Aromatherapy Diffusers

Aromatherapy Diffusers
Have you scented those exotic aromas of essential oils emanating from a wall diffuser? Essential oils emanate a subtle fume of aroma, when diffused slowly over a period of time. Diffusion of aromatic aroma brings a whiff of freshness in to your room, like a fresh forest wind.

Diffusion is the process of dispersing essential oils so that their aroma fills a room or an area with the natural fragrance. From the simple to the detailed, many different methods exist for diffusing components oils into your room. Three easy methods exist which can be carried out with equipments you have in your household. Plus, there are numerous diffusers and diffusing devices available from aromatherapy vendors.

The essential advantages of using diffusers are:

1. The complex but unstable aromas of your favorite oil can be diffused slowly over a period of time.

2. You can use any type of oil for diffusing their aromatic fumes.

3. On diffusion, the oil gives out aroma in a calculated manner, from the unstable high note to more stable low note.

4. You can feel progressive onset of different stages of aromas.

You can methods that are simple and can be done in your home itself:

Simple Tissue Diffusion: Drop 3-4 drops of essential oil on a tissue and place it near you. As movement occurs in the room, you will notice the distinct aroma. This method can be used anywhere, how ever this method does not emit much aroma into a room.

Steam Diffusion: Make boil 2 cups of water. Pour the water into a bowl and add up to 10 drops of oil to the water. Use fewer drops if you are allergic. The steam will heat up the oils and cause them to evaporate quickly into the room. This method will quickly diffuse the oil into a room and the aroma is not exceptionally long-lasting and it is highly unstable.

Candle Diffusion: Light a candle and allow it to burn for about 5 minutes. Put off the flame and place 1 drop of essential oil in the melted wax and then relight the candle. As essential oils are highly flammable please be very careful. The aroma is short lived.

Apart from these home made methods, several diffusers are available among many vendors. Decide on what you need to buy, what oils to be used and how much will need to be paid. Here are some of the diffusers that are available in the market today:

Lamp Rings: Lamp rings are in essence a terra-cotta ring that sets directly and correctly onto a light bulb. It has a deep grooved lip that wraps around it. This lip holds essential oil. The heat from a light bulb heats the essential oil in the Lamp Ring and the oil is then gently diffused into the room. Lamp Rings are usually inexpensive. If any essential oil seeps onto the light bulb, the light bulb could burst. Some of the essential compounds might get altered chemically.

Clay Pot Diffusers: A clay pot diffuser contains an opening for adding essential oils. A cork is used to close the opening. The oils permeate through the pot and then diffuse out into the room. The intensity of the aroma depends on the quantity of essential oil that is added to the clay pot. Clay pot diffusers are inexpensive, easy to use, and do not require electricity or batteries. The aroma is strongest in the initial stages and later it dissipates as time passes.

Candle Diffusers: A candle diffuser is a diffuser that uses a small tea light or other candle to gently heat the essential oil to promote diffusion into a room. A candle diffuser is usually made of ceramic or metal. The diffuser has an opening for a candle and a little container for storing essential oil. Candle diffusers are inexpensive, depending on the style and design. Candle diffusers do not require electricity or batteries. There may be a certain loss of essential compounds as the heat will destroy them very gradually.

Fan Diffusers: A fan diffuser uses a fan to blow the essential oils into the air. To use a fan diffuser, essential oils are placed on an absorbent pad or into a tray. The pad or tray is placed into the unit and then the power switched on. The fan then blows air across this pad or tray and transports the aroma throughout the room. Fan diffusers are available in a different brands and styles. Based on the brand and model, they can fragrance a large area. Fan diffusers are very easy to use and are portable. Some times you will need to buy the pad and often these units create some noise.

Electric Heat Diffusers: Like fan diffuser, heat diffusers use heat and a fan to gently heat the oil and disperse the aroma into a room. Electric heat diffusers will disperse aromas over larger areas, depending on the brand and style. They can also help to more efficiently disperse the aromas of thicker oils such as Sandalwood and Patchouli. Some of the components of essential oil may get lost during heating.

Nebulizers: A nebulizer is a device that takes essential oils and breaks them into separate molecules before dispersing the smaller molecules into the room. A nebulizer is a small device consisting of two main parts: a plastic base that contains the motor and a very unusual, clear blown-glass looking device that holds and "nebulizes" the oils.

It is said that nebulizers can supply greater therapeutic benefit than the use of other diffusers because they break the oils down into smaller molecules. The glass piece is highly breakable and expensive to replace. Some essential oils can not be used with nebulizers as they can clog the opening.

You can pick up any of these diffusers available in the market; but rest assured of their action and get ready to experience the exotic aromas swirling around you, like mists of magic.

Aromatherapy Candle

Aromatherapy Candle

Candles provide a glowing history as an object of exoticness and reverence; its use is as old as the human history itself. Many great civilizations and modern societies have held candles as an instrument of radiance; its radiance properties surpass any other similar objects. Candles have long been used as a 'mood-setting' addition to a room or occasion and now more innovative aromatherapy candles enhance that goal.

Aromatherapy practice uses natural essential oils that are absorbed through massage, ingestion or olfaction (also called sensory). Aromatic oils are also use to make candles, which candles have a physiological or therapeutic effect on mood through their fragrance.
How ever, scented candles should not be confused with aromatherapy candles. Scented candles simply contain a fragrance, most probably artificial, whereas aromatherapy candles contain natural essential oils.

Probably, one of the most well-known aromatherapy oils for alleviating stress and anxiety is lavender. A bowl of floating lavender aromatherapy candles to accompany your bath will help you relax after a long day. A small candle on your dining table will sway your desolate mood in to feeling of satisfaction.

For every mood and moment, there is an aromatherapy candle. Some of these top-rated essential oils might be found in aromatherapy candles:

Sage : This oil helps with insomnia and relaxation;

Chamomile : Exciting oil used for relaxing, helps with sleeplessness and anxiety;

Rosemary : An out of the world oil, which is stimulating and uplifting and good for mental stimulation;

Grapefruit : Freshly uplifting and refreshing
Eucalyptus : A strong oil which helps with respiratory problems and boosts the immune system;

Ylang Ylang : Soothing oil as a good antidepressant that helps you relax and sleep;

Geranium : Its sober effects help with relaxation while also being uplifting; helps balance hormones in women;

Peppermint : Sweet aroma helps with digestive disorders, headaches and muscle aches;

Lemon : Invigorating oil which uplifts and relaxes you senses;

As with any health product, you should understand what you are using when burning aromatherapy candles. You must know which type of oil is used in your candles. Certain essential oils can be harmful; it is always advised to be careful. Any type of candle can be formulated to serve as an aromatherapy candle, whether it's a floating, pillar, gel, votive or even jar candle.

Even though the doubts around the effectiveness aromatherapy are still present, all of us do know that candles and aromas are effective for evoking mood and emotions. You will notice candles labeled as "aromatherapy" candles range greatly in price; the price ranging from a low to high cost depending on the quality and availability of oil. Several factors effect the price such as types and qualities of wax, additives or purity, as well as other factors related to manufacturing. How ever, one main ingredient which can make or break the success of a candle as well as the price is its fragrance.

You can make your own aromatherapy candles too at your home! The best waxes for aromatherapy candles are of course a bit more expensive. Many natural waxes such as soy, palm and beeswax burn cleaner and do not emanate soot and are not petroleum or polymer based such as paraffin or gel waxes. More natural cotton or zinc core wick should be used instead of leaded wick because of health hazard issues.

Instead of adding dye to color the candle, include natural substances like herbs and flower petals. Always use pure essential oils for fragrance. This is definitely expensive, but worth it plus you can mix and match your own blends. Palm wax or palm/beeswax blend candles are always better, because they burn so long and clean and they blend quite easily with your oils. Essential oils should be added after the wax has melted and started cooling to preserve the integrity of the fragrance as they easily breakdown and evaporate.

Decorating your candle can be as easy as tying a ribbon around it to adding pressed flowers to it. Make several small motiffs or round candles and add to a basket for a great gift idea. Candles attach emotional importance to any occasion and moments; a great aromatherapy candle has that great ability to enhance the mood and ambience of any environment.

Aromatherapy Blends

Aromatherapy Blends

Blending aromatherapy oils in to a well balanced mix is a workmanship that is a combination of an art as well as aesthetic ness. Aromatherapy blends that complement workout routines in our daily lives are among the fastest growing uses of aromatherapy today.

An essential oil blend is created for aesthetic and/or therapeutic benefits. No special skill is required to produce a successful blend but a spirit of creativity and a thorough knowledge of oils will help, along with a clear understanding of the intended use of the blend. A sensible aromatherapy blend employs all-natural, pure essential oils and delivers a clear benefit. The oils combined in it should be synergistic and harmonious enough to support and enhance oil's effect.
Before starting your blending work, it's very important to understand essential oils in general, as well as the specific parameters and aroma profiles of the oils you want to work with.
Essential oils are essentially very volatile. When you uncap a bottle of essential oil and expose it to the air, its aroma profile immediately begins to spread, develop and change. It undergoes certain defined morphological changes during its life span.
The three main stages of these changes are known as the top note stage, middle stage, and dry out stage. These stages of volatility coincide with three characteristics of the aroma profile known as top notes, middle notes and base notes. The top note stage appears first and corresponds with the most volatile, productive and unstable aroma compounds of the oil.
The aromas of these compounds are very subtle, smooth and fleeting, sometimes lasting just for a few seconds before dissipating. As the top notes evaporate very gradually, the oil enters its middle stage, in which the aroma body is most developed and balanced. A portion of the top notes remain, the middle notes are most apparent and sensible while the base notes are beginning to develop slowly.
As the middle stage progresses slowly, the base notes become visible and more noticeable, because they consist of compounds that are slow to volatilization. When the base notes finally evaporate, a faint but light dry out note lingers. The aroma profile of the dry out stage is thin, sometimes pungent, and suggests the presence of the oil. The dry out component can be thought of as the matrix or the soul of the oil.
Based on their individual aroma profiles, oils can be categorized into top notes, middle notes and bottom notes. A very delicate, highly volatile oil like bergamot is considered top note oil. Well balanced oil like clary sage would be known as middle note oil. Deep, rich, very tenacious oil like patchouli is considered base note oil.
When creating a blend, attempt for balance between top, middle and base note oils. Well balanced oil has a complex aroma profile and maintains the aromatherapy benefit throughout the various stages, although the characteristics of the scent may change. It is more stable and its usage spells a clear motive and defined benefit.
Before blending, analyze the various aroma profiles of the oils by dispensing a drop of oil on blotter paper or unscented tissue. Concentrate, inhale and note your impressions. Write notes and build notes for future reference. Trust your impressions and experience of the oils. Try to be connoisseur of smell. What do the different aromas remind you of? How do they under go change and develop throughout the various stages? How does the oil's fragrance make you feel?
As you develop a definite picture of the oils, visualize how they'll work with each other in a blend. Just decide about the part of the oil to be used, which effects are to be enhanced and which harsh characters needs to be toned down.
As a basic blend, just try to imagine a “DAY OUT BLEND” that helps you relax and unwind after stressful day. Your blend should be soothing and relaxing to your nerves, but also able to drive away the troubles of the day and give that much needed boost to carry you through the at home.
Two of the excellent relaxing oils are chamomile and lavender. Uplifting oils include bergamot and lemon. A careful blend of these oils would produce a light, sweet aroma with complex top and middle notes. The bergamot, lemon and chamomile oil components would lend this blend a fruity sweetness. The lavender would make the sweetness a wee bit more floral-botanical.
If you need the blend to be a little less sweet and more stimulating, a little amount of herbaceous, yet penetrating rosemary could be dispensed. The relaxing, spicy-woody oil of rosewood will serve as an effective base to this blend. If you observe, all essential effects of these oils are purely complimentary and in no way conflicting!
Try and learn which essential oils would match the benefit and aroma you're after. Then begin an experiment with various quantities and combinations, until you create the blend you want. Always try to keep notes on what you're doing, so upon a perfect blend you can repeat and make it more perfect.
A workout blend would inspire a perfectly positive attitude about improving health and physical appearance. A perfect blend is invigorating, inspiring and uplifting and such properties of essential oils can help you boost confidence and commitment all through the day. Some oils are activating, others soothe and calm, and still others fight workout odors. Some work like catalyst, while others are purely energizing.
Some of the invigorating and inspiring oils are: Basil, cypress, eucalyptus, fir needle, ginger, grapefruit, juniper berry, lavender, lemon, lemongrass, lime, orange, peppermint, petit grain, rosemary and thyme.
Examples of soothing and relaxing oils are: Cedar wood, chamomile, frankincense, jasmine, lavender, neroli, patchouli, rose, rosewood, sandalwood and ylang ylang.
Anti-odor and Refreshing oils are: All citrus oils, including bergamot, grapefruit, Limon, lime, orange, and tangerine. Other anti-odor oils are coriander, fir needle, juniper berry and lavender.

Aromatherapy Benefits

Aromatherapy Benefits

Aromatherapy offers its users some unique benefits and introducing aromatic oils into your daily life is quite easy, flexible, and therapeutically beneficial. Numerous essential oils have been use since time immemorial, for various purpose; the uses being quite diverse.

To help you know, below are listed a few ways in which you can get started as a beginner. However, these methods should be understood as guidelines only, and you will need to understand the precise purpose and pay special attention to all safety pre cautions that are attached to the oil chosen for use. It is also important to remember that essential oils are highly flammable. Never allow the vials and bottles of these oils to fall in the hands of your children.

Some of the most common uses of Aromatic oils and other substances are:

As an easy inhalation medication - These oils are used as relaxant to remove the nasal blockage caused due to common cold and allergy. Place 3-4 drops of essential oil on a clean tissue. Place the tissue near your nose and inhale. If you are a first timer, use only one drop to ensure that you do not have a sensitivity or reaction to the oil. Some people are allergic to aromatic oils.

As steam inhalation drops – Common cold and flu can be cured by this method. Initially boil 2 cups of water. Pour the water into a bowl and add 3-7 drops of your oil to the water. Use fewer drops if you are using oil that may cause irritation to your mucous membranes (i.e. cinnamon, eucalyptus, rosemary, pine, thyme, cajuput, etc.).

Place your nose about 12" away from the bowl and inhale deeply. Never inhale the steam constantly and if you notice any adverse reaction, stop immediately. Use of energizing or relaxing oils can also make this method useful any time of day or night.

As room freshener – You can sue aromatic oils to freshen up rooms; a few drops in to a diffuser will help spread the magnificent aroma of these oils. You can sue any of the exotic aromatic oils like Jasmine, Lavender or Rose oil.

As a general household freshener - Add a few drops of your favorite oil to your trash can, laundry wash, drain, vacuum bag filter, or on a tissue for placement in your drawers.

As a bug repellent - Tired of those bugs and insects? Then try one of those great oils. Many essential oils including citronella, lavender, and peppermint act as a natural repellent against insects and bugs. Sprinkle a few drops of essential oil onto tissues or cotton balls and place near your doorways and windows to help repel insects. Be cautious when using these oils, as some oils may not be suitable for use around pets. Be careful not to apply the essential oil directly onto fragile surfaces.

For massage purposes – Aromatic oils are known all over the world for their massaging properties. The art of massaging is never complete with your favorite oil. Add up to 20 drops of essential oil to 1 ounce carrier oil such as sweet almond oil and massage onto yourself or partner. Keep away from eyes and genital areas. Do not apply essential oils to the skin without first diluting them. Read all safety instructions.

For bathing - Some oils make an excellent bathing and relaxing drops. Add 5-7 drops essential oil to 1 ounce carrier oil. Add this blend to your running bath water and mix well before getting into the tub. Be sure to read the safety data for the essential oils you choose to use. Feel the exotic freshness and amazing scent emanating all around you!

Other Uses- Essential oils can be used in making homemade lotions, facial toners, shampoos, perfumes, soaps, shower gels, and other natural products. Additionally, essential oils are often blended for their therapeutic synergistic abilities.

Aromatherapy Bath

Aromatherapy Bath

Aromatherapy also advocates practices of taking bath using one of those exotic essential oils; for many of us, a hot and relaxing bath is both a way to calm down tired bodies and relieve stress. Further more, a few moments to think, ponder, contemplate and meditate can create wonders for the mind and body.

A hot bath with one of your favorite oils adds a new experience to your life, which is otherwise straining and equally boring. Essential oils also called “oil of life”, is soothing and refreshing, when added to your bath tub. Thus, these oils compel us to think over using them at least once a day to feel invigorated. Using the bath as an innovative way of administering Aromatherapy is one of the best for numerous reasons.

Your entire dull skin gets a layer of pure essential oils. The misty vapors rising from the hot water enters your olfactory system and lungs. Your mind will be clear and calm, allowing you to concentrate on yourself and the essential oil treatment. It means essential oils bring a celestial experience to your bath room. The hot bath now makes you, in fact, makes you sweat and tired added with a treatment of oils.

Mandatory sleep or renewed vigor will soon follow such a refreshing treatment. Apart from these soothing effects, you can even adjust the level of essential oils to treat some of your skin conditions like acne and scabies.

Another advantage of using aromatic oil is relieving your nervous conditions by making your mental constitution stronger and calmer. Some essential oils are known to be very romantic in nature; few drops your favorite oil will help you and your spouse to relax allowing passionate moments to overflow. It can also simply be used to aid in your enjoyment of your bath, to feel the balminess of flowing water.

Using essential oils in the bath is as simple as adding 10 drops just before you enter the tub. You can add, perhaps, lavender or Rose oils or intricately add concocted bath oil containing a number of oils. It is purely personal and you can choose your favorite oil. Floral oils like jasmine or rose oils, usually make perfect bath concoctions, but one can feel free to use a particular oil or blend for conditions they wish to help.

The good effects of aromatherapy bath directly seeps in to respiratory, skin and nervous system to reduce problems. It is also discovered that joint problems and muscle pain can also be greatly helped.

Though soaps and candles containing real, pure aromatic oils can be beneficial too, nothing compares the advantage of direct contact of essential oils with the bath water. You must note its high volatility and instability, so it is prudent, when using them in the bath and add those drops just before you are ready to enter.

You must also trap all those steam vapors by making sure that you draw close the shower curtains. This single action will make sure you are reaping the benefits of the essential oils before they evaporate with the hot steam.

Any bath oils containing extracts of Vitamin E, when added to your favorite aromatic oil, can help the essential oil to linger on the surface of the water faster and usually can be placed under hot running water.

If you want to create a lively bubble bath setting or special bath, add a bit of dried milk, a bit of good quality hand soap and fresh rose petals plus your oil. Women will find bathing in rosemary water to be particularly beneficial after a stressful day and/or PMS symptoms. Men can use a pungent orange or ylang-ylang, especially in the morning to get them started for a day of work.

Aromatherapy oils and their usage are gaining lots of popularity among beauty conscious people of the world; many personal care industries are using more essential oils in their bathing products, than ever before.

Aromatherapy Balm

Aromatherapy Balm

Foot Balm

Ingredients:

1/2oz. beeswax
1/2oz. cocoa butter
2 fluid oz. sweet almond oil
2 fluid oz. apricot kernel oil
1/2 fluid oz. avocado oil or jojoba oil
1/2 fluid oz. rose water
5 drops lavender essential oil
5 drops peppermint essential oil
5 drops tea tree oil

Instructions:

Heat beeswax and cocoa butter on stove, just until melted. Stir in oils and rosewater. Mix well. Remove from heat, and allow cooling slightly. Stir in essential oils. Pour into a container. Allow to cool before closing container.

Shea Butter Foot Balm

Ingredients:
1.8 ounces shea butter
1 ounce sweet almond oil
1 ounce coconut oil
1.5 ounces emulsifying wax
.5 ounces stearic acid
4.2 ounces distilled water

Instructions:

1. Combine the shea butter, sweet almond oil, coconut oil, emulsifying wax and stearic acid in a large heat proof glass measuring cup with a pour spout. Place the mixture in a hot water bath until the waxes are completely melted. Remove from heat.
2. Place the water in a separate Pyrex cup and warm for about 15 minutes in a hot water bath.
3. After stirring the oils/waxes together to make sure they are evenly combined, begin stirring the oil/wax mixture with an electric mixer on medium speed and add the water mixture as you stir. You will see the mixture begin to thicken as you blend it. Continue mixing until until Shea Butter Foot Balm is thick and rich. This should take about 5-10 minutes at most.
4. Pour balm into clean jars and allow cooling before capping.

Yield: 10 ounces

Healing Salve for Cracked Hands & Feet

Ingredients:

1 oz Beeswax
1 oz Calendula infused olive oil
1 oz Plaintain infused olive oil
1 oz St. Johnswort infused olive oil
6 drops Vit E
5 drops Pine needle essential oil
5 drops Chamomile (german) essential oil
5 drops Lavendar essential oil
5 drops Tea tree essential oil

Instructions:

Melt beeswax and olive oils together over low heat. Once melted, remove from heat. Then stir in the Vitamin E and essential oils. Pour into containers and allow cooling completely before sealing.

Cooling Foot Salve

Ingredients:

10 oz. coconut oil, solid
2 oz. jojoba oil
3 oz. olive oil
3 Tbs. candelilla wax
1/2 oz. beeswax
1 oz. cocoa butter
.5 oz. menthol crystals
10 drops peppermint essential oil
10 drops eucalyptus essential oil
10 drops naouli essential oil

Instructions:

Combine the coconut, jojoba, and olive oils with the waxes and cocoa butter. Melt over low. Stir to blend. Once melted, remove from heat. Stir in menthol crystals. If crystals don't melt, add heat until fully melted, and then remove from heat. Allow to cool slightly then stir in the essential oils. Pour into your containers, and allow cooling completely before sealing.

Aromatherapy and Pregnancy

Aromatherapy and Pregnancy

Aromatherapy is a natural healing science employing essential oils extracted from aromatic plant sources to treat and balance the body, mind and spirit. During pregnancy, aromatherapy can prove to be extremely beneficial and helpful alternative, while also being very easy to employ and use. In order to use essential oils safely during pregnancy a few extra safety guidelines will need be followed. Though, there are reports of side effects, the user must be cautious enough to report any adverse effects to the physician immediately.

Essential oils are extremely concentrated and volatile. They must be diluted before use. A common dilution for aromatherapy blends during pregnancy is 2 %, which would equal approximately 10 drops essential oil to 1 ounce or 2T carrier oil (this is the most preferred oil).

For an aromatherapy pregnancy bath, add 6-10 drops of essential oil to the tub and mix well before getting in to the tub. 3-6 drops essential oil in a bowl of warm water wrung out in a washcloth works well for a compress. Use the same dilution in a bowl of steaming hot water for a steam inhalation. An aromatic bath is supposed to provide relaxation to the taut pelvic muscles and aid in avoiding stretch marks.

How ever, there are many essential oils that need to be avoided during pregnancy. The following list contains oils that should be avoided during pregnancy and oils that are recommended for use during pregnancy.

Oils To Avoid During Pregnancy

Use of essential oils should be extremely limited or avoided during the first trimester of pregnancy, but has many wonderful uses in the last two trimesters and especially during labor.

Oils to avoid during pregnancy include:

Basil, Cedar Wood, Cinnamon, Clary sage (during labor), Clove, Cypress (after 5 months), Fennel, Hyssop, Jasmine (during labor), Juniper, Lemongrass, Myrrh, Parsley and Pennyroyal

Oils Recommended During Pregnancy

The following oils will be comfortable for using during pregnancy. As always, use caution if you have allergies or a family history of allergies. If you feel you may be allergic to oil, do a patch test first. Good oils for pregnancy include:

Bergamot, Chamomile, Cypress (after 5 mos.), Eucalyptus, Frankincense, Geranium (avoid in early pregnancy), Grapefruit, Lavender. Lemon, Mandarin, Neroli, Patchouli, Petitgrain, Rosewood, Sandalwood and Tangerine

If you are currently pregnant and have been using any of the essential oils that need to be avoided, but are not experiencing any bleeding or cramping, then there most likely is nothing wrong. However, it is strongly encouraged you to consult your doctor or midwife and discontinue use of the "to be avoided" essential oils.

Aromatherapy Benefits for Pregnancy

Listed below are some of the benefits and therapeutic effects of the essential oils recommended for use during pregnancy:

Bergamot	Analgesic, antiseptic, antidepressant, uplifting, and refreshing. Helpful for cystitis during pregnancy.
Chamomile	Antiseptic, analgesic, anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic. Soothes pain from muscular aches, headaches, toothaches and Indigestion.
Cypress (ok after 5 mos.)	Antiseptic, antispasmodic, astringent and diuretic. Helpful for Varicose veins, hemorrhoids and swollen ankles.
Eucalyptus	Antiseptic, antibiotic, analgesic, anti-inflammatory, antiviral. Helpful with respiratory congestion.
Frankincense	Antiseptic, astringent, sedative, warming
Geranium (ok after 3 mos.)	Antiseptic, antidepressant, astringent, refreshing, uplifting. Eases aching legs and is good for poor circulation.
Grapefruit	Astringent, digestive aid, lymphatic stimulant. Helps with Water retention.
Lavender	Antiseptic, antibiotic, analgesic, antidepressant, healing, Relaxing. Helps soothe aches and pains of pregnancy, encourages cell renewal and helps with fluid retention.
Lemon	Antiseptic, antibacterial, antifungal, astringent, stimulant, Tonic. Useful as an inhalant for morning sickness and in Massage for varicose veins.
Mandarin	Antiseptic, refreshing, tonic, mild relaxant. Can ease fluid retention in leg and ankle massages.
Neroli	Antiseptic, antidepressant, antispasmodic, anti-inflammatory, Relaxing. Useful in pregnancy to promote healthy skin cell Regeneration and for easing nervous tension.
Patchouli	Antiseptic, antidepressant, anti-inflammatory, nerve sedative. Eases confusion, indecision and apathy.
Petitgrain	Antiseptic, antidepressant, sedative, refreshing, tonic. Helpful in dealing with pre or postpartum depression.
Rosewood	Antiseptic, sedative
Sandalwood	Antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, antidepressant, sedative. Helpful for cystitis during pregnancy.
Tangerine	Antispasmodic, lymphatic stimulant, calming, sedative. Helps to prevent stretch marks.
Tea Tree	Antibiotic, antiseptic, antifungal, antiviral, disinfectant. Can be used to treat thrush during pregnancy.
Ylang Ylang	Antiseptic, antidepressant, aphrodisiac, sedative, lowers blood Pressure. Restorative when overworked or tense.

Aromatherapy and Children

Aromatherapy and Children

As in case of adults, aromatherapy works wonderfully in case of children too; a cool aromatic bath in a tub is always eagerly awaited by your children. Many essential oils can be used to treat many ailments and conditions of your growing children. How ever, care must be taken in treating children with essential oils, although there are many numbers of safe ones. If used in original concentration, oils may work adversely and cause skin burn and irritation.

Most common dosage for any aromatic oil would be one-third to one-half the adult dose, or a 1-percent dilution (five or six drops of essential oil per ounce of carrier oil), and don't forget that citruses may irritate the skin.

Chamomile, Melissa and fennel are usually used as massage oil, or taken as herb tea. These oils are known to soothe a variety of tummy-aches-and the problems that can lead to stomachaches, such as frayed nerves, anxiety and over excitability. More common problems like colic, gas pains, and nausea and food allergies are also treated by oils.

A chamomile, fennel and Melissa herb tea with licorice helps stop crying and fussing in infants with colic. Essential oils relieve muscle spasms caused when babies swallow air as they eat. Herbal gripe water is still being used all over the world to get rid of colic pains. A carminative water mix contains fennel, chamomile, caraway, coriander and bitter orange peel, all known to kill bacteria and relieve flatulence.

Most digestive problems are reduced by a simple tummy massage using one of the oils. Tummy-Rub Oil can be formulated as follows:

2 drops Roman chamomile
1 drop fennel
2 drops dill
1 drop Melissa
1 ounce carrier oil
Mix together and massage the tummy gently.

A suggested treatment for children before bedtime is a warm lavender and chamomile essential-oil bath. Most children just love taking aromatherapy baths, particularly if they have their own personal blends.

Popular fragrances include orange, grapefruit and tangerine-all antidepressants and relaxants. Nature's gentle but powerful relaxant teas such as Melissa, lavender and chamomile has the property to calm a nervous, over stimulated, over excited child, make headaches go away and gently induce sleep.

Placing a cool compress of lavender on the forehead will give much needed relief from a headache, sleeplessness or over exertion. Frankincense used as a vaporizer or as massage oil is safe and effective for respiratory congestion or infection. Other safe essential oils for children include mandarin, marjoram, neroli, jasmine and petit grain. Tea of yarrow, catnip, peppermint and elder flower rare known to reduce the symptoms of measles, chicken pox or mumps; ginger with a touch of lemon juice is also effective.

The soreness of mumps is lessened by syrups and gargles made from teas of thyme, rosemary or sage. Antiviral oils made from Melissa and bergamot has proven effective against the mumps and chicken-pox viruses. For teething pain in toddlers and young children, give chamomile tea and rub the gums with a little diluted clove oil on your finger.

The following formula may be used for swollen tonsils, mumps and other lymphatic swelling in the neck area:

Neck Wrap
2 cups warm water
8 drops lavender essential oil

Mix the water with the essential oil. While the water is still warm, soak a soft cloth, preferably flannel, in the water and wring it out. Wrap the cloth around the neck. Cover with a towel to hold in the heat. Remove before it gets cold. Repeat as many times as you wish.

Essential oils are universal in nature, as they are known to work in every condition, in all times of the year. Essential oils prove very handy in times of distress and need; a few drops of essential oil are all needed to reduce the symptoms in children.

Angelica Essential Oil

Angelica Essential Oil

Angelica essential oil is extracted from the plant Angelica archangelica (A. officinalis) from the Umbelliferae family and it is sweet herbal smelling oil that has a spicy undertone and is also known as European Angelica.

Oil properties: The oil is of medium viscosity, and is extracted from the rhizome, the seeds and the herb itself.

Origin of angelica oil: The plant is said to originate from Africa and was introduced to Europe in the 16th century. It is considered a native plant of northern and eastern Europe as well as parts of Asia and the Soviet Union. It is found in Scotland, Holland, Lapland and Germany.

It is called Angelica, since it normally flowers on the 8th May, which is St Michael the Archangel's Day, and for this reason it is often planted in monasteries and is referred to as "Angel Grass".

This herb is included in the famous Chartreuse and Benedictine liqueur and when the Black Plague swept Europe it was considered an antidote for it, and "Angelica Water" was taken up in a Royal Prescription and published by the College of Physicians when the plague swept London in 1665. It is also used to flavor gin, perfumes, and traditionally candied for cake decoration and confectionery.

It is a rather large, water-loving herb with broad pointed leaves dividing into smaller leaflets and has small white-green flowers. It has a strong aromatic scent and a large rhizome.

Extraction: The oil is extracted from the roots, rhizome and seeds and steam distillation is employed to achieve this.

Chemical composition: The essential oil is composed of various chemical constituents and includes the following: Borneol, Linalool, Bergaptene, Limonene, Phellandrene, Pinene, Sesquiterpenes, Angelic acid, Sitosterol, Phenolic acids, Coumarins and Angelicin.

Precautions: Angelica oil may over stimulate the nervous system and the essential oil extracted from the root can cause photo-toxicity which in turn could cause irritation should the skin be exposed to the sun.

Safety during pregnancy has not been determined and it should also not be used by diabetics.

Therapeutic properties: The therapeutic properties of Angelica oil include the following: an antispasmodic, aphrodisiac, carminative, diuretic, expectorant, hepatic, stimulant, stomachic, and a general tonic.

Uses: Angelica oil can be used to help in the treatment of the following problems: dull congested skin, irritation, psoriasis, accumulation of toxins, arthritis, gout, rheumatism, water retention, bronchitis, coughs, anemia, anorexia, flatulence, indigestion, fatigue, migraine, nervous tension and stress related disorders.

Summary: This oil is great for giving your constitution a boost by invigorating the lymphatic system and general detoxification of the body. It can also be used to great effect on respiratory ailments and is a great help in stomach related problems including flatulence, dyspepsia, nausea, discomfort and indigestion.

Burners and vaporizers: In vapor therapy Angelica oil can be used to help clear lungs, bronchitis, and pleurisy and ease shortness of breath.

Blended oil and in the bath: Angelica oil can be used in blended massage oil, or in the bath to assist in aiding the lymphatic system, detoxification, digestive problems, helps with colds and flu as well as fighting fungal growths.

Blended in base cream: As a constituent of a blended base cream, Angelica oil can be used to assist with circulation, arthritis, gout, sciatica, migraines, colds and flu as well as helping to encourage the natural production of estrogen and this aids in regulating and easing painful monthly periods.