This week, I have been listening to the Detox Summit sponsored by the Institute for Functional Medicine.  It was a wonderful refresher course which helped jog my memory in regard to my detox training a few years ago.

It made me think of how lucky my family is to have essential oils. An essential oil as simple as lemon oil contains high doses of the flavonoid d-limonene. Limonene has been extensively studied for its activity against tumor growth and immune modulating properties.  It also has a calming effect on the mind to mediate the stress response which perpetuates detrimental health effects.

High flavonoid oils are citrus oils and their uses include (information extracted from Gary Young’s Wellness Essentials) :

  • Orange (Citrus aurantium) was believed to bring joy, peace, and happiness to those who possessed it.

Orange also contains limonene. This means orange may prevent the growth of bacteria. It is elevating to the mind and body. It may also help a dull, oily complexion.

  • Tangerine (Citrus nobilis) contains esters and aldehydes…

Aldehydes assist with calming, immune support, lymph decongestion, and fluid balance.

  • Lemon (Citrus limon) …

Lemon contains compounds that have been studied for their effects on immune function. It increases microcirculation, which may improve vision. It may be beneficial for the skin. It has been found to promote leukocyte formation, may help with cellulite, increase lymphatic function, and promote a sense of well-being. Its fragrance is stimulating and invigorating.

  • Mandarin (Citrus reticulata) is appealing, gentle, and promotes happiness.

Because of its calming properties, mandarin may help support sleep and ease the mind. It has also been studied for its ability to protect against microbes and support digestion.

  • Grapefruit (Citrus paradisi) works as a mild disinfectant. 

It may be beneficial for digestion, maintenance of a healthy weight, reducing water retention, and skin rejuvenation.

A few weeks ago, I also reported on oils ability high in phenylopranoids. These can actually clear out cell receptors of all the nasty chemicals and hormone disrupting toxins which prevent optimal cell function.  Phenylopranoids also increase the master antioxidant, glutathione. The oils highest in phenylopranoids are Clove (90%), Cassia (80%), Basil (75%), Cinnamon (73%), Oregano (60%), Anise (50%), and Peppermint (25%).

 

Essential Take-Home Tips

1. I try to combine the high phenylopranoid oils with the citrus oils to help cleanse out my little cell receptors and protect them from exposures daily.  One of my favorite recipes is a 2 drops to peppermint with 3 drops of lemon in a 24 oz glass of water.

2. Of course, diffusing to protect ourselves from mold and indoor pollution is also vital in order not to be continually exposed to toxins.

Want to learn more about how to incorporate essential oils into your everyday life?

Below are some resources for you:

1. This first link provides information on:

  • 120 uses of the EveryDay Oils (10 oils)
  • An introduction video and guide for using the everyday oils
  • Resources for the business
  • The benefits of the Essential Rewards Program

http://dr-lobisco.vibrantscents.com/pack/RDJG6UCX

2. The second is a 16 page booklet on each of the oils in the kit:

Click here: http://vibrantscents.com/wah2kpne

3. A video introduction of the everyday oils (18 minutes)

http://vibrantscents.com/nv.php?id=32-3248510-1400239082.mp4

4. Quick tips on how to use oils (6 minute video)

http://vibrantscents.com/nv.php?id=32-3248510-1406048953.mp4

5. You can also learn about the oils at workshops or listen to the teleseminar recordings on your own time here.

 

Disclaimer: This information is applicable ONLY for therapeutic, Grade A essential oils. This information DOES NOT apply to essential oils that have not been AFNOR and ISO standardized. There is no quality control in the United States and oils labeled as “100% pure” need only contain 5% of the actual oil. The rest of the bottle can be filled with fillers and sometimes toxic ingredients that can irritate the skin.
This information is for information purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, or prescribe for any illness.

 

References:

  • Flavonoids and cancer prevention: a review of the evidence. J Nutr Gerontol Geriatr. 2012;31(3):206-38. doi: 10.1080/21551197.2012.702534.
  • Dietary flavonoids as cancer prevention agents. J Environ Sci Health C Environ Carcinog Ecotoxicol Rev. 2011;29(1):1-31. doi: 10.1080/10590501.2011.551317.
  • Physicians for Social Responsibility. Cancer and Toxic Chemicals. http://www.psr.org/environment-and-health/confronting-toxics/cancer-and-toxic-chemicals.html.
  •  Antioxidative effects of lemon oil and its components on copper induced oxidation of low density lipoprotein. Arzneimittelforschung. 2001 Oct;51(10):799-805. PMID: 11715632
  • Plant phenylpropanoids as emerging anti-inflammatory agents. Mini Rev Med Chem. 2011 Sep;11(10):823-35.
  • D-Limonene: a review of its safety and clinical applications.  Altern Med Rev. 2007 Sep;12(3):259-64. PMID: 18072821.
  • Citrus peel use is associated with reduced risk of squamous cell carcinoma of the skin. Nutr Cancer. 2000;37(2):161-8. PMID: 11142088.