Recipes with Essential Oils

Pumpkin Preserver Spray + Thieves Pumpkin Seeds

Sun, 25 Oct 2020 16:05:58 GMT

One of my favorite fall pastimes is carving pumpkins into grinning jack-o-lanterns and roasting the seeds. Scooping out the oozy, gooey insides of a pumpkin is a fall right of passage. Once you’ve carved a pumpkin, you only get to enjoy its toothy grin for a few days. It’s a lot of work to carve a pumpkin, so make it last longer with this Essential Oil Pumpkin Preserver Spray.

Follow along as I discuss How to Preserve a Pumpkin with Essential Oils, plus a yummy recipe for Roasted Pumpkin Seeds with Thieves Vitality.

How to Make a Pumpkin Last Longer

Be sure to remove all the seeds and pumpkin guts and fully scrape down the sides so the surface is clean. A large metal spoon works great for this
Refrigerate your pumpkin at night to rehydrate. An ice bath in the sink also works if you don’t have room in your fridge
Avoid using real candles since prolonged heat can start to bake the pumpkin. Try LED candles or glowsticks instead
Spray it down with a DIY pumpkin preserver daily to prevent mold and mildew, and extend the life of your pumpkin

Essential Oil Pumpkin Preserver Spray

Spraying the inside of a carved pumpkin with essential oils can help extend its life and keep it from rotting prematurely. Enjoy your jack-o-lantern longer, even after Halloween.

Ingredients

15 drops Thieves Essential Oil (where to buy)
15 drops Peppermint Essential Oil (where to buy)
2 oz witch hazel
2 oz distilled water

Directions

Mix all ingredients in a 4 oz spray bottle. Shake gently to combine. Generously spray the inside and outside of the pumpkin. Repeat daily until pumpkin begins to mold and soften. Then discard.

Roasted Pumpkin Seeds

If you plan on carving a pumpkin this fall, don’t forget to save the seeds to roast! You can add Vitality essential oils to roasted pumpkin seeds to intensify the flavor and add a festive spin. This recipe uses Thieves Vitality for a touch of spice, and honey to add sweetness.

Whip this recipe up for a healthy snack you’ll want to eat all season long!

Thieves Pumpkin Seeds

Ingredients

2-3 cups raw pumpkin seeds, cleaned
2 drops Thieves Vitality (where to buy)
3 teaspoons cooking oil (avocado or coconut)
1 teaspoon honey or agave
1 teaspoon cinnamon
2 teaspoons Himalayan sea salt

Directions

Preheat oven to 300 degrees
Mix all ingredients in a medium-sized bowl
Fully coat the seeds with the spice & oil mixture
Spread evenly in a single layer on a baking sheet
Bake for 40 minutes until golden brown
Add additional salt to taste

More essential oil recipes you might enjoy:

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Diffuser Blends for Halloween

Fri, 23 Oct 2020 19:54:57 GMT

There’s nothing spookier than toxic chemicals! The ingredients in a scented candle can be quite frightening. Diffusing essential oils is a much safer way to enjoy the smells of the season. Keep the spirits away on all-hallows-eve with one of these Diffuser Blends for Halloween.

Mixing your own Halloween essential oils blends almost feels like you are whipping up a magical concoction. Every day can feel like Halloween!

I love Halloween so much it’s scary! We usually celebrate by carving pumpkins, decorating, and drinking apple cider. My kids are still little, so we keep it pretty mild. Trick or treating in the crisp fall air is a must, followed by a few pieces of a favorite candy. Halloween will always be one of my favorite holidays!

Certain smells can bring back memories and positive feelings. The smell of cinnamon, apples, hay, and pumpkins remind us of fall. These smells might bring on feelings of happiness. Inhaling essential oils can activate fond memories of enjoyable situations.

We diffuse essential oils for many reasons. They can help set a mood and contribute to a peaceful atmosphere. Although a candle is great for adding fragrance to the air, it is not the healthiest choice. Firing up a diffuser blend can feel like the equivalent of lighting a candle. If you are missing candles this fall, try one of these Diffuser Blends Inspired by Candle Scents.

Best Essential Oils for Halloween

The essential oils used in these recipes were inspired by the woodsy trees in a dark forest, the rich earthy smells of a corn maze, and the spicy aroma of a freshly brewed potion.

Patchouli
Frankincense
Black Pepper
Rosemary
Cedarwood
Ginger
Nutmeg
Cinnamon Bark
Thieves
Orange
Copaiba
Grapefruit
Sage
Tangerine
Stress Away
Northern Lights Black Spruce

These Halloween diffuser blends will take you back to a fun-filled night packed with mystery and excitement!

Hocus Pocus

2 drops Pine
2 drops Patchouli
2 drops Lavender
1 drop Frankincense

Pumpkin King

3 drops Copaiba
3 drops Orange
1 drop Cinnamon Bark

Graveyard

3 drops Northern Lights Black Spruce
3 drops Cedarwood

Frankenfruit

3 drops Grapefruit
3 drops Frankincense
1 drop Black Pepper

Spooky Cider

1 drop Ginger
2 drops Cinnamon Bark
3 drops Lemon

R.I.P

3 drops Rosemary
2 drops Idaho Blue Spruce
2 drops Peppermint

Harvest Moon

3 drops Orange
2 drops Sage
2 drops Patchouli

Candy Corn

2 drops Tangerine
3 drops Stress Away
2 drops Orange

More Ways to Enjoy Halloween Scents:

Add a few drops of your favorite essential oil to a festive felt pumpkin or pad. Place around your house as decoration
Hollow out a miniature pumpkin and fill with Epsom salts. Add 2 drops Cinnamon Bark, 2 drops Nutmeg, and 2 drops Orange essential oils. Use in the bathroom, kitchen, or laundry room for a portable burst of fall freshness
Make a spooktacular room spray with any of the recipes above. Fill a 4oz spray bottle with equal parts of distilled water and witch hazel. Add the essential oils of your choice

You might also enjoy these diffuser recipes:

Be sure you are effectively using your essential oil diffusers by checking out our free Comprehensive Diffuser Guide here!

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8 Diffuser Blends Inspired by Candle Scents

Sat, 26 Sep 2020 21:09:13 GMT

Candles are great for setting a mood and adding a fragrance to your home. Some of the best smells of the holidays can be found packaged in a candle. If you want to enjoy fragrances in your home, but don’t want to sacrifice your health, diffuse essential oils instead! Here are 8 Diffuser Blends Inspired by Candle Scents.

What is Essential Oil Diffusing?

Ultrasonic diffusers distribute the tiniest components of essential oil into the air through super-fast vibrations. Essential oil diffusing allows you to enjoy the aromatic benefits of essential oils in a safe and beneficial method for your entire family. This comprehensive diffuser guide is a great place to start learning more about diffusing oils!

Dangers of Candles

Most candles are made with paraffin wax. Paraffin is a by-product of petroleum or coal. It’s a cheap alternative to soy and beeswax. Burning candles made with paraffin wax and synthetic fragrances releases volatile organic compounds (VOCs) such as formaldehyde into the air.

The long term health risks associated with breathing in VOCs include asthma, allergies, and cancer. Candles made with artificial fragrances emit harmful chemicals into the air, ultimately contributing to poor indoor air quality.

Candle companies are not required to disclose the ingredients list in their products. Although they are banned from using lead wicks, it is unknown how many hazardous ingredients a candle may contain.

There is also a fire risk when using candles. Over 15,000 house fires are the direct result of burning candles each year. Most of these fires occur in December when people are more likely to be burning holiday scented candles. Candles come with risks.

Diffusing vs. Candles

Diffusers and candles are both used to disperse fragrance into the air. Candles made from paraffin wax release compounds such as acetone, benzene, and toluene. Pure essential oils, made without fillers, will add fragrance to the air without adding toxins.

Sure, there are quality candles out there that are made using safe ingredients like beeswax or soy wax and essential oils, but at a high cost. A homemade candle is an economical and safe option. You can easily recreate your favorites with these diffuser blends inspired by candle scents.

The cost of diffusing essential oils is considerably less than buying a candle. The average cost of a pumpkin scented candle is about $28 and gives you 70 hours of burn time.

Cost Comparison

5 drops Thieves = $0.70

5 drops Orange = $0.22

70 hours diffusing = $10.73

If you are missing the soft glow of a candle, most diffusers offer relaxing light settings and soothing sounds, giving you the full aromatherapy experience.

Skip the candles this year and reach for a diffuser blend to replace your favorite candle scents!

8 Diffuser Blends Inspired by Candle Scents

There is nothing better than the smell of an apple pie baking in the oven. This blend uses cinnamon, clove, and a hint of citrus to recreate the delightful smell of pie.

Apple Pie

2 drops Cinnamon
3 drops Lemon
1 drop Clove

This spicy diffuser blend will remind you of all the things you love about fall. It is cozy and comforting and will bring on nostalgic memories of hayrides and pumpkin patches.

Pumpkin Spice

3 drops Orange
2 drops Cinnamon Bark
2 drops Thieves
1 drop Clove

The sweet scent of fresh-baked cookies can be found in this blend. Stress Away adds a hint of vanilla to air while the cinnamon and nutmeg give it a touch of spice.

Oven Fresh Cookie

3 drops Stress Away
2 drops Cinnamon
1 drop Nutmeg

The intoxicating scent of Ylang Ylang will take you away to a tropical island paradise. Take a walk through a rainforest with the striking blend of orange, Ylang Ylang, and ginger.

Tropical Island

3 drops Orange
2 drops Ginger
3 drops Ylang Ylang

The majestic trees in the forest are both comforting and restorative. Cedarwood adds richness to this blend, while the cypress and pine usher in the enjoyable scent of evergreen trees.

Evergreen Forest

3 drops Cypress
2 drops Pine
2 drops Cedarwood

This blend brings on the comforting scents of burning wood and leather. Vetiver and spruce are rich, woodsy, and masculine, while the black pepper gives it a touch of smoke.

Fireside Chat

3 drops Vetiver
3 drops Northern Lights Black Spruce
1 drop Black Pepper

Bring the vibrant scents of summer into your home with this citrusy diffuser blend. Lemon Verbena is the best part of this blend, giving it a rich and cheery finish.

Lemonade Stand

3 drops Lemon
3 drops Lime
2 drops Lemon Verbena

Fresh cut flowers are wonderful in the spring, but you can enjoy them year-round with this blissful floral blend. The exotic combination of jasmine and Ylang Ylang is complemented by the light floral scent of lavender.

Blissful Bouquet

3 drops Lavender
2 drops Jasmine
3 drops Ylang Ylang

Be sure you are effectively using your essential oil diffusers by checking out our free Comprehensive Diffuser Guide here!

You might also enjoy these diffuser recipes:

The post 8 Diffuser Blends Inspired by Candle Scents appeared first on Recipes with Essential Oils.

All About Lemon Verbena

Sat, 12 Sep 2020 23:58:41 GMT

Meet your new favorite essential oil…Lemon Verbena. Brand new to Young Living’s lineup, this essential oil can be used all over your home. Add it to your household cleaning routine, your beauty regimen, or use lemon verbena to freshen the air in your space. The scent of lemon verbena essential oil will stimulate your senses and brighten your day.

Use this zesty essential oil for home fragrance, cleansing the skin, or as a burst of midday freshness with its lively, citrusy aroma.

Lemon Verbena

Botanical Family

Verbenaceae

Common Names

Lemon beebrush
Vervain

Historical Uses

Lemon verbena has South American origins. Its leaves were traditionally used to make a cleansing tea. It was brought to Europe in the 17th century by the Spanish and Portuguese. The oil was then cultivated for use in the perfume industry. Verbena leaves are frequently used to add a lemon flavor to food and drinks.

Fun Facts

Despite its name, lemon verbena is not a citrus oil
In Little House on the Prairie, Laura’s teacher, Miss Beadle, wore lemon verbena oil as her signature scent
The long green leaves of the verbena plant emit a strong lemony scent, repelling certain insects and pests
Ancient Greeks placed dried lemon verbena leaves under their pillows to promote pleasant dreams

Aroma and Tips for Blending

Lemon verbena essential oil is steamed distilled from the long green leaves of the verbena plant
It has an intense, lemony scent with grassy and floral top notes
This essential oil blends well with peppermint, spearmint, lemon, neroli, and palmarosa for a unique fragrance

How to Use Lemon Verbena Essential Oil

Lemon verbena essential oil can be used for topical and aromatic applications. It should not be taken internally. It is gentle and safe for most users
Apply lemon verbena with a carrier oil for a more long-lasting effect on the skin
Add 1-2 drops to the abdomen to aid in digestion
Lemon verbena is a great choice for a custom energizing perfume spray
Use this essential oil in a diffuser for a cleansing, elevating aroma in your home
Make a DIY foaming hand soap or dish soap using lemon verbena to add a burst of fragrance
Incorporate this oil into your favorite facial moisturizer for a cleansing effect
Mix with witch hazel and distilled water to create an uplifting room spray
Adds a lemony cleaning boost to your favorite household cleaning spray

Benefits of Lemon Verbena Essential Oil

Lemon verbena contains high amounts of the constituent citral, which is also found in lemongrass
It contains antioxidants, making it great for the skin
Lemon verbena can be used to calm an anxious mind
Helps promote healthy rest and sleep

Diffuser Recipes Featuring Lemon Verbena

2 drops Lemon Verbena
2 drops Lemon
2 drops Peppermint

3 drops Lemon Verbena
2 drops Ylang Ylang
2 drops Palmarosa

3 drops Lemon Verbena
2 drops Lavender
2 drops Bergamot

3 drops Lemon Verbena
2 drops Spearmint
2 drops Lemon
1 drop Eucalyptus Globulous

2 drops Lemon Verbena
2 drops Stress Away
2 drops Lime

Click the banner above to see all of the featured oils in our Getting to Know Essential Oils series!

*Disclaimer: The statements made on this site have not been evaluated by the FDA. This information is intended for educational purposes only. It is not intended to substitute for medical care or to prescribe treatment for any specific health condition.

The post All About Lemon Verbena appeared first on Recipes with Essential Oils.

Essential Oil Mask Spray

Sat, 22 Aug 2020 20:17:03 GMT

Did you know you can add essential oils directly to a fabric mask? Fabric face masks can get uncomfortable when worn for long periods. Essential oils can help make wearing a mask more enjoyable. Use this Essential Oil Mask Spray to freshen your face mask and add a pleasant, uplifting aroma.

Six months into a Pandemic, masks are becoming more and more mainstream. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, wearing a face mask has been shown to reduce the spread of COVID-19 by blocking respiratory droplets.

Masks are often required in public spaces where social distancing is not possible. It seems like every major retailer is selling them. Many employers are also requiring them as a condition of employment. At this point, they are hard to avoid.

Adding essential oils to a mask can make wearing one more tolerable, and will help keep your mask smelling amazing in between washes!

Influencing Emotions with Essential Oils

Essential oils inhaled through the nose can affect emotions, mood, motivation, and focus. The sense of smell is called olfaction and is executed by the olfactory system of your body. The olfactory receptors are stimulated by an aroma such as an essential oil.

Adding oils to a mask will help get the molecules directly into your olfactory system, which will communicate with the ‘feelings’ area of the brain. In other words, essential oils make us happy! Read more about essential oils and emotions here.

Best Essential Oils to Add to a Fabric Mask

You can add almost any essential oil to this mask spray. You’ll want to choose oils that you enjoy inhaling and approved for aromatic use. Here are some essential oils to try:

Lavender
Lemon
Rosemary
Purification
Peppermint
Orange
Stress Away
Bergamot
Citrus Fresh
Bergamot
Tea Tree
Eucalyptus
Joy
Frankincense

Mask Spray Ingredients

Witch Hazel – helps disperse the essential oils and prolong the scent. It is also great for soothing skin that may be irritated by a mask
Distilled Water – extends the shelf life in a recipe since it does not contain containments
Essential Oils – choose essential oils that are uplifting and bright. Floral and citrus oils are great for lifting moods and promoting a positive outlook

Try this Energizing Mask Spray recipe to freshen your mask, and give you a boost of energy throughout the day!

Energizing Mask Spray Recipe

Ingredients

1 oz witch hazel
1 oz distilled water
5 drops Tangerine
5 drops Bergamot
3 drops Peppermint
spray bottle

Directions

Mix all ingredients in a spray bottle. Swirl to combine
Lightly add 2-3 sprays to your favorite mask. Do not apply while the mask is on your face. Allow mask to dry completely before use
Repeat as the scent begins to weaken. Wash or replace mask daily

*This recipe is not meant to sterilize or sanitize a reusable mask. It is a mask freshening spray meant to add fragrance.

More essential oil mask spray combinations to try:

Keep Your Head Up

5 drops Lavender
5 drops Tea Tree

Just Keep Swimming

3 drops Orange
3 drops Lemon
2 drops Rosemary

Happy All The Time

5 drops Joy
5 drops Grapefruit

Heal Your Heart

4 drops Lavender
3 drops Orange
2 drops Ylang Ylang

Healthy Mask Options

Most masks are made from cheap fabrics that have been treated with bleach and chemicals. The worst offenders are perhaps the blue disposable surgical masks. Thes types of masks are manufactured from non-woven material made from plastics like polypropylene.

Say no to inhaling harmful chemicals! The healthiest options for masks are constructed from organic cotton or hemp. Reusable masks are better for you and better for the earth.

I am loving this organic cotton mask from Mary Ruth’s Organics. Made from 3 layers of unbleached, organic cotton, this mask is still thin enough for prolonged use. The fabric is soft and comfortable. It only comes in one neutral color, but the benefits outweigh the lack of flair.

Hemp masks are sustainable and often made of recycled materials. These face masks are thicker than the cotton ones, which means they will hold their shape and last longer. Hemp is also surprisingly breathable.

Mask Care Tips

Wash it every day – If you are using a reusable fabric mask, be sure you are washing it in hot water every use. Use a gentle detergent and let it dry in the sun
Use a filter – a charcoal or carbon filter can help reduce contaminants and dirt from the air
Freshen your breath – use mouthwash to help prevent bad breath that can stink up your mask
Don’t get ‘mascne’ – wearing a mask can irritate skin which may lead to acne. Be sure to thoroughly clean your skin after wearing a mask with a face wash and follow up with a toner. If acne persists, try a blemish gel at night

More essential oil recipes you might enjoy:

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All About Copaiba Essential Oil

Sun, 09 Aug 2020 01:15:26 GMT

Copaiba essential oil is highly sought after for its pain-relieving benefits. It contains the highest levels of the terpene beta-caryophyllene, which is a cannabinoid. Copaiba is often compared to CBD oil for having similar anti-inflammatory properties. It can be used daily to support overall wellness, elevate mood, and to promote radiant skin.

Copaiba is considered an intensifier that may boost the effects of other essential oils when blended. The pronunciation of Copaiba is highly controversial. It has been pronounced koh-pa-ee-ba and also koh-pie-ba. Whichever way you say it, you’ll want to have this essential oil in your arsenal.

Copaiba Essential Oil

Copaifera reticulata

Botanical Family

Fabaceae

Common Names

Copal
Copaipera
Balsam Copaiba

Historical Uses

Copaiba was first harvested in southern Brazil as far back as the 16th century. Native Brazilian healers used copaiba topically and orally to relieve minor pain and skin infections. It was also used as an insect repellent in other parts of the Amazon. Today, over 500 tons of copaiba come out of Amazon rainforests each year.

Fun Facts

Copaiba is harvested by tapping in the same way maple syrup is extracted from a tree
The Copaiba tree can grow up to 100 feet tall and live up to 400 years. It produces tiny white flowers and nuts, which are not used in the distillation of the essential oil
Copaiba is FDA-approved as a food additive in conjunction with other flavors

Extraction Method

Copaiba comes from the bark of the Brazilian Copaifera tree. The balsam (or sap) is steam distilled to create copaiba essential oil

Aroma and Tips for Blending

Copaiba has a mild, pleasant scent that is not overwhelming or harsh
Its aroma is sweet, woodsy and earthy
It blends well with lavender, lemon, orange, cedarwood, and clary sage

Top Uses for Copaiba Essential Oil

Copaiba essential oil can be used for topical and aromatic applications
Copaiba Vitality is approved for internal use. Add 1-2 drops to your favorite beverage or take in a vegetable capsule
This essential oil is gentle and safe for most users. Consult a physician if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or taking medication
Apply copaiba directly to the skin, or with a carrier oil if you prefer
Mix with coconut oil and apply to sensitive gums and teeth
Add to your favorite moisturizer to improve the appearance of skin
Diffuse copaiba to create a calming and relaxing environment
Add a few drops to an Epsom salt bath to enjoy a relaxing soak
Rub copaiba directly onto sore muscles and joints to support healthy inflammation

Recipes Featuring Copaiba

If you like to stay active, sometimes that leads to overworked and tired muscles. This Muscle Rub cream is amazing for soothing everyday aches and pains
Make a special man in your life an all-natural Homemade Men’s Body Wash. Try a woodsy and earthy blend with copaiba and cypress essential oils
Calm the mind with this Lavender Diffuser blend featuring Copaiba. This combination is perfect when you need a moment alone, or a second to regroup
A moment in the great outdoors can help melt away the stress from the day. This Peaceful and Relaxing Forest Diffuser Blend is great for promoting a sense of calm and peace
Copaiba makes it onto our list of the Best Essential Oils for Fitness. It amplifies the effects of other topical oils, boosting the effectiveness of all their uses after an intense workout

Find all of our recipes using Copaiba essential oil by clicking here.

Click the banner above to see all of the featured oils in our Getting to Know Essential Oils series!

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How to Organize & Store Essential Oils

Sat, 18 Jul 2020 13:37:43 GMT

As your essential oil collection grow, so does the need for organization. In order to benefit from essential oils, you need to use them and use them often. If your oils have a designated and accessible home, you are much more likely to make them a part of your daily routine. Follow along as I discuss how to organize and store essential oils.

How to Organize Essential Oils

Keeping essential oils organized is one way to maximize the benefits and minimize the risks. If you’ve ever accidentally picked up a hot oil by mistake, you’ll understand why this is important (think Thieves and Tea Tree. Ouch!).

Young Living packages all their oil bottles with uniquely colored labels. Some color combinations are obvious, like with citrus oils for example. Orange has an orange label, Lemon has a yellow label, and so on.

Some oils have labels that are very similar in color, making it easy to mistake an oil if it is not properly marked. Lavender has a beautiful purple label. But so does Harmony and also Release. Tea Tree has a label very similar in color to Thieves. Rosemary and Peppermint look nearly identical. This is particularly important if you are applying oils topically, but it can affect diffusing too.

Labeling Essential Oil Bottles

Having a label on the lid of your essential oil bottles is one to avoid mistaken identity. Undiluted hot oils can cause skin irritation and even burning. There are several options for lid labels that will help you clearly identify an oil.

My favorite labels are from Young Living. They have a label for every single oil that Young living produces. This makes it helpful for some of their unique blends. The labels are also correlated to the color of the bottle. You can also find some wonderful options on Amazon and also Etsy. I actually find labeling my oil bottles very relaxing and satisfying. Get the kids involved and make it an activity!

Ways to Organize Oil Bottles

How you arrange your essential oil bottles is really a personal preference. Here a few ideas to help you get your collection organized:

By Color: If you have a small collection this works well. Plus, the oil bottles look so pretty in a rainbow pattern! This is not my favorite method since it can be easy to forget the actual color of a bottle. I once spent 20 minutes looking for basil before I realized it was blue, not green.
By Group: You might dedicate a section strictly for citrus oils, another for tree oils, or emotional support oils. I do this for my vitality oils, especially in the kitchen. I also have a section for oils that I diffuse daily, that way they are close at hand.
Alphabetically: This is a great method for organizing a large number of oils, and when you have duplicates. You will always be able to find the oil you are looking for, without having to look too hard. I like this method for oils displayed in drawers at a 45-degree angle.
By Use: If you would prefer, you can also organize oils by how you use them. You might dedicate a section of your storage for oils to promote a healthy respiratory system or oils that support energy levels. If you have an educational app that you use or a book, look for oils that have similar properties and group them together.

Essential Oil Storage Ideas

One of the best easy to use more oils is if they are easily accessible and in plain sight. If your oils are stored away in a hard-to-reach cabinet, you are much less likely to use them.

Here are some clever (and attractive) ways to store your essential oils in your home:

Diffuser Storage – I love having a selection of oils right next to my diffuser. This 2-tiered shelf is perfect! You can store your diffuser on top and all your favorite oils down below. Keep this area for oils you diffuse on a daily and weekly basis.
Wall Storage – A wall shelf works great in a bathroom or bedroom with limited space. A shelf will hold a decent amount of bottles, and you can organize them in any fashion.
Drawer Storage – If you have extra drawers in your home, use it for extra essential oil space. I try to store some of the oils I don’t use frequently. These oil holders are specially designed for drawers and they showcase the label perfectly.
Decorative Countertop Storage – An essential oil rack can be both a home accent piece and also a useful storage unit. I have found some great options at local home stores that work for storing oil bottles. A simple makeup organizer will do the trick.
Storage Blocks – A storage block works great to display or highlight just a few of your favorite oils. It also makes for a great conversation piece of you have visitors!
Boxes and Bags – If you are traveling or storing extra oils, a box or a bag works great.

Want more ideas for essential oil storage? Check out my favorites here.

How to Safely Store Essential Oils

It’s important to use and store essential oils safely. Here are some important tips on how to properly store oil bottles:

Storing Essential Oils

Always store essential oils in dark glass containers in a cool location. Some essential oils will degrade in heat or direct sunlight.
If you are storing essential oils in the kitchen to use in food recipes, then be sure to store away from the heat of the stove or oven.
Make sure that the bottle lids are on tightly. Loose lids can allow essential oils to evaporate. This would diminish their benefits and aroma.
Keep essential oils out of the reach of any children. Treat them just as you would any other potent substances in your home. These are concentrated essences and could be extremely dangerous for children.
Essential oils have a longer shelf life than any dried herb, seed, or flower. Essential oils, when stored properly, will maintain their intense flavor and aroma for years. This is why I LOVE using essential oils in cooking recipes!

4 Summer Mocktail Recipes

Sat, 27 Jun 2020 13:48:25 GMT

These Summer Mocktails made with Vitality essential oils are so refreshing and invigorating. The essential oils add just the right amount of flavor, without overpowering the drink. Sip on one of these mocktail recipes poolside, on the beach, or anywhere the summer sun takes you. They are perfect for summer soirees with friends!

I love making yummy drinks (cocktails and mocktails)! Long story short, I put myself through college working as a bartender in an oceanfront restaurant. It became a fun way to make extra money, even after I had a ‘real’ job.

Not to brag or anything, but I was voted one of the top female bartenders in my hometown. Yes, that really happened! Anyways, these days my drinks lean more to the mocktail side of things, and I love to incorporate my Vitality essential oils into my recipes.

Vitality Essential Oils in Food and Beverages

The Vitality line of essential oils by Young Living is specifically labeled as a dietary supplement and safe for culinary use. Since its release in 2016, the Vitality line has transformed the way I cook and bake.

There are 4 categories in the Vitality line including Herb, Spice, Citrus, and Supplement. From savory dishes to baked goods, the Vitality line can be used in almost all of your cooking recipes. Vitality oils are perfect for adding flavor to your favorite foods and beverages. They also have health benefits when taken internally.

How to Make a Mocktail

A mocktail is a play on an alcoholic beverage, just without the booze. You can add alcohol to any of these recipes if you like. I am not a fan of overly sweet beverages, so these recipes have just the right balance of sugar and fruit.

Seltzer water or fruit juice takes the place of the alcohol, without losing any flavor. Garnishing a beverage with a mint sprig or a lemon wedge makes it just a little bit fancier. Take a break from plain old citrus water this summer and mix up a mocktail!

Drinks don’t need alcohol to be fun! Enjoy a Summer Mocktail at your next gathering. Here are 4 drink recipes that will liven up your summer, and make it more delicious:

4 Summer Mocktail Recipes using Vitality Oils

Cucumber Lime Mojito

Ingredients

1 oz fresh lime juice
1 tsp coconut sugar (or honey)
sparkling water
4-5 slices of cucumber, peeled and chopped
4-5 fresh mint leaves
2 drops Lime Vitality essential oil
1 drop Spearmint Vitality essential oil

Directions

Add lime juice, coconut sugar and mint leaves to the bottom of a tall glass. Gently crush the mint leaves with a muddle or the back of a spoon. Add lime and spearmint essential oils and cucumber slices. Fill with ice and sparkling water. Stir. Garnish with a mint sprig.

Strawberry Basil Fizz

Ingredients

2-3 sliced fresh strawberries
fresh basil leaves
1 oz simple syrup
1 oz fresh lemon juice
sparkling water
2 drops Basil Vitality essential oil
1 drop Jade Lemon Vitality essential oil

Directions

In a low cocktail glass, add strawberries, basil leaves, and simple syrup. Gently crush the strawberries and basil leaves with a muddle or the back of a spoon. Add lemon juice and vitality essential oils. Stir. Fill with ice and sparkling water. Garnish with a strawberry and a sprig of basil.

Pomegranate Orange Punch

2 ounces pomegranate juice
1-ounce orange juice
1 oz simple syrup
ginger beer
1 orange, thinly sliced
pomegranate arils
2 drops Orange Vitality essential oil
1 drop Ginger Vitality essential oil

Directions

In a cocktail shaker, combine pomegranate juice, orange juice, essential oils, and simple syrup. Add ice and shake. Pour into a medium glass. Fill to the top with ginger beer and add sliced oranges. Top with pomegranate arils.

Lemon Lavender Spritzer

1 lemon, juiced
1 tablespoon honey
lemon sparkling water (I used Spindrift Lemon)
3 drops Lemon Vitality essential oil
1 toothpick swirl Lavender Vitality essential oil
lavender flowers (optional)
lemon slices

Directions

Juice one lemon into the bottom of a tall glass. Mix in honey and essential oils. Add ice and stir. Fill with sparkling water. Garnish with a lemon slice and lavender flowers.

Notes and Substitutions:

You can use plain or flavored sparkling water like La Croix. Club soda contains added sugar. I did not provide the exact amount of sparkling water in the recipe since this will depend on the type of glass you use. Simply fill your glass to the top with sparkling water.
Simple syrup is easy to make with sugar and water, or you can use storebought.
If you would prefer to add alcohol, try the following options:
- Cucumber Lime Mojito – 1 ½ oz White Rum
- Strawberry Basil Fizz – 1 ½ oz Gin
- Pomegranate Orange Punch – 1 ½ oz Dark Rum
- Lemon Lavender Spritz – 1 ½ oz Vodka
For the Lavender Vitality, dip a clean, dry toothpick into the essential oil bottle. Remove the toothpick and swirl it around in the beverage. One full drop will be overpowering.

More essential oil recipes you might enjoy:

The post 4 Summer Mocktail Recipes appeared first on Recipes with Essential Oils.

Men’s Beard Oil Recipe

Sat, 13 Jun 2020 18:10:06 GMT

A beard looks its best when it’s soft, shiny, and neatly groomed, but beard and mustache hair is often overlooked. Do something nice for a man in your life and make them a Homemade Conditioning Beard Oil. Beards don’t have to be wiry and unruly! This recipe promotes a healthy, neat, and well-groomed beard.

My husband has never been one to keep a beard for very long. He usually starts growing one while on vacation, only to give up after a few days claiming he is irritated by the coarseness of the hairs and how it feels on his skin (I have no experience with this, so I’ll take his word for it).

He already uses essential oils as part of his daily grooming routine. When he does shave, this shave gel and aftershave give him smooth and conditioned skin. This beard oil was just what he needed to help him grow and maintain a healthy beard. His beard makes me happy!

How to Make Beard Oil

Beard oil works similarly to hair serum. It repairs and moisturizes hair follicles. It also helps prevent uncomfortable ingrown hairs which can lead to irritated skin. Nourishing carrier oils soften, while the essential oils moisturize and tame hair.

Vitamin E oil, grapeseed oil, and jojoba are wonderful in this recipe. They are light enough to absorb into facial hair, without leaving an oily residue. Jojoba is the closest oil to the sebum in your skin. Vitamin E adds shine and moisture back into dry hair. Grapeseed oil works to reduce clogged pores. This combination is perfect for all skin and hair types.

Best Essential Oils for Beards

A manly, woodsy scent would be my preference for this recipe, but there are so many options. Certain essential oils are great for nourishing hair. Here are some essential oils to try in your beard oil:

Cedarwood
Pine
Vetiver
Rosemary
Peppermint
Lavender
Elemi
Spruce
Frankincense
Sandalwood
Royal Hawaiian Sandalwood
Northern Lights Black Spruce
Sacred Mountain
Shutran
Valor

This beard oil recipe keeps an unruly beard soft and manageable. It also makes a great homemade gift!

New to essential oils? Learn more about how we use them and why you should use them as well.

Moisturizing Beard Oil Recipe

Ingredients

Directions

Add all the ingredients to a dropper bottle. Use a funnel to avoid spilling. Swirl gently to combine.
To use: drop one dropper full of beard oil into your palms and rub together. Gently massage into beard and mustache. Pay close attention to the skin under the hair. Brush with a comb to style and shape. Use daily.

More Essential Oil Recipes to Try:

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Easy Homemade Essential Oil Candle

Sat, 30 May 2020 19:42:48 GMT

Candles create a relaxing and comforting ambiance in your home. If you are trying to avoid toxic products, you’ve probably been avoiding candles. It is so easy to make natural (and safe) candles at home. Make this Homemade Essential Oil Candle with just three natural ingredients, and bring candles back into your life!

If you have been following me for a while, you have probably heard me talk about the dangers of candles. Don’t get me wrong, I love candles. They are so cozy and fun to have out for holidays and special occasions. Diffusing oils is a much safer way to enjoy ambiance and fragrance. There are several reasons why candles get a bad wrap.

Dangers of Candles

Candles made with artificial fragrances emit harmful chemicals into the air, ultimately contributing to poor indoor air quality. Most candles are made with paraffin wax. Paraffin is a by-product of petroleum or coal. It’s a cheap alternative to soy and beeswax. Burning candles made with paraffin wax and synthetic fragrances releases volatile organic compounds (VOCs) such as formaldehyde into the air.

How to Make an Essential Oil Candle

A homemade candle can be made with a wax base, a wick, and essential oils for fragrance. Soy wax and beeswax are two natural options to use in candle making. Soy candles burn faster than beeswax. Using essential oils is a wonderful way to customize your candle. The scent will be light, but noticeable.

Beeswax Candles

Beeswax was used in the very first candle, dating back to Egyptian times. It has very low levels of toxicity since it releases no bi-products into the air. It can also help neutralize dust, pollution, and odors in the air. Beeswax is a wonderful choice for natural candle making!

Beeswax stays solid and helps prolong the effects and aroma of the essential oils in a candle. Adding a carrier oil such as coconut oil can help the essential oils mix more evenly, last longer, and maintain their scent.

Beewax is also great to keep on hand for a variety of household uses. You can find it in many of my beauty recipes including this Chest Rub, Lip Balm, and Moisture Rich Lotion Bar.

Homemade Essential Oil Candle

Ingredients

4 cups beeswax pellets
1 cup of coconut oil
essential oils (see combinations below)
cotton wick
4-oz mason jars

Directions

Melt the beeswax and coconut oil using a bain-marie or melt in the microwave. Remove from heat. While the mixture is still a liquid, add essential oils and stir.
Add a drop of wax to the center of the jar. Position the wick. You can also add more than one wick for a brighter candle.
Carefully pour the wax mixture into the mason jars. Allow candles to set and cool. Cut the wick to about ½ inch above the wax. Recipe yields 4 candles.
Light and enjoy your homemade candle!

Try one of these 6 essential oil candle recipes:

Summer Nights

20 drops Citronella
10 drops Lavender
10 drops Purification

Cozy Pine

20 drops Northern Lights Black Spruce
10 drops Idaho Grand Fir
10 drops Pine

Island Time

20 drops Stress Away
20 drops Lime
clear pressed vanilla

Home for the Holidays

20 drops Christmas Spirit
10 drops Orange
10 drops Cedarwood

Citrus Grove

10 drops Grapefruit
10 drops Lemon
10 drops Orange
10 drops Tangerine

English Garden

20 drops Geranium
10 drops Ylang Ylang
10 drops Lavender

More essential oil recipes you might enjoy:

The post Easy Homemade Essential Oil Candle appeared first on Recipes with Essential Oils.

Natural Plant Spray for Indoor & Outdoor Plants

Fri, 15 May 2020 22:08:44 GMT

When the weather warms up, it’s the perfect time to get outside and get your hands dirty in the garden! I look forward to gardening every spring. I definitely don’t look forward to all the bugs that come with it. This Natural Plant Spray will help curb pests and nourish your precious plants.

It takes work to create a thriving and bountiful garden. Gardening can be therapeutic and bring on a feeling of accomplishment. My succulent diffuser brings me so much joy! The absolute worst thing that can happen to a garden is for it to be overrun with insects. Insects can destroy plants by eating their leaves, stems, and roots, which can eventually lead to a plant’s demise.

Store-bought sprays designed to kill insects and weeds are highly toxic. DEET is widely used in bug sprays and insecticides. It is a known neurotoxin and some of the long-term effects of DEET include cancer. Pesticides are not only toxic to humans, but they are also harmful to pets and wild animals. They infiltrate our food and water supply. There is no safe pesticide.

As the gatekeeper of my home, I am responsible for what comes through the door. This applies not only to our food, but our personal care products, our cleaning products, and even what we use in and around the garden.

It has become increasingly clear that we must do our own research when choosing products for our families. Reducing the number of chemicals in my home is very important. I have a heightened awareness of products that contain harmful chemicals. I read labels, I do my research, and I only use brands I trust. If I can’t find a clean product that meets my standards, I make it myself.

Use this Natural Plant Spray with essential oils to safely ward off unwanted pests, and nurture your indoor and outdoor plants.

Certain plants can be used to control and repel insects. Planting a diverse garden helps balance the pests. Lavender, lemongrass, and peppermint plants make a great addition to an outdoor garden. Essential oils are extracted from various parts of the plant such as the leaves, stems, and flowers. The essence of the plant remains in the resulting essential oil.

Best Essential Oils for Garden Pests

Peppermint (or spearmint) – repels ants, spiders, aphids, beetles
Rosemary – moths, flies, mosquitos, ticks
Tea Tree – ants, mosquitos, ticks,
Cinnamon Bark – silverfish, cockroaches, dust mites
Clove – wasps, ants, cockroaches, aphids
Lemongrass – gnats, ants, mosquitos, fleas, ticks
Lavender – mosquitos, fleas, flies, spiders
Citronella – spiders, gnats, fleas, mosquitos

Indoor and outdoor plants have different needs. Outdoor plants are exposed to critters and pests that can threaten their health. Indoor plants tend to get less direct sunlight which can slowly kill it off. They can also be infiltrated by pests, harmful fungus, and even dust in an indoor setting.

Here are two recipes for Homemade Natural Plant Sprays:

Natural Plant Spray for Indoor Plants

Ingredients

20 drops Thieves
20 drops Citrus Fresh
distilled water
16 oz spray bottle

Directions

Add Castile soap to the spray bottle and fill the bottle with distilled water.
Mix in essential oils. Swirl gently to combine.

To use:

Spray directly to the soil and to the leaves of an indoor plant. Use a microfiber cloth to remove any dust. Use every 5-7 days, or as needed.

Natural Plant Spray for Outdoor Plants

Ingredients

1 teaspoon Castile soap
10 drops Peppermint
10 drops Rosemary
10 drops Citronella
10 drops Lemongrass
distilled water
16 oz spray bottle

Directions

Add Castile soap to the spray bottle and fill the bottle with distilled water.
Mix in essential oils. Swirl gently to combine.

To use:

Mist the leaves and stems of the plant. Spray on the soil surrounding plants and the garden perimeter. Avoid roots. Use every 5-7 days, or as needed.

More essential oil recipes you might enjoy:

The post Natural Plant Spray for Indoor & Outdoor Plants appeared first on Recipes with Essential Oils.

How to Lighten Hair with Essential Oils

Sat, 02 May 2020 23:52:18 GMT

Getting to a hair salon these days is not easy. Highlights can illuminate your face and give a more youthful appearance. Add subtle highlights to your hair, without visiting a salon. Learn how to lighten hair naturally with essential oils. Brighten up your locks with this easy Essential Oil Hair Lightening Spray recipe!

My hair grows super fast and after about four weeks my brown roots are more than obvious. I was a toe-head blonde my entire childhood. My hair turned brown literally the moment I turned 17. Dishwater I like to call it. I have spent a small fortune trying to keep my hair blonde all these years.

The color of our hair is determined by a pigment called melanin, which is produced by hair follicles. As we age, the body produces less melanin, causing hair to darken and eventually turn gray.

This is good news for hairstylists! The average woman will spend over $50,000 in their lifetime on their hair. Unfortunately, most conventional hair dyes contain various toxic ingredients like bleach and ammonia.

Coloring your hair at home can be risky. Hairstylists are experts in their field and are specially trained in color chemistry. This recipe is not a hair dye but is designed to lighten hair gradually with essential oils and the sun. A diluted spray will give you subtle results, that can be increased slowly to obtain the desired color.

Natural Ways to Lighten Hair

Lemon Juice

The vitamin C in lemon juice can lighten the hair. Lemon juice is great for whitening and brightening in cleaning, so why not try it on your hair. It can be mixed with water and applied to hair for subtle highlights. Lemon essential oil can be used in the same way. Sit out in the sun for an added benefit.

Baking Soda

Baking soda is another common household ingredient that can be used to lighten your hair. Mix it with water to form a paste, and apply it as a hair mask. Rinse and shampoo hair as normal. Baking soda is cleansing and can help remove product build-up.

Hydrogen Peroxide

This method is perhaps the riskiest. Peroxide strips hair of pigment. It can be hard to control the placement of the solution, and if not done correctly it can leave hair damaged. Too much peroxide can also cause hair to turn orange. Use caution with his method and be sure to dilute the solution and don’t overapply. Less is more!

Apple Cider Vinegar

If you are looking to gradually lighten your hair, apple cider vinegar is a good option. It works to balance the pH of your hair. Apple cider vinegar is great for removing build-up which may be dulling your locks. An apple cider vinegar rinse is great to add to your hair care routine.

Chamomile

Tea can be used to both brighten and darken your hair, depending on the strength. Chamomile tea has a brightening effect. Seep several bags of chamomile tea in water and apply it to dry hair. The sun will help it dry and increase its effects. Roman Chamomile essential oil is extracted from the flowers and flowering heads of the plant. It can be used to support healthy-looking hair.

Sun

If you’ve ever spent a summer on the sand, you know that the sun can naturally highlight hair. The rays of the sun bleach out the melanin in your hair, giving it a lighter appearance. A tan face can also make your hair look lighter. Vitamin D from the sun is also great for our immune system and optimal health.

Use this natural hair lightening spray to give your hair a brighter, sun-kissed look!

Essential Oil Hair Lightening Spray

Ingredients

juice of ½ lemon
1 tablespoon fractionated coconut oil
20 drops lemon essential oil (where to buy)
10 drops roman chamomile essential oil (where to buy)
water
spray bottle

Directions

Add coconut oil and essential oils to a glass measuring cup. Stir. Mix in lemon juice.
Carefully add to a 2oz spray bottle. Fill to the top with water.

To use:

Spray onto wet or dry hair, working in sections. Add a second layer of spray until hair feels saturated. Sit out in the sun for 30-60 minutes. Wash hair normally with shampoo and follow up with a deep conditioning spray (optional). Reapply the next day to achieve more intense highlights.

Notes and Substitutions:

The coconut oil in this recipe is not only great for moisturizing, but it helps combine the essential oils so they mix evenly in water. You can also use vitamin E oil or argan oil.

Lemon essential oil is acidic. You can reduce the lemon to 10 drops if you are sensitive to lemon oil. You can also substitute another citrus oil like tangerine or grapefruit. Simply increase the amount of lemon juice.

I used this hair lightening spray recipe three times to achieve subtle highlights. I have red hues in my hair (my mom is a redhead) so my results were more of an auburn rather than light blonde. It really depends on the natural pigments in your hair. It is not effective on colored hair.

More essential oil hair care recipes you might enjoy:

The post How to Lighten Hair with Essential Oils appeared first on Recipes with Essential Oils.

Energizing Essential Oil Roller Blends

Fri, 17 Apr 2020 23:54:34 GMT

We all have those days. You start the morning full of energy, only to be yawning by lunchtime. Sure, coffee can be great for giving you an extra push to finish the day, but it’s probably not what your body needs most. Use these Energizing Essential Oil Roller Blends to help you bounce back from that afternoon slump.

Certain essential oils have been shown to boost energy levels and even influence our emotions. When you breathe in an essential oil it communicates with certain areas of the brain and can have a stimulating effect.

Even just a small whiff of Peppermint is enough to perk you right up. Its natural chemical constituents are traveling directly into your brain to give you a quick zing of energy. Citrus oils are great for lifting moods and promoting feelings of happiness, while herbal scents like Rosemary and Cypress can boost energy levels when inhaled.

Diffusing energizing blends is one way to influence your environment, although the oils are dispersed in small amounts into the air. Applying oils topically is a fast and efficient way to get the molecules of essential oils into the body so you can experience its benefits. The oil permeates the layers of skin and travels into the bloodstream and then throughout the body. Learn how to skillfully make your own balanced essential oils blends.

Best Essential Oils for Energy

Rosemary
Lime
Juniper
Black Pepper
Basil
Grapefruit
Nutmeg
Bergamot
Citrus Fresh
Peppermint
Lemon
Spearmint
Cypress
Cinnamon Bark
Lemongrass
Idaho Grand Fir

Reach for an Energizing Essential Roller Blend the next time you are feeling sluggish and need to finish the day strong!

Energizing Essential Oil Roller Blend

Ingredients

10-ml roller bottle
1 1/2 teaspoons fractionated coconut oil
10 drops Eucalyptus Radiata
5 drops Grapefruit
5 drops Rosemary
1 set of these really cute labels

Directions

Place the coconut oil and essential oils in your roller bottle.
Insert the rollerball and replace the lid. Swirl to combine.
Write on the label and affix it to the bottle.
To Use: Roll a few inches of the mixture onto your forearms and rub them together.
Store in a cool, dark place. This compact carrying case is great for traveling with roller blends. It holds up to 10 of these 10ml bottles and keeps them safe.

Alternate Essential Oil Roller Blends for Energy

Simply substitute these oils for the oils mentioned in the recipe above.

Citrus Fresh, Spearmint, Rosemary

10 drops Citrus Fresh
6 drops Spearmint
2 drops Black Pepper

Rosemary, Lemon, Basil

8 drops Rosemary
8 drops Lemon
4 drops Basil

Lime, Cinnamon Bark, Nutmeg

12 drops Lime
3 drops Cinnamon Bark
3 drops Nutmeg

Lemongrass, Jade Lemon, Bergamot

8 drops Lemongrass
6 drops Jade Lemon
4 drops Bergamot

Idaho Grand Fir, Rosemary, Lemongrass, Black Pepper, Clove

5 drops Idaho Grand Fir
5 drops Rosemary
5 drops Lemongrass
3 drops Black Pepper
2 drops Clove

Lemon, Peppermint, Eucalyptus Radiata, Cinnamon Bark

10 drops Lemon
4 drops Peppermint
4 drops Eucalyptus Radiata
2 drops Cinnamon Bark

Do you love making roller blends and sharing your love of oils with others? Make these DIY roller blends for ENERGIZING and RELAXING at your next oily party with TWO sets of Essential Oil Make & Take Party Printable Packs that support emotions!

Buy Now

More essential oil roller blends you might enjoy:

The post Energizing Essential Oil Roller Blends appeared first on Recipes with Essential Oils.

Diffuser Recipes to Bring the Outdoors In

Sat, 04 Apr 2020 19:58:08 GMT

Bring all your favorite outdoor smells inside with your essential oil diffuser. This set of diffuser blend recipes were created with the scents of the outdoors in mind. You can enjoy all the best smells of nature with these 7 Diffuser Recipes to Bring the Outdoors In. Take a walk on the beach, a hike through the forest, or enjoy the mountain air. Immerse yourself in nature with oils!

Being stuck indoors for a long period of time can have a negative impact on your health and well-being. It’s called cabin fever for a reason! Decreased sunshine and lack of fresh air can be hard on the immune system. Less social interaction can lead to depression and feelings of hopelessness.

We diffuse essential oils for many reasons. They can freshen the air in our home, improve our mood, and bring on feelings of relaxation. When you can’t take a walk through the forest or visit the beach, a diffuser blend can help recreate the scenic surroundings you might be missing.

Diffuser Recipes to Bring the Outdoors In

Desert

The dry heat in the desert can be cleansing. It helps ease inflammation and bring on feelings of peace and tranquility. Desert plants have a distinct earthy scent that can be appreciated in this blend.

3 drops Patchouli
3 drops Eucalyptus Globulus
2 drops Juniper

Beach

The smell of the sea is shown to reduce stress, calm your mind, and improve mental health. The ocean breeze can bring on feelings of relaxation. This diffuser recipe reminds me of crashing waves and salty air.

2 drops Lime
2 drops Lavender
2 drops Spearmint

Meadows

Spring brings wildflowers and green grasses make the perfect setting for a picnic. Step away from the hustle and bustle of the city with this mellow, floral blend.

3 drops Geranium
3 drops Frankincense
3 drops Grapefruit
1 drop Lemongrass

River

A lazy Sunday afternoon down by the river is dreamy. The gentle sound of the water flowing over the rocks. The many scents of nature combine at the river, just like in this diffuser blend.

3 drops Lavender
3 drops Grapefruit
2 drops Cedarwood

Mountains

The mighty mountains in the background remind us of the earth’s power and its past. The crisp, mountain air can ease feelings of stress and support the respiratory system. Breathe in this cool, cleansing blend and take a moment to yourself.

3 drops Northern Lights Black Spruce
2 drops Peppermint
2 drops Rosemary
1 drop Tea Tree

Out to Sea

Being out to sea can be invigorating. Whitecaps and squalls on the horizon, the open ocean stretching for miles. Nature is in control. This blend helps promote feelings of strength and adventure, like being on a sailboat.

2 drops Spearmint
2 drops Peppermint
2 drops Lemongrass
1 drop Citronella

Forest

The forest breathes life into the world. A walk beneath the trees is both restorative and cleansing. This diffuser blend has hints of herbs, foliage, and earth.

3 drops Cypress
3 drops Copaiba
2 drops Basil

Be sure you are effectively using your essential oil diffusers by checking out this free Comprehensive Diffuser Guide here!

You might also enjoy these essential oil diffuser recipes:

The post Diffuser Recipes to Bring the Outdoors In appeared first on Recipes with Essential Oils.

Homemade Dill Pickles

Thu, 02 Apr 2020 19:05:41 GMT

Make your own crunchy, tangy, and perfectly delicious pickles at home! Refrigerator pickles are surprisingly fast and easy to make. You can have homemade pickles in days, without any special canning supplies or skills. These Homemade Dill Pickles are perfect for snacking, for sandwiches, or on a burger or dog. The dill and black pepper essential oils amp up the flavor and work nicely with the garlic and peppers. Make them as spicy or as mild as you choose.

I have to admit, I was apprehensive the first time I made pickles. I had yet to find any store-bought pickles that really impressed me. So I did a bit of research and got the gist of the recipe down. I chopped up some cucumbers, added the brine, put the jar in the fridge and hoped for the best.

My first batch came out perfect. I was slightly shocked! The pickles were crunchy and fresh with just the right amount of acidity. A few more batches and I found a combination that was perfect for my taste buds. The Dill and Black Pepper Vitality oils intensify the flavor.

I make a few jars of refrigerator pickles every year. I am a huge pickle fan! Some get gifted to friends and neighbors, but I keep most of them for myself. I love that you can change up this homemade dill pickle recipe depending on what’s in season. They also make a thoughtful gift!

What is a Pickle?

A ‘pickle’ refers to anything that has been brined or fermented using salt and vinegar. The result is a slightly sour, crunchy vegetables with a long shelf life. The pickles we have come to associate with the term are typically made from cucumbers, but they can be made with any firm vegetables.

Pickles likely originated in India as far back as 2400 BCE. Pickling was an effective way to preserve food for long sea journeys. You will find pickling in almost all cuisines.

How to Make Homemade Pickles

There are several ways to make pickles. The flavor will vary depending on the amount of salt, the length of time to brine, and the ingredients used to enhance the flavor.

The easiest (and fastest) way to make pickles is by soaking and refrigerating them in a salt brine. You can pickle any type of vegetable in this fashion. Beets, carrots, asparagus, peppers, okra, and even green beans can be brine-pickled with great results. Any vegetable that you enjoy eating raw can be thrown in the mix and it will pickle nicely.

These types of pickles will not have the same probiotic benefits as fermented pickles, and they’ll have a shorter shelf life. Fermented pickles contain lactic acid, which preserves valuable nutrients in the vegetables. Pickles that have been fermented contain probiotics, which help support healthy digestion.

Refrigerator Pickles

A refrigerator acts as a preserver, meaning it extends the life of food by slowing down the growth of bacteria. The taste and texture of the food remain intact for an extended period of time.

In this recipe, all you need to do is slice the vegetables, boil the liquids, and let the refrigerator do the rest of the work. These pickles can be enjoyed in as little as 24 hours, but 3 days is just right for me. They will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 months.

Homemade Dill Pickles

Course Appetizer

Cuisine American

Keyword pickles

Prep Time 15 minutes

Cook Time 10 minutes

Refrigerator 3 days

Total Time 3 days 25 minutes

Servings jar

Equipment

16 oz mason jar
medium stockpot

Ingredients

4-6 large pickling cucumbers
8-10 sprigs dill weed
4 cloves garlic
1 1/2 tablespoons kosher salt
1 cup white vinegar
1 cup of water
2 teaspoons sugar
2 teaspoons mustard seeds
1 tsp red pepper flakes
2 drops Dill Vitality Essential Oil
1 drop Black Pepper Essential Oil
16 oz wide mouth mason jar

Instructions

Clean mason jars with warm soapy water and let them dry completely.
Wash cucumbers and cut into 4-inch spears. Peel garlic and leave whole.
Place the cucumbers in the mason jar first, packing them in tightly. Surround the cucumbers with equal amounts of garlic cloves and dill sprigs. Add more cucumbers until there is no space between the vegetables and the jar.
Add 2 teaspoons of mustard seeds and 2 teaspoons red pepper flakes to each jar.
In a saucepan, bring the vinegar, water, sugar, and salt to a roaring boil. Remove the mixture from the heat and divide the liquid equally between the two jars. Let cool to room temperature.
Once cool, add essential oils, seal the lid, and place it in the back of the fridge. After 2 days, sample a pickle from a jar. It should be crisp and slightly sour. You should be able to easily snap it in two clean pieces. If they are still kind of soggy, leave them be for another day or so before eating. Enjoy!

Notes

You can use any variety of cucumbers, depending on what is fresh and in stock. I would recommend using organic cucumbers since you will be eating the skin. If using small cucumbers, you can leave them whole, or slice them into chips.
The base of the pickling brine is salt, vinegar, and water. You can add more sugar if you want to sweeten them up. You can add or omit any of the ingredients in this recipe to your liking.
Add peppers to increase the heat like red serranos or jalapenos. You can also add bell peppers to reduce the level of spice.
The dill and black pepper essential oil should be added at the very end once the brine has cooled off a bit. Adding the oils to hot or boiling liquid will compromise the flavor.

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More essential oil cooking recipes you might enjoy:

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DIY Hand Sanitizer with Essential Oils

Sat, 07 Mar 2020 03:00:22 GMT

As the gatekeeper of my home, I can control what comes in the door and the overall cleanliness. When we leave our home, all bets are off. A simple trip to the grocery store involves contact with door handles, cart handles, credit card machines, and so on. We are exposed to thousands upon thousands of germs. This DIY hand sanitizer with essential oils uses natural ingredients to wipe out germs left lurking on your hands.

When I was pregnant for the first time I was overly cautious in public, often grabbing door handles with my sleeves. Theoretically, it offered some protection from germs even though I looked pretty silly. I didn’t want to pick up any yuck that could harm me or baby girl when I couldn’t wash my hands.

Later I realized I couldn’t possibly get my 1-year-old to use her sleeve to touch the outside world. Since traditional hand sanitizers contain ingredients I would not consider safe, I sought out more natural options for cleaning our hands.

Washing your hands with warm water and soap is the best way to reduce the spread of germs, but hand sanitizer is a good substitute when you can’t make it to a sink. While I can’t control the number of germs we are exposed to in an outing, I can take certain measures to ensure our hands stay as clean and sanitized in the safest way possible.

The ingredients in this DIY Hand Sanitizer work to wipe out germs and cleanse your hands while leaving them soft and moisturized.

Natural Ingredients

Alcohol

Alcohol is crucial in this recipe for its germ-killing powers. It’s a natural disinfectant and is consistently used in wound care. Alcohol dissolves bacteria through a process called denaturation. It breaks down the membranes of the bacteria’s cells and it dies off quickly.

A minimum level of 60% alcohol is required for a solution to be considered effective for disinfection, while 70% is best. The downside of using alcohol is that it can be drying to the skin. Combining it with a moisturizer such as aloe vera will help remedy this.

Aloe vera gel has soothing properties that make it great for irritated skin. It is one of the best natural moisturizers, containing vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. The gel is extracted from the interior of the leaf of the aloe vera plant. It can be used directly from the plant or purchased from a trusted retailer. Aloe vera gel is used widely for burns and may improve the appearance of dry or cracked skin.

Vegetable Glycerin acts as a skin barrier in this recipe. It helps lock in moisture and is a great natural emulsifier when mixing essential oils in DIY recipes. Vegetable glycerin is perfect in skincare recipes for its ability to hydrate and moisturize the skin.

Antibacterial Essential Oils

The essential oils below have antibacterial and antimicrobial properties. The oils leave a touch of natural fragrance on your hands while providing cleansing benefits:

Tea-Tree
Cinnamon Bark
Thyme
Clove
Peppermint
Manuka
Lemon
Lavender
Spearmint
Eucalyptus Radiata
Thieves blend
Purification blend

DIY Hand Sanitizer with Essential Oils

Keyword hand sanitizer

Cook Time 2 minutes

Total Time 3 minutes

Equipment

bowl
spoon

Ingredients

1 tablespoon rubbing alcohol at least 70%
2 tablespoons aloe vera gel
1 tablespoon vegetable glycerin
4 drops Tea Tree
3 drops Lemon
3 drops Lavender
2 oz flip-top container

Instructions

Combine alcohol, aloe vera gel, and vegetable glycerin in a shallow bowl
Mix to combine.
Add essential oils and stir.
Use a funnel to pour into a flip-top container

Notes

To Use: Apply a quarter-size amount to the palm of your hands. Rub palms together and rub the gel over the tops of your hands, paying close attention to your fingers. Allow hands to dry before touching anything. Use anytime you are unable to cleanse your hands with soap and water.

More Hand Sanitizer Essential Oil Combinations

3 drops Cinnamon Bark, 4 drops Lemon, 3 drops Eucalyptus radiata
5 drops Thieves, 5 drops Tea Tree
4 drops Spearmint, 3 drops Lavender, 3 drops Bergamot
5 drops Purification, 5 drops Lemon

Note: This hand sanitizer gel is not commercial grade, therefore I cannot guarantee 100% germ elimination. It is not recommended for use among people working in the healthcare setting. As always, you should gather information and make decisions as it pertains to your own health.

More essential oil recipes you might enjoy:

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Immune Boosting Essential Oil Roller Blends

Sat, 08 Feb 2020 19:06:47 GMT

In my home, essential oils are part of our daily routine. We use them to promote healthy sleep, to help us relax, and to keep everyone in a good mood. We also use them to try to stay well. The winter can be hard on little, immature immune systems. Essential oil roller blends are easy to make and convenient. Try these Immune Boosting Roller Blends to keep everyone in tip-top shape this winter.

Practicing healthy habits is one way to stay healthy, especially in the winter. It’s easier to stop sickness before it starts. Frequent hand washing with hot water and soap or a cleansing spray, staying away from sick people, and eating a balanced diet are all preventative measures meant to promote good health.

During the winter months, people are more susceptible to illness. We get less vitamin D from spending less time outdoors, leaving our immune systems vulnerable. Cold air can be hard on the respiratory tract which can compromise the immune system. We also tend to engage in unhealthy habits in the winter. More time indoors means less exercise, not to mention all the extra calories consumed during the holidays. It’s no wonder people get sick more frequently in the winter!

Certain essential oils have antibacterial, antimicrobial and antiviral properties. Because of these properties, essential oils can be used to promote wellness.

Immune Boosting Essential Oils

Thieves
Rosemary
Oregano
Lemon
Cinnamon Bark
Clove
Frankincense
Tea Tree
Eucalyptus
Lemongrass
Peppermint
Cypress

Perhaps the most popular and well-known immune-boosting essential oil blend is Thieves. This unique blend was inspired by a legend of 15th-century French grave robbers who formulated a special blend of rosemary, clove, and other botanicals to ward off sickness.

Since Thieves is already a blend of 5 different immune-boosting oils, it’s a great oil to add to a roller bottle. Mix it with a carrier oil, or combine with other essential oils to pack a bigger punch.

This winter, make essential oil roller blends a part of your wellness strategy!

4 Immune Boosting Roller Blends

Directions: In a 10ml roller bottle, add essential oils and fill to the top with the carrier oil of your choice. Fractionated coconut oil is ideal, but you can also use jojoba oil or sweet almond oil. Swirl to combine. Add a vinyl label to the bottle.

To use: Apply liberally to the wrists, neck, spine, or the bottoms of the feet.

All is Well

10 drops Tea Tree
10 drops Lemon
8 drops Lavender
4 drops Cypress

Fit as a Fiddle

8 drops Eucalyptus Radiata
8 drops Orange
8 drops Rosemary
4 drops Cinnamon Bark
4 drops Clove

Daily Dose

15 drops Thieves
15 drops Lemon

Winter Warrior

10 drops Thieves
8 drops Frankincense
8 drops Lemon
4 drops Oregano

*Note: If making these blends for children ages 6 and above, cut the drops of essential oils in half. Take caution when using these blends on children under 6. Some oils are not considered safe for small children. You can read more about safely using essential with children here.

Make rolling on essential oils part of your daily routine! Grab the kids before school or before bed for a quick roll on. My kiddos like oils on their feet and then we put on their socks. Certain oils (like oregano) can be stinky, so the socks help mask the smell. Wherever you put them, apply them frequently to fully benefit from the essential oils.

More essential oil recipes you might enjoy:

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Diffuser Recipes for Romance

Sat, 01 Feb 2020 22:26:29 GMT

Love is in the air. Or is that the diffuser? You don’t need toxic candles to set the mood! This Valentine’s Day, mix up some special diffuser blends for love month. Skip the chocolates and roses and diffuse your way into love with these Diffuser Recipes for Romance.

Not all girls want flowers for Valentine’s Day. Some of us want Rose, Jasmine, Geranium, and Ylang Ylang essential oils!

Valentine’s Day means something different to everyone. To most, it serves as a simple reminder to celebrate those we love. Whether you have a special someone or are flying solo this year, you can easily incorporate essential oils into the mix.

Certain scents make us feel happy, relaxed or energized. Essential oils can influence your surroundings, and even change the way you feel. When you inhale essential oils, you are communicating directly with the feelings area of the brain. You are also forming associations with pleasurable experiences.

This set of romantic diffuser recipes are filled with sugar and spice and everything nice. Sweet, floral oils like Ylang Ylang and Lavender are a common theme, but romance doesn’t always have to include flowers. Spicy oils like black pepper, cinnamon, and ginger give the blends depth, while citrus balances and enhances the aroma. Citrus oils like orange and bergamot are also perfect for influencing and elevating mood.

Best Essential Oils for Celebrating Love:

Ylang Ylang
Clary Sage
Bergamot
Orange
Jasmine
Neroli
Palmarosa
Sandalwood
Geranium
and of course…ROSE

These Diffuser Blends for Romance will have you feeling like you took some Love Potion No. 9. Try them out this Valentine’s Day!

9 Diffuser Recipes for Romance

Love Spell

2 drops Patchouli
2 drops Ylang Ylang
2 drops Bergamot

Love Yo’ Self

3 drops Lavender
2 drops Stress Away
2 drops Clary Sage

Spice it Up

4 drops Grapefruit
2 drops Jasmine
1 drop Black Pepper

Love Me Tender

4 drops Ylang Ylang
3 drops Lavender
2 drops Neroli

Happy in Love

4 drops Grapefruit
3 drops Joy

Be Mine

3 drops Sandalwood
3 drops Orange
3 drops Grapefruit

Long Embrace

4 drops Ylang Ylang
2 drop Cinnamon Bark
1 drop Ginger

Galentine’s Day

2 drops Clary Sage
2 drops Ylang Ylang
2 drops Lavender
2 drops Geranium

Stay Awhile

2 drops Marjoram
4 drops Ylang Ylang
3 drops Tangerine

Be sure you are effectively using your essential oil diffusers by checking out our free Comprehensive Diffuser Guide here!

More essential oil recipes for romance:

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8 Ways to Practice Self-Care with Essential Oils

Fri, 17 Jan 2020 01:43:50 GMT

Taking care of yourself is not selfish, and it’s not hard to do. Self-care goes beyond a day at the spa. Any activity that you engage in that takes care of your mental, physical, and emotional well-being is considered self-care. Essential oils have been shown to elevate moods, promote relaxation, increase focus, and bring on feelings of peace. In other words, they are perfect for practicing self-care! Here are 8 Ways to Practice Self-Care with Essential Oils.

When I told my two closest friends I was writing a blog post about self-care they literally both laughed out loud. No joke. I am really, really bad at self-care. But I want to be better. I need to be better, for myself and my family.

This New Year, I did some reflection into what was missing from my daily routine, and what I could do differently to make this my best year yet. I realized that the biggest thing missing was ‘me’ time. A few moments to myself each day, doing only something that I wanted to do. As a busy, working mom those moments are few and far between. At the end of the day, my cup is empty.

So I made it my goal this year to spend at least 15 minutes a day engaging in an act of self-care. Today I took a walk. Tomorrow I might read a few chapters in a book. Each day I am committed to taking care of myself, even if it’s just for a moment.

How to Practice Self-Care

As I started learning more about self-care, I found that it’s important to make it an intentional act. Whether it’s spending time on an outdoor walk, getting a pedicure, reading a book, or taking a moment for meditation, it can easily be incorporated into your daily routine.

We already do many of these activities within our day, but to truly benefit from these acts, you need to treat these moments as planned events that have a purpose.

If you are a calendar type of person, try adding these activities to your calendar and set a reminder. You can even make it something you already do each morning, like taking an uninterrupted shower before starting your day. There are so many moments in your day to incorporate peaceful self-care activities.

8 Ways to Practice Self-Care with Essential Oils

1. Soak in a Bathtub

I love taking baths because it forces me to unplug. No phones and no distractions. Bathing in a tub can help reduce stress, ease aching muscles, and may calm a restless mind. Intensify the effects with a Homemade Bath Bomb or Bath Salts. Adding essential oils to a bath has numerous therapeutic benefits. Try lavender if you are winding down after a long day, or Stress Away to clear your mind. The possibilities are endless. Listen to your body and choose an oil to support how you are feeling!

2. Clean Your Space

Now some may say that cleaning is not relaxing, while others would argue that tidying your space can be restorative. Clutter and dirty dishes can make some people feel overwhelmed or anxious. For me, cleaning and organizing give me a sense of control in an otherwise chaotic environment. Try spending time each day tackling a new chore. Cleaning with essential oils is just another way to incorporate aromatherapy into your daily routine. Plus, you’ll feel comforted by the idea that you are not bringing any harmful chemicals in your home. Check out my 6 Best Essential Oil Spring Cleaning Recipes.

3. Show Your Skin Some Love

Most people associate skin-care and beauty treatments with self-care. No one needs to get a facial or a massage, but it sure is nice. It’s a luxury that makes us feel pampered and spoiled. A few times a week, take some time to exfoliate your skin, apply a face mask, or roll on a skin serum with a jade roller. I recently discovered Jade Rollers and I am obsessed! This trendy beauty tool can increase circulation in your face and neck and reduce puffiness. Bring the spa into your bathroom every single night!

4. Take a Hot Shower

For those days where you don’t have time to soak in a tub, a hot shower with a Shower Bomb can have a similar effect. Place a shower bomb on the floor of the shower and let the water run over it. The oils will be released into the air and provide an invigorating experience. The hot water can also relieve muscle tension and improve circulation, while the steam is great for congestion. Shower Bombs are inexpensive, easy to make, and very customizable for how you feel that day. I also love diffusing oils in the shower with my Oasis Shower Diffuser!

5. Indulge in a Sweet Treat

Self-care can include eating. It shouldn’t be viewed as a weakness or even “cheating.” A meal enjoyed with a special someone or an impromptu visit to the ice cream shop is self-care. While eating a well-balanced diet is essential to overall health and fitness, every now and again indulging in a sweet treat is necessary. Try a homemade cupcake with Lavender Vanilla Buttercream Frosting. It’s just enough to satisfy your sweet tooth. Plus, baking something can be relaxing and rewarding.

6. Sit Down with a Book and a Cup of Tea

Reading is another calming activity that counts as self-care. Intensify the effects with a cup of Lavender Chamomile Tea. This comforting bedtime tea recipe features a blend of soothing chamomile tea, honey, and lavender vitality essential oil. Chamomile tea promotes a sense of calm and relaxation and prepares your body for sleep. Lavender Vitality has a mild floral flavor and can be used to ease nervous tension. There is also something so comforting and restorative about a warm beverage.

7. Surround Yourself with Plants

Gardening has numerous health benefits. Indoor plants are not only beautiful to look at, but they can also improve mood and productivity. Indoor plants purify the air in your home by absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen. They also emit chemicals called phytoncides into the air which have been shown to lower cortisol levels. Taking care of a plant can be incredibly rewarding and boost self-esteem. Try making a Succulent Diffuser for Essential Oils, and make plant care self-care.

8. Take a Moment to Yourself

When the day is winding down, refill your diffuser with one of these Diffuser Recipes for Relaxing. Then take a seat on the couch in front of your favorite show and sink into a moment of peace. These diffuser recipes focus on a few main essential oils attributes to allow you to genuinely experience a state of calm. See all of our Diffuser Recipes here.

Best Essential Oils to Promote Self-care

Ylang Ylang – filters out negative energy
Orange – uplifting
Lavender – heightens relaxation
Stress Away – renews the spirit
Rosemary – eases anxiety
Peppermint – improves concentration
Basil – fights mental fatigue
Helichrysum – clarifying and grounding

Ditch the Excuses

Don’t make excuses for not practicing self-care. Here a few of the excuses I’ve found myself saying:

It’s too expensive – sure, a spa day will set you back, but DIY beauty treatments are super affordable. You can give yourself a mani-pedi at home for a few dollars.
I don’t have time – if you can’t find the time, make the time. Get up 30 minutes earlier, use your lunch break, or stay up a little later at night practicing self-care.
I’m not good at being alone – you can integrate others into self-care activities. Go for a walk with a friend or take them to coffee. You don’t have to go it alone!
I have kids – I use this excuse a lot. Sure, my kids are little and need more from me, but taking care of myself and working to reduce my stress level makes me a better mom.

More Essential Oil Recipes for Self-Care:

Hopefully, these tips for practicing self-care with essential oils will help you have a less stressful year!

The post 8 Ways to Practice Self-Care with Essential Oils appeared first on Recipes with Essential Oils.

Salt Dough Diffuser Ornament

Sun, 22 Dec 2019 03:50:36 GMT

Flour, water, and salt. That is all you need to make a keepsake ornament to cherish for years to come. These DIY ornaments are easy to make and safe for all members of the family to join in. This Christmas, create a Cinnamon Salt Dough Diffuser Ornament for your tree and fill your home (and your heart) with the enjoyable scent of essential oils.

Salt Dough ornaments are a classic holiday craft that gracefully adorns Christmas trees around the world.

I have fond childhood memories of making homemade salt dough ornaments, both at school and also at home with my family. I still have a few of the ornaments that hung on our family Christmas tree nearly 30 years ago. Now, I have a new collection of homemade ornaments made by my children, which grows larger every year.

As my kids get older, the ornaments get a little bit fancier and a little bit more elaborate, but they still represent their unique personalities. We love making ornaments out of natural air-dry clay, like this Christmas Diffuser Ornament.

This year, we are making Cinnamon Salt Dough Diffuser Ornaments. The cinnamon adds a touch of color and enhances the smell of the essential oils. You can customize the ornament and also the scent with different oils. The ingredients are so simple, you likely already have them in your cupboard.

So grab a cup of peppermint hot cocoa, and follow along as we make Salt Dough Diffuser Ornaments!

History of Salt Dough

These types of ornaments have been made for centuries, dating back to Egyptian times. The ingredients were easily accessible and at a low cost. The art of using salt dough ornaments as a festive decoration became popular in Europe, more specifically in Germany.

The salt works to preserve the ornament, while the flour and water form a clay-like dough. The dough can be shaped into any design, and once it dries it will last for years. You can extend the life of a salt dough ornament by sealing it with varnish like a mod-podge or polyurethane paint.

How to Make a Salt Dough Ornament

All you need to make this recipe is flour, salt, and water. If you are the creative type, gather some crafting supplies to customize your ornament. Cookie cutters, stamps, glitter, and acrylic paint are some of the supplies you can use.

I kept this recipe simple and added cinnamon to give it a bit of color and an added touch of fragrant cinnamon. You can let the ornaments dry overnight, or bake them in a low-temperature oven to speed things up. Get the kids involved for a fun craft and make an ornament to treasure year after year!

New to essential oils? Learn more about how we use them and why you should use them as well.

Cinnamon Salt Dough Diffuser Ornament

Ingredients

1 cup flour
1/2 cup salt
1/4 cup cinnamon
1/2 cup warm water
twine
parchment paper
straw

Directions

Preheat oven to 200 degrees.
Mix salt, flour, cinnamon, and water.
Knead the mixture into a ball. If the mixture is too sticky, add additional flour to get the right consistency.
Knead dough until there are no cracks and the dough is smooth for about 5 minutes. Refrigerate dough for one hour.
Roll dough out flat onto parchment paper or a silicone slip mat, about ¼ inch thick.
Use cookie cutters to cut out shapes, or imprint designs with stamps.
Use a straw to punch a hole at the top of the ornament to add a ribbon. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Bake for 2-3 hours, or dry overnight. Let cool completely.
Paint and decorate your ornaments. Let dry and tie with a ribbon or twine.
Add 2-3 drops of the essential oil of your choice to the back of the ornament and hang on your tree!

Essential Oils to Add to Your Diffuser Ornament

If you have a fake tree in your home, you are probably missing the scent of a fresh cut pine or fir tree. Essential oils can be added to an artificial tree to recreate the scent using a diffuser ornament.

Simply add 2-3 drops of oil to the back of the ornament. Read more about adding essential oils to your Christmas tree here.

Here are my favorite essential oils to use around the holidays:

Christmas Spirit
Northern Lights Black Spruce
Pine
Cinnamon Bark
Cedarwood
Frankincense
Orange
Cypress
Myrrh
Clove
Peppermint
Stress Away

I found these adorable essential oil bottle cookie cutters here. I am obsessed! They are perfect for making ornaments or cookies. These will get plenty of use at my house!

More essential oil holiday recipes you might enjoy:

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Recipes with Essential Oils

Pumpkin Preserver Spray + Thieves Pumpkin Seeds

How to Make a Pumpkin Last Longer

Essential Oil Pumpkin Preserver Spray

Roasted Pumpkin Seeds

Thieves Pumpkin Seeds

More essential oil recipes you might enjoy:

Diffuser Blends for Halloween

Best Essential Oils for Halloween

These Halloween diffuser blends will take you back to a fun-filled night packed with mystery and excitement!

More Ways to Enjoy Halloween Scents:

You might also enjoy these diffuser recipes:

Be sure you are effectively using your essential oil diffusers by checking out our free Comprehensive Diffuser Guide here!

8 Diffuser Blends Inspired by Candle Scents

What is Essential Oil Diffusing?

Dangers of Candles

Diffusing vs. Candles

Skip the candles this year and reach for a diffuser blend to replace your favorite candle scents!

8 Diffuser Blends Inspired by Candle Scents

Be sure you are effectively using your essential oil diffusers by checking out our free Comprehensive Diffuser Guide here!

You might also enjoy these diffuser recipes:

All About Lemon Verbena

Lemon Verbena

Historical Uses

Fun Facts

Aroma and Tips for Blending

How to Use Lemon Verbena Essential Oil

Benefits of Lemon Verbena Essential Oil

Diffuser Recipes Featuring Lemon Verbena

Essential Oil Mask Spray

Adding essential oils to a mask can make wearing one more tolerable, and will help keep your mask smelling amazing in between washes!

Influencing Emotions with Essential Oils

Best Essential Oils to Add to a Fabric Mask

Mask Spray Ingredients

Try this Energizing Mask Spray recipe to freshen your mask, and give you a boost of energy throughout the day!

Energizing Mask Spray Recipe

More essential oil mask spray combinations to try:

Healthy Mask Options

Mask Care Tips

More essential oil recipes you might enjoy:

All About Copaiba Essential Oil

Copaiba Essential Oil

Botanical Family

Common Names

Historical Uses

Fun Facts

Extraction Method

Aroma and Tips for Blending

Top Uses for Copaiba Essential Oil

Recipes Featuring Copaiba

Find all of our recipes using Copaiba essential oil by clicking here.

How to Organize & Store Essential Oils

How to Organize Essential Oils

Labeling Essential Oil Bottles

Ways to Organize Oil Bottles

Essential Oil Storage Ideas

Here are some clever (and attractive) ways to store your essential oils in your home:

How to Safely Store Essential Oils

More essential oil tutorials you might enjoy:

4 Summer Mocktail Recipes

Vitality Essential Oils in Food and Beverages

How to Make a Mocktail

Drinks don’t need alcohol to be fun! Enjoy a Summer Mocktail at your next gathering. Here are 4 drink recipes that will liven up your summer, and make it more delicious:

4 Summer Mocktail Recipes using Vitality Oils

Cucumber Lime Mojito

Strawberry Basil Fizz

Pomegranate Orange Punch

Lemon Lavender Spritzer

Notes and Substitutions:

More essential oil recipes you might enjoy:

Men’s Beard Oil Recipe

How to Make Beard Oil

Best Essential Oils for Beards

This beard oil recipe keeps an unruly beard soft and manageable. It also makes a great homemade gift!

Moisturizing Beard Oil Recipe

More Essential Oil Recipes to Try:

Easy Homemade Essential Oil Candle

Dangers of Candles

How to Make an Essential Oil Candle

Beeswax Candles