This is a recipe that’s been around for centuries. Its name came about as many of the grave robbers would apply this to their hands before robbing the graves of those who died from the plague, some how seeming to keep themselves healthy and plague free.
I can’t guarantee any sort of immunity to the plague with this of course, but what we do know is that the herbs and ingredients in this recipe have many antimicrobial and antiviral properties. Any medicinal food taken regularly (if in alignment with your body), has the ability to gently strengthen and bolster your system. A small thing, but we do know that many small things, done over time, make a significant difference.
The classic formula includes 4 ingredients (hence the name): Sage, mint and rosemary and thyme.
I’m including recipes for vinegars which you can take internally, as well an essential oil blend that you can use topically or to purify the air etc.
I’ve included two different vinegar recipes, just showing you the variations that are possible. So if you don’t have all the ingredients, or you really don’t care for the taste of one, you can modify with some of the other ingredients as all of the below have some of the helpful healing properties we are looking for!
Classic:
¼ cup of fresh chopped peppermint,
¼ cup of fresh rosemary,
¼ cup of fresh thyme, and
¼ cup of fresh sage leaves*
4 cloves fresh crushed garlic
2 cups of apple cider vinegar
A pint sized mason jar with a lid.
Directions:
Strip the herbs from their stems and roughly chop them. You want to smell the herbs but don’t worry about chopping them too finely
Crush, chop or press the garlic
Place the herbs and crushed garlic into the mason jar.
Add enough vinegar to fully cover the herbs fully fill the jar.
Refrigerate or leave in a cool place for 5 to 7 days then strain the liquid into a clean glass jar. Discard the herbs and voila! You have yourself some thieves vinegar.
This can be used in salad dressings, as a morning elixir with warm water and honey (this is also great for moving Liver energy in Eastern Medicine, so wonderful if you’re feeling a bit irritable or pent up from being at home for too long!) or straight up as a drinking vinegar shot. Just a note that vinegar is hard on tooth enamel so be mindful to brush your teeth after taking to prevent any erosion. About 1 tbsp is plenty to take daily.
Thieves vinegar Variation
Ingredients:
2 tablespoons fresh lavender, chopped
2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
2 tablespoons fresh mint, chopped
2 tablespoons fresh sage, chopped*
2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped
2 tablespoons fresh marjoram, chopped
2 tablespoons fresh anise, chopped
4 cloves of garlic, peeled and crushed
½ teaspoon black peppercorns, crushed
4 whole cloves, crushed
raw apple cider vinegar
You’ll also need a pint mason jar with a lid for this one.
Strip the herbs from their stems and roughly chop them. You want to smell the herbs but don’t worry about chopping them too finely
Crush, chop or press the garlic
Place the herbs and crushed garlic and rest of the ingredients into the mason jar.
Add enough vinegar to fully cover the herbs fully fill the jar.
Refrigerate or leave in a cool place for 5 to 7 days then strain the liquid into a clean glass jar. Sometimes I will do another round of vinegar with the same herbs or use them in cooking to get a milder, but still tasty version.
Modifications:
Drink
Add a tbsp to warm water and drinking with raw honey**
This is great for soothing a sore dry throat and the vinegar is helpful for moving energy which is good for helping circulation and calming stress and anxiety
Dressing
2 TBS of the Four Thieves
2 TBS plain apple cider vinegar
¼-1/3 cup of olive oil
1 tsp tahini or grainy mustard
salt and black pepper ti taste
1 tsp raw honey**
Shake and pour over steamed greens, a warm salad, rice or fresh greens
Avoid sage in concentrated doses If you’re pregnant , and don’t use this as a tonic – just use it in cooking occasionally as a salad dressing ingredient
Sage can also dry things so be mindful if breastfeeding as it may contribute to drying milk if taken in large doses
** avoid raw honey if pregnant or for children under 6 years old and opt for pasteurised instead
Thieves oil
Uses
• Natural Cleanser – The herbs used in this recipe posess strong antimicrobial effects and vinegar, in any case, makes an excellent natural cleanser. Fill a spray bottle with the vinegar and use it to clean and sterilize kitchen counters and bathrooms.
• Astringent – Dilute some vinegar with water and use as a cleansing agent or astringent for the skin.
• Insect Repellant – Fill a spray bottle with 1/4 cup of vinegar and top with filtered water. Spray on skin, clothes, etc. to deter pesky bugs.
• Seasoning – Use as a seasoning for braised meats and vegetables or make a vinaigrette dressing for salads.
• Immune Booster – Use like Fire Cider and take a teaspoonful several times a day to prevent cold/flu
Research into thieves oil itself is very limited. An older study found that diffused thieves oil significantly lowered the airborne levels of three different types of bacteria.
A lot more research has been done on the benefits of the individual components of thieves oil.
What’s discussed below is a snapshot of some of the research that’s been performed on the individual plant oils often used in thieves oil blends.
Also keep in mind many of these studies are done on animals. More research is needed to confirm these findings in humans.
Benefits of individual oils
Antimicrobial properties
A 2017 studyTrusted Source found that low concentrations of cinnamon and clove oil had high antimicrobial activity against persistent cultures of Borrelia burgdorferi, the causative agent of Lyme disease.
A 2018 studyTrusted Source found that vapors of cinnamon oil inhibited the growth of respiratory pathogens like Haemophilus influenzae and Streptococcus pneumoniae in a petri dish. But eucalyptus oil had little activity.
A 2012 studyTrusted Source showed that eucalyptus oil had antimicrobial activity against two types of bacteria that can cause disease in humans: Escherichia coli (E. coli) and Staphylococcus aureus (skin infections).
Overall, fewer studies have been performed on lemon oil. But twoTrusted Source studiesTrusted Source from 2019 observed that it has some antimicrobial properties.
Wound healing
A 2019 studyTrusted Source in mice found that topical application of cinnamaldehyde, a component of cinnamon oil, promoted wound healing. It also reduced the amount of bacteria in wounds infected with Pseudomonas aeruginosa.
A 2018 studyTrusted Source in rats found that a specialized emulsion preparation containing eucalyptus oil promoted wound healing.
Pain relief
A 2019 studyTrusted Source in mice looked at potential pain-relieving effects of eucalyptus oil. Researchers found that injecting or inhaling eucalyptus oil might be effective in relieving some types of pain.
Effects on mood
A very small 2013 studyTrusted Source investigated the effects of inhaling rosemary oil on mood. By recording and comparing body changes such as heart rate, blood pressure, skin temperature, and other physical measures, researchers concluded that rosemary oil had a stimulating affect.
In the same study, researchers also found that participants who inhaled rosemary oil felt fresher or more active. Increases in respiratory rate, heart rate, and blood pressure were also observed.
How to make your own thieves oil blend
So, how can you use essential oils to make your own thieves oil blend? Mountain Rose Herbs suggests the following recipe for thieves oil:
40 drops clove bud essential oil
35 drops lemon essential
20 drops cinnamon bark essential oil
15 drops eucalyptus essential oil
10 drops rosemary essential oil
Mix all the components together and store in a dark glass bottle. Remember that this solution is highly concentrated. Always dilute it properly before using it.
You may also wish to experiment and make your own thieves oil blend by adding or substituting other essential oils.
For example, you may wish to substitute different citrus oils for lemon, such as orange or bergamot. Or, you may choose to add an additional herbal kick by adding in some thyme to the traditional recipe.
Diffuse, steam, massage, lotions and creams, sprays and mists
Diffusion
A diffuser is a device that allows the scent of essential oils to disperse throughout a room. Typically the oils are placed in the diffuser along with water. Diffusion can be good for things like:
providing ambiance to a room
promoting alertness
elevating mood
reducing feelings of stress or anxiety
To use thieves oil for diffusion, carefully follow the product instructions that came with your diffuser. This is important, because the directions may vary by product.
Steam inhalation
Steam inhalation involves adding essential oils to a bowl of steaming water. The hot water vaporizes the oil, allowing it to be inhaled with the steam. This application may help with respiratory congestion or sinus issues.
To use thieves oil for steam inhalation, you can do the following:
Add several drops of thieves oil to steaming water. You may want to start with just a couple drops so the scent isn’t overwhelming.
Place a towel over your head and lean over the bowl of water.
Keeping your eyes closed, breathe in deeply through your nose.
Massage
You can also make massage oils using essential oils. To do this, the thieves oil must be diluted in another type of oil, which is called a carrier oil. Carrier oils can include things like jojoba oil and coconut oil. Don’t apply essential oils directly on the skin unless diluted in a carrier oil.
The University of Minnesota Center for Spirituality and Healing recommends that the total percentage of essential oil shouldn’t exceed 3 to 5 percent of the total solution volume.
If you’re planning on applying massage oil to a large area, consider using a 1 percent solution.
Lotions and creams
You can also add thieves oil to unscented lotions and creams. These preparations can then be used for purposes such as soothing, cleansing, or helping with wound healing.
Like with massage oils, you’ll need to dilute thieves oil in the cream or lotion before applying it to your skin.
The National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy recommends that the final essential oil concentration be 1 to 2.5 percent for normal skin and 0.5 to 1 percent for sensitive skin.
Spray application
You can also use thieves oil in a spray. You may find this helpful for enhancing the scent of a room. Or you may want to tap into the antimicrobial properties of thieves oil and use it as a mild cleanser.
To use thieves oil in a spray:
Add 10 to 15 drops of thieves oil per ounce of water used.
Optional: Add a dispersing agent, such as solubol, to the solution. This helps the oil diffuse better in the water.
Shake well and spray. You’ll need to shake it every time before you spray.
Notes: cinnamon and clove oil are potential skin irritants. If topical application of thieves oil causes redness, swelling, or itching, avoid using it in the future.
If you’re planning on topically applying thieves oil, conduct a patch test first. To do this:
Clean your forearm with unscented soap and dry thoroughly.
Add a small amount of diluted thieves oil to an area on your forearm.
Cover with a bandage or gauze.
Leave the covering on for at least 24 hours. Then remove and check for irritation.
It’s also important to note that you can develop a sensitivity to both of these oils over time with repeated application. This is called sensitization.
Photosensitivity
Lemon oil can lead to photosensitivity. This means that exposure to the sun or other ultraviolet radiation can lead to burning or pigmentation changes. If you’re topically applying thieves oil, avoid going out in direct sunlight without proper sun protection.
Elderberry syrup
Ingredients
3 cups filtered water
1 cup dried elderberries
1 cup dried wolfberries
1 cup raw honey
1 orange use the zest and juice
1 cinnamon stick
Optional
3 drops lemon essential oil
3 drops Thieves essential oil blend
Instructions
Add all ingredients except honey and essential oils to the Instant Pot and set for manual / pressure cooking on high for 10 minutes.
Do a quick release. Strain the syrup into a large bowl to remove the berries.
Add raw honey and essential oils, and mix well. Pour into glass Mason jars.
Store in the refrigerator for up to a month. Enjoy 1-2 tbsp each day for a healthy immune system.
Elderberry Tea for Sniffles, Congestion, and Aches and Pains
Taking elderberry at the first sign of a cold or influenza is a potent way to either stop the infection or to shorten the duration of the illness.123
Elderberry works well as a single herb, but you can add other herbs to be more targeted in your approach. If you feel like you are coming down with something and you also feel cold, have the sniffles or congestion, and are starting to feel the aches and pains associated with an upper respiratory illness, then adding warming and aromatic herbs can be the perfect solution. Warming and aromatic herbs are called pungent herbs. These herbs are used to awaken the senses and get things moving. But you don’t have to memorize this … you probably already know it! Have you ever eaten a spicy soup or meal? Do you remember it making your eyes water or your nose run? That’s what pungent herbs do in a nutshell. They stimulate and move things, which is perfect for stagnancy or when something is stuck (e.g., sinus or lung congestion, sluggish digestion, etc.). The following herbal tea combines the cold- and flu-fighting qualities of elderberry with the warming and stimulating properties of several pungent herbs: ginger (Zingiber officinale), black pepper (Piper nigrum), rosemary (Salvia rosmarinus) and thyme (Thymus vulgaris).
Reach for this elderberry tea when you feel like you are coming down with a cold and you also feel cold (chilled) in your body.
1/4 cup dried elderberries (30 grams) 1/2 teaspoon dried ginger pieces 1/4 teaspoon black peppercorns, coarsely ground 14 ounces water 1 teaspoon dried rosemary 1 teaspoon dried thyme Honey or other sweetener as desired Place the elderberries, ginger, black pepper, and water in a small saucepan. Cover, bring to a boil, and reduce to a simmer for 20 minutes. Turn off the heat. Add the rosemary and thyme. Cover and let steep for 5 minutes
1/4 cup dried yarrow leaves and flowers 1/4 cup dried elderflowers 2 tablespoons dried rose hips, cut and sifted, or 1/4 cup dried whole rose hips Big pinch of dried mint, any type 2 cups water Honey, to taste (optional) Place all of the herbs in a pint jar. Bring 2 cups of water to a boil. Pour the water over the herbs, cover, and let steep for 30 minutes. Strain. Add honey to taste, if desired. Sip while warm.
Tea’s for home
hot cup of fresh (not dried!) ginger tea
Hot Boneset/Yarrow/Ginger/Elder Flower/Chrysanthemum flower tea also is effective for early stage flu.
diaphoretic tea of the following herbs: peppermint, elder flowers, yarrow, honeysuckle, boneset, linden, and ginger. Drink several cups a day; in the evening soak in a hot Epsom salt bath, go to bed, get under the covers and sweat.
Ginger Bath
To prepare the bath, use a handful of grated fresh ginger steeped in 1 gallon of water for 15 minutes. Keep the pot or jar covered while steeping.
Sore Throat, Fever…the “ugh I’m sick” Tea
Common cold with heat signs
This tea is great for anyone with that throat that feels like you swallowed glass pieces and you could heat the entire house on your own without the furnace. We’d call this the wind heat type of common cold in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM).
2 tbsp Chrysanthemum flowers (about 10g) – you can use camomile as substitute but it’s not as strong
1 tbsp Goji Berries (about 15g)
2 tbsp Mint (about 10g)
1 tsp Green tea (optional)
3 cups water
Option: Kudzu root 1-2 large pieces of kudzu cut into smaller pieces
Bring water to boil add goji berries (and kudzu if desired) to simmer for about 5 minutes. Turn off heat. Put mint, chrysanthemum and green tea in tea pot and pour water over. Allow to steep for 5-10 minutes. Strain and enjoy
The medicine in your cup:
Chrysanthemum flowers are considered sweet and bitter in property and cooling in nature. This makes them for heat type conditions. They are also great for soothing the eyes and heat in the liver system in general in Chinese Medicine which makes them good for hypertension, dizziness, irritability or conditions when you’re feeling ‘hot and bothered’.
Goji Berries – often used to strengthen the kidney yin, build the blood and nourish the eyes in TCM, goji berries are also high in vitamin c, antioxidants, and other nutrients making it a super powerful food to help keep you strong and boost the immune system. It is considered neutral in property, which makes it great for either a wind cold (chills) or wind heat (fever) type of cold.
Peppermint. Not only a soother for mind and stomach, peppermint has naturally cooling properties and work on the superficial conditions in the body which makes it great for the common cold that has heat signs (or as we like to say in TCM lingo – “wind-heat attack” which has a nice dramatic ring to it which is fitting when you’re on the couch feeling like you were just attacked by energy sucking bandits!). Fever, headache, sore throat and cough are some of the prime signs for using peppermint.
Green tea has many wonderful properties and many healing benefits. It is rich in hundreds of vitamins and minerals and touts many antioxidant, anticancer properties in addition to helping with cholesterol and digestion of fatty foods. In property it is more cooling than black tea and it is this cooling property that makes it a great addition to this cooling tea to help clear some of those heat signs. It’s also helpful to give a little boost of energy when you’re feeling beat up from a cold. If you’re having this tea later in the evening, you might want to skip the green tea if you’re sensitive to caffeine.
Kudzu root – Often used as a thickening agent in Japanese cooking, kudzu looks like a chalky rock or stone but can be crushed to powder easily. It is found easily in many Asian stores or natural food markets.
In TCM we classify it as a cool sweet and pungent root and it is excellent for the stiffness and aches associated with a cold or flu. We say it releases muscles, clears heat, releases wind (think sneezing) and helps to generate fluids (which is helpful for all the fluid escaping through your nose!) Kudzu can be mixed with warm water on it’s own if you’re particularly achy, or added in to any tea.
Boost your qi, build your blood and kick that cold to the curb broth.
Common cold remedy for chills and clear runny nose and NO fever
1-2 inch piece of Fresh Ginger sliced thinly
4 Green onions sliced into medium sized pieces
1-2 garlic cloves peeled and chopped (you can also use a garlic press)
6 cups Chicken bone broth (see below) -You can also use regular chicken stock for this recipe if you don’t have the time or broth ready. And for vegetarians, see below for another option.
Place ginger, onions, garlic and mushrooms (if you choose) in a pot and add a small amount of broth. Simmer until ingredients are softened. Add the rest of the stock and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to a simmer and cook for 20-30minutes. Sip on broth throughout the day and feel better!
This broth/soup can be stored in the fridge easily for a few days. You can also eat the ginger pieces if you like for some extra heat J
Options:
-add in dried or fresh mushrooms (shitake, mitake etc) to add an extra boost for your qi
– add in 4-5 pieces of Astragalus (Huang Qi) to broth as it is simmering to boost your immune system and energy (qi)
A note on the stock:
Bone broth is incredibly easy to make and just takes a bit of time, but not a lot of energy. If you have a slow cooker that’s great or I would just let my broth simmer on the lowest setting possible on my stove overnight to get the same affect.
Ingredients: Organic chicken bones simmered for 24 hrs with a tbsp of apple cider vinegar. For one pound of bones you need about 12- cups of water or just fill the pot to cover the bones instead of measuring it out. Once it has simmered for 24 hours, skimming off the fat and oil on the surface, strain and store in glass jars or freeze for later use.
I usually have stock simmering in my slow cooker every week to use with cooking or just freeze so I have it to use in a pinch. Saving your bones from a roast or just checking with your local butcher for chicken backs or ends is a great way to get the bones for the broth)
For Vegetarians:
Vegetarians you can make a vegan “bone broth” using vegetable stock or the ends of your veggies simmered for 8-10 hours and adding things like seaweeds, mushrooms and miso to beef up the nutrient content.
The medicine in your cup (nature’s pharmacy):
Ginger is a naturally warming food and has a pungent taste. Fresh ginger is particularly good at treating the common cold when presenting with chills (but NOT fever!). It also has the added benefit or warming and soothing the digestive system helping with nausea, upset stomach and appetite
Garlic is shown to have the lovely perk (in addition to tasting great) of being antibacterial and immune boosting. It is considered warm in Traditional Chinese Medicine food therapy and is great for reducing swellings, removing toxicity and carcinogens, strengthening the digestive system and moving our qi!
Green onion/scallion is also considered a warm and pungent herb, which makes it great for getting rid of ‘superficial’ conditions (aka: the common cold) that are cold in nature (those chills!). It can be eaten cooked or raw and adds a great flavour to foods and works really well in combination with ginger for that warming action.
Astragalus Root – This powerful herbal tool is easily found at your local Chinese market or herbal store. It has sweet and slightly warm properties and has great immune boosting properties. We say it works on the Lung and digestive systems in TCM and has great Qi (energy) boosting properties to it. It’s great for someone who seems to get sick all the time or has a lingering cough or just can’t seem to beat their cold.
Astraglus miso soup
2 cups broth (bone broth, meat broth, veggie broth) 30 grams astragalus Pinch of freshly ground black pepper 1-3 tablespoons miso
you could even use water. This broth could be the start of a more complex soup. You could add sliced garlic, a sautéed onion, some strips of seaweed, fried tempeh and on and on. Place the broth, astragalus, and black pepper into a medium sized sauce pan with a tight fitting lid. Astragalus Miso Soup Bring to a simmer, cover, and continue to simmer on low for 30 minutes. Astragalus Miso Soup Strain off the broth. You could use the astragalus again if desired, otherwise compost. Let the broth cool slightly, then add your desired amount of miso. Astragalus Miso Soup Serve warm in a mug or as a simple soup. Astragalus Miso Soup Yield: This yields about 1 1/2 cups and is a single serving.
Change of season soup
Change of season soup is an immune system tonic used in TCM. It is ideal to enhance the immune system during the changing of the seasons. This herbal formula is also thought to improve resistance to colds and flu and help with stress.
People who are in the midst of a cold or flu should not drink the soup until after they have recovered.
The soup has a slightly bitter taste on it’s own. To improve the taste, use it as a base for a hearty chicken soup made with a whole organic chicken and shiitake mushrooms, onions, leeks, carrots, yam, beets, turnip, kale and other local harvest vegetables.
Ingredients
To make change of season soup, you will need equal parts (2-3 oz each) of the following herbs. Chinese herbal shops sometimes sell the herbs pre-packaged for convenience or try the following suggestions:
You can use equal parts of each herb (eg. 4 sticks of herbs 1,2, and 3, and a handful of goji berries)
1)Astragalus/Huang Qi – 4 sticks, 15 cm long. This herb is an adaptogen, helping the body to better manage stress. It also stimulates the immune system and it tonifies the body overall.
2) Codonopsis pilosula / Dang Shen– 3 sticks, 10 cm long This herb is important in tonifying Qi energy (according to TCM principles). It detoxifies blood. It increases blood and the production of other immunity-important fluids. It is an adoptogen, helping the body to better manage stress
3) Chinese wild yam (Dioscorea sinensis/Shan Yao) – 2 sticks, 5 cm long.This herb relaxes the smooth muscles along the digestive tract. It is also great for the liver and is anti-inflammatory.
4) Chinese wolfberries or Goji berries (Lyciium barbarum/Gou Qi Zi) – 3 tbsp.These berries strengthen the liver and the kidneys. They also work to improve the immune system.
Instructions
1. Fill a large stock-pot with water. Add the above herbs to the pot and place the lid on. Bring to a boil and simmer for 4 to 6 hours. If the water level boils down, add water to refill if necessary.
2. Using a slotted spoon, remove the herbs from the pot and allow the soup to cool. This recipe makes about 4 liters of soup.
If you’re making a more hearty soup
1. Sauté onions, leek, ginger and garlic on medium heat until soft
2. Add celery and carrot for a few minutes then add chicken and ample water including the Chinese herbs
3. Bring the water to a boil, cover and simmer for about 1.5 hours or until the chicken is cooked. (If you are making the soup without chicken simmer for only 1 hour).
4. Remove the Astragalus, Codonopsis and Chinese wild yam from the pot with a slotted spoon then add any other vegetables and spices you enjoy in soup and continue simmering for about 20-30 more minutes
Congee
Description: Congee is a thick, creamy, porge-like dish made from rice that is cooked slowly, in enough water, and long enough for the rice to become thick and creamy. Herbs, vegetables, or a bit of chicken can be added as desired. More water can be added to make the dish more broth-like if preferred. High in nutrients and soothing, this dish can be a great way of using the herbs you are using to heal and it is very easy on an upset stomach or digestive tract. It is considered a classic comfort food in the Orient as well as being able to heal and nourish the body.
How to Use: Use organic ingredients if you can. Simply place one cup of rice in 7 cups of water or chicken broth and bring to a boil. Add salt to season. Ginger, garlic, astragalus, rosemary, oregano, and a host of other healing herbs can be blended together or individually added to your taste and preference. Once the water is boiling reduce the heat and let the mixture simmer on low for about an hour or until the rice becomes creamy. Be sure to stir so no rice sticks to the bottom and burns or becomes clumpy. As the congee cools it will become thicker. You can add additional water or broth as desired.
Side Effects: No side effects…except being nourished and recovering!
Drug Interactions: No drug interactions.
Lemon Water with Cayenne and Honey
Description: This simple traditional recipe is a powerful way to cleanse your system, support your immune system, decongest, and soothe your throat from coughing. Lemon and cayenne are both powerful antiviral healing substances. The addition of cayenne is useful when warming cold conditions. It can be eliminated if it is too hot or spicy for some.
How to Use: Pour a cup of boiling water over 2 to 3 tsp of lemon juice. Add a dash of cayenne pepper (remember a dash of cayenne goes a long way, so don’t over do it!). Cayenne is also a potent decongestant, and then add a tbsp of honey. The honey will help counter the spicy taste of cayenne and contains important nutritional value in itself. Do not use too much honey as you do not want to be exposing yourself to too much sugar as viruses feed on sugar.
Side Effects: No side effects. Too much lemon juice, or cayenne may upset your stomach. Too much honey can inhibit recovery by increasing your sugar intake. The lemon juice can be enjoyed by itself as a warm drink or even as a gargle to soothe sore throats.
Drug Interactions: No drug interactions.
Natural Rehydration Drinks
The recipe below is a natural way to help your body rehydrate (think of it like nature’s Gatorade). Easy to do, it’ helps your body absorb water easier and rehydrate faster. Give it a try and help keep that holiday hangover at bay.
2 (red) dates – pit removed
a pinch of sea salt
Juice of one lemon
Soak the dates in a large jug of water overnight. Add a pinch of salt and the juice of the lemon in the morning and blend using a hand mixer. Sip throughout the day and enjoy!
barley water, is easy on the stomach and is a classic remedy used for lowering fevers and calming the agitation associated with fevers. Simply take a handful of barley and bring to a boil in a pint of water, let it boil for about 5-10 minutes, and then turn the heat down to simmer on low. Reduce the liquid by half, strain the barley out, let cool, and sip!
Natural Electrolyte drinks
Sodium -sodium helps to conduct nerve impulses and stimulate muscle contractions. This common mineral also works to control your blood pressure and volume
calcium -influences muscle contractions, sends and receives nerve impulses, helps maintain a regular heart beat and even effects levels of hormones and other chemicals
potassium -potassium focuses much of its attention on smooth muscles – such as your heart and digestive system. The mineral is also an important ingredient in the production of energy throughout your body
phosphorus -vital in the production of ATP the primary source of fuel for your muscles. In addition to the standard electrolyte actions related to muscle contraction, nerve conduction and heart beat, phosphorus also supports normal kidney function
magnesium – supports nerve function, helps in muscle contractions, strengthens your immune system, maintains a regular heart beat, and regulates the use of nutrients to produce energy
Chloride. responsible for maintaining a healthy balance of bodily fluids,
Homemade Electrolyte Drink Recipe
500ml (16.9oz) cold water or coconut water
3 tbsp maple syrup
1 tsp course sea salt or
lemon juice, to taste
lime juice, to taste
Grapefruit Twist
1/2 cup fresh orange juice
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
4 drops grapefruit essential oil (or 1/4 cup grapefruit juice)
2 cups water (filtered or raw coconut water)
2 tbsp raw honey
1/8 tsp Himalayan pink salt
Put all ingredients in a blender and pulse for about 30 seconds. Serve and drink immediately
Lemon Limeade
1/4 cup lime juice
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
2 cups water (filtered or raw coconut water)
2 tbsp raw honey
1/8 tsp Himalayan pink salt
Essential Oil Tool Kit
Medicinal grade – key to make sure it’s got the components needed to do the work
inhale, apply topically (add to coconut, oil, sesame, avocado etc..) avoid direct as may cause burning etc.
This is NOT an infusion
Created through distillation process – condensing down to very potent amount (that’s why not all are taken internally b/c very strong and why not all oils that you get our there are medicinally strong)
Skin a great way to absorb things – (biggest organ!)
Mix with a tbsp of water, gargle for 1 minute then swallow at the on-set of a sore throat.
Put 5 drops Oregano and 5 drops OnGuard in a capsule and take 3 times daily at the on set of cold or flu symptoms.
Put on the soles of kids feet in the morning and at night (diluted with fractionated coconut oil in a roller bottle) during cold & flu season (start in September) to support immune system.
Put several drops in a bowl of very hot water and breathe in the vapors as the oil begins to volatilize when you have lung congestion. (or put in diffuser and inhale during the night)
Put 20 drops in a spray bottle of water and vinegar. Shake and then use to clean and sanitize kitchen counters, sinks, floors, door knobs, and bathroom surfaces.
Add to your dishwasher or laundry for micro clean dishes and clothes.
Apply to bee and insect stings to neutralize the toxin and relieve the pain.
Gargle and brush daily for healthy teeth and gums and to prevent and treat gum disease.
Diffuse in your home, school, daycare or business to kill air borne pathogens, inhibit mold and build immune systems.
Mix 2-3 drops of OnGuard and 2 drops of lemon EO with 1 tsp of raw honey (Manuka if you have it) for a cold or cough or sore throat relief for kids and adults.
Blends:
Tree oils – stand strong, work with resistance and adapt/move as a tree does.
Mix with geranium, Ylang Ylang and lemon as mix for grounding
On Guard
On Guard is advertised as a “protective blend,” used to support the immune system and help kill off harmful bacteria and viruses. It contains a blend of five essential oils, including:
wild orange peel
clove bud
cinnamon bark/leaf
eucalyptus leaf
rosemary leaf/flower
Adaptiv – our ability to adapt and empowerment to create mind state: wild orange, lavender, coaiba (tree resin from large trees in the amazon), spearmint, rosemary and neroli
Clove Essential Oil
Description: Clove essential oil is excellent for treating respiratory infections and pain, for reducing blood pressure and inflammation, and for stimulating dreams.
How to Use: 2-4 drops blended with either olive oil or coconut oil can be rubbed into the throat, chest, or wrists. As an inhalant, 5-8 drops can be added to boiling water and the steam gently inhaled.
Side Effects: Generally considered safe. It is a warming herb, so too much can cause mouth sores or irritation. The essential oil is considered unsafe for children, causing seizures and liver damage.
Drug Interactions: Clove essential oil contains eugenol, which slows blood clotting. Taking clove oil with medications that also slow blood clotting could increase the chances of bruising or bleeding.
Eucalyptus Essential Oil
Open nasal passages
Description: Eucalyptus is excellent for treating respiratory inflammation caused by bronchitis, pneumonia, and other infectious lung diseases.
How to Use: Blend 20 drops of eucalyptus oil with 30 drops of lavender oil in a 5 ml bottle. Ten drops of this mixture can be added to boiling water or a diffuser and the steam gently inhaled. A few drops can also be rubbed below the nostrils and inhaled to help open up sinuses. A few drops rubbed on the chest can help open the lungs.
Side Effects: Eucalyptus oil is safe to inhale and to apply to skin. Taken internally, 3 ml of undiluted oil can be fatal.
Drug Interactions: If taken internally, eucalyptus can be harmful. In addition, it interacts with a wide variety of drugs, so a healthcare provider should be consulted before using eucalyptus oil internally.
Oregano Essential Oil
Description: Oregano essential oil is a known antiviral and antibacterial. It is one of the most popular home remedies for treating cold sores and is excellent for treating colds and flus.
How to Use: 2 drops of oregano essential oil to 1 tsp of olive oil can be rubbed on the chest, below the nostrils, or onto a cold sore. 1 drop of oil to 1 drop of olive oil can also be taken under the tongue to help clear up viral respiratory infections. Sniffing the essential oil can also help to open up the sinuses.
Side Effects: Generally considered safe; however, some people may be allergic to oregano, causing mild stomach upset or possible skin rash if used externally.
Drug Interactions: Using oregano or oregano essential oil internally while using lithium may inhibit the body’s ability to eliminate lithium, causing serious side effects. Using lithium and oregano together is not recommended.
Lemongrass Essential Oil
Description: Lemongrass essential oil is excellent at helping to reduce fevers and induce sweating. It helps to reduce the aches and pains associated with colds and flus. Lemongrass is also commonly called fever grass due to its ability to help fight fever and the symptoms associated with it. It can aid sleep and relieve headaches associated with colds and flus.
How to Use: Add 2 drops to massage oil for treating aches, pains, headache, and insomnia. It is also used as aromatherapy to help calm headaches and open the sinuses.
Side Effects: Generally considered safe; however some people may experience skin irritation if lemongrass essential oil is applied directly to the skin. Caution is advised for inhaling lemongrass as some have experienced toxic side effects.
Drug Interactions: There is currently no information on drug interactions.
Thyme Essential Oil
Description: Thyme essential oil has antiviral properties that make it useful for treating cold sores, flus, and colds. It is also excellent for helping to prevent colds and flus.
How to Use: A few drops added to your bath can help open sinuses, soothe aches and pains, and bring about a faster recovery.
Side Effects: Thyme essential oil is generally considered safe; however, a few people may experience irritated skin if the oil is rubbed directly onto the skin. Be use to blend it with a carrier oil, such as olive oil or coconut oil before applying to skin.
Drug Interactions: Thyme slows blood clotting, so using it or its essential oil internally while taking medications that also slow clotting may increase the risk of bruising or bleeding.
Lime Essential Oil
Description: Lime is another antiviral, antiseptic, antibacterial, and antiseptic herb and essential oil. It can help prevent infection, as well as disinfect, fight fevers, and help restore balance and energy.
How to Use: A drop of lime essential oil can be added to a glass of drinking water for flavor and to enhance its antioxidant potential. Add 2 -4 drops of essential oil to 1 pint of boiling water. Turn of the heat, and then let the steam disinfect your environment as it helps to energize and support your immune system.
Side Effects: Applying lime essential oil directly to skin can cause irritation and redness. Blend essential oils with a carrier oil (such as olive oil or coconut oil) before applying to skin.
Drug Interactions: Lime essential oil may increase sensitivity to sunlight. Using lime essential oil with medications that do the same could increase the risk of sunburn or blistering.
Frankincense Essential Oil
Description: Since frankincense is best known for its calming and mood-lifting properties, it can be easy to forget that frankincense essential oil is also good for treating coughs and helping to rejuvenate a person’s overall energy. It is also a good decongestant.
How to Use: 2-4 drops added to your bath can refresh your energy and open up your respiratory tract. For headache caused by congestion, add 2 drops to olive oil and rub the oil on your forehead, back of neck, and upper chest. A drop of essential oil added to a teaspoon of coconut oil or a glass of water can be ingested to help calm coughs and lift your mood.
Side Effects: Applying lime essential oil directly to skin can cause irritation and redness. Blend essential oils with a carrier oil (such as olive oil or coconut oil) before applying to skin.
Drug Interactions: There is currently no information on drug interactions.
Lavender Essential Oil
Description: Lavender is a powerful essential oil that is very good at treating inflammation caused by injury or infection, especially respiratory infections.
How to Use: Blend 40 drops of lavender with 40 drops of peppermint. Ten drops can be infused in boiling water for inhalation or added to a diffuser for the same purpose. A few drops rubbed below the nostrils and on the chest can help open the lungs and sinuses. A few drops rubbed onto inflamed joints will help ease swelling and pain.
Side Effects: Some people may experience allergic reactions that include irritated skin, headache, or constipation.
Drug Interactions: Currently there is no information about lavender-drug interactions.
Essential oils
Doterra – help for recovery. Deep blue polyphenols powerhouse of vitamins – help to stabilise and neutralise oxidation in the body (which leads to inflmmation and aging in the body. Also indirectly helps with stronger immune system, brighter skin, (because of reduction in oxidisation)
Frakensense resin
Turmeric
Green tea, resveretol, pomegranate
Copaiba – comes from resin of large trees in the amazon. Contains beta-caryophyllene
Peppermint oil – invigorates and helps to clean the air
Stress – Melissa – taken internally to calm tension and nerves
Balance blend by doter – disuse to ground and calm
Copaiba – internal to help calm and support nervous system
Serenity capsules
Tree oils – stand strong, work with resistance and adapt/move as a tree does.
Mix with geranium, slang slang and lemon as mix for grounding
Adaptiv – our ability to adapt and empowerment to create mind state: wild orange, lavender, coaiba (tree resin from large trees in the amazon), spearmint, rosemary and neroli
Steady for kids – safe for kid. Has amyris , balsam fir, coriander, magnolia with coconut oil – good for overwhelm can roll anywhere. Re
Balance – about harmony. Spruce, hope wood, frankincense (deciduous tree and grows where so many other things cannot grow. Resin of tree teaches us about truth. Healing masculine energy)
Frankinsense – good with citrus and lavender and other tree essences
Anchor – frankincense, cedar wood, sandalwood, black pepper, cinnamon and patchouli