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Oily skin is just that - oily! Your face is almost always shiny, especially around the T-zone (forehead, nose and chin). You'll have visible, enlarged pores particularly around your nose and may be prone to blemishes. 

Healthy skin is kept supple , lubricated and maintains a protective barrier  by producing natural oils called sebum in the skin’s sebaceous glands.  As we age these sebaceous glands gradually reduce their production of this skin nurturing oil.  This leads to drier skin, fine lines and more sensitisation.

Essential Oil Dilutions - How to Use Essential Oils Safely on Your Skin Using essential oils on your skin effectively and safely isn’t difficult but it can be a little confusing. So we've put together this handy guide to using essential oils on your body. Never use undiluted essential oil on your skin First things first - ALWAYS dilute essential oils when applying them to your skin or scalp.  Undiluted essential oil on the skin can potentially cause sensitisation and severe skin reactions in susceptible people. I have known of clients who have splashed lavender essential oil around like it was a cologne only to find that at some point in time their skin starts to react, becoming sensitized or developing eczema like rashes. I have a personal theory that we all have a lifetime limit or threshold for different substances in our lives.  Once that limit has been reached then sensitisation occurs on every subsequent exposure. Download Your Essential Oil Dilution Guide For this reason I prefer to err on the side of caution and recommend that essential oils are diluted when applied to the skin. We have written a simple essential oil dilution guide for skin applications.  Click here to get your copy Warmest regards, Leonie - moonhaven's aromatherapist, founder & creator of good things CHECK OUT OUR MOST POPULAR CONTENT What is your Skin Type? Take Our Skin-Type Test Get a Good Night's Sleep - Naturally 5 Mistakes to Avoid When Washing Your Face Essential Oil Dilutions - How to Use Oils Safely on Your Skin 10 Top Essential Oils for Women Dealing with Arthritis & Body Pain - Naturally Universal Herbal Ointment - Our First Aid Kit in a Jar The Moon Haven Story Get offers, sales and all the latest from moon haven in your inbox Join The MoonHaven Family Do you have a question? ... Want to know more? Just click the "Chat with us" button in the right hand corner of this page to ask a question or get more information - if we're logged in you may even get an answer straight away...otherwise we'll get back to you as soon as we are back online.. Always seek qualified medical advice regarding your own individual situation Please note: Information in this article and on the moonhaven.com.au website represents the opinion of the author and as such is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice and should not be relied on as health or personal advice. Always seek the guidance of your doctor or other qualified health professional with any questions you may have regarding your health or a medical condition.

10 Top Essential Oils for Women Supporting women's life journey through the use of essential oils I am constantly amazed at how essential oils can support every one of us as we progress through life. Traditionally the following oils have been used to help women on a daily basis as they face life's ups and downs: Clary Sage Essential Oil Clary sage has long been a favourite when dealing with women’s issues. Not only has it been traditionally used for its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects, it’s also wonderful for a number of women’s health issues. It’s even considered by some to be an aphrodisiac. Lemon Essential Oil This sunny energising oil is wonderful to help with uplifting the mood and adding a little boost to energy levels. Peppermint Essential Oil Cooling effects soothe the digestive tract, helps eliminate sensations of nausea, provides a natural energy boost, relaxes muscles, relieves headaches, helps with acne, reduces bloating, and eliminates bad breath. Rose Absolute - 3% in Jojoba Oil Mood uplifter, promotes self-love and self-care, soothing, good for skin health, balances hormones, and increases sex drive. Lavender Essential Oil Promotes relaxation and sound sleep, reduces anxiety, good for skin health (acne and wounds), alleviates headaches, and improves mood. Rose Geranium Pure Essential Oil Reduces inflammation, reduces anxiety, balances hormones, increases energy, and lifts mood. Bergamot Essential Oil Improves circulation, increases energy, relieves depression, balances hormones, reduces pain and headaches, helps with insomnia, and aids healthy digestion. Frankincense Essential Oil Helps the body deal with stress and anxiety, reduces pain and inflammation, and helps with acne. Also a powerful energy + space protector. Sweet Orange Essential Oil Helps relieve motion sickness, anti-inflammatory, and anti-depressant. Ylang Ylang Essential Oil Helps with increasing libido, lowering stress levels, lifting mood and can assist with lowering high blood pressure. 10 Top Essential Oils Clary Sage Essential Oil Lemon Essential Oil Peppermint Essential Oil Rose Absolute - 3% in Jojoba Oil Lavender Essential Oil Rose Geranium Essential Oil Bergamot Essential Oil Frankincense Essential Oil Sweet Orange Essential Oil Ylang Ylang Essential Oil Feminine Balance Trio Essential Oil Pack With all these beautiful oils to choose from we decided that three oils were the must haves for Feminine Balance. Clary Sage was always going to be the hero of our balance trio.   After all it is the "goto" women's essential oil - noted for its hormonal regulating and emotional balancing properties. Admittedly it can be a bit overwhelming when diffused on its own - I always prefer it in a blend.  That's why we added in our 2 most feminine and floral oils  - Ylang Ylang and Rose Absolute  - 3% dilution. Clary Sage can be combined with either oil or both.   Play with the proportions, add in a little Lavender Essential oil to meld the scents together or add a citrus to lighten the mood. The opportunities to create your own personal balancing blend that suits just you, are endless. Together these 3 oils pack a powerful punch.  Play with the proportions, add in a little Lavender Essential oil to meld the scents together or add a citrus to lighten the mood. The opportunities to create your own personal balancing blend that suits just you, are endless. Together these 3 oils pack a powerful punch. Warmest regards, Leonie - moonhaven's aromatherapist, founder & creator of good things CHECK OUT OUR MOST POPULAR CONTENT What is your Skin Type? Take Our Skin-Type Test Get a Good Night's Sleep - Naturally 5 Mistakes to Avoid When Washing Your Face Essential Oil Dilutions - How to Use Oils Safely on Your Skin 10 Top Essential Oils for Women Dealing with Arthritis & Body Pain - Naturally Universal Herbal Ointment - Our First Aid Kit in a Jar The Moon Haven Story Get offers, sales and all the latest from moon haven in your inbox Join The MoonHaven Family Do you have a question? ... Want to know more? Just click the "Chat with us" button in the right hand corner of this page to ask a question or get more information - if we're logged in you may even get an answer straight away...otherwise we'll get back to you as soon as we are back online.. Always seek qualified medical advice regarding your own individual situation Please note: Information in this article and on the moonhaven.com.au website represents the opinion of the author and as such is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice and should not be relied on as health or personal advice. Always seek the guidance of your doctor or other qualified health professional with any questions you may have regarding your health or a medical condition.

Universal Herbal Ointment - Our First Aid Kit in a Jar Every household could do with a jar of this amazing all purpose herbal ointment created and made right here at moon haven for 20 plus years.. Many of our moonies have called it a "First Aid Kit in a Jar" and their kids call it "Magic Cream" it's that good. It's fantastic for all of life's little boos boos.  Small cuts, nicks, insect bites even for rashes, colds sores and spots. When my boys were little and getting into all sorts of strife the jar of universal was always on hand... I even carried mine in my handbag for all those little emergencies. Now that I am often out and about camping in the wonderful wild world of the Australian outback a jar of universal can be found in my car, the van and my back pack.. It's that good. We make it by infusing 12 wonderfully helpful herbs in quality sunflower oil and then add 8 essential oils with beautiful organic beeswax, a little lanolin to help with stickiness and voila we have our first aid kit all bundled up in a convenient 30ml jar.   Just remember - A little goes a long, long way. This little pot of healing herbs and essential oils can help with all sorts of skin issues. Just apply a tiny amount to the affected area and gentle smoothed into your skin. We suggest even half a grain of rice worth may be all you need! Apply as needed.   P.S. If you find that the ointment stings then dilute down with any regular cooking oil. Universal Herbal Ointment A soothing antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, anti-viral healing salve for life's bumps and bites helps calm and soothe: -insect bites, cold sores, cuts, small burns, ulcers, eczema, dermatitis, psoriasis, chapped lips.. and so much more A soothing antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, anti-viral healing salve for life's bumps and bites helps calm and soothe: -insect bites, cold sores, cuts, small burns, ulcers, eczema, dermatitis, psoriasis, chapped lips.. and so much more Warmest regards, Leonie - moonhaven's aromatherapist, founder & creator of good things CHECK OUT OUR MOST POPULAR CONTENT What is your Skin Type? Take Our Skin-Type Test Get a Good Night's Sleep - Naturally 5 Mistakes to Avoid When Washing Your Face Essential Oil Dilutions - How to Use Oils Safely on Your Skin 10 Top Essential Oils for Women Dealing with Arthritis & Body Pain - Naturally Universal Herbal Ointment - Our First Aid Kit in a Jar The Moon Haven Story Get offers, sales and all the latest from moon haven in your inbox Join The MoonHaven Family Do you have a question? ... Want to know more? Just click the "Chat with us" button in the right hand corner of this page to ask a question or get more information - if we're logged in you may even get an answer straight away...otherwise we'll get back to you as soon as we are back online.. Always seek qualified medical advice regarding your own individual situation Please note: Information in this article and on the moonhaven.com.au website represents the opinion of the author and as such is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice and should not be relied on as health or personal advice. Always seek the guidance of your doctor or other qualified health professional with any questions you may have regarding your health or a medical condition.

10 Ways to Use Thieves Oil Blend DIY Thieves Oil Recipes and Uses So you’ve heard about the power of essential oils to do everything from helping to clear and clean spaces to deterring silverfish. Friends have swapped stories of how a single blend of oils has been so effective that they’ll use nothing else when it comes to disinfecting their home and protecting their family. More than likely they are referring to an extremely potent blend of essential oils commonly referred to as Thieves Oil. The Origins of Thieves Oil In medieval times, during outbreaks of the black plague…you know the one where you caught a cold and then the chills and fever set in, your lymph nodes enlarged, then burst and finally your fingers and toes turned black with gangrene. You were usually dead with 2 to 7 days of catching it! In the 1300’s the Black Plague decimated Europe, killing up to 60% of the population. With those sorts of statistics you can understand why the plague has been so greatly feared throughout the ages. 4 Thieves Vinegar was believed to protect users from the Black Death Four Thieves Vinegar Back in the time of the Black Death (also known as bubonic plague) when not much was known about its origins and how to combat it,  there was a much praised concoction,  of herbs seeped in vinegar that was said to protect you from contracting this deadly infection. There were a variety of recipes for this apparent miracle protector.  They included herbs like rosemary, wormwood, rosemary, sage, lavender, camphor and of course garlic. The story goes that four thieves created the initial formula to ward off the plague when they robbed the  dying and the dead.  That is why it was widely know as 4 Thieves Vinegar. Thieves Oil Blend Fast forward to the present time and the modern day  version of  four thieves vinegar has become Thieves Essential Oil Blend – and like in times of old, there are numerous recipes and formulations out there to choose from. Moon Haven’s Thieves Blend Oil – A Powerhouse of 6 Essential Oils Our essential oil version of the  4 Thieves Vinegar  actually contains 6 incredibly talented essential oils. We formulated this powerhouse blend with essential oils known for their strong anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, anti-viral and  immunity boosting properties. It is extremely useful around the house and even carried with you for those emergency situations. Thieves Essential Oil Blend DEFEND AND PROTECT Your Price: : 100% NO-RISK MONEY BACK GUARANTEE DIY Thieves Oil Recipe Of course if you would like to make your own blend, here is a simple 5 oil blend that you can make at home Ingredients: 10 drops Cinnamon Bark Oil 10 drops Clove Bud Oil 5 drops Lemon Oil 5 drops Eucalyptus Australiana Oil 5 drops Rosemary Oil Mix together and keep in a well labelled, dark glass bottle away from heat and light. All Purpose Surface Spray: Mix 10 drops of Thieves Oil Blend with a drop of washing detergent. Add to 100 ml of distilled water and place in a spray bottle Shake well before use. Massage Oil Dilute 4 drops of Thieves Oil Blend in 20 ml of your carrier oil of choice ( sunflower, grapeseed, rice bran, almond, macadamia etc) 10 Ways to use your Thieves Oil Blend   Spray on pet’s beds to help reduce pet odours   Use as a room spray to freshen stale air   Keep a small bottle of the diluted spray in your handbag and spray on shopping trolley handles… have you seen the reports on the germs that grow on those things?   Apply a light spray to bed linens when travelling to help with keeping bed bugs at bay   Use the spray to wipe down phones and other equipment we place near our face and hands. It’s best to spray a clean cloth first then use the cloth to wipe down the appliance   Use as a toilet deodoriser   The spray is a  simple antibacterial solution for cleaning bathroom surfaces   Use the massage oil when you begin to feel unwell nauseas or  heady   Massage a little of the massage oil into feet after a long day to relax and restore your energy   Use undiluted on plantar warts on the feet.  (Important – see Caution and instructions  below) Caution: Do not use undiluted on skin except in the following circumstance: You can apply 1 undiluted drop to plantar warts.  Apply only on the wart itself and not the skin around it. You may have to do this every day for 3 to 4 weeks but they will eventually begin to shrink and die! Continue the application until the last of the wart has disappeared. I hope that you do get t play with this wonderful essential oil blend… and of course if you have any questions don’t hesitate to email or call us on 1800 005 059. We recommend these.. Thieves Essential Oil Blend Defend and protect Cinnamon Bark Essential Oil Christmas spice Clove Bud Essential Oil Spice energy Lemon Essential Oil Bottled sunshine Eucalyptus Australiana Essential Oil The gentle eucalyptus for all the family Rosemary Essential Oil Oil of remembrance Sweet Almond Oil This article was written by Moon Haven’s aromatherapist and founder Leonie Gully and as such represents her personal opinion on the given subject. Subscribe to the Moon Haven Newsletter where each month Leonie and the Moon Haven Team share articles just like this one plus fill you in on all the happenings at the Moon Haven Cottage. Subscribe to the Moon Haven  newsletter at moonhaven.com.au Leonie loves to receive your emails, questions and requests for information .  Just email her at info@moonhaven.com.au Leonie Gully- Moon Haven's Aromatherapist While any advice provided is general in nature, it is not intended to replace medical diagnosis or treatment.  If you are at all concerned about your condition, it is important that you do consult your medical practitioner of choice for an individual consultation and treatment plan. CHECK OUT OUR MOST POPULAR CONTENT What is your Skin Type? Take Our Skin-Type Test Get a Good Night's Sleep - Naturally 5 Mistakes to Avoid When Washing Your Face Essential Oil Dilutions - How to Use Oils Safely on Your Skin 10 Top Essential Oils for Women Dealing with Arthritis & Body Pain - Naturally Universal Herbal Ointment - Our First Aid Kit in a Jar The Moon Haven Story Get offers, sales and all the latest from moon haven in your inbox Join The MoonHaven Family Do you have a question? ... Want to know more? Just click the "Chat with us" button in the right hand corner of this page to ask a question or get more information - if we're logged in you may even get an answer straight away...otherwise we'll get back to you as soon as we are back online.. Always seek qualified medical advice regarding your own individual situation Please note: Information in this article and on the moonhaven.com.au website represents the opinion of the author and as such is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice and should not be relied on as health or personal advice. Always seek the guidance of your doctor or other qualified health professional with any questions you may have regarding your health or a medical condition.

Watch this video to learn our simple but effective method for creating an essential oil blend using our "3 Oil Blend worksheet "using the Nose Knows method No need to learn complicated formulas or learn the properties of oils ...just follow your nose.

Watch this video to learn this simple but effective method for blending essential oils that suit you and your nose! No need to learn complicated formulas or learn the properties of oils ...just follow your nose. Leonie - moon haven's aromatherapist - has produced this series of videos to help make using essential oils simple and easy to understand.  

Soothing Cracked Heels - My mother's feet were as tough as old boots and as cracked as dried leather... and mine were the same until we developed our Soothing Salve. In just 7 days I was able to rejuvenate my feet so I could wear sandals again.

Make It Your Self After a long day at work or play there is nothing more restoring than a long soak in a warm tub of scented goodness. This make-it-yourself lavender milk bath soak will help you relax, unwind and renew.  This easy to make formula will help to soothe the body,  hydrate your skin, and eases tension all while the aroma of lavender relaxes your mind. Relaxing Lavender Milk Bath Soak Makes enough for 2 good sized baths 1/4 cup bicarbonate of soda 20 drops lavender essential oil 3/4 cups powdered whole milk 2 tablespoons Lavender buds removed from the stems     Add the lavender essential oil to the bicarbonate of soda and whisk well to distribute evenly throughout.Mix in the powdered milk and lavender buds.Store in an airtight container. Add half to the bath as it is filling.   Want to know more? Just click the Messenger button in the right hand corner of this page to ask a question or get more information - if we're logged in you may even get an answer straight away...otherwise we'll get back to you as soon as we are back online.. Always seek qualified medical advice regarding your own individual situation Please note: Information in this article and on the moonhaven.com.au website represents the opinion of the author and as such is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice and should not be relied on as health or personal advice. Always seek the guidance of your doctor or other qualified health professional with any questions you may

Save Your Skin, Don’t Use Body Wash Want to Save Your Skin? Stop Using Body Wash Everyone seems to use it.  You’ll find it in most bathrooms.  They smell nice, create loads of bubbles and leave no trace in your bathroom.  Body washes are great…aren’t they? For many people a body wash suits them just fine.  BUT for a large percentage of people we see at the moon haven cottage it is their body wash and liquid soaps that are causing all manner of skin ailments, itches and pain. You see 98% of the body washes on the market contain Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS). It is the ingredient that gives these products the foamy, bubbly consistency most of us associate with a squeaky clean Sodium Lauryl Sulfate  is also used in other skincare products such as cleansers, shampoos, hand washes. and surprisingly toothpaste. Why is Sodium Lauryl Sulfate so nasty? SLS is known to be a strong skin irritant. It can strip the skin of its natural oils which in turn causes dry skin, irritation and reactions. It can also be very irritating on the eyes and other mucous membranes…yes ladies you know what I’m talking about! Inflammatory skin reactions can  include itchy skin irritated scalp, eczema contact dermatitis Significantly aggravate skin conditions such as psoriasis etc irritate mucous membranes and so encourage candidiasis (thrush) and other yeast overgrowth syndromes. What can you do? Limit your exposure to products which contain SLS Use a handmade solid soap bar in the shower and at the sink -Try one of our bars - of course all of our soap is SLS free. Use a SLS free soap bar. Our Silken Shampoo Bar has rave reviews from people who suffered from scalp conditions like psoriasis and now won't use anything else. Find a toothpaste which does not list SLS in its ingredients. You water wherever possible. Silken Shampoo Bar Soap HOW CONVENIENT SHAMPOO IN A BAR! Your Price: : 100% NO-RISK MONEY BACK GUARANTEE Further Reading This article was written by Moon Haven’s aromatherapist and founder Leonie Gully and as such represents her personal opinion on the given subject. Subscribe to the Moon Haven Newsletter where each month Leonie and the Moon Haven Team share articles just like this one plus fill you in on all the happenings at the Moon Haven Cottage. Subscribe to the Moon Haven  newsletter at moonhaven.com.au Leonie loves to receive your emails, questions and requests for information .  Just email her at info@moonhaven.com.au Leonie Gully- Moon Haven's Aromatherapist While any advice provided is general in nature, it is not intended to replace medical diagnosis or treatment.  If you are at all concerned about your condition, it is important that you do consult your medical practitioner of choice for an individual consultation and treatment plan. CHECK OUT OUR MOST POPULAR CONTENT What is your Skin Type? Take Our Skin-Type Test Get a Good Night's Sleep - Naturally 5 Mistakes to Avoid When Washing Your Face Essential Oil Dilutions - How to Use Oils Safely on Your Skin 10 Top Essential Oils for Women Dealing with Arthritis & Body Pain - Naturally Universal Herbal Ointment - Our First Aid Kit in a Jar The Moon Haven Story Get offers, sales and all the latest from moon haven in your inbox Join The MoonHaven Family Do you have a question? ... Want to know more? Just click the "Chat with us" button in the right hand corner of this page to ask a question or get more information - if we're logged in you may even get an answer straight away...otherwise we'll get back to you as soon as we are back online.. Always seek qualified medical advice regarding your own individual situation Please note: Information in this article and on the moonhaven.com.au website represents the opinion of the author and as such is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice and should not be relied on as health or personal advice. Always seek the guidance of your doctor or other qualified health professional with any questions you may have regarding your health or a medical condition.

SOOTHE YOUR BODY PAIN Boost the effectiveness of your St John's Wort & Calendula Rub (SJWAC) with our Achy Breaky Essential Oil BlendThe addition of an essential oil booster can help improve the sense of relaxation and comfort in the body when used with our already effective St John's Wort & Calendula Rub.

There are two main  approaches to dealing with muscle and body pain Soothe, calm and reduce inflammation - this is the approach taken with Moon Haven's St John's Wort & Calendula Rub Counter-irritate the area, excite the muscles and in turn, confuse the pain signals in the nerves to register something other than pain.This is the way liniments and mentholated sports rubs tend to work. And we agree - there are times when a counterirritant, warming muscle rub like this can be comforting. This easy to make formulation is wonderful to use on old stubborn injuries and muscle pain.     There are 3 Essential Oils that do this well: Ginger Pure Essential Oil's warming and anti-inflammatory qualities help soothe tired, aching muscles and joints.     Eucalyptus Essential Oil is noted for its analgesic properties ( helps to relieve pain) , as well as for its ability to assist with congestion and respiratory issuesInterestingly, eucalyptus leaves were used by indigenous Australians as a poultice to help relieve the muscle and joint pain of arthritis.   Peppermint Pure Essential Oil (Mentha arvensis) is a wonderful oil to use in a muscle rub as it contains around 80% menthol. Menthol is known as a counterirritant. It works by causing the skin to feel cool and then warm. These feelings on the skin distract you from feeling the aches/pains deeper in your muscles and joints.    Combining all three essential oils into one rub makes for a very potent concoction.Here is a suggested formula to make at home. Warming Muscle Rub Blend In a 50 ml glass bottle mix: 10 drops Ginger Essential Oil8 drops Eucalyptus Essential Oil8 Drops Peppermint Essential Oil Top up with Fractionated Coconut Oil. How to use: Massage a few drops into the affected area. Apply as often as needed Don't forget to wash your hands immediately after  - You really wouldn't want any of this blend to get into and delicate areas. In case of irritation:Of course if you experience any burning or discomfort immediately wipe any excess product off your skin and dilute the area with any edible oil you have on hand. You can use any carrier oil, cooking oil you have on hand.   Want to know more? Just click the Messenger button in the right hand corner of this page to ask a question or get more information - if we're logged in you may even get an answer straight away...otherwise we'll get back to you as soon as we are back online.. Always seek qualified medical advice regarding your own individual situation Please note: Information in this article and on the moonhaven.com.au website represents the opinion of the author and as such is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice and should not be relied on as health or personal advice. Always seek the guidance of your doctor or other qualified health professional with any questions you may have regarding your health or a medical condition.      

5 Mistakes to Avoid When Washing Your Face You'd think that washing your face was the simplest of things to get right.  Yet you may be surprised at how many people are doing it wrong! Here are the 5 cleansing mistakes to avoid when washing your face 1. Don't Over Cleanse: The general rule is wash your face with a suitable cleanser before you sleep and wash with tepid water when you wake. Washing more often will strip the natural oils from your skin which could cause your skin to become  dry and more sensitive. Use Moon Haven's Herbal Cleansing Milk with rose geranium for mature, dry and sensitive skin or Herbal Cleansing Gel with Bergamot for unbalanced, acne prone and oil skin. Herbal Cleansing Milk with Rose Geranium Dry, Mature , Sensitive skin Cleansing, Calming, Soothing, Hydrating Herbal Cleansing Gel with Bergamot Suits unbalanced, acne prone & oily skins designed to assist with problem skin issues like congestion, pimples and patches of excessive oiliness. Herbal Cleansing Milk with Rose Geranium Dry, Mature , Sensitive skin Cleansing, Calming, Soothing, Hydrating Dry, Mature , Sensitive skin Cleansing, Calming, Soothing, Hydrating Herbal Cleansing Gel with Bergamot Suits unbalanced, acne prone & oily skins designed to assist with problem skin issues like congestion, pimples and patches of excessive oiliness. Suits unbalanced, acne prone & oily skins designed to assist with problem skin issues like congestion, pimples and patches of excessive oiliness. 2.Don't Use a Foaming Facial Wash The bubbles in a foaming facial wash strip away all your natural oils in your skin- leaving it feeling tight, dry and exposed The natural oils produced by your skin are precious.  Not only do they naturally moisturise your skin, they form part of the body's protective barrier.  3. Don't Scrub When washing your wash there is no need to scrub your skin.  Treat your skin as if it were a baby's.  Gentle soothing strokes.... pat dry with a soft towel is what is required. Scrubbing your skin, as if you were sandpapering, will only cause mini abrasions, gouges and sensitisations.  4. Don't Use Hot or Cold Water Washing your face with hot water will open up the capillaries (blood vessels) near the surface of our skin.  The heat may even cause some to break creating mini bleeds just under the surface of the skin. On the other hand cold water can close the pores on your skin so that any impurities are not released causing clogged and blocked pores. Warm tepid water is the way to go when washing your face. Your pores remain open, the blood vessels intact and your skin remains comfortable.  5. Don't Use a Washcloth/Face Cloth/ Face Brush etc There is so much conflicting advice out there on how to cleanse your skin.  All manner of tools, scrubbers and cloths are available that we're told are invaluable for skin health. But let me tell you... they're not needed ...in fact and in most cases... can do more harm than good. As we read above scrubbing the skin is often counter productive.  It stresses already stressed skin. Cloths and brushes can harbor nasty bugs, yeasts, fungi, bacteria which can infect your skin - especially if it has been broken. As long as you wash your hands first...your finger tips with your favourite cleanser and a little tepid water are perfect for applying and washing away the dirt, dust and daily grime from your face. I hope this information is helpful. Warmest regards, Leonie - moonhaven's aromatherapist, founder & creator of good things CHECK OUT OUR MOST POPULAR CONTENT What is your Skin Type? Take Our Skin-Type Test Get a Good Night's Sleep - Naturally 5 Mistakes to Avoid When Washing Your Face Essential Oil Dilutions - How to Use Oils Safely on Your Skin 10 Top Essential Oils for Women Dealing with Arthritis & Body Pain - Naturally Universal Herbal Ointment - Our First Aid Kit in a Jar The Moon Haven Story Get offers, sales and all the latest from moon haven in your inbox Join The MoonHaven Family Do you have a question? ... Want to know more? Just click the "Chat with us" button in the right hand corner of this page to ask a question or get more information - if we're logged in you may even get an answer straight away...otherwise we'll get back to you as soon as we are back online.. Always seek qualified medical advice regarding your own individual situation Please note: Information in this article and on the moonhaven.com.au website represents the opinion of the author and as such is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice and should not be relied on as health or personal advice. Always seek the guidance of your doctor or other qualified health professional with any questions you may have regarding your health or a medical condition.

Which comes first stinky feet or the stinky shoes? Perhaps they work together to make for a very unpleasant foot odour experience. Thankfully this simple recipe is brilliant at combatting smelly shoes and in turn helps to limit the issue of whiffy feet.

We all want beautiful, glowing skin. Skin that is healthy, radiant and vital. And we all know that exfoliation is a an important step in keeping our skin in tip top condition... But get it wrong and you may be doing much more harm than good.

It's all new! While welcoming your new babe into the world can be exciting, it can also be one filled with many unknowns, questions and concerns. Will the family and new babe settle, can the new parents cope, will mum experience the baby blues, will there be enough sleep? Unfortunately babies don't come with instruction manuals.. The challenges of the post-partum period In this article I wanted to talk about how aromatherapy and herbal principles can assist new mums and their babies through those crucial first few weeks at home. It typically takes 6 to 8 weeks after the birth for the mother's body to start to return to its pre-pregnancy state.  The huge physical , hormonal, emotional and energetic upheavals that occur with pregnancy, childbirth and parenting a newborn are immense.While some new mums may sail through this time the vast majority of us will experience a huge range of emotions and challenges. Here are a few suggestions that may help to ease some of these: Breast care, feeding and lactation:  Increasing milk production: Fennel Tea has been used through the ages to help increase breast milk production.  I know of others who swear by eating a little fresh fennel in salad each day as they work on establishing a reliable milk supply.  Sore, engorged breasts: Add 2 drops of Roman Chamomile 3% dilution in Jojoba, 1 drop Clary Sage and 1 drop Lavender essential oils to 5 ml of a carrier oil like Fractionated Coconut Oil and massage into the breasts as needed. When I was a new mother I was told by my midwife to line my bra with cabbage leaves.  Admittedly it felt a little bizarre, but the leaves were so cooling and comforting and certainly helped soothe my full and painful breasts.  Sore, chaffed or cracked nipples: Moon Haven's Calendula Salve is wonderful to use here.  Smear just a little onto the nipples.  Calendula is a wonderful healer and soother as it is known for it anti-inflammatory properties.  When it comes time to feed just wipe your nipple over with a washcloth to remover the excess sale... what remains is perfectly ok for your babe. Bonus: Calendula salve is fantastic for helping soothe babies bottoms and skin issues. Wounds, bruising and scars: The birthing process can be quite brutal on the body. Episiotomies, internal and external bruising are common.  Sitz Bath :A sitz bath (a shallow bath used for  soothing the anal and genital areas) can be a wonderful comfort and healer during the post-partum recovery period.  You can purchase a sitz bath (usually a special plastic tub - that fits over the toilet) or use a plastic tub to sit in. Alternatively you can put a few inches of water into your bath tub to sit in.  The aim is to have the water deep enough to cover the areas you are attempting to soothe. The magic of the sitz bath rests in the additives you choose to put into the water. Salt is traditionally added to the water but you can also add a few drops of a suitable calming essential oils like Lavender, Chamomile, Cypress. Important: Of course always follow the advice provided by your medical adviser regarding wound care.  Helping Your Emotions: With hormones running rampant in the post partum period no wonder emotions are all over the place.  And yes he day three baby blues as well as post natal depression are very real conditions.  This is where aromatherapy comes into it's own.  Diffusing beautiful emotionally uplifting oils can be a godsend during this period. Oils like Rose Geranium, Rose Absolute or Jasmine in 3% Jojoba Oil, Clary Sage, any of the uplifting citrus oils. Another idea is to use our Uplift Pulse Point Potion.  This is something the new mother can carry with them and apply as needed.  Formulated with Sweet Orange and Lavender essential oils  and diluted in jojoba oil it is suitable to apply to the skin giving direct and immediate comfort. Oh Baby Pack -Essentials for New Mums & Bubs When Laura - our amazing soap and skincare maker was pregnant she put together this pack to help her through the first few weeks after the birth of her first babe Finnley. She chose each item for its practicality and usefulness.(Of course Laura used our Labour of Love Aromatherapy Birth  Kit during the last weeks of pregnancy and during Finnley's birth.  This meant that she had two wonderful essential oil blends as well as the very helpful St Johns Wort & Calendula Rub for her aches and pains)) The Oh Baby kit contains: Bliss Baby Massage Oil - helps relax baby - and the new mum too! Calendula Salve - helps to soothe sore nipples, great for perineal massage, stretch marks for mum  as well as baby's nappy rash and moisturise dry skin Billie Be Good Goats Milk Soap - the most suitable soap for newborns sensitive skin Uplift Pulse Point Potion -a beautifully scented roll on formulated with essential oils to help lift mood and relieve stress. Information and instructions on how to use each item including how to massage a newborn and the intricacies of perineal massage in preparation for birth                 Want to know more? Just click the Messenger button in the right hand corner of this page to ask a question or get more information- if we're logged in you may even get an answer straight away...otherwise we'll get back to you as soon as we are back online.. Always seek qualified medical advice regarding your own individual situationPlease note: Information in this article and on the moonhaven.com.au website represents the opinion of the author and as such is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice and should not be relied on as health or personal advice.Always seek the guidance of your doctor or other qualified health professional with any questions you may have regarding your health or a medical condition.

Aromatherapy can be so helpful when times get tough.  Amazing Essential Oil Helpers for Menopausehe aromatherapy world has some wonderful menopause helpers.  Some of the most noted are :Clary Sage, Peppermint...

make this very feminine blend to help soothe women during times of hormonal imbalance. diffuse or make your very own pulse point potion

Get a Good Night's Sleep ... Naturally If you're having trouble getting to or staying asleep then this article is for you.   Insomnia - the inability to get a good nights sleep is an extremely common problem and one we are often asked to help with at the moon haven cottage.   Luckily we have a number of techniques, products and information to help guide you back to good sleep health and habits.  Quick Hints & Tips Check out the following simple hints & tips to getting a good night sleep. For more in-depth information download our Getting a Good Night's Sleep Naturally Fact sheet here>>>> Click Here to Download the "Getting a Good Night's Sleep" fact sheet Make sure your bed and bedding is suitable to getting a good sleep Your bed should be comfortable, supportive but not too firm, Pillows the right height for your sleeping position and bedding light , loose and comfy. Ensure your bedroom is dark, cool and quiet Establish a good sleep routine -  avoid exercise, screen time and heavy stimulating food and drink at least 2 hours before bedtime keep your bed purely for sleep (and partner cuddles!) Avoid screen time before sleep - keep electronic devices (phones tablets and computers anywhere but the bedroom Ensure that you are physically and mentally ready for rest and sleep at the end of the day Moon Haven's Deep Sleep Pulse Point Potion If you have tried the above hints and tips and are still finding it difficult to get a good night's sleep then it may be time to try our Deep Sleep Pulse Point Potion.   We've had such great feedback from so many of our wonderful moonies about Deep Sleep. In fact I think we'd be run out of town if we ever stopped making it! Moon Haven's Deep Sleep Pulse Point Potion If you have tried the above hints and tips and are still finding it difficult to get a good night's sleep then it may be time to try our Deep Sleep Pulse Point Potion.   We've had such great feedback from so many of our wonderful moonies about Deep Sleep. In fact I think we'd be run out of town if we ever stopped making it! Deep Sleep was developed by our aromatherapist Leonie to help with her own problems with insomnia - it worked so well that she started making it for our family friends and moonies.   The key to getting the best out of this pulse point potion is to use it consistently. In fact, while we instruct our Deep Sleep users to apply it each night for at least 3 weeks...We find that most people are able to enjoy a good nights sleep within a week or so of starting to use this potent potion Get a Check-Up Sometimes poor sleep and deep fatigue have a more deeply rooted cause and when simple sleep techniques like the above do not prove effective then it is wise to book a full medical check up with your doctor.   Conditions like Sleep Apnea, Narcolepsy, Anxiety and Depression can impact significantly on sleep quality and in turn a persons quality of life. So it is wise to follow up with your medical practitioner of choice for further guidance and treatment.   I hope this information is helpful. Warmest regards, Leonie - moonhaven's aromatherapist, founder & creator of good things CHECK OUT OUR MOST POPULAR CONTENT What is your Skin Type? Take Our Skin-Type Test Get a Good Night's Sleep - Naturally 5 Mistakes to Avoid When Washing Your Face Essential Oil Dilutions - How to Use Oils Safely on Your Skin 10 Top Essential Oils for Women Dealing with Arthritis & Body Pain - Naturally Universal Herbal Ointment - Our First Aid Kit in a Jar The Moon Haven Story Get offers, sales and all the latest from moon haven in your inbox Join The MoonHaven Family Do you have a question? ... Want to know more? Just click the "Chat with us" button in the right hand corner of this page to ask a question or get more information - if we're logged in you may even get an answer straight away...otherwise we'll get back to you as soon as we are back online.. Always seek qualified medical advice regarding your own individual situation Please note: Information in this article and on the moonhaven.com.au website represents the opinion of the author and as such is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice and should not be relied on as health or personal advice. Always seek the guidance of your doctor or other qualified health professional with any questions you may have regarding your health or a medical condition.