Aromatherapy and practical uses in today

Aromatherapy is reputed to be at least 6000 years old and to have had its beginning in Egypt. A medical papyri discovered and reported to be from around 1550 B.C. contains all kinds of recipes for illnesses and the methods used in the application of Aromatherapy and Herbal medicine today.

Scent is the most enduring of our senses. It has the power to transform our emotions, and heal our bodies. It can take us to another place and time. I have personally used aromatherapy for many years. It has helped me through many illnesses, such as coping with the stress of breast cancer and stroke recovery.

Earlier in this century in this country, Aromatherapy was looked upon with a “jaundiced” eye. During the 60’s, the Hippie Movement brought it to the forefront again. Again, those over 30 thought it was for “kooks” only. From that time on until now, Aromatherapy has been steadily gaining favor among those of us who realize that there is a lot to be said for some of the ancient and Eastern health practices.

Aromatherapy is great when combined with the art of massage or just to wind down at the end of the day. Like many things, Aromatherapy should be remembered as a little bit goes a long way.

Those of you who have the time, energy and access to the leaves, barks, etc of things used to make essential oils may well be ahead of the game in making their own essential oils. Those of you who do not have access to such material can easily buy essential oils. These may seem expensive, but remember, it works a mere drop by drop as the essential oils are strong.

Using natural plant essences to promote health and well-being, Aromatherapy is derived from ancient practices. It consists of the use of pure essential oils obtained from a wide assortment of plants, which have been steam distilled or cold-pressed from flowers, fruit, bark and roots.

Aromatherapy can help ease a wide assortment of ailments; easing aches, pains, and injuries, while relieving the discomforts of many health problems.

Emotional well being is extremely important and Aromatherapy acts on the central nervous system, relieving depression and anxiety, reducing stress, relaxing, uplifting, sedating or stimulating, restoring both physical and emotional well being.

The appropriate oils can have powerful results, both on the body and the spirit. "Fragrance Oils", "Perfumes" and other artificially made substitutes for Pure Essential Oils can not produce these amazing results. Just think about how you are affected when you are in line at the bank or store and someone comes in with too much perfume or scent. For me, it affects my sinuses and often brings on an immediate headache. I am sure with a lot less application by the wearer, I would not have had that result.

Great Britain and Europe prescribe essential oils for their medicinal benefits. Modern scientific research has proven the potency and healing qualities of Pure Essential Oils. Unlike pharmaceutical drugs, Pure Essential Oils do not leave behind dangerous toxins and they do have powerful antiviral and antibacterial qualities.

The vast majority of true essential oils are produced by distillation. There are different processes used, however. In all of them, water is heated to produce steam, which carries the most volatile chemical of the aromatic material with it. The steam is then chilled (in a condenser) and the resulting distillate is collected. The Essential Oil will normally float on top of the Hydrosol (the distilled water component) and may be separated off.

True Steam distillation uses an outside source of steam which pipes the steam into the distillation unit, sometimes at high pressure. The steam passes through the aromatic material, and exits into the condenser.

For Hydrodistillation , the botanicals are fully submerged in water, producing a "soup", the steam of which contains the aromatic plant molecules. This is the most ancient method of distillation and the most versatile. It's the method most often used in primitive countries. The risk, of course, is that the still can run dry, or be overheated, burning the aromatics and resulting in an EO with a burnt smell. Hydrodistillation seems to work best for powders (ie, spice powders, ground wood, etc.) and very tough materials like roots, wood, or nuts.

A water and steam distillation arrangement can be compared to a kitchen steamer basket, with the botanicals supported in a "basket" over boiling water, thus exposing the plant material only to the rising steam vapors. This is the best method for distilling leafy materials, but doesn't work well for woods, roots, seeds, etc.

There is a method called Solvent Extraction for Absolutes and Concretes. This is used for very delicate aromatics, such as Jasmine, Linden Blossom,etc., which can not survive the process of distillation. To capture their magical aromas, a process of solvent extraction is used.

An extracting unit is loaded with perforated trays of blossoms. The blossoms are washed repeatedly with a solvent (usually hexane.) The solvent dissolves all extractable matter from the plant which includes non-aromatic waxes, pigments and highly volatile aromatic molecules. The solution containing both solvent and dissolvable plant material is filtered and the filtrate subjected to low pressure distillation to recover the solvent for further use. The remaining waxy mass is what is called the concrete and it contains in the case of J. grandiflorum as much as 55% of the volatile oil.

The concentrated concretes are processed further to remove the waxy materials which dilute the pure essential oil. To prepare the absolute from the concrete, the waxy concrete is warmed and stirred with alcohol (usually ethanol.). During the heating and stirring process the concrete breaks up into minute globules. Since the aromatic molecules are more soluble in alcohol than is the wax an efficient separation of the two takes place. But along with the aromatic molecules a certain amount of wax also becomes dissolved and this can only be removed by agitating and freezing the solution at very low temperatures (around -30 degrees F) In this way most of the wax precipates out. As a final precaution the purified solution is cold filtered leaving only the wax-free material (the absolute.)

This solvent extraction actually yields three usable products; first the concrete (as in rose concrete, my favorite solid perfume), the precious absolutes, and the floral waxes, for addition to candles, thickening creams and lotions as a softly floral scented alternative to beeswax.

Another process is called Carbon Dioxide Extraction and that is when CO2 (carbon dioxide) is subjected to high pressure, the gas turns into liquid. This liquid CO2 can be used as a very inert, safe, "liquid solvent." which will extract the aromatic molecules in a process similar to that used to extract absolutes (above.) The advantage, of course, is that no solvent residue remains, since at normal pressure and temperature, the CO2 simply reverts to a gas and evaporates. This process is used to give essences of some aromatics that don't yield essential oils, such as Rose Hip Seed, and Calendula. In some people’s experiences or opinions if the same essential oil is available both as a steam distilled EO and a CO2 extracted essence, then CO2 seems to have a richer, more intense scent, since more of the aromatic chemicals are released through this process.

Another method is called cold pressing Have you ever scored the skin of an orange or lemon and have been hit with the spray of orange or lemon essential? The cold pressed citrus oils are commercial produced just this way, by machines which score the rind and capture the resulting oil. Although many citrus oils are also produced by steam distillation, they seem to lack the vibrancy of the cold pressed oils.

Finally there is an extraction method called Florasols/Phytols and this extraction method uses a new type of benign gaseous solvents. In the late 1980s Dr. Peter Wilde first recognized the unique properties of these solvents for the extraction of aromatic oils and biologically active components from plant materials, for use in the food, pharmaceutical, aromatherapy and perfume industries. "Florasol" (R134a), is the solvent upon which the process is based. Extraction occurs at or below ambient temperatures, hence there is no thermal degradation of the products. The extraction process utilizes the selectivity of the solvent and produces a free flowing clear oil free of waxes.

Safety is important when using aromatherapy. Most oils are very strong and just because they are not listed as dangerous, does not mean they could not be harmful to you. Inappropriate use can often lead to adverse and damaging side effects. Here is an example, in the event one was pregnant, one would avoid extensive use of the following essential oils: Basil, Cedarwood, Clary, Coriander, Hyssop, Jasmine, Juniper, Marjoram. Oregano, Myrrh, Peppermint (which should also be avoided while nursing), Rockrose, Rosemary, Sage and Thyme.

If you suffer from any sort of seizure disorder avoid the use of the following essential oils: Basil, Fennel, Hyssop, Rosemary and Sage.

If you have Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) avoid Geranium essential oil. Avoid Pine, Rosemary, Sage and Thyme essential oils if you have high blood pressure. I have read that those with kidney problems should approach Juniper, Sandalwood and Coriander with caution and that the following oils can cause severe sun damage (photosensitivity.): Bergamot, expressed Lime and Rue, very strong, Cumin, Lime, Mandarine, Lemon, Tangerine, Orange, Verbena (moderate), Angelica, Caraway, Cassia, Cinnamon Bark,Grapefruit, Honeysuckle absolute, Laurel Leaf Abs., Patchouli (mild), Virginia Cedarwood, Dill weed, and Petitgrain (very mild.).

Further research shows that Clary should not be used when consuming alcohol, because it can greatly increase its effects. Marjoram and Chamomile can cause drowsiness. Two oils with almost identical components that are too dangerous to use lightly, if at all, are birch essential oil (Betula lenta) and Wintergreen essential oil. There two oils, plus Sage and Thuja, should not be used by anyone except a clinically trained aromatherapist.

I am listing some Carcinogenic oils: Calamus, Sassafras. (Please note: Sassafras E O is banned for use in cosmetics and toiletries in all of Europe.) Others have such potentially dangerous effects as to make them too risky to experiment with. The oils on my personal 'to be avoided at all costs' list are: Bitter Almond, Calamus (grown in Europe or Asia) Yellow Camphor, Horseradish, Mugwort, Mustard, Rue, Sassafras, Southernwood, Tansy (other than Annual Tansy), and Wormwood. Needless to say, there are plenty of the “safe” oils to play with! I have read that many multilevel marketing companies use some of these dangerous oils in their products, so it pays to read the labels and avoid the ones that use them.

We now realize that most research in substances that are antiviral, antibacterial, etc. are funded by the pharmaceutical conglomerates and they have no real interest in testing products that can not be patented, that are available to the general public without a doctors prescription. Hence, there is not a huge body of test data about the healing effects of essential oils.

Please use all proper precautions in using these powerful aromatic essences, and consult a medical practitioner when in doubt. We are in no way responsible for misuse of the information presented herein. Anecdotal evidence indicates that the following essential oils may have some antiviral effects. We do not have any scientific proof and we suggest that any you may use should be done with the help of a certified Aromatherapist* or your physician. Remember we are talking about Essential Oils here, not fresh herbs.

Tea Tree, Manuka, Dalmation Sage, Cinnamon Leaf, Eucalyptus Radiata, Helichrysum Italicuum, Black Pepper, Lavender, Lemon, Peppermint, Steam Distilled Lime, Cassia, Cinnamon Bark, Thymes, True Melissa (said to help against the herpes virus), Clove Bud, Hyssop decumbens, Oregano, Niaoulis, Myrrh, Ravensara, (said to be effective against Mononucleosis, herpes, shingles and flus.), Cistus, Elemi, Palma Rosa, Sandalwood, Thuja (Cedarleaf), Patchouli, cajeput, and Laurel.

*I want to point out that in the United States Aromatherapy Certification is meaningless. There is no official recognition by any state governing agency of certification. In order to practice any sort of hands on healing therapy one needs another professional license, ie, massage therapist, physical therapist, registered nurse, etc.

However, none of this exempts one from discovering Aromatherapy on ones one for ones own use.

Essential oils said to have an Anti-fungal effect are as follows: Again we say, we do not have any scientific proof and we suggest that any you may use should be done with the help of a certified Aromatherapist* or your physician.

Tea Tree (melaleuca alternifolia) Most frequently recommended for the treatment of athletes foot, candida, in fact any sort of fungus. Tea tree oil is an effective all round anti-bacterial, anti-viral and anti-fungal oil. Many authorities recommend using Tea Tree neat (undiluted) but much recent evidence shows that it is actually more effective in a 2% dilution. Many consider it much too harsh to use undiluted on the skin.

Tea Tree is the usually suggested aromatherapy remedy for Ringworm.

Myrrh Essential Oil. (Commiphora myrrha)

Specifically often recommended in a blend to treat "Jock Strap Itch." Some have found it effective blended with tea tree and worked into Clay, used as a body powder. Please be aware that one does not use Corn Starch in this "do it yourself" dusting powder as it tends to feed the fungus and makes things worse, not better.

Cedarwood, either Atlas or Virginia is said to wonderful for clearing out musty closets or basements. Perhaps blended with lemongrass. For a basement or large area, I would suggest running in a nebulizing diffuser to really fill the atmosphere; For a closet, first wipe the closet down with a blend of the oils in water, allow to dry thoroughly (perhaps running a dehumidifier, if available)

Lemon Eucalyptus, (Eucalyptus citriodora) in a nebulizing diffuser is said to be great when part of the house was flooded, wet carpets etc. It is supposed to be a wonderful air cleaner and strong antifungal for use in a large area.

Tagetes Tagetes glandulifera is recommended for use with fungi that affect the feet. Tagetes is a strong photosensitizer so really shouldn't be used on other parts of the body. My research shows that a blend of Tea tree oil and Tagetes added to a vinegar and water foot bath very effective for athletes foot and for dealing with toenail fungus.

Lavandin (Lavandula hybrid var. Super) is the essential oil that I use to keep the linen closet fresh and sweet smelling.

Of course many essential oils are used in skin care and when you finally get around to

grapefruit, sandalwood, vetiver, mints, basil, german chamomile, atlas cedarwood, rosewood, palma rosa, thyme thymol, cajeput, niaouli, Yarrow Hydrosol.

Petitgrain, lavender, spike lavender, clary, rose geranium is recommended for dry acne.

Rosacea is said to be helped with German chamomile, helichrysum italicuum, rosewood, helichrysum hydrosol.

A good astringent is aided with Grapefruit, yarrow, rosemary, lime distilled essential oils.

When making your own skin cleaner look for recipes that include Sweet Basil, juniper, lemon, lemongrass, niaouli, peppermint.

For making devitalizing creams, the following can be added to your recipe: Eucalyptus globulous, myrtle, neroli, basil juniper, lemon, lemongrass, niaouli, peppermint, pine, orange, oregano, rosemary, spearmint, geranium, grapefruit essential oils.

Dry skin is said to be helped with creams or ointments that contain Carrot seed, cedarwood, clary, jasmine, geranium, lavender, orange, palma rosa, rose, roman chamo, rosewood, neroli, petitgrain, mandarine petitgrain, vetiver, sandalwood, ylangylang, carrot seed, lavender, rose or neroli hydrosol essential oils.

Itching can be helped with oils or creams that contain Jasmine, heli, lavender, peppermint, roman chamo, Lavender or Witch Hazel hydrosol.

These are just to name of few of the skin conditions that may be helped with ointments that have the correct amount of essential oils in them.

Here is a recipe for a sleep aid cure called Ocean Blend

3 parts Sea Buckthorn Berry Extract
3 parts Seaweed Essential Oil
1 part Blue Lotus Absolute.

If you are longing for the ocean...blend yourself just a few drops and experience it. It is one of the most powerful blends we've ever come up with...one drop at a time... that seaweed can really overcome everything

Calming/Relaxing Aromatherapy Blend

Ingredients:

1 ounce carrier oil such as sweet almond

10 drops Roman Chamomile

5 drops Lavender

Directions: Mix the oils well and add to a clean, air-tight dark glass container. Massage gently into the feet of the individual who requires increased calm. Giving yourself a foot massage with this relaxing oil is also delightful. Roman Chamomile has a strong sedative effect, so do not plan to drive or concentrate after using this blend.

If you prefer to make a diffuser blend, make a blend with a ratio of 2 drops Roman Chamomile to 1 drop Lavender and add to your diffuser.

The below blends can help during times of grief. Rose is noted to be especially helpful during times of grief, so you will notice that it is an ingredient in all of the below blends. When selecting and using oils, be sure to follow all safety precautions and remember that aromatherapy should not be used as a substitute for proper medical treatment.

Blend #1

2 drops rose

3 drops sandalwood

Blend #2

2 drops rose

3 drops Cypress

Blend #3

1 drop Neroli

1 drop Rose

3 drops Sandalwood

Blend #4

1 drop Rose

1 drop Helichrysum

1 drop Cypress

2 drops Frankincense

Directions: Select one of the blends shown above. Then, choose which method you'd like to use the blend and follow the directions below:

Diffuser Blend: Multiply your blend by 4 to obtain a total of 20 drops of your chosen blend. Add your oils to a dark colored glass bottle and mix well by rolling the bottle in between your hands. Add the appropriate number of drops from your created blend to your diffuser by following the manufacturer’s instructions.

At Christmas or Thanksgiving time one might want to try this recipe.

Sugar and Spice Blend

The aroma of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger and orange blend to make a sweet, spicy aroma perfect for Thanksgiving and Christmas. The below directions are for creating a diffuser blend, but it is also lovely to use with potpourri. It is also a wonderful blend to use for the scented greeting card and tissue paper recipe.

Ingredients:

10 drops Orange

5 drops Ginger

8 drops Cinnamon

1 drop Nutmeg

Directions: Add your oils to a 2 ml dark colored glass bottle and mix well by rollling the bottle in between your hands. If you would like to make a larger quantity, multiply the recipe above and add to a larger bottle. Add the appropriate number of drops from your created blend to your diffuser by following the manufacturer’s instructions.

Scented greeting card and tissue paper recipe.

Put a few drops of the blend onto a cotton ball. Put up to 15 cards and the cotton ball in a large ziplock bag, close and let it sit for at least 24 hours. Take care not to let the oil come in direct contact with cards or envelopes as the fresh oil could stain them. For boxes of cards, you may also have enough room to just put the cotton ball right in with the box.

For tissue paper, follow the same procedure, but place the cotton ball into the plastic package of tissue paper. Be careful not to let the oil come into contact with the paper.

Close the bag up so the aroma can properly scent the tissue. Refrain from giving a scented card or scented tissue-wrapped gift to anyone who has allergies or sensitivities that may be affected by the oils.

For those of you who like to sew, you can make lavender pillows or other aromatherapy pillows. Or how about aromatherapy filled soft toys for children. (just make sure your child is not allergic to whatever scent you might use). When I feel a headache coming on, I just inhale one of my very small lavender filled sachets. No aspirin for me!