My Introduction to Essential Oils

I have recently come to appreciate the wonders of essential oils after attending the Mod Moms event with Amara Lab. There, I was able to learn more about the e.o. varieties, its uses and benefits, and even made my first oil blends using Amara Oils. 

I actually first learned about EOs when I was pregnant with the girl in 2007. I attended an event for expectant moms which featured a demo on infant massage. During the demo (sorry, I forgot the name of the resource person), the expert stressed that we should try to use essential oil blends and not the mineral oil-based varieties that are sold commercially. She mentioned that while it is better, EOs are not readily available here and are much more expensive. After she said that, I really didn't pay much attention na and lost interest. Last year, I bought an assortment of blends in roller bottles because I was curious to try for my kids. Now I know better.

At the Mod Moms event organized by my friend Michelle Aventajado of Momma n Manila blog, the mini e.o. workshop and talk by Betty Sy of Amara Oils Phils. piqued my interest. I met Betty during our kids' art class when I was still homeschooling a few years ago. I found her very charismatic and passionate, and I was all the more impressed with her knowledge and how well she explained the uses and benefits of essential oils. I learned so much from her in that short time we were there.

AMARA is committed to partner only with the best brands that are passionate for safe green and toxin free personal care products. To source the globe for top grade essential oils in its purest form, along with the safest skin care alternatives that are natural and free from toxic ingredients to make sure your family stays healthy and beautiful.

Clockwise, from top left: Tina, Mish, Pam and I; Mish with Mesclun founders; me and Betty

Venue host Aruga Cafe by Mesclun was beautifully transformed by The Event Architects -- the perfect backdrop while we enjoy our sumptuous lunch. Aside from our Amara kits, all the mommy guests took home sweet treats from Cinq Desserts, organic personal care products from Zenutrients, and Bento party packs and cookies by Mesclun Kids.

Essential oils have become more accessible these days. Many of my friends swear by the benefits of using essential oils for their families' health remedies and overall wellness.

The popular brands they use are from multi-level marketing companies. Either buy from members, order abroad, or they become members themselves. It didn't appeal to me, but I was open to hearing them out as they share their rituals and favorite oils. This is why I am very pleased to share that Amara Oils are available to all -- no membership, no downlines, no minimum orders required. Simply buy the oils that you need directly from Amara Oils online shop.

Choose from their lineup of prestigious European brands such as Tisserand Aromatherapy, Amphora Aromatics, and Florihana, among others.

WAYS TO USE ESSENTIAL OILS:

1  AROMATIC

• STEAM INHALATION
• INHALATION AND DIFFUSION

"Inhaling the aromas from essential oils can stimulate areas  of your limbic system, which is a part of your brain that plays a role in emotions, behaviors, sense of smell and long-term memory. Interestingly, the limbic system is heavily involved in forming memories. This can partly explain  why  familiar  smells can trigger memories or emotions."

Choose your preferred diffuser and add 3 to 5 drops of essential oil per 100ml of water.

Allow 15 to 20 minutes for inhalation. It's safe to diffuse around children.

2  TOPICAL

• MASSAGE
• BATH & SHOWER

"Do not apply undiluted essential oil directly to skin or drip into eyes, ears, nose and other mucous membrane as this can cause chemical burn or adverse skin reactions."

There are so many choices for carrier oils, like sweet almond oil, grapeseed oil, fractionated coconut oil, sunflower, olive and jojoba oils.

Amara Oils Guide for Adult Dilution

Diluting the essential oil is key to safely use essential oils for kids.

Amara Oils guide to Kids Dilution

3  INGESTION

Be sure to use only certified food-grade quality essential oils for flavoring and cooking.

CONTRAINDICATION

• Always seek the advise of a licensed & qualified aromatherapist before using or ingesting any essential oils.
• If you have any skin condition, epilepsy, asthma, blood pressure irregularities or are taking prescribed medication, check with your doctors first. Certain essential oils might irritate or trigger an attack.

OTHER TIPS

• Use reputable brands of essential oils to assure quality, potency, and safety
• Always check the label and certifications
• Avoid products with mineral oil and petrolatum
• Store in cool, dry, dark area. Essential oils can generally last up to 5 years when stored properly
• Lavender and Citrus oils should not be used under the sun - good for up to 2 yrs. only
• Use with care -- essential oils for remedy is not intended to replace medical treatments

Basic Blends to try:

• Tea tree, Lavender, Eucalyputs - for common colds
• Lemon and Tea Tree - for anti molds
• Lavender, roman chamomille - for better sleep

Here are the recipes we tried and took home to use. I've started with roller blends, and next will be diffusion. Thanks to Amara Oils, I now have a better understanding of how my family can benefit from using essential oils.

Below are printable cards for your convenience. Tap to print. Read instructions carefully.

I love the minty scents and soothing effects of these blends!

Watch out for AMARA Oils pop-up events this October and November.

Like and Follow AMARA Oils Philippines to get new product updates, and pop-up event details.

Facebook.com/amaraoilsph  

Instagram.com @amaraoilsph

For more information, visit www.amaraoilsph.com.

Notes:

Slides and recipe cards courtesy of Amara Oils.

Third photo by Nino Aventajado.

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