I'm all about that "snake oil"

I know many of my friends feel essential oils are nothing but fake liquids that people "think" make a difference. I am NOT one of those people. I have seen so many benefits from essential oils, but I do not currently have a favorite. I have heard really good things about Young Living and DoTerra, but those prices are way out of my price range. I have also heard really good things about Plant Therapy and Instanatural, so I was very excited when Instanatural sent me two containers of oil to try out around my house.

I was sent the lemon and peppermint oil to try since I use lavender regularly. I had to do a lot of Google searches to determine the best way to use these oils because they didn't come with a tutorial. I must say that the aroma of these oils is extremely strong and they are very good at letting you know you NEED to dilute before using.

Lemon Essential Oil

Lemon is a natural cleanser and it helps remove grease or oil. I add lemon in my water when I am detoxing, but I do not agree with consuming essential oils. I know that many companies say their oils are pure enough to do it, but it is so unnerving for me to be okay with it. However, here are some ways I have found the lemon essential oil useful in our house.

• Disinfectant - We have a potty training toddler. Laundry can be a bit stinky. I add a touch of the lemon essential oil to the wash and it removes all of the urine smell. Luckily, she doesn't have too many night accidents. You can also use lemon essential oil and tea tree oil to create a mold remover for your bathroom, although I have heard some swear by using vinegar in the water.


• Skin Cleanser - Lemon essential oil is great for cleaning your skin. It will take off all of the oil and goo, but you will also find this product in many beauty products. Lemon will cleanse your skin and kill any bacteria that becomes clogged in your pores.


• Mood Regulator - Use lemon oil in a diffuser or place on your lymph nodes to naturally lift your spirits. It will also help you boost your immune system, which will help you stay happier as well.

Peppermint Oil

When I first used peppermint oil, I thought I had Thin Mints in my house. It was AWFUL. My stomach growled and made me grumpy. So ... be warned. Now, I loved this oil when I was suffering from a mild cold because I could sleep through the night without the cotton mouth the next morning. It has many more benefits though!

• Nausea - Peppermint is one of my two favorite things to help ease nausea (the other is ginger). When this oil is diluted, you can simply rub the oil on your stomach to help soothe your stomach. However, did you know that the peppermint aroma will help control your appetite (yeah, I am not sure how much it helped since my mind only thought cookies were around).


• Stress Reducer - Peppermint, like lemon, will help lift your spirit and boost your energy. Peppermint, lavender, and chamomile make for a great combination to de-stress at the end of the day and prepare for a well-rested sleep. You can also apply diluted oil on your neck to help clear your mind.