Thyme in Healing and Aromatherapy

Thyme has a definite role in aromatherapy. Its scientific name is Thymus vulgaris and is steam distilled. It is 100% pure organic essential oil. It is reddish brown in color and it has a slightly oily and medium consistency. The active ingredients of thyme are thymol, carvacrol, terpinene, cymene, bornel, and linalool. Thyme was used in early civilizations and both Dioscorides and Hippocrates described how thyme was used. Thyme is distilled twice to remove any substances that can be an irritant.

The first strength of the aroma is medium to strong. Thyme is used in several ways for medicinal purposes. It is known to help arthritis, cuts, flu, insect boys, lice, oily skin, poor circulation, dermatitis, colds, and sore throats. There are many uses for this popular essential oil. The only safety concerns are that it not be used in patients that suffer from hypertension. It also can be an irritant to the skin and mucous membrane. Thyme is from the same family as sage and is a strong stimulant. As with all oils, the thyme oil is potent. Use only as directed for maximum benefit.

Thyme can be used as a stimulant to the circulation and raise low blood pressure. Thyme is also good for those who are feeling drowsy, depressed, or fatigued. It’s an appetite stimulant and is good for those that have been seriously ill. Thyme is also known to stimulate the brain and improve memory.

There are some wonderful benefits to using thyme. Diluted in oil it is wonderful for a massage. Massage those parts that you can reach, or have someone else massage any affected area. It will help relieve sore muscles and minor pains of arthritis.

If you add six to eight drops in your bathwater and soak for at least 10 minutes, you will sleep better that night. You can use thyme as a steam inhalant by placing two drops of oil in a steaming bowl of water, draping your head with a towel and taking deep breaths. Using one drop while cooking can help digest your food more efficiently.

Thyme is a strong antiseptic and is often used for disinfecting hands before surgery. It is helpful in gastric infections. Thyme is effective for treating all forms of infection. It’s especially effective against mouth and throat infections, colds, coughs, and sore throats. It can be used as an inhalant, mouthwash, or gargle. Thyme is also good for mouth and gum infections.

There are so many uses for this essential oil, thyme is used in cooking and aids digestion. It’s also good for urinary tract antiseptic, and for use in treating infections in the bladder and urinary tract.

Thyme is used also to ward off infections. By stimulating the production of white corpuscles, it increases the body’s resistance to any organisms that are trying to attack from the outside.

As well as the other benefits that thyme has, it can also be used in hot compresses to relieve pain and joint pain related to rheumatism. Used in hair rinses, it can also be used for sores and wounds. In addition, because it is an antifungal it can also be safely used for athlete’s feet.

Thyme is used in over-the-counter products such as Listerine mouthwash and Vicks VapoRub. It is well-known for its antibacterial and antifungal properties.

Thyme tea is often used for coughs from emphysema, bronchitis, and even whooping cough. Tea made from thyme is also good for colds and flu.

To make the tea you need two teaspoons of dried herb for each cup of boiling water. Let it steep for ten minutes. You may want to add sage to the tea if you have a nagging cough. Thyme was an active ingredient in the over-the-counter cough syrup called Pertussin. You can make the tea a little stronger and it’s effective in treating sore gums.

There are many uses for this essential oil and its all-natural essence makes it a wonderful addition to your essential oil collection. With the many uses of thyme, wouldn’t it be a good idea to stock up on this essential oil and seriously consider some of the cures that can be gained from it.

Scents as an Alternative Therapy

The word “scented” appears on everything from perfumes to household cleaning products. Increasingly, people are aware of the benefits that can be achieved through our sense of smell and are incorporating aromatherapy into their beauty and holistic health care regimens.

Aromatherapy is a completely natural form of therapy that promotes relaxation, relieves symptoms of certain ailments and promotes mental and physical well-being. In its practice, essential oils are inhaled, massaged into the skin or added to a hot bath. According to many aroma therapists and holistic health practitioners, the fragrances of the essential oils, which are highly concentrated plant extracts, have a soothing effect on the brain’s limbic system, the part of your mind involved in memory, emotion and control of hormones. Many experts believe that aromatherapy relaxes the muscles and quiets the brain when applied correctly.

Aromatherapy, though, is not a new concept. Ancient civilizations used plant extracts and fragrances for anointment in religious ceremonies, as healing ointments, and to boost the overall mood of citizens. We have plenty of archaeological data regarding Egyptian culture, which used resins and plant extracts in their ceremonies and medical practices. Western medicine, however, discarded the evident health benefits during the 1800’s, which generally rejected holistic medical practices in favor of their newer scientific discoveries.

Then, in 1928, Rene Maurice Gattefosse, a French chemist, applied lavender oil to a burn on his hand, easing his pain and minimizing the scar. This led him to continue to research this lost art of healing, and he soon coined the word “aromatherapy,” citing the many positive benefits that aromatic oils had on the human body.

What makes aromatherapy make sense as an alternative treatment? While it is rarely thought of as a cure or used as the sole treatment for any ailment, aromatherapy achieves positive health benefits for the body on both the physical and mental levels. The fragrance is carried to the brain through the body's sensory receptors. The brain, in turn, reacts to the fragrance. When the fragrance hits the brain, the effects can be calming, invigorating, relaxing or stimulating depending upon the fragrance used. The oils can also be carried into the body through the skin via massage or submersion in a bath, carrying the healthful properties into the body through the pores. Each essential oil, highly concentrated and carefully produced for purity, either calms or stimulates the skin when applied.

The right fragrances can trigger an emotional reaction, called the “nose-brain connection.” According to scientists, olfactory nerves that connect to the hypothalamus and pituitary gland pick up odor molecules as they travel through the nose. Our limbic system creates a response to the smell, either in the form of a thought or a memory. This causes a response in our thought processes and mood, thus releasing into the body the chemicals that soothe and relax, or that invigorate and stimulate us.

This response is the reason holistic practitioners have been adding aromatherapy to their health care regimes, as have massage therapists and other health professionals. Combining the positive benefits of touch with the enhancement of essential oils and aromatherapy, massage therapists have been very successful in providing their clients with the release of tension inside the muscle tissues and the calming of the mind at the same time. Clients report that aromatherapy added to their massage sessions go deeper and last longer than without the addition of aromatherapy.

If you are interested in aromatherapy, some of these tips might help. Pour a few drops of essential oils into the palm of your hand, and then deeply inhale the fragrance. You could also pour 10-20 drops of an essential oil into hot bathwater before soaking. Infusers, oil warmers and diffusers are also effective tools in dispensing the aromas of essential oils. Remember, these oils are highly concentrated, and a few might be toxic, so never ingest an essential oil. Also, because of the high concentration—a few drops of an essential can contain the extract of an entire plant—it’s also important to dilute the oil in a carrier-oil before applying it directly to the skin. When used alone, aromatherapy is a powerful tool to promote wellness and healing. See how it can change your sense of well being.

Top 5 Aromatherapy Scents: Sleep and Relaxation

There are few things more frustrating than not being able to get to sleep. After a long day of accomplishing whatever life has put in front of us for the day, be that working in the office, out on the slopes or home with the children, we all need to be able to unwind then slip into bed and have a relaxed nights sleep. If you spend your time tossing and turning instead then you need to find alternatives to improve your sleeping habits. One option, of course, is taking sleeping medications, but why not do something better for your body? Don’t use chemicals. Use a natural approach to helping you relax and sleep and what could be better than using aromatherapy.

Aromatherapy is the ability to use essential oils to improve both your physical and emotionally well-being. These essential oils can improve many things for you from alleviating headaches and anxiety to helping you relax and sleep. Essential oils are distilled from various plant materials including bark, flowers, berries, leaves or fruit. Essential oils are reasonably priced and available at your local grocery store or from any health shop.

Although there are many essential oils that can be used to help you relax or make it easier to get to sleep there are a few that are particularly good in fulfilling those needs. Studies have show that the top five are lavender, chamomile, bergamot, sandalwood and mandarin.

One of the single most popular essential oils is lavender. This herb can be grown in your own garden. It’s a bushy plant with pale violet leaves that bloom all summer long. Among its varied uses, its good for digestion or as an anti-depressant, it has been found to be especially good at calming the nervous system, relaxing the body and enabling blissful sleep. You can use this essential oil in a warm bath or with a diffuser, which is also known as a mist maker.

From the chamomile plant only the flowers are used to make this excellent therapeutic essential oil. As a tea it is know to calm upset stomachs. Used in aromatherapy, it is at its best helping with those who suffer from insomnia. It has a fruity slightly sweet fragrance. Both the German and Roman chamomiles are good for this purpose.

Bergamot comes from citrus fruit rind. It does its job by relieving stress and enabling the subject to relax. It has a lovely citrus scent that will make you feel refreshed and give you that sense of well-being. Interestingly bergamot is the main ingredient in earl grey tea.

Sandalwood does indeed come from wood. To get the right intensity of oil from the trees they must be at least forty years old, but the older the better and a tree eighty years old will produce better oils. Sandalwood is a calming agent; it relieves nervous tension and helps you relax.

Lastly there is Mandarin, which has two different types of oil, one green and the other red. It has several advantages one of which is that it is gentle enough that you can use it with children as well as adults. Interesting the scent is closer to that of a bergamot oil and less like the tangerine it’s expected to smell like. Mandarin oil is a very successful treatment for sleep difficulties almost rivaling lavender.

Sometimes using a combination of these wonderful scents can help you to feel more relaxed and ready to have a good night’s sleep. So, take lavender, chamomile and bergamot, mix them together using jojoba as your carrier oil (a carrier oil is what you use to mix the other oils into) and then you have a wonderful aromatherapy concoction ready to relax you. You can use these either in a diffuser or on your pillow, or even in an eye pillow. Having used the best of the top five you know you can count on a peaceful sleep.

There are other mixtures you can make that use similar combinations but are made for different purposes, though the outcome of helping you to relax is still the purpose of the mix. Try a calming perfume, it’ll smell lovely while helping keep you relaxed.

Top 8 Aromatherapy Essential Oils

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Centuries after the Ancient Egyptians used aromatherapy, the practice is still being used. Whether you burn a candle, warm a few drops of oil, or massage the oils onto your skin, aromatherapy promotes physical and mental well-being. Aromatherapy is exciting and it seems to be everywhere you look. With so many essential oils out there to choose from you may feel a little confused; but don’t worry we’ve found the top eight essential oils on the market.

Lavender is by far the most commonly used essential oil. The fragrant flowery scent is used to promote relaxation and lift depression. Sprinkle a few drops of lavender on your pillow at night to help you get to dreamland. Mix lavender with a base oil to rub on your temples (for headaches), sore muscles, or abdominal cramps. Lavender is also useful for relieving the pain from arthritis.

Tea tree oil is right up there with lavender oil. It is known as the most powerful natural antiseptic around. Tests have shown that you can safely apply tea tree oil to your skin without diluting it (it’s one of the few essential oils that you are able to do this with). It can be applied to treat bacteria, fungi, viruses, cuts, and burns. Tea tree oil is also known for its ability to dissolve oil on the skin. Though its primary use is for physical healing, tea tree oil is also known to lift depression and exhaustion. If a revitalizing, nutmeg scent appeals to you then you will enjoy tea tree oil.

Lemon essential oil is stimulating to the mind. It is used for improving concentration and memory. Some people use lemon in aromatherapy because of the respiratory benefits; it helps asthma, bronchitis and sinus infections. Using lemon in your aromatherapy treatment will also help in regulating your body’s immune system. Lemon essential oil is phototoxic so unlike some of the other oils, it should not be used on the skin just before going out in the sun. Lemon’s scent is well, lemony.

Chamomile eases tension, anger, anxiety, stress and insomnia. Chamomile is used in aromatherapy because of its abilities to soothe and relax you. It’s also known to relieve nausea, heartburn, and menstrual cramps. Chamomile’s scent could be described as similar to that of an apple.

Eucalyptus is antiviral, anti-inflammatory, and analgesic. It’s mainly used in aromatherapy to relieve congestion, colds, coughs, sore throats, and a stuffy nose. If you have sore muscles eucalyptus can help to relieve them as well. With eucalyptus you’ll get a strong, refreshing, medicinal aroma; if you like a sweeter smell you can mix it with some lemon essential oil.

Peppermint eases anxiety, mental fatigue, tension, headaches and depression. With peppermint essential oil your alertness will increase and concentration will improve. It is also helpful with asthma, colic, nausea, vertigo, scabies, and diarrhea. If you’ve eaten too much at dinner or have menstrual cramps you, or your loved one, can rub some peppermint essential oil onto your abdomen to experience the relief it brings. Peppermint can be described as having an energizing, menthol aroma.

Geranium has a sweet, floral scent. It’s antifungal, antiseptic, and it reduces inflammation. If applied to a burn, geranium will help it to heal. Geranium is also a mild sedative as well as a muscle relaxant. If you are trying to clear up acne, brighten your skin, get rid of oily skin, or kill lice, geranium can be used to do all of this. Because of its antispasmodic properties pregnant women should not use geranium.

Rosemary’s scent is slightly medicinal and sweet. Rosemary gives you relief from arthritis, dandruff, muscle cramping, muscle aches, nausea, and oily skin. It is known to be an antiseptic, antidepressant, and an analgesic. You can also use rosemary as a stimulant and a decongestant. In cases of hypertension, rosemary should not be used.

With essential oils be careful not to use too much. They are highly concentrated and can be too strong smelling or be a skin irritant if too much is used. A rule of thumb is to use the least amount of essential oil possible. A few drops is usually enough to get your desired results.

Top Aromatherapy Scents for Stress Relief

There are a variety of aromatherapy scents that can be useful for calming and relieving stress. It is true that the very process of Aromatherapy is calming, but some essential oils, in and of themselves, have natural powers for soothing and calming the person that is experiencing the aromas. It is important to know exactly what oils are best for what treatments. Some are better for healing and relieving certain types of pain, while others are better for promoting alertness and are thus stimulating. So, it is necessary that one know exactly what each essential oil is capable of and works best for promoting and fighting against.

Probably one of the most popular oils for calming is lavender. This oil comes from France primarily and is one of the ‘essential’ essential oils. Known for its multi-diverse functions, it can be effective for treating all sorts of ailments. But, the most common use of lavender is calming and relaxing the person. It is a very pleasant herbal and floral scent, and can calm and balance the mind and spirit. It is a hardy plant, and can grow in almost any garden. The oils from lavender, when applied in Aromatherapy, diffuse tension and anger, soothing the ‘uptight’ soul. It is also very good for the insomniac. It helps to give one a good night sleep in spite of tension and stress.

Another scent that is very calming is jasmine. Originating in India, this oil is called the “king” of oils. It possesses a rich, deep scent that is sensual and relaxing. It is also used to prevent mental blockage, nervousness and sadness. It functions quite well as an antidepressant.

Chamomile is another oil that is excellent for calming. From Italy, this oil has a powerful sedating effect. As most know, in the form of a tea chamomile is praised as a marvelous relaxing drink. In Aromatherapy, its properties are not much different. Not only does it calm, but also it reduces pain and stress.

Although it is used as invigorating oil, bergamot can be considered a calming essential oil. This Italian oil is helpful for relieving stress and ‘loosening up’ one’s tensed state.

Rose, as an essential oil is perfect for promoting a calming effect. Originating in Bulgaria, it has been used for such things as hysteria, grief and depression. It is calming and supportive, even being thought to balance out female hormonal cycles.

Clary sage, the essential oil from Russia, is one essential oil with a herbaceous, light, fruity aroma that is irresistible. With its sweet, floral fragrance, it often gives one a euphoric sense after exposure to it. In fact, clary sage is believed to help stimulate the body’s natural production of endorphins that ease fatigue and chronic pain.

Neroli is an exotic oil that is produced in several different countries including France, Morocco, Tunisia, and Egypt. The oil is extracted from the bitter orange and it is one of the best aromatic anti-depressants. It is good for stress, anxiety, shock, fear and lack of confidence.

Another top oil for calming is sandalwood. This is another oil from India and besides being useful for the treatment of acne; it is a wonderful way to calm one’s nerves. Although these essential oils are very hard to harvest and hard to find, they relax and soothe irritation as well as help lift bouts of depression.

One essential oil that is reminiscent of jasmine is Ylang Ylang. This Madagascaran “flower of flowers” is sweet, exotic, floral and sensual. It has been used as an anti-depressant and is a most exquisite way of calming one body and soul. This essential oil calms anger and releases tension, a true essential oil. As far as the physical effects that Ylang Ylang can help with, it has been known to also fight acne, lower blood pressure, ease muscle spasms, relieve the symptoms of PMS, and fight bacteria, among some of its other uses.

Lastly, a top calming essential oil is vanilla. This oil is found in such tropical places as Tahiti, Madagascar and Java. It is rich, warm and sweet and is a type of orchid. Not only is it one of the most pleasant fragrances of the oils, but also it helps promote a calm and relieves stress in its users. Also it is thought to be an aphrodisiac. These are the top calming aromatherapy oils used today.

Popular Childbirth Aromatherapy Scents

Some people hear the word childbirth and cringe. It doesn’t have to be that way though. Childbirth can be a treasured experience for you. After you’ve experienced it you may want to do it again and you may not. You may treasure it because it was an experience like no other or you may treasure it because you never have to go through it again. Whichever the case may be, aromatherapy can help you in more than one way during childbirth (not only during childbirth but during pregnancy, too). Don’t worry. Most people agree that using aromatherapy will make your labor painless and perfect. That is not true. But, it is known that aromatherapy can assist in helping you to relax, ease pain and discomfort and create a soothing atmosphere for everyone.

The drugs that are available for childbirth haven’t always been around. Historically, women had to deliver babies without any sort of medication. Some women did have the option to use herbal remedies and you can bet they were sure thankful for that. Childbirth is no picnic; it’s hard work. But with the right attitude and atmosphere, you can go into the delivery room a few steps ahead.

While on the subject of attitude and mind-set, be aware that this has a lot to do with the effectiveness of aromatherapy. If you go into the hospital expecting to have a horrible delivery and you’re all worked up in a frenzy, you may be setting yourself up for a bad experience. Once things get rolling during labor, nobody can control what’s going to happen. But, you can set yourself up for a comfortable delivery if you go into it with some tools to help you along the way.

Many women are choosing to use aromatherapy during childbirth. Many choose to go this route because of the risks associated with using other medications. Maybe you don’t want to take the risk of your baby being harmed by medications used in the hospital. Maybe you don’t like medication or needles. Or maybe you really want to experience every aspect of labor. Some of you may be planning on getting that epidural, as well as using some aromatherapy. Whatever your reason is for using aromatherapy during childbirth, you’ll be happy that you did.

Most hospitals will not allow you to have an open flame in the delivery room. You will probably have to use an essential oil diffuser or a blend of oils for massage. If you’ll be taking a bath or having a water birth, essential oils can be put into the tub.

Lavender, rose, frankincense and peppermint are the four essential oils that have been said to be the most effective during childbirth. Lavender helps to dull and ease uterine pain, increase the strength of contractions and calm the mother. Keeping calm is important during labor. It helps the whole birthing process move a lot smoother and it also helps keep your partner calm.

Rose essential oil helps to lift your spirits and this is important during childbirth. You need to be mentally alert and strong to push during those contractions. The pleasant fragrance will also help to keep you comfortable and focused.

Frankincense is a very calming essential oil that will slow and deepen your breathing. This is helpful because while you’re in labor your breathing needs to be controlled. Frankincense will help you to do just that.

Peppermint is the essential oil that women say helps them with nausea and vomiting. You definitely don’t want to feel ill in the middle of labor. This essential oil will help give you a balance and fight that nausea.

Some women like to be massaged during labor and others don’t. If it’s helpful or relaxing for you to be massaged while you’re in labor, your partner could massage the essential oils onto your temples or your abdomen. Massaging the oils into your back, especially your lower back can feel good also.

As mentioned before, you can always use a diffuser or if you’re in the tub put a few drops of your oils in there. Another clever way to benefit from essential oils is to put some in a spray bottle with water. In between contractions you can spray yourself or have somebody else do it. It will help keep you calm and cool.

Another important aspect of this is keeping your partner calm, as well. Don’t forget that anyone else that’ll be in the birthing room with you will also get some of the benefits from your essential oils. So it may be helping more than just you.

When you’re at home practicing your breathing or concentrating techniques (before the baby’s born) it would be a wonderful idea to incorporate your chosen essential oils into your practice. This would help get you into the routine of associating relaxation with that aroma. That way when you’re in labor and you smell those essential oils you’ll have that much more relaxation to help you out.

Scents For Men: Aromatherapy

Aromatherapy has been used for years for both enjoyment and medicinal purposes. You can count on a variety of essential oils to enhance your mood, ward off depression and heal the mind and body. Everyone can benefit from the use of a few essential oils. So, how about you man? Did you know that you could use these same oils as an aphrodisiac? Just mentioning the word aphrodisiac will probably turn most men’s heads. So if you want to introduce your man to the wonderful world of aromatherapy, your best bet is to start down this avenue.

Most men would not mind a little boost in the bedroom. There are a few essential oils that have been used as aphrodisiacs as well as to assist in getting or maintaining an erection. The difference between the two is that an aphrodisiac is something that heightens sexual drive or libido. An aphrodisiac will probably not give a man an erection, but it will certainly help him on his way. Getting or maintaining an erection is a different story. It is not that the man doesn’t have the sexual desire; it is that his penis is not doing what it’s supposed to do.

Agarwood is an essential oil that is said to be the most powerful of the herbal aphrodisiacs. In Indonesia ylang-ylang is known as the flower to be spread across the bed of newlywed couples. This is because the essential oil is said to have a euphoric, sedative and sensual effect on the nervous system. You can have this in the bedroom and burn the oil or use it in a massage.

If your guy is having trouble getting or maintaining an erection, try using some yohimbe essential oil. This drug is said to help blood flow to the penis and increase the strength of an erection. Do consult a physician about using this oil because it can cause problems in some men. In fact, this oil has been used for years, way before Viagra. It must work!

Now that you have got their attention by using a few essential oils in the bedroom, you can turn them onto other aspects of aromatherapy. Introduce them to tea tree oil, lemon oil, or lavender. Whether he likes flowery scents (it’s okay, he can admit it) or woody scents, light scents or heavy scents there is something out there that’ll appeal to him.

Now comes the fun part how will you two use the aromatherapy? You can use an essential oil diffuser or lamp to heat the oil and inhale the aroma. However you choose, you can be certain that the both of you will get the full benefits of these wonderful and useful oils.

A bath would be fun. Fill it up to the top with hot water and add his favorite essential oil. Besides getting the benefits of inhalation, the both of you will be soaking and softening your skin, as well. Then jump in and have fun.

One favorite that many men like and maybe yours too, would be to use your favorite essential oils to give each other massages. Make sure you dilute the essential oil with a carrier oil so that you do not irritate your skin. Essential oils are very potent and only need a little bit for each use. That’s why the bottles they come in are so small. Do not overdo the oils, as they can irritate the skin.

You could start by massaging his temples, and go to his shoulders and back. Use long, deep strokes down his arms and gentle light ones down to the tips of his fingers. You get the picture. Use this time to breathe in the relaxing aromas, give your guy a killer massage, and bond. You’ll enjoy it just as much as he does.

Or, how about washing the sheets and pillowcases in a few drops of the oil? This ensures that the scent will always will be where you need it! It is easy to add just a few drops in with your regular laundry. Just be sure that you are not adding too much. Once your man has experienced the benefits that aromatherapy offers, he will be hooked.

Hazardous Essential Oils

When trying new things, you must remember that sometimes even something that looks like a great idea can have problems associated with it. This applies even to the use of essential oils that have become so popular. Essential oils are made from plant materials such as bark, flowers, fruit, berries or leaves. These are easy to find at your local grocery store or any health shop and are not overly expensive.

To begin with, never assume that just because these oils are natural products that they pose no danger. Many aspects of nature are dangerous. Many beautiful plants are deadly. Consider the possibility that your use of essentials oils can affect others. If you use diffusers, or candles to put the fragrances in the air you should remember that those with allergies to perfumes could be affected in the same away as secondhand cigarette smoke affects others.

Anything used improperly can be hazardous to your well-being. These oils are concentrated and must always be diluted or they can have very detrimental side effects. They can cause severe skin irritation. Many of the essential oils can cause skin irritations or photosensitivity; which is a bad reaction to the sun. Using bergamot, ginger, grapefruit or many of the other citrus oils can cause this. Although most essential oils are not to be applied directly on the skin lavender and tea tree are exceptions and are good for cuts and burns. As well, lemon is good for wart removal.

Looking closer at essential oils we see that many of them are not good for using directly on the skin. The best way to determine what works for you is to try a couple of drops on your wrist. Leave it for a day and if it’s okay you can use the oil. If it has turned red or itches discontinue the use of that item.

Another concern is that, as with many things, essential oils may not mix well with certain medical conditions. If you have high blood pressure stay away form rosemary, common sage, hyssop and thyme. If you are epileptic do not use sweet fennel, hyssop, sage or rosemary. Diabetics should avoid using angelica. If you suffer from hypoglycemia you should not use geranium and someone with kidney problems should use juniper, sandalwood or coriander with caution. Pregnant woman should avoid most essential oils especially, juniper, hyssop, clary sage, peppermint, lemon, fennel, lemon verbena, rosemary and wintergreen to name a few. The ones that are all right to be used should be diluted doubly.

When drinking alcohol don’t use clary sage, as it will intensify the effects of the alcohol acting like a narcotic. When driving you should keep away from marjoram and chamomile as either one could cause drowsiness. To be safe when using essential oils be careful as they are flammable.

There are concerns that certain essential oils have been proven to or suspected of having a history of causing allergies. There are probably twenty of these. A few of the more common include; citronella, clary sage, ylang ylang, and verbena oils. There are also a few that are believed to be carcinogenic; most seriously considered dangerous are calamus and sassafras, which itself is banned across Europe from being used in toiletries and makeup.

Sweet Birch oil is potentially hazardous. It has the same active ingredient as aspirin, methyl salicyalte, and if you are treating yourself with aspirin and then use this essential oil you could overdose. It is doubly dangerous because it has a sweet smell and could prove attractive to someone who did not know what it was like a child. Make sure this one has the top on tight and is stored safely away

What is the final thought on of all this? While essential oils have been proven to be useful in helping keep you emotionally and physically fit, there are, like many things in life, reasons to be cautious. As well, remember to always use essential oils in moderation. So, as you would with anything new you may decide to try, be careful and research the essential oil you want to try before starting to use it. Common sense is always your best advisor.

Aromatherapy for Beginners

There are many helpful do’s and don’ts about aromatherapy that can help those interested in having a better understanding of how to appropriately use it. One ‘do’ that is necessary is read as much as you can about it. There are many great websites, books and other sources that can provide a lot of useful information for the beginner.

Another ‘do’ is to be wary of where you purchase these essential oils. The quality of the oils used in aromatherapy varies and it is important to make sure that you get not only the best for your money, but purchase the most effective and highest quality product. It is not too uncommon to find companies making false claims about their products. Make sure that you have some background information about the manufacturers and retail stores that carry these materials. The more you know about them the better.

Do pay close attention to the region or country where the essential oils purchased are harvested. Some countries are known for higher quality oils than others. Most retailers make available this information, even on some occasions informing the consumer of the best and worst regions for such oils. After all, some countries harvest their oils from plants that are grown organically and thus of a higher quality than others. Knowing this will help finding the right oils for you easier.

Do make sure to purchase oils from well-established companies and not ‘alley vendors’. The less one is sure about the reputation of the retailer the more likely one will receive a lower quality product. Remember, it is your health and well being at stake. Although some products may come cheaper, there is a larger price to pay, in the end.

Do store your oils in some sort of glass, preferably of a darker color such as amber or cobalt blue and in a dark, cool area. Keeping the oils free from extensive exposure to light and heat will only extend the life of the oils so that you can keep them longer.

But, don’t purchase perfumed oils thinking that they are a less expensive alternative to essential oils. Although they have a pleasing smell like essential oils, they lack the therapeutic feature of them. It is true that performed oils offer a pleasant fragrance, but that is all they will give off. It would be better to go ahead and purchase the essential oils and get the benefits of aroma and therapy.

Don’t buy essential oils that are stored in glass jars that have a rubber sealant. The oils, being that they are very concentrated, will only eat away at the rubber, turning it to a gummy-like substance. This will ultimately ruin the oils by tainting it with the substance.

Don’t ignore the safety information that is inscribed on the packages of Aromatherapy materials. Most of this information is for your best interest and should be read and understood. Much of the information is instructional. It may tell you to use only a certain portion of the product at a time, as to prevent you from being overexposed to the oils. Or, the instructions may describe in details the way in which the oils should be diffused. Whatever it may say, do not just glance over it, but take your time to read all of the information carefully.

Don’t assume that the names of the plant from which the oils are derived are the same in each botanical species. Pay close attention to the botanical name, which is often a Latin derivative, to distinguish one essential oil from another. Just because two oils came from a similar plant with the same name does not imply that they are exactly the same. In many cases, there are significant differences that should be attended to. Anise, Lavender, Bay, Cedarwood, and Eucalyptus are all common names, but there are many varieties of these plants that could make a big difference in the type of aromatherapy one wishes to experience.

The last ‘do’ is a simple one. Try to enjoy aromatherapy. Though there maybe much to remember as to picking the right types of oils, finding the right manufacturer, retailer and regional producer, in the end it can be quite enjoyable. So, don’t let being a beginner to the do’s and don’t’s stop you from experiencing it.

What Are Essential Oils in Aromatherapy?

Essential oils are used throughout the various types of aromatherapy treatments. They have been referred to as the quintessence of a plant's being. The Oxford English Dictionary defines quintessence as "An extract from anything, containing in concentrated form its most essential principle." Essential oils are concentrated aromatic liquids extracted from a variety of aromatic plant material through the process of distillation. These natural organic substances are produced in various glands and sacs within aromatic plants. Each essential oil is usually produced in one part of the plant, except in a few cases. Where a plant produces essential oils in more than one of its parts, differences of odor and in chemical composition occur. For example, the oil from the leaves of the cinnamon tree has a cinnamon and clove like odor; where as the oil from the bark has the characteristic ‘cinnamon’ odor. Another example is from the bitter orange tree: Bitter orange oil is produced from the peel, petitgrain from the leaf and neroli from the blossom; all have different odors yet similar properties.

In traditional aromatherapy circles, Essential oils are extracted from many different kinds of plants. They can be extracted from culinary herbal plants. Some examples of this can be seen in basil, clary sage, rosemary, peppermint, and thyme. Essential oils can also be extracted from various kinds of seeds. For example, angelica, coriander, black pepper and cardamom all have wonderful essential oils with a variety of different properties. Fruits like lemon, mandarin, bergamot, grapefruit and lime also have some great essential oils that are quite helpful throughout the practice of aromatherapy. There are many flowers like rose, ylang ylang, jasmine & lavender that have the perfect essential oils for aromatherapy treatment procedures. Some resins including frankincense, myrrh, benzoin and elemi have essential oils that can be extracted for aromatherapy purposes. Many of the woods from various kinds of trees make excellent essential oils for aromatherapy. Some examples include cedarwood, sandalwood, camphor and cinnamon. Wood, though, isn't the only useful part of the tree in terms of essential oils for aromatherapy purposes. Leaves and twigs can also be quite helpful for this purpose. The leaves and twigs of tea tree, eucalyptus, melissa, petitgrain and patchouli have been found to be quite helpful in aromatherapy procedures. Some grasses including lemon grass & palmarosa are used extensively throughout aromatherapy. Roots, Rhizomes & Bulbs including angelica, ginger, garlic & vetiver are also used in most aromatherapy treatments.

Each plant contains a percentage (which varies between 5% - .01%) of essential oil, and it is this fact that dictates the amount of plant material needed for distillation to create a specified amount of essential oil. For example, it takes up to 100 kilos of rose petals to produce 1/2 liter of rose whilst 100 kilos of lavender will yield approximately 3 liters of lavender essential oil. The quantity of plant material needed also dictates pricing of the individual essential oils.

The quality of an essential oil is influenced by a number of factors, such as its geographical and botanical source, the prevailing climate, the standards of local farming, the time of harvesting and the skill of individual harvesters and distillers. The essential oils used in aromatherapy are only a small proportion compared with that of the food, pharmaceutical and cosmetic trade. In the food trade, essential oils are used as flavorings for many different dishes. In the pharmaceutical industry, essential oils are used quite differently. In most cases, they are used for medicines, toothpastes, gargles, cough sweets and inhalations. Friar's Balsam and Vick's Vaporub is a good example of products they are used in. Moreover, the pharmaceutical industry uses a variety of essential oils in various products.

For example, clove oil is commonly used in toothpaste. Peppermint oil is in many of the products you consume for digestive disorders. Eucalyptus oil is commonly inhaled to help deal with stuff noses and colds. Lavender oil is a great remedy for insect repellent or after bite soothing lotion. Tea tree oil is used throughout dentistry practices. The use of essential oils, though, doesn't stop there. In the cosmetic trade essential oils are used in face creams, make up and perfume. Essential oils have many different uses in the world of aromatherapy treatments.

Aromatic Essential Oils For Aches and Pains

Many people suffer from the discomforts of muscle pain. How often have you pulled or twisted yourself in the wrong way or overdone it in your exercise program only to find the aches and pains bad enough you had to do something about it. There are many alternatives for the care of these discomforts. You can use painkillers like ibuprofen, hot or cold packs often work or you can try using natural pain relief with aromatic essential oils.

Essential oils, those fragrant bottles of mysterious natural healing, are made from plant materials such as leaves, bark, flowers, berries or fruit. All of these can easily be found at your local grocery store or health shop. You’ll find that they are not overly expensive for what they are able to do.

To overcome the discomforts of muscle aches and pains caused by cramps or cramping you have quiet a variety of aromatic essential oils you can use. Eucalyptus is one of the best natural remedies available. For pain an adult may mix .05 milligrams of eucalyptus oil with warm water. This is one that can be taken internally. Mixing it with five hundred milligrams of warm water should dilute thirty milligrams of this essential oil. Then use this mixture by putting some on your temples to ease the pain of tension headaches. When using this oil remember that a mere 3.5 milligrams take internally can be fatal. Before using internally it’s a good idea to talk over treatments with a knowledgeable professional.

If there were only one essential oil you were able to choose, it would have to be Lavender. This wonderful natural healer is able to do so many things. It has widespread uses and is especially useful not only for pain relief but for relief of headache pain as well. It can be used directly on the skin and is known to be particularly useful in the treatment of minor burns. It also stimulates blood flow and this aids in healing. Rubbed into the joints it eases the pains of arthritis. As well, a therapeutic massage with lavender oil will do wonders for any aches and pains.

Ginger is another essential oil that works wonder for aches and pains. It lessens the inflammation as well as lowers the amount of prostaglandins in the body. These are the body’s receptors that effect constriction and so pain. Massage ginger oil into sore aching muscles; it will definitely give some relief to overworked muscles. Rheumatoid arthritis responds to ginger as well. Nothing better for that painful condition than a massage using ginger oil. The pain improves as the inflammation decreases.

Another oil that comes highly recommended for pain relief is peppermint. Unlike the others we have discussed, all of which assist in improving muscular pain, peppermint acts on different pain centers. Peppermint works very well in relieving the pain that is caused by any colicky condition. It is also used to reduce pain following surgery. Often the most common pain after surgery is caused by intestinal gas. Peppermint helps with this and especially for woman who have had to undergo a c-section peppermint removes this painful problem. Some people swear by peppermint as the reliever of the terrible pain suffered by those with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). On this one, studies are inconclusive.

For all the women who are trying to look into the best possible scenarios for giving birth, essential oils now give you another alternative. The use of clary sage in the delivery room is making a big difference! Place a couple of cotton balls under the pillow of the mother in labor. It has a strong smell so you won’t need to use much. Clary sage helps with process of labor, often aiding the contractions with becoming more regular and so speed up the labor. It also relaxes the mother and so lessens the pain she is experiencing. Rubbed into the skin it can be sufficient to alleviate enough of the stress of delivery to mean that she will require no other pain medication. Remember though, when using in the delivery room make sure it is clary sage you choose as sage can be toxic to the unborn child.

Can Aromatherapy Benefit Babies?

Aromatherapy is the wonderful smell of a baby fresh from its bath, smelling clean, feeling warm and cuddly. Oh wait, that’s another type of aromatherapy! The truth is, your baby can benefit from aromatherapy and massage. The trick is to use moderation, carrier oil and never using anything but tiny drops of essential oils. Using small amounts of essential oils can be used only when the baby is over three months old.

Massages for babies under three months old can be very beneficial and will help with the bonding between mother and child. Massage is just as relaxing for an infant as it is for an adult. Starting massages on your child can make a difference between a contented baby and a cranky one.

How do you manage a massage on such a tiny little body? First, again, never use essential oils on your child until they are over three months old, and then use sparingly. Massage is comforting and can help ease colic. Choose a time when the baby is comfortable and relaxed. Don’t try to massage just before or just after a meal. After their bath is the best time, warm, cuddly, and relaxed. Take them to a warm room, after unwrapping them from their warm, cozy towel, lay them on the floor or the bed. Lay them either on the front or the back, whichever one they seem to prefer until they are used to their massage.

Pour a little carrier oil into your hands (half a teaspoon is usually enough.) Use carrier oil like Apricot Kernel or Grapeseed. As good as baby oil smells, it isn’t good for your baby. It blocks skin pores and is the worst possible stuff to use on your baby. The baby’s skin can’t breathe and baby acne can usually be blamed on the use of baby oil on your infant. Mineral oil is also not good to use on your baby. If you don’t have any of the special oil mentioned, use a little olive oil.

You’ve warmed the oil by rubbing your palms together now it is time to start on your baby massage. Starting with the front of the baby, place your hand at the top of their chest and gently bring it down in a clockwise motion. You will rub gently over the ribs, down the tummy, circling the abdomen and bring your hand back to its starting position. Gently take both hands and run them gently up and down each arm. Repeat this process ten times. Remember; be firm but tender while doing this massage.

Use the same gentle motion down the legs, if you feel your hands are getting dry; add a few drops of oil. Start at the foot, gently press upwards to the top of the leg, and back down. These also need to be repeated ten times.

Roll your baby over onto their tummy; it’s time to do the back. Begin with the legs, starting at the feet; slide your hands up and down the legs about ten times. Then up the back and that is done pretty much the same way as the front. Start near the shoulders in the middle, slide your hand down in a large circle movement, back up to the starting position then down over the shoulders, down the arms, and back up again. This motion should be repeated ten times just as the front was.

You can use a special massage if your baby is suffering from colic or constipation. These two conditions are equally distressing both for the baby and the parent. Using the same motions but only using the tips of two or three fingers can relieve this. Warming the carrier oil in your hand, place your fingers at the top of the abdomen. This is just under the navel and gently but firmly move them around in a clockwise motion. Repeat this motion ten times. How is your baby responding? If the crying is less, you can do these motions a little longer. The same type of finger massage is good for constipation.

When your baby is three to six months old, you can begin to use essential oils but never more than a drop or two. This massage technique can be continued for as long as it is good for both parent and baby. In time, both you and your infant will look forward to this time of day.

Making a little chest cream can treat colds and coughs. Choose a cream that such as lanolin that has no fragrances or allergens. Add one-drop eucalyptus, Roman Chamomile, and two drops of lavender for each tablespoon of cream. Rub this mixture into the chest going clockwise up, over the throat and continuing behind the ears. Use the same motion for the back.

You can use essential oils in the room but only with a diffuser. One-drop of Eucalyptus and two drops of lavender and be sure the diffuser is not close to their bed. Oils are powerful, natural, but not harmless! In the case of essential oils, more is not better.

Aromatherapy and Your Love Life

Whether you want to set the mood for a romantic evening, help your lover feel less anxious or inhibited, or arouse their sensual side, there’s an essential oil to help you.

Aromatherapy has been practiced for thousands of years and continues to be practiced today. Aromatherapy refers to the use of essential oils for mental, physical, or emotional purposes. You can use aromatherapy for a number of benefits but this article will focus on love potions.

Scents can have a powerful effect on a person. People have known this for centuries. Throughout history people have used the sense of smell as a way to attract others for love and seduction. Look at the perfume industry for example. They know what a powerful connection there is between the olfactory organs and emotions and they’ve cashed in on it.

So how does it work? The olfactory system (associated with your nose) is connected straight to your limbic system. The limbic system is often referred to as ‘the brain’s pleasure center.’ This is because the limbic system controls sensory experience, emotions, processing memory, hunger and sex drive. This is why certain smells will bring back a vivid memory. Just like that you can be transported back in time.

Certain essential oils can act as an aphrodisiac (an agent which arouses one’s sexual drive). Cultures all over the world have been using herbal aphrodisiacs for years. Patchouli, sandalwood, rose and agarwood are essential oils that act as aphrodisiacs. Agarwood is said to be the most powerful in the group. Ginger has a warm, spicy aroma and is mentioned in the Kama sutra for its aphrodisiac properties as well. It is deemed the fragrance ‘to gain the affection of a woman’ by people in the Melanesian islands.

Ylang-ylang is used in many oriental or floral perfumes and is also said to act as an aphrodisiac. When couples get married in Indonesia, it is a custom to spread ylang-ylang flowers across their bed. It is used because of its euphoric, sedative, and sensual effect on a person’s nervous system. What better way to start off a marriage?

Other essential oils that are ideal to mix with ylang-ylang include: jasmine, lavender, cinnamon, bergamot, rosewood, tea tree, and lemon. Because essential oils are so highly concentrated they are very potent. This means that you just need a tiny bit in order to achieve the desired effect. If you use too much it may cause your lover to get a headache or feel nauseous and we most certainly don’t want any of that. Usually one to three drops is a safe amount to use.

If your lover is a little shy or nervous in the bedroom ylang-ylang helps to curb their inhibition and boost confidence. Rose and sandalwood essential oils will also help to relax your partner in the bedroom and bring out their sensual side.

Many people are misled by the name aromatherapy. Because of the word ‘aroma’ they assume that it relies solely on the sense of smell. But this is not the case. A great number of essential oils have properties, which will enhance or restore physical health as well. Some oils have healing properties when applied to the body and some have a direct stimulating effect. Certain essential oils have been said to have hormone like influences on a person, as well.

Not only does aromatherapy aid in setting the mood for love and romance but it will also help with physical difficulties in the bedroom. Far before Viagra there was yohimbe oil. It has been used for many years in other countries for erectile dysfunction. Using yohimbe as a part of your aromatherapy practice increases both blood flow to the penis and norepinephrine in the brain. Yohimbe has been shown to increase the strength and stamina of penile erection along with a general awakening of the libido. If you do use yohimbe essential oil be sure to consult a physician first.

Choosing which oils to use to enhance your love life is the hardest part of aromatherapy. And that’s only because there are so many to choose from. After you’ve found something that both you and your partner like, you can get to the fun stuff.

Deciding how to put aromatherapy into practice will be fun for both of you. Whether you choose to massage one another, take a bath, or heat the oil be creative and have fun.

Aromatherapy: Can It Boost Your Immune System?

Aromatherapy is a safe, natural, proven way in which to boost your immune system. For thousands of years people have been using essential oils for exactly that. There are many essential oils for you to choose from which will help protect your immune system.

This article will talk about stress and the immune system. Stress is a major culprit in the breakdown of the immune system. Today who doesn’t have stress in their lives? A little stress can be good but when it gets to be too much your body will tell you. If you pay attention, you can tell when you’re going too many directions at one time.

How does stress break down your immune system? When you experience something stressful your body secretes a hormone called cortisol. Cortisol is helpful in small doses because it helps you to react in dangerous situations. But the system is set up so that once the danger is gone, that same hormone can help your body restore homeostasis. If there is prolonged stress, the cortisol level doesn’t have a chance to return to a lesser amount.

Too much cortisol in your blood for an extensive period of time will lower the immunity responses in your body. The first step in using aromatherapy to boost your immune system is to help yourself relax. Essential oils that are known for their ability to decrease stress and promote relaxation are: tea tree oil, chamomile, and lavender. You can heat the oils to fill the room with the vapors, put them into the bath and soak, or you can use the oil for massage.

Using essential oils for massage will benefit you three different ways. Massage is good for circulation and to help relax you, as you inhale the vapors of the essential oils you will feel your anxiety lifted away, and your skin will get nourished as well.

Skin is the first and most important barrier that keeps infection out of the bloodstream. Take care of it because it you don’t you may have a break down of your body’s first line of defense. Tea tree oil is a common essential oil used for skin care. But there are so many out there to choose from that you should find which one would work best for your skin type. Use the oil to steam, massage, or wash your face; soak in a bath; or use as a spritzer and it will help strengthen your skin’s defense.

Popular for its reputation as being the most powerful natural antiseptic, is tea tree oil. It can be used to treat acne, warts, boils, burns, athlete’s foot and vaginal infections. Because of weakening of the immune system, many people that are positive for HIV develop thrush (a yeast infection in the mouth and throat). A lot of times the thrush is resistant to the antibiotics. But because tea tree oil is often able to kill these resistant fungi and bacteria many patience have been able to use it as an alternative medication.

Frankincense is another essential oil that is known for the ability to protect against bacteria. Back in ancient cultures frankincense was often burning in temples or churches. With so many people so close to one another infections and viruses can spread quickly. One reason that frankincense was used was because of its ability to fight against viruses and bacteria and support the people’s immune systems.

When your immune system has taken a crash and you’ve gotten a cold, cough, sore throat, upset stomach, laryngitis or flu there are essential oils that can help you get rid of the ailment. Tea tree oil is proven to work for each of these ailments. Peppermint essential oil will help you get rid of your upset stomach.

Aromatherapy can help boost your immune system in more than one way. You can use is as preventative medicine all the time or when you get sick or feel like you’re getting sick, get out the essential oils. Any way that you choose to practice aromatherapy be safe and remember what role stress plays in the weakening of your immune system.

Essential Oil Combinations: Achieve a Balanced Scent

Increasingly, aromatherapy is one of the most fashionable types of alternative medicine in the world today. Perhaps one of the reasons it is so popular is that it is quite helpful for a number of different applications. In the world of medicine, there are a number of different applications. Women use it to ease labor pains on a regular. You don't have to be sick to benefit from aromatherapy, though. It can simply help you to focus your mind. It can improve your memory, improve your mood, it can even invigorate you after a long night. Making your own essential oil combinations can help you to take your daily aromatherapy rituals one step further.

If you intend to make essential oil combinations of your own, you must first understand a number of things related to essential oils. First, essential oils are classified according to notes. Top notes, on a general basis, are essential oils that tend to evaporate rather quickly. For the most part, essential oils that are classified as top notes tend to have anti-viral properties. Top notes are almost always quite fresh. They usually have properties that make them seem uplifting. They are also lighter scents than most. If you go to purchase essential oils that have been classified as top notes, they are usually quite inexpensive. They act very quickly. They usually have very little substance, and the first whiff of a top note essential oil will give you a good impression of the oil itself. Top notes do not last as long as some others. Middle notes tend to be most helpful in giving a sense of body to whatever essential oils blend they are being used in. They do a good job of balancing the blends, which is one of the reasons they are so popular.

For the most part, when you go to smell an essential oils blend, the middle notes will not always hit you at once. It may take a few minutes before you even notice them in any essential oils blend. Middle notes are warmer style fragrances. They have soft overtones that make them perfect for blending. Essential oils that are called base notes tend to be heavier than any other notes. They have a very solidified scent. Base notes stay present for a much longer period of time than any other oil, and they can truly help to slow down the level of evaporation most other essential oils experience. These are very intense experiences. Their rich nature tends to be relaxing for most, and they also tend to be the most expensive of all aromatherapy essential oils. In order to achieve a perfect scent balance, there are several things you should keep in mind. Remember that top notes hit hard to begin with, but leave quickly. Try balancing them evenly with a blend of middle notes and base notes. Remember that you want your final blend to be emotionally enjoyable.

You can start your first essential oils blending experience by choosing a combination of essential oils that you like and use on a regular basis. It is important to remember to choose at least one top note, one middle note, and one base note. While you can just choose a combination of scents that you think would work well together, if you are unsure about these kinds of things, stick with the basic notes formula. It will be a process of experimentation and learning no matter what you do at this stage. Grab a small glass jar for your next step. Dip a cotton swab into the first essential oil. Put it in your glass jar. Do this again for each essential oil that you have chosen. Don't forget to write them down as you add them. Once you have placed all of your swabs in one jar, leave it for a few minutes. Come back and smell it. Does it work for you? If so, you are ready to put the lid on the jar and leave it for several hours.

Open it and smell it again. If you still like it, you are ready to blend the oils. Once you have blended equal parts of each essential oil in an airtight container, put the lid on it and leave it for at least forty-eight hours. When you reopen the jar, you will have the scent you created.

Aromatherapy: Use of Absolutes

There can be no doubt that the full richness of an aroma is most perfectly captured in the living plant itself. When one enters an environment where the air is vibrating with the fragrant symphony of invisible molecules charged with the life impulse of a delicate flower or herb, it often influences the heart and mind in a deep and penetrating way. It can awaken memories of precious moments in the life journey or can unlock doors of perception, which give one a glimpse of a sublime life that is filled with wonder and hope. For thousands of years those intrigued by the mysteries of aroma, have sought ways and means of capturing those essences so that the powerful emotions and feelings evoked by fragrance in its natural state can be recreated even in the midst of the routine of everyday life. Most have found that one of the best ways to capture that scent is through the use of absolutes in a daily aromatherapy regimen.

Today many of us living in the crowded conditions of cities and towns are seeking for means of reconnecting to a natural world. In many cases essences derived from botanical resources help us establish a rainbow bridge into times, places and environments that speak to us of a rich inner life that is based upon a refined outlook on existence rather than the frantic accumulation of material goods. It may be that these sublime aromas speak to us of the of the wisdom and knowledge to be gained from "listening" to the trees, shrubs, vines, and flowers that have been our friends and companions for thousands of years. But no matter how we wish to explain the impact these aromas have on us, we can certainly say that it "exists", and that with a little interest on our part we can directly participate in exploring this world by entering into the domain of natural perfumery, or some other branch of the aromatic arts, crafts or sciences.

A significant amount of information has appeared in recent years with regards to the world of absolutes in aromatherapy. In this discipline there is a strong emphasis on the therapeutic value of essential oils and hydrosols. More and more research has been devoted to exploring the scientific basis of the benefit of this therapy. There is also a growing body of knowledge based on practical experiences of those engaged in this work. It reveals the important role the human interaction plays in the healing process. Often times those engaged in this work have a true sympathy and understanding of the people that come to them and take the time to help their patients develop a new attitude towards themselves and life. The oils aside from their specific therapeutic uses, also help to create an open atmosphere where positive communication can take place. One of the special attributes of natural aromatic essences is that they help a person relax and feel comfortable in unfamiliar environments.

The world of aromatic plants provides the raw material for distilling/extracting a wide range of sublime essences in the form of absolutes, essential oils, attars, CO2 extracts and hyrosols. One of the most interesting ways to use plant essences, though, is absolutes. In most cases, absolutes are the most concentrated form of an essential oil. Where most plant essences are made through steam distillation, absolutes are made with the use of chemical expression, concentrating them further than most people could ever imagine. This process usually begins when the plant material is soaked in hexane. After that occurs, it goes through a double distillation process at a low temperature.

The resulting product is diluted with alcohol and filtered. For some plant essences, this is the only way to use the essential oil properly. For example, this is the only way that plants like jasmine and honeysuckle can be extracted. Absolutes are typically only used in the fragrance industry, but there are many ways that you can introduce them into your daily aromatherapy regimen. It is essential to note, though, that absolutes, unlike some other forms of plant essences, can contain materials that may provoke allergic reactions in some people. Using absolutes in your next aromatherapy experience may provide the enhancement you've been searching for.

Methods That Can Be Done With Items Already in Your Household

Simple Tissue Diffusion
• Place 3-4 drops of essential oil on a tissue. Place the tissue near you. As movement occurs in the room (i.e. as you move or as someone walks by), you will notice the aroma.
• Advantages:
This method can be used anywhere and is quickly transportable.
• Disadvantages:
This method does not emit much aroma into a room.

Steam Diffusion
• Boil 2 cups of water. Pour the water into a bowl and add up to 10 drops of oil to the water. Use fewer drops if you are using an oil that may cause irritation to your mucous membranes (i.e. cinnamon, eucalyptus, rosemary, pine, thyme, cajuput, etc.). Use of energizing or relaxing oils can make this method useful any time of day or night. The steam will heat the oils and cause them to evaporate quickly into the room.
• Advantages: This method will quickly diffuse the oils into a room.
• Disadvantages: The aroma is not exceptionally long-lasting. Additionally, the heat may alter or destroy certain constituents of the oils and thus the therapeutic benefit may not be as optimal as using cold-air diffusion methods.

Candle Diffusion
• Light a candle and allow it to burn for about 5 minutes. Extinguish the candle, place 1 drop of essential oil in the melted wax (not on the wick!) and then relight the candle. Essential oils are highly flammable, so great care must be used.
• Advantages: This method can be used most anywhere that a candle may be used.
• Disadvantages: Essential oils are flammable, so great care must be used. The aroma is not long-lasting. The heat may alter or destroy certain constituents of the oils and thus the therapeutic benefit may not be as optimal as using cold-air diffusion methods.

What's diffuser

Diffusion is the process of dispersing essential oils so that their aroma fills a room or an area with the natural fragrance. From the simple to the elaborate, many different methods exist for diffusing oils into a room. Three easy methods exist which can be done with things you probably already have in your household. In addition, there are numerous diffusers and diffusing devices available for purchase from aromatherapy vendors. This article will detail the different types of devices and methods that may be used. For blends that you can try once you have your diffuser, be sure to visit the Diffuser Page.

Aromatherapy Diffuser

Aromatherapy Diffusers - For Scent Everywhere

An aromatherapy diffuser is an item that disperses essential oils into the air. Aromatherapy diffusers may be electric or they even plug into the car. Some diffusers are small ceramic rings that sit on top of a light bulb. The aromatherapy oil is dropped onto the ring and the heat of the bulb warms the diffusing ring, and the scent fills the room. Fan diffusers are powered by batteries or electricity and the breeze blowing over the aromatherapy oils from the fan wafts scent through the air. Nebulizers are special diffusers that break down the essential oils into separate molecules. This makes the aroma oil easier to breathe into the lungs. Another popular diffuser is a clay pot. The clay is porous and the oils soak through the surface allowing the scent to fill the room. Stones come in the shapes of angels or other form so they decorate a desk. Necklace diffusers disperse the aromatherapy oil around you whenever you wear it.

The car diffusers waft your favorite aromatherapy scent throughout the car. We spend so much time commuting that it makes sense to use calming essential oils in the car too. These diffusers plug into the cigarette lighter. Consider using a bag of aroma potpourri hanging in the car too. It doesn't last as long as dispersing the aromatherapy oils, but it's quite nice.

F.A.Q

Questions are common in the world of aromatherapy. There are long winded aroma terms and Latin names of plants and different brands of aromatherapy oils. Some of the most frequently asked questions surround health issues and safety. How do you use these essential oils and are they safe for kids, pets, and pregnant women? How do I know a product is good or not? How do I blend the essential oils together? How do I make a bath salts? I hope to answer the most common question and provide some insight into the world of aromatherapy.

Are aromatherapy oils safe to use during pregnancy? Essential oils are therapeutic and beneficial, however, during pregnancy there are certain oils you want to avoid. Avoid anise, basil, black pepper, cedarwood, cinnamon, citronella, clary sage, clove, cypress, fennel, ginger, jasmine, juniper, lemon, nutmet, peppermint, rosemary, sage, thyme. This is not a totally comprehensive list. Always check with a certified aromatherapist before using oils.

How do I use aromatherapy oils for skin care? Essential oils are very concentrated. Never use them directly on the skin. Blend them in carrier oils like walnut or sweet almond oil. You only need a few drops. Put the oils in an unscented shower gel, lotion or Epsom salts. See favorite aromatherapy blends

Which essential oils are anti-inflammatory? Bergamot, chamomile, geranium, ginger, lemon, neroli, patchouli, peppermint, sandalwood, tea tree, vetiver, ylang ylang and frankincense.

Which aromatherapy oils are pain relieving analgesics? bergamot, black pepper, chamomile, cinnamon, eucalyptus, geranium, ginger, jasmine, juniper, lavender, peppermint, rosemary, tea tree, vetiver and lemongrass.

Which aromatherapy oils are anti-fungal? black pepper, cedarwood, eucalyptus, juniper, marjoram, neroli, patchouli, peppermint, rosemary, sandalwood, tea tree, vetiver, lemongrass.

How do I store the aromatherapy oils at home? Keep them in a cool dark place. Keep them away from a heat or light source. They should be in tightly sealed dark glass bottles.

Can I use aromatherapy oils if I have a cold or sinus infection? YES. Boil water in a pan and add 4-5 drops of either eucalyptus, tea tree, or peppermint oils. Carefully place your head under a towel and inhale the the steam through your nose.

How do I know if I am buying the best quality essential oils? It is difficult for you to tell on your own. Find a reputable brand and ask at the health food store. I can personally speak to the quality of Aveda products as using pure unadulterated essential oils.

What are essential oils? Aromatherapy oils are volatile plant essences. They are produced mostly by steam distillation or extraction. They are highly concentrated and must be diluted with another product such as a carrier oil. They work on the limbic system of the brain and effect the nervous system.

What is a safe dilution ratio? For a healthy adult use 6 drops in a 2 oz. carrier oil or lotion. Use 24 drops in 8 oz. For children and the elderly, the dilution should be much less.

What aromatherapy oils are calming? Neroli is a sweet fragrance and very relaxing. Sandalwood, petitgrain and vetiver are also relaxing.

Lavender is popular, how can I use it? Lavender aids with sleep and is also good for burns. Use it in mixed with water in a spray bottle and spritz your pillow at night, or blend with a carrier lotion or oil for a burn.

How do I use diffusers? Use straight drops of aromatherapy oils out of the bottle onto the aromatherapy diffuser. Do not dilute them.

Is there an essential oil good to stop mice from coming into the house? Believe it or not, peppermint oil is good at stopping mice. Put a few drops around the house where you think they are coming in and see what happens.

Which essential oil is good for nausea? Ginger is the most classic oil for reliving nausea and motion sickness. Inhale it through a handkerchief, but don't let it contact the skin or irritate the eyes.

What oils should I avoid if I have high blood pressure? Avoid rosemary, sage and thyme. Preferred oils are chamomile, marjoram and ylang ylang.

Has aromatherapy been scientifically proven? Yes. There are many studies relating to the properties of essential oils and how they are relaxing or stimulating to the nervous system and brain. Essential oils have been used in Europe for a longer period of time than in America. However, using aromatherapy oils is becoming an accepted practice in complementary medicine.

What do you mean by 'neat'? Essential oils are neat if they are undiluted, straight out of the bottle.

Aromatherapy Benefits

The first thing I think of when discussing aromatherapy benefits is the lovely fragrance each essential oil emits. I prefer some aromatherapy oils to others, but each has their own aromatherapy benefit to healing and promoting a sense of well-being. Aromatherapy is one of the most popular remedies in the world of alternative medicine. It’s not hard to imagine why.

Aromatherapy is a creative and artistic world of scent. It isn’t often that science and technology combine with fragrance and intuition creating a balanced harmonic product. The creativity is expressed in knowing the scientific properties of each aromatherapy oil. Aromas and oils are made up of thousands of chemicals intermingled into a fragrant elixir of magic. The affects on the human body and spirit are wonderful and enlightening and can change how you feel.

What benefit does aromatherapy have for calming a stressed out individual? Essential oils open up the olfactory nerve receptors in our nostrils. The aroma goes directly to the limbic system where memories, pleasures and emotions are stored. The limbic system releases chemicals that affect the central nervous system. Every time you inhale a particular aromatherapy oil, a pleasurable emotional balancing dance occurs. Balance has great therapeutic effects on a stressful mind. Use aromatherapy everywhere in the home or business. Sprayed and diffused aromatherapy scents in an office increases production. Aromatherapy candles release scent that can be aphrodisiac, calming and relaxing. Scent and aroma diffusers disperse aromatherapy oils throughout a room for immediate enjoyment.

Aromatherapy is also good for the body, because they are quickly absorbed through the skin. These oils intermingle with the body’s natural oils for a chemical fusing of perfection. Some of the chemical properties of aromatherapy oils include cleansing, lymphatic draining, toning, deodorizing, and balancing. Have you had an aromatic massage lately? It is fabulous when the scent is one you have asked for yourself. Better yet, find a spa that allows you to blend your own customized massage oil or aromatic lotion. Gift spa gifts to your friends and let them enjoy fragrance too. Aromatherapy is fantastic for facial steams and footbaths. Since the essential oils are so concentrated, be sure to dilute them per instructions. See favorite aromatherapy blends. Carrier oils or water is the perfect medium combined with your favorite pure essence.

The last benefit is for the soul and spirit. When aromatherapy and essential oils are diffused in a room, there is a mystery and magic happening. Wafts and waves of pure decadent fragrance are like no other scent. You know natural essential oils are different form the man-made synthetic smells on the market. The pure nature of plants and flowers speak volumes when they dance around your senses. These highly concentrated drops of liquid gold rise take our spirit to the heavens and affect us on every level of our being. Create a truly unique experience in your life. Use aromatherapy oils in your life everyday and reap the benefits they so richly provide

Aromatherapy - Top tips for buying essential oils

Aromatherapy - Top tips for buying essential oils
by Duncan Bain

Essential oils are highly concentrate liquids that are extracted from various plants. They contain aromatic compounds and are used therapeutically for aromatherapy applications such as inhalation, massage and bath. They can be taken from different parts of the plants including leaves, stem, seeds, flowers, bark, roots and fruit. They also require special handling and storage.

These tips will provide you with information on buying and storing your essential oils.

Buying Your Essential Oils

* Always buy from a reputable source. Some unscrupulous vendors will cut or dilute essential oils compromising their integrity and effectiveness. You should only use pure, natural essential oils for health and wellness purposes.
* Do not purchase essential oils that are stored in clear or plastic containers, or bottles with rubber stops or seals. Essential oils degrade materials like plastic and rubber and light will damage them.
* Do not confuse fragrance oils, perfume oils and synthetic oils with essential oils. There is not substitute, especially when you are using them for health and wellness purposes. Additionally, some synthetic oils can cause adverse reactions in some people.
* Watch for synthetic essential oils. Oils such as strawberry, cucumber, rain, carnation and lilac are always synthetic. If they are in the vendor's stock it may be an indication that the rest of the inventory is synthetic as well.
* Make sure that your essential oils pass the purity test. Place a drop of essential oil on a piece of paper. Ideally, it will evaporate quickly, leaving no oily mark behind. If there is an oily mark left, it is an indication that the oil has been cut with vegetable oil.
* Give your essential oils the sniff test. Take a good whiff. Pure essential oils will give out a full, round scent that is rather strong. A little bit will go a long way. Diluted versions are not as strong.

Storing Your Essential Oils

* Store essential oils in a cool, dark, dry place, away from heat, light and moisture. They should be sold in dark glass containers and should be stored in them as well. Light, heat and moisture will degrade the oils altering their effectiveness. Bottles should be closed tightly when they are not in use and do not touch the inside of the lid or the reducer top when you use the oils. Your own oils from your skin can affect the essential oils and cause them to lose their effectiveness.
* Oils that are old should not be used for health and wellness purposes. Pay attention to the shelf life of essential oils. Some oils will break down and change over time which can be a few months for some oils and years for others. Some old oils, however, can still be used for fragrance purposes like in potpourri.
* Some oils such as Citrus varieties are prone to oxidisation, so you should store them in a cool place, preferably refrigerated if you have the space. However, you must make sure the refrigerator settings are not set too low, temperatures around five or ten degrees celsius are fine.
* If you store your carrier oils in this way during the summer it is worthwhile taking them out of the fridge twelve hours before you need to use them, so it gives them a reasonable amount of time to adjust to room temperature. You may find some carrier oils have small fatty particles forming, but a simple shake of the bottle will help them dissolve again as the oils warms up.
* Having space in your fridge for your essential oils may be a luxury for many of us, so a good alternative is to invest in a storage box. It does not need to be anything fancy, just a dedicated box that helps keep all of your oils together and away from ambient temperature changes.

Essential Oil Recipes for Health

Cold and Flu Fighter
• 4 drops Sweet Eucalyptus unrectified is best
• 4 drops Scotch Pine
• 3 drops Lemon
Add to a large bowl of steaming water. Covering your head lean over the bowl and inhale deeply for 2-5 minutes. May also be added to a diffuser or vaporizer. For Children Use Eucalyptus Smithi, a mild Eucalyptus for children and the elderly.

Essential Oils for Cold and Flu
Here are the some of the best choices in anti viral oils.
Ravansara, Eucalyptus Radiata and Tea Tree
They help fight viral infections and support the immune system. Mix 10 drops in 1 Tablespoon carrier oil and massage upper chest and back. or Place 3 drops on a tissue and inhale, pause and inhale again.

Essential Oils for Congestion
Eucalyptus Globulous, Eucalyptus Radiata,Rosemary, Lavender Spike and Tea Tree.
They loosen congestion, help fight viral and bacterial infections while lifting the spirits. Mix 10 drops in 1 Tablespoon carrier oil and massage upper chest and back. or Place 3 drops on a tissue and inhale, pause and inhale again.
Cold and Flu Fighter
• 4 drops Sweet Eucalyptus unrectified is best
• 4 drops Scotch Pine
• 3 drops Lemon
Add to a large bowl of steaming water. Covering your head lean over the bowl and inhale deeply for 2-5 minutes. May also be added to a diffuser or vaporizer. For Children Use Eucalyptus Smithi, a mild Eucalyptus for children and the elderly.

Essential Oils for Headache
Peppermint, Lavender, Roman Chamomile
Put 1 drop of essential oil on each temple and at the nape of the neck. or mix 5 drops of Lavender and 1 drop of Peppermint into 1 Tablespoon carrier oil or lotion and massage neck and shoulders.

Aromatherapy Essential Oil Recipes

Eucalyptus oil
An effective analgesic and often used to relieve muscle, nerve and joint pain. Apply a massage oil to the affected area before a warm bath,then massage the area again after your bath. I like a blend of Lavender and Eucalyptus for even better results. When massaging small areas like a shoulder you can double the amount of essential oils used. ex. 20-30 drops per 1 oz. carrier oil

Relaxation
This blend is for relaxation and stress relief. It will induce a deep relaxation of the tissues, muscles and joints, and re-establish a good energy balance.
Blend the following essential oils into one ounce of carrier oil of your choice; Massage as desired. May also be used as a bath oil.
3 drops Lavender 3 drops Tangerine 3 drops Marjoram 1 drop Chamomile

Blend to Control Pet Odor
Try this natural and aromatic spray. Pour the essential oils into a 1-oz spray bottle filled with water. Shake very vigorously several times before each use. Spray directly onto your dog, holding the bottle about 10 inches from him. Avoid spraying on the head and eyes.
• 10 drops Lavender
• 10 drops Geranium
• 6 drops Lemon
From Aromatherapy for Animals, Part 1: Healing Blends for Dogs by Françoise Rapp

Bath Mush
• 1/4 cup aloe gel (the pure kind from the health food store)
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1/4 cup sea or rock salt
• 1/4 cup heavy cream or powdered milk
• 2 t. jojoba oil (optional)
• 5 drops essential oil
Sounds like a gooey mess, doesn't it? But it works wonders on your skin. It leaves the skin feeling soft and smooth. This is a blend made right before the bath. I guess it could be stored in the refrigerator for abut a week, but that sounds a little yucky to me. All measurements are approximate since I usually just "eyeball" it. You have to stir it well when you pour it into the bath water to make it disperse, but it's worth it.

Rosemary Mist
Brace yourself This sense-stimulating mist is a superb post-shower, after you've toweled off but skin is still a bit damp. In spray bottle place 5 ounces distilled water, 1 tsp olive oil, 6 drops rosemary essential oil and 1 sprig fresh rosemary. Shake well to mix -- spritz on as desired.

a great Holiday Bath Salt recipe.
Ingredients include:
• 2 C epsom salts
• 1/2 C sea salt
• 4-6 drops peppermint oil,
• 2-3 drops red food coloring
• Place 1 C of epsom salt and 1/4 C sea salt in a bowl.
• Add 2-3 drops peppermint oil.
• Place the remaining ingredients in a second bowl.
• Mix all ingredients well.
• Layer the red and white salts in a clear bottle or jar.
• I placed the lid on the jar and then put a paper doily over the lid, tied a red ribbon and a candy cane around the lid/doily. With the red and white layering, it makes an attractive presentation. Since peppermint is an energizing scent perhaps it's a good one to use at this busy time of year.

Fragrant Bath Fizzies
• 1 cup baking soda
• 1 /2 cup cornstarch
• 1 /2 cup citric acid
• 15 drops essential oil
• food color, 10 drops (optional)
Mix all ingredients in a bowl. Add food coloring to a small amount of the mix in a separate bowl. Add colored mix to remaining mix and blend. Mist the salts with a mister enough so that they hold together but not enough to start fizzing. Pack these salts into a soap mold. Flip over onto a piece of waxed paper and allow molded fizzie to dry overnight.

Fizzy Bath Kisses
• Cocoa Butter--2 oz
• Baking Soda--2 oz
• Citric Acid--2 oz
• Oatmeal, powdered--3 Tbsp
• Food Color--10 drops (optional)
• Bergamot--10 drops
• Rose--5 drops
• Ylang-Ylang--10 drops
Melt cocoa butter (microwave is fine). Add food color and essential oils. Mix well. Add baking soda, citric acid and powdered oatmeal. Stir thoroughly. Pour into molds. Put into freezer to set. (This takes about 10-20 mins.) Remove from molds when set.
Note: Use 1-2 per bath or 3-4 for extra moisturizing.
Vaginal Dryness from the book Aromatherapy Pocketbook by Kendra Grace
Mix 2 parts Jojoba Oil with 1 part melted Cocoa Butter to make 1 ounce. Add, 3 drops Sandalwood and 1 drop Geranium. Stir while warm to an even mix. Allow to cool to solidify. Smooth the mixture with fingers over the tissue two times a day and before intercourse. You may use 1 drop of Neroli in place of Geranium. Completely Safe.

Aromatherapy Body Powder especially for the feet
• Mix 1 Cup Cornstarch, 1 Tablespoon Baking Soda in a jar with a tight fitting lid.
• Add 15-20 drops of your favorite essential oils.
• Shake well

Buttermilk Bath Salts
1 cup Buttermilk Powder 1 cup Sea Salt Add up to 24 drops of essential oils. Blend well, keep in a sealed jar. Use 1/2 cup per bath. This makes enough for 4 baths.

Ginger Body Scrub
Use this one in the morning as the essential oils are invigorating.
• Sea Salt 1/4 Cup
• Cornmeal 1/4 Cup
• Olive Oil 1/3 Cup or another base oil.
• Ginger 2 drops
• Peppermint 4 drops
• Rosemary 3 drops
Mix salt and cornmeal. Combine warmed oil and essential oils then mix with dry ingredients. Use in the shower or standing in the tub. Apply in circular motions, working from the extremities inward, working towards the center of the body and the heart. Rinse with warm water. Gently pat dry. Your skin will feel smoother and have a nice glow.

Spritzers
These are easy to make just follow the guidelines below.
• Use 4 oz. of distilled water
• To make a facial mist use 8-10 drops of essential oils per 4 oz. of distilled water.
• 30-40 drops per 4 oz. for a body spray
• 80-100 drops per 4 oz. for a room spray

Rose Otto
The intoxicating aroma of Rose-Otto oil makes it an effective aphrodisiac. Rose-Otto oil exerts its effects on both mind and body. It acts to both relieve stress and relax the spirit. For a relaxing bath, mix three drops of Turkish Rose-Otto in three and a half Tbsp. of heavy cream and add to the bathwater. For a truly sensuous scent, add a few drops of Sandalwood or Jasmine.

Scented Beeswax Heart
Scent a room with this decorative accent. Use a cookie cutter to cut a heart shape from a sheet of natural beeswax. Wrap the heart in cheesecloth and infuse it with a few drops of Rose Otto. Place the wrapped heart in a plastic bag for a week. Remove and discard the cloth and glue a ribbon hanger to the back of the heart. You can even decorate it with dried flowers and a bow. Hang it in the kitchen or even the bath!!

Peach Smoothie
With fresh Peaches on sale this is a yummy treat!
• 3 ripe peaches
• 1 cup plain yogurt
• 2 T honey
• 4 ice cubes
• 1-2 drops Mandarin essential oil
• Mix in blender and Enjoy!

Relaxing Lavender Honey Bath
Did you know that Honey has a calming effect? Combined with pure essential oil of Lavender it's a yummy bath treatment. Why not try it tonight!
• 2oz. of Honey
• 5 drops Lavender
• Combine in a jar.
• use 1 -2 Tablespoons per bath.

Vanilla Rose Bath Fizz
Blend one half cup baking soda and one fourth cup each cornstarch and citric acid in a glass bow. Add one teaspoon each melted cocoa butter and Vanilla essential oil and one half teaspoon Rose Otto oil. Mix well. Slowly blend in one teaspoon rose water. Pack mixture into molds, turn out on waxed paper to dry for 24 hours, then store in airtight container. Add one fizz to a warm bath and Enjoy!

Ice Candles
Melt one pound of paraffin in a double boiler. Cut a milk carton to height desired, center a taper candle inside, then fill with crushed ice. Add six drops Spearmint essential oil and a sprinkling of glitter to the cooling paraffin.....pour the paraffin into the carton. Let cool, then pour off the water and tear away the carton to reveal a candle that glistens like ice

Lemon Citrus Soak
Lemons have been used for hand and nail care for centuries. Lemon Juice and the essential oil of Lemon whitens nails while stimulating healthy growth. Try this Refreshing Citrus Soak
• 8 oz. spring water
• 1 Tablespoon Aloe Vera Gel
• 10 drops Lemon eo
• Mix and soak fingertips for 10 minutes.

Fireplace Oils
When making Holiday logs use 1 drop of essential oil per log and only one log per fire. After applying the essential oil to the log be sure to let it sit for enough time that the essential oil soaks through the log. Some choices are Sandalwood, Frankincense, Myrrh, Cypress, and Cedarwood.

Tub and Shower Scrub
This recipe helps to remove and prevent mold and mildew buildup.
• 1/2 Cup Baking Soda
• 10 drops Tea Tree essential oil
• 10 drops Lavender essential oil
• 10 drops Geranium essential oil
• Combine all ingredients and using a damp sponge or cloth, scrub bathtub and/or shower.
For serious mildew buildup areas, combine 20 drops of Tea Tree and water in a spray bottle,
and spray area everyday for 5 days, then 2x a week.

From the book The Naturally Scented Home by Julia Bird
~add a few drops of cedar or rosemary oil to cotton balls and enclose them in a pillowcase, which can then be laid among your clothes. This will help keep unwanted pests from enjoying your clothes. (page 55)
~perfumed drawer lining paper: Choose any kind of paper, cut it to size and roll the sheets together. Then seal the roll in a plastic bag with a sheet of blotting paper on which you have dropped your essential oil combinations. Leave it for about a week to allow the scent to permeate the papers. These can also be customized with anti-insect oils. (pg 55)

Cornmeal Face Scrub

Essential Oils can be incorporated into many facial products.A facial scrub to try includes:
• • 1/4 cup yogurt
• 1/4 cup cornmeal
• 5 drops Lavender essential oil
• 5 drops Patchouli essential oil
• 5 drops Grapefruit essential oil
• Mix together and refrigerate a couple of
• hours before using. Store in the refrigerator.

A CHRISTMAS POTPOURRI - VICTORIA MAGAZINE
• 3 c Fresh juniper sprigs -with berries
• 2 c Red rosebuds
• 1 c Bay leaves
• 1/4 c Cinnamon chips
• 2 tb Cloves
• 10 Drops rose oil
• 3 Drops pine oil
• 6 Drops cinnamon oil
• 1 tb Orrisroot chips
• 5 Whole dried rose blossoms
• 3 Three-inch cinnamon sticks
• 20 Assorted pinecones, -painted gold
Combine the juniper, rosebuds, bay leaves, cinnamon chips, cloves, and cones in a big ceramic bowl. In a separate dish, mix the oils with the orrisroot. Stir this mixture into the first one and put into a closed container to mellow for a few weeks, stirring occasionally. Place the potpourri in a dish and scatter the roses blossoms and cinnamon sticks on top.
Victoria/December
Aromatherapy Essential Oil Recipes by www.aromathyme.com