LIME ESSENTIAL OIL BENEFITS: FIGHT CANCER, SOOTHE INFLAMMATION, BOOST MOOD AND MORE!
How can you use the essence of lime to improve your wellness? Here is your categorized discussion of some of lime’s amazing health benefits. COUNTER ACT STRESS EFFECTS WITH LIME |
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CAN LIME ESSENTIAL OIL ADDRESS WEIGHT LOSS STRUGGLES?
Weight loss is an ongoing battle for an ever-growing number of American men and women. It is distressing that even our children are increasingly struggling to control their weight in a healthy, nurturing way. In addition to healthy eating habits, using essential oils can help.
You've probably seen the recommendations to drink fresh lemon or lime beverages to help lose weight. But lime essential oil is an even more concentrated, and, though it has a different chemical profile than the juice, may contribute to weight-loss efforts as well. It's one of my seven top essential oils for weight loss support!
Lime essential oil has been proven to help prevent weight gain in this murine study. In another study, subjects were given capsules with lime essential oil before lunch and dinner, and capsules of coriander seed after lunch and dinner. Even with no additional lifestyle changes, they showed significant weight loss in just a few weeks. Those who were given higher doses lost the most weight on average.
D-limonene was shown in this study to help prevent and treat high triglyceride (fat) levels, high cholesterol levels and in this murine study, helped balance high blood sugar levels. This was true even in subjects consuming a terrible diet and who already carried excessive weight.
This information obviously is not meant to encourage poor food choices, but rather to offer hope that essential oil therapy for weight loss can offer great results. Starting from where you are, even if you feel you haven’t completely fixed your diet yet, is important. Make simple switches in your sweeteners, your meat, and look for healthy recipes your family will enjoy.
You've probably seen the recommendations to drink fresh lemon or lime beverages to help lose weight. But lime essential oil is an even more concentrated, and, though it has a different chemical profile than the juice, may contribute to weight-loss efforts as well. It's one of my seven top essential oils for weight loss support!
Lime essential oil has been proven to help prevent weight gain in this murine study. In another study, subjects were given capsules with lime essential oil before lunch and dinner, and capsules of coriander seed after lunch and dinner. Even with no additional lifestyle changes, they showed significant weight loss in just a few weeks. Those who were given higher doses lost the most weight on average.
D-limonene was shown in this study to help prevent and treat high triglyceride (fat) levels, high cholesterol levels and in this murine study, helped balance high blood sugar levels. This was true even in subjects consuming a terrible diet and who already carried excessive weight.
This information obviously is not meant to encourage poor food choices, but rather to offer hope that essential oil therapy for weight loss can offer great results. Starting from where you are, even if you feel you haven’t completely fixed your diet yet, is important. Make simple switches in your sweeteners, your meat, and look for healthy recipes your family will enjoy.
LIME ESSENTIAL OIL BENEFITS INFLAMMATION
Inflammation is a necessary part of healing, in fact, your body cannot heal without a degree of inflammation. However, chronic or excessive inflammation can cause numerous very serious inflammatory conditions, including:
Citrus oils such as lime essential oil are proven by peer- reviewed studies in mice to be active, safe, and effective anti-inflammatory agents. They seem to specifically address inflammation at its cellular source.
If you or a loved one suffers from an inflammatory condition, add lime essential oil to your daily diffuser blend, uplifting room spray, or pillow sachet to support healing.
- asthma
- atherosclerosis
- certain cancers
- Crohn's disease
- hay fever
- active hepatitis
- rheumatoid arthritis
- chronic peptic ulcer
- periodontitis
- sinusitis
- tuberculosis
- ulcerative colitis
Citrus oils such as lime essential oil are proven by peer- reviewed studies in mice to be active, safe, and effective anti-inflammatory agents. They seem to specifically address inflammation at its cellular source.
If you or a loved one suffers from an inflammatory condition, add lime essential oil to your daily diffuser blend, uplifting room spray, or pillow sachet to support healing.
ANTI-AGING ANTIOXIDANTS IN LIME ESSENTIAL OILS
Lime essential oil prevents and treats signs of aging such as dark skin spots, deep wrinkles, fine skin lines, skin dryness, and lack of elasticity. The high levels of antioxidants even help with brain fog and memory lapses. While no essential oil can turn back the clock two decades overnight, specific components in lime essential oil (such as limonene) are among the best sources of antioxidants safe for regular use.
This means, one of our our favorite essential oil roll-ons not only treats visible signs of aging, but some of the physical deterioration as well if it is caused by oxidative stress. And of course the antimicrobial benefits makes it great for healthy homemade deodorants and other body-care recipes.
This means, one of our our favorite essential oil roll-ons not only treats visible signs of aging, but some of the physical deterioration as well if it is caused by oxidative stress. And of course the antimicrobial benefits makes it great for healthy homemade deodorants and other body-care recipes.
WHAT ARE LIME ESSENTIAL OIL BENEFITS FOR MAJOR HEALTH CONCERNS?
Lime essential oil doesn't just benefit sleep concerns and mild anxiety. Studies are showing health benefits and healing support for major medical issues too! Isn't God amazing?
Cancer fighting. Lime essential oil has been shown to fight cancer cells in general. Lime juice has also been shown in vitro to specifically target pancreatic cancer cells — among the most painful and difficult cancers to treat. Breast cancer cells are also destroyed by components present in lime essential oil.
Cancer fighting. Lime essential oil has been shown to fight cancer cells in general. Lime juice has also been shown in vitro to specifically target pancreatic cancer cells — among the most painful and difficult cancers to treat. Breast cancer cells are also destroyed by components present in lime essential oil.
HOW WERE LIMES USED IN HISTORY?
Click here tLimes were used throughout history in a variety of ways. It's interesting to look back and see how the benefits of lime essential oil were hinted at throughout historic uses! While they used lime fruit because of the lack of modern distilling methods, it's a fun peek nonetheless.
The original vitamin C supplement? British explorers frequently carried limes aboard ship to prevent scurvy. All citrus fruits are well known to protect against this unpleasant, but completely preventable disease. Some captains are said to have felt so strongly about the necessity of preventing scurvy that they ordered every crew member to eat a lime, including a bite of the peel on a fixed schedule. Most of a lime’s volatile oils and vitamin C are in the peel, so this was a wise practice.
Dried lime. People in semi-tropical climates have long relied upon this food preservative and flavoring to help prevent food borne pathogens long before refrigeration was available. Whole limes were kiln- or oven- dried, then broken and crumbled onto meat as needed.
Dried lime has also been simmered in oil warmers for house blessing— this may have been the ancient precursor to modern essential oil diffusers. Lime is still used effectively to preserve food and to brighten the energy in our homes.
Preserved lime. Crushed in a jar with salt and left to naturally ferment, or pickle itself, lactic acid preserved limes and lemons were probably the first foods ever cultured specifically for their probiotic benefits. When traditionally prepared by this method, limes (and lemons) and their peels lose their sharp bitter bite.
The flavors meld with the fruit into a slightly salty, mellow, sweet-tart condiment that is still popular worldwide today. Who knew citrus fruit could provide your daily dose of good bacteria?
Natural insecticide. Lime essence makes a note-worthy insecticide—it successfully kills the vermin responsible for grain damage among others, such as mosquitoes. When properly diluted and applied, steam distilled lime essential oil may be a good tool in your insect repellent arsenal.
The original vitamin C supplement? British explorers frequently carried limes aboard ship to prevent scurvy. All citrus fruits are well known to protect against this unpleasant, but completely preventable disease. Some captains are said to have felt so strongly about the necessity of preventing scurvy that they ordered every crew member to eat a lime, including a bite of the peel on a fixed schedule. Most of a lime’s volatile oils and vitamin C are in the peel, so this was a wise practice.
Dried lime. People in semi-tropical climates have long relied upon this food preservative and flavoring to help prevent food borne pathogens long before refrigeration was available. Whole limes were kiln- or oven- dried, then broken and crumbled onto meat as needed.
Dried lime has also been simmered in oil warmers for house blessing— this may have been the ancient precursor to modern essential oil diffusers. Lime is still used effectively to preserve food and to brighten the energy in our homes.
Preserved lime. Crushed in a jar with salt and left to naturally ferment, or pickle itself, lactic acid preserved limes and lemons were probably the first foods ever cultured specifically for their probiotic benefits. When traditionally prepared by this method, limes (and lemons) and their peels lose their sharp bitter bite.
The flavors meld with the fruit into a slightly salty, mellow, sweet-tart condiment that is still popular worldwide today. Who knew citrus fruit could provide your daily dose of good bacteria?
Natural insecticide. Lime essence makes a note-worthy insecticide—it successfully kills the vermin responsible for grain damage among others, such as mosquitoes. When properly diluted and applied, steam distilled lime essential oil may be a good tool in your insect repellent arsenal.
IS THERE A DOWNSIDE TO LIME?
With all the remarkable and almost unbelievable applications for lime essential oil to improve your health, home, and life, you may rightly wonder whether there is any downside to using lime oil.
There is a lot of buzz in the essential oil world regarding photosensitivity of skin after using citrus oils. It is true that expressed/pressed citrus oils can cause you to be very susceptible to sunburn for hours after application, and they are really only appropriate for products that are well diluted, used in the evening, and washed off in the morning (or that are used on completely unexposed skin).
So, there is no downside at all? Actually, there is one caveat. Here, kitty, kitty.
Some cats may be extremely sensitive to essential oils—especially citrus essential oils such as lime or key lime. See more about our recommendations for using essential oils for animals in this post with Dr Janet Roark.
The GRAS is always greener… the GRAS designation means that upon inspection for safety, a product or ingredient is Generally Recognized As Safe. Steam distilled, fresh lime essential oil received the GRAS designation, such as the exclusive non-GMO certified GRAS hyper-organic ingestible Vitality Line from Young Living.
Remember, dilute essential oils appropriately for maximum safety. xo, AP
There is a lot of buzz in the essential oil world regarding photosensitivity of skin after using citrus oils. It is true that expressed/pressed citrus oils can cause you to be very susceptible to sunburn for hours after application, and they are really only appropriate for products that are well diluted, used in the evening, and washed off in the morning (or that are used on completely unexposed skin).
So, there is no downside at all? Actually, there is one caveat. Here, kitty, kitty.
Some cats may be extremely sensitive to essential oils—especially citrus essential oils such as lime or key lime. See more about our recommendations for using essential oils for animals in this post with Dr Janet Roark.
The GRAS is always greener… the GRAS designation means that upon inspection for safety, a product or ingredient is Generally Recognized As Safe. Steam distilled, fresh lime essential oil received the GRAS designation, such as the exclusive non-GMO certified GRAS hyper-organic ingestible Vitality Line from Young Living.
Remember, dilute essential oils appropriately for maximum safety. xo, AP
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This is where we all start, with the foundational kit of oils that every single individual and family needs and can use. The 2019 Premium Starter Kit includes 12 full bottles of therapeutic essential oils + a FREE Dessert Mist Diffuser + a membership where you get 24% off any oils and products in the future (with option to take advantage of the the Wellness Subscription box for FREE monthly products and money back).
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PART 1: What is CBD and CBD Oil?
If you take a look at the news headlines, it’s easy to see just how much people are talking about cannabis, and this topic is far from being old news. In fact, the discussion about medicinal marijuana has recently started to include CBD products. Unfortunately, however, this discussion has turned more into a debate that is actually a tangled mess of myths, false claims, and actual facts, making it hard to know what is true and what isn’t.
As CBD has gained more and more attention across the nation, we recognize that many of our customers are interested in learning more about what CBD actually is and what it can do. To help you easily find answers to your questions, we have created an eleven-part series of blog posts.
During this series, we will cover some of the most frequently asked questions about CBD and provide essential information you won’t want to miss. Here’s what you can expect to learn in this big 'ol blog post:
What is CBD and CBD oil?
What is the difference between THC and CBD?
What is the difference between hemp, cannabis, and marijuana?
What is Broad-Spectrum CBD?
How does CBD work in the body?
CBD and Terpenes
What are the health benefits of CBD?
CBD for mental and emotional health
Choosing a good CBD oil
Let’s get started!
What is CBD?
CBD stands for cannabidiol, which is a chemical compound found in the cannabis plant. CBD is one of the many cannabinoids found in cannabis. Odds are you are familiar with the cannabinoid THC, which is the compound that produces the psychoactive, or “high”, effect in the drug marijuana. It is important to note, however, that while CBD is a cannabinoid like THC, it is not psychoactive and will not get you “high”. We will go more into this in part two of this series.
Cannabinoids Are Already In Your Body
Did you know that your body naturally produces its own cannabinoids similar to CBD? The cannabinoids that your body produces are called endocannabinoids, and they travel through the endocannabinoid system (ECS) to regulate just about everything in your body, from your mood to vital conditions.
Your endocannabinoid system has several cannabinoid receptors that interact with your body’s natural cannabinoids through chemical stimuli. This interaction helps regulate everything, including your mood, pain management, and appetite. If one or more of these normal functions gets unbalanced, your body will synthesize, or combine, the cannabinoids it needs in order to restore balance throughout the body.
What is CBD Oil?
CBD oil is the essential oil extracted from the hemp cannabis plant. It contains concentrated levels of the specific cannabinoid CBD, and a minimal or non-existent amount of THC.
Why Do We Need CBD Products or Supplements?
This is a great question! Although our bodies do naturally produce cannabinoids, there are cases where the body struggles to produce enough cannabinoids to restore complete balance, or homeostasis. Recent studies of this condition, called clinical endocannabinoid deficiency, have shown that lower levels of cannabinoids can cause people to become more susceptible to a wide range of ailments and diseases, including migraines, Alzheimer’s disease, and fibromyalgia.
When the body fails to produce the necessary amount of cannabinoids to create homeostasis, CBD products, like CBD oil, can help your body carry out its natural balancing process. We will dive more into just how CBD does this in part five.
What to expect in part two: What is the difference between THC and CBD?
As CBD has gained more and more attention across the nation, we recognize that many of our customers are interested in learning more about what CBD actually is and what it can do. To help you easily find answers to your questions, we have created an eleven-part series of blog posts.
During this series, we will cover some of the most frequently asked questions about CBD and provide essential information you won’t want to miss. Here’s what you can expect to learn in this big 'ol blog post:
What is CBD and CBD oil?
What is the difference between THC and CBD?
What is the difference between hemp, cannabis, and marijuana?
What is Broad-Spectrum CBD?
How does CBD work in the body?
CBD and Terpenes
What are the health benefits of CBD?
CBD for mental and emotional health
Choosing a good CBD oil
Let’s get started!
What is CBD?
CBD stands for cannabidiol, which is a chemical compound found in the cannabis plant. CBD is one of the many cannabinoids found in cannabis. Odds are you are familiar with the cannabinoid THC, which is the compound that produces the psychoactive, or “high”, effect in the drug marijuana. It is important to note, however, that while CBD is a cannabinoid like THC, it is not psychoactive and will not get you “high”. We will go more into this in part two of this series.
Cannabinoids Are Already In Your Body
Did you know that your body naturally produces its own cannabinoids similar to CBD? The cannabinoids that your body produces are called endocannabinoids, and they travel through the endocannabinoid system (ECS) to regulate just about everything in your body, from your mood to vital conditions.
Your endocannabinoid system has several cannabinoid receptors that interact with your body’s natural cannabinoids through chemical stimuli. This interaction helps regulate everything, including your mood, pain management, and appetite. If one or more of these normal functions gets unbalanced, your body will synthesize, or combine, the cannabinoids it needs in order to restore balance throughout the body.
What is CBD Oil?
CBD oil is the essential oil extracted from the hemp cannabis plant. It contains concentrated levels of the specific cannabinoid CBD, and a minimal or non-existent amount of THC.
Why Do We Need CBD Products or Supplements?
This is a great question! Although our bodies do naturally produce cannabinoids, there are cases where the body struggles to produce enough cannabinoids to restore complete balance, or homeostasis. Recent studies of this condition, called clinical endocannabinoid deficiency, have shown that lower levels of cannabinoids can cause people to become more susceptible to a wide range of ailments and diseases, including migraines, Alzheimer’s disease, and fibromyalgia.
When the body fails to produce the necessary amount of cannabinoids to create homeostasis, CBD products, like CBD oil, can help your body carry out its natural balancing process. We will dive more into just how CBD does this in part five.
What to expect in part two: What is the difference between THC and CBD?
PART 2: What is the difference between THC and CBD?
Many people are aware of THC and its effects on the human mind and body, particularly when consumed as marijuana. As CBD has come more into the spotlight, many people are associating CBD with the same effects as THC. While THC and CBD are similar, there are some significant differences that are important to understand.
What are THC and CBD?
Before we can discuss the differences between THC and CBD, we need to first understand what they are. THC stands for tetrahydrocannabinol, and CBD stands for cannabidiol. Both of these chemical compounds are two of the most popular cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant. While there are over 100 other cannabinoids in cannabis, they occur in such small amounts that they really don’t have much of an effect.
What makes THC and CBD so different?
The main difference between CBD and THC is how they interact with the body. Our bodies naturally produce their own cannabinoids called endocannabinoids, which move and interact with the body through the endocannabinoid system (ECS). In your endocannabinoid system, there are two main cannabinoid receptors: the CB1 receptor and CB2 receptor.
When consumed, THC molecules bind directly to your CB1 receptors, which are concentrated mostly in the brain. By binding to the receptors, THC activates the receptor, which stimulates the mind and body. This ultimately creates the famous mild-altering and “high” effects of marijuana.
CBD, on the other hand, does not bind directly to your body’s cannabinoid receptors. Instead, it influences your receptors indirectly through a process called modulation (the fluctuation of cells based on changes in their environment).
What are THC and CBD?
Before we can discuss the differences between THC and CBD, we need to first understand what they are. THC stands for tetrahydrocannabinol, and CBD stands for cannabidiol. Both of these chemical compounds are two of the most popular cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant. While there are over 100 other cannabinoids in cannabis, they occur in such small amounts that they really don’t have much of an effect.
What makes THC and CBD so different?
The main difference between CBD and THC is how they interact with the body. Our bodies naturally produce their own cannabinoids called endocannabinoids, which move and interact with the body through the endocannabinoid system (ECS). In your endocannabinoid system, there are two main cannabinoid receptors: the CB1 receptor and CB2 receptor.
When consumed, THC molecules bind directly to your CB1 receptors, which are concentrated mostly in the brain. By binding to the receptors, THC activates the receptor, which stimulates the mind and body. This ultimately creates the famous mild-altering and “high” effects of marijuana.
CBD, on the other hand, does not bind directly to your body’s cannabinoid receptors. Instead, it influences your receptors indirectly through a process called modulation (the fluctuation of cells based on changes in their environment).
*Photo Credit: https://www.leafscience.com/2017/11/22/thc-cbd-difference/
Because CBD does not directly bind to or activate your cannabinoid receptors, it does not cause any kind of “high” effect, unlike THC. Rather, CBD helps regulate the amount of endocannabinoids that your body naturally produces while also facilitating many health benefits, more of which we’ll discuss below and in part seven of this series.
In short, THC binds directly to your cannabinoid receptors, which overstimulates the mind and creates the “high” effect. CBD does not bind to your receptors and thus cannot change your state of mind.
Different Health Benefits of THC and CBD
Another main difference between THC and CBD is the health benefits they provide. While both cannabinoids are known to relieve pain and have multiple therapeutic benefits, there are also some major differences in how THC and CBD affect the body.
THC, especially when consumed as marijuana, is known to have a relaxing and euphoric effect. Consumers often experience heightened senses, a feeling of having no cares or worries, and muscle relaxation. This is all a result of the THC binding directly to the CB1 receptors in the brain and altering your state of mind.
CBD does not alter your state of mind, although it can help reduce feelings of anxiety. It also has a host of health benefits that affect more of your physical well-being. According to LeafScience, such benefits include protecting against seizures and convulsions, assisting with cancer prevention, and preventing inflammation. We will go more in depth on CBD’s health benefits in part seven of this series.
Even though THC and CBD are fairly similar, the important things to remember is that they really are quite different, and the most significant difference is that CBD will not alter your mental state or make you “hight” like THC will. That means you can get all of the health benefits of cannabis without any negative side effects.
What to expect in part three: what is the difference between hemp, cannabis, and marijuana?
Because CBD does not directly bind to or activate your cannabinoid receptors, it does not cause any kind of “high” effect, unlike THC. Rather, CBD helps regulate the amount of endocannabinoids that your body naturally produces while also facilitating many health benefits, more of which we’ll discuss below and in part seven of this series.
In short, THC binds directly to your cannabinoid receptors, which overstimulates the mind and creates the “high” effect. CBD does not bind to your receptors and thus cannot change your state of mind.
Different Health Benefits of THC and CBD
Another main difference between THC and CBD is the health benefits they provide. While both cannabinoids are known to relieve pain and have multiple therapeutic benefits, there are also some major differences in how THC and CBD affect the body.
THC, especially when consumed as marijuana, is known to have a relaxing and euphoric effect. Consumers often experience heightened senses, a feeling of having no cares or worries, and muscle relaxation. This is all a result of the THC binding directly to the CB1 receptors in the brain and altering your state of mind.
CBD does not alter your state of mind, although it can help reduce feelings of anxiety. It also has a host of health benefits that affect more of your physical well-being. According to LeafScience, such benefits include protecting against seizures and convulsions, assisting with cancer prevention, and preventing inflammation. We will go more in depth on CBD’s health benefits in part seven of this series.
Even though THC and CBD are fairly similar, the important things to remember is that they really are quite different, and the most significant difference is that CBD will not alter your mental state or make you “hight” like THC will. That means you can get all of the health benefits of cannabis without any negative side effects.
What to expect in part three: what is the difference between hemp, cannabis, and marijuana?
PART 3: What is the Difference Between Hemp, Cannabis, and Marijuana?
One of the greatest misunderstandings that leads to confusion in the debate about cannabis and CBD is the fact that cannabis and marijuana are the same thing. Then, people started throwing in the word hemp, and now just about everyone is lost. By clearing the air about the confusion between these three terms, our hope is to make it easier for you to decide if CBD products are right for you. So, let’s get to it!
What is Cannabis?
In short, quick terms, cannabis is simply a plant. More specifically, it is the plant that both hemp and marijuana come from. Cannabis is one of the oldest crops in the world with records of its use dating as far back as the 2,000s B.C.
Cannabis Species
Think back to your high school biology class. Do you remember that lesson you had about species, genus, and families within plant groups? If not, that’s alright. Here’s a little refresher: a genus is the generic name of a group of plants, and the species are specific types of that genus. Cannabis is the genus, or generic name, of a group of plants. Within the cannabis genus, there are several different species.
In 1753, botanist Carl Linnaeus classified and named the first species of cannabis as sativa. 30 years later in 1783, naturalist Jean-Baptiste Lamarck found a different species of cannabis, which he named indica. While these two are the most commonly known species of cannabis, there are others, but they do not contain the same levels of cannabinoids as sativa and indica to be of much interest in the debate about CBD and THC.
The reason we bring up the cannabis species is because there is a lot of confusing information about the difference between sativa and indica. Traditionally, Cannabis indica has been classified as a sedative that provides more relaxing effects, and it is associated as the plant that gives you the common “high” effects due to its higher levels of THC. This plant is shorter and stockier with fatter, fan-like leaves. Basically, this is the species of cannabis that we see the most pictures of when we see cannabis products and dispensaries.
On the other hand, Cannabis sativa is known as a stimulant that results in greater alertness, euphoria, and increased energy. This tall, skinny plant has thinner, finger-like leaves, and is higher in CBD than the indica species.
What is Cannabis?
In short, quick terms, cannabis is simply a plant. More specifically, it is the plant that both hemp and marijuana come from. Cannabis is one of the oldest crops in the world with records of its use dating as far back as the 2,000s B.C.
Cannabis Species
Think back to your high school biology class. Do you remember that lesson you had about species, genus, and families within plant groups? If not, that’s alright. Here’s a little refresher: a genus is the generic name of a group of plants, and the species are specific types of that genus. Cannabis is the genus, or generic name, of a group of plants. Within the cannabis genus, there are several different species.
In 1753, botanist Carl Linnaeus classified and named the first species of cannabis as sativa. 30 years later in 1783, naturalist Jean-Baptiste Lamarck found a different species of cannabis, which he named indica. While these two are the most commonly known species of cannabis, there are others, but they do not contain the same levels of cannabinoids as sativa and indica to be of much interest in the debate about CBD and THC.
The reason we bring up the cannabis species is because there is a lot of confusing information about the difference between sativa and indica. Traditionally, Cannabis indica has been classified as a sedative that provides more relaxing effects, and it is associated as the plant that gives you the common “high” effects due to its higher levels of THC. This plant is shorter and stockier with fatter, fan-like leaves. Basically, this is the species of cannabis that we see the most pictures of when we see cannabis products and dispensaries.
On the other hand, Cannabis sativa is known as a stimulant that results in greater alertness, euphoria, and increased energy. This tall, skinny plant has thinner, finger-like leaves, and is higher in CBD than the indica species.
| Cannabis Crossbreeding Now that you know that one species of cannabis is higher in THC and the other is higher in CBD, you’d imagine that related products would come from their respective plants, right? Well, it’s not quite that simple. |  |
Both Cannabis indica and Cannabis sativa naturally contain levels of both THC and CBD, even if they are higher in one than the other. Today, most extracts in the U.S. come from the sativa species, which is higher in CBD. However, cultivators have spread their breeding to include both sativa and indica in order to create a product with their desired results.
Here’s how it works: because sativa is naturally higher in CBD, those who want to create CBD products don’t have to modify too much of the sativa plant in order to get the results they want. However, in order to ensure that products are safe and contain minimal or no levels of THC, cultivators can crossbreed and modify the plant to create specific strains.
Now, what about marijuana and products with high levels of THC? Whether a supplier or farmer chooses to grow sativa or indica species of cannabis, marijuana almost always comes from crossbred and modified strains of either species. This selective breeding allows farmers to produce plants that contain higher levels of THC so that they and their customers can get the results they want.
In the end, cultivators, farmers, and suppliers of any type of cannabis often take the best qualities of both the sativa and indica species to get the specific strains and results they want. This can include products that are 50% CBD and 50% THC, or dominant in either CBD or THC. In today’s world, it is rare to get products that com from an unaltered sativa or indica plant.
Now, keep in mind that even though most THC and CBD products come from hybrid plants, these products are by no means less natural than if you were to eat the plant directly. Hybrids and crossbreed often come from using the natural parts of the different cannabis species. In short, you can still find products that have been modified but are still 100% natural.
The Difference Between Hemp and Marijuana
Now that you know all about cannabis and its most common species, let’s get into the difference between hemp and marijuana. Both hemp and marijuana are cannabis in the fact that they both come from the cannabis plant. But, that’s about where the similarities end.
What is Hemp?
Hemp comes from the Cannabis sativa species of the cannabis plant, which is taller and contains fewer leaves. The fibers from the sativa plant stalks are often used industrially to create rope, clothes, paper, clothing, biofuels, bioplastics, cosmetics, dietary supplements, foods, and more.
Hemp is defined as the generic strains of the cannabis plant that are higher in CBD. It is industrial and non-intoxicating. While sativa is naturally higher in CBD, hemp products can be modified to ensure that they contain .3% or less of THC, which is the legal requirement. Hemp products will not make you “high”, but they can provide you with the medicinal benefits you may need, more of which we’ll discuss in part seven of our CBD series.
What is Marijuana?
Marijuana can come from either the sativa or indica species of the cannabis plant. However, it is important to note that no matter which species it comes from, marijuana is most often a hybrid strain of cannabis. These crossbred strains come from controlled growing conditions to produce plants that contain the optimal amount of THC. Depending on the desired result, some crossbred marijuana strains can contain as much as 30% THC.
Marijuana comes from the dried flowers, stems, leaves, and seeds of the cannabis plant, and it is the most commonly used illicit drug in the United States. Because of its high THC levels, marijuana will give you a “high” effect that alters your senses, changes your mood, relaxes your muscles, and can even cause hallucinations or delusions. If used long-term, marijuana can hinder the way your brain communicates between the areas in the brain used for memories, learning, and thinking. Using marijuana can also lead to several major health issues, including breathing problems, heart problems, hindered child development during and after pregnancy, intense vomiting and nausea, paranoia, and increased depression or anxiety.
Summary
We know that was a lot of information, so let’s take a moment to sum everything up:
Cannabis is a group of plants. Both hemp and marijuana come from cannabis. Cannabis has two main species that we use for CBD products and marijuana, namely Cannabis sativa and Cannabis indica. Sativa is higher in CBD, and indica is higher in THC; however, just about all marijuana or hemp (CBD) products come from some type of hybrid strain of one of these cannabis species. Hemp refers to products that are high in CBD and cannot get you high. Marijuana refers to the illegal drug that is modified to be higher in THC in order to give you the mind-altering “high” effect.
What to expect in part four: What is Broad-Spectrum CBD?
Here’s how it works: because sativa is naturally higher in CBD, those who want to create CBD products don’t have to modify too much of the sativa plant in order to get the results they want. However, in order to ensure that products are safe and contain minimal or no levels of THC, cultivators can crossbreed and modify the plant to create specific strains.
Now, what about marijuana and products with high levels of THC? Whether a supplier or farmer chooses to grow sativa or indica species of cannabis, marijuana almost always comes from crossbred and modified strains of either species. This selective breeding allows farmers to produce plants that contain higher levels of THC so that they and their customers can get the results they want.
In the end, cultivators, farmers, and suppliers of any type of cannabis often take the best qualities of both the sativa and indica species to get the specific strains and results they want. This can include products that are 50% CBD and 50% THC, or dominant in either CBD or THC. In today’s world, it is rare to get products that com from an unaltered sativa or indica plant.
Now, keep in mind that even though most THC and CBD products come from hybrid plants, these products are by no means less natural than if you were to eat the plant directly. Hybrids and crossbreed often come from using the natural parts of the different cannabis species. In short, you can still find products that have been modified but are still 100% natural.
The Difference Between Hemp and Marijuana
Now that you know all about cannabis and its most common species, let’s get into the difference between hemp and marijuana. Both hemp and marijuana are cannabis in the fact that they both come from the cannabis plant. But, that’s about where the similarities end.
What is Hemp?
Hemp comes from the Cannabis sativa species of the cannabis plant, which is taller and contains fewer leaves. The fibers from the sativa plant stalks are often used industrially to create rope, clothes, paper, clothing, biofuels, bioplastics, cosmetics, dietary supplements, foods, and more.
Hemp is defined as the generic strains of the cannabis plant that are higher in CBD. It is industrial and non-intoxicating. While sativa is naturally higher in CBD, hemp products can be modified to ensure that they contain .3% or less of THC, which is the legal requirement. Hemp products will not make you “high”, but they can provide you with the medicinal benefits you may need, more of which we’ll discuss in part seven of our CBD series.
What is Marijuana?
Marijuana can come from either the sativa or indica species of the cannabis plant. However, it is important to note that no matter which species it comes from, marijuana is most often a hybrid strain of cannabis. These crossbred strains come from controlled growing conditions to produce plants that contain the optimal amount of THC. Depending on the desired result, some crossbred marijuana strains can contain as much as 30% THC.
Marijuana comes from the dried flowers, stems, leaves, and seeds of the cannabis plant, and it is the most commonly used illicit drug in the United States. Because of its high THC levels, marijuana will give you a “high” effect that alters your senses, changes your mood, relaxes your muscles, and can even cause hallucinations or delusions. If used long-term, marijuana can hinder the way your brain communicates between the areas in the brain used for memories, learning, and thinking. Using marijuana can also lead to several major health issues, including breathing problems, heart problems, hindered child development during and after pregnancy, intense vomiting and nausea, paranoia, and increased depression or anxiety.
Summary
We know that was a lot of information, so let’s take a moment to sum everything up:
Cannabis is a group of plants. Both hemp and marijuana come from cannabis. Cannabis has two main species that we use for CBD products and marijuana, namely Cannabis sativa and Cannabis indica. Sativa is higher in CBD, and indica is higher in THC; however, just about all marijuana or hemp (CBD) products come from some type of hybrid strain of one of these cannabis species. Hemp refers to products that are high in CBD and cannot get you high. Marijuana refers to the illegal drug that is modified to be higher in THC in order to give you the mind-altering “high” effect.
What to expect in part four: What is Broad-Spectrum CBD?
PART 4: What is Broad-Spectrum CBD?
The CBD market is rapidly expanding, and the more you look into the various products that are available, the more you may notice that there are several products listed as CBD isolate, full-spectrum CBD, or broad-spectrum CBD.
These terms help separate different CBD products, but what exactly is the difference between them? In this part of our CBD series, we hope to make it a little easier to understand what broad-spectrum CBD is and how you can benefit from it.
What is Broad-Spectrum CBD?
Before we can understand what broad-spectrum CBD is, we need to first discuss the two main types of CBD products: isolate and full-spectrum.
CBD isolate is a product that contains nothing but 99.9% pure CBD. During the extraction process, manufacturers who make CBD isolate simply remove everything from the plant extract except for the CBD cannabinoid. This means that there are no other cannabinoid strains (including THC), terpenes, oils, waxes, and chlorophyll in the end product. Once the extraction process is complete, you are left with a fine white powder, which is the form that CBD takes once extracted. You can add this powder to just about anything, including tinctures, oils, and edibles to help you experience the benefits of CBD. However, because CBD isolate is only CBD, you won’t get any additional benefits that come from the other cannabinoids and compounds that are in the cannabis plant.
On the other end, full-spectrum CBD contains everything that is naturally found in the cannabis plant. Full-spectrum CBD products are full of natural terpenes, flavonoids, fatty acids, and cannabinoids, including THC. All of the various compounds in full-spectrum CBD products have their own therapeutic properties, which, when they work together, allow you to experience what is called the entourage effect. The entourage effect refers to when you get the benefits of all compounds working together instead of just a few working on their own, like what you’d get with CBD isolate. Although full-spectrum CBD contains THC, the amount of THC is naturally .3% or less, which is the legal and safe amount to ingest without experiencing the psychoactive effects of THC.
Broad-spectrum CBD is essentially the same as full-spectrum CBD, but without THC. This means that broad-spectrum CBD contains all of the naturally occurring flavonoids, terpenes, cannabinoids, fatty acids, and all other beneficial components within the cannabis plant, but has had the specific THC cannabinoid strain removed.
Choosing Between Isolate, Full-Spectrum, and Broad-Spectrum CBD
Each of these three types of CBD products offer their own benefits and can help address certain needs. Originally, people believed that CBD isolate would be more effective simply because it is pure CBD. However, in 2015, a study showed that full-spectrum CBD provides higher levels of relief, as well as longer-lasting relief. This can also be the case for broad-spectrum CBD because these two types of CBD are essentially the same, with the exception of their THC content.
Even though full-spectrum and broad-spectrum CBD may seem to be more effective, CBD isolate still has its place. CBD isolate is great for those who may not need all of the benefits of full-spectrum or broad-spectrum CBD.
In addition, CBD isolate and broad-spectrum CBD are great for those who cannot have THC in their system for legal purpose or drug tests, or for those who simply do not want to worry about ingesting THC. In you are in any of these situations, CBD isolate and broad-spectrum CBD may be for you simply because they do not contain any THC that can get into your system in the first place.
Benefits of Broad-Spectrum CBD
Because broad-spectrum CBD contains more than just CBD, you can get more benefits as the various components work together. Essentially, you get all of the benefits of full-spectrum CBD without the worry of ingesting the psychoactive cannabinoid THC. We will get more into the benefits of CBD and related products in part seven of our CBD series.
What to expect in part five: How does CBD work in the body?
These terms help separate different CBD products, but what exactly is the difference between them? In this part of our CBD series, we hope to make it a little easier to understand what broad-spectrum CBD is and how you can benefit from it.
What is Broad-Spectrum CBD?
Before we can understand what broad-spectrum CBD is, we need to first discuss the two main types of CBD products: isolate and full-spectrum.
CBD isolate is a product that contains nothing but 99.9% pure CBD. During the extraction process, manufacturers who make CBD isolate simply remove everything from the plant extract except for the CBD cannabinoid. This means that there are no other cannabinoid strains (including THC), terpenes, oils, waxes, and chlorophyll in the end product. Once the extraction process is complete, you are left with a fine white powder, which is the form that CBD takes once extracted. You can add this powder to just about anything, including tinctures, oils, and edibles to help you experience the benefits of CBD. However, because CBD isolate is only CBD, you won’t get any additional benefits that come from the other cannabinoids and compounds that are in the cannabis plant.
On the other end, full-spectrum CBD contains everything that is naturally found in the cannabis plant. Full-spectrum CBD products are full of natural terpenes, flavonoids, fatty acids, and cannabinoids, including THC. All of the various compounds in full-spectrum CBD products have their own therapeutic properties, which, when they work together, allow you to experience what is called the entourage effect. The entourage effect refers to when you get the benefits of all compounds working together instead of just a few working on their own, like what you’d get with CBD isolate. Although full-spectrum CBD contains THC, the amount of THC is naturally .3% or less, which is the legal and safe amount to ingest without experiencing the psychoactive effects of THC.
Broad-spectrum CBD is essentially the same as full-spectrum CBD, but without THC. This means that broad-spectrum CBD contains all of the naturally occurring flavonoids, terpenes, cannabinoids, fatty acids, and all other beneficial components within the cannabis plant, but has had the specific THC cannabinoid strain removed.
Choosing Between Isolate, Full-Spectrum, and Broad-Spectrum CBD
Each of these three types of CBD products offer their own benefits and can help address certain needs. Originally, people believed that CBD isolate would be more effective simply because it is pure CBD. However, in 2015, a study showed that full-spectrum CBD provides higher levels of relief, as well as longer-lasting relief. This can also be the case for broad-spectrum CBD because these two types of CBD are essentially the same, with the exception of their THC content.
Even though full-spectrum and broad-spectrum CBD may seem to be more effective, CBD isolate still has its place. CBD isolate is great for those who may not need all of the benefits of full-spectrum or broad-spectrum CBD.
In addition, CBD isolate and broad-spectrum CBD are great for those who cannot have THC in their system for legal purpose or drug tests, or for those who simply do not want to worry about ingesting THC. In you are in any of these situations, CBD isolate and broad-spectrum CBD may be for you simply because they do not contain any THC that can get into your system in the first place.
Benefits of Broad-Spectrum CBD
Because broad-spectrum CBD contains more than just CBD, you can get more benefits as the various components work together. Essentially, you get all of the benefits of full-spectrum CBD without the worry of ingesting the psychoactive cannabinoid THC. We will get more into the benefits of CBD and related products in part seven of our CBD series.
What to expect in part five: How does CBD work in the body?
Part 5: How Does CBD Work In The Body?
Through the first four articles in our CBD series, we’ve talked a lot about what CBD is, where it comes from, and some of its various forms. We know that CBD is a chemical compound called a cannabinoid, and it comes from the various strains of the cannabis plant, with the Cannabis sativa species being the naturally highest in CBD; however, we also know that in today’s world of advanced science, most CBD products come from hybrid strains of cannabis. In addition, we know that CBD provides many therapeutic benefits without the psychoactive effects of THC.
It’s great that we’ve established this base, but it doesn’t really mean much to us if we don’t understand how CBD actually works and interacts with our bodies. Today, we’re going to dive into the body’s inner systems to see just what happens when you ingest CBD.
The Body’s Natural Cannabinoid System
Did you know that the human body has its very own cannabinoid system? It’s true! This system, called the enodcannabinoid system (ECS), runs throughout your entire body and produces its own cannabinoids. Here’s how it works:
The ECS contains two main types of cannabinoid receptors: the CB1 receptor and CB2 receptor. Enzymes within the body create cannabinoids, which are called endocannabinoids. Endocannabinoids interact with the ECS through the CB1 and CB2 receptors. What happens is that the endocannabinoids in our bodies link together with the receptors, like a lock and key. This “linking” effect activates the receptors, triggering them to carry out a series of responses that your body needs for healthy and proper functioning.
What Does the ECS Do?
The purpose of the ECS is to help regulate homeostasis within the body. Homeostasis is when the body maintains a constant internal environment. Maintaining homeostasis happens on a cellular level in every tissue, organ, and system, and it occurs through the use of the two main ECS receptors. CB1 receptors are concentrated mainly in the brain and central nervous system, but you can also find them in the lungs, kidneys, liver, and other tissues. The CB2 receptors, on the other hand, are mostly found in the cells that are associated with the immune system.
It’s great that we’ve established this base, but it doesn’t really mean much to us if we don’t understand how CBD actually works and interacts with our bodies. Today, we’re going to dive into the body’s inner systems to see just what happens when you ingest CBD.
The Body’s Natural Cannabinoid System
Did you know that the human body has its very own cannabinoid system? It’s true! This system, called the enodcannabinoid system (ECS), runs throughout your entire body and produces its own cannabinoids. Here’s how it works:
The ECS contains two main types of cannabinoid receptors: the CB1 receptor and CB2 receptor. Enzymes within the body create cannabinoids, which are called endocannabinoids. Endocannabinoids interact with the ECS through the CB1 and CB2 receptors. What happens is that the endocannabinoids in our bodies link together with the receptors, like a lock and key. This “linking” effect activates the receptors, triggering them to carry out a series of responses that your body needs for healthy and proper functioning.
What Does the ECS Do?
The purpose of the ECS is to help regulate homeostasis within the body. Homeostasis is when the body maintains a constant internal environment. Maintaining homeostasis happens on a cellular level in every tissue, organ, and system, and it occurs through the use of the two main ECS receptors. CB1 receptors are concentrated mainly in the brain and central nervous system, but you can also find them in the lungs, kidneys, liver, and other tissues. The CB2 receptors, on the other hand, are mostly found in the cells that are associated with the immune system.
Because the CB1 receptors are mostly in the brain and nervous system, they work to regulate more cognitive and mind-body processes, such as coordination and movement, appetite, mood, thinking, memories, pain management, and more. The CB2 receptors work more as a response to illness, and as a way to help the body avoid oxidative damage (the damage caused to cells and tissue when they can’t control the production of free radicals). Together, these two receptors help keep everything regulated within the body.
When a problem arises in the body, such as imbalanced pH or glucose levels, rising body temperature, cognitive issues, and illness, the body starts producing the necessary endocannabinoids. These endocannabinoids will then activate the appropriate ECS receptors and trigger the body’s natural responses to restore homeostasis.
If We Have The ECS, Why Do We Need CBD?
Great question! While our bodies are great at maintaining homeostasis, many of us begin to experience problems when our bodies do not produce enough endocannabinoids to achieve full homeostasis, or to properly maintain it. This condition, called clinical endocannabinoid deficiency, is suspected to be an underlying cause of several health and mental conditions. When the body’s ECS does not function properly, the internal systems cannot remain regulated, which makes it easier for illness and disease to arise.
In various studies, scientists have determined that an endocannabinoid deficiency may lead to the development of migraines, irritable bowel syndrome, fibromyalgia, Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and more. With the possibility of these and other issues arising from an endocannabinoid deficiency, it is so important that we make sure our ECS functions properly.
How CBD Helps Your Endocannabinoid System
When you have an endocannabinoid deficiency, or if your ECS isn’t working properly in some other way, a great way to support your ECS and restore homeostasis is to take cannabinoid supplements. CBD is an excellent cannabinoid supplement because it doesn’t just replace missing cannabinoids like traditional supplements. Instead, it supports and encourages your body’s ECS to work properly on its own.
When ingested, CBD works with your body’s CB1 and CB2 receptors to relieve endocannabinoid deficiency-related symptoms. Originally, scientists believed that CBD attaches directly to your ECS receptors; however, more recent studies show that CBD doesn’t do that. Instead, CBD influences your receptors indirectly, helping the body use more of its own endocannabinoids. In addition, CBD stops the enzyme that breaks down endocannabinoids. As a result, CBD helps to naturally increase your body’s endocannabinoid levels and relieve symptoms caused by an endocannabinoid deficiency.
But CBD doesn’t stop there. Studies show that CBD also interacts with several non-CBD receptors, including your dopamine and opioid receptors, which help regulate mood, cognition, and behavior; the TRPV-1 receptor, which helps moderate pain, inflammation, and body temperature; the GPR55 receptor, which helps reduce cancer cells; the PPAR receptor, which can help reduce the possibility of developing Alzheimer’s disease; and your 5-HT1A serotonin receptor, which can help reduce nausea and vomiting, addiction, pain, anxiety, and sleep disorders.
A Note About How THC Affects the ECS
Many are aware that both CBD and THC provide a variety of therapeutic benefits; however, THC also has a psychoactive side effect. This happens because THC physically attaches to the CB1 receptors in the brain. This direct interaction over stimulates the ECS receptors and interferes with the body’s natural ability to create homeostasis. Because your CB1 receptors regulate appetite, cognition, motor skills, memory, mood, and other mental processes, the over stimulation of the receptors can cause each of these processes to also become over stimulated and impaired.
Because CBD does not directly attach to your ECS receptors, but instead works with your body’s natural endocannabinoid-producing system, you can experience the therapeutic benefits without the psychoactive and over-stimulated effects that THC causes.
What to expect in part six: CBD and Terpenes
When a problem arises in the body, such as imbalanced pH or glucose levels, rising body temperature, cognitive issues, and illness, the body starts producing the necessary endocannabinoids. These endocannabinoids will then activate the appropriate ECS receptors and trigger the body’s natural responses to restore homeostasis.
If We Have The ECS, Why Do We Need CBD?
Great question! While our bodies are great at maintaining homeostasis, many of us begin to experience problems when our bodies do not produce enough endocannabinoids to achieve full homeostasis, or to properly maintain it. This condition, called clinical endocannabinoid deficiency, is suspected to be an underlying cause of several health and mental conditions. When the body’s ECS does not function properly, the internal systems cannot remain regulated, which makes it easier for illness and disease to arise.
In various studies, scientists have determined that an endocannabinoid deficiency may lead to the development of migraines, irritable bowel syndrome, fibromyalgia, Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and more. With the possibility of these and other issues arising from an endocannabinoid deficiency, it is so important that we make sure our ECS functions properly.
How CBD Helps Your Endocannabinoid System
When you have an endocannabinoid deficiency, or if your ECS isn’t working properly in some other way, a great way to support your ECS and restore homeostasis is to take cannabinoid supplements. CBD is an excellent cannabinoid supplement because it doesn’t just replace missing cannabinoids like traditional supplements. Instead, it supports and encourages your body’s ECS to work properly on its own.
When ingested, CBD works with your body’s CB1 and CB2 receptors to relieve endocannabinoid deficiency-related symptoms. Originally, scientists believed that CBD attaches directly to your ECS receptors; however, more recent studies show that CBD doesn’t do that. Instead, CBD influences your receptors indirectly, helping the body use more of its own endocannabinoids. In addition, CBD stops the enzyme that breaks down endocannabinoids. As a result, CBD helps to naturally increase your body’s endocannabinoid levels and relieve symptoms caused by an endocannabinoid deficiency.
But CBD doesn’t stop there. Studies show that CBD also interacts with several non-CBD receptors, including your dopamine and opioid receptors, which help regulate mood, cognition, and behavior; the TRPV-1 receptor, which helps moderate pain, inflammation, and body temperature; the GPR55 receptor, which helps reduce cancer cells; the PPAR receptor, which can help reduce the possibility of developing Alzheimer’s disease; and your 5-HT1A serotonin receptor, which can help reduce nausea and vomiting, addiction, pain, anxiety, and sleep disorders.
A Note About How THC Affects the ECS
Many are aware that both CBD and THC provide a variety of therapeutic benefits; however, THC also has a psychoactive side effect. This happens because THC physically attaches to the CB1 receptors in the brain. This direct interaction over stimulates the ECS receptors and interferes with the body’s natural ability to create homeostasis. Because your CB1 receptors regulate appetite, cognition, motor skills, memory, mood, and other mental processes, the over stimulation of the receptors can cause each of these processes to also become over stimulated and impaired.
Because CBD does not directly attach to your ECS receptors, but instead works with your body’s natural endocannabinoid-producing system, you can experience the therapeutic benefits without the psychoactive and over-stimulated effects that THC causes.
What to expect in part six: CBD and Terpenes
PART 6: CBD and Terpenes
When you walk by a flower bush or open a carton of fresh blueberries, you’ll get a whiff of distinct floral or fruity smells. Every plant around us, whether a tree, flower, fruit, vegetable, or herb, has a distinct smell, and it becomes easy for us to identify these plants simply by that smell.
The same goes for cannabis plants. Each variety of cannabis has its own distinct smell, just like different varieties of lavender or tulips have different and distinct smells. And the thing that gives each plant its own smell are the terpenes inside of it.
But terpenes do so much more than just make a plant smell nice (or not smell nice, if you’re the corpse flower). They also offer several therapeutic benefits, especially when they combine with cannabinoids, like those found in CBD oil. Today, we’re taking a closer look at what terpenes are and how they can enhance the benefits of CBD oil.
What are Terpenes?
Terpenes are molecules found in plants that produce a variety of different smells and flavors. Each plant has several different kinds of terpenes, but usually only a few dominate. These unique smells and flavors are designed to protect the plant and help it survive. For example, if an herbivore comes and starts eating a plant, that plant can respond by sending out certain terpenes, or a smell, that attracts carnivores to its herbivore enemy. When a plant is ready to be pollinated, it can produce different terpenes, or smells, that attract pollinators like bees and butterflies. Pretty neat, right?
If you're familiar with therpatic essential oils then you've most likely heard of terpenes before. Especially in the highest known-terpene oil in the world, Copaiba.
You will find terpenes in every plant, but you can also find them in many of today’s industrial products. Many companies use terpenes as fragrances, flavorings, or spices in their products, including cosmetics and perfumes.
Terpenes in Cannabis
In the cannabis plant specifically, there are over 100 different terpenes, each with its own unique flavor and smell. Of course, we only smell or taste the predominant terpenes, and each cannabis species (and ever other plant, for that matter) has varying strains and ratios of predominant and subdominant terpenes. This makes it so that every plant species has a different smell and taste, even if it similar to a related species. That’s why, in the earlier days, people could tell the difference between the sativa and indica species simply by the smell and taste of the plant.
Terpenes gather inside of trichomes, which are the tiny hairs on cannabis flowers that give the buds their frosty look. These trichomes, or glands, are also where the cannabis plant produces CBD, THC, and other cannabinoids. Generally, terpenes are more concentrated in the flowers of unfertilized female cannabis plants, before the flowers undergo senescence (the process in which they age). As terpenes become more concentrated, they form an oil in the glands, which the plant can secrete as needed.
Terpenes in CBD Oil
Because terpenes create an oil in the cannabis flower, the essential oil from cannabis plants is essentially just the plant’s terpene profile – with the cannabinoids that are also in the glands. This means that once the essential CBD oil is extracted from the plant and bottled, the oil also contains the terpenes that were in the same glands (that is, if the terpenes aren’t removed from the oil after the extraction process).
Some people may think that CBD oil with terpenes is not “pure” CBD oil, but in reality, it is because all of the components in the oil came directly from the plant itself. Not only that, but having terpenes in your CBD oil can actually help enhance the benefits that CBD oil can provide.
Benefits of Terpenes
Terpenes work similar to and with the cannabinoids inside of the body, both those that your body produces naturally and those you ingest, like with CBD oil. This synergy between terpenes and cannabinoids creates what is called the “entourage effect”. In essence, the “entourage effect” is the process that both terpenes and cannabinoids bind to receptors and work together to enhance the therapeutic properties of both compounds. Basically, you get better results as the parts work together than you would if they were separate.
Although there are over one hundred different terpenes in cannabis plants, there are a few specific ones that tend to be more dominant than the others, and these terpenes bring new therapeutic benefits while also enhancing those of CBD. Let’s take a look at just a few of these dominant terpenes:
Myrcene: This terpene is commonly found in plants that are highly aromatic, such as mangoes, bay laurel, and basil. It provides a calming, sedative effect. It helps ease physical discomfort and lowers internal swelling.
Limonene: Found mostly in citrus fruits, this terpene can boost your mood, increase your mental focus, and reduce stress. Limonene can also help keep your body free of dangerous and harmful cells.
Pinene: As you may guess by the name, you can find this terpene in pine trees, as well as in some herbs, such as parsley and dill. Pinene helps ease inflammation and can promote better breathing. It can also help boost your mood and improve concentration.
Linalool: This terpene provides the typical fresh flower scent, and it has a great calming effect. It helps reduce stress and nervousness while also soothing muscle tension or spasms.
Terpenes and Cannabinoids Working Together
When terpenes and cannabinoids, like CBD, work together, you can experience enhanced therapeutic benefits.
Some of those benefits include:
We will get more into how CBD oil can benefit your body in part seven of this post.
The same goes for cannabis plants. Each variety of cannabis has its own distinct smell, just like different varieties of lavender or tulips have different and distinct smells. And the thing that gives each plant its own smell are the terpenes inside of it.
But terpenes do so much more than just make a plant smell nice (or not smell nice, if you’re the corpse flower). They also offer several therapeutic benefits, especially when they combine with cannabinoids, like those found in CBD oil. Today, we’re taking a closer look at what terpenes are and how they can enhance the benefits of CBD oil.
What are Terpenes?
Terpenes are molecules found in plants that produce a variety of different smells and flavors. Each plant has several different kinds of terpenes, but usually only a few dominate. These unique smells and flavors are designed to protect the plant and help it survive. For example, if an herbivore comes and starts eating a plant, that plant can respond by sending out certain terpenes, or a smell, that attracts carnivores to its herbivore enemy. When a plant is ready to be pollinated, it can produce different terpenes, or smells, that attract pollinators like bees and butterflies. Pretty neat, right?
If you're familiar with therpatic essential oils then you've most likely heard of terpenes before. Especially in the highest known-terpene oil in the world, Copaiba.
You will find terpenes in every plant, but you can also find them in many of today’s industrial products. Many companies use terpenes as fragrances, flavorings, or spices in their products, including cosmetics and perfumes.
Terpenes in Cannabis
In the cannabis plant specifically, there are over 100 different terpenes, each with its own unique flavor and smell. Of course, we only smell or taste the predominant terpenes, and each cannabis species (and ever other plant, for that matter) has varying strains and ratios of predominant and subdominant terpenes. This makes it so that every plant species has a different smell and taste, even if it similar to a related species. That’s why, in the earlier days, people could tell the difference between the sativa and indica species simply by the smell and taste of the plant.
Terpenes gather inside of trichomes, which are the tiny hairs on cannabis flowers that give the buds their frosty look. These trichomes, or glands, are also where the cannabis plant produces CBD, THC, and other cannabinoids. Generally, terpenes are more concentrated in the flowers of unfertilized female cannabis plants, before the flowers undergo senescence (the process in which they age). As terpenes become more concentrated, they form an oil in the glands, which the plant can secrete as needed.
Terpenes in CBD Oil
Because terpenes create an oil in the cannabis flower, the essential oil from cannabis plants is essentially just the plant’s terpene profile – with the cannabinoids that are also in the glands. This means that once the essential CBD oil is extracted from the plant and bottled, the oil also contains the terpenes that were in the same glands (that is, if the terpenes aren’t removed from the oil after the extraction process).
Some people may think that CBD oil with terpenes is not “pure” CBD oil, but in reality, it is because all of the components in the oil came directly from the plant itself. Not only that, but having terpenes in your CBD oil can actually help enhance the benefits that CBD oil can provide.
Benefits of Terpenes
Terpenes work similar to and with the cannabinoids inside of the body, both those that your body produces naturally and those you ingest, like with CBD oil. This synergy between terpenes and cannabinoids creates what is called the “entourage effect”. In essence, the “entourage effect” is the process that both terpenes and cannabinoids bind to receptors and work together to enhance the therapeutic properties of both compounds. Basically, you get better results as the parts work together than you would if they were separate.
Although there are over one hundred different terpenes in cannabis plants, there are a few specific ones that tend to be more dominant than the others, and these terpenes bring new therapeutic benefits while also enhancing those of CBD. Let’s take a look at just a few of these dominant terpenes:
Myrcene: This terpene is commonly found in plants that are highly aromatic, such as mangoes, bay laurel, and basil. It provides a calming, sedative effect. It helps ease physical discomfort and lowers internal swelling.
Limonene: Found mostly in citrus fruits, this terpene can boost your mood, increase your mental focus, and reduce stress. Limonene can also help keep your body free of dangerous and harmful cells.
Pinene: As you may guess by the name, you can find this terpene in pine trees, as well as in some herbs, such as parsley and dill. Pinene helps ease inflammation and can promote better breathing. It can also help boost your mood and improve concentration.
Linalool: This terpene provides the typical fresh flower scent, and it has a great calming effect. It helps reduce stress and nervousness while also soothing muscle tension or spasms.
Terpenes and Cannabinoids Working Together
When terpenes and cannabinoids, like CBD, work together, you can experience enhanced therapeutic benefits.
Some of those benefits include:
- Greater dopamine activity
- Increased serotonin activity
- Increased control on how much THC crosses the brain-blood barrier
- Increased blood flow
- Enhanced activity in the cerebral cortex
We will get more into how CBD oil can benefit your body in part seven of this post.
PART 7: Health Benefits of CBD
In the previous sections we’ve been talking a lot about CBD: what it is, how it works in the body, the difference between it and THC, and more. All of this is important, but what exactly can CBD do to improve your health?
Well, as we’ve discussed in our previous sections, we’ve learned that CBD really does have an effect on the brain and body as it works with your body’s natural cannabinoids. As a result, CBD can have a host of remedial benefits. Let’s take a closer look at some of the things CBD can help with.
Health Benefits
CBD Benefits for Emotional and Mental Health
As we mentioned in part five, CBD doesn’t just interact with your body’s cannabinoid receptors; it also interacts with several other receptors in the brain. Some of these include dopamine and serotonin receptors, which makes it so that CBD can have the same relaxing and uplifting effects as antidepressant medications. As a result, CBD can help you maintain balanced, calm, and positive emotions. We will dive more into how CBD can help with these and other mental health conditions in our next post.
CBD for Overall Physical Health
Some of the most common uses for CBD is to improve overall health. Whether they use it to just get through the day or to help treat a pre-existing condition, many people vouch for CBD. Among the many things that people have said CBD can do for your health, these are some of the most common ways that CBD can help improve physical well-being:
In addition to these benefits, some doctors and scientists have performed various studies on how CBD oil can help reduce seizures in those who suffer from epilepsy. In fact, the FDA has approved at least two CBD oil products for treating epilepsy.
CBD for Sleep
CBD oil and other CBD products have a great relaxing effect on both the mind and body. This is great for those who struggle to fall asleep or stay asleep. For those who struggle to sleep due to anxiety and an overactive mind, CBD can help calm the mind to promote more regular sleep cycles.
In smaller doses, CBD can also help keep you alert and avoid daytime drowsiness. This can help you have the energy you need throughout the day, so you don’t have to take afternoon naps. As a result, you can have a more regulated and natural sleep-wake cycle.
CBD for Beauty
Did you know that many people use CBD products to enhance their daily skincare and beauty routines? CBD is great for treating skin blemishes. It also helps reduce the appearance of red or itchy skin, so you can walk out of your home with confidence!
CBD oil is also full of other natural compounds, including omegas. Omega-3 in particular is great for strengthening and moisturizing hair, and coaxing out its natural shine.
Side Effects of CBD
CBD does have side effects, just like any other form of medicine, but CBD’s side effects are minimal and mild compared to mainstream drugs. Plus, CBD is not addictive, which is extremely important and appealing, especially when you need to take regular doses of addictive pharmaceutical medications, such as opioids and other painkillers.
When using any oil or product that contains CBD, you may experience some nausea, fatigue, and/or sleepiness. However, CBD provides a host of positive side effects at the same time, including the benefits we’ve already talked about. The best way that you can experience these benefits is by choosing a high-quality product that uses pure CBD oil.
Finding the Right Dosage to Achieve CBD Health Benefits
Although there are countless people who have discovered the health benefits for CBD for themselves, many doctors worry that there are not enough studies to confirm all of CBD’s health benefits or the proper dosage to achieve those desired results. Doctors cannot deny that some people experience greatly improved health as a result of using CBD products, but we also can’t ignore the limited number of studies.
As with any kind of medication, CBD will affect everyone a little differently, and everyone will need to test different dosages until they find the right amount of CBD that works for them. Due to limited studies on proper dosage amount, many doctors recommend starting at a low dosage (1-20mg) and see what that does for you over the course of one week. If you don’t notice any of the benefits after that first week, you can adjust your dosage by 5-10mg for the next week, and so on until you find the right dosage for you. Be sure to consult with your physician as you adjust your dosage. For basic dosage guidelines, check out this website.
What to expect in part eight: CBD for Mental and Emotional Health
Well, as we’ve discussed in our previous sections, we’ve learned that CBD really does have an effect on the brain and body as it works with your body’s natural cannabinoids. As a result, CBD can have a host of remedial benefits. Let’s take a closer look at some of the things CBD can help with.
Health Benefits
CBD Benefits for Emotional and Mental Health
As we mentioned in part five, CBD doesn’t just interact with your body’s cannabinoid receptors; it also interacts with several other receptors in the brain. Some of these include dopamine and serotonin receptors, which makes it so that CBD can have the same relaxing and uplifting effects as antidepressant medications. As a result, CBD can help you maintain balanced, calm, and positive emotions. We will dive more into how CBD can help with these and other mental health conditions in our next post.
CBD for Overall Physical Health
Some of the most common uses for CBD is to improve overall health. Whether they use it to just get through the day or to help treat a pre-existing condition, many people vouch for CBD. Among the many things that people have said CBD can do for your health, these are some of the most common ways that CBD can help improve physical well-being:
- Decreases both internal and external swelling
- Aids in proper digestion
- Eases muscle soreness and tension
- Alleviates headaches and migraines
- Supports proper immune system function
- Aids in maintaining normal blood sugar
- Supports proper joint movement and fluidity
In addition to these benefits, some doctors and scientists have performed various studies on how CBD oil can help reduce seizures in those who suffer from epilepsy. In fact, the FDA has approved at least two CBD oil products for treating epilepsy.
CBD for Sleep
CBD oil and other CBD products have a great relaxing effect on both the mind and body. This is great for those who struggle to fall asleep or stay asleep. For those who struggle to sleep due to anxiety and an overactive mind, CBD can help calm the mind to promote more regular sleep cycles.
In smaller doses, CBD can also help keep you alert and avoid daytime drowsiness. This can help you have the energy you need throughout the day, so you don’t have to take afternoon naps. As a result, you can have a more regulated and natural sleep-wake cycle.
CBD for Beauty
Did you know that many people use CBD products to enhance their daily skincare and beauty routines? CBD is great for treating skin blemishes. It also helps reduce the appearance of red or itchy skin, so you can walk out of your home with confidence!
CBD oil is also full of other natural compounds, including omegas. Omega-3 in particular is great for strengthening and moisturizing hair, and coaxing out its natural shine.
Side Effects of CBD
CBD does have side effects, just like any other form of medicine, but CBD’s side effects are minimal and mild compared to mainstream drugs. Plus, CBD is not addictive, which is extremely important and appealing, especially when you need to take regular doses of addictive pharmaceutical medications, such as opioids and other painkillers.
When using any oil or product that contains CBD, you may experience some nausea, fatigue, and/or sleepiness. However, CBD provides a host of positive side effects at the same time, including the benefits we’ve already talked about. The best way that you can experience these benefits is by choosing a high-quality product that uses pure CBD oil.
Finding the Right Dosage to Achieve CBD Health Benefits
Although there are countless people who have discovered the health benefits for CBD for themselves, many doctors worry that there are not enough studies to confirm all of CBD’s health benefits or the proper dosage to achieve those desired results. Doctors cannot deny that some people experience greatly improved health as a result of using CBD products, but we also can’t ignore the limited number of studies.
As with any kind of medication, CBD will affect everyone a little differently, and everyone will need to test different dosages until they find the right amount of CBD that works for them. Due to limited studies on proper dosage amount, many doctors recommend starting at a low dosage (1-20mg) and see what that does for you over the course of one week. If you don’t notice any of the benefits after that first week, you can adjust your dosage by 5-10mg for the next week, and so on until you find the right dosage for you. Be sure to consult with your physician as you adjust your dosage. For basic dosage guidelines, check out this website.
What to expect in part eight: CBD for Mental and Emotional Health
PART 8: CBD For Mental and Emotional Health
Did you know that one in every four people will be affected by some kind of mental health issue at some point in their life? Just in the United States alone, that’s over 80 million people! With so many people experiencing some form of mental illness, it’s no wonder doctors, naturalists, and victims alike are all searching for new and better ways to help improve mental health.
As we discussed in our last post, CBD provides a host of benefits for your physical health. But did you know that CBD can also improve your mental well-being? If you or someone you know suffers from a mental health issue, you may want to at least consider CBD as a treatment option that you can discuss with your doctor.
Before you do that, though, here’s a list of just some of the things CBD can do to help with your mental health:
Ease Feelings of Anxiety
Anxiety is one of the most common mental health issues today. Not only can anxiety make you experience shortened breaths and unclear thoughts, but it can also affect your health by raising your blood pressure, causing digestive issues, and resulting in lack of sleep. To help ease your symptoms of anxiety, CBD helps your Endocannabinoid System (ECS) establish homeostasis, or harmony and balance, throughout your mind and body. This can ultimately help you feel calmer and experience fewer or less severe side effects of anxiety.
Improve Your Mood
If you experience frequent and/or severe feelings of sadness, CBD may help. When ingested, CBD works with several receptors in your brain to establish homeostasis. One of the receptors that CBD activates is your 5-HT1A serotonin receptor, which is responsible for regulating your mood and anxiety levels. By targeting this specific serotonin receptor, CBD can enhance how your serotonin receptors send signals throughout the brain and body. As a result, you can experience fast and lasting antidepressant-like effects in a natural way.
Strengthen Your Endocannabinoid System
One way that CBD strengthens your ECS is by inhibiting the breakdown of anandamide. Anandamide is an endocannabinoid that is fundamentally linked to happy feelings. When you ingest CBD, it inhibits the Fatty Acid Amide Hydrolase (FFAH) enzyme that breaks down anandamide. By inhibiting the breakdown, CBD enables anandamide to last longer in the body, which strengthens your ECS.
It’s great to have a strong Endocannabinoid System, but why is it so important? Well, your ECS is responsible for regulating several systems within your body, including mental processing. Over the years, scientists have determined a link between a weakened or insufficient ECS and mental health issues, including depression. By strengthening your ECS, CBD can help reduce your chances of suffering from mental issues, or reduce the side effects you experience.
Aid in Psychosis Disorders
A psychosis disorder is when someone experiences impaired thoughts and emotions to the extent where they cannot identify what is reality and what is not. Examples of psychosis disorders include Alzheimer’s, schizophrenia, and Parkinson’s. Psychosis can come about from various different things, but one interesting cause that scientists have found is the frequent use of high-THC products, such as marijuana. Studies show, however, that CBD can help counteract the negative side effects that THC can have on the brain. CBD does this by lowering the psychosis symptoms as well as improving general cognitive function.
Ease Side Effects From Traumatic Events
Many people experience an extreme case of anxiety as a result of a traumatic, frightening, or extremely stressful event. For some, this condition may be clinically diagnosed as Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), whereas others may have milder but still detrimental side effects. No matter the severity of the condition, those who suffer from such anxiety often experience nightmares or flashbacks of the event, which can cause them to feel extreme guilt, sadness, or irritability. One way that CBD can help reduce these effects is by activating the 5-HT1A serotonin receptor, which can help improve your mood and reduce anxiety.
Another way that CBD can help is by reducing the activity of the amygdala part of the brain. In short, the amygdala produces fear. It controls the way we respond to events, particularly frightening ones. CBD can reduce activity in the amygdala by inhibiting the FAAH enzyme (remember this from earlier?) and increasing the amount of anandamide in the body. As a result, you can experience greater and longer-lasting feelings of happiness instead of fear.
Reduce Compulsions and Addictions
For those who experience obsessive compulsions, CBD may help. Obsessive compulsions can interfere with day-to-day life in many different ways, and it can be a great hindrance for many people. When ingested, CBD can activate your 5-HT1A serotonin receptor, which, in part, helps reduce compulsive behavior and instincts.
If you or someone you know suffers from an addiction of any kind, CBD may be able to help with that as well in several different ways. First, CBD can help reduce cravings. It can also help reduce any anxiety caused from such cravings, resulting in a calmer mind and greater ability to focus on quitting.
As you can see, CBD can help ease the effects of many mental health issues. If you or someone you know experiences one or more of these issues, it may be worth considering CBD. As always, be sure to consult with your doctor before using CBD, especially if you are already taking medications. You may be surprised, though, to see just what CBD can do for you.
As we discussed in our last post, CBD provides a host of benefits for your physical health. But did you know that CBD can also improve your mental well-being? If you or someone you know suffers from a mental health issue, you may want to at least consider CBD as a treatment option that you can discuss with your doctor.
Before you do that, though, here’s a list of just some of the things CBD can do to help with your mental health:
Ease Feelings of Anxiety
Anxiety is one of the most common mental health issues today. Not only can anxiety make you experience shortened breaths and unclear thoughts, but it can also affect your health by raising your blood pressure, causing digestive issues, and resulting in lack of sleep. To help ease your symptoms of anxiety, CBD helps your Endocannabinoid System (ECS) establish homeostasis, or harmony and balance, throughout your mind and body. This can ultimately help you feel calmer and experience fewer or less severe side effects of anxiety.
Improve Your Mood
If you experience frequent and/or severe feelings of sadness, CBD may help. When ingested, CBD works with several receptors in your brain to establish homeostasis. One of the receptors that CBD activates is your 5-HT1A serotonin receptor, which is responsible for regulating your mood and anxiety levels. By targeting this specific serotonin receptor, CBD can enhance how your serotonin receptors send signals throughout the brain and body. As a result, you can experience fast and lasting antidepressant-like effects in a natural way.
Strengthen Your Endocannabinoid System
One way that CBD strengthens your ECS is by inhibiting the breakdown of anandamide. Anandamide is an endocannabinoid that is fundamentally linked to happy feelings. When you ingest CBD, it inhibits the Fatty Acid Amide Hydrolase (FFAH) enzyme that breaks down anandamide. By inhibiting the breakdown, CBD enables anandamide to last longer in the body, which strengthens your ECS.
It’s great to have a strong Endocannabinoid System, but why is it so important? Well, your ECS is responsible for regulating several systems within your body, including mental processing. Over the years, scientists have determined a link between a weakened or insufficient ECS and mental health issues, including depression. By strengthening your ECS, CBD can help reduce your chances of suffering from mental issues, or reduce the side effects you experience.
Aid in Psychosis Disorders
A psychosis disorder is when someone experiences impaired thoughts and emotions to the extent where they cannot identify what is reality and what is not. Examples of psychosis disorders include Alzheimer’s, schizophrenia, and Parkinson’s. Psychosis can come about from various different things, but one interesting cause that scientists have found is the frequent use of high-THC products, such as marijuana. Studies show, however, that CBD can help counteract the negative side effects that THC can have on the brain. CBD does this by lowering the psychosis symptoms as well as improving general cognitive function.
Ease Side Effects From Traumatic Events
Many people experience an extreme case of anxiety as a result of a traumatic, frightening, or extremely stressful event. For some, this condition may be clinically diagnosed as Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), whereas others may have milder but still detrimental side effects. No matter the severity of the condition, those who suffer from such anxiety often experience nightmares or flashbacks of the event, which can cause them to feel extreme guilt, sadness, or irritability. One way that CBD can help reduce these effects is by activating the 5-HT1A serotonin receptor, which can help improve your mood and reduce anxiety.
Another way that CBD can help is by reducing the activity of the amygdala part of the brain. In short, the amygdala produces fear. It controls the way we respond to events, particularly frightening ones. CBD can reduce activity in the amygdala by inhibiting the FAAH enzyme (remember this from earlier?) and increasing the amount of anandamide in the body. As a result, you can experience greater and longer-lasting feelings of happiness instead of fear.
Reduce Compulsions and Addictions
For those who experience obsessive compulsions, CBD may help. Obsessive compulsions can interfere with day-to-day life in many different ways, and it can be a great hindrance for many people. When ingested, CBD can activate your 5-HT1A serotonin receptor, which, in part, helps reduce compulsive behavior and instincts.
If you or someone you know suffers from an addiction of any kind, CBD may be able to help with that as well in several different ways. First, CBD can help reduce cravings. It can also help reduce any anxiety caused from such cravings, resulting in a calmer mind and greater ability to focus on quitting.
As you can see, CBD can help ease the effects of many mental health issues. If you or someone you know experiences one or more of these issues, it may be worth considering CBD. As always, be sure to consult with your doctor before using CBD, especially if you are already taking medications. You may be surprised, though, to see just what CBD can do for you.
Young Living, the leader for 3 decades in producing the purest, best therapeutic essential oils in the world, will be introducing a line of CBD oil in 2019! No more guessing from the dozens of new-to-market companies trying to cash in on plant medicine.
We've mastered the sustainable art of non-GMO, hyper-organic farming longer than most of these companies have been around combined.
When you choose a company to support you and your family in the healing journey to health + happiness, you can feel at peace that every product we make, from CBD oil, essential oils, personal care, beauty + make-up, household products to supplements and ancient grain food sources -- will be the purest, best, 100% non-GMO, organic, ethically + sustainably farmed available in the world. Period.
People before profits.
Fill out the below form to stay updated and learn about life changing paint-based wellness:
We've mastered the sustainable art of non-GMO, hyper-organic farming longer than most of these companies have been around combined.
When you choose a company to support you and your family in the healing journey to health + happiness, you can feel at peace that every product we make, from CBD oil, essential oils, personal care, beauty + make-up, household products to supplements and ancient grain food sources -- will be the purest, best, 100% non-GMO, organic, ethically + sustainably farmed available in the world. Period.
People before profits.
Fill out the below form to stay updated and learn about life changing paint-based wellness:
PICEA MARIANA (P. MILL.) B.S.P. VAR. MARIANA
Black spruce is in the Pinaceae family which includes the Pines and Firs as well as Cedarwood (Cedrus atlantica). Black spruce resin was used as a chewing gum; wound healing agent; tea against sore throat; salve greased on the chest against bronchial diseases while Black spruce needles were used in tea against cough; stomach disease because of tobacco abuse. The cones were also used in tea against cold and cough (Deeg, et al. 2012).
The essential oil is distilled from the needles. The essential oil is rich in the ester, bornyl acetate, and supported by monoterpenes (camphene and a-pinene).
TOP AFFINITIES FOR BLACK SPRUCE:
Black spruce is in the Pinaceae family which includes the Pines and Firs as well as Cedarwood (Cedrus atlantica). Black spruce resin was used as a chewing gum; wound healing agent; tea against sore throat; salve greased on the chest against bronchial diseases while Black spruce needles were used in tea against cough; stomach disease because of tobacco abuse. The cones were also used in tea against cold and cough (Deeg, et al. 2012).
The essential oil is distilled from the needles. The essential oil is rich in the ester, bornyl acetate, and supported by monoterpenes (camphene and a-pinene).
TOP AFFINITIES FOR BLACK SPRUCE:
- Respiratory system: Colds, moist coughs, spasmodic coughs, bronchitis
- Immune System: Immune deficiency. General weakness. Strengthens immunity/ojas.
Specific for adrenal fatigue. Can be used with Scots Pine (Pinus sylvestris). Use in a 1:2 essential oils to vegetable oil dilution. Gently massage into area above kidneys. Apply 2x a day.
The bornyl acetate content indicates that it could be a beneficial analgesic and anti-inflammatory (think musculoskeletal system: muscular aches and pains, stiffness, tension) essential oil, as well as being relaxing. Could blend with other ester rich essential oils or essential oils with a good ester content and the sedative alcohol, linalol.
Northern Lights Black Spruce is a key ingredient in Young Living's best selling blend, Valor.
Northern Lights Black Spruce is a key ingredient in Young Living's best selling blend, Valor.
Aromatherapy Recipes with Black Spruce
RELIEVE CONGESTION: RESPIRATORY STOCK BOTTLE
5ml bottle (approx 125 drops)
50 drops Northern Lights Black spruce
50 drops Eucalyptus radiata
25 drops Frankincense
**How to use: Add 25 drops to blank personal inhaler. Add 10-15 drops in water diffuser, or 2ml in nebulizing diffuser. Add 3-5 drops to bowl of hot water for steam inhalation.
RELIEVE CONGESTION: RESPIRATORY STOCK BOTTLE
5ml bottle (approx 125 drops)
50 drops Northern Lights Black spruce
50 drops Eucalyptus radiata
25 drops Frankincense
**How to use: Add 25 drops to blank personal inhaler. Add 10-15 drops in water diffuser, or 2ml in nebulizing diffuser. Add 3-5 drops to bowl of hot water for steam inhalation.
NOURISHMENT BODY OIL
1 fl oz of Jojoba or Grapeseed oil
0.5 fl oz of Calendula herbal oil
0.5 fl oz of Sesame oil
10 drops Northern Lights Black spruce
8 drops Rose
7 drops Royal Hawaiian or Sacred Sandalwood
1 fl oz of Jojoba or Grapeseed oil
0.5 fl oz of Calendula herbal oil
0.5 fl oz of Sesame oil
10 drops Northern Lights Black spruce
8 drops Rose
7 drops Royal Hawaiian or Sacred Sandalwood
MUSCLE ACHES AND PAIN GEL
3 Tbsp Aloe Vera Gelly
1 Tbsp Laurel Hydrosol (or Lavender or 5 drops lavender eo in 1/2 tbsp glycerin + 1/2 tbsp distilled water)
1 tsp. German chamomile Hydrosol
10 drops Northern Lights Black spruce
5 drops Laurus nobilis Vitality
5 drops Lemon
3 Tbsp Aloe Vera Gelly
1 Tbsp Laurel Hydrosol (or Lavender or 5 drops lavender eo in 1/2 tbsp glycerin + 1/2 tbsp distilled water)
1 tsp. German chamomile Hydrosol
10 drops Northern Lights Black spruce
5 drops Laurus nobilis Vitality
5 drops Lemon
ENHANCE IMMUNITY SALT SCRUB
2 cups Fine Himalayan Pink Sea Salt
1 cup (approx.) Sesame or other organic vegetable oil
15 drops Norther Lights Black spruce
6 drops Tea tree or Melaleuca quinquenervia
5 drops Eucalyptus radiata
5 drops Lemon
2 cups Fine Himalayan Pink Sea Salt
1 cup (approx.) Sesame or other organic vegetable oil
15 drops Norther Lights Black spruce
6 drops Tea tree or Melaleuca quinquenervia
5 drops Eucalyptus radiata
5 drops Lemon
Read more about Young Living's world class quality and our Northern Lights Black Spruce farm HERE
References:
Deeg, K, Eichhorn T, Alexie G, Kretschmer N, Andersch K, Bauer R, Efferth T. (2012). Growth inhibition of human acute lymphoblastic CCRF-CEM leukemia cells by medicinal plants of the West-Canadian Gwich’in Native Americans. Nat. Prod. Bioprospect. 2, 35–40.
Deeg, K, Eichhorn T, Alexie G, Kretschmer N, Andersch K, Bauer R, Efferth T. (2012). Growth inhibition of human acute lymphoblastic CCRF-CEM leukemia cells by medicinal plants of the West-Canadian Gwich’in Native Americans. Nat. Prod. Bioprospect. 2, 35–40.
Afternoon homework slump or commuting fatigue?
Need a boost to finish that project or study?
Simply want to boost focus, memory + be more mentally alert for your family?
Or maybe you constantly roll out of bed feeling tired, sluggish, and wondering how you’re going to deal with another day at the office?
Skip that extra dose of caffeine and try this simple combination of therapeutic essential oils to support your mental agility + focus.
Pure therapeutic essential oils that not only stimulate the nervous system but are cephalic as well (meaning that they improve memory and concentration!) make up this easy DIY on-the-go face mist.
Need a boost to finish that project or study?
Simply want to boost focus, memory + be more mentally alert for your family?
Or maybe you constantly roll out of bed feeling tired, sluggish, and wondering how you’re going to deal with another day at the office?
Skip that extra dose of caffeine and try this simple combination of therapeutic essential oils to support your mental agility + focus.
Pure therapeutic essential oils that not only stimulate the nervous system but are cephalic as well (meaning that they improve memory and concentration!) make up this easy DIY on-the-go face mist.
Vital Focus Mist
In a 1oz glass or stainless steel spray bottle combine the following essential oils:
7 drops Spearmint
7 drops Peppermint
5 drops Cardamon
4 drops Rosemary
Swirl to synergize.
Add 1 tsp vegetable glycerin*, mix well.
Slowly fill up to next of bottle with distilled water.
Mix thoroughly.
*VG can be skipped in a pinch, but you will need to shake VERY well before each use as oils will separate from water without it.
Close your eyes, spray on face and décolletage, breathe deeply. Use as often as needed.
This is a pick-me-up that works in seconds. No matter how busy you are you’ve got a few spare seconds.
You can use it all the time — while you're driving, working or doing any activity that requires your focus and attention.
ProTip: Use these same oils in your nearby diffuser to keep some pep in your step. Also, double the oils, ditch the VG & water, and use in a 10ml roller bottle filled with organic grapeseed oil for a brain boosting roller to send with your little one to school!
WHY DOES IT WORK?
The essential oils chosen here to support memory, focus + concentration in this blend are:
Spearmint Essential Oil: restorative, strengthens memory, stimulates the mind
Peppermint Essential Oil: stimulates nerves and brain, improves concentration and study
Cardamom Essential Oil: fortifying, tonic of the brain and nervous system
Rosemary Essential Oil: clears the mind, sharpens the memory and boosts the nervous system
ProTip: The Vitality line of the above oils work identically.
This is a pick-me-up that works in seconds. No matter how busy you are you’ve got a few spare seconds.
You can use it all the time — while you're driving, working or doing any activity that requires your focus and attention.
ProTip: Use these same oils in your nearby diffuser to keep some pep in your step. Also, double the oils, ditch the VG & water, and use in a 10ml roller bottle filled with organic grapeseed oil for a brain boosting roller to send with your little one to school!
WHY DOES IT WORK?
The essential oils chosen here to support memory, focus + concentration in this blend are:
Spearmint Essential Oil: restorative, strengthens memory, stimulates the mind
Peppermint Essential Oil: stimulates nerves and brain, improves concentration and study
Cardamom Essential Oil: fortifying, tonic of the brain and nervous system
Rosemary Essential Oil: clears the mind, sharpens the memory and boosts the nervous system
ProTip: The Vitality line of the above oils work identically.
Not so much into DIY? Buy a hand crafted bottle of VITAL FOCUS MIST HERE from the ApothecaryMama Shoppery.
Shared with permission from ThinkCrucial.com
When it comes to essential oils, everyone knows how to put them in a diffuser to reap the benefits of aromatherapy. But did you know that there are other ways that you can use your essential oil that will provide a tangible benefit to you and your loved ones? The positive properties of essential oils come from the oil’s natural anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antimicrobial properties.
Essential oils have been used for thousands of years by hundreds of different cultures. They have been used not just for aromatherapy, but also personal care, cleaning, and even for their natural healing properties.
One thing to keep in mind when you use essential oils is that you should not use undiluted essential oils on your bare skin. There are some who disagree with this, saying that pure essential oil on the skin can be used for various things. However, because everyone’s tolerance and sensitivity to the compounds found in essential oil can vary widely, if you’ve never applied essential oils to your skin, dilute them.
When you dilute an essential oil, you use a carrier oil. Carrier oils are neutral and stable, so they will not evaporate or add unwanted properties to an essential oil. These include sweet almond oil, jojoba oil, olive oil, or even shea butter. There is no real standard for dilution as every person has a different sensitivity to essential oils. In general, start with one drop of essential oil to ever teaspoon of carrier oil. This will give you a roughly 1% solution strength. From there, you can increase the amount of essential oil as need be to suit your tolerance and needs.
Essential oils have been used for thousands of years by hundreds of different cultures. They have been used not just for aromatherapy, but also personal care, cleaning, and even for their natural healing properties.
One thing to keep in mind when you use essential oils is that you should not use undiluted essential oils on your bare skin. There are some who disagree with this, saying that pure essential oil on the skin can be used for various things. However, because everyone’s tolerance and sensitivity to the compounds found in essential oil can vary widely, if you’ve never applied essential oils to your skin, dilute them.
When you dilute an essential oil, you use a carrier oil. Carrier oils are neutral and stable, so they will not evaporate or add unwanted properties to an essential oil. These include sweet almond oil, jojoba oil, olive oil, or even shea butter. There is no real standard for dilution as every person has a different sensitivity to essential oils. In general, start with one drop of essential oil to ever teaspoon of carrier oil. This will give you a roughly 1% solution strength. From there, you can increase the amount of essential oil as need be to suit your tolerance and needs.
Cleaning With Essential Oils.
- Lemon or another citrus essential oil can dissolve gummy stuck-on disasters. Use a couple of drops to get gum out of hair or out of the carpet. A drop or two will remove tree sap from tools and sticky label residue from containers.
- Citrus essential oils are also great for cleaning permanent marker from non-porous surfaces.
- Spiders find peppermint oil repugnant. If you have an area where they like to lurk, put one or two drops of oil on a cotton ball and tuck it there.
- Keep ants out! Make a spray out of 5 drops of peppermint oil to 1 cup of water. Shake well and spray into cracks where you notice them coming in.
- When you change your box filters in your HVAC system, add a drop of essential oil onto the filter on the exit side. The oils will refresh your entire home.
- Eucalyptus Oil is great for cleaning. Combine with tea tree oil for a great cleaning spray. Add four drops of each to 1 cup of warm water in a spray bottle. Use to remove mildew and you’ll be disinfecting and deodorizing at the same time.
- Make a natural disinfectant and cleaner by combining lemon and tea tree essential oils with warm water. Use in a spray container to clean hard non-porous surfaces naturally without harsh chemicals.
- If you or someone in your household smokes, get rid of the old smoky smell by adding tea tree oil, eucalyptus, and rosemary oil to warm water in a spray bottle. Spray when needed to naturally deodorize the air.
- If you have a dishwasher, add a drop or two of lemon essential oil before you start it. This will help ensure a spot free rinse that keeps your dishes sparkling.
Personal Healthcare.
- If you have kids who seem to get the before-bedtime wiggles and have trouble falling asleep, sprinkle some lavender oil on their pillow. You can also add a couple of drops onto their favorite teddy to help them calm down.
- If you’ve had a tough day on your feet, relax and soothe those tired dogs. Add a couple of drops of eucalyptus oil to a large bowl of warm water to help revitalize and soothe your feet.
- If you’re feeling tense and overwhelmed, apply diluted lavender essential oil to your temples. The smell will take effect more quickly than your normal diffuser.
- Peppermint oil, properly diluted, can help stave off or reduce the effects of a migraine. As soon as you feel one coming on, apply to your temple and the base of your neck to allow the blood flow to increase and your veins to relax.
- Lavender oil is a natural disinfectant. Apply diluted essential oil to a scrape of cut to keep it clean and reduce inflammation.
- Lavender can also help reduce tension in the jaw and neck by applying a few drops behind the jaw and massaging it into sore and stiff neck muscles.
- Add a diluted essential oil to sugar or rock salt to make your own homemade sugar or salt scrub. Use in the bath or on your face as you would a commercial product.
- Fight nausea from indigestion or sickness by breathing in peppermint oil. In some cases, ginger or lavender oil will also help.
- Lavender oil also helps take the itch and sting out of bug bites. Apply a few diluted drops and rub into the bite to soothe the sting.
- After workout muscle soreness can be soothed with a homemade eucalyptus rub. Add some eucalyptus and peppermint oil to an unscented lotion and rub into the affected area.
As you can see, essential oils have more uses than just percolating in your diffuser for aromatherapy. Experiment with your favorite oils to find out more things you can do to help improve your life.
Both positive and negative emotions are important and part of being human, but when we can’t manage them properly we can find ourselves in a downward spiral fast. This can have a serious impact on every aspect of our lives – especially our health.
Take an Emotional Detox Break
Taking regular emotional detox breaks will help you handle your emotions with ease and cleanse your entire system so that you can reach your full potential and enjoy the abundant life. This does not have to be a complicated drawn out process. Take a 15min walk a solely focus on you breathe & noticing life around you. Sit down for 2min to journal things you are grateful for.
Anything you choose to do, make it a regular part of your wellness routine to continuously improve your mental state. Which as we know directly effects your physically wellbeing. Those who choose to live with an over abundance of angst, anger, stress & discontentment are more prone to all illness. From autoimmune diseases, migraines & headaches, sleep disorders, common colds - to seriously illness such as cancer and degenerative diseases.
Our bodies & minds are an interconnected system of natural chemicals that can either serve us or make us feel miserable. What do you want to feel like?
DIY Emotional Detox Inhaler
Contrary to popular opinion, there are actually much fewer ways to use essential oils to detox your body compared to using essential oils to detox your emotions. EOs help calm your mind, boost your mood and help put you in a meditative, mindful state.
Take an Emotional Detox Break
Taking regular emotional detox breaks will help you handle your emotions with ease and cleanse your entire system so that you can reach your full potential and enjoy the abundant life. This does not have to be a complicated drawn out process. Take a 15min walk a solely focus on you breathe & noticing life around you. Sit down for 2min to journal things you are grateful for.
Anything you choose to do, make it a regular part of your wellness routine to continuously improve your mental state. Which as we know directly effects your physically wellbeing. Those who choose to live with an over abundance of angst, anger, stress & discontentment are more prone to all illness. From autoimmune diseases, migraines & headaches, sleep disorders, common colds - to seriously illness such as cancer and degenerative diseases.
Our bodies & minds are an interconnected system of natural chemicals that can either serve us or make us feel miserable. What do you want to feel like?
DIY Emotional Detox Inhaler
Contrary to popular opinion, there are actually much fewer ways to use essential oils to detox your body compared to using essential oils to detox your emotions. EOs help calm your mind, boost your mood and help put you in a meditative, mindful state.
 | Emotional Detoxification Inhaler Ingredients*
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Instructions
*Essential oils must be 100% pure therapeutic grade, direct from the farm/distiller, hyper-orgnanic & non-GMO in order to have the desire effects. Store bought oils will not work and may not be safe.
**Learn more about essential oil science, safety & quality HERE.
***Get started with the most used & useful essential oil kit in the world HERE.
- Mix your essential oils in a glass ramekin or empty 5 or 15ml empty essential oil bottle. [PRO TIP: Make MORE of this blend than you need for the inhaler to also use as a roller, in your diffuser and to reinvigorate your inhaler from time to time!]
- Swirl to synergies.
- Add 20 drops of blend to the cotton wick after you've set it in the cap.
- Place top section on inhaler tube.
- Keep out away from heat and tightly sealed when not in use.
- Use during your emotional detox exercises (mediation, walking, yoga, prayer, etc) - especially when practicing forgiveness, self-love, spiritual growth and reciting positive affirmations.
- Use as often as needed.
*Essential oils must be 100% pure therapeutic grade, direct from the farm/distiller, hyper-orgnanic & non-GMO in order to have the desire effects. Store bought oils will not work and may not be safe.
**Learn more about essential oil science, safety & quality HERE.
***Get started with the most used & useful essential oil kit in the world HERE.
Carrot Seed essential oil is a historical digestive tonic that also has been traditionally used for joint conditions in aromatherapy. Identified by its warm and earthy, yet mildly sweet aroma, carrot seed essential oil has a long history of being used in ancient medicine, thanks to multiple healing properties. Together, its constituents provide users with an array of health and beauty benefits. This is particular true of two of its main ingredients, carotol and camphene. Here are the top benefits associated with these two constituents.
Carotol
Researchers have found that carrot seed oil has antifungal properties and is particularly effective against gram-positive bacteria. This is largely due to the carotol it contains. In one study, carotol inhibited the growth of fungus by 65%, though further research is needed to determine exactly how.
In a separate study, carrot seed oil demonstrated liver protective benefits and was found to help improve jaundice and hepatitis. It is believed to help regulate the secretion of bile in the liver, making it easier to detoxify the body and allowing internal organs to function more effectively.
Camphene
Camphene has been shown to have powerful pain relieving and antioxidative properties, as well as help fight cardiovascular disease. In particular, the combination of camphene and other constituents act as an emenagogue, meaning that it helps make periods less painful and more regular.
In a 2009 study, camphene, along with the vitamins A, C, and E found in carrot seed oil were shown to be powerful nutriceuticals, resulting in health and medical benefits that both heal and protect the body.
ProTip: Add carrot seed essential oil to your skincare routine for daily benefits.
Carotol
Researchers have found that carrot seed oil has antifungal properties and is particularly effective against gram-positive bacteria. This is largely due to the carotol it contains. In one study, carotol inhibited the growth of fungus by 65%, though further research is needed to determine exactly how.
In a separate study, carrot seed oil demonstrated liver protective benefits and was found to help improve jaundice and hepatitis. It is believed to help regulate the secretion of bile in the liver, making it easier to detoxify the body and allowing internal organs to function more effectively.
Camphene
Camphene has been shown to have powerful pain relieving and antioxidative properties, as well as help fight cardiovascular disease. In particular, the combination of camphene and other constituents act as an emenagogue, meaning that it helps make periods less painful and more regular.
In a 2009 study, camphene, along with the vitamins A, C, and E found in carrot seed oil were shown to be powerful nutriceuticals, resulting in health and medical benefits that both heal and protect the body.
ProTip: Add carrot seed essential oil to your skincare routine for daily benefits.
Summertime is almost here, so today I've got some helpful tips for staying healthy throughout the summer with essential oils!
Here are my Top 10 Ways to Use Oils in the Summertime:
Lavender - this oil is a must for beach vacations because it's great to put on the skin after a bit too much sun. It will also help reduce stress and sleep soundly. Rub a drop or two on the area of concern, the back of the neck, or add it to your favorite diffuser that you brought along!
Thieves Spray - this antibacterial spray kills 99.9% of germs and doesn't contain any synthetic chemicals like the conventional wipes, gels and sprays. This is a must to carry in the car, your purse, or send with your kids to summer camp.
Raven - for the occasional stuffy nose, where any kind of respiratory support is needed, or if anyone in your family has issues being around animals, Raven is the oil you want on hand! Rub 1-2 drops over the lungs, sinuses, bottoms of the feet, back of the neck, or diffuse as needed.
Insect Repellent - this oil comes in a handy spray bottle. So, simply spray it directly on to the skin to keep the mosquitos and other bugs away. I used some of this last summer when the mosquitos were out in full force and didn't get a single bite! Put some in a up cycled 15ml Thieves, peppermint, lemongrass or Purification bottle with a roller top for easy application for any age.
PanAway - if you're planning on doing any hiking this summer, bring some PanAway along! Rub a drop or two directly on to the area of concern to soothe those sore muscles.
Orange - this is a great oil for both energy and to reduce anxiety. I love using it for road trips, or to diffuse throughout the day in the house. You can also add a drop to smoothies or homemade popsicles (try adding NingXia Red to homemade popsicles for healthy treats!).
Cedarwood - this is my go-to for a solid night's sleep, and the entire family loves it! Either rub a drop or two on the bottoms of the feet before bed or diffuse it along with some Lavender. This oil is truly amazing!
DiGize - this is my go-to for any and all digestive support needs. Simply rub 1-2 drops on the area of concern or take 1-2 drops internally. Put DiGize in a capsule, which makes it super easy for taste-free digestive support. Use a drop behind the ears and on the temples to relieve/prevent motion sickness.
Thieves- this blend is a natural and effective alternative for immune support. My whole family uses this oil anytime we are traveling because we never know what we will come in contact with. Rub a drop or two on the bottoms of the feet, around the base of the neck, or take internally 2x a day. This blend also comes in capsule form.
Peppermint - this oil helps to alleviate occasional stomach upset and promotes healthy respiratory function. It also has a cooling affect on the skin, which is great when you've gotten a bit too much sun. It's also a great oil to use to help wake you up and give you more energy (a MUST for car trips). You can rub a drop or two on your feet, on the back of your neck, on the area of concern, diffuse or take internally.
Here are my Top 10 Ways to Use Oils in the Summertime:
Lavender - this oil is a must for beach vacations because it's great to put on the skin after a bit too much sun. It will also help reduce stress and sleep soundly. Rub a drop or two on the area of concern, the back of the neck, or add it to your favorite diffuser that you brought along!
Thieves Spray - this antibacterial spray kills 99.9% of germs and doesn't contain any synthetic chemicals like the conventional wipes, gels and sprays. This is a must to carry in the car, your purse, or send with your kids to summer camp.
Raven - for the occasional stuffy nose, where any kind of respiratory support is needed, or if anyone in your family has issues being around animals, Raven is the oil you want on hand! Rub 1-2 drops over the lungs, sinuses, bottoms of the feet, back of the neck, or diffuse as needed.
Insect Repellent - this oil comes in a handy spray bottle. So, simply spray it directly on to the skin to keep the mosquitos and other bugs away. I used some of this last summer when the mosquitos were out in full force and didn't get a single bite! Put some in a up cycled 15ml Thieves, peppermint, lemongrass or Purification bottle with a roller top for easy application for any age.
PanAway - if you're planning on doing any hiking this summer, bring some PanAway along! Rub a drop or two directly on to the area of concern to soothe those sore muscles.
Orange - this is a great oil for both energy and to reduce anxiety. I love using it for road trips, or to diffuse throughout the day in the house. You can also add a drop to smoothies or homemade popsicles (try adding NingXia Red to homemade popsicles for healthy treats!).
Cedarwood - this is my go-to for a solid night's sleep, and the entire family loves it! Either rub a drop or two on the bottoms of the feet before bed or diffuse it along with some Lavender. This oil is truly amazing!
DiGize - this is my go-to for any and all digestive support needs. Simply rub 1-2 drops on the area of concern or take 1-2 drops internally. Put DiGize in a capsule, which makes it super easy for taste-free digestive support. Use a drop behind the ears and on the temples to relieve/prevent motion sickness.
Thieves- this blend is a natural and effective alternative for immune support. My whole family uses this oil anytime we are traveling because we never know what we will come in contact with. Rub a drop or two on the bottoms of the feet, around the base of the neck, or take internally 2x a day. This blend also comes in capsule form.
Peppermint - this oil helps to alleviate occasional stomach upset and promotes healthy respiratory function. It also has a cooling affect on the skin, which is great when you've gotten a bit too much sun. It's also a great oil to use to help wake you up and give you more energy (a MUST for car trips). You can rub a drop or two on your feet, on the back of your neck, on the area of concern, diffuse or take internally.
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Got your starter kit and don’t know where to begin? Here are a few tips on how you can use The Essential Eleven Oils in your kit and some great information about Thieves Household Cleaner and our new Desert Mist Diffuser.
PRO TIP: This is by no means an exhaustive list of the ways to use your PSK - but a fast and easy way to get started. There are literally thousands of uses for these 11 amazing oils for you to discover. Just ask for help!
PRO TIP: This is by no means an exhaustive list of the ways to use your PSK - but a fast and easy way to get started. There are literally thousands of uses for these 11 amazing oils for you to discover. Just ask for help!
Let’s begin with Lemon essential oil! Ways you can use Lemon include:
- Add 1 drop to your water for a refreshing digestive aid
- Add 1 drop to evening moisturizer to reduce appearance of blemishes
- Use lemon oil to remove sticky residues
- Add 3 drops along with Peppermint and Lavender to your diffuser to help reactions that come with seasonal changes
- Mix with baking soda and coconut oil and rub on your teeth for 2 minutes as a natural teeth whitener
- Mix a few drops in your Thieves cleaner for a great wood cleaning agent
Lavender is also known as the “swiss army knife” of oils because of its versatility of uses. Here are some of our favorites:
- Relax, unwind and sleep better with just a few drops in your diffuser, add Cedarwood to catch some extra zzzs
- Apply to mild abrasions and burns on your skin
- Swipe over your nose to help with snoring
- Add a few drops to your mascara for longer and healthier lashes
- Add a few drops to your shampoo to strengthen and nourish hair
- Mix a few drops with frankincense in coconut oil as anti-aging face cream
Peppermint essential oil gives a cooling sensation and has a calming effect on the body. Here are some pretty cool uses:
- Place 2 drops on the tongue and rub another drop of oil under the nose to help improve concentration and alertness
- Rub one drop on the temples, forehead, over the sinuses (careful to avoid contact with your eyes), and on the back of the neck to relieve head pressure
- Apply to the back of the neck and shoulders throughout the day to keep energy up
- Diffuse or inhale mid-morning to curb the desire to snack
- Inhale or rub a drop on your abdomen to soothe minor stomach discomfort
- Apply to your temples before a work out for extra energy
- Inhale to help with motion and morning sickness
Young Living’s most popular blend, Thieves contains powerful essential oils that defend and protect such as clove, rosemary, cinnamon bark, and Eucalyptus Radiata. Ways to use Thieves include:
- Put a few drops in a capsule and swallow with water to support your immune system
- Put a few drops with Peppermint and Lemon for a wellness tea
- Put a few drops in your dishwasher to thoroughly clean dishes and eliminate odors
- Diffuse for 15–30 minutes in your home or office to help eliminate airborne bacteria
- Apply on the bottoms of feet for internal support
Stress Away is made with Copaiba, Lime, Cedarwood, Vanilla, Ocotea and Lavender. The stress of daily activities can be soothed with this combination of pure, therapeutic grade oils. Ways you can use it to reduce stress, head tension and anxiety include:
- Apply to your wrists or back of neck (also makes a great perfume)
- Diffuse at work, home or in your office
- Adding a drop or two in water or in a clear vegetable capsule and drink.
Frankincense essential oil is steam distilled from the resin of the Boswellia tree. It is a favorite in beauty products and for internal use when it comes to cellular health.
- Add Frankincense to your daytime lotion or night cream for a custom moisturizer that smooths appearance and helps maintain radiance.
- Take as a dietary supplement by adding 1-2 drops to support cellular health
- Apply directly to a skin tag or scar to eliminate or smooth appearance
- Add a drop or two to Ningxia Red, water, or your favorite juice
- Incorporate Frankincense into your yoga ritual by diffusing this oil during your routine and following up with a post-practice massage
PanAway is an oil blend that has a stimulating aroma and is a popular combination of Wintergreen, Helichrysum, Clove, and Peppermint essential oils. It is ideal to apply topically after exercise or a strenuous day. Here are some great ways to use PanAway:
- Rub on your chest to wake up in the morning
- Add 5-6 drops to a bowl with 2 cups of epsom salt in a bath tub
- Apply topically after a workout or to achy areas
- Mix with a carrier oil for a refreshing massage
Combining Orange, Tangerine, Grapefruit, Lemon, and Mandarin oils with a hint of Spearmint, Citrus Fresh essential oil is a proprietary Young Living blend that offers an uplifting, refreshing aroma that you can diffuse to transform home, work, and classroom spaces.
- Diffuse to purify the air
- Put a few drops in baking soda to deodorize your carpet
- Put a few drops in your garbage disposal to deodorize kitchen odors
- Put a few drops on a cotton ball and put in your AC vents, diaper pails, and shoes
- Put a few drops on a wool dryer ball to freshen clothes naturally
- Apply topically to tone and smooth the appearance of skin
Raven is a cleansing blend of Ravintsara, Peppermint, Eucalyptus Radiata, and other essential oils. Raven creates a cooling sensation when applied topically to the chest and throat. This essential oil is NOT intended to be used on children under 6 without the supervision of a healthcare professional. Ways to use Raven for respiratory support include:
- With or without a carrier oil directly over the chest, under your nose and/or the bottoms of your feet
- Diffusing next to your bed while you are sleeping
Copaiba, pronounced “co-pa-ee-ba”, is known as the enhancer, as it makes any oil it is added to more potent. It has some other pretty neat uses including:
- Skin health – mix with lavender and frankincense in a roller bottle for an anti aging beauty serum. Copaiba literally tightens skin and reduces visible lines
- Respiratory health – inhale straight from the bottle or diffuse
- Joint health – add two drops to a tea or to a spoonful of honey
- Mood lifter – when diffused has often been known to lighten the spirit and improve mood
DiGize essential oil is one of YL most unique essential oil blends, combining Tarragon, Ginger, Peppermint, Juniper, Lemongrass, Anise, and Patchouli oils for a spicy, exotic aromatic blend. DiGize oil also includes Fennel essential oil, the use of which dates back to ancient Egypt. Ways to use Digize for digestive support include:
- Applying directly to your stomach
- Adding 1-2 drops in water or ginger ale (our favorite)
- Putting 1-2 drops directly on your tongue
One of our favorite additions to the New Premium Starter Kit is the sample you will receive of Thieves Household Cleaner.
Formulated with Thieves essential oil blend, this all-purpose cleaner is one of Young Living’s most popular products. It uses pure, powerful essential oils—including Clove, Lemon, and Rosemary—along with other naturally derived ingredients to make your home fresh and clean. With its welcoming scent and no synthetic or harsh ingredients, it’s a must-have in your stash of cleaning supplies and homemade cleaners.
Benefits of Thieves Household Cleaner
Formulated with Thieves essential oil blend, this all-purpose cleaner is one of Young Living’s most popular products. It uses pure, powerful essential oils—including Clove, Lemon, and Rosemary—along with other naturally derived ingredients to make your home fresh and clean. With its welcoming scent and no synthetic or harsh ingredients, it’s a must-have in your stash of cleaning supplies and homemade cleaners.
Benefits of Thieves Household Cleaner
- Uses an ultra-concentrated, biodegradable formula. That one sample packet will clean your entire house for up to a month!
- Helps clean virtually every surface in your home, including floors, glass, counters, walls, and more
- Combines the strength of Thieves® essential oil blend with naturally derived, plant-based ingredients for superior cleaning power
- Effectively cleans without the harsh chemicals found in many traditional cleaners
- Rinses clean and is non-abrasive
- Safe around children and pets
Using ultrasonic frequency technology, the Desert Mist Diffuser generates waves at 1.7 million per second, breaking down essential oils and water into millions of microparticles, dispersing them into the air, and releasing the oils’ unique constituents. This diffuser is custom designed to diffuse continuously for 5–6 hours on High mode, 8 hours on Low mode, and 10 hours on Intermittent mode.* It also offers 11 individual light settings, including a candle-like flicker mode.
Don't have the Premium Starter Kit with these Essential Eleven oils & diffuser? Click HERE to change your life.
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