“Sometimes the most important thing in a whole day is the rest we take between two deep breaths.” 
~ Etty Hillesum

February's Scent of the Month:

Ginger Oil

information provided by Dr. Mercola

Warm, spicy, and energizing, ginger oil comes from the root of a pungent, unique-looking underground rhizome. Ginger has been valued for thousands of years for its medicinal and culinary properties, especially in ancient Chinese, Indian, and Greek civilizations. It is one of the most versatile ingredients known today. It can be enjoyed fresh or dried, steeped as a tea, or grated into a delicious smoothie. The dried root is the source for tinctures, supplements, and can be transformed into ginger oil, an energizing and uplifting oil with a wide range of uses. The oil has a thin consistency with a strong, pleasant scent. 

Ginger is valued for its use in alleviating various health problems, such as stomach and bowel problems, respiratory issues, heart ailments, hypertensions, and chronic disease prevention. When used topically, ginger oil can help relieve aches and pain, as well as promote normal blood circulation. In aromatherapy, ginger oil is favored for its soothing, warming qualities which aid in digestive problems. 

• Apply two to three drops in a diffuser, or place on a cotton ball or your handkerchief, and then inhale. This will help reenergize and revitalize your body, mind, and soul.
• Mix two to three drops in an ounce of carrier oil, and use as a massage oil to relieve backaches, arthritis, muscle pain, rheumatism, and fractures, as well as stimulate your circulatory system and even revitalize your libido.
• You can also add it to your hot bath or put a few drops on a hot or cold compress, and then apply it to the affected areas.
• Inhale via a diffuser or vaporizer to relieve sinusitis, sore throat, and runny nose. It can also work as a decongestant.
• Massage a drop into your abdomen to relieve gas and diarrhea. 

You can purchase ginger oil here, or you can make your own! 

Procedure:

1. Rinse a cup of fresh ginger, including the skin, thoroughly, and let dry for a few hours.

2. Pour the olive oil in an oven-safe bowl.

3. Chop the ginger and then shred using a clean cheese grater. Add to the olive oil and mix well.

4. Put the mixture in the oven and leave it to simmer under low heat (150 degrees Fahrenheit) for at least two hours.

5. Pour the mixture through an unbleached cheese cloth to filter it and take out the bits of ginger. Once all the oil has been filtered, squeeze out the remaining oil from the cheese cloth.

6. Transfer the ginger oil into clean vials or bottles and store in a cool dry place for up to six months

Disclaimer:  If you have allergies to essential oil please do not try this activity.