Citrus Paradisi is native to Asia and the Carribbean.
Grapefruit essential oil is acquired through cold pressing the rind or peel and is rich in antioxidants. Having such a high content of Vitamin C, it is a great boost to the immune system. This oil is also antiviral and antimicrobial, fighting and preventing various infections in the body (particularly those in the colon, urinary tract, kidneys, stomach and intestines). Grapefruit oil also helps to heal minor wounds and the effects of acne. It works as a stimulant for several major body systems, including the nervous system, digestive system, and lymphatic system. It gives an overall boost to energy levels and metabolism.
Grapefruit oil also stimulates uplifting hormones that combat depression, stress and anxiety. It helps rid the body of toxins by promoting urination and through optimizing the lymphatic system, lowers blood pressure, and aids in weight management.
Grapefruit oil is believed to be a hybrid of the sweet orange and pomelo, both of which have origins in Asia. The hybrid was first documented in the Carribbean by the Rev. Griffith Hughes as "the forbidden fruit" in 1750, as seen in Barbados. It was also reported to be widely spread in Jamaica in the 1780s. It is formerly known as shaddock, referencing the story that seeds of the fruits were brought from Asia to the Carribbean by Captain Shaddock. It is now widely cultivated in the United States, Israel, and Brazil.
May cause skin irritation if exposed to strong sunlight after application. Not recommended for use while pregnant. Avoid the eyes and mucous membranes.
Solidago canadensis
Goldenrod’s scientific name Solidago is derived from the Latin word meaning ‘to make whole’ because the plant has traditionally been used to support the cardiovascular system, urinary tract, and liver function. It is also calming for the body and mind and has been used as an aphrodisiac. You can diffuse goldenrod essential oil into the room for a relaxing effect and to get rid of nasty odors as its spicy citrus scent fills the air.
Goldenrod essential oil has been historically used to treat bladder and urinary tract infections. As a diuretic, it increases the frequency and quantity of urination. Its astringent and antiseptic properties also help cleanse the urinary tract. It also helps tone up the kidneys.
Diluted with a carrier oil, goldenrod essential oil can be used to treat skin conditions such as eczema and acne. Once again, its astringent (cleansing) and antiseptic (anti-infection) properties cause it to be quite effective in keeping skin in a healthy, youthful and good condition. Goldenrod oil, when diluted with a carrier oil like coconut oil or olive oil, can bring relief to bug bites and help to heal minor wounds to the skin.
It has been employed in the treatment of tuberculosis and asthma as well as other respiratory ailments such as seasonal allergies like hay fever. It acts as an expectorant and can be directly inhaled or diffused into the room to help break up sinus congestion.
As an anti-inflammatory, goldenrod essential oil has proven to relieve gout, joint pain, and arthritis, as well as having the ability to relieve muscle spasms. Goldenrod relieves inflammation of the mouth and throat and has been applied directly to the skin to hasten the healing of wounds. It is known to be a diuretic and will increase urine flow, aid in the treatment of diabetes, enlarged liver, hemorrhoids, and enlarged prostate. It has also been used to stop internal bleeding.
The plant is native to Canada, Mexico and the USA as well as to parts of Europe. It is usually the essential oil from the Canadian plant (Solidago canedenis) that you buy commercially. There is evidence that Native Americans treated toothache and sore throats by chewing on its leaves and roots. They also used parts of the plant to create treatments for insect bites. Traditionally goldenrod has been used to treat urinary tract infections and bladder infections.
Until there is more documented information regarding goldenrod essential oil, avoid using it if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Also avoid using goldenrod oil if you are allergic or sensitve to ragweed, chrysanthemums, marigolds, daisies, and others in the same family. If you have allergies, be sure to check with your healthcare provider before taking goldenrod.
“Irrigation therapy” is a process in which goldenrod is taken while drinking generous amounts of water or fluids to cause an increase in urine discharge. This process should not be undertaken by people with kidney or heart disease and suffering from fluid retention. There is also a concern that goldenrod might make the body accumulate more sodium, and this can make high blood pressure worse.
Diuretic drugs such as chlorothiazide (Diuril), chlorthalidone (Thalitone), furosemide (Lasix), hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ, Hydrodiuril, Microzide), and others interact with goldenrod and might cause the body to expel excessive amounts of water. When the body loses too much water, it can cause dizziness and decrease blood pressure, making it go too low.
Boswellia Carteri or Boswellia Serrata
Frankincense Essential Oil blends well with Lime, Lemon, Orange and other Citrus oils as well as Benzoin, Bergamot, Lavender, Myrrh, Pine and Sandalwood.
Frankincense Essential Oil’s anti-inflammatory properties make it a favorite medicine for asthma, gastroenteritis, and skin conditions.
New research suggests that frankincense’s disease reversing power may be even more impressive than previously suspected, linking it to a potential treatment for brain, breast, colon, pancreatic, prostate, and stomach cancers. Baylor cancer scientists emphasize that Boswellia Serrate may be a viable candidate for both cancer prevention and treatment! A 2012 study even found that a chemical compound found in frankincense called AKBA is successful at killing cancer cells that have become resistant to chemotherapy.
It’s believed that the Frankincense Oil can influence the nervous system. It helps reduce stress and negative emotions, helps boost immune system function and prevents illness. As an astringent, kills harmful germs and bacteria, heals the skin and prevents signs of aging, balances hormone levels, and eases digestion. It has been shown to be beneficial in reducing symptoms of leaky gut syndrome, chronic colitis, ulcerative colitis, Crohn’s disease, and IBS. It also acts as a sleep aid and helps decrease inflammation and pain.
Frankincense Oil will immediately induce the feeling of peace, relaxation, and satisfaction. It is an antiseptic, meaning it will help eliminate bacteria and viruses from your home and to clean indoor spaces. The plant has been commonly burned to help disinfect an area and is used as a natural deodorizer. Due to its antiseptic properties, it can help prevent tooth decay, bad breath, cavities, and oral infections.
Frankincense Essential Oil is a powerful astringent, helping to protect skin cells. It can reduce acne blemishes, the appearance of large pores, prevent wrinkles, and it will lift and tighten skin to naturally slow signs of aging. The oil can be used anywhere where the skin becomes saggy such as the abdomen, jowls, or under the eyes. It may decrease the appearance of scars and help reduce the appearance of dark spots caused from acne, stretch marks, eczema and help with healing of surgical wounds.
Frankincense Oil can help relieve gastrointestinal discomfort, gas, constipation, stomach aches, irritable bowel syndrome, PMS, or cramps, It helps speed up the digestion of food, similar to digestive enzymes. It can provide relief from coughing and help eliminate phlegm in the lungs. It also acts as an anti-inflammatory in the nasal passages, making breathing easier, even for those with allergies or asthma. Frankincense Oil can improve circulation and reduce joint and muscle pain associated with arthritis, digestive disorders, and asthma.
The word frankincense comes from the term “franc encens,” which means quality incense in old French. Frankincense Essential Oil has been associated with many different religions over the years, especially the Christian religion, as it was one of the first gifts given to Jesus by the wise men.
There are no known adverse side effects. That being said, frankincense essential oil should not be used during pregnancy, since it acts to increase menstrual flow. It should not be ingested in large quantities, as it can be toxic. Frankincense Essential Oil is extremely well tolerated, especially compared to prescription medications. Rarely frankincense oil can cause minor skin rashes and digestive problems like nausea or stomach pains. Frankincense is also known to have blood-thinning effects, so anyone who has problems related to blood clotting should not use Frankincense Oil as the oil may have potential to negatively react with certain anticoagulant medications.
Trigonella foenum – graecum is native to India, the Mediterranean, and southern Europe.
Can be used by diffusing and inhaling its steam. Can be diluted and added to carrier oils to apply to skin or drink internally.
Fenugreek essential oil has antiviral, anticarcinogenic, and antioxidantal properties.
Fenugreek oil is beneficial for diabetics by lowering blood sugar/glucose levels. It also stimulates the pancreas and improves the health of beta cells. It also stimulates insulin production, helps blood circulation and alleviates hypertension.
Fenugreek oil is useful as an expectorant, reducing excess mucous in the throat and lungs.
It is a phytoestrogen and also increases lactation in nursing mothers.
When combined with a carrier oil (like jojoba), fenugreek oil is effective in eliminating acne. Combined with olive oils, it can be used to relieve dry, irritated and inflamed skin and even itching from hives.
Fenugreek oil is beneficial in weight management. It helps to suppress appetite and increases metabolism.
Fenugreek is one of the oldest cultivated medicinal plants. It was used in Ancient Egypt for burns, in mummification, and to induce labor. It was used in classical times to feed livestock and that's where it gets its name which means "Greek hay". It was also used to treat fevers, infections, respiratory ailments, and intestinal problems. It is mentioned in the 1st century writings of Josephus as well.
Not to be used while pregnant. Should not applied directly or undiluted either topically or orally. Consult a doctor before taking fenugreek oil as a supplement, especially in combination with other medications like those for diabetes. May cause allergic reaction to those allergic to other foods in the Fabaceae family, like soybeans, peanuts, and green peas. May cause a maple syrup like odor.