Adding Essential Oils to a Bug Out Bag

Okay, one thing that most people overlook when they are preparing a bug out bag is healthcare items. Essential oils are a great addition to your bug out bag for many reasons. One of the main reasons I love them for this purpose is that each oil serves many purposes! If you pack benedryl it is good for an antihistamine, and that’s about it. Pack essential oils and you can use them for many other things. You may not find all of these oils to be useful to your specific body type, and you may be prone to experiencing symptoms that I am not familiar with. I recommend that you know the symptoms that you are most likely to incur and pack accordingly. The following are the oils that I have in my bug out bag. Of course, I would try to take my entire "medicine chest" with me, but in the event that I was unable to, the following oils are my go to oils.

Digestzen: I know that for me, stress usually comes with stomach trouble. I will certainly be under stress if I am using my bug out bag, so I had to include this oil. The name pretty much says it all, but let me expound on it for you. This blend contains Ginger, Peppermint, Tarragon, Fennel, Caraway, Coriander, and Anise. This combination is good for all digestive complaints! Constipation, diarrhea, cramps, food poisoning, heartburn, nausea, and parasites. Will your Pepto Bismol handle all those symptoms?

Melaleuca: This oil is a must have for your bug out bag! Melaleuca is antibacterial, antifungal, anti-infectious, and anti-inflammatory among other great things. It can be used for allergies, fungal infections, bacterial infections, boils, bronchitis, chicken pox, cold sores, colds, cuts or wounds, eczema, ear infections (we have used this one many times. Place one drop of melaleuca on a cotton ball and place it in the ear over night. Do not put oils directly in your ear, eyes, or throat), hives, lice, MRSA, pink eye, rashes, sore throat, tonsillitis, viral infections, and warts (Modern Essential Fourth Edition). Now, I cannot think of a single over the counter or prescription medication that can do all that!

Peppermint: Ah, one of my personal favorites. Peppermint is so versatile. I use peppermint if I am feeling overheated for any reason. Be it a fever, or the start of heat exhaustion, I break out my peppermint. I have made a roller ball with 15 drops of peppermint oil and fractionated coconut oil, as well as my straight peppermint oil. Peppermint is also energizing, analgesic, antibacterial, anticarcenogenc, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory (Modern Essentials Fourth Edition). You can use peppermint for bacterial infections, to boost energy, to treat cold sores, decrease congestion, relieve cramping muscles, freshen breath, eliminate a hot flash, and treat hypothyroidism. The most common use for peppermint in our house is a headache. Just use caution not to get it in or too close to your eyes.

Deep Blue: Let's face it, if we are in a bug out situation, we are going to be overworking our muscles! My beloved Deep Blue blend will come to our rescue! Deep Blue has Wintergreen, Camphor, Peppermint, Blue Tansy, German Chamomile, Helichrysum, and Osmanthus. Use this oil to soothe achy muscles, arthritis, and reduce inflammation. It is also great if you have a pinched nerve, bruises, and headaches.

Ravensara from Madagascar

Breathe: There is a good chance that we suffer with some respiratory problems if we are in a bug out situation.  I also use breathe for anxiety, and I am just guessing I will have some mild to moderate anxiety!  Breathe blend contains Laurel leaf (Bay), Peppermint, Eucalyptus radiate, Melaleuca Alternifolia, Lemon, and Ravensara. If you have asthma, do not forget your breathe! Breathe is antiviral too. I have used breathe to relieve symptoms of bronchitis and congestion (apply topically to the chest). Check out it's many other uses in Modern Essentials Fourth Edition.

Frankincense: I suppose if you told me I could only take 1 oil, it would be Frankincense. But, since I have to carry my own, I will bring along the others too. Frankincense enhances the benefits of any oil you layer it with.

Terrashield: Terrashield is a blend that contains Lemon Eucalyptus, Citronella, and lemongrass. This blend is a powerful insect repellent, but it smells wonderful, unlike other insect repellents that you have probably tried. It is also all natural, and does not contain DEET.

The beautiful Citronella plant is one of the powerful ingredients used in Terrashield

Serenity: Serenity contains Lavender, Sweet marjoram, Roman Chamomile, Ylang ylang, Sandalwood, and Vanilla Bean extract. Besides smelling amazing, Serenity is great for calming anxiety and helps with insomnia. It has many other benefits, but these are the main reasons I included it in my bug out bag.

If there are oils you tend to use on a daily basis, I highly suggest incorporating them into your bug out bag. Don't forget to stick at least the mini modern essentials book in your bugout bag! I am putting the Modern Essentials Fourth Edition book in mine. It is a little extra weight, but packed full of useful information that I will need if I am in that situation.

What about you? Are you packing essential oils in your bug out bag? If you haven't used oils before, and would like more information, contact me to start learning about the benefits of essential oils.

The Top Five Bug Out Bag Essentials

The Bag: The body of every bug out bag is of course the bag. A good bag makes a world of difference in a “go” situation. Choosing the right bag is essential to increasing your odds of surviving comfortably. Everyone has different needs, so there is no clear cut bag that will work for everyone. However, I have found a bag that is capable of working for most people.

A Suitable Pack

If you are ok with the color and pattern, this pack will serve as an excellent starter pack. It’s big enough to store enough items to survive comfortably and small enough for the average person to handle with relative ease. It features a waist buckle, which is great for extra carrying support during long hikes, and MOLLE straps around the front for anyone who wishes to customize attachments.

Medication: Arguably the most important part of any bug out bag or go bag is medication to suit your specific needs. If you require any regular dose of medication, pack it. Medication is usually small and light so it should be easy to carry at least 30 days worth of anything that you depend on to live comfortably.

Food and Water: Something that can be a bit more burdensome to haul around in large quantities is food and water. Food must be nutritious or there is really no point to hauling it around in the first place. I recommend something with light weight packaging that is easy to open and has a long shelf life. One product that meets all of these requirements is the Chicken of the Sea salmon packs (found at most grocery stores). My personal pack includes six of these salmon packs, a few bags of homemade beef jerky, and an MRE or two. As far as water goes, luckily for me, I live on a lake and near many other good water sources. So I only carry about two liters of fresh water in my hydration pack. People who do not live near any decent water sources should carry more.

Hydration Pack

I also carry a hand pump water filter to ensure that I can stay stocked on water. A good hand pump filter can provide 12,000 gallons of clean and safe water over its lifetime. That’s enough water to keep a family of four hydrated for almost nine years!

Hand Pump Water Filter

Communication: The fourth bug out bag essential item is a means of communication, a way to leave notes and messages is a good start, but is not enough. Radio is the most effective way to communicate in an emergency situation. I recommend having both two way radios, and CB or HAM radios at your disposal. In addition to a regular AM/FM radio of course.

AM/FM Radio

Two-Way Radios

HAM Radio

When storing radios and other important survival electronics, it is important to consider the possibility of an Electro Magnetic Pulse (EMP). An EMP is a weapon that is like a bomb only it completely fries electronics in a certain radius. A good way to protect your equipment from an EMP blast is by storing it in an airtight metal box. An ammo can makes a great EMP proof box. I keep my entire bag in a very large ammo can to protect my radios and other electronic equipment from an EMP. ESD bags are another great way to keep your electronics safe.

Defense: Having a means to defend yourself is key. Keep in mind that in an emergency situation, there will be a lot of people who are not prepared and are willing to hurt you in order to acquire what they need to survive. Wildlife can also be a danger depending on where you reside. A firearm, crossbow, bow and arrow, machete or hunting knife can all be suitable. What it really comes down to is what you are comfortable handling. For example, if you have never shot a gun before or if it is illegal for you to own one, do not pack one. Instead bring a large fixed-blade knife or machete; even a walking stick can serve as a weapon for self-defense. Do not force yourself out of your comfort zone simply because I recommend having a weapon. Choose something that is right for you and that you feel you are adequately skilled with.

Emergency Preparedness (Essential Oils style!) (Part 3)

Welcome back to the third and final emergency preparedness with essential oils post. The last five oils that are invaluable during emergency situations are listed below.

Lemon for water purification, cleansing, and to elevate your mood, Lemon has antioxidant properties, detoxifies, helps to cleanse, elevates your mood, reduces fatigue, helps to cope with stress, can calm an upset stomach, and helps aid elimination. I drink lemon in my water every day. Start with a few drops in a glass of water, and then increase according to your preference. It is important to use citrus oils in glass or stainless steel containers only as they dissolve petro-chemicals. Try this fun experiment at home. Put 2-3 drops of doTERRA certified pure therapeutic grade essential oil in a Styrofoam cup. Watch as the oil literally dissolves the cup. No need to worry, it will not harm you, it will only effect the petro chemicals.

Lemongrass to support muscle cramps, freshen air, treat bladder infections, reduce mental fatigue, and treat sprains. 3-4 drops of Lemongrass in a gelatin capsule (then fill the rest with fractionated coconut oil) can help to reduce water retention and bring quick relief for a urinary tract infection. I witnessed this myself with a close friend.

Melaleuca for soothing and promoting healing, use Melaleuca as a first aid ointment on bug bites, athlete's foot, eczema, psoriasis, and to support the immune system. You can use it topically or take it internally.

Oregano leaves are good for more than just
spicing up an nice Italian meal

Oregano to support the immune system, Oregano is a powerful oil, and should be used cautiously. Always dilute oregano with fractionated coconut oil. You can apply it straight to a wart, but us caution not to get it on the skin around the wart. If you do, apply coconut oil, do not rinse with water. Take oregano in a capsule to fight bacterial infections. Can help to reduce inflammation, joint and back pain; apply topically with fractionated coconut oil.

Peppermint for fevers, headaches, cooling off, and for indigestion and stomach related problems. The most common use for peppermint is headaches. It works faster than any over the counter! I suggest diluting it with coconut oil initially to test for tolerance. I use peppermint straight, but some find it much easier to use diluted. For a headache, apply to temples, and back of neck, and along jawline. Use caution not to get peppermint in your eyes. I love peppermint for motion sickness. Apply to hands, rub together and inhale.

There are many uses for each of these oils, and there are even more benefits then what has been covered in these posts. Is your family prepared for an emergency? What would you do if you needed medical assistance and were unable to get it right away? Besides food and water, what are some of the other things you think are vital for emergency situations? I'd love to hear your suggestions.

Here is a sneak peek for next weeks posts. 

Emergency Preparedness (Essential Oils style!) (Part 2)

Welcome back, today's post is part two of a three part post series discussing emergency preparedness with essential oils. Here are 5 more oils that everyone should have and understand in case of emergency.

Purify for natural pathogen defense.  Purify helps eliminate airborne pathogens when diffused. You can use it to clean cuts and wounds, or to clean and purify surfaces. It also relieves skin irritation such as insect bites.  Just apply on location. Purify also supports the body's natural defenses, diffuse and inhale.

Frankincense is harvested as a dried sap
before the powerful oil can be extracted 

Frankincense for inflammation and much more!  Frankincense enhances the effects of other oils, it also helps to reduce inflammation (apply topically or take internally), can help relieve headaches (apply with peppermint and lavender), and supports skin tissue recovery.  It can help soothe hyperactivity and restlessness (diffuse and inhale).  Frankincense facilitates clarity and focus of mind.

Terrashield for repelling insects and bugs, deters flying insects and ticks. Diffuse, or apply to skin, apply near windows and door ways. Terrashield also protects pets from ticks and fleas, just apply right on fur.

Pure lavender oil is extracted
directly from the flower spikes

Clove for pain and toxins, Clove helps relieve toothaches, headaches, and other pain.  Apply on location.  It can also be used to draw toxins and infections out of the body.  Apply on location or on the feet.  Clove can aid in relieving nausea or constipation, just massage on stomach or take in a capsule.

Lavender for calming and stress reduction, Lavender helps to relieve stress, anxiety, and insomnia (just diffuse and inhale or massage on skin).  It also takes the pain out a bee sting, hives, and other allergic skin reactions.  It is soothing to skin irritation and burns.  Apply on location with frankincense for burns and sunburns.  Lavender may aid in relieving neuropathy and leg cramps.

Come back later this week for Emergency Preparedness (Essential Oils style!) (part 3)!

For those who want more about emergency preparedness now, check out http://www.survivalblog.com/

Emergency Preparedness (Essential Oils style!)

Emergency preparedness has received a great amount of attention in the last few months; I thought I would share my take on being prepared with essential oils. I do not recommend replacing medical treatment with essential oils and I do believe that sometimes medical care is necessary. I do feel that we, as a society have become very dependent on the medical community, and often look to them for every little affliction.  There may be an event where you cannot get medical attention. In light of Superstorm Sandy, and other epic events, I have been led to share my arsenal for emergencies with you. There are 15 oils that my family is never without. Here are the first five:

AromaTouch for stress relief, AromaTouch is commonly used for relaxation and stress relief.  It also helps to reduce inflammation, just massage it onto affected muscles. AromaTouch also enhances massage benefits.

Pure Laurel Leaf extract is one of the
 key ingredients found in Breathe

Breathe for respiratory support. Helps to ease respiratory distress, just diffuse and inhale or apply to sinuses and chest.   Breathe helps to relax the body and mind. Use during allergy season, apply to chest to clear the lungs and apply on sinuses to relive sinus congestion.

Deep Blue for muscle and joint health. Deep Blue helps to relieve muscle and joint pain caused by arthritis, bruises, headaches, inflammation, overexertion, sprains, and more. Also use it before and after working out. Just apply it directly to muscles and joints.

DigestZen utilizes pure Peppermint extract

DigestZen for natural digestive support, DigestZen relieves digestive discomforts such as food poisoning, acid reflux, nausea, constipation, or diarrhea-apply on the stomach area, or take in a capsule or sublingually. It also helps to support digestive function.

Pure Clove Bud Extract is one of
 the key ingredients found in On Guard

On Guard for natural immune defense. On Guard contains oils shown to inhibit MRSA (antibiotic resistant staph bacteria). It stops the growth of viruses and bacteria.  Diffuse or apply on location; it can also be used to clean surfaces. On Guard aids in mold inhibition, helps kill airborne pathogens, helps knock out colds and sore throats. Gargle with a teaspoon of water and 1-2 drops of On Guard then swallow. It also helps support the immune system, just take it in a capsule, or diffuse. I make a mixture using local honey, fresh organic lemons, and On Guard to add to my tea if I feel a cold coming on.  It has a lovely cinnamon flavor, with medicinal benefits.



Come back in a few days for the the next five oils that everyone will want access to in an emergency!

Free Wi-Fi Hotspot on Android Without Root (How To)

How to Tether Any Wi-Fi Device to Your Android Phone
Ever find yourself away from home and in need for a Wi-Fi connection? If you have an activated Android device that is 3G or 4G capable, then look no further! This is a step by step guide to using your Android device as a free mobile Wi-Fi hotspot. The best part is that there is no need to Root your device!

Step 1. Download FoxFi from the Google Play Store and install the app on your device

This is FoxFi in the Play Store

Step 2. Run FoxFi

This is the FoxFi start up screen

Step 3. Assign a name to your hotspot by touching "Network Name" then typing in the name you would like to give your hotspot (I am using "My Android Hotspot")

Step 4. Assign a password to protect your hotspot by touching "Password (WPA2)" then typing in the password you would like to use (I am using "1234567890")

Step 5. Check the box that is next to "Activate WiFi Hotspot" (your hotspot will begin to startup, this may take a few minutes depending on how strong of a signal your device is getting from your carrier)

When you see this screen your hotspot is ready to use!

(Notice the three blue bars in the upper left next to "FoxFi WiFi Hotspot Ready" and the dot above the "i" in FoxFi is now orange instead of blue)

Connecting a Windows 7 Computer to Your Hotspot
This is a step by step guide to connecting any Windows 7 computer to your FoxFi hotspot.

Step 1. Check your current network status by scrolling your cursor over the Wi-Fi connection symbol in the bottom right hand corner of your screen.

Step 2. Click the Wi-Fi connection symbol to view available connections and select the hotspot you created (mine is "My Android Hotspot") then click the "Connect" button

Step 3. A window will appear and ask you for the security key for the network. Type in the password that you created in step 4 of the setup guide

Step 4.Your computer will begin to connect to your hotspot. This may take a few minutes and may give you an error if your device does not have 3G or 4G when you attempt to connect

Step 5. If you do not receive an error, scroll over the Wi-Fi connection symbol to check the status of your connection. A good connection always says "Internet Access" below the hotspot name

 Enjoy having a hotspot with you wherever you go!

Notice: This method of tethering is not legal on all carrier's policies and plans. Know your plan's policy before using any data while connected to your hotspot.

Treating Colds and Influenza

The Influenza Virus

With all the buzz on the news about Influenza, I have to say, I am not afraid. I know that I have a powerful tool for keeping myself healthy during cold and flu season. If you are considering the flu shot, I would love to suggest doing research before jumping into it. If you still decide to vaccinate, at least you will be educated on the risks. Today, I'd like to share some natural, alternative methods for preventing and treating Influenza and colds that I use.

The H1N1 Strand

The essential oils have many applications including preventing and treating colds and that dreaded flu! First off, keep in mind that my results have been with doTERRA certified pure, therapeutic grade essential oils. I have tried many other oils and did not experience the same benefits. The quality of oil really does make a difference. I use one drop of doTERRA oil and get better results than I did using several drops of other brands. 

To start how do you know if it is a cold or the Influenza virus? The flu (Influenza) is a highly contagious viral infection of the respiratory system and is usually marked by sudden onset and a high fever. You may also experience a dry cough, sore throat, muscle aches and pains, headache, fatigue, loss of appetite, nausea, and nasal congestion.A cold, on the other hand, is a viral infection that causes a stuffy or runny nose, congestion, cough, sore throat, or sneezing. Typically, there is not a high fever or the sudden onset with a cold, like there is with the flu.

The Common Cold

Colds: The first thing I do when I think I have a cold is to use Melaleuca. The most effective way to use it is right on your tongue! I must warn you, it is not the most palatable way to use it, but I get quick results with this method. If you cannot tolerate the taste, you can buy empty gelatin capsules and take it that way. The key to using oils is to use small doses (1-2 drops) throughout the day. Many people think that if they take 10 drops, they will be good for the day. It is much better to spread it throughout your day! Other great oils for a cold are Thyme, lemon, On Guard, all used aromatically and topically.

Influenza: The key to treating Influenza is to catch it early and begin treatment right away!I keep On Guard foaming hand soap (recipe to follow) in my bathroom to help prevent the spread of Influenza. I also have a spray bottle with water and about 20 drops of On Guard that I use on the door knobs and light switches. This mix can also be used as a hand sanitizer during flu season. The top oils for Influenza are Breathe, Melaleuca, rosemary, eucalyptus, and On Guard, all used aromatically and topically. There is also peppermint which can help alleviate a fever by using it aromatically, topically, and internally.One of my favorite treatments for both colds and the flu is to take a teaspoon of local, raw honey and add one drop of cinnamon essential oil (Trust me when I say one drop!).This technique can provide instant relief of influenza symptoms. In addition, cinnamon is antibacterial, anti-fungal, anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and so much more!

Of course, with either of these, make sure you are drinking plenty of water, and getting plenty of rest! There is no substitute for good nutrition and proper rest.
 
On Guard Foaming Hand Soap Recipe:
1 Cup purified or Distilled water
1/4 Cup Castille liquid Soap (I prefer the shea butter formula)
1 teaspoon vegetable glycerin (you can find this at most health food stores, and sometimes in the first aid section of stores like Wal-Mart and Target.)
Dispensing pump (https://www.aromatools.com/8_oz_Clear_Plastic_Foamer_Bottle_p/9249.htm)

Do you have other natural methods for treating colds and Influenza? Have you used essential oils to treat colds and Influenza successfully? I'd love to hear your stories.