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:
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.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
References
The Fragrant Mind, Valerie Ann Worwood, New World Library, 1996
1:44 AM |
Read more...
Essential Oils & Lymphedema
Lymphedema may be localized or generalized. Kahn says lymphedema may be due to a primary or secondary cause. The primary cause is also referred to as congenital, and the secondary cause is caused by a known condition which could be radiation or trauma, or removal of lymph nodes.
The Aromatherapy Treatment Strategy
The aromatherapy treatment is to reduce the swelling by stimulationg the lymph flow by using cool compresses and lymphatic drainage massage techniques. Kahn suggests to use essential oil such as fennel seed, juniper berry, and cypress for the compress. Lymphatic drainage is a gentle massage that assists the lymph flow, decrease pain, balance the central nervous system and boosts immunity. Kahn recommends to use laurus nobilis, lemon, rosemary, grapefruit, peppermint and lemon essential oils. These oils assist lymph fluid circulation and aid in elimination of wastes from the interstitial tissue.
The leg should be elevated. Kahn also suggests to incorporate deep breathing, yoga, self massage, nutritional and lifestyle advice. Aromatherapy baths are also recommended and they should not be too hot, the heat can cause filtration of fluids into the tissue and make the condition worse.
Kahn further says it is important to use pH balanced moisturizing lotion with essential oils such as tea tree and lavender to minimize the risk of infections.
Before you leave:
I recommend that you always perform a skin patch test when you try a new oil on your skin.
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:
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
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
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.
Follow Johanna on twitter and facebook for more health tips and information.
Sources:
Salvatore Battaglia (2003) The Complete Guide to Aromatherapy Second Edition.The International Centre of Holistic Aromatherapy.
3:59 PM |
Read more...
Essential Oils & The Lymphatic System
According to Battaglia, aromatherapy can help with some of the problems associated with the lymphatic system. Essential oils with diuretic, alterative, circulatory stimulant, bactericidal, antifungal and antiviral properties are most suitable.
What is the lymphatic system?
The lymphatic system is a network of superficial and deep vessels and can be found in all parts of the body except for the spinal column, brain, bone marrow and cartilage. The lymph capillaries, vessels, and and larger ducts transport the lymph and the lymph nodes are the filtering devices. The thymus, tonsils and the spleen are lymphatic organs and the breasts are mostly made up of lymphatic vessels and glands.
What's the function of the lymphatic system?
The lymphatic system has three major functions in the body:
- aid in providing immunological defenses
- draining excess fluids from the body cells
- absorbing and distributing fat soluble nutrients.
When it is not working well
Sometimes our lymphatic system is not working well and this condition is called congestion. The lymph is filled with waste products that has passed through the lymph nodes. It is the liver's responsibility to neutralize and eliminate a large number of toxins. Unfortunately, when the liver and the lymph nodes are unable to cope with the toxins, the toxins can leak through the mucous membranes and other emergency elimination sites. This leaking is commonly known as catarrh or inflammation of the mucous membranes.
Vital to life
Just because the lymph system is like a sewage system doesn't mean it is not vital to life, you see, when this system fails to function properly, excess toxins and fluid will build up in the body causing pain, infection, loss of energy and various diseases.
Okay, so let's talk about the essential oils.
Diuretics
According to Battaglia, diuretic essential oils are often used in conditions where water is retained in the body. Battaglia says the following oils have diuretic properties, which means they accelerate the detoxification process by stimulating kidneys.
~Grapefruit, fennel, lemon, juniper, cypress, tangerine, orange, and mandarin. Caution, excessive use of juniper has been known to cause kidney irritation.
Increasing leucocytosis
According to Battaglia, the following oils will increase the body's ability to make white blood cells:
~Lavender, rosemary, lemon, thyme and tea tree.
Blood cleansers, alteratives, detoxifiers or depuratives
According to Battaglia, most essential oils will stimulate phagocytosis, which means the ability of the white blood cells to ingest and clean up toxins and microbes. Battaglia refers to Mills, who says that by improving the functions of the eliminatory channels in the body the tissues may be cleansed. The remedies capable of doing so are referred to as blood cleansers, alteratives or depuratives. Battaglia lists the following oils as being alteratives, depuratives, blood cleanser or detoxifiers:
~ German and Roman Chamomile, sweet fennel, rosemary, lemon, lavender, geranium, juniper and angelica.
Stimulating lymph and tissue fluid circulation
Battaglia says essential oils such as grapefruit, juniper berry, orange, cold pressed lime, rosemary, peppermint and tangerine will stimulate the tissue and lymph fluid circulation.
Anti-fungal, antiviral and bactericidal
According to Battaglia, Jean Valnet lists these oils as being very useful:
~ Clove, niaouli, eucalyptus, thyme, lemon, cinnamon, sandalwood, lavender, peppermint and German chamomile as being very useful.
Circulatory stimulants
By stimulating the circulatory system you stimulate the flow of lymph. Battaglia says black pepper, rosemary or ginger may be used in a lymphatic massage blend.
The Essential Oils Desk Reference also lists myrtle, lemongrass and hyssop as essential oils that aid in detoxifying and stimulating the lymphatic system. The Reference Guide also lists ledum, Ledum groenlandicum, as being useful for inflamed lymph nodes.
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.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Source:
Connie and Alan Higley, (Twelfth Edition, revised 2010). Reference Guide for Essential Oils. Abundant Health
The
Essential Oils Desk Reference. (Fifth edition 2011). Life Science
Publishing
Salvatore
Battaglia (1995). The Complete Guide to Aromatherapy. The Perfect
Potion Pty Ltd
Wildcrafting Wednesday
3:25 PM |
Read more...
Lemon ~ Citrus limon
Origin
Lemon is grown in different regions around the world.
Aroma
Lemon has a sharp, clean, and refreshing citrus aroma. Gary Young says it promotes clarity of thought and purpose, as well as healing, purification, physical energy and health.
Historical and traditional uses
Columbus brought lemon and orange seeds to Spain in 1493. Spain quickly became one of the largest producers of lemon. Already in 1692 distilled and expressed lemon could be bought in Paris.
Indications, therapeutic actions and traditional uses
Research in Japan has found that lemon improves the ability to concentrate. It is said to lift the spirit during times of mental fatigue. Lemon has also been found useful for stimulating and clearing the mind. It is also said to aid in the decision making process.
According to Battaglia, lemon is able to stimule the action of the white blood corpuscles, which are the body's own defense. According to Dr. Jean Valnet, the vaporized essence of lemon can kill the meningococcus bacteria in 15 minutes, typhoid bacilli in one hour, Staphylococcus aureus in two hours, and Pneumococcus bacteria within three hours. Battaglia also says lemon improves the functioning of the digestive system. Battaglia also says it counteracts the acidity in the body and makes the stomach more alkaline.
Battaglia says lemon is said to have a tonic effect on the circulatory system and is useful in treating varicose veins. Battaglia says it may be helpful in cases of high blood pressure and can be used in preventative regimen against arteriosclerosis.
Battaglia also says lemon can be used in cases of toxemia, such as gout, rheumatism, general obesity, cellulite, abscesses, and carbuncles and boils.
As an astringent lemon has an effective cleansing effect on greasy skin. Its antiseptic properties make it useful for treating boils and cuts according to Battaglia.
Battaglia says lemon is said to have a tonic effect on the circulatory system and is useful in treating varicose veins. Battaglia says it may be helpful in cases of high blood pressure and can be used in preventative regimen against arteriosclerosis.
Battaglia also says lemon can be used in cases of toxemia, such as gout, rheumatism, general obesity, cellulite, abscesses, and carbuncles and boils.
As an astringent lemon has an effective cleansing effect on greasy skin. Its antiseptic properties make it useful for treating boils and cuts according to Battaglia.
According to Gary Young, lemon may be beneficial for blood pressure, anxiety, respiratory problems, digestive problems, sore throats and respiratory infections. Young says it helps promote leukocyte promotion, improve memory, cleans the nails and promote a sense of well-being.
According to a research done by Komori, et al., 1995, lemon has shown to have antidepressant effect. It is also said to work well in removing wood stain, oil, gum, and grease spots.
According to a research done by Komori, et al., 1995, lemon has shown to have antidepressant effect. It is also said to work well in removing wood stain, oil, gum, and grease spots.
Safety
Possible skin sensitivity. If pregnant or under a doctor's care, consult your physician. Dilution recommended for both topical and internal use. Dilute before using on sensitive areas such as the face, neck, genital area, etc. Keep out of reach of children. Avoid using on infants and very small children. Avoid using on skin exposed to direct sunlight or UV rays. Do not use near fire, flame, heat or sparks.
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.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sources:
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
12:45 PM |
Read more...
Add Essential Oils to Your Drinking Water
I like to add essential oils to my drinking water. I add lemon water to my drinking water first thing in the morning since it is said to counteract acidity and make the stomach more alkaline. Lemon is also a powerful antibacterial and it stimulates the action of the white blood corpuscles. It also tonic for supporting the nervous and sympathetic nervous system and it also has a tonic effect on the circulatory system.
When it is hot outside I add peppermint essential oils since it is said to cool the body down. Peppermint is also one of the most effective oils for the digestive system. It is best to dip a toothpick into the bottle of peppermint and then swirl around in the water.
Other oils I add to my drinking water are grapefruit, tangerine and orange. They are powerful antioxidants due to the d-limonene content.
Try to add some essential oils to drinking water but make sure that the oils you use are listed as dietary supplements. It is important that the company you buy the essential oils from list their oils as suitable for ingestion. Ask me if you want to know more the oils I use from Young Living.
Before you leave:
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.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
This post is linked to:
Waste Not Want Not Wednesday, WFMW, The Mommy Club, Raising Homemakers Link Up, Healthy 2day Wednesday, Party Wave Wednesday, Natural Living Link Up, Simple Lives Thursday, All Things Thursday, Fight Back Friday, Mop it Up Monday, Homemade Mondays, The Gathering Spot, Fat Tuesday, Titus 2 Tuesday, Domestically Divine, Teach Me Tuesday
Waste Not Want Not Wednesday, WFMW, The Mommy Club, Raising Homemakers Link Up, Healthy 2day Wednesday, Party Wave Wednesday, Natural Living Link Up, Simple Lives Thursday, All Things Thursday, Fight Back Friday, Mop it Up Monday, Homemade Mondays, The Gathering Spot, Fat Tuesday, Titus 2 Tuesday, Domestically Divine, Teach Me Tuesday
7:00 PM |
Read more...
Emergency Preparedness – High Blood Pressure
What if access to medication and medical care is denied?
In my first post, Emergency Preparedness, I was wondering how people on prescribed medications would handle an emergency situation if access to medication and medical care is denied. I won't bore you and repeat all I previously wrote so I encourage you to go back to my previous posts and read them. ( Some things on this post are a repeat but I felt some things needed to be repeated) My other posts cover anxiety & depression, pain , diabetes and allergy.
I urge you to take charge of your own health so you're better prepared for any situation where you might not be able to fill your prescription or use any medical facilities.
Natural solutions
Below are some natural solutions to the most prescribed drugs in America today.
Why essential oils?
- You can stockpile essential oils, and they have no expiration date if they are stored correctly. Herbs also lose their potency over time.
- They are small enough so they can be put in a pocket if needed.
- They are more potent so less amount is needed for healing. You have to drink 26 cups of peppermint tea in order to get the same healing effect as one drop of therapeutic peppermint essential oil.
Treat the body holistically
It is important to remember to take a holistic approach to healing and not only rely on natural remedies. Dietary changes, living a toxin free life, exercise, sufficient rest and sleep, and incorporating other healing therapies into your life should also be considered.
Okay, here we go:
#2 High Blood Pressure medications are some of the most prescribed drugs in our country
According to CDC, it is estimated that 68 millions of Americans high blood pressure. High blood pressure increases the risk for stroke and heart disease, the leading causes of death in America. Instead of treating high blood pressure with dietary and lifestyle changes most Americans choose to take medication for their high blood pressure.
High Blood Pressure according to Experts
- Avoid all alcohol, caffeine and tobacco.
- According to Battaglia, use garlic, onions and ginger in your cooking. He says garlic has been shown to decrease the systolic pressure by 20-30 mm Hg, and the diastolic by 10-20 mm Hg.
- According to Dr.Mercola, cut back on the fructose. "Fructose is a major promoter of hypertension - far more so than salt the connecting link between fructose consumption and hypertension lies in the uric acid produced. Uric acid is a byproduct of fructose metabolism, and increased uric acid levels drive up your blood pressure" Mercola
- Cutting out fructose and grains from your diet effectively eliminates one of the underlying causes of a number of health problems, including hypertension. (Mercola)
- Make sure that the carbohydrates come primarily from vegetables. (Mercola)
- Normalize your omega 3-6 ratio. Most are getting way too much of the omega 6 in their diet but not enough omega 3. (Mercola)
- Start an exercise regimen.
Time for the oils:
According to Battaglia, essential oils will alleviate hypertension by their:
- Hypotensive effect
- Sedating and calming effect
- Detoxifying effect
Battaglia also recommends to use a selection of sedative, uplifting and antidepressant oils such as frankincense, Roman chamomile, bergamot, and neroli.
Never quit any prescribed medication on your own since it may be dangerous. Some medications needs to be weaned of slowly. Consult with your doctor first.
Thanks for reading and come back for my 4th part in this series to find out the solutions to the other medications on the list!
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.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
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
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
Julie Behling (2011). Medical Preparedness for Adults E-book
The Essential Oils Desk Reference. (Fifth edition 2011). Life Science Publishing
Photo credit
This post is linked to:
Simple Lives Thursday
Photo credit
This post is linked to:
Simple Lives Thursday
9:33 PM |
Read more...
