The Many Wonders of Lavender Essential Oil

Lavender Essential Oil is created through a process of distillation of several species of lavender. There are two types of the oil, Lavender Flower Oil, which is clear oil and impenetrable in water, and Lavender Spike Oil that is concentrated from the Lavandula Latifolia aromatic plant.

Lavender oil is usually added to perfume products. It can also be used for aromatherapy to help soothe and aide relaxation. The fragrance of the oil is known to decrease stress. It may also be used in meditation sessions. Its components calm the mind and body, and encourage a feeling of stillness.

Lavender oil also helps in relieving tension and headaches when inhaled in the form of steam or applied to the skin. You can adjoin this with a vaporizer to care for a cough and respiratory illness. It can also serve as mosquito repellent when applied as a cologne or when included in lotions and hair products.

Supporters of alternative treatments say that lavender oil may provide first aid treatment for an array of ordinary illnesses. The thinned or pure oil solution can act as an antiseptic and pain killer when administered to minor burns and insect stings. Use only a small amount when applying it straight to the affected area. The best way to apply this is with the use of wet cotton wool padding to the affected region.

For curing sunburn and sunstroke, 10 drops of oil can be diffused in 25ml of base oil. Lavender oil when incorporated with chamomile is a treatment of eczema. To prepare a massage oil to soothe joint and muscle pain, 1ml of lavender oil should be incorporated to 1oz. of base oil and apply generously on the affected area.

To treat asthma or bronchitis, combine 1ml of lavender oil, 5 drops of chamomile oil and 10ml of base oil then apply this to the chest as a rub. If you want to use this as cure for head lice, use 5-10 drops of lavender oil and dilute it in water and lather it on the hair, you can use a few drops of pure lavender oil and apply it on a fine comb to remove nits.

Oral dosage is not to be administered to children. It can be used as topical solution to treat skin illnesses and injuries like minor cuts and chafes. It should not be applied on open wounds. For adults, lavender can be used in combination with herb tea. This can be used as vapor treatment for headache, depression and insomnia.

Herb medicines are used for strengthening the body and curing diseases. Herbs consist of active substances that can activate side effects and has a negative response to other medications and supplements. You must seek first the advice of health professionals before taking any herbal medicine. However, occurrence of side effects is uncommon but some build up allergies with lavender.

Tag : lavender essential oil,lavender,lavender oil,lavender roesearomatherapy

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Lavender The Universal Oil

The smell of lavender has to be one of the most exquisite sensations your mind, body and soul can experience. Close your eyes and let the sweet, earthy, slightly herbaceuos, floral scent calm your frazzled nerves and relax your mind. Folklore has given this tall, fragrant flower many names and properties. Elf’s Leaf, Nard, Nardus, and Spike, all have been said to carry powers of love, protection, sleep chastity, longevity, purification, happiness and peace. Lavender was carried to see ghosts and worn to protect against the "evil eye". Sachets were made and filled with the dried flowers to attract love. Its has even been given masculine qualities and an association with the planet Mercury and its element is air.

This spiky flower was imported by the ancient Greeks from Syria for its fragrance. Today commercial perfume houses still use lavender essential oil as the base ingredients in many of their perfume blends. This herb is grown commercially in England, France, Bulgaria and Croatia among many other parts of the world. Depending on where lavender is grown and at which altitude, gives this herb its different healing properties. The Botanical name Lavandula comes from the Latin word "lavare" which means "to wash". Lavender essential oils are also used in combination with massages to relax and relieve stress from the body. Given the name "Universal Oil" this herb stands up to its many claims.

This aromatic essential oil should be in every household medicine cabinet or first aid kit. Lavender is known to work wonders on minor scrapes and burns, itchy insect bites and is used to prevent scarring. In 1910 Dr. Rene-Maurice Gattefosse, one of the founders of the science of aroma therapy, found this out accidently after burning his hands in a laboratory explosion. Thinking he was submerging the burned hand in a pot of water when in fact it was lavender essential oil. He later noticed that the hand healed faster and with less scarring. Lavender essential oil is one of the only essential oils that is safe to use undiluted directly on your skin and is baby safe as well.

Here is an easy salve recipe to make using the dried flowers of lavender and lavender essential oil. This salve may be used to help treat dry cuticles, hangnails, minor burns and scrapes. This does not replace any medical assistance as with any injury you may need to seek the advise of your medical doctor. This salve puts no claims on healing and is meant only to assist.

What you will need; Paper towels, 1 cup olive oil, ½ once lavender herb (dried flowers), ½ ounce lavender essential oil, ½ ounce beeswax, ½ teaspoon vitamin E (400 unit capsule) and cheesecloth to strain. Makes 5 ozs.

Put lavender herb in your olive oil and bake in oven at 200 degrees for 3 hours. Allow this mixture to cool a little, while its still war, strain lavender herb (with cheesecloth) into a pan on top of the stove. Add vitamin E ( ½ teaspoon). Add beeswax and stir until melted, let cool some, add your essential oil to the mixture after it has cooled, pour into a wide mouth 5 ounce jar or into five 1 oz jars.

To learn more about essential oils visit www.neesoaps.com/earthsoaps.html

Paulette Gehrke has taken several correspondence courses in herbal preperation, reflexology and accupressure through Herbal Healer Academy, Inc. and is currently enrolled in Lakeside School of Massage Therapy. She owns and operates Natural Earth Essentials where you will find quality handcrafted aroma therapy soaps made with all natural ingredients.

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Lavender: The Universal Oil

The smell of lavender has to be one of the most exquisite sensations your mind, body and soul can experience. Folklore has given this tall, fragrant flower many names and properties. Elf’s Leaf, Nard, Nardus, and Spike, has been said to carry powers of love, protection, sleep chastity, longevity, purification, happiness and peace. Lavender was carried to see ghosts and worn to protect against the “evil eye”. Sachets were made and filled with the dried flowers to attract love. Its has even been given masculine qualities and an association with the planet Mercury and its element is air.

This spiky flower was imported by the ancient Greeks from Syria for its fragrance. Today commercial perfume houses still use lavender essential oil as the base ingredients in many of their perfume blends. This herb is grown commercially in England, France, Bulgaria and Croatia and many other parts of the world. Depending on where lavender is grown and at which altitude, gives this herb its different healing properties. The Botanical name Lavandula comes from the Latin word “lavare” which means “to wash”. Lavender essential oils are also used in combination with massages to relax and relieve stress from the body. Given the name “Universal Oil” this herb stands up to its many claims.

This aromatic essential oil should be in every household medicine cabinet or first aid kit. Lavender is known to work wonders on minor scrapes and burns, itchy insect bites and is used to prevent scarring. In 1910 Dr. Rene-Maurice Gattefosse, one of the founders of the science of aroma therapy, burned his hands by accident in his laboratory. Thinking he was submerging the burned hand in a pot of water when in fact it was lavender essential oil. He later noticed that the hand healed faster and with less scarring. Lavender essential oil is one of the only essential oils that is safe to use undiluted directly on your skin and is baby safe as well.

Here is an easy salve recipe to make using the dried flowers of lavender and lavender essential oil. This salve may be used to help treat dry cuticles, hangnails, minor burns and scrapes. This does not replace any medical assistance as with any injury you may need to seek the advise of your medical doctor. This salve puts no claims on healing and is meant only to assist.

What you will need; Paper towels, 1 cup olive oil, ½ once lavender herb (dried flowers), ½ ounce lavender essential oil, ½ ounce beeswax, ½ teaspoon vitamin E (400 unit capsule) and cheesecloth to strain.

Put lavender herb in your olive oil and bake in oven at 200 degrees for 3 hours. Allow this mixture to cool a little, while its still war, strain lavender herb (with cheesecloth) into a pan on top of the stove. Add vitamin E ( ½ teaspoon). Add beeswax and stir until melted, let cool some, add your essential oil to the mixture after it has cooled, pour into a wide mouth 5 ounce jar or into five 1 oz jars.

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Lavender - the Universal Essential Oil

Ancient Romans added lavender to their bath water to induce a calming and relaxing effect (lavender comes from the Latin word “lavare”, which means “to wash”). Over the years, this herb continued to gain popularity for treating a whole range of ailments, from muscle pain and headaches to depression and irritability, not to mention general sleep disorders. Lavender was also popular in the Victorian age – people often carried handkerchiefs perfumed with the scent to calm anxiety.

Lavender has a clean, powerful, floral, powdery, and pleasing aroma. It is pale yellow in color. It is the most versatile and adulterated of all essential oils. Therapeutic-grade lavender is calming, sedative, a muscular relaxant, anti-inflammatory, a powerful tonic for the entire system.
It is highly regarded for use in skin conditions such as acne, to soothe burns and scalds. Lavender has been clinically evaluated for its relaxing effects. It may be used to cleanse cuts, bruises and skin irritations. Inhaled, it can ease depression, nervous tension and just relax the tensions – physically and emotionally.

There have been many research studies on lavender. In a study conducted at the University of Miami’s Touch Research Institute published in the International Journal of Neuroscience, adults exposed to lavender showed increased beta power, suggesting increased relaxation. The subjects in this study performed math computations faster and with fewer errors and experienced less depression.

Lavender is balancing and is useful for a multitude of ailments. It is considered the universal oil and is good for all skin types. It helps the body regenerate new skin cells and minimizes scarring, an excellent oil for sunburns and other types of burns, useful in healing acne and eczema, good for hair and scalp. This oil is very good for headaches, especially PMS headaches, as well as sharp aches and pains. Use it to calm the nervous system, lower high blood pressure, calms palpitations, is balancing to the central nervous system.

Use lavender oil on hyperactive children and dogs to calm them. This oil clears the spirit while gently soothing it, relieving anger, exhaustion and stress, and is very useful for manic-depressives in balancing the ups and downs.

Lavender brings energy of peace to all the chakras of the body, as well as opening the heart and crown chakra. It encourages feelings of patience and security. It balances the heart chakra system.

Precautions: None, use small doses on children and dogs or cats.

1. Rub lavender oil on the bottoms of the feet for a calming effect on the body.

2. Rubbing a drop of lavender oil on the palms and smoothed on the bedtime pillow may aid sleep.

3. A drop of lavender oil on a bee sting or insect bite may soothe itching, stinging and discomfort.

4. 2-3 drops of lavender oil may soothe a minor burn.

5. Add a few drops of lavender oil to chilled water in a spray bottle and spritz the skin for a soothing, cooling, fragrant pick-me-up.

6. Mixing several drops of lavender oil with V-6™ Enhanced Vegetable Oil Complex, almond or jojoba oil and applied topically may be soothing to skin irritations.

7. Placing a drop of lavender oil on the end of the tongue, around the naval, or behind the ears may help to alleviate motion sickness symptoms.

8. A drop of lavender oil on C-5 vertebra can relieve hiccups.

9. Rubbing lavender oil that has been blended into V-6™ Enhanced Vegetable Oil Complex, jojoba or almond oil on dry or chapped skin may bring relief.

10. Rubbing lavender oil that has been blended into V-6™ Enhanced Vegetable Oil Complex, jojoba or almond oil on chapped or sunburned lips may relieve the discomfort.

11. Massaging lavender oil around the area of scar tissue may help in reducing and/or minimizing the appearance the scar.

12. Rubbing 2 – 4 drops of lavender oil on the armpit area may act as a deodorant.

13. Rubbing a drop of lavender oil between your palms and inhaling deeply may help in alleviating the discomfort of airborne pollen and/or dust.

14. Rubbing several drops of lavender oil into the scalp may help with dry scalp and flaking.

15. A few drops of lavender oil on a cotton ball placed in the linen closet will scent the linens and may help repel moths and insects.

16. A drop of lavender oil in a water fountain will scent the air and may help sanitize and prolong the time between cleanings.

17. A few drops of lavender oil on a wet cloth tossed into the dryer, can deodorize and freshen the laundry.

18. Diffusing lavender oil may support the body’s natural defenses against air borne sensitivities to the skin and immune system.

19. Spraying several drops of lavender oil mixed with distilled water on sunburn can help soothe it.

20. Dropping lavender oil on a cut may help clean the wound, sanitize and soothe it.

21. Applying 2-3 drops of lavender oil combined with vitamin E oil to a rash may help and soothe the skin.

Tamara Boswell Petrucci is a licensed esthetician, certified Reiki practitioner, reflexologist and aromatherapist. Her practice is in north Orange County, CA. Her website is http://www.TamarasSkinCare.com Tamara publishes her blog at http://www.TamarasSkinCare.blogspot.com More information on her essential oil products can be found at http://www.YoungLiving.com/TamaraSkinCare

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The Many Wonders of Lavender Essential Oil

Lavender Essential Oil is created through a process of distillation of several species of lavender. There are two types of the oil, Lavender Flower Oil, which is clear oil and impenetrable in water, and Lavender Spike Oil that is concentrated from the Lavandula Latifolia aromatic plant.

Lavender oil is usually added to perfume products. It can also be used for aromatherapy to help soothe and aide relaxation. The fragrance of the oil is known to decrease stress. It may also be used in meditation sessions. Its components calm the mind and body, and encourage a feeling of stillness.

Lavender oil also helps in relieving tension and headaches when inhaled in the form of steam or applied to the skin. You can adjoin this with a vaporizer to care for a cough and respiratory illness. It can also serve as mosquito repellent when applied as a cologne or when included in lotions and hair products.

Supporters of alternative treatments say that lavender oil may provide first aid treatment for an array of ordinary illnesses. The thinned or pure oil solution can act as an antiseptic and pain killer when administered to minor burns and insect stings. Use only a small amount when applying it straight to the affected area. The best way to apply this is with the use of wet cotton wool padding to the affected region.

For curing sunburn and sunstroke, 10 drops of oil can be diffused in 25ml of base oil. Lavender oil when incorporated with chamomile is a treatment of eczema. To prepare a massage oil to soothe joint and muscle pain, 1ml of lavender oil should be incorporated to 1oz. of base oil and apply generously on the affected area.

To treat asthma or bronchitis, combine 1ml of lavender oil, 5 drops of chamomile oil and 10ml of base oil then apply this to the chest as a rub. If you want to use this as cure for head lice, use 5-10 drops of lavender oil and dilute it in water and lather it on the hair, you can use a few drops of pure lavender oil and apply it on a fine comb to remove nits.

Oral dosage is not to be administered to children. It can be used as topical solution to treat skin illnesses and injuries like minor cuts and chafes. It should not be applied on open wounds. For adults, lavender can be used in combination with herb tea. This can be used as vapor treatment for headache, depression and insomnia.

Herb medicines are used for strengthening the body and curing diseases. Herbs consist of active substances that can activate side effects and has a negative response to other medications and supplements. You must seek first the advice of health professionals before taking any herbal medicine. However, occurrence of side effects is uncommon but some build up allergies with lavender.

The San Francisco Bath Salt Company's slogan is "Relaxing The World One Bath at a Time". The company specializes in luxury bath salts for skincare and relaxation with the overall goal of improving health through bathing. The website is a powerful resource of information about bathing and contains many more articles and the daily bathing blog. For information visit http://www.sfbsc.com or to visit the complete resource section on bathing go to http://www.sfbsc.com/resource-center

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Elizabeth_Boardman

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

Lavender Essential Oil: The Top Ten List of Healing Uses

The genus Lavandula comes from the Latin word lavare meaning "to wash," and L. angustifolia, known as true or common lavender, is the species used medicinally. Lavender essential oil is steam-distilled from fresh flowers and is mainly produced in Bulgaria and France. Be sure to use a reputable supplier when purchasing lavender essential oil as it is one of the most commonly adulterated essential oils. A genuine and authentic essential oil should always list the botanical name, the part of the plant used, the country of origin and the method of extraction. The synthetic scent of lavender from fragrance oil is not the same as a pure essential oil - there are no health benefits from synthetic fragrance oils!

When I refer to "neat" application, this means applying a drop of lavender essential oil directly on the skin. While this is generally recognized as safe, instances of sensitization have occurred. Furthermore, it is not recommended to use other essential oils in this fashion, with the exception of tea tree. When I talk about using lavender in a carrier oil, this means diluting a few drops of the essential oil in a base oil. Different oils can be used for different purposes, but with this article focusing on first aid remedies, extra virgin olive oil is a great and convenient choice. As there are approximately 600 drops in one ounce, use six to eighteen drops of pure lavender essential oil per ounce (by volume) of carrier oil for a one to three percent dilution.

Here we go, my top ten healing uses for lavender essential oil:

# 10 - Bruises

Lavender is great for bruises because it is anti-inflammatory and analgesic which aids in the healing process while decreasing pain. Using lavender in a carrier oil, gently massage into bruised area. For best results, dilute lavender in arnica-infused oil. Arnica contains sesquiterpene lactones and polysacharides that stimulate phagocytosis, thus cleaning up debris and reducing healing time. Please note that arnica should not be applied to broken skin.

# 9 - Muscle Aches and Menstrual Cramps

Massage lavender diluted in a carrier oil (arnica-infused oil for additional relief) into painful area or, my favorite, add a few drops of lavender essential oil to a warm Epsom salt bath for a deep muscle soak.

# 8 - Bug Bites and Bee Stings

Lavender's antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, and healing properties make it a great choice for bites and stings as it reduces infection, swelling, and itching. To use, simply apply one drop of lavender essential oil neat to affected area.

# 7 - Earaches

There are two effective ways to ease the pain of an earache with lavender. The first is to gently massage lavender in a carrier oil into the outer ear and back of the ear. The second method is to put a drop of lavender on a cotton ball and gently place it on the outer ear. Never put it directly in the ear canal.

# 6 - Depression

Lavender is a restorative herb and is classified as a nervine, meaning that it has a calming effect on the mind and body. It works in powerful ways to bring feelings of comfort and peace and also helps with fatigue. Suggestions include inhaling lavender essential oil directly from a vial, spritzing your room with lavender diluted in distilled water, and infusing your space with lavender from a candle or incense. The options are endless.

# 5 - Headaches

Lavender's sedative effects make it a great remedy for headaches, especially when the headaches are caused by stress. Massage a drop of lavender diluted in a carrier oil into the temples and back of the neck, followed by a few deep, relaxing breaths of lavender essential oil directly from a vial. Add peppermint essential oil to the mix for even better headache relief.

# 4 - Sanitizer

Lavender was used in hospitals during World War I to disinfect floors and walls. Use lavender essential oil in a soap to cleanse, in water and vinegar for household cleaning, or try it in a base of grain alcohol as a hand sanitizer.

# 3 - Insomnia

Lavender works particularly well if insomnia is due to a restless and anxious mind. Before bed, spray your pillow and face with lavender diluted in distilled water, take a few deep breaths, inhaling lavender directly from the vial or from a drop on a tissue, or place dried lavender buds in a sachet in your pillow case.

# 2 - Burns and Sunburns

It was the French chemist, Rene-Maurice Gattefosse, who is famously cited for treating his severe burns and resulting infection with lavender essential oil. Apply a drop of lavender essential oil neat to minor burns. For sunburns, spray your body with lavender diluted in distilled water. Please seek medical attention for severe burns.

...And my number one healing use for lavender - Stress

lavender has balancing and harmonizing effects on the autonomic nervous system. In panic attack situations, inhale lavender essential oil directly from the vial and seek medical attention if necessary. For general stress and anxiety, spritz your face and room with lavender diluted in distilled water, take a relaxing bath with a few drops of lavender diluted in sea salt, or enjoy a massage using lavender-infused oil.

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

How To Use Lavender In Your Daily Life?

Lavender essential oils and lavender blend are easy to find in local store or online market. They come in variety products such as for bath spa, massage, or for healing properties.

Lavender essential oil is one of the most commonly used in aromatherapy. It has a pleasant aroma, healing properties, and also it is easily blended with other essential oils to provide for maximum effect.

Lavender and lavender blend essential oils can be used for :

Mosquito bite, just apply lavender oil on the skin. It will stop the inflammation and skin irritation, also reduce the chances of further swelling and redness.

Soak in soothing bath can give your muscles relax. Adding lavender to a soothing bath makes an enormous difference. It will soothe your skin and mind, relax you, and invigorate your skin.

Highly recommended for the nervous system relieving depression, anxiety and insomnia. Best if you use a lavender and lavender blend essential oil into a massage. lavender massage oil relaxes the muscles and tissues.

Foot spa bath is also best if using lavender and lavender blend essential oils. You can add it to foot scrub for a cramped feet or foot lotion with a message for relaxing tired feet.

For Hair care you can add two to four drops to your hairbrush and brush your hair. Lavender it s believed to stimulate hair growth and its antibacterial properties can help eliminate scalp conditions.

You can even use the lavender as a perfume behind the ears if you are allergic to perfumes.

For all skin care due to its powers of rejuvenation and balancing effects. Helps to heal burns, sunburn, acne, boils, bruises, eczema, psoriasis and wounds and sores of all descriptions.

You can’t go wrong when using lavender and lavender blend essential oils. It is easily absorbed by the skin, and soothes the deeper layers of it. Lavender can be also used in cases when you burn your skin, as long as the wound is not open, there should be no problem. It heals the burns effectively. If you have a dry skin, Use just a little bit of the lavender to bring moisture back to the skin. Or you can blend it in lotion to keep your skin nice and moist.

Lavender essential oil can be used neat, meaning without diluting it in carrier oil, but it must be done in small amounts and only for minor skin problems. However, it is advised to dilute lavender with a vegetable carrier oil such as olive oil, jojoba, sweet almond oil, etc, just to make sure that your skin don’t have an allergic reaction.

Tag : lavender,lavender essential,lavender oil,herb oil

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Health Spa Treatments Using Lavender Herbs From Your Own Herb Garden

Health spa treatments can be costly. Have you ever considered creating your own home spa by using lavender and other herbs from your own herb garden? After all of the hours you spent planting and tending to your herb plants, reap another benefit by using your herbs to make herbal cosmetics, herbal teas or herbal medicines and by all means as ingredients for a home spa. Some people have spaghetti herb gardens, or salad gardens even headache gardens, consider this your own Spa Herb Garden!

For very soft touchable skin use Lavender or Calendula leaves and petals. Bruise the leaves and petals and put them into a glass jar. Pour enough olive oil into the jar to cover the herbs. Set the jar on a sunny window and shake everyday for two to three weeks. Strain the oil through cheese cloth pressing on the solids to remove all essential oils. Reseal the jar and place in a dark place. The herbal oil should last up to one year. This soothing Lavender oil can be applied directly to the skin or used in a bath.

Put lavender flowers and leaves into a warm bath and soak. Or put them in a muslin bag which you will hook over the running water while filling the tub. The Lavender will fill your bathroom with a wonderful scent. Since Lavender is known for its calming effect, what better way to relax after a day of gardening than a long soothing bath filled with Lavender?

Lavender is a natural anti depressant so place bowls of dried lavender around the house. Or since Lavender is known for its claming effect, boil a large pot of water, throw in the lavender, and place a towel over your head as you bend down over the pot. Inhale in the delightful smell and feel its soothing properties from the steam on your skin.

Another lovely way to use Lavender is to sew them into little bags and put them between your pillow and pillow case. The beautiful calming scent will help you sleep.

Calendulas may also be used in the bath. An even better way to use this herb is as an antiseptic. Again, bruise the leaves and flowers and add them to olive oil. It will relieve stings, chapped lips, cuts and burns.

To make you're won spa loofahs plant Luffa aegyptiaea. For a home spa tool grow the plant in full sun in a place where the plant can climb. When you harvest it, soak it in water to soften the brown skin, peel and set out in the sun to dry. Save the seeds for your next years Spa Herb Garden.

Now let's make some refreshing teas using herbs from your herbal garden for use in your mini home spa. Most people look at roses as just beautiful blooms, but rose hips have more vitamin C than oranges. The little round balls in the center of the rose is the hips. Gather them and grind them in a coffee grinder. Steep them in very hot water, not boiling, for about ten minutes and enjoy your fruity tea.

For a calming tea try Chamomile or for a refreshing tea try Lemon balm. All of these herbs can be grown in your own yard and will create a wonderful home health spa experience.

Copyright © Mary Hanna, All Rights Reserved.

This article may be distributed freely on your website and in your ezines, as long as this entire article, copyright notice, links and the resource box are unchanged.

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How to Use Aromatherapy Oils in Home Remedies?

Aromatherapy is one of the popular alternative therapies used in treating number of health problems. Aromatherapy oils are natural plant oils and because of their gentle way of healing, they can be used in many different ways. You can choose to use them in your bath, for massage or in preparing a number of home remedies. Below are few home remedies for common health problems.

Aromatherapy oils in various home remedies –

1. For cellulite – Make a blend a four drops of juniper, four drops of fennel and four drops of lemon oils in 4 fl oz (100 ml) of a carrier oil. Massage this into the cellulite affected areas daily after your bath, when the skin is warm and receptive.

2. For sunstroke – Add four drops of juniper, four drops of fennel and four drops of peppermint oil to a cool bath. Soak for 15 minutes. Then, rub a little neat lavender oil into your temples at regular intervals. The bath will help to reduce your temperature and the lavender oil helps your headache.

3. Dry or cracked lips – Make up a carrier oil of 2 fl oz (50 ml) apricot kernel oil and 2 fl oz (50 ml) of avocado oil. Add six drops of sandalwood and six drops of rose oil. Rub this to the lips, repeating the application regularly.

4. For sunburn – f the sunburned area is small, apply the lavender oil and repeat as necessary. If the area is large, add twenty drops of lavender oil to a cool bath and soak for 10-20 minutes. You can make a soothing spray by adding 10 drops of lavender oil to 1 pint (300 ml) of cool, clean water.

5. Small cuts – Apply lavender or tea tree oil to the cut. These are both antiseptic and don’t sting.

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.

About the Author

Read more about aromatherapy, ayurveda, yoga and massage therapy at Natural cures website – a health guide to make you and your family live better, fit and healthy. Also read the benefits of anti-aging herb Shilajit and stress relieving herb Ashwagandha.

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Relieve Stress Naturally With Aromatherapy Tips

Nowadays, almost everybody experience stress in his life. Stress term describes any mental, emotional or physical reaction that is abnormal. Stress is a natural part of our life. Sometimes it is beneficial because it keep us focused and persistent on our goal (work, study, etc.), but generally stress is one of the major threat of our mental and physical health. Feeling stress, especially on a daily basis and for a long period, may cause several health disorders, such as anxiousness, headaches, blood pressure, hair loss, depression, even heart attach. According to recent surveys, the 3 major causes of stress in developed world are job, family and health issues.

Many stress management strategies have been developed recently by psychologists. However, nobody can claim that every patient who may follow his treatment will totally eliminate stress from his life. In this article we will present you some of the most efficient aromatherapy tips that can help you reduce stress level and achieve emotional and physical well-being.

Throughout history, some scented plants and their aromatic water have been used for relaxing and smoothing purposes. Holy basil is a native herb of India (where it is known as tulsi), sacred plant of the Hindu civilization and used for thousands of years for healing. Scientific studies on natural properties of Holy Basil have found that it reduces body hormones named corticosterone and cortisol, which are intimately connected with stress, anxiety and mental clarity. Consequently, Holy Basil is one of the best antidepressant therapeutic grades and its essential oils are highly recommended for stress alleviation.

Other, more well-known, essential oils which can be used for soothing nervous tension and reducing stress are: Lavender essential oil, Ylang-Ylang essential oil, Chamomile essential oil and Geranium essential Oil. Lavender’s scent has calming and anti-depressant properties. Ylang-Ylang is described as euphoric essential oil that helps in uplifting mood. Chamomile essential oil can relax body and mind and can provide restful and peaceful sleep. Geranium oil, is another sedative and relaxing essential oil, that can balance adrenaline.

Before, suggesting some aromatherapy recipes for stress relief, I want to underline that dealing with essential oils might be dangerous especially for inexperienced persons. Keep in mind that essential oils are concentrated potent substances and should never be placed directly on skin. Use carrier (base) oil for dilution and after you can apply it on skin. Moreover, remember that only few essential oils can be taken internally and used during pregnancy.

Aromatherapy oils can be used in burners and diffusers. Add 5-10 drops of your favourite essential oil to water in the bowl and heat it. Sit back and relax, while the essential oil vaporises and its perfume creates a soothing atmosphere. Another way to benefit from essential oils is by inhaling them. Put few drops on a tissue or a cotton pad, put your nose near and just inhale. Keep in mind, that this is the easiest and the only one way to benefit from essential oils when you are outside your home and you want to relieve tension (at work for example).

Additionally, you can reduce stress with aromatherapy bath and massage. Add 4-6 drops of essential oil to your warm bath water and stay in it for at least 15 minutes, allowing the oil to penetrate your skin and indulge yourself with the advantageous vapours. Finally, you can add 5 drops of essential oil to every 10ml of base oil and massage your body. The ideal parts of your body for relaxing massage are around the neck, shoulders and back.

In conclusion, stress is an unavoidable piece of our modern way of living, but there are some easy to follow techniques that can enhance the body ability to cope with emotional and physical stress. The most sweet-scented is Aromatherapy.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/health-articles/relieve-stress-naturally-with-aromatherapy-tips-150016.html

Lavender Oil – How Its Works?

Lavender essential oil contains up to 40% linalyl acetate and 30% linalol. Linalol is a terpene alcohol that is non-toxic to the human organism, yet naturally germicidal. Linalyl acetate has a pleasant, sweet fruity-floral aroma. The combination of antimicrobial and sweetness is the key to lavender's effectiveness in cosmetic and aromatherapy preparations.

Lavender oil has been popular since ancient times. It has a wide variety of uses, and Nature's Sunshine procures the finest oil of the right species to bring you a host of benefits far more pleasing than inferior substitutes commonly sold today. Taking its name from the Latin lavare, meaning "to wash," lavender possesses a clean, pure aroma. And, like an adaptogen, it encourages balance for the entire nervous system.

Use Lavender essential oil in a spritzer bottle to spray on sheets and blankets at bedtime for a deeper relaxing sleep. It also repels insects.

Aromatherapy with lavender may slow the activity of the nervous system, improves sleep quality, promote relaxation, and lift mood in people suffering from sleep disorders. Blended lavender oil, when used for massage produces a relaxing, calming effect. A few drops of the oil in a hot bath will relieve anxiety and produce a pleasant drowsiness. In a cool bath the oil will refresh and energise. Lavender oil makes a superlative skin or facial oil for troubled skin conditions such as acne and gives temporary relief to the symptoms.

Dried lavender is a tool to experience the sheer aromatic properties in a relaxed ambience. To dry your lavender, strip the leaves or the just opening flowers from the stalk and spread out in a warm place, before using in pot pourris to fragrance your rooms. Around your home, dried lavender stalks can be burned like incense sticks or burned on the fire for their wonderful fragrance.

The most versatile of essential oils, lavender is relaxing, uplifts the spirits and helps relieve muscle pain. It is apt for rejuvenating tired muscles. It can also be used to treats burns, as it reduces scarring. Lavender oil helps to relax, calm nervous system, and is a good sedative. Lavender was used in earlier days as a condiment and for flavouring dishes to prevent indigestion and stomach disorders.

Lavender is just a beautiful herb in your garden. It has gray-green, pointing leaves that grow in a bushy, spreading manner. It is crowned with tall spikes of beautiful pale violet flowers during summer. As an ornamental flower, lavender is unique, sporting exotic fragrance, beauty and a rich harvest of sweet smelling blooms. Old English Lavender, a popular inhabitant of a cottage garden, can grow up to two to three feet high, producing fragrant grayish leaves and blue/purple flowers.

Lavender essential oil can help reduce anger and frustration, while improving your self esteem. Lavender is found to elicit the emotion of happiness. Lavender has a property of calming and sedating effects. You can also use lavender, by scenting a relaxing and antiseptic bath by slowly adding lavender droplets and letting the bath water run over it as it fills the bath. Fresh lavender flowers are excellent for bath too.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/health-articles/lavender-oil-how-its-works-391154.html

Focus On - Lavender

The ancient Greeks called the lavender herb nardus, after the Syrian city of Naarda. It was also commonly called nard.

During Roman times, flowers were sold for 100 denarii per pound, which was about the same as a month's wages for a farm labourer, or fifty haircuts from the local barber. Lavender was commonly used in Roman baths to scent the water, and it was thought to restore the skin. When the Roman Empire conquered southern Britain, the Romans introduced lavender.

During the height of the Plague, glove makers at Grasse would scent their leathers with lavender oil, and this was claimed to ward off the Plague. This story could have some validity as the Plague was transmitted by fleas, which lavender is known to repel.

Ruud Van Nistelrooy, a soccer player for Real Madrid, advocates the use of Lavender, and has been said to coat his boots in it prior to sleep.

In England lavender farms are springing up to meet a growing demand and on a sunny day, it could be Provence but the sight of lavender stretching out as far as the eye can see is becoming increasingly common in England. No longer the preserve of ancient aunts, lavender is now a sought-after ingredient in aromatherapy and herbal medicine, where it is used for both its antiseptic and calming properties.

Last month, a school in Hereford gave lavender-laced tissues to nervous GCSE candidates, and it is also becoming popular in cooking where it is used as a distinctive flavouring in scones, cakes and ice cream.

Lavender has become so important that there is even a spectacular celebration of lavender and herbs at The English Lavender Festival held in July each year. At this festival there isa large display of lavender and herb plants for sale together with border perennials and biennials.
Nigel Goodwill, The English Lavender Festival organiser says "Lavender is such a wonderful plant that we decided it was time to celebrate its properties with a dedicated national festival for all the family."The most common species in cultivation is the Common Lavender Lavandula angustifolia.

Lavenders are widely grown in gardens. Flower spikes are used for dried flower arrangements. The fragrant, pale purple flowers and flower buds are used in potpourris. Dried and sealed in pouches, they are placed among stored items of clothing to give a fresh fragrance and as a deterrent to moths. The plant is also grown commercially for extraction of lavender oil from the flowers. This oil is used as an antiseptic and for aromatherapy.

Lavender flowers yield abundant nectar which yields a high quality honey for beekeepers. French chefs in and around Provence have been incorporating this herb into their cuisine for many centuries. Lavender lends a floral, slightly sweet and elegant flavour to most dishes. It is the buds however that contain the essential oil of lavender, which is where both the scent and flavour of lavender are best derived.

Lavender needs little introduction to people as its scent is already hugely popular and well loved. At Regent House this traditional Lavender fragrance ranks amongst our top 5 sellers and is available in a wide range of products including simmering granules, fragrance oils, room sprays, ironing oil and fragrant stones. In the aromatherapy range Regent House has essential oil, massage oil, massage cream, rollerballs and a CD relaxation pack which aids sleep. All of the products sell excellently in garden centres and gift shops and recently Regent House has launched a floor standing display full of just Lavender products.

QUICK GUIDE TO LAVENDER USES
Lavender is known for its powerful but gentle relaxing, de-stressing, antiseptic and uplifting properties.
It is good for:
The urinary system: problems like cystitis.
The circulatory system: palpitations and high blood pressure.
The respiratory system: throat infections, influenza, bronchitis and whooping cough.
The nervous system and emotions: it calms a variety of nervous disorders including excitability, insomnia, migraine and nervous tension. As well as panic attacks, hysteria and depression. It has a steadying influence on the psyche, helping indecisiveness and emotional conflict as well as aiding in strengthening the conscious mind.
The muscular system: helps muscular and rheumatic aches and pains.
The reproductive system: useful in treating scanty menstruation and leucorrhoea.

http://www.thinkaromatherapy.co.uk Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ruth_Wagstaffe

Lavender Aromatherapy and Its Utilizations

Rene Gattefosse, French chemist, in 1928 found the therapeutic property of lavender while exploring botanical fundamental natures. He knocked over a bunsen burner, gravely burned his hand, and as soon as applied lavender oil. Gattefosse was astonished at how it alleviated the pain and cured his hand without scarring. This was the arrival of modern aromatherapy.

Lavender Essential Oil which is applied in aromatherapy is frequently distilled from the purple blooms of the plant and is taken out by a procedure utilizing water or vapor.

Essential oil of lavender is applied in aromatherapy practices to dispose of depression, oppose fatigue and get relaxation. It contains strong disinfectant properties and was even utilized on the wars to stop infection and reduce pain. A drop of lavender oil blended with a teaspoon of carrier oil, like grape seed and massaged into the temples and back of the neck will chase off headaches. Blended with any massage oil, it assists reduce the pain of arthritis or aching muscles too. Infrequently, simply a small cotton ball with droplets of lavender near your pillow could assist you drop off to a profound sleep.

Aromatherapy with lavender might decelerate the activity of the nervous system, recovers sleep quality, support relaxation, and raise mood in those experiencing from sleep disorders. Mixed lavender oil, when applied for massage creates a relaxing, soothing effect. Some drops of the oil in a hot bath will alleviate nervousness and create an enjoyable sleepiness. In a cool bath the oil will energize and strengthen. Lavender oil makes an outstanding skin or facial oil for concerned skin conditions like acne and provides short-term release to the symptoms.

Lavender and relaxation are two utterances that are practically identical with each other. Nevertheless, as said by Erich Keller in his book 'Aromatherapy Handbook for Beauty, Hair and Skin Care' he notes: "Lavender is wide-ranging oil for skin care. Its result is antibacterial, pain-relieving, curing for injuries, comforting for skin disorders, refreshing, antiseptic, fungicidal, insect-repelling, revitalizing, and anti-inflammatory".

It can be utilized to care for every types of skin and is effectual for acne and oily hair, prickly skin, hand care, fractured skin, contusions, shock injuries, acne scars, blisters, abscesses, furuncles, warts, boils, eczema, athlete's foot, wounds, and burns. A bath with lavender soothes and cures the skin after sunburn.

Survey published in the journal Chronobiology International, in a 2005, researchers stated that lavender aromatherapy assisted all 31 men and women experience more "vigor" the next morning, contrasted to the night they respired in distilled water, an application that dished up as the control setting.

Breathing in the aroma of lavender is the most well-liked method to benefit from lavender aromatherapy. The lavender could be located into potpourri around the home or even on cotton balls that can afterward be put in drawers and around the home. Diffusers and light rings are other means that lavender aromatherapy can be applied and are leading techniques to eject the beautiful attractive smell of this purple herb into the region for you to breathe in. generally speaking, lavender aromatherapy is one of the more well-liked and extensively received types of alternative health care as well.

If you want to get some excellent resources on kidney, please visit my site on Aromatherapy and You or Lavender Aromatherapy.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Michael_Ezie

Lovely Lavender

Who doesn’t adore lavender, that lovely blue eradicator of the blues, anger and insomnia? It is generally accepted that the word lavender stems from the Latin lavare, to wash, as the Romans used in the herb extensively in their baths. But in early Latin lavender was known as livendula, meaning, “to turn blue,” from the same root as our word
“livid.”

Lavender
has long been used in love potions. The primary market still today for the
essential oil is in perfumes and cosmetics. It is also used to scent love notes
and clothing, where, in your chest of drawers, it makes an effective moth
repellant. Ironically, despite its erotic associations, during the Renaissance
it was believed that lavender worn with rosemary would preserve a woman’s
chastity.

There
are about 30 species of lavender, plus countless hybrids and varieties, far too
numerous to list here. But they include both tender and hardy perennials with a
great diversity of colors – including pinks and whites – shapes and heights.

Lavender
is a mint native to the Mediterranean. Like most herbs it prefers a sunny location
in light, dry, rocky soil. It should be pruned lightly in the fall and fairly
vigorously in the spring, removing any deadwood.

Lavender
is a wonderful relaxant and antidepressant. In The Eve of Saint Agnes, John Keats wrote “And still she slept an azure sleep, /In blanched linen, smooth, and
lavender’d.” Lavender essential oil gently rubbed into the temples or the
essential oil simmering in water in an aromatherapy lamp will ease you off to
sleep and make your headache vanish, especially if it’s stress related. A
lavender eye pillow at the end of a stressful day is far more effectual and
healthful than a double martini.

Lavender is virtually de rigueur in potpourri. Here’s a recipe
for Lavender and Geranium Potpourri to
add relaxation and romance to any ambience:

4 cups of dried lavender
flowers

2 cups of dried rose geranium
leaves

2
cups of dried rosemary

1 oz. of orris root

15 – 20 drops of lavender
essential oil.

Mix all
the ingredients thoroughly and place in a sealed jar. Age at least one month.
Shake the jar frequently.

Lavender
essential oil is antifungal, antiviral and antibacterial with a low level of
toxicity, making it one of the few essential oils that can be applied directly
to the skin undiluted. Added to the bath it will alleviate muscular pain and
tension. As recent as WW1, the oil was used as an antiseptic wound dresser. As
with all essential oils, do not take
lavender oil internally unless it is strongly diluted. The dried flowers
infused as a tea will relieve indigestion, colic, gas and bloating. It is even
helpful is some cases of asthma, especially when nervousness is a factor.

Recent
research shows promise that one of lavender’s compounds, perillyl alcohol, may
be useful in combating cancer of the breast, pancreas, colon and prostate.

In the kitchen lavender blooms
are used to flavor vinegars, soups (especially cold fruit soups in the summer),
cookies, ice cream and sorbets. This markedly fragrant herb can be used in many
ways by creative chefs.

Try the following Salmon with Lavender and Fennel:

2 medium sized salmon steaks

1-½ tsp. dried, crushed
lavender flowers

1-½ tsp. crushed fennel seeds

Juice of ½ lemon

1 Tbsp. extra virgin olive oil

Pinch of salt

Mix all
the ingredients together and cover both sides of the steaks. Then marinate them
in the refrigerator for several hours. Sauté over medium to high heat in a
non-stick pan until done – about six minutes per side.

Lavender
and lamb make a surprisingly good combination. The following recipe occasions a
pleasant change from the usual rosemary and garlic accompaniment.

Lavender
Lamb with Basil

1 leg of lamb

1 cup of milk (non-dairy such as nut or coconut milk may
be substituted)

Juice of ½ lemon

8-10 lavender flower heads

8 basil leaves

Freshly ground pepper to taste

Place the lamb in a
tightly-fitting lidded casserole. Mix the remaining ingredients and pour over
the lamb. Marinate for several hours, turning the lamb occasionally. Remove
from the marinade and bake, uncovered, at 325ºF for approximately 30 minutes
per lb. When the meat is done, strain the marinade, and then make it into gravy
by pouring it into a frying pan over a medium-high heat. Reserve about a
quarter cup and thoroughly blend in 1 tsp. of arrowroot powder. When smooth,
stir into hot marinade and simmer until thick.

Bruce Burnett is an award-winning writer, a chartered herbalist and author of HerbWise: growing cooking wellbeing. Bruce and his wife Delaine own Olivia’s Fashion, Furnishings & Gifts (http://www.olivias.ca/) in Ladysmith, BC Canada. Read more published articles by Bruce Burnett on his websites: http://www.bruceburnett.ca/ and http://www.herbalcuisine.com/

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Bruce_Burnett

Herbs for Skin Care - Learn to Care your Skin

The latest craze in skin care is also the oldest: herbal products. Once considered merely the eco-friendly choice of hippies, these plant derivatives are now found everywhere. The most highly reputed manufacturers have recently added herbs to their skin care lines, from cleansers to moisturizers and everything in between. Still, those who have not tried them may be concerned about their effectiveness. After all, "must have" products come and go, from infomercial fads to weight loss gimmicks. For those who are skeptical, here are the facts about herbal skin care's benefits.

Using Herbs in Skin Care

How does what you put on your skin affect you? What herbs should be used externally and when and for what reasons? These questions are important and asked often. We will make an attempt to help sort this out and explain why we use a particular herb

After the bath, apply diluted evening primrose oil or aloe vera cream. Do not use very hot water when bathing or showering. Calendula and comfrey have skin-softening properties. They can be used in a facial sauna or to make herbal or floral waters. Used in skin preparations for its astringent and detoxifying properties. A natural diuretic which does not deplete potassium. Tea tree oil has been known to penetrate into the skin's cellular level.

Add 1 drop of oil to your favorite day or night cream to help moisturize and smooth skin. Blondes can use the tea as a hair rinse also to add shining highlights to the hair. Use in Ointments, Creams, Compresses and Toners for wounds, skin regeneration, skin infections, and inflammatory skin conditions. Used as a Compress, in Lotions and Creams for oily skin, it is supposed to be cleansing, clarifying and emollient and soothes sensitive skins with surface blood capillaries. Borage, fennel, coltsfoot or calendula tea also helps improve the skin. Add 1 tsp. of herbs to 1 cup of boiling water and drink daily. A weekly facial sauna using the herbs chamomile, lavender, and peppermint is good for dry skin. Do not drink soft drinks or eat sugar, chocolate, potato chips, or other junk foods.

Splash the skin alternately with cold and warm water. Used for Oily, spotty skin and for wrinkled, sagging complexions. (Facial Toners, Lotions, Creams); Cleanses, stimulates blood circulation, closes pores and restores elasticity. Yarrow is used for its astringent, healing and soothing effects on the skin and hair. Strengthens skin tone. Melt the lanolin in a small bowl over a pan of hot water. Add the sunflower and almond oils and beat together. Remove from the heat and continue beating as the mixture thickens then stir in the oil of lavender.

A Rich Moisturizing Night Cream For Dry Skin

This cream is soothing and fragrant. Both almond and sunflower oil have a moisturizing, softening action on the skin. Almond oil also has a reputation as a cleanser. The lavender oil is soothing.

3 tablespoons lanolin
1 tablespoon sunflower oil
1 tablespoon almond oil
1 teaspoon oil of lavender

Melt the lanolin in a small bowl over a pan of hot water. Add the sunflower and almond oils and beat together. Remove from the heat and continue beating as the mixture thickens then stir in the oil of lavender. Pour into a sterile pot and screw on the lid when the cream is cold.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/health-articles/herbs-for-skin-care-learn-to-care-your-skin-256642.html

Benefits of Surprisingly Familiar Essential Oils

Do you ever get overwhelmed when shopping for essential oils or massage oils? There is such a vast array of choices all claiming incredible health benefits or suggesting emotional benefits. The whole experience can be enough to turn off even the most enthusiastic shopper.

What many do not realize is that there are equal, if not more, benefits in familiar essential oils than in the more exotic ones. Essential oils from sources as commonplace as oranges, lemons, and grapefruits are effective in relieving aching joints, sore muscles, and cold symptoms.

Lemon reminds us of lemonade or lemon chicken. Lemon massage oil makes an excellent formula for relief of aching joints. Grapefruit is to some a healthy breakfast and to others a bitter fruit juice reminiscent of the grapefruit diet in the 80’s. Grapefruit massage oil can relieve cold/flu symptoms when rubbed in upward strokes on the throat area. Oranges give us orange juice. Orange essential oil can be mixed with water to create an effective disinfectant spray. Rosemary has a distinctive piney scent associated with rosemary potatoes or a common herb found in many kitchens. Because of its stimulating properties, rosemary massage oil can be used to promote hair growth when rubbed vigorously into the scalp. Lavender is associated with relaxation: a few drops of the essential oil sprinkled under your pillowcase can help if you have problems falling asleep. Lavender is also used as an antiseptic- great for blemishes and burns.

Essential oils are potent because they are the concentrated essence of the plant, root, or flower. With the exception of lavender and tea tree, essential oils should be diluted in carrier oil before applied topically because they are so potent they can burn the skin if applied directly. Essential oils in a carrier oil (an oil mixed with essential oil for topical application) at a 2.5% - 3% dilution are a safe yet effective choice.

Author, Pace Webb resides in California where she practices a happy and healthy lifestyle by working with her essential oils, gardening and cooking delicious nutritious meals. Pace is the President of ReSolution Spa, an online retail boutique, specializing in organic essential and massage oils. http://www.resolutionspa.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Pace_Webb

Lavender Aromatherapy Oil - The Essentially Essential Oil

Lavender is the safest, oldest and most well known healing plant; it has been used as medicine, cosmetic, herb, and aromatherapy oil throughout history. Being that it is safe it is the most commonly applied oil in the field of aromatherapy. Studies conducted in the UK revealed that lavender oils affected the diminishment of mental faculties, such as memory, and in fact improved both memory and attention span. In these studies the Lavender’s effect on the olfactory senses—the sense of smell—has greatly increased and improved cognitive performance and mood; the lavender aromatherapy essential oil is potent in calming uncontrolled feelings and emotions. Drops of Lavender oils in the vaporizer can ease coughs and other respiratory ailments.

Lavender essential oils remove indecisiveness as well as the pain of emotional conflict and bring about a sense of rationality to the disturbed mind. The lavender aromatherapy essential oils also function not only to calm the uncontrolled emotions, but have a positive impact on the nervous system. Numerous studies have shown that the lavender aromatherapy essential oils especially pacify a number of nervous disorders: excitability, panic, nervous tension, agitation, and promotes peaceful sleep. Some of the studies concluded that the lavender aromatherapy essential oil is initially absorbed into the skin through the hair follicles; it is then diffused into the bloodstream and disperses its healing properties into the lymphatic system and a sense of lightness and calm pervades the mind. The sensation of ethereality can simply be explained by the serotonin that is released in the brain.

Brief History

Lavenders are a genus, or class of flowering plants in the mint family. They have been cultivated thousands of years throughout the globe; they are known as French, Bulgarian, Province, Kashmir, even a Tasmanian Kashmir Lavender; and by many other names relating to their geographic origin. Lavender appeals to the senses and it yields oils that are used in perfumes, balms, cosmetics, and in topical application for its anti-inflammatory and disinfectant properties. Interesting adage: Lavender was believed to cure the Plague though it was only its scent that repelled insects carrying the Plague.

The Lavender, be it English, French, or Asian, is heavily scented and blends well with other essential or carrier oils such as, floral, clove, citrus, labdanum, sage, patchouli, pine, Cedar-wood, etc. and an array of other oils. The plants produce pale yellow, or tinted green oils that have strong scents, and it blends well with the majority of aromatherapy oils.

Application

The flower-petals yield nectar that is used for flavoring honey, sugar, herbs; when blended with black tea it is sold as lavender tea. English Lavender essential oils have antiseptic and anti-inflammatory curative powers and soothe head-aches. Also, the oils wards off insects and calms itchy incest bites. The extract has been known to facilitate sleep, relaxation, and calm general restlessness. Lavender oils balance, regulate, and soothe the body and mind; added to bathwater or sprinkled on pillows Lavender oils promote peaceful and relaxed sleep. Lavender is an analgesic, anti-microbial, antidepressant, antiseptic, antitoxic, etc. The oils are used to treat hypertension, water-retention, convulsions, and other spasmodic ailments.

Surrounding oneself with products of Lavender Essential Oils may bring unexpected harmony into your life; aromatherapy incense throughout the home, aromatherapy candles for evening pleasure, lavender sachets in the closets and drawers, and drops of it on the pillows. Lavender aromatherapy essential oil can be applied in light rings, aroma lamps, diffusers, and potpourri throughout your home, bathroom, or office.

Tamra Cantar is a freelance writer on topics of interest and has a website dedicated to providing the visitor with useful information and resources for Aromatherapy. Visit AromaOilEssentials for more information on Lavender oil as well as other essential oils.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Tamra_Cantar

Natural Cures For Insomnia - Herbs That Promote Healthy Sleep

Herbs have been used as natural insomnia cures for centuries and many are very effective and safe. The following are tried and tested herbs that can have a real effect on your insomnia.

Lavender has been used for centuries to calm the nerves and lavender essential oil can be added to the bath water for a soothing, calming effect. Lavender can also be used as a massage oil or lavender sachets placed on the pillow to inhale as you fall asleep.

Passion Flower is often recommended by herbalists as an important herb in the treatment of insomnia especially when it is caused by stress or nervous exhaustion. It can be used by both children and adults and is an excellent sedative that has no known side effects.

Chamomile is a safe herb that can be used by children and adults. In the form of chamomile tea it can soothe restlessness and irritability, especially in children. Have a relaxing bath with chamomile oil added to the water before bed. It can also be used as a massage oil.

California Poppy is found in many herbal natural insomnia cures and helps to promote sleep by easing anxiety and helping you to relax. It is mild and can be used by both children and adults. Clinical studies have shown the effectiveness of California poppy in promoting sleep and helping to reduce anxiety.

Valerian is used by many herbalists for as a natural cure for insomnia. It is a good sedative for those suffering from restlessness and nervousness that is causing difficulty in sleeping. It helps to reduce waking during the night and helps you to fall asleep more quickly. It has no side effects and is often used in combination with other herbs such as passion flower or California poppy.

St. John's Wort has been used for many years for insomnia and anxiety and is now used by many herbalists to help with mild depression and insomnia. It is not an instant sure and may take a few weeks before you being to feel any benefit. It can cause sensitivity to sunlight to increase so take care to avoid exposing the skin to bright sunlight or wear a sunscreen whenever you are out of doors.

Wild lettuce has been used as a mild sedative for many years and contains an opium related chemical plus small amounts of hyoscyarnin which is an anti cramping agent. It is found in formulas for both chronic and acute insomnia.

Promote Healthy Sleep

Ensure healthy sleep by having a calming bath before bed to which you have added some fragrant lavender essential oil. Sleep pillows containing a mixture of aromatic herbs can also be helpful in promoting sleep. Eat a small meal containing carbohydrate with small amounts of protein before retiring. This combination makes tryptophan more available to the brain. This promotes the production of melatonin and serotonin which are important chemicals that regulate sleep patterns. Meals that contain the appropriate combinations include cereal with low fat milk, yogurt with granola, peanut butter and crackers and an apple with cheese.

Avoid eating foods that are stimulating late at night. This includes spicy foods that may induce heartburn, caffeine and alcohol. Foods that are high in protein contain tyrosine, an amino acid that is a brain stimulant. Also foods containing monosodium glutamate and foods high in refined sugar which can lead to a sharp increase in blood sugar levels that can disturb the sleep by causing a burst in energy.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/medicine-articles/natural-cures-for-insomnia-herbs-that-promote-healthy-sleep-784366.html