Wow… you won’t believe it but I took 4 tries before I managed to get this recipe right. But thanks to all the tries, I also discovered how to make Ning Xia Red Jelly!🙂 AHAHAH which N simply adores to eat! She doesn’t like to drink NXR that much so I was really surprised when she offered to eat up ALL the failed gummies (they were actually NXR jellies! hahah)
Anyhow, I finally did get it right, and its really yummy! 😍 It makes a good snack and N asked me earlier if she could eat 10! Of course I said no… haha but its much better to eat this than any other gummy out there in the market! 💪🏻
So here’s the recipe:
Ning Xia Red Gummies
INGREDIENTS
- 0.5 cup Ningxia Red
- 0.5 cup Orange Juice or Apple Juice
- 4 tablespoons of Gelatin Powder
- 4 drops of Orange Essential Oil
- 3 tablespoons of Honey
INSTRUCTIONS
- In a saucepan over medium heat, combine Ningxia Red and apple juice together.
- Add in the gelatin power and whisk everything together until completely melted.
- Add in the honey and whisk again until well combined.
- Remove from the heat, allowing it to cool down, then add in some orange essential oil.
- Pour the warm mixture into silicon molds and refrigerate for about an hour till hard.
Note: If your gummy is not hard enough, simply add another tablespoon of gelatin powder to your next try.
Here’s sharing some awesome facts abt the NXR drink. It’s really not JUST a NingXia drink. It is a POWERFUL antioxidant drink. Everyone should really try it!
If you are interested in trying out the Young Living oils or Ningxia Red, do drop me an email at kaye@onedrop.sg or sign up to buy the products here.
ESSENTIAL OILS FOR INTIMACY
Which Essential Oils to Enhance Sexual Intimacy?
This post is contributed by One Drop member – Connie Chua
Sex is a beautiful gift that God has given to a couple under a marriage covenant and I believe it is not only sacred, it can be the most intimate and exhilarating moment that a couple can ever experience! However, having grown up in a conservative Asian culture where sex is hardly ever brought up for discussion, I sincerely feel that we should not feel embarrassed to talk about the sexual issues we face. How I wish that more people had been more open about it so my hubby and I would not have fumbled through most part of our married life!
Nevertheless, it is never too late! Ever since I started using Young Living Essential Oils, I’ve been trying different oils for different purposes. Yes, I started to use them to first help support immunity level of my 4 children. Then when my hubby became more used to the different scents and got into being used as a “guinea pig” whenever I need to practise the massage techniques that I have learnt, I began to explore more oils and supplements that support our overall well-being as well.
With an improved health and vitality after adding essential oils and supplements from Young Living into our daily regime, I can’t help but notice that our activities between the sheets get more and more pleasurable and exciting, too! Haha, talk about discovering such great side effects of using essential oils! I became more intrigued and went to research more. So, what are the essential oils that I have been using? What about the supplements that I have mentioned earlier? Let me show you which oils I am using for myself first followed by the oils I apply on him before I touch on the supplements (pun not intended).
Firstly, Progessence Phyto Plus, or PPP for short, is highly recommended! It not only has made regular monthly visits by Aunt Flo a painless issue, my PMS seems to have subdued significantly. Even the usual tenderness on my breasts a few days before the period somehow became unnoticeable that I only realized its absence after sometime! Hence, hubby gets fewer rejections than before. (Hint: what a great gift for your wife! :D)
PPP is a serum made using a special blend of frankincense, peppermint and bergamot essential oils and progesterone from wild yam plus vitamin E. Simply apply one to two drops onto the inner arms and ankles twice a day. You can read more here.
Secondly, diffusing Joy sets me in the right mood for love and cuddles! It’s a blend of Geranium, Ylang Ylang, Jasmine and Rose essential oils! How not to feel feminine and attractive? In Indonesia, petals of Ylang Ylang flowers are scattered on the bed of newly weds. This blend helps to increase libido and balance out the crazy hormones making me feel more calm and in control.
Thirdly, I like to put on either Transformation or Believe blend onto my diffuser necklace and declare over myself that I am attractive; I am blessed so I can bless others; I am beautiful because I am fearfully and wonderfully made by my Papa God; I have gifts that made me unique; etc. These declarations are powerful and the scent added simply evoke powerful stimulus into my limbic system! I believe this act of applying the oils and verbal declarations has been helping me to act upon the beliefs that I have over myself. With such confidence being built upon myself, I find myself to be in a position to give love rather than waiting to be loved. It also helps me to discard any sexual inhibition that I had previously. So BOOMZ! Our lovemaking has been so transformed!
One last oil that I highly recommend is Shutran! Oh my, the scent of this powerful blend drives my adrenaline really high and gets me all excited for the pleasures thinking about that big O! It’s certainly worth investing as a drop behind my earlobes and his is sufficient to get into the grooves!
Next are the oils for my hubby. He, being an active jogger, has complaints of muscles aches and pains. Long usage in front of a computer also has caused him much stiffness on his neck and shoulders. Well, most probably due to bad posture. So, I applied essential oils like Idaho Blue Spruce and Cypress with v6 oil or Ortho Sports oil and massaged onto his aching muscles. Little did I know that these two added extra boost to his testosterone level and better blood circulation to you-know-where!
Another oil that I have been religiously applying on his outer ankles is Mister after I read that it is good for his prostate health. This is certainly a must as I believe that prevention is better than cure! This blend was originally formulated to support healthy prostate function and balance male energy. Apparently, this has increased his libido gas tank and helped his soldier to stay firm longer!
What about the supplements? Yes, supplements are also critical as wanting to achieve orgasm requires an extra bit of physical energy besides being healthy. Hence, drinking Ningxia Red and taking Sulfurzyme regularly is a must for me. Hubby took a while to jump in the bandwagon, but has found himself with more energy even after midnight! He used to be totally drained off by 9pm. What a drastic change!
We have been married close to 22 years and I can honestly say that our sex life has never been as satisfying as it is now. It is not so much an age issue but rather an overall health and wellness issue plus a greater level of trust and intimacy built over the years. Let me end off by sharing some oily potions that have added some “omph” in achieving that big O.
*Inner Thigh Potion for Her
20 drops of Joy
15 drops of Lime
10 drops of Cypress
25 drops of carrier oil
*Inner Thigh Potion for Him
20 drops of Idaho Blue Spruce
10 drops of Cypress
5 drops of Rosemay
5 drops of Nutmeg
25 drops of carrier oil
Put each potion into an empty 15ml roller bottle and massage over each other’s thighs and all the way up to the leg crease. Have a sensational rolling good time
*The potions are taken from the book, Lucy Libido.
DIY SUNSCREEN
This post is contributed by One Drop member – Yvonne Zee
OUR RESEARCH
Why I avoid commercial sunscreen is to stop exposing my skin to toxic chemicals used in sunscreens, several of which are endocrine system disruptors, increase the risk of cancer, and more. Remember, our skin is our largest organ, and what we put on it gets absorbed into our body.
Unfortunately, many of the oils that we have only block UVB rays and not UVA; Except for Red raspberry seed oil, many research has found this oil to have both UVA and UVB qualities. So at the end of 2013 , I made my first batch of face sunscreens with some basic essential and carrier oils (which is a very important component of the formula) and gave them as Christmas presents to my Oily pals. They were very well received because many felt their skin improved !
So in early 2014 , I decided to do more more research and came up with what I hope as improved versions of sunscreens for the face , body and children. But do remember, these are at best screens and not sunblocks because there were no lab experiments to come up with the formula and definitely no chemicals to totally ‘block’ off the sun rays. We have used the trial and error method to have come up with our suggestion. You may need to adjust the quantity/combination to suit your own skin type better! Also the quality of the essential oils ( we only use Young Living oils ) as well as that of the carrier oils are equally important .
Tips
- Reapply every 2 hours if exposed to high sun or after Swimming
- Do not bathe before going outside for an extended period of time .
What we are doing to our skin by washing off natural oils is causing it to be more susceptible to the sun’s rays . We are leaving our largest organ with no protective barrier . Human sebum has a natural SPF of 6 – 8 . Why would you want to wash that off ?
- Also try not to bathe immediately after coming in from a day in the sun.
Your body needs time to finish processing the Vitamin D and UVA/UVB rays. Try to wait at least an hour before showering .
- And some studies have shown some foods like fermented Cod Liver Oil ( high in Omega-3 acids ) can help reduce the excess inflammation induced by UV tissue damage , hence reducing sun damage .
UVA + UVB : the long and short of it
- The sunlight that reaches us is made up of two types of harmful rays: long wave ultraviolet A (UVA) and short wave ultraviolet B (UVB). Basically, UVA rays can age us and UVB rays can burn us. Overexposure to either can damage the skin. There’s also a third type of ray, UVC – these are the shortest and strongest, but thankfully they’re absorbed by the ozone layer and don’t typically reach the Earth.
- UVA rays are constantly present, no matter the season or the weather. If you think you can’t get sun damage on a cloudy day, tell that to the UVA rays. They are so powerful that they also penetrate some clothing and even glass. (When was the last time you applied sunscreen before getting behind the wheel?)
UVA rays penetrate deep into the dermis, the skin’s thickest layer. Unprotected exposure can lead to premature skin aging and suppression of the immune system. And when your skin’s defenses are down, you’re at risk for skin cancer.
- UVB rays are the rays you can blame when you get a sunburn. Unlike UVA rays, these rays aren’t always the same strength year round – They’re more prevalent in the summer months, however they are able to reflect off of water or snow, so it’s always important to protect yourself year-round.
UVB rays will usually burn the superficial layers of your skin. The intensity of UBV rays vary by season, location and time of day, with 10am to 4pm being the peak hours. Sunburned skin doesn’t just feel awful, it can cause permanent damage over time.
Thus, my reasons for using the oils in the various sunscreens blends are…
(Note the different oils used for the face or for children’s more sensitive skin)
Essential Oils:
- Carrot Seed Oil
One of the highest UVB protection 35 to 40 SPF plus good for oil control on face. Has significant antioxidant, antiseptic, antifungal and fragrant properties with high levels of vitamin A. When applied topically to the skin diluted with a carrier oil, carrot seed oil also provides one of the highest UVB . - Lavender
Low level SPF 6 but highly anti-inflammatory and good for skin repair - Helichrysum
Has been selected for its ability to effectively filter out some of the sun’s rays. Helps with many skin conditions - Myrrh
The ancient Egyptians protected themselves from the powerful desert sun by generously applying this essential oil to their skin; and myrrh was the secret that kept their skin so lovely - Sandalwood
Heals our skin, scars and wrinkles; improves the youthfulness of our skin - German Chamomile
Soothing, powerful antioxidant (inhibits lipid peroxidation) and anti-inflammatory. - Geranium
Helps with many skin conditions, anti-inflammatory and controls oily skin and revitalizes our skin cells.
Carrier Oils:
- Red Raspberry Seed Oil
Contain exceptionally high levels of alpha and gamma tocopherols (vit. E), vit. A and omega 3 and omega 6 fatty acids. This provides the skin with significant broad spectrum protection from damaging UVA and UVB rays. SPF 28 to 50.
Its high level of Vitamin E is known to be give it an important role in skin repair and conditioning. It is known especially for its prevention of gingivitis, rashes, eczema and other skin lesions. Raspberry seed oil is emollient, lubricating, conditioning, creates a lipid barrier providing protection to the skin and provides moisture retention for the skin.
It has superior anti-inflammatory properties and works well on rashes, eczema and other skin lesions. It has a long shelf life because of its high phospholipids content, and may increase the stability of other carrier oils when blended with them. - Cranberry Seed Oil
Light in texture, quickly absorbed.
Cranberry seed oil is the only available carrier oil with a natural ratio of omega 6 (linoleic), omega 3 (alpha-linolenic) and omega 9 (oleic) fatty acids. Cranberry seed oil aids in the absorption and utilization of the essential fatty acids in the skin, and is said to moisturize the skin as no other oil can.
Cranberry seed oil contributes to the lipid barrier protection of the skin and assists in moisture retention.
Cranberry seed oil is a wonderfully moisturizing addition to any formula for cream or lotion for rough, dry, or mature skin. Some sources say it aids in the relief of scaly, itching skin conditions, and may be helpful for both eczema and psoriasis.
A producer has seen evidence that cranberry seed oil is an effective barrier of UV rays, thus helping to protect the skin against sun damage. They are now in process of testing to find proof of this claim. - Coconut Oil
Coconut oil (cold pressed) has an amazing ability to heal the skin and block the damaging effects of UV radiation from the sun. One of the reasons why it is so effective in protecting the skin is its antioxidant properties, which helps prevent burning and oxidative damage that promotes skin cancer. There have been several recent studies done on the use of coconut oil as a sunscreen but there are fluctuations in the SPF rating of coconut oil. One study “proved” a rating of only 4 while another rated coconut oil at a 10. - Wheatgerm Oil
Wheatgerm is one of the best sources of natural vitamin E and is also a good source of vitamin K, B vitamins and choline. When applied to the skin, wheatgerm oil helps to moisturize tissues and acts as an antioxidant to prevent free radical damage. Wheatgerm oil has a natural SPF rating of 20.
Note :- Use at a proportion of maximum 5% to 10% of wheatgerm oil in a blend; also a preservative in other carrier mixtures + prevent deterioration. - White Camellia Oil
White camellia oil was traditionally used by Geishas to keep their skin flawless and their hair lustrous and healthy. This camellia oil is a precious cold-pressed certified organic oil containing exceptionally high levels of antioxidants to prevent free radical formation; soothing properties to help calm sensitive skin; nutrients to nourish devitalized skin; and emollients to create a healthy dew-like complexion. White camellia oils is also one of the rare ingredients that is wonderful for all skin types, including mature, ultra sensitive, oily, combination and acne prone. - Grapeseed Oil
This oil is said to be rich in oligometric proanthrocyanidins or OPC. These are like the sesame seed oil components which hunt down free radicals that cause aging, with the purpose of eliminating them from the body system, Studies show that the OPC in grapeseed is twenty times more effective than vitamin C in eradicating free radicals in its function as an antioxidant. The antioxidating capabilities also promote the self-repair process of cells, which is important when the skin becomes affected by the sun’s UV rays. The SPF rating for this oil as a sunscreen ingredient is 4.
Yvonne is a member of OneDrop. She supports oil users via her facebook page – Your Daily Rebirth. If you like Yvonne’s articles and would like to purchase the Young Living oils, please feel free to get in touch with Yvonne or sign up directly here.
HOW I USE OILS WITH ART
This post is contributed by One Drop Member – Wendy Wong.
Many of us have different ways of releasing stress and expressing how we feel. Some exercise, others meditate. I use a combination of essential oils and art.
How do I do it?
My way of releasing stress and finding answers when I feel stuck is through drawing my way out. Literally.
By 1st using essential oils to activate my sense of smell, to have me in touch with how I am feeling at that point in time, and then I draw.
Through this process, I am able to express what has been internalised; when no words could describe. It has also provided me with the peace and serenity after each drawing and this process has helped me along the way whenever I needed to find answers to what I am seeking.
You may wonder how I combine these 2 modalities. I usually use one or a few oils.
Some of the oils I have used are: Stressaway, Present Time, Harmony and Forgiveness. Or sometimes I just reach into my oil bag and allow my hand to choose.
I inhale each of the scents, allowing my body to take in the benefits of each of the oils; breathing in deeply.
Then, whatever images, colours or shapes that comes to mind, I draw them out using my art materials.
After I complete my drawing/s, I give myself some time to make sense of it. This may be a few minutes of studying the drawing, or even setting the drawing aside for a few hours or days to reflect on it later. The key is to enjoy the artwork and the process of self-discovery.
Interestingly, for me, the words come easier after I draw, allowing me then to explore and express what emotions I am feeling at that point in time.
For any of you keen to try this process, you may start with your favourite singles or blends. Inhale your oils deeply. Allow your body to experience any images, visuals or emotions that you may feel.
Then you can express them using papers and colours. Oil pastels are a good choice to start with as you can play with each texture of the colours. Colour pencils, markers, water colour, etc are media you can use as well.
Most importantly, be gentle with yourself in the process and have fun!
For more info, please email Wendy at drawingwithinyou@gmail.com or visit her website at drawingwithinyou.com. Wendy is a member of OneDrop. If you like Wendy’s articles and would like to purchase the Young Living oils, please feel free to get in touch with Wendy or sign up directly here.
Solid Perfume
This post is contributed by One Drop Business Manager – Kaye Ng.
Commercial perfumes often give me a headache. Trust me, I have TONS. I have bought countless bottles of perfume only to spray them on, get into the car and get a massive headache AND a sneezing attack . It gets better the moment I get out of the car tho. BUT, its not because I sprayed half a bottle. I SWEAR – 3-5 spritz that’s all. Perhaps I’m just really sensitive to these scents.
Anyhow, so I decided to create my own solid perfume scents. These are like – balms with scents. So you just apply them as you go along and you can layer it as much as you want depending on how heavy you want the smell to be.
THE RECIPE:
- 3 Tbsp of Grapeseed Oil (or any carrier oil)
- 1 Tbsp of Jojoba Oil
- 1 Tbsp of Beeswax
- 20 Drops of Essential Oil
Directions:
- In a double boiler, melt the beeswax and the carrier oils together.
- Once melted, remove from heat and add essential oils, stirring well until combined.
- While HOT, pour your mixture into the container for your perfume.
Notes:
- Use a glass beaker with a lip to pour the melted solution into the containers or it will flow EVERYWHERE as the mixtures is thick.
- Work fast! Beeswax hardens very quickly and you might find yourself with a POT of harden beeswax which you cannot pour.
- Be careful of the type of scents you use. Some scents will not be strong esp as you pour them into a hot solution – effectively “cooking” the oils. However, the scent will get stronger after some time so don’t fret too much.
Here are some notes from this website on scents and how to create your own scent:
The Top Notes
Also sometimes referred to as the opening notes or head notes, the top notes of a fragrance are generally the lightest of all the notes. They are recognized immediately upon application of the perfume. The top notes are also the first to fade given their light molecular structure, but this does not mean they aren’t of utmost importance.
The top notes of a fragrance represent the first impression. How many times have you tested a fragrance only to be turned off right away? Why? Because the top notes didn’t make a lasting impression on you. It is hugely important that the top notes not only succeed at luring you in, but also smoothly transition into the heart of the fragrance.
Common fragrance top notes include citrus scents such as lemon, orange, bergamot, light fruits such as grapefruit and herbs like clary sage and lavender.
The Middle Notes
The middle notes, or the heart notes, make an appearance once the top notes evaporate. The middle notes are considered the heart of the fragrance. They last longer than the top notes and have a strong influence on the base notes to come. A perfume’s heart is generally pleasant and well-rounded. It is often a smooth combination of floral or fruit tones; sometimes infused with spices like cinnamon, nutmeg or cardamom.
Common fragrance middle notes include geranium, rose, lemongrass, ylang ylang, lavender, coriander, nutmeg, neroli and jasmine.
The Base Notes
The base notes are the final fragrance notes that appear once the top notes are completely evaporated. The base notes mingle with the heart notes to create the full body of the fragrance, but are typically associated with the dry-down period. The job of the base notes is to provide the lasting impression. These often rich notes linger on the skin for hours after the top notes have dissipated.
Common fragrance base notes include cedarwood, sandalwood, patchouli etc.
Without the combination of the three levels of notes, a fragrance just wouldn’t be aromatically appealing. But together, they create beautiful scents.
So go try and make your own scent. If all else fails, just use a beautiful scent already created from Young Living like Joy!
If you are interested in trying out the Young Living oils, or would like to find out more do drop me an email at kaye@onedrop.sg or sign up here to buy the products.
