Helichrysum Essential Oil Nature’s Healing Wonder

The essential oil of Helichrysum is relatively unknown in the United States, though interest in this natural healing phenomenon is growing, and with very good reason. Helichrysum is one of the most potent, dramatically healing essential oils used in medical aromatherapy today.

The precious essential oil of Helichrysum is relatively unknown in the United States, even in natural health and wellness circles. Interest and experience with this natural healing phenomenon is growing rapidly, however – and with very good reason. Helichrysum is one of the most potent, dramatically healing essential oils used in European medical aromatherapy today. As noted by Dr. Kurt Schnaubelt, America’s leading medical aromatherapist, the effects of this oil are "so convincing that it has never met with any kind of criticism." An essential oil so useful, even those who consider aromatherapy a pseudo-science do not challenge its wonderful effects! So what is Helichrysum oil, and how can it benefit the newcomer to aromatherapy?

There are over five hundred species of the Helichrysum plant; many share the same characteristics of narrow pale green leaves and bright yellow flowers. It is only the Helichrysum ‘italicum’ species that produces the highly regarded ‘Everlasting’ or ‘Immortelle’ oil for aromatherapy. There is even a sub-species of this called ’serotinum’ which is a little more rare – if seeking out the oil, check the Latin name, and be sure it is 100% pure (unless, of course, you’re seeking a particular therapeutic recipe or dilution – even then, the aromatherapy literature states that purity of the original source material is of utmost importance to ensure efficacy).

The Helichrysum flower is native to the Mediterranean, where much of the finest oil is distilled. Because of the growing popularity of the oil, outstanding varieties are now being produced in the United States, with laboratory test results showing exceptionally high concentrations of the principal active constituents – as high or higher than even the fine European varieties. These domestically produced oils are a great bargain compared to the imported oils, with their high therapeutic efficacy and lower costs. Whichever source you choose, be sure it is pure Helichrysum italicum essential oil you use for therapeutic purposes.

So what’s so wonderful about this essential oil from the little golden French flower? Its natural combination of chemical constituents creates one of the most profoundly healing essential oils available. It has the actions of being a strong anti-inflammatory, an analgesic, a tension reliever, and a potent tissue regenerator. It is the only essential oil known to contain a certain class of molecule called di-ketones, well known for their unique regenerative effects. The oil is considered a panacea by some in cases of wounds of all kinds, where it is called for immediately – applied undiluted to the affected area until further medical care is available. This same synergy of action can be effective for a broad array of physical conditions.

As Dr. Schnaubelt notes in Medical Aromatherapy: "The pain-reducing, analgesic, and regenerative effect is unique…(the oil) works for all conditions in which inflamed tissue needs to be calmed down and regenerated." Its most common use is for healing skin, muscle and connective tissue. Helichrysum may be applied directly to cuts and scrapes, perhaps with a small amount of Tea Tree oil for additional antibacterial action. It has been recommended for surgical wounds, applied beginning seven days after a procedure. Continued application may significantly reduce scar formation, and can even treat old scars of various origins (we’ll get to the recipes for this shortly!)

It is an excellent remedy to have available when sports and fitness enthusiasts young and old are at play. Helichrysum is used ‘neat’ (undiluted) on injuries such as bruises and twists that have just occurred to prevent further damage from swelling and hematoma. If applied immediately, a bruise may not even appear; if application is delayed, the oil will still speed healing. Tendonitis may be addressed with a blend of 1% Helichrysum, 1% Lemon Eucalyptus and 1% Yarrow oils in a base of Comfrey cream applied regularly to the area.

Helichrysum is included in many therapeutic blends for the skin. It is considered anti-inflammatory, tissue regenerating and a cicatrisant (scar reducing). To treat scars, old and new, use 25 drops Helichrysum, 25 drops Rosemary Verbenone and 75 drops Calophyllum (Tamanu) in each ounce of Hazelnut oil. Apply regularly to the scar; this formula is even used for smoothing of old keloid scars over a period of six months. For additional support, add 75 drops of Rosehip seed oil to the blend. Helichrysum is used in blends to reduce stretch marks after pregnancy: Use a 3% dilution of Helichrysum oil in Hazelnut with 20% Rosehip seed as the base and apply regularly. During pregnancy, a low dilution blend (1% total essential oils) of Neroli and Cypress in Hazelnut oil is recommended to prevent the marks from occurring. Hemorrhoids may be relieved with 1% Helichrysum and 1% German Chamomile in Sesame oil. Allergic skin reactions and eczema may be calmed with 1% each Helichrysum and Blue Tansy essential oils in Hazelnut oil.

Briefly, Helichrysum italicum is also used for neuralgia – with its regenerative and analgesic actions: Use the oil diluted as a massage formula for painful or tingling areas. . It may offer support for other physical conditions such as fibromyalgia and arthritis in a similar blend, with other warming oils added for improved circulation (small amounts of Black Pepper and Ginger essential oils are often used). The oil may help tinnitus symptoms: place one drop on a cotton ball in the ear each night for one to two weeks. Helichrysum acts as an anti-coagulant, and is supportive of the veins and in cases where vein degeneration has lead to clot formation. It can offer support in cases of coughs, colds and asthma; It is further used for headaches, nervous tension, and exhaustion from stress. Consult a knowledgeable practitioner for advice on Helichrysum’s use as part of your health and wellness program.

On the more esoteric side, where aromatherapy also affects the psyche and emotions, according to Mojay’s ‘Aromatherapy for Healing the Spirit’: "Those (emotions) that are most indicated…are enduring resentment, half-conscious anger, bitterness of spirit, and a stubbornly negative attitude." For many, there can be a direct link between these hardened emotions and physical manifestation of illness. Aromatherapy massage with Helichrysum may be extremely beneficial, as one receives the oil’s aroma, its biological effects, and the healing touch of massage. Here, the oil may be used in a 1-3% dilution, alone or with other oils tailored to the person’s needs.

As you can see, Helichrysum offers its potent healing medicine to many folks interested in natural healing, wellness and fitness. It is an exceptionally safe oil, and can be used by health professionals without hesitation. True Helichrysum italicum may appear expensive relative to other oils, but it is often used in small amounts and low dilutions; a little will go a long way – and will be a much appreciated addition to your natural home medicine chest.

Tarah Cech
Published: 2/9/2008

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Ways to Incorporate Essential Oils into Home & Daily Use

There are many ways in which essential oils can be used in daily grooming, which has the added benefit of the therapeutic properties of the essential oils. I will outline some of the easiest and most effective techniques, but I urge you to be creative and fill your home with essential oils.

There are numerous ways in which essential oils can be used. I will outline some of the easiest and most effective techniques, but I urge you to be creative and fill your home with essential oils.

BATHS

Essential oils are simple to use in the bath. Just fill the bath and scatter about six drops of your chosen undiluted oil into the water, agitating it thoroughly. Do not add the essential oil until you have run the bath completely, otherwise the oil will evaporate with the heat of the water and the therapeutic properties will be lost before you climb in! Always disperse the oil – if you inadvertently sit down on neat essential oil of, say, tangerine you will jump up again very quickly! Shut the door to keep the precious aromas in and stay in the bath for at least fifteen minutes to allow the oil to penetrate deeply into your body tissues.

If you desire, you may blend your six drops of essential oil with a teaspoon of carrier oil. This is particularly beneficial for those with dry skin, although carrier oils can leave a greasy ring around the bath. However, special, unscented bath oils, which contain natural dispersing agents, can be purchased. These leave the skin feeling soft but not greasy. Choose any vegetable oil such as sweet almond, wheatgerm, avocado or jojoba. You could mix up enough oil for several baths. Your skin will feel soft, nourished and supple.

HYDROTHERAPY BATHS AND JACUZZIS

Nowadays some people have their own Jacuzzi or hydrotherapy bath. USe the same number of drops as you would in a normal bath, although if it is a large hydrotherapy bath designed for two or three persons then ten drops may be added. Sprinkle in your essential oils after the bath has been filled.

FOOTBATHS AND HANDBATHS

Footbaths and handbaths are highly beneficial in situations where it is impractical to enjoy a full aromatherapy bath perhaps if you are elderly or have a disability. Footbaths, in particular, are incredibly relaxing at the end of a long, hard day. They are excellent for foot conditions such as athlete’s foot and pain and swelling in the feet. Handbaths help to relieve the pain, stiffness and swelling of arthritis.

Add six drops of essential oil to a bowl of hand-hot water just before you immerse your feet or hands and soak for about ten to fifteen minutes.

SITZ BATHS AND BIDETS

A sitz bath is invaluable in cases of cystitis, haemorrhoids, vaginal discharge, stitches after childbirth, and so on. Sprinkle about four to six drops of pure essential oil into a bowl of hand-hot water and sit in the bowl for about ten minutes. If you are fortunate enough to have a bidet then use the same number of drops. Ensure that the essential oil and water are thoroughly mixed.

COMPRESSES

Compresses can be used for a variety of disorders such as muscular aches and pains, bruises, rheumatic and arthritic pain, headaches and sprains.

You may apply compresses either hot or cold. Alternate hot and cold compresses are invaluable for treating sprains. As a general rule, where there is a fever, acute pain or hot swellings use a cold compress. When treating chronic (long-term) pain use a hot compress.

To make a compress, mix approximately six drops of essential oil into a small bowl of water. Soak any piece of absorbent material such as a flannel, piece of sheeting or towelling in the solution ensuring that as much essential oil as possible is absorbed by your fabric. Squeeze out the compress so it does not drip everywhere and apply to the affected area. Wrap cling film around it or secure with a bandage. Leave for about two hours or even overnight. Where there is a fever replace with a new compress when necessary.

GARGLES AND MOUTHWASHES

Gargles are particularly beneficial for sore throats, respiratory problems and loss of voice. After dental surgery gargling can help to relieve pains and inflammation, reduce blood flow and speed up the healing process. Gargle twice daily, although if the problem is acute then you can gargle every two hours.

Put two drops of essential oil into half a glass of water. Stir well, gargle and spit it out. Do not swallow. Stir again and repeat. Antiseptic oils such as tea tree, sage, lemon and thyme are excellent for treating sore throats. Roman chamomile, geranium and sandalwood will also soothe inflammation. Myrrh and tea tree combined are invaluable for treating mouth ulcers.

INHALATIONS

Inhalation of essential oils works upon the body, mind and spirit.

On a physical level there is a strong action on the mucous membranes of the nose, the lungs and the respiratory system in general. Conditions such as asthma, bronchitis, catarrh, coughs, colds, sinusitis and sore throats can all benefit enormously.

The inhalation of essential oils has a profound effect on the nervous system helping to relieve insomnia, anxiety and stress-related disorders, and lifting depression and negativity.

STEAM INHALATION

Add two to four drops of essential oil to a bowl of hot water. Cover your head with a towel and lean over the bowl inhaling deeply for one to five minutes. Keep your eyes closed to avoid irritation. If an asthmatic uses this method then just one drop is adequate. Take care with the hot water if there are small children around.

HANDKERCHIEF/TISSUE

Sprinkle a few drops of essential oil on to a handkerchief, paper towel or tissue and take a few deep breaths. This method is particularly effective for relieving nasal congestion and also for stopping panic attacks. Place the handkerchief in your pocket and you can continue to inhale the aroma throughout the day.

ROOM SPRAY

A room spray is a excellent way of purifying the atmosphere. Add 250 ml of water to a plant spray and add 15-20 drops of essential oil. Shake the bottle well and spray the room. You can even spray carpets and curtains. Do not spray on to polished surfaces.

Sprays can also be used to relieve irritation and pain as in chicken-pox, shingles, burns and any infectious skin diseases.

VAPORISERS AND DIFFUSERS

Electric vaporisers are sometimes used in clinics and hospital settings since they are considered to be safe. Electric diffusers, which do not use heat, are also becoming popular. However, both vaporisers and diffusers particularly can be rather expensive.

Therefore, for home use, I recommend a clay vaporiser heated by a night light. These are readily available. Put a few teaspoons of water into the loose bowl on top and sprinkle two to six drops of essential oil into it. Light the night light and the oil will diffuse into the air.

PILLOW AND NIGHTWEAR METHOD

Place a few drops of essential oil on to a pillow or your nightwear for relief from insomnia and to encourage easier and deeper breathing. If desired, you could put the drops on to a piece of cotton wool and place it inside the pillow case.

LIGHT BULB RING

Two drops of essential oil can be sprinkled on to a ceramic or metal ring which fits on to a light bulb. Only apply your oils when the lamp is off and the ring is cool ensuring that you do not get any oil on the light bulb itself or on the fitting, as essential oils are inflammable.

RADIATOR FRAGRANCER

Two to six drops of essential oil can be placed into a ceramic container which fits on to a radiator by means of a magnet.

Alternatively, moisten a cotton-wool ball slightly with water, sprinkle the drops of essential oil on to the ball and place it on t he radiator, or even lodge it by the pipe to avoid staining the paint surface. The heat from the radiator will evaporate the essential oil into the room.

OPEN FIRE

Put one drop of essential oil on each log before lighting the fire. As the logs heat up, the aroma will be released into the room. Cypress, sandalwood and cedarwood are particularly effective.

MASSAGE

Massage even without essential oils is a powerful therapy. The combination of pure essential oils and massage is even more potent. Massage is one of the most effective and beneficial treatment techniques. Essential oil constituents pass through the skin and they are taken into the bloodstream and can be carried to all the cells of the body.

Essential oils are not usually applied in an undiluted form to the skin except for emergencies such as burns, cuts or a sting. They must be blended with a suitable carrier oil in the appropriate dilution. When blending essential oil with a base oil, the essential oil content is usually between 1 per cent and 3 per cent. A massage takes between 10 ml and 20 ml of oil. Since a teaspoon holds approximately 5 ml, a treatment will require only two to four teaspoons of base oil. The following guidelines should help you:

– 3 drops of essential oil to 10 ml of carrier oil

– 4-5 drops of essential oil to 15 ml of carrier oil

– 6 drops of essential oil to 20 ml of carrier oil

– 15 drops of essential oil to 50 ml of carrier oil

– 30 drops of essential oil to 100 ml of carrier oil

Remember that if you are mixing up a large quantity (e.g. 100 ml) for daily use, then ensure that you add a teaspoon of wheatgerm oil to prolong the life of your blend.

CANDLES

Add one to two drops of essential oil to the warm wax of a candle, taking care to avoid the wick since essential oils are flammable.

OINTMENTS AND CREAMS

Sometimes you may prefer to apply a cream to a particular area of the body rather than an oil. It is possible to create some wonderful moisturizers for the face, and they make lovely presents. You can also blend your own hand creams and foot creams to alleviate cracked and chapped skin, redness and irritation, infections, chilblains, and so forth. Some aromatherapy suppliers produce a cream without essential oils to which you can add your own. Ensure that it is non-mineral based, organic and lanolin-free for optimum results.

Bergamot Essential Oil
Bergamot essential oil uses, principal properties, effects and special precautions.

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Natural Healing Powers

The once distinct boundaries of Eastern and Western medicine have become more and more infused as combinations of their various modalities take form. Having studied both conventional medicine and a combination of both Eastern and Western medicine, I have discovered where my preferences lie.

Practicing two very different forms of treatment massage, Traditional Chinese Massage and Physical Therapy plus Oriental Aromatherapy Massage and Bodywork, has been a satisfying and most rewarding occupation. Having studied both conventional medicine and a combination of both Eastern and Western medicine, I have found that my preference lies in the latter. This is not because I am anti conventional medicine but because I have experienced the "vis medicatrix naturae" (the healing force of nature) as being much more effective.

Activating, releasing and unmasking the body’s own natural healing power is far more clinically efficacious. This system of both prevention and healing through Traditional Chinese Massage techniques (no oil required) treats every clinical situation as fundamentally a stress problem and has the deliberate intention of realigning and reintegrating the body’s own natural healing resources in a unique and powerful way. By approaching each person as an individual with unique requirements, a specific massage can be customized and powerfully effective through acupressure, soft tissue mobilization as well as gentle holistic techniques for acute or chronic ailments such as frozen shoulder, wry neck, and even sprained ankles.

Each massage is approached with a global mind-set based on an understanding of the interactive relationships between different parts of the body and the way in which they each contribute to the whole being’s response to the demands placed upon it. Having this approach facilitates two entirely different therapeutic strategies – firstly, reducing the stress load on the patient’s body by removing harmful environmental stimuli and/or strengthening the body against future encroachment, secondly, increasing the resources of the patient – by making the whole body and its functions and processes more physiologically efficient.

In comparison the approach of Oriental Aromatherapy is such that essential oils are chosen from an energetic perspective rather than choosing them according to different ailments. The essential oils are blended in a cold pressed carrier oil such as sweet almond or a blend of nourishing oils. When oils are chosen according to the imbalance of the five elements – fire, earth, water, metal and wood the combined oils are indicated for physical, emotional, mental and spiritual imbalance. Each essential oil has a yin or yang quality such as cooling or warming energy, drying for dampness; stimulating, cleansing energy for congestion or a gentle moving action for stuck energy.

Once again understanding the interactive relationships between different parts of the whole being and having determined this through a variety of diagnostic techniques the essential oils are chosen and blended accordingly. From this approach the style of Aromatherapy massage is then perfected including gentle acupressure, soft tissue mobilization, rocking and subtle cranial therapy. The outcome of generating a synergistically woven massage style is the inner harmony that allows natural healing to occur!

In the 18 years that I have been practicing, many sceptics have been converted and nine out of ten people continue to fall asleep by the end of a massage; much to their surprise. Not only do they feel more relaxed and in tune but they have an inner calmness beyond words.

By Angela Power Published: 10/22/2007

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Aromachology and Aromatherapy – Do you know the difference?

Aromachology and Aromatherapy both promote the positive effects of fragrance on mood and emotion but that may be where the similarity ends. References in commercial writing often blur their distinctions leaving many readers confused. Read on and learn the difference.

What is Aromachology?

Aromachology is the scientific study of the effects of fragrance on human psychology and behavior. This term was coined in 1989 by what is now the Sense of Smell Institute, a division of The Fragrance Foundation, which in turn is the non-profit, educational arm of the international fragrance industry. Aromachology emphasizes controlled scientific study, deals only with the psychological effects of fragrance and considers both natural and synthetic odorants. Aromachology is driven by corporate sponsorship and ultimately endeavors to identify fragrance applications that have commercial opportunity.

What is Aromatherapy?

Aromatherapy is the therapeutic use of plant essential oils to improve physical health as well as psychological health. The term was first used in 1928 by French chemist Rene Maurice Gattefosse to describe the healing action of aromatic plant essences but the use of herbs and plant oils dates back to antiquity. The practice of Aromatherapy remains an integral part of folk medicine. The pharmacology of essential oils is seldom studied scientifically as there is no commercial incentive to do so. Aromatherapy uses only pure, natural essential oils, each with specific attributes for healing, and how they smell is secondary to their therapeutic action.

How are they different?

The two disciplines appear to overlap where aromatherapy uses inhalation of diffused oils to treat conditions related to mood and emotion, such as anxiety, depression, lethargy, or irritability. But even in this circumstance, there is an important distinction.

Aromatherapy does not endorse the use of artificial fragrances which have no therapeutic value and can not affect mood beyond the psychological effects of "odor memory". On the other hand, researchers in Aromachology will point out that the special virtues of essential oils are not supported by a substantial body of clinical evidence. But is there really a conflict?

The effect of fragrance on emotion

The fact that our emotions are affected by fragrance is widely accepted. Memory and emotion are often strongly associated with odor. We have all experienced it. A whiff of a particular odor and our minds are suddenly flooded with a memory and the emotions associated with that memory. There is an anatomical basis for this phenomenon. Within the human brain the primary olfactory cortex, which processes information about odors, is directly connected to the amygdala, which controls the expression and experience of emotion, and the hippocampus, which controls the consolidation of memories. These are primitive functions that have been around since the time in early evolution when we needed to use our sense of smell for survival. Controlled studies would suggest that our appreciation of an odor and our emotional response to it, are determined by the emotional context in which the odor was first encountered, even if the association is subtle and we are not consciously aware of it. This is why our appreciation of odors is such a personal matter and why there are significant differences in odor preference from one culture to the next.

Both natural and synthetic odorants can trigger a psychological response which is at the heart of Aromachology but only the appropriate essential oil will cause a specific physiological response which is the healing goal of Aromatherapy.

Are the claims of Aromatherapy unproven?

It is true that there is little scientific research into the pharmacology of essential oils. Lack of funding is the primary reason. Essential oils are not patentable and so with a few exceptions there is no commercial incentive for conducting research. On the other hand, thanks to Aromachology controlled studies have validated some of the historical claims for essential oils. For example, it has been proven that Rosemary enhances cognitive performance, Peppermint is invigorating and Lavender is relaxing. The practice of Aromatherapy has withstood the test of time. Within western cultures its popularity as a complementary medicine continues to grow.

In reality there is no conflict between Aromachology and Aromatherapy because they have different agendas and neither invalidates the other. In the end, Aromachology may prove to be of great benefit to Aromatherapy by adding the weight of modern research to the large body of common knowledge that has supported it for hundreds of years.

Marilyn Flook manages the Forever Fragrant website which promotes aromatherapy and natural products. Learn more about essential oils and their practical uses.

By Marilyn Flook Published: 4/7/2008

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Aromatherapy Benefits

Aromatherapy is useful in a number of areas like physical and mental pains and several diseases.

Stress
The patients who were exposed to the smell of vanilla felt less claustrophobic. However, their heart rate did not get modified. It was evident that the aroma of vanilla evoked some pleasant memories or created some physiological response due to which the anxiety was reduced. Some patients who are admitted in the intensive care unit, felt much better when given massage using the oil of lavender. It has been noticed that keypunch operators when given fragrance made less mistakes.

Postpartum discomfort
Those women who applied lavender oil to the perineal area after child birth had a gross improvement after the third and before the fifth day.

Colds
The aroma of chicken soup is good for cold.

Male sexual response
The use of licorice or lavender with pumpkin pie increases the circulation of the male sexual organ. Doughnut using black licorice is very effective. Those men who are very active sexually react well to lavender, oriental spice or cola. Vanilla is preferred by older men. It has been proved that male impotence from the blood vessel disease or psychogenic factors can be effectively treated using aromatherapy.

Sleep
It is found that if lavender aroma was spread in the bedrooms, elderly patients, who have difficulty to sleep and have to take sleeping pills, can sleep literally like babies without the pills.

Behavior
Mice are hyperexcited if they consume large quantity of caffeine. If the aroma of sandalwood, lavender or other oils are sprayed in their cages, they would calm down. If these mice were exposed to the aroma of orange terpines or thymol, they would become very irritable.

Other aromatherapy benefits

• It reduces muscular aches and pains and increases muscle relaxation and tone.
• For women’s problems like PMS or menopausal distress it is particularly helpful.
• Stress level or Blood pressure can be reduced.
• The immune system can be stimulated and infections can be fought with.
• Tension headaches can be relieved.
• Various emotions like anxiety, grief and depression can be alleviated.
• Digestion can be improved. Constipation and abdominal spasm can be decreased.
• The respiratory system is useful for tonsillitis, coughs and sinusitis.
• The circulation and lymphatic drainage can be enhanced to eliminate cellulite and toxins from the body.
• Some essential oils are good skin care agents.
• The circulation of the scalp can be increased and dandruff can be prevented.
• Aromas can be used as a first aid measure for minor burns and cuts.
• Common problems like sore throat, stuffy or blocked noses can also be modified.
• Lavender Essential oil is a good relief to dry and inflamed skin.
• Tree Tree Essential Oil is good to use for warts, rashes, insect bites, cuts and coughs.
• The immune system is boosted.
• The discomforts of asthma, arthritis and allergies can be relieved.
• Toxins can be eliminated.
• The mind and body can be soothed so that stress is relieved and muscles can be relaxed.
• Nausea can be treated using aromas.
• The essential oils lavender, marjoram and Roman chamomile help in relaxation and anxiety in palliative care.
• Irritable bowel syndrome can be assisted with the help of an oral intake of peppermint oil.
• The essential oils of Ylang ylang and Rosemary affect Alpha-wave activity.
• Linalool is a terpenoid constituent that interacts with cell membranes and suppresses cell action. It is midly sedative in nature.
• The pulmonary function of children with asthma can be improved with a 20 minute massage routine each day.
• The treatment of acne, athletes foot and onychomycosis nail infections can be done by Tea Tree oil.
• Aromas can be used to facilitate communication, decrease difficult and self-stimulating behavior and provide very meaningful communication.
• Aromatic massage reduces cortisone levels in children having juvenile rheumatoid arthritis.

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Aromatherapy Gift Baskets

Aromatherapy or scent-based remedy for certain ailments is an authentic science that has a long association with royalty and the crme de la crme of society. The use of essential oils in the treatment, makes it unique.

Aromatherapy is an alternative medicine application that involves the use of volatile liquid plant material. The extracted essence or essential oils and other strong scented compounds from plants are used as mood and health enhancers and pain relievers. The chemical compositions of the essential oils usually recommended in aromatherapy differ from the herbal products also widely sold all over the world. The difference is due to the exclusive distillation process used in aromatherapy, which retains or extracts only the lighter phyto-molecules present in the base material. Aromatherapy essential oils are potent with sesquiterpenes, esters, monoterpenes, hydrocarbons and organic sulfides.

You can prepare a great aromatherapy gift basket for someone you love and enjoy indulging in – your mother, wife, hsuband, son, daughter, grandparent or even yourself. Yes, why not! When buying Christmas or Easter gifts for the family, put yourself on the budget too and indulge. You need to know what goes into effective aromatherapy, to put together a great gift basket. When conducting research and marketing for the aromatherapy products, it is essential to know that aromatherapy is a generic term applied commonly to traditions that use essential oils, either alone or in combination, with alternative medical practices. The therapy is also associated with spiritual beliefs. Not all medical treatment involving the use of such scents are included in the term ‘aromatherapy’.

Your aromatherapy gift basket should include one or many fragrant oils, like eucalyptus or grapefruit oil. These oils are also referred to as solvent extractions. There are ‘absolutes’ that are essence oils extracted from flowers and delicate plant tissues. Absolutes also include the essences of fragrant butters and enfleurage pommades. There are ‘phytoncides’ or voltile organic compounds that kill microbes. Among the variety of phytoncides available, ‘allium’ are not desirable due to their disagreeable odors. Then, you could include hydrosols, the aqueous by products. They also have culinary uses and are great skin care options. The common hydrosols are rose, chamomile and lemon.

Your aromatherapy gift basket could also include infusions or aqueous extracts of plants and carrier oils that are used to dilute essential oils for use on sensitive skin. You could make your gift basket special by including basil for sharpening concentration, getting rid of depression and migraines. However, if you are gifting the basket to someone pregnant, then you should leave out the basil oil because of the emmenagogue chemotypes present in it. Bergamot is a great oil to include and is very popular too. It makes an excellent insect repellent and the recipient of the gift basket will definitely bless you. The sharp and spicy aroma of black pepper should be included ina basket for your grandparents. It stimulates blood circulation and eases muscular aches and pains.

You can also consider geranium oil, which is an astringent, antiseptic and a diuretic. If you are gifting the absket to your spouse, you could get a little bold and include extract of jasmine, rose, sandalwood or ylang-ylang, which are used as aphrodisiacs. In the case of the aromatherapy gift basket going out to someone with children, inlcude lavender oil. It is a good antiseptic and soothes cuts and burns, while calming the person. Lavender extract also eases headaches and migraines. Considering lemon oil is also wise. It serves as an anti-stress agent. Tea tree oil and thyme oil can be considered as part of the gift basket too. Tea tree oil is used externally as an antifungal, antiviral, antimicrobial, antiparasitic and antiseptic.

If you are planning to gift the aromatherapy gift basket to a friend who has a history of sinus, them including yarrow oil is a good idea. It helps to relieve cold and reduces the resultant joint inflammation. Your aromatherapy gift basket should also include cotton swabs and cotton balls. The essential oils accompanied with a brief hand-written description on the uses of each speak volumes for the intent. Depending on your budget, you could indulge in one, two or an assortment of the essential oils easily available. There are a number of online resources that even market baskets that can be customized by you.

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