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Counterculture Aromatherapy – Patchouli Essential Oil

  • Posted on September 26, 2007 at 12:52 pm

Patchouli’s History and Uses Ah, Patchouli oil – people seem to love it or hate it. This well know essential oil has a somewhat deserved reputation as the scent of the Hippy generation (according to one source, it’s use began as a mask for the odor of a particularly cherished herb), though it’s traditional use dates back hundreds, perhaps thousands of years. Today, Patchouli oil has a well-deserved reputation in aromatherapy, with it’s deep, musky, and sweet odor, and Earth and Fire balancing energy. It is an exotic aroma that can forever leave an imprint on the olfactory memory.

Patchouli (Pogostemon cablin) is a perennial herb native to Southeast Asia, growing wild in Sumatra and Java at elevations between 3,000 and 6,000 feet – though it’s cultivation is more pervasive in lower tropical jungles. This bushy plant grows to the height of 3 feet, having a strong stem and soft, hairy leaves. For essential oil production, the plant is cut two or three times per year, with the best quality oil derived from leaves harvested in the wet season. The leaves are hand picked, bundled or baled, and allowed to partially dry in the shade and ferment for a few days before the oil is extracted via steam distillation (Patchouli oil is now becoming available as a CO2 extract in limited quantities). The fermentation process softens the plant’s cell walls, easing the extraction of the oil.

The relative ease of it’s cultivation, and it’s high oil yield keeps the price of true Patchouli essential oils relatively low. It is important to note however, Patchouli is one of the few essential oils that improve with age (others being Frankincense, Cedarwood, Sandalwood and Vetiver), and that a properly aged Patchouli oil is much more desirable than a fresh one. Over time, the oil looses a harshness that many find distasteful, and adds a sweet top note. As it ages, the oil turns from light yellow to a deep amber, with the aroma becoming smoother and more rich. Principal constituents of the oil include: Patchoulol (25-35%), Alpha-Bulnesene (12-20%), Alpha-Guaiene + Seychellene (15-25%), and Alpha-Patchoulene (5-9%).

Perhaps first due to it’s power as a moth repellent, the aroma of Patchouli was pervasive in cloth and clothing exported from India in the 19th century. The scent became an indicator of true ‘Oriental’ fabric, so much so that English and French garment makers were obliged to scent their imitation products with Patchouli to ensure their acceptance in the domestic marketplace. Beyond its use for preventing holes from being eaten in one’s cloting, Patchouli oil has been used for centuries in traditional medicine in Malaysia, China and Japan. Primarily indicated for skin conditions, Patchouli may be of benefit in cases of dermatitis, eczema, acne, dry chapped skin, and other irritating conditions, along with dandruff and oily scalp conditions. As a cell rejuvenator, it may help in healing wounds and reducing the appearance of scars. It is considered an excellent remedy for insect and snake bites, and has been used as a fumigant and rubbing oil to prevent the spread of fevers and to strengthen the immune system.

Aromatherapy and Perfumery Uses of Patchouli Oil

Patchouli oil is considered an excellent base note and fixative in perfumery, being a component in many famous perfumes. As a fixative, it slows the evaporation of other, more volatile oils so that their aroma may be released over a longer period of time. A little patchouli can be used in natural perfume blends, adding that special deep and earthy aroma. It mixes well with many essential oils, with almost all common oils being mentioned across a variety of sources – these include Vetiver, Rosemary, Sandalwood, Frankincense, Bergamot, Cedarwood, Myrrh, Jasmine, Rose, Citrus oils, Clary Sage, Lemongrass, Geranium and Ginger.

In Aromatherapy, Patchouli is considered a great balancer, relaxing yet stimulating, particularly relevant for conditions of weak immunity where overwork and anxiety have left the individual in a susceptible state. It is said to bring the three principal forces at work within the body – the Creative at the navel, the Heart center, and transcendental wisdom a the crown – into harmony.

Patchouli oil may also relieve the strain of those with excessive mental activity who may feel ‘out of touch’ with their body and sensuality. It has been considered a relaxing aphrodisiac, and can be helpful for those with impotence, frigidity, and sexual anxiety that are products of mental anguish. Patchouli combines this aphrodisiac effect with an antidepressant one, uplifting the mind with it’s sweet, warm, spicy scent.

As if this were not enough, Patchouli is thought to be a bringer of prosperity and abundance. Perhaps by allowing one to open to these possibilities energetically, the oil is used in ceremonies and prayers by those in need of financial or other type of infusion in their lives. One may simply close their eyes, imagine the abundance they need, and inhale the oil’s aroma for a few seconds.

For a few simple blends, try:

3 parts Patchouli and 1 part Rosemary Cineol. This is a wonderfully uplifting blend combining the deep earthiness of Patchouli with the invigorating aroma of Rosemary. This can certainly be worn as a perfume, or used in a diffuser.

When the going gets tedious, try brightening with 3 parts Coriander, 2 parts Patchouli and 1 part Bergamot. This may uplift the spirits and remind one of the joy to be found in life.

For the sensually insecure, try 1 part Geranium, 1 part Patchouli and 1 part Bergamot. A beautiful yet simple blend for getting comfortable in one’s own skin.

It may take a little education, but many who claim to have a dislike for Patchouli may truly enjoy it when finally getting to sample a properly aged or beautifully blended oil.

About the Author

Misty Rae Cech, ND, is a Naturopath and yoga instructor practicing in Boulder, Colorado – she is the owner of http://www.anandaapothecary.com

Written By: Misty Rae Cech, ND

Aromatherapy for a Broken Heart

  • Posted on September 19, 2007 at 12:51 pm

The heart is a very fragile and strong organ. It is the center of our being and a very vulnerable focal point. The heart plays a role in every function of the body. It can be “hurt”, “lost” and left in San Francisco. It can also “skip a beat” or be attacked by a stroke. Our heart is our life force and in Chinese medicine it is the fire element. Yet it can “fail” us, as in heart failure. The heart has rhythm and can block, just not in a football game. Sometime, our heart talks to us with sounds and murmurs. There are some people who listen to their hearts speak to them while others have not listened and may have taken a path of least resistance. There is time, however, that we all listen when our heart speaks to us. That time is when there is what is called a broken heart.

When the heart is broken, a spectrum of feelings is manifested. These feelings consist of hurt, pain, anger, sadness, relief and forgiveness. In the process of living with these feelings and going through the experience of having a broken heart, what happens physically and emotionally to women?

In my practice, many women have scheduled an appointment with me for an annual gynecological examination or they were returning for their weekly obstetrical examination. Within the first few minutes of interviewing the patient about her medical history since the last visit, I realize there is a strong emotional and physical component to the visit that is not directly related to what is considered a routine exam. In essence, the emotional and physical components are indicative of a broken heart. I make a holistic assessment of the patient’s medical history, emotional, spiritual, physical and clinical findings. These cases may warrant a referral to a specialist, depending on her status at that moment. A follow up visit is always scheduled.

Throughout time, it has been said individuals have died of a broken heart. For instance, a wife died and then her husband died from natural causes within a week or a sister died and her sibling died naturally very soon thereafter. Were the subsequent deaths just a coincidence or did they die from a broken heart?

Researchers have started scientifically looking at such cases and calling it the Broken Heart Syndrome. In health care terminology we call this condition stress Cardiomyopathy. Cardiomyopathy is heart muscle weakness. It can occur after various emotional and physical stressors such as fear, surprise, anger and the death of a loved one. Stress cardiomyopathy affects primarily women and occurs most frequently in middle aged women and women over age sixty. Many of the women that have been studied have no prior history of heart disease and the majorities are postmenopausal. There is no known reason for the increase frequency in women in these age groups and postmenopausal women in particular. Physical stressors can fuel a stroke or seizure and as mentioned emotional stressors such as fear, grief and anger can cause this condition.

Women with dis-stressed can suddenly and unexpectedly experience a heavy feeling in the chest, shortness of breath, abnormal rhythm of the heart, low blood pressure, congestive heart failure and shock. It can be life threatening. She may appear sad, express feelings of sadness, lock of concentration and difficulty sleeping at night. The good news is there can also be a quick and complete recovery.

Aromatherapy is a fantastic complementary therapy. One hundred percent essential oils are more potent than herbs -less is better than more. They are volatile oils which are obtained directly from the root, flower petals, leaves or skins of fruit. The price can range from approximately five dollars to several hundred dollars for a half ounce. It takes 2000 pounds of rose petals to make one pound of oil. Therefore there is a variance in the cost of essential oils. The essential oils widely used to restore the heart are Rose Otto, Jasmine sambac, Neroli, Rosewood, and Lavender. Essential oil blends can be used through inhalation and application methods. They can be inhaled by using a diffuser, sniffed directly from the bottle (less expensive oils) or they can be used in the bath/shower or through vapor and nebulizer. They can be applied by massage or as perfume oil.

Lavender has a long history as a medicine and perfume. In Chinese medicine it circulates heart Qi. It can restore vitality, relieve tension and calm a person. Dried lavender buds can be added to the bath or a tea can be made from the dried herb. To make a single note lavender perfume oil add three drops of 100% Highland or Bulgarian lavender essential oil to one tablespoon of jojoba oil. Jojoba oil is a stable carrier oil, won’t rancid and is relatively odorless. The benefits of essential oils are numerous. However, care must be taken in using them. Aromatherapy is very technical. One oil can cancel out the effects of another oil. Some oils are toxic and what may benefit one person may have no effect on another person. One fragrance may be pleasant to one person and offensive to another. Determine which oil is best for you. Our behavior is affected by the aromatic scent. They also help the body regulate itself and come into balance. Therefore the stressors and feelings produced by a broken are relieved with the consistent use of aromatherapy.

About the author:

Johnetta Miner, NP, is the founder and President of Johnetta Miner, NP. She is a Jin Shin Jyutsu Physio-Philosophy practitioner and Jin Shin Jyutsu self help instructor. J. Miner, NP has provided primary care to adolescents and women specializing in prenatal, obstetrical and gynecological care. She advocates preventative health care in an integrative manner, combining traditional and western medicine. She can be reached at http://www.jeminer.com

Written By: Johnetta Miner

Aromatherapy Basics – Inhalation, Injestion And Massage

  • Posted on September 13, 2007 at 12:51 pm

Getting started with aromatherapy? Here’s a little primer for the beginning to intermediate student of this practice, with some important notes about essential oil safety – There are three traditional methods of using essential oils for ‘aromatherapy’, which have been termed the English, French and German models.

The English model consists of what is now termed ‘aromatherapy massage’ – involving the dilution of essential oils in ‘carrier’ or ‘base’ oils and application topically to the skin. Because both the essential oils and the carrier oils are compatible with the skin, the essential oils are absorbed into the bloodstream with subsequent physiological effect.

Topical application is the preferred method of use for many essential oils. However, MOST essential oils require significant dilution (often to less than 3% of the total volume) as they can cause skin irritation. Lavender Oil and Chamomile Oil are two essential oils that can be applied ‘neat’ or without dilution; others, such as Cinnamon Oil and Oregano Oil should never be applied topically undiluted – they may be applied once highly diluted to the bottoms of the feet. A VERY small amount should be tested first.

The interesting thing about topical application is that essential oils tend to pass through the skin fairly readily, as they are lipotropic (fat soluble) and their molecular structure is fairly small. In this manner, their possible effects can be targeted – if one has digestive trouble, rubbing Peppermint Oil diluted in a carrier oil (a pure vegetable or nut oil) into the abdomen may help. In the same way, rubbing Chamomile Oil or Lavender Oil into the solar plexus (bottom tip of the sternum) may help relieve tension.

The French model consists of ingestion and ‘neat’ or undiluted topical application of essential oils. Perhaps these somewhat bravado methods are a result of the French producing some of the world’s finest Lavender oils – also considered one of the safest oils in aromatherapy. As in the English model, essential oils will easily pass through the skin and into the bloodstream. Many individuals directly apply oils such as Frankincense, Sandalwood and Myrhh to their temples to enhance meditation, for example. This is a practice one should begin slowly with, being sure the body or skin does not show any adverse reactions to before proceeding. ORAL INJESTION OF ESSENTIAL OILS IS NOT RECOMMENDED EXCEPT UNDER THE GUIDANCE OF A DOCTOR OR A QUALIFIED AROMATHERAPIST.

The German model is that of inhalation, where the essential oils will directly affect the lymbic system, and the intimately associated emotional and hormonal systems. Oils are often diffused in a cold-air diffuser, warmer or oil lamp – these tools disperse tiny droplets of essential oils in the surrounding air. When inhaled, the oils connect directly to the nervous system’s chemical sensors. Certain oils that are high in sesquiterpines such as myrrh, sandalwood, vetiver and frankincense oils, have been noted to dramatically increase activity and oxygenation in certain areas of the brain when used this way.

With inhalation go slowly and start with a small amount – essential oils are effective in very low doses. You will know when you’ve had enough – we tend to notice a distaste for the smell or even a mild headache coming on if the concentration of certain oils in the air has gotten too high.

Inhalation is often effective for mood-altering effects of essential oils; Rosemary for mental ‘stimulation’, Lavender for relaxation, etc. These effects are a result of essential oil components on the lymbic system of the brain – which again is closely tied to the emotional centers.

Essential oil components from one plant may have synergistic effects with another. One may certainly blend essential oils in a diffuser or burner, adding a couple drops of each oil desired. Often a nice result can be had from mixing a brighter or sweeter oil (Rosemary, Basil, Orange) with one more earthy and grounding (Patchouli, Frankincense, Cedar). The effects are very personal – if you don’t like the smell of a particular essential oil or combination of oils, there’s probably a reason and they’re just not for you! Your intake could be too high or the oil(s) may not be compatible with your body chemistry at that time.

A note about safety: Essential Oils are very powerful components of plants – they have the capability of being harmful if improperly used. Essential Oils can be very helpful for some cases, supportive in others, and have little to no effect in others. They are not intended to treat or cure serious medical conditions; there is no substitute for a consultation with a competent physician for any matters regarding your health, or anyone else. If you are pregnant, planning to get pregnant, or breast feeding, it is critical you consult your physician before using any essential oil. Please be sure there are no contraindications of an essential oil for your condition before using! Almost all essential oils should be diluted to the range of 1% to 3% in your chosen carrier (or ‘base’) oil – Lavender and Chamomile Oils being notable exceptions (though diluting them will make them no less effective).

Remember – start slowly, pay attention to how an oil and it’s particular application makes you feel, adjust accordingly, keep learning, and have fun!

About the author:

Misty Rae Cech, ND is a naturopath and yoga teacher practicing in Boulder, Colorado. She is the owner of http://www.anandaapothecary.com and http://www.ananda-aromatherapy.com

Written By: Misty Rae Cech, ND

Using Aromatherapy Recipes

  • Posted on September 7, 2007 at 12:51 pm

Organic aromatherapy recipes have been used for centuries and its usage is very diverse and spread all over the world. Hundreds of recipes have been found and perfected over thousands of years. Aromatherapy makes use of essential oils to combat everyday maladies in our lives such as stress, depression, indigestion, menopause, nausea, immune deficiencies, fatigue and numerous others. The following aromatherapy recipes are for your aromatic information.

First things first! Always remember that essential oils are very potent and volatile liquids that can be very harmful if used carelessly. CAUTION: Never apply undiluted oil on the skin without use of carrier oil such as sweet almond oil, hazelnut oil, sunflower oil or grape seed oil. Massage is perhaps the most popular way to use essential oils. It combines the healing art of aromatherapy with the healing art of touch. Self-massage is just as effective as being massaged by another person and lack of a partner is no excuse for not trying these relaxing recipes. As a general rule, always use ten drops of total essential oils per mixture, and keep it around five for maximum effectiveness.

You can always concoct your own innovative recipe using many essential oils that available in the market. You don’t really need a branded expensive aromatherapy product or go to an expensive aromatherapy spa and some wholesale aromatherapy vendors can be too expensive. Here are a few quick, instant and easy natural aromatherapy recipes that can be formulated at your home: Beat the depression with 3 revitalizing drops of orange essential oil and 2 drops of zesty ginger. Drive out insomnia with easeful drops of Roman chamomile, clary sage and bergamot oils. Reduce menstrual cramps with pacifying drops of peppermint, cypress and lavender oils. Soothe stress with calming drops of Roman chamomile, lavender and vetiver oils. Enhance memory with stimulating drops of peppermint and lemon oils. Boost your immune system with protecting drops of eucalyptus, pine and peppermint oils. Fight acne with toning lavender and antiseptic tea tree oil. Ease a grieving heart with oils of warm rose and sandalwood. Disinfect the kitchen sink with the citrus smell of lemon, lime and grapefruit oils.

Apart from these most common recipes, you can also prepare hundreds of them by using correct amounts of essential oils. All-Purpose Face and Neck Massage: 3 drops violet oil + 2 drops rose oil: in 20 ml of carrier oil. Add vitamin E for extra richness. Anti-Tension Massage: 2 drops petit grain oil + 2 drops lavender oil + 2 drops sandalwood oil: in 20 ml carrier oil. Apply on the neck, shoulders, and temples. Backache Massage: 2 drop eucalyptus oil + 2 drops lavender oil + 1 drop lemon oil: in 20 ml carrier oil. Focus on areas of tension with fingertips. Bedtime Massage: 3 drop sandalwood oil + 2 drops chamomile oil: in 20 ml of carrier oil. Calming Back Massage: 4 drop ylang ylang oil + 3 drops jasmine oil + 2 drops geranium oil: in 20 ml of carrier oil. Circulation Improvement Massage: 6 drop lavender oil + 4 drops rosemary oil + 2 drops vetiver oil: in 4 oz. of sesame oil. Face and Neck Massage: 2 drop galbanum oil + 3 drops neroli oil: 20 ml carrier oil. Hand Massage: 5 drops lime oil + 5 drops thyme oil + 5 drops eucalyptus oil + 5 drops cajuput oil: in 4 tablespoons carrier oil. Leg Massage: 2 drops cypress oil + 2 drop lime oil + 1 drop lemon oil: 20 ml carrier oil. Massage on calves, using gentle pressure on varicose veins. Mature Skin Massage: 2 drop myrrh oil + 2 drops lavender oil + 2 drops neroli oil: 20 ml wheat germ oil. Pain-Relieving Massage: 3 drop pine oil + 3 drop eucalyptus oil + 3 drops frankincense oil: 20 ml carrier oil. Apply on sore joints. Relaxing Full-Body Massage: 3 drop neroli oil + 2 d jasmine oil: in 20 ml of carrier oil. Relaxing Massage: 2 drops geranium oil + 2 drops rose oil + 2 drops lavender oil: 20 ml carrier oil. Face and scalp massage. Sensual Body Massage: 2 drops patchouli oil + 3 drops geranium oil + 3 drops rose oil: 20 ml carrier oil. Stimulating Body Rub: 1 drops peppermint oil + 1 drops myrrh oil + 2 drops lavender oil: 20 ml carrier oil. This is an excellent winter rub. Summer Stimulating Massage: 2 drop lemongrass oil + 3 drops orange oil + 1 drop rosemary oil: 20 ml carrier oil. Good for back and shoulder massages. Uplifting Massage: 2 drop bergamot oil + 2 drops orange oil +2 drops petit grain oil: 20 ml carrier oil. Good early-morning body rubs. Varicose Vein Massage: 2 drops lime oil + 2 drops cedar wood oil: in 20 ml carrier oil. Rub lightly, using only fingertips. Wrinkled or Puffy Face Massage: 2 drops rose oil + 1 drops violet oil + 1 drops geranium oil: 20 ml carrier oil. Rub lightly on face, using only fingertips. Oils which are not preferable for home use include: cinnamon, clove, hyssop, and sage. Oils which should not be used during pregnancy include: basil, clove, cinnamon, fennel, hyssop, juniper, marjoram, myrrh, peppermint, rosemary, sage, and white thyme. Oils which are not recommended for steam facials include: bay, clary sage, ginger, juniper, pine, and tea tree. Oils which are photosynthesizing include, but are not restricted to: lemon, bergamot, lime, and orange. Do not go out into the sun for at least two hours after applying these oils to your skin.

About the author:

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

Written By: Lorna Findlay

Oils and Creams Used in aromatherapy Massage

  • Posted on September 1, 2007 at 12:51 pm

Oils and Creams Used in Aromatheray Massage The aromatherapy massage cream combines the synergistic effects of providing calmness of mind and wonderful skin care. The massage cream bathed with the wonderful aromatic flavors can produce some outstanding impact when massaged on your body. So aromatherapy massage cream not only provides soothing sensations to your mind and body, but also enriches you with a glossy skin. Mingling effects of aromatherapy massage cream If one aromatherapy massage cream is mingled proportionately with another then they can produce the best results. Once the aromatherapy massage cream is mingled you should store them in a dark bottle to avoid any damage of the cream. You can undergo an aromatherapy cream massage in the spas or in the healing arts centers. However, if it is not possible for you to go to these massage centers, then practice self massage to heal your mind and body. Different flavors of aromatherapy massage cream The aromatherapy massage cream is often blended with natural botanical thickeners and skin-rejuvenating ingredients like coconut oil, vitamin-E and jojoba oil to provide you with an entirely new soothing massage experience. Following are some important aromatherapy massage cream flavors to provide you with physical and mental well being: Peppermint – Reduces digestive problems, relieves headache, muscle pain and uplifts the mind and body. Oregano – Assists in providing mental clarity, reduces depression and relieves muscle aches and pains. Pine – Possess a fresh aroma so it has a deodorant effect and often serves as an antiseptic. Unlike the massage oil, the aromatherapy massage cream can be applied only through body massages. However, whether you visit the spas or perform self-massage, the cream provides an amazing moisturizing and soothing effect to your skin, body and mind. Benefits of using aromatherapy massage cream The aromatherapy massage cream is usually sensual and warm, evoking romantic feelings and healing the mind and body of all. There are several benefits of the aromatherapy massage cream: The aromatherapy massage cream helps reduce stress caused due to hypertensions, depressions, muscle pains and headaches. The cream improves blood circulation, reduces fatigue and cures a sore back. The nourishing quality of the aromatherapy massage cream melts upon skin contact into rich creamy oil, which provides a glowing lustre to the skin. You can massage the aromatherapy massage cream on your baby’s body to ensure your baby has an excellent nervous system and proper growth. However, massage the cream on your own body to achieve a romantic feeling and provide a rejuvenating heal to your mind and body. Aromatherapy Massage Oils Soothe Your Mind And Body Experience an aromatherapy massage with aromatherapy massage oils to soothe your mind and body. This type of aromatherapy massage simply makes you feel splendid. While you experience a massage with aromatherapy massage oils, you will feel a unique sensation of fresh aromas cooling your brain, refreshing your mind and relaxing your body muscles, specially after a tired day out. Benefits of using aromatherapy massage oils The aromatherapy massage oils have a special therapeutic quality and are used in the spas, and physical/mental healing centers. The massage oils are used by aroma therapists and healing practitioners to provide the top quality massage effects to people. Apart from providing soothing sensations, the aromatherapy massage oils have an added quality of healing various diseases like cold, flu, insomnia, severe muscle pain, headache and various other illnesses. Types of aromatherapy massage oils The various types of aromatherapy massage oils soothe, moisturize and activate calming sensations in your mind and body. Below are examples of some major aromatherapy massage oils that can provide you with the best feelings: Chamomile – Reduces swelling, relieves stress, insomnia and depression. Eucalyptus – Reduces fever, relieves sinus pains and coughs, reduces boils and pimples. Lavender – Relieves depression, spasms, and menstrual cramps and controls blood pressure. Rosemary – Reduces indigestion, fights infection, increases concentration. Nutmeg – Relieves digestion problems and help you to sleep peacefully. Peppermint – Stimulates mind and body, reduces motion sickness, muscle pains, neuralgia and decongests the chest. Use these magic aromatherapy massage oils to cure yourself from all types of diseases and ensure perfect physical and mental well-being. Ways to use the aromatherapy massage oils When you massage with the aromatherapy massage oils, they provide you with a comfortable feeling that provides a calming effect to all your senses. The aromatherapy massage oils can be applied on you in the following two ways: By inhalation – in this method the massage oil vapors are inhaled through lungs. This direct inhalation of aromatic oils always refreshes your brain. By application to the skin – this method ensures direct massage of the oils in the body whereby the massage oils get absorbed by the blood stream and enhance one’s health, beauty and hygiene conditions. The aromatherapy massage oils when properly applied help to overcome symptoms of depression and negativity, calm the anxious mind and heal life spirit of all.

About the author:

Author is a marketer for sites such as : Aromatherapy Massage and Massage

Written By: Jamie Snodgrass