We have been fighting off a cold here at our house all week and unfortunately it has been hanging onto my 20 month old son.  He is completely congested and miserable with a snotty nose and constant cough.  One trick of ours is to steam up the shower and then turn the bath on immediately after while Liam soaks in the tub.  He feels immediate relief when we add 8-10 drops of our favorite essential oil.  One fantastic essential oil for cold and flu is that of Ravensara.  This evergreen species of tree grows in Madagascar and Asia as well.  The potent oil has a spicy and calming aroma that penetrates deeply into the body for ultimate healing therapy.  Little Liam loves the way Ravensara eases his cough and reduces his congestion instantly.  His attitude softens and he seems to feel better within minutes of entering the balmy bathroom.  Try this if you ever find yourself or loved ones bogged down by an infection or virus.  Ravensara is antiviral, antibacterial, antiseptic and a wonderful expectorant.  Thus making it one powerful oil for any and all illnesses.  Once the oil enters the body it helps to raise immunity and ward off lung and throat infections as well as asthmatic symptoms.  Any allergy sufferers out there would be wise to keep Ravensara within reach especially now that the pollen is really accumulating.  It acts to calm the body and mind of any and all irritants.  Ravensara has been known to gently ease symptoms felt by those with chronic depression when inhaled or applied topically daily.  Ravensara also has the ability to reduce nervous tension in high strung or stressed out individuals.  Furthermore, this particular oil will work wonders on those suffering from insomnia.  It is said that the oil creates a lightness of being once it has been applied to the body.  The essential oil of Ravensara eases spasms and muscle tension so be sure to use post workout.  You can even apply this oil diluted to a dog suffering from muscular aches/pains and superficial wounds.  The properties of Ravensara help wounds heal quickly by keeping bacteria at bay.  If you are looking to use this particular oil on a pregnant woman search for something called Ravensara which is gentler on the system.  As an aphrodisiac it is said that Ravensara can be contraindicated during pregnancy.  Try blending this essential oil with Palmarosa and Melaleuca for a fabulously healing potion.  When you are feeling in the mood for a powerhouse oil application during your next massage Ravensara will not disappoint!
By: Sarah McCallum
Massage Therapist @ NLMSC

     When a woman prepares for childbirth she is hoping for an easy and quick event.  I have yet to meet a woman who welcomes a lengthy and painful labor, who would?  The essential oil of Jasmine is an oil that every “soon to pop” female should have in her hospital bag.  Jasmine has long been used as a uterine tonic.  The essential oil helps to tone and heal the uterus while also keeping tumors at bay.  During the delivery process Jasmine will help to expel the fetus gently.  Since Jasmine essential oil is known as a fabulous sedative it will also ease labor pains.  On top of all that, Jasmine increases lactation in new mothers as well.  Another benefit for new mothers is the powerful components in Jasmine that help clear scars and stretch marks.  Had I known then what I know now, Jasmine would have been tagging along for the ride instead of my trusty Lavender.  The Jasmine flower only blooms at night releasing a sweetly romantic aroma into the evening air.  It is associated with deep sleep and soothing emotions all wonderful things that come along when the day is done.  Jasmine encourages the release of serotonin throughout the human body which increases mood and energy.  It can also be said to improve a person's sex life since it is well known as an aphrodisiac.  Anyone dealing with heightened anxiety and/or depression should look no further than this gorgeous floral scent.  It helps to balance hormones within the body and encourages content feelings with its antidepressant qualities.  Lastly, this particular oil makes for a great natural expectorant, so no more late night runs to the drug store when a nagging cold sets in.  Grab your Jasmine essential oil and take a warm soak with 8-10 drops in the tub, breath in that lovely aroma and close your eyes.  The oil works to remove excess phlegm but also to bring about a deep and uninterrupted night's sleep.  Next time you're feeling stressed or down… come by for an early evening foot soak and reflexology session paired with Jasmine essential oil.
By: Sarah McCallum
Massage Therapist @ North Lake Massage & Skin Care 

     For all of you pregnant women out there this summer make sure you keep a bottle of Spearmint essential oil by your side at all times.  Not only is this one fantastic oil for uterine health but it is also an incredibly powerful anti-nausea agent.  I personally used this oil during my first trimester of pregnancy due to some serious morning sickness.  After being told to place a bowl of water mixed with Spearmint essential oil next to my bed before falling asleep I thought that sounded a bit wild but tried it anyway.  The next morning I awoke feeling as if I could actually handle getting out of bed without needing to eat something, a first for me since conceiving my child.  This particular oil has a lower menthol amount than that of Peppermint making it safe to use externally during pregnancy.  You can also use this essential oil on children without a worry.  It brings down fevers beautifully and helps to open the chest when suffering any congestion.  Spearmint can ease bouts of vertigo and dizziness as well as migraine headaches by relaxing and cooling the body and nerves.  Marathon runners would be wise to apply spearmint to any achy muscles post race as it is known to be a phenomenal restorative.  Once the oil has entered the human body it also increases metabolism and detoxification processes therefore continuing to aid in healing anyone recuperating from athletic activity.  This particular oil can be used internally and externally to fight bodily infections.  Gargle a cup full of water with a few drops of Spearmint to keep teeth and gums happy and healthy.  Try blending Spearmint with Lavender and Basil essential oils for a cooling and calming trio that will keep mosquitoes and other pesky summer bugs at bay.  Visit the spa for a soothing treat this summer and allow our talented therapists to massage away your aches and pains with a bit of Spearmint essential oil!   
By: Sarah McCallum
Massage Therapist @ NLMSC

     Summer is right around the corner and the heat is creeping in.  In order to cool off I like to turn to my bottle of Lime essential oil.  The refreshing aroma of Lime reminds me of cool, crisp moments so much so that I often forget about the blazing temperatures outside.  It is also one of my favorite oils to use in drinks like smoothies and fresh squeezed juices.  Just one drop added to a cold glass of mint tea can rejuvenate the body and senses.  Remember to make certain that your bottle of Lime essential oil is Certified Pure Therapeutic Grade before ingesting.  Taking Lime essential oil internally before meals is a great way to get the most out of your food as it activates your digestive juices.  Lime also works to cure internal infections of the mouth, stomach, intestines and colon whenever it is consumed.  Essential oil of Lime is a wonderful disinfectant so pour 5-10 drops in a spray bottle full of water and get your kitchen sparkly and clean!  This particular oil is a great companion during a massage treatment since it has both tonic and restorative properties.  You will feel much less stressed, sore and a bit more youthful by the end of your session.  For anyone dealing with hair loss adding a bit of lime into your hair care routine can strengthen the scalp and therefore keep hair from falling away any further.  Lime, along with lemon are two citrus oils that when taken internally help the body stay on the alkaline side.  This helps fight of disease and infection both of which wreak havoc in a highly acidic system.  This particular essential oil fights off most any sign of aging with a heavy dose of vitamins and minerals.  Lime wards off both anxiety and depression leaving those who use it regularly feeling cheerful and uplifted.  Lime makes for a great office oil as it will increase awareness and focus while boosting energy as well.  Welcome the summer season with a sweet treat at the spa: a lime infused reflexology session!