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AROMATHERAPY Aromatherapy is a quick, easy way to get a boost of energy. Basically, it uses essential oils to balance, harmonize and promote health and assists the body’s natural ability to balance, regulate, heal and maintain itself. The fragrance of an essential oil can directly affect everything from emotional state to life span. Aromatherapy is effective either by inhalation or absorption through the skin. |
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Inhalation
When inhaled, the odor molecules travel up the nose where they are trapped by olfactory membranes. The impulses are then transmitted to the gustatory center (where taste is perceived), the amygdala (where emotional memories are stored), and other parts of the limbic system of the brain. Because the limbic system is directly connected to parts of the brain that control heart rate, blood pressure, breathing, memory, stress levels and hormone balance, essential oils can have profound physiological and psychological effects.
Stimulating Essential Oils
Peppermint
Lemon
Orange
Elemi
Lavendar
Patchouli
Rosemary
Basil
Ginger
Corriander
Geranium
Lemongrass
Pine
Thyme-Direct Inhalation
Inhale essential oils directly from the bottle any time you need a boost of energy.-Steam Inhalation
Bring 2 cups of water to boil, reduce heat and let cool for 5-10 minutes. Add 2-5 drops of essential oil. Inhale vapors for 5-10 minutes. Place a towel over your head to increase concentration. Keep eyes closed to avoid irritation!-Handkerchief or tissue paper can be used as a wonderful tool for inhalations. Place 2-4 drops of essential oils on the tissue or cloth. Take 2-3 deep inhalations through the nose.
-Aerial dispersion or electronic diffusion
This is best used for: Respiratory ailments, environmental fragrancing, energy sedation or stimulation, emotional upsets, and to clean the air of bacteria and microbes.
- Water spray - Essential oil spritzer
In a 4-ounce container of water, place 10 - 15 drops of essential oils.
Skin Absorption
Essential oils also work through the skin. They can stimulate circulation to surface skin cells and encourage cell regeneration, the formation of new skin cells. They can calm inflamed or irritated skin. Some oils can release muscle spasms, soothe sore muscles, and relieve muscular tension.
Foot and Hand Baths
These can be used to treat: arthritis, athletes foot, poor circulation, low energy, stress, nail fungus and other skin disorders of the hands and feet. Put 5-7 drops of essential oil in a basin of warm/hot water. Let feet or hands soak for 10 - 15 minutes. Add 1/2 cup of Epsom salts for added benefit.
How to Safely Use Essential Oils:
- Use vegetable oils to dilute essential oils if they cause discomfort or skin irritation.
- It is always wise to mix essential oils with a carrier oil before applying them to your skin. Carrier oils are extracted from nuts, kernels, seeds and other parts of plants.
- Use quality organic, therapeutic grade essential oils.
- Keep bottles of essential oils tightly closed and store them in a cool location away from light.
- Keep essential oils out of reach of children.
- Keep essential oils away from the eye area and never put them directly into ears. Do not handle contact lenses or rub eyes with essential oils on your fingers.
- The bottom of the feet is one of the safest, most effective places to use essential oils.
- Keep essential oils away from open flames, sparks, or electricity.
- Do not add undiluted essential oils directly to bath water.
- Angelica, bergamot, grapefruit, lemon, orange, tangerine, and other citrus oils are photosensitive and may cause a rash or dark pigmentation in skin exposed to direct sunlight or UV rays within 3 to 4 days after application.
- Pregnant women should consult a health care professional when starting any type of health program.
- Epileptics and those with high blood pressure should consult their health care professional before using essential oils. People with high blood pressure should avoid using sage and rosemary.
People with allergies should test a small amount of oil on an area of sensitive skin, such as inside of the upper arm, before applying the oil on the areas.
Biography
Nancy Suertin is a Reiki Master/Teacher, Aromatherapist and Raw Food Afficiondo. She may be reached at njsuertin@verizon.net