While the name suggests some new-agey concoction, in their most basic sense, essential oils are herbs/plants in their highest concentration form. They are that portion of the plant which serves as self protection and self healing. Most medical studies currently being carried out use the essential oil version of the plant as opposed to whole plant matter.
Second, not all essential oils are created equal.
As their healing capabilities become known and popularity increases, more and more companies tend to use extenders and additives to increase supply and reduce costs. These type oils should NEVER be taken internally. Know your source!
Third and finally before we get started, the disclaimer:
This is for informational purposes only. It is not intended to diagnose or treat any condition or disease. Please, always check with your doctor.
Stomach Virus Blend
In this example, I was going for a blend to address a stomach virus making its way around the family. I always use Be Young Essential Oils to ensure the quality and safety of my oils. I chose Oregano and Be Young's Defense Blend. The ratio decided upon was 2 Oregano drops to 1 Defense Blend drop with a total of 3 drops per capsule.
What Ya Need:
• A pill holder. (While these can be purchased at amazon - see below- for about $20, they can be easily made from discarded materials around the house. The one I'm using here is simply a piece of foam which came as packing material and I used a steak knife to cut slits in it to hold the capsules.)
• 2 pipettes. (These also can be found on-line. I found some glass eye droppers at the bulk food store, candy making stores, or wash and reuse two from home)
• A carrier oil. (I use organic, unrefined, traditionally pressed sesame oil. Why? Because it has been found to have NUMEROUS health benefits including cancer prevention/killing. . .but that's another blog! Know that ANY food quality oil can be used. . . If out of sesame oil, I've substituted with extra-virgin olive oil. The main thing here is dilution. If you simply fill your capsules with straight essential oils, they will melt and you'll just have a big mess!
• 3 small bowls. (I've even used coffee cups, saucers or even shot glasses!)
• Empty Capsules. (There are different types - gelatin vs. vegetable - either will do - and also different sizes. I like the 00 size - aprox. 1ml - because it allows more dilution and there's less chance of them "melting". These can be purchased at your local health food store.)
Directions:
1. Separate the capsules putting the larger end in your pill holder with about 2/3 sticking out and the smaller end in a bowl.
2. Pour some carrier oil in one of the small bowls. Using the pipette, fill each capsule about 2/3 full.
4. Stir the Essential Oil Blend up with the other pipette, fill it up and place 3 drops in each capsule.
5. Cap them and store them in a dark container. (used pill bottle, etc.)
I took one of these 3 - 4 times per day, limited my sugars and starches (they create a breeding ground for yeast and bacteria and was good in no time!
