What Is Lemon Oil?

People often ask, "what is lemon oil?" I really didn't know that much about lemon essential oil until I started doing some research online. There are many uses for it, from health concerns, food dishes, insecticide treatments, and perfume, as well as cleaning and disinfecting.

To understand what is lemon oil, it is helpful to know where it comes from as well as the ingredients. Lemon oil comes from the rind of a yellow fruit from a small evergreen tree. While the lemon tree was native to Asia, Christopher Columbus brought the seeds to the U.S. in 1492. The lemon tree is believed to have been grown first in India and China.

Facts About Lemon Oil
Lemon oil contains two main ingredients, limonene, which creates the aroma, and citral or citric acid. The 5% citric acid in lemon juice gives the sour taste. The pH of lemon juice is around 2 to 3. Cold pressing is used to extract the lemon oil, and it takes about 1500 lemons to produce about one pound of oil. There are three tablespoons of juice in each lemon.

What Is Lemon Oil Used For?
There are many uses for lemons including a disinfectant, liver stimulant, calming effect, antiseptic, and an antibacterial. It also helps in situations of anxiety, stress, and brain alertness. Other uses include perfumes, short term preservatives, cleaning and cooking.

Studies have shown that test scores increase by up to 50% when lemon oil is diffused. A study in Japan diffused lemon oil into an office and found that there were over 50% fewer errors by the employees. In 1747, James Lind experimented with lemons to cure scurvy in seamen.

Other Facts About Lemon Oil
Lemon oil combines well with other essential oils. Lemon zest is ground lemon peel that is used in food dishes as flavoring. If you need to brighten copper cookware or remove stains from plastic containers, try cutting a lemon in half and dipping it in baking soda, as you scrub the area to be cleaned. Disinfect a room with a diffuser, or just add a few drops of lemon to a spray bottle of distilled water.

Cautions
Always test a small amount of any oil first to make sure it is safe. Lemon is photo-toxic, so if you apply it to your skin, be careful about going out in the sun. Lemons left unrefrigerated for long periods of time can mold.

Where To Buy Lemon Oil?
Now that you know what is lemon oil, you most likely will be wondering where you can buy this oil. One of my favorite suppliers is Ananda Apothecary. They have high quality essential oils at very good prices and their customer service is top notch!

Even though I use lemon oil regularly, I did not fully understand what is lemon oil until I did some online research. It is a powerful essential oil that should be in every home. While you're at it, pick up a couple of lemons the next time you go to the grocery store!


Further Reading:
1) Cleaning Kitchen Cutting Boards (Blog Post May 8, 2010)
2) Home Remedies With Essential Oils (Blog Post July 16, 2009)



Sources Of Information:
1) Ananda Apothecary - Lemon Essential Oil
2) Health Benefits Of Lemon Oil - Organicfacts.Net
3) Lemon - Wikipedia





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Please ask for permission before reprinting this article. Thanks!
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Disclaimer:
This blog post is not intended to be medical advice. It is for informational purposes only. Consult your medical professional provider before making any decisions about your health or body regarding the information contained in this blog post.

Where To Buy Tea Tree Oil

Please refer back to the introductory post about Tea Tree Oil using the following link (LINK) or see the list of topics below for all posts in this series. Previously in this series, we discussed the topic, "How To Make Tea Tree Oil Spray".


Where Can I Buy Tea Tree Oil?

There are many places to purchase Tea Tree oil from your local health food store to places online. I buy my essential oils from Ananda Apothecary. (Please note that I do not receive any income from Ananda Apothecary for these statements).

Ananda Apothecary has high quality oils, great customer service and fast shipping! Plus the prices are very competitive. They really back up their products and if you ever have a concern with them, they are there to help and listen.

While I know Young Living sells good essential oils as well, I have had bad experiences with them. At one time, I would not have purchased my essential oils from anyone but Young Living. I was signed up as a distributor for them until they inadvertently deleted my distributor account from their system. Instead of correcting their error, they demanded that I needed to sign up and buy the distributorship all over again. Of course, this was at my expense. Regardless of trying to point out their error, they would only say that they made a mistake and I had to resign back up as a distributor.

In my search for a new supplier, I found out that Young Living does not distill as many of their oils as one tends to think they do. Like everyone else, most of what they sell is distilled by other manufacturers. As I have found from first hand experience, the quality of the essential oils at Ananda Apothecary are just as good as Young Living, if not better. The prices are considerably better because there isn't the markup like there is with Young Living. There is no MLM marketing concept either like Young Living has.

Regardless of where you buy your oils, do your research and make sure they are high quality oils. Store them in a cool dark place away from sunlight. You don't have to pay and arm and a leg for your oils because in a case like Young Living, you're most likely buying the same oils that other distributors are selling. They may lead you to believe otherwise, but again, do your research!


List Of Topics
7/14/11 - Introduction to Tea Tree Oil Series
7/15/11 - Uses Of Tea Tree Oil
7/16/11 - Tea Tree Oil Cautions and Toxicity
7/17/11 - How To Make Tea Tree Oil Spray
7/18/11 - Where To Buy Tea Tree Oil



Sources Of Information:
1) Gardenmandy.com - Tea Tree Oil For Bug Repellent & Everything Else
2) Mayo Clinic - Tea Tree Oil
3) Mayo Clinic - Sources and References
4) Natural Remedies-Review.com - Tea Tree Oil Spray
5) Ananda Apothecary - Essential Oil Supplier
6) Clean House, Clean Planet (Book by Karen Logan)


Disclaimer: Since I am not a licensed medical physician, please consult any necessary medical personnel before applying any of the information you read on this blog. The information presented here is for informational purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice. Please consult your medical health care provider before making any health care or medical decisions.




-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Blog Post & Images (c) 7/8/11 Don Shetterly - use by permission only
http://www.donshetterly.com

If any part of this post is used or shared, a link back to this site is required.
http://mindbodythoughts.blogspot.com/
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

How To Make Tea Tree Oil Spray

Please refer back to the introductory post about Tea Tree Oil using the following link (LINK) or see the list of topics below for all posts in this series. Previously in this series, we discussed the topic, "Tea Tree Oil Cautions And Toxicity". Come back tomorrow for a discussion on "Where To Buy Tea Tree Oil".


How To Make Tea Tree Oil Spray

Since tea tree oil is expensive, it would not be cost effective to use concentrated tea tree oil. Moreover, it is an oily liquid that you really don't want to spray it without first diluting it.

A 2% strength tea tree oil antiseptic spray is typically used. However, a 5% strength can also be made. (The 5% strength is often used to treat acne on the face).

To make a 2% solution (volume = 250 ml), measure 5 ml of tea tree oil and place in a bottle. Add 250 ml of distilled water to the spray bottle and shake well before each use. Tea Tree oil does not mix well with water and will separate.

If you want a 5% solution (volume = 250 ml), measure 12.5 ml of tea tree oil and place it in the bottle. Then, add 250 ml of distilled water and shake well.

Try to be as accurate as possible but here are some general measurements that may help you. 250 ml is approximately 1 cup. 20 drops equal approximately 1 ml. Using a syringe to measure this is much more accurate them using drops. 100 drop is of course equal to 5 ml or approximately 1 teaspoon.

Accuracy is important and great care should be taken to make sure you are mixing the right strength.

Make sure your bottle and equipment used to measure this is clean and free of anything that might contaminate the oil or solution.

To learn about other substances like creams, gels, massage oils or other substances that can be used as a carrier, click on the following link. Tea Tree Oil Dilution Techniques


List Of Topics
7/14/11 - Introduction to Tea Tree Oil Series
7/15/11 - Uses Of Tea Tree Oil
7/16/11 - Tea Tree Oil Cautions and Toxicity
7/17/11 - How To Make Tea Tree Oil Spray
7/18/11 - Where To Buy Tea Tree Oil



Sources Of Information:
1) Gardenmandy.com - Tea Tree Oil For Bug Repellent & Everything Else
2) Mayo Clinic - Tea Tree Oil
3) Mayo Clinic - Sources and References
4) Natural Remedies-Review.com - Tea Tree Oil Spray
5) Ananda Apothecary - Essential Oil Supplier
6) Clean House, Clean Planet (Book by Karen Logan)


Disclaimer: Since I am not a licensed medical physician, please consult any necessary medical personnel before applying any of the information you read on this blog. The information presented here is for informational purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice. Please consult your medical health care provider before making any health care or medical decisions.




-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Blog Post & Images (c) 7/8/11 Don Shetterly - use by permission only
http://www.donshetterly.com

If any part of this post is used or shared, a link back to this site is required.
http://mindbodythoughts.blogspot.com/
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Tea Tree Oil Cautions And Toxicity

Please refer back to the introductory post about Tea Tree Oil using the following link (LINK) or see the list of topics below for all posts in this series. Previously in this series, we discussed the topic, "Uses Of Tea Tree Oil". Come back tomorrow for a discussion on "How To Make Tea Tree Oil Spray".


Tea Tree Oil Cautions And Toxicity
(according to the Mayo Clinic.com site)

Always use this oil with caution. It is very strong and has been known to cause rashes in some people. If you use it on your skin, always dilute it with another essential oil such as jojoba. If used to repel insects in your garden, please be sure not to spray directly on plants as it can burn them and be sure to always dilute it before spraying. This oil is toxic if ingested. Be very careful when using around domestic animals and when using as an antiseptic in your mouth.

There are many reports of allergy to tea tree oil when taken by mouth or used on the skin. Skin reactions range from mild contact dermatitis to severe blistering rashes. People with a history of allergy to tea tree oil ( Melaleuca alternifolia ), to any of its components, or to plants that are members of the myrtle (Myrtaceae) family, balsam of Peru, or benzoin, should not use tea tree oil. Use cautiously if allergic to eucalyptol as many tea tree preparations contain eucalyptol.


Tea tree oil taken by mouth has been associated with potentially severe reactions, even when used in small quantities. Several reports describe people using tea tree oil by mouth who developed severe rash, reduced immune system function, abdominal pain, diarrhea, lethargy, drowsiness, inflammation of the corners of the mouth, slow or uneven walking, confusion, or coma. There have also been reports of nausea, unpleasant taste, burning sensation, and bad breath associated with tea tree oil use. Many tea tree preparations contain large volumes of alcohol.

When used on the skin, tea tree oil may cause allergic rash, redness, blistering, and itching. This may be particularly severe in people with pre-existing skin conditions such as eczema. Use of tea tree oil inside of the mouth or eyes can cause irritation. Animal research suggests that tea tree oil used on the skin in large quantities can cause serious reactions such as difficulty walking, weakness, muscle tremor, slowing of brain function, and poor coordination. When applied in the ears of animals, 100% tea tree oil has caused reduced hearing, although a 2% solution has not led to lasting changes in hearing. The effect of tea tree oil on hearing when used in the ears of humans is not known.

Not enough scientific information is available to recommend tea tree oil during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Animal studies suggest caution in the use of tea tree oil during childbirth because tea tree oil has been reported to decrease the force of spontaneous contractions, which theoretically could put the baby and mother at risk. Women who are breastfeeding should not apply tea tree oil to the breast or nipple since it may be absorbed by the infant.


List Of Topics
7/14/11 - Introduction to Tea Tree Oil Series
7/15/11 - Uses Of Tea Tree Oil
7/16/11 - Tea Tree Oil Cautions and Toxicity
7/17/11 - How To Make Tea Tree Oil Spray
7/18/11 - Where To Buy Tea Tree Oil



Sources Of Information:
1) Gardenmandy.com - Tea Tree Oil For Bug Repellent & Everything Else
2) Mayo Clinic - Tea Tree Oil
3) Mayo Clinic - Sources and References
4) Natural Remedies-Review.com - Tea Tree Oil Spray
5) Ananda Apothecary - Essential Oil Supplier
6) Clean House, Clean Planet (Book by Karen Logan)


Disclaimer: Since I am not a licensed medical physician, please consult any necessary medical personnel before applying any of the information you read on this blog. The information presented here is for informational purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice. Please consult your medical health care provider before making any health care or medical decisions.



-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Blog Post & Images (c) 7/8/11 Don Shetterly - use by permission only
http://www.donshetterly.com

If any part of this post is used or shared, a link back to this site is required.
http://mindbodythoughts.blogspot.com/
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Uses Of Tea Tree Oil

Please refer back to the introductory post about Tea Tree Oil using the following link (LINK) or see the list of topics below for all posts in this series. Previously in this series, we discussed the topic, "An Introduction To Tea Tree Oil". Come back tomorrow for a discussion on "Tea Tree Oil Cautions And Toxicity".


Uses Of Tea Tree Oil

Conditions that Tea Tree Oil may help when applied in a safe and proper manner.

Dandruff
Athletes’ foot
Jock itch
Nail fungus
Insect bites
Acne
Ringworm
Bee Stings
Boils
Cold sores
Gum disease


While numerous laboratory studies have demonstrated antimicrobial properties of tea tree oil (likely due to the compound terpinen-4-ol), only a small number of high-quality trials have been published. Human studies have focused on the use of topical tea tree oil for fungal infections (including fungal infections of the nails and athlete's foot), acne, and vaginal infections. However, there is a lack of definitive available evidence for the use of tea tree oil in any of these conditions, and further study is warranted.(2)


List Of Topics
7/14/11 - Introduction to Tea Tree Oil Series
7/15/11 - Uses Of Tea Tree Oil
7/16/11 - Tea Tree Oil Cautions and Toxicity
7/17/11 - How To Make Tea Tree Oil Spray
7/18/11 - Where To Buy Tea Tree Oil



Sources Of Information:
1) Gardenmandy.com - Tea Tree Oil For Bug Repellent & Everything Else
2) Mayo Clinic - Tea Tree Oil
3) Mayo Clinic - Sources and References
4) Natural Remedies-Review.com - Tea Tree Oil Spray
5) Ananda Apothecary - Essential Oil Supplier
6) Clean House, Clean Planet (Book by Karen Logan)


Disclaimer: Since I am not a licensed medical physician, please consult any necessary medical personnel before applying any of the information you read on this blog. The information presented here is for informational purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice. Please consult your medical health care provider before making any health care or medical decisions.




-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Blog Post & Images (c) 7/8/11 Don Shetterly - use by permission only
http://www.donshetterly.com

If any part of this post is used or shared, a link back to this site is required.
http://mindbodythoughts.blogspot.com/
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Tea Tree Oil Introduction

I use various essential oils for purposes of cleaning to health related situations. Although I do not consider myself to be an expert in any way, I am learning. The information I am presenting here is from searching the internet.

Each day, I will address various aspects of Tea Tree Oil. Please see the following list with the date of posting and a link to each regarding the various topics that are presented. On each topic, I will make sure I give reference to the main source of information that I used. However, in many cases, there is most likely many sources I consulted before I wrote this blog post. Not all sources will be identified as you are free to search the internet for corresponding sources of information and verify the information from my own research.


Tea Tree Oil Series Introduction

Tea Tree oil is extracted from the leaves of the plant known as Melaleuca Alternifolia. Some cultures such as the Australian aborigines have used Tea Tree Oil for centuries as an antiseptic and anti-fungal treatment. It is also great as an insect repellent for both you and your garden.(1)


List Of Topics
7/14/11 - Introduction to Tea Tree Oil Series
7/15/11 - Uses Of Tea Tree Oil
7/16/11 - Tea Tree Oil Cautions and Toxicity
7/17/11 - How To Make Tea Tree Oil Spray
7/18/11 - Where To Buy Tea Tree Oil



Sources Of Information:
1) Gardenmandy.com - Tea Tree Oil For Bug Repellent & Everything Else
2) Mayo Clinic - Tea Tree Oil
3) Mayo Clinic - Sources and References
4) Natural Remedies-Review.com - Tea Tree Oil Spray
5) Ananda Apothecary - Essential Oil Supplier
6) Clean House, Clean Planet (Book by Karen Logan)


Disclaimer: Since I am not a licensed medical physician, please consult any necessary medical personnel before applying any of the information you read on this blog. The information presented here is for informational purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice. Please consult your medical health care provider before making any health care or medical decisions.




-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Blog Post & Images (c) 7/8/11 Don Shetterly - use by permission only
http://www.donshetterly.com

If any part of this post is used or shared, a link back to this site is required.
http://mindbodythoughts.blogspot.com/
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Sage Improves Cognitive Function and Mood

According to the blog of Ananda Apothecary, a cited Journal of Psychopharmacology, Oct. 11, 2010 article, sage essential oil improved cognitive function and mood.

According to the study, "oral consumption [of sage essential oil] leads to improved performance of secondary memory and attention tasks, reduced mental fatigue and increased alertness." This is done through AChE inhibition or in other words, sage essential oil helps to prevent the breakdown of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine.

According to the research cited on Ananda's blog, the ingestion of 1 drop of sage essential oil will not be harmful and in fact it states that it is well tolerated by the body.

Previous research has indicated AChE inhibition from other essential oils such as rosemary, eucalyptus and lemon. These stimulant oils have been shown to improve test scores and decrease error frequency.

Source Of Information:
Ananda Apothecary Blog post 10/20/10

Home Remedies with Essential Oils

Here's something I got in a newsletter recently from the Young Living Essential Oils distributorship that I am part of. These essential oils do wonders as I use them in not only my own health and massage practice, but I also use them in making my own cleaning solutions. If you have questions or want to know how to purchase these, please contact me and I'll be glad to assist you. Young Living has some of the most pure and best essential oils on the market. You can not beat the quality of them.

For Aches & Pains (instead of pain killers, try...)

• Peppermint - erases headaches like magic due to its analgesic properties. Topically apply 1-2 drops of Peppermint and Lavender to your forehead, temples and back of neck.

• Peppermint and PanAway ease stressed muscles and joints. Make a custom massage oil by mixing six drops of either essential oil with one or more tablespoons of V-6 Pure Vegetable Oil complex (or other high quality non scented massage oils. Massage onto the affected area or just apply topically and cover with a moist, hot towel. Feel the relief soak in deep.

• Valor essential oil blend is a favorite of chiropractors and massage therapists because it balances the body's electrical energies. Chiropractors who apply Valor on the spine before an adjustment tell us it makes adjustments easier and helps them last longer.

For Digestive Upsets (instead of the pink stuff, try...)

• Peppermint essential oil - is a simple way to deliver an age-old remedy for indigestion, gas, bloating. Make a soothing tea with one drop Peppermint in a cup of warm water or apply 2-3 drops topically to the abdomen.
• Lemon essential oi is one of the best remedies for heartburn. Place several drops in water and sip slowly. By ingesting Lemon essential oil, the stomach stops excreting digestive acids, thereby alleviating heartburn.

For Cold & Flu Symptoms (instead of antihistamines, try...)

• Thieves is indispensable for minor respiratory conditions. This very versatile oil can be inhaled, applied topically and taken internally. Apply to soles of feet, then inhale deeply (being careful not to get this hot oil near eyes and mucous membranes). One drop mixed well in a 12 ounce glass of cool water, sipped slowly, supports the immune system.
• Fevers - Dilute one drop of Peppermint essential oil with V-6 Pure Vegetable Oil Complex and apply to soles of feet. workes great with children.

For Itchy, Ouchy Skin (instead of spray-on chemicals, try...)

• Lavender has been soothing distressed skin for millenia. When applied topically to sunburn, windburn and other minor burns, it helps to hasten healing of damaged tissues. To moisten minor burns and reduce inflammation, use LavaDerm Spray, which combines Lavender essential oil with soothing aloe vera.
• Insect bites and itchy skin - because of their outstanding antiseptic properties, essential oils are ideal for treating the itchiness and irritation from most kinds of insect bits. Apply Purification, Lavender or Peppermint topically on location 2-4 times daily: 1-2 drops neat or diluted with 1-2 drops V-6 Pure Vegetable Oil Complex.

For Insect Repellent (instead of Deet, try...)

• Dilute 6-10 drops of Purification, Peppermint or Lavender in 4 ounces of water and spray on exposed skin to repel insects and their bites.

For Sore Gums & Mouth try...

• Peppermint's natural menthol helps to relieve pain and reduce inflammation. Apply with a toothbrush or make a mild gargle with 1-2 drops of Peppermint in 3 ounces of water.
• Gum Infection - Thieves essential oil blend eliminates the bacteria that cause periodontal disease. Place a small drop on a soft toothbrush and apply gently to gumline. Thieves contains hot spice oils such as cinnamon and clove, so sensitive users may wish to dilute first with 2-3 drops of V-6 Oil.

For Insomnia & Restlessness

• Peace & Calming and Lavender are great favorites for those who have trouble getting to sleep and staying asleep. Apply 2-3 drops topically to the temples, back of your neck, then inhale the fragrance from the palms of your hands for a few minutes. Now, enjoy a peaceful night's sleep.

Important Note: When using essential oils internally, it is vitally important to choose therapeutic grade essential oils. Select only those oils which are Generally Regarded As Safe for internal use by the US Food And Drug Administration.

Disclaimer: The information contained in this blog post is intended for educational purposes only. It is not meant to substitute for medical care or to prescribe treatment for any specific health condition. No responsibility is assumed and no liability assumed for any person or group for any loss, damage or injury resulting from the use or misuse of any information herein.

Balsam Fir Essential Oil

-- Stimulates the mind
-- Relaxes The Body
-- Soothes aching muscles

Idaho Balsam Fir comes from the botanical family of Pinaceae. The Balsam Fir is often used as a Christmas Tree. It is a Conifer oil distilled in northern Idaho from the needles of the Balsam Tree. Conifer is the name for a tree belonging to the order Coniferales. They are trees with needles or scale like leaves and cones as opposed to broad, flat leaves.(1)

It is made up of alpha-pinene, beta pinene, camphene and limonene.
Balsam Fir is been used primarily for its antiseptic properties and its soothing effect on the muscle and body aches associated with exercise. It is known for its refreshing and uplifting scent.(2)

If you would like to know how to order this or learn more about it, feel free to contact me.

1. Tree Identification, The Confiers
2. Young Living