It's here.
Marc had a three day fever with a headache but was able to bypass the cough and runny nose due to repetitive treatment with essential oils.
It came on fast. "I feel funny," he said, "Like I'm way above my head." This was not a good sign since he was sober. He got really cold, then hot and sweaty and then collapsed on the bed. He stayed there for the most part of the 48 hours of fever, (his temperature hovered around 100-101 degrees).
Here's what I gave him.
In addition to his nightly allergy regime (lavender & morroccan chamomile on his feet), I put Eucalyptus Globus on his chest and feet and applied Bay Laurel to his lymph nodes. For his headache, I rubbed Melissa on his temples.
Apply these oils whenever needed. Eucalyptus Globus is excellent for battling a cough. I think because I did this early, he never developed congestion.
Most importantly, he took 2 drops of Oregano in a glass of water every day. I can't praise Oregano high enough. I swear, it kills everything.
Sleeping became the final cure.
9/11/09
9/3/09
The Power of Provence
Where and when plants are harvested make a big difference to the essential oil composition.
When you think about it, it makes sense.
We live on a planet. This is an important reminder because we forget.
When light reaches planet Earth, the spectral composition changes with altitude.
Photosynthetic machinery in plants react gingerly to the slight variation in the composition of light in different elevations.
In Provence, wild essential oil plants are collected with attention to altitude. Thyme oils from sea level tend to contain high concentrations of phenols. Thyme harvested from higher altitudes contain high concentrations of terpene alcohols.
This is the reason there are a variety of different chemotypes from the Provence region.
When you think about it, it makes sense.
We live on a planet. This is an important reminder because we forget.
When light reaches planet Earth, the spectral composition changes with altitude.
Photosynthetic machinery in plants react gingerly to the slight variation in the composition of light in different elevations.
In Provence, wild essential oil plants are collected with attention to altitude. Thyme oils from sea level tend to contain high concentrations of phenols. Thyme harvested from higher altitudes contain high concentrations of terpene alcohols.
This is the reason there are a variety of different chemotypes from the Provence region.
8/31/09
Your Bacteria is Your Own
As humans we share many common traits. Body, blood and brain. Of course we notice differences between us; body shapes, blood types and IQ are not the same in everyone.
This is true with bacteria.
Every individual has his or her own unique set of bacteria and the streptococcus in person A will not be identical to a streptococcus in person B.
The more serious and chronic a case, the more exceptional and unexpected are the essential oils that turn out to be effective.
Where antibiotics inflict extensive damage on human bacterial flora, essential oils respect the integrity of "friendly" bacteria, which is a necessary condition for true and lasting healing.
The effects of essential oils are in every case multifaceted and deep, and principally different from the one-dimensional and often harmful effects of antibiotics.
This is true with bacteria.
Every individual has his or her own unique set of bacteria and the streptococcus in person A will not be identical to a streptococcus in person B.
The more serious and chronic a case, the more exceptional and unexpected are the essential oils that turn out to be effective.
Where antibiotics inflict extensive damage on human bacterial flora, essential oils respect the integrity of "friendly" bacteria, which is a necessary condition for true and lasting healing.
The effects of essential oils are in every case multifaceted and deep, and principally different from the one-dimensional and often harmful effects of antibiotics.
8/27/09
Flu Season Arsenal
Forget the flu shot. To prepare for flu season, you need to strengthen your immunity so that your body goes, "Feh" when confronted with the influenza virus.
Defend your health before the season starts with this application. After every shower, rub 15 drops of MQV all over the body. Do this every day and you will not only feel great, but at the same time you are creating an armor against infection.
If the flu does break through, the heavy-weight in aroma artillery is Oregano. Treat acute conditions, whether gastrointestinal or bronchial, with a drop in a glass of water each day, for up to 10 days. In addition, put Bay Laurel and/or Rock Rose directly on swollen lymph nodes as needed. Drinking water with a drop of Lemon will purify it as well as aid in mucus drainage. Rubbing Geranium, Rosemary Verbone, Ravensare or Eucalyptus Globus on the feet will help eliminate remaining pathogens.
Defend your health before the season starts with this application. After every shower, rub 15 drops of MQV all over the body. Do this every day and you will not only feel great, but at the same time you are creating an armor against infection.
If the flu does break through, the heavy-weight in aroma artillery is Oregano. Treat acute conditions, whether gastrointestinal or bronchial, with a drop in a glass of water each day, for up to 10 days. In addition, put Bay Laurel and/or Rock Rose directly on swollen lymph nodes as needed. Drinking water with a drop of Lemon will purify it as well as aid in mucus drainage. Rubbing Geranium, Rosemary Verbone, Ravensare or Eucalyptus Globus on the feet will help eliminate remaining pathogens.
8/26/09
Careful of the Kidneys
One of the most well-known toxic effects is juniper oil's irritation of the kidney. Juniper oil contains monoterpenes, which can over stimulate the kidneys. Since the stimulating effect is linked to kidney-tissue damage, therapeutic use of juniper oil should be undertaken with caution.
The kidneys have a better tolerance for oils with a high terpene alcohol or ester content such as lavender, clary sage, or tea tree, and these oils can be used with frequency and are especially effective when applied right after showering.
The kidneys have a better tolerance for oils with a high terpene alcohol or ester content such as lavender, clary sage, or tea tree, and these oils can be used with frequency and are especially effective when applied right after showering.
8/25/09
Oil of Chaste Berry
It seems rather ironical that the essential oil of chaste berry, Vitex agnus castus, is highly effective in treating PMS complaints.
Vitex essential oil equilibrates the imbalances of insufficient progestrone and excessive estrogen towards the end of the cycle. Research is currently seeking an active ingredient to how Vitex increases progesterone through unknown mechanisms. Some consider Vitex interacts directly with the hypothalamus.
In studies, individuals experienced dramatic changes over time, which suggests that Vitex interacts with hormone status.
To ease PMS complaints, use one drop per day, either on the wrists or orally.
Vitex essential oil equilibrates the imbalances of insufficient progestrone and excessive estrogen towards the end of the cycle. Research is currently seeking an active ingredient to how Vitex increases progesterone through unknown mechanisms. Some consider Vitex interacts directly with the hypothalamus.
In studies, individuals experienced dramatic changes over time, which suggests that Vitex interacts with hormone status.
To ease PMS complaints, use one drop per day, either on the wrists or orally.
8/24/09
Can You Switch Over?
If you relied on allopathic (conventional) medicine your whole life and have manifest diseases, you cannot just switch over to alternative therapies and expect a miracle.
Healing ourselves is often about changing our minds. Old patterns are deeply ingrained and allopathic drugs may have created dependency. It would be unwise and irresponsible to simply quit conventional treatment all of a sudden.
Change can be made gradually by introducing oils in combination with medication. Many times, people experience drastic improvement because their vital functions have been depressed for so long.
Healing the body from the inside-out takes time and eventually consistent use of essential oils will restore immunity and vitality to the point where medications are no longer needed.
Healing ourselves is often about changing our minds. Old patterns are deeply ingrained and allopathic drugs may have created dependency. It would be unwise and irresponsible to simply quit conventional treatment all of a sudden.
Change can be made gradually by introducing oils in combination with medication. Many times, people experience drastic improvement because their vital functions have been depressed for so long.
Healing the body from the inside-out takes time and eventually consistent use of essential oils will restore immunity and vitality to the point where medications are no longer needed.
8/21/09
Stress-Less
It's true that simply smelling an essential oil's aroma can be relaxing.
Smelling Green myrtle and Clary Sage creates instant relaxation and even euphoria for some sensitive people. A friend of mine experiences strong tinnitus that is painful. I put some Clary Sage on the rims of her ears. In just a few minutes, the ringing was gone and she felt much calmer. She was absolutely amazed.
Stress can be caused by an overactive nervous system and in this society, who isn't overactive?
The phenylpropane esters, especially estrogole (methyl chavicol) stabilizes the sympathetic nervous system. Culinary usage of Tarragon, Basil and the traditional use of anise-flavored liquors like Pernod, Ouzo and Absinthe all work through the digestive organs to achieve the calming effect.
The antispasmodic effect is good for all tension, whether mentally-related stress, muscle soreness or premenstrual cramping.
Smelling Green myrtle and Clary Sage creates instant relaxation and even euphoria for some sensitive people. A friend of mine experiences strong tinnitus that is painful. I put some Clary Sage on the rims of her ears. In just a few minutes, the ringing was gone and she felt much calmer. She was absolutely amazed.
Stress can be caused by an overactive nervous system and in this society, who isn't overactive?
The phenylpropane esters, especially estrogole (methyl chavicol) stabilizes the sympathetic nervous system. Culinary usage of Tarragon, Basil and the traditional use of anise-flavored liquors like Pernod, Ouzo and Absinthe all work through the digestive organs to achieve the calming effect.
The antispasmodic effect is good for all tension, whether mentally-related stress, muscle soreness or premenstrual cramping.
8/20/09
Hydrosol for the Eyes
Myrtle water is an important hydrosol because it can be used on the eyes.
Normally, essential oils irritate eyes. When they do, daub a paper towel with a fatty oil like olive or almond and wipe the eyes. The oil will draw the lipophilic essential oil from the eye better than water.
Myrtle hydrosol solves all kinds of inflammation in the eyes, from conjunctivitis to hay fever to any allergic reaction, you can spray directly into the eyes for relief.
Normally, essential oils irritate eyes. When they do, daub a paper towel with a fatty oil like olive or almond and wipe the eyes. The oil will draw the lipophilic essential oil from the eye better than water.
Myrtle hydrosol solves all kinds of inflammation in the eyes, from conjunctivitis to hay fever to any allergic reaction, you can spray directly into the eyes for relief.
8/19/09
How Essential Oils Heal
Essential Oils have evolved through natural selection to protect the host organism from viral infection.
The synthetic pathways of the cell have existed since the beginning of evolution. The specific composition of an Essential Oil is a consequence of evolutionary development. The molecular constituents work on the body's physiological receptors and messenger system. These are our systems of health equilibrium.
Aromatherapy revitalizes chemical communication between human and plant, restoring immunity and "resetting" the communication functions of the biological system. Thus, "curing" the dis-ease.
The synthetic pathways of the cell have existed since the beginning of evolution. The specific composition of an Essential Oil is a consequence of evolutionary development. The molecular constituents work on the body's physiological receptors and messenger system. These are our systems of health equilibrium.
Aromatherapy revitalizes chemical communication between human and plant, restoring immunity and "resetting" the communication functions of the biological system. Thus, "curing" the dis-ease.
8/18/09
Shake off a Cold
It's easy.
First sign of scratchy throat or extra mucus, take 1 drop of Oregano in a glass of water.
Oregano has a very strong, spicy flavor, so if you're sensitive, put 1-2 drops in a gel capsule.
Use Bay Laurel directly on swollen lymph nodes.
Do this regimen once a day for 5-7 days, or until you feel better and forget to take your oils.
For extra immunity, put 5 drops of MQV/Niaouli on your feet then put on socks before bed.
I guarantee you will shake off that cold instead of suffering from symptoms.
First sign of scratchy throat or extra mucus, take 1 drop of Oregano in a glass of water.
Oregano has a very strong, spicy flavor, so if you're sensitive, put 1-2 drops in a gel capsule.
Use Bay Laurel directly on swollen lymph nodes.
Do this regimen once a day for 5-7 days, or until you feel better and forget to take your oils.
For extra immunity, put 5 drops of MQV/Niaouli on your feet then put on socks before bed.
I guarantee you will shake off that cold instead of suffering from symptoms.
8/13/09
Using Essential Oils Can Cause Happiness
We experience higher levels of interaction: happy feeling and spiritual receptivity do exist. It has not entered into the scientific concern that liver enzymes do–but the methodology for study needs to be different too.
Since essential oils are unpatentable, those scientific studies will not surface. Science has become a corporate game where isolated ingredients are sought after for profit. This is the reason Aromatherapy has become anecdotal. Although double blind studies confirmed that imbalances such as cramps, nervousness, anxiety, headaches, migraines, heart palpitations and heat flashes could all be successfully treated with essential oils. This kind of suffering is usually stress-related and it is well-known that stress has caused many of our "civilization" diseases.
The aroma of essential oils is part of their healing that can lead to feelings of calm, relaxing happiness and upliftment. Emotions are an authentic part of the healing process.
Since essential oils are unpatentable, those scientific studies will not surface. Science has become a corporate game where isolated ingredients are sought after for profit. This is the reason Aromatherapy has become anecdotal. Although double blind studies confirmed that imbalances such as cramps, nervousness, anxiety, headaches, migraines, heart palpitations and heat flashes could all be successfully treated with essential oils. This kind of suffering is usually stress-related and it is well-known that stress has caused many of our "civilization" diseases.
The aroma of essential oils is part of their healing that can lead to feelings of calm, relaxing happiness and upliftment. Emotions are an authentic part of the healing process.
8/11/09
Cold Sore Treatment
Last week I was sick, had my period and got a cold sore on my lip.
Lovely.
At the first sign, I put Melissa directly on my lip. Then I made a blend.
1 part Geranium
1 part Melissa
1 part Lavender
10 parts Tea Tree
After applying undiluted several times a day, it was painful for just 36 hours and then the swelling disappeared and it dried it up.
I then added Kukui Nut Oil (or you can substitute Almond) to the blend to moisturize.
This treatment not only shortened the time I had to endure, but the blister did not get that noticeable. It took one week to heal instead of the usual two.
UPDATE:
I used this on Marc. He caught it early and didn't even develop anything. It went away completely after two days! Amazing.
Lovely.
At the first sign, I put Melissa directly on my lip. Then I made a blend.
1 part Geranium
1 part Melissa
1 part Lavender
10 parts Tea Tree
After applying undiluted several times a day, it was painful for just 36 hours and then the swelling disappeared and it dried it up.
I then added Kukui Nut Oil (or you can substitute Almond) to the blend to moisturize.
This treatment not only shortened the time I had to endure, but the blister did not get that noticeable. It took one week to heal instead of the usual two.
UPDATE:
I used this on Marc. He caught it early and didn't even develop anything. It went away completely after two days! Amazing.
8/5/09
Antiviral Explained
Viruses attach to the same receptors as neuro peptides. This suggests that a virus, which fits a given receptor, will have an easier or harder time invading the cell, depending on how much natural peptide for that receptor is available to bind.
Since essential oils are highly active on and in membranes, it is reasonable to expect that similar mechanisms may contribute to the antiviral effects of oils. In other words, essential oils known to have antiviral effects may block the sites through which viruses gain access to the cell.
This can explain the incredible antiviral affects essential oils have shown and gives legitimacy to practice of using small amounts of oil to fight infection.
Since essential oils are highly active on and in membranes, it is reasonable to expect that similar mechanisms may contribute to the antiviral effects of oils. In other words, essential oils known to have antiviral effects may block the sites through which viruses gain access to the cell.
This can explain the incredible antiviral affects essential oils have shown and gives legitimacy to practice of using small amounts of oil to fight infection.
8/4/09
Shingles
When it comes to treating shingles, aromatherapy has no competition.
If you've had chicken pox as a child, you could have a reoccurence as an adult and it's called Shingles. It's a painful condition and this recipe is the best remedy.
At the first sign, apply equal amounts of Calophyllum and Ravensare directly to the affected area several times a day.
Repeated treatments using essential oils will cause relapses to appear less frequently and ultimately disappear entirely.
Calophyllum is not an essential oil but an aromatic fatty oil. It is produced by pressing the fruit of the Calophyllum inophyllum tree. It has a blue-green color and an aroma similar to loveage.
People on the coasts of the Indian Ocean use Calophyllum oil as a panacea due to its phagocytosis-stimulating qualities. Phagocytosis is a function of our immune system which serves to eliminate unwanted substances. In other words, Phagocytosis takes the trash out.
Ravensare actually comes from the leaves of Cinnamonum camphora and is used to treat viral infections and is an excellent nerve tonic. It works wonders in cases of acute flu*, mononucleosis, relieving insomnia, raising overall energy and creating an optimistic mood.
*For the treatment of acute flu, Ravensare is best taken internally.
1 drop every two hours.
If you've had chicken pox as a child, you could have a reoccurence as an adult and it's called Shingles. It's a painful condition and this recipe is the best remedy.
At the first sign, apply equal amounts of Calophyllum and Ravensare directly to the affected area several times a day.
Repeated treatments using essential oils will cause relapses to appear less frequently and ultimately disappear entirely.
Calophyllum is not an essential oil but an aromatic fatty oil. It is produced by pressing the fruit of the Calophyllum inophyllum tree. It has a blue-green color and an aroma similar to loveage.
People on the coasts of the Indian Ocean use Calophyllum oil as a panacea due to its phagocytosis-stimulating qualities. Phagocytosis is a function of our immune system which serves to eliminate unwanted substances. In other words, Phagocytosis takes the trash out.
Ravensare actually comes from the leaves of Cinnamonum camphora and is used to treat viral infections and is an excellent nerve tonic. It works wonders in cases of acute flu*, mononucleosis, relieving insomnia, raising overall energy and creating an optimistic mood.
*For the treatment of acute flu, Ravensare is best taken internally.
1 drop every two hours.
8/3/09
Phenylpropanes are a Big Deal
Phenylpropanes are byproducts of the amino acid metabolism, which is essential for the production of proteins. In a sequence of reactions and rearrangements, the amino acid phenylalanine is transformed into cinnamic acid and from there to all commonly encountered phenylpropanoids.
The Shikimate pathway is the biosynthetic route to amino acids phenylalanine, tyrosine and tryptophan. This pathway is only found in microorganisms and plants. Thus, it is essential to the diets of animals, including humans.
What's the big deal?
All phenylpropanes are formed by the enzyme PAL (L-phenylalanine ammonia lyase) which is the enzyme at the branch between primary and secondary metabolism. In other words, PAL is a core enzyme in the response to outside stresses. PAL activity increases in plants in response to various stimuli (sunshine) and/or stresses (predators, disease). As PAL activity increases in response to infection, the enzyme activity of defense occurs in a very confined area around the infection.
An Essential Oil's immunity quality is defined by its molecular constituents. For example, anethole, methyl chavicol, cinnamic aldehyde, eugenol and methyl eugenol, to name only a few, are all derived from phenylalanine and cinnamic acid. Cinnamic aldehyde (cinnamon bark oil and cassia oil), although irritating to the skin, has incredibly strong antiseptic properties. Likewise, eugenol, the main component of Clove oil, has strong antiseptic qualities, with a broad spectrum of action against bacteria and is antiviral and strengthening.
The constituents of Essential Oils have biological functions that aid in the life force of organisms. It no less than their biological function that is the secret to how Essential Oils battle bacteria and viral infections.
The Shikimate pathway is the biosynthetic route to amino acids phenylalanine, tyrosine and tryptophan. This pathway is only found in microorganisms and plants. Thus, it is essential to the diets of animals, including humans.
What's the big deal?
All phenylpropanes are formed by the enzyme PAL (L-phenylalanine ammonia lyase) which is the enzyme at the branch between primary and secondary metabolism. In other words, PAL is a core enzyme in the response to outside stresses. PAL activity increases in plants in response to various stimuli (sunshine) and/or stresses (predators, disease). As PAL activity increases in response to infection, the enzyme activity of defense occurs in a very confined area around the infection.
An Essential Oil's immunity quality is defined by its molecular constituents. For example, anethole, methyl chavicol, cinnamic aldehyde, eugenol and methyl eugenol, to name only a few, are all derived from phenylalanine and cinnamic acid. Cinnamic aldehyde (cinnamon bark oil and cassia oil), although irritating to the skin, has incredibly strong antiseptic properties. Likewise, eugenol, the main component of Clove oil, has strong antiseptic qualities, with a broad spectrum of action against bacteria and is antiviral and strengthening.
The constituents of Essential Oils have biological functions that aid in the life force of organisms. It no less than their biological function that is the secret to how Essential Oils battle bacteria and viral infections.
8/1/09
Rock Rose
Wow. Rock Rose Cistus landaniferus has an amazing range of therapeutic properties.
Combined with Bay laurel on lymph nodes can aid in any lymphatic drainage (mucus relieving).
Cistus hydrosol combined with Mytle hydrosol combats the symptoms of hay fever, especially itchy red eyes.
Put Rock Rose directly on a bleeding cut and it will help slow and stop the bleeding. It's a great oil to put in an after shave lotion.
Finally, this recipe includes Cistus for wrinkles around the eyes.
15 drops Green Myrtle
15 drops Cistus/Rock Rose
20mL Rose hip seed oil
200mL Hazelnut oil
The oil of Rock Rose is produced in hot, sun-drenched regions. It is used for its astringent and tightening qualities. Rock Rose is the fastest-acting oil to stop bleeding from open wounds and its masculine scent adds to an after shave oil that closes small cuts after shaving.
Combined with Bay laurel on lymph nodes can aid in any lymphatic drainage (mucus relieving).
Cistus hydrosol combined with Mytle hydrosol combats the symptoms of hay fever, especially itchy red eyes.
Put Rock Rose directly on a bleeding cut and it will help slow and stop the bleeding. It's a great oil to put in an after shave lotion.
Finally, this recipe includes Cistus for wrinkles around the eyes.
15 drops Green Myrtle
15 drops Cistus/Rock Rose
20mL Rose hip seed oil
200mL Hazelnut oil
The oil of Rock Rose is produced in hot, sun-drenched regions. It is used for its astringent and tightening qualities. Rock Rose is the fastest-acting oil to stop bleeding from open wounds and its masculine scent adds to an after shave oil that closes small cuts after shaving.
7/31/09
Photosensitization in Oils
Some essential oils put on the skin can cause rashes and blistering when exposed to light or ultraviolet light. Oils that contain courmarin or furocourmarin content can cause this photosensitization.
Citrus oils contain these molecules and should be checked for potential irritant qualities (on the back of the wrist or inside of elbow). Essential oils such as Bergamot, Lemon, Grapefruit, Mandarin and Orange are photosensitizing and should not be used before exposure to sunlight.
Citrus oils contain these molecules and should be checked for potential irritant qualities (on the back of the wrist or inside of elbow). Essential oils such as Bergamot, Lemon, Grapefruit, Mandarin and Orange are photosensitizing and should not be used before exposure to sunlight.
7/30/09
Conditioner for Hair Growth
This recipe is not an ordinary hair conditioner. To understand how this conditioner works, it's important to understand hair cycles. The hair on your head is dead. What is alive is still in your scalp and cycles range around six weeks to see the new growth push out the old. Of course, the cycles vary with each follicle which is why all our hair doesn't fall out at once. Hair continually falls out and no more so than when shampooing it.
Yes, shampooing your hair makes it fall out. So shampooing often is not a good idea. I recommend once a week, especially if you are experiencing hair loss.
I began this conditioner regime after I returned from India in 1998. As guest of the government of Kerala, I went as a writer and brought a photographer. My only other worldly excursion was a trip to Italy when I worked for an adventure travel magazine to write a story about landscape painting in Tuscany. It was an unbelievably stressful trip. Almost 100 degrees every day, we both got sick and plans were constantly reworked. Afterwards, I left the heat and flew to the cold dampness of Ireland to visit Marc. When I came home, my hair started to fall out. I got a quarter size spot of missing hair. I went to the doctor and was diagnosed with alopecia areata.
Like so many modern diseases, there is no cure for alopecia. The allopathic solution was a steroid injection right into the bald spot. It eventually grew back, but since I was dealing with an immune disorder, I would get another spot. Especially if I was stressed.
Research led me to aromatherapy which led to me tossing out all my make-up, shampoo, conditioner and hair products. I make my own face lotions and have a wonderful queen who custom-blends my make-up. I don't have alopecia anymore. My hair stylist has been amazed how thick my hair has gotten. There are more recipes for alopecia I will post, but I swear on this recipe to regain hair growth. It may be some effort, but you can double or triple the recipe. It keeps for a long time.
Use this conditioner BEFORE you shampoo. Leave on at least 10 minutes, but overnight is even better. Put a small, dime-size amount in your hands, rub to together and massage into the scalp.
Consider using this everyday in small amounts, without shampooing.
CONDITIONER
2tsp Lecithin Base*
5 drops Jojoba oil
10 drops Evening Primrose Oil
2Tbsp Almond Oil
*Lecithin Base
2 ounces Liquid Lecithin
2 ounces Almond Oil
2 tsp Jojoba Oil
1/4 ounce Cocoa Butter
First, blend the Lecithin base in a bain marie (or put oils in a ceramic bowl inside a metal pot filled a bit with water. gently blend until simmering. you don't want the water to boil over into the oils.)
Put the Lecithin Base in a jar to keep for future recipes.
Now combine the entire recipe, with the base, in a bain marie. Let cool then bottle/jar.
Yes, shampooing your hair makes it fall out. So shampooing often is not a good idea. I recommend once a week, especially if you are experiencing hair loss.
I began this conditioner regime after I returned from India in 1998. As guest of the government of Kerala, I went as a writer and brought a photographer. My only other worldly excursion was a trip to Italy when I worked for an adventure travel magazine to write a story about landscape painting in Tuscany. It was an unbelievably stressful trip. Almost 100 degrees every day, we both got sick and plans were constantly reworked. Afterwards, I left the heat and flew to the cold dampness of Ireland to visit Marc. When I came home, my hair started to fall out. I got a quarter size spot of missing hair. I went to the doctor and was diagnosed with alopecia areata.
Like so many modern diseases, there is no cure for alopecia. The allopathic solution was a steroid injection right into the bald spot. It eventually grew back, but since I was dealing with an immune disorder, I would get another spot. Especially if I was stressed.
Research led me to aromatherapy which led to me tossing out all my make-up, shampoo, conditioner and hair products. I make my own face lotions and have a wonderful queen who custom-blends my make-up. I don't have alopecia anymore. My hair stylist has been amazed how thick my hair has gotten. There are more recipes for alopecia I will post, but I swear on this recipe to regain hair growth. It may be some effort, but you can double or triple the recipe. It keeps for a long time.
Use this conditioner BEFORE you shampoo. Leave on at least 10 minutes, but overnight is even better. Put a small, dime-size amount in your hands, rub to together and massage into the scalp.
Consider using this everyday in small amounts, without shampooing.
CONDITIONER
2tsp Lecithin Base*
5 drops Jojoba oil
10 drops Evening Primrose Oil
2Tbsp Almond Oil
*Lecithin Base
2 ounces Liquid Lecithin
2 ounces Almond Oil
2 tsp Jojoba Oil
1/4 ounce Cocoa Butter
First, blend the Lecithin base in a bain marie (or put oils in a ceramic bowl inside a metal pot filled a bit with water. gently blend until simmering. you don't want the water to boil over into the oils.)
Put the Lecithin Base in a jar to keep for future recipes.
Now combine the entire recipe, with the base, in a bain marie. Let cool then bottle/jar.
7/28/09
Functional Group: Esters
Functional groups are groups of atoms found within molecules that are involved in the chemical reactions characteristic of those molecules. The bond between carbon and oxygen is polar, which makes it chemically more reactive and distinguishes the structural characteristics of the essential oil molecule. Among the oxygen-containing function groups are Esters, which are fungicidal, sedating, and very aromatically pleasing.
Oils with a high ester content are used for their balancing and antispasmodic effects. Geranium, Helichrysum, Lavender, Clary Sage, Rosemary (verbone) as well as Bay Laurel and Cardamom are known for their high ester content.
Oils with a high ester content are used for their balancing and antispasmodic effects. Geranium, Helichrysum, Lavender, Clary Sage, Rosemary (verbone) as well as Bay Laurel and Cardamom are known for their high ester content.
7/27/09
There is No Isolated Active Ingredient
Essential oils possess Emergent Properties of whole organisms and interact with humans in ways not available to synthetic drugs, which do not share with us common evolutionary development.
In biological terms, when individual components in an environment come together to create distinct collective and interactive properties and functions (cells, organs) the results are called Emergent Properties (complete organisms). The systems they form are irreducible, since they cannot be fully comprehended simply by knowing the components of the lower levels. For example, it has been said that consciousness is an emergent property of the brain.
Genuine and authentic essential oils work synergistically on the whole organism on all planes of consciousness: material, vital, mental, psychosocial and spiritual. The large number (sometimes hundreds) of constituents exert a combined effect on human physiology which is practically impossible to access with a synthetic, isolated active ingredient. The idea of one active ingredient belongs to the reductionist pharmacology of allopathic medicine.
In biological terms, when individual components in an environment come together to create distinct collective and interactive properties and functions (cells, organs) the results are called Emergent Properties (complete organisms). The systems they form are irreducible, since they cannot be fully comprehended simply by knowing the components of the lower levels. For example, it has been said that consciousness is an emergent property of the brain.
Genuine and authentic essential oils work synergistically on the whole organism on all planes of consciousness: material, vital, mental, psychosocial and spiritual. The large number (sometimes hundreds) of constituents exert a combined effect on human physiology which is practically impossible to access with a synthetic, isolated active ingredient. The idea of one active ingredient belongs to the reductionist pharmacology of allopathic medicine.
7/24/09
How Much Oil To Use
When I made a face lotion for my mom, she was using way too much. I blame the '50s idealization of the "more you use the better." There is a big difference between what is manufactured and what essentials oils are. The molecules of essential oils are so small, they can easily penetrate the skin and some can even pass the blood to brain barrier. Because of this concentrated power, it is the antithesis of most products. A little bit goes a very long way.
Instead of a palm full of oil, I coached my mom to use only a few drops, like a nickel-size worth. Leaving heavy oil on the face harms more than heals because the excess oil actually drags down the skin. You don't want your face to be shiny with oil, just glowy from absorption.
Instead of a palm full of oil, I coached my mom to use only a few drops, like a nickel-size worth. Leaving heavy oil on the face harms more than heals because the excess oil actually drags down the skin. You don't want your face to be shiny with oil, just glowy from absorption.
Bliss Out
My first teacher in aromatherapy was a man I met in Portland. He was playing guitar at a campfire outside of town and called himself Bhima. Ends up he had a shop selling essential oils in Northwest Portland and his real name is Carleton, but got his name from spending 12 years in a commune.
Bhima/Carleton taught me that smelling essential oils can get you real "blissed out." I used to joke about this hippy ideal, but experience has proved it fundamental truth. Last night, I put Marc's allergy treatment on his feet, then Cardamon on his belly, MQV on his chest and finished with Ylang Ylang on his throat and ears. He sat there staring for a few minutes with a lazy smile and all he could muster was "blissed out."
Then he jumped up and played his bass guitar for an hour. He said he felt warmly energized with a very clear lucidity. I think we must remember that all drugs (including pharmaceuticals) come from plants and that essential oils do their work naturally while leaving the body free of toxins. And the nature of healing is often psychological. We describe health as feeling good. Euphoria is not a bad side effect.
Bhima/Carleton taught me that smelling essential oils can get you real "blissed out." I used to joke about this hippy ideal, but experience has proved it fundamental truth. Last night, I put Marc's allergy treatment on his feet, then Cardamon on his belly, MQV on his chest and finished with Ylang Ylang on his throat and ears. He sat there staring for a few minutes with a lazy smile and all he could muster was "blissed out."
Then he jumped up and played his bass guitar for an hour. He said he felt warmly energized with a very clear lucidity. I think we must remember that all drugs (including pharmaceuticals) come from plants and that essential oils do their work naturally while leaving the body free of toxins. And the nature of healing is often psychological. We describe health as feeling good. Euphoria is not a bad side effect.
7/23/09
Why Unadulterated Essential Oils Are Best
Unadulterated essential oils possess not only their active ingredients, but also secondary plant metabolites and trace compounds which aid in the healing properties. Different botantical regions offer different environmental conditions: soil, climate, altitude are among the factors that affect the plant and its metabolic constituents. Even the way the plant is harvested and distilled can affect the qualities of the oil.
These factors attribute to oils variations or “chemotypes.” Rosemary is a good example of the variety of chemical compositions. Rosemary has three types. Rosemary camphor is excellent for muscle cramps while Rosemary cineole type is suited for catarrhal (lots o' mucus) conditions and as a component in diffusor blends. Rosemary verbone's regenerating qualities make it indispensable for skin care.
These factors attribute to oils variations or “chemotypes.” Rosemary is a good example of the variety of chemical compositions. Rosemary has three types. Rosemary camphor is excellent for muscle cramps while Rosemary cineole type is suited for catarrhal (lots o' mucus) conditions and as a component in diffusor blends. Rosemary verbone's regenerating qualities make it indispensable for skin care.
7/22/09
After Party: The Liver
For the after of any party, you need to consider your liver. The liver is the body's literal filter of toxins. If you're feeling sluggish after festivities, these oils will help.
The liver stimulating sesquiterpene alcohols found in Carrot Seed Oil and Greenland Moss can be administered with syrup or a capsule and taken with food. Also Peppermint and Thyme can be taken orally, as well as Lavender, which normalizes blood sugar output by the liver. One or two drops taken fifteen minutes before a meal reduces appetite.
The liver stimulating sesquiterpene alcohols found in Carrot Seed Oil and Greenland Moss can be administered with syrup or a capsule and taken with food. Also Peppermint and Thyme can be taken orally, as well as Lavender, which normalizes blood sugar output by the liver. One or two drops taken fifteen minutes before a meal reduces appetite.
7/21/09
Allergy Treatment
I am trying a long term allergy treatment on Marc. Every Spring, he has horrible allergies from blooming grasses and sneezes, literally, for minutes at a time while his eyes water uncontrollably. Nothing seems to alleviate his suffering during the peak, so I'm giving him a nightly oil on his feet starting now so that by Spring, he will retrain the way his body responds.
That is the plan. In the meantime, the oil has a secondary effect of making him more energetic and even giggly. Good times.
2 Drops Tanneceum Annuum (Morrocan Chamomile)
15 Drops Lavender (Fine)
Put the mixture in the palm, slightly mixing it, then rub on feet and put on socks.
UPDATE:
After only initial prodding, this is now his daily routine and he loves it. So far, he is a lot less sneezy. I am grateful for this improvement as he can sneeze 7 or 8 times in a row, in a painful pitch frequency that makes me plug my ears.
That is the plan. In the meantime, the oil has a secondary effect of making him more energetic and even giggly. Good times.
2 Drops Tanneceum Annuum (Morrocan Chamomile)
15 Drops Lavender (Fine)
Put the mixture in the palm, slightly mixing it, then rub on feet and put on socks.
UPDATE:
After only initial prodding, this is now his daily routine and he loves it. So far, he is a lot less sneezy. I am grateful for this improvement as he can sneeze 7 or 8 times in a row, in a painful pitch frequency that makes me plug my ears.
Cypress
When a sore throat flares, I reach for Cypress oil. Not only does it numb the pain, but it can prevent a more acute infection like bronchitis.
Take one drop and allow it to linger in the back of the mouth, so the oil can penetrate the membranes of the mouth and throat. Application should be frequent at first, approximately every 15 minutes (or as needed), with later intervals more widely spaced.
Some people find Cypress irritating. If that's the case, try substituting Thyme linalool or Thyme thujanol.
Take one drop and allow it to linger in the back of the mouth, so the oil can penetrate the membranes of the mouth and throat. Application should be frequent at first, approximately every 15 minutes (or as needed), with later intervals more widely spaced.
Some people find Cypress irritating. If that's the case, try substituting Thyme linalool or Thyme thujanol.
German Chamomile
German chamomile oil contains chamazulene, which has strong anti-inflammatory effects, while Roman chamomile oil is primarily an antispasmodic. Another difference is Bisabolol, a natural sesquiterpene alcohol, which is the strongest anti-inflammatory substance in German chamomile. The effect of this alcohol is even stronger than chamazulene and is also anti-allergenic and stimulates the liver and glandular secretions. German Chamomile’s powerful anti-inflammatory and antiphlogistic effects are complemented by its ability to detoxify endotoxins produced by pathogenic bacteria during infectious processes. German Chamomile is most effective for burns, any kind of inflammation and during the acute stage of infections.
How You Can Bypass The Liver Through The Feet
Massaging oils into the feet prevents immediate absorption into the liver. Instead of being processed by the liver, the oils reach the lower bronchial capillaries via the circulator system and the entire organism unprocessed. Bronchial conditions respond well to this treatment, as do allergies and it is the best method for children.
7/20/09
Hydrosols
One of my questions from my International Aromatherapy Certificate test was about hydrosols.
Hydrosols look like watered-down versions of essential oils. They are more complex than you think.
What are hydrosols? Do they contain more terpene hydrocarbon or terpene alcohol components and why?
Hydrosols are more than the byproduct of the distilling process. They are very similar in composition to their parent essential oils but are milder and less irritating. Due to this gentler quality and the fact that terpene alcohol components are hydrophilic (water-loving and so would remain in the hydrosol), hydrosols contain more terpene alcohol than terpene hydrocarbons components.
Hydrosols can help in alleviating allergies (Myrtle) and can be used spritzed over the face as an instant relaxant (Lavender) or as an inexpensive way to experience expensive oils (Rose). I use Rose Hydrosol before I put on my face lotion, which makes the oils absorb faster.
Hydrosols look like watered-down versions of essential oils. They are more complex than you think.
What are hydrosols? Do they contain more terpene hydrocarbon or terpene alcohol components and why?
Hydrosols are more than the byproduct of the distilling process. They are very similar in composition to their parent essential oils but are milder and less irritating. Due to this gentler quality and the fact that terpene alcohol components are hydrophilic (water-loving and so would remain in the hydrosol), hydrosols contain more terpene alcohol than terpene hydrocarbons components.
Hydrosols can help in alleviating allergies (Myrtle) and can be used spritzed over the face as an instant relaxant (Lavender) or as an inexpensive way to experience expensive oils (Rose). I use Rose Hydrosol before I put on my face lotion, which makes the oils absorb faster.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
