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Post by Sidhe Ravenwitch on May 19, 2003 14:18:51 GMT -5
Post your Aromatherapy Recipes or Tips here.
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Post by jadedsage on May 25, 2003 13:19:31 GMT -5
I've a collection of Aromatherapy recipies that I can post from. They tell about the oils involved, with several different uses and some little history as well. They aren't my own however. I'm still working on my own things. Let me know if anyone is interested...
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Post by Sidhe Ravenwitch on May 25, 2003 15:54:23 GMT -5
Sounds awesome Jadedsage, post away....
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Post by jadedsage on May 25, 2003 16:32:26 GMT -5
Thyme Oil ---
The curative powers of this herb have been valued since the middle ages. It is used successfully for skin and circulatory disorders as well as for antiseptic and tonic.
The word Thyme comes from the Greek and means "to make a burn offering". One if its main components, thymol, strengthens the immune system and has a strong antibacterial effect. Is is also believed to loosen mucus and promote expectoration, the aroma, when inhaled in the proper amounts and dilutions, helps to subdue infections in the respiratory tract. It also works through skin absorbtion, though many of the oils are not safe, and should not be taken so.
To help protect the respiratory tract Use the following in a difuser when you feel a cold coming on. It should help you, as well as help cleanse the air of disease-causing germs.
5 drops of Thyme oil 3 drops Eucalyptus oil 3 drops of Lemon oil
For cold relief: immersion bath with thyme oil can help clear your respiratory tract and will help sooth your cough. Add 3-4 tablesgirl thingys of whipping cream and 10 drops of thyme oil to the bathwater....rest for at least an hour after the bath.
For Flu season: Use the essential oil in a room difuser when you come down with the flu. Because of it's antiviral properites it can help cleanse the air.
To reenergize yourself: 5 drops of thyme oil 7 drops bergamot oil 3-4 tablesgirl thingys whipping cream (or other base such as sweet almond oil or sea salt)
Mix well and add to your bath to stimulate the circulatory system. It's best not to use this just before bedtime(hehehe)
To disinfect the skin: 15 drops of thyme oil 1/3 cup of liquid soap or shower gel.
Mix the oil very thoroughly with the soap to avoid any skin irritation.
Protect yourself against flus and viruses: either inhale the oil or have it massaged into your skin. Begin treatments in autumn to help protect yourself during the colder months and continue them for one month.
****As with any essential oils, please use with extreem caution. Thyme oil should NEVER be ingested. And it is best to consult an aromatherapist if you have any questions****
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Post by Sidhe Ravenwitch on May 25, 2003 16:36:53 GMT -5
awesome, must try this one. ;D
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Post by jadedsage on May 25, 2003 16:57:07 GMT -5
Lavender Oil ---- Now cultivated primarily in Provence, in the south of France, it was native to the Mediterranean. it grows in open fields and on mountain slopes, and gives off an intense, spicy aroma when it blooms. Though the flowers themselves are used frequently in "working", the most potent form is the oil. It contains more than 200 compounds that are active against fungi, viruses and other microbes. It is also valued for its ability to balance ones emotions. In people suffering from nervous exhaustion it can restore vitality. Though it is also used as a relaxent on those who have trouble sleeping or are agitated.
To purify indoor air:
4 drops Lavender oil 2 drops bergamot oil 2 drops lemon oil
Place this mixture in a diffuser to help freshen the air. Its compounds will have a powerful cleansing effect on the air, as well as emitting a scent that is uplifting to the mind, body and spirit.
For skin irritations: Lavender water promotes excellent circulation in the skin and prevents infections of the sebacious glands.
For a Facial lotion:
3 drops of lavender oil 1 quart of distilled water
Dab on daily.
For Insomnia: Put a few drops of lavender oil on an aromatherapy stone (can be found in most herbal stores) and put in your bedroom. It's calming properties will help you sleep soundly through the night.
For Nerve Pain:
10 drops lavender oil 2 tablesgirl thingys of St John's-wort oil and gently run it into the affected area for pain relief. It will help reduce inflamation due to neuralgia as well.
For sunburn relief:
10 drops of lavender oil 4 ounces of water.
Store this liquid in a plastic spray bottle and take it with you to the beach, or keep it with you in the garden to spritz on any sunburned skin as needed.
Lavender oil is one of the few essential oils that is safe to use "neat" (undiluted) directly on the skin. Keep a small bottle in your kitchen cabinet to treat first-degree burns. One or two drops directly on the burn will relieve pain and reduce the risk of blisters.
Middle Ear infections can also be treated with lavender oil. Saturate a cotten ball with olive oil, and put 5 drops of lavender oil. Place this on the outer part of the affected ear to relieve the pain and reduce the risk of inflamation that comes with earaches.
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Post by SummerBoi on Jun 16, 2003 12:40:15 GMT -5
very impressive everyone, very impressive
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Post by jadedsage on Jun 16, 2003 21:27:33 GMT -5
Geranium Oil -- The fresh, almost rosy, and citrusy scent is known to stimulate the senses. It renews your energy when you are exhausted, and is also known to calm you when you are angry and irritable. It helps to balance the hormones, which makes it excellent for women who are troubled by menopausal symptoms. It's cleansing and antiseptic properties have proved it to be valuable in healing wounds and fighting infections. Modern uses find it in many cosmetic lotions as it soothes irritated skin, and helps control acne. It is an excellent blending oil for most any other essential oil. For instance lemon, grapefruit, lavender, rosemary, jasmine, bergamot and ginger to name a few.
Insect Repellent -- Geranium Oil is also used frequently as a an insect repellent. It is known to work well against mosquitos.
5 drops geranium oil 3 drops clove oil
Burn this in a room diffuser, and you should enjoy a mosquito free evening.
The oil can also be effective in treating agravated and/or swollen insect bites. We all know that although witchhazel works, it is only so effective. Combine 2 drops of geranium essential oil and 1 ounce of witchhazel. Dabbing this solution on the effected area with a cotten swab or cotten ball will help to reduce the swelling and minimize the itching as well.
As an anitinflamatory -- To reduce swelling in the legs, rub them with a mixture of the following:
3 tablesgirl thingys sweet-almond oil 8 drops of geranium oil 5 drops of lemon oil.
After application, elevate your legs for approx. 30 minutes. The oils unblock the lymph nodes within your legs and helps to prevent edema.
To help fade scars -- 5 drops of geranium oil 3 drops of neroli oil 3 tablesgirl thingys of oderless, enriched skin cream.
Massaging this onto the effected scarred tissue to keep it supple. (this is what promotes scar damage healing)
Bathing with Geranium oil is helpful in providing relief for menstrual pain and cramps.
6 drops of geranium oil 3 drops of jasmine oil 2 drops of clary-sage oil 1 1/2 cups of whole milk
Pour this into your bathwater, soak in the tub for at least 30 minutes or more if time permits for the full effect of the mixture.
Geranium is also good for affecting your emotions. It can be used to give you optimism when you are feeling worn out or apathetic.
3 drops geranium oil 3 drops bergamot oil
Evaporate this mixture in a diffuser when needed.
To enliven you senses:
2 drops of geranium oil 2 drops of rosemary oil
Use this in a diffuser, or add some to a tissue to keep in your purse when you travel. It will clear your mind, enliven your senses, and help you organize your thoughts.
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Post by jadedsage on Jul 16, 2003 21:32:33 GMT -5
Eucalyptus Oil -
The medicinal properties of this oil were most likely discovered by Aborigines first. This is assumed due to the fact that this is where the tree originates from. The Aborigines used the oil as remedy for skin irritations and for fevers. Modern uses include these, as well as for other conditions such as colds and other respiratory conditions. It is a wonderful decongestant and is excellent when used for germicidal and antibacterial effects.
For Mental Fatigue - 4 drops eucalyptus oil 2 drops lemon oil
Eucalyptus essential oil stimulates the nervous system and helps to promote concentration. When combined with lemon oil, it is an excellent restorative to the psyche when affected with mental exhaustion and listlessness.
For sense of well being - add a few drops of eucalyptus oil to a massage oil to produce a cooling effect on both mind and body. Apply to pulse points.
To Supress coughs - make a chest compress with eucalyptus and massage oils to loosen phlegm and improve lung functions.
To improve your Sauna - add three drops of the oil to a ladle of water and pour over the stones.
For wounds - adding a few drops of the oil to bandages before applying them to wounds makes the most of the germacidle effects of the oil. It can help to heal burns, ulcers (external) insect bites and stings.
2 oz of sweet almond or grapeseed oil 10 - 15 drops of eucalyptus oil
Masage this mixture into your muscles to relieve aches.
10 drops of eucalyptus oil mixed with your shampoo and massaged into your scalp will work to rid you of dandruf. Massage into scalp and wait a few minutes before rinsing.
Too much eucalyptus oil can potentially irritate the skin, so be sure to use the exact amounts specified in any recipies you find. If combined with massage oils or other carrier oils, the risk of irritation is greatly reduced. Be certain to keep the oil away from children under the age of 6 for safety reasons.
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Post by jadedsage on Aug 18, 2003 21:35:31 GMT -5
Rosemary Oil - For Energy and Mental Clarity and stimulation of the central nervous system.
This popular herb is native to the Mediteranian, however, it is widely cultivated throughout the world. Some cities use it as the filler in the center dividers of their multi-lane roads, as their strong, slightly spicy scent, can help to mask some of the "street smell", as well as for its rapid cover growth and blossoms for asthetic pleasure.
It has long been favored for its stimulating and medicinal effects. It can be used as a memory enhancer, as many ancient healers found.
Used in bath and body soaps, shampoos and bath salts, this is a highly used oil much in demand for aromatherapy uses.
Theraputic uses:
Strong stimulating and anti-inflamatory effects. Helps to activate circulation and the nervous system. Due to these effects, it has been proven helpful for the relief of low blood pressure, lack of appetite, digestive complaints, exhaustion, muscle pain, heart trouble, hair loss, and circulatory disorders.
For General Well being-- Because rosemary oil has a strong warming effect, a body oil containing it retains heat. Used after a bath to warm the body and engergize the circulatory system.
For Cold feet - mix 9 drops of the essential oil in warm water of a foot bath. Mix well so that the oil dispurses throughout. Quick and longlasting results.
For Hair Loss - Add 2 drops of rosemary oil to your shampoo. The oil will stimulate circulation to the scalp, and improving the nutrient levels as well. The results will be healthy and shiny hair.
For Cellulite - Add 10 drops of rosemary oil with 2 - 3 tablesgirl thingys whipping cream or base oil as an emulsifier, and add to bathwater. While bathing, massage the skin with a loofa or other product to stimulate circulation. This will be helpful in removing water from tissue and improving your circulation, in turn this diminishes the appearance of cellulite.
Energizing bath - 3 drops of rosemary essential oil, 3 drops of lemon essential oil, 3 drops of eucalyptus essential oil directly to warm bath water. Swirl the water until oils are mixed.
Clear Toxins - Mix 4 drops of rosemary oil with 2 cups of warm water. Moisten hand towel with the mixture. To detoxify the body, apply the compress to the liver area; cover with a wool cloth.
**Note**
Do not burn Rosemary Oil in your diffuser for more than 4 hours a day. Longer use could over stimulate the nerves in the nose, resulting in a painful headache***Pregnant women should not use the herb as either essential oil or tea as it could cause premature labor***Asthma sufferers may be bothered by the strength of the scent***The active ingredients can cause epiliptic seizures and can cause skin irritations if not diluted properly.***
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Post by jadedsage on Aug 18, 2003 21:57:31 GMT -5
Peppermint Oil
As with many of the essential oils, this can be used to combat fatigue, improve a person's concentration and focus. It is refreshing to mind, body and spirit.
This scent triggers the hippocampus, part of the brain linked to memory, thus affecting the strength of concentration or focus. It also relieves symtoms of nausea and dizziness.
As a healing oil, peppermint is both an antiseptic and an anesthetic because of its high proportion of menthol. When inhaled, it is extreemly effective for fighting respiratory infections such as bronchitis and sinusitus. Often used in lotions and creams, when applied to the skin, the oil sooths and cools.
8 drops of peppermint oil 5 drops of lemon oil Mixed together these two oils and burn in aromatic lamp to combat mental fatigue.
5 drops of peppermint oil 2 cups of warm water. Lay a small cloth dampened with the mixture across your nose and over your cheekbones. Breath deeply, relax and keep your eyes closed. This is a good compress to relieve symptoms of a sinus infections.
8 drops of peppermint oil 1 tablesgirl thingy of vinegar 1 quart of cool water Cold Packs To reduce a fever. Soak 2 cold packs in the mixture. Wring them out and place them on the calves of your legs. Replace as often as necessary until fever is reduced.
For Motion sickness - Mix a few drops of peppermint oil into a cloth. Hold the cloth in front of your nose and mouth for a few minutes or until the nausea subsides.
For Headaches - Mix a base oil, (sweet almond oil, or jojoba oil) with peppermint oil and rub a few drops on your forhead and the nape of your neck. This can be of use for quick relief of both headaches and migraines.
For Fresh breath - Peppermint oil, because of its antiseptic properties is an excellent alternative to mouth washes. It inhibits infection and prevents cavities and gum disease, while its also excellent for fighting bad breath.
**NOTE**
Do not treat children with peppermint oil, as the high content of menthol can adversly irritate sensitive mucosa. *** If you have chills, avoid using peppermint due to its extreem cooling properties. *** Keep your eyes tightly shut when inhaling peppermint oil and the vapors can irritate them. *** Pregnant and nursing women should avoid using the oil altogether ***
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Post by jadedsage on Sept 29, 2003 22:30:28 GMT -5
Bergamot
A native of the Canary Islands, it was transported in the 14th & 15th century to Italy where it has been widely cultivated since then. The light green color and slightly sweet, lemon-orange scent is derived from the peeling of the skin from the fruit. It is the most commonly used oil in aromatherapy and other medicinal uses. Its scent is refreshing - it lifts the spirit, relaxes frayed nerves. It can help to diminish anxiety, fear and anger. It also has medicinal properties as well, possesing antiseptic and antibacterial properties used often today. Bergamot and Lime both are credited with the ability to combat fatigue due to stress, as well as exhaustion and depression. Combining the two of these essential oils makes for an excellent energy booster. 8 to 10 drops of Bergamot Oil 5 drops of Lime Oil Blend together and burn in a diffuser or aromatherapy lamp Bergamot Oil is also useful as a mosquito repellant - Place 2 drops of the oil on a cotton ball and place it in your pocket. Or burn in a diffuser or aromatherapy lamp Bergamot's antiseptic and antibacterial properties make it one of the best essential oils for treating skin problems. Using the oil in a steam bath can be extreemly effective in treating stress induced irritations. 3 drops of Bergamot Oil added to large bowl of steaming water Drape a towel over your head and shoulderns and hold your face over the bowl Breath evenly and deeply for 10 - 15 minutes.
DO NOT USE STEAM BATH IF YOU HAVE ANY BROKEN FACIAL CAPILLARIES. For tension headache relief, dilute bergamot oil with a carrier oil and rub it into your temples or the back of your neck. Minimal amount needed. For fever reduction- a compress with bergamot oil is cooling and effective. 5 drops of Bergamot Oil in 1 quart of cold water. Soak cotton towels in it. Wring out the towels and wrap them around your calves. Cover the towels with another towel to hold them in place. Resoak and reapply until fever subsides Like many citrus-based oils, this oil is considered to be phototoxic. When using, avoid exposing yourself to direct sunlight for at least 6 hours following application. Exposure may lead to skin discoloration, blistering or severe burning.
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Post by jadedsage on Oct 4, 2003 16:15:04 GMT -5
Cinnamon Oil
One of the most commonly used spices of today, cinnamon oil is also known for its antiviral properties. The scent of cinnamon promotes warmth and security when used. The oil is derived from both the bark, and the leaves of the plant, and each have their own purposes and uses.
**The oil from the bark is extremely potent, and can irritate the skin, and while the oil from the leaves, is slightly more delicate, it also can be an irritant. Use caution when handling this oil. To avoid skin irritations, blend this oil with a fatty carrier oil, such as olive oil, and be certain to discontinue use immediately at the first signs of irritation**
Cinnamon Oil has been an essential cooking spice of the Far and Middle East for centuries, and was first used medicinally in Ancient Egypt. It was found that when used as a beauty aid, the oil from the leaves is astringent, antiseptic and soothingly warm. The Bark oil is suitable for use in a diffuser. Its warm, spicy scent lends you strength and arouses your senses. The leaf oil, if used topically, warms the skin and may help to alleviate muscle aches due to cold symptoms.
For Strength: 4 drops of cinnamon oil (from leaves or bark) 2 drops of sandalwood oil 2 drops of orange oil use this blend in a diffuser to sooth the spirit, calm anxieties, and strengthen self confidence, and as comfort in times of loss
To Combat Chills A warm bath with cinnamon leaf, ginger and juniper oils may help to dispel the chills associated with colds and flu. One drop each in a full bath, mixed well, should be enough.
Other possible applications are: Room Spray 2 oz of vodka or rubbing alcohol (I find the vodka to work better) 3 drops of cinnamon oil (leaf or bark) 5 drops of bergamot oil 2 oz of water place all ingredients into a spritzer and shake well, then spray the room. This will help eliminate stale or musty odors from a room. The same mix can be used in a diffuser for the same effect.
Foot Bath 2 gallons warm water in a deep tub 1 drop cinnamon oil (from the leaf as it will be in direct contact with your skin) 2 drops of rosemary oil 2 drops of juniper oil 1 tsp of vodka to help diffuse the oils mix well and submerge your feet
**Cinnamon Oil should only be used sparingly as a topical application. Remember that even diluted oil can irritate the skin. The Bark Oil is ONLY suitable for use in a diffuser or simmer-pot. Never use more than three drops at a time, as it may cause headaches. Wash your hands thoroughly after every use.**
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Post by jadedsage on Oct 4, 2003 16:20:27 GMT -5
Mandarin Oil
As with Neroli, Mandarin helps to improve mood and lessen anxiety. It promotes peace, love, and emotional openness. It is considered to be a Solar oil, or herb if you are using the flowers. It is safe for use by children, and pregnant women, as well as for older adults. It is added to cleaning products, bathwater, or massage oils, and is effective in all three.
Like Neroli again, it is an antiseptic, and contains antispasmodic properties, and can be useful in defending against depression , and soothing muscle cramps. The difference between the two being that Mandarin oil is a much safer oil to use, and is known to be much gentler.
That is not to say that common sense and caution should not be used. As with any citrus based essential oil, exposure to sunlight after use, and that includes ULTRA VIOLET radiation, within at least 6 hours must be avoided. Serious skin damage can occur. Skin that has been treated with Mandarin oil can develop stubborn brown spots if exposed to the sun. Also, Mandarin oil has a slightly yellowed hue, and has been known to leave stains or residue when used in a diffuser or simmer pot. I recommend a thorough cleaning with soap and water after use.
For Mental Strain: 5 drops of Mandarin Oil 3 drops of Bergamot Oil Put this mixture in your diffuser or simmer pot to help relieve exhaustion and stress. This makes it a wonderful mix to use at home or at work if you are able.
For Muscle Cramps: 10 drops of Mandarin oil 5 drops of Geranium oil 1 cup of milk Add the mixture to a warm bath to relieve strained muscles.
Skin purifier: 15 drops of Mandarin oil ½ cup face lotion (non-scented) Apply the lotion twice daily after washing. The astringent quality of the oil will help to purify the skin.
Room Spritzer: ½ cup spring or filtered water 10 drops Mandarin oil 5 drops Lavender oil 2 drops Clary-Sage oil 1 spritzer bottle Spray mixture around the room to lighten your mood, and give light refreshing scent to the air, or on your drapes for a longer lasting effect. Be sure to avoid spraying on your woodwork, and shake the bottle while spraying to keep the mix “fresh”.
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Post by jadedsage on Oct 4, 2003 16:25:09 GMT -5
Neroli Oil
Neroli Oil, though obtained from variety of orange tree, is not to be confused with Mandarin or Orange Oil. This oil is taken from the flowers of the bitter orange tree (Citrus Aurantium), while the Mandarin and Orange oils are taken from the skins.
Neroli Oil is one of the strongest stress relieving oils. It’s associated with joy, happiness, overcoming emotional blockages, and release of physical tension, depressions and anxiety. Medicinally, it carries an antiseptic, and antispasmodic effect, and is thought to strengthen the heart. The oil eases stress, and agitation, and is known to reduce blood pressure. The components of the oil sooth dry skin, thus making this a good oil to use in daily skin care regimens, and its antispasmodic properties relieve migraines and headaches.
**Neroli Oil should never be taken internally unless under the supervision of an aroma therapist or a doctor**
For Depression: 2 drops Neroli 4 drops Bergamot use mixture in a diffuser for well being of mind and soul.
For Headaches: 1 drop of Neroli oil warmed in the palm of your hand. Inhale the vapors to help with tension headaches For Relaxing Sleep: 1 small pillow orange blossoms rose petals 3 to 5 drops of Neroli Oil 3 to 5 drops of Rose Oil Fill the pillow with the orange blossoms and rose petals. Add drops of oils based on pillow size. Keep near your head to sleep.
Use this oil before exams, interviews, travel….whatever stresses you, to calm the mind and improve your mood.
For PMS: 7 drops of Neroli Oil 3 tablesgirl thingys of honey. Mix these and add them to a full bath of warm to hot water. Take a bath with this mixture 7 days before your cycle begins. The components in the oil will help relax your muscles and serve to make you feel pampered, relaxed and soothed. Also the oil is great for dry skin, so bathing in it can be beneficial that way as well.
Neroli Oil is known to stimulate cell growth, so it is very useful as a component of massage therapy.
To Treat Scar Tissue: 8 drops of Neroli Oil ¼ cup cream mix and massage into affected area of the skin daily for 3 to 4 weeks.
To Relax Muscles: 3 drops Neroli 2 drops Lavender 2 drops Sandalwood ½ cup of cold-pressed Sunflower Mix well and apply during massage
For Broken Blood Vessels: 5 drops of Neroli 1/8 cup of an oil based cream. Mix well and massage into affected area daily. It may also serve to protect against future damage.
***While the fruit of the bitter orange tree from which the Neroli oil is derived does have an essential oil that is phototoxic, the Neroli oil comes from the flower and is considered, therefore, not to be phototoxic. However, caution and common sense are still to be exercised when combining the use of this, or any other essential oil, and spending time in the sun. As with any essential oil, if you have any doubt, consult an aromatherapis
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