Commercial baby wipes are made with ingredients that can irritate a baby’s delicate skin. This easy recipe is great on the go and can be used in any empty baby wipes container.

What You Need:
1 roll premium paper towels
2 cups warm water
2 tablespoons Fractionated Coconut Oil
3 drops Lavender essential oil
3 drops Melaleuca essential oil
An airtight storage container/empty wipe container/wet bag
Note: Use cloth for reusable wipes.
Directions:
1- Cut paper towel roll in half with a serrated or electric knife. Use half the roll now, and half later.
2- Combine water, Fractionated Coconut Oil, and essential oils in a small bowl.
3- Pour the mixture over the paper towels and then cover with the airtight lid letting the mixture absorb for 10 minutes.
4- Turn the container over and let sit for another 10 minutes.
5- Remove and discard the cardboard middle. Just pull the wipes from the center when you are ready to use. Store in container of your choice.
Tip: For on-the-go wipes, insert 15-20 wipes into travel size wipe container.

Submitted by Heather Gunnerson, Independent Product Consultant
This was originally featured in the Spring 2012 dōTERRA Living Magazine.
dōTERRA essential oils blend can be purchased online, or from any of our Independent Product Consultants. If you would like to locate a Product Consultant in your area, click here.

Oral Care and Heart Health

Does caring for your heart begin with caring for your smile?
Heart disease is the number one killer in the United States. When you think about heart health, cholesterol or blood pressure might come to mind, but when was the last time you thought about your heart as you brushed your teeth?
Recent research shows oral bacteria might be another indicator of cardiovascular disease. A study published in December 2011 found a correlation between periodontal disease and coronary heart disease. In 2005 and 2006 there were several preclinical research studies showing oral bacterial can colonize cells in the coronary artery and produce changes associated with heart disease.
The correlation between heart disease and oral health is strong, but research isn’t definitive on which causes which. What we do know is, according to the American Academy of Periodontology, people with periodontal disease are almost twice as likely to have coronary artery disease or heart disease. Another study found that the presence of common problems in the mouth, including the gum disease, gingivitis, cavities, and missing teethe were as good at predicting heart disease as cholesterol levels.
A healthy lifestyle, and daily brushing and flossing, should be our goals to increase overall health and wellness and to support a healthy heart.
Two theories on the connection:
1- When oral bacteria are introduced into the blood stream,. the bacteria could attach themselves to an already forming plaque on your arterial walls, accelerating arterial plaue or increasing inflammation at the site.
2- It’s possible that oral inflammation associated with periodontal disease increases your entire system’s susceptibility to inflammation. Diseases such as heart disease and diabetes are inflammatory diseases.
Natural Solutions to Oral Care:
Essential oils: for a safe and effective mouth rinse, swish 1 drop of On Guard with water. Clove is effective for oral discomfort, and myrrh for bleeding gums.
Here is a recipe on how you can make your own mouthwash.
Ingredients:
10 drops of essential oil(s)
2 cups water (distilled, filtered, or boiled water)
16 ounce dark glass bottle (you can purchase a bottle here)

Directions:

1. Put 10 drops of the dōTERRA essential oil(s) of your choice into the glass bottle.
2. Pour in 2 cups of distilled, filtered, or boiled water into glass bottle. Note: If you boiled water, make sure you let the water come to room temperature before adding to bottle.
3. When using, shake first and take a small sip of your homemade mouthwash. Swish around your mouth and gargle for 30 seconds. Do not swallow.
4. You’re done! It’s that easy.
There are many essential oils you could use in your mouthwash. Below are a few suggested oils you could use, by themselves, or by combining two or more to make a blend. Be careful when using Cinnamon essential oil as it can be irritating if too much is used. Start with 1 drop and gradually increase if desired. Also, did you know you can use dōTERRA’s On Guard^® Natural Whitening Toothpaste can be used as a mouthwash as well? After you’re done brushing just put a little bit of water in your mouth, gargle, and spit.
Essential Oil Suggestions:

On Guard Toothpaste: combines natural ingredients with mouth friendly essential oils, to protect against germs and pathogens, while reducing plaque and whitening teeth.
These recipes were originally featured in dōTERRA’s Spring 2012 Living Magazine.

To Order  www.mydoterra.com/peggybarnett

*These statements have not been approved by the Food and Drug Administration. dōTERRA products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent disease. Pregnant or lactating women and persons with known medical conditions should consult a physician prior to the use of any dōTERRA product.

 

THE SCIENCE OF SOIL, can you dig it?

Soil is more than a medium to support plant life, it is the foundation for all life. Therefore, soil is critical to a gardener’s success. Ideal soil must contain air, water, and nutrients for plants to thrive long term.
By Kevin Holyoak, Master Gardener
SOIL TEXTURE:
Soil texture refers to the individual or primary soil particles left after structure is removed. There are three types of mineral particles found in soils:

Sand: Feels gritty. Composed of particles .05 to 2 mm

Silt: Feels smooth and is .002 mm to .05 mm

Clay: Feels sticky and is smaller than .002 mm

Soils consisting of only one particle size are not ideal. A soil composed of two or more particle sizes is known as loam, and includes varieties such as sandy clay loam, silty clay loam, or silty sandy loam. However, the most desirable soil is a loamy soil, which contains all three sizes of particles and contains organic matter and secondary particles called aggregates. This soil can provide the plant with everything it needs to thrive. It will have physical support for the root structure and provide an environment for air, water, and nutrients to be retained.
Good Structure:
A good soil structure also provides good drainage, which is important to ensure excess salts can be leaches through the soil profile and out of the root zone. Drainage can be improved by adding organic matter, deep tilling, planting is raised beds, and installing drains in the soil.
Make Amends:
Amending soils with organic matter is the most important thing you can do to improve any soil. The benefits of adding organics are increased water holding capacity, reduced compaction, improved drainage, nutrients for plants, and lowered soil pH. Composts and manures are good sources, but may also contain salts and weed seeds.
Organic Matters:
How much organic matter should be added to the soil. Apply a two to three inch layer of material if you are improving the soil for the first time. Apply one inch per year for existing areas that have previously been amended.
Dig in! Improve your soil this spring before planting anything and your garden will reap rewards all year long.
Tip: Visit your local nursery for specific information on your area’s soil type, climate and growing season.
Tip: Thyme and Lavender are great for protecting all vegetables in the garden.
VERSATILE VINEGAR
Did you know that vinegar is a natural herbicide? Kill weeds and grass growing in unwanted places by pouting full-strength white distilled vinegar on them. This works especially well in crevices and cracks of walkways and driveways. Be careful not to spray it on the surrounding grass as it will kill that too.
More Ideas:
Give acid-loving plants a boost by watering them with a vinegar solution now and again. A cup of vinegar to a gallon of water is a good mixture.
Preserve cut flowers and liven droopy ones by adding 2 tablespoons white distilled vinegar and 1 teaspoon sugar to a quart of water in a vase.
Wash garden vegetables with a mixture of 1 tablespoon of white distilled vinegar in 1 1/2 quarts of water.
Kill slugs by spraying them with a mixture of 1 part water and 1 part white vinegar.
This article was originally featured in dōTERRA’s Spring 2012 Living Magazine.
dōTERRA essential oil can be purchased online, from our Independent Product Consultants. 
To order: mydoterra.com/peggybarnett

Say Happy Birthday with these dōTERRA Inspired Gift Giving Ideas

A birthday should be filled with luxuries, surprises, and of course dōTERRA essential oils. This birthday basket is filled with wonderful gift giving ideas using essential oils. Follow the tips below to provide a luxurious birthday surprise for anyone in your life.
Note: These gift giving ideas would also be great for Mother’s Day, Anniversaries, Special Occasions, etc.

All DIY items in the gift basket have step-by-step tutorials on this blog. Click on the item list to view each tutorial.

This Basket Includes:

Homemade Cordless Heating Pad

Deep Hair Conditioner
Citrus Bliss Sugar Scrub
Lavender Epsom Bath Salts
Fast-Fizzing Bath Bombs

Variety of essential oils and dōTERRA Spa Products:

Lip Balm: Item No. 3619

Healing Hands Lotion: Item No. 3617

Serenity Calming Bath Bar: Item No. 3614

Citrus Bliss Essential Oil: Item No. 3102

Lavender Essential Oil: Item No. 3011

Assorted Accessories:

Towels

Could Also Include:

Aromatherapy Jewelry

Salon Essential Hair Care System: Item No. 3628

Other Recommended Ideas:

Family Physical Kit: Item No. 3279
Introductory Kit: Item No. 3218

dōTERRA essential oils can be purchased online, or from Independent Product Consultant www.mydoterra.com/peggybarnett.

Recipe: Vegetarian Black Bean Burgers Made with Essential Oils

With the warmer weather quickly approaching, a healthy grilled meal could be exactly what you need to get in the spring mood. These delicious and easy black bean burgers with essential oils are sure to be loved by everyone in your family.
Ingredients:

2 garlic cloves
2 cans or 3 cups cooked black beans (drained and divided)
1/4 cup red bell pepper
1/2 cup yellow onion
2 drops dōTERRA Cilantro essential oil
2 drops dōTERRA Basil essential oil
1 egg
1 cup bread crumbs
Salt and pepper
Directions:
1. Rinse and drain the beans.
2. Put 1/2 of rinsed beans (1.5 cups), yellow onion, garlic, red bell pepper, Cilantro and Basil essential oil, egg, bread crumbs, and salt and pepper into a food processor or blender. Process until smooth.

3. Combine with the remaining black beans and stir. If the mixture is too sticky, add more bread crumbs until it holds together.

4. Divide into 4 patties.

5. Heat skillet/grill on medium heat. Add olive oil.

6. Heat 6 minutes on each side. Be careful when you flip the burgers as they are very delicate.

7. While the burgers are cooking, cut up tomatoes, romaine lettuce, or other desired toppings.

8. Once the burger is cooked, put the burger on the bottom bun, top with lettuce, tomatoes, and desired condiments.

9. Enjoy!
For a delicious side dish, broil some asparagus with a little bit of olive oil, salt, and dōTERRA Lemon essential oil.

To Order www.mydoterra.com/peggybarnett

 

Spring Cleaning: Natural Cleaning Solutions for the Bathroom

Cleaning the bathroom is not an experience people look forward to very often. Being stuck in a small closed space with harsh chemicals not only makes it hard to breathe, but can also be hazardous to your health.
The next time you clean your bathroom, why not try mixing up an effective cleaner with many ingredients you already have at home. It still might not be your favorite household chore, but you will at least have a clean bathroom, clear lungs, and non-toxic cleaning products to make the job a little easier to handle.
Soft Scrub for Bath, Tile, and Toilet
Make in small batches and store in an airtight container. This is enough for two to four applications. This soft scrub is excellent for getting rid of soap scum, removing stains, and brightening your tile and toilet. To use, just apply and let it sit for 5-10 minutes and then scrub. Once done scrubbing, take a wet cloth and wipe clean.
What you Need:

3/4 rounded cup baking soda
1/4 cup liquid castile soap
1 tablespoon water
1 tablespoon vinegar
5-10 drops dōTERRA Lemon essential oil
Editor’s note: Liquid castile soap is a vegetable-based soap commonly found in health food stores. Dr. Bronner’s is a popular one. Look for unscented. This scrub is also great to use to help clean your kitchen sink, refrigerator, or tile floors.
Directions:
In a bowl, combine the baking soda and castile soap.

Add the water and stir.

Add the vinegar and essential oil. The consistency should be a soft paste.

Store in an airtight container.

Toilet Bowl Cleaner
Tip: for serious stains or rust, empty water out of bowl and scrub with a pumice stone. When wet, the stone will not scratch the porcelain.
What You Need:
1/2 cup baking soda
10 drops dōTERRA Melaleuca essential oil
1/4 cup vinegar
Directions:
Add ingredients directly to a partially drained bowl. As it reacts, scrub the toilet. This combination is intended for one use at a time.
This was originally featured in the Spring 2012 dōTERRA Living Magazine
Other Natural Products to Make at Home:
Mattress Cleaner
Dryer Sheets
Air Freshener
Mouthwash
Window Cleaner
All Purpose Cleaning Spray
To Order www.mydoterra.com/peggybarnett

Lime Essential Oil: for Cleansing, Cooking, Mood-Boosting and More

Lime essential oil is most popularly known and used as a flavoring agent in food, but there are many other benefits associated with it.
With its sharp, citrus smell, Lime essential oil (EO) is a powerful aromatic that is both stimulating and refreshing.
dōTERRA’s Lime essential oil also differs slightly in chemistry than our other citrus oils. Although they all contain limonene, Lime additionally offers alcohols and esters that have calming and anti-infectious properties.
Traditionally, Lime has been used to help with anxiety, cellulite, strengthening nails, sore throats, air purification, internal cleansing, and disinfecting. In one study, Lime essential oil was found to have potent antibacterial activity.
When used aromatically, Lime’s sweet, refreshing, and lively aroma can help brighten and boost your mood. Lime can also be used as an alternative to Lemon for its cleansing properties, and as a help with colds and the flu.
Tips from dōTERRA:
Diffuse to cleanse the air and uplift your mood.
Put some Lime on a cotton pad to help remove grease spots and sticker residue.
Add a drop of Lime to your drinking water for enhanced flavor.
Add 1-2 drops to help keep fruits from turning brown.
Don’t have a fresh lime lying around the house when you need it? No problem! Just add Lime essential oil to your favorite recipes when they call for lime juice. You don’t need very much. Start with 1 drop and then add more as needed. Try Lime EO instead of lime juice the next time you make salsa or guacamole.
Rub your tarnished silver with Lime essential oil to restore its beauty.
Tips from our Facebook Fans:
“Pour honey and Lime EO over fruit! So delicious!” -Melonie Bitsoi Larsen
“I love to put Lime in my beans when I am cooking. I also enjoy diffusing Lime and Cypress together. Smells so yummy!” -Ashtin Appel Hart
“I add [Lemon essential oil] to water. I gave up soda a while ago, but my family is not all on board yet. Sometimes I mix Lime, Lemon, and Orange together in a large pitcher with ice, and they can’t resist! Also, if you drink cranberry juice, add a drop of Lime … prepare to be AMAZED!!!” -Dacia Randall
“I use it for acid reflux” – Shauna Ford Christensen
“I like to diffuse it with Wild Orange—smells fantastic and boosts my mood every time!” -Kristi Hotton
“Add it with Lavender essential oil and coconut oil for an uplifting, yet relaxing massage blend.” -Tracy Arnold
“I diffuse Breathe and Lime every night to combat sinus issues. Also great in Coconut Macaroon cookies! YUM!” -Pam Butler
“I put a small amount of Lime and cilantro in good Greek yogurt to make a dip for veggies.” – Teresa Gray

*These statements have not been approved by the Food and Drug Administration. dōTERRA products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent disease. Pregnant or lactating women and persons with known medical conditions should consult a physician prior to the use of any dōTERRA product. The statements shared from our Facebook page are the personal opinion of independent persons and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of dōTERRA International, LLC.

Makeover #3 – Diaper Bag

Stay Hydrated! Dehydration can lead to exhaustion. Add essential oils, such as lemon or wild orange, to your water throughout the day. Diaper Cream Our recipe is free from petroleum and artificial ingredients that can further irritate skin. Peppermint Beadlet A burst of peppermint will freshen breath and soothe digestive discomfort. Essential Oils Gentle, multi-use oils like lavender and melaleuca are must haves. Coconut Oil Moisturize and protect skin without an oily residue. Wipes Commercial wipes are made with ingredients that can irritate a baby’s delicate skin. This easy recipe is great on the go, just place wipes in a wet bag.