Herbal Aromatherapy |

by Amy Nutt

Essential oils are used in perfumes, bath products, creams, body lotions, massage oils and in aromatherapy. The oils are used for promoting physical and mental health as well as to improve aroma. Most formulas require just a couple of drops.

Essential oils are extracted from flowers and plants. Making essential oils involves the use of special equipment. There are a number of methods used to extract the oil that include:

Steam Distillation: Fresh plants are placed in a still. Steam is sent into a lower chamber of the still and sent through the plant ingredients to vaporize the oils in the plant material. The blend of steam and oil then goes through a condenser. The essential oil is extracted from the floral water in the separator. Some plants contain aromatic compounds that remain in the water that is left over after distillation. This water, known as hydrosols, is used by Aromatherapists in products such as cosmetics as a skin moisturizer.

Expression: This extraction method involves pressing the plants skins, seeds, and flesh. It is most often used when extracting citrus peels.

Cold Pressing: This form of extraction is another method of removing oils from fruit. The process involves rolling the fruit between spiked protuberances which penetrate the peel. The squeezing will extract the juices that hold the essential oil. The juice is then put through a centrifuge in order to separate the oil from the juice.

Enfleurage: Flower blossoms are placed on sheets of warm vegetable fat that absorb the oil from the flowers. The fat is separated out with solvents, leaving just the essential oil. It is a lengthy and expensive method of essential oil extraction.

Solvents: This method of extraction is not popular with all-natural Aromatherapists because it involves the use of manmade chemicals. The plant is dissolved in a solvent such as chlorure of methylene, benzene, and hexane. A device is used to extract the essential oil from the evaporated material. The oils extracted are known as “absolutes.”

Carbon Dioxide Extraction: A high pressure is obtained by pumping the gas carbon dioxide into a chamber containing the plant matter. As the pressure increases, the gas becomes a liquid and works as a solvent. The new solvent is then passed into another chamber where the pressure is released. The carbon dioxide solvent vaporizes leaving behind the essential oil. This method is used only for expensive oils because the process is costly.

Learning what oil and fragrance best suits your needs will help achieve optimum health results. Essential oils provide a number of benefits such as alleviate pain, promote relaxation, relieve tension, act as a natural insect repellent, contains anti-fungal and anti-inflammatory properties, stimulates digestion, alleviate respiratory systems, detoxifies the air, improve mental function, and promotes healthy skin. The essential oil is a very tiny part of the flower or plant. Many plants are needed to create a small amount of oil. Depending on how the essential oil is produced, it can have an impact on the concentration and quality of the oil.

Essential oils are a popular natural health product that is quickly gaining worldwide recognition.

About the Author:
Offering 100% organic beauty products for adults and babies. Our complete line of products include: Organic and Mineral Makeup, Weleda, Jurlique, Dr. Bronners and Dr. Hauschka skin care products.

by Trish Williamson

For the newbie Eucalyptus oil is used in Natural Skin Care Products for its ability to reduce redness and irritation of the skin. It possesses many significant and beneficial properties.Eucalyptus Oil is also known throughout the world for its use as a decongestant in colds and influenza. Eucalyptus oil is reputed to aid in wound healing and is antiseptic and anti-parasitic.

Eucalyptus essential oil is extracted from Eucalyptus globulus of the Myrtaceae family and is also known as Tasmanian blue gum or blue gum. Eucalyptus oil is double distilled from Australian gum trees and has many beneficial uses. The much taller single-trunk eucalypts such as Sugar Gum, Blue Gum, Cup Gum, Swamp Gum and River Red Gum generally grow along rivers and creek banks.

The amazing health benefits of eucalyptus oil can be attributed to its anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, decongestant, deodorant, antiseptic, antibacterial, stimulating, and other medicinal properties. Eucalyptus oil is an effect analgesic and is often used in preparations designed to relieve muscle, nerve and joint pains. It helps relieve tension and stress, with a relaxing effect on the nervous system and is said to reduce the pain associated with rheumatism and gout.

Eucalyptus’ ozone-producing aroma brings welcome relief to symptoms of head colds. It blends extremely well with other oils making it the backbone of several important blends. Special Features of Eucalyptus oil relieve the symptoms of colds and flu. Eucalyptus oil can be massaged into the chest, back and throat to produce temporary relief for bronchial cough, congested headaches and sinusitis. For relief of symptoms of cold sores, dilute and apply topically using DIRECT APPLICATION. Our bottles come with a roller so this makes it easy! Medicinal eucalyptus oil is widely used for the relief of cold and influenza symptoms.

Eucalyptus oil also helps relieve muscular and arthritic pain. During muscle and joint pains, massaging eucalyptus oil on the skin surface helps in getting relief from the pain. Australian Eucalyptus oil, EU-CAL sooths and penetrates the skin to bring quick relief to arthritic and rheumatic sufferers.

Around the house it removes stubborn stains and grease marks Eucalyptus oil is a natural, cleaner and freshener. Excellent in laundry wash with the pure, fresh fragrance of the Australian bush. It is an excellent rub for muscular aches and pains and it has been widely used for many years by athletes to help keep muscles in shape.

Eucalyptus Oil is one of Australias first native exports and a rich and fascinating part of our national history. Out here those amazing Eucalyptus trees are everywhere! Eucalyptus oil is an excellent decongestant for flu and colds, and aids the respiratory system. Eucalyptus Oil is a traditional Aboriginal remedy used primarily as an antiseptic to relieve coughs, colds ,sore throats and other upper respiratory symptoms.

At any time of the year Eucalyptus oil is also great for the use in a sickbed environment. This amazing oil has so many wonderful properties. We use it in our famous Breathe Easy essential oil blend. Buy a bottle or three for when winter sets in so you can use this high quality blend to assist in a quick recovery. http://breatheeasyoil.com

About the Author:
Eucalyptus oil can be massaged into the chest, back and throat to produce temporary relief for bronchial cough, congested headaches and sinusitis. For relief of symptoms of cold sores, dilute and apply topically using DIRECT APPLICATION. Visit http://breatheeasyoil.com and find out about our amazing Breathe Easy Essential Oil Blend that includes Eucalyptus Oil !

by Trish Williamson

Peppermint oil is beneficial to the health in a variety of ways. Peppermint oil is referred to as the world’s oldest medicine because of its use in the treatment of illness throughout history. Peppermint oil is full of nutrients and its healing properties have been scientifically studied.

Peppermint has been shown to be effective for treating health problems such as dandruff. The antispasmodic action of peppermint oil makes it useful in soothing menstrual cramps, and it is often used to treat irritable bowel syndrome .

Unlike many other herbs and essential oils, numerous health benefits of peppermint and peppermint oil have been studied and proved by the scientific community. The peppermint essential oil creates an exhilarating chilly-tingly-cool body space. Peppermint is one of the most popular essential oils used for a variety of ailments.

Peppermint oil is beneficial to the health in a variety of ways. Peppermint is a very powerful product and it can be used to treat a wide range of health conditions and it is a tasty ingredient in many different foods and teas. The health benefits of peppermint oil include its ability to treat indigestion, respiratory problems, headache, nausea, fever, stomach and bowel spasms and pain.

There are many insect repellents on the market but the healthiest product is an organic kind. Peppermint has been shown to be effective for treating health problems such as dandruff. Please consult a medical practitioner for health problems. If you have any concerns about your own health, you should always consult with a healthcare professional.

For centuries Peppermint oil has been used medicinally in treatments of nausea and stomach pain, breathing and respiratory concerns and even in circulation disorders. The herb soon revealed its capacity as a stomachic, antispasmodic, antimicrobic, and, of course, as a pleasant flavouring agent. The health benefits of peppermint oil include its ability to treat indigestion, respiratory problems, headache, nausea, fever, stomach and bowel spasms and pain.

It should not be used in people with hyperacidity of the stomach, and in children. For people who are suffering cramps or stomach problems, then peppermint oil or tea is good to treat those problems. If you have any concerns about your own health, you should always consult with a healthcare professional.

Peppermint oil is full of nutrients and its healing properties have been scientifically studied. Peppermint oil is non-toxic and non-irritant in low dilutions, but sensitization may be a problem due to the menthol content. Peppermint oil is a diverse essential oil and should be in everyone’s medicine cabinet or first aid kit. In addition, peppermint oil is good for the skin, produces fresh breath, treats headaches and sinuses, and also fights gingivitis. Visit http://breatheeasyoil.com to find out more about Peppermint Oil and our Famous Breathe Easy Blend. Please consult a medical practitioner for health problems.

About the Author:
The health benefits of peppermint oil include its ability to treat indigestion, respiratory problems, headache, nausea, fever, stomach and bowel spasms and pain. Peppermint Oil is an intergral part of our Famous BREATHE EASY OIL BLEND Visithttp://breatheeasyoil.com

by Trish Williamson

Joint pain relief is truly something to hope for when you turn to alternative medical treatments for solutions. Joint pain relief is the single most important consideration for arthritis sufferers. Arthritis pain and joint pain relief is curable. Joint pain relief is not always an easy thing to achieve for those suffering from any form of arthritis. For chronic problems a major step in achieving muscle and joint pain relief is a balanced life style with proper supplements and a good healthy diet.

Joint pain is an upsetting symptom usually encountered in people who have suffered an injury or have been diagnosed with one of the many forms of the inflammatory disease, arthritis. Arthritis is a disorder characterized by inflammation of bones and joints. The most common cause of joint pain is perhaps osteoarthritis. Arthritis patients no longer have stick to mainstream medicines to cure the condition. Arthritis solutions are constantly being researched and studied.

Natural joint pain relief is a very popular method for alleviating pain, especially when dealing with arthritis pain. Natural options have become increasingly popular because many people feel that it is a safer and healthier way to treat their pain. Natural joint pain relief can take many different forms. Fortunately for arthritis sufferers, there are some natural supplements that not only help relieve pain, but they provide nutritional support to the joint as well.

Each year, millions of people from various corners of the world present to the doctor with joint pain and arthritis pain, and seek medical treatment. Treatment for the arthritis symptoms and anxiety should start immediately upon on diagnosis result. There are alternative treatments for arthritis that have found to be useful in improving the condition.

Also, it has been found that most of the people who seek join pain relief have suffered in the past a sports injury that affected their joints. Thus, one can certainly acknowledge that joint pain relief medication is sought by even the most active persons, wanting to stop the progression of such symptoms and to protect their joints.

When you realize you are suffering from joint pain, the first thing to do is to relieve joint pain. There are things that can be done that will quickly relieve the pain without high costs or invasive procedures.

Water exercises have proved to be effective in treating arthritis. Yoga stretching ensures enhance blood flow to your joints, which relieves pain. As with yoga, massage increases the blood flow and relieves pain. Most injuries require a period of rest, and joint pain can be relieved with warm baths, massage, and stretching exercises.

If youre wondering about how to get joint pain relief is to first understand joints themselves. Thus, joint pain relief is all about straining your joints or muscle while doing some actions. One of the most common forms of chronic joint pain relief is medication, such as analgesics (pain relievers) and non-steroidal anti-inflammation drugs. If you would like to consider a natural proven relief then visit http://arthritisoil.net

About the Author:
Annually millions of people worldwide present to the doctor with joint pain and seek medical treatment. Treatment for the arthritis symptoms and anxiety should start immediately upon on diagnosis result. There are alternative treatments for arthritis that have found to be useful in improving the condition. Visit http://arthritisoil.netto find out more information about arthritis oil for pain and joint relief.

by Amy Nutt

Most women’s life motto tends to be, ‘Be Prepared.’ For most women, a purse is an essential accessory for every outing. Women tend to carry many items with them in their purses. Because there are so many items women can carry, it can often be frustrating trying to find a particular item.

In order to make life much easier, the following is a list of the must-have items a woman should carry in her purse:

Cell Phone: A cell phone is an essential tool to keep in contact with others as well as for emergencies. One never knows when they will have a car break down or if they will need to get into contact with a family member or co-worker quickly. A cell phone provides that needed comfort by knowing that loved ones are only a phone call away.

Make-Up: Women like to be prepared for any event. For instance, after a power lunch with co-workers, a woman will often go to the bathroom to touch up her make up and apply lipstick. Whether it is natural look or added color, women always want to look their best. Lipstick is usually the most used item in a woman’s make up kit. Mascara can be easily smeared therefore it is a good idea to keep mascara in the purse.

Mirror: To apply makeup, a woman will need a small mirror that fits easily in her purse. Applying makeup without using a mirror can be a messy experience. A mirror can also be used to check for food in teeth and the condition of one’s hair.

Cash: Having a small amount of cash is important in the event that one has a problem with a credit card or debit card. Cash ensures a woman will not get stuck anywhere without any money. You never know when you may need a taxi or have to pay at a toll booth.

Driver’s License: The last thing a woman needs is to get stopped by the police and not have her driver’s license. It could be a very expensive experience. Also, a driver’s license may be required to show proof of age to get into such places as a night club.

Pen and Paper: Women are well organized and like to make lists. Having a pen and paper in a purse will allow a woman to make any important notes. Also, if you accidentally hit a parked car and the other driver is not around, you can leave a note.

Hand Cream: A woman’s hands can get rough and dry during the day, especially with working, running the kids to their scheduled activities, and being exposed to environmental elements. Hand cream keeps hands moist and the skin nourished, smooth, and soft. There are a variety of small hand cream products that will easily fit into a purse.

Tissue: You never know when you are going to sneeze or blow your nose. Having tissue in the purse will prevent any unpleasant messy experiences at work or on a date.

Compact Comb and Brush: No woman wants to walk around with messy hair. Wind can do a lot of damage. A brush and comb can provide a touch up for hair that is a bit messed up.

Tampons: No woman wants to be out for a walk or at work, and find themselves in a situation where they need a tampon. There are small compact tampon carriers available that will fit easily in a purse.

These are essential items that women should carry in their purses. Knowing what items are more important than others will help keep a purse well-organized and allow a woman to find things much more quickly and without difficulty.

About the Author:
Natural shampoo contains nutrient-rich botanicals that infuse hair with moisturizing oils and nourishing vitamins that leave hair soft and healthy, both inside and out. Organic hair treatment, and sprays are 100% natural and won’t cause irritation, hair loss or other harmful side effects

by Amy Nutt

Because our skin is constantly exposed to the harsh pollutants and chemicals in the environment, it is one of the first places we start to see physical damage. This can include premature aging, skin irritations, dry and chapped skin, and a variety of other skin conditions. As well, the chemicals and toxins found in manufactured skin products can cause even more harm to the skin. One way of combating the effects of skin irritants is to use organic makeup for sensitive skin.

Signs of sensitive skin include skin that is easily irritated, acne break outs and rashes, blotchy and red skin, and dry patches. Chemicals and synthetic ingredients can further increase these conditions. Synthetic ingredients found in many manufactured makeup products that should be avoided include: Formaldehydes, Paraffin, Imidazolidinyl urea, Diazolidiny urea, Parabens (methyl, propyl, butyl, ethyl,) petrolatum products, propylene glycol, Phthalates, PVP/VA Copolymer, synthetic colors, synthetic fragrances, and Triethanolamine. These chemicals can cause skin irritations and are particularly damaging to sensitive skin. Animal by-products are also found in these manufactured products.

Organic makeup for sensitive skin is all-natural and free of chemicals and preservatives. A few of the organic make up products available include blush, foundation, concealers, eyeliners, and lipstick. The organic elements found in the makeup products reduce the signs of aging, nourish the skin, rehydrate and replenish the skin, and moisturize leaving the skin soft and smooth with a healthy glow. The gentle natural substances found in organic make up for sensitive skin will not irritate the skin or cause physical damage. Women who suffer from allergens find organic make up beneficial because these products are hypoallergenic.

Organic makeup products are made without pesticides, chemicals, mineral oil, animal by-products, man-made preservatives, and other harsh substances. As well, a quality organic product will be 100% vegan and animal cruelty free. Natural ingredients to look for include all natural plant extract, natural clay, olive extract, natural herbs, beeswax, and flower essence. Look for the USDA seal for certified organic. This seal indicates that the makeup is 95% organic or more. A product that is less than 95% organic cannot use the USDA seal.

The skin is the body’s largest organ. Many skin problems, such as acne, dermatitis, irritations, and allergies may vanish once synthetic ingredients are longer in the makeup. Many oils and alcohols are a popular choice for mass produced skin products such as makeup because they can be easily absorbed into the skin. This results in absorption of the chemicals into the skin which causes skin damage. The healing and gentle properties of organic ingredients have made these ingredients a popular choice for millions of people around the world. Because of the vast amount of chemicals and synthetic additives in manufactured products and the increase of harsh element in our environment, the use of organics is increasing at a remarkable rate. Organic makeup for sensitive skin is one product more people are choosing to achieve a healthier lifestyle. The switch to organic makeup leaves women with smooth, soft, and clear skin resulting in improved skin health.

About the Author:
Treat sensitive skin with gentle and soothing plant ingredients found in organic makeup. Using a night cream can help hydrate, purify, exfoliate and promote a youthful complexion.

by Amy Nutt

Whether you’ve always had curly hair, have recently had a perm, or even if you’re trying to learn to work with curly hair for your child’s sake, you are facing a bit of a challenge, but one that is doable. From large, loose waves to kinky ringlets, locks with curl can require more work to look good than straighter styles. In order for this type of hair to look good, it must be kept healthy and free from damage and split ends. The curlier the hair, the more you’ll need a good detangling conditioner. Fortunately, there are techniques and products designed just for you.

Shampoo & Conditioner

In order to tame that wild mane, you’ll need to choose a good shampoo that is made for your type of hair. Consult your hairdresser for recommendations of shampoos that will enhance your curl without leaving residue behind. Select a conditioner that will add moisture to your tresses without weighing them down.

After shampooing and rinsing your hair, apply conditioner throughout and untangle gently with your fingers or a wide-toothed comb. Start at the tips of your hair and gradually work your way up to the roots, working all the tangles out. Rinse your hair with cool water to promote shine and reduce frizz.

Styling it Up

There are many different types of styling products that work well with curly hair. Make sure to ask your hairdresser for a recommendation next time you visit the salon. Some popular styling products for curly hair include:

Gel Mousse Setting lotion Styling cream Pomade Frizz Serum

You may want to experiment with various types of product to see what works best with your hair. After washing and conditioning your hair, comb through it with a pick or wide-toothed comb to remove any leftover tangles. Next, apply a small amount of your chosen styling product to your hair from roots to ends. If you want a curlier head of hair, you can scrunch it and tie it up in a messy ponytail until it air dries. For a looser curl with body, blow dry your hair using a diffuser attachment.

Deep Conditioning Treatments

Once or twice a month (depending on the condition of your hair) you should apply a deep conditioning treatment to your hair. After a regular washing and conditioning, squeeze all water out from your hair and towel dry. Apply a thick, deep conditioning cream or mask, and then put your hair in a disposable plastic shower cap. Next, use a heating unit such as a blow dryer cap, hot water bottle or heating pad to apply heat to your head for approximately twenty minutes. After 20 minutes, remove the cap and allow your hair to cool for 5 minutes. Rinse most of the deep conditioner out with warm water, then turn the water to the coldest temperature you can stand and rinse out the rest. Make sure not to wash your hair the next day in order to give your hair a break.

About the Author:
Organic hair treatment, creams, and sprays are 100% natural and won’t cause irritation, hair loss or other harmful side effects. Most importantly, natural soap will give you a perfectly styled look without leaving your hair feeling dehydrated or plasticized.

by Helen Jackson

While acceptance by the mainstream of conventional medicine may be a ways off, essential oils used in aromatherapy are proving themselves to be potential potent allies in the treatment of cancer. The alternative medicine called ‘aromatherapy’ might actually suffer from a misunderstanding of its name — aromatherapy, often confused with the use of a Glad Plug In Air Freshener, is actually an entire branch of medicine with specific treatment protocols for a wide variety of illnesses. This practice is slowly gaining credibility with patients (perhaps more slowly with doctors) partaking in the conventional medical system of the United States. Their healing power, like that of most natural therapies, can not only transform difficult disease states, but can have a long-term positive effect on one’s overall wellness. They are readily available, inexpensive, and just happen to smell nice — but there’s a whole lot more to them than that…

Research into the area of medicinal applications of essential oils has been significant in recent years. Many oils have been proven to have significant antiviral, antibacterial and antifungal action. Now, the body of evidence of essential oils being strongly anti-tumorial, with specific anti-cancer action is growing, too. A search of Pub Med, the National Institute of Health’s online research database produces 391 results for the search ‘essential oils cancer’ and 444 results for ‘essential oil tumor’. MANY of the studies show a direct correlation in tumor and cancer cell line eradication with the use of essential oils. A great many have conclusions that indicate the studies results warrant further investigation of essential oils for the development of accepted therapies. Here’s a review of some very promising results:

Frankincense has had a place in medicine for as long as medical practices have been documented. The resin from these stout trees of Africa and the Middle East is highly revered for its curative and preventative action (with many spiritual uses as well). In 2009, the journal of Complementary and Alternative Medicine published a studied that outright said Frankincense essential oil kills cancer cells while sparing normal, healthy cells. The oil distilled from the tree’s resin acted specifically on bladder cancer cells, with the study concluding that Frankincense might represent and alternative agent for treatment. Odd that the mainstream media has not made much of this finding — it took a subscription to these abstracts for many interested parties to be notified — otherwise it easily could have gone unnoticed! Frankincense essential oil is well known to be non-toxic, with many people able to put the oil directly on their skin, and even ingest the oil in small quantities without any negative response. Though it can induce cell death with incredible specificity, a feature that absolutely suggests further investigation should be performed — hopefully the medical establishment will agree.

Lemongrass, after Frankincense, may next most commonly researched essential oil for anti-cancer activity. In the May 2009 journal of Chemico-Biological Interactions, researchers tested Lemongrass essential oil against 12 human cancer cell lines. Colon cancer and neuron cancer cell lines were found most susceptible to the essential oil. The study concluded: “Our results indicate that the oil has a promising anticancer activity and causes loss in tumor cell viability by activating the apoptotic process as identified by electron microscopy.” This indicates that Lemongrass may induce natural cell death of cancer cells (apoptotic process), a process that is inherently dysfunctional in cancer cells.

Linalool is a very common essential oil constituent. Essential oils are naturally made up of many individual chemical constituents, and linalool is a sweet, relaxing aromatic found in many floral and sweeter spice essential oils. Linalool itself, separated from the essential oil of Coriander (Cilantro seeds) was the subject of research published in the June 2009 issue of the journal of Chemico-Biological interactions. Linalool was found to completely eradicate the HepG2 liver cancer cell line in VERY low concentrations. Linalool has a great many other effects, having been shown to lower anxiety and even significantly improve sleep. And now it even has anti-cancer effects! So even if one is notle directly targeting cancer, but using aromatherapy in a more ‘casual’ application, there may be important protective effects occurring at the same time.

While the studies above show essential oils potential efficacy at treating cancers of internal organs, a number of studies show oils can both eradicate skin cancers and act as protectants from cancer-causing agents. Sandalwood has a very long history in Ayurvedic medicine, the paste from the wood being used in a great many treatments. The oil distilled from the heartwood of the Sandal tree has been the subject of many studies demonstrating its protective action — the oil has a significant effect in the prevention of tumors when skin is exposed to tumor-inducing chemicals and even UV radiation. Tea Tree oil, a well known antiseptic, exhibited anticancer action by impairing the growth of human m14 melanoma cells — and even showed great effect on those melanoma cells which are resistant to other treatments. Many essential oils have significant antioxidant activity, and may be excellent additions to pre-sun skin lotions to lessen radiation absorption and oxidative radical formation.

Components of Thyme and Oregano essential oils have been shown to actually protect human DNA strands from breaking when exposed to extreme oxidative stress. DNA damage is a leading cause of cancer development, as this can lead to an abnormal cell life cycle, essentially turning off the process of natural cell death. Carvacrol and Thymol were singled out in a study by Slovakian researchers in 2007, though they also note that other components of these oils may have chemoprotective effects as well. Other spice essential oils that have demonstrated cancer preventative effects include Ginger, Tumeric, Basil, Garlic and Sage.

This is just a brief look at the science behind aroma-medicine. Essential oils hold great promise in the treatment of a wide variety of diseases, including cancer — which has always been viewed as one of the greatest medical challenges facing the human race. The research discussed here is freely available online, with the complete papers often available for relatively small fees from the publisher’s websites. While acceptance of so-called alternative therapies into the mainstream of Western medicine may be a ways off, it will be the commitment and voice of practitioners and patients that move this process along most quickly. These medicines are readily available, inexpensive and easy to use, and with the right encouragement, they will certainly be a part of the holistic medicine systems of the future. (Please note that essential oils can be contra-indicated during the course of conventional cancer treatments, as they have the potential to prevent chemotherapy from working as intended. One’s primary care physician should always be consulted regarding essential oil use if a serious medical condition is being treated).

About the Author:
The author is proponent of the varied and potent healing actions of aromatherapy essential oils. For more, see www.anandaapothecary.com/essential-oils.html.

by Helen Jackson

Helichrysum is one of our favorite essential oils, as it has such immediate, profound pain relieving and healing effects for most folks who use it. The particular species of Helichrysum italicum, also known as Everlasting or Immortelle, is the most broadly therapeutic of the 500 Helichrysum species — and the sub species (spp) of serotinum is considered particularly special. The reason has to do with the chemistry of the oil, and here we’ll have a look at the special natural chemistry of the Helichrysum italicum species.

Healing Muscles, Joints and Connective Tissue

Helichrysum’s most revered effects have to do with the healing of the musculoskeletal system — it happens to have several natural chemical constituents that synergize to produce quick, profound results. Pure essential oils are often made up of many, sometimes hundreds of individual molecules. The ‘chemistry profile’ of Helichrysum essential oil is very special, containing a spectrum of healing compounds produced by a single plant. Many essential oils have proven medical effects (search Pub Med for ‘essential oil’ to see thousands of results), including antibacterial, antiviral, and anticancer activity. Helichrysum’s primary applications are on the healing of the muscles, joints, skin and connective tissues — though there are more diverse uses, these are the easiest for most users to experience.

Inflammation Reduction

Helichrysum has the properties of being anti-inflammatory, anti-spasmodic and regenerative all in the same oil. The anti-inflammatory effects can be attributed to the curcumenes present in the oil. Curcumenes have recently been very prominent in the field of natural nutrition, as the extract of the spice Tumeric, called ‘curcumin’ has become popular as an anti-inflammatory supplement. The supplement is considered helpful not only for joint inflammation and pain, but as an all-around anti-aging supplement as well. Many Helichrysum italicum species contain a significant quantity of ‘gamma’ curcumene, providing an excellent anti-inflammatory effect.

Anti-Spasmodic & Muscular Tension Relief

The first place where the ’serotinum’ sub species shines is in the area of relieving tight muscles. Much back and neck pain, for example, is the result of the muscles being chronically cramped. Helicrysum contains a natural chemical called ‘neryl acetate’ which acts to relax these cramped muscles. Helichryum italicum essential oils contain in the range of 5% to 50% neryl acetate. This natural chemical is from a group of compounds called Esters, found in a great many relaxing essential oils — most notably that of Lavender, the most widely-studied and highly revered ‘relaxing’ essential oil.

The ’serotinum’ sub-species is nearly all grown on the island of Corsica (the island is well-known for its bounty of many high quality, therapeutic essential oils). The Corsican variety has the highest neryl acetate levels of all, in the range of 25-50%. Some aromatherapists believe this makes this Helichrysum type the most valuable for its more esoteric applications, that of relieving deep emotional wounds. And this may have a solid foundation, in that many therapies, such as yoga and massage, acknowledge that emotional trauma is often ‘held’ in the physical body. Releasing muscle and connective tissue tension (which can happen even on the smallest, cellular levels) is crucial to the healing process, as it allows the movement of damaged material OUT, and new healthy material IN.

Cellular Regeneration

Helichrysum contains molecules regarded for their ability to signal our cells to heal and regenerate. These compound are called ‘di-ketones’, of which Helichrysum specifically contains several Italidiones. You’ll find the essential oil an ingredient in nearly every wound healing and scar reducing formula in aromatherapy. (It should not be used on open wounds due to its anticoagulant effects, but is suitable once an injury is no longer likely to bleed). These same regenerative di-ketones make the oil an excellent choice for all sorts of skin-care recipes; the regenerative action can be complemented by a carrier oil like Rosehip seed, whose carotene content also supports skin healing — these two oils together form the foundation of many anti-aging skin care blends.

Anti-Coagulant, Anti-Hematoma and Bruise Prevention

A wonderful effect for all us accident prone folks is the bruise prevention offered by Helichrysum. Keeping a little of the oil on hand at all times is a smart way to keep ourselves injury-free. An application or two of the oil on any part of the body experiencing physical trauma can profoundly speed healing by preventing the formation of a hematoma, a bruised area where blood flow almost comes to a halt. For athletes twisting an ankle, for example, the oil can significantly reduce the swelling that occurs in the minutes after the injury, speeding healing by quickening the nutrient/waste exchange in the area. ANY blunt injury (walking into furniture in the middle of the night, or hitting your head on an open kitchen cabinet are but two common examples) will greatly benefit both in terms of healing time AND immediate pain reduction. (An important safety note: it is due to this anti-coagulant action that folks taking blood-thinning medication should check with their physician before use. It is likely that small topical applications of the oil should not pose a problem).

Personal Experiences and Anecdotal Reports

Personal and anecdotal experience with Helichrysum essential oil confirms its purported healing actions. A user with chronic neck pain from a sever auto accident found relief within minutes of massaging the essential oil at 100% into the stiff and painful vertebrae. Other users find their sports-related injuries to heal more quickly, and are less likely to become chronic overuse conditions. Application after simple burns in the kitchen leads to quick pain relief and fast healing. Another user reported While the scientific evaluation of Helichrysum’s effects are yet to be performed, this is no reason to avoid trying this essential oil for yourself — the conventional thinkers firmly believed the Earth was flat for a very long time!

About the Author:
More natural health information is available regarding Ananda’s essential oils and on the organic medicinal herb blog.