Top 10 Diffuser Blends

It's the weekend! Why not get the day started off right. The following blends are meant to be used in a cold-air diffuser. The type of diffusers I use require a small amount of water to which the oils are added. I generally use 6-8 drops of oil per “batch.” If you don’t have one of the components, you can still try the recipe without it. Enjoy these and maybe share your favorites with us.
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1. The Wake Up Blend
This is a much-loved combo, and for good reason! It’s perfect to increase alertness, or when you need a quick pick-me-up.
3 drops Wild Orange EO
3 drops Peppermint EO

2. Fresh and Clean
This blend is wonderful for creating a welcoming atmosphere in your home. It’s bright and fresh:
2 drops Lavender
2 drops Lemon
2 drops Rosemary

3. Odor Eliminator
We are animal-people, and we’ve had our fair share of “incidences” in our house. Whenever this happens, I like to diffuse this blend. It freshens up the air in no time:
2 drops Lemon
1 drop Melaleuca
1 drop Lime
1 drop White Fir
1 drop of Cilantro

4. Seasonal Support
These three oils together are spectacular for helping to maintain clear breathing and a healthy immune response. I use this blend especially during the spring and summer months.
2 drops Lavender
2 drops Lemon
2 drops Peppermint

5. Citrus Explosion
I love diffusing citrus blends when we have company coming over. It makes my house smell happy and clean.
1 drop Lemon
1 drop Lime
1 drop Wild Orange
1 drop Grapefruit
1 drop Bergamot

6. Take a Deep Breath Blend
I tend to be a very high-energy person. The good part of that? I get a lot done. The bad part? I have a hard time settling down sometimes…
I adore this blend for the evenings when I’m trying to slow my brain down, and I also like to diffuse it in the bedroom as I fall asleep:
1 drop Bergamot
1 drop Lavender
1 drop Patchouli
1 drop Ylang Ylang

7. Respiratory Blend
Use this blend to boost respiratory function–especially during cold and flu season.
1 drop Lemon
1 drop Lime
1 drop Peppermint
1 drop Rosemary
1 drop Eucalyptus

8. Flower Garden Blend
Want your home to smell like a flower garden in full bloom? Try this one:
2 drop Clary Sage
2 drop Geranium
2 drop Lavender
2 drop Roman Chamomile

9. The Man-Cave Blend
I think this combo smells very masculine and woodsy…
2 drops White Fir
2 drops Cypress
2 drops Wintergreen

10. Bug Repellent Blend
This combo isn’t one that I’d necessarily wear as perfume, but it contains a collection of oils that most creepy-crawlies dislike:
1 drop Lemongrass
1 drop Melaleuca
1 drop Thyme
1 drop Eucalyptus
1 drop Rosemary

Anticellulite Detox Bath

If you're suffering from cellulite or water retention, try this bath from Organic Body Care Recipes:

Herbal Anticellulite Detox Bath Tea
-1 gallon purified water
-1 cup dried chopped ginger root (or 2 cups fresh)
-1/2 cup juniper berries
-1/2 cup rosemary leaves
-1/2 cup thyme leaves
-1 cup Epsom salt
-10 drops Geranium essential oil
-5 drops Juniper Berry essential oil
-3 drops Cedarwood essential oil
-3 drops Grapefruit essential oil

Directions:
In a large pan, bring the water to a boil. Remove from heat and add the herbs. Cover and steep for 3-4 hours, then strain, squeezing infusion from herbs. Turn on the tap full blast (the water temperature should be quite warm) and pour in the Epsom salt and the herbal infusion. Add the essential oils and swish the water with your hands to blend (do not skip this!).

Application tips:
To aid the herbs' penetration into the skin, dry brush your entire body before bathing (see directions on page 36). While soaking 20-30 minutes, drink 2 full glasses of hot, purified water laced with
2 teaspoons of fresh lemon juice. It's important to sweat during this bath. The water, lemon, and sweating action flush toxins from the body via the kidneys and perspiration. Following the bath, dry off with a coarse towel, concentrating your efforts on areas with cellulite.

NOTE: It is important to stay well-hydrated. Listen to your body - if you don't feel well, get out! Do not do this bath if you have kidney problems.

Love this? Want more? Hurry! Organic Body Care Recipes is on sale through TOMORROW as one of our Deals of the Month!

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Oil-balancing Skin Serum

This sebum-balancing skin serum (p. 82 of Naturally Healthy Skin, available on sparknaturals.com) is perfect for winter when so many of us suffer with dry skin.

•2 T SN Sweet Almond Oil, Hemp Seed Oil, or preferred carrier oil
•4 drops SN Lavender essential oil
•4 drops SN Eucalyptus essential oil
•3 drops SN Cypress essential oil
•2 drops SN Lemongrass essential oil

Combine all ingredients in a 1oz bottle and store in the refrigerator. Apply on clean, damp skin after toner. Place 2-4 drops in the palm of your hand and add a few drops of water. Rub hands together and press gently into your face and neck.

Hurry - Don't miss our February Deals of the Month (such as Hemp Seed Oil and Lemongrass essential oil) while they're still here!
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DIY Oily Skin Serum Recipe

Do you have oily skin? Try this serum! Using an oil-based serum to help with oily skin may seem counter-intuitive, but it can really help.

Oily Skin Serum
Mix:
-2oz Spark Naturals Grape Seed Oil
-5 drops Rosemary essential oil
-5 drops Clary Sage essential oil
-5 drops Grapefruit essential oil

To use, mix with a few drops of water or use straight and rub your hands together, then apply the mixture to your face gently and rub until absorbed.

This is a great blend for a gift, too! Along with skin health, it will help lift spirits as well due to the calming and uplifting properties of Clary Sage and Grapefruit essential oils.

Have you ever made skin serum?

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Stress-Relieving Diffuser Blends

Stressful morning already? We could all use a little less stress in our lives! Try these stress-relieving diffuser blends:

•2 drops Clary Sage essential oil
•1 drop Roman Chamomile essential oil
•1 drop Lavender essential oil

•2 drops Geranium essential oil
•3 drops Frankincense essential oil
•1 drop Bergamot essential oil
•1 drop Lavender essential oil

•2 drops Sandalwood essential oil
•1 drop Vetiver essential oil
•2 drops Grapefruit essential oil
•1 drop Clary Sage essential oil

What are YOUR favorite stress-busting diffuser blends?

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DIY Natural Deodorant

Our 4 oz Glass Spray Bottle is perfect for DIY projects like this DIY all-natural deodorant!

You will need:
-2 T grain alcohol or high-proof vodka
-2 T Spark Naturals Witch Hazel
-1/4 c water
-20-25 drops Spark Naturals essential oils

Directions:
Measure all ingredients into a 4oz glass bottle and shake well to combine. Apply to clean underarms.

Looking for inspiration? Try this essential oil combination:

8 drops Spark Naturals Melaleuca essential oil
10 drops Spark Naturals Lavender essential oil
5 drops Spark Naturals Geranium essential oil
2 drops Spark Naturals Sandalwood essential oil (optional)

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Hand & Nail Butter

Winter is high 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 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 while it's ON SALE here: http://ss1.us/a/zDlZXe41

Lime EO and Foodborne Pathogens

RESEARCH: Do you LOVE cream-filled pastries?

Cream-filled pastries can be DELICIOUS... and more susceptible to spoilage. However, this 2011 study investigated the potential use of Lime essential oil against food-borne pathogens. Lime essential oil is widely used in baked goods, so it would be a natural choice for inclusion in cream-filled pastries. In this study, pathogens from cream-filled pastries were isolated for testing with Lime essential oil.

THE RESULTS: According to their findings, Lime oil can increase the time needed for the spoilage bacteria to reach concentrations able to produce a perceivable spoilage and it may consequently reduce the risk of diseases associated with consumption of contaminated products.

Read the full story here: http://www.researchgate.net/publication/249319038_Antimicrobial_Activity_of_Lime_Essential_Oil_Against_Food-borne_Pathogens_Isolated_from_Cream-filled_Cakes_and_Pastries

www.sparknaturals.com

DIY Refreshing Grapefruit Glass Cleaner

Tired of conventional glass cleaners? Try this quick-and-easy green cleaning recipe!

DIY Refreshing Grapefruit Glass Cleaner
-1.5 cups vinegar
-.5 cup water
-6 drops Grapefruit essential oil
-2 drops Peppermint essential oil (optional)

Mix together in a glass or PET plastic spray bottle, shake and go at it! Use crumpled newspapers for an economical, streak-free shine.

www.sparknaturals.com

Energizing Morning Diffuser Blend

I spent all last night driving through a snowstorm and I am a little tired this morning to say the least.

If you need a bit of extra pep in your step this morning, try this diffuser blend:

Energizing Morning Diffuser Blend
-3 drops Peppermint essential oil
-3 drops Lime essential oil

For a little extra brain boost, add a drop of Rosemary or Basil essential oil. Happy Monday!

www.sparknaturals.com

Insomnia Blends

Do you suffer from insomnia?

Try these great DIY blends from The Fragrant Mind:

Insomnia - noise wakes you
-10 drops Lavender
-15 drops Lemon
-5 drops Vetiver

Insomnia - restlessness
-10 drops Vetiver
-10 drops Clary Sage
-10 drops Lemon

Insomnia - fitfulness
-5 drops Marjoram
-15 drops Lavender
-5 drops Lemon

Insomnia - anxiety
-10 drops Roman Chamomile
-15 drops Sandalwood
-5 drops Lemon

These blends can be used in a number of ways - put several drops in a bath before bed, dilute in 1oz of carrier oil for a massage oil, or simply diffuse. If you don't have a diffuser, you can place a few drops on a tissue or cotton ball and place it under your pillow - but be careful, some might stain your sheets slightly!

Like these? Get the book here:
http://sparknaturals.com/index.php/books/the-fragrant-mind-book-valerie-ann-worwood.html

Headache Protocols

I don't know what it is about Thursdays, but I often end up with a BEAR of a headache by the end of the day! If you find yourself in the same position, try this protocol:

Headache Compress Blend #1
-3 drops Peppermint essential oil
-3 drops Lavender essential oil
-2 drops Roman Chamomile essential oil
-2 drops Birch essential oil (optional)

Headache Compress Blend #2
-9 drops Relief Blend

Directions: Mix blend with 2 cups of water, preferably ice cold (be sure your room is nice and warm!). If you think your headache might be connected to congestion, try using very warm water, taking care not to burn your skin. Dip a washcloth in the mixture, wring it out, and apply to your forehead as you relax.

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

Bergamot EO & Surgery Anxiety

RESEARCH: Bergamot essential oil and surgery anxiety

This 2013 study aimed to determine if aromatherapy could reduce preoperative anxiety in ambulatory surgery patients. A total of 109 preoperative patients were randomly assigned to experimental (bergamot essential oil) and control (water vapor) conditions and their responses to the State Trait Anxiety Inventory and vital signs were monitored.

THE RESULTS: Regardless of previous surgical experience, patients exposed to bergamot essential oil aromatherapy were less anxious than controls.

THE BOTTOM LINE: Aromatherapy may be a useful part of a holistic approach to reducing preoperative anxiety before ambulatory surgery.

We love the idea of using aromatherapy in medical settings! We can't wait to see more research on this topic and application of this research in practice.

www.sparknaturals.com

Thursday Diffuser Blend

It's Thursday already? This week is just flying by! Get your morning started with this classic diffuser blend:

-2 drops Grapefruit essential oil
-2 drops Lime essential oil
-2 drops Lavender essential oil

www.sparknaturals.com

Caretaker's Gentle Comfort Blend

Are you a caretaker for a relative or loved on with dementia? It can be an extremely difficult labor of love.

Valerie Ann Worwood recommends the following supportive essential oil blend in The Fragrant Mind:

Caretaker's Gentle Comfort
-7 drops Geranium essential oil
-5 drops Patchouli essential oil
-8 drops Bergamot essential oil
-10 drops Rose essential oil

This would make a fantastic diffuser blend or could be diluted in 1oz of carrier oil for a relaxing foot massage.

Don't forget to take care of yourself, too!

www.sparknaturals.com

Confidence Booster Diffuser Blend

Looking for a quick confidence booster? Try this diffuser blend:

-2 drops Cedarwood essential oil
-4 drops Grapefruit essential oil
-1 drop Coriander essential oil

www.sparknaturals.com

EASY 2-Oil Diffuser Blends!

Looking for some quick and easy diffuser blends? Check out our newest collection of TWO-OIL BLENDS:

1. Seriously Refreshing Diffuser Blend
-2 drops Juniper Berry essential oil
-2 drops Peppermint essential oil

2. Relaxed & Peaceful Diffuser Blend
-3 drops Lavender essential oil
-2 drops Roman Chamomile essential oil

3. Balanced Happiness Diffuser Blend
-1 drop Vetiver essential oil
-4 drops Grapefruit essential oil

www.sparknaturals.com

Antimicrobial Oil Recipe

BACK TO BASICS: Melaleuca essential oil

The real question is, what ISN'T Melaleuca EO good for? Just kidding. But really, Melaleuca essential oil is a fantastic addition to any natural first aid kit for its amazing antimicrobal properties.

Antimicrobial Oil
-2 T carrier oil (Fractionated Coconut Oil, Sweet Almond, or Grapeseed oil are great choices)
-3-5 drops Melaleuca essential oil

Simply mix together and use a small amount to rub into mild skin irritation like small cuts or scrapes or fungal infections like athlete's foot. This is a great oil to have around for whenever the need arises!

Grab some here:
http://sparknaturals.com/index.php/essentialoils/eo-melaleuca.html

Lavender EO and Trust

RESEARCH: Lavender essential oil and trust.

This study is the first to demonstrate that scent can have an impact on interpersonal trust. In this 2014 study, Lavender, Peppermint, or no scents were present in a room where a Trust Game was being played. A survey on affect (mood/feelings) was also conducted. They observed that, compared to peppermint and control (no aroma) exposure, being exposed to lavender aroma increased interpersonal trust. By comparison, being exposed to peppermint aroma did not reduce interpersonal trust compared to the control (no aroma) condition.

How does it work? They think that the calming scent of lavender temporarily induces a more inclusive cognitive-control state that, in turn, influences the extent to which people trust others.

What does it mean?
"Our results might have various serious implications for a broad range of situations in which interpersonal trust is an essential element, such as cooperation (e.g., mixed-motives situations), bargaining and negotiation, consumer behavior, social bonding, and group performance. As in the case of a previous study (Baron, 1997), which showed that prosocial behavior was significantly greater in the presence of “sweet” fragrances (e.g., baking cookies, roasting coffee), smelling the aroma of lavender may help a seller to establish more easily a trusting negotiation to sell a car, or in a grocery store it may induce consumers to spend more money buying products. The smell of lavender may also be helpful in sport psychology to enhance trust and build team spirit, for example in the case of team games such as soccer and volleyball.'

Read more here: http://journal.frontiersin.org/article/10.3389/fpsyg.2014.01486/full

Get some Lavender essential oil here:
http://sparknaturals.com/index.php/essentialoils/eo-lavender.html

DIY Facial Cleansing Cream

Looking for a good DIY facial cleanser for normal skin? Give this awesome VEGAN recipe a shot!

Naturally Vegan DIY Facial Cleansing Cream
-2 T sweet almond oil
-2 T non-gmo corn starch
-2 T glycerin (vegetable-derived for vegans)
-3-5 drops Lavender essential oil

Directions: Simply combine all ingredients in a glass bowl and whisk until smooth and creamy. Store in a glass jar with an airtight lid.

To use, simply rub some of the mixture into your skin in a circular motion, moving from the neck upward and outward. Wipe off any excess with a soft washcloth and rinse well. Enjoy!

www.sparknaturals.com

(recipe adapted from make your place by raleigh briggs)

Rose & Orange EO for Relaxation

RESEARCH: Rose and Orange essential oil for relaxation

This study aimed to clarify the effects of olfactory stimulation with rose or orange oil on relaxation by measuring prefrontal cortex activity and by asking participants about their experience. Subjects were exposed for 90 seconds to air impregnated with rose, orange, or no essential oil. Three stimuli were randomly presented to each subject.

THE RESULTS: Study findings indicate that olfactory stimulation by rose or orange oil induces physiological and psychological relaxation.

Want some of the benefits of Rose essential oil without the price tag? Try our Rose Water here: http://sparknaturals.com/index.php/espa.html

Read more here: http://www.complementarytherapiesinmedicine.com/article/S0965-2299%2814%2900148-4/abstract

Shop online at www.sparknaturals.com.

All-Purpose Spray Cleaner

SPRING CLEANING: You can never go wrong having some GREAT all-purpose natural cleaner mixed up - perfect for spot cleaning or more serious scrubbing!

All Purpose Spray Cleaner
-2 t borax
-4 T vinegar
-1/2 cup castile soap
-20-30 drops Spark Naturals WIld Orange, Lemon, Melaleuca, Eucalyptus, Peppermint, or Lavender essential oil.
-32 oz hot water

Fill 32 oz spray bottle 1/4 full with hot water then add borax. Shake to completely dissolve borax. Next add vinegar, home soap, and 20-25 drops essential oil. Fill the rest of the bottle with hot water. Gently shake mixture. Ready for use.

www.sparknaturals.com

Minty Citrus Diffuser Blend

Good morning! Whether you're enjoying the holiday at home or headed back to work this morning, give yourself a little boost with this minty citrus diffuser blend!

Minty Citrus Diffuser Blend
-2 drops Grapefruit essential oil
-2 drops Lime essential oil
-2 drops Tangerine essential oil
-2 drops Peppermint essential oil

www.sparknaturals.com

Patchouli Essential oil

DID YOU KNOW? Patchouli essential oil

Patchouli comes from the same plant family as Basil, Lavender, Marjoram, Melissa, Peppermint, Rosemary, Thyme, and many other herbs. However, it is very different from them both in beneficial properties or uses and its plant structure and appearance.

Patchouli essential oil is pungent with a musky, earthy, slightly spicy aroma. Historically, it has been used for reducing the sting of insect and snake bites. It also has stimulant, antiseptic, tonic, deodorant, decongestant, antimicrobial, antifungal, mood-lifting, aphrodisiac, astringent, and calming properties.

What do YOU use Patchouli for? Tell us in the comments!

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

Aggressive or Angry Child Diffuser Blend

Is your child aggressive?

Of course, it's very important to find the underlying cause of the issue, but some people have found aromatherapy a useful part of reducing aggression among children.

Try this blend from The Fragrant Mind (link below):

Childhood Aggression Blend (suitable for ages 5-15+)
-5 drops Roman Chamomile essential oil
-5 drops Lavender essential oil
-2 drops Frankincense essential oil
-3 drops Geranium essential oil

You can use this blend in a diffuser, mixed with 1oz carrier oil as a massage oil, or added to a bath (use 3-4 drops of the blend for a normal-sized, large bath).

Like this blend? Grab The Fragrant Mind here:
http://sparknaturals.com/index.php/books/the-fragrant-mind-book-valerie-ann-worwood.html

Lavender & Burns

QUICK TIP: Minor Burns & Lavender

If you experience a minor burn in your day-to-day life, try applying Lavender essential oil directly to the affected area as soon as possible after it occurs.

Lavender essential oil has historically been used for burns, especially due to its antiseptic, pain-relieving, and healing properties.

Can't (or won't) use Lavender? Try Melaleuca essential oil instead.

Grab some today: http://sparknaturals.com/index.php/essentialoils/eo-lavender.html

Herby Brain Power Diffuser Blend

Buckling down to do some studying this evening? Don't forget to diffuse!

Herby Brain Power Diffuser Blend
•2 drops Spark Naturals Rosemary essential oil
•2 drops Spark Naturals Lavender essential oil
•1 drop Spark Naturals Basil essential oil

www.sparknaturals.com

Burnout Diffuser Blend

Are you suffering from some burnout? We've all been there, and this time of year can be especially rough for it.

Try this Burnout Diffuser Blend:
-1 drop Spark Naturals Vetiver essential oil
-2 drops Spark Naturals Lavender essential oil
-3 drops Spark Naturals Bergamot essential oil

www.sparknaturals.com

Tension Headache Foot Soak Recipe

If you feel a tension headache coming on, pop off your shoes and try this herbal foot soak! The cold water draws blood from your head and the essential oils help balance and cool your body.

You will need:
-foot tub filled with very cold water
-2 tsp vegetable glycerin
-5 drops Spark Naturals Lavender essential oil
-3-5 drops Spark Naturals Peppermint essential oil

Combine the glycerin and EOs in a small bowl. Then, pour the blend into the tub and mix with your feet. Soak for 10-15 minutes and then dry your feet while rubbing roughly. Apply moisturizer if desired.

Recipe adapted from Hands-on Healing Remedies.

http://sparknaturals.com/index.php/books/hands-on-healing-remedies.html

Blackberry Coconut Water Smoothie

Are you looking for a great way to rehydrate and cool down after a hard workout?

Try this delicious Blackberry-Coconut Water smoothie! Full of natural electrolytes and eo-boosted with oils that could support lymph health and detoxification, this smoothie is a natural choice for post-workout recovery.

Ingredients:
-1 cup of frozen blackberries
-1 cup of water or coconut water
-1-2 tablespoons of lime or lemon juice (you could also use 1-2 drops of Lime or Lemon Essential Oil)
-1 drop Spark Naturals Cilantro essential oil
-1 frozen banana
-3 tablespoons of raw honey or coconut sugar
-1/2 tsp Spark Naturals Rose Water
-pinch of salt

Directions:
Add all ingredients to your blender and blend until smooth. Serve and enjoy!

www.sparknaturals.com

DIY Hand Sanitizer Recipe

Do you LOVE hand sanitizer but HATE the dry skin it gives you? Hand sanitizer is a way of life for many of us when we're on the go, especially during the cold & flu season!

Try this AMAZING recipe that helps keep things clean without drying out your skin!

DIY Hand Sanitizer
2 oz vegetable glycerin
25 drops Spark Naturals Melaleuca essential oil
5 drops Spark Naturals Grapefruit essential oil (can sub w/Lavender)
20 drops Spark Naturals Lavender essential oil
1 T Spark Naturals Witch Hazel
1/4 t Spark Naturals Grape Seed Oil

Mix all ingredients together in a glass bowl and put in a clean, empty squeeze bottle. Use as desired.

Shop online for quality essential oils, Witch Hazel and Grape Seed Oil at www.sparknaturals.com!

DIY Produce Wash Recipe

I keep seeing great deals on berries in my local grocery stores and I can't help but buy them. However, I often find myself disappointed with how quickly they go bad.

Then, I remembered this EASY rinse to prolong the shelf life! Give it a shot and get a chance to enjoy your produce before it turns!

You will need:
-4 drops of Spark Naturals Lemon essential oil
-1 cup of white vinegar
-water

Instructions:
1. Fill your kitchen sink with warm water.
2. Add 1 cup of white vinegar and 4 drops of lemon essential oil. Stir.
3. Add fruit and vegetables.
4. Let soak for 10 minutes.
5. Rinse and pat dry, then store in fridge.

This is great for berries as it keeps them from molding. Strawberries can last for weeks. Happy Soaking!

www.sparknaturals.com

Focus Support Diffuser Blend

Good morning! Welcome the day with this focus-boosting, supportive diffuser blend for a healthy response to a demanding day!

-2 drops Tangerine essential oil
-2 drops Ylang Ylang essential oil
-1 drops Basil essential oil

www.sparknaturals.com

DIY Natural Foot Powder

If you're anything like us, the warmer weather may have pushed you back into exercising more - which might mean that your sneakers could use a freshening up!

Try this natural foot powder:
-4 T baking soda
-4 T cornstarch (or 4 T more of baking soda)
-8 drops Spark Naturals Melaleuca essential oil
-8 drops Spark Naturals Lavender essential oil

Mix the dry ingredients and gradually add the oils, stirring to combine. Sprinkle lightly into shoes after use, let them sit for several hours or overnight, and tap them out before putting them back on. Over time, you should see a reduction in shoe odor.

Alternatively, you can take a page out of One Good Thing By Jillee's book and put the mix inside old nylons or socks, tying them off, and then stuffing them inside your shoes.

www.sparknaturals.com

Melaleuca EO for Cold Sores

BACK TO BASICS: Cold Sores.

Looking for a natural and affordable way to send cold sores packing?

Put a drop of Melaleuca directly on the cold sore (dilute with a carrier oil if you have sensitive skin) several times each day until it subsides - if you catch it early, you should be able to avoid scabbing and soreness.

This remedy is a favorite here at Spark HQ!

www.sparknaturals.com

Hemp Seed Oil for Acne

Have we mentioned that our Spark Naturals Hemp Seed Oil (ON SALE this month!) can be wonderful for acne?

Try the serum below to reap the benefits of blending beneficial essential oils with certified organic hemp seed oil!

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! We've combined Spark Naturals Hemp Seed Oil with Spark Naturals Lavender and Melaleuca essential oils to form a beneficial anti-acne serum.

You will need:
-1oz glass dropper bottle
-30 drops Spark Naturals Lavender essential oil
-15 drops Spark Naturals 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.

www.sparknaturals.com

DIY Green Fabric Softener

Tired of using conventional fabric softener, full of dyes, artificial scents and chemicals? Us, too!

Monday is Laundry Day in our house, so it seemed fitting to share this DIY Fabric Softener from Camp Wander!

DIY Green Fabric Softener
To a quart of white vinegar, add 40 drops of Lavender essential oil or any other EO you prefer. Add 1/2 cup of your natural fabric softener to the rinse cycle or to a fabric softener ball that you throw in with the wash.

Enjoy!

www.sparknaturals.com

DIY Beard Balm

Looking for a great DIY for your Valentine this weekend? Give this Beard Balm a shot!

DIY Beard Balm
(adapted from Beauty by the Geeks)
-1 T beeswax
-1 tsp shea butter
-1 tsp sweet almond oil
-1 tsp argan oil
-2 vitamin E capsule/ 4 drops vitamin E oil
-2-3 drops essential oil (choose your favorite scent or address specific needs of your gent - cedarwood, lemongrass, melaleuca, grapefruit, vetiver, sandalwood, juniper berry, and patchouli are all great choices - or combine more than one oil for a more complex scent!)

Directions:
1. Melt the beeswax, shea butter, and sweet almond oil together on a low heat double boiler.
2. Remove from heat and stir in essential oils and vitamin E.
3. Stir the mixture well and immediately pour into a container. Allow to harden overnight.

From BBTG:
"So how does our balm work?

Beeswax is rich in Vitamin A and has fantastic emollient properties that help in promoting cells to develop healthily. Whilst the beeswax helps your skin the Shea butter (which we use in a lot of our DIYs so stock up) is full of Vitamin A, E and F that provide intense moisturising helping in taming and softening your beard. Argan oil is widely used to soften hair but it is also a fantastic anti-oxidant protecting your beard from free radicals."

Read the original post here: http://www.beautybythegeeks.com/diy-beard-balm-for-men/

Grab your ingredients here:
www.sparknaturals.com

RESEARCH: Lemongrass essential oil

RESEARCH: Lemongrass essential oil - not just for insect repellent!

This 2014 study investigated the effectiveness of Lemongrass essential oil for its topical and oral anti-inflammatory as well as its antifungal effects via vapor.

THE RESULTS: Potent anti-inflammatory and antifungal effects were observed in this preliminary study. The authors state that the study indicates that Lemongrass essential oil has a noteworthy potential for the development of drugs for the treatment of fungal infections and skin inflammation that should be explored in future studies.

Read the full text here: http://www.ajol.info/index.php/ljm/article/view/108546

www.sparknaturals.com

Late Night, Early Morning Diffuser Blend

Give your morning a kick start with this refreshing blend!

Late Night, Early Morning Diffuser Blend
-1 drop Cedarwood essential oil (optional)
-1 drop Lime essential oil
-3 drops Tangerine essential oil
-2 drops Peppermint essential oil

www.sparknaturals.com

Evening Lift Diffuser Blend

Looking for a great evening diffuser blend? Try this gentle, uplifting combination:

Evening Lift Diffuser Blend
-3 drops Coriander essential oil
-4 drops Wild Orange essential oil
-2 drops Sandalwood essential oil (optional)

www.sparknaturals.com

Refreshing Citrus Toner

Toners can be an important (and easy to DIY) part of a natural skin care regimen! They work well and are a cinch to make. If you have naturally oily skin, try the toner below:

Refreshing Citrus Toner
-3 drops Cedarwood essential oil
-5 drops Lemongrass essential oil
-7 drops Grapefruit essential oil
-2 oz Spark Naturals Alcohol-Free Witch Hazel
-2 oz glass bottle

Directions: Place all essential oils in the bottle and fill the rest of the way with Witch Hazel. Shake well to combine and use after cleansing and before moisturizing skin.

Each ingredient has beneficial properties for oily, blemish-prone, and combination skin:
-Cedarwood: antiseptic, tonic, great for blemish-prone and oily skin
-Lemongrass: astringent, antiseptic, antibacterial, helpful for oily skin
-Grapefruit: detoxifying, disinfectant, wonderful for blemish-prone skin
-Witch Hazel: gentle astringent, removes excess oil without over-drying, perfect for oily-to-normal or combination skin

Get everything you need for this DIY project online!
www.sparknaturals.com

Balancing Diffuser Blend

Looking for something a little different to diffuse? Try this balancing diffuser blend with Clary Sage essential oil!

Balancing Diffuser Blend
-2 drops Lemon essential oil
-2 drops Clary Sage essential oil
-1 drop Ginger essential oil

www.sparknaturals.com

Lime Zen Diffuser Blend

One of my very favorite pre-made blends to diffuse is our Zen grounding blend. It smells DIVINE! During the day, I love to diffuse it with an uplifting citrus oil. Try the diffuser blend below!

Lime Zen Diffuser Blend
-3 drops Zen Grounding Blend
-3 drops Lime essential oil

Find your Zen today!
http://sparknaturals.com/index.php/eo-blends/zen-grounding-blend.html

DIY Tub Scrub Recipe

Be honest - is cleaning the bathtub a job you HATE? You are definitely not alone. Make it easier - and GREENER! - with this simple and refreshing DIY Tub Scrub:

DIY Tub Scrub
-1/2 c baking soda
-2 t castile soap of choice (I used Citrus Dr. Bronner's)
-5 drops LLP Allergy Blend (can sub Lavender, Melaleuca, Lemon, Grapefruit, Peppermint, or any combination)
-water

Directions:
Simply mix all ingredients together in a glass bowl or other wide-mouthed container and add enough water to make a thick paste. To use, scoop some onto a scrubbing brush and go at the soap scum or whatever nastiness lurks in your bathroom. Rinse with water and voila!

Why it works:
Baking soda is a natural abrasive, castile soap will help cut any grease hanging around, and the essential oils you select will enhance the process - our LLP blend is full of antimicrobial and grease-cutting properties, plus it smells great!

Melaleuca is also a fantastic choice for mold- or mildew-prone bathrooms as it will kill the organisms (you'll need some baking soda and peroxide to get the stains out, though!).

www.sparknaturals.com

Winter Diffuser Blend

This morning I'm cozied up inside and loving this winter diffuser blend:

Winter Diffuser Blend
-4 drops Wild Orange essential oil
-2 drops Clove Bud essential oil
-1 drop Juniper Berry essential oil

It is warming, uplifting, and refreshing!

www.sparknaturals.com

Pregnancy Massage Oil

QUICK TIP: Pregnancy & back pain

Pain can be a difficult thing during pregnancy, especially since many of our common ways of dealing with it are off limits. Massage can be especially pleasant during pregnancy while the body is bearing extra weight and changing shape.

If you're at home and have a willing partner, sit on a stool or backwards chair and rest your arms on a higher table or bed so your back is exposed and your body is comfortable and well-supported. Have them gently massage your lower back, concentrating on the hip and pelvis area or wherever you are sore.

Try this massage oil for nice "slip" and a bit of gentle aromatherapy during the massage:

Pregnancy Massage Oil
•4 drops Eucalyptus Radiata essential oil
•4 drops Sandalwood essential oil
•4 drops Tangerine essential oil
•4 drops Ylang Ylang essential oil
•4 drops Roman Chamomile essential oil
•1 oz Spark Naturals Sweet Almond Oil

Combine all EOs in a 1oz dropper with a dropper. Fill to top with carrier oil and use in a gentle massage as needed.

Always be sure to discuss essential oil usage with your care provider!

www.sparknaturals.com