Essential Wellness Blog: Lavish Lavender

Essential Wellness Blog: Lavish Lavender: Lavender is a beautiful purple floral plant which is best planted in April & May. It needs full sun exposure and best planted in a large...

Lavish Lavender

Lavender is a beautiful purple floral plant which is best planted in April & May. It needs full sun exposure and best planted in a large pot as it grows and spreads fast.
Where it comes from… 

Lavender is know best for its French heritage however it is now grown in vast quantities in England and Russia. It is easily grown and there is a large presence of lavender growing wild in the French mountains.

Why we love Lavender…Mostly because of the relaxing peaceful properties lavender is known for, however it has a wealth of fantastic therapeutic properties. A man called Gattefosse first discovered lavender’s vast benefits. Gattefosse badly burned his arm and a large vessel of lavender essential oil was the closest fluid near him. He soon discovered the burn healed quickly and did not scar. Lavender is great for acne, eczema, flu, colds, insomnia, sprains, strains, headaches, depression, cuts, burns, stress, stretch marks, scars to name a few. 

What do you use lavender for?

History of Aromatherapy

In brief, aromatherapy is the use of volatile plant oils, including essential oils, for psychological and physical well-being. Although the term aromatherapy was not used until the 20th Century, the foundations of aromatherapy date back thousands of years. The use of essential oils in particular date back nearly one thousand years.

The Chinese may have been one of the first cultures to use aromatic plants for well-being. Their practices involved burning incense to help create harmony and balance.

Later, the Egyptians invented a rudimentary distillation machine that allowed for the crude extraction of cedarwood oil. It is also thought by some that Persia and India may have also invented crude distillation machines, but very little is known.

Oils of cedar wood, clove, cinnamon, nutmeg and myrrh were used by the Egyptians to embalm the dead. When a tomb was opened in the early 20th century, traces of the herbs were discovered with intact portions of the body. The scent, although faint, was still apparent. Although the cedarwood the Egyptians used was distilled by a crude distillation process, the other oils the Egyptians used were most likely infused oils.

The Egyptians also used infused oils and herbal preparations for spiritual, medicinal, fragrant and cosmetic use. It is thought that the Egyptians coined the term perfume, from the Latin per fumum which translates as through the smoke. Egyptian men of the time used fragrance as readily as the women. An interesting method that the men used to fragrance themselves was to place a solid cone of perfume on their heads. It would gradually melt and would cover them in fragrance.

The Greeks learned a great deal from the Egyptians, but Greek mythology apparently credits the gift and knowledge of perfumes to the gods. The Greeks also recognized the medicinal and aromatic benefits of plants. Hippocrates, commonly called the "father of medicine" practiced fumigations for both aromatic and medicinal benefit. A Greek perfumer by the name of Megallus created a perfume called megaleion. Megaleion included myrrh in a fatty-oil base and served several purposes: (1) for its aroma, (2) for its anti-inflammatory properties towards the skin and (3) to heal wounds.

The Roman Empire built upon the knowledge of the Egyptians and Greeks. Discorides wrote a book called De Materia Medica that described the properties of approximately 500 plants. It is also reported that Discorides studied distillation. Distillation during this period, however, focused on extracting aromatic floral waters and not essential oils.

A major event for the distillation of essential oils came with the invention of a coiled cooling pipe in the 11th century. Persian by birth, Avicenna invented a coiled pipe which allowed the plant vapor and steam to cool down more effectively than previous distillers that used a straight cooling pipe. Avicenna's contribution lead to more focus on essential oils and their benefits.

Within the 12th century, an Abbess of Germany named Hildegard grew and distilled lavender for its medicinal properties.

Within the 13th century, the pharmaceutical industry was born. This event encourages great distillation of essential oils.

During the 14th century, the Black Death hit and killed millions of people. Herbal preparations were used extensively to help fight this terrible killer. It is believed that some perfumers may have avoided the plague by their constant contact with the natural aromatics.

Within the 15th century, more plants were distilled to create essential oils including frankincense, juniper, rose, sage and rosemary. A growth in the amount of books on herbs and their properties also begins later in the century. Paracelcus, an alchemist, medical doctor and radical thinker is credited with coining the term Essence and his studies radically challenged the nature of alchemy and he focused upon using plants as medicines.

During the 16th century, one could begin purchasing oils at an "apothecary," and many more essential oils were introduced.

During the 16th and 17th centuries, perfume starting being considered an art form, and it was more clearly defined as its own field.

During the 19th century, perfumery remained a propserous industry. Women would have their jeweler create a special bottle to hold their treasured perfume. The 19th century also was important scientifically as major constituents of essential oils became isolated.

During the 20th century, the knowledge of separating the constituents of essential oils was used to create synthetic chemicals and drugs. It had been believed that by separating the major constituents and then using the constituents alone or in synthetic form would be beneficial therapeutically and economically. These discoveries helped lead to "modern medicine" and synthetic fragrances. This actually weakened the use of essential oils for medicinal and aromatic benefit.

During the earlier part of the 20th century, a French chemist by the name of René-Maurice Gattefossé became interested in the use of essential oils for their medicinal use. Previously, he focused on the aromatic use of essential oils, but his interest in their medicinal use grew after an accident heightened his curiosity. While working, he burned his arm rather badly. By reflex, he plunged his burned arm into the closest liquid which happened to be a large container of lavender essential oil. The burn he suffered healed quickly and left no scar. Gattefossé is credited with coining the term aromatherapy in 1928 within an article where he supports the use of using essential oils in their whole without breaking them down into their primary constituents. In 1937, Gattefossé wrote a book called Aromathérapie: Les Huiles essentielles hormones végétales that was later translated into English and named Gattefossé's Aromatherapy. It is still in print and widely read.

Other highly respected 20th century aromatherapists include Jean Valnet, Madam Marguerite Maury, and Robert B. Tisserand. Jean Valnet is most remembered for his work using essential oils to treat injured soldiers during the war and for his book, The Practice of Aromatherapy originally entitled Aromathérapie in French. Austrian Madam Marguerite Maury is remembered as a biochemist who avidly studied, practiced and taught the use of aromatherapy for primarily cosmetic benefit. Robert B. Tisserand is an English aromatherapist who is responsible for being one of the first individuals to bring knowledge and education of aromatherapy to English speaking nations. He has written books and articles including the highly respected 1977 publication The Art of Aromatherapy. The Art of Aromatherapy was the first aromatherapy book published in English.

From the late 20th century and on into the 21st century, there is a growing resurgence to utilize more natural products including essential oils for therapeutic, cosmetic and aromatic benefit. The use of essential oils never ceased, but the scientific revolution minimized the popularity and use of essential oils in one's everyday life. Today's heightened awareness regarding the use of synthetics coupled with the increased availability of aromatherapy information within books and the Internet has refueled the use of essential oils for therapeutic, cosmetic, fragrant and spiritual use.

Certified Pure Therapeutic Grade essential oils are now available in Nigeria.

Original article was posted here.

What are Essential Oils?

An assortment of essential oil bottles surrounded by freshly picked flowers and herbs

An essential oil is a liquid that is generally distilled (most frequently by steam or water) from the leaves, stems, flowers, bark, roots, or other elements of a plant. Essential oils, contrary to the use of the word "oil" are not really oily-feeling at all. Most essential oils are clear, but some oils such as patchouli, orange and lemongrass are amber or yellow in color.

Essential oils contain the true essence of the plant it was derived from. Essential oils are highly concentrated and a little goes a long way.

Essential oils are not the same as perfume or fragrance oils. Where essential oils are derived from the true plants, perfume oils are artificially created fragrances or contain artificial substances and do not offer the therapeutic benefits that essential oils offer.

The chemical composition and aroma of essential oils can provide valuable psychological and physical therapeutic benefits. These benefits are usually achieved through methods including inhalation and application of the diluted oil to the skin.

Essential oils are often used by diluting them with a carrier oil (sweet almond oil, apricot kernel oil, fractionated coconut oil, grapeseed oil) and then applying this blend to the skin for absorption.

Careful inhalation of the oils can also provide therapeutic benefit as the oil molecules enter the lungs and are absorbed into the bloodstream.

Essential Oils are usually sold for individual use in very small bottles.

Essential oils can vary greatly in quality and price. Factors that can affect the quality and price of the oil include the rarity of the botanical, the country of origin and growing/climate conditions, quality standards of the distiller, and how much oil is produced by the botanical.

Essential oils can often be purchased as blends of several essential oils. The advantage if it is a blend of pure essential oils is that you can save from having to buy every essential oil individually. The disadvantage is that you have no control over the blend by not mixing it yourself nor can you reliably mix the blend with other oils.

The original article was first posted here.

Aromatherapy and Weight Loss

I receive a lot of E-mails from persons asking if aromatherapy can aid with losing weight. Grapefruit essential oil, in particular, is often asked about.

Essential oils are not a miracle aid for weight loss. When used in conjunction with the tips described below, however, the proper use of essential oils may act as a valuable aid in your weight loss plan.

The first step in establishing a weight loss program should be to consult your medical doctor or practitioner. Work with your practitioner to establish a safe plan suitable to your particular medical needs. As a person who has struggled with weight issues for years, I have found significant value in defining the reasons why I developed poor eating habits. Your particular reasons will vary from those of others, but knowing the reasons and dealing with them will help you on your way to permanent weight loss. Going on crash diets isn't a long-term solution. Several reasons for excessive body fat are listed below:

• Physical/medical reasons
• Poor knowledge of nutrition
• Inactive lifestyle
• Eating as a form of comfort
• Eating as entertainment when bored
• Depression
• Grief
• Eating because everyone else is - afraid to say "no"

Essential Oils That Can Assist With Underlying Issues

The use of essential oils or aromatic blends will not miraculously shed pounds. They, however, can assist you with the struggles and "withdrawal" symptoms that you may feel as you begin and continue your weight loss program.

	To order pure essential oils in Nigeria and the rest of the world, please send us a message.

Energizing Essential Oils

The aroma of energizing essential oils may help provide energy during workouts and during times where you feel sluggish:

• Orange Essential Oil
• Lemon Essential Oil
• Lemongrass Essential Oil
• Grapefruit Essential Oil
• Rosemary Essential Oil
• Peppermint Essential Oil
• Spearmint Essential Oil

Keeping the Skin Moisturized and Nourished During Weight Loss 

If you have more than a few pounds to lose, it is especially important to keep your skin well moisturized. Strive to not lose weight at too rapid a pace. If you lose weight too rapidly, your skin has a greater tendency to sag. Keeping your skin well moisturized will help promote the elasticity of your skin.

So, there you have it. Essential oils can help your weight loss effort but you have to make the effort. The original post first appeared here. 

Harmful Skin Care Ingredients

Some people have asked me several times to list the ingredients they should avoid when shopping for Skincare products. Here is the list. Consider avoiding products that contain the following ingredients:

Fragrance Oils / Perfume Oils
Fragrance oils, sometimes referred to as perfume oils, usually contain synthetic substances. Over time, some individuals become sensitive to the aroma of fragrance oils and experience headaches. Others may develop skin sensitivities/excema to the fragrance oils contained in skin care products. Fragrance oils are typically listed as "fragrance" on ingredient labels.

Mineral Oil
Mineral oil, also known as baby oil, is a byproduct of petroleum production. Mineral oil is inexpensive and is a common ingredient in many skin care products including lotions and cosmetics. Even high end lotions and cosmetics can include mineral oil. Mineral oil, however, clogs pores and prevents the skin from breathing or eliminating toxins.

Paraffin Wax
Like mineral oil, paraffin wax is a byproduct of petrolium production and is not healthy for the skin. Paraffin wax is also the wax most commonly used in candle making. When burned, paraffin wax emits toxins that can be harmful when inhaled.

Dyes/Pigments
FD&C and D&C dyes are synthetic and are reported to be carcinogenic. They also may cause skin sensitivity. Look for products that promote they are colored with natural botanicals including but not limited to rose petal powder, red sandalwood powder or cosmetic grade clay.

Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
Sodium Lauryl Sulfate, abbreviated SLS, is used primarily in bubble baths, shampoos, liquid soaps and other products where good lather is saught. It is even found in toothpastes. At the time of this writing, it is even used in the Tom's of Maine line of natural toothpastes - with the exception of its newer non-SLS line). SLS, however, draws moisture from the skin and can cause drying and irritation. Those with psoriasis, eczema or other skin conditions should avoid or at least limit use of products with SLS.

Propylene Glycol
Propylene glycol is still used in skin care and cosmetic products. It, however, is known to cause sensitization.

Diethanolamine
Diethanolamine, abbreviated DEA, is used for its emollient and emusification properties. Studies have revealed that DEA is carcinogenic and should be avoided.

Isopropyl Alcohol
Isopropyl alcohol is drying and can cause sensitization. Although isoproyl alcohol can kill germs and is helpful medicinally, it should be used sparingly. For perfumery and room freshening applications, high proof vodka or perfumer's alcohol is considered acceptable to use as a very limited quantity of alcohol contacts the skin.

Flower/Floral Water
Not to be confused with hydrosols/distillate waters, floral/flower waters are waters that are scened with synthetic fragrance oils. Some manufacturers use the term hydrosol and floral water interchangeably, so be sure you're getting a natural hydrosol.

I do hope you become a smart shopper when it comes to Skincare ingredients.

Original article was posted here.

The Poem that got Nelson Mandela through 27 Years in Prison

Out of the night that covers me,

Black as the pit from pole to pole,

I thank whatever gods may be

For my unconquerable soul.

In the fell clutch of circumstance

I have not winced nor cried aloud.

Under the bludgeonings of chance

My head is bloody, but unbowed.

Beyond this place of wrath and tears

Looms but the Horror of the shade,

And yet the menace of the years

Finds and shall find me unafraid.

It matters not how strait the gate,

How charged with punishments the scroll,

I am the master of my fate:

I am the captain of my soul.

~ Invictus, by William Ernest Henley.

 

Rest in peace, Madiba for your legacy lives on.

xoxo

10 Reasons Why You Should Use Essential Oils

What Are Essential Oils?

Essential oils are liquid extracts distilled from plants such as flowers, trees, and aromatic herbs. They provide protection for the plants by repelling harmful insects. They are very concentrated and it often takes an entire plant (or more) to produce a single drop of oil.

Their pleasant aromas from the oils have been known to balance moods, lift spirits, get rid of negative emotions and even create a romantic atmosphere.

Essential oils are more than just a pleasant aroma. Historically, they have been used to kill viruses, fungi, and bacteria.

10 Reasons Why You Should Try Essential Oils:

1. Essential oils are anti-fungal, antiviral, anti-macrobial, anti-parasitic, anti-infectious and antiseptic. They can combat infectious disease by killing off viruses, bacteria or other pathogens. Some oils have been shown to destroy all tested viruses and bacteria.

2. Essential oils can act on both your mind and your body. Their aromas can be stimulating both psychologically and physically, as well as calming and sedating. Inhaling aromas is extremely powerful. Aromatic stimuli of your limbic system cause the release of neurotransmitters, including pain-reducing encephalin, pleasure-producing endorphins, relaxing serotonin, and stimulating noradrenaline.

3. Essential oils are some of the most powerful known antioxidants. (Determined by an ORAC developed by Tuft University).

4. Essential oils are capable of penetrating your cell membranes since they are lipid-soluble. According to Jean V. MD, essential oils can affect every cell of the body within 20 minutes, and are then metabolized like other nutrients. An anti-biotic cannot penetrate your cell’s wall.

5. Essential oils detoxify your cells and your blood.

6. Essential purify the air by eliminating odors from cooking, animals, mold, bacteria and other sources.

7. Essential oils are small enough to penetrate every tissue in your skin.

8. According to researchers at Vienna University, essential oils stimulate blood flow, which increases your nutrient and oxygen delivery.

9. Essential oils can be administered in two ways, either topically or through aromatherapy and therapeutic grade essential oils can be ingested in certain instances. When applied topically and inhaled, essential oils are  absorbed immediately into your blood stream. Oils used aromatically don’t have to go through your digestive system, so they work immediately in your body.

10. The essential oils’ versatility makes them fairly inexpensive to use. One bottle goes a long way and can be used for many different ailments. For example, lavender oil helps with relaxation, sleep, bug bites, eczema and burns.

So, I’ve given you ten reasons why essential oils are so vital to your life.

What are you using now to take care of all these things essential oils can do for you? Would you be willing to make a switch and try something new and see if it makes a difference in your life?

I’d love to hear from you—please leave a comment in the box below.

(If you have found this article useful, spread the love by sharing it with others. Post it to FB, Pin it to Pinterest or Tweet it.)