Written by Karen Heileson, Suzanne’s sister:
My experience with oils has been extremely personal. They have helped me to feel more emotionally stable. I really started using them for the emotional benefits, but as I am learning more, it is fun to use them for medicinal purposes as well.
A bit about my story, I suffered pretty severely from post-partum depression and anxiety. It was last year that I went on anti-depressants. They were fine. They worked to some degree. What I did not like about them was that they seemed to mute ALL emotions, not just the bad ones. It was hard to get really excited about the holidays or birthdays, or other things that I normally was excited about. I also didn’t love the side effects from taking something synthetic on a regular basis let alone taking them while I was nursing. Don’t misunderstand me, I believe in western medicine and my family uses it when needed, but I just was not satisfied that this was what was best for my body, by baby, and my particular situation.
Several months after I went on anti-depressants, I was introduced to using essential oils for emotional support. I had been gifted a bottle of an essential oil blend called “Balance” a few years prior, but had never used it. I started regularly using this oil and a few others that were gifted to me. Every morning as soon as I woke, then often throughout the day I would apply it. If I were feeling low, I would use another blend called “Citrus Bliss” which lifted my mood. If I were feeling anxious, I would use “Balance.” Anyway, within 3 days I noticed a real change in the stability of my moods. After a week and a half, I was able to stop taking the anti-depressents. I still use the oils regularly on myself as well as my children. Sometimes I even force them on my husband. 🙂
As I have learned more, I have incorporated other oils into my life as well as a daily supplement. I really feel like I am becoming a better version of myself and what my Heavenly Father intended for me. I still have challenging days, but using oils has made those days much easier for me and my family.
Some really important information about essential oils:
Because of the unique chemical constituents and the fact that they are carbon based, essential oils are able to permeate the protective blood-brain barrier and provide support for such things as headaches, migraines, vertigo or other balance issues, emotions, and mood. Certain essential oils that are comprised of specific chemical constituents like sesquiterpenes, such as frankincense and sandalwood, have a particular affinity for supporting the brain.
Unfortunately though, not all oils are created equal. When using an essential oil, use of pure therapeutic grade oils is extremely important. Unfortunately, some oil companies adulterate oils, adding synthetic compounds, or even not processing the oil properly, degrading the purity. Look at all of the following areas to make sure the oil you are using is a quality product and safe for you to use on your body.
Authentic – oil is not a mixture of plant species, or weeds growing alongside the plant. Oil is comprised of and distilled from only the plant parts clearly identified.
Genuine – “unadulterated” oil is 100% natural and contains no addition of any other substances – even other natural substances. 100% pure and 100% complete (fully distilled)
Potent – Climate and soil composition affect the potency of plant matter. This is why sourcing an oil from its native habitat is essential.
Pure – No unlabeled plant sources, other species, or synthetic compounds.
I love using doTERRA and completely trust their oils because they have such high standards and they are transparent in their methods. They put every batch of oils through multiple testing to determine their quality. I know that when I open a new bottle of oil, it will be exactly the same as the old bottle and I can expect the same results.
If you are interested in learning more about how essential oils can support you, I would be happy to answer any questions and teach you what I have learned and know to be true about them. Do not hesitate to send us a direct message with any questions you may have.
Aloha,
Karen Heileson