Ginger & Cinnamon Bath Salt Recipe

Ginger is among the healthiest spices.  Due to powerful anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant effects, it is effective at reducing the progression of muscle pain.  It can also help reduce exercise induced muscle soreness. Both ginger and cinnamon encourage circulation, which in turn helps relieve some aches and pains.

What you'll need:

• 1/2 cup coarsely ground sea salt or Epson salt
• 3 teaspoons peeled, ground or grated ginger
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 5 drops orange essential oil (optional, i recommend doTERRA wild orange)

Combine all ingredients and stir well.  Add to your hot bath swish around and soak.  Use immediately.

Papaya, Pineapple & Honey Mask

Pineapples are high in vitamin C and anti-inflammatory substances which is very effective in fighting acne and making your skin clearer. The vitamin C helps your body's ability to heal while the anti-inflammatory substances help prevent new breakouts and the worsening of current ones.  They are full of important antioxidants that work to prevent cell damage within the body by fighting against free radicals.  Pineapples help keep the skin flexible and firm because it increases collagen synthesis.  They will naturally exfoliate your skin so your complexion and tone will improve.

Papaya is best for skin care as it works to provide you with health and glowing skin.  They are a good soure of vitamin A and Papain which helps removing dead skin cells and with breaking down inactive proteins.  Papayas help keep skin hydrated, removes discoloration and reduces the signs of aging.

1 cup fresh organic pineapple

1/2 cup fresh organic papaya

1 tablespoon dark organic honey 

Mash the pineapple and papaya in a food processor and add honey.  Apply to face and leave on for at least 15-20 minutes.  Clean with lukewarm water and apply moisturizer.

Pomegranate & Lemon Juice Mask

Pomegranates are packed with powerful antioxidants making it a great anti-aging agent. This delicious fruit nourishes the skin and prevent damage caused by free radicals. They are also anti-inflammatory and help in stimulating skin cells thereby aiding cellular regeneration. The vitamin C plays a key role in formation of collagen thus making healthy and stronger skin.

1/2 fresh pomegranate

2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice  (you can use the essential oil if you don't have fresh)

1 tablespoon dark organic honey

Peel the pomegranate half and cut into pieces and blend/mash.  Add honey and lemon and mix until you have a nice smooth paste.  Apply to a clean face and neck avoiding the eye area. Leave on for 10-15 minutes, rinse and apply moisturizer. 

Plum Face Scrub

Plums are packed with vitamins and minerals such as vitamin A, vitamin B complex, vitamin C, vitamin K, beta carotene, iron, potassium, calcium, magnesium and more.  Because they are rich in vitamin C they help maintain healthy, radiant and youthful skin.  The vitamin E and beta-carotene allows the body to fight the signs of aging skin.  Plums have a hight amount of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties that increase circulation and cell metabolism, reducing inflammation. This promotes elasticity and keeps acne and wrinkles away.

Mash 2-3 plums, 1 tablespoon ground coffee and 1 teaspoon organic honey.  Exfoliate for 10 minutes, rinse and apply a moisturizer. 

Cinnamon Hair Mask

Cinnamon has been a valued spice for making hair strong and beautiful.  It is believed to stimulate the scalp and increase blood circulation in the body, which ensures hair roots and scalp to get the required nutrition, and oxygen, which leads to strong, beautiful and healthy hair.

Cinnamon contains chemical compounds like eugenol and cinnamaldehyde that offer antiviral, anti-fungal, antibacterial and many other benefits which could help fungal and bacterial infections of the scalp. Cinnamon oil massaged into the scalp has been used in aromatherapy to stimulate the hair follicles. It also has antimicrobial properties which could treat dandruff caused by fungal infections that cause hair loss. It can also be used to treat dry and brittle hair. Applying cinnamon oil to the surrounding areas of the scalp like the neck and temples could channel blood flow to the scalp and stimulate hair growth.

Mix 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, 1 teaspoon honey, 1 tablespoon olive oil and 1 egg to make a paste.   Apply to scalp for 20 minutes and wash out with mild shampoo.

Grape Mask

Grapes are one of the best remedies for overall skincare.  They are high in pytochemicals and phytonutrients which have antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties. They are also rich in vitamin C which is necessary for good healthy skin.  

• The antioxidants and vitamin C in grapes protect the skin from free radicals that are the main cause of premature aging.  
• Grapes can help reverse the appearance of wrinkles and dark spots.
• Organic acids in grapes help facilitate the rejuvenation of skin cells.
• Green grapes are effective in helping with uneven skin tones and lighten acne scars.

Ingredients:

• 4-5 red or green organic grapes
• 1 tablespoon flour

Instructions:

1. Place washed grapes in a blender to make a thick pulp.
2. Strain excess liquid (you can add the liquid to your water for a refreshing drink).
3. Place grapes in a bowl and mix in flour to make a paste. 
4. Apply to a washed face and neck for 10-20 minutes and wash off.
5. Apply this mask 1-2 times a week.

Cucumber and Coffee Cellulite Treatment

Given their watery, hydrating, and vitamin-rich composition, cucumbers are great for the skin and body.  The phytochemicals in the cucumber cause the collagen in your skin to tighten, firming up the outer layer and instantly reducing the visibility of cellulite.  It also helps if you eat cucumbers on a daily bases.  They taste great with a little salt and make a great healthy snack.

Caffeine dilates blood vessels, which serves to temporarily tone and tighten the outer tissues of the skin.  Used on the skin, coffee is beneficial to the body's ability to release toxins and metabolize fat.

• 1/2 cup ground coffee
• cucumber juice
• 1 tbsp. raw honey

Combine all the ingredients to make a thick paste.  Apply to the affected area, wrap with muslin wrap sheet and exfoliate for 30 minutes.  If you don't have muslin wrap sheet, you can exfoliate then wrap with saran wrap.

Blackberry and Lemon Scrub

Blackberry can be a delicious aid in maintaining beautiful skin.  It is packed with multiple nutrients like vitamin C, vitamin E and other potent antioxidants.  The vitamin E present in blackberry helps in maintaining the health of skin fats and prevents the skin from wrinkles. Apart from protecting the skin from oxidative damage, the vitamin C is also responsible for the formation and strengthening of collagen strengthening of collagen structure which is the basis of connective tissue and aids in keeping skin toned and tightened.

Lemon is a natural source of vitamin C which is an ingredient commonly used to lighten sun and age spots to even out skin tone.  It is also a natural astringent that helps tighten pores and brighten the complexion.

You can use this scrub for your face and body.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup blackberries pureed

• 1 1/2 cups of fine granulated sugar  (you can use salt for a deeper more intense scrub)

• juice from one lemon  (you can add zest as well)

• 1/2 cup safflower oil (if you don't have replace with olive oil, avocado oil or coconut oil)

Instruction:

1. Puree blackberries.

2. Add sugar, safflower oil, lemon juice and zest and mix well.

3. Scoop into a jar and store in your refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

Basil Face Mask

Basil has been used for a long time as an ingredient to remedy acne-prone skin.  Because of it's antiseptic propertie, basil not only helps to eradicate existing acne, but it also wards off new breakouts, soothes the skin and helps with circulation.  Also, because of the basil leaves high concentration of anti- aging elements, this mask is just as beneficial for fight fine lines and dull complexion.  Basil oil can also aid in removing dark spots. Combined with gram flour (chickpea flour), this mask is very effective at treating facial blemishes and acne.  Gram flour also has excellent skin whitening properties and is good for lightening acne scars and dark marks.

Grind some basil leaves, mint leaves, a little gram flour and water to make a paste.  Apply to face and leave on for 15-20 minutes.

Lavender Essential Oil

Lavender has been used and cherished for centuries for its unmistakable aroma and myriad of therapeutic benefits. In ancient times, the Egyptians and Romans used Lavender for mummification, bathing, relaxation, cooking, and as a perfume; its ability to calm and soothe the mind and body continue to be Lavender’s most notable qualities. Lavender is frequently used to soothe skin irritations and help skin recover quickly. Applying Lavender to the back of the neck and temples helps reduce muscle tension. Inhaling Lavender promotes relaxation and a restful night’s sleep, making it an ideal oil to diffuse at bedtime and when stress levels are high. Due to Lavender’s versatility and soothing properties, it is considered the must-have oil to have on hand at all times.

Widely used for its calming and relaxing qualities, soothes occasional skin irritations, helps skin recover quickly, and eases muscle tension.

• Add a few drops of Lavender to pillows, bedding, or bottoms of feet for a restful night’s sleep.                

• Keep a bottle of Lavender on hand for minor burns, cuts, and scrapes.

• Freshen your linen closet, mattress, car, or the air by combining Lavender with water in a spray bottle.

• Add to bath water to soak away stress or apply to the temples and the back of the neck to ease muscle tension.

• Use in cooking to soften citrus flavors and add a flavorful twist to marinades, baked goods, and desserts.

Diffusion: Use three to four drops in the diffuser of your choice.                                             Internal use: Dilute one drop in 4 fl. oz. of liquid.                                                                              Topical use: Apply one to two drops to desired area. Dilute with a carrier oil to minimize any skin sensitivity.          

Peach and Yogurt Mask

Peaches are a widely popular delicious, juicy fruit.  Apart from being tasty, this fruit is also a rich source of vitamins, minerals, antioxidant and various other chemical contents. They great source of vitamins A and C, which are highly essential for skin health. Vitamin A provides moisture to the skin, which improves the skin’s texture making it soft and supple. Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that protects the skin from free radical damage. 

• Helps get rid of dark circles and wrinkles.
• Replenishes the upper most layer of the skin, actively preventing skin cancer, suppporting cell production and skin renewal.
• Strengthens the skins natural antioxidant system. Bolster's skins UV defense. They improve the skins hydration and photo-protection, promotes skin elasticity, fights free radicals that may cause premature aging and increased the level of superficial lipids in your skin.
• The Vitamin E in them rejuvenates dull and tired skin, helps heal damaged, heals scar tissue and reduces blemishes.

Mix 1/2 a mashed or pureed peach with 1 tablespoon plain unsweetend yougurt. Apply to face and leave on for 15-20 minutes.

Aloe Vera Plant

Aloe Vera has been used for over five thousand years. Throughout history, it has been considered a magical plant, capable of remedying many of mankind’s ailments. Behind Aloe’s humble and discreet appearance lies hidden what has been defined as a prodigy of nature because of its therapeutic values.

'Cactus,' smiled Daskalos, 'are so much like a human beings: full of thorns on the outside, but able to bear the most lovely flowers!'. Cactus are excellent plants for absorbing negative elementals. Nearly every home has negative elementals in and around them, that come from either family troubles, or from outside forces. The Archangels uses cacti and other plant — especially good is the aloe vera plant — to absorb and de-energize strong elementals that are arisen from an event or from a powerful emotion.

Today, in Egypt, this succulent plant is still considered a symbol of happiness and protection, especially if placed inside a house – it is thought to protect the family by absorbing the negative energies brought into the home by visitors.

Fig Scrub

Figs contain a high amount of Vitamin C (13) which helps to lighten and even out the skin tone. Not just the flesh, the peels of figs too contain active enzyme which act as an exfoliator to clear the dead cell debris from the skin.  Figs have amazing moisturizing properties as they contain around 3/4 cups of water. It is often used as a moisturizer on the skin to restore its suppleness. The enzymes present in figs will remove the dead skin cells and the sugar will mildly polish the skin.

 To make paste:

Take a few fresh figs and process them in a mixer with 1 tablespoon of yogurt to make a fine paste.

 To make scrub:

Mix 1 tablespoon of sugar and 2 tablespoon of fresh orange juice (you can also use a drop or 2 of doTERRA wild orange essential oil)  with 2 tablespoon fig paste and a few drops of olive oil. You can use this scrub on both your face and body weekly to get smooth and soft skin. The enzymes present in figs will remove the dead skin cells and the sugar will mildly polish the skin.

Pear Face Scrub

BENEFITS:

• Pears are loaded with dietary fibers which play a pivotal role in keeping our skin smooth and soft. They decelerate the discharge of sugar into the bloodstream and prevent the damage of skin collagen (certain type of protein) caused due to frequent sugar spikes. Consequently, we get a smooth skin and plump look.

•  The fruit is rich in vitamin C – a super effective antioxidants, vitamin K and copper. These help combat free radicals thereby protecting our skin cells from damages. It eventually helps in toning up the skin and curtailing the formation of fine lines near our eyes as well as lip area.
•  Pears not only good for oily skin, but are also good for dry and flaky skin. They contain natural humectants, which help balance the normal water-content of the skin and retain its natural moisture. 

• The natural enzymes present makes it a great scrubbing agent. You can easily get rid of the dead skin cells present in the superficial layer of your skin.The anti-inflammatory properties of pears works as a beauty remedy.

• Consuming pears or using any beauty products containing its extract does not impose any allergic reactions. Hence, it is good for skin and useful for infants too.

INSTRUCTIONS:

• 1/4 of a Pear (peeled and mashed)
• 1 and 1/2 tbsp. oil (olive or coconut)
• 1/4 c. sugar  (if it's too runny add more sugar)

Pineapple and Papaya Mask

Unripe papaya contains natural alpha-hydroxy acids and high levels of papain, an enzyme that helps dissolve dead skin cells. Pineapple has lots of the enzyme bromelian, which helps remove the outer layers of skin to reduce age spots and wrinkles. Used together, the enzymes and AHAs in papaya and pineapple naturally exfoliate and lighten skin color. 

INGREDIENTS

• 1/2 fresh papaya, peeled and seeded
• 1 cup fresh pineapple
• 1 tablespoon honey (optional)

INSTRUCTIONS

• Juice papaya and pineapple in juicer, blender or mash them up. Strain out the pulp with fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth.
•  Gently wash your chest, neck and face.
• Apply juice to chest, neck and face avoiding the eye area. You can also do the backs of your hands.
• Relax and let it work for 10-15 minutes. It will tingle and itch. This is the AHAs working so try not to scratch.
• Rinse with warm water and moisturize. 

You can do this mask 1-2 times a week. And if you have extra juice, it will keep in the refrigerator in a closed container for a week.

You can also add turmeric to this mask.Its anti-inflammatory powers are used to reduce the signs of aging, exfoliate dead skin, clear the skin and ease eczema.
 

Grapefruit, Oatmeal and Honey Mask

Grapefruit is one of the healthiest things you can eat and it can give you great looking skin from the inside by giving your body the vitamins and nutrients it needs to produce healthy, supple skin. But grapefruit is also one of the healthiest things you can put on your skin. The antioxidants in grapefruit will fight free radicals on the skin's surface and fight lines, wrinkles, discolorations and other skin problems.  Using fresh grapefruit on your skin will leave you with soft, healthy skin and naturally radiant skin.

Mix 1 tablespoon honey, 1/2 a cup of oatmeal and juice from 1/2 of a grapefruit. Then apply to your face, leave on for 15-20 minutes until dry and rinse off.

Avocado, Honey and Cayenne Pepper Hot Mask

Avocado: Filled with vitamins & moisturizing. Vitamin E, healthy fats and antioxidants can help keep your skin smooth.

Cayenne pepper: Stimulates blood flow which helps nutrients get to skin cells allowing for healthy, flawless skin.

Honey: Moisturizing and can also help brighten the skin. Honey has natural antibacterial & antimicrobial properties as well.

• 1/2 ripe avocado
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (if you want to make it extra spicy add 1/2 teaspoon)

Combine ingredients in a bowl and apply to a cleansed face for 10-20 minutes.

Lemon Essential Oil

PRODUCT DESCRIPTION:

The top-selling dōTERRA essential oil, Lemon has multiple benefits and uses. Lemon is a powerful cleansing agent that purifies the air, disinfects surfaces, and can be used as a non-toxic cleaner throughout the home. When added to water, Lemon provides a refreshing and healthy boost throughout the day. Lemon is frequently added to food to enhance the flavor of desserts and main dishes. Due to its high limonene content, Lemon is a powerful antioxidant that can help ward off free radicals. Taken internally, Lemon provides cleansing and digestive benefits, can soothe an irritated throat, and supports healthy respiratory function. When diffused, Lemon is very uplifting and energizing and has been shown to improve mood and cognitive ability.

USES: 

• Diffuse and take internally to assist with seasonal respiratory discomfort.
•  Add Lemon oil to a spray bottle of water to clean and disinfect tables, counter tops, and other surfaces. Lemon oil also makes a great furniture polish; simply add a few drops to olive oil to clean, protect, and shine wood finishes.
•  Use a cloth soaked in Lemon oil to preserve and protect your leather furniture and other leather surfaces or garments.
•  Lemon oil is a great remedy for the early stages of tarnish on silver and other metals. 

DIRECTIONS FOR USE:

Diffusion: Use three to four drops in the diffuser of your choice. Internal use: Dilute one drop in 4 fl. oz. of liquid. Topical use: Apply one to two drops to desired area. Dilute with dōTERRA Fractionated Coconut Oil to minimize any skin sensitivity. See additional precautions below. 

• Cleanses and purifies the air and surfaces 
•  Naturally cleanses the body and aids in digestion 
•  Supports healthy respiratory function
•  Promotes a positive mood and cognitive ability 

CAUTIONS:

Possible skin sensitivity. Keep out of reach of children. If you are pregnant, nursing, or under a doctor’s care, consult your physician. Avoid contact with eyes, inner ears, and sensitive areas. Avoid sunlight or UV rays for up to 12 hours after applying product.

Apple and Honey Face Mask

The apple contains vitamins A, B, and C and which your skin will absorb, contains antioxidant properties, and helps relieve damage from the sun.  In fact, apples have been used in many skincare remedies for sunburns due to these properties.  Apples also contain glycolic acids which helps exfoliate and clear your pores.

Honey is antibacterial and has antioxidant properties.  This will help get rid of topical bacteria and help retain moisture. Also, antioxidants are substances that help protect your skin from free radicals in the environment (chemicals in the air, etc.)

Ingredients

1 apple 

2 tablespoons of honey

Directions

Peel, core, and chop the apple into pieces and put into a blender or food processor.  Add the 2 tablespoons of honey and mix well.  Apply to your face avoiding the eyes. Leave on for about 10-15 minutes and rinse thoroughly with warm water. Tone and moisturize your skin afterwards.

Wild Orange Essential Oil

dōTERRA wild orange essential oil is certified GRAS by the FDA, and is safe for ingestion.  But please bear this in mind: dōTERRA oils are certified pure therapeutic-grade.  Most other essential oils on the market today are not produced to such high standards, and may pose serious risks if taken internally.

Wild orange is one of the most powerful and aromatic of the essential oils.  It is excellent for disinfecting and killing fungus and pathogens.  It has very effective actions against colds and flu, and is highly recommended for use during their early stages.

Wild orange also supports the elimination toxins from the body, while stimulating the lymphatic system.

Wild orange's main constituent, limonene, has powerful anti-cancer activity, suggesting that this oil might be effective as an anti-cancer agent.

It also supports collagen formation in the skin.

Diffusing wild orange is very effective at killing pathogens in the air.  It provides a very pleasant way to disinfect and kill bacteria, and assists with colds and flu.

Diffusing wild orange can also be beneficial for nervous tension and stress, and is relaxing for children at bedtime.

Diffuse in the car on long trips.  It is very calming and uplifting, and relieves stress.  Its anti-fungal, anti-bacterial and anti-pathogenic activity also enhances the enjoyment of travel.

Put 1-2 drops of wild orange in drinking water.  It's a good diuretic, and is most useful in balancing water retention, and may be helpful with obesity.  Its lymphatic-stimulant action further helps to balance water processes, as well as detoxification, aiding the immune system and general well-being.

Adding 1-2 drops of this oil to ¼ cup of water and drinking can be very helpful for acid reflex or heartburn.  It has a powerful alkalizing effect on the system, making it very effective for many digestive issues.

Blended in massage oil or added to a bath, wild orange assists with colds and flu, eliminates toxins from the body, boosts the lymphatic and immune system and helps ease nervous tension and stress.

Use in massage for its invigorating, yet calming, properties.  Can be very helpful for muscle pain.

Mix with a carrier oil and massage on an infant's tummy to sooth stomach ache.

Add to furniture polish, to help protect furniture against damage from insects.

Add several drops of wild orange oil to some water in a spray bottle, shake well, to disperse the oil, and spritz on bed sheets, drapes or upholstery.  May also be sprayed into the air as a fragrant, pathogen-killing air freshener for kitchens and bathrooms.

Mix wild orange oil with water, to wipe down kitchen and bathroom surfaces.

Add a 5-10 drops of dōTERRA wild orange essential oil to your cake batter.  Enjoy!!!