Ah, Wonderful Rose Oil If there’s an aroma that more individuals find deeply moving than any other, it is the oil of rose. The scent is divinely sweet, rich, and deeply floral – exclusive to the extract of history’s most revered flower. Though the rose is renown for it’s fragrance, the flower actually contains very little aromatic oil by weight. Some 60,000 roses are needed to distill a single ounce of oil, or about 60 roses PER DROP, a fact which brings the seemly high cost of rose oil into perspective.

The Flower of Love

The hardy nature of the thorny rose bush and the flower’s magnificent beauty make it a horticulturalist’s dream. The genus Rosa has some 150 species spread around the globe, being cultivated in your grandmother’s backyard garden, in vast fields in Bulgaria’s Valley of Roses, and everywhere in between.

Roses have somewhat of a unique past, peppered with interesting stories and extravagant displays of affection. The flower’s association with devotion was perhaps most wonderfully expressed during the Roman empire, with banquet halls being carpeted with petals. Cleopatra once received her beloved Marc Antony in a room literally knee-deep in rose petals – how’s that for greeting? Roses are the unrivaled symbol of love, given dear ones through the ages as an affirmation of true affection. It’s no wonder the flower’s oil has great healing properties, both physically and emotionally, for the human heart.

Rose’s health Benefits

With it’s considerable therapeutic and aesthetic value, the ‘queen of the flowers’ had a special place in medicine and perfumery in the ancient civilizations of Persia, Egypt, India, Greece and Rome. The modern healing tradition of the extract of rose began in the 17 th century with the writings of English physician Nicholas Culpeper. The herbalist described the use of red roses to strengthen the heart, it’s cooling and astringent actions, and its effect on headaches and tired eyes. Perhaps inspiring it’s use as a beauty tonic ‘par-excellence’, he went on to suggest it’s use as a remedy for a variety of skin complaints.

In aromatherapy, the psychological effects are wondrous for those with a broken heart, or other emotional wounds. Rose oil calms and supports the heart center, inspiring a sense of happiness and well-being. When rejection or loss has injured one’s ability to love and nurture, either themselves or those around them, rose oil can bring sweet and gentle comfort and allow an emotional ‘re-opening’.

Use in Aromatherapy

It is the Bulgarian Damask rose, or Rosa Damacena, most often used in aromatherapy. The oil of this 36-petaled beauty is available in two forms: the ‘otto’, or true essential oil, and the ‘absolute’. Harvest of the flowers occurs in the early morning, before the sun’s rays has warmed away the aroma. Rose otto is made in a two step steam-distillation process; the first distillation yields an essential oil and a large amount of ‘rose water’. The water is again distilled, producing an oil which is combined with that from the first distillation.

The absolute is made with a different process entirely. Similar in a way to ‘effleurage’ (the pressing of petals in fat to produce an extract), the flowers are processed in a solvent, with a wax-like ‘concrete’ being produced. Through a second extraction of the concrete, rose absolute is yielded. This method is significantly more efficient than steam distillation, producing nearly 7 pounds of oil per 10,000 pounds of roses (distillation yields 1 pound oil per 10,000 pounds of roses), with a corresponding lower cost. Does one produce a better oil? There is certainly debate; while some argue that traces of solvent are likely to exist in the absolute, others claim the heat of distillation does not result in a true representation of the flower. And as with either method, the quality and effect of the oil varies greatly with the experience and care of the manufacturer – the answer truly lies with the individual and the application.

Using Rose

Oil of rose can be utilized in a number of ways; it is very gentle, being suitable for use on the skin ‘neat’, in massage oil, and in a bath, as well as in a diffuser. As a perfume, the absolute can be worn directly on the skin – it’s ‘tenacious’ quality will have the aroma slowly released for many hours. For therapeutic use for the emotions, a dilution of 10% of otto or absolute in jojoba oil is often used, being massaged into the heart area – a diffuser is very effective for this purpose as well. The absolute or otto can also be added in small amounts to any skin cream, though using a home-made natural recipe is often the nicest. Rose water, or hydrosol, the water resulting from the distillation process of rose otto, can also be used directly on the skin, with it’s mild astringent and toning properties.

A rose and lavender facial cream can be made using the following recipe: Melt ounce of beeswax in 4 ounces of jojoba using a double boiler. Add 3 ounces of distilled water in a thin stream while stirring vigorously with a wire whisk. Remove from heat and continue stirring while adding 20 drops of rose oil (absolute or otto) and 15 drops of lavender. Allow to cool, then enjoy this wonderful homemade cream for sensitive skin.

There are, of course, many ways to enjoy rose oil’s benefits. It is revered on many levels, from its pure aesthetic aromatic beauty, to its physiological healing and emotional uplifting. True rose oil, with its great depth and sweetness, is easily appreciated by almost all who experience this natural wonder.

About the Author

Misty Rae Cech is a Naturopath in Boulder, Colorado. She enjoys Rose oil for it’s many applications, along with other aromatherapy essential oils.

Written By: Misty Rae Cech

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

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

Since the olfactory nerves (the nerves in the nose) are directly connected to the limbic system of the brain, their stimulation by the aroma of essential oils causes immediate, although perhaps subconscious, physical and emotional responses.

The limbic system of the brain not only controls our drives of hunger, thirst, and sex, but more subtle responses of emotion, memory, creativity, and intuition as well as reproductive cycles. Olfactory membranes contain millions of nerve endings causing the sense of smell to be the most acute of all senses.

Inhaling oils triggers a chain of internal reactions with a wide range of results from the release of endorphins (powerful mood elevating substances) to boosting the immune system. Within the limbic system resides the regulatory mechanism of our highly sensitive inner life, the core of our being. Here is the origin of our sexuality, the impulse of attraction and aversion, motivation and
our moods, our memory, and creativity.

Smells work in the limbic system to release neurotransmitters. Encephaline reduces pain, produces pleasant, euphoric sensations, and creates a feeling of well-being. Endorphins also reduce pain, stimulate sexual feelings, and produce a sense of well-being. Serotonin helps relax and calm. PEA (phenylethylamine) the chemical believed to be responsible for the ‘rush’ felt when falling in love is found in both rose water and chocolate.

The pituitary, also known as the master gland of the endocrine system, is responsible for controlling hormone production of other glands. There is an association between an underactive pituitary gland and a decreased interest in sex. Essential oils have the ability to stimulate the pituitary gland. Oils that stimulate the pituitary and, therefore, are considered an aphrodisiac are
clary sage, jasmine, patchouli, and ylang ylang.

Aphrodisiacs are substances that are capable of enhancing sexual pleasure or sexual desire. Certain essential oils can be considered aphrodisiacs since they have the potential to affect the circulatory, hormonal, and the nervous systems. The best aphrodisiac will make use of the brain, since this is where the sexual center is located.

A blend of the erogenous, stimulating or calming, and euphoric essential oils would make a well-rounded aphrodisiac synergy. Jasmine is the most sought after fragrance in the perfume industry because it has a very erogenous effect on humans. Other oils that have been considered as having aphrodisiac properties are clary sage, black pepper, ginger, fennel, frankincense, geranium,
hyssop, juniper, myrrh, patchouli, pine, rose, rosemary, sandalwood, and ylang ylang.

Our erotic life is much influenced by odor. Pheromones, hormone-like substances in one’s personal odor, influence partner choice in humans as well as in animals. Since many essential oils contain pheromones, they affect our sensuality.

Personal attraction and aversion are always influenced by odor. Without the ability to smell there would be little attraction. We may be attracted or repulsed by people we meet while being completely unaware that this is partially because of the way they smell to us in a subconscious way. A scent can be bonding or used in identification in both people or animals. Did you ever see
a Black Angus cow pick out her calf among a hundred little black calves’ As many as 25% of the people who experience smell disorders also lose interest in sex. Therefore, keeping your sinuses healthy could be the hidden key in creating a healthy sex life.

Fragrances can bewitch the most sober people. With a few essential oils you can create your own very personal, natural perfume that may not only improve your health, but attract that special person. To create a special perfume use jojoba which is a nondrying skin-care oil that allows a fragrance to linger longer. Fill a small bottle nearly to the top with jojoba oil, and add the essential oil of your choice (15 to 20 drops).

Use the natural gifts supplied by nature for their sensual and seductive proprieties. Create your own love potions that stimulate your senses and enhance a romantic atmosphere. Whether you use essential oils in a loving massage or in a diffuser to project their fragrant invitation to love and romance, they are a most enjoyable way to increase your sexual energies and arouse your most intimate feelings. To boost libido try 2 drops black pepper, 3 drops ginger and 2 drops sandalwood in your diffuser. For sexual dysfunction put in the diffuser 4 drops rose and 3 drops ylang ylang. For a fantastic massage, increase the number of drops of essential oil and add to 4 tsp. of a mix of sweet almond and grapeseed oil. Experiment and enjoy!

About the Author

You can visit Peggy Carey, “The Zest Lady” at www.a-1essentialoils.com for a FREE Essential Oil User’s Guide or if you would like more information about the oils recommended e-mail peggycarey@pngusa.net.

Peggy Carey is pursuing a PhD in Parapsychic Science and is working on obtaining certification as a Nutritional Consultant. She is an Aromatherapy/Wellness Consultant, and holistic health instructor and writer.

Written By: Peggy Carey

Pets can enjoy the therapeutic effects of aromatherapy as much as humans can. Aside from possibly eliminating bad odors and giving your pet a pleasant perfume, essential oils also serve many practical functions such as boosting your pet’s immune system, fighting off bacteria and viruses, preventing the growth of yeasts and molds and repelling insects.

Aromatherapy is used by enthusiasts, groomers and pet salons to trea mild ailments such as skin inflammations, itchy skin ear infections, rashes, bad breath, flatulence and motions sickness. Psychologically, certain oils also have a calming or relaxing effect on animals. For example lavender oil not only helps kitties repel insects but it also makes them feel sleepy or content. Roman chamomile can be used to treat an ear infection as well as soothe the nerves of a dog in pain.

Essential oils are also frequently used as home remedies. However before you attempt to use aromatherapy on your own
pets, keep in mind that essential oils are always diluted before they are applied to a pet’s skin or sprayed on their coat. Almond oil, olive oil and jojoba oil are common base oils to which a few drops of the essential oil is added. Usually all that is needed is about one ounce of the base oil combined with two to three drops of the essential oil.

Essential oils can also be diluted in a spray bottle and misted onto the pet or the pet’s bedding. You can simply dilute a few drops in distilled water or you can use water and a mixture of aloe, witch hazel or cider vinegar. The traditional recommendation is to use 20 to 30 drops of oil per eight ounces of liquid. Any less might not be effective and any more might be toxic to the pet.

Oils can also be diluted in vodka or brandy and dabbed on the bottom of the pet’s paws or on an acupressure point such as the tips of the ears. This is the technique to use if you are dealing with a panicky pet. Never feed your pet alcohol or essential oil directly.

Essential oils are also effective flea and tick repellents and are nearly as effective as sprays and powders that contain a lot of toxic chemicals. Oils such as peppermint, citronella, lavender, eucalyptus, lemon, geranium, bay and myrrh have been components of herbal flea sprays and flea collars for many years. You can easily make your own flea and tick spray by combining about 25 drops of any of these oils into eight ounces of water. Shake the mixture well and spray it on your pet, being careful to shield its eyes from mist. This mixture can also be sprayed anywhere that you suspect there may be a breeding bug infestation.

When using essential oils it is also essential for you to remember that a dog or cat’s sense of smell is much more acute than our own. Signs that an aromatherapy treatment is too overwhelming for your pet are tearing eyes, sneezing, pacing or whining. Cats may lick themselves excessively and dogs may rub their head on the ground in order to escape the smell. Many pets also have allergies to essential oils. For instance, chamomile is related to the ragweed plant, which is a common allergen for both pets and humans. This is why it is so important to use a mild solution at first and use your powers of observation the first few times you
use an essential oil mixture on a pet.

About the Author

(c) 2005 Liz Santher – All Rights Reserved

Liz Santher is a aromatherapy enthusiast and freelance author.

http://www.AromaTherapySecret.com

Written By: Liz Santher

Whether you are on business trip, a romantic holiday, a family trip or simply want to experience outdoor life, aromatherapy essential oils come useful along the way. Take along carrier oils for diluting the essential oils.

Are you going away on business trip? Whether you have to meet clients, give presentations, hold seminars, business meetings, etc, one can surely feel stressed out. Take along with you lavender, peppermint, marjoram and Neroli essential oils. – Massage your body with 1 drop of marjoram and lavender oil each mixed with sweet almond or calendula oil after a warm bath to lessen the jet lag effect. - Are you jittery before a big presentation or a meeting? Inhale few drops of Neroli oil to settle all the butterflies and ease all the nervousness. - For headaches or migraines, concoct 1 drop of peppermint & lavender oil each with 1 tsp of sweet almond oil and massage it on your forehead, temples, sides and base of your neck. It will ease the headache away and let you stay alert. Few drops of lavender oil on your pillow will allow for peaceful night of sleep. - Eating out and upset stomach go hand in hand. Massage 1 drop of peppermint & lavender oil each with 1 tsp of sweet almond oil on your stomach to help you with indigestion. Or you can try a peppermint tea.

Holidaying with your sweetheart or going for your honeymoon? Make sure you smell desirable all the time. Rose & jasmine oil are considered romantic oils. - 1 drop of rose and jasmine oil each in 100 ml of jojoba oil makes a nice personal perfume for your holiday. - A single drop of Ylang Ylang with its oriental scent is heady potent seduction perfume. - For a romantic bath, add little of your personal perfume to the bath gel or water. You can use the perfume as massage oil on your partner.

Out with the kids. Calendula oil, lavender oil, chamomile essential oil and tea tree oil are some of children’s oil that comes handy. - Inhale a drop of lavender or peppermint oil from kerchief or tissue to ease the nausea and travel sickness. - Got a tired kid on hand. Get your child to relax and inhale lavender oil. - For small babies, apply lavender oil on your neck and shoulders so when you carry your little one around, the fragrance stays with baby. - Stomach upset or colic trouble – 1 drop of chamomile mixed with 1 tsp of sweet almond oil rubbed clockwise on tummy will ease the stomachache. - Lavender oil rubbed on the body helps to keep insects away. - Few drops of calendula, lavender & chamomile oil is good for cuts and bruises. - Aloe Vera gel or lavender oil applied to sun burn will soothe the pain.

About the author:

Kevin Pederson manages aromatherapy sites offering information on Aromatherapy Essential Oils , concentrated extracts of plants and their roots, stems, flowers and fruits.

Written By: Kevin Pederson