Aromatherapy
The sense of smell is the key to remembering and
emotion. It could produce positive feelings, calm or
arouse, reverse negativity, relieve stress and worry,
etc. They can also have a psychic influence, evoking
visions and colors or feeling of having been "in touch".
In Aromatherapy, essential oils are used, which are
high concentrations of the life force
(oil glad or sac) of the the plants.
These are obtained from plants, flowers, blossoms
roots, bark, leaves, resins, needles and twigs, grasses,
seeds, roots, wood, fruit, peel of fruits, herbs, etc. by
specific distillation processes.
Water distillation: plant material placed in still
and covered with water, brought to a boil and the
steam produced is passed through a connecting tube
into a condenser. When the steam cools, returns to
liquid form producing essential oil.
Water and Steam distillation: the same process
as above but along with boiling material, steam is
also processed into the still producing more heat than
with just water.
Examples of how much plant material is needed
to produce only one pound of essential oil:
50 lbs. of Eucalyptus
150 lbs. of Lavender,
500 pounds of Rosemary,
1,000 lbs. of Jasmine,
2,000 lbs. of Rose petals,
highly concentrated and potent.
The perfumers of Europe escaped the plague
due to the use of certain plant based oils which
acted as antiseptics and antibacterials.
The oils are safe when used correctly and
are not addictive. First believed to be used hundreds
of years ago we know that they were used by the
Egyptians. There have been tomb drawings of stills
used at that time for the distillation process. The
hieroglyphic symbol for the verbs "to enjoy" or "to
take pleasure in" is represented by a "nose".
Archeologists have found evidence of oils in
many Egyptian tombs and they were used in healing,
ceremonies, and embalming. The practice of using
essential oils then spread to the Far East, Europe
and beyond.
The science of Aromatherapy is taken very
seriously in Europe today. It is possible to obtain
a Doctorate in Aromatherapy and it is prescribed
as a treatment for various ailments and used in
hospitals. Great Britain is one of the leading
countries in this field. In the Far East, there are
herbal and aromatherapy "apothecaries" who fill
prescriptions from doctors in the field of holistic
and alternate medicine...with much success.
Although this is such a safe means of
treatment. one should always seek the advice
of a medical professional when there is a problem.
In the US we have several schools teaching
this science and upon completing the program
and successfully passing the exams, will award
the certification of "Aromatherapy Practitioner".
Studies are being done at many universities,
particularly abroad, on the many benefits of this
wonderful means of healing.
Essential oils can also be used as a massage
blend and applied directly to skin. As they are quite
concentrated and potent, they should be diluted with
a carrier oil (our oil of choice is Fractionated Coconut
which has a long shelf life), or distilled water. Skin
sensitivity should be considered as well.
This is recommended for sore muscles or painful
areas, but again, one must know the synergies of the
oils in order to be sure they are safe.
Our skin creams have precious essential oils
using a base of pure Shea Butter which has been
purified for a smoother and creamier consistency.
Some essentials oils are not recommended for
use on children, expectant mothers,
or folks with certain medical problems
(blood pressure. etc.).
This is why it is important to obtain blends
from a reliable source.
Also, when working with animals, only use
essential oil blends that are
specifically formulated.
Please note that Aromatherapy is
not recommended for many of them
(birds, fish etc.)
Jeanne is a Certified Aromatherapist
and practitioner since 1992
Classes: None scheduled at this time
Products: Blends are not available at this time
for purchase at The Secret Garden Center or
on line...
Antiseptic - Anxiety & Stress -
Harmony Kit: (Anxiety & Stress...Mood lift...Nausea) -
Mood Lift - Nausea - Sleep - Bug Off- Headache
Sinus & Allergy...
The chart below shows how the properties
of essential oils are absorbed and processed in
our bodies. They are inhaled through the nose
(Olfactory) and then pass through our system.
This is quick and effective.
Many of our immunization applications are
now done through a "puff" of medicinal
vapor into the nasal cavities.
