As the temperature drops and the days grow shorter, it’s essential to take proactive steps to support our immune system during the Winter months. From incorporating immune-boosting foods and herbs into our diet to practicing stress management techniques, there are several natural ways to bolster our defenses and stay healthy all season long. Take a look at these effective strategies for winter immune support to help you navigate the colder months with confidence.
INCORPORATE IMMUNE BOOSTING FOODS
During Winter, it’s crucial to fuel our bodies with nutrient-dense foods that support immune function. Focus on incorporating a variety of colorful fruits and vegetables rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Citrus fruits like oranges, grapefruits, and tangerines are excellent sources of vitamin C, which plays a vital role in immune health. Additionally, include immune-boosting foods such as garlic, ginger, turmeric, and mushrooms in your meals to provide added support.
HARNESS THE POWER OF HERBAL REMEDIES
Herbal remedies have been used for centuries to support immune function and ward off illness. Consider incorporating immune-boosting herbs such as echinacea, elderberry, astragalus, and ginseng into your daily routine. These herbs contain potent compounds that help strengthen the body’s natural defenses and enhance overall immune function. Whether consumed as teas, tinctures, or supplements, incorporating these herbs into your winter wellness regimen can provide valuable support for your immune system.
STAY HYDRATED
Proper hydration is essential for supporting overall health and immune function, especially during the Winter months. Cold weather and indoor heating can lead to dehydration, which can compromise immune function and make us more susceptible to illness. Aim to drink plenty of water throughout the day and incorporate hydrating beverages like herbal teas, warm lemon water, and broths into your routine. Hydrating foods such as soups, stews, and fruits with high water content can also contribute to your daily fluid intake.
MANAGE STRESS
Chronic stress can weaken the immune system and increase the risk of illness, making it essential to prioritise stress management during the Winter months. Incorporate relaxation techniques such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, yoga, and mindfulness practices into your daily routine to help reduce stress levels and promote overall well-being. Engaging in activities that bring you joy and relaxation, such as spending time outdoors, practicing hobbies, or connecting with loved ones, can also help alleviate stress and support immune health.
PRIORITISE YOUR IMMUNE HEALTH
As we navigate the Winter season, it’s important to prioritise our immune health and take proactive steps to support our body’s natural defenses. By incorporating immune-boosting foods and herbs into our diet, staying hydrated, and managing stress, we can strengthen our immune system and enhance our overall well-being. By adopting these natural strategies for winter immune support, we can stay healthy, happy, and resilient all season long.
Do these tips sound good to you!? Let me know what you would add.
What the world needs now is love, yes, more love.. but also.. more light.
Maybe they’re one and the same.
Most of us know how to express love whether that’s to the people we are closest to, or strangers on the street. But do you know how to give more light?
It starts with first recognising it within your self and then as if by magic, or more likely by divine grace, your light inspires someone else to shine too.
THINGS HAVE CHANGED
Have you noticed a change in the energy of people these days?
Truly, the last few years have knocked us all for a six.
Even for those who are usually pretty good at keeping their vibe high. It’s been hard hearing all the stories of people who have been hurt and lost so much. But there’s been a lot of growth too. A lot of reaching out and community spirit resurfacing. And that’s a good thing!
So what can you do to help boost your own mood?
LET’S TALK ESSENTIAL OILS
I know there are a lot of things you can do, and I talk more about that here but this post is supposed to be about how to boost your mood with essential oils, so that’s what we’ll talk about today.
First of all, essential oils by their very nature have a profound effect on our mental and emotional health.
Simply by inhaling them you immediately activate the limbic part of the brain which is where we process emotions and house memories.
You can’t really go wrong with choosing an essential oil to try, however there are some that are especially helpful to boost the mood.
THE POWER OF CITRUS ESSENTIAL OILS
Any of the citrus oils, hands down, will do the job.
Lemon, orange, bergamot, lime etc. They’re just so vibrant, smell so fresh and are super high in d-limonene. You can’t help but smile when you breathe these babies in.
OTHER MOOD BOOSTERS
Clary Sage (floral)
Lavender (floral)
Frankincense (balsamic/resin)
Geranium (floral)
Ylang Ylang (floral)
Eucalyptus (wood)
Ginger (spice)
Rosemary (herb)
All of these oils will help to boost the mood either by awakening the senses, reducing stress or both!
You don’t need to use all of them all at once, just intuitively choose one or two to work with and switch it up from time to time. Inhale straight from the bottle, diffuse or dilute and apply topically as needed.
NEW TO OILS?
I have a free Essential Oils Course that goes through the basics of essential oils, how to use them safely, how to save money and everyday uses for your home, beauty, health and more!
I also have a discount code for you if you’d like to try the same top notch oils that I use.
Massage is one of those things that not everyone enjoys but everyone needs!
There are so many health benefits that I could write numerous posts on it, but for now, I’ll just list a few..
reduces stress and anxiety
reduces tension in the body
relaxes tight muscles
improves digestive function
lowers cortisol
relaxes nervous system
lowers heart rate and blood pressure
improves blood circulation
improves function of lymphatic system
improves function of immune system
improves sleep
increases energy
improves alertness
improves flexibility
I could literally go on and on and if you are someone who has experienced a wonderful massage, you will know how it feels to float off the table when it’s done.
The effects of a good massage can last for weeks, especially if taken regularly.
AROMATHERAPY MASSAGE
Have you ever added essential oils to your treatment?
Aromatherapy massage has its own unique sequence, primarily to improve lymph flow and relax the body.
By adding essential oils to any massage session you will not only be gaining the benefits of the massage but also of the specific oils that are chosen.
Your therapist may already have a selection of oils to choose from, however they also may allow you to bring your own.
Here are my favourite massage blend recipes for relaxation..
Add essential oils to a 50mL glass amber dropper bottle, then top up with your chosen carrier oil.
I have a free Essential Oils Course that goes through the basics of essential oils, how to use them safely, how to save money and everyday uses for your home, beauty, health and more!
I also have a discount code for you if you’d like to try the same superior quality essential oils that I use.
I have a free Essential Oils Course that goes through the basics of essential oils, how to use them safely, how to save money and everyday uses for your home, beauty, health and more!
I also have a discount code for you if you’d like to try the same superior quality essential oils that I use.
Have you ever been diligent with your water intake yet still feel a lack of hydration? There might be other factors working against you.
One of those factors could be stress.
When you experience stress, your adrenal glands produce extra cortisol, the stress hormone, and under chronic stress, your adrenal glands can become exhausted, resulting in lower electrolyte levels.
Low electrolyte levels means your body is not efficiently maintaining and regulating the correct amount of fluid in the body which leads to dehydration.
Dehydration zaps your brain’s energy, impedes serotonin production, increases stress in the body and can even elevate the recurrence of anxiety and panic attacks.
So you can see, it’s a vicious cycle of dehydration causing stress and stress causing dehydration.
SUPPORT THE KIDNEYS
Some studies have shown that frequent dehydration, even if it’s mild, may lead to permanent kidney damage. So the sooner we make hydration and support of the kidneys a priority, the better.
Here are some of the ways we can support them..
Drink more water – aim for light yellow/colourless urine
Keep active and fit
Avoid processed meats and high sodium foods
Avoid common non-prescription pills like ibuprofen and naproxen (NSAIDs)
Reduce stress and maintain healthy blood pressure
Increase intake of dark leafy greens, apples and berries
Avoid alcohol and smoking
Detox from heavy metals
Eat probiotic rich foods and supplement
Boost immune system
HERBS FOR ADRENAL SUPPORT
Ashwagandha – helps regulate stress, improves sleep and energy. Schisandra – tones the kidneys RhodiolaRosea- supports healthy cortisol levels HolyBasil – maintains equilibrium with the stress system in the body Eleuthero – increases the ability to withstand stress
Vytalyte Drops – ionic trace minerals and salts to improve electrolyte balance
Essential Oils – bergamot, black spruce, cardamom, cedarwood, clary sage, frankincense, geranium, ginger, lavender, peppermint, pine, rosemary and vetiver.
Dilute your favourite combo and apply topically to the kidney/adrenal area.
For an all natural and healthy electrolyte drink that you can make from home and have on hand when you need some extra hydration.. check out this post:
Ever been stuck in a funk that you just can’t seem to shift?
Try one of these 10 restorative and uplifting essential oils to rebalance and improve the mood and get you moving in the right direction.
PEPPERMINT
Peppermint essential oil has a sharp, stimulating aroma that can feel like an energetic slap in the face. Breathe it in to increase vitality and motivation, especially if you are feeling disconnected with your surroundings and what you’re doing in this life. Peppermint helps us to refocus on who we are and what we want to achieve. It brings wisdom, alertness and spiritual awareness.
BASIL
Basil essential oil has a warm, peppery, aniseed-like aroma that is stimulating to the mind and emotions. Breathe it in to encourage positivity and creativity and help you to tap in to your true desires and purpose. Basil is a great oil to use when you need to make big decisions as it ‘switches’ on the mind while cleansing any lingering thoughts away that no longer serve you.
ORANGE
Orange essential oil has a fruity, fresh aroma that imbues the essence of creativity and childhood. Breathe it in to uplift the mood and create a space of lightheartedness and regeneration of spirit. Orange encourages feelings of positivity, joy and magnificence, while allowing the body and mind to let go of past experiences that may be keeping you feeling stuck.
BAY LAUREL
Bay laurel essential oil has a spicy, sweet, fresh fragrance that has traditionally been used as a symbol of victory. Breathe it in to encourage confidence and fortitude when planning and reaching for your goals. It’s also a useful oil for those times when the way ahead seems uncertain or when you need a little extra courage. Bay Laurel provides inspiration, protection and a sense of direction.
YLANG YLANG
Ylang Ylang essential oil has an intensely sweet, floral aroma that increases self-esteem and confidence. Breathe it in to uplift the mood and to awaken a feeling of enthusiasm for life. Ylang ylang helps you to forgive yourself and others and has the ability to dissipate anger. It’s calming, yet joyful, playful energy reminds you of all the beauty and wonder in the world and that you equally are a part of it.
MELISSA
Melissa essential oil has a light, fresh and somewhat citrus aroma that brings understanding and a feeling of strength. It’s a useful oil when dealing with negative and repetitive emotions as it helps us to break through these limitations and rise above what we once thought we couldn’t. Melissa brings a sense of peace and protection as you take steps forward to improve your life.
LEMONGRASS
Lemongrass essential oil has a grassy, lemony, citrus aroma that not only cleanses the physical body but also the spiritual. Use this oil to help clear negative experiences such as shame, regret and unforgiveness to encourage feelings of positivity, upliftment and progression. Lemongrass helps us to become clear with our thoughts and reminds us that all outcomes are based on the choices we make.
CARDAMOM
Cardamom essential oil has a spicy, green and sweet aroma that enlivens the spirit and increases feelings of abundance and prosperity. It can be used to clear the senses, stimulate creativity and help motivate you to reach for your heart’s desire. Cardamom helps us to connect to our higher purpose, especially during times of overwhelm and stress and can improve feelings of gratitude.
CISTUS
Cistus essential oil has a musky, sweet balsamic aroma that has traditionally been known to soothe the heart. It is a useful choice when feeling disconnected from your spirituality and life purpose. Cistus can be used to help shift from a place of fear, to a place of unconditional love and acceptance. Use it during times of loneliness, isolation and grief or when you just need some more harmony and balance in your life.
FRANKINCENSE
Frankincense essential oil has a warm, sweet and spicy, balsamic aroma that has been traditionally used in spiritual practice for thousands of years. Breathe it in to help you stay connected to spirit and help induce feelings of emotional stability and a sense of unity. Frankincense gives courage in hard times as it calms the emotions and helps you to feel grounded and secure. The ultimate comforter and protector.
So that’s my Top 10 essential oils to help you out of a funk.
Which one have you tried or which one would you like to add to your emotional home wellness kit?
Sometimes when we think of the word detox we immediately think it involves drinking some horrible concoction to get our bowels moving.
A colon cleanse can be useful to help the body detox from toxins, however it is not the only way!
These 5 detox smoothie recipes are not only delicious but they use wholefoods that nourish your body while gently supporting your detoxification pathways at the same time.
Simply blend up all ingredients and enjoy!
THE SKIN SMOOTHIE
1 cup frozen mixed berries
1 tbl acai berry powder
1 tbl hemp seeds
250 mL coconut milk
250 mL almond milk
1 tsp coconut syrup
splash pure vanilla extract
THE LUNG SMOOTHIE
1 cup chopped pineapple
1 granny smith apple
1 handful baby spinach
1 Lebanese cucumber
1 lime (skin on for extra anti-inflammatory benefits)
2 cm piece ginger
handful of mint leaves
1 cup coconut water
THE KIDNEY SMOOTHIE
2 carrots
1 grapefruit
1 lemon
2 cm piece ginger
1 – 2 cm piece turmeric
pinch cayenne pepper
THE LIVER SMOOTHIE
2 lemons
1 grapefruit
1 green apple
1 cup chopped pineapple
2 sticks celery
1 carrot
chopped parsley (to taste)
THE COLON SMOOTHIE
1 beetroot
1 red apple
1 pear
2 cups frozen strawberries
1 cup chopped lettuce
Adding lettuce provides beneficial fiber and other benefits to the smoothie but mixing green with red fruit and veg can make the end result brown. Which doesn’t look all that appetising!
If you’d prefer to keep your smoothie nice and red, just skip the lettuce and pop it in your salad instead!
Does the idea of growing your own medicine seem exciting to you?
Here are 10 plants that you can easily grow in your garden that have medicinal benefits.
COMFREY
Comfrey prefers moist soil in a sunny or partially shaded site. The leaves and flowering tops are gathered in Summer and the roots in Autumn. Wear gloves!
Due to comfrey’s rapid healing potential, use on clean wounds only.
useful in First Aid
known as ‘knitbone’
useful for sprains, strains, bruises, aches and pains, arthritis and ulcers
speeds up the healing of bones and tissues
useful expectorant
reduces gastrointestinal and bronchial inflammation
applied topically as a poultice, cream or macerated oil
Avoid during pregnancy. Not to be taken internally.
ECHINACEA (coneflowers)
Echinacea prefers fertile, moist, well-drained soil in full sun. The leaves can be gathered anytime during the growing season and the roots can be dug out in Autumn after flowering.
Echinacea is best taken as a tincture and combines well with elderberry for respiratory conditions.
Dilute and use as a lotion for wounds and bites.
natural antibiotic
immune booster
shortens the duration of colds and flu
useful for coughs, colds, earache, viral infections and sore throats
joint and cartilage healer
spider and snake bites
insect sting
may help prevent severe infection
Avoid high doses which may occasionally cause nausea and dizziness.
CHAMOMILE
Both German and Roman Chamomile prefer a sunny position in the garden with well-drained, slightly acidic soil. The flowers are gathered in Summer.
Chamomile is best known as a calming tea but when cooled can also act as a soothing lotion to relieve hot, irritated or inflamed skin.
helps to relieve eczema, skin rashes, sunburn and hives
calms digestive system and feelings of nausea
relieves indigestion and gastrointestinal spasms
helps with feelings of nervousness
reduces stress and insomnia
may relieve menstrual cramps due to antispasmodic nature
reduces itchiness
reduces fever
soothes the nerves
Chamomile may cause contact dermatitis. Avoid if allergic to the Compositae family.
CRAMP BARK
Cramp bark prefers to grow in moist, well drained soil in sun or in dappled shade. Collect the inner bark in Spring and Summer while the plant is in flower.
It’s no surprises how this amazing plant can help you. Just look at the name!
Best used as a tincture.
relaxes the muscles
antispasmodic
useful for menstrual cramps and excessive bleeding
reduces backache and muscular spasms
Avoid during pregnancy.
CAYENNE
Cayenne (or chile pepper) loves to grow in pots with loads of good quality compost. Gather in Summer when the fruit is ripe and dry in the shade.
Cayenne is most often used in cooking but has traditionally been used as a warming remedy. Use the powder or fresh fruit (including the seeds) to make a macerated oil or tincture.
Can be used in warm water too.
stimulates the circulatory system
regulates blood flow
helps to maintain healthy blood pressure
strengthens the heart, arteries, capillaries and nerves
may arrest internal and external bleeding
clears phlegm from the lungs
reduces sinus congestion
Excessive use of cayenne pepper can lead to gastric irritation. Avoid touching the eyes when handling.
YARROW
Yarrow prefers full sun and well drained soil. Flowers can be gathered as soon as they appear and the leaves and other aerial parts in Summer.
Yarrow was traditionally used to treat wounds however it is also beneficial to both the urinary and respiratory systems.
combine with lime blossoms and hawthorn for healthy blood pressure
may assist with arteriosclerosis
soaked cotton balls in tincture for nosebleed
assists with fever, promotes sweating
boosts immunity
tones blood vessels
stimulates digestion
urinary antiseptic
assists with cystitis
wound healing
reduces menstrual cramps
reduces colds and flu
yarrow root for dental pain
Avoid in pregnancy.
GRINDELIA (gumweed)
Grindelia prefers light to medium sandy soil and full sun. Collect the aerial parts as soon as the flower buds open and dry in the sun.
Traditionally Grindelia was used to treat dermatitis caused by poison ivy.
assists with asthmatic and bronchial conditions
relaxes smooth muscles and heart muscles
helps to reduce catarrh and upper respiratory congestion
useful in treating cystitis and bladder infections
may help to reduce blood pressure
may increase heart rate to assist with healing
useful expectorant
antispasmodic
antimicrobial
Grindelia is not recommended for those with heart or kidney conditions.
CALENDULA (marigold)
Calendula prefers to grow in well drained soil in full sun but will also tolerate some shade. Collect the flowers in Summer and take care when drying to prevent discolouration.
Calendula is a popular plant that is prized for its versatility. Best used as an infusion, tincture, cream or macerated oil.
stimulates healing and is soothing to the skin
useful for abrasions, rashes, eczema, ulcers and wounds
antiseptic, great for first aid
reduces inflammation on the skin
may be useful for wound healing and external bleeding
helpful when used on bruises and strains
useful cleansing agent and healing cream
apply to minor burns and scalds
use the macerated oil to prevent stretch marks
helps regulate healthy menstrual flow
helpful for digestive conditions like gastric and duodenal ulcers
Avoid if allergic to ragweed, daisies, marigold, or plants in the Asteraceae/Compositae family.
MALLOW (common mallow)
Mallow loves well drained soil and prefers full sun, however it will tolerate dappled shade as well. Collect the flowers and leaves in Summer.
The entire plant is edible and is commonly used as a compress, tincture or infusion.
useful for bladder infections
helps to recover from gastritis and stomach ulcers
helps to treat bronchial inflammation, laryngitis and pharyngitis
aids respiratory health and reduces catarrh
used topically against abscesses, boils and minor burns
soothing to the throat due to mucilage content
soothing to wounds, rashes and insect bites
may act as a gentle laxative
relieves anxiety and nervousness
Mallow is a safe, edible plant when harvested in proper locations and not contaminated. You might even find it in your own backyard!
PLANTAIN
Plaintain enjoys moist, poor to moderately fertile soil in full sun or partial shade and can often be found growing in hedges, pavement cracks and grassy areas. Gather the leaves in Summer from unpolluted areas.
Plantain is a common weed that is traditionally used in first aid. Use topically in the form of a poultice or ingest as a syrup, infusion, tincture or juice!
natural antihistamine action
useful for venomous bites and stings
soothes irritation from rashes
combine with calendula to treat cuts and abrasions
treats bladder infections
reduces excess fluid in the body
useful for coughs and mild bronchitis
naturally astringent and antiseptic
supports tissue regeneration
helps in cases of diarrhoea and haemorrhoids
All information provided on this website is for informational purposes only. Please seek professional advice before commencing any treatment.
“Greenwashing, also called “green sheen”, is a form of marketing spin in which green PR and green marketing are deceptively used to persuade the public that an organization’s products, aims and policies are environmentally friendly.“
Yikes! Thanks Wikepedia.
I wish I knew about this 25 years ago when I had my first baby.
I eventually figured it out, but it wasn’t because somebody told me.
So here I am today to let you know, just in case you’ve never heard of it!
GREENWASHING
Greenwashing has been around probably as long as we’ve had people waking up and realising that the products they were putting on their family weren’t really that nice.
Companies recognised a trend that mummas and care-givers were looking for natural solutions and environmentally friendly products, especially those with little ones that were struggling with conditions like asthma and eczema. So they rebranded their products, or came up with some new ones, that would be more appealing and sell well in the market.
Sadly, greenwashing is a ploy to make you think you’re doing the right thing, using “natural” products, but when you dig a little deeper and research the ingredient list, you find out that what you thought you were putting on your brand new baby, isn’t “organic” at all and it’s actually really bad for the environment.
Yep, that was me. I trusted the company and brand because the label said things like “100% pure” and “organic”. It had a pretty picture of a cute baby and a serene earth and I thought, this HAS to be natural.
I was horrified to discover that what I was putting on my little one had ingredients that were linked to infertility, hormone disruption, asthma, neurological problems and skin allergies.
From that moment on I decided to always look closer and make sure the company truly delivers a product that is safe and beneficial to me, my family and the planet.
Lavender is such an underrated essential oil, maybe because it’s so readily available!
Do you have some at home? Most people do.
Or maybe you have a grandma who used to grow it in her garden..
12 REASONS TO LOVE LAVENDER
Lavender works on serotonin receptors in the body to help balance the mood. It has been used to treat anxiety and depression and it helps to calm the nerves. Use it after a long day when you feel mentally and physically drained and any time you need to de-stress.
Lavender helps regulate sleep patterns and prepares the body for a restful night’s sleep. Insomnia is a common issue today and studies have shown that the chemical structure of lavender may increase time spent in deep, slow-wave sleep. Sprinkle a few drops on your pillow or diffuse at bedtime.
Lavender is soothing and balancing to the skin. Use it on itchy bites or any areas that are red or inflamed. Skin disorders such as eczema and psoriasis may also benefit from lavender’s soothing nature. Use it to hydrate irritated and sensitive skin.
Lavender naturally contains antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties and can be a useful ally during seasonal changes. Dilute and apply topically alongside the nose, sinus, throat and chest area and try a swipe along the inside of cheek. Be sure to always only use the absolute purest and unadulterated essential oils. Most on the market are not what they say they are!
Lavender helps fight infections with its natural antiseptic and antifungal properties. Keep it on hand to treat minor cuts, scrapes, irritations and burns. Lavender essential oil is also great for when you’ve been a little too kissed by the sun. Combine with aloe vera or use on its own.
Lavender promotes hair growth by protecting the hair follicles from oxidative stress. Add it to your all natural hair care routine to nourish the scalp, or try out this Mermaid Waves Hair Spray recipe!
Lavender helps to relax the muscles, reducing discomfort in the body. Dilute and apply topically to any areas that need support. Apply to the temples and breathe in the aroma to help alleviate a tight headache. (Try peppermint if your headache is of the pounding variety).
Lavender can even out skin tone and help reduce redness. It may also help to prevent scarring by promoting cell and tissue growth. Lavender helps to balance acne prone skin.
Lavender helps promote collagen synthesis and stimulates fibroblasts, making it a good choice for wound healing. Quick application post-injury can also reduce bruising. Try making a cool compress.
Lavender has antioxidant properties that protect the skin from environmental stressors like pollution and UV rays that accelerate the skin’s aging process. Use it in your favourite organic moisturiser or make a facial spritz and use any time of the day.
Lavender supports respiratory and immune health. Use it alongside eucalyptus and frankincense (or on its own) during times of physical exhaustion or anytime you need to breathe deeply and easily.
Lavender is a true adaptogen bringing peace and calm to you and your personal space. Breathe in straight from the bottle or diffuse in your favourite ultrasonic diffuser for lasting, healing benefits.
THE IMPORTANCE OF PURE
Lavender is such a readily available and abundant herb that you don’t have to look far to find the essential oil on the shelves. Unfortunately there is no governing body that ensures that what you purchase is actually what’s written on the label. Many manufacturers cut corners, adulterate and synthetically manipulate their “essential oils” to reduce costs but at the end of the day you are left with a product that has no therapeutic value and can even cause more harm then good!
If you have ever received a headache from smelling Lavender essential oil, it may very well be because it was synthetically put together or had a synthetic component added to it. It really pays to know where your oils come from and how the plants are farmed, harvested and distilled.
ALL NATURAL BEAUTY WITH LAVENDER ESSENTIAL OIL
Here are some recipes for you to try that incorporate the soothing and healing benefits of this gentle oil.
I have a free Essential Oils Course that goes through the basics of essential oils, how to use them safely, how to save money and everyday uses for your home, beauty, health and more!
I also have a discount code for you if you’d like to try the same superior quality essential oils that I use.
