I am writing today at the start of a 10 day cleanse and couldn’t be more excited to boost my immunity.  I have been sicker than ever this summer and I do believe it has a lot to do with the fact that I share living quarters with a 2 year old.  As we began introducing Liam to some regular social interaction with large groups of children he would bring a lot of different germs home with him.  I ended up ill nearly every time he picked up any virus or bacteria.  Lately, I have been able to maintain a healthy internal system thanks to my powerful crew of essential oils.  As I embark on this cleanse I am determined to maintain homeostasis by incorporating as many different oils as possible.  Coriander is one of those fabulous oils for any detoxification routine.  The seed of the Cilantro plant is steam distilled to produce a warm and slightly sweet aroma.  Combining Coriander with Grapefruit is a great way to lift your mood during those early tense moments of cleansing.  This combination also results in weight loss and increased lymphatic flow as it helps to break down fat and cholesterol in the body.  Coriander also supports the digestive and circulatory systems via stimulating components that aid in the removal of heavy metals from the body.  It is a well-known antispasmodic therefore making Coriander a great essential oil to use during massage therapy.  This oil will help to calm any and all muscular cramps as well as digestive upset.  Coriander is a potent analgesic that will help to relieve any pains felt in the body.  In the past this oil was used to cure toothaches and head aches almost immediately.  Lastly, this particular essential oil works to purify the blood when taken internally.  Before you head out to the supermarket for some over the counter painkiller think about the application of Coriander first.  Better yet, come by the spa for a relaxing and rejuvenating Coriander scented massage therapy session with one of our amazingly talented therapists!

      What is better than the scent of fresh, sweet citrus on a hot summer day?  Not much, in my opinion and that is why today I am talking about Bergamot.  This lovely essential oil has long been used by Europeans in their morning cup of black tea to create the well known Earl Grey.  The aroma of Bergamot is reminiscent of lavender fields and a squeeze of lemon.  The essential oil is great for inducing appetite as it increases the secretion of digestive juices making it a staple at the breakfast table for ages.  Beyond the culinary benefits of Bergamot, it also does wonders for the body both externally and internally as well as the nervous system.  Morning routines are important when you're looking to improve your radiance and glow so be sure to add a drop or two of Bergamot to your shampoo and face wash to create shiny tresses and balmy skin.  Bergamot helps rid the hair and skin of any excess build up with fabulous disinfectant properties.  Acne and eczema won't stand a chance against the power of this citrus fruit.  The Bergamot rind is full of essential oil components that even help wounds, scars and stretch marks heal quickly.  While the oil works to beautify your external body it is also reducing feelings of anxiety and tension by improving blood circulation and stimulating hormonal secretions.  Make a point to avoid direct sunlight for an hour or so after application as this essential oil is phototoxic meaning that the components in the oil will become toxic when combined with the sun's rays.  It is wise to store your bottle in a dark place as well since the sunlight will increase its chance of becoming rancid.  This particular oil is great for both morning and evening rituals.  When combined with Vetiver before bed this duo can ensure a restful night's sleep.  While soothing nerves and lowering body temperature, the two oils will perform fabulous calming action on the gut and gently increase feelings of contentment and relaxation.  Because of Bergamot's analgesic powers it makes for a great aromatherapy massage oil.  When applied to the body mixed in a carrier oil it will lessen the sensitivity nerves have to pain and therefore alleviate any discomfort related to strains/sprains and cramps.  Any women dealing with PMS symptoms should add this oil to their low back and abdomen for immediate relief.  These powerful properties have even been known to cure infections of the colon, kidney, urinary and intestinal tract.  Be sure to incorporate a bit of this essential oil into your routine whether it be at home or at the spa sometime this season to reap the amazing benefits of Bergamot.
By Sarah McCallum
Massage Therapist @ NLMSC

     When I think of Clove and the aroma it produces I am reminded of winter time and holiday feasts.  I reflect upon warm fires and hot apple cider, things associated with cooler climates.  So why in the world would I be writing an article on Clove essential oil during the warmest time of the year?  Well, believe it or not Clove is much more than a fabulous cooking spice.  This particular essential oil is one of the most powerful healers for any muscular disorder.  Therefore, while we are all in the midst of summer activities like hiking, biking, kayaking, paddle boarding, running and many more we should be prepared for any possible injury.  If you are an active individual, many if not all Tahoe residents are, you may need to grab yourself a bottle of this miracle worker.  Clove essential oil has an incredibly high antioxidant level, keeping our minds and bodies healthy and our immune systems strong.  You may apply this oil externally to any strain or sprain for immediate relief but be sure to dilute in a carrier oil as it may burn the skin of those with sensitive constitutions.  This oil's cleansing properties are so strong that it was once widely used to sterilize surgical instruments pre and post operation.  You can also ingest a drop or two of clove to keep your heart in top notch condition.  The oil will work as an antibacterial, antiseptic and analgesic agent as soon as it enters the blood stream.  It is one of the best fighters against disease and infection.  Clove also works to eradicate any invaders from our digestive system so that we can assimilate all of the nutrients from our food in the most efficient and effective manner.  If you are struggling with nausea due to the flu just combine a drop of clove with a drop of lavender and/or peppermint in a carrier oil and massage on the belly and low back.  The essential oil of Clove also has a sedative effect so be sure to use it later in the day or before you lie down to rest.  It has long been known as a cure for toothaches and Clove even helps clear up symptoms of asthma, bronchitis and sinusitis by reducing congestion in the head and lungs.  The flowering tops of the Clove bud are steam distilled to create the rich and spicy aroma that we have all grown to love during those holiday parties.  I want you all to approach Clove as a healer for the body when it is in need of some TLC.  Any time you experience a strain or sprain make certain to reach for your bottle of Clove essential oil.  Come by the spa after your outdoor activity to receive a fabulous deep tissue massage with the help of this powerful and potent essential oil.  
By: Sarah McCallum
Massage Therapist @ NLMSC 

      How many of you check out the ingredient label on that trusty bug spray so often used during the summer months?  Full of chemicals these drug store brands of insect repellants my do the job but they are also doing a number on your internal system.  In today's world of fast food and quick fixes many of us lean upon those easy go to remedies but there are ancient potions that help heal naturally without those additives.  One of my favorite essential oils to repel insects comes from the herbaceous plant Oregano.  The leaves of this plant are steam distilled to produce a warm and spicy essential oil with incredibly powerful healing properties.  Add 5-10 drops to a spray bottle of water and pack up when you go camping this summer for an amazing and health conscious bug spray.  This oil also has incredible pain killing components so make sure to bring the bottle along as well in case anyone takes a spill.  You can apply a few drops diluted in a carrier oil, think olive or coconut, on the affected area immediately after the accident for sure fire relief.  Always be sure to dilute this particular essential oil when using topically or internally as it is very potent.  Not only will the pain subside but the oil will help to heal any skin wounds as well.  Here in the Oregano plant we find antibacterial, antiviral, anti-fungal, antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.  This is one strong powerhouse of an essential oil!  This is one of the ancient oils along with Frankincense, Myrrh and Marjoram, all of which have been used medicinally for ages.  In the past this oil was known as a fabulous treatment for snake bites, gaining fame during the times people explored the unknown wild west of America.  There you have yet another reason to bring the Oregano essential oil along during those summer treks in the woods.  This essential oil was first found in the mountainous regions of Russia and Europe after which it was labeled the "delight of the mountains".  It is always good to include remedies in your diet that are grown in and around a similar region in which you are living, therefore those of us here in Tahoe would be wise to add Oregano to our medicine cabinet.  When we ingest and apply things that naturally live where we ourselves live we are creating harmony between our bodies and the natural world surrounding us.  The oil of Oregano can help to decrease the symptoms of asthma by calming the respiratory system.  It also decreases mucous making for one of the best cold treatments.  Oil of Oregano has even been shown to lower our chances of cancer by boosting the production of white blood cells in our body and destroying any free radicals.  Because this particular oil helps to relieve menopause symptoms by working with the reproductive system, it is wise for pregnant women to avoid Oregano oil.  Furthermore, Oregano makes for a wonderful antioxidant that helps to boost immunity within the human body.  The oil can also help decrease gum disease and relieve pain associated with toothaches.  If you are searching for an immune boosting tonic you will be very pleased with essential oil of Oregano.  Come by and let us treat you to a wonderfully scented aromatherapy session next time you need a little bit of healthy healing in your life.  Happy Fourth of July, be safe and be well! 
By: Sarah McCallum
Massage Therapist @ NLMSC