bring on the sun

Did You Know...
In the U.S. there are no laws that govern the use of the term aromatherapy, so any manufacturer, even those that include synthetic ingredients & adulterate the product itself, can slap the word aromatherapy onto their product labels?

Message from Amber
Happy first day of Summer everyone! If you are local to me then you already know how high the temperatures are rising! Humidity + heat do not mix unless I am sitting at the beach under an umbrella! 
Aromatherapy classes are underway and as soon as I have a date I will be sending in a separate email. These classes will be offered in person and virtual. 
Birth Classes have been amazing thus far! I have been dwelling on the idea of expanding them to In-Home & Virtual options and I am here to say this will be an option starting this month! So if you know a mama that is interested send her my way!
I hope you find these newsletters helpful! As always, if you have a topic you'd like me to cover feel free to reach out! 
Enjoy the first day of summer! ☀️

What are Carrier Oils?
Carrier oils are made from plants (possible plant parts include nut, seed, or fruit). They're not volatile the way essential oils are. They tend to be heavier than essential oils and are very safe for the skin. Some essential oils can be irritating for the skin, so they're often blended with carrier oils for safety and comfort.
The term “carrier” also refers to any substance used to dilute essential oils. These commonly include cream or lotion, vegetable oils, butters, water, hydrosol, and aloe vera gel.


Coconut oil, or better known as Cocos nucifera, is the most common carrier in the aromatherapy industry. That's because it is an excellent carrier oil for itchy, sensitive skin, and is best used for the body than the face. It is resistant to rancidity. It can be moisturizing and serves as a protective layer, helping to retain the moisture in your skin. Coconut oil is mild and generally safe for people with inflamed, irritated and sensitive skin. It has a strong coconut aroma. 
Note: some people find coconut oil drying on their skin, others find it to be very soothing. Each person will respond to oils and butters differently depending on their unique skin.
Coconut Oil Shelf Life: Coconut oil is resistant to rancidity and has a two-year shelf life. It is a highly saturated fat. Virgin coconut oil is cold-pressed, pure and unrefined. Fractionated coconut oil is highly refined and often has no aroma.

In honor of Summer ☀️
 here is a great body butter blend for an after sun ease!
​
You will need a stand mixer or hand mixer to make this recipe.
(It will be easier with a stand mixer.)

You will need:
- 1/4 cup (2oz.) shea butter (Really good for sun-damaged skin and long-term health of skin.)
- 2 Tbsp of Aloe Vera Gel or Gelly (Nutrient dense + promotes skin heal faster from burns.)
- 1 Tbsp Vitamin E Oil (Helps with inflammation.)
- 1 Tbsp Rose Hip Oil (High in Vitamin C + E and when paired together can prevent sunburn from getting worse.)
- 15 drops Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia; skin rejuvenator)- 15 drops Helichrysum (Helichrysum italicum; skin rejuvenator)

Directions:·
· Place shea butter in mixer. Whip on high for 30 seconds. It will stick to the sides.
· Scrape from sides. Add Vitamin E oil and whip for 30 seconds.
· Scrape sides again and add Aloe Vera. Whip for 30 seconds.
· Repeat for both the rose hip oil and essential oils, adding them one at a time.
· The body butter should be creamy and easy to remove with a spatula.
· Store in a 2 oz mason jar with airtight lid.

Apply generously to sun burn or hot skin after sun exposure as needed. Store in a cool/dark place. For children - use sparingly!