Tag: Essential Oils

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General Wellness Kids and Pets

Cultivating Growth Mindset: Positive Learning for a Wonderful School Year 

This past season I needed to step away from the computer screen for a number of reasons. I am a shy, but social creature and too much time not interacting with people face to face has impacted my joy.

A dear and trusted friend asked me to consider driving a school bus with her as a part-time opportunity, I wasn’t sure I would be able to do it, but it has been a blessing in so many ways. I have been a coach and a trainer for more years than I can remember, and coaching adults has always been something I was comfortable doing. Working with the kiddos on the other hand, while driving a 16 ton chunk of metal down the street, remembering all of their names, and where they lived!? Well, I wasn’t sure I could do it. I had limiting beliefs.

I am a Mother too

Working as much as I did, back when my own children were in school, I probably wasn’t as involved as their work from home father was. But interacting with the children I now have the pleasure to drive to and from school, and having a handful of friends who either teach from home or at school, I am confident to share with you some recommendations to empower you and your students to make this year an enjoyable and productive one.

A corporate trainer and essential oils educator

For over 30 years I have been an adult educator and trainer. With each consecutive year of coaching and training, I have learned the importance of setting the stage for success. Over the next few weeks, I will be sharing some of the lessons I’ve learned – creating healthy habits, the power of communication, and creating an environment for learning.

Positive Learning

Remember the Staples back to school commercial with “It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year” playing, the dad is dancing through the store loading a shopping cart with school supplies. When he took the pencils and dropped them in the cart like a chef adding spices to a dish… I laughed so hard the first time I saw that commercial!

This week we’re diving into the growth mindset. What it is and how we can help our kids of all ages (I’ll call them students here), develop that growth and can-do mentality, for a Positive Learning experience.

WHAT IS A GROWTH MINDSET?

Not to be confused with a fixed mindset…this is as good as I’ll ever be…growth mindset was first coined by Carol Dweck, a professor of Psychology at Stanford University. She describes someone with a growth mindset as an “individual who believes their talents can be developed through hard work, good strategies, and help from others”.

HOW DO I HELP BUILD THAT MINDSET?

As parents, grandparents, and influencing guides, we play a major role in nurturing our student’s mindset. We’re laying the groundwork for academic and personal growth. We want to enforce the belief that intelligence and abilities can blossom through effort, learning, and resilience. So, what does building a growth mindset look like for students? 

  1. First, consider the student’s original mindset. Does the student have any limiting beliefs? How often do you hear comments like: “I wasn’t born with the talent/ability to do xyz,” or  “I’m not good at math”, or as adults you may hear “I’m just not organized”. I’ve heard my fair share over the years. I’ve even said plenty of limiting comments to myself, “I’m too shy”, or “too old”, or as I mentioned before, “I don’t know if I have the patience for all of those children”… you get the point. Being aware of how we speak to and about ourselves is always the first step to improving our mindset. 
  2. Next, help the student to rephrase the thought, to see it from a positive perspective. “Boy, I couldn’t have done that a year ago. Look how far I’ve come,” or “Wow, by doing that extra studying, I aced the test”, or “I thought I would be frightened and mess up my speech, but once I got started it came natural”. Eventually this will start to become a natural habit. 
  3. Another way to help enforce the growth mindset is to have the student think about things they’ve already accomplished…learning how to ride a bike, writing cursive, memorizing the multiplication tables, playing an instrument, or mastering another skill. Remind them of things they have accomplished.
  4. Rather than focusing solely on outcomes, we should celebrate efforts and strategies. If done with kind intention, feedback is a great tool. Providing positive reinforcement for achievements, big or small, reinforces the idea that hard work and dedication lead to progress.
  5. The power of YET. I wish I had learned this a long time ago. Teach them to embrace the power of “yet.” There is still plenty of opportunity to grow in whatever area they are struggling with. At the beginning of each school year, there are plenty of concepts and skills a student hasn’t learned…yet. Help them to realize, with practice and perseverance, this skill will grow. Growth mindset is realizing you’re not done growing…yet. 
  1. For older students, look for people that are already where they want to be. Read books on those who inspire them. Look at how they approached the challenges in their life and how they overcame them. What can be learned from their struggles to help apply to your student child’s goals and dreams? 
  2. Mistakes should be viewed as valuable learning experiences, not as failures. As guides, we need to encourage them to think critically and come up with solutions on their own. We empower them to develop problem-solving skills and self-confidence. Mistakes are NOT failures, they are lessons. We only FAIL when we make the MISTAKE to not try again. 
  3. Break bigger goals into smaller attainable ones. I have heard and say this often, “How do you eat an elephant? …One bite at a time.” Breaking down a bigger goal into smaller bite size goals helps create the positive mindset that our students CAN accomplish something huge. 

CREATING ROUTINES

Setting the stage, or providing an environment for progress is helpful too. We do it throughout our house. Bedroom walls are dark, and there are limited and no electronic screens to distract from a good nights sleep. And my office is set up with inspirational, and motivational quotes to help my mindset and keep me focused on my task. Aromatics are also a key part of our household to help with mindset.

Diffusing is a great way to create an environment that nurtures a growth mindset. If I am down in my sewing room, that happens to be near the cat boxes, I can not get much accomplished if the odor from the cats is distracting me.

When one of my students is struggling to remember that they’re not there YET, I have them grab one of these oils to diffuse and help refocus:

  1. Rosemary: Boosts focus and memory! Rosemary essential oil can enhance cognitive function, helping you stay sharp and attentive during study sessions or while working on goals.
  2. Lemon: Stay motivated and uplifted! Lemon essential oil is known for its mood-boosting properties, promoting a positive and optimistic outlook on life, even when faced with challenges.
  3. Ylang–Ylang: Embrace self-love and confidence! Ylang-ylang essential oil can help develop a strong sense of self-worth and emotional empowerment to believe in those natural abilities.
  4. Wild Orange: Foster creativity and inspiration! Sweet orange essential oil can spark imagination and encourage innovative thinking, helping find unique solutions to challenges.
  5. Frankincense: Cultivate mindfulness and reflection! Frankincense essential oil promotes a sense of inner peace, making it a perfect companion for self-reflection and personal growth.
  6. Lavender: Manage stress and promote resilience! Lavender essential oil is a soothing companion during tough times, encouraging a calm and collected response to setbacks.
  7. Peppermint: Enhance mental clarity and alertness! Peppermint essential oil can clear the mind, making it easier to absorb new knowledge and approach tasks with a fresh perspective.

So to recap this week about Mindset

Remember, developing a growth mindset is all about believing in the potential to learn and grow. A Positive Learning experience is aided with the support of essential oils. Students will be better equipped to face challenges, embrace setbacks as learning opportunities, and achieve dreams, with the aromatic support the essential oils offer. 

Now, back to that commercial with the song, “It’s the most wonderful time of the year.” It truly can be a magical time of the year for our children. It’s the start of something fresh and new. A new opportunity to create and learn and grow. We want our kids to be excited and feel empowered as they embark on this new year.

This whole month is dedicated to helping parents help students start the new school year off on the right track. 

Jennie Knourek

Herbalist, Phyto/Aromatherapist & Wellness Advocate. Trained Massage Therapist

WA#2923893

Owner/Admin of OpenRoadEssentials.com and Crunchy Biker Clubhouse and Healthy Happy Strong Tribe on Facebook

Join my FREE Online Class to Learn More about Essential Oils

Wholesale Club Pricing

If you are not yet a wholesale member yet, (in my opinion this is better value than Costco or Sams Club), then I would personally like to invite you can join our team to take advantage of these great savings promotions, and additional benefits available to doTERRA members.  JOIN & SAVE

Wholesale Customers who are not Wellness Advocates would need to contact their doTERRA sponsor to enroll someone or simply ask how you can host a class or upgrade your account to enroll someone their self !!

As a Wellness Advocate, you can enroll members, friends, a family from your back office or from your personal doTERRA website (which all Wellness Advocate members have).  It offers a great way to offer insight and information to people regarding the membership and the products and has some great recipes and project ideas too.  CHECK OUT OUR SITE HERE

Categories
General Wellness recipe

DIY: Fresh Raspberry Jam

I am far from the Goddess in my own Kitchen, but when I have something fresh on hand I am fearless with finding a way to use it… so here is my quick recipe for the fresh raspberries I am pulling from my garden. I hope you enjoy this Fresh Raspberry Jam as much as I do.

Raspberries – use fresh berries in good condition, ideally with some slightly unripe berries as they will contain more pectin.

Sugar – regular granulated sugar is best but you can also use brown sugar… I use 1/2 of the volume of raspberries to reduce the sugars content and bring out the natural sweetness of the berries

Lemon juice – use freshly squeezed lemon juice. The juice is vital, it aids in the setting of the jam. ( today I used a lime, because that is what I had on hand)

Wild Orange Essential Oil – With multiple health benefits from internal use and an uplifting, energizing aroma when used aromatically. This is Cold Pressed/Expressed from the Orange rinds (peel). Main Constituent is Limonene (Limonene acts as an antioxidant in the body, absorbing and removing damaging free radicals before they can injure cells. Dietary limonene may help lower your risk of certain cancers and signs of aging by reducing the amount of oxidative stress on your body).

My most trusted Wild Orange Essential Oil is from doTERRA

– Learn More HERE

Other uses for Wild Orange Oil

Instructions for the Fresh Raspberry Jam:

To begin, place two small saucers or plates in the freezer. You will use these to test when the jam is set.

Sterilize the jars by heating them in the oven. Full directions are in the recipe below.

  1. Wash and thoroughly dry the raspberries. Add the raspberries, sugar and lemon juice to a large saucepan and mix well with a wooden spoon.
  2. Turn the heat on low, stir until the sugar dissolves and then increase the heat to a rolling boil. 3. Boil for 10 minutes stirring frequently. Turn off the heat and spoon a little of the jam onto a chilled saucer.
  3. Let it stand for 30 seconds to cool, then run your finger through it. If it wrinkles, it is ready. If it is still quite liquid, put it back on the heat and boil for a further 1-2 minutes, and retest.
  4. Allow the Raspberry Jam to sit for 10 minutes before carefully ladling into jars. This helps the chunks of fruit to disperse evenly throughout the jam.
  5. Ladle the hot jam into jars and seal immediately.

Enjoy your delicious jam!

Jennie Knourek

Herbalist, Phyto/Aromatherapist & Wellness Advocate. Trained Massage Therapist

WA#2923893

Owner/Admin of OpenRoadEssentials.com and Crunchy Biker Clubhouse and Healthy Happy Strong Tribe on Facebook

Join my FREE Online Class to Learn More about Essential Oils

Categories
General Wellness Healthy Home Hormone Support

Ditch and Switch toxic items for a healthier home

DITCH and SWITCH is one of the ways I have worked on creating a more healthy home environment for my family.

Identifying the sources in our homes and switching out with safe and natural products is a great place to start.

Many years ago when I trained to be a Massage Therapist I learned our skin is our body’s largest organ. It is also one of the most common pathways of toxic exposure so be mindful of the things you put on your skin. Many common personal care products have less than ideal ingredients. doTERRA’s skincare line and solutions have ingredients that were carefully selected to be as safe and gentle for your skin and your body as a whole.

Reduce toxins in the air

Your body absorbs toxins through the air you breathe. You can keep the air in your household clean in number of ways. Replace artificial air fresheners with essential oils, ditch your traditional cleaners for natural substances, and keep indoor plants to clean the air.

One of the easiest ways to get started reducing toxins in your home is to scout out all the ways you normally make you or your air smell better.

Not only are these commonly filled with toxins and junk, but they can also be huge fire hazards.

You may even have a friend or know someone who has a friend who is selling Norwex products! I too am a big fan of these as they not only allow us to do an exceptional job cleaning our surfaces without extra chemical cleaners… they also save us a ton on paper towels!!

In the past, if we wanted better, more natural choices for cleaning around the house, we had to make our own.

…Thankfully, doTERRA has us covered with the On Guard cleaning Product Line.

The Cleaner Concentrate is my favorite product because I really do use it in everything.

A squirt in my dishwasher to boost the washing power, a capful in my spray bottle to wipe down all my surfaces, and even a splash in my steam mop to make my floors look awesome and my house smell great.

DIY’s just not your thing? – I understand! Most of us either don’t have time to or simply just don’t wish to make our own everything. But understanding how effective we can clean without all of those nasty ingredients and you will understand the importance of “Less is More” when it comes to supporting our bodies and avoiding toxins.

Let me share more about what to look for and why…

I would like to share with you some of the nasty chemicals that are included in many of the commercial products we bring into our home.

Some of these are pretty scary and although there are those that will argue that the amounts are so minimal they aren’t going to affect you, consider your lifetime of using these products, or occupational exposure? (like manufacturing or product use on a daily basis, like a Salon worker)?

On a personal note, I know I didn’t develop any allergies until after I reached the age of 30! Over time these chemicals really build up! What about your kids and grandchildren!? Have you ever wondered why kids are physically developing earlier than when we were young or even our grandparents? Everything we clean with, eat and wear has some type of “money-saving” chemical added to extend shelf life, preserve color, and bottom-line make the manufacturer more money. …but that is another sad story for another time.

Let’s focus on the chemicals to look for and to avoid as you are looking to Ditch and Switch for your family.

Many products list “fragrance” on the label, but very few name the specific ingredients that make up a “fragrance.”

This lack of disclosure prevents consumers from knowing the full list of ingredients in their products. While most fragrance chemicals are not disclosed, we do know that some are linked to serious health problems such as cancer, reproductive and developmental toxicity, allergies, and sensitivities. Clearly, there is a need for stronger regulations, more research, and greater transparency.

Butoxyethanol:

The ingredients below are not indicated by authoritative bodies as potential concerns for use in products, but they can have adverse effects on the workers who make the products, or on salon workers who use them repeatedly.

FOUND IN: Most personal care products including sunscreen, shampoo, soap, body wash, deodorant, body lotion, makeup, facial cream, skin toner, serums, exfoliating scrubs and perfume.

Butoxyethanol is a skin, eye, nose, and throat irritant.

Exposure can lead to blood in the urine, vomiting, and nausea with long-term damage to the kidneys, liver, lymphoid system, nervous system, respiratory system, and blood cells.

Butoxyethanol is also a reproductive toxicant. The IARC (a global agency researching causes of the terrible condition that starts with a “C”) confirms the carcinogenicity of butoxyethanol in experimental animals. Both the European Union and Canada restrict butoxyethanol in consumer products.

Learn more about 2-butoxyethanol & SLES by clicking the picture or HERE

Thankfully, an easy, healthier solution is available! You are here so you are already learning about the benefits of essential oils and probably already have them.

Step one: essential oils – done

Step two: simply add 10-20 drops of your favorite citrus oil like lemon or wild orange or a cleaning oil or blend like OnGuard blend, Lemon oil, Cilantro, or Tea Tree to a 4oz glass bottle and you will have an amazing solution to replace a number of surface and window cleaners.

When I don’t feel up to DIY-ing it, I just grab a bottle of the OnGuard Cleaner Concentrate. It only needs a little and really lasts a long time. It is very effective a cleaning all of my kitchen and bath surfaces with just a tablespoon or two to an 8oz glass spray bottle. This simple all-natural surface cleaner smells amazing and provides all of the viral and bacterial fighting properties of commercial products without all the toxins!

We have completely Ditched and Switched the hand soap and body soaps at our sinks and showers with doTERRA’s foaming hand wash and one or two of the many scented and natural soap bars in the spa area. There is also less soap scum to deal with on our shower walls… what does that tell us?

I love to fill my pumps at the beginning of the week and add a little extra Wild Orange to the mix for a few extra happy feelings when I wash my hands.

Formaldehyde and formaldehyde-releasing preservatives (FRPs).

Did you know, these are used in many personal care products,[1] particularly in shampoos and liquid baby soaps? These chemicals, which are intended to prevent microbes from growing in water-based products, can be absorbed through the skin and have been linked to cancer and allergic skin reactions.

FOUND IN: Nail polish, nail glue, eyelash glue, hair gel, hair-smoothing products, baby shampoo, body soap, body wash, color cosmetics, fresheners, plug-ins, perfunes, and candles.

Learn more about Formaldehyde HERE

Find a diffuser you love or add a couple of drops to a spray bottle of water and witch hazel for a lasting fabric spray.

There is plenty of recommendations on any number of oil combinations that you can add to your diffuser. I prefer to make my own blends and only trust doTERRA for it’s purity and efficacy standards. And we diffuse in every room in the house.

There are also oils that purify the air and smell amazing like Air-X, Island Mint, Citrus Bliss, OnGuard, Breathe, just to name a few.

The fun thing is you can also make your own blends! This can be fun and you will eliminate those smells like pets, dirty clothes, cigars, kitchen odors, and more.

Are there cheaper oils available? Of course, there is just like you can purchase disposable and less expensive products at the dollar store. This is an unregulated industry, and Brokers and Distributors will adulterate, a single oil or a blend to make more volume, sell it at cheaper prices in hopes to make more money. But what are you really getting? Would you really feel comfortable putting it into the air you breathe or on your skin?

So yes, there are cheaper essential oils on the market, and we are looking to reducing toxic load right!? So be vigilant, do your homework! You really do get what you pay for, and that is why I trust doTERRA. They are committed to purity and the science of efficacy (when and how a plant is grown, harvested, and extracted will affect how it works), and doTERRA will never choose profit over purity.

Let’s keep rollin’ with those healthy swaps. Hand wash is such an easy swap.

Learn more about Triclosan HERE

DITCH and SWITCH some of your Personal hair care products! Remember, I am not suggesting you be wasteful and just throw things away… but if it’s broken, and you can’t fix it… well it’s time to go!

I love the doTERRA hair care line, and they are always looking to improve it. Not only is it safe for your hair color, it’s also super concentrated to save you money.

If you are a wholesale club member you can set it up in your Loyalty Reward Order will save you even more with bundle discounts, and product and shipping credits. Who doesn’t love free stuff?

I love the scent of the shampoo and the Root to Tip Serum is so amazing at controlling my hair. I apply the Root to Tip Serum after every shampoo to help me comb through my wet hair and condition and strengthen the ends… this is particularly helpful during the summer months when we are out on the bike in the sun and the wind. But it also helps in the dry environments of our home while the heat is on and the windows closed up. My point is that no matter where you live, this serum is natural and save to use and you will love how it works.

Learn more about Phthalates HERE

If you would like to learn more about Avoiding Toxins you can also visit the doTERRA Science Blog. HERE

Are you interested in getting your own doTERRA collection started for a Ditch and Switch of your toxic home products? Why not get them at wholesale prices!?

Jennie Knourek

Herbalist, Phyto/Aromatherapist & Wellness Advocate. Trained Massage Therapist

WA#2923893

Owner/Admin of OpenRoadEssentials.com and Crunchy Biker Clubhouse and Healthy Happy Strong Tribe on Facebook

Join my FREE Online Class to Learn More about Essential Oils

Categories
General Wellness Getting Started herbs Immune Support

Oregano Essential Oil

doTERRA Oregano Oil

What Is Oregano Oil?


Oregano oil is derived from the leaves and flowers of oregano (Origanum vulgare), a hardy, bushy perennial herb, and a member of the mint (Lamiaceae) family. It’s native to Europe, although it grows in many areas around the world.


The plant grows up to 90 centimeters (35 inches) high, with dark green leaves that are 2 to 3 centimeters (.7 to 1.18 inches) long. The ancient Greeks and Romans have a profound appreciation for oregano, using it for various medicinal uses. In fact, its name comes from the Greek words “oros” and “ganos,” which are words for mountain and joy — oregano literally means “joy of the mountain.”


It was revered as a symbol of happiness, and it was an ancient tradition to crown brides and grooms with a laurel of oregano. There are over 40 oregano species, but the most therapeutically beneficial is the oil produced from wild oregano or Origanum vulgare that’s native to Mediterranean regions.


Beware, though, as many of the oregano oils sold in grocery stores are not made from this variety, and may have little to no therapeutic value.

Opt only for oregano oil made from Origanum vulgare and Thymus capitatus, a variety that grows in Spain. To obtain oregano oil, the dried flowers and leaves of the wild oregano plant are harvested when the oil content of the plant is at its highest, and then distilled. The resulting oil is golden to dark yellow, with a strong spicy odor.


Uses of Oregano Oil:
I highly recommend adding oregano oil to your arsenal of natural healing tools, as it has a wide range of uses. This herbal oil is a powerful antimicrobial that can help fight off infections. Oregano oil also has antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal properties.

Other ideal uses for oregano oil are:
• Treating foot or nail fungus. Put a few teaspoons of oregano oil in a basin of water and soak your feet in it. You can also dilute the oil (mix a drop with a teaspoon of olive or coconut oil), and then apply it on your nails or skin.
• Help in killing parasites and easing infections. Dilute the oil (mix a drop with a drop of a carrier oil such as coconut oil), and place it under your tongue. Hold it there for a few minutes, and then rinse it out. Repeat this at least four times a day.
• Alleviating sinus infections and colds. Put a few drops of oregano oil in a pot of steaming water, and then inhale the steam.
I also encourage using the antiseptic powers of this herbal oil to clean your home. Here’s one way how: combine four drops of oregano oil with 10 drops of lemon oil and a quarter-cup of white vinegar, and then add to a bucket of water. Use this mixture to wipe and clean surfaces.


Benefits of Oregano Oil

Oregano oil has wide-reaching health benefits, but is most associated with respiratory and immune system health. It is known for helping prevent and treat infections, such as:
• Urinary tract infections (UTIs) caused by bacteria like E. coli, Proteus,and Pseudomonas aeruginosa.
• Respiratory infections brought on by Klebsiella pneumoniae and Staphylococcus aureus bacteria strains.
• Yeast infections, even those that are resistant to the commonly used antifungal drug Diflucan.
• Parasitic infections caused by the amoeba giardia — it was even found to be more effective than antibiotics like Tinidazol.
• Methicillin-resistant staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) infection — A team of Indian and British researchers found that oregano oil has strong antibacterial properties that can help kill this deadly superbug.


Oregano oil has also shown promise in preventing food-borne illnesses caused by pathogens like listeria, salmonella, E. coli, and Shigella dysenteria. Adding it to foods not only helps kill the bacteria, but may also alleviate food poisoning symptoms.

An animal study from University of Arizona researchers also found that oregano oil can help kill norovirus, which causes gastroenteritis. Oregano oil is also a prized antiseptic essential oil in aromatherapy because its proportion of phenols is said to be the highest of all aromatic plants.


Aside from using the steam method to help relieve coughs and other respiratory illnesses, you can also use it to:
• Ward off insects. Carvacrol in oregano oil works as a natural insect repellant. Try putting a few drops on outdoor furniture, or apply a diluted mixture on your skin when heading outdoors.
• Relieve bug bites and rashes, including poison ivy rash. Apply oregano oil diluted with olive oil on the affected areas.
• Help heal cold sores, dandruff, and other skin conditions. Some experts also advocate using a diluted version to treat acne and rosacea.
• Ease sore throat. Simply add a few drops to a glass of water. It can help alleviate toothache as well.
• Help relieve muscle and joint pain, rheumatoid arthritis (RA), sprains, and cramps

Learn more about the benefits of essential oils and how you can incorporated them safely and with confidence. I am passionate about educating others how to seek healthy alternatives. You can attend one of our educational classes HERE

Wholesale Club Pricing

If you are not yet a wholesale member yet, (in my opinion this is better value than Costco or Sams Club), then I would personally like to invite you can join our team to take advantage of these great savings promotions, and additional benefits available to doTERRA members.  JOIN & SAVE

Wholesale Customers who are not Wellness Advocates would need to contact their doTERRA sponsor to enroll someone or simply ask how you can host a class or upgrade your account to enroll someone their self !!

As a Wellness Advocate, you can enroll members, friends, a family from your back office or from your personal doTERRA website (which all Wellness Advocate members have).  It offers a great way to offer insight and information to people regarding the membership and the products and has some great recipes and project ideas too.  CHECK OUT OUR SITE HERE

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

Jennie Knourek

Herbalist, Phyto/Aromatherapist & Wellness Advocate. Trained Massage Therapist

WA#2923893

Owner/Admin of OpenRoadEssentials.com and Crunchy Biker Clubhouse and Healthy Happy Strong Tribe on Facebook

Join my FREE Online Class to Learn More about Essential Oils

Categories
General Wellness

Turkey, Cheese, and Cranberry Mustard Panini

Paninis are perfect for cooler weather!

Left overs are the best! But this panini recipe will have you and your family thinking this is the main dish.

If I have even used sliced turkey from the deli, but use the white meat leftovers after Thanksgiving and be sure to stash away and freeze leftover turkey breast from that delicious bird, you will want to have these again in the future.

The mustard/cranberry spread is so amazing for this recipe you will love it!!

I even used Rosemary Oil in my stuffing recipe for Thanksgiving dinner because I didn’t have fresh or dried rosemary available…

Ingredients

Sliced Whole-wheat Bread
8 oz Turkey Breast
4 oz Cheese sliced (brie or provolone, your choice)
1 cup Cranberry sauce
1 tsp Apple Cider Vinegar
2 tsp Olive Oil
4 tsp ground Mustard
2 drops Rosemary essential oil
Salt

Instructions

1. Mix the cranberry sauce, mustard, olive oil, and Rosemary oil together in a bowl.

2. Heat up a grill or panini press over medium heat.

3. Lay out four slices of bread on the griddle. Layer each slice with cheese of choice, turkey, and a layer of cranberry mustard. Add the second piece of bread to the top and brush with olive oil.

4. Once toasted, cut each panini in half and serve.

No need to thank me, but please comment back and let us know what you think.

Jennie Knourek

Herbalist, Phyto/Aromatherapist & Wellness Advocate. Trained Massage Therapist

WA#2923893

Owner/Admin of OpenRoadEssentials.com and Crunchy Biker Clubhouse and Healthy Happy Strong Tribe on Facebook

Join my FREE Online Class to Learn More about Essential Oils

Categories
General Wellness Nervous System recipe

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Events and Classes General Wellness Nervous System Skin Support

Cypress Essential Oil

The scent of any evergreen is like heaven to me. But I am always fascinated with the unique benefits that the different evergreens offer on a chemical and aromatic level.

If you struggle with oily skin, the natural chemical components of Cypress essential oil can help improve the appearance of an oily complexion. Simply add a drop or two of Cypress essential oil to your skin toner to improve an oily complexion without drying the skin out.

One of the ways I love to use Cypress is in my haircare routine. It is a simple and cost effective way to add that extra something to my shampoo and conditioner without the costly price tag.

Oily Scalp!?

I have my dad’s oily scalp and usually within a day after shampooing my hair can feel weighed down and heavy… This is what I do… I apply 1-2 drops of oil to hands, and Massage into hair and scalp before bath or shower; then shampoo and rinse hair as normal.

I also will add 1-2 drop of oil to 2 TBS of an unscented shampoo or shower gel, and use to shampoo hair.

You will love the powerful, clean refreshing scent of Cypress essential oil. Not only does this oil have a strong, unique scent, but its uses are both vast and practical.

You get the best of both worlds with Cypress!

doTERRA® Cypress essential oil is a blend of two species: “Cupressus sempervirens” and “Cupressus lusitanica.” This creates the perfect blend of chemical constituents and provides jobs in multiple communities. These species are sourced from Morocco, Spain, and Kenya.

Listen to a replay of this Podcast to learn more HERE

ORDER HERE


In addition to its benefits for the skin, Cypress essential oil has a very distinct aroma that promotes energy and vitality. For an energizing boost, place a few drops of Cypress in your essential oil diffuser.

Cypress essential oil pairs well with other refreshing essential oils like Lemon, Grapefruit, Bergamot, Lime, and Lavender.

You can also take advantage of the invigorating and energizing benefits of Cypress oil by applying it topically. You can apply Cypress to the feet and legs for vitality before working out, or to the chest to promote energy. When applying Cypress essential oil topically, you can and I recommend you add a carrier oil or lotion, like Fractionated Coconut Oil, or a non scented Body Lotion for easy application.

Not only will Cypress essential oil invigorate the body when applied topically, and the senses when diffused aromatically, but the chemical makeup of Cypress makes it grounding yet stimulating for the emotions.

This makes it a useful oil during times of transition or loss, when you may be experiencing unsettled emotions. To experience the grounding and stimulating benefits of Cypress oil, you can add a few drops to a bath with Epsom salts, or simply rub a drop or two between the palms and inhale.

Cypress (Cupressus sempervirens)

The clean, fresh aroma of Cypress essential oil promotes vitality and energy, while topical application helps to invigorate the senses.

Description

Derived from the branches of the tall evergreen tree, Cypress essential oil has a fresh, clean aroma that’s energizing and refreshing.

Cypress is frequently used in spas and by massage therapists. And Cypress essential oil can be diffused or inhaled directly, but in its distilled concentrated form it should not be swallowed or taken internally. Cypress contains monoterpenes, making it beneficial for oily skin conditions. It has a grounding, yet stimulating effect on emotions, making it a popular oil to diffuse during times of transition or loss.

Uses

  • Prior to a long run, apply to feet and legs for an energizing boost.
  • Apply two to three drops to the chest before gardening to promote vitality and energy.
  • Diffuse with Lime essential oil for an invigorating scent.
  • Mix together Cypress and Grapefruit essential oils with doTERRA Fractionated Coconut Oil for an invigorating massage.
  • Add one to two drops to toner to help improve the appearance of oily skin.

Directions for Use

Diffusion: Use three to four drops in the diffuser of your choice.
Topical use: Apply one to two drops to desired area. Dilute with doTERRA Fractionated Coconut Oil to minimize any skin sensitivity.

Primary Benefits

  • Promotes vitality and energy
  • Helps improve the appearance of oily skin

Cautions

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

PLEASE NOTE: Because of its chemical properties, Cypress essential oil should never be swallowed or used internally.

Learn more about Cypress Oil and get your own bottle at wholesale

Our Preferred choice in Essential oils is directly from the wholesale provider and producer of the oil.   Exclusive partnership relationships with generations of harvesters and growers and a company whose integrity and caring are second to none.  A Customer Service department with a caring commitment to quality control and support of their customer base and direct guarantees from the company to ensure quality, efficacy, and potency.  

If you would like to get a bottle of cypress with a wholesale account and our favorite recommendation for an unscented lotion you can get started today HERE

Jennie Knourek

Herbalist, Phyto/Aromatherapist & Wellness Advocate. Trained Massage Therapist

WA#2923893

Owner/Admin of OpenRoadEssentials.com and Crunchy Biker Clubhouse and Healthy Happy Strong Tribe on Facebook

Join my FREE Online Class to Learn More about Essential Oils

Categories
General Wellness Healthy Home Women

CLEANING Tip

Staying healthy is about cleaning hands often and surfaces. Seems logical right!? Sounds familiar from growing up! I’m pretty sure I preached the same to my kids when they were younger as well. 

It makes perfect sense! Wash away the germs before we put our fingers in our mouth or rub our faces or our eyes!! I have to admit, now that I am aware, I never realized How Much I Touched My Face!! CRAZY, Right!?

Let’s face it, reducing toxic load is one step easier on our body to fight what ailes us!

My thoughts… if we eliminate toxins, our bodies can focus on fighting disease.  This is why I have replaced candles and plug-ins with diffusers, and commercial deodorants and lotions with natural homemade alternatives, and over the counter options with CPTG essential oils…

CLEANING TIP:

For those of you who love OnGuard… You will love OnGuard Concentrated Cleaner!! 

I use this everywhere!! 
– Stainless (watch video below)
– Granite
– Countertops
– Microwave/inside fridge
– Wood floors
– tile floors
– windows
– furniture
– pets water bowls
– coffee pot
– vinyl
– leather (the citrus oils are amazing at conditioning leather and there isn’t any alcohol to dry it out!)

… Boyz be like🤯

Watch this quick video on how clean my stove gets with a paper towel and OnGuard Cleaner…

ALL NATURAL! NON-toxic. ONGUARD Concentrated Cleaner

It’s time for a new one. 😉

ADD it to your year-end shopping cart!  (This one has lasted me 8 months!)  

LEARN MORE

Categories
herbs Immune Support Nervous System Skin Support Women

Ancient Oils

The doTERRA Ancient Oils Collection is inspired by the peoples of the distant past. The Collection comes in a beautifully designed, natural wood box and includes six essential oils used by the most important people in the world as for their health benefits and to improve wellbeing in ancient times—CPTG® Myrrh, Frankincense, Galbanum, Hyssop, Cistus, and Common Myrtle.

Take pleasure in these captivating oils.

Myrrh Commiphora myrrha 5 mL: Ancient records show that Myrrh was deemed so valuable that at times it was valued at its weight in gold. Myrrh has been used throughout history in perfumes and religious ceremonies, and for its internal and external health benefits.

Frankincense Boswellia carterii, Boswellia sacra, Boswellia papyrifera, Boswellia frereana 5 mL: In addition to its notoriety in the New Testament, the Babylonians and Assyrians would burn Frankincense in religious ceremonies and the ancient Egyptians used Frankincense resin in everything from perfume to salves for soothing skin.

Galbanum Ferula galbaniflua 5 mL: Egyptians used Galbanum for incense and embalming. The Roman and Greek civilizations used it in beauty products and perfume. Hippocrates used it for its other benefits. Galbanum was even mentioned in the Bible.

Hyssop Hyssopus officinalis 2.5 mL: Hyssop, a member of mint family, was regarded by both the Greeks and the Hebrews as a sacred herb. It is mentioned several times in the Old Testament and is known as one of oldest herbs used by human beings.

Cistus Cistus ladaniferus 5 mL: Also known as Rock Rose, Sun Rose, Rose of Sharon, and Labdanum, use of Cistus for perfume and incense was known in Biblical times. For centuries, Cistus has been used during meditation and for other benefits.

Common Myrtle Myrtus communis 5 mL: Common Myrtle, also known as Corsican pepper, has been used for thousands of years as a symbol of love, honor, happiness, and generosity. Its benefits were well known as early as 600 B.C. In the Bible, it was used in purification ceremonies.

Directions for Use

Diffusion: Use three to four drops in the diffuser of your choice.

Topical use: Apply one to two drops to desired area. Dilute with a carrier oil to minimize any skin sensitivity. See additional precautions below.

Get your collection Here

Cautions

Possible skin sensitivity. Keep out of reach of children. If you are pregnant, nursing, or under a doctor’s care, consult your physician. Avoid contact with eyes, inner ears, and sensitive areas. Galbanum, Hyssop, Cistus, Common Myrtle: Not for internal use.

Jennie Knourek

Herbalist, Phyto/Aromatherapist & Wellness Advocate. Trained Massage Therapist

WA#2923893

Owner/Admin of OpenRoadEssentials.com and Crunchy Biker Clubhouse and Healthy Happy Strong Tribe on Facebook

Join my FREE Online Class to Learn More about Essential Oils

Categories
General Wellness

Black Spruce Oil

picea mariana

The name mariana means “of Maryland.” Phillip Miller, who named the species, felt that Maryland epitomized North America – but the species does not actually grow there!

A powerful wood essential oil, Black Spruce is distilled from the needles and branches of the Picea Mariana tree. Known to create a relaxing atmosphere, start your day off with the cooling and soothing benefits of Black Spruce. Co-impact sourced by doTERRA from Canada, we absolutely love the scent of this little bottle of oil!

As I learn more about these oils and share them with you I hope you come to appreciate their benefits as well.

Here is some of the science a story on the sourcing of this beneficial oil Contributed by Dr. Damian Rodriguez DHSc, MS

Black Spruce is one of the most interesting essential oil stories. 

Picea mariana dominates the landscape of much of Alaska and specific regions of Canada because of its ability to flourish in areas with long winters and varying topography.

This abundance of growth creates a significant problem: waste. Along with having a myriad of well-being promoting benefits that are unique in the essential oil world, the extraction of Black Spruce essential oil is the epitome of environmental stewardship.

The Carrier people used black spruce wood to make fish traps. Other aboriginal people made snowshoe frames and drying racks. They also used powdered resin on wounds to speed healing.

How Does doTERRA Source Black Spruce?

Black Spruce trunks are generally considered too small and too soft for timber so they are primarily used in paper and various other wood-based products, such as chopsticks. Once the trunks have been stripped, the remnants are basically left to rot. This creates a significant issue that affects both the environment and the local economy.

Together with its harvesting partner, doTERRA figured out an environmentally responsible way to use what ultimately may be the most valuable parts of the Black Spruce tree: the branches and leaves (needles) that contain the woody, slightly balsamic smelling essential oils.

  • First, the remaining branches and needles are steam distilled
  • then the remaining mash is burned by a local power plant
  • the resulting steam is used to facilitate the extraction of more essential oils.

doTERRA has facilitated an ingenious close-looped system that benefits the environment, several different businesses, and especially all of us, who now have access to this wonderful essential oil.

The Chemistry of Black Spruce

Essential oils from spruce species are quite rare and unique.

Some varieties, such as Hemlock, Norway, and White spruces do produce essential oil, but with far less yield and spectrum of benefits than Picea mariana.

Furthermore, while most tree-derived essential oils share a handful of similar characteristics (they are great for the skin and hair) offering aromas to calm and ground emotions, Black Spruce is a little different. The composition of Black Spruce essential oil is dominated by two compounds you might want to familiarize yourself with, bornyl acetate and alpha-pinene. But Black Spruce also has a complex mixture including significant concentrations of camphene and delta-3-carene.

Benefits and Uses of Black Spruce

Due to this distinct chemical makeup, Black Spruce has some properties you might not normally associate with tree oils.

For instance, Black Spruce is surface cleansing, likely due to its concentration of delta-3-carene1.

Learn More about Black Spuce

Primary Benefits

  • Provides soothing relief to the skin
  • Relaxing and calming to the emotions
  • Helps reduce and manage stress
  • Promotes feelings of clear and easy breathing
  • Soothes minor skin irritations

Not only does this make it great for use around the home, but also in your daily personal care regimen. Try adding a drop or two to your normal face cleanser to reduce the appearance of blemishes or even use it in your daily tooth-brushing routine2.

Multiple experimental studies have also shown that Black Spruce may help to keep the teeth clean when used as a component of a dental gel3,4. Just be aware, Black Spruce is not recommended for internal use, so follow recommended guidelines including gargling with warm water or a high-quality mouthwash after use.

Conclusion

If you are looking to add another essential oil to create a relaxing environment this holiday season, or want to try something a little different to complement your daily self-care regimens, try Black Spruce.

Not only will you feel better about using all-natural products to support your well-being, but also that you are doing something positive for the environment at the same time.

Add Black Spruce oil to your collection today!

Jennie Knourek

Herbalist, Phyto/Aromatherapist & Wellness Advocate. Trained Massage Therapist

WA#2923893

Owner/Admin of OpenRoadEssentials.com and Crunchy Biker Clubhouse and Healthy Happy Strong Tribe on Facebook

Join my FREE Online Class to Learn More about Essential Oils