Are ready to explore some healthy tips to get your wellness journey started off right?
I know that some healthy lifestyle choices are hard. Do you struggle to order the salad over the burger? Lack motivation to get your booty off the couch and get some exercise? Been there! But guess what?! YL makes it easy to make healthy choices and you are going to discover how in this post!
**Before we get too deep, I want to remind you that...I'm just like you. I am not a doctor. I am not here to diagnose, treat, or cure any of your illnesses. The content I cover is for informational purposes only and is presented from my own studies and experiences. Now then, let's get started!
CITRUS WATER
When exercise and healthy changes become a big part of our new routine it is important to stay hydrated for many reasons. It regulates body temperature, lubricates joints, and transports nutrients and waste throughout the body, which are all important for health.
TIPS
1. Don't confuse hunger with thirst! The same part of your brain is responsible for both, which can result in mixed signals.
2. When you think you're hungry, try drinking a glass of water & waiting 15 min. If this satisfies you, you were thirsty. Some dehydration symptoms include dry eyes, headache, sluggishness, nausea, dizziness, dry skin & constipation.
3. One of my favorite ways to spruce up a glass of water is to add YL's Vitality oils. One drop is powerful enough to flavor a big glass of water. Add your favorite flavor and enjoy a refreshing glass of water.
Flavors to try: Lemon, Orange, Grapefruit, Lime, Tangerine or Peppermint Vitality!
- Lemon Vitality supports your detoxification organs.
- Grapefruit Vitality is a great way to support a healthy metabolism which is important to reach your weight goals.
- Peppermint Vitality is perfect in your fitness water when you are looking for more endurance and support with oxygenation.
- Rosemary Vitality can add a special twist to your citrus water. It supports your immune, respiratory, and nervous system.
*NOTE: When drinking citrus water, make sure you drink out of stainless steel, glass, or ceramic. Citrus oils will eat away at anything with petrochemicals in it and you do not want to be digesting broken down petrochemicals.
Citrus oils are cold pressed from the rind. The essential oil does not contain critic acid which means sipping on lemon water flavored by essential oils is not harsh on your enamel like it is when you squeeze a fresh lemon into your water.
START YOUR MORNING OFF RIGHT!
There are lots of different breakfast options and NO, donuts aren't on your list anymore, even if they are filled with "fruit." Coffee is also not an acceptable "breakfast" when you are creating new healthy habits. If you usually find yourself grabbing a quick EASY Pop-Tart breakfast or skipping because you don't have time, go to bed 15 minutes earlier so you can wake up 15 minutes earlier and have time for a HEALTHY breakfast. You don't have to over complicate it. A killer smoothie is just the thing you need to get your day going and takes about 5 minutes to make.
Some powerful ingredients to a morning smoothie are NingXia Red, Lemon Vitality, and any protein powder from Young Living.
- NingXia Red is full of antioxidants from Chinese wolfberries and other fruit juices. They create an unfriendly environment for free radicals which is a huge PLUS! Google it if you don't know about free radicals.
- Lemon Vitality supports your detoxification organs which are important for keeping the body healthy and clean.
- Protein is a building block of cells throughout the body. It is necessary for healthy skin, nails, muscles, cartilage and blood. Protein helps to build and repair bodily tissues, and it is used to produce hormones and enzymes.
Protein also provides the amino acids your brain needs to function at its optimal level. When you eat protein for breakfast, you will feel more energized and ready to take on your day.
Adults in the U.S. are encouraged to get 10% to 35% of their daily calories from protein-rich foods. That's about 46 grams of protein for women, and 56 grams of protein for men. (https://www.webmd.com/food-recipes/protein)
Popular YL protein powders are:
- Pure Protein Complete - Chocolate Item # 3298 - 25 grams of Protein per serving (2 scoops)
- Pure Protein Complete - Vanilla Spice 3301 - 25 grams of Protein per serving (2 scoops)
- Slique Shake - 16 grams of protein per serving (1 package) Item #5552 (Vegan option)
TIP TO GO GREEN!
Spinach is a great green to add to your smoothie because it doesn't have an overpowering flavor. Raw spinach is not as nutritious as cooked spinach. Its iron content is more available when cooked and it contains considerably larger amounts of beta-carotene, lutein, vitamins, and minerals; however, cooking your spinach before tossing it in a smoothie just tacks on more time. In order to increase the absorption of these vital minerals, eat your raw spinach with citrus fruits. The vitamin C helps facilitate iron absorption. The easiest way to do this is to add a splash of citrus. I also add a drop or two of citrus vitality to bring a little sweetness to the dish. #SpinachHack
Below are some smoothie recipes you simply MUST try...
NINGXIA BERRY BLAST
1 oz NingXia Red
2 drops Lemon Vitality
Splash of Orange Juice or any citrus juice
1 Slique Shake packet
1 cup mixed frozen organic berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, blackberries)
1 handful of organic spinach
1 cup almond or coconut milk
PEANUT BUTTER AND JELLY SPICE
2 scoops Pure Protein Complete Vanilla
1/2 of a large frozen organic banana
1/2 cup frozen organic blueberries
1 spoonful of organic peanut butter (or any other nut butter)
1 cup Almond or coconut milk
PEANUT BUTTERCUP SMOOTHIE
1 big spoonful of organic peanut butter or any other nut butter
2 scoops of Pure Protein Complete Chocolate
12 oz Almond milk
MIDMORNING SNACK
About three hours after you eat your yummy breakfast, grab a healthy snack. By eating every three hours, blood sugar levels will be more consistent and the body's metabolism will remain in a heightened state.
SNACK TIP
Prepare your snacks in advance to make them easy to grab-and-go. If you have a snack on hand, you are less likely to turn to something sugary and processed that will make you feel sluggish while hindering your new healthy habits. Let's look at some different nut options for your trail mix...
~ALMONDS lower cholesterol & are a good source of the minerals zinc, magnesium & potassium. Rich in antioxidant vitamin E, they support the brain, the cardiovascular & respiratory systems + help keep skin healthy. Their high fiber helps regulate blood sugar.
~CASHEWS contain lots of minerals, making them great for healthy bones & also with the formulation of collagen, essential for healthy skin & body tissue. They contain healthy fats that protect against heart disease & cancer.
~PISTACHIOS contain the two anti-inflammatories beta-carotene & the compound oleanolic acid, as well as phytosterols, a type of anti-inflammatory plant hormone associated with improved immune function.
~WALNUTS are a rich source of alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), an omega-3 fatty acid. ALA helps lower "unhealthy" (LDL) cholesterol levels & keeps arteries healthy. They also contain the antioxidants ellagic acid and a mix of tocopherols including alpha, delta & gamma tocopherol, which help reduce the risk of cancer & heart disease.
Mix these nuts in any ratio to your liking and then top them off with the powerhouse super fruit, dried NINGXIA WOLFBERRIES. NingXia Wolfberries add a bit of sweetness to each bite. They also add even more antioxidants and support healthy muscles, vision, and neurological system. They also support a healthy metabolic system which is important in the production of energy and oxygen being carried by red blood cells.
Do NOT, I repeat, DO NOT forget to add these awesome dried berries to your snack to make it colorful, yummy, and healthy!
Organic Dried Wolfberries 16 oz Item #6360
HEALTHY LUNCH
Nothing says healthy louder than a salad, but salads can be boring unless you douse them in dressing, which defeats the purpose of having a salad. My best tip for making salads that are enjoyable is to add multiple textures and top it off with a dressing that is healthy and delicious.
SALAD SPECTACULAR Combine some of these healthy favorites for a variety of nutrients:
~Mixed greens - add a variety of nutrients.
Carrots, cucumbers, and celery add a nice crunch.
~Avocado - This healthy fat helps keep joints supple, lowers blood pressure, and helps improve fertility! ~Remember when I talked about adding citrus to your spinach to increase absorption? Adding avocado fruit to a salad helps increase the bioavailability of its lutein, a carotenoid that can’t be absorbed unless accompanied by fat.
TIP: The majority of the nutrients in avocados is in the dark green part closest to the skin. Make sure you scrape all that goodness into your salad, or cut the avocado in quarters and peel the skin off as you would a banana.
If you are not avoiding nightshade vegetables, add in some peppers! They are great for healthy skin, bone, eye and heart health.
Add extra liver support by including arugula, dandelion, radishes, and beets in your salad.
Now that your salad is filled with colorful, nutritious veggies, it's time to top it with a dressing that is delicious and nutritious.
NINGXIA RED DRESSING
- 1 oz NingXia Red
- 1 oz. Extra Virgin Olive Oil
- 1 oz. Apple Cider Vinegar
- 3 drops Lime Vitality Essential Oil
- 1 oz. Extra Virgin Olive Oil
- 1 oz. Apple Cider Vinegar
- 3 drops Lime Vitality Essential Oil
Blend together in a blender or with a hand mixer to emulsify. Store in the fridge.
AFTERNOON SNACK
Veggies and dip anyone? Here is an enjoyable vegetable dip recipe to help you last through the afternoon all the way to dinner.
2 cups plain Greek yogurt
6 drops Dill Vitality™ oil or 1 tablespoon dried dill weed
2 drops Lemon Vitality oil or ½ teaspoon lemon juice
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon Himalayan pink salt
6 drops Dill Vitality™ oil or 1 tablespoon dried dill weed
2 drops Lemon Vitality oil or ½ teaspoon lemon juice
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon Himalayan pink salt
Mix together, chop your favorite veggies and enjoy!
Let's address the health benefits of dill and garlic.
DILL essential oil has a calming effect on the digestive tract.
GARLIC is a natural anticoagulant; it helps strengthen your immune system, removes toxins and pollutants, and contains anti-cancer substances.
Finding ways to make old snacks with a healthy twist can be the trick to allowing you to stay on track with your new health goals.
DINING IN
Making your own dinner will not only save you money, but it will also help you cut back on calories and allow you to eat a well balanced meal.
Einkorn Rotini Pasta item # 5750
No Preservatives | Non-GMO Ingredients | Stone-Ground Ancient Grain
Einkorn is one of the oldest varieties of wheat; Einkorn’s natural genetic code and low gluten levels make it more compatible with the human body than modern, hybridized wheat. What does that mean?
It means that Einkorn grain is easier to digest, making nutrients better absorbed by the body. And speaking of nutrients, many vitamins and minerals are also more abundant in Einkorn grain than in modern wheat, making it a must-have for your pantry.
Made of highly nutritious, unhybridized Einkorn flour, Gary’s True Grit™ Einkorn Rotini is your go-to foundation for nutritious, delicious, fun meals that bring the goodness of Einkorn wheat to the dinner table. Einkorn Rotini is just one more way Young Living is delivering goodness from their fields to your family.
Here is a hearty and healthy dinner recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds, guilt-free and easy as 1, 2, 3...
1. 1 bag Einkorn Pasta - cook per directions. Do NOT overcook pasta.
2. Drizzle olive oil on pasta.
3. Add favorite veggies and toppers such as broccoli, red and orange peppers, black olives, mozzarella cheese. Chill in the fridge and enjoy! Perfect for a quick healthy dinner when you have had a late night at the office or have to rush off to take the kids to practice.
NEED MOTIVATION?
For some, the eating part of health and wellness is hard and for others, it's the exercise that's the hardest. You have all the best intentions to work out, but to actually get up, put your shoes on, and get out the door to break a sweat is insanely challenging.
This is a time when we absolutely turn to our essential oils to support our emotions and help get us moving.
If you are feeling unmotivated, grab your Motivation blend!
If you are feeling frustrated, grab your Release blend.
If you feel like things just aren't going how you want, grab your Believe blend and start speaking life over yourself.
These singles and blends are great for your healthy diet and exercise goals, but they can be used to support every other aspect of your life as well.
If you are looking for a prosperous New Year, then Abundance oil NEEDS to be your new daily habit.
I know it may seem a bit bizarre to apply oils to start attracting everything good in your life, but it works. If you don't believe me, sniff some Believe oil, apply your Abundance and watch the magic happen.
It has to do with frequencies. Have you ever heard anyone say, "I always have bad luck"? It could very well be because they send out negative energy and they get back what they put out, negative energy, AKA bad luck. Emotions have a frequency. When you put out positive high frequencies, you get back positive high frequencies, AKA great amazing things happening in your life. Abundance helps you do that.
Some must-have favorites to diffuse for New Year's goals are...
- Abundance
- Believe
- Motivation
- Gratitude
- Acceptance
- Release
--Present Time
- Abundance
- Believe
- Motivation
- Gratitude
- Acceptance
- Release
--Present Time
Diffuse them individually when needed, or combine two drops Abundance, two drops Motivation, and 3 drops Lemon for a KILLER motivational all-things-good blend.
BODY POWDER
Talcum powder is one of those ingredients commonly found in baby and body powders. While some argue it is "safe," others disagree, and after Johnson & Johnson had to pay out $417 million in damages to a terminally ill woman due to the talcum in their baby powder, I am going to just err on the side of caution and stick with a homemade version that I KNOW is safe and effective.
BODY POWDER- 1/2 cup Arrowroot powder (substitute all or part cornstarch if desired)
- 1/4 cup Kaolin Clay
- 1/4 cup Magnesium Carbonate powder (sub Baking Soda if desired)
- 8 drops Lavender Essential Oil
- 8 drops Tea Tree Essential Oil
- 5 drops Rosemary Essential Oil
Blend arrowroot, kaolin clay and magnesium carbonate well in a small bowl. Add essential oils and blend well to distribute the essential oils. Store in an air-tight container. Apply to under arms, feet and any other areas you want to keep dry.
SOURCE REFERENCE: Article on J&J pay out. (http://www.huffingtonpost.co.uk/…/is-talcum-powder-safe-ova…)
GYM REFRESHER
New health goals may lead you to the gym more often than you have gone in the past, which is GREAT, but frequent trips to the gym can lead to a less than desirable smell from your gym bag. Don't let your gym bag odor keep you from focusing on your fitness. This easy Gym Bag Freshening Spray can be used on your clothes, shoes, in your bag or anywhere else you feel needs a little refresher.
GYM BAG FRESHENING SPRAY
- 2 TBS witch hazel
- 15 drops of preferred essential oil
- 3 oz of water
- 15 drops of preferred essential oil
- 3 oz of water
Combine ingredients and use as needed.
Purification is great for getting odors out of shoes and a stinky gym bag.
Thieves is preferred when wet gym clothes will be stuck in your bag all day.
Thieves is preferred when wet gym clothes will be stuck in your bag all day.
MUSCLE RELIEF CREAM
There is nothing worse than getting back in the gym or hitting the pavement and then being so sore the following day or two that you can't get back out there to break another sweat. While there are so many essential oils to use during your work out, there is one combo that is perfect for your muscles and joints post-work-out. Whip yourself up this body butter and store at room temperature. Apply this muscle relief cream to main areas you targeted during your work-out. Apply several times within 24 hours for more relief.
Don't forget to drink extra citrus water to stay hydrated.
INGREDIENTS
1/2 cup Shea Butter
1/2 cup Cocoa Butter
1/2 cup Coconut Oil
1/2 cup light oil (like almond, jojoba or olive)
15 drops PanAway - soothing to muscles and joints.
10 drops Peppermint - add more for a deeper cooling sensation.
10 drops Marjoram - relaxing and calming to muscles.
10 drops Copaiba - known to enhance the effects of other oils.
1/2 cup Cocoa Butter
1/2 cup Coconut Oil
1/2 cup light oil (like almond, jojoba or olive)
15 drops PanAway - soothing to muscles and joints.
10 drops Peppermint - add more for a deeper cooling sensation.
10 drops Marjoram - relaxing and calming to muscles.
10 drops Copaiba - known to enhance the effects of other oils.
DIRECTIONS
- In a double boiler, combine Shea Butter, Cocoa Butter, Coconut Oil, and Jojoba oil. Stir constantly until melted.
- In a double boiler, combine Shea Butter, Cocoa Butter, Coconut Oil, and Jojoba oil. Stir constantly until melted.
- Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Mix in your essential oils.
- Move to fridge and let cool another 1 hour or until starting to harden but still somewhat soft.
- Use a hand mixer to whip for 10 minutes until fluffy.
- Return to fridge for 10-15 minutes to set.
- Store in a glass jar with a lid.
Wintergreen and Lavender are two other favorites and perfect for post workout muscle cream.
COFFEE CELLULITE SCRUB
Did you know that coffee grounds have amazing benefits for your skin? Benefits include:
- exfoliating and soothing of skin
- anti-inflammatory properties and reduced eye puffiness
- temporary reduction of cellulite
- improved circulation
- anti-inflammatory properties and reduced eye puffiness
- temporary reduction of cellulite
- improved circulation
WHY COFFEE GROUNDS?
Caffeine actually helps tighten the skin, which can help reduce cellulite. When applied under and around the eyes, it can minimize the appearance of puffy eyes because caffeine restricts blood vessels, which reduces swelling and inflammation. It can also help treat non-hereditary dark circles under the eyes.
Caffeine actually helps tighten the skin, which can help reduce cellulite. When applied under and around the eyes, it can minimize the appearance of puffy eyes because caffeine restricts blood vessels, which reduces swelling and inflammation. It can also help treat non-hereditary dark circles under the eyes.
INGREDIENTS
- 8 oz glass jar lid
- 10 drops Grapefruit
- 5 drops Cypress
- 1 cup ground coffee
- ½ cup olive oil or other oil of your choosing
- 10 drops Grapefruit
- 5 drops Cypress
- 1 cup ground coffee
- ½ cup olive oil or other oil of your choosing
DIRECTIONS
- Combine all ingredients.
- Mix together well.
- Store in a cool dark place.
- Mix together well.
- Store in a cool dark place.
Apply all over in the shower a few times a week to desired areas such as thighs, belly + arms & rinse off.
GRAPEFRUIT ESSENTIAL OILS AND YOUR SKIN
Because Grapefruit essential oil benefits healthy skin with an uplifting aroma, it is a key ingredient in popular Young Living products such as Cel-Lite Magic™ Massage Oil, Highest Potential™, and Citrus Fresh™. But, as always...safety first, so a reminder...citrus oils can be photosensitive. So, be sure to use proper precautions when applying to skin within a few hours of sun exposure!
Because Grapefruit essential oil benefits healthy skin with an uplifting aroma, it is a key ingredient in popular Young Living products such as Cel-Lite Magic™ Massage Oil, Highest Potential™, and Citrus Fresh™. But, as always...safety first, so a reminder...citrus oils can be photosensitive. So, be sure to use proper precautions when applying to skin within a few hours of sun exposure!
Whew! That was a lot, friend. But, I am so excited to see your health improve and I am so proud you have taken time to focus on your own health and well being.
Final tip...Don't feel like you have to make all the changes at once or even ever.
Take what feels good here and leave the rest.
Its the small, consistent things we do that feel right for us individually that make all the difference.
Thanks to Healing Foods: Eat your way to a healthier life by DK Publishing for content regarding food nutrients in this post.
If you'd like an easy button for ordering anything referenced in this blog, you can find my YL Wishlist here! And my favorite accessories for whipping up the magic on Amazon at this link!
Let's Connect
The wise men brought three gifts to the baby Jesus: gold, frankincense, and myrrh. He was King, so gold makes sense, but why frankincense and myrrh? Why were these given to baby Jesus and what makes them so important and special? Historically, essential oils or aromatic oils were used by Egyptians as early as 4500 B.C. Scripturally, oils appear in the Bible time and time again, often referencing olive oil, but the oils we are about to explore are also all mentioned.
I'm talking about the Oils of Ancient Scripture collection. This incredible kit comes with 10 precious oils that are rich in history and traditions. Many of the oils in this collection are good for prayer. Prayer has many forms. Sometimes it is much like meditation in that it is a time for thought and reflection. Did you know that meditation can actually help our immunes systems? Rudolph Tanzi, who holds positions both at Harvard University and Massachusetts General Hospital, stated that “Meditation is one of the ways to engage in restorative activities that may provide relief for our immune system, easing the day-to-day stress of a body constantly trying to protect itself.” Who knew?!
So, let's dive in and learn more about each of these oils, shall we?
Aloes aka (Sacred Sandalwood)
“He was accompanied by Nicodemus, the man who earlier had visited Jesus at night. Nicodemus brought a mixture of myrrh and aloes, about seventy-five pounds. 40 Taking Jesus’ body, the two of them wrapped it, with the spices, in strips of linen. This was in accordance with Jewish burial customs.” John 19:39-40
Aloes appears in the Bible five times in both the old and the new testament. It’s believed to be made from fragrant sandalwood. It was most notably used to prepare Jesus’ body for burial.
Then:Historically, it is thought to be one of the oldest types of incense used during rituals and meditation, especially among the Egyptians and for embalming. The amount of aloes that Nicodemus bought showed his incredible wealth. That amount (75-100 lbs) of Sandalwood would be worth over $200,000 in today’s market. It also showed how important Jesus was.
Now:
Sandalwood is known to have a warm, woodsy and slightly sweet aroma.
Common uses:
- Upscale spa treatments and yoga studios use it to enhance member experiences.
- Try diffusing when you’re a little revved up or when your mind won’t turn off. It can be very effective before bedtime.
- You can use it as a perfume or cologne.
- It has incredible properties for the skin. Apply topically to enhance the natural radiance of healthy-looking skin or add it to your daily skin care regimen to reduce the appearance of fine lines, puffiness, and blemishes.
Cassia
Cassia: a spice made from the bark of East Asian evergreen trees.
“All your robes are fragrant with myrrh and aloes and cassia; from palaces adorned with ivory the music of the strings makes you glad. “ Psalm 45:8
Then:
Cassia is mentioned three times in the Bible- all in the Old Testament. It was a key ingredient in the incense used in temple worship; it was also used as the anointing oil and the oil that burned daily in the temple lamps. It also dates back to Egyptian times and was used during mummification.
Now:
It’s noted for its unmistakable fragrance and calming aromatic properties. While its aroma is very closely related to cinnamon, the chemical properties are quite different.
Common uses:
- Put a drop or two on your fingers and rub your hands through your hair to provide a pleasant aroma to your hair.
- Add one drop to citrus blends or diffuse with Clove, Ginger or Christmas Spirit during the fall, winter, and holidays.
Tips & Safety:
If used topically, it needs to be diluted with a carrier oil because it can feel “hot” to the skin unless diluted. If the warming sensation is too strong, just apply more carrier oil.
Use with caution if pregnant and avoid contact with sensitive areas like the eyes; do not use on children. It can cause skin sensitivity, so test on a small area first.
Cedarwood
“His young shoots will grow. His splendor will be like an olive tree, his fragrance like a cedar of Lebanon.” Hosea 14:6
Then:
This versatile wood is mentioned 21 times in the Bible. The wood was used to build Solomon’s beautiful temple and it was known for its durability. The ancient Egyptians used Cedarwood oil to embalm, for perfumery, and in cosmetics; the ancient Greeks also used Cedarwood oil on bodies as they believed it helped to make one immortal.
Now:
Cedarwood has a warm, woodsy aroma that creates a comforting, uplifting experience.
Common uses:
- It’s often found in men’s aftershaves and colognes because of its scent. Add a drop to your aftershave lotion.
- Add it to your favorite skin care products or lotions to help create smoother skin.
- Add it to your shampoo & conditioner for shinier, healthier-looking hair.
- Many people find it helpful for restful sleep, diffuse or apply topically before bed.
Cypress
“He cut down cedars, or perhaps took a cypress or oak. He let it grow among the trees of the forest, or planted a pine, and the rain made it grow.” Isaiah 44:14
This oil is extracted from the cypress tree, which has wood so durable that the cypress doors of Rome’s St. Peter’s Basilica show no signs of decay, even after 1,200 years!
Then:
Cypress is mentioned five times biblically and all in the Old Testament. The tree was used mostly for its wood as it was strong and durable. Noah used it to build the ARK! Greeks and Romans used it for relieving upset tummies and used the leaves of the tree to help treat.... OK, I don’t know if I can say, or want to, so just go Google it. =)
Now:
Cypress has a fresh and herbaceous aroma. It can be grounding and energizing at the same time when diffused. It can help restore feelings of security and stability.
Common uses:
- Those with oily complexions, add one drop to your moisturizer to increase the radiant look of your skin.
- Diffuser 4-6 drops to increase motivation.
- Mix 3 drops of Cypress with a carrier oil and massage your legs to get the blood flowing and your energy and motivation up before a run.
Fun Fact:
It's an evergreen that is used frequently in landscaping. I bet you see it all the time and had no idea that it was a Cypress. Google and search for an image so you can spot it as you drive by homes!
Frankincense
“On coming to the house, they saw the child with his mother Mary, and they bowed down and worshiped him. Then they opened their treasures and presented him with gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh.” Matthew 2:11
The Hebrew word for frankincense, levonah, is used in the Bible 22 times, making it one of the most recognized materials in scripture. Most famously it was a gift given to the infant Jesus when the wise men came to visit him.
Then:An ancient aromatic resin used for incense, perfumes & balms, Frankincense was a consecrated incense described in the Bible for use in offerings & ceremonies in the temple in Jerusalem...a symbol of holiness & righteousness. The gift of frank to Christ was symbolic of his willingness to become a sacrifice, analogous to a burnt offering in the temple. It is also said to be symbolic of his deity.
Now:
Aromatically this oil has an earthy and uplifting smell that creates a comforting, safe, and empowering environment.
Common uses:
- Diffuse or apply to enhance meditation & prayer.
- Apply one drop of oil to your face moisturizer; its rejuvenating properties will brighten & beautify your skin.
- Add a drop or two to your hand moisturizer to help avoid those dry hands!
- Apply a few drops of frankincense to “the girls” daily.
Hyssop
“Cleanse me with hyssop, and I will be clean; wash me, and I will be whiter than snow” Psalms 51:7
The 12 Biblical references to this plant indicate it was likely used in practices and rituals intended to purify and cleanse.
Then:
Hyssop has a slightly sweet scent and was considered a sacred oil in ancient Egypt, Israel, and Greece. It is in the same family as mint. This plant was used in traditional and herbal practices for centuries to promote wellness.
Now:
Its fragrant scent stimulates creativity and meditation.
Common uses:
- Apply a drop or two or diffuse 4-8 drops during work, play, yoga, or a long study session.
- Safety: Please dilute well if using topically and do not use on small children.
Myrrh
“Then they offered him wine mixed with myrrh, but he did not take it.” Mark 15:23
“On coming to the house, they saw the child with his mother Mary, and they bowed down and worshiped him. Then they opened their treasures and presented him with gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh.” Matthew 2:11
Myrrh is mentioned 17 times in the Bible and is found in both the Old and New Testament.
Then:It was a key ingredients in Moses’ holy anointing oil & as incense in the holy temple. It's used particularly for the mouth & gums. It was given to the baby Jesus by one of the wise men to foreshadow his death because in ancient times it symbolized bitterness, suffering & affliction. It was also employed in embalming & religious ceremonies.
Now:
Myrrh oil is valued around the world for its beautifying properties & grounding aroma. Myrrh is common in cosmetic & aromatic industries. It is said to help promote a smooth & youthful complexion. It also has many health benefits. A quick Google search, “benefits of Myrrh oil” will share some valuable information.
Common uses:
- Add a drop, along with frankincense to your daily skincare routine.
- Add a drop to any skin balm recipe.
- Diffuse 4-8 drops for a calming and relaxing environment.
Myrtle
“Go out into the hill country and bring back branches from olive and wild olive trees, and from myrtles, palms and shade trees, to make temporary shelters”—as it is written.” Nehemiah 8:15
Biblically, myrtle branches were used in ceremonies and were also a sign of God’s goodness; they are mentioned seven times, all in the Old Testament.
Then:
Sukkot, commonly translated as the Feast of Tabernacles, includes myrtle branches in its ceremony. Sukkot is a weeklong Jewish holiday that comes five days after Yom Kippur. Sukkot celebrates the gathering of the harvest and commemorates the miraculous protection God provided for the children of Israel when they left Egypt.
Now:
It is still used in Sukkot ceremonies today! It is difficult to source and has a fresh, sweet aroma, which may help clear the mind. Two favorite oil blends containing it are Purification and R.C.
Common uses:
- Add a drop to your nighttime skin routine to enhance the appearance of healthy-looking skin.
- Diffuse 4-8 drops to elevate your mood.
Onycha
“Then the Lord said to Moses, “Take fragrant spices—gum resin, onycha and galbanum—and pure frankincense, all in equal amounts.” Exodus 30:34
Onycha was an ingredient in the “pure and holy” perfume or incense the Lord commanded Moses to make.
There are varying opinions as to what Onycha actually was but there are many that agree that it is likely Benzoin, a balsamic resin obtained from the bark of several species of trees. That is what Young Living’s Oil is made of, having a sweet and woody vanilla-like aroma.
Then:
It was used in perfumes, some kinds of incense and as a flavoring. It was also used for medicinal purposes. It was said to help heighten your spiritual experiences.
Onycha oil is mentioned in the Bible one time directly and 54 times indirectly. It was an important oil of ancient times!
Now:
It continues to be a major component of incense for churches today. It's also used in everything from perfume to cosmetics. As an oil, it is warm and can help support your emotions and help you connect spiritually. It is a calming and grounding scent.
Common uses:
- Diffuse 4-8 drops to feel calm.
- Add a drop to your skincare routine.
Rose of Sharon
“I am a rose of Sharon, a lily of the valleys. Like a lily among thorns is my darling among the young women. Like an apple tree among the trees of the forest is my beloved among the young men. I delight to sit in his shade, and his fruit is sweet to my taste.” Song of Solomon 2:1
Cistus is believed to be the biblical rose of Sharon.
Then:
Shepherds in biblical times frequently used Rose of Sharon for cuts and wounds. It was said to help slow bleeding and prevent infection. It was also used as a perfume and may have been another component of incense in biblical times.
Now:
Its honey-like fragrance is soothing and uplifting. Think "calming" with this oil, calming physically when applied topically and calming to your emotions when diffused. When you can create a calming atmosphere, your spirits can rise, which is perfect for this time of year.
Common uses:
- Apply 2-3 drops diluted to joints when needed.
- Add 2-3 drops to a booboo roller or any skin balm recipe. Pinterest is a great place to look for recipes!
- Diffuse 4-8 drops for a calming atmosphere. Perfect during meditation or counseling.
That's a wrap! But, wow, right? What a powerful collection of oils with some dynamic history!
Thank you so much for jumping in here with me and taking a look at the Oils of Ancient Scriptures. If you'd like to grab this collection for yourself...you can do so here!
As always, please feel free to reach out with any questions or if I can be of any assistance!
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