Staying Healthy

It's flu season once again. Three illnesses are hitting areas hard: Flu, Stomach bug, and contagious sinus infection.  I am doing my best to avoid all 3 illnesses despite my family being sick and dropping like flies. Below are my go to items to stay healthy!

• Thyme is considered a natural expectorant and high in antioxidants. It has a strong bitter taste. I fill my Ekobrew with at least one heaping teaspoon in my Keurig. You also can use an empty tea bag or strainer. I add a green tea bag, honey and some lemon. http://www.ehow.com/list_6184565_health-benefits-thyme-tea_.html

• Green tea is also high in antioxidants. Flavonoids expel free radicals. It has shown to be beneficial for inflamed skin too. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Green_tea

• Thieves oil blend-Clove, Lemon, Eucalyptus, Cinnamon and Rosemary essential oils. Great blend of anti-viral and anti-bacterial properties. http://pinterest.com/pin/183943966002270020/ 

• Homemade vapor rub- Apply to your feet at bedtime and wear white cotton socks. http://pinterest.com/pin/183943966001255470/

• Vapor Disc.  Place on the floor of your tub while you shower. http://pinterest.com/pin/183943966001255461/

• Pine Bros. Softish throat drops. Slow melting drops that coat your sore throat.  Be sure to check out my review and giveaway. http://www.pinebrothers.com/

• Sinus Buster The active ingredient Capsaicin, the common ingredient in Buster Brands products, is a highly researched botanical extract. Derived from cayenne pepper, capsaicin has a long history of use as a natural therapeutic agent for a variety of ailments. This product is NOT for everyone. This will sting. http://www.busterbrands.com/proven-relief/

• Lots and lots of water!!!!!!!!

Thieves Oil Recipe 

• 200 drops of Clove Oil (Syzgium aromaticum)
• 175 drops of Lemon Oil (Citrus Limon)
• 100 drops of Cinnamon Bark (Cinnamomum verum)
• 75 drops of Eucalyptus Oil (Eucalyptus radiata)
• 50 drops of Rosemary Oil (Rosmarinus officinalis)

-Add two drops to a pan of hot water and simmer. Use a pan that you won't use for food.
-Fill a spritz bottle with witch hazel and two drops of the Thieves mixture. Spray your         bedding and rooms.
-Add a few drops to a carrier oil (see pin above) and apply to your chest and feet.

-Add a few drops to your favorite homemade cleaner.

Quick Vapor Rub

• 2 tsp beeswax (grated)
• 1/4 c. extra virgin olive oil (any carrier oil)
• 25-35 drops peppermint essential oil
• 15 drops eucalyptus essential oil
• 10-15 drops rosemary essential oil

Apply to chest and feet. Wash your hands after applying. Peppermint oil will burn your eyes.

DIY Vapor Disc
-Items you will need for Sarah's recipe:

• -Baking soda
• -Water 
• -Essential oils: eucalyptus, rosemary, and lavender. 
• -Muffin tin

You will need more baking soda than you think. They will sink when they harden. Take your time mixing the water and baking soda. I placed mine a freezer zip bag. Mine came out 1/3 the tin size so I placed them in the back of the shower. How long they last depends on how dense they are made and water flow in your shower.