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Tuesday, December 30, 2014

Peppermint Marshmallows



Are you looking for a yummy treat you can make for your New Years Eve party? These homemade marshmallows using peppermint essential oil are so good!

Peppermint Marshmallows

3 packages unflavored gelatin
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
1 cup light corn syrup
1/4 tsp salt
4 drops Spark Naturals peppermint essential oil
2 oz. finely crushed peppermint candies
Confectioner's sugar, for dusting

1- With a sieve, generously dust and 9 x 13 inch baking dish with confectioner's sugar.

2-Combine the gelatin and 1/2 cup of cold water in the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the whisk attachment and allow to sit while you make the syrup.

3-Meanwhile, combine the sugar, corn syrup, salt, and 1/2 cup water in a small saucepan and cook over medium heat until the sugar dissolves. Raise the heat to high and cook until the syrup reaches 240 degrees on a candy thermometer. Remove from the heat.

4- With the mixer on low speed, slowly pour the sugar syrup into the dissolved gelatin. Put the mixer on high speed and whip until the mixture is very thick, about 15 minutes. Add the peppermint essential oil and mix thoroughly.

5- Pour the marshmallow mixture into the pan, smooth the top, and sprinkle the crushed peppermint candies over the top. Then dust with more confectioners' sugar. Allow to stand uncovered overnight until it dries out.

6- Run a knife around the edge of the pan to loosen the marshmallows. Turn the marshmallows onto a board and cut them in squares. Roll them in confectioners' sugar and store in an airtight container.

www.sparknaturals.com

QUICK TIP: Peppermint EO in the shower


Want a morning "wake up call" or even an afternoon boost? Place 3-4 drops of Spark Naturals Peppermint Essential Oil on the side or bottom of your shower, turn on some water water and enjoy!

http://sparknaturals.com/index.php/essentialoils/eo-peppermint.html

Monday, December 29, 2014

All-Natural Tub Scrub


Every once in a while the bathtub needs a good scrub (especially after having lots of visitors and extra use!), and it's nice to have a natural alternative to some of the other harsh, chemical powder scrubs that are out there on the market.

Try this Spark Naturals Tub Scrub to keep your bathtub clean and smelling great!

You will need:
-1c baking soda
-5-10 drops Spark Naturals Grapefruit Essential Oil
-5-10 drops Spark Naturals Melaleuca Essential Oil

Mix baking soda and oils thoroughly in a glass bowl. Quickly wet the tub and sprinkle with the SN Tub Scrub. Scrub with a hard bristle brush or scrubber sponge and rinse.

Unlike with other scrubs, you can breathe deeply while you clean!

www.sparknaturals.com

Friday, December 26, 2014

Peppermint Diffuser Blends



The holiday season can be exhausting, full of late nights and early mornings - especially if you have children! This morning, we are featuring 5 diffuser blends featuring Spark Naturals Peppermint Essential Oil since it is a great way to invigorate and "pep" you up!

1. Minty Jet Lag Diffuser Blend
-1 drop Peppermint essential oil
-2 drops Grapefruit essential oil
-1 drop Lime essential oil
-1 drop Lavender essential oil

2. Breathe Deep Diffuser Blend
-1 drop Peppermint essential oil
-3 drops Respire essential oil
-1 drop White Fir essential oil

3. Alert and Grounded Diffuser Blend
-2 drops Zen Grounding Blend
-2 drops Peppermint essential oil
-2 drops Bergamot essential oil

4. Freshen Up Diffuser Blend
-2 drops Lemon essential oil
-2 drops Peppermint essential oil
-1 drop Melaleuca essential oil
-1 drop Cilantro essential oil
-1 drop White Fir essential oil

5. Allergy Support Diffuser Blend (DIY LLP)
-2 drops Lemon essential oil
-2 drops Lavender essential oil
-2 drop Peppermint essential oil
(or, 6 drops Spark Naturals LLP Allergy Blend)

www.sparknaturals.com

Thursday, December 25, 2014

Christmas Eve Diffuser Blends



Can you believe it's Christmas Eve already? Today we have a collection of blends aimed at helping you enjoy (and survive!) all the festivities, excitement, and "helping Santa" you have in store!

1. Upbeat Diffuser Blend
-2 drops Spark Naturals Frankincense EO
-3 drops Spark Naturals Bergamot EO
-1 drop Spark Naturals Coriander EO

2. Centered and Confident Diffuser Blend
-3 drops Spark Naturals Lavender EO
-2 drops Spark Naturals Bergamot EO
-1 drop Spark Naturals Ylang Ylang EO

3. Re-energizing Diffuser Blend
-3 drops Spark Naturals Eucalyptus EO
-1 drop Spark Naturals Bergamot EO
-2 drops Spark Naturals Rosemary EO

4. Nothing Bothers Me Diffuser Blend
-3 drops Spark Naturals Ylang Ylang EO
-2 drops Spark Naturals Coriander EO
-1 drop Spark Naturals Bergamot EO

5. Focused and Positive Spicy Diffuser Blend
-3 drops Spark Naturals Bergamot EO
-1 drop Spark Naturals Ginger EO
-2 drops Spark Naturals Clove EO
-1 drop Spark Naturals Cinnamon EO

www.sparknaturals.com

Tuesday, December 23, 2014

DIY Pinecone Firestarters


Super simple and AWESOME neighbor/friend holiday gift
DIY Project: Pinecone fire starters

Materials:
1. pinecones
2. twine (candle wick would work too)
3. double broiler (or a saucepan and large glass measuring cup)
4. cooking oil
5. essential oils (of your choice)
6. candle wax, about ¾ cup per pinecone (we used white beeswax which worked well but have read that paraffin is more flammable)
7. various bowls/containers for setting the pinecone in wax

Instructions:
1.boil water in your double boiler, or in your pot and place the glass measuring cup in the boiling water. pour wax beads into the glass measuring cup (each pinecone took about ¾ of a cup) and a few drops of Spark Naturals Essential Oil.
2. wrap the twine around and through the base of the pinecone. stay farther down on the pinecone but don’t be afraid to wrap it many times around. do not cut the twine.
3. find a bowl, jar or cup that the pinecone fits into well. you want the base of the bowl to be close to the sides of the pinecone. we used about 6 various vessels from the kitchen.
4. using a dish cloth, rub oil all around the inside of the bowl (oil well, as it will be much easier to both pull the pinecone out as well as clean when you are done). place the pinecone with the twine “wick” inside the bowl. let the twine sit outside the bowl.
5. when the wax has fully melted, slowly poor the wax into the bowl with the pinecone. if the bowl is not clear it is a bit harder to tell how much you should poor but ours all had about ¾ inch of wax once they were removed. don’t worry too much about this because they dry fast and once you pull them out you can always put them back in (re-oil your bowl!) and add more wax.
6. after about five minutes, pull the pinecone out slowly with a twisting motion.
7. cut the wick. you’re finished!

For full details and descriptions click on this link!
http://www.designsponge.com/2010/03/diy-project-pinecone-fire-starter.html

Christmas Eve Eve Diffuser Blends



Merry Christmas Eve Eve! The day will probably be full of lots of hustle and bustle for MANY of us - put on one of these holiday diffuser blends to help you get in the holiday spirit!

Patti's Place Woodsy Winter Day Blend:
-3 drops Birch essential oil
-3 drops Cypress essential oil
-3 drops White Fir essential oil

One Good Thing By Jillee's Holiday Cheer Blend:
-2 drops Wild Orange essential oil
-4 drops Cinnamon Bark essential oil
-5 drops White Fir essential oil
-2 drops Frankincense essential oil (optional)

Camp Wander's Pine Forest Blend:
-4 drops White Fir essential oil
-3 drops Frankincense essential oil
-1 drop Wild Orange essential oil

Shop online for quality essential oils, diffusers, and more at www.sparknaturals.com

Monday, December 22, 2014

DIY Anti-Acne Serum




Did you know that Hemp Seed Oil can be wonderful for acne? We've combined Spark Naturals Organic Hemp Seed Oil with Lavender and Melaleuca EO to form a beneficial anti-acne serum.

DIY Anti-Acne Serum
You will need:
-1oz glass dropper bottle
-30 drops Lavender essential oil
-15 drops Melaleuca essential oil
-Spark Naturals Hemp Seed Oil

Combine in dropper bottle, beginning with EOs and filling with Hemp Seed Oil. Roll to combine and apply a few drops over face morning and night after toner.

Spark Naturals Hemp Seed Oil is non-comedogenic, which means that it will not clog your pores. I tried some the other day and I was amazed how quickly it absorbed and how soft and smooth my skin felt afterwards!

Hemp Seed Oil is also anti-inflammatory and nourishing to the skin, which makes it a fantastic choice for helping reduce acne inflammation, support healing from old scars, and help reduce the appearance of new blemishes!

Shop online for quality essential oils, hemp seed oil, and more at www.sparknaturals.com

Friday, December 19, 2014

Winter Warmer Massage Oil


BRR... it is COLD! While essential oils may not be able to change the weather outside, they can help make you more comfortable!

One of our favorite uses for Black Pepper essential oil is for its WARMING properties.

Winter Warmer Hand & Foot Massage Lotion/Oil
Add 2 drops of Black Pepper and 1 drop of Ginger (optional) essential oils to your favorite plain lotion or carrier oil and rub on hands and feet before going outside. Be sure to test a small amount to make sure that the dilution is correct before rubbing it all over, but you might be surprised how much this helps!

Get some black pepper today: http://sparknaturals.com/index.php/black-pepper.html

Thursday, December 18, 2014

Research: Grapefruit EO & Obesity


RESEARCH: According to this 2010 study, the scent of grapefruit essential oil has an anti-obesity effect (plus, it smells amazing)!

"When rats were exposed to the scent from grapefruit oil for 5 weeks, their body weight and food intake decreased. When rats were treated with the scent for 20 min, salivary amylase secretion was enhanced without changes in fluid secretion. These findings suggest that the scent from grapefruit oil activates sympathetic nerves, but not parasympathetic nerves, resulting in an anti-obesity effect."

Read more here: https://www.jstage.jst.go.jp/article/ijoms/9/1/9_1_31/_article

Grab some Grapefruit essential oil here: http://sparknaturals.com/index.php/essentialoils/grapefruit.html

DIY Body Spray

Do you like FRESH and SPICY scents? Try this easy DIY body spray!

Grapefruit Ginger Body Spray
-1 cup water
-2 T Witch Hazel
-5 drops Grapefruit essential oil
-2 drops Ginger essential oil
-1 drop Vetiver essential oil

Mix together and put in a glass spray bottle. Shake well to combine and before each use. Enjoy!

www.sparknaturals.com

Natural DIY Mothballs

These natural DIY mothballs are a perfect way to give a musty closet a quick refresh if you have guests coming!

Cedar is a great natural moth repellent, which is why cedar closets and chests are so popular. However, for those of us who aren't lucky enough to have those, there is a simple and cost-effective solution!

DIY Natural Mothballs
-cotton balls
-small bags
-Cedarwood essential oil
-Lavender or Clove essential oil

Simply put a few drops of each essential oil on each cotton ball, put a few balls in each sachet, and place in each drawer and closet in the home. for best results, refresh the balls monthly.

www.sparknaturals.com

Baby Brain Diffuser Blend

Life as a mom can be hard, especially if you have "baby brain" and feel like you're trying to think in a fog after a long night. Try this diffuser blend if you need some mental rejuvenation:

Baby Brain Diffuser Blend
-1 drop Rosemary essential oil
-2 drops Peppermint essential oil
-2 drops Patchouli essential oil

www.sparknaturals.com

Wednesday, December 17, 2014

Winter Forest Diffuser Blend

Looking for another great blend to get you in a good mood for the holidays? Try this Winter Forest Diffuser Blend!

Winter Forest Diffuser Blend
-3 drops Juniper Berry essential oil
-2 drops White Fir essential oil
-1 drop Cypress essential oil
-2 drops Cedarwood essential oil
-1 drop Eucalyptus essential oil (optional)

Breathe deep and enjoy!

www.sparknaturals.com

DIY Grime Cutter Dusting Spray

Am I the only one that DREADS dusting? It is the worst especially when dust combines with grime, making it impossible to wipe off with a microfiber cloth (my weapon of choice). If you want to streamline your heavy-duty dusting routine, try using this AMAZING heavy-duty dusting spray!

DIY Heavy-Duty Dusting Spray
-1/4 c unscented castile soap
-3/4 c water
-15-20 drops Cedarwood essential oil
-5 drops Wild Orange essential oil (optional)

Mix together in spray bottle and spray onto the surface, then wipe with a damp cloth. Simple - the way cleaning should be!

www.sparknaturals.com

Tuesday, December 16, 2014

Easy All-Purpose DIY Cleaner + Disinfectant

With out-of-town guests and friends visiting, you might find that certain areas of your home like your kitchen and restroom see more action than they typically do - keep this handy all-purpose cleaner and disinfectant around to spot clean as needed!

EASY All-Purpose DIY Cleaner + Disinfectant
-2 cups water
-2 cups vinegar
-15 drops Shield Protective Blend (or Lemon essential oil)

Combine in a spray bottle and use to disinfect and clean as needed. Shake well before each use.

www.sparknaturals.com

Healthy Holiday Diffuser Blend

Looking for something festive to put in the diffuser? Try this Healthy Holiday diffuser blend!

Healthy Holiday Diffuser Blend
-3 drops Shield Protective Blend
-2 drops Wild Orange essential oil
-2 drops White Fir essential oil

www.sparknaturals.com

Monday, December 15, 2014

DIY Grimy Window Cleaner

Have you ever found a window in your house that's inexplicably grimy? This can especially be the case in places like the bathroom (thanks to many personal care products) or kitchen (thanks to cooking).

Instead of reaching for a conventional cleaner, try a non-toxic DIY:

DIY Lemongrass Grapefruit Window Cleaner
-2oz water
-4 drops Lemongrass essential oil
-6 drops Grapefruit essential oil

Mix together in a 2oz glass spray bottle, and shake well. Spray and wipe. BONUS TIP: use old newspaper for an economical and lint-free clean!

Shop online for quality essential oils, accessories, and more at www.sparknaturals.com!

Essential oils and pregnancy

ESSENTIAL OIL EDUCATION: Essential oils and pregnancy!

We often get questions about essential oil usage in pregnancy. We ALWAYS recommend that you discuss the usage of essential oils directly with your care provider. Additionally, we found a great list to share in Essential Aromatherapy, available on www.sparknaturals.com.

Essential Oils Which Generally Should Be Avoided During Pregnancy:
-Basil
-Cinnamon
-Fennel
-Juniper Berry
-Marjoram
-Rosemary
-Thyme
-Clary Sage
-Oregano
-Clove
-Nutmeg
-Bay
-Pimento Berry
-Cistus
-Hops
-Sage
-Valerian
-Spikenard
-Tarragon
-Hyssop
-Myrrh
-Mace
-Cumin
-Parsley Seed
-Wintergreen
-Birch

Additionally, due to increased sensitivity and changes in skin pigmentation, Essential Aromatherapy advises caution in usage of citrus oils or oils that may cause skin irritation and suggests reducing the amount of essential oils used in a blend by half.

We also recommend caution using stimulating essential oils such as Peppermint as some believe they may cause contractions.

Most importantly, please discuss essential oil usage with your care provider!

Want more great information from Essential Aromatherapy? Grab this ultra-useful reference book here: http://sparknaturals.com/index.php/books/essential-aromatherapy-worwood-worwood.html

Scent Fake Flowers with essential oils

QUICK TIP: Have you ever tried adding a few drops of essential oils to permanent or silk floral arrangements in your home or office?

Here's how: Simply open the flower completely and place one drop of essential oil in the very middle. Keep in mind that this may cause discoloration - so test first if you think it might be a problem! As an alternative, you can put the essential oils on paper or a cotton ball and hide it in the vase.

A few good choices for scenting floral arrangements:
-Geranium
-Lavender
-Ylang Ylang
-Bergamot
-Coriander
-Patchouli
-Rose

Shop online for quality essential oils, accessories, and more at www.sparknaturals.com!

Windburn Facial Spray

Winter can be BRUTAL on skin, and essential oils can help! Try this facial spray for windburned cheeks that features skin-healthy Rose Water, Roman Chamomile, and Lavender:

Windburn Facial Spray
-4 oz Spark Naturals Rose Water
-2 drops Roman Chamomile essential oil
-2 drops Lavender essential oil

Combine in a 4oz glass spray bottle, starting with the essential oils and filling to the top with Rose Water. Shake well before each use.

Shop online at www.sparknaturals.com this week for FREE SHIPPING in the continental US!

3 Must-try Diffuser Blends for Holiday Stress

It's Monday, and there's only 10 days left until Christmas! This can often be a busy and tiring time, so why not try one of the diffuser blends below to support a healthy response to stress?

1. Southern California Holiday Diffuser Blend
-1 drop Black Pepper essential oil
-4 drops Wild Orange essential oil
-2 drops Rosemary essential oil

2. Citrus Sunrise Diffuser Blend
-2 drops Grapefruit essential oil
-2 drops Lemon essential oil
-2 drops Peppermint essential oil

3. Fearless Frankincense Diffuser Blend
-2 drops Bergamot essential oil
-3 drops Frankincense essential oil
-1 drop Vetiver essential oil

Shop online at www.sparknaturals.com this week for FREE shipping in the continental US!

Sunday, December 14, 2014

Mild Burn Relief with EOs

'tis the Season!!
With the cold weather settling in, many of us will be having a fire in our fireplace. If you are lucky you won't burn yourself. I accidentally bumped the fire grate and burned my finger. Here is my favorite burn relief.

Burn care
1 drop Spark Naturals Lavender
1 drop Spark Naturals Frankincense

Apply directly to the area. Rub in gently. Repeat 3-5 times daily.

www.sparknaturals.com

Cosy Afternoon Diffuser Blends

BRRR... it's COLD out there! If you're cosied up inside, put on one of these diffuser blends and drink some warm tea!

Spicy Citrus Blossom:
-5 drops Spark Naturals Frankincense essential oil
-3 drops Spark Naturals Coriander essential oil
-5 drops Spark Naturals Wild Orange essential oil
-2 drops Spark Naturals Ylang Ylang essential oil

Leather-bound Library:
-5 drops Spark Naturals Myrrh essential oil
-1 drop Spark Naturals Vetiver essential oil
-3 drops Spark Naturals Eucalyptus essential oil
-2 drops Spark Naturals Patchouli essential oil

www.sparknaturals.com

DIY Mouthwash

Have you looked at what's in your mouthwash recently? I did and was suddenly VERY interested in finding a DIY recipe to use instead!

If you're like me, try this ultra-simple DIY mouthwash:
-2 cups water or apple cider vinegar
-15 drops Shield Protective Blend
-2-5 drops Myrrh essential oil (optional, Myrrh is pretty bitter)

Shake well to combine and use as you would with normal mouthwash.

Shop online at www.sparknaturals.com

DIY Hand & Nail Butter

'Tis the season for dry, chapped hands, rough cuticles, and accidental baking burns (just me?). Try this Hand & Nail Butter recipe from Organic Body Care Recipes (available on www.sparknaturals.com) for yourself or for a DIY holiday gift!

"This formula is rich, moisturizing, and healing for irritated, dry hands and nails, chapped lips, rough knees, elbows, and feet. It's particularly effective for the prevention of scar tissue formation... when consistently applied to fresh cuts and scrapes."

Hand & Nail Butter
-4 T sweet almond oil
-2 T cocoa butter
-1 T anhydrous lanolin
-1 T beeswax (1.5 T if you want it firmer)
-50 drops Carrot Seed, Geranium, Lemon, and Grapefruit essential oil in any combination. You might try 10 drops Carrot Seed, 20 drops Geranium, and 20 drops Grapefruit essential oil!

In a small saucepan over low heat or in a double boiler, warm all ingredients except the essential oil until the wax and cocoa butter are just melted. Remove from head and stir a few times to blend. Add the essential oil, stir, and pour into storage container(s). Lightly cover each container with a paper towel and allow the mixture to cool before capping. Cocoa butter takes a while to set up, so leave the product at room temperature for 12 hours before use. The finished formula will have a paste wax consistency.

Note: This formula may harden in cold weather but will soften upon contact with warm skin. No refrigeration is required, but for maximum freshness and potency, please use within 1 year.

Love the recipe? Get the book here: http://sparknaturals.com/index.php/books/organic-body-care-recipies.html

Saturday, December 13, 2014

Teen Pick-Me-Up Bath

Does your teenager have a mild case of the blues? You might consider suggesting this bath protocol from The Aromatherapy Companion (available on www.sparknaturals.com).

"When teens get run down, they are particularly susceptible to colds, flus, and other viral illnesses. Fortunately, they are resilient and usually recover quickly. When everything hurts and a teen's got the blues, a nice hot soaking bath can bring comfort:

Teen Pick-Me-Up
-5 drops Eucalyptus essential oil
-5 drops Geranium essential oil
-5 drops Sandalwood essential oil
-5 drops Juniper Berry essential oil
120ml (4oz) milk

Stir the oils into the milk and disperse in a hot bath. Soak until the water turns tepid."

You could also leave the milk out and make this into a wonderful diffuser blend - whatever works for your family!

Like this blend? Get the book here: http://sparknaturals.com/index.php/books/aromatherapy-companion.html

Friday, December 12, 2014

DIY Stainless Sink Cleaner

Do you have a stainless steel sink? You use your sinks to clean your hands, food, cooking utensils, and more... but how often do you clean your sink? I recently cleaned the sink drain in a friend's rental apartment and we were all shocked and amazed how much better it looked afterwards!

Try this simple DIY sink cleaner to get things back to being fresh & clean!
-1/2 c baking soda
-1/8 c vinegar
-5 drops Spark Naturals Melaleuca essential oil
-3 drops Spark Naturals Bergamot essential oil
-3 drops Spark Naturals Lime essential oil

Combine baking soda and essential oils in sink; add vinegar and scrub thoroughly. Wash it down with hot water and you're done!

www.sparknaturals.com

Refreshing Rose Water Spritzer

Fridays can be insane. Here's a quick beauty tip to keep you on the go and feeling great:

Try mixing some Spark Naturals Rose Water with a drop or two of Peppermint essential oil and keep it in the fridge.

When you need to freshen up and invigorate your senses, simply take it out, shake it up, and spray it on your face (being careful to avoid getting any in your eyes).

It's the perfect refreshing pick-me-up, especially when dealing with dry, cold winter air. Happy Friday!

www.sparknaturals.com

TGIF Diffuser Blends

HAPPY FRIDAY! Did you know that aside from supporting a healthy response to negative emotional states, essential oils can also help you enhance positive emotions you're already feeling?

Ride that TGIF feeling all day long with these positive mood-enhancing blends:

1. Happiness Diffuser Blend
-6 drops Spark Naturals Bergamot essential oil
-2 drops Spark Naturals Ylang Ylang essential oil
-2 drops Spark Naturals Cedarwood essential oil
-3 drops Spark Naturals Tangerine essential oil
-4 drops Spark Naturals Lemon essential oil
-1 drop Spark Naturals Roman Chamomile essential oil
-3 drops Spark Naturals Geranium essential oil

2. Positively Energized Diffuser Blend
-2 drops Spark Naturals Lemongrass essential oil
-3 drops Spark Naturals White Fir essential oil
-1 drop Spark Naturals Basil essential oil
-1 drop Spark Naturals Cypress essential oil
-3 drops Spark Naturals Grapefruit essential oil

3. Confidence Diffuser Blend
-1 drop Spark Naturals Ginger essential oil
-3 drops Spark Naturals Wild Orange essential oil
-1 drop Spark Naturals Ylang Ylang essential oil
-2 drops Spark Naturals Frankincense essential oil

(Combine all oils in a dropper and add to diffuser per manufacturer's instructions).

Enjoy your Friday in great health!

www.sparknaturals.com

Thursday, December 11, 2014

DIY Garbage + Diaper Pail Cleaner

When was the last time you cleaned your diaper pail or trash can?

It's not a fun job, but it is an important part of keeping your house healthy and smelling good.

Try this DIY garbage and diaper pail cleaner to help you - and don't forget to wear gloves!

DIY Garbage & Diaper Pail Cleaner
-4 cups warm water
-1/3 cup white vinegar
-45 drops Melaleuca essential oil
-20 drops Shield Protective Blend
-15 drops Lemon essential oil
-5 drops Lavender, Grapefruit, or Peppermint essential oil (optional)

Combine all ingredients in an empty spray bottle and shake to combine. Use as a spray while wiping and/or scrubbing the can or pail out. Rinse with your hose and, if possible, allow to air-dry in the sun.

www.sparknaturals.com

Banish Brain Fog Diffuser Blend

Brain feeling a bit foggy this afternoon? Whether it's work, kids, or just a stressful week, try this diffuser blend! With grapefruit, bergamot, and basil, it is energizing as well as emotionally uplifting and mentally focusing:

Banish Brain Fog Diffuser Blend
•7 drops Grapefruit essential oil
•4 drops Bergamot essential oil
•2 drops Basil essential oil

Mix and add to diffuser per manufacturer's instructions.

www.sparknaturals.com

Almost Friday Diffuser Blends

Be honest... you were thinking it! Here are 3 diffuser blends for you to enjoy this "almost Friday"!

Floral Mint Diffuser Blend (for calm alertness)
-2 drops Ylang Ylang essential oil
-3 drops Peppermint essential oil

Zen Power Diffuser Blend (for positive focus)
-3 drops Zen Grounding Blend
-2 drops Grapefruit essential oil

Crisp, Fresh Air Diffuser Blend (for energizing mental clarity)
-3 drops White Fir essential oil
-2 drops Peppermint essential oil
-2 drops Bergamot essential oil

www.sparknaturals.com

Wednesday, December 10, 2014

DIY Shower, Tub + Grout Scrub



Yesterday it was time to clean the tub - you know what I mean! I whipped up a batch of this super-simple DIY Tub Scrub with essential oils and got to enjoy some aromatherapy (instead of getting high) with my cleaning! The tub has never looked better.

DIY Shower, Tub + Grout Scrub
-2 cups baking soda
-1 squirt castile soap
-2-3 drops Melaleuca essential oil
-2-3 drops Lemon essential oil
-enough water to make a paste

Simply combine in a glass bowl and use a hard-bristle scrubber for stubborn hard water stains and soap scum. Of course, make sure your tub material is safe for abrasives before using this! I've also used this on nasty grout - it works like a charm!

www.sparknaturals.com

Tuesday, December 9, 2014

Home Scent Diffuser Blends

Scent is a powerful sense that can evoke memories, brighten mood, and sometimes even help sell a house! Here are a few ULTRA-SIMPLE diffuser blends that are great for showing houses or when you have company headed over:

1. Holiday Baking Diffuser Blend
-2 drops Cassia essential oil
-3 drops Wild Orange essential oil

2. Citrus Bliss Diffuser Blend
-3 drops Bliss Blend
-2 drops Tangerine essential oil

3. Morning Forest Diffuser Blend
-3 drops Juniper Berry essential oil
-3 drops Bergamot essential oil

4. Awake & Rejuvenated Diffuser Blend
-2 drops Lavender essential oil
-2 drops Grapefruit essential oil
-2 drops Lime essential oil

5. Citrus Mint Diffuser Blend
-3 drops Tangerine essential oil
-1 drop Spearmint essential oil

Shop online for quality essential oils, diffusers, and more at www.sparknaturals.com!

Monday, December 8, 2014

DIY Belly Butter Recipe

Are you looking for a unique baby shower gift? Sometimes it's fun to have something for parents to use right away, and this Belly Butter is perfect just for that!

Spark Naturals Belly Butter

You will need:
-3-4 T Spark Naturals Fractionated Coconut Oil, Sweet Almond Oil, or other carrier oil
-1 T Spark Naturals Beeswax
-20-30 drops Spark Naturals Lavender Essential Oil

Directions:
In a double boiler, combine the oil and beeswax until the wax is melted. Remove from heat and add essential oil; stir to combine. Pour into storage container and allow to cool.

This Belly Butter is great for anywhere that skin is pulling and stretching or for anyone with dry skin! Apply three times daily or as needed and desired.

Recipe adapted from Organic Body Care Recipes by Tourles.
http://sparknaturals.com/index.php/books/organic-body-care-recipies.html

Friday, December 5, 2014

DIY Eye Makeup Remover

QUICK TIP: Are you tired of spending tons of money on eye makeup remover? Try this quick-and-easy DIY Eye Makeup Remover!

DIY Eye Makeup Remover
-2 oz Spark Naturals Hemp Seed Oil (can sub another carrier oil)
-1 oz Spark Naturals Witch Hazel
-1 oz Spark Naturals Rose Water

Simply put in an empty 4 oz container and shake to combine, then put some on a cotton pad and swipe away! Alternatively, you can massage it in gently with your fingertips and then wipe with a cotton pad. You will need to shake it each time before use.

Shop our e-Spa line: http://sparknaturals.com/index.php/espa.html

Thursday, December 4, 2014

TP Air Freshener

Trying to make the switch to NATURAL alternatives? If you're looking for a quick & easy way to naturally freshen up a bathroom, try putting a few drops of essential oil on the inside of the toilet paper roll each time you replace it.

Every time you pull the roll, you'll catch a whiff of the essential oil! You'll never look at a roll of toilet paper the same!

Citrus is GREAT for this. Check out our Citrus Kit here: http://sparknaturals.com/index.php/kits/kt-citrus.html

Prevent buildup with Lemon EO

QUICK TIP: EASY natural cleaning is all about prevention!

If your shower doors are glass and prone to soap scum buildup, simply wipe them down twice monthly with a few drops of Lemon essential oil. It smells amazing and will keep your doors looking great!

www.sparknaturals.com

Research: Better Test-Taking

RESEARCH: Do you or someone you know have a big test coming up? Do you get test anxiety? If so, try smelling some Lavender and Rosemary essential oils!

In this 2009 study, researches found that the use of lavender and rosemary essential oil sachets reduced test-taking stress in graduate nursing students as evidenced by lower scores on test anxiety measure, personal statements, and pulse rates.

Read more here: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19258850

Want an EASY-TO-USE and INEXPENSIVE personal diffuser? Check out our terra cotta pendants here: http://sparknaturals.com/index.php/ac-pendants.html

Wednesday, December 3, 2014

Relaxing Anti-Inflammatory Massage Oil

Winter can be a tough time of year for people who suffer from arthritis or other painful inflammatory conditions. If you know someone in this situation, you might consider a gentle massage (avoiding putting pressure on very painful areas) with this massage oil that includes essential oils believed to have anti-inflammatory and calming properties.

Relaxing Anti-Inflammatory Massage Oil
-2 oz Hemp Seed Oil or carrier oil of choice
-5 drops Juniper Berry essential oil
-5 drops Eucalyptus Radiata essential oil
-5 drops Roman Chamomile essential oil
-5 drops Lavender essential oil
-1 drop Black Pepper essential oil (optional, warming effect)

Mix all oils together and use for a light massage on affected areas or for general use.

Shop online for quality essential oils, carrier oils, and more at www.sparknaturals.com!

DIY Myrrh and Aloe Aftershave

Looking for an AMAZING DIY project for a special man in your life? Take a look at this powerful anti-inflammatory aftershave with Myrrh and Carrot Seed essential oil!

Featured in Hands-on Healing Remedies (available on www.sparknaturals.com), this recipe stars two powerful essential oils that will keep ingrown hairs at bay and nicks healing quickly.

Myrrh and Aloe Anti-Inflammatory Aftershave
-1/2 c aloe vera juice
-1/2 c witch hazel
-1/2 tsp vegetable glycerin
-25 drops Myrrh essential oil
-10 drops Carrot Seed essential oil

Combine the aloe vera juice, witch hazel, glycerin, and myrrh and carrot seed essential oils in a bottle and shake vigorously to blend. Label and store. This remedy is quite refreshing when chilled.

To apply: Shake well before each use. Apply generously immediately after shaving as a facial splash or with cotton pads. Follow with your favorite light moisturizer, if desired.

Want more great recipes like this one? Grab the book here: http://sparknaturals.com/index.php/books/hands-on-healing-remedies.html

Shop online for essential oils, witch hazel, and more at www.sparknaturals.com!

Wart Protocol with essential oils

BACK TO BASICS: Warts. They're no dinner conversation topic, but they're a reality of life for many people! Luckily, essential oils can be useful for banishing warts back whence they came.

Wart Protocol with essential oils

You will need:
-Melaleuca, Lemon, or Clove essential oil
-band-aid

Simply put one drop of essential oil directly on the wart twice daily and cover afterwards with a band-aid. Continue until healed.

NOTE: for those with sensitive skin, Melaleuca essential oil is typically a better choice than Lemon or Clove.

Shop online for quality essential oils, accessories, and more at www.sparknaturals.com.

Post-Crowd Diffuser Blend



Holiday guests, holiday crowds, and holiday shopping can leave all of us a bit spent! If you need a pick-me-up, especially after being around a lot of people, try this rejuvenating diffuser blend!

Post-Crowd Rejuvenating Diffuser Blend
-2 drops Juniper Berry essential oil
-2 drops Grapefruit essential oil
-1 drop Peppermint essential oil

Still need a diffuser?: http://sparknaturals.com/index.php/diffusers.html

Uses for Lemon essential oil

Happy Wednesday! As you know, our top-selling Essential 4 Packs are ON SALE this week. My friend told me that she LOVES all of the E4P oils, but she doesn't find many uses for the Lemon essential oil. Are you with her?

Here is a short list of a few FABULOUS uses for Lemon essential oil!

1. Diffuse it.

Lemon essential oil has been shown to support a healthy response to stress and is also believed to have focus- and memory-supportive and anti-depressant properties. Plus, it just smells amazing! Diffuse it alone or with other essential oils. We love diffusing Bliss and Lemon essential oil!

2. Dab it on: cold sores, insect bites/stings, acne, callouses...

Lemon essential oil has antimicrobial and antiseptic properties that make it a great choice in many types of skin care. Apply 1-2 drops via cotton swab and rub into the affected area at least once daily. NOTE: most citrus oils are photo-sensitizing, so be sure to avoid direct sun exposure on the treated area for at least 12 hours afterwards.

3. Clean with it!

Honestly, cleaning is one of my FAVORITE applications for Lemon essential oil. You can add a few drops to some quality olive oil and make DIY furniture polish, add a few drops to your sink or dish washing soap for a de-greasing boost, apply directly to price tags and remove with NO RESIDUE (I kid you not!) or use with coarse salt to clean your favorite wooden cutting board. I've also heard that it's fantastic for removing crayon from walls (for all you moms out there)! I could go on for ages, but you get the idea!

4. Drink it or cook with it.

Lemon is believed to aid digestion, and many people also believe that it may be helpful in promoting lymph health. Add a drop or two to a glass of water or, if you're feeling a cold coming on (and you're out of Shield), add a few drops to a cup of warm water and drink up! This is perfect if you find yourself at home without the fresh fruit when a cold strikes. Lemon essential oil is also fantastic as an addition to baked goods, marinades, salad dressing - anything you would typically use Lemon in!

5. Make DIY LLP Allergy Blend.

Mix equal parts of Lemon, Lavender, and Peppermint essential oil (all found in your trusty Essential 4 Pack) and put a few drops in a glass of water or diffuse for some natural antihistamine activity! This has saved me more than once after mowing the lawn (I'm allergic to freshly-cut grass).

We want to know: what are YOUR favorite uses for Lemon essential oil?

Get your Essential 4 Pack today: http://sparknaturals.com/index.php/kits/essential-4-pack.html

Tuesday, December 2, 2014

EO-Boosted Firewood

There's almost NOTHING I love more than a warm fire on a cold night! Have you ever eo-boosted your firewood?

Add 1-2 drops essential oil to your wood (best a few days prior to burning, but be sure to let it soak in) and enjoy the aroma in the room! Good news: you only need to burn one infused log at a time - a little goes a long way.

Here are some GREAT essential oils to try:
-Cypress
-Juniper Berry
-White Fir
-Cedarwood
-Sandalwood
-Frankincense
-Myrrh

GIFT IDEA: Try eo-boosting a small bundle of firewood or kindling as a gift!

Fresh & Festive Diffuser Blend

Are you having a hard time EMBRACING the holidays this year? Or do you have an artificial tree? Try this refreshing diffuser blend that'll be SURE to get you in the holiday spirit!

Fresh & Festive Diffuser Blend
-1 drop Juniper Berry essential oil
-2 drops Tangerine essential oil
-1 drop Cedarwood essential oil
-2 drops White Fir essential oil

Shop online at www.sparknaturals.com this week for FREE SHIPPING, all diffusers ON SALE, and other great deals!

Monday, December 1, 2014

Sandalwood Diffuser Blends


Psst... looking for some AMAZING diffuser blends using the Sandalwood essential oil in your new Exquisite Collection? Try one of these!

1. Sage & Sandalwood (uplifting relaxation)
-1 drop Ylang Ylang essential oil
-3 drops Clary Sage essential oil
-2 drops Sandalwood essential oil


2. Balancing Geranium Diffuser Blend
•3 drops Geranium essential oil
•2 drops Frankincense essential oil
•1 drop Bergamot essential oil
•1 drop Sandalwood essential oil

3. Cosy Cabin Diffuser Blend
-1 drop Vetiver essential oil
-2 drops Cedarwood essential oil
-1 drop Sandalwood essential oil
-2 drops Wild Orange essential oil
-3 drops Lavender essential oil

4. Positive & Self-Confident Diffuser Blend
-1 drop Vetiver essential oil
-2 drops Bergamot essential oil
-5 drops Ylang Ylang essential oil
-6 drops Sandalwood essential oil

5. Lap of Luxury Diffuser Blend
-3 drops Sandalwood essential oil
-2 drops Rose essential oil
-1 drop Ylang Ylang essential oil (optional)
-1 drop Bergamot essential oil (optional)

Grab the NEW Exquisite Collection here: http://sparknaturals.com/index.php/kits/kt-exquisite.html

Don't forget ALL DIFFUSERS ARE ON SALE THIS WEEK ONLY! http://sparknaturals.com/index.php/diffusers.html