Search Results

How essential oils support healthy digestion With the holidays around the corner come the delicious meals, drinks, then the desserts…and then the cycle repeats. It's all gravy, until the gravy fights back. My absolute favorite digestion support is the  Tranquil Tummy Digestion Aid Roll-On. Tranquil Tummy  is a blend of digestion supportive essential oils that are acclaimed for soothing inflammation, muscle relaxation, reducing gas and bloating, reducing nausea, soothing a queasy belly, and also supporting stress relief. With a warming blend of Nutmeg, Cardamom, Fennel, Ginger, Peppermint and Sweet Orange,  this topical roll on   is so handy to have through the holiday season. “How does applying essential oils topically help my digestion?” I'm SO glad you asked. : )  Topically applying certain digestive supportive essential oils , like Nutmeg or Ginger, allows for a targeted, localized effect. The skin is permeable and essential oils are absorbed through the skin into the bloodstream. Once absorbed, the therapeutic compounds in the essential oils can exert their effects on the body. Certain digestive-supportive essential oils like Peppermint encourage a healthy flow of energy throughout your body. This can help everything move smoothly through your belly and create a refreshing detox effect if you overindulge in rich food. In addition, there are numerous studies which confirm Peppermint oil’s anti-inflammatory actions, specifically of use in the gastrointestinal system to help with irritable bowel syndrome and colitis. (1) It has been proven to relieve gastrointestinal spasms, abdominal pain, and acts as a smooth muscle relaxant in the colon. (2)  Many people find that Peppermint and Sweet Orange essential oils can relieve constipation, cramps. Nausea and vomiting.(3)  Essential oils like Cardamom can help aid digestion by promoting the secretion of digestion juices and enzymes, easing digestive upset and bloating, and improving overall digestive system health. For the best digestion support, here is a visual how to apply the Tranquil Tummy roll-on: For additional benefits, as you are applying the topical solution to your stomach area, you are also inhaling the aroma which can help promote relaxation and stress release. A blend of these essential oils diluted properly and applied topically like the   Tranquil Tummy   for digestion is much more safe to you and your gut lining than internally consuming essential oils, and it works like a charm for those times when we eat just a little bit too much…  Tranquil Tummy is perfect for ages 6 & up! Grab yours here: Questions? Comments? I always love to hear from you! Reach out using the contact box below. Happy Holidays, Your neighborhood aromatherapist, Rachel Citations: (1)  In a review,(1)  Zhao  et al.  (2022) cite numerous studies which confirm peppermint oil’s anti-inflammatory actions, of notable use in the gastrointestinal system, (it is gastroprotective and can alleviate irritable bowel syndrome and colitis),  2) Peppermint essential oil has antispasmodic actions on the gastrointestinal tract (Heinrich  et al . 2004). It relieves gastrointestinal spasms and abdominal pain (Zhao  et al . 2022). Chumpitazi  et al . (2018) suggested that peppermint oil affects the enteric nervous system, acting as a smooth muscle relaxant in the colon. (3) Sweet Orange for soothing constipation, cramps, irritable bowel syndrome, nausea, and vomiting.Hirota, R., Roger, N.N., (4) Nakamura, H., Song, H.-S., Sawamura, M., and Suganuma, N. (2010) Anti-inflammatory effects of limonene from yuzu ( Citrus junos  Tanaka) essential oil on eosinophils.  Journal of Food Science  75, 87-92.

Back-to-School season and the arrival of autumn have me hunkering back down to the comforts of the cozy indoors. With gloomy weather inevitably on its way, we might need some extra help staying alert, concentrating, or completing a project.  Whether you need help staying focused on the road, at work, or helping your kiddos with their homework, here are 5 essential oils that help keep you focused and why:  1. Peppermint Oil Benefits : Peppermint oil is known for its invigorating and energizing properties. It can help improve alertness, concentration, and cognitive performance. Why It Works : The menthol in peppermint oil stimulates the hippocampus area of the brain, which controls mental clarity and memory. 2. Rosemary Oil Benefits : Rosemary oil has been shown to enhance memory and cognitive function. It can also reduce mental fatigue and improve focus. Why It Works : Rosemary contains compounds like 1,8-cineole that boost acetylcholine levels, a neurotransmitter important for memory and learning. 3. Lemon Oil Benefits : Lemon oil is uplifting and can help increase mental alertness and concentration. It also reduces anxiety and stress, which can hinder focus. Why It Works : The limonene in lemon oil stimulates the release of serotonin and dopamine, which enhance mood and cognitive functions. 4. Frankincense Oil Benefits : Frankincense oil can help improve focus and concentration by reducing feelings of stress and anxiety. Why It Works : The sesquiterpenes in frankincense oil can increase oxygenation of the brain, promoting a sense of calm and mental clarity. 5. Vetiver Oil Benefits : Vetiver oil is grounding and calming, which can help with focus and attention, especially for individuals with ADHD. Why It Works : Vetiver oil contains nootkatone, which has sedative properties that can help calm the mind and improve concentration. These essential oils can be a great addition to your back-to-school routine, helping students and adults alike stay focused and productive. There you have it! But, please don’t take my word for it. Experience using these essential oils for yourself! I’m confident these essential oils will help keep you refreshed, alert, and can help you tackle the to-dos of the day.  PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT: The Time to Focus Aromatherapy Inhaler is an incredibly helpful blend to have handy on a desk or in backpack when your attention starts drifting elsewhere.  Blended with Peppermint, Vetiver, Rosemary, and Lemon (4 of the 5 best essential oils for concentration!) Particularly helpful for those who experience ADHD or difficulty staying focused. You can also check out the full line of quality therapeutic essential oils below! Questions? Comments? I always love to hear from you! Reach out anytime using the contact box below. Your personal aromatherapist, Rachel Study Citations: Raudenbush, B., et al. (2008). Effects of peppermint scent on appetite control and caloric intake. Appetite , 51(3), 393-396. Moss, M., et al. (2003). Rosemary aroma and cognitive performance. Therapeutic Advances in Psychopharmacology , 1(5), 105-113. Diego, M. A., et al. (1998). Aromatherapy positively affects mood, EEG patterns of alertness and math computations. International Journal of Neuroscience , 96(3-4), 217-224. Diego, M. A., et al. (1998). Aromatherapy positively affects mood, EEG patterns of alertness and math computations. International Journal of Neuroscience , 96(3-4), 217-224. Friedmann, T. (2001). Vetiver essential oil improves ADHD symptoms in children. American Medical Association Conference .

Our feet are one of the hardest working body parts we have. I don’t need to say much more than that! Let’s dive into some easy, natural home remedies for treating the feet.  FIRST! Why Do Essential Oils Help My Feet? Even though the skin on the bottom of the feet is thick, it has large pores that absorb essential oils effectively. Once absorbed, the oils can enter the bloodstream and exert their therapeutic properties. Depending on the essential oil you choose, you can soothe aches and pains, treat fungal infections, boost circulation for cold feet, eliminate odor, or reduce swelling.  Here are the top 10 essential oils to use for the feet:  1. Lavender Best For:  Relaxation and Sleep Why:  Lavender is known for its calming properties, making it excellent for promoting relaxation and aiding sleep. It can also soothe sore muscles and reduce stress. 2. Peppermint Best For:  Cooling and Revitalizing Why:  Peppermint has a cooling and refreshing effect that can help relieve tired and achy feet. It’s also useful for boosting circulation and providing relief from foot pain or inflammation. 3. Tea Tree Best For:  Anti-fungal and Antibacterial Why:  Tea tree oil is highly effective against fungal infections, making it a good choice for treating athlete’s foot or other foot-related infections. It also has antibacterial properties that help keep the feet clean and healthy. 4. Eucalyptus Best For:  Refreshing and Deodorizing Why:  Eucalyptus oil can help refresh tired feet and eliminate foot odor. Its anti-inflammatory properties are also beneficial for soothing sore muscles. 5. Frankincense Best For:  Skin Health and Immune Support Why:  Frankincense is excellent for supporting skin health, reducing inflammation, and boosting the immune system. It’s also grounding and can help in stress relief. 6. Chamomile Best For:  Soothing and Anti-inflammatory Why:  Chamomile oil is known for its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties. It’s great for calming irritated skin and relaxing the body. 7. Cypress Best For:  Circulation and Reducing Swelling Why:  Cypress oil is beneficial for improving circulation and reducing swelling in the feet and legs. It’s also helpful for soothing varicose veins. 8. Ginger Best For:  Warming and Pain Relief Why:  Ginger oil has warming properties that are effective for relieving joint pain and muscle aches. It’s particularly useful for cold feet and promoting circulation. 9. Rosemary Best For:  Stimulation and Pain Relief Why:  Rosemary oil can stimulate circulation, relieve pain, and reduce swelling. It’s also invigorating and can help with mental clarity. 10. Lemongrass Best For:  Detoxification and Deodorizing Why:  Lemongrass oil is detoxifying and helps eliminate toxins from the body. It’s also effective in reducing foot odor and promoting overall foot health. Since essential oils are straight concentrated therapeutic plant matter, it is imperative to dilute them into an unscented carrier oil or lotion of your choice before applying them topically.  Add up to 12 drops of essential oil per ounce of carrier. Best At-Home Foot Remedies: 3 Different Ways to use Essential Oils to Treat the Feet: 1) Foot Soak, a personal favorite.   Fill a basin with warm water. Add about 6 drops of one (or a blend) of essential oils from above to one tablespoon of carrier oil and add to warm water.  Optionally, mix in Epsom salts for added muscle relaxation and detoxification. Soak your feet for 15-20 minutes. Benefits: Relieves tired feet, reduces swelling, and promotes relaxation. TOPSY TIP: Try a foot soak with The Great Omni Oil ! A multipurpose made-for-you blend that soothes aches and pains while softening overworked feet. So easy to use! No diluting required. :)  2. Foot Massage Dilute up to 12 drops of essential oils to one ounce of carrier and gently massage the oil into your feet, focusing on areas that are sore or tense. Pay special attention to the arches, heels, and toes. Benefits: Eases muscle tension, improves circulation, and provides stress relief. The White Tea Lavender hand, foot, and body lotion makes a nighttime ritual foot rub so simple! The soothing Lavender aroma will help calm the mind and body right before bed for a good night’s sleep. Great for stress release, soothing foot pain, and improving sleep quality.  3) Aromatherapy Compress Soak a cloth in warm water mixed with a few drops of essential oils (like cypress for circulation or lavender for relaxation). Apply the compress to your feet for 10-15 minutes. Benefits: Reduces swelling, soothes pain, and relaxes tired feet. TOPSY TIP:Check out our full selection of high quality therapeutic essential oils ! Added benefit for each of these 3 at home foot remedies: Even though the essential oil is applied to the feet, the aromatic molecules can still be inhaled, providing additional calming effects for the whole mind and body through the olfactory system.  So whether you have tired, achy feet at the end of a long day, cold feet, stinky feet, or swollen feet, there is an essential oil for you. Give one or two of these natural foot remedies a try. Your feet will thank you later!  Questions? Comments? Please feel free to reach out at any time using the contact box below and I’ll get in touch as soon as I can.  Your personal aromatherapist,  Rachel

A simple routine to revitalize your health. I had no idea how important the lymphatic system was until I had severe underarm pain due to swollen lymph nodes. After researching, developing, and using a lymph circulation support body oil daily, I feel the difference not just in the reduction of pain, but I feel energized and feel healthier than I have in a very long time. Here's what I came to learn... For starters, what is the Lymphatic System? The lymphatic system is a hard-working, complex network of tissues, organs, and lymph nodes all interconnected by lymphatic vessels. It carries waste like bacteria and viruses, as well as transports vital immune cells which are essential in fighting off infections and diseases. Often referred to as the “second circulatory system,” the lymphatic system, unlike the heart, does not have a built-in pump to circulate the lymph. Instead, it depends on body movement, breathing, and muscle contractions to circulate the lymph. When the lymphatic system is stagnant, you can experience fatigue, swelling, painful lymph nodes, bloating/fluid retention, and a potentially weakened immune system. To maintain a healthy lymphatic flow throughout your body and ward off these potential health concerns, it’s essential to exercise, drink plenty of water, and practice a simple, manual lymph massage as frequently as you can. This can be done in the comfort of your own home and only takes a few minutes! Best of all, you can use essential oils to not only enhance your mood during your daily massage but also add many more lymph-loving benefits. Essential oils like Juniper Berry, Geranium, Cedarwood, Lemon, and Peppermint can provide added assistance to get the lymph moving and help boost lymphatic drainage. These essential oils are well-known for their ability to detoxify and cleanse the body, promoting the elimination of waste and toxins throughout the lymphatic system. Juniper Berry  has diuretic properties that help reduce water retention. Peppermint  helps stimulate blood circulation and healthy lymph flow. Geranium, Lemon, and Cedarwood  are wonderful anti-inflammatory essential oils that can help reduce swelling and promote lymphatic drainage, aiding in the release and removal of toxins and excess fluid. To keep you inspired, remember these 5 amazing benefits of doing a daily lymph massage: Immune System Support Reduce Water Retention Stimulate Blood Circulation Reduce Swelling Balance Energy Levels It’s important to dilute essential oils properly before topical use. For daily use, add up to 12 drops of one of these lymph-loving essential oils to 1 ounce of your choice of carrier oil (jojoba, apricot kernel, coconut oil). To make it all the more easy and enjoyable, use a topical made-for-you body oil like the Great Omni Oil! This multipurpose head-to-toe “everything” oil was originally developed as a lymph circulation support oil, but it has a myriad of amazing benefits and daily uses. How to do a Simple Lymph Massage at Home A full body lymph massage only takes about 4 minutes, it feels wonderful, and the benefits will not go unnoticed. You can use just your hands to perform this simple lymph massage, but using a lymph-supporting essential oil topical blend can enhance your results and add many other wonderful health benefits! Step-by-Step Lymph Massage: Neck: • Starting at the neck, Place your fingers just above your collarbone. Stroke Downward: Gently stretch the skin downward, moving towards the collarbone. Repeat this motion about 10 times on each side. Neck and Shoulder: • Behind the Ears: Place your fingers behind your ears. Stroke Down: Gently stretch the skin downward towards your collarbone. Repeat this motion about 10 times on each side. Armpits: • Lift Your Arm: Raise one arm to expose your armpit. Circular Motion: Use the opposite hand to gently massage the armpit in a circular motion for about 10 rotations on each side. Arms: • Start at the Wrist: With your arm relaxed at your side, use your opposite hand to gently massage from the wrist moving upwards towards the elbow.  Repeat this motion from elbow to shoulder. Do about 5-10 strokes per section. Abdomen: • Clockwise Motion: Use both hands to gently massage your abdomen in a clockwise circular motion. Start from the right lower side, move up towards the ribcage, across to the left, and then down. Legs: • Start at the Ankles: Sitting or standing, and use both hands to gently massage upwards from the ankles towards the knee. Repeat this motion moving upwards from the knee to the upper thigh. Do about 5-10 strokes per section. Additional Tips: Breathing:  Deep breathing can enhance the lymphatic flow. Take deep, slow breaths during your massage. Gentle, Upward Motions are Key: Using gentle, upward motions towards the heart encourages healthy lymphatic flow and promotes absorption. Make sure the pressure is light, as the lymphatic vessels are close to the surface of the skin. It should not be painful, only enjoyable and relaxing.  Using a Lymph-Loving Body Oil = Added Benefits! Gently massage The Great Omni Oil  into areas where lymph nodes are concentrated, such as the neck, armpits, and groin, using the same light, circular motions. This is best used on tender or puffy areas to help eliminate waste and toxins. Mindfulness: It's a great time for self-love and repeating body-positivity affirmations! "I will allow myself to enjoy perfect health." Consistency:  Daily lymphatic massage can yield the best results over time. Sometimes it's hard to make time for it. To start, aim for 2-3 times per week. Warm Up:  A warm shower or bath before the massage can help relax your muscles and enhance the benefits. Doing this simple massage not only promotes healthy lymphatic flow but also encourages balance and harmony throughout your whole body. I hope you give this a try and experience the joy of fresh flowing energy! Questions? Comments? Please feel free to reach out via the comment box below! I always love to hear from you. Wishing you good health. Your personal aromatherapist, Rachel Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice. Please consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new health regimen, especially if you have any underlying health conditions.

One topic that has been coming up lately is essential oils for hair growth. After going through a serious round of Covid a few years ago, I ended up losing about half my hair! Eek! I haven’t talked about it until now…I’d love to share my research with you on this topic if you or someone you love also has experienced hair loss and looking for a natural way to regrow those lovely locks. The root of hair loss can be difficult to determine. If you’re losing hair unrelated to genetic reasons, it could be from other factors like health, medications, environment, diet, stress, or how tightly you wear your hair. Your healthcare professional can hopefully help you determine the cause. In my case, I had an intense multi-day fever that contributed to clumps of hair falling out for what felt like weeks on end. This started happening a few months after the fever.(1) After completely freaking out, I decided I needed to do something about it and researched like crazy. My search led me to discover a 2015 study shared by world-renowned aromatherapy expert and educator, Robert Tisserand. The study was on hair growth performed with 100 participants.(2) Half of the participants used Rosemary essential oil and the other half used the drug Minodoxil. After 6 months of use, a dermatologist met with each participant and found the Rosemary group had more hair growth, less hair loss, and no side effects (unlike the medicated participants)! I was sold. I tried it. And after consistent use, my hair is back and thicker than it has ever been in my life! Woohoo, Rosemary! I continue to use Rosemary in my shampoo anytime I wash my hair (about 2 times a week). So now you might be wondering how to use it for hair growth! It’s so simple. All you need to do is add a few drops of Rosemary to your usual dollop of shampoo, massage into scalp, and rinse as usual. That’s it! Rosemary is refreshing, uplifting, and not only helps encourage strong healthy, hair, but helps with dandruff too! So many reasons to love Rosemary! It's a versatile essential oil that can be used for an assortment of daily household, skincare, and aromatherapy needs. You can find pure therapeutic-grade Rosemary Essential Oil here! If you have any questions about using Rosemary or anything else you care to share, please feel free to reach out anytime using the contact box below! I always love to hear from you. Resources: (1) Pinnacle Dermatology - Alexandria. Pinnacle Dermatology | Healthy Skin Blog. (n.d.). https://www.pinnacleskin.com/blog/decoding-hair-loss-after-covid (2) Tisserand, H. (2021, April 9). Rosemary Essential Oil is a promising alternative for hair growth promotion!. Tisserand Institute. https://tisserandinstitute.org/learn-more/rosemary-essential-oil-hair-growth-promotion/

Motivate even when all you want is to curl up under a blanket Here we are post-holidays, in the midst of winter, and it's dark and rainy outside. It can be hard to motivate when you want to just curl up with a blanket with a warm cup of tea. Mmm, that sounds nice right about now! But alas, regular busy life continues. "Girl's gotta eat!" So we muster up the energy to go to work, get the groceries, do the laundry, stare at clean laundry in bin for 3-4 days, and eventually put clean laundry away only to find it's already time to do laundry again. Hopefully, your life is more exciting than the laundry cycle, but you get my drift! We don't wanna do these things...but we must. The next time you are needing a little extra motivation, here are your essential oil allies to make today a happier day: Peppermint! Of course. An oil most all of us know and love. Peppermint essential oil is highly energetic and helps refresh and alert the mind. Perfect to start the day or for mid-day lulls. This is a great essential oil to diffuse or inhale if you are focusing on a creative project that needs your full attention. Big fan of Peppermint! Ginger. A warming oil that ignites a fire in your spirit! This is another essential oil that encourages energy and the willpower to tackle your to-dos with more ease. Diffuse or inhale Ginger's strong, spicy aroma to get a jumpstart on your to-dos. Ginger makes a perfect oil to use in the wintertime with it's warming and immune-supportive properties. Kick the colds away with Ginger essential oil! Grapefruit. Grapefruit's sweet and sparkling aroma exudes a sunshiney disposition. If you battle with the seasonal blues, Grapefruit is your BFF. It's a happy oil that is well-known to combat tension and depression. It helps soothe stress and uplift the mind and body. Inhale straight from the bottle, or diffuse to purify your space. Rosemary is known as a central nervous stimulant. It has a strong herbaceous aroma that encourages mental clarity. It can help increase alertness and liveliness. Rosemary has even been known to increase cognitive performance. (Moss, M. and Oliver, L. (2012). Inhaling or diffusing Rosemary is a great oil to use anytime you need to focus your attention on a task. Boosts energy, uplifts the spirit and helps improve concentration and retention of information. If you are often on the go, or work in a space with others who are sensitive to scent, the Sniff & Smile Aromatherapy Inhalers are a perfect pocket-sized tool to use. You truly just sniff...and smile! Two of my favorites to use on busy work days are the Time to Focus inhaler and Pick Me Up inhaler. Time to Focus is blended with organic, therapeutic essential oils of Rosemary, Peppermint, Vetiver, and Lemon to help aid concentration, refresh and uplift the mind, and to increase alertness. Pick Me Up is blended with Peppermint, Ravintsara, Grapefruit, Lemon, and Orange essential oils. Perfect to use first thing in the morning when you wake up, before exercising to maximize your workout, if you are in a mid-day slump, or whenever you need a happy, energizing pick me up. If you are curious how aromatherapy inhalers work, watch this video below! I hope using these essential oils throughout your busy days helps you power through your to-dos with more ease and enjoyment. Wishing you peace & productivity, Rachel, your neighborhood aromatherapist

That’s right, it’s officially snuggle weather It is no wonder spicy, warming scents remind us of the holidays. They bring us warmth just when we need them most during the cold, wintery months. So, cozy up with a pair of fluffy socks, a soft blanket, and warming essential oils! HOW DO ESSENTIAL OILS WARM US UP? In essential oil terms “warming" refers to warmth in two ways- emotionally and physically. Emotionally, these oils can be used to generate motivation, confidence, and energy. This is done by inhaling the spicy notes of these oils’ therapeutic aromas. Great to diffuse on these darker, colder days when we need a little extra help tackling the day’s to-dos. Physically, they increase blood flow! These oils are considered “rubefacient” which means they are known to promote blood circulation, open the blood vessels, and literally warm the area with increased localized blood circulation, which is excellent for topical pain relief. My top 5 essential oils for warming Try one of these favorite warming oils topically to increase blood flow for cozy comforts: Please note- warming oils can be irritating to the skin. These essential oils are not an oil to use willy-nilly on the skin! They are powerful, heavily concentrated plant matter and are to be used with care and caution. It’s best to use proper dilutions when using topically. MY FAVORITE WAY TO WARM UP WITH ESSENTIAL OILS If you want to get super cozy this winter season, try the Sweater Weather essential oil blend! It’s a perfect balance of sweetness of tangerine, lemon, & orange with the warming spice notes of clove, cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg. It truly smells like holiday happiness in a bottle. You can use this blend in a diffuser, on diffuser necklaces or diffuser bracelets, simply inhale out of the bottle, OR dilute for topical use for aches and pains! Whichever oil you try, I hope it brings you a sense of ease and comfort. Feel free to reach out at any time with questions! You can email me at topsyblends@gmail.com :) All the very best to you this holiday season, Rachel, your neighborhood aromatherapist.

It's the holiday season! The "happiest season of all! "The most wonderful time of the year!" *Queue all holiday songs* Manage stress during the holidays, or any season at all! It really the most wonderful time of the year?? For most of us, this season can bring both joy AND a whole lotta stress. Perhaps it’s the heavier workloads, large family gatherings, traveling, gifts to buy…the lights are nice though, right?! If you are stressed, you are not alone. Practicing mindfulness is key for keeping the holidays more merry and less stressful. Tips for calming the mind and body over the months of holiday happenings. Take moments each day dedicated to gratitude. Write or make mental notes of a few things you are grateful for. Grief and stress can EASILY take over our mind in an instant. Discontentment and stress are often fueled by something we feel we are lacking. By flipping the inner narrative's perspective to gratitude, we feel more peace. Bringing attention to what you do have (health, abilities, a thing you love about yourself) can drastically shift your mood to a feeling of more contentment. You can even do this while lying in bed for a minute before your snoozed alarm goes off! Another easy way to recenter the mind is to focus on the breath for a moment. Are you feeling rushed? Are you taking short breaths, or deep, belly breaths? Taking long, diaphragmatic breaths can lower stress levels. Our mind is often piling on more tasks, guilt of things we haven’t yet accomplished, people to take care of, etc. Taking a moment to focus solely on our breath and nothing else for a full minute can help calm our entire being. Lastly, this time of year can feel like SOO many things are happening. With more social events and family gatherings taking place over the holidays, it can feel harder and harder to catch up on mental and physical health. Perhaps the biggest challenge of the holidays is balancing all these gatherings, work, home life, and health. One of the nasty sides of holidays is the feeling of being obligated to attend something. If there are too many events on your plate, and you don’t want or need to attend one of them, what’s the worst that could happen if you don’t? Take a moment to evaluate which events you feel GOOD about going to and which ones you don’t. It should be your choice! It’s for your mental and physical health after all. :) The biggest take away, slowww downnnn. I write a lot of these tips as reminders for myself. They help me release tension in my mind and thus, in my shoulders, low back, feet…you get the idea! I hope they help you too. To make these action steps all the more effective, try pairing them with your favorite stress-relieving essential oils from the list below! It truly just takes a minute to practice retraining negative or busy mental chatter. Of course, it helps to stop and evaluate your thoughts as often as possible, especially as soon as you start noticing your mind slipping into stress mode. Start with a minute and see how good you feel! As Anthony De Mello puts it so simply “Awareness Awareness Awareness.” YOU are the only person who can truly calm your mind down. It’s our mind and subconscious thoughts that we need to become more aware of. The more aware we are of the stress we often cause in our own mind, the easier it is to let the thoughts we don’t want pass through and take less control of us. Over the next month (and months to come) I hope you have more and more peace of mind, moments of stillness, and an ever-growing list of things to be thankful for. Wishing you quality rest, rejuvenation, and cozy holidays, Rachel

"If you don't make time for your wellness, you will be forced to make time for your illness." - Unknown. Rest is imperative to good health. Most of us do not get enough quality relaxation. If experiencing a cancer diagnosis has taught me anything, it’s that you have to listen to your body. You have to rest. You have to self-soothe to calm your mind. A calm mind is what allows us to open up to the healing process. My brother sent me this astute passage by Thich Nhat Hanh from his book The Heart of the Buddha’s Teaching: This goes hand in hand with the popular quote: "If you don't make time for your wellness, you will be forced to make time for your illness." Whether you're facing an illness, or running full steam ahead with a jam-packed schedule, it is of the utmost importance to give yourself time in the day to do absolutely nothing. If you're like me, resting is a challenge. I have always taken pride in working hard, being productive, and being on the go. Many of us are raised with the mentality that if you work hard, you can play hard, but only for 2 days a week! Then back to the grind. This is unnatural, and it takes a while to undo this ingrained sense of pressure to be "on" all the time. Aromatherapy can be an excellent tool to help rewire the brain to help practice the art of rest. Taking a moment to take deep inhalations of a calming essential oil like Lavender, Clary Sage, or Frankincense can help center the mind, release pent-up emotions, and bring your attention to the present moment. When you're looking for a sense of calm, use your sense of smell! Our sense of smell immediately affects our limbic system (the part of the brain that's involved with emotional and behavioral responses) and can help us whenever we need by using calming and stress-relieving tools like soothing Frankincense Essential Oil. Frankincense is one of the most grounding, calming, and restorative essential oils there is. Frankincense has been used since at least 1500 BC for a myriad of uses like purification, embalming, fragrance, and most notably, as medicine. For emotional support, Frankincense helps us quiet the mind to allow mental space for introspection. It encourages emotional healing on all levels and helps support tranquil, focused attention. In addition, for physical support, Frankincense is an effective pain reliever, immune supporter, has anti-fungal and anti-inflammatory properties, and is a renowned skin and wound healing oil. When mental or physical stress comes around, diffusing or applying Frankincense topically is a soothing remedy to help restore balance and peace from the inside out. To help ground and nurture the mind: Add Frankincense to your diffuser Apply topically by adding up to 12 drops of oil to your favorite carrier oil Or, inhale directly out of the bottle. You can also use a handy tool, like the Zen Blend Aromatherapy Inhaler for stress and anxiety relief. It's a perfect pocket-sized companion to take with you wherever you go to help encourage deep breathing when stress hits. Great to use at work, at home, or wherever life takes you. I hope you take some You-time today to rest, rejuvenate, and enjoy this we get to live! Questions? Comments? Please feel free to reach out using the contact box below! I always love to hear from you.

Essential Oils for the Bath Hippocrates, the father of modern medicine, is known to have claimed that the way to health is to have an aromatic bath and scented massage every day. Sounds pretty dang nice to me! Sign me up for that. (Now I just need 2 more hours of free time every day and a lifetime of free massages.) Busy schedules and lengthy to-do lists often get in the way of self-care time. Dedicating a few hours a week to treating yourself to an at-home Spa Day can do wonders for an overworked mind and body. A Spa Day could include yoga, journaling, or meditation in addition to skincare rituals. Gotta give some love to both the mind and body. With baths on the mind, I wanted to share 5 of the best essential oils to soak in. Choosing the best essential oil for your bath depends on personal scent preference and the benefits you’re seeking at the time. Here are 5 excellent essential oils for your next bath: Lavender Essential Oil - Renowned for its calming and relaxing effects, lavender is excellent for reducing stress and promoting better sleep. It can also help soothe sore muscles and relieve tension. Eucalyptus Essential Oil- With its refreshing and invigorating scent, eucalyptus essential oil is commonly used to clear the sinuses and alleviate respiratory issues like congestion and coughs. It can also provide a cooling sensation and relieve muscle aches and pains. Ylang Ylang Essential Oil - With its sweet, floral scent, ylang-ylang is often used for its mood-boosting and aphrodisiac effects. It can help reduce stress and anxiety while promoting feelings of joy and relaxation. A little goes a long way with Ylang Ylang’s strong aroma. Frankincense Essential Oil - Frankincense has a warm, resinous “woodsy” aroma that’s known for its calming and skin-healing benefits. Adding frankincense oil to your bath can help promote relaxation, reduce stress, and ease anxiety. It’s a prized essential oil for use in meditation and spiritual practices as it helps create a sense of peace and helps promote mindfulness. It’s an excellent choice for sensitive, irritated, or dry skin as it deeply nourishes skin as you soak. Sandalwood Essential Oil - Sandalwood has a rich, woodsy aroma that is known for its calming and grounding effects. Adding sandalwood oil to a bath can help promote relaxation, reduce stress, and ease anxiety, making it an excellent choice for unwinding after a long day. It also helps soothe irritated or inflamed skin. In addition to the physical benefits of a warm soak, baths can be an excellent way to get quality alone time to clear your mind, meditate, and release built-up tension and stress. How to add essential oils to a bath: When preparing a bath, you'll likely be using more carrier oil compared to a topical application, as you want to disperse the essential oils throughout the bathwater effectively. It's important to mix the essential oils with a small amount of carrier oil before adding them to the bathwater. This helps to prevent the oils from floating on the surface and reduces the risk of skin irritation. Since heat and steam amplify the effects of essential oils, you will want to use about 5-6 drops of oil per ounce of carrier oil of your choice (like olive oil or coconut oil). You can also add Epsom Salts or Pink Himalayan Salts to increase the physical tension-releasing benefits of your soak! No tub? No troubles. Hydro-Aromatherapy soaking without a bathtub For those of us without a tub, foot soaks in a large bowl can offer many of the same benefits as a full body soak because our feet still absorb the salts and essential oils through the skin through a process called “transdermal absorption.” And of course, you can still bask in the therapeutic aromas. Outdoor foot soaks are one of my favorite summer pastimes. Sit back, plop your feet in the warm aromatic waters, soak up the scents, and enjoy your silky soft feet! Be sure to dilute essential oils into a carrier oil of your choice. Dilute your oils as you would for a bath using the above guidelines. Not enough time in the day for a soak? Try an Aromatherapy Shower! If you’re not much of a soaker, you can also use essential oils in the shower! Simply add a few drops of essential oils to the shower floor (out of the direct stream of water) and let the shower steam do its thing. Peppermint or Eucalyptus essential oil makes for a great energizing morning shower and Lavender or Cedarwood are perfect to destress and relax the mind before bed. A hot aromatherapy shower can reduce stress and anxiety, soothe tension, provide respiratory support, and clear the mind. Take a look at the full line of therapeutic essential oils here! If you’re not one to DIY, try Topsy Blends Spa Day Tranquility Bath Set Or, Treat your Feet with the Self Care Aromatherapy Set to Soothe, Soak, and Soften. So many lovely self-care products to choose from! Questions? Curiosities? Please feel free to get in touch using the contact box below and I’ll be in touch shortly. Wishing you health and harmony, Rachel, your personal aromatherapist

Loving our Skin at Any Age Aging is a natural, humanly occurrence. I’m trying to move away from the term “Anti-Aging” in both my personal and business life. I fully believe in the power of affirmations, and whether it’s conscious or unconscious, if we see continue to see the term “Anti-Aging”, we will grow resentment towards the natural aging process…if we haven’t already! It’s normal for our skin to gradually lose its elasticity and thin itself out. This is part of the skin’s natural aging process. However, there are many different factors of life that can cause the skin to start aging more rapidly and cause premature signs of aging- as well as the contrary! There are also factors that will help slow down the aging process of your beautiful skin! What Causes Premature Aging of Skin? Free Radicals are a large contributor to signs of premature aging. They are molecules that are produced by environmental exposures, like tobacco and radiation (ex. UV rays from the sun and tanning beds). Our body also produces free radicals when it starts breaking down the food we eat.(1) Some of these free radicals are obviously an integral part of life, and some free radicals aren’t even bad. We can’t live without sun and food! The good news, is that we can avoid excess free radicals by incorporating more antioxidants into our diets and in our skincare! Yay for us! What are Antioxidants? Antioxidants are naturally occurring substances that may provide protection against the effects of damaging free radicals on the cells in your body, including your skin. One of the best antioxidants I have found is Vitamin E (tocopherol). “Vitamin E is an antioxidant that is present in the skin and found in various foods, such as vegetables, seeds and meat. It helps the skin look younger by boosting collagen production and in turn reducing the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and age spots. Unlike other vitamins, skin derives more of its benefits from vitamin E better through topical treatments than through oral supplements.”(1) How to Use Vitamin E for Skincare I use Vitamin E in many of my topical products to slow down the oxidization process naturally, instead of using non-natural preservatives. It is a vital skin nutrient in my Radiant Face skincare line! Vitamin E is one of the main ingredients in my Rose Bud Under Eye Antioxidant Serum. In addition to the Vitamin E, this under eye serum is an antioxidant powerhouse comprised of organic Rose Buds, Therapeutic Essential Oils, and Eyebright Herb Extract. Before bed, I use this cream under my eyes, on smile lines, and any blemishes I have. If you are looking to give your skin some extra TLC, slow down free radicals, and boost your youthful glow, this is a great product to try! Love your Skin! No product will completely eliminate or prevent the fact the our skin will wrinkle with time. Our skin does so much for us on a daily basis to protect us. One of the most helpful things you can do for your mind and body is appreciate all your organs and all their hard work- they are functioning without us even having to consciously think about it! In addition to a daily gratitude practice, take good care of your skin with healthy eating, exercise, and all natural products with quality ingredients. If you are looking for an all natural skincare routine, you might just want to check out these antioxidant skincare goods! (1) DermApproved/ Elfakhani 2013 #antioxidant #rosebudserum #youthfulskin #agingskin #aging #undereyeserum #naturalundereyeserum

HOW SELF LOVE PROMOTES BETTER HEALTH With Valentine's Day around the corner, you may be bombarded with advertising and promotions with gift-centered romance themes. I’m not much of a romantic, but I am all about love. It’s impossible to fully love another unless we love ourselves. This is the main reason why I feel Valentine's Day is an added reason to reflect on self-love. Self-love may seem selfish to some, but by filling up your own cup of love, it becomes effortless to share your love and attention with everyone else around you. There is no better way to foster love than by taking moments out of the day to mindfully breathe, turn attention within, and recenter thoughts onto feelings of gratitude for all that we have. This could be in the form of meditation, writing in a gratitude journal, while stretching, or simply spending quiet time alone focusing on the things we love about ourselves, our family, and those we encounter. Essentially, no distractions. No phones or TVs, just experience sweet solitude and silence. Gratitude = Peace, Acceptance, Oneness, and of course, Love. This daily gratitude practice is all the more powerful when accompanied by an aroma that brings you joy and comfort. Our sense of smell is one of the most powerful tools we can use to encourage love, intimacy, and opening up the heart. Just by inhaling essential oils, you make an immediate connection with your limbic system which governs the regions related to emotions and memories. Whether you are looking to release negative self-talk, have more emotional balance, or ignite your sensual spirit, you can use a therapeutic essential oil from the list below to encourage self-love. Essential oils also help keep us present. So when stress and worries get the best of you, turn to one of these essential oils to help refocus your attention which will allow more space for inner stillness. Stress and unhappiness often arise when we are focusing on the things we don’t have or putting blame on someone or something else outside of us. Take your power back. The more we choose to look for things we are grateful for, the more ease and comfort we have in our mind and heart. If you are in a relationship, make mental notes daily of the things you love about the person you're with. Verbally express them. Make them know you are grateful for their presence and actions. The more you share your gratitudes of the simple things like taking out the trash, making coffee in the morning, or making the bed, the more you encourage them to take these loving actions. Of course, be sure to return the favors! If you are feeling lonely, turn this feeling into all-empowered Aloneness. Aloneness is the opposite of codependence. It’s knowing you are whole and complete exactly where you are. The more you love yourself, the more others will love to be around you! Embracing aloneness is a state of being while feeling lonely is an emotion. According to numerous studies, “people who set aside time to be alone tend to be happier. They report better life satisfaction and lower levels of stress. They are less likely to have depression.”*1 Key takeaways, coupled or not, spending quality time alone, even for a few minutes a day, to focus on the various aspects of life to be grateful for, not only gives you more peace of mind and less stress, it encourages love on all levels. Using therapeutic essential oils coupled with a daily gratitude practice amplifies and supports mental and emotional health which in turn amplifies self-love. May your heart overflow with love today and every day, Rachel Resources *1 - Amy Morin. 2023 5-ways-solitude-can-make-you-more-successful-backed-by-science

Whether you celebrate Galentine’s day, a day of self love, or go all out for the full meal deal with your special someone, Valentine's Day a great time to focus on giving and receiving the best gift of all, love.♥ Our sense of smell is one of the most powerful tools we can use to encourage love, intimacy, and opening up the heart. Just by smelling and inhaling therapeutic essential oils, you are making an immediate connection with your cerebral cortex that affects your mood and drive. What better way to foster love on all levels than using aromatherapy! Ignite passion, tune in to your own needs and desires, or open your heart. Here are some of the most prized essential oils that help promote love, sensuality and passion: Geranium - A beautiful oil to expand the imagination and intuition. It also helps open the heart up and allow intimate communication. Ginger - A spicy, but sweet oil that helps spice up vitality and libido. Jasmine Absolute - Incredibly floral and sensual oil that is perfect to help inspire love, boost confidence, and release negative self talk. Perfect to promote optimistic energy! Patchouli - This one kinda has a bad rap due to people overusing it, or using it to mask b.o. but it is SUCH a beautiful oil. Earthy, but deeply calming and balancing to the overall system. It truly is one of the best essential oils for opening the heart and has been traditionally used to ignite sensuality for years and years. Rose Absolute - Need I say more? What says LOVE more than a sweet rose. Rose is an incredible healing oil to nurture the heart and promote love on the deepest of levels. Perfect to help mend wounds of the heart, as well as to open the heart up and focus on self love. Sandalwood - This beautiful oil is excellent for supporting inner unity and promoting sensuality. It has also been used for energetic and emotional protection. Vanilla Absolute - Nothing like the sensual, rich scent of vanilla! It has been known to heighten the senses and can be used for all things romance! Ylang Ylang - Another powerful, rich, floral oil. It is excellent for promoting sensual awakening and encouraged feelings of euphoria while also providing peace and balance within. I also have a variety of love potion aromatherapy blends created just for you. ♥ Blossom Multipurpose Oil with Rose, Vanilla, and Lavender in an herbal infusion for skin, ends of hair, nails, and makes for a lovely, sensual massage oil. ♥ Shine Bright Affirmation roll on with Jasmine, Sandalwood and Sweet Orange + an Oregon Quartz Crystal to amplify the energetic properties of the blend. Great for an everyday perfume to encourage self-love, confidence and to lift the spirit. ♥ Lavender Rose Water - a multipurpose spritzer for an air, body and room spray. Perfect for calming the mind and body, opening the heart and embracing your sensuality. No matter how you spend your Valentine’s Day, I hope your love cup is overflowing! Sending you all the best wishes today and always, Your neighborhood aromatherapist, Rachel ♥

Build your own Natural First Aid Kit with these Outdoor Essentials Spending time in the great outdoors sometimes comes with just a few downfalls- bug bites, scrapes, sunburns, poison oak... Here are some easy D.I.Y. all natural travel-friendly blends to add to your camping checklist to help keep your adventures nothing but sunshine and smiles. :) Yay for sunny adventures! Band-Aid In a Bottle! The Band-Aid in a Bottle can help: • Calm inflammation • Ease pain • Restore damaged skin • Heal small wounds • Relieve itching of a Bug Bite • Reduce itching and spread of Poison Oak • Soothe stress • Reduce germs & Support the Immune System! All while being gentle enough for injured skin! In a 2oz Squeeze Bottle: 1) Add 0.25oz Witch Hazel 2) Fill the rest almost to the top with Aloe Vera Liquid 3) Add Essential Oils: 4 drops Frankincense 10 drops Lavender 10 drops Cedarwood 4 drops Tea Tree 4) Add Cap, Shake well, clean wound, and gently apply as necessary. *Make fresh every couple of weeks as this blend does not contain a preservative. Cool the Burn with This Sunburn Soother! This Sunburn Soother will also help repel bugs, soothe pain and inflammation, soothe headaches, and relieve itchiness! In a 2oz spray bottle: 1) Fill bottle almost to the top with Aloe Vera Liquid 2) Add Essential Oils: 16 drops Lavender 8 drops Peppermint 3) Apply cap, shake well, and spray for a cool down, to soothe sunburns, and to hydrate sun-drenched skin! Apply as often as needed. Store in the fridge or cooler for extra cooling benefits. *Make sure to shake thoroughly before use to combine essential oils and aloe. *Make fresh every couple of weeks as this blend does not contain a preservative. The best essential oils for any outdoor adventure: Lavender: antibacterial, repels mosquitos, soothes bites & sunburns, and great for getting to sleep. Lemon: antibacterial, pain-relieving, astringent, & cooling- also helps remove the stickiness of tree sap! Peppermint: antibacterial, pain-relieving, repels mosquitos, soothes bug bites, & helps cool you down. Tea Tree: antibacterial, anti-fungal, soothes bug bites, repels mosquitos, can be mixed with Aloe to reduce redness and swelling of Poison Oak. If you need any of these supplies to make your Natural First Aid Kit, The Topsy Blends Apothecary has everything you need! Not to mention Natural Bug Spray, SPF antioxidant cream, and SPF rich Red Raspberry Seed Oil! Happy sunny adventures ahead! Your Neighborhood Aromatherapist, Rachel London

Win in the battle against pollen and perennially runny noses Spring Sneeze-in is upon us! This short blog is your guide to a win in the battle against pollen and perennially runny noses. With 5 tips to boost your immune system & 10 natural at-home remedies to help you thrive amongst the spring sniffles. It’s about to be the time of year when we all want to go outside and rejoice that the snow has retreated back to tippy top of the mountains where it belongs and away from my freshly planted flowers! I don’t know about you, but I always jump the gun on planting my garden flowers. Every. Single. Year. I get way too excited on the first sunny day after months of Oregon rain. But alas, with the pretty flowers and sunnier days ahead, come the allergies. BOOO!! Allergies! Literal tears are flowing. I have some handy tips that will help you enjoy springtime to its fullest. These tips are easy, natural, and most importantly, they WORK. For starters, what are allergies and why do 40-60 million Americans annually feel like we’re chopping fresh onions when we’re outside?! Allergy symptoms are caused by your body attempting to do its best to protect you from allergens like grasses, plants, animal dander, bee pollen, dust mites, etc.*(1) Your immune system is scanning these allergens as evil intruders. The allergic reactions you may experience are your cells sending out histamine in which blood vessels expand and cause symptoms like runny noses, itchy/watery eyes, headaches, sneezing, and coughing.*(1) Gee, thanks body! In its defense, your body is on your offense team. It’s just tryin’ to help. To keep allergies at bay, it’s best to support your body in all its tireless efforts to keep you healthy. We can do our part to support our immune system by clearing allergens from our environment and quickly calm these allergy systems with all-natural remedies. Here are ways to support our immune system plus 10 easy, natural tips to clear up allergy symptoms. 5 Ways to support our over-worked immune system naturally: Get plenty of sleep. Sleep is paramount to good health. Stress management. Way easier said than done, but take time out of your day to practice mindfulness and mental relaxation. Essential oils work wonders for stress release! Wash bed linens frequently to prevent allergens and dust mites for accumulating. Bonus- freshen the sheets between washes with Nightly Ritual air & body spray to reduce dust mites and help relax and calm the mind before bed. Use all-natural skincare products. Products made with synthetic ingredients and fragrances are filtered through your blood, which can be harder for your body to process and in turn makes your immune system work much harder than it needs to. By switching to you support both your skin and your body’s immune system. Use all-natural cleaning products for many of the same reasons above! By using essential oil-based cleaning products you are using natural antibacterial agents to remove germs, purify the air (instead of masking the air with non-natural fragrance odor), and also support your immune system. Clean & dust regularly. Think of it as when you use non-natural cleaning and skincare products, you are stressing out your immune system. We don’t want that- My mind does more than enough stress I’d prefer to manage, thank you very much! ESSENTIAL OILS FOR ALLERGIES and how to use them Essential Oil Steam - Calm inflammation and clear your respiratory tract by adding 1-2 drops (no more than that!) of Eucalyptus, Tea Tree, or Respiratory ReLeaf to a bowl of hot water. Close your eyes, cover your head over the bowl with a towel, and breathe deeply in and out for as long as possible. Try to do 2-5 minutes for the best results. Aromatherapy inhalers are the BEST if you are out and about. Particularly the Breathe Easy inhaler. So handy. Diffuse leafy, respiratory-supportive essential oils like Eucalyptus, Ravintsara, Peppermint, Basil, Fir, or the Respiratory ReLeaf blend. This supports your immune system AND helps neutralize airborne allergens in your home. Flush sinuses with water saline solution with a Neti Pot. Use an aromatherapy room spray! Bergamot Forest works wonderfully as an anti-allergen room mist. Herbal Tea: Drink Nettle or Eucalyptus Mint Tea (Traditional Medicinals has a great Breathe Easy tea!) Take an aromatherapy bath. By adding 6-8 drops of Lavender or Eucalyptus to 1 tablespoon of castile soap or a carrier oil of your choice, you can ease stress and tension while opening your breath and supporting your immune and respiratory system. Rub it on. Super stuffed up? Try applying the ReLeaf Rub on your chest, throat, and a small amount under the nose to clear sinus congestion and act as a traditional vapor rub. Sinus Relief Tissues! Add a few drops of Eucalyptus or Respiratory ReLeaf essential oil to the cardboard sides of a tissue box to clear your sinuses every time you grab for a tissue! Try a daily aromatherapy shower by adding a few drops of Eucalyptus, Tea Tree, Peppermint, or Respiratory ReLeaf to the shower flower, out of the direct stream of the shower and create a spa-like steam that opens airways, clears sinus congestions, and awakes the mind and body. Essential Oil Steam Shown Here So, why do essential oils work to help with allergy relief? Essential oils are made up of molecules that relieve inflammation, coughing, phlegm/mucus, runny eyes, and congested airways.*(2) The 2 key components are 1,8 cineole (found in oils like Eucalyptus) and Terpinen-4-ol (found in oils like Tea Tree). 1,8 cineole helps clear breathing and calm inflammation. Terpinen-4-ol is a well known antihistamine, helps reduce inflammation, and relax the muscles. *(2) These are just a few of the benefits that essential oils and natural remedies can offer to support your immune system and give you the relief you need this spring. Questions?! Email me topsyblends@gmail.com and I’m happy to offer more in-depth information and personalized support depending on your needs. With wishes of good health and wellness, Rachel, your neighborhood aromatherapist *(1) https://www.webmd.com/allergies/allergic-reaction-causes#1 *(2) - Jennifer Peace Rhind - Aromatherapeutic Blending

A Brief History of Essential Oils Maybe our modern love of essential oils is rooted in our ancestral DNA. From what we understand today, nature has provided these therapeutic essences since the beginning of the plant kingdom. Cultures all over the world— Rome, Egypt, Greece, India, China, and Europe — have historical evidence of using essential oils for centuries. They have been used for everything from beauty and healing, to ceremonies and food preparation. (1) The first documented use of essential oils was back in 4500 BC. Ancient Egyptians used aromatic oils in cosmetics, perfumes, and ointments as well as for spiritual and physical well-being. (1) Though it’s not documented, it’s believed that aromatic oils were also being used in traditional Chinese and Indian Ayurvedic medicine during the same time. Based on the recorded history (starting as early as 3000 BC), “China and India listed more than 700 substances including cinnamon, ginger, myrrh, and sandalwood as being effective for healing.”(2) There are many prized depictions of Egyptians in ancient pictorials on temple walls showing royalty using essential oils. As the story goes, an excavation team found King Tutankhamen’s tomb in 1922 and found over 50 alabaster jars that were specially carved for essential oils. Previous thieves of the tomb had taken the revered essential oils, but left the gold! (1) The Way to Health The use of essential oils to combat the bubonic plague dates back to the Middle Ages, particularly during the outbreak known as the Black Death in the 14th century. During this time, people turned to essential oils for their purported antiseptic healing properties in an effort to prevent or alleviate the symptoms of the disease. The father of modern medicine, Hippocrates, also fumigated the city of Athens with aromatics to combat the plague, and prescribed aromatic treatments to Greek soldiers. (1) Hippocrates is known to have claimed that the way to health is to have an aromatic bath and scented massage every day. Count me in! Though essential oils had long been considered prized possessions to be used sparingly and with care, Romans used essential oils with sheer decadence. Not only did they scent their hair, body, and beds, but they also lavishly bathed multiple times a day with their oils and had frequent aromatic massages. (1) As history goes, Roman culture was influenced by Greek culture which was influenced by the Egyptians. At least with their use of these precious aromatic oils! The Test of Time We continue to use essential oils in many of the same ways our ancestors did. Today, essential oils are widely used throughout the world for therapeutic purposes ranging from sleep disorders, stress relief, wound healing, aches and pains, skincare, cosmetics, bug bite and sting relief, meditation, and an assortment of aromatic purposes. According to the National Library of Medicine, some essential oils like Lavender, Peppermint and Myrrh are still being used pharmaceutically and soon “could be used effectively as suitable alternatives for many synthetically produced medications.”(2) Perhaps Hippocrates was onto something. Maybe it doesn’t have to be hours of soaking or lavish spa days. Maybe the way to health is as easy as using essential oil-based skincare. Topsy Blends offers a wide range of both natural remedies and luxurious body care made with 100% pure essential oils for cleansing daily rituals proven to stand the test of time. Cheers to good health, Rachel Your personal aromatherapist (1) https://essentialoilsacademy.com/history/ (2) Elshafie HS, Camele I. An Overview of the Biological Effects of Some Mediterranean Essential Oils on Human Health. Biomed Res Int. 2017;2017:9268468. doi: 10.1155/2017/9268468. Epub 2017 Nov 5. PMID: 29230418; PMCID: PMC5694587. (3) https://www.curioushistory.com/the-history-of-essential-oils/