What do Air Wick, d-CON and Sani-Flush have in common? They are just a few of the 30+ power brands produced by the humongous conglomerate known as Reckitt Benckiser (RB for short). I’m focusing on Air Wick today as, once again, I am incensed by their continued false ad campaigns. Inspired by the latest blast by Truth in Advertising, I did some more digging. I wanted to know how a product that contains Dipropylene glycol monomethyl ether, Hexyl salicylate and a chemically derived camphor was getting away with it. Easy. They don’t list the ingredients on the label. None of their products do. Instead, they refer you to their website where you’ll find all the ingredients conveniently entitled “fragrance components” – wow. What’s more, RB has the nerve to claim that their Air Wick products “help people lead healthier lives” – really? I guess they’re counting on consumers ignoring the product ratings from EWG (Environmental Working Group) which has given every one of Air Wick’s 104 products a D or an F (scale of A to F) with warnings like: “Potential for skin irritation/allergies/damage; acute aquatic toxicity; nervous system effects.” So here’s my annual Buyer Beware reminder: There is no regulation for the terms fragrance, natural or pure. Branding pros can slap that on a label with no accountability. When in doubt, avoid anything with the word fragrance. Ditto the word scented. Never buy anything that doesn’t list the ingredients on the label. I use authentic essential oils daily and have for years but whether it’s oils, herbs or supplements – know your source and use wisely.
essential oils
Keeping Your Cool
Temps are climbing to 100 degrees today, pollution levels are high and our long hot summer continues to test people’s patience and wellness. Here’s one way to help keep both you and your space calm and cool. Use a blend of lavender, lemon and peppermint essential oils in your diffuser. This combination aids in purifying the air, lifting your spirits and balancing energies. You can add more or less of any one of the oils depending on your preference (easy on the lemon as it’s more astringent). For even better results, place the diffuser next to your fan for greater dispersement! No diffuser yet? Add the oils to sea salt and place a handful in the corner of your shower to dissolve while you shower. Or toss the salt blend in tepid water for a foot soak. TIP: Make your oils go further. Fill the empty bottle with spring water and replace the cap. Shake. There’s enough residual oil left so you can refill up to three times before recycling the bottle. See my resource section on Essential Oils for more tips.
Before and After – Bedroom Bliss
How do you create tranquil bedroom space? How about if there IS no bedroom? Why is the bedroom THE most important area of your place? Click here to view the answers and learn more in Part Two of my cottage transformation. Sweet dreams!
What’s Your Home JOY Factor?
Every home has a JOY factor. How would you rate yours? It doesn’t matter if you live in a 4k sq. ft. home or a studio apartment, your space should be a source of cheer. A refuge of welcome and an uplifting place to dwell. If your home (and or office) isn’t making you smile, look to nature for inspiration and countless remedies to banish the blues. From clearing and cleaning your space to refreshing and uplifting your spirits, bringing nature indoors helps you connect to the bright side of life. To get you started, click here for my quick pdf guide, Energy Boosts from A Clear Place, a how-to for lifting your spirits and home energy by using essential oils and energy essences. Meanwhile, display this card whenever you need a lift. Place in a dark or cool corner of your home to add warmth. Pin it next to your mirror as a reminder to smile. Don’t have your Wisdom Cards yet? Order here and take your joy factor from a two to a ten!
About this photo: Always pointing to the sun, this giant sunflower was a perfect choice for the JOY card. Brilliant petals against the bright blue sky of a warm summer day … the energy makes my heart smile. Taken at Skyline Farm just west of Portland.
Orange You Glad?
It’s Fall! Can you name the ONE source to lift your mood, welcome guests and clean your space? It’s edible, affordable and perfect for warming your energy during the chilly days ahead. Hint: It’s not pumpkin. Find out more and get other news and suggestions in this week’s Light Show. Take a few minutes and enjoy it now! View the Light Show.
Common Scents
Give your space a clear and uplifting energy boost with Orange Essential Oil. Orange oil aromatherapy is known to help with depression, seasonal disorder and feeling blue. It’s the popular choice to make rooms inviting and welcoming for guests and/or home buyers. Use the oil in your electric diffuser or drop into a small pot of simmering water on the stove top. Keep your counters clean and brighten the energy all around you by adding a few drops of orange oil into a mister of water and use on a clean cloth.
Orange oil comes in both bitter and sweet varieties. Sweet is the most commonly used. I prefer the subtle fragrance of the bitter oil. Experiment with the one you like most.
TIP: Don’t throw away your orange peels. Stud them with a few whole cloves or pieces of cinnamon bark and toss into a pot of water and heat for a warm and spicy fragrance. Adding a bag or two of chai tea will increase the pleasing aroma.
WARNING: Orange oil should NOT be applied directly to the skin. Be sure to use only AUTHENTIC essential oils that show the source and botanical name. Synthetics can cause adverse reactions. If you are in doubt, drop me a line and I’ll give you some guidance on selection.
A Clear Place 