07/13/2020
Let’s talk B R A I N health. || 🧠
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This subject LIGHTS. ME. UP! 💡
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For those of you that are new here, my background is in speech pathology. I worked for over 8 years of my career as a medical-based with a speciality in stroke, brain injury, neurodegenerative diseases, + cognitive rehab. The brain and all it’s intricacies are just so fascinating to me.
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Did you know that certain doTERRA essential oils can influence this vital organ by passing from the blood into the brain?! The blood brain barrier is the most secure tissue barrier in all the body - it’s highly selective in an effort to protect the fragile tissues of the central nervous system. This barrier only allows passage of certain compounds that are crucial to brain function (glucose, some amino acids, etc.).
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But how amazing is this — novel research has demonstrated that certain sesquiterpene constituents found in essential oils can directly cross the blood brain barrier because of their small molecular size! Anecdotal evidence also suggests that other essential oil compounds, like monoterpenes (structurally even smaller than sesquiterpenes), can also pe*****te the blood brain barrier!
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A few of my favorite ways to support the brain are as follows: (continued in comments) •
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• Keep it active! As a forever student, I love using oils such as Sandalwood, Vetiver, and In-tune to help with focus during brain-stimulating activities like meditation, reading, and journalling. •
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• Heal the gut! Did you know that a large majority of your feel good hormones reside in the gut? A healthy gut = a healthy mind! I choose to eat a mostly plant-based diet rich in vitamins, nutrients, and essential fatty acids (and supplement with dōTERRA’s Life Long Vitality pack which includes omegas for brain health!). I eliminate inflammatory foods such as gluten, dairy, refined sugar, and processed foods, as they increase inflammation in the brain (+ the infamous brain fog). •
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• Get your rest! Sleep plays such a vital role in brain health. I use oils such as Lavender, Serenity, + Cedarwood to ensure a restful nights sleep. •
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• Diffuse your oils! Diffusing is a powerful way to influence the brain by way of the limbic system. My favorite brainy oils are my beloved Frankincense, Copaiba, Patchouli, and Rosemary. •
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• Fuel your foundation! As I noted above, I choose to supplement with doTERRA’s LLV, but I also add in supplements for gut health (PB Assist + Terrazyme) as well as those for targeted brain support such as Turmeric Dual Chamber capsules + DDR Prime! •
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To learn more about brain health, visit https://www.doterra.com/US/en/empowered-life-series-mind-over-matter •
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Medical Disclaimer: This information is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
