Aromatherapy is a branch of Alternative Medicines and that emphasizes the scents of essential oils have curative and health-giving effects. Our smell sensory starts to function when we sniff the aroma of the essential oils by conveying signals to the brain’s limbic system thus influencing the endocrine and nervous system.

The pharmacological properties [...]]]>

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Aromatherapy is a branch of Alternative Medicines and that emphasizes the scents of essential oils have curative and health-giving effects. Our smell sensory starts to function when we sniff the aroma of the essential oils by conveying signals to the brain’s limbic system thus influencing the endocrine and nervous system.

The pharmacological properties of the essential oils is another factor that plays a part in the healing effects of Aromatherapy. There are a lot of plants from which the essential oils are obtained and has varying effects, for example: antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal, anti-inflammatory, anxiolytic, antispasmotic, invigorating and antioxidant.

Natural Aromatherapy is already of importance even in the olden times when the old folks mixed ground dried plants with fatty oils. The innovation of the distillation process opened doors for additional purpose of Aromatherapy in pharmeceutics.

Dispersion through the air is basically for aerial sanitation and fragrance. While for respiratory disinfection, decongestion, expectoration as well as psychological effects, direct inhalation is applied. External skin application is for general massage, compresses and therapeutic skin care.

Essential oils is the basic component utilized in the practice of Aromatherapy. The sense that it carries a distinctive aroma or essence is what makes a plant oil ‘essential’. The essential oils of plants are extracted through distillation and utilized appropriately in Aromatherapy.

* In making perfumes, the sweet spicy scent of Basil is appropriated. While treating depression and sharpening sexual concentration is its purpose in Aromatherapy.

* An insect repellant, Bergamot, is also utilized in curing the urinary and digestive tract. It is also useful in stress linked skin conditions like cold sores and chicken pox especially when combined with Eucalyptus oil.

* An alternative sharp and spicy pungent scent is that from Black Pepper. Also used for stimulating circulation, to relieve muscular pains and aches and can also be applied on bruises.

* Citronelle oil which is extracted from the relative of lemongrass is yet another insect repellant.

* Particularly beneficial in ridding pain, Clove oil can also be administered as antiseptic, antispasmodic, carminative and antiemetic.

* Eucalyptus when combined with peppermint is an effectual relief for cold or flu.

* Geranium oil can be of use as astringent, antiseptic and diuretic.

* Jasmine is ministered to arouse sexual urge.

* Lavender oil is applied as an antiseptic, to pacify small cuts and burns, toappease and loosen up, for sleep disorders and to soothe headaches and migraines.

* An alternative cure for stress and depression is the Lemon oil. It ameliorates the mood and furthers relaxation.

* Rose, Ylang-ylang and Sandalwood are utilized to induce sexual drive.

* Used for topical applications is the Tea Tree oil for its antimicrobial, antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral and antiparasitic properties.

* Yarrow oil is for the reduction of joint swelling and medication of cold and influenza symptoms.

* Correcting sleep disorders is the famous calming oil Chamomile.

* Juniper is a exceptional medication for fatigue and also alleviates self-esteem.

* Rosemary is used as a rejuvenating and encouraging whiff.

* Sandalwood, in addition to being an aphrodisiac, is also utilized as an anti-depressant.

* Vetiver balances the nervous system and a excellent cure for sleep disorders.

Alex Stapledon is a writer for AlternativeMedicine.com.au, an Australian Medical directory which focuses on alternative medicine and natural therapies.

Article Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/alternative-medicine-articles/aromatherapy-essential-oils-1595938.html

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For the most part, all of the highly scented candles on the market today make use of what are known as perfume oils, which means that their sole purpose is to produce a odor in the room.

You can have are also have candles that make use of essential [...]]]>

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For the most part, all of the highly scented candles on the market today make use of what are known as perfume oils, which means that their sole purpose is to produce a odor in the room.

You can have are also have candles that make use of essential oils instead. Lots of people like to apply this type of candle for healing reasons and aromatherapy.

By looking at the many different types of scents for aromatherapy, you will easily be able to find the one that best is able to help the condition that you need, whether it has to do with relaxation properties or you need something to soothe your nerves. Highly aromatic candles are widely available, but if there is a specific fragrance that you want you can have your candles custom made.

Although beeswax candles are supposed to be the best candles, soy candles come in a close second. Highly fragrant candles that are made from soya most often hold their smell until they are completely burned out, but you will often find tha beeswax candles are unscented.

Unlike candles that are made from paraffin, soy and beeswax candles do not permeate that thick black soot that is commonly seen when burning candles. Soya candles are made of all natural ingredients and do not contain any petroleum by-products, such as oil.

Even when highly scented candles are not burning they will give off a pleasant scent. For this reason, many people have highly aromatic soy candles simply for the decorative effect they provide. Whether you choose pillar, taper or votive soya candles, you can choose from a wide variety of scents and combination of scents.

You can tell whether a candle is made from essential oils of from fragrance oils simply by looking at what the name of the aroma is. Any of the candles that you see with a name like hot fudge sundae or like cinnamon apple pie are likely to be fashioned from fragrance oils. Essential oils come from plants and bear the name of the plant, such as eucalyptus, marjoram, chamomile, or ginger, for example.

If you want highly fragrant aromatherapy candles, you need to choose candles with the plant names for the scents. Learning a little bit about the different types of healing properties of of the different highly perfumed candles will help you to pick out the right ones.

The color has little to do with aromatherapy, but it is likely that the coloring of the candle will be closely linked to the fragrance. When it comes to highly aromatic candles known for their relaxation properties, lavender is probably one of the best and you will normally find that it is presented in colors of purple or  lilac. You will also find that normally a candle scented in pine will be made in the color of green.

One of the nice things about highly aromatic candles are the fact that they can cover up the odor of pets and cooking. By making use of candles that are fashioned from the soya, you get the benefit of not having to breathe all the harsh chemicals from non-natural products. A really great things that you don’t have to use any type of are spray chemicals when use highly scented soy candles. You can use highly fragrant candles for more than just setting up the scene for romance.

Candles are simply remarkable for the holiday time of year, and specially at Christmas and the following new year. If you would like to see a huge selection of different lavender essential oils, then check out the http://deannascentedcandles.com.

Article Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/alternative-medicine-articles/the-joys-of-highly-fragrant-aromatherapy-candles-1474527.html

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Massage therapy is a form of alternative medicine that involves the physical manipulation of the muscles to relieve tension and stress. This specialized treatment is often used as part of physical therapy regimes and is also effective in relieving and preventing several other serious medical conditions.

Massage therapy has been used to treat [...]]]>

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Massage therapy is a form of alternative medicine that involves the physical manipulation of the muscles to relieve tension and stress. This specialized treatment is often used as part of physical therapy regimes and is also effective in relieving and preventing several other serious medical conditions.

Massage therapy has been used to treat arthritis, depression, diabetes, exhaustion, headaches, high blood pressure, infertility, lower back pain, poor circulation and tendonitis.

Massage therapy is a safe and effective treatment when practiced by a well-trained therapist. Massage therapists work in a number of settings including offices, hospitals, clinics, fitness centers, nursing homes and rehabilitation facilities.

Massage therapists may also make house calls. A massage session may last anywhere from 15 minutes to 2 hours depending on a number of factors like the type of massage and the reasons for seeking this type of therapy.

There are a number of different kinds of massages. Some of the most common are aromatherapy, deep tissue, Shiatsu, sports, Swedish, Thai, and trigger point or pressure point massage:

- An aromatherapy massage involves the use of plant-based oils with varying properties. Some essential oils help to reduce pain while others affect one’s mood. Eucalyptus, for example, may be applied to help relieve pain or treat arthritis since it has sedative and anti-inflammatory properties, and helps improve circulation.

- Deep tissue massages involve the application of relatively strong pressure in order to help relieve tense muscles. These massages are particularly useful for relieving tension in the muscles, ligaments and tendons. They can be used to treat chronic pain and improve mobility.

- Shiatsu massage is based on the Japanese tradition of regulating the flow of qi, or vital energy. Shiatsu typically involves both the diagnosis of a health condition and its treatment by applying pressure with the hands. Pressure is applied to particular parts of the body to correct the discordances identified by the therapist.

- Sports massages can be integrated into physical therapy treatment to help with recovery from sports related injuries. These massages can also be used to improve performance and relieve tension in a specific part of the body like the neck or back.

- Swedish massages are perhaps the best known. They involve the use of kneading and relatively long strokes that span the length of the muscles. Swedish massages often involve the use of oils or powders that help to eliminate friction.

- Thai massage incorporates deep tissue massage and stretching techniques.

- Trigger point massage focuses on sore muscles and can be used to relieve tension and pain.

Selecting the correct type of massage depends on a number of factors including the condition to be treated and your personal preferences. A good starting point is to consult with your doctor to make sure you are a good candidate for massage therapy. It’s well worth it to do some research in order to find a well-trained massage therapist you feel comfortable with. Many therapists are trained to perform a variety of massages so you can work with your therapist to find the massage that best suits your needs.

For more information on massages, visit http://body-massage.info.

Article Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/alternative-medicine-articles/the-health-benefits-of-massage-therapy-1372570.html

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There are many benefits to be had from aromatherapy and massage and one of the most fun is [...]]]> Both aromatherapy and massage is effective in achieving many things for both the body and mind and knowing how to combine the two properly will result in great benefits for you and also whoever it is that you are massaging.

There are many benefits to be had from aromatherapy and massage and one of the most fun is the effect it will have on your romance and love life.

However there are more benefits than this and you can use massage with natural essential oils to relieve high blood pressure and helps the digestive system, reduces stress, headaches, insomnia and poor quality of sleep, easing aches and pains and illnesses associated with conditions such as arthritis or chronic fatigue syndrome. It can also help in weight loss, to tone the body and improve skin tone.

Remembering that the pure essential oils can be flammable, candles can be a great way to set the massage mood and scented candles are a great idea to relax the person that is being massaged. Just keep the oils away and you should be fine. Make sure your candles are scented with real essential oils as well for added benefit.

Massages should be relaxing experiences so when you are using pure essential oils in a massage, remember to be gentle. Your movements should be firm but not painful and never massage over broken skin or over areas where a bone has been broken or fractured. You want the massage to be a nice experience and not an excruciating one.

Always remember to check whether or not the essential oils that you are using in massage are suitable to be used on the skin. Some are not as they can be toxic. All essential oils should be diluted in someway, as essential oils are very strong and can causes burns if applied to the skin directly. They are best used in a carrier oil or moisturizer.

Make sure you arm yourself with as much information as possible prior to beginning. If you are blending different essential oils together, try to follow a “recipe” or experiment first to make sure the smell is pleasing and not irritating.

Creating the atmosphere is important when giving an aromatherapy oils massage and as well as the candles that you may have set up for the occasion, you may want to consider getting rid of any distractions such as the television, radio, (unless it is soothing music) and the children! Distractions will interfere with the massage and it will not be an enjoyable experience both for the masseur and also the person who is on the receiving end.

I am a distiller of natural essential oils since many years. We have production of Rose Oil, Kewra Oil and other wholesale essential oils.

Article Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/alternative-medicine-articles/aromatherapy-and-massages-oils-1299408.html

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We are well into summer now and swimsuit season is in full swing. One of the major concerns for practically every woman during swimsuit season is the dreaded C word…cellulite…that lumpy, dimpled, orange-peel texture that seems to target skin on thighs, bottom and backs of arms and is the shame and embarrassment of anyone [...]]]> By Rebecca Noel

We are well into summer now and swimsuit season is in full swing. One of the major concerns for practically every woman during swimsuit season is the dreaded C word…cellulite…that lumpy, dimpled, orange-peel texture that seems to target skin on thighs, bottom and backs of arms and is the shame and embarrassment of anyone who has it.

Cellulite affects nearly every woman as she gets older. Major scientific discoveries have uncovered the factors that cause cellulite.

Although there are three layers of fat under the skin, only the top layer is involved with cellulite. Changes in the connective tissue structure in this top layer of fat, caused by pregnancy, hormonal, structural, vascular changes, genetics and aging, trigger the formation of cellulite allowing fat to protrude deeply into the dermis (the layer of skin beneath the outermost layer), which is what causes the characteristic lumpy appearance of cellulite.

Hormones secreted in response to stress, particularly cortisol, also encourage fat deposits in problem areas. Pregnenolone is the precursor hormone from which all other hormones are created. It is an important precursor for the body’s production of progesterone which blocks cortisol receptors.

Some of the essential oils that combat excess cortisol are Balsam Fir, Conyza, Fennel, Peppermint and Frankincense essential oils.

Magnetic resonance imaging studies have shown that women with cellulite have pillar-like columns separating the fat chambers, which are larger and deeper than those in men. These large vertical chambers can store an abundance of fat.

Collagen supporting tissues of men, on the other hand, is more like a criss-cross net that is organized into small diagonal chambers, which hold only small amounts of fat…that’s why men typically don’t have cellulite.

Cellulite is mostly related to the underlying structure or framework and relationship of adipose to connective tissue in women. Scientists are now saying that cellulite is a disease of the connective tissue and is the product of extensive connective tissue destruction and that the three main causes of cellulite are excess fat deposition, weakened connective tissue support structure and poor circulation.

Fat storage and breakdown are controlled by two sets of special receptors called alpha and beta receptors on the surface of each fat cell. The beta receptors promote fat loss and are regulated by the hormone epinephrine, whereas the alpha receptors prevent fat breakdown and promote fat storage.

In the case of cellulite the alpha receptors outnumber the beta receptors. Women also unfortunately tend to have more fat storage alpha receptors than fat breakdown beta receptors in the hips and thighs.

Increasing production in the body of the enzymes hormone sensitive lipase and the enzyme protein kinase A will help break down the fat cells and release them into the bloodstream and is a key component of helping to eliminate fat and cellulite.

As well as connective tissue degeneration, poor circulation and lymph drainage can also aggravate and worsen cellulite. Exercise can stimulate epinephrine release, which can to some degree help reduce the appearance of cellulite but it’s not enough to completely eliminate cellulite. Increasing circulation will help increase lymph flow and also help to reduce the appearance of cellulite.

Here are some essential oils to the rescue that are well known to help with circulation, stimulating the lymphatic system and encouraging the elimination of toxins and water retention, all of which help with reducing the appearance of cellulite.

Because some of these particular essential oils are quite strong, they can be irritating to sensitive skin so it is important, if you have sensitive skin, to dilute them in a carrier base oil such as almond, jojoba, coconut, olive, grape seed or avocado oils. All of these oils are great for the skin.

Just make sure you are using an organic and expeller pressed oil still in its raw natural state so that its chemical composition hasn’t been altered or destroyed and that its skin nurturing properties are still in tact.

Most all oils when heated past 103 degrees Fahrenheit, with the exception of grape seed and coconut oil, are destroyed, change chemical structure and can even become toxic. A good rule of thumb is if you shouldn’t eat it then you shouldn’t put it on your skin because the skin will absorb it into the body.

So here are the essential oils that will help reduce the appearance of cellulite:

Juniper (Juniperus osteosperma and scopulorum)- Has been used for centuries as a diuretic and is excellent for relieving fluid retention. Renowned for its detoxifying and purifying ability, Juniper essential oil clears waste, promotes excretion of toxins and increases vascular circulation.

Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis)- Rosemary increases warmth and stimulates blood circulation and is especially useful for circulatory problems of extremities. I stand on my feet for long periods of time and when my legs and calves swell up, rubbing Rosemary essential oil on them relieves the swelling and edema in about 2 minutes. It’s really incredible for combating fluid retention and lymphatic congestion making it very effective for cellulite and obesity (and great for keeping the legs from swelling up during air travel as well).

Cypress Essential Oil (Cupressus sempervirens)- This essential oil is most used for the circulatory system as it improves circulation and strengthens blood capillaries. It also helps in fluid reducing. It is excellent for varicose veins due to its vasoconstricting effect.

Geranium (Pelargonium graveolens)- Excellent for all skin types due to its ability to balance sebum. It improves blood flow, is a liver and pancreas stimulant and dilates the bile ducts for liver detoxification. Geranium essential oil also helps to balance the hormones.

Lemon (Citrus limon)- Lemon essential oil is stimulating for the circulatory system and improves microcirculation, strengthens vascular tissues, it is used for treating varicose veins by improving circulation and relieving pressure on the veins (together with Cypress essential oil in a 1 to1 ratio).

Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia)- Lavender oil may also be used in the treatment of stretch marks.

Grapefruit (Citrus paradisi)- Relieves congested and oily skin, having a toning effect on both skin and tissues. For this reason it is a good oil to use when treating cellulite.

Orange (Citrus sinensis) – There is some resemblance between cellulite skin and that of an orange peel and that might be one of the first clues that Orange essential oil is an exceptional oil for reducing the appearance of cellulite. Orange essential oil is a diuretic and is great for relieving fluid retention, it also softens the epidermis, stimulates blood circulation and lymph fluids and is very helpful in treating swollen tissue.

I have mixed equal parts of Orange, Lemon, Cypress and Juniper essential oils and massaged these oils straight into my skin with no carrier oil but adding a few drops of base carrier oil might be a good idea if you have sensitive skin. I noticed a huge difference in the appearance of cellulite within about half an hour.

PLEASE NOTE: The information in this article is based solely on the use of 100% Pure Therapeutic Grade Essential Oils due to their high quality and tested purity. The use of a brand of uncertain quality and/or purity will provide you with potentially dangerous, if not lethal, results. The author assumes no responsibility for your improper use of this information.

The statements about these oils and supplements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These oils are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

About the Author:

R. Noel is the author of The Essential Oils and Aromatherapy Info Blog where you can find out everything you want to know about essential oils and their uses with topics ranging from treating insect bites to making an awesome pesto to which oils to use for colds and the flu to making your own scented aromatherapy cards to aromatherapy accessories and much more.

Visit: Essential Oils and Aromatherapy Info Blog

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/health-articles/say-goodbye-cellulite-with-essential-oils-510744.html

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Chamomile

The flowers of [...]]]> It seems that there is an appropriate aromatherapy scent for your every need. No matter if what you need is to alter your mood, achieve a sense of well-being or relieve minor health conditions, there is a corresponding scent to do the job well. The following are 5 of the most popular scents.

Chamomile

The flowers of the chamomile plant look like tiny daisies but smell like apples instead. Grown for many years now because of its various healing properties, chamomile is best known for its calming effects, thus helping one to achieve a very restful sleep. It is also effective for relieving the symptoms of PMS, menopause and hyperactivity among kids.

The oil from chamomile flowers can help ease muscle aches and tensions, headaches and joint pains. Drinking tea made from the petals helps stimulate appetite and calm upset stomach. Unlike other essential oils, chamomile is mild enough to help ease your baby’s colic, thus helping him or her achieve sleep.

Eucalyptus

With about 300 varieties, eucalyptus has long been a vital ingredient in cough medications because its scent, which helps open up and clear nasal passages. Eucalyptus oil is also used to scent mouthwashes, aftershaves, colognes and other household cleansers.

The effects of eucalyptus on the mind and body include: relief from mental fatigue, improves mental alertness, lessen muscle tension and help boost the immune system. It is also a widely-used disinfectant and insect repellant.

However, if used in large amounts, eucalyptus essential oil can be toxic. Also, while it is great for relieving the symptoms of sinusitis and lung congestion, it is not intended for use during an asthma attack.

Lavender

Lavender has long been associated with cleanliness ever since the Romans first used it as an additive to their bathwater. Today, it is still a favorite for scenting perfumes, soaps, air fresheners, fabric softeners, disinfectants and many others. Lavender is one of the safest and most widely-used essential oils, known to have an uplifting and relaxing effect.

If used in large amounts, lavender can be stimulating. It also helps improve digestion, reduce swelling, ease muscle tension and is proven effective for treating minor skin injuries such as burns, cuts, scrapes, and rashes.

Peppermint

Peppermint is popular because of its powerful, mint and distinctive fragrance. It is a common ingredient in all sort of products like ice cream, liqueurs, mouthwashes, toothpastes, desserts, cosmetics, household cleansers and many more.

Peppermint essential oil is used in liniments to increase blood flow to a body part, thus relieving muscle spasms and arthritis. It is also known to uplift the mood, relieve mental fatigue, improve alertness and enhance memory.

Known to be able to kill many bacteria and viruses, peppermint is used for treating ringworm, scabies, herpes simplex and poison oak.

Rosemary

With its herbaceous, woody and camphorous odor, it is not surprising that rosemary has a wide variety of uses, from the ancient times until today. It became a staple during weddings and funerals in the ancient times. It was used as an ingredient in cosmetics as early as the 14th century. Today it is a popular ingredient in liniments, massage oils and bath products.

Rosemary is excellent in improving blood circulation, relieving sore throat and lung congestion, and helpful in improving digestion.

It also helps relieve mental fatigue, uplift the mood and enhance mental alertness and memory when used as an aromatherapy scent.

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