The Aromatherapy Guide

Aromatherapy can be very effective in the treatment of allergies.  You can treat many symptoms as they appear and some herbs have natural immunity building properties that may help with allergies and their reactions.

Allergies to pollen, dust, animals, and food are prevalent and more people are being diagnosed with allergies everyday.  Some of the symptoms of an allergy may be mild, while others can be so severe that they become life threatening. Some people suffer allergies only during certain months, when pollen count is high.  Others may be allergic to pet dander and may have an allergic reaction year round.

The root of an allergy is found deep within the Immune System.  In fact, an allergy is basically that your immune system is reacting in a harsh way to a substance that otherwise would cause no reaction.  However, these reactions may be mild such as red watery eyes, hives on the skin, itchiness, sneezing or a runny nose and they may be as severe as the inability to breathe, shock, and even death.

There is no way to predict if someone has an allergy, it is discovered after someone has been exposed to the “triggering” factor.  A trigger is the substance that is causing the allergic reaction.  There are however tests that may be taken to determine if an allergy to a certain substance is present.

The main test used to diagnose an allergy is a “skin test”. The Skin Test is performed by making a small prick in the skin with a minute amount of the potential “allergen”.  This could be a small amount of pollen, etc.  Within 30 minutes, the site where the test was made is checked for reactions such as redness, or hives. 

Some of the symptoms of an allergy include runny nose, sneezing, redness and itching in the eyes, wheezing, asthma, coughing, hives, skin rashes, and eczema.  Most people who know that they are allergic to a particular substance will avoid contact with the allergen.

People who know they are allergic to pollen, should avoid going out during the times of highest pollen count and those who have food allergies will avoid eating that food at all costs.

Some of the most common substances that people are allergic to include plant pollen such as Oak Trees, Rag Weed, and Birch Trees, mold spores, peanuts, eggs, chocolate, milk, soy, seafood, bee stings, animal dander, cockroaches, and dust mites.

The reasons why people develop allergies are a subject of debate. Some people believe that allergies are a product of genetics, basically, if your parents had allergies, you will too.  Some look to ethnicity and has found that some forms of allergies are more prevalent in certain ethnic groups.

There is new research being done looking for a link between immunizations and allergies.  The belief is that due to immunizations, the immune system becomes “depressed” and therefore shows this change by becoming “overly sensitive” to normal stimuli.

Some of the best herbs used with allergies include Lemon, Roman Chamomile, and Eucalyptus.  If you feel an allergic reaction coming on, you can add these essential oils into a hot tub and soak for at least 20 minutes.

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About the Author: Kathleen MacNaughton is a freelance writer, editor, and web design consultant, who has used aromatherapy as a natural health enhancement for many years. For more great tips like these, visit The Aromatherapy Guide    

Aromatherapy is an ancient art with very modern applications… 

Aromatherapy was used by the Ancient Egyptians, Romans, and in Ancient China.  Aromatherapy is the art and science of using scents from fragrant plants and herbs to offer physical, emotional, and spiritual healing. 

Aromatherapy also includes bathing in fragrant oils or in infusions.  Queen Esther, of the Bible, was recorded to have bathed in various oils to soften and beautify her skin before being presented before the King.  These ancient treatments are finding new popularity with people today. 

Scent has a powerful effect on the human mind, and by stimulating the senses with pleasant fragrances, negative feelings and emotions will give way to peace and tranquility. 

As well as the benefits from pleasing aromas, many essential oils have inherent healing properties.  These properties range from being germicidal or antifungal, to fever reducing and healing skin conditions. 

Aromatherapists study various plants and herbs and are familiar with their properties.  They then blend different and complimenting herbs with each other to create infusions, Aromatherapy massage oils, and even Aromatherapy candles. 

Aromatherapy candles are used to release fragrance into a room.  They are a wonderful addition to either an aromatherapy massage or bath, and you may choose a scent that compliments or blends with a scent that you are using for your bath or massage, or if you prefer, you may choose the same scent.

Today, Aromatherapy candles are made out of organic wax and not just paraffin.  If you have ever burned a candle and noticed black soot on the glass candleholder, then you have used a candle made of paraffin wax.  Paraffin is petroleum based, and therefore it is not a suitable choice for Aromatherapy. 

Now, you can choose Aromatherapy candles that are made out of Soy Wax or Beeswax.  Soy Wax candles are a very popular alternative due to the fact that Soy is an organic substance.  A Soy Wax Aromatherapy candle will burn clean.  It will release your selected Aromatherapy Essential Oil into the air and not produce any soot or Petroleum based waste.  These candles are the perfect solution for those with allergies, asthma, and other breathing problems. 

Let’s face it; if you were using an Aromatherapy bath for respiratory problems, would you then want to burn an Aromatherapy candle that will leave pollution and residue in the same air that you are breathing?  The answer is to use 100% organic Soy Wax Aromatherapy candles.

There are many benefits to Aromatherapy, and many different reasons why people choose this Ancient healing art form.  One of the major reasons why people choose Aromatherapy is for relaxation and stress relief. 

Lavender is a wonderful Essential Oil that may be used to bring the body into a state of tranquility, peace, and well-being.  Lavender will also treat anxiety and nervous conditions. You can blend Lavender with many oils, such as any citrus-based herb or oil.  This includes adding a citrus Aromatherapy candle while soaking in a Lavender bath.  You can also blend Lavender with Rosewood, Clove, Eucalyptus and Rosemary for great results.

 

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About the Author: Kathleen MacNaughton is a freelance writer, editor, and web design consultant, who has used aromatherapy as a natural health enhancement for many years. For more great tips like these, visit The Aromatherapy Guide     

Today, let’s take a look at chamomile. The annual form of chamomile is also called German chamomile. It grows to 20 inches and has feathery foliage with daisy-like flowers like its cousin. The flowers are scented, but the foliage is not.

This perennial plant is also known as Roman chamomile. It can be used as a groundcover, since it grows only 4 to 12 inches in height. The foliage is feathery, with an apple scent, and it is accented by white, daisy-like flowers with down-turned petals.

Botanical Name: Matricaria chamomilla
Common Method of Extraction: Steam Distilled
Color: Deep Blue
Consistency: Thin
Perfumery Note: Middle
Strength of Initial Aroma: Medium
Aromatic Description: Sweet, fruity, herbaceous.
Possible Uses: Abscesses, allergies, arthritis, boils, colic, cuts, cystitis, dermatitis, dysmenorrhea, earache, flatulence, hair, headache, inflamed skin, insect bites, insomnia, nausea, neuralgia, PMS, rheumatism, sores, sprains, strains, stress, wounds.

Cultivation

Roman chamomile is usually reproduced by root division, while German chamomile seeds are sown directly in early spring. The soil should be sandy and slightly acid. Full sun is preferred except in hot, dry climates where midday shade is necessary. Chamomile can also be used around the edges of containers with other herbs. After flowering, cut back to the main growth.

Harvesting and Drying

Cut the flowers from the stems with scissors and spread them out on muslin covered racks to dry.

Culinary Uses

Roman chamomile foliage can be chopped and stirred into butter or sour cream that is used to top baked potatoes.

Medicinal Uses

German Chamomile is most often used for medicinal purposes, and is usually administered as a tea. It can also be administered as a compress for external healing and as a bath for babies. Here are a few uses:

• Soothes and relaxes at bedtime.
• Relieves restlessness, teething problems, and colic in children.
• Relieves allergies, much as an antihistamine would.
• Aids digestion when taken as a tea after meals.
• Relieves morning sickness during pregnancy.
• Speeds healing of skin ulcers, wounds, or burns.
• Treats gastritis and ulcerative colitis.
• Relieves headaches. (I can vouch for this one personally!)

Other Uses

• Makes a relaxing bath or footbath.
• Lightens fair hair and conditions complexion. Make a rinse by simmering 2 teaspoons dried flowers in 8 ounces of water for 15 minutes.
• Potpourri (dry flowers face down).

I’ll be profiling different herbs here regularly, so please check back or subscribe…

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About the Author: Kathleen MacNaughton is a freelance writer, editor, and web design consultant, who has used aromatherapy as a natural health enhancement for many years. For more great tips like these, visit The Aromatherapy Guide     

Candles attach emotional importance to any occasion and moments; a great aromatherapy candle has that great ability to enhance the mood and ambience of any environment. Even though doubts around the effectiveness of aromatherapy are still present, all of us do know that candles and aromas are effective for evoking mood and emotions.

What you’re about to read is the result of ongoing interaction over a long period with aromatherapy enthusiasts like you. This article was written to answer some of the most frequently asked questions about aromatherapy candles and to address common issues of interest. I hope you’ll find this information helpful.

Candles provide a glowing history as an object of exoticness and reverence; their use is as old as human history itself. Many great civilizations and modern societies have held candles as an instrument of radiance; their radiance properties surpass any other similar objects. Candles have long been used as a “mood-setting” addition to a room or occasion and now more innovative aromatherapy candles enhance that goal further.

Aromatherapy practice uses natural essential oils that are absorbed through massage, ingestion or olfaction (also called sensory). Aromatic oils are also use to make candles, which can have a physiological or therapeutic effect on mood through their fragrances.

However, scented candles should not be confused with aromatherapy candles. Scented candles simply contain a fragrance, most probably artificial, whereas aromatherapy candles contain natural essential oils.

For every mood and moment, there is an aromatherapy candle.

Probably one of the most well-known aromatherapy oils for alleviating stress and anxiety is lavender. A bowl of floating lavender aromatherapy candles to accompany your bath will help you relax after a long day. A small candle on your dining table will sway your desolate mood to a feeling of satisfaction.

Here are some other top-rated essential oils might be found in aromatherapy candles:

• Sage: This oil helps with insomnia and relaxation
• Chamomile: Exciting oil used for relaxing, helps with sleeplessness and anxiety
• Rosemary: An out of the world oil, which is stimulating and uplifting and good for mental stimulation
• Grapefruit: Freshly uplifting and refreshing
• Eucalyptus: A strong oil which helps with respiratory problems and boosts the immune system
• Ylang Ylang: Soothing oil as a good antidepressant that helps you relax and sleep
• Geranium: Its sober effects help with relaxation while also being uplifting; helps balance hormones in women
• Peppermint: Sweet aroma helps with digestive disorders, headaches and muscle aches
• Lemon: Invigorating oil which uplifts and relaxes you senses

As with any health product, you should understand what you are using when burning aromatherapy candles. You must know which type of oil is used in your candles. Certain essential oils can be harmful; it is always advised to be careful.

Any type of candle can be formulated to serve as an aromatherapy candle, whether it’s a floating, pillar, gel, votive or even jar candle.

You will notice candles labeled as “aromatherapy” candles range greatly in price; the price ranging from a low to high cost depending on the quality and availability of oil. Several factors effect the price, such as types and qualities of wax, additives or purity, as well as other factors related to manufacturing. However, one main ingredient which can make or break the success of a candle as well as the price is its fragrance.

You can make your own aromatherapy candles too at your home! The best waxes for aromatherapy candles are of course a bit more expensive. Many natural waxes such as soy, palm and beeswax burn cleaner and do not emanate soot and are not petroleum or polymer based such as paraffin or gel waxes.

More natural cotton or zinc core wick should be used instead of leaded wick because of health hazard issues. Instead of adding dye to color the candle, include natural substances like herbs and flower petals. Always use pure essential oils for fragrance. This is definitely expensive, but worth it plus you can mix and match your own blends.

Palm wax or palm/beeswax blend candles are always better, because they burn so long and clean and they blend quite easily with your oils. Essential oils should be added after the wax has melted and started cooling to preserve the integrity of the fragrance as they easily breakdown and evaporate.

Decorating your candle can be as easy as tying a ribbon around it to adding pressed flowers to it. Make several small motiffs or round candles and add to a basket for a great gift idea.

Now that you’ve read this article, don’t stop learning all you can about aromatherapy candles. Look up a few more resources on the topic. Soon you’ll discover you have all you ever need to know!

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About the Author: Kathleen MacNaughton is a freelance writer, editor, and web design consultant, who has used aromatherapy as a natural health enhancement for many years. For more great tips like these, visit The Aromatherapy Guide    

Have you scented those exotic aromas of essential oils emanating from a wall diffuser? Essential oils emanate a subtle fume of aroma, when diffused slowly over a period of time.

Diffusion of aromatic aroma brings a whiff of freshness in to your room, like a fresh forest wind. Diffusion is the process of dispersing essential oils so that their aroma fills a room or an area with the natural fragrance.

From the simple to the detailed, many different methods exist for diffusing components oils into your room. Three easy methods exist which can be carried out with equipments you have in your household. Plus, there are numerous diffusers and diffusing devices available from aromatherapy vendors.

The essential advantages of using diffusers are:

1. The complex but unstable aromas of your favorite oil can be diffused slowly over a period of time.
2. You can use any type of oil for diffusing their aromatic fumes.
3. On diffusion, the oil gives out aroma in a calculated manner, from the unstable high note to more stable low note.
4. You can feel progressive onset of different stages of aromas.

You can use methods that are simple and can be done in your home itself:

Simple Tissue Diffusion: Drop 3-4 drops of essential oil on a tissue and place it near you. As movement occurs in the room, you will notice the distinct aroma. This method can be used anywhere, how ever this method does not emit much aroma into a room.

Steam Diffusion: Make boil 2 cups of water. Pour the water into a bowl and add up to 10 drops of oil to the water. Use fewer drops if you are allergic. The steam will heat up the oils and cause them to evaporate quickly into the room. This method will quickly diffuse the oil into a room and the aroma is not exceptionally long-lasting and it is highly unstable.

Candle Diffusion: Light a candle and allow it to burn for about 5 minutes. Put off the flame and place 1 drop of essential oil in the melted wax and then relight the candle. As essential oils are highly flammable please be very careful. The aroma is short lived.

Apart from these home made methods, several diffusers are available among many vendors. Decide on what you need to buy, what oils to be used and how much will need to be paid. Here are some of the diffusers that are available in the market today:

Lamp Rings: Lamp rings are in essence a terra-cotta ring that sets directly and correctly onto a light bulb. It has a deep grooved lip that wraps around it. This lip holds essential oil. The heat from a light bulb heats the essential oil in the Lamp Ring and the oil is then gently diffused into the room. Lamp Rings are usually inexpensive. If any essential oil seeps onto the light bulb, the light bulb could burst. Some of the essential compounds might get altered chemically.

Clay Pot Diffusers: A clay pot diffuser contains an opening for adding essential oils. A cork is used to close the opening. The oils permeate through the pot and then diffuse out into the room. The intensity of the aroma depends on the quantity of essential oil that is added to the clay pot. Clay pot diffusers are inexpensive, easy to use, and do not require electricity or batteries. The aroma is strongest in the initial stages and later it dissipates as time passes.

Candle Diffusers: A candle diffuser is a diffuser that uses a small tea light or other candle to gently heat the essential oil to promote diffusion into a room. A candle diffuser is usually made of ceramic or metal. The diffuser has an opening for a candle and a little container for storing essential oil. Candle diffusers are inexpensive, depending on the style and design. Candle diffusers do not require electricity or batteries. There may be a certain loss of essential compounds as the heat will destroy them very gradually.

Fan Diffusers: A fan diffuser uses a fan to blow the essential oils into the air. To use a fan diffuser, essential oils are placed on an absorbent pad or into a tray. The pad or tray is placed into the unit and then the power switched on. The fan then blows air across this pad or tray and transports the aroma throughout the room. Fan diffusers are available in a different brands and styles. Based on the brand and model, they can fragrance a large area. Fan diffusers are very easy to use and are portable. Some times you will need to buy the pad and often these units create some noise.

Electric Heat Diffusers: Like fan diffuser, heat diffusers use heat and a fan to gently heat the oil and disperse the aroma into a room. Electric heat diffusers will disperse aromas over larger areas, depending on the brand and style. They can also help to more efficiently disperse the aromas of thicker oils such as Sandalwood and Patchouli. Some of the components of essential oil may get lost during heating.

Nebulizers: A nebulizer is a device that takes essential oils and breaks them into separate molecules before dispersing the smaller molecules into the room. A nebulizer is a small device consisting of two main parts: a plastic base that contains the motor and a very unusual, clear blown-glass looking device that holds and “nebulizes” the oils. It is said that nebulizers can supply greater therapeutic benefit than the use of other diffusers because they break the oils down into smaller molecules. The glass piece is highly breakable and expensive to replace. Some essential oils can not be used with nebulizers as they can clog the opening.

You can pick up any of these diffusers available in the market; but rest assured of their action and get ready to experience the exotic aromas swirling around you, like mists of magic.

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About the Author: Kathleen MacNaughton is a freelance writer, editor, and web design consultant, who has used aromatherapy as a natural health enhancement for many years. For more great tips like these, visit The Aromatherapy Guide    

Healers have been using herbs in aromatherapy for centuries.

Aromatic herbs are some of the most unusual plants species in the plant kingdom, and their contribution to civilization is a fact well recognized. Aromatic plants are those which contain certain natural compounds called “natural scents.”

Most of these critical extracts are obtained from different parts of a plant like leaves, stem, flowers, seeds and roots. Though they are hidden in these parts, they can be extracted by distillation or fractionation processes.

The number of catalogued aromatic herbs exceeds 250, though many of them are not really productive. How ever, about 100 varieties are known to possess unique compounds that are used as aromatherapy essential oils.

Herbs have a variety of effects, including antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, sedative or stimulant properties. By being aware of each plant’s properties and using them carefully, you can relieve various symptoms or illnesses.

In general, aromatherapy experts believe that all essential oils have the ability to strengthen the immune system, and are detoxifying in nature. Essential oils can be used as preventive treatment; most symptoms can be reduced with regular treatment.

Various herbs and plants that can be used are - Basil, Lavender, Garlic, Aloe Vera, Seaweed, Nettle, Rosemary, Tea tree, Dandelion and Liquorices. Basil has expectorant and antibiotic/antiseptic properties. Lavender is a relaxant. Garlic is antiseptic, antibiotic and expectorant. The expectorant properties make garlic excellent for the respiratory system. The juice from a bulb of garlic can be used on cuts and bruises.

Rosemary is an anti-inflammatory, antiseptic plant, its uses are various. Tea Tree is an antiseptic and mild disinfectant which aids healing, and strengthens the immune system. Dandelion is used to treat kidney or liver disorders, the root stimulates the liver and the leaves act as a diuretic. Liquorices can be used as an antibiotic, anti-inflammatory, demulcent, antispasmodic and expectorant herb.

Aromatic herbs are cherished by many professionals in the world for their healing properties. Hundreds of recipes are researched and chronicled every day, each with different uses and applications. Carefully selected herbs are chosen from which to extract essential oils and refined for a long shelf life.

Many herbs can even be grown in containers at home or in cottage gardens; the fresh aroma and the sweet essence of flowers and leaves are sources of joy and relaxation for any garden owner.

Aromatherapy herbs are known to be special plants for special purposes; these organic extracts are all pure and 100% safe for therapeutic uses. Aromatic oils are eternal and man’s quest for perfection to acquire a pure essential oil is never ending.

Blending aromatherapy oils in to a well balanced mix is a workmanship that is a combination of an art as well as aesthetic sensitivity.

Aromatherapy blends that complement workout routines in our daily lives are among the fastest growing uses of aromatherapy today. An essential oil blend is created for aesthetic and/or therapeutic benefits.

No special skill is required to produce a successful blend but a spirit of creativity and a thorough knowledge of oils will help, along with a clear understanding of the intended use of the blend. A sensible aromatherapy blend employs all-natural, pure essential oils and delivers a clear benefit.

The oils combined in it should be synergistic and harmonious enough to support and enhance oil’s effect. Before starting your blending work, it’s very important to understand essential oils in general, as well as the specific parameters and aroma profiles of the oils you want to work with.

Essential oils are essentially very volatile. When you uncap a bottle of essential oil and expose it to the air, its aroma profile immediately begins to spread, develop and change. It undergoes certain defined morphological changes during its life span.

The three main stages of these changes are known as the top note stage, middle stage, and dry out stage. These stages of volatility coincide with three characteristics of the aroma profile known as top notes, middle notes and base notes.

The top note stage appears first and corresponds with the most volatile, productive and unstable aroma compounds of the oil. The aromas of these compounds are very subtle, smooth and fleeting, sometimes lasting just for a few seconds before dissipating.

As the top notes evaporate very gradually, the oil enters its middle stage, in which the aroma body is most developed and balanced. A portion of the top notes remain, the middle notes are most apparent and sensible while the base notes are beginning to develop slowly.

As the middle stage progresses slowly, the base notes become visible and more noticeable, because they consist of compounds that are slow to volatilization. When the base notes finally evaporate, a faint but light dry out note lingers. The aroma profile of the dry out stage is thin, sometimes pungent, and suggests the presence of the oil. The dry out component can be thought of as the matrix or the soul of the oil.

Based on their individual aroma profiles, oils can be categorized into top notes, middle notes and bottom notes. A very delicate, highly volatile oil like bergamot is considered top note oil. Well balanced oil like clary sage would be known as middle note oil. Deep, rich, very tenacious oil like patchouli is considered base note oil.

When creating a blend, attempt for balance between top, middle and base note oils. Well balanced oil has a complex aroma profile and maintains the aromatherapy benefit throughout the various stages, although the characteristics of the scent may change. It is more stable and its usage spells a clear motive and defined benefit.

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Aromatic scents are known to have exerted an enduring influence on the psyche of all deep rooted ancient civilizations of the world.

Its story is never complete and never ending; at least, one of the great royalties in any given time is known to be associated with mesmerizing effects of these scents. Since ancient times, common man has also used scent to entice and excite. And modern perfume manufacturers – with heaps of scientific evidence are developing great perfumery blends with just such a purpose in mind. The impact of aromapathy scents is eternal and will linger on as long as our civilization.

So, what is the magic of these exotic scents? Why are some scents more conducive to romance than say, business pursuits? Why are some scents are more soothing and relaxing than others? Though, these factors can not be explained very easily, their effect on our life is definite. When you inhale an aroma, it sends a myriad of messages through the olfactory nerve endings to the limbic system of the brain.

This system, also known as the “old brain” manages instinctive responses like emotional, sexual and aggressive behaviors. And some scents - like jasmine, vanilla and ylang ylang – will stimulate the release of neurochemicals which trigger sexual response. Plus, our personal preference of seductive scents is influenced by pheromones, barely visible human scent molecules that travel through perspiration. Pheromones are known to be very mysterious in exerting their influence on human beings.

However, each pheromone is entirely different. Because of the highly acidic nature of a man’s sweat, male pheromones have a more musky quality than female ones. Musk and sandalwood scents, in fact, are known to be romantically enticing to women because they closely resemble the chemical make-up of male pheromones. Exotic and romantic perfume blends are often created with the essential oils of patchouli, sandalwood, jasmine and ylang ylang. Of course, perfume enthusiasts have other aims in mind too.

The Egyptians, Greeks and Romans of yesteryears created special blends for seduction, but also for worshipping deities, enjoying holidays, and encouraging readiness before battle and inspiring deep contemplation and rejuvenation. Today all of us are still completely enveloped with aroma. And with various essential oils, we can also blend our own scents for various purposes.

A successful perfume is considered as an “aromatic symphony” - a perfect and harmonious blend of top, middle and base notes. Top notes are sharp, fleeting and alluring scents, those first noticed in a fragrance and the first to fade. Middle notes summarize the fragrance midway through the drying process, which can be considered the soul, or the melody of the blend. And base notes are deep, rich, stable, grounding scents that stabilize the fragrance and prolong its power, because their slow evaporation rate.

When trying blending a perfume, begin by swirling quickly the essential oils and absolutes together in a tight mix. Then mix them to your pick of vegetable-based oil. Jojoba works very well as a base because it’s waxy nature, so it doesn’t become rancid and will increase the life of the perfume. Avoid synthetic oils while blending your concoction as they will mask the original flavor of your blend.

If you want to fragrance hair, clothes and sheets blend essential oils and absolutes in an atomizer and mix pure grain alcohol or 100 proof vodka. You can also create a refreshing, spicy-scented base by adding one stick of cinnamon, one vanilla bean or two tablespoons of spices (cloves, allspice or ginger) to a pint of alcohol. Vanilla is known to induce sexual desire while cinnamon is attributed to arouse female passions.

Alcohol-based oils improve as they mature with aging, so prepare them ahead and let the mixtures meld in a dark place for a few weeks before using. The most enduring aspects of these blends are the everlasting quality after a sustained aging process. As they mature, the blends unfold the aromatic magic, the air filling with exotic fumes of heavenly scent.

Aromatherapy scents are a source of pure joy; their effects surreal and influence everlasting. As some one rightly said “As Rosemary is to the spirit, so Lavender is to the soul.” How true it is!

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About the Author: Kathleen MacNaughton is a freelance writer, editor, and web design consultant, who has used aromatherapy as a natural health enhancement for many years. For more great tips like these, visit The Aromatherapy Guide   

As you get into using aromatherapy to relieve stress or for other uses, it’s absolutely crucial that you begin to understand which essential oils can be used and what the properties are for each one.

One of nature’s greatest gifts to mankind is the magical properties of aromatherapy essential oils. Their existence is considered to be very ancient, with a history of 3500 years. Latest research has only recently shown what aromatherapists have known for many ages: “what we smell has a direct impact on how we feel.”

Like the other senses, the things we smell are transmitted directly to the brain. Research has proved that lavender aroma steps up alpha waves in the back of the head, which is associated with relaxation. That means using lavender helps you to relax. On the other hand, jasmine scent increases beta waves in the front of the head, which has been found to make you feel more alert. You will be on your toes, if you smell jasmine.

The use of essential oils includes inhaling their scent. Aromatherapy is an established system of caring for the body with herbal and botanical oils. Many times, it is the scent that gives the therapeutic value, and other times it works better by making the skin absorb the oil. Irrespective of how the oil is absorbed into the body, whether through the skin, the mouth, or the nose, essential oils have long been used to help in healing.

Enjoy the benefits of scent by dropping a few drops of essential oil in your bath, or placing some drops in a diffuser, which sits on a socket. When using oil on the surface, it is always a good idea to mix the essential oil with a carrier oil such as almond, sesame, or olive. This reduces the impact of the oil a bit, but can also prevent harmful adverse reactions.

Before you use these oils, make sure that you take a patch test. Just apply a tiny amount to the inside of your arm and examine it after 24 hours. If there is no reaction, you are safe in using the oil elsewhere on the body. Use essential oils sparingly and carefully to achieve the maximum benefits.

Here are some common ailments and suggestions for the use of essential oils in treating them. It would be a good idea to find an aromatherapist to help you; so that you can learn how to blend your own mixtures and achieve the greatest benefit from them.

Allergies: Mix one drop of cypress and one drop of hyssop in the palm of your hand and then apply the mixture to the back of your tongue every few hours to relieve hay fever symptoms.

Backache: Mix equal parts of blue chamomile, birch, rosemary or eucalyptus, ginger or black pepper, lavender, and a carrier oil. Rub into the affected area after a hot bath, when muscles are relaxed and pores are open.

Nausea or stomachache: Put two drops peppermint oil on a sugar cube and suck the cube slowly. Or, add a few drops of peppermint oil to hot water and drink as a tea.

Headaches: Peppermint, inhaled directly from the bottle, or rubbed with a little carrier oil under the nose and at the temples, can be very soothing for headaches.

Cuts, scrapes & scratches: Lavender oil can be applied undiluted to soothe and help heal minor cuts and abrasions.

Anxiety: Lavender, bergamot, Melissa, geranium, and ylang-ylang are great for calming weary nerves. You can mix three or four together. Add to a bath, use in a scent lamp, or massage into the skin with a carrier oil.

Sleep aids: Marjoram, lavender and ylang-ylang in a warm bath can be soothing before bedtime and aid in sleep.

Colds or flu: Blend three parts ravensare, one part naiouli or eucalyptus, one part lemon, one part rosewood, and one part lavender. Add about 50 drops of this mixture to a diffuser, or add 6-8 drops to a bowl of just boiled water, place a towel over your head, bend over the bowl and inhale.

Stress: Lavender and sage are very relaxing. Place a few drops of each on a tissue and leave on the dashboard so the sun can warm it and diffuse it into the air of the car.

Arthritis: Add 10 drops each of rosemary and chamomile to a warm bath and soak for 10 minutes.

There are many other essential oils, for treating everything from acne to diabetes to depression. Most oils are not harmful if inhaled, but care should be taken when they are applied topically on the skin, and never take any essential oil internally without the advice of a skilled professional.

There you have it, a crash course in aromatherapy essential oils use!

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About the Author: Kathleen MacNaughton is a freelance writer, editor, and web design consultant, who has used aromatherapy as a natural health enhancement for many years. For more great tips like these, visit The Aromatherapy Guide    

Aromatherapy offers its users some unique benefits and introducing aromatic oils into your daily life is quite easy, flexible, and therapeutically beneficial.
Now that you’ve learned some of the basics about the art of aromatherapy from our previous articles, it’s time to learn more about what aromatherapy can do for you.

Numerous essential oils have been used since time immemorial, for various purposes. The uses have been quite diverse. There are a few ways in which you can get started with aromatherapy as a beginner.

However, the methods described here should be used as guidelines only, and you will need to understand the precise purpose and pay special attention to all safety precautions that are attached to the oil chosen for use. It is important to remember that essential oils are highly flammable. Never allow the vials and bottles of these oils to fall into the hands of children.

Some of the most common uses of aromatic oils and other substances are:

• As an easy inhalation medication. Essential oils can be used as inhalants to remove the nasal blockages caused by common colds and allergies. Place 3 to 4 drops of essential oil on a clean tissue. Place the tissue near your nose and inhale. If you are a first timer, use only one drop to ensure that you do not have a sensitivity or reaction to the oil. Some people are allergic to aromatic oils.
• As steam inhalation drops. Symptoms of the common cold and the flu can be greatly relieved using aromatherapy. Initially, boil 2 cups of water. Pour the water into a bowl and add 3 to 7 drops of your oil to the water. Use fewer drops if you are using an oil that may cause irritation to your mucous membranes (i.e. cinnamon, eucalyptus, rosemary, pine, thyme, cajuput, etc.). Place your nose about 12 inches away from the bowl and inhale deeply. Never inhale the steam constantly and if you notice any adverse reaction, stop immediately. Use of energizing or relaxing oils can also make this method useful any time of day or night.
• As a room freshener. You can use aromatic oils to freshen up rooms; a few drops in to a diffuser will help spread the magnificent aroma of these oils. You can use any of the exotic aromatic oils like jasmine, lavender or rose oil.
• As a general household freshener. Add a few drops of your favorite oil to your trash can, laundry wash, drain, vacuum bag filter, or on a tissue for placement in your drawers.
• As a bug repellent. Tired of those bugs and insects? Then try essential oil aromatherapy! Many essential oils, including citronella, lavender, and peppermint, act as a natural repellent against insects and bugs. Sprinkle a few drops of essential oil onto tissues or cotton balls and place near your doorways and windows to help repel insects. Be cautious when using these oils, as some oils may not be suitable for use around pets. Be careful not to apply the essential oil directly onto fragile surfaces.
• For massage purposes. Aromatic oils are known all over the world for their massaging properties. The art of massage is never complete without your favorite oil. Add up to 20 drops of essential oil to 1 ounce of a carrier oil such as sweet almond oil and massage onto yourself or partner. Keep away from eyes and genital areas. Do not apply essential oils to the skin without first diluting them. Read all safety instructions.
• For bathing. Some oils make excellent bathing and relaxing drops. Add 5 to 7 drops essential oil to 1 ounce carrier oil. Add this blend to your running bath water and mix well before getting into the tub. Be sure to read the safety data for the essential oils you choose to use. Feel the exotic freshness and amazing scent emanating all around you! This is one of my favorite uses of aromatherapy.
• Other Uses. Essential oils and aromatherapy can be used in making homemade lotions, facial toners, shampoos, perfumes, soaps, shower gels, and other natural products. Additionally, essential oils are often blended for their therapeutic synergistic abilities.

However you choose to use aromatherapy is up to you, but be aware of the benefits before you begin, so that you can get the most bang for your buck!

You can research essential oils by Googling, but here are a few examples of oils and their main benefits:

Essential Oil	Benefits
Cedarwood	skin problems, stretch marks, alopecia, dandruff
Chamomile	antiseptic, headaches, inflammation, stress
Rosemary	baldness, migraine, colds, depression
Peppermint	headaches, muscle aches, digestive disorders

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About the Author: Kathleen MacNaughton is a freelance writer, editor, and web design consultant, who has used aromatherapy as a natural health enhancement for many years. For more great tips like these, visit The Aromatherapy Guide