Healing Properties of Crystals

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When it comes to natural healing the options are seemingly endless. From plant based medicines to minerals, to spring water and even dirt, it seems every natural substance can be used in some way. But rocks and gems? Is it really possible that something seemingly inanimate can bring healing to our bodies? Many believe the answer to this question is yes.

Throughout history, just about every culture has employed crystals and gems in healing practices. Egyptians wore them for protection and power and Indians wore them to ward off negative energy. Mayans used them to diagnose and treat diseases and prehistoric Irish used them to promote physical, emotional, and spiritual balance.

It’s All About Vibration

Albert Einstein said everything in life is vibration. Everything consists of energy and has a unique vibrational frequency. Taking this a bit farther, imagine that each cell in your body has its own frequency. When cells are healthy and functioning properly, they vibrate at a specific frequency. Likewise, when cells are unwell, their frequency slows down. The sicker we are, the lower our overall frequency.

Crystals, like our living cells, vibrate at different frequencies depending on their matter, size, thickness, and color (light frequency). These frequencies, called phonons, have the ability to communicate and alter the frequency of living cells in our bodies. 

The light energy of crystals varies, from low frequencies, needed for physical balance, to very high frequencies, needed for spiritual work. They can help balance our energy field and bring about a state of order in the body. When our energy field functions in a healthy vibrational frequency it urges the physical body to return to a healthy state as well.

Basically, when any of our systems are out of balance, it compromises our health. Because crystals can act as electromagnetic distributors, they bring balance to body systems.

Let’s look at some specific crystals and their unique abilities to promote healing.

Amethyst

Amethyst has been valued throughout history as a stone that brings detoxification. It helps bring the crown chakra, or energy center, into balance. Consequently, it encourages consciousness and spiritual connection. Amethyst is sometimes used to overcome addictions and stress. It also possesses an ability to soothe the mind and emotions.

Tiger’s Eye

Also known as the Golden Ray, tiger’s eye is  believed to bring prosperity, good fortune, and to inspire courage. This stone balances the third eye chakra, thereby encouraging creativity, vision, and dreaming. Some people believe wearing tiger’s eye combats procrastination and provides clarity for difficult situations and conflicts.

Blue Lace Agate

This light blue stone provides emotional encouragement and support. It is calming, uplifting, and elevating to the spirit. Blue lace agate balances the throat chakra, which may promote clear communication, clarity of thought, understanding, and confidence. Additionally, agate can encourage the releasing of repressed emotional issues. Many people feel that agate has an anti-depressant quality.

Rose Quartz

Rose quartz appeals to the heart chakra, dissolving emotional wounds, fears, and resentments. Reawakening the heart brings a deep sense of personal fulfillment and contentment. Opening the heart allows one the capacity to truly give and receive love from others. This stone also encourages compassion, empathy, forgiveness, and a desire to resolve conflict peacefully.

Citrine

Citrine transmutes, dissipates, and grounds negative energy. It corresponds to the solar plexus chakra in the center of the chest. Some people say citrine carries the power of the sun and is the primary stone of imagination and personal will. Wearing this stone may help bring self awareness and assertiveness. 

Carnelian

The ancient Egyptians called carnelian “the setting sun” and wore this stone to enhance passion, love, and desire. It balances the sacral chakra, which is associated with sexuality and relationships, as well as creativity. Carnelian may help with completion of projects and increase an overall sense of satisfaction and joy in one’s life. Wearing carnelian is useful for making decisions by keeping one focused on the present and not on past experiences. Carnelian calms anger and grounds you in reality, while encouraging initiative and determination.

Physically, carnelian may relieve symptoms of PMS and menopause, as well as assisting in the areas of fertility and potency.

Hematite

Hematite absorbs negative energy and calms in times of stress or worry. It is a very protective stone that grounds, balances, and detoxifies. It is good for working on all chakras, but especially the root chakra. Carry hematite when you are seeking balance and equilibrium or to overcome difficulty focusing your energies. Hematite may also strengthen self-confidence and enhance meditation practices. Physically, hematite is a great detoxifying stone, helpful for the liver and the blood.

What about you?

What are your favorite crystals for healing and balance?

If you are looking to learn more about balancing chakras, check out this post about Essential Oils for Chakras. Additionally, you may want to check out The Club Hangout about Chakras, Crystals, and Essential Oils.

For access to all of this and even more natural health and wellness education, come on and ! You will gain access to a members-only live interactive class about using crystals and essential oils on December 18!

To purchase a set of essential oil gemstone roller bottles, check out Whimsy and Wellness.

9 Ways to Use Lemongrass Essential Oil

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Lemongrass essential oil has a bright, citrusy aroma that lends itself well for many uses for personal care products. It is actually from the grass family and is commonly used to make tea and as a flavoring in many Asian dishes. But it doesn’t just smell nice. Like so many other essential oils, there are numerous uses for this versatile oil. Here are 9 ways to use lemongrass essential oil.

Control Body Odor

Lemongrass is a great deodorizer. Use caution because this oil can be “hot”. I don’t recommend applying it directly to tender underarms. It works great added into this Homemade Deodorant recipe.

Strengthen Hair Follicles

Trying to grow luscious locks? Lemongrass can strengthen hair follicles and promote healthy hair growth. Try this Hair Tonic recipe for a nourishing spray that leaves your hair smelling great all day.

Relieve Irritability

Aromatherapy has been used throughout history to help improve mood via specific chemical reactions in the brain. A few drops of lemongrass in the diffuser or diffuser necklace can ease irritability and crankiness.

Natural Nail Polish Remover

Finally, there’s an option to toxic acetone nail polish removers. Acetone is a harsh solvent that can cause severe irritation to eyes, nose, and throat. Not only that, but it actually removes all the natural oils from your skin, nails, and cuticles. Use a few drops of lemongrass on a cotton ball, and voila!

 

Ease Fatigue

Need a little pep in your step? Place a couple drops of lemongrass in your palms and inhale. Then apply to the back of your neck and shoulders for an uplifting, invigorating aroma.

Relaxing Foot Bath

Soak tired feet in a warm bath with 1/2 cup epsom salts and 6 drops lemongrass. The salts and essential oil will relax and soothe muscles and joints of your feet.

Boost Cleaning Products

Lemongrass will enhance the performance of your everyday cleaning products. Try adding a few drops to your household cleaner or laundry detergent for an added boost.

Cool Off Spray

Lemongrass is very cooling. Keep this cooling spray on hand for times when you need to cool the body.

  • pinch of salt (this helps disperse the oils in the solution)
  • 10 drops lemongrass essential oil
  • 3 drops peppermint essential oil
  • 2 drops eucalyptus radiata essential oil
  • 1/2 cup non-alcoholic witch hazel
  • 4 oz. spray bottle 

Add ingredients in the order listed. Be sure to add salt and oils before witch hazel. Shake gently. Spray on torso, arms, neck, legs, feet, or other ares to promote cooling. Do not apply to the face.

Joint Rub

Lemongrass is very soothing to sore joints. Combine with a neutral carrier oil and massage into hands, feet, knees, and other joints.

What are your favorite uses for lemongrass essential oil?

Want to learn more ways to use essential oils? Check out this post about Palo Santo.

For even more education about essential oils, supplements, and wellness, check out my book, Essentials: 75 Answers to Common Questions About Essential Oils and Supplements!

Romaine Calm: Mix Up Your Salad with Some Lettuce Varieties

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With the romaine lettuce E. coli outbreak, some of you may be missing your salads. Never fear, now is a great time to branch out and try some different lettuce varieties. You never know, maybe you’ll find something you really love and break away from the boring status quo of a romaine lettuce salad. Here are several romaine lettuce alternatives readily available in most areas.

Arugula

This green, also known as salad rocket, has a slightly peppery taste. It originates from the Mediterranean and is great by itself or combined with other lettuce varieties. Arugula contains vitamins A, C, K. and calcium.

As a fat-soluble retinoid, Vitamin A is a powerful antioxidant. It supports healthy immune function, cell growth, and eye health, as well as maintaining kidney, lung, and heart function.

Vitamin K, or potassium, is needed to maintain healthy blood pressure, which in turn influences the risk of stroke and coronary heart disease. Evidence is also accumulating of the protective effect of adequate dietary potassium on age-related bone loss and reduction of kidney stones. 

Butterhead

As the name implies, the texture of butter, or bibb, lettuce is indeed smooth. It is slightly sweet and adds a smooth texture to a mixed salad. Like arugula, a serving of butterhead has hefty doses of vitamins A and K. It also contains folate. 

Folate is a B vitamin and is necessary for the synthesis of red and white blood cells, as well as the conversion of carbohydrates into energy. Folate is especially needed during pregnancy, as it is used in the production of DNA and RNA.

Green or Red Leaf 

These large-leaved greens are tender, so they tend to spoil faster than some other varieties. Their ruffled texture and vivid color create an especially aesthetic salad. Similar to bibb lettuce, these looseleaf lettuce varieties also contain vitamins A, K, and folate.


Mâche

Also known as lamb’s lettuce, mâche grows in lovely little rosettes of bright green leaves. These sweet, slightly nutty leaves are tender and juicy. It has a delicate flavor that pairs well with more robust greens, such as arugula or endive. Or try it alone with a light vinaigrette. In addition to vitamins A, K, and B, it also contains almost as much iron as spinach. Mâche also contains copper, which we need in trace amounts to support a healthy liver.

Spinach

Considered a “power food”, the health benefits of spinach are enumerable. Among these, spinach is noted for its antibacterial, anticonvulsant, anti-diabetic, anti-parasitic, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-ulcer, and antiviral activities. It is also useful for the prevention of nervous, hepatic, and respiratory diseases. This brain food actually helps synthesize and regulate neurotransmitters in the brain, which can protect against cognitive decline.

Endive

Endive comes in a few different varieties. The most common are frisée, or curly endive, and french endive. both of these have a firm, crisp texture and add are slightly bitter. They are best paired with other greens because of the characteristic pungent flavor. Once again, we have vitamins A, K, B, and C in endive, but it also has vitamin E and choline. Choline plays a role in the synthesis of acetylcholine, a key neurotransmitter, as well as lecithin, which helps maintain cell membranes, transmit nerve impulses, and process fat and cholesterol.

The Possibilities are Endless

These are just a handful of the lettuce varieties available. What are your favorite healthy greens?

For a great salad recipe to add some diversity to your salads, check out this Butternut Squash Salad recipe. Or for a warm dish, check out Barely Braised Greens.

Love healthy vegan recipes? Come check out The Clean Slate Cleanse!

10 Ways to Use Cedarwood Essential Oil

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Just about everyone knows that cedarwood is great for relaxation and can help you get a good night’s sleep. But there are so many other great ways to use this oil. Let’s look at 10 ways to use cedarwood essential oil.

Grounding

Cedarwood supports the root chakra, which is the foundation of our security. When this chakra is in balance, we feel grounded, secure, and confident.

Healthy Gums

Add a drop of cedarwood to your toothbrush before brushing, or massage a drop or two directly on gums. Fortunately, cedarwood has a relatively mild flavor.

Dry Scalp Relief

Massage a few drops of cedarwood into your scalp after showering or just before bed to relieve itchy, dry skin.

DIY Hair Detangling Spray

In a 4 oz. glass spray bottle, combine:

Shake gently and spray on damp hair before brushing.

Itchy Pooch Relief

Cedarwood works on dogs the same way it does for people! Apply a couple drops to your hands and massage into your pet’s skin. Focus on the areas around the neck, chest, and ears. Be careful not to apply essential oils too close to dogs’ faces, as they are extremely sensitive to the aromas. For more information about using essential oils with your pets, check out Safety of Essential Oils in Pets.

Soothe Achy Joints

Try adding several drops of cedarwood to a warm bath to soothe sore joints. Alternatively, you may add cedarwood to a massage oil and gently massage into joints. 

Make an Emotional Balance Roller

Cedarwood is high in sesquiterpenes and has a profound effect on the amygdala portion of the brain, where our emotions and memories are stored. As such, it can help provide the strength we need during times of crisis. Cedarwood is a great oil to use for releasing stored negative emotions and encourage mental security. Use this roller blend liberally and focus on releasing that which no longer serves you in a positive way.

To make an Emotional Balance Roller blend, combine the following in a 10 mL roller bottle:

Top off with carrier oil of your choice.

Improve Mental Focus

Cedarwood has been traditionally used as building material for offices because the aromas from essential oils emitted from the wood helps maintain focus and concentration. The famous cedars of Lebanon were used to build a palace for King David. Check out this recipe for a Focus Roll On.

Make a Custom Cologne

Cedarwood and other woodsy essential oils make great blends for the men in your life. Try one of the blends below or create your own. For tips on mixing essential oils for fragrance, check out this post on Blending Essential Oils by Perfume Note.

For the cologne base, combine the following in a 2 oz. glass spray bottle:

  • 1 tablespoon vodka or witch hazel  (to help the spray diffuse)
  • 1 teaspoon vegetable glycerin (acts as a surfactant to keep the scent on)
  • Desired essential oils (about 25-35 drops total)

Cologne Blends to try:

Lumberjack Blend:12 drops spruce, 6 drops rosemary, 8 drops cedarwood, 2 drops lemon essential oils

Manly Musk:8 drops sandalwood, 6 drops bergamot, 10 drops cedarwood, 4 drops pine essential oils

The Naturalist:10 drops balsam fir, 10 drops black pepper, 10 drops cedarwood, 1 drop grapefruit essential oils

Stinky Shoe Sachet

Cedarwood is great for neutralizing and preventing odors. Make these cute shoe sachets and place them in your shoes to keep offensive odors away.

In a small bowl, combine 2 tablespoons baking soda, 6 drops cedarwood essential oil, 3 drops tea tree essential oil, and 2 drops peppermint essential oil. Carefully pour into a drawstring mesh bag. Place inside shoes in between wearing.

What are your favorite uses for cedarwood essential oil?

Love learning about this many ways to use essential oils? Check out my 10 Ways to Use Tea Tree or Ginger essential oil.

For even more education about essential oils, supplements, and wellness, come , your essential oil encyclopedia.