North Fulton Family Life 1-18

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are typically used in the following ways: topically, inhalation with a diffuser, or ingestion. When essential oils are applied anywhere on the body, they actually pass through your skin and into your circulatory system and cells. The soles of your feet are a popular area for topical application because the larger pores there provide almost immediate absorption. Other key areas include the back of the neck, temples, behind the ears, abdomen, upper back, and along the spine. Many essential oils are so powerful when used topically or orally that dilution with a carrier oil, such as olive or coconut oil, is recommended.

A very popular way to use essential oils is to just add 15 drops into a diffuser or bowl of hot water and breathe it in. Diffusing essential oils can have great health benefits because of their ability to travel through the air into your olfactory system, which is connected directly to your brain and can enter your cells and blood stream in seconds. This method of healing by means of the olfactory is often called aromatherapy. Your child’s recovery from a cold or illness is expedited by diffusing cloves and frankincense essential oils into the air; this combination is also excellent for preventing illness. Other commonly diffused oils are lemon to clean the air; peppermint to improve energy; and lavender for headache reduction and relaxation.

Research suggests that some oils are more effective when ingested; however, only therapeutic-grade oils should be ingested and only if recommended by your physician or health care specialist. Dosage and dilution varies according to the age, size, and health of the individual. Dried herbs and spices such as ginger root, cinnamon and Echinacea have health benefits. Also, consuming healthy foods like fresh vegetables can support healing, but nothing surpasses the healing properties of essential oils. Please note: Not all essential oils are created equally. Essential oils should be bottled in dark glass containers to protect them from oxidation and sunlight. Like herbal supplements, essential oils are not certified by the FDA. Terms such as pure, natural, and therapeutic grade are marketing terms and are no indication of the efficacy of the product. Do your research, not only of the oil, but also the company and processing methods.

Diffusing

essential oils can have great health benefits ...

> prevents illness > cleans air > improves energy > reduces headaches > promotes relaxation

Arlene Stearns is the owner of ImageUp™ System, and a representative of NuSkin/ Pharmanex, which includes a line of essential oils.

Serving Roswell, Alpharetta & Milton

WWW. FAMILYLIFE PUBLICATIONS.COM

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