It's long been known that many essential oils contain off the chart levels of anti-oxidants (measured in ORAC) that can help boost the body's defenses against free radicals.

What's exciting is this study published in the April 1999 Issue of Nutrition Science News that shows how compounds called Monoterpenes have shown in lab studies to be effective against cancer and even have the power to shrink existing tumors!

So where can you find monoterpenes? We are lucky to have a very good source in our Young Living Orange Essential Oil which contains a very high tested level of a compound called limonene, which is a monoterpene.

Read the article below which highlights the findings of several studies on monoterpenes and then scroll all the way to the bottom to learn more about Orange Oil and how to use it in your wellness routine.

As you might expect, this article and the one referenced below are not meant to substitute for medical advice and are not to be seen as a self-treatment plan. They are merely for your education and information. Cancer is a serious disease, please seek a medical professional for diagnosis and treatment.

Monoterpenes: Essence of a Cancer Cure.

From The April 1999 Issue of Nutrition Science News

By Cindy L.A. Jones, Ph.D.

Essential oils, the highly concentrated volatile, aromatic essences of plants, are a mainstay of aromatherapy but are also used in flavoring, perfumes and even as solvents. Researchers now think that two components of orange oil and lavender oil are a good bet to prevent and treat cancer.

Most essential oils contain monoterpenes, compounds that contain 10 carbon molecules often arranged in a ring. Monoterpenes are formed in the mevalonic acid pathway in plants. This is the same pathway that makes cholesterol in animals and humans. Early on, cancer researchers realized that some aspects of cholesterol metabolism were involved in cancer growth. They then discovered that plant monoterpenes interfered with animal cholesterol synthesis, thereby reducing cholesterol levels and reducing tumor formation in animals.

Limonene and Perillyl Alcohol

Two widely studied monoterpenes are being evaluated for their anticancer activity, limonene from orange peel (Citrus sinensis) and perillyl alcohol from lavender (Lavandula angustifolia).

Because limonene and perillyl affect the pathway that produces cholesterol, they can inhibit cholesterol synthesis, thereby eliminating a minor contributor to cancer formation. Monoterpenes also increase the levels of liver enzymes involved in detoxifying carcinogens, an effect that decreases the possibility carcinogens will cause cellular damage. In addition, monoterpenes stimulate apoptosis, a cellular self-destruction mechanism triggered when a cell's DNA is badly damaged. This safety feature is generally activated before a cell becomes cancerous. Finally, monoterpenes inhibit protein isoprenylation. The cell uses this process to help a protein, in this case the ras protein involved in cell growth, find its proper location within the cell. If ras is not in the right place, it becomes overactive and can spur cancerous cell growth.

Where Do They Come From? Most plant matter contains a wide variety of monoterpenes. Rich sources include: herbs, spices, wine, essential oils, eggs, olive & palm oil, rice bran oil, barley oil, and dairy products.

Laboratory animal studies demonstrate that these two monoterpenes inhibit the formation of chemically induced breast, colon, liver, skin and pancreatic tumors. For example, animals fed a diet containing 5 percent orange peel oil had a significantly reduced risk of developing mammary tumors when treated with the chemical tumor inducer DMBA. Similarly, animals fed a 5-percent limonene diet had less chance of mammary tumor growth. Researchers noticed that in this experiment rat tumors also regressed, suggesting limonene may treat existing cancer as well as prevent it.

New drugs typically undergo three phases of clinical tests, each more rigorous than the previous: Phase I trials establish a toxic human dose, phase II trials determine a therapeutic dose and how it is metabolized, and phase III trials determine drug effectiveness. Extensive animal studies are done before phase I trials begin.

Phase I trials have so far shown that limonene is well tolerated by cancer patients and has little toxicity. Phase II trials, to test how well limonene actually works to reduce cancer, are under way at several institutions including the National Cancer Institute (NCI) in Bethesda, Md.

In other research, perillyl alcohol, a related compound, was found to be five times as active as limonene in regressing tumors. A diet of 2.5 percent perillyl alcohol caused 75 percent of chemically induced rat mammary tumors to regress. Perillyl alcohol is now being tested in NCI-sponsored phase I clinical trials as a treatment for advanced breast, ovarian and prostatic cancers at the University of Wisconsin, Madison. Researchers speculate that perillyl alcohol may also be effective against pancreatic cancer, which is extremely difficult to treat.

The amount of monoterpenes needed to prevent cancer in humans is not established. Toxicity studies are incomplete, but the high doses required for chemotherapy may cause kidney damage and gastrointestinal problems. Both orange and lavender essential oils are safe to ingest; in fact, orange oil is a common food additive used for flavoring.

Few drugs have been developed that effectively treat cancer, so NCI is constantly searching for potential drug candidates. Many of these candidates, like limonene and perillyl alcohol, are natural products from herbs. For now though, these two concentrated substances remain in the realm of the laboratory, the doses being used in clinical trials are intended for treating cancer and must be monitored by a physician.

Cindy L.A. Jones, Ph.D., is a Denver writer, consultant and educator who specializes in biochemistry and molecular biology.

References

1. Elson CE, Yu SG. The chemoprevention of cancer by mevalonate-derived constituents of fruits and vegetables. J Nutr 1994;124:607-14.

2. Gould MN. Cancer chemoprevention and therapy by monoterpenes. Environ Health Perspect 1997;105:S977-9.

3. Mills JJ, et al. Induction of apoptosis in liver tumors by the monoterpene perillyl alcohol. Cancer Res 1995; 55:979-83.

4. Hohl RJ. Monoterpenes as regulators of malignant cell proliferation. In: American Institute for Cancer Research. Dietary Phytochemicals in Cancer Prevention and Treatment. New York: Plenum Press;1996.

5. Elson CE. Suppression of mevalonate pathway activities by dietary isoprenoids: protective roles in cancer and cardiovascular disease. J Nutr 1995;125:1666S-72S.

6. [Anonymous]. Clinical Development Plan: l-Perillyl Alcohol, J Cellular Biochem 1996;26S:137-48.

7. Crowell PL, et al. Antitumor effects of limonene and perillyl alcohol against pancreatic and breast cancer. In: American Institute for Cancer Research. Dietary Phytochemicals in Cancer Prevention and Treatment. New York: Plenum Press;1996.

8. Vigushin DM, et al. Phase I and pharmacokinetic study of d-limonene in patients with advanced cancer. Cancer Research Campaign Phase I/II Clinical Trials Committee. Cancer Chemother & Pharmacol 1998;42:111-17.

9. Ziegler J. Raloxifen, retinoids and lavender: "me too" tamoxifen alternatives under study. J Natl Canc Inst 1996;88:1100-1.

10. Stark MJ, et al. Chemotherapy of pancreatic cancer with the monoterpene perillyl alcohol. Cancer Letters 1995; 96:15-21.

Orange essential oil has a rich, fruity scent with aromatic properties that are both calming and uplifting. I personally wear Orange oil every day simply because I love the way the scent makes me feel.

However, Orange oil is not just a pretty face - so to speak - it is rich in the powerful antioxidant d-limonene boasting and ORAC rating of 18,898 (TE/L). TE/L is expressed as micromole Trolox equivalent per liter. This means that with all of the oxidizing forces at work against our cells, we want Orange essential oil in our body. Young Living Orange Essential Oil is GRAS (generally regarded as safe) for consumption and ingesting is one of the recommended ways of using the oil.

Directions: Dietary Supplement: Put 2 drops in a capsule. Take three times daily or as needed.Topical: Dilute 1 drop with 1 drop of V-6™ or olive oil. Then apply to desired area as needed. Aromatic: Diffuse up to 1 hour three times daily.

Caution: Keep out of reach of children. If pregnant, nursing, taking medication, or have a medical condition, consult a healthcare practioner prior to use. Avoid direct sunlight or UV rays for up to 12 hours after applying product - the citrus oils can cause skin sensitivity in sunlight when applied to the skin. Also, beware adulterated, non-tested or "bargin" oils as they can have other compounds or lower levels of the desired constituents.

Here at School of Essential Oils we only use, recommend and distribute Young Living Essential Oils. Click here to learn about purchasing Young Living Essential Oils. Signing up to purchase Young Living Essential Oils through the School of Essential Oils supports the SOEO blog and places you in an educational and support network to help you get the most out of your essential oils.

If you are not a member of School of Essential Oils, sign up at the top right for instant access to the 5 Free Core Classes and more!

Books for your library of knowledge!

Essential Oils Desk Reference 5th Edition

The number one guide most comprehensive and reliable guide to working with therapeutic grade essential oils. This one is kinda pricey but it's worth it!

Essential Oils Integrative Medical Guide: Building Immunity, Increasing Longevity, and Enhancing Mental Performance With Therapeutic-Grade Essential Oils

A wonderful resource for educating yourself on the way essential oils work and how to use them. Also offers a reference by ailment and oil.

The Complete Book of Essential Oils and Aromatherapy: Over 600 Natural, Non-Toxic and Fragrant Recipes to Create Health - Beauty - a Safe Home Environment

Another good comprehensive guide that allows you to search for oil by ailment!

500 Formulas For Aromatherapy: Mixing Essential Oils for Every Use

If you are looking for "recipes" and blending ideas, this is the book for you! Very easy to use, recommended for beginners.

Holistic Aromatherapy for Animals: A Comprehensive Guide to the Use of Essential Oils & Hydrosols with Animals

A great book for using essential oils on pets. Animals are very sensitive to scents. Read this book before doing aromatherapy on your pet.

Got any other recommendations? Leave them in the comments below!

The easiest and simplest way of dispersing essential oils into the air is to use an aromatic diffuser. A cold air diffuser uses room-temperature air to blow the oil up against a nebulizer. This breaks the oils up into a micro-fine mist that is then dispersed into the air without heating the oils which can change or damage their chemical structure and render them less effective.

The cold diffused oils, with their oxygenating molecules, will remain suspended in the air for several hours. The anti-viral, anti-bacterial, and antiseptic properties of the oils kill airborne and surface bacteria and can help reduce fungus and mold. Essential oils, when diffused, have also been found to reduce the amount of airborne chemicals and metallics as well as help to create greater spiritual, physical, and emotional harmony when inhaled.

Recommended Diffusing Time

While a diffusers can run continuously until it is out of oil, the greatest therapeutic benefit is received by diffusing oils for only 10 minutes out of an hour so that the olfactory system has time to recover before receiving more oils. This also helps to conserve your oils. A simple way to do this is to use a programmable timer that can automatically turn on your diffuser each hour for 10 minutes.

Oils for Air Purification

Diffusing essential oils in the home or work place is one of the best ways to purify our environment. The anti-viral, anti-bacterial, and antiseptic properties of the oils, along with the negative ions and oxygenating molecules that are released when essential oils are diffused, all help to reduce chemicals, bacteria, and metallics in the air.

Cinnamon bark, mountain savory, oregano, and Theives (a blend by Young Living Essential Oils), were all tested by Weber State University and were shown to kill 99.96% of the airborne bacteria present when diffused into the atmosphere.

The information above is from the Reference Guide for Essential Oils by Connie & Alan Higley, and from KID-Radio broadcast, March 5, 1996 with Lance Richardson & Gary Young

Negative Ions

Negative ions are produced naturally by wind and rain. They help stimulate the parasympathetic nervous system which controls rest, relaxation, digestion, and sleep. If you live in a stressful environment, or an environment full of electronic equipment (which produce positive ions), the diffusion of negatively ionizing oils can help balance the ions in the air and produce a more stress free environment.

Oils that ionize negatively when diffused include: bergamot, cedarwood, citronella, eucalyptus (citriodora), grapefruit, lavandin, lavender, lemon, lemongrass, mandarin, orange, patchouly, & sandalwood.

Positive Ions

Positive ions are produced by electronic equipment and are typically found in man-made environments. They help stimulate the sympathetic nervous system, necessary for recovering, strengthening, and energizing. If you live in an environment with an over-abundance of negative ions, such as in the country or by the ocean, you may benefit greatly by diffusing positively ionizing oils.

Oils that ionize positively when diffused into the air include: clove, cypress, eucalyptus, frankincense, helichrysum, juniper, marjoram, melaleuca (quinquenervia), pine, ravensara, rosemary, thyme, & ylang ylang.

Oils for the Season: Fall/Winter

Fall and winter connote an earthy, heavy scent, rich with the traditions and memories of the holidays.

Oils that work well during this time include: cinnamon bark, pine, cedar, cedarwood, fir, frankincense, juniper, myrrh, orange, sandalwood, vetiver, nutmeg, oregano, spruce, tangerine, & thyme.

Oils for the Season: Spring/Summer

Spring and summer connote a light, airy scent, full of life, energy, and possibly a hint of romance!

Oils that work well during this time include: cardamom, citronella, coriander, eucalyptus, geranium, ginger, grapefruit, jasmine, lemon, peppermint, rose, spearmint, & ylang ylang.

Mix together:

• Spruce - 50 drops
• Lavender - 25 drops
• Eucalyptus - 25 drops
• Cedarwood - 20 drops

Add blend to diffuser and diffuse for a forest fresh scent!

Diffusing information adapted from the Marketing Scents Library of Essential Oil Knowledge, ©2009 . Forest Air Freshening Blend Recipe adapted from 500 Formulas for Aromatherapy by Carol & David Schiller, ©1994

Protect yourself and make a charitable donation to the relief efforts in Japan. $5 donated for every bottle sold

From March 23 through April 22, with every purchase of Longevity Softgels™, Young Living will donate $5 to a charitable organization that is actively helping the relief efforts in Japan.

$2,560 raised to date! Protect yourself and keep the donations coming!

Longevity Softgels are a potent, proprietary blend of fat-soluble antioxidants. Longevity blend should be taken daily to strengthen the body's systems and help prevent the damaging effects of aging, diet, and the environment. Enriched with the pure essential oils thyme, orange, and now frankincense, Longevity protects DHA levels, a nutrient that supports brain function and cardiovascular health, promotes healthy cell regeneration, and supports liver and immune function. Longevity also contains clove oil, nature's strongest antioxidant, for ultra antioxidant support.

Sign up as a Young Living customer or independent distributor to order Longevity Softgels.

Essential oils are considered by many cultures to be life-enhancing gifts from the plant kingdom, revered for centuries for their restorative properties to body, mind, and spirit. In today's modern economy, with lax regulations on natural products, it can be very difficult to identify the truly powerful oils from the others. In fact, most oils sold at health food stores do not actually comply with the concentration and purity standards that have been determined to be therapeutic grade. All Young Living essential oils are tested to ISO standards to be Therapeutic Grade A Essential Oils.

Essential Oil Basics
Essential oils are the highly concentrated, volatile, aromatic essences of plants. Essential oils contain hundreds of organic constituents, including hormones, vitamins and other natural elements that work on many levels. They are 75 to 100 times more concentrated than the oils in dried herbs.

All the countries of the world provide essential oils, making aromatherapy a truly global therapy, and information on the specific properties of each essential oil can be found in any one of the hundreds of books published worldwide on the topic.

Understanding the Grades of Oils

There are significant differences between synthetic fragrance oils and pure essential oils. All Young Living Essential Oils are pure. There are 4 grades of essential oils.

• Grade A oils are pure therapeutic quality and are usually made from organically grown plants, and are distilled at the proper temperatures.
• Grade B oils are food grade, they may contain synthetics, pesticides, fertilizers, extenders, or carrier oils.
• Grade C are perfume grade and may contain the same type of adulterating chemicals as food grade oils. They usually contain solvents which are used to gain a higher yield of oil per harvest. Solvents are not healthy.
• Floral Water is a byproduct of the distillation process, a very high quality, IF it comes from a Grade A distillation process. Accordingly, it is a low quality if it comes from poor quality raw materials and/or poor distillations processes.

Synthetic fragrance oils may duplicate the smell of the pure botanical, but the complex chemical components of each essential oil created in nature determine its true benefits. In other words, synthetic fragrance oils will not have the medicinal properties; they are NOT suitable for aromatherapy.

Gems of Nature

Pure essential oils, like precious jewelry or fine wine, are gems of nature -- the quintessential life force of aromatic plants, sometimes called the "soul" of the plant. People who truly appreciate the qualities of pure essential oils consider each drop a precious jewel to be savored, enjoyed and protected.

Essential oils are absorbed into the fluid surrounding the cells beneath the skin's surface for a variety of effects including deep cleansing, nourishing, rejuvenating and balancing. Essential oils also diffuse into the air to provide olfactory benefits.

Finding the Purest Oils

We've identified Young Living Essential Oils as an exceptional and reliable source of the highest quality oils and essential oils based products. What's more, Young Living's business model and practices offer the unique benefits of supporting their essential oil users both financially and physically as well as contributing to their communities and the environment.

Read and watch a video to learn more about Young Living or

For the past 12 years I have been using pure, therapeutic grade essential oils for all of my physical, mental and household remedies. There is only one company that I trust to provide me with the purest and most potent organic essential oils: Young Living Essential Oils.

I'm also very passionate about sustainability and social responsibility, so it matters most to me that Young Living is a company that is run wholly in accordance with those values. This is kind of amazing because Young Living is a huge multi-national company that supplies thousands and thousands of people around the world with fine natural products including vitamins, household products, personal care, and of course, essential oils.

Young Living owns hundreds of acres of organic farmland in the United States, France and South America and is still owned and operated by Gary Young, who is committed to enriching the communities and lives of those he does business with.

But aside from the incredible quality standards and beyond average corporate humanity, perhaps the biggest reason that I never buy oils anywhere else is that Young Living brings each an every customer into their community and keeps them engaged as partners in their own personal wellness.

As a Young Living wholesale or retail customer, you are supported in making healthy life changing choices with education and opportunity. Young Living even pays generous commissions and bonuses to their wholesale members based on the purchases made by their referrals. They sponsor community events, educational seminars, and provide you with learning materials and direct support from other natural health nuts in your area.

About Young Living Essential Oils

In 1989, from the humblest of beginnings, Young Living started what would become the world's leading essential oil company on a one-quarter acre farm in Washington. On this small plot of ground, Gary Young carefully cultivated lavender and other various herbs. Toward the end of the season, Gary built his first distiller by welding two pressure cookers together. It was placed on the kitchen countertop, and the water for the cooler came from the kitchen sink. This yielded Young Living Essential Oils' first tiny batch of therapeutic-grade essential oils.

By 2009, the company had grown from that small, one-quarter acre in Washington State to flourishing customer communities all over the planet - including the United States, Australia, Japan, Canada, South America, Great Britain, and Europe. Amazingly, new essential oils are being discovered in exotic locales, and their health-promoting properties are as promising - or even more so- than some of the widely known classic oils. An excellent example of this is a group of several oils that come from the Amazonia territories of Ecuador and Brazil.

Here is a video that offers new essential oil enthusiasts a glimpse into the unique and wonderful world of Young Living. Meet Gary Young and a number of Young Living members who's lives have been changed by their relationship with this company and their products.

If you have any questions about Young Living or essential oils in general, please do not hesitate to contact me directly. If you are interested in becoming a member...

If you suffer from headaches or nausea, you will not want to go anywhere without peppermint essential oil. Peppermint and its main compound, menthol, is one of the most studied fragrances today. Even enology researchers studying the science of wine making have used peppermint as a model for understanding how chemistry affects flavor and smell.

"Peppermint (Mentha piperita) has a strong, clean, fresh, minty aroma. One of the oldest and most highly regarded herbs for soothing digestion, it may also restore digestive efficiency.* Jean Valnet MD studied peppermint's supportive effect on the liver and respiratory systems. Other scientists have also researched peppermint's role in improving taste and smell when inhaled. Dr. William N. Dember of the University of Cincinnati studied peppermint's ability to improve concentration and mental sharpness. Alan Hirsch MD studied peppermint's ability to directly affect the brain's satiety center, which triggers a sensation of fullness after meals."

As a pure, unadulterated, therapeutic grade oil, peppermint is a powerful cooling agent and pain reliever. If you had to pick only two oils to keep with you at all times, pick lavender and peppermint essential oil.

Primary Benefits of Peppermint Essential Oil*

• Aids digestion
• Relieves Pain
• Increases mental clarity and alertness
• Clears sinuses
• Curbs appetite
• Relieves nausea
• Cools the skin
• Freshens breath
• Increases awakeness
• Improves memory retention

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

History of Peppermint Oil

Peppermint is said to have gotten her name from Greek mythology wherein Hades, the king of the underworld, fell in love with a lovely young water nymph named Menthe. Out of jealousy, Hades' wife, Persephone transformed her into a weedy plant in hopes that she would be frequently trod upon. But Hades, out of pity, gave her a sweet and everlasting smell, and so Peppermint was born.

The Ancient Egyptians and Ancient Romans both used the plant for medicinal purposes. In fact, dried peppermint was found in a pyramid that was carbon dated to 1,000 BC.

In recent history, peppermint began to be cultivated in the United States in the late 1700's in Massachusetts. Though it is indigenous to Europe, peppermint is cultivated and grows freely in most parts of the country. For wonderful history and archival footage of the American mint industry, an amazing 4-part documentary has been created and titled American Mint. You can order it from the American Mint website.

Chemistry of Peppermint

Peppermint's scientific name is Mentha Piperita. It is a member of the Lamiaceae family. First discovered in London, peppermint is now known to have come from a hybrid of watermint and spearmint. The key constituents are Menthol (34-44%), Menthone (12-20%), Menthofurane (4-9%) and Menthyl Acetate (4-10%). Peppermint essential oil has an approximate ORAC value of 373,455 (TE/L).

Peppermint essential oil's primary constituent, menthol, is one of the many plant chemical compounds that is commonly synthesized. It is used as a local anesthetic and a counter irritant.

Uses for Peppermint Essential Oil

Peppermint is anticarcinogenic, supports digestion, expels worms, is a decongestant, is anti-infectious, antibacterial, antifungal, mucolytic, and a stimulant. It is a pain reliever, an expectorant, and anti-inflammatory for the intestinal and urinary tracts. It can heighten the sense of taste by stimulating the trigeminal nerve.

In an Italian study conducted in 2007, 75% of subjects who took peppermint internally for 4 weeks experienced significant relief from irritable bowl syndrome (IBS) symptoms, as compared to 38% who were taking a placebo. An Iranian study conducted in 2010 showed similar results.

To use, inhale or apply on location. For migraine and regular headaches rub 2-3 drops into the temples, forehead and/or back of neck taking care to avoid your eyes. For headache, nausea, congestion or tiredness, inhale by rubbing the oil in your hands and cupping your hands over your nose.

Be very careful with peppermint essential oil as it is very strong and will burn skin in sensitive areas! You can dilute with a vegetable oil, but be sure to avoid the eyes and any sensitive areas.

Usage Tips

• Add a drop of peppermint essential oil to herbal tea to help aid normal digestion.
• Massage several drops of peppermint essential oil on the abdomen, place a drop on wrists, or inhale to soothe the minor stomach discomfort associated with travel.
• Rub one drop of peppermint essential oil on the temples, forehead, over the sinuses (careful to avoid contact with your eyes), and on the back of the neck to relieve head pressure.
• Place 2 drops of peppermint essential oil on the tongue and rub another drop of oil under the nose to help improve concentration and alertness.
• Apply peppermint essential oil to the back of the neck and shoulders throughout the day to keep energy up.
• Inhale peppermint essential oil, apply topically to your temples or neck, or put a drop on your tongue or in water to jump-start your morning routine.
• Diffuse or inhale peppermint essential oil mid-morning to curb the desire to snack.
• Inhale peppermint essential oil or rub a drop on to your abdomen to soothe minor stomach discomfort.

These usage tips come directly from users of Young Living therapeutic grade peppermint oil. They are not intended to diagnose, treat, or prevent any illness or condition. We do hope you find them as useful as their authors did. Do you have a peppermint experience to share? Please leave it in the comments below for us all to enjoy!

Get Started Using Peppermint Essential Oil

The best way to harness the benefits of peppermint is to use a pure therapeutic grade peppermint essential oil. When sourcing peppermint essential oil, be careful to avoid adulterated, diluted or synthetic oils. The majority of commercially available “essential oils” are either partial synthetic reproductions or true essential oils cut with solvents and extenders. You can safeguard against these adulterated oils by seeking out oils that adhere to ANFOR/ISO therapeutic grade essential oil standards. These standards call out specific ratios and concentrations of active ingredients required, which guarantees the purity and potency of your oils.

At School of Essential Oils we only use and recommend Young Living therapeutic grade essential oils which are farmed organically and carefully produced to the strictest quality standards. Click here to find out how to order top-quality therapeutic grade essential oils directly from Young Living at either the wholesale or retail price.

About School of Essential Oils

At School of Essential Oils, we are dedicated to promoting well-being and a natural lifestyle through online education and providing access to quality therapeutic grade essential oils. We produce a free 5-part online course which offers an introduction to essential oils, the chemistry behind essential oils, history and resources. Each lesson is less than 10 minutes long, presented as an engaging and easy to read article with photos and video.

Notes and Sources:

• Young, D. Gary. Essential Oils Integrative Medical Guide. Essential Science Publishing. November 2006.
• Merat S, Khalili S, Mostajabi P, Ghorbani A, Ansari R, Malekzadeh R. (Epub 2009 Jun 9).  "The Effect of Enteric-Coated, Delayed-Release Peppermint Oil on Irritable Bowel Syndrome". Digestive Disease Research Center, Shariati Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, N Kargar St, 14117 Tehran, Iran. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19507027g. Retrieved 24 January 2011.
• Cappello G, Spezzaferro M, Grossi L, Manzoli L, Marzio L. (Epub 2007 Apr 8). "Peppermint oil (Mintoil) in the treatment of irritable bowel syndrome: a prospective double blind placebo-controlled randomized trial." Section of Digestive Sciences, Department of Medicine, G d'Annunzio University, Chieti-Pescara, Italy. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17420159. Retrieved 24 January 2011.
• "Young Living Product Information Sheet." Young Living Essential Oils. 2008.

Are essential oils safe for pets? What essential oils are best for my animals and how do I use them?

As an animal lover and pet owner, I've never wanted to use chemical based shampoos or medications on my 4-legged friends. It just seemed natural to apply the same standards to them as I do to myself.

Young Living Essential Oils, as a company, has a very animal friendly culture. Founder Gary Young owns and rides horses and frequently brings one to events to demonstrate the "Raindrop Technique" for applying oils along the spine. Horses have very long spines!

At the suggestion of a friend with a new puppy, I combed through my resources on essential oils aromatherapy for pets and my own practices to find the best and safest uses for essential oils on pets. Here is what I found.

Calming:

When traveling or home alone some pets experience anxiety. Dogs in particular tend to become stressed if left alone while the people are at work. Lavender essential oil has long been used for it's calming effects on people and is gentle enough to be used on pets. Remember, their noses are much more sensitive than ours so try to avoid applying essential oils directly to your pet. A better solution is to place the oils on a cotton ball near or in your pet's bed or diffuse a bit into the air, making sure to turn your diffuser off before you leave.

Cleaning:

Whether you have kittens, horses or ostriches, animal areas and supplies require lots of cleaning. I only use Thieves cleaner on my pets' areas for safe and effective disinfecting and cleaning. For outdoor water dishes/buckets (dog, horse, chicken) I finish by adding a drop of Thieves Oil to the water to prevent gunk from growing. For baths, Animal Scents Shampoo from Young Living is free of chemicals and skin irritants and contains therapeutic grade essential oils for a healthy, shiny, odor free coat.

Minor First Aid:

Prevent infection, soothe pain and help heal cuts, scrapes, or abrasions on your pet with the powers of melaleuca, rosewood, balsam fir and more. My favorite ointment for all my pets is the Animal Scents Ointment from Young Living Essential Oils. It's thick, moisturizing and keeps the oils right on site to soothe my pet's scrapes. I also apply it as hoof ointment to my horses feet to prevent bacterial infection and moisturize the hooves. Be careful not to put any oils or ointments directly in an open wound.

Tips and Things to Avoid:

Animals have a much keener sense of smell than people and may be upset by a very strong scent. An animal healer I once saw at a clinic recommended placing a drop of essential oil in your hands, rubbing them together and then offering them out for your pet. They will most likely be curious by the smell and investigate. Oils that solicited a strong negative reaction were not used again.

Undiluted therapeutic grade essential oils are very powerful. Avoid getting oils near your pet's eyes or applying them full strength to your pet's body. Don't feed oils to your pet unless the oil is rated as GRAS (generally regarded as safe) for consumption and be sure you adjust portions based on body weight. Air on the conservative side.

These are just a few uses for essential oils on pets and are a great way to bring your pet into your natural lifestyle. Have fun playing with oils and your pet and please write me below if you have any questions or suggestions!

The oils and essential oil based products we talked about here were:

• Thieves Essential Oil Blend and Thieves Household Cleaner
• Animal Scents Shampoo and Ointment
• Lavender (Lavendula Angustifolia) Essential Oil
• Tea Tree (Melaleuca Alternifolia) Essential Oil

We only use and recommend Young Living's therapeutic grade essential oils. To purchased oils, register as a customer (for retail pricing) or Independent Distributor (for wholesale pricing). To register you will need to enter the School of Essential Oils ID 1183721 as your sponsor and enroller ID. More information on buying essential oils here!

P.S. Couldn't resist putting up a few pictures of my pets (clicking makes them bigger)! Tell me about your pets!

Traditionally used to treat burns, lavender is one of history’s most celebrated and versatile essential oils. Today lavender is used to dress wounds, induce sleep, ease depression, and reduce stress. Around the world, lavender is drunken as tea, worn as perfume, and distilled into therapeutic grade essential oils. Lavender oil is one of the safest essential oils and can be used in full strength on the skin. The benefits of lavender essential oil are limitless. As we continue to study lavender, additional usage and efficacy is identified.

Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) has a fresh, sweet, floral, herbaceous aroma that is soothing and refreshing. Because it is the most versatile of all essential oils, no home should be without it. Lavender is an adaptogen, and therefore can assist the body when adapting to stress or imbalances. It is a great aid for relaxing and winding down before bedtime, yet has balancing properties that can also boost stamina and energy. Therapeutic-grade lavender essential oil is highly regarded for skin and beauty. It may be used to soothe and cleanse common cuts, bruises, and skin irritations.

Primary Benefits of Lavender Essential Oil

• Balances and normalizes body functions*
• Promotes tissue regeneration*
• Speeds up wound healing*
• Cleanses cuts, bruises and, skin irritations*
• Soothes and relaxes the mind and body
• Eases bodily aches and pains

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

Lavender in History

In ancient Greece, Pedanius Dioscorides, a physician, pharmacologist, and botanist, extolled the medicinal qualities of lavender. Greeks also used lavender as a perfume.

The Romans used lavender in their baths for washing, for its healing and antiseptic qualities, and to deter insects. The Egyptians used lavender as an ingredient in incense and perfume. Queen Elizabeth I drank lavender tea to treat her frequent migraines.

Following a laboratory explosion that severely burned his arm, a French scientist named Rene Gattefosse was the first modern scientist to document lavender’s ability to promote tissue regeneration.

Chemistry of Lavender

Lavender's scientific name is Lavandula Angustifolia. It is a member of the Lamiaceae, or mint, family. There are over 28 species in the Lavandula genus. As an anti-oxidant, lavender has an approximate ORAC of 3,669 (TE/L). TE/L is expressed as micromole Trolox equivalent per liter.

Some of the most influential chemical compounds present in lavender essential oil are linalool (44.54%), Geraniol (11.02%), and Lavandul Acetate (10.78%). Linalool, which is found in high concentrations in lavender, is a common natural chemical compound which is responsible for the pleasant floral and herbaceous scents of lavender. Over 2oo plants produce linalool, including members of the mint family, laurels, birches and citrus.

Linalool Chemical Structure

Linalool can be found in the majority of scented cosmetics and household products. It's used as a pest and mosquito repellent and was also found in Japan to reduce stress levels of lab animals. "In a study published in The Journal of Agriculture and Food Chemistry ^[3] , they exposed the animals to stressful conditions and found that those inhaling linalool saw their stress-elevated levels of neutrophils and lymphocytes fall to near-normal levels compared with the controls. Inhaling linalool also reduced the activity of more than 100 genes that 'go into overdrive' in stressful situations."

Uses for Lavender Essential Oil

Lavender is antiseptic, analgesic, anti-tumoral, anti-convulsant, anti-inflammatory, and sedative. It is beneficial for cleansing and healing wounds, treating burns, and for use in skin care. Lavender is gentle to the skin and helps to prevent the buildup of excess sebum, a skin oil that contributes to acne. It's been clinically evaluated for its relaxing effects and has been used to reduce stress, promote a restful sleep and sooth tension headaches.

Diffuse or inhale directly for aromatherapy. Apply topically to skin irritations, cuts, or wherever desired. Add to food or rice milk as a dietary supplement.

Usage Tips

• Inhale lavender essential oil to soothe and relax the body and mind.
• Make an herbal tea by mixing 2 drops of lavender essential oil with 1 teaspoon of blue agave syrup and adding to warm water.
• Add 4–5 drops of lavender essential oil to a bath gel base and use in warm bath for relaxation.
• Drop 1–2 drops of lavender essential oil on your pillow to aid in a restful night of sleep.
• Massage several drops of lavender essential oil on feet to promote relaxation.
• Soothe minor burns by applying 2–3 drops of lavender essential oil to the affected area.
• Rub lavender essential oil on dry or chapped skin to moisturize the affected area.
• Add a few drops of lavender essential oil to a cotton ball and place it in closets and drawers to scent linens and repel moths and insects.
• You may be able to minimize the appearance of scar tissue by massaging lavender essential oil on or around affected areas.
• Place a few drops of lavender essential oil on a wet cloth or dryer sheet to deodorize and freshen your laundry.
• Diffuse lavender essential oil to minimize seasonal discomforts.
• Rub a few drops of lavender essential oil onto your hand and spread over you or your child’s pillow to help him/her sleep.
• Diffuse lavender essential oil before leaving the house or before guests arrive to calm anxious pets.
• Diffuse or inhale lavender essential oil to calm your mind, body, and spirit after a hard day’s work.
• University researchers in Japan found that diffusing certain aromas in an office environment dramatically improved mental accuracy and concentration. Diffused lavender resulted in 20 percent fewer errors (diffused lemon was 54 percent and jasmine was 33 percent fewer errors. (EODR, published January 2009)
• Immediately put 2-3 drops of Lavender oil directly on minor burns, continue to apply with lotion daily until healed
• Drop Lavender on a cut to soothe it
• Rub Lavender oil on dry or chapped to bring relief
• Rub a drop of Lavender oil on chapped or sunburned lips to help discomfort.
• Rub 2 – 4 drops of Lavender oil over the armpit area to act as a natural deodorant
• Briskly rub a drop of Lavender oil between your palms and inhale deeply to help in alleviating the discomfort of airborne pollen and/or dust
• Use several drops of Lavender oil on the scalp to help with flaking
• Place a few drops of Lavender oil on a wet cloth and toss into the dryer to deodorize and freshen your laundry
• Diffusing Lavender oil supports the body’s natural defenses against air borne sensitivities to the skin and immune system
• Spritz several drops of Lavender oil mixed with distilled water on a sunburn helps soothe it (also try Young Living's Lavaderm spray)

Young Living's purity allows us to be able to take the oils internally which is something I would never suggest doing with other brands on the market. Here's a fun recipe for lavender lemonade

Ingredients:
7 lemons, juiced
2 limes, juiced
14 cups water
1 ½ cups Blue Agave
1 drop lavender essential oil

Instructions:
Mix all ingredients together and chill. Add more water or Blue Agave, depending on the size and tartness of the fruit.

These usage tips come directly from users of Young Living therapeutic grade lavender oil. They are not intended to diagnose, treat, or prevent any illness or condition. We do hope you find them as useful as their authors did. Do you have a lavender experience to share? Please leave it in the comments below for us all to enjoy!

Get Started Using Lavender Essential Oil

Lavender is often called "the universal oil" because of its many varied uses. The best way to harness the benefits of lavender is to use a pure therapeutic grade lavender essential oil. When sourcing lavender essential oil, be careful to avoid adulterated, diluted or synthetic oils. The majority of commercially available “essential oils” are either partial synthetic reproductions or true essential oils cut with solvents and extenders. You can safeguard against these adulterated oils by seeking out oils that adhere to ANFOR/ISO therapeutic grade essential oil standards. These standards call out specific ratios and concentrations of active ingredients required, which guarantees the purity and potency of your oils.

At School of Essential Oils we only use and recommend Young Living therapeutic grade essential oils which are farmed organically and carefully produced to the strictest quality standards. Click here to find out how to order top-quality therapeutic grade essential oils directly from Young Living at either the wholesale or retail price.

About School of Essential Oils

At School of Essential Oils, we are dedicated to promoting well-being and a natural lifestyle through online education and providing access to quality therapeutic grade essential oils. We produce a free 5-part online course which offers an introduction to essential oils, the chemistry behind essential oils, history and resources. Each lesson is less than 10 minutes long, presented as an engaging and easy to read article with photos and video.

Notes and Sources:

• Young, D. Gary. Essential Oils Integrative Medical Guide. Essential Science Publishing. November 2006.
• Nakamura, Akio et al.; Fujiwara, S; Matsumoto, I; Abe, K (20 May 2009). "Stress Repression in Restrained Rats by (R)-(−)-Linalool Inhalation and Gene Expression Profiling of Their Whole Blood Cells". The Journal of Agriculture and Food Chemistry (American Chemical Society) 57 (12): 5480–5485. doi:10.1021/jf900420g. PMID 19456160. http://pubs.acs.org/doi/abs/10.1021/jf900420g. Retrieved 22 January 2010.
• Casabianca H, Graff JB, Faugier V, Fleig F, Grenier C (1997) Enantiomeric distribution studies of linalool and linalyl acetate. A powerful tool for authenticity control of essential oils. HRC J High Res Chrom 21:107-112
• "Chemical composition of the essential oil of Lavandula angustifolia from Xinjiang, China." Published in Khimiya Prirodnykh Soedinenii, No. 6, p. 652, November-December, 2008. Accessed via SpringerLink, December 2010.
• "Young Living Product Information Sheet." Young Living Essential Oils. 2008.