Beginning ‘bona fide’ aromatherapy, beyond burning a scented candle or soaking with a pleasing pre-packaged bath salt blend, can be a little daunting to many people. All those little bottles of pricey liquids, electric contraptions, and fancy-sounding blends - how does one actually use essential oils to improve their health, happiness and well-being? It’s easier than one might think - getting started can open a whole new world of fun and effective natural remedies that can lift your mood, calm your nerves, and support healing of a great many common ailments.

The basics of aromatherapy are simple, once a few fundamental concepts are understood. Aromatherapy is the practice of using essential oils - the aromatic compounds of plants, extracted through steam distillation or other methods. The oils act as the chemical messengers and protectors of the plant kingdom. Each essential oil can contain hundreds of different ‘volatile’ (easily evaporated) compounds, most of which are very compatible with the physiology of the human body. What’s so wonderful is they can also do for us what they do for plants - act as chemical messengers through affecting our smell sense and limbic system, and defending the body against foreign invaders by their anti-bacterial and anti-viral actions. In this article, we’ll focus on the mental and emotional effects of aromatherapy, and address the physiological aspects at another time.

Essential oils are best used in one of two simple ways: through inhalation, where the oils can directly affect certain areas of the brain, and through topical application, where the oils are easily absorbed into the bloodstream. (Note: Oral ingestion can be an option, but only under experienced medical supervision - further, SOME OILS CAN BE TOXIC, and other even seemingly harmless oils should not be used under certain conditions. If you are pregnant, or have specific medical needs, consult a knowledgeable practitioner before continuing!)

Inhalation of Essential Oils

Essential oils when inhaled directly effect our limbic system, the brain’s emotional centers. Many oils have been found to sharpen concentration, reduce tension and anxiety, and even reduce depression. How can we reap these magnificent benefits? There are a few simple, cost-effective ways to prepare essential oils for inhalation - and experience these wonderful effects: the ‘handkerchief method’, making your own ’smelling salts’, and making your own aromatherapy ‘mister’.

The handkerchief method is pretty straightforward - put a drop or two of an oil or blend on a tissue and inhale (careful with some oils though - peppermint, for example, can burn the sensitive skin around your nostrils if put in direct contact). You can even leave the tissue (or ‘handkerchief, or piece of cloth, or cotton, or whatever) in a room or your workspace and the oil will continue to evaporate and have its effects.

Making your own ’smelling salts’ is similar, though your preparation will last a while longer. To make the salts, fill a small vial (dark glass with a good cap is best) with natural sea salt and drop essential oils into the salt. The amount of oil is not too critical - enough that there is detectable aroma, and not so much that the salt gets completely wet. Just unscrew the cap and inhale from the bottle whenever you need a lift, or, like the handkerchief, leave the vial open in your space, letting the aroma slowly fill the area.

A ‘mister’ can be used infuse a room with aroma - just add essential oils to water in a small spray bottle, shake (before each use) and spray!

Here are a few easy recipes for the inhalation method (Note: in all recipes, the number of drops of oil and/or amount of carrier can be used as a ratio, which you can increase or decrease as you need):

For uplifting the mood and brightening the mind - 4 drops of Rosemary Cineol, 3 drops of Lavender, 2 drops of Lemon and 1 drop of Peppermint, OR 3 drops Clary Sage, 2 drops Bergamot and 1 drop Sweet Orange.

For calming anxiety - equal parts of Roman Chamomile, Bergamot and Orange, OR 3 drops Lavender, 2 drops Neroli and 1 drop Bergamot.

For creating a harmonious atmosphere - 3 drops Jasmine, 1 drop Ylang Ylang and 1 drop Sandalwood, OR equal parts Geranium, Patchouli and Bergamot.

Aromatherapy Massage

Now for the topical application method. Usually this is described as aromatherapy massage - ideally, this is done with a partner, but self-massage will work as well. Creating your own massage oil is a straightforward process - just dilute 10 - 20 drops of essential oil per ounce of carrier oil. There are a variety of carrier oils available, though Sweet Almond is a great all-around oil and is recommended for general aromatherapy massage. As for the massage, itself, any technique will do - let your intuition be your guide. When you wish to get a little more advanced, do a little further research to create synergy with certain essential oils and certain acupressure points.

The same blends for inhalation can be used for massage, though here are a few more fun recipes:

For a sensual massage, per ounce of carrier oil, add - 8 drops Sandalwood, 6 drops Rose, 4 drops Lavender and 2 drops Ylang Ylang.

For opening the heart, try 4 drops Spikenard, 4 drops Lavender and 2 drops of Rose.

Finally, for sheer relaxation, use 6 drops Lavender, 4 drops Neroli and 2 drops Bergamot.

Don’t be afraid to create your own blends! You will certainly find particular oils that you enjoy - and aromatherapy is like that. It is the oils you find most enjoyable that are likely those that are most effective for you. My only recommendation is to change the ratios of oils you are blending very slowly. Start with one drop of each oil in a small vial, mixing them and allowing a few minutes for them to blend before adding more oil 1 drop at a time. In general, citrus oils ( Orange, Bergamot, Lemon, Lime) tend to bring alertness while calming at the same time. Herb oils (Peppermint, Rosemary) tend to be invigorating, while floral oils tend to be relaxing (Lavender, Chamomile, Jasmine, Neroli). This is only a guideline - many oils have complex properties and will affect individuals differently - use your nose as a guide.

Conclusion

Getting started with aromatherapy is easy, and with these simple ideas, you will be able to create essential oil preparations tailored to your needs and enjoyment. This can lead to a lifelong appreciation of these wonderful gifts from nature.

Misty Rae Cech, ND, is a naturopath and yoga teacher practicing in Boulder, Colorado. She regularly employs essential oils, flower essences, and other natural therapy modalities with her clients. She is the owner of http://www.anandaapothecary.com and http://www.ananda-aromatherapy.com.

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Essential oils provide a fantastic natural alternative to common ailments we see at home. The actions of essentialoils are broad, ranging from topical antiseptics and anti-inflammatories to analgesics, digestive system tonics,and anti-depressants. While essential oils should not be a substitute for professional medical care, they canbe successfully employed for many minor complaints, and as adjuncts to other therapies.

Here we will have a brief look at ten essential oils which may comprise the ‘basic home care kit’.While by no means exhaustive, this list will go a long way to providing effective (and often pleasant!) treatmentsfor you and your family for things like cuts and scrapes, sunburn, digestive troubles, stress related conditionsand more. In the second article, we will cover specific applications and uses of each oil.

Oil #1: Tea Tree Essential Oil

When first examined for it’s antiseptic properties, Tea Tree essential oil was found to be 100 timesmore powerful than carbolic acid - the medical standard at the time. Tea tree has an extremely broadrange of antibiotic, antiviral and antifungal properties that have been confirmed by modern scientific research.Often used topically on small wounds, Tea Tree is also commonly found in oral hygiene preparations, and canalso be effectively employed for Candida, athlete’s foot and acne, among other things.

Oil #2: Lavender Essential Oil

Lavender has often been called the ‘medicine chest in a bottle’ for its broad range of applications.Every home should keep Lavender on hand, even if no other oil is used, as it is so very effective on burns.It’s anti-inflammatory action is responsible for the beginnings of modern aromatherapy, as Dr. Jean Valnetdiscovered Lavender’s healing properties after being burned in a laboratory accident. Lavender is consideredto speed wound healing and reduce scarring. The oil is also pleasantly calming, and can be used to reduce stressin a variety of situations - a commonly used technique is to apply Lavender oil ‘neat’ (undiluted)to the soles of the feet of patients recovering from almost any ailment.

Oil #3: Chamomile Essential Oil

Ah, the great tension reliever, Chamomile oil. This extremely gentle essential oil is useful for a wide varietyof nervous conditions, and is often indicated for cases of stress in children (including teething and general ‘crankiness’).Rubbing into the solar plexus is a commonly used application if that is where one tends to ‘hold tension’.Chamomile essential oil is available in to varieties, German or Blue Chamomile and Roman Chamomile. The Romanvariety is most often used for stress relief, whereas the German variety has the added bonus of being an extremelyeffective anti-inflammatory.

Oil #4: Peppermint Essential Oil

An excellent digestive tonic, Peppermint essential oil can sooth many stomach complaints. For the traveler,it’s effectiveness on calming motion sickness can be of great help. Further, at least eight controlledstudies have shown Peppermint oil to be effective in reducing symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome, a painfulcondition of the intestines. Beyond it’s support of the digestive system, Peppermint is delightfullystimulating to the mind, brightening and sharpening mental focus. Finally, Peppermint is considered by someto be a more effective insect repellent than citronella when used on the body (rather than in the surroundingair).

Oil #5: Eucalyptus Essential Oil

Another essential oil with a broad range of properties, Eucalyptus is most often used for respiratory conditions,being useful in clearing congestion with coughs and colds. However, it’s effects are certainly not limitedto the airways - because of it’s broad range of effects, it has been called the aromatherapists ‘designeroil’. Eucalyptus oil can cool the body in Summer (or due to fever - use in a compress), and supportthe immune system in Winter. Diffusing Eucalyptus oil can kill most staphylococcus bacteria, again being supportiveof bronchial infections. It is considered equally effective in cases of cystitis, candida, and sunburn, toname a few, as well as being an insect repellent.

Oil #6: Geranium Essential Oil

Geranium (sometimes known as ‘Geranium Rose’) works wonderfully on both physiological and psychologicallevels. It’s floral aroma is brightening and uplifting, while also working as a sedative. Malte Hozzelhas made this statement regarding this oil : “Geranium’s vital, sensual presence is not subtle,but direct & unavoidable, making it one of the oils of choice for aphrodisiac qualities. (Geranium EssentialOil) inspires natural beauty & enjoyment, uplifts instantly & “tonifies” the mind & intellectin a powerful, nearly demanding attitude. Mobilizing hidden creative & emotional reserves, helping us torise to our own earthly & spiritual identify. A fiery beauty for the spells of all worlds.” Particularlynoted for it’s effect on female physiologic conditions, Geranium oil can be effective for menopausalproblems, uterine and breast complaints.

Oil #7: Rosemary Essential Oil

Rosemary essential oil is an effective physical and mental stimulant, whether used in a diffuser or in a morningbath. It’s slightly spicy, rather than floral aroma, has a warming effect particularly useful for arthriticjoints and other muscular complaints. It also has a long history of treatment for colds and flu - Rosemarywas a component of ‘Four Thieves Vinegar’, which robbers rubbed upon their bodies to prevent infectionwhen up to no good during the plague years of the middle ages. Also, Rosemary is the essential oil most oftenassociated with improving hair growth in cases of Alopecia.

Oil #8: Thyme Essential Oil

Thyme oil is a powerful antiviral, antibiotic, antiseptic and diuretic, though it should be employed withgreat care. There are many types of Thyme oil available, but only the ‘linalol’ chemotype is appropriatefor use with children; all varieties should be diluted prior to topical application. Given the precautions,Thyme can be a first line of defense in cases of flu, being used in a room diffuser. It also supports eliminationof toxic wastes from the body (particularly noted for excessive uric acid), and it’s warming qualitycan eliminate mucous and phlegm. It’s application for the digestive system is that of a powerful anti-parasitic,and for the muscular system, it can be helpful for rheumatic aches and pains. Thyme oil may also be supportivein cases of hair loss.

Oil #9: Lemon Essential Oil

A recent study on test-taking college students showed the diffusion of Lemon oil into a room improved testscores more than any other oil. In addition to it’s mind-brightening qualities, it can also disinfectroom air and act as a natural deodorant. Lemon has been noted to support liver function, and is also commonlyused to assist in weight loss and cellulite reduction. In blends, lemon adds a pleasant top note, and can createa synergistic effect with other oils. Finally, Lemon oil is commonly used as both a fragrance and flavoringagent.

Oil #10: Clove Essential Oil

The power of Clove essential oil is noted upon the first sensing of the aroma - it is quite strong,sharp and earthy. Clove oil has been found to be the strongest anti-oxidant of any essential oil, and is acomponent of ‘longevity’ formulas. It is also an extremely potent antibacterial, effective againsta broader range of microbes than any other oil except perhaps Oregano - Clove oil has even been employedto sterilize surgical instruments. Clove also has analgesic properties, and can be used to temporarily reducethe pain of toothache. Clove oil (or ground cloves) is also a component of Dr. Huda Clark’s anti-parasiteprotocol, helping eliminate parasites from one’s digestive system. This is a very powerful oil whichshould be diluted to 1% or less for topical application.

So, there we have a possible ‘top ten’ essential oils for the home medicine chest, a selectionwith an extremely broad range of uses for common ailments seen in a family setting. It is important to notethat all essential oils are powerful, and they should be treated with caution and respect. Always refer toa trusted source before making specific applications of any oil, as many can be irritating or possibly toxicif used incorrectly.

Misty Rae Cech, ND is a naturopath practicing in Boulder, Colorado. She employs a broad array of natural therapies with her clients, including flower essences, essential oils, herbs and more. She is also the owner of http://www.ananda-aromatherapy.com.

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A fantastic and mysterious relationship is continuously unfolding between plants and their surroundings. These organic green machines are ceaselessly performing a glorious alchemy with water, soil, air and sunlight. The nearly infinite possible combinations of plant genetics and environmental conditions on the face of the earth have allowed for an almost immeasurable diversity of alchemal floral expression, resulting in a vast array of natural botanical materials. These range from simple staple foodstuffs to gourmet fruits and vegetables, from rich exotic spices to effective medicinal herbs, and from enchanting natural perfumes to complex therapeutic essential oils. Mankind is reaching ever further into the jungles and rainforests, knowing that nature is the true master of creation in these fields.

The line between food-plants and medicinal herbs is a fuzzy one. Science regularly reports newfound medicinal effects in plants once taken for granted; many fruits once thought quite plain contain some of the world’s most potent anti-cancer agents. The same goes for teas - green tea is one of the most potent anti-oxidants known - and spices - cinnamon may prevent the onset of debilitating diabetes - and this list continues to grow. This same lack of distinction exists between natural fragrances and therapeutic essential oils. The oil of a rose, laden with Citronellol, does triple duty as a perfume, an effective agent against the herpes simplex virus, and an uplifting aromatic that can help one open emotionally after a traumatizing experience.

The use of so-called ‘alternative’ therapies is on the rise; more individuals are turning to the wisdom of nature for assistance for all types of ailments, both physical and psychological. Interestingly, the source of most ills, from a naturopathic point of view, is being out-of-balance with nature. Eating unnatural things, following unnatural cycles,and living in unnatural environments. Lack of balance with the earth, from which we are made and upon which we live, leads to ‘dis-ease’ in our bodies and minds. As plants have created their wondrous botanical materials in a process guided by the rhythms of the heavens and earth, we may look to ‘plant wisdom’ to lead our way back into balance.

A depressed emotional state is a common reasons for using complementary and alternative therapies today. A wide range of psychological, physical, and energetic issues can lead to feelings of depression and a pervasive outlook of negativity. Moreover, once in a state of depression, patterns can arise that make relief all the more difficult to find. The use of essential oils for uplifting the psyche and spirit is becoming more widespread because of the oils’ broad and dramatic effects. While the oils themselves may not directly affect the underlying cause of depression, they may help individuals break free from depressive cycles - they may provide the impetus to ‘get off the couch’, so to speak, and begin creating long lasting change. Many natural healers believe depression to be a result of, like many other ills, of being out of balance; being unable to ’synch up’ with the natural state of harmony that permeates the universe. For relieving this is-harmony, aromatherapy can be a very powerful means to infuse one’s body and mind with the most concentrated, sublime botanicals nature has to offer.

In humans, the olfactory (sense of smell) region is an area of about 2 and a half square centimeters, and is located in each of the two nasal cavities between and below the eyes. Containing approximately fifty million primary sensory receptor cells, this region is highly intricate, being 10,000 times more perceptive than the sense of taste. When compared to sight, we find that olfaction is more complex - it is able to distinguish a nearly infinite number of element compounds at very low concentrations. In order to perceive the visible spectrum, humans use only three types of photoreceptors; in contrast, the sense of smell relies on several hundred distinct classes of receptors.

Modern research has shown natural plant oils stimulate multiple regions in the brain, including those controlling endocrine, immune, and limbic (emotional center) functions. Essential oils have a direct and profound effect on the deepest levels of the body, emotions, and psyche. Through inhalation, essential oils have a strong and immediate influence. Passing through the capillary beds of the sinuses and activating the olfactory nerves, volatile plant oils enter the brain, producing direct and powerful systemic effects - the most immediate being on the emotions. Our emotions and our sense of smell have very strong ties - perhaps more than with any other of the other four senses.

In both Naturopathy and Ayurvedic Medicine (The Science of Life), essential oils are considered to enhance the flow of prana (essential life force), enhance and nourish ojas (sustaining energy and immunological essence), and brighten tejas (clarity and mental luminosity). In Traditional Chinese Medicine, essential oils in general are medicines for the Shen, the spiritual essence that resides in the heart and guides and governs consciousness. Used consciously, essential oils powerfully enhance positive mental and emotional states.

Further, the medicinal properties of essential oils, through their ability to support physiological healing, can also be of great benefit to the heart and mind. A Korean study on the effect of aromatherapy on pain in patients with arthritis found that receiving massage with lavender, marjoram, eucalyptus, rosemary, and peppermint oils significantly decreased both the pain AND mental depression levels.

Following are some oils that have a reputation for up-lifting Shen, enhancing prana, nourishing ojas, and brightening tejas - combinations that may have marked effects on symptoms of depression. These oils can be used alone or in combination in a nebulizing diffuser (producing a fine mist of oils for inhalation), or in aromatherapy massage, thereby inhaled and absorbed through the skin concurrently.

Bergamot (pressed from the peels of bitter oranges) has a strong reputation for its ability to gently uplift. In terms of Chinese medicine, this is a direct result of its smoothing the flow of Liver-Qi (’Chi’ or Life Force), the liver being thought of as the seat of the eternal soul. Bergamot combines the ability to both relax the nerves and refresh the Spirit; it is suitable for many types of depressive states.

Neroli (from the flower of bitter oranges), like Bergamot, regulates the Qi - and like Jasmine flower oil, comforts the mind and heart. Neroli is called for at a core level, for the type of depression that comes from nervous and emotional exhaustion. Neroli uplifts the mind and Spirit with its potential to nourish and unify. Neroli assists in retrieving and releasing repressed emotions, with potential to nourish and unify a fragmented psyche. Neroli is specifically indicated for individuals who, in order to escape from emotional pain and suffering, cut themselves off from their feelings and senses.

The Chamomiles (German and Roman) are wonderful oils to use when the depression manifests in a moody, irritable, dissatisfied outward expression associated with stagnant Liver-Qi. These flower oils are earthy, rich, and grounding with subtle uplifting qualities.

When depression is of a Fire (overly aggressive) nature, it often involves an imbalance of joy and love - the root emotions of the heart and mind. Joy is an extension of Shen’s (spiritual essence’s) innate sense of harmony and perfection, an experience of emotional and spiritual well-being. The depression that afflicts the heart and Shen involves a loss of one’s natural sense of joy. There is often an accompanied lack of enthusiasm and interest as well as an inability to become inspired. Rose otto - steam distilled rose essential oil - or Rose Absolute may have a profound effect on this state. Rose is thought the premier heart opening aromatic, bringing joy, uplifting and restoring balance.

What follows are a few recipes for uplifting and releasing depressed emotional states - use your intuition to find the right one. Often, the single essential oil or blend you find most attractive will be the one that serves you best. Experiment, explore, and have fun with these fantastic gifts of nature. These blends may be used in a diffuser or candle lamp, unless where a carrier oil is indicated - blends with carriers are intended specifically for aromatherapy massage (self-massage is very effective, as well as a simple massage from a friend or loved one).

For releasing and opening the heart: 1 part Rose 3 parts Sandalwood 1 part Sweet Orange or Bergamot 3 parts Jasmine 1 part Ylang Ylang 1 part Sandalwood

Brightening, refreshing and uplifting: 3 parts Bergamot 1 part Ylang Ylang 1 part Grapefruit 2 parts Bergamot 2 parts Clary Sage 1 part Frankincense 3 parts Bergamot or Sweet Orange 2 parts Clary Sage 2 parts Frankincense 1 part Lemon 1 part either Jasmine or Neroli

Nourishing: 1 part (Roman) Chamomile 1 part Vanilla 10 parts Carrier oil of choice

Floral and earthy (uplifting and softening to Spirit): 1 part Neroli 1 part Vanilla 1 part Orange 1 part Sandalwood 1 part Chamomile 1 part Bergamot 1 part Helichrysum

Single oils can also be used, and should be investigated so one can learn the different energies of each plant. For depression associated with negativity: Bergamot, Chamomile, Helichrysum, Neroli, or Sweet Orange. For a profound lack of joy, try Rose, Jasmine, Patchouli, or Ylang Ylang. For overthinking and worry, try Frankincense, Lemon, Marjoram, Myrrh or Vetiver. For pessimism, regret and remorse, try Clary Sage, Cypress, Hyssop, or Pine needle. For doubt of one’s capacity to cope with overwhelming situations, try Juniper Berry.

For cases of moderate to severe depression, professional help should always be sought. It is important to consider if you one requires professional help if the depression is overwhelming - while aromatherapy can provide support in a significant number of situations, it may not be for everyone. Essential oils can safely be used in conjunction with other treatments - consult your care giver to ensure there are no conflicts if medications have been prescribed.

Misty is a degreed naturopath, iridologist and herbologist practicing in Boulder, Colorado. She uses pure essential oils and essential oil blends with her clients and friends for their uplifting qualities.

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