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Basics of Aromatherapy

  • Posted on July 27, 2007 at 12:51 pm

Increasing numbers of people are attempting to return to a lifestyle that is purely holistic and complete, recognizing the importance of combining the mind, body, and spirit in equal measures to achieve optimum health and well-being. Reputed to be very old, and literally used in almost all civilizations of the world, aromatherapy is one form of holistic healing that is easy to and flexible to be practiced in our daily lives.

Aromatherapy contains organic, natural, unadulterated aromatic extracts, called aromatic essential oils, which come from plant origins. These natural substances display a broad range of therapeutic effects and actions on the body. Many of these essential oils play an important role in our daily lives, each and every moment, and in all occasions. At least one daily consumable that is used by us contains one of these essentials, like many tooth pastes and mouth washes. There are even eatables like some baked goods that are made with essential oils. Aromatherapy, however, refers strictly to the use of essential oils and hydrosols for health purposes and body healing.

Aromatherapy is the art of using the fragrant essential oils derived from plants to treat ailments of the mind and body. The magnificent scent of these oils evokes a variety of different responses by stimulating the olfactory and other sensory organs, which are linked to the areas of the brain which control emotions. It means that these essential oils have a direct bearing on the human constitution, body and mind. A chain of chemical reactions, initiated by this invisible stimulation then takes place, effecting a physical or emotional change in the body.

Aromatherapy is an innovative way to improve the quality of life that incorporates all principles of body and mind. Aromatherapy has already become a part of our lives, although many of us have not associated the name with the actual experience. Each human being has an emotional response, both pleasant and unpleasant, some happy and others sad, to certain scents. So the idea behind aromatherapy is, initially, to find those scents and oils, unique but different for each individual, those evoke positive sensory feelings and emotions. The next step is to introduce those essentials into our daily life to enhance well-being. Natural scents and oils keep us connected to the earth, sparking memories and emotions. They also bring back forgotten memories, emotions and lost luster in our lives.

Pure essential oils are extracted from many parts of the plant (flower, leaf, resin, bark, root, twig, seed, berry, rind and rhizome) and the extracted oils are used to relax, replenish, balance and rejuvenate body, mind and spirit. Aromatherapy is both an art and a science that involves the basic constitution of our body. All these objectives are skillfully achieved by blending required parts of different oils and then creating a balmy complex that is used to create a heavenly experience.

How ever, the results of aromatherapy are very individual specific and vary from person to person. While experts display general agreement about the actions of certain oils, aromatherapy texts vary differently in their descriptions of the properties and characteristics of an essential oil. The basic fact is that no two persons in this world are influenced by the same aromatic oil in exactly the same way and manner. What is more, even the same person can be significantly affected differently by the same oil depending on surroundings, time or mood.

If you need to experience the real magic of these essential oils, you will have to use one of those applications in any part of daily life. Reactions to fragrances are highly individual and specific. Here is small guideline to help you try evaluating some aromas of essential oils:

As you inhale deeply an essential oil for the first time, try and describe the aroma:

Is it sharp and stinging?

Is it subtle and smooth

Is it balanced and tuned?

Is it light or heavy?

Is it warming or cooling?

Is it sweet, spicy, woody, floral, fruity, etc.?

These are some of the basic sensory feeling you can experience on inhaling aromatic oils. Now try and describe how you perceive the aroma:

Do you like or dislike it?

Do you associate the aroma with any of your previous personal experiences?

What emotions do you have that are connected to these experiences? Is it possible to remember them?

Does the aroma produce those emotions now? Is it repetitive?

Does the aroma affect your awareness: does it rejuvenate, energize or relax?

Aromatherapy is a science that can not be comprehended so easily; the whole human race has tried to understand its undying mystery since time immemorial. However, its magical properties have always mesmerized us with a sense of awe and suspense.

About The Author

Lorna Findlay – Find more aromatherapy articles at http://www.essentialaromatherapy.co.uk

Written By: Lorna Findlay

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A Guide To The Effective Use Of Aromatherapy

  • Posted on July 21, 2007 at 12:51 pm

Aromatherapy has been practiced for around for almost 3500 years and its application in daily lives is as old as our civilization itself. It is the exotic art, and science, of using oils extracted from aromatic plants and herbs to enhance health, emotional well being and beauty. Apart from the physical benefits, essential oils can have soothing effects on the mind and emotions. The essential oils taken from plants and employed in Aromatherapy have been described as their “critical factors” – they are needed critically for the plants’ biological process, as well as being the substance which gives them their scent and aroma. Synthetic oil, even if chemically similar, lacks all the natural factors, and that vital critical factor, that make essential oils so valuable. Another reason why synthetic oils are not acceptable and desired is that the minor constituents are never identical in structure and composition. Essential oils are extracted from flowers; herbs; spices; woods and fibers, usually by distillation, expulsion and solvent extraction. Solvent extraction is only acceptable for aromatherapy, if the solvent used is completely removed after the manufacturing process and no traces are identifiable. Here are some of the most common uses that are associated with essential oils: For Massage: This is the most effective method of using the oils, combining their properties with the therapeutic power of touch. The oils should never be used undiluted, but should be diluted with an odorless carrier oil, such as grape seed, sweet almond or peach kernel. A dilution of 3% essential oil to carrier oil is a recommended level. This is approximately one drop essential oil to two milliliters of carrier oil. Essential oils are needed in very minute quantities. The skin is the largest surface part of the body and is designed to keep out contaminants from the skin layers.

For Bath:

Using oils in baths is a simple, effective and pleasant exercise to relax and receive the therapeutic and soothing effects. It is well known that water itself has therapeutic value, which further enhances the powers of the oils. For daily bathing, add 6 to 10 drops of essential oil or a blend to the surface of the water, and then bathe yourself for about 20 minutes, whilst you deeply inhale the vapor. Be a bit careful about the quantum oil you use while bathing your children. For Compressing Add 5 to 10 drops of essential oil to 100ml of warm water then soak a piece of clean cotton in the water, wring out the excess and place the cloth on the affected part.

For Inhalation Add 5 to 10 drops of essential oil into a bowl of steaming water then place a towel over your head and the bowl and inhale the vapor for a few minutes. Feel yourself rejuvenated and free of tension. For Vaporization All essential oils are known antiseptic and evaporate easily, thus make very good air-fresheners. Different oils usually create different atmospheres. For example, relaxing Sandalwood or Clary Sage are good for ravishing parties; or cool Peppermint clears your mind when you need to work. Diffusers can be used to make oils diffuse slowly in your working room or living quarters. As Perfumes It is very easy to make your own distinctive perfume by skillfully blending different oils. Try blending with different combinations, which can be mixed with a carrier oil or non-fragrant alcohol. Do your own experiment. Storing Essential Oils Because essential oils are affected by sunlight and higher temperatures, they should be stored in dark glass bottles, with tight stopper caps. Cap should be secured properly and the bottle stored in an upright position. Maintain a uniform temperature and moisture. Never allow these oils to come in contact with children. Never store essential oils in plastic bottles. Good Essential oils have a shelf life of several years if properly stored, though the oils derived from orange, lemon and lime will not keep as long. Patchouli is rare kind oil which actually gets better as it ages. Mixing Essential Oils Blending different oils in various proportions can yield you some fabulous products. You should have right knowledge and a will to experiment various combinations. It is strongly recommended that you use a good dropper so that you can measure the actual number of drops easily. Do not mix up oils as they are known to get unstable too quickly. Use a different dropper for different oil to avoid cross contamination.

Uses that are associated with aromatic essential oils are various; different oils have their own special applications and benefits. How ever, no single oil is exactly similar to another in its application, aroma, scent and appeal. It means any essential oil has its own charisma and special niche. Go ahead and enjoy the exotic presence of your own aromatic oil.

About the author:

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

Written By: Lorna Findlay

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Holistic Aromatherapy for Cats

  • Posted on July 15, 2007 at 12:51 pm

Almost any cat owner will tell you their feline friends are capable of conveying emotion. In fact, they may even say they can recognize and distinguish specific emotions their cats display, including love, anger, illness, annoyance and more.

Scientific experiments on both humans and animals indicate that emotional responses are triggered by physical stimuli. Considering that cats have sensory systems that are much more sensitive than the human senses of sight, smell, sound, taste and touch, there’s no question that our pets’ environments are so closely linked to their states of mind.

Unlike humans, cats do not have the conscious ability to integrate, process and grow from their emotional experiences. Instead, cats will react, take in and indicate their emotions, but are not able to process their imbalances like we can.

This explains why a healthy emotional environment is vital for cats, as well as for all animals. A healthy cat must be afforded enough space, love, and attention if he is to thrive. But foremost, and frequently overlooked, is a peaceful home environment. Cats are extremely sensitive to stress, and living in a home with arguments, negative energies or tension will affect his emotional well-being and health.

Today I will share aromatherapy recipes to treat common emotional issues your cat may be facing, including stress, loneliness, grief and separation anxiety/abandonment.

***IMPORTANT!***
Animals respond very well to flower essences and essential oils. They are very gentle and safe methods of treating emotional imbalances or stress-related symptoms. But please remember that animals are very sensitive and only require a minute dosage of essential oils. Avoid any sensitive areas, such as the head, eyes, ears and mouth. Pour a few drops of these aromatic blends into the palm of your hands and very gently pat your cat along the spine.

Prepare these aromatic blends by pouring the essential oils into a 10ml bottle, then adding an organic vegetable oil to fill.

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Relieve Stress
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Have you recently moved, taken in another pet, had a baby? Changes like these can be stressful for you as well as your pet. Try this aromatic blend to relieve your cat’s stress.

3 drops Lavender
1 drop Neroli

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Combat Loneliness
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Do you work outside the home or travel frequently? In spite of their independent nature, cats long for company and affection. Use this aromatic blend to help your cat combat bouts of loneliness.

4 drops Marjoram
1 drop Rose

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Grief/Loss of a Companion
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If you recently experienced the loss of a pet or other family member, your cat is likely grieving with you. This aromatic blend can help your pet deal with feelings of grief and loss.

1 drop Rose
3 drops Lavender

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Separation Anxiety/Abandonment
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Will you be taking a summer vacation without your pet? Use this aromatic blend to help your cat adjust to his separation from you.

2 drops Roman Chamomile
3 drops Lavender

Order what you need to create these blends yourself now:
===> http://www.aromalchemy.com/aromatherapy/ouroils.html

For more information about flower essences and holistic care for animals, visit these links:

AnaFlora Animal Communication & Flower Essences
===> http://www.anaflora.com/index.htm

Master’s Flower Essences, Pets and Animals
===> http://mastersessences.com/7Pets.html

Holistic Health Care for Animals
===> http://www.specialneedspets.org/holistic.htm

In Good Health,
Francoise Rapp

http://www.AromAlchemy.com

(c) Francoise Rapp, 2002. Internationally renowned aromatherapist and alchemist, Francoise Rapp, shares her expertise in using essential oils to heal and revitalize body and mind at http://www.aromalchemy.com. Highlights include aromatherapy classes, pure & organic essential oils, recipes and aromatic treatments for health and wellness, and a free weekly newsletter. Discover the power of aromatherapy today at http://www.aromalchemy.com!

About the Author

Internationally renowned aromatherapist and alchemist Franoise Rapp shares her expertise each week in her free ezine, the Arom’Alchemy Newsletter. To subscribe, visit www.aromalchemy.com/education.

Written By: Francoise Rapp

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Live In Fragrance With Aromatherapy Skin Care

  • Posted on July 9, 2007 at 12:50 pm

One must not be careless with ones skin. Being the biggest body part, it needs as much care too. Even if you feel that you have perfect complexion and lustrous skin at this age, you must know that it may not last forever. Being an owner of beautiful skin still requires you to properly care for it. The rule goes simple the longer you keep your skin go without care, the faster it will onset for damage. For the best care of your skin, Aromatherapy is emerging as a good skin care choice.

Aromatherapy is not a new phenomenon. It is being used for skin care since thousands of years. In the ancient age, the Egyptians and the Romans used the Aromatherapy oils for skin care. Beautiful ladies have made it their secret companion to acquire beautiful and shinning skin for ever.

Aromatherapy skin care oils comprise of effective qualities to endorse and sustain the healthy and youthful skin for you. Though in the modern age, all that was natural is being replaced by cosmetic. The novel chemical processes have produced artificial versions of the naturally scented oils. These oils can have good fragrance but not that good therapeutic quality.

Aromatherapy is a very easy process and does not demand much effort from your side. It is so easy to be done at home. It encompasses simple ways that do not need you to come outside your house and contact any high profile parlors. With Aromatherapy you can treat your skin suitably by not wasting any extra dollars from your pocket. Aromatherapy makes your skin look fresh and healthy without costing any extra bit of pains either physically or financially.

There are so many factors that keep affecting your skin. They change the color and even the texture of your skin drastically. Some unwanted allergies, stale make-up, incompatible cosmetics and exposure to sub can very severely damage your skin. Aromatherapy not only controls all these unwanted affects but also helps your skin fight them well.

For attaining the best results, you should get started with Aromatherapy skin care at an early age. You will yourself feel the best results. Your skin will last for a good long period of time.

There are many therapies that work together collectively in Aromatherapy skin care. For this you can get the essential training from an expert or can learn it yourself reading some good articles from health and fashion magazines. On the Internet also there are many websites that provide genuine and useful information about Aromatherapy skin care.

You can use essential herbs and oils with freshening aroma. Mix them well in your bathtub. Then, get a magnificent dip in the tub and relax. Relax as much as you can. Leave off all the worries and tensions of your routine life. Think yourself as a princess relaxing in her castle; or, a free bird diving in the blue sky at her own wish. Aromatherapy skin care will work in a wonderful way to melt away all your stress. It will pamper you and make you fresh and ready for the new day.

For best results in Aromatherapy skin care, use quality skin softener. Also take up a lubricant of sweet almond oil. Do a good massage or just keep it applied on the skin. It is capable of reducing friction by making your skin smooth. Almond oil is good for skin as it contains vitamins B1, A, B6 and B2 with extra dose of vitamins.

After all this, it is also essential to steam your face. Do some treatment with fingers on your facial skin, while standing in the shower for some extra time. This will open your blocked pores and will remove the dead skin. Aromatherapy skin care will definitely improve the effect of your selected facial treatment.

You should not forget to cleanse your face well. Aromatherapy skin care will help you to do away with unwanted bacteria and leave your skin scented with the fragrance of natural herbal scent. And just after this, put a masker on your face. One great fruit masker that suits well to all types of skins is the papaya facial. To reduce fine lines and puffiness to revitalize your darkened skin around eyes, use cold compresses as part of Aromatherapy skin care.

Aromatherapy skin care is very effective and quite easy to do. Just collect the essential oils and other material and you can get started for it at your home itself. You can buy a kit from a nearby store or on the Internet. It does not take much to get started for the Aromatherapy skin care. And the results that it gives will bring you on the seventh cloud of joy. So, what keeps you waiting?

About the Author: Brought to you from http://www.goodaromatherapy.com by Jay Morganson

Written By: Jay Morganson

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Aromatherapy for the Parents of Teenagers

  • Posted on July 3, 2007 at 12:50 pm

If you are the parent of a teen, you are certainly aware of how much your family dynamics have changed in recent years. It doesn’t seem all that long ago that you were the center of your children’s universe. Remember when you were the one they came to when they had bruised shins and broken hearts? Well your once-little baby is now approaching adulthood, testing his or her independence, and at times your patience.

You may find yourself struggling with many dichotomies. For instance, while you are aware of and respect your teen’s growing demands for privacy, you may have concerns about his or her friends and interests. Or you may want to establish strong boundaries, and yet at the same time you want to help your teen become independent.

So while your teenager is facing a profound transition in life, you as a parent are as well. Now is the time to evaluate issues not only with your children, but also with yourself. What are your boundaries? Are you a secure and trusting person? Are you someone with whom your teen can and wants to communicate?

If you feel you need guidance with some of these issues, there are many great books on the market about raising teens. Establish a support system with other parents in your community. You can also find wonderful support systems via online parenting communities and chat rooms.

Meanwhile, the use of aromatherapy on a daily basis will help you stay balanced, gain more insight, open yourself to trust your teen, and communicate your feelings and life perspective in a compassionate and calm manner. Below are several aromatherapy recipes to help you survive the teen years!

Each recipe below should be prepared in a 10ml bottle. Pour the essential oils first and then add organic vegetable oil to fill.

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Blend for Tranquility
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This blend will help you to remain balanced. It will calm your mind and emotions when you experience symptoms of stress and nervous tension.

-6 drops Sandalwood
-7 drops Lavender
-5 drops Marjoram
-2 drops Rose otto

Massage the solar plexus and abdomen. Pour one-third of the blend into your warm bathwater and soak for at least 15 minutes. Pour a few drops into the palm of your hands and inhale deeply as needed throughout the day.

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Blend for Boundaries
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This blend will help you feel more grounded, centered and assertive when a need arises to establish new boundaries with your teen.

-6 drops Rosemary
-5 drops Cypress
-6 drops Cedarwood
-4 drops Sandalwood

Massage the solar plexus and lower back. Pour one-third of the blend into your warm bath water and soak for at least 15 minutes. Pour a few drops into the palm of your hands and inhale deeply as needed throughout the day.

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Blend for Emotional Security and Acceptance
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This blend soothes your emotions and enhances a profound sense of emotional security and comfort while accepting the natural steps of your teen’s growth.

-3 drops Rose
-5 drops Sandalwood
-5 drops Orange
-4 drops Pine

Massage the solar plexus and abdomen. Pour one-third of the blend into your warm bath water and soak for at least 15 minutes. Pour a few drops into the palm of your hands and inhale deeply as needed throughout the day.

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Blend to Open Communication
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This blend supports and opens communication with others while releasing any anger, resentment, guilt or frustration held within the body and mind.

-4 drops Lavender
-5 drops Sage
-4 drops German Chamomile

Massage the throat, neck, and shoulders. Pour one-third of the blend into your warm bath water and soak for at least 15 minutes. Pour a few drops into the palm of your hands and inhale deeply as needed throughout the day.

In Good Health,
Francoise Rapp

http://www.aromalchemy.com

(c) Francoise Rapp, 2002. 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 Franoise Rapp shares her expertise each week in her free ezine, the Arom’Alchemy Newsletter. To subscribe, visit www.aromalchemy.com/education.

Written By: Francoise Rapp

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