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Monday, December 15, 2014

Last Minute Gift Ideas

Time is running out and winter holidays are almost here! If you're like me, it's always nice to have a handful of gift ideas for those "just in case" instances. Here is a list of a few of my favorites that are quick and easy. You should have most of the ingredients already on hand. This makes each idea perfect to throw together when you're in a pinch! They are also great gifts to give if your budget has run low but your list still has a few people left. You can give these gifts with confidence they will be much appreciated! 


For a fragrant home:
Room spray: 4 drops of essential oil per 1 cup of water, mix in a spray bottle. (1)
Air freshener: 8 drops of essential oil per 2 1/2 cups of water, mix in a spray bottle. (1)
Essential oil suggestions: lemon for a mood booster and germ fighter, lavender to relax and destress, or for a Christmas party blend (1) equal parts cinnamon, clove and pine essential oils. 

 For a clean home:
Deodorizing spray for the trash can: In a 4 oz spray bottle, add 5 drops peppermint, 7 drops orange and 8 drops lemon essential oil, top with 3 oz water and 1 oz vinegar. Shake to mix. (2) Make a tag to say: Spray in trash can when you change out the bag. 

 Herbal Scouring Powder: 1/2 c baking soda, 1 T ground herbs, 2-8 drops of essential oils. Mix all ingredients well and place in a glass jar with a shaker lid. (3) Make a tag to say: To Use - sprinkle in sink or tub and scrub with sponge.
Herb and essential oil suggestions: lavender = 1 T ground lavender flower and 3 drops lavender essential oil; rosemary = 1-2 T ground rosemary, 3 drops rosemary essential oil.

 For body care: 
Coconut lime body scrub: 1/2 c coconut oil, 1 1/4c white sugar, 12 drops of lime essential oil. Stir to combine. Store in a shower safe jar. 
You could omit the essential oils and still have a wonderful body scrub, or substitute your favorite essential oil that is skin safe. 

 Scented body lotion: Use any unscented (organic) body lotion and add your favorite skin safe essential oil. Check HERE for proper dilution information. 

 For projects that take a little more time, I recommend lip balm, salve (so many possibilities with this one!), or solid perfume. 

 What are you favorite last minute gifts?

Sources: (1) Worwood, Valarie Ann. (1991). The Complete Book of Essential Oils & Aromatherapy. San Rafael, CA: New World Library.(2) Butje, Andrea (2012). Essential Living: Aromatherapy Recipes for Health and Home. Black & Butje, Inc.
(3) Berry, Jan. (2013). Herbal Scouring Powder. Retrieved from http://thenerdyfarmwife.com/herbal-scouring-powder/
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