Aromatherapy – Diffusers of Essential Oil

September 4th, 2010 by us1011

By definition, diffusion means the process of dispersion. In aromatherapy, the term aromatherapy diffusion means spreading or dispersion of essential aromatherapy oil. This literally means dispersion of aroma all over the place where the aromatherapy diffusers are used. There is several type of aromatherapy diffuser to diffuse oil aroma into the location. Each has their own advantages and disadvantages. These types may be simple or hi-tech as per the need of aromatherapy. If it were just going to be within your home a simple aromatherapy, diffuser would do more than enough. If you are going to maintain an aromatherapy parlor then you would require a hi-tech aromatherapy diffuser.

Facial Tissue:

Placing just a few drops of aromatherapy oil over the facial tissue would spread the aroma in that area. This is very limited in emitting only a small amount of fragrance rather than occupying the entire room faster.

Steam aromatherapy diffuser:

In this method, one could take cups of boiling water into which the aromatherapy essential oils can be poured. People generally follow this much simple technique for curing cold and sneeze. The only problem with this method would be the aroma that is diffused disappear quickly and does not last long. They just live for a shorter period. Still the diffusion is faster.

Candles:

In this method, it is not the aromatherapy candle we use. We are going to use a normal candle. In this candle, we are going to place drops of aromatherapy oil into the molten wax. Be careful so as not to drop the oil on the fire, as they are highly flammable. On more strain would be that one should regularly pour oil on the wax. One must periodically check out for the diffusion quality.

Lamp rings:

These rings are placed round the bulb. They exactly fit to the bulb’s circumference. Now they are dipped into the essential oil so that they are diffused when placed on the hot bulb.

Car Diffusers:

These are readymade products available in the market for usage in car. They act as battery operated disposable car fresheners. One who is long drive could use this for rejuvenating them.

Electric Diffusers:

These are the most popular aromatherapy diffusers as they are at quick sale in the market. They are similar to our mat machines. On the generated heat of electricity, the rod dipped into the essential oil gets heated and oil diffuses its aroma into the room.

Nebulizer Diffusers:

These are similar to sprays. They spray the oil into the air as and when required. One can even set timing for the oil to be sprayed in the air. These timings depend on the therapy and the area of the location where aroma is to be spread. It also takes into account the number of people. When they work as per timer, they are electrified. They are simply plugged in with the alarm set.

Clay Pot Diffusers:

Clay pots can be used as aromatherapy diffusers in a cheap and a very inexpensive way. There would be cork to close the opening of the clay pot. The pores of the clay pot would let the oil to diffuse into the room. However, this does not maintain steady level of aroma. When the oil level is high in the pot the aroma level would be higher as diffusion is more. Hence, the diffusion process would be uneven.

To read more articles about Aromatherapy, visit http://www.getaromatherapy.com

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Reiki Guides

September 1st, 2010 by us1011

Reiki is fast gaining popularity as a method for healing and gaining wisdom by connecting forces with the Divine. Reiki can be loosely defined channeling Universal Light for the purpose of healing the self or others. Though the original system of Reiki does not point towards the appearance of spirit guides, many a time this Light also brings with it a spiritual energy in the form of a guide who many call a spirit guide, a Reiki guide or even angelic guides depending on their spiritual inclinations.

A spirit guide is different from a spirit, when you are performing Reiki you are not channeling spirits but because of the high amounts of Spiritual Energy generated that is directed towards a positive purpose like healing, spirits who assist in such purposes may stage an appearance. These spirits are not just spirits invoked in shamanistic rituals but these are spirits who work as guides, advisors or spiritual counselors. The ancient Shinto religion features Divine Spirits called Kami who inhabit this world and are a part of each and every thing in this world like the elements and even intangible qualities like joy, fertility etc. however the system of Reiki started by Dr. Usui Mikao did not include any aspects of Shintoism that had to do with working with these spirits or Kami. Thus even though originally this Japanese tradition did not work with spirit guides, their presence started becoming favorable to the process of Reiki and during the 80′s and the 90′s with the coming of the new-age spiritual revolution, Reiki systems also began incorporating spirit guides often calling them as Reiki guides. However Reiki techniques such as Byosen Ho and Reiji Ho help the practitioner develop intuitive abilities that are a gateway to astral wisdom and connecting with spirit guides.

Though these guides are astral spirits that can be present in a Reiki session and guide a healer to know things about the patient for example, while working with certain patients it may become difficult to figure out the correct approach, work on a specific site of blockage etc and this is where a spirit guide can come in to guide the healer and this in turn boosts the power of Reiki to bring about great results and higher healing.

It is not that an initiate at the second level will magically start to communicate with sprit guides, it takes practice and perseverance and to develop intuitive abilities to sense spirit guides through Reiki techniques like Byosen Ho and Reiji Ho. It is not an easy process but certainly not impossible if you learn to listen to the voice that resides inside of you. This voice is constantly talking but the noise from the mind drowns it out, keenly listening to the voice of your heart is a tool of power that is always with you. This voice can guide you like no other spirit can and it is vital to heed its call and this is what can be developed by using the aforementioned Reiki techniques.

Constantly honing your skills and practicing Reiki with faith and understanding can lead to some wonderful experiences with yourself – your own inner work and also share wisdom with spirit guides.

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Essential Oils – Ylang Ylang – An Exotic Fragrance for the Heart

August 31st, 2010 by us1011

Ylang ylang (Cananga odorata)is in the custard-apple family of botanical plants and is indigenous to Southeast Asia where most of the world’s oil is produced in the Comoro Islands, Madagascar and R

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Essential Oils And Travel – Packing Suggestions For Your Essential Oils

August 31st, 2010 by us1011

What packing secrets can make the packing of your essential oils easier? There are several things that can help keep your oils safe and organized while you travel, and there are also some hints about the ones you take in your one-quart plastic bag.

For Your Checked Bag

I use a specially padded carrying case for 30 vials of essential oils, though some people prefer the carrying case for 16 vials. It has dividers of padded cotton between where each bottle sits, which is great to keep them from banging together. It also has padding on all sides, top, and bottom. There are many excellent essential oil travel cases on the market, but this style is my favorite.

For Your One-Quart Plastic Bag

What I do is line up six 5 ml oil bottles in the bottom of a non-zip sandwich bag and fold it over them to make a secure carrier. Then I place them in a zipped plastic snack bag.

Because of the possibility of sitting on the tarmac and getting too hot, I also put a 15 ml bottle of peppermint oil in my one-quart bag. This 15 ml bottle will have only 15-20 drops of peppermint oil in it. If I need it to help cool down my body temperature, I simply

1, fill with water to almost the top of the bottle

2. replace the cap lid with a spray top

and I have my own personal spritzer! Peppermint is known for its cooling properties. I’ve been known to spray it on my shoulders, neck, etc., but it is important to keep peppermint away from the eyes, because it can burn.

A Tip for Both

Most companies provide labels to go onto the top of the essential oil bottles and these are very helpful, especially for the bottles in the padded carrying case. If your eyes are over 40 years of age, you may prefer to make your own labels with your label maker!

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Essential Oils Can Counter Fibromyalgia Headaches

August 27th, 2010 by us1011

Did you know that over 50% of those diagnosed with fibromyalgia suffer from constant headaches or migraines? It is one of the most frequent complaints from those who literally “hurt all over.” People with fibromyalgia tend to suffer three kinds of headaches-muscle tension headaches, migraines and combination headaches. There have been some interesting theories as to why people with fibromyalgia suffer from so many headaches. Many of these theories rest on the idea that the same dysfunction that causes fibromyalgia also causes migraine headaches.

Migraine and tension headaches may affect people with fibromyalgia because of the disordered sleep that fibromyalgia often causes including sleep apnea. Studies have shown that both migraine sufferers and people with fibromyalgia both have sleep apnea and other sleep-related disorders. This may be the reason why so many people with the syndrome suffer from morning headaches.

A large percentage of people with fibromyalgia also suffer from temporal mandibular joint disorder. This disorder causes muscle and joint pain in the face, jaw, and neck, and often causes severe migraine headaches.

A widely held theory is that migraines are caused by the same factors as those causing fibromyalgia. Recent studies on people with migraine headaches show low-levels of serotonin in their brains. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that helps to communicate pain signals to different parts of the brain. People who don’t have enough serotonin aren’t able to communicate pain signals effectively, resulting in increased, and even severe, pain. Fibromyalgia has also been linked to low levels of serotonin in the brain.

The mineral magnesium is also found in low levels in both migraine sufferers and people with fibromyalgia. Studies support that these low magnesium levels may actually be a cause for migraine headaches and fibromyalgia.

So How Can Essential Oils Help?

Since sleep is a problem, it is important to address this naturally and not with pharmaceutical chemicals which actually cause other problems in the body to worsen. Lavender has long been known for its sleep inducing ability primarily due to its esters and alcohols. A wonderful sleep inducer is Roman chamomile which is also high in esters. Combining the two in a warm bath before bed may be very relaxing. Relieving pain in muscles is also a key. Marjoram, also high in esters and alcohols is excellent in relaxing tight painful muscles. I recommend layering marjoram and peppermint on painful muscles to relax them. The menthol in the peppermint gives that icy-hot feeling. Valerian is another favorite in inducing sleep-just make sure to put in on the soles of the feet-the fragrances is reminiscent of “dirty socks.”

Dealing with one’s anxiety levels is also key. You can use rose, frankincense, clary sage, orange, bergamot, grapefruit, ylang ylang, sandalwood, neroli, sweet marjoram, tangerine, lavender, geranium, or jasmine. Find the fragrance that best suits the individual not only physically but also emotionally and spiritually.

Since fibromyalgia is an inflammatory process, I recommend using anti-inflammatory oils. Those that are highest in this quality are actually from the rain forests of South America. Copiaba and Ocotea have shown to be excellent in this regard.

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Simple Ways to Vaporize Essential Oils

August 25th, 2010 by us1011

A lot of people wonder if there are any simple ways in which essential oils can be vaporized without reproducing any foul odor. It has now become quite simpler for people to vaporize essential oils quite conveniently as there are a number of simple steps that can be followed to achieve good results within a short span of time. In this article, you will read about some of these simple steps that are gradually gaining momentum and can be used for vaporizing oils.

One of the simplest methods of vaporization involves usage of a bowl filled with water. For this, you are simply required to fill the bowl with boiling water and some drops of essential oil. To prevent any adverse reaction, it is better not to use plastic bowls that can be damaged due to chemical reactions. Instead, ceramic or glass bowls can be used for the purpose. This method has also been proven to be highly effective in treating congestion as the aromatic vapor helps in opening up the airways. However, it is essential to note that this method is not suited for asthmatics.

Essential oils can be vaporized also by creating a simple room spray. For this, you are required to mix a few drops of essential oil with alcohol, preferably vodka which does not have a very strong smell, and water. It is better to avoid using this spray over polished surfaces that can get damaged due to the chemical reaction. If you have time constraints then using the electric vaporizer could be the best option for you. These electric vaporizers ensure that the oil is merely heated and not burnt. As a result these vaporizers are among the safest options available in the market to vaporize essential oils. These vaporizers are even available for cars.

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Morning Sickness – Essential Oils and Other Suggestions to Ease the Queasiness

August 25th, 2010 by us1011

The nausea and vomiting of early pregnancy were topics written as early as 2000 BC by the Egyptians.

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Aromatherapy and the Importance of Smell

August 24th, 2010 by us1011

To create a mood, you create a scent. It started with aerosol sprays, moved to scented dried flowers and dyed wood chips, then to the more sophisticated freeze-dried flowers, fruits, nuts, and berries. Now consumers and aroma therapists have discovered essential oils. Essential oils are derived from aromatic plants.

In aromatherapy, inhalation of essential oil is the most popular method of application compared to oral and topical. Because of the three methods of application, inhalation has the most rapid effect.

When we inhale through the nose, the chemical components within the essential oil bind to receptors in the olfactory bulb. The odor molecules affect our brain, particularly the limbic system where memory and smell are said to reside. Limbic system is also referred to as the emotional brain. Likewise, molecules inhaled through the nose or mouths are also carried to the lungs and interact with the respiratory system.

Oils can be diffused into the air in many ways. Many aromatherapy enthusiasts prefer the electric aromatherapy diffuser. This method puts the fragrance in the air using no heat, which is the best for the oil. You get the best smell and retain more of the properties.

If you’re not ready to invest in a diffuser, try a potpourri or simmer pot to start out in your experimentation with essential oils. To maximize dispersion of the aroma, put about ten drops of oil in the water. You can also buy brass or porcelain candle rings that you fill with oil and put on a light bulb. The heating of the bulb releases the scent.

You may also try dry evaporation. Use cotton ball or tissue, place several drops of essential oil then allow to evaporate. Another way is to spray the essential oil into the air as a deodorizer or freshener. In a spray bottle, add a few drops of essential oil in water and mix well.

Following are some essential uses for aromatherapy essential oils:

o Prepare an aqueous solution of peppermint oil to stimulate alertness. An aqueous solution of citrus oil may enhance immune function.

o Do you have a big test or presentation looming? Put a few drops of rosemary or basil in your diffuser or lamp ring. These oils are good for focus, concentration and memory.

o If you’re having guests, use the spice or culinary oils, which stimulate appetite and aid digestion. Lavender, cardamom, caraway and spearmint are good choices.

o To prevent guests from getting too relaxed after dinner, rosemary and basil stimulate and provoke conversation.

o Evergreen oils such as fir, pine and spruce, or citrus oils like orange and grape fruit are pleasing and uplifting. You can even throw in a bit of lavender to make them soothing.

o Citrus oils, as well as lavender and marjoram, can calm crabby children or stressed-out adults. Just put a drop on a pillow or handkerchief and let the scents wash away the traumas of the day.

o If you want to create a seductive atmosphere, the subtle scent of sandalwood can send the senses spinning. This erotic aroma wafting through the boudoir or bath conjures up images of “1000 Arabian Nights.”

o Got a cold or sinus trouble? Eucalyptus penetrates the stuffiest of noses and creates a welcome airway. The scent of eucalyptus can also increase creativity.

o Oils are perfect for preventing sickness and are great additions to your cleaning solutions. Oil of oregano is 28 times more disinfecting than phenol, which is a common ingredient in household cleaning products.

o For pre-bedtime relaxing, mix lavender with ylang ylang, rose, marjoram or jasmine essential oils for a deeper relaxing sleep.

o Geranium also balances very well with lavender, as does with chamomile, which is known for its tranquilizing properties.

But contrary to many people’s belief, aromatherapy does not just about smelling something. Aromatherapy is defined as the use of essential oils for therapeutic purposes. Physicians only choose the method of application according to its clinical appropriateness that is, inhalation for respiratory tract infections, or for psychological effect; ingestion for intestinal complaints; topical application for burns, skin, and muscular problems.

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Facts About Essential Oils and Wrinkles

August 24th, 2010 by us1011

The subject of essential oils and wrinkles can be confusing, because there are so many different types of oil that are used in skincare products. When it comes to fish oil and wrinkles, the subject is a little easier to understand, because the term is more specific. Let me try to explain the difference between the compounds that have beneficial effects on the signs of aging and those that are ineffective.

Facts about Essential Oils and Wrinkles

When researchers study the connection between fish oil and wrinkles or the lack thereof, they are looking at the benefits of “essential-fatty acids”, commonly known as omega-3s. When you see “essential-oils” listed as an ingredient in skincare products, those are not fatty acids.

They aren’t actually even oil-based ingredients. They are water-based fragrances.

They have been around for thousands of years. They are created by boiling plants (rose petals for example) in water and using distillation to gather the “essence” or aroma of that plant. Rose-water, for example, is an essential-oil. There is no connection between essential oils and wrinkles, or wrinkle removal.

Facts about Fish Oil and Wrinkles

Sebum is the skin’s natural moisturizer. It is composed primarily of fat. The moisture content of the skin decreases with age. This causes sagging or a loss of “elasticity”.

In a recent study, researchers found that a daily omega-3 supplement (fish-oil) increased the skin’s elasticity by 10% after three months of supplementation. Now, I can tell you that I have seen “better” research results with topically applied lotions containing vegetable-oils, protein-peptides, fatty acids and antioxidants, but the average creams on the market contain mineral-oils, which have no biological activity and contain no essential-fats. They are not similar to the composition of sebum, so that do not moisturize or improve elasticity.

So, what’s the relationship between improved elasticity by taking fish oil and wrinkles? When the skin is tighter (more elastic) wrinkles are less deep, less noticeable, fine lines disappear completely. It’s like having a face lift. If you take your hands and “stretch” the skin on your face, you’ll see wrinkles disappear.

How to Improve Elasticity by 52%

Before I tell you how to do that, let me mention one more thing about using essential oils and wrinkles. Even natural plant fragrances are common allergens. Allergic reactions can cause permanent detrimental changes in a person’s appearance, particularly if you are getting a little older. So, I have always recommended that you avoid any product that contains an added fragrance; natural or not. Now, let me get to that 52% improvement.

According to the studies concerning fish oil and wrinkles, you can increase elasticity by 10% if you are not currently taking an omega3 supplement every day. If you add that to a 42% improvement that has been seen by using a topical cream containing a compound known as “Functional Keratin”, then you have improved elasticity by 52%. It’s simple math.

Hopefully, this clears up some of the confusion about essential oils and wrinkles. 52%…just think of it!

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Aromatherapy And Essential Oils

August 22nd, 2010 by us1011

The practice of using volatile plant oils to enhance the psychological and physical aspects of an individual is called aromatherapy. The invigorating or uplifting scents of this process relies on elements, such as essential oils of well-known plants and flowers to provide an array of health benefits when used in the proper manner. To date, there is close to 100 essential oils used in aromatherapy techniques.

Essential oils are extracted from herbs, plants, fruits, and flowers, which work once they come in contact with the blood stream. Aromatherapy is also seen when an individual spreads a scented lotion or cream on their body and pleasantly takes in the enveloping scent. Additionally, one should take notice that perfume oils (such as “fragrance oils”) are not in the same category as essential oils, as these options contain man-made chemicals that do more harm than good.

The Benefits of Aromatherapy

As the essential oils are inhaled into the lungs, a wide-range of benefits that affect the brain and body have been noted for many centuries. Reactions are triggered in the brain, while physical changes take place to ease the symptoms of many different common ailments. Many people seeking natural approaches to achieve an improved status in health consider aromatherapy. Instead of relying on caffeine and prescribed medications, aromatherapy provides a treatment that carries very few side effects. A host of medical concerns are treated using aromatherapy, such as PMS cramps, high blood pressure, congestion, dandruff, blemished skin, minor aches and joint pains, tension headaches, insomnia, and a failing immune system.

Aromatherapy is also convenient, as it is a practice easily accomplished within the comforts of your own home. While professionals in the massage or spa business offer pricey aromatherapy sessions, those sticking to a budget can still benefit from the same techniques, but within their own controlled setting. For example, a simple scented candle is enough to send a person into the arms of relaxation.

Common Aromatherapy Scents

Depending on what you wish to achieve in aromatherapy, you will encounter a variety of selections that treat ailments spanning from bronchial coughs to stress. Accomplishing a state of relaxation, rejuvenation, and invigoration is often associated with aromatherapy oils of sage, lavender, and sandalwood. These selections contain components that possess the ability to ease the signs and symptoms of tension, anxiety, and insomnia.

To intensify the sense of wellbeing, essential oils are sometimes combined with therapeutic massage in order to enhance the overall process. As the oils are absorbed through the skin, they come in contact with the circulation of blood, which speeds up the effectiveness of the aromatherapy oils while still being absorbed through the nose.

Studies have even revealed that lavender can slow down the heart rate and lower blood pressure. It also works wonders by relieving muscle tension. Chamomile also allows one to relax. Encouraging a sense of motivation is associated with the essential oils of pine, mint, or citrus. When using candles and sprays that contain essential oils of lime, orange, lemon, or grapefruit – an uplifted spirit is the result. Peppermint and eucalyptus are known to create stimulation within the body. Aromatherapy has also been used to set the mood in the bedroom, as gardenia, sandalwood, and jasmine bring romantic scents into the air.

Overall, an individual can take advantage of aromatherapy by seeking the lotions, candles, gels, bath salts, room sprays, inhalants, and vaporizers that utilize the essential oils that correspond to their concerns.

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