Blog12

Exotic Essential Oils: Part One

Exotic essential oils are unique, rare and sometimes expensive. With these essential oils, price can be indicative of quality. They may be grown, and produced in faraway eastern countries, such as India. Each one has a special application.

            The essential oil of Cardamom, Elettaria cardamom, has been steam distilled from dried seed since the sixteenth century. It has been used in ancient Ajurvedic and Chinese medicine. Oriental perfumes utilitize its spicy aroma and floral undertones. Cardamom combines with other exotic essential oils such as Sandalwood and Ylang Ylang. As a restorative essential oil, Cardamom is calming to the nervous system. Cardamom is native to India.  Dilute 2 drops of Cardamom in 2 ounces of carrier oil for a relaxing message.

            My first exposure to Cardamom was grinding the seeds with coffee beans to detoxify any components of the coffee as it was brewed. When studying with a Brahman priest about Ajurvedic Indian healing, I learned of Cardamom’s healing effect for respiratory and digestive ailments.

            In aromatherapy the sweet, woodsy scent of Cardamom makes an excellent massage treatment for digestive complaints. The essential oil alleviates spasms, nausea, flatulence, colic and slow digestion. Most important, Cardamom helps anorexics by increasing digestion and assimilation of nutrients. Cardamom also has aphrodisiac properties.  Two drops diluted in 2 ounces of carrier oil and applied to the abdomen and pelvis to treat impotence.

            Cinnamon, Cinnamon zeylanicum, is steam distilled from leaves and very strengthening. I use it to strengthen the circulatory system of clients and to balance high and low blood sugar. Cold feet and arthritis, which worsens in cold, damp weather is helped by this essential oil. It can be diluted in a carrier oil and applied to limbs and especially the lower back for relief of arthritis and coldness. This East Indian spice also aids impotence, by massaging a dilution on the lower back and abdomen.

Dilute 1 drop in 2 ounces of carrier oil for impotence.

            Coriander, Coriandrum sativum is a far eastern spice used since ancient Egyptian times for digestive disorders to relieve sprains, muscular pain and stiffness. The seeds crushed and steam distilled to produce a sweet and spicy aroma. Mohammed is said to believe Coriander can heal everything except aging. I use the essential oil in hair care products and special blends to increase hair growth. Ancients used the essential oil in a dilution or as a vapor to reduce body odor and increase libido, in that order.

Dilute 2 drops of Coriander in 2 ounces of carrier oil.

            Clove, Syzygium aromaticum or Eugenia caryophyllata, is a pain reliever. It is best known to relieve toothache and abscess. Two drops of essential oil are diluted in 2 ounces of carrier oil, and applied with a cotton ball on the tooth. I also use it for arthritic and muscular pain, diluted in a carrier oil. To relieve headaches, dilute 2 drops of each clove, rosemary, and lavender essential oils in a compress or 3 ounces carrier oil dilution. Apply it to the forehead or back of the neck. Look for essential oil distilled form the buds for best results.

            Immortelle, Helichrysum angustifolium, is a Mediterranean herb with a curry scent and flavor. The essential oil is steam distilled from fresh, golden flower buds and has a red color. It is anti-inflammatory for skin disorders and treats acne, eczema, chronic dermatitis, psoriasis and allergic skin problems. Immortelle, otherwise known as curry, is diluted in a carrier oil or non-paraben cream base, 2 drops in 2 ounces of oil or cream. Combined with aloe or St. John’s wort oil, immortelle treats sunburn and may prevent sunburn. Dilute 2 drops in 2 ounces of carrier oil. I prefer jojoba oil. Curry has naturalized in many sunny, drier climates, including my gardens in north central Texas. When using Immortelle, be sure to purchase a non-solvent variety. It should be steam distilled or an effleurage made with vegetable glycerin for medicinal purposes.

            Jasmine, Jasmine sambac, originated in east India. The white flower produces a most romantic fragrance at night. It is known in India as “queen of the night”. The heady fragrance can quickly change a mood from darkness to inspiration. It excites sensuality as an excellent aphrodisiac.  The person wearing jasmine essential oil appears more attractive and self-confidant. Spiritually, the aroma increases intuitive awareness and produces encephalin, a neurotransmitter in the brain creating feelings of light- hearted euphoria. The pleasure center compounds in the brain are analgesic, reducing pain, fear, and paranoia. Pure jasmine essential oil is dark, reddish mahogany color. The odor is so strong it is undesirable until diluted. Jasmine actually smells better diluted in light carrier oil, such as sweet almond oil or jojoba oil. One drop in 2 ounces of carrier oil yields a sweeter, less pungent smell with superior healing quantities. As a perfume, or cologne, jasmine is unequaled. Add two drops of Jasmine in 1 dram of distilled water

containing 5 drops of grain alcohol.

            The cost of pure jasmine essential oil is also unequaled. One thousand pounds of the small, white flowers yield a pound of essential oil. The blooms must be harvested at night or before sunrise. Approximately, 3 million will produce a pound of essential oil. The cost of one pound of essential oil is more than $5,000 dollars. Synthetic chemically created jasmine scent is about $5.00. Jasmine oil is produced by solvent extraction. The solvents are evaporated. However, even tiny amounts of residue are toxic. Therefore, it is best to know the source producer of this essential oil to guarantee purity. Only the liquid is recommended for aromatherapy. Any sweet perfume-smelling essential oil of jasmine is a fake. If the price seems too good to be true, save your money. Cheap imitations can irritate nasal mucosa and cause redness and irritation to the skin.

            Sambac Jasmine essential oil is an aphrodisiac, like so many other exotic essential oils. The Queen of the night excites sensuality and reduces tension or irritability incompatible for lovers. The chemical constitution of Jasmine allows the oil to be easily absorbed into the skin, stimulating the pleasure center of the brain. One drop of Jasmine diluted in 1 dram of jojoba oil can be applied to the neck near the carotid artery. This will travel directly to the brain to create the mood for love. If pregnancy soon follows, Jasmine can also be used for supporting childbirth. Jasmine is a uterine tonic. A dilution of 2 drops of Jasmine in 3 ounces of carrier oil can be managed to relieve back pain and muscle cramps. Jasmine can also reduce tension to support lactation. It has not been detected in breast milk. The essential oil of Jasmine is very effective in greater dilutions. In India, the blossoms are believed to emit moonlight from its blossoms. The fragrance is believed to be magical and ethereal. Use Jasmine wisely and allow it to open your heart.

To be continued…..

                Rosemary, Rosmarinus officinalis, is the herb of festivities.  Historically, rosemary was used by Egyptians for ritual cleansing, healing and spiritual treatment.  Other cultures used rosemary at births, weddings, processions and deaths to celebrate every cycle of life.  It remains an herb of friendship and love.  Rosemary was even used to attract friendly ghosts.

                The essential oil of rosemary strengthens the physical body, clears the head and unblocks unresolved emotions.  An essential oil blend moves, drives and clears energy.  Its action is warming, especially increasing circulation and reducing high blood sugar in diabetics.  Rosemary blends with a wide variety of essential oils affecting many conditions and diseases.  The high odor intensity does not make it useful in perfumery.  However, if the aroma is appealing, it can be combined with synergistic essential oils into a favorite blend. Rosemary does not blend well with lavender aromatically.  They tend to cancel each other’s scent.  Also, rosemary is not recommended in high doses for pregnant women or epileptics.  Children do not respond to the pine scent of rosemary.  It may encourage over activity.  A small amount infused into a room may aid concentration.  Use cautiously.  One drop may be sufficient.

                Previously, rosemary has been featured to improve hair growth, balancing combination skin and reducing acne.  Its refreshing scent enhances short term memory and increases endorphins.  Medicinally, rosemary is one of the best herbs to enhance circulation.  Many problems may resolve, including sciatic pain, gout, muscular and rheumatic pain.  Arteriosclerosis and cardiovascular problems respond well to rosemary massage oils.  Warm compresses may be applied to the right side to reduce hepatic and gallbladder problems.  Cirrhosis, or hardening of the liver has also responded over time to daily or weekly compresses.  Since it also stimulates the central nervous system, rosemary benefits those who have lost some of their smell, speech and eyesight.  I highly recommend a rosemary facial sprit, or shampoo to increase energy in the morning and reduce the use of caffeine.  I have used it to reduce vertigo in clients, lethargy and even partial paralysis.

                The following blends feature rosemary for a variety of ailments.

Heart and Circulation blend In 2 ounces of carrier oil, add the following essential oils:

                                15 drops of Rosemary

                                  5 drops of Lemongrass

                                  5 drops of Angelica root

                                  2 drops of Cinnamon leaf

Bottle in dark glass with a tightly fitting screw cap.  Allow to cure 3 hours before applying as massage oil on the chest, back and legs.  Use this blend for poor circulation, cold legs and feet, low blood pressure and as a heart tonic.

                Rosemary also increases blood to the brain.  As a stimulant for the nervous system, it can be used to improve memory, increase concentration and alertness.  It aids those who suffer from chronic fatigue, fibromyalgia, debility and related depression.  Weak and nervous people benefit the most from regular use.  Infuse rosemary essential oil into a room with a diffuser, or put a few drops in a bowl of hot water placed near the center of a room’s a blend for those who prefer to wear it.

Rosemary Restorative  In 1 ounce of carrier oil, add the following essential oils:

                                10 drops of Rosemary

                                  5 drops of Spearmint

                                  3 drops of Lemongrass

Bottle in dark glass with a tight fitting screw cap.  Allow to cure 3 hours or overnight.  Massage the neck, temples or forehead.  Avoid eye contact and use sparingly.

                Gastrointestinal problems can be aided with a rosemary bath or blend.  Symptoms include diarrhea, colitis and colic.  Rosemary’s antiseptic and antispasmodic properties enhance bile flow and reduce digestive complaints.  It especially helps a “nervous, anxious” stomach.  Rub the abdomen with the following blend to abate symptoms and increase immune power.

In 2 ounces of carrier oil, add the following essential oils:

                                15 drops of Rosemary (Spanish is stronger.  The whole plant is distilled)

                                  4 drops of Angelica Root

                                  6 drops of Marjoram, Marjorana hortensis (optional) for spasms

                                  5 drops of Pink Grapefruit

Bottle in dark glass with a tight fitting screw cap.  Allow to cure 3 hours or overnight.  Massage several drops onto the abdomen daily or as needed to abate symptoms.

                Rosemary is one of the main detoxifying oils enhancing lymphatic drainage throughout the body.  The abdomen is a major source of lymphatic tissue.  However, the lungs and upper respiratory system is another major source.  The following blend supports chronic lung and respiratory health.  Use it daily or as needed to abate symptoms.  In 1 ounce of carrier oil, add the following essential oils:

                                10 drops of Rosemary

                                  3 drops of Lemon Eucalyptus, Eucalyptus citradora

                                  1 drop of Thyme

                                  2 drops of Cedarwood, especially if coughs or bronchitis occur.

                                  1 drop of Pine

Bottle in dark glass with a tight fitting screw cap Allow to cure 3 hours.  Massage several drops on the upper back, and or the chest.  Avoid eye contact.

                Rosemary alleviates sore muscles, rheumatic pain, painful feet and accelerates healing from sports injuries.  This blend can also be used to reduce and regenerate paralyzed vocal chords and paralysis from surgery.  It is helpful for paralysis due to spinal chord injury when massaged onto the back, legs and arms.  Nature is a great healer.      In 2 ounces of carrier oil, add the following essential oils:

                                20 drops of Rosemary

                                10 drops of Peppermint

                                  4 drops of Juniper berries

                                  4 drops of Vetiver

                                  2 drops of Ginger root

                                  2 drops of Clove

                                  3 drops of Angelica root

Bottle in dark glass with a tight fitting screw cap.  Allow to cure 3 hours or overnight.  Massage affected areas daily or as needed.  Follow with a warm compress for extra comfort.

                Rosemary is well known as a remedy for headaches and migraines.  Multiple reasons for these problems make it difficult for 1 plant to be a cure all. Here’s a blend that helps many people who suffer from headaches.  Lavender can be added to reduce spasms.  The blend has a very medicinal scent.

Headache and Migraine Blend in 1 ounce of carrier oil add the following essential oils:

                                10 drops of Rosemary

                                  2 drops of Clove

                                10 drops of Roman Chamomile

                                  5 drops of Marjoram

                                  5 drops of Lavendula

                                  3 drops of Lemon balm, Melissa officinalis

                                  1 drop of Clary Sage absolute

Bottle in dark glass with a tight fitting screw cap.  Allow to cure 3 hours or overnight.  Massage gently onto the base of the neck, sides of the neck and temples or forehead.  A cool compress on the forehead or base of the neck may help.  Avoid triggers such as orange, chocolate, alcohol, cheese and inhalants used in commercial and home repair.

In Europe, Neroli is regularly recommended for headaches, confusion, insomnia, stress, shock, and hysteria. I decided to use neroli for grieving clients. Grief is a shock to the psyche that is at first numbing and works into confusion, insomnia, and acute feelings of loss. Neroli helped my clients in every situation of worry and grief. The easiest way to administer the scent is to sniff it from a perfume vile or make a simple blend. Neroli blends well with lavender rose geranium, ylang ylang, jasmine, clary sage, and other citrus oils. A vial of only Neroli can be carried and sniffed throughout the day and night.

Compassion Blend

In a 1 dram, 3.7 milliliter, dark bottle combine

        7 drops Neroli

        3 drops Ylang Ylang

        2 drops Rose otto (steam distilled)

Fill the bottle with 190 proof alcohol or distilled water. Cap tightly and cure for one hour.

To reduce premenstrual pain and cramping, Neroli can be taken as a bath 7 days before the onset of menses. Add 10 drops of the essential oil in 2 tablespoons of honey or cream to a warm bath. Soak 15 to 20 minutes.

        Neroli and other citrus essential oils are best stored in the refrigerator. Bottle the essential oils in small, glass containers, tightly capped. Citrus oils can quickly become flat when exposed to oxidation and temperature changes.

        In perfumery and aromatherapy, Neroli is a heart note. It holds a blend together, giving the aroma definition and coherence. Heart notes are middle notes, building on the foundation of base notes, such as vanilla, vetiver, frankincense, myrrhand, and sandalwood. Floral and rose oils are middle notes that carry the message of the blend. Heart notes are very passionate, even erotic aromas, hat keep your attention and connect with the complexity of your personality. The heart center will open and unfold like a thousand petal flower. The sensation is deep and lingering. While the base notes hold the perfume or blend the heart notes take you on a journey, releasing endorphins from the depths of your soul.

        Aromatherapy and perfumery builds blends using base, heart and top notes. These are determined by the volatility of the essential oil or, how fast it lifts into the air. The base notes are grounding and “fix” the blend so it releases over a longer period of time. Heart notes initiate intimacy within and with others. They are warming, loving, and transforming. Top notes reach out to great us on an aromatic journey. They are the first scent we smell, establishing an initial aroma before dissipating. Top notes are uncomplicated and sociable. Enticing the recipient to begin an aroma journey. As the initial scent dissipates, an unfolding movement of scent begins. True healing occurs as the psyche releases unproductive thoughts and actions to discover self-actualization. Our goal is to participate fully in life’s journey.

Historically, Neroli has been popular in colognes, deodorants and body splashes. The essential oil can be diluted in 190 proof alcohol and bottled or filtered water today.

In 4 ounces of water;

Add 1 teaspoon of 190 proof alcohol or witch hazel;

Add 7 drops of Neroli;

Bottle in a dark glass container tightly capped for 1 hour. Turn the bottle twice to mix the contents. Open and sample the mixture. Add up to 3 more drops of Neroli to obtain the desired scent. Cap again and store away from light and heat.

Neroli can be purchased from the essential oil of the Citrus bigaradia, bitter orange, or Citrus aurantium, sweet orange. Citrus aurantium is more available at a less expensive price. Both are heavenly scents with remarkable healing qualities.

        Neroli’s principle healing action affects the nervous system. It is a natural tranquilizer effecting anxiety, depression, nervous exhaustion, and tension. Neroli encourages us to experience life challenges with calmness and joy, offering hope to the hopeless. The soothing effect reduces insomnia and nervous headaches. Inhaling the essential oil or enjoying it in a message helps to regulate heart arrhythmias and relieve nervous tics.

        In skincare, Neroli assists every skin type. The oil is nontoxic, nonphototoxic, and nonsensitizing on the skin. It is beneficial for inflamed and sensitive skin. I use it for small, broken vessels diluted in jojoba oil or combined in a cream. Neroli assists in new cell regeneration and is safe for aging skin.

The orange tree, Citrus aurantium, is the only plant that yields 3 essential oil and 1 absolute. I will discuss each in detail. First, let’s investigate the history of this unusual tree, Seville orange, or bitter orange.

        Bitter orange trees were introduced to the Mediterranean in the tenth and eleventh century after Arab conquests. Europeans enjoyed the oranges for 500 years before other varieties of oranges were introduced.

        By the 17^th century, the Princess of Nerole, introduced the essential oil of orange blossoms to Italian society. It soon became fashionable to wear, bathe and fragrance gloves, clothes and stationary with the scent of orange blossom. The princess Anna Maria De La Tremoille was a member of the powerful Italian Orsini family who introduced the fragrance to the courts of Europe. The essential oil, Neroli, was named in her honor.

        Neroli is the product of the steam distillation of the delicate orange blossoms of the Citrus aurantium tree. The blossoms are picked on a warm, sunny day as they begin to open. Steam distillation takes place immediately on the site before the fresh scent fades from the flower. One thousand pounds of blossoms will yield only 4 cups of essential oil at a very expensive price. The scent is light and fragrant with a hint of orange and a sweet, lasting undertone. It blends with most essential oils, except the heavier scents, such as vanilla. The best blends for Neroli are other citrus oils and floral scents. Neroli aroma is so delicate; it can easily be overwhelmed by a predominant scent, such as ginger and other spices or base oils.

Ancient cultures believed Frankincense (Boswellia thurifera) and Myrrh 

 (Commiphora myrrha) resins to be holy. Their fragrance was believed to reach the heavens and commune with God. Pleasant fragrances were associated with the presence of God Afterlife and paradise was associated with exquisite odors. Burning incense and diffusing fragrant odors nourished the souls of the community. The use of fragrant herbs was limited to the priest and priestesses. With the scent released, people sent offerings and prayers, especially for healing.

 Recorded history gives a glimpse of wealthy societies amount of fragrant herbs burned in religious rituals. Babylon burned over 57 thousand pounds frankincense in 1 year. Assyria used almost 60 tons of frankincense for one religious feast. Arabia kept a special fleet of ships to transport frankincense from southern Arabian forests.

            And, in the Bible, the three kings brought baby Jesus Frankincense and Myrrh 

Gifts given only to the kings. Then were burned on hot rocks to release their fragrance and provide healing. The power to heal was sacred. Both fragrance and the repetition of holy words and sounds were part of every ritual. Early churches also used Frankincense and Myrrh to purify their temples as strong disinfectants. The smoke cleaned the air of any evils or negative energy.

            Today, we know the smoke from burning Frankincense produces trahydrocannabinole. This is a psychoactive substance that expands consciousness. The research was done at the Academy of Science in Leipzig, Germany in 1981.

            An Australian, Michael Stoddard, found frankincense produces substances chemically similar to sex hormones. Evidently, religious rituals re-channel that energy. Frankincense has also been used for centuries in India and China for religious purposes.

            The essential oil of frankincense is both sweet and spicy with a hint of camphor. The oil is thick, resinous with a yellow-green color. Its properties are anti-inflammatory and astringent. Frankincense essential oil has a history of treating lung conditions, such as bronchitis, coughs and helps laryngitis and sinusitis. More recently, frankincense has been used for asthma as an inhalant. The main action calms the nervous system, increasing breathing and reducing anxiety.

            Added to a massage oil, skin cream, or lotion, the essential oil is very antiseptic, healing wounds and topical ulcers. It can be used to reduce scar tissue and rejuvenate skin. I use it to reduce wrinkles and aging skin. Ancient Egyptians used the resins in many skin preparations for health and beauty.

            The essential oil of Frankincense is steam distilled from the oleo gum resin produced by trees in North Africa. The resin solidifies into amber colored, pea size lumps. The solidified product is steam distilled, producing essential oil.

            . Myrrh originates from a tree in East Africa. The tree bark is scored to collect resin that is steam distilled to produce essential oil.

            The main action is antiseptic. Ancient Egyptians used it to embalm their dead. It preserves the skin and is used today on aging skin and wrinkles. Myrrh can be effectively used on infected skin and slow healing wounds. The essential oil is safe and nonirritating.

            . Myrrh can be safely used, diluted in carrier oil, on mouth ulcers and bleeding gums. Dilute 2 drops of myrrh in 1 ounce of jojoba oil or aloe Vera gel. Apply to affected area with a cotton swab 2-3x daily until symptoms disappear. A stronger dilution may be applied to ringworm. Dilute 4 drops of myrrh essential oil in 1 ounce of carrier oil. Apply with a cotton swab 3 xs daily.

            Myrrh has also been successfully used for chronic upper respiratory symptoms. It is an excellent expectorant dislodging thick mucous from the bronchia’s and lungs. Use myrrh in steam distillation for coughs and colds. One or two drops in a mister will reduce symptoms and enhance healing. . Myrrh can be combined with frankincense for a speedy recovery.

            Digestive distress can be helped with myrrh in massage oil. Poor digestion, flatulence and spasms can be reduced by adding 3 drops of Myrrh to 1 ounce of warmed carrier oil. Massage in a clockwise motion on the abdomen before or after meals.

            The Chinese use. Myrrh essential oil to treat arthritis inflammation and pain. Dilute 6 drops of essential oil in 2 ounces of sesame oil. Gently massage the affected area 2-3x daily to reduce pain and swelling. Myrrh and frankincense essential oils are expensive. However, only a few drops are needed for treatment of a variety of problems. Be sure you purchase the essential oil and not fragrance oil. The fragrance oils are often toxic when applied topically and will not produce healing.

            Here are a few more recipes for relaxation and healing.

                        Upper Respiratory Massage Oil

In 2 ounces of carrier oil add the following essential oils:

3 drops Frankincense

6 drops orange

1 drop Myrrh

1 drop thyme

Allow to cure 1 hour before applying to upper back and chest.

                        To Enhance Concentration

In 1 ounce of carrier oil, add the following essential oils:

1 drop clove

2 drops rosemary

1 drop lemongrass

3 drops Frankincense

Cure 1 hour and massage 2 drops on temples.

Rosemary Protective Essential Oil for Radiation Exposure

Whether it comes from cell phones or isotopes from nuclear power plants, radiation exposure can affect mitochondria in brain cells.  Mitochondria are energy producing cells affecting every organ function in the body.  Their energy provides for neurological synapsis function which is how the brain communicates with the body.   Rosemary is an essential oil that has been shown to be very protective for brain cells affected by radiation.  

Aromahealthtexas offers Rosemary Shampoo and Recall Memory healing essence.  Both utilize rosemary's protective and energizing properties to maximize the brain’s potential.  Organically grown and steam distilled Rosemary Essential Oil separated by glass is also available.

For more information or to order, call Dr. Judy Griffin at 1-800-496-2125 or visit her website online at www.aromahealthtexas.com