I was born with a birth defect that caused permanent kidney damage. Doctors surgically re-implanted my ureters into my bladder, causing scar tissue to form. The scar tissue traps irritants and bacteria from the urine causing inflammation and infection. For twenty years I had 4 to 6 kidney infections every year. Antibiotics and sulfa drugs were the prescriptions of choice. No one ever discussed diet choices or natural therapies for support during that entire time.
Then one day it all came crashing down. I was extremely stressed out. I had taken on too much by working, going to school, taking care of a family and starting a business. I had a massive infection; the pain was excruciating. The doctors prescribed the strongest antibiotic I have ever had. By the time I was done with it I knew something was very wrong. The infection was not gone after 14 days of treatment and my skin had turned grey. I was extremely fatigued, my muscles were sore, my joints were stiff, I was deeply depressed and an emotional wreck.
The antibiotics had killed all the bacteria, even the good ones. This allowed candida to overgrow everywhere, literally everywhere. That is when I learned what candidiasis is. That is a whole different story though. After a three day fast on vegetable juice I was able to start over.
As I was resting and healing, I learned as much as I could about the causes of kidney infections. I found that acids and caffeine in the diet were the two main culprits of kidney inflammation. Excess sugar (glucose) in the blood also causes kidney irritation, which is common in diabetics. Any irritation can lead to infection, especially with the damage I already had.
So, I began using the herbal remedies I learned about from books and in college. I also, almost completely, worked sugar, coffee, tea, soda and caffeine out of my diet. I made many changes that would help to prevent this from happening again. Instead of coffee, tea, and soda I drink a chicory root based chai tea that is caffeine free. I began using honey instead of sugar in my herbal teas. Eliminating most of the processed foods from my diet went a long way in reducing the inflammation.
To help prevent an infection I found a variety of herbal remedies that are great for keeping the inflammation down and reducing the chance for infection. Of course, there is chamomile, the best herbal anti-inflammatory, unless you are allergic to it. Adding lavender can be calming and pain relieving. Dandelion assists in liver and kidney function and works as a gentle diuretic. Nettles reduces mucolytic inflammation and helps balance hormones.
To help stop an infection once it has started, I found herbal remedies that work much like antibiotics in the body. Except they do not kill all bacteria, instead they provide nutrients that support and improve immune function. This way the body can fight the infection in a natural process, instead of being forced to kill everything. Usnea is an amazing antibiotic that grows on trees in any moist area throughout North America, even in Colorado. Uva Ursi is a Native American remedy for blood in the urine. Thyme (Red or Spanish) as an oil or herb is a strong antibiotic that will kill just about anything that does not belong.
Every day I drink at least 120 ounces of water and 72 ounces of herbal tea with honey and milk. My herbal tea includes cinnamon, clove, cardamom, ginger, chicory, uva ursi, dandelion, passionflower, rose, jasmine and blessed thistle. I drink 8 ounces cranberry juice once a week. Just to keep my kidneys flowing and my bladder clear.
Every day I eat at least one raw salad of leaf lettuce, cabbage, kale, carrots, avocado and nuts or seeds with homemade or bottled dressing. Some days I eat sardines, tuna or salmon with one meal. I avoid packaged foods as much as possible, but I do eat fast food or restaurant food for two or three meals a week. Breakfast usually includes either bacon and eggs with whole grain organic toast or yogurt and walnuts, depending on how active I need to be for the day.
Every day I use my homemade body oil to moisturize and nourish my skin. This is simply a sunflower oil base with essential oils for healing inside and out. The essential oils I use include (in order of concentration) sweet orange, lavender, geranium, ylang ylang, myrtle, thyme, sage, nutmeg, rose and jasmine. This blends assists in balancing hormones, boosting immunity and preventing infection. I can make a blends just for you as I do for myself and my family. Contact me here.
Or shop for handmade products below.
Bath & Body Oils – 8oz Bottle
Add natural moisture and aroma to any bath. Simply pour and enjoy!
Every day I use CBD to also assist in relieving inflammation and pain. Cannabidiol has shown, through scientific research, its ability to nourish tissues, alleviate inflammation and reduce pain. CBD drops nourish from the inside and CBD vape is perfect for immediate pain relief. CBD lotions and skin care add additional nutrients not found in every day natural products. Get your American made CBD here.
I also use activity to help control my inflammation and reduce the pain. Yoga is huge for relieving pain by moving the fluids from the joints and tissues. Sweat producing weightlifting and aerobics are great for assisting the body in removing fluids and toxins. I use Tai Chi to help balance my emotions through self-control. Deep breathing and meditation practices help ease my mind and reduce mental inflammation.
Now whenever I have an infection, which are much fewer and farther apart thankfully, I take many different steps. First, I begin taking a two week regimen of Usnea and Uva Ursi capsules that I make at home and avoid any sugar. Then, I use specific yoga poses to tone the kidneys and assist in their function. I take warm mineral baths to assist in removing fluids and soothing pain. Much different than almost dying while taking antibiotics. I feel so much better, I have no words to describe how much better!
The cost difference is immense as well. I avoid costly doctors visits and expensive antibiotics, their side effects as well. Especially without health insurance. While maintaining improved health and wellness.
Other Names: Bourgeon Floral de Clou de Girofle, Bouton Floral de Clou de Girofle, Caryophylli Flos, Caryophyllum, Caryophyllus aromaticus, Clavo de Olor, Clous de Girolfe, Clove Flower, Clove Flowerbud, Clove Leaf, Clove Oil, Clove Stem, Cloves
Botany: The clove plant grows in warm climates and is cultivated commercially in Tanzania, Sumatra, the Maluku (Molucca) Islands, and South America. The tall evergreen plant grows up to 20 m and has leathery leaves. The strongly aromatic clove spice is the dried flower bud; essential oils are obtained from the buds, stems, and leaves. The dark brown buds are 12 to 22 mm in length and have 4 projecting calyx lobes. The 4 petals above the lobes fold over to form a hood, which hides numerous stamens. Synonyms are Eugenia caryophyllata , Eugenia caryophyllus , and Caryophyllus aromaticus .
Oil properties: Clove oil has a warm, strong, spicy smell and the oil is colorless to pale yellow with a medium to watery viscosity. It blends well with Allspice, basil, bay, bergamot, chamomile, clary sage, geranium, ginger, grapefruit, jasmine, lavender, lemon, mandarin, palmarosa, rose, sandalwood, vanilla, ylang ylang
Origin of clove oil: A native of Indonesia and the Malacca Islands, it is an evergreen tree that grows to about 10 meters (30 feet) tall and has bright green leaves and nail-shaped rose-peach flower buds which turn, upon drying, a deep red brown. These are beaten from the tree and dried. The Latin word ‘Clavus’ means nail shaped, referring to the bud. It was often used by the Greeks, Roman and the Chinese, to ease toothache and as a breath sweetener, especially when talking to the Emperor. It has antiseptic properties and was used in the prevention of contagious diseases, such as the Plaque. It was an important commodity in the spice trade and is still used in perfumes, mulled wines and liqueurs, love potions, dental products and, stuck in an orange as pomade, an insect repellant.
Extraction clove oil: Clove oil can be extracted from the leaves, stem and buds. We sell clove leaf oil, which is extracted by water distillation, containing the desired lower percentage of eugenol.
Chemical composition: The main chemical components of clove oil are eugenol, eugenol acetate, iso-eugenol and caryophyllene.
Scientific Facts About Clove: Clove is the dried bud of the flower from the tree Syzygium aromaticum. It belongs to the plant family named Myrtaceae. The plant is an evergreen plant growing in tropical and subtropical conditions. Clove is an herb and people use various parts of the plant, including the dried bud, stems, and leaves to make medicine. Clove oil is also famous for its medicinal properties. Clove has been used for thousands of years in India and China not only as a spice and condiment but also as a medicine for many ailments. Ayurvedic medicating used cloves for tooth decay, halitosis, and bad breath. In Chinese medicine, clove was considered to possess aphrodisiac properties.
Cloves Nutrition Facts: According to the National Nutrient Database for Standard Reference, the nutrients found in 100 grams of cloves include 65 grams of carbohydrate, 6 grams of protein, 13 grams of total lipids, 2 grams of sugars, 274 kcal of energy and 33 grams of dietary fibers. Minerals in cloves include calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphorous, potassium, sodium, and zinc. The vitamins found in them include vitamin C, thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, folate, vitamin B6, vitamin B12, vitamin A, vitamin E, vitamin D, and vitamin K.
Precautions: Clove oil is a very potent oil and should be used with care. If it is used in a oil, lotion or cream applied to the skin, the concentration should be well below 1%. It may cause irritation to the skin of some individuals and can easily irritate the mucus membranes. It should be avoided during pregnancy.
Clove oil can be used for acne, bruises, burns and cuts, keeping infection at bay and as a pain reliever. It helps with toothache, mouth sores, rheumatism and arthritis. It is beneficial to the digestive system, effective against vomiting, diarrhea, flatulence, spasms and parasites, as well as bad breath. Clove oil is valuable for relieving respiratory problems, like bronchitis, asthma and tuberculosis. The disinfecting property is useful in cases of infectious diseases. Placing a few drops of clove oil on a cotton ball and then placing the cotton ball in a linen cupboard will not only fragrance the cupboard, but will help to keep fish moths at bay.
Burners and vaporizers: In vapor therapy, clove oil can be useful for bronchitis and dizziness and to help lift depression, while strengthening memory and fighting weakness and lethargy.
Massage oil: Clove oil can be used in a blended massage oil to assist with diarrhea, bronchitis, chills, colds, muscular numbness, spasms, rheumatism and arthritis. For toothache the outer jaw can be massaged with this oil. Use a low dilution of less than 1%.
In cream or lotion: When used in a cream or lotion, the positive effects of clove oil are the same as those of a massage oil and can furthermore help to sort out leg ulcers and skin sores. Use in low dilution of less than 1%.
Mouthwash: Clove oil can be included at ahigh dilution as part of a mouthwash for toothache.
Health Benefits of Clove Bud
Better Digestion: Cloves improve digestion by stimulating the secretion of digestive enzymes. Cloves are also good for reducing flatulence, gastric irritability, dyspepsia, and nausea. They can be roasted, powdered, and taken with honey for relief in digestive disorders.
Antibacterial Properties: Cloves have been tested for their antibacterial properties against a number of human pathogens. The extracts of cloves were potent enough to kill those pathogens. Clove extracts are also effective against the specific bacteria that spread cholera.
Chemo-preventive Properties: Cloves are of interest to the medical community due to their chemo-preventive or anti-carcinogenic properties. Tests have shown that they are helpful in controlling lung cancer at its early stages.
Liver Protection: Cloves contain high amounts of antioxidants, which are ideal for protecting the organs from the effects of free radicals, especially the liver. Metabolism, in the long run, increases free radical production and lipid profile, while decreasing the antioxidants in the liver. Clove extracts are helpful in counteracting those effects with its hepatoprotective properties.
Diabetes Control: Cloves have been used in many traditional remedies for a number of diseases. One such disease is diabetes. In patients suffering from diabetes, the amount of insulin produced by the body is not sufficient or insulin is not produced at all. Studies have revealed that extracts from cloves imitate insulin in certain ways and help in controlling blood sugar levels.
Bone Preservation: The hydro-alcoholic extracts of cloves include phenolic compounds such as eugenol and its derivatives, such as flavones, isoflavones and flavonoids. These extracts have been particularly helpful in preserving bone density and the mineral content of bone, as well as increasing tensile strength of bones in case of osteoporosis.
Anti-mutagenic Properties: Mutagens are those chemicals that change the genetic makeup of the DNA by causing mutations. Biochemical compounds found in cloves, like phenylpropanoids, possess anti-mutagenic properties. These were administered on cells treated with mutagens and they were able to control the mutagenic effects to a significant rate.
Boosts the Immune System: Ayurveda describes certain plants to be effective in developing and protecting the immune system. One such plant is clove. The dried flower bud of clove contains compounds that help in improving the immune system by increasing the white blood cell count, thereby, improving delayed-type hypersensitivity.
Anti-inflammatory Properties: Cloves possess anti-inflammatory and pain-killing properties. Studies on clove extracts being administered in lab rats, suggest that the presence of eugenol reduced the inflammation caused by edema. It was also confirmed that eugenol has the ability to reduce pain by stimulating pain receptors.
Cure for Oral Diseases: Cloves can be taken for gum diseases like gingivitis and periodontitis. Clove bud extracts significantly control the growth of oral pathogens, which are responsible for various oral diseases. Cloves can also be used for toothaches due to their pain-killing properties.
Aphrodisiac Properties: Spices such as clove and nutmeg have been said to possess aphrodisiac properties, according to Unani medicine. Experiments on clove and nutmeg extracts were tested against standard drugs administered for that reason, and both clove and nutmeg showed positive results.
Cure for Headaches: Headaches can be reduced by using cloves. Make a paste of a few cloves and mix it with a dash of rock salt. Add this to a glass of milk. This mixture reduces headaches quickly and effectively.
Anal fissures. Early research suggests that applying a clove oil cream to anal fissures for 6 weeks improves healing compared to using stool softeners and applying lignocaine cream.
Dental plaque. Early research suggests that using a specific toothpaste (Sudantha, Link Natural Products Ltd.) containing a combination of clove, Acacia chundra Willd., malabar nut, bullet wood tree, black pepper, Indian beech, gall oak, Terminalia, and ginger twice daily for 12 weeks can reduce dental plaque, bleeding, and amount of bacteria in the mouth.
Mosquito repellent. Early research suggests that applying clove oil or clove oil gel to the skin can repel mosquitos for up to 5 hours.
Pain. Early research suggests that applying a gel containing ground cloves for 5 minutes before being stuck with a needle can reduce needle stick pain similarly to benzocaine.
Premature ejaculation. Research shows that applying a cream containing clove flower plus Panax ginseng root, Angelica root, Cistanches deserticola, Zanthoxyl species, Torlidis seed, Asiasari root, cinnamon bark, and toad venom (SS Cream) to the skin of the penis improves premature ejaculation.
Toothache. Clove oil and eugenol, one of the chemicals it contains, have long been used topically for toothache, but the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has reclassified eugenol, downgrading its effectiveness rating. The FDA now believes there is not enough evidence to rate eugenol as effective for toothache pain. “Dry socket” following tooth extraction.
Side Effects Of Using Clove
Clove Oil: Clove oils must not be used directly; instead they must be diluted either in olive oil or in distilled water. Clove extract oil is generally considered to be safe, but certain studies have revealed that they possess cytotoxic properties. There are two major components present in clove extract oil, eugenol, and B-caryophyllene. These compounds were particularly effective against fibroblasts and endothelial cells.
Clove Cigarettes: In Indonesia, cloves are consumed on a large scale in the form of cigarettes, popularly known as kreteks. These clove cigarettes have emerged as an alternative to tobacco cigarettes, but research shows that clove cigarettes are actually worse than conventional cigarettes. In the case of clove cigarettes, the amount of nicotine, carbon monoxide, and tar entering into the lungs was higher than that from normal tobacco cigarettes.
Note These Contraindications for the Use of Clove Oil
Keep in mind that the oil of cloves should be used moderately. Because of the high content of eugenol, excessive use may cause nausea, vomiting and blood problems. Other contraindications for this essential oil include the following:
• Phototoxicity. Do not use this oil before going out into direct sunlight, as it can lead to severe burns and other skin problems.
• Aspirin or anticoagulant medications. Clove bud oil can slow down platelet activity, which can interfere with these medications and cause adverse effects.
• Allergic reactions. Topically applying clove bud oil on damaged skin may cause severe allergic reactions and can further damage the skin.
Recipes
Clove and Cinnamon Tea
1 1/2 cup water
1 clove, crushed
1 pinch cinnamon
3/4 teaspoon tea leaves
1 teaspoon honey
1 teaspoon raw milk, optional
Cooking Directions:
Boil water, cloves and cinnamon powder.
Cover the pot with a tight lid to retain flavors.
Boil for about two minutes.
Lower the heat and add the tea leaves.
Remove from heat and let stand for a few minutes or until it is drinkable.
Add the honey and milk. Serve.
World’s Greatest Vegetable Broth
1 pound celery
1 1/2 pound sweet onions
1 pound carrots, cut into 1-inch pieces
1 pound tomatoes, cored
1 pound green bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
1/2 pound turnips, cubed
2 tablespoons coconut oil
3 cloves garlic
3 whole cloves
1 bay leaf
6 whole black peppercorns
1 bunch fresh parsley, chopped
1 gallon water
Cooking Directions:
Preheat oven to 450 degrees Fahrenheit.
Remove leaves and tender inner parts of celery. Set aside.
Toss onions, carrots, tomatoes, bell peppers and turnips with coconut oil. Place vegetables in a roasting pan and place them in the oven. Stir the vegetable every 15 minutes. Cook until all of the vegetables have browned and the onions start to caramelize. This takes about an hour.
Put the browned vegetables, celery, garlic, cloves, bay leaf, peppercorns, parsley and water into a stock pot. Bring to a full boil. Reduce the heat to simmer. Cook uncovered until liquid is reduced in half.
Pour the broth through a colander, catching the broth in a large bowl or pot. The broth can be use immediately in other dishes or frozen for future use.
How to Make Infused Clove Oil
4 fresh clove buds, crushed
Carrier oil, such as coconut oil
Strainer
Glass container with spout
Airtight bottleneck jar
Procedure:
Take the airtight jar and place the four crushed cloves at the bottom. Crush them thoroughly so that they can fit into the container.
Fill the jar with the carrier oil until the cloves are submerged, but not too much to overfill the container.
Seal the container tightly. Exposure to air can affect the oil’s potency.
Set aside the mixture for a week in an area where it can be exposed to sunlight.
Transfer the mixture into the glass container with a spout. Use the strainer to remove any sediment. Do not hesitate to strain the oil a couple of times to make sure particles are completely removed.
Dispose of the cloves from the strainer and do not reuse these cloves, as doing so can impact the effectiveness of the oil.
The strained mixture should be poured back into the airtight bottleneck container.
When storing, make sure the oil of is sealed tight. Shelf life can last from four to five years. Color may darken as time progresses.
Citronella
oil
is extracted from Cymbopogon nardus (also known as Andropogon nardus) and is of
the Graminae (Poaceae) family. It is also known as Sri Lanka or Lenabatu
citronella. The oil is used extensively as a source of perfumery chemicals such
as citronellal, citronellol, and geraniol. These chemicals find extensive use
in soap, candles and incense, perfumery, cosmetic, and flavoring industries
throughout the world. Citronella oil is also a plant-based insect repellent and
has been registered for this use in the United States since 1948. The United
States Environmental Protection Agency considers oil of citronella as a
biopesticide with a non-toxic mode of action.
Oil
properties: Citronella oil has a slightly sweet, lemony
smell. It blends well with bergamot, geranium, lemon, orange, lavender and
pine.
Extraction
citronella oil: Citronella oil is extracted by the steam
distillation of finely chopped fresh, dried or part-dried grass.
Chemical
composition: The main chemical components of citronella
oil are citronellic acid, borneol, citronellol, geraniol, nerol, citral,
citronellal, camphene, dipentene and limonene. Major constituents of the oil
were geraniol (35.7% of total volatiles), trans-citral (22.7%), cis-citral
(14.2%), geranyl acetate (9.7%), citronellal (5.8%) and citronellol (4.6%). The
antifungal assay using the vapor-agar contact method showed that the crude
essential oil markedly suppressed the growth of several species of Aspergillus,
Penicillium and Eurotium at a dose of 250 mg/L in air. Citronellal and linalool
completely inhibited the growth of all tested fungal strains at a dose of 112
mg/L. Their minimum inhibitory doses ranged from 14 to 56 mg/L. The α- and β-
pinenes showed an inhibitory activity against some fungi, whereas the other 8
volatile compounds lacked this property.
Precautions:
Citronella
oil may irritate sensitive skin and cause dermatitis in certain individuals.
Therapeutic
properties: The health benefits of Citronella Essential
Oil can be attributed to its properties as an antibacterial, antidepressant,
antiseptic, antispasmodic, anti-inflammatory, deodorant, diaphoretic, diuretic,
febrifuge, fungicidal, insect repellent, stomachic, stimulant, tonic and
vermifuge substance. Citronella oil has strong antifungal properties, and is
effective in calming barking dogs.
Citronella oil’s most useful quality is that
of it being an insect repellent. It is best used in a spray, a diffuser or on a
cotton ball amongst linen. It is also useful in ridding cats and dogs of fleas.
Furthermore, citronella oil helps to clear
the mind and has a general toning and tonic effect on the body. It is helpful
with colds, flu and minor infections, and has deodorizing qualities.
Citronella has been proven as an effective
antimicrobial for aquatic animals, thus naturally supporting our aquaculture
needs. Essential oil of C. nardus demonstrated its potential as alternative to
commercial antibacterial agent.
Origin
of citronella oil: It is extracted from a hardy grass, native to
Sri Lanka and Java. This aromatic perennial grows about 1meter (3 feet) high
and is a popular ingredient in wax candles, as an insect repellant, and is also
widely used in perfumes, soaps, skin lotions and deodorants. The essential oil
of citronella is extracted from two varieties of citronella. The first one is
the Ceylon variety, whose scientific name is Cymbopogon nardus and the second
one is Java variety, called Cymbopogon winterianus in botanical terminology. In
both cases, the essential oil is extracted by steam distillation of the fresh
plant.
Benefits
Of Citronella Essential Oil
Inhibits
Bacterial Growth: Components like methyl isoeugenol and a few
others that are found in this essential oil are responsible for this property.
They kill bacteria and inhibit any further bacterial growth in the body. This
is particularly helpful in treating infections in wounds, as well as in the
colon, urethra, urinary bladder, stomach, intestines, urinary tracts, prostate,
and kidneys.
Fights
Depression: This oil fights depression and gives relief
from anxiety, sadness, and negative feelings. It induces a fresh, happy feeling
and hope.
Relaxant
and Stress Reducer: Commonly used to control emotions in
aromatherapy, it can help relax your mind and contribute to reduced stress
reactions and better sleep for people who can’t sleep. Try diffusing citronella
oil in your home, massaging it into skin or spraying it onto your bed sheets.
Eliminates
Infections: The antiseptic properties of this essential
oil fight infections in wounds, as well as the urinary tracts, urethra,
prostate, and kidneys, while simultaneously protecting them from being sepsis.
Relieves
Spasms: It relieves spasms of the muscles, respiratory system,
and nervous system. It also helps to cure menstrual spasms and gives relief
from symptoms such as cramps and coughs. When it comes to dealing with cramps,
swelling and pain, citronella can help improve blood flow that lowers muscle
spasms and tenderness. Try massaging citronella oil mixed with a carrier into
sore muscles or onto the abdomen when dealing with PMS cramps.
Anti-inflammatory
Properties: Citronella essential oil sedates
inflammation, particularly those situations which pertain to the liver,
stomach, intestines and other parts of the digestive system. The inflammations
caused as side effects of drugs, excessive use of alcohol or narcotics, hard
& spicy food, any disease, or any toxic element getting into the body can
also be alleviated using this oil.
Removes
Bad Odor: The crisp, rich citrus or lemon-like aroma of this oil
drives away body odor and is used in deodorants and body sprays, although in
very small quantities, since in heavy doses it may create skin irritations. It
can also be mixed with the bath water to have a refreshing bath.
Eliminates
Toxins: The diaphoretic properties of this essential oil increase
sweating and promote the removal of toxins and other unwanted materials like
excess water, fat, and salts from the body. This makes the body feel lighter,
keeps the skin healthy and also reduces fever. This also protects you from
certain infections.
Stimulates
Urination: The increase in the frequency and quantity of
urination due to this property of citronella essential oil has many benefits.
It disposes of waste substances and toxins from the body, including uric acid,
excess bile, acids, and salts, as well as water and fats. This helps reduce
weight, eliminate infections in the urinary system, free the body from toxins,
reduce chances of renal calculi, rheumatism, and arthritis, improve digestion,
and keep the heart healthy.
Reduces
Fever: While the diaphoretic property of this oil increases
perspiration, its anti-inflammatory property reduces inflammation, while the
antimicrobial property fights infections. The combined effects of these three
properties fight fever and reduce body temperature.
Inhibits
Fungal Growth: This oil kills fungus and inhibits fungal
growth. This is very useful in countering fungal infections in the ear, nose
and throat region. Contracting fungal infections in the ears are very common
and can be very serious. It eliminates fungal infections in other parts of the
body as well and helps cure fungal dysentery.
Insect
Repellant: This is one of the most commonly used
properties of this essential oil, as it kills and keeps away insects. It has
been found particularly effective on a species of mosquito, called Aedes
aegypti whose bite causes the dreaded yellow fever. This is also effective on
lice, body and head louse, and fleas.
Prevents
Stomach Disorders: The use of this oil clears the stomach from
infections and other problems and helps it function properly.
Natural
Skin Care Remedy: Aside from keeping away bug bites, research
shows citronella can also help heal dermatitis, naturally treat eczema, slow
skin aging, heal bug bite scars and treat some fungal infections on the skin.
It enhances penetration of skin and speeds up wound healing, which might be
beneficial for remedying acne, getting rid of warts, treating boils and healing
age spots. It can also help skin appear youthful and smoother and even block
damage done from sun exposure. Add a very small amount to coconut oil and
massage it into the face, or try adding one to two drops to your shower or
facial wash. As an easy-to-make home remedy for acne, try dabbing one drop of
pure citronella essential oil on blemishes three times a day, but make sure you
use a sterile cotton swab.
Pet
Controller: Although it might sound strange, citronella
oil is effective in calming barking dogs and can even be used on furniture to
help keep your pets off. As a bonus, when you spray citronella on your
furniture or linens, it keeps them free from bacteria, pests and odors. Add
several drops to a spray bottle along with water, shake it up, and spray it
throughout your home and on household items.
Natural
Shampoo and Conditioner: One of the most popular uses for
citronella oil is cleansing and conditioning the hair and scalp. It can help
eliminate excess oil and greasiness of hair while also fighting dandruff and
adding shine. Many people find it adds volume to hair, detangles knots and
helps protect hair color from sun damage. Add several drops to your shampoo or
conditioner, or try making your own homemade recipe using a cleansing oil like
coconut oil, which also benefits hair.
Homemade
Citronella Oil Bug Spray Recipe
INGREDIENTS:
1/2 cup witch hazel
1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
40 drops mixed essential oils (citronella, eucalyptus, lemongrass, tea tree or rosemary)
glass spray bottle
DIRECTIONS: Mix all ingredients in eight-ounce spray
bottle. Spray over all portions of the body, but avoid repellent in eyes and
mouth.
Find Cinnamon leaf oil in Mother Jai’s Aroma Sprays and many other truly natural products. Petroleum and artificial preservative free! We ONLY use all natural and American made Everclear as an emulsifier and preservative!
Learn more about Cinnamon Leaf essential oil below.
Aroma Spray – 8oz Spray
Water based sprays with 5% essential oils for personal Aromatherapy.
Cinnamon leaf oil comes from Cinnamonum verum (also
called Laurus cinnamomum) from the Laurel (Lauraceae) plant family. This small
and bushy evergreen tree is native to Sri Lanka, but now grows in many countries
such as India, China, Bangladesh, Myanmar, and Indonesia. There are actually
over 100 varieties of C. verum, with Cinnamonum zeylanicum (Ceylon cinnamon)
and Cinnamomun aromaticum (Chinese cinnamon) as the most consumed.
Cinnamon bark oil is extracted from the outer bark of the
tree, resulting in a potent, perfume-quality essential oil. Cinnamon bark oil
is extremely refined and therefore very expensive for everyday use, which is
why many people settle for cinnamon leaf oil, as it’s lighter, cheaper, and
ideal for regular use. Cinnamon leaf oil has a musky and spicy scent, and a
light yellow tinge that distinguishes it from the red-brown color of cinnamon
bark oil.
Composition
of Cinnamon Leaf Oil
The oil extracted from cinnamon leaves contain phenols
and beneficial components like eugenol, eugenol acetate, cinnamic aldehyde,
linalool, and benzyl benzoate. It also has low levels of cinnamaldehyde, an
excellent flavoring agent and the active component that helps repel mosquitoes
and other insects. The leaf oil has a higher eugenol content then the bark oil,
which increases its analgesic properties.
Blending:
This oil blends well with various essential oils, so it is added to many
aromatherapy preparations. It enhances the effectiveness of other herbs and
essential oils, thus speeding up the treatment of various herbal remedies.
Furthermore, many herbs can have an unpleasant taste. Cinnamon or cinnamon oil
is often added to herbal preparations to make them taste better.
Uses
of Cinnamon Leaf Oil
Cinnamon leaf oil can be used as an additive in soaps and
a flavoring to seasonings. When used in aromatherapy – diffused, applied
topically (I recommend diluting with a mild essential oil or mixing in your
favorite cream, lotion, or shampoo), or added to your bath water – it can have
health-promoting effects. Here are some ways to use cinnamon leaf oil for your
health and around your home:
Use
it as a disinfectant. With its strong germicidal properties,
cinnamon leaf oil works as a non-toxic natural disinfectant. Use it to clean
your toilets, refrigerator, kitchen counters and other surfaces, door knobs,
microwave, and sneakers. You can even use it to clean and disinfect your
chopping boards.
Make
a facial scrub. Mix it with cinnamon sugar, orange juice,
and olive oil to create a rejuvenating scrub that has antiseptic properties to
help kill facial bacteria effectively.
Gargle
as a mouthwash. Add a drop or two to a glass of purified
water, and gargle with it. For people with dentures, simply make a solution of
water, hydrogen peroxide, and cinnamon leaf oil, and soak your dentures in it.
Add
it to your foot soak. Mix a drop of cinnamon leaf oil in a bucket
of warm water, and then soak your feet in it. This works great for athletes and
people who wear closed shoes for most of the day.
Use
cinnamon leaf oil as an insect repellent. Did you know that
the scent of cinnamon leaf oil can deter pesky household insects, such as black
ants, mosquitoes, roaches, and flies? Studies found that it may even be more
effective at repelling mosquitoes than the toxic chemical DEET. Simply spray or
diffuse the oil around your home. You can also spray it over your mattresses
and sheets to get rid of bed bugs.
Add
it to your shampoo. Add a drop of cinnamon leaf oil to your
regular non-chemical shampoo. This will help keep your hair healthy and, in
children, help kill stubborn head lice.
Instead
of fabric softener. Add a few drops of the oil to wool laundry
drying balls. As the balls mingle and fluff damp fabric in the dryer, the scent
is transferred. I love adding essential oils when laundering bedding or towels.
Warmer
diffusion. Mix a tablespoon of pure coconut oil with two to three
drops of cinnamon essential oil, and place it in a wax warmer. As the coconut
oil melts, the essential oil scent is released into the air.
Clean
better. Place a few drops of cinnamon oil in a homemade
cleanser. As you wipe down surfaces, the oil leaves behind a nontoxic scent
that some studies claim may help reduce bacteria growth. You can read these and
decide for yourself in Public Library of Science (PLoS) ONE and Food Control.
Relax
in the bath. Place a few drops of oil in your bath water.
As you soak, the aroma fills your bathroom and creates a calm feeling.
Sleep
Better. Put one drop of cinnamon essential oil on the back of
your pillowcase to promote restful sleep.
Mix a drop or two of cinnamon oil into massage oil before
indulging.
Side
Effects of Cinnamon Leaf Oil
Use cinnamon oil in moderation and properly diluted, as
high dosages may lead to convulsions in some individuals. This oil may also
lead to side effects such as skin irritation, mouth sores, dizziness, vomiting,
and diarrhea. It may irritate your urinary tract, intestines, and stomach
lining, if taken internally. If these symptoms occur, consult a healthcare
practitioner immediately.
Very high quantities of cassia cinnamon may be toxic,
particularly in people with liver problems. Because cinnamon may lower blood
sugar, people with diabetes may need to adjust their treatment if they use
cinnamon supplements. An ingredient in some cinnamon products, coumarin, may
cause liver problems; but the amount of this compound ingested is usually so
small that this wouldn’t happen for most people.
If you take any medication regularly, talk to your doctor
before you start using cinnamon supplements. They could interact with
antibiotics, diabetes drugs, blood thinners, heart medicines, and others.
Word of Caution: Being strong in nature, cinnamon oil should be avoided for internal consumption. Furthermore, it can have adverse effects on the skin if used topically in concentrated form. Therefore, it should be used in diluted form. Before using the oil, it should be tested to make sure it suits your skin. You should apply only a small quantity of the oil initially and check if you develop an allergic reaction. Do not apply the oil to the face and other sensitive areas.
