Aromatherapy

Aromatherapy can be defined as the art and science of utilizing aromatic essence from plants to balance, harmonize and promote the health of the body, mind and spirit.

The use of aromatic oils has been known all through the ages. We believe primitive man used herbs and plants to heal, based on cave paintings found. We know that the Egyptians as far back as 4500BC used perfumed oils and aromatic vinegars for medicine, food preservation, cosmetics, religious ceremonies and embalming the dead. This has been proven by traces of oils found on mummies' bandages and temple walls. Aromatic oils have been prized throughout Asia and Europe for their medicinal properties for centuries, even as protection from the Plague in the Middle Ages. India's Ayurvedic system of medicine is based on a balance between the person and the environment and often includes the use of scented oils and spices.

There is widespread use of aromatherapy today in the health and beauty industry. The link between aromatherapy and massage points to relieving stress, improving mood and promoting good health. The combination of the two is a powerful tool for healing and maintaining wellness. Essential oils may be delivered to the body topically as a liquid or through inhalation as a vapor. The scents of the essential oils enter the body through the limbic system, a complex system of nerve pathways in the brain, affecting the endocrine and motor systems of the body.

There are hundreds of essential oils on the market today. It is important to purchase from a reputable source who knows the origins of the oils so that you get a pure product.

Healing With Peppermint and Eucalyptus

Peppermint and Eucalyptus oils have many healing properties, but are especially useful during the cold and flu season. Eucalyptus fights infection, reduces fever and soothes inflammation of the respiratory tract. Peppermint is an excellent complement to eucalyptus because it acts as a decongestant and fights fevers and infection. It stimulates the circulatory system, relieving aches and pains associated with colds and flu symptoms. It has the added benefit of relieving indigestion and nausea. Peppermint oil is strong and should be not be used when pregnant or for small children.

Steam Inhalation

Add 2-3 drops each of eucalyptus and peppermint oils to a bowl of very hot water. Cover your head with a towel and breathe the vapors in deeply to loosen congestion and open nasal pathway.

Soothing balm

Melt a tablespoon of Vaseline in a small dish over hot water. Add 6 drops of Eucalyptus and 2 drops of peppermint. Rub a small amount under your nose to clear sinuses at night. Rub a little on your lips to heal cold sores.

Eucalyptus Air Cleanser

Heat several drops of eucalyptus in a diffuser or vaporizer to release its antiseptic ingredients into the air to disinfect the room and reduce airborne microbes.

Tired Feet Reliever

Add 3-4 drops of peppermint oil to a foot bath and soak ten minutes to relieve and revive sore, achy feet. This is especially nice after a long day of skiing in stiff boots.

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