I do not talk about it much here on the website, but I am frequently interviewed about this or that.  Mostly, the “this” is about prepping and the corresponding role of women within the context of survivalism.  Lately, the “that” has been about essential oils.

Along those lines, my long-term BFF, George Ure, finally decided to dabble in essential oils. He had questions so I gave him answers. As always, I have strong opinions on the matter but what it all boils down to is that to get started, there are only 5 oils and 2 blends that you really need. All can be purchased for $50 or less.

Here for you are some of my current thoughts on essential oils, presented in a question and answer format.

Wouldn’t you know it?  The day following an interview where I extolled the virtues of an essential oil blend aptly named the “cold and flu blend”, my husband came down with cold symptoms and I had a scratchy throat.  Life is funny that way.

That same day, I went into high gear and began applications of this natural cold and flu medicine three times a day.  In my case, two days was enough because I never developed any additional symptoms.  My husband, however, had a lot of congestion so he has continued the protocol for almost a week.  The good news is that both of us are now fine and had no need to resort to over the counter remedies.  Our natural DIY cold and flu medicine worked.  Of course, I knew it would!

It is my opinion that everyone should have this blend in their arsenal not only for now but for when and if the stuff hits the fan.  It is a do it yourself recipe that you can make yourself.  To the best of my knowledge, it is not available pre-blended.

This is the time of year when we all start thinking about protecting ourselves and our homes from flu-causing germs.  While some choose to get flu shots, I prefer to take matters into my own hands with essential oils in general and a protective and immunity blend specifically.  Many of you recognize these type of blends by their reference to thieves or robbers, and most assuredly, every reputable essential oil company will have their own version of this blend.

That said, you can also make this blend yourself, using a handful of popular and readily available essential oils.

There is a lot of speculation as to how this blend got its name, but the brief version of the legend says robbers doused themselves with a protective blend of herbs and spices before stealing from those who had succumbed to the plague.  More about that in a moment.

This all leads to modern day essential oil blends that are commonly used to ward off illness.  I have been using such a blend for almost ten years and have never once had the flu, have only had an occasional cold, and have enjoyed freedom from norovirus and other illnesses experienced by travelers.

Perhaps it has been luck but to my way of thinking, using an EO protective blend adds a layer of insurance against contracting everyday sicknesses that can make you miserable.  That is where the immunity part comes into play.

While many parts of the country are winding down from summer, here in Arizona we still have a couple of months of sun, heat, and mosquitos.  And when I say mosquitos, I mean lots of mosquitos.

Oddly enough, until a few weeks ago, the mosquitos have been under control and not too bothersome.  But now? Holy moly.  I am a one person itching machine from bites on my arms and ankles.  That, plus the occasional heat rash have me longing for the cool ocean breezes of Washington State. Okay, kidding.

Anyway, to beat the “itch like crazy” sensation I am feeling, I use a DIY anti-itch spray using essential oils and witch hazel  Truly, this stuff really works and is a cinch to make.

Over the past seven or eight years, my skin has gone from less than ordinary to radiant.  I do not say this lightly because not only do I have mature skin, but it has been acne-prone and blotchy throughout my entire adult life.  I credit this transformation to essential oils rather than to the expensive, chemical-laden department store lotions, potions, and serums I used in the 80s, 90s and beyond.

These days, I shun OTC skin care products and make my own.  For years, the crowning jewel in my DIY arsenal has been my “Luminous Face Serum”.  That is still a fantastic concoction but to be honest, it uses 5 different essential oils plus a carrier oil and can be a somewhat of a chore to make.

So here is how this played out.

I was out of my face serum and short on time.  I needed something quick that would not require opening a number of bottles and counting out drops.  I pumped a dab of Rose Hip oil onto the palm of my hand and added a single drop each of Frankincense and Lavender essential oils.  I massaged it into my face, added makeup, and was out the door in no time.  The next morning, my skin was smoother and more vibrant.  I knew I was on to something.

Since that fateful morning, I have been reformulating many of my skin care products to include both Frankincense and Lavender the results have been nothing short of remarkable.  Of all of them, however, it is the face serum that gets most of the credit.  The best part is that it comes together quickly with only 4 ingredients.