For many people, making healthy recipes and food prepping seems too difficult and time consuming…
But with some advance planning and some basic knowledge of nutrition, it is easy to create a week’s worth of healthy meals that you and your family will love. The key to creating delicious and healthy meals for the family is planning …and lot’s of it!
Planning ahead of time an entire week of healthy recipe meals is the best way to create dishes you can be proud of, while keeping cost and time commitment to a minimum. So below are amazing tips you can use to make healthy meals all the time.
Healthy Recipe Tip #1:
Using convenient appliances such as slow cookers and microwaves can be a huge time saver when planning and preparing meals. There are many delicious and healthy recipes that can be started in the morning and left to cook all day in a crock pot or slow cooker. These are great choices for working and/or busy families.
In addition, making the meals ahead of time on the weekend and heating them in the microwave is a great way to stretch both your food and your time. There are many microwavable healthy meals you can make at home, and single serving microwave safe containers allow every member of the family to eat on their own schedule. Don’t own a microwave? No problem. Switch to oven safe containers and reheat using an oven.
When planning the meals for the week, it is a good idea to create a chart listing each day’s menu and each days’ schedule. Here’s a smart tip…plan the quickest and easiest to prepare meals for the busiest days of the week.
Healthy Recipe Tip #2:
Get your family involved in creating the week’s meal plan by asking for their input and noting everyone’s favorite foods. It is still very important to eat healthy meals, so that (of course) does not mean eating pizza every night or having ice cream for dinner. But involving your spouse and children in healthy recipe planning, you’ll help to increase their interest in healthy eating right away.
It is also a good idea to get your entire family involved in the preparation of the meals. Even children too young to cook can help out by setting out the dishes, chopping vegetables, clearing the table and washing the dishes. This is also a great way to learn math skills through measuring ingredients. Win-win.
Healthy Recipe Tip #3:
Cooking large quantities of healthy food recipes – and freezing the leftovers – is a easy way to save time. Cooking large amounts of stews, soups, pasta, chili and casseroles can be a huge time saver. Making double and even triple batches of these staple foods, and freezing the leftovers for later use, is a great way to save both time and money.
When freezing leftovers, however, it is important to label the containers carefully, using freezer tape and a permanent marker. Try to keep the oldest foods near the top to avoid having to throw away expired items.
Stocking up on meats when they are on sale is another great way to use that valuable freezer space. Stocking up on such easily frozen foods as chicken, turkey, ground beef, steaks, roasts and chops is a great way to make your food dollar stretch as far as possible while still allowing you and your family to enjoy delicious healthy meals every day.
Healthy Recipe Tip #4:
Keeping a well stocked pantry is as important as keeping a well stocked freezer. Stocking the pantry with a good supply of staple items like canned vegetables, canned fruits, soup stocks and the like will make healthy recipe preparation much faster and easier.
Stocking the pantry can save you money as well as time. Grocery stores are always running sales, and these sales are a great time to stock up. Buying several cases of canned vegetables when they are on sale, for instance can save lots of money and provide the basic ingredients for many nutritious, easy to prepare meals.
Examples of great staples to stock up on include whole grain cereals, pastas, tomato sauce, baked beans, canned salmon, tuna and whole grain breads. It is easy to combine these staples into many great meals on a moment’s notice.
Even good boys and girls make mistakes! When your four-legged friend misses the piddle-pad or the litter box, it’s no fun for anyone. Don’t dismay! With this DIY pet stain remover, you and your furry pals will be cuddling odor-free in no time.
2 cups baking soda (optional, for tough or already-dried stains)
Instructions:
If your doggo buddy very recently left a puddle on the living room carpet, use these instructions for removing fresh stains:
1. Add the essential oils to the salt and mix well. 2. In a spray bottle, combine the salt mixture, apple cider vinegar, and water. Mix thoroughly until salt has dissolved. 3. Blot the “accident” to remove excess moisture. 4. Shake the bottle, then spray the stained area generously until wet. 5. Let sit for 10–15 minutes. 6. Using an old towel or rag, soak up the mixture by blotting until moisture is removed. Do not apply heat to aid in the drying process, as it can cause unwanted odors and stains to set permanently.
When you find an older, smellier, set-in stain, use the instructions above to make the DIY pet odor eliminator and then:
1. Spray the area generously until wet. 2. Sprinkle baking soda over the stain and leave for 24 hours or until dry. The baking soda will absorb the stain during this time. Once dry, scoop up as much baking soda as possible and discard, then vacuum thoroughly to remove any remaining powder.
If youre looking to turn your garbage into gardeners gold and do it in a hurry, then you should try a compost tumbler. If you have a compost bin then you know how great it is to add compost to your flower beds and vegetable garden. But making compost takes time and its usually in short supply. A compost tumbler is a great time saver when making compost.
Some gardeners believe that compost is better than fertilizer because it doesnt just feed your plants, it also improves your soil. Improving your soil keeps your plants healthier so they grow stronger and more capable of fighting off diseases or beating droughts. Compost is decomposed organic matter and is high in nutrients that plants love. Bacteria and other micro organisms help break down that decomposing organic matter and their short life cycles become part of the process itself. When they reproduce their offspring continue the process while the parents bodies break down and add to the organic matter. Its natures way of recycling.
Creating compost will usually take a couple of months. If you get the ratio of browns to greens right, turn the pile to keep it aerated and dont let it dry out youll be rewarded with fresh earthy compost. The more you tend your compost pile, the quicker your garden waste will become compost. Neglect the pile and it will still become compost but itll take a lot longer. For an example of this examine the rich soil in a forest. As leaves and tree litter fall to the ground, there isnt anyone there making sure its the same wetness as a wrung out sponge. But by the time the next season rolls around, a lot of those leaves have begun decomposing and in the process, theyre feeding the trees and the cycle continues without any help from man.
The gardening season can be very short depending on where you live. In the Northeast we have about 4 months of time to grow the flowers, fruits and vegetables that we love. So unless you have a huge bin of compost ready to go on the first day of spring youll need some more during the growing season. A compost tumbler is perfect for making compost fast. Now you probably wont make enough compost to fill new beds but the amount you can make is perfect to give your plants and nice top dressing.
Or if you are a composter with a pest problem, the compost tumbler will keep the critters out of your pile. The most popular tumblers are sealed up and only have holes for air. If rodents or snakes have been problems for you in the past then the compost tumbler is the solution that youve been looking for.
Theres a few things youll need to do a little differently if youre used to bin composting. First off, youll need to add all the raw materials at once. Dont continue adding or else your compost will never be done. Add what you want and then start turning. Try to turn it everyday. If not everyday then at least a few times a week. The first few batches will take the longest unless you already have some compost that you can toss into the tumbler. Or you can use a compost activator. Thats all activators really are anyway. Just someones elses compost to help get your pile started. The bacteria and micro organisms have to get in there somehow.
Be sure not to over water when using a compost tumbler. Moisture doesnt escape as easily inside the tumbler as with a regular compost bin. And most likely your ingredients such as grass clippings or coffee grinds were already moist to begin with.
After about 3 weeks the compost should start to look like compost. It should be an even color and you shouldnt be able to tell what you put in the tumbler. If your waste is still recognizable then let it decompose a while longer. And dont forget to smell your compost. It should have a nice earthy smell to it.
If youre looking for a neat & compact composting solution that works quickly and wont receive a lot of attention from your neighbors, then look into a compost tumbler. You’ll be tumbling your way to a great garden this season.
PRO TIP: I have a small compost bin inside the house to put vegetable cuttings and scraps in. Once it’s full, I add it to the tumbler outside. It’s a great way to reduce waste and maximize your compost!
There’s a million and a half reasons to work out at home: global pandemics, budgets, little ones, time constraints. Or maybe you just prefer your makeshift gym and personal playlist! Even if you’re not a weekend warrior, you can still get into beast mode at home.
Tips for a successful at-home workout
Just because your gym session is under your own roof doesn’t mean you have to give up on gains! Here are some essential oils for your workout and some trade secrets on how to maximize your exercise.
Look forward to it
Instead of viewing your workouts as a chore, treat them like the opportunity of a lifetime. We’ve got these miraculous bodies—let’s get excited to move them! To turn your fitness regimen from to-do list to bucket list:
Find a podcast or TV show that you reserve for working out.
Diffuse a motivational diffuser blends during your reps.
Make it a habit! The more you do it, the more you’ll love it and hate to go without it.
Pencil it in
Designate 30 minutes to an hour that’s reserved for you and your health! Whether you start small with 1–2 days a week or go for the big time with daily reminders, make sure your calendar is set with notifications and alarms to get you going.
Rely on a support system
When that calendar ping isn’t motivation enough to throw on some leggings and start moving, have your friends and family jump in as cheerleaders. Gym buddies aren’t reserved for the gym. That’s why we call them fitness friends!
Find a pal you can text or call right before your workout starts.
Recruit someone in your household to join you! If adults aren’t available and the music is boppin’ enough, kids will love to run around with you.
Count on furry friends too! We promise—if your dog gets in the habit of a daily walk, he’ll never let you forget it!
Add pep to your step with pre-workout
At least 30 minutes before each workout, it is important to increase the amount of water you consume. Supplement this with your choice of NingXia Red® for added nutrition, NingXia Nitro™ and Slique™ Tea to increase alertness, and a clear capsule with 4-6 drops of Lemongrass essential oil to get ready for your workout. These products work together to help improve energy and endurance and increase thermogenics in the body.
Immediately following this preparation, it is important to warm up the body to prepare your muscles for the workout. If your muscles are sore, gently rub a few drops of Peppermint essential oil onto the affected area to help soothe the minor discomfort. As with any workout regimen, a healthy diet and proper technique will help you achieve your fitness goals.
Recommended Pre-Workout Products:
NingXia Red: NingXia Red’s cascading energy and nutrient-rich formula is a perfect way to prepare for any workout.
NingXia Nitro: NingXia Nitro is an all-natural way to enhance physical performance. Not only does it deliver a unique combination of B vitamins, essential oils, and green tea extract, but it also contains Bioenergy Riobose®, a premium ingredient clinically proven to increase energy, accelerate recovery, and reduce fatigue and muscle pain.
Slique Tea: By providing a rare blend of jade oolong leaves, ocotea, and frankincense powder, Slique Tea is a delicious beverage that provides a natural energy boost.
Slique Essence Essential Oil Blend: Young Living’s Slique Essence essential oil blend contains a unique combination of grapefruit, tangerine, lemon, spearmint, and ocotea essential oils that uplifts and energizes.
Lemongrass Essential Oil: Lemongrass essential oil contains high levels of citral, a compound that may support thermogenic activity in the body when consumed.
Peppermint Essential Oil: When ingested, Peppermint essential oil supports digestion and may improve concentration and mental acuity. When used topically, it soothes sore muscles.
Mix it up
If you find yourself bored to tears by the same arm and leg workout, try something new! What about yoga? Online videos? A new video instructor? HIIT? Functional fitness or any of the other dozens of trending workouts? Hey, maybe even those old 80s videos hidden in the basement could be fun. If all else fails to grab your attention, turn on some jams and dance around the kitchen!
Give yourself some space
If you can, create a designated area you work out in each day. No extra room? Make do with that you have!
Push furniture aside to make room for yoga mats or floor workouts.
Use a kitchen chair for tricep dips, lunges, or step ups.
Use backpacks with books in them to add resistance or weight.
Anything goes! A kid’s old jump rope is your new cardio. A gallon of milk is your new 8-pound weight. Your kitchen timer is your new interval trainer.
Keep it fresh
With your weekday workout out of the way, you deserve a pick-me-up! Enjoy a spritz of fresh water and a revitalizing scent on your neck, chest, and arms. In a glass spray bottle, combine:
PRO tip: Store the bottle in the fridge for water that is extra cool!
See how far you’ve come
When you hit the gym, you keep track of your PB (personal bests). Why not do the same at home? Every time you go an extra mile, do a few more reps with a heavier weight, or conquer that headstand, celebrate! Jot it down in your journal, share it on social media, call your mom. The important thing is to compete against yourself, not other people, and recognize every win!
End on the right note
If you do anything on this list, make it this one. The second you finish your at-home workout, it can be tempting to rush to the next thing. Treat your body right by recovering right!
Now that you are all warmed up with the pre-workout suggestions, it’s time to begin your workout! When working out it is important to remember three things: technique, hydration, and recovery.
Technique Proper technique and form help you avoid injury and maximize results. A vital part of proper technique is how you breathe. During aerobic exercises, get your breathing into a pattern; when training with weights, exhale when exerting.
Keep Breathe Again™ close by to help open nasal passages. Know your limitations and don’t overdo it. If you are new to this type of exercise, start out with a basic workout.
Hydration The importance of staying hydrated cannot be understated. Keeping your body properly hydrated helps flush out the toxins that are released when working out. Adding a few drops of Peppermint essential oil to your water keeps you alert during your workout.
Recovery Once you’ve finished your workout, be sure to cool down and stretch the worked muscle groups to avoid injury. Drinking Pure Protein Complete™ after a workout delivers much-needed, essential oil-infused amino acids to muscles that have been broken down and worked. Protein also helps build enzymes that help your body adapt to sports that require endurance, such as running or biking.
When your muscles are fatigued, the use of Deep Relief™ Roll-on and PanAway®is encouraged. These essential oil blends should be a must-have in your gym bag and work to help soothe sore and tight muscles. Apply these as desired when you feel discomfort.
Lastly, don’t forget to supplement. Finish off your workout with a 2-oz. shot of NingXia Red® along with Master Formula, an essential oil-infused multivitamin packed with nutrient-dense superfruits, plants, and vegetables that will deliver a full-spectrum of bioactive vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants to your body. Follow that up with a Slique Bar to minimize hunger cravings between meals and you have the endings of a perfect workout.
Finally, don’t forget your Thieves® Wipes to wipe down your equipment and to keep yourself and family safe from germs.
We hope this series has helped you discover the myriad ways to infuse your workouts with the benefits of Young Living products. Please visit the comments section and share other Young Living products you like to use when working out!
We are firmly in the camp that believes starting your morning off right doesn’t have to mean an extra early wake-up call or compromising flavor. That’s why we developed this recipe.
Using Pure Protein Complete™, refreshing Peppermint Vitality™, and a handful of spinach, this breakfast tastes like a dessert but packs a punch with ingredients you won’t feel guilty about.
Variations
Experiment with your smoothies by adding any combination of these essential oils:
If you want to make changes at the cellular level, you need to be consistent with health practices for a few months to give your body a chance to regenerate new healthy cells to actually FEEL a difference! Hence the 3-month plan!!!
Not yet a member? Pick out your Starter Kit … HERE!
If you are going to commit to changing your health over the next 3 months, commit to joining…
Young Living’s Essential Rewards.
Why??? SAVE MONEY and RECEIVE FREE PRODUCTS!
how does it work?
POINTS BACK
When you order on Essential Rewards you will get between 10-25% back in ER points to use to get free products.
FREE LOYALTY GIFTS
You will also get free gifts for being a loyal ER member at month 3, 6, 9, and 12 and once a year thereafter.
FREE PROMOTIONAL ITEMS
When you order 100 PV or 190 PV, in one single order, you will receive FREE promotional items that change every single month. It is a great way to try new products or stock up on favorites for FREE!
EXCLUSIVE DISCOUNTED ER KITS
Order kits like Thieves and NingXia Red at a discounted rate.
REQUIREMENT
A minimum order of 50 PV (Product Value) one time each month. Cancel at any time with no penalty or fee.
HOW TO JOIN
Log into your account and click on “ER Monthly Order” to get started.
Make sure you also set up your PV assistant (as a backup cart) so you never fall below your desired order amount!
month one
In order to make an EASY transition to a healthier lifestyle, you want to replace items in your home that are exposing you to toxins EVERY SINGLE DAY.
You cannot live a 100% toxin-free life. You are exposed to air pollution, contaminated groundwater, and even harmful chemicals in stores and office buildings, but YOU control the products you purchase and bring into your home. One of the easiest things we can do is ditch and switch the products that we use every single day.
Most generic personal care and home care products are filled with harmful chemicals that cause a lot of damage to your body. These products contain ingredients that are carcinogens, asthma instigators, endocrine disruptors, and poisons. #NoThanks
Let’s get all those things OUT of your home and bring in the GOOD products that have SAFE ingredients that actually allow you to live ABOVE the wellness line. The Young Living Thieves line is the perfect way to ditch the YUCK and switch to the GOOD.
month one order ideas
OPTION 1:
Thieves Essential Rewards Kit (save $38!)
Thieves Essential Oil Blend, 15 ml
Thieves AromaBright Toothpaste, 4 oz.
Thieves Household Cleaner, 14.4 oz., 2 bottles
Thieves Mouthwash, 8 oz.
Thieves Foaming Hand Soap, 8 oz., 2 bottles
Thieves Waterless Hand Purifier, 1 oz., 2 bottles
Thieves Spray, 1 oz., 2 bottles
OPTION 2:
Put together a custom Essential Rewards order with household favorites…
Thieves Laundry Soap $29.50 PV
Thieves AromaBright Toothpaste, 4 oz. – $10.50 PV
Thieves Household Cleaner, 14.4 oz. $22.50 PV
Thieves Mouthwash, 8 oz. $11.25 PV
Thieves Foaming Hand Soap, 8 oz. $13.25 PV
Thieves Waterless Hand Purifier, 1 oz. $5.00 PV
Thieves Spray, 1 oz. $9.25 PV
Thieves Dish Soap. $14.00 PV
Thieves Fruit & Veggie Spray $8.50 PV
—————————————————
Total: $123.75 – 123.75 PV
Both of these orders qualify you to receive the FREE promotional item for spending 100 PV, which gets automatically added to your cart upon ordering!
month two
In order to cleanse the body and get rid of all the junk you have exposed yourself to over the years, treat yourself to a cleansing system. Young Living has a lot of great options for this, but let’s take a closer look at one simple system, the Cleansing Trio.
The Cleansing Trio Kit contains three products you need to cleanse your system, eliminate waste, and support normal liver function. Augmented with herbs that are rich in vitamins, minerals, and essential oils, the Cleansing Trio promotes energy and a sense of well-being. This kit includes ComforTone, Essentialzyme, and ICP.
Young Living’s Cleansing Trio is designed to be used as a short-term cleansing system. You can use this system for four to eight weeks and then you should discontinue the use of ComforTone. Avoid any refined sugar or processed foods to take your cleanse to a higher level.
Cleansing Trio Kit Item #: 3115
essentialzyme
Essentialzyme™ helps CHOMP everything up. Enzymes are proteins that control the speed of chemical reactions in your body. Without enzymes, you wouldn’t be able to breathe, swallow, drink, eat, or digest your food. Therefore, it is important to make sure you are getting the proper enzymes to break down food and improve digestion in the cleansing process. Are you eating a lot of Kefir, Bananas, Soy Sauce, Pineapples, Avocados, Bee Pollen, Papayas, Sauerkraut, Miso, Kiwi, and Tempeh? If not, then you better take Essentialzyme!
Essentialzyme™ is a bilayer, peppermint-coated caplet that combines pure essential oils, herbs, and plant-derived enzymes formulated to improve digestive health, enzyme activity, and pancreatic function while reducing pancreatic stress.
USAGE
Essentialzyme is a product that can be taken long-term. Take 1 dual time-release caplet 1 hour before your largest meal of the day for best results.
NOTICE
If you are pregnant, nursing, taking medication, or have a medical condition, consult a health professional prior to use. Do not give this product to children under 6 years of age except under the supervision of a health professional. If discomfort persists, discontinue use of this product and consult a health professional.
comfortone
ComforTone aids in the elimination of waste products and gases in the colon. ComforTone capsules contain an effective combination of herbs and essential oils that support the health of the digestive system by eliminating residues from the colon and enhancing its natural ability to function optimally. It does this by supporting normal peristalsis which is what helps move everything through your bowels. It also promotes liver, gallbladder, and stomach health.
USAGE
Take 1 capsule 3 times daily. Drink at least 64 ounces of distilled water throughout the day for best results. This product contains Cascara sagrada bark so please make sure that you are following the directions carefully and only using this as a SHORT-TERM product.
NOTICE
This product is not recommended for women who are pregnant or nursing or others who have a medical condition except under the direction of a physician. Children under 12 should not use this product. Discontinue use and consult a physician if you have or develop abdominal pain, diarrhea, nausea, or vomiting. Do not exceed recommended dosage. This is not for long-term use. It is not to be used as a weight loss product.
ICP
ICP™ helps keep your colon clean. It does this with an advanced mix of fibers that scour out residues. A healthy digestive system is important for the proper functioning of all other systems because it absorbs nutrients that are used throughout the body. A healthy digestive system means healthy emotions and a healthy immune system along with a lot of other things. Using this supplement is going to help get rid of all the toxic gunk sitting in your colon.
ICP contains ingredients such as psyllium, oat bran, and flax and fennel seeds to form a combination of soluble and insoluble fibers. Enhanced with a special blend of essential oils, the fibers work to decrease the buildup of wastes, improve nutrient absorption, and help maintain a healthy heart. ICP provides two grams of dietary fiber, one gram of soluble fiber, and one gram of insoluble fiber per serving.
USAGE
Mix 2 rounded teaspoons with at least 8 oz. of juice or water. Drink immediately as this product tends to thicken quickly when added to liquid. Tastes best in carrot juice, apple juice, or smoothies. If cleansing or eating a high-protein diet, use 3x daily. If eating a low-protein diet, use once daily.
NOTICE
Using this product without enough liquid may cause choking. Do not use this product if you have difficulty swallowing. This product contains Aloe Vera (A. barbadensis) leaf. Read and follow directions carefully. Do not use if you have or develop diarrhea, loose stools, or abdominal pain. Consult your physician if you have frequent diarrhea. If you are pregnant, nursing, taking medication or have a medical condition, consult your physician before using this product.
month 3
Long story short, if you want healthy eyes, a strong immune system, and a ton of energy, feed your body DAILY with a juice that packs a ton of punch: NingXia Red.
Not only does it taste good but it contains one powerful ingredient, NingXia Wolfberry puree. Wolfberries score very high on the ORAC (Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity) scale. This scale measures the ability of a food or any other substance to quench oxygen free radicals in a test tube. Free radicals are not good and we want them OUT of your body. NingXia Red helps provide an unfriendly place for free radicals, which is a GREAT thing for our health.
The Wolfberry superfruit contains zeaxanthin, a carotenoid important to maintaining healthy vision. It also contains polysaccharides, amino acids, and symbiotic vitamin mineral pairs that when presented together promote optimum internal absorption. In other words, it contains ALL. THE. GOOD. STUFF.
The combination of other fruit juices from blueberries, plums, cherries, pomegranate, and aronia along with essential oils provide an even more powerful and beneficial supplement that supports your health and well-being.
USAGE
Drink 1-2 ounces 2x daily. Best served chilled. Shake well before use.
month 3 order ideas
For your ER order, you have many different options. You can purchase the NingXia Red Essential Rewards Kit and save $30.75!!
NingXia Red ER Kit Includes:
NingXia Red, 750 ml, 4 pk.
NingXia Red Singles, 2 oz., 30 pk.
Or you can purchase your NingXia Red in a set of bottles or a box of 2oz packets. The bottles are great to distribute smaller quantities at a time, whereas the 2oz packets are very convenient for an on-the-go lifestyle.
now what?
The ideas listed above make a GREAT plan. However, you may want a more customized plan based on your specific health and wellness goals. If so…
1) Take a few minutes to jot down three personal health goals.
Goals can be things such as reducing stress, losing weight, keeping your immune system up, improving energy, or decreasing feelings of guilt or sadness.
Two other greats things to test are your “Color Personality” and your “Love Language”. It is actually really fun and only takes a few minutes!
Monthly Budget (to work on your goals; must be $50 or above if joining Essential Rewards)
Any questions you have concerning the plan
Best contact method for discussing plan
3) Sign up for a membership and Essential Rewards and get the first few things you want to try!
4) Send me a message after your 3rd ER order processes through and I will send you a special gift!! Already on ER? Perfect!! You already know how awesome it is!!
If you stay consistent, use your reference material and ask for help from the community along the way, I promise you will see and feel some exciting changes in your life! Can’t wait to help you dive in deeper and get going!
how to join essential rewards
Three EASY steps to sign up For Essential Rewards!
Step 1 – Select ER Monthly Order on the left-hand side in your Virtual Office (VO).
Step 2 – Follow the steps and fill up your cart. Don’t forget to save!
Step 3 – Set your process date and manage your ER order anytime you want.
a few sides notes
Information obtained here is meant for educational and informational purposes ONLY, and to motivate and empower you to make your own wellness journey based on your own research and partnership with your healthcare provider.
The statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. These products are not intendedto diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
Looking to take the go-to dishes in your cooking arsenal from can-do to can’t live without? Elevate your basic cooking ingredients with our Vitality™ essential oil line!
We’ve got recipes to help turn standard ingredients like olive oil and vinegar into superstar bases that’ll make your dishes a home run! Simply add Vitality essential oils, herbs, and spices to olive oil and vinegar and get mixing.
Lemon herb olive oil
Rosemary, Basil, and Lemon—oh, yes! This trio adds the right amount of tart, fresh flavors to enhance your favorite dishes.
1. Pour the olive oil into a pot or saucepan. Keep on low heat until it starts to bubble. 2. Mix in the herbs. 3. Let it simmer until the oil is fragrant. Be sure not to let the herbs brown. 4. Turn off the heat and let the mixture cool. 5. Add drops of Vitality oil into the mixture. Remember, less is more. Start with fewer drops, then add more to taste if desired. 6. Funnel the mixture into bottles.
Chili herb olive oil
Boost your finger-lickin’ foods with a flavor kick that’ll have the whole family coming back for seconds! The chili peppers and Black Pepper Vitality spark a hint of spice, while a variety of herbs round out the over all flavor.
YL tip: Add additional herbs you have on hand like cilantro, thyme, or basil.
1. Pour the olive oil into a pot or saucepan. Keep on low heat until it starts to bubble. 2. Mix in the herbs. 3. Let it simmer until the oil is fragrant. Be sure not to let the herbs brown. 4. Turn off the heat and let the mixture cool. 5. Add drops of Vitality oil into the mixture. Remember, less is more. Start with fewer drops, then add more to taste if desired. 6. Funnel the mixture into bottles.
Citrus vinegar
Vinegar is a tangy topping that can pair well with desserts or entrees. Sweeten your vinegar with citrus favorites that’ll up the ante on your favorite dishes.
YL tip: Substitute balsamic vinegar to satisfy your sweet tooth.
1. Slice fruit and put in a 16-ounce bottle or jar. 2. Pour vinegar into a saucepan and bring to a simmer on the stove. 3. Add vinegar to your bottle or jar over the fruit. Let stand at room temperature for 8 hours. 4. Add Vitality oils. 5. Shake well before using because oil and vinegar don’t mix.
How to use Vitality-infused oil
Oil and vinegar are starting points for many dishes, but their uses are endless. Here’s how to use these flavor-bursting recipes:
Drizzle over salad on their own or use as a base for homemade salad dressing.
Marinate meats, tofu, or veggies.
Pour onto a small plate and use as a dip for bread as an appetizer for parties.
Pour over warm brie and serve with crackers.
Trickle over flatbread pizzas.
Swap bland oil and vinegar in your go-to sauces like pad thai, pasta, or enchilada sauce.
Tips for infusing olive oil at home
Wash and thoroughly dry all herbs to keep fresh
Place in a glass jar with a tightly sealed lid and store in the refrigerator.
for an intense fusion of flavor, prepare a few days in advance and let the ingredients marinate in the refrigerator before use.
Use dried herbs instead of fresh ones for a longer-lasting oil.
When using Vitality oils, start with a small dose and add more drops for a more intense flavor.
Swap to satisfy
Want to tailor your olive oil and vinegar to your taste buds’ liking? These recipes are easily customizable with your favorite flavor combinations. Simply swap out the herbs, fruit, and oils to create endless flavor options. Here are some Vitality oils you can use:
How long do infused oils last? Use within two weeks. If you refrigerate your infused olive oils, they should stay good for up to a month. If the additives start showing signs of wilting/spoiling, discard the rest of the oil.
Why is my infused olive oil cloudy? When refrigerated, olive oil starts to solidify, which makes it appear opaque. It will look clearer at room temperature. If its cloudy at room temperature, that is a sign that the herbs are starting to spoil.
Thieves® Household Cleaner. You know it, you use it, and you love it. If you don’t love it yet, you will after your cleaning is transformed by its strength and versatility.
This powerful, ultra-concentrated, plant-based solution is a helpful and naturally derived chore companion—helping you clean everything from wood floors to shower doors. And the best part? It doesn’t have any of the harsh chemicals you’ve removed from your lifestyle. That’s right, you don’t have to worry about what’s in Thieves Household Cleaner. It’s perfect to use around everyone in your whole family.
Tips for using Thieves Household Cleaner
Thieves Household Cleaner is safe to use at a 15:1 dilution or higher for most non-porous surfaces. One capful of Thieves Household Cleaner is equal to approximately ½ tablespoon, so ½ cup of water mixed with one capful of cleaner yields a 15:1 dilution.
Most cleaning applications use 30 parts water to 1 part Thieves Household Cleaner—more concentrated dilutions may be necessary for some uses.
For best results, mix only the amount of cleaner that you will need to use right away.
Before using Thieves Household Cleaner, do a small spot test in an inconspicuous location, especially on wood, plastic, fabric, and granite.
Do not use this product on soft plastics or vinyl.
29 DIY cleaners with Thieves Household Cleaner
We made 29 cleaners with less than one bottle of Thieves Household Cleaner! With 60-65 capfuls of the cleaner in each 14.4 fl. oz bottle, we had plenty to spare even after making each of these solutions. Keep reading to find out how to use Thieves Household Cleaner in all areas of your home!
Kitchen cleaners
1. Trash can scrub
Clean stains and deodorize!
Empty trash can and fill with water.
Pour 1-2 capfuls of Thieves Household Cleaner directly into the can (1 capful for a small can, 2 for a large one).
Let sit for several hours.
If needed, scrub stubborn stains with a brush.
Empty can and wipe dry.
For an ongoing fresh scent, place a few drops of Eucalyptus Globulus essential oil on a cotton ball and put it in the bottom of the trash can before replacing the liner.
1. In a large bowl, combine all dry ingredients and mix evenly. 2. In a separate bowl, combine water, essential oils or blends, and V-6. 3. Pour liquids into a large bowl and whisk together until combined. 4. Use mixture to fill ice cube tray or candy mold about three fourths full. If mixture expands and spills over mold, gently replace into the mold. 5. Let sit overnight to dry in room temperature area. When dry, pop tablets out and store in a glass jar. 6. When needed, put a tablet in the toilet bowl, hard-to-clean bottles, or sink full of dishes to help clean and deodorize. Let tablet sit in bowl, bottle, or sink for 20-30 minutes to fizz and dissolve. Once dissolved, flush or rinse out.
So you’re a gardener…or maybe a startup gardener! Wherever you land, there are some basic things that seem to apply to everyone during the stages of their gardening journey.
Things like weeds, pests, and bad harvests show up in every garden, every year. But this class is going to be your ticket to tackling even the hardest of seasons. You’ll have tricks up your sleeve that will help you succeed from the day the seed goes in the ground ‘til the day you harvest it.
Using essential oils in the gardening process helps us garden in a way that results in fruits and veggies that have been lovingly cared for in the most organic way. You can even achieve that affordably, sustainably, and without the use of harsh chemicals, friend!
What are Essential Oils?
Essential oils are the chemical compounds that make up the lifeblood of a plant. They’ve even been referred to as the ‘immune system’ of the plant.
We are able to use them through the process of distillation after harvesting. The part of the plant with the beneficial chemicals (stems, leaves, bark, etc.) is harvested and sent through a very meticulous distillation process. Every plant needs a very specific distillation time and Young Living has 25 years of experience in that art.
After the plant is distilled a concentrated oil is the result. It is potent and loaded with uncountable benefits for your overall health and wellness. It is bottled, shipped to you, and then can be used topically, aromatically, or internally*!
The beneficial chemicals in the oils can be absorbed by your body (and the plants in your garden) to maintain optimal overall health and wellness. Because they are so concentrated, one little drop goes a loooong way! Wait until we get into the canning section of class – your mind will be blown!
*Young Living has an entire line of oils dedicated to ingestion called the Vitality line.
Seed to Seal
This is hugely important. Why? The FDA has almost no regulations and safety measures on the essential oil industry. The oils found in drug and big box stores, online, and even from other oil companies have been tested to find harsh synthetic fillers and chemicals. A cheap perfume grade oil is distilled at high pressure and high temps and usually with chemical solvents. This yields an adulterated oil that can still be labeled “100% pure”… which, in my opinion, is a scary thing!
Young Living decided to rise above that and create their own strict guidelines to ensure purity. It is called the Seed to Seal Quality Commitment. They abide by very strict guidelines to fulfill their promise in sending only the best products to your home.
plant material that is grown on corporately- owned farms or carefully vetted partner farms (that you CAN visit!)
sustainable farming and sourcing practices, providing the purest oil
great care taken to preserve and protect natural resources
hand-weeded fields and ZERO use of pesticides
oils that retain all their natural constituents and therapeutic properties
use of food-grade distillers with state-of-the-art design and distillation methods
low pressure and low temperature distillation, without the use of solvents or synthetic chemicals
rigorous testing on each batch by internal labs and third-party facilities
oils that are carefully reviewed through every step of production in order to meet or exceed industry safety and purity standards (beyond organic!)
And the best part… if the oils do not meet these high standards they are rejected and will not be bottled as a Young Living product. Now you can sleep tonight knowing you are getting the absolute best.
Check out more info on their Seed to Seal promise HERE.
Ready to Tackle the Outdoors
It’s no secret that bugs can totally ruin your garden plans. From eating your plants to taking a bite out of you, they can really dampen any gardening dreams!
You could use insecticides or sprays made from harsh chemicals, but certainly at a cost to you and the environment. They can lead to bioaccumulation of toxins in your body (and even in your plants) that are linked to chronic illness and disease! Yikes.
Fortunately, Young Living recently released an Insect Repellent that has been tested to repel mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas using 100% naturally derived, plant-based ingredients. Pure sesame oil and a carefully selected blend of essential oils traditionally used for their bug-repellent properties come together to make up all 99% of the active ingredients in this formula. The other 1%? Vitamin E. That means you can use it on your little ones and not worry about the synthetic chemicals used in many traditional repellents. You’ll also love the pleasant, citrusy aroma and smooth, non-sticky application.
If you’re more of a DIY kind of person, try this easy Outdoor Spray recipe! It can be used on you OR your plants! #HowConvenient
Pets & Your Garden
Now, what about the pets we love and adore but can’t seem to keep out of our gardens? As much as we love them, let’s face it, they can get into the garden and cause quite a mess.
A simple and safe way to encourage them to stay away is by using scents. Dogs dislike the smell of Black Pepper and cats dislike the smell of Rosemary. Therefore, they’ll choose to stay away from areas with that scent. And if you didn’t know already, those essential oils exist! Perfect!
Unwanted & Unpleasant Growth
You can waste SO many hours on weeds. Summer is short enough, let’s not spend unnecessary time dealing with weed overgrowth! If you’re trying to get rid of unwanted plant growth that doesn’t involve harmful chemicals (linked to so many neurological, hormone, and overall health imbalances) just know there are some safe alternatives. Weeds HATE Cinnamon so try your hand at this easy DIY.
‘Wither the Unwanteds’ Spray
Add 25-50 drops of Cinnamon Bark in a 4 oz. glass spray bottle. Top it off with distilled water. Shake and spray at offenders. Douse roots and leaves as needed.
Sometimes ‘unwanted friends’ begin to grow on our beloved plants. That can cause poor growth, bad harvests, or even plant death. They can block the pores of the plant responsible for breathing and eventually choke out the plant completely. They can also steal vital nutrients from the plants which significantly decreases the amount of your harvest! We don’t want that!
‘Plant Love’ Spray
Add 10 drops each of Tea Tree, Peppermint, and Citronella to a 4 oz. glass spray bottle. Top off with distilled water. Shake and spray along affected parts of the plant during your gardening chores!
Companion Plants
If you’ve been around the garden scene a while you’ve heard of companion planting. And if you haven’t heard, let me enlighten you! Some plants play well together; others do not. This is because every plant has certain nutrients that it uses from the soil for growth and fruit production. Also, plants excrete certain byproducts back into the soil that can either help or hinder your harvest!
If you grow two types of plants next to each other that both rely strongly on nitrogen for growth, they will compete and overuse the nitrogen in the soil and starve each other out! Corn and tomatoes are an example of plants that don’t play nice.
Conversely, if you plant two types of plants next to each other that eat different nutrients they will work together to promote each other’s growth. A good example of this is tomatoes and carrots. They work together in the soil. Therefore, plant them next to each other and it will result in a more bountiful harvest.
So what does this have to do with essential oils? Well, essential oils are made from plants so consider using oils in place of your companion plants. For example, if you are looking to plant Lavender next to Green Beans, grab your Lavender essential oil instead. Create a “Companion Spray” to use on the soil and leaves of the plant using this guide. Add 10-15 drops of the corresponding essential oil to a 4 oz. glass spray bottle. Top with distilled water; shake before each use. So easy!
Pollinator Party
Did you know that some plants self-pollinate? Fruits like peppers can stand alone and produce fruit. Not every plant does that. Lots of them need the help of cross-pollination between male and female plants! Know who helps with that?! POLLINATORS!
Bees and butterflies are some of the friendliest insects you can get into your garden! Without them you’ll have measly harvests and be disappointed that all your hard work didn’t result in the delicious produce you wanted!
Pollinators are attracted to the smell of flowers and luckily some of our wonderful essential oils are distilled from flowers… so convenient!
Create a spray using essential oils to spritz on the flowering buds of your garden to encourage pollinators to come in and get the job done!
Tending the Harvest
It’s the most wonderful time of the year… HARVEST SEASON! All your hard work and patience has paid off and you get to pluck delicious fresh food from the earth and eat to your heart’s content!
If you’re like me, sometimes I find that fresh produce goes bad before I can eat it. That’s because bacteria rests on your fruit and without the support of a plant, the fruits and veggies break down and can grow nasty spots on them.
As you can see, it’s important to always wash your fruits and veggies! It keeps you and your family from ingesting yucky things the produce may have tagging along.
Young Living has an exclusive Thieves Fruit and Veggie Soak (and a spray!) that you can use for this very reason. Soaking the food loosens the dirt and other crud and rinses it right down the drain.
You can even make your very own “produce soak’ with a sinkful of warm water and several drops of Thieves and Lemon essential oils. Super simple! Another tip I have for keeping your harvest fresher for longer is to clean your storage containers! The amazing Thieves Dish Soap contains no sulfates, dyes, formaldehyde, phosphates, or synthetic perfumes and has a delightful citrus scent. It’s one of my favs!
And has anyone ever noticed that once the fruits and veggies get in the house those pesky winged creatures magically appear?! Try out this simple diffuser recipe, using your essential oils, to keep yourself sane.
Canning Season
In order to can 30 quarts of spaghetti sauce you will need a lot of oregano… LOTS. Buying dried organic oregano adds up very fast in order to achieve the flavor you want in your recipes.
But remember when we talked about how essential oils are concentrated liquid forms of a plant?! You better believe that means they pack a big flavor punch for each drop you use! For one LARGE pot of spaghetti sauce I use 2-3 drops of Oregano Vitality essential oil as opposed to much larger amounts of dried oregano. That’s it! It goes so far and has such a rich and pure flavor. Save money AND use a high quality ingredient. #WinWin
Young Living has an entire line of Vitality oils, not just Oregano. There is a great selection of herbs and spices (and even citruses). PLUS they are all Non-GMO certified. That’s huge!
Love for the Gardener
You know we love our plants when we are willing to break our backs, scrape up our fingers, and endure biting bugs in order to give them the best chance they’ve got!
Young Living knows you’re just as important as your precious plants and has a whole host of products to help you care for yourself, too!
Muscle Love
Stiffness can be a thing of the past when you use a Deep Relief Roll-On or Panaway on sore muscles. Simply roll or drop the oil on the area that is giving you grief. Use as needed!
Skin Love
Lavender is an oil no gardener should ever be without! It may help cleanse and soothe minor skin irritations so keep it on hand. It also can be soothing to the skin after a day in the sun. If you forget to apply your outdoor spray, don’t worry. This roller recipe will be just what you need!
Get the Best Deal
Young Living has several options to help you get started and snag the best deal possible. Even if you already have your own Young Living account, there are still some money-saving tricks you need to know!
Who wants to pay full price when you can get the same thing at a discount?
Information obtained here is meant for educational and informational purposes ONLY, and to motivate and empower you to make your own wellness journey based on your own research and partnership with your healthcare provider.
The statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
Because of its floral notes and enchanting flavor, Lavender is a delicious addition to many foods. Take your hot chocolate from ordinary to gourmet by adding a little Lavender Vitality™ to the mix!
Ingredients
4 cups unsweetened almond, dairy, or other milk of your choice
8 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
4 teaspoons honey, or more to taste
4 drops Lavender Vitality essential oil (you can also use peppermint vitality oil for a yummy peppermint hot cocoa!)
Instructions
Heat 4 cups of milk in a saucepan on medium-high heat.
Add 8 tablespoons unsweetened raw cocoa, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and 4 teaspoons honey; whisk until smooth.
When warm, remove from heat and stir in 4 drops Lavender Vitality essential oil.
Freedom Pines Farm 