The Unique, aromatic scent of helichrysum oil helps to clear the mind, awaken the senses and promote inner peace and serenity. This wonderful plant is also called everlasting, strawflower and immortelle. Helichrysum is best known as a flower that keeps its shape and color when it is dried and is therefore often included in dried flower arrangements and wreaths. Helichrysum is a hardy evergreen that bears long stems with velvety needles and clusters of ball-shaped white to golden flower heads.
Originally from the Mediterranean region, it was used by the ancient Romans to repel moths and then gained a following for its honeylike fragrance. The flower is often strewn on floors in Europe because of the sweet aroma that is produced when it is crushed under foot. The plant's essential oil is distilled from several species, such as Helichrysum italicum and Helichrysum angustifolium and it has a soothing, pleasant scent.
Essential oil of Helichrysum can help to alleviate skin irritation, aching muscles and joints as well as aid in upper respiratory congetion. On an emotional level, the essential oil assists with creativity and intuition. It blends well with many other oils including cypress, clary sage, juniper, lavender, pin, bergmot, lemon, rosemary, tea tree and geranium.
Since helichrysum oil helps to stimulate the flow of lymph and firms the skin, it can help to relieve varicose veins and edema. Helichrysum has anti-inflammatory and anti-septic properties.
Monday, August 16, 2010
Friday, August 6, 2010
Bathing Away the Blaahs
Few activities are as soothing and as relaxing as taking a warm bath; soaking seems to ease not only sore muscles but emotional tension, as well. If you are suffering from congestion such as with hay fever or colds, bathing can offer the extra advantage of encouraging your body to sweat the toxins out. Adding essential oils can truly turn the experience into a healing bath. Baths give the oils a double route into the body through scent diffused in the steam and through the skin. Warmed by the bath water, the skin is more permeable to the oils, which can then enter the bloodstream in a faster manner, releasing their therapeutic effects. A thyme oil bath, for instance, works to strengthen the weakened resistance of your body; using eucalyptus and rosemary essential oils will loosen the chest and dry up nasal mucus to help relieve the congestion. Baths containing essential oils also provide an added benefit when mixed with a small amount of a carrier oil, such as almond or olive oil. This will help to moisturize, condition and soften your skin.
Remember that oil will float on water so mix even the carrier oil in a small amount of sea or Epsom's salt and then mixing in the bath water will ensure that they don't evaporate or only lie on the top of the water.
A few simple rules to remember about soaking in a bath;
1. Never take a bath on a full stomach; it can irritate the digestive system.
2. Try not to soak for longer than 20 minutes, any longer and the skin becomes over worked and dried out.
Combining a bath with essential oils can both soothe the spirit and heal the body. The medicinal effects of your bath will vary according to the essential oil chosen. The essential oil of tea tree is antiseptic, rosemary is an expectorant, and thyme will strengthen the immune system.
To maximize the effects of the bath, dry-brush your skin with a natural fiber brush before bathing to open up the pores and remove dead skin. Massage your skin with gentle and circular motions while you are in the bath to help bring blood to the surface. In addition, a massage helps to tone the muscles and energize the body.
Remember that oil will float on water so mix even the carrier oil in a small amount of sea or Epsom's salt and then mixing in the bath water will ensure that they don't evaporate or only lie on the top of the water.
A few simple rules to remember about soaking in a bath;
1. Never take a bath on a full stomach; it can irritate the digestive system.
2. Try not to soak for longer than 20 minutes, any longer and the skin becomes over worked and dried out.
Combining a bath with essential oils can both soothe the spirit and heal the body. The medicinal effects of your bath will vary according to the essential oil chosen. The essential oil of tea tree is antiseptic, rosemary is an expectorant, and thyme will strengthen the immune system.
To maximize the effects of the bath, dry-brush your skin with a natural fiber brush before bathing to open up the pores and remove dead skin. Massage your skin with gentle and circular motions while you are in the bath to help bring blood to the surface. In addition, a massage helps to tone the muscles and energize the body.
Friday, July 16, 2010
Summer Days
With the beautiful days of summer blazing down hot upon us, people are always looking for great ways to sooth the burn, cool down the skin but at the same time moisturize and feed it.
A quiet essential oil that doesn't get much recognition is Ylang-ylang oil. This beautiful oil is native to the Philippines and comes from a tree that can reach heights of over 60 feet. The blossoms from the Ylang-ylang tree are harvested before sunrise to retain the highest amounts of oil and then are extracted through steam distillation. The exotic smelling oil is valuable for softening the skin and helping to balance natural production of moisture.
A wonderful recipe for easing the pain of sunburned skin, while supporting the formation of new skin tissue is as follows: add 7 drops of Ylang-ylang oil, to 5 drops of English Lavender oil, and 3 drops of Frankincense oil, and 1 drop of Peppermint oil to 3 Tablespoons of raw apple cider vinegar in 1 quart of cool water. Soak a clean cloth in the solution and apply to the affected areas by gently blotting.
Ylang-ylang has many other uses such as headaches, high blood pressure, anger, fear and mild depression.
NOTE: try to make sure your Ylang-ylang oil is hexane or solvent free other wise you might find the smell mildly nauseating or causing mild headache reactions.
A quiet essential oil that doesn't get much recognition is Ylang-ylang oil. This beautiful oil is native to the Philippines and comes from a tree that can reach heights of over 60 feet. The blossoms from the Ylang-ylang tree are harvested before sunrise to retain the highest amounts of oil and then are extracted through steam distillation. The exotic smelling oil is valuable for softening the skin and helping to balance natural production of moisture.
A wonderful recipe for easing the pain of sunburned skin, while supporting the formation of new skin tissue is as follows: add 7 drops of Ylang-ylang oil, to 5 drops of English Lavender oil, and 3 drops of Frankincense oil, and 1 drop of Peppermint oil to 3 Tablespoons of raw apple cider vinegar in 1 quart of cool water. Soak a clean cloth in the solution and apply to the affected areas by gently blotting.
Ylang-ylang has many other uses such as headaches, high blood pressure, anger, fear and mild depression.
NOTE: try to make sure your Ylang-ylang oil is hexane or solvent free other wise you might find the smell mildly nauseating or causing mild headache reactions.
Thursday, July 8, 2010
Natural Aftershave
Did you realize that the principles of aromatherapy are practiced whenever cologne, aftershave or any other scented product is used, whether it is to add a pleasant fragrance, to mask odors, or create an astringent action on the skin but instead of using chemical reproductions or synthetics why not use natural products that feed and nourish the mind as well?
Throughout history men have used essential oils to treat wounds and restore their mind and spirits. Anciently the Egyptian priests would also use essential oils for embalming and Greek soldiers would carry different compounds into battle to help treat wounds.
A common, everyday use for essential oils would be in treating irritated skin after shaving. Shaving irritation can result in a painful, burning sensation on the cheeks and around the mought, but aftershave made from natural ingredients can soothe the skin.
Blend 10 drops each of lavender and sandalwood into 3 ounces of jojoba or grapeseed oil and then add 3 to 4 drops of lemongrass. Shake the mixture well and then gently pat it onto your face after shaving. If you prefer an antiseptic type aftershave, add 3 to 4 drops of tea tree oil and 1 ounce of witch hazel. Shake well and apply as needed.
Hair loss is an issue that concerns many men. Sandalwood, Cedarwood, basil, sypress and rosemary oils can help stimulate hair growth. Mix 10 drops each of any two of these essential oils listed and mix with 4 ounces grapeseed oil, apricot oil, almond oil or jojoba oil and massage a few drops of the mixture into your scalp twice each day. NOTE: if you choose to use basil oil only use 5 drops!
Throughout history men have used essential oils to treat wounds and restore their mind and spirits. Anciently the Egyptian priests would also use essential oils for embalming and Greek soldiers would carry different compounds into battle to help treat wounds.
A common, everyday use for essential oils would be in treating irritated skin after shaving. Shaving irritation can result in a painful, burning sensation on the cheeks and around the mought, but aftershave made from natural ingredients can soothe the skin.
Blend 10 drops each of lavender and sandalwood into 3 ounces of jojoba or grapeseed oil and then add 3 to 4 drops of lemongrass. Shake the mixture well and then gently pat it onto your face after shaving. If you prefer an antiseptic type aftershave, add 3 to 4 drops of tea tree oil and 1 ounce of witch hazel. Shake well and apply as needed.
Hair loss is an issue that concerns many men. Sandalwood, Cedarwood, basil, sypress and rosemary oils can help stimulate hair growth. Mix 10 drops each of any two of these essential oils listed and mix with 4 ounces grapeseed oil, apricot oil, almond oil or jojoba oil and massage a few drops of the mixture into your scalp twice each day. NOTE: if you choose to use basil oil only use 5 drops!
Monday, June 28, 2010
Often Over Looked
Everyone seems to know that Mandarin is a member of the orange family and originated in China, however Essential oil of Mandarin is often over looked as an important oil to use for mental strain, mental exhaustion and stress, especially in the work place. A really great advantage to this wonderful oil is that it can safely be used during all stages of Pregnancy. Pressed from the peels, Essential oil of Mandarin emits a flowery, sweet aroma which seems to be especially popular with children.
Some women who suffer from PMS have found that Essential Oil of Mandarin eases their distress prior to and during menstruation. This is also a beneficial oil to use in the prevention of stretch marks, combine 50 drops of Essential Oil of Mandarin with one half cup of your favorite massage oil such as almond, coconut or even extra virgin olive oil and gently massage into the breasts and abdomen every evening before retiring.
You can lighten the sober, sterile atmosphere of a hospital with a few drops of mandarin oil in a spritzer or spray bottle, help to chase away the septic odor common in hospital rooms. Essential oil of Mandarin can also help lift the feelings of anxiety and nervousness as well as the the tension of contracting muscles.
Remember that Essential oil of Mandarin is slightly yellow and can leave a residue on materials. If you apply Essential oil of Mandarin to the skin, be sure to avoid any direct exposure to the sun for a minimum of 6 hours after application because skin that has been treated with Essential oil of Mandarin can develop stubborn brown spots when exposed to the rays of the sun of tanning beds.
Some women who suffer from PMS have found that Essential Oil of Mandarin eases their distress prior to and during menstruation. This is also a beneficial oil to use in the prevention of stretch marks, combine 50 drops of Essential Oil of Mandarin with one half cup of your favorite massage oil such as almond, coconut or even extra virgin olive oil and gently massage into the breasts and abdomen every evening before retiring.
You can lighten the sober, sterile atmosphere of a hospital with a few drops of mandarin oil in a spritzer or spray bottle, help to chase away the septic odor common in hospital rooms. Essential oil of Mandarin can also help lift the feelings of anxiety and nervousness as well as the the tension of contracting muscles.
Remember that Essential oil of Mandarin is slightly yellow and can leave a residue on materials. If you apply Essential oil of Mandarin to the skin, be sure to avoid any direct exposure to the sun for a minimum of 6 hours after application because skin that has been treated with Essential oil of Mandarin can develop stubborn brown spots when exposed to the rays of the sun of tanning beds.
Tuesday, May 25, 2010
Essential Oil of Bergamot
Many people wonder what Bergamot Oil is and where it comes from. We most likely have Columbus to thank for transporting the Bergamot tree from it native home in the Canary Islands to Italy. The fruit of the Bergamot tree is inedible and is very bitter, however the essential oil which is pale emerald green in color and has a slightly sweet, almost lemon/orange scent is very useful in aromatherapy.
Bergamot Oil is most commonly known for it's culinary use in Earl Grey teas giving it a wonderful flavor and delightful aroma.
Bergamot Oil has strong antiseptic and antibacterial properties and can help treat such things as urinary tract infections. This wonderful oil is restorative and can help you combat fatigue due to stress or illness. When it is combined with essential oil of lime is can help to counter depression. Bergamot has also been very effective in the treatment of acne and many insect bites, as well as helping to clear up cold sores. Bergamot Oil can help ease the discomfort of chicken pox especially when combined with the drying power of eucalyptus oil.
TAKE CARE HOWEVER!!!
Like many citrus based essential oils, Bergamot oil is considered to be photo toxic. When you use regular Bergamot Oil, or any citrus based oil, for that matter, avoid exposing your skin to direct sunlight for at least 4 to 6 hours following the application; exposure to the sun may lead to skin discoloration, blistering or even severe burning.
If you are concerned about any particular essential oil and any reaction you might have to it, always do a patch test. Simply apply 1 to 2 drops of the oil in question to the inside of your wrist of the forearm and then check the spot for any redness or irritation after an hour or two has gone by.
Bergamot Oil is most commonly known for it's culinary use in Earl Grey teas giving it a wonderful flavor and delightful aroma.
Bergamot Oil has strong antiseptic and antibacterial properties and can help treat such things as urinary tract infections. This wonderful oil is restorative and can help you combat fatigue due to stress or illness. When it is combined with essential oil of lime is can help to counter depression. Bergamot has also been very effective in the treatment of acne and many insect bites, as well as helping to clear up cold sores. Bergamot Oil can help ease the discomfort of chicken pox especially when combined with the drying power of eucalyptus oil.
TAKE CARE HOWEVER!!!
Like many citrus based essential oils, Bergamot oil is considered to be photo toxic. When you use regular Bergamot Oil, or any citrus based oil, for that matter, avoid exposing your skin to direct sunlight for at least 4 to 6 hours following the application; exposure to the sun may lead to skin discoloration, blistering or even severe burning.
If you are concerned about any particular essential oil and any reaction you might have to it, always do a patch test. Simply apply 1 to 2 drops of the oil in question to the inside of your wrist of the forearm and then check the spot for any redness or irritation after an hour or two has gone by.
Saturday, May 8, 2010
Create A Yummy Complexion & Soft Hands
Sometimes the simplest ingredients from your kitchen can be used to make the nicest feeling, younger looking skin. For instance, the following ingredients can be used to create a great facial treatment that will leave your skin smooth and soft. Mix thoroughly 1/2 cup of baking cocoa powder with 3 Tablespoons of heavy whipping cream, 1/4 cup of raw honey, 8 drops of essential oil of English Lavender and 2 tablespoons old fashion rolled oats that have been finely crushed. Gently rinse face with warm, not hot, water and then apply mixture evenly to face. Lie back and relax for 10 to 15 minutes and then gently wash off with warm water and soft cloth.
Next concentrate on your hands; mix 1/2 cup of raw, granulated sugar with 1/4 of sea salt, 5-6 drops of English Lavender and 1 tablespoon of good, extra virgin olive oil. Cover hands with mixture and gently massage into each hand making sure to involve the wrists. Let stand on hands for 5-6 minutes and then rinse off under warm, running water. This will help to soften and deep clean the skin and nails.
What a fun activity for a girls night in!
Next concentrate on your hands; mix 1/2 cup of raw, granulated sugar with 1/4 of sea salt, 5-6 drops of English Lavender and 1 tablespoon of good, extra virgin olive oil. Cover hands with mixture and gently massage into each hand making sure to involve the wrists. Let stand on hands for 5-6 minutes and then rinse off under warm, running water. This will help to soften and deep clean the skin and nails.
What a fun activity for a girls night in!
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