One essential oil that you should just stick in your purse or glove compartment right now is Peppermint.  Its invigorating and cool aroma has such a plethora of affects on our minds and bodies.  First it is wonderful at reducing fevers and excess heat like inflammation or digestive upset.  It unveils a powerfully complex arsenal of pain killing properties.  If, while camping or vacationing, your child becomes ill this oil will most likely be able to calm and ease whatever is irritated in or on the body.  Asthma and congestion symptoms respond well to peppermint’s minty fresh vapor; diffuse and inhale for relief.  Always dilute peppermint in carrier oils like coconut or jojoba before applying to any area of the body topically because of its strong cooling agents.  Be aware that one drop of peppermint essential oil is equal to 28 cups of peppermint tea so a little really does go a long way.  The oil also stimulates the nervous system bringing on a general improved sense of focus and mental clarity.  That being said, this particular oil should be avoided before bedtime so that you aren’t left wide-awake.  It has also been known to reduce lactation so if you’re a new mother hard at work nursing her baby do not use peppermint essential oil, as it will only invoke frustration.  The peppermint plant has been in the know since the 17th century making it a classic.  Many people consider this oil as one of the most often used when perusing their collection of essential oils because of its ability to heal many different ailments throughout the body.  Athletes would benefit greatly from adding this oil to their physical therapy session as it deepens breathing and increases strength and endurance.  Whether you’re looking to add some pep to your step or relieve pain and discomfort this oil has a little bit of something for everyone.  Remember to request peppermint essential oil during your next reflexology session and really clear your mind and body of any and all achiness.  Ahhh, the power of peppermint!

    Just before I opened my laptop to type this blog entry I reached for my precious bottle of Frankincense oil.  Lightly sprinkling a few drops in my hand with some coconut oil, I rubbed the mixture onto the tops and bottoms of my feet.  This rich and sultry aroma reached up towards my nose bringing my mind, body and spirit into a harmoniously elevated space.  The origin of this incredibly powerful oil is the resin produced from a tree.  Through steam distillation the oil is extracted and bottled for everyday uses and ceremonial celebrations.   While it is truly a fantastic mood enhancer, this oil also has anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, antifungal, anti-depressant, analgesic, diuretic, astringent and sedative properties.   It has been known to give anyone suffering from inflammatory bowel disease massive relief when taken internally.  Frankincense oil pairs wonderfully with Rose oil; apply a few drops each to a carrier oil and smooth onto face and décolleté for an immediate glow.  You can use the oil to clean minor cuts or take a drop or two in a veggie capsule for an immune boost.  This oil literally encourages the cells in our body to heal.  When combined with Peppermint and Lavender essential oils the trio calms stress and eases headaches.  As I have said before, anytime you are using an essential oil of the burseraceae family, resinous trees and shrubs, the overall impression will have a grounding quality.  These particular oils keep us rooted in the earth like a tree.  That type of energy can be very transformational for people looking to anchor themselves in a particular task or activity.  While I do not like to name favorites, this just might be my most favorite essential oil.  Whenever I apply a few drops on a client during a treatment they always leave smiling and centered.  Enjoy your next session with a bit of this ancient healing oil and meditate into bliss! 

By: Sarah McCallum
Massage Therapist @ NLMSC

One of my greatest loves about Tahoe is the crisp and fresh air.  Nothing quite compares to a nice long walk in the woods meandering through the giant conifers.  There are a handful of essential oils that were once pumping through the limbs of a tree.  Cypress happens to be an essential oil that has been extracted from the branches of an evergreen through a process of steam distillation.  Other tree oils like frankincense, pine, and eucalyptus give our emotional, physical and spiritual selves grounding and stabilizing affects as if helping root us in the ground.  This specific oil can also be applied to firewood for a very subtle aromatic addition to the evening routine.  Just add a drop or two to each log about an hour before you want to start your fire and a few hours later your room will smell woodsy and fresh.  While the properties give an earthly appeal the smell gives the allure of water.  In Traditional Chinese Medicine, cypress is used to enliven and regulate the flow of blood and qi throughout the body.  Be cautious when applying this particular oil to yourself and others because it is known to open blockages both physically, as well as emotionally.  Cypress is also a great tonic for the veins and kidneys.  Cypress not only helps increase lymphatic drainage but can also be used to decrease bloating and congestion in the body.  The essential oil of cypress acts like a waterfall, encouraging movement and activating waste removal on many different levels.  In fact, cypress is antimicrobial, antiseptic, antibacterial, anti-infectious and anti-spasmodic.  This oil can be used to decrease nervous tension and ease tight tired muscles.  Combine cypress, lavender and wild orange in a carrier oil and massage on your feet for a calming, stabilizing, cleansing and rejuvenating experience.   You can also use this oil to ease breathing when sick and as a throat gargle to maintain a healthy mouth and respiratory system.  Take a chance on this oil the next time you’re in the mood for a transformational change and I can promise you will not be disappointed.
By Sarah McCallum
Massage Therapist @ NLMSC