Holistic Holidays

‘aromatherapy’

Aromatherapy is an ancient holistic healing, relaxing and energizing process for your body and mind with the use of fragrance. It is regarded as the complementary medical tool in the United States. This is mainly based on aromatherapy essential oil, which is extracted from plant and their parts. These can be extracted from plant leaves, roots, flowers, resin, nuts and bark.

Aromatherapy essential oils are highly concentrated and therefore cannot be used in a pure form. They can be used in a diluted and blended form with other oils to produce the requisite concentration.

In clinical aromatherapy, the oils used have specific effects on your body, including antiseptic and anti-inflammatory. The aromatherapy essential oil is used in different ways to induce the desired effects. These oils can give special chemical action when inhaled, applied to the skin or ingested.

Benefits of aromatherapy essential oils:

Aromatherapy essential oil provides some medical and pharmacological effects on your body. The most accepted benefit of aromatherapy essential oil is for the relief of pain and nausea.

There are various methods of using aromatherapy essential oils. They include:

• Absorption through the skin with massaging, bathing and compressing

• Absorption through mucus membrane

• Ingestion – It is rarely used, and only when your health care provider permits

• Inhalation – It is the most common method of delivering aromatherapy essential oil. This can be either by diffusing the oil in the air, or by direct inhalation with the use of inhalers.

There are many therapeutic effects of aromatherapy essential oil based on the composition of the oil. Some of the therapeutic effects are:

Anesthetic effects:

Some aromatherapy essential oils like menthol or camphor temporarily dampen pain receptors. Camphor oil is mainly used to relieve the pain of toothaches.

Antiseptic effects:

Most of the aromatherapy essential oils are antibacterial, antiviral and antifungal.

• These oils affect on your body’s central nervous system that can induce relaxation or other psychological effects.

• Eucalyptus and menthol are used to treat congestion and upper respiratory infections. It enhances deep breathing. It is good for muscle aches and pain.

• You can use lavender for pain relief, relaxation, depression, burns, skin infections, and rheumatism.

• Rosemary oil can be effective for mental fatigue and acts as a pain reliever.

• Jasmine oils can be effective for dry, sensitive and itchy skin.

• Peppermint oil can be used to treat asthma, colic, headaches, colds, cramps, eliminates apathy, nervous stress, etc.

• The oil greatly affects your mood. They enter through your olfactory system and affect the nervous system. Hence it improves your mood and gives energy and relaxation.

• Aromatherapy essential oil also has cosmetic properties and it can be used as a skincare or hair care product.

• These oils can also be used to reduce the symptoms of bronchitis, fatigue, migraines, respiratory ailments, acne, arthritis, muscular aches and pains, cystitis, cold and flu.

Precautions to take while using aromatherapy essential oil:

• Do not apply the oil directly on the skin where it is broken.

• Before the application of the oil you must know well the properties of the remedy.

• Ensure that the oil is not an irritant and the subject displays no negative reaction. Visit Aromatherapy

Aromatherapy is both an art and a science, widely used by many, but never since the advent of modern medicines in the 20th century has it, or other holistic therapies, been accepted by many in the medical profession. The reason given being the lack of proof that it works. The lack of funds available to carry out clinical trials on the scale required will of course ensure proof will not be forthcoming. But does such scepticism really matter?

More and more aromatherapists are qualifying each year and they are treating a growing number of their clients for ailments ranging from skin complaints such as cellulite to eczema, sports injuries, stress etc etc. There are a growing number of colleges offering aromatherapy courses and these range from an introduction as part of a beauty course to a full 3 year degree covering detailed studies of 100 hundred or so essential oils, their chemical and biological make up and reactions with the human body. A survey in The Times revealed that 75% of people would like to see aromatherapy available on the NHS. The big question for the policy makers is how to integrate aromatherapy and conventional healthcare.

However the growth is happening at grass roots level in some hospitals where more and more nurses and midwives are becoming aromatherapists, using their own initiative. Also, many hospitals and other areas of care are encouraging aromatherapy treatments and a significant number are using essential oils in controlled research projects. Undoubtedly confidence is growing.

What examples are there of Aromatherapy in the NHS?

For example, over 70% of cancer centres offer aromatherapy in palliative care for cancer patients using appropriate massage techniques. Hammersmith, Royal Marsden and Charing Cross are amongst them.

The Neil Cliffe Cancer Centre has a comprehensive aromatherapy support service in place using essential oils and offers aromatherapy education for home use to its patients.

The adult leukaemia unit at the Christie Hoispital, Manchester has two aromatherapists offering support to patients, predominantly to improve the quality of life in a highly stressful environment. There are increasing examples of an aromatherapist being employed by hospice trusts. At Oakhaven Hospice in Lymington, essential oils are used to promote improved quality of life and to provide help with such conditions as nausea, anxiety, depression, aching and stiff joints, as well as pain.

For a number of years now aromatherapy massage has been a key treatment strategy at the Royal Hallamshire Hospital in Sheffield, in areas such as the management of chronic pain in sufferers of multiple sclerosis. Sufferers obtain symptomatic relief of pain and other benefits include improved sleep, relaxation, improved joint mobility and a sense of wellbeing.

Aromatherapy has been practised in the midwifery and obstetrics sector for a number of years, The John Radcliffe Hospital in Oxford has operated an aromatherapy service since 1990 and a survey of 8,000 patients over 8 years concluded that over 50% of women who used aromatherapy treatments during labour found it effective in the reduction of fear and anxiety.

Aromatherapy plays a role in many other environments. Working with the deaf and deaf-blind; with autism; attention deficit hyperactive disorder; and with addictions and allergies, and also with care of the elderly and mental health sufferers.

How long have we known about the powers of Essential Oils?

The evidence is all around us, aromatherapy is working and there are thousands of individual case studies to prove it, with thousands of years of history behind it. The ancient Egyptians were using essential oils for both medicinal and cosmetic purposes hundreds of years before the birth of Christ., The ancient Greeks were fond of aromatic baths and they discovered the spiritual power of flowers and their ability to help sleep, relax, refresh and revitalise, The Romans and Chinese have used plant extracts to treat all sorts of ailments. More recently, in the 19th century, French soldiers injured in battle, were treated in their hospitals with essential oils. It is also well documented that during the time of diseases such as yellow fever the workers in the perfume area of Grasse, in southern France who harvested flowers such as Lavender remained immune to the diseases.

But it was not until the 1930″s that the term “Aromatherapy” was first used by the Frenchman Gattefosse. He accidentally discovered the healing power of Lavender. Having burnt his hand he plunged it into a nearby container, thinking it was water. It wasn’t, it was Lavender and the burn healed quickly and without scarring. Since then many have promoted the use of Aromatherapy, but it is in the home, with use by trained therapists or anyone learning more about the essential oils and trying to experiment, that will see increased usage.

Perhaps some of the proprietary supermarket brands have gone over the top and do not do justice to the term aromatherapy in naming the shampoos and bubble baths as “aromatherapy” products, but there is nothing in law to stop them. Furthermore, I am not a great advocate of pure essential oils being freely available to anyone in a supermarket as they are potentially dangerous products if abused or even used incorrectly.

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.

Aromatherapy is the inhalation and bodily application of essential oils from aromatic plants to relax, balance, rejuvenate, restore or enhance body, mind and spirit. Aromatherapy is the use of natural oils that are derived from flowers, roots, twigs, and other items. Aromatherapy aims to unite and balance the body, mind and spirit, which is then continually validated through the efficacy of the essential oils. It is so popular today that a number of aromatherapy schools are out there offering opportunities for well-trained and dedicated people. The career opportunities offered by the aromatherapy schools greatly vary.

Different aromatherapy schools may focus on a variety of elements of aromatherapy, while other aromatherapy schools may concentrate on the study of aromatherapy along with the other natural health or allopathic health disciplines. An aromatherapy school teaches a form of complementary massage that uses the sense of smell to help facilitate a positive change when a person is feeling ill. Aromatherapy schools teach students how to use oils which are extracted from plants, these are known as essential oils, other aromatic plant parts are also used to help patients who suffer from many different types of illness.

Aromatherapy schools learn students about the distinct types of vital oils and what sickness they assist to alleviate. For example If the patient is suffering from burns, an aromatherapy pupil will be taught how they should take lavender oil, and too the amount and frequency to use it. Many aromatherapy schools think that aromatherapy is a skill and should simply be practiced in a professional style by aromatherapy school graduates. Although new schools learn the pupil to give upward to there hunch as easily. Which is seen by some as being the more stable manner. An aromatherapy school is offered to primarily medical practitioners as well as massage therapists.

Those who are licensed to practice medicine can take an aromatherapy course if they are interested in supplemental treatment that is holistic.The basic teachings in aromatherapy schools is to address questions such as what is aromatherapy, what different oils are used, how can they be used effectively and how they work on the body and mind. Courses will teach students how aromatherapy works into the bloodstream through inhalation. They will also teach you various ways to blend oils, how different oils have different effects physically and mentally. Some medical doctors disapprove of aromatherapy schools and the practice of aromatherapy.

TITLE : AROMATHERAPY: HERBAL REMEDY

Author’s names: Sonia Singh1*, Komal Singh2

Institutional affiliations:

1) GLA Institute of Pharmaceutical Research, Mathura, U.P

2) Extol College, Bhopal, M.P

 

AROMATHERAPY: HERBAL REMEDY

 WHAT IS AROMATHERAPY?

                         Aromatherapy is an alternative field of medicine which is gaining popularity, it aim not only on the treatment but also on prevention of diseases. Aromatherapy practice is predominantly based on the use of essential oils. Herbs are also used at times for aromatic and therapeutic effect. The discipline of studying herbs for the purpose of establishing their medicinal value dates back to the prehistoric era. The tradition of using herbs for the creation of medicines – including recreational mood-altering drugs – is in vogue today also1. It involves use of herbal oils. Aromatherapy activates the limbic system and emotional centers of the brain, activate thermal receptors, and kill microbes and fungi2.

                         Aromatherapy is the practice of using naturally extracted essences of aromatic plants to promote the health and well-being of your body, mind and emotions. These essences, called essential oils, contain the vital life force of fragrant botanical plants. Pure essential oils are the key to success with aromatically. They can restore balance and harmony to your body and mind, while adding depth, dimension, and definition to your life3.

                       The history of aromatherapy dates back to more than 3500 years before Christ’s birth, to a time when the use of aromatics was recorded for the first ever instance in human history. The truth is that the history of aromatherapy is deeply linked with the progress of aromatic medicine, which in its initial stages was typically combined with religion, mysticism and magic. In India, around 2000 BC, various writings mention the role of ‘perfumers’ and ‘incense sellers’. The word ‘aromatherapy’ was used for the first time in the 1920s by French chemist Rene-Maurice-Gattefosse, who dedicated his life to researching on the discipline of aromatherapy.

MATERIALS   IN   AROMATHERAPY:
•Essential oils: These are fragrant oils extracted from plants mainly through steam distillation (e.g. eucalyptus oil).

•Absolutes: These are also fragrant oils, but extracted from flowers or delicate plant tissues through solvent extraction (e.g. rose absolute).

•Phytoncides: These are volatile organic compounds obtained from plants that destroy microbes.

•Hydrosols: These are aqueous by-products of distillation (e.g. rosewater). Many herbs are used to make herbal distillates. They have culinary, medicinal as well as skin care uses.

•Infusions: They are aqueous extracts of various plant materials (e.g. infusion of chamomile)

•Carrier oils: These are oily plant based triacylglycerides used to dilute essential oils for use on the skin (e.g. sweet almond oil) so as to avoid irritation4.

PRINCIPLE OF AROMATHERAPY5:

Aromatherapy works by synergistically using the properties of all the chemicals in essential oil for their correct application

Aromatherapy works through-

a)      Inhalation- The vapour formation of an essential oil is very minute and passes through the lungs from where they diffuse across tiny air sacs (alveoli) into the surrounding blood capillaries and eventually find their way into the systemic circulation from where they exert their therapeutic effect.

b)      Skin absorption- The shin is a two-way road capable of both absorption and excretion ; for example, rub a small piece of cut garlic on the sole sof your feet, within 5 minutes you will have garlic breath . The tiny molecules of essential oils pass through the hair follicles, which contain sebum, an oily liquid to which essential oils have an affinity from here, the oils diffuse into the blood stream or are taken up by the lymph or interstitial fluid to other parts of the body.

 MEDICINAL HERBS USED IN AROMATHERAPY:

                        Aromatherapy is used in the treatment of various diseases such as bronchitis, fatigue, migraines, respiratory ailments, acne, arthritis, muscular aches and pains, cystitis, cold and flu. Aromatherapy also encourages emotional peace and calm with a gently calming effect on mind, body and emotions2. Aroma therapy is a holistic treatment that works as a natural stress buster that can be easily fused into your work environment with immediate positive benefits for conditions like lack of concentration, depression, agitation and of course stress. Essential oils that form the basis of this treatment are derived from flowers and have calming effects on the central nervous system, thereby relieving you of stress and increasing concentration levels. Some of the aroma oils that work best to relieve office stress include the following6:

Lavender Oil: It can be used in a diffuser, which heats the oil and allow its molecules to harmonise with the atmosphere to keep you relieved. If a diffuser is not available, then put just a drop or two of lavender oil on a cotton bud or tissue paper and place it near your work station. Soon you’ll find the fragrance working for you. Not just this, studies show that scenting your office with Lavender essential oil can even reduce computer errors by at least 25 per cent.

Quantity: 1-2 drops

Neroli Oil: The best time to use Neroli oil is the moment you lie on your bed. Just put a drop of the oil on your pillow and let it work to give you a soothing sleep.

Quantity: Less than 1 drop

 Geranium oil: The best way to use geranium oil is to create your own spa with it. Add it in a tub full of lukewarm water and soak yourself in it for 20-30 minutes before going to bed.

Quantity: 3-4 drops in bath tub.

 Basil oil: Take a bowl of water and put less than a drop of Basil oil in it. Now, soak a towel in it and then use it to wipe off your body, specially the exposed parts of your body before going to sleep.

Alternately, you can also put one tenth of a drop of this oil behind your ear and feel the fragrance giving you a relaxing effect.

Fennel Sweet Oil: Again, it can be used in a diffuser placed in the room or on a cotton bud.

Quantity: 1-2 drops

 Rosemary oil: It can be used in a bath or in a diffuser.

Apart from these, if you have any other favourite essential oil, you can use it in the following ways in your office:

      1. A few drops of oil on the cardboard tube inside a roll of toilet paper works well to ensure a nice smelling bathroom.

2. Want to spread the scent around? Simply keep cotton ball dipped in essential oil between your business card box and there – you have scented cards!

 Herbs with their therapeutic uses in aromatherapy7:

Ocimum sanctum Linn. (Basil)
Family: Labiatae

Usage: Used for bronchitis, fatigue, migraines, and aches & pains.

Citrus bergamia (Bergamot orange of Europe)

Family: Rutaceae

Usage: Uplifting, refreshing and relaxing. Encourages cheerful emotions, ideal for depression. 

Used to freshen and uplift a room

Juniperus virginiana (Cedarwood )

Family: Cupressaceae

Usage: Ideal for soothing, harmonizing and focusing the mind. Antiseptic and astringent

properties beneficial to oily skin.

Anthemis nobilis Linn. (Chamomile)

Family: Compositae

Usage: Aids sleep and soothes tired muscles, encourages emotional peace and calm with a

gently calming effect on mind, body and emotions.

Eucalyptus globules (Eucalyptus)

Family: Myrtaceae

Usage: A Powerful, penetrating bactericidal and anti-viral oil for sickrooms.

Boswellia carteri (Frankincense)

Family: Burseraceae

Usage: Good for meditation, relieving stress, tension,anxiety; mucus conditions, aging skin. 

Aids in arthritis, rheumatism, joint aches, radiation burn.

Pelargonium graveloens L’Herit. (Geranium)

Family: Geraniaceae

Usage: Relieves anxiety, hot flashes, palpitations, diarrhea, acne, dry, inflamed skin, minor

surface burns.

Jasminum officinale Linn. (Jasmine absolute)

Family: Oleaceae

Usage: Good for easing trapped feelings of sadness, trauma and grief; anxiety, nervousness,

apathy/withdrawal. Eases anger, aphrodisiac. Good for dry skin. Helpful for post-natal recovery

and also a good skin tonic.

Juniperus communis Linn. (Juniper berry)

Family: Cupressaceae

Usage: Purifying, eliminating with a clear woody aroma. This oil clears emotional overload and

helps to cleanse the body of impurities. A great tonic for oily or congested skin.

lavandula officinalis Chaix. (Lavender)

Family: Labiatae

Usage: Helps ease anger, anxiety, nervousness, stress, insomnia, headaches, neuralgia,

wounds, burns, shock, thrush. Good for cravings, decreasing appetite, arthritis, rheumatism,

joint aches and chest aches.

Citrus limon Linn. (Lemon)

Family: Rutaceae

Usage: Refreshes and cools bringing clarity to mind and emotions restoring vitality acting as a

 tonic to the circulatory system. Has beneficial effects on the immune system, is cleansing on

the skin.

Citrus reticulata Blanco (Mandarin)

Family: Rutaceae

Usage: Fruity, tangy citrus perfume with a gently cheering effect, aiding youthful thoughts and

 feelings. Soothing effect upon the digestive system. Can be used in pregnancy with Neroli to

avoid stretch marks.

Origanum marjorana (Marjoram)

Family: Labiatae

Usage: A warm and spicy aroma with warm comforting tones. Eases loneliness and grief,

relaxing for muscles especially after sport or work.

Citrus aurantium (Christm.) (Neroli)

Family: Rutaceae

Usage: Good for aging, dry and sensitive skin and balancing in times of shock and

hysteria ,aphrodisiac; calm and soothing atmosphere. Relieves depression, worry, stress,

insomnia, mature skin, stretch marks.

Cymbopogon martini (Roxb.) (Palmarosa)

Family: Gramineae

Usage: Refreshing and uplifting. Gently soothing whilst promoting clear thought. Helps all skin

types especially dry skin.

Pogostemon cablin (Patchouli)

Family: Labiatae

Usage: Deep earthy, sensual, grounding oil which uplifts the spirit whilst clearing the mind.

Moisturizing for dry skin.

Mentha arvensis Linn. (Peppermint)

Family: Labiatae

Usage: Clears the head and soothes the emotions, soothes the digestive system, relieves

tired feet and mind.

Rosa damascena Mill. (Rose)

Family: Rosaceae

Usage: This oil is soothing and uplifting, great when sad or tired. A tonic for the female

reproductive system. A sensual and delightful oil, romantic, creative, gently cheering.

Rosmarinus officinalis Linn. (Rosemary)

Family: Rubiaceae

Usage: A powerful mental stimulant which aids memory and concentration restores vitality and

invigorates.

Santalum album Linn. (Sandalwood)

Family: Santalaceae

Usage:Helps ageing, dry and itchy skin. Good for meditation; aphrodisiac. Aids in cystitis, 

venereal infections, chronic coughs, dry skin; anxiety, tension and nervousness.

Melaleuca alternifolia  (tea tree)

Family: Myrtaceae

Usage: Effective oil with powerful antiseptic properties benefits the immune system disinfects

and de-odorises, strengthens especially during the winter months and convalescence.

Thymus vulgaris Linn. (Thyme)

Family: Labiatae

Usage: A stimulating, protecting oil that has a strengthening effect on the the nerves. Ideal for

the treatment of exhaustion both physical and mental. A help to the immune system.

 Aromatherapy and Herbs that Promote Wound Healing8:

                              As many Diabetics can tell you, suffering from wounds that have poor or slow healing can become unbearable.  If a cut or a wound heals slowly, it will increase the chances of becoming infected and spread.  There are many natural herbs that will promote healing in various wounds and cuts, as well as carry antiseptic and germicidal properties.  These ingredients mixed together are Mother Nature’s natural remedies to cuts and wounds. You can try products that carry one or two of these ingredients, however direct application and Aromatherapy methods will provide direct contact with these herbs therefore providing faster results.  You may create an infusion by using fresh herbs, roughly one ounce of dried herb to one pint of boiling water that may be sipped or added to an Aromatherapy bath.  However, for many cuts and wounds, a salve or poultice may be applied as well.  To prevent infection in slow healing wounds, you can use Aromatherapy to clean and purify your air, thereby decreasing the chance of germs in your immediate environment. 

      Aloe Vera is an incredible medicinal plant that has been used for centuries.  It is making headway in the realm of Aromatherapy by being used as a base for Essential Oils.  To make a wonderful Aloe Vera based healing balm for wounds, add your choice of Essential Oils such as: Black Walnut, Fenugreek, Comfrey, Calendula, Horsetail, Rosemary, and Apricot Seed.  All of these herbs also promote wound healing and help prevent infection in cuts and are a wonderful addition to your Aloe Vera based balm. 

      Black Walnut may be infused with Olive Oil for a wonderful herbal remedy that prevents infection in cuts and wounds.  Black Walnut also treats fungal infections as well.  It has been used for many centuries and is also a great darkener for brunette hair.  You can add a few drops of Black Walnut oil into your bath, but be prepared for a dark ring to be left in the tub.  It can be mixed with Tea Tree Oil for a healing salve that may be applied directly to cuts and wounds.  The leaves, hulls, and bark of the Black Walnut tree have all been used in various herbal remedies and formulas. 

      Fenugreek was used by the Ancient Egyptians to treat everything from coughs and colds to skin infections and irritations.  It was also a main ingredient in many Egyptian beautifying regimes.  The seeds of the Fenugreek plant are known for softening the skin as well as preventing infection. 

      Rosemary is known for its rich aroma that smells like Camphor.  It has many antiseptic properties, which makes it perfect for wound and cut healing.  Rosemary has also been used for treating headaches, coughs, cold, mental confusion and fatigue, to brighten drab hair color, in perfumes, and to improve circulation and fight cellulite. 

                          You can make an infusion of Rosemary for your bath by using one ounce dried Rosemary to one pint of boiling water.  Rosemary is also a stimulant, so make sure that you don’t use Rosemary before going to sleep, or you will find that it will keep you awake.

PRECAUTIONS IN AROMATHERAPY5:

a)      Avoid essential oils deemed hazardous.

b)      Keep flammable oils away from fire.

c)      Always consult your health care professional before starting any therapies with essential oil.

d)      Dilute essential oils as recommended to avoid irritation.

e)      Always test essential oils on a skin patch first.

References:

1)      http://www.beautymakeuptips.org/aromathrapy.
2)      http://www.iloveindia.com/indian – herbs/aromatherapy.
3)      Wilson R. Aromatherapy- essential oils for vibrant health and beauty. 2002: 5
4)      http://www.themedguru.com/articles/aromatherapy_more_than_just_good_smell
5)      Bharkatiya M, Nema RK, Rathore KS and Panchawat S. Aromatherapy: Short overview. International Journal of Green Pharmacy 2008; 2(1):13-16
6)      http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com
7)      http://www.circle-of light.com/Aromatherapy/aroma-remedies.html
8)     http://www.bestaromatherapy.co.uk/Aromatherapy_and_Herbs_that_Promote_Wound_Healing.html
 
 

For thousands of years, people “laid hands on” and “anointed” for healing – and it worked! The “laying on of hands” is MASSAGE (and healing touch). “Annointing” is using the essential oils. In our quest for modernization, we got away from this divine directive. It is in our nature to always search for a way to build a better mousetrap and make an extra buck. The birth of the drug industry brought some powerful drugs that work – but carry harsh side affects. Today, more and more people are searching for a better, more natural way of handling their health care – natural ways that do not have harsh side affects. People are discovering the importance of taking an active role in educating themselves about issues affecting their health care. Education is power. The importance of PROACTIVE health care is becoming evident. We are not only into healing but we are also into disease prevention.

Would you like to avoid certain diseases in your lifetime? Would you like to protect your children? You can! Divine directives were given to guide us in this area also. Again, education is KEY! There are root causes for EVERYTHING! We need to address health on all levels – mind (emotional), body (physical), and spirit (spiritual). We are three-fold beings and we need to address our health and health issues on a three-fold basis. It all works together. Emotional release and spiritual root causes work together with physical issues. Massage and aromatherapy work on all three levels to address the TOTAL problem. Aromatherapy and massage is Causeology Care – working with body systems, getting to know your body and listening to it. It is treatment of retiming, balancing systems and positive emotional management that leads from good to great quality of life. This is the opposite of Symptomology Care with treatment of body parts where you look at what disease and where the disease is located and then treat with drugs, surgery and psychiatry which leads from poor to bad quality of life.

Massage helps to relax and reduce stress. It is also used to address problem areas associated with muscle issues. Massage as a therapy can stand alone. But when the two are combined, they pack a powerful punch.

So, what is aromatherapy? It is more than just smelling a pleasant fragrance to make you feel better. In alternative and holistic medicine, aromatherapy is the therapeutic use of essential oils extracted from plants or trees. Essential oils give plants their fragrance and have been known throughout history for their healing affects on the mind, body and spirit. All essential oils are not created equal!

When I began studying the chemistry of the oils and the way they work, I was amazed. Each oil has a frequency, measured in megahertz, and contains between 200 and 800 constituents. Our bodies were designed to heal themselves. When the oils are used, they raise our body frequency and we take the constituents we need, our body systems balance, and our body begins to heal and repair itself. In the process we achieve relaxation, an increase in our body frequency, and a sense of well being, a decrease in our pain and an increase in our range of motion and mobility. The oils promote healthy skin, and the body’s natural defenses promote general health, vitality and longevity, improve nutrition and boost stamina and energy…all naturally and without side affects!

Aromatherapy and massage compliment each other beautifully. Mankind has not built a better mousetrap with the drug industry. The divine directive to “lay hands on and anoint for healing” STILL WORKS!

PEACE, HEALTH and PROSPERITY TO YOU ALL!

As you may know, Aromatherapy is the use of volatile liquid parts of plants, which are called essential oils, for various natural treatments. It is a holistic alternative therapy that has been used since antiquity from all major civilizations and its popularity has been increasing recently.

Cellulite is the dimpling skin found especially on thighs and sometimes on tummy, back of arms and bottom which looks lumpy and ripply. While it is harmless, cellulite discomforts female population especially in summer time. Almost every woman (even the slimmest ones) has cellulite to some degree. It is believed that cellulite is not only fat, but accumulation of fat, fluids and toxins which are trapped in the skin, owing to weakening of the connective tissue.

Keep in mind that there are many things to do to reduce cellulite, but nothing can eliminate one hundred percent the “orange peel” surface of female skin at affected areas. Just to name few, increasing body exercise, decreasing fat income and sugar, drinking many cups of water, avoiding coffee and eating fruits rich in C vitamin, are suggested for combating cellulite. In this article we will present you some aromatherapy tips that can help you remove cellulite.

Essential oils can assist with anti-cellulite treatment in two major ways: Reducing body toxins, waste matter and imprisoned liquids and enhancing blood circulation. The essential oils that are used most for cellulite therapy are Juniper, Citrus, Rosemary, Lemon, Lemongrass, Grapefruit and Geranium oil. Bath and especially massage are the most effective Aromatherapy uses for a successful cellulite cure.

Add 5-10 drops of your favourite essential oil in your bath water and stay in it for at least fifteen minutes, once a week. This time allows essential oil to penetrate your skin and its diuretic and circulation boosting action to be more effective.

Aromatherapy massage is probably the most useful alternative method for treating cellulite because it is applied directly to the affected part of skin and encourage body detoxication and blood circulation. Carrier (or base) oils from various vegetables are used for essential oil dilution. Appropriate carrier oils for massage are among others, Avocado, Jojoba and Almond. Remember to follow carefully the safety rules for essential oils uses. Otherwise, you will run the risk to irritate and harm your skin.

Aromatherapy is not only a delightful and refreshing activity. It is beneficial for a lot of health conditions including skin diseases like cellulite. Using the right essential oils in bath and massage you can regenerate skin cells and reduce the toxins and fat that turn into cellulite.

While the term aromatherapy is sometimes misused to refer to many fragranced products, aromatherapy in the hands of a trained professional is a therapeutic technique using essential oils to promote health and well-being. Aromatherapy can increase energy, trigger relaxation, and reduce stress. Professional aromatherapy is part of the larger field of holistic medicine. Many aromatherapists are also herbalists.

Essential oils, which are the basis of aromatherapy, are highly concentrated derivatives of herbs and flowers. They contain the essence of the plants from which they come. In contrast, perfumed oils and fragranced oils are often synthesized from the plants, created in labs, or diluted.

A holistic approach means that a therapy deals with body, mind and spirit (energy). Only about five percent of essential oils available today are used in aromatherapy, and there are 10 to 15 that are the most commonly used. With few exceptions, essential oils should not be applied to the skin; they are best inhaled. Their aroma does the work.

To use essential oils for aromatherapy, only a few drops are needed. Common ways of dispensing aromatherapy oils are in a vaporizer, on a sachet, in potpourri, in bathwater, or in a lightbulb ring. While candles may emit fragrances thought to be therapeutic, they rarely contain actual essential oils.

Here are some of the typical uses and essences of aromatherapy. Bergamot is said to ease depression and anxiety (be careful if you put it in bathwater because it will temporarily make your skin more sensitive to sunlight). Chamomile is for alleviating insomnia and restlessness. Jasmine supposedly restores confidence and decreases apathy. Lemon is a stimulant that is said to improve memory and concentration. Lavender relieves stress and depression and enhances relaxation. Peppermint helps to eliminate fatigue. Both rose and jasmine are said to have aphrodisiac properties as well. Sandalwood helps to offset stress.

The benefits of aromatherapy are numerous, and these can be improved when combined with massage. Managing pain remains one of the biggest challenges in medical care today, with chronic disabling pain in particular affecting millions around the world. Experience has shown that in many cases aromatherapy can offer a striking way forward as either a complementary or alternative form of pain relief for a large number of people. Generally speaking, aromatherapy has a positive role to play with regard to pain management, both in reducing existing as well as anticipated pain.

A holistic approach is the most effective model for working with pain management. There are many essential oils used for a variety of medical and psychological reasons ranging from headaches and migraines, cold and flu, to an aphrodisiac and even stress relief. You can find a variety of essential oils to help you focus, bring your attention to eating patterns, provide important self-care, and to give yourself the mental space to just be, and to find a way to manage disruptions, and obstacles as you work toward better health, increased energy, and better self-image. The essential oils and aromatic oils are used in conjunction with modern medicine and should be practiced with a skilled practitioner’s oversight.

Let us take a moment to explore further aspects of a person’s unique experience of pain. Refer to the partial list of Aromatherapy Practitioners listed in the Holistic Guidance Practitioner Directory, with their addresses. If you are interested in learning more about aromatherapy, ask any questions you may have and discuss rates or visit holsiticguidance[dot]com for further information.

Herbal Wisdom Wellness & Rehab Center
Practice Area (s):
Alternative Medical Systems, Ayurveda, Chiropractic
Location:
Lancaster, California 93534

Natural Balance Massage & Wellness Center
Practice Area (s):
Alternative Medical Systems, Traditional Chinese Medicine, Alternative Medicine
Location:
Brooklyn, New York 11234

The Heart of Healing
Practice Area (s):
Aromatherapy, Breathing Meditation, Reiki
Location:
Pasadena, California 91106

Natural Order Coaching & Consulting
Practice Area (s):
Balance, Aromatherapy, Natural Health
Location:
Marin County, California 94925

Holistic Healing & Wellness
Practice Area (s):
Alternative Medicine, Aromatherapy, Natural Health
Location:
Plymouth, Michigan 48170

AbyssMindBodySpiritWork
Practice Area (s):
Alternative Medicine, Aromatherapy, Body Work
Location:
Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53211

Kismet
Practice Area (s):
Aromatherapy, Body Work, Reiki
Location:
Venice, California 90291

Angel Presence Healing Center
Practice Area:
Traditional Chinese Medicine, Aromatherapy, Natural Health
Location:
Fountain Hills, Arizona 85268

Three Leaf Aromatherapy
Practice Area (s):
Aromatherapy, Biomedical Model, Complimentary Medicine
Location:
Boulder, Colorado 80304

The aromatherapy approach holds much potential for offering deep and lasting pain relief. It goes without saying that the responsibility of the Aroma therapists is to work always within their sphere of competence. When working with a person in pain, in many cases the person is under the simultaneous care of their doctor or other health-care practitioner (osteopath, chiropractor, etc). A close relationship between practitioners is essential.

Aromatherapy is a form of alternative medicine that uses volatile liquid plant materials. It is a holistic treatment of caring for the body with pleasant smelling botanical oils such as rose, lemon, lavender and peppermint. Essential oils are complex, highly fragrant and volatile substances, with varying degrees of complexity, fragrance, and volatility. Aromatherapy, as it is practiced today, began with the Egyptians, who used the method of infusion to extract the oils from aromatic plants which were used for medicinal and cosmetic purposes as well as embalming. Aromatherapy is one of the fastest growing fields in alternative medicine. It is widely used at home, clinics and hospitals for a variety of applications such as pain relief for women in labor pain, relieving pain caused by the side effects of the chemotherapy undergone by the cancer patients, and rehabilitation of cardiac patients. In Aromatherapy it is held that once extracted, the chemical constituents of a particular essential oil will determine its primary action. Generally, essential oils consist of chemical compounds which have hydrogen, carbon and oxygen in their building blocks. Aromatherapy is a generic term that refers to any of the various traditions that make use of essential oils sometimes in combination with other alternative medical practices and spiritual beliefs.

Aromatherapy has also been used for many centuries in India. Aromatherapy has roots in antiquity with the use of aromatic oils. Aromas are used to identify the oils, to determine adulteration, and to stir the memory. Aromatherapy is already slowly getting into the mainstream. Nurses, doctors, massage therapists, osteopaths and trained aromatherapists are some of the people who practise aromatherapy. Aromatherapy is one of the most popular forms of complementary therapy and is widely used by people buying over-the-counter oils, and by health professionals in a range of settings. Various massage techniques may be used although Swedish massage is the most common. Aromatherapist will take a medical history and then determine which oil, or combination of oils, will be the most beneficial for you. Essential oils will be diluted in a carrier oil, such as almond or grape seed, and then massaged into your neck, shoulders and upper back, or given as a full body massage, or a facial. the oils should not be swallowed or otherwise taken internally, unless under expert medical supervision, as they may be toxic. Allergic reactions are also possible. It’s best to test for this by applying a small amount of diluted oil on the back of the wrist or ear lobe as test before using it fully.

Aromatherapy Uses and Benefits

1.Aromatherapy can be used to relax and soothe the mind and body, to energize or even to arouse.

2.Aromatherapy derived from the use of essential oils to solicit specific emotions.

3.Essential oils can be used in Aromatherapy, to scent potpourri, lotions, cosmetics, perfumes, food flavorings and medicinally.

4.Essential oils can also be used via the bath, diffusion, massage, or compress. Each individual person, fabric, or material may react differently to a particular suggested use.

5.Essential oils can be mixed in a cream essential oil combinations are applied directly to the skin for beauty care or treatment of sores or irritations. By using different essential oils, you can control the nature of those benefits.

6.Essential oils come from plants while fragrance oils are artificially created and often contain synthetic chemicals.

7.Essential oils are taken from a plant’s flowers, leaves, stalks, bark, rind, or roots. The yield of essential oil differs with individual plant species-ranging in most cases from about 0.2 to 2.0%. That’s why literally tons of plant material are required for just a few hundred pounds of oil.

8.Anxiety and stress seem to be the most prevalent benefits of aromatherapy oils.

9.Aromatherapy oils are used in different ways such as being made into candles and incense and burned, used as massage oil or placed in diffusers or burners to heat the oils in order to disperse the aroma throughout an area.

10.Aromatherapy is the use of pure essential oils to benefit your daily life and encourage a holistic lifestyle.

11.Bath-4-8 drops added to a full bath and swirl the water around. Try Twinkle pure essential oil blend, or the healing benefits of our Mineral Spa Bath Salts.

12.Inhalation-1-2 drops on a cotton ball or handkerchief, or 1-2 drops on a cotton ball on the underside of your pillow (avoiding eye contact). See Lavender pure essential oil blend.

13.Humidifier-2-10 drops in a humidifier for a sick room.

14.Sauna or Steam Shower-1-2 drops. See Breathe Easy, or Mystic pure essential oil blends.

15.Hot Tub-8-10 drops in the hot tub after entering and turning on the pump. See pure essential oil blends.

It is evident that dogs employ a profoundly keen sense of smell. For that reason, it is logical that aromatherapy for dogs would be very useful. Yet, because of that aforementioned sensitivity, it is a good idea to consult with an aromatherapy health professional if you are thinking about using this holistic treatment on your pet. This guide will help you discover a bit about essential oils, safety and natural healing for your dog.

Essential oils can be blended with a carrier oil, one drop per teaspoon of carrier oil such as jojoba, sweet almond or olive oil and massaged into the dog’s skin where there is the thinnest measure of hair, such as the joints, armpits or the groin. For dogs, the massage may last 3 or 4 minutes for maximum benefit. Don’t use undiluted essential oils as it could cause a reaction on the animal’s skin, and always consult an aromatherapy health professional for suggested remedies.

A mister can be employed to spray the dog’s sleeping area or bedding and a diffuser also works in spreading the oil fragrance throughout the house from where the dog will breath it throughout the day or night. As with pet owners, aromatherapy for dogs may have different effects from assorted scents. Experimenting will help find the correct scent for your furry friend.

As you learn about aromatherapy for dogs, you may find that learning what works for your pet is time consuming. According to holistic veterinarians, many of the scents that work for humans also work on dogs. Lavender, which for humans creates relaxation or sleepiness, can calm hyperactivity and hyper-sexuality in dogs. It can also be used as a pain killer and as a remediate against vomiting, generally as a massage oil or in a diffuser.

An aggressive dog may be pacified by the use of sandalwood or ylang ylang, by massage or diffuser, with many advocating the diffuser technique until the animal shows signs of being calmer. A blend of a carrier oil and lavender or rosemary can assist dogs in the event of a burn, by massaging the skin around the burn. Lemon oil can help fight against congestion.

A massage with citronella can rebuff fleas, and in a mister or diffuser can deter them from your pet’s favorite areas in the house, just as tea tree oils can help with insect bites and bee stings. People who use aromatherapy for themselves and know the help they experience should consider aromatherapy for dogs for simple problems your pet displays. The use of essential oil is a great way to bring holistic healing into your animal’s life, helping them stay healthy while employing products that are earth-friendly and safe for your pets. Always rely on the services of an aromatherapy health professional for deeper diagnosis and treatment of more serious medical conditions.