( ENSPIRE She Did That ) Bailey-Tweed Shares Her Health Journey Through Essential Oils
ENSPIRE Contributor: Gabrielle Maya
Andrea Bailey-Tweed, the CEO of Earth’s Own Essentials, didn’t let her health challenges deter her from her entrepreneurial dreams. When bedridden, Bailey-Tweed gave birth to her business, a testament to her unwavering determination and resilience. During her childhood, she was constantly sick and had to take medicine and see doctors. When working for the United States Government as a Communications Officer, she grew sicker than ever. Bailey-Tweed quit her job, went through countless surgeries, and ended up in a wheelchair, bedridden, wondering if she’ll ever heal. Then, one fateful day, she decided to take her health back.
Bailey researched holistic treatments and soon gained control of her life, returning to school. Her ambitions to become a certified aroma therapist helped with her self-care journey. Now she wants to share her strategies with the world. Bailey-Tweed shares her health journey, how she began Earth’s Own Essentials, holistic methods that may be better alternatives to modern medicine, and aromatherapy. In addition, she dabbles in her favorite oils, body butters, and hydrosols, their benefits, and how they can help you physically and mentally.
Could you share your health journey, how you started Earth’s Own Essentials and the highs and lows of healing and starting a business?
I had a sudden onset health issue that progressively got worse. Years later, following multiple surgeries and severe reactions to the medications I had been prescribed, I found myself suffering from chronic musculoskeletal pain, which was rapidly debilitating. I began to look for alternative methods to save myself. I knew if I continued on the path I was taking, I would die.
One night, my grandmother came to me in a dream and reminded me of how she had used herbs and oils for health our entire lives. I began to study Aromatherapy, and once I started to regain strength and function, I promised to support as many people suffering as I could, and that’s what I try to do.
There are highs and lows in life; that’s a given. Fighting for my health was a “give it all you got” situation. I wanted to live a healthy and functional life. It was an intense battle, but I was fully committed to giving all I had because the alternative was unacceptable. I came out on this side a more robust, different person. I wanted to share the knowledge I obtained and to help as many people as I could who needed support.
With Earth’s Own Essentials, I recreated myself. There are days I truly want to give up and call it quits. There are days when I feel on top of the world! I can help each other find a safe way to improve their health, which is a win for me!
What are some interesting facts about holistic methods that few people know about, and how are they better alternatives to modern medicine?
Holistic methods encompass a broad range of practices aimed at treating the entire terrain of the person (mental, physical, and emotional) rather than just the symptoms of a specific ailment. Some facts about holistic practices and how they can be highly advantageous are:
Holistic methods incorporate an individualized approach, considering each client’s unique needs and circumstances. This personalized approach can lead to more effective formulations that address the root causes of health issues rather than just managing symptoms.
Furthermore, holistic methods strongly emphasize prevention, focusing on lifestyle factors such as nutrition, exercise, stress management, and emotional well-being to maintain health and prevent illnesses. People may reduce their risk of developing chronic diseases by addressing these factors proactively.
Holistic practitioners recognize the interconnectedness of the mind, body, and spirit. Techniques such as mindfulness, meditation, and biofeedback aim to harness the power of the mind-body connection to promote healing and well-being. Research suggests these practices can profoundly affect physical and mental health and overall quality of life. They empower individuals to take an active role in their health and well-being.
Many holistic therapies utilize natural remedies and noninvasive techniques to promote healing. Aromatherapy, botanical and/or herbal medicines, and therapeutic massage are commonly used to support and stimulate the body’s innate healing mechanisms without the side effects associated with pharmaceutical drugs or invasive procedures.
What is Aromatherapy, and how do you start putting it into your daily routine? What are the benefits?
Aromatherapy is a holistic healing practice that uses natural plant extracts. It’s typically used as an essential oil to promote physical, emotional, and mental well-being. These essential oils are derived from various plant parts, such as flowers, leaves, stems, roots, and fruits. They are known for their distinct aromas. However, not the aroma but the chemical constituents and therapeutic properties sustain health and well-being.
To start incorporating Aromatherapy into your daily routine, select a few essential oils that resonate with you. Next, make sure they align with your specific needs or preferences, or consult a Certified Aromatherapist to help you choose oils.
Common essential oils used in Aromatherapy include lavender for relaxation, peppermint for energy and focus, eucalyptus for respiratory support, and citrus oils like lemon or orange for mood enhancement.
There are several ways to enjoy the benefits of Aromatherapy. The most common is using an essential oil diffuser to disperse the aroma throughout a room. Another is topical application. Essential oils are diluted with a carrier oil (such as coconut or jojoba oil) and applied to the skin through massage or targeted application to areas of concern.
The benefits of Aromatherapy can vary depending on the essential oils used and the individual’s response. Still, some potential benefits include stress reduction, improved sleep, mood enhancement, pain reduction/relief, and respiratory support.
What are some of your favorite oils, body butter, and hydrosols that you have used to regain your overall health and wellness?
Frankincense is my overall favorite, followed by helichrysum, Roman and German Chamomile, Bergamot, and Yuzu. But I love them all! I am a fan of shea butter, and I use Rose and Lavender Hydrosols daily. Hydrosols are less potent than essential oils but have chemical constituents that support wellness. I would also choose a hydrosol to support a young child rather than use essential oils because they are less potent.
Based on your expertise, what are the best essential oils, body butter, and hydrosols for beginners?
For beginners exploring essential oils, body butter, and hydrosols, starting with versatile options that are widely available, safe, and easy to use is helpful.
Essential Oils
- Lavender: is known for its calming and soothing properties. It is excellent for promoting relaxation, reducing stress, easing pain, and supporting sleep.
- Peppermint: It has a refreshing and invigorating scent that can help boost energy, improve focus, alleviate headaches, and ease pain.
- Lemon: Its bright and uplifting aroma enhances mood, purifies the air, fights germs, and provides a natural energy boost.
- Tea Tree: Has powerful antimicrobial properties and is commonly used for its cleansing and purifying effects on the skin.
- Eucalyptus: This is renowned for its respiratory benefits and is often used to ease congestion. Can clear the sinuses, and support overall respiratory health.
Body Butters
- Shea Butter: Shea butter is popular as body butter due to its rich, moisturizing properties. It’s deeply hydrating, nourishing, and suitable for all skin types, including dry and sensitive skin.
- Cocoa Butter: Cocoa butter has a luxurious texture and a delicious chocolate aroma. It’s hydrating and smoothing and can help improve skin elasticity and tone.
- Mango Butter: Mango butter is lightweight yet deeply moisturizing, making it an excellent choice for hydrating the skin without feeling greasy. It’s high in antioxidants and vitamins, promoting healthy skin.
- Coconut Oil: While technically not butter, coconut oil is a versatile moisturizer that can be used alone or blended with other ingredients to create body butter. It’s nourishing and soothing and absorbs quickly into the skin.
Hydrosols
- Rose Hydrosol: Is prized for its delicate floral scent and skin-soothing properties. It’s hydrating and balancing and can help refresh and tone the skin.
- Lavender Hydrosol: has a calming aroma and is gentle on the skin, making it suitable for all skin types, including sensitive and irritated skin. It can help soothe inflammation and promote relaxation. It is excellent for spraying on pillows before bedtime for a good night’s sleep.
- Chamomile Hydrosol: Is renowned for its anti-inflammatory and calming effects on the skin. It’s particularly beneficial for soothing sensitive or inflamed skin conditions.
- Peppermint Hydrosol: It has a refreshing and cooling sensation on the skin, making it ideal for hot weather or after physical activity. It can help invigorate the senses and refresh the skin.
- These are just a few options to consider as you begin your journey with essential oils, body butter, and hydrosols. Always follow safety guidelines when using these products.
Could you explain the importance of undiluted and diluted essential/ carrier oils and their difference? What are the guidelines?
Understanding the difference between undiluted and diluted essential oils and carrier oils is crucial for safe and effective use in aromatherapy and skincare formulations.
Undiluted essential oils are pure, concentrated extracts derived from plants through methods like steam distillation or cold pressing. These oils are highly potent and can be too strong to apply directly to the skin without dilution. Using undiluted essential oils directly on the skin can cause irritation, sensitization, or even burns, especially for people with sensitive skin. Undiluted or pure essential oils are typically used in small quantities and are often diluted with a carrier oil, lotion, or other base before topical application.
Diluted Essential Oils: Diluted essential oils have been mixed with a carrier oil or other suitable base to reduce their potency and make them safer for topical use.
Dilution helps spread the essential oil over a larger area, enhances absorption into the skin, and reduces the risk of adverse reactions. The concentration of the diluted essential oil will depend on the specific application and the individual’s sensitivity level. Diluted essential oils are commonly used in massage, bath blends, and skincare products.
Carrier Oils: Carrier oils are neutral, vegetable-based oils that serve as a base to dilute essential oils for safe topical application. Carrier oils help “carry” the essential oil into the skin, diluting its potency while providing additional nourishment and moisturization. Common carrier oils include jojoba oil, coconut oil, sweet almond oil, olive oil, and avocado oil. The carriers themselves don’t need dilution. When choosing a carrier oil, consider skin type, absorption rate, shelf life, and potential allergies or sensitivities.
Guidelines for Dilution: The recommended dilution ratio for essential oils varies depending on the individual’s age, skin sensitivity, the specific essential oil used, and the intended application.
As a general guideline, most essential oils should be diluted to a concentration of 1-3% for topical use in adults. This typically equates to 1-3 drops of essential oil per teaspoon (5 ml) of carrier oil. Lower dilution ratios, such as 0.5-2%, are best for children, older people, or individuals with sensitive skin.
Some essential oils are more potent than others and may require even greater dilution. For specific dilution guidelines, refer to reputable sources and consult a qualified aromatherapist or healthcare professional.
What are proprietary blends, and what are they used for and help with?
Proprietary blends are specially created formulations of essential oils or other natural products made by an Aromatherapist or company. These blends combine multiple crucial oils in specific ratios to achieve a desired therapeutic effect or aromatic profile. The exact composition of proprietary blends is often kept confidential by the manufacturer, hence the term “proprietary.” The blends are usually created to provide specific therapeutic effects for physical wellness, immune support, chronic pain relief, digestive health, emotional support, dermatological conditions, or other issues.
Are there any future promotions you can tell us about Earth’s Own Essentials?
I am a small business owner who wears many hats. Right now, my major focus is taking care of my clients and customers and providing local training opportunities. I ensure they are well cared for and supported and know that I am available.
That is the biggest promotion I can provide at this time.
Could you name a few oils that help with many ailments, specific for muscle pain, soreness, relaxation, allergies, and more?
Physical Health
- Muscle Pain & Soreness: Essential oils like lavender, peppermint, eucalyptus, and rosemary can help relieve muscle pain, soreness, and tension.
- Respiratory Issues: Eucalyptus, Peppermint, Spearmint, Tea Tree, and Thyme essential oils can support respiratory health and ease symptoms of congestion, coughs, flu, and sinusitis.
- Digestive Discomfort: Peppermint, Ginger, Fennel, Yarrow, and Chamomile oils help alleviate digestive issues such as indigestion, bloating, and nausea.
- Skin Conditions: Tea Tree, Lavender, Frankincense, Chamomile, and Helichrysum oils have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that can help with acne, eczema, psoriasis, and other skin conditions.
- Headaches & Migraines: Peppermint, Lavender, Eucalyptus, and Chamomile oils may help relieve headache and migraine symptoms.
- Joint Pain & Inflammation: Ginger, Turmeric, Frankincense, and Chamomile oils can help reduce inflammation and alleviate joint pain associated with arthritis and other conditions.
- Menstrual Cramps & PMS: Clary Sage, Lavender, Marjoram, and Ginger oils can help relieve menstrual cramps and symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS).
- Insomnia & Sleep Disorders: Lavender, Chamomile, Cedarwood, and Valerian oils have calming and soothing effects that promote relaxation and improve sleep quality.
Emotional & Mental Health
- Stress & Anxiety: Lavender, Chamomile, Bergamot, May Chang, and Frankincense oils can help reduce feelings of stress, anxiety, and tension.
- Depression: Citrus oils like Bergamot, Lemon, and Orange, as well as floral oils like Rose and Jasmine, can help uplift mood and alleviate depression symptoms.
- Fatigue & Mental Exhaustion: Peppermint, Rosemary, Lemon, Grapefruit, and Eucalyptus oils are invigorating and can help increase energy levels and mental alertness.
- Focus & Concentration: Rosemary, Peppermint, Basil, and Lemon essential oils have stimulating properties that improve focus, concentration, and cognitive function.
- Mood Swings and Emotional Imbalance: Geranium, Ylang Ylang, Clary Sage, and Patchouli oils can help balance emotions and promote emotional stability.
- Trauma & Grief: Frankincense, Sandalwood, Cedarwood, and Rose essential oils are grounding and can provide comfort and support during grief or trauma.
Where do you see the future of this company? Will any new products be added to the site?
It is my goal and that of the company to go as far as we can. There are no limits. Seeing essential oils and Aromatherapy utilized regularly in pain clinics, hospitals, and palliative and hospice care. I also plan to create a different Wellness Clinic focusing on holistic therapies and care.
I look forward to supporting more clients and helping individuals understand the power they have within themselves to navigate and support their healthcare. While essential oils are not a substitute for medical treatment, they can be used as complementary therapies to promote well-being and help the body’s natural healing processes. There is room for us all in matters of health and well-being.
Essential oils offer holistic support for many health and wellness needs, providing effective relief without the risk of side effects. The oils seamlessly integrate into your body’s systems, offering therapeutic benefits as they enter and exit, leaving behind a gentle yet potent support trail. Equally as important, their accessibility and affordability make them a valuable addition to any wellness routine, offering a natural and cost-effective way to enhance your overall well-being.
Visit Earth’s Own Essentials for your venture into holistic remedies, which include essential oils, body butter, hydrosols, and more. Follow on Instagram for additional updates and health tips.
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