Aromatherapy:

INTRODUCTION:

 Aromatherapy was discovered in the late 1920s, in 1928, French chemist Rene-Maurice
Gattefoss was working in a laboratory at his family's perfumery.
 A sudden explosion severely burned his hand, which he quickly plunged into a container
of lavender oil. Afterward, he was surprised by how quickly his hand has been healed.
 Egyptian culture used resins, balms and fragrant oils for medical, magical and religious
ceremonies, for embalming, and as an offering to their gods.
 Other ancient cultures recognized the physical and psychological benefits of scented
ointments and oils, including China and India,
 during the same period as ancient Egypt. Greek and Roman cultures refined and added to
this knowledge.
 Hippocrates, known as the father of modern medicine, maintained 2,500 years ago that
“the key to good health rests on having a daily aromatic bath and scented massage’.
 Dioscorides wrote about aromatics in his Materia Medica about 100 AD.
 Most aromatic oils used (prior to about 1600 AD) were not distilled, as we know today,
but were produced by macerating plants in hot vegetable oils or more commonly in
animal fats.
 However, distillation of some sort is an age-old process, which may have begun as early
as 2000 BC.
 Between the 7th and the 13th centuries Alchemist Arabic philosophers devoted
themselves to the old hermetic art of alchemy, the purification and concentration of
spiritual forces. Reviving the use of aromatics in medicine and perfumery.
 Aromatherapy began with the Egyptians, who used the method of infusion to extract the
oils from aromatic plants which were used for medicinal and cosmetic purposes.
 Aromatics have also been used for centuries by Ancient Chinese civilizations.
 In Ayurveda which is the traditional medical system of India and uses dried and fresh
herbs as important aspects of treatment and later by the Greeks and the Roman
civilizations.
 The Greeks found that the fragrance of some flowers was stimulating while others had
relaxing properties. Using olive oil as the base they infused the aroma from the herbs or
flowers for both cosmetic and medicinal purposes.
 The Greeks started using a perfume called "Megaleion" about four or five hundred years
before Christ, which was also capable of healing wounds and reducing inflammation.
 the Frenchman Maurice Gatte Fosse introduced aromatherapy as we know it today.
 In brief, aromatherapy is the use of volatile plant oils, including essential oils, for
psychological and physical well-being.
 Although the term aromatherapy was not used until the 20th Century, the foundations of
aromatherapy date back thousands of years.
 Aromatherapy is the art, and science, of using plant essences, called essential oils, to
gently bring about change in body, mind and spirit.
 It can assist in reducing stress, bring relief to muscular aches and pains, help with skin
care and skin related problems, boost the immune system, lift spirit etc.
 The selection of which oils are appropriate for each individual depends on many factors,
hence the word 'holistic', meaning whole. Aromatherapy is an alternative field of
medicine used for the treatment or prevention of diseases.
 It involves use of herbal oils. Aromatherapy is the practice of using volatile plant oils,
including essential oils, for psychological and physical well-being.
 Essential oils, the pure essence of a plant, have been found to provide both psychological
and physical benefits when used correctly and safely.
 The Essential Oil Profiles area details over 90 essential oils. Absolutes, CO2s and
Hydrosols are also commonly utilized in aromatherapy.
 Aromatherapy activates the limbic system and emotional centers of the brain, activate
thermal receptors, and kill microbes and fungi.
 Aromatherapy is used in the treatment of various diseases such as bronchitis, fatigue,
migraines, respiratory ailments, acne, arthritis, muscular aches and pains, cystitis, cold
and flu.
 Aromatherapy also encourages emotional peace and calm with a gently calming effect
on mind, body and emotions.
 Aromatherapy is a generic term that refers to any of the various traditions that make use
of essential oils sometimes in combination with other alternative medical practices and
spiritual beliefs.
 Popular use of these products includes massaging products, medicine, or any topical
application that incorporates the use of essential oils to their products.
 Essential oils--being the true concentrated essence of the plant material from which they
are derived--are potent; thus, while some might seem a bit costly, you will find that even
a drop or two can create a remarkable effect.
 Synergy--the magic of one plus one becoming something even more effective than each
single element--is often the real secret behind aromatherapy's art.

Aromatherapy is a type of alternative medicine practice utilizing fragrant/aromatic

essential oils that are derived from a wide variety of healing plants. When inhaled or
applied to the skin, therapeutic-grade essential oils (also sometimes called volatile oils)
have been shown to help people overcome various health problems without the need for
medications.
 FACTS ABOUT HOW ESSENTIAL OILS WORK:
 Plants contain certain beneficial chemicals as a means of protecting themselves, including
to ward off insects or rodents, and to defend themselves from bacteria or viruses.
 The active ingredients within the oils are taken directly from high yields of medicinal
plants or herbs through a process known as distillation, and then mixed with alcohol to
preserve their strength. The finished result is a very concentrated oily formula that can be
mixed with other substances.
 Because they’re very strong, essential oils used in aromatherapy practices are usually
combined with a carrier oil, such almond, jojoba or coconut oil, before being applied
directly to the skin.
 AROMATHERAPY CAN BE PERFORMED IN SEVERAL DIFFERENT WAYS:
 Diffusing a combination of essential oils into the air (or just one single oil)
 Inhaling oils through the nostrils directly or on a cloth from the bottle
 Receiving massage therapy utilizing oils
 Soaking in an oil-infused bath
 Rubbing oils directly onto the skin
 Research shows that when used at home, most people use aromatherapy oil candles,
apply natural products containing oils to their skin or add oils directly to a soaking
bath/warm shower.
 What types of plants produce popular essential oils used in aromatherapy?
 Herbs like rosemary, thyme, oregano or peppermint
 Leaves from eucalyptus plants
 Grasses, such as lemongrass
 Fennel seeds
 Zest from fruits such as oranges, grapefruit or lemon
 Flowers, including rose or geranium
 Wood or bark from trees including cedar or pine, sandal wood
 Roots from ginger

 Benefits from Aromatherapy?

What is aromatherapy used for? Aromatherapy has been studied in connection with
improving both short-term health problems, along with more serious disorders. Research
shows that anyone with the following health conditions can likely benefit from
aromatherapy:

 Chronic stress or anxiety

 Depression

 Insomnia and trouble sleeping

 Muscle pain

 Joint pain

 Respiratory infections

 Digestive upset

 PMS or menopause symptoms

 Skin problems or disorders, including bites, rashes, bruising, cellulite or acne

 Blood sugar fluctuations

 Cancer

 Fatigue
A growing pool of both human and animal studies has shown that aromatherapy oils can have
sedative and stimulant effects, plus positive effects on the immune system and central nervous
system. Recently, studies conducted using functional imaging scans have showed that fragrant
aromatherapy oils have positive effects on the primitive region in the brain called the limbic
system, which helps control both emotional responses and behaviors.

The key to achieving results from aromatherapy is to use pure, therapeutic-grade oils rather than
those with synthetic ingredients or fragrances. The effectiveness of aromatherapy practices
always depends on the quality of the oils used, plus the dosage.

Who Benefits from Aromatherapy?

What is aromatherapy used for? Aromatherapy has been studied in connection with improving
both short-term health problems, along with more serious disorders. Research shows that anyone
with the following health conditions can likely benefit from aromatherapy:

 Chronic stress or anxiety

 Depression

 Insomnia and trouble sleeping

 Muscle pain

 Joint pain

 Respiratory infections

 Digestive upset

 PMS or menopause symptoms

 Skin problems or disorders, including bites, rashes, bruising, cellulite or acne

 Blood sugar fluctuations

 Cancer

 Fatigue

A growing pool of both human and animal studies has shown that aromatherapy oils can have
sedative and stimulant effects, plus positive effects on the immune system and central nervous
system. Recently, studies conducted using functional imaging scans have showed that fragrant
aromatherapy oils have positive effects on the primitive region in the brain called the limbic
system, which helps control both emotional responses and behaviors.

The key to achieving results from aromatherapy is to use pure, therapeutic-grade oils rather than
those with synthetic ingredients or fragrances. The effectiveness of aromatherapy practices
always depends on the quality of the oils used, plus the dosage.
 Aromatherapy is the
practice of using volatile plant
oils, including essential oils, for
psychological and physical
well-being. Essential oils, the
pure essence of a plant, have
been found to provide both
psychological and physical
benefits when used correctly
and safely. The Essential Oil
Profiles area details over 90
essential oils. Absolutes, CO2
and Hydrosols are also
commonly utilized in aromatherapy. Although essential oils, CO2 extracts and absolutes
are distilled by different methods.

In addition to essential oils, aromatherapy encourages the use of other complementary

natural ingredients including cold pressed vegetable oils, jojoba (a liquid wax), hydrosols, herbs,
milk powders, sea salts, sugars (an exfoliant), clays and muds. Products that include synthetic
ingredients are frowned upon in holistic aromatherapy. It is important to note that perfume oils
also known as fragrance oils (and usually listed as "fragrance" on an ingredient label) are not the
same as essential oils. Fragrance oils and perfume oils contain synthetic chemicals and do not
provide the therapeutic benefits of essential oils.

Aromatherapy involves the therapeutic use of essential oils—concentrated oils extracted from
various parts of aromatic plants (e.g., flower, stem, leaf, root, bark) with the intent to calm,
balance, and rejuvenate mind, body, and spirit. In general, essential oils are derived from plants
through steam distillation
 EXAMPLE OF THERAPEUTIC
SR.NO METHOD OF USE
MEDICINAL PLANTS ACTIVITY

Chamomile, Ginger, Lavender, Rosemary, Rose, Massage, bath, inhalation,

1. Analgesic (Pain-Relieving)
Sweet Marjoram perfume
Chamomile, Clary Sage, Eucalyptus, Lavender, Massage, bath, inhalation,
2. Anti-Inflammatory
Peppermint, Petitgrain, Rose, Sandalwood perfume
Chamomile, Clary Sage, Geranium, Juniper
Massage, bath, inhalation,
3. Berry, Lemon, Peppermint, Rosemary, Ylang Relaxing
perfume
Ylang
Chamomile, Clary Sage, Eucalyptus, Geranium,
4. Juniper Berry, Lavender, Petitgrain, Rosemary, Uplifting Massage, bath, inhalation,
Rose, Sandalwood, Ylang Ylang
Eucalyptus, Lavender, Patchouli, Peppermint,
5. Decongestant bath, inhalation,
Pine, Rosemary
Bergamot, Cedarwood, Cypress, Frankincense,
Massage, bath, inhalation,
6. Geranium Lavender, Marjoram, Myrrh, Neroli, Anxiety
perfume
Orange , Rose
Chamomile, Jasmine, Patchouli, Rose and Massage, bath, inhalation,
7. Anger
Ylang Ylang perfume
Massage, bath, inhalation,
8. Frankincense, Orange and Sandalwood Scents to Relieve Apathy
atomizer, perfume
Apply a few drops of essential
9. Lavender, Sandalwood and Tea Tree Abrasions
oil directly to cleansed area

Massage, bath, inhalation,

10. Confidence: Frankincense, Jasmine, Patchouli Scents to Encourage
atomizer, perfume
and Sandalwood

Bergamot, Clary Sage, Geranium,

Massage, bath, inhalation,
Grapefruit, Jasmine, Lavender, Lemon, Lemon Scents to Alleviate
11. atomizer, perfume
Balm, Neroli, Orange, Petitgrain, Rose Depression
Geranium, Sandalwood,
Atomizer, perfume, massage,
12. Scents to Calm Irritability
Chamomile, Geranium (Rose), Neroli and Rose bath

Scents to Improve
13. Bay Laurel, Jasmine, Lavender, Lemon and Atomizer, perfume, inhalation
Memory
Rosemary

Atomizer, perfume, inhalation,

14. Cypress, Fir, Marjoram, Rosemary Scents to Relieve Sorrow
massage, bath

Bergamot, Chamomile, Geranium Facial wash, compress, steam

15. Acne
(Rose), Lavender, Lemon, Lime, Tea Tree facial, facial massage
Bath, chest massage, inhalation
16. Cajeput, Clary Sage, Eucalyptus Asthma
on tissue or cotton ball

17. Eucalyptus, Juniper and Rosemary Arthritis Bath, massage

 Foot bath, compress, direct
18. Lemongrass and Tea Tree Athlete’s Foot
application

19. Chamomile, Lavender and Tea Tree Boils Compress, direct application

Cold compress, direct

20. Burns (minor) application of lavender oil &
Chamomile, Geranium (Rose), Lavender aloe vera gel

21. Circulation (poor) Massage, bath

Chamomile, Fennel, Lemon, Neroli, Peppermint,
Rosemary

Cajeput, Eucalyptus, Inhalation, atomizer, diffuser,

22. Colds
Peppermint, Rosemary, Sandalwood, Tea Tree bath, chest massage

Jasmine, Rose, Sandalwood, Vanilla and Ylang Scents to Stimulate atomizer, perfume, massage,
23.
Ylang (Aphrodisiac): bath

Bergamot,Chamomile, Cinnamon, Clary

Scents to Treat Stress,
Sage, Clove, Frankincense, Lavender, Lemon, Atomizer, perfume, massage,
24. Nervous Tension &
Marjoram, Myrrh, Neroli, Nutmeg, Orange, bath
Insomnia
Sandalwood, Vanilla and Ylang Ylang

Chamomile, Cypress, Lavender, Marjoram,

25. Cramps: Bath, massage
Peppermint

Basil, Geranium Lavender, Neroli, Atomizer, diffuser,

26. Exhaustion:
Peppermint and Rosemary bath, massage, inhalation

27. Chamomile, Lemon and Peppermint Fever: Cold compress

Cold compress, temple & neck

28. Chamomile, Lavender, Marjoram and Peppermint Headache
massage

Inhalation, bath, massage,

29. Eucalyptus, Ginger, Lemon, Orange and Immune System
diffuser
Tea Tree

compress, inhalation, abdominal

30. Fennel, Ginger, Lavender, Orange, Indigestion /Heartburn:
massage
Peppermint
 Geranium (Rose), Lavender and Tea Tree
Cold compress,
31. Infections
direct application

Inhalation, atomizer, diffuser,

32. Eucalyptus, Lemon and Tea Tree Influenza:
bath, massage

Clary Sage,
33. Cypress, Marjoram and Peppermint Menstrual Cramps
Hot compress, bath

34. Orange and Peppermint Nausea: Atomizer, inhalation

Birch (Sweet), Black

35. Pepper, Cajeput, Chamomile, Eucalyptus, Muscular Pain: Hot compress, massage, bath
Lavender and Rosemary

Geranium Direct application (dilute

36. (Rose), Lavender, Peppermint and Sunburn: geranium and peppermint at rate
Tea Tree of 2%), cold compress, cool bath

Benzoin, Bergamot, Frankincense, Sandalwood

37. Throat Infection Massage, inhalation, diffuser
and Tea tree

AROMA OILS FOR COMMON PROBLEMS

1) Peppermint: Peppermint may be the most versatle of the essental oils. It can be used for an
abundance of oral and topical uses. Research has found peppermint can improve antbiotc
resistance and help heal the body from the overuse of prescripton antbiotcs and other
chemicals that afect the body. Peppermint is calming and provides a cooling sensaton. It can be
used topically in a carrier oil or loton to relieve sore muscles. It also has antmicrobial
propertes, which can help freshen bad breath and soothe digestve issues.

Benefits :
 Improves focus, energy, and concentraton
 Supports digeston and curbs appette
 Relieves muscle aches and pain
  Fights bad breath and odor
 Improves breathing by fghtng
 Respiratory and sinus infectons
 Antviral properties
 Reduces nausea,
 Acid refux, and bloating
Uses:
 Mix with coconut oil and rub topically on Sore muscles.
 Diffuse in air to improve focus and energy.
 Use on bottom of feet and chest to improve breathing and fight flu or infections.
 Mix with coconut oil and baking soda for homemade toothpaste.
 Put 1 drop in water to freshen breath and improve energy
 Take 1 drop in water to improve digestion and reduce nausea

2) Tea tree oil: Tea Tree oil, commonly known as Melaleuca alternifolia, can be used for
skin care for its cleansing effects –highly regarded as an antimicrobial and antiseptic
essential oil. Other varieties are alternifolia, cajuput, ericifolia, and quinquenervia. We
will focus on one (alternifolia)

Benefits:
 Powerful antifungal
 Antiviral
 Anti-parasitic
 Antimicrobial and antiseptic oil
 Ant-inflammatory actions
Uses:
 You can diffuse it in a diffuser
 Dilute with oil and place a drop in the palms of your hand and breath
 Apply topically diluted or in the palms of your hand and apply to locaton
 Sinus/lung infections
 Skin conditions (acne/sores)
 Tooth and gum disease
 Water retention/ hypertension
  Treat fungal infections(Candida, ringworm)

3) Lavender oil is well known for its soothing, calming properties. It can accelerate the
healing of burns, cuts, stings and other wounds. Russian scientist René Gattefossé
discovered the healing properties of lavender when he severely burned his arm and
immersed it in a vat of lavender essential oil. His tissue healed rapidly without scarring.

Benefits
 Relaxes body and reduces anxiety
 Heals wounds and burns
 Reduces high blood pressure and cholesterol
 Relieves insomnia
 Heals skin disorders
 Supports hormone balance
 May help reduce blood fat/ cholesterol
 Antiseptic, antifungal, ant- inflammatory

Uses
 Rub on neck in evening to relax body and improve sleep
 Add with Epsom salts to bath to restore body after a challenging day
 Apply to cuts, scrapes, rashes, burns, and wounds
 Diffuse in the air to relax and improve mood
 Put on as fragrance to replace chemical perfumes

Lemon is best known for its ability to cleanse toxins from the body and can be used to stimulate
lymph drainage, rejuvenate energy, purify skin, repel bugs, and freshen clothes. Recent research
indicates lemon oil has powerful cleansing properties. According to a study published in the
International Journal of Food Microbiology last year, lemon oil may actually be the most
powerful ant-microbial agent of all the essential oils. Lemon essential oil comes from the lemon
peel, which is the most nutritious part of the lemon, but is absent from most diets. Another study
published in Experimental Biology and Medicine found that breathing in the scent of lemon
essential oils improved neurological activity that promotes the breakdown of body fat.
Benefits:
 Cleanses body and lymphatic system
 May improve weight loss and/or
 reduce cellulite
 Improves memory
 Supports immunity, combats tumor growth
 Kills harmful bacteria
 Improves mood and reduces anxiety

Uses:
 Put 1 to 2 drops in water to freshen breath
 Take 1 drop three times daily as supplement to promote cleansing and metabolism
 Diffuse for a pleasant citrus scent and to uplift mood
 Rub on hands in place of hand sanitizer for anti-microbial benefits
 Put 1 to 2 drops in yogurt or smoothie to enhance favor
 Mix with olive oil as natural cleaning product
 Mix with baking soda as a natural teeth whitener

4) Eucalyptus Globulus : for centuries, Australian Aborigines used the disinfecting leaves
to cover wounds due to the powerful antimicrobial agent in this oil. The eucalyptol agent in
this oil is used in many antiseptic mouth rinses. It is often used for the respiratory system.
According to Jean Valner, MD, a solution of 2 percent eucalyptus oil sprayed in the air will
kill 70 percent of ambient staph bacteria and some surgeons still use solutions of eucalyptus
oil in surgical dressings.

Benefits
 Expectorant
 Mucolytic
 Antimicrobial
 Antibacterial
 Antifungal
 Antiviral
Uses:
 Respiratory/sinus infections place in diffuser
 Decongestant
 Rheumatism/arthritis
 Soothes sore muscles diluted in oil
 Always test for skin sensitivity.
 Dilute with vegetable or coconut oil if necessary.
 Read label before using essential oils.
 Keep bottles tightly closed and store in cool, dark place away from children

Carrier oil : is a vegetable oil derived from the fatty portion of a plant, usually from the seeds,
kernels or the nuts. If applied to the skin undiluted, essential oils, absolutes, CO2s and other
concentrated aromatics can cause severe irritation, sensitization, redness or burning or other
reactions in some individuals. Carrier oils are used to dilute essential and other oils prior to
topical application.

The term carrier oil is derived from their purpose in carrying the essential oil onto the skin. Aloe
vera gel and unscented body lotion are also commonly used as "carriers." For the scope of this
article, however, we will be focusing upon the use of natural vegetable oils as carriers.

Each carrier oil offers a different combination of therapeutic properties and characteristics. The
choice of carrier oil can depend on the therapeutic benefit being sought.

Natural lotions, creams, body oils, bath oils, lip balms and other moisturizing skin care products
are also made using vegetable (carrier) oils. From a simple essential oil/carrier oil blend to a
more complex natural lotion, your choice of carrier oil can make a difference in the therapeutic
properties, color, overall aroma and shelf life of your final product.

Essential Oils vs. Carrier Oils

Essential oils are distilled from the leaves, bark, roots and other aromatic portions of a botanical.
Essential oils evaporate and have a concentrated aroma. Carrier oils, on the other hand, are
pressed from the fatty portions (seeds, nuts, kernels) and do not evaporate or impart their aroma
as strongly as essential oils. Carrier oils can go rancid over time, but essential oils do not.
Instead, essential oils "oxidize" and lose their therapeutic benefits, but they don't go rancid.

Vegetable Oils are Also Known as Carrier Oils or Base Oils

The term carrier oil is generally limited to use within the practice of aromatherapy. In natural
skin care, carrier oils are typically referred to as vegetable oils, fixed oils or base oils. Not all
fixed oils/base oils are vegetable oils. Emu oil (from the emu bird) and fish (marine) oils are also
classified as fixed/base oils, but these animal-based oils are generally not used for aromatherapy
work.

Examples of Vegetable Oils that are commonly used as Carrier Oils in Aromatherapy:

Apricot Kernel Oil Olive Oil

Avocado Oil Peanut Oil
Almond Oil Pecan Oil
Camellia Seed Oil (Tea Oil) Pomegranate Seed Oil
Coconut Oil, Fractionated Rose Hip Oil
Coconut Oil, Virgin Sesame Oil
Cranberry Seed Oil Sunflower Oil
Evening Primrose Oil Watermelon Seed Oil
Grapeseed Oil Hemp Seed Oil
Hazelnut Oil Jojoba
Kukui Nut Oil Meadow foam Oil

Processing Method

Shop for carrier oils that have been cold pressed or cold expeller pressed. This indicates that the
oil has been pressed from the fatty portions of the botanical without the use of added heat. The
process can still generate heat due to the friction of the method, but cold expeller pressed oils are
processed under conditions that keep the heat to a minimum. Oils that simply say expeller
pressed have not been processed to maintain low heat levels. When oils are processed without
cool conditions, the high temperature degree and duration of the processing method can harm the
fragile nutrients in the oil.

Nutrients

Carrier oils can contain fat soluble vitamins, minerals and other nutrients. Seabuckthorn Berry
Oil, for instance, has such a high ratio of beta carotene that the oil is orange and is amongst the
most vivid of oils. Oils that naturally contain tocopherols (Vitamin E) act as anti-oxidants which
are both helpful to the skin and generally help extend the shelf life of the oil.

Essential Fatty Acids

Essential Fatty Acids are fatty acids that our bodies cannot manufacture and need to get from our
diets. When applied topically, they are very nourishing to our skin. Carrier oils vary in their ratio
and specific EFAs that they contain. EFAs are a benefit to the skin, but they also can make an oil
more fragile and prone to quicker rancidity. See the Essential Fatty Acidsarticle for more
information.

Price

Carrier oils can vary greatly in price based on several factors: The botanical it's made from, how
it was processed, if it's organic, the quantity that you're purchasing, and the source that you're
purchasing it from.

Organic

Organic carrier oils generally cost more than conventional oils. When purchasing organic carrier
oils, verify if the oil is certified.

Color

Color doesn't always matter when selecting a carrier oil for simple blends, but it can matter if
you are making more elaborate recipes where the color of your final product is important to you.

Aroma

The aroma of some carrier oils can compete or conflict with the aroma of the essential oils in
your desired blend.

Viscosity: Viscosity is a measurement of the resistance of a liquid to movement and flow. For
our purposes in comparing carrier oils, I keep things simple by defining them as having a "thin,"
"medium" or "thick" viscosity.

Absorption/Feel

This is a rather subjective evaluation of how thoroughly and quickly an oil penetrates the skin,
and if it makes the skin feel oily after application.

Shelf Life
Carrier oils vary in how long they last before oxidizing and becoming rancid. When purchasing
carrier oils, estimate the quantity of oil that you think you'll use within the lifetime of the oil. See
the Carrier Oils and Rancidity section of this article for information on shelf life and rancidity.

Avoid Mineral Oil

Mineral oil and petroleum jelly are byproducts of petroleum production. They are not of natural,
botanical origin and are not used within the scope of holistic aromatherapy. Mineral oil is used in
baby oils and many commercially available moisturizers because it is an inexpensive oil to
manufacture. It, however, can clog pores, prevent the skin from breathing naturally, prevent
essential oil absorption, prevent toxins from leaving the body through the natural process of
sweating, and I've read reports that it can be absorbed into the body and block vitamins from
properly being utilized. These same concerns apply to petroleum jelly.

Storing Carrier Oils

For fragile carrier oils or for those that you will be keeping for a long duration, store them in
dark glass bottles with tight fitting tops, and store them in a cool, dark location. Amber or cobalt
Boston round bottles are ideal.

If you will be using up an oil well before its lifespan, it really doesn't need to be transferred to
dark glass. When you purchase carrier oils, the supplier may have packaged it in a plastic
(PET/HDPE) bottle. This doesn't mean that the oil is inferior. Often suppliers use plastic bottles
to save packaging and shipping costs and because many customers use up the oils shortly after
purchase. Unlike with essential oils which should always be stored in glass (essential oils can
dissolve the plastic), carrier oils can be stored in plastic.

Most carrier oils can be stored in the refrigerator, and this can help prolong the lifespan of fragile
oils like Borage Seed Oil. Avocado Oil, however, should not be stored in the refrigerator. Oils
stored in the refrigerator may solidify or turn cloudy and will need time to return to room
temperature prior to use.

Carrier Oils and Rancidity

Essential oils do not go rancid. Carrier oils, however, do become rancid over time. The level of
natural fatty acids, tocopherols, method of extraction and other characteristics of an oil all can
affect how quickly an oil becomes rancid. If you come across a carrier oil that has a strong, bitter
aroma, the carrier oil may have gone rancid. If you can, compare the aroma of the oil that you
suspect is rancid with the same botanical oil that you know is fresh.

Carrier oils that you purchase should be natural and unadulterated. Exceptions include buying
carrier oils that have natural Vitamin E added. Vitamin E, often listed as tocopherols acts as a
natural preservative.
Vegetable Butters and Other Ingredients As Carriers

Vegetable butters are not carrier oils, but the beneficial properties of vegetable butters like Cocoa
Butter and Shea Butter make them lipids that are suitable for use in aromatherapy.

Vegetable butters are similar to vegetable oils but are solid at room temperature. Vegetable
butters are processed by a wide variety of methods, so it's especially important to check the
method of extraction when shopping for butters. Strive to use butters that are cold pressed.

APPLICATIONS OF AROMATHERAPY

1. Promotes Relaxation

Many studies have shown that certain essential oils used in aromatherapy practices, including
lavender and chamomile, can help people who feel stressed or anxious to relax. The scent of
lavender is believed to have a practically universal calming effect that lowers activation of the
sympathetic nervous system, responsible for the fight or flight response and physical symptoms,
such as sweaty palms or a racing heart.

Results from study was found that patients who received aromatherapy reported significantly
greater improvement in their mood and perceived levels of anxiety and felt less anxious and
more positive immediately following the therapy.

If you’re new to aromatherapy, a simple way to begin is adding several drops of

relaxing essential oils for anxiety to a warm bath. For example, five to seven drops of lavender
added to a soaking bath (sometimes also with Epsom salt) is a common way to help manage
daily stress.

2. Helps Improve Sleep Quality

Because many aromatherapy oils help people unwind and feel less stressed, they can be very
useful for making you feel sleepier before bedtime. Those with insomnia, anxiety, or
even restless leg syndrome and hot flashes that strike during the night can benefit from sleep-
inducing essential oils, includinglavender oil, chamomile, rose, vetiver and ylang ylang.

An hour or so prior to going to sleep, try diffusing essential oils in your bedroom using either an
aromatherapy candle, electronic diffuser or oil burner. Diffusing aromatherapy oils works by
releasing very tiny particles into the air that can be directly inhaled through the nostrils, where
they travel to the brain and are able to cross the blood-brain barrier. Adding about five to
10 drops to a diffuser in your home or office can help create a calm environment, plus make a
room smell great.

3. Treats Respiratory Issues

Certain aromatherapy oils have antiseptic properties that help cleanse the air of bacteria, fungus
and mold that can contribute to respiratory problems, such as congestion, coughing or sneezing.

Research shows that using citrus oils in aromatherapy practices can help improve overall
immune function and reduce fatigue associated with depressive states. It’s been found that
aromatic oils, such as orange and lemon (those with a citrus fragrance), can restore stress-
induced immune-suppression and help restore homeostatic balance. Essential oils for
depression and citrus oils are also beneficial for improving mental health by stimulation of the
sensory system called the “olfactory system,” which controls one’s sense of smell.

When citrus oils were given to 12 depressive patients, they showed normalized neuroendocrine
hormone levels and improved immune function that was comparable to the effects of
antidepressants. (4)

Other than diffusing oils in your home, you can inhale aromatic oils directly from the bottle or
rub some directly onto your chest or neck so you can breath in the particles. There are some
great essential oils for allergies and essential oils for sore throat and other respiratory
problems. Essential oils that can help you overcome sinus infections, allergies, colds, the flu or
coughs, and fatigue include eucalyptus, peppermint, frankincense, rosemary, myrrh, lemon,
oregano and tea tree.
4. Improves Skin Health

Diluted essential oils can be spritzed onto the skin or scalp to reduce acne, dandruff, cellulite, toe
fungus, itching, inflammation from bites, rashes or to improve wound healing. Tea tree
oil (Melaleuca alternifolia) is one of the most popular oils for treating skin problems since it has
antibacterial, antiseptic, antifungal and other cleansing qualities. (5)

Other aromatherapy oils for skin (including essential oils for acne) include lavender, clary sage,
juniper berry, lemon, orange, helichrysum and frankincense. To make a homemade
aromatherapy oil spritzer that you can spray into the troubled area of your skin, add 10–20 drops
of oil to a spray bottle containing about four ounces of water.

Use several sprays at one time on your skin, and keep what you don’t use right away for later
use. You can also use the same oils on your skin or scalp directly (including making
a homemade essential oil shampoo) or spray them throughout your home for other benefits.

5. Can Help Manage Symptoms or Side Effects of Cancer

Aromatherapy is used by patients with cancer primarily as supportive care during treatment, for
stress reduction or pain management, or simply for general well-being. It’s common for people
battling cancer to try different methods of complementary treatments (including massage
therapy, meditation or acupuncture), in which aromatherapy oils can be utilized.

What is aromatherapy used for in cancer patients? Various aromatherapy oils are capable of
lowering symptoms associated with cancer or hospice care, such as nausea, fatigue, aches or
pains, depression, and insomnia. Essential oils that can help you cope with cancer symptoms, or
side effects caused from cancer treatments, include frankincense, ginger, lavender, geranium,
rose, neroli and clary sage.

One study published in the American Journal of Hospice and Palliative Carefound that
aromatherapy helped hospice patients decrease pain, anxiety and depression, and promote an
increased sense of well-being. (6) The study measured the responses of 17 cancer hospice
patients to humidified lavender essential oil used in 60-minute aromatherapy sessions. Following
aromatherapy sessions, results reflected a positive change in blood pressure and pulse, along
with reduced symptoms of pain and emotional upset.
6. Soothes Pain and Inflammation

To help soothe tight or tense muscles, achy joints, inflamed tissue injuries, or pain from
headaches, a combination of different aromatherapy oils can be inhaled or applied to the troubled
area . Popular essential oils for arthritis pain include ginger, myrrh, turmeric and orange. You
can use other aromatherapy oils for nearly any source of pain, including essential oils for
headaches, such as peppermint, spearmint, rosemary and frankincense.

7. Helps Reduce Fatigue and Raise Alertness

An International Journal of Neuroscience study involving 40 patients experiencing depressed

moods and mental fatigue found that aromatherapy positively affects alertness, competency on
testing (in this case regarding math problems) and improves overall mood. Forty adults were
given three minutes of aromatherapy either using one of two aromas, lavender (considered a
relaxing odor) or rosemary (considered a stimulating odor). Participants completed math
computations and surveys regarding their mood before and after the therapy.

Those exposed to lavender aromatherapy showed increased beta power, suggesting increased
drowsiness, but they also reported decreases in depressed moods and feeling more relaxed.
Although they reported feeling more drowsy, the lavender group participants actually performed
the math computations faster and more accurately following aromatherapy. The rosemary group
showed decreased frontal alpha and beta power, suggesting increased alertness. They also had
lower state anxiety scores, reported feeling more relaxed and alert, and were faster at completing
the math problems. (7)

8. Improves Libido

Aromatherapy has a long history of use for improving libido, raising energy through increased
blood flow and treating sexual dysfunctions. Popular aromatherapy oils for improving
hormonal balance, “feminine power” and sexual health include clary sage, sandalwood,
rosemary, geranium, ylang ylgang and neroli.

9. Improves Digestion and Lowers Nausea

Aromatherapy oils, such as ginger, turmeric, grapefruit, peppermint, lemon, chamomile and
eucalyptus, can help curb acid reflex, ulcers, nausea, indigestion, morning sickness or stomach
aches due to PMS.

A 2015 study published in the Journal of Basic Physiology and Pharmacologyfound

that turmeric (Curcuma longa) and ginger (Zingiber officianale) essential oils, which are widely
used in Asian countries as traditional medicine and food ingredients, have strong
gastroprotective activities, including anti-ulcer potential.

Both supply high levels of antioxidant enzymes, such as glutathione peroxidase, superoxide
dismutase, catalase and glutathione, which have been shown to reduce necrosis, erosion and
hemorrhage of the stomach wall, significantly reducing stomach pains.