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Go Soak Yourself! A Guide to Aromatherapy in the Bath

March 9th, 2010    Subscribe To Our Feed

One of the most common uses of aromatherapy scents is in the bathtub. For the most relaxing bath time a person will use one or more scents use for that purpose. There are also certain herbs and other ingredients that can be used to help rejuvenate the skin by moisturizing it and softening it.

Aromatherapy products for the bathtub include various scented bath beads, bath oils, bubble baths, scented soaps, and candles. Some people will use scented bath salts as well, or bubble bath gel capsules. All of these bath aromatherapy products come in a variety of aromas so you have quite a few to choose from. Quite a few of these products are made from all natural ingredients.

Some of the most common scents used in the bathtub are floral ones such as lavender, lily, or rose scents. Other natural ingredients sometimes used in scented bath products include food substances such as cucumber, melon, peach, or apple. Combination of these along with herbs and spices such as chamomile make for the perfect body relaxation time as well as the perfect skin improving remedy.

There are some artificial scents out there that are made for the bathtub as well. However, it is wise to be careful with these substances. Many of these can irritate the skin. Therefore, it is wise to stick with the ones that contain the most natural ingredients, and ones that contain substances and oils in them that will not harm your body.

There are a variety of instructions for using different aromatherapy bath products for your relaxation. Most of these instructions will accompany whatever bath product you buy. In case they do not, you can find some simple suggestions regarding this by reading other articles similar to this one or by following links to websites for more information.

One of the most basic aromatherapy bath techniques-and perhaps one of the most natural-is to use six to ten drops of your favorite essential oil in a bathtub full of water. Then you would bathe in it for about 20 minutes. If it is for a children’s bath you will want to use a little less than that, or perhaps only half the amount you would use for your bath if you are an adult (or teen).

The bath can be more than just relaxations time to sooth your skin, however. In addition, a variety of oils can be added to the bath water to help cure certain emotional or mental conditions. For example, one source recommends a mixture of lavender, bergamot, Melissa, geranium, and ylang-ylang added to the bathwater in order to provide a person relief from anxiety. A few drops of each type of oil would suffice.

If you need a little pick-me-up, then you may consider other types of herbs in your bathwater, or you may use them in your shower washing routine. For instance, the herb of jasmine is one that will cause you to be more alert, and can serve as a “pick-me-up” in the morning. The use of cucumbers would work as well, although cucumbers are not necessarily an aromatherapy remedy per se, but they are used often over the eyes in the morning to help wake a person up. Cucumbers also help eliminate dark circles under the eyes.

An additional point to consider when you are creating your own personal natural bath product, or finding one to use is this: no two people are affected in the same way by the same blend of aromas or natural ingredients. Therefore, you may need to experiment a little before finding the exact remedy that is right for you in certain situations.

 

Defining Essential Oils and their Uses

March 7th, 2010    Subscribe To Our Feed

Essential oils have many practical uses for many individuals. Essential oils are concentrated, hydrophobic liquids containing volatile aromatic compounds from plants. The oils are produced by distillation, or through expression, and extraction. The essential oils can be used in aromatherapy, perfumery, cosmetics, incense, for flavoring in food and drink, and in household cleaning products. These oils are vital in the fragrance and flavorant industries. The term essential indicates that oil is a fragrant essence of the plant. An aromatherapy massage is the most common use of essential oils. Using essential oils in aromatherapy can provide a healing and soothing massage for many people.

The path the essential oils take to affect an individual’s body is through the olfactory system. A person absorbs the oils by inhaling the aromatic chemicals that comprise the essential oils. The oils then affect the central nervous system, and cross the “blood-brain” barrier. The essential oils can be used in combination with bath salts to provide a soothing effect. Blending essential oils with Epsom Salts, Sea Salt, and Baking Soda, are perfect for sore and aching muscles. Only a small amount of essential oil should be blended with the bath salts. The blend of salts and oil can be added to a warm bath or may be used as a “salt glow rub” before taking a bath. The oils may also give the skin feeling soft, but it may leave a messy residue in the bathtub.

Essential oils may also be used in laundry. The oils may be used in the washing machine, or put on a cotton cloth and added to the dryer. However, there are some precautions that must be taken before adding any oils to the dryer. Adding lemon oil to the dryer will remove oily smells, and adding Eucalyptus Globulous to the washing machine may kill dust mites in bedding. lavender essential oils may also be used in the dryer to scent bed linens.

Essential oils may also be used for general household cleaning procedures. The oils can be used in cleaning counters, mirrors, and other fixtures. lemon oil can be used in the dishpan to cut grease in dishes. Oils can be used to freshen a home as well as clean it. Essential oils are used in aromatherapy candles and lamps. A few drops of an essential oil may also be used to freshen trashcans, drains, vacuum bag filters, or to freshen drawers. Oils such as citrus, spice, or floral may be added to certain foods and drinks to provide flavoring. It is important to mix the well and always let it stand before eating the food or drink. The oils may also be used as a bug repellant. Many essential oils such as citronella, lavender and peppermint can act as natural repellant against insects. The essential oil can be placed onto tissues or cotton balls, and placed near doorways and windows to help repel bugs. Although the oils help repel insects, it is not safe to use them around household pets. It is also not advisable to apply essential oils directly to fragile surfaces.

Essential oils may have many practical uses, but there are some dangers of using these oils. Essential oils generally cannot be applied directly onto the skin in the undiluted form. If essential oils are applied to the skin before dilution, it will cause severe irritation or provoke an allergic reaction. The oils should be applied with plant oils or carrier oils, such as olive oil or hazelnut. There are some essential oils that are photosensitizes, which increases the skin reaction to sunlight and making it more likely to burn. There are some professionals that advocate the ingestion of essential oils for therapeutic purposes, but this should never be done unless under the supervision of the professional. Some essential oils, such as Eucalyptus are toxic when taken internally.

Aromatherapy Recipe for Life’s Little Ouchies

March 2nd, 2010    Subscribe To Our Feed

There is a natural way to deal with cuts, scrapes, bruises, and other abrasions. One of the methods for treating these small ouchies is using various aromatherapy recipes.

One of the recipes for treating cuts and scrapes involves the use of ingredients such as carrier oil (i.e. almond oil) or infused oil (i.e. calendula), beeswax, and tea tree oil, and lavender oil.

These ounces of the carrier oil or infused oil is mixed with approximately an ounce of grated beeswax, and then about 40 drops of lavender and tea tree is added. Then, the beeswax is mixed with the heated oils, and stirred together with the essential oils. You can find exact instructions regarding the making of this particular balm by searching online for topics related to aromatherapy for cuts and scrapes.

There is another recipe that contains a variety of recipes that helps aid in the healing of bruises. The amount of each ingredient that you use will vary depending upon which exact recipe that you use. For now you will know that this particular mixture consists of about one ounce of carrier oil such as sweet almond and eight drops of helicrysum. All you need to do is mix the two substances together as thoroughly as possible and apply to the bruises a couple of times a day.

Another all-purpose aromatherapuedic recipe involves the use of a little which hazel, lavender and a cotton ball. Just saturate the cotton ball with the witch hazel and add one to two drops of the lavender oil. This works find on tiny cuts that will scare small children more than they actually hurt. This blend will also help prevent infection of the cut area. For extra protection, a small adhesive bandage can also be applied to the cut.

There are also aromatherapy recipes for other conditions as well. For instance, women can mix together certain herbal oils and other ingredients to combat the pain and discomfort caused by menstrual cramps. This particular recipe calls for a small amount of almond oil (approximately one ounce), and about 15 drops of peppermint, 10 drops of Cyprus, and 5 drops of lavender. This may not be the same exact proportion of oils that everyone would recommend, but it would be an approximate measure that will possibly be beneficial to you.

There are also blends that can be used for stomachaches as well, especially for children. Ingredients such as fennel, chamomile, and fennel are mixed together in varying proportions. Additionally, lavender is sometimes used as well. Make sure you find the proper blend to use, because children are usually suppose to receive less than an adult would. Therefore, do some research before administering this particular treatment, which would be applied directly to the abdomen of a child in order to sooth most types of stomachache.

Other aromatherapuedic remedies are created for the use of treating arthritic joints. It is believed that the right combination of ingredients such as Roman chamomile (approximately 20 drops) and black pepper (approximately 5 drops) in an almond oil base will work wonders for loosening up stiff joints.

Many solutions can be pre-mixed and stored for later use. Make sure you follow all storage instructions you are given at the time of mixing certain herbal oil solutions. For instance, most are meant to be stored in an air-tight container. If you follow all the instructions for the storage of each mixture each one should last you quite awhile.

If you need some recommendations for any other type of injury you can also consult a professional. Your medical doctor is the first choice, and an aromatherapist would be your second choice. Whomever you get your advice from make sure that you do enough research to know that the help you receive is from a trusted source.

Great Aromatherapy Gift Basket Ideas

March 1st, 2010    Subscribe To Our Feed

With a gift-giving holiday or birthday always seeming to be just around the corner, it can sometimes be hard to think of what to get everyone. If you have an aromatherapy nut in your life, however, the possibilities are endless.

If you are crunched for time or ideas, you can purchase a pre-made gift basket. These are available from several different retailers online, or are often for sale at health and wellness stores and places where you would buy aromatherapy products. Available in all sizes and varieties, you are sure to find the exact something that will make your aromatherapy lover smile.

If you have a little creativity and time, however, you can design your own custom gift basket to give. That way you can choose the exact things that your recipient will love, and it will have a more personal touch because you designed it.

First, you will want to decide on a theme for your basket. Will it be a romantic one? Will it be a relaxing one? Does your friend enjoy a particular scent? Having a basic idea in mind can help keep you focused when designing the basket.

Next, you will need to consider your container. Obviously, a gift basket can be just a basket. These are available at craft stores in a variety of sizes and prices. Or you can be more creative and look for something that works with your theme. For example, recycle a large Valentine’s candy box for a romantic gift. Use Chinese food take-out boxes if you are going for an oriental theme. Use a large pet dish if you are giving a gift to the animal lover in your life, and so on. Craft stores are often a great place to start looking for unique containers, though you can find them just about anywhere. Unique containers can also be found at thrift stores, yard sales, or maybe even lying around your own home.

Next, it is time to consider what you would like to put into the basket. Only your finances and your imagination limit this. Go to an aromatherapy store or browse online for inspiration, and then run with it. For instance, if you are making a relaxing basket, there is a good chance that you might consider lavender. But, you have a variety of types. You could go with some lavender-scented candles, some herbal tea, and a book that you know they would like. Or you could go with lavender-scented bath oils and massage lotions and a loofah for a mini-spa day at home. Your choices are limitless. Filler ideas are available at nearly every store.

For the very creative, you can consider making your own products at home to tailor your gift precisely to your recipient. Some knowledge of essential oils and how they should be mixed is required to do this, so always do your homework. Wear gloves when working with the pure oils, and work in a well-ventilated area, stopping frequently for breaks for fresh air. You might also consider attaching a label or card with the oils you used for your friend or loved one, so they know what was in the custom made product should they enjoy the experience and want more or if they have an allergic reaction. If you like to cook, you can include some homemade goodies in the basket as well that go along with the experience you are trying to create. For example, if you are creating an aromatherapy tea basket, bake some cookies or muffins to go along with the tea.

With a little time and creativity (or some savvy online shopping) you can find the perfect gift for your aromatherapy lover with hardly any effort. They will be thrilled to know the amount of thought that you put into creating a gift just for them.

The Benefits and Do’s and Don’ts of Aromatherapeutic Massage

February 24th, 2010    Subscribe To Our Feed

Aromatherapeutic massages are a real treat for most people. These massages involve the use of essential oils during the massage process.  Often times a massage that involves the use of various essential oils is performed on a person by a professional. A person licensed to help relax and relieve you in the areas where you feel tense will often be the most help to you. They are the people who most know what they are doing. However, many people are just as naturally gifted at home, and those people can get together ad help one another to feel refreshed.

When a person feels more physically relaxed they also feel less stressed out mentally as well. In turn they will experience fewer symptoms of mental stress such as anxiety, panic attacks, worry, and so forth. They will be able to think clear and sleep better as well. Almost anyone can benefit from a massage that involves using scented oils.

Using scented oils during massage is not only relaxing, but it also is sensual in some cases. Couples who want to add more excitement to their love lives can use different scents to enhance their foreplay before lovemaking. In fact, there are specific ingredients that are used in various recipes for romantic massages to be performed before lovemaking.

Some of the ingredients used in massages for passionate and romantic purposes include orange, jasmine, black pepper, clary sage, rose, or cedar wood. These are best applied if they are combined with no artificial ingredients, which is one reason why you would benefit from making the at home versus buying them. You can also use combinations of these same oils, or just one of these oils, to scent your pillows, sheets, and so forth.

Your partner will come growling after, ready to get down do it if you know that your partner loves the scents mentioned in the previous paragraph. Other scents that can be used for romantic settings include neroli and chamomile, which also can be used to help scent your bed, pillows, and sheets.

There is yet another massage oil combination that may even work better for you and your romantic partner than the ones mentioned already. This one would include ingredients such as lavender, rose, and geranium, along with almond and jojoba oils. This can be used everywhere on a person’s body including behind the ears, on the forehead, on the back, and everywhere else you can think of.

There are quite a few benefits to using aromas during massages. However, there are a few don’ts to remember while trying to please your romantic partner or a friend. One of those is to make sure that you do not use too much oil during the massage process.  Otherwise, you could have more of a mess than necessary to clean up afterwards. Additionally, using too much oil can clog a person’s pores and unwanted skin blemishes could develop.

It is also important to make sure that you know the person you perform the massage on is no allergic to the oils that you are using. Chances are that will not happen. However, some people may be allergic to substances such as almond oil or certain herbs or spices. It is always wise to let your partner or massage recipient know all the ingredients in the essential oil recipe that you plan to use.

Another aspect of massaging with oils would involve the act of massaging itself. There is a right and a wrong way to massage someone. However, with some experience and common sense it makes sense to follow the advice that is given in this article. Please read the next paragraph.

One basic piece of advice for those giving a massage at home is to make sure there is clear communication between the massage giver and the massage receiver. This means that it should be clear that the massage recipient is not in any excess pain during the massage as a result of the giver pressing too hard.

It is the job of the massage giver to be conscious and sensitive of this fact, and the receiver can help the massage giver by being completely honest about how they feel about the massage. Also, remember not to offer a massage to anyone without asking if they would like one.

With these bits of advice you are sure to have success while giving and receiving massages, as well as using essential oils during the process. Along with that, just trust your instincts, and it should go very smoothly.

Aromatherapy could be an Excellent Distraction in your Weight Loss Goals

November 25th, 2009    Subscribe To Our Feed

Did you ever think of smelling your way to your ideal weight? That may sound kind of funny when you first hear about it, or even downright obnoxious.

There are claims that one way to reach your weight loss goals is by the use of various aromatherapy oils. Not everyone believes this is true, and even some experts would not recommend this weight loss method. However, if it is a method that it is used it may be worth looking into if you believe it could help you.

If you decide to try aromatherapy for weight loss, you will need to remember a variety of things. For starters, it is important that you realize that practicing aromatherapy in order to lose weight is not necessarily going to cause you to work miracles. However, it is possible that the use of various essential oils (externally only) in conjunction with a proper diet and exercise program can do you wonders.

The main purpose of using aromatherapy products is to help reduce food cravings and to help curb your appetite. These products can also aid in calming the withdrawal symptoms you may get when you long for certain foods you can no longer have, or that you cannot eat as often. Certain aromas can also help provide you with additional energy during exercise, work, and other times when you need a pick-me-up.

Some of the energizing herbal essences include orange, lemon, grapefruit, rosemary, and peppermint. There may be other ones that you can use that will aid you in your decision to lose weight and to keep healthy as well, and there are quite a few references to these online.

Besides using aromatherapy products, it is also wise for you to consult a doctor before you start any diet program-including one that include using aromatic oils. That professional will perform a complete exam on you and will get to know more about your complete stature.

From there you will learn about what types of foods are best for you to eat, and you will have more of an idea about what type of exercise program you should involve yourself in. Furthermore, your doctor will be able to give his or her opinion about the overall validity of using aromatherapy as a weight loss aid.

Once you have consulted a doctor to help you with your weight loss plan then you may want to find some help and advice from a qualified aromatherapist or aromatherapy consultant. An aromatherapist is one who is properly licensed and has received formal aromatherapy training as well as hands-on training in an area such as nursing, massage or cosmetology.

An aromatherapy consultant (sometimes referred to as an aromacologist) is one who has formal aromatherapy training but does not possess any hands-on training in another field that may utilize aromatherapy products. (They do not directly work with patients.)

The right aromatherapy specialist can give you all the information you need regarding the use of various essential oils and other aromatherapy products for weight loss. This combined with the help you would receive from a qualified medical professional will send you on your way to discovering a weight loss program that may even possibly include the use of aromatherapuedic scents.

If you are looking for further information regarding the practice of aromatherapy and how you can blend your own solutions at home the Internet can also be an excellent source of information. Articles and research is presented for you to see twenty-four hours a day seven days a week. If you find a source that you trust it can help answer all your questions about using various essential oils for the purpose of losing weight.

More information on Aromatherapy can be found in my ebook which can be found here so have look today

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