Beginners Guide to

Essential Oils:
Integrating Essential Oils with Nutritional Therapy

1
 Introduction
Essential oils are the natural, highly concentrated This shared chemistry makes essential oils one of
essences extracted from specific shrubs, flowers, the most compatible of all plant substances with
grasses, fruits, bushes, seeds, roots, trees for their human biochemistry. Essential oils are also lipid-
healing capabilities. soluble with a protein-like structure similar to human
cells, making them even more compatible with
Essential Oils provide key components of the plants human cells and tissues.
immune systems. They help the plants grow, thrive,
evolve, and adapt to surroundings. For example, Since essential oils are bio-familiar to humans, they
they protect plants from bacterial and viral infections, can also help balance and support the human body
heal injuries, repel unwanted insects, prevent water to heal itself. Research has shown that essential oils
loss and other environmental damage, play a role in help us fight infection (with anti-bacterial, anti-fungal
plant pollination and deliver oxygen and nutrients and anti-viral properties), balance hormones and
into the cells. This is why they are essential for a emotions and aid in regeneration. Essential oils also
plant -- without them, plants could not survive. help the brain, reviving a tired mind and stimulating
memory. Different fragrances of essential oils will
In the human body, they play a similar role -- relax, revitalize or renew your mind, body and soul.
transporting valuable nutrients to the cells,
increasing oxygen intake, and digesting toxic waste Highly concentrated essential oils are also extremely
in the blood. This is because the three primary potent. A drop or two can produce significant results
elements - carbon, hydrogen and oxygen - are because an entire plant, when distilled, might
common to both human beings and essential oils. produce only a single drop of essential oil. They are
approximately 75-100 times more concentrated, and
consequently far more potent, than dried herbs.

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 Essential Oils for Nutritional Therapy
Vibrant Blue Oils was founded Benefits of essential oils for nutri-
by nutritional therapy practition- tional therapy:
ers who observed that certain
lifestyle challenges -- sleep is- Inner Brain Stimulation: The aroma
sues, constant stress, anxiety, from essential oils stimulates the olfac-
depression and exhaustion -- tory nerves (nerve sensors for smell)
impeded the bodys ability to which reach the inner brain through
heal. In our exploration of non- nasal pathways. Nerve fibers run from
invasive, natural solutions to the olfactory membrane into the inner
those conditions we stumbled brain the hypothalamus which
upon therapeutic grade essen- contains the important, self-regulatory
tial oils and were overwhelmed centers that regulate warmth, waking,
by how effectively they alleviat- sleeping, blood pressure, breathing,
ed emotional, hormonal, diges- digestion, elimination and fat and water
tive, immune, detoxification and metabolism. Most importantly, plant
nervous system challenges. hormones from essential oils have an
amazing effect human hormones, es-
How Do Essential Oils Work? pecially on the functioning of the pitui-
tary gland, the master regulator of all
Essential oils contain many
hormones.
natural chemical constituents
that have been documented to
2. Nervous System: Research re-
therapeutically affect ALL the
vealed that applying essential oils to
inner workings of the human
the skin can stimulate the nerve endings in the skin
body. They can calm and sedate the nervous system,
which connect to the vast inner network of the sympa-
effectively reducing stress, anxiety and depression,
thetic and parasympathetic nervous systems of the
improving sleep, mood, energy, brain function and
body. By traveling from the skin surface inward to the
strengthening the bodys immune system and detoxifi-
deeper body systems, these precious oils can help
cation capabilities.
balance the functioning of the nervous system.
As the essential oils are inhaled or applied topically,
3. Hormone Activation and Blood Circulation: Re-
they enter the bloodstream quickly and exert measur-
search also showed that essential oils, with their plant
able effects, including a 21% increase in oxygen lev-
hormones, can be absorbed by the body and function
els which helps to effectively transport nutrients to the
as hormone precursors that can activate our own hor-
cells of the body and to increase available cell oxy-
mones. In addition, plant hormones absorbed through
gen. Many types of infectious organisms can live only
the skin can enter the blood circulation, improving it
in low-oxygen environments. By increasing cellular
and the blood chemistry.
oxygen, essential oils may help to create an environ-
ment in which pathogenic (disease-causing) bacteria,
viruses, fungi and parasites cannot survive. Essential oils can serve as a powerful bridge to am-
plify the success of nutritional protocols and with it,
When applied topically, the lipid soluble essential oil your clients vibrant health.
molecules penetrate the fatty layers of the skin into
the blood circulation, creating a profound effect on the
whole body.
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 Vibrant Blue: Created by Practitioners for Practitioners
Vibrant Blue Oils is the only essential oil products designed
by and for nutritional therapy practitioners. Instead of rely-
ing on myth and lore, we are actively assessing our clients
and ensuring that our blends shift the body towards healing.
We know that essential oils have a powerful effect on the
body. That means that therapeutic blends have the capacity
to help, and potentially stress, the body. This is because es-
sential oils are powerful medicines and like any medicine,
they can cause damage when used incorrectly.
With this in mind, Vibrant Blue Oils is committed to continu-
ally testing, refining and developing new blends for optimal
healing with minimal downside. We are also committed to
provide ongoing nutritional training to support practitioners
in their use of essential oils for vibrant health.

For example, we have discovered that oils work so effective-

ly that they often are not required for long term use. A blend
can work perfectly for a client for several months, but as the
clients health continues to shift and improve, the old blend
gradually ceases to yield the same beneficial results. For
this reason, it is important to retest and switch up oils fairly
regularly.

This understanding drove our decision to market our blends

in 5 ml bottles, which has been known to provide the optimal
dosage necessary for a shift. Some clients will see amazing
results from a favorite blend for years, while others will shift
every few months. The 5 ml bottles provide practitioners
with the optimal ability to shift oils frequently with minimum
financial hardship to clients.

Vibrant Blue Oil blends have been created with the intention of bringing the body into bal-
ance so clients can heal. In many ways, blends are more powerful than single oils. They
Essential Oils Blends

are created when several single essential oils have been synergistically combined to cre-
ate something that is greater than the sum of its parts.
The combination yields not only the power of the combined chemical constituents and fre-
quencies, but also the synergy of how they interact together. This means that the respec-
tive powers of the individual oils change to enhance their energy. For example, the anti-
inflammatory effects of chamomile are increased when combined with lavender.
Many practitioners report the experience of seeing the clients body completely shift after
applying the blends. We are both excited and encouraged by the potential of essential oil
blends to dramatically assist in challenging areas of our practices and are committed to
ongoing research and product development in that area.

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 History of
Essential Oils

Throughout history, the essential oils of plants More recently, the powerful healing properties of
were used in many cultures for their medicinal essential oils were rediscovered in 1937 by a
and therapeutic benefits. The Egyptians were French chemist, Rene-Maurice Gattefosse, who
renown for using essential oils extensively in plunged his badly burnt hand into a vat of laven-
medical practice, beauty treatment, food prepa- der oil (mistaking it for water) and was surprised
ration, and in religious ceremony. Frankincense, to see no injury or scarring. A French contem-
sandalwood, myrrh and cinnamon were consid- porary, Dr. Jean Valnet, used therapeutic-grade
ered very valuable cargo along the ancient essential oils to successfully treat injured sol-
caravan trade routes and were some- diers during World War II. Dr. Valnet went on to
times exchanged for gold. become a world leader in the development of
aromatherapy practices.
Borrowing from the Egyptians, the Greeks
used essential oils in their practices of With the invention of synthetic drugs, the use of
therapeutic massage and aromatherapy. plants & herbs for their therapeutic properties
The Romans also used essential oils to promote temporarily declined. That trend is reversing as
health and personal hygiene. Influenced by the health scientists and medical practitioners con-
Greeks and Romans, as well as Chinese and tinue to research and validate the benefits of
Indian Ayurvedic use of aromatic herbs, the Per- therapeutic-grade essential oils to protect the
sians began to refine distillation methods for ex- body, boost the immune system, and revitalize
tracting essential oils from aromatic plants. Es- the mind and influence mood, without the nega-
sential oil extracts were used throughout the tive side effects commonly associated with syn-
dark ages in Europe for their anti-bacterial and thetic drugs.
fragrant properties.
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 Chemistry of the Oils
The therapeutic benefits of the oil are often related
to the compound(s) at the highest amount in the oil.
In general, essential oils can be subdivided into two
distinct groups of chemical constituents:

1. Hydrocarbons
Made of terpenes which inhibit the accumulation of
toxins and help discharge existing toxins from the
liver and kidneys. Key terpenes include:
Monoterpenes (Found in Grapefruit, Orange,
and Balsam Fir) Inhibit the accumulation of tox-
ins, detoxify kidneys and liver, enhance bal-
ance, restore information in DNA.
Sesquiterpenes (Found in Cedarwood, Sandal-
wood and Myrrh) Antiseptic, anti-inflammatory,
The chemical profile of an essential oil determines
stimulate liver, increase oxygenation around the
its viscosity, volatility and medicinal properties.
pineal and pituitary glands, can surpass the
blood-brain barrier and enter the brain tissue.
The molecular structure of essential oils are ring
like and far more complex than the simpler, linear
2. Oxygenated compounds
carbon-hydrogen structure of fatty
oils. The essential oil chains are
Alcohols (found in Ravensara, Rosewood, Gera-
held together by carbon atoms linked
nium) Uplifting, high resistance to oxidation,
with oxygen and hydrogen, along with
antiseptic, antiviral, revert cells to normal func-
nitrogen and sulfur atoms (which are
tion.
not found in other non-essential plant
Aldehydes (found in Cinnamon Bark,
oils).
Lemongrass) - Calming, relieve stress and
blood pressure, sedative, antiviral, anti-
No two essential oils are alike in their
inflammatory.
structure and each oil is comprised of
Esters (found in Lavender, Bergamot, Valerian
a combination of hundreds - even thousands - of
and Roman Chamomile) - Balancing, relaxing
different natural chemicals. The average essential
and calming, antifungal, anti-inflammatory and
oil may contain anywhere from 80 to 400 known
antispasmodic.
chemical constituents, making them ideal for kill-
Ketones (found in Hyssop, Patchouli Rosemary,
ing and preventing the spread of bacteria.
Sage) - Calming, sedative, stimulate cell and
tissue regeneration, liquefy mucous.
While synthetic antibiotics often contain only
one active chemical allowing bacteria (like Oxides (Found in Ravensara, Rosemary and
MRSA) to mutate to survive the attack, the Eucalyptus) derived from other compounds
large and varied number of antiseptic and such as alcohols, terpenes or ketones which
antibacterial constituents in essential oils have been oxidized. Can be mildly stimulating.
make it impossible for bacteria to mutate Phenols (found in Oregano, Thyme Clove and
enough to survive each and every one. This Tea Tree) - Stimulating to the nervous and immune
is what makes essential oils such effective,
systems, highly antibacterial/antimicrobial antioxi-
natural antibiotics. dant, clean cell receptor sites.

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 Methods of Extraction
The few exceptions are hydro distilled, cold pressed,
and absolute extraction.
Steam Distilled: The most common method of ex-
tracting an essential oil from the plant is through
steam distillation. Low temperature and low pressure
play an important role in collecting the highest quali-
ty essential oil. The plant is placed in a chamber and
steam is circulated under pressure through plant ma-
terial releasing the essential oils into the steam. The
steam and essential oil are then carried out of the
chamber and cooled. As the steam mixture cools,
the water and oils naturally separate and the oil is
collected in its pure form. Several factors contribute
to the quality of oil including temperature and pres-
sure -- Too little heat and pressure will not release
valuable oil while too much can diminish the oils
composition, potency and therapeutic potential
time distilled and materials used to construct the
steam chamber .
The chemistry and therapeutic potential of essential Hydro Distilled: The plant is distilled using water
oils are a direct result of how they are grown, har- rather than steam. The plant matter is placed in a
vested and processed. To ensure optimal quality, chamber filled with water, which is then heated until
essential oils need to be grown and harvested from the oil is released. This extraction process produces
the ideal soil, carefully extracted at the perfect mo- a superior quality essential oil, but it also is quite a
ment by experienced growers. bit more labor intensive and therefore more expen-
sive.
We strive to find the highest quality essential oils
from around the world and work with small farms Cold Pressed: When essential oil is pressed from
that grow the plants organically and then distill them the plant. This is the most common method of ex-
properly (low temperature and no/low pressure). A traction for citrus oils (Tangerines, Grapefruits, Lem-
plant grown in the "proper" part of the world will pro- ons and Oranges). The peel of the citrus plant is
duce an oil of superior quality. Our essential oils are pressed and the essential oil is then filtered from the
either certified organic, organically grown (grown plant matter. While this method uses no heat and
organically but not certified, some countries do not therefore produces a superior quality essential oil,
offer this certification), or wild (grown by nature). We there are a few drawbacks to this extraction method,
intentionally use only organically grown crops as tox- including residue of waxes and peel in the oil.
ic pesticide residues can become highly concentrat-
ed in the oils. Absolute: This method uses a solvent or chemical
to extract the oil. Once the oil is extracted, the chem-
Other important factors that influence the quality of ical is then removed from the oil. Oils extracted as
oils include the time between harvesting and distilla- an absolute will always have some of the chemical
tion, distillation equipment, temperature, pressure, remaining. A high quality absolute will have less than
and when to stop distillation in order to avoid expos- 1% of solvent remaining. Some plants, like Jasmine
ing the oils to excessive heat, thus destroying vital for example, will only give up their oil using this ex-
constituents. Almost all of our oils are distilled using traction process. Therefore there is no such thing as
low temperature and low pressure steam distillation. Jasmine essential oil but there is Jasmine absolute.
7
 How To Use Essential Oils

Essential oils can be absorbed into the body via:

Inhalation: Our sense of smell influences many physiological pathways including the stimulation of hor-
mones and other metabolic processes. When an essential oil is inhaled, it enters the nose, moves to the
lining of the lungs, where it is then absorbed into the bloodstream within seconds. Research has shown
that aromatic compounds exert strong effects on the brain, especially on the hypothalamus (the hormone
command center of the body) and the limbic system (the seat of emotions). Some essential oils can dra-
matically increase oxygenation and activity in the brain.
Topical Application: Due to their natural molecular composition, essential oils are easily absorbed by the
skin and can be safely applied topically. When applied to the skin, essential oils quickly penetrate into the
pores, moving rapidly through the cells into the bloodstream for internal benefit throughout the body. For
example, an essential oil placed on the foot will be distributed to every cell in the body in 21 minutes. They
will even penetrate a finger or toe nail to treat fungus underneath. This also means that topical application
of essential oils can have immediate, localized benefit to the target area of application. They can also be
administered through the absorbent tissues of the body orifices (suppositories or orally enemas). The long-
er essential oils stay in contact with the skin, the more likely they are to be absorbed, so don't wash them
off too soon.
Ingestion: We do not recommend ingesting essential oils as they usually do not make it through the di-
gestive track to the area you are trying to treat. We have found topical applications to be more effective.
For example, oils touted for internal use of digestive distress, like peppermint oil, can also produce the
same results when massaged on the stomach. Another internal option would be to place a drop of essen-
tial oil on the inside of the cheek which allows the oils to be absorbed directly into the bloodstream. While
many essential oils are generally regarded as safe for dietary use, some oils should not be taken internally.
Do not use an essential oil internally if it does not list appropriate dietary supplement facts on its label.

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 Application and Dosage
Essential oils are highly concentrated in their pure
and unadulterated form making them very potent.
In other words, a little (1-2 drops) can go a long way
toward providing beneficial and effective results.

The bottom of the feet are one of the safest and

most effective spots on the body for applying essen-
tial oils (especially when working with anyone with
young children or anyone suffering from compro-
mised health). The thick skin on the soles of our
feet are unlikely to produce skin irritations. This
makes the feet a great place to apply some of the
hotter oils and anti-infectious blends. Also, the
numerous nerve endings on the soles of the feet
can help carry the oils into the bloodstream very
quickly. If you want to try it out, rub a clove of garlic
on the bottom of your foot. Within 15 minutes, your
breath will smell of garlic. Dilution
Because essential oils are highly concentrated, it is
To treat a specific area like a sore muscle, rash, burn often recommended that they be diluted with a car-
or wound, apply the oils directly on the problem spot. rier oil -- a cold-pressed vegetable, nut, or seed oil -
Other good areas for applying oils are the base of the - especially for young children.
throat, inside elbows and knees, and the nape of the
neck. Carrier oils allow for more controlled absorption into
the skin as essential oils are volatile and can
The scalp is another good area for applying essential evaporate quickly. Dilution with carrier oils also
oils because the size of the hair follicle is much larger help maintain the scent of an essential oil for a
than the pores in the skin. Rubbing oils on the scalp longer duration of time and allows the use of a
allows easy access for the essential oil. The essential small amount of essential oil across a large surface
oils can also soothe or stimulate the scalp. The act of of skin. It also lessens the intensity of "hot" oils. In
massaging the scalp promotes the removal of toxins their natural form, essential oils can be very potent.
and can alleviate stress by slowing mental activity.
Many prepared blends, like Vibrant Blue Oil blends,
Essential oils should last between 12 - 24 hours in the have already mixed with a carrier oil. For almost all
body, Certain factors, such as viscosity, concentra- people these oils are ready to use straight from the
tion, application method (topical or inhalation), skin bottle. For single oils, especially hot oils like cinna-
type and the area of the body where the oils were ap- mon, clove or peppermint oil, use 1 or 2 drops of
plied, can extend or diminish the therapeutic duration. essential oil with a small amount (1/4 teaspoon) of
In addition, the condition of the skin affects the degree carrier oil. Some good carrier oils include:
to which oils are absorbed. For example, a hot bath Almond Oil
hydrates the skin making it more permeable for the Jojoba Oil
oils. In addition, dry, cracked or damaged skin can Olive Oil
also be more permeable, so essential oils should be Grapeseed Oil
applied cautiously. Avocado Oil
Coconut Oil
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 How to Dispense Essential Oils
Essential oils are best dispensed by holding the bottle of
oil 1 to 4 inches above the fingers or palm of the other
hand. Tip it over and wait for the oil to drip out. Some
oils, like the Vibrant Blue Oil Calm and Sleep blends flow
very quickly, while others are thicker and require a gen-
tle shake. If possible, avoid touching the center of the
drop dispenser -- let the oil drip from the edge freely.

If an essential oil feels too hot or causes any redness,

put a carrier oil, like olive or coconut oil on top of the es-
sential oil. The carrier oil will dilute the essential oil and
cause slower absorption. This will also diminish or stop
the irritation while continuing to provide the therapeutic
benefits of the oil. After you have applied enough
carrier oil to stop the reaction, you can then use soap
and water to wash it all off. Water does not work as
well initially for an essential oil reaction as it traps the
oil against the skin and can increase irritation.

Storage and care

Essential Oils are called volatile, which means that
they evaporate very quickly. Because of their volatile
nature, they need to be kept in dark colored, prefera-
bly blue glass bottles (to protect them from ultra violet
light) with airtight seals and away from heat, prefera-
bly in a cool dark space. The airtight seal prevents
oxidation and keeps the volatile components of the
essential oils in the bottle, thereby retaining their tradi-
tional healing properties.

Essential Oils do not come with an expiration date,

but optimum shelf life is approximately two years. Af-
ter this time they lose some of their potency. Citrus
oils (orange, lemon, lime, etc.) tend to degrade most
quickly (six month shelf life). However, some essen-
tial oils, such as Rose, Jasmine, Eucalyptus Globulus,
Patchouli and Cypress actually become more potent
with age.

Some essential oils' scents will change regardless of

how they are stored. The scents do not go bad or turn
rancid they simply lose their subtlety. Although some
choose to refrigerate their oils, this is not necessary
(except rose) and can be disadvantageous because
some essential oils are solid at low temperatures.

10
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