| How to Test Essential Oils for Purity Posted: 29 Mar 2019 05:00 PM PDT Essential oils are growing in popularity due to their pleasant scents and various household uses. However, the purity of the essential oil is important for making sure it is as effective as possible. To verify that your essential oils are high quality, it is important that you learn the signs of a good essential oil and test the oils out for yourself. EditChecking Before You Buy - Compare the prices of the essential oils. Some flowers or plants that essential oils are derived from require a larger quantity to create one drop of oil. For roses, it takes almost 60 roses to make one drop of oil, and this should be reflected in the price of the oil. An unusually low price is normally a sign that the oil is diluted in some way, making it less pure.[1]
- If all of the oils from a particular brand are the same price, it is usually indicative of less pure oils. You could expect to have a range of prices from $20 for a more abundant oil, such as lavender, all the way up to $80 for an oil that is harder to make, such as rose.
- Ask your supplier about the purity of their oils and the distilling process. Try to buy from a supplier who distills their own oils, or deals directly with a distiller who does. Suppliers should be willing to provide you with a sample (maybe for a small fee) before encouraging you to buy larger quantities. This shows that they are confident in their product and believe that if you try it you will buy.[2]
- Search for oil by the specific name of the plant it is derived from. Being able to read the label and identify the plant makeup of the oil is the first step to buying a quality oil. The general rule of thumb is to purchase by the Latin name, which can be found by searching online for the plant, as this is normally the most specific.[3]
- For example, many customers purchase lavandula oil, also known as lavender, because of its calming effects. A common mistake is purchasing lavender oil instead, which has the opposite effect and will make the user more alert.
- Check the packaging for a purity statement. There should be a statement on the packaging of the oil that says "100% Pure" or something similar to this claim. If there is not, it has likely been mixed or adulterated with some other substance.[4]
EditTesting the Oils - Select an oil to test and get a piece of blank paper. You can test your oil at home with just these 2 items. Make sure you cover your work surface with wax paper or tin foil to protect it from any oil that might bleed through the paper. [5]
- Place one drop of the oil on the paper. If your oil doesn't have a dropper with it or a cap that allows this, you can use the eraser side of a pencil. Just dip the eraser into the bottle and let the oil drip onto the paper from there, or gently touch the eraser to the paper to get the oil to transfer.[6]
- If you're testing multiple oils, it might help to label each one so you remember where it is on the paper.
- Allow the oil to dry completely. This will normally take about 30-45 minutes depending on how much oil you have on the paper. Check after 30 minutes, and if there's still some liquid on the paper, allow another 15 minutes to dry.[7]
- Check the places where you dropped the oil for a leftover ring of oil or grease. If there is a ring present, that means that the oil has likely been diluted with another substance and is less pure. If you can't see a ring, try touching the paper with your finger lightly. If it's completely dry and you don't feel any oil or grease on your finger, your oil is likely pure and high quality.[8]
- Some oils that are darker in color will leave a slight tint, but the paper should not be oily or greasy once completely dry. Oils such as sandalwood, patchouli, and German chamomile will leave a tint but not an oily ring.
- Send your oils to a lab for testing if you will be using them for professional reasons. For aromatherapists and naturopaths, it might be worthwhile to send oils to a lab for chemical testing. This will ensure that the chemical makeup of the oil is indeed pure and what is labelled on the bottle.[9]
- The two means of testing are Gas Chromatography and Mass Spectrometry. These tests are often performed together in a lab, and will show whether there are any "adulterants" in the oil.[10]
- Essential oils should never be ingested unless you are under the care of a trained professional.
- If you are doing home testing on your oils, make sure you're working in a space that is well-ventilated to prevent overwhelming or unpleasant scents.
- If you're unsure about the quality of an essential oil, hold off on buying it until you are able to verify that it is pure.
EditReferences
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| How to Wear a Backless Dress Posted: 29 Mar 2019 09:00 AM PDT Backless dresses are an elegant, striking look for anyone looking to make a statement by showing some skin. They can be a great choice for formal and semi-formal events, but many avoid them because they can be intimidating to wear. However, if you pick the right undergarments, take good care of your skin, and accessorize properly, you can feel comfortable and beautiful in a backless dress at your next big occasion. EditChoosing Undergarments - Try a low-back bra if you need more support. These bras have a band that wraps around your stomach and lower back, providing your chest with an ample amount of support while remaining hidden beneath your dress. If you have a larger bust, this is the choice you should consider first.[1]
- Some bras can be converted into low-back bras. This is a great option if you want to invest in an undergarment you can wear every day.
- Cover up with stick-on silicone gel petals if you need less support. If your bust is smaller, you might be able to get away without wearing any support. However, if you choose to go braless, you can risk exposing yourself through thin or light-colored fabric. Avoid this by sticking specialized gel petals over your nipples.[2]
- If you're looking for a simple, inexpensive coverage option, putting band-aids on your nipples can work just as well as wearing gel petals.[3]
- Try an adhesive bra if you have a small- to moderately-sized bust. It provides a little more coverage and support than gel petals, but offers a similar guarantee that no straps or clasps will peek through the back of your gown. It offers less support than a low-back bra, and for this reason, it may offer inadequate support to larger-busted women.[4]
- Consider a bra with a transparent back for subtlety and support. These bras are similar to strapless bras, but instead of a visible band and clasp, the back of the bra is made up of clear plastic or sheer fabric.[5] If you enjoy wearing strapless bras, but the one you usually wear will show through your backless dress, this is an excellent alternative. It's also a more supportive option for women with medium to large busts.
- Choose a halter bra for dresses with higher backs and halter necks. Some backless dresses go around the neck and only expose a small portion of your back. For these dresses, you may be able to hide a halter style bra beneath your dress. This is another supportive option for women with larger busts.[6]
- Be sure to try this type of bra on with your dress to ensure that your dress covers up the clasp. It's a good rule of thumb to try any type of bra on with your dress in advance of the night you plan to wear it – if the bra fits poorly or is too visible beneath the dress, you'll want time to find an alternative.
EditStyling Your Backless Dress - Practice proper posture to look confident and poised in your dress. Hold your head high, your shoulders back, and your chest out. Straight posture will draw attention to your back and enhance your look, so try your best to avoid slouching or hunching over.[7]
- Tucking your stomach in and bearing weight primarily on the balls of your feet can help you stand taller. It's also helpful to keep your head on a level plane by making sure your earlobes are directly above your shoulders.[8]
- Choose minimal, elegant jewelry to counterbalance your daring dress. Accessories are an important part of any outfit, but the primary purpose of a backless dress is to show off your back. Jewelry that's prominent or flashy can draw attention away from the true focus of your look.[9]
- Instead of a bold piece of statement jewelry, choose a simple yet elegant pair of dangling earrings or a delicate bracelet to add just a touch of sparkle to your look.[10]
- Pick a pair of shoes that complements your dress without distracting from it. People usually wear backless dresses to more formal occasions or events. As such, it's usually appropriate to choose a fancy pair of evening shoes – usually heels – to go with your dress. Just make sure that your footwear doesn't steal the spotlight from your gown.[11]
- If your dress is sequined, patterned, or otherwise embellished, it's a safe bet to choose simpler,solid-colored shoes. If both your dress and your shoes are elaborate, they may clash with each other.
- Black shoes tend to go well with many different colors. Metallic and nude shoes can also be versatile. But if you want to experiment with an unexpected color choice, try picking shoes that are the same color as your dress, but a slightly different shade.[12]
- Avoid accessories, such as scarves, that cover your neck or back. Again, you want your back to be the focal point of your look. Necklaces can also create a disruption by drawing the eye to a clasp or an adjustable chain instead of your back.[13]
- Necklaces that are designed to drape down over your back are an exception to this rule. These tend to be fairly delicate, and are designed to be worn with backless dresses and shirts.
- Keep climate in mind while choosing accessories. If you are attending an outdoor event that might be a little chilly, wear a shrug, shawl, or jacket. You certainly want to show off your back at every chance you get, but you should prioritize your comfort – backless looks expose a lot of skin and can leave you vulnerable to the cold.[14]
- Pin up your hair to highlight the style of your dress. You may have long, luxurious locks, but if they cover your entire back, there is not much point in wearing a backless dress. Choose a hairdo that sweeps your hair up and away in order to show off your back.[15]
- Updos often complement a backless gown. Try a sleek, simple bun, or attempt a more elaborate style involving twists or braids.[16]
- Try a half-up, half-down hairstyle for a demure, mysterious look. If updos aren't your thing, try keeping your hair partially down. Allow part of it drape down your back, but make sure that enough of your skin still shows through. Covering up slightly can heighten the attractiveness of a backless dress.[17]
- Try curling your hair in loose waves, then sweep it to the side and across your shoulder to reveal a section of your back.[18]
EditCaring for Your Skin - Use an antibacterial acne wash to clear and prevent breakouts. Even if you are not prone to back acne, regularly washing your back with an acne wash is a good way to ward off stray pimples and keep your skin looking smooth. Choose a formula that contains benzoyl peroxide for maximum effectiveness.[19]
- If you're having trouble washing the entirety of your back, try an antibacterial skin spray. These are easy to apply, and they pack the same cleansing punch as anti-acne soaps or scrubs.[20]
- Shed sweaty clothes to prevent back breakouts. Being active can increase the risk of developing acne on your back, shoulders, and chest. After getting sweaty, try to change out of your wet clothes and shower right away to clear away oil and bacteria from your skin. If you remember to do this each time you work out, you'll be more likely to have clear skin on your back, which will help you feel confident in your backless dress.[21]
- Avoid conditioners that contain panthenol to keep your skin clear. For some, products that contain this chemical can increase the risk of breakouts around the hairline and across the back. Skip these products if you can, or carefully wash your back with body wash or antibacterial scrub after rinsing the conditioner out of your hair.[22]
- Moisturize the skin on your back to keep it healthy and blemish-free. After you wash, apply a light moisturizer or lotion over your back to keep the skin from drying out. This is an especially important step for those who have dry or sensitive skin.[23]
- Using moisturizer soothes dry skin, but it can also prevent further acne breakouts. If your skin is dry, it produces more pore-clogging oil. Keeping your skin soft and hydrated with an oil-free moisturizer can curb excess oil and guard against resulting acne.
- Regularly look at your back in a full-length mirror to ensure that you feel ready to show it off. After you begin your skincare regimen, check up on your skin to make sure you'll be comfortable baring it in your backless dress. If you cannot see it by craning your head, use a hand mirror to assist you. Stand with your back to the full-length mirror and hold the hand mirror in front of you. Move the hand mirror around until you can clearly see the reflection of your back in the full-length mirror.[24]
EditReferences EditQuick Summary
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| How to Grow a Plum Tree Posted: 29 Mar 2019 01:00 AM PDT Growing your own plum tree in your backyard is a gratifying experience. After planting, watering, pruning, and maintaining your tree, it will bear delicious plums to reward you for your work. With regular care, your plum tree will continue to bloom and produce plums for years to come. EditChoosing Your Plum Tree and Planting Site - Choose a type of plum that will thrive where you live. European plum trees will grow in most climates. Japanese plum trees need warmer climates. American hybrid plums are the hardiest and can survive even in cold, harsh conditions.
- Pick a European type if you have space for just one tree. Japanese plum trees and American hybrids need to cross-pollinate, which means you'd need a second tree to produce fruit. If you have space for only one tree, go with a European plum tree. It will also grow well in most climates.[1]
- In general, Japanese plums are sweet and juicy, with red skin. European plums are very sweet and purple. American hybrids vary in appearance and taste, but many are similar to Japanese plums.[2]
- Start with a grafted plum tree for the best plums. A grafted plum tree is a young tree that has been attached to a root to improve its growth. Grafted plum trees produce delicious fruit. You can grow a plum tree from a plum seed, but the fruit may not taste the same.
- A local nursery will have plum trees that grow well in your climate.[3]
- Choose a planting site with well-drained soil so your tree will grow. Plum trees grow best in rich soil that isn't constantly wet. If the soil retains water, it might cause your tree's roots to rot. Check the drainage by digging a hole deep and filling it with water. If the water drains within 1 hour, the site has good drainage.
- If your planting site doesn't have good drainage, choose a different spot in your yard. You can also install gutters and drains or regrade your soil to redirect water.
- Make sure your planting site gets 6 to 8 hours of sunlight per day. Your plum tree will need 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight each day to grow. Avoid spots where frost might settle and spots that experience high winds.[4]
- Give your tree at least of space all around to grow. If you're planting multiple plum trees, space them at least apart.[5]
EditPlanting the Tree - Plant during spring for the easiest experience. If you live in a region with cold winters and hot summers, wait until the spring to plant your plum tree. It will be easiest to dig the hole for your tree, and your young tree's roots will adapt to the soil well.[6]
- By planting in the spring you'll also avoid frost, which can damage your tree.[7]
- Dig a hole slightly deeper and wider than the tallest, longest roots. Try not to bend the roots so they can spread and grow. Your trees roots will grow outward. Make sure its longest roots have room to grow and form a stable base for your tree.[8]
- Loosen the soil in the sides of the hole so the roots can spread easily. If the soil in the hole is too compact, your roots will have trouble breaking through and growing outwards. You can loosen the soil with the tip of your shovel or a handheld tool like a trowel.[9]
- Check that your tree's graft line is not submerged in the hole. The graft line is a clear line or "scar" near the base, where the root and tree join. The graft line should remain at least above the soil when your tree is in the hole so it can grow properly.[10]
- If your hole is too deep, fill it little by little with soil you removed until the graft line is at the right position.[11]
- Refill the hole by packing soil around the tree's roots. Refill the hole slowly, making sure to cover each root with soil. Adjust the angle of your tree when needed so that it stays completely upright.[12]
- Fertilizer isn't needed when you plant a young grafted tree. Fertilizer can damage or kill the tree's roots.[13]
- Water your new tree weekly with of water for the first year. Newly planted trees need plenty of water the first few weeks after planting. Letting a tree get too dry can affect its growth and production of fruit. On the other hand, overwatering can damage the roots.[14]
EditCaring for Your Tree - Soak the soil for 15 minutes per week once the tree is 1 year old. After your tree has been planted for a year, it doesn't need as much water. If you live in a dry climate without much rain, soak the soil around the base of your tree with a hose for 15 to 20 minutes. If it rains once every 7 to 10 days, don't water your tree.[15]
- Give your tree more water if its leaves are curling up and turning brown. Try watering it every 5 or 6 days at first, or soak it for 25 to 30 minutes when watering it.[16]
- Give your tree less water if its leaves are turning yellow and falling from the branches. Wait to water it every 10 or 13 days, or soak the soil for 10 minutes instead.[17]
- If you live in a humid or wet climate, your tree is probably getting plenty of moisture. Let the weather water your tree naturally when it rains.[18]
- Trim the branches above buds with a lopper to encourage growth. Pruning your young tree for the first time in late winter will set its shape and encourage growth the following spring. Cut branches above outward-facing buds so that the branch will grow up and out.
- Use a pruning tool that will make clean cuts, like a lopper, to discourage pests and disease.
- Cut any shoots that form on the bottom of the trunk, as they take away energy from the rest of the tree.
- Keep your tree healthy by clearing damaged or fallen branches. Prune branches that have broken from high winds or storms. Cut these damaged sections where they naturally meet undamaged parts of the branch to avoid leaving stubs. Rake and remove fallen debris in the fall. [19]
- Fertilize your tree in early spring after its first crop of fruit. Fruit trees younger than 3 or 4 years old don't require fertilizer unless they are not growing about per year. Using gloves, spread a mild, slow-release fertilizer about away from your tree's trunk.
- A 10-10-10 ratio fertilizer is recommended for plum trees, which has equal parts nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium.[20]
- Use mulch around the trunk to hydrate and control weeds in the spring. Cypress mulch can cut down the evaporation of water near the soil's surface, helping your tree conserve water. Mulch made from cedar will block weeds from sunlight so they don't grow and affect your plum tree.[21]
- Apply mulch around the base of your tree so that it's thick.
- When organic mulch like cypress and cedar decomposes, it also provides nutrients to your tree, so it can be used as an alternative to fertilizer.[22]
- You can make your own mulch from tree branches, bark, and leaves.
- Treat diseases like brown rot by pruning damaged sections. Brown rot is a common disease that affects plum trees. Withered brown twigs and flowers covered in sticky brown drops are signs of brown rot. Prune and destroy any affected fruits, twigs, leaves, and flowers.[23]
- You can also apply a fungicide like myclobutanil to treat brown rot.[24]
- Harvest ripe plums when they feel soft and detach from the tree easily. If you pick plums early, put them in a clean paper bag with the top folded over and let them sit at room temperature for a day or two. Your plum is ripe when your fingertip makes a small dent, but doesn't puncture the skin. [25]
- European plums can be picked when they're fully ripened. You can pick Japanese and American Hybrid plums slightly early and ripen them.
- Use your plums to make dishes like grilled plums or plum jam.
- When using materials like fertilizer or fungicide, follow the manufacturer's instructions for use.
- If you purchase a grafted tree from a local nursery, you can speak to the nursery employees for advice on growing your tree. They'll have tips for growing in your local climate.
EditThings You'll Need - Grafted plum tree
- Shovel
- Trowel
- Hose
- Pruning tool
- Fertilizer
- Mulch
- Fungicide
EditReferences
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