Kokokahn Aromatherapy

Knowing Your Essential Oils

2012-02-08T12:53:00.000-08:00

Are all essentials oils of equal quality? How do we gain the greatest therapeuticbenefits? How can we know if they are ofthe highest quality?

Not allessential oils on the market are of equal quality. Some have been adultered with syntheticchemicals. Just because a label says it is a"pure," "organic" essential oil does not qualify it to be apure, high quality essential oil.

Here are afew things to look for when purchasing essential oils.

* The latinname, common name and country of origin should be on the bottle.

* If you see“fragrance oil” or “perfume oil” on the label, they are generally syntheticoils and not pure essential oils.

* Essentialoils that are GC/MS tested

What isGC/MS testing?

Gas Chromatography/Mass Spectrometry is the full name forGC/MS. It’s a test that gives thechemistry of an essential oil. Thiswould show if there are any adulterants such as synthetic fragrance oils and isvital in helping us determine if an essential oil is pure and of excellentquality.

Here atKOKOKAHN it is important to us that our customers are assured of the purest andhighest quality essential oils for therapeutic benefits. So, all of our oils come only fromdistilleries that provide GC/MS reports of the essential oils we buy. And we do our own spot testing through alocal chemist.

PURITY &QUALITY

Without ityour essential oil becomes little more than a perfume. Withit, your essential oil offers physical, emotional andspiritual healing. And KOKOKAHN is mostdefinitely one company that offers high quality essential oils.

If you wishto Shop Now – Kokokahn Essential Oils Shopping Page

Clay Face Mask

2012-01-13T06:13:00.000-08:00

With all the cleansing and detoxing that the New Year brings, clay face masks are a great way to detox the skin. They are best used for cleaning out the pores and deep cleaning the skin. French Green Clay has amazing absorbing properties and sucks toxins, oils and impurities from the skin. Rhassoul Clay, or Morrocan Red Clay, is high in minerals and helps improve skin clarity, elasticity, and texture.

Essential oils good for aging skin include Frankincense and Lavender. Frankincense is moisturizing and good for wrinkles. Lavender is balancing, moisturizing and good for sun damaged skin.

Aloe Gel and Witch Hazel ~ Aloe gel is cooling and soothing for all skin types and a great addition to any skin care product. Witch hazel is astringent and helps to tone and tighten pores.

I like to use a clay face mask once or twice a week. It's a spa-like experience and I recommend laying down while it dries to fully experience the relaxation that comes with it.

Check out our face mask here with all these wonderful ingredients.

Peppermint Essential Oil

2011-12-07T03:38:00.001-08:00

Peppermint is bright and uplifting and perfect for creating holiday aromas in the home. Peppermint essential oil comes from the leaves of the plant. It also has some amazing health benefits that I thought was a good time to share with you.

Pain Relief
Peppermint is a mild pain reliever and good for acute injuries like sprains and muscle aches and pains. Add 5 to 6 drops to an ounce of oil like jojoba or olive oil and apply regularly.
Headaches
With it's pain relieving properties it is also good for headaches. Put a drop on a cotton ball and inhale deeply.
Congestion & Respiratory Support
The majority of Peppermint is made up of menthol which helps to open breathing airways and break up congestion. Add 5 to 6 drops to an ounce of carrier oil and rub on your chest and neck in the morning or during the day.
Energizing
Peppermint uplifts and gets you going. Diffuse in the morning or during the day to keep you energized and productive.
Concentration & Focus
I like to take a few deep breaths of Peppermint on a cotton ball before diving into a project that I need to focus on. Also great to diffuse in the room your working in.
Upset Tummies
One of my favorite ways to use Peppermint! Add 5-6 drops Peppermint to an ounce of lotion and rub on your tummy when you're tummy is upset. I feel better within 5 minutes.

Some Safety Considerations:
Peppermint can be skin irritating, so I don't recommend bathing in it or using it undiluted on the skin. If you have sensitive skin do a patch test with one of the recipes above on the inside of your arm and wait 20 minutes to see if you have a reaction. Peppermint is also not recommended for pregnant women or children under the age of 5 as it can be too stimulating for them. It can also antidote homeopathic remedies, so best to avoid Peppermint if you are taking them.

How do you use Peppermint? What memories do you have of Peppermint?

Essential Oils for Immune Support

2011-11-02T18:48:00.000-07:00

With Cold & Flu season knocking on the door, I thought it was a good time to share essential oils that support our immune systems. There are three chemical components that come to mind for immune support. Linalol, Terpinen 4-ol and Limonene. All of these encourage white blood cell growth. The picture here is of Thyme linalol.

Essential Oils High in Linalol:

Lavender

Thyme ~ chemotype linalol

Sweet Basil

Essential Oils High in Limonene:

Citrus oils in general are high in Limonene

* Orange & Tangerine are two of the highest with 90% or more

Essential Oils High in Terpinen 4-ol

Tea Tree

We have an Immune Support Blend with Basil, Thyme, Lavender and Tea Tree. A great way to use it or any of the essential oils above for immune support is to steam with them. Get a soup or cereal bowl, add 1 drop essential oil and pour steaming water over it. Put a towel over your head and steam for 2 to 5 minutes.

Immune Support Chest Rub Recipe:

5 drops Tangerine

1 drop Basil

4 drops Lavender

1 ounce carrier oil like Jojoba Oil or Olive Oil

Rub on your chest once or twice a day.

How do you support your immune system during the winter? Have you ever used thyme or basil essential oils?

Tangerine Oil

2011-10-12T02:57:00.000-07:00

Tangerines remind me of Fall in Japan. They are called mikan in Japanese and are abundant in the fall. Every gathering I went to from September thru the Winter included a bowl of tangerines.

Tangerine is one of my new favorite essential oils. It has a brighter more pungent aroma than orange and smells like fresh peeled tangerines. The latin name is Citrus reticulata with some production in the United States.

Tangerine's Health Benefits:

* Uplifting & Energizing
* Good for Depression -
A Don't Worry, Be Happy Oil
* Good for Digestion
* Antibacterial & Antiviral
* Astringent
* Antiseptic
* Good for Oily Skin and Acne

Suggestions for using Tangerine:

* Add 8-10 drops to 1 ounce lotion and use to soothe upset tummies.

* Add 5 drops to an aromatherapy diffuser and cheer up the home.

* Add 1 drop to a cotton ball and put in the air vent of your car.
* Put 2 drops on the inside of your toilet paper roll to freshen up the bathroom.

Safety Consideration....
Tangerine can be phototoxic causing burning if applied to the skin before going in the sun. Wait 12 hours before exposing skin to the sun if you have applied tangerine.

Links to Learn More....

AromaWeb

Links to Buy....

Tangerine Essential Oil

Aromatherapy Diffuser

What's your favorite essential oil? How would you use Tangerine oil?

Black Spruce Essential Oil

2011-09-22T04:26:00.000-07:00

Black Spruce's botanical name is Picea maraiana. The oil comes from the needles of the tree. It is only distilled in Canada but I have seen the trees in the Northern part of America near Minneapolis. The aroma is one of my favorite's of all the confiers. Reminiscent of Christmas trees and the holidays I find many people adore the smell.

Therapeutically it is wonderful for respiratory support and fatigue. It uplifts and helps fight fatigue by supporting the adrenal glands. It is good for asthma and dry throat conditions helping to soothe a dry, scratchy cough.

Suggestions for using Black Spruce:

Add 10-12 drops to 1 ounce lotion and apply to lower abdomen and back daily to support adrenal glands and combat fatigue.

Add 1 drop to a bowl of hot water and steam for 2-5 minutes to relieve coughs and dry throats.

Add 10 drops to old holiday potpourri to refresh and make your home smell like Christmas trees.

For more information on Black Spruce visit our website here.

How would you use Black Spruce? What essential oils do you use for respiratory support?

Tea Tree Essential Oil

2011-08-10T07:26:00.000-07:00

I've been exploring video lately and wanted to share my latest on Tea Tree Essential Oil with you. The focus is on the health benefits of Tea Tree with suggestions on how you can use it in your daily life.

Jojoba Oil Benefits

2011-08-03T05:10:00.000-07:00

Jojoba oil has many skin benefits and is a popular choice for aromatherapy for many reasons. Scientifically jojoba oil is a wax not a vegetable oil giving it an indefinite shelf life and resistance to heat and sunlight. This is one of the reasons I love to use it in product formulations. When purchasing jojoba oil always make sure to get a cold pressed, unrefined oil. It should be a bright golden color. A pale color indicates refining and many of the benefits listed here would be compromised. Here's a list of some of it's benefits.

Good for softening skin and restoring elasticity
A great conditioner for your hair and scalp
Safe and effective for facial skin care
Safe and gentle for babies
Provides relief for psoriasis
Most closely resembles our own skin's sebum or oil
Absorbs quickly helping to deliver the essential oils to your bloodstream and cells
Doesn't stain sheets or linens

We carry five Massage and Body Oils all formulated with cold pressed, unrefined and pesticide free Jojoba Oil. Stress Relief, Emotional Balance, Dream Time, Vanilla and Immune Support.

Breathe Essential Oil Blend

2011-07-11T10:06:00.000-07:00

Do you get congested from allergies, sinuses or colds? There are many essential oils that can help break up congestion while supporting your respiratory system. Our Breathe blend includes some of these respiratory loving essential oils. Peppermint, eucalyptus, rosemary, black spruce and spike lavender open up breathing and support respiratory health and make up our Breathe Essential Oil blend. It is available in a 10ml bottle or as an aromatherapy inhaler. Here are some suggestions for the many ways you can use the essential oil blend.

Put a drop in the shower
Put a drop on a cotton ball and inhale
Diffuse in the home
Put a drop in a bowl and pour steaming water over it. Put a towel over your head and steam for 2-5 minutes
Refill your aromatherapy inhaler - there is a cap on the bottom of the inhaler, use a butter knife or your finger nail to pop it off. Then add 10-15 drops of the Breathe Essential Oil blend. Recap and your good to go for another 2 to 3 months!

Peppermint, eucalyptus, rosemary, black spruce and spike lavender are stimulating and energizing oils. Peppermint and rosemary are also great for concentration and focus.

Safety Note: This blend is not recommended for children under 5. It is also not recommended for women during pregnancy.

Lemongrass Essential Oil

2011-05-31T14:30:00.000-07:00

Refreshing, uplifting and revitalizing are all words that immediately come to mind when I think of Lemongrass. It's star therapeutic qualities are it's anti fungal properties and pain relieving effects. Lemongrass is also good for concentration, jet lag and for use in home cleaning products. It leaves a fresh, summery aroma that lingers in the air. Here are some suggestions for ways to use Lemongrass.

Add 2 to 3 drops to your vacuum bag or filter
Add 5-6 drops to a foot bath to soothe achy feet and fight athletes foot
Put a few drops in your aromatherapy diffuser to freshen your home
Add 8 drops Lemongrass and 7 drops Tea Tree to 1 ounce aloe gel to help combat athletes feet
Put a drop on a cotton ball and inhale to help you focus and concentrate

A note of caution with Lemongrass essential oil, it can be skin irritating so it's best to use it diluted in water, oil or lotion.

If you would like to read more about Lemongrass essential oil, here's a blog I recommend.

The Essential Oil Database: Lemongrass

To purchase Lemongrass essential oil on Kokokahn's website, click Here.

Ylang Ylang Essential Oil

2011-05-04T12:04:00.000-07:00

Ylang ylang is indigenous to the Philippines and is one of my favorite essential oils. It is a beautiful exotic plant with a deep, exotic floral aroma.

Top Health Benefits of Ylang Ylang

Excellent sleep aide
Good for high blood pressure
Great for anxiety
Great aphrodisiac
Good for dry, aging skin

Ways to use Ylang Ylang

Add 1 drop to your pillow or bedsheets ~ ylang ylang helps you fall asleep faster and more importantly, have a deeper more restful sleep. I find a lot of men like ylang ylang for sleep too.
Add 1 drop to your bedsheets to spice up the bedroom and encourage romance.
Add 4 drops ylang ylang to 1 ounce of your favorite face moisturizer.
Put 1 drop ylang ylang on a cotton ball and inhale deeply to ease feelings of anxiety and panic.

We sell a beautiful ylang ylang on our website here. It is from Comores, a West African island nation.

Other recommended articles on Ylang ylang:

Aromaweb

More great info on ylang ylang

Have you used Ylang Ylang essential oil? How do you encourage sleep? What are some of your favorite essential oils?

Himalayan Salt Lamps

2011-04-05T06:07:00.000-07:00

Himalayan salt is considered the purest salt in the world coming from the Himalayan mountains where there is hardly any pollution. They are hand mined instead of dynamite blasted contributing further to their purity. Each lamp is unique and no two are alike. They contain 84 minerals and elements like potassium, calcium and iron. One of the qualities I love most is their beautiful pink colors. These colors are created naturally due to their high mineral and iron content.

Salt Lamp Health Benefits:

Reduces indoor pollutants
Relieves sinus and allergy symptoms
Supports respiratory well being
Boosts your immune system
Helps maintain natural air quality
Absorbs pet and other odors
Brings serenity and calmness

They come in a variety of sizes. Sizes are based on weight. Small is best for 10x10 spaces, medium for 12x15 spaces and large for 20x20 spaces. The key to receiving their health benefits is to leave them turned on all the time. When they heat up they release negative ions in the air. They run on a 15 watt bulb that is easy to replace when it burns out. One thing to be aware of is they absorb everything, including water. So, it's best not to put them outside or near a water source. If you turn them off they may release some of the water they absorb, so be sure to put them on a table that won't be damaged.

Please visit our website to purchase your own Himalayan Salt Lamp.

Cleaning with Essential Oils

2011-03-10T05:21:00.000-08:00

With Spring just around the corner I thought it would be a good time to share some recipes and tips on cleaning your home naturally with essential oils. The EPA has found most homes are 5 to 10 times more toxic than the outside air. This is mostly due to all the chemical cleaners in our home. Most essential oils support our immune systems. They are better for the environment and help you save money too. Citrus oils are a good start because they are highly antibacterial and antiviral. Peppermint is one of my favorites to use in cleaning products because it hangs out and gives a bright and uplifting aroma in the home. Peppermint and vinegar are antiseptic too.

Here are some tried and true recipes that I have used for years.

Cleansing Scrub:

Good replacement for comet or other abrasive cleaners. Works great on stoves, ovens, bath tubs, toilets, showers & tile.

1 1/2 C. Baking Soda

7 T. Castille Soap

3 T. Vinegar

70 drops Essential Oil

Carpet Freshner:

1 1/2 C. Baking Soda

40-50 drops essential oil

Spinkle on carpet. Leave for 30 minutes, then vacuum.

All Purpose Cleaner:

Good for mopping floors, cleaning counter tops and sinks.

16oz distilled water

2 T. Vinegar

40 drops essential oil

Window Cleaner:

16oz distilled water

2 T. Vinegar

1 t. cornstarch

You can pick up a spray bottle for a buck at most discount stores like Walmart or Big Lots. Most places sell baking soda in bulk now too in the pool section. Orange, Lemon, Peppermint and other essential oils can be purchased on our website here. Our essential oils come in 10ml sizes. Each bottle has about 200 drops of essential oil.

Ingredient SpotLight ~ Shea Butter

2011-03-02T04:10:00.000-08:00

Shea Butter comes from the African nut tree Karite. In it's unrefined, raw state it looks like the picture shown here and has a light nutty aroma. It has been used for centuries by African people to heal and protect skin from the sun and wind. The creamy, beige color is a true sign that it is unrefined retaining all it's natural health benefits. The shea butter we use in Kokokahn products comes from Togo, Africa and is made using traditional methods under fair trade and organic guidelines. This beautiful butter is handcrafted from the nut to it's raw state by women in small villages.

Shea butter is rich in vitamins and minerals including vitamins A and E. These vitamins help slow signs of aging by stimulating the production of collagen in the skin. They also soothe, heal and hydrate skin. Shea butter is also rich in Vitamin F which protects and renews skin.

Shea Butter Skin Benefits:

Dry Skin

Eczema, dermatitis and skin rashes

Soothes itchy skin

Wrinkles

Stretch marks

Chapped, bleeding winter skin

Dry feet

Skin allergies

Diaper rash

Frost bite

As with any carrier oil or butter it is important to use an unrefined and preferably organic product. Once shea butter is refined, either through a chemical process or high heat, it loses all of it's inherent health benefits.

We use this beautiful butter in our Whipped Body Butters, Shea Butter Body Balm and Ginger Cream Sugar Scrub.

Valentine Aromatherapy

2011-02-01T06:24:00.000-08:00

Love is in the air! With cupid on the horizon I thought it would be a good time to talk about aromatherapy to inspire love and passion.

Aphrodisiacs

Patchouli, Ylang Ylang and Vanilla are great for spicing up the bedroom. Add a drop of patchouli and ylang ylang to your bedsheets or diffuse in the house to inspire a romantic evening. Vanilla infused jojoba oil is a great medium for massage oils. Valentine' Day is the perfect time to massage your loved one. Here's a fun recipe:

1 ounce Vanilla infused jojoba oil

3 drops ylang ylang

5 drops patchouli

Essential Oils with a strong affiliation to the heart include Rose, Jasmine and Neroli. Neroli comes from orange blossoms and is one of my favorites.

Check out our Valentine Gift Guide with vanilla infused jojoba oil, patchouli and ylang ylang essential oils.

Rosemary Essential Oil

2011-01-31T18:15:00.000-08:00

Rosemary has a deep history dating back to the Middle Ages where it was used to protect against the plague. It is one of the earliest plants to be used for food and medicine. Rosemary essential oil comes from the flowering tops or leaves. Let us take a closer look at the essential oil form of Rosemary and ways to incorporate it in your daily life for healing.

Health Benefits:

Helps improve concentration, focus and memory loss
Highly antiseptic helping to fight germs and infections
A mild pain reliever easing headaches, acute injuries and cramps
Good for lung congestion and respiratory support
Stimulates the scalp encouraging hair growth and combats against dandruff
Eases aches and pains from strenuous work outs or excercise

Ways to Use Rosemary:

Put a drop on a tissue or cotton ball and inhale deeply to help you concentrate or focus at work
Add 1 drop to a handful of shampoo and wash your hair
Add to a diffuser to cleanse the air in your house when there is illness
Put 1 drop in a bowl and add steaming water. Cover your head and steam for 3-5 minutes to help break up congestion from a cold.
Add 5-6 drops to 1 ounce lotion and apply to sore muscles
Put a drop on a cotton ball and inhale to help you stay awake and focused while driving

Safety to consider when using Rosemary:

It is a mentally stimulating oil and best to use in the morning or during the day.
Not recommended for high blood pressure
Avoid during pregnancy and if you are epileptic
Rosemary can be skin irritating so best not to apply to your skin undiluted.
Use caution with children. No more than 5-6 drops per ounce of lotion and never use undiluted with children.
As with all essential oils, do not use on animals under 60 pounds. And if you have cats or smaller animals like guinea pigs, make sure there is a way for them to get fresh air if you are diffusing. Opening a window is sufficient.

As a side note when purchasing essential oils make sure to buy essential oils that are pure and unadulterated to receive their therapeutic benefits.

You can purchase Rosemary essential oil on our website here.

Do you cook with Rosemary? Do you use the essential oil? What ways has Rosemary helped you?

Aromatherapy for Sleep

2011-01-04T09:11:00.000-08:00

Sleep ~ a necessity for physical and emotional well being. It seems so many people have challenges sleeping. There are many essential oils that can help. And many ways to incorporate them into your evening rituals.

Essential Oils For Sleep

Patchouli: Grounding, calming & also an aphrodisiac

Ylang Ylang: An exotic floral aroma from Asia. Also beneficial for high blood pressure and an aphrodisiac.

Use Patchouli & Ylang Ylang sparingly ~ a little goes a long way and too much can be stimulating instead of sedating.

Roman Chamomile: Helps calm anxiety and anger. Good for loneliness too ~ all feelings that can inhibit sleep.

Lavender: Can't forget the lavender! Such a wonderful oil for so many things and sleep is definitely one of them. Also helps calm anxiety and fear.

Geranium: Helps relieve anxiety, stress and depression too.

Ways to Use Essential Oils for Sleep

Use them in an inhaler. Very convenient to have on your bedside table. Insert in your nose and inhale deeply. Here's a link to the inhalers we carry.

Aromatherapy Inhalers ~ Dream Time, Stress Relief and Emotional Balance are all be good for sleep.

Add 5-6 drops to an evening bath. The warmth of the water coupled with the essential oils is one of my favorite ways to have a great nights sleep. I also like to add himalayan pink salts which are relaxing too.

Add 3-5 drops in an aromatherapy diffuser. If you don't have one, here's one I recommend by Westinghouse.

Add 1 drop to your bedsheets. If you want a stronger aroma put it on your pillow, for a lighter aroma put a drop near your feet.

Do you have trouble sleeping? What are some methods you use to help you sleep? What essential oils do you use for sleep?

Ginger Essential Oil

2010-11-10T13:11:00.000-08:00

Warming
Increases circulation
Soothes nausea

Those are the first 3 things that come to mind when I think of Ginger (Zinginger officinale) essential oil. With the weather cooling down and cold & flu season in the air, ginger is one of the first essential oils I think of for it's warming properties. Ginger also reminds me of the holidays and energizes me this time of year. Here are some more therapeutic properties of ginger.

Mild pain reliever
Good for headaches
Good for digestion
Soothes menstrual cramps
Soothes arthritis
Helps reduce fevers
Aphrodisiac
Energizes & Stimulates

One safety issue important to note with Ginger is it can be skin irritating. Always dilute ginger in lotion or a carrier oil like almond or jojoba oil.

Recipes for using Ginger essential oil:

Tummy Soother

Add 3 drops ginger, 2 drops peppermint and 3 drops orange to 1 ounce lotion

Great for nausea of all sorts from car sickness to just too much holiday eating

Bedroom Spice

Add 4 drops ginger to 1 ounce vanilla jojoba oil and use to massage your partner or spouse

What experiences do you have with ginger essential oil? Which recipe would you like to try? Do you cook with ginger?

Check out our Ginger Cream Collection:

Ginger Cream Sugar Scrub

Ginger Cream Whipped Body Butter

Whipped Body Butters

2010-09-09T08:40:00.000-07:00

I'm excited to announce new Whipped Body Butters just in time for the cooler weather and drier skin that comes with it. They are lighter than our Body Balms and heavier than the Aromatherapy Lotions. Smooth, creamy and lucsious. They come in 3 aromas.

Ginger Cream: Vanilla jojoba oil whipped with shea and cocoa butters. Blended with ginger and orange essential oils. Ginger is warming and orange is bright and uplifting. The synergy of these aromas is absolutely divine with a nostalgic fall scent.

Bright Earth: Jojoba oil whipped with shea and cocoa butters. Patchouli, geranium and bergamot essential oils. Patchouli is grounding with skin nourishing geranium and uplifting bergamot. Perfect for the contemplative days of fall and winter.

Nutty Cream: Whipped Shea and Cocoa Butters. Smooth, creamy and luscious. A light nutty aroma with no essential oils.

Tea Tree Health

2010-08-16T06:34:00.000-07:00

Melaleuca alternifolia is the latin name for Tea Tree and it is native to Australia. There has been a lot of research on the health benefits of Tea Tree giving it strong scientific support. It has also been used by the Aboriginal people of Australia for a very long time. Here are some of the health benefits to consider and ways to use this wonderful oil in your daily life.

Health Benefits

Stimulates the immune system by activating white blood cells. Terpinen-4-ol is one of the constituents that makes up Tea Tree and is the main immune stimulating property. It makes up 30% - 48% of Tea Tree making it one of the strongest immune supporting essential oils available.
Good for the respiratory system helping to alleviate mucous.
Antibacterial, antiviral and antiseptic making it great to use for cleaning and mold in the shower.
Good for thrush or yeast infections.
Best for oily skin and acne.
Helps eliminate dandruff.
Gentle wound healer.
Great for head lice.
Excellent for keeping the mouth healthy.
Emotionally Tea Tree helps build strength and confidence.

Ways to use Tea Tree

Add 5 drops to a bath to give the immune system a boost.
Add 2 drops to a bowl of hot water and steam your face for 5 minutes. Great for colds or the flu and oily skin.
Add 1 drop to your bed sheets at night for immune support.
Put 1 drop on a cottonball and carry with you when traveling to support your immune system.
Put 1 drop undiluted on acne spots.
Add 50 drops to an 8oz bottle of shampoo. Shake well and use daily for dandruff.
Put a drop in the shower for respiratory and immune support while showering.
Add 120 drops to 8oz spray bottle. Keep in the shower and spray after each shower to keep mold and bacteria down.

You can purchase Tea Tree on our website here.

Do you use Tea Tree? What are your favorite ways to use Tea Tree?

All information provided here is for educational purposes only. It is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent illness.

Chakras & Aromatherapy

2010-07-29T07:06:00.000-07:00

Chakras are the subtle energy centers of our body. There are 7 main Chakra centers that correspond to our physical, emotional and spiritual well being. The goal is to keep them balanced for optimal health. Essential oils at low levels help balance the chakras. Each circle in the picture below represents one of the Chakras. In the descriptions of each Chakra I start with the Root Chakra at the base of the spine and work up in order to the Crown Chakra near the top of the head. The energy passes through our whole body at these general points.

The study of Chakras comes from India and is more than 4,000 years old. Included below each Chakra description are essential oils that are beneficial. Blending the essential oils in a carrier oil such as jojoba or almond oil is important. Using small amounts of essential oils in the blends allows the energy of the plants to be at the forefront instead of the aroma.

Chakra oils can be used many ways. Apply a small amount directly to the chakra. Except for the Root and Crown Chakra, I like to put the oil on the front and back of the chakra that feels out of balance. They are wonderful to use in meditation or prayer. I've used them often at the end of a yoga session. Using them in a bath is another way to use them. I prefer applying the oil directly to the Chakra before getting in the bath.

Root Chakra - Stay grounded in the Present focusing on releasing deep seated anger and emotions.

Vetiver: Grounds and protects. Unites body and spirit from Root to Crown Chakra

Sandalwood: Supports meditation. Reduces irritation and anger

Sacral Chakra - Center of creativity. Sexual and emotional centers.

Ylang Ylang: Promotes sensual awakening

Peppermint: Stimulates new ideas and creativity

Solar Plexus Chakra - The source of our personal power. Protect one's self confidence, self-image and overall attitude. Stressful events affect this Chakra the most.

Geranium: Protects from disturbing energy

Sweet Basil: Energetic protection. Strengthens self confidence

Heart Chakra - Be open and receptive to giving and receiving love.

Rose: Soothes and heals the heart

Geranium: Supports one's ability to give and receive

Throat Chakra - Release unexpressed pent-up emotions opening communication

Lemon: Promotes a sense of opening

Jasmine: Relieves depression associated with emotional repression

3rd Eye Chakra - Stimulate intuitive thinking. Purify negative tendencies and release judgmental thoughts

Helichrysum: Encourages intuition and creative dreaming

Sandalwood: Brings us back to ourselves

Crown Chakra - Center of spirituality and enlightenment

Howood: Spiritually healing

Elemi: Enhances visualization and feelings of deep peacefulness

Resources

To see our Chakra blends click here.
A great book that I recommend for learning more about Chakras and Aromatherapy is Sublte Aromatherapy by Patricia Davis.

Which Chakra do you resonate with? Do you practice Yoga? Have you ever worked with Chakras in yoga class or on your own?

The Story of Blackie

2010-07-03T09:54:00.000-07:00

I have a great story to tell about my kitty Blackie and his roll at Kokokahn. Isn't he handsome organic milk dripping from his chin and all!

Blackie came to us in Tucson, Arizona about 4 years ago. Funny little (he's actually pretty big!) guy he would chase our other kitty, Jennie, around the neighborhood crying for her like he was madly in love. He was a stray and got in a lot of fights with the other stray kitties. One day during a cold winter (imagine that in the desert, it even snowed that year!) he came to the patio door and let out the saddest cry of pain and help. I'll never forget that cry or the expression on his face. He had a respiratory infection. So we slowly got him to come inside and eventually live with us. It took me a year and a half to get him to purr and almost a year before he trusted me enough to pick him up.

When we moved to Florida he started having horrible hot spots where his skin would get gooey and tacky and then scab over. The hair would then fall out and was usually about the size of a half dollar. So, I saw a perfect opportunity to brew something up for him. I don't think I mentioned he is very receptive to any help I try to give him. We've used homeopathy with him and all kinds of supplements in his food and he just takes it all like a trooper knowing we just want to help him.

I started doing my homework but had a general idea of certain oils to use. I definitely didn't want to use essential oils because I knew cat's kidneys couldn't dispose of them and they could build up a toxicity. I looked at all the wound healing carrier oils. Baobab and Tamanu were the winners with all the research on their amazing ability to heal wounds.

It worked wonders on his hot spots and he loved it because it took the itchy, creepy- crawly feeling away. You could see his body relax when I put it on him. That was about 2 years ago and I have since shared it with friends and family. Garfield (my mom's kittie) had great results from a cut he got on his leg while frolicking outside. Bailey, the Boxer, had hair patch losses which were helped with the balm.

That's the story of Blackie's roll at Kokokahn. I wonder if he knows he is helping other furry friends heal naturally?

Do you have any pet stories to share?

Bug Repellents and Relief with Aromatherapy

2010-06-18T05:53:00.000-07:00

Keeping summer bugs at bay can be challenging. Mosquitos and chiggers abound all over the country. Here in Florida we have no-see-ums which are like mosquitos on a war path. And you can't see them coming! When I first moved here we went to a fishery on the water and I left with about 50 bites all over my lower back. I thought it was a good time to share some essential oils that work amazingly. Some deter bug bites and some heal and relieve itching once you have bites.

Patchouli is a great bug repellent and can be applied neat or undiluted on the skin. Put 1 drop on your fingers and rub on your ankles or other areas you're prone to get bit. Here's a recipe that works well too. You can add it to 1 ounce of water or a carrier oil such as jojoba oil. I prefer the oil base because it works longer having more staying power. It smells amazing too!

5 drops Patchouli

3 drops Peppermint

3 drops Orange
1 drop Eucalyptus

Lavender is amazing at relieving itching once you have been biten. We had a lavender scrub body treatment at a spa I worked at and a woman came in one day going bananas itching from no-see-um bites. She was so relieved after the treatment she came back the next day to buy some of the scrub and tell us how much better she felt. Lavender can be applied neat or undiluted on the skin.

What do you use to keep bugs at bay in the summer? Have you tried any natural alternatives?

Summer Health with Coconut Oil

2010-06-05T07:05:00.000-07:00

I love summertime. The beach, being outdoors, and the energizing sun are all reasons why I live in Florida. With all the heat summer brings Coconut Oil is wonderful for cooling the body inside and out.

Benefits of Coconut Oil

Antioxidant - Fights free radicals providing anti-aging benefits and helping to reduce damage from the sun
Cooling and soothing for sunburns
Helps maintain a healthy balance of intestinal flora
A great hair conditioner
Good for sensitive skin and doesn't clog pores
Antifungal
Rich in lauric acid that supports the bodies immune system

Buying Coconut Oil

It is important to buy unrefined, cold pressed, virgin coconut oil to obtain all the amazing health benefits coconut oil provides. In my experience it is relatively easy to find cold pressed coconut oil, but a little more challenging to find unrefined. Look on the package, if it doesn't state either way, it is probably refined. Refining a natural product like coconut oil usually requires heat which strips the inherent health benefits and changes the chemistry.

Recipe for Oatmeal Cookies

3/4 C. Coconut Oil

1 1/4 C. firmly packed brown sugar

1 egg

1/3 C. milk

1 1/2 t. vanilla

1 C. whole wheat flour

1/2 t. baking soda

1/2 t. salt

3 C. oats

1 C. raisins (optional)

1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees

2. Combine and beat on medium speed in a large bowl: coconut oil, sugar, egg, milk and vanilla.

3. Combine flour, baking soda and salt in small bowl, then mix into the creamed mixture at low speed until just blended.

4. Add raisins then drop rounded tablespoon size dough onto cookie sheet.

5. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes or until lightly brown. Cool for 2 minutes before removing.

Some Great Resources

On my website we sell a couple products made with unrefined, cold pressed, virgin coconut oil. The Coconut Body Balm is a great moisturizer especially after a day in the sun. There's also a Coconut Orange Salt Scrub that's exfoliates the skin with a fresh coconut and orange aroma perfect for summer. And then the increasingly popular lip balms: Vegan Coconilla and Coconut Orange.

Here's a link to a more articles on the internal health benefits of Coconut Oil with some great articles on research in tropical islands where native people have been consuming coconut oil as part of their daily diet for centuries. "The Health Benefits of Virgin Coconut Oil".

A great book that I recommend is Coconut Oil: For Health and Beauty by Cynthia and Laura Holzapfel. Lots of science and recipes!

Do you use coconut oil? What are your experiences with coconut oil?

How to Read Labels on Personal Care Products: Parabens

2010-04-29T04:25:00.000-07:00

In January I wrote a blog on phthalates. What they are, why they are used in some products, why you might want to avoid them and how to spot them on ingredient lists. It feels like I just wrote about them a few weeks ago, and here it is almost the end of April! In continuation of How to Read Labels on Personal Care Products, this blog is dedicated to parabens. Again, focusing on simplifying and giving you some useful information with links to read in more detail if you prefer.

What are Parabens?

Parabens are a group of chemicals widely used in the cosmetic and pharmaceutical industries. Chemically they are esters. Some shampoos, moisturizers, toothpaste and other personal care products contain them. They are also used as food additives.

Why do some companies use Parabens?

Parabens are used as a preservative and are especially popular for their antibacterial and antifungal properties. They are inexpensive and extend the shelf life of a product.

How can they be harmful?

Probably the most known association of parabens in relation to negative health side effects is their relationship to breast cancer. They have been found in the tumors of breast cancer, but it is not known if they cause the tumors. They are known to cause many allergic reactions and skin rashes.

How can I find them on a label?

Finding parabens in an ingredient list is fairly easy as most of them have the word paraben in them. Here are some of the most commonly used ones. Methylparaben, ethylparaben, propylparaben and butylparaben.

Here are some links if you're interested in reading more on parabens.

The Ugly Face of our Cosmetics

Wikipedia

The Healing Benefits of Lavender

2010-04-10T05:22:00.000-07:00

There are many types of Lavender with a variety of therapeutic uses. This blog will focus on one of the most common, Lavandula angustifolia. Lavender comes from the latin word lavare, meaning to wash. It's roots come from Roman times when they added lavender to their wash water. Lavender is distilled from the flower tops and is native to the Mediterranean region.

Lavender is one of the safest oils to use and is one of the best first aid oils. It is safe to use with children (diluted in lotion or a carrier oil such as jojoba) and safe to use undiluted or "neat" on adult skin. Star qualities include it's skin healing properties and emotional balancing effects. There are so many wonder-ful uses of Lavender. Below is a list of some and ways to use them in your daily life.

Apply 1 drop undiluted to burns and cuts. It's best to apply directly after the injury and reapply 2 to 3 times throughout the day.

Apply 1 drop undiluted to bug bites. Helps relieve itching and speeds up healing.

Good for tension headaches. Apply 1 drop undiluted to temples or the back of your neck.

A good anti-inflammatory oil. Reducing inflammation helps to relieve pain and swelling. Add to a bath, or put 5-6 drops in an ounce of lotion or oil and apply to inflamed areas.

Aids sleep and stress. Add a drop to your bedsheets before going to bed.

Great for unwinding daily stress and tension. Put 5-6 drops in the bath, or put a drop on a tissue and inhale deeply throughout the day.

Freshens and relaxes the home. Add 2-3 drops to a pot of simmering water. Add to an electric or tea light diffuser.

Add 30 drops to 1 1/2 cups baking soda and sprinkle on the carpet. Wait 30 minutes and vacuum up. Really nice for a fresh, clean spring scent in your home!

Good for PMS and the monthly cramps that come with it. Add 10-12 drops to 1 ounce of lotion or oil and apply to your tummy or lower back. I recommend applying 2 to 3 times a day.

Helps digestion. Add 5-6 drops to an ounce of lotion with 5-6 drops of orange essential oil and apply to tummy.

Great for Restless Leg Syndrome. Add 10-12 drops to 1 ounce of lotion or oil and apply to your legs.

As I've mentioned in other posts, it is important to buy unadulterated high quality essential oils. Fragrance oils or essential oils that are cut with synthetic ingredients do not have therapeutic value. The latin name and country of origin should be on the label of all essential oils you buy. GC/MS testing is the only way to ensure an essential oil has not been adulterated. I recommend only buying essential oils that have been tested this way. I'm excited to announce that we are offering GC/MS tested essential oils on our website now. As we grow, we will be adding more to our line. We currently offer a beautiful French Lavender from the high altitudes of France. Click here to see a list of oils we currently offer.

How do you use Essential Oils? What are some of your favorite Essential Oils? Do you use Lavender?

I am not a doctor and do not suppose to be one. The information provided is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent illness. It is for educational purposes only and my pleasure to share my experiences and research with you.

How You Can Contribute to Earth Day

2010-04-05T05:33:00.000-07:00

Earth Day debuted in 1970. I find it amazing that we have been celebrating and working towards taking better care of our planet since 1970! It seems to me that some of the eco-friendly practices, such as recycling, recently became mainstream, or at least not 40 years ago.

April 22nd is the official birthday of Earth Day, but I think it's worth celebrating every day. I had a Vegan Body and Lip Balm in mind and felt is was most appropriate to launch it in honor of Earth Day. Here are some things you can do to contribute to a better planet for tomorrow.

Volunteer for an event in your area such as helping plant trees. Click here to find an event near you.
Make sure you have recycling pick up at home.
Set up recycling in your home.

I did this in mine and it was actually a fun, creative experience. Get a small trash can for the following:

Paper (include a separate one for home offices or bedrooms)
Glass, cans, and plastic bottles (Number 1 or 2 in the small triangle usually located on the bottom of the packaging)
Batteries & Ink Cartridges
Other plastics - Numbers 3-7

Then create a label to tape to the trash can denoting what each trash can is for. There's lots of fun clip art to add too. I created mine in a simple Word document and printed on a regular piece of paper.

Most trash service providers also provide a recycling option. Where I live they only pick up paper (this includes cardboard boxes), glass, cans and plastic bottles (Nos. 1 and 2). If you're really ambitious like me, find out where you can recycle other plastics (Nos. 3-7) here and drop them off. Ink cartridges can be recycled at some Walgreens or Office Depot.

Turn your air conditioning down 2 degrees
Make a conscious effort to keep lights off when you're not in the room
Reuse take out containers instead of buying new tupperware
Turn the water off when you brush your teeth
Ride your bicycle
Carpool to work
Buy organic
Clean out your toxic cleaners for non-toxic ones. I like Seventh Generation.

These are just a few things you can do everyday that make a huge impact.

In closing, Earth Day's Anthem......

Joyful joyful we adore our Earth in all its wonderment

Simple gifts of nature that all join into a paradise

Now we must absolve to protect her

Show her our love through out all time

With our gentle hand and touch

We make our home a newborn world

Now we must absolve to protect her

Show her our love through out all time

With our gentle hand and touch

We make our home a newborn world

To learn more about the history of Earth Day click here.

What are some eco-friendly things you do? Do you plan to attend any events for Earth Day? Do you have any eco-friendly tips or links to share?

Top 10 Health Benefits of Himalayan Pink Salt

2010-03-05T06:06:00.000-08:00

Where do I start? There are so many amazing health benefits of Himalayan Pink Salts I felt compelled to share my favorites with you. Here's my Top 10 favorites.....

My Top 10 Health Benefits of Himalayan Pink Salt

10. Provides relief for skin conditions such as psoraisis and skin rashes.

9. Natural pink and light red colors from the high mineral and iron content.

8. Considered one of the purest salts in the world coming from the clean rivers and lakes of the Himalayan Mountains.

7. Smooths, softens and cleans skin - I never thought I'd say salt makes your skin soft, but it truly does!

6. Helps strengthen our immune system.

5. Soothes aches and pains.

4. Has 84 trace elements such as potassium, calcium and iron. Iron aids in transporting oxygen to our cells and gives it it's red color.

3. Relaxing and helps you sleep deeper.

2. Provides relief for colds and the flu.

And for my #1 Health Benefit........Big Drum Roll.....

1. Good for water retention and PMS!

Everything you put on your skin absorbs into your bloodstream and cells. So, when I think of bath and body products, I consider them the same as food that I ingest. Putting only the best Mother Nature creates in my baths and on my skin is always at the forefront of my mind. I must mention too, that I love to cook with Himalayan Pink Salt. I find I use much less than regular table salt and I love knowing that it's so good for me.

Where can I buy Himalayan Pink Salt:

Kokokahn: for bath salts, salt scrubs and foot soaks

Wholefoods

Your local nutrition store

A note about unrefined salts: When purchasing Himalayan Pink Salt it's important to make sure they haven't been refined. Once they are refined, they lose many, if not all, of the health benefits listed above. If it's not stated as "unrefined" on the packaging, ask the store clerk or company you're buying from.

Do you use Himalayan Pink Salts in the bath or cooking? What is your favorite health benefit in my Top 10 list? Are there any other health benefits not listed here that you love?

Vanilla Oleoresin

2010-02-26T11:48:00.000-08:00

A Brief History

Vanilla (Vanilla planifolia) is an orchid native to Mexico. Hummingbirds and bees have to pollinate the flowers for pods to form. In the mid 1800's a 12 year old slave from Reunion developed a hand pollinating technique which allowed other regions in the world to produce vanilla. The vanilla we use in food and cosmetics comes from these pods. Without pollination there would be no vanilla. Today 58% of the world's vanilla comes from Madagascar. Vanilla oleoresin is extracted with alcohol followed by removal of the alcohol thru vacuum distillation. What is left is thick, rich and dark chocolate in color. And I might add absolutely delicious to smell! Some aromatherapy products use the vanilla extract used in cooking. I prefer Vanilla Oleoresin because the alcohol has been removed. Vanilla Extract, which is what you find in most supermarkets, is made with 35% alcohol. Because the production of vanilla is laborious and time consuming, the cost is high, especially for the real deal.

Therapeutic Emotional Attributes

Consoling and soothing
Helps improve confidence
Helps to dissolve pent up anger and frustration
An aphrodisiac

According to Kathy Keville and Mindy Green's book Aromatherapy: A Complete Guide to the Healing Art, in studies children particuarly liked this aroma possibly because it closely represents the natural smell of a mother's milk.

While there is not a lot of research on Vanilla for therapeutic uses, I find it's aroma exceptionally powerful. This is why I decided to introduce Vanilla Jojoba Oil on my website so that others can experience and enjoy a pure, high quality form of vanilla. To create this oil, I infuse oleoresin in jojoba oil for at least 2 weeks (all Certified Organic!). The oil can be used in the bath, as a moisturizer, worn as a perfume, used as a massage oil or used in your hair to combat frizzies or as a deep conditioner. The aroma is absolutely amazing and every time I smell it I'm blown away.

To purchase Vanilla Jojoba Oil please visit our website at http://www.kokokahn.com

To learn more about Essential Oils click here.

You can also learn more about Aromatherapy and Essential Oils on our Facebook Fan Page.

How to Use Aromatherapy for Stress Relief

2010-01-24T16:14:00.000-08:00

Stress. We all experience it to some degree or another. Aromatherapy can help melt away, balance and ease the stress of daily life. Lavender, Roman Chamomile and Spikenard are three of my favorite essential oils when dealing with stress.

Lavender balances, calms, and soothes emotional distress and physical pain which can be associated with stress. It works well with insomnia too which is often associated with being stressed out. Roman Chamomile eases tight, stressful muscles that almost always come with stress. And it can take you away to a peaceful dreamy place at night too. Spikenard is a little less known plant that you may not have heard of. It is one of my favorites and when I smell it I can feel my whole body letting go. It has an earthy, deep aroma and a long history dating back to the bible. Spikenard helps with insomnia as well as nervous tension, indigestion, headaches and even heart palpitations. A great oil to help you stay grounded.

All of this sounds wonderful, right, but are you saying to yourself, "but how can I use these in my life for stress." Here are some ways that I use them daily. These are easy to do and you don't have to make any big daily routine changes.

Carry an inhaler with the essential oils in them and put in your nose reguarly throughout the day.

Apply 1 drop to your temples or bottom of your feet.

Apply the essential oils in a jojoba oil base to the ends of your hair, helps with frizzies too. Just a little, not too much!

Put a few drops in a bath at the end of the day

What are some ways you deal with stress? Do you use essential oils to ease stress? Where do you feel your stress?

For an inhaler or bath & body oil with these essential oils visit our website

How to Read Labels on Personal Care Products: Phthalates

2010-01-17T18:34:00.000-08:00

Our skin is the largest organ in our body and carries what we put on it to our bloodstream and into our cells. This is why it's important to educate yourself on ingredients to stay away from and make sure to read labels when purchasing products.

I've been digging deeper into ingredients that can be harmful and why a company would choose to use them in their products. There must be a reason why they are used. I imagine many of you have heard that dyes, parabens, and other synthetic ingredients are not good for you but do you know which ones fall into which category and how they can be damaging? It starts getting complicated and convoluted so I thought I would try to simplify and focus on phthalates this week. Parabens, sulfates & dyes to come in future blogs. My hope is that

1. you'll have a simplified understanding of reading a label and know what to look out for

2. you'll understand how they can be harmful

3. by only writing about one ingredient to avoid each blog you won't get bored and confused reading about them all at once!

What are phthalates?

Pthalates are a liquid, odorless, man-made chemical substance that are added to some plastics and cosmetics.

Why do some companies use phthalates?

They are added to plastic to give it more flexibility and used in cosmetics to extend the aromatic life in personal and household products.

Why are they harmful?

They have been linked to cancer, asthma, birth defects and reproductive problems especially in men. Some studies show conflicting results with no side effects from phthalates. I don't know about you but I'd rather not have them in my products if even 1 study linked phthalates to any of those diseases. It's worth noting that they have been banned in 14 countries including the European Union.

What are some I can identify on a label?

DEP (diethyl phthalate) and MEP (monoethyl phthalate) are most commonly used in personal care products. One point I found very interesting when I was researching is that by law companies can simply list "fragrance" to account for phthalates. So I stay away from products that have the word "fragrance" in them. Also, if you're not sure if a product contains phthalates, ask. If you can't get an answer, choose to buy from someone else. There are many choices for phthalate-free products.

I hope you found this information simple and helpful. My intention was to bring a simplified awareness without scaring anyone into a panic that they are going to get cancer because of their exposure to phthalates. I think exposure to harmful chemicals is inevitable, but to what extent can be a choice if we're educated. Minimizing our exposure to phthalates is one way we can support a stronger, healthier and longer life.

If you are interested in reading more about phthalates, click on one of these links.

Zero Breast Cancer

Phthalates in Cosmetics & Beauty Products

Have you heard of phthalates, parabens or sulfates? Do you know if your products contain phthalates?

Dry Winter Skin

2010-01-11T06:27:00.000-08:00

Are your hands or feet dry and cracked? Do you put lotion on and 10 minutes later they feel dry again?

With the freezing temperatures this time of year I thought it was a good time to blog about ways to keep your skin soft and healthy. I live in Florida, but the temperatures here have been in the 40's with below freezing at night. My brother and uncle are two people that come to mind who really fight dry skin. They get dry, cracked and sometimes bleeding hands and feet. There are many healing and moisturizing oils and products that are available. I'm going to focus on jojoba oil and body balms.

Jojoba oil is an amazing oil that comes from the bean of a bush native to the deserts in Arizona, Northern Mexico and California. It's health benefits were first discovered by Native Americans. Jojoba oil closely resembles the oil our skin produces naturally and is a wonderful skin conditioner and softener. It penetrates the skin quickly and protects skin in dry conditions. It is also recommended for conditioning the scalp and hair.

Body balms are one of my favorite products to use all over my body anytime of year. But they are especially appreciated in the winter. The body balms I use don't have any water in them so they hang out on the skin for a little while. When I put them on they slowly melt into my pores and I can feel them healing and softening from the inside out. They don't soak in right away but penetrate over a period of about 5 minutes.

Coconut Body Balm - When you combine organic jojoba oil, beeswax, coconut oil and cocoa butter the body balm that's created is an amazing synergy of oils and butters that makes your skin feel soft and supple while healing and nourishing from the inside out. I use them several times a day on my hands and a couple times a week on my face as a night hydrating mask. No parabens, dyes, sulfates or pthalates, just pure simple ingredients from Mother Nature. On a final note, make sure you buy oils that are unrefined. Once an oil is refined, which usually requires high amounts of heat or a chemical solvent, the oil is stripped of it's inherent healing benefits.

Wishing you all happy, healthy supple skin this winter!

Stress Relief for the Holidays

2009-12-23T15:29:00.000-08:00

During the holidays stress and fatigue are common. Some essential oils that provide relief and conjure happy memories of this time of year are Pine and Spruce. The adrenal glands located on top of the kidneys kick into high gear during times of stress, overwork, or anxiety leaving us feeling run down and burnt out. Black Spruce, produced only in Canada, and Douglas Pine support the adrenal glands helping to ease stress. Clove and Peppermint fight fatigue by stimulating the autonomic nervous system which controls breathing and blood pressure.

Holiday Spruce - a blend of White Spruce, Black Spruce & Douglas Pine essential oils blended in Certified Organic Jojoba Oil. Add to a bath, massage a few drops in your neck or lightly apply to the ends of your hair. Great for any time of year but especially reminds me of the Holidays with the pine and spruce aromas. Conjures images of cabin homes for others.....

What aromas remind you of the Holidays?

I am not a doctor and do not suppose to be one. The information provided is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent illness. It is for educational purposes only and my pleasure to share my experiences and research with you.

What are Essential Oils?

2009-11-02T06:28:00.000-08:00

They are so simple, yet quite complex at the same time. An absolutely amazing gift from the Earth that has the ability to heal physical ailments, emotional challenges and lend spiritual support in times of prayer or meditation.

Where do they come from?

Plants. Okay, so most of you probably already know this. Most plants are steam distilled to obtain the oil. I had a teacher explain the process very simply. It was a huge AHA! moment for me! Steam distilling plants to obtain the essential oils is like steaming broccoli. A pot of water boils under the plant material and the steam rises moving through a cold pipe. This coolness separates the oil from the water yielding two products. Essential oils and hydrosols. Hydrosols are amazing in their own right, but a huge topic for another blog. Different parts of a plant are used depending on which part will produce the most amount of oil with the best quality. Sandalwood is steam distilled from the trunk of the tree. Lavender, from the flowers. Ginger, from the roots.

What are they exactly?

Essential oils are a rich, complex symphony of all the goodness a plant has physically and energetically. They are very concentrated and strong. As little as one tiny drop can stop a headache, ease cramps and muscle spasms and so much more.

Are they oily?

No, and I wish whoever came up with the name "essential oils" would have chosen something different than "oil" because the first impression people have is they are oily and will stain your clothes or leave an oily residue. Most of them will leave a wet mark on clothes initially but then vanish within a couple minutes.

How can I use them?

Put 3 or 4 drops in your dish water
Add 3 or 4 drops to your dishwasher
Add 2 drops to a cotton ball and put in your dryer
Put 5 drops in your bath
Boil a pot of water and add 3 drops to cleanse and freshen your home
Add 1 drop to a bowl of hot water and steam your face

There are endless ways to use essential oils. Adding them to shampoo, body wash or other personal care products is effective too. Just make sure you have a product that isn't chock full of harmful chemicals. Wholefoods and other natural food stores are a good resource for buying truly natural personal care products. Read the labels and educate yourself on ingredients that have been shown to be harmful. Wholefoods has a list of unacceptable body care ingredients that is a good place to start.

Quality Quality Quality
Without it the essential oils can not work their magic and heal physically, emotionally or spiritually. Unfortunately in America there are quite a few essential oils that have been cut with other man made chemicals to make them more cost effective and marketable.
Things to look for....

Ask the company you're buying from if they GC/MS test their oils for purity
There should be a variable price range. Rose costs over $100 for 1/2 ounce whereas Lavender is around $20 for 1/2 ounce. This is because it takes 60,000 roses to produce 1 ounce of oil. Lavender requires far less plant material to produce the same amount.

Essential oils have been in use for thousands of years healing physical ailments and emotional challenges as well as supporting spiritual growth. With over 200 plants that are made into essential oils the aromatic and healing possibilities are endless.

For quality essential oils & aromatherapy products visit our website at http://www.kokokahn.com

How do you use essential oils? What is your favorite essential oil? How have they helped you?

Peppermint Essential Oil

2009-10-11T04:44:00.000-07:00

Do your feet and ankles swell, ache or feel like they’ve taken too much abuse? My feet experience these feelings often and Peppermint essential oil has been the best remedy I’ve found.

Peppermint (latin name Mentha x piperita) is an amazing plant with many therapeutic properties that help heal physically and emotionally. First, I’ll talk about my favorite use of peppermint with Himalayan pink salts in a foot bath. Peppermint increases circulation and reduces swelling with it’s anti-inflammatory effects. It is also a great analgesic which means simply that it provides pain relief for your tired and achy feet. Peppermint is also cooling which feels amazing on ragged worn out feet.

Let’s talk about upset tummies and stomach aches. Peppermint is excellent for nausea or stomach cramping and helps alleviate those uncomfortable digestive feelings quickly. Add one drop to a squirt of lotion and rub on your belly.

Colds, Congestion & the Flu. With the winter season upon us and all the talk about getting flu shots it is the perfect time to bring out the peppermint. As a decongestant (breaks up the mucous), expectorant (helps to get all that mucous out), and immune support, Peppermint will help you get thru the cold & flu season. The pain relieving qualities of peppermint are essential here as well providing relief from headaches and tension commonly associated with colds and the flu.

Cleaning with Peppermint essential oil is a safe alternative to all the chemical products on the market with an added benefit of supporting your immune system. Peppermint is an antiseptic fighting germs and infections. It is also antimicrobial killing and inhibiting the growth of viruses and bacteria. A fresh, bright, uplifting and clean scent. Check out the recipe at the end of this blog. It’s very simple and you don’t need many supplies.

Safety Considerations

There are some essential oils that have safety concerns that you should be aware of. Peppermint is one of those oils. Please read the following safety issues before using Peppermint essential oil.

Do not use Peppermint with children under the age of 5.

Use caution if you have sensitive skin and do a patch test to make sure you don’t have a reaction.

Peppermint is not recommended in a full bath, best to use it in a foot bath. It can cause skin irritation and be irritating to the eyes.

Use in small amounts. A little goes a long way. One drop in a foot bath is plenty.

As with all essential oils, never put them on cats and use extreme caution when using them with other animals. Cats have a unique and sensitive metabolism. Reports have shown cats livers can not process and dispose of them properly building up toxicity.
People with high blood pressure should use caution when using Peppermint. 5 to 6 drops per 1 ounce of oil or salt is the maximum amount advised and never apply it neat or undiluted.

Make sure there is enough ventilation (open a window) when using essential oils.

All Purpose Cleaning Spray

16oz Water

1 T. Vinegar

1 t. Corn Starch

15 drops Peppermint

20 drops Lemon

20 drops Lavender

Put all ingredients in a PET plastic spray bottle. Shake before each use.

A Note on Choosing Essential Oils:

There are many essential oils on the market that have been cut with cheaper chemicals to make them more cost effective. I encourage you to buy from a reputable supplier and do a little homework. Essential oils that are GC/MS tested are preferable as they provide proof that there are no adulterants.

You can find Peppermint Foot Soaks and Chocolate Peppermint Sugar Scrubs exclusively for the holidays at my website www.kokokahn.com.

Have you ever used Peppermint essential oil? What essential oils do you like? What aromatherapy products do you use at home? What are your favorite plants?