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Essential oils for Thyroid support

The thyroid, located in the front of the neck, is a small butterfly-shaped organ. It plays a mighty role in your health by producing hormones which travel throughout the body. These hormones regulate our hearts, digestion, muscle control, and equally important, brain development. As a result, you need your thyroid to be performing well to feel well. There are many essential oils for thyroid support, but first, a little more about why it’s so important ….

Thyroid hormones affect your metabolism rate, which means how fast or slow your brain, heart, muscles, liver, and other parts of your body work.

If your body works too fast or too slowly, you won’t feel well. For example, if you don’t have enough thyroid hormone, you might feel tired and cold. Or, if you have too much thyroid hormone, you might feel nervous, jumpy, and warm. source

The thyroid is controlled by the pituitary gland which oversees thyroid hormone production. Additionally, it tells the thyroid to make more or less according to what the body needs. The pituitary gland is even smaller, about the size of a pea, yet still vitally important to our health. In fact, we can use essential oils for thyroid and pituitary support to keep our body working at it’s best. The best essential oils for thyroid support are Lemongrass, Myrrh, Clove, Frankincense, Basil and Peppermint.

Essential oils for thyroid support

1.      Frankincense – Frankincense, also known as the “King of oils”, is a powerfully supportive oil for the body. Its complex chemistry, coupled with a high ratio of Monoterpenes (25%), make it a multi-purpose oil and a strong support on a cellular and DNA level. Furthermore, Frankincense is calming for the immune and nervous systems, skin and emotions. Combine with Lemongrass, Myrrh and Clove for a daily thyroid support blend (see recipe and  graphic below)

2.      Myrrh – Because Myrrh is very high in Sesquiterpenes (75%), it is a strong support for the thyroid. Sesquiterpenes also stimulate the limbic system, hypothalamus, pineal and pituitary glands. Combine with Clove, Lemongrass and Frankincense for a daily thyroid support blend (see recipe and graphic below)

3.      Clove – Clove is a powerful antioxidant and immune support for the body.  High in phenols which stimulate the immune and nervous system, they further help keep your cells performing well. Combine with Lemongrass, Myrrh and Frankincense for a daily thyroid support blend (see recipe and graphic below)

4.      Lemongrass – Lemongrass is high in aldehydes (up to 80%). This works to calm the nervous system, relieve stress and promote relaxation while also being uplifting. Combine with Clove, Myrrh and Frankincense for a daily thyroid support blend (see recipe and graphic below)

5.      Basil – Basil is actually known as a fabulous support for the adrenal system. When the thyroid is out of balance then the adrenals usually are too, and visa versa. So support for one is support for the other. Dilute Basil and apply over the adrenal glands (on both sides of the back, just under the rub cage) daily.

(Buy my custom Healthy Thyroid kit HERE )

What Role Do The Adrenal Glands Have With Proper Thyroid Function?
The adrenals are your “life saving” organs because they control your body’s hormones and help you survive in stressful situations. They act as control organs for your “fight or flight” response and secrete many of our most important hormones including: pregnenolone, adrenaline, estrogen, progesterone, testosterone, DHEA and cortisol.
When your adrenals are constantly stressed, this sets off an autoimmune, inflammatory response in your entire body. The adrenal-hypothalamus-pituitary feedback loop regulates the secretion of cortisol. All of your organs and your immunity are impacted negatively by the resulting constant assault of cortisol. Low adrenal function can actually cause someone’s thyroid problem to be much worse than it would be otherwise. source

6.      Peppermint – Peppermint gives us a natural energy boost. If you’re tired, it’s a wonderful pick-me-up during the day, especially in those late afternoon hours. Try it in a diffuser, put a drop in your hands to inhale or just smell from the bottle. It is also supportive to the thyroid.

Daily thyroid support essential oil blend recipes:

Essentail oils to apply daily over the thyroid (highly diluted for daily use) :

In a 10mL roller bottle combine….

3 drops Frankincense

3 drops Myrrh

2 drops Lemongrass

2 drop Clove

Top with Fractionated Coconut oil

Essential oils to apply daily on the bottom of the feet and/or thyroid reflexology points (less diluted for the feet):

In a 10mL roller bottle combine….

5 drops Lemongrass

8 drops Frankincense

5 drops Clove

8 drops Myrrh

5 drops Basil

Top with Fractionated Coconut oil

Energy boost thyroid support blend recipe:

Combine 4-6 drops of Wild Orange or Citrus Bliss with 2-3 drops of Peppermint in a water-based diffuser

OR put 1 drop of Wild Orange or Citrus Bliss and 1 drop of Peppermint directly in your palms. Rub together and inhale for a quick pick-me-up.

Essential oils for thyroid support or sore, achey muscles for the bath:

To unscented bubble bath or unscented liquid soap, add any combination of these for 5-10 drops total:

Frankincense
Myrrh
Lemongrass
Marjoram
1 cup of Epsom Salt

Essential oils are a great support for the thyroid. Even so, our diet and nutrition always plays a key role in our health as well. DoTERRA’s Lifelong Vitality pack includes vitamins, minerals and omegas that are equally important for thyroid, adrenal and hormonal health. The pack includes a multi-vitamin VMz, an omega blend xEO mega and a cellular support blend Alpha CRS+. The lifelong vitality pack offers these benefits:

Lifelong Vitality pack for Thyroid Support

Cellular Longevity/lifespan

Powerful DNA Protection

Cellular Energy/Metabolism

Network Antioxidant Defense

Cellular Inflammatory Response

Immune System Support

Stress Management

Cardiovascular Health

Bone and Joint Health

Brain/Cognitive Health

Digestive Health

The Lifelong Vitality pack also includes these key elements proven to support the thyroid:

·       Selenium – supports healthy hormone balance

·       Iodine – supports healthy thyroid function. Foods that contain Iodine include fish, seaweed, eggs, raw dairy and sea vegetables. Its also in doTERRA’s multi-vitamin VMz which is part of the Lifelong Vitality Pack (LLV).

·       B12 – beneficial for the central nervous system, cell health, natural energy

·       DHA, EPA Omega -3s fish or plant oils – critical for brain and thyroid function and immune support. Over 1000 mg are included in the xEO mega portion of the LLV pack.

These supplements make a profound difference for those that take them – including me! I can tell right away when I’ve forgotten to take mine. These supplements fill in the nutritional gaps and so you will have more energy and feel fantastic! They are a key part of my daily self care.

Diet, of course, plays a KEY role for all of our body systems. Do your research, but in general, avoid processed sugars, grains, unhealthy oils, etc. for optimal health.

Finally, don’t forget about SLEEP. Getting enough sleep, to bed by 10, also helps your adrenal glands stay on a healthy schedule. In fact, this greatly affects your other organs as well (like the thyroid) and keeps your ENERGY up! Click HERE to learn more about essential oils for sleep.

Here’s to healthy thyroids! I hope this helps you support your thyroid with essential oils. 

Buy your Thyroid Support custom kit HERE (you can add or take away from this shopping cart)

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doTERRA Essential Oils for
Newborns and Babies

Post updated on April 26, 2019 to reflect the latest information for Essential oils for babies

I absolutely adore babies – which is probably good since I had 5 of my own. I was actually very pregnant with my 5th when I discovered doTERRA essential oils and I enjoyed using them while pregnant and also through all her stages so far. Children are such precious blessings. Essential oils can be a huge help to you as a mother ~ you’ll be ready for anything! Here are the safest and most useful essential oils for newborns and babies …

It’s important to use nothing but the most pure and safe, therapeutic-grade essential oils because store-bought oils can have solvents, pesticides, synthetics and other chemicals. You cannot tell by looking at the label. Remember everything we put onto our skin also goes into our body. No oils are most thoroughly tested to be pure and safe than doTERRA. That is why we trust them for our family, because we know they are free of pesticides, fillers and contaminants.

Essential oils for newborns and babies should be used minimally and only as-needed for the first 3 months.

Always dilute Essential oils for Newborns and Babies

We ALWAYS dilute for little ones to avoid irritation or sensitization, to aid in absorption and also to expose the babies to a lower amount of the oils. While our pure oils are very safe, the liver can only process so much at a time, so there’s no reason to overdo or waste money by using them undiluted.

For newborns/infants/babies dilute 1 drop of essential oil per 1 tablespoon of carrier oil

What are the most gentle oils for babies?

• Roman Chamomile
• Lavender
• Serenity blend
• Melaleuca (Tea Tree oil)
• Frankincense
• Lemon
• Wild Orange
• Balance Blend

Single oils to save until they are older :  Cassia, Cinnamon, Oregano, Peppermint. These oils can all be irritating to the skin and/or irritating for new and tiny respiratory systems. These oils are less of an issue as part of a blend but typically can be substituted with a more gentle oil from the list above. Always use your own discretion, experience and resources in making these choices for your child.

Safety Tips

• Babies and children should never take oils internally. Save internal use until they are at least 6-10 years old.
• Keep oils out of the reach of children at all times.
  If your baby accidentally ingests oils, call poison control. We’ve had many little ones get into their mama’s oils accidentally and they’ve all been fine. It’s extremely rare for a child to drink enough to be truly harmful and I’ve never heard of it happening in my 5 years in doTERRA (doTERRA has over 3.5 million members in the US)
• Never put oils in or around baby’s nose. Use only gentle oils, well diluted, on the face when needed (see teething tips below)
  
  

Common Baby Issues and Solutions: 

1. Oils for Calming:

Dilute Lavender, roman chamomile or Serenity blend and apply the the feet and on your chest if you are holding them to promote relaxation. You can wipe extra on their blanket/clothes (we’ve found that our pure, quality oils and their Fractionated Coconut oil do not stain! yay!). Diffusing with a diffuser is also very helpful as well as daily infant massage.

You can read more about making essential oils part of baby’s routine to help them sleep HERE.

2. Essential oils for digestive support :

Dilute 1 drop each of Lavender and Wild Orange in 2 Tablespoons of carrier oil and rub baby’s tummy in a clockwise direction for at least 30 seconds for digestive support. Apply every 15-30 mins until their tummy is settled.

3. Booboo Love:

Frankincense promotes a healthy inflammatory response so its a great choice. Its my go-to oil when a child comes to me. Learning to roll, crawl and walk can be precarious sometimes!

4. Essential oils for baby Skin:

Dilute 1 drop of each of Lavender and Melaleuca in unrefined or fractionated coconut oil or Lanolin (I love lanolin for skin irritation and dry skin!) to soothe the skin. Apply each time you change their diaper. I like to use a glass spray bottle for this. Use damp, soft paper towels to wipe or rinse your wipes well before using to avoid any further irritating the skin with chemicals.

5. Essential oils for Teething:

Use diluted Lavender, Roman Chamomile, or Serenity blend along the jawline as often as every 15-30 minutes to soothe*.  For older babies Ive used diluted Clove (only doTERRA), 1 drop in 1 oz of Vegetable glycerin and applied to gums to numb without chemicals!

6. Essentail oils for Ears:

Dilute Lavender and Melaleuca and apply around the ear (never put oils IN the ear) frequently, massaging down towards the lymph nodes to encourage healthy drainage*. You can also use the diluted oils on a cotton ball placed in the ear – use a bandaid to help keep it in place. Please always supervise your baby when using a cotton ball and/or bandaid to make sure they do not get either into their mouths.

7. Essential oils for Respiratory support:

Dilute Melaleuca and Lemon and apply the chest, back and feet several times an hour. A combo of Frankincense and Lavender can be very helpful when the chest is tight and loud.

Here’s one of my favorite gentle respiratory support blends to diffuse for my little ones: 

Frequently asked questions about oils and Babies:

1. Is Eucalyptus oil safe for children?

   There’s a lot of outdated and irrelevant information circulating online and it can be scary for new moms. The good news is that properly diluted, and used appropriately,  doTERRA’s Eucalyptus is very safe!  (There are many different species of Eucalyptus so all info applies only to doTERRA’s)  HERE is a great article from doTERRA, written by a holistic practitioner and pediatrician. Please note, from the article, “The reports of serious adverse events associated with Eucalyptus oil in scientific literature have always involved excessively large (> 5mL/80 drops) amounts taken internally or placed directly into the nose. Of course, these excessive amounts are well beyond the normal usage range.”

   There’s always those extreme situations but let’s not “throw the baby out with the bathwater”, right? With normal use Eucalyptus is very safe. I still recommend the most gentle oils (see above) for tiny babies but as they get older Eucalyptus is an extremely useful oil to have in your mama arsenal.

2. Is Peppermint oil safe for children?

   See link in #1. Personally my body is more sensitive to Peppermint than others so I chose to wait until my daughter was over 2 to use it as a single oil. And honestly we just never needed it. There are so many other great oils that are less strong in aroma but still very powerful for the immune and digestive systems.  Peppermint is much more gentle as part of a blend (Breathe, Digestzen) and properly diluted so that is a great option if you’d like to use those for your little one. I recommend using Peppermint or blends containing Peppermint on the bottom of the feet for little ones and avoiding use near the face to avoid irritation.

3. Are essential oils safe to diffuse around babies?
   

   Use the same guidelines for diffusion as I’ve listed for topical applications. I recommend diffusing gentle oils like lavender, lemon and frankincense for tiny babies. They are just gentler for the respiratory system.

4. Can I put a diffuser in my baby’s room?
   

   Yes. Again, choose gentle oils. Make sure the room is wel-ventilated so the oils are not too potent in the room. If you walk in and it seems very strong to you then its probably more than you need for your little one.

Healthy Homemade Baby Wipes

What You Need:
1 roll premium paper towels*
2 cups warm water
2 tablespoons Fractionated Coconut Oil
3 drops Lavender essential oil
3 drops Melaleuca essential oil
An airtight storage container/empty wipe container/wet bag
* Use cloth for reusable wipes.

Directions:

Cut paper towel roll in half with a serrated or electric knife. Use half the roll now, and half later. Combine water, Fractionated Coconut Oil, and essential oils in a small bowl. Pour the mixture over the paper towels and then cover with the airtight lid letting the mixture absorb for 10 minutes. Turn the container over and let sit for another 10 minutes. Remove and discard the cardboard middle. Just pull the wipes from the center when you are ready to use. Store in container of your choice. Tip: For on-the-go wipes, insert 15-20 wipes into travel size wipe container. 

I can’t imagine taking care of our crew without our essential oils anymore. We love them! Choose a gentle oil for your little one and they will love it.

Want to get doTERRA essential oils into your home? I’d love to give you the support and education you need to use your oils safely and effectively! Get started HERE or email me if you have questions, concerns or need help getting set up.

I am a mom, not a doctor. This blog post is my opinion and no part of it is intended as medical advice. We advise that you always work with your child’s doctor to care for them. These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease

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Essential oils for Cats –
What is safe?

Cats have very different safety guidelines than other animals when it comes to essential oils. Cats do not process oils the same as dogs, horses, goats, etc. and so they require more caution, more dilution and many oils should be avoided completely. Keep reading to learn how to safely use essential oils for cats…

(Read about using oils on dogs HERE)

The basics about cats and essential oils
from Dr. Janet Roark, “The Essential Oil Vet“, a veterinarian on our team:

• Cats lack an enzyme called glucuronyl transferase. This is important for the Cytochrome p450 liver metabolism pathway. This makes cats very susceptible to ALL kinds of toxicity, including plant, NSAIDS (like aspirin, ibuprofen and Tylenol), chocolate and caffeine (methylxanthines), lead, zinc, and many, many types of pesticides.
• DoTERRA’s oils are tested by batch and are so pure that you can use them topically on cats sporadically in a highly diluted form (as if for infants). It’s not a good idea to use oils topically or internally on your cat every single day.
• Avoid oils high in phenols and eugenols for direct application (topical or internal) such as, Basil, Birch, Cinnamon, Clove, Fennel, Melaleuca, Oregano, Peppermint, Thyme, and Wintergreen as well as oils high in d-limonene which includes all Citrus oils.
• I diffuse everything! i just make sure not to diffuse anything in my kitty’s room (where her food is) and make sure she’s not “locked” in the room with the diffuser – she will go away if it’s one she doesn’t like the oils.
• The main thing is, don’t give oils to cats topically or internally *every* day (with some exceptions), dilute them, only use top-grade, thoroughly-tested oils like doTERRA and when in doubt, ask your vet
• Follow Dr Roark “The Essential Oil Vet”on Facebook  for more great tips

DoTERRA Essential oils to avoid for Cats (topically and internally):

• Basil
• Citrus oils: Lemon, Wild Orange, Tangerine, Mandarin, Citrus bliss blend, Grapefruit, Lime, Bergamot
• Cassia
• Cinnamon
• Clove
• Fennel
• Melaleuca/Tea Tree
• Oregano
• Peppermint
• Thyme
• Wintergreen

Essential oils safe to diffuse around cats …

• Any doTERRA oils are safe to diffuser around your cat. Just always make sure they can leave the room if they do not like them.

Essential oils safe to use topically on cats  …

Diffusion is preferred for cats. If used topically dilute 1 drop of essential oil per 100-200 drops of carrier oil.

• Lavender
• Frankincense
• Copaiba
• Cedarwood
• Helichrysum
• Rosemary
• Marjoram
• Myrrh
• Roman Chamomile
• Arborvitae

From Dr. Tisserand, essential oil safety expert:

I certainly don’t advocate dousing your cat in large quantities of neat essential oils – ever. And cats are quite susceptible to toxicity from nutmeg oil and tea tree oil. But, a small amount of any essential oil, and a moderate amount of most, will not harm your cat. _(source)

Can you use oils on cats for fleas? “We really don’t know what would be a toxic concentration to fleas, while being non-toxic to cats…”

As a general guideline, Tisserand believes that the occasional use of essential oils totaling no more than 1% of the product is generally safe for cats. 

In Summary…

• Always dilute heavily for cats – no more than 1% (1 drop per Tablespoon of carrier)
• Do not apply essential oils on your cat every day
• When diffusing make sure your cat is able to leave the room if its too much for them
• Not all oils are unsafe for cats, watch your cat carefully when using oils. Watch for strange behavior or lethargy.
• Essential oils are likely more safe for your cat to be around than artificial fragrances such as air fresheners

I hope this helps you to feel comfortable diffusing around your cats and using essential oils on them when needed!

_{*Please note: I am not a veternarian and nothing in this article is offered as medical advice. Use all essential oils at  your own risk. Do your research and make an informed decision for your pet. If you need personal oil help I recommend a consult with Dr Janet Roark, The Essential Oil Vet. Click here for more info}

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Description

Elevation is the perfect blend for those moments when you need to be revitalized. This exciting blend provides an invigorating combination of essential oils that can elevate your mood and increase your energy. Elevation combines the uplifting and euphoric floral scents of Lavandin, Lavender, Melissa, Ylang Ylang, and Osmanthus with Tangerine, Elemi, Hawaiian Sandalwood, and Lemon Myrtle to create a unique blend that promotes a positive mood and feelings of confidence.

Uses

Diffuse Elevation to promote feelings of self-worth while also helping to lessen feelings of stress.
Diffuse Elevation in the mornings before waking kids to create a positive and energized mood.
Rub Elevation essential oil over your heart, temples, or wrists to elevate mood and promote vitality.
After a long, stressful day, take a bath with a few drops of Elevation to help lessen feelings of stress.
Directions for Use
Diffusion: Use three to four drops in the diffuser of your choice.
Topical use: Apply one to two drops to desired area. Dilute with doTERRA Fractionated Coconut Oil to minimize any skin sensitivity.

Cautions

Possible skin sensitivity. Keep out of reach of children. If you are pregnant, nursing, or under a doctor’s care, consult your physician. Avoid contact with eyes, inner ears, and sensitive areas. Avoid sunlight or UV rays for up to 12 hours after applying product.

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Description

Zendocrine essential oil blend supports the body’s natural ability to rid itself of unwanted substances.* It supports the healthy cleansing and filtering functions of the liver, kidneys, colon, lungs, and skin.* This powerful blend combines Rosemary, Cilantro, and Juniper Berry, known for their detoxifying properties and ability to support healthy liver function, while Tangerine and Geranium have purifying effects against unhealthy substances.* Zendocrine helps cleanse the body of toxins and free radicals that can slow the body’s systems down, leaving a heavy, weighted feeling.*

Uses

Add 1–2 drops to citrus drinks, teas, or water to support healthy liver function.*
Take one drop daily for one week as part of an internal cleansing regimen or to kick-start a New Year’s Resolution.*
Directions for Use
Diffusion: Use three to four drops in the diffuser of your choice.
Internal use: Dilute one drop in 4 fl. oz. of liquid.
Topical use: Apply one to two drops to desired area. Dilute with doTERRA Fractionated Coconut Oil to minimize any skin sensitivity.

Cautions

Possible skin sensitivity. Keep out of reach of children. If you are pregnant, nursing, or under a doctor’s care, consult your physician. Avoid contact with eyes, inner ears, and sensitive areas.

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

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Description

Among these are essential oils which provide a vapor barrier for plants, protecting them from potential threats in their environment. TerraShield Outdoor Blend contains powerful essential oils and other plant oils known to provide outdoor protection in a natural, safe way. This newly updated formula contains a select blend of essential oils including Ylang Ylang, Cedarwood, Catnip, Lemon Eucalyptus, Litsea, Arborvitae, Nootka, and Vanilla Bean Absolute—all of which possess specific chemical compounds known to protect against environmental annoyances. The addition of Tamanu oil provides added support and through doTERRA’s Co-Impact Sourcing®, the harvesting of Tamanu oil is positively affecting the livelihood of harvesters in Madagascar. Now available in both a 15mL bottle and new 30mL sprayer, TerraShield Outdoor Blend is a powerful yet safe formula that can be used by every member of the family, outdoors and throughout the home.

Uses

Apply TerraShield to the legs, arms, and neck before going outdoors or diffuse on your patio.
Take TerraShield on camping trips or to outdoor events.
Spray TerraShield around your door, window seals, and tent.
Directions for Use
Diffusion: Use three to four drops in the diffuser of your choice.
Topical use: Apply to desired areas before outdoor activity. Reapply every few hours as needed.

Cautions

Possible skin sensitivity. Keep out of reach of children. If you are pregnant, nursing, or under a doctor’s care, consult your physician. Avoid contact with eyes, inner ears, and sensitive areas.

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