If you are like most people, you have probably at least heard of eucalyptus. You don’t have to live in Australia to know that this tree produces bark and leaves that are very beneficial to both the koalas living in them and to humans, too!
Eucalyptus has natural healing affects that you just can’t get with many man-made remedies. In fact, this plant is just as effective to ward off colds and congestion as the expensive stuff you buy in your pharmacy.
Why does eucalyptus work so well? Like many plant materials, it has healing properties all of its own. You might be surprised to learn that the leaves from this tree are very similar to the rubs and creams you can buy for your chest when you have a cold.
It smells very similar, too. It can help fight off the symptoms you get when you have the cold and flu. Plus, it is natural and safe to use around children.
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Filed under: Aromatherapy, Contagious Diseases, Detox, Immunity, Infection, Respiratory Conditions by Dee
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Reflexology, also called zone therapy, comes under the heading of alternative medicine. It involves the practice of massaging, squeezing or pushing parts of the feet, hands, body or in the ears with the goals of affecting other parts of the body.
Interestingly, although reflexology has been classified as an alternative medicine approach, there is no consensus among practitioners (reflexologist) on how the practice is supposed to work.
There does appear to be a unifying theme or idea that areas of the feet and hands correspond to different areas of the body. The theory is that by manipulating these areas the reflexologist can make significant changes in a specific organ system or in an individual’s overall health.
The ideas behind reflexology are not new. It was practiced in the Egyptian culture as early as 2330 B.C. the practice, as we know it today, was first researched and developed by Eunice Ingham. Her first work was published in 1938 and since 1942 workshops have been constructed around the world.
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Filed under: Alternative Therapies, Detox, Immunity, Infection, Herbal Recipes, Reflexology, Scented Baths by Dee
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When choosing essential oils and other aromatherapy products, you know that you will have to seek out good quality items. A poorly made essential oil will not give you the results you are looking for. Besides looking for top quality oils, another item you will want to carefully consider are the carrier oils that you will use.
Carrier oils are very important to you and your essential oils. Carrier oils will help dilute your essential oils and make them usable for your body. You must remember that undiluted essential oils are very strong and they can burn and irritate your skin if not diluted.
Carrier oils will also help your essential oils last longer and this is a good thing. When you purchase bottles of essential oils, you will notice that you will only get a very small amount. Usually only two or three drops is all you need to use for each use.
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Are you ready to go out and shop for your favorite scented essential oils? Before you head out the door, make sure you know how to shop. Yes, there is a right and a wrong way to shop for essential oils. Don’t get fooled into thinking that all oils labeled ‘essential’ oils are the same. They are not and if you don’t shop wisely, you may end up with an inferior essential oil. Here are some handy tips to make sure you know what you buy before you spend your hard-earned cash.
See the difference: When shopping for essential oils, remember that not all oils are made, or labeled equally. Perfume oils are not the same as essential oils. Perfume oil will get you a cheaper, inferior version of an essential oil. It is no better than scented water and will give you no therapeutic benefits at all. They might smell nice, but they won’t last long and won’t help you if you are interested in aromatherapy.
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Filed under: Aromatherapy by Dee
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Peppermint is a wonderful plant. It is very versatile, smells great and can be used for many purposes. Kids and adults like love peppermint candies all times of the year, especially during the holidays. You can also use peppermint in aromatherapy for medicinal purposes. In fact, studies show that peppermint can actually give your mind a boost. When you are feeling a mid-day slump, pop a peppermint in your mouth or lit a peppermint scented candle and you will be ready to face the world.
Studies suggest that peppermint can be used for medicinal reasons as well. It is soothing to the throat when you are suffering from upper respiratory ailments and can stop a cold dead in its tracks. Plus, peppermint is safe for children, too. You can actually grow peppermint in your garden and use the leaves to spice up your recipes and drinks, too. You simply cannot go wrong with letting peppermint spice up your life a little.
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Using essential oils is a great way to relax and feel good. You can invigorate your mind and your body with a few of your favorite oils. However, there are some important safety rules you should know before you start using any essential oils. The following are important safety tips that will ensure that you are using essential oils with the proper care.
Never apply any essential oil to your bare skin: This is a very important rule for anyone interested in using essential oils. If you put undiluted oils on your skin, it will cause burning and irritation. While essential oils can certainly help you when used correctly, it can cause plenty of problems when used incorrectly. Instead of putting it on your skin undiluted, you will want to get some good carrier oil and mix it in the right amount. This will ensure that you are using it on your skin safely.
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Filed under: Aromatherapy by Dee
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It is okay to be a “newbie†in the world of aromatherapy. There are many people who have never tried it before because they just don’t know where to start, or they are clouded by common myths and misconceptions.
The reality of it is that using essential oils and aromatherapy can help alleviate stress and tension in almost anyone—and it is easy, too. If you do not fully understand the facts about aromatherapy, here are some common misconceptions and the truths.
Aromatherapy is only for people who shun medicine and opt for holistic treatment. The truth: while many people who believe in holistic and natural healing do, in fact, use aromatherapy, just as many people use it who do use traditional medicine. In fact, essential oils are often complimentary to traditional medicines and medical treatment.
You can only use essential oils if they are warmed. Truth: While it is true that essential oils do have a stronger aroma when warm, you can still get their effect when they are not. In fact, you should never heat essential oils over an open flame because it is flammable. You should always follow the direction on any diffuser that you heat and make sure it is supervised at all times.
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If you need feel like you are drooping and need to perk up your brain, then forget the coffee and soda, try a little aromatherapy. Aromatherapy works great for boosting the brain the natural way. You don’t have to rely on sugar, caffeine or other alternatives. You can go the natural way with some great essential oils.
What are essential oils? If you have never dabbled in aromatherapy and do not know a lot about essential oils, then it is time you learn. Essential oils are derived from natural plants. The bark, leaves and petals are pressed, or steamed to get the oils. You then purchase the essential oils in very small bottles and use them for aromatherapy, first aid or even in and around your home. Essential oils are quite useful and they have a wide range of purpose—one being to help stimulate your mind the natural way!
When you think about the times you are feeling the most tired and worn out, a lot of times you think about reaching for some sugary snack, a cupful full of caffeine or you wish you could catch a quick nap. Naps are always good, but if you are working or busy, you may not have the time.
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Filed under: Aromatherapy, Health & Vitality, Memory, Alertness by Dee
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There are so many uses for essential oils in your everyday life. If you have never considered using these oils, then what are you waiting for? Essential oils have been used for centuries and many of these can not only help improve your body, but can help give you a mental boost as well. In fact, there are several essential oils that you should know if you want to improve your state of mind.
Have anxiety? How many of us have suffered from anxiety a least a couple of times in our lives? Some people certainly have more anxiety than others and those who don’t have it very often, will feel it at least here and there. Essential oils can calm your anxiety and help you get ready to face your fears or problems without having to take medications that are so often prescribed.
Of course, you must not allow severe anxiety out of hand. If you are not responding to essential oils and aromatherapy, then get medical help. Try adding a few drops of lavender, bergamot or cedarwood to your bath or add to a carrier oil for a massage. You can also place these oils in a diffuser for added benefit.
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Filed under: Anxiety and Depression, Aromatherapy by Dee
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Alzheimer’s and dementia
As well as using the therapeutic properties of the oils themselves, Aromatherapy and massage can be used to promote relaxation, lower anxiety and add to the quality of life for people suffering from dementia. Massage has been used successfully to help reduce the effects of aggression (Snyder 1995), and disturbed behaviour in individuals with severe dementia (Brooker et al. 1997).
There is also much work being done into smell-memory to help with maintaining and reinforcing the short term memory process which is the most distressing symptoms of dementia-related illnesses.
People with dementia often feel confused and anxious – a gentle hand massage can evoke feelings of comfort and safety, particularly if used with a favourite scent reminiscent of childhood or their favourite perfume.
Antifungal action
Tea tree has been proven to be effective in the treatment of acne, athletes foot, and onychomycosis nail infections (Bassett et al. 1990 and Duck et al. 1994).
Arthritis
Massage has an immediate effect on reducing cortisone levels (stress-related hormone) in children with juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, and also lowered their self and parental assessed perceived pain levels over a 30 day massage programme (Field et al. 1997).
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