Saturday, February 28, 2009

Oils, Hot Bath , Aromatherapy Candles – Guaranteed to Get You in the Mood for Bed

Essential oils work on the central nervous system. When they’re inhaled they effect the mood centers of your brain and when they’re massaged onto your skin, hey enter your bloodstream and cell tissues and are carried to every part of your body. They react with body chemistry in a way that’s similar to drugs but slower and with fewer side effects. A lot of research has shown how oils can have significant effect on our brain activity, alertness and moods. The right oils can relax the mind and body, control stress and relieve pain as well beat insomnia and particularly when combined with massage.

But for a quick and easy way to prepare your body for sleep, you can’t beat an aromatherapy bath just putting calming essential oils into a worm bath about 40 minutes before you go to bed. A fall in temperature is one of the triggers for sleep so you’ll feel all warm and relaxed after 40 minutes later you’ll be already to shut down. You bath should be warm enough to relax aching muscles and ease tension, but not too hot as this will make the oil evaporate more quickly.

The Oils Every Insomnia Should Own

Opt for oils than have a relaxing rather than invigorating aroma. Always dilute essential oils in carrier oil such as sweet almond or grapeseed with the exception of tea tree and lavender as they’ll burn your skin if applied neat. The ideal strength id five to six drop of essential oil to one tablespoon of carrier oil. Always do a patch test before massaging into your skin

  • Geranium – This oil strengthens the adrenal glands which work overtime when you’re stressed. Combine with rosemary for maximum impact. For the best effect, add a few drops to your bath or listen to some music and put some drops in an oil burner.

  • Lavender – It’s the oil most often used for sleep problems as it helps reduce stress, anxiety and depression. Sprinkle a couple of drops on a tissue and inhale or, after a long, hard day put a few drops on your pillow to aid sleep.

  • Frankincense – This oil is greater a aphrodisiac if you want to get in the mood for sex. Have a bath together and add a few drops with sandalwood and hint of jasmine to liven up your libido.

  • Ylang ylang – This is also an aphrodisiac, but a sedative too so if the sex doesn’t relax you the calming properties of this oil will. Add a couple of drops in a vaporizes for a soothing aroma.
  • Chamomile – This calms the central nervous system and induces sleep. It’s also a gentle antidepressant and stress reliever. Add a few drops of the oil to your bath.

As you sink into a warm candlelit aromatherapy bath all the stresses of the day become a distant memory. Essential oils have the power to change the way you feel physically and emotionally even some hospitals now use lavender oil to promote sleep.

Insomnia can be affected by many of factors like stress, depression, sickness, drug, and some bad lifestyle. One of the root cause is the partner who sleep beside you was the reason that make you insomnia. For info please visit this article Insomnia Cure Blog ,& Natural Insomnia Cure.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/sleep-articles/oils-hot-bath-aromatherapy-candles-guaranteed-to-get-you-in-the-mood-for-bed-635043.html

Wednesday, February 25, 2009

Mooding Winter With Aroma Therapy

Autumn is a very beautiful time of year. Leaves turn from summer's active splashy greens to the soft tones of brownish orange, mellow yellows and charismatic reds. As beautiful as the months of fall are, they also bring reminders for us to be prepare for winter's whether chills. As the months grow colder people spend more time inside, and shift their focus on improving indoor atmospheres. There are a number of ways to winterize your home. One wonderfully fun and effective method of improving your atmosphere is with essential oils.

Aroma therapy has been used for thousands of years for stress reduction and as a medicinal method of healing. Even as a stress reliever, aromatherapy is a healing agent as less stress allows the immune system to function better. In fact, the workings of aroma therapy is know to stimulate ether or the circulatory, nerve, and the immune system. As an atmosphere enhancer, essential oils are a wise choice.

There is one particular fragrance I think is perfect for weathering winter woes. Lavender has many wonderful ways to keep you feeling great during the cold season. The wonderful lavender plant can bring forth it's medicinal uses through aromatic oils, herbal tea, and as a internally digestive healing agent. Lavender is known for it's use as an sleeping aid, pain reliever, digestive cure, skin treatment, hair growth stimulant, mood stabilizer and anti-depressant.

My prediction is that heavy lavender aroma therapy during the chilly months will have you feeling renewed and rejuvenated along with the other floral scented blossoms of spring.

Lavender in my opinion is amongst the best of fragrances for aromatherapy. However there are also many other undeniably great scents, such as Bergamot, Lemon Balm, Jasmine, Peppermint and many others, with wonderful atmosphere healing powers of equal magnitude. The important thing to be aware of, as you experiment with aromatherapy, is to do the research on what medicinal purpose each aroma will have an effect on and always know the recommended usage and dosage.

Using aroma therapy scents to enhance air quality is one of the most known ways to use essential oils. . The following are brief description of some of the useful way to utilize the power of essential oils.

Seven Aroma Motions

1. As a full body bath : A nice hot bath using a healing fragrance rejuvenates and enhances overall well-being.

2. The mini-bath: Special bath technique using hot bath and separate cold bath with alternating timing for circulatory system treatment.

3. The inhalant: With a few drops of essential oil in a humidifier or pot of boiled water medicinal properties can be quickly inhaled through direct deep breaths or slowly inhaled as full area aroma therapy.

4. Compresses: Oil on a cloth dampened with hot, warm, or cold water. This can be placed directly on skin or an infected area needing treatment or conditioning.

5. A liniment: Simply rub in oil for aches and pains, or like the compress it can be directly applied to the area needing attention.

6. Used as a mouthwash or spray: A simple mist spraying for throat irritation or for oral hygiene purposes.

7. Applied as a salve: Mixing oil with another substance like bees wax to create a solid applicable mass for long term applications.

Using aromas throughout the chilly months of the more closed in home-lifestyled living may prove to be a wise warm welcomed way to whether beyond the winter woes.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/alternative-medicine-articles/mooding-winter-with-aroma-therapy-267671.html

Sunday, February 22, 2009

Top 3 Essential Oils With Healing Properties

Essential oils due to their mystical healing properties are used extensively in treating health problems. This article discusses three commonly used essential oils that are helpful in treating number of ailments.

1. Chamomile

The chamomile family is large and there are several different chamomile essential oils. All chamomile oils are helpful for sensitive conditions and can be used safely for children.

Chamomile essential oil is helpful for:

1. Aches and pains: Blend with carrier oil and massage into the affected area or add to the bathwater.

2. Boils: Apply a small cotton compress which has been soaked in hot water and chamomile and leave on until it cools.

3. Conjunctivitis, sore eyes: Add two drops to 2 tsp (10 ml) of cooled, boiled water. Soak cotton pads in the solution and place on the eyes, or use in an eyebath to wash the eyes.

4. Dermatitis, eczema: Blend with a carrier oil and massage into the affected area or blend with a perfume free cream and apply regularly.

5. Hyperactivity: Particularly in children. Add a few drops to the bathwater, or use in a vaporizer.

6. Minor skin infections: Apply on a cotton compress.

7. Insomnia: Try a chamomile aromatherapy bath before bedtime. Drink chamomile tea before going to bed. Use the oil in a vaporizer or sprinkle a few drops on your pillow.

2. Eucalyptus

The eucalyptus oil is extracted from the leaves by steam distillation. It has a smell you will recognize as it is often used in commercial rubs and inhalants for chest complaints and colds.

Eucalyptus essential oil is helpful for:

1. Colds, sinus problems, sore throat: Steam inhalation or use in an oil burner or vaporizer. Helps keep viruses at bay from other people in the home.

2. Flu: Mix into a carrier oil and massage well into the chest, shoulders and rib-cage.

3. Muscular aches and pain: Very helpful after sport or any strenuous exercise, either in the bath or in a carrier oil to massage affected areas.

3. Lavender

Lavender essential oil is obtained by distillation. Lavender oils blend well with other essential oils and can boost their properties. It is the most versatile oil for aromatherapy, so if in doubt, choose lavender.

Lavender essential oil is helpful for:

1. Acne and spotty skin: Blend in carrier oil for massage, or add a few drops to distilled water to make a freshener.

2. Boils: Use neat on a small compress.

3. Burns: Use neat, being careful not to break the skin.

4. Colds and flu: Inhale, add to the bath, use in a vaporizer or use in carrier oil to massage the head, neck and shoulders.

5. Headache/migraine: Inhale, or blend into a carrier oil and massage the face and scalp. Pay particular attention to the temples and forehead.

6. Irritability, tension and depression: Use for massage, especially the shoulders and neck, add to the bath water or inhale.

7. Indigestion, nausea: Blend in carrier oil and gently massage the stomach, or inhale.

8. Insect bites, stings: Dab on a few drops of neat oil.
9. Muscular aches and pains: Use to massage the affected area in carrier oil, or add to the bath.

10. Period pain: Blend in carrier oil and massage the lower abdomen and back. Also use in the bath.

11. Sore throat: Use in carrier oil to massage the chest and throat and/or inhale neat.

12. Sunburn: Mix a few drops into your after sun lotion or carrier oil.

Disclaimer: This article is not meant to provide health advice and is for general information only. Always seek the insights of a qualified health professional before embarking on any health program.

Know natural Home remedies for common diseases. Also read the benefits of anti-aging herb Shilajit and stress relieving herb Ashwagandha.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/alternative-medicine-articles/top-3-essential-oils-with-healing-properties-556160.html

Saturday, February 21, 2009

Two Essential Oils In Every Household

There are two very indispensable essential oils in aromatherapy that should ideally be present in almost every household - Lavender and Tea Tree. These oils have innumerable uses and can be used with any kind of dilution.

Lavender - This oil calms, soothes the skin, balances oil production, helps to heal blemishes, stimulates circulation to skin, reduces inflammation of acne and soothes nervous system.

Tea Tree - Has antibacterial, antifungal, antiseptic and antiviral properties. Heals blemishes without any side effects such as dryness, itching, stinging, burning or redness. Restores energy depleted by everyday stress, reduce or alleviate mental fatigue and exhaustion. Irritating to highly sensitive skin.

Everyday uses of these two essential oils -

- Add few drops of lavender essential oil in your hot bath to calm and soothe the skin.

- A drop or two of lavender oil massaged on pressure points below ears relieves tension.

- Apply few drops of lavender oil diluted with any base oil to damp skin for best absorption.

- Dab a drop of tea tree oil, 2 or 3 times a day at the first sign of a blemish or cold sores.

- Few drops of lavender essential oil mixed with a tbsp of honey makes a lovely facial mask.

- Dilute few drops of lavender oil with olive oil and massage into damp clean skin.

- Few drops of tea tree oil in a cup of water makes a good antibacterial mouth rinse.

- A drop of tea tree oil around the gum line may help prevent or reverse gum problem.

- Baby shampoo mixed with few drops of tea tree and lavender oil makes a nice wipe solution

- Few drops of tea tree and lavender essential oils with olive oil can be apply to the diaper area.

- To massage the baby, mix few drops of lavender oil in a base of sweet almond or olive oil.

- For healthy fingernails and toenails, massage a drop of tea tree oil on the nail bed and drop under the nail too.

- Lavender oil will stop the itching and soothe insect & mosquitoes bits, stings.

- Apply few drops of diluted tea tree oil to small scratches, scraps and minor skin irritations.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/health-articles/two-essential-oils-in-every-household-16286.html

Thursday, February 19, 2009

The Meaning of Lavender Roses - Enchanting Grace and Irresistible Charm

The purple rose is an expression of enchantment and love at first sight. Many lovers continually expression their true intentions of love with lavender roses. The purple rose is a great way to intertwine your emotions of love with a beautiful and striking flower. The undeniable appeal of a bouquet of purple roses can make an unforgettable gift! The whimsical, spring time feel of lavender roses can make anyone feel like a kid again. The purple rose also can have meanings of majesty and royalty. Since purple is a color of splendor and glory, it is no wonder that the purple rose has also gained this meaning.

The purple rose is a flower that has been developed to express new emotions in flowers. The many different significances of the lavender rose makes it a popular rose among flower lovers. A purple rose bouquet is a gift of admiration, meaning that the giver is overcome of feelings of love and romance for the recipient. Purple roses also pay tribute to characteristics such as royalty and honor. It it the only rose that carries this meaning. Blue roses have also been connected to the purple rose and it's symbolism. Since blue roses do not occur naturally, it's closest relative, the purple rose, has been subject to meanings of the blue rose as well - mysterious and unattainable. The impossibility and wonder of a purple rose bouquet will enchant anyone you send them too!

Besides the red rose, expressing our deepest feelings of love and sensuality is undeniably best represented by purple roses. If you want to express feelings of enthrallment, especially at first sight, than giving the unique and extraordinary lavender rose will definitely tell them how you feel. Valentine's day or anniversaries are great holidays to send a purple rose bouquet to your loved ones. With their many alternate meanings, the lavender rose is a great gift for almost any occasion, no matter what messages you wish to send. That special someone won't be able to resist the sweet and thoughtful gift of a dozen purple roses.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/gifts-articles/the-meaning-of-lavender-roses-enchanting-grace-and-irresistible-charm-742580.html

Monday, February 16, 2009

Lavender and Its Healing Answers

Since time immemorial, people have been using lavender. Lavender is actually a shrub and its branches grow up to sixty centimeters. Widely alluded to as a natural cure for various ailments and used in herbal medicines, the lavender's name is derived from the Latin word "lavarre" which means, "to wash". It is also indigenous to the mountain zones of the Mediterranean and thrives in stony environment where there is lots of sunlight. In Europe, this herb may be found aplenty in the wild throughout the southern part. The lavender's narrow, grayish green leaves are covered in a silver blanket-like substance and its leaves are usually oblong and attach directly at the base in spiral-like patterns.

The lavender has a reputation of being a useful wound herb and as an effective expectorant. In European folk medicine, it is known for the former. The most common types of healing lavenders include L. angustifolia and L. spica. While the most commonly used variety is the French lavender, L. stoechas. Even the lavender's flowers have also been found useful and can be used to create an array of herbal medicines.

Known to contain tannins, volative oils, coumarins, triterpernoids and flavonoids, the lavender's flowers are usually described as cooling and mainly dry and are well regarded for its ability to promote good bile flow. Moreover, they are also well known as a relaxant, antispasmodic, circulatory stimulant, and antiseptic, a tonic for the nervous system, an analgesic and a carminative. Because it supposedly causes calmness, soothe and anti-convulsive effects, the lavender herb may also be used to treat insomnia, abdominal complaints, rheumatism, anxiety, depression, loss of appetite, and mood disturbances.

Lavender is also popular for its essential oils. These oils are especially popular aromatic essential oils and a lot of aromatherapy aficionados use these. In fact, the mere act of inhaling lavender induces healing! Recommended by herbalists, lavender essential oil can be used to treat a large array of illnesses and ailments and thus is highly suggested as an integral addition to any household first aid kit.

Lavender essential oil can be used to make healing creams. Simply put a few drops of the said oil to a cream that is chamomile-based. The produced cream can be used to treat skin problems like eczema. A few drops of the lavender essential oil mixed with a few drops of water, when mixed, can be used to remedy scalds, burns, and sunburn. This is a handy must-have for beach lovers or people who want to bask in the sun.

The lavender essential oil can also be used as chest rub. All you have to do is add a millimeter of the said oil to 5 drops of chamomile oil, mix them, and rub onto the chest. Lavender essential oil is known to cure bronchitis spasms and even symptoms of asthma.

The lavender essential oil can also be used for massages. The oil can help ease the pain from the muscles and when rubbing it on to the temples and nape of the neck, tension from headache and migraine can also be avoided.

Yet another use for the lavender is hair rinse. When you dilute 5-10 drops of lavender essential oil in water, one can treat hair lice and nit problems.

Despite these favorable uses for lavender, however, people especially pregnant women should still be cautious as high doses of lavender in any form have been shown to be a strong uterine stimulant.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/non-fiction-articles/lavender-and-its-healing-answers-147935.html

Thursday, February 12, 2009

Practical Aromatherapy: Using Essential Oils With Children

Busy parents are always on the lookout for natural, effective alternatives to support their children's health and happiness. Invoking gentle calm in an otherwise hectic family life is especially appreciated. Essential oils can offer this support in a fun, safe and natural way. A few essential oils are particularly suitable for use with young ones, both for bringing soothing emotional calm and contentment healing the small wounds of childhood - here's a quick primer to help you safely and effectively use five valuable essential oils with children.

There are several easy methods to utilize natural essential oils with children. These include topical application via caring touch massage; direct application to wounds; inhalation from cloth (like clothing or a pillowcase); room sprays and diffusers; and the all-purpose aromatherapy bath. The key difference in using essential oils with children, compared to adults, is that children will need smaller amounts of oil for the same effect. There are a few oils that shouldn't be used with children; peppermint, most eucalyptus varieties, and red thyme, for example, are considered too strong. If in doubt about any oil consult a knowledgeable practitioner or reputable text.

Also, the younger the child, the more dilute the concentration of essential oils should be in a formula, bath, or inhalation application. Massage formulas, for example, can contain approximately 1 drop essential oil per ounce of carrier oil for each year of age - this is flexible depending on the oil and the situation, within a range of 3 drops for each year (i.e. For children one and under, up to 4 drops can be used with gentle oils such as Vanilla, Lavender and Chamomile - use only 1 or two drops with newborns). The child's weight can also be considered; if a child is larger for their age, a little more essential oil can be used. If using a diffuser, only enough oil so that the scent can be detected is necessary - nebulizing diffusers may output too high a concentration of oils for children; warming or humidifying diffusers are more appropriate. The oils we'll look at here are all quite safe and can be used as often as feels appropriate; Tea Tree, though, should be reserved just for its potent antiseptic applications.

And now for the oils! We'll start with soothing the very little ones; comforting an infant can seem a full-time job for many parents, where support is always welcome. For this, there's one indispensable tool: pure Vanilla essential oil. Mmmm! Who doesn't like vanilla? Infants really respond to its calming, sweet scent. And it's so easy to use. A belly, back or foot rub with a blend containing 1/2 percent vanilla in any quality carrier oil (jojoba, hazelnut or other seed or nut oil of your choice) works magic for many parents. To make a 1/2 percent Vanilla blend, purchase a small amount of pure Vanilla essential oil and add 4 drops into each ounce of carrier. Use as frequently as you like, as vanilla is completely non-toxic. You can even add a few drops to your favorite cookie recipe for an exquisite flavor, far surpassing that of the commonly found vanilla extracts.

Next up is Chamomile. There are several varieties of Chamomile, with an array of uses. German Chamomile is an exceptional oil for skin inflammation and rashes, applied in a 1/2 to 1 percent dilution in Hazelnut oil. Roman Chamomile is premier oil calming little ones over two years of age. The oil may be used in a number of ways; aromatherapy massage, in a diffuser or room spray (with this and other oils, dilute 10 drops per cup of water in a clean spray bottle - shake well and lightly mist the air), a drop or two sprinkled on bedding, or in a bath. According to Dr. Kurt Schnaubelt in Advanced Aromatherapy, "Even in very small concentrations, whether alone or in combinations with other oils (Roman Chamomile) has a soothing effect...it is appropriate to massage a few undiluted drops into the solar plexus." It is noted as particularly suited to calming tantrums or bringing calm after nightmares.

Lavender essential oil is also highly regarded for its soothing qualities, along with a host of other healing actions. Lavender oil has been called 'a medicine chest in a bottle', as it is anti-inflammatory (good for small burns - apply directly as needed), relieves pain and supports wound healing. Clinical studies have proven Lavender oil's effectiveness for improving sleep. For children, blend 2 to 1 with Roman Chamomile. Apply one drop of this blend to the pillow at nap or night time. Lavender works well in a bath, too. Additionally, Lavender can be mixed in equal parts with Tea Tree oil to add a soothing quality to Tea Tree's antiseptic action. Really, every parent should have a bottle of Lavender on hand.

When sour moods are in need of a lift, citrus oils supply the aromas of choice. Tangerine and Sweet Orange are especially liked, and Mandarin has a certain calming effect not found in any other oil. Citrus oils are often cold-pressed from the peels of the fruit; these can be mildly irritating to the skin. Stick to using these in room sprays or diffusers. Steam distilled citrus oils, often made from the leaves or flowers of the citrus trees (like Neroli, Petitgrain, or Mandarin Petitgrain - an especially nice oil for young ones) can safely be used in topical applications like massages and baths. All these oils are known as antidepressants, and might just lift your mood as well as your child's (not to terrible of a side effect!)

And for all those little abrasions of childhood, Tea Tree is highly regarded as a natural antiseptic for cuts and scrapes. Once a wound is washed, it may be covered with a Band-Aid which has a drop of Tea Tree placed on the gauze. Tea Tree may be a bit strong to apply directly to the injury, though when mixed with equal parts of Lavender, Tea Tree will prevent infection while the Lavender will relieve pain and actually speed wound healing. A few drops of the Tea Tree/Lavender mixture can be added to a warm cup of water to use as a cleansing wash. An effective, home made antiseptic spray can also be made: use 2 ounces water, 1/2 half ounce rubbing alcohol, 8 drops Lavender, 12 drops Tea Tree and 8 drops Roman Chamomile. Shake vigorously and store, shaking again before each use. Tea Tree is considered a 'universal antiseptic', with a great many uses in first aid and around the home. At 20 drops per cup of water, it can be used as a non-toxic (if not pungent!) general cleaner which you'll be happy to use instead of many chemical laden household cleaners where your children will be crawling about - and you can mix with lemon oil for a more pleasing aroma.

This is just a quick overview on caring for children with essential oils. Once you get started, you're likely to find these and other oils are a safe, effective means to naturally support your child's health and happiness. As your knowledge and experience grows, you'll find there are aromatherapy remedies for many common childhood ailments. In much of the rest of the world, essential oils are considered potent medicines, deserving a place in everyone's medicine chest. There are many great books on aromatherapy, with loads of information and recipes to get you started. Just remember, when using essential oils with children start slowly, and with small amounts; their response to certain oils and concentrations will likely tell you about the oil's effectiveness. When used with care and respect, essential oils can become a much appreciated part of your natural health and wellness lifestyle.

About The Author:
More on the practical uses of essential oils is available at www.anandaapothecary.com and www.anandaapothecary.com/essential-oils.html.

Tuesday, February 10, 2009

Useful Tips and Home Remedies with Lavender Essential Oil

Perhaps you're just venturing into natural health for you and your family -- you know it's the right thing to do, but there are SO many varieties of medicines, herbs, tinctures and supplements that getting started is a little daunting. Have you given Lavender essential oil a try yet? Of the huge array of natural health products available online and at your local market, Lavender is a truly dependable choice. It has a broad range of effects, and can replace a number of not-so-natural items in your medicine chest and around your home. So if you're making the effort for natural health and happiness, here's a few tips on using this wonderful medicinal aromatic.

Lavender's key actions are calming and regenerating; it imparts these on our physical body as well as our psyche, leading to a variety of useful applications. The synergy of these actions is important, as both our physical bodies and our spirits need stress relief before healing can occur. Bumps and bruises need the swelling to go down, scrapes or burns need the inflammation to clear, and our psyche has to let go of tension for us to live happy and healthy lives. Lavender's sweet aroma brings calm to nearly everyone -- it's anxiety-relieving effects have been proven in several university studies, and this is perhaps the easiest medicinal action to utilize. Lavender is exceptionally safe; it can be worn as a perfume, sprinkled about our space, or used in an aromatherapy diffuser for this effect. And only the smallest amounts are needed; just a hint of the aroma will bring about the flower's calming properties.

Another favorite stress reduction technique is the Lavender bath: just add 20-30 drops of Lavender to an already drawn bath for a soak. If one needs to unwind before they make it home from work, small diffusers are available that plug into the cigarette lighter of a car. A few drops placed on the pad can really go a long way to relieving the tensions of the day while still in the evening commute!

Associated with its calming effect is Lavender's ability to improve sleep. One headline proclaimed 'Lavender Beats Valium' in sleep studies. If you or your children have trouble falling asleep or staying asleep, Lavender can be a profoundly effective home remedy. For a really simple method, sprinkle just a drop or two (really just a little as too much can actually be a stimulant for some folks) on the bed sheet, on-top-of, or under the pillow before bed. It's especially nice to fall asleep to a hint of Lavender, and catch another whiff if one wakes again in the middle of the night. For some, it works well to utilize a diffuser set to run on low all night long, or one on a timer that cycles on for a minute or two every hour. Think about how the scent is relaxing your whole body; using lavender regularly this way may continually improve the aroma's effectiveness as a sleep aid over time.

Lavender essential oil is a surprisingly effective wound healer. We sometimes think a product needs to be more medicinal smelling, or sting at least a little bit to work, but it was actually Lavender that began the modern 'medicinal' aromatherapy revolution. Dr. Rena Maurice Gattafosse, a French scientist, burned his hand in a laboratory accident; he thrust it immediately into the closest vat of liquid, which happened to be filled with Lavender essential oil. He recovered from his injury so quickly that he was inspired to write the first book on the medical use of essential oils, coining the term 'Aromatherapy' as the title.

As you can guess, Lavender works exceptionally well on burns. It can be used neat, undiluted, on any burn where the skin is unbroken; it will bring quick pain relief and speed healing. Lavender is considered anti-septic, anti-inflammatory and regenerative, so virtually all cuts, bruises and scrapes will also respond well. You can use in combination with Helichrysum for burns and bruises (Helichrysum is a powerful anti-inflammatory/regenerative/pain reliever as well), or with Tea Tree for a stronger, yet still soothing anti-bacterial formula (a 50/50 mix of Lavender and Tea Tree can replace any sort of topical anti-bacterial formula used under band-aids and small dressings). Lavender can work well on a sunburn, at a 10% dilution in water dabbed over the area. A drop of lavender on a bug bite or sting is also highly effective, and is useful for many itchy and irritated skin conditions as well.

Lavender's antiseptic properties make it an excellent natural household disinfectant. Sprinkle baking soda and Lavender in place of chlorine-based cleansers and scrub away! Add a little lemon essential oil too for greater potency, and a very uplifting scent. Lavender and Lemon can be added to a bucket of water (use about 30 drops of each) for larger surfaces and floors.

Finding a therapeutic-grade Lavender oil is most important for stress relief. The finest Lavender's are grown in mountain regions of Europe and particularly France. The 'Lavendula angustifolia' species grown in these certain climates produces an essential oil with high levels of linalool, a chemical constituent of Lavender oil known for it's calm-inducing effects. Other Lavenders will also be excellent for burns, scrapes and bug bites, though the it is the most pleasingly fragrant ones that will put you and your children in the best of moods and deepest of sleeps. Sample a few -- your nose won't let you down, and the right Lavender for you will certainly bring a smile to your face.

About the Author

The author is a consultant for Ananda Aromatherapy, found at http://www.anandaapothecary.com. More resources are available on fine aromatherapy essential oils through the website.

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Monday, February 9, 2009

How You Too Can Use The Proven Anti-Anxiety Actions of Aromatherapy

The most pervasive concept of aromatherapy in North America is that of nice smells making you feel good - a strong whiff out of a little bottle and you're carried away to your personal 'happy place'. Not a bad idea, but this concept carries the burden of 'New Age' stereotypes with it. Aromatherapy is but a simple folk remedy that works only because the yoga-posing, mantra-chanting, tantric-sex practicing user thinks it does. Well, we've got news for the 'Establishment': Science has validated aromatherapy! Perhaps most profoundly, science has shown that smelling essential oils has true anti-anxiety effects; there's actual data showing essential oils will actually help you relax. Now all you natural health and wellness practitioners can tell your doubting, possibly smirking friends - this stuff is for real.

The number of studies investigating the therapeutic actions of essential oils has exploded over the last ten years, as popular interest grows in the areas of natural health and wellness. The efficacy of may 'folk' remedies is being validated, with many of them having benefits at least as potent as their pharmaceutical counterparts, and most having very limited, if any, side effects. This is especially true with the use of essential oils for reducing stress and lessening anxiety. And what's wonderful about the oils is that their readily available and easy to use. A mother with active children can just plug in a diffuser and let it do its thing. A stressed-out commuter can do the same. Feeling a little wound up, but want to keep the aroma a little more personal? Apply a few drops of diluted oil to yourself or loved one wherever you like. What oils have these anti-anxiety effects? Let's have a look...

Lavender has been the most frequently studied of all the essential oils. Its anti-anxiety (or simply 'relaxing') action has been documented both in the laboratory (using stressed-out mice and rats) and in clinical environments with actual human beings. Many, many studies have reported the same thing: inhalation of lavender oil brings calm under a great variety of conditions. At least one study compared Lavender oil aroma to that of Juniper, Cypress, Geranium, Jasmine and Frankincense. It was only the Frankincense that had a somewhat similar effect, but not nearly as effective as Lavender. Several studies compared Lavender's effect to diazepam (Valium) with Lavender's aroma having similar (but likely more healthy) calming results. In other studies, Lavender has been shown to improve sleep, decrease conflict between animals, and reduce the amount of pain medication needed by recovering hospital patients.

Sandalwood oil is another well-known stress reducer. For those that may not enjoy the floral aroma of Lavender, Sandalwood could be the oil of choice. Its warm, earthy scent is grounding and centering, being used by some spiritual traditions to enhance relaxed, focused meditative states. The science shows similar results - Sandalwood oil topically applied relaxed the body while stimulating psyche. Studies on sleep/wake cycles using Sandalwood oil topically improved the quality of sleep and lessened waking episodes. A small study using Sandalwood suggested the oil may be helpful in reducing anxiety for palliative care patients. Beyond the scope of Western scientific inquiry, Sandalwood oils and pastes have been used for centuries in Ayurvedic medicine for the treatment of psychological disorders, utilizing its sublime mental-health promoting actions.

While Sandalwood and Lavender have the most data to back them up, many other essential oils have had positive test results. Rose is a standout; it has also been tested alongside Valium (apparently the anti-anxiety gold standard) with better and longer-lasting results. The rose aroma's effect seem to increase over time, where as benzodiazepines' effect will tend to decrease - and the test subjects appeared less confused or sedated. Rose, like Lavender, reduced conflict between test subjects as well. For a little variety, you can mix Rose and Sandalwood together (try a 1:4 ratio)...this is a classic Indian aromatic blend combining two of the world's best known anti-anxiety scents.

Other oils found in research databases include Angelica, Chamomile, Lemon, Lemongrass, Tagetes and Ylang Ylang. Some oils tested didn't show repeatable results in the laboratory environment, but if you find and oil aroma that you find relaxing, it's more than likely not purely 'in your head'; the olfactory (smell) sense is the one of the five senses most directly wired to the brain's emotional centers. These are, in turn, directly wired to the autonomic nervous system controlling functions such as heart rate, breathing rate, and blood pressure - all of which are closely tied to one's level of stress.

So what to do with these stress relieving wonders? They're really easy to use - one of the great features of aromatherapy. Both topical application and inhalation show repeatable results in laboratory tests. A common method of topical application is to dilute the essential oil in a carrier oil like Jojoba down to 10% or less. Essential oils tend to pass easily into the bloodstream when applied to the skin, so nearly any technique will do. A few drops of your mixture can be placed on the wrists and rubbed together (this is nice, as you'll smell the aroma as well). For inhalation, there's a great many aromatherapy diffusers available, from little, inexpensive plug in units, to professional models which make a cloud of pure, intense aroma. For anxiety relief, any model where you can smell the aroma will do the job - the higher end diffusers tend to bathe a larger area in your aroma of choice.

How to chose an oil for you, your family or friends? Aromatherapy choices tends to be some personal. Some folks go mad for Rose Geranium, and other folks can only think of 'grandma' (in a nice way!) with the bright scents of florals. These same individuals will often love the grounding aromas of the woods: Sandalwood, Frankincense, Spruce, etc. The beauty of the scientific data is that it's not one type of essential oil that's effective to support health and wellness naturally - it's the santalol in Sandalwood, the linalool in Lavender, and the citronellol in Rose that imparts much of the therapeutic effect. Other oils have different chemical constituents that also bring about relaxation. Even the most scientifically aligned practitioners will tell you: if it feels good, use it. Try a variety of aromas if you're new, and use your favorite with confidence - relaxed confidence, of course - knowing you're using some of the best medicine nature has to offer, with the science to back it up.

About The Author:
Aromatherapy essential oils and therapeutic essential oil blends have been in use for decades, with a broad acceptance of their true healing powers found in Europe. Essential oils have a great diversity of therapeutic healing actions - to learn more, find a professional therapist trained in aromatherapy, or begin with one of the many aromatherapy texts available for practitioners.

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Wednesday, February 4, 2009

The Refief Experienced From Lavender Aromatherapy

There may be a scientific reason why your favorite body lotions, soaps and candles have such a dramatic effect on your mood. Those pleasing scents that make you want to give out a sigh or make you feel energized is aromatherapy in action.

Different scents affect people differently. Some may be relaxed by the soothing scent of lavender, whereas another person is energized by the smell. Relieving stress and helping the body is a full time job for the immune system so why not give it a boost with a delectable bouquet that makes you happy?

The use of aromatherapy has had a long and glorious history with mankind. The actual word was not coined until the 1920's by a French chemist, but there have always been essential oils used for a variety of purposes.

We now see these oils being used in body lotions, soaps, candles and even when indulging in a spa massage. The goal of the masseuse is to find a scent that achieves its purpose. Take, for example, a therapist using lavender to soothe and calm someone who is under a lot of stress.

Our sense of smell drives us and influences our behavior. Think about a freshly baked pumpkin pie. Now, if that image was reinforced by the smell of a pumpkin pie, then it will probably make you hungry for a slice.

Our sense of smell plays a huge part in everything we do. Aromatherapy is about using pleasing scents to change your behavior and mood. If you think about it, then consider your reaction to a foul smell.

Scientists and the medical profession are now embracing the fact that an aromatherapist can work wonders on a person's psychological well-being. If the body is relaxed and free of tension, then the mind will follow. Perhaps these discoveries will help influence mental health professionals when dealing with individuals who are Bipolar or suffer from depression.

Aromatherapy is here to stay. Each time we breathe in and smell something that changes our mood or changes the body's response to certain stimuli, we are embracing the concept. Considering how long the practice has been used and how long mankind has responded to these scents, it is fairly certain that there will be continued use for a variety of treatments. Perhaps one day medical science will be able to reproduce those calming effects that lavender and vanilla have on the human body.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/health-articles/the-refief-experienced-from-lavender-aromatherapy-368123.html

Monday, February 2, 2009

Which Aromatherapy Product To Use

There are so many different aromatherapy options it can be difficult to decide which aromatherapy product to use. Here are some ideas for you to try.

For the Bath:

Close the doors and windows and then run a nice hot bath to the temperature you are most comfortable with. When the tub is full add 20 drops of essential oil to your tub mixing it up which will cause the scent to rise from the steamy water. Now choose the right aromatherapy product for the job:

To relax and calm – 2 drops lavender, 2 drops bergamot, and 2 drops cedarwood.

To reduce nervousness – 6 drops geranium, 4 drops lavender, 4 drops basil.

To eliminate insomnia – 4 drops chamomile, 4 drops lavender, 3 drops neroli, 2 drops marjoram.

To energize – 3 drops rosemary, 3 drops lemon.

For The Feet

After a day on your feet you come home with tired and sore feet that are so worn out you’re sure you can’t take another step. So which aromatherapy product do you use this time? Start by filling a container that’s large enough for both of your feed with warm water then add your essential oils and sit back and relax.

Try one of these

Add 3 drops peppermint and 2 drops frankincense

Add 3 drops peppermint and 3 drops lavender

Add 3 drops Rosemary and 3 drops lemon

Massage

There are several essential oils that are great for massage. You’ll just need to choose the aromatherapy product you like best. Massage with essential oils will increase the healing power while also creating a calming effect or energizing effect.

For massage use essential oils diluted in a carrier oil which will give you your aromatherapy product. Almond Oil, Grape seed Oil, Olive Oil, and Sunflower Oil are all good carrier oils. Store your oil in a dark bottle. You can use a funnel to pour the oil in. For every 1 oz of carrier oil add 20 drops of essential oil and then shake well. Use your choice of oils.
Lavender is great for relaxation as well as for the nerves, chamomile is excellent for insomnia, and neroli is the right choice for relaxation. In fact all of the mixes used in the bath make a good choice for a massage aromatherapy product too.

There are so many different choices. You can mix essential oils however you want. You may have favorite oils that you like to use a lot and you may also have oils you prefer not to find in the aromatherapy product you choose.

You can also purchase your favorite aromatherapy product already made rather than making up your own. There are many great sites online that offer a full line of products for the bath, massage, home, or just about anywhere else you can use an aromatherapy product.

The hardest part about buying online is deciding what aromatherapy product you want. If I were you I’d put in a nice size order and fill up your cabinet with all the products you love. Then you’ll have choices to fit the mood and the moment.

Get all the latest information about Aromatherapy from the only true source at

http://www.myaromatherapyinfo.com

Be sure to check out our aromatherapy product pages.