Jo's Health Corner: Eucalyptus

Essential Oils for Exhaustion

Underlying physiological reasons such anemia, hypothyroidism and rheumatoid arthritis are some things that may cause exhaustion. It is also important to make sure that the exhaustion is not caused by overwork, excessive drinking, insomnia or that you're recovering from a bacterial or viral infection that would make you tired.

40% of the cases of tiredness/exhaustion cases are caused by lifestyle and psychological reasons. If these are recognized they can be worked on. It's a good idea to start with the working environment, is it too noisy, are you sitting too close to the photocopiers, do you use the computer all day, are you sitting in a good chair, is the lighting to dim, are you sitting close to the air vents?

Essential oils have historically been used for exhaustion, tiredness, and fatigue for a long time. The oils recommended for exhaustion can be used in all the usual way. At the bottom of this post you'll see some links to tips on how to use essential oils.

Worwood recommends the following:

Essential oils to help in cases of exhaustion:

Bergamot, eucalyptus globulus, eucalyptus radiata, rosemary, black pepper, cypress, grapefruit, ginger, marjoram, frankincense, lemon, cardamon and pine.

As you notice, some oils listed are traditionally used to calm, but Worwood says that overstimulation in tiredness can result in increased tiredness instead of relief from it.

Essential oils to help in cases of nervous exhaustion:

Juniper, rosemary, Roman chamomile, clary sage, lavender, petitgrain, orange, neroli and marjoram.

Essential oils to help in cases of general mental fatigue:

Basil, Eucalyptus Piperata, Eucalyptus Citridora, lemon, rosemary, peppermint, petitgrain,

Essential oils to help in cases of mental tiredness:

Marjoram, peppermint, clary sage, rosemary, lavender and grapefruit.

Essential oils to help in cases of intellectual fatigue:

Rosemary, cypress, black pepper, ginger, peppermint, lemon, grapefruit and basil.

Important

This information is for educational purposes only, and is not meant to diagnose or prescribe. If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or suffer from a medical condition, consult with your health care practitioner prior to using essential oils. Be careful when using essential oils with hormonal activity and don’t hesitate to contact a professional. Make sure that you look over the safefy information before you start using essential oils.

Before you leave:

I recommend that you always perform a skin patch test when you try a new oil.

Check out my safety page to make sure you are aware of any contraindications before you use essential oils. Some oils are not suitable when suffering from certain conditions. Also, Read this Before You Start Using Essential oils. Some oils should not be applied prior to sun exposure so make sure you check this list before spending time in the sun.

Not sure how to apply the oils? Visit these pages to learn how to apply the oils:

Topical Application

Inhaling Essential Oils

Are You Diffusing the Oils Correctly?

How to Dilute Essential Oils

Vita Flex Technique

If you're new to essential oils you might want to check out my Getting Started Guide.

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Johanna is an aromatherapist and she is passionate about educating people about health, essential oils, real food, natural remedies, and nutrition so they make healthier choices in their lives.

Follow Johanna on twitter and facebook for more health tips and information.

References

The Fragrant Mind, Valerie Ann Worwood, New World Library, 1996

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Steam Inhalation for Dry and Moist Cough

Here is a steam inhalation that historically been used for both dry and moist coughs.

Use a facial steamer or put hot water in a bowl of water,

add 1 drop Cedarwood, 1 drop eucalyptus and 1 drop hyssop.

Hold the head 8 inches from the bowl with a towel over head to form a tent, and inhale. You want to make sure that you inhale slowly and deeply with your eyes closed.

According to Valeri Cooksley, R.N, cypress, juniper, frankincense, lavender, myrrh, peppermint and sandalwood are other oils that are useful for coughs.

Before you leave:

I recommend that you always perform a skin patch test when you try a new oil.

Check out my safety page to make sure you are aware of any contrindications before you use essential oils. Some oils are not suitable when suffering from certain conditions. Also, Read this Before You Start Using Essential oils. Some oils should not be applied prior to sun exposure so make sure you check this list before spending time in the sun.

Not sure how to apply the oils? Visit these pages to learn how to apply the oils:

Topical Application

Inhaling Essential Oils

Are You Diffusing the Oils Correctly?

How to Dilute Essential Oils

Vita Flex Technique

If you're new to essential oils you might want to check out my Getting Started Guide.

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Source:

Valeri Gennari Cooksley, R.N (2002). Aromatherapy: soothing remedies to restore, rejuvenate,and heal. Prentice Hall Press

This post is linked to:
Wildcrafting Wednesday

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Essential Oils & Sinus Problems

Having sinus problems is very painful. I remember the first time I had a sinus infection, it was when my oldest son started daycare in Sweden when he was a year and a half. Unfortunately I didn't know anything about essential oils at that time. Over the years I have used essential oils successfully for sinus problems in our house. We have also changed the diet since then. I also learned from Steven Horne, the Herbalist, how to activate the healing when I feel a cold coming. So it doesn't happen very often that my family suffer from sinus problems anymore.

To activate healing
To activate the healing you need to give the body an energy boost to help it push the irritants out of the system. Herbs with pungent taste, such as capsicum, horseradish, ginger etc help generate wei qi energy. When you eat spicy food your eyes water, your mucus clear from your throat and lung, your nose runs and you start to perspire. You see, pungent herbs activate the energy that helps the body discharge whatever it is irritating it. So make them your best friends during a cold. As soon as you feel a cold coming on, stop eating, start drinking lots of fluid and start taking some of these pungent herbs.

Other tips

Check for inhalant or food intolerants.
Poor bowel function may be the cause.
Battaglia suggests to increase garlic, onion and ginger.
Eliminate sugar from your diet.
Avoid dairy.
Battaglia also suggests to make a sinus soup: vegetarian minestrone with added horseradish, hot peppers, garlic, and ginger.
Battaglia also suggests to use vitamin C to increase immunity against infection and to reduce mucus. He also suggests to add vitamin A since it increases the health of the epithelial tissue lining of the sinuses.

My favorites essential oils I've used for sinus problems
I have used different oils over the years, but one of my favorite is a Respiratory blend. I have also used an Antimicrobial oil successfully too. My son cleared his painful sinus congestion with a Pain Relieving blend within a day. I also like to use frankincense, especially if I don't have any of my favorite oil blends at home.

The Respirator blend contains the following oils:
Eucalyptus globulus leaf oil, myrtus communis oil, pinus sylvestris (pine) leaf oil, origanum majorana (marjoram) leaf oil, eucalyptus radiata leaf oil, eucalyptus citriodora leaf oil, lavandula angustifolia (lavender) oil, cupressus sempervirens oil, tsuga canadensis leaf oil, and mentha piperita (peppermint) oil.

The Antimicrobial blend contains the following oils:
Clove† (Syzygium aromaticum), lemon† (Citrus limon), cinnamon† (Cinnamomum verum), Eucalyptus radiata† and rosemary† (Rosmarinus officinalis CT 1,8 cineol).

The Pain Relieving blend contains the following oils:
Wintergreen (Gaultheria procumbens), helichrysum (Helichrysum italicum), clove (Syzygium aromaticum) and peppermint (Mentha piperita).

Some single oils I've used in the past
Peppermint, helichrysum, thyme linalol, rosemary, marjoram, pine, eucalyptus, ravensara, myrtle and ginger. These oils have also historically been used for sinus problems.

How I use essential oils for sinus problems

I like to use steam inhalations for sinus problems and it is really powerful. For steam inhalations I add a few drops of oil to hot but not boiling water and inhale. Most of the times I drape a towel over my head to increase the intensity. I bought an electric facial steamer and it works great for upper respiratory problems.
I also like to rub the oils on each side of the nose and over the sinus areas. It depends on the oil, some I may apply neat and others I mix with massage oil. I like to mix essential oils with some massage oil and put in a roll-on bottle, I use it frequently on my sinus areas throughout the day. This is great when I have to leave the house.
I've also put oils on the sinus Vita Flex points on bottom of the feet, this is especially handy when dealing with stronger oils or when using oils on children. Some oils such as peppermint and eucalyptus should not be applied on the facial areas of small children.
I also diffuse appropriate oils in my diffusers.
For a quick relief I may inhale straight from the bottle. I plug on side of the nose and inhale deeply and then I switch side.
I may also apply a couple of drops of oil on the inside of my hands, rub them together, and cup them over my nose and inhale deeply.
I've also used hot compresses over the sinus areas. (See at the bottom of page for how to make a compress)

Why I prefer to use blends
I prefer to use essential oil blends when possible since it will enhance the synergy between the oils, synergy is based on the fact that the whole is greater than the sum of the part. Essential oils with similar constituents can enhance activity. For example, research has shown a greater antimicrobial activity when oils were combined. Therefore, I like to mix several different oils into on blend for enhanced therapeutic value, and most of the times it is more economical for me to buy already blended oils.

How to make a compress

Place 5-15 drops of essential oils into a basin filled with warm water.

Agitate the water vigorously and let it stand for one minute.

Place a dry cloth on top of the water to soak up the oils that float on the surface. Wring out the cloth and apply on the body.

Before you leave:

I recommend that you always perform a skin patch test when you try a new oil.

If you're new to essential oils you might want to check out my Getting Started Guide.

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Johanna is an aromatherapist and she is passionate about educating people about health, essential oils, real food, natural remedies, and nutrition so they make healthier choices in their lives.
Follow Johanna on twitter and facebook for more health tips and information.

Photo credit

Sources:

Connie and Alan Higley, (Twelfth Edition, revised 2010). Reference Guide for Essential Oils. Abundant Health
Gary Young, ND (2006). Essential Oils, Integrative Medical Guide. Essential Science Publishing

Salvatore Battaglia (1995). The Complete Guide to Aromatherapy. The Perfect Potion Pty Ltd

This post is linked to:
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10 Versatile Essential Oils for Your Basic Aromatherapy Care Kit

There are many essential oils to choose between and it can be somewhat confusing to know what oils to start with. You don't need many bottles since you can easily enjoy the benefits of essential oils with only a couple of bottles. I always have lavender and tea tree on hand, and it is actually a very economical way to deal with minor cuts, wounds, scratches and insect bites. They are very versatile, fairly inexpensive, and together they make a great first aid kit.

Base care kit

I have narrowed it down to 10 single oils that I picked for their versatility and ability to deal with a variety of health complaints. Several essential oil companies have starting kits that contain most of these oils. I highly recommend to purchase a starting kit since it is normally cheaper than buying the individual oils.

10 versatile essential oils

Lavender

Lavender is an oil that I think should be in every home because it is an effective oil to a reasonable price. It has historically been useful in treating various nervous and psychological disorders due to its sedative and nervine effects. It has historically been used for things like migraine, depression, stress, insomnia, and nervous tension. If you were to pick only one oil for your first aid pick it should be lavender since it is the most versatile of all essential oils. Its antiseptic properties has historically been used for coughs, colds, catarrh, sinus, flu as well as wounds, burns and all types of pain.

Tea tree

Tea tree is an immune stimulant and has antimicrobial, expectorant and antiseptic properties. According to Battaglia, it has been proven to be active against all three categories of microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses and fungi. Tea tree has historically been used for wound healing, fungal infections, congestion, aches and pains, acne and dandruff.

Lemon

Lemon is highly antibacterial. According to Battaglia, it is able to stimulate the action of the white blood cells. Lemon has a purifying, uplifting and revitalizing aroma, and it clears the mind and sharpens the senses. It is a very pleasant and soothing oil. Research in Japan has proven its effect to improve the ability to concentrate.

The main constituent is limonene, which has been studied for it's anti-cancer effects.

In the book, The Practice of Aromatherapy: A Classic Compendium of Plant Medicines and Their Healing Properties, Valnet wrote that lemon is a tonic for supporting the nervous and sympathetic nervous system. Battaglia says, lemon also counteracts the acidity and makes the stomach more alkaline. It also has a tonic effect on the circulatory system. Historically lemon has been used in skin care due to its astringent effect.

Eucalyptus

Eucalyptus is expectorant, antibacterial and antiviral. It is best known as a decongestant. Eucalyptus has historically been used to treat respiratory problems like sinus problems, flu, bronchitis, and asthma. Eucalyptus increase oxygen to the cells in the body. It has also historically been used to relieve insect bites and muscular aches and pains. Eucalyptus has been recommended for treatments of headaches, neuralgia and debility. It has been used historically to reduce fever. Eucalyptus is effective as an insect repellent, and it has traditionally also been used to treat burns, wounds, blisters and cuts. It also makes a great antiseptic for when you clean, so you can add it to your cleaning water. More information about eucalyptus.

Rosemary

Rosemary is antifungal and antibacterial. It is a general stimulant and it also supports nerves and endocrine gland balance. It has also historicaly been used in treatments for muscular conditions, and makes a useful oil to add to the bath after a tiring day. According to Worwood, rosemary is used in the treatment of muscular sprains, arthritis, depression, fatigue, memory loss, migraine, headaches, diabetes, coughs and flu. It is also being used in natural hair care as well as in acne and cellulite treatments.

Clove

Clove is a powerful antimicrobial and it has a stimulating effect on the mind. It is not only a strong antiseptic, but it also has carminative and antispasmodic properties, meaning it helps stimulate digestion. It has historically been used to treat viral diseases, to stimulate digestion, relieve flatulence, and restore the appetite. Clove's anesthetic property has historically been used to ease toothache. The anti-inflammatory properties may be beneficial in rheumatoid arthritis.

According to Jean Valnet, MD, clove oil can prevent contagious disease, and may treat arthritis, bronchitis, colera, cystitis, cholera, dental infection, amoebic dysentery, diarrhea, tuberculosis, acne, fatigue, thyroid dysfunction, insect bites, hypertenstion, dermatitis, skin cancer, bacterial colitism sinusitis, sores, viral hepatitis, warts, and lymphoma. More information about clove essential oils.

Peppermint

The antispasmodic properties of peppermint have been confirmed in clinical trials. Peppermint is one of the most effective oils of the digestive system. The German Commission E Monographs recommends peppermint oil for obstructions of the bile ducts, gall bladder inflammations and severe liver damage.

Jean Valnet, MD studied peppermint's supportive effect on the liver and respiratory systems. It also has antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties. Peppermint helps the circulation as well. According to Worwood, this is a good oil for the treatment of indigestion, flu, catarrh, headaches, toothache, rheumatism, and migraines. It is also keeping the ants, mice, and fleas away. More information about peppermint essential oil.

Geranium

Geranium works on the emotions and is very useful for many medical conditions. Geranium essential oil has a wonderfully uplifting, calming, flowery scent. According to Battaglia, geranium has a balancing effect on the nervous system. He also says it is considered an ideal oil to maintain homeostasis of the body. According to Battaglia, its stimulating effect on the adrenal cortex has a regulatory effect on the hormonal system. It may therefore useful in treating PMS and menopausal problems. Geranium balances the sebum and is therefore useful for all skin conditions, but it is especially useful for sluggish, congested, and oily skin. According to Battaglia, geranium also dilates bile ducts for liver detoxification.

Chamomile

Chamomile is antiseptic and antibacterial, but it is often valued for its anti-inflammatory properties. It is used for the skin in Europe. It has historically been used to treat rheumatism. It has also traditionally been used by mothers to ease ear aches, soothe stomach aches and indigestion, and relieve tooth aches and teething pains. Roman chamomile may help calm restlessness and tension. It's anti-infectious properties benefit cuts, scrapes, and bruises.

According to Gary Young, chamomile neutralizes allergies and increases the ability of the skin to regenerate. Young also says chamomile can effectively minimize irritability and nervousness in children.

Chamomile is calming and relaxing and therefore is often used to combat depression, insomnia and stress. It is known to minimize anxiety, nervousness, and irritability. Chamomile has historically been used in treatment of burns, eczema, psoriasis, asthma, hay fever, migraines, sprains and strains. More about chamomile.

Thyme

Thyme is highly antimicrobial, anti-fungal, and antiviral. Thyme has historically been used for respiratory problems and digestive complains. It is often used in the prevention and treatment of infection, bronchitis, pertussis, asthma, laryngitis and tonsillitis. Thyme is a general tonic for the nerves and the stomach. It is a wonderful oil to use in the room diffuser when the flu goes around due to it's antiviral properties. Thyme also aids in the detoxification of the body.

I suggest that you invest in vegetable oils and/or aloe vera gel to dilute the essential oils with. A good diffuser is also recommended. There are many ways these essential oils can be used which make them perfect for a natural first aid kit.

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Johanna is an aromatherapist and she is passionate about educating people about health, essential oils, real food, natural remedies, and nutrition so they make healthier choices in their lives.
Follow Johanna on twitter and facebook for more health tips and information.

This post is linked to:
Fat Tuesday
Healthy 2day Wednesday
Frugal Days, Sustainable Ways
Wildcrafting Wednesday
Eco-Kids Tuesday

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Aromatic Compress for Bruising

My daughter fell last summer and bruised her shoulder. She was out running in the backyard and tripped over a rock. When she came in and said that she fell and she was hurt, I immediately grabbed for my oils. My husband looked at it and made sure nothing was broken.

I like to use aromatic compresses for minor things at home. According to Battaglia, some of the benefits of using a compress are:

that it may relieve lymphatic and fluid congestion.
may clear heat, fever, and inflammation.
may improve circulation and reduce pain.
may relieve tiredness.

Aromatic compresses are essential oils mixed with water, and applied to the skin with aid of a strip of gauze. Compresses can be either hot or cold.

Hot compresses are made with water that is as hot as can be tolerated. The hot compresses has historically been used to reduce muscular and rheumatic pain. It has also been used to draw out boils and splinters.

Cold compresses are made with ice water. According to Battaglia, its uses include treating sprains, swelling, fever, and to relieve stress.

The adult formula calls for 8-10 drops of oils, so for my 10 year old daughter I used half the amount oils.

4-8 oz. warm or cold water
5 drops essential oils

I decided to use a cold compress for my daughter, but first I applied an ice pack while I was fixing the water for the compress. After the third day I will switch to a hot compress. In between using the compresses 3 times a day,I add massage oil blend to the area.

I decided to use my favorite Pain Relieving blend that includes oils historically used for bruises. The ingredients in the blend are wintergreen, helichrysum, clove, and peppermint. This is a powerful blend of anti-inflammatory and analgesic essential oils historically used for reducing pain and inflammation. I would not use these oils on infants and very young children. It may cause skin sensitivity, so don't forget to perform a skin patch test before you need to use it.

If I didn't use the Pain Relieving Blend then I would have considered using oils such as peppermint, geranium, eucalyptus, lavender, fennel , rosemary and cypress. They have historically been used for bruising. These can be used as singles or mixed in a blend. The oils mentioned are oils that I would use on my 9 and 10 year old. The dilution chart will give you also give you information what oils to use for what age group.

My oldest son is playing football, and if there's severe bruising involved I add oils that stimulate the spleen, such as black pepper, chamomile and lavender as recommended by Battaglia. He also suggest other things to consider in bruising, like increase my son's intake of Vitamin C bioflavonoids, to make sure he avoids aspirin, and increases dark green leafy vegetables and fresh fruit high in vitamin C.

As always when it comes to aromatherapy, check the dilution page and the safety page.

This post is linked to:
Domestically Divine
Simple Lives Thursday
Your Green Resource

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Essential Oils & Children- Fever

A fever is a natural response by the body and is valuable in fighting infectious diseases. However, neurological damage can occur if the fever rises too high. Dr. Sear's has good information about fever and when it is time to take your child to the doctor. Remember to use good judgement and don't hesitate to seek medical help when you think it is needed. This information is not meant to prescribe or diagnose, it is only for information and education purposes only.

I don't bring out essential oils at the first sign of fever
As long as the fever is moderate I let the fever do the job it was meant to do for a few hours before I apply the essential oils. However, there were times when I applied the essential oils almost right away. One time my daughter was extremely hot and she didn't want to drink anything, and she felt really bad. I made her a compress and applied frequently to her forehead and successfully brought down the fever. You have to use your own judgement since each child is different, so don't hesitate to take your child to the doctor when sick.

How may essential oils help?
Essential oils are very cooling, and especially peppermint has historically been used for fever control. However, peppermint is not suitable for young children and should be used in a diffuser only. Other oils historically known to lower body temperature are lavender, chamomile, eucalyptus, basil and bergamot. This dilution chart will explain what oils are suitable for your child's age.

What do the experts say:
Historically aromatic compresses have been very useful in fevers but should not be used in children younger than three years old. The sponging technique has traditionally been used for high fever and according to Cooksley, can also be used on younger children. For severe feverish conditions, Worwood recommends wrapping the baby in a cool sheet that has been soaked in essential oil water.

Valerie Gennari Cooksley, suggests this compress:

Aromatic Compress (not to be used on children under three without advise from health care practitioner)
1 cup of ice water
1 drop eucalyptus oil
3 drops lavender
wash cloth
bowl
Add the water to a bowl. Add the essential oils and swish around to mix, soak the wash cloth and wring it out so it doesn't drip. Apply on the forehead, and reapply the compress once it is warm.

She also suggests this:
Aromatic Sponging
basin of tepid water
2 drops of chamomile oil
washcloth or sponge
Fill the basin with water and add the essential oils. Mix around, and soak the cloth or the sponge in the water. Make sure that the feverish child is lying on a towel. Starting from the neck down and sponge the body and re-soak the sponge as needed.

According to Worwood, for acute fevers, 10 drops of eucalyptus, Roman chamomile, and/or lavender can be used for the aromatic sponging.

Another benefit of using the essential oils when your child has fever is that they have other unique therapeutic properties that enhance the healing process. Oils like lavender and chamomile are very calming, and eucalyptus has powerful immune and respiratory actions.

Before you leave:

I recommend that you always perform a skin patch test when you try a new oil.

Not sure how to apply the oils? Visit these pages to learn how to apply the oils:

Topical Application

Inhaling Essential Oils

Are You Diffusing the Oils Correctly?

How to Dilute Essential Oils

Vita Flex Technique