shea butter – Earth to Kathy

April 9, 2018

Sunscreen

Some plants have skin protective qualities against the sun’s UV rays. Typical store bought sunscreens contain harsh chemicals: look for safer ingredients like zinc oxide. Avoid tanning, and wear clothing to cover the skin. Carrier oils such as coconut oil, sesame oil, carrot seed oil, and jojoba oil may offer […]

September 20, 2018

Benefits of Using Carrier Oils with Essential Oils

Essential oils should always be diluted in carrier oils, alcohol, or vinegar with topical use. These highly volatile plant extractions have been proven more effective with less harmful side effects when diluted. Experts agree, using essential oils neat can result in painful skin irritations, or worse! Professional aromatherapy organizations and […]

September 20, 2018

Ginger Juniper Rubefacient Rub Recipe

A rubefacient helps get the blood flowing, and warms the tissue. It includes herbs like ginger, juniper, pine, clove, and rosemary. This Ginger Juniper Rubefacient Rub Recipe is especially good for tired and aching legs and feet. Personally, I have applied this recipe on my calves with friction for about […]

November 8, 2019

What is the Difference Between a Seed and a Nut

This article originally appeared in the NAHA Journal (Fall 2019) and it is republished here according to the NAHA Writer Guidelines 2019-20 copyright statement. By Kathy Sadowski, MS in Aromatherapy, RA, LMT Answering the question “What is the difference between a seed and a nut?” can become quite complex. This […]