Boo Boo Oil

I've been using a new recipe lately. It's summer. Sassy falls down a lot. I mean a LOT. We get bug bites, scratches, and scrapes almost daily at our house. Sassy is pretty good about getting up and shrugging it off. But sometimes she needs a little something on her BOO BOO. I searched around online and found a few different recipes. Then, as usual, I ended up using the basics but changing up some of the ingredients. It's pretty simple to make yourself.

I recommend using small or large glass roller bottles for this. However, you can also make it in a small spray bottle and make it into a Boo Boo spray if you like. If you aren't sure what a roller bottle is, I'm adding a picture below.

You'll add 10 drops each of tea tree oil, lavender oil and frankincense oil to the bottle. Then top off with witch hazel. If you are using a larger bottle, just double it.  Note that there are a few other oils that would work if frankincense is hard for you to find. Some others to use instead would be Bergomot, cedarwood, rosemary, patchouli, and ylang ylang.

I put this into a small glass roller bottle and put on any cuts, scrapes, bug bites, etc. It seems soothing and works great. If you don't have a roller bottle, make a spray. Add all the oils to a small spray bottle and fill up with witch hazel. This makes a great spray for skinned knees!

Many of my custom blends and hand made products are available at my ETSY shop. Click HERE.

New Face Scrub

Last night before my shower, I wanted a facial scrub. It just hit me suddenly that I needed a facial scrub. Yes - I needed it! I've had a few breakouts lately and I really needed a good scrub. I had facial cleaner but not a scrub. It was 9pm and I wasn't running out to the store to buy it. I started thinking I could make it myself. I hopped online and started looking at recipes. I quickly realized that I didn't have a few of the main ingredients in many of the recipes. However, I thought I could figure out my own simple recipe. I hit the kitchen and pulled together some simple ingredients. I mixed together just enough to for one use. I scrubbed my face with it in a warm shower. I was simply AMAZED at the results. When I got out of the shower, I felt that I'd just had a microdermabrasion! My skin was so smooth that I was certain I had scrubbed off the top layer. I followed this up by slathering on some of my homemade skin balm to help overnight. You can find that recipe in this old blog post. I'll provide the recipe for this facial scrub below, as well as info on each ingredient, and some suggested replacement ingredients.

Here is what I used to make my facial scrub. Note that my measurements are approximate. I don't think you need to be too specific with this product. This makes enough for ONE use.

Facial Scrub Recipe
Baking Soda - 1 tablespoon
Honey - 1 teaspoon
Lavender Oil - 5 drops
Tea Tree Oil - 10 drops
Vitamin E Oil - 1 teaspoon (+,-)

I mixed the ingredients  together in a small cup and added the Vitamin E oil last. This oil was mostly just to get it to the right consistency. It may take a bit more or less. You'll want this to be thick enough to pour in your hand or on a washcloth. In the shower I wet my face, poured it on a wet wash cloth and scrubbed my face, neck and chest in a circular motion. I then rinsed with warm water. Now, here is why I used each ingredient:

Baking Soda - First this is an amazing exfoliate for the skin. It's coarse texture works to scrub away dead skin but it is not too coarse as to be irritating for most people. It is also good for acne prone skin, and for cleaning out pores and blackheads.
Honey - This is a gentle face cleaning agent, and will not strip oil from the skin. It is antibacterial and a humectant, meaning it helps the skin hold moisture.
Lavender Oil - This is very soothing to the skin, and is anti-inflammatory.
Tea Tree Oil - This oil is perfect for skin with break-outs. It is also antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and can help with any histamine-induced inflammation (think allergies!)
Vitamin E Oil - Quite simply this is good for your skin. It is an natural antioxidant. Also, you need an oil for this recipe to hold it all together.

Now that you know why I used each ingredient, you should also know that you can replace some of them with other ingredients. Should you not have Vitamin E Oil on hand, simply swap that out in the recipe with some pure olive oil or FCO. Also, if you are not prone to break-outs you may not need lavender and tea tree oil. If perhaps you are over 40, you may prefer to use Patchouli and/or Ylang Ylang oils in your facial scrub.  Here's why:

Patchouli oil is anti-infectious, anti-inflammatory, anti-fungal, antimicrobial, antiseptic, and astringent. It can be used to treat several skin issues such as eczema, acne, scars and stretch marks, wrinkles, sagging, and dermatitis. This oil can be used for tissue regeneration so it works wonders on scars and marks.

Ylang Ylang – is anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, and anti-spasmodic. It can be used for skin issues such as acne, wrinkles, sagging, and blemishes. It has the power to stimulate new cell growth so is great as an anti-aging oil.

Obviously there are hundreds of essential oils that you could choose for this recipe. Lastly, you could make a larger batch of this and store in an air tight container. However, remember that Vitamin E oil is a natural preservative. So if you decided to make a larger batch, I recommend that you DO use Vitamin E oil instead of an olive oil.

If you decide to make some for yourself, do let me know how it works out.

Until next time...

~Kymber

No More Allergy Symptoms

Most folks know that I suffer from allergies. I have some seasonal allergies (grass, weeds, etc.) and some year round allergies (mold, dust mites, etc.). I am constantly trying to find something to relieve my allergy symptoms. I want to share something with you today. I met several weeks ago with Jennifer Haseloff and learned more about essential oils. She is really knowledgeable! I asked her for some suggestions to help with my allergy symptoms. Afterwards I got online and did a bunch of research. I looked up all the different essential oils that were known to help with allergies. I found quite a few.

I mixed up my own blend of oils with a carrier oil and began using it daily. I use it topically about 3 times a day. I also moved the diffuser to my nightstand beside the bed. I began diffusing 2 oils for congestion and breathing each night at bedtime. I have now been with this protocol for about 3 weeks and it has been extremely successful. In fact, I have NOT taken my allergy medicine in 2 weeks. Nope - not one allergy pill or nasal spray in 2 weeks! I did have 2 occasions where my eyes were itching. I rubbed some fresh Aloe on them and that relieved the itchiness. I almost cannot believe the difference these oils are making. I am not suffering from my allergy symptoms at all!

When I began using essential oils I read something on a website. It said "If you believe in them, they work. If you don't believe in them, they work." Well I am a big believer but now understand that even though I doubted they would help my allergy symptoms, they still worked! I'll report back after more time has passed to let you know how these are doing over the long haul. But the early results are just amazing!

Blessings,

~Kymber

My love of oils

So I've been using essential oils for more years than I can remember. Back in the day I fell in love with the smell of Patchouli and Sandalwood. I used that blend daily for about 5 years just for the smell. Then I started using oils in the DIY recipes for all the cleaning products I make at home. I next started using oils in the DIY recipes for hard lotion bars, creams, deodorant, sunblock, decongestant, etc. Slowly, over time, I've become a lover of essential oils. I've started trying them more lately for other things. I was nicely surprised recently when I used peppermint oil to provide headache relief.

Recently I purchased a bunch of glass roll-on bottles with caps. I mixed up a blend for myself as soon as I got them. I'd missed carrying around that roller bottle of Patchouli and Sandalwood! I've been using this blend now since I got the roller bottles - so for about two weeks. I set it on my desk at work and roll it on my wrists, and chest several times a day! (I may have an addiction here people.) I've noticed that it seems to be enhancing my mood. I'm not feeling as stressed or frustrated, depressed or as anxious as I was previously. I asked my husband last night and he said that he had noticed a difference in my mood lately as well.

Here is what I've blended into my roller bottle for daily use, and a little blurb about each oil. If you want more information on these oils, a quick online search will provide a vast amount of details. You'll notice that all of these specific oils are known for treating things like anxiety, depression, stress, and mood. Blended together, I'm finding that this works wonderfully. I realize that some things work for one person and not others. But I wanted to share with you some of the information about these oils in case you want to give them a try.

As always - be careful of the type of oils that you purchase. Not all oils are the same. Many should not be used straight on the skin and I typically blend with a carrier oil (olive oil, coconut oil, etc.). Many should not be taken orally. Make sure you research the brand and information about the oils you purchase in advance.

Patchouli (of course) - This oil is anti-inflammatory, anti-fungal, antiseptic, anti-infectious and an astringent. It is a natural decongestant and deodorant, relaxant and insecticide. It can be used to treat stress, frustration, anxiety, mood, hormone issues and depression. I can help skin related issues such as stretch marks, wrinkles, sagging, acne, dermatitis and acne. This oil has an amazing tissue regeneration power so it can be used on scars and marks as well.

Ylang Ylang - This oil is an well known as an aphrodisiac and an antidepressant. It works great for skin issues such as eczema, dry skin, rashes and acne. It works well for cuts, scrapes, burns and can be used as a disinfectant. Ylang Ylang can be used to lower blood pressure, as a sedative, for stress and anxiety.

Cedarwood - This oil has a very soothing and relaxing aroma. It is anti-fungal, antiseptic and makes a great addition to any insect repellent. It can be used alone or in blends for skin rashes or eczema, stress and anxiety, water retention, relaxation and sleep, mood/anger issue and depression. This oil also makes a great addition to hair products.

Sweet Orange - This oil is an anti-depressant, anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, helps with digestive issues and anxiety. It has been used and extensively studied for proven ability to prevent cell mutations and combat cancer tumor growth! It works great on dry or irritated skin, and helps treat acne. It is also great for blisters and calluses. This oil is a great addition to cleaning products, soaps and works as an insect repellent. You can use this oil to replace your use of moth balls in pantries and closets as well.

I have blended these four oils in my glass roller bottle with pure olive oil for a carrier oil. As I mentioned I rub it on my wrists and chest several times a day.

There are MANY other essential oils that I use and love. If you haven't tried them, I suggest you do a bit of research. Essential oils have many uses - many more than I could list in one blog post.

Blessings,

Kymber

DIY Spray Deodorant - So Easy!

I've been researching for awhile now - looking for a DIY deodorant that doesn't leave white stuff on the skin. My hubby uses a DIY deodorant stick that I make for him and he likes it. It is a bit too white and chalky for me though. If I wore t-shirts all the time I'm sure it would be just fine. However, in looking for something clear I was having trouble. I found several recipes but most were not clear. Any recipe that has a lot of cornstarch and baking soda is going to be white. I switched paths and started looking for a spray or gel. Turns out you CAN make a spray deodorant that goes on clear. Here is what you need:

SEE MORE RECENT UPDATE AT BOTTOM OF THIS POST

1 cup witch hazel (it's okay if it contains alcohol)
1/2 cup Aloe Vera gel (sold in stores)*
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
10 drops of essential oil
Small empty spray bottle
Small plastic funnel

Put the funnel into the spray bottle. I did this over the sink because I'm messy just in case.
Pour in the witch hazel.
Add in the Aloe Vera gel. You may measure it out into a cup and then add. This is why you need the funnel.
Add in 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda.
Add in essential oils (I used Tea Tree Oil)**


Remove the funnel and put the spray top on the bottle. Make sure it is closed tightly. Shake it all up. Voila! You're done. You'll need to shake this before each use as it does tend to separate somewhat. Spray it on your underarms and allow to dry. The first time I used this, I stood in front of the fan to let it dry. The second time I just put it on after my shower and let it air dry. Even getting dressed quickly, it did not leave a mark on my clothing. It smells wonderful - if you like Tea Tree Oil.

* I had a tube of the green tinted Aloe Vera gel that they sell at drug stores for sunburn and scrapes. I used this even though it's NOT all natural. If you're really looking for chemical free here, you'll have to buy 100% Aloe Vera oil or juice. Aloe Vera is great for this recipe as it also helps with any small cuts or scrapes - think razor burn/bumps ladies!

**There are other oils that are good for this project. Just look online to see what else you could use. I am kind of a sucker for Tea Tree Oil in these types of recipes. It is great for the skin, and it has a unisex fragrance so it is not all "girlie".



I'll update this in a few weeks to let you know how it has worked. I've only used it twice now but it seems to be working so far. Just in case, I do have a chemical laden roll of commercial deodorant in my desk drawer!

Blessings,

Kymber

UPDATE: WELL, I TRIED USING THIS RECIPE FOR SEVERAL DAYS. I HAVE TO ADMIT THAT I DID NOT LIKE IT. THE WETNESS OF THE SPRAY WAS SOMETHING THAT I COULD NOT GET USED TO. IT DID KEEP ME FROM STINKING - WHICH IS THE GOAL. HOWEVER WHEN IT WAS 90 DEGREES OUTSIDE I WAS SWEATING. I DO NOT ENJOY SWEAT! I AM NOT MUCH OF A SWEATER BUT IT WAS JUST NOT WORKING FOR ME. MIGHT WORK FOR OTHERS BUT I'VE GONE BACK TO MY CHEMICAL LADEN DEODORANT FOR NOW....THOUGH I'M SURE I'LL KEEP TRYING UNTIL I COME UP WITH SOMETHING THAT WORKS FOR ME.

Aloe for Allergy Eyes

Last night I was desperate for relief of my itchy, burning allergy eyes. I had already used my allergy eye drops. They seem to work but only for a short period of time. My eyes were killing me. It was bed time. I needed a quick remedy. I found it with just a little research online. ALOE! It just so happened that my daughter got an Aloe plant two weeks ago at her favorite store - Lowes. I cut off a piece and rubbed the clear get on and around my eyes. Yes, some of it actually got in my eyes. I then closed my eyes for a few minutes to let the gel dry. Voila! Instant relief! I could not believe it. It really worked.

I have used Aloe in the past, mostly for cuts, scrapes and burns. I had never thought about putting it on my eyes. I was a bit skeptical to be honest. But, as I said, I was desperate for relief and willing to try almost anything. This is one home remedy that I'll keep using. I probably better go buy a few more Aloe plants!

Note: I would not recommend using Aloe Vera gel that you buy for this purpose. Now you can purchase PURE Aloe but you'll have to search specifically for it. Most of the commercial Aloe products include alcohol and thickening agents. I would not put that on my eyes. The Aloe plant was cheap - only a few bucks - and easy to use.

If you try this, drop me a note and let me know how it works for you!

Blessings,

Kymber

DIY Lip Balm

For the second time I've made my own lip balm - which I call lippy. This batch turned out pretty well. I made a batch of cinnamon and spearmint this time around. It was quite simple to make, and it made a LOT! The good thing about this is that there is absolutely NO petroleum oil used, no harsh chemicals, or unsafe coloring. I admit that I made a BIT of a mess in the kitchen this time around. I recommend using metal and/or glass utensils. My old faithful plastic measuring cup with a pour spout actually melted this time with the oil in it. I ended up with a mess on the counter and floor - and not as many tubes of mint as I'd made of cinnamon. Coconut oil is a natural sun blocker and gives about an SPF of 8-10 naturally so these are great for summer!

 Here is how I did it in case you want to try.

Ingredients:
One cup of coconut oil - (I use organic, virgin oil from Trader Joe's)
One cup of beeswax  - (I use pellets because they are easy to melt)
Two tablespoons of Vitamin E oil - (I just eyeball it instead of measuring this one)
Flavoring and coloring - if desired


In a double broiler, or metal pan - melt coconut oil and beeswax over LOW heat. Once melted together turn off the heat. Add Vitamin E oil and stir well. Next add about 10 drops of your flavoring, and 2-3 drops of coloring. Stir well. Pour into plastic pots or lip balm tubes. Allow to cool for several hours (or put in fridge) before use. Cap tightly. One batch approximately **60 tubes of lip balm.
**I made ONE batch without flavor or color. I poured half of that into my measuring cup with a pour spout and then added the flavor and color. This allowed me to do half with one flavor/color and the other half with another.

NOTES:
For my lip products I only use natural candy flavoring - try those from Natures Flavors for a line of organic, all natural, and oil soluble flavoring. These flavorings are TOTALLY different from the essential oils that I use in other skin products. These add a touch of flavor and scent and are edible. For coloring, I use different things - all oil soluble as they work best with the oil and wax mixture. It only takes a touch of coloring for these types of products as I do not want to actually deposit color on the skin or lips. The lippy still goes on clear.

I order the tubes and pots online. Check Amazon or search for wholesale vendors for the lowest prices. Quantity usually determines price.

If you make your own, do let me know how it turns out!

~Kymber