Weight Loss

A key to losing weight is patience. Weight gain happens over time and losing weight obviously takes more than overnight, so be patient and don’t expect to notice changes immediately. Also synergy is an important part of loosing weight.  That is combining all the methods available results in a much higher probability of success.

 Weight Loss Synergy Chart

 

                                     Method                                               Results
                            Eat less foods/calories                                       Fair
                                          and    
                               Eat proper foods                                           Good
                                          and    
                      Exercise/increase metabolism                          Very Good
                                          and    
                  Change attitude/mental compulsions                       Great
                                          and    
                             Use essential oils                                          Excellent 

As the methods of weight control are combined, the results amplify. Often during weight loss, people concentrate on one or two methods. They might exercise effectively and have a motivated attitude, but they continue to eat unhealthy, fattening food. Or they eat less and eat better food, but won’t exercise.
 
Weight loss is most successful when all methods are combined. Together their synergy offers significantly greater results than any single method. Essential oils can be a key to this because they can help with all the methods.

Attitude/Compulsions

Essential oils are a remarkable source of uplift and mental well-being either through diffusion, massage, or baths. Since weight loss takes months of mental resolve and years of follow-up, having this emotional support is an important asset. Oils that strengthen us mentally and emotionally are Cypress, Oregano, Peppermint and a balancing blend. Oils that help us stay on course during times of stress are Lavender andYlang Ylang and an elevating blend. Diffuse these oils in areas where time is spent. Absorbing the oils through the olfactory system provides great benefits and the proper diffuser will also add anions (negative ions) to the air which is a very good positive energy source.

Stress is a major contributor for most people who sometimes “binge” or habitually eat late or eat fattening foods. Prior to mealtimes or as you feel stress induced hunger emerge diffuse, use a shoulder massage, or use a tissue cup using the oils mentioned above. If you have a problem with late night eating or snacking, try running the diffuser where you spend time prior to sleeping to curb late night binges.

Metabolism

Oils that give us energy are Grapefruit, Wild Orange, Peppermint, Rosemary and a citrus blend. These can be diffused or combined with massage. For “on the go” metabolism boosts, carry a tissue cup or inhaler with one of these oils. The aroma will help provide energy during workouts and during times where you feel sluggish.

Appetite suppressant

Dr. Alan R. Hirsch, M.D., F.A.C.P., in Scentsational Weight Loss has documented the following research with clinical trials using double blind sample groups. His research shows that by deeply inhaling the odors of food just prior to eating reduces the amount we eat. Dr. Hirsch suggests that various food odors be inhaled three times in each nostril a short time before eating for this benefit. He later explains that just deeply inhaling the plate of food before starting to eat and eating slowly can provide some of these same benefits. His work reinforces the strong connection between aroma and our physical bodies and how aromatics can be used for healthful benefits.

Using an inhaler or tissue cup, inhale Grapefruit, Peppermint or another favorite oil. Inhale deeply 3 times in each nostril before each meal, or when you feel hungry. Use a different oil each day. Follow this routine by inhaling deeply also from your plate before eating. After 7-14 days of using this routine, you will notice a decreased appetite.

There have been further studies showing that cravings can also be curbed by ingesting Peppermint or Grapefruit oils. One half hour prior to meals add 1-2 drops of these oils to juice. Again use a different oil daily.

Fat burn

A blend of Basil, Lavender, Cypress, and Grapefruit with a carrier oil gives an ointment that is known to reduce or emulsify fat in the body. Full body massage or an aromatic bath can be used.

Diuretic

If fluid retention is part of the problem, then Cypress, Lemon, and Oregano are diuretics. Apply on feet or with a full body massage and diffusion.

Weight loss skin care

As weight is lost, flabby skin and stretch marks will be a concern. A local massage with 2% Lavender in a carrier is effective. Some would also add wheat germ oil to the mixture. 2 part carrier to 1 part wheat germ oil and 2% Lavender.  Also go to Pregnancy for good experiences using oils on stretch marks.

Safety Precautions

With large weight reductions nutrition is important and it is best to consult a licensed health care or nutritional professional.

Oils, blends & products recommended:

Oils & Blends:  Slim & Sassy

BASIC: Cinnamon, Ginger, Grapefruit, Lemon, Peppermint

APETITE SUPPRESSANT: Grapefruit, Patchouli, Slim & Sassy

ATTITUDE: Balance, Cypress, Elevation, Oregano, Peppermint, Lavender, Ylang Ylang

METABLOLISM: Eucalyptus, Grapefruit, Peppermint, Rosemary

FAT BURN: Basil, Lavender, Cypress, Grapefruit

DIURETIC: Cypress, Fennel, Lavender, Lemon, Oregano, Rosemary

Essential oils based products: Life Long Vitality supplements, Slim & Sassy shakes

Suggested protocols:

Editor - In April 2010 dōTERRA introduced a blend of oils trademarked Slim & Sassy that includes the oils Grapefruit, Lemon, Peppermint, Ginger, and Cinnamon for weight management.  Later other products were added to build this strong protocol for weight control.

The full Slim & Sassy weight loss regiment can include three compimentary protocols plus two other helpful habits:

•  Slim & Sassy blend for appetite, stomach, and mood management

•  Slim & Sassy shakes for meal replacement

•  Grapefruit and Slim & Sassy blend for topical cellulite reduction

•  Cleansing and digestive aids

•  Life Long Vitality supplements

Slim & Sassy blend - Slim & Sassy is a blend of essential oils to manage appetite.  Just add 8 drops to 16 oz. of water (regular size bottle of water, use glass or stainless steel container).  Sip your flavored water before, between, and after each of your healthy meals throughout the day to help manage hunger, calm your stomach, and lift your mood.

Slim & Sassy shakes - Slim & Sassy Shakes are a convenient and delicious shake mix providing the essential nutrients of a healthy meal with only 125 calories per serving that may be used as a meal replacement.  Make the shakes as directed (1 scoop full per glass of milk or water) and drink to replace one or two meals per day.

Grapefruit oil and Slim & Sassy blend -  Topically apply Grapefruit essential oil then layer with Slim & Sassy Blend to locations with cellulite and other fatty accumulations.

Cleansing and digestive aids -

·  GX Assist. This is a gastrointestinal cleanse.  Use the GX Assist as directed on the product package (3 caplets per day for 10 days) with meals.  NOTE:  This may be too strong for some (skin reactions or other discomforts as the body detoxifies.  If so reduce to 1 caplet per day for 10 days.

·  PB Assist -  This is a doTerra product that delivers friendly probiotic microorganisms to replenish those required in your intestinal tract to provide additional immune defense against unwanted pathogens .

 

·  Zendocrine Detoxification Complex and Zendocrine blend -  The ZDC is a gentle detoxification of the body's cleansing and filtering organs including the liver, kidneys, colon, lungs, and skin while the ZB strengthens these same organs.  Take the Zendocrine Detoxification Complex caplet once per day as directed on the package.  Add 5 drops of the Zendocrine blend to a capsule and also take once per day.

 

 ·  TerraZyme - This is a Digestive Enzyme Complex for healthy digestion of food and metabolism of nutrients.  Take daily as directed on package

 

 

Lifelong Vitality supplements -

·   Lifelong Vitality supplements.  These supplements include antioxidants, omega fatty acids, vitamins and minerals.  They are a comprehensive dietary supplement program of essential nutrients and energy factors for lifelong vitality and wellness.

 

Other hints and helps

Too strong - The doTerra Slim & Sassy bottle calls for 4 drops per 8 oz of water.  Some find it adequate and refreshing, others do not enjoy the flavor that much and find 4 drops overwhelming.  Don't worry.  If 1-2 drops tastes better to you, it will still be effective.

An alternative - Some would rather take 4 drops in a shot glass with a couple tablespoons of water three times per day about 1/2 hour before meal times, and find it very effective. Others enjoy it better with juice.  Especially fruit juices. Others will put only 1-2 drops with a quart of water to dilute the flavor more, then have 3-4 quarts per day. The key is to be consistent.  People who have been able implement slim & sassy into their daily intake, have felt its power and effectiveness.

Hydration - The Slim & Sassy blend also makes a delicious and healthy flavored water for proper hydration during exercise or other activity. It has zero calories and is an excellent replacement for high-calorie beverages or for drinks that contain artificial sweeteners and colors.

Aromatically - Slim & Sassy can be used aromatically by diffusing in your home or personal office space or by simply applying a few drops to the palms, then cupping your hands and breathing deeply for a moment of calm and meditation as you reprogram your body to your new healthy lifestyle.


A body that is trim and fit is not only attractive, but also supports a lifetime of energy and vitality, and can help prevent the accelerated onset of many degenerative diseases. Managing weight and healthy body composition is primarily a matter of expending more calories than we consume. Eating less food (quantity) and improving our food selections (quality) along with increasing physical activity is the best way to experience permanent and healthy weight loss.
 
Eating Less - Food can be both physically and emotionally pleasurable. When we are hungry, our bodies send powerful signals through various physiological pathways to let us know it is time to eat. When we respond by eating, equally powerful signals reward us for responding to our bodies’ desires. These signals are influenced over time by how much we eat, what we eat, and why we eat.
Most people in the developed world consume more calories than required for supporting healthy and vibrant life function. Reducing the amount of calories we consume when dieting can be difficult if our bodies are conditioned to high-calorie diets. Eating more healthy foods in smaller amounts throughout the day, using a dietary supplement of essential nutrients, and participating in a regular exercise program can help change unhealthy signals to eat more than we need or to eat for the wrong reasons.

Healthy Hydration - Many unhealthy “diet” potions use diuretics that cause the body to release water resulting in short-term weight loss, but also resulting in dehydration and other negative health consequences. Drinking water regularly throughout the day can help support efforts to eat less calories. Proper hydration is also essential for metabolic functions throughout the body and supports cellular energy and activity.

Cautions: Slim & Sassy is safe to use aromatically, topically or internally when used as directed. Because it contains citrus essential oils that may increase photosensitivity in the skin, it is recommended that you avoid sunlight or UV rays for up to 12 hours after topical application. Do not use directly in eyes, ears, or nose. Keep out of reach of children. If pregnant or under a doctor’s care, consult your physician.

 

Ulcers

Ulcers in the digestive tract are open sores that may cause bleeding and pain.  Peptic ulcers may be in the stomach (gastric ulcers) or the first part (duodenum) of the small intestines (duodenal ulcers).  They may also occur in the esophagus (esophageal ulcers).  There are three factors that individually or collectively cause problems.

 ·  Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori), an infectious bacteria, is the primary cause of peptic ulcers.  A layer of mucous lines the walls of the stomach as a protection.  The H. pylori bacteria is able to penetrate this mucous layer and thrive in stomach environment.

·  The painkillers that are identified as NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) can also cause ulcers and be especially damaging if the H. pylori has already thinned or penetrated the mucous membrane.  NSAIDs include aspirin, ibuprofen (Advil, Midol, Motrin, Nuprin), naproxen (Aleve, Anaprox, Naprosyn), or piroxicam (Feldene) and many other prescription drugs.  Coated aspirin and other medications can also be harmful.

·  Finally lifestyle and excess acid production in the stomach itself can be sufficient to breach the mucous protective layer.

Spicy foods or stress have been ruled out as factors for peptic ulcers.

Symptoms of ulcers range from none at all to bloating, heartburn, nausea.  In extreme cases there can be abdominal pain, loss of energy, weight loss, vomiting, or dark stools (bleeding ulcer).  Pain is felt in abdominal region and is most severe a few hours after meals as the stomach becomes empty.

Oils, blends & products recommended:

Oils & Blends:  DigestZen, Frankincense, Geranium, Lemon, Lemongrass, Peppermint

Essential oils based products: PB Assist

Also consider: Basil, Clove, Oregano, Roman Chamomile

Suggested Protocols:

For immediate relief add 2 - 4 drops of Peppermint to a small amount of water or juice and drink.

For long term healing add to a 00 capsule:

·   4 drops DigestZen

·   4 drops Lemongrass

·   4 drops Frankincense

Take 2 times per day.

For children:  Rub the above blend on their tummy 2 times per day.

dōTERRA Essential oils does not prevent, treat or cure disease. Your lifestyle choices can help prevent disease. Your doctor treats symptoms and fixes broken parts. Your body cure disease!

Diarrhea

Diarrhea is loose, watery, and frequent stools.  The most common causes of diarrhea are

•  a mild viral infection known as viral gastroenteritis.  This is also known as the stomach flu.

•  Traveler’s diarrhea or Montezuma’s revenge is described in more detail below.

Other causes are food poisoning, food allergies, reactions to medications or medical procedures, and as a side effect of more serious health concerns such as Crohn’s, diabetes, and ulcerative colitis.

Traveler’s diarrhea (Montezuma’s revenge) is a common difficulty of those that travel. This is usually a bacterial infection but can be from a variety of viruses and parasites.  Diarrhea is the most common symptom and may be accompanied by abdominal pain, fever, gas, loss of appetite and vomiting depending on the infectious agent. The most common bacterial infection for travelers is E. coli, viral is viral gastroenteritis and parasitical are giardiasis and cryptosporidiosis. For other gastric infections also refer to the following related pages dysentery, food poisoning, stomach flu.

    E. coli enteritis is the common food poisoning to those that travel.  Meats that have not been handled properly, unsanitary food preparation areas, dairy or foods with mayonnaise not properly refrigerated or undercooked eggs or meat are all possible sources.

     Symptoms usually occur with in 24 to 72 hours of infection.  Sudden severe diarrhea that may be bloody is the most common symptoms.  Others symptoms may include abdominal pain, fever, gas and/or loss of appetite.  Vomiting is rare.

    Viral dysentery or also referred to as viral gastroenteritis or stomach flu is a viral infection and can come from a variety of viruses including adenovirus, astrovirus, caliciviruses, norovirus and rotavirus. The latter two being common among children while caliciviruses is a more common infectious agent among adults. None of these virus strains are related to those responsible for the common cold or flu (influenza) that affect the respiratory system.

     Symptoms appear rapidly after contacting the infection, usually with 4 to 48 hours.  Symptoms usually will include some abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting then followed with diarrhea. A low-grade fever and headache may also occur but symptoms will usually differ from respiratory influenza (the flu) which typically will include high fever, muscle aches, fatigue and respiratory congestion.

    Giardiasis, and cryptosporidiosis (Giardia lamblia, and Cryptosporidium parvum) are each protozoa that infect the digestive tract and develop a mild form of dysentery commonly referred to as traveler’s diarrhea (Montezuma’s revenge).

     Symptoms of giardiasis infection are delayed about 1 to 3 weeks after exposure.  When symptoms appear the include bloating with foul smelling gas, headaches, low-grade fever, nausea and vomiting.  Cryptosporidiosis infection is typically milder but may include heavy diarrhea starting 7 to 10 days after exposure, nausea and vomiting.  Usually no fever.

A quick note on the terms associated with digestive tract infections.

Common medical terms
	Gastroenteritis is the general term for infection (bacterial, viral, parasitical or toxins) that leads to inflammation of the mucous membrane of the digestive tract.
	Dysentery, a subset of gastroenteritis, primarily affecting the colon. Infection is commonly from parasites but can also be bacterial, viral or toxic. Most common are amoebic, giardia and cryptosporidium that all come from protozoans (single cell parasites).
	Gastritis, a subset of gastroenteritis, is specifically inflammation of tissue in the stomach.
	Diarrhea is a common symptom of various forms of gastroenteritis. Some use this term interchangeably with dysentery.
Common lay terms
	Food poisoning can lead to gastroenteritis and primarily describes what and how the infectious agents come into the body.
	Stomach flu (viral gastroenteritis) is a subset of gastroenteritis caused by a viral infection from a number of viruses (but unrelated to those that cause the common cold and flu).
	Traveler’s diarrhea (Montezuma’s revenge) is the lay term used for gastroenteritis (bacterial or viral) common to folks traveling to new areas and exposed to new infectious agents.

 

Oils, blends & products recommended:

Oils & Blends:  DigestZen, Fennel, Ginger, Peppermint, Sandalwood

Essential oils based products: GX Assist, PB Assist

Also consider: Cinnamon, Cypress, Eucalyptus, Geranium, Roman Chamomile

Suggested protocols:

DigestZen may be taken internally or topically.  Internally add 3 - 4 drops to a swallow of water or juice.  Topically apply 3 - 4 drops to the lower stomach area.

For children and babies apply topically and dilute with a carrier oil. For infants the oils will be effective when applied to the bottoms of the feet.

Ginger and Peppermint are also good to settle upset stomachs.

Cinnamon or cassia applied topically to the lower stomach area with a carrier oil are specifically helpful for diarrhea.

Bacterial, Viral or Parasite?

If the type of infection is known consider augmenting with an oil effective for that infection if it is not included in the protocol above.

ANTIBACTERIAL: basil, cassia, cinnamon, clove, cypress, eucalyptus, geranium, Lavender, Lemon, Lime, Marjoram, Melaleuca, Myrrh, On Guard, Oregano, Peppermint, Rosemary, Thyme, Wild Orange

ANTIVIRAL: basil, cassia, cinnamon, clove, eucalyptus, Frankincense, Helichrysum, Lemon, Lemongrass, Marjoram, Melaleuca, Melissa, Myrrh, On Guard, Oregano, Thyme

PARASITES: cinnamon, DigestZen, Lemon, Melaleuca, Mountain Savory, On Guard, Oregano, Roman Chamomile, Thyme

dōTERRA Essential oils does not prevent, treat or cure disease. Your lifestyle choices can help prevent disease. Your doctor treats symptoms and fixes broken parts. Your body cure disease!

To purchase, visit our webstore HERE

Constipation

Constipation usually includes infrequent bowel movements and/ or strained bowel movements and hardened stools.  Fewer than 3 to 4 bowel movements in a week would be considered constipation and rectifying procedures should be taken.

Constipation, as with other digestive system disorders, can be symptomatic of other root causes.  While treating this symptom do not ignore what might be the underlying cause of the problem whether diet, emotional stress, or disease (pain medication often causes constipation).

Oils, blends & products recommended:

Oils & Blends: DigestZen, Marjoram, Rosemary

Essential oils based products:

Also consider: Cassia, Ginger, Lemon, Peppermint, Sandalwood, Thyme

Suggested Protocol:
To relieve the symptoms use DigestZen neat (undiluted) or Marjoram and/or Rosemary in 50% dilution with a carrier oil massaged on the abdomen or taken internally will help. Other oils listed above will also provide relief. 

 
dōTERRA Essential oils does not prevent, treat or cure disease. Your lifestyle choices can help prevent disease. Your doctor treats symptoms and fixes broken parts. Your body cure disease!

Bones Broken

Broken or fractured bones can occur anywhere in the body.  They can vary from simple greenstick fracture in a child requiring minimal care to crushing injuries involving multiple bones, tendons, and ligaments with complex displacements requiring intense surgery, plates, screws and months of physical therapy.

There are a number of types of fractures, we list here just a few of the common types:

·  Greenstick Fracture : Bone is not broken completely through the full diameter

·  Transverse Fracture : in this the fracture is at a right angle to the bone's long axis.

·  Spiral Fracture : in this at least one part of the bone has been twisted.

·  Comminuted Fracture : in this the fracture results in several fragments.

·  Stress Fracture : It is a common overuse injury. It is most often seen in athletes who run and jump on hard surfaces such as runners, ballet dancers and basketball players.

·  Open Fracture : An open fracture is a fracture where the broken bone is exposed. That is dangerous because of increased chances of infection.

Signs that there is a fracture and medical attention should be sought include:

·  severe pain, especially with movement of the limb

·  swelling

·  if there is deformity in the limb or an open wound

·  if there is difficulty in moving the injured limb or numbness and tingling indicating nerve damage.

Essential oils of course cannot reposition or splint a fracture but they can hasten the healing process and reduce the discomfort during healing.

Oils, blends & products recommended:

Oils & Blends:

·    Pain relief - Deep Blue, Wintergreen

·    Helps in Healing - Birch (bone repair), Cypress (circulation), Helichrysum (nerve damage, tissue regeneration), Lemongrass (ligaments), Marjoram (tissue rebuilding), and White Fir (anti-inflammatory).

·    Stress relief - Balance, Lavender 

Essential oils based products: Life Long Vitality supplements for proper nutrients.

Also consider: Clove, Eucalyptus, Ginger, Oregano, Vetiver

 

dōTERRA Essential oils does not prevent, treat or cure disease. Your lifestyle choices can help prevent disease. Your doctor treats symptoms and fixes broken parts. Your body cure disease!

Back Pain

Back pain is a common term covering a wide variety of situations primarily centered around the spinal column.  The spinal column is not only a major structural member of the human anatomy but it also houses the spinal cord, a key part of the Central Nervous System and the primary conduit for exchange of information between the Peripheral Nervous System (limbs, organs, and glands) and the brain.  Injury or disease to the vertebrae, discs, or the spinal cord can all be the source of back pain.

Also, since nerve signals from the Peripheral Nervous System travel through the spinal column, injury or disease of the spine can lead to improper function or “mixed signals” in these other parts of the body.  Listed below are common types of back problems and also a simplified chart showing which of the vertebrae is the critical point where nerves leave the spinal column to service various parts of the body.

Muscle Strain

With heavy or awkward lifting, repeated uncomfortable actions, over exertion, or with a fall or other type of accident the muscles in the back can be strained resulting in aching pain that can last for days.

Whiplash

This is the common term for the injury resulting from an abrupt jerking motion of the head resulting in an injury to the neck.  Common in our day of auto crashes.

Disk degeneration

The disks between the vertebrae provide a cushion and flexibility to the spine.  They may be damaged through accident or degenerate with age.   Typically with age the outer covering of the disc will weaken causing the disc to bulge and to flatten.  The flattening can eventually cause bone to bone contact between vertebrae and become a source of pain.  The bulging can put pressure on the adjacent nerves and be another source of pain.  If the bulging adds enough pressure the disc may rupture which is termed a herniated disc.  The pain in these cases can be dull and achy or become sharp and shooting in acute situations.

Sciatica 

The sciatic nerve is a large nerve pair that travels from the lower spine to the legs and feet.  The nerve transitions from the spine from the L4, L5, and S1 locations which are in the lower part of the back.  These are structurally susceptible to stress with all the pressure that can be applied to this part of the back.  If the nerves are pinched or damaged it will result in pain, numbness, or weakness in any area from the lower back to the feet.

Facet joints

The vertebrae are linked together with the facet joints (see diagram).  These joints can degenerate with arthritis or age.  As they degenerate they can become inflamed and painful.  Prolonged sitting or remaining in one position can exacerbate the pain and standing or flexing the back can provide some relief.  Over time this can lead to osteoarthritis.

Osteoarthritis

As the facet joints deteriorate the body may try to compensate by producing a bony growth commonly called a bone spur.  This bony structure can narrow the passages that nerves go through and result in pressure on those nerves.

Failed Back Syndrome

Many journals now list this as a common back problem.  This is the result of back surgery that has left the person with no improvement or even a worsened condition.  Statistics now suggest that this happens in 15 to 40 percent of back surgeries.

Spinal stenosis

This is a narrowing of any of the channels that carry nerves thereby putting pressure on the nerves.  It is a term that applies to many of the conditions above.  It can result in pain, numbness and/or loss of strength in limbs and can affect bladder and bowel functions as well.

The Central Nervous System (brain and spinal cord) are connected to other parts of the body through the Peripheral Nervous System.  If damage is done to the spine it can have an effect on other parts of the body.  The chart below is a simplified diagram of where various nerves leave the spinal column traveling to other limbs, organs, and glands of the body.



Oils, blends & products recommended:

Oils & Blends:  Balance, Birch, Deep Blue, Frankincense, Helichrysum, White Fir, Wintergreen

Essential oils based products: AromaTouch Technique, Deep Blue Rub

Also consider: Basil, Cypress, Eucalyptus, Lavender, Lemon, Marjoram, Myrrh, Oregano (use Oregano topically with a carrier oil), Peppermint, Rosemary, Sandalwood, Thyme

Suggested protocols:

Back pain many times includes the following scenario:

1) There is an injury or degeneration that leads to damage of nerve, muscle, or connecting tissue.  With the back most commonly nerve pressure or damage is involved.

2)  Pain may be accompanied by loss of feeling and/or loss of strength

3)  Inflammation compounds the pressure on the nerve

4)  As the back muscles try to compensate there are often muscle spasms or cramps in the back area that add additional pressure and intense pain.

This leads to the conclusion that the protocol should include:

1)  Oils for immediate pain relief

2)  Oils for inflammation reduction

3)  Oils to relax muscles and eliminate the spasms

4)  Oils for increased circulation to facilitate quicker healing

5)  Oils that heal and rebuild the damaged tissue 

BEST TO START HERE:

·  The single best possible step is to use the AromaTouch Technique described elsewhere on this website.  Daily if possible.  Follow with a hot compress.

·  Supplement this with the oils listed below.

THEN COMBINE WITH THESE (as necessary):

Oils for immediate pain relief:

·  Deep Blue, Birch, or Wintergreen

·  Apply 2 -3 drops topically to the area where the pain is manifested as often as required or use Deep Blue Rub.  (For some Wintergreen may need to be applied with a carrier.)

·  To make the AromaTouch Technique or other oils and blends applied to the back more effective use a hot compress after the application to drive the oils deeper into the tissues and muscles.

Oils to reduce inflammation:

·  Basil, Bergamot, Black Pepper, Myrrh, Roman Chamomile, Rosemary, or Wintergreen

·  Apply topically to spinal area.  This is the location on the spine where the nerve is being pinched and will probably be different that where numbness or lack of strength or even muscle cramps occur.  For example, if numbness and loss of strength is in the leg then the lower back area where the sciatic nerve originates may well be where there is nerve compression.  Two or three drops topically 2 - 3  times daily.  (For some Wintergreen may need to be applied with a carrier.) 

Oils to relax muscles and eliminate spasms:

·  AromaTouch, Lime, Marjoram, Roman Chamomile

·  Apply 2 - 3 drops topically to the area where the spasm is occurring.

Oils to increase circulation:

·  Citrus Bliss, Cypress, Eucalyptus, Geranium, Lemon, or Peppermint

·  Apply 2 -3 drops topically to the spinal area 2 -3 times per day

Oils to strengthen and regenerate tissue:

·  Frankincense, Helichrysum, or Sandalwood

·  Apply 1 -2 drops topically to the spinal area 2 -3 times per day followed by a hot compress

Also consider:

·  Baths with oils will help relaxation

·  Diffusion of Citrus Bliss, Lavender, or other relaxing oils at bed time will help


dōTERRA Essential oils does not prevent, treat or cure disease. Your lifestyle choices can help prevent disease. Your doctor treats symptoms and fixes broken parts. Your body cure disease!

Migraine

Migraine headaches are a moderate to severe throbbing sensation that lasts a few hours or sometimes for days.  The precise reason for this type of headache is not know but one description of the sequence of physiological events is as follows:

Migraine headache is caused by vasodilatation (enlargement of blood vessels) that causes the release of chemicals from nerve fibers that coil around the large arteries of the brain. Enlargement of these blood vessels stretches the nerves that coil around them and causes the nerves to release chemicals. The chemicals cause inflammation, pain, and further enlargement of the artery. The increasing enlargement of the arteries magnifies the pain.

     Migraine attacks commonly activate the sympathetic nervous system in the body. The sympathetic nervous system is often thought of as the part of the nervous system that controls primitive responses to stress and pain, the so-called "fight or flight" response, and this activation causes many of the symptoms associated with migraine attacks; for example, the increased sympathetic nervous activity in the intestine causes nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. 

•    Sympathetic activity also delays emptying of the stomach into the small intestine and thereby prevents oral medications from entering the intestine and being absorbed. 

•    The impaired absorption of oral medications is a common reason for the ineffectiveness of medications taken to treat migraine headaches.

•    The increased sympathetic activity also decreases the circulation of blood, and this leads to pallor of the skin as well as cold hands and feet. 

•    The increased sympathetic activity also contributes to the sensitivity to light and sound sensitivity as well as blurred vision.

 from MedicineNet.com

Some sufferers from migraines say that there are signs that signal when a migraine headache is coming on.  This includes signs such as tingling, light flashes, or other warnings that can suggest taking some preventative measures.  For many the headache is accompanied by sensitivity to light, loud sounds, and may include an upset stomach or even nausea.

Triggers for migraines vary from person to person and are not always predictable (do not always trigger the migraine) in an individual.  Some of the reported triggers for migraines include: stress, sleep disturbance, fasting, dehydration, dietary changes, hormone changes, bright or flashing lights, allergies, chocolate, wine, certain odors, cigarette smoke, and caffeine.

An important step in helping with migraines is to determining from experience for an individual what triggers their migraines. By finding the triggers, one can anticipate them and use the habits of diet and lifestyle coupled with the essential oils to mitigate them.  The tab above for Suggested Protocols will have some of the most commonly suggested helps and the tab Experiences & Testimonials will include other's experiences.

Oils, blends & products recommended:

Oils & Blends:  Deep Blue, Frankincense, Lavender, Marjoram, PastTense, Peppermint

Essential oils based products: Life Long Vitality supplements

Also consider: Basil, Birch, Eucalyptus, Ginger, Roman Chamomile, Rosemary, Wintergreen 


dōTERRA Essential oils does not prevent, treat or cure disease. Your lifestyle choices can help prevent disease. Your doctor treats symptoms and fixes broken parts. Your body cure disease!

Headaches

Headaches can be triggered by many different conditions but the typical result is the nerves in the head muscles and blood vessels of the head signal the brain that there is pain.   The triggers can be anything from a blow to the head, disease, to emotional distress.  There are many different types of headaches documented in the literature (over 150) but the most common are:

 

    Tension headaches – These are the most common headache that most people will experience from time to time.  Tightness is felt in areas around the head that results in mild to moderate pain.  The more common areas are the back of the neck, the temples, or the forehead.  The cause is not yet fully understood.

    Chronic daily headaches – If there are repeated tension headaches from day to day it is labeled chronic daily headaches. 

    Migraine headaches –  A migraine is a much more painful experience.  This can be a moderate to severe throbbing sensation that lasts a few hours or sometimes for days.  Again the precise reason for this type of headache is not yet know.  Go to Migraines for more information.

    Cluster headaches – This is one of the most severe of headaches.  The name is because they come in repeated frequent attacks or “cluster periods”.  The attacks may be 2 or 3 times a day and may last from weeks to months.  They may then go away for months or even years.  They often begin in the middle of the night while someone is asleep.  The pain is usually on one side of the head or the other and typically right behind the eye.  The pain is intense, constant, and throbbing making it almost impossible to function normally.

    Sinus headaches – When the membranes of the sinus cavities become inflamed and swollen there can be pressure around the eyes, cheeks, and forehead area where these cavities are located.  This pressure then can result in a sinus headache.

    Acute headaches – Typically seen in children these headaches come on suddenly and last for a short time.

    Hormone headaches – Changing hormone levels during menstruation, pregnancy, or menopause may trigger headaches.  This may also include hormone changes with medications such as birth control pills.

Essential oils have a well-deserved reputation for helping with headaches. The tab above for Suggested Protocols will have some of the most commonly suggested helps and the tab Experiences & Testimonials will include other's experiences.

Oils, blends & products recommended:

Oils & Blends:  Deep Blue, Frankincense, Lavender, Marjoram, PastTense, Peppermint, Rosemary

Essential oils based products:

Also consider: Basil, Clove, Eucalyptus, Ginger, Lemon, Lemongrass, Wintergreen

Suggested Protocols:

Mild tension headache:

•  A drop or two of Peppermint oil rubbed on the temples, forehead, and/or back of neck is a simple and effective solution for most.

•  PastTense is a blend of oils in a handy roll on dispenser that is also very effective and more convenient.

Sinus headaches:

•  To relieve immediate pain PastTense or Peppermint as described above will be helpful.

•  Also attend to the sinus infection as described under Sinus Infections.

More severe headaches:

•  Use Peppermint or PastTense as described previously but follow with a damp, cool compress using a clean hand towel. Apply this compress to the forehead and closed eyes and/or the back of the neck, while resting for a few minutes. Repeat as often as needed and schedule will permit.  A few drops of an oil may be put directly on the damp towel to extend the help.  Keep oils away from eyes.

•  Some will find an inhaler or using cup and inhale may prove advantageous.

•  Different bodies and conditions will respond differently to oils. Sometimes it is necessary to rotate or try different oils. 

dōTERRA Essential oils does not prevent, treat or cure disease. Your lifestyle choices can help prevent disease. Your doctor treats symptoms and fixes broken parts. Your body cure disease!