Essential OilsWhat are Essential Oils? An essential oil is a liquid that is generally distilled (most frequently by steam or water) from the leaves, stems, flowers, bark, roots, or other elements of a plant. Essential oils are known as nature’s living energy. The distinctive components in essential oils defend plants against insects, environmental conditions, and disease. They are also vital for a plant to grow, live, evolve, and adapt to its surroundings. History of Essential Oils: Essential oils are considered mankind’s first medicine and have been used around the world for centuries. Essential oils and other aromatics have been used in religious rituals, to treat various illnesses, and for other physical and spiritual needs. |
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Research dates the use of essential oils back to 4500 BC. Ancient Egyptians were the first to discover the potential of fragrance, and records demonstrate that oils and aromatics were used for treating illness and performing rituals and religious ceremonies in temples and pyramids. Oils were used in the embalming process, in medicine and in purification rituals. In 1922, when King Tut's tomb was opened, 50 alabaster jars made to contain nearly 350 liters of oil were discovered. There are also over 200 references to aromatics, incense and ointments in the Old and New Testaments; Frankincense, Myrrh, Cinnamon, Cassia, Rosemary, Hyssop and Spikenard are noted for being used for anointing rituals and healing of the sick. The reintroduction of essential oils into modern medicine first began during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Since that time essential oils have been used traditionally to kill harmful germs, as well as spiritually to balance mood, lift spirits, and dispel negative emotions.
How are they used?
The most effective way to use most essential oils is by external application or inhalation, though some can be very beneficial when taken internally. The methods used include body oils, compresses, baths (including hand and foot baths), inhalation (by steam or direct from the bottle), perfumes and room sprays. Essential oils are VERY potent - some will cause skin irritation or have other harmful effects if not used properly. Unless specifically noted, it is best to dilute all essential oils in a carrier of base oil like Almond, Jojoba or Apricot Kernel before applying to the skin. For inhalation, a diffuser is effective for releasing essential oils into your environment - a very pleasant way of creating a particular atmosphere. When used properly essential oils, can be of fantastic benefit!
What are the benefits of Essential Oils?
It is not uncommon to see aromatherapy employ essential oils in such a fashion as to produce relaxation and other desired effects. To this end, essential oils are often used in massage. Studies have shown that their calming effect help with a variety of medical conditions, such as migraines, anxiety and pain management.
Many essential oils have been found to elevate mood and produce a general sense of relaxation.
Another benefit to essential oils is that they can be used to boost the immune system. It may come as a surprise that essential oils can "spike" the immune system - several studies indicate that the use of essential oils increase good mood and also white cell blood count which in turn boosts the immune system.
How are they used?
The most effective way to use most essential oils is by external application or inhalation, though some can be very beneficial when taken internally. The methods used include body oils, compresses, baths (including hand and foot baths), inhalation (by steam or direct from the bottle), perfumes and room sprays. Essential oils are VERY potent - some will cause skin irritation or have other harmful effects if not used properly. Unless specifically noted, it is best to dilute all essential oils in a carrier of base oil like Almond, Jojoba or Apricot Kernel before applying to the skin. For inhalation, a diffuser is effective for releasing essential oils into your environment - a very pleasant way of creating a particular atmosphere. When used properly essential oils, can be of fantastic benefit!
What are the benefits of Essential Oils?
It is not uncommon to see aromatherapy employ essential oils in such a fashion as to produce relaxation and other desired effects. To this end, essential oils are often used in massage. Studies have shown that their calming effect help with a variety of medical conditions, such as migraines, anxiety and pain management.
Many essential oils have been found to elevate mood and produce a general sense of relaxation.
Another benefit to essential oils is that they can be used to boost the immune system. It may come as a surprise that essential oils can "spike" the immune system - several studies indicate that the use of essential oils increase good mood and also white cell blood count which in turn boosts the immune system.
