So-called ‘alternative’ treatments encompass virtually all medicine mankind has ever used, and our species by almost every measure is exceptionally successful. And there are many physicians who specialize in alternative medicine whom believe that natural treatments and lifestyle modifications are the ONLY way to truly cure the vast majority of illness. So how effective, really, are essential oils and the science of aromatherapy in treating stress and disease in humans? How can you learn more about the oils and their potential to help you? Let’s review the current state of affairs, and see how you might investigate their use in your own natural health and wellness lifestyle.

The term Aromatherapy was coined by a French scientist after accidentally discovering the remarkable healing effects of Lavender oil on burns sustained in the lab. He had thrust his burning hands into a vat of Lavender oil, finding the wounds to heal extremely quickly. Further investigation lead to his book ‘Aromatherapie’, and the modern medical use of essential oils began. Aromatherapy refers simply to the branch of medicine utilizing volatile aromatic compounds naturally distilled from plants. Essential oils can be as effective as any other natural remedy when employed with proper knowledge and skill. In fact, many pharmaceutical drugs are plant extracts manipulated to give the inventor patent protection on their formulation. But essential oils cannot be patented – ANYone with the right tools and know-how can produce them. At the same time, there is no major lobbying effort underway to educate the public about their medicinal properties – likely the reason America has not gone beyond ‘aroma’ to ‘therapy’ with essential oils.

A backlash may be coming; more people are getting fed up with the high cost of healthcare and the soaring cost of prescription drugs. They are willing to investigate natural, inexpensive alternatives, particularly when ‘proven’ effective in the same arena as are modern pharmaceuticals. An important example is the use of Peppermint essential oil in treating irritable bowel syndrome. A study of 50 children comparing the effects of a common chemical preparation and peppermint oil capsules on alleviating their symptoms showed the peppermint oil to be drastically more effective, with fewer side effects, than the pharmaceutical drug. The nature of the essential oil is that it will eliminate bacteria causing disease symptoms, while leaving much-needed natural intestinal flora unharmed. This is the beauty of aromatherapy, and properly utilized natural medicines in general.

Another widely published effect of a particular essential oil is that of the powerful anti-viral (and anti-depressant) Melissa oil. Melissa herb has long been used in natural medicine, often for it’s stress relieving effects and nervous system support. Now, many university studies in Europe have confirmed it’s effect on treating Herpes outbreaks, the result of a viral infection that has, until now, been considered incurable by the modern medical establishment. Outbreaks tend to occur when an individual is under particularly stressful conditions – and although the aroma of Melissa is thought to relieve stress, one of it’s chemical components has been shown in the laboratory to eradicate certain virus types. Topical application of Melissa oil to Herpes legions has reduced the pain, duration, and frequency of the outbreaks in a significant number of study participants. Some have even experienced complete remission of the disease! A definite seal of approval for efficacy of essential oils as natural health and wellness medicine.

On the ‘soft side’ of essential oil use, that of inhalation or massage-based ‘aroma’ therapy, it is important first to note that MANY health professionals consider stress to be the number one cause of all disease. The body, lead by the mind, becomes overburdened in a variety of ways which lead to breakdown of particular systems (immune, circulatory, etc). Time and time again, Lavender and other essential oils have been reported by patients, even in controlled studies, to reduce stress levels. As the understanding of the mind-body connection to health and well-being grows, the importance of stress reduction techniques in natural health programs is coming to the forefront. Inhalation of essential oils is but one possible technique, but a powerful one at that. Upon comparison to Valium – the most ubiquitous of anti-stress agents in the Western world, a headline in the Journal of Essential Oil Research proclaimed “Lavender beats benzodiazepines” for stress reduction. This is one commonly-used anti-stress oil; there are many, many others – some people don’t like Lavender, but the may like Neroli, Bergamot, Sweet Orange, or one of hundreds of other oils that may reduce stress and have ‘downstream’ effects of improved health and wellbeing.

Aromatherapy in a natural health, wellness and fitness regime is not a cure-all, miracle path to health, however. Like any other medicine or treatment, it has it’s place, and should be used when it provides the best combination of safety and efficacy. How do you find out if essential oils can help you, your friends or your loved ones? Educate yourself! There are several wonderful books available on medical and clinical aromatherapy. Some will deal mostly with the psychological aspects, others mainly in treatment of infectious illness, and others touch on every conceivable application. Buy them, get them from your library, borrow them from friends – but educate yourself as much as possible, and find a degreed practitioner if need be. But most of all, give Aromatherapy a chance. The particular class of plant compounds called ‘essential oils’, which just happen to smell nice, have as much validity as any other field of medicine, and deserves to be appreciated with the same respect. Whether they work for you is up to your own knowledge and dedication to the practice!

The author is a regular contributor to natural ezines on essential oils and aromatherapy. She may be contacted through http://www.anandaapothecary.com.

There are different types of oils produced by eucalyptus trees. Some of these oils are medicinal oils, many different industrial oils and oils that can be used in perfumes. The amazing thing is that all these oils are produced not from the bark of the tree but from the leaves. You will found eucalyptus tree oil in almost all first aid kits. This is because of its great medicinal properties.

The different types of oils that can be produced from eucalyptus trees are medicinal oils, many different industrial oils and oils that can be used in perfumes. Believe me, in this tree the bark is of no use but the leaves of the tree from which oil is produced. People keep the eucalyptus tree oil at their homes as a first aid for any disease.

The most important and the most commonly used properties of the tree in the family of eucalyptus tree is Eucalyptus radiate. It is highest in 1, 8 cineole. It has all the properties of removing infections and is a big antibacterial, antiviral, and is also great oil for getting relief from sinus. It also helps in improving the respiratory conditions. It is gentle for skin and has a very low quantities of aldehydes hence is very much effective.

Another tree used is eucalyptus globules. It is also known for its medicinal properties. The other name for this tree is blue gum tree. It is known for healing the infections of the respiratory tract and is best for the treatment of rheumatism, arthritis and wounds. It purifies the air around it and also helps in the production of ozone and thickens the ozone layer. Just have a look at the chemical component of this tree. You will find that it is high in oxides and in 1, 8 cineole.

Another useful tree in the family of eucalyptus is Eucalyptus Citriodora. It is recognized by its lemony fragrance and gives a cooling effect in the body and on the skin. The key constituent of this tree is citonellal which is an aldehyde. It helps in reducing heat in the body and makes it cool. It is used as an insect repellent like cockroaches, silverfish and many other different insects that reside in your home. You can use its oil for message and is very good for children because of its cool lemon fragrance.

Next in the list is Eucalyptus Dives. It is recognized by its fragrance which matches that of methanol. It is also known as peppermint eucalyptus. It is best in healing infections of sinus, ear, kidney and vaginitis. Its main ingredient is piperitone. It is very good for healing different infections.

Last but not the least in the list is Eucalyptus polybractea. You can also call it as Blue Mallee. It is a good antimicrobial and acts gently on the skin as compared to other oils. It is richest source of 1, 8 cineole.

You may want to apply home remedies like Eucalyptus radiata essential oilthat are medicinal in nature and helps you keep on the go. In this fast-paced world, you need something to relieve you from feelings of stress and fatigue. Or you may want to try aromatherapy gifts.

Chakras control the flow of energy into and out of our bodies. This continuous flow of energy within us and between us and our environment is dependent on your chakras staying in a harmonious balance with each other for proper mental and physical health to exist.

Our seven primary chakras each correspond to a particular part of our endocrine system. Everything we experience is intimately related to our chakras.

Stress of all types: whether physical, emotional or mental can cause our chakras to be out of balance with each other. This causes a loss of energy or even physical illness! This is a very clear sign that something is wrong with our chakras.

For our body to reap the benefits of a well-tuned chakric system, they need to be functioning in harmony with one another. Chakra balance is essential to maintain its beneficial function to the human body and to achieve this, regular chakra balancing is necessary much like a car’s preventive maintenance procedures.

Importance of Chakra Balancing: Many methodologies exist in balancing our chakras and others are continually being explored and developed as the attainment of a perfectly balanced chakra system is the ultimate goal of people who want to enjoy a more fruitful, productive and healthy lifestyle.

This all begins with an understanding that each chakra resonates to a different frequency; these frequencies are naturally occurring and help the chakras to perform their important function of transmitting and receiving energy; also known as prana or chi.

During periods of illnesses, our chakras are still functioning but may be out of synch which can hamper the free flow of energy to further aggravate our physical and/or mental and emotional illness. Other contributory factors to the malfunction of our chakra system are undue stress or the inability to cope, suppressed emotions, unhealthy food intake, and lack of exercise.

Though they may be out of synch and not function at their best from time to time, their balance can be restored.

Tools of Chakra Balancing: The most commonly used ways of restoring chakra balance are light, sound, crystals and gems, aromatherapy and color.

Colors: Commonly used colors and their corresponding chakras are red (root chakra), orange (sacral chakra), yellow (solar plexus chakra), green and turquoise (heart chakra), blue (throat chakra), violet (crown chakra) and white for all chakras.

Crystals and Gems: Gems, crystals and stones have been used in chakra balancing for thousands of years. Each chakra corresponds to a different color, as we now know; so the laying of gems or crystals of the appropriate color on the location of a chakra can help to restore balance. This can help the body properly heal.

The light reflected by these stones can also help by getting this light into the body (and your chakras).

Light: Light therapy uses light on the eyes, the meridian points used in acupuncture and the areas where the body has the strongest reflexes in order to deliver the proper frequencies to restore chakra balance. Light is made up of both visible and invisible frequencies, including those which are beneficial to the chakras. The spectrum of light is very broad, so this is an effective means of chakra balancing.

Aromatherapy: Aromatherapy uses essential oils, scented massage oils and scented bath soaps to assist in the restoration of chakra balance and to help the physical body heal. Aromatherapy can also relieve depression and stress, provide relaxation and aid in meditation.

Sound: The use of tuning forks, soft music, quartz crystal, Tibetan bowls, and other objects to generate an agreeable resonance is also utilized to achieve a healthier well-being. Sound has natural vibration and resonance therapeutic effect because it affects us emotionally. Beautiful and melodious sounds can induce serenity and calm whereas chaotic sounds produce dissension and discord. Sound can be used to achieve a quiet and peaceful atmosphere in order to better faster healing and achieve higher levels of consciousness.

Until very recently, chakra balancing was a difficult process which could take a great deal of time. However, technological advances in the audio field have brought us binaural frequencies, subliminal sound and self-hypnosis recordings; all of which have made chakra balancing much easier to achieve.

Originating in tropical Asia, the Bergamot tree is now widely grown in Italy; it is named after the Italian city of Bergamo, where the essential oil was first sold for perfumery. The extremely tart fruit is not edible, thus Bergamot tree being primarily cultivated for its essential oils. It is one of the most popular essential oils used in perfumery – approximately one third of men’s colognes contain Bergamot, and nearly one half of women’s perfumes. Bergamot is the magic ingredient in Earl Grey tea, adding natural citrus notes to the black tea’s flavor.

Fresh Bergamot essential oil has nearly three hundred compounds: mainly linalyl acetate, and linaool (these are sweet smelling, relaxing molecules also found in Lavender), sequiterpenes, terpenes, alkalines, and furocoumarins. Certain furocourmarins, notably bergapten, have been found to be photosensitizing (causing an increased sensitivity to ultraviolet rays), hence Bergamot should not be heavily used on skin that will be significantly exposed to sunlight in the following seventy-two hours. A ‘bergapten-free’ variety is available, and is an excellent choice for massage and skin care formulas.

Bergamot is an excellent antiseptic for use in cases of acne, oily skin, and infected skin. As a natural toner and detoxifier, Bergamot may help to prevent premature aging of the dermis. Bergamot oil is noted to have a slightly irritating effect on the skin in high concentrations, but the opposite healing effects occur when the oil is used at low concentrations (1% or less in carrier oil). Bergamot’s general deodorizing effects derive from its antiseptic properties, which are also effective against bladder and urinary infections. Adding 3- 4 drops of Bergamot to warm water bath can help bring relief to the early stages of urinary tract infections.

Bergamot essential oil is foremost a miraculous neuro-tonic, and a powerful helper against depression caused by fatigue or unreleased tensions and frustrations. Aromatic massage with the oil is naturally indicated for those with poor circulation, heart palpitations, hypertension, and general stress related dis-ease. Depression due to the stagnation of life-force energy is often the result of accumulated stress and repressed emotions of grief, frustration or anger. A protective oil by nature, Bergamot is indicated whenever the flow of natural energy is disrupted, leading to imbalanced states such as irritability, anxiety, and sleep disturbances. Bergamot encourages the release of repressed and inhibited feelings, thus helping to release and decompress. The sparkling and yet gentle floral scent gives the oil a sedative yet uplifting quality with the primary effects being calming, balancing centering and clarifying.

Bergamot is further indicated where anxiety and stress related symptoms present as a loss or change in appetite. Bergamot’s antidepressant properties and its regulatory effect on appetite offer assistance when used in cases of eating imbalances such as anorexia, emotional eating, and bulimia. A natural carminative, digestive aid and antispasmodic make Bergamot effective in instances of colic as well as helping to reduce gas in the intestines. Bergamot may be used by itself, or in a recipe with other digestive supporting oils like Roman Chamomile, Coriander Seed and Sweet Fennel; an excellent technique is to gently massage a low-dilution formula into the abdomen.

That Bergamot essential oil has found its way into our lives in forms that we inhale, splash on ourselves, and even eat is no mistake. Its most most important and enticing application may be that of the natural mood-enhancer; the yellow-green color of the oil hints to its affinity to the heart and solar plexus, where many of us are challenged to remain open. It is the opening of the heart and a fluid allowing of the emotions that lies at the center of our healing journeys. Using Bergamot through all primary aromatherapy techniques can assist in this process, opening us to freedom and joys in our everyday lives.

Here are a few formulas employing the dramatic antidepressant and emotional-releasing properties using some of these companion oils: To release aggravation and pressure – 2 parts Roman Chamomile, 2 parts Bergamot and 2 parts Sweet Orange. To overcome nervousness and agitation – 3 parts Lavender, 2 parts Neroli and 1 part Bergamot. When frustrated and negative – 3 parts Bergamot, 2 parts Sweet Orange and 1 part Neroli. To enhance relaxation and self-confidence – 2 parts Lavender and 1 part Bergamot. These blends may be used in a diffuser, or diluted to 3% total concentration in one or more carrier oils for a wonderful aromatherapy massage. “Look in the perfume of flowers and of nature for peace of mind and joy in life” says Wang Wei, summing up Bergamot’s wonderful, multifaceted effects.

In recent years, more and more clinical and laboratory research is uncovering the efficacy of essential oils used for their anti-anxiety effects. Thankfully, the application of the oils in these studies is relatively simple: both the inhalation of aroma and the topical application have demonstrable therapeutic activity. These methods are easily replicated by the professional and aromatherapy enthusiast alike. The oils can be diffused an any diffuser (as the concentrations from high end nebulizers are not required for this practice), used in aromatherapy massage, or simply worn as natural perfume. Several readily available essential oils have statistically significant data to support their use in stress reduction – here’s a look at some of the most often studied ones…

Lavender has been the most frequently studied of all the essential oils. Its anti-anxiety (or simply ‘relaxing’) action has been documented both in the laboratory (using stressed-out mice and rats) and in clinical environments with actual human beings. Many, many studies have reported the same thing: inhalation of lavender oil brings calm under a great variety of conditions. At least one study compared Lavender oil aroma to that of Juniper, Cypress, Geranium, Jasmine and Frankincense. It was only the Frankincense that had a somewhat similar effect, but not nearly as effective as Lavender. Several studies compared Lavender’s effect to diazepam (Valium) with Lavender’s aroma having similar (but likely more healthy) calming results. In other studies, Lavender has been shown to improve sleep, decrease conflict between animals, and reduce the amount of pain medication needed by recovering hospital patients.

Sandalwood oil is another well-known stress reducer. For those that may not enjoy the floral aroma of Lavender, Sandalwood could be the oil of choice. Its warm, earthy scent is grounding and centering, being used by some spiritual traditions to enhance relaxed, focused meditative states. The science shows similar results – Sandalwood oil topically applied relaxed the body while stimulating psyche. Studies on sleep/wake cycles using Sandalwood oil topically improved the quality of sleep and lessened waking episodes. A small study using Sandalwood suggested the oil may be helpful in reducing anxiety for palliative care patients. Beyond the scope of Western scientific inquiry, Sandalwood oils and pastes have been used for centuries in Ayurvedic medicine for the treatment of psychological disorders, utilizing its sublime mental-health promoting actions.

While Sandalwood and Lavender have the most data to back them up, many other essential oils have had positive test results. Rose is a standout; it has also been tested alongside Valium (apparently the anti-anxiety gold standard) with better and longer-lasting results. The rose aroma’s effect seem to increase over time, where as benzodiazepines’ effect will tend to decrease – and the test subjects appeared less confused or sedated. Rose, like Lavender, reduced conflict between test subjects as well. For a little variety, you can mix Rose and Sandalwood together (try a 1:4 ratio)…this is a classic Indian aromatic blend combining two of the world’s best known anti-anxiety scents.

Other oils found in research databases include Angelica, Chamomile, Lemon, Lemongrass, Tagetes and Ylang Ylang. Some oils tested didn’t show repeatable results in the laboratory environment, but if you find and oil aroma that you find relaxing, it’s more than likely not purely ‘in your head’; the olfactory (smell) sense is the one of the five senses most directly wired to the brain’s emotional centers. These are, in turn, directly wired to the autonomic nervous system controlling functions such as heart rate, breathing rate, and blood pressure – all of which are closely tied to one’s level of stress.

So what to do with these stress relieving wonders? They’re really easy to use – one of the great features of aromatherapy. Both topical application and inhalation show repeatable results in laboratory tests. A common method of topical application is to dilute the essential oil in a carrier oil like Jojoba down to 10% or less. Essential oils tend to pass easily into the bloodstream when applied to the skin, so nearly any technique will do. A few drops of your mixture can be placed on the wrists and rubbed together (this is nice, as you’ll smell the aroma as well). For inhalation, there’s a great many aromatherapy diffusers available, from little, inexpensive plug in units, to professional models which make a cloud of pure, intense aroma. For anxiety relief, any model where you can smell the aroma will do the job – the higher end diffusers tend to bathe a larger area in your aroma of choice.

How to chose an oil for you, your family or friends? Aromatherapy choices tends to be some personal. Some folks go mad for Rose Geranium, and other folks can only think of ‘grandma’ (in a nice way!) with the bright scents of florals. These same individuals will often love the grounding aromas of the woods: Sandalwood, Frankincense, Spruce, etc. The beauty of the scientific data is that it’s not one type of essential oil that’s effective to support health and wellness naturally – it’s the santalol in Sandalwood, the linalool in Lavender, and the citronellol in Rose that imparts much of the therapeutic effect. Other oils have different chemical constituents that also bring about relaxation. Even the most scientifically aligned practitioners will tell you: if it feels good, use it. Try a variety of aromas if you’re new, and use your favorite with confidence – relaxed confidence, of course – knowing you’re using some of the best medicine nature has to offer, with the science to back it up.

For athletes, essential oils can enhance circulation, open breathing passages, reduce inflammation, and encourage healing of chronic and acute injuries seen in sport. Here we’ll have a look at several popular sports massage blends, as well as other healing recipes for the healthy athlete.

Essential oils can promote the health and fitness of athletes in many ways, the most common being the pre- and post- exercise (or competition) massage. Long used by top athletes around the world, sports massage with essential oils plays an important part in warming up the muscles before exertion and removing lactic acid (thereby speeding recovery) after a hard effort. Massage formulas often these essential oils – Eucalyptus, for invigoration, circulation and opening airways; Lavender, with anti-inflammatory effects, relieves pain, relaxes spasms, and brings mental calm without sedation; Rosemary relieves pain, stimulates the mind and body, and has a warming effect on the muscles; Juniper Berry, used in the post-exercise formula, detoxifies and helps eliminate lactic acid from muscles; and Sweet Marjoram which helps relieve cramping in over-exerted muscles.

Example massage blends for pre- and post-exercise: For before exercise and competition, give a gentle rub to the entire body (or just the critical appendages, if so desired) with a blend containing eight drops of Rosemary, four drops Lavender and four drops of Eucalyptus oil in each ounce of ‘base’ oil (Sweet Almond oil is the most common of all oils used in massage). The massage should be vigorous enough to get the blood flowing but not so deep as to provoke pain in any way – generally, quick, light strokes are used. For the post-exercise rub, try a blend including eight drops of Lavender, four drops of Juniper Berry and four drops of Marjoram per ounce of base oil. Stronger, longer strokes are used, moving toward the heart or center of the body. The post-exercise rub can certainly be deeper, but care should be taken not to cause further inflammation in very sore or tight areas – work on these more deeply when the body has had a day or two to recover. Also, you can adjust the concentration of oils to suit your particular tastes and body’s response; in general, higher concentrations of essential oils will be stimulating, and lower ones will be relaxing.

Aromatherapy oils can be used during pre and post exercise baths and showers as well, using the same oils and blends mentioned above. Be sure to add any oils to the bathwater after the bath is drawn so they do not evaporate before you get in. Before showers, essential oils can be applied undiluted to the body; this is particularly advised post-exertion to support the elimination of metabolic wastes. One drop each of Rosemary, Lemon, Eucalyptus and Peppermint essential oils can be ideal for this purpose. After a shower or bath is an excellent time to apply a massage blend to the entire body – the pores are open and the skin is clean, enhancing absorption. Choose a stimulating or relaxing blend depending on your condition.

Essential oils’ medicinal value goes beyond just warm up and cool down rubs. In many sports, stronger healing properties are often needed due to cuts and scrapes, bruises, twists and sprains. Essential oils can powerful healers of skin, muscle and connective tissue. Many oils are known to have strong anti-inflammatory action, and contain certain molecules which signal the regeneration of tissue. And, of course, there’s the stress-relieving ‘aromatherapy’ aspect, which further enhances the healing process.

To treat bruises and strains, there is no match for the synergistic molecules making up Helichrysum essential oil. Helichrysum (also known as Everlasting oil), is touted by Kurt Schnaubelt, Ph.D.: “Used for bruises, sprains, and twisted ankles – usually accompanied by swelling and subsequent hemorrhages – this oil proves to be practically a wonder cure.” Keeping a small bottle on hand is wise, as with most treatments involving swelling, quick application provides the best results. In cases of bruises, twists strains or strains, apply a thin film of the oil directly to the affected area immediately, then apply frequently as a ten percent dilution in any carrier oil until healed (the oil will help with serious injuries, but is not a substitute for proper medical attention if needed). A blend of Helichrysum and Jojoba can also be used for chronic injuries such as tendonitis – simply massage a small amount into the affected area a few times a day.

Active athletes and fitness buffs will often incur minor cuts and abrasions. Essential oils are an excellent choice for caring for such wounds due to their antiseptic and soothing effects. A 50/50 blend of Tea Tree and Lavender is a wonderful, all-around skin healer. The Tea Tree prevents infection while the Lavender sooths the area. Apply directly to cuts and scrapes after the wound has been properly cleansed. If this is too strong a blend for the younger ones, simply apply a drop or two to the gauze portion of a band-aid and cover the wound for the same effect. The ratio of Lavender to Tea Tree can also be increased for an even more soothing result.

Beyond the obvious direct applications, the overall health and fitness of any athlete can be supported using essential oils. Athletes can be particularly susceptible to illness during hard periods of training and competition. Diffusing Eucalyptus, Thyme, Tea Tree and/or Lemon in the air can reduce the chance of illness. Niaouli is an excellent oil for supporting the immune system in general, and should be applied neat to the chest and neck after showers for best absorption and effect (use 10-20 drops). A strong immune system will always go a long way to keeping an athlete happy!

These are just a few suggestions for incorporating essential oils into the life of the athlete to improve their health, fitness, and performance. There are many variations of the essential oils suggested – if one oil is found offensive, too stimulating, etc., try another, as this is usually the body’s natural way saying the timing of a particular oil is not right, or the oil is not compatible with the individual’s chemistry at the moment. Experimenting with essential oils can be extremely rewarding, and finding the right combination for support of sports performance can add a whole new dimension to one’s athletic endeavors.