Essential oils can be a huge part of your everyday routine - from health to cleaning to emotions to skincare. The habit of diffusing can transform your health and your home, but sometimes we just need someone to walk us through the basics so we can make a new change with confidence! Keep reading to learn how you can ditch the toxic chemicals with confidence and breathe in these body and soul nourishing oils!
What’s Wrong with Fragrance?
If you turn over your favorite products, you'll often find the word ‘fragrance' in the ingredients. Many popular candles say “made with natural essential oils,” but sure enough in the ingredients list you’ll find only the word – “fragrance.” But what is fragrance??
Fragrance chemicals are organic compounds that volatilize, or vaporize into the air, which is why we can smell them. They are added to household and personal care products to give them a scent or to mask the odor of other ingredients.
Unfortunately, many of these volatile organic chemicals (VOCs - think the smell of paint or paint thinner) emitted by fragrance products can contribute to poor indoor air quality and are associated with a variety of adverse health effects. They are pretty much the last thing you want in a product you are burning for ambiance and aroma.
But it gets a little bit worse…. Did you know that to protect trade secrets, makers are allowed to withhold fragrance ingredients, so consumers can't rely on labels to know what hazards may lurk inside those festive scented candles (and room sprays.. and wall plugs… and perfumes.. and cosmetics…). This is called the “fragrance loophole” in federal labeling law. Although all other ingredients in your scented household and personal care products must be disclosed on the label by their specific name, this loophole means that ingredients added to provide a pleasant scent, or to mask a bad one, need only be listed under the generic term “fragrance.”
The Environmental Working Group (EWG) reports that, while many popular candles and room sprays contain trace amounts of natural essences, they also typically contain a dozen or more potentially hazardous synthetic chemicals, some of which are derived from petroleum.
According to the EWG,
“Exposure to fragrance chemicals can cause headaches; eye, nose, and throat irritation; nausea; forgetfulness; loss of coordination; and other respiratory and/or neurotoxic symptoms. Many fragrance ingredients are respiratory irritants and sensitizers, which can trigger asthma attacks and aggravate sinus conditions.”
Synthetic fragrances used in the making of room sprays, wall plugs, and candles can contain anywhere from 3000-5000 different chemicals, many of which haven't been tested to ensure they're safe for humans. Both synthetic fragrance and dyes are also known to release dangerous VOCs (not all VOCs are bad but many are) such as formaldehyde, petroleum distillates, limonene, alcohol and esters. Each of these chemicals have been known to result in headaches, dizziness, allergy symptoms, asthma attacks, respiratory tract infections and cancer.
THIS is why we are so passionate about ditching conventional products and switching to Young Living's clean, effective and safe options! Young Living NEVER hides undisclosed fragrance in their products - they don't even need to because of the incredible essential oils. All the Young Living products are infused with the highest quality, therapeutic grade essential oils which not only make fragrance unnecessary, they actually improve our health! The original fragrance of the plants that needs no tampering!
One of the things that separates our oils from many others in the industry is actually in this “fragrance” category. Many oil companies will actually ask their suppliers to alter the oils so that their smell is consistent. Their goal is simply for their oils to smell good and smell the same each time. Young Living’s goal is for the oils to maintain the integrity of the unique plant even if the smell varies so we reduce the most benefits. That’s why one bottle of peppermint might smell slightly different than another as the peppermint crop may have grown in slightly different weather conditions or had other plant variables. Isn’t that interesting?
Here’s the good news – you don’t have to sacrifice your love of yummy-smelling things when you ditch fragrance. Essential oils + a diffuser is a whole new world!
Why Do We Diffuse?
Our diffusers are running 24/7 in our homes, supporting our immune systems, respiratory systems, emotions, cleansing the air and making things smell happy and inviting all at the same time. This is hands down one of the easiest health habits you can start!
There are three major ways to use essential oils – aromatically, topically, and internally. Some choose to use only one way, while others choose to use all three. No matter how you are using oils, they are going into your body, so it is crucial to choose only high quality oils that have not been tampered with and have been distilled with your health in mind!
At times we choose the method of diffusing (or inhaling) over topical or ingestion because it is extremely effective for:
- Emotions
- Mental Support & Focus
- Respiratory Support
- Rest & Relaxation
Here is the short, quick version: Breathing our oils has the potential to make us happier, healthier, and more focused. It sends messages to our brain helping us to rest, reset, and recharge. It is an inexpensive and effective way to get a lot of oils into a room full of people. You can play with combinations to find the ones you love and that are the most beneficial to you!
Research shows that cold-air diffusing certain oils may:
- Reduce bacteria, fungus, mold, and unpleasant odors
- Relax the body, relieve tension, and clear the mind
- Help with weight management
- Improve concentration, alertness, and mental clarity
- Stimulate neurotransmitters
- Stimulate secretion of endorphins
Stimulate growth hormone production and receptivity
- Improve the secretion of IgA antibodies that fight candida
- Improve digestive function
- Improve hormonal balance
- Relieve head discomfort
Diffusing is also a perfect way for someone new to oils to start low and slow. While oils are extremely beneficial, they are still new to your body and it may take some time to adjust! That’s okay. Follow your individual signals and go at your own pace. You’ve spent years putting other fragrance in your body and it won’t let all of that go overnight!
Diffusing can release and intensify some emotions as oils are wonderful tools for emotional release and healing. Give yourself some time to feel what it’s bringing up, evaluate it, and release it. Those feelings are there to reveal where we’ve held onto the past and it’s good to put them through a grid of truth, speaking life and love over yourself and others, pouring forgiveness and compassion over the past, and moving forward into the present.
Your body is in a healing and restoration state while you sleep which makes diffusing overnight a highly impactful way to rest better and work on your health at the same time! Easy button!
Overall, no matter how, where, or when you diffuse Young Living oils, you are making a difference in your health – physical and emotional!
When we Diffuse:
We have diffusers running in our homes during the day in the main living spaces – kitchens, living rooms, playrooms or school rooms for kids.
We love to have a small diffuser at work and a USB diffuser in our cars (Peppermint is a great oil for travel)!
We diffuse while our children are working on school projects or homework.
We diffuse in our bathrooms while we shower to let the oils and steam open and support our airways.
We diffuse before bedtime to set the stage for sleep.
We diffuse immune- and respiratory-supporting blends in the winter or when someone is under the weather.
We diffuse emotionally calming and grounding oils to journal, meditate, or help process emotions.
Simplified Scents
If you want an easy button replacement for delicious, comforting candles and wall plugs, we have you covered with the Simplified line.
Each season, Young Living releases a trio of essential oil blends that are festive, fun, and perfect for the season at hand! All you have to do is put your desired drops in your diffuser, add water, and go! These blends are also some of our favorites for seasonal DIYs and recipes that help us to find presence in the season at hand!
Simplified Winter Essential Oil Blends
Candy Cane: Inspired by everyone's favorite holiday candy, this blend's sweet and minty aroma will instantly transform your space into a magical candy-cane wonderland. It features the refreshing scents of Wintergreen, Peppermint and Balsam Copaiba essential oils, each of which has an incredible ability to support our bodies during the winter months.
Winter Spa: The soothing aroma of this Winter Spa blend takes you back to a state of calm while transforming your space into a holiday oasis. Fire up your diffuser while you journal, meditate or take a long, hot shower. This blend will be a favorite for everyone with the soothing scents of Bergamot, Tangerine, Eucalyptus Radiata, Lavender, Ylang Ylang, Orange, and Jasmine.
Pink Champagne: Inspired by a celebratory toast with the ones you love most, this bright blend creates a bubbly environment full of fun and fruity scents. Pink Champagne features the flowery scents of Grapefruit, Camphor, Bitter Orange, Jasmine, Ylang Ylang, and Cistus essential oils.
Simplified Spring Essential Oil Blends
Fresh Linen: This blend of Lemon, Lavender, Cypress, Tea Tree, Bitter Orange, and Cistus evokes the clean, pure scent of freshly laundered linens blowing in the breeze. It's a perfect springtime blend to fill your space with a clean feeling of renewal and fresh starts.
Spring Rain: This soothing blend of Spearmint, Vetiver, Bergamot, Cypress, Patchouli, and Tea Tree captures the essence of a warm spring rain. It reminds us of new starts and clean slates and is a wonderful way to transform your space into a sanctuary.
Tranquil Forest: This earthy blend of Pine, Frankincense, Lemon, Cedarwood, Pepper, and Bitter Orange can create a tranquil, calming atmosphere anywhere you may be. These oils elicit the feeling of walking through a serene evergreen forest just beginning to wake for spring.
Simplified Summer Essential Oil Blends
Tropical Tango: Take a trip to the tropics with the scents of ripe coconuts, juicy oranges, and fresh-picked florals with the Tropical Tango essential oil blend! This bright, blissful blend will have you feeling like you're living on island time no matter where you are. This blend can be incredibly helpful for times of stress to transport your emotions to a tropical paradise - relaxed, calm and grounded.
Orange Creamsicle: Made with real Madagascar vanilla, this creamy, citrusy scent will bring back memories of simpler times and summer days spent outdoors with friends. It's amazing diffused, worn as a perfume or used in summer-y DIYs!
Seaside: Inspired by the salty ocean air and warm summer nights, this blend is a vacation in a bottle. Made with Neroli from the blossoms of the bitter orange tree near the Mediterranean ocean, herbaceous Cypress and Sage, plus citrus notes of Orange and Lime, this blend is definitely one you will want to bask in all summer long!
Simplified Fall Essential Oil Blends
Cozy Cabin: This woodsy blend is inspired by a cozy cabin getaway and creates a comforting, tranquil environment perfect for all things fall. This blend features Hong Kuai essential oil and can transform your space into a snug, intimate escape in the mountains
Gingersnaps: This delectable, spicy-sweet scent brings a homey, cheerful vibe to any space! Made with real Madagascar Vanilla oleoresin and spice oils, this perfect fall blend invokes the feelings of a warm, sweet-smelling bakeshop!
Orange Spiced Cider: This quintessential fall blend has a rich, citrus, cinnamony aroma, just like your favorite chilly-weather drink! Cassia cinnamon brings soft spice, while Orange uplifts your senses and transports you to a festive evening by the fireplace with those you love.
No matter which Simplified Collection you choose, you simply cannot go wrong!!
Oils for Emotional Support
Using oils for emotional support may seem a bit strange if you’re new to the holistic health world, but trust us when we say this is one area you can make huge strides with natural tools!
If you need a little more convincing, take a quick trip over to PubMed. Studies over the last decades found that rosemary may enhance alertness, bergamot can reduce anxiety, and orange and lemon demonstrate emotionally uplifting properties – and more.
What is the connection between essential oils and emotions?
The connection starts in the limbic system, often referred to as the “emotional brain”. This portion of the brain contains the hippocampus, amygdala, hypothalamus and thalamus. It handles emotional response, anger, fear, libido, hormone function, behavior, motivation, long and short-term memory, sleep patterns, reproduction, and... sense of smell. Because of this our emotions can affect SO MANY things in our lives.
When you breathe in an essential oil, molecules enter the limbic system and elicit an emotional response. The exact details of how smells impact emotions are difficult to define BUT we do know that smell absolutely DOES elicit an emotional response.
We can use this knowledge to curate a toolbox of natural solutions for all of our needs! Paring essential oils with intentional habits like journaling, meditation, visualization, emotional processing and even counseling can be hugely impactful on our emotions.
Favorite Oils & Blends for Emotional Support:
Lavender: Lavender is great for the many common fears we are tempted to give into – Fear of Abandonment, Fear of New Things, Fear of Moving Forward, Fear or Criticism. Lavender is calming, relaxing, and can help the nervous system move from a place of fight or flight into calm and grounded.
Stress Away: Stress Away has such a gentle, loving aroma that can be used anytime you need a little extra peace and tranquility. The Copaiba and Cedarwood in this blend are specifically supportive for releasing stress and tension, and the other oils in this blend have very specific ways to support the body physically and emotionally during times of stress!
Purification: Purification is a purifying blend that we love for cleaning, but it also helps with releasing Anger. This blend can help the body move past anger to a deeper emotion on the spectrum. Anger isn't a “bad” emotion. In fact, it is a very protective one! When we (or our kids) want to (or do!) act out or explode, it is because we're protecting ourselves from bigger, scarier feelings. Purification can help us process this and figure out what is lying beneath.
The next time you feel stressed or anxious or overwhelmed, notice where you feel that in your body. Stop for a minute and check in with your physical body. Sometimes you may feel a knot in your stomach, a clenched jaw or tension in your shoulders.
Grab a bottle of essential oil and breathe in deeply, repeating a calm, strong, and positive statement over your situation.
Oils for Respiratory Support
Breathing in oils can do a lot of our emotions, but they can also have a huge impact on our physical health. In fact, essential oils are a PERFECT tool for respiratory support!
Many essential oils have natural properties that would rival conventional options, giving you wonderful tools for supporting your respiratory system daily and during acute needs. Think about the things you find on a grocery shelf – many of them are synthetic versions of a naturally occurring plant!! (We’re looking at you chest rub…)
Crisp oils like Eucalyptus and Peppermint are often found in conventional respiratory products, and we can ditch the middle man to get right to the good stuff! Apply and diffuse these oils anytime you’re wanting to breathe easily.
These oils are some of our mainstays when it comes to all things respiratory. Grab a few and build your support cabinet! For the oils, you can diffuse them alone or in any combination (see below for blend ideas!), make them into a roller, or even use them as dietary supplements as desired.
Favorite Oils & Blends for Respiratory Support:
Lavender: This calming oil is great for helping to soothe and comfort your sinuses, especially when the seasons change and air quality lowers! This is one we love to apply to the chest and to diffuse.
Purification: This purifying blend of Tea Tree, Lemongrass, Rosemary, and more is great for helping soothe the respiratory system during times of congestion. It is wonderful as a simple chest rub, and pairs well in the diffuser with Lavender or Thieves. We also love to add a few drops to the Thieves Chest Rub to soothe and comfort coughs and congestion!
Peppermint: This crisp, refreshing oil is like a deep breath in a bottle! Diffuse it, breathe straight from the bottle, drop it onto the shower floor and let the oils & steam work magic for your respiratory system. This minty oil is cooling and cleansing, helps open and soothe the airways, and feels lovely when applied to warm skin. Peppermint makes a great addition to your DIY chest rub if you need an extra boost or some cooling when skin temperature is elevated.
Thieves: This famous blend is our go to for all things immune and respiratory! While you’ll get the best results applying or ingesting this oil, it is a favorite for diffusing as well. The Thieves blend was formulated based off of research recorded in the archives of the British Museum library about a group of 14th century European perfumers and spice traders who rubbed oils on themselves while they robbed the dead and dying. One sniff (or quick PubMed search!) is all it takes to fall in love with this blend!
Oils for Sleep
Oh the life changing magic of sleep, something all of us need and most of us aren't getting enough of. Something most little ones put off each day while most adults can't wait for! Sleep is a sweet, beautiful, crucial part of our health.
Did you know that 1 in 3 adults is getting less than the required amount of sleep each day? Or that you need to physically be in your bed for one hour longer than the amount of sleep you need? That means for 8 hours of sleep, you need to actually be in your bed for 9 hours.
Our bodies need sleep to function physically, to make decisions, to focus on tasks at hand, to manage our emotions, to handle all the day can throw at us! Think about a toddler who has missed his or her nap. They are grumpy, overwhelmed by small things, and intolerant of mistakes or anything that isn't just right. Our adult brains feel the same way with a lack of sleep!
There are often legitimate reasons we don't sleep well or enough, and when sleep is elusive, it can be frustrating. Luckily, there is a lot we can do to support our bodies and minds in this area!
Favorite Oils & Blends for Sleep:
Lavender: The original sleep herb, Lavender is like a warm, safe embrace from someone you love. Its aroma invites you to release tension, calm your mind, and relax your body. Lavender is a great base for creating your custom diffuser blend when it comes to sleep! Lavender has been used for its calming and relaxing properties for centuries! It has been put into pillows and mattresses, wrapped up with clothes, added to handkerchiefs (hello, diffusers) and used in aromatherapy for sleep and relaxation.
Stress Away: Sniff your stress away with this calming, soothing blend! The oils in Stress Away help the body release tension and inflammation, ground the mind and emotions, and process the anxious thoughts that are keeping you awake. Many people like to layer Stress Away with other sleep and emotional support oils!
Tranquil: This blend of Lavender, Roman Chamomile and Cedarwood creates a calming, serene and peaceful feeling whenever you need it. It’s a wonderful tool for helping the mind and body release the stress and worries of the day and settle into restful sleep.
RutaVaLa: This blend contains Rue, Lavender and Valerian (for more oomph!), and is a heavy hitter when it comes to sweet sleep. It has a reputation for its “interesting” aroma, but it is 100% worth it for the results you get! Apply it to the bottoms of your feet and cover with socks if you don't want to diffuse it!
Grab this Easy-Button Kit to Start Diffusing
This curated collection includes some of the most popular products for replacing harsh chemicals, freshening your home, or enhancing your daily wellness routines. It is a great first step towards a more natural, holistic lifestyle.
And you can start diffusing right away with SO many favorites that make your space smell amazing, support relaxation, respiratory health, immune health, emotions, and more.
The Make a Shift Essential Solutions Kit comes with everything you need to take that next step. Whether you are wanting to make your home smell amazing without using fragrance, shift to a greener, more natural cleaning routine, or find natural solutions for your daily health needs, this kit has something to help you achieve those goals!
Here's what is included:
Thieves essential oil blend, 5 mL
Purification essential oil blend, 5 mL
Lavender essential oil, 5 mL
Peppermint essential oil, 5 mL
Deep Relief Roll-On, 10 mL
Stress Away Roll-On, 10 mL
FreshStart Diffuser
One thing we love about Young Living is the pre-diluted roll-on options – just open and go! So easy to use and so effective. It doesn’t get much better than that! This kit contains two of them – Stress Away and Deep Relief!
Deep Relief Roll-On is one of Young Living's most popular blends and will be your new tension-melting best friend! This pre-diluted blend combines Peppermint, Wintergreen, Copaiba, Clove, and Fir essential oils (plus more!) to provide icy cool relief wherever you need it!
Ditch the store-bought creams and grab your Deep Relief Roll-on! All the icy cool relief with none of the chemicals and SO easy to use.
These favorites are a simple way to make the shift towards a healthier lifestyle!
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