11 Natural Remedies for Scrapes & Bruises

Scrapes and bruises are a part of everyday life - especially in the summer with all the outdoor activities going on. Some of us, it seems, whether we’re accident prone or adventurous or maybe a little bit of both, get scraped up daily.  While there are many handy over-the-counter remedies to clean cuts, reduce swelling, prevent infection and promote healing, there are twice as many natural remedies which accomplish the same thing - without all the synthetic chemicals.  Nature really does take good care of us! 

Let’s look at some natural remedies for scrapes and bruises:*

1. Witch hazel. This plant is actually a deciduous shrub and the bark and leaves are an astringent which can be used to disinfect and to clean skin.  It’s also commonly used to treat sore muscles and swollen tissue. 

Aloe vera (Photo credit: olgaberrios)

2. Aloe vera is a common treatment for sunburns and rashes. A succulent plant grown in warm, tropical climates, it protects and moisturizes the skin - and is also great for treating burns.

3. Arnica Gel, which comes from a perennial in the sunflower family, is excellent for treating muscle aches and bruising, as well as arthritis pain. 

4. Raw garlic.  Despite the very unique and strong aroma, garlic cloves can be used as an antiseptic to disinfect cuts and scrapes.

5. Comfrey, a perennial flower, is used to treat sprains, strains, bruises and broken bones.  The roots of the flower are ground into a poultice and placed on the injured area.

6. Yarrow leaves, when dried and ground into a powder, can be uses to disinfect cuts and scrapes and to stop bleeding.

7. Lavender essential oil, when combined and diluted by jojoba oil or olive oil, relieves pain, burns and bee stings. 

8. Tea tree essential oil, when diluted with jojoba or olive oil, is an antiseptic and antibiotic.  It is great for cleaning minor cuts. 

Thyme. (Photo credit: Vietnam Plants & The USA. plants)

9. Thyme essential oil, when diluted with a base oil like olive or jojoba has both antimicrobial and antiseptic properties.  Use it to clean minor cuts and scrapes and to soothe bruised and sore muscles.

10. Castor oil can be used to treat bruising and reduce swelling. 

11. Calendula oil is used to soothe rashes and minor scrapes. 

In addition to these 11 natural remedies, homeopathic remedies can be designed to treat swelling and bruising, and flower essences can be used to reduce stress and alleviate shock symptoms.  Mother Nature has provided you with a number of gentle and safe first aid remedies.  Create your natural first aid kit today and take advantage of all the healing power that nature has to offer!

* Note: Information provided above should not be considered medical advice. You should consult a qualified medical professional before using any natural remedy.

How Aromatherapy Can Improve Concentration & Mental Clarity

By now, most of us have probably heard about the benefits of aromatherapy for relaxation.  It seems like there are hundreds of scents you can choose from if you want to unwind at the end of a long day.  Aromatherapy works quickly and effectively because, unlike other senses, scent is connected directly to your brain.  Since you already know aromatherapy works great to relax, why not try it when you need to concentrate?  Aromatherapy can be used to turn your brain back on, perk you up, and sharpen your thought process.  Imagine the work you can get done with that extra invigorating boost!

When it comes to concentration, there are many scents to choose from.  There are minty, fruity, and fresh smells that can help.  This means that you’ll be sure to find one you actually think smells good.  Here are just some of the options available:

* Lemon
* Mango- this can also help to improve concentration by easing symptoms of depression.
* Pine- this helps to increase energy levels as well as concentration.
* Apple- this can also give you an extra energy boost.
* Rosemary-this scent promotes relaxation and alertness at the same time.
* Peppermint- this has always been recommended to improve alertness for long study sessions
* Eucalyptus- this is similar to peppermint, and can be used to provide a slightly different scent.

If you want to use aromatherapy to help you concentrate, there are several options for helping the scent reach your nose.

Aromatic candle (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

* Aromatherapy candles.  These are an easy and simple way to help spread your favorite invigorating scents throughout the house.  They are slightly less concentrated, but they still get the job done.  Just buy the scents you want and light them whenever you’re studying or just need a mental boost.  Just remember that candle smoke pollutes your indoor air so make sure you have a filter in your vents, and use candles with natural ingredients such as soy and essential oils instead of paraffin wax and synthetic fragrances if possible. 

* Humidifier.  Simply find the oil form of the fragrance you want, put a few drops in your room humidifier and let it work.  As the water gets put into the air, the oil gets taken with.  When the droplets evaporate, the room is filled with your favorite refreshing sent.  They also make devices now that use water to disperse scent and clean your air at the same time.

* Rub on oil.  Instead of using the oil in your humidifier, just rub it onto your chest or under your nose.  It works like VapoRub by sending invigorating vapors right up to your nose.  Just be careful, many essential oils are quite strong and may irritate the skin, so you’ll want to mix a few drops with a mild, gentle carrier oil such as light sesame or almond oil.

If you want to study, concentrate more on work, or just feel energized and alert at the end of a long day, try one of these fantastic aromatherapy scents, and see how much more focused you feel!

5 Healthy Uses for Peppermint Oil

One happy side effect of the high cost of today's medical system is that it’s becoming more common for people to skip potentially dangerous prescription and over the counter drugs for natural alternatives that work with your body to help it heal.  The great thing about many of these natural products is that they can be beneficial for more than one problem.  A great example is peppermint oil.  It has been used to help with many different health issues. Plus, nothing says holidays like the scent of peppermint - bringing back memories of candy canes, minty hot cocoa, and more! Get in the spirit of the holiday season, and stay healthy this winter, with these 5 helpful tips for using peppermint oil.  (Remember, as with any essential oil, if you’re applying the oil directly, it’s best to dilute it in a neutral carrier oil before you apply.)* 

Mentha x piperita: Flowers and leaves. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

1. Digestive aid
The most common use of peppermint oil is aiding in digestion.  It helps promote the production of digestive juices, so you can use it on a regular basis to help your body - and it can especially be useful during the holiday season of overeating!  It also can be used to offer relief from digestive problems such as heartburn, nausea, gas, cramps, and even a spastic colon.  You can use peppermint oil when you experience symptoms, but it can also be used to prevent symptoms if you have a chronic condition like irritable bowel syndrome. 

2. Cold and flu 
Peppermint oil has several properties that can help with your cold and flu symptoms, along with other illnesses.  Peppermint oil is an expectorant, helping break up chest congestion. Rub some on your chest before bedtime to help relieve coughs, instead of over-the-counter creams containing harsh chemical ingredients. It has also been used to reduce fever, soothe scratchy throats and, get rid of headaches.  It’s a great natural alternative to over-the-counter medications that may contain alcohol or other unwanted ingredients.

3. Mental capabilities
Rubbing a dab of peppermint oil on your temples can help wake you up and improve your concentration and memory.  This is great when studying for or taking tests, or any other time you need to be alert and mentally clear.  It’s a great way to give brain a little boost without having to rely on coffee.  This can also be beneficial to help you feel better when you feel faint or dizzy.

4. Asthma
Peppermint oil contains menthol.  This is the substance used in many conventional medications that can help clear up any breathing difficulties.  The vapors produced from peppermint oil can clear out a stuffy nose, help with coughing, and even help stop an asthma attack (although you shouldn’t stop conventional treatment). Dab some under your nose to help with nasal congestion, or add a drop or two to a bowl of hot water and inhale the steam. 

Fresh peppermint tea (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

5. Heart Problems
Peppermint oil has been used to help reduce heart palpitations.  It is also used to make the heart beat better and improve circulation throughout the body.  This can help ease several problems related with circulation difficulties.  Peppermint oil keeps your blood pumping strong. 

In addition to peppermint oil, you may also find some benefit from peppermint tea.  You can even put a few drops of peppermint oil in water for a different, but effective peppermint drink.  If you’re applying the oil directly, it’s best to dilute it in a carrier oil, such as almond oil, before you apply. 

Peppermint oil and tea are wonderful natural cure-alls that are great to have around the house.*

* Information provided is for informational/educational purposes only, and should not be acted upon without first consulting a qualified health professional.

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Using Natural Autumn Scents to Reduce Stress

Stress seems to be an all too common theme in today’s households - there’s simply no way to completely avoid it. After a busy summer, you may be looking forward to a chance to slow down and recuperate a bit. Tapping into your sense of smell using natural ingredients instead of bringing chemicals into your home is a great way to reduce stress.

Apple pie (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

How often does a certain smell bring back fond memories of a place or time; the smell of warm baked cookies or a scent that reminds you of a loving home? The science of using scents to promote good health is called aromatherapy and it’s a much safer option than using caffeine or drugs. Here are some autumn scents to you reduce stress.

Cinnamon – With the temperatures dropping, you may think more about baking. One scent that is often used in fall baking is cinnamon. The smell of a fresh baked apple pie does more than get your mouth watering. Cinnamon has been proven in scientific studies to improve attention and memory.

Peppermint – Along with cinnamon, peppermint is another aroma that has been proven to increase alertness. It helps maintain mental performance when doing the same activity for a long period of time. Peppermint has also been shown to reduce road rage and therefore may be good to keep in your vehicle if you travel a lot.

Vanilla extract (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Vanilla – Another baking scent that is believed to relieve stress is vanilla. Pour a little vanilla extract into a small pan filled with water. Place it on the stove and allow it to simmer for a while. The scent of vanilla will spread throughout the home leaving everyone a little less stressed. Keep an eye on the water level to ensure it doesn’t go dry.

Lavender – One of the most often used scents in aromatherapy, particularly to handle stress, is lavender. This is due to the relaxing properties in the essential oil. Lavender can be used as an additive to bathwater, used dry in bowls on end tables and even spritzed on sheets for a restful night’s sleep.

Sandalwood – Sandalwood oil has a long history of being used as a traditional medicine. Its sweet, rich woody smell is known for reducing stress and soothing the mind and body. While sandalwood can be found in many products such as cosmetics and perfumes, a few drops of this great smelling essential oil can instill a sense of peace like nothing else.

One of the great things about these scents is you can create your own massage oil. Simply add a drop or two of the essential oil into non-scented carrying oil such as almond oil. Gently shake the bottle to blend and then set it aside in a cool, dark place until you’re ready for a massage. What could be better than a soothing scent and a nice massage?

And of course, as we discussed Tuesday, the smell of fresh air in the fall is not only healthy, but is also a great stress reliever!  Get outside and smell the lovely autumn leaves, the scent of the rain, and the health-giving freshness of the fall air.

It is amazing how scents can affect us. When you’re feeling stressed and need to relax, consider using one of these common natural scents during the fall or any time of the year.

The Benefits of Clove Essential Oil

Cloves come from an evergreen tree called Eugenia Caryophyllata. This tree is native to Indonesia, and the dried flower buds are what we know as cloves. The oil is extracted from these buds, and also from the stems and leaves.

Dried cloves (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Clove has been used as a breath freshener and toothache reliever for centuries. Its ability to stave off disease was known in the ancient world, but why it is effective against illness was not known until bacteria and microbes were discovered. Clove has antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral properties.

We can still experience clove's benefits today. Here are some of them.

* Oral health - Using a solution of diluted clove oil as a gargle or mouthwash is effective against sores in the mouth and/or bad breath.

* Athlete's foot - Clove's pleasant scent and antifungal properties make it a good treatment for athlete's foot.

* Tooth and head pain - When diluted with a carrier oil and applied directly to the painful area of the mouth, clove oil numbs pain. Even some commercial preparations intended for oral pain relief contain clove oil. Massaged into the temples, clove oil is also said to relieve headaches.

* Antiseptic - Diluted clove oil makes a soothing antiseptic ointment for cuts and scrapes. Its antimicrobial properties help prevent infection.

* Upper respiratory health - A steamy bowl of hot water with a few drops of clove oil can provide a healing, anti-inflammatory steam that you can inhale.

* Digestion - Clove oil helps treat flatulence and indigestion. When it is added to foods it can help offset some of the negative digestive effects of certain foods.

* Cholera - Several sources suggest that this serious disease can be and has been treated effectively with clove oil.

Oil of cloves can be purchased over the counter at many pharmacies. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

How to Use Clove Oil

Clove oil should always be diluted with a neutral carrier oil such as almond or olive oil if it is to be used topically. It can be diluted in water for gargles, washes, and other treatments. Other suggestions are:

* Clove tea (simmer a teaspoon of cloves in a cup of water)

* Clove lozenges - use clove oil to flavor homemade hard candies.

* A few drops of clove oil added to a cup of carrier oil can be used for massage and as an antiseptic.

* Insect repellent - cloves stuck into an orange or apple, and then dried makes what calls a pomander. This repels insects when hung into a closet or placed in a clothing drawer.

* Foot powder - make an antifungal foot powder by mixing 3 parts cornstarch, 1 part baking soda, and 3-5 drops of clove oil. Shake well.

Natural Remedy: The Many Uses of Tea Tree Oil

Tea tree oil is the essential oil derived from the leaves of the Melaleuca tree.  The tree is found in Australia.  It has been heralded for having anti-fungal, anti-bacterial, and anti-viral properties that make it a favorite among alternative health professionals and natural practitioners.

Rather than using over-the-counter or prescription anti-fungal medicines, you may want to try the natural anti-fungal tea tree oil instead.  Here are just a few ways tea tree oil can be used:

Tea Tree Oil (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

* To treat athlete’s foot
* To treat toe fungus
* To treat acne
* To treat Candida and thrush
* To treat vaginal infections
* To treat contact dermatitis – allergic reactions
* To treat cuts and scrapes
* To treat dandruff, psoriasis and other scalp/hair related dryness and issues
* To treat burns
* To treat lice
* To treat herpes
* To treat Staph infections

Application of Tea Tree Oil

Tea tree oil, unlike other supplements, isn’t to be taken orally.  It’s commonly made into a tincture or added to inactive ingredients before applying directly to the skin.  For example, a common dose is 5-10% tea tree oil in gel or shampoo form.

Full-strength 100% tea tree oil can and is often used to treat fungal nail infections or skin infections.  It can also be used in full form as an antiseptic or antibacterial treatment.  In some products to treat acne, benzoyl peroxide and tea tree oil are both at 5% and combined with inactive ingredients. 

Tea Tree Oil Isn’t Safe for Everyone

Tea tree oil is known to cause allergic reactions in some people, and should not be used if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.  Allergic reactions include mild contact dermatitis to severe blistering rashes.

 (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

A few smaller studies have also connected tea tree oil to altering hormone levels, so if your hormones are sensitive or you are pregnant or breastfeeding it should be avoided.  Additionally, it’s been connected with breast enlargement in boys so adolescent males may want to avoid tea tree oil.

Additionally, while tea tree oil may be found in mouthwash and toothpaste these products should only be used by adults who do not swallow their toothpaste and mouthwash.  Tea tree oil when consumed can cause impaired immune function, diarrhea, fatigue and in extreme cases even coma.

Tea tree oil is one of the wonderful things nature has given us.  However, it isn’t to be taken lightly.  Use it as it's intended, speak with a physician if you have questions or concerns, and enjoy the benefits of this wonderful and powerful oil.


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Video - How To Make Your Own Natural Perfume

Here is a short video of an actual class on making your own natural perfumes. This class gives a basic though somewhat technical overview of the different types of scent you will need to make your own perfume, and an understanding of top, middle, and base notes, and how to combine them into the proper balance. So check this out, and try making your own perfume - feel free to share your own recipes below!

ACHS.edu Making Natural Perfumes
Join Dorene Petersen, President of Australasian College of Health Sciences, as she introduces the easy and fun methods to create your own natural perfumes with essential oils. A free download of the class brochure is available at www.apothecary-shopp...


Essential Oils For Making Perfumes:
   

Smell Good & Feel Good With Natural Essential Oils

If you want to use perfume without all the harmful chemicals we discussed on Monday, making your own is a great way to smell great, and also reap the benefits of various essential oils. Essential oils have been used for centuries to remedy a variety of ailments both physical and emotional.  Some, like peppermint oil are great for digestion while others like grapefruit are known for their fat burning properties.  However, the most common use for essential oils is to help induce a state of relaxation or calming, which is great when it comes to perfume - not only can you smell good, but your perfume may even help you relieve stress! 

Here are 4 essential calming oils and how to use them.

Essential Oils Box (Photo credit: luxomedia)

Rose Oil

Rose oil has several uses including being used as an antidepressant, anti-wrinkle, to treat chronic bronchitis and asthma and to help improve sexual potency.  It’s also used to induce calming and relaxation.  And is said to be able to heal emotions and trauma by bringing warmth to the heart and soul.

It’s often blended with other calming oils to produce an all encompassing calming effect and blends well with Patchouli, Cedarwood Oil, Bergamot, Sandalwood, Chamomile, and Ylang-Ylang.   You can place it in a lotion and apply directly to your skin. You can place rose oil in massage oils or bath products.  You can also place in a diffuser and enjoy the scent in a room that you find calming.  Say your bathroom, bedroom or study.

Lavender Oil

Lavender oil may be the most common essential oil using for relaxation.  You can find it in the grocery store isles in lotions, bath gels, shampoo and even candles.  Lavender is everywhere.  In addition to being wonderful for relaxing and calming, lavender oil can be uses as an analgesic, diuretic, styptic, rheumatism, muscle pain, depression, headaches, hypertension, insomnia, stress and skin diseases.
Like Rose Oil, you can combine it in a number of personal care products including perfume, put a few drops in your bathtub, or place it in a diffuser and enjoy it throughout your home.

Jasmine Oil

Jasmine has a most recognizable fragrance and is commonly used as an aphrodisiac, to treat headaches, for fatigue, to soothe coughs, to improve and tone skin and to calm menstrual issues.  Jasmine is also tremendous oil for calming. 

While jasmine oil is more expensive than just about any other essential oil, it is very powerful oil.  To use you can blend into personal care products like bath gels, massage oils and lotions or you can place a few drops of jasmine oil in a vaporizer and let it permeate your home.

Jasmine oil blends well with Bergamot, Rose, Sandalwood and Citrus oils.

English: Glass vial containing Roman Chamomile (Anthemis nobilis) Essential Oil (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Chamomile Oil

Chamomile oil, both Roman and German, are wonderful for their calming and relaxing properties.  They also help with treating PMS and other menstrual and menopausal problems and to heal and regenerate tissue. 

Many practitioners recommend using Chamomile to treat irritable children and colicky infants.  To use, blend in massage oil, place a few drops in the bath, blend into lotions and creams and place a few drops in a vaporizer or diffuser.

To create a powerful relaxing effect you can blend Chamomile with jasmine, lavender or rose oil. 

Essential oils have many wonderful properties. By combining a few of these, you can create your own signature scent which leaves you feeling happy, calm and peaceful - and without putting a whole bunch of nasty chemicals on your skin. You can also use them in diffusers in your home, to make your whole house smell and feel good. Try making a few of your own signature scents using these calming oils, and feel free to share your favorite recipe below!

  

Skip Artificial Chemicals, and Use Natural Aromatherapy

Aromatherapy oils are oils that are created from natural elements. They’re also called essential oils. They range from lavender to grapefruit and everything in between. They offer a number of therapeutic benefits, cleaning help and even health benefits, and they are MUCH healthier to use around your home than the toxic "air fresheners" that are so popular these days. (I call them "air poisoners," as they smell so noxious to me, and I can't stand breathing them in.)

Here Are Nine Smart Ways of Using Aromatherapy Oils in Your Home

Image via Wikipedia#1 Water Diffuser and Room Freshener.
Add six to eight drops of your favorite scent to a bowl of water. If the water is warm, it will help spread the scent more quickly. You could place the bowl on a table or counter. If you’re really in need of a quick freshening, simply add the drops to a pan of boiling water. Choose your essential oils based on your mood or need. For example, if you want to freshen up your home lemon, verbena, orange or other light scents are ideal. If you’re looking to relax, try lavender or sandalwood.

#2 Room and Linen Deodorizer.
Add a few drops of essential oil to water in a spray bottle. Keep a bottle in your bathroom. Spray near pet areas. Or use the spray to freshen linens. Lavender spray in your bedroom is a great way to add a relaxing scent. A MUCH better choice than the chemical-filled Febreze-type fabric sprays.

#4 Sachet and Closet Freshener.
Add a few drops of essential oils to cotton balls and place in drawers or your closet. Lavender, cedar or sandalwood are nice choices.

#5 Heat Diffuser.
Place a few drops of essential oils on a cotton ball or wool ball and place inside a heating vent. When your furnace kicks on the blower will help spread the scent throughout your home. (Caution: Don't try this with a hot radiator!)

#6 Sinus Remedy.
If you’re ill or struggling with congestion, put a few drops of eucalyptus oil in hot water and place it near your face for a few minutes so you can breathe in the steam. You may consider placing some oil in a hot water vaporizer at bedtime as well.

#7 Refrigerator Deodorizer.
Place several drops of orange, mint or lemon oil in a bucket of warm water. With a clean sponge, use the water to clean out your refrigerator.

#7 Counter Cleaner.
Add lemon, thyme, basil or even geranium oil to equal parts distilled white vinegar and water. Use to clean countertops in your kitchen and bathroom. Cleans just as well as chemical cleaners, and leaves a fresh scent!

Image via Wikipedia#8 Light bulb room freshener.
Here is a nifty and cheap way to freshen a room. Place a drop of your favorite oil on your light bulbs. Make sure to add the oil when the bulbs are cold. When the light is on and the bulb heats up it will heat the oil and fill the room with scent. Consider placing lavender oil on bedroom light bulbs to relax, and invigorating grapefruit or other citrus scent in your home office. All it takes is a drop!

#9 Furniture polish.
Add four to six drops of lemon essential oil to half a cup of olive oil. With a clean dry rag, use the oil to polish wood furniture. Not only will your furniture look beautiful, but your wood will not be releasing toxic chemicals back into the air over time.

Essential oils fill your home with fresh and natural scents. You can be sure you’re providing your loved ones with a safe environment free from harmful chemicals when you use aromatherapy oils to clean and deodorize your home.