DIY Essentials for the Changing Seasons

What are Virgin Plant Oil Macerates?

Nourishing & Soothing for Wellness Skincare A Virgin Plant Oil is derived from the first cold pressing of nuts, fruit, and oily seeds. Nourishing and soothing, they provide a wide range of benefits for wellness and skincare. However, there are many plants that cannot produce oil from pressing. In this case, we have what are called macerates. What Is a Macerate? Macerates are obtained by a method that has been around for hundreds of years. First, a plant is chosen for its active properties, such as Calendula or St. John’s Wort. The parts of the plant chosen (flowers, seeds, etc.) are left to macerate in a “base” virgin oil, such as olive oil. This maceration often lasts several weeks. After that, the preparation is filtered, resulting in a virgin oil enriched with the main active ingredients of the plant. You can use these oil macerates like any Virgin Plant Oil. Currently Pranarom has four macerates: ARNICA – Traditionally used for healing in herbal medicine, Arnica oil is widely known to soothe bumps, bruises, discomfort in joints and occasional muscle strains. Arnica is an ideal carrier for essential oils such as Helichrysum, Peppermint, Rosemary and Lavender. CALENDULA – Calendula is an ally of babies and their sensitive skin and is often used as a moisturizer for infants. Safe and easy to use, Calendula oil can be applied on its own, or combined with other soothing essential oils such as Lavender or German Chamomile. CARROT – This easily absorbed, brilliant orange oil brings a healthy glow to your skin. Due to its antioxidant action, Carrot oil promotes skin tone and elasticity, especially in the throat and neck area. Carrot oil derives the majority of its properties from beta-carotene, which gives this infusion its beautiful color. ST. JOHN’S WORT – Used as a remedy since the Middle Ages, St. John’s Wort is a true herbal bandage! This oil supports cutaneous and cellular regeneration and is suitable for sensitive skin. It nourishes and calms occasional redness or irritation, leaving it soft and smooth. Although ideal for minor injuries, St. John’s Wort oil is photosensitizing. Apply it in the evening before going to bed and do not expose treated skin to the sun for 24 hours after use. Keep in mind that Virgin Plant Oils and Macerates blend beautifully with pure essential oils. For general skincare and cosmetic use, follow a 1-3% essential oil dilution ratio or 9-27 drops of essential oil to 1 oz. of organic plant oil. Visit our website for specific oil guidance.

Warming Spices DIY Roundup

Cozy Recipes for the Cooler Months Fall is that wonderful transition season when we begin to slow down after the busyness of summer and start enjoying a little more time indoors. We especially love when the trees change their colors into a beautiful tapestry of reds, greens and yellows. The season calls for warming spices such as cardamom, cinnamon, ginger, black pepper and clove. These spices were the inspiration for our fall DIY roundup. We have some great recipes that are perfect for the home and great for holiday gift giving. Fall Leaves Room Spray 3 Drops of Pranarom Cardamom Essential Oil 3 Drops of Pranarom Cinnamon Bark Essential Oil 1 Drop of Pranarom Clove Essential Oil 1 Drop of Pranarom Ginger Essential Oil 3 Drops of Pranarom Orange Essential Oil 2 T. Witch Hazel 2 T. Distilled Water 2 oz. Amber Spray Bottle Directions:Mix witch hazel and water together in a glass pourable container. Add essential oils and mix until well incorporated. Pour into spray bottle. Give your room a couple sprays and enjoy the aroma! Spiced Chai Diffusion Blend 3 Drops Pranarom Cardamom Essential Oil 2 Drops Pranarom Cinnamon Bark Essential Oil 2 Drops Pranarom Clove Essential Oil 2 Drops Pranarom Ginger Essential Oil 1 Drop Pranarom Black Pepper Essential Oil Directions: Add oils to your ultrasonic diffuser with water. Cozy Massage Oil 6 Drops Pranarom Cardamom Essential Oil 6 Drops Pranarom Orange Essential Oil 8 Drops Pranarom Ginger Essential Oil 2 Drops Pranarom Black Pepper Essential Oil Jojoba Oil or your favorite carrier oil 1 oz. Pump Bottle Directions: Add essential oils to bottle. Top with Jojoba oil. Add a couple pumps to hand and massage on sore muscles. Fall Harvest Potpourri 3 Drops of Pranarom Cardamom Essential Oil 3 Drops of Pranarom Cinnamon Bark Essential Oil 1 Drop of Pranarom Clove Essential Oil 1 Drop of Pranarom Ginger Essential Oil 3 Drops of Pranarom Orange Essential Oil 2 Cups mixture of the following: Cinnamon Sticks, Pinecones, Dried Fruit Slices (Apples, Oranges, Lemons) or Dried Citrus Peels, Whole Cloves, Dried Cardamom Pods, Star Anise Directions: Add dried material to a large glass bowl. Toss gently to mix. Add essential oils to bowl and toss to incorporate. Add to your favorite decorative bowl and enjoy. Add more essential oils as necessary to maintain desired aroma.