Educate your Senses

Your Holistic Guide to Wellness

As medical costs increase and people grow skeptical of traditional medical advice and pharmaceuticals, holistic medicine is playing a more significant role. Holistic medicine is known as treating the whole person with the goal of achieving a balance in mind, body and the spirit. At, Hemp Essentials, the same approach is taken.

While Western medical practices focus on treating the physical symptoms and complaints of illness and disease, a holistic approach looks at a variety of factors that may be contributing to health problems and healing that, not masking the symptoms. Holistic therapies range from the use of herbs to yoga and meditation practices to massage and crystals. Holistic practitioners specialize in different modalities and treatments.

Although holistic medicine was once considered by many (especially in the West) to be illegitimate, these days even doctors who have studied traditional Western medicine are starting to recognize the benefits of many holistic medicine perspectives and treatments. Even medical doctors will suggest certain holistic treatments as a supplement to their methods. 

The basic concept of holistic medicine is that each person has a physical, mental, emotional and spiritual component to his or her body. Each part has different and unique levels of consciousness and energy. When there is disharmony between the different parts, the body can become unhealthy, resulting in illness or disease. People who practice holistic medicine believe harmony must be recreated in order for healing and health to take place. 

Common signs of unbalance in one's body are a compromised immune system, aches and pains, and emotional instability. The holistic practitioner's goal is to restore balance first, which results in the improvement and eventual disappearance of symptoms. The way to meet this objective varies greatly from doctor to doctor. Some chiropractors also specialize in holistic medicine, and they focus on creating balance through spinal alignment. On the other hand, an herbalist or nutritionist is going to focus on creating balance through foods and herbal concoctions, while an aromatherapist can bring balance back through essential oils that are applied directly to the body via lotions or carrier oils. 
There are many different categories within holistic medicine. Here are five of the most popular therapies: 
• Acupuncture ~ a traditional Eastern medicine that utilizes needles inserted into certain points in the body to stimulate energy flows and positively influences healing and pain relief. 
• Aromatherapy ~ an ancient art that targets the emotional, physical and mental bodies, this therapy uses essential oils and other natural materials and substances to provide various aromas that have been known to heal, energize, rejuvenate and relax. 
• Homeopathy ~ uses natural substances that may create illness symptoms in a healthy person to boost health in a sick person who is experiencing the same symptoms. It is important that this therapy is administered and monitored by a knowledgeable practitioner, because side effects can become dangerous in some cases. 
• Meditation ~ It's a form of concentration, increasing awareness and removing distractions; while many people use it for personal development, others believe meditation can promote healing and rejuvenation. 

• Reflexology ~ this treatment is much more than foot massage, but rather a pain reliever and potential healing method that utilizes pressure on particular points in the hands and feet in an effort to help the body to heal itself as well as prevent illness and disease. This modality is used in conjunction to aromatherapy to effectively direct essentials to specific parts of the body.

Now, take a few moments and think about ways to keep yourself healthy naturally and let me know by adding your comments. 

Sandalwood for the soul

Today is a monumental day in my life as it is my Birth Day! That's right, 39 years old at 10:03 AM I came into this world.

With that, I decided to treat myself to some healing potions from my most favorite aromatic tree a parasitic evergreen called Sandalwood. Indian sandalwood has long been used as an ingredient in the perfume industry; however the plant is now under threat and appears on the World Conservation Union's (IUCN) threatened species list. The essential oil is extracted from the tree's heartwood therefore has become a highly priced oil on the verge of extinction due to over harvesting. 

Now a sustainability program is in place by Australia's Forest Product Commission (FPC). The Australian program utilizes years of sandalwood management research to successfully establish sandalwood tree farms that will replace harvesting from the wild. The FPC has set quotas on the amount that can be harvested, with about half of the quota coming from dead wood. Also, people who uproot a tree are required to plant twelve seeds in its place. 

So, today I give my soul the gifts of Sandalwood which are stillness, unity and being as I march forth into a new year of great accomplishments and abundance.

Healing through Nature, with Nature, by Nature, Naturally!

Is it a phase or fad, something that only “those people” use? The answer is No. The art of Aromatherapy has been used for tens of thousands of years; it is not new to this world. The ancestry of this practice is entrenched in history as the earliest people discovered by chance that some of the leaves, berries, roots and flowers gathered for food actually made sick people feel better, while the juices from some of these plants made wounds heal faster. The art and science of using plant oil in treatment is a brief definition of aromatherapy. It is a truly holistic therapy that takes into account and heals three vital aspects of a person: mind, body and spirit.

Many do not realize that by simply walking in nature has aromatherapeutic effects, inherently our daily lives are inundated with the presence of aromatherapy. The feeling that occurs when one smells a rose happens to be an aromatherapeutic experience, it is a gentle but potent antidepressant, instantly bringing a feeling of calm into their world. If one were to rub a petal in between their fingers, a slight amount of oil would be released and absorbed through the skin, creating a mind, body, spirit encounter. Another fine example of common occurrence would be when twigs from certain bushes or trees are thrown onto a fire for fuel. The smoke and aromas they give off have changed the emotional states of people such as feelings of happiness, security, drowsiness and so on. Also when one cooks with fresh herbs, aromatic molecules are released and inhaled thus healing oneself naturally through nature.

Essential oils are the base in which aromatherapy is applied to heal, repair and shift perception. One of the best ways to effectively receive the benefits of essential oils is to use skincare products blended with pure unadulterated oils. There are essential oils that have constituents for anti-aging, rejuvenating, cleansing, toning, soothing and balancing the skin. Facial products that offer essential oils in the mix give the user added advantages as their skin will receive complementary benefits and their mind and spirit will also gain vast healing by nature. 

Essential oils are part of nature’s handiwork. One can not expect to change the world, yet one can change their immediate environment, however; the actions that are put into play create a wave of energy or vibration that extends out into the world, thus creating change or awareness. In the aspect of healing through nature, with nature, by nature, naturally, an awareness is being created that one can truly live a life based on the knowledge that one can use an array of holistic methods to maintain and promote a healthy lifestyle while contributing to the greater good of our planet.

For centuries, people have been committed to healing themselves and others through the power of flowers, leaves, berries, roots and bark in the simple practice of aromatherapy. Aromatherapy is simply a fragrant lens which provides physical healing to the body, a window to spiritual nature and balance to the human emotions. Experience the insight and wisdom of true holistic aromatherapy from certified practitioners and let nature be an intricate part of daily life.

Madame Bergamot - experience her gifts

Let us explore Madame Bergamot. She is a hybrid of sorts, a cross between a lemon and a bitter orange, so imagine a fruit that is smaller than an orange, round like one yet yellow like a lemon, you’ve just envisioned a Bergamot.

Tiny white star-shaped flowers cover the branches along with lush green leaves and it bears a pear-shaped yellow fruit. The best quality oil is hand pressed from the rind of the fruit which has a lemony orange smell with a slightly sweet, balsamic undertone. Bergamot oil possesses strong antiseptic properties which makes it useful for the treatment of acne and skin infections. Its astringent quality helps regulate excessive oiliness of the skin or scalp.

Madame Bergamot’s personality is young, fresh, caring and considerate although she is not necessarily young in years, she will always be young at heart and have a joyful approach to life. Vivienne Lunny MD, Aromatherapist and Tutor says, “Bergamot comes into the room smiling, bright, happy and in balance, at ease with the world and is discriminating, loves nature, is tactful, practical, highly imaginative, caring, and productive.

Bergamot can see both sides of any issue, which enables him/her to re-balance feelings and emotions.”

It is an amplifier of light energy, energizing and magnifying, opening the heart of cosmic joy. Bergamot teaches that the help of the angelic realms is ever there; all we have to do is reach for it. To any soul, bergamot brings freshness and illumination, lifting us from stagnation, bringing an awareness that the light will rescue us and take us ever forward to the realms of peace and joy.

Remember Bergamot is refreshing and uplifting which helps balance the emotions and nerves. Research that was conducted in Italy indicates that Bergamot oil relieves feelings of fear, anxiety and panic. Its soothing nature encourages release of resentment and forgiveness that tend to be repressed emotions. Studies show that it equalizes emotions and moods by balancing the activity of the hypothalamus. It is said to regulate trapped or misdirected energy and redirects it toward healthy pursuits. Just simply smelling Bergamot oil can stabilize a person in a shaky emotional state.

References:
Davis, Patricia. Aromatherapy An A-Z. Great Britain: C.W. Daniel Company, 1988.
Wilson, Roberta. Aromatherapy Essential Oils for Vibrant Health and Beauty. New York: Avery, 2002.
Worwood, Valerie Ann. Aromatherapy for the Soul. California: New World Library, 1999.
Worwood, Valerie Ann. The Fragrant Mind. California: New World Library, 1996.

Pregnancy Safe Essential Oils and their powerful effects

Comprised is a list of essential oils that are safe to use during pregnancy

 

Bergamot: Citrus

©       Effects on the Mind & Emotions

°          Calming

°          Promotes restful sleep 

°          Mood uplifting

°          Relieves anxiety, nervous tension & stress

°          Helps relieve mental fatigue

°          Improves mental clarity & alertness

°          Sharpens the senses

°          Refreshing

°          Balances the nervous system

©       Effects on the Body

°          Cooling

°          Helps in the reduction of cellulite deposits

°          Purifying

 

Bois de Rose (Rosewood): Slightly Rosy

©       Effects on the Mind & Emotions

°          Calming

°          Mood lifting

°          Relieves nervousness and stress

©       Effects on the Body

°          Lessens pain

°          Regenerates & moisturizes the skin

 

Cardamom: Spicy

©       Effects on the Mind & Emotions

°          Mood uplifting

°          Improves mental clarity & memory

°          Energizing

©       Effects on the Body

°          Warming

°          Relieves pain

°          Improves physical strength

°          Improves digestion

 

Elemi: Lemon-like balsamic

©       Effects on the Mind & Emotions

°          Calming

°          Mood uplifting

°          Promotes restful sleep

°          Reduces stress

°          Helps to communicate feelings

°          Helpful for meditation

©       Effects on the Body

°          Warming

°          Opens the communication passages

°          Healing to the skin

 

Fir needles: Pine-like

©       Effects on the Mind & Emotions

°          Calming

°          Mood uplifting

°          Improves mental clarity

°          Refreshing

°          Reviving

°          Encourages communication

©       Effects on the Body

°          Lessens pain

°          The vapors help breathing

°          Helps in the reduction of cellulite

°          Purifying

 

Frankincense: Woody & camphor-like

©       Effects on the Mind & Emotions

°          Calming

°          Mood uplifting

°          Promotes restful sleep

°          Encourages communication

°          Brings out feelings

°          Helpful in meditation

©       Effects on the Body

°          Reduces inflammation

°          Healing to the skin (reduces wrinkles)

 

Geranium: Rose-like

©       Effects on the Mind & Emotions

°          Calming in small amounts

°          Stimulating in large amounts

°          Mood uplifting

°          Reduces stress and tension

°          Encourages communication

©       Effects on the Body

°          Cooling

°          Lessens pain

°          Reduces inflammation

°          Helps in the reduction of cellulite deposits

°          Purifying

©       Other Uses

°          Disinfectant

°          Repels insects

°          Soothes the skin after insect bites

 

Ginger: Spicy

©       Effects on the Mind & Emotions

°          Mood uplifting

°          Helps relieve mental fatigue

°          Improves mental clarity & memory

°          Stimulating

©       Effects on the Body

°          Warming

°          Relaxes tight muscles

°          Relieves aches & pains

°          Improves digestion

°          Relieves travel dizziness & nausea

©       Other Uses

°          Disinfectant

 

Grapefruit: Citrus

©       Effects on the Mind & Emotions

°          Mood uplifting

°          Helps relieve mental fatigue

°          Improves mental clarity, alertness & memory

°          Sharpens the senses

°          Reduces stress

°          Refreshing

°          Reviving

°          Energizing

©       Effects on the Body

°          Cooling

°          Increases physical strength & energy

°          Helps in the reduction of cellulite deposits

°          Purifying

°          Precaution: Skin can burn if exposed to sunlight after topical application, can irritate dry skin.

 

Lavender: Floral herbaceous

©       Effects on the Mind & Emotions

°          Calming in small amounts

°          Stimulating in large amounts

°          Mood uplifting

°          Promotes restful sleep

°          Reduces stress & tension

°          Soothing for the nervous system

°          Balances mood swings

©       Effects on the Body

°          Relaxes tight muscles

°          Lessens aches and pains

°          Breaks up congestion

°          Reduces inflammation

°          The vapors helps breathing

°          Improves digestion

°          Soothing to the intestines

°          Helps in the reduction of cellulite

°          Purifying

°          Healing to the skin

©       Other Uses

°          Disinfectant

°          Soothes the skin after insect bites

°          Repels insects

°          Soothes burns (1^st & 2^nd degree)

 

Lemon: Lemony

©       Effects on the Mind & Emotions

°          Calming

°          Mood uplifting

°          Helps relieve mental fatigue

°          Improves mental clarity, alertness & memory

°          Sharpens the senses

°          Promotes restful sleep

°          Reduces stress

°          Refreshing

°          Reviving

°          Balancing; calming or energizing

°          Balances the nervous system

©       Effects on the Body

°          Cooling

°          Helps in the reduction of cellulite deposits

°          Purifying

©       Other Uses

°          Disinfectant

°          Soothes the skin after insect bites

°          Precaution: Skin can burn if exposed to sunlight after topical application, can irritate dry skin.

 

Lime: Fresh citrus

©       Effects on the Mind & Emotions

°          Mood uplifting

°          Helps relieve mental fatigue

°          Improves mental clarity, alertness & memory

°          Sharpens the senses

°          Reduces stress

°          Refreshing

°          Reviving

°          Strengthening to the nerves

©       Effects on the Body

°          Cooling

°          Helps in the reduction of cellulite deposits

°          Purifying

©       Other Uses

°          Disinfectant

°          Soothes the skin after insect bites

°          Precaution: Skin can burn if exposed to sunlight after topical application, can irritate dry skin.

 

Mandarin: Sweet citrus

©       Effects on the Mind & Emotions

°          Calming

°          Promotes restful sleep

°          Mood uplifting

°          Improves mental clarity & alertness

°          Sharpens the senses

°          Relieves stress & tension

©       Effects on the Body

°          Cooling

°          Helps in the reduction of cellulite deposits

°          Purifying

°          Precaution: Skin can burn if exposed to sunlight after topical application, can irritate dry skin.

 

Orange

: Sweet orange

©       Effects on the Mind & Emotions

°          Calming

°          Mood uplifting

°          Promotes restful sleep

°          Improves mental clarity

°          Reduces stress

©       Effects on the Body

°          Cooling

°          Helps in the reduction of cellulite deposits

°          Purifying

°          Precaution: Skin can burn if exposed to sunlight after topical application, can irritate dry skin.

 

Patchouli: Musky

©       Effects on the Mind & Emotions

°          Mood uplifting

°          Aphrodisiac

°          Euphoric

°          Nerve stimulant

°          Interferes with sleep

©       Effects on the Body

°          Healing to the skin

©       Other Uses

°          Repels insects

 

Peppermint: Strong mint

©       Effects on the Mind & Emotions

°          Mood uplifting

°          Helps relieve mental fatigue

°          Improves mental clarity, alertness, concentration & memory

°          Sharpens the senses

°          Refreshing

°          Reviving

°          Energizing

°          Nerve stimulant

°          Aphrodisiac

°          Encourages communication

©       Effects on the Body

°          Cooling

°          Relieves pain

°          Increases physical strength & endurance

°          Reduces inflammation

°          The vapors help breathing

°          Improves digestion

°          Increases the appetite

°          Reduces lactation in nursing mothers

°          Soothes itching skin

©       Other Uses

°          Disinfectant

°          Repels insects

 

Rose: Sweet floral

©       Effects on the Mind & Emotions

°          Calming

°          Mood uplifting

°          Reduces stress

°          Aphrodisiac

©       Effects on the Body

°          Cooling

°          Lessens aches & pains

°          Reduces inflammation

°          Balances the female hormonal & reproductive system

°          Purifying

°          Healing to the skin

Sandalwood: Woody

©       Effects on the Mind & Emotions

°          Calming

°          Mood uplifting

°          Promotes restful sleep

°          Reduces stress

°          Aphrodisiac

°          Encourages communication

°          Brings out emotions

°          Helpful in meditation

©       Effects on the Body

°          Healing to the skin

 

Tangerine:

©       Effects on the Mind & Emotions

°          Calming

°          Mood uplifting

°          Promotes restful sleep

°          Relieves stress & tension

°          Improves mental clarity & alertness

°          Sharpens the senses

©       Effects on the Body

°          Cooling

°          Helps in the reduction of cellulite deposits

°          Purifying

°          Precaution: Skin can burn if exposed to sunlight after topical application, can irritate dry skin.

 

Tea Tree: Camphor-like

©       Effects on the Mind & Emotions

°          Mood uplifting

°          Improves mental clarity

°          Reviving

°          Stimulating

©       Effects on the Body

°          Relieves pain

°          The vapors help breathing

°          Healing to the skin

©       Other Uses

°          Disinfectant

°          Repels insects

 

Vetiver: Earthy

©       Effects on the Mind & Emotions

°          Calming

°          Mood uplifting

°          Promotes restful sleep

°          Removes stress & tension

©       Effects on the Body

°          Relaxes tight muscles

°          Relieves pain

°          Improves digestion

°          Healing to the skin

©       Other Uses

°          Repels insects

 

Ylang Ylang: Sweet floral

©       Effects on the Mind & Emotions

°          Calming

°          Mood uplifting

°          Promotes restful sleep

°          Reduces stress

°          Aphrodisiac

°          Euphoric

°          Encourages communication

°          Brings out feelings

©       Effects on the Body

°          Relaxes tight muscles

°          Lessens pain

©       Other Uses

°          Disinfectant

 

 

**If you do not see an essential oil listed, then not enough research or studies have been done to conclude that oil safe during pregnancy.**

 

 

References for this series:

Edwards,

Victoria

, The Aromatherapy Companion 1999

Schiller, David & Carol, Aromatherapy Formulas for Mind & Body 2001

Tisserand, Maggie, Aromatherapy for Women 1996

 

 

 

Hemp Essentials Pregnancy Safe Blends

 

©       Romance

©       Gentle Calm (safe for newborn too)

©       Intuition

©       Purpose

©       Serenity

Aromatherapy for Babies

Baby Aromatherapy 101... Essential oils are highly concentrated plant essences. They are comprised of 1000's of chemical constituents. Unlike synthetic substances, which have no vital force contained in them, essential oils are filled with living, pulsating vibrations.

For babies and toddlers, the ratio is very low for use. Example for lotions, massage oils, etc. newborn to 6 months - 1-3 drops to 1 ounce of lotion or carrier oil:  6-12 months - 1-5 drops to 1 ounce lotion or oil, 1-4 years old - 5-10 drops to 1 ounce lotion or oil.

Only use lavender, mandarin or chamomile on newborns and you can add eucalyptus, tea tree, geranium and rose otto after 2 months, then after 7 months you can add palmarosa, petitgrain, tangerine and cardamom. The list continues to grow after 2 years old and so on.

Please be so careful when using essential oils on your own with your children, there are essential oils that one drop on a child has toxicity levels to shut down their liver and other vital organs.

Please advise a certified aromatherapist or research before going too far with these highly effective and powerful gifts from nature. Reference book: Aromatherapy for the Healthy Childby Valerie Ann Worwood.
If you are not familiar with EO's, it is best to use to products designed for children with specific applications in mind. Hemp Essentials has a blend called "Gentle Calm" for infants and children, p.s. it's great for sleep deprived and stressed parents as well.  

When buying, please read the labels and try not to buy products with parabens, sulfates or other chemicals in products for your babies.

Sweet Basil- it doesn't get much better than this...

Basil, which we all know for it's wonders in the culinary kitchen. Basil has been characterized as uplifting, awakening and stimulating. I certainly get that sense when I use this herb in the kitchen. You can idenitfy with Basil if you are the entrepreneurs of the world, able to see what others may not even know exists.

The positive attributes that will come out when Basil is used are: Positivity, Purposefulness, Concentration, Assertiveness, Decisiveness, Straightforwardness, Trust, Integrity, Enthusiasm, Clarity, Cheerfulness, and Strength. If that doesn't put some pep in your step, I don't know what will.

The law of opposites will then allow Basil essential oil to counteract the negative attributes which can enter our lives like: Indecison, Mental Fatigue, Mental Exhaustion, Negativity, Lack of direction, Fear, Burnout, Confusion, Intellectual Fatigue, Bitterness, Conflict, Doubts and Resentment. As you can see, Basil has quite an array of healing properties. If any of these unpleasant attributes resonate with you and you desire more of the positive qualities of Basil, then explore the realms of nature based healing by visiting Hemp Essentials. On the Spot Stress Relief with Sweet Basil Essential oil will certainly give you a powerful natural remedy edging out the drama from life.

FDA Globalization Act of 2008 - Your Action is Required!

It is good business practice to get things in writing.  I am forever writing down recipes and formulas. Now we must write to fight the FDA Globalization Act. It is our voice as Independent business owners that will help change this act to accommodate our needs and the wants of public to be able to buy locally made products and know that extra care was put into the making of their skincare products.

Donna Maria Coles Johnson from the Indie Beauty Network graciously shared sample letters that you can use to contact your Congressman, Senator and the local media.    

These samples letters are a great, but the most effective portion of your letter is where you share your own story. In order to make changes happen, we must make our companies come alive. Touch the heart of those who have a vote and the media who can help us spread the word of the devastating results that this legislation would have in our industry. This pending legislation will affect those in the food industry as well so please pass the word to make all small businesses heard.

Personalize these sample letters or write straight from your heart. Tell others what you are going to do to take part to change your future.  This issue is near and dear to everyone in this industry and all those who believes in free enterprise. 

Ask your friends, family and customers to support your mission to stop or change this legislation.    

*Simply copy and paste these sample letters into your email creator and change them accordly. Don't forget to insert your story and make your voice heard.

Sample Initial Email to Congressional Representative

This letter can often be easily and quickly sent through email forms that most political representatives have at their websites or via fax.  To find contact information for Senators of the 110th Congress and The House of Representatives use these links. 

Dear Representative [or Senator] Name:

I own a small cosmetics business in [state] and I am writing to you because I am familiar with your commitment to small businesses in our state. The draft discussion of the FDA Globalization Act of 2008 is now being marked up in the House Energy & Commerce Committee and I am strongly opposed to it.

The stated purposes of the draft law are to provide FDA with funding and to protect consumers. While that is good it does not take into account that the cosmetic industry has a stellar safety record and there is no need to pass laws that would hurt thousands of small businesses while offering no safety benefits to consumers.

If passed, the new law would impose potentially devastating fees on my business of $2,000 to $12,000 per year and require me to comply with burdensome paperwork, more government red tape and unnecessary manufacturing requirements that no small business can afford.

I write to ask you to vote against the FDA Globalization Act of 2008 when the time comes. At a time when small and family owned businesses like mine are dealing with increased shipping and materials costs, a negative trade dollar decline and increased corporate taxes which will cause an increases in consumer prices, it is unfair and unnecessary to enact new laws that would put thousands of small businesses out of business. Please refer to a Petition that a trade group I belong to [am familiar with] has prepared to help spread the word. At the link, you can watch a short video, read the Petition and then read the comments of literally thousands of people, small business owners across the nation, many in our state, who oppose this new law.

(Add a short synopsis of your story here including how your family and business would be affected by this legislation if it passed in its present form)

I would like to request a short telephone conference call meeting with a staffer in your office who handles important issues affecting small businesses. Please call or email to let me know who to contact about this urgent issue.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

[signed]

Sample Initial Email to Media Representative

Dear Mr./Mrs. Media Person:

I have been a longtime fan of your [show/column/segment] in [name media outlet]. Thank you for using your platform to inform the community about issues affecting families and small businesses.

I own a small cosmetics business in town and I am writing to you because I think your audience [readers/listeners] should know about the draft of the FDA Globalization Act of 2008, which is now being marked up in the House Energy & Commerce Committee. This new law, if passed, would put me and hundreds of other small cosmetics businesses in this state out of business.

The stated purposes of the draft law are to provide FDA with funding and to protect consumers. But cosmetics have a stellar safety record and there is no need to pass laws that would hurt small businesses while offering no safety benefits consumers.

If passed, the new law would impose fees on my business of from $2,000 to $12,000 per year. What small business can afford that??! It would also require me to comply with burdensome paperwork and manufacturing requirements that no small business can afford.

At a time when consumers and small and family businesses in our state are dealing with skyrocketing gas prices and the ever-increasing cost of everything from eggs and bread to back to school supplies, it is unfair and unnecessary to enact new laws that would put small businesses out of business.

(Add a short synopsis of your story here including how your family and business would be affected by this legislation if it passed in its present form)

I would like to provide you with more information about how this new law, if enacted, would hurt so many small businesses like mine in our community. Please refer to a Petition that a trade group I belong to [am familiar with] has prepared to help spread the word. At the link, you can watch a short video, read the Petition and then read the comments of literally thousands of people across the nation, many in our state, who oppose this new law.

I will contact you to follow up in a few days. In the meantime, if you feel that this information would be of interest to your viewers, please do not hesitate to contact me at phone/email.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

[signed]

Sample Initial Email to the Honorable John D. Dingell

The Representative John D. Dingell is the chairman of the subcommittee in charge of this draft bill and it is important that you voice your opinion with his office.  It is important to check your anger at the door and speak calmly and efficiently in order to be effectively heard.  They have already been flooded with angry emails. They now need solution oriented input. Representative Dingell can be reached via fax at 202-226-0371 and emailed through his contact page.   

Dear Honorable John D. Dingell,

I am writing to inform you that I do not support the Discussion Draft of the Food and Drug Administration Globalization Act of 2008 that is being worked on in the Committee on Energy and Commerce of which you are chairman. 

The stated purposes of the draft law are to provide FDA with funding and to protect consumers. But cosmetics have a stellar safety record and there is no need to pass laws that would hurt small businesses while offering no safety benefits consumers.

If passed, the new law would impose fees on my business of from $2,000, $10,000 or as a manufacturer and importer $12,000 per year and require me to comply with burdensome paperwork and manufacturing requirements that no small business can afford. Please consider an exemption for small businesses that would allow everyone to participate in the free enterprise system. Had this legislation been in place many of the large cosmetic companies that exist today would have never had an opportunity. I am asking you to give everyone an opportunity to take part in the American dream. Please don’t close the door on small and mostly women owned businesses in America today.

I write to ask you to reconsider your position on the FDA Globalization Act of 2008 regarding cosmetics.  At a time when small and family businesses like mine are dealing with increased shipping and materials costs, as well as increases in consumer prices, it is unfair and unnecessary to enact new laws that would put small businesses out of business. Please refer to a Petition that a trade group I belong to [am familiar with] has prepared to help spread the word. At the link, you can watch a short video, read the Petition and then read the comments of literally thousands of people across the nation, many in our state, who oppose this new law.

(Add a short synopsis of your story here including how your family and business would be affected by this legislation if it passed in its present form)

I would like to request a short telephone conference call meeting with a staffer in your office who handles important issues affecting small businesses. Please call or email to let me know who to contact about this urgent issue.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

[signed]

Let's be the voice of small cottage businesses around the country and make a difference today, for our future and our children's future. God Bless!

It is good business practice to get things in writing.  I am forever writing down recipes and formulas. Now we must write to fight the FDA Globalization Act. It is our voice as Independent business owners that will help change this act to accommodate our needs and the wants of public to be able to buy locally made products and know that extra care was put into the making of their skincare products.

Donna Maria Coles Johnson from the Indie Beauty Network graciously shared sample letters that you can use to contact your Congressman, Senator and the local media.    

These samples letters are a great, but the most effective portion of your letter is where you share your own story. In order to make changes happen, we must make our companies come alive. Touch the heart of those who have a vote and the media who can help us spread the word of the devastating results that this legislation would have in our industry. This pending legislation will affect those in the food industry as well so please pass the word to make all small businesses heard.

Personalize these sample letters or write straight from your heart. Tell others what you are going to do to take part to change your future.  This issue is near and dear to everyone in this industry and all those who believes in free enterprise. 

Ask your friends, family and customers to support your mission to stop or change this legislation.    

*Simply copy and paste these sample letters into your email creator and change them accordly. Don't forget to insert your story and make your voice heard.

Sample Initial Email to Congressional Representative

This letter can often be easily and quickly sent through email forms that most political representatives have at their websites or via fax.  To find contact information for Senators of the 110th Congress and The House of Representatives use these links. 

Dear Representative [or Senator] Name:

I own a small cosmetics business in [state] and I am writing to you because I am familiar with your commitment to small businesses in our state. The draft discussion of the FDA Globalization Act of 2008 is now being marked up in the House Energy & Commerce Committee and I am strongly opposed to it.

The stated purposes of the draft law are to provide FDA with funding and to protect consumers. While that is good it does not take into account that the cosmetic industry has a stellar safety record and there is no need to pass laws that would hurt thousands of small businesses while offering no safety benefits to consumers.

If passed, the new law would impose potentially devastating fees on my business of $2,000 to $12,000 per year and require me to comply with burdensome paperwork, more government red tape and unnecessary manufacturing requirements that no small business can afford.

I write to ask you to vote against the FDA Globalization Act of 2008 when the time comes. At a time when small and family owned businesses like mine are dealing with increased shipping and materials costs, a negative trade dollar decline and increased corporate taxes which will cause an increases in consumer prices, it is unfair and unnecessary to enact new laws that would put thousands of small businesses out of business. Please refer to a Petition that a trade group I belong to [am familiar with] has prepared to help spread the word. At the link, you can watch a short video, read the Petition and then read the comments of literally thousands of people, small business owners across the nation, many in our state, who oppose this new law.

(Add a short synopsis of your story here including how your family and business would be affected by this legislation if it passed in its present form)

I would like to request a short telephone conference call meeting with a staffer in your office who handles important issues affecting small businesses. Please call or email to let me know who to contact about this urgent issue.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

[signed]

Sample Initial Email to Media Representative

Dear Mr./Mrs. Media Person:

I have been a longtime fan of your [show/column/segment] in [name media outlet]. Thank you for using your platform to inform the community about issues affecting families and small businesses.

I own a small cosmetics business in town and I am writing to you because I think your audience [readers/listeners] should know about the draft of the FDA Globalization Act of 2008, which is now being marked up in the House Energy & Commerce Committee. This new law, if passed, would put me and hundreds of other small cosmetics businesses in this state out of business.

The stated purposes of the draft law are to provide FDA with funding and to protect consumers. But cosmetics have a stellar safety record and there is no need to pass laws that would hurt small businesses while offering no safety benefits consumers.

If passed, the new law would impose fees on my business of from $2,000 to $12,000 per year. What small business can afford that??! It would also require me to comply with burdensome paperwork and manufacturing requirements that no small business can afford.

At a time when consumers and small and family businesses in our state are dealing with skyrocketing gas prices and the ever-increasing cost of everything from eggs and bread to back to school supplies, it is unfair and unnecessary to enact new laws that would put small businesses out of business.

(Add a short synopsis of your story here including how your family and business would be affected by this legislation if it passed in its present form)

I would like to provide you with more information about how this new law, if enacted, would hurt so many small businesses like mine in our community. Please refer to a Petition that a trade group I belong to [am familiar with] has prepared to help spread the word. At the link, you can watch a short video, read the Petition and then read the comments of literally thousands of people across the nation, many in our state, who oppose this new law.

I will contact you to follow up in a few days. In the meantime, if you feel that this information would be of interest to your viewers, please do not hesitate to contact me at phone/email.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

[signed]

Sample Initial Email to the Honorable John D. Dingell

The Representative John D. Dingell is the chairman of the subcommittee in charge of this draft bill and it is important that you voice your opinion with his office.  It is important to check your anger at the door and speak calmly and efficiently in order to be effectively heard.  They have already been flooded with angry emails. They now need solution oriented input. Representative Dingell can be reached via fax at 202-226-0371 and emailed through his contact page.   

Dear Honorable John D. Dingell,

I am writing to inform you that I do not support the Discussion Draft of the Food and Drug Administration Globalization Act of 2008 that is being worked on in the Committee on Energy and Commerce of which you are chairman. 

The stated purposes of the draft law are to provide FDA with funding and to protect consumers. But cosmetics have a stellar safety record and there is no need to pass laws that would hurt small businesses while offering no safety benefits consumers.

If passed, the new law would impose fees on my business of from $2,000, $10,000 or as a manufacturer and importer $12,000 per year and require me to comply with burdensome paperwork and manufacturing requirements that no small business can afford. Please consider an exemption for small businesses that would allow everyone to participate in the free enterprise system. Had this legislation been in place many of the large cosmetic companies that exist today would have never had an opportunity. I am asking you to give everyone an opportunity to take part in the American dream. Please don’t close the door on small and mostly women owned businesses in America today.

I write to ask you to reconsider your position on the FDA Globalization Act of 2008 regarding cosmetics.  At a time when small and family businesses like mine are dealing with increased shipping and materials costs, as well as increases in consumer prices, it is unfair and unnecessary to enact new laws that would put small businesses out of business. Please refer to a Petition that a trade group I belong to [am familiar with] has prepared to help spread the word. At the link, you can watch a short video, read the Petition and then read the comments of literally thousands of people across the nation, many in our state, who oppose this new law.

(Add a short synopsis of your story here including how your family and business would be affected by this legislation if it passed in its present form)

I would like to request a short telephone conference call meeting with a staffer in your office who handles important issues affecting small businesses. Please call or email to let me know who to contact about this urgent issue.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

[signed]

Let's be the voice of small cottage businesses around the country and make a difference today, for our future and our children's future. God Bless!

Demystifying Holistic Aromatherapy

One can simply inhale an essential oil, which is the essence or life blood of a plant, and instantly feel the healing effects. Every essential oil has a different quality or characteristic, which heals different aspects of one’s being.

Through aromatherapy, increasing moods, treating ailments, improving sense of well being and purify the environment are just the tip of the iceberg in a vast land of natural healing.

Aromatherapy works two ways: inhalation through the nose or topical absorption through the skin. Essential oils applied to the skin are absorbed into the bloodstream for an immediate effect. For instance, if one were to ease a headache, simply apply a lotion or oil base that has pure essential oils of Peppermint, Rosemary, Lavender or Eucalyptus for instant relief by massaging into the temples and base of the head.

From a chemistry stance, constituents with various properties and abilities make up each individual essential oil. There are no two alike. Essential oils can be placed into categories and subcategories, be cross referenced and so on. For all intents and purposes, these oils are powerful healers from Nature, that when combined become more than the sum of its parts.

As an Aromatherapist in daily practice, the integrity that these oils stand up to is quite magical. Over 8 years of formulating and treating clients has been a gift from Gaia herself. They have become integrated in daily life knowing their true purpose is healing on every level of the human body. Having tackled ailments that modern medicines could not solve and within days seeing major improvements in a safe holistic way has led to the pursuit of more experiences.

It is very important to clarify that not all products that say “aromatherapy” are pure in nature. Derived from pure plant parts, true aromatherapy benefits your physical and emotional health and well being. There are certain companies that produce air fresheners and candles that use words like aromatherapy and essential oils, while adding synthetic fragrances derived from petrochemicals that when burned, release toxic carcinogens into the air and lungs that then create a toxic build up in your body and anyone else’s who are in that breathing space.

There is a travesty in our current policy making system. Manufacturers of household products such as cleaners, air fresheners, disinfectants, etc., are not required to list the ingredients of these products on their labeling or packaging under a household trade secret law agreement.

Companies that produce natural, environmentally friendly products are held accountable for their ingredients by various companies that hold certifications. The labeling and packaging of these Green companies are complete and thorough as they have nothing to hide and proudly list their ingredients. So the next time you are shopping ~ check the labels, if they are lacking an ingredient list, they are chemically enhanced and usually have synthetic fragrances that are potentially harmful.

Phthalates - never had them

Seriously...I am on the stump today to educate those not familar with phthalates.

As an eco-conscious business owner, mother and productive member of our planet, please know that my companies have not and will never use phthalates in our products.

Please take a moment to review the research being conducted... http://www.ewg.org/chemindex/term/480