This month I thought I'd like to take a look at the interesting world of aromatherapy. Herbs have for thousands of years been used for various healing compounds and recently seen an upsurgance in the last 30 years or so. Historically aromatherapy can be dated as far back as the Egyptians who used it prolifically in their rituals. A given example are tombs that were found having vases filled with essential oils that even when discovered by archeologists still held their fragrances. Time goes by and we often remember things that Grandma or Grandpa would use for simple home remedies ( no I aint talkin about those extra potent hot toddies lol), but simple things like eucalyptus leaves in steaming bowls to help with stuffy noses, or the use of lavender to help with sleeplessness. I can attest to that as recently during my tour in Iraq I had bouts of sleeplessness and some packets of valerian were sent to me which helped calm me and allowed for an easier time falling asleep.

 

The key to it all is of course one's sense of smell. Believe it or not, our olfactory sensory organs can detect some 10,000 scents? These scents have different effects on our minds and bodies. So when we are able to discern these various smells, our mind and body react to them, in many ways positively utilizing appropriate scents. Scents more often than not create emotional mood responses which have effects on the physical body. Later we will give some ideas on oils to help and benefit your day to day life and perhaps lessen the already overuse of chemicals and synthetic drugs in our daily life. But first, I thought it pertinent to discuss some important points when dealing with essential oils.

 

First, remember that essential oils are extremely potent, in some cases, up to a thousand times more potent than the original herb itself such is the power that its better you keep these oils out of reach of children. These oils are like any tool, it can be very helpful, but if misused, very harmful. So be mindful of where you store your oils that they do not get accidentally ingested by a curious child.

Secondly, when using essential oils remember to consult a qualified aroma therapist during pregnancy or when you plan on ingesting any oil.

 

Don't directly apply an oil to your skin, add a few drops of the oil to a fatty based oil to avoid harmful side effects.

Ok, so it takes a bit of foresight and mindfulness when dealing with essential oils. Now lets take a look at some of the beneficial oils we can use in aromatherapy to enhance our lives. Ill be listing a few of the major ones which are easily obtain and common in use. Now keep in mind, aromatherapy is by all means beneficial, but does not ever take the place of qualified medical help for chronic health problems, serious injuries or disease. The combination of qualified medical help and these homeopathic remedies can be helpful in living an emotionally, mentally, and physically healthy life.

Lavender: One of my all time favorites for living in a very stressful environment. I highly recommend this particular essential as its effects are very calming. Over all, it promotes a calming effect which can help with sleeplessness, moodiness, nervousness, stress and irritability. It can also help assist in treatments of asthma, motion sickness, bronchitis, bites and stings, minor burns and hypertension.

Peppermint: Oh do I enjoy a good cup of peppermint tea but here are some good things the essential oil can help out with.

It helps fights fatigue, exhaustion, and lack of focus. It also helps with dealing with colds, headaches and sinus congestion.

Lemon: Very common to get a hold of. Emotionally it can help deal with mental confusion and depression. Gives a bit of zing to your alertness. It can also help with infections fevers, head colds, sore throats. Be careful however as it can cause photosensitivity.

Orange: Another common oil to obtain. The scent can help alleviate feelings of loneliness, grief, and apprehension. It can also help treat fevers, colds, constipation and gingivitis. Again as with lemon it can cause photosensitive, use carefully and do a little research as well as consult a professional doctor or aroma therapist before using on a regular basis.

Jasmine: This can be used to help treat anxiety, low self esteem, fearfulness, paranoia, as well as assist in dealing with joint stiffness, muscle spasms, and impotence.

 

Most of these can be used as an inhalant, or set on an aroma lamp (very popular now) in a bath, facial steams or even massages. There are of course many more essential oils out there that can be used in aromatherapy techniques and with a little research you can add these natural and wonderful herbs to enhance your life.

 

Winterwolf

Vice President, Pagans United

Georgia PUC Chairperson

North Central PUC Regional Chair

 

To read more about Winterwolf, click here.