ESSENTIAL OIL HISTORY

For thousands of years essential oils have been used in the attainment of higher spirituality, emotional, and physical well-being.  In biblical times they were used not only to cleanse the flesh to fight disease, but also to remove the mind of evil dieties, or what we may refer today as negative emotions. Prior to going into battle, the Roman soldiers used esssential oils to overcome fear and to build courage and self-esteem.  The profound spiritual and psychological benefits of oils such as frankincense, sandalwood, and myrrh have long been recognized by religious and spiritual traditions the world over.  Many oils are ideal aids to meditation, contemplation and prayer, ceasing mental chatter and stilling the mind. 

Whenever we allow ourselves to be controlled by thoughts or emotions, we may experience discomfort, pain, or great suffering.  Even at these times, when everything seems so imperfect and chaotic; there is an oil that can break us free and allow us to experience the peace that we are seeking.

WHAT IS AROMATHERAPY?

Aromatherapy is the use of therapeutic-grade essential oils for physical and emotional and spiritual well-being. 

 WHAT IS AN ESSENTIAL OIL?

Essential oils, unlike fatty or vegetable oils, will remain intact for many, many years; they will not turn rancid.  They are very complex and have tiny, oxygenating molecules. Because of their infinitesimal-sized molecules, essential oils are transdermal.  Within minutes of application to the skin, they can reach every part of our body. 

Some essential oils, such as frankincense and cedarwood, are high in sesquiterpenes.  Sesquiterpenes are components of the oils that allows them to penetrate the blood brain barrier which may very well be one of their most powerful healing aspects.  As you breathe an essential oil, its tiny molecules go straight to the central part of the brain called the amygdala. 

WHAT IS THE AMYGDALA?

The amygdala learns and stores information about emotional events.  This part of the brain does not understand the spoken word or the written language and reacts and responds only to smells.  This is why essential oils are so crucial when we are trying to address an emotional or psychological concern.  How the stimulation of the amygdala initiates the groundwork for the rest of the brain to do its magic in resolving harbored emotions, traumas, and fears, is not precisely understood.  Nor is it exactly well known how the amygdala assigns different parts of the body to harbor the memory of traumatic events until we are ready to deal with that specific trauma. 

WHAT ABOUT APPLICATION?  First, make sure that you are using high quality, therapeutic grade essential oils, especially if you are going to apply or ingest them.  Essential oils which are high in sesquiterpenes, such as Frankincense, are very beneficial when you smell them. 

Direct Inhalation:  Place two or more drops into the palm of your left hand, and rub clockwise with the flat palm of your hand.  Cup your hands together over the nose and mouth and inhale deeply.  (Do not touch your eyes!) 

Apply directly on areas of concern.  Essential oils may be applied topically to promote soothing and wellness of body and spirit.  Because they are soluble with the lipid membranes of cells, they have an unmatched ability to penetrate and disperse within minutes throughout the body. Remember, more is not usually better.  One or two drops of a therapeutic oil is sometimes all you need depending on your concern. Most oils can be applied neat (without diluting).  But some oils, such as clove, cinnamon, lemongrass...may need to be diluted first or applied neat on the bottom of the feet.  (Avoid eye area.) 

Many oils can be ingested (read labels). All essential oils that are identified as Safe For Consumption can be taken as a dietary supplement to promote physical and emotional well-being. Some oils (e.g., valerian, lemon, grapefruit, orange, nutmet, tangerine, etc.) are more effective  when taken orally.  Essential oils should be diluted in oil-soluble liquids such as vegetable oil, olive oil, Agave, or goat/reice milk prior to ingestion.  More or less dilution may be required, depending upon how strong the oil is. 

You may also use essential oils in your bath.  Since oils do not mix with water, mix 5-10 drops of essential oil in 1/4 cup of Epsom salts or bath gel and then add this mixture under a running faucet.  This method will help the oils disperse in the bath evenly and prevent stronger oils from stinging sensitive areas.

Diffusion is another essential oil application.  Research has shown that diffusing certain oils may also:

*  Improve concentration, alertness, and mental clarity;

*  Help you relax, relieve tension, and clear the mind;

*  Help with weight management;

*  Reduce airborne bacteria, fungus, mold, & unpleasant odors.

Start by difussing oils for only 15-30 minutes per day.  As you become accustomed to the oils and recognize their effects, you can increase the time diffused up to 2 hours per day.