bridges the material world with other realms. Quartz has the ability to store and transmit energy, and is excellent for healing on all levels and for meditation. Try using Sandalwood with Quartz.

Rhodonite gemstones are used to stabilize the emotions. The gemstone sorts out any feelings that are scattered, imbalanced, or ungrounded, and allows you to broaden your perspective and helps you become more balanced and mature. Peppermint is a good way to enhance Rhodonite's healing properties.

Rose Quartz brings more love into the life, skin rejuvenation, kidneys. Your marriage can have more sparkle and fire when you keep a rose quartz under your pillow. You will look younger too. Rose quartz is known as the love stone. When worn in jewelry the wearer feels a sense of self-worth. Rose or Jasmine work well with Rose Quartz.

Tiger Eye is a form of chalcedony quartz Cat's Eye. Tiger Eye gems are generally cut as cabochon, but also often into round pieces for necklaces and pendants. Tiger Eye gemstones help to convert anxiety, fear and obsessiveness into practicality and logic. The gemstone increases confidence and clear thinking. Try using Cypress with Tiger Eye.

Turquoise is porous, so contact with liquids, oils or even perspiration should be avoided. Turquoise is considered a good general healer for all illnesses and excellent conductor. It induces wisdom and understanding, enhances trust and kindness. It brings the qualities of mental and spiritual clarity. Turquoise reminds us of our spiritual nature, gives protection, and it is the stone of friendship. Rosewood enhances the healing properties of Turquoise.

THE COLOR OF GEMSTONES
ALSO PROMOTE HEALING

White - Purifies physical, emotional, mental or etheric bodies.

Pink - Love, self-respect and self-worth.

Red - Energy, sexual awareness, courage.

Orange - Cheerfulness, frees one from too many responsibilities.

Yellow - Mental awareness, nerves.

Green - Healing, abundance, balance self-control.

Turquoise - Flashes of intuition, encounters from the past.

Sky Blue - Increases spiritual awareness.

Dark Blue, Indigo - Protection, strength, occult work, calms

Violet, Purple - Transformation, elevates the soul.

Gold - Wisdom, self-confidence, strengthens the heart.

Brown - Practicality, stabilizes.

Black - Abstract thought, protective, material world.

~While there is no scientific proof that gemstones assist in healing, they do contain life force energy that has been measured in many experiments. There have been numerous studies performed using Gemstones and their healing energy.

ALWAYS USE THERAPEUTIC GRADE ESSENTIAL OILS

CLICK HERE TO ORDER OILS

Just Around the Corner...

2009-10-06T14:09:00.003-04:00

The holidays are coming up so quickly this year! Like usual, I will be giving handmade gifts to my friends and family. I usually make up a few batches of quick bread, some cookies, a few herbal salves and tinctures, and some aromatherapy kits to give as gifts- recipes to come in following weeks, stay tuned! This year I extend my welcome to you to shop Handmade also. If you aren't the do-it-yourself kinda person, my Artfire store will be stocked with many handmade gifts for you to share with your loved ones. I hope you have a Happy Autumn, and that you enjoy the following weeks leading up to Thanksgiving, and then Christmas & Hannukah.

LotusFlowerHerbals

Holiday Gifts

Essential Oil of the Month- October: Clove oil

2009-10-06T00:03:00.004-04:00

Clove (Syzygium aromaticum) has a sweet, spicy fragrance that is stimulating and revitalizing. An important ingredient in Young Living's Thieves blend, due to its wonderful immune-enhancing properties.

Clove oil's principal constituent is eugenol, which is used in the dental industry to numb the gums. It is also the main ingredient in my Children's Teething Oil Blend, which can also be used for toothaches. Always dilute for topical use.

Clove is the highest-scoring single ingredient ever tested for its antioxidant capacity on the ORAC scale. Clove may also be used to enhance the flavor of foods. It is one of the ingredients in my Applesauce Cake recipe!

ALWAYS USE THERAPEUTIC GRADE ESSENTIAL OILS!

CLICK HERE TO ORDER CLOVE OIL

Mantra Monday WEEK 1

2009-10-05T12:35:00.012-04:00

My mantra for this week is, "This, too, shall pass". Every time something starts to annoy, irritate, worry, or stress me out, I repeat this mantra until I remember that nothing EVER stays the same for long! I will not ALWAYS feel annoyed/irritated/worried/stressed out. Just like times in the past that I have felt this way:

THIS, TOO, SHALL PASS!

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 my Relax blend.
  

RELAX blend contains: Orange, Tangerine, Ylang Ylang, Patchouli, Tansy and Clary Sage Therapeutic Essential Oils, in a base of Almond oil and Vitamin E. I apply it to my temples, forehead, wrists and lower back. As I apply it, I repeat my mantra in my mind, letting go of everything else that is on my mind. I breathe in: inhaling peace, calm, and healing energy. Then I breathe out SLOWLY. While exhaling, I try to visualize all of the stress going out of my fingertips and leaving my body. I do this exercise when I first wake up, and a few times during the day if I am feeling especially stressed or worried. It really helps me to stay focused and positive, which results in more energy. When I feel energetic, everything seems easier, and life is definitely more enjoyable. Try it out, and see what you think!

ALWAYS USE THERAPEUTIC GRADE ESSENTIAL OILS!

CLICK HERE TO ORDER RELAX BLEND

Essential Oil Recipe of the Week 2: Applesauce Cake

2009-10-04T00:17:00.003-04:00

I found a recipe for Applesauce Cake. I modified it slightly to include the use of Essential oils. I made it, and it turned out DELICIOUSLY! It is a healthy alternative to other desserts. It is a moist, spiced cake that is easy to make, and vegan too! ENJOY!!

Ingredients:

1/4 cup oil

1/2 cup Blue Agave nectar

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 cup unsweetened applesauce

3/4 cup chopped dried apples

3/4 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

2 cups whole wheat or whole wheat pastry flour

1 teaspoon baking powder

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

1/2 teaspoon sea salt

1 drop Cinnamon oil

1 drop Nutmeg oil

1 drop Clove oil

1 drop Ginger oil

Directions:

Preheat oven to 350ºF. Oil a 10-inch round cake pan or 8- or 9-inch square baking pan. Beat oil, Blue Agave nectar, and vanilla together until smooth. Add Essential oils. Stir in applesauce, chopped dried apples, and walnuts if you are using them. In separate bowl, sift remaining ingredients together. Dough will be stiff. Spread into prepared pan. Bake 30 minutes, or until cake pulls away from edges of pan and knife inserted in center comes out dry. Cool on rack. Serve cake plain or with whipped tofu topping. It’s also delicious frosted, or topped with fresh fruit.
Makes 12 servings.

Always Use Therapeutic Grade Essential Oils!
TO ORDER, CLICK HERE
*PHOTO BY CATHE OLSEN*

Kid's Aromatherapy Kit

2009-10-03T02:18:00.015-04:00

TAAAA-DAAAA!

Kits are finished, listed, and ready for purchase.

This Aromatherapy kit is designed to be safe to use with children, although it can be used for any age. It contains four 5 ML amber glass dropper bottles. One bottle each of THERAPEUTIC GRADE: Lavender, Peppermint, Relax Blend, and Clean Blend come diluted for safety with Almond oil and Vitamin E, and are ready for use. The oils come with a booklet, outlining someways to use them, and a handmade paper case for keeping the oils organized.

These oils are safe to use for children of any age, and have been carefully selected for common childhood issues, such as irritability, skin rashes and irritations, bug bites, headaches, teething... 

Clean Blend is safe to use for cleaning baby toys and furniture, just add a few drops to a cup of warm water, put in a spray bottle, and use. It is antiseptic and antibacterial. It is also a very soothing oil, and an be used in a bath for a cranky child, or added to unscented lotion or oil for massage.

Lavender is amazing for skin

irritations, burns, bug bites, and

diaper rash. It also is helpful for

insomnia, anxiety and it improves

concentration. Especially helpful

when added to a warm bath.

Relax Blend helps to soothe the nervous system. I like to put a few drops on a piece of cotton and put in my baby's pajama drawer. It makes them smell so sweet, and helps to relax her at bedtime. I also put a few drops on tissues and put in a pillowcase a few hours before bed, it encourages restful sleep. It is also nice in a bath, or used for a relaxing massage.

Peppermint oil is purifying and stimulating to the

conscious mind. It can be helpful for headaches,

itchy dry skin conditions, irritations,

fungal infections, nausea, and can speed the

healing of cold sores.

ALWAYS USE THERAPEUTIC GRADE ESSENTIAL OILS!

Lesser oils contain hazardous chemicals that

are toxic when applied to the body or inhaled.

Keep Essential oils out of reach for children and pets.

Always stay present with children when using aromatherapy.

*NEVER give a bottle of essential oil to a child or use without supervision.*

Inspiration / Story behind this Product:

I am a Holistic Health Practitioner, and Holistic Aromatherapist. I am a mother to 4 children aged 6 months to 13 yrs old. I have used Aromatherapy on them since they were babies. I used Aromatherapy during my births with them as well.

I have gotten such great results, and found Aromatherapy so successful and helpful, that I turn to my oils for help before any other remedy. I especially love using them on my children, boosting their immune systems, instead of overloading their tiny bodies with chemicals and drugs.

I have had so many requests from friends and family for my return to making these kits, so here they are!! Enjoy, and I wish you every blessing for you and your family's wellness!

CLICK HERE TO ORDER THIS KIT AND MORE

Sale On Lady Sclareol Essential Oil Blend

2009-10-02T00:04:00.005-04:00

Get 10% off Lady Sclareol essential oil blend
from October 1 to 31, 2009.
Lady Sclareol™ was designed as an exquisite fragrance. A seductive blend of nature's most aromatic and skin-pampering essential oils, Lady Sclareol creates a beguiling and alluring perfume. It contains the essential oils of Rosewood (Aniba rosaeodora), Vetiver (Vetiveria zizanioides), Geranium (Pelargonium graveolens), Orange (Citrus sinensis), Clary Sage (Salvia sclarea), Ylang Ylang (Cananga odorata), Sandalwood (Santalum album), Sage Lavender (salvia lavandulifolia), Jasmine (Jasminium officinale), and Idaho Tansy (Tanacetum vulgare).

To take advantage of this great offer, become a member HERE. It is free to join as a retail customer. For a one time fee of $40, you can save up to an additional 25% off of retail prices by becoming a distributor. In addition to these savings, you receive two oils, Lavender and Peppermint, 3 Ning Xia Red packets, a coupon for 50% off a diffuser, and tons of information. No need to sell to others, yet you receive a great discount, and the opportunity to earn free merchandise, just by ordering your own oils! Autoship also saves you money on shipping, by offering a flat rate on your automatic monthly order. If you DO decide you want to share your experience, and take advantage of a great business opportunity by sharing Young Living with your family and friends, there is a great wealth of information HERE to educate yourself. For more details, or for any questions that you might need answered, feel free to email me directly at lotusflowerherbals.com@gmail.com

HERBAL HARVEST

2009-10-01T10:03:00.004-04:00

I harvested some herbs out of the garden this week. I also collected some seeds for next spring's planting. Jaden even helped out, weeding and harvesting some Peppermint. We had our first frost last night, so we brought all of our plants in, and now our house is back to full jungle capacity. I love filling our sunroom with our plants every winter! It makes it so much nicer to have greenery to enjoy during the cold, barren days of our LONG Mid-western winter.

Here are a few pics from the harvest. To see

the full album, visit my Facebook page.

Become a fan on Facebook so you

can be entered in my give away contest!

ROSEMARY

NASTURTIUM

KOREAN MINT FLOWERS

QUEEN OF THE MINTS

LAVENDER

PEPPERMINT

GARDEN GNOME

SOME OF MY BEAUTIFUL HARVEST

Essential Oils for Babies and Toddlers

2009-10-01T00:54:00.017-04:00

Essential oils are so amazing! Uses range from cleaning your house, helping to clear up skin conditions, relaxing your nervous system or soothing a cranky child.
Here are a few of my favorite recipes and tips for using essential oils for babies and toddlers.

*ALWAYS BE SURE TO USE
THERAPEUTIC GRADE ESSENTIAL OILS!*

*ALWAYS, ALWAYS, ALWAYS! DILUTE OILS WITH HIGH QUALITY VEGETABLE OILS WHEN USING THEM ON BABIES OR SMALL CHILDREN.*

TEETHING RECIPES

TENDER GUMS OIL

1 tablespoon vegetable oil or glycerin (sweeter flavor)

1 drop Clove Essential Oil

SOOTHING CLOTH

Use 1 drop Roman Chamomile oil on a clean, damp washcloth, put in the freezer for 10 minutes. Let baby chew on it. Refreeze as often as needed. You can also tie a piece of organic cotton in a tight knot and use it the same way. The knots are the perfect hardness to rub on gums for the counterpressure of the teeth pushing through.

NON TOXIC TOY CLEANER
Mix together 2 cups of water and 5 drops of Lemon oil, or my CLEAN blend, in a spray bottle. It is safe to use on toys, to clean, disinfect, and kill germs. You can also add Lemon oil, or CLEAN, to handsoap. Or, use it in a spray for disinfecting the air. It has high antibacterial properties. It's antiseptic properties can last for up to 20 days. I also use this spray on baby's highchair and exersaucer.

CALMING A FUSSY CHILD

RELAXING BATH OIL

Mix together 2 drops each of Orange, Mandarin, and Tangerine oils, or use 6-7 drops of my RELAX blend, with 1 cup of almond or olive oil. Add a few drops to your child's nighttime bath. You can also add to any unscented baby lotion. I use California Baby unscented baby lotion for sensitive skin. I give my baby a nice, relaxing massage after her bath each time. She now expects it as part of her bedtime routine. It always calms her down, and it relaxes me as well.

Sometimes when babies get fussy, it raises our level of irritation, and they are so in tune with our emotions, that they can feed off of it, getting even more antsy. I have found that taking a few moments to calm MYSELF, in turn calms my baby down. In my opinion, the best thing ever is cuddling a sweet smelling child!

*NOTE* Tangerine oil has a scent similar to Mandarin oil, but contains NO anthranilic acid ester and therefore has no sedative effects. Anthranilic acid esters are highly sedative. Mandarin is wonderful to use with children suffering from anxiety, nervousness or stress. Works wonders on anyone who has a high stress level.

CALMING PAJAMA DRAWER SACHET

Take a few cotton balls or even a folded up paper towel or small piece of cotton fabric, add a drop or two of Lavender oil, Geranium oil, Clary Sage. Or, add 2 drops of my RELAX blend. These oils are very calming, soothing and promote restful sleep. Place the item with the oil on it in the drawer with nighttime clothing. You can also place a tissue with a few drops of the oils on it in the baby's bed a few hours before bedtime, removing when you put baby into bed. Then slip in into your bed, or into your pillowcase, for you can also benefit for this treatment as well.

BEDTIME TIPS

I highly recommend creating a nighttime routine as early in life as possible that gets baby relaxed. Start about an hour before bedtime. Begin with a bath using the relaxing oils and follow with a light massage. It can be a quick application of the lotion or oil, or it can be more extensive. I try to follow my baby's cues as to what she is in the mood for. Some nights she barely wants any massage, other nights she has more patience to lay still. Even if you choose not to have bathtime, you can do a gentle massage of the legs and feet with the calming oils/lotion while you get baby into their pajamas.

Turn down the lights, play gentle music, have a few minutes of quiet time. Soon your child will anticipate bedtime! When they know what is coming, they are more apt to enjoy the process. Make it an enjoyable experience, don't try to rush it. Try to schedule the time out for yourself so you look forward to this time also. When bedtime becomes a fight, nobody enjoys it, nor looks forward to it.

The older that children get, the more they crave routine. As your child gets teeth, be sure to start brushing them before bed. I try to get this out of the way first, as it is usually not the most fun. Then move on to the more relaxing aspects! Including a story at any age is a nice way to wind down.

I have found with each of my four children that when I make myself as relaxed as possible at bedtime, it all goes so much easier for everyone invloved. Knowing that I have this special time with my children keeps me focused on what is important. Any TV shows I want to watch can be recorded and viewed after they fall asleep. Giving them a half hour of my night is a pleasure. But I have definintely had to change my way of looking at bedtime to make it work well for us. You will find your own groove as you go along, and what works for some children, might not work for others. You know your child best, so decide what works for you, and most important, stay as consistant as possible. Routine makes children feel safe. We all feel more comfortable when we know what is coming, and the same goes for our children.

So listen to your heart, and most of all enjoy this special time with your children. Soon enough they will be teenagers who would rather listen to their ipod as they fall asleep rather that read a book with you! Blessings! Sweet Dreams!

*ALWAYS USE THERAPEUTIC GRADE ESSENTIAL OILS*
TO ORDER, CLICK HERE.

Recipe of the Week #1

2009-09-28T09:43:00.006-04:00

Every week I will be posting a new cooking recipe using Essential oils. When cooking with Essential oils, remember that they are in a very concentrated form. A few drops will be more than enough. Sometimes, all it takes is one drop! Also, be sure you are using Therapeutic Grade Essential Oils. Lesser oils are extracted using harmful chemicals that can be toxic to ingest. Using Young Living Therapeutic Grade Essential Oils assures you that you are using oils processed using only the highest grade Organically grown plant material.

This week's Recipe of the Week is a marinade for chicken, fish, tofu or vegetables.

Fruity Honey Mustard Marinade
4 Tbsp honey
2 tsp. Mustard
2 drops each of Orange & Lemon Essential Oils
1 Tbsp. apricot or peach jam
1 Tbsp. Oilve oil
Stir into a smooth paste. Coat and soak meat, tofu or veggies for at least 15 minutes. Soaking tofu overnight makes it very flavorful.

Either bake, roast or grill, brushing the marinade on every few minutes, until thoroughly cooked.

TO ORDER THERAPEUTIC GRADE ESSENTIAL OILS, CLICK HERE

Properties of Essential Oils

2009-09-28T00:01:00.001-04:00

Anti-Bacterial: prevents the growth of, or destroys bacteria

Basil, Bergamot, Cajeput, Cedarwood, Cinnamon, Cistus, Citronella, Clove, Copaiba, Dill, Eucalyptus, Geranium, Grapefruit, Hyssop, Lavandin, Lemon, Lemongrass, Lime, Marjoram, Melaleuca (Tea tree), Mountain Savory, Myrrh, Orange, Oregano, Palmarosa, Peppermint, Ravensara, Rosemary, Rosewood, Spearmint, Spikenard, Idaho Tansy

Anti-Fungal: prevents & combats fungal infection

Black Pepper, Cinnamon, Citronella, Clary Sage, Clove, Fir, Geranium, Hyssop, Lavandin, Lavender, Lemongrass, Mandarin, Marjoram, Melaleuca (Tea tree), Mountain Savory, Myrrh, Oregano, Palmarosa, Peppermint, Rosemary, Rosewood, Sage, Spikenard, Thyme

Anti-Microbial: resists or destroys pathogenic micro-organisms

Cinnamon, Clove, Eucalyptus, Helichrysum, Jasmine, Lemon, Lemongrass, Melaleuca (Tea tree), Mountain Savory, Myrrh, Oregano, Patchouli, Rosemary, Sage, Thyme

Anti-Parasitic: prevents & destroys parasites

Cajeput, Roman Chamomile, Citronella, Clove, Fennel, Lemon, Lemongrass, Maleleuca (Tea tree), Mountain Savory, Myrrh, Neroli, Nutmeg, Oregano, Peppermint, Rosemary, Rosewood, Spikenard, Spruce, Thyme

Anti-Septic: destroys & prevents the development of microbes

Cassia, Cedar, Cinnamon, Citronella, Eucalyptus, Fennel, Fir, Ginger, Grapefruit, Hyssop, Juniper, Lavandin, Lavender, Lemon, Lime, Maleleuca (Tea tree), Mandarin, Marjoram, Neroli, Nutmeg, Oregano, Peppermint, Pine, Ravensara, Rosemary, Spearmint, Spruce, Thyme, Vetiver

Anti-Viral: inhibits the growth of a virus

Basil, Cinnamon, Cistus, Clove, Cumin, Cypress, Eucalyptus, Geranium, Helichrysum, Hyssop, Lime, Melaleuca (Tea tree), Melissa, Mountain Savory, Myrrh, Oregano, Palamrosa, Peppermint, Ravensara, Rose, Rosewood, Sandalwood, Sage, Idaho Tansy

Immune-Stimulant: stimulates the natural defense mechanism of the body

Cistus, Clove, Cumin, Frankincense, Grapefruit, Lemon, Melaleuca (Tea tree), Mountain Savory, Orange, Oregano, Ravensara, Sandalwood, Spikenard, Spruce, Thyme

*research complied by Essential Science Publishing
Always use Therapeutic Grade Essential Oils
TO ORDER, CLICK HERE

Aromatherapy Reference Books

2009-09-27T00:10:00.063-04:00

I want to recommend a few of my favorite books to help you learn more about aromatherapy and how it can impact you and your family's health.

The first one is Aromatherapy for the Healthy Child, by Valerie Ann Worwood. I love this book, and use it often. Click HERE to check out the table of contents.

The second book I recommend is also by Valerie Ann Worwood. The Complete Book of Essential Oils and Aromatherapy is a necessary resource for anyone interested in alternative approaches to healing. This book contains more than 600 easy-to-follow recipes for essential oil treatments and aromatherapy.

Essential Oils Pocket Reference, compiled by ESP, Is the most thorough and amazing guide to Aromatherapy. It is best for someone studying aromatherapy or health professionals using it in their existing practice. This handy portable reference guide lists oils, their medical properties, uses, historical data, and much more. It even lists the extraction methods used for each oil. The companion book, Essential Oils Desk Reference, is even more amazing, due to it's full color pictures and color coded tabs. It is very easy to find the information you are looking for. I use these books daily. They are very wonderful, and helpful, to have in your bookshelf.

Aromatherapy for Women and Children by Jane Dye, is a great resource. It is a comprehensive guide to using Aromatherapy for your family's health and well being. It has a great section on pregnancy, with an easily accessible alphabetical section.

Aromatherapy for Healing the Spirit: Restoring Emotional and Mental Balance with Essential Oils, by Gabriel Mojay, is the first aromatherapy guide to synthesize Eastern and Western approaches to restoring emotional and mental health.
• Explains the esoteric and energetic healing properties of 40 essential oils to help restore balance to the body and psyche.
• Provides help for a wide range of common emotional and mental complaints.
• Includes full-color illustrations to guide readers through the massage and acupressure sequences.

In this unique synthesis of Eastern and Western healing approaches, Gabriel Mojay combines the practice of aromatherapy with the wisdom of traditional Chinese medicine. Mojay explains the esoteric and energetic healing properties of 40 essential oils and shows how they can be used to manipulate qi, the body's vital energy, to stimulate healing from negative emotional and mental states. Some forms of nervous tension, for example, are caused by stagnant qi energy, which can be released with essential oils.
Aromatherapy for Healing the Spirit provides help for a wide range of common emotional and mental complaints--including depression, low energy, lack of concentration, poor memory, anxiety, and low self-esteem. Easy-to-reference charts and full-color illustrations teach simple aromatherapeutic massage and acupressure techniques that restore balance to the body and psyche. I use this book daily. It somehow never makes it back into the bookcase.

These are just a few of the amazing books on Aromatherapy that I have on my bookshelf. A good place to look for books is Essential Science Publishing. Amazon also has great deals in their used book section. Aromaweb also has a list of 15 great books on Aromatherapy. Happy reading!

HOMEMADE COUGH SYRUP

2009-09-26T00:10:00.009-04:00

Here are a few different recipes for cough syrup. Some are very easy, some a little more labor intensive. I enjoy the process of making my own syrups, and it costs less than ones you can purchase at the store. Also knowing exactly what is in it makes me feel better about giving it to my family! Remember though, children under the age of a year are susceptible to to the bacteria Botulism, which can be found in some honey. Never give honey to a child under a year old, use Blue Agave Syrup or maple syrup instead of honey in the following recipes. Have fun!

Cough Syrup with Slippery Elm Bark

Place the following in a glass jar or bowl:

1 tablespoon each of

Boneset
Irish moss
White yarrow
Slippery elm bark
Horehound
Lemon balm

Add to 4 cups of boiling water. Steep for 30 minutes. Strain well.

Add 2-3 drops of

Peppermint essential oil
Thyme essential oil
Mix in 1 1/2 cups of honey.

Drink several cups of this liquid a day for coughs.

Thyme Cough Syrup

Pour 2 cups boiling water, or warm water if using oils, into a glass jar
Measure 2 Tbsp of Thyme, or use 2 drops Thyme essential oil
Cool to room temperature
Strain if using dried herb
Add 1 cup of honey
Shake to mix well
Cover

Keep refrigerated. Take 1 tablespoon several
times a day for sore throats, colds, and
coughing.

Elecampane Cough Syrup

Boil a quart of water in a saucepan.
When it comes to a boil add 2 tablespoons of dried Elecampane root.
Turn down to a simmer and do so for 20 minutes.
Add honey to taste. Honey heals and soothes as well.
Add 2-3 drops of Lemon essential oil as well if you have it.
Strain and drink your natural cough remedy.

Honey-Lemon Cough Syrup

2 drops Lemon oil
3 drops Eucalyptus Radiata
1 tsp honey (or use blue agave syrup if desired)
4 oz. warm distilled water

Mix together in a cup, sip slowly and and repeat as often as necessary.

Garlic Honey Cough Syrup

1/2 c. honey
1 tbsp. chopped garlic
1 tsp. horseradish (fresh prepared)

Mix well. Take 1 or 2 teaspoons as needed. If mixture is too hot, add more honey to taste. It has worked well for sinus problems and chronic bronchitis.

Oregano Cough Syrup

3 drops Oregano oil
10 drops Eucalyptus Radiata
1 cup honey

Place in a glass jar with a tight fitting lid. Keep refrigerated, use 2-3 times daily.

Cherry Cough Syrup

Place 2 cups of cherries in a pan
Add just enough water to cover.
Add several lemon slices
Add 2 cups of honey.
Simmer the mixture until cherries are soft
Remove from heat
Remove the lemon slices and the cherry pits from the mixture.
Refrigerate, place in a glass jar
Take 2 Tbsp. as needed for coughing

*If making your own syrup seems like too much work, you can always add 1 drop Lemon essential oil to 1 Tbsp. of honey, and take 3 times daily.
ALWAYS USE THERAPEUTIC GRADE ESSENTIAL OILS!
TO ORDER, CLICK HERE

Super September SALE!!!

2009-09-25T13:48:00.000-04:00

Save 10% On Ylang Ylang Essential Oil

Get 10% off Ylang ylang essential oil purchases between September 1 and 30, 2009.

Ylang ylang (Cananga odorata) has a sweet, soft, flowery fragrance that has made it a romantic favorite. In Indonesia, the petals are often strewn across a marriage bed. Ylang ylang is effective for calming and bringing about a sense of relaxation, and it may help with releasing feelings of anger, tension, and nervous irritability. It has a long history in skin and hair care products, particularly in Asia, where it is used to promote luxuriant hair. Ylang Ylang has an approximate oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC) of 1,300,478 (TE/L). TE/L is expressed as micromole Trolox equivalent per liter.

YLANG YLANG RECIPES

Relaxing Bath Oil
4 tsps sweet almond oil or avocado oil
4 drops Ylang ylang
2 drops Rose or Geranium
Mix together, add to bath, lie back and relax.

Stress Relief Massage Oil
2 drops Lavender
1 drop Ylang ylang
2 drops Vetiver
Add 2 drops Lavender, 1 drop Ylang ylang and 2 drops Vetiver to 5 teaspoons of V-6 massage oil base (or almond oil). Stir gently to mix and massage into body.

Uplifting Personal Blend for Nighttime Use:
2 drops Rosewood
2 drops Bergamot
2 drops Ylang Ylang
Add 1 drop Rosewood, 2 drops Bergamot and 2 drops Ylang ylang to 6 teaspoons of V-6 massage oil base (or almond oil). Wear as a fragrance, use as a massage blend or inhale directly from the bottle.

TO ORDER THERAPEUTIC GRADE ESSENTIAL OILS, CLICK HERE

Foot Care Preparations Using Essential Oils

2009-09-24T00:33:00.009-04:00

FOOT BATH AND POWDER RECIPES

Foot baths are especially helpful in treating tired, aching feet, cases of ingrown toe nails, foot fungus problems such as athlete's foot or ringworm, injuries or sprains.

Foot bath blends usually contain 8 to 10 drops of essential oils to 2 gallons of warm water.

One cup of Epsom or sea salts can be added as well.

AROMATIC FOOT POWDER

1/2 cup arrowroot (or an equal part blend of baking soda, cornstarch and clay)
8 drops essential oils of your choice (see suggestions below)

Combine the arrowroot and essential oil, crushing the small clumps of oil between your fingers to evenly distribute them. This is made only with pure essential oils, no base oil is added. Be sure to wash you hands after handling pure essential oils to avoid any contact with the eyes or delicate mucous membranes.
Find an airtight container, preferably with a closable shaker top (like a baby powder bottle. Pry off the top, add the powder, then replace the top. Aromatic foot powder is nice sprinkled in socks, tennis shoes, and boots to keep the feet dry and cozy.

Suggested Oils: Any of the foot bath recipe blends or; cypress (especially useful for sweaty feet), pine, juniper, ylang-ylang, grapefruit, rosewood, and frankincense are all suitable.

TIRED FEET BATH

3 drops lavender
3 drops rosemary
4 drops lemon

Add oils to 2 gallons of warm water and mix well. This blend comes in handy when you've been on your feet all day. The lavender soothes the feet and the rosemary and lemon refresh, revive, and stimulate circulation.

ATHLETE'S FOOT BATH

4 drops tea tree
4 drops lavender
2 drops sandalwood

Add oils to 2 gallons warm water and mix well. This combination of pure essential oils works wonders for people plagued with chronic athlete's foot problems. Tea tree is anti-fungal, as is lavender. The sandalwood conditions, softens and soothes sore, cracked feet and toes. Its antiseptic and soothing properties help keep feet safe from secondary problems that can arise from the open cracked skin. Patchouli could be substituted for the sandalwood as a skin regenerator. Patchouli also has fungicidal properties.

SOOTHING FOOT BATH

3 drops peppermint 4 drops lavender
3 drops Roman chamomile

Add oils to 2 gallons of warm water and mix well. This blend is great for hot, weary feet that have been on the move all day. The peppermint cools and the lavender and chamomile soothe both feet and spirit.

~After a nice soak, some self-reflexology is always nice. check out these "maps of the feet" to customize your treatment for your needs.

*ALWAYS USE THERAPEUTIC GRADE ESSENTIAL OILS!
TO ORDER THERAPEUTIC GRADE ESSENTIAL OILS CLICK HERE

AROMATHERAPY QUIZ

2009-09-23T11:18:00.005-04:00

Aromatherapy has become a widely used term. But how well do you really know your scents and the effects they have on your emotions, mind and body? Take this quiz to find out how much you know about this natural healing method.

1. You feel the need of a little morning boost to get you going. What scented lotion will help to get you on your feet?

a) Rosewood

b) Rosemary

c) Sandalwood

d) Vanilla

2. You find yourself feeling a little down and sad. What essential oil can help with these emotions?

a) Lemon

b) Lavendar

c) Bergamot

d) Sweet orange

3. You tend to feel tired in the afternoon hours. Which aroma can help you to feel energized?

a) grapefruit

b) lemon

c) juniper

d) peppermint

4. You wake in the night and have difficulty getting back to sleep. What scented oil will have a calming effect?

a) sweet orange

b) rosemary

c) peppermint

d) sandalwood

5. You have a temper that tends to flare up on occasion. Which of these oils will help to soothe your psyche?

a) jasmine

b) sandalwood

c) oatmeal

d) peppermint

6. You tend to be shy in social situations. Which scent can help with your shyness?

a) bergamot

b) rosewood

c) Jasmine

d) Ylang ylang

7. You tend to overeat when the option presents itself. Which aroma can aid as an appetite suppressant?

a) lemon

b) sweet orange

c) grapefruit oil

d) bergamot

8. You often feel anxious and overwhelmed. Which scent can aid in reducing anxiety?

a) ylang ylang

b) peppermint

c) lemon

d) vanilla

9. You sleep lightly and often wake tired. Which oil can be utilized as a sleep aid?

a) patchouli

b) Clary sage

c) Sandalwood

d) Rose

10. Your sex drive could use some assistance. Which essential oil can act as an aphrodisiac?

a) Patchouli

b) Ylang ylang

c) Jasmine

d) Rose

Answers:

1. C – sandalwood helps lower fatigue levels and aids in boosting immunity.

2. C & D – sweet orange and bergamot can help to balance mood swings

3. B & D – Both lemon and peppermint help to rejuvenate mind, body and soul.

4. A, B, C & D – All of these essential oils are known to have a calming effect.

5. C – Oatmeal can soften the temper as well as your skin.

6. C – Jasmine can boost confidence by aiding relaxation in social situations.

7. C – Grapefruit oil can help those who tend to overeat.

8. A & D – ylang ylang and lemon can help reduce stress and tension.

9. B & D – Clary sage and Rose can aid in achieving a deeper sleep.

10. A,B,C & D – These scents are all considered aphrodisiacs.
8-10 correct: Aroma Savvy

Congratulations! You know your scents. You are on your way to becoming a true Aroma Pro.

5-7 correct: Aroma Friendly

Very Well Done! You know some scents and their uses, but you could use a refresher course.

0-4 correct: Aroma Newbie

Nice Try! You may be new to the topic of aromatherapy. There are many great ways to learn more about these wonderful scents and their uses.

*this quiz was written by Elizabeth Smith*

How To Make Herbal Tinctures

2009-09-23T00:23:00.003-04:00

Herbal tinctures are potent, spirit based, liquid extracts. They are made using fresh plant material and liquid base such as vodka, brandy, vegetable glycerin, or even apple cider vinegar.

Selecting Your Spirit

Most commercial preparations are made with 198 proof grain alcohol. A simple and very effective choice is 100 proof vodka. It's clear, affordable and easy to obtain. 100 proof means it is exactly half water and half alcohol. This makes figuring dosages easy as most dosages recommended by herbalists are based on the assumption that a tincture was made at 50% - 1/2 water, 1/2 alcohol. If you are concerned about ingesting the alcohol, I recommend placing the bottle of tincture in boiling water for 1-2 minutes which will remove about 1/2 the alcohol. You may also use glycerin or cider vinegar. These won't be as strong as alcohol based ones, but they will still be effective and are often a good choice for children's remedies. *note: If using vinegar heat it slightly before pouring. It should be warm, not hot.

How To Make Herbal Tinctures

USING FRESH HERBS: After picking your fresh herbs, pick through them and remove any dirty or damaged parts but don't wash them.

Coarsely chop stems, leaves and roots. You can leave flowers whole.

USING DRIED HERBS: use half the amount of fresh herb.

Put your herbs in a clean and dry glass jar, and fill with the liquid of your choice. The herbs need to be completely immersed in liquid.

Cap the jar tightly with an airtight lid.

Label your creation with the ingredients and date and store in a dark place for 6-8 weeks, shaking occasionally.

Strain out the herbs and pour tincture into clean, dry bottles. Label with the date and ingredients used.

Essential Oils & Skin Care

2009-09-22T00:43:00.002-04:00

Essential oils can benefit the skin, hair and nails. This post will be dedicated to the skin, how to restore, and maintain it, keeping your skin healthy and youthful. ALWAYS USE THERAPEUTIC GRADE OILS. CLICK HERE TO FIND OUT WHY THIS IS SO IMPORTANT. Many cheaper oils contain harmful chemicals used to process the oils in a cheaper manner. You do not want to use cheaper oils due to the toxins and the lesser quality essential oils they contain.

A QUICK LIST OF OILS FOR GENERAL USE

To rejuvenate and heal, use Rosewood.
To prevent and retard wrinkles, Lavender, Spikenard and Myrrh can be helpful.
To regenerate skin, try Geranium, Helichrysum, and Spikenard.
To restore skin elasticity, use Rosewood, Lavender, or Ylang Ylang with Lavender

HERE ARE A FEW OF MY FAVORITE RECIPES FOR MANY SKIN ISSUES:

TO COMBAT PREMATURE AGING OF THE SKIN
Mix the following recipe into 1 TBSP. of high grade, unperfumed skin lotion (or use Olive oil, Sesame seed oil or Almond oil). Apply on face, neck and decollete twice daily. AVOID THE EYE AREA!

6 drops of Rosewood
4 drops of Geranium
3 drops of Lavender
2 drops of Frankincense

FOR DRY SKIN
Mix together the following oils into 1 cup of unperfumed lotion base (or use V-6, or Avocado oil). Apply as often as needed. AVOID THE EYE AREA!

3 drops Rose oil
3 drops Roman Chamomile oil
3 drops Sandalwood oil

FOR CHAPPED SKIN
Mix together the following oils into 1 cup of unperfumed lotion base (or use V-6, or Avocade oil). Apply at least morning and night. Use as often as needed.

3 drops Rosewood oil
3 drops Patchouli oil
3 drops Geranium

TIPS FOR CLEARING UP ACNE
Acne results from an excess accumulation of dirt and sebum (oil produced by the hair follicle) in the follicles and pores of the skin. As the pores and hair follicles become congested, bacteria begins to feed on the sebum. This leads to inflammation and infection and the formation of a pimple or blackhead around the hair follicle.
Essential oils are outstanding for treating acne because of their ability to dissolve sebum, kill bacteria, and preserve the acid mantle of the skin.

Acid mantle has a particular level of acidity characterized by pH from about 4 to 5.5. A pH of 7 is considered neutral, above 7 is alkaline, and below is acidic. The pH of acid in the human stomach, for example, is usually from 1 to 2, which is highly acidic. The skin, on the other hand, is mildly acidic. In addition to helping protect skin from "the elements" (such as wind or pollutants), acid mantle also inhibits the growth of harmful bacteria and fungi. If acid mantle is disrupted or loses its acidity, the skin becomes more prone to damage and infection. The loss of acid mantle is one of the side-effects of washing the skin with soaps or detergents of moderate or high strength.

Topically apply essential oils such as Tea Tree to problem areas. Tea Tree was shown to be equal to benzoyl peroxide in the treatment of acne by the Medical Journal of Australia. Use 3-5 drops, and either dab onto a clean face with a cotton round, or massage gently into the affected area 1-3 times daily. AVOID THE EYE AREA!!
Other oils that can be helpful for treating Acne are

Geranium
Lavender
Eucalyptus Radiata
Orange
Clove
Lemongrass

For sensitive skin, dilute 50:50 with a light high quality oil or serum.

FOR CLOGGED PORES
The following essential oils can be used full strength on a cotton round. Use 2-4 drops on affected area and apply daily. AVOID THE EYE AREA!

Lemon oil
Tea Tree oil
Orange oil
Geranium oil

FOR GENTLE EXFOLIATION
Make this sugar scrub in a glass jar that has a tight fitting lid. You do not want to get water inside of the jar, as it will dissolve the sugar.

1 cup brown sugar
3/4 cup Olive oil, V-6 Oil or other high quality vegetable oil
2 drops Lemon oil
2 drops Lavender oil
1 drop Geranium oil
1 drop Orange oil

Mix all ingredients in the jar. Use a dry spoon to take out 1 tbsp for facial use. Rub into the face, neck and decollete, in circles lightly. AVOID THE EYE AREA! Leave on for about 5-10 minutes. For use as a body treatment, use 1/4 cup . Stand in the shower and scrub your damp body with the sugar mixture, letting it melt onto your skin. Sugar is a natural glycolic acid, and will dissolve the built up dead cells and sebum on the surface of your skin, leaving your skin soft and smooth. Leave on for 5 minutes, and rinse with warm water. Be careful, the oils can make the tub a little slippery.

MOLES
Apply 1-2 drops of Oregano on the mole, 2-3 times daily.

SKIN FIRMING BLENDS
Mix the following oils in 2 glass jars with tight fitting lids. Add to 1/2 cup of V-6 or Avocado or Carrot oil. Use daily for best results. AVOID THE EYE AREA!
MORNING BLEND

3 drops Tangerine oil
3 drops Cypress oil

EVENING BLEND

8 drops Patchouli oil
5 drops Cypress oil
5 drops Geranium oil
1 drop Sandalwood oil

STRETCH MARKS
Most commonly associated with pregnancy, but can also occur during growth spurts and periods of weight gain, and during adolescence. Dilute the following oils 50:50 with V-6 or Olive oil, and apply on affected areas 2-3 times daily.

3 drops Geranium oil
3 drops Lavender oil
2 drops Myrrh oil
1 drop Frankincense oil
1 drop Spikenard oil
1 drop Elemi oil

WRINKLE REDUCING BLEND
Mix the following in a glass jar with a tight fitting lid. Use on the affected area 2-3 times daily, AVOIDING THE EYE AREA!

1 cup V-6 oil, Olive oil, Avocado oil or Carrot seed oil.
6 drops Sandalwood oil
5 drops Geranium oil
3 drops Lavender oil
6 drops Frankincense oil
1 drop Rose oil

I HOPE YOU HAVE FUN MAKING SKIN CARE PRODUCTS AT HOME!
TO ORDER THERAPETIC GRADE ESSENTIAL OILS CLICK HERE

The Top 10 Foods that Benefit Your Skin the Most

2009-09-21T21:16:00.006-04:00

I found this great information on skincarebeautyzone.com and wanted to share the insights on here...
Aside from giving you a lot of benefits health wise, consuming these food items will help your skin remain luminous, elastic, smooth to the feel and healthy.

Take a look at the top 10 foods that will give you great skin:

1. Avocados

This rich tropical fruit is filled with vitamins C and E which works well towards fighting the effects of skin aging.

Although it is considered to be high in fat content, the type of fat that avocados have is monounsaturated.

This means that the fruit is also loaded with Omega-3 fatty acids that help improve the quality of your skin.

*Also making a facial mask of mashed Avocados is amazing for the skin. Just apply and leave on for 10-20 minutes, then rinse with cool water.

2. Berries

Blueberries, blackcurrants, raspberries, cranberries and strawberries are all beneficial for your skin. It is even better if you can consume the exotic Acai berries which come from the Amazonian forests in Brazil.

Acai berries have the most potent antioxidant content among any other fruits in the world, which is the reason why it is called a ‘superfood‘.

When you load up on foods which are rich in antioxidants, the effect on your body is that free radicals will be neutralized.

These free radicals are the culprit behind premature skin aging and cell damage.In addition, berries are a great source of vitamins C and E, Riboflavin and fibers.

More importantly, these tiny fruits have a natural ingredient which helps the body manufacture collagen – which makes the skin supple and smooth. Not bad for really small fruits, right?

*Also try Ning xia Red, it contains these amazing fruit, as well as wolfberry!!

3. Dark Chocolate

Surprisingly enough, the oh-so-sinful dark chocolates do have a high antioxidant content which helps improve the flow of blood to the skin.

It also gets rid of the rough feel to your skin while at the same time protecting it from sun damage.

4. Green Tea

If there’s one food item in our list which is also considered as the ultimate health drink, it is none other than green tea. This beverage is considered to be healthier than water and when it comes to the health of your skin, it is the one to beat.

Did you know that green tea is even used as a natural remedy for acne? Green tea is also a potent antioxidant. When you drink green tea regularly, you will get the daily dose of vitamins C, D and K that the body needs.

As you can see, there are numerous benefits that you will get to enjoy by drinking green tea while also improving the quality of your skin – so ditch the caffeine and substitute it with a cup or two of green tea now.

5. Mackerel, Salmon, Sardines & Fresh Tuna

You may notice how all of these fish variants are on the oily side.

Don’t think that just because they’re oily, it already means that they will not contribute to the health of your skin at all.

These types of fish actually contain the healthy and essential fatty acids in the form of Omega-3 oils.

What it does for the health of your skin is to decrease the chances of your skin clogging up while at the same time improving its elasticity. All in all, aside from the benefits of Omega-3 fatty acids to your health, it also generally improves the quality of your skin – making it suppler and younger looking.

6. Oysters

Although they are popular as aphrodisiacs, oysters actually are an excellent source of zinc.

What this does for your skin is to help renew and revitalize it, while assisting with the production of collagen at the same time.

7. Pomegranate Fruits & Pomegranate Juice

Just like Acai berries, pomegranate is also considered to be a super food because of its high antioxidant content.

Whether it’s the pure juice form or the fruit itself that you will eat, you will get to enjoy a unique benefit to your skin – which is to prevent the appearance of varicose veins.

This is due to the fact that pomegranate contains Anthocyanins which help strengthen the walls of the tiny blood vessels which in turn supply the skin with the nutrients that it needs.

*Also try Ning xia Red, it contains this amazing fruit, as well as wolfberry!!

8. Spinach

Popeye’s power veggie is something which you should also be eating a lot of.

Spinach is rich in alpha-lipoic acid and lutein – these two compounds work great against skin aging and also have anti-inflammatory benefits.

9. Tomatoes

Plump, red and juicy tomatoes are a great source of lycopene.

This does not just work well as an antioxidant to benefit your skin, but lycopene helps prevent the occurrence of certain cancers as well.

10. Walnuts

Just like fish oils, walnuts are rich in Omega-3 fatty acids.

The result when you feed your skin with this is that you will have smoother skin, and your body will be more able to battle inflammatory diseases.

Fill your grocery cart with these items the next time that you go shopping and watch nature work wonders on your skin!

For more information, visit skincarebeautyzone.com

TO ORDER NING ZIA RED, CLICK HERE

113 Ways Sugar Can Ruin Your Health

2009-09-17T00:03:00.004-04:00

In addition to throwing off the body's homeostasis, excess sugar may result in a number of other significant consequences. The following is a listing of some of sugar's metabolic consequences from a variety of medical journals and other scientific publications.

Sugar can suppress the immune system.

Sugar can upset the body's mineral balance.

Sugar can cause hyperactivity, anxiety, concentration difficulties, and crankiness in children.

Sugar can cause drowsiness and decreased activity in children.

Sugar can adversely affect children's school grades.

Sugar can produce a significant rise in triglycerides.

Sugar contributes to a weakened defense against bacterial infection.

Sugar can cause kidney damage.

Sugar can reduce helpful high density cholesterol (HDLs).

Sugar can promote an elevation of harmful cholesterol (LDLs).

Sugar may lead to chromium deficiency.

Sugar can cause copper deficiency.

Sugar interferes with absorption of calcium and magnesium.

Sugar may lead to cancer of the breast, ovaries, prostate, and rectum.

Sugar can cause colon cancer, with an increased risk in women.

Sugar can be a risk factor in gall bladder cancer.

Sugar can increase fasting levels of blood glucose.

Sugar can weaken eyesight.

Sugar raises the level of a neurotransmitter called serotonin, which can narrow blood vessels.

Sugar can cause hypoglycemia.

Sugar can produce an acidic stomach.

Sugar can raise adrenaline levels in children.

Sugar can increase the risk of coronary heart disease.

Sugar can speed the aging process, causing wrinkles and grey hair.

Sugar can lead to alcoholism.

Sugar can promote tooth decay.

Sugar can contribute to weight gain and obesity.

High intake of sugar increases the risk of Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis.

Sugar can cause a raw, inflamed intestinal tract in persons with gastric or duodenal ulcers.

Sugar can cause arthritis

Sugar can cause asthma.

Sugar can cause candidiasis (yeast infection).

Sugar can lead to the formation of gallstones.

Sugar can lead to the formation of kidney stones.

Sugar can cause ischemic heart disease.

Sugar can cause appendicitis.

Sugar can exacerbate the symptoms of multiple sclerosis.

Sugar can indirectly cause hemorrhoids.

Sugar can cause varicose veins.

Sugar can elevate glucose and insulin responses in oral contraception users.

Sugar can lead to periodontal disease.

Sugar can contribute to osteoporosis.

Sugar contributes to saliva acidity.

Sugar can cause a decrease in insulin sensitivity.

Sugar leads to decreased glucose tolerance.

Sugar can decrease growth hormone.

Sugar can increase total cholesterol.

Sugar can increase systolic blood pressure.

Sugar can change the structure of protein causing interference with protein absorption.

Sugar causes food allergies.

Sugar can contribute to diabetes.

Sugar can cause toxemia during pregnancy.

Sugar can contribute to eczema in children.

Sugar can cause cardiovascular disease.

Sugar can impair the structure of DNA.

Sugar can cause cataracts.

Sugar can cause emphysema.

Sugar can cause atherosclerosis.

Sugar can cause free radical formation in the bloodstream.

Sugar lowers the enzymes' ability to function.

Sugar can cause loss of tissue elasticity and function.

Sugar can cause liver cells to divide, increasing the size of the liver.

Sugar can increase the amount of fat in the liver.

Sugar can increase kidney size and produce pathological changes in the kidney.

Sugar can overstress the pancreas, causing damage.

Sugar can increase the body's fluid retention.

Sugar can cause constipation.

Sugar can cause myopia (nearsightedness).

Sugar can compromise the lining of the capillaries.

Sugar can cause hypertension.

Sugar can cause headaches, including migraines.

Sugar can cause an increase in delat, alpha and theta brain waves, which can alter the mind's ability to think clearly.

Sugar can cause depression.

Sugar can increase insulin responses in those consuming high- sugar diets compared to low sugar diets.

Sugar increases bacterial fermentation in the colon.

Sugar can cause hormonal imbalance.

Sugar can increase blood platelet adhesiveness which increases risk of blood clots.

Sugar increases the risk of Alzheimer Disease.

Sugar can cause a increase in delta, alpha and theta brain waves.

Sugar can cause depression.

Sugar increases the risk of gastric cancer.

Sugar and cause dyspepsia (indigestion).

Sugar can increase your risk of getting gout.

The ingestion of sugar can increase the levels of glucose in an oral glucose tolerance test over the ingestion of complex carbohydrates.

Sugar can increase the insulin responses in humans consuming high- sugar diets compared to low sugar diets.

Sugar increases bacterial fermentation in the colon.

Sugar increases the risk of colon cancer in women.

There is a greater risk for Chron's disease with people who have a high intake of sugar.

Sugar can cause platelet adhesiveness.

Sugar can cause hormonal imbalance.

Sugar can lead to the formation of kidney stones.

Sugar can lead to the hypothalamus to become highly sensitive to a large variety of stimuli.

Sugar can lead to dizziness.

High sucrose diet significantly increases serum insulin.

High sucrose diets of subjects with peripheral vascular disease significantly increases platelet adhesion.

High sugar diet can lead to biliary tract cancer.

High sugar diets tend to be lower in antioxidant micro nutrients.

High sugar consumption of pregnant adolescents is associated with a twofold increased risk for delivering a small-for- gestational-age (SGA) infant.

High sugar consumption can lead to substantial decrease in gestation duration among adolescents with high sugar diets.

Sugar slows food's travel time through the gastrointestinal tract.

Sugar increases the concentration of bile acids in stools and bacterial enzymes in the colon can modify bile to produce cancer-causing compounds and colon cancer.

Sugar is associated with a substantial decrease in normal time of gestation among adolescents.

Sugar can cause a depletion in chromium which is tied to the development and progression of nearsightedness.

Sugar can be a risk factor of gallbladder cancer.

Sugar is an addictive substance.

Sugar can be intoxicating, similar to alcohol.

Sugar can exacerbate PMS.

Sugar suppresses lymphocytes.

Decrease in sugar can increase emotional stability.

The body changes sugar into 2 to 5 times more fat in the bloodstream than it does starch.

Sugar can cause inappropriate behavior and decreased performance in children.

Sugar can worsen the symptoms of children with attention deficit disorder (ADD).

The sugar in chewing gum can cause dental caries.

This list was written by Dr. Mercola, and taken from the website aroma-essence.com

Using alternatives to sugar such as Agave Syrup and Stevia are a much healthier option.

TO ORDER BLUE AGAVE SYRUP AND STEVIA CLICK HERE

Lavender Product Story

2009-09-16T00:01:00.000-04:00

Lavender essential oil has been beloved and treasured for thousands of years as one of nature’s greatest gifts for healing. Recorded usage of lavender dates back to Biblical times where it was used for bathing as well as a key ingredient in many of the most effective remedies of that time.

In the late 1900s, Rene Maurice Gattefosse, a French chemist and perfumer, discovered the amazing skin benefits of lavender oil after using it to treat his severely burned hand, which was healed completely without any trace of an infection or scar. Today, lavender essential oil is used in many skin care products, however, many companies dilute the oil, or use synthetically altered versions. The products in Young Living’s Lavender Signature Series contain only the finest Young Living Therapeutic Grade™ (YLTG) lavender essential oil, ensuring the maximum benefits of lavender oil are delivered.

Product Summary
Young Living’s Lavender Signature Series features a collection of all-natural personal care products infused with pure therapeutic-grade lavender essential oil.

What Makes These Products Unique?
Along with adding lavender essential oil to each product in this collection, great care has been taken to create all-natural and eco-friendly formulations, by ensuring that every ingredient used comes from sustainable sources. Lavender Hand & Body Lotion and Lavender Bath & Shower Gel also utilize a unique plant-based preservative system that is completely all-natural and free of synthetic components, which can be irritating to the skin.

Did You Know?
+ Traces of lavender were found in King Tutankamen’s tomb when it was opened in
1922. These traces even had a slight scent after being sealed in the tomb for more than 3,000 years.
+ The methods used to distill lavender essential oil thousands of years ago are the very same methods we use today to distill essential oils.
+ In the 16th century, lavender was used to protect people from cholera outbreaks.

Lavender Signature Series Products

~Lavender Foaming Hand Soap
Lavender Foaming Hand Soap, the newest addition to Young Living’s Lavender Signature Series, is a gentle, cleansing addition to our all-natural product line-up. Soothing and rejuvenating to even the most sensitive skin, just a small amount of this fragrant soap cleanses and conditions your skin without leaving it dry or irritated. Infused with lavender essential oil, Lavender Foaming Hand Soap is sure to become a household favorite.

~Lavender Hand & Body Lotion
Bring life back to your skin with this all-natural lightweight moisturizer infused with skin-loving lavender essential oil. Added nutrients such as wolfberry seed oil fortify your skin’s natural moisture barrier to maintain long-lasting hydration.

~Lavender Bath & Shower Gel
Relax your body and rejuvenate your mind with a soothing bath of nature’s finest lavender essential oil. All-natural ingredients work to refresh and condition your skin as you unwind from your busy day. Pour directly into the water for a luxurious bubble bath, or drop a quarter-sized amount onto a bath sponge and lather.

~Lavender Lip Balm
Repair and moisturize lips with nourishing blend of ingredients such as lavender essential oil, jojoba oil, and vitamin E.

~LavaDerm™ Cooling Mist
Bring relief to stressed skin with a blend of gentle skin-soothing ingredients including lavender essential oil and aloe vera. Spray directly onto the affected area and repeat every 10–15 minutes until desired relief is achieved.

~Lavender-Rosewood Bar Soap
Soothe and soften the skin as you cleanse with a nourishing all-natural formulation of ingredients such as aloe vera, jojoba oil, and nature’s finest lavender essential oil.

~Lavender Essential Oil (15 ml)
Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) has a fresh, sweet, herbaceous aroma that is soothing and refreshing. Lavender is an adaptogen, and can aid the body when adapting to stress or imbalances. It’s also great for relaxing and winding down
before bedtime, yet has balancing properties that can boost stamina and energy. Young Living Therapeutic Grade lavender is highly regarded for skin and beauty.

TO ORDER LAVENDER PRODUCTS CLICK HERE

give away contest!

2009-09-15T21:41:00.020-04:00

Have you become a fan on
facebook yet? If not, click on the link
on the main page of my blog, or go to

Lotus Flower Herbals FB fan page.

My 100th fan will receive a RELAX aromatherapy kit...

so help out by telling your friends and family about this contest. AND for all of your help and hard work, 2 of my existing fans will receive a mini RELAX aromatherapy kit for themselves!!

Essential Oil of the Month-September: Frankincense

2009-09-15T10:52:00.009-04:00

September is dedicated to introducing yourself to Young Living frankincense essential oil—the oil for promoting healthy skin and increased spirituality.

Frankincense (Boswellia carteri) essential oil is used to support skin health. Its earthy, balsamic scent has calming properties that can increase spirituality and inner strength. Useful for visualizing, improving one's spiritual connection, and centering, it has comforting properties that may help focus the mind and overcome stress and despair.

Frankincense is considered the holy anointing oil in the Middle East, where it has been used in religious ceremonies for thousands of years. More recently, it has been used in European and American hospitals.

The purity and potency of Young Living frankincense essential oil is all about the sourcing. Last year, Young Living Founder Gary Young explored the Middle East and Africa in search of the best frankincense available. On this journey, Gary and his team visited Young Living frankincense supplier’s harvesting and distillation operations and were able to verify, through observation and testing, that Young Living’s frankincense is one of the best true frankincense oils in existence.

How To Use Frankincense

Apply 1–2 drops to your face and neck daily to help repair sun damage, renew healthy-looking skin, and to minimize oil production and breakouts.
Drop on to minor cuts, scrapes, and bruises to reduce redness and discomfort.
Massage several drops on your temples or back of your neck for stress relief.
Diffuse to enrich prayer and meditation.
Inhale or diffuse to deepen breathing and induce calmness.

TO ORDER FRANKINCENSE ESSENTIAL OIL, CLICK HERE

First aid for insect bites

2009-09-11T11:56:00.009-04:00

I woke up one morning last week with a huge mosquito bite!! It was so bad, it didn't even itch! It just hurt. A LOT! I decided to use my essential oils right away. Because of their outstanding antiseptic and oil-soluble properties, essential oils are ideal for treating most kinds of insect bites. Essential oils such as Lavender and Peppermint reduce insect bite induced itching and infection.

First I dabbed on a little Lavender, which calmed down the throbbing feeling. Then after about an hour I put on Young Living's Purification blend. Then I made a little "Bite Blend" as I like to call it. It works wonders. The bite felt better within a few hours, and is now almost completely healed.

Here is the recipe:

BITE BLEND
2 drops Thyme
10 drops Lavender
4 drops Eucalyptus Radiata
3 drops German Chamomile

You can either use neat, or dilute 50:50 with high quality vegetable oil, like V-6 oil, for children and sensitive skin types. Apply 1-2 drops of the blend 2-4 times daily.

To purchase Therapeutic Grade Essential oils, click HERE.

Make your own cleaning products!

2009-09-05T14:30:00.008-04:00

Making your own household cleaning supplies is easy. Most modern synthetic cleaning products are based on age-old formulas using natural ingredients that were passed down through the generations. Going back to the original, naturally derived, ingredients is a way to make cleaning products that work, don’t pollute, and save you money. Most are found in your kitchen cupboards. Mix and match with well-chosen and environmentally friendly green cleaning products now found in most grocery stores, and you can easily and simply transform your home into a non-toxic and safe environment for your family.
Making your own nontoxic cleaning kit will take you no time at all with these simple, straightforward directions, and with this kit you will be supplied with enough cleaning product for months of cleaning.
As an added bonus, ounce for ounce homemade cleaning formulas cost about one-tenth the price of their commercial counterpart—and that includes worthwhile essential oils, and concentrated, all-purpose detergents for homemade recipes.

SUPPLIES
Baking soda
Washing soda
White distilled vinegar
A good liquid soap or detergent
Essential oils: Tea tree oil, Thieves blend, Lemon oil,and Purification blend.
6 clean spray bottles
2 glass jars

CREAMY SOFT SCRUBBER
Simply pour about 1/2 cup of baking soda into a bowl, 3-5 drops of Lemon essential oil, and add enough liquid detergent to make a texture like frosting. Scoop the mixture onto a sponge, and wash the surface. This is the perfect recipe for cleaning the bathtub because it rinses easily and doesn’t leave grit, and the Lemon oil is antiseptic, as well as a clean scent.

Note: Add 1 teaspoon of vegetable glycerin to the mixture and store in a sealed glass jar, to keep the product moist. Otherwise just make as much as you need at a time.

WINDOW CLEANER
1/4-1/2 teaspoon liquid detergent
3 tablespoons vinegar
2 cups water
Spray bottle

Put all the ingredients into a spray bottle, shake it up a bit, and use as you would a commercial brand. The soap in this recipe is important. It cuts the wax residue from the commercial brands you might have used in the past.

ALL-PURPOSE SPRAY CLEANER
1/2 teaspoon washing soda
A dab of liquid soap
2 cups hot tap water

Combine the ingredients in a spray bottle and shake until the washing soda has dissolved. Apply and wipe off with a sponge or rag.

~ADD 5-7 drops of Essential oils; Thieves blend, Tea Tree oil or Lemon; to the spray cleaner to make it antibacterial/antiseptic. Use in the bathroom, kitchen, or anywhere!

~use tupperware or recycle an old plastic container with a sealed lid to make antibacterial wipes. Just fill the container with strong washable wipes, or strong paper towels, folded up. Then fill the container with the all purpose cleaner + essential oil blend. Keep tightly sealed so the wipes don't dry up.

FURNITURE POLISH
1/2 teaspoon oil, such as olive (or jojoba, a liquid wax)
1/4 cup vinegar or 3-5 drops of Lemon essential oil
Mix the ingredients in a glass jar. Dab a soft rag into the solution and wipe onto wood surfaces. Cover the glass jar and store indefinitely, you can also put into a spray bottle.

MOLD KILLER/PET SMELL

Nothing natural works for pet smells, mold, and mildew as well as this spray. I’ve used it successfully on a moldy ceiling from a leaking roof, on a musty bureau, a musty rug, and a moldy shower curtain. We used this a lot when our puppies were learning how to potty train! It is also wonderful for near the kitty litter box! Thieves oil is strong, and a little goes a very long way. Note that the smell of the oil is very strong, but it will dissipate in a few days.
2 teaspoons Thieves oil
2 cups water
Combine in a spray bottle, shake to blend, and spray on problem areas. Do not rinse. Makes two cups.
*YOU CAN ALSO USE TEA TREE OIL*

AIR FRESHENER/LINEN SPRAY

10 drops of essential oil: Purification blend, Lavender or your favorite scent
2 cups water
spray bottle

Mix in a spray bottle, and use on linens, in closets, bathrooms, kitchen etc... I use Lemon in my bathroom spray for it's antibacterial properties, and Lavender in my bedroom, due to its relaxing properties. You can experiment with different scents.
TO ORDER THERAPEUTIC GRADE ESSENTIAL OILS, CLICK HERE

Aromatherapy For the Immune System

2009-09-02T23:45:00.003-04:00

This year flu season is expected to hit harder than usual. Be prepared by supporting your Immune System. The best way to do this is by getting adequate nutrition, supplementing with Therapeutic grade essential oils, and washing your hands often.

Making sure your body has everything it needs to function correctly is essential to good health and maintaining a healthy Immune system. Eating fresh vegetables and fruit is optimum, but sometimes that isn't possible. Using a multivitamin to supplement the diet can be very helpful. Make sure the supplements are food based so the body can recognize and utilize the contents. Young living makes a few different kinds, so finding the right fit is easy. The best one for children is the Kidscents MightyVite s.

Using essential oils to fortify the immune system is easy. Up to 40% of Immune system function is in the intestinal tract. Another 40% is found in the thymus gland, which produces immune-stimulating cells. Dietary supplements containing essential oils can boost immune system function. ImmuPro, Exodus II, Sulfurzyme, ImmuPower, ImmuneTone, Super C, Thyromin and Mineral Essence each have their own benefits. They can be taken together or alone, creating a regimen which can be tailored to your own individual needs and concerns.

Essential oils can be used to support the Immune system. Always be sure to use Therapeutic grade essential oils, as they have been grown with high standards, and processed without hazardous chemicals. Cheaper oils processed with lower grade plants do not have a high amount of healing compounds, and have substances that can actually poison you rather than help you. Young Living carries only Therapeutic grade essential oils.

The following oils have proven useful:

SINGLE OILS: Frankincense with ravensara, thyme, helichrysum, oregano, rosemary, chamomile, Idaho tansy, mountain savory, melissa, lavender, grapefruit, lemon, cinnamon, clove, cumin, cistus, melaluca, myrrh, myrtle, rose, vetiver or lemongrass.

BLENDS: Frankincense with Thieves, ImmuPower, Abundance, Humility, R.C., or 3 Wise Men.

Using a diffuser to reduce airborne pathogens and viruses that can overwhelm the immune system is a good way to use Essential oils for healing. Most oils need to be diluted for use topically. Always use a high quality vegetable oil such as V-6, almond or olive oil works well also. Add 1-4 drops of Essential oils to water or rice/almond milk, or use capsules to use oils internally. Follow the directions on the bottle of each oil for specific dosage information. *When using Essential oils with children, mix 1-2 drops of desired oil with 1 tbsp. of V-6 oil or other vegetable oil, then apply to the bottoms of feet, or other area of concern.*

Some of the most important products for killing germs are in the Thieves line. Read the history of Thieves here to find out it's amazing story of healing. I recommend the Thieves essential oil blend, the foaming hand soap and the waterless hand sanitizer for the back to school crowd. These three products will really help your kids to ward off the germies, without the side effects of Triclosan, the agent used in other antibacterial products. Triclosan is being held responsible in the creation of antibiotic resistant strains of bacteria, including the MRSA type infections we are seeing in schools all over the country. Teaching kids good hygiene is important and very necessary to stop the spread of germs. Using Thieves waterless hand sanitizer makes it easy for kids to do.

To order Therapeutic Grade Essential oils and other Young Living products click HERE

What does Therapeutic Grade mean?

2009-09-02T23:01:00.011-04:00

Anyone Can Claim to Be Therapeutic Grade. Only Young Living Can Claim Young Living Therapeutic Grade™.

The process Young Living uses when planting, cultivating, harvesting, and distilling a batch of oil is crucial to retaining its vital compounds. Without the exact blend of naturally-occurring plant chemicals, an essential oil can lose its beneficial properties and fail to produce the desired effect.

Young Living Therapeutic Grade (YLTG) means that every essential oil Young Living distills or sources has the optimal naturally-occurring blend of constituents to maximize the desired effect. Young Living is able to make this assertion because of our strict cultivation process—illustrated by the Four Ps—that guarantees the optimal potency of every Young Living essential oil.
Cheaper oils may contain toxic chemicals used to extract the oils from plants that are of a lesser quality. The chemicals can enter your body when using cheaper oils, and do more harm than the benefit of the Essential oil itself. Always make sure you are using Therapeutic Grade to avoid exposure to these toxic chemicals.

Plants

An oil's potency can be affected not only by selecting the proper plant to cultivate, but also by where the plant is grown, the quality of soil in which the seed is planted, and even the time of day it's harvested.
Young Living has extensive experience selecting the correct species of plant for desired oil potency, planting under optimal conditions, using ideal soil and natural methods to encourage growth, and knowing the precise time to harvest each crop. Only those plants that produce the most active and widest array of therapeutic compounds are selected.

Preparation

Once the optimal soil, plant, cultivation, and harvesting conditions have been adhered to, the plants must be distilled properly in order to meet YLTG standards. Young Living uses a gentle, proprietary technique for steam-extracting the most potent essential oils, which remains unmatched throughout the essential oils industry.
To meet YLTG distillation standards proper temperature must be maintained throughout the distillation process, and pressure, length of time, equipment, and batch size are strictly monitored.

Purity

YLTG standards prohibit the acceptance of any diluted, cut or adulterated oils. Every product Young Living produces—essential oils, oil blends, nutritional supplements, or personal care—meets strict purity standards.
Every batch of essential oils is subjected to rigorous, state-of-the-art analysis at the Young Living chemistry lab. Using some of the most advanced equipment in the world, our scientists subject every batch of essential oils to Gas Chromatograph and Mass Spectrometer testing, and heavy metals analysis. Oils that exhibit even the slightest hint of possible adulteration or tampering are rejected.

Potency

The culmination of the preceding three stages, Potency means that the naturally occurring compounds contained in each essential oil product are of the highest and most consistent bioactive levels. Without strict adherence to the YLTG standard in the Plant, Preparation, and Purity phases, the final product would not have the necessary potency to create the desired effect.
This information is from the Young Living website.
To order Therapeutic Grade Essential Oils click HERE

Everyday Nutrition and Essential Oil Supplements

2009-09-02T22:48:00.005-04:00

Hectic schedules and increasing personal demands make eating a well-balanced diet seem impossible. The average person consumes only a fraction of the recommended nine daily servings of fruits and vegetables, and as a result needs nutrient-dense vitamins and minerals to supplement his or her diet. In fact, current research indicates that more than 64 percent of American adults are either obese or overweight—a 14 percent increase from 20 years ago.

Poor nutrition can lead to a variety of health concerns like fatigue, a compromised immune system, and poor digestion. Young Living makes it easy to combat these issues and incorporate better eating habits into your busy schedule. From the energizing, replenishing, and fortifying benefits of NingXia Redto a wide array whole food-sourced multivitamins and great-tasting, essential oil-infused meal replacements, Young Living has unique, effective solutions!

Improved Wellness with Essential Oil Supplements

Infusing nutritional supplements with the added benefit of essential oils enables nature's living energy to provide internal bodily support. Products like Longevity and Omega Blue contribute to overall wellness by balancing dietary insufficiencies and infusing the body with essential oils.

Multivitamins for Core Nutrition

The average person consumes only a fraction of required daily nutrients, so it is important to take vitamins and minerals to supplement your diet. Enhancing your diet with a whole food-sourced multi is an excellent way to ensure optimal wellness, regardless of age or individual nutritional requirements. The benefits of Young Living's whole food-sourced multivitamins far surpass those offered by synthetic supplements.

Enzymes and Minerals for Core Nutrition

The modern diet is comprised primarily of convenient, pre-packaged meals. These nutrient-deficient choices are full of synthetic flavor enhancers and lack the important dietary minerals our bodies require. Young Living offers a variety of detoxifying enzymes and mineral supplements to help rid the body of unnecessary and potentially damaging substances.

Young Living's Most Popular Product Recommendations for Everyday Nutrition

NingXia Red: A superfood-sourced, essential oil-infused supplement, plus the vitamins and antioxidants your body requires.
True Source: The Young Living multivitamin with the widest array of whole food-sourced nutrients.
Longevity: A potent blend of fat-soluble antioxidants.
Omega Blue: Clinically proven to supplement the body with crucial levels of omega-3 fatty acid nutrients.
Life 5 Probiotic that builds and restores core intestinal health.
Essentialzyme: An advanced multi-enzyme complex that promotes digestion and assists in the assimilation of nutrients.
Mineral Essence: An excellent way to provide the body with vital nutrients.

*This information is from the Young Living website.
To order click HERE

KidScents MightyVites

2009-09-02T22:14:00.004-04:00

Young Living carries whole food nutrition in a chewable form for children. MightyVites are a great tasting (wild berry and orange cream flavors), chewable multivitamin formulated from whole food extracts, especially for children in their early growth years (and also for adult maintenance in late years). Made with Ningxia wolfberry (Lycium barbarum) MightyVites uses nutrient dense suprefruits, plants, and veggies to deliver the full spectrum of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and phytonutrients, all in their whole, synergistic and easily-absorbable form.

KidScents MightyVites contain: Vitamin A (alpha & Beta carotene), Vitamin C (as ascorbic acid) from oranges, Vitamin D (as cholecalciferol), Vitamin E (as d-alpha tocopheryl acid succinate), Vitamin K (as phytonadione), Thiamine (vitamin B 1 as thiamine mononitrate), Riboflavin (Vitamin B2), Niacin (as niacinamide) (Vitamin B3), Vitamin B6 (as pyridoxine HCI), Vitamin B6 (as pyridoxal-5-phosphate), Folate (as Folic Acid), Vitamin B12 (as methylcobalamin), Biotin, (Vitamin H), Panthothenic acid (as d-calcium pantothenate), Iodine (as potassium iodide), Magnesium (as magnesium oxide), Zinc (as zinc yeast complex), Selenium (as selenium yeast complex), Copper (as copper yeast complex), Chromium (as chromium yeast complex), choline (from soy lecithin), Ningxia wolfberry (lycium barbarum) fruit, tocotrienois (from natural palm oil), lecithin (soy), malic acid from apples, olive (olea europea) leaf extract, curcumins (from tumeric rhizome), broccoli (brassica oleracea) floret, barley (hordeum vulgare) grass, MSM (methylsulfonylmethane), spirulina (s. platensis) algae, boron (as boron AAC), lutein (from marigold flowers), natural flavors [orange juice powder, cherry juice powder, grape skin powder (30% polyphenols), strawberry juice powder, and other natural flavors], sorbitol, fructose, citric acid, silica, magnesium stearate, and dicalcium phosphate.

Directions for use:

Children 6-12 years old, take three chewable tablets daily. Can be taken before breakfast, lunch, or dinner or in one daily dose.

Caution: Do not exceed recommended dosage. If pregnant, nursing, taking medication, or have a medical condition, consult a healthcare practitioner prior to use.

Please vote

2009-09-01T15:32:00.004-04:00

I have been working on a few different Holistic Aromatherapy kits. I would like to know which kits you feel are most useful. So I made a poll on my blog, it is on the top right hand corner of the main page. Feel free to choose as many options as you like. If you think of a kit that is not listed, feel free to comment on this post and tell me your ideas! I value your opinion, and am very grateful. Once the polling closes, I will be announcing a contest giving away 2 of the kits that are most popular. Once again, thanks for helping me out!!
Namaste, Anne

YOUNG LIVING MEMBERSHIP BENEFITS

2009-09-01T15:02:00.000-04:00

To take advantage of Young Living's amazing Therapeutic Grade Essential Oils, become a member HERE. It is free to join as a retail customer. For a one time fee of $40, you can save up to an additional 25% off of retail prices by becoming an Independent Distributor. In addition to these savings, you receive:

1 Start Living Kit, which includes:
1 - Welcome Letter
1 - Start Living Brochure
1 - Diffuser Coupon
1 - Essential Rewards Brochure
1 - Restore Your Core Brochure
1 - 5-Day Nutritive Cleanse Brochure
1 - Thieves Booklet
1 - Everyday Oils Booklet
1 - Essential Oils User's Guide
1 - Product Guide
1 - Price List
1 - Policies & Procedures
1 - Roadmap for Success Booklet
1 - Creating Abundance Booklet
1 - Compensation Plan Flyer
1 - Team Performance Flyer
3 - Distributor Application/Agreement
3 - Customer/Preferred Customer Form
1 - NingXia Red DVD
1 - Gold of the Ages DVD
1 - A·R·T DVD
1 - 5 ml Lavender
1 - 5 ml Peppermint
3 - NingXia Red Singles

TO GET STARTED WITH A KIT OF OILS, THERE ARE A FEW SPECIALLY PRICED OPTIONS:

Start Living with Everyday Oils
In addition to the product information, service explanations, sales aids, and training materials included in the Start Living Kit, this exclusive enrollment option also contains nine of our top-selling essential oils and essential oil blends. The specially-selected oils in this collection offer ongoing benefits for your health, home, and body. Enjoy the relaxing benefits of lavender and Peace & Calming, the cleansing power of Thieves and Purification, the comforting touch of Valor and PanAway, and more!

The Everyday Oils enrollment kit provides everything you need to professionally and confidently share Young Living's therapeutic-grade essential oils with others, all at a $10.00 savings over individual product pricing.

Everyday Oils includes:
1 - 5 ml Frankincense
1 - 5 ml Lemon
1 - 5 ml Lavender
1 - 5 ml Peppermint
1 - 5 ml Purification
1 - 5 ml Panaway
1 - 5 ml Peace & Calming®
1 - 5 ml Thieves®
1 - 5 ml Valor®

OTHER KITS INCLUDE
Essence Of The Season Kit
Essential 7 Kit
Feelings Kit
Golden Touch 1 Kit
Raindrop Technique Kit
Twelve Oils Of Ancient Scripture Kit
Aroma Complete Kit With Case

No need to sell to others, yet you receive a great discount, and the opportunity to earn free merchandise, just by ordering your own oils! The Autoship option also saves you money on shipping, by offering a flat rate on your automatic monthly order.

If you DO decide to share your experience, and want to take advantage of a great business opportunity by sharing Young Living with your family and friends, there is a great wealth of information HERE to educate yourself. For more details, or for any questions that you might need answered, feel free to email me directly at lotusflowerherbals.com@gmail.com

AROMATHERAPY FOR KIDS

2009-08-28T01:42:00.000-04:00

Aromatherapy for kids is an approach to emotional well being and healing through the use of Essential oils. Oils used in aromatherapy can have a profound effect on the body, mind and soul.

A gentle hug, smile or a kiss are forms of connection, bonding between the parent and the child. Babies can recognize their mother's scent, hence making them extremely sensitive to any kind of fragrance, pleasant or unpleasant. Fragrant essential oils used during the upbringing of your child supports your little one's health, happiness and well being.

Essential oils have distinct composition determining the fragrance, color, and effect on our body. Before you introduce your child to the aromatic world of fragrances, seek advice from a qualified aromatherapist, if possible, and carry out detailed research yourself on the oil you plan to use on your infant or child.

Listed below are few commonly used essential oils that are used for kids.

- Lavender oil is a great aid for relaxing and winding down before bedtime, yet has balancing properties that can also boost stamina and energy. Therapeutic-grade lavender is highly regarded for skin and beauty. It may be used to soothe and cleanse common cuts, bruises, and skin irritations, including burns. It is excellent home remedy for headaches, earaches and even insect bites.

- Geranium oil is excellent for the skin, and its aromatic influence helps release negative memories. Used traditionally to support the circulatory and nervous systems, a great deal of its strength lies in its ability to revitalize body tissues.

- Rose oil helps bring balance and harmony with stimulating and uplifting properties that create a sense of well-being and self-confidence. Used for skin care for thousands of years, it is perfect for dry or aging skin, so it acts as a good skin softener, toner and natural astringent.

- Roman Chamomile oil is relaxing, calming and soothing for the skin. Its gentleness makes it especially valuable for restless children. It's also beneficial when added to massage oil for relief of muscle discomfort after exercise, or for growing pains.

- Peppermint oil is one of the oldest and most highly regarded herbs for soothing digestion, it may also restore digestive efficiency.

- Lemon oil has a strong, purifying, citrus scent that is revitalizing and uplifting. Lemon consists of 68 percent dlimonene, a powerful antioxidant. It is delightfully refreshing in water and may be beneficial for the skin. It is a powerful natural cleanser.

- Ginger oil has a warm, spicy fragrance that is energizing. Supportive of the digestive system, ginger is commonly used to soothe, comfort, and balance digestive discomfort.

- Sage oil is helpful for supporting the respiratory, reproductive, nervous, and other body systems. Sage may help in coping with temper tantrums or feeling overwhelmed. It is used traditionally in Europe for the skin and hair.

- Grapefruit oil has a fresh, citrus aroma that is energizing and uplifting. Rich in the powerful antioxidant d-limonene, it is nourishing to the skin. It is useful for oily skin, acne and cradle cap.

- Tea tree oil (Melaleuca alternifolia) is highly regarded for its wide range of uses. It has beneficial properties including antiseptic, antifungal, and antibacterial action. It supports the immune system and is beneficial for the skin. Commonly known as Tea Tree Oil. Dilute before using on sensitive areas such as the face, neck, genital area, etc.

- Cedarwood oil has a warm, balsamic, woody aroma. It is relaxing and soothing when used for massage, improves oily skin , acne and is excellent for cradle cap. It is also a decongestant and helps to break up congestion.

- Eucalyptus oil (Eucalyptus radiata) is cooling, refreshing, and energizing. It's antibacterial, antiviral action makes it useful for colds, influenza, and other respiratory illnesses. Lighter in smell than Eucalyptus globulus, it has many of the same supportive properties. Because it is relatively gentle and non irritating, it is the preferred choice for children.

- Thyme oil is one of the strongest antioxidants known. Thyme is antiseptic and supports the immune, respiratory, digestive, nervous, and other body systems. It is helpful for colds and influenza.

- Lavender, Sage, Cedarwood, and Lemon oils, when used together, provide relief from dandruff and cradle cap.

- For any bruises and burns, use Tea tree and Lavender oils.

- Cedarwood, Eucalyptus and Tea tree oils alleviate coughs.

- Ginger, Lavender and Thyme oil works wonders on sore throats.

- Lavender and Roman Chamomile oil blend allows for restful sleep at night.

- Lemon and Grapefruit oils added to a tub of warm water for a bath refreshes and rejuvenates a child.

A word of caution for any parents planning on using aromatherapy oils on their children. Only use therapeutic grade oils. Lesser oils have been manufactured using toxic chemicals that can be harmful for you and your child. Please exercise caution while using essential oils. Since essential oils are highly concentrated, make sure that they are properly diluted with water or carrier oils, such as pure olive oil or vegetable oil such as Young Living's V-6 oil. Improper dilution can result in skin irritation for your little ones. Don't let your children be alone while using essential oils.

CLICK HERE TO ORDER THERAPEUTIC GRADE ESSENTIAL OILS

Summer Recipes

2009-08-27T16:45:00.012-04:00

Planning on a picnic this weekend? Summer is the perfect time to incorporate essential oils into your activities and your food. And since no one wants to spend time in the hot kitchen, here are some quick and easy recipes that you can whip up and enjoy anytime. You’ll get a tasty summer treat, plus the benefits of Young Living Therapeutic Grade™ essential oils.
Refreshing Cherry Lemonade

2/3 c. Blue Agave
4 drops lemon essential oil
4 large lemons
1 bottle sparkling cherry soda
Filtered water

In a gallon pitcher, combine agave, lemon essential oil, juice of lemons, and sparkling cherry soda. Mix well and add filtered water to fill pitcher. Chill in refrigerator and serve over ice. Garnish with sprig of mint or lemon wedge. Makes eight 16-ounce servings.

Tomato Cucumber Summer Salad

1/2 c. cider vinegar
1 tsp. Blue Agave
1 tsp. salt
1 drop dill essential oil
1 drop black pepper essential oil
4 Tbsp. vegetable oil
4 cucumbers sliced
2 c. red onion chopped
4 ripe tomatoes cut into wedges

In a large bowl, mix vinegar, sugar, salt, dill essential oil, black pepper essential oil, and vegetable oil. Add cucumbers, onion, and tomatoes. Toss and chill in refrigerator at least 30 minutes before serving.

Ginger Cinnamon Glazed Peaches

1/4 c. Blue Agave
3 drops ginger essential oil
3 drops cinnamon bark essential oil
1 Tbsp. butter
4 peaches quartered

Stir agave and essential oils together and set aside. Add butter to frying pan. Heat on medium. Add peaches once butter has melted. Gently cook peaches 1–2 minutes. Brush agave mixture on each side of peaches. Allow glaze to caramelize on each side. Once peaches are caramelized on each side remove from heat. Drizzle remaining glaze on peaches and serve. Makes 4–8 servings.

TO ORDER THERAPEUTIC GRADE ESSENTIAL OILS CLICK HERE

~these recipes are from the Young Living product blog

Raindrop Technique

2009-08-22T14:14:00.006-04:00

The Raindrop Technique is a method of using Vita Flex, reflexology, massage techniques, etc., and essential oils applied on various locations of the body to bring it structural and electrical alignment. It is designed to bring balance to the body with its relaxing and mild application. It will help align the energy centers of the body and release them if blocked, without using hard pressure or trying to force the body to change, which should never be done.

The Young Living Raindrop Technique® collection provides a revolutionary means of bringing balance and harmony to the body - physically, mentally, and emotionally.

Contains: Seven Single Oils (5ml bottles): Thyme, Basil, Peppermint, Oregano, Wintergreen, Cypress and Marjoram. Two Oil Blends (5ml bottles): Valor® & Aroma Seiz™. Also contains one 4-oz. bottle of Ortho Ease® Aromatherapy Massage Oil and one 4-oz. V-6™ Enhanced Vegetable Oil Complex.

The Raindrop collection also includes an instructional DVD and mini brochure that teach you how to perform the Raindrop Technique® on others.

Everybody is different, and what works for one may not work for another. Different body types respond to the applications in ways not expected. Learn to be sensitive to yourself; or when working with others, to the person to whom you are working with; so that you can respond to his or her needs.

The question is often asked, "How long does the application last?" Again, everybody responds differently. Generally speaking, the level of health and proper diet are key factors as are exercise and mental attitude. One application may last months for one person, but then for another it may be necessary to have the application done every week until the body begins to respond. The key is to retrain the body. In some cases, you will have to develop a new memory in the tissue in order for the body to stay where it should be. This may take a few weeks or even a year or longer.

TO ORDER THE YOUNG LIVING RAINDROP COLLECTION CLICK HERE

TO SCHEDULE A RAINDROP THERAPY SESSION CLICK HERE

When you need a little help...

2009-08-18T00:10:00.003-04:00

This time of year can be very overwhelming and stressful. Getting back into the routine of the school year with your children, the change of the seasons, etc... can upset even the most emotionally balanced of us all.

Valerian (Valeriana officinalis) root has been used for thousands of years for its calming, grounding, and emotionally balancing influences. During the last three decades, it has been clinically investigated for its relaxing properties. Researchers have pinpointed the sesquiterpenes, valerenic acid, and valerone as the active constituents that exert a calming and restorative effect on the central nervous system.* German health authorities have pronounced valerian to be an effective aid for the body's needs. Valerian has an approximate ORAC of 61,935 (TE/L). TE/L is expressed as micromole Trolox equivalent per liter.

For dietary or topical use. When using as a supplement, dilute one drop in 4 fl. oz. of liquid such as soy or rice milk.
*Possible skin sensitivity. If pregnant or under a doctor's care, consult your physician.

This product contains Young Living Therapeutic Grade™ valerian essential oil (Valeriana officinalis).

TO ORDER VALERIAN CLICK HERE

Valor

2009-08-13T10:34:00.003-04:00

Valor® is an empowering combination of therapeutic-grade essential oils that works with both the physical and spiritual aspects of the body to increase feelings of strength, courage, and self-esteem in the face of adversity. Renowned for its strengthening qualities, Valor enhances an individual's internal resources. It has also been found to help energy alignment in the body.**

I use Valor when I feel anxious, or worried, or when I feel overwhelmed by things in my life. I even used it during Jaden's 31+ hour long labor and birth many times when I felt like giving up. It gives you the courage to face what is happening head on with renewed energy and a clear head.

Valor contains: Spruce (Picea mariana), Rosewood (Aniba rosaeodora), Blue Tansy (Tanacetum annuum) and Frankincense (Boswellia carteri) in a base of almond oil.

For topical or aromatic use. Apply on bottoms of feet and to throat, wrists, chest and the base of the neck.*

~ORDER VALOR HERE

*Possible skin sensitivity. If pregnant or under a doctor's care, consult your physician. Dilution not required; suitable for all but the most sensitive skin. Generally safe for children over 2 years of age.
**This statement has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent disease.

Reflexology

2009-08-12T18:33:00.005-04:00

Look at your feet and hands as a final destinations for over 7000 nerve endings that are connected to every organ, body part and gland in your body. When you massage and use acupressure on these specific points, you are directly stimulating blood flow to the correct areas to increase the function of your body parts that may not be operating at the best capacity.

Here is a chart of Reflex points on the hands

and here is a chart for the Reflex points on the feet

These are fun tools to help you get to know the Reflex points better...

Using Essential oils in combination with Reflexology can enhance your results. Always use Therapeutic grade oils and follow the guidelines for each oil.
TO ORDER YOUNG LIVING THERAPEUTIC OILS CLICK HERE

Clary Sage

2009-08-12T17:51:00.006-04:00

Grown on Young Living Lavender Farm in Mona, Utah, clary sage contains natural chemicals that the body can easily modify to balance hormones. It may also relieve soreness associated with PMS. With its mellow, warm, herbal scent, this Therapeutic Grade essential oil can be used in massage or applied directly to the reflexology points on the feet. Clary sage also contains high levels of an ester called linalyl acetate, a compound that is considered balancing to the nervous system.*

In addition to its balancing properties, clary sage strengthens and tones skin and may make you look and feel younger.*

Use a Young Living Diffuser to disperse the therapeutic benefits of clary sage into the air.
Add 2 to 3 drops of clary sage to a bowl of steaming hot water and breathe in the steam for a few minutes with a towel draped over your head to capture the vapor.
Mix 15 to 20 drops of clary sage in one ounce of V6-Enhanced Vegetable Oil for a relaxing massage.

TO ORDER CLARY SAGE CLICK HERE
*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent disease.

NingXia Red Sorbet Recipe

2009-08-10T22:45:00.004-04:00

NingXia Red Sorbet

½ c. water
¼ c. agave
2 c. NingXia Red®
2 12-oz. bags frozen raspberries
1 orange

In a small sauce pan, simmer Blue Agave and water for 1–2 minutes or until agave mixes easily with the water. Set aside to cool slightly. In a blender, puree NingXia Red and one bag of raspberries. Transfer mixture into a metal bowl and stir in the zest of half the orange. Next, squeeze half the orange into the mixture. Place agave and water mixture into blender along with the remaining bag of raspberries and puree. If mixture becomes too thick, simply add a cup of the mixture in the bowl. Pour into bowl and fold in until well mixed. Place in freezer and freeze for two hours. Serves 12–15.

Gentle Baby

2009-08-09T19:43:00.004-04:00

Gentle Baby™ is a soft, fragrant combination of essential oils designed specifically for mothers and babies. It helps calm emotions during pregnancy and is useful for quieting troubled little ones. It is also soothing to tender skin. Many of the essential oils in this blend are used in elite cosmetics to enhance a youthful appearance.

For aromatic use. Diffuse or apply on mother's abdomen, feet, lower back, face, and neck areas. Dilute with V-6™ Enhanced Vegetable Oil Complex for full body massage and for applying on baby's skin.

**Because of the photo-sensitivity of bergamot, which is in this blend, do not apply to skin that will be exposed to direct sunlight within 48 hours.

Gentle Baby contains: Rosewood (Aniba rosaeodora), Geranium (pelargonium graveolens), Palmarosa (Cymbopogon martinii), Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia), Roman Chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile), Ylang Ylang (Cananga odorata), Lemon (Citrus limon), Jasmine (Jasminum officinale), Bergamot (citrus bergamia), and Rose (Rosa damascena).

TO ORDER GENTLE BABY ESSENTIAL OIL BLEND CLICK HERE

Life 5 Probiotics

2009-08-08T18:28:00.004-04:00

Product Summary
Life 5 builds and restores core intestinal health.
Science is revealing that probiotics are especially important because of their positive effect on the bowel. Many do not realize that the bowel is the source of core health and vitality. This is where the all-important transfer of nutrients to the bloodstream takes place. It is also the command center of the immune system and eliminator of waste products. If the bowel is not working properly, optimal health is impossible and the body is vulnerable to myriad conditions. If the problem is not corrected, severe bowel or gastrointestinal conditions sometimes develop.

Primary Benefits
+ Greater energy: Probiotics have been shown to assist the body in manufacturing important B vitamins and improving nutrient absorption.
+ Improved immunity: Probiotics, especially the super strain (LA-14), have been shown to be a tremendous support to immune function.
+ Intestinal health: By building bowel health, probiotics can enhance virtually every body system, but they have clinically shown to support normal elimination, improve digestion, boost immunity, and reduce yeast.

Who Should Use This Product?
Life 5 may be used by healthy children and adults to help maintain optimal well-being. Research indicates that those concerned with proper digestive function will benefit from taking Life 5. Life 5 may also be taken by those who wish to improve nutrient absorption, increase energy levels, and improve immune health. This product can be taken intensively at onset, during or after illness to boost immunity and support recovery. It is especially important after taking antibiotics or suffering any gastrointestinal distress.

What Makes This Product Unique?
Life 5 represents the culmination of years of extensive research. Here are just a few of the things that make it the superior choice:
+ Active and viable cultures. Life 5 uses hearty probiotic strains and is not subjected to heat during preparation and storage.
+ Clinically proven strains at the proper amounts.The strains in Life 5 represent some of the most proven health-promoting strains (e.g., L. acididophilus [LA-14], Howaru™ Rhamnosus, Howaru™ Bifido, S. thermophilus, and B. bifidum).
+ Strains proven to adhere and colonize in the intestines. The probiotics in Life 5 were chosen specifically for their tendency and ability to colonize in the bowel and out-compete harmful bacteria. Plus, Life 5’s proprietary blend contains ingredients shown to improve adherence of beneficial bacteria up to ten times.
+ Super strains proven to boost immunity, improve nutrient absorption, and relieve bowel distress (e.g., Howaru Bifido, Howaru Rhamnosus, and L. acidiophulis [LA-14]).

Did You Know?
+ Life 5 delivers five proven probiotic strains including three advanced super strains.
+ The number of bacteria present in the intestine (intestinal flora) is ten times greater than the cells of the organism. In adults, up to 100,000 billion bacteria belonging to 600 different species are present.
+ Between 70 to 85 percent of the immune cells in our bodies are present in the gastrointestinal tract.
+ A recent study from the University of Reading, UK, stated that the level of positive bacteria in the gut diminishes by 1,000 times by the time we reach the ages of sixty to sixty-five.
+ According to a 2007 study at the Wilhelmina Children’s Hospital, “Modification of intestinal microbiota early in life by administration of probiotic bacteria may be a potential approach to prevent allergic disease.”
+ Some common things that can increase the need for probiotic supplementation:
~Virtually any drug OTC or otherwise, especially antibiotics
~Drinking chlorinated water
~Cesarean birth.
~Low-fiber diet
~Stress

TO ORDER LIFE 5 PROBIOTICS, CLICK HERE

THE 5 DAY NUTRITIVE CLEANSE

2009-08-07T22:20:00.008-04:00

The 5-Day Nutritive Cleanse™ facilitates gentle and effective cleansing to improve overall health and well-being.* A minimum of four, easy cleanses a year with our 5-Day Nutritive Cleanse and continued nutritional maintenance will help balance the extremes of the modern diet.

This nutritive cleanse includes the following: Ningxia Red, an energizing, replenishing, whole wolfberry nutrient infusion
(1 liter ); Balance Complete, a super-food-based, daily, superfood energizer and nutritive cleanse (26.4 oz.);
Digest + cleanse, which soothes gastrointestinal discomfort and supports healthy digestion* ( 30 softgels ).

Young Living’s Balance Complete is an energizing, superfood shake high in a Young Living proprietary fiber blend called V-Fiber™. Research from the Life Extension Foundation shows that fiber blends produce more viscosity (thickness and absorption) and are more effective than one type of fiber alone. Young Living’s cutting-edge blend of soluble and insoluble fiber (11 grams per serving) is ideal for cleansing, weight-loss, and everyday health maintenance.

Digest + Cleanse is a totally unique Purely Oils product. It supplies therapeutic-grade peppermint, caraway, lemon, and other essential oils directly to the intestine with Precision Delivery softgel capsules. Research shows that enteric-coated peppermint is effective for gastrointestinal upset. A blend of peppermint and caraway oil, taken three times daily, is shown to reduce gas and soothe the intestinal tract. Lemon oil, another key ingredient in Digest + Cleanse, has an equally long history. Jean Valnet, famous medical doctor and practitioner of aromatherapy, says lemon oil stimulates gastrohepatic and pancreatic secretions. Other supportive oils in Digest + Cleanse—ginger, fennel, and anise—have a long tradition of cleansing and improving digestive function. They are reported to soothe the bowel, improve elimination, and activate various digestive organs.
*Take one capsule 30-60 minutes before each Balance Complete shake to greatly increase the effectiveness and comfort of the 5-Day Nutritive Cleanse.

NingXia Red’s reputation as a powerful, natural antioxidant and nutrient dense infusion is unmatched. NingXia Red provides dynamic and sustainable energy, making it ideal for maintaining energy while cleansing. There are two distinct phases in the cleansing process. In phase one, toxins are broken down and made water soluble. Phase two removes these toxins from the body. NingXia Red provides essential nutrients that enhance both phases of detoxification.
NingXia Red is loaded with nutrients that nourish and support pancreatic and liver function. Like Balance Complete, NingXia Red contains constituents that may help maintain normal blood sugar levels. It is high in vitamins, minerals, amino acids, flavonoids, carotenoids, cerebrosides, pyrolles, and zeaxanthin. Easy to digest, delicious to the taste, and with a glycemic index of only eleven, NingXia Red is an ideal part of any cleansing program.

*Note: The 5 - Day Nutritive Cleanse is a starting place. More intense and targeted nutrients may be required for your particular situation.

TO ORDER THE 5 DAY NUTRITIVE CLEANSE CLICK HERE

Vegetarian lasagne recipe using essential oils

2009-08-06T09:06:00.003-04:00

Vegetarian Lasagna

2 Tbsp. olive oil
2 cloves garlic, chopped
1 red onion, chopped
½ to 1 drop oregano essential oil
½ to 1 drop basil essential oil
20 oz. fresh spinach
32 oz. marinara sauce
2 c. ricotta cheese
16 oz. mozzarella cheese
½ c. fresh parmesan cheese, grated
½ c. Italian parsley, chopped
1 egg
6–8 small zucchini
Salt and pepper

Preheat oven to 350° F. Sautee garlic and onions in 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pan over medium heat for 3–5 minutes. Add oregano and basil oil and stir. Next, add a small bunch of spinach and allow to slightly wilt. Repeat until all of the spinach has been added. Add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil during this process, if needed. Once the spinach is heated through, drain excess liquid and add the marinara sauce. Mix well and set aside. Combine ricotta, 8 ounces of grated mozzarella, and ¼ cup of parmesan cheeses with the Italian parsley and egg. Add salt and pepper, if desired. Set aside. Slice zucchini lengthwise about ¼-inch thick. Slice remaining mozzarella cheese and reserve. Spread a small layer of the spinach mixture in the bottom of a 10 x 13 size pan. Place one layer of zucchini on top of sauce and cover with spinach mixture. Spread cheese mixture over these layers and top with another layer of zucchini. Spread remaining spinach mixture and cover with tin foil. Place in oven and cook for about 30–40 minutes or until zucchini is fork tender. Remove tin foil and place remaining slices of mozzarella and ¼ cup of parmesan cheeses on top. Return to oven to allow cheese to melt. Let sit for 5–8 minutes and serve. Serves 6–8+.
TO ORDER OREGANO OIL & BASIL OIL CLICK HERE

History of Thieves

2009-08-05T20:48:00.003-04:00

Young Living’s Thieves essential oil blend was created based on the historical account of four thieves in France who protected themselves from the Black Plague with cloves, rosemary, and other aromatics while robbing victims of the killer disease. When captured, they were offered a lighter sentence in exchange for their secret recipe.

Young Living’s proprietary Thieves oil blend includes clove, cinnamon bark, rosemary, lemon, and Eucalyptus radiata and has been specially blended to offer the same kind of defense. Thieves has been university tested and found to be highly effective against airborne bacteria.

Utilizing the power and protection of Thieves essential oil blend, Young Living created an extensive line of plant-based household products. From toothpaste and mouthwash to cleaning products, hand soaps, and even throat lozenges, the Thieves product line provides safe, effective alternatives for use in the home.

The oil blend that comprises Thieves is known for enhancing complete health and total well-being. Each of the oils selected makes Thieves one of Young Living’s most effective and favorite products.

Clove oil, nature’s richest source of eugenol, is the highest-scoring single ingredient tested for its antioxidant capacity on the ORAC scale. Clove is also known for its immune-enhancing properties.*

With 68 percent d-limonene, Lemon oil is a powerful antioxidant known for its ability to act as a natural solvent and cleanser.

High in antioxidants, Cinnamon bark has a reputation for relieving discomfort during the winter season and supporting the digestive system.*

As one of the most versatile of the Eucalyptus oils, Eucalypytus radiata, has many health promoting properties. This powerful essential oil contains eucalyptol as one if its major elements, which in laboratory tests has been reported as being effective against bacteria in topical applications.

Rosemary oil is naturally energizing and may be beneficial for helping restore mental alertness when experiencing fatigue.

Thieves Essential Rewards Pack includes: (2) Thieves Household Cleaner (14.4 fl. oz.), Thieves essential oil blend (15 ml), Thieves Dentarome Ultra Toothpaste (4.1 oz.), Thieves Fresh Essence Plus Mouthwash (8 fl.oz.), (2) Thieves Spray (1 fl. oz.), (2) Thieves Foaming Hand Soap (8 fl.oz.), and (2) Thieves Waterless Hand Purifier (1 oz.)

TO ORDER CLICK HERE

Essential 7 oils

2009-08-04T12:58:00.005-04:00

When you are new to essential oils, you face a bewildering array of choices. Which oils should you start with? If you want to share the best single oils or blends with a friend or relative, how do you choose?
Thankfully, these difficult questions have been answered. Seven of the most body- supporting and emotion-balancing essential oils have been gathered into one “can’t live without it” kit, the Essential 7™.

TO ORDER ESSENTIAL 7 OILS, CLICK HERE

Everyday oils

2009-08-03T19:59:00.008-04:00

Make oils an essential part of your day, every day! It is always important to have Young Living’s therapeutic-grade essential oils on hand for your home and family. To help you get started, Young Living recommends nine of our most popular essential oils and essential oil blends for a wide range of uses and benefits:

~Frankincense
~Lavender
~Lemon
~Peppermint
~PanAway
~Peace & Calming
~Purification
~Thieves
~Valor

Try them in the following favorite everyday applications.

AIR PURIFICATION
Essential oils can help rid the air of unpleasant odors and unwanted bacteria. Diffuse a cleansing oil like lemon or Purification in your children’s bedrooms, or help control mold by diffusing Thieves. Oils like Thieves, Purification, Citrus Fresh, or peppermint can be used in a humidifier or dropped onto cotton balls and placed in home air vents.

AROMATHERAPY + FRAGRANCE
Keep a diffuser in every room of your home! Essential oils can be diffused for stress relief, respiratory discomfort, energy, mood balance, and emotional support. Try adding several drops of peppermint or PanAway to bath water to help ease muscle tension or calm the mind and body. Create your own bath and shower gel by adding a favorite essential oil like grapefruit to Young Living’s Bath & Shower Gel Base. When hosting a holiday party or a baby shower, add the pleasant smell of tangerine, lemongrass, or geranium to potpourri or an essential oil blend like Christmas Spirit to pinecones and cinnamon sticks for festive holiday ambiance and aroma. Wear Valor or White Angelica for confidence and a positive attitude.

CLEANING
A few drops of an essential oil like lemon, Thieves, or Purification can be added to a dishwasher, washing machine, spray bottle, or to Young Living’s Thieves Household Cleaner. This cleaner can be used on a variety of surfaces including tile, Formica, walls, linoleum, and even carpet.**

COOKING
Pure essential oils like rosemary, oregano, cinnamon, and spearmint can be used in place of herbs, spices, and flavoring agents in your everyday cooking. Use lemon oil to grill vegetables, add peppermint oil to hot tea, or use black pepper oil to spice up a favorite marinade or salsa.

FIRST AID
Drop PanAway oil blend on stressed muscles and massage or cover with a moist, hot towel. Rub Purification on exposed skin to avoid bug bites. Apply lavender oil to help soothe burned or stressed skin. Drop R.C. on the chest to ease respiratory discomfort. Add Roman chamomile to healing salves for minor bruises, cuts, and scrapes. Massage Di-Gize on the abdomen to help soothe minor stomach discomfort. Utilize 2–3 drops of Valerian in a capsule and swallow to aid with peaceful sleep.

PET CARE
Try rubbing Peace & Calming or lavender behind the ears of overactive pets. Use helichrysum and Roman chamomile to help soothe minor discomforts and wounds.

*Essential oils are highly concentrated and should be used with caution. Please refer to Young Living’s Essential Oils User’s Guide for more information about using essential oils safely.

**Before cleaning upholstery, fabric, or carpet, perform a spot test with Thieves Household Cleaner in an inconspicuous area. Discontinue use in the unlikely event of staining or skin irritation.

TO ORDER EVERYDAY OILS CLICK HERE

How to use essential oils

2009-08-02T19:43:00.009-04:00

How to use essential oils
AROMATHERAPY:
~Direct Inhalation: Directly inhale the oil from the bottle.
~Diffusion: Use Young Living’s Essential Oil Diffuser to disperse oil in a micro-fine vapor into the air.
~Humidifier: Fill a humidifier with water then place a tissue or cloth, sprinkled with a few drops of oil, in front of the escaping vapor.
~Steam: Place a few drops of oil in hot water, cover your head and the container with a towel, and breathe deeply and slowly.

TOPICAL APPLICATION:
~Direct: Essential oils can be applied directly to the crown of the head, to the temples, behind the ears, over vital organs, to the feet, and many other locations. Dilution may be required.
~Massage: Essential oils can be used before, during, and after therapeutic massage.
~Perfume: With natural, earthy, and exotic aromas, essentials oils can also be worn as perfume.

INTERNAL USE:
~Capsule: Add several drops of oil into an empty capsule and swallow with water.
~Water or Milk: Add 1–2 drops of oil to a glass of water or rice milk.
~Bread: Add 1–2 drops of oil on a piece of bread.
~Cooking: Use oils in place of herbs and spices in your everyday cooking.
~Blue Agave: Add 1–2 drops of essential oil into a teaspoon of Young Living’s Blue Agave sweetener.
~Direct: Drop directly onto the tongue and swallow.

TO ORDER YOUNG LIVING OILS CLICK HERE

What is Holistic Aromatherapy?

2009-08-01T15:51:00.001-04:00

Holistic Aromatherapy is a subtle, sensitive therapy with a powerful side, incorporating the use of 100% pure essential oils.

Holistic comes from the Greek word 'holos' meaning whole. This means that an holistic aromatherapy treatment works on the whole person, taking into account factors such as their lifestyle, diet, medical history, emotional and mental state, as well as their physical side.

It is the fastest stress release therapy there is and is an excellent way of treating minor ailments and negative emotional states as well as being extremely effective as a preventative treatment.

An aromatherapy treatment promotes detoxification of the body and with it encourages the natural regenerating and healing process. It is known to strengthen people against dis-ease, to increase stamina and can help with convalescence and recovery.

There are many methods of application, the most popular being therapeutic massage. An essential oil blend is mixed in a vegetable base oil such as grapeseed oil. Aromatherapy differs from just a 'scented massage' however. When a therapist uses 100% pure, good quality essential oils and carrier oil it is called a 'treatment'. This implies that the choice of oils has been determined on an individual basis, according to the physical and emotional needs of the client at the time of a visit.

Other methods of aromatherapy application include vaporization, inhalations, compresses, and aromatic baths.

More about essential oils:

Essential oils are the solid odorous part of aromatic plants. The odorous part of the plant is in fact a complex mixture of chemical compounds with an individual chemical signature and properties.

An essential oil's chemical structure can be identical to that of the plant it is obtained from but in many cases it can be quite different. Changes occur in the extraction process, often while being distilled as this involves heated water and in other instances chemical solvents.

The main methods of extraction are distillation, enfleurage, maceration, and volatile solvents.

Aromatic plants grow in great numbers but not all of them yield enough essential oils to make it a worthwhile extraction process. Some of them can have a very toxic effect and cannot be used for therapeutic purposes.

Holistic aromatherapy treatments, on a regular basis, can keep the body stress free and in harmony which is the first step to good health. Rather than turning to it when you are run-down and drained, it is better to incorporate massage and the use of essential oils into your regular routine, discouraging ill-health in the first place.

As Hypocrites, Father of medicine, said 'the way to good health is to have an aromatic bath and scented massage every day'.

Sessions

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I am a Holistic Health Practitioner (HHP), Certified Massage Therapist (CMT), Esthetician (skin care), Holistic Aromatherapist, and Birth Doula (labor and birth support). I am fully licensed. I trained under many wonderful and experienced teachers in San Diego, CA. I have many years of education, and over 10 years experience in helping people to live healthier and happier lives.
I currently reside in the Metro Detroit area, and have a few ways of conducting sessions.

I offer:
~Online Holistic Aromatherapy sessions
~Telephonic Holistic Aromatherapy sessions
~In home/Office treatments for:
*Skin care
*Massage
*Reflexology/VitaFlex
*Raindrop Technique
*Holistic Aromatherapy
*Herbal Spa treatments: wraps, scrubs, etc...

Please feel free to email me at LotusFlowerHerbals@gmail.com with any questions or to book a session.
~Namaste, Anne Hayman HHP

DISCLAIMER/PRIVACY NOTICE

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Disclaimer

The information contained on this website is provided by Lotus Flower Herbals as a free public service without express or implied warranties of any kind. By your use of this website, you expressly agree to all of the following terms and conditions:

(1) This website is for informational purposes only. This website is not intended as a diagnostic tool, professional medical advice regarding diagnosis or treatment, or a substitute for a professional medical diagnosis, opinion or suggested course of treatment by a qualified health care professional, nor is it to be relied upon with regard to diagnosis or treatment. We assume no responsibility for what you do with the information contained on this website.

Medical problems, particularly those of a serious nature, should be treated by a doctor in person. Please see your doctor for a professional diagnosis and treatment for any medical conditions you may have.

(2) No Claim of Accuracy or Completeness. Lotus Flower Herbals makes no promises or warranties regarding the accuracy or completeness of any information contained in this website and/or any pages accessible from this website, nor does Lotus Flower Herbals make any promise or warranty to maintain or update this information.

(3) No Warranties of Suitability for Use. Lotus Flower Herbals makes no express or implied warranties regarding the accuracy, currency, completeness or suitability for any purpose of any information contained on this website.

(4) Assumption of Risk of Use. Any person using this website assumes the risk of verifying any materials contained herein, as well as the risk of use and/or reliance on such information. Lotus Flower Herbals shall not be liable for any damages for viewing, distributing, copying and/or relying upon these materials, including any indirect, special, incidental or consequential damages, even if advised of the possibility of such damages.

(5) No Physician/Patient Relationship or Confidential Relationship. Use by any person of this website does not establish a Physician/Patient relationship or confidential relationship with Lotus Flower Herbals.

(6) No Expectation of Privacy. It is expressly understood that there is no reasonable expectation of privacy in your use of this website.

(7) Do not send private information to our webmaster.
If you need help with a medical condition, please contact your doctor or our office. Lotus Flower Herbals claims no responsibility for or ability to control the transmission of personal information via the Internet.

(8) Children's Online Privacy Protection Rule.
This website contains no forums, online chats or the like, and no email addresses with the exception of the webmaster email address, which is intended solely for reporting problems with the website to our webmaster. Therefore, no information regarding children is collected.

(9) Non-Confidentiality. It is expressly understood and agreed that there is no expectation of privacy or establishment of any confidential or Physician/Patient relationship in the submission of email to our website email address(es). To the extent that any such relationship can be deemed to exist, it is waived.

Lotus Flower Herbals reserves the right not to answer any questions submitted by email, for any reason or no reason whatsoever. Again, if you suspect you need medical treatment, please see a qualified health care professional.

(10) Links. This website may contain links to other sites. These are provided for your convenience. We have no control over the content of such linked sites, and we make no representations or warranties regarding them and assume no responsibility for their content, nor does inclusion of links to other websites constitute our endorsement of their content.

(11) Indemnification/Hold Harmless. You agree to indemnify, defend and hold harmless Lotus Flower Herbals and their officers, directors, employees, agents, information providers and supplies and website designers and maintainers from and against all losses, expenses, damages and costs, including reasonable attorneys fees, resulting from any violation of this agreement.

(12) Waiver, Release and Limitation of Liability. You agree that neither Lotus Flower Herbals, nor their officers, directors, agents, information providers or suppliers or website designers and website maintainers shall have any liability to you under any theory of liability or indemnity in connection with your use of this website. You hereby release and forever waive any and all claims you may have against Lotus Flower Herbals, their officers, directors, agents, information providers or suppliers or website designers and maintainers (including but not limited to claims based upon the negligence of Lotus Flower Herbals, their officers, directors, agents, information providers or suppliers or website designers and maintainers) for losses or damages you sustain in connection with your use of this website.

(13) Miscellaneous. This agreement shall be governed and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of Michigan, United States of America.

(14) No Liability for Website Designer. In the event that this website is designed, updated or maintained by a website designer or web design company, by your use of this website, you agree to hold said website designer(s) or web design company harmless for any responsibility or liability for the information contained on this website or your use thereof, or for any functionality, warranties or promises, or your use thereof, as may in any event be deemed to exist with regard to this website.

Privacy Policy

Effective Date: 07/30/09

Confidentiality. We understand that confidentiality of communications is of importance to those requesting information about our services. As a general business practice, we hold these communications in strict confidence.

(1) Email. We do not "harvest" email addresses from our website visitors; we do not spam (send unsolicited email to) our customers and website visitors.

(2) Your Personal Information. We do not sell our customers' and website visitors' email addresses or personal or business information to anyone for any reason whatsoever. If you provide personal and/or identifying information to us by email, telephone, letter, an online form on our website or other means, we use that information only to provide you with our services and/or products or to respond to your requests. Our online inquiry forms collect some or all of the following personally identifying information:

Name
Address, City, State, Zip Code
Phone number or email address (at least one is required)

None of the above personally-identifying information is stored on our website, and thus we provide no online process for individuals to review and request changes to any of their personally identifiable information collected through our website's online forms or sent by email to us.

Young Living Essential Oils. When you sign up as a member at a Young Living Essential Oils website for the purpose of purchasing products, Young Living collects your name, address, telephone number, email address, as well as credit card information for the purpose of initiating your Young Living membership, charging for the goods you purchase, and delivering those goods to you. That information is not sold to anyone.

(3) Credit Cards. Credit card and related personal information provided to us by our clients is strictly confidential and is used only for the purpose of collecting funds as designated by the client. However, in the event that fraudulent or stolen credit card information is presented to us, we will comply with all applicable laws, law enforcement agencies and concerned financial institutions as required.

(4) Web Hosting. Our web hosting company collects and stores only the following information about our website visitors: the numerical IP address or domain name from which they access the Internet; the date and time our site is accessed; the pages you visited and whether they successfully downloaded to your browser; and sometimes the Internet address of the website from which you may have accessed our website (such as AltaVista.com). We use this information only to understand how many visitors we get and how visitors use our website so that we can improve our website. We do not sell this information to anyone for any reason.

(6) Surveys. Responses to any website surveys or feedback forms which we may post from time to time on this website are provided to us by our visitors for our benefit, and are likewise not sold to any third party for any reason.

Surfing our website will not impart other personally-identifying information to us, unless you choose to provide such information to us.

(7) Notification of Changes to Privacy Policy. Most of the above Privacy Policy has been online, unchanged, since 2009. In the event that we make changes to or update this Privacy Policy; in that event, we will post them to this page of our website with the corresponding Effective Date.

If you have any privacy concerns, please contact us.