Ring-around the rosie

A pocket full of posies,

Ashes! Ashes!

We all fall down.

This American version of an English nursery rhyme is something that has stayed with many since childhood. It’s haunting references to the worst plague in history could only be understood much later in life. As time passed, so did our advancements in modern medicine. Still, today, life continues to educate us further as we face the latest epidemics and pandemics throughout the world. One way we can help ourselves and each other is to stay informed, seek the wisdom of those who came before us and practice wellness methods that contribute to our mind, body and spirit.

The ‘Black Death’ was the most devastating pandemic in human history. It’s estimated to have killed somewhere between 30% to 60% of Europe’s population alone. Over 20 million people fell victim to this tragic outbreak. The people of that time had no options for treatment once the symptoms set in. Desperate victims turned to alternative cures such as Aromatherapy, Bloodletting, carrying sweet-smelling flowers and herbs to ward off the disease.

The progression we’ve made with modern medicine has allowed us to keep many outbreaks at bay.Through continued education and practice of preventative measures, we’ve been able to provide a healthier environment at home and in the workplace.

Along with medical professionals, natural wellness folks have contributed to the fight against disease by use of ancient herbal remedies. One popular essential oil blend still in use today is “Four Thieves”.
It’s believed during the later part of the 14th century, four thieves spent their days robbing the sick and dying while eluding the plague. Eventually, the thieves were caught and charged for their crime. A crime punishable by being burned alive. The judge was so fascinated with how they remained immune to the disease, he offered to spare them the punishment if they shared their secret.The thieves shared they were perfume and spice merchants who created an herbal infusion which they applied to their hands, ears, temples and feet. The herbal infusion, along with a mask over their mouths, kept them safe from infection.

Here is a version of Four Thieves Essential Oil Blend found online at Mountain Rose Herbs. They also provide an essential oil dilution guide with a calculator on their site too!

Four Thieves Essential Oil Blend:

• 40 drops of clove bud essential oil

• 35 drops of lemon essential oil

• 20 drops of cinnamon bark essential oil

• 15 drops of eucalyptus essential oil

• 10 drops of rosemary essential oil

Mix the ingredients together and store in a dark glass bottle.

You Can A Household Cleaner

Fill a spray bottle with half water and half 91% isopropyl alcohol and add the essential oil blend at a 1 to 2% dilution rate. Shake well before using! Add 1 drop of Thieves per 1 oz of water.

You Can Make A Diffuser

To freshen the air in your home or workplace, add a few drops of the blend to an essential oil diffuser (consult diffuser’s use guide for amount) or a pot of simmering water on the stove. Diffuse for approx. 20 to 30 minutes.

You Can Also Make A Massage Oil

Mix the essential oil blend to a 1 to 2% dilution rate with organic jojoba or olive oil.

Potential benefits of thieves oil include boosting the immune system, promoting respiratory health, and fighting microbes.

General Safety Precautions:

• Always dilute essential oils properly before using. Never apply an undiluted essential oil directly to your skin.

• When using essential oils for aromatherapy, make sure the room has good ventilation.

• Some essential oils are dangerous for pregnant women, children and pets. Be cautious of your surroundings!

• If you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, or trying to become pregnant, talk with your doctor before using essential oils.

• Be aware of photosensitivity when using citrus based essential oils to avoid burning or pigmentation changes.

• Test for skin reactions! Both Cinnamon and Clove Oil are potential skin irritants!