What Exactly is Lemongrass?

Lemongrass is a grass that grows in tropical regions and produces a strong fragrant aroma of lemon. It is a long, skinny grass that grows from a tuber. It has a citrus flavor to it and is often used in Thai, Vietnamese and Chinese cooking.


That's the short version.


However, what many people don't realize is that Lemongrass has a wide range of medicinal and therapeutic benefits.


Lemongrass is an analgesic. It offers pain reliefs for a variety of issues including toothaches, sore muscles, intestinal pains, and achiness associated with colds, flu and fever. A few drops added to water, a cup of tea, or a warm soup can help ease these types of discomfort.


Lemongrass is an antidepressant. The scent of Lemongrass naturally elevates one's mood and helps restore balance by easing anxiety and soothing the mind. Lemongrass is especially helpful for mood control when a few drops are added to a diffuser and released into the air.


Finally, Lemongrass is an antibacterial and antiviral agent. It can be used for both internal and eternal cleansing. Taken in a glass of water, Lemongrass assists with helping the body remove toxins via your kidneys and intestines. Lemongrass is believed to help people reduce gassy emissions. Used externally, Lemongrass can help prevent infection in cuts, cure fungal infections and kill bacteria on skin and other surfaces.


With all these fantastic uses for Lemongrass, why not make sure you have this very affordable oil readily accessible in you home?

Rosemary is Not Just a Pretty Name!

Rosemary is one of the most popular essential oils because of its wide array of uses!

Most commonly, Rosemary is used for cooking. However, did you know that Rosemary can also help stimulate hair growth, improve the appearance of skin, increase mental acuity and improve circulation?

Rosemary has a long history of use. It's been  accessed  for over 500 years as medicinal, spiritual and uplifting plant. Harvested from French Mediterranean soils, Rosemary offers a sweet and captivating oil that possesses just a hint of pine aroma to it.

Throughout its long history, Rosemary has been known to assist with a variety of health issues.

For instance, just breathing in the aroma of the essential oil increases mental clarity. This can be done by applying the oil topically to your hand and inhaling it that way. If you would like to share the scent with those around you, a diffuser can be used to increase the area of coverage.This method is also believed to provide headache relief and improved memory. 

Have a cold? Rubbing Rosemary oil on your chest is said to relief that hacking cough and break up congestion.

Thinning hair? Rosemary could be your answer. When applied directly to the scalp - either by mixing with shampoos or through direct massage, Rosemary is said to stimulate hair growth. It can also be used to decrease dandruff. 

Looking for a natural disinfectant? Try Rosemary. When added to soaps, lotions, and even toothpaste or mouthwash, Rosemary can protect a person from the harmful effects of different bacteria.

With such a long history of benefits why not grad a bottle of Rosemary and see how it can naturally improve the quality of your life. Want more information? Check it out HERE. 

Stop Bugging Me!

I don't know about you, but I love everything about the summer - well almost everything.

As a gardener, bicyclist and outdoor lounger, I enjoy the warm weather and uplifting sunshine.

However, one wet-blanket to all that fun is the presence of annoying pests during outside activities.

Think about it: You are gardening, digging deep into the earth, and suddenly realize something is crawling on you. Or, you are having a family barbecue and the next thing you know the whole place is littered with angry yellow jackets. How about trying to relax on the beach only to be the target of some very hungry horseflies.

Nope. I hate that.

So what are your options? Well, you can grab a can on manufactured, synthetic, poisonous bug spray and cover yourself and your loved ones with that, or you can create a natural, safe and highly effective bug spray using doTERRA's TerraShield Repellent Essential Oil blend.

I don't know about you, but this choice seems like a no-brainer. Want to create your own TerraShield Bug Spray? Here is a very simple DIY recipe:

Take a 4-ounce spray bottle, and mix 15 drops of TerraShield with nearly 4 ounces of distilled water. Shake gently to mix.

That's it!

Your TerraShield bug spray is safe to use on yourself, your loved one and your pets. Having an outdoor gathering? Put this mixture in a diffuser and spray into the air to keep bugs away from your guests!

Pretty easy, huh? And safe, too. Given that it is so easy to protect yourself, why wait to see if you win the TerraShield raffle? Order your own bottle now Click here

Feeling the Love of Eucalyptus

I stumbled onto the many benefits of Eucalyptus recently when I was out with my sister-in-law, Jen. 

We were at a craft fair and saw an essential oil vendor. Being that the both of us love EOs, we had to stop and check out his stand!

Even Koala's Love Eucalyptus!

Well, this gentleman began gushing on and on about the many health benefits of this somewhat elusive, and apparently highly-unappreciated oil. 

I have to admit, I myself was guilty of over-looking the therapeutic benefits of this oil simply because I had not develop an appreciation for its aromatic essence.

Boy, did I hang my head low when I realized exactly what I had been missing all this time!

He told us that Eucalyptus essential oil is a highly effective anti-inflammatory and anti-spasmodic agent. Added to a carrier oil, the properties of Eucalyptus dive deep into the layers of your skin and address a variety of underlying and non-descript painful ailments such as muscle pain, nerve discomfort, tendinitis and fibrosis! When applied in a circular motion regularly to the affected areas, age-related and activity-related discomforts disappear.

Wow! I was floored! Here I was missing out on a golden opportunity to relieve my own aches and pains -all because I was a little put off by the smell. And, by the way, now that I have begun to use it regularly, I can honestly say Eucalyptus has a fresh, invigorating smell that also facilitates mental alertness and helps relieve any allergy and illness-related congestion you might be experiencing.

Yup, I learned a lot that day, and it didn’t stop there.

Upon further study, I discovered Eucalyptus is also effective for the disinfection of wounds, the prevention of lice when used in shampoos and laundry, the reduction of fever and the freshening of your home, office or car.

Hmm…. All that and it smells okay, too!

Want to get some of your own Eucalyptus oil? Well here are two easy ways:

1. Sign up for my newsletter at www.joanscannell.com and get instantly entered into the June raffle to win your own bottle.

Or 

2. Don't wait and go to www.mydoterra.com/joanscannell and purchase a bottle of DoTERRA's highly potent Eucalyptus oil.  

Decide which option is best for you!

Peppermint Beadlets are a Welcomed Change!

Oh…..  these days are painfully slow as we creep into Spring. To describe them as doldrums is an understatement! It seems like they will never end. If only we could control the weather…..

Unfortunately, the fact is we have no power over the weather. We have to deal with it, and wait patiently for more pleasant days to arise. However, that doesn’t mean we have to suffer.

We do have a choice with this. We can decide that instead of manipulating the weather into improving, perhaps we can step up our emotions. All we need is a powerful and invigorating jump start to get us moving.

Hello, Peppermint Beadlets!

DoTERRA’s peppermint beadlets offer energy and excitement in a miniature,     powerful package!

Through a unique and exclusive process, dōTERRA has captured the therapeutic benefits of Peppermint essential oil in the convenience of a soft vegetarian beadlet. Each tiny beadlet delivers a refreshing burst of Peppermint as it dissolves in your mouth, while invigorating your senses as you breathe in the cooling aroma of pure Peppermint essential oil.

And, it is more than just a breath mint. DōTERRA Peppermint Beadlets can be used for oral care, respiratory health, digestive comfort, and all other situations in which Peppermint essential oil is used internally.

In addition, the simple and convenient packaging makes beadlets a perfect companion when traveling and when keeping up with a busy on-the-go lifestyle.

For more information on peppermint beadlets or to order your supply, visit: www.mydoterra.com/joanscannell

Protect Your Skin In Hostile Environments

I don’t know about you, but this time of year makes my skin so dry. I am sure this is especially true for those of you who live in colder climates where you find yourselves indoors for most of the day, and covered in many layers of clothes. Add to that the effects of artificial heat sources, and your skin is about as supple as your typical dried-out alligator basking in the Florida sun.

In addition to being rough and cracked, dried out skin is more prone to injury. For instance, paper cuts are much more common in the winter when dry skin is more sensitive to tears. Injuries aren’t the only concern with dry skin.  Without moisture, skin often appears pale, giving you a sallow and exhausted look. So on top of feeling rough, your skin is looking rough, too.

So, what can you do? If you really want to know how to combat this, I suggest you try some of doTERRA’s Citrus Bliss Lotion.

Infusing  doTERRA’s Citrus Bliss Essential Oil Blend with a powerful and highly-absorbent lotion provides you with a delightfully aromatic experience as it softens and hydrates your skin.

Don’t believe me? Check this out: Studies suggest that the antioxidant properties of vitamin C and its role in collagen synthesis make vitamin C a vital molecule for skin health.  It is believed that dietary and topical sources of vitamin C have beneficial effects on skin cells. Some studies have even shown that vitamin C may help prevent pre-maturing aging and may help repair sun-damaged skin.

DoTERRA’s Citrus Bliss Essential Oil Blend combines the powerful essences of Wild Orange, Lemon, Grapefruit, Mandarin, Bergamot, Tangerine, and Clementine with a hint of Vanilla Absolute.  Almost all of these components have very high concentrations of vitamin C. On top of that, everyone knows how uplifting citrusy scents are. We have all experienced the aroma of a recently-peeled orange, lemon,  or grapefruit. It is invigorating to the spirit. Using Citrus Bliss lotion allows you to experience the emotional and physical benefits of this vitamin-C-rich combination.

So, why not try doTERRA’s Citrus Bliss Lotion this winter as a means to improve the feel and appearance of your skin and possibly reverse the damaging effects of the sun. In addition to that, the energizing smell is sure to provide a lift to your mood on days when it appears the weather is trying to do nothing more than bring it down. 

A Beadlet a Day Keeps the Doctor Away

How do you put a price on good health?

The truth is you can’t. And with OnGuard’s Protective Blend Beadlets, you don’t have to.

One reason for this is because doTERRA offers this easy to carry travel pack for only $20. And given the container holds 125 of these beadlets, that is a price of $.16 a serving. Taken just a couple times a day, you can protect your health for less than the price of a large gumball.

On Guard Beadlets

A second reason you don’t have to worry about the price of protecting your health with this doTERRA product is because this month, the OnGuard Beadlets are the February essential oil raffle item.

So, what can you use these for? There are lots of situations when you will be glad to have these Beadlets on your person. Here are just a few:

·         Taking to the air for some winter-getaway-travel? Arrive at your destination free of any cold and flu symptoms that may be floating around the re-circulating air in the plane’s cabin.

·         Do you carpool or take public transportation to work. Take a Beadlet before you leave and after you arrive to alleviate any concerns about the health and hygiene habits of the people around you.

·         Got an annoying co-worker who hacks all over your work space? No worries. You can protect yourself from their illnesses by taking an OnGuard Beadlet every morning and evening.

·         Are you a parent with too many responsibilities to be sick? Maybe you are a healthcare worker or a teacher who comes into contact with a lot of different (and often ill) individuals each day. Taking an OnGuard Beadlet twice a day gives your immune system an extra shot of protection to keep you going when those around you are not.

·         Do you want to just have constant good health? Do you not want to have to worry about introducing nasty little germs into your system? If that is the case, OnGuard Beadlets are a must for you.

For more information about OnGuard Beadlets, or to sign up for my FREE newsletter that provides information on essential oils, go to: http://www.joanscannell.com/essential_oils.html

To directly purchase OnGuard Beadlets, click here: http://www.mydoterra.com/joanscannell/

Avoid the 'Hack-Attack' with Breathe

This is the time of year when everyone around you seems to be getting sick. Maybe you noticed it at the holiday gatherings or perhaps in your work place. Regardless of where it happens, it is a struggle to avoid finding yourself in the middle of ‘Germ Central.’

And, if you are anything like me, you are probably super-sensitive to the ‘hackers’ of the world. You know who they are. They are the ones who sneeze in your general proximity and barely cover their mouths. They may grab a tissue and walk over to speak with you while they blow their nose. While I am sure these actions are an innocent faux pas, it is still annoying and … let’s be honest, disgusting.

Rather than panic or get angry, there are many things one can do about this. One powerful step you can take is to use doTERRA’s On Guard protective essential oil blend regularly to keep your immunity strong. Using this blend twice a day is essential for illness prevention.

However, I understand that sometimes, people forget or they just decide to ‘tempt fate,’ and risk illness. If you choose to do this, it is likely you will contract some sort of respiratory infection. In the event this happens, fear not. You do have a back-up plan available.

At this point, your best move is to use Breathe, doTERRA’s respiratory blend.

Enhanced with the powerful respiratory benefits of Cardamom, Breathe is a remarkable blend of essential oils that combine to help you breathe easier. Breathe supports healthy respiratory function when seasonal threats are high and can be used safely by all members of the family to soothe airways and promote clear breathing.

This proprietary blend consists of Laurel Leaf, Peppermint, Eucalyptus, Melaleuca, Lemon, Ravensara, and Cardamom essential oils, all known for their positive effects on the respiratory system. Breathe can be applied topically to the chest, back, or bottom of feet, or diffused at nighttime to calm the senses and promote sleep.

For best effectiveness, Breathe can be used in the following ways:

Diffuse, inhale directly from palms, or rub on chest or feet when seasonal and environmental threats are high.

It can be used when outdoors to minimize the effects of seasonal changes.

It can be diffused in room to promote clear breathing and at bedtime for a restful night’s sleep.

I can assist the snorer in your family - just rub Breathe on his or her chest before bed for a better night’s rest.

Keep Your Guard up When it Comes to Your Health

Do I have a surprise for you!!!

Maybe it is the holiday season, and I am feeling generous. Or, maybe it is the fact that I know the holiday season brings gatherings and close contact, which – in turn – can lead to colds and illness that intensify the hang-over effect we feel in January during the aftermath of our December fun.

Whatever the reason, my surprise is designed to minimize your chances of contracting some of those nasty bacterial and viral infections that are floating around this month during personal and corporate gatherings.

Use dōTERRA®'s On Guard to stay healthy this season

So what is it? The surprise if the fact that I have selected On Guard – dōTERRA®'s most potent protective oil blend – to be our raffled oil for December.  On Guard is dōTERRA®'s unique, proprietary blend formulated to support healthy immune function.  In simple terms, it is designed to keep you healthy – and boy does it ever!

The blend starts with wild orange essential oil and combines it with clove, cinnamon, eucalyptus and rosemary to offer a fragrant, natural and effective alternative to synthetic options for immune support.

On Guard has a unique aroma. You might even say it smells a bit like Christmas. It can also be diffused into the air as a fine mist. This allows a natural cleansing of the environment, as well as the air we breathe.  

On Guard can be mixed with water and sprayed on counter tops as a non-toxic way to cleanse surfaces. Overall, On Guard is superb for eliminating and controlling pathogens due to the potency of the oils within the blend.

When used twice a day topically, On Guard is a highly effective means of natural protection from colds, flu, and other contagious illnesses.  The blend can be rubbed on the bottom of your feet, on your wrists, your temples or at the back of your neck. Basically, any place is okay, but these spots are the ones most recommended.

Still not sure? Listen to this: Even my reluctant family members have started using On Guard to protect themselves from illness.  I’ll often get, “Hey, where is that stuff – you know, that oil stuff – everyone is sick at school, and I don’t want to catch anything.”

After rebutting my offers in the past, those ‘Doubting Thomas’s’ learned the hard way, and are now on board.  I know you will be, too, as soon as you try it!

Even if you are not the germ-a-phobe-type, I can guarantee that you will love, love, LOVE this mixture. It is probably my favorite blend, and one of my top choices for all of dōTERRA’s products.

On Guard not only provides support to your body, it has a calming aroma that brings peace to your mind and a sense of comfort to your home.

Trust me when I say once you start experiencing the benefits of On Guard, you WILL wonder how you ever managed without it.

Don’t want to wait to see if you win? You can purchase the oil now, simply go to:  www.mydoterra.com/joanscannell/

What Do You Know About Oregano?

Oregano is a popular spice around the world. When you mention the word oregano even the most inexperienced cooks know what it tastes like and for what it can be used. That’s because oregano is what we call a “staple” in life.

I have to admit, I am not much of a cook. I have a few main dishes that consist primarily of chicken and seafood. I have been known to cook an acceptable Thanksgiving meal or two as well. These aren’t necessarily the best meals you will ever eat, but they certainly won’t be the worst either. J The reason for this is because I don’t follow set recipes. I am a cook-as-I-go kinda girl. I throw on a bit of this, a bunch of that and then stick it in the oven and hope for the best.

Invariably, one of my common “secret” ingredients with all these dishes is oregano – yes, even on the Thanksgiving bird!

Oregano has been around for as long as you can search history. It has been used for culinary purposes, medicinal reasons, and was believed to hold magical properties. In ancient Greece and China oregano was a used as a poison antidote. Other medical uses included skin irritations infections, fainting and convulsions. Oregano had other uses as well. According to Greek lore also oregano was created by goddess Aphrodite as a symbol of happiness. For this reason, the Greek believed using oregano in marriage ceremony would provide joy and usage of oregano in funerals would convey peace to the dead. (Maybe that is why it ends up in my cooking? Lol)

The English also used Oregano to encourage good luck and good health.

While modern day uses of Oregano focus primarily on cooking, there are still many health benefits to adding Oregano and DoTerra Oregano essential oil to your daily routine. Extra through steam dilation of the most potent and therapeutic plant sources, DoTerra Oregano essential oil provides a bevy of health benefits.

Antibacterial – Oregano is by far one of the most potent anti-bacterial agents found in nature. Used topically, the oil works well to cleanse open and closed skin surfaces. Diffused in the air, Oregano is an effective immune booster. The vapors are absorbed into your blood stream through your lungs and the oil assists your system in fighting infections throughout your body.

Expectorant – Oregano works as a natural decongestant and anti-inflammatory. When rubbed on the chest in a carrier oil or diffused in the air, Oregano assists in breaking up chest congestion due to colds and flu symptoms.

Anti-parasitic – When ingested in water or with food, Oregano essential oil can assist with the removal of intestinal parasites. When rubbed topically on the skin and in the hair, Oregano keeps away external parasites such as fleas, mosquitoes and lice. (Note – pregnant or nursing women should NEVER ingest Oregano essential oil. Anyone who suspects they have a severe medical condition such as parasites should consult their doctor as well.)

Antioxidant – Oregano essential oil helps cleanse cells of free radicals and slow the aging process  through-out your body.

In General  - Oregano essential oil has been shown to alleviate certain skin conditions such as psoriasis, eczema and athletes foot. It has also been known to treat and ease symptoms of food poisoning.

Things to keep in mind/legal ease –  Oregano essential oil should be diluted with a carrier oil as high concentrations can cause skin irritations. Pregnant women should never use Oregano essential because in high concentrations it is suspected to have the ability to stimulate and regulate hormones – doing so could have potentially harmful effects. .Some people who have similar allergies (such as lavender or basil) may also find they are allergic to Oregano. Overall, while Oregano is safe for the vast majority of people, it is best to speak with your doctor before adding Oregano essential oil to your diet – just to be on the safe side

Life is Sweeter with Cinnamon

Cinnamon. 

It is one of my very favorite spices. I love it in pies, cider, on toast in the morning, or warm buttered carrots with an evening meal.

I know when I think about fall, my olfactory senses are drawn to the calming aroma of cinnamon that seems to permeate the air. We have a huge craft fair in a neighboring town every September. People stand in long lines for the chance to buy a dozen of the best cider donuts you could ever hope to taste. 

The tantalizing scent of cinnamon wafting around the grounds makes the long line tolerable. It seems to calm the masses which may have waited patiently for their reward after what seems like quite a lengthy time.

Yes, cinnamon is a very popular spice.

However, few people realize that cinnamon is also a very powerful essential oil that provides people with a great deal of health benefits.

When diffused in the air, cinnamon essential oil can encourage self-acceptance and self-esteem. It is also a natural aphrodisiac and boosts sexual confidence. Cinnamon is said to possess emotional healing qualities that allow an individual to release pain from severe disappointments and trauma. In addition, Cinnamon also helps create a feeling of safety and security. It has a natural soothing effect on people who are feeling jealous, insecure, obsessive or controlling. The spicy, warm scent can help support both healthy relationships and health boundaries.

Here are some other common uses for Cinnamon Essential Oil:

Airborne and bacterial infections: Diffuse this oil during cold and flu season, or add to a cotton ball and stick in your car's vent while you drive. At home diffuse cinnamon in the air or use it topically to prevent or assist in the treatment of infections.

Breathing: For respiratory issues, diffuse Cinnamon in the air. You can also dilute it with a carrier oil and apply it to the chest and neck.

Cooking: Cinnamon oil is can be used in cooking. Start off with only a small amount – just a single drop – because it is quite potent and you don’t want to “over-season” you food. Once you are comfortable with the potency, you can alter the amount you add.

Immune System Booster: Diffuse throughout cold and flu season, within your workplace or add to the bath or steam tent when you feel ill.

Special note – Never apply cinnamon directly to the skin unless it has been diluted with a carrier oil. Doing so may cause individuals with sensitive skin to experience irritation. In addition, none of these health benefits have been evaluated or approved by the FDA. Cinnamon oil should not be used in place of sound personal judgment or medical treatment when needed. 

September - The Second Happiest Time of Year.... Or Not?

So many parents look forward to the return of the school year.  I often think of the commercial where the parents are happily sailing through the back-to-school aisles on the edge of a cart singing to the Christmas tune, “It’s the most wonderful time of the year…”

In contrast, the children are trudging behind them with hanging heads sad to see the ho-hum, peaceful days of summer quickly drift away.

A field of Lavender

I don’t know about you, but I am with the kids on this one. To me, summer is a time of relaxation and peace. It has a do-what-you-want and move-at-your-own-pace mentality to it.

Conversely, the start of the school year has that go-go-go feel to it. The best analogy I can use is that of a river. Summer is like the slow-moving languid wide parts of this body of water. It is peaceful, calm and restorative to the spirit.

The start of the school year is similar to the narrows of the river rapids. It’s when the speed of the water picks up its pace and appears to take on a life all its own. If you have ever bee rafting or canoeing through rapids you know you really have no control over where that boat goes. You are at the mercy of the current. Where it goes, you go to – for better or worse.

That is how I feel at the beginning of a new school year. It’s a time where peace and tranquility meet absolute pandemonium.

In order to navigate this hectic time, I turn to one of my very favorite essential oils – lavender.

Lavender is an oil that has been used for many reasons because of cleaning and healthful properties.  It is one of the most popular and used of the essential oils. Lavender is steam distilled from the flowering tops of plants. DōTerra Lavender is steam distilled from the flowering tops of plants from France (fine high altitude) and Bulgaria (super high altitude).  These are joined together in equal ratios.

Because of this special blending, Lavender is a powerful elixir for the mind, body and soul. Some of its most common uses include: 

Sleep support – Putting lavender drops on their pillows works like magic. It will help ease your mind, calm you down, and assist with a restful .

Burn and wound aid - Because of the gentle properties of Lavender it can be applied topically on even some of the most sensitive of skin.  Topical application to burns, minor cuts, and bruises almost always produces successful results.   

Stress relief - By using a diffuser this same soothing aroma can help with stress or other mental strain with adults and children.  

Skin repair - When you’ve slightly overdone it in the sun, a little lavender oil is helpful in preventing peeling skin. It aids in your skin’s healing without scarring as well.

Laundry cleaning - Energize your linens with lovely smelling lavender.  It leaves no oil marks and leaves things invigoratingly fresh

Lavender is most commonly used topically, added to bath water or diffused in the air. However you choose to use lavender, be assured it will assist you as you make the transition between the calm of summer and the energetic pace of the fall. 

Finding Balance in Everyday Chaos

I recently posted a picture of the Disney character Olaf on my Facebook page. Under his photo, I wrote the words, “Summer…. I just love summer…”

In case you don’t know who Olaf is, he is the lovable snowman from the recent Disney blockbuster hit Frozen. His claim to fame is his simplicity in thought and action. He has the unique ability to handle any situation with grace and genuineness.

In our fast-paced, crazy word, that is not easy to do. We become overwhelmed with our demands and responsibilities and lose our inner peace.

That is where this month’s chosen essential oil blend comes in.

The essential oil for August is Balance. Known as DoTerra’s ‘grounding blend’, Balance is designed to promote inner tranquility and harmony.

Balance possesses a warm, woody aroma that creates a sense of calm and well-being.  The blend mixes the oils of Spruce, Ho Wood, Frankincense, Blue Tansy, and Blue Chamomile with Coconut Oil to offer an enticing fragrance that promotes tranquility and a sense of peace. Spruce, one of the oils in Balance, was used by Native Americans for medicinal and spiritual reasons, and is still used today to bring harmony to the mind and body. Ho Wood, Blue Tansy, and Blue Chamomile can soothe sore muscles and joints, promote circulation, and relax the body. Frankincense supports cellular health and overall well-being.

When used in a diffuser or applied topically, Balance is thought to promote whole-body relaxation, sooth sore muscles and joints, and evoke feelings of overall calm.

Doterra Balance Essential Oil Blend can be applied to the bottom of your feet, at your wrists or near your temples to promote a peaceful feeling. Carry it on your person to apply a few drops throughout the day to maintain a feeling of calm. Diffuse it at home, in your car or office to promote a tranquil atmosphere for yourself and others.

Whenever you choose to use it, DoTerra’s Balance will help you feel as calm and relaxed – like Olaf in the summer - regardless of how life’s situations attempt to turn up the heat. 

Feeling Great With Citrus Bliss

When I think of citrus, I think of beautiful weather, Florida oranges and the beach.

Okay, picture this: You are sitting in the shade of a palm tree or beach umbrella, lounging carelessly as a gentle breeze caresses your body and dances through your hair. The sound of waves are a soothing backdrop as you soak in the smell of summer. A peaceful scene unfolds all around you and you reach to take a sip of your fruity, frozen cocktail.

Oh yeah, that is what I am talking about.

To me, citrus is like the summer – it provides that opportunity for an energizing break from the grind that is so essential to replenish the spirit. That is why I chose DoTerra’s Citrus Bliss Essential Oil for the July showcase.

DoTerra’s Citrus Bliss Invigorating Blend combines the powerful essences of Wild Orange, Lemon, Grapefruit, Mandarin, Bergamot, Tangerine, and Clementine with a hint of Vanilla to form this unique and harmonious blend. Diffused or worn topically, this invigorating blend will uplift and make anyone’s day a little brighter.

Citrus Bliss was especially blended for the purpose of mood elevation, so regardless of the time of year, a few drops in your diffuser will provide an instant pick-me-up for your entire household.

In addition to using in a diffuser to elevate one’s mood, Citrus Bliss can be used as a natural cleanser in the home. Mixed with water and used in a spray bottle, Citrus Bliss works as an antibacterial agent. In addition, this mixture can be sprayed on fruits and vegetables to clean them prior to eating. Want to freshen your linens, your shoes, your couch or your car? Mix Citrus Bliss with water and spritz on your sheets, your furniture or any place that needs a bit of a pick me up.

Think about it. You are about to begin the tedious task of house cleaning, and are not feeling so good about it. However, after a few squirt of Citrus Bliss, you home and your mind are a lot brighter!

Citrus Bliss can even be mixed with a carrier-oil and used as a clean smelling aftershave that will also soothe skin, especially after irritating shaves. Note – it is very important that you do NOT expose skin directly to the sun that has been treated with Citrus Bliss. Doing so could increase one’s chances for a sunburn.

Whatever you needs, Citrus Bliss is the perfect essential oil blend to soothe you outer and inner world. Add a few drops of Citrus Bliss to your routine and watch your issues melt away.

Enliven Your Summer with Lime Oil

I have a confession to make. I LOVE the summer. I mean I REALLY love the summer. This is probably because I love the heat and despise the cold. For me, there is no such thing as “too hot.”

Ask anyone who knows me well and they will tell you stories of my 80+ degree walks on beautiful summer days wearing – get this – a sweat shirt. Yes, I can definitely tolerate the heat better than the average person. As a matter of fact, it wouldn’t even occur to me that high temperatures were a bother, except for the fact that just about everyone in my family has a very low tolerance for the heat.

Yes, they complain and whine about soaring summer heat, and all the while tell me I am some freak of nature because I don’t break a sweat the entire sweltering season.

The truth is, I have a very high tolerance for heat. I love it and can be out in it for a very long time. In fairness, I always make sure to drink plenty of fluids – especially water. I don’t particularly like plain water so I need to flavor it to get enough of it in my system. Up until a few years ago, I spent a great deal of money on expensive additives to flavor my water with a variety of fruit flavors. That was until I learned I could add just a few drops of my favorite fruity essential oil and have a refreshing and invigorating drink.

While I like most fruit flavors, my favor one is Lime. Just a few drops of Lime essential oil in a cold bottle of water enlivens me physically, emotionally and mentally. Perhaps this is because DoTerra Lime essential oil is extracted by cold compression of fresh lime peels. This process maximizes flavor and protects the chemical composition of the extracted oils. People don’t realize that limes are a lot like lemons - full of antioxidants and other beneficial nutrients.  Lime boosts the immune system and has an anti-viral component to it. This is especially beneficial for people looking to stave off those nasty summer colds.

It addition to its lively flavor, Lime has the unique ability to increase one’s mental alertness while decreasing feelings of anxiety. It is a natural mood stabilizer. This keeps you going during potentially stressful family picnics or long-busy days with the children.

Finally, Lime is an excellent astringent. So, when you are not cooking with it or adding it to other food for natural flavoring, you can keep it in your medicine kit. A few drops on a fresh wound will work wonders when it comes to preventing infection.

Whatever your plans are this summer, bring some Lime along. The small compact bottle will provide a multitude of support to protect and energize you throughout your busy summer days

 For more information about the many benefits of dōTERRA Lime Essential Oil blend or to order a bottle for yourself, visit my webpage www.mydoterra.com/joanscannell.

 Don't forget to click on the link below to have your name entered in a drawing to win a FREE bottle of dōTERRA Lime Essential Oil.