Updates from Neli Dume

14 Ways Cedarwood Essential Oil Can Support Your Health and Home



If you’re looking for an essential oil that works just as hard as you do — Cedarwood is it! This warm, woodsy oil isn’t just great for making your home smell amazing — it’s packed with incredible benefits for your skin, hair, emotions, and even your immune system.

1. Helps with Eczema and Skin Irritations

Cedarwood essential oil has soothing and anti-inflammatory properties that can calm down eczema flare-ups (1).
  • Try adding a drop to your daily lotion, mixing it with a carrier oil, or tossing a few drops into a warm bath to ease the itch.

2. Promotes Hair Growth

Cedarwood stimulates hair follicles and improves circulation to the scalp. A study published in Archives of Dermatology showed that a blend of Cedarwood, Thyme, Rosemary, and Lavender essential oils improved hair growth by 44% in people with alopecia areata over seven months (2).

3. Soothes Dry, Flaky Scalp

Its antifungal and moisturizing properties (3) make Cedarwood a great natural remedy for dandruff. Mix Cedarwood with coconut oil, massage into the scalp, and leave on for about 30 minutes before washing.

4. Natural Antiseptic Power

Research shows Cedarwood oil has antimicrobial and wound-healing properties (4).
  • Mix a few drops with coconut oil and dab onto cuts and scrapes.

5. Supports Arthritis and Joint Pain Relief

Thanks to its anti-inflammatory compounds (5), Cedarwood can ease joint pain.
  • Massage diluted Cedarwood oil onto sore joints and muscles or add it to a warm bath.

6. Acts as a Natural Deodorizer

With its warm, grounding aroma and antibacterial properties (6), Cedarwood freshens up your home and eliminates odors.

7. Encourages Better Sleep

Studies suggest Cedarwood has sedative effects (7), promoting relaxation and improving sleep quality.
  • Diffuse Cedarwood before bed for a deeper, more restful night.

8. Works as a Natural Diuretic

Cedarwood is believed to stimulate the urinary system, helping with fluid retention (8).

9. Boosts Focus and Helps with ADHD Symptoms

In one small study, inhalation of Cedarwood essential oil improved focus and learning in children with ADHD by 65% (9).

10. Eases Coughs and Respiratory Issues

When inhaled, Cedarwood’s expectorant properties can help clear up mucus and ease coughing (10).

11. Repels Bugs Naturally

Cedarwood oil has been shown to repel mosquitoes and other insects (11).
  • Add to DIY sprays or use on cotton balls in closets.

12. Provides Stress Relief

Its calming effects can help ease anxiety and tension (12).
  • Diffuse Cedarwood when you need to unwind.

13. Fights Fungal Infections

Cedarwood essential oil has antifungal properties effective against certain fungal infections (13). 
Apply it diluted to problem areas to help clear up skin issues.

Cedarwood essential oil has antifungal properties effective against certain fungal infections (13).

14. Helps Clear Up Acne

Cedarwood’s antibacterial and sebum-balancing properties (14) make it great for reducing acne when added to skin care routines.

✨ How to Use Cedarwood Essential Oil

  • Diffuse it: Add 4–6 drops to your diffuser for a warm, grounding aroma.
  • Topical use: Dilute it with a carrier oil (like coconut or jojoba oil).
  • Bath soak: Mix a few drops with Epsom salts and add to your bath.
  • DIY blends: Add it to body lotions, deodorants, and hair masks!
  • Direct inhalation: Inhale straight from the bottle or rub a drop between your palms.
  • Spot treatment: Dab diluted Cedarwood oil onto blemishes, bug bites, or dry patches.
Always test a small area of skin first to avoid any reactions.

Final Thoughts

Clearly, Cedarwood is a must-have oil for any natural health toolkit! Whether you’re looking to boost your beauty routine, ease stress, improve sleep, or freshen your space, this earthy powerhouse has got you covered.
Ready to start using Cedarwood in your daily life?

References:

  1. Han, X., Parker, T. L. (2017). Molecules.
  2. Hay, I. C., Jamieson, M., Ormerod, A. D. (1998). Archives of Dermatology.
  3. Benencia, F., Courrèges, M. C. (1999). Mycoses.
  4. Onawunmi, G. O. (1989). Fitoterapia.
  5. Juergens, U. R., Stöber, M., Vetter, H. (1998). Phytomedicine.
  6. Boukhatem, M. N., et al. (2014). Asian Pacific Journal of Tropical Biomedicine.
  7. Miyazaki, Y., Motohashi, Y., Kobayashi, S. (2011). Physiology & Behavior.
  8. Leung, A. Y., Foster, S. (1996). Encyclopedia of Common Natural Ingredients.
  9. Arnold, L. E., et al. (2001). Prostaglandins, Leukotrienes and Essential Fatty Acids.
  10. Karaman, S., et al. (2014). Journal of Inflammation Research.
  11. Zhu, J., et al. (2001). Journal of Medical Entomology.
  12. Setzer, W. N. (2009). Natural Product Communications.
  13. Ali-Shtayeh, M. S., Abu Ghdeib, S. I. (1999). Mycoses.
  14. Prashar, A., Locke, I. C., Evans, C. S. (2006). Toxicology Letters.


Natural Wellness at Home: 7 Essential Oil Hacks You’ll Love



Essential oils aren’t just for fancy spas or DIY projects — they’re for real life! These little bottles are packed with powerful plant goodness that can freshen up your home, lift your mood, ease aches, and even help you sleep better.
If you’ve ever wondered how to actually use essential oils every day, I’m breaking it down for you — nice and simple. No complicated recipes or routines. Just real-life ways you can bring a little more natural wellness into your home starting today!


1. Freshen Up Your Fridge

Let’s be honest — sometimes the fridge gets a little funky.
Here’s an easy fix: grab a small bowl, pour in some baking soda, and add about 15 drops of lemon essential oil. Stick it on a shelf, and you’ll have a fresh-smelling fridge for weeks. No more weird odors greeting you every time you open the door!

2. De-Stink Your Shoes

If you’ve got sneakers that could use some TLC, try this:
Add a few drops of peppermint, tea tree, or eucalyptus oil onto a cotton ball, and tuck it into each shoe overnight. You can even make a quick spray — mix water and a few drops of oil in a little bottle and spritz your shoes after wearing them. Easy, natural, and so much fresher!

3. Boost Your Energy

That mid-afternoon crash is real. Instead of reaching for more caffeine, pop a few drops of peppermint or citrus oils into your diffuser.
These oils are natural energizers — they’ll help you feel more awake, clear-headed, and ready to finish strong.

4. Calm a Queasy Stomach

Feeling a little off? Essential oils to the rescue!
Add a few drops of peppermint or chamomile to your diffuser for a soothing aroma. Or dilute some peppermint oil with a carrier oil and rub it on your wrists and temples. It’s especially handy if you’re dealing with motion sickness or that “blah” feeling.

5. Soothe Sore Muscles

Long day? Tough workout? No worries.
Mix a few drops of eucalyptus and peppermint oils with a carrier oil (like coconut or jojoba) and massage it into sore muscles. Not only does it help ease the aches, but the cooling, fresh scent is super relaxing too.

6. Boost Your Immune System

Stay ahead of sniffle season!
Eucalyptus is amazing for supporting your immune system, and when you blend it with lemon oil, it smells fresh and clean. Diffuse them together daily to keep your home (and your body) feeling strong.

7. Keep Bugs Away (Naturally!)

Nobody wants to be a bug buffet.
Bugs can’t stand citrus oils like lemon and lime. Mix a few drops in a spray bottle with water and mist around doorways, windows, or even your picnic table outside. It’s an easy, chemical-free way to enjoy summer without all the swatting.

Final Thoughts

Essential oils are like little bottles of nature’s magic — simple, powerful, and full of ways to make your everyday life a little better.
You don’t need to do anything fancy. Start small. Try one or two of these ideas and see how it feels. You might just fall in love with the way they make you, your home, and your family feel.

Got a favorite oil you can't live without? I’d love to hear about it! 💬✨


References:

Lime essential Oil


Unlock the Zest: The Many Benefits & Uses of Lime Essential Oil

Lime essential oil is like sunshine in a bottle—zesty, uplifting, and incredibly versatile. 🌿 Whether you're dealing with skin issues, feeling run down, or just need a boost, lime oil has your back.
Lime oil is one of those unsung heroes that can make a real difference in your daily wellness routine. Especially for us women over 45, who are juggling hormones, energy dips, and occasional “blah” moods, adding lime oil to your toolkit can feel like a reset button.

This citrusy powerhouse isn’t just a mood-lifter or a pretty scent. It’s a multitasking oil that supports your skin, boosts your immune system, freshens your home, and even adds zing to your recipes.
Lime Essential Oil can be a refreshing part of a daily self-care routine—whether you’re looking to feel more energized, glow from the inside out, or just feel more you.

🍋What Is Lime Essential Oil?

Lime essential oil comes from the peel of unripe limes—cold-pressed to keep all those goodies intact. It has a bright, citrusy aroma that instantly lifts your mood. It’s also packed with powerhouse compounds like limonene and gamma-terpinene, which give it its cleansing and immune-boosting properties.


🌿 Benefits of Lime Essential Oil

1. Mood Booster & Mental Clarity

Feeling blah, foggy, or in a funk? Lime Essential Oil is your go-to. Just a few drops in the diffuser can instantly lift your mood. Try blending it with peppermint or basil for a refreshing burst of mental energy.


2. Immune & Respiratory Support

Lime is known to strengthen the respiratory and immune systems, making it especially helpful during seasonal changes. Diffuse it or apply (diluted) to your chest for added support.
Is great for clearing out the sinuses. If you are feeling stuffy or fighting off seasonal sniffles, pop it in the diffuser!

3. Skin Care Savior

With its antiviral, antibacterial, and clarifying properties, lime oil can help with acne, insect bites, or minor skin irritations. Dilute it with a carrier oil (like jojoba or sweet almond) and apply directly to problem areas—but avoid the sun afterward due to photosensitivity.

4. Supports the Lymphatic System & Weight Loss

Need to get your system moving and support natural detox? Lime oil helps decongest the lymphatic system, which can support weight loss efforts when combined with movement, healthy eating, and hydration.

💧 Ways to Use Lime Essential Oil

Aromatic

  • Diffuse up to 30 minutes, 3 times daily.
  • Inhale directly for a quick mood shift.

Topical

  • Dilute 1 drop with a carrier oil and apply to reflex points, chakras, or targeted skin areas.
  • Use in body oils or balms for a refreshing, uplifting aroma.
⚠️ Note: Always do a patch test and avoid sun exposure on application areas.

Internal Use (Lime Vitality™)

  • Add 1 drop to a capsule with carrier oil and take up to 3 times a day.
  • Spice up your water, smoothies, or desserts with 1 drop for a burst of citrus flavor.

🧼 Around the Home: Cleaning & More

Harness lime’s natural purifying power for non-toxic home cleaning:
  • Add to a spray bottle with water and vinegar to clean surfaces.
  • Diffuse to freshen the air in your kitchen or bathroom.

🌀 Aroma Blends to Try

  • Lime + Lavender – calm and uplift
  • Lime + Peppermint + Basil – mental focus
  • Lime + Ginger – warm, energizing boost

✨ Final Thoughts

Lime Essential Oil is a small but mighty addition to your wellness lifestyle. From your skin to your mood to your kitchen counter, it brings that zest we all need—especially when life feels a bit dull or heavy. It’s about feeling good, naturally.
Want to know how to incorporate lime oil into your personal routine or need help getting your own? I’ve got you! Send me a message or sign up for my newsletter to get more wellness tips and essential oil ideas that truly support you—mind, body, and spirit.


There’s always lime for more joy, energy, and vibrant living. 🌿


📚 References

  • Modak T, et al. Effects of citral, a naturally occurring antiadipogenic molecule, on an energy-intense diet model of obesity. Indian J Pharmacol. 2011 May-Jun; 43(3):300-305.
  • Burke BE, et al. Essential oil of Australian lemon myrtle in the treatment of molluscum contagiosum. Biomed Pharmacother. 2004 May;58(4):245-7.
  • Wilkinson JM, et al. Bioactivity of Backhousia citriodora: antibacterial and antifungal activity. J Agric Food Chem. 2003 Jan 1;51(1):76-81.




Orange essential Oil

🍊 Orange Essential Oil: Sunshine in a Bottle

If you’ve ever peeled an orange and felt instantly happy just from the smell, you’re not alone. That burst of juicy, citrusy scent comes from the oils in the peel—and it’s pure magic.
In my world of holistic health, orange essential oil is a total must-have. It’s affordable, easy to use, and one of the most versatile oils out there. Whether I’m using it to lift my mood, clean my kitchen, or soothe a headache—this oil delivers every time.
Let me share exactly why I love it and how it might become your new favorite too.

🌞 1. Natural Mood Booster (aka A Little Bottle of Joy)

Orange oil is like sunshine in a bottle. Studies show it can help calm anxiety, lift depression, and lower stress levels. Just five minutes of diffusing it can shift your whole energy. Seriously, try it on a Monday morning or after a stressful day—you’ll feel the difference.
🧪 Study note: Komori et al. (1995) found citrus scents like orange helped boost mood and immune function.

💆‍♀️ 2. Stress & Anxiety Relief

One study used orange oil with kids waiting for dental treatments (yep, super stressful)—and it lowered their cortisol (stress hormone) and pulse rate. If it can work in that scenario, it can definitely help with adult overwhelm too.
🧪 Study: Jafarzadeh et al. (2013) on anxiety reduction in children.

🦠 3. Immune Support + Antioxidant Power

This oil is rich in limonene (up to 96%!), a powerful antioxidant studied for its ability to support immunity and reduce inflammation. It’s even been explored for its potential to fight tumor growth. Wild, right?
💡 Bonus: Limonene also supports detox pathways and liver health.

🧼 4. Natural Antibacterial & Non-Toxic Cleaning

Orange oil can help fight off nasty bacteria like E. coli and Salmonella. I mix it into DIY cleaners with tea tree or bergamot to make my kitchen smell fresh and clean—without using harsh chemicals.
🌿 Tip: Add 10 drops to a glass spray bottle with vinegar and water for an easy natural cleaner.

💓 5. Heart & Circulation Support

Studies show inhaling orange oil may help lower blood pressure and improve circulation. It’s a lovely addition to your self-care ritual—think gentle massage with diluted orange oil before bed.

🔥 6. Pain Relief & Anti-Inflammatory

If you deal with joint pain or inflammation, orange oil may help soothe those aches. It’s been used in hospital settings to reduce pain and inflammation. I love using it on sore muscles (always diluted!).

✨ 7. Glowing Skin & Acne Support

Thanks to its antimicrobial properties and vitamin C content, orange oil can help brighten skin, fight breakouts, and even stimulate collagen. Just be sure to patch test and always dilute with a carrier oil.

😴 8. Sleep & Relaxation

Yup—this oil can both energize and calm. Diffuse orange oil before bed to help your mind slow down. Or mix a drop into your evening body lotion to signal that it’s time to rest.

😁 9. Fresh Breath & Healthy Gums

Orange oil can also support oral health! I add a drop to my coconut oil for oil pulling. It freshens breath and helps fight mouth bacteria naturally.

💧 How to Use Orange Essential Oil

  • Diffuse it for 30–60 minutes for a mood or energy lift.
  • Topical: Dilute 1 drop with a carrier oil (like coconut or jojoba) and apply to your chest, wrists, or reflex points.
  • Internal (Vitality line only!): Add a drop to a veggie capsule or warm water if it’s labeled safe (like Young Living’s Orange Vitality™).
  • DIY cleaner: Add to vinegar and water in a spray bottle for surfaces.
⚠️ Important: Like other citrus oils, orange oil can make your skin more sun-sensitive. Avoid direct sunlight on the area for at least 12 hours.

🍊 Fun Facts for Oil Nerds

  • Botanical name: Citrus sinensis
  • Family: Rutaceae
  • Origin: USA, South Africa, Italy, China
  • Extraction: Cold-pressed from the rind
  • Key Compounds: Limonene (85–96%), Myrcene (0.5–3%)
  • ORAC Score: 1,890 μTE/100g (that’s antioxidant power!)

💛 Final Thoughts

Orange essential oil is one of those oils I recommend to every woman over 45. It’s gentle, affordable, and does so much—emotionally, physically, and even around the house.
Whether you want to feel more uplifted, sleep better, or just clean with something non-toxic, orange oil has got you covered.
Let me know how you like to use it—or tag me if you try any of these tips! I’d love to hear your orange oil story 💬💕

📚 References

  • Komori, T. et al. (1995). Effects of Citrus Fragrance on Immune Function and Depression. Neuroimmunomodulation.
  • Jafarzadeh, M., et al. (2013). The Effect of Orange Essential Oil on Anxiety in Children During Dental Procedures.
  • Rai, M. K. et al. (2011). Antimicrobial properties of Citrus sinensis peel oil. Journal of Food Safety.
  • Saeed, M. et al. (2015). D-limonene: A bioactive compound with multipotent therapeutic applications. Journal of Oleo Science.
  • Young, D. Gary. Essential Oils Desk Reference, Life Science Publishing, 7th Edition.


Embrace Spring Naturally with Top 3 Essential Oils


Embrace Spring Naturally with My Top 3 Essential Oils

Spring is a time of renewal and growth, making it the perfect season to embrace the vibrant and uplifting aromas of essential oils. These oils not only support our wellness but also help us reconnect with the energy of the season. At Young Living, we've curated the purest and most potent essential oils to elevate your self-care routine. Here are my top three picks for spring, along with practical tips on how to incorporate them into your daily life.

🌸 1. Lavender Essential Oil: Calm and Soothe

Lavender is the quintessential springtime oil, celebrated for its calming and soothing properties. Whether you're unwinding after a busy day or seeking emotional balance during the transition from winter to spring, lavender oil offers a gentle way to bring peace into your home.

Why I Love It: Lavender is incredibly versatile—it can support skin health, promote relaxation, and even aid in sleep.

How to Use:

  • Relaxing Atmosphere: Diffuse 3-4 drops in the evening to create a tranquil environment after a busy day. It’s my go-to for calming my mind and preparing for restful sleep.
  • Spring Cleaning: Add a few drops to your laundry detergent or dryer balls for freshly scented linens and clothes. It’s a natural way to freshen up your home!
  • Skin Support: Mix a drop with your favorite moisturizer for a gentle and calming touch to your skincare routine. Lavender is amazing for soothing skin irritations or post-sun exposure.
  • Stress Relief: Inhaling lavender oil has been shown to ease anxiety and promote relaxation. Add a few drops to your pillow or use it in a calming massage oil blend.

🍋 2. Lemon Essential Oil: Uplift and Energize

Bright and invigorating, lemon essential oil is like a burst of sunshine in a bottle. It’s perfect for revitalizing your living space, your skin, and your mood. When spring rolls around, it’s time to embrace the cleansing power of lemon to refresh your mind and body.

Why I Love It: Lemon essential oil is uplifting, cleansing, and mood-boosting. It supports digestion, detoxification, and overall energy levels.

How to Use:

  • Natural Cleaner: Combine 10 drops of lemon with water and vinegar in a spray bottle for a powerful, natural cleaning solution. It’s a refreshing, toxin-free way to clean your home.
  • Mood Booster: Diffuse in the morning to start your day with an energizing and positive vibe. Lemon oil’s citrusy aroma will instantly lift your spirits.
  • Oral Health: Add a drop to your toothpaste for a fresh and invigorating burst of flavor and cleanliness. Lemon helps support oral hygiene while leaving your mouth feeling fresh.
  • Digestive Support: Add a drop to warm water or tea to promote digestion and detoxification.

🌿 3. Peppermint Essential Oil: Refresh and Revitalize

Peppermint essential oil is cooling, energizing, and perfect for the warmer days of spring. This oil has an awakening aroma that can help clear mental fog, support digestion, and give you a boost when you need it most.

Why I Love It: Peppermint oil is invigorating and can help relieve tension, support focus, and ease digestive discomfort.

How to Use:

  • Energizing Diffusion: Combine 2 drops of peppermint with 2 drops of lemon for an energizing blend that lifts spirits and clears the mind. It’s my favorite mix for an afternoon pick-me-up.
  • Pre-Workout Boost: Dilute with a carrier oil and apply to your temples and back of the neck for a refreshing and invigorating experience. Perfect for starting your day or before a workout.
  • Focus and Clarity: Inhale directly from the bottle or rub a drop between your palms, then cup over your nose for instant clarity during study or work sessions.
  • Seasonal Relief: Peppermint is also great for seasonal sniffles. Simply inhale the fresh scent or apply a diluted drop to your chest for a cooling effect.

🌿 Pause, Breathe, Reconnect

One of the things I love most about using essential oils—especially in spring—is how they bring me back to nature. Every time I open a bottle, I feel like I’m breathing in a little piece of the earth. It’s a moment to pause and be present, to breathe deeply and feel grounded in the here and now.
In the busy rhythm of life, these small rituals—diffusing oils in the morning, applying them before my walk, or simply taking a quiet moment to inhale—become opportunities for mindfulness. They help me reconnect to my body, my senses, and to the beauty of the season.
If you’ve been feeling a little off or disconnected lately, this spring might be the perfect time to create your own daily ritual. You don’t need to overhaul your life—just a few intentional breaths with your favorite oil can shift your whole mood.

🌿 Final Thoughts: Spring Into Wellness

These three essential oils are not only aromatic but also provide functional benefits to support your health and well-being this spring. Whether you’re looking to promote relaxation, uplift your mood, or stay energized throughout the day, essential oils are a simple and powerful way to enhance your life.



 References:



 
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