Posts Tagged aromatherapy
The Benefits Of Using Homemade Bath Salts
Posted by Sydney Garrett in skin care on January 18, 2012
I don’t know why I didn’t care to pick up a colorful package of bath salts at the store until now except for the fact that I didn’t know anything about them. They just looked so shiny and I knew I wasn’t supposed to eat them. Maybe it was just a luxury for the rich and famous.
But, it is better than late than never. Now that I know about what aromatherapy is and how natural elements are used to alleviate different skin and body stresses. It is a neat fact to know that this is a natural benefit of stepping into a hot spring, or into a natural mineral bath (where natural salts exist). Exfoliating the skin to remove dead cells is a very important beauty and health regimen, so it is also nice to know that you can do this at home with homemade bath salts.
And to think about how much grime I can get out of my pores from using these homemade bath salts! Sweet! All that bacteria and sweat, just scrubbed away in the midst of all that exfoliation. Bye bye, pizza face, bye bye. My face is feeling so relaxed already just thinking about it. All the pores on my face will be so open and free–it will surely heal with happiness with nothing blocking or in the way.
But, what’s this? There’s even more benefits dealing with bug bites and skin rashes? Fantastic! I can use homemade bath salts on areas of the skin that have been affected with minor rashes and infections, Athlete’s Foot and psoriasis, eczema and whatnot. So nice to care for all of that in one fell swoop. (Though I hope I don’t get afflicted all at once!)
But wait! There’s more! I’ve been talking about all of the benefits that homemade bath salts can do externally, but what is also great is what they can do internally. If you have any tension in your muscles, you can massage the salts into your legs. I am sure that you must have experienced muscle tenderness at least once in your life.
You yourself can also rest when you breathe in the great-smelling scents from the essential oils used to mix in with the homemade bath salts. You will find your mood ease up, your stress lift, and your well-being feeling that much better as you breathe in the Bergamot and Lavender oils.
If you stay in the bath long enough, be careful as your fingers will lose moisture and look like prunes. There’s only so much that the Epsom bath salts can do, as they do adjust the composition of the bath water and create a protective layer on the skin so that water does not enter or leave too much.
You can only imagine how much nicer you will feel knowing that you made these bath salts right at home, where you got to choose what scents, what colors, and what beautiful jar you put the salts into. All those health and beauty benefits in one small jar.
Sydney Garrett embraces homemade bath salts and probably has a cornucopia of bath soaps ingredients for fun.
Originally posted 2010-02-05 01:42:22. Republished by Old Post Promoter
Medical Researchers Looking At Sandalwood
Posted by Amy McDermott in skin care on March 26, 2011
Overview
Sandalwood is one of the oldest aromatic materials, being acknowledged in ancient biblical and in Indian text as well as used in religious ceremonies throughout the ages. Botanically known as a small evergreen in the genus Santalum and family Santalaceae, this modest-sized tree (up to 10 meters) provides a great deal of commerce for India and to some extent Australia and is now being examined by the medical industry for its medicinal properties. There are several species of Santalum, but only a few are used commercially, most notably Santalum album (India) and Santalum spicatum (Australia). Other tress from such places as Polynesia and Fuji are in small numbers and in great decline. Oddly, other plants such as the Bead Tree or Candlewood are known as sandalwood but are not botanically parallel. Sometimes, non-related plants such as Red Sandalwood are used as fillers for the more expensive, genuine sandalwood.
True sandalwood contains aromatic heartwood (middle) and roots which when harvested are used for furniture items as well as distilled for its highly prized essential oil. Plantations have been set aside in both India and Australia to meet growing demand for Santalum essential oil. Sandalwood harvesting and manufacturing of incense sticks, furniture and essential oil provides great employment for many in India, especially in southern India. The value of sandalwood in India cannot be overstated. Besides its ceremonial significance, sandalwood is used extensively in Indian Ayurvedic medicine. The harvest and processing of sandalwood is strictly regulated and private ownership of the trees is not permitted. Since 1792 trees have been considered of Indian royalty and thus well guarded and protected. These valued trees take decades to develop their rich aromatic wood and are not considered commercially viable until at least forty years of age, but trees have been harvested at thirty to meet rising requests for its processed products.
Much of the valuable wood is found in the roots of sandalwood and thus harvested by uprooting the entire tree versus cutting it at the trunk. In the last few years alone, the price of sandalwood has skyrocketed, mainly due to rising demand and limited supply. Increased demand has mainly come from the perfume and aromatherapy industry. Sandalwood essential oil and paste is used in Indian and Chinese medicine and of course aromatherapy botanical medicine. The perfume industry covets this oil for its ability to blend well with other perfume oils; hence, it is used extensively in hundreds of cosmetic products.
Over the centuries, the use of sandalwood and its products have been an integral part of several religious cultures. It scent, either as an essential oil or ground as incense, is thought to bring one closer to the Divine. Hindus burn incense made from sandalwood oil in burial pyres and at funerals. It’s also used in temples to remind people of the heavenly realms. Yogis in India use the oil to anoint each other during ceremonies and before meditation as well deity statues often made of sandalwood itself.
Sandalwood Used to Fight Anti-microbial Bacteria
In late December of 2009 a length article by the Associated Press entitled “Pressure Rises to Stop Antibiotics in Agriculture” reported on rapidly emerging bacteria that are resistant to current antibiotics from supposed misuse of antibiotics in the agriculture industry. It was all over the internet in a matter of days. The article provides quotes from professors, researchers as well as government agencies all expressing deep concern and even alarm at the rate of microbial resistance to standard treatment. The Union of Concerned Scientists (UCS) web page includes recent studies regarding antimicrobial resistance in Escherichia coli and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MSRA) (both of which cause great harm to humans and animals alike) linked to heavy uses in food agriculture. This scientifically sound web site also provided a press conference statement (way back in 2001) by Margaret Mellon, Ph.D., director of UCS Food and Environment Program stating that 70% of total antibiotic production is devoted to non-therapeutic uses in the cattle, swine and poultry industry. It seems plausible that over the last nine years since this press release, microbes have developed an armor of resistance to antibiotic treatments.
Concern for antibiotic-resistant microbes is worldwide. A need to find alternatives to conventional antibiotic treatment is rising. Essential oils have been gaining attention by research scientists for their antimicrobial properties. A collaborative study of researchers in Austria and Germany (Flavor and Fragrance Journal 2006 May/Jun; 21(3): 465-468) found that santalols of sandalwood (the main chemical components of sandalwood) in medium and/or high concentrations showed significant antimicrobial potential against the yeast Candida albicans, the Gram-positive bacterium Staphylococcus aureus, and the Gram-negative bacteria Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Klebsiella pneumoniae.
Additional Applications
The Australian and Indian Santalum species, found to be similar in chemical composition, are known by aromatherapists to have such therapeutic properties as anti-inflammatory, antiphlogistic (reduces fever), antiseptic (as mentioned above), antispasmodic (relieves muscle spasms), astringent, carminative (relieves flatulence), demulcent (reduces irritation), diuretic (soft and soothing to skin), emollient, expectorant, as a sedative and general tonic. Their principle chemical constituents are alpha-santalol and beta-santalol. According to a study conducted by the Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and South Dakota University (Anticancer Research 2007 Jul-Aug; 27(4B): 2185-8) application of the chemical compound alpha-santalol prevents UVB-induced skin tumor development in mice. Sandalwood is also thought to help alleviate the symptoms of depression as reported by the University of Maryland Medical Center (www.umm.edu).
Conclusion
The value of sandalwood in some cultures goes back centuries – from burning the fragrant incense in temples to using the oil in sacred ceremonies. In the commerce of today, sandalwood is highly prized by the perfume industry as well as those in aromatherapy. Recent science studies indicate that sandalwood and its principle component alpha-santalol have antiseptic as well antitumor capabilities. With the growing concern of antibiotic-resistant bacteria of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and Candida in both hospital and public environments, serious investigation into the possible uses to of alternative therapies is well underway. Consideration of essential oils, and in this case Santalum album and Santalum spicatum are prime candidates for meeting modern medical needs.
The author utilizes pure essential oils for aromatherapy. More information is available through The Ananda Apothecary at www.anandaapothecary.com.
categories: aromatherapy,essential oils,massage,skin care,herbs,disease,illness,alternative medicine,natural medicine,natural health,health,wellness
Originally posted 2010-01-07 02:05:45. Republished by Old Post Promoter
Practical Aromatherapy At Home: Essential Oils as Natural Antiseptics
Posted by Ellen Tesston in skin care on April 29, 2010
Essential oils hold huge promise in the treatment of varieties infectious disease, and are most readily utilized by the home-practitioner in the form of antiseptics. An antiseptic is formally defined as ‘a substance which reduces the possibility of infection when topically applied to living tissue’. Essential oils do this job exceptionally well, working powerfully and quickly to support the healing of cuts and abrasions through the prevention of infections. Many do a double-duty of actually stimulating tissue regeneration, while keeping the area free from potentially harmful microorganisms. Here’s a quick look at some aromatherapy techniques for moms with children wanting to use natural products for the health and wellness of their families.
Essential oils derive their antimicrobial effect from their unique chemical makeup. Each single, pure essential oil consists of several, sometimes hundreds of distinct natural chemicals. Many of these have antimicrobial activity, and show synergistic effects; blends of the chemicals – as found naturally in the oils – can be more potent than any individual chemical alone. Many studies have shown that Carvacrol, the primary molecule found in oil of Oregano, has exceptionally strong antimicrobial activity. Further studies have noted the combination of Carvacrol and Thymol (a minor constituent of the same oil) to be more potent than either of them alone. So the next time you might reach for Neosporin or rubbin alcohol, you might consider that the remedies nature has made will likely work better.
There’s evidence for an incredible spectrum of antimicrobial action from essential oils, yet it is important to select the right oils in the right amounts. Topical application of Oregano and Thyme may be the best solution for a case of stubborn nail fungus, yet these oils are far too intense for use on soft tissue of any kind except in the most dilute blends. Often a combination of a potent antiseptic with a known soothing oil can improve the overall effectiveness. Here we will briefly profile these highly-regarded oils, and look at some formulas and methods of application: Tea Tree, Lavender, Oregano, Geranium, and Lemon.
Tea Tree (Melaleuca alternifola) is known throughout the world for its protective properties against infections, and may be the hands-down most popular antiseptic essential oil. The leaves have been used for centuries to heal wounds and skin infections, and with ten times the antiseptic power of phenol (a benchmark chemical used in studying antimicrobial action) Tea Tree is a must for every natural first aid kit. One of the safest and most effective ways of controlling minor infections is the immediate intervention action of Tea Tree. For minor ears, nose, throat, respiratory and general skin infections, Tea Tree essential oil will give quick healing support. Tea tree’s tolerability allows it to be used for longer periods of time without the slightest irritation. A drop on a Band-Aid can keep the reddening indication of infection from children’s cuts and scrapes, and when combined with Lavender, makes a soothing rendition of Grandma’s healing tincture.
Often called ‘medicine chest in a bottle’ Lavender is the most versatile aromatic oil in use today. An antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, and anxiolytic, Lavender is helpful in the healing of small burns, cuts and insect bites. The cooling aroma disperses heat and inflammation and brings relief from pain, spasms, and general unrest. With its calming and balancing properties, Lavender is very supportive of deep sleep; as noted in ‘Clinical Aromatherapy’, studies indicate that the aroma of Lavender enabled better rest than common sleeping pills with no side effects. Interestingly, Lavender imparts this action in healing wounds as well. For healing unbroken skin such as burns, apply Lavender ‘neat’ to the wound several times a day; insect bites also get a ‘neat’ treatment. For cuts and scrapes, keep a 50/50 blend of Lavender and Tea Tree on hand for the best all-purpose antiseptic, anti-inflammatory and pain relieving solution.
While the Tea Tree and Lavender blend gives us a formula for regular use, Oregano is the all-time heavy-hitter of essential oils for antimicrobial action. Oregano is serious medicine; it has been the subject of many successful scientific evaluations. Interest in the oil’s efficacy growing in amongst the world’s medical practitioners as infectious microbes become more and more resistant to synthetic antibiotics. Pure oil of Oregano is exceptionally strong – too strong for topical application except in the most stubborn cases, and then only with careful attention. Oregano holds the most promise as a systemic antimicrobial; Oregano oil can be found in enteric-coated (for targeting parasites and bacteria in the intestines) and regular capsules for support of the immune system during illness. Consult a qualified medical practitioner for dosage recommendations.
With a softer aroma and gentle effect on skin, Geranium is versatile choice for frequent use. Known as the ‘flower of constancy’, Geranium helps to lift the spirits and bring joy and happiness to one’s daily activity. Harmonizing and balancing, Geranium essential oil has the quality of equalizing hormonal and emotional extremes. These properties extends to the skin, where it creates balance between oily and dry states; Geranium helps to cleanse the skin while restoring balance, tone, and suppleness (try including in your skin care formulas at 0.5% to 3%). A non-drying, antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, astringent, and general tonic, Geranium is traditionally indicated as a remedy for acne, dermatitis, eczema, and weeping wounds. Geranium essential oil is one of the few that has been used successfully against the MRSA bacteria in laboratory studies. The ‘asperum’ sub-species (also known as Egyptian Geranium) is generally considered the most potent Geranium for its antimicrobial action, with a wonderful sweet and herbaceous aroma.
Lemon essential oil is a powerful antiseptic and bactericide that performs many tasks around the house, as well as for your health. Lemon has a tonic action on the lymphatic system and a stimulating action on the digestive system, additionally providing relief from insect bites and tension headaches. Use this pleasant antimicrobial blend with confidence to clean counter tops, windows, and door handles: two drops each of Lemon, Pine, and Eucalyptus Radiata essential oils in four ounces of distilled or spring water. Keep a spray bottle of this solution handy for your day-to-day cleaning; it’s not only an effective antiseptic, but its aroma will bring a smile to your face.
This is but a sampling of the antiseptic and antimicrobial essential oils available. They are easy to use, and offer a excellent means of bringing natural medicines and cleaners into your life. Many oils have specific action against certain microbes; if you or child or other loved one needs more directed treatment, seek the advice of a licensed or degreed natural health professional, and consult a doctor to ensure the safety of any complimentary essential oil application. There are many excellent books available by reputable authors – ‘Advanced Aromatherapy’ and ‘Medical Aromatherapy’ by Dr. Kurt Schnaubelt, and any of the books by Valerie Worwood are worth investigating to further your knowledge in the practical application of essential oils. These books cover the safe use of essential oils in general, and specific conditions you’ll want to be aware of when delving deeper into aromatherapy. In selecting essential oils over synthetic preparations, you’ll find great satisfaction making the natural choice for yourself and your family.
The author is the owner of Ananda Aromatherapy, a source for world-class Bergamot and other essential oils and essential oil diffusers.
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