Could an Aromatherapy Air Freshener Help Your Health?
Aromatherapy air fresheners can be a great way to easily get the benefits from aromatherapy without much effort. You can find this type of effect in candles, detergents, lotions and shampoos as well.
You can get the same benefits from an aromatherapy air freshener as you can from traditional aromatherapy. It can help to sooth you, or to improve your energy and mood. Some types may even lessen anxiety.
If you use an aromatherapy air freshener, you will be treated to the benefits of aromatherapy daily. Many studies have shown that combining aromatherapy with medication can help to lessen the effects of depression.
Aromatherapy air fresheners can be a great defense against mild stress of anxiety. The essential oils used in these air fresheners are designed to help you manage stress. Other ingredients can help you to feel active.
Skin improvements can happen
Aromatherapy, when used over a long period of time, can have great benefits. By having an aromatherapy air freshener, even your skin will be receiving constant benefits, which will make it healthier than ever
Use aromatherapy air fresheners while driving
A great way to give yourself the benefits of an aromatherapy air freshener is by using it in the car. If you get stressed while driving, try a soothing blend. There are even blends that can help those who suffer from motion sickness.
If you are often in the car, you can try using your aromatherapy air freshener in the car. It can help to sooth you, or to keep you energetic. For people who suffer from motion sickness, it can also be a great way to relief
If you travel often, try using your aromatherapy air freshener in the car in order to gain a lot of surprising benefits. If you need to be soothed or energized while you drive, an aromatherapy air freshener can be great.
| By Matthew Lewis Published: 8/20/2008 |
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Aromatherapy Gift Baskets
Aromatherapy or scent-based remedy for certain ailments is an authentic science that has a long association with royalty and the crme de la crme of society. The use of essential oils in the treatment, makes it unique.
Aromatherapy is an alternative medicine application that involves the use of volatile liquid plant material. The extracted essence or essential oils and other strong scented compounds from plants are used as mood and health enhancers and pain relievers. The chemical compositions of the essential oils usually recommended in aromatherapy differ from the herbal products also widely sold all over the world. The difference is due to the exclusive distillation process used in aromatherapy, which retains or extracts only the lighter phyto-molecules present in the base material. Aromatherapy essential oils are potent with sesquiterpenes, esters, monoterpenes, hydrocarbons and organic sulfides.
You can prepare a great aromatherapy gift basket for someone you love and enjoy indulging in - your mother, wife, hsuband, son, daughter, grandparent or even yourself. Yes, why not! When buying Christmas or Easter gifts for the family, put yourself on the budget too and indulge. You need to know what goes into effective aromatherapy, to put together a great gift basket. When conducting research and marketing for the aromatherapy products, it is essential to know that aromatherapy is a generic term applied commonly to traditions that use essential oils, either alone or in combination, with alternative medical practices. The therapy is also associated with spiritual beliefs. Not all medical treatment involving the use of such scents are included in the term ‘aromatherapy’.
Your aromatherapy gift basket should include one or many fragrant oils, like eucalyptus or grapefruit oil. These oils are also referred to as solvent extractions. There are ‘absolutes’ that are essence oils extracted from flowers and delicate plant tissues. Absolutes also include the essences of fragrant butters and enfleurage pommades. There are ‘phytoncides’ or voltile organic compounds that kill microbes. Among the variety of phytoncides available, ‘allium’ are not desirable due to their disagreeable odors. Then, you could include hydrosols, the aqueous by products. They also have culinary uses and are great skin care options. The common hydrosols are rose, chamomile and lemon.
Your aromatherapy gift basket could also include infusions or aqueous extracts of plants and carrier oils that are used to dilute essential oils for use on sensitive skin. You could make your gift basket special by including basil for sharpening concentration, getting rid of depression and migraines. However, if you are gifting the basket to someone pregnant, then you should leave out the basil oil because of the emmenagogue chemotypes present in it. Bergamot is a great oil to include and is very popular too. It makes an excellent insect repellent and the recipient of the gift basket will definitely bless you. The sharp and spicy aroma of black pepper should be included ina basket for your grandparents. It stimulates blood circulation and eases muscular aches and pains.
You can also consider geranium oil, which is an astringent, antiseptic and a diuretic. If you are gifting the absket to your spouse, you could get a little bold and include extract of jasmine, rose, sandalwood or ylang-ylang, which are used as aphrodisiacs. In the case of the aromatherapy gift basket going out to someone with children, inlcude lavender oil. It is a good antiseptic and soothes cuts and burns, while calming the person. Lavender extract also eases headaches and migraines. Considering lemon oil is also wise. It serves as an anti-stress agent. Tea tree oil and thyme oil can be considered as part of the gift basket too. Tea tree oil is used externally as an antifungal, antiviral, antimicrobial, antiparasitic and antiseptic.
If you are planning to gift the aromatherapy gift basket to a friend who has a history of sinus, them including yarrow oil is a good idea. It helps to relieve cold and reduces the resultant joint inflammation. Your aromatherapy gift basket should also include cotton swabs and cotton balls. The essential oils accompanied with a brief hand-written description on the uses of each speak volumes for the intent. Depending on your budget, you could indulge in one, two or an assortment of the essential oils easily available. There are a number of online resources that even market baskets that can be customized by you.
| By Gaynor Borade Published: 2/20/2008 |
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Aromatherapy Herbs For Healing
Aromatherapy is a form of herbal medicine. It uses the scents in essential oils distilled from herbs, flowers and trees to improve health and vitality. Used properly, it can re-energize and rejuvenate the mind, body and spirit. Aromatherapy comes in many forms. It can be used as oils, candles, lotions and soaps.
How Is The Scented Oil Extracted From The Plants?
Many herbs are used in the production of essential oils and waters for aromatherapy. Essential oils are the aromatic compounds found in the herb. They are extracted by distillation. There are different methods of this but they are all basically the same.
The herbs are put into water which is heated until it produces steam. This releases and then carries chemicals, including the aromatic compounds. The steam is then chilled in a condenser and the material left behind is collected. Oils (which will become the Essential Oil) floats to the top of the distilled water and may be scooped off.
The distilled water part is called hydrosol. If you want to buy a herb or flower ‘water’ the best kind is a hydrosol as this is the by-product of aromatic distillation. Many ‘waters’ are essential oils added to water or alcohol and are not as good as true hydrosols.
Treat Aromatherapy With Respect!
Many people think that because the scented oils have ‘only come from plants’ that they can use as much as they like. Essential oils are very concentrated and are usually measured in drops. Strength wise - one drop would equal the volume amount of two cups. Ingesting one ounce of essential oil could prove fatal.
Unless you are a skilled aromatherapist, it’s best to use essential oils only on the skin. Always mix the drops of oil with a ‘carrier’ like sweet almond oil. Undiluted essential oil can burn the skin.
How Can Anything From Plants Be So Powerful?
Our pharmacology has developed from herbal medicine. Many medications in use today are still derived from plants.
There are more than 250,000 known plant species and yet less than 1% of them have been thoroughly tested for use in medicine. A quarter of our prescription medications are derived from this tiny 1%. The list includes morphine, atropine, ephedrine, warfarin, aspirin, digoxin, taxol, hyoscine - so plants are pretty powerful and care should be taken. Isn’t it amazing to think what other helpful medications are out there and as yet undiscovered!
Growing Herbs For Aromatherapy
A large area of crops is needed to grow herbs for aromatherapy purposes. This is because when calculated on the weight of fresh herbs distilled, plants only yield between 0.01% and 2% of essential oil. So a lot needs to be grown and distilled to produce reasonable amounts of oil.
To produce essential oils, the requirements are the plants, good soil (often organic), irrigation, reasonable shelter from harsh weather, harvesting and distillation equipment.
Hints And Tips On Essential Oils
1. Always read and heed advice on the labels on essential oils.
2. Keep them out of the sight and reach of children.
3. Never put essential oils near the eyes.
4. Always dilute with carrier oil before putting on the skin - or it will burn!
5. Essential oils are for external application only. Don’t ever ingest them.
6. As with any new skin preparation, test the oil first. Dilute a drop of essential oil with carrier oil and apply to the skin on your inner arm. If there is any irritation, discontinue its use.
7. Many herbs should be avoided by pregnant women and by people suffering some health conditions. Always check before use.
For more aromatherapy articles, click here. To submit your health articles to this article directory, click here.
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Aromachology and Aromatherapy - Do you know the difference?
Aromachology and Aromatherapy both promote the positive effects of fragrance on mood and emotion but that may be where the similarity ends. References in commercial writing often blur their distinctions leaving many readers confused. Read on and learn the difference.
What is Aromachology?
Aromachology is the scientific study of the effects of fragrance on human psychology and behavior. This term was coined in 1989 by what is now the Sense of Smell Institute, a division of The Fragrance Foundation, which in turn is the non-profit, educational arm of the international fragrance industry. Aromachology emphasizes controlled scientific study, deals only with the psychological effects of fragrance and considers both natural and synthetic odorants. Aromachology is driven by corporate sponsorship and ultimately endeavors to identify fragrance applications that have commercial opportunity.
What is Aromatherapy?
Aromatherapy is the therapeutic use of plant essential oils to improve physical health as well as psychological health. The term was first used in 1928 by French chemist Rene Maurice Gattefosse to describe the healing action of aromatic plant essences but the use of herbs and plant oils dates back to antiquity. The practice of Aromatherapy remains an integral part of folk medicine. The pharmacology of essential oils is seldom studied scientifically as there is no commercial incentive to do so. Aromatherapy uses only pure, natural essential oils, each with specific attributes for healing, and how they smell is secondary to their therapeutic action.
How are they different?
The two disciplines appear to overlap where aromatherapy uses inhalation of diffused oils to treat conditions related to mood and emotion, such as anxiety, depression, lethargy, or irritability. But even in this circumstance, there is an important distinction.
Aromatherapy does not endorse the use of artificial fragrances which have no therapeutic value and can not affect mood beyond the psychological effects of "odor memory". On the other hand, researchers in Aromachology will point out that the special virtues of essential oils are not supported by a substantial body of clinical evidence. But is there really a conflict?
The effect of fragrance on emotion
The fact that our emotions are affected by fragrance is widely accepted. Memory and emotion are often strongly associated with odor. We have all experienced it. A whiff of a particular odor and our minds are suddenly flooded with a memory and the emotions associated with that memory. There is an anatomical basis for this phenomenon. Within the human brain the primary olfactory cortex, which processes information about odors, is directly connected to the amygdala, which controls the expression and experience of emotion, and the hippocampus, which controls the consolidation of memories. These are primitive functions that have been around since the time in early evolution when we needed to use our sense of smell for survival. Controlled studies would suggest that our appreciation of an odor and our emotional response to it, are determined by the emotional context in which the odor was first encountered, even if the association is subtle and we are not consciously aware of it. This is why our appreciation of odors is such a personal matter and why there are significant differences in odor preference from one culture to the next.
Both natural and synthetic odorants can trigger a psychological response which is at the heart of Aromachology but only the appropriate essential oil will cause a specific physiological response which is the healing goal of Aromatherapy.
Are the claims of Aromatherapy unproven?
It is true that there is little scientific research into the pharmacology of essential oils. Lack of funding is the primary reason. Essential oils are not patentable and so with a few exceptions there is no commercial incentive for conducting research. On the other hand, thanks to Aromachology controlled studies have validated some of the historical claims for essential oils. For example, it has been proven that Rosemary enhances cognitive performance, Peppermint is invigorating and Lavender is relaxing. The practice of Aromatherapy has withstood the test of time. Within western cultures its popularity as a complementary medicine continues to grow.
In reality there is no conflict between Aromachology and Aromatherapy because they have different agendas and neither invalidates the other. In the end, Aromachology may prove to be of great benefit to Aromatherapy by adding the weight of modern research to the large body of common knowledge that has supported it for hundreds of years.
Marilyn Flook manages the Forever Fragrant website which promotes aromatherapy and natural products. Learn more about essential oils and their practical uses.
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What Are the Uses of Aromatherapy Mist?
Aromatherapy mist is a health conscious alternative to other body sprays. Released onto the body, it pleasantly scents your skin, and is also inhaled, which gives you the benefits of the essential oils found within.
Aromatherapy has been used for years as a way to promote relaxation and healing. If you are interested in beginning to practice aromatherapy, aromatherapy mist can be an easy way to begin the practice.
Should I Use Aromatherapy Mist?
Aromatherapy Mist is a health conscious alternative to other body sprays. Released onto the body, it pleasantly scents your skin, and is also inhaled, which gives you the benefits of the essential oils found within.
Many Aromatherapy practitioners use aromatherapy mist as a fast way to get the benefits of inhaling essential oils. If sprayed near the face when the practitioner will be sitting for several minutes, it is easy for inhalation to occur.
All Different Kinds
Many different aromatherapy mists can also be used as wonderfully scented body sprays. Always check on the packaging first however, to make sure they are safe for skin contact, as some mists are not diluted enough.
What Type of Mist is the Best?
Aromatherapy mists are divided into two kinds. Many mists include only one essential oil and are considered pure. Those which include several different essential oils are called blended, and can have more benefits.
| By Matthew Lewis Published: 7/15/2008 |
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Helichrysum Essential Oil Nature’s Healing Wonder
The essential oil of Helichrysum is relatively unknown in the United States, though interest in this natural healing phenomenon is growing, and with very good reason. Helichrysum is one of the most potent, dramatically healing essential oils used in medical aromatherapy today.
The precious essential oil of Helichrysum is relatively unknown in the United States, even in natural health and wellness circles. Interest and experience with this natural healing phenomenon is growing rapidly, however - and with very good reason. Helichrysum is one of the most potent, dramatically healing essential oils used in European medical aromatherapy today. As noted by Dr. Kurt Schnaubelt, America’s leading medical aromatherapist, the effects of this oil are "so convincing that it has never met with any kind of criticism." An essential oil so useful, even those who consider aromatherapy a pseudo-science do not challenge its wonderful effects! So what is Helichrysum oil, and how can it benefit the newcomer to aromatherapy?
There are over five hundred species of the Helichrysum plant; many share the same characteristics of narrow pale green leaves and bright yellow flowers. It is only the Helichrysum ‘italicum’ species that produces the highly regarded ‘Everlasting’ or ‘Immortelle’ oil for aromatherapy. There is even a sub-species of this called ’serotinum’ which is a little more rare - if seeking out the oil, check the Latin name, and be sure it is 100% pure (unless, of course, you’re seeking a particular therapeutic recipe or dilution - even then, the aromatherapy literature states that purity of the original source material is of utmost importance to ensure efficacy).
The Helichrysum flower is native to the Mediterranean, where much of the finest oil is distilled. Because of the growing popularity of the oil, outstanding varieties are now being produced in the United States, with laboratory test results showing exceptionally high concentrations of the principal active constituents - as high or higher than even the fine European varieties. These domestically produced oils are a great bargain compared to the imported oils, with their high therapeutic efficacy and lower costs. Whichever source you choose, be sure it is pure Helichrysum italicum essential oil you use for therapeutic purposes.
So what’s so wonderful about this essential oil from the little golden French flower? Its natural combination of chemical constituents creates one of the most profoundly healing essential oils available. It has the actions of being a strong anti-inflammatory, an analgesic, a tension reliever, and a potent tissue regenerator. It is the only essential oil known to contain a certain class of molecule called di-ketones, well known for their unique regenerative effects. The oil is considered a panacea by some in cases of wounds of all kinds, where it is called for immediately - applied undiluted to the affected area until further medical care is available. This same synergy of action can be effective for a broad array of physical conditions.
As Dr. Schnaubelt notes in Medical Aromatherapy: "The pain-reducing, analgesic, and regenerative effect is unique…(the oil) works for all conditions in which inflamed tissue needs to be calmed down and regenerated." Its most common use is for healing skin, muscle and connective tissue. Helichrysum may be applied directly to cuts and scrapes, perhaps with a small amount of Tea Tree oil for additional antibacterial action. It has been recommended for surgical wounds, applied beginning seven days after a procedure. Continued application may significantly reduce scar formation, and can even treat old scars of various origins (we’ll get to the recipes for this shortly!)
It is an excellent remedy to have available when sports and fitness enthusiasts young and old are at play. Helichrysum is used ‘neat’ (undiluted) on injuries such as bruises and twists that have just occurred to prevent further damage from swelling and hematoma. If applied immediately, a bruise may not even appear; if application is delayed, the oil will still speed healing. Tendonitis may be addressed with a blend of 1% Helichrysum, 1% Lemon Eucalyptus and 1% Yarrow oils in a base of Comfrey cream applied regularly to the area.
Helichrysum is included in many therapeutic blends for the skin. It is considered anti-inflammatory, tissue regenerating and a cicatrisant (scar reducing). To treat scars, old and new, use 25 drops Helichrysum, 25 drops Rosemary Verbenone and 75 drops Calophyllum (Tamanu) in each ounce of Hazelnut oil. Apply regularly to the scar; this formula is even used for smoothing of old keloid scars over a period of six months. For additional support, add 75 drops of Rosehip seed oil to the blend. Helichrysum is used in blends to reduce stretch marks after pregnancy: Use a 3% dilution of Helichrysum oil in Hazelnut with 20% Rosehip seed as the base and apply regularly. During pregnancy, a low dilution blend (1% total essential oils) of Neroli and Cypress in Hazelnut oil is recommended to prevent the marks from occurring. Hemorrhoids may be relieved with 1% Helichrysum and 1% German Chamomile in Sesame oil. Allergic skin reactions and eczema may be calmed with 1% each Helichrysum and Blue Tansy essential oils in Hazelnut oil.
Briefly, Helichrysum italicum is also used for neuralgia - with its regenerative and analgesic actions: Use the oil diluted as a massage formula for painful or tingling areas. . It may offer support for other physical conditions such as fibromyalgia and arthritis in a similar blend, with other warming oils added for improved circulation (small amounts of Black Pepper and Ginger essential oils are often used). The oil may help tinnitus symptoms: place one drop on a cotton ball in the ear each night for one to two weeks. Helichrysum acts as an anti-coagulant, and is supportive of the veins and in cases where vein degeneration has lead to clot formation. It can offer support in cases of coughs, colds and asthma; It is further used for headaches, nervous tension, and exhaustion from stress. Consult a knowledgeable practitioner for advice on Helichrysum’s use as part of your health and wellness program.
On the more esoteric side, where aromatherapy also affects the psyche and emotions, according to Mojay’s ‘Aromatherapy for Healing the Spirit’: "Those (emotions) that are most indicated…are enduring resentment, half-conscious anger, bitterness of spirit, and a stubbornly negative attitude." For many, there can be a direct link between these hardened emotions and physical manifestation of illness. Aromatherapy massage with Helichrysum may be extremely beneficial, as one receives the oil’s aroma, its biological effects, and the healing touch of massage. Here, the oil may be used in a 1-3% dilution, alone or with other oils tailored to the person’s needs.
As you can see, Helichrysum offers its potent healing medicine to many folks interested in natural healing, wellness and fitness. It is an exceptionally safe oil, and can be used by health professionals without hesitation. True Helichrysum italicum may appear expensive relative to other oils, but it is often used in small amounts and low dilutions; a little will go a long way - and will be a much appreciated addition to your natural home medicine chest.
Tarah Cech
Published: 2/9/2008
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Aromatherapy Massage
Setting up the Environment for Aromatherapy Massage
Massage is a highly therapeutic tool in its own right. When massage is used in combination with the healing qualities of essential oils it constitutes a powerful therapy affecting the physical, emotional and spiritual levels. During an aromatherapy massage emotions are often released alongside the accumulated knots and nodules. The tissues and the nervous system are able to ‘remember’ both physical and emotional trauma.
It is extremely important to pay particular attention to the environment in which the aromamassage is to be performed to derive maximum benefit from the treatment. Careful preparation and the right setting will make a good massage even better. Both the giver and the receiver should feel immediately relaxed. Always ensure that towels, cushions and oils are on hand so that you do not lose contact and thus break the flow of massage. An aromamassage should never be hurried.
Solitude and quiet
These are vital. Ensure that you choose a time when you will not be disturbed. Intrusions and distractions are extremely disconcerting, breaking your concentration and destroying the flow of your massage movements. Take the telephone off the hook and tell your friends and family not to enter the treatment room. You may decide to choose some soothing background music although this is a matter of personal preference.
Cleanliness
This is essential. Always wash your hands before the treatment, as any stickiness will be instantly obvious to the receiver. Make sure that your fingernails are short - trim them as far down as possible. Do not wear any jewellery on your hands. Rings, bracelets and watches can all scratch the receiver.
Warmth
The room should be draught-free and warm yet well ventilated. Nothing will destroy an aromamassage more quickly than physical coldness: it is impossible to relax when you feel cold. The room in which you give the aroma massage should be heated prior to treatment and, as the receiver’s body temperature will drop, ensure that spare towels are at your disposal. Keep all areas of the receiver’s body covered, other than the part on which you are working. Warm your hands if they feel cold.
Lighting
Soft and subdued lighting will create the ideal atmosphere. Bright lights falling on the receiver’s face will hardly induce relaxation and will cause tension around his or her eyes. Candlelight provides the perfect setting or you may wish to use a tinted bulb. Choose from pale pink, blue, green, peach or lavender.
Colour
The most therapeutic colours to have in the room are pastel shades - pale pink, blue, green or peach decor and towels are perfect for the occasion. Colours such as red will tend to create unwanted emotions like anger and restlessness.
Clothes
Wear comfortable and loose-fitting clothes as you need to move around easily and the room in which you will be working will be warm. White is the best colour to wear when giving an aromamassage since it will reflect any negativity which is released from the individual being treated.
Wear flat shoes or, even better, go barefoot. The receiver should undress down to whatever level he or she feels comfortable with. Suggest undressing down to the underwear. Point out that areas which are not being worked on will be covered up as this will create a sense of security and trust.
Finishing touches
Fresh flowers add a pleasant aroma to the atmosphere, or you can burn incense or essential oils prior to the treatment. Crystals may also enhance the environment. Rose quartz relaxes and soothes and amethyst is useful for absorbing negativity. You may put a drop of essential oil on to your crystals.
EQUIPMENT
Aromamassage surface
Work on the floor using a firm yet well-padded surface. This will allow you to give an aromamassage whenever you desire. Place a large, thick piece of foam, two or three blankets or a thick duvet on the floor. Use plenty of cushions or pillows during the treatment. When the receiver is lying on his or her back, place one pillow under the head and one under the knees to take the pressure off the back. When the receiver is lying on his or her front, place a pillow under the feet, one under the head and shoulders and perhaps one under the abdomen, if desired.
Ensure that you have something to kneel on to avoid sore knees. If you are unfortunate enough to suffer from back or knee problems it may be a good idea to invest in a portable couch. It is far less tiring and makes the receiver’s body readily accessible. You could try improvising by using a kitchen table if the height is comfortable for you. Do not use a bed as most are far too soft and wide for massage purposes and any pressure applied is absorbed by the mattress.
Essential Oil Recipes to Overcome Sexual Difficulties
Vaginal Dryness. Lack of vaginal secretion can make intercourse difficult, uncomfortable or even impossible. Some of the factors affecting secretion include hormone imbalance such as experienced at the menopause, the contraceptive pill or negative emotions….
| By Michael Douglas Published: 11/25/2006 |
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Top Aromatherapy Recipes For Insomnia
Do you fall asleep easily? If not, you suffer from insomnia or some other sleep disorder, just like 20% of world population does. Learn how you can improve your sleep with some natural aromatherapy tips.
It is well know that Aromatherapy can be beneficial for those who suffer from several mental disorders. The essential oil’s effectiveness comes through their calming and relaxing properties that can soothe stressed mind, unwind tired body and generally lull and overcome insomnia. Before suggesting some tips and aromatherapy recipes, read what exactly insomnia is and how it incommodes health and life.
The term "insomnia" describes the inability to have satisfactory quantity of sleep. It is also called sleeplessness and it is a very common condition that concerns many people. It is believed that over of 20% of world population suffer from insomnia. If you cannot easily fall asleep or you cannot remain asleep or you wake up very early in morning, then you probably are one of them. Health bibliography classes sleeplessness in transient (which lasts no more a week), short-term (which last no more than a month) and long-term or chronic (which lasts more than a month) which is the most dangerous for health and wellness.
The causes of sleeplessness are generally associated with upsetting situations and stress. Moreover, other causes of insomnia are: caffeine, nicotine and alcohol consumption, snoring, asthma and other breathing disorders, sleep schedule changes, bad environmental conditions (too much noise or light), behavioural psychiatric factors such as anxiety and depression. At last, there are several cases that someone cannot fall asleep because of insomnia phobia. That is to describe the fear of not being able to fall asleep!
Sleep loss affects quality of life and wellbeing. Those who have been experiencing sleeplessness symptoms for more than a month are likely to become more nervous, irritable and tired. As a result, they cannot concentrate easily and they have poor memory. What is more, they increase the risk of car or work accidents and finally they may develop psychiatric and physical diseases, like chronic depression and immune disorders.
You can help yourself to overcome insomnia by following some everyday tips. Fist of all, try to stay detached from stressful and overexciting situations. Adopt a regular bedtime routine and make your bedroom as cosy and quiet as you can. Avoid caffeine, alcohol and nicotine consumption, especially close to bedtime. It is believed that diet rich in calcium, magnesium, and B6 vitamin might be helpful. A cup of chamomile tea before going to sleep it is recommended because it has natural sedative effect.
As mentioned before, aromatherapy tips can also be beneficial to treat sleeplessness and provide a restful relaxing deep sleep. The most effective essential oils that are used for insomnia cure are: Lavender, Marjoram, Chamomile, Rose and Sandalwood.
Aromatherapy burners or diffusers can be used in order to create a soothing atmosphere in your bedroom that helps you relax. Aromatherapy candles can scent any room and have positive effect, too. Moreover, you can add 1 or 2 drops of your favourite oil to 1 litre of hot water in a bowl and put your nose over the bowl (approximately 50 cm away for safety reasons) and inhale the steam.
Sprinkled pillows and handkerchief is another way to aim your sleep. Lay over the scented pillows and get the scented whiff and as a result, you will relax, fall asleep more easily and have a deeper sleep. Another relaxing technique that reduces insomnia symptoms is Aromatherapy massage. Essential oils are never used undiluted but in combination with appropriate base oils. Gently rub of body and head can calm nervous system and provide a pleasant experience.
Finally, my favourite relaxing, sedative aromatherapy use is aromatherapy bath. Add 3 drops of lavender oil, 1 drop of chamomile oil and 1 drop of Ylang Ylang oil directly to bathwater and stir them to disperse. Stay in bathwater for 15 minutes in order the natural calming properties of the essential oils to have time to effect and unwind body and mind. After bath, go directly to bed and probably you will fall asleep without any delay and will enjoy a delightful relaxing deep sleep untill morning.
About the author: George Kakaris is greek fan of natural alternative health. Visit his Aromatherapy site to find comprehensive lists of Essential oils and Carrier Oils .
| By George Kakaris Published: 6/19/2007 |
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ROSE ABSOLUTE is a wonderful oil to choose if you are a woman.It is excellent for helping with the hormonal problems ladies get with the menopause or PMT, irregular periods and any time you are feeling low and in need of comfort. Because it is an absolute, it is expensive but it lasts ages…
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Uplifting Aromatherapy
Winter can be a depressing time of year for many of us. The days are cold and dark; and it is a long time until the summer. This article will show you some quick and simple techniques to inject some summer sunshine and cheer into your mood through the use of Aromatherapy Oils.
The season are changing from autumn to winter and the weather outside is growing colder by the day. I do not like the cold and darkness of the winter and this affects my mood drastically. Every year at around this time I start to feel down. I can’t bear the dark frosty mornings or the dreary and long dark nights and I start dreaming of the coming summer which is so far away.
I know winter will soon be over; it’s only 3 months after all, but I don’t have the patience to wait and I pray desperately for a chink of sunshine through the cold winter sky. How will I last until the spring? The answer is in my trusted aromatherapy kit which contains all the scents and memories of the summer.
Inside this plain wooden box is a magical world of scents and reminders which transport me to faraway beaches and tropical shores.
The citrus family of essential oils contain some wonderful oils to cheer my mood. Vibrant lemons, grapefruit and oranges stimulate both body and mind and lift me to far away lands, relaxing under the shade of a tropical fruit tree.
Rose and lavender essential oil takes me back to my youth, frolicking amongst the flowers in the sunshine. The wonderful scents and colours envelop my whole being.
Some of my favourite aromatherapy techniques for the winter months are shown below:
I find it incredible difficult to get up on dark winter mornings so I look for essential oils which will stimulate both my body and mind. I have found citrus based essential oil soaps ideal for the task and have created my own aromatherapy soap specifically for this task. Made using grapefruit, lemon and orange essential oils, the soap is stimulating, vibrant and packs an energizing punch that would rouse anyone from a deep winter slumber. My morning shower is transformed to a tropical shower under the sky and I am energized for the day ahead.
My daily commute is made more bearable with Eucalyptus essential oil. A couple of drops on my handkerchief make an excellent stimulating and refreshing tonic at any point throughout the journey.
Aromatherapy air fresheners are utilized throughout the office, usually citrus or floral scents waft through the air to lift my mood. Simple techniques using my favourite essential oils usually see me through the day happy and energized.
Unfortunately aromatherapy is not enough to ward off the evils of work related stress and I return home short tempered and irritable, and I need another hit from the aromatherapy box.
I need a relaxing bath with my favourite oils. I run a bath, adding four to five drops of lavender essential oil. Into this I sometimes add a couple of drops of rose essential oil or citrus oil depending on my mood. The bath usually does the trick and chills me out for the rest of the evening.
Before bed I sometimes bath in lavender and chamomile essential oil. This is an excellent relaxing bath and really helps me to sleep.
These are a couple of my favourite ways of using aromatherapy and essential oils within my daily life, especially during the long and sometimes depressing winter months.
Try using these techniques to lift your mood or modify them to suit your own life. Aromatherapy is a wonderful way to relax and cheer and you will find your own techniques and favourite oils as you become more experienced with aromatherapy.
Emma runs several Aromatherapy / essential oil websites and writes articles about using Aromatherapy. To buy Aromatherapy gifts and aromatherapy kits to use with these techniques visit her website.
| By Emma Watson Published: 11/21/2007 |
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