Oil|Oil News and Videos
Mar
31
Yulia Berry asked:
The healthiest oils are made of olives, flax seeds, walnuts and cedar nuts. Peanut oil and corn oil may provoke an allergic reaction in some people. Nevertheless, all vegetable oils can treat many disorders.
Vegetable oils have the ability to increase the HDL (good) cholesterol that your body needs and this will help to cleanse the blood vessels from the deposits. Also, vegetable oils will lower the LDL (bad) cholesterol. It will prevent atherosclerosis.
Rapeseed oil, wheat seed oil, flaxseed and walnut oil are very rich in alpha-linoleic acid (ALA or Omega 3), a polyunsaturated fatty acid, which is very important for the biochemical processes in your nervous system. Lack of alpha-linoleic acid will lead to a decreased ability to learn, nerve signal’s deflection, an increased risk of thrombosis and it will decrease your body’s ability to resist alcohol. You can get your daily dose of alpha-linoleic acid, if you take 1 table spoon of rapeseed oil or eat 4-6 walnuts a day.
Sunflower oil, corn oil and soybean oil are rich in linoleic acid (LA or Omega 6), another polyunsaturated acid. Lack of it will slow your growth and will lead to transformations in your skin cells, endocrine gland, mucous membrane and *** organs. You can cover your need for linoleic acid, if you take 1 table spoon of the oils.
Olive oil, grapeseed oil, ground nut oil, peanut oil, flaxseed oil, sesame oil, canola oil and corn oil are rich in oleic acid, monounsaturated fatty acid, which is very important for the formation of brain cells and the right function of your nervous system. Olive oil is great in lowering ‘bad’ cholesterol and prevents and treats atherosclerosis.
All vegetable oils, except peanut oil, are recommended if you have high blood pressure, diabetes and small stones in your bile duct.
Your daily dose of vegetable oil should be 3-4 table spoons. Use it in salads or vegetable sides. Do not eat just one kind of oil or substitute all fat in your diet for only vegetable oils because your body needs different fats. But if you want to feel healthy and happy, vegetable oils should still predominate.
Before using it, make sure your vegetable oil did not turn rancid because it will lose all its healthy benefits and promote bad cholesterol. Keep the oil in your refrigerator or in a dark place because healthy substances and vitamins can be destroyed by light.
Try these great home remedies:
If you have a cold or cough, mix 1 table spoon of vegetable oil, 1 table spoon of honey and 1 table spoon of cognac or vodka. Heat the mix in a steam bath, then drink it and go to bed right away.
If you are constipated, mix 1 glass of yogurt with 2-4 tea spoons of vegetable oil and drink slowly before you go to bed.
If you are concerned about cellulite, mix any vegetable oil with ginger powder and rub the mix into your problem zone. This will improve blood circulation and your metabolism. Do not forget to wash your hands after the massage.
CORTEZ
The healthiest oils are made of olives, flax seeds, walnuts and cedar nuts. Peanut oil and corn oil may provoke an allergic reaction in some people. Nevertheless, all vegetable oils can treat many disorders.
Vegetable oils have the ability to increase the HDL (good) cholesterol that your body needs and this will help to cleanse the blood vessels from the deposits. Also, vegetable oils will lower the LDL (bad) cholesterol. It will prevent atherosclerosis.
Rapeseed oil, wheat seed oil, flaxseed and walnut oil are very rich in alpha-linoleic acid (ALA or Omega 3), a polyunsaturated fatty acid, which is very important for the biochemical processes in your nervous system. Lack of alpha-linoleic acid will lead to a decreased ability to learn, nerve signal’s deflection, an increased risk of thrombosis and it will decrease your body’s ability to resist alcohol. You can get your daily dose of alpha-linoleic acid, if you take 1 table spoon of rapeseed oil or eat 4-6 walnuts a day.
Sunflower oil, corn oil and soybean oil are rich in linoleic acid (LA or Omega 6), another polyunsaturated acid. Lack of it will slow your growth and will lead to transformations in your skin cells, endocrine gland, mucous membrane and *** organs. You can cover your need for linoleic acid, if you take 1 table spoon of the oils.
Olive oil, grapeseed oil, ground nut oil, peanut oil, flaxseed oil, sesame oil, canola oil and corn oil are rich in oleic acid, monounsaturated fatty acid, which is very important for the formation of brain cells and the right function of your nervous system. Olive oil is great in lowering ‘bad’ cholesterol and prevents and treats atherosclerosis.
All vegetable oils, except peanut oil, are recommended if you have high blood pressure, diabetes and small stones in your bile duct.
Your daily dose of vegetable oil should be 3-4 table spoons. Use it in salads or vegetable sides. Do not eat just one kind of oil or substitute all fat in your diet for only vegetable oils because your body needs different fats. But if you want to feel healthy and happy, vegetable oils should still predominate.
Before using it, make sure your vegetable oil did not turn rancid because it will lose all its healthy benefits and promote bad cholesterol. Keep the oil in your refrigerator or in a dark place because healthy substances and vitamins can be destroyed by light.
Try these great home remedies:
If you have a cold or cough, mix 1 table spoon of vegetable oil, 1 table spoon of honey and 1 table spoon of cognac or vodka. Heat the mix in a steam bath, then drink it and go to bed right away.
If you are constipated, mix 1 glass of yogurt with 2-4 tea spoons of vegetable oil and drink slowly before you go to bed.
If you are concerned about cellulite, mix any vegetable oil with ginger powder and rub the mix into your problem zone. This will improve blood circulation and your metabolism. Do not forget to wash your hands after the massage.
CORTEZ
Mar
08
Filed Under (Alternative Medicine) by oil
Marilyn Reid asked:
Aromatherapy usually involves a massage, however, it can be induced in a bath or filling the room with an aroma. Even though the essential oils used in aromatherapy are from plant extracts, these oils are very concentrated and should not be applied directly internally or externally.
Extracting essential oils is a lengthy process, and it means spending a lot for a small quantity of oil. Purchasing essential oils is also costly; however, you can get the therapeutic benefits of essential oils and aromatic oils quite inexpensively at home.
Step 1: Carrier Oils
In view of the fact that essential oils are very strong, they should be mixed in a different oil, also known as the carrier, before using it as a massage oil or perfume. You have various options for the carrier oil. Sweet Almond oil is the most favorable choice as it is absorbent and lightweight still it has the right fragrance of essential oils. Coconut, aloe-vera and avocado oils are natural moisturizers and therefore the best for dryer skin, whereas grape seed is best for oily skins since it is very light. If you are not sure about using the oils, buy extra virgin olive oil from the local grocery store. Even though we know this oil is best for cooking, it makes an exceptional carrier. Extra virgin is the premium type of olive oil. Besides, if it is good for ingestion, than it is definitely good for your skin!
Step 2: Essential Oils
You can find wide range essential oils at any health or natural food store. At these stores you are sure to find a range of various essential oils. If you cannot find them at these stores, there are websites that sell these essential oils. Try to find the ones in blue or dark brown jars; compared to clear glass as these colors keeps the oils much better. You can try only one or mixture of various essential oils for producing a particular effect.
Relaxation: ylang-ylang, lavender, sandalwood, chamomile and vanilla
Energy: spearmint, peppermint, lemongrass and eucalyptus
Meditation: sandalwood, ylang-ylang, frankincense and myrhh.
These are only some suggestions; there are various essential oils with medicinal properties. An important aspect you should keep in mind about essential oils is that the smaller the amount you use, the more beneficial it is for you! Essential oils are very strong, so you need not to use more to create an effective, strong fragrance.
Step 3: Mix and Use
Wherever you get hold of essential oils, you must find small dark colored glass bottles. Ensure that you check how many fluid ounces every bottle holds. Put 10 to 12 drops of essential oil for every ounce of carrier oil, and use just 15 drops of essential oil for every ounce of the carrier. Consequently, if you are making an ounce of relaxing massage oil, put five drops of chamomile and five drops of lavender. After a day or so add more drops if you want a stronger fragrance.
GABRIEL
Aromatherapy usually involves a massage, however, it can be induced in a bath or filling the room with an aroma. Even though the essential oils used in aromatherapy are from plant extracts, these oils are very concentrated and should not be applied directly internally or externally.
Extracting essential oils is a lengthy process, and it means spending a lot for a small quantity of oil. Purchasing essential oils is also costly; however, you can get the therapeutic benefits of essential oils and aromatic oils quite inexpensively at home.
Step 1: Carrier Oils
In view of the fact that essential oils are very strong, they should be mixed in a different oil, also known as the carrier, before using it as a massage oil or perfume. You have various options for the carrier oil. Sweet Almond oil is the most favorable choice as it is absorbent and lightweight still it has the right fragrance of essential oils. Coconut, aloe-vera and avocado oils are natural moisturizers and therefore the best for dryer skin, whereas grape seed is best for oily skins since it is very light. If you are not sure about using the oils, buy extra virgin olive oil from the local grocery store. Even though we know this oil is best for cooking, it makes an exceptional carrier. Extra virgin is the premium type of olive oil. Besides, if it is good for ingestion, than it is definitely good for your skin!
Step 2: Essential Oils
You can find wide range essential oils at any health or natural food store. At these stores you are sure to find a range of various essential oils. If you cannot find them at these stores, there are websites that sell these essential oils. Try to find the ones in blue or dark brown jars; compared to clear glass as these colors keeps the oils much better. You can try only one or mixture of various essential oils for producing a particular effect.
Relaxation: ylang-ylang, lavender, sandalwood, chamomile and vanilla
Energy: spearmint, peppermint, lemongrass and eucalyptus
Meditation: sandalwood, ylang-ylang, frankincense and myrhh.
These are only some suggestions; there are various essential oils with medicinal properties. An important aspect you should keep in mind about essential oils is that the smaller the amount you use, the more beneficial it is for you! Essential oils are very strong, so you need not to use more to create an effective, strong fragrance.
Step 3: Mix and Use
Wherever you get hold of essential oils, you must find small dark colored glass bottles. Ensure that you check how many fluid ounces every bottle holds. Put 10 to 12 drops of essential oil for every ounce of carrier oil, and use just 15 drops of essential oil for every ounce of the carrier. Consequently, if you are making an ounce of relaxing massage oil, put five drops of chamomile and five drops of lavender. After a day or so add more drops if you want a stronger fragrance.
GABRIEL
Feb
01
Filed Under (Alternative Medicine) by oil
Dr Danny Siegenthaler asked:
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.
BERNIE
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.
BERNIE
Jan
18
Filed Under (Alternative Medicine) by oil
Fran Black asked:
It is important to learn not only about the variety of essentials oils and their benefits, but also the way to properly combine them with a carrier oil before applying to the skin. Essential oils are concentrated and alone are very potent. Carrier oils carry essential oils to the skin safely. If essential oils are applied directly to the skin they can irritate it and have a negative effect instead of fulfilling their helpful, healing purpose.
Carrier oils are most often derived from plants, and include apricot kernel, sweet almond, grape-seed and many others. They not only carry other oils to the skin, but in and of themselves have beneficial properties such as vitamins to nourish the skin and moisturizing for dry skin. Carrier oils do not usually have a strong fragrance and therefore allows for the scent of the essential oil to successfully be delivered when applied to the skin. The ratio of application should be 3 drops of essential oil to each teaspoon of carrier oil. You can mix this in your hand, if it is going to be applied directly to the body or for immediate use. Because carrier oils do not evaporate like essential oils, they are a necessary component for successful application to the body. Carrier oils can go rancid and therefore should be checked before use. Mineral oil should not be used as a carrier oil. Mineral oil is liquid petroleum and acts as a sealant over the skin, preventing absorption of moisture. When scented, it is called baby oil, but is also used without fragrance and applied to butcher blocks to prevent cracking and taking internally for constipation.
It is important to investigate quality of products in aromatherapy. Both in choosing essential oils and their carrier oils. Although a company will claim a products purity, it is important to research the integrity of such claims. It is suggested to go with reputable and well used products. Ask those who are currently using aromatherapy and get advice before venturing out on your own.
Jojoba is an excellent carrier oil, which is really not an oil at all, but a liquid wax derived from the plants seeds. The properties of jojoba are such that it is easily absorbed into the skin and is used in many cosmetics. The liquid wax properties from this plant are similar to those in the human skin created by sebaceous glands. Making it a natural choice for a carrier oil, nourishing and hydrating the skin beautifully. There are many other carrier oils that are useful, but the jojoba is one of the favorites.
Essential oils are concentrated and therefore, potent. They can cause skin irritations if applied directly to the skin without a carrier oil. You should avoid the eye area when using essential oils and do not take internally as many are toxic. Do not leave oils where children can get into them. Pregnant women and children should not use essential oils unless under the direction of a experienced practitioner as there are types of oils which are dangerous for these individuals. Allergic reactions are possible, to test skin sensitivity try on a small area first to see if there is any reaction. Some oils also cause light sensitivity and should not be used before exposure to the sun such as lemon and cumin.
Combining carrier oils with essential oils can create a soothing experience for mind and body. Enriching your skin and helping it to be healthy aromatherapy can add just what you need to your beauty routine or home and work environment. Aromatherapy can be used in so many ways. Bathes, air freshener, perfume, on sheets, hair and body and just a few ways to bring the benefits of nature into your life every day.
ESTEBAN
It is important to learn not only about the variety of essentials oils and their benefits, but also the way to properly combine them with a carrier oil before applying to the skin. Essential oils are concentrated and alone are very potent. Carrier oils carry essential oils to the skin safely. If essential oils are applied directly to the skin they can irritate it and have a negative effect instead of fulfilling their helpful, healing purpose.
Carrier oils are most often derived from plants, and include apricot kernel, sweet almond, grape-seed and many others. They not only carry other oils to the skin, but in and of themselves have beneficial properties such as vitamins to nourish the skin and moisturizing for dry skin. Carrier oils do not usually have a strong fragrance and therefore allows for the scent of the essential oil to successfully be delivered when applied to the skin. The ratio of application should be 3 drops of essential oil to each teaspoon of carrier oil. You can mix this in your hand, if it is going to be applied directly to the body or for immediate use. Because carrier oils do not evaporate like essential oils, they are a necessary component for successful application to the body. Carrier oils can go rancid and therefore should be checked before use. Mineral oil should not be used as a carrier oil. Mineral oil is liquid petroleum and acts as a sealant over the skin, preventing absorption of moisture. When scented, it is called baby oil, but is also used without fragrance and applied to butcher blocks to prevent cracking and taking internally for constipation.
It is important to investigate quality of products in aromatherapy. Both in choosing essential oils and their carrier oils. Although a company will claim a products purity, it is important to research the integrity of such claims. It is suggested to go with reputable and well used products. Ask those who are currently using aromatherapy and get advice before venturing out on your own.
Jojoba is an excellent carrier oil, which is really not an oil at all, but a liquid wax derived from the plants seeds. The properties of jojoba are such that it is easily absorbed into the skin and is used in many cosmetics. The liquid wax properties from this plant are similar to those in the human skin created by sebaceous glands. Making it a natural choice for a carrier oil, nourishing and hydrating the skin beautifully. There are many other carrier oils that are useful, but the jojoba is one of the favorites.
Essential oils are concentrated and therefore, potent. They can cause skin irritations if applied directly to the skin without a carrier oil. You should avoid the eye area when using essential oils and do not take internally as many are toxic. Do not leave oils where children can get into them. Pregnant women and children should not use essential oils unless under the direction of a experienced practitioner as there are types of oils which are dangerous for these individuals. Allergic reactions are possible, to test skin sensitivity try on a small area first to see if there is any reaction. Some oils also cause light sensitivity and should not be used before exposure to the sun such as lemon and cumin.
Combining carrier oils with essential oils can create a soothing experience for mind and body. Enriching your skin and helping it to be healthy aromatherapy can add just what you need to your beauty routine or home and work environment. Aromatherapy can be used in so many ways. Bathes, air freshener, perfume, on sheets, hair and body and just a few ways to bring the benefits of nature into your life every day.
ESTEBAN
Jan
13
Filed Under (Alternative Medicine) by oil
Marilyn Reid asked:
Essential oils are concentrated liquids that are extracted from plants and these oils are very popular for therapeutic benefits. There are several elements in essential oils and each of them has a lot of health benefits. Organic essential oils are considered to be superior among essential oils. The source of organic essential oils are plants that are grown without using any pesticides, fertilizers or harmful chemicals on lands that have been certified by an authorized regulatory agent. Essential oils are considered to be organic only if the plant from where it was extracted was grown in good soil, through environmental friendly methods.
Organic essential oil is gaining a lot of popularity among nurses and aromatherapists who prefer its use in clinical treatments. According to them organic essential oils offer more vitality and healing powers as compared to the conventional essential oils. If you take into consideration the pesticide residues, organic oils are not only beneficial for the environment, but human bodies as well. The certified dealers of such oils make sure that the customers get organic essential oils that are analytically tested and certified under any one of the following official regulatory organizations:
Nature et Progress
The Soil Association
ECOCERT
Qualite-France SA
Agrobio
Several organizations certify Organic essential oils and organic plants so guarantee that the oil you buy is certified and guaranteed to have therapeutic benefits. As far as aroma is concerned, organic essential oils are much superior. This is because they are more concentrated than the regular essential oils. Besides the aroma, organic oils also have a potent flavor due to which they are also used for cooking. You can make a number of healthy, flavored dishes with organic essential oils. In comparison to the fresh and dried herbs used for cooking, these oils like organic basil oil provide a more appetizing taste. They do not contain the glycerol molecule that makes fatty oils greasy on the tongue. Due to this organic essential oils are healthier than fatty oils like sesame or olive oil. Instead of fat organic oils have antiviral, antiseptic and antibacterial components that can help you fight diseases. You can apply any organic essential oil to your skin through bathing and massage. Its steam can also be inhaled for some therapeutic effects. Since they are superior and more beneficial, they are bound to be more expensive than any other essential oil. The ones that are harvested in the wild are far more expensive.
Today you can find several suppliers offering organic essential oils, but they do not meet any of the requirements of an ‘organic’ product. So make sure that you buy essential oils that have a label certifying them as ‘organic’. Many reputable organic essential oil suppliers label the products with common botanical names, part of plant that was used, country where it originated, method used for extracting the oil and method of agriculture. If any essential oil package does not contain all this information then it recommended not using such oils because it can have adverse effect on your body.
ANTONIO
Essential oils are concentrated liquids that are extracted from plants and these oils are very popular for therapeutic benefits. There are several elements in essential oils and each of them has a lot of health benefits. Organic essential oils are considered to be superior among essential oils. The source of organic essential oils are plants that are grown without using any pesticides, fertilizers or harmful chemicals on lands that have been certified by an authorized regulatory agent. Essential oils are considered to be organic only if the plant from where it was extracted was grown in good soil, through environmental friendly methods.
Organic essential oil is gaining a lot of popularity among nurses and aromatherapists who prefer its use in clinical treatments. According to them organic essential oils offer more vitality and healing powers as compared to the conventional essential oils. If you take into consideration the pesticide residues, organic oils are not only beneficial for the environment, but human bodies as well. The certified dealers of such oils make sure that the customers get organic essential oils that are analytically tested and certified under any one of the following official regulatory organizations:
Nature et Progress
The Soil Association
ECOCERT
Qualite-France SA
Agrobio
Several organizations certify Organic essential oils and organic plants so guarantee that the oil you buy is certified and guaranteed to have therapeutic benefits. As far as aroma is concerned, organic essential oils are much superior. This is because they are more concentrated than the regular essential oils. Besides the aroma, organic oils also have a potent flavor due to which they are also used for cooking. You can make a number of healthy, flavored dishes with organic essential oils. In comparison to the fresh and dried herbs used for cooking, these oils like organic basil oil provide a more appetizing taste. They do not contain the glycerol molecule that makes fatty oils greasy on the tongue. Due to this organic essential oils are healthier than fatty oils like sesame or olive oil. Instead of fat organic oils have antiviral, antiseptic and antibacterial components that can help you fight diseases. You can apply any organic essential oil to your skin through bathing and massage. Its steam can also be inhaled for some therapeutic effects. Since they are superior and more beneficial, they are bound to be more expensive than any other essential oil. The ones that are harvested in the wild are far more expensive.
Today you can find several suppliers offering organic essential oils, but they do not meet any of the requirements of an ‘organic’ product. So make sure that you buy essential oils that have a label certifying them as ‘organic’. Many reputable organic essential oil suppliers label the products with common botanical names, part of plant that was used, country where it originated, method used for extracting the oil and method of agriculture. If any essential oil package does not contain all this information then it recommended not using such oils because it can have adverse effect on your body.
ANTONIO
Sep
03
Filed Under (Alternative Medicine) by oil
Duncan Bain asked:
Essential oils enter the body in two main ways. Most commonly they enter via the nose and our sense of smell identifies the smells and sends messages to the brain via the olfactory glands. This is where the therapeutic process begins. The effects such as relaxation or refreshment, of stimulating memories or giving a sense of relief or well being, can differ from one person to another. Some oils, such as Geranium, are known as “adaptogenic” and can have different effects on the same people at different times.
Getting the smell of oils to the nasal passage can be done by putting a few drops on a tissue, a few drops well stirred into a hot bath, using a water based candle oil burner or an electric diffuser that can fan the smells around a room.
Essential oils can also be absorbed dermally, via the skin after a massage. The massage can vary from a simple hand or shoulder massage, often used with the elderly or patients who are quite sick, to a full body massage.
How are essential oil blends for massage made?
The essential oils must not be used on the skin directly but must first be mixed with a carrier oil. The most popular are sweet almond or grapeseed but others such as calendula, peach kernel, apricot etc are used as different carriers also have their own properties such as tissue repair or skin enrichment.
When blending essential oils into a carrier oil for massage use a blend of no more than 3%. That is a maximum 3 ml of essential oils to 100ml of carrier oil. There are approximately 20 drops to 1ml.
All essential oils have differing characteristics as they are made up of different compounds. Read up about the oils and decide on two or three that will be suitable for the requirements you have.
Try and use oils with different “notes” associated with their smells. There are top, middle and base notes. A top note is typically a citrus oil which has a bright, instant aroma the hits as soon as you smell the blend. A base note is typically a wood based oil such as sandalwood which has a beautiful much more subtle smell that takes time to permeate the blend.
Are there any safety issues?
When used properly essential oils can benefit everyone. However there are some important guidelines that should be followed. If treating someone who is pregnant, or the elderly with sensitive skin, or young children use only a 1% blend. Try a little of the blend on the back of the patients hand first to see if there is any adverse skin reaction before proceeding.
Most importantly, whether using the oil blends yourself or on someone else there are “contraindications” to be aware of, and these are why, I believe, some essential oils should not be available via retail to someone who may not be aware of the dangers.
Some essential oils are “abortifacients” and should not be used in aromatherapy. Some oils, even some of the popular ones such as Rose and Lavender are “emmenogogues” (can regulate menstrual flow) and therefore should not be used during pregnancy or at least in the 1st trimester.
There are other oils that can be contraindicated with epilepsy, high blood pressure etc. Remember, never take essential oils orally, be careful not to rub your eyes with oily fingers and keep well out of the way of children or those not capable of reading instructions.
How do I know I am buying pure Essential Oils?
Adulteration of oils is becoming more widespread. Remember most essential oils come from agricultural areas, many in third world countries. The vast majority of oils are bought for the perfume industry and only a small percentage bought for aromatherapy. In aromatherapy the physical make up of the oil is all important and it should be absolutely true to nature. The perfume industry does not require this as they are most intent on getting the perfect smell.
It takes four tons of rose petals to give 1kg of Rose Otto which even at wholesale prices may cost in excess of £7000 per kg. That is a lot of money and with the large perfume companies putting pressure on margins, always trying to drive down cost prices, it is an understandable reason to cheat and replace say 10% of the product with some other cheaper substance. The change in smell is hardly, if at all, distinguishable but the therapeutic values can be destroyed.
Some aromatherapy and essential oil producers now test their produce by Gas Chromatography methods and guarantee 100% purity. If you are at all sceptical of an oil’s origin or purity ask for a certificate showing the oils components or similar evidence to support quality.
How can I find out more about aromatherapy?
Lastly, for those of you wishing to learn more about aromatherapy and perhaps even get a qualification at varying levels there are colleges throughout the country running courses under the umbrella of bodies such as ITEC, VTCT, NVQ, BTEC etc as well as a number of correspondence courses.
FREDERICK
Essential oils enter the body in two main ways. Most commonly they enter via the nose and our sense of smell identifies the smells and sends messages to the brain via the olfactory glands. This is where the therapeutic process begins. The effects such as relaxation or refreshment, of stimulating memories or giving a sense of relief or well being, can differ from one person to another. Some oils, such as Geranium, are known as “adaptogenic” and can have different effects on the same people at different times.
Getting the smell of oils to the nasal passage can be done by putting a few drops on a tissue, a few drops well stirred into a hot bath, using a water based candle oil burner or an electric diffuser that can fan the smells around a room.
Essential oils can also be absorbed dermally, via the skin after a massage. The massage can vary from a simple hand or shoulder massage, often used with the elderly or patients who are quite sick, to a full body massage.
How are essential oil blends for massage made?
The essential oils must not be used on the skin directly but must first be mixed with a carrier oil. The most popular are sweet almond or grapeseed but others such as calendula, peach kernel, apricot etc are used as different carriers also have their own properties such as tissue repair or skin enrichment.
When blending essential oils into a carrier oil for massage use a blend of no more than 3%. That is a maximum 3 ml of essential oils to 100ml of carrier oil. There are approximately 20 drops to 1ml.
All essential oils have differing characteristics as they are made up of different compounds. Read up about the oils and decide on two or three that will be suitable for the requirements you have.
Try and use oils with different “notes” associated with their smells. There are top, middle and base notes. A top note is typically a citrus oil which has a bright, instant aroma the hits as soon as you smell the blend. A base note is typically a wood based oil such as sandalwood which has a beautiful much more subtle smell that takes time to permeate the blend.
Are there any safety issues?
When used properly essential oils can benefit everyone. However there are some important guidelines that should be followed. If treating someone who is pregnant, or the elderly with sensitive skin, or young children use only a 1% blend. Try a little of the blend on the back of the patients hand first to see if there is any adverse skin reaction before proceeding.
Most importantly, whether using the oil blends yourself or on someone else there are “contraindications” to be aware of, and these are why, I believe, some essential oils should not be available via retail to someone who may not be aware of the dangers.
Some essential oils are “abortifacients” and should not be used in aromatherapy. Some oils, even some of the popular ones such as Rose and Lavender are “emmenogogues” (can regulate menstrual flow) and therefore should not be used during pregnancy or at least in the 1st trimester.
There are other oils that can be contraindicated with epilepsy, high blood pressure etc. Remember, never take essential oils orally, be careful not to rub your eyes with oily fingers and keep well out of the way of children or those not capable of reading instructions.
How do I know I am buying pure Essential Oils?
Adulteration of oils is becoming more widespread. Remember most essential oils come from agricultural areas, many in third world countries. The vast majority of oils are bought for the perfume industry and only a small percentage bought for aromatherapy. In aromatherapy the physical make up of the oil is all important and it should be absolutely true to nature. The perfume industry does not require this as they are most intent on getting the perfect smell.
It takes four tons of rose petals to give 1kg of Rose Otto which even at wholesale prices may cost in excess of £7000 per kg. That is a lot of money and with the large perfume companies putting pressure on margins, always trying to drive down cost prices, it is an understandable reason to cheat and replace say 10% of the product with some other cheaper substance. The change in smell is hardly, if at all, distinguishable but the therapeutic values can be destroyed.
Some aromatherapy and essential oil producers now test their produce by Gas Chromatography methods and guarantee 100% purity. If you are at all sceptical of an oil’s origin or purity ask for a certificate showing the oils components or similar evidence to support quality.
How can I find out more about aromatherapy?
Lastly, for those of you wishing to learn more about aromatherapy and perhaps even get a qualification at varying levels there are colleges throughout the country running courses under the umbrella of bodies such as ITEC, VTCT, NVQ, BTEC etc as well as a number of correspondence courses.
FREDERICK
Aug
30
Filed Under (Alternative Medicine) by oil
Marilyn Reid asked:
Essential oils, also known as volatile or ethereal oils are complex hydrophobic liquids with strong aroma. They are very volatile and complex in nature. Essential oils are concentrated extracts of flowers, spices, roots, fruits and leaves. Mostly, essential oils can be obtained by distillation. Besides you can also use expression or solvent extraction. They are used in cosmetics, perfumes and cosmetics. In order to get the maximum benefit from essential oils, it is important to use pure essential oils.
Some of the following tips will help you shop for the best quality essential oils:
Try to purchase essential oils from a reputable source: It is important to buy essential oils from a well known source, so that you do not get poor quality. Unfortunately, they are often diluted, cut, extended or altered in one form or the other that leads to impurity in the quality of essential oils. It is advisable to use pure, natural essential oils for health purposes. Make sure you ask the seller if he has the oils that are tested by an independent lab using Gas Chromatography or Mass Spectrometry. This test helps to identify the purity of oil and authenticity. It is observed that sellers who believe in communicating with their suppliers and maintain a close connection tend to get the oils tested. It helps them obtain pure products. Buying oils from a place of repute saves you from major disappointment regarding quality.
Never buy oils that are stored in plastic or transparent containers: Essential oils tend to lower the quality of the plastic material. Therefore, it should be sold and stored in glass containers only. Moreover, the glass container in which you wish to store essential oils should be dark in color, as light tends to affect the quality fo the essential oils.
Always enquire about the purity of the oil and the place from where the seller bought it. Besides you should also ask about the botanical plant names for the essential oil. Try to get answer for all such questions. If the seller happens to answer them correctly then you can be sure that he has clear knowledge about essential oils.
Always be on the lookout for synthetic essential oils. Many such oils are lilac, rain, carnation, strawberry or cucumber. As these oils are synthetic, it could mean that rest of the oils will also be synthetic.
Try to check for purity: It is important to identify pure essential oils. In order to do so put a drop of essential oil on a paper and check if it evaporates immediately or not. Ideally, it should evaporate without leaving any oily mark, as soon as it is put on paper. If it leaves a mark it means it is made with vegetable oil.
Fragrance oils, synthetic oils or perfume oils do not belong to the category of essential oils. These oils should not be substituted for essential oils, particularly when they are used for health related purposes. Fragrance oils do not have any therapeutic value and can often lead to sensitization and adverse reactions in many people.
GREGORIO
Essential oils, also known as volatile or ethereal oils are complex hydrophobic liquids with strong aroma. They are very volatile and complex in nature. Essential oils are concentrated extracts of flowers, spices, roots, fruits and leaves. Mostly, essential oils can be obtained by distillation. Besides you can also use expression or solvent extraction. They are used in cosmetics, perfumes and cosmetics. In order to get the maximum benefit from essential oils, it is important to use pure essential oils.
Some of the following tips will help you shop for the best quality essential oils:
Try to purchase essential oils from a reputable source: It is important to buy essential oils from a well known source, so that you do not get poor quality. Unfortunately, they are often diluted, cut, extended or altered in one form or the other that leads to impurity in the quality of essential oils. It is advisable to use pure, natural essential oils for health purposes. Make sure you ask the seller if he has the oils that are tested by an independent lab using Gas Chromatography or Mass Spectrometry. This test helps to identify the purity of oil and authenticity. It is observed that sellers who believe in communicating with their suppliers and maintain a close connection tend to get the oils tested. It helps them obtain pure products. Buying oils from a place of repute saves you from major disappointment regarding quality.
Never buy oils that are stored in plastic or transparent containers: Essential oils tend to lower the quality of the plastic material. Therefore, it should be sold and stored in glass containers only. Moreover, the glass container in which you wish to store essential oils should be dark in color, as light tends to affect the quality fo the essential oils.
Always enquire about the purity of the oil and the place from where the seller bought it. Besides you should also ask about the botanical plant names for the essential oil. Try to get answer for all such questions. If the seller happens to answer them correctly then you can be sure that he has clear knowledge about essential oils.
Always be on the lookout for synthetic essential oils. Many such oils are lilac, rain, carnation, strawberry or cucumber. As these oils are synthetic, it could mean that rest of the oils will also be synthetic.
Try to check for purity: It is important to identify pure essential oils. In order to do so put a drop of essential oil on a paper and check if it evaporates immediately or not. Ideally, it should evaporate without leaving any oily mark, as soon as it is put on paper. If it leaves a mark it means it is made with vegetable oil.
Fragrance oils, synthetic oils or perfume oils do not belong to the category of essential oils. These oils should not be substituted for essential oils, particularly when they are used for health related purposes. Fragrance oils do not have any therapeutic value and can often lead to sensitization and adverse reactions in many people.
GREGORIO
Nov
30
Filed Under (Alternative Medicine) by oil
Rebecca Noel asked:
Lavender Essential Oil is often referred to as the universal oil, because there is such a multitude of uses for this oil, such as cuts, bruises, burns, headaches, and insomnia.
LAVENDER (Lavandula angustifolia)
ACTION: Antiseptic, analgesic, antitumoral, anticonvulsant, sedative, anti-inflammatory. Lavender essential oil is beneficial for cleansing cuts and wounds and is ideal for skin care, since it prevents the build up of excess sebum, a skin oil that bacteria feed on. Lavender has also been clinically evaluated for its relaxing effects.
TRADITIONAL USES: The French scientist Rene Gatefosse was the first to discover Lavender’s ability to promote tissue regeneration and speed wound healing when he severely burned his arm in a laboratory accident. He immediately immersed his arm into a bowl of liquid sitting on a table near him.
The liquid was Lavender essential oil. The pain quickly went away and the wound healed in a short time without scarring. Today, Lavender essential oil is one of the few essential oils to still be listed in the British Pharmacopoeia.
INDICATIONS: Burns (cell renewal), sunburns (including lips), dandruff, hair loss, allergies, convulsions, herpes, headaches, indigestion, insomnia, high blood pressure, menopausal conditions, nausea, phlebitis, tumors, premenstrual conditions, scarring (minimizes), skin conditions (acne, dermatitis, eczema, psoriasis, and rashes) and stretch marks. It may be used to cleanse cuts, bruises, and skin irritations
FRAGRANCE INFUENCE: Calming, relaxing, and balancing, both physically and emotionally.University of Miami researchers found that inhalation of lavender oil increased beta waves in the brain, suggesting heightened relaxation. It also reduced depression and improved cognitive performance (Diego et al., 1998)
Aromatherapy uses Lavender essential oil when treating psychological problems such as nervousness, insomnia, stress, depression, melancholy, fear and irritability. This oil helps stimulate and regenerate the nervous system and bring a feeling of calm
OTHER USES: Lavender is a universal oil with many different applications. It may help arthritis, asthma, bronchitis, convulsions, depression, earaches, heart palpitations, high blood pressure, hives (urticaria), insect bites, laryngitis, nervous tension, respiratory infections, rheumatism, and throat infections.
A Note Caution: If you are going to put Lavender essential oil on a burn you had better make sure it is 100% therapeutic grade essential oil from a reputable company you trust!
When you actually have a burn that you are trying to treat with Lavender essential oil and you are unknowingly instead putting more caustic chemicals onto your burn this can be serious trouble.
Lavender essential oil that is produced commercially is often distilled for only 15 minutes with a steam temperature of up to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and up to 155 pounds of pressure. Although the oil is easily marketed and sold, it is of very poor quality.
Some people are more concerned about the price than the quality. You can easily sell inexpensive Lavender essential oil if you can produce a pound of oil in 15 minutes instead of a pound of oil in an hour an a half by using lower heat and lower pressure to preserve the integrity of the oil.
In the larger fields of the world at distillation time, you can see chemical trucks hooked into the distillers pumping solvents into the water already in the boiler. This increases oil production by as much as 18 percent.
However, when you put a chemical in the water and force it with steam into the plant, it causes a fracturing of the molecular structure of the oil, altering its fragrance and constituents. Also you cannot separate the chemicals from the oil after they come through the condenser.
Today most of the Lavender oil sold in America is a hybrid called Lavandin, grown and distilled in China, Russia and Tasmania. It is brought into France, cut with synthetic linolyl acetate to improve the fragrance, added to propylene glycol or SD 40, DEP, and DOP (solvents that increase the volume), and then sold in the US as lavender oil.
Oftentimes Lavandin is heated to flash off the camphor, and then synthetic linolyl acetate is added so that it appears as lavender. Consumers do not know the difference and are happy to buy Lavandin for $5 to $7 per half ounce in health food stores, and through mail order.
These synthetic and adulterated oils can cause rashes, burns, or other irritations. We wonder why we do not get the benefits we were expecting and conclude that essential oils do not have much value. When synthetic fragrance constituents are added, the essential oil becomes weaker and weaker with each stage of distillation.
Many people have jumped on the bandwagon because of the money making potential they see in essential oils. They buy cheap oils, rebottle them, label them as 100 percent pure essential oils, and market them without ever knowing their origin or who was responsible for distillation.
It is critical to make sure you are using 100% therapeutic grade essential oils from a reputable company that you trust.
To ensure that you are getting therapeutic-grade essential oils, find a company that submits their oils for routine testing by independent laboratories and whose oils are from organic source, distilled without chemical solvents at minimum temperatures and pressures, and are bottled straight from the still with no alterations or adulterations.
Oils with warnings on them about potential toxicity are probably not therapeutic or safe to use, except in massage, where they are diluted down to a 2-5% concentration in neutral carrier oil. The proof of an oil’s quality is in its manifested benefits when you use it.
A few ideas of the many ways to use 100% Therapeutic Grade Lavender Essential Oil:
Rub Lavender oil on the feet for a calming effect on the body.
Rub a drop of Lavender oil on your palms and smooth on your pillow to help you sleep.
Put a drop of Lavender oil on a bee sting or insect bite to stop itching and reduce swelling.
Put 2-3 drops of Lavender oil on a minor burn to decrease pain.
Mix several drops of Lavender oil with V-6 Vegetable Mixing Oil and use topically on eczema and dermatitis.
To alleviate the symptoms of motion sickness, place a drop of Lavender oil on the end of the tongue or around the naval or behind the ears.
To stop a nosebleed, put a drop of Lavender oil on a tissue and wrap it around a small chip of ice. Push the tissue covered ice chip up under the middle of the top lip to the base of the nose and hold as long as comfortable or until the bleeding stops (do not freeze the lip or gum).
Rub a drop of Lavender oil over the bridge of the nose to unblock tear ducts.
Rub Lavender oil on dry or chapped skin
Rub a drop of Lavender oil on chapped or sunburned lips.
To reduce or minimize the formation of scar tissue, massage Lavender oil on and around the affected area
Rub 2 to 4 drops of Lavender oil over the armpit area to act as a deodorant.
Rub a drop of Lavender oil between your palms and inhale deeply to help alleviate the symptoms of hay fever.
Rub several drops of Lavender oil into the scalp to help eliminate dandruff.
Place a few drops of Lavender oil on a cotton ball and place in your linen closet to scent the linens and repel moths and insects.
Place a drop of Lavender oil in your water fountain to scent the air, kill bacteria and prolong the time between cleanings.
Place a few drops of Lavender oil on a wet cloth and throw into the dryer, which will deodorize and freshen your laundry.
Put a drop of Lavender oil on a cold sore.
Diffuse Lavender oil to alleviate the symptoms of allergies.
Spritz several drops of Lavender oil mixed with distilled water on a sunburn to decrease pain.
Drop Lavender oil on a cut to clean the wound and kill bacteria.
Apply 2-3 drops of Lavender oil to a rash to stop the itching and heal the skin.
PLEASE NOTE: The information in this article is based solely on the use of 100% Pure Therapeutic Grade Essential Oils due to their high quality and tested purity.
The use of a brand of uncertain quality and/or purity will provide you with potentially dangerous, if not lethal, results. The author assumes no responsibility for your improper use of this information.
The statements about these oils have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These oils are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
ALVA
Lavender Essential Oil is often referred to as the universal oil, because there is such a multitude of uses for this oil, such as cuts, bruises, burns, headaches, and insomnia.
LAVENDER (Lavandula angustifolia)
ACTION: Antiseptic, analgesic, antitumoral, anticonvulsant, sedative, anti-inflammatory. Lavender essential oil is beneficial for cleansing cuts and wounds and is ideal for skin care, since it prevents the build up of excess sebum, a skin oil that bacteria feed on. Lavender has also been clinically evaluated for its relaxing effects.
TRADITIONAL USES: The French scientist Rene Gatefosse was the first to discover Lavender’s ability to promote tissue regeneration and speed wound healing when he severely burned his arm in a laboratory accident. He immediately immersed his arm into a bowl of liquid sitting on a table near him.
The liquid was Lavender essential oil. The pain quickly went away and the wound healed in a short time without scarring. Today, Lavender essential oil is one of the few essential oils to still be listed in the British Pharmacopoeia.
INDICATIONS: Burns (cell renewal), sunburns (including lips), dandruff, hair loss, allergies, convulsions, herpes, headaches, indigestion, insomnia, high blood pressure, menopausal conditions, nausea, phlebitis, tumors, premenstrual conditions, scarring (minimizes), skin conditions (acne, dermatitis, eczema, psoriasis, and rashes) and stretch marks. It may be used to cleanse cuts, bruises, and skin irritations
FRAGRANCE INFUENCE: Calming, relaxing, and balancing, both physically and emotionally.University of Miami researchers found that inhalation of lavender oil increased beta waves in the brain, suggesting heightened relaxation. It also reduced depression and improved cognitive performance (Diego et al., 1998)
Aromatherapy uses Lavender essential oil when treating psychological problems such as nervousness, insomnia, stress, depression, melancholy, fear and irritability. This oil helps stimulate and regenerate the nervous system and bring a feeling of calm
OTHER USES: Lavender is a universal oil with many different applications. It may help arthritis, asthma, bronchitis, convulsions, depression, earaches, heart palpitations, high blood pressure, hives (urticaria), insect bites, laryngitis, nervous tension, respiratory infections, rheumatism, and throat infections.
A Note Caution: If you are going to put Lavender essential oil on a burn you had better make sure it is 100% therapeutic grade essential oil from a reputable company you trust!
When you actually have a burn that you are trying to treat with Lavender essential oil and you are unknowingly instead putting more caustic chemicals onto your burn this can be serious trouble.
Lavender essential oil that is produced commercially is often distilled for only 15 minutes with a steam temperature of up to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and up to 155 pounds of pressure. Although the oil is easily marketed and sold, it is of very poor quality.
Some people are more concerned about the price than the quality. You can easily sell inexpensive Lavender essential oil if you can produce a pound of oil in 15 minutes instead of a pound of oil in an hour an a half by using lower heat and lower pressure to preserve the integrity of the oil.
In the larger fields of the world at distillation time, you can see chemical trucks hooked into the distillers pumping solvents into the water already in the boiler. This increases oil production by as much as 18 percent.
However, when you put a chemical in the water and force it with steam into the plant, it causes a fracturing of the molecular structure of the oil, altering its fragrance and constituents. Also you cannot separate the chemicals from the oil after they come through the condenser.
Today most of the Lavender oil sold in America is a hybrid called Lavandin, grown and distilled in China, Russia and Tasmania. It is brought into France, cut with synthetic linolyl acetate to improve the fragrance, added to propylene glycol or SD 40, DEP, and DOP (solvents that increase the volume), and then sold in the US as lavender oil.
Oftentimes Lavandin is heated to flash off the camphor, and then synthetic linolyl acetate is added so that it appears as lavender. Consumers do not know the difference and are happy to buy Lavandin for $5 to $7 per half ounce in health food stores, and through mail order.
These synthetic and adulterated oils can cause rashes, burns, or other irritations. We wonder why we do not get the benefits we were expecting and conclude that essential oils do not have much value. When synthetic fragrance constituents are added, the essential oil becomes weaker and weaker with each stage of distillation.
Many people have jumped on the bandwagon because of the money making potential they see in essential oils. They buy cheap oils, rebottle them, label them as 100 percent pure essential oils, and market them without ever knowing their origin or who was responsible for distillation.
It is critical to make sure you are using 100% therapeutic grade essential oils from a reputable company that you trust.
To ensure that you are getting therapeutic-grade essential oils, find a company that submits their oils for routine testing by independent laboratories and whose oils are from organic source, distilled without chemical solvents at minimum temperatures and pressures, and are bottled straight from the still with no alterations or adulterations.
Oils with warnings on them about potential toxicity are probably not therapeutic or safe to use, except in massage, where they are diluted down to a 2-5% concentration in neutral carrier oil. The proof of an oil’s quality is in its manifested benefits when you use it.
A few ideas of the many ways to use 100% Therapeutic Grade Lavender Essential Oil:
Rub Lavender oil on the feet for a calming effect on the body.
Rub a drop of Lavender oil on your palms and smooth on your pillow to help you sleep.
Put a drop of Lavender oil on a bee sting or insect bite to stop itching and reduce swelling.
Put 2-3 drops of Lavender oil on a minor burn to decrease pain.
Mix several drops of Lavender oil with V-6 Vegetable Mixing Oil and use topically on eczema and dermatitis.
To alleviate the symptoms of motion sickness, place a drop of Lavender oil on the end of the tongue or around the naval or behind the ears.
To stop a nosebleed, put a drop of Lavender oil on a tissue and wrap it around a small chip of ice. Push the tissue covered ice chip up under the middle of the top lip to the base of the nose and hold as long as comfortable or until the bleeding stops (do not freeze the lip or gum).
Rub a drop of Lavender oil over the bridge of the nose to unblock tear ducts.
Rub Lavender oil on dry or chapped skin
Rub a drop of Lavender oil on chapped or sunburned lips.
To reduce or minimize the formation of scar tissue, massage Lavender oil on and around the affected area
Rub 2 to 4 drops of Lavender oil over the armpit area to act as a deodorant.
Rub a drop of Lavender oil between your palms and inhale deeply to help alleviate the symptoms of hay fever.
Rub several drops of Lavender oil into the scalp to help eliminate dandruff.
Place a few drops of Lavender oil on a cotton ball and place in your linen closet to scent the linens and repel moths and insects.
Place a drop of Lavender oil in your water fountain to scent the air, kill bacteria and prolong the time between cleanings.
Place a few drops of Lavender oil on a wet cloth and throw into the dryer, which will deodorize and freshen your laundry.
Put a drop of Lavender oil on a cold sore.
Diffuse Lavender oil to alleviate the symptoms of allergies.
Spritz several drops of Lavender oil mixed with distilled water on a sunburn to decrease pain.
Drop Lavender oil on a cut to clean the wound and kill bacteria.
Apply 2-3 drops of Lavender oil to a rash to stop the itching and heal the skin.
PLEASE NOTE: The information in this article is based solely on the use of 100% Pure Therapeutic Grade Essential Oils due to their high quality and tested purity.
The use of a brand of uncertain quality and/or purity will provide you with potentially dangerous, if not lethal, results. The author assumes no responsibility for your improper use of this information.
The statements about these oils have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These oils are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
ALVA
Jul
06
Filed Under (Alternative Medicine) by oil
Joe Bella asked:
Aromatherapy offers many therapeutic and healing benefits by the different carrier and essential oils it uses, when properly blended in just the right amounts for any particular ailment or symptom. This means that the particular reason for the use of an aromatherapy product blend makes the determination of which carrier or essential oils are chosen for use. One of the most beneficial plant essences is that of citrus. Aromatherapy products made with citrus carrier oils are a refreshing and lively alternative compared to many other carrier and essential oils.
Citrus oils come from various sources of citrus plants, such as orange, lemon, lime and tangerine. Citrus oils are one of the most popular scents of essential oils and are often used in many perfume blends. This is because citrus offers an invigoratingly fresh aroma that features incredible stimulating effects to the senses and the skin. Aromatherapy citrus carrier and essential oils offer a clean wholesome aroma that invigorates the senses, although it also has the potential be cause skin irritations. If you have allergies to citrus, you would do well to choose a different type of aromatherapy product that features gentler carrier oil, such as rosehip seed oil.
Aromatherapy uses citrus carrier oil to aid in the absorption of essential oils into the skin, when applied in a healing therapeutic topical application or treatment. Aromatherapy oils contain more fatty oils than that of essential oils, however, they do not evaporate as quickly as essential oils, nor are they as highly scented. Once of the best features of aromatherapy citrus carrier oil is that it can boost your spirit as well as your metabolism while aiding in skin cell renewal. Citrus carrier oils provide the skin cells with the active regeneration they require to produce healthy skin while repairing unhealthy skin tissue.
Some of the most beneficial citrus oils used in aromatherapy are described below.
1. Orange Oil
Aromatherapy orange oil is extracted from the rind or skin of an orange and it evaporates more quickly than some other carrier oils. Citrus oils provide a nourishing non-oily aromatherapy treatment to your skin. Citrus oil offer anti-bacterial properties while being able to sooth the aches and pains of muscles. Orange oil is both uplifting and calming, while the scent of oranges encourage positive self esteem and balance for the emotions. Orange oil has a complimentary scent that blends well with several different oils while also being one of the most cost-effective oils used in aromatherapy. Orange oil is helpful for dull oily skin.
2. Lemon Oil
Lemon oil is extracted from the rind or skin of the lemon and it does not evaporate as quickly as orange oil. Lemon oil offers astringent qualities to tighten and tone your skin. Lemon oil promotes a sense of well being while relieving stress and fatigue.
3. Lime Oil
Lime is extracted from the rind or skin of the lime and it evaporates very quickly. Lime oil is wonderful non-oily carrier oil used in aromatherapy for its properties of being easily absorbed into the skin while toning the skin tissue. Lime oil also has properties of being an antidepressant and an antiseptic. Lime oil leaves your skin feeling refreshed and re-energized.
Citrus carrier oils, because of their nature should be stored in a dry, cool dark area to keep them deteriorating to quickly.
AUBREY
Aromatherapy offers many therapeutic and healing benefits by the different carrier and essential oils it uses, when properly blended in just the right amounts for any particular ailment or symptom. This means that the particular reason for the use of an aromatherapy product blend makes the determination of which carrier or essential oils are chosen for use. One of the most beneficial plant essences is that of citrus. Aromatherapy products made with citrus carrier oils are a refreshing and lively alternative compared to many other carrier and essential oils.
Citrus oils come from various sources of citrus plants, such as orange, lemon, lime and tangerine. Citrus oils are one of the most popular scents of essential oils and are often used in many perfume blends. This is because citrus offers an invigoratingly fresh aroma that features incredible stimulating effects to the senses and the skin. Aromatherapy citrus carrier and essential oils offer a clean wholesome aroma that invigorates the senses, although it also has the potential be cause skin irritations. If you have allergies to citrus, you would do well to choose a different type of aromatherapy product that features gentler carrier oil, such as rosehip seed oil.
Aromatherapy uses citrus carrier oil to aid in the absorption of essential oils into the skin, when applied in a healing therapeutic topical application or treatment. Aromatherapy oils contain more fatty oils than that of essential oils, however, they do not evaporate as quickly as essential oils, nor are they as highly scented. Once of the best features of aromatherapy citrus carrier oil is that it can boost your spirit as well as your metabolism while aiding in skin cell renewal. Citrus carrier oils provide the skin cells with the active regeneration they require to produce healthy skin while repairing unhealthy skin tissue.
Some of the most beneficial citrus oils used in aromatherapy are described below.
1. Orange Oil
Aromatherapy orange oil is extracted from the rind or skin of an orange and it evaporates more quickly than some other carrier oils. Citrus oils provide a nourishing non-oily aromatherapy treatment to your skin. Citrus oil offer anti-bacterial properties while being able to sooth the aches and pains of muscles. Orange oil is both uplifting and calming, while the scent of oranges encourage positive self esteem and balance for the emotions. Orange oil has a complimentary scent that blends well with several different oils while also being one of the most cost-effective oils used in aromatherapy. Orange oil is helpful for dull oily skin.
2. Lemon Oil
Lemon oil is extracted from the rind or skin of the lemon and it does not evaporate as quickly as orange oil. Lemon oil offers astringent qualities to tighten and tone your skin. Lemon oil promotes a sense of well being while relieving stress and fatigue.
3. Lime Oil
Lime is extracted from the rind or skin of the lime and it evaporates very quickly. Lime oil is wonderful non-oily carrier oil used in aromatherapy for its properties of being easily absorbed into the skin while toning the skin tissue. Lime oil also has properties of being an antidepressant and an antiseptic. Lime oil leaves your skin feeling refreshed and re-energized.
Citrus carrier oils, because of their nature should be stored in a dry, cool dark area to keep them deteriorating to quickly.
AUBREY
Dec
10
Filed Under (Alternative Medicine) by oil
Emily’s Oils & Essentials asked:
The Chakra and Essential Oil Index
This is a general index of the chakras. The essential oils suggested can be used in aromatherapy, massage, baths and other therapies.
1 - Root chakra
The Root chakra is about being physically present. Feelings of stability, safety and stamina are held here. This is the foundation chakra and is the first chakra of the system. When the root chakra is open we feel present in the here and now and feel that our physical space is sufficient, respected and connected to our physical body.
If the root chakra is closed we are insecure. We may be paranoid, fearful, and full of hatred and anger. We may be overly possessive. We may have low blood pressure, circulatory and sexual dysfunction.
Essential oils to help open the root chakra are vetiver, peppermint, frankincense, cedarwood, myrrh, carrot, cardamon, clove, oakmoss, patchouli, laurel, ginger, sandalwood and benzoin.
2 - Sacral chakra
The Sacral chakra is the seat of personal boundaries, trust, intimacy and the sense of attraction between two people. When the sacral chakra is open we are patient, desire and pleasure are balanced. We are able to manifest desires, have healthy attachments and healthy emotional needs. When it is open we are open to intimacy.
When the sacral chakra is closed we are withdrawn. We may have fears about our relationships, be manipulative, suspicious and insecure. We may have uro-genital ills, a low *** drive or an addiction to relationships.
Essential oils to open the sacral chakra are jasmine, ylang, cinnamon, petitgrain, tangerine, myrrh, pine cypress, coriander, oakmoss, rose, rose geranium, geranium, vetiver, clary sage and patchouli.
3 - Navel chakra
The navel chakra is the center of our power. It is about personal power, will and metabolism. Self-confidence and self-esteem reside here. This energy is empowering as well as protective from negative energy. When the naval chakra is open we are in control, we are decisive and motivated.
If the naval chakra is closed we are passive and indecisive, we have low energy and are apathetic. We don’t get what we want. We may be jealous and have an inflated ego. We may have indigestion, constipation and liver ills.
Essential oils to open this chakra are ginger, ylang, lemon, lemongrass, carrot, cade, juniper, cedarwood, meilssa black pepper, rosemary, marjoram, oregano, thymes, vetiver, cinnamon bark, peppermint, cardamn, citronella, valerian and spikenard.
4 - Heart chakra
The Heart chakra is about love. When the heart chakra is open we are open to change and growth. We fell sympathy and empathy, are sensitive to others. The heart chakra is associated with hopes of the future and awareness of our spiritual purpose. This chakra integrates and connects opposites; ego and being connected to all that is, the mind and the body. When it is open, we are compassionate and friendly; we experience love, joy, acceptance and fulfillment.
When our heart chakra is closed we have fears about our involvement with others. We may distance ourselves from others. We may have an inflated ego; we may be jealous and ungrateful. We may have circulation ills, high blood pressure and seasonal allergies.
Essential oils to open the heart chakra are rose, benzoin, meilssa, neroli, frankincense, bergmot, carrot, inula, lavandin, lavender, spikenard, oregano, marjoram, black pepper, sage, sandalwood, tansy, everlast, hyssop, cinnamon bark, laurel, camphor and amni visnaga.
5 - Throat chakra
The Throat chakra is about expressing yourself and communicating verbally and non-verbally. This can be creative expression for an artist. This is what we use to ask for what we want and get those desires manifested! When it is open we are good communicators, we are connected and interact with others to mutually beneficial ends. We are good breathers with an open throat chakra, we can release well and take in the breath of life. We heal better with this open.
Not speaking the truth can close this chakra. When it is closed we tend to not speak, to our detriment. We are unable to express ourselves. We may be addicted to cigarettes, nasal inhalers and runners high. We may have fevers of unknown origin, inflammations, chronic throat ailments and thyroid problems. We may be fearful and timid. Behaving in a manner that is honest and true to your self can help open this chakra. Singing, chanting and mantras open it as well.
Essential oils to open this chakra are lavender, Roman and German Chamomile, spearmint, catnip, frankincense, opopanax, cypress, geranium, spruce, sandalwood and carrot seed.
6 - Third Eye chakra
This Chakra is about seeing, both literally and intuitively. It gives us insight. When it is open we are very self aware, perceptive and may have heightened clairvoyance. We are better at healing, more sure of the future, and tend to make better choices. This is the chakra of visions and dreams and imagination.
If this chakra is closed, we tend to not think for ourselves and are easily confused. We may rely overmuch on others for guidance and direction. We may be without purpose. Physically we can have a depressed thyroid and respiratory trouble.
Essential oils to open this chakra are wormwood, frankincense, cedar, everlast, spruce, pine, terebinth, rose, rosemary, clary sage, oregano and marjoram, thymes and linden.
7 - Crown chakra
This is our connection to others and to the world outside of ourselves. With this we greet the divine in everyone. When this chakra is open we see ourselves in others, we experience without prejudice. We are brought knowledge and wisdom and an understanding that promotes peace and a spiritual connection. We are better at manifesting desires.
If this chakra is closed, we are probably rigid in our impressions. We likely feel unaware of our own spirituality as well as that of others. We may have low energy, feel depressed and isolated and generally anxious and worried. We may have a negative feeling about our self and feel inefficient and forgetful. Physical problems can be related to the bladder and cramping.
Essential oils for opening the crown chakra are benzoin, cistus, frankincense, myrrh, sandalwood, spruce, angelica, bois de rose, opopanax, lavenders, spikenard, rose, ravensara, basil and rosemary.
AMBROSE
The Chakra and Essential Oil Index
This is a general index of the chakras. The essential oils suggested can be used in aromatherapy, massage, baths and other therapies.
1 - Root chakra
The Root chakra is about being physically present. Feelings of stability, safety and stamina are held here. This is the foundation chakra and is the first chakra of the system. When the root chakra is open we feel present in the here and now and feel that our physical space is sufficient, respected and connected to our physical body.
If the root chakra is closed we are insecure. We may be paranoid, fearful, and full of hatred and anger. We may be overly possessive. We may have low blood pressure, circulatory and sexual dysfunction.
Essential oils to help open the root chakra are vetiver, peppermint, frankincense, cedarwood, myrrh, carrot, cardamon, clove, oakmoss, patchouli, laurel, ginger, sandalwood and benzoin.
2 - Sacral chakra
The Sacral chakra is the seat of personal boundaries, trust, intimacy and the sense of attraction between two people. When the sacral chakra is open we are patient, desire and pleasure are balanced. We are able to manifest desires, have healthy attachments and healthy emotional needs. When it is open we are open to intimacy.
When the sacral chakra is closed we are withdrawn. We may have fears about our relationships, be manipulative, suspicious and insecure. We may have uro-genital ills, a low *** drive or an addiction to relationships.
Essential oils to open the sacral chakra are jasmine, ylang, cinnamon, petitgrain, tangerine, myrrh, pine cypress, coriander, oakmoss, rose, rose geranium, geranium, vetiver, clary sage and patchouli.
3 - Navel chakra
The navel chakra is the center of our power. It is about personal power, will and metabolism. Self-confidence and self-esteem reside here. This energy is empowering as well as protective from negative energy. When the naval chakra is open we are in control, we are decisive and motivated.
If the naval chakra is closed we are passive and indecisive, we have low energy and are apathetic. We don’t get what we want. We may be jealous and have an inflated ego. We may have indigestion, constipation and liver ills.
Essential oils to open this chakra are ginger, ylang, lemon, lemongrass, carrot, cade, juniper, cedarwood, meilssa black pepper, rosemary, marjoram, oregano, thymes, vetiver, cinnamon bark, peppermint, cardamn, citronella, valerian and spikenard.
4 - Heart chakra
The Heart chakra is about love. When the heart chakra is open we are open to change and growth. We fell sympathy and empathy, are sensitive to others. The heart chakra is associated with hopes of the future and awareness of our spiritual purpose. This chakra integrates and connects opposites; ego and being connected to all that is, the mind and the body. When it is open, we are compassionate and friendly; we experience love, joy, acceptance and fulfillment.
When our heart chakra is closed we have fears about our involvement with others. We may distance ourselves from others. We may have an inflated ego; we may be jealous and ungrateful. We may have circulation ills, high blood pressure and seasonal allergies.
Essential oils to open the heart chakra are rose, benzoin, meilssa, neroli, frankincense, bergmot, carrot, inula, lavandin, lavender, spikenard, oregano, marjoram, black pepper, sage, sandalwood, tansy, everlast, hyssop, cinnamon bark, laurel, camphor and amni visnaga.
5 - Throat chakra
The Throat chakra is about expressing yourself and communicating verbally and non-verbally. This can be creative expression for an artist. This is what we use to ask for what we want and get those desires manifested! When it is open we are good communicators, we are connected and interact with others to mutually beneficial ends. We are good breathers with an open throat chakra, we can release well and take in the breath of life. We heal better with this open.
Not speaking the truth can close this chakra. When it is closed we tend to not speak, to our detriment. We are unable to express ourselves. We may be addicted to cigarettes, nasal inhalers and runners high. We may have fevers of unknown origin, inflammations, chronic throat ailments and thyroid problems. We may be fearful and timid. Behaving in a manner that is honest and true to your self can help open this chakra. Singing, chanting and mantras open it as well.
Essential oils to open this chakra are lavender, Roman and German Chamomile, spearmint, catnip, frankincense, opopanax, cypress, geranium, spruce, sandalwood and carrot seed.
6 - Third Eye chakra
This Chakra is about seeing, both literally and intuitively. It gives us insight. When it is open we are very self aware, perceptive and may have heightened clairvoyance. We are better at healing, more sure of the future, and tend to make better choices. This is the chakra of visions and dreams and imagination.
If this chakra is closed, we tend to not think for ourselves and are easily confused. We may rely overmuch on others for guidance and direction. We may be without purpose. Physically we can have a depressed thyroid and respiratory trouble.
Essential oils to open this chakra are wormwood, frankincense, cedar, everlast, spruce, pine, terebinth, rose, rosemary, clary sage, oregano and marjoram, thymes and linden.
7 - Crown chakra
This is our connection to others and to the world outside of ourselves. With this we greet the divine in everyone. When this chakra is open we see ourselves in others, we experience without prejudice. We are brought knowledge and wisdom and an understanding that promotes peace and a spiritual connection. We are better at manifesting desires.
If this chakra is closed, we are probably rigid in our impressions. We likely feel unaware of our own spirituality as well as that of others. We may have low energy, feel depressed and isolated and generally anxious and worried. We may have a negative feeling about our self and feel inefficient and forgetful. Physical problems can be related to the bladder and cramping.
Essential oils for opening the crown chakra are benzoin, cistus, frankincense, myrrh, sandalwood, spruce, angelica, bois de rose, opopanax, lavenders, spikenard, rose, ravensara, basil and rosemary.
AMBROSE
