Simply Jen

Come See Me in April!!

2011-03-31T12:43:00.000-07:00

Wow! March has sure been a busy month making product to sell at my three upcoming shows in April! I hope you can come! I'd love to see you and to get your feedback on which new products you would like to see as well as feedback on the Simply Jen products you've used! All three shows are going to be lots of fun, so bring your friends and plan for a memorable time! I look forward to seeing you and pampering your hands! :)

* FREE tickets to the What a Woman Wants Show can be requested via Facebook at: www.facebook.com/simplyjennaturals - while supplies last!

Jen's Wonder Lemonade!

2011-02-04T11:39:00.000-08:00

Many of my friends, family, and customers from all over the world are announcing that they are sick! I myself have not been following my own advice or using my own Immunity of Thieves oil to stay well, and I woke up with some stuff going on in my sinuses. So, since I have been receiving requests for my "Wonder Lemonade" I decided to post it here for all to use and benefit from! This recipe is a keeper for many reasons - especially during times of sickness.

SINGLE SERVING RECIPE
2 Lemons Juiced/Squeezed
2 tsp REAL Maple Syrup (Artificial maple syrup will not work)
1 Cup Filtered Water
2-3 Drops Liquid Cayenne (Optional, but recommended)

GALLON RECIPE (16 Servings)
3 Cups Lemon Juice (About 20 lemons)
1½ Cup REAL Maple Syrup
12 Cups Filtered Water
32+ drops Liquid Cayenne (Optional, but recommended)

Why it's great:

1) REAL maple syrup provides vitamins, minerals, and sweetness while also altering the body's pH to a more alkaline state. Disease and illness have a hard time surviving in an alkaline state. The average American diet puts most bodies in a very acidic state - leaving them more susceptible to illness. Maple syrup contains: potassium, calcium, magnesium, and manganese. These minerals maintain cell integrity, regulate heartbeat, strengthen bones, regulate critical enzymes, release of energy, relax muscles, and promote resistance to tooth decay by holding calcium in tooth enamel.

The vitamins present in pure maple syrup are PP (Niacin), B5 (Pantothenic Acid), B2 (Riboflavin), Folic Acid, B6 (Pyridoxine), Biotin, and Vitamin A. Vitamins are essential, organic nutrients that serve as as helpers in cell functions. .

2) FRESH lemon juice has a blood cleansing effect and also provides a more alkaline state. FRESH lemon juice flushes out toxins and is high in vitamin C, potassium, and vitamin B1. Lemon juice regulates the digestive tract, boosts liver function, helps the body's immune system to fight off infection and the common cold, and helps rid the body of harmful bacteria and toxins. The vitamin C found in lemon juice also helps the body to maintain an adequate level of calcium which leads to strong teeth and bones.

3) Liquid Cayenne Pepper is a natural antibiotic, powerful disinfectant, fights infection, breaks up mucous and provides relief from sore throats.

Here is another rendition of my lemonade recipe taken as a "shot". Great if you want something quick and potent and can handle some spice. Also great if you want to use cayenne but only have the powder.

3 ounces warm water
Juice of 1 lemon
1 Tablespoon real maple syrup
1/8 tsp. cayenne powder

I hope this helps bring you all relief at the tail end of this winter and all year long! I'd love to hear from you about how you like the recipe or how you've changed it to make it better!

More info on lemons:
http://www.livestrong.com/article/237993-nutritional-benefits-of-drinking-lemon-juice/#ixzz1D1Yyn7RV
http://www.herbs2000.com/herbs/herbs_lemon.htm

More info on REAL Maple Syrup:
http://www.peertrainer.com/loungecommunitythread.aspx?forumid=1&threadid=24775

More on Cayenne: http://www.mothernature.com/Library/Bookshelf/Books/23/20.cfm

Simply Jen in Southern Idaho Living Magazine!

2010-12-01T00:00:00.000-08:00

This is so exciting! My first appearance in the media! Take a look!

So, what do you think?

xo,

Jen

My #1 Back-To-School MUST-HAVE!

2010-08-26T17:29:00.000-07:00

It's back-to-school time, and many parents are bracing themselves for cold and flu season. All it takes is one sick child attending school to infect an entire slew of children with a cold or the flu. And everyone knows that when a child brings a bug home from school, the entire family pays. Furthermore, days missed at school can effect funding of public schools, and missed days at work can effect family finances.

My family has enjoyed many healthy days when others have been forced into bed to ride out a lengthy recovery from a cold or flu. Our secret? Essential oils! Along with all my other healthy, and toxin-free bath and body care products, I've created a special blend of 5 different essential oils called "Immunity of Thieves".

The skin absorbs about 60% of what we apply to it - right into the bloodstream. With essential oils, this percentage is even greater. The molecules of essential oils are so tiny that they absorb more rapidly than substances with a larger molecular size. When applied to the body by massaging into the soles of the feet, essential oils travel through the body and affect every cell within just 20 minutes! When carefully blended together, the essential oils of Clove, Cinnamon, Lemon, Eucalyptus, and Rosemary - a synergistic effect takes place making the oils much more powerful together than they are apart. This blend of oils is highly anti-bacterial, anti-viral, and anti-fungal. When they enter the bloodstream, they have a powerful effect on our health. Essential oils have the ability to penetrate the cell wall and transport oxygen and nutrients inside the cell. This increases the amount of oxygen within the cell, which in turn gives more support to the immune system. Research has shown that people using essential oils recover 70% faster! I have personally found this to be very true!

So, during the school-year, our kids know the drill. At bedtime, right before we tuck them in for the night, they each put up their little feet, and we massage about 5 drops of this pre-diluted blend into the bottom of each foot. That's it! If we ever become lax with our routine and a child starts to come down with something, we use the same method on the feet as well as on the back and chest three times a day. If we catch it quickly, the symptoms usually go right away (within a few hours). If we delay treatment, it still only takes a couple of days for perfect health to resume! And of course, this blend works just as well with adults as it does with children.

Essential oils are simply amazing! I like to call them "Nature's Antibiotics" because, in my family, they have truly taken the place of prescription antibiotics - yet they are much gentler, very effective, and our bodies don't build up a resistance to them. So if I had to choose one "must-have" for back-to-school...it would most definitely be my Immunity of Thieves Oil!!

Wishing you all a school-year filled with lots of learning, plenty of fun, and good health!

xo,
Jen

To order your own bottle of my Immunity of Thieves Essential Oil blend, visit my online store!

SJ Products Travel to COLORADO!

2010-08-05T16:49:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to Kadi S.!

Kadi is my first customer to order from Colorado and received FREE SHIPPING! Thanks Kadi for adding yet another beautiful pin to my virtual SJ travel map!

xo,
Jen

Naughty Ingredient 101: Mineral Oil

2010-07-06T14:38:00.000-07:00

So you want to be a savvy (personal care product) label reader, huh? Good for you! Not only will you want to know which ingredients to avoid, but which healthy and beneficial ingredients to look for! Let's start things off with a common "naughty" ingredient that can be found in 98% of commercial personal care and baby care products...

Mineral Oil

Mineral oil is a petrochemical and very common ingredient found in personal care products. It is produced as a byproduct of the distillation of gasoline from crude oil and contains neurotoxins which are toxic to the nervous system. Mineral oil is leftover liquid, and because it is abundant, it is very inexpensive. In fact, it is more expensive to dispose of mineral oil, than to purchase it.

Mineral oil has no nutritional value and is a known carcinogen (cancer causing agent) and yet the cosmetic industry still uses it in lip gloss, lotions, creams, ointments and shampoos. In fact, it is a key ingredient in many personal care products formulated for babies! Baby oil is simply mineral oil that has been scented (even worse)! Pick up any personal care products for babies or adults and you're likely find mineral oil as a main ingredient.

Problems with mineral oil are two-fold. Externally, it forms a thin layer over the skin which acts as a barrier, clogging the pores, thus slowing or preventing the skin from being able to eliminate toxins, and aging the skin (it is the number two cause of aging, next to the sun). When applied externally, Mineral oil also causes internal problems. Remember, the skin absorbs (right into the bloodstream), 60% of everything applied to it. Once a product is absorbed, it is broken down by the liver and passes through the intestinal tract. When mineral oil passes through the intestinal tract, it absorbs all of the fat-soluble vitamins found there. The mineral oil basically steals all the essential vitamins from the body, which the body will not be able to replace. You can see how this could eventually lead to nutritional deficiencies.

Unfortunately, 98% of personal care products contain mineral oil and are often listed under hundreds of other names, which can make it hard to identify. A few aliases are: deobase, liquid paraffin, liquid petrolatum, paraffin oil, paraffinum liquidum, paraffin wax, prolatum oil, petroleum, mineral spirits, petroleum spirits, Uvasol.

An unbiased study released by the Cancer Prevention Coalition in June 2002, contained the following: ‘Cancer and health experts just concluded reviews that indicate mainstream cosmetics and personal hygiene products including lotions, soaps and shampoos, pose the highest risk exposures to the general public. This risk is higher than smoking.”

All-in-all, mineral oil is an ingredient to avoid. Look for products that use vegetable, seed, and nut oils instead, such as olive oil, apricot kernel oil, or grape seed oil, to name a few. These oils are rich in nutrition and highly beneficial to the skin and body!

Simply Jen Naturals are NEVER formulated with petrochemicals! Try an Olive Oil Lotion today! You won't find any mineral oil in that ingredient list!

Sunburn Rescue!

2010-06-21T10:00:00.000-07:00

Today is the official first day of Summer (yay!!!), and already I've heard of several cases of sunburn, on Facebook alone! I myself was caught off-guard by unexpected sunshine last weekend and have a bit of a sunburned shoulder. Luckily, I didn't suffer long! And neither will you, if you follow my tips for sunburn rescue!

My preferred method of sunburn prevention is to avoid being in the sun during peak hours (10am-4pm), and to wear protective clothing, hats, and sunglasses. When I do need to wear sunscreen, I prefer physical sunscreens to the toxic, chemical-laden variety. ;)

So, while prevention is always the best cure, things don't always work out perfectly. And when they don't, you've gotta keep a smile on your face and go with plan B!

Lavender Essential Oil - a Summer Staple!

Lavender essential oil really is amazing for any kind of burn! It will ease the pain, heal the skin faster, and prevent scarring. It also helps unhealthy skin cells die off instead of mutating into cancer cells (healthy cell renewal). Good stuff!

Lavender EO can be applied neat (undiluted) for most individuals. The simplest way to use Lavender is to apply it directly to the burn using a cotton ball. Continue reading for more ways to use this summer staple!

Lavender Mist
Fill a spray bottle with about 10-20 drops of Lavender essential oil and 1/2 cup of water ( I like distilled, but tap water will do). Shake well before each use and spray the affected area. This is very soothing and cooling. You can substitute the water for Aloe Vera juice, but be sure to keep it refrigerated.

Lavender & Oatmeal Bath
Oatmeal is very healing and soothing. It holds moisture and has a high silica content, making it an ideal skin soother. A lavender and oatmeal bath soothes dry, itchy or irritated skin. Lavender and oatmeal baths are perfect for children with mild sunburn.

Grind 2-4 cups of dry oats into a fine powder using a blender. Add to lukewarm bath water along with 10 drops of lavender essential oil. Soak for 15-30 minutes. Gently pat dry. The oatmeal will form a thin, protective layer on the skin. (Don't wash off).

Lavender & Oatmeal Paste
If your sunburn is only on a small area of your body, you can use a lavender & oatmeal paste instead of a bath. Add 5 drops of lavender essential oil to 1 cup of finely ground oats. Add enough water or aloe juice to create a paste. Apply to sunburn and leave for 15 minutes. Remove gently with a wet washcloth, or rinse off over a sink and pat dry. Afterward, apply a layer of lavender essential oil using a cotton ball.

Peppermint Compress
Peppermint essential oil is known for it's cooling properties and is also anti-inflammatory (as well as anti-carcinogenic). Fill a sink or basin with cool water. Add 5 drops of peppermint essential oil to the water. The essential oil will float on top of the water. Place a clean washcloth on top of the water and let it soak up the infusion. Wring out and apply to the burn. Repeat several times (without adding additional essential oil).

Apple Cider Vinegar
To prevent blistering and peeling, apply apple cider vinegar to the burn with a cotton ball. I prefer Bragg's Apple Cider Vinegar with the mother, which can be found inexpensively at your local health food store.

Sunburn-healing Supplements You can speed the healing of a sunburn internally as well! Take the following supplements for a few days following a sunburn:

1,000 mg of vitamin C
400 I.U. of vitamin E
15 mg of beta carotene
1-2 tablespoons of flaxseed oil (an essential fatty acid)

So, the next time outdoor activities result in an unwelcome sunburn, you can smile and say..."I have a cure for that!!" Have a GREAT summer!!!

xo,
Jen

PS - My Lavender Olive Oil Lotion, or Lavender Baby Lotion are both wonderful for sunburns, as is my First-Aid Stick which contains Lavender Essential Oil! The oils in the lotions are high in Omega Fatty Acids which help heal and regenerate skin cells, and protect from aging and sun damage. My First-Aid Stick does all of those things and then some! It has extreme benefits for severe burns, and is wonderful for bug bites - another "gift" of summer!

UPDATE on Nick!

2010-06-15T18:10:00.000-07:00

If you have been following Nick's touching story - I have an amazing update for you!

Nick went in for open-heart surgery today to have a large tumor inside his heart removed! I am pleased (or should I say GIDDY!!) to announce that the surgery was SUCCESSFUL!

They were able to remove the tumor and the doctors report that he is doing very well! Below is a photo of the tumor.

Can you believe this thing was inside his heart?!!

His family expresses their deepest gratitude to all who have donated auction items or cookies for the fundraiser and for all those who have given cash donations! And thanks to all of you who have purchased Simply Jen products this past week. A portion of the proceeds have been donated to the family! Further donations are still appreciated and can be given by clicking here.

xo,
Jen

Nick's Fundraiser UPDATE

2010-06-11T17:24:00.000-07:00

My family and I attended the "We{Heart}Nick" fundraiser last Thursday. The food was delicious, the entertainment was fantastic, and the overall feeling of love was overwhelming. Here is a photo recap!

Me and Darla (Nick's mom and my best friend since we were toddlers!

"A Touch of Class" singing. Most or all are relatives of Nick.

Tony Garcia (my husband!!) performing with the band.

Nick with my daughter Ellie

Little Nick made his appearance, and everyone was armed with their hand sanitizer (to prevent Nick from catching anything before his big day) and eager to greet, hug, and high-five him. He was all smiles.

Potato bar with all the trimmings! Yum!

Hundreds of people came to support Nick by purchasing dinner (all funds donated) and by bidding on nearly 100 donated items in a silent auction. Overall, the fund-raising event was a success! The funds raised will help pay for part of the family's expenses related to Nick's surgery.

On the door was this adorable poster created by Nick himself, which reads "Thank You!!"

If you would still like to donate, please do so!

Nick's surgery is scheduled for Tuesday, June 15, 2010. Please stay tuned for an update!

Thank you for all your support! This little boy is worth every penny and every prayer!

xo,
Jen

Close to My Heart!

2010-06-03T14:39:00.000-07:00

Hello friends! Here is a story that is very close to my heart. I hope you will take a moment to read it!

My dear friend Darla and I have been the best of friends since we were small children. We grew up next door to each other from the time we were babies. We now have children of our own and though we are miles apart, we are still knit together in a way that can't be explained. She is a woman I absolutely love and adore!

Darla's second child, Nick, was born in 2004 - with a tumor. The tumor was located INSIDE of Nick's heart, inter-twined around the septum and invading all 4 chambers of the heart.

(The above photo was taken of Darla and me [Darla is holding my oldest child, Riley who is only 4 months older than Nick] at the Ronald McDonald House in Salt Lake City during one of Nick's visits to Primary Children's Medical Center. Darla has always kept a smile on her face, and has exhibited more strength than I ever thought possible for a mother in her situation).

At just 5 months of age, significant growth of the tumor caused the several cardiologists at PCMC to recommend open-heart surgery immediately to attempt removing some of this growth and to at minimum gather a biopsy to determine the type of tumor they were dealing with. Surgery was performed immediately, but with little success. The tumor appeared to be inoperable. They determined that the tumor classification was of the FIBROMA family. Fibromas tend to grow sometimes. Nicholas was put on serious heart medicine. His heart managed to compensate in some way for the tumors growth and the space it took up. He was still monitored by Primary Children's Medical Center on a very regular basis.

At just 3-1/2 years old, little Nick underwent a 10-hour surgery to have an ICD (pacemaker /defibrillator) implanted. Before this, Nick's heart had begun fibrillating - causing him to pass out. For 2-1/2 years, the ICD has paced Nick's heart 15% of the time and has defibrillated him approximately 6 times!

Nick is now 6-years-old. Recently, his heart has not been responding to the defibrillation as quickly as it needs to and has required more than one "therapy shock" to snap out of its fatal ventricular tachycardia rhythm. Many times this rhythm reaches 300 to 400 beats per minute.

Due to this problem, his pediatric cardiologists now recommend re-opening the heart and attempting once again to remove the tumor.

This procedure has not been done before because there has not been a case quite like Nick's. There is great risk in not taking steps at this time to correct the problems he is experiencing, but also risk in performing this major operation. He will be seen by a specialist at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota on June 15, 2010 to attempt this feat.

In an effort to help with the cost of this surgery, a fundraiser has been organized for Thursday, June 10th, at the Shelley High School in Idaho Falls, Idaho. More info here

If you are unable to attend, there are other ways you can help!

Make a cash donation to the "We {Heart} Nick" Foundation
It's easy and only takes a credit/debit card and a couple of minutes! Service provided by PayPal.

Purchase Simply Jen products
Make an online purchase between June 1st and June 10th and 20% of the profits will be donated to the We {Heart} Nick Foundation! I will also be attending the fundraiser and donating Simply Jen products for the fund-raising auction and raffle!

Either way, please give what you can. This is a very special little boy with a very special family and your support/donation/purchase regardless of the amount would make such a difference!

Thank you in advance for your generosity in helping a family I love so very much!

Lots of love, (many x's & o's!)
Jen

Bug Bites in Hong Kong!

2010-05-23T17:57:00.000-07:00

My friend Shanna (besties since 7th grade!) called me today from Hong Kong, China. She and her family of three moved there less than a week ago (!!!), and did I mention she's pregnant? Brave, adventurous, wonderful girl!

Anyway, back to this phone call. She called to tell me that she was nearly eaten alive by bugs during her and her daughter's recent trip to the park. When she gets bug bites, they really swell up, so she was NOT happy. So when they returned home, she used my first-aid stick. By that night, the bug bites were almost completely gone! Needless to say - I was ecstatic!

When I introduced my first-aid stick last year, we were past bug-bite season, so this has been the first chance to see it in action on bug-bites! And just so you know, the essential oils contained in my first-aid stick are effective at keeping bugs away in the first place!

If you're interested in purchasing a first-aid stick, visit my online store!

xo,
Jen

PS - Diaper rash? Cuts? ACNE? Rashes? Headaches? Cold sores? First-Aid Stick to the rescue!! :)

SJ Products travel to NEW YORK CITY!

2010-05-11T14:35:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to Lara J.!

Lara is my first customer to order from New York and received FREE SHIPPING! Thanks Lara for adding a pin to my virtual SJ travel map! I hope you enjoy your Sea Buckthorn Anti-Aging Facial Cream!!

xo,
Jen

New $12 Diffusers for Car and Home!

2010-04-12T15:52:00.000-07:00

NEW! CarScenter Diffusers and ScentBall Home Diffusers just in! A great way to diffuse your favorite essential oils for just $12!

A very small "test" quantity was ordered to see how well they would be received, so if you would like one, order today! Only 4 left of each!

xo,
Jen

PS - UltraSonic PRO Diffusers are on sale for $72 (Reg. $85). Only three in stock!

Ivy's Review: Sea Buckthorn Anti-Aging Facial Cream

2010-04-12T13:19:00.000-07:00

Thank you to Ivy for her beautiful review of my Sea Buckthorn Anti-Aging Facial Cream!

"I have wonderful skin I admit! I never wash my face in a ritualistic manner, and I don't moisturize...but as I approach my forties, I am starting to be concerned about wrinkles, but every time I put a moisturizer on my face, my skin gets oily and I break out! I have used every kind of product you can imagine from department store to home party products, but I always feel frustrated because of the result. I was so happy when I used this product. My skin not only felt naturally wonderful, relaxed and soft, but I do not breakout, and I am not left with an oily, waxy, fake finish. I love this product and I am so excited to have something on my face that feels natural and healthy for my skin! My husband says I look like I have been sun kissed! " -Ivy, CA

This wonderful product is currently out of stock online, but if you would like to pre-order, become a fan of my facebook page and leave a comment! A fresh new batch will be available in two weeks. Facebook fans get first dibbs!

xo,
Jen

Join the Cause!

2010-04-06T22:56:00.000-07:00

Dear friends...

On May 8, 2010, my cousin Connie is lacing up her sneakers and running the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure to raise money for the fight against breast cancer. Many special people have survived cancer because of their positive attitude and the breakthroughs in cancer research funded by Susan G. Komen for the Cure.

I created Simply Jen Naturals in order to help people eliminate harmful, cancer-causing toxins from their lives, so I thought it appropriate to support Connie in her quest.

In Connie's name...

Now through May 8th - 15% of all online sales will be donated to the Susan G. Komen Foundation to help find a cure for breast cancer!

By PURCHASING Simply Jen products, you'll be helping to fund breast cancer research. By USING Simply Jen products, you'll be helping to decrease our nation's cancer rate by reducing the use of harmful toxins! And if you need another reason to purchase Simply Jen Naturals products, remember...Mother's Day is MAY 9th!

Thank you all in advance for your support!
xo,
Jen

SJ Products travel to Tennessee!

2010-04-06T20:27:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to Jennise L.!

Jennise is my first customer to order from Tennessee and received FREE SHIPPING! She saved $16.85! Thanks Jennise for adding a pin to my virtual SJ travel map!

xo,
Jen

The Travel Adventures of SJ Products!

2010-03-12T11:40:00.000-08:00

So, I'm not the best traveled person in the world. As a child, my family took trips to several of the western states. As a teen, I visited the New England states (and absolutely LOVED it!!). And after I was married, my husband and I Honemooned in Cancun, Mexico. These days my travels consist of frequent road trips back and forth between Utah and Idaho. I've always wanted a big, stylishly-framed travel map, in muted colors on my wall with pins scattered everywhere, charting all my exciting travels! I can feel it coming...

As I was checking the stats of my new online store, it showed a map with virtual pins where my customers have ordered from! This gave me a fun idea!! Ready??

FREE shipping to any new state I ship to!

The first person in every state I have not yet shipped to will receive FREE SHIPPING! How does this work? When I receive your order, I will refund your shipping amount if I have never shipped to your state before!

The only states NOT eligible so far are:

Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Idaho, New York, Tennessee, and Utah!

If you live in these states, tell your out-of-state friends! Help me scatter virtual pins on my store's travel map! (And you [or they] will enjoy some fabulous products with FREE SHIPPING!!)

Sound like fun? I think so!

xo,
Jen

PS - If you refer a friend, have them include your name in their order details and I'll give you a special discount on your next order! ;)

Antibiotics and Atomic Bombs

2010-02-21T11:57:00.000-08:00

Those of you who have been following my blog know how I feel about antibiotics. They definitely have their place and have saved many lives, but they are completely and utterly overused.

My husband and I were talking this morning about how so many people run to antibiotics when they get sick and how traditional medicine has been so ingrained into society. In most cases people just don't know there is another way. (Or they just want a quick and easy fix).

My clever husband compared antibiotics to an atomic bomb. When there is an "invasion" in our bodies that makes us sick, most of us utilize the "atomic bomb method" of using antibiotics. The antibiotics certainly take care of the invasion. EVERYTHING is wiped out - including the good guys (your immune system). You're then left with a blank slate which is then more susceptible to a new invasion. After an atomic bomb blast, you have to rebuild. If you don't, then the vicious cycle begins.

When handling illness naturally, you have to shift your perspective. Healing naturally doesn't happen with one big pill (familiar with Z-PAK?). Yet with CONSISTENCY, healing naturally has HUGE benefits and none of the side-effects of traditional medicine.

My friend called me a few days ago. Her little nephew had a double ear infection and she was wondering what could be done to help the little guy. He had already been on antibiotics several times, and the ear infections kept returning. This made sense to me. After his first round of antibiotics, his immune system was compromised which left him susceptible to not only more ear infections, but also to picking up whatever bug was currently going around. (Later in this post I'll share the same information I shared with her).

Another key to healing naturally is PREVENTION. Prevention, in my opinion is the very best thing we can do for our families. And it's really a very easy thing to do with (here I go again) ...CONSISTENCY!!

So, with fair warning that I am NOT a doctor, and not qualified to give medical advice (however I do get medical advice from my Naturopathic doctor)...the following is what I do or would do for my own children:

If my kids had been on antibiotics, I would immediately start them on some PRO-biotics (acidophilus) to help rebuild the immune system. Acidophilus helps to repopulate the body with the good bacteria that was destroyed by the metaphorical "atomic bomb". EATING YOGURT IS NOT ENOUGH! And dairy products can aggravate ear infections, sinus infections, and respiratory infections. (My kids drink only rice milk).

PREVENTION

Good hand washing is a very beneficial practice for obvious reasons. However, there is one aspect of hand washing that a lot of people aren't aware of. ANTI-BACTERIAL SOAPS. Please throw away any antibacterial hand soaps, especially those containing Triclosan!! When Triclosan comes in contact with the small amounts of chlorine in your tap water, chloroform gas is produced. Chloroform gas is highly toxic even in small amounts. Triclosan itself is also detrimental to our environment when washed down the drain. Bad stuff all around. Anti-bacterial soaps contain dioxins (bad!) and in general act like antibiotics - killing the good along with the bad. (You can purchase my SAFE foaming hand soap here!)

Secondly, to prevent illness in my home, I use essential oils. Every night before bed, I rub Immunity of Thieves essential oil blend on the bottoms of everyone's feet. The essential oils contained in my Immunity blend are highly anti-bacterial, anti-viral, and anti-fungal. (Read more about it here). This blend also has an immune-boosting effect on the body. The oils are absorbed quickly through the bottoms of the feet and go to work to fight any "invasions" without killing the good guys! So if the Immunity oil is in your system on a regular basis, any "bug" that enters your body won't have much of a chance to turn into a problem. When I am CONSISTENT with this practice, we don't ever get sick. You can purchase my Immunity blend here.

If I haven't been CONSISTENT with the Immunity Oil on the bottoms of our feet, and we happen to catch a bug, then I'll also apply the diluted Immunity oil to the chest and back 3x a day (sometimes I'll alternate with tea tree oil as well).

If an illness seems to be a bigger deal and high fevers are involved, then I'll pull out all my "guns". In addition to using the Immunity Oil on our feet, backs, and chests 3x daily, I'll also use colloidal silver, which is a natural antibiotic. When fighting illness, we take it orally 3x daily. For sinus, respiratory, and ear infections, I spray colloidal silver up each nostril 3x per day (can also use drops instead of spray). Colloidal silver can also be applied directly into the ear canal 3x daily for ear infections. Diluted Immunity oil can be rubbed behind and in front of both ears (never inside). For respiratory infections, Lobelia tincture is my best friend! It loosens the mucus in the lungs so it can be expelled. Take a look at my naturopathic medicine cabinet! (An alternative to taking colloidal silver internally is Echinacea/Goldenseal which also works great for my family!)

My three-year old daughter became very sick this year. She had a cough, a runny nose, was vomiting, and had a fever. This went on for several days, but happened gradually. It was a very busy time in my life, and I didn't do the things I normally do to keep my kids well. Then her fever shot up to 105 degrees. She was very sick. Day two of the 105 degree fever, I was getting concerned. My well-intentioned dad called with concerns about my daughter and lovingly recommended that I get her in for some antibiotics. At first I second-guessed myself and what I have learned over the years, because I too was becoming very concerned. That's when I called my Naturopathic doctor and mentor, Brenda Grogan of The Healthy Way. She encouraged me to use the above methods. If she wasn't showing improvement within 3 days (she'd already been sick for over a week), it might be time to get her on some antibiotics. After one full day, her fever was gone and never returned, and on day two she was as good as new!

I know that with consistency, these natural healing methods work without compromising our immune systems. Sure, you'll have to change your lifestyle a little bit and get into new habits, - and maybe these methods aren't as convenient, but the payoffs are worth it! Less susceptibility to becoming sick, faster recovery times when you do get sick, and an overall stronger, healthier body for the long haul!

With all the illnesses that seem to be floating around lately, I hope this post has inspired you to try a different and better way, and that you will be among those who won't catch the current bug! If you want to try my Immunity of Thieves blend, please visit my online store!

xo,
Jen

Related Articles:
Antibacterial Soap Danger Still a Hot Topic
Antibiotics Aren't Always the Answer (NY Times)

2010-02-18T18:19:00.000-08:00

My Online Store is NOW OPEN!

I am SO excited, I can hardly contain it! My online store is finally open and just itching to process your orders! To celebrate this virtual GRAND OPENING, I am offering a special discount! For 20% off of $75, enter 20OFF75 at checkout. For 10% off $45, enter 10OFF45 at checkout. These coupon codes are valid through February 28, 2010.

And please, feel free to contact me if you have any questions, special requests, or product suggestions! I have created my online store to make ordering more convenient for my customers - NOT to eliminate my interaction with you, which I so enjoy!

Thank you all for your continued support!

xo,
Jen

Your Feedback is Needed!

2010-02-02T19:35:00.000-08:00

I just had an idea! How would all you Immunity of Thieves fans like an Immunity of Thieves STICK? It would come in the same super-sized lip balm tube as my First-Aid stick. A swipe across the bottoms of feet and down the spine, and you're good to go! Please comment if this is of interest to you! If there is enough interest, I will make it happen! ♥

xo,
Jen

PS - Since the stick would not be able to be diluted, what strength would you be most interested in? 1:4 like my diluted oil, or a milder version for ease of use on children? Maybe both?

First-Aid Sticks!

2010-01-29T10:49:00.000-08:00

We're cooking up goodness in the Simply Jen kitchen today! On the menu:

FIRST AID STICKS!

My First-Aid Stick is an antibacterial, antiseptic, and regenerative salve for cuts, scrapes, abrasions, bug bites, rashes, diaper rash, dry, cracked skin, and eczema.

One customer even rubs the stick along her forehead to whisk away headaches! Click here to read her full testimonial!

Ingredients: Beeswax, Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Sunflower Oil, TAMANU OIL, CALENDULA OIL, SHEA BUTTER, SEA BUCKTHORN OIL, ROSEHIP SEED OIL, and essential oils. 100% natural ingredients.

If you would like to order a First-Aid Stick ($12), click here!

PS - This photo shows the size of the first-aid stick (.65 oz) compared to a standard .15 oz SJ lip balm. This stick lasts a long time.

SJ Survey plus 20% off!

2010-01-15T12:56:00.000-08:00

Hi there, Simply Jen fans!

I just finished creating my first survey for Simply Jen products and I'm so excited! I've been thinking a lot about my product line, wondering what new products I should add, and if customers feel good about the prices of each product. The bottom line is - I want to know what you guys are thinking so I can make my products better in every way.

So...this first survey is a quick little 10-question, 3-minute survey to find out what you guys think of the current product line and how each product is priced.

Later I'd love to know what you guys think of the current scents offered and how I can better cater to your preferences! I'm also going to want to know what new products you would like to see added! I'm thinking of completing my baby line with diaper creams, baby powder, and eventually baby wipes. I want to add facial cleansers, as well as household cleaners! And of course there are deodorants, toothpastes, perfumes, makeup, and nail polish! The idea of formulating new stuff really gets me giddy! But for now, I'll pull back on the reigns and focus on this first itty-bitty survey. First things first.

So, pretty please...take this quick survey, and I'll reward you with 20% off your next order!!

Click here to begin the survey!

Loves!
Jen

PS - If you have anything to say about my big plans for expanding my product line, feel free to pipe up! There's no need to hold back for the next survey! :)

Sea Buckthorn Anti-Aging Facial Cream

2010-01-08T14:54:00.001-08:00

I'm rubbing my arms after a couple of hours in the kitchen...and boy do they feel soft! My faithful assistant (Mom) and I just got done making a beautiful batch of my Sea Buckthorn Facial Cream. I've never introduced this product online before, so while my arms are still soft and the cream is still warm, I thought I'd do a little SJSBAFC 101....um...yeah, bad acronym. (Simply Jen Sea Buckthorn Anti-aging Facial Cream 101). Here goes:

Sea Buckthorn Oil is a natural source of vitamin A, Vitamin E and several other tocopherols. It is reputed to be one of the best sources of natural antioxidants due to the high content of Vitamin C. Sea buckthorn oil effectively combats wrinkles, dryness, and other symptoms of dry, aged skin. It can also be used to promote healing of burns, eczema and small cuts or wounds. In addition, the UV-spectrum of the oil shows a moderate absorption in the UV-B range which makes sea buckthorn derived products attractive for sun care cosmetics.

Pomegranate Seed Extract can promote skin regeneration, stimulate self repair mechanisms, improve skin elasticity, and reduce wrinkles. Pomegranate Seed Oil has calming properties and is therefore useful in skin soothing formulas.

Calendula has great anti-inflammatory properties and vulnerary properties, making it excellent for help with stubborn wounds, ulcers, bed sores, varicose veins, bruises, rashes, eczema etc. This oil is great to help with sore, inflamed and itchy skin conditions, also for burns, eczema and diaper rash, as well as sore cracked nipples. It is also used to treat thread and spider veins as well as varicose veins. It has great healing, soothing and softening qualities.

Aloe Vera Juice is anti-inflammatory, anti- bacterial, and anti-viral. Aloe vera contains protein, calcium, magnesium, zinc, vitamins A, B12 and E, essential fatty acids and is naturally rich in Vitamin C, Amino acids, Enzymes (which are the life-principle in every live, organic atom and molecule of natural raw food, rejuvenate aged tissues and promote healthy skin). Aloe vera juice is said to be one of the finest body cleansers. The benefits of aloe vera are manifold. Aloe vera is used to treat first-degree burns for speedy healing. Aloe vera is used to shrink warts and lessen the painful effects of shingles. The symptoms of psoriasis can be reduced with aloe vera.

Here is the complete ingredient list for you label-readers (like me):
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Distilled Water, Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Seed Oil , Apricot Prunus Armeniaca (Apricot) Kernel Oil, Cetearyl Olivate and Sorbitan Olivate (an emulsifier naturally derived from olive oil), Vegetable Glycerin, Hippophae Rhamnoides (Sea Buckthorn) Oil, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea Butter) Fruit, Calendula Officinalis Flower Extract and Olea Europaea (Olive) Fruit Oil, Polyaminopropyl Biguanide (a gentle, paraben-free and formaldehyde-free preservative), Xanthan Gum, Punica Granatum (Pomegranate) Seed Extract, Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Extract

The actual label reads:

Directions for Use:
Apply to a clean face and neck at night and before applying makeup in the morning.

Store in a cool, dry place.
Use within three months of purchase date.

My Sea Buckthorn Anti-Aging Facial Cream contains omega fatty acids 3, 6, 7, and 9. These omega fatty acids are vital for cellular support. They help boost collagen production and keep free radicals at bay. Pomegranate This light, silky, non-greasy cream is ideal for daily use and has a light citrus scent. It is free of parabens, petrochemicals, artificial colors or fragrances!

PACKAGING:
1.7 oz Airless Bottle

PRICE: $27.00

As of this very moment, I have 10 available.

If you would like to purchase a this facial cream, you may do so here!

Now what?

2010-01-06T16:40:00.000-08:00

I bought your Immunity of Thieves Oil...now what?

If this is a question you're asking, this post is for you! Here is a list of things this oil is good for, and how to use it!

COLDS/BRONCHITIS/PNEUMONIA - Rub (diluted) on chest, neck, and bottoms of feet. Diffuse.

FLU - Rub (diluted) on chest, neck, down spine, and bottoms of feet. Diffuse.

CANKERS & COLD SORES - Apply directly to sores.

TOOTH ACHES - Apply directly to affected tooth and gum area.

ACNE/BOILS - Apply (diluted) directly to blemish.

ATHLETES FOOT - Apply directly to fungal infection.

NAIL FUNGUS - Apply UNdiluted to affected and neighboring nails twice daily EVERY day.

MOLD - Apply directly to moldy surface. Diffuse.

HEADACHES - Apply 1 drop to thumb and press to roof of mouth.

AIR PURIFIER: Diffuse 20 minutes daily to purify the air.

SHINGLES - Rub diluted onto skin.

HOUSEHOLD CLEANING - Apply to wet washcloth and wipe counters to disinfect. Combine with baking soda to clean toilets, sinks, and bathtubs. Add to mop water to disinfect floors. Wipe door handles, or any other surface disinfect and keep germs at bay!

INSECT DETERRENT - Dilute with water in a spray bottle. Shake well and spray onto clothing to deter insects. Or apply diluted all over skin. Also works for deterring insects from plants.

GUMMY RESIDUE REMOVER - Apply to sticky residue and rub with a cloth.

GUM DISEASE PREVENTION- Apply 1 drop (undiluted) or 5 drops (diluted) to toothbrush and brush teeth well at each brushing. (Can add to toothpaste or use alone).

BEE STINGS - Apply to bee sting for pain relief.

ORAL HEALTH & CAVITY REDUCER - Apply 1 drop (undiluted) or 5 drops (diluted) to toothbrush and brush teeth well at each brushing. (Can add to toothpaste or use alone).

LOCAL PAIN RELIEF - Apply diluted to painful area. Great for broken bone pain, muscle pain, and arthritis pain as well!

SMOKING CESSATION - Apply a drop to tongue as needed or when craving.

WARTS - Apply directly to wart daily.

ARTHRITIS PAIN - Rub (diluted) into painful joints.

COLD & FLU PREVENTION - Rub on the bottoms of feet daily to prevent colds and flu.

LARYNGITIS - Apply a drop under tongue to help restore the voice.

ALLERGY RELIEF: Diffuse.

POISON IVY RASH: Apply (diluted) directly to rash to relieve itching

PERMANENT MARKER REMOVAL: Apply to a cloth and rub away marking.

ANT REPELLENT: Spray along ant trails to keep them away.

CLOTHING STAIN REMOVER: Apply (undiluted only) to stain before laundering.

To purchase, send an email to: shopsimplyjen@gmail.com

Do you have something to add to this list that you have successfully used the oil for? Do tell! :)

FDA Disclaimer

The statements made on our websites have not been evaluated by the FDA (U.S. Food & Drug Administration). Our products are not intended to diagnose, cure or prevent any disease.

If a condition persists, please contact your physician. The information provided by this website or this company is not a substitute for a face-to-face consultation with your physician, and should not be construed as individual medical advice. The testimonials on this website are individual cases and do not guarantee that you will get the same results.

Immunity Oils Back in Stock!

2009-12-31T00:21:00.000-08:00

A fresh new batch of Immunity of Thieves oils are BACK IN STOCK! This blend of essential oils is highly anti-viral, anti-bacterial, and anti-fungal. A GREAT way to guard against colds, flu's and much more!

These sell like hot cakes, so if you are interested, order quickly. I only have a limited number of these available until I blend the next batch!

½ ounce full strength $20
1 ounce pre-diluted $15 (Comes with a glass dropper - not a screw cap as shown)
2 ounce pre-diluted $23.

Wishing you and yours a HAPPY & HEALTHY New Year!!!

xo,
Jen