The last time I blogged I was enjoying the fruits of summer’s labor. Shortly after that, I experienced some subtle and not so subtle changes to my body. One being an intense ache in my hip that has genetic roots, the other being a drastic life change that felt really stressful for me to go through. I didn’t over analyze too much, what with pies to make and upcoming deadlines to meet, but one thing I did track was the fact that I was quickly becoming basil’s number one fan. In the midst of all these changes, I started making, eating, digesting and anointing myself with the “holy” oil with fervor.

My cravings have subsided, as have, thankfully, my achy joints and hormonal imbalances. I decided it was time to hit the books and find out exactly what basil is good for.

Lo and behold, this incredible herb contains large amounts of (E)-beta-caryophyllene (BCP), which is helpful for treating inflammatory bowel diseases and arthritis. Both issues I have been dealing with seasonally. It is also contains phytoestrogens. These are plant-derived compounds that sometimes mimic the natural estrogens women produce in abundance before menopause.

So if you suffer from arthritis, mood swings or hormone surges from sudden stressors, I recommend Young Living Basil Oil . After a nice hot bath or shower, mix a drop of basil with your favorite unscented lotion  and rub it into your joints. It is a hot oil, so one or 2 drops to 1/2 cup of cream is more than enough.

 

Anti-inflammatory compound from cannabis found in herbs

Phytoestrogens-What are they?

 

 

It is that time of year again! Allergies, air conditioning and extreme heat with a side of stress can be more than enough for one’s palette to bear. This spring I discovered a new Young Living Essential Oil&#0153 called Melrose. One word describes this oil. Nom:) I walked around with a bottle in my pocket for 2 weeks. I would put a couple of drops in my hand and breathe in the smelly goodness for 3 or 4 minutes, noticing it’s effects both physically and mentally. It would calm my mind and open up my lungs to allow in more oxygen. I also used it while taking a hot shower by putting a few drops in a diffuser in the bathroom.

It contains 4 oils that make the combination an amazing air purifier (tea tree & clove),an anti inflammatory(naouli), as well as a stress reliever.

Whenever I try a new essential oil, I will spend a fair amount of time looking through scientific journals to see what research has been done with the oils I am using in reference to the brain. I was overjoyed to see that Rosemary, one of the key ingredients in Melrose, has been studied quite extensively and has been shown to improve cognitive performance while decreasing stress levels. I have included links to the abstracts below if you are interested in reading more about the significant effect rosemary has on study power and decision making.

Aromas of rosemary and lavender essential oils differentially affect cognition and mood in healthy adults

Smelling lavender and rosemary increases free radical scavenging activity and decreases cortisol level in saliva.

 
Young Living Nutmeg Oil is another favorite essential oil of mine to use in the winter time. It has a spicy scent similar to clove and cinnamon. Like Lemon Grass, it has a brightening effect. It is used to support the nervous/endocrine systems when faced with adrenal or mental fatigue as well.

For clients, nutmeg is a must for cooking or baking. One drop goes a really long way in pasta, quiches and my morning favorite, black tea with cream & honey. I love the lingering warm feeling in my belly and the kitchen.

Lemon Grass  is one of my favorite oils to use in the winter time. It is very clarifying & uplifting to my overall mood. Living in the Bay Area means being subjected to rainy days and foggy mornings. If you are sensitive to cold and lack of sunshine, this oil helps clear the mental cobwebs. I often use it in the morning when I am more prone to heavy thinking and melancholy. It immediately brightens my overall outlook.

I also use it when working in client’s closets and basements that have a tendency to get a bit damp by early January, due to its antifungal and anitmicrobial properties.