Lavender is considered the most useful of all essential oils. Lavender is known to help relieve headaches, insomnia, tension and stress. Its therapeutic properties have been well chronicled all over the world.

Originally an inhabitant of the Mediterranean countries, this perennial herb has long been recognized for its exotic perfume and medicinal properties. Used in past by the ancient Romans for its healing and antiseptic qualities, the name itself comes from the Latin “lavare” or “to wash”. Tibetans still make an edible lavender butter to use as part of a traditional treatment for nervous disorders. Today, the essential oil of lavender is widely used across Europe and North America for a number of illness and medical problems.

Lavender is just a beautiful herb in your garden. It has gray-green, pointing leaves that grow in a bushy, spreading manner. It is crowned with tall spikes of beautiful pale violet flowers during summer. As an ornamental flower, lavender is unique, sporting exotic fragrance, beauty and a rich harvest of sweet smelling blooms. Old English Lavender, a popular inhabitant of a cottage garden, can grow up to two to three feet high, producing fragrant grayish leaves and blue/purple flowers. The more compact variety Hidcote, has darker blue flowers, grows to around a foot high and is very pretty in any flower or herb garden. The easiest way to propagate lavender is to cut softwood cuttings in the spring. However, as lavender benefits from a light pruning in early autumn, these clippings make excellent new plants too, as long as you protect them from frosts and winter bite.

With its flowery fragrance Lavender is the most versatile and useful oil. If you are a newbie to essential oils, you may need to start here by using lavender oil. Called the “Swiss army knife of essential oils”, because of its versatility, lavender is very soothing to sun burnt skin and is used to cleanse cuts and skin irritations.

Essential oil of lavender is used in aromatherapy practices to get rid of depression, fight tiredness and get relaxation. It has strong disinfectant properties and was even used on the wars to prevent infection and relieve pain. A drop of lavender oil mixed with a teaspoon of carrier oil, such as grape seed and massaged into the temples and back of the neck will drive away headaches. Mixed with any massage oil, it also helps relieve the pain of arthritis or aching muscles. Occasionally, just a small cotton ball with droplets of lavender near your pillow can help you drift off to a deep sleep.

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

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

About the author:

Find more great aromatherapy information at http://www.essentia laromatherapy.co.uk

As we all know, emotional tensions affect your body and health in a negative way. On the other side, you can influence your emotions by working with the body’s innate healing powers. Aromatherapy is an ancient, well-established healing art that brings much beauty and joy to everyone who uses it.

Other than the diluted, merely fragrancing products you usually buy in stores, the oils I recommend are genuine, pure, therapeutic-grade essential oils.

I use them myself, and I apply them for free on my live clients, if they wish.

Since my goal and vision is to heal the heart (the emotions), I focus on blends that do just that.

Here is a selection:

FORGIVENESS (contains 15 different oils, among them rose, sandalwood, and lavender)

GROUNDING (contains 6 oils, among them frankincense and myrrh)

JOY (contains 10 oils, among them jasmine and ylang ylang)

INNER CHILD (contains 8 oils, among them orange and neroli)

RELEASE (contains 5 oils, among them geranium and sandalwood)

SURRENDER (contains 7 oils, among them chamomile and angelica)

TRAUMA LIFE (contains 10 oils, among them valerian, rose, and frankincense)

“Joy” was made for depression, but is so beautiful you might call it a love elixir (as is “White Angelica”). “Peace and Calming” is used for anxiety or insomnia, and it is beneficial for crying babies, barking dogs, or children that act up. “Harmony” balances both physical and emotional energy centers/chakras.

In my Newsletter I present a different oil blend each month. http://www.missingmother.com/Newsletter.html

To get more information and to buy go to http://www.youngliving.com You can order for a reduced price using sponsor ID# 866273

If you like, write me an e-mail when you experience positive emotional effects. I am happy to include your testimonial on my website or in my Newsletter.

About The Author

Carna Zacharias-Miller, EFT-CC, EFT-ADV, is a spiritual writer and EFT (Emotional Freedom Techniques) practitioner. She offers live and telephone sessions and uses therapeutic-grade essential oils blends in her live sessions in Tallahassee, Fl.

E-Mail: info@missingmother.com

Website: http://www.missingmother.com

When you are trying to incite a romantic mood you need to have some good quality aromatherapy candles to arm yourself with. These aromatherapy candles will be what makes or breaks your romantic evening. You need to take special care when choosing the aromatherapy candles that you want to use as well. There is nothing like a terrible smell to turn someone off and nothing like a great one to turn them on. The trick is to know which is which. Remember that what smells good to you may not smell good to your partner.

When you are in the planning stages of your special night you need to find out what kinds of smells will thrill your partner. Men often respond well to vanilla. Some experts even claim that vanilla scents are a male aphrodisiac. So if your partner is a mail then you may want to get yourself some great vanilla aromatherapy candles. These will get him in the mood right as he walks in the door.

What makes vanilla such a good choice of aromatherapy candles is that it appeals to almost anyone, both men and women. Very few people dislike vanilla aromatherapy candles and they will not take away from anyone appetite. If you have some of these aromatherapy candles burning they will even make your dinner taste better. They put people in such a good mood and they make them hungry as well.

You can place your aromatherapy candles all over the house, but only in the rooms that you plan on spending some time in. You may want to mix in your aromatherapy candles with other non scented candles. If you have too many aromatherapy candles around the scent can become overwhelming and that is never good. You want your scented rooms to be subtle and stimulating. So one or two aromatherapy candles in a room at one time is a good idea.

You should also take care with the aromatherapy candles that you choose. If you want to mix the candle scents you need to watch carefully. Some scents will not mix together well at all. Before you have your special and romantic evening you need to test the smells together to see if they blend well. This is vitally important to your entire evening.

You may want to have your candles on the actual dinner table be regular non scented candles. Having aromatherapy candles on the table is probably not a very good idea as it can interfere with the flavors of the dinner itself. So keep the aromatherapy candles away from the dinner table and your dinner will be a bigger hit.

You can have aromatherapy candles in the bedroom as well but do not light these before you get in that room. You should never leave candles unattended for too long, especially if you have pets. They could knock them over and start a fire. Proper aromatherapy candle safety is necessary at all times.

About the author:

Candles HQ. Articles and information about all sorts of candles.

Copyright 2004 by http://www.organicgreens.us and Loring Windblad. This article may be freely copied and used on other web sites only if it is copied complete with all links and text intact and unchanged except for minor improvements such as misspellings and typos.

To repeat where we are, my sweetie (my wife June) had breast cancer a few years ago and we opted 1) to have a lymph-ectomy (mistake) and later 2) radiation (good decision). Regardless of whether it was a mistake we did it and the result is that she has to be very careful about not injuring her right arm. Last summer and fall she burned herself on our oven three times, one of them very seriously. There are other articles covering where else we have gone, but this is on how and when to use Aromatherapy.

Remember the effect of the Lavender oil? She happened to go on an outing with several girl friends right after the bad burn and in talking it over with them they decided to put therapeutic-grade lavender essential oil on the burn. She could feel it healing immediately and in spite of this being a large burn (2 x 6 ) it healed with only a very small scar, about the size of a half-quarter (like a half-moon shape).

Needless to say, we are sold on the therapeutic grade of essential oils from Young Living. They can be used in several ways, very effectively. These methods of use, or application, are: 1) Apply the oils directly to the bottom of the feet (more on this as we go on), 2) apply the essential oil directly to the bruised or wounded area, 3) diffuse your essential oils into the air, and 4) add certain edible essential oils to water or food for both exotic and exquisite flavorings.

1) In the Orient they have been using acupuncture and acupressure for centuries, perhaps millennia? What is perhaps more surprising is that essential oils, when applied to the bottom of the foot, are absorbed rather quickly into, and dispersed throughout, the body. As a liquid they are also immediately used by the body as anti-whatever and begin their healing actions almost immediately. Because they are pure therapeutic grade there is nothing within the compound to hinder the healing effect, nor to slow it.

2) Apply the essential oil directly to the bruised or wounded area. As in the example of the Lavender applied directly to the burn, apply Lavender or Melaleuca oil directly to the cut, scrape or bruised area. This will provide maximum relief directly to the affected area, where it is needed most. But be careful of the oils you use in this manner. When using spearmint, for example, keep it completely away from the eyes; it can cause severe itching and burning and lead to blurred vision for several hours.

3) Use a diffuser and diffuse your essential oils directly into the air you breathe. You will need to have a very good diffuser, such as the one available from Young Living, in order to do this more effectively. We have used several but discarded them all. Only the Young Living diffuser seems to literally radiate the oil scent throughout our home, but to do it efficiently. It costs about $100 US but it has proven many times worth it.

4) You can add add certain edible essential oils to water or food for both exotic and exquisite flavorings. Such spiciness will enhance your cooking and enhance the therapeutic (medicinal) value of your foods as well. You cannot use all essential oils in cooking so it might be prudent to purchase one of Young Living s how to books. They can be ordered directly from the web site.

Finally, all the good health and good nutrition and exquisite flavorings in the world will not make you healthy if your body cannot use the nutrients you are feeding it. Good digestion is the basis for good health. Without good digestion most of the nutrients in your body are going to waste you might as well have a gigantic tapeworm siphoning off your food. In order to enhance your digestion you should also be using, at least periodically, a proven organic greens product as a digestive aid, one such as Bio 88+ (Plus).

About the Author

Loring Windblad has studied nutrition and exercise for more than 40 years, is a published author and freelance writer. June s and Loring s latest business endeavors are at
http://www.organicgreens.us
http://junedawn.younglivingworld.com

Burning aromatherapy candles scented with pure essential oils is a wonderful way to add fragrance to a room. Not only does an aromatherapy candle smell nice, it can have therapeutic effects on the body and mind. Essential oils are extracted from certain aromatic plants and are used by aromatherapists to promote emotional and physical well being. When a few drops of a particular plant essence is added to a candle, its powerful aroma molecules are diffused into the surrounding air as the wax melts. When inhaled, the fragrance can help soothe and revitalize.

Aromatherapy scented candles can be made with oils from various types of plants. Aromatherapy essential oils can be made from different parts of plants, including flowers, berries, leaves and bark. As well as having a unique natural perfume, they have many different healing qualities. For instance, lavender is well known for its relaxing properties. When added to a jar candle, it can be used to create a soothing and peaceful atmosphere. The rich aroma of sandalwood can help ease feelings of anxiety and stress. As well as being used individually, oils can be used in blends to create uniquely fragranced candles. For example, a seasonal Christmas blend could include mandarin, cinnamon, clove or nutmeg. Or a refreshing mix of oils could include peppermint, lemon, rosemary or bergamot to help stimulate the senses.

For maximum aromatherapy benefits, candles should be made from natural based ingredients that don’t release toxins as they burn. Aromatherapy soy candles made from soybean wax are a popular option, as these are considered better for the environment than petroleum based candles. It’s worth reading the labels when buying a candle to make sure it contains pure aromatherapy oil and no synthetic fragrances or dyes. Using scented candles in the home is a simple but effective way of influencing the mood of a room, to create a tranquil and harmonious environment. Products such as candles, oil burners or other types of aromatherapy diffusers can make inexpensive gifts and offer a natural alternative to chemical air fresheners.

Adding aromatherapy candles to the home is a quick and easy way to enhance the atmosphere in a room and create a peaceful space to unwind in at the end of a busy day.

About the author:

Caroline Smith writes for www.aromatherapy-essential-oils.ws – Your source for aromatherapy essential oils, aromatherapy candles and aromatherapy diffusers.

What is aromatherapy? Aroma-generating oils are extracted from specific plants to be used therapeutically. Alcohol, oil or lotion is combined with these extracted oils to create the aromatherapy effect. Aromatherapy is when these formulated aromas are then massaged into the skin, inhaled through air disbursement, or poured into bath water for a soothing, calming effect.

Aromatherapy is also utilized for a wide variety of therapeutic treatments including physical and mental conditions, burns, infections, depression, sleep deprivation and high blood pressure.

Although there is little scientific evidence to support claims that aromatherapy is effective in the prevention or remedy of illness, aromatherapy supporters believe the oils encourage stress relief and self-healing. Persons with chronic illnesses or diseases should first consult their health professional before using aromatherapy as some side effects may occur.

Aromatherapy is used in massage, bodywork and other natural healing arts’ modalities; as well as in alternative instructional settings.

If you’d like to learn more about aromatherapy, please peruse Holistic Junction’s aromatherapy practitioners’ and schools’ directories today.

Aromatherapy
by C. Bailey-Lloyd/LadyCamelot in Conjunction with HolisticJunction.com

About the Author:
C. Bailey-Lloyd/LadyCamelot is the Public Relations Director & Staff Writer for Holistic Junction — Your source of information for Holistic Practitioners; Acupuncture Schools, Chiropractic Schools, Massage Therapy Schools, and Reflexology Schools.

About the Author

C. Bailey-Lloyd/LadyCamelot is the Public Relations Director & Staff Writer for Holistic Junction — Your source of information for Aromatherapy

Copyright 2005 Donovan Baldwin

Aromatherapy is the use of oils extracted from various, primarily fragrant, plants to aid in the relief of a range of physical or mental discomforts or illnesses. These oils, commonly referred to as “essential oils” are also used to enhance or encourage positive responses in the user. These oils may be used by direct application or by inhaling the aromas, hence the name “aromatherapy”. The inhaled aromas can be dispersed by candles prepared with the essential oils, by applying the oil to some object, such as a handkerchief or pillowcase, by spraying a mix of the essential oil and water into the air, or by means of a “diffuser”. A diffuser is a device generally available from essential oil providers which uses heat to disperse molecules of the chosen essential oil into the air.

Although long used in other parts of the world, such as the East and Middle East, aromatherapy is essentially new to Europe and the United States. In the last few years, in addition to an increase in the numbers of aromatherapy practitioners, a broad interest and corresponding retail market in aromatherapy, essential oils, and related items such as candles, perfumes, and diffusers has sprung up. It is now very easy for someone knowing little or nothing about aromatherapy to buy the necessary supplies and reap the benefits of aromatherapy.

EFFECTS OF ESSENTIAL OILS AND AROMATHERAPY

There are several essential oils, some having effectiveness in more than one situation. The list is not complicated, but is too long to go into in this article. You may wish to visit http://eherbsstore.com/aromatherapy/ to view a short list of some of the more common oils and their uses.

Overall, the effects may be divided into two basic groups. Some essential oils have actual physical effects. For example, eucalyptus oil can be inhaled to help clear sinuses and the respiratory tract. This would obviously relieve some symptoms of an upper respiratory infection (URI). Some oils may be used topically (directly on the skin, where they would usually be absorbed by the body, or on a wound) to possibly relieve swelling or fight certain infections.

Secondly, aromatherapy, usually thru the inhaling of the molecules of the essential oil, can affect moods and emotions. Since feelings and emotions are more and more appearing to be hard-wired to the health of the body, it is beginning to become apparent that improvements in such areas as moods can affect the actual health condition of the body in addition to simply making the individual feel happier, or more energetic, or more alert. Studies have shown, for example, that the status of someone’s emotional state can affect the ability of their immune system to fight off infection.

ESSENTIAL OILS IN OTHER PRODUCTS

Essential oils can be used in other products such as perfumes, lotions, cleansers and other cosmetics and personal care items. Essential oils are even used in such common items as household cleaners and toothpaste. Many people even use essential oils with other elements to create their own products. One company even offers a Health, Home and Beauty Kit so that those interested in aromatherapy can use essential oils to “…create hundreds of blends for everything from women’s concerns to cleaning your bathroom tiles.”

SCIENTIFIC STUDY TENDS TO SUPPORT AROMATHERAPY

Being an alternative form of healthcare, aromatherapy was, until recently, looked down on by the traditional medical community. However, with the increasing tide of evidence of the importance of the mind-body connection in health, and with an increasing volume of empirical and anecdotal evidence, the scientific community has begun to accept aromatherapy and the affect of essential oils on health…at least to some extent.

In the last few years, researchers at the Kurume University School of Medicine in Japan, the University of Miami School of Medicine, the University of Alaska, and the University of Pittsburgh, to name a few, have shown positive results in subjects through the use of aromatherapy. Subjects have experienced improved mental and physical functions after the use of essential oils. Subjective measurements have indicated positive experiences in participants, while objective measurements, such as electroencephalograms (EEG) have borne out these results as well.

Participants have used essential oils to improve their immune systems, improve athletic ability, increase alertness, ease depression, be more effective students, and to quit smoking.

PRECAUTIONS BEFORE USING ESSENTIAL OILS

While essential oils are natural products and may be inhaled directly with no harm, you should always be careful to merely inhale the aroma rising from the container, much as you would inhale the scent of a cologne or perfume. Do not place essential oils directly into nasal passages. Using a diffuser, candle, or item with the oil on it to release the molecules are the most common ways of experiencing the actual aroma.

Essential oils are stronger than what would be experienced when sniffing a rose, for example, so it is best to ease into their use. Essential oils usually come in small vials or bottles and are used a drop or two at a time. Products from various suppliers may have different concentrations, so the product from A may only need a drop while that from B needs two drops.

Take time off. Prolonged contact with the oils can result in allergic reactions in some cases or even mild toxic reactions. Always follow your distributor’s recommendations and make sure you have a distributor who can and will give warnings and recommendations.

If using a product claiming to be an aromatherapy product by virtue of its ingredients, always check to make sure that it is actually using essential oils. While the smell which reminds us of the fragrant flower or plant it copies might produce positive feelings in most of us, the genuine essential oil itself will be more effective.

Unless you are under the guidance of a skilled, experienced aromatherapist, you should never ingest essential oils. Children and pregnant women should never ingest essential oils.

Lastly, while essential oils used in topical applications or inhaled during aromatherapy can certainly produce beneficial results, they should never be used in place of professional medical treatment.

About the author:

The author first became fascinated with anything having to do with health, fitness, exercise, weight loss, and nutrition in the early 1970’s. He operates a herbal health site at http://eherbsstore.com where you may find aromatherapy products. You may find more information on health related subjects at http://nodiet4me.blogspot.com .

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 releasing and 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 part Neroli 1 part Vanilla 1 part Orange 1 part Sandalwood;
1 part Chamomile 1 part Bergamot 1 part Helichrysum

Single oils can also be used, and should be investigated so one can learn the different energies of each plant. For depression associated with negativity: Bergamot, Chamomile, Helichrysum, Neroli, or Sweet Orange. For a profound lack of joy, try Rose, Jasmine, Patchouli, or Ylang Ylang. For overthinking and worry, try Frankincense, Lemon, Marjoram, Myrrh or Vetiver. For pessimism, regret and remorse, try Clary Sage, Cypress, Hyssop, or Pine needle. For doubt of one’s capacity to cope with overwhelming situations, try Juniper Berry.

For cases of moderate to severe depression, professional help should always be sought. It is important to consider if you one requires professional help if the depression is overwhelming – while aromatherapy can provide support in a significant number of situations, it may not be for everyone. Essential oils can safely be used in conjunction with other treatments – consult your care giver to ensure there are no conflicts if medications have been prescribed.

About the Author:

Misty Rae Cech, ND is a degreed naturopath, iridologist and herbologist praciticing in Boulder, Colorado. She regularly employs aromatherapy and essential oils with her clients and friends.

Read more articles by: Misty Rae Cech, ND

This article is distributed by: www.iSnare.com

Aromatherapy can be used to relieve the discomfort of a
wide range of minor physical complaints including burns,
colds, flu, sinus problems, cold sores, eczema, headache,
indigestion, menopause, menstrual irregularities, muscle
aches, nausea and toothaches.

Diluted in healing carrier oil such as aloe vera,
essential oils can relieve the pain of minor burns. Just
add a few drops of chamomile, geranium, lavender, neroli or
peppermint oil to eight ounces of aloe vera to make your
own healing salve. Of course if you are suffering from a
serious third degree burn that exposes blisters, pus or red
and raw bleeding skin you should immediately take yourself
to a hospital!

Aromatherapy can also be used to ease the discomfort of
suffering from colds and flus. Oils such as peppermint,
eucalyptus, ginger, clove, juniper and rosemary can help
relieve congestion. Warming oils such as clove,
frankincense and pine can help relieve aches and pains.
Diffusing lavender or eucalyptus through the air can help
purify the sick room of any viruses as well as soothe sore
sinuses.

Mixing a few drops of geranium, lavender or tea tree oil
in healing carrier oil such as jojoba or aloe vera can also
help remoisturize dry cracked lips and heal annoying cold
sores. Applied to the face the same oils can help clear up
acne and blackheads.

If eczema is a problem then gently applying a couple of
drops each of any combination of chamomile, geranium,
lavender, neroli, patchouli or tea tree oil can help soothe
the pain as well as reduce the angry red appearance of the
skin.

Aromatherapy has proved to be so effective at relieving
headaches that there are now many commercial aromatherapy
preparations on the market concocted especially for this
purpose. Applying oils such as basil, eucalyptus, lavender,
linden blossom or peppermint (in a commercial cream based
mixture or prepared yourself in eight ounces of a carrier
oil) is thought to be as effective as aspirin and anti-
inflammatories at relieving a headache.

If nausea or indigestion is a problem you can try rubbing
a blend of orange, ginger or peppermint oils (in a carrier
oil) with a circular motion onto your stomach or you can
put a few drops on your pulse points or a hanky and inhale
whenever your tummy feels cranky.

If irregular periods or cramps are a problem the
inhalation or application of the following oils may provide
you with some relief: chamomile, clary sage, jasmine,
lavender, neroli, rose, sandalwood, tangerine, ylang ylang
and peppermint. Geranium is thought to be particularly
soothing for women going through menopause as it can
relieve hot flashes.

If you need an oil to relieve the discomfort of muscle
aches and pains try rubbing a lotion made of arnica oil,
almond oil or jojoba oil and a few drops of any of the
following essential oils: balsam fir, clove, ginger,
chamomile, peppermint or rosemary.

One of the best kept secrets of aromatherapy is using a
dab of clove oil to relieve a toothache. Apply the oil
directly to the affected tooth and it will be numbed and
disinfected until you have time to book that all-important
appointment to the dentist!

About the Author

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(c) 2005 Liz Santher – All Rights Reserved

Liz Santher is a aromatherapy enthusiast and freelance
author.

http://www.AromaTherapySecret.com
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The holiday season stirs up some of our most basic joys in life. The friendship and camaraderie we find at holiday parties and other social engagements is one of the highlights of the season. So is the fulfillment we gain through our special efforts to please our loved ones as we shop to find items that will make them smile. Moreover, since this is the season of giving, I encourage you to donate your time or money to those who lack of the warmth of a home, family and friends, or to children who won’t enjoy the delight of opening their gifts.

While the holidays are about giving, loving and joyous celebration, many consider this time of year to be stressful, lonely and expensive. If you’re feeling more like Scrooge than Santa, I offer the following aromatic blends to help you get into the holiday spirit, become more sociable, and open your heart to others who are unable to enjoy the holidays the way we do. Be ready to fully enjoy, laugh, socialize and share this holiday season by experimenting with these wonderful aromatic blends!

To create each of these blends, pour the essential oils into a 10-ml bottle and add organic vegetable oil to fill.

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Enhance Playfulness
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Remember how magical the holidays were as a child? This aromatic blend rekindles your childhood spirit, making you feel more daring, innocent and lighthearted!

-6 drops Orange
-3 drops Bergamot
-3 drops Basil

Massage your abdomen, solar plexus, neck and shoulders. Pour a few drops into the palm of your hands and inhale it deeply. Pour 20 drops of the blend into your warm bathwater and soak for at least 15 minutes.

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Increase Laughter
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Finding a way to bring more laughter into your life will ensure a longer, happier existence. This aromatic blend makes you more open to humor, and lightens your heart and mind. Enjoy the beauty of life!

-5 drops Orange
-5 drops Grapefruit
-1 drop Lemon Verbena

Massage your abdomen, solar plexus, neck and shoulders. Pour a few drops into the palm of your hands and inhale it deeply. Pour 20 drops of the blend into your warm bathwater and soak for at least 15 minutes.

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Improve Your Social Abilities
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Dread those social gatherings and holiday parties? This aromatic blend enlivens even the shyest souls.

-3 drops Basil
-3 drops Peppermint
-6 drops Grapefruit

Massage your abdomen, solar plexus, neck and shoulders. Pour a few drops into the palm of your hands and inhale it deeply. Pour 20 drops of the blend into your warm bathwater and soak for at least 15 minutes.

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Encourage Giving to Others
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This aromatic blend opens the heart and reminds us that the most valuable gift we hold within is sharing and giving to those in need.

-1 drop Rose
-2 drops Ginger
-4 drops Grapefruit
-3 drops Frankincense

Massage your heart chakra, solar plexus, neck and shoulders. Dare to wear it like a perfume! Pour a few drops into the palm of your hands and inhale it deeply. Pour 20 drops of the blend into your warm bathwater and soak for at least 15 minutes.

(c) Francoise Rapp, 2001. Discover the life-transforming power of aromatherapy! Internationally renowned aromatherapist and alchemist, Francoise Rapp, shares her expertise through aromatherapy classes designed for working adults and in her free weekly ezine, The Arom’Alchemy Newsletter. All this and more can be found at http://www.aromalchemy.com

About the Author

Internationally renowned aromatherapist and alchemist Fran oise Rapp was trained in the sacred ancient arts of anointing and practicing alchemy by priests and alchemists in France more than 10 years ago. She now lives in San Diego where she holds an International License in Aromatherapy. Her talents have been featured in RedBook Magazine, New Age Journal, Self.Com, and the nationally televised program “Men are from Mars, Women are from Venus.” Visit her on the web at www.aromalchemy.com.