Files of Info

Monday, November 14, 2016

Vaccine Research

Vaccine Research

I've been meaning to start this file for awhile now, but I keep thinking "I'll do it when I finish researching this vaccine or that vaccine..." I've discovered that you'll never truly be doing researching vaccines so I decided to just get this file up and running for anyone who needs the research *now*. I'll be updating as I find new information and this isn't nearly all I have so if you need links on something but dont see it here comment or pm me (Helen Stafford) and I'll see if I have stuff that hasn't been added yet.

I will be adding more to this as I have time. I have hundreds of links that are *not* sorted at all so it is going to take me awhile to build this file, but it has begun!

Getting Started on Your Own Research
(added by request) There is no good place to start with vaccine research. There is just too much to jump into all of it at once. So, when people ask, this is usually what I tell them: Start with the disease that scares you the most, the disease that you are considering vaccinating against. Look at the actual disease. What happens when you catch the disease? What are the symptoms, complications, side effects, negatives or positives to catching the disease, what are the current treatments available for it, how long does it last, what are the death rates of the disease for the last 5, 10, 15, 20 years? Once you have an idea of what you are dealing with, if you or your child caught the disease, look at the vaccine. I always encourage looking at the vaccine insert first. There is so much information there including complcations, risks, side effects, dangers... Look at how many coplications/reactions and deaths have happend in the last year (more if you're up to it) for that specific vaccine. Look at how many children have been negavitely affected by the vaccine, find out how effective the vaccine is to preventing the disease its supposed to protect against. How often do you have to recieve a booster shot for the vaccine? How many deaths are caused by the vaccine? Once you have looked at the disease vs. the vaccine you'll have a pretty good idea of which one has a higher risk for your family and then you can make an informed decision on whether or not to get that vaccination for you or your child. Repeat as needed for any other disease/vaccine combo.

If you are wanting to start doing your own vaccine research, I *highly* recommend you join this group. Check out their files section for hundreds, if not thousands of links on all the vaccines. Also doing a search for a disease/vaccine while using a computer will filter all the threads and pull up the ones that discuss that vaccine/disease and you might find other helpful links or information there as well.

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=770323119687205

Chicken Pox

February 2013. Children catching diseases they are vaccinated against: http://preventdisease.com/news/13/020113_Children-Worldwide-Are-Contracting-The-Very-Diseases-They-Are-Being-Vaccinating-Against.shtml

Measles

About Measles, from CDC: http://www.cdc.gov/measles/about/
Benefits of Measles: http://vaxtruth.org/2015/01/measles-benefits/
Complications of Measles: http://www.cdc.gov/measles/about/complications.html
Complications: measles vaccine & inflamatory bowl dissease increase, page 27, figure 28: http://preventdisease.com/news/pdf/InfectiousDiseaseVaccines.pdf
Disease decline chart, page 10: http://www.columbia.edu/itc/hs/pubhealth/rosner/g8965/client_edit/readings/week_2/mckinlay.pdf

Vaccinated getting measles

1983, 21 Illinois kids get measles and were previously vaccinated: http://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/preview/mmwrhtml/00000359.htm
1985, 14 Texas kids get measles and were previously vaccinated: http://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJM198703263161303
More on 1985, 14 Texas kids get measles and were previously vaccinated: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/3821823
More on 1985, 14 Texas kids get measles... page 18, figure 19: http://preventdisease.com/news/pdf/InfectiousDiseaseVaccines.pdf
1985, Measles outbreak in Montana: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/3618578
1988, Measles outbreak in Colorado: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/1994745
1989, Measles outbreak in Quebec despite a 99% vaccine coverage: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/1884314
1992, Measles outbreak in Cape Town, South Africa, vaccine coverage 91%: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/7740350
2011, Quebec, Canada, active case finding identified 130% more cases among 2-dose recipients: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23264672
http://vaccineimpact.com/2015/dr-suzanne-humphries-m-d-vaccine-strain-of-measles-virus-found-in-measles-outbreaks/

Deaths from measles

2001-2003, 2 deaths from Measles:http://www.cdc.gov/MMWR/preview/mmwrhtml/mm5331a3.htm

Reported cases of measles

1954-2008, Graph of measles cases reported:http://www.historyofvaccines.org/content/graph-us-measles-cases
2013 Measles report, 159 Measles Cases Reported, USA: http://www.nvic.org/NVIC-Vaccine-News/September-2013/Measles-Reports-in-America--What-Does-It-Mean-.aspx

Car Seat Safety

Car Seat Safety

I shared that one RF car seat image on a ton of groups and had a lot of moms asking about ERF info so I thought I'd put together a file on the info for moms to reference too. :) If you have anything to add please leave a link in the comments!! Thanks! -admin

AAP Car Seat Policy Statement (March 21, 2011)

http://pediatrics.aappublications.org/content/early/2011/03/21/peds.2011-0213.full.pdf+html
Rear facing recommended until at least 2 years: http://pediatrics.aappublications.org/content/127/4/e1050.full
http://www.aap.org/en-us/about-the-aap/aap-press-room/Pages/AAP-Updates-Recommendation-on-Car-Seats.aspx

Rear Facing Front Collision

http://thecarseatlady.com/why-ride-rear-facing/

Rear Facing Side Collision

http://thecarseatlady.com/why-ride-rear-facing/
http://www.rearfacing.co.uk/expertquotes.php

Rear Facing Rear Collision

http://www.car-safety.org/rearface.html
http://carseatnanny.blogspot.com/2012/01/is-rear-facing-safer-when-youre-rear.html

Rear Facing vs. Forward Facing

http://thecarseatlady.com/why-ride-rear-facing/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qqdtdHmW338
http://injuryprevention.bmj.com/content/13/6/398.abstract

Myths about Rear Facing

http://csftl.org/rear-facing-car-seat-myths-busted/
http://www.pistachioproject.com/2012/09/crash-course-benefits-of-extended-rear.html

Less Leg/Extremity Injuries in RF

http://www.unece.org/fileadmin/DAM/trans/doc/2002/wp29grsp/Injuries_in_FFCRS_final.pdf
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/m/pubmed/16966993/

Safer to ride RF

http://aapnews.aappublications.org/content/30/4/12.2.full
http://carseatblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/12/rear-facingforbestprotection.pdf
http://csftl.org/why-rear-facing-the-science-junkies-guide/
http://thecarseatlady.com/5-times-safer/
http://injuryprevention.bmj.com/content/13/6/398.abstract
http://www.beseatsmart.org/stage1/rear-facing-seat.php
http://www.rearfacingtoddlers.com/why-rear-facing-is-safer.html

Neck & Spine Injury Information

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3256844/
http://www.neurosurgery.org/sections/section.aspx?Section=PD&Page=ped_spine.asp

Seat Recommendations and Information

http://www.healthychildren.org/English/safety-prevention/on-the-go/pages/Car-Safety-Seats-Information-for-Families.aspx
http://www.healthychildren.org/English/safety-prevention/on-the-go/pages/Car-Safety-Seats-Product-Listing.aspx

Installing a car seat

http://www.pistachioproject.com/2012/09/crash-course-installing-car-seat.html

Check that your car seat is properly installed

http://www.seatcheck.org/
http://www.safercar.gov/cpsApp/cps/index.htm

Avoid bulky coats and puffy coats in car seats

http://www.whec.com/article/stories/s3650674.shtml

Layering to keep warm & cold weather tips:

http://thecarseatlady.com/warmandsafe/
http://csftl.org/hello-winter-good-bye-coats/
http://thecarseatlady.com/cold-weather-tips/

Correct Harness Use

http://www.carseatsite.com/correct_harness_use.htm
5 point harness: http://www.cpsafety.com/articles/fivepointshield.aspx

Videos to share on why RF is important

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y2DVfqFhseo

http://thecarseatlady.com/why-ride-rear-facing/

GMO Info

GMO Info

GMO = genetically modified organizims. In other words, not natural, not normal, not healthy.

GMO's are NOT safe

http://articles.mercola.com/sites/articles/archive/2013/08/06/genetic-modification.aspx
http://www.responsibletechnology.org/10-Reasons-to-Avoid-GMOs
http://www.responsibletechnology.org/gmo-dangers/health-risks/articles-about-risks-by-jeffrey-smith/Doctors-Warn-Avoid-Genetically-Modified-Food-May-2009
http://www.globalresearch.ca/former-pro-gmo-scientist-speaks-out-on-the-real-dangers-of-genetically-engineered-food/5424010
http://foodrevolution.org/blog/former-pro-gmo-scientist/
http://www.gmeducation.org/blog/p213452-ex-biotech-scientist-gives-ted-talk-on-the-dangers-of-gmos.html
http://www.livestrong.com/article/200114-what-are-the-dangers-of-gmo-soybeans/
http://www.i-sis.org.uk/Syngenta_Charged_for_Covering_Up_Livestock_Deaths_from_GM_Corn.php

Research

http://enhs.umn.edu/current/5103/gm/character.html
http://www.psrast.org/dnauptakechick.htm
http://www.nature.com/nbt/journal/v22/n2/full/nbt934.html

The "Other Side" of the Story
From the pro-GMO side.

http://geneticliteracyproject.org/2013/10/08/with-2000-global-studies-confirming-safety-gm-foods-among-most-analyzed-subject-in-science/
http://www.ilsi.org/FoodBioTech/Publications/10_ILSI2008_CaseStudies_CRFSFS.pdf

Elimination Communication

Elimination Communication (EC)

What is EC?
Elimination Communication, or EC, is based on the idea that babies are born with the instinct not to soil themselves. Have you ever noticed that a newborn baby seems to urinate as soon as his or her diaper is removed? There is a reason for that! By communicating with your baby about his or her need to eliminate, you can help your baby retain his or her natural body awareness, preventing the process of training them to go in a diaper, then retraining them, often several years later, to go in the toilet instead.

The following resources should be very helpful if you are interested in learning more. Some members here have practiced EC or a modified version of it with their children, so feel free to post on the main wall for discussion on this.

Books:

The Diaper Free Baby by Christine Gross-Loh
http://www.amazon.com/The-Diaper-Free-Baby-Training-Alternative/dp/0061229709

Diaper Free: The Gentle Wisdom of Natural Infant Hygiene by Ingrid Bauer
http://www.amazon.com/Diaper-Free-Gentle-Natural-Hygiene/dp/0452287774

Go Diaper Free (e-book) by Andrea Olson, M.A.
http://godiaperfree.com/elimination-communication-book/

Websites:

http://www.diaperfreebaby.org

http://tribalbaby.org

A great blog article by Nathan M. McTague:http://locallocale.wordpress.com/2010/10/07/diaper-free-is-the-way-to-be-elimination-communication-romy-mcgahan-daniel-family-services/

Have you heard about the dangers of early potty training? Here is an article that addresses some of those concerns: http://www.parentingscience.com/science-of-toilet-training.html

This article discusses how the age at which a child "should" be out of diapers varies by culture and decade: http://everydaylife.globalpost.com/age-should-toddler-out-diapers-2596.html

Elimination Communication Facebook group:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/eliminationcommunication/

Menstural Cloth & Cups

Menstural Cloth & Cups

Info for finding products to buy or doing your own research to choose which cup might work best for you. (Mamas who use mama cloth/cups comment what you like or use!)

*I've found these recommended on other pages.

Cloth Products
-GladRags: http://gladrags.com/
-Holy Sponge (menstral kits specifically mentioned): https://www.facebook.com/spongekits
-Munchki Fluff: https://www.facebook.com/MunchkiFluff
-Orgo Pads: https://www.facebook.com/Orgoclothpads
-Party In My Pants: http://partypantspads.com/
-Pink Daisy Pads: http://pinkdaisygirl.com/product/stay-dry-feminine-pads/
-Trojacek Farms (Etsy): https://www.etsy.com/shop/TrojacekFarms

Cups
-Diva Cup: http://divacup.com/
-MeLuna Cup USA: https://www.facebook.com/MeLuna.US
-Moon Cup: http://www.mooncup.co.uk/
-Sckooncup: https://www.facebook.com/SckoonCup

Alternative Essential Oil Companies (Non-MLM)

"Alternative Essential Oil Companies (Non-MLM)"

It might be helpful for some to be made aware of reputable Essential Oil companies beyond the well known DoTerra and Young Living. It's important to be aware that the claims made by many that their respective Essential Oils are the "best", "purest", or "highest quality" are simply untrue. But don't get me wrong! These MLM (Multi-Level Marketing) companies have very fine quality Essential Oils! And there is nothing wrong with making money having a business as an EO Rep! I have many friends who do this, and sell from both companies.

However, some of us out there would like to bypass these types of companies for whatever reason (i.e. hesitancy to sign-up with a company, affordability, etc.). If you're wanting to find a more affordable, yet high quality Essential Oil company, check out the list of recommendations below.

But first, here are a few things to keep in mind when assessing Essential Oil companies:

1. There is no governing body that certifies Essential Oils.
2. There are no "grades" of Essential Oils. There is no grade quality A, B, C, etc.
3. "Therapeutic Grade", "Certified Pure Therapeutic Grade", "Pharmaceutical Grade", etc. are all Trademarked Phrases, or Marketing Phrases (See point #1). This means a company sets the standard themselves and deams themself whatever they please. This in and of itself isn't necessarily bad if you are only trying to communicate the purity of your EOs, however, don't fall into thinking there is an outside authority assessing this. Some companies are using these terms only to differentiate Aromatherapy Essential Oils from the Essential Oils used in fragrance, flavoring, or food only. This is a good thing, because Aromatherapy Essential Oils need to be pure and unadulterated, high quality Essential Oils.
4. Ingestion: Some companies are obligated to NOT recommend their Essential Oils for Ingestion in order to protect themselves legally. EOs are extremely potent, and should not be used internally without the supervision of a Certified Aromatherapist. If a company isn't claiming that their EOs are "safe for Ingestion", that does NOT necessarily reflect upon the quality of their EOs. Also, the FDA's GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe) regulation only applies to using Essential Oils as flavouring, i.e. 1 drop of Peppermint EO in an entire batch of Brownies. It has NOT been evaluated for internal use in any other capacity, including EOs in supplements, Lemon Oi in your water, EOs in capsules, etc. More Info:http://www.fda.gov/Food/IngredientsPackagingLabeling/GRAS &http://www.gpo.gov/fdsys/pkg/USCODE-2010-title21/html/USCODE-2010-title21-chap9-subchapIV-sec348.htm
5. Organic Labeling: Becoming Certified Organic is a lengthy and very expensive process. Many companies are able to accomplish this, despite being smaller in nature. Keep in mind that just because each EO a company has isn't Certified Organic, that doesn't necessarily mean they are garbage. So do your research!

Recommended Essential Oil Companies (in alphabetic order):

Aromatics International

http://www.aromaticsinternational.com
This company was founded in 2005, and is owned and run by two Certified Aromatherapists, with backgrounds in Nursing and Herbal Medicine. They are teamed up with the well known Aromahead Institute, school of Aromatherapy. All of their EOs are either Certified Organic, Wild Crafted, or Unsprayed. Each batch of EOs are GC/MS tested to ensure 100% Purity, and are sourced from their native regions internationally.

Aura Cacia

https://www.auracacia.com
This company was founded in 1982, and is also offered through Frontiers Co-op at discounted prices. They have stood up to multiple third party tests, and can be found in many local health food stores. They offer non-Organic and Certified Organic EOs. Each batch of EOs are GC/MS, sensory evaluation, optical rotation, and specific gravity testing to ensure 100% Purity, and are sourced from their native regions internationally.

Florihana

http://www.florihana.com/en or http://www.tropicaltraditions.com/essential-oils
This is a French company, easily ordered from through Tropical Traditions. This is one of the most reputable EO companies worldwide. It is interesting to note that France is one of the only countries that has Essential Oil regulations and standardization. The majority of their EOs are Certified Organic. Each batch of EOs are GC/MS tested, offer MSDS, IFRA and Allergen Certificates to ensure 100% Purity.

Mountain Rose Herbs

https://www.mountainroseherbs.com
This company was founded in 1987, by a couple of Herbalists and Herbal Educators. They have won numerous awards for their environmental and sustainability initiatives. They offer some non-Organic and many Certified Organic EOs. Each batch of EOs are GC/MS tested and have MSDS certificates available upon request to ensure 100% Purity.

Native American Nutritionals

http://www.nativeamericannutritionals.com
This company was founded in 1998, by Paul Dean, who has 20+ years experience in the EO world, and draws from his Native American roots. This company just merged with Rocky Mountain Oils. All of their EOs are either Certified Organic, Grown Organically, or Wild Crafted, and are ethically harvested and fair trade. Each batch of EOs are GC/MS tested and have third party testing to ensure 100% Purity, and are sourced from their native regions internationally.

Plant Therapy

http://www.planttherapy.com
This company was founded in 2009, and has several Certified Aromatherapists on staff. They are also joined with Robert Tisserand, a leading Essential Oils expert, who helped them design a Kid-Safe line of EOs. They offer non-Organic and some Certified Organic EOs. Each batch of EOs are GC/MS tested and have third party testing, to ensure 100% Purity.

Rocky Mountain Oils

http://www.rockymountainoils.com
This company was founded in 2002, and just merged with Native American Nutrtionals. All of their EOs are either Certified Organic, Grown Organically, or Wild Crafted, and are ethically harvested and fair trade. Each batch of EOs are GC/MS tested and have third party testing to ensure 100% Purity, and are sourced from their native regions internationally.
EOs: Education, Info, & Resources:
https://www.facebook.com/notes/hippie-mamas-of-missouri/essential-oils-education-info-resources/1476639899308931

EOs for Pregnancy & Childbirth:

https://www.facebook.com/notes/hippie-mamas-of-missouri/essential-oils-for-pregnancy-childbirth/1476665662639688

Essential Oils for Pregnancy & Childbirth

Essential Oils for Pregnancy & Childbirth

Education about the birth process, exploring birthing options, prenatal yoga, and creative imagery—casting off all preconceived ideas of a difficult or painful birth, hypnosis, etc. are all ways to invite the beauty of birth into the experience. THEN...adding such a WONDERFUL complementary modality such as Aromatherapy will be the icing on the cake." - Marge Clark, Aromatherapist

***Please educate yourself on the proper use of Essential Oils. They are potent and can be dangerous when used incorrectly, especially for Pregnant women. Always dilute with a Carrier Oil. Do not ingest Essential Oils except under the guidance of an experienced Certified Aromatherapist. Do not use Essential Oils on a Newborn baby under any circumstances. Essential Oils are very potent and not a good choice for Babies, and are quite often not the best choice for Pregnant women with a little one growing inside. Herbs are almost always a better, gentler choice for both Pregnancy, Labor, Postpartum, and for Newborns as well. As a disclaimer, PLEASE research each Herb and Essential Oil for any complications or risks in light of your health background and any medications you may be on and any complications in your Pregnancy. All of the information below is general advice only.

All that being said, below you will find reputable, safe, and conservative information on using Aromatherapy and Essential Oils to support the entire Childbirth process form Pregnancy to Postpartum. This is the culmination of extensive and ongoing research on my part as an Herbalist, drawing information from various Aromatherapists such as Jeanne Rose, Ashley Glassman, Marge Clark, a Midwife named Penny Lane, DNP, CNM, IBCLC who utilizes Essential Oils during Labor, and Lori Mitchell, RN and Clinical Aromatherapist.
- Helen Rose, Assistant Admin and Herbalist

A Guide to Using Herbs for Pregnancy and Childbirth: https://www.facebook.com/notes/missouri-mamas-crunchy-natural-living-parenting/herbal-pregnancy-childbirth/825063444274550

Essential Oil Info & Education:
https://www.facebook.com/notes/missouri-mamas-crunchy-natural-living-parenting/essential-oils-education-info-resources/661420397305523

Non-MLM Companies to Purchase EOs from:
https://www.facebook.com/notes/missouri-mamas-crunchy-natural-living-parenting/alternative-essential-oil-companies-non-mlm/750930681687827

Some Guidelines for using Essential Oils during Pregnancy & Childbirth:

Birthing Mothers are best left alone to their own natural laboring rhythm.
View Essential Oils as an Intervention.
During Pregnancy, visualize how you plan to have Aromatherapy support your Birth. Experiment a little in the last few weeks of your Pregnancy with using different safe Essential Oils to see which ones they are drawn to. For example, some have more of an affinity for Rose, Geranium, & Jasmine Essential Oils, whereas others are drawn more towards the Citrus Essential Oils. Find what is especially meaningful and soothing for the Pregnant Mother. These tendencies may indicate which Essential Oils will be most effective and beneficial during their Birth, if needed at all. The purpose of this is respecting the fact that a Patient-driven Birth has an ideal outcome, even Aromahtherapeutically.

Safety: Use common sense. Essential Oils have a long history of safe use, when used correctly. A couple specifics: In general it is wise to avoid using EOs during the first Trimester. Do not over do things, as it's easy to overdoes. They should not be put into the water a Mother is laboring in, since the Baby will encounter it immediately upon birth. Also avoid the facial area of both Mother and Baby.
When using Aromatherapy during Birth, try to keep it to 3 or less Essential Oils, since the Birthing Mother typically has a heightened perception, it will be better received to keep the Aromatherapy simpler.
Note that some Mothers prefer either Diffusion or a Topical massage. Sometimes touch can be too stimulating. So be discerning. Before Labor, ask what they have typically preferred in the past when they were sick and vulnerable, i.e. massages and cuddling, or no?
For Pain Management, it is a better mindset to uncover the cause of the pain, versus simply masking the pain. Don't just treat symptoms.
Check below for a list of Essential Oils to avoid while Pregnant, and check in the Comments section of this post for helpful Charts for reference.

"In my personal experience 90% of the time whole herbs, or other herbal preparations can be used far more safely and effectively for most situations during pregnancy than essential oils can. Again, that is not to say there isn’t a place for them, but often when people find out how limited the amount of essential oils are that are safe for pregnancy, they feel their “natural” options for managing unwanted symptoms are gone too. But this is not the case at all! Symptoms such as heart burn, nausea, muscle aches, etc., can often be dealt with using herbal preparations that are far less concentrated and far safer for both mama and baby during pregnancy. So don’t despair just because an essential oil is on the “no” list, you may be able to use the plant itself very effectively." - Ashley Glassman, Certified Clinical Master Aromatherapist

PREGNANCY
Foot-baths, Epsom Salt Baths, & Massaging with a Carrier Oil are all good choices for applying Essential Oils while Pregnant.

Nausea, Heartburn, & Digestive Health

*Diffused or inhaled especially effective.
Ginger
Grapefruit
Lemon
Lime
Peppermint: Use sparingly at the beginning of Pregnancy because of it’s possible stimulating properties, and sparingly at the end of Pregnancy, since it can decrease Milk production.
Spearmint

Pain Relief & Tension

Black Pepper: Good for back and leg muscle pains, and sciatic nerve pain.
Chamomile: Good for back and leg muscle pains, and sciatic nerve pain.
Cypress: Good for leg and ankle swelling and leg cramps, and sciatic nerve pain.
Frankincense: Good for general pain.
Lavender : Good for general pain, and sciatic nerve pain.
Peppermint: Good for general pain. Use sparingly though at the beginning of Pregnancy because of it’s possible stimulating properties, and sparingly at the end of Pregnancy, since it can decrease Milk production.
Sweet Marjoram: Good for back and leg muscle pains, and sciatic nerve pain.

General Discomfort

Citrus Essential Oils: Treatment of varicosities and general pain or discomfort. Possibly increases blood flow and decreases swelling. Also can possibly increase blood flow when passing a miscarried Baby, especially when stalling.

Calming, Relaxation, Supporting Mood & Uplifting Spirits.

*Massage, Diffuse, or Inhale.
Bergamot
Chamomile
Frankincense
Geranium
Lavender
Lemon
Lime
Neroli
Patchouli
Petitgrain
Tangerine
Wild Orange
Ylang Ylang

Insomnia

Bergamot
Chamomile
Lavender
Lemon
Lime
Neroli
Sweet Marjoram
Sweet Orange
Ylang Ylang

Fatigue

Grapefruit
Lime
Spearmint
Sweet Orange

Skin Health & Stretch Marks

Chamomile (German or Roman)
Frankincense
Lavender
Myrrh
Rose
Sandalwood
Sweet Orange
Tea Tree

Illness

Bergamot: For general illness, chest congestion, and germs.
Cypress: Good for chest congestion.
Fir Needle: Good for chest congestion.
Frankincense: For general illness, chest congestion, and germs.

LABOR

Assisting Contractions

Clary Sage: The Adaptogenic (stabilizing and promoting of homeostasis) qualities of Clary Sage used in the correct dilution (typically very subtly) acts as a Uterine Tonic. It is effective at assisting the Uterus to do its job better, but not necessarily inducing or starting labour per se. If the Uterus is irritable or ineffective, it will help it become more effective and support contractions, without artificially strengthening the contractions like Pitocin. Apply to the inside of your ankles and abdomen to bring on stronger and more consistent contractions, especially when Labor has stalled.
Jasmine: Strengthens Contractions and dulls Uterine pain.
Myrrh: Speeds Labor and opens Cervix. Apply to the inside of your ankles and abdomen to support Labor and bring on stronger and more consistent contractions when Labor has stalled. This EO is controversial. Some Aromatherapists say not to use and others recommend it. Research and decide for yourself.

Calming

Grounding Blend/Calming Blend: Diffuse during Labor for a peaceful and calming effect, or rub on back of neck and wrists.
Chamomile: Very calming, and a gentle pain reliever.
Clary Sage: Relieves tension.
Lavender: Diffuse for calming, relaxation, and soothing during labor. Helps with maintaining gentle, serene atmosphere. Be wary of being too calm though, as it can drag labor out unnecessarily, and result in an overly exhausted birthing Mother. General guide for Lavender: "Less is More". Also great for stopping labor if labor has stalled, and encouraging a time or restfulness or even sleep if needed.
Neroli: Reduces fear, tension, insomnia, apprehension, nervousness, and anxiety. Beneficial for supporting calm, relaxed breathing (especially with small amounts of Frankincense). May be an especially good choice during Transition. One drop only on the pillow.
Rose: Has a very supportive effect emotionally during Labor. Can possibly be overpowering if too much is used though, so subtlety is key here! 1 drop of Rose goes a long way. It is very effective when using the Aromatherapy support of Rose to also visualize the Cervix opening as an actual Rose.

Energizing

Invigorating Blend/Citrus EOs: Diffuse or apply to wrists to support a tired laboring Mother. Also good for the Birth Team. It can keep everyone awake and focused.
Geranium: Very god for uplifting and assist in balancing emotional states.
Lemon: Diffuse as a mood elevation and support.

Labor Management

Grounding Blend: Apply to bottoms of feet throughout Labor.
Geranium Rose : Enhances circulation and is good for labor management techniques which focus on breathing.
Rose: Has a cleansing effect on the Uterus, acts as an antidepressant, and has a relaxing, softening effect on ligaments to assist in opening the Pelvis to push larger Babies (especially for smaller Mothers). Rose is a Uterine relaxant, which may seem counterproductive in Birth, but Rose is very Adaptogenic (stabilizing and promoting of homeostasis), so it can help the Uterus to work quite efficiently, yet still promote homeostasis between Contractions. Also, subtlety is the key here with using Rose: 1 Drop goes a long way.
Peppermint, Ginger, or a Digestive Blend: to support a nauseated Mother during Labor. Usually just inhaling the open bottle or putting a drop on a tissue to sniff is adequate.

Pain

***For Pain Management, it is a better mindset to uncover the cause of the pain, versus simply masking the pain. Don't just treat symptoms.
Black Pepper: Apply on lower back for supporting Back Labor.
Jasmine: Dulls Uterine pain and strengthens contractions.
Lavender: Dulls and eases Uterine pain, while increases the strength of Contractions, yet still keeping the Mother calm.

Afterbirth

Clary Sage: Helps expel Afterbirth if assistance is needed.

POSTPARTUM
*Please refer to the Pregnancy section too for relevant needs.

Afterbirth Pains

Lavender: Apply to abdomen for pain management.
White Fir: Apply to abdomen for pain management.

Support

Grounding Blend: Apply to bottoms of feet daily at rise and bedtime, or diffuse for a peaceful and calming effect, or rub on back of neck and wrists.

MORE ESSENTIAL OIL INFO

National Association of Holistic Aromatherapy

https://www.naha.org/explore-aromatherapy/safety/#pregnancy
https://www.naha.org/assets/uploads/PregnancyGuidelines-Oct11.pdf

Aromatic Birthing and Delivery - Marge Clark, Aromatherapist

https://naturesgift.com/aromatherapy-information/how-to-use-essential-oils/aromatic-birthing-and-delivery

Essential Oils During Pregnancy and For Children - Ashley Glassman, Certified Clinical Master Aromatherapist

http://realessentialoileducation.com/?page_id=1786

Using Essential Oils Safely for Pregnant & Nursing Mamas - Christina Anthis, Aromatherapist & Herbalist

http://www.thehippyhomemaker.com/using-essential-oils-safely-for-pregnant-nursing-mamas/

Ultrasound Information

Ultrasound Information

Compiled by Helen Stafford.

Links I read and found inforative or helpful:

http://www.nevermindthem.com/opinion/ultrasound-is-it-safe.asp
http://www.aimsusa.org/ultrasnd.htm
http://www.midwiferytoday.com/articles/ultrasoundwagner.asp?1=ultrasound
http://www.mothering.com/forum/16974-march-2012/1333758-no-ultrasound.html
http://sarahbuckley.com/ultrasound-scans-cause-for-concern
http://chriskresser.com/natural-childbirth-iib-ultrasound-not-as-safe-as-commonly-thought/
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24249575
http://www.midwiferytoday.com/articles/ultrasoundrodgers.asp
http://www.fda.gov/ForConsumers/ConsumerUpdates/ucm095508.htm
http://harvoa.org/chs/pr/
http://blog.pathwaystofamilywellness.org/pathways/ultrasound-7-reasons-your-developing-baby-says-its-not-safe-or-painless/#sthash.2shQW3XC.y56tQo35.dpbs
http://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJM199309163291201
http://kellybroganmd.com/article/utrasound-risks-perils-of-peeking-into-the-womb/
http://kellybroganmd.com/article/human-studies-condemn-ultrasound/
https://jonrappoport.wordpress.com/2015/05/17/the-great-jim-west-does-it-again-the-dangers-of-ultrasound/
http://drbenkim.com/articles-ultrasound-pregnancy.html

Other links I read:

http://www.alternamoms.com/ultrasound.html

I did not read these links yet:

http://gentlebirth.org/archives/preScreen.html
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00X06QDYS/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00X06QDYS&linkCode=as2&tag=wwwnomorefake-20&linkId=3TUX2GVH4RDXWKFV

Natural Library & Recommend Reading

"Natural Library & Recommended Reading"

Share a comment or link below to some of your favorite Natural Living books, and an Admin will get them added!

BREASTFEEDING

"The Womanly Art of Breastfeeding" - Diane Wiessinger (La Leche League International)

CHILDBIRTH

"Gentle Birth, Gentle Mothering: a Doctor's Guide to Natural Childbirth and Gentle Early Parenting Choices" -Sarah J. Buckley
"Childbirth Without Fear: The Principles and Practice of Natural Childbirth" - Grantly Dick-Read
"Birthing from Within: An Extra-Ordinary Guide to Childbirth Preparation" - Pam England
"HypnoBirthing: The Mongan Method" - Marie F. Mongan
"Natural Childbirth the Bradley Way" - Susan McCutcheon-Rosegg
"The Homebirth Advantage" - Mayer Eisenstein
"Real Birth" - Robin Greene
"Ina May's Guide to Childbirth" - Ina May Gaskin
"Spiritual Midwivery" - Ina May Gaskin
"Your Best Birth: Know All Your Options, Discover the Natural Choices, and Take Back the Birth Experience" - Ricki Lake
"Diary of a Midwife: The Power of Positive Childbearing" - Juliana van Olphen-Fehr
"Baby Catcher: Chronicles of a Modern Midwife" - Peggy Vincent
"The Midwife: A Memoir of Birth, Joy, and Hard Times" - Jennifer Worth

FERTILITY

"Taking Charge of Your Fertility: the Definitive Guide to Natural Birth Control, Pregnancy Achievement, and Reproductive Health" - Toni Weschler

HEALTH

"Prescriptions for Nutritional Healing" - Phyllis A. Balch

HOMESCHOOLING

"You are Your Child's First Teacher: Encouraging Your Child's Natural Development from Birth to Age Six" - Rahima Baldwin Dancy (Waldorf Education)
"Beyond the Rainbow Bridge: Nurturing Our Children from Birth to Seven - Barbara J. Patterson & Pamela Bradley (Waldorf Education)

PARENTING

"The Attachment Parenting Book: a Commonsense Guide to Understanding and Nurturing Your Baby" - William Sears
"The Science of Parenting" - Margot Sunderland

Attachment Parenting Info

"Attachment Parenting Info"

Attachment Parenting International's Eight Principles of Parenting:

1) Prepare for Pregnancy, Birth, and Parenting: Become emotionally and physically prepared for pregnancy and birth. Research available options for healthcare providers and birthing environments, and become informed about routine newborn care. Continuously educate yourself about developmental stages of childhood, setting realistic expectations and remaining flexible.

2) Feed with Love and Respect: Breastfeeding is the optimal way to satisfy an infant's nutritional and emotional needs. "Bottle Nursing" adapts breastfeeding behaviors to bottle-feeding to help initiate a secure attachment. Follow the feeding cues for both infants and children, encouraging them to eat when they are hungry and stop when they are full. Offer healthy food choices and model healthy eating behavior.

3) Respond with Sensitivity: Build the foundation of trust and empathy beginning in infancy. Tune in to what your child is communicating to you, then respond consistently and appropriately. Babies cannot be expected to self-soothe, they need calm, loving, empathetic parents to help them learn to regulate their emotions. Respond sensitively to a child who is hurting or expressing strong emotion, and share in their joy.

4) Use Nurturing Touch: Touch meets a baby's needs for physical contact, affection, security, stimulation, and movement. Skin-to-skin contact is especially effective, such as during breastfeeding, bathing, or massage. Carrying or Babywearing also meets this need while on the go. Hugs, snuggling, back rubs, massage, and physical play help meet this need in older children.

5) Ensure Safe Sleep, Physically and Emotionally: Babies and children have needs at night just as they do during the day; from hunger, loneliness, and fear, to feeling too hot or too cold. They rely on parents to soothe them and help them regulate their intense emotions. Sleep training techniques can have detrimental physiological and psychological effects. Safe co-sleeping has benefits to both babies and parents.

6) Provide Consistent and Loving Care: Babies and young children have an intense need for the physical presence of a consistent, loving, responsive caregiver: ideally a parent. If it becomes necessary, choose an alternate caregiver who has formed a bond with the child and who cares for him in a way that strengthens the attachment relationship. Keep schedules flexible, and minimize stress and fear during short separations

7) Practice Positive Discipline: Positive discipline helps a child develop a conscience guided by his own internal discipline and compassion for others. Discipline that is empathetic, loving, and respectful strengthens the connection between parent and child. Rather than reacting to behavior, discover the needs leading to the behavior. Communicate and craft solutions together while keeping everyone's dignity intact.

8) Strive for Balance in Your Personal and Family Life: It is easier to be emotionally responsive when you feel in balance. Create a support network, set realistic goals, put people before things, and don't be afraid to say "no". Recognize individual needs within the family and meet them to the greatest extent possible without compromising your physical and emotional health. Be creative, have fun with parenting, and take time to care for yourself.

- More Info: http://www.attachmentparenting.org/principles/api

Dr. William Sears' 7 Attachment Parenting Tools:

The Baby B’s Dr. William Sears first wrote on Attachment Parenting as an approach to parenting, but not a strict set of rules to follow. He lists out the "Seven Baby B's" of Attachment Parenting as tools to use in your responsive parenting.

1) Birth bonding: The way baby and parents get started with one another helps the early attachment unfold. The days and weeks after birth are a sensitive period in which mothers and babies are uniquely primed to want to be close to one another. A close attachment after birth and beyond allows the natural, biological attachment-promoting behaviors of the infant and the intuitive, biological, care-giving qualities of the mother to come together. Both members of this biological pair get off to the right start at a time when the infant is most needy and the mother is most ready to nurture. “What if something happens to prevent our immediate bonding?” Sometimes medical complications keep you and your baby apart for a while, but then catch-up bonding is what happens, attachment-parenting-babies starting as soon as possible. When the concept of bonding was first delivered onto the parenting scene twenty years ago, some people got it out of balance. The concept of human bonding being an absolute “critical period” or a “now-or-never” relationship was never intended. Birth bonding is not like instant glue that cements the mother-child relationship together forever. Bonding is a series of steps in your lifelong growing together with your child. Immediate bonding simply gives the relationship between parents and attachment parenting babies a headstart.

2) Breastfeeding: Breastfeeding is an exercise in baby reading. Breastfeeding helps you read your baby’s cues, her body language, which is the first step in getting to know your baby. Breastfeeding gives baby and mother a smart start in life. Breastmilk contains unique brain-building nutrients that cannot be manufactured or bought. Breastfeeding promotes the right chemistry between mother and baby by stimulating your body to produce prolactin and oxytocin, hormones that give your mothering a boost.

3) Babywearing: A baby learns a lot in the arms of a busy caregiver. Carried babies fuss less and spend more time in the state of quiet alertness, the behavior state in which babies learn most about their environment. Babywearing improves the sensitivity of the parents because your baby is so close to you, you get to know baby better. Closeness promotes familiarity with Attachment Parenting babies.

4) Bedding Close to Baby: Wherever all family members get the best night’s sleep is the right arrangement for your individual family. Co-sleeping adds a nighttime touch that helps busy daytime parents reconnect with their infant at night. Since nighttime is a scary time for little people, sleeping within close touching and nursing distance minimizes nighttime separation anxiety and helps Attachment Parenting babies learn that sleep is a pleasant state to enter and a fearless state to remain in.

5) Belief in the Language Value of Your Baby’s Cry: A baby’s cry is a signal designed for the survival of the baby and the development of the parents. Responding sensitively to your baby’s cries builds trust. Babies trust that their caregivers will be responsive to their needs. Parents gradually learn to trust in their ability to appropriately meet their baby’s needs. This raises the parent-child communication level up a notch. Tiny Attachment Parenting babies cry to communicate, not to manipulate.

6) Beware of Baby Trainers: Attachment Parenting teaches you how to be discerning of advice, especially those rigid and extreme parenting styles that teach you to watch a clock or a schedule instead of your baby; you know, the cry-it-out crowd. This “convenience” parenting is a short-term gain, but a long-term loss, and is not a wise investment. These more restrained styles of parenting create a distance between you and your baby and keep you from becoming an expert in your child.

7) Balance: In your zeal to give so much to your baby, it’s easy to neglect the needs of yourself and your marriage. As you will learn the key to putting balance in your parenting is being appropriately responsive to your baby – knowing when to say “yes” and when to say “no,” and having the wisdom to say “yes” to yourself when you need help.

- More Info: http://www.askdrsears.com/topics/parenting/attachment-parenting/attachment-parenting-babies

Websites:
http://www.naturalchild.org/articles/attachment_parenting.html
http://www.askdrsears.com/topics/parenting
http://www.attachmentparenting.org/
http://www.mothering.com/
http://www.naturalchild.org/
http://www.ahaparenting.com/
http://thegreenparent.co.uk/

Books:
"Gentle Birth, Gentle Mothering: A Doctor's Guide to Natural Childbirth and Early Parenting Choices" - Sarah J. Buckley
"The Natural Child: Parenting from the Heart" - Jan Hunt
"Baby Bliss: Your One-stop Guide for the First Three Months and Beyond" - Harvey Karp
"The Happiest Baby on the Block: The New Way to Calm Crying and Help Your Newborn Sleep Longer" - Harvey Karp
"Raising Your Spirited Child: A Guide for Parents Whose Child Is More Intense, Sensitive, Perceptive, Persistent, Energetic" - Mary Sheedy Kurcinka
"Attached at the Heart: Eight Proven Parenting Principles for Raising Connected and Compassionate Children" - Barbara Nicholson
"The No-Cry Sleep Solution: Gentle Ways to Help Your Baby Sleep Through the Night" - Elizabeth Pantley
"The Attachment Parenting Book: A Commonsense Guide to Understanding and Nurturing Your Baby" - William Sears, MD
"The Baby Book: Everything You Need to Know About Your Baby from Birth to Age Two" - William Sears, MD
"The Fussy Baby Book: Parenting Your High-Need Child From Birth to Age Five" - William Sears, MD
"The Science of Parenting" - Margot Sunderland
"What Every Parent Needs To Know: The Incredible Effects Of Love, Nurture And Play On Your Child's Development" - Margot Sunderland
"Sweet Sleep: Nighttime and Naptime Strategies for the Breastfeeding Family" - Diane Wiessinger

***Check out our Gentle Parenting Resource File too: https://www.facebook.com/notes/hippie-mamas-of-missouri/gentle-parenting-info/1482152225424365