Medicinal Use of Essential Oils
The Best Way To Oil Pull
To help detox and keep your smile bright and shining, mix EO with unrefined, organic coconut oil. Here are some tips:
Like most other detoxification procedures, the best time to oil pull is first thing in the morning right after you get out of bed.
Swish between 1 – 2 tablespoons of coconut or sesame oil in your mouth for 20 minutes. Easy peesy! Don’t worry, you won’t even notice 20 minutes have gone by if you do this during your normal morning routine
Immediately afterwards, rinse your mouth out with warm water. Use salt water for added antimicrobial properties. Be sure NOT to swallow the oil. And don’t spit out the oil in the sink, because it WILL coagulate and clog your drains! Don’t be shocked if the oil/saliva mixture you spit out is milky white or yellow. Finally, brush your teeth as normal.
I recommend oil pulling 3-4x per week.
Note: This should be a relatively relaxing process, so don’t think that you need to swish your mouth with oil for the entire time or else you’re bound to wear out your jaw muscles. Simply move the oil in your mouth and through your teeth without swallowing any of it.
Adding Essential Oils
I’m one of those of “if 1 is good, then 10 must be better” kind of guys, and I’m always trying to find ways to enhance and maximize the things that I do. When it comes to oil pulling it dawned on me pretty early on:
If I’m swishing coconut oil in my mouth for 10-20 minutes, then why not add some antimicrobial essential oils to the mix?!?
Essential oils carry some of the most potent antibacterial and anti-fungal properties on the planet, so they can only help, right? Plus, as the essential oils get absorbed by the oral mucosa, the body will enjoy their antioxidant and medicinal powers. Plus, because the oil pulling oil acts as a carrier oil, I haven’t experienced any harmful effects of using some of the more potent oils like clove.
Here are a few of my favorite ways to use essential oils during my morning oil pulling routine:
Add 1 drop each of clove, orange, lemon and peppermint with 1 – 2 tablespoon of coconut oil.
If you’re battling an infection or something, I would change it up and mix clove with oregano and tea tree as a homeopathic remedy.
Oils from herbs such as cilantro, basil and thyme are also very pleasant.
Frankincense and myrrh is a sacred mixture.
At the end of the day, you have nothing to lose, but everything to gain from oil pulling. There are relatively no known side effects and, as we’ve seen in the research, the list of benefits is quite remarkable. Try it today and make it a part of your natural hygiene routine!
Oil Pulling Research
As stated by one study, “The myth that the effect of oil-pulling therapy on oral health was just a placebo effect has been broken and there are clear indications of possible saponification and emulsification process, which enhances its mechanical cleaning action.”
In other words, oil pulling works by cleaning (detoxifying) the oral cavity in a similar way that soap cleans dirty dishes. It literally sucks out the fat-soluble toxins out of your mouth and creates a clean, antiseptic oral environment that contributes to the proper flow of dental liquid that is needed to prevent cavities and disease.
These 3 studies help explain the efficacy of this ancient oral health procedure in a little more detail:
In 2008, the Journal of Indian Society of Pedodontics and Preventative Dentistry published a triple-blind random control trial that evaluated the effects oil pulling with sesame oil has on Steptococcus mutans bacterial count in plaque and saliva. Twenty boys were recruited to be part of two groups; one in which 10 practiced oil pulling and another that used chlorhexidine mouthwash, the active ingredient in most anti-cavity mouthwash, for 10 minutes every day in the morning. After collecting samples for 2 weeks, it was discovered that, even though chlorhexidine was more effective in reducing the bacteria, oil pulling was significantly effective in killing S. mutans, one of the primary causes of cavities.
In 2011, the same journal shared the results of a similar study that evaluated the effects oil pulling has on halitosis (bad breath) and microorganisms that cause bad breath. Again, taking 20 young volunteers, the results of this study were even more in favor of oil pulling than the one above. According to the authors, “Oil pulling therapy has been equally effective like chlorhexidine on halitosis and organisms, associated with halitosis.” Additionally, the researchers discovered that oil pulling also has statistically significant effects on reducing the gingival index, a marker that determines the severity for gingivitis.
Dr. Abhinav Singh – Department of Public Health Dentistry, People’s College of Dental Sciences and Research Centre, Bhopal, India – wrote an article in The Indian Journal of Dental Research that describes how “brushing is contra indicated in the cases of mouth ulcer, fever, indigestion, those who have tendency to vomit, asthma, cough, thirst.” Consequently, many people who suffer from these conditions are left with no other alternative, but to oil pull to clean their oral cavity. As has been seen for centuries, oil pulling therapy is preventative, as well as curative, and can be used to avoid many surgeries and medications.
Other oil therapies are suggested by researchers to foster oral health, as well. According to Singh, “Ayurveda advises oil gargling to purify the entire system; as it holds that each section of the tongue is connected to different organ such as to the kidneys, lungs, liver, heart, small intestines, stomach, colon, and spine, similarly to reflexology.”
Dr. Z's Essential Oil Database
Benefit of 15 Essential Oils
by Dr. Josh Axe/ Dr. Joseph Mercola
1. Clove Anti-bacterial, anti-parasitic and antioxidant protection. 2. Cypress: Improves circulation, reduces varicose veins, lifts confidence and can help heal broken bones. 3. Eucalyptus: Improves respiratory issues like bronchitis, sinusitis and allergies. Also invigorating and purifies the body.
4. Frankincense: Builds immunity, reduces inflammation, heals age spots, supports brain and fights cancer.
What Is Frankincense Oil?
Frankincense, also known as olibanum, comes from the Boswellia genustrees, particularly Boswellia sacra and Boswellia carteri. The milky white sap is extracted from the tree bark, allowed to harden into a gum resin for several days, and then scraped off in tear-shaped droplets.
Boswellia trees grow in African and Arabian regions, including Yemen, Oman, Somalia, and Ethiopia. Oman is the best known and most ancient source of frankincense, where it's been traded and shipped to other places like the Mediterranean, India, and China for thousands of years.
The highest-quality frankincense is clear and silvery, but with a slight green tinge. Brown-yellow varieties are the cheapest and most readily available. In Oman, the best frankincense is usually reserved for the sultan and is rarely shipped out of the country.
Frankincense is traditionally burned as incense, and was charred and ground into a powder to produce the heavy kohl eyeliner used by Egyptian women. Today, this resin is steam-distilled to produce an aromatic essential oil with many benefits.
Frankincense oil has a woody, earthy, spicy, and slightly fruity aroma, which is calming and relaxing. It's said to be sweeter, fresher, and cleaner than frankincense resin.
Uses of Frankincense Oil
Frankincense oil has long been revered in the Middle East, where it's been used in religious ceremonies as an anointing oil for thousands of years. It is also a popular ingredient in cosmetics, and has even been found in the remains of Anglo-Saxons and ancient Egyptians.
I believe that frankincense oil is one of the top essential oils you can use for your health. It's known for its comforting properties, and is useful for visualizing, improving one's spiritual connection, and helping overcome stress and despair.
In aromatherapy, frankincense oil is either inhaled or diffused via a vaporizer – a very effective sedative that induces a feeling of mental peace, relaxation, and satisfaction, and helps relieve anxiety, anger, and stress.
Frankincense oil promotes healthy cell regeneration and keeps existing cells and tissues healthy. It's useful for skin health, and can help treat dry skin, reverse signs of aging, and reduce the appearance of stretch marks and scars. Frankincense oil's astringent properties help:
Strengthen gums and hair roots
Stop wounds from bleeding
Speed up the healing of cuts, acne, insect bites, and boils
Benefits of Frankincense Oil
The health benefits of frankincense oil are mostly attributed to its anti-inflammatory, astringent, antiseptic, disinfectant, digestive, diuretic, and expectorant properties. It also has cicatrisant, carminative, cytophylactic, emenagogue, uterine, and vulnerary effects.
Frankincense oil is considered a tonic, as it benefits all the systems operating in the body, including the digestive, respiratory, nervous, and excretory systems. It also aids the absorption of nutrients and strengthens your immune system.16 Frankincense oil has been found useful for certain health conditions, such as:
• Arthritis and rheumatoid arthritis (RA) — Research by Cardiff University scientists found that frankincense can inhibit the production of key inflammatory molecules, helping prevent the breakdown of the cartilage tissue that causes these conditions.17
In addition, Indian frankincense or boswellin, also a member of the Boswellia genus, has been found to significantly reduce inflammation in animal studies. It is actually one of my personal favorites, as I have seen it work well as a natural painkiller for many of my former rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients.
• Colds and respiratory disorders — Frankincense oil can break up phlegm deposits in your respiratory tract and lungs, and can relieve bronchitis-related congestion.18
• Oral health problems — The antiseptic qualities of this oil can help prevent bad breath, cavities, toothaches, mouth sores, and other infections.19
• Digestive disorders — Frankincense oil speeds up the secretion of gastric juices, bile, and acids, and stimulates peristaltic motion to allow food to move properly through your intestines.20
• Uterine health — Frankincense oil regulates estrogen production in women and reduces the risk of post-menopause tumor or cyst formation in the uterus (uterine cancer). It also regulates the menstrual cycle of premenopausal women.21
Frankincense is also being studied for its potential to treat cancer. Scientists have observed that there's an agent in this oil that may help stop cancer from spreading.
5. Ginger: Reduces inflammation, supports joints, improves digestion and relieves nausea. 6. Grapefruit: Supports metabolism and cellulite reduction. Mix with coconut oil and rub on areas of cellulite or take a few drops internally with water. 7. Lavender: Helps with relaxation, improves mood and heals burns and cuts. 8. Lemon: Great to use in homemade cleaning products, improves lymph drainage and cleanses the body.
9. Myrrh: Natural anti-septic and can prevent or reduce infections. Also, supports beautiful skin, reducing stretch marks and hormone balance.
Myrrh Oil Benefits & Uses
Myrrh is most commonly known as one of the gifts (along with gold and frankincense) the three Wise Men brought to Jesus in the New Testament. It was actually mentioned in the bible 152 times! Myrrh was important in biblical times as it was used as a spice, a natural remedy, or to purify the dead.
Myrrh oil is still commonly used today as a remedy for a variety of ailments. Researchers have become interested in myrrh due to its potent antioxidant activity and potential as a cancer treatment. It has also been shown to be effective in fighting certain types of parasitic infections.
What is Myrrh?
Myrrh is a resin, or sap-like substance, that comes from a tree called Commiphora myrrha, common in Africa or the Middle East. Myrrh is botanically related to Frankincense, and is one of the most widely used essential oils in the world.
The myrrh tree is distinctive due to its white flowers and knotted trunk. At times, the tree has very few leaves due to the dry desert conditions where it grows. It can sometimes take on an odd and twisted shape due to the harsh weather and wind.
In order to harvest myrrh the tree trunks must be cut into to release the resin. The resin is allowed to dry and begins to look like tears all along the tree trunk. The resin is then collected and the essential oil is made from the sap via steam distillation.
Myrrh oil has a smoky, sweet or sometimes bitter smell. The word myrrh comes from the Arabic word “murr” meaning bitter. The oil is a yellowish, orange color with a viscous consistency. It is commonly used as a base for perfume and other fragrances.
Two primary active compounds are found in myrrh, called terpenoids and sesquiterpenes, both of which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.
Sesquiterpenes specifically also have an effect on our emotional center in the hypothalamus, helping us remain calm and balanced. Both of these compounds are under investigation for their anticancer, antibacterial benefits as well as other potential therapeutic uses.
Myrrh Oil History
Myrrh essential oil has been used for thousands of years in traditional healing therapies and in religious ceremonies. Common myrrh oil uses historically, include:
Fragrance Embalming Flavoring for food Treating hay fever As an antiseptic to clean and heal wounds As a paste to help stop bleeding
The Chinese frequently used myrrh as a medicine, and it remains a part of traditional Chinese medicine to this day. The main myrrh oil use by the Egyptians was for embalming and the Jews used it to make the holy anointing oil that was used in worship services.
The most common historical myrrh oil use was to burn the resin over hot coals. This would release a mysterious, spiritual presence into any room before a religious ceremony. It has also been used in aromatherapy for its meditative quality or for prayer, usually in combination with frankincense.
The smell of myrrh has been traditionally seen as a symbol of suffering, burned at funerals or other sad events. But, at times myrrh is blended with citrus oils to help produce a more uplifting aroma. These lighter blends have been used to help promote inspiration and emotional insight.
Myrrh Oil Benefits
Myrrh oil has many potential benefits, although further research is needed to determine exact mechanisms of how it works and dosages for therapeutic benefits. Here are some of the main benefits of myrrh oil use:
- Potent Antioxidant
A 2010 study in the journal of Food and Chemical Toxicology found that myrrh could protect against liver damage due to its high antioxidant capacity. Although this particular study was conducted with rabbits, there is some potential for uses in humans also.
- Anti-Cancer Benefits
Myrrh has also been found to have anti-cancer benefits. A 2011 found that myrrh was able to reduce the proliferation or replication of human cancer cells. Researchers found that myrrh inhibited growth in eight different types of cancer cells, specifically gynecological cancers. Although further research is needed to determine exactly how to use myrrh for cancer treatment, this initial research is promising.
- Anti-Bacterial and Anti-Fungal Benefits
Historically, myrrh was used to treat wounds and prevent infections. It can still be used in this manner on minor skin irritations such as athlete’s foot, ring worm, and acne. Apply a few drops to a clean towel first before applying it directly to the skin.
- Anti-Parasitic
A medication has been developed using myrrh as a treatment for fascioliasis infection, a parasite that has been infecting humans worldwide. This parasite is generally transmitted by ingesting aquatic algae and other plants. A medication made with myrrh was able to decrease symptoms of the infection, as well as a drop in parasite egg count found in the feces.
- Skin Health
Myrrh can help maintain healthy skin. It can help soothe chapped or cracked skin. It is commonly added to skin care products to help with moisturizing and also for fragrance. Ancient Egyptians used it to prevent aging and maintain healthy skin.
- Relaxation
Myrrh is commonly used in aromatherapy for massages. It can also be added to a warm bath or applied directly to the skin.
10. Oregano: Powerful anti-microbial properties, can kill fungus and help you kick a cold fast. 11. Peppermint: Supports digestion, improves focus, boosts energy, fever reducer, headache and muscle pain relief. 12. Rose: Incredible for reducing skin inflammation and great for creating glowing skin. Add a few drops to your facial moisturizer. Also, one of the most valued essential oils in the world at $1000+ for 15ml.
13. Rosemary: Can naturally thicken hair so it is great to add to homemade shampoos. Also, it improves brain function and memory so it’s great to used when working, reading or studying.
Uses of Rosemary Oil
You can use fresh rosemary-infused oil on your salads as a delicious dressing. The herb itself has a thousand uses, and it extremely hardy and therefore easy to grow and maintain whether inside or out. You can add an entire sprig to your soups for a unique flavor.
According to Modern Essentials,5 a guide to the therapeutic uses of essential oils, high-quality rosemary oil has analgesic, antibacterial, anticancer, anticatarrhal, antifungal, anti-infection, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and expectorant properties.
The book's A-Z list of rosemary oil uses covers many health concerns, including for the following:
Clarity – Add a drop to your hands, rub together, and cup over your mouth and nose for up to a minute
Cough – Massage one to two drops over your chest and throat every few hours
Headaches – Add a drop to your hands, and cup over your mouth and nose for up to a minute. You may also apply a drop topically to the aching parts of your head.
Learning and memory – Diffuse the oil throughout the room, inhale directly from the bottle, rub over your temples, or apply to your toes regularly.
Vaginal infection – Massage one to two drops in or around the vagina, making sure to test for sensitivity before attempting internal use.
Both rosemary oil and teas are added to shampoos and lotions. Regularly using the oil helps stimulate follicles, aiding in long, strong hair growth. You can also massage your scalp with the oil to nourish it and remove dandruff.
Rosemary oil can also be used on your pets as a hair growth stimulant and for helping produce shiny coats.
This essential oil is a disinfectant and is often used as a mouthwash, helping remove bad breath. By removing oral bacteria,
rosemary oil can prevent cavities, plaque buildup, and other dental issues. The mesmerizing aroma of rosemary is worth noting, too, making it an excellent inhalant.
Rosemary oil is used in candles, perfumes, bath oils, fresheners, and cosmetics, boosting mental energy when inhaled.
Used with 50:50 dilution, rosemary oil can be applied on ankles and wrists(two to four drops), applied to chakras or vita flex points, directly inhaled, diffused, or as a dietary supplement.
Benefits of Rosemary Oil
Rosemary oil has been extensively used and studied since ancient times for a variety of health benefits. Today, it is included in many medicinal preparations, with many potential offerings. Organic Facts cites some of them:
- Indigestion – Rosemary oil is often used for this relieving flatulence, stomach cramps, constipation, and bloating. The essential oil is also deemed helpful in stimulating appetite.
Research shows that rosemary essential oil can help detoxify the liver and help regulate the creation and release of bile, a key part of the digestive process.
- Stress relief – Aside from its aromatheraupeutic benefits, rosemary oil is seen to decrease the level of cortisol, one of the hormones released during the body's flight-or-flight response to stress, in the saliva.
According to the 2007 study,9 inhaling rosemary and lavender oils for five minutes significantly reduced cortisol levels in the subjects' saliva, potentially decreasing the dangers of chronic stress.
-. Pain relief – Rosemary essential oil is promoted for its ability to relieve pain, which is why it's widely used in treating headaches, muscle pains, and even arthritis.
Massage the affected area with the essential oil, which you can also add to vapor baths for the treatment of rheumatism. Its anti-inflammatory qualities make it a good way to address pain from sprains and joint aches.
- Immune system boost – The same 2007 study that found reduced cortisol levels after simultaneous massage and inhalation of rosemary essential oil found that the free radical-scavenging activity in the subjects' bodies also significantly increased.
Antioxidants are a valuable weapon to fight off infection and disease, so this benefit of rosemary oil is welcome news – regularly using or inhaling it can support your immunity and help you fight off diseases linked to free radicals.
- Respiratory problems – The scent of the oil has been shown to provide relief from throat congestion, and in treating respiratory allergies, colds, sore throat, and the flu.
Its antiseptic action also makes rosemary oil useful for respiratory infections. Because of its antispasmodic effect, it is also used in certain treatment programs for bronchial asthma.
It blends well with oils like lavender, frankincense, clary sage, basil, thyme, citronella, lemongrass, chamomile, and peppermint.
14. Tea tree oil (melaleuca): natural anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, reduces bad odors and can help stimulate the immune system. 15. Sandalwood: Natural aphrodisiac that improves libido and can also improve energy.
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Frankincense - Amazon.com Review
Excellent Product! Using it Medicinally. By Rosey on January 21, 2016 I watched a documentary (The Truth about Cancer) where the woman got rid of her brain tumor by using a certain variety of Frankinscense called "Boswellia Serrata." So i started looking around at different companies and reading reviews. I found this organic one on Amazon from this company, WellnesScent." I love their essential oils, they are of exceptional quality. I spoke with the company directly and was told the bottle is filled with 100% essential oil, no fillers or carrier oils.
In just a short time, barely through half of my first bottle, i have noticed shrinkage, and my scars from surgery looking better, and dimpled skin becoming more normal. All in all, the outward appearence is much improved which by itself makes me happy but i know the inside is also improving too. I am also doing other natural things but this is an addition that i have noticed additional improvements so wont be without.
This EO does so many good things for your body/skin, sick or not. And i think it is a great protector even if you're healthy since its so good for so many things, and one of the strongest of the EO's.
The woman i saw in the documenatary put one drop on top of her tongue and held to the roof of her mouth every two hours. She had healed from a brain tumor.
I am using 30 drops of this essential oil in 1 ounce of carrier oil, organic sweet almond oil, and i rub it on the part of my body with cancer (breast cancer) and sometimes on my feet once or twice a day but i havent been consistent with my feet. I read several people also rub it on their feet which probably makes sense since we have our Reflexology points there. You will have to see how much your body can tolerate. Every body is different so experiment & research, googleing is very useful.
I am also starting to use 30 drops of this EO in 1 ounce of pure Argan Oil to use a little of that mixture on my face at night. I read if you do use it internally should be organic, and in that documentary people are using it under the tongue which gets it right in your blood stream & will pass the blood brain barrier, which makes sense from my years of researching health, 1 drop every 2 hours when ill. But like i said, this is what i saw in the documentary & what i have researched you'll have to do your own. Using this as an add on to other things you are doing may prove very useful?
One lady noticed a difference from her first bottle from this company with her son's tumor getting smaller and she is going back to order another bottle.
They will also get you access to their free E-book on how to use the oils in so many different ways, and with other oils too which i want to explore, which was very useful. This company is family owned and operated and i have received "exceptional" customer service in answer to my questions, which is rare these days! I hope everyone who writes a review, having received benefits, will also say "what" they did, and "how" they did it so it can be replicated. Doesnt help much if all you say is "it worked." I hope my review helps some. To your health!
Update: 4/24/2016, just came back from the Hoxsey clinic in mexico. I think my results were speeded up having added this in my regimine of other natural things. 2 drops (straight from the bottle) under the tongue, hold for at least a minute before drinking water, 3-4 times a day. I had 3 small spots/tumors, the one in my lymph is inactive & shrank down by 50%, the other 2 in my breast are gone. I did/took exactly what the doctors told me to do! To your Health!