Essential Oil Beginners Guide

ESSENTIAL OILS BEGINNERS GUIDE Essential Oil Chemistry - Why Aroma Matters An Easy Primer on Essential Oil Chemistry, and Why Good Chemistry Means Good Aromas

Yet if you're interested at all in the therapeutic use of essential oils, a little primer on their chemistry can be very useful. Not only will you better understand how and why essential oils work, but the great importance of using natural, high-quality oils - oils that are pure, properly distilled, AND smell nice - will be made clear. It's not just an aromatherapy sales pitch; essential oils with exceptional bouquets have different chemical make-ups than flat or otherwise uninteresting oils. The differences can significantly affect the healing potency of therapeutic applications for you, your family and/or your clients. Much of the time, you can discern the difference of therapeutic value between two oils just by their aroma - one needn't always have the proof of fancy, expensive machines to make an educated choice. Essential Oils Defined So, why are essential oils called 'oils' anyway? They don't feel greasy, and they tend to evaporate completely, unlike common 'fixed' oils (such as olive, grapeseed, hazelnut and the like). Essential oils and fixed oils share a similar chemical foundation: their structures are based on the linking of carbon and hydrogen atoms in various configurations. But this is really where the similarity ends. Fixed oils are made up of molecules comprised of three long chains of carbon atoms bound together at one end, called a triglyceride. Every fixed oil is made up of just a few different

triglyceride arrangements - olive oil, for example, is primarily made up of oleic, linoleic and linolenic acids (the names of particular carbon-hydrogen chains forming the triglycerides). Their long-chain shape holds them in a liquid state which does not easily evaporate. Essential oils are 'volatile' oils - oils that DO easily evaporate. Their chains of carbon atoms to which the hydrogens attach are not as long or heavy, and are much more complex. Many essential oil structures are not really chains, but ring, or multi-ringed shapes with diverse subunits - called 'functional groups' - sticking out in various directions. Like their fixed oil counterparts, essential oils are lipophillic - meaning 'fat liking'. The fat-liking nature of both fixed and essential oils makes them easily absorbed by our bodies. Because of their typically smaller structures however, essential oils are absorbed more rapidly than fixed oils, and can easily penetrate deep into the body. Despite their plant origins, this lipophillic nature of essential oils makes their profound healing action on the human body possible. The Importance of Functional Groups Most of the therapeutic activity of an essential oil can be attributed to the functional groups of the individual chemicals that make up the oil. There can be over a hundred identifiable molecules in one essential oil. Each of these molecules, as mentioned earlier, is a chain or ring (or multiplering) structure of carbon atoms linked together with hydrogen atoms bonded to them in various configurations. Every chain or ring has a functional group attached - a functional group is defined by Salvatore Battaglia in 'The Complete Guide to Aromatherapy' as: "a single atom or group of atoms that...has a profound influence upon the properties of the molecule as a whole. It is often referred to as the chemically active center of the molecule". As you can see, essential oils are really very complex in their chemical nature. There are nearly infinite possibilities of functional group and ring or chain combinations. And ONE essential oil alone can be made up of HUNDREDS of these different molecular arrangements. Don't worry, though! While it sounds complex, one needn't know all the precise chemical details to use essential oils therapeutically. When selecting between varieties of an essential oil, It IS helpful to know that any particularly oil is often composed of one or more primary molecular forms, with many minor or 'trace' constituents, and that ALL these molecules contribute to the oil's aroma and therapeutic action. There are eight major classes of aromatic molecules defined by their functional groups. Briefly, along with primary therapeutic actions and a few example oils, these are: Monoterpene Alcohols - antiviral, antibacterial, antifungal, both stimulating and sedative with an often uplifting aroma; found in Lavender, Geranium, Tea Tree, and Peppermint.

Sesquiterpene Alcohols - varying properties including anti-inflammatory, antiviral and anticarcinogenic; found in Frankincense, Sandalwood, Vetiver, Cedar, Carrot Seed and Spikenard. Aldehydes - antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, disinfectant, sedative in low doses, known for their bright, fresh aromas; found in Citronella, Lemongrass and Lemon. Esters - antispasmodic, anti-inflammatory, antifungal, calming and sedative with fruity and floral aromas; found in Roman Chamomile, Lavender and Geranium. Generally very safe, although methyl salicylate, an ester found in Wintergreen, should only be used in very low doses. Ethers - antispasmodic, analgesic, antimicrobial - to be used in moderation, large doses can be dangerous; found in Clove, Anise, Fennel, and the Methyl Chavicol type Basil. Ketones - Anticatarrhal, regenerative, analgesic, some are known toxins where others are completely safe. Oils such as wormwood and mugwort should not be used, but Helichrysum is exceptionally healing and safe, and Rosemary Verbenone is used for its regenerative properties. Oxides - expectorant, stimulant. Includes 1,8-Cineol, found in Eucalyptus and Rosemary. Phenols - Strongly antimicrobial, stimulants to the immune and nervous system, irritating to mucous membranes; found in Thyme and Oregano. Non-irritating varieties are found in Fennel and Tarragon. Factors Affecting An Oil's Chemical Makeup Many factors in an essential oil's production affect the total number and relative amounts of individual chemicals found in the final product. These include where the plant was grown, soil and climate conditions, time of harvest, distillation equipment, plus the time, temperature and pressure of distillation. This can give you an idea as to why two varieties of the same oil can smell so different: The full, beautiful bouquet of a fine essential oil will contain a myriad of notes, telling you that all natural components are present and in balanced amounts. Poorly distilled oils may lose some of the secondary constituents during production, and adulterated or synthetic oils may not have some of the trace components at all, detectable by your nose as a flat or uninteresting aroma. The Chemistry of Lavender as an Example To best understand this, we'll examine Lavender essential oil; more than fifty individual molecules have been identified in pure lavender essential oil. The aromatherapist must remember that ALL of these chemicals found in pure and natural lavender oil work together to produce a therapeutic effect. For example, the linalool molecule is antiviral and antibacterial; the linalyl acetate is also emotionally calming; other major components including cineol, limonene, pinene and others are all noted for specific biologic and aromatic activity. It is the combined, balanced, synergistic action of these chemicals that make pure, high-quality lavender such a great healer. No one chemical can be singled out and used to give the same profound results as the complete pure essential oil.

So how is this synergy reflected in Lavender's aroma? Each of these chemicals has a unique smell; some are sweet, some are camphorous, some citrusy and some herbaceous. It is all these chemicals together, a precise amount of each, that gives each lavender variety its distinct aroma. And your nose knows this! One can tell the difference between a well-made, complex lavender oil with many notes within the aroma, and one that is flat or plain, which may be chemically imbalanced or missing some trace constituents. One can easily tell the difference, for example, between common Lavendula officinalis, and the finer Lavendula angustifolia, which contains a higher proportion of sweet-smelling linalyl acetate and less sharp-smelling camphor. Further, lower quality lavender plants may occasionally be sprayed with linalool before harvest to enhance the production of linalyl acetate by the flowers. While the end-product may smell sweeter, the process actually creates an imbalance in the overall healing synergy of the primary and trace molecules. All these oils will be labeled 'Lavender' on the store shelf, yet the finer, natural lavender will have a more beautiful, balanced aromatic bouquet, and is considered the most holistically healing variety by the world's leading aromatherapy practitioners. High-Grade Essential Oils: Your Nose Knows the Differnece This of course is not true of only lavender essential oil. All essential oils are subject to similar variations in production methods or the manipulation of their molecular make-ups through the addition of synthetic chemicals. For the most therapeutic benefit, it is always best to use true, carefully-made essential oils. To do this, find a source that is dedicated to supplying only the highest grades of oils. Examine their product's aromatic quality and business practices and so that you are comfortable with their dedication to your health, not just their bottom line. Listen to your intuition and your own nose; they won't lie to you! With experience, your ability to discern between subtly different grades of oils will become more astute. With even more education and skill, you'll start to recognize individual chemicals within an oils aroma, and make the best decisions as to which oils will have the most profound therapeutic affects for you, your family, or in your professional practice.

Making Essential Oils - Steam Distillation, CO2's and Absolutes Aromatherapy Goes 'High Tech' - New methods of essential oil extraction are entering the mainstream of aromatherapy, offering new choices in oils never before available.

With the new labels of 'CO2' and 'SCO2', along with the traditional 'steam' and 'hydro' distillations, 'absolutes', and 'cold pressing', a little education for the aromatherapy enthusiast can go a long way in essential oil selection. Is one process better than another? Does one produce a nicer smelling oil, or one with greater aromatherapeutic value? It turns out that essential oil production, like wine making, is an art form as well as a science. The value of the newer processing methods depends greatly on the experience of the distiller, as well as the intended application of the final product. Each method is important, and has it's place in the making of aromatherapy-grade essential oils. Steam and Hydro Distillation Steam distillation, the most common method of essential oil production, involves the flow of steam into a chamber holding the raw plant material. The steam causes small sacs containing essential oil to burst. The oil is then carried by the steam out of the chamber and into a chilled condenser, where the steam once again becomes water. (Hydro-distillation is a similar process where the plant material is boiled, with the resultant steam being captured and condensed). The oil and water are then separated; the water, referred to as a 'hydrosol', can be retained as it will have some of the plant essence. Rose hydrosol, for example, is commonly used for it's mild antiseptic and soothing properties, as well as it's pleasing floral aroma.

A number of factors determine the final quality of a steam distilled essential oil. Aside from the plant material itself, most important are time, temperature and pressure, and the quality of the distillation equipment. Essential oils are very complex products; each is made up of many, sometimes hundreds, of distinct molecules which come together to form the oil's aroma and therapeutic properties. Some of these molecules are fairly delicate structures which can be altered or destroyed by adverse environmental conditions. So, much like a fine meal is more flavorful when made with patience, most oils benefit from a long, slow 'cooking' process. The temperature of the extraction chamber cannot be too high, lest some components of the oil be altered or destroyed.The same is true of the chamber's pressure. Lavender essential oil, for example, should not be processed at over 245 degrees F and three pounds per square inch of pressure (3 psi). Higher temperatures and/or pressures result in a 'harsh' aroma – more chemical than floral – and lessen the oil's therapeutic effects. Also, the extraction period must be allowed to continue for a certain period of time in order to flush ALL the oil's components from the plant, as some are released more quickly than others. Despite the drawbacks of aggressive processing, high temperatures and pressures are often used to produces large quantities of oil in a short period of time. These oils are usually destined for use in cosmetic and processed food manufacturing, but are sometimes sold to final consumers as essential oils for use in aromatherapy. These oils will be less expensive, but are of limited therapeutic value, and the difference is apparent when the aromas are compared side-by-side. Absolutes Some plants, and particularly flowers, do not lend themselves to steam distilling. They are too delicate, or their fragrance and therapeutic essences cannot be completely released by water alone. These oils will be produced as 'absolutes' – and while not technically considered essential

oils they can still be of therapeutic value. Jasmine oil and Rose oil in particular are delicate flowers who's oils are often found in 'absolute' form. The processing of an absolute first involves the hydrocarbon solvent extraction of a 'concrete' from the plant material, a semi-solid mixture of typically 50% wax and 50% volatile oil. The concrete is again processed using ethyl alcohol (the same alcohol found in beer, wine, etc.) in which the wax is only slightly soluble. The volatile plant oil separates into the alcohol and this mixture is removed. The alcohol is then evaporated and the result is an almost pure plant extract – depending on the care taken in the evaporation process, sometimes 2% or less of the ethyl alcohol may remain. The use of solvents in the extraction process notwithstanding, absolutes can have incredibly deep and complex aromas. CO2 Distillation Explained Carbon Dioxide and 'Supercritical' Carbon Dioxide extraction are the latest technologies in distilling essential oils at low temperatures. Both methods involve the use of carbon dioxide as the 'solvent' which carries the essential oil away from the raw plant material. The lower pressure CO2 extraction involves chilling carbon dioxide to between 35 and 55 degrees F, and pumping it through the plant material at 1000 psi. The carbon dioxide in this condition is condensed to a liquid. Supercritical CO2 extraction (SCO2) involves carbon dioxide heated to 87 degrees F and pumped through the plant material at around 8,000 psi – under these conditions, the carbon dioxide is likened to a 'dense fog' or vapor. With release of the pressure, the carbon dioxide escapes in its natural gaseous form, leaving the pure essential oil behind. Supercritical distillation has become the more common of the CO2 methods, though these oils are stilled labeled CO2distiled or CO2 extracted. These carbon dioxide methods have a couple of advantages: Like steam distillation, there are no solvent residues left behind, and the resultant product is perfectly pure. Like cold pressing, there is no heat applied to the plant material or essential oil to alter it in any way. The oil produced is very accurate with respect to the original state of the plant. CO2 distillation produces the most therapeutic essential oil for some plants, yet not others. It is highly beneficial for resins such as Frankincense and Myrrh, as more of the larger molecules - considered to have important healing properties - are brought into the essential oil. 'Spice' oils like Ginger, Black Pepper and Clove are more rich, with a bit more 'zing' or 'effervescence' to them. Many common oils are still best steam distilled; German Chamomile for example, only produces its naturally anti-inflammate component of chamulzine when distilled by steam. We select the best distillation method of each oil to offer you the greatest therapeutic effects. Cold Pressing Finally, there is the 'cold pressing' of citrus oils from the peels of fruit, as is done with Bergamot oil, Orange oil , Lemon oil , and the like. This method involves the simple pressing of the rind at about 120 degrees F to extract the oil. Little, if any, alteration from the oil's original state occurs – these citrus oils retain their bright, fresh, uplifting aromas like that of smelling a wonderfully ripe fruit.

So What Makes The Best Essential Oil? CO2's, with some obvious advantages, are not always the best choice for a particular need. They still are the most expensive, despite their higher yields. The resultant product differs slightly compared to one produced another way – the oils produced by steam distillation of some plants may sometimes be found to have a more agreeable aroma. Patchouli oil, for example, seems to benefit from the steam distillation process by becoming a little warmer and richer. Many other essential oils are quite effectively produced via steam distillation, with little alteration from the original plant state. Oils from other plant species do seem more 'complete' with CO2 processing, with Frankincense oil and most of the 'spice' oils being good examples where a little something special is present in the aroma. This likely translates to greater therapeutic properties. Producing essential oils of aromatherapeutic grade is skill requiring years of experience. It takes the work of a dedicated artesian at every step, from growing and harvesting to fine-tuning the distillation process, to produce a truly fine oil. The making of a fine essential oil relies far more on knowledge and experience than it does on the particular extraction method. There are, however, legitimate reasons to select one distillation method over another – some plants simply require a particular process to produce a fine oil, and the oil needed for a particular application may only be made by one process. In the end, as is often the case in aromatherapy, your own sense of smell can tell you which oil will work best for you.

Essential Oils for the Home: The Basic Care Kit Essential Oils for the Home Medicine Chest Essential oils provide a fantastic natural alternative to common ailments we see at home. The actions of essential oils are broad, ranging from topical antiseptics and anti-inflammatories to analgesics, digestive system tonics, and anti-depressants. While essential oils should not be a substitute for professional medical care, they can be successfully employed for many minor complaints, and as adjuncts to other therapies. Here we will have a brief look at ten essential oils which may comprise the ‘basic home care kit’. While by no means exhaustive, this list will go a long way to providing effective (and often pleasant!) treatments for you and your family for things like cuts and scrapes, sunburn, digestive troubles, stress related conditions and more. In the second article, we will cover specific applications and uses of each oil. Oil #1: Tea Tree Essential Oil

When first examined for it’s antiseptic properties, Tea Tree essential oil was found to be 100 times more powerful than carbolic acid – the medical standard at the time. Tea tree has an extremely broad range of antibiotic, antiviral and antifungal properties that have been confirmed by modern scientific research. Often used topically on small wounds, Tea Tree is also commonly found in oral hygiene preparations, and can also be effectively employed for Candida, athlete’s foot and acne, among other things. Oil #2: Lavender Essential Oil Lavender has often been called the ‘medicine chest in a bottle’ for its broad range of applications. Every home should keep Lavender on hand, even if no other oil is used, as it is so very effective on burns. It’s anti-inflammatory action is responsible for the beginnings of modern aromatherapy, as Dr. Jean Valnet discovered Lavender’s healing properties after being burned in a laboratory accident. Lavender is considered to speed wound healing and reduce scarring. The oil is also pleasantly calming, and can be used to reduce stress in a variety of situations – a commonly used technique is to apply Lavender oil ‘neat’ (undiluted) to the soles of the feet of patients recovering from almost any ailment. Oil #3: Chamomile Essential Oil Ah, the great tension reliever, Chamomile oil. This extremely gentle essential oil is useful for a wide variety of nervous conditions, and is often indicated for cases of stress in children (including teething and general ‘crankiness’). Rubbing into the solar plexus is a commonly used application if that is where one tends to ‘hold tension’. Chamomile essential oil is available in to varieties, German or Blue Chamomile and Roman Chamomile. The Roman variety is most often used for stress relief, whereas the German variety has the added bonus of being an extremely effective anti-inflammatory. Oil #4: Peppermint Essential Oil An excellent digestive tonic, Peppermint essential oil can sooth many stomach complaints. For the traveler, it’s effectiveness on calming motion sickness can be of great help. Further, at least eight controlled studies have shown Peppermint oil to be effective in reducing symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome, a painful condition of the intestines. Beyond it’s support of the digestive system, Peppermint is delightfully stimulating to the mind, brightening and sharpening mental focus. Finally, Peppermint is considered by some to be a more effective insect repellent than citronella when used on the body (rather than in the surrounding air). Oil #5: Eucalyptus Essential Oil Another essential oil with a broad range of properties, Eucalyptus is most often used for respiratory conditions, being useful in clearing congestion with coughs and colds. However, it’s effects are certainly not limited to the airways – because of it’s broad range of effects, it has been called the aromatherapists ‘designer oil’.

Eucalyptus oil can cool the body in Summer (or due to fever – use in a compress), and support the immune system in Winter. Diffusing Eucalyptus oil can kill most staphylococcus bacteria, again being supportive of bronchial infections. It is considered equally effective in cases of cystitis, candida, and sunburn, to name a few, as well as being an insect repellent. Oil #6: Geranium Essential Oil Geranium (sometimes known as ‘Geranium Rose’) works wonderfully on both physiological and psychological levels. It’s floral aroma is brightening and uplifting, while also working as a sedative. Malte Hozzel has made this statement regarding this oil : "Geranium’s vital, sensual presence is not subtle, but direct & unavoidable, making it one of the oils of choice for aphrodisiac qualities. (Geranium Essential Oil) inspires natural beauty & enjoyment, uplifts instantly & "tonifies" the mind & intellect in a powerful, nearly demanding attitude. Mobilizing hidden creative & emotional reserves, helping us to rise to our own earthly & spiritual identify. A fiery beauty for the spells of all worlds." Particularly noted for it’s effect on female physiologic conditions, Geranium oil can be effective for menopausal problems, uterine and breast complaints. Oil #7: Rosemary Essential Oil Rosemary essential oil is an effective physical and mental stimulant, whether used in a diffuser or in a morning bath. It’s slightly spicy, rather than floral aroma, has a warming effect particularly useful for arthritic joints and other muscular complaints. It also has a long history of treatment for colds and flu – Rosemary was a component of ‘Four Thieves Vinegar’, which robbers rubbed upon their bodies to prevent infection when up to no good during the plague years of the middle ages. Also, Rosemary is the essential oil most often associated with improving hair growth in cases of Alopecia. Oil #8: Thyme Essential Oil Thyme oil is a powerful antiviral, antibiotic, antiseptic and diuretic, though it should be employed with great care. There are many types of Thyme oil available, but only the ‘linalol’ chemotype is appropriate for use with children; all varieties should be diluted prior to topical application. Given the precautions, Thyme can be a first line of defense in cases of flu, being used in a room diffuser. It also supports elimination of toxic wastes from the body (particularly noted for excessive uric acid), and it’s warming quality can eliminate mucous and phlegm. It’s application for the digestive system is that of a powerful anti-parasitic, and for the muscular system, it can be helpful for rheumatic aches and pains. Thyme oil may also be supportive in cases of hair loss. Oil #9: Lemon Essential Oil A recent study on test-taking college students showed the diffusion of Lemon oil into a room improved test scores more than any other oil. In addition to it’s mind-

brightening qualities, it can also disinfect room air and act as a natural deodorant. Lemon has been noted to support liver function, and is also commonly used to assist in weight loss and cellulite reduction. In blends, lemon adds a pleasant top note, and can create a synergistic effect with other oils. Finally, Lemon oil is commonly used as both a fragrance and flavoring agent. Oil #10: Clove Essential Oil The power of Clove essential oil is noted upon the first sensing of the aroma – it is quite strong, sharp and earthy. Clove oil has been found to be the strongest antioxidant of any essential oil, and is a component of ‘longevity’ formulas. It is also an extremely potent antibacterial, effective against a broader range of microbes than any other oil except perhaps Oregano – Clove oil has even been employed to sterilize surgical instruments. Clove also has analgesic properties, and can be used to temporarily reduce the pain of toothache. Clove oil (or ground cloves) is also a component of Dr. Huda Clark’s anti-parasite protocol, helping eliminate parasites from one’s digestive system. This is a very powerful oil which should be diluted to 1% or less for topical application. So, there we have a possible ‘top ten’ essential oils for the home medicine chest, a selection with an extremely broad range of uses for common ailments seen in a family setting. It is important to note that all essential oils are powerful, and they should be treated with caution and respect. Always refer to a trusted source before making specific applications of any oil, as many can be irritating or possibly toxic if used incorrectly. To assist you in using these oils in your home, we will examine more specific uses of each essential oil in part II of this article (coming soon). This will assist you in using these wonderful medicines of nature for you and your family. Tarah Michelle Cech is a naturopath, and owner of Ananda Apothecary. She employs essential oils in her professional practice, finding them a safe and enjoyable component of nature's healing systems.

Essential Oils for Relieving Depression The Wonderous Creations of Plants A fantastic and mysterious relationship is continuously unfolding between plants and their surroundings. These organic green machines are ceaselessly performing a glorious alchemy with water, soil, air and sunlight. The nearly infinite possible combinations of plant genetics and environmental conditions on the face of the earth have allowed for an almost immeasurable diversity of alchemal floral expression, resulting in a vast array of natural botanical materials. These range from simple staple foodstuffs to gourmet fruits and vegetables, from rich exotic

spices to effective medicinal herbs, and from enchanting natural perfumes to complex therapeutic essential oils. Mankind is reaching ever further into the jungles and rainforests, knowing that nature is the true master of creation in these fields. Plants as Medicines The line between food-plants and medicinal herbs is a fuzzy one. Science regularly reports newfound medicinal effects in plants once taken for granted; many fruits once thought quite plain contain some of the world's most potent anti-cancer agents. The same goes for teas - green tea is one of the most potent anti-oxidants known - and spices - cinnamon may prevent the onset of debilitating diabetes - and this list continues to grow. This same lack of distinction exists between natural fragrances and therapeutic essential oils. The oil of a rose, laden with Citronellol, does triple duty as a perfume, an effective agent against the herpes simplex virus, and an uplifting aromatic that can help one open emotionally after a traumatizing experience. Alternative Therapies The use of so-called 'alternative' therapies is on the rise; more individuals are turning to the wisdom of nature for assistance for all types of ailments, both physical and psychological. Interestingly, the source of most ills, from a naturopathic point of view, is being out-of-balance with nature. Eating unnatural things, following unnatural cycles,and living in unnatural environments. Lack of balance with the earth, from which we are made and upon which we live, leads to 'dis-ease' in our bodies and minds. As plants have created their wondrous botanical materials in a process guided by the rhythms of the heavens and earth, we may look to 'plant wisdom' to lead our way back into balance. Depression and Balance A depressed emotional state is a common reasons for using complementary and alternative therapies today. A wide range of psychological, physical, and energetic issues can lead to feelings of depression and a pervasive outlook of negativity. Moreover, once in a state of depression, patterns can arise that make relief all the more difficult to find. The use of essential oils for uplifting the psyche and spirit is becoming more widespread because of the oils' broad and dramatic effects. While the oils themselves may not directly affect the underlying cause of depression, they may help individuals break free from depressive cycles – they may provide the impetus to 'get off the couch', so to speak, and begin creating long lasting change. Many natural healers believe depression to be a result of, like many other ills, of being out of balance; being unable to 'synch up' with the natural state of harmony that permeates the universe. For relieving this is-harmony, aromatherapy can be a very powerful means to infuse one's body and mind with the most concentrated, sublime botanicals nature has to offer. The Magnificent Olfactory Sense

In humans, the olfactory (sense of smell) region is an area of about 2 and a half square centimeters, and is located in each of the two nasal cavities between and below the eyes. Containing approximately fifty million primary sensory receptor cells, this region is highly intricate, being 10,000 times more perceptive than the sense of taste. When compared to sight, we find that olfaction is more complex – it is able to distinguish a nearly infinite number of element compounds at very low concentrations. In order to perceive the visible spectrum, humans use only three types of photoreceptors; in contrast, the sense of smell relies on several hundred distinct classes of receptors. The Direct Effect on the Brain Modern research has shown natural plant oils stimulate multiple regions in the brain, including those controlling endocrine, immune, and limbic (emotional center) functions. Essential oils have a direct and profound effect on the deepest levels of the body, emotions, and psyche. Through inhalation, essential oils have a strong and immediate influence. Passing through the capillary beds of the sinuses and activating the olfactory nerves, volatile plant oils enter the brain, producing direct and powerful systemic effects – the most immediate being on the emotions. Our emotions and our sense of smell have very strong ties – perhaps more than with any other of the other four senses. Oils in Traditional Medicine Systems In both Naturopathy and Ayurvedic Medicine (The Science of Life), essential oils are considered to enhance the flow of prana (essential life force), enhance and nourish ojas (sustaining energy and immunological essence), and brighten tejas (clarity and mental luminosity). In Traditional Chinese Medicine, essential oils in general are medicines for the Shen, the spiritual essence that resides in the heart and guides and governs consciousness. Used consciously, essential oils powerfully enhance positive mental and emotional states. Further, the medicinal properties of essential oils, through their ability to support physiological healing, can also be of great benefit to the heart and mind. A Korean study on the effect of aromatherapy on pain in patients with arthritis found that receiving massage with lavender, marjoram, eucalyptus, rosemary, and peppermint oils significantly decreased both the pain AND mental depression levels. Essential Oils for Uplifting the Spirit Following are some oils that have a reputation for up-lifting Shen, enhancing prana, nourishing ojas, and brightening tejas - combinations that may have marked effects on symptoms of depression. These oils can be used alone or in combination in a nebulizing diffuser (producing a fine mist of oils for inhalation), or in aromatherapy massage, thereby inhaled and absorbed through the skin concurrently. Bergamot (pressed from the peels of bitter oranges) has a strong reputation for its ability to gently uplift. In terms of Chinese medicine, this is a direct result of its

smoothing the flow of Liver-Qi ('Chi' or Life Force), the liver being thought of as the seat of the eternal soul. Bergamot combines the ability to both relax the nerves and refresh the Spirit; it is suitable for many types of depressive states. Neroli (from the flower of bitter oranges), like Bergamot, regulates the Qi - and like Jasmine flower oil, comforts the mind and heart. Neroli is called for at a core level, for the type of depression that comes from nervous and emotional exhaustion. Neroli uplifts the mind and Spirit with its potential to nourish and unify. Neroli assists in retrieving and releasing repressed emotions, with potential to nourish and unify a fragmented psyche. Neroli is specifically indicated for individuals who, in order to escape from emotional pain and suffering, cut themselves off from their feelings and senses. The Chamomiles (German and Roman) are wonderful oils to use when the depression manifests in a moody, irritable, dissatisfied outward expression associated with stagnant Liver-Qi. These flower oils are earthy, rich, and grounding with subtle uplifting qualities. When depression is of a Fire (overly aggressive) nature, it often involves an imbalance of joy and love - the root emotions of the heart and mind. Joy is an extension of Shen’s (spiritual essence's) innate sense of harmony and perfection, an experience of emotional and spiritual well-being. The depression that afflicts the heart and Shen involves a loss of one’s natural sense of joy. There is often an accompanied lack of enthusiasm and interest as well as an inability to become inspired. Rose otto – steam distilled rose essential oil – or Rose Absolute may have a profound effect on this state. Rose is thought the premier heart opening aromatic, bringing joy, uplifting and restoring balance. What follows are a few recipes for uplifting and releasing depressed emotional states – use your intuition to find the right one. Often, the single essential oil or blend you find most attractive will be the one that serves you best. Experiment, explore, and have fun with these fantastic gifts of nature. These blends may be used in a diffuser or candle lamp, unless where a carrier oil is indicated – blends with carriers are intended specifically for aromatherapy massage (self-massage is very effective, as well as a simple massage from a friend or loved one). For opening the heart: 1 part Rose 3 parts Sandalwood 1 part Sweet Orange or Bergamot 3 parts Jasmine 1 part Ylang Ylang 1 part Sandalwood Brightening, refreshing and uplifting:

3 parts Bergamot 1 part Ylang Ylang 1 part Grapefruit 2 parts Bergamot 2 parts Clary Sage 1 part Frankincense 3 parts Bergamot or Sweet Orange 2 parts Clary Sage 2 parts Frankincense 1 part Lemon 1 part either Jasmine or Neroli Nourishing: 1 part (Roman) Chamomile 1 part Vanilla 10 parts Carrier oil of choice Floral and earthy (uplifting and softening to Spirit): 1 1 1 1

part part part part

Neroli Vanilla Orange Sandalwood

When feeling bitter and brooding: 1 part Chamomile 1 part Bergamot 1 part Helichrysum

Eucalyptus Essential Oil The History, Sources, And Medicinal Effects of Eucalyptus Essential Oils It is said that the Eucalyptus tree is one of the most useful trees in the world. Belonging to the Myrtacae family (the same family as Tea tree), the name Eucalyptus means ‘well-covered’ which refers to the little cap that covers the flower before budding. A tall, water-loving tree, Eucalyptus is one of the fastest growing trees in the world, reaching heights of between 300- 480 feet. Growing in damp marshy areas on moist land and clays Eucalyptus is often found in hilly country or moist valleys in deep rich soils.

Early Uses Native of Australia, where it was regarded as a general ‘cure-all’ by the Aborigines, there are over 300 species and 700 varieties of Eucalyptus. The trees have been used for everything from paper, to mulch, shade, fuel, hardwoods, wind breaking and malaria fighting. Its extensive root system absorbs vast amounts of water. It is due to this phenomenon that it has been intentionally planted in marshy, malaria infested areas in an attempt to dry up and purify the soil and air. The German botanist and explorer, Baron Ferdinand Von Muller suggested that the fragrance of the trees might prove antiseptic. It was in 1855 that the French government sent seeds to Algeria and consequently many of the disease ridden areas were converted to healthy dry ones. Eucalyptus oil was in huge demand during World War 1, as it was used to control a meningitis outbreak and for the influenza of 1919. Today the major eucalyptus producing countries include China, Spain, Portugal, South Africa, Russia, and Chile. With over 50 pounds of plant material needed for one pound of oil, Eucalyptus was first distilled in 1788, when Doctors White and Cossiden used its oil in treating problems of the chest. The first works of the antiseptic and bacterial properties of the oil were published in Germany by Doctors Cole and Homeyer. They classified it as being "sudorific, a stimulant anticatharral and astringent". It was prescribed for all respiratory system conditions such as asthma, bronchitis, coughs, and flu. Extracted from Eucalyptus peperita the original oil introduced to Europe was was called 'Sydney peppermint' and quickly became popular. Traditional household remedies use both the leaves and oils for relief from respiratory ailments, feverish conditions, as well as for skin problems like burns, ulcers, and wounds.

Eucalyptus Essential Oil Varieties Eucalyptus radiata is widely considered one of the most important sources of eucalyptus as well as one of the most fragrant of all eucalyptus oils. Also known as narrow-leafed and peppermint gum, it has a fresh and somewhat moderate scent with light citrus overtones. Radiata has strong antibacterial, antiviral, and expectorant properties and is often used in diffusers as well as topically for flues, sinusitis, and bronchitis. Historically used for its powerful natural medicinal qualities. Eucalyptus globulus (also known as Tasmanian blue) is both an antiseptic and an analgesic. Interestingly, when seen from an aerial view the blue gum forest emits an ethereal blue haze. A refreshing scent with rich cineole-rich slightly camphoraceous but typical eucalyptus smell, Blue gum blends well with other essential oils such as Lavender, Lemongrass, Melissa, Pine, Tea tree, and Juniper. Medicinal Effects

Eucalyptus is one of the most universal and versatile of essential oils. Some of its many properties include analgesic, antiseptic, deodorant, expectorant, and vermifuge (anti-parasitic). The active therapeutic and principal constituent of the medicinal oils is 1,8-cineole. Eucalyptus has a predominately stimulating effect on the nervous system and therefore should assist those suffering from depression and lethargy. Known as a ‘stimulating’ expectorant due to its invigorating action on the mucus membranes, it is widely considered an effective remedy for respiratory ills. Additionally Eucalyptus is used to relieve muscular aches and pains, in particular those of a ‘cold’ nature such as rheumatic pains. According to Traditional Chinese Medicine, Eucalyptus is an exceptional remedy for clearing lung-phlegm and wind-heat. It is classified as a tonic of the lung Qi and it’s used to enhance the breathing function thus making it beneficial during the onset of flu or fever, sore throat, the common cold, sinusitis, and bronchitis. Various modes of application include topical such as massage, compress, bath, and skin care as well as direct inhalation, diffuser, and vaporizer. World renowned medical aromatherapist, Dr. Kurt Schnaubelt suggests that aromatherapy is ‘ideally suited to the treatment of viral infections because of its connection with the immune system and mind/body connection’. A very cleansing plant, Eucalyptus is considered an herb of purification. Associated with the moon and feminine energy, Eucalyptus is both cool and moist by nature and is thought to help those who are vulnerable to becoming ill due to emotional stress or anxieties. The psychological properties of Eucalyptus oils are closely related to the action of the lungs which are associated with grief and depression. The aroma helps to dispel melancholy, while lifting the spirits and restoring vitality, harmony, and balance. Eucalyptus may also be useful on a subtle level to cleanse any place where conflict or negative energies have collected. Although Eucalyptus is considered generally safe for aromatherapy, it is prudent to avoid use in infants. Today Eucalyptus Oil continues to be a familiar ingredient in chest rubs, general antiseptics, decongestants, cough remedies and muscle and joint ointments. When used externally, Eucalyptus is both non-toxic and nonirritating and is a must for every natural first aid kit and home medicine chest.

Essential Oil Basics Part I: Introduction WHERE DO ESSENTIAL OILS COME FROM ? The odoriferous substances (Essential oils) themselves are formed in the chloroplasts of the leaves where they combine with glucose to form glucides and are then circulated around the plant in this form. At certain times of the day or year they are stored in particular parts of the plant. In some plants, the essential oils are produced by the secretory tissues, and in others they are combined with glycosides, and are therefore not detectable until the

plant is dried or crushed, e.g.: Valerian Essential oils are considered to be an important part of the plant's metabolism: some have hormonal activity and others are a stage in some other process, e.g.: the oil found in the rind of the orange is a stage in Vitamin A synthesis. Essential oils can be found in almost any part of the plant, in differing concentrations, depending on the plant itself, the time of day and year. They may be found in the roots (e.g.: Calamus and Valerian), flowers (e.g. Lavender, Rose,), bark (e.g. Sandalwood, Cedarwood), fruits (e.g.: Lemon, Cardamom, Orange), berries (e.g. Juniper), leaves (e.g. Thyme, Rosemary, Sage). Plants which contain essences must be picked at the correct time of day and in the correct season, and in particular weather conditions in order that a maximum yield of the essential oils can be obtained, and of course, as with all medicinal or nutritional plants, soil conditions, and climatic conditions will also dictate the quality of the oils obtained. Heavy, concentrated oils are called ABSOLUTES e.g.: Rose, Jasmine, Oils which are solid at room temperature and which must be warmed before use are called BALSAMS, e.g.: Benzoin and Camphor. HOW DO ESSENTIAL OILS WORK? Essential oils are known to have an effect on us in three different, but overlapping, ways. a) On the physical body, both locally and systemically, via the lymphatic and blood circulation. b) On the mind and emotions via the Sense of Smell and the Limbic System. c) On the “Etheric Energy System” of the body via the energy vibration of the individual oils themselves. The Way Essential Oils Effect the Physical Body When Essential oils are applied to the surface of the body, either via Massage, Baths, Compresses, Creams or Lotions, they will have an effect locally (i.e. the site at which they are applied), and Systemically (i.e. throughout the body). The Systemic effect occurs when essential oils are absorbed through the skin into the Lymphatic Circulation, and they are then dumped from the Lymphatic circulation into the blood stream. Once the oils are circulating in the blood, they are carried to their TARGET ORGAN/S, where they exert a therapeutic effect on the specific tissues. Every Essential oil has its own Target Organ, e.g. Juniper oil targets the urinary tract and kidneys in particular, with secondary effects on the Digestive, Respiratory and Reproductive Systems. Chamomile Oil targets the Nervous System via which it can then exert a broad effect on many other body Systems, like the Digestive Tract for example.

Even when Essential oils are inhaled only, say in the form of a steam inhalation for a cold or as a fumigator for a background “psychological” effect, the oils will be absorbed across the mucous membranes of the Respiratory Tract and lungs into the blood stream, where once again, they can travel around the body very rapidly. If Essential Oils are taken orally, their absorption through the Mucosa of the stomach and into the blood is very rapid. Very few essential oils are actually ‘digested’, which is fortunate as their Therapeutic principles may well be altered if this were the case. The reason why Essential Oils behave in this manner in the body is because the molecules of which they are composed are organic molecules and very small indeed. Below are some of the more common Therapeutic Properties which can be obtained by using Essential Oils. SOME THERAPEUTIC PROPERTIES OF ESSENTIAL OILS 1. ANTISEPTIC All essential oils are to a greater or lesser extent ANTISEPTIC. This is one of their most important and valuable properties. This broad description of ANTISEPSIS includes anti viral, antifungal, anti-bacterial and general anti-microbial activity which is found in such oils as: Lemon, Thyme, Tea Tree, Garlic, Eucalyptus, Cinnamon, Pine, Lavender and Sandalwood. 2. ANTI-INFLAMMATORY Oils with this property help to ease inflammation. The symptoms of inflammation are typified by pain, redness, swelling, and partial or total loss of function of the tissue involved. Examples of oils with this property are Chamomile, Rose, Lavender, Sandalwood, Myrrh and Benzoin. 3. CYTOPHYLACTIC Restoration of tissue function and regeneration of cells is another outstanding property of essential oils. Oils such as Pine, Basil and Rosemary are known to restore function to the adrenal glands, Jasmine, Cypress, and Ylang Ylang restore function of reproductive endocrine glands, lavender and chamomile stimulate cell regeneration in the skin. 4. SEDATIVE Essential oils may also have a pronounced effect on the nervous system by producing relaxation, pain relief and relieving muscle spasm. Oils with these properties include Lavender, Neroli, Rose, Geranium and Ylang Ylang. However, the most outstanding property possessed by essential oils is their antiseptic/antigenetic properly. This is well documented in Dr Jean Valnet's book, "The Practice of Aromatherapy" and he discusses at length the effects of specific oils in relation to the control of

extremely virulent microbes like Meningitis bacteria, Golden Staphylococcus bacteria and typhoid bacteria. In your Reading for Week One, in the Chapter entitled "The Healing Power of Plants", from Valnet's book, there are extensive references to the many ways in which essential oils can affect the physical body. It is critical to your full understanding and appreciation of Essential Oil Therapy that you appreciate the ways in which essential oils can have both a healing and preventive role in diseases involving invasion of the body by microbes.

An Essential Oil Introduction II - Mind and Emotions The Way Essential Oils Effect the Mind and Emotions The Mind and Emotions, or rather the way we think and feel, are effected by essential oils via our sense of smell, as are all the odors we consciously and UNCONSCIOUSLY detect. The Sense of Smell forms the greater part of our Sense of Taste (note how your sense of taste and smell is affected when you have a head cold or blocked up nose. The sense of smell is also affected by pollution, smoking, trauma to the nose itself and a mucous forming diet). The sense of smell of our ancient ancestors was far superior to ours. They identified one another by smell as well as sight, and could even detect the usefulness of a plant by its smell. They also tracked animals by smell. The sense of smell helps us to distinguish between 'good' and 'bad' odors, which tell us if food is fit to be eaten or if there is disease or hygiene present. ODOURS & DISEASE A couple of hundred years ago, physicians would use the sense of smell as a diagnostic aid. Arthritis and rheumatism have an acid smell, a good midwife could tell a post-partum haemorrhage by the smell of blood passed, diabetes gives an acetone smell to the breathe and the urine, perspiration can give us clues as to the health of the kidneys and lymphatic system, the smell of faeces also can tell us the type of disease in the digestive tract. Natural medicine still uses this method of diagnosis. The human nose has the ability to distinguish many thousands of different odors, and the memory of these odors is stored deep in our sub-conscious minds. (See R. Tisserand 'The Art of Aromatherapy" pages 60-73). When we inhale air molecules which, are carrying the ‘odoriferous’ molecules of an essential oil, these molecules adhere to our Olfactory nerve endings in the back of

the nose Oil, producing stimulation of these nerve endings. Sensory stimulation of the Olfactory centre is by a relay of nerve impulses from the sensory nerve endings in the nose to the brain. This is a very rapid and direct pathway to the part of the Brain which directs, controls, interprets and responds to sensory input. This pathway is very different to sensory stimulation of the sensory nerves in the skin which is more complex, being transmitted from a sensory nerve ending to the spinal cord, to the brain, back down the spinal cord, down a motor nerve ending and then to the appropriate organ. For example when we touch a hot object, the heat affects the sensory nerve ending in say the finger. This nerve relays a message along the sensory nerve fiber to its root in the spinal cord. The impulse is carried to the brain. The brain says “ouch !!! that’s hot, take the finger off now”. This message is relayed down the spinal cord to the motor nerve root, and then to the appropriate muscle(s) organ(s) etc. to remove the finger from the hot object. As you will know from your own experience of touching something hot, there is often a time lag between touching the hot object and recognition of pain. With the Olfactory Nerve there is no relay station - stimuli goes straight to the part of Central Nervous System called the LIMBIC SYSTEM, and the response is instant. Furthermore, the message cannot be blocked by the conscious mind. The interesting and exciting aspect of this use of Essential Oil Therapy is that different essential oils produce different responses. Some affect the higher thought processes in the Cerebral Cortex by altering the electrical activity of different Cortical areas, and some affect the Hormone Producing cells in the Limbic System. These ‘Brain Hormones’ will then either effect the mental and emotional responses of the Brain itself, or will be released into the blood stream from where they may be carried to distant organs to produce the desired effect on the body chemistry. AROMATHERAPY & THE MIND Essential Oils for ANXIETY: Benzoin Oil, Chamomile Oil, Cypress Oil, Geranium Oil, Jasmine Oil, Lavender Oil, Marjoram Oil, Melissa Oil, Neroli Oil, Rose Oil, Sandalwood Oil, Ylang-Ylang Oil. Essential Oils for DEPRESSION: Basil Oil, Bergamot Oil, Chamomile Oil, Frankincense Oil, Geranium Oil, Jasmine Oil, Lavender Oil, Neroli Oil, Patchouli Oil, Peppermint Oil, Rose Oil, Sandalwood Oil, Ylang-Ylang Oil. Essential Oils for ANGER: Chamomile Oil, Melissa Oil, Rose Oil, Ylang-Ylang Oil. Essential Oils for APATHY:

Jasmine Oil, Juniper Oil, Patchouli Oil, Rosemary Oil. Essential Oils for CONFUSION: Basil Oil, Cypress Oil, Frankincense Oil, Peppermint Oil, Patchouli Oil. Essential Oils for DWELLING ON THE PAST: Benzoin Oil, Frankincense Oil. Essential Oils for FEAR: Basil Oil, Clary Sage Oil, Jasmine Oil, Juniper Oil. Essential Oils for GRIEF: Hyssop Oil, Marjoram Oil, Rose Oil. Essential Oils for HYPERSENSITIVE: Chamomile Oil, Jasmine Oil, Melissa Oil. Essential Oils for IMPATIENCE/IRRITABILITY: Chamomile Oil, Camphor Oil, Marjoram Oil, Frankincense Oil. Essential Oils for JEALOUSY : Rose Oil, Ylang Ylang Oil. Essential Oils for PANIC: Chamomile Oil, Clary Sage Oil, Jasmine Oil, Lavender Oil, Marjoram Oil, Melissa Oil, Neroli Oil, Ylang-Ylang Oil. Essential Oils for SHOCK: Camphor Oil, Melissa Oil, Neroli Oil . Essential Oils for SUSPICION: Lavender Oil, Rose Oil Essential Oils for EUPHORIA These oils stimulate the secretion of ENKEPHALINS from the THALAMUS to produce a euphoric effect and to lift or enhance the mood: Clary Sage Oil, Grapefruit Oil, Jasmine Oil, Rose Otto. Essential Oils as APHRODISIACS These oils stimulate the secretion of ENDORPHINS from the PITUITARY GLAND to produce emotional warmth, and sex hormone activity. Clary Sage Oil, Jasmine Oil, Patchouli Oil, Ylang-Ylang Oil. Essential Oils as REGULATORS These oils stimulate the secretion of VARIOUS HORMONAL SUBSTANCES from the HYPOTHALAMUS to regulate 'moods' and hormonal secretions. Bergamot Oil, Frankincense Oil, Geranium Oil, Rosewood.

Essential Oils as MEMORY/MENTAL STIMULANTS These oils stimulate the AMYGDALA AND HIPPOCAMPUS in the brain which are associated with 'higher' brain functions, of thought and memory. Black Pepper Oil, Lemon Oil, Peppermint Oil, Rosemary Oil. Essential Oils as SEDATIVES These oils aid sleep, relax and lower hyperfunction in the body by stimulating the secretion of SERATONIN from the RAPHE NUCLEUS in the brain. Chamomile Oil, Lavender Oil, Marjoram Oil, Orange Blossom. Essential Oils as INVIGORATORS These oils increase energy and body functions by stimulating the secretion of NORADRENALINE from the LOCUS CERULEUS of the brain Cardamom Oil, Juniper Oil, Lemongrass Oil, Rosemary Oil.

An Essential Oil Introduction III - Esoteric and Spiritual Applications The third and final part of this three part series on Aromatherapy and essential oils deals with the more esoteric aspects of essential oils. There is a long history of essential oils being used for spiritual purposes and in rituals. Incense is just one example of essential oils being used in religious ceremonies and for inducing a 'spiritual' environment. The Way Essential Oils Effect the Etheric Body or Psycho-spiritual Level The historical use of aromatic oils and resins goes back many thousands of years in human history and traverses many cultures and civilizations on our planet. In China, incense was burned to purify the atmosphere and rid the environment of evil spirits, in India, incense was and is used in all temples of all persuasions to sanctify the devotions; in Mexico, incenses were used in rituals to induce trance-like states in the participants to make them more accepting in their role of living sacrifice to the Gods; in Northern Europe the Druids used incenses which were sacred to the Earth Mother; the Greeks and Romans also used essential oils and fragrant herbs in all aspects of their daily lives, and many of their practices were learned from the Egyptians and Mesopotamians who were without doubt, the absolute masters in the Art of “Aromatherapy”. The first people to dispense aromatics as medicines in Ancient Egypt were the priests - they were the first Aromatherapists. As the use of aromatic substances became more common, they were also used by the physicians. At Heliopolis, the city dedicated to Ra the Sun-God, incense was burned 3 times a day: sunrise, noon, and sunset. This incense was called Kuphi or Kyphi and contained 16 ingredients including cassia, Calamus, Citronella, Cinnamon,

Peppermint, Pistacia, Juniper, Acacia, Henna, Cypress, Myrrh, Raisins, Frankincense, and Morning Glory. Aromatherapy was used in the healing temples in both Egypt and later in Greece, which also incorporated the use of color healing utilizing solar light. Great glass windows of various colors were built in to the ceilings of these temples at specific points, corresponding with the journey of the sun across the sky. The patient was placed in the stream of colored light and incense was burned or oils applied to the patient as need dictated. This form of healing is called Heliotherapy. Even as recently as the Middle Ages in Europe, fragrant herbs were known to possess special healing properties by virtue of their fragrances, and were burned in the streets to counteract the odor and ill effects of the poor hygiene of the times. During the time of the Great Plague this method was also used to anticepticise the air. essential oils, via their own innate LIFE FORCE ENERGY , can help change energy imbalances in our Aura (Etheric body). They can adjust the way in which we perceive, feel and think about both ourselves and our environment working from the Spiritual Level ‘downwards’. They can help us have a more positive, relaxed or energetic mood, help us to concentrate better, develop our "psychic awareness”, and act as a bridge to help us access “deeper” or “higher” levels of consciousness. This function of essential oils overlaps with the effects oils have on the Brain, but it must be remembered that the Nervous and Hormonal Systems are the physical “translators” of the Etheric dimensions. The use of Aromatic plants as Incense in religious and ritual practices is based on this knowledge. Incense purifies, acts as a libation or gesture of respect to higher intelligences and gives us a "doorway" for entry into the Astral realms. It is believed that essential oils, when used in the form of “incensing”, are signals to those other dimensions where we find our Guardian Angels, Spirit Guides, Gods and Goddesses and states of pure “Cosmic Consciousness” and form a means whereby we can show our intention or willingness to open our consciousness to those realities. The result being that these Beings are able to communicate with us or through us more easily. By developing our sensitivity to other levels of energy/being and other levels of our own consciousness, we are better able to develop our healing powers and accelerate our own personal/spiritual growth. Because we are conditioned from birth to relate primarily to the physical plane of existence we tend to have some degree of difficulty in shifting to the spiritual levels without some assistance. essential oils can help us with this. THE SENSE OF SMELL AND ETHERIC ENERGY

From an energy point of view, the sense of smell relates to the Element called AKASHA or ETHER. This is the Universal and All-Pervading element, the Element of Spirit, and it has the ability to transform itself into anyone of the forms of Elemental Energy. It is also closely related to the Element of Air, which is related to the sense of taste. Man's sense of smell is not as acute as that of a dog or a moth, however, it is never the less quite acute, and man is capable of distinguishing many thousands of odors. The exact way in which odor perception takes place is still quite a mystery to medical science. There is sound knowledge of the structures involved in odor perception, but the function itself still has many unanswered questions. By developing the sense of smell we are provided with a means by which we may use essences and aromatic substances to create a mood, a feeling, an atmosphere, or change our state of being to one which is more in harmony with our True Selves, and which aids the development of our higher senses. Most people think of incense in the context of 'joss sticks'. To many people, incense is something that gives a nice fragrance to an environment and little more. But the act of burning incense is more than this, and fragrances have quite profound effects. Perfumes and aroma have a great power to influence the mind and to lift the consciousness. They can arouse memory and distant recollections, as well as soul memories (past lives). Use of incense sharpens the perception beyond the ordinary and encourages better powers of discrimination. When we decide to extend our consciousness we must first pass through the different layers of our own psychological makeup. ‘Incense’ helps to ease the passage through these layers of self to the Universal light, creating a link or channel between us and the formative energies of the Universe and our own Being. When essential oils, resins or gums are burned, their substance ‘etherealises’ and passes to the subtler planes opening the way for the return flow of energy. By being consciously aware of the incense or oil we are using, and by being aware of its properties, and in tune with our intention, we can work more effectively and more powerfully, whether it be in healing or meditation techniques. essential oils form a bridge commonly used by Auric Healers to set a communication link between the physical and etheric bodies. The radiations from natural aromatic substances also nourish our natural energies and spirit. Odors are known to give off vibrations which fit into the known electromagnetic scale and are thought to vibrate in the Infra-Red end of the color spectrum. This is also known as the "invisible colors'. Colors and odors are said to have a parallel, also odors and music, and odor and shape. The notes of the Diatonic Scale (A,G,C,B,D,F,) have been correlated to

odors, and various compounds in aromatic molecules are known to have certain shapes, e.g. round molecules tend to have a camphor-like smell, disc shapes to have a floral odor, and wedge shapes to have a Peppermint fragrance. These facts present a definite argument in favor of the ‘Vibration' theory, and the way odors have an effect on the "Sixth Sense”. Taking these correspondences a little further it is of interest to note that some essential oils are pigmented, which often relates to their therapeutic properties, for example: - Benzoin is red and is used to promote healing; - Bergamot is green and is used in the treatment of urinary tract disorders; - Lemon is yellow and is used in the treatment of the digestive system; - Chamomile is blue and is used against inflammation of the skin and mucous membranes of the body. These colors also have therapeutic applications in color therapy, in which red is considered an energizing and warming color, green is balancing and harmonizing, yellow stimulates the digestion, and blue is relaxing and cooling. YIN being those characteristics of passive, contracting, inwards looking, empty, dark, cold, moist, sedating, inhaling, venous blood, parasympathetic nervous system, fear, caution, and the color blue. YANG being those characteristics of active, outward going, expanding, opening, full, light, hot, dry, stimulating, arterial blood, sympathetic nerves, also anger, courage and the color red. The qualities of Yin and Yang represent the forces or energies of opposites in the natural world. There are 2 things to remember when using essential oils and aromatic substances in meditations and Psychic Healing: 1. Be aware of your breathing. This can be accomplished through the practice of simple breathing techniques, in which you can calm your thoughts and emotions by slowing and deepening your breathing cycle. 2.Choose oils which will enhance your experience and balance your energies. When using oils as ‘incense’, remember that the "incense" becomes charged with your personal energy. Purity of motive and purpose, and sincerity are essential requirements in the art of censing. Clearness of intention is also important.

Essential Oils for Emotional Wellbeing

Aromatics which include essential oils, perfume, centred candles and incense, have been used for centuries to affect the mind (and also, ultimately, the body) in a positive way. This practice finds its origins in religion and primitive beliefs. Aboriginal Australians burned the leaves of eucalyptus to fumigate an area from viruses. Aboriginal Americans use sage and cedar and the Slavs, such plants as sunflower, pine and garlic peels for the same purposes. This was done because occult powers were thought to be sensitive to fragrances and could protect against fever, sorcery, epidemics and demonic charms. Today scents are often used to calm, uplift or sedate a troubled mind. This is called the psyche-soma effect. The theory is that the bloodstream might absorb scents entering the nose and cause a chemical effect in the brain. Here is a list of common scents you can find in the form of incense, perfumes and oils that might help you to cope with certain unpleasant emotional states. Orange Essential Oil: In tenth century Europe, Arabia and China orange scents were used to aid with nervousness, epileptic fits, melancholia and depression. It helps one to relax, regenerate and calm down. It is comforting, refreshing uplifting and warming and is used by some to calm down hyperactive children. Patchouli Essential Oil: This "hippie scent', which originally came from India has been used since the 1800s has been used to treat headaches and nausea. It has an earthy, grounding quality that is excellent for those who feel spacey, dreamy and detached from their physical bodies. Mint: The Greeks and the Romans used mint to stimulate the circulation, the heart and boost intellect and memory. It is helpful for headaches and migraine. If you are dozy and have a big report or deadline, this is this scent you want to have wafting through the room. It has a soothing and stimulating effecton the brain. It is also has a long-standing reputation as an aphrodisiac. This includes both Peppermint Essential Oil and Spearmint Essential Oil. Vanilla: Made from the seedpods of orchids, vanilla is a warming, cheering scent that is good for depression, sorrow, and grief. Its effects are warming and uplifting. It also has a longstanding reputation as an aphrodisiac. Cedar Essential Oil: Cedar has a stimulating, elevating and opening effect on the mind and psyche. It helps relieve anxiety and quell anxiety, irritation and fear. Cedar is frequent mentioned in Biblical and Arabic texts as a fragrant wood that enhances "spiritual power." Lavender Essential Oil: Cultivated since ancient times, this classic floral is used to treat headaches, nervous tension, depression, sorrow and grief. It is also used to induce peaceful sleep and increase feelings of well being in general. Cinnamon Essential Oil: Cinnamon was brought to central Europe at the time of the crusade where it was used as an aphrodisiac and for heart problems. Cinnamon

is thought to be good for faintness, weakness, depression, nervous exhaustion and other stress related conditions. Eucalyptus Essential Oil: This Australian herb is thought to relieve blocked states of mind as well as balance out the emotions and relieve mood swings. It is good for sluggishness and the fresh aroma is thought to have a revitalising, stimulating effect on the nervous system as a whole. Frankincense Essential Oil: This scent, which is also known as olibanum finds its origins in Eygptian, Persian, Babylonian, Green, Roman and Christian culture. In aromatherapy it is currently used to relieve depression, poor memory and to strengthen the nerves. It is also used as a psychoactive substance to expand consciousness. Ginger Essential Oil: A stimulant and an aphrodisiac, ginger are considered to be a powerful nerve tonic that is good for exhaustion and metal fatigue. It has a comforting, warming and uplift effect on the mind and soul. Jasmine Absolute: This scent, which is known as the Queen of the Night in India because the scent of the flower is stronger at night, is thought to be a natural antidepressant. This sensual scent is thought to release inhibitions and liberate the imagination. It is used for depression, nervous exhaustion, apathy, indifference, listlessness, lack of confidence and impotence. Rose Absolute: Psychologically, the scent of rose has a powerful effect. It is used to increase concentration, regulate the appetite and overcoming obesity. It creates a feeling of calm, well-being and in some, even happiness. It is used to treat grief, sorrow, frigidity, jealousy, shock and depression.

The Anti-Viral Actions of Essential Oils Essential oils from many plant families have demonstrated antiviral properties in laboratory and real-world settings. Interestingly, different plant families exhibit varying degrees of effectiveness depending on the virus strain. This is due to the particular molecular structures found in each type of oil, which penetrate physical entities to varying degrees (different tissues, cell walls, mucous membranes, etc). The effect on each virus strain depends also on the virus structure (enveloped, non-enveloped, molecular symmetry, etc).

With this in mind, we've developed the Super Immune blend, specifically created as a potent, broad-spectrum antiviral formula. This, or any essential oils on this page can be therapeutically utilized with a Nebulizing Diffuser (to release the oils into your surrounding air), applied topically to lymph nodes (on the sternum, groin, neck and armpits) or massaged into the lymph/respiratory

meridians on the feet: the top and bottom of foot at the base of the toes (balls of the toes, and the tops of the feet in the same region). Many of the abstracts on Pub Med, the database of the National Institute of Health for peer-reviewed journal articles, describe essential oils' activity as an excellent preventative measure (see www.pubmed.gov): Use before exposure can lessen the potential of infection. This is the case for any type of virus, be it our 'regular' flu season in the U.S., or where one might be exposed to an uncommonly high infected population. In this case, some advanced practitioners would apply small amounts of oil several times a day to the neck and sternum, and may even ingest one or two drops of an anti-viral oil blend. Enveloped viruses are most sensitive to essential oils with a high amount of monoterpene alcohols (e.g. Linalool, present in Lavender, Coriander, Petitgrain and Thyme c.t. Linalool. Citronellol present in Geranium and Rose Otto; Geraniol present in Palmarosa; alpha-terpinol found in Eucalyptus Radiata, Niaouli and Ravensara; Terpinol-4 present in Tea Tree, Hyssop and Marjoram; and Menthol, found in Peppermint and Spearmint) and monoterpine phenols (e.g. Carvacrol in Oregano, and Thymol in both Thyme and Oregano). Influenza (Flu) viruses are Enveloped viruses. Non-enveloped, or 'naked' viruses are more sensitive to essential oils with a high content of terpenoid ketones (eg. Pinocamphone in Hyssop; Verbenone in Rosemary c.t. verbenone, Pinocarvone in Eucalyptus Globulus, and Thuja in Sage). (Note: Other oils and components have also demonstrated anti-viral effects; more constituents are described later in this article.) Certainly, one of the reasons for oils' effectiveness en vivo is their lipophillic character - essential oils are easily absorbed into mammalian tissues, where they may produce the greatest results. In fact, when studying the anti-viral effects of essential oils, researchers found that normal cells seemed to acquire a special resistance to viral penetration, though the mechanism for this effect is not yet known.

Essential Oils and Flu or Influenza Viruses It has been suggested by respected medical aromatherapists that essential oils have a powerful effect on the immune system, and can drastically alter our immune defenses to protect against the Influenza virus. The pH and electrical resistance in the 'host' (infected) cells and tissues can be altered in such a way as to be unfavorable to virus replication. Further, research has shown that many of these oils raise chemical markers in the body which indicate

positive stimulation of the immune system. Essential oils may provide a dualprotective effect: by increasing the strength and efficiency of our immune response AND by limiting the ability of viruses to replicate. Topical application of essential oils is highly recommended for this application. The oils are rapidly absorbed in the bloodstream, and can be found throughout the body in less than 20 minutes. An example may be the use of undiluted Niaouli, 20 drops or so, massaged into the sternum, or a 5% concentration of Thyme or Hyssop massaged onto the feet. Because of the great variety of viruses and types of infection, the laypractitioner is challenged by discerning the type of virus being addressed. One can either create a blend of anti-viral oils to 'cover all the bases', or instead use oils known for their immunostimulant action. Oils that are considered immunostimulants: Frankincense, Bergamot, Rosemary Cineol, Eucalyptus Radiata ~ in addition, it is known that immune system cells have receptors for neurotransmitters. The implication is that a positive mental state will result in a stronger immune system, so any aromatherapy that is uplifting to the individual is recommended.

Melissa and the Herpes Virus One of the Lamiaceae plants studied, Melissa (Melissa officinalis - also known as Lemon Balm), was shown particularly efficacious against the herpes virus (HSV). Doctor Dietrich Wabner, a professor at the Technical University of Munich, has even reported that application of Melissa oil led to a complete remission of HSV lesions. A cream medication for Herpes outbreaks, who's active ingredient is an extract of Melissa, is now sold in Germany under the name Lomaherpan. Use of Melissa essential oil itself may be just as effective - the oil can be applied directly to the lesions (or diluted to 10% in carrier if sensitivity is noted) to speed healing. Further occurrences can be prevented by applying oil to the area when sensations signal an eminent outbreak - repeating this protocol 3 or 4 times may cause total remission. Other essential oils found effective against the Herpes virus include hyssop, bergamot, eucalyptus, lemongrass and tea tree. There are more than one variant of each Herpes Simplex virus, and the condition of each individual's immune system varies greatly. If one oil does not seem to be effective, another may be called for, or a blend can be made.

Additional Antiviral Components of Oils

The list of essential oils exhibiting antiviral effects is extensive: Melissa (as above), tea tree, juniper, eucalyptus, thyme, palmarosa, lavender, rosemary, clove, laurel, cinnamon bark, anise, rose, lemongrass, geranium, neroli, bergamot, clary sage, and dill. The antiviral effect of an essential oil is due to particular components of the oil - some oils will work just as effectively on a particular infection as another, because they contain similar amounts of a certain component. The components of essential oils showing antiviral activity, and the oils in which they can be found, are as follows (from K. Schnaubelt, Ph.D. - Advanced Aromatherapy, p. 36): Anethol - found in Anise Alpha-Sabines - found in Tea Tree, Laurel, and other oils Beta-Caryophyllene - found in Lavender, Rosemary, Thyme Linalool, and other oils Carvone - found in Dill Cinnamic aldehyde - found in Cinnamon Bark Citral - found in Melissa, Lemongrass and other oils Eugenol - found in Clove Gamma-Terpinene - Found in Juniper, Eucalyptus, Niaouli, Tea Tree and other oils Linalyl acetate - found in Clary Sage, Lavender, Bergamot and other oils

Limited In-Vivo Data Good studies of application of these essential oils in cases of illness are difficult to come by, as infecting people with viruses in the laboratory to subsequently be treated with aromatics would be a difficult process at best. The oils and components above have mostly shown effectivenessin-vitro, though tests also indicate that the anti-viral effect should occur in-vivo as well. As with Melissa, it has been HSV that has been most thoroughly examined, because of the relative simplicity of doing so. But there is nothing particularly special about the herpes virus, and proper oil/pathogen paring should prove as effective. There are some noted case studies by professional aromatherapists. Of importance in these studies is the oil/symptom relationship. Essential oils from plants of the Myrtaceae family - notably Eucalyptus Radiata and Tea Tree - and Ravensara (also high in Eucalyptol) seem to have helped in cases with respiratory symptoms. For the lower respiratory tract, Hyssop decumbens (from the same plant family as Melissa) has been of interest. Essential oils for such cases may be used either in a diffuser, being taken at regular intervals, or through massage, diluted in a carrier oil.

Conclusion Because of the difficulty in many cases of illness in determining the exact virus type involved, more specific application cannot be given. Certainly, in cases of HSV, Melissa has been shown effective in a number of studies. For respiratory infections, Flu (Influenza), Eucalyptus and Ravensara have been used with success, and can be safely used as an adjunct to regular medical care. Hyssop is considered the single most broad-spectrum antiviral. All oils may support one's recovery on a physiologic level - essential oils also play a part in uplifting emotions, which may also speed healing, or at least improve mental outlook during the healing process. For such instances, one may simply find the essential oil or combination that one finds pleasant, calming, and/or uplifting. PLEASE NOTE: In no cases, however, should self-treatment with essential oils be used in place of professional medical care where signs/symptoms of infectious illness are present.

Using Essential Oil Antibacterial Properties Essential oils hold huge promise in the treatment of varieties infectious disease, and are most readily utilized by the home-practitioner in the form of antibacterials, also known as 'antiseptics'. An antiseptic is formally defined as 'a substance which reduces the possibility of infection when topically applied to living tissue'. Essential oils do this job exceptionally well, working powerfully and quickly to support the healing of cuts and abrasions through the prevention of infections. Many do a double-duty of actually stimulating tissue regeneration, while keeping the area free from potentially harmful microorganisms. Our best blend for potent antibacterial action is PuriFy, a combination of Clove, Rosemary, Eucalyptus, Lemon and Cinnamon. We use this blend all the time when in need of an immune system boost and protection, particlarly when traveling. We also use our Super Immune formula, more specifically an antiviral blend, also for the same purposes. Possibly the most effective single essential oil is the "new" Benchmark Thyme essential oil. Developed by a company in the UK, it is actually a combination of pure essential oil from four strains of Thyme herb, created specifically for combating MRSA, a serious, life-threatening bacterial infection. As

potent as it is, it still retains the gentleness of Thyme c.t. linalool, and can be applied directly to the skin in emergency situations. This is in contrast to Oregano and Cinnamon oils, which, while very potent antibacterials, can burn one's skin if applied at too high a concentration.

The Antibacterial Activity of Essential Oils Essential oils derive their antibacterial effect from their unique chemical makeup. Each single, pure essential oil consists of several, sometimes hundreds of distinct natural chemicals. Many of these have antimicrobial activity, and show synergistic effects; blends of the chemicals - as found naturally in the oils - can be more potent than any individual chemical alone. Many studies have shown that Carvacrol, the primary molecule found in oil of Oregano, has exceptionally strong antimicrobial activity. Further studies have noted the combination of Carvacrol and Thymol (a minor constituent of the same oil) to be more potent than either of them alone. So the next time you might reach for Neosporin or rubbing alcohol, you might consider that the remedies nature has made will likely work better. Research exists describing the effective, broad-spectrum of antibacterial action from essential oils, yet it is important to select the right oils in the right amounts. Topical application of Oregano may be the best solution for a case of stubborn nail fungus, yet this is far too intense for use on soft tissue of any kind, particularly for children. Often, home made formulas of a potent antiseptic with a known soothing oil can improve the overall effectiveness. Here we will briefly profile these highly-regarded oils, and look at some recipes and methods of application: Tea Tree (Maleluca alternafolia), Lavender (Lavendula angistifolia), Oregano (Oregano vulgar), Geranium (Geranium asperum) and Lemon. (Citrus limon). Tea Tree may be the hands-down most popular antibacterial essential oil. Tea Tree is a must for every natural first aid kit for the home. One of the safest and most effective ways of controlling minor infections is the immediate intervention action of Tea Tree. Tea tree's tolerability allows it to be used for longer periods of time without the slightest irritation. A drop on a Band-Aid can keep the reddening indication of infection from children's cuts and scrapes, and when combined with Lavender, makes a soothing rendition of popular over-the-counter antibacterials. Tea tree can also be used directly on minor wounds for those with less sensitive skin, and is highly useful as an acne treatment - some individuals can use it 'neat', while others should dilute it in Hazelnut oil (a 'non-oily' base oil that will not exacerbate an over-oily skin condition). Rosalina essential oil from Australia, is known as Lavender Tea Trea, having the properties of both oils. Lavender essential oil is an antibacterial and anti-inflammatory (AND stress reducer, especially for kids), and is helpful in the healing of small burns, cuts and insect bites. Lavender is a brilliant soothing agent for nearly every situation; its aroma will bring calm - a useful effect in many situations where an antiseptic is required. For healing unbroken skin such as burns, apply Lavender

'neat' to the wound several times a day; insect bites also get a 'neat' treatment. For cuts and scrapes, keep a one-to-one blend of Lavender and Tea Tree essential oils available for the best all-purpose antiseptic, anti-inflammatory and pain relieving solution. for the young ones. This soothing, antiseptic formula can be applied directly to the skin in small amounts, or applied to dressings before application. When more serious antibacterial action is necessary, natural medicine professionals turn to Oregano essential oil. Oregano's use in day-to-day applications are relatively limited due to its extreme potency - it should not be used topically except under the advice of a qualified practitioner, and then only in low dilutions for a limited period of time. Oregano is being studied extensively, however, for its potential use as a natural, effective antibiotic - particularly as many dangerous bacteria become resistant to pharmaceutical preparations. Oregano capsules are available at many health-food stores, and may be of use for systemic infections such as of the candida fungus or other bacteria; if you feel you or a family member could benefit from such immune system support, consult a qualified medical professional for advice. Also a highly-regarded antibacterial, but with gentler action and scent, Geranium essential oil is a very worthwhile addition to the home medicine chest. Geranium has exceptional healing properties for the skin, creating balance between oily and dry states, and is useful for both over-oily and over-dry conditions.. A non-drying, antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, astringent, and general tonic, Geranium is described in the aromatherapy literature as a cure for acne, general dermatitis and eczema. Geranium essential oil is one of the few that has been used successfully against the MRSA (Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus Aureus) bacteria in laboratory studies (see Pub Med for research abstracts on this suject). Geranium may also be used as a local antiseptic for small wounds; there are many Geranium varieties available, though the oil produced in Egypt may be the most potent antimicrobial, with a brilliant sweet and herbaceous aroma accompanying its healing effects. The 'old stand-by' of Lemon should not be overlooked when searching for ways to convert your home to a healthy 'green' lifestyle. Lemon oil, pressed from lemon peels, has historically been a component of many household cleaners and because of its efficacy, low-cost and great aroma, it should continue to be. Lemon oil can be used alone at about 8 drops of oil per cup of warm water for an all-purpose mild antibacterial solution. You can add a little potency for kitchen and bathroom uses by adding oils like Eucalyptus, Pine, and Rosemary. Keep the total number of drops per oil the same, adding other oils in place of the Lemon. Eucalyptus may create the best antibacterial synergy, and additional oils will build on this effect. You may increase or decrease the essential oil concentration as you see fit - if increasing, simply test your new recipe in small increments to insure tolerance for yourself and your family. There are many, many choices for antibacterial and antiseptic essential oils - these are a few of the most commonly used oils with a broad range of applications. Many oils, particularly when properly blended, can have greater specificity for your

individual needs. There are many excellent books available by reputable authors 'Advanced Aromatherapy' and 'Medical Aromatherapy' by Dr. Kurt Schnaubelt, and any of the books by Valerie Worwood are worth investigating to further your knowledge in the practical application of essential oils. These books cover the safe use of essential oils in general, and specific conditions you'll want to be aware of when delving deeper into aromatherapy. In selecting essential oils over synthetic preparations, you'll find great satisfaction making the natural choice for yourself and your family.

Essential Oils for Healing the Skin Healing the Skin with Essential Oils Trends in health and beauty are placing more trust in the efficacy of natural and organic ingredients. Skin care is no exception, with more women coming to realize the purity of what they put on their skin is as important as that of what they eat. The skin is the largest organ, and is generally permeable to substances placed on it. This is particularly important in healing wounds, for the skin may be broken and more sensitive. Enter essential oils; these powerful plant derived medicines have been used for many years for treating skin conditions, enhancing beauty and promoting wellness. Oils have been found particularly useful for regenerating skin that has suffered from accidents or surgery, or has their remaining signs in the form of keloid, acne, or other scars. Certain essential oil blends can speed healing time, reduce or eliminate scars from recent wounds and even greatly diminish the appearance of old ones. There are a few primary essential oils used in skin care which offer their regenerative properties; these oils can be used in low concentrations, and are generally well-tolerated - certainly more so than many synthetic ingredients. The most important of these may be Helichrysum italicum, also

known as Everlasting oil. This wonderful oil is distilled from the daisy-like flowers of the herb. It has a lovely earthy aroma and, despite it's apparent expense, works in very low concentrations (only a few drops per tablespoon of your total blend). Helichrysum is strongly anti-inflammatory and contains powerful regenerative molecules unique to this oil only. Helichrysum is the foundation of many blends for healing the skin, and can be used by itself in a synergistic carrier oil such as Rosehip seed. This combination may be all that is needed to speed the healing of recent wounds though often a little Lavender oil is added as well. Kurt Schnaubelt, one of America's leading aromatherapists notes in his quintessential guide "Advanced Aromatherapy" that Helichrysum essential oil and Rosehip seed can "heal wounds with minimal or no scarring". As mentioned above, Lavender is often included in skin care blends - it has gentle anti-inflammatory and tissue regenerative properties, along with very soothing, anti-anxiety aroma. Lavender essential oil itself began the modern aromatherapy revolution when a scientist burned his hand in a laboratory accident, and after cooling the wound in a beaker of Lavender found the wound to heal remarkably quickly. It is also thought to 'synergize' or improve the efficacy of other essential oils in combination. Calendula is now available as an essential oil, and has a remarkable body of research as a wound healing agent. Long used as an 'infused oil', the CO2 process now makes it possible to easily add Calendula to any formula. This extract has been studied to significantly speed wound healing, reduce inflammation, has antiseptic properties, and is a strong antioxidant. A 3% addition to any formula may make an important contribution to its efficacy. Sea Buckthorn essential oil is relatively new to the therapeutic arena, not described in many of the older medical aromatherapy texts. It is however, and amazing skin healer, as it offers many vitamin A-like compounds that stimulate skin healing and regeneration. It has a sweet, berry-like aroma, and a deep red color from the high concentration of Carrotenoids. Use at a 1% concentration; the red color will be absorbed by the skin several minutes after application. It has been considered useful for nearly every single aromatherapy skin care formula. The essential oil distilled from common Sage leaves is also used in the healing of scars, particularly old or unsightly scars. It's natural regenerative properties and ability to promote circulation aid in gently breaking down the tough skin resulting from wound healing. Sage oil should only be used in these instances and in small quantities, as it's Thujone content can be toxic in high quantities. If used in a recipe for stretch marks (see below), it should only be used post-partum. Despite it's powerful components, however, when diluted and used with respect, one can use this oil safely. Rosemary will be the final essential oil we'll mention here for scar treatment. For the skin, Rosemary of the Verbenone chemotype has many

important properties - it contains regenerative ketone molecules, and stimulates cellular metabolism. This oil helps new skin form, bringing nutrients into the cells and supports the removing toxins and wastes. The essential oils mentioned here must be diluted in a carrier oil for daily application. In aromatherapy, more is not better! There have been numerous studies showing the great efficacy of essential oils in low concentrations based in seed or nut carrier oils. The two most commonly used base oils for healing the skin are Rosehip seed and Tamanu oils. Rosehip seed has many documented uses in skin care, with it's triple-unsaturated fatty acids and it's vitamin A compounds. Rosehip seed has the ability to support tissue regeneration like Retin A, but without the drying or redening side effects. Hazelnut oil is the most well tolerated of all the carrier oils, and with its mild astringent properties, can even be used in cases of very oily skin. It will tend to leave the skin feeling nourished without feeling greasy. So how does one mix these natural botanicals for particular uses? There are a few simple but effective recipes specifically for wound healing and scar reduction. For old keloid or acne scars, use one ounce each of Hazelnut and Rosehip seed oils - to this, add one milliliter of Helichrysum Italicum essential oil and Sage officinalis essential oil. Apply regularly for three to six months for best results. For more recent cuts, scrapes, and even surgical incisions (that have reached the point where they are safe to get moist), use the same Hazelnut and Rosehip seed blend, adding one milliliter of Helichrysum and one milliliter of Lavender (Lavendula angustifolia). Apply twice a day while the wound is healing. For the reduction and possible elimination of stretch marks post partum, again to one ounce each of Hazelnut and Rosehip seed oils, add one milliliter Sage and one milliliter Rosemary verbenone. Like the formula for old scars, use this regularly for several months. So there is a few effective combinations of natural botanical ingredients that can support certain skin care conditions. Many, many more skin care formulas are available when blending essential oils - with many oils able to aid with very particular situations. If needed, a little research should go a long way in helping you find what you need. And as always with aromatherapy oils, go slowly, pay attention to your body's reactions and remember that increasing concentrations of the essential oils will not make a more effective blend. Be safe and enjoy.

The Wonders of Helichrysum Essential Oil 'Aromatherapy' has become an extremely misleading term in America; the position of 'Aromatherapist' was ranked as one of the top 100 'quackery' up-and-coming new jobs recently on CNN - and most folks think 'Aroma'-therapy is all about smelling something pretty so you can feel better.

Much of the rest of the 'civilized' world relies on plants, and their essential oils, as effective medicines for a wide varieties of medical conditions. Aside from the fact that many studies have shown that simply smelling natural aromatic oils can improve test scores, improve your mood and improve your sleep, there is a LOT more to aromatherapy than just good scents - and here we'll have a look at a very practical side of using essential oils - the speeding of healing of strains, sprains and sports injuries with Helichrysum essential oil. The Science of Pure Essential Oils At it's basis, aromatherapy deals with the use of volatile aromatic compounds naturally produced by the majority of plant species on earth. The difference in the chemical makeup of these 'essential oils' varies tremendously, and so does the biological effect of each class of natural aromatic compound. Many are known as strongly anti-bacterial or anti-viral, others stimulate tissue regeneration, others will reduce inflammation, some are analgesic (pain relieving), while still others enhance circulation (and the list goes on!). The individual chemical makeup of the essential oil from each plant give that oil it's healing characteristics. The makeup of one particular essential oil, that distilled from the flowers of Helichrysum Italicum, includes a very synergistic combination of compounds that are known to be antihematomatic (active against blood clots), tissue regenerative, free-radical scavenging (anti-oxidant), and anti-inflammatory.

The Physiology of Sports Injuries Before approaching it's possible effects of Helichrysum essential oil on sprains, strains and other sports injuries, let's look at the root of these painful conditions. Take, for example, a an ankle twisted in a basketball game - what has happened physiologically? Connective tissues (tendons and ligaments) have been stretched beyond their normal lengths; these tissue have suffered 'micro tears', which is damage to the actual structure of the cells of the connective tissue. Some of these cells are so damaged that they die, and need to be re-grown. There is often additional swelling and bruising involved, which is generally the leaking of blood from damaged capillaries into intracellular space. This results in a loss of blood supply to surrounding cells, and blockage of nutrients, oxygen, and waste products moving to and from those cells. This in fact, leads to cellular damage beyond the primary injury of the connective tissue cells. More cell death occurs here, not only directly from the loss of nutrient/waste exchange for these cells, but also due to an increase in oxidative radical activity. The greater the amount of 'secondary' injury which occurs lengthens the time to recovery - here, one can see why applying ice to an injury soon after it occurs can speed healing - it reduces the amount of blood that clots (bruises) in an area, and lowers the metabolic activity (and oxidative radical production) in cells with a loss of nutrient

supply - therefore, less secondary cell damage and death accompanies the primary injury. The Actions of Helichrysum Essential Oil Enter the activity of Helichrysum essential oil. It has a high percentage of antiinflammatory sesquiterpene hydrocarbons - this compound acts by dissipating free radicals. The oil's other major components include neryl acetate, a monoterpenoid ester with distinct, relaxing effects that can reduce tension of the tissues in the area of the injury. The third major component are the regenerative di-ketones, found in significant quantities only in Helichrysum oil. "The pain- reducing, analgesic, and regenerative effect of everlasting (Helichrysum) is unique: If applied in time, it prevents hemorrhaging. It is also very effective for joint pain..." - Dr. Kurt Schnaubelt, Advanced Aromatherapy. A Personal Account of Helichrysum's Healing Effects In 'Medical Aromatherapy', Dr. Schnaubelt indicates that the effects of many essential oils cannot be explained completely by the actions of their individual components - many oils' effects are greater than the sum of their parts. The synergy of the components in Helichrysum produces a particularly sensational healing result. A recent user of the oil, who had been a professional triathlete, then cyclist, then 'casual' marathon runner, was having chronic pain in an achilles tendon. Overuse - and perhaps a stiff clutch on an old car - lead him to believe that despite excellent fitness, he wound not be able to take part in an upcoming major marathon. The injury hurt every time he ran; he had been a proponent of alternative therapies for many years, with some success using DMSO for tendonrelated inflammation. He had not found DMSO (often used on racehorses for similar injuries) to be as effective on chronic injuries as acute ones, and this achilles issue was no different - nothing was helping fast enough where he knew he could make the race. For the first time, he gave Helichrysum essential oil a try, applying undiluted (Helichrysum is very well tolerated this way) to the area twice daily. Within two days, he was running without pain, and ran a personal best at the marathon event. In this instance, the application of Helichrysum reduced pain (and likely inflammation as well) in the area, and supported regeneration of the damaged tendon tissues. The essential oil should prove just as effective with acute injuries as well - it's noted ability to reduce the clotting of blood, along with it's antiinflammatory and tissue regenerative properties give it a seemingly complete natural arsenal to speed healing in most common sport-related injuries. In fact, this could extend to a very wide variety of trauma injuries, though great care should be taken to use as an adjunct to proper allopathic medical care in such cases. Giving Helichrysum Essential Oil a Try

Helichrysum is a somewhat rare and costly oil. It has been noted in the literature that only pure essential oil of Helichrysum italicum flowers will have this combination of effects. If you decide to try the oil for yourself, be sure of your source, and that the species is correct (there are other Helichrysum varieties, look for ones known as 'Everlasting' or 'Immortelle' - these are synonyms for the 'italicum' variety). For minor injuries, apply a thin film directly to the area one or more times a day. The oil will absorb directly into the skin, and does not cause any reaction or sensitivity for most individuals. The oil can be applied directly for more serious injuries as well, though this should be done only in conjunction with professional medical care. Continue to apply until no longer needed - application to broken tissue is fine, and in fact the oil has been used to speed skin healing and reduce scar formation. A base oil may also be used - Helichrysum combines well with Hazelnut and Rosehip seed oils, and can be diluted down to 5% of the total solution and still be effective. In any case, be aware of how your body is responding, and consult a medical professional whenever there is any question about your healing program.

Essential Oils for Healthy Hair Growth and Preventing Hair Loss Essential oils and carrier oils can help hair grow stronger and healthier, and can support regrowth in those experiencing hair loss.* Essential oils have long been ingredients in hair care recipes...You'll often find Lavender, Chamomile, Rosemary and Tea Tree in shampoos and conditioners, and for good reason—these oils can positively support the health of the scalp and hair follicles. Which may be the best oils for you? Here's a look at many essential oils and carrier oils used in hair care, with some tips to helping you create your most effective formula. For dilutions: 1% essential oil in a carrier is 8 drops of essential oil per each ounce of carrier oil.

The Essential Oils Essential oils can be thought of as the 'active ingredients' in your formulas. Choose one or more and add them at the recommended concentrations to your

carrier oil(s). Massage your blend into the scalp daily. Some recommend wrapping the scalp with a warm, moist towel afterward to open the pores and enhance absorption. This can be done before bed, and you may want to use a cover for your bedding to provide protection from the oils. Essential oils can also be added to your current shampoos and conditioners. Carrot Root - High in carotenes and other antioxidants, Carrot oil is exceptional for stimulating and regenerating skin and follicle cells. Retin-A, containing tretinoin - a form of vitamin A, has long been used alone or with Rogain to support hair growth for men with hair loss due to male pattern baldness. Carrot oil is actually a supercritical extract of carrot root emulsified in Jojoba oil (it is one of the few CO2 essential oils that is solid in its pure form). It may be one of the most beneficial oils for people experiencing hair loss of all types, and can support healthy hair growth for everyone. Use at 1 - 3% Carrot Seed - Mentioned in the aroma literature for invigorating pallid and dull skin, can do the same for hair follicles. May be especially useful where detoxification is necessary; noted specifically for folks whom have been exposed to environmental toxins (polluted urban areas, office environments, significant automobile commuting time, etc.) Use at .5 - 2% Cedarwood - Some people may be experiencing less than optimal hair growth or hair loss from bacterial or other infections, or from immune system deficiencies. Cedarwood is one of the essential oils in a blend successfully studied for alopecia areata (along with Thyme, Lavender and Rosemary, based in Jojoba and Grapeseed). Use at .5 - 1% Chamomile, German - One of aromatherapy's most effective agents for reducing inflammation. Hair loss is sometimes attributed to inflammation in the scalp and follicles, resulting in less-than-ideal cellular function. Some even attribute hair loss to an over-heated scalp. German Chamomile is both anti-inflammatory and cooling, with a pleasant sweet herbaceous aroma. Consider also Lavender for a similar effect. Use at .5 -1% Clary Sage - Proper hormone balance is crucial for both genders when considering the health of hair. Clary Sage is thought to balance estrogen levels in the skin and scalp, and can be of particular help for women of maturity. Use at .5 - 1% Clove - Antiseptic and a very potent antioxidant (one of the most potent natural antioxidants ever tested, at over 100,000 on the ORAC scale). Can increase circulation, and may be of best support for stimulating new hair growth. For scalp circulation stimulation, Black Pepper may also be used. Use only in very small amounts due to possible skin sensitivity, .25% Cypress - Included in formulas for increased circulation and capillary strength. It is important to have good blood circulation to the follicles for optimal hair growth. Many regimens for treating hair loss include Ginko and other herbs specifically for increasing circulation in the scalp. Use at .5 - 1%

Helichrysum - Thought to be regenerating to all soft tissues of the body, helichrysum is found in blends for both mature skin and for healing wounds. It is likely regenerative to scalp tissue as well, and may be particularly important as some physicians see the aging scalp to resemble scar tissue. Also an excellent antiinflammate, and used to enhance circulation. Use at .5 - 2% Lavender - Found in hair formulas for all types of hair and scalp conditions. Balancing, soothing, regenerative, anti-inflammate and antibacterial. The most commonly used oil for stress reduction. If stress is playing any part in preventing you from having the head of hair you'd like, add a little Lavender! Use at .5 - 3% Myrtle - A balancer of scalp oils, particularly useful where over-production of sebum may be clogging the pores and follicles of the scalp. A natural, gentle antiseptic; also considered regenerative. Use at .5 - 1%. Rosemary - One of the premier hair growth enhancing essential oils, rosemary is found in many preparations for hair and scalp. Thought to increase cellular metabolism, thereby stimulating healthy hair growth. Use the Verbenone type if regenerative properties are desired (may be most useful for supporting treatment of hair loss). Successfully used in alopecia areata treatment. Use at .5 - 2%. Sage - Highly regarded for hair growth, with stimulating properties found in Rosemary - along with hormone balancing of Clary Sage. Can balance scalp oils, and is found in blends for scar reduction and skin regeneration. Not for children or if pregnant. Use at .5 - 1%. Sea Buckthorn - Noted as enhancing skin and scalp health for every skin type and even every imbalance. Highly nutritive, potent antioxidant and regenerative. Due to high carotene content, will tend to leave the scalp with a little red color for a while after applied - be careful not to stain clothes and bedding. May prevent UV damage, which has been implicated in reducing energy in hair follicles. This is an amazing oil, well worth its berry-redness! Use at .5 - 2%. Ylang Ylang - Like Lavender, it is thought to reduce stress. Long used to increase the thickness of the hair shaft and to grow thicker hair. Can have a balancing effect on scalp oil production, and may help with split ends.

The Carrier Oils Carrier oils are just as important as the essential oils for getting the best results for stimulating hair growth. The carriers provide important essential fatty acids to the scalp and follicles. They offer necessary nutrients, and have therapeutic actions themselves. All these oils may be used for 100% of the base, though it may be most beneficial to blend two or more that suit your specific needs. Coconut - A carrier oil used in Ayurvedic medicine for enhancing hair growth all by

itself. Fractionated coconut (as we carry here at Ananda) is simply Coconut oil that has had the largest-chain molecules 'fractionated' from the smaller ones—this allows the oil to stay liquid at room temperature. Fractionated coconut has a nice light texture, appreciated in the warmer months. Virgin whole coconut can also be used in your formulas, and will remain liquid if blended with other carriers for your base. Highly nutritive, excellent for all types of scalp & hair. Evening Primrose - Many conditions of the skin are positively affected by essential fats, of which Evening Primrose is a wonderful source. Application and ingestion of this oil has been the subject of many scientific inquiries, with exceptional results for all kinds of dermatitis. Evening Primrose is noted to specifically address hair growth (or hair loss) where poor circulation might be an issue. Evening Primrose also may have a significant effect in reducing inflammation, which may in-turn be beneficial for reversing hair loss. Grapeseed - In the last few years, this oil became very prominent for healthy cuisine. Sometimes found dark green in color, the darker Grapeseed oils have more significant amounts of antioxidant polyphenols. Grapeseed has a particularly light feel, and may be the best choice if one has an oily scalp, though is wanting the many benefits of essential oil application. Grapeseed and Jojoba were used as the base for a study which treated alopecia areata with essential oils. These oils may be used 50/50 for this purpose. Hemp - Like Evening Primrose, Hemp offers significant quantities of essential fats, may improve circulation and reduce inflammation. Hemp is a highly regarded oil for its many nutritive constituents, and is considered the most palatable of the high Omega-3 plant oils. Some experts note that ingestion of essential fats can be very significant for hair growth, and Hemp is the most easily ingested of the plant sources (generally Evening Primrose and Borage oils are found too bitter, and are taken in capsules, rather than 'straight' or in a salad dressing, etc.) Jojoba - Found in many natural hair care products, Jojoba is used for softening and moisturizing dry hair. It is thought to cleanse the follicles of sebum, and promote vibrant, shiny and soft hair. Rosehip Seed - Considered one of the most therapeutic carrier oils for skin and hair. Rosehip has been the subject of many studies involving the reduction of sun damage and wrinkles for the skin. While not yet proven in the laboratory, Rosehip seed oil's therapeutic effects should benefit those needing its regenerative properties for their scalp and hair. While it can be used at 100% strength, Rosehip is most often blended with other carriers at 10-30% of the base formula. Sesame - Also highly regarded in Ayurveda, Sesame contains lignans that greatly enhance the efficacy of Vitamin E. Sesame is thought to encourage the growth of dark lustrous hair.

Blends and Recipes

Here are some suggestions for basic hair care formulas. All of these are designed for regular daily application, or as frequently as you feel is beneficial to you. These formulas can be massaged into a wet or dry scalp and left for at least 20 minutes, or applied before bed and left overnight. All formulas may be increased or decreased in total volume, thought the ratio of essential oil to carrier oil should stay close to these suggestions. These are general (though potentially very effective) suggestions -- changing ingredients to best suit your hair is encouraged! For Healthy & Vigorous Hair Growth - for those with 'normal' scalp conditions, blend 2 ounces Jojoba and 2 ounces Coconut oils. To this add 64 drops Lavender, 64 drops Rosemary (Cineol or Verbenone), and 16 drops Sage. If pregnant, use Rosemary Cineol and skip the Sage. For Healthy Growth for the Mature Feminine Beauty - To 2 ounces Jojoba, 1 ounce Evening Primrose and 1 ounce Rosehip Seed, add 48 drops Lavender, 48 drops Rosemary Verbenone, 48 drops Carrot or Sea Buckthorn and 24 drops Clary Sage. Treating Hair Loss For Men - Blend 1oz each Evening Primrose, Coconut, Rosehip Seed and Sesame. To this add 64 drops Carrot oil (HelioCarrot CO2 extract in Jojoba), 32 drops Rosemary Verbenone, 27 drops Helichrysum, 12 drops Clove, 32 drops German Chamomile, 48 drops Lavender, 20 drops Cypress. Treating Alopecia Areata - In 4oz of a 50/50 base of Jojoba and Grapeseed oils, add 32 drops each of Lavender, Thyme, Cedarwood and Rosemary c.t. Verbenone. For Dark & Thick Hair - In 4 ounces equal parts Jojoba, Coconut and Sesame, add 48 drops Lavender, 48 drops Rosemary Verbenone, and 48 drops Ylang Ylang. These are just a few suggested recipes. It is important to understand your own hair & scalp type, and reasons for your hair's condition. This will help guide you to the best choices for treating hair loss, or just growing wonderfully thicker & healthier hair.

Essential Oils for Minor Ailments Plants have been used for centuries to support the body’s natural healing process. Not only have they been shown to be effective in curing common ailments, they’re also used for the prevention of both simple and complex illnesses. There are plenty of simple plant remedies that can be used in the form of essential oils. Essential oils are a practical way to treat common problems because they are easily stored, and when purchased from a respected source, they are extremely effective with little to no side effects. Our bodies understand that essential oils are a part of nature’s way of balance, and

readily accept their life energy without interference with bodily function, as can be the case with over-the-counter and prescription drugs. The acceptance of that life energy is what causes their effectiveness not only through healing, but providing a positive mental and emotional state that can improve the quality of life. That doesn’t mean that modern medicine does not have its place, but there are minor inconveniences in our lives that can be treated with essential oils, removing the need for expensive doctor’s visit and prescriptions. Most importantly, these remedies only require some very basic knowledge of essential oils in order to be used safely and effectively: - Essential oils should not be applied directly to the skin, unless you are sure about the particular oil you are using. Most oils should first be diluted in a carrier oil (such as sweet almond or jojoba for example) to avoid skin irritation. - Some oils may not be safe for pregnant women. You can also ask your health practitioner should you have concerns. - If it is your first time using a particular oil, do a small patch test on the inside of your arm or other inconspicuous area, and wait for at least 8 hours to check for any adverse skin reactions. If irritation occurs, discontinue use. If you’ve followed all of the information above very carefully, you’ll find that the following oils are very easy to find, inexpensive, and can be used for a variety of ailments. I highly recommend them for your medicine cabinet at home: Lavender – Apply directly to the skin for cuts, stings and minor sunburns. Place a few drops into bathwater to reduce allergy symptoms. Earaches can be soothed by a couple of drops in both ears. Headaches caused by eyestrain can be treated with a few drops of lavender on a warm washcloth and then placed over the eyes. Peppermint – Add one drop to a tablespoon of raw honey for indigestion, or add to baking soda for an all-natural toothpaste. Use two drops in a bowl of steaming water and inhale to relieve sinus pressure and to provide mental clarity. Tea tree – Add one drop to baking soda for an all-natural toothpaste that will help to heal bleeding gums. Apply oil directly to skin to treat warts, athlete’s foot or ringworm. Eucalyptus – Adding a few drops to the bath will quickly open up the nasal passages and ease chest or nasal congestion. It can provide energy much more effectively than caffeine through inhalation, but without the dehydrating side effects of coffee or soda.

Aromatherapy, Essential Oils and Emotional Response

Smell is a specialised chemical sense. It is interesting to note that the olfactory cells are the only place in the human body where the central nervous system is in direct contact with the external environment. When we detect the smell of something, there is a direct contact between the molecules of scent and our own receptors. The message regarding the molecule of scent is passed along the olfactory nerve to the nerve centre in the brain. The neurons of the olfactory nerve, control the inner responses, i.e. emotions and memories, as well as the body's hormones. There is no generally accepted classification of the basic types of smells recognized by man. The sense of smell can be very sensitive, sensing minute concentrations of some substances in the air. There is considerable individual variation in the activity of the sense of smell. Adaption can occur to pleasant as well as nasty smells, due to changes in both the receptors and the central connections. It is important to remember that the inhalation of the aromas of essential oils also has a profound and instantaneous effect on us today. The limbic lobe of the brain receives information about smell via the olfactory nerve and this part of the brain is also concerned with our emotional memory. The limbic system produces the autonomic responses that accompany emotional states and behaviours. Particular scents can trigger strong, emotional responses which are pleasant or unpleasant according to our own individual experience. Which smells do you find repellent? What are your favourite scents? Perhaps the perfume of a favourite blossom or newly-mown grass, the scents of the garden after light summer rain, the smell of your favourite meal cooking or the perfume worn by a friend, the special scent of a baby or small child. When oils are inhaled, micro-molecules of essential oils travel through the nasal passages to the limbic system of the brain which is the seat of memory and emotion. The breathing in of essential oils is thought to trigger memories and emotions within the limbic system, which in turn stimulates a response within the entire system. With the memory comes instant recall of the associated emotion - pleasure, happiness, laughter, affection or perhaps sadness, pain, grief. For this reason, it is important to always heed the emotional responses to the aroma of the essential oils you intend to use. If the scent is in any way repellent, then it is wise to adjust your choice of oils for your blend. The subconscious, emotional responses are telling you something of vital importance and you would be wise to listen. Otherwise, you severely curtail the degree of benefit given.

Smell takes a direct, physical route to the brain because they employ nerve cells as transmitters and receivers. Odours travel directly through the olfactory system in the nose and the front part of the head into the limbic area of the brain which processes the smell.

Aromatherapy and Your Senses- Essential Oils are All Around Us Aromas are all around us...Think about how you encounter them every day from roses in the garden, a cup of steaming hot cappachino or soothing jasmine tea, basil that infuses spaghetti sauce, and fresh citrus juices. Noses can often detect hundreds of scents a day, and of those, the aromas of plants, fruits, barks and roots are able to do more than just feed us. Leaves from the tea tree plant not only heal cuts and burns, but the essential oil is strong enough to use as an all-purpose cleaner. The lavender flower yields an oil that can ward off insects, reduce stress, scent linens and get rid of bruises. Peppermint oil is a natural way to bid farewell to unwanted houseguests like bugs and mice. Did you know that the sodas and flavored bottled waters you drink contain essential oils? That the common vanilla flavor you find in ice cream is made from dark brown vanilla pods? Perfumes and colognes contain numerous blends of essential oils. High quality soaps, shampoos, bath oils, body powders and lotions all include varied essences of flowers, plants and fruits. I had many successful experiences using Pure Essential Oils, and I have read and heard of so many others enjoying relief from pain, healing of skin problems, awakening of positive spirits, etc. For example, a few years ago, before I had my own bath & body products business, I had to find a full time job. That prospect didn’t make me enthusiastic, yet after applying a small dab of lemon essential oil, diluted in a jojoba oil carrierbase, I was feeling cheerful and positive. This in turn came through in the interview and I was hired that afternoon. What is Aromatherapy? Aromatherapy is a therapeutic natural practice that can be used to advance health, beauty and a sense of ease. It involves using Pure Essential Oils with various methods, including bathing, inhalation and massage. Aromatherapy is derived from two words: Aroma means scent and Therapy means treatment. This scent/treatment has evolved over the centuries and across continents. In his book “The Art of Aromatherapy” Robert B. Tisserand examines what happened to mankind during the twentieth century: “Our minds have run away with us, and as we have become more obsessive, so we have become steadily more

neurotic. As doctors increase their knowledge of disease so disease becomes more tenacious and widespread. As new drugs are formulated and marketed, the harm done by those drugs increases proportionally.” Aromatherapy works in harmony with your body. Side effects from properly administered dosages are absent. Your body becomes stronger as it’s fed the complex nutrients of purity from essential oils, not something synthesized in a lab and deprived of all its components. There are no new essential oils—only the same, reliable plant life that has been used successfully for thousands of years. Combining the rich and fragrant oils of rose, jasmineand neroli, for example, may appear to be a new twist to you, but guaranteed this expensive blend of floral oils have been utilized for an individual with an overactive mind [stress!] some other time and place. A Brief History Of Aromatherapy Before 1993 you wouldn’t have been able to find the word ‘aromatherapy’ listed in a dictionary even though this art/science has been effectively used for thousands of years. In fact, the word was invented in the 1920’s by a French chemist by the name of René-Maurice Gattefossé who studied the cosmetic properties of plants. He soon learned that plants contained organic antiseptic elements that worked better than inorganic antiseptics. His interest was further ignited when he there was an explosion in his laboratory; badly burning has hands. Immediately he poured lavender essential oil [one of the few essential oils that can be applied directly on the skin] on them and made the not so astonishing discovery that his hands healed quickly and with no scarring. However, the usage of aromatic plants has been going on for thousands of years. From the civilizations of ancient Egypt, India, China, Greece, and Rome, floral and herbal oils have been used in all manner of ways from flavoring food and beverages to being poured into baths and massaged into the body. The Romans weren’t shy about employing scents. They inundated their baths and banquets with floral concoctions from scattering rose petals on floors to anointing their bodies with floral perfumes. After bathing their bodies were massaged with aromatic oils. Their beds and clothing, bodies and hair were scented with perfumes. Even men scented themselves with balsam and cinnamon oils. The natural healing system of ayurveda, meaning “science of life” was established approximately 4000 years ago in the Himalayan region. Plants and all their properties are a relevant part of ayurvedic medicine that continues to be practiced where it started and has now spread around the world. Hippocrates is known as the “father of medicine”, and this Greek doctor was a noted advocate for the usage of essential oils, especially in the form of daily baths and massages. Resins of myrrh and oils of cinnamon were often applied to a patient to soothe inner and outer complaints.

Essential Oils vs. Fragrance Oils: Pure, unadulterated essential oils derived from the leaves, roots, seeds, flowers or bark of a plant or tree are the source extracted directly from nature via a form of steam distillation. When you first begin working with essential oils, take care in handling them. Lavender essential oil is quite safe for the skin, as is tea tree, but some people can have allergic reactions to them. When handling essential oils, it’s wise to do a skin test. Simply apply a tiny amount on your wrist, and if there’s no reaction within 24 hours you are safe. As these oils can be costly, you must take care that they’re always kept in a cobalt or amber colored glass bottle and stored in a cupboard [out of direct sunlight] and kept in a cool, dry place. When you buy an oil, write the date on the vial. Most essential oils can last from one to three years. Citrus oils have a shelf life ranging from six months to less than two years. Essential oils can last for several years, but the freshness disappears. There are some exceptions with the darker colored, “heavier” oils or resins. Patchouli Oil is known to improve with age. It’s important to know about fragrance oils and what they really are. I visited an egroup for soapmakers and when someone asked for a company where they could purchase essential oils, a person gave the name of a company that sold only fragrance oils! Obviously, to this uninformed person, the terms are interchangeable. They’re not. Fragrance oils are synthesized in a laboratory. They are sometimes referred to as “nature identical.” If you’re looking for an inexpensive scent, then fragrance oils fit the bill. But fragrance oils are not therapeutic grade essential oils and never will be. From personal experience, I’ve learned that sniffing an essential oil right from the bottle and diluting it with a carrier oil such as sweet almond or jojoba, makes a huge difference. I smelled my favorite, vanilla absolute, a thick balsamic oil derived from the pod of the vanilla plant. I determined that the first whiff brought out the usual vanilla scent I was accustomed to, but a millisecond later there was a stronger, harsher scent. I then added a few drops to a bottle of sesame oil and the change was magnificent! I had the aroma I equated with the spicy-sweet scent of a dried vanilla bean pod. The carrier oil had combined perfectly with the essential oil! You should always dilute essential oils in carrier oils when applying directly to the skin, or even in the bathtub. This is a necessary safety precaution. Essential oils are very strong and need to be diluted. Also, some essential oils may smell good enough to drink, but are for EXTERNAL USE ONLY! Aromatherapy In Your Environment The methods described here are for those of you who wish to be able to change the fragrance environment of a room, car, office, closet, drawer, etc. There are psychological benefits to entering a room that has the crisp aroma of citrus, or a subtle scent of fresh blooming flowers. Aroma Lamps – Aroma lamps are either electric or operated by a tea light or votive

candle. There is a small cup shaped portion that is usually made of glazed ceramic and holds a few ounces of water. However, other materials may include glass and stone. Warm or even hot water should be used; as that is less work the candle has to do. Only a few drops of essential oil are added to the water, thus making it ideal for costlier essential oils. Care should be taken to see that the water doesn’t boil away. Atomizers – Requiring no heat, atomizers, sometimes referred to as nebulizers or nebulizing diffusers, disperse the essential oils on a revitalizing current of air as it passes through an intricately engineered blown glass chamber. This course naturally suspends and ionizes the oil into extremely fine molecules, causing them to remain suspended in the air for longer periods. Many aromatherapist practitioners and others who utilize the finest essential oils choose atomizers. It’s important to be careful with the atomizers. Since there is a continuous mist emitted it should not be used for more than a few minutes at a time. Many of the models do have built-in timers to avoid any problems like overuse. Also, make sure that this is done in a clear area, away from furniture, [varnish can be worn off] wall hangings and other objects. Candles – Candles create a more romantic ambiance and do double duty in helping disperse your preferred aroma[s] throughout a room. In the spirit of true aromatherapy, it’s advised to use beeswax, palm wax or soy wax candles as paraffin contains carcinogenic chemicals. Wicks should be trimmed, and the essential oils need to be added at the top of the candle, but never on the wick itself. You can add the essential oils after the candle has been lit and there’s a small pool of wax at the top of the candle. Don’t add the oils to the flame itself as oils can catch fire. Diffusers - You can buy diffusers to plug into your car’s cigarette lighter, as you can also find those that plug into any wall socket. The atomizers suspend a fine mist of essential oils into the air for aromatherapy is the best method of using essential oils for therapeutic treatments. Many aromatherapists believe that this is the most effective method of enjoying the aromas. Sachets – If you want your linens to smell clean and fresh, the addition of a smell sachet filled with your favorite aroma will create a pleasant smell whenever you open the drawer or closet. You can buy them already made, or make them yourself. Highly recommended would be a small muslin or organza bag filled with dried lavender buds and a few drops of lavender essential oil. Not only is lavender a universally pleasing aroma, it also serves as an all-natural way to keep moths away. Carrier Oils: The most common way to dilute a pure essential oil is with a cold-pressed carrier oil. Carrier oils allow the essential oil to slowly permeate the skin, protecting it from irritation. Jojoba, sesame, sweet almond, rose hip, refined rice bran, wheatgerm,

evening of primrose, grapeseed, kukui nut, sunflower, hazelnut, safflower, avocado or apricot kernel oils are commonly used. Several of the carrier oils can be combined and when essential oils are added, this makes for a very nutrient-rich bath oil. Determining Quality of Essential Oils: Read the label. If purchasing rosemary oil, for example, you would expect to see that name on the label. However, here are the four facts that you will find on any bottle of essential oil from a reputable supplier/company: 1. Botanical/Latin name. In this case it would be Rosemarinus officinalis. 2. Part. What part of the plant has the essential oil been extracted from? For rosemary, that is the leaf. 3. Method of extraction. Is it an absolute, enfleurage, carbon dioxide [CO2], or has it been steam distilled? In this case it has been steam distilled. 4. Country of Origin. Rosemary comes from many different countries, and in this case Morocco is the origin. Location can make a sizeable difference for many reasons such as climate, type of soil, high/low altitude, etc. Aromatherapy isn’t government regulated. Products can claim to be “natural” when in fact distilled water is the only untainted ingredient. Any reputable retailer of essential oils will be very knowledgeable about their product and capable of proving its purity. They will and should be happy to answer your questions. To learn more about aromatherapy, please get a copy of “The Illustrated Encyclopedia of Essential Oils” by Julia Lawless, as the book features photographs of the essential oils themselves, botanical origins, along with several ways to safely use essential oils.

Understanding Aromatherapy & Essential Oils In the 1920's, a French cosmetic chemist named Rene-Maurice Gattefosse, was one day making fragrances in his laboratory, when he accidentally burned his arm. He then thrust his badly burnt arm into the nearest cold liquid, which turned out to be a tub of lavender oil. To his surprise, the pain was decreased dramatically and left no usual burn results, such as, redness, heat, inflammation, and blisters. He also noticed that the wound healed quickly and left none of the usual scars associated with burns. It was at that point that Gattefosse dedicated his life to researching the medicinal properties of what we now call nature's essential oils. Incidentally, he was the first to coin the term aromatherapy. Essential Oils Essential oils are aromatic liquid substances extracted from specific species of trees, roots, leaves, fruits, grasses and flowers. These concentrated oils are far more valuable to humankind, than just pleasing aromas. The healing properties of

the essential oils, have long been known in ancient times. From Egypt to India to China and used accordingly. Essential oils are absorbed through the skin and leaves no toxins like their medical drug counterparts; this is an effective way to use them. They are excreted from the body through urine, feces, perspiration, and exhalation. Medicinal And Healing The essential oils have a proven history of healing and treating many ailments. Acne, burns, insomnia, depression, indigestion, dandruff, and cervical cancer to name a few. They may not necessarily cure all ailments, but do manage them effectively. The modern day medical system and drug industry have been using active ingredients found in the essential oils in their chemical drug making and treatment professions. However, because they've been chemically modified by science, they do leave toxins in the body after use, among other related problems. Essential oils in there natural form, are far more beneficial to your physical, mental and emotional wellbeing. Cosmetic And Beauty Apart from being able to heal and treat various ailments, essential oils have a varied and proven means of being great cosmetic alternatives. They can be used to make your own line of natural cosmetics that's both healthy and none toxic in nature. Imagine making your own body lotion that treats your skin like a pampered king or queen. Cosmetics that wave goodbye to cellulite and rediscover the gorgeousness of your hands. The potential is limitless and very safe. Natural beauty with no high price to pay, just nature's goldmine in your household. Air Fresheners & Cleaners Aromatherapy also provides a means to natural air fresheners and cleaners in the form of ....... you guessed it, those wonder working essential oils. Create air fresheners with lemon, geranium, pettigraine and blends to perform the music of a breathtaking musical dancing throughout your house in aromas that both paint your face with a smile and childlike awe. Create scents that is not only composed of sweet smelling aromas, but have natural bacteria fighting skills to them. Even soaps can be created, powerful enough to punch the ugliness of bacteria, yet mild enough to shower you with the grace of angels. Cooking & Food Recipes So we come to the culinary arts. Yes, using the essential oils in cooking, does open up new exciting paths for the taste of foods. Even the food industry uses these oil to enhance and create new taste treats. The only problem is, because they are produced on a larger scale, mush of the essential oils strengths are no longer present. However, you in your own kitchen, can make up for that little oversight. Herbs, spices, citrus, fruits, and flowers, are the essential main oils you will be using in the kitchen. Use them to elevate the taste of soups, breathe life into vegetables dishes, and addict the taste buds with cakes and desserts, among other

dishes. Domestic Pet Care Still in awe of the many benefits and uses of aromatherapy? Essential oils help keep ticks, fleas and other diminutive creatures, off your dog for less than there commercial chemical counterparts. Watch as you help your dogs' coughs, colds and flu become more manageable and disappear with the essential oils niaouli, eucalyptus and tea tree. It's not just dogs than can benefit from aromatherapy, but cats, rabbits, hamsters and horses. Essential oils offer many remedies and solutions for taking care of your domesticated little friends and companions, saving you a dreaded and expensive trip to the vet. Garden Guards Using essential oils in your garden, can prove to be one of the wisest decisions you'll ever make. Many commercial garden products like pesticides, fungicides or wood preservatives, can wreck havoc in the form of dangerous poisoning, not just on pest and bugs, but in the inevitable foods you're growing that will end up in your stomach. The beautiful flowers and plants, you'll be sniffing and touching will definitely have some sort of toxic effect on you, because of the chemicals sprayed on them. This is where using the essential oils as a natural alternative, will not endanger your health. The functions of certain essential oils in the plants before they were extracted, shows that they were able to protect against bacteria and viruses. The strong antibacterial and antiviral properties in the essential oils, are also known for effectively dealing with fungi and mold. Essential oils also deter and prevent pest and insects from harming your garden. Ancient Miracle Aromatherapy offers you a choice between toxic chemicals and natural ones that will enhance and beautify your existence on the planet. In addition, it presents to you the gift of acquiring inexpensive solutions to your expensive ones. A chance to naturally take care of your pets as they take care of your happiness and selfesteem. Beautify your self safely without the harmful monsters of chemical cosmetics and live like royalty with the taste of foods fit for the gods. Furthermore, aromatherapy offers the miracle of effective healing and treatment that do more good than there chemical brothers.

Essential Oil Spotlight - Tea Tree Essential Oil Tea Tree oil is one of the most popular of the essential oils. It is one of the strongest natural antiseptics, commonly referred to as the "Universal Antiseptic." This quality makes it one of the most worthwhile ingredients in homemade cleaning

recipes. Tea Tree oil is also well tolerated having no known allergic reactions. The time has c ome for us to reject the chemical-laden, air-polluting, health destroying, hazardous, commercial household cleaning products. There is something wrong when big corporations are using, "Trade Secrets," which means they are free to put harmful chemicals in the products that we use everyday in our homes. Manufacturers are not required to list them on the label. There are some companies that provide us with many excellent eco-friendly, nontoxic-cleaning products, but it is more economical and satisfying to make our own. You may notice that once you start using natural, safe cleaning products, you will not want to go back to using chemicals. The change is so pleasant to our bodies physiologically, and so soothing emotionally that we can't go back to harsh chemicals. Clinical studies have documented the value of Tea Tree oil, which date back to the original work conducted in 1923 by Dr. A. R. Penfold, an Australian government chemist. He found that Tea Tree leaves contained an essential oil, which showed antiseptic and bacterial properties 13 times stronger than carbolic acid, the accepted standard of the time. In 1930, Mr. E. M. Humphrey published an article entitled "A New Australian Germicide." He identified that Tea Tree oil's disinfectant action on the typhoid bacilli was sixty times greater than that of ordinary hand soap. So important was Tea Tree in the 1940's that it was standard issue in first aid kits for army and navy personnel. Tea Tree oil turns out to be one of the most useful of all essential oils, especially as an antiseptic. The antiseptic, germicidal, antifungal, antibacterial immune-boosting qualities of Tea Tree oil make it applicable to a wide range of health conditions. In addition, the antiseptic benefits of the oil allow its use as a natural cleaner and disinfectant within the household environment. Tea tree oil has many uses for housekeeping. You can prove to yourself how well it works to kill mold and mildew with this simple test: Put 2 teaspoons of Australian tea tree oil in a spray bottle with two cups of water. Spray the mixture on something musty. Let the smell dissipate (it will take a few days). The smell of mold and must will be gone, too, never to return as long as the source of moisture has been removed. You can make your own cleaning supplies with antibacterial properties that nature provides. You'll feel a whole lot brighter and energetic after a few hours with essential oils than you will after breathing the fumes of toxic chemicals.

Essential Oil Spotlight - Ylang Ylang Essential Oil Ylang ylang, pronounced ee-lung ee-lung, is as exotic sounding as the tropical regions from where these fragrant flowers originate. The name means, “flower of flowers” and the abundantly sweet flowers are prettily colored pink, mauve or yellow, colors frequently seen during sunrise and sunset. These trees flourish in the

tropics; the islands of the South Pacific [Philippines, Guam, Fiji, Tonga, Samoa, Cook and the Marquesas]. Additionally, ylang ylang trees have been planted in Hawaii and New Caledonia. Near the coast of southeast Africa, some of the finest ylang ylang producing trees flourish in the Comoro Islands and Madagascar. As this distinctively named flower hails from the warmer parts of the world, the [botanical name Cananga Odorata var. genuina] can also warm up your love life. Indonesian newlyweds discover their bed covered in the highly scented blossoms as according to “The Essential Oils Book” by Colleen K. Dodt, ylang ylang: “…. is believed to be antidepressant, aphrodisiac, sedative, calming, euphoric…It has been found effective in reducing sexual difficulties resulting from anxiety, stress, and depression.” Before you run out and purchase some ylang ylang essential oil, you should be aware of the fact that this is an aromatic plant that needs to be used sparingly. Too much ylang ylang and you’ll get a headache. The aroma is annoying to some, but to many it’s very soothing and calming. Ylang ylang is reminiscent of another tropical floral star in aromatherapy, namely jasmine. It has been dubbed the “poor man’s jasmine” as the lower grades of ylang ylang are priced in the single or double digits. The botanical name is derived from the Malaysian word, “kenanga” which is the vernacular for the genus. “Odorata” simply means fragrant. Grades of Ylang Ylang Essential Oil: As with any essential oil, the higher the price the higher the quality. And Ylang ylang oil, unlike many other essential oils, has several different grades [or fractions] ranging from the costly Ylang Ylang Superior Extra down to the least expensive, Ylang Ylang III. Ylang Ylang Superior Extra – This is an extraordinary form of ylang ylang which is considered by experts to represent the finest notes of this lovely floral. Found on Mayotte Island off the coast of Madagascar, this grade of oil is from certified organically grown flowers. Ylang Ylang Complete – This grade is comprised of all fractions of the ylang ylang essential oil from the Extra to Grades I, II, and III. Ylang Ylang Extra – The most floral smelling of the grades. This grade is recommended for perfumers as it is the most full-bodied and has spicy background notes. It is taken from the initial distillation where the petals are only distilled for one hour. Ylang Ylang I – A very nice floral and the perfect introduction to this flower essential oil. This is the first distillation, obtained during the second to third hour of distillation. (This is the grade Ananda currently has available. Our supplier has found one of the worlds most floral Ylang-ylang #1 grades, to offer a high quality

oil at a reasonable price.) Ylang Ylang II - This is the second distillation, obtained during the third to fourth hour of distillation Ylang Ylang III – Having been distilled for at least a day, the resulting grade of ylang ylang is the heaviest in scent. This grade is best used for aromatherapy beginners on a budget or to scent soap, candles and other bath and body products. Ylang Ylang CO2 – Distilled by CO2 [carbon dioxide], when a certain amount of pressure is applied the gas changes to liquid; thus, this is one of the safest ways to extract oils. Most ylang ylang extracted in this manner is quite expensive. Ylang Ylang Absolute – This method of extraction is done by alcohol washing of the concrete obtained from the ylang ylang petals. Done primarily in France from the Comoro Islands flowers, the pale yellow oil has a balsamic undertone. Absolutes are outstanding for perfumery due to their long-lasting aroma. Benefits of Ylang Ylang Essential Oil: Ylang Ylang is a calming, soothing essential oil that helps alleviate stress. It also helps high blood pressure and decreases nervous tension. Is an excellent balancing oil for oily or dry skin. Ylang ylang has been reputed to stimulate hair growth and is a natural conditioner. Julia Lawless, author of “The Illustrated Encyclopedia of Essential Oils,” writes: “In the Victorian age, the oil was used in the hair treatment Macassar oil.” Safety/Precautions: Aromatherapy author Colleen K. Dodt wrote: “My sister found ylang ylang helpful during her pregnancy when high blood pressure threatened. The scent calmed and relaxed her, which naturally lowered her blood pressure.” As with any natural product, common sense is the first defense. If you or someone you know has a strong dislike for a certain scent, then don’t use it. If concerned about safety, always check with your healthcare practitioner. Uses for Ylang Ylang Essential Oil: Bath soak ~ All you need is one or two drops in your bathtub of warm to hot water and you should find yourself relaxing. Candle ~ Add a few drops to a candle, next to the wick, not on it as essential oils are flammable. Ylang ylang will fill the room with its exotic floral aroma and relaxation should follow. Hair ~ Add one or two drops to your hairbrush and brush your hair. Not only will it smell great, doing this helps to condition it naturally. Also, Ylang ylang is believed to stimulate hair growth.

Blending with Ylang Ylang Essential Oil: Ylang Ylang can greatly enhance sandalwood, rosewood, or any citrus oil such as: grapefruit, bergamot, lemon, lime, orange, petitgrain, and other florals like lavender, jasmine, tuberose and rose. To offer a marvelous contrast, use black pepper, Peru balsam, patchouli or vetiver essential oils. Ylang ylang essential oil is a fragrant year round reminder for those of us living in colder regions. Slip away on a tropical vacation as you inhale the heady floral bouquet. While not all of us can board a plane and benefit from a tropical vacation, for only a few dollars we can buy a ylang ylang scented product and transport ourselves there via the imagination.

About Rose Oil - A Gift from the Flower of Love

Ah, Wonderful Rose Oil If there's an aroma that more individuals find deeply moving than any other, it is the oil of rose. The scent is divinely sweet, rich, and deeply floral - exclusive to the extract of history's most revered flower. Though the rose is renown for it's fragrance, the flower actually contains very little aromatic oil by weight. Some 60,000 roses are needed to distill a single ounce of oil, or about 60 roses PER DROP, a fact which brings the seemly high cost of rose oil into perspective. The Flower of Love The hardy nature of the thorny rose bush and the flower's magnificent beauty make it a horticulturalist's dream. The genus Rosa has some 150 species spread around the globe, being cultivated in your grandmother's backyard garden, in vast fields in Bulgaria's Valley of Roses, and everywhere in between.

Roses have somewhat of a unique past, peppered with interesting stories and extravagant displays of affection. The flower's association with devotion was perhaps most wonderfully expressed during the Roman empire, with banquet halls being carpeted with petals. Cleopatra once received her beloved Marc Antony in a room literally knee-deep in rose petals – how's that for greeting? Roses are the unrivaled symbol of love, given dear ones through the ages as an affirmation of true affection. It's no wonder the flower's oil has great healing properties, both physically and emotionally, for the human heart. Rose's health Benefits With it's considerable therapeutic and aesthetic value, the 'queen of the flowers' had a special place in medicine and perfumery in the ancient civilizations of Persia, Egypt, India, Greece and Rome. The modern healing tradition of the extract of rose began in the 17 th century with the writings of English physician Nicholas Culpeper. The herbalist described the use of red roses to strengthen the heart, it's cooling and astringent actions, and its effect on headaches and tired eyes. Perhaps inspiring it's use as a beauty tonic 'par-excellence', he went on to suggest it's use as a remedy for a variety of skin complaints. In aromatherapy, the psychological effects are wondrous for those with a broken heart, or other emotional wounds. Rose oil calms and supports the heart center, inspiring a sense of happiness and well-being. When rejection or loss has injured one's ability to love and nurture, either themselves or those around them, rose oil can bring sweet and gentle comfort and allow an emotional 're-opening'.

Use in Aromatherapy It is the Bulgarian Damask rose, or Rosa Damacena, most often used in aromatherapy. The oil of this 36-petaled beauty is available in two forms: the 'otto', or true essential oil, and the 'absolute'. Harvest of the flowers occurs in the early morning, before the sun's rays has warmed away the aroma. Rose otto is made in a two step steam-distillation process; the first distillation yields an essential oil and a large amount of 'rose water'. The water is again distilled, producing an oil which is combined with that from the first distillation. The absolute is made with a different process entirely. Similar in a way to 'effleurage' (the pressing of petals in fat to produce an extract), the flowers are processed in a solvent, with a wax-like 'concrete' being produced. Through a second extraction of the concrete, rose absolute is yielded. This method is significantly more efficient than steam distillation, producing nearly 7 pounds of oil per 10,000 pounds of roses (distillation yields 1 pound oil per 10,000 pounds of roses), with a corresponding lower cost. Does one produce a better oil? There is certainly debate; while some argue that traces of solvent are likely to exist in the absolute, others claim the heat of distillation does not result in a true representation of the flower. And as with either method, the quality and effect of the oil varies greatly with the

experience and care of the manufacturer – the answer truly lies with the individual and the application. Using Rose Oil of rose can be utilized in a number of ways; it is very gentle, being suitable for use on the skin 'neat', in massage oil, and in a bath, as well as in a diffuser. As a perfume, the absolute can be worn directly on the skin – it's 'tenacious' quality will have the aroma slowly released for many hours. For therapeutic use for the emotions, a dilution of 10% of otto or absolute in jojoba oil is often used, being massaged into the heart area – a diffuser is very effective for this purpose as well. The absolute or otto can also be added in small amounts to any skin cream, though using a home-made natural recipe is often the nicest. Rose water, or hydrosol, the water resulting from the distillation process of rose otto, can also be used directly on the skin, with it's mild astringent and toning properties. A rose and lavender facial cream can be made using the following recipe: Melt ½ ounce of beeswax in 4 ounces of jojoba using a double boiler. Add 3 ounces of distilled water in a thin stream while stirring vigorously with a wire whisk. Remove from heat and continue stirring while adding 20 drops of rose oil (absolute or otto) and 15 drops of lavender. Allow to cool, then enjoy this wonderful homemade cream for sensitive skin. There are, of course, many ways to enjoy rose oil's benefits. It is revered on many levels, from its pure aesthetic aromatic beauty, to its physiological healing and emotional uplifting. True rose oil, with its great depth and sweetness, is easily appreciated by almost all who experience this natural wonder.

Essential Oils for Psychic Work Essential oils are essences derived from various plants. They can be used to beautify your environment, raise your vibration and enhance your psychic experiences. You can put them in your bath, rub them on candles, use them in a diffuser, or anoint yourself with them. The most traditional areas to anoint are the center of the forehead and the crown. But you can also benefit from anointing your psychic centers, your chakras, your wrists, throat, ankles and the back of your neck. Here are some of the most "essential" essential oils and their psychic and spiritual properties: Cinnamon Essential Oil: Purifying, healing, empowering, protective. Stimulates visions, strengthens focus, attracts wealth, love and harmony. Opens root chakra, aids in connecting with guides. Associated with the Element of Fire. Can be an irritant.

Frankincense Essential Oil: Uplifting, balancing, purifying, protective. Good for meditation and connecting with guides. Promotes enlightenment, multidimensional awareness, transcendence. Dispels negativity. Associated with the Element of Fire. Jasmine Essential Oil: Balancing, inspiring, sensual. Attracts love, romance and sex. Stimulates psychic dreams, astral projection, creativity and visions. Encourages compassion and transcendence. Aids meditation. Associated with the Element of Water. Lavender Essential Oil: Integrating, balancing, healing, protective, purifying. Aids meditation, stimulates dream recall and clairvoyance. Opens third-eye chakra. Associated with the element of Air. Can be toxic in large doses. Mugwort: Psychic stimulant. Opens root chakra. Promotes visions, prophetic dreams, astral projection. Can be an irritant. Myrrh Essential Oil: Grounding, healing, protective, purifying. Clears blocks. Encourages enlightenment, transcendence. Good for meditation and blessings. Can be an irritant. Patchouli Essential Oil: Grounding. Attracts money, love and sex. Dispels negativity, stimulates spiritual growth. Great for divination and self-hypnosis. Rose Essential Oil: Cleansing, healing, balancing, protective. Opens heart chakra, attracts love. Stimulates creativity, assists in letting go. Use for divination and blessings. Rosemary Essential Oil: Protective, cleansing, psychic stimulant. Opens heart chakra and third-eye chakra. Promotes visions, creativity and past life-recall. Dispels negativity. Can be an irritant. Sandalwood Essential Oil: Purifying, protective, healing. Opens sacral chakra. Good for meditation, astral projection, manifesting, blessings, house cleansings and releasing the past. Dispels negativity. Use precaution with essential oils. Read labels and heed any warnings. Be sure oils are properly diluted before using them on your skin and keep away from eyes. Never ingest essential oils. Keep all essential oils out of the reach of children. If you are pregnant, please check with your doctor before using essential oils. Some essential oils can adversely affect certain medical conditions, such as asthma, epilepsy. If you need medical attention, please contact a health care professional.

Health benefits of oregano essential oil

The health benefits of Oregano Essential Oil can be attributed to its properties like anti viral, anti bacterial, anti fungal, anti parasitic, anti oxidant, anti inflammatory, digestive, emenagogue and anti allergenic. The disinfectant and anti bacterial properties of this oil were recognized in ancient Greece where they used for treating bacterial infections on skin, wounds and otherwise and also to protect food stuff from bacteria. It is a plant of higher altitudes and normally grows in mountains, thus getting the name Oregano which means “Delight of the Mountains”. The Essential Oil of Oregano is extracted through steam distillation of fresh leaves of Oregano, bearing the scientific name Oreganum Vulgare. Its chief components are Carvacrol, Thymol, Cymene, Caryophyllene, Pinene, Bisabolene, Linalool, Borneol, Geranyl Acetate, Linalyl Acetate and Terpinene. Apart from being recognized for its anti microbial properties, this oil has many other medicinal properties. These properties are listed as under.

Antiviral: It gives protection against viral infections. This means you become immune against cold, mumps, measles, pox and other problems created by virus. Antibacterial: Just as it protects you against viral infections, it protects you against bacterial infections too. This gives you protections against most of the diseases caused by bacteria, such as infections in colon, urinary tract etc., typhoid, cholera, sores, skin infections and temporary problems such as food poisoning. Antifungal: Virus, bacteria, fungi and protozoa are the four agents which are responsible for all types of communicable and infectious diseases. Out of these, fungi are responsible for some of the dreaded and fatal infections, internal and external. They cause some ugly infections of ear, nose and throat, which if not treated early, may reach the brain and prove fatal. Many skin

infections are also caused by these fungi. Oregano Oil, if used regularly, internally or externally, can protect us effectively against these fungal infections. Antioxidant: This property turns out to be very beneficial in the long run. This protects you from the damages done to the body by the free radicals or oxidants, neutralizes the free radicals and repairs the damages already done. This slows down aging and protects from certain cancers, macular degeneration, degeneration of muscle due to aging, wrinkles, loss of vision and hearing, nervous disorders and many such ailments related to aging and effects of free radicals. Anti-inflammatory: This oil is good on sedating any type of inflammation, internal or external, caused due to any reason. Antiparasitic: Many types of parasites, such as round worms, tape worms, lice, bed bugs, mosquitoes, fleas etc., some living inside human body and some outside, use human body as a source of food as well as act as carriers of communicable diseases. Oregano Essential Oil, when ingested, gets you rid of intestinal worms. Applied externally, it keeps away lice, bed bugs, mosquitoes, fleas etc. Anti-allergenic: This is another aspect of sedating property of Oregano Essential Oil. Allergy is hyper-reaction of body towards external stimuli. Oregano Oil, being sedative in nature, calms down this hyper-sensitivity and hence gives relief from allergy. Digestive: Oregano Oil promotes digestion by increasing secretion of digestive juices. Emenagogue: This oil is also beneficial for regularizing menstruations and pushing away menopause. Those who are suffering from obstructed menses may get a relief from this. Other Benefits: Helps heal Psoriasis, Eczema, Athlete’s foot, flu and other infectious ailments. Further, it can be used to treat bacterial infections like E Coli, Giardiasis and food poisoning. It relieves congestion. Certain studies reveal that it is as powerful a painkiller as the best ones in the market, with the added benefit that it is without the side effects.

Few Words of Caution: It can cause irritation of skin and mucus membrane, if taken in higher concentrations or dosages. Pregnant women should avoid using it. Blending: Essential Oil of Oregano blends well with essential oils of Lavender, Rosemary, Bergamot, Chamomile, Cypress, Cedar Wood, Tea Tree and Eucalyptus

Oregano Essential Oil and its Properties Oregano essential oil should never be used undiluted. Always dilute it in a suitable carrier oil, such as olive oil, almond oil. It is also important, as with any essential oil, to perform a skin patch test before using oregano essential oil for the first time. To perform this simple test, just place a small amount of diluted essential oil on the inside of your elbow and apply a bandage. Wait 24 hours to see if there is any negative reaction, such as redness or irritation. Oregano essential oil is very concentrated and therefore, a drop or two goes a long way. Usually, it is recommended to start out with a dilution rate of 1 part of Oregano Oil to 3 parts of carrier oil For fungus, one simple recipe would be to dilute 1 teaspoon oregano essential oil in 2 teaspoons olive oil and apply with a cotton swab to the affected area up to three times a day. You can also treat the body by placing one drop of Oregano Oil to one 8oz glass of water or juice once or twice day. If you decide to use the under the tongue method, it's a wise soul it is to mix 1 tsp of honey or olive oil with the drop of oil before placing it under the tongue! Another great idea is to use it in your bath water - but mix a couple drops of the diluted oregano oil with body gel, or shampoo and then add it to the bath water so that it is absorbed better and just doesn't sit on top of the water!

As a disinfectant, it's hard to beat - as it almost completely eradicates fungus and bacteria - so place a few drops in a spray bottle with a bit of detergent to act as a emulsifier, and spray your countertops! As a precautionary note - do not use oregano essential oil - topically or internally - if you are pregnant! Nursing mothers should take extreme care as well, as we don't that sweet little baby accidentally ingesting any of this oil! Topically, oregano essential oil may be irritating to the skin, and can cause burning. So just make sure it is always diluted properly and never use more of a concentration of greater than 1% to any mucous membrane! As with most of the more potent essential oils, children less than 2 years of age should not use it topically or internally. Always use extreme care and safety when using any essential oil - and always make sure you can trust the supplier you buy your essential oils from. There are many synthetic or diluted essential oils out there on the market - and unreliable companies! Buy from someone you trust! Numerous university studies have shown that Oil of Oregano is a highly potent purifier that provides many benefits for human health. Oil of Oregano is a natural substance that is extracted from wild oregano plants, and two key compounds found in it are carvacrol and thymol. Studies have shown that both of these compounds have significant effects on harmful microorganisms that cause many illnesses in humans. It is important not to confuse Oil of Oregano with common oregano that is used as a spice for cooking. Common oregano is typically Origanum Marjoram, while Oil of Oregano is derived from Origanum Vulgare. Oil of Oregano can be purchased as either a liquid or as capsules/tablets. In both forms, it is important to verify that the oil is derived from the proper potent oregano plant, and that the carvacrol concentration is at least 70%. What are the Benefits of Oil of Oregano? The ancient Greeks were one of the first people to recognize oregano oil for its health benefits and medicinal qualities. It is known to be a potent antiviral, antibacterial, antifungal, and antiparasitic oil that can reduce pain and inflammation and effectively fight off infections. Some of the specific benefits of Oil of Oregano are: Destroying organisms that contribute to skin infections and digestive problems. Strengthening the immune system. Increasing joint and muscle flexibility. Improving respiratory health. Uses of Oil of Oregano

Skin Infections Oil of Oregano can be applied directly onto the skin to treat itches, skin infections, and irritated gums, but only if it has been diluted. Always follow the instructions on your particular bottle before applying topically onto the skin, since highly concentrated oils may first need to be mixed with Olive Oil or Coconut Oil before application (usually one teaspoon of Olive Oil or Coconut Oil per one drop of Oil of Oregano).

Digestive Problems The high concentrations of thymol and carvacrol in Oil of Oregano have been shown to calm upset stomachs and aid digestion. Therefore, a quick home remedy for mild indigestion is to drink a glass of milk or juice that is mixed with 2 or 3 drops of the oil.

Sinus Congestion Oil of Oregano is a wonderful natural remedy for sinus congestion. A common solution is to add 3 drops of the oil into a glass of juice and drink this mixture daily for 3 to 5 days.

Colds and Sore Throats Oil of Oregano is an excellent early defense mechanism when you feel a cold or sore throat coming on. Simply take 3 drops of Oregano Oil once per day (you can mix it into a glass of orange juice) and you should notice results within a few hours. Repeat this once per day for up to 5 days until the symptoms are gone. What are the Side Effects of Oil of Oregano? While Oil of Oregano has many benefits, there are a few possible side effects: Oregano oil may reduce the body's ability to absorb iron. Therefore, it is recommended that any regular use be combined with regular consumption of iron supplements. For this reason, women are advised not to take Oil of Oregano during their pregnancy. Pregnant women should also avoid oil of oregano since it can stimulate blood flow in the uterus, which can weaken the lining that surrounds the fetus in the womb. People that have allergies to thyme, basil, mint, or sage may be sensitive to Oil of Oregano as well, since they are in the same family of plants. If any skin irritation, rashes, or vomiting occurs when using it, it is recommended that you discontinue use and consult your doctor.

Learning how to use essential oils does NOT have to be overwhelming. In this article I want to describe to you the four basic applications of essential oil uses and a few very simple guidelines that can make your incorporation of these incredible oils easy and safe.

First, the guidelines: Personal judgment over all else. Your intuition (and your nose) is usually the best guide to learning how to use essential oils. What does your gut say? Trust yourself. You know more than you think you do about what's right and wrong for you, and with very little trial and error you'll get better at discerning between your intuition and everything else. Safe doesn't mean foolproof. Even drinking water used the wrong way can be harmful. And the oils we use and recommend are very potent. Know your body, your sensitivities, the properties and precautions of the oil you're about to use and ease yourself in to what you use. Follow precautions wisely. The techniques and recommendations on essential oil uses below are there to both give you knowledge on the precautions necessary to use these oils wisely, as well as inspiration on ways you may try. Learning the art of how to use essential oils takes time and common sense, but can be implemented easily when done so wisely.

Four Applications (and Dozens of Ideas) for Using Essential Oils Essential oils are usually used in four ways: aromatically, topically, internally and around the home. Not every oil can be used in each way! It's important to research each oil to know which application is indicated for it. You can do that with the essential oil list here. Below I'll go through each application, give you the guidelines and offer some inspiration on how to use essential oils in four main applications. Aromatic Application The aromatic application is the most widely known and used. Most of us understand that essential oils smell good and can be used as deoderizer or to freshen up the home. But there is more to aromatic applications than just smelling good. In the same way that negative compounds, such as chemical cleaners or gases can be absorbed into out blood stream through inhalation, so can the positive properties of essential oils. Inhalation can be quickly effective for the respiratory system, including the sinuses. Aromatic application can also have a positive affect on headaches, appetite, hormones, mood and so on. They've been shown to increase indoor air quality, reduce chemicals in the air, and fight airborne

illnesses. And the positive compounds and their properties, once within our blood stream, can increase our immune system response or promote well-being in a multitude of ways. This is because the "aroma" you breathe is actually a fine mist or vapor containing all the same properties of the oil itself. And it is due to the fact that the olfactory system is closely connected to the limbic system of the brain that essential oils have such a positive affect on the physical and psychological systems of the body. Here are some aromatic essential oil uses: 1. Diffusing: A good diffuser should use cool or room temperature air or ultrasonic vibrations to diffuse the oil into the air, which help the oil molecules remain airbound for several more hours and do not affect the structure of the oil through heat (which can dimish its therapeutic qualities). 2. Direct Inhalation: Directly inhaling the oil can be done by holding the bottle of essential oil a few inches from the nose and breathing in the aroma, or by adding a drop the the hands and cupping them over the mouth and nose. 3. Indirect Inhalation: Adding a drop to a handkerchief, cotton ball, small square of fabric, shirt collar, hair, pillow case, etc can all be beneficial. You can add a small piece of fabric with essential oil to your car vent or air duct this way, inhale while you rest, etc. 4. Hot Water Vapor: Bring a pot of water to boiling, add 1-3 drops of essential oil, place a towel over your head (your head being over the water) and inhale the steam. 5. Humidifier: Just like a diffuser, cool air humidifiers are best. Be aware that essential oils can damage plastic components over time, so choosing one made for essential oils is best. 6. Fan, Vent, Etc: Just like with the indirect inhalation, you can add the oil to cloth and place it in a vent or even in front of a fan. A good use for this is peppermint and DigestZen in the car to diminish motion sickness. 7. Perfume, Cologne, Deodorant Smells good and is safe and healthy for your body (unlike normal perfumes and antiperspirants). For perfume or cologne, add 1-2 drops or dabs to the wrists, behind the ears or by dissolving 10-15 drops in 20-30 drops of vodka and 1 tsp of distilled water to mist on the body or clothing. For a natural deodorant, dab onto the underarms or mix 3-4 drops of your favorite oils with a tablespoon of coconut oil and apply a small amount to the underarms. (This is branching into topical usage of essential oils, so read below for more information and precautions on that.) 8. Natural Room Deodorizer: Instead of harsh chemicals to cover up odors you can add essential oils to your odor removing efforts. For instance, you can create a room deodorizer by mixing a half cup of alcohol (such as vodka) with a half cup of distilled water, and 20-40 drops of your favorite essential oils in a decorative jar. Then add 10 or so bamboo skewers (like the ones you use for kebobs) to the mixture so that they are sticking out of the bottle. They will soak up the aroma and spread it throughout a bathroom easily. Even though learning how to use essential oils aromatically is probably the easiesr and safest, it's still important to know your body, and pay attention to how it responds to the oils. Topical Application

Learning how to use essential oils topically is a little more delicate, but still fairly simple. Please remember that although most essential oils can be used topically, HOW they are used will vary from oil to oil. Some come with precautions, but even those that don't can still affect some skin types, causing itchiness or a rash if not used properly. Know your skin type. Do you tend to have sensitive skin? Then always dilute. Are you not sure? Test an area of your inner arm first. All the doTERRA essential oils we offer include a simple visual guide to help you know how to use each oil: NEAT - NEAT means you can generally apply the oil in question directly to the skin without any dilution. However, it's always a good idea to patch test your own skin first, just in case. Sensitive - "Sensitive" means tha although some can apply the oil without any dilution, directly to the skin, those with sensitive skin should do a patch test or dilute before use. With these oils follow the dilution listed or use a guideline of 1 drop per 1-4 oz of carrier oil, such as coconut oil. DILUTE - These oils are very potent. It's important that you dilute them at least 1:3, as they can cause irritation to any skin type when applied directly. When learning how to use essential oils topically, massage is one of the most enjoyable ways. Massaging the oils into joints, muscles and tissues is relaxing and beneficial. Always move toward the heart when working on the arms and legs and avoid a heavy hand or moving over the spine or other sensitive areas with too much pressure. The next option is to apply the oils to the chest, behind the ears or directly over the area of concern (diluted as indicated). 9. But probably the best, most effective and yet gentlest option on how to use essential oils for sensitive skin is to apply the oils to the reflex points of the feet, hands and ears. The feet especially are beneficial because of the large pore will allow the oil to absorb quickly to the body, but are tough enough to not cause irritation if your skin is prone to reactions. The reflex points of the hands and feet also correspond to the different areas of the body by ways of the nervous system. Leaning how to use essential oils is made easy with visual guides to reflexology to understand which reflex points to massage the oil into based on your particular needs and uses.

Other ways you can learn how to use essential oils include:

10. Auricular Therapy: Similar to acupuncture, acupressure or reflexology, auricular therapy stimulates small reflex points on and around the ears by massaging the essential oil into the area. 11. Hot or Cold Compresses: Soak a cloth or towel in cool water with drops of your favorite essential oil. Place that cool compress over the area of concern, or wrap in a hot water bottle to use as a warm compress. 12. Bathing, Foot Baths, Etc: You can add essential oil to your bathwater, to your favorite all-natural shampoo or body wash, to your bath salts, directly to your washcloth or to a foot bath to soak in. 13. Personal Care: Essential oil uses include a natural deodorant (applied NEAT or diluted), as part of a skin care regimen, added to lotion or moisterizers and so on. Use as indicated. Internal Application Not all essential oil can be used internally. The FDA has approved certain ones for internal use, as "Generally Recognized as Safe". Each essential oil on our list will say whether or not it can be used internally. If so, read the following possible ways on how to use essential oils internally as inspiration.

14. Cooking: Many oils, such as oregano, can be used in cooking or baking. Usually one drop is enough, although certain recipes may call for more. Start small at first. 15. Drinking: We love to add peppermint or lemon to our water every day to help with digestion or energy, respectively. For single uses you can add one drop to a cup of rice milk, almond milk, or water and drink as needed. 16. Supplemental: Add a drop to 1 tsp of honey to take as a supplement or you can even purchase empty capsules, and add the oils indicated to take daily. (Don't make these in advance as they will usually dissolve the capsules if not taken within moments.) You can also purchase specially formulated essential oil supplements from our online distributor's store. 17. Vaginal Insertion: It's important that you know if you have any sensitivity to the oil - you don't want to find out this way. You can dilute the essential oil indicated in 2-3 tsp of carrier oil and insert with a vaginal syringe, then hold it in place with a tampon. Or you can soak the tampon in the mixture first then inserted for up to 8 hours. Another alternative is to add the oils to a sitz bath and sit in the water for 15-20 minutes or until the water has returned to room temperature. 18. Anal Insertion: Again this should not be the first time you ever use the essential oil or else you might find out the hard way you're sensitive to it. You can insert the oils either by diluting as indicated and using a rectal syringe, or placing the oils in capsules and using as a suppository. The oils are typically retained for several hours or overnight.

How To Use Essential Oils Around the Home Learning how to use essential oils around the home is last. We love to use essential oils in washing. We add a drop of the OnGuard blend to our sink when we're washing dishes. We also add essential oils to the washing machine, to the wet clothes before they go in the dryer or misted on fabric before they are line-dried. Household essential oil uses include oils like lemon that will remove many stains, as well as gum, stickers and other residue from most surfaces. Many oils have antiviral properties and can be added to natural homemade cleaners, such as sprays, carpet deoderizers, furniture polish (lemon specifically) and so on.

And some people even add oils or oil blends to household paint, craft paint or supplies, children's clay or dough, etc. Use this guide and the information on individual oils to practice how to use essential oils in your home and life safely and effectively.

Essential Oils Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) Many of dōTERRA®'s essential oils are safe for ingestion. In fact, all essential oils that are identified as Safe For Consumption can be taken as a dietary supplement, to promote physical well-being. Some oils (e.g.: valerian, lemon, grapefruit, orange, nutmeg, tangerine, etc.) are even more effective when taken orally. Things to remember when using essential oils as dietery supplements: 

Remember to dilute the oils in oil-soluble liquids, such as fractionated coconut oil or some other vegetable oil, olive oil, Agave nectar or goat/rice milk prior to ingestion. More or less dilution may be required, depending on how strong the oil is.

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Essential oils should not be given as dietary supplements to children under 6 years of age. Parents should exercise caution before administering essential oils orally to a child, and oils should always be diluted prior to ingestion for children.

But, please bear this in mind: dōTERRA® Essential Oils have always been CPTG®, certifiedpure-therapeutic-grade. Most other essential oils on the market today are not produced to such high standards, and may pose serious risks if taken internally. The information here was developed specifically for dōTERRA®'s oils, using GC (gas chromatography) analysis and MSDS (Material Safety Data Sheet) information. However, sensitivity is highly individualized, so you need to test the oils first, to see how you will respond to them. Essential oils for which dilution is not required The following oils can be used topically without dilution, in most instances. If your skin is very sensitive, dilution is still recommended. They are generally regarded as safe for use on children over 6 years of age.

You will still want to dilute these oils for ingestion. 

Bergamot

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Myrrh

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Roman chamomile

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Patchouli

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Lavender

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Sandalwood

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Melissa

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Vetiver

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Ylang ylang

Essential oils for which dilution is recommended For the following essential oils, dilution is recommended for both topical and internal use. Always dilute before using on sensitive areas — such as the face, neck, etc. — and before ingestion. Keep out of reach of children. 

Basil

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Lemon

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Coriander

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Lime

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Frankincense

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Marjoram

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Geranium

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Melaleuca alternifolia

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Ginger

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Orange

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Grapefruit

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Rosemary

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Helichrysum

Essential oils for which dilution is always recommended Always dilute these oil before applying topically or taking internally. Keep out of reach of children. 

Cassia

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Clove

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Peppermint

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Cinnamon bark

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Lemongrass

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Thyme

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Oregano

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Wintergreen

Methods of Application Pure essential oils have a wide range of therapeutic benefits. The method applied can effect the results you receive. First of all, please remember that almost no essential oil should be applied neat (undiluted) to the skin. "Normal dilution" is 2.5%, ie, 15 drops of the essential oil or synergistic blend to one ounce of carrier oil. Less is more when we speak of these powerful healing essences. Because we are so often asked "how to dilute"..."how many drops" etc we've moved the dilution and measurement charts from the end of this document to the beginning: How to achieve a specific dilution: For one fluid ounce (600 drops) of carrier oil: 1% of 600 2% of 600 2.5% of 600 5% of 600 10% of one oz

= = = = =

6 drops 12 drops 15 drops 30 drops OR 1.5 ml 60 drops OR 3 ml

Measurements/conversions (volume) 30 ml

1 fl oz

600 drops

2 tablespoonsfull

15 ml

1/2 oz

300 drops

1 tablespoonfull

5 ml

1/6 oz

100 drops

1 teaspoon

1 ml

1/30th oz

20 drops

1/5 teaspoon

The most popular or common way that the oils are usually administered, in the USA at least, is through an Aromatherapy Massage. Blend your chosen blend or single oil into your choice of carrier. You don't need to be a trained massage therapist Warm hands and a gentle touch may not produce the deep muscle results that a trained Licensed Massage Therapist can produce, but long sweeping strokes can relax tensions and relieve anxiety. There are many introductory massage books on the market today, some may be ordered from our online bookstore Massage, however, is only method to receive the healing gifts of Aromatherapy. Please bear in mind that from a scientific standpoint the path the oils take to effect our bodies is through the olfactory system. It is by inhaling the aromatic chemicals that comprise these natural oils that they effect our central nervous system, and cross the "blood-brain" barrier. The issue of whether the oils are absorbed

through the skin is often hotly contested. Traditionally, aromatherapists have believed and taught that the oils did enter the skin during massage, but modern testing indicates that this may well be wrong. So many other methods of delivery that allow you to inhale the volatile aromatics may be at least as effective. The choice of delivery method often depends on the intended goal.

For Skin Care: Facial Steam: for skin care, part of a deep cleansing routine: 5 or 6 drops in a pint of warm water or in facial steamer. Facial Masque: add 3 to 5 drops to moistened clay, honey, mashed avocado, egg white, etc. Facial Oil Blend: use up to 15 drops of Essential Oil to your chosen carrier oil, or unscented cream or lotion. Dry Brushing: To stimulate the skin, and the lymphatic system all over the body use a natural bristle bath brush with two or three drops of a stimulating essential oil (rosemary or pink grapefruit are good choices if not contraindicated) to the bristles and brush your skin, from the toes up to the heart, from the fingers to the heart, always working from the extremities toward the heart. Brush lightly but cover your whole body. This is effective either before or after your morning shower. I would omit the face and neck from this process.

For sinus or bronchial problems: I prefer to use: Inhalation: add 5 to 7 drops to a bowl of steaming hot water, put a 'towel tent' over the head to capture the steam. Close your eyes and inhale until water cools or until you stop smelling the oil. Repeat, if necessary, every four or five hours. Microdiffusion:

Use a nebulizing diffuser that will break the oil into millions of micro-particles. In case of illness, inhale near the "mouth" of the nebulizer. Only four or five minutes worth should be sufficient, repeat every few hours. Humidifier: (cool mist). Add from 3 to 9 drops of your chosen EO to the water of the humidifier. Run overnight, or add the essential oils two or three times a day, if running continuously. Please note, the essential oils can conceivably damage a humidifier. I've never had this happen, but it is a slight risk. This is an effective method if using the essential oils with a sick child, since there is not risk of danger from hot water, etc.

General use, for colds, flu, sore muscles, relaxation: Bath: from 5 to 10 drops in a tub of warm water. Fill tub, add oils, swish to disperse in the water. you might try adding the oils to a spoonful of honey, a small cup of milk or cream, or to your favorite carrier oil, and then adding to the water. Compress: Excellent for topical application to ease pain, from strained muscles, menstrual cramps, etc. Add 4 to 7 drops of Essential Oil to a bowl of warm water. Swish the surface of the water with a cloth, wring out, apply to area, repeat when cloth cools. You may cover the warm cloth with a sheet of plastic and a towel to keep the warmth in longer. This is an excellent method for treating painful menstrual cramps. Spritzer: The amount of Essential Oil used depends on the purpose of the spritzer. For 4 ounces of distilled water use: 8 to 10 drops for the face 30 to 50 drops for an all over body spritzer 80 to 100 drops for a room spray/air freshener This mixture will require a lot of shaking, since the essential oils do not dissolve in water. If you add them to water without first "solublizing" them they will float to the top of the bottle and just sit there (possibly dissolving the bottle if it is plastic.) Best and easiest to first dissolve the essential oils in two or three times their quantity of our Polysorbate 20 or in the same quantity of either high proof vodka or grain alcohol.

Having predissolved the essential oil in your diluent or solublizer, then add distilled water to fill the bottle. Shake well, spray. May be used as facial toner, to moisten a body wrap or as an all over freshener, or as a room spray. Jacuzzi: add three drops of essential oil per person. This may be repeated every 30 minutes. Be aware that some sources warn that the oils may do damage to plastic plumbing. Shower: After a shower, apply 5 to 7 drops to a damp wash clothe. Rub briskly all over the body. Preferably allow to air dry. Bath Salts: Use a blend of Epsom Salts (good for sore, aching muscles), Sea Salt, Baking Soda. Add 6 to 10 drops of your chose oil blend. Either add to warm bath, or use as a 'salt glow' rub before the bath. Adding a spoonful of your favorite carrier oil to the salt glow leaves your skin feeling soft and silky, but makes the tub harder to clean.

Household Use: Laundry: Essential Oils may be added to the washing machine, or a few drops put on a cotton cloth and added to the dryer. If using in the washer, the warnings above about possible damage to plastic or hard rubber parts would apply. Adding a teaspoon of Lemon Oil to the washer will remove greasy/oily smells. (A great trick for Massage .therapists!) Research indicates that adding Eucalyptus Globulous to the washing machine MAY kill dust mites in bedding. Lavender EO in the dryer can scent bed linens To really preserve the scent of EO's used in the dryer, add them and run on a 'no heat' cycle for a few minutes at the end of the drying cycle. General Cleaning: Use Lemon or Grapefruit EO, possibly with a touch of Tea Tree oil added, in the water you clean with. Wipe down kitchen counters and your bathroom with these cleansing, germicidal oils. I find that Lemon Oil in water does a wonderful job cleaning the bathroom mirror, as well as all the fixtures.

Washing Dishes: Lemon Oil is a great grease cutter; I add a few drops to the dish pan. And while we are in the kitchen: Flavoring: Either add a drop or two of a citrus, spice, or floral EO to a cup of honey, mix well and let stand, OR put a couple of drops of the same EO on a scrap of paper towel, lay on top of a jar of sugar, seal tightly and let stand for a week. Add the flavour of the fresh plant to sugar for tea, baking, etc.

How Do I Choose and Use Essential Oils? The essential oil that you choose will depend on the purpose—do you want it to help elevate your mood or do you need something to treat a burn? There is no “laundry list” that specifies which essential oil is used to treat which health condition. Instead, you need to be proactive about doing research and talking with qualified individuals. A good place to start is to get a book about therapeutic aromatherapy. There are many good books available and you will be able to find one that matches your needs. Be sure to pay attention to cautions for each oil and application method. We provide some examples in this section, but it is important to dilute the oils properly, consider your individual reactions, and watch closely for adverse effects. How do I use essential oils? Essential oils enter the body primarily in three ways—applied to the skin, inhaled, or ingested. Within each of these, there are many different kinds of application methods. For example, you can apply essential oils topically using compresses, sprays, baths, or massaging them into the skin. How do I choose an application method? The application method chosen depends on the desired effect and the essential oil selected. For example, some essential oils are irritating to the skin because of their chemistry. These would need more dilution or might better be used by inhalation. Once you have purchased an essential oil, the application method depends on the condition to be treated and the desired effect. For example: Wound care most often involves topical applications.

Mood effects might be addressed by either inhalation or topical application. For fast action, inhalation might be preferred. Baths involve both inhalation and topical absorption. Note: If you are unsure about which application method to use, consult an experienced aromatherapist. How can I inhale essential oils? Essential oils can be inhaled using a variety of techniques and devices. Diffuser: Essential oils are placed in this device, sometimes with water (be sure to read the directions), and sometimes with heat so they evaporate. Some diffusers have a timer for convenience. Essential oils should never be directly burned as the chemical structure is dramatically changed with incineration (Buckle, 2003). Dry Evaporation: Several drops of essential oil are placed on a cotton ball or tissue and allowed to evaporate into the air. If you want an intense dose, sniff the cotton ball. If a milder, more constant exposure is desired, simply keep the cotton ball in your immediate vicinity (for example, leave it sitting on your desk next to your computer). Steam: Drops of essential oil are added to a bowl of steaming water, which quickly vaporizes the oil. Place a towel over your head and over the bowl of water with essential oil drop(s) and breathe deeply. This method is very direct and potent—the use of more than 1-2 drops may be overwhelming. It is important keep the eyes closed when using this method. The use of eucalyptus essential oil in this way can feel helpful with upper respiratory and sinus infections Note: This is not recommended for children younger than 7 years old. Children older than 7 who use this method of aromatherapy can use swimming goggles to protect their eyes. Spray: Drops of essential oils are placed in a water-based solution, shaken, and sprayed into the air in order to deodorize a room or set a mood. An example might be spraying an aqueous solution of pine or citrus oils to enhance holiday feelings or a solution of peppermint oil to stimulate alertness. It is important to shake the bottle before spraying in order to spray the solution and not just water. How do I apply essential oils topically? Essential oils can be applied to the skin using a variety of techniques. It is important to note that most essential oils can not be applied directly to the skin without being diluted. How do I prepare a solution? As a rule of thumb, essential oils should be diluted in a carrier substance (vegetable or nut oil, or water) at no greater concentration than 3-5%. That means if you have one teaspoon (5cc) of carrier, you would add 3 drops of pure essential oil. This would make a 3% solution that could be used on a portion of the body.

For massage or for application over large areas of the body, a 1% solution (meaning, one drop of essential oil in one teaspoon of carrier) is generally a safe concentration. For infants, using a 0.25% solution is recommended (.5% for toddlers). Note: If you use water as a carrier, be sure to shake or mix your solution well before application. What carrier oil should I use? Common carrier oils are often available in natural foods stores or stores that specialize in natural bath and body products. Organic and cold-pressed carrier oils are preferred, and examples include sweet almond oil, apricot kernel oil, grapeseed oil, jojoba oil, or avocado oil. These oils do not have a strong smell of their own. They should be kept refrigerated until used and should be discarded if they smell rancid. (Oils typically keep about a year if refrigerated.) For wound care, an ideal essential oil would be gentle to the skin and antimicrobial. Some essential oils can be used in different ways. For example, true lavender essential oil (Lavandula angustifolia) can be used on the skin for cuts and minor burns, and it can be inhaled to promote relaxation and sleep. Lavender is one of the few essential oils that can be used undiluted on small areas of the skin. What are the techniques? Compress: The essential oil is diluted in a liquid carrier (water or oil) and applied to a dressing or directly to the affected area. Optional heat or cold can be applied. For example, a few drops of ginger (Zinziber officinalis) essential oil can be added to comfortably hot water and mixed to disperse the oil; then a cloth can be soaked in the solution and placed on a stiff joint. Additional heat can be applied as desired. Gargle: Drops of essential oil are added to water. You mix, then gargle the solution and spit it out. Do NOT swallow it. For example, one drop of tea tree oil in a glass of water can be gargled for sore throat discomfort. Bath: Drops of essential oils are added to bath water in a dispersant immediately before stepping in. This method results in absorption through the skin, as well as inhalation of the volatilized essential oil. A few tablespoons of full cream milk can be used as a dispersant. Remember, essential oils are not water soluble; thus they will float on top of the bath and skin passing through the oil will be exposed to full strength essential oil. Bath salts can also be used to disperse essential oils. A relaxing bath base can be made by mixing one part baking soda, two parts Epsom salts, and three parts sea salt. Add six drops of true lavender essential oil to about two tablespoons of this mixture and mix it into bath water just before entering. Massage: Drops of essential oil are added to a natural carrier oil and applied to skin areas with gentle rubbing. As noted earlier, massage blends should not exceed 1% concentration of essential oils (one drop in a teaspoon) for adults. For children, concentration should not exceed

0.25% for infants, 0.5% for toddlers age 6 months to 2 years, and 1% for children 2 years and older. The choice of essential oils for massage depends on the desired effect. How does internal application work? Essential oils can be applied internally in several ways including oral ingestion and suppositories, but remember that in the U.S. the ingestion of essential oils is only recommended under the supervision of a licensed healthcare provider. References

Allspice Essential Oil Properties: Anaesthetic, analgesic, anti oxidant, anti septic, carminative, relaxant, rubefacient, stimulant and tonic. Health Benefits: Induce numbness, pain relief, relaxes body & mind, brings redness in skin, stimulates functions Angelica Essential Oil Properties: Anti spasmodic, carminative, depurative, diaphoretic, digestive, diuretic, hepatic, emenagogue, expectorant, febrifuge, nervine, stimulant, stomachic and tonic Health Benefits: Relaxes spasm, removes gases, purifies blood, promotes perspiration, promotes digestion, increase urination & removes toxins, good for liver, opens obstructed menstruations, expells phlegm & catarrh, reduces fever, cures nervous disorders, stimulates functions, good for stomach, tones up body Anise Essential Oil Properties: Anti epileptic & anti hysteric, anti rheumatic, anti septic, anti spasmodic, aperient, carminative, cordial, decongestant, digestive, expectorant, insecticide, sedative, stimulant and vermifuge. Health Benefits: Treats rheumatism & arthritis, protects against septic, relaxes spasm, purgative, removes gases, warming, clears congestion & eases breathing, facilitates digestion, expells phlegm & catarrh, kills & repells insects, worms and lice, nervous afflictions, stimulates functions Basil Essential Oil Properties: Carminative, anti spasmodic, analgesic, anti bacterial, opthalmic Health Benefits: Skin care, indigestion, respiratory problems, infections, stress disorder, blood circulation, pain relief, vomiting. More on Basil Bay Essential Oil Properties: Anti septic, anti biotic, anti neuralgic, anti spasmodic, analgesic, aperitif, astringent, cholagogue, emenagogue, febrifuge, insecticide, sedative, stomachic, sudorific and tonic. Health Benefits: Protects against septic, inhibits microbial growth, gives relief from pain of neuralgia, relaxes spasm, pain relief, increases appetite, tightens gums & muscles and helps stop hair fall & haemorrhage, promotes bile secretion, opens obstructed menstruations, reduces fever, kills & repells insects, sedates inflammations & nervous afflictions, good for stomach, increases perspiration & removal of toxins, tones up body Benzoin Essential Oil Properties: Anti depressant, carminative, cordial, deodorant, disinfectant, relaxant, diuretic, expectorant, anti septic, vulnerary, astringent, anti inflammatory, anti rheumatic and sedative. Health Benefits: Uplifts mood and fights depression, removes gases and does not let them build up, warming for the respiratory system, drives away body odour, cures infections, relaxes, promotes urination and removal of toxins, protects wounds, strengthens gums and stops haemorrhage, cures inflammation, improves circulation and removes toxins like uric acid and helps cure arthritis, calms anxiety and tension

Bergamot Essential Oil Properties: Deodorant, vulnerary, vermifuge, anti biotic, anti septic, anti spasmodic, sedative, analgesic, anti depressant, disinfectant, febrifuge, cicatrisant, digestive Health Benefits: Removes body odour, gives relief from spasm, suppresses pain, brings hope and fights depression, heals cuts and scars, promotes digestion More on Bergamot Birch Essential Oil Properties: Tonic, disinfectant, stimulant & anti depressant, analgesic, detoxifying, anti rheumatic and anti arthritic, diuretic, anti septic, astringent, febrifuge, germicide and insecticide, depurative Health Benefits: Stimulates functions, fights depression, reduces pain, promotes urination, protects wounds from being septic, reduces fever, kills germs and insects, purifies blood Bitter Almond Essential Oil Properties: Vermifuge, febrifuge, bactericidal, germicidal, fungicidal, sedative, anesthetic, aperient, diuretic, anti intoxicating, anti spasmodic, cure for hydrophobia Health Benefits: Kills worms, reduces fever, kills bacteria, germs and fungi, sedates and reduces inflammation, brings numbness and desensitizes, purgative, increases urination and helps remove excess water, salt, toxins and fat from the body, counters effects of intoxicants, cure spasm, helps cure hydrophobia Black Pepper Essential Oil Properties: Digestive, diaphoretic, carminative, aperient, anti spasmodic, anti rheumatic & anti arthritic, anti bacterial, anti oxidant Health Benefits: Aids digestion, increases perspiration and helps remove toxins from body, helps remove gases from intestines and does not let them form, acts as a purgative, cures spasm, helps cure arthritis and rheumatism by removing uric acid and other toxins, inhibits Bacterial growth, anti aging and neutralizes free radicals Boldo Essential Oil Properties: Anti inflammatory, anti rheumatic, anti septic, cholagogue, digestive, diuretic, hepatic, insecticide, narcotic, stimulant and vermifuge. Health Benefits: Sedates inflammations, treats rheumatism & arthritis, protects against septic, promotes bile secretion, facilitates digestion, increases urination & removal of toxins, good for liver, kills & repells insects, intoxicating, stimulates functions, kills worms Buchu Essential Oil Properties: Anti septic, anti rheumatic & anti arthritic, carminative, digestive, diuretic, insecticide and tonic. Health Benefits: Protects against septic, treats rheumatism & arthritis, removes gases, facilitates digestion, increases urination & removal of toxins, kills & repells insects, tones up body Cajuput Essential Oil Properties: Anti septic, cosmetic, bactericide, insecticide, decongestant, analgesic, expectorant, febrifuge, vermifuge, anti spasmodic, anti neuralgic, carminative, stimulant, tonic, sudorific,

emenagogue Health Benefits: Protects wounds from septic, takes care of skin, kills bacteria and insects, cures congestion in respiratory system, reduces pain, cures coughs, reduces fever, cures spasm, gives relief from pain of neuralgia, removes gases and does not let them form, stimulates secretions and nerves, tones up organic systems, increases perspiration, gives relief from obstructed menses and makes them regular Calamus Essential Oil Properties: Anti rheumatic, anti spasmodic, cephalic, circulatory, memory boosting, nervine, stimulant and tranquilizing. Health Benefits: Treats rheumatism & arthritis, relaxes spasm, inhibits microbial growth, good for brain & boosts memory, increases blood & lymph circulation, cures nervous disorders, stimulates functions, induce sleep Camomile Essential Oil Properties: Anti spasmodic, anti septic, anti biotic, anti depressant, anti neuralgic, anti phlogistic, carminative, cholagogue, cicatrisant, emenagogue, analgesic, febrifuge, hepatic, sedative, nervine, digestive, tonic, anti spasmodic, bactericidal, sudorific, stomachic, anti inflammatory, anti infectious, vermifuge, vulnerary Health Benefits: Cures spasm, protects wounds from being septic and infection, checks biotic growth or infections, fights depression and uplifts mood, cures neuralgic pain by reducing swelling in the vessels, soothes inflammation due to fever, removes gases, promotes discharge of bile, helps fading away of scars and after-marks, opens up obstructed menses and regularises them, cures pain, reduces fever, good for liver, sedates inflammation and hyper-reactions, restores health of nervous system, aids digestion, tones up all aspects of health, cures spasm, kills bacteria, increases perspiration, improves functioning of stomach, soothes inflammation, fights infections, kills worms, promotes healing up of wounds Camphor Essential Oil Properties: Stimulant, anti spasmodic, anti septic, decongestant, anesthetic, sedative, nervouspacifier, anti neuralgic, anti inflammatory, disinfectant, insecticide Health Benefits: Stimulates discharges and other systems, cures spasm, protects wounds from infections, opens up congestion, desensitizes and acts as local anaesthetic, calms down nervous disturbances, cures neuralgic pain, soothes inflammation, fights infections, kills insects Caraway Essential Oil Properties: Galactogogue, anti histaminic, anti septic, cardiac, anti spasmodic, carminative, digestive, stomachic, disinfectant, diuretic, emenagogue, expectorant, aperitif, astringent, insecticide, stimulant, tonic, vermifuge Health Benefits: Increases milk in the breasts, curbs histamin to fight cough, protects wounds against septic, good for heart, cures spasm and cramps, removes gases, promotes digestion, maintains stomach health, fights infections, increases urination and helps remove toxins from body, makes menstruations regular and clear, cures coughs, increases appetite, contracts gums and muscles, kills insects, stimulates secretions and other functions, tones up health

Cardamom Essential Oil Properties: Anti spasmodic, neutralizes adverse effects of chemotherapy, reduces nausea, anti septic, anti microbial, aphrodisiac, astringent, digestive, stomachic, stimulant, diuretic Health Benefits: Cures spasm, fights nausea, protects wounds and incisions, checks microbial growth, increases libido, contracts gums, promotes digestion, maintains stomach health, stimulates secretions and other functions, increases urination and thereby removes extra salt, bile, water, toxins and fat from the body Carrot seed Essential Oil Properties: Anti septic, disinfectant, detoxifier, anti oxidant, carminative, depurative, diuretic, emenagogue, stimulant, cytophylactic, tonic Health Benefits: Protects wounds from septic, fights infections, removes toxins from body, neutralises free radicals and reverses effects of oxidation, removes gases and does not let them form, purifies blood by removing toxins, increases urination, opens and regularises menses, stimulates secretions and other functions, promotes generation of new cells and growth, tones up health, kills worms Cassia Essential Oil Properties: Anti diarrhoea, anti depressant, anti emetic, anti galactogogue, anti microbial, anti rheumatic & anti arthritic, astringent, anti viral, carminative, circulatory, emenagogue, febrifuge and stimulant. Health Benefits: Stops loose motions, fights depression & uplifts mood, stops vomiting, reduces milk flow, inhibits microbial growth, treats rheumatism & arthritis, tightens gums & muscles and helps stop hair fall & haemorrhage, fights viral infections, removes gases, improves blood & lymphatic circulation, opens obstructed menstruations, reduces fever, stimulates functions Catnip Essential Oil Properties: Anti spasmodic, carminative, diaphoretic, emenagogue, nervine, stomachic, stimulant, astringent Health Benefits: Fights spasm, removes gases, promotes sweating, opens obstructed menses and regularises them, stregthens nervous system, maintains stomach health, stimulates systems functioning in the body, contracts gums Cedarwood Essential Oil Properties: anti seborrhoeic, anti septic, anti spasmodic, tonic, astringent, diuretic, emenagogue, expectorant, insecticide, sedative, fungicide Health Benefits: Helps cure seborrhoea, heals wounds, fights spasm, tones up health, cause contractions in gums, muscles, tissues, skin and blood vessels, promotes urination and removal of toxins, water, salt and fat from body, promotes menstruations, cures coughs and cold, kills insects, sedates inflammations and nervous disturbances, inhibitis fungal growth and infections Cinnamom Essential Oil Properties: Anti bacterial, anti fungal, anti microbial, astringent, anti clotting, stimulating, cooling, carminative Health Benefits: Brain tonic, respiratory problems, skin infections, blood impurity, blood

circulation, infections, healing, pain relief, birth control, menstruation problems, breastfeeding, heart disorders, diabetes, colon cancer, indigestion, mouth freshener Citronella Essential Oil Properties: Anti bacterial, anti depressant, anti septic, anti spasmodic, anti inflammatory, deodorant, diaphoretic, diuretic, febrifuge, fungicidal, insect repellent, stomachic, stimulant, tonic and vermifuge. Health Benefits: Inhibits bacterial, microbial, viral & fungal infections and kills insects, protects wounds from being septic, relaxes spasm, sedates inflammations, drives away body odour, promotes perspiration, increases urination & removal of toxins, reduces fever, repells insects, good for stomach, stimulates functions, tones up body Clary Sage Essential Oil Properties: Anti depressant, anti convulsive, anti spasmodic, anti septic, aphrodisiac, astringent, bactericidal, carminative, deodorant, digestive, emenagogue, euphoric, hypotensive, nervine, sedative, stomachic, uterine. Health Benefits: Fights depression and uplifts mood, stops convulsions by sedating nervous disturbances, relaxes spasm, protects wound from septic, cures sexual weakness and increases libido, causes contractions, kills bacteria and checks Bacterial growth, removes gases, drives body odour, improves digestion, opens obstructed menstruations, creates happy feeling, lowers blood pressure, makes nervous system healthy, sedates emotions and anxiety, maintains good health of stomach, restores health of uterus Clove Essential Oil Properties: Anti microbial, anti fungal, anti septic, anti viral, aphrodisiac, stimulating Health Benefits: Dental care, toothache, cavity, infections, skin care, stress, headache, respiratory problems, earache, indigestion, nausea, blood circulation, blood purification, diabetes, immune system, premature ejaculation, cholera, stys More on Clove Coriander Essential Oil Properties: Analgesic, aphrodisiac, anti spasmodic, carminative, depurative, deodorant, digestive, fungicidal, lipolytic, stimulant, stomachic Health Benefits: Reduces pain, increases libido, clears spasm, removes gas, purifies blood, drives away body odour, promotes digestion, inhibits fungal growth and infection, reduces fat by breaking it down by hydrolysis, stimulates functions, maintains good health of stomach Cumin Essential Oil Properties: Bactericidal, carminative, digestive, diuretic, anti septic, anti spasmodic, detoxifier, emenagogue, stimulant, nervine, tonic Health Benefits: Kills bacteria and inhibits Bacterial infection, removes gas from intestine, promotes digestion, increases urination, protects wounds against septic, clears spasm, removes toxins from blood, regularises menstruations, stimulates functions, good for nerves, tones up health

Cypress Essential Oil Properties: Astringent, anti septic, anti spasmodic, deodorant, diuretic, haemostatic, hepatic, styptic, sudorific, vasoconstrictor, respiratory tonic, sedative. Health Benefits: Strengthens gums and contracts muscles, protects wounds against infections, clears spasm, removes body odour, increases urination, promotes perspiration, tones up respiratory system, sedates inflammations, anxiety etc Davana Essential Oil Properties: Anti depression, anti septic, anti viral, disinfectant, emenagogue, expectorant, relaxant and vulnerary. Health Benefits: Fights depression & uplifts mood, protects against septic, fights viral infections, opens obstructed menstruations & makes them regular, expels phlegm & catarrh, relaxes body & mind, heals wounds Dill Essential Oil Properties: Anti spasmodic, carminative, digestive, disinfectant, galactogogue, sedative, stomachic, sudorific. Health Benefits: Clears spasm, removes gases, promotes digestion, prohibits infections, increases secretion of milk, sedates hypersensitivity and anxiety, good for stomach, increases perspiration Elemi Essential Oil Properties: Anti septic, analgesic, expectorant, stimulant and tonic. Health Benefits: Protects against septic, pain relief, expels phlegm & catarrh, stimulates functions, tones up body Eucalyptus Essential Oil Properties: Anti inflammatory, anti spasmodic, decongestant, deodorant, anti septic, anti bacterial, stimulating Health Benefits: Respiratory problems, wounds, muscle pain, mental exhaustion, dental care, skin care, diabetes, fever, intestinal germs Fennel Essential Oil Properties: Anti septic, anti spasmodic, aperitif, carminative, depurative, diuretic, emenagogue, expectorant, galactogogue, laxative, stimulant, stomachic, splenic, tonic, vermifuge Health Benefits: Protects wounds against septic, clears spasm, increases appetite, removes gases and does not let them form, purifies blood, increases urination, promotes menstruations, fights cough and cold, increases milk secretion, helps clear bowels and constipation, stimulates systems, good for stomach's health, good for spleen, tones up health, kills worms More on Fennel Frankincense Essential Oil Properties: Anti septic, disinfectant, astringent, carminative, cicatrisant, cytophylactic, digestive, diuretic, emenagogue, expectorant, sedative, tonic, uterine, vulnerary Health Benefits: Protects wounds against septic, fights infections, induces contractions in gums, muscles and blood vessels, removes gases, heals scars, keeps cells healthy and promotes their

generation, promotes digestion, increases urination, promotes menstruations, cures cough and cold, sedates anxiety and inflammations, tones up body, ensures good health of uterus, promotes healing of wounds More on Frankincense Galbanum Essential Oil Properties: Anti arthritic & anti rheumatic, anti spasmodic, cicatrisant, circulatory, decongestant, detoxifier, emollient, insecticide, anti parasitic and vulnerary. Health Benefits: Treats rheumatism & arthritis, relaxes spasm, clears scars & spots, increases blood & lymph circulation, clears congestion & eases breathing, removes toxins, skin care, kills & repells insects, eliminates parasites, heals wounds Geranium Essential Oil Properties: Astringent, haemostatic, cicatrisant, cytophylactic, diuretic, deodorant, styptic, tonic, vermifuge, vulnerary Health Benefits: Induces contractions in gums, muscles, skin and blood vessels and stops haemorrhage, heals scars and after marks, promotes growth of cells, increases urination, stops body odour, tones up body, kills intestinal other worms, heals wounds Ginger Essential Oil Properties: Analgesic, anti emetic, anti septic, anti spasmodic, bactericidal, carminative, cephalic, expectorant, febrifuge, laxative, rubefacient, stimulant, stomachic, sudorific and tonic Health Benefits: Cures pain, stops vomiting, protects from septic, relaxes spasm, inhibits bacterial growth, removes gas, good for brain & memory, expells phlegm & catarrh, cures fever, clears bowels, brings redness to skin, stimulates, good for stomach, promotes sweating & removes toxins, tones body Grapefruit Essential Oil Properties: Diuretic, disinfectant, stimulant, anti depressant, anti septic, aperitif, lymphatic, tonic Health Benefits: Increases urination, fights infections, stimulates functions, fights depression and uplifts mood, protects wounds from being septic, appetizer, promotes removal of toxins, tones up health Helicrysum Essential Oil Properties: Anti spasmodic, anti coagulant, anti allergenic, anti microbial, anti haematoma, anti phlogistic, nervine, anti inflammatory, anti tussive, cicatrisant, expectorant, febrifuge, anti septic, cholagogue, emollient, mucolytic, fungicidal, hepatic, diuretic, splenic, cytophylactic Health Benefits: Clears spasm, maintains fluidity of blood, fights allergies, inhibits microbial infections, dissolves and clears blood clots, reduces inflammation due to fever, good for nervous health, reduces other inflammations, clears phlegm and reduces coughs, heals scars, reduces fever, protects wounds from being septic, promotes proper bile discharge into stomach, makes skin smooth and young, dissolves mucus, kills fungus, good for liver, promotes urination, good for spleen, promotes generation of new cells and cell health

Hyssop Essential Oil Properties: Astringent, stimulant, anti spasmodic, anti rheumatic, anti septic, anti spasmodic, carminative, cicatrisant, digestive, diuretic, emenagogue, expectorant, hypertensive, nervine, sudorific, tonic, febrifuge, vermifuge, vulnerary Health Benefits: Induces contractions in gums, muscles, skin and blood vessels, clears spasm, removes gas, heals scars and after-marks, promotes digestion, increases urination, promotes menstruations, treats phlegm and cough, increases blood pressure, good for nerves, promotes sweating, tones up body, reduces fever, kills worms, heals wounds Jasmine Essential Oil Properties: Anti depressant, anti septic, aphrodisiac, anti spasmodic, cicatrisant, expectorant, galactogogue, emenagogue, parturient, sedative and uterine Health Benefits: Fights depression and uplifts mood, protects wounds, cures sexual weakness and increases libido, cures spasm, heals scars and after marks, gives relief from phlegm and coughs, increases breast milk, opens obstructed menstruations and makes them regular, eases delivery and labor pain, sedates inflammations and nervous disturbances, good for uterine health Juniper Essential Oil Properties: Anti septic, sudorific, anti rheumatic, depurative, anti spasmodic, stimulating, stomachic, astringent, carminative, diuretic, rubefacient, vulnerary and tonic. Health Benefits: Protects wounds against septic, increases sweating, cures rheumatism & arthritis, purifies blood, clears spasm, stimulates functions, good for stomach, makes gums stronger and stops haemorrhage, removes gases, promotes urination, brings reddishness in skin, promotes healing of wounds, tones up health Lavandin Essential Oil Properties: Anti depressant, anti septic, analgesic cicatrisant, expectorant, nervine, vulnerary. Health Benefits: Fights depression, protects wounds from infections, reduces pain, heals scars and after marks, clears phlegm and cures coughs, strengthens nerves, helps heal wounds Lavender Essential Oil Properties: Calming, sleep inducing, analgesic, disinfectant, anti inflammatory, anti septic, anti fungal Health Benefits: Nervous system, insomnia, pain relief, urine flow, respiratory disorders, skin care, hair care, blood circulation, indigestion, immunity More on Lavender Lemon Essential Oil Properties: anti septic, anti viral, astringent, aperitif, bactericidal, disinfectant, febrifuge, haemostatic, restorative, tonic. Health Benefits: Protects from septic, inhibits viral & bacterial growth, strengthens gums, stops hair fall, lifts skin, induce firmness in muscles, stops haemorrhage, fights infections, cures fever, heals damages, tones body Lemongrass Essential Oil Properties: Analgesic, anti depressant, anti microbial, anti pyretic, anti septic, astringent,

bactericidal, carminative, deodorant, diuretic, febrifuge, fungicidal, galactogogue, insecticidal, nervine, sedative, tonic. Health Benefits: Reduces pain, fights depression, inhibits microbial growth, reduces high fever, protects wounds from being septic, strengthens gums and hair and stops haemorrhage, kills bacteria, removes gases, drives away body odour, promotes urination, reduces fever, stops fungal infections, increases milk, kills insects, strengthens nerves, sedates inflammations and nervous disturbances, tones up whole body More on Lemongrass Lime Essential Oil Properties: Anti septic, anti viral, astringent, aperitif, bactericidal, disinfectant, febrifuge, haemostatic, restorative, tonic. Health Benefits: Protects wounds from being septic, protection against viral infection, boosts appetite, kills bacteria, fights infections, reduces fever, stops haemorrhage, restores health and heals wears and tears, tonic for health Mandarin Essential Oil Properties: Anti septic, anti spasmodic, circulatory, cytophylactic, depurative, digestive, hepatic, nervous relaxant, sedative, stomachic and tonic. Health Benefits: Protects against septic, relaxes spasm, increases blood & lymph circulation, promotes growth & regeneration of cells, purifies blood, facilitates digestion, good for liver, sedates inflammations & nervous afflictions, good for stomach, tones up body Manuka Essential Oil Properties: Anti dandruff, antidote to insect bites and stings, anti bacterial, anti fungal, anti inflammatory, anti histaminic, anti allergenic. cicatrisant, cytophylactic, deodorant and nervous relaxant Health Benefits: Treats dandruff, counters venom, inhibits bacterial and fungal infections, sedates inflammations, checks production of histamin & cures allergic symptoms, clears scars & spots, promotes growth & regeneration of cells, drives away body odour, relaxes nerves Marjoram Essential Oil Properties: Analgesic, anti spasmodic, an aphrodisiac, anti septic, anti viral, bactericidal, carminative, cephalic, cordial, diaphoretic, digestive, diuretic, emenagogue, expectorant, fungicidal, hypotensive, laxative, nervine, sedative, stomachic, vasodilator, vulnerary. Health Benefits: Reduces pain, clears spasm & cures cramps, enhances libido, protects from septic, inhibits viral and Bacterial growth, removes gases from intestines, cures headache, warming, increases perspiration, promotes digestion, increases urination, opens up obstructed menses, cures cough & cold and dilutes phlegm, kills fungus, lowers blood pressure, cures constipation, good for nerves, sedates disturbances, good for stomach, widens and relaxes blood vessels, heals wounds Melissa Essential Oil Properties: Anti depressant, cordial, nervine, emenagogue, sedative, anti spasmodic, stomachic, anti bacterial, carminative, diaphoretic, febrifuge, hypotensive, sudorific, tonic. Health Benefits: Drives away depression, warming, cures nervous disorders, opens blocked

menses, sedates inflammation, clears spasm, good for stomach, inhibits bacteria, removes gas, increases perspiration & removes toxins, reduces fever, lowers blood pressure, boosts health and immunity Mugwort Essential Oil Properties: Cordial, digestive, diuretic, emenagogue, nervine, stimulant, uterine, vermifuge Health Benefits: Warming, facilitates digestion, increases urination & removal of toxins, treats nervous disorders, stimulates functions, maintains uterine health, kills worms Mullein Essential Oil Properties: Analgesic, anti inflammatory, anti septic, disinfectant, diuretic, expectorant, febrifuge, relaxant and tranquilizing. Health Benefits: Pain relief, sedates inflammations, protects against septic, fights infections, increases urination & removal of toxins, expells phlegm & catarrh, reduces fever, relaxes body & mind, brings sleep Mustard Essential Oil Properties: Stimulant, irritant, appetizer, anti bacterial, anti fungal, insect repellant, hair vitalizer, cordial, diaphoretic, anti rheumatic and tonic Health Benefits: Stimulates discharges and other systems, causes irritations, increases appetite, inhibits Bacterial growth and fungal growth, keeps insects away, boosts hair growth and stops hair loss, warming, increases perspiration, stimulates circulation and helps cure rheumatism, boosts health and immunity Myrrh Essential Oil Properties: Anti microbial, astringent, expectorant, anti fungal, stimulant, carminative, stomachic, anti catarrhal, diaphoretic, vulnerary, anti septic, immune booster, circulatory, tonic, anti inflammatory, anti spasmodic. Health Benefits: Checks microbial growth, tightens gums and muscles and stops haemorrhage, helps cure cough and cold, stops fungal growth, stimulates discharges and systems, removes gases, good for stomach, gives relief from phlegm, promotes sweating, helps wounds heal quickly and protects them from infection, boosts protection against diseases, improves circulation and protects from rheumatism & arthritis, boosts health and immunity, sedates inflammation, clears spasm Myrtle Essential Oil Properties: Anti septic, astringent, deodorant, expectorant, sedative Health Benefits: Protects wounds & ulcers against infections, tightens gums and muscles and stops haemorrhage, stops body odour, fights cough & cold, soothes inflammations & nervous disturbances Neroli Essential Oil Properties: Anti depressant, aphrodisiac, anti septic, bactericidal, cordial, carminative, cicatrisant, cytophylactic, disinfectant, anti spasmodic, deodorant, digestive, emollient, sedative, tonic. Health Benefits: Uplifts mood and fights depression, enhances libido, protects wounds against

infections, kills bacteria, warming, gives relief from gases, fades scars & after marks, promotes cell growth, fights infection, clears spasm, drives away body odour, improves digestion, takes care of skin, sedates anxiety & inflammations, tones up body functions. Niaouli Essential Oil Properties: Analgesic, anti rheumatic, anti septic, bactericidal, balsamic, cicatrisant, decongestant, expectorant, febrifuge, insecticide, stimulant, vermifuge and vulnerary Health Benefits: Pain relief, treats rheumatism & arthritis, protects against septic, inhibits bacterial growth, boosts health, clears scars & spots, clears congestion & eases breathing, expells phlegm & catarrh, reduces fever, kills & repells insects, stimulates functions, kills worms, heals wounds. Nutmeg Essential Oil Properties: Analgesic, anti emetic, anti oxidant, anti rheumatic, anti septic, anti spasmodic, anti parasitic, aphrodisiac, cardiac, vermifuge, laxative, prostaglandin inhibitor, stimulant and tonic. Health Benefits: Pain relief, stops vomiting, counters aging, treats rheumatism & arthritis, protects from septic, relaxes spasm, kills parasites & worms, enhances libido, good for heart, clears bowels, stops prostrate enlargement, stimulates, tones up body. Oakmoss Essential Oil Properties: Anti septic, demulcent, expectorant and restorative. Health Benefits: Protects against septic, soothing, expells phlegm & catarrh, heals damages & restores health Orange Essential Oil Properties: Anti inflammatory, anti depressant, anti spasmodic, anti septic, aphrodisiac, carminative, diuretic, tonic, sedative and cholagogue Health Benefits: Soothes inflammations, fights depressions & uplifts mood, protects against septic, enhances libido & cures sexual disorders, gives relief from gas, increases urination and removes toxins, tones up health & immune system, sedates emotional & nervous disturbances, increases discharges & secretions from glands Oregano Essential Oil Properties: Anti viral, anti bacterial, anti fungal, anti parasitic, anti oxidant, anti inflammatory, digestive, emenagogue, anti allergenic Health Benefits: Inhibits viral, Bacterial, fungal and parasitic infections, heals damages done by oxidation, soothes inflammations, promotes digestion, opens up obstructed menstruations, helps cure allergy Palma Rosa Essential Oil Properties: Anti septic, anti viral, bactericide, cytophylactic, digestive, febrifuge and hydrating Health Benefits: Protects against septic, inhibits viral & bacterial growth, promotes growth & regeneration of cells, facilitates digestion, reduces fever Parsley Essential Oil Properties: Anti microbial, anti rheumatic & anti arthritic, anti septic, astringent, carminative,

circulatory, detoxifier, digestive, diuretic, depurative, emenagogue, febrifuge, hypotensive, laxative, stimulant, stomachic and uterine. Health Benefits: Inhibits microbial growth, treats rheumatism & arthritis, protects against septic, tightens gums & muscles and helps stop hair fall & haemorrhage, removes gases, improves circulation of blood & lymph, removes toxins, facilitates digestion, increases urination & removal of toxins, purifies blood, opens obstructed menstruations, reduces fever, reduces blood pressure, clears bowels, stimulates functions, good for stomach, restores uterine health Patchouli Essential Oil Properties: Anti depressant, anti phlogistic, anti septic, aphrodisiac, astringent, cicatrisant, cytophylactic, deodorant, diuretic, febrifuge, fungicide, insecticide, sedative, tonic Health Benefits: Fights depression & uplifts mood, soothes inflammation resulting from high fever, does not let wounds go septic, increases libido and cures sexual disorders, tightens gums, muscles and stops haemorrhage, heals scars and after marks, promotes cell growth, drives away body odour, increases urination and removes toxins, cures fever, kills fungus and insects, sedates emotional and nervous disturbances, tones up body functions Pennyroyal Essential Oil Properties: Anti hysteric, anti microbial & anti bacterial, anti rheumatic & anti arthritic, anti septic, astringent, cordial, decongestant, depurative, digestive, emenagogue, insecticide and stomachic. Health Benefits: Sedates hysteric feats, inhibits microbial & bacterial growth, treats rheumatism & arthritis, protects against septic, tightens gums & muscles and helps stop hair fall & haemorrhage, warming, clears congestion & eases breathing, purifies blood, facilitates digestion, opens obstructed menstruations & makes them regular, kills & repells insects, good for stomachic Peppermint Essential Oil Properties: Analgesic, anesthetic, anti septic, anti galactogogue, anti phlogistic, anti spasmodic, astringent, carminative, cephalic, cholagogue, cordial, decongestant, emenagogue, expectorant, febrifuge, hepatic, nervine, stimulant, stomachic, sudorific, vasoconstrictor and vermifuge Health Benefits: Pain relief, induce numbness, protects from septic, reduces milk flow, reduces discharges, relaxes spasm, strengthens gums, stops hair fall, lifts skin, induce firmness in muscles, stops haemorrhage, removes gas, good for brain & memory, promotes bile discharge, warming, clears congestion & eases breathing, opens obstructed menstruations, expells phlegm & catarrh, reduces fever, good for liver, good for nerves, stimulates, good for stomach, promotes perspiration, contracts blood vessels, kills worms Petitgrain Essential Oil Properties: Anti septic, anti spasmodic, anti depressant, deodorant, nervine and sedative. Health Benefits: Protects against septic, relaxes spasm, fights depression & uplifts mood, drives away body odour, treats nervous disorders, sedates inflammations & nervous afflictions Pimento Essential Oil Properties: Anaesthetic, analgesic, anti oxidant, anti septic, carminative, relaxant, rubefacient, stimulant and tonic

Health Benefits: Induce numbness, pain relief, fights aging, protects against septic, removes gases, relaxes body & mind, brings redness in skin, stimulates functions, tones up body Pine Essential Oil Properties: Anti bacterial, analgesic, diuretic, energizing, anti septic, aromatic Health Benefits: Skin care, cosmetics, increases metabolism, pain relief, stress disorder, mental fatigue, urinary tract infections, respiratory problems Ravensara Essential Oil Properties: Analgesic, anti allergenic, anti bacterial & anti microbial, anti depressant, anti fungal, anti septic, anti spasmodic, anti viral, aphrodisiac, disinfectant, diuretic, expectorant, relaxant and tonic Health Benefits: Pain relief, cures allergies, inhibits bacterial, viral, fungal & microbial growth, fights depression & uplifts mood, protects against septic, relaxes spasm, enhances libido, fights infections, increases urination & removal of toxins, expells phlegm & catarrh, relaxes body & mind, tones up body Rose Essential Oil Properties: Anti depressant, anti phlogistic, anti septic, anti spasmodic, anti viral, aphrodisiac, astringent, bactericidal, cholagogue, cicatrisant, depurative, emenagogue, haemostatic, hepatic, laxative, nervine, stomachic, uterine Health Benefits: Fights depression and uplifts mood, soothes inflammation due to fever, protects wounds against septic, clears spasm, fights viral infections, enhances libido and cures sexual disorders, tightens gums, muscles and stops haemorrhage, inhibits Bacterial growth, promotes discharges and secretions, heals scars, purifies blood, opens up obstructed menses, stops haemorrhage, boosts liver health, cures constipation, cures nervous disorders, good for stomach, good for uterine health Rosemary Essential Oil Properties: Stimulating hair growth, disinfectant, anti septic, anti inflammatory, carminative, anti bacterial, analgesic Health Benefits: Hair care, skin care, mouth care, anxiety, mental disorders, depression, pain, headache, rheumatism, respiratory problems, bronchial asthma, indigestion, flatulence Rosewood Essential Oil Properties: Analgesic, anti depressant, anti septic, aphrodisiac, anti bacterial, cephalic, deodorant, insecticide, stimulant Health Benefits: Reduces pain, fights depression, protects wounds from being septic, enhances libido and promotes arousal, kills bacteria, good for brain and cures headaches, drives away body odour, kills insects, stimulates discharges and functions Rue Essential Oil Properties: Anti arthritic and anti rheumatic, anti bacterial, anti fungal, insecticidal, nervousaffliction deterrent, digestive Health Benefits: Neutralizes effects of poison, improves circulation & removal of uric acid,

inhibits Bacterial and fungal infections, kills insects, keeps nerves steady and sedates nervous afflictions, promotes digestion, sedates epileptic and hysteric attacks and helps cure them Sage Essential Oil Properties: Anti fungal, anti microbial, anti bacterial, anti septic, anti oxidant, anti inflammatory, anti spasmodic, cholagogue and choleretic, cicatrisant, depurative, digestive, disinfectant, emenagogue, expectorant, febrifuge, laxative, stimulant Health Benefits: Inhibits viral, Bacterial, fungal and parasitic infections and thus protects wounds against being septic, heals damages done by oxidation, soothes inflammations, clears spasm, increases production of bile, promotes digestion, fights infections, opens up obstructed menstruations, cures cough & cold, reduces fever, helps clear bowels, stimulates discharges and functions Sandalwood Essential Oil Properties: Anti septic, anti inflammatory, anti phlogistic, anti spasmodic, astringent, cicatrisant, carminative, diuretic, disinfectant, emollient, expectorant, hypotensive, memory booster, sedative and tonic Health Benefits: Protects wounds from infections, soothes inflammations due to fever and otherwise, clears spasm, tightens gums & muscles and helps stop hair fall & haemorrhage, heals scars & after marks, gives relief from gas, increases urination, fights infections, keeps skin smooth & free from infections, cures cough & cold, reduces blood pressure, increases memory, sedates nervous afflictions & inflammations, boosts health & immunity Spearmint Essential Oil Properties: Anti septic, anti spasmodic, carminative, cephalic, emenagogue, insecticide, restorative, stimulant. Health Benefits: Protects wounds from being septic, clears spasm, gives relief from gas, good for brain, opens up obstructed menses, kills insects, restores health and heals wears and tears, stimulates discharges & functions Spikenard Essential Oil Properties: Anti bacterial, anti fungal, anti inflammatory, deodorant, laxative, sedative and uterine Health Benefits: Inhibits bacterial & fungal growth, sedates inflammations, drives away body odour, clears bowels, sedates inflammations & nervous afflictions, restores uterine health Tagetes Essential Oil Properties: Anti biotic, anti microbial, anti parasitic, anti septic, anti spasmodic, disinfectant, insecticide and sedative. Health Benefits: Inhibits biotic, microbial & other parasitic growth, protects against septic, relaxes spasm, fights infections, kills & repells insects, sedates inflammations & nervous afflictions Tangerine Essential Oil Properties: Anti septic, anti spasmodic, cytophylactic, depurative, sedative, stomachic and tonic. Health Benefits: Protects against septic, relaxes spasm, promotes growth & regeneration of

cells, purifies blood, sedates inflammations & nervous afflictions, good for stomach, tones up body. Tansy Essential Oil Properties: Anti bacterial, anti fungal, anti inflammatory, anti histaminic, anti viral, febrifuge, insecticide, hormone stimulant, sedative and vermifuge. Health Benefits: Inhibits bacterial, fungal and viral growth, sedates inflammations, checks production of histamin & gives relief from allergic symptoms, reduces fever, kills & repells insects, stimulates production of hormones, sedates inflammations and nervous afflictions, kills worms Tarragon Essential Oil Properties: Anti rheumatic, aperitif, circulatory, digestive, deodorant, emenagogue, stimulant and vermifuge. Health Benefits: Treats rheumatism & arthritis, enhances appetite, improves circulation of blood & lymph, facilitates digestion, drives away body odour, opens obstructed menstruations & makes them regular, stimulates functions, kills worms Tea Tree Essential Oil Properties: Anti bacterial, anti microbial, anti viral, fungicide, insecticide, anti septic, balsamic, cicatrisant, expectorant, stimulant, sudorific Health Benefits: Inhibits Bacterial, microbial, viral & infections and kills insects, protects wounds from being septic, promotes absorption of nutrients, heals scars & after marks, cures cough & cold, stimulates functions & discharges, promotes sweating Thuja Essential Oil Properties: Anti rheumatic, astringent, diuretic, emenagogue, expectorant, insect repellent, rubefacient, stimulant, tonic and vermifuge. Health Benefits: Treats rheumatism & arthritis, tightens gums & muscles and helps stop hair fall & haemorrhage, increases urination & removal of toxins, opens obstructed menstruations & makes them regular, expells phlegm & catarrh, repells insects, brings redness to skin, stimulates functions, tones up body, kills worms Thyme Essential Oil Properties: Anti spasmodic, anti rheumatic, anti septic, bactericidal, bechic, cardiac, carminative, cicatrisant, diuretic, emenagogue, expectorant, hypertensive, insecticide, stimulant, tonic, vermifuge Health Benefits: Clears spasm, gives relief from rheumatism by removing toxins, protects wounds from being septic, kills bacteria, helps cure chest infections and cough & cold, good for heart's health, gives relief from gas, heals scars & after marks, increases urination, makes menstruations regular, cures cough & cold Tuberose Essential Oil Properties: Aphrodisiac, deodorant, relaxing, sedative and warming Health Benefits: Enhances libido, drives away body odour, relaxes body & mind, sedates inflammations & nervous afflictions, warming

Vanilla Essential Oil Properties: Anti oxidant, aphrodisiac, anti carcinogenic, febrifuge, anti depressant, sedative, tranquilizing, relaxing Health Benefits: Neutralizes effects of free radicals & oxidants and repairs damages due to oxidation, enhances libido & promotes arousal, inhibits growth of cancerous cells, reduces fever, fights depression & uplifts mood, sedates inflammation & nervous afflictions, promotes sleep, gives relief from anxiety & stress Vetiver Essential Oil Properties: Anti inflammatory, anti septic, aphrodisiac, cicatrisant, nervine, sedative, tonic and vulnerary Health Benefits: Sedates inflammations, protects against septic, enhances libido, clears scars & spots, cures nervous disorders, sedates inflammations & nervous afflictions, tones up body, heals wounds Wintergreen Essential Oil Properties: Analgesic, anodyne, anti rheumatic & anti arthritic, anti spasmodic, anti septic, aromatic, astringent, carminative, diuretic, emenagogue and stimulant Health Benefits: Pain relief & relaxation of body & mind, treats rheumatism & arthritis, relaxes spasm, protects against septic, spreads fragrance, tightens gums & muscles and helps stop hair fall & haemorrhage, removes gases, increases urination & removal of toxins, opens obstructed menstruations & makes them regular, stimulates functions Wormwood Essential Oil Properties: Anti helmitic, cholagogue, deodorant, digestive, emenagogue, febrifuge, insecticide, narcotic, vermifuge and tonic. Health Benefits: Kills worms & larva, promotes secretion of bile and other discharges, drives away body odour, facilitates digestion, opens obstructed menstruations & makes them regular, reduces fever, kills & repells insects, intoxicating, tones up body Yarrow Essential Oil Properties: Anti inflammatory, anti rheumatic, anti septic, anti spasmodic, astringent, carminative, cicatrisant, diaphoretic, digestive, expectorant, haemostatic, hypotensive, stomachic, tonic. Health Benefits: Soothes inflammations, improves circulation & removes uric acid and gives relief from rheumatism, protects against septic, clears spasm, tightens gums & muscles and stops haemorrhage, gives relief from gas, heals scars & after-marks, increases perspiration, promotes digestion, gives relief from cough & phlegm, stops haemorrhage, lowers blood pressure, good for stomach, tones up health & immunity Ylang Ylang Essential Oil Properties: Anti depressant, anti seborrhoeic, anti septic, aphrodisiac, hypotensive, nervine and sedative Health Benefits: Fights depression & uplifts mood, stops sebum secretion, protects against septic, increases libido and cures sexual disorders, reduces blood pressure, cures nervous disorders, sedates inflammations & nervous afflictions