Herbal Aromatherapy |

by Laura Dees

Scientific proof regarding the effectiveness of natural essential oils against a wide variety of viruses continues to grow. In the 1970’s, German researchers tested extracts of more than 90 species of the Lamiaceae plant family to have anti-viral actions. This discovery prompted great interest in the examination of essential oils in Europe for the treatment of viral infections. In more recent research, the essential oils distilled from these plants have demonstrated potent anti-viral properties. These concentrated forms of the plant medicine are easy-to-use, readily available, and can be highly effective in both supporting the immune system AND eradicating viruses with which they come in contact. In fact, many of the world’s leading aroma-medicine therapists believe the treatment and prevention of infectious illness to be the most important and efficacious use of essential oils. Here’s a look at which oils may be most effective for the professional and home practitioner to utilize for this purpose.

Research Is In: The Anti-Viral and Immune-Supportive Activity of Essential Oils

Essential oils can be utilized for two important effects: both direct anti-viral action and immuno-supportive properties. Research in these areas has been sigificant in the past decade, with the body of data available through Pub Med (the research database maintained by the National Institute of Health) containing on the order of 200 papers published in peer-reviewed journals on these subjects alone. A look into the research shows that certain essential oils can directly eradicate viruses, and at the same time boost the ability of the immune system to defend itself. As immune boosters, the oils have been reported to increase the ability of white blood cells to consume foreign invaders, as well as increase the rate and volume of production of antibodies and defensive cells when one has been in contact with a viral pathogen.

The direct eradication of viruses is also a feature many essential oils display, in addition to their immune-stimulating effects. This makes complete sense to practitioners of plant medicine, as plants themselves also must defend from viral infections. While the transmission methods these viruses use are different, their primary structure is not all that different from viruses infecting mammals. Essential oils have been shown to destroy the SARS virus, and prevent the cell-to-cell transmission of the Herpes Simplex variants. These same oils should also be effective at eradicating other ‘pandemic’ viruses we’re facing today. And not only do these oils eradicate viruses, but also demonstrate protective effects such that cells acquire resistance to viral penetration. For these effects, essential oils can be used topically (diluted in ‘base’ or ‘carrier’ oils) or even better, they can be dispersed in the air in your home or office by a nebulizing diffuser (we’ll explain this more toward the end of this article).

Selecting Essential Oils for Highest Immune System Function and Defense

When evaluating oils for your own formulas, it is important to take both actions into consideration — that of enhancing immune system action AND eradication of any viral agents in which one may come in contact with. Some oils are known to do both: Research presented in the April 2006 issue of Phytotherapy Research indicated Frankincense can be a potent anti-viral. It is also considered by some highly-trained aromatherapists to be the most potent immunostimulant essential oil. Melissa essential oil may have similar activity (these two oils are among the most revered oils for their multiple positive health effects). Other oils are know anti-anxiety agents, which again has a downstream result on a stronger immune system: these include Lavender, Bergamot and Sandalwood oils. Still other oils are thought to help with detoxification, further lessening the burden on the immune system: Rosemary, Fennel and Carrot Seed are important oils in this respect. Using several oils in combination, creating a well rounded blend to address multiple factors of immune response will likely produce the most effective formula. Think about where you might need the most support — if you’re immunity is strong, perhaps only the virus-eradicating oils are necessary. If you’re under a lot of stress, it’s important to include oils that address this issue, while both boosting immunity and eradicating viral invaders.

Melissa Essential Oil: Potent Immune System Medicine

Melissa, a member of the Lamiaceae family also known as Lemon Balm, has been shown particularly efficacious against the herpes simplex virus. The oil has also been shown to have significant antidepressant effects, and can positively modulate the action of the immune system. While somewhat costly, as the plant itself yields a very small amount of essential oil, its potency is considered exceptionally high. Even small amounts within your formula can provide important protection. Melissa is noted specifically by Dr. Kurt Schnaubelt in ‘Advanced Aromatherapy’ to work in very low dilutions; Dr. Schnaubelt believes the oil’s effects will still be strong when used at one part per hundred in topical recipes.

Rosalina and Tea Tree: High Power Australian Oils

Tea Tree, because we’ve all been using for so long, slips our mind when considering oils for more ’serious’ applications. The naturally occurring terpines in Tea Tree are among the most potent anti-viral constituents found in essential oils. Yet not all of us are very fond of Tea Tree’s aroma; what’s important to know that Tea Tree actually has a wonderful ‘nutmeggy’ aroma when it’s fresh ? and Tea Tree happens to be one of the essential oils that is better tolerated when it’s fresh (if the smell is unpleasant, it’s likely old or not of good quality). The research backing the antiviral action is probably more comprehensive than any other essential oil. While aromatherapists do not consider Tea Tree the first line of defense for influenza, it could certainly be a helpful component in blends with other appropriate oils for this purpose. Also in the Melaluca family is Rosalina, or ‘Lavender Tea Tree’. This relatively new oil seems to have an exceptional balance of properties, acting as both an anti-stress agent and a potent antimicrobial. Some therapists consider this oil may be the better choice for anti-viral protection.

Essential Oils Specific for Influenza

Case studies by professional aromatherapists have been presented where oils have been matched to the symptoms of the viral infection. Oils from plants of the Myrtaceae family (Eucalyptus Radiata, Tea Tree and Ravensara) have helped in cases of respiratory tract infections. For the lower respiratory tract, Hyssop decumbens has been successfully used. Bay Laurel essential oil has been specifically noted for its ability to destroy the virus causing SARS. All these oils are excellent in combination: Eucalyptus Radiata, Ravensara aromatica, Tea Tree, Hyssop and Bay Laurel would make an absolutely wonderful, highly-potent blend for diffusion. Additional oils from the herbs of Oregano and Thyme could be added if the formula were to be used topically (Note: these oils are so strong as to possibly cause irritation of the mucus membranes if inhaled in significant quantities. They are best used along with carrier oils on the reflex points of the feet associated with the respiratory system: the bottom of the foot from the ball to the pinky toe, and directly above this on the top of the foot).

Creating Your Formula (or finding one and using it!)

Putting together your own highly effective formulas (or using a high quality purchased one) is very easy to do. Several, or even all, the oils mentioned here can be combined in equal portions to create a diffuser blend: for example, blend one milliliter (27 drops) each Bay Laurel, Eucalyptus Radiata, Rosalina, Hyssop and Melissa. Use this in a nebulizing diffuser which makes a potent evaporative mist to disperse this in the air in your environment. Only small amounts need to be used at any time ? often a diffuser of these types will only be run about 5 minutes out of each hour. Never should the aroma be too strong or overwhelming. The same formula can be made into a topical formula to massage into the feet or into the lymph nodes. Virgin coconut oil is an excellent base, which is thought to have anti-viral action itself. This massage formula should be applied once daily.

These same essential oils can be made into a spray by diluting them in spring water at a 1 to 10 ration. Simply add the oils to a small spray bottle with the water and shake vigorously. This is an excellent way to treat yourself and your family when traveling! Do, of course keep this blend away from the eyes and out of the reach of children. The formulas should be further diluted if they are to be used with young ones (dilute half again in water or carrier oil); there are a number of fine texts available describing essential oil use with kids — be sure to understand all precautions by consulting these manuals or discussing the use of essential oils with a knowledgeable practitioner.

Conclusion: The Case for Natural Solutions for Anti-Viral Health Support

Essential oils are simply the concentrated volatile natural chemicals of plants. Plant medicine has a long, effective history, and the use of essential oils is no exception. Studies around the world support their use in treating infectious illness, and specifically in preventing and treating viral diseases. If you can, follow your intuition with their use, frequency and dosage. Be careful not to overdo it, as the potency of these medicines implies that only small amounts are needed to produce the desired effects. The formulas described here are not meant to supplant other means of preventing and curing illnesses, but to complement them. Remember that many aromatherapists consider this the most effective use essential oils may have for us, why not give it a try!

About the Author:
The author is a co-founder of Ananda Aromatherapy Essential Oils. More information on the therapeutic use of essential oils can be found at The Ananda Apothecary.

by Amy Nutt

While most individuals are more than happy to utilize organic products, it is sometimes a mystery as to exactly what benefits these organic products offer. With so many different types of organic products on the market, it is sometimes a guessing game as to which products actually have a significant amount of benefit for the user and which are simply advertised as helpful but are not significantly better than the alternative.

With so many different types of products available, it can be hard to decide which ones are actually useful and which are simply benefiting from a strong level of advertising.

By utilizing a purely organic body wash, you can eliminate a lot of the harsh chemicals that cause all manner of problems with irritable skin and flaky scalps. With so many people suffering from these types of conditions, it is not surprising that there is such a push toward using organic products of this nature.

By utilizing organic products, you can ensure that you are not allowing chemicals to come into contact with your skin and body as well as keeping those selfsame chemicals from the septic system or city sewage system in your area. These are all valid concerns, as there are all manner of ramifications for allowing chemicals to interact with the soil in any particular environment. These chemicals eventually wash down into the local aquifer and cause significant difficulties for species of animals in the area.

In addition to minimizing the exposure to chemicals, these types of organic body washes are generally far more effective as well. Made generally from all manner of variety of fruits, berries and naturally occurring products, organic body washes can leave you feeling rejuvenated and healthy, making it worth the effort to seek them out and use them exclusively. With all of the focus on organic body washes, it is abundantly clear that there is a tremendous level of interest in moving away from chemical-based cleansers and utilizing organic products as often as possible. With all the people around the world that are focused on steering clear of harmful chemical additives, it seems like only a matter of time before all products are made from organic resources.

In addition to the benefits to your self and your local area, the use of organic products is far less of a burden on the environment as well. Considering that every drop of chemicals that are utilized in the day-to-day life of human beings eventually makes its way into some type of water supply, it is a good idea to reduce your footprint and utilize the least harmful products that you can possibly find. With this effort, you can ensure that future generations do not have to deal with the chemicals that we leave behind, helping them to lead a happier and fuller life. Whatever other benefits you might obtain from using an organic body wash, the minimizing of the impact on the environment is certainly a compelling reason to look into the organic body washes that are available almost everywhere.

About the Author:
While essential oil is one of the critical elements that provide a sense of relaxation, using the purest ingredients can also beautify your body. Natural make up such as lip balm provides the necessary vitamins and minerals to be consumed, allowing users to achieve flawless skin.

by Amy Nutt

If you want for your skin to have a truly radiant glow, then one of the best things that you can do for yourself is to make sure that your skin care routine is completely and totally organic in nature. The skin is the largest organ of the body and it absorbs up to 60% of what you apply on it. As you apply chemicals on your face daily, the effects may not be immediately apparent; however it will cause your body to deteriorate. Organic products offer the effects of beautified skin without the negative impacts.

There are a multitude of unique benefits that come with the act of choosing organic skin care products, and this article is going to look at what organic skin care products can do for you in order to give your skin a truly radiant glow from head to toe.

If you want naturally radiant skin, then it should make sense for you to use skin care products that are natural and organic. Natural skin care products use naturally derived ingredients like essential oils, flowers, roots, herbs and other purely natural ingredients along with other natural elements in order to create a skin care product that is healthy and nourishing to promote radiant skin and a healthy body.

The classic definition for natural skin care relates to using ingredients that were sourced botanically without using synthetic or manufactured chemicals or ingredients. The skin is the largest organ in your body and so you should make the effort to keep it healthy, nourished and radiant by any means necessary.

There are a myriad of different organic skin care products on the market today, and reading the labels is one of the most important things that you can do because it is going to give you a good idea of what you are putting on your skin. Keep in mind that natural skin care and organic skin care are two different things - And understanding the difference between the two things is of vital importance if you want to get the very best out of your skin care regimen. No matter what skin care regimen you decide to choose, it is vitally important that you know what you are putting on your skin. Understand which ingredients are natural and which are not, and know what the potential effects are of each of the compounds, chemicals and other elements that you put on your skin before you try the product.

Choose products that are rich in products that you can name. Do you remember those ice cream ads where the only ingredients were the kinds of things you keep in your fridge? You should be choosing natural and organic skin care products citing ingredients like milk, honey, oatmeal, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, coconut, natural oils and so on. These are the nourishing ingredients that will allow your skin to be truly radiant from your head down to your toes. Skin care products should be rich in these natural elements and materials, essential oils, plants, flowers, fruits and other completely natural ingredients rather than chemicals that you cannot figure out how to pronounce.

About the Author:
As massage oil relieves the body from aching muscles, its organic ingredients help to beautify skin. While the body is rejuvenated, proper hair treatment must also be emphasized as well. As synthetic hair gel contains harmful chemicals, organic hair care is a lot more beneficial.