Hi, I’m Robert Seidel, president of The Essential Oil Company. Currently, I’m in Bulgaria in the beautiful Rose Valley. I just wanted to show you this incredible piece of equipment. This is how they used to make Rose oil and Rose water. This is a copper system. You can see that the color on the top here does not look like copper, and that’s because it’s tin coated. The reason it’s tin coated is because copper will react with rose oil during the manufacturing process and turn your oil green. The tin forms a lining around the copper and keeps the copper from reacting with the essential oil. The original condenser was basically just a tub of water. See, this is just a wooden tub. This pipe is coming from the head, through the bird’s beak, into the water where the steam is being cooled, turning back to a liquid. And if you look down here, this is an old essencier. What we have here is the water will come out here and the oil will come out the top. Very old and ancient system. And now if you can bear with me, we’re going to go upstairs and look at the traditional copper distillation system that was used, it was built in 1909, removed from the family during the Communist era and then actually given back to the family by the Bulgarian government. Thank you.
Ancient Distillation System For Rose Oil and Rose Water
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Wellness Guardian Skin Soothing & Immune Boosting Soap
There are certain times of the year when it can seem impossible to avoid the coughs and colds that get passed around as we all stay cooped up inside together. A skin-soothing and immune-boosting soap can help to protect us from pesky seasonal illnesses while also keeping our skin soft and happy during times of dry, chilly weather and increased hand washing. In this recipe, a large percentage of olive oil is combined with coconut, palm, shea, and oat oils for a gentle formula that is great for dry and sensitive skin. Colloidal oatmeal and yogurt come together to soothe and soften our skin when it becomes dehydrated and irritated. The added fats from yogurt also help the base oils to create a dense, creamy lather. Lavender, rosemary, and eucalyptus essential oils help to calm the skin while working to combat germs and give a boost to the immune system to protect our overall health and wellness. Ingredients 3 lb Silicone Loaf Mold 17.5 oz of Olive Oil 7 oz of Coconut Oil 7 oz of Palm Oil 2.5 oz of Shea Oil 1 oz of Oat Oil 9.8 oz of Distilled Water 4.9 oz of Sodium Hydroxide Lye 1 oz of Colloidal Oatmeal 1 oz of Plain Yogurt 0.5 Cup of Rolled Oats 1 oz of Lavender Essential Oil 0.75 oz of Rosemary Essential Oil 0.5 oz of Eucalyptus Essential Oil Instructions Weigh and combine the essential oils, then set them aside. Weigh the Olive Oil, Coconut Oil, Palm Oil, Shea Oil, and Oat Oil and combine them in a large bowl. Place the bowl on top of a large pot about ⅓ full of water. Bring the water to a boil. Heat the oils until fully melted and blended, stirring occasionally. While the oils are melting, weigh out the lye and water in two separate bowls. Slowly add the lye to the water while gently stirring until the lye is fully dissolved and the liquid is clear. After the oils are melted, add the colloidal oatmeal and blend until fully combined with no clumps. Let the oils and lye mixture both cool to 80-90 degrees, ensuring that they are within 10 degrees of each other. Place the immersion blender into the oils, tapping it on the bottom of the bowl to release any air bubbles. Slowly and gently pour the lye water into the oil mixture. Pouring down the side of the bowl or down the shaft of the immersion blender can reduce the chance of splashing. Pulse the blender a few times, watching as the oils and lye start to combine. Switch between short pulses and stirring with the blender until the mixture comes together to a light trace. Add the yogurt and blend to combine, reaching a light to medium trace. Working quickly, stir (do not blend) in the essential oil blend. Once the soap reaches about a medium trace, pour it into the mold, scraping the bowl to ensure no soap is left behind. Tap the mold on the table or counter to release any trapped air bubbles. Sprinkle the rolled oats on top of the soap loaf and very lightly press with a spoon to encourage adhesion. Place the mold in the refrigerator for at least 3 hours and up to overnight to help avoid overheating. Remove from the refrigerator and allow the soap to sit in the mold for 48-72 hours at room temperature. Unmold the soap, cut it into bars, and allow it to cure for 4-6 weeks. You may also enjoy... Spearmint: Product Highlight Courage Blend: Meet the Ingredients Fresh Start Rejuvenating Facial Soap Christmas Cottage Cold Process Soap
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Spearmint: Product Highlight
Plant Details Spearmint (Mentha spicata), also referred to as garden mint, lamb mint, and common mint, is a perennial herb in the Lamiaceae family. It is native to areas across Europe and Asia and has become naturalized in temperate regions of North America, South America, the Mediterranean, and southern Africa. Spearmint grows from twelve to forty inches tall and has square stems characteristic of the minty family which can be smooth or have fine hairs. Spearmint leaves are bright green and oblong, narrowing to a pointed tip. The name ‘spearmint’ derives from the pointed leaf tips which resemble spearheads. Spearmint leaves are generally two to three and a half inches long and a half inch to one inch broad, with serrated edges. The flowers of the Spearmint plants bloom in summer, growing in clusters on slender, two to four inch spikes. The flowers are small, only a few millimeters across, and can range in color from white to light pink or purple. Spearmint can grow in conditions from shade to full sun but flourishes in partial shade with moist and adequately draining soil. History The common name ‘Spearmint’ comes from the spear-like shape of the plant's leaves while the scientific name ‘spicata’ means “bearing a spike” which refers to the plant's flower spikes. Spearmint has been used for centuries for its digestive benefits and it was often served alongside or after meals to combat stomach upset, nausea, gas, and bloating. The herb was also used in Ayurvedic medicine for the same purpose as well as being utilized to help soothe skin issues and to ease the pain of headaches. Spearmint has been described in history as early as the first century CE, with mentions of the herb in the Christian bible and other ancient mythological texts. Swedish biologist Carl Linnaeus was the first to scientifically describe the Spearmint species in the eighteenth century. Early versions of toothpaste from the fourteenth-century feature mint flavoring, suggesting widespread domestication of Spearmint had been established by that time. In Greece, Spearmint was used to scent bath water and was seen as an aphrodisiac. Spearmint was brought to England by Romans in the fifth century and there its medicinal properties finally became more well-known. It began to be used to relieve nausea, vomiting, and other stomach upsets as well as being utilized to soothe respiratory issues, including symptoms of the common cold. William Turner, a botanist known as the "Father of British Botany" mentions Spearmint as being good for stomach ailments. English herbalist John Gerard writes of Spearmint in his 1597 Herbal, stating that it is “ good against watering eyes and all manner of break outs on the head and sores.” and that "They lay it on the stinging of wasps and bees with good success." Of the aroma of Spearmint Gerard says "the smell rejoices the heart of man", for which reason they used to strew it in chambers and places … where feasts and banquets are made." During the American Revolution, Spearmint is documented as an important cash crop in Connecticut. Mint tea was a popular drink during this time due to it not being taxed like other teas. Extraction Spearmint is harvested just before the plant begins flowering or just as the flowers begin to open when the essential oil content is at its maximum. Plants can be harvested two to three times each season in good growing conditions. Harvest ideally takes place in the morning on a sunny and dry day before the Spearmint plants begin to wilt in the sunny. Spearmint plants are cut one to inches above ground level, either by hand with shears or mechanically with hay mowers or sickle bar mowers. After cutting, the plant material is gathered in bunches. Some producers will then load the fresh Spearmint into machinery to be chopped and then transfer it to a mobile still to be distilled in the field. In other instances, the Spearmint will be placed in a warm shaded area to dry for a day before being transported to the distillation facility. Spearmint Essential Oil is extracted from the leaves and flowering tops of the plant through steam distillation. The resulting essential oil is thin and colorless to pale yellow in color, with a fresh, sweet, and herbaceous minty aroma. Benefits & Uses When used in aromatherapy, the refreshing and invigorating aroma of Spearmint Essential Oil is known as a beacon of rejuvenation. It has been found to soothe feelings of stress and anxiety, offering respite from mental fatigue and tension. Spearmint is believed to evoke a sense of clarity and tranquility, promoting relaxation and overall well-being. It is known to relax the brain and body, helping to relieve headaches, reduce symptoms of illness, and ease feelings of negativity. Spearmint Essential Oil has been found to enhance concentration and memory retention when diffused during work or study, and its revitalizing properties may help uplift the mood and bring emotions into balance. Diluted and used topically, Spearmint Essential Oil is thought to possess cleansing and anti-inflammatory properties, making it a formidable force against skin concerns. It has been found to combat acne, reduce redness, and soothe blemishes. The cooling sensation of Spearmint Essential Oil may help ease discomfort in irritated skin and leave the skin feeling refreshed and revitalized. Antioxidant properties may make Spearmint useful in reducing the appearance of wrinkles and skin imperfections, including discoloration, promoting a more youthful complexion. Spearmint Essential Oil is believed to support healthy skin cell regeneration, enhancing skin resilience and improving elasticity over time. It is also thought to serve as an ideal skin cleanser, helping to unclog pores and imparting a cooling sensation that relieves itching associated with dryness and leaves the skin feeling cool and refreshed. Spearmint is believed to provide relief from aches, pains, and muscle spasms while also working to alleviate fever, fatigue, inflammation, and other symptoms of illness. Spearmint Essential Oil is known to support healthy digestive functions and has been recognized for easing the discomfort of menstrual issues like abdominal pain and cramping. Spearmint Essential Oil may assist in treating Varroa mites when used in the keeping of honeybees. It may also be used to mask scents while not mimicking any of the honeybee’s pheromones, working to deter predator species and protect the hive. Spearmint is often used in combination with lemon grass oil during feeding to help improve overall hive health. Here are some recipes using Spearmint Essential Oil that we love... Breath of Fresh Air Diffuser Blend 3 drops of Spearmint Essential Oil 3 drops of Peppermint Essential Oil 2 drops of Eucalyptus Essential Oil 2 drops of Lavender Essential Oil Diffuser Instructions Add water to the diffuser up to the fill line. Add drops of the essential oil blend. This diffuser blend recipe is formulated for a 200ml ultrasonic diffuser. Adjust the amount according to the size and directions of the diffuser. Minty Blossom Calming Facial Toner Ingredients 4oz Amber Glass Bottle 2 oz of Witch Hazel Extract 1 oz of Distilled Water ½ oz of Sweet Almond Oil 20 drops of Spearmint Essential Oil 20 drops of Geranium Essential Oil 10 drops of Chamomile Essential Oil Instructions Mix all ingredients in a 4 oz glass amber bottle and shake well to combine. To use, soak a cotton round with the toner and then gently rub it over the face and neck. Shake well before each use. Store in a cool dark place for extended shelf life. Beacon of Rejuvenation Uplifting Room Spray Ingredients 4 oz Amber Glass Bottle with Spray Top 2 oz of High Percentage Alcohol 2 oz of Witch Hazel Extract 30 drops of Spearmint Essential Oil 20 drops of Grapefruit Essential Oil 20 drops of Rosemary Essential Oil 10 drops of Bergamot Essential Oil Instructions Add 2 oz of high-percentage alcohol to the bottle. Add the essential oils and fill the remainder of the bottle with witch hazel, leaving a little space at the top. Shake well before each use. Spray all around the home. Cool & Calm Massage Oil Ingredients 4oz Amber Glass Bottle 2oz of Fractionated Coconut Oil 1oz of Sweet Almond Oil 1/2oz of Jojoba Oil 20 drops of Spearmint Essential Oil 20 drops of Lavender Essential Oil 10 drops of Black Pepper Essential Oil Instructions Add all ingredients to a 4-ounce amber glass bottle and shake vigorously to combine. Pour a small amount into the hands and gently massage into the desired area. Healthy Hive Beekeeping Essential Oil Syrup Ingredients: 5 cups of Water 2 ½ pounds of Sugar 1/8 teaspoon of Lecithin Granules 15 drops of Spearmint Essential Oil 15 drops of Lemongrass Essential Oil Instructions Bring the water to a boil and add the sugar, stirring until the sugar is completely dissolved. Remove it from heat and quickly add lecithin and essential oils. Stir the mixture until everything is combined. The mixture can also be added to a blender as the lecithin granules can sometimes be difficult to incorporate. Cool completely before use. Do not leave the mixture open around bees. To use, add 1 teaspoon per quart of 1:1 sugar syrup to stimulate brood rearing, pollen collection, and early spring development. Add 2 teaspoons per quart of 1:1 sugar syrup to improve health or to help against cases of dysentery, chalkbrood, and other stress problems. Add 4 teaspoons per quart of 1:1 sugar syrup when introducing new queens. You will likely need to drizzle this over the bees, or they won’t eat it on their own. You may also enjoy... Nutmeg: Product Highlight Oregano: Product Highlight Courage Blend: Meet the Ingredients Essential Oils & Crystals: Carnelian
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Essential Oils & Crystals: Carnelian
Carnelian is believed to be a stone of creativity and energy, helping to invigorate the body and inspire the mind. It has been found to banish negative thoughts and clarify our perception, helping us restore feelings of motivation and self-trust when we may feel lost and unsure. Carnelian is known to improve cognitive abilities and combat mental fatigue which may help to sharpen focus and support the flow of creativity. It is thought to fill our minds with positive energy and inspiration, fueling our creative projects and encouraging us to think outside the box in all areas of life. Carnelian may help us to reject self-doubt and encourage confidence, giving us the space to embrace our inner child and enjoy moments of silliness and spontaneity. Essential oils, like crystals, have long been used to support the health and wellness of our minds, bodies, and spirits. Pairing crystals with essential oils that complement their beneficial properties can help to amplify the effects of both elements. Here are a few of our favorite essential oils to use alongside Carnelian… Wintergreen Essential Oil is known to ease stress and allow us to enjoy a state of peace when paired with Carnelian. It has been found to balance emotions while boosting the mood and helping to increase feelings of creativity and courage. Wintergreen may also help to increase mental energy while improving concentration and strengthening perception. Tangerine Essential Oil has been found to supply a burst of creative energy when used in tandem with Carnelian. It may enhance concentration and memory while also working to increase energy and avoid mental exhaustion. Tangerine is thought to ease feelings of stress and tension and encourage positive feelings and an uplifted and motivated state of mind. Clary Sage Essential Oil is believed to encourage an enhanced state of awareness and focus when used alongside Carnelian. It has been found to improve concentration and boost mental stamina while also encouraging feelings of motivation and confidence. Clary Sage may help to ease stress and anxiety to prevent the onset of negative moods and bring about a sense of mental peace. How to use essential oils with Carnelian: Flow of Creativity Inspiring Roll On Ingredients 10 ml Amber Glass Roll-On Bottle 1 Small Carnelian Crystal 1/3 oz of Fractionated Coconut Oil 5 drops of Wintergreen Essential Oil 5 drops of Tangerine Essential Oil Instructions Add a small piece of carnelian to the bottle. Add the essential oils and fill the rest of the bottle to the top with fractionated coconut oil. Replace the rollerball and cap, gently shake, and roll across your skin when you need a creative boost. Fire Inside Energizing Massage Oil Ingredients 2 oz Amber Glass Bottle with Dropper Top 1 oz of Sweet Almond Oil 1/2 oz of Jojoba Oil 1 Small Carnelian Crystal 30 drops of Clary Sage Essential Oil 10 drops of Wintergreen Essential Oil 10 drops of Tangerine Essential Oil Instructions Add all ingredients to the amber glass bottle and shake vigorously to combine. Add several drops to your hands and massage into muscles in the morning to encourage energy throughout the day. You may also enjoy… Essential Oils & Crystals: Aquamarine Essential Oils & Crystals: Lapis Lazuli Clary Sage: Product Highlight Nutcracker Blend: Meet the Ingredients
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